Stagger

This week, J.D. and Derrick decided to re-air an episode they did last year, as they are working on the next new episode. But, if you just found the podcast in 2021, this episode will be new to you! You might have heard the name, but you might not be aware of just how accomplished he was prior to his turn in NASCAR. Find out how Lake Speed toured the world, duked it out with Ayrton Senna (yes, him), and ultimately tamed one of NASCAR's toughest tracks. And also, find out which NASCAR television personality tried to punch him out on national TV.  In this episode, J.D. and Derrick are joined by Ory Roberts, a friend of the program, racing fantasy league operator, and all-around knowledgeable NASCAR fan as they take a look back on Lake Speed's career.  Let the guys know your thoughts on this episode on social media; twitter and instagram is the same handle - @staggerpodcast

Memories can sometimes be deceiving. Perception is reality, but what if somewhere along the way, your perception was skewed? An unfortunate accident at Daytona in 2012 changed the way Juan Pablo Montoya was understood by one of the largest fanbases in motorsports - NASCAR fans. But it wasn't just that moment; JPM won just two races in America's biggest racing series. And so, he was seen as just a guy. Not great, not terrible, just one of many drivers to come to NASCAR and struggle.  But the reality is that Juan Pablo Montoya is one of the best drivers in the history of motorsports. His accomplishments stand among the greatest names the sport has ever seen - Foyt, Andretti, and Gurney, and Hill.  This week, J.D. and Derrick aim to set the record straight on Juan Pablo Montoya, from his time in CART and IndyCar to his Formula 1 days, even to his spectacular run in the NASCAR playoffs (this happened!). And to do so, they borrow a premise from the great "You're Wrong About" podcast (which you really should be listening to!)  Enjoyed this episode? Think we're wrong about Juan Pablo Montoya? Let us know! Twitter | Instagram | Facebook Listen to You're Wrong About  

LeeRoy Yarbrough isn't well remembered by NASCAR fans, despite his big year in 1969. There's a good reason for that... In the second of our two-part series on this forgotten NASCAR driver, we explore what happened after 1969...and why LeeRoy would never be the same again after that season. His legacy remains difficult to square, and what it should be depends largely on who you ask.  More Stagger here: Twitter: www.twitter.com/StaggerPodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/staggerpodcast/  Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/67911277293899  

In the world of NASCAR, we hear often about the legendary drivers of the 60s and 70s: Richard Petty, David Pearson, Cale Yarborough, Donnie and Bobby Allison, etc. Given all of those names, it comes as no surprise that there was a ton of talent in the NASCAR garage during the season of 1969. What might be surprising to some is the driver who was viewed to have the best season that year, and one of the best seasons in NASCAR history: a Jacksonville, FL, native named LeeRoy Yarbrough. Though he's on the list of NASCAR's top 50 drivers of all-time, he's not talked about very often by many in the sport.  Why is that? In the first of a two-part series, J.D. and Derrick Smith dive into what made LeeRoy Yarbrough one of the best drivers in racing in the late 60s...and why we don't hear as much about him anymore.  More Stagger here: Twitter: https://twitter.com/StaggerPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/staggerpodcast/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/679112772938999 

1982 was a big year of change for sprint car racing. The legendary Knoxville Nationals allowed winged sprint cars to enter for the first time in race history. Also, some kid named Steve Kinser, who had already proven himself plenty on the black gumbo dirt of Knoxville, was attempting to win three Nationals in a row - a feat no one had ever accomplished. Standing in his way was another Knoxville Nationals two-in-a-row winner - Doug Wolfgang. Who would come out on top? Travel back with J.D. and Derrick Smith, as they explore this time of progress in sprint car racing, and try to figure out how the great become the GOAT in this week's episode.  Subscribe to the podcast on your app, and follow the guys on twitter and instagram - @staggerpodcast.

In 1989, Geoff Brabham could do no wrong in IMSA. His Nissan/ Electramotive Engineering GTP ZX-T #83 was one of the best sports cars ever made, and his team had figured out how to make it more reliable. They were finally getting the most out of this spectacular machine.  However, at the race in July at Portland International Raceway, Brabham had some difficulty getting around Jan Lammers and Price Cobb, drivers of the Tom Walkinshaw Racing Jaguar XJR-10 #60. It was a great battle between two fantastic drivers, and the race ended with a tremendous pass for the lead on the penultimate lap. Unfortunately, there was a problem...the checkered flag had already been waved, accidentally, by the local race official manning the start finish line.  IMSA's solution, and the implications of that decision, are what we explore today, along with one of the most glorious times in sportscar racing history in America. That's all today on Stagger! Links: Youtube video of the 1989 IMSA race at Portland: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S2k3XF0vfJI&t=1820s Stagger Twitter: https://twitter.com/StaggerPodcast Stagger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/staggerpodcast/   

