The Adrenaline Zone

“Braking at 180 something, I literally saw the left front wheel twist off with the entire suspension assembly; twist off, take a bounce and go flying a hundred yards. At that point, I've got three wheels, no front brakes, and again, pretty much riding a missile. I just was able to get the car turned at about 45 degrees, and that at least kept it from being head on.”

Welcome to Bud Moeller’s thrilling world of vintage Formula One racing as he joins Sandra and Sandy to share his journey from an adventurous upbringing abroad to a career in chemical engineering and consulting, and a passion for racing and flying. Today, Bud delves into the intricacies of vintage F1 racing, discussing the challenges of maintaining these classic cars and the importance of safety and precision in high-speed competitions. His experiences highlight the camaraderie among racers, the balancing act between fearlessness and risk management, and the significant impact of his engineering knowledge on his racing performance. To top it all off, Bud's parallel passion for flying adds yet another layer of excitement to his extraordinary life, rendering this episode a must-listen for racing enthusiasts and adrenaline seekers alike.

Episode Highlights:

Key Takeaways:

"The camaraderie in our sport between us as participants is good because we want to have respect and good friendship with our competitors."

"When you're going into a corner, wheel to wheel, and the machines are very expensive, you don't want to wreck your friend’s or your own."

"Growing up overseas and having exposure to different cultures opens your world up quite a bit."

"Vintage racing involves driving cars that were interesting, exciting, and performed well back in the day."

"In vintage F1 racing, we're cornering at four G's. Modern F1 cars will touch on five."

"With vintage cars, we can't upgrade to more modern materials. We have to fabricate every suspension component."

"The mental side of racing is absolutely huge. Visualization helps you prepare and improve your performance."

"Understanding the dynamics and mechanics of the car makes you a better driver and helps in communicating with the crew."

"In Formula One, every team must design their own unique car. In IndyCar, all cars are identical."

"If you're going to let every little thing make you slow down, then you're not made for the sport."

Keep the adrenaline rush going at:

Homepage: theadrenalinezone.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theadrenalinezone/

X:  https://twitter.com/Adrenalinezonep

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theadrenalinezone

Bud Moeller: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialBudMoellerFanPage/

Stepping up to the first tee, you are enveloped by an electric yet serene atmosphere. The soft grass under your feet and the crisp sound of your golf club making contact with the ball resonate deeply, as meticulously manicured fairways stretch out before you. Surrounded by vibrant azaleas and the deep green backdrop of one of golf's greatest stages, you sense the soft whispers and excited cheers of spectators; their anticipation fuelling your drive. In this moment, at this tournament, you’re not just participating, you’re living a dream - an amateur golfer pushing your limits amidst the majesty and tradition of The Masters at Augusta National. 

Stewart Hagestad, the investment banker and outstanding amateur golfer who has been fortunate enough to live out this dream three times already in his life, joins Sandra and Sandy on the podcast this week. Together, they explore Stewart's early beginnings in golf, his experiences at Augusta National, and how he juggles a demanding career in investment banking with his passion for golf. The episode highlights the critical strategies for managing risk and maintaining mental focus which are essential in high-level amateur golf. Our talented guest also discusses the psychological benefits of golf, sharing tips on managing anxiety through mindfulness and the supportive role of relationships in pursuing excellence. As you will quickly learn, Stewart Hagestad’s insights shared here today not only shed light on the complexities of competitive golf but also drive home the discipline and passion needed to excel both on and off the green.

Episode Highlights:

Key Takeaways:

"You are given a really unique opportunity. You've earned the right to be there. Go and try to do something special."

"The Masters is beyond the experience even of many pro golfers."

"Golf is almost therapeutic. There's a gravitational force that brings you back."

"Augusta National is the pinnacle. It's everything: the music, the green jacket ceremony, Jim Nance's silky voice."

"If you drive it great at Augusta, that's really helpful. It's a second shot golf course."

"At Augusta, the ability to switch speeds and adjust to the course is crucial."

"Of anything in the world you could be doing, there's literally nothing else you'd rather be doing than that."

"Go in there and try to do something great. The golf ball doesn't know who you are. Play to win."

