Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast

Over the past three years, Hemmings has delved deeply into video and live events. This journey began in 2021 with a comprehensive revamp of their main YouTube channel (@hemmingsmotornews) and was followed by the revival of the Musclepalooza live event series. To say things are going swimmingly would not be an overstatement. In this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, host Mike Musto chats with Hemmings Creative Director Dan Stoner. They discuss Hemmings' latest and upcoming video productions, as well as an exciting event set to take place during this year's Pebble Beach Car Week in Monterey, California.

Frequent Hot Rod BBQ guest Ryan Douthit of Driving Sports TV has recently made a significant purchase: the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser First Edition, one of today's most coveted SUVs. This latest Land Cruiser marks a complete overhaul after decades of incremental updates. Interestingly, it now positions itself as a direct contender against the upcoming 2025 Toyota 4Runner, sparking curiosity among enthusiasts. Given Ryan's extensive familiarity with both vehicles and his recent feature of the new Land Cruiser on Driving Sports TV, we sought his firsthand impressions to understand just how impressive this new model truly is.

Navigating the diverse landscape of pickup trucks can be quite overwhelming. From the various cab configurations to the array of drive options, the choices seem endless. Add to that the distinctions between compact, mid-size, full-size, light-duty, heavy-duty, and medium-duty trucks, with each offering a range of engine options and construction styles, and the decision becomes even more complex. With prices spanning from the low $20k to well over $100k, selecting the ideal pickup can feel like a daunting task. To help navigate this terrain, Ryan Douthit of Driving Sports TV teams up with host Mike Musto to delve into the intricacies of modern-day pickup trucks and lend some insights to help you determine which make and model could be right for you.

The ultimate beater car is one you don't fret over. It's the city street parker, the lot dweller, and the one that liberates you from the worries of daily driving. Whether it's a salt-scarred winter warrior, a pre-dinged deterrent to thieves, or a worn-out farmhand, the beater is a highly underrated motoring gem that many enthusiasts relish. On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast host Mike Musto welcomes longtime friend, industry consultant, and one of his closest automotive confidants to discuss the art behind obtaining the perfect beater.

Let's break down some eye-opening figures for 2024. According to Fortune.com, the average price of a new car stands at $47,338.00. Pair that with the average new car payment of $738.00 or the slightly lower average new car lease payment of $606.00, as reported by LendingTree.com. Meanwhile, the average payment on a used vehicle comes in at $538.00.   These numbers hit hard because they underscore the financial strain many Americans face. To afford these payments, you'd ideally be earning around $60,000 annually, which incidentally is just about what the average American makes at $59,384 per year. And remember, that's before factoring in essentials like housing costs, student loans, insurance, utilities, and the ever-present expenses of raising a family.   It's a stark reality: auto loans trail only home mortgages as the largest category of debt in the country. On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod Podcast, Mike Musto and Ryan Douthit of Driving Sports TV dissect this phenomenon and try to uncover its roots.

Dan Stoner, Hemmings Creative Director, is no stranger to project cars. From his Stoner-T with its blown HEMI, to a killer little T-bucket, a flat bottom drag boat, and of all things, an Edsel, some would say that Mr. Stoner is indeed, and automotive masochist. Case in point, a 1952 Henry J that once belonged to his dad, and that Dan has now taken under his wing for a restoration and rebirth if you will - but here's the thing, the car hasn't been on the road since 1967. Originally purchased by his father back in the late 1950s, it was used as a daily driver for some time. It then went to a family member, until after years of use the little Henry J was put out to pasture in the family barn until Dan rescued it and shipped it to California. On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ, Dan Stoner sits down with host Mike Musto to tell us what's in store for the Henry J that's been in his family for almost 70 years.