It is one of the most controversial racecars ever built - The Car of Tomorrow, aka the COT. There were many strong takes on this vehicle when it debuted in 2007, and not just from fans. Why was this car so disliked? And why did NASCAR feel the need to build this special race car in the first place, one that many felt was alienating fans from the sport? This week, in part two of two in our short podcast series about NASCAR safety, we discuss everything you want to know about the Car of Tomorrow, with an unabashed fan of the chassis - NASCAR ARCA Menards Series East driver Rajah Caruth. Rajah was just a kid when the COT came out, and has fond memories of the Car of Tomorrow as a race fan growing up in Washington DC. Will he still find it as beloved when the guys go into the history of the car? Find out on this episode, and hear what he thinks about the car's pluses and minuses for the drivers, fans and team owners.  Also, make sure you check Rajah's socials if you aren't already! Rajah on Twitter: Rajah Caruth (@rajahcaruth_) / Twitter Rajah's website: Home | Rajah Caruth As always, you can also follow stagger on twitter and instagram: Stagger Podcast (@StaggerPodcast) / Twitter  

One of the basic rules of most sports is that they should be safe enough for all competitors to return home after the event. For most fans, a routine consequence of the sport they love isn't death.  Unfortunately, the world of motorsports is quite different. Danger lurks in every corner, and one wrong move could be disastrous. Over the years, rulebooks have often been pretty light in the areas of safety and concern for the drivers' well-being. But in 2000, NASCAR officials had a huge problem on their hands - multiple drivers were dying in the highest levels of the sport. Adam Petty and Kenny Irwin Jr had both passed away in the summer of 2000 at New Hampshire, and NASCAR was determined to improve safety before the race in September. Unfortunately, not every driver was on board. And some of that drama spilled out onto the track. In this two part series, brothers J.D. and Derrick Smith take you back to a name where NASCAR was much more dangerous than it is today, and explore just how safe a racecar should be. They also took a look at one of the weirdest races in NASCAR history.  In part two, coming next week, the guys will take a look at one of the more controversial solutions to safety NASCAR ever developed - the Car of Tomorrow.  Find us on twitter and instagram - @staggerpodcast.

This week, J.D. and Derrick Smith discuss the time legendary sprint car driver Brad Doty returned to Eldora Speedway in Rossburg, OH for the Kings Royal in 1998, after suffering an injury that left him paralyzed from the chest down just ten years earlier. You'll hear their thoughts, plus an interview with Dave Argabright, who co-authored Doty's autobiography Still Wide Open, as well as the man himself, Brad Doty. What was going through his mind as he took the green flag in front of the entire sprint car world on that night in 1998?  The guys also dive into Brad's career, what he's meant to the sport of sprint car racing, and the secret test session where Brad Doty was running wide open at Eldora before bringing the car on TV. Plus much more, straight from Brad Doty and Dave Argabright. Make sure you subscribe to the podcast if you enjoy this episode - we have new episodes featuring some of the best stories in motorsports history coming out every week, so don't miss them! Plus, you can follow us on twitter and instagram - @staggerpodcast! Links from the podcast: Brady Doty: One More Lap at Eldora in 1998 (via youtube) Purchase tickets for the Brad Doty Classic at Attica Raceway Park  Purchase Still Wide Open by Brad Doty with Dave Argabright 

This week on Stagger: J.D. and Derrick talk about the genesis of one of the most legendary families in motorsports - the Unser family. And specifically, the guys wanted to explore the link between the Unser family and Pike's Peak. The annual hill climb race has been dotted with Unser winners throughout it's existence. But you may find it surprising just how much Bobby, Big Al, and Little Al owe to that hill climb event.  Later, we hear from Don Sanborn, the president of the Pike's Peak Hill Climb Historical Association about what it means to be a family with ties to that mountain, the earliest days of the hill climb, and what it means to his family to be a part of keeping this race going.  Listen every week for your motorsports history fix, and follow the show on twitter and instagram for plenty more racing history content: @staggerpodcast. New episodes come out every Wednesday!

This week on Stagger, J.D. and Derrick Smith explore the story of how Pablo Escobar nearly sponsored a Formula 1 driver.  The guys discuss how Escobar lived out his racing dreams in a Renault, Ricardo Londono's rapid rise to F1, and the man who eventually decided to stop Londono, and thus, Pablo Escobar, from being involved in Formula 1. There was also quite a bit of discussion about how the fear of reprisal allowed Escobar to carve out a meager motorsports career for himself. Finally, we talk with Ken Gold from Atlantis Motor Group, a Porsche 935 expert who is selling a car that was a central piece to this story. Ken helps us trace the history of that car from IROC, to IMSA, to Colombia, and eventually, to his dealership.  As always, let us know what you think of this story - @staggerpodcast on twitter and instagram!

