Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club Podcast

They were three very-special Firebirds in 1968.  Born as regular convertibles from the factory, they were purchased and customized by George Barris for a specific pupose...as prizes for a television series on ABC-TV in 1968!  Brian Dale joins us to tell us the story of the 'Superteen' Firebirds, or 'BratMobiles' as George himself nicknamed them.  Brian's late father Jack was the one to find and restore the only surviving car!    Thanks again to our fabulous partners! AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION

Time to talk with event Chairman JIM SUVA about the 31st Annual Indian Uprising All-Pontiac Weekend coming up in August.  We'll cover what's new for the show this year and what we are doing at the event to attract new and younger members to the hobby. Thanks again to our fabulous partners! AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART

This is part II of our chat with Wayne from the TV show 'Chasing Classic Cars' and F40 Motorsports.  He talks about his appreciation of Pontiac, his favorite Pontiac model of all, and the one Pontiac that got away.  He also has good advice for all of us on how to encourage younger generations to get involved in the hobby!     Thanks again to our fabulous partners! AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART

If you are into vintage and classic vehicles, then you know Wayne Carini!  This is part one of two in our chat with Wayne from the TV show 'Chasing Classic Cars' and F40 Motorsports.  He talks about his beginnings in the hobby, how the tv show came to be, and our favorite subject, PONTIAC! Thanks again to our fabulous partners! AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION

Have a listen to the story of 'BIG CHIEF' - a 1962 Super Duty Pontiac Catalina - as told by current owner Sam Williford.  This car spend quality time on drag strips in the South during the 60's.  Enjoy a few twists and turns in this story of a Super Duty Cat!  Thanks again to our fabulous partners! AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION

This is the second part of a two-part series with Don Keefe on the subject of Pontiac concept and show cars from the decade of the 1970's.  Find his book here!  Thanks again to our fabulous partners! AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION

For this installment of PONTIAC TALK, we reconnect with our old friend Don Keefe for more on the discussion of Pontiac concept and show cars. This part one of two regarding the subject in the decade of the 1970's.  Lots of great info here.  Enjoy! Thanks again to our fabulous partners! AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION

It's hard enough finding vintage Pontiacs in good original condition, let alone a low mileage cars in great condition.  Our guest Scott Mancini has done it, not once...but twice!  Listen in to hear about Scott's cars and how he got his start in this hobby we all enjoy. Thanks again to our fabulous partners! AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART

This is part 2 of our chat with guest Carl Stevenson of Canadian Poncho on Facebook. Carl is a passionate wealth of knowledge who spent years in the automotive parts business in his home country. We'll continue our discussion on the unique Canadian Pontiac models and their similarities/differences from Pontiacs here in the USA. He'll also run down a few of the cars he's had over the years, leading to the one he has now.   Thanks again to our fabulous partners! AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION

With our guest Carl Stevenson, we'll go north of the border for this episode to discuss the subject of Canadian Pontiacs. Carl is a passionate wealth of knowledge who spent years in the automotive parts business in his home country. We'll discuss the models and their similarities/differences between Canada and the USA. Lots of information and insight. This is part one of two! Thanks again to our great sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART

Dedicated Pontiac author and enthusiast Rocky Rotella is our guest for this episode of PONTIAC TALK!  We talk to Rocky about his beginnings in the hobby, how he came to be a respected author on the subject, his personal collection, and the one that got away...well, sorta. AND, we touch upon the history of Pontiac's high-output motor and how you can get close to an H.O. set-up in your own restorations!   Thanks again to our fabulous partners! AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION          

This time around we talk to a truly unique guy, someone who alone is responsible for rescuing and rehoming thousands of Pontiacs over the years - and wow does he have some stories to tell!  Steve Snyder of Snyder's Junkyard is our guest this time on Pontiac Talk! Thanks again to our fabulous partners! AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION

The triumphant return of the Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals (MCACN) featured many stunning Pontiacs on display.  Among them, a very special GTO was unveiled on the first day of the show.  A GTO that was on display at the 2019 MCACN show.  Although this time it looked a bit different, to say the least!  For this installment of Pontiac Talk, we chat with owner Paul Lesiczka about this very special GTO.  Thanks again to our great partners! AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION

For this episode we'll have a preview of this year's Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals - otherwise known as MCACN - from it's creator Bob Ashton!  We'll discuss the cancellation of last years event and how he and his staff plan to make up for lost time this year!  Bob will also have details on a few Pontiac-focused attractions planned for the show. Thanks again to our great sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART

Jim Hallman of Northern Illinois Fiero Enthusiasts joins us to talk about all-things Fiero. We'll cover this Pontiac model from tip to tail and discuss the car itself, the philosophy behind its creation and manufacturing, it's collectability over the years, and how Fiero enthusiasts might be a bit different than you're typical Pontiac collector. Of course, he'll have some great personal stories on how he found his way to the Fiero model over 30 years ago. Lot's to learn about this iconic 80's Pontiac! Thanks again to our great partners! AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION

We talk to Rob Keil, author of Art Fitzpatrick & Van Kaufman - Masters Of The Art Of Automobile Advertising about his book just recently released.  It is a stunning and detailed presentation of the work of these two iconic advertising artists.  We discuss the origin of the book, his background, and artists themselves. Be sure to listen all the way for details on how you can enter a random drawing to win a copy of this book! (contest deadline 10/15/2021 at 12m CDT)   Thanks again to our great partners! AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION

This time around we talk to a dedicated Pontiac collector, Loren Hulber of Pennsylvania.  He is a true collector - of ALL things Pontiac!  Listen in to hear what he's collected over the years. Thanks again to our great sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART

At the 30th Annual Cruisin' Tigers Indian Uprising All-Pontiac Weekend we talked to Dan Purcell of Purcell Performance and Restoration about the very-special Pontiac they unveiled at this years show - a 1 of 8 factory-built Catalina for 1963 Daytona Speed Week!   Thanks again to our great partners! AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION  

We chat with Kevin about some new developments (products and otherwise) at AMES this year.  He'll preview the 2021 Ames Performance Pontiac Nationals, remember the late Steve Ames with a story or two, and share details on his newest acquisition to his personal Pontiac collection. Thanks again to our great sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION

On this edition, we discuss the return of the Cruisin' Tigers Indian Uprising All-Pontiac Weekend with Event Chairman and Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club Board Member Jim Suva.  We talk about all aspects of the show; new venue, features, and more.  Plus, Jim has a connection to a very special Pontiac.  Thanks again to our great sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION

Here is part two of our chat with author Dean Fait about his new book; Arnie "The Farmer" Beswick.  Dean talks about the ups and downs of Arnie's rise to fame behind the wheel of Pontiac Dragsters over the years.  Listen closely as you'll hear a few stories that are not in the book! Thanks again to our great sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART

Author Dean Fait joins us here for the first of two episodes as we talk about his new book; Arnie "The Farmer" Beswick.  Dean talks of his long association with Arnie and how he came to write the book.  You will also hear few stories that are not in this book.   Thanks again to our great sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION Be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club!  Sign up here

This is part four in a series featuring the legend Jim Wangers.  Mark Zander talked to Jim back in 2009 about all things Pontiac.  In this episode, Jim talks specifically about how GM went ahead to give the 'OK' for the GTO, and that famous Car & Driver Magazine road test featuring this new model for Pontiac and Ferrari's GTO. Thanks again to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here

We talk with the experts, and we with the average Joe's (and Jill's!) about our favorite subject, Pontiac!  Our guest for this episode is a hobbyist for over 40 years - John Hugentober.  We can all thank John for being one of the early enthusiasts to bring the hobby to social media.  Chances are you have either followed one of his pages, seen images of one of his cars, or even talked to him online.  This is a guy who lives and breathes Pontiac!     Thanks again to our great sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION Be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club!  Sign up here

We welcome back to the podcast, Don Keefe.  Automotive historian, author, and Editor-In-Chief of PONCHO PERFECTION magazine, an exclusive publication available to all members of the Cruisin' Tiger Pontiac Club. This is part one of a multi-part series on Pontiac Concept Cars! Thanks again to our great sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART Be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club!  Sign up here

In our pursuit of knowledge regarding all types of Pontiac models and options, Mark Zander talks to Kevin Guido about the rare 70's T-37 and GT-37 options. They will discuss the origins and specifics, and how Kevin has come to know about these cars first hand.     Thanks again to our great sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION Be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club!  Sign up here  

We've talked to some well-known personalities in the Pontiac hobby here on the podcast, but we also want to share the stories and experiences from the average PMD collector and hobbyist.  Meet John Piotrowski.  A fellow Chicago-area native, John talks to host Mark Zander about his 35 years of buying/selling/and restoring Pontiacs, including his two latest projects! Thanks again to our great sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION

By popular demand - here now is part three in a continuing series featuring the legend Jim Wangers.  Mark Zander talked to Jim back in 2009 about all things Pontiac.  In this episode, more about the early years of the GTO...it's development, marketing and impact.  Enjoy! Thanks again to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here

This is part two in a series featuring the legend Jim Wangers.  Mark Zander talked to Jim back in 2009 about all things Pontiac.  In this episode, it's all about the early years for Pontiacs masterpiece; The GTO Thanks again to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here

As suggested by a Pontiac Talk listener, Mark and Paul each reveal and discuss the top 5 Pontiacs they would like to own. Not an easy task!  Thanks again to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here

Way back in 2009 - Host Mark Zander had this idea for a podcast, one in which had we talk about vintage Pontiacs and those involved in making, advertising, and collecting Pontiacs.  He was lucky enough to have recorded several interview with a very important gentleman to the rise and sustained success of Pontiac in the 60's and 70's, Jim Wangers.  This is episode 1 wiht Jim from the vaults.  Enjoy! Thanks again to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE & RESTORATION Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here

