In Wheel Time Podcast

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Flathead Fever: The 317-Inch Wonder Jun 20, 2025

Show notes

Scott Ingram's orange 1932 Ford coupe gleams in the Texas sun, but this isn't some pampered show car – it's traveled 350,000 miles over 57 years and counting. As one of the seven original founders of the Lone Star Street Rod Association, 78-year-old Scott embodies the true spirit of hot rodding: build it, drive it, enjoy it.
"I've been coast to coast, border to border," Scott explains with evident pride, recalling adventures from deer hunting trips to cross-country journeys. When asked if he'd ever part with his beloved '32, his answer comes without hesitation: "I'll give it away before I sell it. It's not for sale." This isn't just transportation – it's family.
Beyond his street rod, Scott's technical expertise shines when discussing his nitro-fueled front-engine dragster powered by a heavily modified flathead Ford. The numbers are staggering: 317 cubic inches producing 554 horsepower. "It's good for one thing – going down the quarter mile," he chuckles, before diving into fascinating details about hand-seated valves, custom gaskets, and the challenges of running nitromethane. For Scott, maintaining these machines isn't work – it's passion made tangible.
What makes this conversation truly special is how it captures the essence of car culture: the vehicles bring people together initially, but the relationships endure far beyond metal and rubber. "I've got people here I've talked to yesterday and today that I've known for 50 years," Scott reflects, reminding us that while cars evolve, the community they create becomes the real treasure.
Whether you're a dedicated gearhead or simply appreciate stories of lifelong passion, Scott's journey offers inspiration and entertainment in equal measure. Listen now to experience automotive enthusiasm in its purest form, then join us every Saturday at 10AM Central for more stories from the road on the award-winning In Wheel Time Car Talk Show.

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Hot Rods and Heartland: How Granbury Became the Celebration Capital of Texas Jun 19, 2025

Show notes

Tucked away just over an hour from Dallas-Fort Worth lies Granbury, Texas – a lakeside town that's become something of a well-kept secret among travelers seeking authentic Texas charm without the crowds. Our broadcast from the Lone Star Street Rod Association's 50th anniversary state run reveals why this hidden gem has earned the official designation as the "Celebration Capital of Texas."
Kristen Gibson from the Granbury Convention and Visitors Bureau joins us to share what makes this town special, from its historic downtown square and restored Nuthouse Hotel to the free weekend trolley service that connects major attractions. With over 40 events annually, Granbury has mastered the art of celebration while maintaining its small-town hospitality. Car enthusiasts particularly appreciate how the entire town embraces automotive events, with hotels and restaurants fully prepared for their arrival.
Beyond cars, Granbury offers unexpected delights like an intimate 200-seat concert venue housed in a former car dealership, acclaimed restaurants requiring reservations months in advance, and the serene beauty of Lake Granbury. What began as a weekend destination for many has evolved into a permanent home as people discover the town's perfect balance of amenities and charm.
The show shifts gears as Don Armstrong shares his experience driving the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV, highlighting its comfortable ride, 319-mile range, and surprisingly affordable starting price of $33,600 – significantly lower than competitors like Tesla and Hyundai. This accessible entry point into EV ownership could be a game-changer for those considering the electric transition.
Whether you're a hot rod enthusiast, a weekend traveler, or someone looking for an affordable EV option, this episode packs insights that might change your perspective on both small-town Texas and the evolving world of electric vehicles. Listen now and discover why some of the best automotive experiences happen beyond the beaten path.

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Car Talk: LSSRA Vintage Car Enthusiasts Share Their Stories Jun 18, 2025

Show notes

When classic car lovers gather, stories flow as freely as chrome gleams in the Texas sun. From the Lone Star Street Rod Association's 50th Anniversary celebration in Granbury, we discover the human connections behind these metal masterpieces.
Meet Danon Hollinger, who grew up with hot rod magazine fold-outs on her bedroom headboard instead of pop stars. Her gorgeous white 1978 Pontiac Trans Am represents a lifelong dream fulfilled. After years of waiting, she found this beauty through a car club connection – a vehicle with its own poignant history, having been restored for a son who suffered an accident and could no longer drive it. Danon and her husband transformed it with a Tremec five-speed transmission to keep pace with their Houston-area car club on cruises across the country.
Then there's Larry Davidson's showstopping 1960 Ford Ranch Wagon – a chrome-laden masterpiece in striking blue. Originally purchased on eBay while searching for something completely different, Larry explains how station wagons have transformed from demolition derby fodder to highly sought-after collectibles. His ingenious restoration touches include chromed freeze plugs repurposed as decorative "gun sights" on the fenders, demonstrating the creativity that defines true car enthusiasts.
Beyond the vehicles themselves, we explore what makes Granbury worth the drive – from the historic Acton State Historical Site where Davy Crockett's wife Elizabeth is buried to the nostalgic Brazos Drive-In Theater operating since 1952. We round out with automotive headlines including the return of the Hemi V8 to Ram's pickup lineup.
Whether you're a dedicated gearhead or simply appreciate the stories behind beautiful machines, these conversations capture the passion, ingenuity, and community that make car culture so enduring. Join us for more automotive adventures every Saturday morning on Facebook, YouTube, and InWheelTime.com.

