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The Dale Jr. Download - Dirty Mo Media
The Dale Jr. Download - Dirty Mo Media
NASCAR’s 15-time Most Popular Driver and winner of two Daytona 500s, Dale Earnhardt Jr., hosts his very own podcast, The Dale Jr Download on Dirty Mo Media. Earnhardt and co-host Mike Davis raise the bar with unparalleled perspective, candi
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Episodes
491 - Justin Haley - Motivated Now More Than Ever
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined on the Download this week by Kaulig Racing Cup driver Justin Haley. Back in July, Justin helped kick off the NASCAR silly season by announcing he was leaving his longtime home at Kaulig for Rick Ware Racing in 2024. Dale, co-host Mike Davis, and Justin discuss the move and the reasoning behind it. Justin explains that ultimately he wanted to bet on himself and believed in Ware’s determined approach to auto racing. Also, they analyze the back half of the Cup field and the huge gains teams like RWR and Front Row Motorsports have made with the NextGen Cup car. Justin fills listeners in on his journey through the world of motorsports, which began at the age of nine in the quarter midget class in Central Indiana. His Uncles Todd and Drew, who were both motorsports fanatics with ties to the industry, helped Justin embark on an ambitious path up the racing ladder. His climb up through the ranks saw him spend time in street stocks, late models, and Trans Am road racing. His 2016 K&N East Championship helped open the door to the upper echelon of NASCAR, becoming just the 32nd driver in history to have won races in the Trucks, Xfinity, and Cup Series. DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
491 - Justin Haley - Motivated Now More Than Ever
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined on the Download this week by Kaulig Racing Cup driver Justin Haley. Back in July, Justin helped kick off the NASCAR silly season by announcing he was leaving his longtime home at Kaulig for Rick Ware Racing in 2024. Dale, co-host Mike Davis, and Justin discuss the move and the reasoning behind it. Justin explains that ultimately he wanted to bet on himself and believed in Ware’s determined approach to auto racing. Also, they analyze the back half of the Cup field and the huge gains teams like RWR and Front Row Motorsports have made with the NextGen Cup car. Justin fills listeners in on his journey through the world of motorsports, which began at the age of nine in the quarter midget class in Central Indiana. His Uncles Todd and Drew, who were both motorsports fanatics with ties to the industry, helped Justin embark on an ambitious path up the racing ladder. His climb up through the ranks saw him spend time in street stocks, late models, and Trans Am road racing. His 2016 K&N East Championship helped open the door to the upper echelon of NASCAR, becoming just the 32nd driver in history to have won races in the Trucks, Xfinity, and Cup Series. DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:13:16
20 Sep 23
490 - Dale Jr. Recaps His Return at Bristol
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the studio after a captivating performance in the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Bristol. He and co-host Mike Davis take a deep dive into his highly anticipated return to Thunder Valley: The pre-qualifying jitters Changing your mindset to deal with anxiety Dealing with the prospect of not qualifying for the race Outperforming expectations and leading some laps Realizing his car was on fire and what caused it DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
490 - Dale Jr. Recaps His Return at Bristol
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the studio after a captivating performance in the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Bristol. He and co-host Mike Davis take a deep dive into his highly anticipated return to Thunder Valley: The pre-qualifying jitters Changing your mindset to deal with anxiety Dealing with the prospect of not qualifying for the race Outperforming expectations and leading some laps Realizing his car was on fire and what caused it DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:36:17
19 Sep 23
489 - Where Are All My Blues At?
Dale Earnhardt Jr. reconvenes with co-host Mike Davis to close out another week of the Dale Jr. Download. The guys discuss the results of Dale’s “management by strength” report and what it says about his personality. They also react to their incredible Wednesday interview with bass fishing legend and longtime friend of the Earnhardt family, Hank Parker Sr. Dale had several key takeaways from the chat with Hank that was enlightening and made him reflect differently on his relationship with his father. After that, Dale and Mike chat about the return of stage breaks at the ROVAL, Ty Majeski’s penalty, and Zane Smith’s future. During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners asked questions regarding: Dale’s recent trip to the antique store Choosing a different career path The emotions behind winning the first NASCAR race back after the 9/11 tragedy DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
489 - Where Are All My Blues At?
Dale Earnhardt Jr. reconvenes with co-host Mike Davis to close out another week of the Dale Jr. Download. The guys discuss the results of Dale’s “management by strength” report and what it says about his personality. They also react to their incredible Wednesday interview with bass fishing legend and longtime friend of the Earnhardt family, Hank Parker Sr. Dale had several key takeaways from the chat with Hank that was enlightening and made him reflect differently on his relationship with his father. After that, Dale and Mike chat about the return of stage breaks at the ROVAL, Ty Majeski’s penalty, and Zane Smith’s future. During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners asked questions regarding: Dale’s recent trip to the antique store Choosing a different career path The emotions behind winning the first NASCAR race back after the 9/11 tragedy DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:42:07
14 Sep 23
488 - Hank Parker Sr. - A Friendship Larger Than Life
In a conversation that gave us some intensely emotional moments along with plenty of laughs, Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by a great friend of his dad’s - bass fishing legend Hank Parker Sr. Hank Parker and Dale Earnhardt were close friends who met even before they rose to the top of their respective fields. As they both experienced early career triumphs, with Hank winning the BassMaster Classic in 1979 and Dale winning the NASCAR Cup Championship in 1980, they began fishing and hunting together, forging a close bond that would carry through Dale’s passing in 2001. This interview covers everything from why Hank Sr. traded his fishing pole in for a stock car, his journey from working at a marina to becoming one of the most recognized outdoorsmen in history, and the time he spent in the wild with the Earnhardts, with the hilarious and poignant stories to prove it. You may remember the racing endeavors of Hank’s son Hank Jr., who spent time in the All-Pro Series before moving up to the NASCAR Busch Series and eventually winning two races. But the racing bug and need for speed first resonated in Hank, and the story of how he bought a Busch Series car from Dale and attempted to qualify at Rockingham is one you won’t want to miss. Hank also fills Dale Jr. in on why Hank may be responsible for convincing Dale Earnhardt to buy Dale Jr.’s first late model, and then relays some deeply intimate conversations he had with Dale during their hunting trips over the years, showing a side of the Intimidator you’ve never seen before. DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
488 - Hank Parker Sr. - A Friendship Larger Than Life
In a conversation that gave us some intensely emotional moments along with plenty of laughs, Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by a great friend of his dad’s - bass fishing legend Hank Parker Sr. Hank Parker and Dale Earnhardt were close friends who met even before they rose to the top of their respective fields. As they both experienced early career triumphs, with Hank winning the BassMaster Classic in 1979 and Dale winning the NASCAR Cup Championship in 1980, they began fishing and hunting together, forging a close bond that would carry through Dale’s passing in 2001. This interview covers everything from why Hank Sr. traded his fishing pole in for a stock car, his journey from working at a marina to becoming one of the most recognized outdoorsmen in history, and the time he spent in the wild with the Earnhardts, with the hilarious and poignant stories to prove it. You may remember the racing endeavors of Hank’s son Hank Jr., who spent time in the All-Pro Series before moving up to the NASCAR Busch Series and eventually winning two races. But the racing bug and need for speed first resonated in Hank, and the story of how he bought a Busch Series car from Dale and attempted to qualify at Rockingham is one you won’t want to miss. Hank also fills Dale Jr. in on why Hank may be responsible for convincing Dale Earnhardt to buy Dale Jr.’s first late model, and then relays some deeply intimate conversations he had with Dale during their hunting trips over the years, showing a side of the Intimidator you’ve never seen before. DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:49:45
13 Sep 23
487 - Wrong Answers Only
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the NASCAR on NBC broadcasting booth in Kansas for a new episode of Dirty Air. While the NASCAR Cup Playoffs are fully underway, Dale and co-host Mike Davis had more than racing to discuss this week: A surprise gift from WWE The evolution of consuming music Mike won’t share his Spotify playlists, so don’t ask A small blunder during the Xfinity race broadcast Chase Elliott’s reaction to making contact with Kyle Larson DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
487 - Wrong Answers Only
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the NASCAR on NBC broadcasting booth in Kansas for a new episode of Dirty Air. While the NASCAR Cup Playoffs are fully underway, Dale and co-host Mike Davis had more than racing to discuss this week: A surprise gift from WWE The evolution of consuming music Mike won’t share his Spotify playlists, so don’t ask A small blunder during the Xfinity race broadcast Chase Elliott’s reaction to making contact with Kyle Larson DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:22:40
12 Sep 23
486 - Read The Replies, Mike!
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reconvened in the Bojangles Studio to close out the Download week. In light of the comments on a video clip from Tuesday’s debate over the Bowman/Suarez Darlington incident, Dale once again tries to make his point clear to listeners. This leads to a debate between Dale and Mike over the concept of “reading the comments” and Dirty Mo Media’s mission statement in making content. After Wednesday’s incredible interview with WWE superstar Cody Rhodes, Dale is excited at the prospect of getting back into professional wrestling. There are also some NASCAR silly season developments, big opportunities for JRM late model ace Carson Kvapil, and another round of Immaculate Grid. During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners wanted to know about: Having a different pit crew for the Playoffs What a loose wheel feels like during a race What Dale thought of his first magazine cover shoot Race day superstitions DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
486 - Read The Replies, Mike!
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reconvened in the Bojangles Studio to close out the Download week. In light of the comments on a video clip from Tuesday’s debate over the Bowman/Suarez Darlington incident, Dale once again tries to make his point clear to listeners. This leads to a debate between Dale and Mike over the concept of “reading the comments” and Dirty Mo Media’s mission statement in making content. After Wednesday’s incredible interview with WWE superstar Cody Rhodes, Dale is excited at the prospect of getting back into professional wrestling. There are also some NASCAR silly season developments, big opportunities for JRM late model ace Carson Kvapil, and another round of Immaculate Grid. During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners wanted to know about: Having a different pit crew for the Playoffs What a loose wheel feels like during a race What Dale thought of his first magazine cover shoot Race day superstitions DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:24:00
7 Sep 23
485 - WWE Superstar Cody Rhodes - The Journey To The Top
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Cody Rhodes may seem worlds apart on the surface, but their paths through life hold many similarities. On this episode of the Dale Jr. Download, the American Nightmare himself joins Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss their likeness: growing up in the shadow of a generational figure. Dale Jr. shares that while growing up, he used to watch Cody’s father, the iconic Dusty Rhodes, on Saturday morning matinee presentations of NWA Wrestling on television. Meanwhile, Cody recalled the experience of discovering his father’s legacy at an early age, and how over time he developed the inclination to follow in his footsteps. They chat about the internal conflict of being immensely proud of their fathers while wanting to forge a path of their own. The conversation unpacks Cody’s stellar amateur wrestling career in high school, a sport he originally pursued to prove the legitimacy of his father’s career as a professional. They also discuss him taking on a position at WWE at an early age, and the idea that perhaps he was moved up from the developmental ranks too quickly simply because he was Dusty’s son. Cody speaks on playing the role of Stardust and how the rigidness of the WWE writers at the time led to him burning his bridges and returning to the independent circuit to reinvent himself. He also dives into his catastrophic pectoral injury and how he wrestled through it, only to return to glory on the Wrestlemania stage. DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
485 - WWE Superstar Cody Rhodes - The Journey To The Top
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Cody Rhodes may seem worlds apart on the surface, but their paths through life hold many similarities. On this episode of the Dale Jr. Download, the American Nightmare himself joins Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss their likeness: growing up in the shadow of a generational figure. Dale Jr. shares that while growing up, he used to watch Cody’s father, the iconic Dusty Rhodes, on Saturday morning matinee presentations of NWA Wrestling on television. Meanwhile, Cody recalled the experience of discovering his father’s legacy at an early age, and how over time he developed the inclination to follow in his footsteps. They chat about the internal conflict of being immensely proud of their fathers while wanting to forge a path of their own. The conversation unpacks Cody’s stellar amateur wrestling career in high school, a sport he originally pursued to prove the legitimacy of his father’s career as a professional. They also discuss him taking on a position at WWE at an early age, and the idea that perhaps he was moved up from the developmental ranks too quickly simply because he was Dusty’s son. Cody speaks on playing the role of Stardust and how the rigidness of the WWE writers at the time led to him burning his bridges and returning to the independent circuit to reinvent himself. He also dives into his catastrophic pectoral injury and how he wrestled through it, only to return to glory on the Wrestlemania stage. DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
02:09:31
6 Sep 23
484 - Darlington Dust-Ups & Costly Mistakes
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the opening round of the NASCAR Playoffs to join co-host Mike Davis for some Dirty Air. As usual, the Lady in Black pushed drivers to the limits, and the NASCAR post-season started off on a dramatic note: Dale’s surprise race at Florence Speedway Sam Mayer’s run-in with Parker Kligerman Writing script vs. talking naturally Kevin Harvick’s costly pit penalty Alex Bowman and Daniel Suarez’s big crash DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
484 - Darlington Dust-Ups & Costly Mistakes
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the opening round of the NASCAR Playoffs to join co-host Mike Davis for some Dirty Air. As usual, the Lady in Black pushed drivers to the limits, and the NASCAR post-season started off on a dramatic note: Dale’s surprise race at Florence Speedway Sam Mayer’s run-in with Parker Kligerman Writing script vs. talking naturally Kevin Harvick’s costly pit penalty Alex Bowman and Daniel Suarez’s big crash DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:06:31
5 Sep 23
483 - Becoming Earnhardt Vol. 9 - The Dust Settles On 1979
The dust has settled on the greatest NASCAR Cup season in history, and it’s time to recap all that we’ve learned about 1979. Dale Earnhardt Jr. invites some of the guests from BECOMING EARNHARDT for a roundtable discussion to recount all that we’ve learned and conclude some of our favorite character’s stories. Dale’s aunts Cathy Watkins and Kaye Snipes as well as Osterlund Racing crew member Doug Richert return as first-hand character witnesses who helped bring the story of 1979 to life. The chat once again sets the dial back to the beginning of 1979 and views Dale Earnhardt through the eyes of his family, as he’s getting ready to embark on the biggest opportunity in his young racing career. It also dissects complicated characters like Jake Elder and the team dynamic at Osterlund Racing. They dive into the significance of the NASCAR Cup Rookie of the Year in 1979 and just how close things got in the race between Dale and Joe Millikan. Finally, some new details are revealed about the severity of Dale’s injury at Pocono and his lengthy hospital stay and time out of the driver’s seat DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
483 - Becoming Earnhardt Vol. 9 - The Dust Settles On 1979
The dust has settled on the greatest NASCAR Cup season in history, and it’s time to recap all that we’ve learned about 1979. Dale Earnhardt Jr. invites some of the guests from BECOMING EARNHARDT for a roundtable discussion to recount all that we’ve learned and conclude some of our favorite character’s stories. Dale’s aunts Cathy Watkins and Kaye Snipes as well as Osterlund Racing crew member Doug Richert return as first-hand character witnesses who helped bring the story of 1979 to life. The chat once again sets the dial back to the beginning of 1979 and views Dale Earnhardt through the eyes of his family, as he’s getting ready to embark on the biggest opportunity in his young racing career. It also dissects complicated characters like Jake Elder and the team dynamic at Osterlund Racing. They dive into the significance of the NASCAR Cup Rookie of the Year in 1979 and just how close things got in the race between Dale and Joe Millikan. Finally, some new details are revealed about the severity of Dale’s injury at Pocono and his lengthy hospital stay and time out of the driver’s seat DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:26:00
31 Aug 23
482 - Daytona: The Premier Drafting Track
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the NASCAR Regular Season finale at Daytona for another episode of Dirty Air. He joins co-host Mike Davis to break down the superspeedway action and debate a few other topics: The etiquette of liking or not liking bad news on social media Atlanta is NOT a superspeedway Justin Allgaier’s big Daytona win High speeds, big crashes and improved safety The debut of some new Dale Jr. Download segments During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners wrote in questions regarding: Have Dale’s favorite things held up since 2001? The story behind the relic Budweiser case Karsyn Elledge’s appearance on Claim to Fame Dale’s iPhone wallpaper and lock screen photos DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
482 - Daytona: The Premier Drafting Track
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the NASCAR Regular Season finale at Daytona for another episode of Dirty Air. He joins co-host Mike Davis to break down the superspeedway action and debate a few other topics: The etiquette of liking or not liking bad news on social media Atlanta is NOT a superspeedway Justin Allgaier’s big Daytona win High speeds, big crashes and improved safety The debut of some new Dale Jr. Download segments During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners wrote in questions regarding: Have Dale’s favorite things held up since 2001? The story behind the relic Budweiser case Karsyn Elledge’s appearance on Claim to Fame Dale’s iPhone wallpaper and lock screen photos DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:44:34
29 Aug 23
481 - Road Trip Recap From Martinsville
ROAD TRIP! Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis take the Dirty Mo Crew on the road for today's episode. Fresh off the track at Martinsville testing for NASCAR's MX5 support series, Dale Jr. describes how the cars drive, how similar they are to a stock car, and what the future may look like for the series at Martinsville Speedway. Plus Dale Jr. and Mike react to the release of Becoming Earnhardt Volume 7, Denny Hamlin's spicy comments about Sam Mayer from Watkins Glen, and so much more! Plus another short track update from Hannah Newhouse on Short Track Insider. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
481 - Road Trip Recap From Martinsville
ROAD TRIP! Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis take the Dirty Mo Crew on the road for today's episode. Fresh off the track at Martinsville testing for NASCAR's MX5 support series, Dale Jr. describes how the cars drive, how similar they are to a stock car, and what the future may look like for the series at Martinsville Speedway. Plus Dale Jr. and Mike react to the release of Becoming Earnhardt Volume 7, Denny Hamlin's spicy comments about Sam Mayer from Watkins Glen, and so much more! Plus another short track update from Hannah Newhouse on Short Track Insider. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
53:47
24 Aug 23
480 - Pump The Brakes on Stage Breaks
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back to start another week of the Dale Jr. Download with his co-host Mike Davis. This episode is a little out of the ordinary, as it involves a field trip. All the while, the guys had plenty to discuss: Denny Hamlin’s ongoing contract negotiations NASCAR NextGen’s road course problems Sam Mayer’s last lap bump to Ty Gibbs Dale Jr. getting behind the wheel at an IMSA test at Martinsville To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
480 - Pump The Brakes on Stage Breaks
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back to start another week of the Dale Jr. Download with his co-host Mike Davis. This episode is a little out of the ordinary, as it involves a field trip. All the while, the guys had plenty to discuss: Denny Hamlin’s ongoing contract negotiations NASCAR NextGen’s road course problems Sam Mayer’s last lap bump to Ty Gibbs Dale Jr. getting behind the wheel at an IMSA test at Martinsville To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:22:03
22 Aug 23
479 - Did Dale Sr. Come Back Too Early in '79?
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis return once again to the Bojangles Studio to close out the Download week. The guys discuss the latest episode of Becoming Earnhardt which finds Dale Earnhardt watching the 1979 NASCAR Cup season from the sidelines after a major crash at Pocono. They discuss the psychology of the racer and what Dale may have been thinking at the moment, as well as the progression of driver injury rehabilitation protocol. Dale reacts to Noah Gragson’s recent release from Legacy Motor Club and offers up suggestions as to what he should do next in his career. Also, there is a preview of the new NASCAR Classics platform, a round of Immaculate Grid, and a bit from the Short Track Insider. DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
479 - Did Dale Sr. Come Back Too Early in '79?
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis return once again to the Bojangles Studio to close out the Download week. The guys discuss the latest episode of Becoming Earnhardt which finds Dale Earnhardt watching the 1979 NASCAR Cup season from the sidelines after a major crash at Pocono. They discuss the psychology of the racer and what Dale may have been thinking at the moment, as well as the progression of driver injury rehabilitation protocol. Dale reacts to Noah Gragson’s recent release from Legacy Motor Club and offers up suggestions as to what he should do next in his career. Also, there is a preview of the new NASCAR Classics platform, a round of Immaculate Grid, and a bit from the Short Track Insider. DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:42:20
17 Aug 23
478 - What's The Fishing Net Caught On?
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the Racing Capital of the World to join co-host Mike Davis for another episode of Dirty Air. After a compelling NASCAR race weekend in Indianapolis and some new developments in the life of fatherhood, the guys had plenty to unpack: Isla’s first day of kindergarten Michael McDowell’s emotional win How did the road course ringers fare? Is the Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval coming back? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
478 - What's The Fishing Net Caught On?
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the Racing Capital of the World to join co-host Mike Davis for another episode of Dirty Air. After a compelling NASCAR race weekend in Indianapolis and some new developments in the life of fatherhood, the guys had plenty to unpack: Isla’s first day of kindergarten Michael McDowell’s emotional win How did the road course ringers fare? Is the Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval coming back? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
59:06
15 Aug 23
477 - Shane Van Gisbergen - Just The Beginning
Shane Van Gisbergen stops by the Bojangles Studio to chat with Dale Earnhardt Jr. in preparation for his highly anticipated return to NASCAR action this weekend in Indianapolis. After a stunning upset victory in his first NASCAR Cup attempt at the Chicago Street Course, SVG announced his plans to follow up his impressive debut by invading the Racing Capital of the World. He has also made it clear that he’d like to pursue NASCAR racing full-time in 2024, and he unpacks what that may look like with Dale Jr. and Download co-host Mike Davis. But before that can become a reality, SVG is set to see how he’ll fare in pavement oval competition as he embarks on his first NASCAR Truck start for Niece Motorsports at Indianapolis Raceway Park. SVG explains that most of his experience in oval racing came early in his career in the quarter midget ranks, as well as some winged sprint car races he ran more recently. Dale Jr. provides some pointers on how to get around the 0.686-mile speedway and what to expect from Trucks competition. They also discuss SVG’s use of heel-and-toe shifting, the world of Australian V8 Supercars, and the rest of the ringers for this coming weekend in Indy. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
477 - Shane Van Gisbergen - Just The Beginning
Shane Van Gisbergen stops by the Bojangles Studio to chat with Dale Earnhardt Jr. in preparation for his highly anticipated return to NASCAR action this weekend in Indianapolis. After a stunning upset victory in his first NASCAR Cup attempt at the Chicago Street Course, SVG announced his plans to follow up his impressive debut by invading the Racing Capital of the World. He has also made it clear that he’d like to pursue NASCAR racing full-time in 2024, and he unpacks what that may look like with Dale Jr. and Download co-host Mike Davis. But before that can become a reality, SVG is set to see how he’ll fare in pavement oval competition as he embarks on his first NASCAR Truck start for Niece Motorsports at Indianapolis Raceway Park. SVG explains that most of his experience in oval racing came early in his career in the quarter midget ranks, as well as some winged sprint car races he ran more recently. Dale Jr. provides some pointers on how to get around the 0.686-mile speedway and what to expect from Trucks competition. They also discuss SVG’s use of heel-and-toe shifting, the world of Australian V8 Supercars, and the rest of the ringers for this coming weekend in Indy. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:05:07
10 Aug 23
476 - Handicapping The Road Course Ringers at Indy
Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns from a rainy weekend in Michigan to join co-host Mike Davis for another episode of Dirty Air. With a star-studded NASCAR Cup race set for this coming weekend at the Indianapolis Road Course, the guys handicap the top ringers in the field, being Kamui Kobayashi, Shane Van Gisbergen, and Brodie Kostecki. They also recap Chris Buescher’s big win at Michigan and what it means for Roush-Fenway-Keselowski Racing and the rest of the Ford manufacturing roster. During the Ask Jr. segment, listeners sent in questions regarding: What traits Dale looks for in young drivers Should all tracks have lights? Ideal songs for personal entrance music Favorite Washington Commanders moments witnessed in person What movie do you wish you could rewatch for the first time? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
476 - Handicapping The Road Course Ringers at Indy
Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns from a rainy weekend in Michigan to join co-host Mike Davis for another episode of Dirty Air. With a star-studded NASCAR Cup race set for this coming weekend at the Indianapolis Road Course, the guys handicap the top ringers in the field, being Kamui Kobayashi, Shane Van Gisbergen, and Brodie Kostecki. They also recap Chris Buescher’s big win at Michigan and what it means for Roush-Fenway-Keselowski Racing and the rest of the Ford manufacturing roster. During the Ask Jr. segment, listeners sent in questions regarding: What traits Dale looks for in young drivers Should all tracks have lights? Ideal songs for personal entrance music Favorite Washington Commanders moments witnessed in person What movie do you wish you could rewatch for the first time? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:20:22
8 Aug 23
475 - Lawn Mower Concerts
Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns to wrap up the Download week with his co-host Mike Davis. The guys recap Sam Mayer’s first career Xfinity win. They check in on the ever-changing “bubble battle” as the NASCAR Cup Regular Season draws to a close. They also chat about the Xfinity Series’ big announcement that their future race broadcasts will be televised on the CW. Shane Van Gisbergen has announced his plans to race in NASCAR full-time next year, but where will he land? The guys hear from the Short Track Insider and tackle a new game, NASCAR’s Immaculate Grid. During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dale’s choice in sneakers What it was like to shoot the new Bojangles commercial Regular Season Championship significance Playoff points carrying over between rounds What volume Dale prefers his music at in his car To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
475 - Lawn Mower Concerts
Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns to wrap up the Download week with his co-host Mike Davis. The guys recap Sam Mayer’s first career Xfinity win. They check in on the ever-changing “bubble battle” as the NASCAR Cup Regular Season draws to a close. They also chat about the Xfinity Series’ big announcement that their future race broadcasts will be televised on the CW. Shane Van Gisbergen has announced his plans to race in NASCAR full-time next year, but where will he land? The guys hear from the Short Track Insider and tackle a new game, NASCAR’s Immaculate Grid. During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dale’s choice in sneakers What it was like to shoot the new Bojangles commercial Regular Season Championship significance Playoff points carrying over between rounds What volume Dale prefers his music at in his car To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:10:02
3 Aug 23
474 - Radically Changing Richmond
Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins co-host Mike Davis back in the Bojangles Studio for another edition of Dirty Air. After the weekend at Richmond, many are offering up their opinions on the latest short track showcase of the NextGen car, and Dale was ready to provide some insight: New steakhouse discourse Fords looked strong at Richmond PJ1 vs. resin Dale responds to Denny Hamlin and Carson Hocevar To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
474 - Radically Changing Richmond
Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins co-host Mike Davis back in the Bojangles Studio for another edition of Dirty Air. After the weekend at Richmond, many are offering up their opinions on the latest short track showcase of the NextGen car, and Dale was ready to provide some insight: New steakhouse discourse Fords looked strong at Richmond PJ1 vs. resin Dale responds to Denny Hamlin and Carson Hocevar To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:00:45
1 Aug 23
473 - It's Good To Be A NASCAR Fan Right Now
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the Bojangles Studio to join co-host Mike Davis and unpack all the action from NASCAR’s weekend in Pocono. After a controversial finish that has race fans split, there was plenty to discuss: Dale’s adventure reporting from the flag stand Austin Dillon vs. Tyler Reddick Denny Hamlin vs.Kyle Larson How good it is to be a NASCAR fan right now During the Ask Jr. segment of the show, listeners sent in questions about: NASCAR’s delayed caution at the end of the Cup race Apologies between drivers If you didn’t need sleep, how would you spend the extra time? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
473 - It's Good To Be A NASCAR Fan Right Now
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the Bojangles Studio to join co-host Mike Davis and unpack all the action from NASCAR’s weekend in Pocono. After a controversial finish that has race fans split, there was plenty to discuss: Dale’s adventure reporting from the flag stand Austin Dillon vs. Tyler Reddick Denny Hamlin vs.Kyle Larson How good it is to be a NASCAR fan right now During the Ask Jr. segment of the show, listeners sent in questions about: NASCAR’s delayed caution at the end of the Cup race Apologies between drivers If you didn’t need sleep, how would you spend the extra time? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:17:04
24 Jul 23
472. Donnie Allison: A Sport Worth Fighting For
The legendary Donnie Allison joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio to share never before told stories at the table. Donnie recounts the iconic 1979 Daytona 500, and the famous fight he was involved in from the race that put the sport on the map. Donnie details a diverse racing career that includes multiple starts in the Indianapolis 500, and reveals who he believes is the greatest race car driver to ever live. The group also discusses Allison's relationship with Cale Yarbrough after the '79 Daytona 500, a crash that altered the trajectory of his career, and a confrontation between Donnie and Dale Earnhardt that you don't want to miss. Dale Jr and Allison also discuss Donnie's nomination for the NASCAR Hall of Fame's pioneer ballot, and what it would mean for him to be voted in to the prestigious group. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
472. Donnie Allison: A Sport Worth Fighting For
The legendary Donnie Allison joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio to share never before told stories at the table. Donnie recounts the iconic 1979 Daytona 500, and the famous fight he was involved in from the race that put the sport on the map. Donnie details a diverse racing career that includes multiple starts in the Indianapolis 500, and reveals who he believes is the greatest race car driver to ever live. The group also discusses Allison's relationship with Cale Yarbrough after the '79 Daytona 500, a crash that altered the trajectory of his career, and a confrontation between Donnie and Dale Earnhardt that you don't want to miss. Dale Jr and Allison also discuss Donnie's nomination for the NASCAR Hall of Fame's pioneer ballot, and what it would mean for him to be voted in to the prestigious group. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:37:39
20 Jul 23
471. Bubble Wrapping The Cup Series
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the studio with co-host Mike Davis to break down NASCAR’s weekend in New Hampshire. As always, Dale had a lot to share from the broadcasting booth, and the guys chat about: Why not race in the rain? Five racing grooves at New Hampshire The short track package test has been postponed The developing Playoff points bubble situation During the Ask Jr. segment of the show, listeners sent in questions regarding: Larry the Lobster Dale’s trophy collection Martin Truex Jr.’s 2024 plans To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
471. Bubble Wrapping The Cup Series
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the studio with co-host Mike Davis to break down NASCAR’s weekend in New Hampshire. As always, Dale had a lot to share from the broadcasting booth, and the guys chat about: Why not race in the rain? Five racing grooves at New Hampshire The short track package test has been postponed The developing Playoff points bubble situation During the Ask Jr. segment of the show, listeners sent in questions regarding: Larry the Lobster Dale’s trophy collection Martin Truex Jr.’s 2024 plans To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
56:25
18 Jul 23
470 - Will Chase Elliott Make The Playoffs?