On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast, host Mike Musto and Ryan Douthit of Driving Sports TV are diving into the highly anticipated 2025 Toyota 4Runner, and more importantly, what sets it apart from the outgoing generation. They then delve into the world of limited and or special edition automobiles and uncover if they're worth it to buy and own.   It's then onto Hemmings' latest automotive extravaganza: Musclepalooza! The inaugural event at Maple Grove Raceway in Mohnton, PA this past weekend was an adrenaline-fueled blast, featuring high-octane drag races, a killer car show, heart-pounding dyno tests, and of course, a burnout contest. With three more shows in the pipeline, Musclepalooza 2024 is revving up to be a premier automotive series in the U.S. so make sure to visit hemmings.com/musclepalooza for the details on upcoming shows.   So, kick back, pour yourself a yummy beverage, and join us for a brand-new episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ!

Over the last two decades, the idea of what a pro-touring or resto-mod car is has been drastically redefined. In the beginning we were treated to mild suspension and drivetrain modifications, but now, with advancements in technology and manufacturing, these cars have been sent to heights that have redefined what's possible. Wisconsin based Speedkore is one such coach builder that is taking the idea of what a custom car can be and flipping it on its head and their latest creation, a 1970 Dodge Charger simply known as “GHOST” is a prime example of that. With a body that's constructed entirely from carbon fiber, a bespoke chassis, and an interior that should be the topic of design studio discussions, Speedkore is reimagining what classic vehicles can be. On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast host Mike Musto sits down with Senior Business Development Manager, Tom Porter and Lyle Brummer, Speedkore's Director of Design to learn a little bit more about how Speedkore creates some of the most brilliant coach-built vehicles on the road today.

In the vast world of motorsports, enthusiasts have an abundance of disciplines to choose from. Whether it's the rush of circle track racing, the finesse of drifting, the precision of road course events, or the rugged excitement of off-roading, there's something for every speed enthusiast. Yet, among these options, drag racing stands out for its remarkable accessibility to both participants and fans.   On the latest episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, host Mike Musto talks with Bill Bader, President of Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park, to explore the significance of drag racing in the United States and they delve into why there's a need to reignite interest in what may be the most accessible form of motorsport.

There's no question that today's SUVs and crossovers are far more advanced than their predecessors from just a decade ago. From their complex suspension and off-road systems to their different drive modes and transmissions, to their now, hybrid, electric and turbocharged powertrains, these everyday family haulers are more intricate than ever. But is all this technology necessary and even wanted by the consumer, and ultimately, does it make these machines better? Oh, and don't even get us started on the cost.   To help us answer these questions and more we're joined today by Ryan Douthit of Driving Sports TV. Ryan's specialty is reviewing the latest and greatest in the off-road and SUV segment, and he even has his own test facility to do it. So, if you're in the market for a new crossover, off-roader, or SUV, this is an episode you'll not want to miss!

Explore the world of high-end automotive auctions or car shows, and you're likely to encounter a selection of custom and coach-built vehicles. When executed with precision, these automobiles are mechanical masterpieces fetching staggering sums both at their initial purchase, and when sold on the used market. Yet, what distinguishes them from the finest garage-built customs? And more importantly, does the extensive craftsmanship and investment translate into a significantly enhanced driving experience?   In this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, host Mike Musto sits down with Douglas Glad, Hemmings' Head of Content, to delve into precisely these questions. Together, they explore the nuances between American and European builds, dissect current market trends, and ponder the allure of certain build categories over others.

Last week Dodge took the wraps off the brand new and beautifully designed 2024 Dodge Charger and to say the automotive populous went nuts would be an understatement. First, there's a lot to digest here as the new Charger will be offered in both two and four door variants and with a choice of either EV or ICE powerplants (ICE comes in 2025). But more so, the enthusiast crowd seems to be torn for one simple fact – it doesn't come with a HEMI. Now if you've been following automotive news, you'll know that the HEMI v8 is at the end of its lifecycle and can no longer be produced, thus the inclusion of the new twin-turbo Hurricane inline-6. However, even though Dodge is giving us both an EV and ICE version, AND the choice of both two and four doors, people still seem tweaked. That's why on this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast we've brought in Hemmings own Evan Perkins and Bryan McTaggart (both diehard muscle car guys) to give their take on the new 2024 Dodge Charger.