As Pontiac nuts we all known about the big motors - 400, 428, 455 - and even the smaller ones, like the 326 and 350.  This week we talk to Jim Black.  He is what you would call a 'Cammer' - that is an enthusiast of the OHC 6 motor found in LeMans, Tempest, and Firebird models during the latter half of the sixties.  As a matter of fact, he created the OHC6.com registry.  That makes him 'Head Cammer'!  Listen in and learn about this motor and what makes them so special. Thanks again to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART TTA PERFORMANCE Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here

You know the voice.  Now hear the voice of John Kraman from Mecum talk about his unique history of, and love for, Pontiacs! You may be surprised.  John also talks about his role at Mecum and what specific Pontiac has been part of his personal collection since 1976. Thanks again to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART TTA PERFORMANCE Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here

Mark and Paul talk to the current 'caretaker' of the late Pontiac author/enthusiast Paul Zazarine's 1966 GTO.  Mark Williams will share his personal story and how he ended up with this famous piece of Pontiac history. Thanks as always to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE

Keith joins us to talk about Pontiac's relationship with NASCAR and share his personal knowledge and stories of the vintage Pontiac race cars he now has in his own personal collection!   Thanks again to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART TTA PERFORMANCE Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here

Mark and Paul talk about The Crusin' Tigers Pontiac Club and how you can get involved in helping to shape the future of the club and annual The Indian Uprising meet for years to come, starting August of 2021! Thanks as always to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here

This time around we're talking to a fellow hobbyist, Andre Rayman. You may already know Andre. He has been a Pontiac guy for years that has been known to share his stash of acquired parts (for a fair price) with others who need them. Paul Weinstein has been a customer.  Maybe you have to?  He shares his story and his collection with us. Thanks again to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART TTA PERFORMANCE Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here

Vic Shrek joins us to talk about the GTOAA and his own personal Pontiac collection.  We also get around to discussing the return of the GTO in 2004 and how all Pontiac fans must stick together! Thanks again to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here

This is Part II of our chat with Jim Mattison, President and Founder of PHS (Pontiac Historical Services).  More great stories about Pontiacs, some that never existed and some that (surprisingly!) do.  Jim also has some solid tips to follow when you are looking to buy your next vintage Pontiac. Thanks again to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART TTA PERFORMANCE Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here

This time around we have none other than Jim Mattison, President and Founder of PHS (Pontiac Historical Services), talking about his experiences in the car business and how his company became the one and only resource to validate our vintage Pontiacs!  This is the first of two episodes to feature Jim - lots of ground to cover! Thanks again to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART PURCELL PERFORMANCE Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here          

Listen in as Joe from TTA PERFORMANCE tells us why he actually loves the Pontiac 301 and how he's turned his Pontiac hobby into a thriving turbo-charged business that boasts customers world wide! Thanks again to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here

Ron and John Berglund join Mark and Paul to discuss their specific passion within the hobby - The Pontiac 2+2.  Hear the story of a father and son completing not one, but TWO nut and bolt restorations!  Great info and history on this big-bodied beauty.  They will also give us few 'Tech Tips' to stick in our back pocket. Thanks again to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here

Pontiac enthusiast Jody Carter joins us for episode #8 to share his passion and knowledge of Pontiac Motor Division's commercial and service vehicle offerings throughout the years.  He'll also provide us quite a useful 'Tech Tip'. Thanks again to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here  

On this episode, Mark and Paul talk about the new reality of sheltering in place during the COVID 19 pandemic and movies that feature (prominently or otherwise) our favorite GM brand - Pontiacs!  Thanks to our sponsors AMES PERFORMANCE and AUTOSMART.  Please support them if you can during these tough times for small businesses.  Stay safe and healthy!  

In this episode we talk to Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club member Brian Caldwell from AUTO SMART Brian will provide tips for anyone selling or buying a vintage car.  We'll also get to know our Featured Cruisin' Tiger member Mark Balinski! Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here

Host Mark Zander and Indian Uprising Co-Chairman Paul Weinstein talk all about what led to the cancellation of this years event, and what we can expect for 2021.

In this episode we talk to Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club member and acting club President Randy Ray about valuation and give you an idea of what Pontiac's are trending up in value for 2020.  We'll also get to know our Featured Cruisin' Tiger Mike Clarke! Thanks again to our sponsors; AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here

In this episode we feature Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club member Bill Nawrot.  He's been a long-time GTO owner that bought his first "Goat" in 1967!  He has a few must-hear stories and our Pontiac Talk 'Tech Tip'. Thanks again to our sponsors! AMES PERFORMANCE AUTO SMART Sign up to be a member of the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club here

On this episode of Pontiac Talk, we learn about how Kevin got into the hobby (...a great story) and how he came to own and operate Ames Performance

Sign up for Indian Uprising 2020 right here.

Show host Mark Zander talks with Paul Weinstein of The Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac Club and Don Keefe, Editor of Poncho Perfection about their connection to Pontiac's and what you can expect from this new and exclusive podcast focused on the Pontiac hobby!