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back again to wrap up another week of the Dale Jr. Download. After the exciting, Wednesday world premiere of Becoming Earnhardt, the guys reflect on the first episode and what it was like putting that series together. They also react to the big news that Busch Beer will be joining Ross Chastain and Trackhouse for the 2024 NASCAR season. Now that we’re past the halfway point of the NASCAR season, it’s time to start looking at the “bubble battle” and the guys speculate who may “points in” as well as who will make the final four. Finally, no Thursday episode would be complete without a new game (Guess the Year) and a report from the Short Track Insider. During the Ask Jr. segment, listeners sent in questions regarding: Do Isla and Nicole realize Dale Jr.’s voice is in Cars? What is the origin of racing under number 88? What fan tattoo stands out the most? NBC pre-race show grid walk and other ideas To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
470 - Will Chase Elliott Make The Playoffs?
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back again to wrap up another week of the Dale Jr. Download. After the exciting, Wednesday world premiere of Becoming Earnhardt, the guys reflect on the first episode and what it was like putting that series together. They also react to the big news that Busch Beer will be joining Ross Chastain and Trackhouse for the 2024 NASCAR season. Now that we’re past the halfway point of the NASCAR season, it’s time to start looking at the “bubble battle” and the guys speculate who may “points in” as well as who will make the final four. Finally, no Thursday episode would be complete without a new game (Guess the Year) and a report from the Short Track Insider. During the Ask Jr. segment, listeners sent in questions regarding: Do Isla and Nicole realize Dale Jr.’s voice is in Cars? What is the origin of racing under number 88? What fan tattoo stands out the most? NBC pre-race show grid walk and other ideas To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:12:02
13 Jul 23
469 - Atlanta, Hottest Ticket on the Schedule?
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back after NASCAR’s exciting weekend in Atlanta to join co-host Mike Davis and debrief the weekend. As always, there was plenty of homelife updates and racing action to unpack: Becoming Earnahrdt is upon us Potty Training round two Consequences of drinking a whole bottle of wine Atlanta is back To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
469 - Atlanta, Hottest Ticket on the Schedule?
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back after NASCAR’s exciting weekend in Atlanta to join co-host Mike Davis and debrief the weekend. As always, there was plenty of homelife updates and racing action to unpack: Becoming Earnahrdt is upon us Potty Training round two Consequences of drinking a whole bottle of wine Atlanta is back To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:16:14
11 Jul 23
468 - Chicago was MASSIVE
Dale Earnhardt Jr. called in from vacation to join co-host Mike Davis, and he brought his fellow vacationer TJ Majors along with him. After the historic NASCAR weekend in Chicago, everyone felt the need to unwind and process all of the monumental events: Dale’s Bluey “controversy” Dale and TJ’s beach house excursion The magnitude of the Chicago Street Race event Shane Van Gisbergen’s skill level and victory During the Ask Jr. segment of the show, listeners sent in questions regarding: Kip Childress’ new position at the CARS Tour Dale and TJ fighting on the radio How many steps did the guys log during the Chicago weekend? Did Dale get a Chicago dog or any deep-dish pizza? Using track walks to help scout new tracks To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
468 - Chicago was MASSIVE
Dale Earnhardt Jr. called in from vacation to join co-host Mike Davis, and he brought his fellow vacationer TJ Majors along with him. After the historic NASCAR weekend in Chicago, everyone felt the need to unwind and process all of the monumental events: Dale’s Bluey “controversy” Dale and TJ’s beach house excursion The magnitude of the Chicago Street Race event Shane Van Gisbergen’s skill level and victory During the Ask Jr. segment of the show, listeners sent in questions regarding: Kip Childress’ new position at the CARS Tour Dale and TJ fighting on the radio How many steps did the guys log during the Chicago weekend? Did Dale get a Chicago dog or any deep-dish pizza? Using track walks to help scout new tracks To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:32:29
5 Jul 23
467 - Matt Kenseth - Mr. Consistency
The Class of 2000 reunites as NASCAR Hall of Famer Matt Kenseth joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio. Matt catches everyone up on what he’s been doing since retiring from full-time racing and reflects on whether he misses the week-to-week grind of being a NASCAR Cup racer. Matt also touches on his 2020 return to Ganassi Racing during COVID, and his experience and future plans with SRX. Dale and Matt had a lot to catch up on, and wound back the hands of time to when they first met coming through the NASCAR Xfinity ranks. Dale explains the impact that Matt’s first Xfinity at Rockingham in 1998 had on his perception in the NASCAR garage, and how it made him regarded as a legitimate contender in the rising class of drivers. The two old friends discuss the strange sensation of being happy for each other over the years, all while being partially jealous of one another’s success and how it motivated them to be better behind the wheel. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
467 - Matt Kenseth - Mr. Consistency
The Class of 2000 reunites as NASCAR Hall of Famer Matt Kenseth joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio. Matt catches everyone up on what he’s been doing since retiring from full-time racing and reflects on whether he misses the week-to-week grind of being a NASCAR Cup racer. Matt also touches on his 2020 return to Ganassi Racing during COVID, and his experience and future plans with SRX. Dale and Matt had a lot to catch up on, and wound back the hands of time to when they first met coming through the NASCAR Xfinity ranks. Dale explains the impact that Matt’s first Xfinity at Rockingham in 1998 had on his perception in the NASCAR garage, and how it made him regarded as a legitimate contender in the rising class of drivers. The two old friends discuss the strange sensation of being happy for each other over the years, all while being partially jealous of one another’s success and how it motivated them to be better behind the wheel. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:26:26
4 Jul 23
466 - Business of Motorsports Part IV - Sam Flood
Class is back in session as Kelley Earnhardt Miller joins co-host Mike Davis for another edition of Business of Motorsports, this time with the President of NBC Sports Sam Flood. After tackling team ownership, race promotion, and the souvenir industry, Kelley and Mike were eager to learn more about the world of television broadcasting and media rights. Sam explains how an unexpected sports injury in college led to him filling in as a commentator, which opened his eyes to a career path in broadcasting. After spending time at ABC Sports, he found his way to NBC covering the 1988 Seoul Olympics as a researcher and has worked for the network ever since. Sam goes into what he looks for as an executive producer working on the content side of some of the biggest sports broadcasts in television. They also discuss the rise of digital streaming and how cable television has had to adapt and will continue to transform. Finally, he breaks down his philosophy for broadcasting a race and what his days at the racetrack look like. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
466 - Business of Motorsports Part IV - Sam Flood
Class is back in session as Kelley Earnhardt Miller joins co-host Mike Davis for another edition of Business of Motorsports, this time with the President of NBC Sports Sam Flood. After tackling team ownership, race promotion, and the souvenir industry, Kelley and Mike were eager to learn more about the world of television broadcasting and media rights. Sam explains how an unexpected sports injury in college led to him filling in as a commentator, which opened his eyes to a career path in broadcasting. After spending time at ABC Sports, he found his way to NBC covering the 1988 Seoul Olympics as a researcher and has worked for the network ever since. Sam goes into what he looks for as an executive producer working on the content side of some of the biggest sports broadcasts in television. They also discuss the rise of digital streaming and how cable television has had to adapt and will continue to transform. Finally, he breaks down his philosophy for broadcasting a race and what his days at the racetrack look like. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:42:25
27 Jun 23
465 - Josh Berry Reaction & 1st Half Accolades
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis wrap up the week as they react to their Wednesday interview with Josh Berry. The guys reflect on how much they’ve enjoyed documenting Josh’s career progression over the years through his appearances on the Download, and Dale explains that he wishes he would have touched on what Josh’s promotion to the NASCAR Cup Series means for late model racing. It’s also time to give out mid-season accolades for the Cup Series and make some new final four predictions. Plus, no Thursday show would be complete without hearing from the Short Track Insider! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
465 - Josh Berry Reaction & 1st Half Accolades
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis wrap up the week as they react to their Wednesday interview with Josh Berry. The guys reflect on how much they’ve enjoyed documenting Josh’s career progression over the years through his appearances on the Download, and Dale explains that he wishes he would have touched on what Josh’s promotion to the NASCAR Cup Series means for late model racing. It’s also time to give out mid-season accolades for the Cup Series and make some new final four predictions. Plus, no Thursday show would be complete without hearing from the Short Track Insider! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
34:30
22 Jun 23
464 - Josh Berry - Marching 4Ward
On the biggest day of his racing career, Josh Berry joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to share the news that he’ll be replacing Kevin Harvick in the Stewart-Haas Racing number 4 next year. Josh has been a frequent guest on the Dale Jr. Download throughout the years and could think of no better way to celebrate this major milestone than to sit down and reflect on his time spent at JR Motorsports. The interview covers how the deal to go Cup racing came together, and how Josh’s time spent filling in at Hendrick Motorsports earlier this year served as almost an audition in the decision-making. Dale inquires about how Josh was able to juggle so much at the same time this year, between racing full-time in the Xfinity Series, filling in for Chase Elliott and Alex Bowman, and working on putting together his 2024 Cup plans. Dale and Josh discuss the prospect of being a career late model racer and how his success at the short track level eventually led to the opportunity to run 12 races for JR Motorsports in the Xfinity Series. They also recognize that Josh’s first career Xfinity win at Martinsville helped change the perception of him as a driver and paved the way to his eventual Cup series opportunity. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
464 - Josh Berry - Marching 4Ward
On the biggest day of his racing career, Josh Berry joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to share the news that he’ll be replacing Kevin Harvick in the Stewart-Haas Racing number 4 next year. Josh has been a frequent guest on the Dale Jr. Download throughout the years and could think of no better way to celebrate this major milestone than to sit down and reflect on his time spent at JR Motorsports. The interview covers how the deal to go Cup racing came together, and how Josh’s time spent filling in at Hendrick Motorsports earlier this year served as almost an audition in the decision-making. Dale inquires about how Josh was able to juggle so much at the same time this year, between racing full-time in the Xfinity Series, filling in for Chase Elliott and Alex Bowman, and working on putting together his 2024 Cup plans. Dale and Josh discuss the prospect of being a career late model racer and how his success at the short track level eventually led to the opportunity to run 12 races for JR Motorsports in the Xfinity Series. They also recognize that Josh’s first career Xfinity win at Martinsville helped change the perception of him as a driver and paved the way to his eventual Cup series opportunity. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:00:13
21 Jun 23
463 - Beers on the Beach
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back from their Father’s Day festivities to compare their experiences from the weekend: Another weekend at the beach Beer smuggling technique Trying new experiences vs. a peaceful day at home The CARS Tour race at Dominion During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners wrote in questions regarding: Dale evolving as a broadcaster since his debut Favorite country music artist What type of music Dale Sr. enjoyed Bucket list vacation spot To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
463 - Beers on the Beach
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back from their Father’s Day festivities to compare their experiences from the weekend: Another weekend at the beach Beer smuggling technique Trying new experiences vs. a peaceful day at home The CARS Tour race at Dominion During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners wrote in questions regarding: Dale evolving as a broadcaster since his debut Favorite country music artist What type of music Dale Sr. enjoyed Bucket list vacation spot To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:09:17
20 Jun 23
462 - Richie Gilmore (Part 2) - The DEI Days
In the dramatic conclusion of their conversation, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis talk to longtime NASCAR engine builder Richie Gilmore about his time at Dale Earnhardt Inc. Richie recounts the time at Talladega when he was approached by Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Ty Norris about coming to work at DEI, heading up the engine program for Dale Jr.’s imminent Cup debut. Once there though, Richie realized the grass is always greener on the other side, and work environment and disorganization almost sent him packing back to Hendrick Motorsports. It was then that he had an unforgettable meeting with Dale Sr. that would solidify his place at the organization for years to come. Dale Jr. and Richie have a vulnerable exchange about the fallout at DEI and the responsibility they felt for the way things unfolded. Richie talked about the transition from running the engine shop to running the team’s day-to-day operation when he was promoted to Vice President of Competition after Norris’ departure. Richie also gives listeners some insight into the 2020 merging of Richard Childress Racing and HMS’ engine-building efforts and the effect it has had on Chevrolet’s NASCAR efforts. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
462 - Richie Gilmore (Part 2) - The DEI Days
In the dramatic conclusion of their conversation, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis talk to longtime NASCAR engine builder Richie Gilmore about his time at Dale Earnhardt Inc. Richie recounts the time at Talladega when he was approached by Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Ty Norris about coming to work at DEI, heading up the engine program for Dale Jr.’s imminent Cup debut. Once there though, Richie realized the grass is always greener on the other side, and work environment and disorganization almost sent him packing back to Hendrick Motorsports. It was then that he had an unforgettable meeting with Dale Sr. that would solidify his place at the organization for years to come. Dale Jr. and Richie have a vulnerable exchange about the fallout at DEI and the responsibility they felt for the way things unfolded. Richie talked about the transition from running the engine shop to running the team’s day-to-day operation when he was promoted to Vice President of Competition after Norris’ departure. Richie also gives listeners some insight into the 2020 merging of Richard Childress Racing and HMS’ engine-building efforts and the effect it has had on Chevrolet’s NASCAR efforts. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:27:31
15 Jun 23
461 - Richie Gilmore (Part 1) - The Best Leaders Are Born Leaders
Dale Earnhardt Jr. reunites with a major figure from his career as he and co-host Mike Davis sit down with former Dale Earnhardt Inc. engine builder Richie Gilmore. After getting his start working on his uncle Jim Landry’s supermodifieds in the New Hampshire short track scene, Richie found his way into the NASCAR Busch North Series garage, and eventually gravitated to North Carolina, It was there he found a position working for Bob Whitcomb Racing, and in 1990 with Derrike Cope behind the wheel, the small but mighty outfit scored an upset victory in the Daytona 500. The interview gives an in-depth look at that 1990 Daytona victory and how the Whitcomb team miraculously completed the entirety of Speedweeks with the same power plant, which Richie helped assemble with his mentor Keith Dorton. Richie also speaks on his time working with Keith’s brother Randy Dorton at Hendrick Motorsports, and how he spearheaded HMS’s engine leasing program to Joe Gibbs Racing, which resulted in Dale Jarrett’s 1993 Daytona 500 triumph. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
461 - Richie Gilmore (Part 1) - The Best Leaders Are Born Leaders
Dale Earnhardt Jr. reunites with a major figure from his career as he and co-host Mike Davis sit down with former Dale Earnhardt Inc. engine builder Richie Gilmore. After getting his start working on his uncle Jim Landry’s supermodifieds in the New Hampshire short track scene, Richie found his way into the NASCAR Busch North Series garage, and eventually gravitated to North Carolina, It was there he found a position working for Bob Whitcomb Racing, and in 1990 with Derrike Cope behind the wheel, the small but mighty outfit scored an upset victory in the Daytona 500. The interview gives an in-depth look at that 1990 Daytona victory and how the Whitcomb team miraculously completed the entirety of Speedweeks with the same power plant, which Richie helped assemble with his mentor Keith Dorton. Richie also speaks on his time working with Keith’s brother Randy Dorton at Hendrick Motorsports, and how he spearheaded HMS’s engine leasing program to Joe Gibbs Racing, which resulted in Dale Jarrett’s 1993 Daytona 500 triumph. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:12:39
14 Jun 23
460 - Cabo, Sonoma, Le Mans, & Nashville
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from vacation to join co-host Mike Davis and chat about life, Sonoma, and endurance racing: Dale’s family vacation in Cabo Beach Yoga No stage breaks in Sonoma Would an endurance race work for NASCAR? During the Ask Jr. segment of the broadcast, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dale’s weekly preparation for NASCAR on NBC broadcasts What happens when drivers go to the infield care center Where to go when visiting Nashville for the first time Favorite piece of Dale Jr. merchandise To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
460 - Cabo, Sonoma, Le Mans, & Nashville
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from vacation to join co-host Mike Davis and chat about life, Sonoma, and endurance racing: Dale’s family vacation in Cabo Beach Yoga No stage breaks in Sonoma Would an endurance race work for NASCAR? During the Ask Jr. segment of the broadcast, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dale’s weekly preparation for NASCAR on NBC broadcasts What happens when drivers go to the infield care center Where to go when visiting Nashville for the first time Favorite piece of Dale Jr. merchandise To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:19:30
13 Jun 23
459 - Dale Jr.'s Impact on the NASCAR Souvenir Business - The Business of Motorsports Part IIII
As Kelley Earnhardt Miller’s conversation with Joe Mattes continues, she and co-host Mike Davis ask him about his time spent between Earnhardt-related companies, where he ended up working for the NASCAR.com superstore. When the time came for Dale Jr. to leave Dale Earnhardt Inc. in 2007, Kelley knew she wanted to work with Joe on setting up the branding and marketing for the new endeavor. Joe highlights how he came to work at JR Motorsports and the planning that went behind the announcement of Dale Jr.’s departure from DEI. The conversation covers what was considered one of the best-kept secrets in NASCAR history, as many merchandise vendors were involved but the news of Dale Jr.’s team switch somehow remained sealed. The 2007 announcement and merchandise campaign would go on to be one of the biggest retail successes in auto racing history, and ultimately it was carried out by a handful of people. The interview also gives insight into some of the most memorable Earnhardt-related merchandising and how it all came to be. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
459 - Dale Jr.'s Impact on the NASCAR Souvenir Business - The Business of Motorsports Part IIII
As Kelley Earnhardt Miller’s conversation with Joe Mattes continues, she and co-host Mike Davis ask him about his time spent between Earnhardt-related companies, where he ended up working for the NASCAR.com superstore. When the time came for Dale Jr. to leave Dale Earnhardt Inc. in 2007, Kelley knew she wanted to work with Joe on setting up the branding and marketing for the new endeavor. Joe highlights how he came to work at JR Motorsports and the planning that went behind the announcement of Dale Jr.’s departure from DEI. The conversation covers what was considered one of the best-kept secrets in NASCAR history, as many merchandise vendors were involved but the news of Dale Jr.’s team switch somehow remained sealed. The 2007 announcement and merchandise campaign would go on to be one of the biggest retail successes in auto racing history, and ultimately it was carried out by a handful of people. The interview also gives insight into some of the most memorable Earnhardt-related merchandising and how it all came to be. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:31:37
7 Jun 23
458 - Dale Earnhardt and the Rise of the NASCAR Souvenir Business - The Business of Motorsports Part III
Kelley Earnhardt Miller is back for another installment of the Business of Motorsports as she and co-host Mike Davis sit down with JR Motorsports’ Senior Vice President of Business and Strategy Joe Mattes. After spending years in the banking and garment industries, Mattes was connected with Dale Earnhardt Sr. through Don Hawk. Before Joe knew it, he was moving into Dale Sr.’s lake house and taking over a racing empire. Joe fills listeners in on how he and the Earnhardt team created some of the most iconic racing souvenirs of all time, including the Winston 25th Anniversary and the 1996 Olympics diecasts. He also explained the importance of not only working with large distributors and outlets but also directly with smaller vendors and collectors. The episode explains Joe’s departure from Dale Sr.'s enterprise and his early involvement with e-commerce through NASCAR.com. In part two, Joe details his journey back into the Earnhardt inner circle, this time through Dale Jr. and JR Motorsports. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
458 - Dale Earnhardt and the Rise of the NASCAR Souvenir Business - The Business of Motorsports Part III
Kelley Earnhardt Miller is back for another installment of the Business of Motorsports as she and co-host Mike Davis sit down with JR Motorsports’ Senior Vice President of Business and Strategy Joe Mattes. After spending years in the banking and garment industries, Mattes was connected with Dale Earnhardt Sr. through Don Hawk. Before Joe knew it, he was moving into Dale Sr.’s lake house and taking over a racing empire. Joe fills listeners in on how he and the Earnhardt team created some of the most iconic racing souvenirs of all time, including the Winston 25th Anniversary and the 1996 Olympics diecasts. He also explained the importance of not only working with large distributors and outlets but also directly with smaller vendors and collectors. The episode explains Joe’s departure from Dale Sr.'s enterprise and his early involvement with e-commerce through NASCAR.com. In part two, Joe details his journey back into the Earnhardt inner circle, this time through Dale Jr. and JR Motorsports. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:37:28
6 Jun 23
457 - It's Nothing Until It's Something
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are joined by JR Motorsports driver Justin Allgaier to discuss his weekend victory in the NASCAR Xfinity Series event at Charlotte Motor Speedway. They also chat about the adversity the team has faced this year and what has kept them from winning races. Dale fills Mike in on a book he recently read and tells the story of his first tick bite. We also hear from the Short Track Insider and our Man on the Street reporting from Indianapolis Motor Speedway. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
457 - It's Nothing Until It's Something
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are joined by JR Motorsports driver Justin Allgaier to discuss his weekend victory in the NASCAR Xfinity Series event at Charlotte Motor Speedway. They also chat about the adversity the team has faced this year and what has kept them from winning races. Dale fills Mike in on a book he recently read and tells the story of his first tick bite. We also hear from the Short Track Insider and our Man on the Street reporting from Indianapolis Motor Speedway. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:01:31
1 Jun 23
456 - Ryan Blaney - The Drought is Finally Over
2023 Coca-Cola 600 winner Ryan Blaney joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis fresh out of victory lane to discuss how he celebrated and what the win meant to him. Dale and Mike ask Ryan to weigh in on the Chase Elliott/Denny Hamlin incident and what he saw during the race. They also discuss Ryan’s time in the broadcast booth and how it makes him view driver feuds and conflict differently. The guys look ahead to this coming NASCAR weekend in St. Louis at Gateway International Raceway and Ryan gives his opinion of the new NextGen short-track package. They also reflect on the race at North Wilkesboro and how Ryan liked returning to the famed oval after its nearly 30-year absence from the NASCAR Cup schedule. Ryan’s victory at the Coke 600 was special because it snapped a 59-race losing streak, and he fills listeners in on what kept him motivated during the tough time period in his Cup career. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
456 - Ryan Blaney - The Drought is Finally Over
2023 Coca-Cola 600 winner Ryan Blaney joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis fresh out of victory lane to discuss how he celebrated and what the win meant to him. Dale and Mike ask Ryan to weigh in on the Chase Elliott/Denny Hamlin incident and what he saw during the race. They also discuss Ryan’s time in the broadcast booth and how it makes him view driver feuds and conflict differently. The guys look ahead to this coming NASCAR weekend in St. Louis at Gateway International Raceway and Ryan gives his opinion of the new NextGen short-track package. They also reflect on the race at North Wilkesboro and how Ryan liked returning to the famed oval after its nearly 30-year absence from the NASCAR Cup schedule. Ryan’s victory at the Coke 600 was special because it snapped a 59-race losing streak, and he fills listeners in on what kept him motivated during the tough time period in his Cup career. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:17:45
31 May 23
455 - The World 600, Best Race of the Year?
Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins co-host Mike Davis after the greatest weekend in racing to recap all the action and speculate on what news may come out this week from NASCAR: Chase Elliott and Denny Hamlin’s on-track incident How will NASCAR govern this situation? Emotional win for Blaney Dale’s time with NBC for the Indianapolis 500 broadcast During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners wrote in questions regarding: Drivers celebrating in the grandstand Watching old races with friends Preparing for NBC’s return to NASCAR broadcasting Restoration project updates To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
455 - The World 600, Best Race of the Year?
Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins co-host Mike Davis after the greatest weekend in racing to recap all the action and speculate on what news may come out this week from NASCAR: Chase Elliott and Denny Hamlin’s on-track incident How will NASCAR govern this situation? Emotional win for Blaney Dale’s time with NBC for the Indianapolis 500 broadcast During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners wrote in questions regarding: Drivers celebrating in the grandstand Watching old races with friends Preparing for NBC’s return to NASCAR broadcasting Restoration project updates To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:15:38
30 May 23
454 - We've Got Some New Hardware for the Studio
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back once again to wrap up the Dale Jr. Download week. The guys react to their stunning interview with Slugger Labbe which answered a lot of questions about the Dale Earnhardt Inc. days, and provided some closure to the turmoil the team experienced in 2005. Also, we hear from the Short Track Insider and play another round of Guess the Driver. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
454 - We've Got Some New Hardware for the Studio
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back once again to wrap up the Dale Jr. Download week. The guys react to their stunning interview with Slugger Labbe which answered a lot of questions about the Dale Earnhardt Inc. days, and provided some closure to the turmoil the team experienced in 2005. Also, we hear from the Short Track Insider and play another round of Guess the Driver. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
40:01
25 May 23
453 - Slugger Labbe - The DEI Days, Yates' Go-To, & A Broken Toolbox
Dale Earnhardt Jr. digs up a part of his past when he and co-host Mike Davis sit down with longtime NASCAR Crew Chief Slugger Labbe. After growing up in Maine and getting his start in the Busch North Tour ranks, Slugger hitched a ride to North Carolina with the racing Houston family and started his path on what would become a long career in the NASCAR garage. Over the years, Slugger worked for many powerhouse organizations such as Hendrick Motorsports, Yates Racing, and Richard Childress Racing. Slugger got his footing in the North Carolina NASCAR scene by working for teams in the Busch Grand National Ranks, under drivers Tommy Houston, Jeff Green, and Terry Labonte. He soon got a phone call offering him a job at Hendrick to work as a tire specialist. A few years later he got his first crack at being a crew chief through the Yates organization, calling the shots for Kenny Irwin Jr. A major topic of discussion was Slugger’s second stint at Dale Earnhardt Incorporated, where he served as Michael Waltrip’s Crew Chief starting in the middle of the 2001 season. Slugger provides a lot of never before heard stories about the famed organization and he and Dale are able to provide some closure on some of the tumultuous events that took place during that time. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
453 - Slugger Labbe - The DEI Days, Yates' Go-To, & A Broken Toolbox
Dale Earnhardt Jr. digs up a part of his past when he and co-host Mike Davis sit down with longtime NASCAR Crew Chief Slugger Labbe. After growing up in Maine and getting his start in the Busch North Tour ranks, Slugger hitched a ride to North Carolina with the racing Houston family and started his path on what would become a long career in the NASCAR garage. Over the years, Slugger worked for many powerhouse organizations such as Hendrick Motorsports, Yates Racing, and Richard Childress Racing. Slugger got his footing in the North Carolina NASCAR scene by working for teams in the Busch Grand National Ranks, under drivers Tommy Houston, Jeff Green, and Terry Labonte. He soon got a phone call offering him a job at Hendrick to work as a tire specialist. A few years later he got his first crack at being a crew chief through the Yates organization, calling the shots for Kenny Irwin Jr. A major topic of discussion was Slugger’s second stint at Dale Earnhardt Incorporated, where he served as Michael Waltrip’s Crew Chief starting in the middle of the 2001 season. Slugger provides a lot of never before heard stories about the famed organization and he and Dale are able to provide some closure on some of the tumultuous events that took place during that time. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:57:12
24 May 23
452 - Short Tracks, We Need to Fix This
After NASCAR’s triumphant return to North Wilkesboro Speedway, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles Studio to recap the weekend. Why the weekend was very much a success, the NextGen car’s short track package problems once again were on display and provided much to discuss: The new format was designed to showcase the track Rain tire experiment during the heat races How do we fix the short-track package? The future of stock car racing at short tracks is in jeopardy During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dale’s most sought-after throwback t-shirt Weird Christmas gifts NASCAR having elimination qualifying like the Indianapolis 500 Will the return of North Wilkesboro spark other lost speedway revivals? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
452 - Short Tracks, We Need to Fix This
After NASCAR’s triumphant return to North Wilkesboro Speedway, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles Studio to recap the weekend. Why the weekend was very much a success, the NextGen car’s short track package problems once again were on display and provided much to discuss: The new format was designed to showcase the track Rain tire experiment during the heat races How do we fix the short-track package? The future of stock car racing at short tracks is in jeopardy During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dale’s most sought-after throwback t-shirt Weird Christmas gifts NASCAR having elimination qualifying like the Indianapolis 500 Will the return of North Wilkesboro spark other lost speedway revivals? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:07:34
23 May 23
451 - Recapping The CARS Tour Race at North Wilkesboro
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is fresh out of the driver’s seat after competing in the CARS Tour late model stock car event at North Wilkesboro to join his co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio. Dale recounts his experience in the race and how an on-track traffic jam led to his car being damaged, altering the rest of his race execution. Dale and Mike also discuss the impressive talent in the CARS Tour ranks and preview the upcoming NASCAR All-Star weekend. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
451 - Recapping The CARS Tour Race at North Wilkesboro
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is fresh out of the driver’s seat after competing in the CARS Tour late model stock car event at North Wilkesboro to join his co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio. Dale recounts his experience in the race and how an on-track traffic jam led to his car being damaged, altering the rest of his race execution. Dale and Mike also discuss the impressive talent in the CARS Tour ranks and preview the upcoming NASCAR All-Star weekend. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
59:58
18 May 23
450 - Welcome to North Wilkesboro w/ Josh Berry
Josh Berry joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis live from Dale's bus to talk about this week's upcoming CARS Tour race at North Wilkesboro Speedway with Dale Jr. behind the wheel of the No. 3 Sun Drop car. Dale, Josh, and Mike recap Tuesday's practice session, a flashback to last year's CARS Tour race where Crew Chief Josh helped Dale Jr. finish Top 3, and the challenges some Cup Series regulars might face in this race. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
450 - Welcome to North Wilkesboro w/ Josh Berry
Josh Berry joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis live from Dale's bus to talk about this week's upcoming CARS Tour race at North Wilkesboro Speedway with Dale Jr. behind the wheel of the No. 3 Sun Drop car. Dale, Josh, and Mike recap Tuesday's practice session, a flashback to last year's CARS Tour race where Crew Chief Josh helped Dale Jr. finish Top 3, and the challenges some Cup Series regulars might face in this race. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
56:46
17 May 23
449 - Recapping Darlington & Previewing North Wilkesboro
It’s North Wilkesboro week, and before hopping behind the wheel of the JR Motorsports Sun Drop #3 Late Model Stock Car, Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins his co-host Mike Davis in Bojangles Studio for some Dirty Air. Dale is fresh from his trip to Darlington, where he was honored as one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers. Dale and Mike discuss: Interactions with Geoff Bodine Carl Edwards’ unexpected reception Kevin Harvick’s hot take on drivers fighting Ross Chastain and Kyle Larson’s Darlington dust-up During the Ask Jr. segment brought to you by Xfinity 10G, listeners sent in questions regarding: What video games Dale plays Which events at North Wilkesboro Dale is most excited for If Dale could ask him pets and animals one question, what would it be? Least favorite household chores To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
449 - Recapping Darlington & Previewing North Wilkesboro
It’s North Wilkesboro week, and before hopping behind the wheel of the JR Motorsports Sun Drop #3 Late Model Stock Car, Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins his co-host Mike Davis in Bojangles Studio for some Dirty Air. Dale is fresh from his trip to Darlington, where he was honored as one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers. Dale and Mike discuss: Interactions with Geoff Bodine Carl Edwards’ unexpected reception Kevin Harvick’s hot take on drivers fighting Ross Chastain and Kyle Larson’s Darlington dust-up During the Ask Jr. segment brought to you by Xfinity 10G, listeners sent in questions regarding: What video games Dale plays Which events at North Wilkesboro Dale is most excited for If Dale could ask him pets and animals one question, what would it be? Least favorite household chores To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:20:55
16 May 23
448 - Coffee in the Morning
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reunite to close out the Dale Jr. Download week by discussing how their picks in the Denny Hamlin Bracket Challenge are faring after the first round at Kansas, watching some Macho Man Randy Savage clips and playing a couple of rounds of “Guess the Driver” and “Stump the Download” To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
448 - Coffee in the Morning
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reunite to close out the Dale Jr. Download week by discussing how their picks in the Denny Hamlin Bracket Challenge are faring after the first round at Kansas, watching some Macho Man Randy Savage clips and playing a couple of rounds of “Guess the Driver” and “Stump the Download” To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
40:17
11 May 23
447 - Robbie Reiser - I Earned My Way Everyday
Dale Earnhardt Jr. reconnects with one of his fiercest rivals from his NASCAR Xfinity Series days, former crew chief Robbie Reiser. During Dale’s 1998 and ‘99 Xfinity Championship season runs, his main competition was fellow up-and-comer Matt Kenseth, for whom Reiser was calling the shots. Dale and co-host Mike Davis chat with Robbie about his family’s history in racing the short tracks of Wisconsin, where his father John was a champion dirt late model driver. Robbie recounts a hilarious story of how he came to be behind the wheel, thanks in part to wrecking his sister’s Ford Pinto in a street race with a friend. After quickly rising through the local ranks in Southern Wisconsin, Robbie and his father John took the plunge into the world of NASCAR, moving their operation to Denver, North Carolina. After nearly losing everything due to a lack of funding, a series of events led to Robbie putting his former rival from home, Matt Kenseth, behind the wheel. They immediately found harmony and became contenders in the Xfinity Series, where they impressed the likes of Mark Martin and Jack Roush. Before long, the Reiser operation was absorbed by Roush Racing, and they took on the superstars of NASCAR Cup, where they would win a championship in 2003. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
447 - Robbie Reiser - I Earned My Way Everyday
Dale Earnhardt Jr. reconnects with one of his fiercest rivals from his NASCAR Xfinity Series days, former crew chief Robbie Reiser. During Dale’s 1998 and ‘99 Xfinity Championship season runs, his main competition was fellow up-and-comer Matt Kenseth, for whom Reiser was calling the shots. Dale and co-host Mike Davis chat with Robbie about his family’s history in racing the short tracks of Wisconsin, where his father John was a champion dirt late model driver. Robbie recounts a hilarious story of how he came to be behind the wheel, thanks in part to wrecking his sister’s Ford Pinto in a street race with a friend. After quickly rising through the local ranks in Southern Wisconsin, Robbie and his father John took the plunge into the world of NASCAR, moving their operation to Denver, North Carolina. After nearly losing everything due to a lack of funding, a series of events led to Robbie putting his former rival from home, Matt Kenseth, behind the wheel. They immediately found harmony and became contenders in the Xfinity Series, where they impressed the likes of Mark Martin and Jack Roush. Before long, the Reiser operation was absorbed by Roush Racing, and they took on the superstars of NASCAR Cup, where they would win a championship in 2003. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
02:06:16
10 May 23
446 - Short Jabs & Directions to Earth
Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns from his broadcasting stint at the Kentucky Derby to reunite with co-host Mike Davis for another episode of Dale Jr. Download. The fans have spoken, and they love what they saw at Kansas Speedway over the weekend from the superstars of NASCAR. Dale and Mike discuss the action and more: Denny Hamlin and Kyle Larson’s last-lap battle Noah Gragson and Ross Chastain’s pit road punch NASCAR’s next potential superstar Dale reports on his Kentucky Derby experience During the Ask Jr. segment, listeners sent in questions regarding: Balancing out-of-the-car obligations on race day What Dale would do if he didn’t get into racing Dale’s favorite, lesser-known music artists Dale’s love for sushi To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
446 - Short Jabs & Directions to Earth
Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns from his broadcasting stint at the Kentucky Derby to reunite with co-host Mike Davis for another episode of Dale Jr. Download. The fans have spoken, and they love what they saw at Kansas Speedway over the weekend from the superstars of NASCAR. Dale and Mike discuss the action and more: Denny Hamlin and Kyle Larson’s last-lap battle Noah Gragson and Ross Chastain’s pit road punch NASCAR’s next potential superstar Dale reports on his Kentucky Derby experience During the Ask Jr. segment, listeners sent in questions regarding: Balancing out-of-the-car obligations on race day What Dale would do if he didn’t get into racing Dale’s favorite, lesser-known music artists Dale’s love for sushi To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:29:06
9 May 23
445 - Please Take My Tumblers
It’s time to wrap up the Dale Jr. Download week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reconvene to react to their interview with Bill Davis, discuss the rules of the Denny Hamlin Bracket Challenge, play another round of games, and recap the Truex brothers’ sweep during NASCAR’s weekend at the Monster Mile. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
445 - Please Take My Tumblers
It’s time to wrap up the Dale Jr. Download week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reconvene to react to their interview with Bill Davis, discuss the rules of the Denny Hamlin Bracket Challenge, play another round of games, and recap the Truex brothers’ sweep during NASCAR’s weekend at the Monster Mile. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:00:34
4 May 23
444 - Bill Davis - An Eye For Talent
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the man behind the famed #22 Caterpillar NASCAR Cup ride, Bill Davis. After helping Mark Martin as he came through the American Speed Association ranks, Bill went on to form a long-running race team that fielded cars in all of NASCAR’s top-three divisions. On the back of his successful Arkansas-based trucking company, Bill first entered the Xfinity Series ranks on a limited basis with Martin behind the wheel. Their quick success proved he had what it took as an owner, and despite Martin having to focus on his Cup racing endeavors, he convinced Bill to move to North Carolina and pursue a full-time chauffeur. Bill explains that the driver he sought out came in the form of Jeff Gordon, who was making the transition from the sprint car world as a promising prospect. He also gives insight to how Gordon’s 1993 departure from the team led to a young Bobby Labonte inquiring about the ride, and how he came to end up fielding the well-known #22 Maxwell House car that was forever associated with Junior Johnson. Download listeners will get a master course in what it is to own a large-scale operation in NASCAR, as Bill details the ebb and flow of his organization and why it came to an end after the 2008 season To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
444 - Bill Davis - An Eye For Talent
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the man behind the famed #22 Caterpillar NASCAR Cup ride, Bill Davis. After helping Mark Martin as he came through the American Speed Association ranks, Bill went on to form a long-running race team that fielded cars in all of NASCAR’s top-three divisions. On the back of his successful Arkansas-based trucking company, Bill first entered the Xfinity Series ranks on a limited basis with Martin behind the wheel. Their quick success proved he had what it took as an owner, and despite Martin having to focus on his Cup racing endeavors, he convinced Bill to move to North Carolina and pursue a full-time chauffeur. Bill explains that the driver he sought out came in the form of Jeff Gordon, who was making the transition from the sprint car world as a promising prospect. He also gives insight to how Gordon’s 1993 departure from the team led to a young Bobby Labonte inquiring about the ride, and how he came to end up fielding the well-known #22 Maxwell House car that was forever associated with Junior Johnson. Download listeners will get a master course in what it is to own a large-scale operation in NASCAR, as Bill details the ebb and flow of his organization and why it came to an end after the 2008 season To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:28:45
3 May 23
443 - Sorry Not Sorry
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles Studio to kick off another week of the Dale Jr. Download. The guys had a wide variety of topics to catch up on and discuss, here’s what was on the docket: Denny Hamlin’s Bracket Challenge (1:30) Dale at the Kentucky Derby (10:45) Mental Health Month (20:12) Isla’s birthday bash When the Download Gang went live on Youtube for Ask Jr., listeners sent in questions regarding: (38:00) Dale’s time with Neil deGrasse Tyson Dale and Mike’s bucket list items Fighting with crew chiefs on the radio Ross Chastain’s on-track aggression To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
443 - Sorry Not Sorry
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles Studio to kick off another week of the Dale Jr. Download. The guys had a wide variety of topics to catch up on and discuss, here’s what was on the docket: Denny Hamlin’s Bracket Challenge (1:30) Dale at the Kentucky Derby (10:45) Mental Health Month (20:12) Isla’s birthday bash When the Download Gang went live on Youtube for Ask Jr., listeners sent in questions regarding: (38:00) Dale’s time with Neil deGrasse Tyson Dale and Mike’s bucket list items Fighting with crew chiefs on the radio Ross Chastain’s on-track aggression To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:01:33
2 May 23
442 - Steve Letarte Brings A Surprise; Amy Takes Dale to Core
Dirty Mo Media worlds are colliding this week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis welcome Dirty Mo Dough host Steve Letarte to the Bojangles Studio. They discuss the sports betting podcast, Steve surprises Dale with a meaningful honor and the guys play a couple rounds of guessing games. Also, Amy joins Dale and Mike to give her account of Dale’s first core class. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
442 - Steve Letarte Brings A Surprise; Amy Takes Dale to Core
Dirty Mo Media worlds are colliding this week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis welcome Dirty Mo Dough host Steve Letarte to the Bojangles Studio. They discuss the sports betting podcast, Steve surprises Dale with a meaningful honor and the guys play a couple rounds of guessing games. Also, Amy joins Dale and Mike to give her account of Dale’s first core class. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:20:50
27 Apr 23
441 - Tony Stewart - Never Say Never
The last time Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sat down with Tony Stewart, he was single and embarking on a 90-plus date sprint car schedule. Now, just four years later he’s happily married, owns an NHRA team, and is a Top-Alcohol Dragster event winner. Tony fills the guys in on his efforts to get in shape and where he and his wife, fellow NHRA competitor Leah Pruett, are thinking of settling down. They also discuss the difficulty of trying to run sprint cars on a part-time basis, and how competitive the dirt ranks have become in recent years. Another new development for Tony was the 2020 formation of the Superstar Racing Experience, in which he won the inaugural points championship. Tony explains the vision behind the racing series, which drivers have impressed him thus far, and where he envisions it going in the future. The interview also covers how Tony and Leah met and how he ended up in the drag racing world. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
441 - Tony Stewart - Never Say Never
The last time Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sat down with Tony Stewart, he was single and embarking on a 90-plus date sprint car schedule. Now, just four years later he’s happily married, owns an NHRA team, and is a Top-Alcohol Dragster event winner. Tony fills the guys in on his efforts to get in shape and where he and his wife, fellow NHRA competitor Leah Pruett, are thinking of settling down. They also discuss the difficulty of trying to run sprint cars on a part-time basis, and how competitive the dirt ranks have become in recent years. Another new development for Tony was the 2020 formation of the Superstar Racing Experience, in which he won the inaugural points championship. Tony explains the vision behind the racing series, which drivers have impressed him thus far, and where he envisions it going in the future. The interview also covers how Tony and Leah met and how he ended up in the drag racing world. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:26:19
26 Apr 23
440 - Don't Touch My A1 Sauce
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis return to the Bojangles Studio for another hot edition of the Dale Jr. Download. NASCAR tackled the treacherous speeds of Talladega, and Dale continued his recent streak of new adventures, so there was plenty to discuss: Dale’s first core class (2:00) The right and wrong time for A.1. Steak Sauce (19:40) Twitter’s blue checkmark debacle (26:50) Ryan Preece and Kyle Larson’s massive crash (32:00) During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding:(49:58) The best meal Dale can cook Who would win Dale and Amy’s beer pong match-up When Dale went blonde Dale and Amy’s first date To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
440 - Don't Touch My A1 Sauce
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis return to the Bojangles Studio for another hot edition of the Dale Jr. Download. NASCAR tackled the treacherous speeds of Talladega, and Dale continued his recent streak of new adventures, so there was plenty to discuss: Dale’s first core class (2:00) The right and wrong time for A.1. Steak Sauce (19:40) Twitter’s blue checkmark debacle (26:50) Ryan Preece and Kyle Larson’s massive crash (32:00) During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding:(49:58) The best meal Dale can cook Who would win Dale and Amy’s beer pong match-up When Dale went blonde Dale and Amy’s first date To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:04:55
25 Apr 23
439 - Dale Jr. and Amy Try an Ice Bath
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by his wife Amy and co-host Mike Davis to further discuss his recent adventure in cryotherapy. Amy arrives early to give her perspective on their date to the “cold box”, and then they fill listeners in on how it compared to their recent homemade ice bath. In solidarity, Mike spills the beans on what really happened at the end of his Grand Canyon vacation and the guys play a couple more rounds of tic-tac-toe. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
439 - Dale Jr. and Amy Try an Ice Bath
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by his wife Amy and co-host Mike Davis to further discuss his recent adventure in cryotherapy. Amy arrives early to give her perspective on their date to the “cold box”, and then they fill listeners in on how it compared to their recent homemade ice bath. In solidarity, Mike spills the beans on what really happened at the end of his Grand Canyon vacation and the guys play a couple more rounds of tic-tac-toe. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:12:01
20 Apr 23
438 - Hut Stricklin - Helmet in Hand, Always Ready
It was a reunion of the “8’s” this week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sat down with longtime NASCAR Cup racer Hut Stricklin. After rising through the ranks of the NASCAR Dash Series, Stricklin went on to race for legendary car owners like Rod Osterlund, Bobby Allison, and Junior Johnson before arriving in the famed Stavola Brothers number-8. He would occupy the ride until 1998, and shortly after the team would dissolve, with the number 8 being sold off to Dale Earnhardt Inc. to prepare for Dale Jr.’s 1999 Cup debut. Hut explains how he cut his teeth in the Alabama short-track racing scene, following in his father’s footsteps. They discuss how a chance encounter while driving around in Panama City would lead to Hut meeting his longtime wife Pam, daughter of racing legend Donnie Allison. Hut also fills listeners in on some of his favorite rides in Cup, how he became Tom Cruise's driving coach for the movie Days of Thunder, the story behind his career-best run at the 1996 Southern 500, and why he decided to walk away from the sport after the 2002 Bristol night race. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
438 - Hut Stricklin - Helmet in Hand, Always Ready
It was a reunion of the “8’s” this week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sat down with longtime NASCAR Cup racer Hut Stricklin. After rising through the ranks of the NASCAR Dash Series, Stricklin went on to race for legendary car owners like Rod Osterlund, Bobby Allison, and Junior Johnson before arriving in the famed Stavola Brothers number-8. He would occupy the ride until 1998, and shortly after the team would dissolve, with the number 8 being sold off to Dale Earnhardt Inc. to prepare for Dale Jr.’s 1999 Cup debut. Hut explains how he cut his teeth in the Alabama short-track racing scene, following in his father’s footsteps. They discuss how a chance encounter while driving around in Panama City would lead to Hut meeting his longtime wife Pam, daughter of racing legend Donnie Allison. Hut also fills listeners in on some of his favorite rides in Cup, how he became Tom Cruise's driving coach for the movie Days of Thunder, the story behind his career-best run at the 1996 Southern 500, and why he decided to walk away from the sport after the 2002 Bristol night race. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
02:14:27
19 Apr 23
437 - Cryotherapy, Canyon Camping, & Fixing Martinsville
After a week’s vacation, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles Studio for some Dirty Air. Mike details his trip to the Grand Canyon with his family, and Dale Jr. chimes in about his trip to the beach in Texas to visit family. They also discuss: Dale and Amy’s recent adventure in cryotherapy Attending a Charlotte Football Club event How the new short track package delivered at Martinsville What short-term changes can be made to brakes and tires When the gang went live on Youtube, listeners sent in questions about: Talladega infield parties Best girl dad advice The most popular drivers in Cup today Favorite non-racing athletes To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
437 - Cryotherapy, Canyon Camping, & Fixing Martinsville
After a week’s vacation, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles Studio for some Dirty Air. Mike details his trip to the Grand Canyon with his family, and Dale Jr. chimes in about his trip to the beach in Texas to visit family. They also discuss: Dale and Amy’s recent adventure in cryotherapy Attending a Charlotte Football Club event How the new short track package delivered at Martinsville What short-term changes can be made to brakes and tires When the gang went live on Youtube, listeners sent in questions about: Talladega infield parties Best girl dad advice The most popular drivers in Cup today Favorite non-racing athletes To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:10:23
18 Apr 23
436 - The Business of Motorsports - Part II
It’s time once again to talk dollars and cents (and sense..) as Kelley Earnhardt Miller is back in the Bojangles Studio for the second edition of the Business of Motorsports. On this episode, she is joined by co-host Mike Davis and the President/CEO of Speedways Motorsports Inc., Marcus Smith. While Marcus has been a recurring guest on the Dale Jr. Download, this interview dives more into the nuts and bolts of how speedways operate and his business philosophy. Marcus discussed his path up the ladder at SMI and imparted advice he received from his father Bruton and former President of Charlotte Motor Speedway Humpy Wheeler. He also chats about the research that goes into keeping racing fans happy, the process of making the NASCAR schedule, track reconfigurations, and the speedways’ perspective in the ongoing negotiations surrounding the next NASCAR broadcasting deal. Listeners can expect to hear some updates on the NASCAR All-Star weekend at North Wilkesboro and what the future may hold for the legendary track. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
436 - The Business of Motorsports - Part II
It’s time once again to talk dollars and cents (and sense..) as Kelley Earnhardt Miller is back in the Bojangles Studio for the second edition of the Business of Motorsports. On this episode, she is joined by co-host Mike Davis and the President/CEO of Speedways Motorsports Inc., Marcus Smith. While Marcus has been a recurring guest on the Dale Jr. Download, this interview dives more into the nuts and bolts of how speedways operate and his business philosophy. Marcus discussed his path up the ladder at SMI and imparted advice he received from his father Bruton and former President of Charlotte Motor Speedway Humpy Wheeler. He also chats about the research that goes into keeping racing fans happy, the process of making the NASCAR schedule, track reconfigurations, and the speedways’ perspective in the ongoing negotiations surrounding the next NASCAR broadcasting deal. Listeners can expect to hear some updates on the NASCAR All-Star weekend at North Wilkesboro and what the future may hold for the legendary track. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:51:41
11 Apr 23
435 - The Intimidator Stories That Left Dale Jr. and Mike Shocked
As things wind down for the week of Dirty Mo Media programming, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reunite to examine their illuminating interview with Tony Furr. They discuss how Tony’s insight painted a unique picture of Dale Earnhardt Sr., and detailed a lot of experiences that likely helped mold him into one of stock car racing’s greatest drivers. They also preview next week’s Business in Motorsports installment with Kelley Earnhardt-Miller and Marcus Smith, and Dale sets out to even the score with Mike in another round of tic-tac-toe. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
435 - The Intimidator Stories That Left Dale Jr. and Mike Shocked
As things wind down for the week of Dirty Mo Media programming, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reunite to examine their illuminating interview with Tony Furr. They discuss how Tony’s insight painted a unique picture of Dale Earnhardt Sr., and detailed a lot of experiences that likely helped mold him into one of stock car racing’s greatest drivers. They also preview next week’s Business in Motorsports installment with Kelley Earnhardt-Miller and Marcus Smith, and Dale sets out to even the score with Mike in another round of tic-tac-toe. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