Keep the adrenaline rush going at:

Homepage: theadrenalinezone.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theadrenalinezone/

X:  https://twitter.com/Adrenalinezonep

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theadrenalinezone

Stewart on X: https://x.com/s_hagestad?lang=en

The thunderous growl of the engine as the car accelerates is quickly followed by the acrid scent of burning rubber with tires screeching against the pavement. The world spins into a blur as the car flips through the air, glass shattering and metal crunching in a symphony of destruction. With adrenaline pumping and every sense heightened to the extreme through each flip and turn, intricate precision and extensive training take over, as today’s guest once again turns what seems like chaos into a meticulously orchestrated performance.

This week, Sandy and Sandra are beyond excited to welcome Kathy Jarvis, a veteran stunt professional and “all around thrill seeker” with over 90 credits in films, TV shows, and commercials to the podcast to share details of her inspiring journey from a sports enthusiast in Breckenridge, CO, to a trailblazer in the stunt industry. Delving into the physical prowess and meticulous attention to detail required in this high-risk profession, Kathy goes on to highlight the evolving role of women in stunts, the increasing use of CGI, and the paramount importance of safety and mental preparedness. She also shares tales from her experiences outside the stunt world in ski racing, pro truck racing in the Baja 1000, and running a youth ski program. This woman is truly blazing trails wherever she goes - tune in today and find yourself equal parts amazed and inspired by her story!

Episode Highlights:

Key Takeaways:

"Attention to detail is one of the skills or traits that make someone well suited to be a stunt performer."

"To be a very good double, you really have to just watch your actor and become that person."

“In stunts, it’s all about making it happen on ‘action’, with the equipment and props given to you.”

"We want to ensure that we create some really beautiful action that just makes it seamless with the story."

"The CGI has always enhanced stunts so that we could use the same three blocks and make it look like different cities."

"Safety is utterly important in everything we do."

"Inner engineering yourself is crucial so that you are never the problem in your life."

"Learning to appreciate yourself and others can be more gratifying than any stunt."

Keep the adrenaline rush going at:

Homepage: theadrenalinezone.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theadrenalinezone/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Adrenalinezonep

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theadrenalinezone

Kathy’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-jarvis-66632bb/

The roar of the crowd fills your ears as the electric atmosphere of World Series Game 2 Yankee Stadium crackles all around you. Stepping up to the plate, the ever dangerous Pedro Martinez stares you down from the mound just before rocketing the ball towards you. The tension is palpable as you make the split-second decision to swing with all your might, the crack of the bat echoing through the stadium as the ball soars to right-center. Time seems to stand still as it clears the fence for a home run. Rounding the bases, heart pounding, you think to yourself, "Wow, I just hit a home run in the World Series!"

Mark Teixeira, celebrated Georgia Tech alumnus, MLB legend, and the man who actually lived that dream scenario, joins Sandy and Sandra on today's thrilling episode of The Adrenaline Zone. Teixeira unpacks his journey from a backyard wiffle ball player in Maryland to a professional powerhouse, covering his early baseball inspirations, pivotal career decisions, and rise from high school prospect to first-round draft pick. They explore his affiliation with Georgia Tech, his refusal to sign with the Red Sox, and key moments in his professional path. Listeners gain an unparalleled view into major league sports as they discuss Mark’s minor league experiences, cherished major league moments, Gold Glove Awards, and the challenges of playing different positions. Mark also shares insights on becoming a switch hitter, the impact of technology on the game, the pressures of playing for the Yankees, and offers advice for aspiring professional baseball players.

Episode Highlights:

Quotes:

"I feel like everything that happens to you in life, you either make an excuse, you make it a crutch, or you make yourself better from it."

"When you face guys in the majors, you're not just facing pitchers, you're facing experience and intelligence.”

"Develop a love for the game, because if you don't, you're not going to practice enough or play enough to build your skills. If you have the talent and passion, everything else will follow."

"If you want to learn how to hit a baseball, go outside with a little skinny yellow bat when you're three or four years old and have your dad or your friends throw you wiffle balls in the wind."

"I learned the business of baseball at 18 years old, and I learned to not take it personally.”