This week, J.D. and Derrick break down one of the weirdest crossover events in motorsports history - Kimi Raikkonen's foray into NASCAR in 2011.  Just four years removed from winning the Formula 1 Championship, Kimi Raikkonen was in Charlotte in a NASCAR truck. But why? The guys talked about that question, his race in an Xfinity Series car (called the Nationwide Series then), and his not so great test in a Cup car. There was also an issue with his water bottle that caused more drama than it should have. Then, J.D. talked with F1 statistician Sean Kelly (@virtualstatman on twitter), who has worked in F1 broadcast production for nearly 20 years, about his impressions of the move, and how successful Kimi could be if he ever decided to come back to NASCAR.  Just like our favorite crew chiefs, we LOVE feedback! Share your thoughts on this episode, and any ideas you have for future stories you think we should discuss - @staggerpodcast on twitter and instagram! 

This week, brothers and motorsports fans J.D. and Derrick Smith talk about the driver that many of his generation regarded as the best ever - Lloyd Seay.  Sadly, we'll never know what Seay's career could have been, as it ended entirely too soon due to tragic circumstances. But in his life, he made a huge impact, one that can be seen today on the streets of Dawsonville, Georgia.  In this episode, the boys talk about moonshine, running wide open on two wheels, and the importance of Dawsonville to NASCAR. They also spoke with the owner of the Dawsonville Pool Room and the founder of the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, Gordon Pirkle, who was just brimming with information from this time period.  Make sure to give us a follow on twitter or IG (@staggerpodcast), and get more info on the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame here: www.georgiaracinghof.com

This week, we relaunch Stagger with an episode about perhaps the most important figure in Indianapolis Motor Speedway history: three-time Indy 500 champion Wilbur Shaw.  An Indiana native, Shaw was instrumental in saving the Brickyard after World War II, where it had fallen into complete disrepair. In fact, it was nearly turned into a housing plot! J.D. Smith and Derrick Smith return to tell you the story of the man who saved Indy, and helped take it to new heights.  Then, J.D. spoke with Courtney Guggenberger, one of the founders of Guggman Haus Brewing Co in Indianapolis. They have helped preserve some tremendous motorsports history related to Wilbur Shaw. Listen to her story, and check out their brewery the next time you are in Indianapolis. Their website is guggmanhausbrewing.com - and you can see more photos of their brewery on the Stagger Podcast instagram. Also, if you're interested in finding out more about Wilbur Shaw - much of the research for this week's episode came from his excellent autobiography, "Gentlemen, Start Your Engines." A must read for any serious fan of motorsports.  Check out our podcast each week! We will be exploring motorsports legends, heroes, and myths. Let us know what you think of the new format - and if there's a story you think we should tell - @staggerpodcast on twitter and instagram.

So, what's been going on with the Stagger Podcast? You guys didn't post much of anything about the new season of IndyCar, or the Martinsville race, or Richmond, or sprint cars at Bristol. So, what's the deal? Well, we might as well just say it - we are going to take a (very short) break. In fairness, the show is kind of already on that break. We'll be returning in late May. And the show will sound different when it returns.  Check out this week's episode for more from J.D. as he explains why there is a break, why it's happening, and what will be different when the show comes back.Also, we're going to keep you updated on when the new episodes will be out on our twitter page - @staggerpodcast.  Thanks to everyone who has listened to the show thus far. Stay safe and stay staggered. 

This week on the podcast, J.D. and Derrick talk about Martinsville, Texas testing for IndyCar, and some more tire tests for the NASCAR guys. Oddly, they spent a bunch of time talking about the Kentucky Speedway, and why it's BS that the track isn't hosting NASCAR events this year. Do you miss the Kentucky Speedway? Let us know - interact on twitter @staggerpodcast.

This week, J.D. and Derrick talked all about the Bristol Dirt race. Joey "Dirt" Logano claimed the first NASCAR Cup race on dirt in 50 years, beating out the likes of...Daniel Suarez? Who saw that coming? What a great run for the Trackhouse team.  The guys also discussed how Joey Logano might be the biggest villain in NASCAR, and Derrick said he'd rather see another driver (a mostly popular one) take over the mantle of chief heel in the NASCAR garage.  Later, the boys talked with Dan McFarland, aka @sprintfun on twitter, instagram, and facebook. Dan is a great motorsports photographer, and he's got a ton of great shots of sprint cars on his website. He also knows the sport really well, so we talked with him about the All Star Circuit of Champions, which gets kicked off this weekend with a double-header at Attica Raceway Park in Attica, Ohio.  If you enjoy this episode, make sure you add us to your feed by subscribing on this podcast app. And if you leave us a rating on Apple Podcasts? Well, we'd be happier than the Bristol Dirt getting hit with some much-needed water.  Links: Dan McFarland twitter Sprintfun.net