44:52
6 Apr 23
434 - Tony Furr - Slightly, Politely, All Nightly
Fans of Earnhardt family folklore are in for a treat today as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with longtime NASCAR garage fixture Tony Furr. While Furr worked as crew chief in the NASCAR ranks for several years and has a couple of wins to his credit, his roots rest in the Carolina red clay’s competitive short track ranks. They chat at length about Tony’s father Henry, who had a long legacy as an influential race promoter at both Concord Speedways and Metrolina. As Tony grew up helping out in his father’s endeavors, he eventually took over his fleet of Ford and Dodge late models and went on to field entries for some of the best racers in the Carolinas, including none other than Dale Earnhardt Sr. Tony provides listeners with a unique look at the humble beginnings of Dale Sr.’s legendary race career and the struggles they faced as a team. After finding his way into the NASCAR Cup garage through stints at Hendrick Motorsports and Cale Yarborough Motorsports, Tony became known for his “innovation” on cars, and faced a few hefty penalties throughout the years. The interview digs deep into some of the “developments” that landed Tony in hot water, and a few that may have slipped under the radar. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
434 - Tony Furr - Slightly, Politely, All Nightly
Fans of Earnhardt family folklore are in for a treat today as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with longtime NASCAR garage fixture Tony Furr. While Furr worked as crew chief in the NASCAR ranks for several years and has a couple of wins to his credit, his roots rest in the Carolina red clay’s competitive short track ranks. They chat at length about Tony’s father Henry, who had a long legacy as an influential race promoter at both Concord Speedways and Metrolina. As Tony grew up helping out in his father’s endeavors, he eventually took over his fleet of Ford and Dodge late models and went on to field entries for some of the best racers in the Carolinas, including none other than Dale Earnhardt Sr. Tony provides listeners with a unique look at the humble beginnings of Dale Sr.’s legendary race career and the struggles they faced as a team. After finding his way into the NASCAR Cup garage through stints at Hendrick Motorsports and Cale Yarborough Motorsports, Tony became known for his “innovation” on cars, and faced a few hefty penalties throughout the years. The interview digs deep into some of the “developments” that landed Tony in hot water, and a few that may have slipped under the radar. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:42:40
5 Apr 23
433 - Drivers Need Glasses
It’s time once again to kick off the Dale Jr. Download week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio for some Dirty Air. Penalties were repealed and the famed Richmond Raceway delivered, and the guys had reactions to all of it: Dale found his first late-model stock car win trophy Hendrick Motorsports penalty is amended (8:35) Josh Berry impressed with a 2nd place run (25:30) Are there fewer consequences with the NextGen car? (36:53) During the fan favorite Ask Jr. segment, (46:48) listeners sent in questions about: Dale’s “Welcome to NASCAR” moment NASCAR racing overseas again Best post-win party Best prank To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
433 - Drivers Need Glasses
It’s time once again to kick off the Dale Jr. Download week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio for some Dirty Air. Penalties were repealed and the famed Richmond Raceway delivered, and the guys had reactions to all of it: Dale found his first late-model stock car win trophy Hendrick Motorsports penalty is amended (8:35) Josh Berry impressed with a 2nd place run (25:30) Are there fewer consequences with the NextGen car? (36:53) During the fan favorite Ask Jr. segment, (46:48) listeners sent in questions about: Dale’s “Welcome to NASCAR” moment NASCAR racing overseas again Best post-win party Best prank To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:11:10
4 Apr 23
432 - Respect is the Name, Carnage is the Game
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back to close out the week and debrief their discussion with Chip Ganassi. They comment on how open Chip was and how he indicated that he wouldn’t be opposed to a return to NASCAR if the right opportunity presented itself. They also speak on what they learned about Chip’s relationships with his drivers outside of racing, as well as his perspective on the Ganassi Racing/Dale Earnhardt Inc. merger of 2009. Driver comments about respect and aggression in the NASCAR field are examined, and the guys strap in for another round of tic-tac-toe. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
432 - Respect is the Name, Carnage is the Game
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back to close out the week and debrief their discussion with Chip Ganassi. They comment on how open Chip was and how he indicated that he wouldn’t be opposed to a return to NASCAR if the right opportunity presented itself. They also speak on what they learned about Chip’s relationships with his drivers outside of racing, as well as his perspective on the Ganassi Racing/Dale Earnhardt Inc. merger of 2009. Driver comments about respect and aggression in the NASCAR field are examined, and the guys strap in for another round of tic-tac-toe. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:01:44
30 Mar 23
431 - Chip Ganassi - I Like Winners
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sat down this week with one of the most accomplished car owners in motorsports history: Chip Ganassi. After finding his way into the world of auto racing through slot cars and dirt bikes, Chip built his own team and established a championship-winning culture that would deliver victories in every major event in the sport, as well as countless season titles across multiple disciplines. The interview discusses Chip’s upbringing and career behind the wheel at large, which saw him rise from the Formula Ford division to being the most improved driver in CART in 1983. Chip details his horrific crash at Michigan International Speedway in 1984 that made doctors fear for the worse and sidelined him for six months. He explains it was during his recuperation that he figured out his next move, and before the age of 30, he bought into Patrick Racing. In 1990, the team officially became Chip Ganassi Racing, and as they say, the rest is history. Chip’s team has been one of the most dominant forces in American championship car racing over the last 30 years and has grown to have a significant presence in NASCAR and sports car competition as well. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
431 - Chip Ganassi - I Like Winners
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sat down this week with one of the most accomplished car owners in motorsports history: Chip Ganassi. After finding his way into the world of auto racing through slot cars and dirt bikes, Chip built his own team and established a championship-winning culture that would deliver victories in every major event in the sport, as well as countless season titles across multiple disciplines. The interview discusses Chip’s upbringing and career behind the wheel at large, which saw him rise from the Formula Ford division to being the most improved driver in CART in 1983. Chip details his horrific crash at Michigan International Speedway in 1984 that made doctors fear for the worse and sidelined him for six months. He explains it was during his recuperation that he figured out his next move, and before the age of 30, he bought into Patrick Racing. In 1990, the team officially became Chip Ganassi Racing, and as they say, the rest is history. Chip’s team has been one of the most dominant forces in American championship car racing over the last 30 years and has grown to have a significant presence in NASCAR and sports car competition as well. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:55:13
29 Mar 23
430 - Snakes, Snacks, & Stage Breaks
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis had a ton to talk about in the Bojangles Studio today as they kicked off another week of the Dale Jr Download. The sun has set on one of the most compelling NASCAR Cup races to date, as the stars of stock car racing took on drivers from the Formula One, IMSA, and IndyCar ranks at Circuit of the Americas this past weekend. The Download crew discussed: Favorite nostalgic snacks No stage breaks at COTA Late race cautions Road course ringers’ response to the physicality of Cup racing During the fan favorite Ask Jr. segment, listeners wrote in questions about: What format should NASCAR use at the All-Star race at North Wilkesboro? Thoughts on Kurt Busch’s emotional comments in the broadcast booth Getting a song stuck in your head during a race To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
430 - Snakes, Snacks, & Stage Breaks
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis had a ton to talk about in the Bojangles Studio today as they kicked off another week of the Dale Jr Download. The sun has set on one of the most compelling NASCAR Cup races to date, as the stars of stock car racing took on drivers from the Formula One, IMSA, and IndyCar ranks at Circuit of the Americas this past weekend. The Download crew discussed: Favorite nostalgic snacks No stage breaks at COTA Late race cautions Road course ringers’ response to the physicality of Cup racing During the fan favorite Ask Jr. segment, listeners wrote in questions about: What format should NASCAR use at the All-Star race at North Wilkesboro? Thoughts on Kurt Busch’s emotional comments in the broadcast booth Getting a song stuck in your head during a race To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:02:13
28 Mar 23
429 - Top Dale Sr. Moments Bracket & Mike's Signature Victory
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reconvened in the Bojangles Studio to discuss their episode 428 interview with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Dale explains that Ricky at age 35 is likely just now getting into his prime as a racer, and a high-profile win like the Daytona 500 can do a lot to boost a driver’s career. They also break down the incredibly diverse field for this weekend’s NASCAR Cup race at Circuit of the Americas, run through a new Earnhardt-centric tournament bracket and introduce a new segment called “Guess the Driver.” To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
429 - Top Dale Sr. Moments Bracket & Mike's Signature Victory
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reconvened in the Bojangles Studio to discuss their episode 428 interview with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Dale explains that Ricky at age 35 is likely just now getting into his prime as a racer, and a high-profile win like the Daytona 500 can do a lot to boost a driver’s career. They also break down the incredibly diverse field for this weekend’s NASCAR Cup race at Circuit of the Americas, run through a new Earnhardt-centric tournament bracket and introduce a new segment called “Guess the Driver.” To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
45:17
23 Mar 23
428 - Ricky Stenhouse Jr. - Welcome To The Daytona 500 Club
The Bojangles Studio was filled with Daytona 500 winners this week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sat down with Cup racer Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Ricky started the 2023 season off with a bang by capturing the win in the 65th running of the Great American Race. The interview takes a look at how Ricky came from humble beginnings in Mississippi, working on his father’s sprint car team to becoming a back-to-back champion in the Xfinity Series and winning the crown jewel event in stock car racing. After a stellar year in the dirt racing world, Ricky was propelled into the mainstream racing scene when he signed a development deal with Roush Racing in 2008. He fills listeners in on what his time was like with the organization and the story of his unexpected departure after the 2019 season. He also provides insight to what it's like being on a single-car team at JTG Daugherty Racing in the NextGen era. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
428 - Ricky Stenhouse Jr. - Welcome To The Daytona 500 Club
The Bojangles Studio was filled with Daytona 500 winners this week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sat down with Cup racer Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Ricky started the 2023 season off with a bang by capturing the win in the 65th running of the Great American Race. The interview takes a look at how Ricky came from humble beginnings in Mississippi, working on his father’s sprint car team to becoming a back-to-back champion in the Xfinity Series and winning the crown jewel event in stock car racing. After a stellar year in the dirt racing world, Ricky was propelled into the mainstream racing scene when he signed a development deal with Roush Racing in 2008. He fills listeners in on what his time was like with the organization and the story of his unexpected departure after the 2019 season. He also provides insight to what it's like being on a single-car team at JTG Daugherty Racing in the NextGen era. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:36:47
22 Mar 23
427 - Vacation From The Vacation
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back for another edition of the Dale Jr. Download. After NASCAR tackled the high banks of Atlanta and the chaotic news cycle continued, there was a lot for the Download crew to discuss: Vacation from the vacation (1:00) Denny Hamlin, Hendrick Motorsports, and Kaulig Racing are all appealing their penalties (18:00) Josh Williams stopped the show at Atlanta (literally..) (30:25) Corey LaJoie and Spire Motorsports continue to impress (41:38) When the crew turned the floor over to listeners on Youtube live, they sent in questions regarding: (53:46) What actually happens in the NASCAR hauler? Using code words on the team radio How Dale’s journey to learning the guitar is going Getting a NextGen car for the car graveyard To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
427 - Vacation From The Vacation
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back for another edition of the Dale Jr. Download. After NASCAR tackled the high banks of Atlanta and the chaotic news cycle continued, there was a lot for the Download crew to discuss: Vacation from the vacation (1:00) Denny Hamlin, Hendrick Motorsports, and Kaulig Racing are all appealing their penalties (18:00) Josh Williams stopped the show at Atlanta (literally..) (30:25) Corey LaJoie and Spire Motorsports continue to impress (41:38) When the crew turned the floor over to listeners on Youtube live, they sent in questions regarding: (53:46) What actually happens in the NASCAR hauler? Using code words on the team radio How Dale’s journey to learning the guitar is going Getting a NextGen car for the car graveyard To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:14:10
21 Mar 23
426 - Reaction to the Denny Hamlin & Hendrick Motorsports Penalties
Dale Earnhardt Jr. returned to the Bojangles Studio and joined co-host Mike Davis to comment on this week’s major announcements in the NASCAR world. They discuss the penalties issued to Hendrick Motorsports and Kaulig Racing over modified louvers from the Phoenix tech process, and what may have led to the teams tampering with the parts.(3:40) They also unpack the penalty and fine issued to Denny Hamlin over comments he made on Monday’s episode of Actions Detrimental, and deliberate why such punishments could stifle drivers’ willingness to speak openly and transparently in the future. (24:51) Plus they preview this week's upcoming race at Atlanta (43:51) and fill out a fun bracket in honor of March Madness. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
426 - Reaction to the Denny Hamlin & Hendrick Motorsports Penalties
Dale Earnhardt Jr. returned to the Bojangles Studio and joined co-host Mike Davis to comment on this week’s major announcements in the NASCAR world. They discuss the penalties issued to Hendrick Motorsports and Kaulig Racing over modified louvers from the Phoenix tech process, and what may have led to the teams tampering with the parts.(3:40) They also unpack the penalty and fine issued to Denny Hamlin over comments he made on Monday’s episode of Actions Detrimental, and deliberate why such punishments could stifle drivers’ willingness to speak openly and transparently in the future. (24:51) Plus they preview this week's upcoming race at Atlanta (43:51) and fill out a fun bracket in honor of March Madness. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:17:25
16 Mar 23
425 - The Business of Motorsports - Part I
Dirty Mo Media is proud to bring you a new Dale Jr. Download series called “Business of Motorsports”, featuring Kelley Earnhardt Miller. For the first installment, Kelley and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the President of 23XI Racing Steve Lauletta. Lauletta worked for many years in the sports marketing department for the Miller Brewing Company before serving as the President of Chip Ganassi Racing for over a decade. Kelley and Steve discuss what the day-to-day life for the president of a NASCAR Cup team looks like, as well as the culture at 23XI Racing. Steve explains the steps the company has taken in its hiring process to ensure a unique approach to building a brand and a successful race team. They also discuss how they keep their sponsors involved with team activities and how they sell their employees on the company’s vision. Plus Steve talks about NASCAR's current charter system and the struggles or positives aspiring Cup Series teams, like JR Motorsports, face when deciding to buy a charter. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
425 - The Business of Motorsports - Part I
Dirty Mo Media is proud to bring you a new Dale Jr. Download series called “Business of Motorsports”, featuring Kelley Earnhardt Miller. For the first installment, Kelley and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the President of 23XI Racing Steve Lauletta. Lauletta worked for many years in the sports marketing department for the Miller Brewing Company before serving as the President of Chip Ganassi Racing for over a decade. Kelley and Steve discuss what the day-to-day life for the president of a NASCAR Cup team looks like, as well as the culture at 23XI Racing. Steve explains the steps the company has taken in its hiring process to ensure a unique approach to building a brand and a successful race team. They also discuss how they keep their sponsors involved with team activities and how they sell their employees on the company’s vision. Plus Steve talks about NASCAR's current charter system and the struggles or positives aspiring Cup Series teams, like JR Motorsports, face when deciding to buy a charter. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:20:09
16 Mar 23
424 - Calm Down, Phoenix Gonna Phoenix
Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins co-host Mike Davis via Zoom from his family vacation for this week’s edition of Dirty Air. The NASCAR world has concluded their west coast swing and there was plenty to unpack: Denny Hamlin speaks candidly about his dust-up with Ross Chastain JR Motorsports’ turbulent Xfinity race at Phoenix NASCAR confiscates louvers from Hendrick Motorsports and Kaulig Racing NASCAR’s new short track package gets its first test During the Ask Jr. segment, listeners sent in questions regarding: (36:30) Competing against IndyCar racers on iRacing The worst car Dale ever won with His March Madness bracket The weekend controversy at Hickory Motor Speedway To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
424 - Calm Down, Phoenix Gonna Phoenix
Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins co-host Mike Davis via Zoom from his family vacation for this week’s edition of Dirty Air. The NASCAR world has concluded their west coast swing and there was plenty to unpack: Denny Hamlin speaks candidly about his dust-up with Ross Chastain JR Motorsports’ turbulent Xfinity race at Phoenix NASCAR confiscates louvers from Hendrick Motorsports and Kaulig Racing NASCAR’s new short track package gets its first test During the Ask Jr. segment, listeners sent in questions regarding: (36:30) Competing against IndyCar racers on iRacing The worst car Dale ever won with His March Madness bracket The weekend controversy at Hickory Motor Speedway To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
57:59
14 Mar 23
423 - Are We Going to Le Mans?!; Reaction to Tyler Reddick's New Approach to Life
As the quest continues to find a name for the Thursday edition of the Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis return to the Bojangles Studio to debrief their episode 422 interview with Tyler Reddick.(2:35) Dale provided interesting insight into the journey of up-and-coming racers, and how sometimes it’s not enough to simply just be talented behind the wheel. The Short Track Insider is back to break down the grassroots racing world’s weekend events and help anticipate the upcoming season opener for the CARS Tour. (17:30) The guys also debut a new segment called “It’s Viral”, reacting to buzzworthy news items and relating their own personal experiences to the situations. (24:54) Plus Dale and Mike mull over their invite to do a Dale Jr. Download LIVE from the 24 hours of Le Mans. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
423 - Are We Going to Le Mans?!; Reaction to Tyler Reddick's New Approach to Life
As the quest continues to find a name for the Thursday edition of the Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis return to the Bojangles Studio to debrief their episode 422 interview with Tyler Reddick.(2:35) Dale provided interesting insight into the journey of up-and-coming racers, and how sometimes it’s not enough to simply just be talented behind the wheel. The Short Track Insider is back to break down the grassroots racing world’s weekend events and help anticipate the upcoming season opener for the CARS Tour. (17:30) The guys also debut a new segment called “It’s Viral”, reacting to buzzworthy news items and relating their own personal experiences to the situations. (24:54) Plus Dale and Mike mull over their invite to do a Dale Jr. Download LIVE from the 24 hours of Le Mans. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
47:58
9 Mar 23
422 - Tyler Reddick - A New Approach to Life
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the driver of 23XI’s number-45 NASCAR Cup ride Tyler Reddick on episode 422 of the Dale Jr. Download. After impressing in the NASCAR Truck ranks driving for Brad Keselowski Racing and winning his first Xfinity Series race for Chip Ganassi Racing in 2017, Reddick took over the JR Motorsports number-9 for William Byron. He would win the 2018 season opener at Daytona and go on to capture the points championship while locking up Rookie of the Year honors. The guys chat about how fatherhood has changed Tyler’s approach to life, and how he became a more focused, hard-working version of himself. Dale also asks for Tyler’s opinion on the recently announced new NextGen short track package for the 2023 season. Other topics of discussion also include Tyler’s transition from Richard Childress Racing to 23XI, how he feels about seeing Kyle Busch in his former car, and what a weekly routine for a NASCAR Cup driver looks like. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
422 - Tyler Reddick - A New Approach to Life
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the driver of 23XI’s number-45 NASCAR Cup ride Tyler Reddick on episode 422 of the Dale Jr. Download. After impressing in the NASCAR Truck ranks driving for Brad Keselowski Racing and winning his first Xfinity Series race for Chip Ganassi Racing in 2017, Reddick took over the JR Motorsports number-9 for William Byron. He would win the 2018 season opener at Daytona and go on to capture the points championship while locking up Rookie of the Year honors. The guys chat about how fatherhood has changed Tyler’s approach to life, and how he became a more focused, hard-working version of himself. Dale also asks for Tyler’s opinion on the recently announced new NextGen short track package for the 2023 season. Other topics of discussion also include Tyler’s transition from Richard Childress Racing to 23XI, how he feels about seeing Kyle Busch in his former car, and what a weekly routine for a NASCAR Cup driver looks like. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:20:10
8 Mar 23
421 - A Dream Opportunity
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis have reunited in the Bojangles Studio to kick off a great week of the Dale Jr. Download. After a weekend that saw breaking news out of the NASCAR world, the guys unpack: Beach trip expectations and preferences (1:00) Are the NASCAR on Fox driver animations changing? (13:37) Chase Elliott’s snowboarding injury (17:10) Josh Berry’s big opportunity (31:20) When the Download gang hopped on Youtube Live to for Ask Jr., (44:07) listeners sent in questions about: Former drivers in race director positions What it's like having a driver sub in for you The angriest Dale has ever been at another driver To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
421 - A Dream Opportunity
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis have reunited in the Bojangles Studio to kick off a great week of the Dale Jr. Download. After a weekend that saw breaking news out of the NASCAR world, the guys unpack: Beach trip expectations and preferences (1:00) Are the NASCAR on Fox driver animations changing? (13:37) Chase Elliott’s snowboarding injury (17:10) Josh Berry’s big opportunity (31:20) When the Download gang hopped on Youtube Live to for Ask Jr., (44:07) listeners sent in questions about: Former drivers in race director positions What it's like having a driver sub in for you The angriest Dale has ever been at another driver To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:05:48
7 Mar 23
420 - Scott Dixon is a Living Legend; Dirty Mo Ultimate Experience Preview
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back to discuss their episode 419 interview with six-time IndyCar Champion and 2008 Indianapolis 500 winner Scott Dixon. (2:00) They also discuss the revitalization of NASCAR RaceDay Live, which is to be hosted by Kenny Wallace at the upcoming Bristol Dirt Race. (8:45) Dale Jr. announces a new partnership between iRacing and the CARS Tour (11:45) and Hannah Newhouse is back with this week’s edition of “Short Track Insider”(16:32). Also, Mike gives listeners a preview of what to expect at the upcoming Dirty Mo Ultimate Experience at Las Vegas. (21:20) To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
420 - Scott Dixon is a Living Legend; Dirty Mo Ultimate Experience Preview
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back to discuss their episode 419 interview with six-time IndyCar Champion and 2008 Indianapolis 500 winner Scott Dixon. (2:00) They also discuss the revitalization of NASCAR RaceDay Live, which is to be hosted by Kenny Wallace at the upcoming Bristol Dirt Race. (8:45) Dale Jr. announces a new partnership between iRacing and the CARS Tour (11:45) and Hannah Newhouse is back with this week’s edition of “Short Track Insider”(16:32). Also, Mike gives listeners a preview of what to expect at the upcoming Dirty Mo Ultimate Experience at Las Vegas. (21:20) To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
33:37
2 Mar 23
419 - Scott Dixon - The Unconventional Road to Indy
The Bojangles Studio is graced by IndyCar royalty this week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his co-host Mike Davis sit down with Scott Dixon. Since emerging on the American open-wheel racing scene in 1999, Dixon has written his name into the history books (between Foyt and Andretti, mind you) by winning six IndyCar championships, 52 races, and the 2008 Indianapolis 500. The interview covers Scott’s early life and introduction to auto racing, which came thanks to his father’s own racing endeavors and the family promoting a dirt track in Townsville, Australia. Dixon seemed destined for success as he won his way through the kart and lower Formula ranks in Australia and New Zealand, but with every progression came exponential budget growth. As his parents had already mortgaged their home to support his racing endeavors, his father and some local businessmen started an investment corporation that would sell shares of Scott’s potential career earnings to help keep him on track. The result was Dixon moving stateside in the late 90s, wowing Stefan Johansson in a test at Sebring and taking a seat in the Indy Lights Series, where he would win the championship in resounding fashion in 2000, beginning his dominance in American open-wheel racing. The interview also discusses Scott’s tenure at Chip Ganassi Racing, his family life, and the comparability of stock cars and championship cars. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
419 - Scott Dixon - The Unconventional Road to Indy
The Bojangles Studio is graced by IndyCar royalty this week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his co-host Mike Davis sit down with Scott Dixon. Since emerging on the American open-wheel racing scene in 1999, Dixon has written his name into the history books (between Foyt and Andretti, mind you) by winning six IndyCar championships, 52 races, and the 2008 Indianapolis 500. The interview covers Scott’s early life and introduction to auto racing, which came thanks to his father’s own racing endeavors and the family promoting a dirt track in Townsville, Australia. Dixon seemed destined for success as he won his way through the kart and lower Formula ranks in Australia and New Zealand, but with every progression came exponential budget growth. As his parents had already mortgaged their home to support his racing endeavors, his father and some local businessmen started an investment corporation that would sell shares of Scott’s potential career earnings to help keep him on track. The result was Dixon moving stateside in the late 90s, wowing Stefan Johansson in a test at Sebring and taking a seat in the Indy Lights Series, where he would win the championship in resounding fashion in 2000, beginning his dominance in American open-wheel racing. The interview also discusses Scott’s tenure at Chip Ganassi Racing, his family life, and the comparability of stock cars and championship cars. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:46:07
1 Mar 23
418 - The Future of Fontana; Kyle Busch is a Fan Favorite
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his co-host Mike Davis are reunited in the Bojangles Studio and it's time for another episode of the Dale Jr. Download. On this week’s edition of Dirty Air, the guys discuss: How to deal with parenting frustrations (2:00) The final NASCAR Cup race at the 2-mile Fontana (12:50) Possible reconfigurations of the track Kyle Busch and Richard Childress Racing’s strong 2023 start (32:30) When the line of questioning was turned over to the listeners on Youtube Live for Ask Jr., they sent in questions about: (54:10) If social media existed in the early 2000s Who inspired Dale when he was growing up The best concerts Dale has ever been to Naming race cars To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
418 - The Future of Fontana; Kyle Busch is a Fan Favorite
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his co-host Mike Davis are reunited in the Bojangles Studio and it's time for another episode of the Dale Jr. Download. On this week’s edition of Dirty Air, the guys discuss: How to deal with parenting frustrations (2:00) The final NASCAR Cup race at the 2-mile Fontana (12:50) Possible reconfigurations of the track Kyle Busch and Richard Childress Racing’s strong 2023 start (32:30) When the line of questioning was turned over to the listeners on Youtube Live for Ask Jr., they sent in questions about: (54:10) If social media existed in the early 2000s Who inspired Dale when he was growing up The best concerts Dale has ever been to Naming race cars To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:18:12
28 Feb 23
417 - Dale Jr & Kelley React to Jeffrey’s Visit & Dale Gets Quizzed By Amy
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is once again joined in the studio by his sister Kelley Earnhardt-Miller where they react to the episode 416 chat with their nephew Jeffrey Earnhardt. (3:00) Due to popular demand, the segment where Dale is quizzed on how well he knows his wife Amy is brought back for another round of questions. (9:20) Dale, Kelley, and producer Alex Timms share their most recent playlist song additions. (18:26) A new segment centered on short-track racing is introduced featuring Hannah Newhouse. (22:55) To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
417 - Dale Jr & Kelley React to Jeffrey’s Visit & Dale Gets Quizzed By Amy
