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In this episode, we're joined by Marc Lassen, who shares the captivating story of The Liberty Car—Cadillac US1257X. Discovered in 2005, this Cadillac officer's car had its WWI military history lost to time until Marc's dedicated efforts to authenticate and preserve its legacy. Through collecting countless artifacts and meticulous research, Marc has brought to light the extraordinary service record of this unique vehicle. The Liberty Car was present in France throughout the entirety of the U.S. involvement in the Great War, from 1917 to 1919, making it a rare survivor with a verified record of service in WWI. It played a crucial role during the Second Battle of the Marne, providing support to French and American troops near the front line. Additionally, Eleanor Butler Roosevelt, wife of Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., utilized the Cadillac for two months while scouting locations for soldiers' rest and recuperation leave, as documented in her autobiography. Despite the passage of time, the Liberty Car has survived remarkably intact, retaining many original materials, components, and evidence of its wartime service. Recognizing its historical significance, the car was added to the Historic Vehicle Association's National Historic Vehicle Register and the U.S. Department of the Interior Historic American Engineering Record in 2014.
In honor of Memorial Day, Robert Ross re-examines the origins of Jeep--a vehicle that ultimately turned the tides of WW2 for America. By delving back into interviews with author Paul Bruno and Director Head of Design for Jeep, along with a new interview with Randall Withrow of the U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum (which houses an impressive collection of Jeeps used in the U.S. military, including the oldest surviving Jeep, the Ford Pygmy), Robert unpacks the underdog story of where Jeep came from and where it's going. Episode Timestamps: Prologue (0:00) - Robert introduces this very special episode examining the origins of Jeep and its pivotal role in WWII by considering where the name 'Jeep' actually came from. Past (3:39) - Paul Bruno, author of ‘Project Management in History: The First Jeep' and ‘The Original Jeeps,' explains the unlikely origins of the first models of Jeep--made with minimal time in a period of national crisis. Present (16:17) - Randall Withrow of the U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum explains what has been done to honor and preserve Jeeps since WWII and explains how the museum came to have its collection--including the original Ford Pygmy, which is a part of the National Register of Historic Vehicles. Future (29:06)- Mark Allen, Director Head of Design at Jeep explains how the past designs inform the present and what the company has in mind for the future, as the brand growing into a worldwide name. Epilogue (36:28) - Robert muses on how such a small and simply made car could have impacted the world so greatly. Special thanks to Casey Maxon and the Historic Vehicle Association. Learn More: https://memorialmuseum.org/ jeep.com https://originaljeeps.com/ https://www.hagerty.com/drivers-club/my-garage/78598943/national-historic-vehicle-register ------------------ Learn More: Cars That Matter Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Hosted by: Robert Ross Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick A CurtCo Media production See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In honor of Memorial Day, Robert Ross re-examines the origins of Jeep--a vehicle that ultimately turned the tides of WW2 for America. By delving back into interviews with author Paul Bruno and Director Head of Design for Jeep, along with a new interview with Randall Withrow of the U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum (which houses an impressive collection of Jeeps used in the U.S. military, including the oldest surviving Jeep, the Ford Pygmy), Robert unpacks the underdog story of where Jeep came from and where it's going. Episode Timestamps: Prologue (0:00) - Robert introduces this very special episode examining the origins of Jeep and its pivotal role in WWII by considering where the name 'Jeep' actually came from. Past (3:39) - Paul Bruno, author of ‘Project Management in History: The First Jeep’ and ‘The Original Jeeps,’ explains the unlikely origins of the first models of Jeep--made with minimal time in a period of national crisis. Present (16:17) - Randall Withrow of the U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum explains what has been done to honor and preserve Jeeps since WWII and explains how the museum came to have its collection--including the original Ford Pygmy, which is a part of the National Register of Historic Vehicles. Future (29:06)- Mark Allen, Director Head of Design at Jeep explains how the past designs inform the present and what the company has in mind for the future, as the brand growing into a worldwide name. Epilogue (36:28) - Robert muses on how such a small and simply made car could have impacted the world so greatly. Special thanks to Casey Maxon and the Historic Vehicle Association. Learn More: https://memorialmuseum.org/ jeep.com https://originaljeeps.com/ https://www.hagerty.com/drivers-club/my-garage/78598943/national-historic-vehicle-register ------------------ Learn More: Cars That Matter Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Hosted by: Robert Ross Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick A CurtCo Media production See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jim Marietta and Ted Sutton, members of the Original Venice Crew, discuss their time working with Carroll Shelby, Ken Miles, Peter Brock, and Phil Remington, and the purpose of their new company and the cars they seek to create and preserve. Robert introduces Jim and Ted (0:39) and Jim explains 'who' the Original Venice Crew is and what they do (1:04). Then, Ted shares the story of how he got hired by Carroll Shelby and some of his time working in his shop (5:14) before Jim shares his own unlikely story of how he became a member of the team (9:58). After a quick break, Ted shares even more stories of his time working with the likes of Shelby, Miles, Brock, and Remington (13:08). and his unique role in developing the 427 Cobra (16:36). Then Jim insists Ted share the story of Carroll Shelby taking Ted for a ride (22:05). Then, Ted explains the importance of the Daytona Couple being a part of the Historic Vehicle Association's National Register (25:30). Part 2 of the conversation will be released next week! ------------------ Learn More: Cars That Matter Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Hosted by: Robert Ross Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick A CurtCo Media production See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jim Marietta and Ted Sutton, members of the Original Venice Crew, discuss their time working with Carroll Shelby, Ken Miles, Peter Brock, and Phil Remington, and the purpose of their new company and the cars they seek to create and preserve. Robert introduces Jim and Ted (0:39) and Jim explains 'who' the Original Venice Crew is and what they do (1:04). Then, Ted shares the story of how he got hired by Carroll Shelby and some of his time working in his shop (5:14) before Jim shares his own unlikely story of how he became a member of the team (9:58). After a quick break, Ted shares even more stories of his time working with the likes of Shelby, Miles, Brock, and Remington (13:08). and his unique role in developing the 427 Cobra (16:36). Then Jim insists Ted share the story of Carroll Shelby taking Ted for a ride (22:05). Then, Ted explains the importance of the Daytona Couple being a part of the Historic Vehicle Association's National Register (25:30). Part 2 of the conversation will be released next week! ------------------ Learn More: Cars That Matter Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Hosted by: Robert Ross Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick A CurtCo Media production See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Preserving a piece of history: 'Most vehicles that sit outside unattended for four decades aren’t destined to ever move again. But this 1966 Volkswagen Type 2 Deluxe Station Wagon isn’t just any Bus – it’s a piece of civil-rights history, and a memory of a family that spent decades working to make the country a better place.' Travel through the history of 'The Jenkins' Bus'--beginning with VW origins in WW2, through the role the bus played in the Civil Rights Movement, and to its current resting place in the records of The Library of Congress. With excerpts of previous interviews (with Russell Hayes, Brian Howard, and Diane Parker), this special episode also features new interviews with Elaine and Bill Jenkins, children of Esau and Janie B. Jenkins, and Braeden and Collin Howard, two of the conservationists who spent the most time working on the historic vehicle. Episode Notes: (0:05) Prologue - Robert introduces 'The Jenkins' Bus' and introduces some of the key figures in this episode. (2:20) The History of Volkswagen - Russell Hayes explains how Volkswagen survived World War 2 and how its image was reshaped when it came to America (9:45) The Jenkins - Elaine and Bill Jenkins share the story of their parents and the microbus, explaining the purpose of the car in the community, and the meaning behind its famous slogan: "Love is Progress, Hate is Expensive." (23:48) The Conservation Process - Braeden and Collin Howard join Diane Parker to explain the conservation process and the future of the car. (34:10) Epilogue - Robert ends the episode with some final thoughts from The Jenkins. Special thanks to: Russell Hayes, Brian Howard, Braeden Howard, Collin Howard, Abraham "Bill" Jenkins, Elaine Jenkins, Diane Parker ------------------ Learn More: Cars That Matter Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Hosted by: Robert Ross Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick A CurtCo Media production See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Preserving a piece of history: 'Most vehicles that sit outside unattended for four decades aren't destined to ever move again. But this 1966 Volkswagen Type 2 Deluxe Station Wagon isn't just any Bus – it's a piece of civil-rights history, and a memory of a family that spent decades working to make the country a better place.' Travel through the history of 'The Jenkins' Bus'--beginning with VW origins in WW2, through the role the bus played in the Civil Rights Movement, and to its current resting place in the