Send us a text

Supported by:
➡️ Red Line Synthetic Oil
➡️ Auto Metal Direct
➡️ POWERtube TV

In this engaging episode, hosts Barry Alt and Annette Bauer welcome Michael Narx, the passionate car enthusiast and host of the Drag Drive Repeat podcast. The conversation delves into Michael's early love for cars, the sentimental value of his grandfather's 66 C10 truck, and his transition from a corporate job to focusing on the drag and drive community. They discuss the exponential growth of drag and drive events, the importance of marketing strategies, and the challenges of maintaining affordability in the racing world. Michael emphasizes the significance of storytelling within the community and the need for data collection to recognize achievements. The episode highlights the camaraderie and shared experiences that make the drag and drive community unique and vibrant. In this conversation, Mike Narx discusses the challenges faced by promoters and the importance of community support among racers. He highlights the evolving role of sponsorship in the racing industry, advocating for a more strategic approach to building relationships with brands.

Takeaways:

• Michael's love for cars began with Hot Wheels and car shows during childhood
• His grandfather's '66 C10 truck holds deep sentimental value and sparked his hands-on involvement
• Building Drag Drive Repeat allowed him to merge passion with purpose
• The drag-and-drive scene is a tight-knit, supportive group
• Racers frequently help one another during events, creating lasting bonds
• Drag-and-drive events have exploded in popularity
• Social media has been critical to the success and visibility of Drag Drive Repeat
• Focusing on a niche audience helped build a loyal and engaged following
• Brands are increasingly recognizing the value of grassroots motorsports
• Successful sponsorships rely on relationships, professionalism, and aligned values

Guest Bio:
Car guy since day one, I still own my first car - my grandfather's '66 C10. After selling cars for 15 years, I moved to logistics and built a brand in my free time. Have hosted 50+ car events (drag races, car shows, drag and drive events, rallies, scavenger hunts) - most for children's charities. Started Drag Drive Repeat in Jan 2022, closing in on 100k followers - more than 5000 pieces of content across social media accounts. Two weekly Live Streams dedicated to the drag and drive community.

Guest:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook

Hosts:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Annette Bauer, Annette Bauer Creative

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

You can reach us at [email protected]

Audio Production by: Mantis Media

Send us a text

Supported by:
➡️ Red Line Synthetic Oil
➡️ Auto Metal Direct
➡️ POWERtube TV

In this episode, we sit down with Ron Hinshaw, the hands-on gearhead turned shop owner behind North Speed and Restoration. Ron takes us on a ride through his 30-year journey in the automotive industry—from BMX bikes and off-road trail rigs to managing a hot rod shop and eventually buying it outright. He opens up about what it takes to go from tech to owner, why relationship-building matters more than instant returns, and the lessons he’s learned while keeping a 40-year shop legacy alive.

Ron shares real-world advice on purchasing a shop, building trust with customers and employees, marketing through car shows and social media, and why your website does matter. Plus, he gives us a glimpse into his days of motocross, ice racing, and mud trucks, and how his love for off-roading and monster truck builds still shows up in his work today.

What You’ll Learn:

• How Ron transitioned from side work and general repair to full-time hot rod building
• Key considerations when buying an existing shop (equipment, name value, customer relationships, and more)
• Why showing up at events like SEMA and Goodguys is critical for long-term success
• The power of professional photography, solid branding, and clear client communication
• Why Ron believes success is when his team thrives, like buying their first homes or new trucks

Guest Bio:
Ron has spent the last 30 years immersed in the automotive world, starting from the bottom at a oil change shop and working his way up through the ranks as a technician, manager, and now shop owner. By his late teens, he was already getting handed the vintage and custom jobs, and that passion never let up. From big shops to small local garages. In the larger shops, Ron always found himself in a leadership role. When he wasn’t working, he was off-road racing, building trail rigs, and wrenching on hot rods to fund his hobbies.

In 2016, Ron landed at a true hot rod shop, learned everything he could, and helped level up the business using the skills he’d honed over the years. By 2018 he was managing the shop, and in 2022 he bought it outright, continuing a 40-year legacy now known as North Speed and Restoration. Today, Ron’s building wild customs, tackling vintage restorations and showing that with the right mix of grit, gearhead passion, and hands-on hustle, you really can turn your side hustle into a full-time dream.