What a show we have this week heading into the Bristol Dirt weekend! J.D. sat down with not one, but TWO guests who have great perspectives on the sport. First up, J.D. sat down with Noah C Cornelius, aka Noah Talks NASCAR on your favorite podcast app and/or youtube. They discussed his Bubba Wallace fandom, coming back to the sport, his first time attending a live NASCAR race, and what he is looking for at Bristol this weekend. It was a lot of fun, and Noah is truly a bright up and comer in the media game who you will probably continue to see covering NASCAR for many years! Later, J.D. sat down with Charlie Lagenstein, shop foreman and mechanical director at StarCom Racing, who also happens to be a legendary wrench twister with tons of experience making everything from big block modifieds go around mile-long dirt tracks to working on Indy Cars. He also was a big part of the 48 team at Hendrick Motorsports when some guy named Jimmie Johnson was winning Cup championships. Charlie was kind enough to share his perspective on the technical aspects of what it takes to make a stock car go around a dirt track.  We loved both of these interviews so much, and hope you will too. As always, hit us up on twitter - @staggerpodcast. 

This week on the podcast, JD and Derrick talked about the big win for Ryan Blaney over Kyle Larson at Atlanta, getting one back for the House of Blaney. It has been 20 years since Dave Blaney lost in heartbreaking fashion at the track after losing a wheel.  The guys also talked about repaving Atlanta, a good run for Alex Bowman, Kyle Busch, and Chris Buescher, and whatever the hell "Huck-A-Buck" means. Later, J.D. broke down the Xfinity and Truck races, including the situation with Noah Gragson and Daniel Hemric. Should NASCAR have penalized Gragson or nah? And finally, it was a huge weekend at Sebring for IMSA, with Sebastian Bourdais leading the Mustang Sampling team to victory. JD gave his thoughts on just how impressive that drive was. Next week: Bristol Dirt. We're excited. As always, follow along with us on social media - twitter, instagram, and tik-tok - @staggerpodcast.

Packed episode this week! All three NASCAR series are in Atlanta this weekend on the track that just chews up tires - and the big dogs are starting to move their way to the front of the pack. Plus, Sebring and it's bumps are going to put the IMSA series through 12 grueling hours at the famous track. J.D. and Derrick talked about that, and gave their thoughts on some of the drivers they are excited to watch. In the second segment, J.D. sat down with longtime NASCAR tire changer and former Open Red podcast host Justin Fiedler. Their discussion went all over the place, from what it's like to be hit by a gas can in the Daytona 500, starting one of the biggest racing podcasts on the planet, Bristol Dirt, NASCAR Next Gen wheels, and much more. If you've ever wanted to get inside the head of the guys who hop over the wall each week in NASCAR, this is the episode for you. Thanks again to the new listeners we continue to pick up each week! Make sure you leave a rating or review for this podcast on your podcast app, and interact with us on twitter, instagram, and tik-tok: @staggerpodcast 

Phoenix was a blast, and had some great racing from the Cup, Xfinity, and ARCA Series in NASCAR. J.D. and Derrick talked about Martin Truex Jr winning after a ridiculous restart to get the dub. The guys also talked about who had speed from the Cup cars, how Bubba Wallace's strategy late in the race may have cost him, and the current slump Kyle Busch is in.  The guys also touched on topics like Ty Gibbs continuing to impress, flipping off Santino Ferrucci, the IndyCar lineup for 2021, husbands and wives in racing, and finally, how the World of Outlaws might be putting on the best racing anywhere on the planet. As always, feedback is welcome - @staggerpodcast on twitter, instagram, and tik-tok,

This week, J.D. and Derrick were fortunate enough to talk with Quin Houff, driver of the 00 StarCom Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Cup Series, about his season so far, his career, and what it's like to race at the highest level.  It was a pretty wide-ranging interview, and Quin was a great person to talk to. The guys discussed this weekend's race at Phoenix, how a lack of practice added difficulty to his rookie season, what it was like racing at South Boston Speedway growing up, that incident at Texas last year, how he bounced back from that with a top 15 finish at Talladega, his experience with iRacing, Bristol Dirt, why he's racing in Cup instead of the trucks or Xfinity Series, chocolate whiskey, getting "lawnmowered," and much more.  You should definitely give it a listen. As always, interact with the guys on twitter, instagram, and tik-tok: @staggerpodcast.