"From a team perspective, bar none, winning the World Series with the 2009 Yankees is my most cherished memory.”

Keep the adrenaline rush going at:

Homepage: theadrenalinezone.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theadrenalinezone/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Adrenalinezonep

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theadrenalinezone

Mark on X: https://x.com/teixeiramark25?lang=en

Strapped into the cockpit of a roaring hydroplane, racing along at 200 mph mere inches above the churning water, you feel every bump and current as you navigate tight turns and avoid competitors, all while managing an intricate ballet of high-velocity precision and raw power. This is hydroplane racing at its most elite level, a sensory overload where strategy, skill, and bravery meet the unrelenting challenge of the water's surface - and a place where today’s guest feels right at home.

Welcome to the 6th season of The Adrenaline Zone where Sandra and Sandy kick things off with Brent Hall, a remarkable hydroplane racer and cancer survivor set to make history as the first African American in the H1 Unlimited ranks. Brent shares his journey from childhood fascination to navigating high-speed hazards, offering insights into the intricate mechanics of hydroplane racing, safety advancements, and the strategic teamwork required. He also recounts some harrowing racing experiences he has survived which highlight the importance of thorough preparation and adherence to safety measures. Addressing some equally scary moments away from the water, Brent opens up about his battle with cancer and how this challenge continues to fuel his drive to break barriers and pursue his dreams. Join Sandra and Sandy as they return here today to get your adrenaline pumping once more with Brent’s inspiring conversation about overcoming challenges, building community, and finding "the zone" on and off the water.

Episode Highlights:

Quotes:

"I haven't been upside down, but I have done a barrel roll.”

"I looked down, the whole left side of the boat was gone... and that's at about 100 miles an hour."

"If the boat's bouncing back and forth…you're scrubbing off speed."

“If we were upside down for even upwards of an hour, we would be able to breathe underwater.”

“You don't just go out and say, “I'm going to go, you know, win a boat race now.” Matter of fact, if you think that way, you're kind of disrespecting how much time it takes to get to that kind of success.”

“Your heart's beating so fast, and those races don't last very long, so any tip or advantage that you can get in communicating with your team is critical.”

“When I found out that I had cancer, that was numbing…we had done all the scans and found out that I had stage four kidney cancer.”

“Harold Mills…he took it 90% of the way. I'm going to take it the extra ten, and we're going to celebrate it together. I think the world of him.”

Keep the adrenaline rush going at:

Homepage: theadrenalinezone.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theadrenalinezone/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Adrenalinezonep

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theadrenalinezone

Brent Hall Racing: https://www.brenthallracing.com/

Obliteride: https://www.obliteride.org/

“Coffee time” is over, so you polish off the rest of your beer, grab your bags of bolts, begin your climb up the column and step out to “walk the iron” 20 stories above the ground - all without a hard hat, a harness, or any means of being “tied off”. The world of high-rise ironwork has evolved considerably over the years, and today’s guest is here to provide his eyewitness account of it all.

In today’s exhilarating episode of The Adrenaline Zone, listeners are immersed in the captivating world of high-rise ironwork through the eyes of seasoned veteran, John Steinmetz. Boasting an impressive 40-year career in this daring profession, John shares details of his journey into ironworking, which is rooted in a strong family connection, and which unfolds as a thrilling tale of courage and resilience. The episode delves into a number of fascinating themes, from the challenges and risks of working at dizzying heights to the evolution of safety measures and training, the intricacies of assembling skyscrapers, and the camaraderie shared among ironworkers that resembles a second family. He also shares humorous anecdotes from his long and storied career, highlighting the importance of adaptability and problem-solving in this physically demanding field. As Season 5 of The Adrenaline Zone draws to a close here today, join Sandy, Sandra, and John to discover the awe-inspiring world of ironworking and the relentless dedication it entails. Don't miss this heart-pounding discussion that will definitely take you to new heights!

Episode Highlights:

Quotes:

"In our business, gravity is your worst enemy."

"I'll probably remember my first and my last."

"You have to be geared for it. It's not a lazy man's job."

"When it looks good on paper, it doesn't always work in real life."