Guest:

• Website
• Instagram

Hosts:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Annette Bauer, Annette Bauer Creative

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

You can reach us at [email protected]

Audio Production by: Mantis Media

Send us a text

Supported by:
➡️ Red Line Synthetic Oil
➡️ Auto Metal Direct
➡️ POWERtube TV

In this episode, Barry Alt and Annette Bauer engage with Nush Ahmed, the owner of the Next Gen MFG Podcast, discussing the importance of community building among women in the trades, leveraging social media for networking, and bridging generational gaps in the automotive industry. Nush shares her experiences in finding community through platforms like Discord and emphasizes the significance of authenticity in social media engagement. The conversation also touches on the value of trade shows, mentorship, and the aspirations for creating scholarships for young women in the industry.

Key Takeaways:

• Social media can be a powerful tool for building a community.
• Engaging with others on social media is crucial for networking.
• Discord has become a valuable platform for women in trades.
• Older business owners often overlook younger generations.
• Authenticity in social media is more important than perfection.
• Trade shows offer immense opportunities for networking and learning.
• Mentorship is vital for young women entering the trades.
• Scholarships can change lives and encourage more women to pursue careers in trades.
• Building a supportive community can help everyone succeed.
• It's important to bridge the generational gap in the industry.

Guest Bio:

My name is Nushrat and I work in manufacturing. I started out in automotive tech school with a passion for motorsport. I attended NASCAR Tech while working in manufacturing and fell in love with CNC machining. I combined my love for cars and machining by working as a valve manufacturer and swiss machine set up tech. Now I work overseeing safety and quality for a wood manufacturer - which gives me time to focus on designing 3D printed parts and to record my podcast Next Gen MFG where I interview people in the trades to inspire the next generation.

 Guest:

• Email: [email protected] 
• LinkedIn
• Instagram
• Instagram Podcast
• YouTube

Hosts:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Annette Bauer, Annette Bauer Creative

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

You can reach us at [email protected]

Audio Production by: Mantis Media

Send us a text

Supported by:
➡️ Red Line Synthetic Oil
➡️ Auto Metal Direct
➡️ POWERtube TV

In this episode of Gearheads ‘n Gasoline, Barry Alt and Annette Bauer sit down with Chloe Yonker, owner of CC Customs, to discuss her journey from a management intern at a Peterbilt dealership to a successful entrepreneur in the automotive industry. Chloe shares insights on the importance of education, continuous learning, and leveraging social media to build her brand. She highlights innovative techniques in automotive customization, her experiences at SEMA, and the empowerment of women in a traditionally male-dominated field. The conversation also explores business expansion, quality control, networking, mentorship, and the delicate balance between personal life and professional growth.

Key Takeaways:
🚗 Follow Your Passion: Chloe’s journey proves it’s never too late to enter the automotive industry.
🛠️ Hands-on Learning: Practical experience and continuous education are essential for success.
📱 Social Media Power: A vital tool for branding, audience engagement, and business growth.
📋 Stay Organized: Effective strategic planning is crucial for managing multiple builds efficiently.
🤝 Networking & Mentorship: Building relationships opens doors to new opportunities.
🚀 Women Breaking Barriers: Female builders are inspiring the next generation in the industry.
🖥️ Tech Innovation: Techniques such as cardboard mock-ups and 3D printing are revolutionizing customization.
⚖️ Work-Life Balance: Managing personal and business responsibilities requires careful navigation.
💪 Support System: A strong network plays a key role in overcoming industry challenges.
🏆 Persistence Pays Off: Success comes from quality control, dedication, and staying true to your vision.

Guest Bio:
One woman-owned shop specializing in automotive customization and restyling is based in Lubbock, TX.