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is once again joined in the studio by his sister Kelley Earnhardt-Miller where they react to the episode 416 chat with their nephew Jeffrey Earnhardt. (3:00) Due to popular demand, the segment where Dale is quizzed on how well he knows his wife Amy is brought back for another round of questions. (9:20) Dale, Kelley, and producer Alex Timms share their most recent playlist song additions. (18:26) A new segment centered on short-track racing is introduced featuring Hannah Newhouse. (22:55) To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
31:49
23 Feb 23
416 - Jeffrey Earnhardt - Paving My Own Way
On this episode of the Dale Jr. Download, it’s an Earnhardt family reunion as Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined in the Bojangles Studio by his sister Kelley Earnhardt Miller and their nephew Jeffrey Earnhardt. Jeffrey made headlines in the stock car racing world last April when he piloted the Richard Childress No. 3 that his grandfather Dale made famous to a second-place finish in the Xfinity race at Talladega. The interview discusses his time spent in the NASCAR ranks over the last 16 years and the path that has led him to be in a full-time ride in the Xfinity Series, driving the No. 44 Chevy entry for Alpha Prime Racing. While he is an Earnhardt, Jeffrey has made it a point to earn his opportunities in racing based on hard work and merit, not his namesake. As a result, he’s followed a winding, sometimes turbulent road through the motorsports world. He provides great insight to listeners on the differences between top-dollar teams and smaller operations in NASCAR, and what he’s learned from his time spent with both. The Earnhardt family dynamic is also a topic of discussion, as well as Jeffrey’s memories of Dale Sr. and his relationship with his father Kerry. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
416 - Jeffrey Earnhardt - Paving My Own Way
On this episode of the Dale Jr. Download, it’s an Earnhardt family reunion as Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined in the Bojangles Studio by his sister Kelley Earnhardt Miller and their nephew Jeffrey Earnhardt. Jeffrey made headlines in the stock car racing world last April when he piloted the Richard Childress No. 3 that his grandfather Dale made famous to a second-place finish in the Xfinity race at Talladega. The interview discusses his time spent in the NASCAR ranks over the last 16 years and the path that has led him to be in a full-time ride in the Xfinity Series, driving the No. 44 Chevy entry for Alpha Prime Racing. While he is an Earnhardt, Jeffrey has made it a point to earn his opportunities in racing based on hard work and merit, not his namesake. As a result, he’s followed a winding, sometimes turbulent road through the motorsports world. He provides great insight to listeners on the differences between top-dollar teams and smaller operations in NASCAR, and what he’s learned from his time spent with both. The Earnhardt family dynamic is also a topic of discussion, as well as Jeffrey’s memories of Dale Sr. and his relationship with his father Kerry. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:07:56
22 Feb 23
415 - Recapping the Daytona 500 with Steve Letarte
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by his fellow NBC commentator and host of Dirty Mo Dough, Steve Letarte this week for episode 415 of the Dale Jr. Download. The guys have a lot to unpack from the Daytona 500 weekend, and topics of discussion include: Stenhouse’s big victory (3:19) Stock car racing is growing in the right direction (31:18) Race broadcast frustrations (9:28) JR Motorsports’ Daytona Recap (40:00) Previewing Fontana (49:52) When the Download crew plugged into Youtube Live for Ask Jr, listeners sent in questions regarding: (56:13) Driver-to-driver radio communication during races The new driver-eye cameras Dale running the All-Star race at North Wilkesboro Jimmie Johnson and Travis Pastrana’s Daytona runs The prospect of hosting Saturday Night Live To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
415 - Recapping the Daytona 500 with Steve Letarte
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by his fellow NBC commentator and host of Dirty Mo Dough, Steve Letarte this week for episode 415 of the Dale Jr. Download. The guys have a lot to unpack from the Daytona 500 weekend, and topics of discussion include: Stenhouse’s big victory (3:19) Stock car racing is growing in the right direction (31:18) Race broadcast frustrations (9:28) JR Motorsports’ Daytona Recap (40:00) Previewing Fontana (49:52) When the Download crew plugged into Youtube Live for Ask Jr, listeners sent in questions regarding: (56:13) Driver-to-driver radio communication during races The new driver-eye cameras Dale running the All-Star race at North Wilkesboro Jimmie Johnson and Travis Pastrana’s Daytona runs The prospect of hosting Saturday Night Live To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:16:09
21 Feb 23
414 - Daytona 500 Preview and Reaction to our Steve Hmiel Conversation
It’s time to wrap up an eventful week with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his co-host Mike Davis. The guys react to their excellent conversation with longtime NASCAR crew member and former Dale Earnhardt Inc. employee Steve Hmiel in episode 413. (1:25) They also tee up a potential future conversation with the “Cat in the Hat” himself, Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing owner Jack Roush. There are reactions to Wednesday’s qualifying session for the Daytona 500, and Dale and Mike give their predictions for the Duels and for the winner of the Great American Race. (15:30) Listeners should also stay tuned for a quiz showing just how much Dale Jr. knows about his wife, Amy. (38:10) To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
414 - Daytona 500 Preview and Reaction to our Steve Hmiel Conversation
It’s time to wrap up an eventful week with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his co-host Mike Davis. The guys react to their excellent conversation with longtime NASCAR crew member and former Dale Earnhardt Inc. employee Steve Hmiel in episode 413. (1:25) They also tee up a potential future conversation with the “Cat in the Hat” himself, Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing owner Jack Roush. There are reactions to Wednesday’s qualifying session for the Daytona 500, and Dale and Mike give their predictions for the Duels and for the winner of the Great American Race. (15:30) Listeners should also stay tuned for a quiz showing just how much Dale Jr. knows about his wife, Amy. (38:10) To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
56:13
16 Feb 23
413 - Steve Hmiel - A Winner Everywhere He Goes
On Episode 413 of the Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with longtime NASCAR crew member Steve Hmiel. The Syracuse, New York native first entered the NASCAR garage in the mid-1970s when he took a job working with Tex Powell, building race cars for drivers like Benny Parsons. The interview discusses Hmiel’s first high-profile opportunity when he was hired on as a fabricator at the legendary Petty Enterprises in 1975. Hmiel gives listeners a fascinating look at the Petty operation and what the NASCAR Cup scene was like at that time. Hmiel also provides an extraordinary perspective on the inception of Jack Roush Racing’s stock car team, which he helped form with Robin Pemberton in late 1987. Dale Jr. and Steve debrief the 1990 Cup season, where Roush driver Mark Martin squared off against Dale Earnhardt Sr. for the points championship. They also discuss events from the heyday of Dale Earnhardt Inc., where Hmiel joined as a consultant and manager in 1998. Through an organization shake-up, Steve actually ended up crew chief for Dale Jr. in the middle of the 2005 season, helping guide him to victory at Chicagoland Speedway. Dale, Mike, and Steve are able to look back at that win and what it meant to not only the team at that time but Dale’s career as a whole. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
413 - Steve Hmiel - A Winner Everywhere He Goes
On Episode 413 of the Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with longtime NASCAR crew member Steve Hmiel. The Syracuse, New York native first entered the NASCAR garage in the mid-1970s when he took a job working with Tex Powell, building race cars for drivers like Benny Parsons. The interview discusses Hmiel’s first high-profile opportunity when he was hired on as a fabricator at the legendary Petty Enterprises in 1975. Hmiel gives listeners a fascinating look at the Petty operation and what the NASCAR Cup scene was like at that time. Hmiel also provides an extraordinary perspective on the inception of Jack Roush Racing’s stock car team, which he helped form with Robin Pemberton in late 1987. Dale Jr. and Steve debrief the 1990 Cup season, where Roush driver Mark Martin squared off against Dale Earnhardt Sr. for the points championship. They also discuss events from the heyday of Dale Earnhardt Inc., where Hmiel joined as a consultant and manager in 1998. Through an organization shake-up, Steve actually ended up crew chief for Dale Jr. in the middle of the 2005 season, helping guide him to victory at Chicagoland Speedway. Dale, Mike, and Steve are able to look back at that win and what it meant to not only the team at that time but Dale’s career as a whole. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
02:39:25
15 Feb 23
412 - I'd Rather Lose Than Be Bored
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles Studio for another edition of the Dale Jr. Download. As always, it’s time to kick off the week with Dirty Air, discussing the past weekend and current events. On this episode, the guys discuss: Valentine’s Day plans (1:00) Dale’s race weekend at Florence Motor Speedway (6:48) NASCAR’s new short track/road course race package (16:00) Daytona 500 predictions (30:00) During the Ask Jr. segment (44:30) of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dale Jr’s Daytona 500 wins Super Bowl thoughts Drivers making weight Earnhardt references in music To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
412 - I'd Rather Lose Than Be Bored
Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles Studio for another edition of the Dale Jr. Download. As always, it’s time to kick off the week with Dirty Air, discussing the past weekend and current events. On this episode, the guys discuss: Valentine’s Day plans (1:00) Dale’s race weekend at Florence Motor Speedway (6:48) NASCAR’s new short track/road course race package (16:00) Daytona 500 predictions (30:00) During the Ask Jr. segment (44:30) of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dale Jr’s Daytona 500 wins Super Bowl thoughts Drivers making weight Earnhardt references in music To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:11:50
14 Feb 23
411 - Recapping Our Redneck Romance with Sterling Marlin
The people have spoken, and Dirty Mo Media has listened: we need more Dale Jr. Download. With that in mind, welcome to our Thursday Download Wrap-Up Show. In this new addition to the Dirty Mo programming line-up, listeners can expect Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to unpack their guest interview of the week and other current and upcoming events. This week, the guys discussed the following: Sterling Marlin’s appearance on episode 410 of the Download A follow-up call with Sterling, discussing some things we missed Conor Daly to attempt the Daytona 500 Kyle Busch’s recent legal woes Kyle Larson to attempt the 2024 Indianapolis 500 Dale’s upcoming late-model race Super Bowl Picks To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
411 - Recapping Our Redneck Romance with Sterling Marlin
The people have spoken, and Dirty Mo Media has listened: we need more Dale Jr. Download. With that in mind, welcome to our Thursday Download Wrap-Up Show. In this new addition to the Dirty Mo programming line-up, listeners can expect Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to unpack their guest interview of the week and other current and upcoming events. This week, the guys discussed the following: Sterling Marlin’s appearance on episode 410 of the Download A follow-up call with Sterling, discussing some things we missed Conor Daly to attempt the Daytona 500 Kyle Busch’s recent legal woes Kyle Larson to attempt the 2024 Indianapolis 500 Dale’s upcoming late-model race Super Bowl Picks To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
49:41
9 Feb 23
410 - Sterling Marlin - "I Broke My Dad's Collarbone"
It’s time once again to sit down with a guest in the Bojangles Studio, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis have decided to kick off the year with a bang. The highly-anticipated first interview of The Dale Jr. Download’s 11th season is none other than Columbia, Tennessee’s Sterling Marlin. Marlin has been one of the most requested visitors by Download listeners, as he was a fixture in the NASCAR Cup garage for nearly four decades and a fan favorite amongst his class of competitors. Sterling truly embodies the humble farmer to stock car racing star trajectory that NASCAR was founded on. In fact, he traveled from his family’s 600-acre farm which is located about an hour southwest of Nashville. It was on that very farm that he learned the ethics of hard work from his father Clifton “Coo Coo” Marlin. Hard working principles made Coo Coo a force to be reckoned with in the NASCAR Sportsman ranks of the ‘60s and ‘70s, which carried over to him being one of the best-running independent outfits on the Cup circuit. From the age of 12, Sterling found a place on his father’s race team, eventually rising to tire changer and crew chief. His initial attempt at a cure came in the form of a ‘64 Chevelle, which he and his cousin drove from home straight to the race track; no tags, no lights, no worries. A few years later, he made a more proper entrance into the racing world, entering a NASCAR Sportsman race at the famed Nashville Fairgrounds. A couple racing weekends later, he found himself sitting in the driver’s seat of his father’s Cup ride, ready to take on the likes of Richard Petty, Cale Yarborough, and the other stars of the 1970s. And when the opportunity for a full-time Cup ride came knocking from Roger Hamby in 1983, Sterling rose to the occasion in the same fashion, finishing 19th in the point standings and winning Rookie of the Year honors. Consistency seemed to be a key to success for Sterling, as a signed contract to be chauffeur of Billy Hagan’s championship-winning number-44 Piedmont Airlines ride brought about his breakthrough season in 1988. A 10th-place points effort made other car owners in the garage take notice, and the tobacco farmer from Columbia had established himself as a more than capable wheel-turner. Sterling had stints driving for some of the most steadiest outfits in the stock car scene, including Junior Johnson, Hoss Ellington, the Stravola Brothers, and Earl Sadler, but none could help him get over the hump from solid finisher to race winner. That is, until 1994. Armed with a new ride at Morgan-McClure, in their bright-yellow Kodak number-4, Sterling set out on the season lightning quick, thanks in part to Dr. Gas’ revolutionary “x-pipe” exhaust system. The few extra horsepower was enough to edge Sterling ahead when it mattered most, making him the winner of the Daytona 500. After finishing second and coming close so many times, he was finally a race winner, in the sport’s biggest event at that. Once the glass was broken, Sterling returned the following year and repeated the feat, giving him the distinct honor of being the only driver in history to notch his first two victories in the Great American Race. He would go on to finish 3rd in the 1995 season points, certifying him as one of the top talents in the division. Sterling would go on to have continued success in NASCAR, including a near-championship run in 2002 before retiring after the ‘09 season. The discussion covers the highs and lows of his career, as well as his 2012 diagnosis of Parkinsonism and his navigation of the disorder in his day-to-day life. Tune in to gain a unique perspective on one of stock car racing’s most memorable characters on episode 410 of the Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
410 - Sterling Marlin - "I Broke My Dad's Collarbone"
It’s time once again to sit down with a guest in the Bojangles Studio, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis have decided to kick off the year with a bang. The highly-anticipated first interview of The Dale Jr. Download’s 11th season is none other than Columbia, Tennessee’s Sterling Marlin. Marlin has been one of the most requested visitors by Download listeners, as he was a fixture in the NASCAR Cup garage for nearly four decades and a fan favorite amongst his class of competitors. Sterling truly embodies the humble farmer to stock car racing star trajectory that NASCAR was founded on. In fact, he traveled from his family’s 600-acre farm which is located about an hour southwest of Nashville. It was on that very farm that he learned the ethics of hard work from his father Clifton “Coo Coo” Marlin. Hard working principles made Coo Coo a force to be reckoned with in the NASCAR Sportsman ranks of the ‘60s and ‘70s, which carried over to him being one of the best-running independent outfits on the Cup circuit. From the age of 12, Sterling found a place on his father’s race team, eventually rising to tire changer and crew chief. His initial attempt at a cure came in the form of a ‘64 Chevelle, which he and his cousin drove from home straight to the race track; no tags, no lights, no worries. A few years later, he made a more proper entrance into the racing world, entering a NASCAR Sportsman race at the famed Nashville Fairgrounds. A couple racing weekends later, he found himself sitting in the driver’s seat of his father’s Cup ride, ready to take on the likes of Richard Petty, Cale Yarborough, and the other stars of the 1970s. And when the opportunity for a full-time Cup ride came knocking from Roger Hamby in 1983, Sterling rose to the occasion in the same fashion, finishing 19th in the point standings and winning Rookie of the Year honors. Consistency seemed to be a key to success for Sterling, as a signed contract to be chauffeur of Billy Hagan’s championship-winning number-44 Piedmont Airlines ride brought about his breakthrough season in 1988. A 10th-place points effort made other car owners in the garage take notice, and the tobacco farmer from Columbia had established himself as a more than capable wheel-turner. Sterling had stints driving for some of the most steadiest outfits in the stock car scene, including Junior Johnson, Hoss Ellington, the Stravola Brothers, and Earl Sadler, but none could help him get over the hump from solid finisher to race winner. That is, until 1994. Armed with a new ride at Morgan-McClure, in their bright-yellow Kodak number-4, Sterling set out on the season lightning quick, thanks in part to Dr. Gas’ revolutionary “x-pipe” exhaust system. The few extra horsepower was enough to edge Sterling ahead when it mattered most, making him the winner of the Daytona 500. After finishing second and coming close so many times, he was finally a race winner, in the sport’s biggest event at that. Once the glass was broken, Sterling returned the following year and repeated the feat, giving him the distinct honor of being the only driver in history to notch his first two victories in the Great American Race. He would go on to finish 3rd in the 1995 season points, certifying him as one of the top talents in the division. Sterling would go on to have continued success in NASCAR, including a near-championship run in 2002 before retiring after the ‘09 season. The discussion covers the highs and lows of his career, as well as his 2012 diagnosis of Parkinsonism and his navigation of the disorder in his day-to-day life. Tune in to gain a unique perspective on one of stock car racing’s most memorable characters on episode 410 of the Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:36:51
8 Feb 23
409 - Clash Overreactions; Jimmie Johnson's Back; Kevin Harvick's Retirement
As the green flag waves on season 11, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles studio for episode 409 of the Dale Jr. Download. With a new format in store for the 2023 season, which will see three episodes drop a week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, the gang decided to start things off with some Dirty Air. There was a lot to catch up on from the off-season, including the launch of some new Dirty Mo Media shows, personal events, and of course a preview of the upcoming year in Cup racing. Listeners can also expect discussion about: The first Download guest of the year The Clash in the Coliseum Dale’s next late-model event The return of Jimmie Johnson Kevin Harvick’s retirement Tuesday episodes will also feature the fan-favorite Ask Jr. segment, and this week listeners wrote in questions about: Dale’s recent experience during the NASCAR Hall of Fame ceremony How mechanics can get into NASCAR The possibility of a timed/endurance-style NASCAR race Off-season adventures at home To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
409 - Clash Overreactions; Jimmie Johnson's Back; Kevin Harvick's Retirement
As the green flag waves on season 11, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles studio for episode 409 of the Dale Jr. Download. With a new format in store for the 2023 season, which will see three episodes drop a week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, the gang decided to start things off with some Dirty Air. There was a lot to catch up on from the off-season, including the launch of some new Dirty Mo Media shows, personal events, and of course a preview of the upcoming year in Cup racing. Listeners can also expect discussion about: The first Download guest of the year The Clash in the Coliseum Dale’s next late-model event The return of Jimmie Johnson Kevin Harvick’s retirement Tuesday episodes will also feature the fan-favorite Ask Jr. segment, and this week listeners wrote in questions about: Dale’s recent experience during the NASCAR Hall of Fame ceremony How mechanics can get into NASCAR The possibility of a timed/endurance-style NASCAR race Off-season adventures at home To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:18:20
7 Feb 23
408 - Brian France - The Rise, Fall, and Everything in Between
On the season finale of the Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with one of their most highly anticipated guests to date: former NASCAR CEO Brian France. In 2002, RJ Reynolds announced it would be pulling its Winston branding as a title sponsor for the NASCAR Cup series after 30 years. Not long after, Bill France Jr., the CEO who oversaw that era stepped down from his position of power. With the organization at a crossroads, Brian arose to the occasion and helped fill the void of his father’s absence while ushering the premiere stock car division into its modern-day state. From 2003 to ‘18, many changes took place on Brian’s watch that molded NASCAR racing into the motorsport that we watch today. The Dirty Mo crew and listeners alike were eager to have Brian to the Bojangles Studio hot seat to discuss what he felt was a success and a miss during his tenure at the helm of the organization. His education in running an empire began at an early age while growing up in the shadow of his father Bill Jr. A place in the shadows of giants is something that Dale Jr. and Brian can relate to, and the two recall how their fathers were certainly allies but never close friends. Once of age and eager to work, Brian took a position working at Talladega Superspeedway. He became fascinated with the business side of racing and in the 1990s he went on to manage Tucson Raceway Park and work at NASCAR’s Los Angeles office. His tasks included capitalizing on NASCAR’s flourishing west coast fanbase while strengthening its connection to the entertainment capital of the world, which resulted in NASCAR’s integration into the mainstream television and film industry. After helping to negotiate NASCAR’s first national television package deal in 2001, the stage was set for Brian to try his hand at leading the sanctioning body. Dale compares Brian and Bill Jr.’s leadership styles and what it's like having one strong character making decisions versus an entire committee of voices. Brian says he recognizes that many of the changes NASCAR has gone through over the last two decades may be alienating to longtime fans, but insists that the intention was always to promote growth through progression. He explains that NASCAR leadership often looks into untapped markets and develops strategies to help bring new fans into the fold including races in new markets, its diversity programs, and collaborative efforts with other sports and business entities. In 2004, NASCAR along with its new title sponsor partner Nextel introduced the Chase for Cup playoffs system, which would radically alter the traditional points championship structure. Brian explains that the desire to create “big moments” in points racing inspired the inclusion of cutoff lines and races. They discuss how the Playoffs field was expanded from 10 to now 16 and the events that occurred over the years to influence those decisions. Brian admits that a lot of the structuring came from looking at how other sports leagues officiate their playoff systems and what effects it has on their respective championships. Since Dale was an active competitor during Brian’s time in charge, he was anxious to get his insight on one of the most polarizing developments in the last 20 years: the Car of Tomorrow. Making its debut in 2007, the CoT was intended to increase competition while improving safety initiatives, but it became regarded as an inferior machine by drivers and fans. Brian admits that he viewed the car as a mistake and wishes that he would have gotten more input from the drivers and teams in its manufacturing. The conversation also touches on the Jeremy Mayfield scandal, the 2013 Regular Season finale at Richmond, Brian’s lack of presence at the races, and his 2018 arrest. Download listeners can expect a candid look at one of motorsports most influential leaders in modern history, as well as insight into the decision-making that shifted NASCAR into a household name. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
408 - Brian France - The Rise, Fall, and Everything in Between
On the season finale of the Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with one of their most highly anticipated guests to date: former NASCAR CEO Brian France. In 2002, RJ Reynolds announced it would be pulling its Winston branding as a title sponsor for the NASCAR Cup series after 30 years. Not long after, Bill France Jr., the CEO who oversaw that era stepped down from his position of power. With the organization at a crossroads, Brian arose to the occasion and helped fill the void of his father’s absence while ushering the premiere stock car division into its modern-day state. From 2003 to ‘18, many changes took place on Brian’s watch that molded NASCAR racing into the motorsport that we watch today. The Dirty Mo crew and listeners alike were eager to have Brian to the Bojangles Studio hot seat to discuss what he felt was a success and a miss during his tenure at the helm of the organization. His education in running an empire began at an early age while growing up in the shadow of his father Bill Jr. A place in the shadows of giants is something that Dale Jr. and Brian can relate to, and the two recall how their fathers were certainly allies but never close friends. Once of age and eager to work, Brian took a position working at Talladega Superspeedway. He became fascinated with the business side of racing and in the 1990s he went on to manage Tucson Raceway Park and work at NASCAR’s Los Angeles office. His tasks included capitalizing on NASCAR’s flourishing west coast fanbase while strengthening its connection to the entertainment capital of the world, which resulted in NASCAR’s integration into the mainstream television and film industry. After helping to negotiate NASCAR’s first national television package deal in 2001, the stage was set for Brian to try his hand at leading the sanctioning body. Dale compares Brian and Bill Jr.’s leadership styles and what it's like having one strong character making decisions versus an entire committee of voices. Brian says he recognizes that many of the changes NASCAR has gone through over the last two decades may be alienating to longtime fans, but insists that the intention was always to promote growth through progression. He explains that NASCAR leadership often looks into untapped markets and develops strategies to help bring new fans into the fold including races in new markets, its diversity programs, and collaborative efforts with other sports and business entities. In 2004, NASCAR along with its new title sponsor partner Nextel introduced the Chase for Cup playoffs system, which would radically alter the traditional points championship structure. Brian explains that the desire to create “big moments” in points racing inspired the inclusion of cutoff lines and races. They discuss how the Playoffs field was expanded from 10 to now 16 and the events that occurred over the years to influence those decisions. Brian admits that a lot of the structuring came from looking at how other sports leagues officiate their playoff systems and what effects it has on their respective championships. Since Dale was an active competitor during Brian’s time in charge, he was anxious to get his insight on one of the most polarizing developments in the last 20 years: the Car of Tomorrow. Making its debut in 2007, the CoT was intended to increase competition while improving safety initiatives, but it became regarded as an inferior machine by drivers and fans. Brian admits that he viewed the car as a mistake and wishes that he would have gotten more input from the drivers and teams in its manufacturing. The conversation also touches on the Jeremy Mayfield scandal, the 2013 Regular Season finale at Richmond, Brian’s lack of presence at the races, and his 2018 arrest. Download listeners can expect a candid look at one of motorsports most influential leaders in modern history, as well as insight into the decision-making that shifted NASCAR into a household name. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
02:29:34
15 Nov 22
407 - Scott Bloomquist - Aliens Don't Care About Long Hair
In short-track racing, one driver’s name has been synonymous with creating headlines and capturing the attention of the motorsports world. On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with that man: the legendary Scott Bloomquist. After arriving in Eastern Tennessee in the mid-1980s and taking the dirt late model scene by storm, Scott rose to prominence in the early ‘90s and has gone on to be regarded as one of the greatest race drivers of all time. Dale asks Scott about the moment he realized he had become larger than life, and he references the 1988 running of the premiere dirt late model racing event, Eldora Speedway’s World 100. Scott explains that he had never been to the track before and found it intimidating, and upon learning that there were over 250 other entrants for the race he about decided to head back to Knoxville to compete closer to home. He ultimately was convinced to stay by a Hoosier Tire representative, and in the big showdown, Scott defeated late model standout Jeff Purvis, who was aiming for his fourth win in a row at this event. Bloomquist is well known for his eccentric style and rockstar-like appearance. After being born in Iowa and spending the beginning of his childhood there, his father Ron decided to leave his electrician trade to pursue becoming a pilot. The career transition brought the family to California, where Scott discovered a love for surfing and fast cars. Another defining quality is Scott’s tendency to rebel, and when his father stated “I will never have no long-haired son”, well, you can guess where this is going. As a result, the image of Scott Bloomquist race fans have known for the last four decades was born, and doesn’t appear to be going anywhere anytime soon. The origin of Scott’s legendary racing career is in part thanks to his father’s interest in trying the craft out himself. After seeing a co-worker race at the local raceway in Corona, Ron bought an asphalt car and got it ready for dirt competition. One attempt was enough, and he quickly realized it wasn’t for him. He then offered Scott the opportunity to get behind the wheel, and the 16-year-old jumped at the chance to go fast. He ran well enough in his maiden voyage that the two decided to pursue the sport further, but when the car Ron built for Scott was destroyed in a crash at Manzanita Speedway, he told Scott he wasn’t spending a penny more. From then on, Scott was independent in his racing efforts. Scott tells the story of how his family arrived in Mooresburg, Tennessee on a plot of land located on the cusp of the Cherokee River. When Ron began looking for property to retire to in the early 1980s, the family originally looked at property in Oregon. But Scott, who was fully immersed in the dirt racing scene by that point, recognized that Oregon’s racing was outdated and suggested Tennessee, where Robert Smawley and his NDRA outfit were operating and paying $10,000 to win. Upon arriving, Scott found success early at Kingsport Speedway and used the momentum to propel himself to the top of the division, where he has gone on to win more marquee events than any other driver in history. However, Scott’s time at the top has not been without controversy and the interview touches on his various legal issues and suspensions over the years. Scott is open on the subject and explains how his appearance and success have led others to assume the worst about him. The infamy that came with the arrests boosted Scott’s reputation and ultimately led to him becoming a colossal figure in the sport. Finally, no interview with Scott Bloomquist would be complete without discussing aliens and extraterrestrial beings. Scott details his neighbor's encounter and even touches on an experience of his own. Download listeners should tune in for an unforgettable episode and a peak into the mind of one of racing’s most iconic figures. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