Hemmings Creative Director, Dan Stoner is a bona fide hot-rodder if there ever was one. From his insane HEMI powered Stoner-T to his direct-drive drag boat, to the fact that the man tools around the city of San Francisco in a 1974 Ford F250 with a gallons-to-the-mile 460 big block under the hood. Dan is the guy we turn to when it comes to traditional hot rods and hot rod culture. That's why when one of the most famous hot rods in history recently made an appearance at the 2024 Grand National Roadster show in Southern California, Dan got excited.   Not only is this a car that influenced him in a host of different ways, but he also has an odd connection to it that he's going to divulge right now on this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast!

Earlier this year host Mike Musto made a post about how he wanted to put 10,000-miles on his 1968 Charger in 2024. There were comments and questions, but not so much about the miles, but more so about the engine and drivetrain combination. The specs on the engine are mild. A 440 cubic inch big block with iron 906 heads that were bored .30 over, a 470 lift cam, with an 800 double-pumper on top. The transmission is a 727 with a reverse valve body mated to a gear vendor through an 8 3/4 rear with a 3.55 gear – as for power though, Musto really had no idea what the old lump made.   Enter Hemmings own Evan Perkins, our resident engine guru. He suggested that Musto throw it on the dynamometer at Westech in Southern, California, a mere 450-miles from Musto's home. Not only would that tell him the power output, but as Perkins explains, using a dynamometer is one the best ways to tune your vehicle and possibly even get some extra power.

Aside from being a gem a human being, Hemmings Creative Director, Dan Stoner is also a bit of archeologist when it comes to uncovering some of the greatest automotive stories never told. In the upcoming second season Hemmings YouTube series, the Motor Underground, hosted by Mr. Stoner himself, Dan dives into the hidden hot rod culture that flourished in San Francisco's China Town during the 1950, 60's and into the 1970's. These are the stories you've never heard; told in a way you've never expected and it's coming in early March 2024 to the Hemmings YouTube Channel. Today on the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, host Mike Musto sits down with Dan Stoner as he gives us a taste of what to expect in the second season of Hemmings, The Motor Underground.

On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast, it's time to talk about wheeling in the winter so you can be prepared for all things related to safe and enjoyable winter driving! Today, host Mike Musto sits down with Ryan Douthit from Driving Sports TV, and dives into essential precautions and tips to navigate the challenges of winter roads. As the temperatures drop and snow blankets the streets, it's crucial to arm yourself with knowledge on how to stay safe behind the wheel. Whether you're a seasoned winter driver or a novice facing your first frosty commute, we've got you covered with expert insights and practical advice. So, buckle up and join us as we explore the icy terrain and unravel the secrets to mastering winter driving as we talk about everything from different types of snow tires to the emergency kits you should have in your vehicle.

In this edition of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast, host Mike Musto is joined by industry veteran Vinny Russo to explore the future of the automotive industry in 2024. The conversation delves into the repercussions of a major global OEM's decision to withdraw from auto shows for the upcoming year.   The discussion extends to the significance of traditional auto shows in the automotive community and examines whether social media has rendered them obsolete. Additionally, the episode covers the dealership experience and provides insights into essential considerations when it comes time to make a new vehicle purchase.

Engaging in automotive media is an exhilarating adventure, made even more thrilling when shared among friends. Collaborating with fellow enthusiasts who share your vehicular passion elevates the excitement of exploring the industry's stories, and diverse vehicles. Cultivating professional relationships within this circle brings a distinct synergy, blending work and passion seamlessly. Today's Hot Rod BBQ Podcast features special guests—wheel designer Ron Baugh and car builder Suppy Wejpanich. We're embarking on an exciting Hemmings project: reengineering a 1987 Buick Grand National for Grammy-nominated rap artist Michael Render, aka Killer Mike. Our journey will be documented in a video series on the Hemmings YouTube channel in the coming months as we capture the challenge of completing the car in less than a month!

Welcome to the final episode of the 2023 Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast! This time, it's a crew show featuring Ryan Douthit from Driving Sports TV (also the show's producer) and myself, Mike Musto. We're recapping 2023, peeking into 2024, and beyond, making predictions about trends—what stays and what goes.   We then delve into the perceived decline of the American muscle car due to the rise of electrification, explore Tesla's new Cyber Truck, and compare today's vehicle lifespans with those from a decade ago. Amid Hemmings' rapid evolution, we also emphasize preserving the essence that has kept this remarkable company thriving for 70 years.   So, kick back, settle in, and enjoy our final show of 2023. Thank you for being part of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast and we'll see you in 2024!