Guest:

• Email: [email protected] 
• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram
• X (Twitter)
• YouTube

Hosts:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Annette Bauer, Annette Bauer Creative

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

You can reach us at [email protected]

Audio Production by: Mantis Media

Send us a text

Supported by:
➡️ Red Line Synthetic Oil
➡️ Auto Metal Direct
➡️ POWERtube TV

In this episode, Kyle Kuhnhausen shares his journey from growing up in his father’s auto shop to becoming a renowned hot rod builder. He delves into the passion, creativity, and perseverance that have fueled his success, highlighting the importance of authenticity in his work. Kyle discusses his transition from collision repair to custom car building, emphasizing the value of craftsmanship, personal relationships, and maintaining a small shop to ensure quality.

Kyle also explores the evolving role of social media in the automotive industry, offering strategies for engagement, brand partnerships, and self-promotion. He reflects on career milestones, including winning the Young Guns award, and underscores the significance of brand loyalty, continuous learning, and staying humble in a competitive field. The episode ends with a lighthearted speed round, where Kyle shares inspiration and advice for aspiring builders.

Key Takeaways:
💪 Hard Work Pays Off: Dedication and persistence were ingrained from a young age
🔧 Career Shift: Moving from collision repair to hot rod building was a game-changer
🏠 Small But Mighty: Keeping his shop small ensures quality
📱 Power of Social Media: A key tool for sharing work and building connections
🤝 Brand Partnerships: Strong relationships are crucial for long-term success
📚 Lifelong Learning: Staying relevant requires continuous growth and education
🔩 Engineering Simplicity: Simple, well-executed solutions lead to success
🏁 Keys to Success: Hard work, persistence, and authenticity drive long-term achievement

Guest Bio:
Kyle Kuhnhausen, owner of Kuhnhausen Metal Concepts LLC for over a decade, specializes in precision metal fabrication and high-detail hot rod builds. His work includes multiple SEMA Battle of the Builders contenders and magazine cover features. With 22 years in the industry, a background as a journeyman autobody technician, and a BS in business entrepreneurship from Oregon State, Kyle blends traditional craftsmanship with modern tech like CAD, 3D printing, and laser cutting. He’s also skilled in social media marketing, sharing the story behind each build.

Guest:

• Email: [email protected] 
• Website 
• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube

Hosts:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Annette Bauer, Annette Bauer Creative

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

You can reach us at [email protected]

Audio Production by: Mantis Media

Send us a text

Supported by:
➡️ Red Line Synthetic Oil
➡️ AMD (Auto Metal Direct)
➡️ POWERtube TV

🚀 From Race Driver to Pilot: Capri Wesley’s Journey into Drone Videography 🎥🏁

In this episode of Gearheads ‘n Gasoline, hosts Barry Alt and Annette Bauer sit down with Capri Wesley, the powerhouse behind Adrenaline Aerial Media. Capri shares her fascinating journey from the racetrack to the world of drone videography, offering insights into the creative and business challenges she’s faced along the way.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
🚁 Aerial Evolution: How Capri transitioned from racing to capturing motorsports from above.
🎮 Drone Mastery: The steep learning curve of piloting—and why even the best pilots crash!
📢 Marketing Magic: Strategies that help drone businesses stand out in motorsports.
👩‍💼 Breaking Barriers: The challenges and rewards of being a female entrepreneur in racing and drone videography.
🤝 Power of Collaboration: How networking fuels growth in this fast-paced field.
🎥 Emotional Impact: Capturing high-speed moments that define motorsports storytelling.

Capri also dives into the realities of balancing a corporate job with a passion for videography, the importance of continuous learning, and why having fun is key to avoiding burnout. Plus, hear about her biggest drone mishaps and the lessons they taught her!

🔗 Subscribe & Follow for more behind-the-scenes stories from the automotive world. Got questions or thoughts on this episode?

Guest Bio:
As a racer, I want to capture memories of racing in a unique way. I love to put together videos highlighting a racing teams weekend at the track or to highlight an event.

Guest:

• Email: [email protected]
• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

Hosts:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Annette Bauer, Annette Bauer Creative

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

You can reach us at [email protected]

Audio Production by: Mantis Media

Send us a text

Supported by:
➡️ Red Line Synthetic Oil
➡️ AMD (Auto Metal Direct)
➡️ POWERtube TV

In this episode of Gearheads and Gasoline, Bryan Harrison shares his journey from being a passionate car enthusiast to running his restoration shop while balancing a career as a firefighter. He dives into how his family influenced his love for cars, the importance of hands-on experience, and why engaging the next generation is key to the future of the automotive industry.