records of The Library of Congress. With excerpts of previous interviews (with Russell Hayes, Brian Howard, and Diane Parker), this special episode also features new interviews with Elaine and Bill Jenkins, children of Esau and Janie B. Jenkins, and Braeden and Collin Howard, two of the conservationists who spent the most time working on the historic vehicle. Episode Notes: (0:05) Prologue - Robert introduces 'The Jenkins' Bus' and introduces some of the key figures in this episode. (2:20) The History of Volkswagen - Russell Hayes explains how Volkswagen survived World War 2 and how its image was reshaped when it came to America (9:45) The Jenkins - Elaine and Bill Jenkins share the story of their parents and the microbus, explaining the purpose of the car in the community, and the meaning behind its famous slogan: "Love is Progress, Hate is Expensive." (23:48) The Conservation Process - Braeden and Collin Howard join Diane Parker to explain the conservation process and the future of the car. (34:10) Epilogue - Robert ends the episode with some final thoughts from The Jenkins. Special thanks to: Russell Hayes, Brian Howard, Braeden Howard, Collin Howard, Abraham "Bill" Jenkins, Elaine Jenkins, Diane Parker ------------------ Learn More: Cars That Matter Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Hosted by: Robert Ross Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick A CurtCo Media production See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Following a brief introduction, Paul shares how a television show introduced him to a story that would change his live forever (2:33). Then Robert sets the stage for the pacifism in the US during the 30s and Paul explains the needs the Army had at the time (4:48) before the Jeep origin story pivots into a new phase with Bantam, Willys, and Ford vying to get the government contract despite unclear requirements from the Army (7:07). Despite an early victory by Bantam, both Willys and Ford continued to fight (12:05) with a major deciding factor being the final weight of the vehicle--a stat that remains unexact to this day (15:32). After a short break, Robert notes that some of the original Jeeps are part of the National Registry maintained by the HVA and Paul shares what happened to the original makes and how all the designs were combined (18:36). Then Paul explains who eventually made the cars--and how the Army's thinking changed once the reality of war set in (22:48). Then Robert asks what happened after the war and how the jeeps became Jeeps (27:50), and Paul muses on sharing history and honoring the lives, sacrifices, and triumphs of the men and women who made America what it is today (31:35). Check out more from Paul: https://www.dispatchermagazine.com/books/autograph-copy-of-paul-brunos-the-original-jeeps http://originaljeeps.com/ https://www.facebook.com/The-Original-Jeeps-104448048045991 https://www.amazon.com/ORIGINAL-JEEPS-Paul-R-Bruno/dp/0578721759 https://www.battlefields.org/ Listen to related episodes: Diane Parker and the Historic Vehicle Association https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/39-diane-parker-and-the-historic-vehicle-association/id1485928924?i=1000498776283 Russell Hayes and "Volkswagen Beetles and Buses" https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-russell-hayes-volkswagen-beetles-buses-smaller-smarter/id1485928924?i=1000499892795 ----------------- Learn More: Cars That Matter Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Hosted by: Robert Ross Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick A CurtCo Media production See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Following a brief introduction, Paul shares how a television show introduced him to a story that would change his live forever (2:33). Then Robert sets the stage for the pacifism in the US during the 30s and Paul explains the needs the Army had at the time (4:48) before the Jeep origin story pivots into a new phase with Bantam, Willys, and Ford vying to get the government contract despite unclear requirements from the Army (7:07). Despite an early victory by Bantam, both Willys and Ford continued to fight (12:05) with a major deciding factor being the final weight of the vehicle--a stat that remains unexact to this day (15:32). After a short break, Robert notes that some of the original Jeeps are part of the National Registry maintained by the HVA and Paul shares what happened to the original makes and how all the designs were combined (18:36). Then Paul explains who eventually made the cars--and how the Army's thinking changed once the reality of war set in (22:48). Then Robert asks what happened after the war and how the jeeps became Jeeps (27:50), and Paul muses on sharing history and honoring the lives, sacrifices, and triumphs of the men and women who made America what it is today (31:35). Check out more from Paul: https://www.dispatchermagazine.com/books/autograph-copy-of-paul-brunos-the-original-jeeps http://originaljeeps.com/ https://www.facebook.com/The-Original-Jeeps-104448048045991 https://www.amazon.com/ORIGINAL-JEEPS-Paul-R-Bruno/dp/0578721759 https://www.battlefields.org/ Listen to related episodes: Diane Parker and the Historic Vehicle Association https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/39-diane-parker-and-the-historic-vehicle-association/id1485928924?i=1000498776283 