Mention the Ring Brothers to any enthusiast that cherishes and adores modified, and coach build muscle cars, and odds are the reactions you'll get will be quite good. For almost two decades brothers Mike and Jim Ring have redefined what muscle cars could be in ways few could have imagined. They're first build happened in 2005. It was a 1967 Ford Mustang known as REACTOR and when the public got wind of it, they knew then and there, that the Ring Brothers where here to stay.   Since then, the brothers have created some of the most memorable and stunning muscle cars the world has ever seen. Case in point, this year's 2023 SEMA show, where the brother's debuted two new creations. The first was TUSK, a stunning 1969 Dodge Charger complete with a 1,000 horsepower Hellephant crate engine under the hood, and the second was Paramount, a 1961 Classic Rolls Royce with a 640bhp supercharged LT4.   On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast Mike Ring joins host Mike Musto to talk about how the Ring Brothers got started, and how, after almost two decades in business, they've got no plans of slowing down.

Why aren't young people as into cars as they once were? Is it the rise of ride-share services, the shift in priorities towards sustainability, or the favoring of eco-friendly transportation. Or perhaps the allure of technology and gadgets has surpassed the appeal of traditional car culture. Then there's the cost of ownership that stretches from purchasing and maintenance, to of course, insurance. Whatever the reason, there seems to be a movement away from the once iconic symbol of freedom and independence. Now I'd like you to forget everything you've just read, and meet 18-year-old Riley Trask, and her father, Dane. For the last four years, under her dad's mentorship, Riley has not only created her own YouTube Channel, Riley's REBUILDs, where she's become an old pro at rebuilding carburetors, but in that time, she's also set up a small automotive own business with some of her friends. So, if you want some reassurances that young people are indeed still diggin' our beloved collectibles and classics, just hit play and have Riley Trask change your mind.

There are few people in this industry more enthusiastic about their job than artist and Senior Design Manager at Stellantis, Dan Zimmermann. For many of us, our love of the automotive hobby came from family, and for Dan it was no different. Now of course, growing up in his grandfather's body shop didn't hurt, but it was more the guidance of both his father and grandfather that really left an impression. From there it was art school and befriending those like-minded in the way of design, until ultimately his craft was honed into the excellence it is today. On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, host Mike Musto sits down with Dan to talk design philosophy, where inspiration comes from, aesthetics, and more importantly, what's gained by sometimes drawing outside the lines and not following convention.

With the 2023 SEMA show finally in the rear-view mirror, host Mike Musto and Hemmings own Terry McGean sit down to reflect on some of their favorite rides, current trends, and how this year's 2023 SEMA show felt with the absence of the big OEMs. They also talk about how the show has changed in the last 20-years, what the future holds for big trade shows like SEMA and PRI (Performance Racing Industry) and pontificate on if the show had the same impact as it did in years past! They then touch on Hemmings new look and feel and talk about why Hemmings is the best place to go when it comes to finding your first classic or collector vehicle.

When it comes to the car hobby, host Mike Musto has one goal. Own and experience as many vehicles as you can before you die. It's a lofty one we know, but on the surface it kind of makes sense if you do it correctly. If you're of this mindset, then are a few rules you need to follow. First, be financially responsible. Don't go into hock for something you can't afford, regardless of how bad you want it. Second, when you find a vehicle you want, try, and take emotion out of it (this one is tough). Lastly, and the most important step, back into what the cost of ownership will truly be. On this episode of the Hemming Hot Rod BBQ podcast, host Mike Musto and Ryan Douthit of Driving Sports TV sit down and talk about how Mike was recently talked back from the ledge of a financial mistake by a very good friend.