407 - Scott Bloomquist - Aliens Don't Care About Long Hair
In short-track racing, one driver’s name has been synonymous with creating headlines and capturing the attention of the motorsports world. On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with that man: the legendary Scott Bloomquist. After arriving in Eastern Tennessee in the mid-1980s and taking the dirt late model scene by storm, Scott rose to prominence in the early ‘90s and has gone on to be regarded as one of the greatest race drivers of all time. Dale asks Scott about the moment he realized he had become larger than life, and he references the 1988 running of the premiere dirt late model racing event, Eldora Speedway’s World 100. Scott explains that he had never been to the track before and found it intimidating, and upon learning that there were over 250 other entrants for the race he about decided to head back to Knoxville to compete closer to home. He ultimately was convinced to stay by a Hoosier Tire representative, and in the big showdown, Scott defeated late model standout Jeff Purvis, who was aiming for his fourth win in a row at this event. Bloomquist is well known for his eccentric style and rockstar-like appearance. After being born in Iowa and spending the beginning of his childhood there, his father Ron decided to leave his electrician trade to pursue becoming a pilot. The career transition brought the family to California, where Scott discovered a love for surfing and fast cars. Another defining quality is Scott’s tendency to rebel, and when his father stated “I will never have no long-haired son”, well, you can guess where this is going. As a result, the image of Scott Bloomquist race fans have known for the last four decades was born, and doesn’t appear to be going anywhere anytime soon. The origin of Scott’s legendary racing career is in part thanks to his father’s interest in trying the craft out himself. After seeing a co-worker race at the local raceway in Corona, Ron bought an asphalt car and got it ready for dirt competition. One attempt was enough, and he quickly realized it wasn’t for him. He then offered Scott the opportunity to get behind the wheel, and the 16-year-old jumped at the chance to go fast. He ran well enough in his maiden voyage that the two decided to pursue the sport further, but when the car Ron built for Scott was destroyed in a crash at Manzanita Speedway, he told Scott he wasn’t spending a penny more. From then on, Scott was independent in his racing efforts. Scott tells the story of how his family arrived in Mooresburg, Tennessee on a plot of land located on the cusp of the Cherokee River. When Ron began looking for property to retire to in the early 1980s, the family originally looked at property in Oregon. But Scott, who was fully immersed in the dirt racing scene by that point, recognized that Oregon’s racing was outdated and suggested Tennessee, where Robert Smawley and his NDRA outfit were operating and paying $10,000 to win. Upon arriving, Scott found success early at Kingsport Speedway and used the momentum to propel himself to the top of the division, where he has gone on to win more marquee events than any other driver in history. However, Scott’s time at the top has not been without controversy and the interview touches on his various legal issues and suspensions over the years. Scott is open on the subject and explains how his appearance and success have led others to assume the worst about him. The infamy that came with the arrests boosted Scott’s reputation and ultimately led to him becoming a colossal figure in the sport. Finally, no interview with Scott Bloomquist would be complete without discussing aliens and extraterrestrial beings. Scott details his neighbor's encounter and even touches on an experience of his own. Download listeners should tune in for an unforgettable episode and a peak into the mind of one of racing’s most iconic figures. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:49:56
9 Nov 22
407 - DIRTY AIR - Where To Go From Here? JRM Loses Championship; JGR Loses So Much More
After the conclusion of the NASCAR racing season, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are once again in the Bojangles Studio for another edition of Dirty Air presented by Filter Time. Dale was fresh off his trip to Phoenix for NASCAR’s Championship weekend, and there was plenty to unpack. JR Motorsports came up short in its bid for the Xfinity Championship against Ty Gibbs and the Joe Gibbs Racing organization, and Dale shares his insights of what unfolded in the race and what could have played out differently. The racing world was rocked Sunday morning by the sudden passing of Ty’s father Coy Gibbs. Dale and Mike discuss the recent perception of Ty due to his on-track incident at Martinsville, and speculate how the racing world will surround Ty in his moment of need. With his future career being one of the most discussed topics in NASCAR, it is hard to imagine how he is dealing with so many life-changing moments at once. The NBC broadcast crew was also thrown for a loop when Steve Letarte had to have an emergency appendectomy after Saturday’s Xfinity race. Dale explains what was happening behind the scenes to aid Steve and his family, as well as what extra steps he had to take to prepare for Sunday’s Cup race one-man down. During #AskJr. presented by Xfinity, listeners sent in questions regarding Dale’s dream tracks for the final four NASCAR Playoffs races, his opinions on Ross Chastain and Chase Elliott’s dust-up during the Phoenix race, updates on his car restoration projects, the recent announcement that Pennsboro Speedway is being revived and his plans for the off-season. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
407 - DIRTY AIR - Where To Go From Here? JRM Loses Championship; JGR Loses So Much More
After the conclusion of the NASCAR racing season, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are once again in the Bojangles Studio for another edition of Dirty Air presented by Filter Time. Dale was fresh off his trip to Phoenix for NASCAR’s Championship weekend, and there was plenty to unpack. JR Motorsports came up short in its bid for the Xfinity Championship against Ty Gibbs and the Joe Gibbs Racing organization, and Dale shares his insights of what unfolded in the race and what could have played out differently. The racing world was rocked Sunday morning by the sudden passing of Ty’s father Coy Gibbs. Dale and Mike discuss the recent perception of Ty due to his on-track incident at Martinsville, and speculate how the racing world will surround Ty in his moment of need. With his future career being one of the most discussed topics in NASCAR, it is hard to imagine how he is dealing with so many life-changing moments at once. The NBC broadcast crew was also thrown for a loop when Steve Letarte had to have an emergency appendectomy after Saturday’s Xfinity race. Dale explains what was happening behind the scenes to aid Steve and his family, as well as what extra steps he had to take to prepare for Sunday’s Cup race one-man down. During #AskJr. presented by Xfinity, listeners sent in questions regarding Dale’s dream tracks for the final four NASCAR Playoffs races, his opinions on Ross Chastain and Chase Elliott’s dust-up during the Phoenix race, updates on his car restoration projects, the recent announcement that Pennsboro Speedway is being revived and his plans for the off-season. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
55:54
8 Nov 22
406 - DIRTY AIR - DJD Lands Monster Guests; Dale Jr. Lands Big-Catch Sponsor; Austin Hill Lands Punch (Ouch)
Dale Jr. dropped all sorts of news on this week’s Dirty Air segment of The Dale Jr. Download podcast. First, he elaborated on his late model plans for Florence Motor Speedway’s South Carolina 400 on Nov. 19, including the paint scheme he will carry. Hint, we hope you like Dale Earnhardt throwbacks because this black-and-gold No. 3 will trigger some wonderful memories. Dale Jr. also announces he will be running an additional NASCAR Xfinity Series race in 2023. In Ask Jr, Dale Jr. answers a handful of fan-sourced questions, including: Should owners have more say in NASCAR? Do you make a Halloween costume that conceals your identity? What do you think of Parker Kligerman’s recent announcement that he’s returning to full-time NXS racing? After driving to Martinsville with him, how well would you rate Truex as a road-trip buddy? What do you make of Austin Hill’s punch of Myatt Snider? Finally, Dale Jr. reveals upcoming guests on the Download to finish out the 2023 season. One is probably Dirt Super Late Model’s biggest star and has been for three decades; the other you never saw coming. It’s OK, we didn’t either. BZF has entered the chat! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
406 - DIRTY AIR - DJD Lands Monster Guests; Dale Jr. Lands Big-Catch Sponsor; Austin Hill Lands Punch (Ouch)
Dale Jr. dropped all sorts of news on this week’s Dirty Air segment of The Dale Jr. Download podcast. First, he elaborated on his late model plans for Florence Motor Speedway’s South Carolina 400 on Nov. 19, including the paint scheme he will carry. Hint, we hope you like Dale Earnhardt throwbacks because this black-and-gold No. 3 will trigger some wonderful memories. Dale Jr. also announces he will be running an additional NASCAR Xfinity Series race in 2023. In Ask Jr, Dale Jr. answers a handful of fan-sourced questions, including: Should owners have more say in NASCAR? Do you make a Halloween costume that conceals your identity? What do you think of Parker Kligerman’s recent announcement that he’s returning to full-time NXS racing? After driving to Martinsville with him, how well would you rate Truex as a road-trip buddy? What do you make of Austin Hill’s punch of Myatt Snider? Finally, Dale Jr. reveals upcoming guests on the Download to finish out the 2023 season. One is probably Dirt Super Late Model’s biggest star and has been for three decades; the other you never saw coming. It’s OK, we didn’t either. BZF has entered the chat! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
50:09
1 Nov 22
406 - Steve Letarte - Chastain’s Miracle; Dale Jr’s Championship Predictions; What The Actual Hell, Ty Gibbs?
The sun is setting on the 2022 NASCAR season, and the Dirty Mo Media crew is recording a special edition of the Dale Jr. Download to help race fans prepare for the crowning of a new round of champions. While Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis have become known for their well-informed examinations of NASCAR events, for episode 406 they’ve called for reinforcements, bringing NBC Sports color analyst and former Hendrick Motorsports crew chief Steve Letarte to the Bojangles Studio. Download listeners can expect to hear a breakdown of: Ross Chastain’s INSANE last lap wall ride at Martinsville Ty Gibbs spinning out teammate Brandon Jones to win Previews and anticipation for the championship weekend events at Phoenix Raceway A case for each of the Xfinity and Cup Series championship contenders Predictions of who will win and why You can hear all of this and more on tonight’s episode of the Dale Jr. Download, available on this website and all major podcast streaming platforms. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
406 - Steve Letarte - Chastain’s Miracle; Dale Jr’s Championship Predictions; What The Actual Hell, Ty Gibbs?
The sun is setting on the 2022 NASCAR season, and the Dirty Mo Media crew is recording a special edition of the Dale Jr. Download to help race fans prepare for the crowning of a new round of champions. While Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis have become known for their well-informed examinations of NASCAR events, for episode 406 they’ve called for reinforcements, bringing NBC Sports color analyst and former Hendrick Motorsports crew chief Steve Letarte to the Bojangles Studio. Download listeners can expect to hear a breakdown of: Ross Chastain’s INSANE last lap wall ride at Martinsville Ty Gibbs spinning out teammate Brandon Jones to win Previews and anticipation for the championship weekend events at Phoenix Raceway A case for each of the Xfinity and Cup Series championship contenders Predictions of who will win and why You can hear all of this and more on tonight’s episode of the Dale Jr. Download, available on this website and all major podcast streaming platforms. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:06:03
31 Oct 22
405 - Marcus Smith - NEW Details About The All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro
Back in September, the stock car racing world was turned upside down when the announcement was made that the 2023 NASCAR All-Star race would be held at the recently revived North Wilkesboro Speedway. On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the man who helped make the decision, CEO and President of Speedway Motorsports Incorporated Marcus Smith. Devotees of The Download will recognize that this marks Smith’s fifth appearance on the show, and his yearly check-in usually provides great insight into some of the upcoming projects in the NASCAR world. Much has changed since Marcus’ last visit in May 2021, most notably the passing of his father Bruton, who was a major contributor to the racing world and founder of SMI. Marcus reflects on the difficult process of coming to terms with his father’s declining health but is thankful that he lived a long life of 95 years. He also explains how his father got his start in car sales by running a used car lot on his mother’s front lawn. Though he was eventually shut down by city officials, his knack for the industry eventually led to him forming Sonic Automotive, the fifth-largest automotive retailer in the country. The interview addresses the rumors surrounding the reconfiguration of Texas Motor Speedway. Dale and Marcus unpack the September Cup race held at the Fort Worth-based track and discuss what can be done to help boost attendance while keeping competitors and teams happy. Marcus explains that with the current grandstand set-up, there are limited changes that can be made to the track’s actual configuration. However, alterations can be made to the speedway’s profile, much like the recent reshaping of Atlanta Motor Speedway. In fact, with the help of iRacing, they’ve been able to model potential changes and test through simulation to see what effect they’d have on the racing product. The process was essential to the work done in Atlanta, and the results found in the trial runs were comparable to the actual Cup races held this season. In addition to the changes made to the racing surface at Atlanta, there have been talks of bringing a casino resort to the grounds in an effort to build up the area similar to that of Kansas Speedway. Marcus explains that in order for the plans to go through, there needs to be an amendment made to the Georgia state constitution that would allow for sports gambling, and encourages listeners and supporters of the speedway to be vocal to their local representatives. Another huge topic of discussion was the status of the Nashville Fairgrounds project. Those following along will remember that Dale and Marcus have been huge proponents in bringing NASCAR Cup racing back to the famed oval. Marcus makes clear that while they have been seemingly stuck in place for a while, progress is being made on the initiative. A glimmer of hope in bringing relics of NASCAR’s past back to life has been the return of North Wilkesboro Speedway. Dale and Marcus reflect on the huge success of the recent CARS Late Model Stock Car race at the track and fill listeners in on the changes and upgrades being made to the facility in anticipation of next year’s All-Star event. Aside from additional seating being brought in, improvements are being made to the facilities, scoring system, retaining walls, and traffic flow. The conversation also touches on NASCAR’s ongoing television contract discussions and what it means for the tracks and the Race Team Alliance. Tune in for insight from one of the great minds and innovators in the motorsports industry regarding what it takes to run a speedway and what all parties can do to help the sport grow as a whole. Check out northwilkesborospeedway.com for updates/details. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
405 - Marcus Smith - NEW Details About The All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro
Back in September, the stock car racing world was turned upside down when the announcement was made that the 2023 NASCAR All-Star race would be held at the recently revived North Wilkesboro Speedway. On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the man who helped make the decision, CEO and President of Speedway Motorsports Incorporated Marcus Smith. Devotees of The Download will recognize that this marks Smith’s fifth appearance on the show, and his yearly check-in usually provides great insight into some of the upcoming projects in the NASCAR world. Much has changed since Marcus’ last visit in May 2021, most notably the passing of his father Bruton, who was a major contributor to the racing world and founder of SMI. Marcus reflects on the difficult process of coming to terms with his father’s declining health but is thankful that he lived a long life of 95 years. He also explains how his father got his start in car sales by running a used car lot on his mother’s front lawn. Though he was eventually shut down by city officials, his knack for the industry eventually led to him forming Sonic Automotive, the fifth-largest automotive retailer in the country. The interview addresses the rumors surrounding the reconfiguration of Texas Motor Speedway. Dale and Marcus unpack the September Cup race held at the Fort Worth-based track and discuss what can be done to help boost attendance while keeping competitors and teams happy. Marcus explains that with the current grandstand set-up, there are limited changes that can be made to the track’s actual configuration. However, alterations can be made to the speedway’s profile, much like the recent reshaping of Atlanta Motor Speedway. In fact, with the help of iRacing, they’ve been able to model potential changes and test through simulation to see what effect they’d have on the racing product. The process was essential to the work done in Atlanta, and the results found in the trial runs were comparable to the actual Cup races held this season. In addition to the changes made to the racing surface at Atlanta, there have been talks of bringing a casino resort to the grounds in an effort to build up the area similar to that of Kansas Speedway. Marcus explains that in order for the plans to go through, there needs to be an amendment made to the Georgia state constitution that would allow for sports gambling, and encourages listeners and supporters of the speedway to be vocal to their local representatives. Another huge topic of discussion was the status of the Nashville Fairgrounds project. Those following along will remember that Dale and Marcus have been huge proponents in bringing NASCAR Cup racing back to the famed oval. Marcus makes clear that while they have been seemingly stuck in place for a while, progress is being made on the initiative. A glimmer of hope in bringing relics of NASCAR’s past back to life has been the return of North Wilkesboro Speedway. Dale and Marcus reflect on the huge success of the recent CARS Late Model Stock Car race at the track and fill listeners in on the changes and upgrades being made to the facility in anticipation of next year’s All-Star event. Aside from additional seating being brought in, improvements are being made to the facilities, scoring system, retaining walls, and traffic flow. The conversation also touches on NASCAR’s ongoing television contract discussions and what it means for the tracks and the Race Team Alliance. Tune in for insight from one of the great minds and innovators in the motorsports industry regarding what it takes to run a speedway and what all parties can do to help the sport grow as a whole. Check out northwilkesborospeedway.com for updates/details. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
01:50:03
25 Oct 22
405 - DIRTY AIR - Dale Jr. Announces A Return to Driver's Seat THIS YEAR
New week, new format for The Dale Jr. Download. In order to provide Download listeners something to tune in a tad sooner on podcast days, the Dirty Air segment and Ask Jr. segment will be released on their own. The duo started the segment with big news! North Wilkesboro must've given Dale the racing itch because he started the segment by announcing that he will be racing again soon and provides all the details where you can catch the action. Mike couldn't pass up the opportunity to ask Dale about his WWE experience at Monday Night Raw in Charlotte. Dale attended the event as a fan and is on the lookout for a WWE superstar to root for. The full episode of The Dale Jr. Download will drop on Tuesday, October 25, with an announcement-filled interview with Marcus Smith. What has turned into a yearly check-in provides Dale and Marcus the opportunity to break some news around the North Wilkesboro All-Star week. In #AskJr presented by Xfinity, Dale, Mike, Hannah, and Alex discuss what happened to the possum found at JRM after Las Vegas, how the podcast got started, and Tony Stewart's NHRA debut. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
405 - DIRTY AIR - Dale Jr. Announces A Return to Driver's Seat THIS YEAR
New week, new format for The Dale Jr. Download. In order to provide Download listeners something to tune in a tad sooner on podcast days, the Dirty Air segment and Ask Jr. segment will be released on their own. The duo started the segment with big news! North Wilkesboro must've given Dale the racing itch because he started the segment by announcing that he will be racing again soon and provides all the details where you can catch the action. Mike couldn't pass up the opportunity to ask Dale about his WWE experience at Monday Night Raw in Charlotte. Dale attended the event as a fan and is on the lookout for a WWE superstar to root for. The full episode of The Dale Jr. Download will drop on Tuesday, October 25, with an announcement-filled interview with Marcus Smith. What has turned into a yearly check-in provides Dale and Marcus the opportunity to break some news around the North Wilkesboro All-Star week. In #AskJr presented by Xfinity, Dale, Mike, Hannah, and Alex discuss what happened to the possum found at JRM after Las Vegas, how the podcast got started, and Tony Stewart's NHRA debut. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
47:07
25 Oct 22
404 - DIRTY AIR - Bubba Wallace vs. Kyle Larson; Ben Kennedy Aftermath; Dale Jr. Reacts To Kurt Busch Retirement
An early-bird, Dirty Air-segment solo special for Dale Jr. Download listeners eager to hear Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s take on current events, including the drama from Sunday’s South Point 400 NASCAR Cup Series race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. But first, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis start Dirty Air by addressing criticism about last week’s interview with Ben Kennedy, NASCAR’s SVP of Strategy & Innovation. The two DJD hosts respond to social media kickback claiming they were too lenient on Kennedy, grandson to the late Bill France Jr. and widely considered to be NASCAR’s next top guy. Did they let him off the hook with softball questions and easy outs? The conversation then pivots to the topic of the hour – the initial mid-race wreck involving Wallace, Larson, and Christopher Bell, as well as the retaliation, shoving match, and post-race interview that ensued. Earnhardt tries to predict what NASCAR’s response will be by drawing from past examples such as Chase Elliott vs. Kyle Busch at Darlington in 2020 and Noah Gragson vs. Sage Karam at Road America earlier this year. That wasn’t the only news from the weekend. Kurt Busch announced he will no longer race full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series as he continues to heal from concussions. This topic was especially personal to Dale Jr., who also had his racing career cut short due to a head injury. What will Kurt do next? Mike Davis has a thought, and Dale Jr. loves the idea. Lastly, on Dirty Air, Earnhardt unpacks the whole saga at Stewart-Haas Racing, where Tony Stewart expressed anger towards NASCAR over the penalties levied against Cole Custer’s No. 41 team, and Gene Haas reportedly made comments to media about Custer’s future. What does this mean for Custer? What about Ryan Preece? Earnhardt weighs in with his usual unfiltered opinion, candor, and honesty. The full episode of The Dale Jr. Download will drop on Tuesday, October 18, complete with Dirty Air presented by Filter Time, Ask Jr presented by Xfinity, and a deep conversation with Erik Jones, driver of the Petty/GMS No. 43, in the guest segment presented by Ally. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
404 - DIRTY AIR - Bubba Wallace vs. Kyle Larson; Ben Kennedy Aftermath; Dale Jr. Reacts To Kurt Busch Retirement
An early-bird, Dirty Air-segment solo special for Dale Jr. Download listeners eager to hear Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s take on current events, including the drama from Sunday’s South Point 400 NASCAR Cup Series race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. But first, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis start Dirty Air by addressing criticism about last week’s interview with Ben Kennedy, NASCAR’s SVP of Strategy & Innovation. The two DJD hosts respond to social media kickback claiming they were too lenient on Kennedy, grandson to the late Bill France Jr. and widely considered to be NASCAR’s next top guy. Did they let him off the hook with softball questions and easy outs? The conversation then pivots to the topic of the hour – the initial mid-race wreck involving Wallace, Larson, and Christopher Bell, as well as the retaliation, shoving match, and post-race interview that ensued. Earnhardt tries to predict what NASCAR’s response will be by drawing from past examples such as Chase Elliott vs. Kyle Busch at Darlington in 2020 and Noah Gragson vs. Sage Karam at Road America earlier this year. That wasn’t the only news from the weekend. Kurt Busch announced he will no longer race full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series as he continues to heal from concussions. This topic was especially personal to Dale Jr., who also had his racing career cut short due to a head injury. What will Kurt do next? Mike Davis has a thought, and Dale Jr. loves the idea. Lastly, on Dirty Air, Earnhardt unpacks the whole saga at Stewart-Haas Racing, where Tony Stewart expressed anger towards NASCAR over the penalties levied against Cole Custer’s No. 41 team, and Gene Haas reportedly made comments to media about Custer’s future. What does this mean for Custer? What about Ryan Preece? Earnhardt weighs in with his usual unfiltered opinion, candor, and honesty. The full episode of The Dale Jr. Download will drop on Tuesday, October 18, complete with Dirty Air presented by Filter Time, Ask Jr presented by Xfinity, and a deep conversation with Erik Jones, driver of the Petty/GMS No. 43, in the guest segment presented by Ally. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
42:43
17 Oct 22
402 - Dale Jr. Talks Next Gen Safety; Ned Yost Shares Never Heard Dale Sr. Stories
In 400-plus episodes of The Dale Jr. Download, guests have brought a lot of Earnhardt stories to the table. But on this week’s edition the mold has been broken as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis welcome longtime MLB player, coach and team manager Ned Yost. After being drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in 1974 and playing in the majors for a handful of years, Ned retired during the ‘85 season. When he was at home in Mississippi figuring out his next move in life, he received a call from the Hank Aaron that would change the trajectory of his life forever, inviting him to be a coach for the upcoming pitching prospects of the Atlanta Braves. It was during his time with the Braves organization that he first made the acquaintance of Dale Earnhardt Sr. Ned and friend Jody Davis had made plans to go deer hunting and Davis invited Dale Sr. to come along. Ned and Dale Sr. became fast friends, bonding over their love of hunting and the outdoors and Ned would become a confidant for the Intimidator for years to come. Dale Jr. and Mike pick Ned’s brain about the transition from being a player to a coach, and he explains about how his time with Ted Simmons on the Brewers helped teach him the nuts and bolts of the game. When it came time for Ned to try his hand at team management, he leaned on his experiences of working with Bobby Cox, longtime manager of the Braves. And when he needed to turn a losing organization into a winning one, he depended on the lessons he learned from a brief stint of working on Dale Sr.’s race team in ‘94. Ned recalls the instance that occurred during the ‘94 MLB strike, where Dale Sr. invited him to come on the road with his Richard Childress Racing No. 3 team as they chased their seventh championship. While Ned merely worked as a “rehydration engineer”, he gained first person insight into what it takes to win at the highest level. The education came in handy as he went on to win his first World Series title with the Braves the following year as a bullpen coach. Another lesson that Dale Sr. instilled in Ned was that you never leave a winning team for a losing one. Ned explains that during a hunting trip in Texas, Dale Sr. was talking about his ongoing contract negotiations for the following season. When Ned suggested that he drive for his own start-up D.E.I., Dale Sr. explained that they weren’t ready to win yet. Ned pondered eventually having to leave the Braves to get his shot at managing a major league team and Dale Sr. implored him to stay put, explaining that winning is everything. The time came for Ned to leave in 2002 when he was made team manager of the Brewers. Ned breaks down the time it takes for a young organization to grow confident in their ability and start winning consistently, about a two-and-a-half-year process. Unfortunately, he was let go by Milwaukee before this concept came to fruition, but he found another opportunity to prove the system when he became manager of the Kansas City Royals in 2010. Ned would have the last laugh, as the Royals would win the ALC Pennant in 2014 and the World Series championship in 2015. The first thing Ned thought of was his old friend and how proud he would be of the persistent road to success. This episode has many never before heard Earnhardt hunting stories, as well “the rest of the story” of some of the most memorable tales told on The Download. Listeners should tune in for unforgettable insight into what it takes to win not only a World Series but a NASCAR Cup Championship, as well a better understanding of who Dale Earnhardt Sr. was away from the race track. DIRTY AIR Before Ned joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Morgan chat about: Tame Talladega Drivers speaking out Improvements for the NextGen car What can be better about driver’s headrest ASKJR presented by Xfinity Funniest experience with another driver Which racing pioneer Dale wants to interview NASCAR Cup Championship patches Deer hunting trips for the rest of the year To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
402 - Dale Jr. Talks Next Gen Safety; Ned Yost Shares Never Heard Dale Sr. Stories
