he Great American Race is here — and Episode 3 of The Backstretch Podcast dives headfirst into everything that makes Daytona unlike anywhere else. In Heather and Chris’ Opening Laps, they break down what truly makes Daytona special — from the history and intensity to the pressure that builds the moment Speedweeks begin. Then in Turn 5, Chase Elliott joins the show to talk about coming heartbreakingly close to winning the Daytona 500, what it’s like racing for that Harley J. Earl Trophy, and his thoughts on NASCAR’s return to the Chase format. In What Matters | What Doesn’t, the debate heats up: Does the current points format really matter to the powerhouse teams? And how much do those tough tracks to start the season actually shape the championship picture? Daytona International Speedway President Frank Kelleher stops by for a special Backstretch Discussion, offering insight into the magnitude of the 500 and what fans can expect this year. To close it out, Chris goes full crew chief mode with his pit box breakdown, detailing his keys to winning at Daytona — strategy, execution, and the moments that can change everything in seconds. History. Strategy. Heartbreak. And the biggest stage in NASCAR. Make sure to like, subscribe, and follow along all season long with The Backstretch Podcast. 🏁🎙️

Season 5 rolls on!  In Episode 2 of The Backstretch Podcast, hosts Heather Williams and Chris Carrier break down all the biggest moments from the Clash.

The Backstretch Podcast is back for Season 5!

News 5’s Heather Williams and NASCAR Crew Chief Chris Carrier kick off the new season by breaking down the cold weather—and possible snow—heading into The Clash. They also recap the offseason, discuss which drivers they’re watching closely this year, and explain the latest changes to the NASCAR points system.

Plus, the show features exclusive conversations with Erik Jones and Austin Cindric as they share their perspectives heading into the season.

It’s a packed Season 5 premiere you won’t want to miss.

Heather and Chris breakdown the Cup Championship weekend in Phoenix, including why each driver can win and why they might lose. Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. is our guest. Heather's final thought is on Denny Hamlin's father's illness and the loss of her own father.

There are two races to go in the regular season and one last chance for drivers to make the Championship Four. Heather and Chris talk about that, plus Daniel Suarez's move to Spire Motorsports and this weekend's race at Martinsville. Suarez and Erik Jones are this week's guest.

The playoff drivers have trouble in Las Vegas. Denny Hamlin writes his name in this history books. Spire Motorsports makes a change. Heather and Chris break it all down. Chase Briscoe and Chase Elliott both stop by to talk about their playoff runs.

Heather and Chris talk about the Roval race, strategy vs manipulation, 750 hp coming NASCAR and a preview of Vegas. Christopher Bell and Zane Smith are the guest. Heather's final thought is the Roval.

Heather and Chris talk about the race at Kansas, more trouble for Carson Hocevar and preview the cutoff race at the Charlotte Roval.

Austin Dillon is this week's guest,

Heather's final thought is about the state of NASCAR.

Fords open round two of the playoffs strong. Heather and Chris talk about Penske's strong start to round two of the playoffs, the teammate scuffle between Denny Hamlin and Ty Gibbs and Preview Kansas. John Hunter Nemechek stops by and Heather's final thought is on the teammate troubles.

Heather and Chris recap the action from Bristol. PRN announcer Mark Garrow stops by to swap stories and talk about his retirement announcement