We all have our stories about how we got into the car hobby. For some of us it was through friends, others through family, and others still, it was simply forcing their way in because they simply loved the idea of it. Courtney Leonard grew up in the San Francisco Bay area surrounded by everything from flat bottom drag boats and 60's muscle cars to traditional open-bay hot rods. Her Father is a lifelong hot-rodder, and for as long as she can remember, she was tied to his hip whenever his aquatic or automotive exploits took place.  On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast host Mike Musto sits down with Courtney to see just how deep her love of hot rods is and talks about just how important the car hobby has been in her life.

There are a lot of unanswered questions when it comes to paint protection and over the last few decades the industry has changed and with it, so has the technology. From PPF (paint protection film) and vinyl wraps, protecting your vehicles surface can sometimes be a tricky endeavor. Ryan Schiller is the owner of Elite Auto Works in Sacramento, CA, a company that specializes in protecting and caring for some of the best cars in the world and on this episode of the Hot Rod BBQ podcast he sits down with host Mike Musto to bring us up to speed on best practices when it comes to protecting that paint of yours!

We here at Hemmings get asked all the time, “How do I get into this industry, and do what you do?” Not only is the answer not a simple one, but it also varies for each and every individual as the automotive industry as a whole is far more vast than most can imagine. First you've got to decide on where you want to be and what you think you want to do. For instance, there's media, marketing, jouralism, automotive reviews, design, sales, hosting, podcasting, etc. The list goes on and on. There are however some fundimental basics, skils, and diciplines that everyone needs to follow if they really want to give it a go. To address these, host Mike Musto and Hemmings own Terry McGean sit down and discuss how they broke into the industry, and how now, more than 20 years after they started, they're still going strong!

From the iconic Lamborghini Countach in "The Cannonball Run" to the post-apocalyptic Last Interceptor from the Mad Max franchise, on this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, host Mike Musto and Ryan Douthit of Driving Sports TV dive deep into the unforgettable vehicles that have graced the silver screen and helped to shape generations of gearheads the world over!

Building a custom vehicle is no easy task. It takes time, patience, the wherewithal to stick to a plan, money, possibly switching shops, more money, and finally, a lot more money. And while you may think we're overexaggerating, trust us, we're not. You see Hemmings is currently building a wicked little all-wheel drive sled in the form of a 2023 Dodge Hornet. Why a Hornet you ask? Well, we dig em', they're quick, and while in stock form they may seem a little pedestrian, we knew differently, which is why we dove in headfirst an decided to film an entire build series around it. (*Coming soon to the Hemmings YouTube Channel) On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Mike Musto sits down with Ryan Douthit to talk about the trials and tribulations on everything from design and performance modifications to old school metal fabrication and automotive customization.

Once a year, in mid-August, on the Monterey Bay Peninsula in Northern, California, an automotive pilgrimage happens that's unlike any other. It's where enthusiasts the world over travel to experience some of the best automobiles on the planet in a setting that is nothing short of breathtaking. Its origins date back to the 1950s, and over the last 70 years, the event has grown into a bucket list item for all who enjoy the automobile. This is Monterey Car Week, and on this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast, host Mike Musto sits down with Legendary Auto Sports founder, Troy Macias (both of whom have just returned from the 2023 event), to talk about the week's adventures, and how the event has evolved to embrace the ever-changing automotive landscape of the 21st century.

Here at Hemmings, we know a thing or two about sports cars and exotics. So much so, that we had a publication dedicated to them a few years back, which got us thinking. What if, instead of bringing it back in print form, we instead found one of the best automotive journalists in the business, who's not only an accomplished driver, but who also has a huge amount of knowledge on the topic.  Enter Jethro Bovingdon. From EVO Magazine and Top Gear U.S., to now being the new host of Hemmings upcoming show, Sports & Exotic Car, Jethro has cemented himself as one of the top names in today's automotive world. Today on the Hot Rod BBQ, we talk to him about what we can expect on his new show (to be featured on Hemmings own YouTube Channel), and how it may help us to dispel the myths surrounding some of the greatest sports and exotics ever made.