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Salt Flats Speed: One Man's Bonneville Journey Jun 17, 2025

Show notes

Hot rods, salt flats, and the sweet sound of engines revving—welcome to a special episode of the In Wheel Time Car Talk Show, broadcast live from the 50th anniversary of the Lone Star Street Rod Association State Run in Granbury, Texas.
The centerpiece of our show features Don Grouleff and his remarkable Model A hot rod, emblazoned with the racing number 731. Don's story captivates as he recounts pushing this classic Ford to a breathtaking 196 mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats. With a twinkle in his eye, Don shares how he once spun backward through the timing lights at nearly 190 mph—and still set a speed record. His vintage hot rod, featuring kingpin suspension and an old-school Muncie M-22 four-speed transmission, represents the perfect marriage of traditional aesthetics and high-performance engineering.
Don's journey from crop duster pilot to speed enthusiast offers a fascinating glimpse into the mindset required for both professions. After 35 years flying dangerously close to power lines and terrain, he found similar thrills and focus requirements on the salt flats of Bonneville. Now settled in Texas after leaving his California almond farm behind, Don continues to cherish this Model A that holds multiple speed records, including one that still stands at Muroc Dry Lake on Edwards Air Force Base.
We also pay tribute to Beach Boys founder Brian Wilson, who recently passed away at 82. Wilson's automotive-themed classics like "409," "Little Deuce Coupe," and "Fun, Fun, Fun" helped define American car culture and provided the soundtrack to generations of hot rodders. Between interviews, we discuss concerning automotive industry news, including potential tariff increases and predictions of significant financial challenges ahead for global automakers.
Whether you're a hot rod enthusiast, speed demon, or automotive history buff, this episode delivers the authentic stories and technical insights that make American car culture so enduring. Subscribe, share, and join our community of fellow car enthusiasts every Saturday from 10am to noon central time!

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Hot Rod Heaven: The 50th Lone Star Street Rod Association Jun 16, 2025

Show notes

The rumble of engines, gleaming chrome, and stories spanning generations fill the air as we broadcast live from the Lone Star Street Rod Association's 50th Anniversary State Run in Granbury, Texas. Father's Day weekend provides the perfect backdrop for this celebration of automotive passion that bridges past and present.
Our first guest, Steven Rogers, exemplifies this connection with his beloved 1966 Chevrolet truck. For 31 years, this vehicle has been his constant companion – from high school daily driver to weekend cruiser. "It was in good shape when we got it. We've done things to it along the way," he shares, detailing upgrades from the original 283 engine to a 350 small block and the addition of an overdrive transmission to better handle modern highway speeds. What makes Rogers' story particularly poignant is how he's successfully passed his passion to his teenage children, who now eagerly anticipate this annual gathering.
Between guests, we explore the fascinating history of hot rod culture, which emerged primarily from post-WWII California as enthusiasts modified pre-war cars for increased performance. From traditional T-buckets and Deuce coupes to modern interpretations with advanced technology, the hot rod community continues to thrive by balancing innovation with reverence for automotive history.
Our conversation shifts to the current automotive landscape, including concerning recalls affecting major manufacturers and how buying priorities have evolved across generations. While older enthusiasts often selected vehicles based on engine options and modification potential, today's market reflects different values – raising questions about the future of automotive individuality in an era moving toward standardization.
Throughout the park, fathers introduce children to the joy of motorsports and mechanical tinkering, ensuring these traditions continue despite industry changes. The event isn't just a display of remarkable vehicles; it's a community sharing stories, techniques, and the universal pleasure of automotive creativity.
Join our community of car enthusiasts by subscribing to the podcast and following us on social media. Share your own hot rod stories or automotive adventures with us – we'd love to hear what drives your passion!

