Drive With Dave

Newbie or seasoned driver, road racing is a sport that demands the right car, the right mindset, and lots of practice. If you have decided you want to drive fast on the race track, you will want to meet Bart Wolf. People kept telling me how this guy in Wisconsin was truly passionate about helping amateur racing enthusiasts experience the thrill of motor sports, and we spent a while together as he explained how he became so focused on introducing amateur drivers to becoming faster on the track. Wolf Motorsports is situated a mile or so from the famous Road America Race Track in Elkhart Lake Wisconsin, just a few short hours north of Chicago. In this podcast, Bart talks about his operation, his decades of experience building, maintaining and restoring racing machines, and his dedication to the needs of both amateur and professional racing drivers.

John Delane has driven 106 tracks, more than 400 events in more than 21 countries! 34 years of road racing has taken him around the world in a quest for the perfect lap. Join me as our conversation talks about his 2 Formula One cars, Jackie Stewart, and here his advice on how to become one of the best sports car drivers!!

Ex-NFL Brett Miller sits down with me to talk about his 10 years in professional football, and later how he ended up in front of the TV cameras at KTLA, Los Angeles. Brett talks about the draft, concussions, and a dozen painful surgeries just to keep playing because he knows there's 1000 other guys waiting to take his place. When the money comes so did the good times, and we talk about professional athletes and their passion for exotic cars, and a lifestyle most only dream of. From his first car to what he's owned and what he wants to buy next. Ands finally, Brett opens up about life's lessons learned in the NFL, and why he wants to share those lessons with the world.

Driven by speed? So is Francesco D'Avola, owner of Team Stradale at the Autobahn in Joliet, Illinois. He and his team, eat, sleep and breathe motor sports, helping both novice and experienced drivers in perfecting their racing technique. I've known him and his family long enough to call him Frankie, but I don't; he's grown up, extremely successful, and passionate about sharing his enthusiasm for speed with the world. https://teamstradale.com/

From his humble beginnings as a teen age apprentice in a machine shop, to fabricating drive systems for Formula One racing cars, Ken Hill of METALORE, INC., in El Segundo, CA. can count Ferrari, McLaren and others as clients. Currently working on lightening components for the reigning champion, Mercedes’ Formula One Team, Ken is constantly challenged to create racing parts for the most competitive motor sport in the world. Here, Ken gives his take on F-1 team philosophies, why he bought a Cobra from Carroll Shelby at lunch one day, and then modified it, and how his friendship with Dan Gurney led him to own one of Gurney’s Eagle racing cars. This man has been around the block; quickly.

It's 2019 media days at the L.A. Auto Show, and Paul Rivera, new CEO for ElectraMeccanica, was gracious with his time. Paul introduces the newest Solo, a single seat all-electric vehicle that will revolutionize commuting on a global scale. I had a fascinating few minutes with the visionary, and the tidal wave ElectraMeccanica is creating in world wide transportation.

"I never met a car that couldn't use a lot more horsepower," he says to me. Oh yes, from an Audi R8 with a supercharger, to an Alfa Romeo with an engine swap we talk about his twenty some car collection, as he shares his thought on what constitutes, "a good life." Car collector, philanthropist, world traveler, Harvard educated Bob Funari rolls up his sleeves and talks about his life philosophy, and how serving the underprivileged has become his passion.

Homeless at 21, Tommy Tallarico has performed live in front of 100,000 people, and that’s just for starters. He is is the creator of the multi-award winning series Video Games Live, TV personality, and is followed by millions internationally. With 5 Guinness Book of World Records to his name and constantly on the go, Tommy talks sports cars, music, and how he was Inspired by his famous cousin, Steven Tyler of Aerosmith. Together we talk about his Ferraris, his success mindset, and the power of being a “super sleeper”.

David Heinemeier Hansson's philosophy on stoicism, and his take on what constitutes "a good life," is a fascinating insight into focus, discipline, and business, all rolled into one. Creator of Ruby on Rails, co-creator of Basecamp (née 37 Signals), from not having a driver's license until 25, to 4 podiums at Le Mans, angel investor, public speaker, writer and entrepreneur, David's been uber-successful by any measure. But rather than  to burning the candle at both ends do reach his goals, David's approach to the 21st Century is aptly summed up in his latest book, "It Doesn't Have To Be Crazy At Work", a follow-up to "Rework" and "Remote: Office Not Required ". It Doesn't Have To Be Crazy At Work". Creativity comes in blocks of time, whether it's turning laps on the race track, or writing a book", and David discusses how he manages to get stuff done, as stress-less as possible.