Reinventing one of the most iconic vehicles ever produced is not an easy task. You've got to factor in consumer and industry response, how the aftermarket will adapt, and most of all, not only preserving, but also enhancing the reputation of its predecessors. We're talking of course about the newly reinvented Toyota Land Cruiser, a vehicle so steeped in world history, that getting it wrong simply wasn't an option. On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, we're joined by Ryan Douthit of Driving Sports TV who just spent a little time with the new Land Cruiser, and who walks us through the ins and outs of Toyota's newest icon.

It used to be that to see concept cars back in the day, you'd have to wait what seemed like years. You'd see them in the pages of a magazine, or at the big automotive shows, and if they were good, they'd make you stand back and gawk with wonder. However now, in the 21st century, automotive artist can create stunning automotive concepts in a matter of days utilizing some amazing software. Abimelec Arellano is one of those artists, and with a following of almost 75,000 fans on Instagram, his popularity is growing like wildfire. His conceptual automotive art constantly asks the question, “what if?” and his creations and mashups will make you rethink what you thought you liked. For instance, what if Porsche had built an overlanding rig out of the misunderstood 928, what would it look like? Or how about if Lamborghini took a Miura and went NASCAR racing? Or maybe even still, a Ford Crown Victoria that received the same hot rod treatment as the Mustang SVT Cobra R - would that intrigue you? If these concepts don't, you're probably dead inside, but if they do, then you MUST visit his Instagram page because the scope of his work is nothing short of amazing. https://www.instagram.com/abimelecdesign/  

As co-author of the book, A Quiet Greatness, the definitive guide to the greatest Japanese performance cars of all time, Myron Vernis is no stranger to uncommonly cool vehicles. As a collector and enthusiast, he's a man who appreciates all aspects and genres of the car hobby and holds little concern regarding the price or status a vehicle holds in the community. In short, he is the type of enthusiast we should all strive to be as he makes this sometimes-crazy hobby a better place. On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, host Mike Musto sits down with Myron to discuss everything from entry level and attainable vehicles to those that may have never been on your radar. This is a very insightful episode that you'll not want to miss!

The temperature gauge. If you're a hot rod, classic or muscle car enthusiast, that little dial can be the bane of your existence. Just picture yourself, sitting in traffic on a 95-degree day, as your eyes are locked on that little gauge waiting for it to climb to the moon. While that's happening, the fuel in the carburetor is starting to boil causing the vehicle to vapor lock and run poorly. Then there are those drum brakes, the ones that almost sent you sideways when you made that panic stop earlier – remember those? It's time folks. It's time for EFI, AC, good brakes, cooling, suspension, and power windows. It's time for reliability and enjoyment. It's also time to stop catering to those who don't own YOUR vehicle so you can start driving again with a smile on your face. There are those who will fight against this, who will say they're only original once - and they're right, but only partially, because everything currently can be undone. On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, we talk about the joys of modification and how, if done correctly, they'll made your ride wonderful again.

Welcome to the ranting episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast where host Mike Musto goes on a tirade in the hopes, that you'll actually pull those cars of yours out of the garage and put some miles on them.   Here's the thing, as enthusiasts, our vehicles bring us different levels of joy and statisfaction. From the lawn chair and long haul crowds, to the Cars & Coffee faithful, to those who still use them as daily drivers. Vintage and collector vehicles have the capacity to bring us so much joy and create so many memories, that not driving them just seems like a crime. Therefore, we at Hemmings want to hear about your stories and adventures, and utlimately how you enjoy your vehicles. So much so that if they're great, we'll have you on as a podcast guest to talk about them.  To qualify, write in the comments, why you love the hobby, driving, and then, give us a little snippet of an adventure you've had. If we dig it, we'll reach out to you and PRESTO – instant guest.  Sound good? Yeah… we thought so too.

SEMA car designer, Neil Tjin of Tjin Edition, is no stranger to us here at Hemmings. Last year he partnered with Hemmings' own Mike Musto to create “Project Rampart” the ultimate race support vehicle. It was constructed from a Dodge Durango Hellcat, shown in the Dodge booth at SEMA, and went on to become one of the crown jewels in the Hemmings fleet!  In 2023, Neil became part of the Electrify Expo, as the Director of Electrify Showoff, and the man responsible for showcasing some of the coolest and customized electric vehicles in existance. On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast Musto and Tjin sit down to discuss how hot rodding an EV is just as important as hot rodding ICE vehicles in the traditional sense, and how both will always be an important part of the automotive world moving forward.