Russell Hayes and "Volkswagen Beetles and Buses" https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-russell-hayes-volkswagen-beetles-buses-smaller-smarter/id1485928924?i=1000499892795 ----------------- Learn More: Cars That Matter Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Hosted by: Robert Ross Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick A CurtCo Media production See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After a brief introduction, Robert takes a moment to marvel at the sheer number of Volkswagens that were produced (1:14) before Russell dives into the unexpected history of the 'people's car'...specifically the Beetle (3:02). Then Robert asks Russell to drill into the history of Volkwagen after the British involvement following WW2 with a man named Heinz Nordhoff (7:19) and VW's efforts to go international and the difficulties in sharing the Beetle's new style with other cultures (8:50). Then Russell examines the complex shared history of Porsche and Volkswagen and how the companies have continued their relationship to the present day (10:49). Before taking a short break, Robert asks Russell for his advice on the most collectible Volkswagens (13:07). Robert takes a brief detour to discuss the more obscure makes and models created by Volkswagen--like the Karmann Ghia (15:57) before steering the conversation back to the Volkswagen's arrival in America (18:41) and the creation and impact of the VW Bus (22:52). To conclude, the two men speculate on the future of the Beetle and Bus designs in Volkwagen's legacy (27:36). Get Russell's book: https://www.amazon.com/Volkswagen-Beetles-Buses-Smaller-Smarter/dp/0760367663 (Due to some technical difficulties in connecting across continents, there are some audio glitches at certain points in the recording that could not be removed.) LISTEN TO RELATED EPISODES: Brian Howard and Automobile Conservation https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/38-brian-howard-and-automobile-conservation/id1485928924?i=1000497743682 Diane Parker and the Historic Vehicle Association https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/39-diane-parker-and-the-historic-vehicle-association/id1485928924?i=1000498776283 Freeman Thomas: Part 1 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/21-freeman-thomas-part-1/id1485928924?i=1000482838944 ------------------ Learn More: Cars That Matter Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Hosted by: Robert Ross Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick A CurtCo Media production See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After a brief introduction, Robert takes a moment to marvel at the sheer number of Volkswagens that were produced (1:14) before Russell dives into the unexpected history of the 'people's car'...specifically the Beetle (3:02). Then Robert asks Russell to drill into the history of Volkwagen after the British involvement following WW2 with a man named Heinz Nordhoff (7:19) and VW's efforts to go international and the difficulties in sharing the Beetle's new style with other cultures (8:50). Then Russell examines the complex shared history of Porsche and Volkswagen and how the companies have continued their relationship to the present day (10:49). Before taking a short break, Robert asks Russell for his advice on the most collectible Volkswagens (13:07). Robert takes a brief detour to discuss the more obscure makes and models created by Volkswagen--like the Karmann Ghia (15:57) before steering the conversation back to the Volkswagen's arrival in America (18:41) and the creation and impact of the VW Bus (22:52). To conclude, the two men speculate on the future of the Beetle and Bus designs in Volkwagen's legacy (27:36). Get Russell's book: https://www.amazon.com/Volkswagen-Beetles-Buses-Smaller-Smarter/dp/0760367663 (Due to some technical difficulties in connecting across continents, there are some audio glitches at certain points in the recording that could not be removed.) LISTEN TO RELATED EPISODES: Brian Howard and Automobile Conservation https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/38-brian-howard-and-automobile-conservation/id1485928924?i=1000497743682 Diane Parker and the Historic Vehicle Association https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/39-diane-parker-and-the-historic-vehicle-association/id1485928924?i=1000498776283 Freeman Thomas: Part 1 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/21-freeman-thomas-part-1/id1485928924?i=1000482838944 ------------------ Learn More: Cars That Matter Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Hosted by: Robert Ross Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick A CurtCo Media production See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After an introduction, Robert asks Diane to explain the goals and purpose of the Historic Vehicle Association (0:59), the qualifications that a car must meet to be included in the National Registry (3:47), and the process the vehicles must go through for documentation (5:07). Robert asks what types of vehicles are up for consideration (7:25) before Diane shares the stories of two of the most recent inductees: a 1921 Duesenberg Straight 8 (9:24) and a Dodge Challenger with a very special history (12:15). Then Robert rewinds to the first inductees: a Shelby Daytona Coupe (14:22), a 1964 Meyers Manx (15:18), and the Maserati 8CTF "Boyle Special" (16:21). After a short break, Robert and Diane discuss a recent addition to the Register--The Jenkins' Bus--an iconic vehicle marking an important time in the Civil Rights Movement in America, as well as all the work and love that was required to preserve its special history (18:12). Before moving on, Robert asks to discuss just two more cars that caught his eye: a 1964 Chevy Impala called 'Gypsy Rose' (23:36) and, the 'star' of Ferris Bueller's Day Off, the 1985 Modena Spyder Ferrari (26:34). Robert brings things to close by asking how listeners can engage with the HVA--from suggesting cars to events, such as Cars on the Capitol and the Drive History Conference (29:19)--before Diane concludes with her own story of how she developed her love for cars (35:35). Learn More: https://www.historicvehicle.org/ CHECK OUT MORE RELATED EPISODES: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/38-brian-howard-and-automobile-conservation/id1485928924?i=1000497743682 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/18-terry-karges-and-the-petersen-automotive-museum/id1485928924?i=1000476396066 ------------------ Learn More: Cars That Matter Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Hosted by: Robert Ross Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick A CurtCo Media production See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After an introduction, Robert asks Diane to explain the goals and purpose of the Historic Vehicle Association (0:59), the qualifications that a car must meet to be included in the National Registry (3:47), and the process the vehicles must go through for documentation (5:07). Robert asks what types of vehicles are up for consideration (7:25) before Diane shares the stories of two of the most recent inductees: a 1921 Duesenberg Straight 8 (9:24) and a Dodge Challenger with a very special history (12:15). Then Robert rewinds to the first inductees: a Shelby Daytona Coupe (14:22), a 1964 Meyers Manx (15:18), and the Maserati 8CTF "Boyle Special" (16:21). After a short break, Robert and Diane discuss a recent addition to the Register--The Jenkins' Bus--an iconic vehicle marking an important time in the Civil Rights Movement in America, as well as all the work and love that was required to preserve its special history (18:12). Before moving on, Robert asks to discuss just two more cars that caught his eye: a 1964 Chevy Impala called 'Gypsy Rose' (23:36) and, the 'star' of Ferris Bueller's Day Off, the 1985 Modena Spyder Ferrari (26:34). Robert brings things to close by asking how listeners can engage with the HVA--from suggesting cars to events, such as Cars on the Capitol and the Drive History Conference (29:19)--before Diane concludes with her own story of how she developed her love for cars (35:35). Learn More: https://www.historicvehicle.org/ CHECK OUT MORE RELATED EPISODES: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/38-brian-howard-and-automobile-conservation/id1485928924?i=1000497743682 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/18-terry-karges-and-the-petersen-automotive-museum/id1485928924?i=1000476396066 ------------------ Learn More: Cars That Matter Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Hosted by: Robert Ross Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick A CurtCo Media production See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Robert begins by asking Brian to explain how he got into conservation, but more importantly, what conservation is and how it's different than restoration (1:14). Then, Brian shares how his early career spent working on carriage conservation (7:12) prepared him for his transition into 'industrial conservation' and his specialty with cars (9:43). Robert and Brian then discuss the unhelpful instinct of some car collectors to 'clean the machine' and the benefits of simply removing the layers of dust and dirt in old finds (11:37) before Robert asks Brian to detail how he approaches conservation vs. restoration on a case by case basis with his clients (16:14). After a short break, Robert asks Brian to talk about one unique car he had worked on recently, The Jenkins' Bus--an important fixture in SC during the Civil Rights Movement that has now been permanently placed on the Historic Vehicle Association's National Registry (19:23). Brian shares the history of B.R. Howard and Associates and its philosophy in the conservation industry (23:35). Then Robert asks Brian to share his involvement in and thoughts about the American Institute of Conservators and the code of ethics they uphold (28:23), before sharing some stories about what he has in his own garage (34:00). ------------------ Learn More: Cars That Matter Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Hosted by: Robert Ross Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter Sound Engineering by: Michael Kennedy Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick A CurtCo Media production See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Robert begins by asking Brian to explain how he got into conservation, but more importantly, what conservation is and how it's different than restoration (1:14). Then, Brian shares how