Bryan, along with hosts Barry Alt and Annette Bauer, explores how social media has reshaped marketing in the industry, the growing popularity of custom builds, and the need to respect diverse automotive cultures. They also discuss the challenges of running a shop, from finding quality suppliers to building a reliable team, and the impact of strong customer relationships.

A big takeaway? Community and mentorship matter. Bryan is deeply involved in youth engagement, charity work, and industry events—all with the goal of passing down knowledge and keeping the automotive world thriving. Whether it's learning from mistakes, adapting to new technology, or simply treating customers right, this episode is packed with insights for shop owners, enthusiasts, and anyone looking to build a strong business in the automotive space.

🔗 Subscribe & Follow for more behind-the-scenes stories from the automotive world. Got questions or thoughts on this episode?

Guest Bio:
Since 2021, Bryan Harrison has been at the helm of Harrison’s Rod and Custom, specializing in C10 builds with a distinctive street rod style. With 90% of his work focused on the C10 market, he has built a reputation for craftsmanship and innovation.

Bryan is a contributor to United By Trucks on YouTube and was the builder behind the 2023 NSRA Giveaway Truck—the final vehicle in NSRA’s giveaway series. Beyond the shop, he’s passionate about giving back to the industry. He founded GM Truck Fair, an event dedicated entirely to funding the Harrison’s Rod and Custom Scholarship Fund, which helps young enthusiasts receive training in custom automotive and restoration field.
Through his builds, mentorship, and industry contributions, Bryan is committed to shaping the future of the automotive world.

Guest:

• Email:  [email protected]
• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube

Hosts:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Annette Bauer, Annette Bauer Creative

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

You can reach us at [email protected]

Audio Production by: Mantis Media

Send us a text

➡️ Sponsored by Red Line Synthetic Oil

In this episode, Barry Alt and Annette Bauer sit down with Joalda Lopez, the powerhouse behind Rebel Road Hot Rod Garage, the only female-owned classic automotive restoration shop in her state.

Joalda shares her incredible journey of launching her business during the challenges of the pandemic and how she’s built a thriving restoration shop alongside her fiancé. She opens up about her SEMA show experiences, the power of networking in the automotive industry, and the grit it takes to succeed as a female entrepreneur in a traditionally male-dominated field.

This conversation dives into:
🚗 Building and restoring classic cars – the approach, quality control, and customer vetting that set Rebel Road apart.
📣 The role of marketing and word-of-mouth – how Joalda has grown a national clientele.
🛠 Training the next generation – why hands-on education and setting professional standards for interns are crucial.
👥 Teamwork, humility, and leadership – the values that drive her business forward.
⚠️ Customer expectations & safety – what car owners should know before bringing in a restoration project.
💡 The future of Rebel Road – goals, challenges, and the evolving role of women in the industry.

And, to wrap things up, a fun speed round where Joalda shares personal insights and industry wisdom!

If you love classic cars, entrepreneurial stories, and real talk about what it takes to run a successful restoration shop, this is an episode you don’t want to miss! 🚘🔥

Guest Bio:
Joalda is the proud owner and founder of Rebel Road Hot Rod Garage, the only female-owned classic automotive restoration shop in her state. Alongside her fiancé, she built the business through resilience and determination, navigating the challenges of a global pandemic.

Her journey into entrepreneurship began long before opening the shop—becoming a mother at just 16 gave her the grit and perseverance needed to thrive in business ownership. With a deep passion for restoring classic cars, Joalda is dedicated to keeping automotive history alive, one restoration at a time. She embraces the daily challenges of the industry and takes pride in the work her team does to bring more classic cars back to the road.