If you read automotive publications, or are simply an automotive enthusiast, then odds are you know the name Rory Carroll. You see, he's been around for a while. After running a little publication called AutoWeek, and after a stint at RM Sotheby's, Mr. Carroll is now back atop the masthead as the Editor-In-Chief of one of the most OG automotive websites in existence - Jalopnik.com. On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, host Mike Musto sits down with Rory to talk about the new Porsche Mission X Electric Hypercar concept, and they try and determine if it really will be the sportscar of the future. Their attention then turns to the all-new 2024 Lexus GX550 Overtrail, a high-end off-roader with its crosshairs aimed directly on the ever-growing overlanding crowd.

It seems like a millennium has passed since Toyota has done anything to their beloved mid-size Tacoma pickup. For the enthusiast, this is both good and bad news. On the one hand, these trucks are some of the most coveted on the planet due to their legendary toughness, ease of use, maintenance, and reliability. On the other, the new truck is full of the latest and greatest technology and comes with either a turbocharged engine or in a hybrid model, so that maintenance factor may be going bye-bye. On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast, host Mike Musto sits down with Ryan Douthit of Driving Sports TV who just returned from a very wet press launch in Hawaii where he got up close and personal with the new 2024 Toyota Tacoma.

If you ever thought of buying a collectible car or truck, then one of the first thoughts that should go through your head is, does it have any rust? Rust is one of those silent killers that eats our beloved rides from the inside out, and unlike mechanical issues, by the time you see it, it could be too late. There is, however, a preventative solution that can help prevent and ward off rust. POR-15 has been around for a long time, and while it's powers of rust prevention are greatly known, most of us have no idea how it does what it does. On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, Jason Anagnostis, President, and Chief Technical Officer of POR-15, sits down with Mike Musto and Hemmings Marketing Director, Dan Stoner, to enlighten all of us gear heads out there as to how POR-15 can help preserve your ride. Hint… It's all in the prep.

When it comes to cars, and more importantly, the driving experience, a lot of folks out there say they prefer a more “analog” experience when they're behind the wheel. But what does that actually mean? For most, it means piloting a vehicle that is mechanical in most of its workings, and not digital. For instance, a vehicle with a drive-by-wire throttle, direct-injection and things like radar cruise control is most certainly not an analog experience. Whereby older vehicles that are mostly free of computers and digital technology, are.  On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, Elana Scherr, Senior Features Editor at Car & Driver, sits down with host Mike Musto to discuss why they both gravitate to vehicles that are on in years, but fully up to date when it comes to the driving experience.

30 years ago, the last of the Fox Body Mustangs rolled off the assembly line. And over the course of its 14-year production run, the original sharp-angled 1979 model was transformed into the brawny 5.0L that are now coveted by enthusiasts. They were at home on every boulevard and burnout box during the cassette era and nowadays many of us wax nostalgic for the one that got away.  Today on the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, host Mike Musto sits down with Hemmings own Terry McGean (Fox Body owner) to talk about why these little 5.0L Fords are now sought after by collectors the world over.

Host Mike Musto is an expert on road-tripping. He's crisscrossed the United States more than a dozen times, explored Canada, Mexico, and all over Europe in everything from a classic Dodge Charger to a full-blown motor coach. But what is that perfect vehicle, and more importantly, does it exist? On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ, Musto sits down with Ryan Douthit of Driving Sports TV to discuss the best and most reliable road trip vehicles that you can buy on a budget. They then talk about a correction in the used car market and even touch on attainable bucket list cars.

From the Fall Guy and The Dukes of Hazzard to Miami Vice and Magnum P.I.. If you grew up in the 1980s and 1990s and loved cars, then you were glued to the television screen whenever these shows came on. These shows, along with movies like The Cannonball Run, No Man's Land, and Smokey and the Bandit were like automotive crack to budding car enthusiasts and helped set the stage for so many of us. On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, we welcome designer Ron Baugh from Wheel Pros to talk about the decades that most influenced his sense of style, and how both his father and grandfather left their mark on him by owning some very cool rides of their own.