This week, the guys discussed the NASCAR weekend in Las Vegas, including Kyle Larson's return to victory lane. J.D. discussed his previous Larson fandom, Derrick brought up some excellent points about how Larson can try to move forward from last year, and both guys talked about what it felt like watching him win again after he was booted from the sport last year for using a racial slur.  Both guys also talked about the problems for Matt Dibendetto and what his future may hold, how Bubba Wallace and 23XI Racing can get back on track, a bad day for Stewart-Haas Racing, and much more from Vegas.  And don't think they forgot about Kyle Busch spinning himself out in the NASCAR Camping World Trucks Series race, or AJ Almendinger getting it done once again in Xfinity. Is the Dinger a real threat to win the Xfinity Series championship - yes! And in fact, he might just be the favorite.  Plus, the guys even discussed the World of Outlaws and All Star Circuit of Champion's fields for 2021, so dirt track fans will have something to enjoy as well this episode.  Let us know your thoughts on the episode - feedback is always welcome on instagram, twitter, and tik-tok: @staggerpodcast is the handle.

This week, the J.D. and Derrick take a look at the race at Las Vegas. Cup, Xfinity, and Trucks will all be in action, and the guys discussed the deal Marcus Lemonis offered up to the Camping World Truck Series this weekend - $15k to wrap your truck in Camping World sponsorship, and up to $50k in incentives to win the race. Would you take that deal? The guys also discussed Mike Joy's comments about privileged rich kid drivers, which clearly seemed like they were aimed at Noah Gragson after his wreck and comments from Homestead.  Finally, Derrick gave his ideal fantasy lineup for the Cup Series at Las Vegas, while J.D. discussed the best longshot to win this weekend.  As always, you can interact with the guys on twitter, instagram, and tik-tok - @staggerpodcast.

This week, J.D. and Derrick talked with friend and 410 Sprint Car owner/driver Ryan Broughton about all things dirt racing.    Ryan primarily runs in Ohio, but the conversation covered a ton of ground. Whether it was a discussion about some of the best drivers in Ohio, what it's like to race against Kyle Larson and Christopher Bell, or even some of the finer technical aspects of sprint car setup, Ryan brought a ton of insight and was a blast to talk to.   He also had thoughts on the upcoming Bristol dirt races, what it's like to race against legends, and which late-night travel stop is his go-to destination (s'up Sheetz).   As always, follow us on twitter, instagram, and tik-tok with one handle: @staggerpodcast   Links: Ryan's Twitter Our Twitter Ryan's Duel Against Steve Kinser at Atomic Speedway

Today, J.D. is flying solo, as Derrick had some prior commitments and couldn't make it on this episode. But that's OK, because there was plenty to talk about. The story of the weekend was William Byron getting his second win, and dominating the latter parts of the Dixie Vodka 400 at Homestead. But his wasn't the only big story coming out of the Cup Series, as Michael McDowell is also making it known that Front Row Motorsports has to be reckoned with this season. Also, J.D. discussed whether "Mike" and "Bill" are better names than "Michael" and "William."     J.D. also talked about Tyler Reddick's great run to the finish, Kevin Harvick having a quietly good start to the season, and the problems for Matt DiBenedetto continuing to mount in his final season with the Wood Brothers.     There was also plenty of talk about Noah Gragson's wreck in the Xfinity Series, Myatt Snider's win, and how the Xfinity Series is more fun than the Cup Series at the moment.    Weigh in with your thoughts - @staggerpodcast is the handle on twitter, instagram, and tik-tok.

The NASCAR Cup Series has moved on from Daytona, but they're still in Florida. J.D. and Derrick give you their picks for Homestead, drivers to think about for your fantasy lineups, and why the car that could very well be the biggest mover on Sunday should be called the "Croissant Rocket."  Additionally, Chip Ganassi got in trouble because of his guest that he brought to Daytona last weekend, and Denny Hamlin was very interested in this guest's return to the garage. The guys also discussed the IndyCar test at Barber Motorsports Park, the Bristol Dirt Race qualifying procedures for Cup as well as the World of Outlaws, and finally, how important Steve Park's win at Rockingham 20 years ago was for NASCAR.  As always, you can hit us up on twitter, instagram, or tik-tok, all by using the handle @staggerpodcast.

In this special episode, J.D. Smith talked with Brian Murphy, a fabricator for Stewart Haas Racing. Brian is a sports car fan as well as being someone who loves NASCAR, and has a very interesting story about how he got his start in motorsports.  In this conversation, the guys discussed how to improve some things with the NASCAR road racing setup. Brian also has an interesting idea about a separate points championship for the NASCAR road courses, how the Next Gen /Gen 7 car will be different (and how it will be the same) and much more about what it's like to work for one of the biggest teams in NASCAR. Thanks for listening, hope you enjoyed the conversation as much as we did! 