Guest

• [email protected] 
• Website
• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Hosts:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Annette Bauer, Annette Bauer Creative

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

You can reach us at [email protected]

Audio Production by: Mantis Media

Send us a text

In this engaging conversation, Jesse Vaughn, owner of Level 7 Motorsports, shares his journey from a young car enthusiast to a successful entrepreneur in the automotive industry. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from a steady job to running his own business, the difficulties in finding skilled labor, and the importance of mentorship. Jesse also highlights the niche focus of his business on pro touring trucks and the significance of building strong customer relationships.

Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes the need for financial preparedness and the value of quality in both products and services. In this conversation, Jesse discusses his approach to DIY truck building, emphasizing collaboration with customers through email communication and e-commerce. He shares insights on using YouTube as an educational platform for DIY builders, the importance of becoming a thought leader in the automotive industry, and the balance between quality and quantity in business.

Key Takeaways:
- Jesse's passion for motorsports began at a young age with dirt bikes
- Financial stability is crucial before starting a business in the automotive industry
- Finding skilled labor is a significant challenge in the automotive industry
- Mentorship and guidance are essential for aspiring automotive professionals
- Quality and attention to detail are key to building a successful brand
- Building a niche market can lead to increased demand and recognition
- Customer relationships are vital for business growth and reputation
- YouTube serves as an educational tool for DIY builders
- Participation in events like the SEMA Show boosts visibility and excitement
- Transparency in communication builds trust with customers

Guest Bio:
Level 7 Motorsports is a family-owned, motorsports-inspired business that strives for perfection in all that we do. We specialize in everything from advanced wiring services and engine swaps to complex suspension and chassis systems. We have experience in stainless and aluminum TIG welding and can fabricate most anything automotive-related. We are known for our ability to build complete, purpose-built vehicles from the ground up and have extensive product knowledge to assist our customers with the latest-and-greatest cutting edge automotive technology.

We take pride in developing and manufacturing our own specialized parts and are a dealer for dozens of the best products in the industry. From the DIY, garage builder to the novice automotive enthusiast, Level 7 Motorsports is your source for ProTouring parts and insight.

Guest:

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram

Hosts:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Annette Bauer, Annette Bauer Creative

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

You can reach us at [email protected]

Audio Production by: Mantis Media

Send us a text

In this engaging conversation, Barry Alt and Annette Bauer welcome Jesse Henke from JH Restorations to discuss his journey in the automotive restoration business. They explore Jesse's early influences, the challenges of running a business, the importance of mentorship, and the need for confidence in a niche market.

The discussion also highlights the significance of youth engagement in the industry and the evolution of projects showcased at the SEMA Show. Jesse shares valuable insights on building a team, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the subjective nature of competing for top honors for their builds.

Jesse also emphasizes the importance of embracing creativity and individuality in car builds, reflecting a shift in the automotive industry towards more diverse and unique projects. He shares insights on balancing family life with business commitments.

The discussion culminates in valuable life lessons and advice for younger individuals in the industry, underscoring the importance of authenticity and doing things right the first time.

Key Takeaways:

• Confidence is key in overcoming industry challenges
• Youth engagement is vital for the future of the industry
• Building relationships with other shops enhances opportunities
• Mentorship plays a significant role in growth
• Community involvement can attract new talent
• Every project is a learning experience, regardless of the outcome
• The visibility from SEMA has significantly boosted business
• Unique builds are becoming more accepted in the automotive industry
• Mentoring youth is crucial for the future of the industry
• The younger generation brings fresh perspectives to the industry
• Doing things right the first time saves time and effort
• Engaging with social media is vital for business growth

Guest Bio:
Jesse Henke, founder of JH Restorations, has been immersed in the automotive restoration and performance industry for a lifetime. Since launching his business in 2005, Jesse has built an impressive reputation, crafting several standout SEMA vehicles, including an Olds 442, a Mustang in collaboration with Edelbrock, a 1973 LS-swapped Toyota Celica, and a 1987 Merkur RS4Ti. A dedicated member of both ARMO and SEMA, Jesse is committed to advancing the industry and inspiring the next generation of automotive professionals.

Guest:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram

Hosts:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Annette Bauer, Annette Bauer Creative

• Email: [email protected]
• Website

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

You can reach us at [email protected]

Audio Production by: Mantis Media