"People say that artificial intelligence is going to take away a lot of jobs, but they're white-collar jobs, not your job."

"Just close your eyes and wait till the ride stops."

"Each general contractor has an outside inspection agency, a third party who comes in behind us and checks to make sure…everything is done in accordance to the specs."

"You never want the crane to stop."

“I would still do it all over again if I was given the opportunity. I made a good living at it, I've always stayed busy, and the union treated me very well.”

Keep the adrenaline rush going at:

Homepage: theadrenalinezone.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theadrenalinezone/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Adrenalinezonep

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theadrenalinezone

Your car comes to a halt at a border checkpoint, guard dogs barking, the guards themselves talking over each other, and now one of them is about to open the car’s trunk, searching for stowaways or anything even remotely suspicious. Will he discover your husband and sleeping daughter carefully hidden behind the seats? Will your painstaking plan to defect from Cold War-era Soviet Union end in unspeakable disaster?

Olga Sheymov hails from St. Petersburg, Russia, where, after pursuing an engineering degree, she joined the Central Institute for Information. Post-graduation, she found herself amidst a tense KGB situation during her involvement with a Canadian delegation at the Student Olympic Games in Russia. However, fate intervened as she crossed paths with her future husband, Victor Sheymov, a charismatic young man who played a pivotal role in their eventual escape from the Soviet Union. Since settling in the US, Olga has graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology-College of Architecture with a Bachelor of Science, Industrial and Product Design, and is currently a versatile artist, engineer, and television producer.

Today, she joins Sandy and Sandra to recount the thrilling Cold War saga of her daring escape from the Soviet Union with her husband and daughter. She delves into life behind the Iron Curtain, the relentless pursuit of the KGB, and the meticulously planned escape involving the CIA. From Olga's childhood memories in the Soviet Union to their heart-pounding escape and the challenges of adapting to American life, this story of courage and audacity provides a shining example of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Episode Highlights:

Quotes:

"The fact that we were able to get through was a miracle."

"We had to look at everything with the mindset of an investigator, and that's what he did."

"We rarely make mistakes in analysis. We usually make them in assumptions.”

"If you start allowing yourself doubts, you cannot succeed."

"We were in a crazy place because we didn't know if someone was watching us. We were constantly trying to see if...maybe this was all a set-up."

"It felt surreal after 18 hours of nonstop adrenaline. I was still in a special mode and couldn't fully process what had happened."

"Victor did an amazing job navigating us through all the obstacles in Russia. But I also believe it was help from above."

Keep the adrenaline rush going at:

Homepage: theadrenalinezone.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theadrenalinezone/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/Adrenalinezonep

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theadrenalinezone

Olga’s LinkedIn Page:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/olga-sheymov-5407203/

As the inevitable adrenaline begins to course through your body, you draw upon all your training and skill to channel it, allowing you to steady your hands and make split-second decisions. Throughout it all, you remain acutely aware that distraught parents have placed all of their hope and faith in you and your team to save the life of their precious child who lays on the operating table before you. Welcome to the rollercoaster world of heart-pounding risks and heartwarming victories that define the life of a pediatric surgeon.

Dr. Mary Brandt is not only a renowned pediatric surgeon but also a dedicated educator and recipient of numerous awards and honors for service, education, and humanism in medicine. She completed medical school and general surgery residency at Baylor, followed by a fellowship in pediatric surgery at the University of Montreal Sainte-Justine Hospital. Dr. Brandt returned to join the faculty at Baylor College of Medicine where she has a distinguished record of accomplishment, including service as Senior Associate Dean of Student Affairs, Senior Associate Dean of Medical Education, and Program Director for General Surgery. Dr. Brandt has also served as Professor of Surgery with Tulane University School of Medicine, and has an outstanding record of service to the American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Surgeons, American Board of Surgery, American Pediatric Surgery Association, and the American Association of Medical Colleges.

Today, Dr. Brandt discusses pediatric surgery, risk management, and medical training with Sandra and Sandy. Together, they explore emotional involvement in patient care, surgical preparation, and adrenaline challenges, and go on to draw parallels between astronauts and fighter pilots that reveal insights into adrenaline management and competency-driven training. Healthcare shifts, women in surgery, and Dr. Brandt's advice for aspiring medical professionals are included as well in today’s thought provoking and thoroughly entertaining conversation.