Some know Joel Weinberger as a dealer principal at Continental Autosports in Hinsdale, IL, others as one of the fastest guys around a track and son of a famous dad.  But most just see him as a nice guy, intensely passionate about cars in general and Ferraris in particular. I spend some time talking about his love of racing, his personal family, and his business family that he oversees at Continental Autosports.

The future of women in motor sports is assured if you spend a little time, as I did, talking with Sarah Montgomery from Lafayette, Louisiana. From wizz-kid on the karting tracks at 13, she’s since become a Gulf Coast Series Champ, Porsche Club of America driving instructor, and in 2018, signed with Sick Sideways to compete in the brand new TCR Class with the Continental Tire Series driving an Audi RS3 LMS TCR Car. Oh yes, she been a Head Drum Major and student Leader of the Lafayette High School Marching Band. and soloed Carnegie Hall in New York City. Classic underachiever!! Her Birthday is May 18th so Happy 24th Birthday Sarah.

From a rusted hand-me-down Renault to an outstanding collection of vintage European cars, Stephan Rambaud talks about the journey from Paris to the US, and his never ending passion for motor cars. Stephan shares what he collects and why, as well as his thoughts on becoming successful in business and life. Here’s what to do for serial entrepreneurs everywhere.

Interested in sliding around a corner in a 1300 pound Beck Spyder, propelled by 180HP?  This Porsche 550 Spyder replica gives you all the thrill of the real thing at a tiny fraction of the cost. Carey Hines, VP & Co-Owner of Special Edition, Inc.(http://www.beckspeedster.com), talks his passion for cars, the business of building sophisticated replicas with his dad Kevin, and why James Dean would be proud. Special Edition, Inc. (http://www.beckspeedster.com) in Bremen, IN. SEI manufacturers and distributes the world famous Beck replicas; Beck Spyder, Beck Speedster and Beck GTS.  Carey is 2nd generation owner with a passion for 50s and 60s European styled race cars.  Besides having a hands on role in the day to day production, Carey enjoys planning every build directly with the client in order to help them build their dream.

A 1973 Rolls with 500HP? Derelicts, FJ Land Cruisers, and custom builts, all come together with an amazing eye for detail. Jonathon Ward, CEO & Lead Designer of Icon 4x4 (http://www.icon4x4.com) asks the interesting question, “what moves you”? Part mad scientists, part visionaries, Jonathon Ward and wife Jamie, have collaborated to become the leaders in custom built automobiles with classic styling, modern performance, and timeless utility. Vehicles without peer, built for journeys without boundaries. Jonathon takes us on his quest for unique design and individuality, while blurring the lines between yesterday and today.

Jill Swanson, CEO of F.A.S.T. Fresh Air Systems Technologies (http://www.fastraceproducts.com), drops by to talk about her business of keeping motor sports professional cool in the cockpit, surviving cancer, and her foundation, Lemons of Love (http://lemonsoflove.org), started to aid those battling the disease. Looking for a fun day at the track? Don’t miss out on the Enduro with a Twist (http://lemonsoflove.org/enduro-with-a-twist-event) at the Autobahn Country Club in Joliet August 12 & 13th. It is a great event for anyone interested in cars.

How does one electrify a classic car? David Benardo and Bonnie Rodgers, co-founders of Zelectric Motors (www.zelectric.com), specialize in rebuilding and electrifying the 1958-1967 Volkswagen Beetles, Split-Window VW Microbus, 1960s Karmann Ghia, and 1973-74 VW Things. I recently went on a ride in their latest conversion, a 1973 Porsche 911 S Targa, and knew I had to have them on the show.   Follow their journey from advertising executives to conversion wizards. This dynamic duo followed their passion for vintage cars and high tech and ended up creating a business and yet another career. Learn about how it all came to be, with insights and how to's. Check out my video of the 1973 Electrified Porsche too, at https://youtu.be/Z3A110U3iB0