This week, the guys talk about Christopher Bell's huge win on the Daytona Road Course. Both J.D. and Derrick have been cheering for Christopher at various dirt tracks for years, so they were both very happy to see him get the first win of his career. Of course, Chase Elliott fans will feel like he was unfortunate to say the least, given the circumstances around the caution NASCAR threw for rain that barely touched the track. The guys discussed that situation, the ongoing Brad Keselowski-Joey Logano feud, why Tyler Reddick got absolutely screwed over by his teammate Austin Dillon, and how Dale Earnhardt, Jr. is getting more involved with IndyCar. Yes, IndyCar. It's awesome. Oh, and of course, the guys also had to spend a few minutes talking about how Daniel Suarez vomited in his helmet. Gross.Interact with these guys now on twitter, instagram, and Tik-Tok at the same handle - @staggerpodcast

Oh, we're still watching cars go around Daytona, although this weekend, it will feel more like the Rolex 24 than the Daytona 500. J.D. and Derrick embrace road racing, and being wild degenerates when it comes to picking some drivers for daily fantasy and gambling purposes. In this episode, they break down some of the factors that go into picking a good lineup for the road course, and give you their picks for the best chance to win at Daytona.As always, interact with the guys on twitter, instagram, and TikTok - @staggerpodcast. And feel free to leave the podcast a review on your favorite podcast app. 

This week on the show, we discuss the 2021 Daytona 500 - the good, the bad, and the William Byron dropping debris all over the track. How does NASCAR fix their rain delay problem at Daytona? And should they really be worried about 9am starts in California? Of course, there was a lot of discussion about Michael McDowell winning the Daytona 500. Not only is McDriver now a NASCAR winner and a Daytona 500 champion, he's also locked into the playoffs. Wild! Brad Keselowski and Joey Logano getting together on the final lap caused a massive accident, and may have cost Brad his best chance at a Daytona 500 victory. We also talked about everyone having the runs (giggle) and the ways some guys ineffectively try to block the runs (giggle again). There was also plenty to get into with the Xfinity and Truck races, plus Kurt Busch hinted at retirement in an interesting video, and Ty Gibbs had a lot of people fired up with his comments after the ARCA race. We discussed all of that as well, and so much more. NASCAR is back, and we couldn't be more excited! Thanks to all of our new listeners this season, make sure you subscribe to this podcast, and follow us on our social channels - twitter, instagram, and tik-tok - @staggerpodcast.

Oh it's here. It's really here. The Daytona 500 is this weekend, and we have plenty to discuss. J.D. and Derrick talked about some of their favorite Daytona 500 memories, some of the drivers to watch this season, and who they think will win this race (please note, their predictions are crazy.) They also talked quite extensively about some of the massive safety improvements in NASCAR in the wake of the 20 year anniversary of the death of Dale Earnhardt. Both JD and Derrick shared their memories of that tragic day, and how the sport has changed since his passing.In the second segment, it was time for 2021 Cup playoff predictions and NASCAR fantasy and gambling advice. If you play DFS, you will want to listen to this. Plus, you can find out who will make JD $1,000 if he wins the Daytona 500. In the third segment, J.D. talked with the Dick Trickle Racing Fantasy League about their fantasy draft, how they set it up, and who they think will win it all this year. Tons of things to chew on as you set your lineups for fantasy racing this season.Interact with us as always on social media - twitter, instagram, and tiktok - @staggerpodcast 

On this episode, JD and Derrick get you ready for the wild world of Xfinity and Trucks in NASCAR. Can Austin Cindric and Sheldon Creed defend their championships? Hailie Deegan is getting all the hype - will she live up to it? And will AJ Allmendinger win every road course race on the Xfinity circuit? This episode is especially for you if you enjoy NASCAR, but haven't followed these series as intently, or maybe forgot what some of the big storylines are. It's like college football - see the stars of NASCAR before they make it to the big time!Let us know what you think of this episode - interact on twitter, instagram, and tiktok with one handle: @staggerpodcast

Oh, yes NASCAR fans - REJOICE! Our long winter is over, and the Cup season is upon us again.Join lifelong NASCAR fans J.D. and Derrick Smith as they talk about the upcoming season. Can Kyle Busch, Martin Truex Jr., and Kevin Harvick get back into the Championship Four this season after missing out last season? Bubba Wallace, Kyle Larson, and many others find themselves in new rides - how will they do? What are the expectations for those new faces like Chase Briscoe and Ross Chastain? Who will win the Bristol dirt race? And will Chase Elliott defend his championship?Those questions and so many more are discussed in our NASCAR season preview episode. Let us know what you think as always on our social media: Twitter, Instagram, and now Tik-Tok, it's all the same handle: @staggerpodcast

This week, the boys pounded energy drinks, iced coffees, and even the occasional Diet Dew to stay awake for most of the Rolex 24 at Daytona. Listen as the guys recap all the mayhem from Florida, Wayne Taylor being an absolute legend in all ways, and the different types of fans who attend the 24 hour race at Daytona.J.D. and Derrick also had some ideas for multiclass racing in NASCAR, as well as dreaming of an IndyCar race at Daytona. Also, we'll be previewing the NASCAR season next week because racing season is BACK!!!Finally, a big thank you to everyone who is jumping on board the Stagger Wagon - the last few weeks have been some of our most listened to episodes to date. Thanks for being awesome listeners! 