In 400-plus episodes of The Dale Jr. Download, guests have brought a lot of Earnhardt stories to the table. But on this week’s edition the mold has been broken as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis welcome longtime MLB player, coach and team manager Ned Yost. After being drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in 1974 and playing in the majors for a handful of years, Ned retired during the ‘85 season. When he was at home in Mississippi figuring out his next move in life, he received a call from the Hank Aaron that would change the trajectory of his life forever, inviting him to be a coach for the upcoming pitching prospects of the Atlanta Braves. It was during his time with the Braves organization that he first made the acquaintance of Dale Earnhardt Sr. Ned and friend Jody Davis had made plans to go deer hunting and Davis invited Dale Sr. to come along. Ned and Dale Sr. became fast friends, bonding over their love of hunting and the outdoors and Ned would become a confidant for the Intimidator for years to come. Dale Jr. and Mike pick Ned’s brain about the transition from being a player to a coach, and he explains about how his time with Ted Simmons on the Brewers helped teach him the nuts and bolts of the game. When it came time for Ned to try his hand at team management, he leaned on his experiences of working with Bobby Cox, longtime manager of the Braves. And when he needed to turn a losing organization into a winning one, he depended on the lessons he learned from a brief stint of working on Dale Sr.’s race team in ‘94. Ned recalls the instance that occurred during the ‘94 MLB strike, where Dale Sr. invited him to come on the road with his Richard Childress Racing No. 3 team as they chased their seventh championship. While Ned merely worked as a “rehydration engineer”, he gained first person insight into what it takes to win at the highest level. The education came in handy as he went on to win his first World Series title with the Braves the following year as a bullpen coach. Another lesson that Dale Sr. instilled in Ned was that you never leave a winning team for a losing one. Ned explains that during a hunting trip in Texas, Dale Sr. was talking about his ongoing contract negotiations for the following season. When Ned suggested that he drive for his own start-up D.E.I., Dale Sr. explained that they weren’t ready to win yet. Ned pondered eventually having to leave the Braves to get his shot at managing a major league team and Dale Sr. implored him to stay put, explaining that winning is everything. The time came for Ned to leave in 2002 when he was made team manager of the Brewers. Ned breaks down the time it takes for a young organization to grow confident in their ability and start winning consistently, about a two-and-a-half-year process. Unfortunately, he was let go by Milwaukee before this concept came to fruition, but he found another opportunity to prove the system when he became manager of the Kansas City Royals in 2010. Ned would have the last laugh, as the Royals would win the ALC Pennant in 2014 and the World Series championship in 2015. The first thing Ned thought of was his old friend and how proud he would be of the persistent road to success. This episode has many never before heard Earnhardt hunting stories, as well “the rest of the story” of some of the most memorable tales told on The Download. Listeners should tune in for unforgettable insight into what it takes to win not only a World Series but a NASCAR Cup Championship, as well a better understanding of who Dale Earnhardt Sr. was away from the race track. DIRTY AIR Before Ned joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Morgan chat about: Tame Talladega Drivers speaking out Improvements for the NextGen car What can be better about driver’s headrest ASKJR presented by Xfinity Funniest experience with another driver Which racing pioneer Dale wants to interview NASCAR Cup Championship patches Deer hunting trips for the rest of the year To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
02:59:54
4 Oct 22
401 - Texas Tire Problems; Christopher Buescher Talks New Energy at RFK
Current events are on the docket as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis unpack the turbulent happenings of NASCAR’s weekend in Texas on this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download. Not only that, but they’ve brought in a guest who was very much a part of the turbulence, recent Bristol night race winner Chris Buescher. Dale and Chris have had some friendly banter over the past few weeks after Dale mistakenly referred to Chris as “Christopher” during a race broadcast. As the misstep reoccurred, Dale began to embrace the name change-up in an effort to catch his fellow commentators in the same spur-of-the-moment confusion. Chris caught wind of the joke via social media and took it in stride, even going as far as to change his profile name on Twitter and the driver name decal on his Roush Fenway Keselowski No. 17 car. Dale explains that he first grew to admire Chris when he bested then JR Motorsports driver Chase Elliott in the 2015 Xfinity Series season points standings. They discuss Chris leaving his hometown of Prosper, Texas at the age of 15 to move to North Carolina to pursue a career in motorsports. Chris credits his upbringing from his parents and knowing he was there to work and race. A huge part of Buescher's journey was a friendship he forged with Ken and David Ragan, which stemmed from a black flag incident during the Summer Shootout Legends car event at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Chris recalls getting in trouble for rough driving during the race and being sent to Ken’s office, who was managing 600 Racing at the time. After the Shootout, Ken explained to Chris’ family that if they were serious about racing, they needed to move out east. When they established that they were not in the place to do that at the time, Ken offered the spare bedroom in his house to Chris. Chris talks about getting involved in the Roush Racing development program thanks to help from the Ragans. His first step up the ladder was the ARCA Series, where he raced out of Midlothian, Illinois with the Roulo Brothers Racing outfit. He also discusses adapting to a stock car after transitioning out of Legends cars, and how he knocked the nose off his car on a start in one of his first races at Salem Speedway. The story of Chris making his Xfinity Series debut is a wild one, as he was tabbed last minute to fill in for Trevor Bayne in 2011, who went on medical leave. After forgetting to plug his phone in overnight, he was awakened by Gary Roulo who informed him “get your stuff, we’re going to the airport”. In the car, Gary explained the situation, and soon Chris was at Richmond Raceway getting fitted to hop into the No. 16 car with no practice laps or simulator time. The interview also discusses Chris’ time with Front Row Motorsports after winning the 2015 Xfinity Championship and his rain-shortened Cup victory at Pocono in 2016. Dale asks about the culture change at RFK since the arrival of Brad Keselowski. They also discuss the NextGen car’s tire issues and what changes can be made to Texas Motor Speedway to help better the racing there. With only a few races left in the 2022 Cup schedule, Chris is optimistic about where the RFK Racing organization is heading, and he’s looking forward to capitalizing on the momentum they’ve built in the past few weeks. DIRTY AIR Before Chris joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Hannah discuss: NASCAR’s eventful stop in Texas Denny and William Byron have a dust-up The NextGen tire problems continue in a big way What to do about Texas Motor Speedway? ASKJR presented by Xfinity This week the fans asked questions about: Dale’s reaction to Jimmie Johnson retiring from full-time competition in 2023 Which underfunded driver would he like to give a shot in a JRM ride Smaller steering wheels vs. bigger Where Noah Gragson’s Waffle House tradition stems from To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
401 - Texas Tire Problems; Christopher Buescher Talks New Energy at RFK
Current events are on the docket as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis unpack the turbulent happenings of NASCAR’s weekend in Texas on this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download. Not only that, but they’ve brought in a guest who was very much a part of the turbulence, recent Bristol night race winner Chris Buescher. Dale and Chris have had some friendly banter over the past few weeks after Dale mistakenly referred to Chris as “Christopher” during a race broadcast. As the misstep reoccurred, Dale began to embrace the name change-up in an effort to catch his fellow commentators in the same spur-of-the-moment confusion. Chris caught wind of the joke via social media and took it in stride, even going as far as to change his profile name on Twitter and the driver name decal on his Roush Fenway Keselowski No. 17 car. Dale explains that he first grew to admire Chris when he bested then JR Motorsports driver Chase Elliott in the 2015 Xfinity Series season points standings. They discuss Chris leaving his hometown of Prosper, Texas at the age of 15 to move to North Carolina to pursue a career in motorsports. Chris credits his upbringing from his parents and knowing he was there to work and race. A huge part of Buescher's journey was a friendship he forged with Ken and David Ragan, which stemmed from a black flag incident during the Summer Shootout Legends car event at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Chris recalls getting in trouble for rough driving during the race and being sent to Ken’s office, who was managing 600 Racing at the time. After the Shootout, Ken explained to Chris’ family that if they were serious about racing, they needed to move out east. When they established that they were not in the place to do that at the time, Ken offered the spare bedroom in his house to Chris. Chris talks about getting involved in the Roush Racing development program thanks to help from the Ragans. His first step up the ladder was the ARCA Series, where he raced out of Midlothian, Illinois with the Roulo Brothers Racing outfit. He also discusses adapting to a stock car after transitioning out of Legends cars, and how he knocked the nose off his car on a start in one of his first races at Salem Speedway. The story of Chris making his Xfinity Series debut is a wild one, as he was tabbed last minute to fill in for Trevor Bayne in 2011, who went on medical leave. After forgetting to plug his phone in overnight, he was awakened by Gary Roulo who informed him “get your stuff, we’re going to the airport”. In the car, Gary explained the situation, and soon Chris was at Richmond Raceway getting fitted to hop into the No. 16 car with no practice laps or simulator time. The interview also discusses Chris’ time with Front Row Motorsports after winning the 2015 Xfinity Championship and his rain-shortened Cup victory at Pocono in 2016. Dale asks about the culture change at RFK since the arrival of Brad Keselowski. They also discuss the NextGen car’s tire issues and what changes can be made to Texas Motor Speedway to help better the racing there. With only a few races left in the 2022 Cup schedule, Chris is optimistic about where the RFK Racing organization is heading, and he’s looking forward to capitalizing on the momentum they’ve built in the past few weeks. DIRTY AIR Before Chris joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Hannah discuss: NASCAR’s eventful stop in Texas Denny and William Byron have a dust-up The NextGen tire problems continue in a big way What to do about Texas Motor Speedway? ASKJR presented by Xfinity This week the fans asked questions about: Dale’s reaction to Jimmie Johnson retiring from full-time competition in 2023 Which underfunded driver would he like to give a shot in a JRM ride Smaller steering wheels vs. bigger Where Noah Gragson’s Waffle House tradition stems from To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
02:59:22
27 Sep 22
400 - Dale Jr. Reacts to Bristol Night Race; Tony Glover Shares Some “Innovation”
Everyone in stock car racing dreams of being on a Daytona 500-winning team, but how about three wins in five years? For Tony Glover, that dream became reality in the early 1990s, and on this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, he joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss the pieces of the puzzle that made it possible. Glover has been a part of racing his entire life. He attended his first race at three weeks old. Tony recalls his earliest memory in racing, which consisted of his father Gene flying out of Cleveland Speedway in Tennessee. The trauma of seeing his father’s crash did little to deter his love for the sport though, and by his teenage years, Tony was cleaning parts and turning wrenches. After spending many years on the road crew chiefing for his father’s late model program, which yielded the 1979 NASCAR Sportsman National Championship, Tony accepted a position at Petty Enterprises. Tony explains that the year he spent in Level Cross, North Carolina was the equivalent of a four-year college education. But, when his grandmother became ill in ‘83, he decided to move closer to home to spend time with her. As fate would have it, Larry McClure and Tim Morgan had just bought out G.C. Spencer and established their Morgan-McClure outfit in nearby Abingdon, Virginia and Tony was hired to work as part of the pit crew. Tony shares the story of how he became a crew chief for the team when Spencer, who had stayed on in the chiefing role, quit suddenly during the teching process at an event at Nashville Fairgrounds. This bumped Tony into the position and he remained there for the duration of his time with the outfit. They discuss the revolving roster of drivers Morgan-McClure had during the ‘80s, which included Lennie Pond, Tommy Ellis, Joe Ruttman and Rick Wilson. Tony explains that when Rick departed for RahMoc after ‘89, his choice to fill the seat was the hard charging Ernie Irvan. And while Phil Parsons would start the ‘90 season in the cockpit, after a few failed outings Irvan would eventually get the seat and help put Morgan-McClure on the map. The Irvan-Glover combination was quite successful, bringing home seven Cup wins including the ‘91 Daytona 500, but would only last a few seasons as Irvan would depart for Robert Yates in ‘93. His replacement was a driver Tony was well acquainted with from his years in the late model scene: fellow Tennessean Sterling Marlin. The new pairing won in their first outing, the ‘94 Daytona 500. When they followed up with a back-to-back triumph in the Great American Race in ‘95, they had the entire NASCAR garage looking in their direction. Dale and Tony get into some of the innovation on the plate-track cars in the Morgan-McClure stable. Tony talks about the revolutionary X-pipe exhaust system that was brought to them by Boyd Butler, better known as Dr. Gas. The story of how they kept the technical advantage a secret is incredible, including a non-disclosure agreement and wrapping the car in blankets in the garage. Ultimately a crash photo on the cover of Stock Car Racing Magazine leaked the guarded secret to the world. In ‘97, the desire to move up in rank and a little white lie from his wife convinced Tony to move on from Morgan-McClure and take a management position at SABCO Racing. Tony shares experiences from his years there.After a dismal season in 2011, Tony was released from the team and sought out a position at NASCAR through Mike Helton. In 2013, he became the overseeing technical director of NASCAR’s many touring series, a role he continues to fill today. DIRTY AIR: · NASCAR’s big weeked at Bristol · NextGen parts failures · Dirty Mo Fan Experience recap · Chris Buescher’s big win ASKJR presented by Xfinity: · Impressions about the 2023 NASCAR Cup schedule · Downtown Chicago’s worries about upcoming street race · SAFER barriers at North Wilkesboro · Brandon Jones to JRM To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
400 - Dale Jr. Reacts to Bristol Night Race; Tony Glover Shares Some “Innovation”
Everyone in stock car racing dreams of being on a Daytona 500-winning team, but how about three wins in five years? For Tony Glover, that dream became reality in the early 1990s, and on this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, he joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss the pieces of the puzzle that made it possible. Glover has been a part of racing his entire life. He attended his first race at three weeks old. Tony recalls his earliest memory in racing, which consisted of his father Gene flying out of Cleveland Speedway in Tennessee. The trauma of seeing his father’s crash did little to deter his love for the sport though, and by his teenage years, Tony was cleaning parts and turning wrenches. After spending many years on the road crew chiefing for his father’s late model program, which yielded the 1979 NASCAR Sportsman National Championship, Tony accepted a position at Petty Enterprises. Tony explains that the year he spent in Level Cross, North Carolina was the equivalent of a four-year college education. But, when his grandmother became ill in ‘83, he decided to move closer to home to spend time with her. As fate would have it, Larry McClure and Tim Morgan had just bought out G.C. Spencer and established their Morgan-McClure outfit in nearby Abingdon, Virginia and Tony was hired to work as part of the pit crew. Tony shares the story of how he became a crew chief for the team when Spencer, who had stayed on in the chiefing role, quit suddenly during the teching process at an event at Nashville Fairgrounds. This bumped Tony into the position and he remained there for the duration of his time with the outfit. They discuss the revolving roster of drivers Morgan-McClure had during the ‘80s, which included Lennie Pond, Tommy Ellis, Joe Ruttman and Rick Wilson. Tony explains that when Rick departed for RahMoc after ‘89, his choice to fill the seat was the hard charging Ernie Irvan. And while Phil Parsons would start the ‘90 season in the cockpit, after a few failed outings Irvan would eventually get the seat and help put Morgan-McClure on the map. The Irvan-Glover combination was quite successful, bringing home seven Cup wins including the ‘91 Daytona 500, but would only last a few seasons as Irvan would depart for Robert Yates in ‘93. His replacement was a driver Tony was well acquainted with from his years in the late model scene: fellow Tennessean Sterling Marlin. The new pairing won in their first outing, the ‘94 Daytona 500. When they followed up with a back-to-back triumph in the Great American Race in ‘95, they had the entire NASCAR garage looking in their direction. Dale and Tony get into some of the innovation on the plate-track cars in the Morgan-McClure stable. Tony talks about the revolutionary X-pipe exhaust system that was brought to them by Boyd Butler, better known as Dr. Gas. The story of how they kept the technical advantage a secret is incredible, including a non-disclosure agreement and wrapping the car in blankets in the garage. Ultimately a crash photo on the cover of Stock Car Racing Magazine leaked the guarded secret to the world. In ‘97, the desire to move up in rank and a little white lie from his wife convinced Tony to move on from Morgan-McClure and take a management position at SABCO Racing. Tony shares experiences from his years there.After a dismal season in 2011, Tony was released from the team and sought out a position at NASCAR through Mike Helton. In 2013, he became the overseeing technical director of NASCAR’s many touring series, a role he continues to fill today. DIRTY AIR: · NASCAR’s big weeked at Bristol · NextGen parts failures · Dirty Mo Fan Experience recap · Chris Buescher’s big win ASKJR presented by Xfinity: · Impressions about the 2023 NASCAR Cup schedule · Downtown Chicago’s worries about upcoming street race · SAFER barriers at North Wilkesboro · Brandon Jones to JRM To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
02:37:49
20 Sep 22
399 - Real-Time Reaction to Kyle Busch News; Greg Biffle Reflects On Career
On this week’s episode of the Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis catch up with one of his longtime competitors from the NASCAR Cup scene, Washington’s Greg Biffle. After a successful career in NASCAR that spanned nearly two decades, Biffle quietly exited the sport following the 2016 season. Biffle originally hails from Vancouver, Washington, where he spent his formative years working in an automotive machine shop that was owned by his father’s friend. As he became a teenager, Greg discovered his love for driving and going fast and it wasn’t long before he found trouble behind the wheel. In an effort to focus his need for speed into something productive, his father Jack suggested they attend the local Friday night street stock races at Portland Speedway. After their first outing, Greg was hooked and immediately purchased a 1974 Ford Torino to convert into a racecar. Upon building his second street stock, Biffle began to have success at the track and along with it began getting noticed for his fabrication skills. This attention grew into a chassis fabrication business, and Greg went on to build over 50 race cars over the next few years. He also used his earnings to go late model racing and found victory lane many times at both Portland and Tri-City Raceway. The story of how Greg got into NASCAR came when he decided to take the show on the road: heading south to Tucson, Arizona to participate in the NASCAR Winter Heat Series. It was there that he met and befriended NASCAR Hall of Famer Benny Parsons, who was impressed with the unknown racer’s performance. As the story goes, weeks later Parsons was conversing with Jack Roush in the garage area at Michigan International Speedway about Roush’s NASCAR Truck team. Parsons recommended Biffle to Roush, and soon after he received a call from Geoff Smith, who was president of Roush Racing at the time. After a lengthy chat, a contract was faxed over to Greg and the next two decades of his racing career were in motion. Greg and Dale speak on the decline of Roush Racing and the factors that led to the team getting behind the competition. Greg explains that the team failed to progress with the direction of the sport and that it took them a long time to catch up once they were behind. The lack of winning equipment ultimately played a role in Greg leaving Cup racing in 2016, which he explains was a year earlier than his contract stated. The interview also touches on some of Greg’s rivalries over the years and the stories behind them. Greg details his dust-up with Jay Sauter at Richmond and the monetary fine and points penalty that fell on him because of it. As a result, when he and Kevin Harvick made contact at Bristol a year later in 2002, he knew he wanted to avoid a fight at all costs. They also discuss his famous feud with Boris Said at Watkins Glen in 2011, and how a perfectly thrown water bottle exploded into a huge blow-out. Since leaving racing in 2016, Greg has made use of his time by owning and operating a rock quarry as well as a humane shelter. He spends a lot of time outdoors fishing and boating. He has also made time for some racing, including his successful return to the Truck Series for Kyle Busch Motorsports in 2019 and running in the 24 Hours of Lemons. While he still loves auto racing, he has learned to enjoy his weekends off and these days Greg Biffle is making the most of life. DIRTY AIR Before Greg joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Hannah discuss: North Wilkesboro to host the 2023 NASCAR All-Star Race. Dale blowing the lid off of NASCAR’s silly season The future of Kyle Busch, KBM, and Tyler Reddick Bubba’s big win in Kansas ASKJR presented by Xfinity This week the fans asked questions about: Other track revivals Bristol walk-out songs What makes Bristol so exciting Live reactions to the Kyle Busch announcement To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
399 - Real-Time Reaction to Kyle Busch News; Greg Biffle Reflects On Career
On this week’s episode of the Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis catch up with one of his longtime competitors from the NASCAR Cup scene, Washington’s Greg Biffle. After a successful career in NASCAR that spanned nearly two decades, Biffle quietly exited the sport following the 2016 season. Biffle originally hails from Vancouver, Washington, where he spent his formative years working in an automotive machine shop that was owned by his father’s friend. As he became a teenager, Greg discovered his love for driving and going fast and it wasn’t long before he found trouble behind the wheel. In an effort to focus his need for speed into something productive, his father Jack suggested they attend the local Friday night street stock races at Portland Speedway. After their first outing, Greg was hooked and immediately purchased a 1974 Ford Torino to convert into a racecar. Upon building his second street stock, Biffle began to have success at the track and along with it began getting noticed for his fabrication skills. This attention grew into a chassis fabrication business, and Greg went on to build over 50 race cars over the next few years. He also used his earnings to go late model racing and found victory lane many times at both Portland and Tri-City Raceway. The story of how Greg got into NASCAR came when he decided to take the show on the road: heading south to Tucson, Arizona to participate in the NASCAR Winter Heat Series. It was there that he met and befriended NASCAR Hall of Famer Benny Parsons, who was impressed with the unknown racer’s performance. As the story goes, weeks later Parsons was conversing with Jack Roush in the garage area at Michigan International Speedway about Roush’s NASCAR Truck team. Parsons recommended Biffle to Roush, and soon after he received a call from Geoff Smith, who was president of Roush Racing at the time. After a lengthy chat, a contract was faxed over to Greg and the next two decades of his racing career were in motion. Greg and Dale speak on the decline of Roush Racing and the factors that led to the team getting behind the competition. Greg explains that the team failed to progress with the direction of the sport and that it took them a long time to catch up once they were behind. The lack of winning equipment ultimately played a role in Greg leaving Cup racing in 2016, which he explains was a year earlier than his contract stated. The interview also touches on some of Greg’s rivalries over the years and the stories behind them. Greg details his dust-up with Jay Sauter at Richmond and the monetary fine and points penalty that fell on him because of it. As a result, when he and Kevin Harvick made contact at Bristol a year later in 2002, he knew he wanted to avoid a fight at all costs. They also discuss his famous feud with Boris Said at Watkins Glen in 2011, and how a perfectly thrown water bottle exploded into a huge blow-out. Since leaving racing in 2016, Greg has made use of his time by owning and operating a rock quarry as well as a humane shelter. He spends a lot of time outdoors fishing and boating. He has also made time for some racing, including his successful return to the Truck Series for Kyle Busch Motorsports in 2019 and running in the 24 Hours of Lemons. While he still loves auto racing, he has learned to enjoy his weekends off and these days Greg Biffle is making the most of life. DIRTY AIR Before Greg joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Hannah discuss: North Wilkesboro to host the 2023 NASCAR All-Star Race. Dale blowing the lid off of NASCAR’s silly season The future of Kyle Busch, KBM, and Tyler Reddick Bubba’s big win in Kansas ASKJR presented by Xfinity This week the fans asked questions about: Other track revivals Bristol walk-out songs What makes Bristol so exciting Live reactions to the Kyle Busch announcement To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
02:37:04
13 Sep 22
398 - Jimmy Blewett: Racing for Acceptance
Dealing with the adversity that comes from being a race car driver requires resilience and nerves of steel. For Jimmy Blewett, it was a mentality he was born with, following in the footsteps of his hard-nosed grandfather, father, and older brother. On The Dale Jr. Download, Blewett joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss growing up in a tough household, racing in the modified ranks, and losing a loved one in motorsports. Hailing from Howell, New Jersey, the Blewetts have long been known for their rough and tumble nature. Jimmy recounts stories of his grandfather John dealing with unruly customers at the yard. He also shares episodes from his childhood following his father John Jr.’s racing career, where they were “banned for life” from many of the east coast’s finest race establishments due to pit melees. Jimmy shares that initially his grandfather purchased a racecar for his uncle to drive, hoping that it would keep him out of trouble. But his father was so fascinated with the car that he ended up racing and became quite good. He would be a mainstay in the eastern modified ranks for decades, before retiring in the early 90s. About that time, Jimmy’s older brother John III was beginning his own impressive chapter of Blewett family racing history, and it would help pave the way for Jimmy to get on track as well. After getting into go-kart racing at the age of 14, he eventually wanted to build a street stock to run at his home track, Wall Stadium. But Grandpa Blewett disapproved, claiming that his running a street stock would embarrass the family, and one night the car disappeared from the shop, a mystery still unsolved. Through his brother’s help, Jimmy got the opportunity to test someone else’s car, and he was hooked. The story of how Jimmy came to get his first modified is epic, involving a failed effort to get a loan, having to bring his grandfather on as a co-signer, and winning a car show without an engine. Once he was able to scrape together a functioning race car, his challenges were far from over. His grandfather wanted him to start at the back of every race to gain on-track experience. This helped develop his driving ability, and before long Jimmy was a modified race winner. In fact, in his first two full seasons in modified competition at Wall Stadium, he brought home back-to-back season championships. Jimmy speaks candidly about his relationship with his grandfather and father, and how he felt he spent a lot of his career seeking their approval. He also speaks about the mentorship he received from his older brother John III, and how he helped raise Jimmy in the aftermath of his parent’s divorce. The two developed a healthy on-track rivalry, always racing each other for bragging rights of the highest placing Blewett. But as time would tell, no amount of conditioning or hardship could prepare the Blewett family for the loss on the horizon. In August 2007, the Blewett brothers were in competition at Thompson Speedway in Connecticut when Jimmy’s right-front tire was punctured, causing a head-on collision with the wall. Mayhem behind him ensued, and John and several other cars piled into Jimmy’s wrecked modified. Jimmy was knocked unconscious from the impact of the crash, but upon coming to he heard his brother’s screams and jumped out to try and save him. Unfortunately, John’s injuries would prove too critical and he passed away that evening at the age of 33. Suddenly, Jimmy’s entire life had changed and he had an insurmountable tragedy to deal with. DIRTY AIR Before Jimmy joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex, and Hannah chat about: Isla and Nicole’s first day of school A weekend magnet fishing excursion Dale’s late model race at North Wilkesboro The exciting NASCAR weekend at Darlington ASKJR presented by Xfinity This week the fans asked questions about: If Dale has a love for pixie sticks like Mike Davis Staying focused in loud environments Favorite dishes for grilling out To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
398 - Jimmy Blewett: Racing for Acceptance
Dealing with the adversity that comes from being a race car driver requires resilience and nerves of steel. For Jimmy Blewett, it was a mentality he was born with, following in the footsteps of his hard-nosed grandfather, father, and older brother. On The Dale Jr. Download, Blewett joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss growing up in a tough household, racing in the modified ranks, and losing a loved one in motorsports. Hailing from Howell, New Jersey, the Blewetts have long been known for their rough and tumble nature. Jimmy recounts stories of his grandfather John dealing with unruly customers at the yard. He also shares episodes from his childhood following his father John Jr.’s racing career, where they were “banned for life” from many of the east coast’s finest race establishments due to pit melees. Jimmy shares that initially his grandfather purchased a racecar for his uncle to drive, hoping that it would keep him out of trouble. But his father was so fascinated with the car that he ended up racing and became quite good. He would be a mainstay in the eastern modified ranks for decades, before retiring in the early 90s. About that time, Jimmy’s older brother John III was beginning his own impressive chapter of Blewett family racing history, and it would help pave the way for Jimmy to get on track as well. After getting into go-kart racing at the age of 14, he eventually wanted to build a street stock to run at his home track, Wall Stadium. But Grandpa Blewett disapproved, claiming that his running a street stock would embarrass the family, and one night the car disappeared from the shop, a mystery still unsolved. Through his brother’s help, Jimmy got the opportunity to test someone else’s car, and he was hooked. The story of how Jimmy came to get his first modified is epic, involving a failed effort to get a loan, having to bring his grandfather on as a co-signer, and winning a car show without an engine. Once he was able to scrape together a functioning race car, his challenges were far from over. His grandfather wanted him to start at the back of every race to gain on-track experience. This helped develop his driving ability, and before long Jimmy was a modified race winner. In fact, in his first two full seasons in modified competition at Wall Stadium, he brought home back-to-back season championships. Jimmy speaks candidly about his relationship with his grandfather and father, and how he felt he spent a lot of his career seeking their approval. He also speaks about the mentorship he received from his older brother John III, and how he helped raise Jimmy in the aftermath of his parent’s divorce. The two developed a healthy on-track rivalry, always racing each other for bragging rights of the highest placing Blewett. But as time would tell, no amount of conditioning or hardship could prepare the Blewett family for the loss on the horizon. In August 2007, the Blewett brothers were in competition at Thompson Speedway in Connecticut when Jimmy’s right-front tire was punctured, causing a head-on collision with the wall. Mayhem behind him ensued, and John and several other cars piled into Jimmy’s wrecked modified. Jimmy was knocked unconscious from the impact of the crash, but upon coming to he heard his brother’s screams and jumped out to try and save him. Unfortunately, John’s injuries would prove too critical and he passed away that evening at the age of 33. Suddenly, Jimmy’s entire life had changed and he had an insurmountable tragedy to deal with. DIRTY AIR Before Jimmy joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex, and Hannah chat about: Isla and Nicole’s first day of school A weekend magnet fishing excursion Dale’s late model race at North Wilkesboro The exciting NASCAR weekend at Darlington ASKJR presented by Xfinity This week the fans asked questions about: If Dale has a love for pixie sticks like Mike Davis Staying focused in loud environments Favorite dishes for grilling out To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