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Muscle Car Dreams: Gary Peterson Reveals Shelby's Modern Magic Jun 13, 2025

Show notes

Step into the high-octane world of automotive excellence as we go behind the scenes with Gary Peterson, President of Shelby American. From the company's iconic Las Vegas facility, Peterson reveals the meticulous process of transforming standard Ford Mustangs into 810-horsepower Shelby GT350s that carry the legacy of Carroll Shelby's performance philosophy.
"We take a fairly regular or ordinary car and make it spectacular," Peterson explains, detailing how each $110,000 Shelby GT350 receives a custom aluminum hood with functional vents, a 3-liter Whipple supercharger, and unique interior touches that set it apart from standard Mustangs. Every vehicle carries a registered Shelby serial number to protect authenticity and investment value – a testament to the company's commitment to excellence since 1962.
What makes these vehicles truly remarkable isn't just their breathtaking performance, but their everyday practicality. Despite supercar-level horsepower, each comes with a three-year warranty and can be financed through traditional channels. Peterson guides potential buyers through the purchasing process, recommending Shelby.com as the starting point to configure their dream machine before connecting with one of 200 authorized dealers.
Shifting gears dramatically, we explore the surprisingly impressive 2025 Buick Invista – a vehicle that defies the current market's $50,000 average price trend with a starting MSRP of just $22,900. Despite its modest 1.2-liter turbocharged engine, this Korean-built compact delivers outstanding fuel economy, upscale interior materials, and surprisingly generous passenger space. For anyone seeking affordable style and practicality, this sleek, modern offering deserves serious consideration.
Ready to experience automotive passion at either end of the spectrum? Whether your dream ride carries a Shelby badge or fits neatly into a modest budget, this episode showcases the incredible diversity and innovation in today's automotive landscape. Subscribe now for more expert insights and behind-the-scenes access to the most exciting vehicles on the market!

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Corvette Chronicles: Inside the Fifth Edition Jun 12, 2025

Show notes

Mike Mueller's passion for America's sports car radiates throughout our conversation about his newly released fifth edition of "The Complete Book of Corvette." Weighing in at a hefty 15 pounds and spanning 352 pages of stunning photography and detailed history, this comprehensive volume tracks the complete evolution of Corvette from its earliest days through the latest C8 models.
What makes this book truly special isn't just the technical specifications or beautiful imagery—it's the human stories woven throughout. Mueller shares personal anecdotes about meeting Corvette legends, including his memorable encounter with Zora Arkus-Duntov at the 1994 grand opening of the Corvette Museum. "These aren't just cars," Mueller reminds us. "These are cars designed and built by men and women... and Corvette is a prime example."
The interview offers fascinating glimpses into automotive publishing, from Mueller's journalism beginnings at the University of Illinois to his current status as author of approximately fifty automotive books. He explains how his process has evolved over three decades—from physically visiting GM archives to select photos to now having digital access to their extensive image database, sometimes supplemented by collaborations with other automotive journalists for those hard-to-find technical shots.
Beyond Corvette talk, our show ventures into car culture with Jeff's exploration of racing superstitions—from Talladega's haunted reputation to drivers' rituals involving lucky helmets and pre-race bologna sandwiches. For those seeking driving adventures, Mars introduces the "Twisted Sisters," a thrilling 100-mile Hill Country loop featuring 65 curves in just a 15-mile stretch, along with family-friendly destinations like Garner State Park and the Cave With No Name.
Whether you're shopping for Father's Day or simply appreciate automotive excellence, this episode celebrates the passion, craftsmanship, and human stories behind America's most iconic sports car. Join us for our next live broadcast from Granbury, Texas on June 14th, where we'll continue exploring the fascinating world of automotive culture.

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Twisted Sisters, Lucky Helmets, and the Buick Envista! Jun 11, 2025

Show notes

Ready for a driving adventure that combines family fun with hair-raising curves? Buckle up as we journey through Texas Hill Country to discover the legendary "Twisted Sisters" – a 100-mile loop featuring a breathtaking 15-mile stretch packed with 65 challenging curves. This driving paradise begins in Medina and winds through Leakey, offering spectacular vistas and thrilling hairpin turns that have made it a favorite among driving enthusiasts and motorcyclists alike.
The surrounding Hill Country isn't just for gearheads though. We explore family-friendly destinations including Garner State Park's 1,700 acres with 2.9 miles of the Frio River for floating and fishing, plus 16 miles of hiking trails. Nearby Hill Country State Natural Area offers 40 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Don't miss the mysteriously named "Cave with No Name" near Boerne – a limestone cavern deemed too beautiful to name when opened to the public in 1939.
We also dive into the fascinating world of racing superstitions, from Talladega's haunted reputation to the universal avoidance of green cars and the number 13 in motorsports. These beliefs run surprisingly deep in such a technical sport!