Shortcuts in business and car collecting... From selling American iron, to collecting European sports cars, Tim Roberts shares his journey, and the ups and downs of his dual passions for fast cars and for constantly improving his business. Tim is the co-founder and chief executive officer of Catalyst Exhibits (https://www.catalystexhibit.com).  With offices in London, Chicago, San Francisco and Munich, Tim hopscotches the world balancing his far-flung empire and his love of sports cars and motor racing. How does a very successful guy challenge himself daily?  I ask him if there is one “best” car, about his car collection, and how the future of the automobile will effect us all. Enjoy the Show! Want more? Sign up for the bi-monthly Drive With Dave Newsletter at www.DriveWithDave.com. Is there someone you want to hear on the show? To find out more about the Drive With Dave Podcast or go to...www.DriveWithDavePodcast.com. Have you seen our videos? Check out the Drive With Dave YouTube Channel (www.youtube.com/user/DriveWithDave).

Like Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, walk into Scott Elrod's Autoconcierge (http://www.autoconcierge.co) in Los Angeles and you know you're not in Kansas anymore!  Surrounded by exotic and vintage cars all day long, Scott is regularly called on to provide vehicle management for owners looking for custodial care to their Ferraris, Koenigseggs, Paganis and the like. Passionate about all things fast, successful Movie and TV actor, though always an entrepreneur at heart, Scott Elrod spends some time talking cars. Enjoy the Show! Want more? Sign up for the bi-monthly Drive With Dave Newsletter at www.DriveWithDave.com. Is there someone you want to hear on the show? To find out more about the Drive With Dave Podcast or go to...www.DriveWithDavePodcast.com. Have you seen our videos? Check out the Drive With Dave YouTube Channel (www.youtube.com/user/DriveWithDave)

Rob Mancuso just may know you better than you know yourself when it comes down to buying a car. A household name in the Midwest, his grandfather and then father, taught him the ins and outs of the automotive business. He continues in those footsteps today with his own dealership, Mancuso Motorsports (https://www.mancusomotorsports.com) in downtown Chicago. Together we talk sports cars, the psychology behind buying and selling, his book, and driving the fastest Lotus road car ever, the Evora 400. For the video and story on the Lotus Evora 400 go to https://youtu.be/Gu1iHRSOwQQ Rob's Book "Assuming the Position: A Family Business Survival Game", can be found on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/Assuming-Position-Rob-Mancuso/dp/0965846202/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497979828&sr=8-1&keywords=Rob+mancuso) Enjoy the Show! Want more? Sign up for the bi-monthly Drive With Dave Newsletter at www.DriveWithDave.com. Is there someone you want to hear on the show? To find out more about the Drive With Dave Podcast or go to...www.DriveWithDavePodcast.com. Have you seen our videos? Check out the Drive With Dave YouTube Channel (www.youtube.com/user/DriveWithDave)

Those that really love sports car racing regularly take their cars to the track. Instead, my guest today took his passion for racing and built his own damn track. Now not only one of the premier private race tracks in the US, but an extremely successful business as well, how does one get all that off the ground? My guest today is Mark Basso, Pres/CEO of the Autobahn (http://www.autobahncc.com), an auto racing themed country club located in Joliet, Illinois, southwest of Chicago. Listen to get the behind the scenes story of how The Autobahn Country Club came about, Garage Mahals, and more importantly, where it's going. Enjoy the Show! Want more? Sign up for the bi-monthly Drive With Dave Newsletter at www.DriveWithDave.com. Is there someone you want to hear on the show? To find out more about the Drive With Dave Podcast or go to...www.DriveWithDavePodcast.com. Have you seen our videos? Check out the Drive With Dave YouTube Channel (www.youtube.com/user/DriveWithDave)

Wondering what Ferrari to buy? Contemporary or vintage, you will want to listen in to my guest, David Alexander. David is the guy everyone wants to talk to because of his vast knowledge of European sports cars. He has been in the exotic car business for 17 years and has guided numerous clients in starting and building their car collections. Today we discover how David switched careers to follow his car passion, as well as his insights into buying and collecting sports cars. Dave talks about the state of the sports car market, why the run-up in prices have occurred, and dusted off his crystal ball to tell us what to expect in the world of vintage European machines. You can find David at Continental AutoSports (http://www.continentalautosports.com) in Hinsdale, Illinois. Enjoy the Show! Want more? Sign up for the bi-monthly Drive With Dave Newsletter at www.DriveWithDave.com. Is there someone you want to hear on the show? To find out more about the Drive With Dave Podcast or go to...www.DriveWithDavePodcast.com. Have you seen our videos? Check out the Drive With Dave YouTube Channel (www.youtube.com/user/DriveWithDave)