his early career spent working on carriage conservation (7:12) prepared him for his transition into 'industrial conservation' and his specialty with cars (9:43). Robert and Brian then discuss the unhelpful instinct of some car collectors to 'clean the machine' and the benefits of simply removing the layers of dust and dirt in old finds (11:37) before Robert asks Brian to detail how he approaches conservation vs. restoration on a case by case basis with his clients (16:14). After a short break, Robert asks Brian to talk about one unique car he had worked on recently, The Jenkins' Bus--an important fixture in SC during the Civil Rights Movement that has now been permanently placed on the Historic Vehicle Association's National Registry (19:23). Brian shares the history of B.R. Howard and Associates and its philosophy in the conservation industry (23:35). Then Robert asks Brian to share his involvement in and thoughts about the American Institute of Conservators and the code of ethics they uphold (28:23), before sharing some stories about what he has in his own garage (34:00). ------------------ Learn More: Cars That Matter Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Hosted by: Robert Ross Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter Sound Engineering by: Michael Kennedy Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick A CurtCo Media production See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
McKeel Hagerty began playing with cars as a boy and hasn't stopped since, turning his parents' local insurance agency into an automotive lifestyle brand known internationally for its passion and commitment to the car and driving community. Since 1997, he has been the CEO of Hagerty, the world's largest provider of specialty insurance and hobby support to the enthusiast vehicle market. During his tenure, the company also has evolved into a leading automotive media company and the hub of the biggest car club in America, Hagerty Driver's Club, with more than a million members. From the beginning, McKeel has felt a responsibility to support organizations and initiatives that help ensure that classic vehicles and the driving lifestyle continue to thrive well into the future. The company's youth programs have helped thousands of young drivers learn the nearly lost art of driving a manual transmission, and through a new partnership with Skip Barber Driving Academy, thousands more are upgrading their driving skills so they feel more confident and in control on the road. The company also supports the Historic Vehicle Association, which works on behalf of its nearly 600,000 members to protect and celebrate the automobile as a significant part of our culture, and the RPM Foundation, which provides restoration and preservation training programs for the next generation of automotive, motorcycle and marine craftsmen. Most recently, the company has doubled-down on its belief that cars are meant to be driven by acquiring MotorsportReg.com, which is used by millions of motorsports fans to find and register for motorsports events from track days and road rallies to vintage races and motocross. McKeel is the recent former Chairman of the Board for YPO, the premier global leadership organization with more than 27,000 chief executives in more than 130 countries. During his term, he traveled the world talking about leadership and success with world leaders and innovators, including Hillary Clinton, Justin Trudeau, London Mayor Sadiq Khan, author and philosopher Yuval Harari, and many others. Many of the lessons learned from those discussions are shared in McKeel's upcoming first book, “Boundless: A Guide to a Flourishing Life in a Disoriented Age,” which will be published by ForbesBooks. What you'll learn about in this episode: How Hagerty is benefitting through the crisis by having built their culture on the idea of being a growth mindset company What it means to dig the well before you're thirsty Why McKeel's first focus when everything first started with the coronavirus was just to get his team breathing Why McKeel likes to go deep with his people, reintroduce them to themselves, and allow them to be human The importance of realizing that you are not just leading people through the reality of the crisis but you're also leading them through their fears and anxiety How significant it is to embrace the fact that you are not just leading minds, you are leading hearts as well How trust is built by showing vulnerability as a leader What leadership lessons McKeel has learned in turning Hagerty from a small local insurance agency into a global market leader and automotive lifestyle brand How Hagerty has been helping employees cope with working from home and the pressures of the coronavirus crisis Additional resources: Website: https://www.hagerty.com/ Twitter: @Hagerty LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mckeelhagerty Website: https://www.goodbowleatery.com/ -- The Good Bowl is a premium fast-casual Vietnamese eatery that offers a fresh, healthy and unique dining experience while providing their guests an opportunity to easily contribute to their communities. The Good Bowl donates $1 to charity for every bowl sold. Guests will have the opportunity to select from three charities that include a local, national and global non- profit organization.