Our automotive segment features the 2025 Buick Envista, a Korean-built compact SUV offering remarkable value at just $22,900 – less than half the current average vehicle price. With sleek design, comfortable interior, and 30+ mpg efficiency, it's perfect for young families seeking affordable, stylish transportation. Whether you're planning a Hill Country adventure or shopping for a budget-friendly SUV, this episode delivers insights you won't want to miss. Share your favorite driving roads or racing superstitions with us online!

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AdventureGenie: What if AI could plan your entire RVacation in seconds? Jun 10, 2025

Show notes

Imagine transforming what used to take hours or even days of travel research into mere seconds. That's exactly what Scott Lengel and his team at AdventureGenie are doing with their revolutionary AI-powered trip planning tool designed specifically for RV travelers and road trip enthusiasts.
Scott joins the In Wheel Time podcast to unveil how AdventureGenie creates personalized travel experiences that feel tailor-made. "Take a six-week trip from South Carolina to the national parks of Utah," Scott explains, and within seconds, the platform generates a complete itinerary with optimized routes, ideal campground stays matched to your specific rig requirements, and activities aligned with your interests—whether that's hiking, biking, sampling local barbecue, or discovering craft breweries.
What makes AdventureGenie particularly valuable is its deep integration with essential travel services. Users can rent RVs directly through RV Share integration, book campgrounds within the platform, and even access significant fuel discounts through a partnership with Open Roads—potentially saving $0.30-$0.50 per gallon on diesel. As Scott notes, "We saved 50 bucks using the Open Roads integration," which essentially pays for the annual subscription in just one fill-up.
The platform addresses common travel concerns with features like RV-safe routing that helps you avoid low bridges and unsafe passages, and options for travelers who might be intimidated by driving large vehicles—including having RVs delivered directly to campgrounds. AdventureGenie even allows users to share trips with friends or follow itineraries created by trusted travel influencers.
At just $39.99 for an annual subscription (currently discounted from the regular $50 price), AdventureGenie represents a remarkable value proposition for anyone looking to simplify their travel planning while discovering perfect destinations tailored to their preferences. Whether you're a seasoned RV enthusiast or someone looking to try the lifestyle for the first time, this all-in-one planning tool promises to transform how you approach your next adventure on the open road.

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The "Skateboard Effect" Has Finally Come for Your Combustion Engine Jun 09, 2025

Show notes

Ford's Vice Chair John Lawler recently dropped a bombshell that's sent ripples through the automotive world: combustion engines will no longer be brand differentiators and automakers will increasingly source them from suppliers to stay competitive against low-cost rivals, particularly from China.
For generations, car manufacturers have built their identities around their signature powertrains – Ford's EcoBoost, Chrysler's HEMI, Chevy's small-block V8s – engines that enthusiasts could identify by sound alone. But according to Lawler, "consumers don't really think about powertrains the way they did 30 years ago." The shift toward hybridization has already begun stripping away the unique characteristics of combustion engines as electric motors increasingly provide power boosts and emission reductions.
We dubbed this the "skateboard effect" – the standardization that began with electric vehicles is now creeping into traditional combustion engine territory. This raises profound questions about brand identity, warranties, and consumer choice. If Ford, Chevy, and Ram all use identical engines from the same supplier, how will they differentiate their trucks beyond cosmetics and features? What happens when an outsourced engine faces recalls – will we see industry-wide disruptions similar to the Takata airbag crisis? And perhaps most importantly, what does this mean for performance vehicle segments and enthusiast markets that have thrived on distinctive powertrains?
This philosophical shift signals how dramatically electrification has changed the industry's trajectory, even for traditional combustion vehicles. While average consumers might not notice the difference, this potential outsourcing strategy represents perhaps the most fundamental change to how cars are designed, built, and marketed since the mass production of the automobile began. Join us as we explore what this means for the future of automotive enthusiasm and brand loyalty in an increasingly homogenized market.

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