03:20:23
7 Sep 22
397 - Conor Daly: Man of the People
As drivers follow their trajectory through motorsports, they are often faced with potentially life-changing decisions. On episode 397 of the Dale Jr. Download, Indycar talent Conor Daly joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss a crossroads he faced and how his choice affected his career path. After winning the Star Mazda Championship in 2010 and securing a hefty scholarship fund to invest in his future racing endeavors, Daly had to make the selection of a lifetime: pursue Formula One or Indycar? Son of former Formula One driver Derek Daly and Indianapolis Motor Speedway employee Beth Boles, Conor was no stranger to auto racing. In fact, he begins by saying that he has hardly any early-life memories that don’t involve racing. He recalled his time spent at the Racing Babies childcare facility at IMS and his early infatuation with the sport. He also spoke of his father’s racing career, which ended when he was born in 1991, and how he has been able to uncover more of his accomplishments through the digital age. Up to that point in 2010, Conor had rapidly progressed up the opening rungs of the motorsports ladder. From his first time behind the wheel of a go-kart at age 10 to winning the 2006 World Karting Association Grand Nationals, he and his father Derek worked tirelessly on his burgeoning career. From karts, he took on car racing through the Skip Barber National Championship, which he won in his first year in 2008. Then came the Star Mazda circuit, which of course brings the story to that crossroads at the end of the 2010 season. A stipulation of Conor’s scholarship and the Road to Indy program was that while he could take part of the money and pursue GP3 racing in Europe, he still needed to enter a handful of Indy Lights events. After the first three events of the schedule, competing for Sam Schmidt Motorsports, Conor found himself with a 2nd place finish and a victory and leading the season points. His prospects in the world of Indycar were so high, that he revealed he actually got a call from Graham Rahal as he was about to depart for Europe, asking him, “are you sure you want to do this?” Ultimately, Conor left the United States and departed for England, where he’d stay with Rahal’s stepfather Chris Berry and set up a home base for his time spent racing in GP3. Daly explained that in his debut GP3 race he qualified 29th and was immediately hit with the regret of his decision. In his absence in the Indy Lights series, Josef Newgarden would go on to win the championship and sign a three-year contract with Sarah Fisher Hartman Racing. And while Daly would wind up inking a deal with the Force India Formula One team that would have him serve as a test and reserve driver, his time overseas would prove unfruitful, and he returned home to pursue a path in Indycar. Conor and Dale Jr. discuss Europe’s perspective on American racers and theorize as to why it is difficult for them to break into the Formula racing ladder. After returning home, Daly did whatever he could to be at the tracks on race weekends, even at one point driving the Indycar two-seater for fan experiences. His perseverance would eventually win out, as he rose from filling in for injured drivers to racing part-time and now full-time for Ed Carpenter Racing. Daly took time to speak on the ascension from spending his childhood at IMS to racing in the Indianapolis 500. Just this past May in the 106th running of the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing”, the hometown hero brought home his best finish to date, sixth place. DIRTY AIR Before Conor joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex, and Hannah chat about: Kelley’s birthday bash Long weekend in Daytona The great Cup race rain debacle Kurt Busch’s injury progress ASKJR presented by Xfinity This week the fans asked questions about: Strangest excuse to explain a crash Feelings on Greg Ives’ leaving as crew chief Updates on his ongoing car projects Championship Four predictions To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
397 - Conor Daly: Man of the People
As drivers follow their trajectory through motorsports, they are often faced with potentially life-changing decisions. On episode 397 of the Dale Jr. Download, Indycar talent Conor Daly joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss a crossroads he faced and how his choice affected his career path. After winning the Star Mazda Championship in 2010 and securing a hefty scholarship fund to invest in his future racing endeavors, Daly had to make the selection of a lifetime: pursue Formula One or Indycar? Son of former Formula One driver Derek Daly and Indianapolis Motor Speedway employee Beth Boles, Conor was no stranger to auto racing. In fact, he begins by saying that he has hardly any early-life memories that don’t involve racing. He recalled his time spent at the Racing Babies childcare facility at IMS and his early infatuation with the sport. He also spoke of his father’s racing career, which ended when he was born in 1991, and how he has been able to uncover more of his accomplishments through the digital age. Up to that point in 2010, Conor had rapidly progressed up the opening rungs of the motorsports ladder. From his first time behind the wheel of a go-kart at age 10 to winning the 2006 World Karting Association Grand Nationals, he and his father Derek worked tirelessly on his burgeoning career. From karts, he took on car racing through the Skip Barber National Championship, which he won in his first year in 2008. Then came the Star Mazda circuit, which of course brings the story to that crossroads at the end of the 2010 season. A stipulation of Conor’s scholarship and the Road to Indy program was that while he could take part of the money and pursue GP3 racing in Europe, he still needed to enter a handful of Indy Lights events. After the first three events of the schedule, competing for Sam Schmidt Motorsports, Conor found himself with a 2nd place finish and a victory and leading the season points. His prospects in the world of Indycar were so high, that he revealed he actually got a call from Graham Rahal as he was about to depart for Europe, asking him, “are you sure you want to do this?” Ultimately, Conor left the United States and departed for England, where he’d stay with Rahal’s stepfather Chris Berry and set up a home base for his time spent racing in GP3. Daly explained that in his debut GP3 race he qualified 29th and was immediately hit with the regret of his decision. In his absence in the Indy Lights series, Josef Newgarden would go on to win the championship and sign a three-year contract with Sarah Fisher Hartman Racing. And while Daly would wind up inking a deal with the Force India Formula One team that would have him serve as a test and reserve driver, his time overseas would prove unfruitful, and he returned home to pursue a path in Indycar. Conor and Dale Jr. discuss Europe’s perspective on American racers and theorize as to why it is difficult for them to break into the Formula racing ladder. After returning home, Daly did whatever he could to be at the tracks on race weekends, even at one point driving the Indycar two-seater for fan experiences. His perseverance would eventually win out, as he rose from filling in for injured drivers to racing part-time and now full-time for Ed Carpenter Racing. Daly took time to speak on the ascension from spending his childhood at IMS to racing in the Indianapolis 500. Just this past May in the 106th running of the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing”, the hometown hero brought home his best finish to date, sixth place. DIRTY AIR Before Conor joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex, and Hannah chat about: Kelley’s birthday bash Long weekend in Daytona The great Cup race rain debacle Kurt Busch’s injury progress ASKJR presented by Xfinity This week the fans asked questions about: Strangest excuse to explain a crash Feelings on Greg Ives’ leaving as crew chief Updates on his ongoing car projects Championship Four predictions To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
03:10:25
30 Aug 22
396 - Freddie Query: Hometown Hero
On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Query sits down with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to talk about that racing landscape and how he rose to prominence there. Dale prefaced the interview by describing Freddie as someone he both looked up to and was intimidated by while growing up at the Carolina short tracks. Query’s reputation as a hard racer and champion preceded him for many years. But like most short-track racers, he came from humble, quiet beginnings in Kannapolis. In fact, Freddie explained that he shared a first-grade classroom with another Kannapolis racing legend, Dale Earnhardt Sr. himself. The two even ran go-karts together in their pre-teen years on a crude dirt track a neighbor had carved out on his property. Ultimately, the two drivers had vastly different life trajectories, and their connection remained pleasant but distant. While finishing high school, Freddie had ambitions to attend college to be an engineer, but after getting married during his senior year his life changed direction. He began attending a tech school and taking trade programs, and when the local school district wanted to begin implementing trade classes on a high school level, Query found himself in a teaching position, one he would hold for 20 years. The go-kart he raced at age 10 was built from a bed frame rail and propelled by his father’s lawn mower engine. His mechanical wonder carried on to his teenage years when he began “borrowing” the family car to enter street races, unbeknownst to his parents. But his path in racing would have stalled out on the streets of Kannapolis, had he not started attending local races at the recommendation of a neighbor. After buying a new house as a teacher, he became acquainted with the folks next store, who were avid racing fans attending events multiple nights a week. He took a trip to Hickory Speedway with them and was hooked from the get-go, deciding then he wanted to be a part of the sport. The neighbor was one step ahead, installing a race shop in his backyard, and soon Freddie was out there with him every night of the week. The two built a street stock and took it to Metrolina on a Friday night, with the neighbor hopping in the driver’s seat. But the following evening, when they had planned to try Hickory, the neighbor was too tired from the previous night’s action and turned the driving duties over to Freddie. And while he ended up flipping due to an aggressive move to pass, the racing bug had bit him, and the course for his next 30 years was set. In the early 1980s he was a dominant force in the six-cylinder division, before moving up to super late models in '85. Freddie was recognized by his red No.6 hot rod which he drove to countless victories. When Concord received the blacktop treatment towards the end of the '86 season, Freddie was prepared to say goodbye to the track he had so much success at, but when Coors threatened to reduce their sponsorship, he decided to give the asphalt another go. Hence would begin the most dominant period in the track’s history. From 1988 to 1992, Freddie brought home 4 out of 5 track championships, while battling it out with the likes of Jack Sprague, Rich Bickle and Robbie Faggart. His success in the high-paying Big-10 Series helped propel him to bigger events, and in '93 he began running with the NASCAR All-Pro tour. He brought home major victories in the Myrtle Beach 400 and All-American 400, as well as the '98 All-Pro season championship before settling into a car builder/mentor role. He went on to assist the likes of Hank Parker Jr., Johanna Long, Harrison Burton and many more before retiring from competitive racing. Today, Freddie still dabbles in go-kart racing and car repair but basks in the glory of his storied career and the acclaim that comes with it. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
396 - Freddie Query: Hometown Hero
On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Query sits down with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to talk about that racing landscape and how he rose to prominence there. Dale prefaced the interview by describing Freddie as someone he both looked up to and was intimidated by while growing up at the Carolina short tracks. Query’s reputation as a hard racer and champion preceded him for many years. But like most short-track racers, he came from humble, quiet beginnings in Kannapolis. In fact, Freddie explained that he shared a first-grade classroom with another Kannapolis racing legend, Dale Earnhardt Sr. himself. The two even ran go-karts together in their pre-teen years on a crude dirt track a neighbor had carved out on his property. Ultimately, the two drivers had vastly different life trajectories, and their connection remained pleasant but distant. While finishing high school, Freddie had ambitions to attend college to be an engineer, but after getting married during his senior year his life changed direction. He began attending a tech school and taking trade programs, and when the local school district wanted to begin implementing trade classes on a high school level, Query found himself in a teaching position, one he would hold for 20 years. The go-kart he raced at age 10 was built from a bed frame rail and propelled by his father’s lawn mower engine. His mechanical wonder carried on to his teenage years when he began “borrowing” the family car to enter street races, unbeknownst to his parents. But his path in racing would have stalled out on the streets of Kannapolis, had he not started attending local races at the recommendation of a neighbor. After buying a new house as a teacher, he became acquainted with the folks next store, who were avid racing fans attending events multiple nights a week. He took a trip to Hickory Speedway with them and was hooked from the get-go, deciding then he wanted to be a part of the sport. The neighbor was one step ahead, installing a race shop in his backyard, and soon Freddie was out there with him every night of the week. The two built a street stock and took it to Metrolina on a Friday night, with the neighbor hopping in the driver’s seat. But the following evening, when they had planned to try Hickory, the neighbor was too tired from the previous night’s action and turned the driving duties over to Freddie. And while he ended up flipping due to an aggressive move to pass, the racing bug had bit him, and the course for his next 30 years was set. In the early 1980s he was a dominant force in the six-cylinder division, before moving up to super late models in '85. Freddie was recognized by his red No.6 hot rod which he drove to countless victories. When Concord received the blacktop treatment towards the end of the '86 season, Freddie was prepared to say goodbye to the track he had so much success at, but when Coors threatened to reduce their sponsorship, he decided to give the asphalt another go. Hence would begin the most dominant period in the track’s history. From 1988 to 1992, Freddie brought home 4 out of 5 track championships, while battling it out with the likes of Jack Sprague, Rich Bickle and Robbie Faggart. His success in the high-paying Big-10 Series helped propel him to bigger events, and in '93 he began running with the NASCAR All-Pro tour. He brought home major victories in the Myrtle Beach 400 and All-American 400, as well as the '98 All-Pro season championship before settling into a car builder/mentor role. He went on to assist the likes of Hank Parker Jr., Johanna Long, Harrison Burton and many more before retiring from competitive racing. Today, Freddie still dabbles in go-kart racing and car repair but basks in the glory of his storied career and the acclaim that comes with it. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
02:47:34
23 Aug 22
395 - Michael "Fatback" McSwain: Racing is Sacred
At the end of the 2007 NASCAR Cup season, Michael “Fatback” McSwain suddenly departed from the garage scene, leaving a void once filled by one of the most colorful personalities in the modern stock car era. On this week’s Dale Jr. Download, McSwain joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss the decision to leave the sport, as well as the path he traveled to get to the top. Coming from the humble home of a phone company worker, McSwain did not grow from racing roots. After graduating from high school with no real direction, he decided to travel to Nashville to attend a diesel mechanic’s college. It was during this time that he became familiar with racing and upon returning back to North Carolina, he wanted to give it a shot himself. He and his father built a demolition derby car for the Cleveland County Fair, and had so much fun in the process that they embarked on six-cylinder racing at Cherokee Speedway. But the further they got into the racing, the more expensive it got, and soon McSwain was left to find solutions to subsidize his own on-track endeavors. He began working on other people’s race cars, ultimately finding a spot in the Robert Gee garage where a local racer was working on a NASCAR Sportsman Division ride. McSwain explained that working under Gee was very influential and taught him a lot in a short amount of time. It also helped him realize that he wanted to work in auto racing full-time. McSwain recalled driving to many different race shops and turning in applications before finally getting a call from Lake Speed’s racing operation to come and work as a fabricator. This would be his first experience working on a Cup car, and over the next few seasons he would bounce from operation to operation, spending time working under legends such as Harry Hyde and Cale Yarborough before finally ending up with Ricky Rudd at Rudd Racing Enterprises. In 2000, Rudd inked a deal to race with Yates Racing, and McSwain assumed he was once again on the job hunt. However, a few days before his honeymoon he received a call of a lifetime from Robert Yates offering him the crew chief position. McSwain explains he cut his honeymoon a few days short because he was excited to get to work in a real, full-time race shop. The Rudd/McSwain duo delivered “Fatback'' his first Cup victory in June 2001 at Pocono Raceway. McSwain shares a story of how the car came together after a mad scramble the week of the race, and the result was a completely dominant performance. He also shares a hilarious encounter with Kevin Harvick during the waning laps of the September Richmond race that same season, a situation that may have landed him in serious hot water had it come to fruition. When the decision was made to release Rudd and bring in Elliott Sadler, McSwain jumped ship and headed to Joe Gibbs Racing to man the pit box for Bobby Labonte. All was far from well though, and rising turmoil amongst the team would leave McSwain without a job. The conversation deals a lot with driver/crew chief relationships and dialogue, and McSwain offers up stories of disagreements he had with Rudd and Bobby Labonte over the years. He explains that driver attitudes over the radio during a race can affect a whole team, and when the situation reached a breaking point he felt inclined to intervene. Finally, the interview covers McSwain’s seemingly abrupt departure from the NASCAR garage scene following the 2007 season. He explains that having growing children at home influenced his decision, but now that they’re older he is open to a return to the racing world. DIRTY AIR Before Michael joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Hannah discuss: • Magnet fishing • Wild world of TikTok • Chris(topher) Buescher • Roots & Revival ASKJR presented by Xfinity: • Racing on dirt • Are drivers retiring earlier? • What FOX scheduled race would you like to call? • Bingeable television shows To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
395 - Michael "Fatback" McSwain: Racing is Sacred
At the end of the 2007 NASCAR Cup season, Michael “Fatback” McSwain suddenly departed from the garage scene, leaving a void once filled by one of the most colorful personalities in the modern stock car era. On this week’s Dale Jr. Download, McSwain joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss the decision to leave the sport, as well as the path he traveled to get to the top. Coming from the humble home of a phone company worker, McSwain did not grow from racing roots. After graduating from high school with no real direction, he decided to travel to Nashville to attend a diesel mechanic’s college. It was during this time that he became familiar with racing and upon returning back to North Carolina, he wanted to give it a shot himself. He and his father built a demolition derby car for the Cleveland County Fair, and had so much fun in the process that they embarked on six-cylinder racing at Cherokee Speedway. But the further they got into the racing, the more expensive it got, and soon McSwain was left to find solutions to subsidize his own on-track endeavors. He began working on other people’s race cars, ultimately finding a spot in the Robert Gee garage where a local racer was working on a NASCAR Sportsman Division ride. McSwain explained that working under Gee was very influential and taught him a lot in a short amount of time. It also helped him realize that he wanted to work in auto racing full-time. McSwain recalled driving to many different race shops and turning in applications before finally getting a call from Lake Speed’s racing operation to come and work as a fabricator. This would be his first experience working on a Cup car, and over the next few seasons he would bounce from operation to operation, spending time working under legends such as Harry Hyde and Cale Yarborough before finally ending up with Ricky Rudd at Rudd Racing Enterprises. In 2000, Rudd inked a deal to race with Yates Racing, and McSwain assumed he was once again on the job hunt. However, a few days before his honeymoon he received a call of a lifetime from Robert Yates offering him the crew chief position. McSwain explains he cut his honeymoon a few days short because he was excited to get to work in a real, full-time race shop. The Rudd/McSwain duo delivered “Fatback'' his first Cup victory in June 2001 at Pocono Raceway. McSwain shares a story of how the car came together after a mad scramble the week of the race, and the result was a completely dominant performance. He also shares a hilarious encounter with Kevin Harvick during the waning laps of the September Richmond race that same season, a situation that may have landed him in serious hot water had it come to fruition. When the decision was made to release Rudd and bring in Elliott Sadler, McSwain jumped ship and headed to Joe Gibbs Racing to man the pit box for Bobby Labonte. All was far from well though, and rising turmoil amongst the team would leave McSwain without a job. The conversation deals a lot with driver/crew chief relationships and dialogue, and McSwain offers up stories of disagreements he had with Rudd and Bobby Labonte over the years. He explains that driver attitudes over the radio during a race can affect a whole team, and when the situation reached a breaking point he felt inclined to intervene. Finally, the interview covers McSwain’s seemingly abrupt departure from the NASCAR garage scene following the 2007 season. He explains that having growing children at home influenced his decision, but now that they’re older he is open to a return to the racing world. DIRTY AIR Before Michael joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Hannah discuss: • Magnet fishing • Wild world of TikTok • Chris(topher) Buescher • Roots & Revival ASKJR presented by Xfinity: • Racing on dirt • Are drivers retiring earlier? • What FOX scheduled race would you like to call? • Bingeable television shows To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
02:46:40
16 Aug 22
394 - Ty Gibbs: Growing Up Gibbs
In just a few short seasons, Ty Gibbs went from winning in the periphery of the stock car world to becoming one of the most polarizing characters in the NASCAR garage. On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Ty joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio to discuss his meteoric rise to becoming a focal point in motorsports. Gibbs stunned onlookers when he won the February 2021 NASCAR Xfinity Series event at the Daytona Road Course, in what was his first attempt in the division. After starting deep in the pack on a late restart, Gibbs put on a driving display that saw him pass several cars and even drive through the grass to take the point, holding off accomplished road racer Austin Cindric in the process. The victory would make history, as it made Gibbs the first driver in the modern NASCAR era to win a national series event in his first attempt. While Ty has come off as soft-spoken in many of his public interviews, he gives The Download listeners a rare look into his home life, filling Dale and Mike in about his siblings and new townhouse. After Kurt Busch’s recent hard crash at Pocono, Ty received the call to fill in at the last moment, minutes after finishing second in the Saturday afternoon Xfinity event. He explained that to best prepare for the challenge of driving a car he had zero experience in, he retreated home to run laps on his sim racing setup and sleep in his own bed before returning to Pocono early the next morning for the Cup race. The interview covers Ty’s early years in racing, from competing in shifter karts at venues like the GoPro Motorplex to running late model stock cars on the prestigious CARS tour. He recalls the moment he knew he wanted to pursue a career in racing came after his grandfather Joe, whom he affectionately refers to as “Coach”, took him and his cousin to test a go-kart at Millbridge Speedway. When Mike asked if he has ever struggled with getting acclimated to any type of race vehicle, Ty explained the challenge in transitioning from karts to late models and how it took a couple of years to get comfortable. At one point, he was racing his kart full-time while testing a late model at Hickory Speedway during the week. Dale and Ty dig into the challenge of dealing with the public perception of coming from an established racing family. Ty gave some insight into how he tunes out the criticism he faces, finding that focusing on his love for motorsports keeps him motivated to move forward. Many young racers are forced to grow up in the public eye, and Gibbs talks about his ongoing maturation in dealing with conflicts both on the track and off. Ty’s future has been a hot topic of discussion as he continues to find success in the Xfinity Series and now filling in at 23XI Racing in Kurt Busch’s absence. He explains he ultimately wants to race in many different types of cars, mirroring the career path of Kyle Larson, whom he looks up to in many regards. They also discuss the future of Joe Gibbs Racing and what roles Ty may see himself in as the years roll on. This year in the Xfinity Series, one of the main storylines to watch has been JR Motorsports versus Ty Gibbs. And while usually, you’d never invite your competition into your very race shop, Dale Jr. recognizes that Ty is going to be a part of motorsports for many years to come and is choosing to embrace him. DIRTY AIR Before Ty joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Hannah discuss: New Kyle Petty shirts available on the DirtyMoMedia.com Dale’s play-by-play commentary at Michigan Bubba Wallace’s passionate post-race interview The modified race opener at North Wilkesboro ASKJR presented by Xfinity This week the fans asked about: The future’s perspective on today’s NASCAR world Racing left-handed Dale’s most prized vintage t-shirt Applying Mike Joy’s commentary advice To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
394 - Ty Gibbs: Growing Up Gibbs
In just a few short seasons, Ty Gibbs went from winning in the periphery of the stock car world to becoming one of the most polarizing characters in the NASCAR garage. On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Ty joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio to discuss his meteoric rise to becoming a focal point in motorsports. Gibbs stunned onlookers when he won the February 2021 NASCAR Xfinity Series event at the Daytona Road Course, in what was his first attempt in the division. After starting deep in the pack on a late restart, Gibbs put on a driving display that saw him pass several cars and even drive through the grass to take the point, holding off accomplished road racer Austin Cindric in the process. The victory would make history, as it made Gibbs the first driver in the modern NASCAR era to win a national series event in his first attempt. While Ty has come off as soft-spoken in many of his public interviews, he gives The Download listeners a rare look into his home life, filling Dale and Mike in about his siblings and new townhouse. After Kurt Busch’s recent hard crash at Pocono, Ty received the call to fill in at the last moment, minutes after finishing second in the Saturday afternoon Xfinity event. He explained that to best prepare for the challenge of driving a car he had zero experience in, he retreated home to run laps on his sim racing setup and sleep in his own bed before returning to Pocono early the next morning for the Cup race. The interview covers Ty’s early years in racing, from competing in shifter karts at venues like the GoPro Motorplex to running late model stock cars on the prestigious CARS tour. He recalls the moment he knew he wanted to pursue a career in racing came after his grandfather Joe, whom he affectionately refers to as “Coach”, took him and his cousin to test a go-kart at Millbridge Speedway. When Mike asked if he has ever struggled with getting acclimated to any type of race vehicle, Ty explained the challenge in transitioning from karts to late models and how it took a couple of years to get comfortable. At one point, he was racing his kart full-time while testing a late model at Hickory Speedway during the week. Dale and Ty dig into the challenge of dealing with the public perception of coming from an established racing family. Ty gave some insight into how he tunes out the criticism he faces, finding that focusing on his love for motorsports keeps him motivated to move forward. Many young racers are forced to grow up in the public eye, and Gibbs talks about his ongoing maturation in dealing with conflicts both on the track and off. Ty’s future has been a hot topic of discussion as he continues to find success in the Xfinity Series and now filling in at 23XI Racing in Kurt Busch’s absence. He explains he ultimately wants to race in many different types of cars, mirroring the career path of Kyle Larson, whom he looks up to in many regards. They also discuss the future of Joe Gibbs Racing and what roles Ty may see himself in as the years roll on. This year in the Xfinity Series, one of the main storylines to watch has been JR Motorsports versus Ty Gibbs. And while usually, you’d never invite your competition into your very race shop, Dale Jr. recognizes that Ty is going to be a part of motorsports for many years to come and is choosing to embrace him. DIRTY AIR Before Ty joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Hannah discuss: New Kyle Petty shirts available on the DirtyMoMedia.com Dale’s play-by-play commentary at Michigan Bubba Wallace’s passionate post-race interview The modified race opener at North Wilkesboro ASKJR presented by Xfinity This week the fans asked about: The future’s perspective on today’s NASCAR world Racing left-handed Dale’s most prized vintage t-shirt Applying Mike Joy’s commentary advice To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
02:31:42
9 Aug 22
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