In this episode, I talk cars with Steve Braverman. Steve equates entrepreneurship with the exotic car lifestyle and sprinkles in his tips for success along the way. If you are looking for an angel investor, don’t miss the ending… Steve is an uber successful businessman, angel investor, and is passionate about Ferraris, airplanes, and adventure travel. Into electronics, bicycles, and motors, by 16, Steve was rebuilding Alfa Romeo engines. He founded and sold X4 Communications, and is now building his next business, Coeo Solutions, into a serious contender with the likes of AT&T and Comcast. Steve has recently gotten involved in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles with RockmaniaLive! Passionate about Ferraris, flying planes and adventure travel, Steve shares insights on what he drives and why, and gives his thoughts on why everyone needs to be an entrepreneur. Enjoy the Show! Want more? Sign up for the bi-monthly Drive With Dave Newsletter at www.DriveWithDave.com. Is there someone you want to hear on the show? To find out more about the Drive With Dave Podcast or go to...www.DriveWithDavePodcast.com. Have you seen our videos? Check out the Drive With Dave YouTube Channel (www.youtube.com/user/DriveWithDave)

If you are interested in collecting cars, or just want to buying your 1st exotic, you are going to enjoy this podcast as Daryl Adams and I discuss how he did just that. A career in architecture gives Daryl a unique perspective in car design, and he discusses his collection and why he chose the cars in his garage. From his early days of attending a concours in Paris, Daryl outlines his path of amateur road racing, his 1st Ferrari and the importance of doing your homework before you invest in your dream car. To see the video of Daryl's Ferrari Dino 246 GTS go to... https://youtu.be/basq2DM6nOA Enjoy the Show! Want more? Sign up for the bi-monthly Drive With Dave Newsletter at www.DriveWithDave.com. Is there someone you want to hear on the show? To find out more about the Drive With Dave Podcast or go to...www.DriveWithDavePodcast.com. Have you seen our videos? Check out the Drive With Dave YouTube Channel (www.youtube.com/user/DriveWithDave)

In this episode I spend time with Tod Routi, one of the few Ferrari Certified Master Technicians in the United States. He has worked on Ferrari’s for over 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge to share. Listen in as Tod’s shares his thoughts on Ferraris both vintage and new. Not just the guy you go to see with a serious problem, Tod wants to help make sure your car is in tip top shape before something goes wrong, sort of a personal trainer for your exotic. As a result, Tod spends a great deal of time interacting with his customers, helping them better understand their Ferrari and he is here to share a few of his thoughts with you. Tod is with ContinentalAutosports(www.continentalautosports.com) in Hinsdale, Illinois. Enjoy the Show! Want more? Sign up for the bi-monthly Drive With Dave Newsletter at www.DriveWithDave.com. Is there someone you want to hear on the show? To find out more about the Drive With Dave Podcast or go to...www.DriveWithDavePodcast.com. Have you seen our videos? Check out the Drive With Dave YouTube Channel (www.youtube.com/user/DriveWithDave).

Interested in driving on a track? If you don’t know an apex from an exit point, you will want to meet my guest, Martin Hancock. From growing up learning to drive quickly on the backroads of the UK to becoming the Chief instructor for the Ferrari Club of America, Central States, Martin Hancock has spent a lifetime becoming good at going fast. Together, we talk about his sports cars journey, what he wants to own, and how he got started in motor racing. If you are thinking about amateur road racing or just want to improve your lap times, Martin hands you the keys to going faster. He answers questions about what a weekend of road racing is like, and what are the cost. Leave your comfort zone in the rear view mirror and let’s unlocking the secrets to becoming a better driver. Martin is also the Chief Operating Officer of World Franchise Associates (http://www.worldfranchiseassociates.com). Enjoy the Show! Want more? Sign up for the bi-monthly Drive With Dave Newsletter at www.DriveWithDave.com. Is there someone you want to hear on the show? To find out more about the Drive With Dave Podcast or go to...www.DriveWithDavePodcast.com. Have you seen our videos? Check out the Drive With Dave YouTube Channel (www.youtube.com/user/DriveWithDave)