Episode Highlights:

Quotes:

"When you're learning how to make a skin incision, that adrenaline is there."

"We're kind of the last general surgeons."

"You have to lower your shoulders and take three deep breaths and watch what happens."

"It's still an incredible profession."

"There is not another human being or any policy that can take away my ability to sit in a room with another human being and talk about what I need to do to help heal them."

Keep the adrenaline rush going at:

Homepage: theadrenalinezone.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theadrenalinezone/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/Adrenalinezonep

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theadrenalinezone

Imagine yourself soaring through the air - sometimes just a couple hundred feet above the ground - at hundreds of miles an hour, performing such maneuvers as spins, loops, rolls, as well as the somewhat ominously titled ‘Hammerhead’, all while being subjected to up to 10 g’s of force and knowing full well that one misstep could very possibly lead to hitting the ground! Welcome to just another day at the office for today’s exceptional guest.

Born and raised in California, Vicky Benzing is an accomplished pilot, skydiver, aerobatic performer and air racer. With over 9500 hours of flight time and over 1300 parachute jumps, Vicky’s flying career has spanned nearly 40 years, and she currently holds an airline transport rating as well as a commercial rating in helicopters, seaplanes, and gliders. Fascinated by flight since childhood, Vicky was eventually fortunate enough to receive training from the legendary pilot, Amelia Reid. After earning her PhD. in Chemistry from UC Berkeley, and working in the Silicon Valley high tech industry, Vicky returned to her lifelong passion full time where she now holds a surface level aerobatic waiver, and has flown in hundreds of air shows across the country. She was voted “Rookie of the Year” in her first year of air racing, and currently holds the crown of the “Fastest Woman Ever” in the history of the Reno Air Races. In addition to all of these spectacular achievements, Vicky has also worked on a number of film, television, and media projects.

Today, Sandy and Sandra sit down with Vicky to explore her inspiring journey from her early fascination with aviation to her remarkable career including her many, many achievements along the way as well as her unique perspective as a truly extraordinary woman in aviation.

Episode Highlights:

Quotes:

"You can have it all. Absolutely. You don't have to make those choices… you can have it all."

"My uncle took me flying when I was a little kid, and I remember it distinctly."

"The moment I stepped into the airplane and took the controls, I knew that was something I would do for the rest of my life."

"But at an air show, they pay you to come, they pay for your hotel and car. The crowd tells you how much they love you."

"You need a lot of g-forces to make the maneuvers look crisp."

"It's an amazing time to be a pilot, especially for young people entering the industry."

Keep the adrenaline rush going at:

Homepage: theadrenalinezone.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theadrenalinezone/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Adrenalinezonep

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theadrenalinezone

Vicky’s Homepage: https://www.vickybenzing.com/

In today’s very special rereleased episode, Sandy and Sandra are joined by the one and only Santa Claus to discuss his annual toy delivery and the risks associated with it. Santa explains the logistics of North Pole operations and the challenges they have faced due to labor shortages and supply chain issues. While so many details of Santa’s operation are understandably considered classified, he is able to shed some light on the incredible work he, Mrs.Claus, and the elves perform each year, while also stressing the importance of maintaining PPI to protect children’s personal data.

The Finer Details of this Episode:

Quotes:

"We have to come up with about 2 billion toys a year, maybe a little bit fewer because of the little naughty ones, but that's not such a big number."

"I mean, ever since the ‘great elf resignation’, it's been tougher than blazes to get elves." 

"If we were down there, we'd be up to our butts in elves, but we can't do that because the FAA won't let us fly over the 48 states. You know, they won't give us the permission. And then there's the whole labor thing.”

“We are a risk manager's nightmare here. I'll tell you; we have a risk oversight committee, and we've got representatives from all the various health departments, and, you know, we’ve got air traffic control risks, we have risks of all those little reindeer hooves damaging roof tiles-- oh, the insurance company is all over us for that - we're working through that. We've got technology risks, you know, the sleigh is a very sophisticated piece of equipment.”

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