Start your engines – because on this week’s PreserveCast we’re talking historic cars and the history of the American Automobile with Diane Parker, Vice President of the Historic Vehicle Association. Buckle up and hit the clutch, because you’re listening to a revved-up edition of PreserveCast. Diane Parker is Vice President of the Historic Vehicle Association (HVA). Surrounded by gear heads from a young age, Diane developed a love and appreciation for vehicles. Since joining the Historic Vehicle Association in 2013, she has combined her love of vehicles with her expertise in operations management. Focusing on the organization’s overall vision, values, beliefs, and strategic goals, Diane is extremely passionate about the organization’s mission to share the cultural past associated with America’s automotive heritage; and to ensure it is never lost nor forgotten. Two major components of that include Cars at the Capital, their annual exhibition on the National Mall in Washington, DC and, the continued growth of their program that documents historically significant vehicles. That program is the National Historic Vehicle Register. Similar to the Register of Historic Places, and in partnership with the U.S. Department of Interior, the Register program ensures that culturally and historically significant automobiles are fully documented and reside within the Library of Congress in perpetuity.
Tabetha Hammer is the Senior Manager of Car Culture for Hagerty, where she focuses on youth, education, and heritage. These initiatives include the RPM (Reservation Preservation Mentorship) Foundation to support the preservation of the skills and trades necessary for automotive and marine restoration; the Historic Vehicle Association to bring national recognition to our automotive heritage; and Hagerty’s Youth Programs, which breaks down barriers between young people and fun cars to put them behind the wheel. A graduate from McPherson College with a degree in Automotive Restoration Technology and Communications she is active in the car community, serving on the Board of Directors for America’s Automotive Trust and RPM Foundation and previously with the Antique Automobile Club of America. She’s also judged at numerous Concours events.
Will Cheek is the manager of the Southern United States Commercial Insurance Program for Hagerty Insurance Company, a premier classic car and vintage boat insurance company in Traverse City, Michigan. Hagerty was built by people who love cars and offers much more than insurance for collector cars. Hagerty provides valuations, a DriveShare program, automotive media, a great magazine, and they fuel car culture through their Hagerty Youth Program, their Historic Vehicle Association, and the RPM Foundation. Will was struck early in life with an obsession for anything automotive related, so it is appropriate that after college he landed at Hagerty and hasn’t looked back, but only at the road ahead. I have had a number of Hagerty associates on Cars Yeah including McKeel Hagerty, Ashley Shoemaker, Brad Phillips, Diane Fitzgerald, Jonathan Stein, Larry Webster, Lauren Gusler, and Nigel Matthews.
Diane Parker joined the Historic Vehicle Association (HVA) in 2013 as the Director of Operations. She is the lead strategist for the organization and produces the HVA’s annual exhibition on the National Mall. As a congenital optimist and connected leader, Diane approaches life with positivity and authentic purpose in order to cultivate relationships, promote mutual growth, and encourage personal development. Diane has spent the majority of her career in operations management, something she truly enjoys. Thanks to two loving (and tolerant) older brothers, she became a car girl at a very young age. Her role with the HVA couples her love of vehicles and her talent in leading operations. Ask anyone who knows her, and they will tell you that she lives and breathes her dream job! I had the opportunity to spend some time with Diane at the LeMay America’s Car Museum last month at the unveiling of the Bullitt Mustang. That’s right, Steve McQueen’s old ride.