Dan Stoner, Hemmings Creative Director, is a master of all things hot rod culture. His Hemmings YouTube Series, The Motor Underground, first documented the build of the Stoner T, his old school hot rod with a Gotelli fueler 392 Hemi (make sure to check it out here). Then, to takes things one step further, Stoner then decided to shoot a full documentary on the California based, Shifters Car Club, entitled, The Shifters: A Hot Rod Revolution. On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, Stoner sits down with host Mike Musto and takes us through the genesis behind one of the coolest hot rod documentaries to date.

On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast, we talk about the new Dodge Demon 170, the 1,025-horsepower mastodon of a muscle car that marks the end of the ‘Last Call' models from Dodge. Mike Musto was at the Last Call event that was held live at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, and as usual, Dodge put on quite a show. Musto then jumps into his recent test drive in the new Dodge Hornet GT compact CUV, and we also welcome back Ryan Douthit of Driving Sports TV, who recently launch Riding Sports TV, a new YouTube channel that concentrates on eBikes and eScooters. Ryan recently test road a couple of two-wheel models in the form of the 2023 Ariel Grizzly and the Ubco all-wheel drive work bike, and to say we're intrigued would be putting it lightly.

The debate on electrifying classic vehicles has been in full bloom with the hot rod community for some time. To many, removing that mechanical heart and soul is blasphemy, but to others it makes perfect sense, especially if said engine was poor from the factory. On this episode of the Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, Hemmings own Dan Strohl joins host Mike Musto to talk about the EV industry and how it pertains to the enthusiast. From electrifying older vehicles and the costs incurred, to Mr. Strohl's very own Chenowth EV buggy project, this is a great episode that peaks behind the curtain of EV hot rodding.

Not too long ago, my Hemmings colleague, Dan Strohl, brought to my attention A Quiet Greatness, a volumetric set of books that is set to become the definitive guide to the greatest Japanese performance cars ever photographed and cataloged. Penned by authors Mark R. Brinker and Myron T. Vernis, the two have cultivated a twenty-year friendship and love of automobiles into a visual journey that is a must for any collector who values automotive literature.  On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast, we sit down with both Mark and Myron to talk about how this amazing catalog of vehicles came to be and try to get an understanding of the rabbit holes they had to dive into to bring it all together.

Aside from being the shop manager and master of all things mechanical at our Hemmings Sibley Garage and workshop in Bennington, Vermont, Junior Nevinson is also a rabid motorcycle enthusiast. So much so, that when we were filming our IROC REHAB video series on the Hemmings YouTube channel, we started talking about motorcycles. We started talking about road bikes, with the conversation then turning to off-road. Then, after a few moments, something amazing happened. Junior, being the humble human being he is, casually told us about how he took a motorcycle journey through South America that covered over twenty-one borders, and 46,000-miles, on a 250cc Yamaha dual sport motorcycle. Yeah, he did that… And now he's on our very own Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast to tell us exactly how it went!

When it comes to car shows, few know them better than Phil Painter, organizer of Muscle Cars at the Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in Las Vegas, Nevada. For over twenty-years this show has been a mainstay for car enthusiasts on the West Coast and beyond, and every year, it keeps getting better.  From the excitement of the drag races and auto-x to a killer show field complete with vendor booths and enthusiasts, the truth is, it's hard to beat. On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast, we sit down with Phil to chat about Muscle Cars at the Strip in Las Vegas (happening this weekend, March 17-19, 2023) and then we talk about Dodge's Last Call event that'll be packed with automotive celebrities along with a killer reveal that happens the day after on, March 20th.

Evan Perkins, Hemmings Director of Digital Content, knows a thing or two about modifying cars. Formerly a member of the team over at Holley, his experience and technical prowess made him somewhat of an expert in the field of EFI and overall vehicle modification. On this week's episode of the Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, he sits down with Mike Musto to talk about the differences between EFI systems and how to modify your vehicle to fit your specific needs.