This week, Derrick and JD took a deep dive into everything sports cars, road course racing, and of course, Daytona. The lineup for this year's Rolex 24, what's the difference between an LMP2 and a GTD car, how to watch the race, and who are some of the big names to watch are all discussed.These guys have you covered when it comes to IMSA, as they've been watching this race, and this series, for a long time. Even though they can't be there in person, they are stoked to watch one of the greatest endurance races in the world this weekend. Whether you've watched every hour of every Rolex 24, or if you've never even watched a lap of sports car racing, you need to watch this weekend, and this is the podcast to help you get ready for the Rolex 24 at Daytona!Interact with the guys, and check out Derrick's photos from previous Rolex 24 Hour races, on twitter and instagram - @staggerpodcast

This week, JD and Derrick recap all the drama, the excitement, and the dirt maintenance of the 2021 Chili Bowl! Kyle Larson got the win, Christopher Bell got on the flip counter, and there were a lot of questions about why it always take so long to prep a dirt track. All of that was discussed, as was the idea of whether or not it's good for guys like Chase Elliott to come to races like the Chili Bowl (spoiler alert: it is).Plus, the guys talked about chili recipes, Sammy Swindell conspiracy theories, and the enigmatic career of Marco Andretti, as he steps away from a full-time IndyCar ride.Thanks for listening! Hit us up on twitter @staggerpodcast  

This week, J.D. and Derrick talked about one of the best races of the year, the Chili Bowl! From the history of the event, which drivers to keep an eye on, and a couple of picks to win the whole thing, the guys broke it down so you can be informed when you watch the action this week!Follow for more on twitter and instagram @staggerpodcast!

On this week's show, the guys discuss 10 things they are looking forward to in 2021 in NASCAR, INDYCAR, IMSA, and even F1 (because we are apparently an F1 podcast now).There is plenty of discussion of the most interesting turn of the NASCAR season, the impact of Jimmie Johnson in INDYCAR, and even a prediction about something huge being announced in 2021 that will have an impact on NASCAR in 2022. Plus, Derrick records from a closet full of cardboard and gives us Too Much Information, JD discusses his love of The Rock, and much more. Thanks for listening!

Well, this year has been...a hell of a year for sure. Many people had a year that was much different than they planned, and the racing world was obviously no different. So this week, as we bid 2020 a much-needed farewell, the guys took a look back on the year that was in NASCAR. Check out our top 5 moments, plus some honorable mentions, and tell us what you are looking forward to in 2021. You can do so by hitting us up @staggerpodcast on twitter and instagram. Happy New Year! 

If you enjoy racing, or cars in general, or technical stuff, or all of the above, you should probably be following Bozi Tatarevic on twitter (@BoziTatarevic, duh). He's a mechanic, writer, and all around good dude who also appreciates a well-made biscuit. He also worked on the AIM Vasser Sullivan Lexus that ran the GTD class in IMSA this year. Bozi was at the NASCAR Next Gen test in Charlotte in November, and had a lot of great information about what NASCAR fans can expect from that car when it debuts in 2022. From a flat undercarriage to sequential shifting, engine noises and ride heights, JD and Derrick gleaned a great deal of info from Bozi. There's also a fair amount of discussion about where to find a good biscuit in Ohio (hint: trust the Amish), and how good it will be to have fans back at the race track. Give it a listen, and thanks for checking out the Stagger Podcast!

This week, J.D. and Derrick welcome in two buddies of theirs - Ory Roberts and Justin May - to talk about their favorite broadcasters of all-time in the world of motorsports. And some interesting names came up!They also talked pit road reporters, best team of announcers, and of course, the worst announcers of all-time. And if you think they got it right or wrong, let them know - @staggerpodcast on twitter and instagram!

Haha, no, despite the title, this is not just a Formula 1 podcast, but it sure feels like that over the last couple of weeks. JD and Derrick spent a good amount of time talking about the Sergio Perez victory in Bahrain, the debacle that was the Mercedes pit stop, and how it's hard to feel bad for Mercedes while also feeling very bad for George Russell.Also, Romain Grosjean is doing well after his terrifying accident, to the point he is giving interviews and talking about what it was like to be stuck in a car that had been split in half and lit on fire. J.D. thinks it was a good metaphor for 2020. Like what you're hearing? Subscribe for more racing discussion every week!