Mark Gessler is the President and Founder of the Historic Vehicle Association, known as the HVA, and the National Historic Vehicle Register, a public/private partnership with the U.S. Department of the Interior and Library of Congress. The HVA’s goal is to document and preserve America’s automotive heritage for the next 500 years. A former tech entrepreneur turned social entrepreneur, Mark is focused on preserving the global automotive heritage and he also serves as North American Ambassador, representative, and board member for FIVA since 2008. He is the founder of Scuderia SPORTS Zagato that has achieved two overall victories and seven podium finishes in the Mille Miglia since 2010. Mark is a frequent advisor, speaker, judge, competitor, and participant in historic automobile events including the Amelia Island Concours, Pebble Beach Concours, and many others.
History has largely forgotten one of America's most influential motorcars, the 1932 Graham Blue Streak. Designed by Amos Northup, the Blue Streak pioneered numerous features including a low-slung frame and aerodynamic body. The Graham was one of the most copied cars of the 1930s, but is largely a footnote today. The President of the Historic Vehicle Association, Mark Gessler, tells the tale of this fascinating automobile.
So much of what the country is, can be traced to transportation: especially the car. And boy do we love to drive. But with all the talk of mobility services and autonomy, some worry that our wanderlust will wither if we’re not driving for enjoyment anymore. Join John and noted transportation author Peter DeLorenzo, McKeel Hagerty of the Hagerty Group and Mark Gessler from the Historic Vehicle Association for a fascinating discussion of what driving does for Americans.
So much of what the country is, can be traced to transportation: especially the car. And boy do we love to drive. But with all the talk of mobility services and autonomy, some worry that our wanderlust will wither if we’re not driving for enjoyment anymore. Join John and noted transportation author Peter DeLorenzo, McKeel Hagerty of the Hagerty Group and Mark Gessler from the Historic Vehicle Association for a fascinating discussion of what driving does for Americans.
Jeff Allen and Ethan D. hit the road and head to the Motor City - Detroit, Michigan for the annual Shell Eco-marathon and the #MakeThe Future Festival where kids and adults alike gather to push the possibilities of energy, sustainability and our future. During the festival, the Shell Eco-marathon challenges student teams around the world to design, build, test and drive ultra-energy-efficient vehicles. Hear about the startup success story with the guys from Thimble plus Mark Gessler, from the Historic Vehicle Association, joins Skidmarks Show and talks all about the Mille Miglia race in Italy that still happens today! We all remember the 80’s hair bands, spandex pants and eyeliner. Well Steel Panther is keeping rock-n-roll alive! Your hosts bring you a candid interview with drummer Six Zadinia. He may wear makeup but he is part of one of the crudest bands out there; with songs titled “Asian Hooker”, “Fat Girl”, “Just Like Tiger Woods” and “17 Girls in a Row”. Don’t say we didn't warn you! Skidmarks Show brings you twenty four 30 minute bi-weekly Automotive and Rock-n-Roll radio shows broadcasting all year long. With your hosts Jeff Allen from CNBC’s “The Car Chasers” and owner of Flat 12 Gallery and Ethan D. host of the morning radio show “The Rock Show” on FMX. SKIDMARKS SHOW is on iTunes, Podbean, Soundcloud, Podcastcharts.com, Castbox for Androids and SkidmarksShow.comSUBSCRIBE now and don't miss an episode or at least you can pick and choose which ones you listen too! Skidmarks Show is proudly powered by Pennzoil. On all social - #SkidmarksShow
SPECIAL GUEST: Logan Lawson, Owner, Camaro #1What’s better than being Number 1? How about finding and owning Number 1, especially when it’s the very first Chevrolet Camaro. Join John McElroy for the fascinating story of how a teenager from Kansas tracked down and documented the historic car which he now owns. Also on today’s panel is Mark Gessler from the Historic Vehicle Association. Joining John McElroy of Autoline.tv, asking questions and providing insight, is Henry Payne from the Detroit News.Then during our NEWS portion of the show both David Welch from Bloomberg and Seyth Miersma of Motor1 join John and Henry to discuss the following topics:- The First Camaro- The new Luxury brand Genesis- Ford’s move into autonomy- Plus Woodward Dream Cruise