This week, the guys talked about Formula 1, which they never do! Naturally, much of the chatter centered on the Romain Grosjean accident, safety advances in racing, and of course, Lewis Hamilton testing positive for Covid. But there was also discussion about near oval-track racing in F1, which is weird but we're here for it.The guys also talked about Chase Elliott's offseason (where he'll be racing more than ever), the World of Outlaws 2021 schedule, and which driver we'd like to see make the move to F1. If you like the podcast, leave a review so that others can find it. Cheers, and Stay Staggered!

This week, the guys decided to try something different - talking about one driver, race, track, or motor sports figure for an entire episode. Given it's the offseason, you might see a few more of these episodes over the next couple of months. We're calling this "The Rollback", and our first subject is a NASCAR driver from the 80s and 90s named Lake Speed. You might have heard the name, but you might not be aware of just how accomplished he was prior to his turn in NASCAR. Find out how Lake Speed toured the world, duked it out with Ayrton Senna, and ultimately tamed one of NASCAR's toughest tracks. And also, find out which NASCAR television personality tried to punch him out on national TV. In this episode, J.D. and Derrick are joined by Ory Roberts, a friend of the program, racing fantasy league operator, and all-around knowledgeable NASCAR fan as they take a look back on Lake Speed's career. Let the guys know your thoughts on this episode on social media; twitter and instagram is the same handle - @staggerpodcast

This week, J.D. and Derrick recap the 12 Hours at Sebring, the finale to the 2020 IMSA season. They discuss the championships in DPi, GTLM, and GTD, and discuss some of the big news in the world of sports car racing. They also talked about some comments made by Joey Logano - should a racer wreck a lapper if it would help them win a championship?Make sure you subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode. Also, hit us up on social media - @staggerpodcast on twitter and instagram.  

This week, the boys discuss the Phoenix Finale, as Chase Elliott defeats Joey Logano, Brad Keselowski, and Denny Hamlin to claim his first ever NASCAR Cup championship at the age of 24. There was much discussion about the trajectory this puts him on, what his place in NASCAR will be, and how he is clearly the most bankable star in NASCAR at the moment. Other topics of discussion - Denny Hamlin misses out again; Phoenix or Homestead; is there a conspiracy afoot in NASCAR (probably not) ; and what does the 2021 season schedule look like?The conversation also turned to Jimmie Johnson, and his legacy in NASCAR. How will you remember him? The guys shared their thoughts as well as some of yours.Interact with us online @staggerpodcast on twitter and instagram and let us know what you thought of this episode. 

This week, J.D. and Derrick discuss the shocking result at Martinsville - Chase Elliott getting the win (not that shocking), which helped bump Kevin Harvick out of the playoffs. Should NASCAR lock in the regular season champion to the final weekend automatically? The guys and Stagger Nation weigh in. Also, they preview the final four at Phoenix - what would it mean for Chase Elliott, Denny Hamlin, Brad Keselowski or Joey Logano to grab the trophy this weekend? Plus, Scott Dixon is possibly the INDYCAR GOAT, NASCAR needs a STEM program, and Derrick is mad at Taco Bell. Follow on twitter and instagram @staggerpodcast.

This week, the boys recap Joey Logano's win at Kansas, and all of the silly season moves that were announced recently. How will Erik Jones's career go now that he is in the 43? Will Chase Briscoe be able to emulate his idol Tony Stewart in the legendary 14 car? How will Hailie Deegan fare in the NASCAR Truck Series?Plus, playoff discussion, looking ahead to the offseason, and more. Interact on twitter and instagram - @staggerpodcast

The boys are back to discuss the Roval, the dominance of Chase Elliott, and Kyle Busch's season from hell. They also talked Clint Bowyer's announcement that he's moving to the Fox booth next season, and what the playoff picture looks like heading to Kansas. Listen, subscribe, and interact with us - @staggerpodcast on twitter and IG, and check out the Stagger Nation on facebook. 

Twenty episodes! Thanks to everyone who gave the podcast a listen over the last few months, you will never know how much it means to everyone who works on this podcast. The boys started off with some lively discussion about Talladega and the yellow line rule - Dale Jr. says it needs to go away, so of course that had to be talked about. When Redneck Jesus speaks, everyone pays attention.There was also a lot of talk about Alex Bowman moving to the 48 car in 2021, and who will replace him in the 88 (or 5, or 25, whatever number they use). Kyle Larson was essentially kicked out of NASCAR for using a racial slur - can he find a pathway back into the sport after everything that has transpired in 2020? J.D. and Derrick both had strong feelings on the issue.Then, the INDYCAR season is winding down, with two races at Indy on the roadcourse. The boys broke down the GP races and talked about some of the drivers that have impressed them this season with one race to go. Let us know what you want the boys to discuss next on the pod, just tweet at @staggerpodcast. Stay Staggered!