Best In Wheel Time Podcast | Automotive talk with Don Armstrong Podcasts (2025)

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Inside Trader Interactive: How real-time registrations and marketplace behavior reshape dealer strategy 30:54

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13h ago30:54

30:54

Shoppers are researching harder and buying faster, and the old guesswork about what to stock is getting expensive. We sit down with Shannon Pinto, VP of Statistical Surveys at Trader Interactive, to pull back the curtain on how real DMV registrations and real-time marketplace behavior from RV Trader, Cycle Trader, and Boatline turn into a clear pic…

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From Hybrid Skepticism to Sports-Car Smiles: Prius, GR86, and the EV Crossroads 30:41

1d ago30:41

30:41

A sleeker Prius that’s actually fun, EV incentives vanishing, and a sports car that resets your grin—this one brings the big swings and the small joys. We kick off by tearing down the old hybrid myth and putting the latest Toyota Prius through a real-world lens: punchy off-the-line torque, thoughtful ergonomics, and the kind of efficiency that make…

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Inside the Garage: Recalls, Racing, and the Hidden Cost of “Cheap” Car Parts 29:35

5d ago29:35

29:35

A bargain part that looks perfect, installs easily, and quietly destroys your engine months later—that’s the nightmare more drivers are waking up to. We dig into the growing wave of counterfeit auto parts sold online, from fake water pumps that toast head gaskets to sensors that never program and starters that die long before their time. As shop po…

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Hot rods, hot dogs, and alumni who don’t need training wheels 30:36

5d ago30:36

30:36

A shuttered high school, a two-story library, and a parking lot full of chrome—this is how a community keeps its story alive. We welcome Spring Branch Senior High School Alumni Foundation president Frank Klam to share the unlikely journey from a closed campus in 1985 to a living museum that safeguards trophies, uniforms, and hard-won memories the d…

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How beer fests, badge hype, and a sleeper sedan reveal what performance really means 15:33

6d ago15:33

15:33

Fall energy meets turbo torque as we jump from steins to stopwatches, mapping the most spirited Oktoberfests in the U.S. before tearing into “muscle cars” that talked big and drove small—then we strap into the 2025 Hyundai Sonata N Line to see what real-world performance feels like today. We start with pure festival joy: Denver turns six downtown b…

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Inside the Texas Muscle Car Club Challenge: Grassroots Racing, Real Community, Safer Than the Streets 31:15

7d ago31:15

31:15

By In Wheel Time Podcast | Automotive talk with Don Armstrong, Michael Marrs, and Jeff Dziekan

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From Nervous Driver to Hill Country Hero: A 21-Year-Old’s First Bronco Off-Road School 30:25

8d ago30:25

30:25

Ever felt your stomach drop at the top of a blind hill? We handed the wheel to Olivia, a 21-year-old nursing student and brand-new Bronco owner, and watched a long day in the Texas Hill Country turn nerves into mastery. With guidance from veteran auto journalist Sue Mead, Olivia moves from classroom theory to real trail work—learning why GOAT Modes…

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The Aspire Saga: Car Culture, Comedy, and Industry News 29:44

11d ago29:44

29:44

Buckle up for a high-octane exploration of automotive industry trends and challenges that are reshaping the market landscape. We dive deep into the alarming rise of "credit bust out" scams targeting dealerships, where criminals orchestrate the purchase of multiple vehicles through falsified loan applications before credit reports can catch up. One …

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AI Estimates and Finding Reputable Body Shops 30:19

12d ago30:19

30:19

Navigating the murky waters of auto body repairs just got easier thanks to an innovative approach that puts transparency and consumer choice at the forefront. Ilan Mandil, founder of OttoFixIt, joins us to unveil how AI technology is revolutionizing the way drivers approach collision repair estimates. By simply snapping photos of vehicle damage, co…

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Fair Food, the MX-5 is 35, and Familiar Faces Under Different Names 16:58

13d ago16:58

16:58

Step right up to a fascinating exploration of the Texas State Fair's hidden gems! Beyond the legendary fried foods lies a world of unexpected attractions waiting to be discovered. Did you know you could view world-famous butter sculptures in the Creative Arts building? Or that a 212-foot Texas Fair Swell offers breathtaking panoramic views of Dalla…

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Car Talk & Classic Values 29:50

14d ago29:50

29:50

The century-long story of how we value cars has dramatically shifted from dog-eared pages to digital databases. Before the internet, car dealers, buyers, and even divorce courts relied on physical booklets like Kelly Blue Book and NADA guides to determine fair market prices. These guides weren't just reference materials—they were essential tools th…

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Exploring Car Paint: The Art and Journey with Randy Borchiding 32:02

16d ago32:02

32:02

Randy Borchiding's colorful journey from model car enthusiast to custom paint specialist unfolds with charm and practical wisdom. What started with Testors spray cans and a childhood model contest victory evolved into a full-fledged career creating custom colors for show-stopping vehicles. Randy pulls back the curtain on his early days, revealing h…

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Dirt, Gravel, and Glory: The Alcan 5000 Rally Adventure 30:10

18d ago30:10

30:10

Mercedes and Andy Lilienthal take us on an exhilarating journey through North America's longest road rally - the Alcan 5000. Covering a staggering 5,500 miles from Seattle to Alaska, this husband-wife team pushed their 2026 Honda Passport Trail Sport to its limits across punishing terrain and secured an impressive second-place overall finish. The c…

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Navigating Tariff Turmoil and the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Review 29:28

19d ago29:28

29:28

Buckle up for a deep dive into the automotive industry's latest battle with tariffs that could reshape how we buy and maintain our vehicles. Automakers and suppliers have formally urged the Trump administration to reconsider unpredictable tariff expansions, warning that these policies make investing in America increasingly difficult. The financial …

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Leaf Peepers and Wine Sippers: Safety Helmets: '25 Grand Highlander 15:28

20d ago15:28

15:28

Autumn reveals a side of Texas many travelers never experience. While summer heat dominates conversations about the Lone Star State, fall transforms Texas into a wonderland of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Our journey begins in East Texas, where maples explode with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows that rival New En…

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Speed, Dirt, and Rivalries: Inside American Racing Culture 30:53

21d ago30:53

30:53

The battle between dirt and asphalt tracks, the delicate ecosystem of regional racing, and the high-stakes fall racing season take center stage in this revealing conversation with motorsports commentator Rodney Rodriguez. As Texas transitions into fall, circle track racing enters its most exciting phase with championship battles heating up and big …

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Highway to Cybersecurity: Safeguarding Cars in the Digital Age 31:08

22d ago31:08

31:08

The digital threat landscape for the automotive industry has never been more dangerous. Legendary FBI operative and cybersecurity expert Eric O'Neill joins us to reveal how cyber attackers are targeting major manufacturers with devastating results. Right now, Jaguar Land Rover's production sits paralyzed by a ransomware attack that's already lasted…

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The HEMI Hideout: John Hovis Shares His Collecting Journey 30:57

25d ago30:57

30:57

Step into the extraordinary world of the Hemi Hideout as we chat with owner John Hovis about his remarkable journey from car enthusiast to curator of one of the most impressive automotive sanctuaries in Texas. Surrounded by vintage neon signs and classic cars, John reveals how what began as a personal "man cave" evolved into a destination venue tha…

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The Lemon Lawyer on Navigating Lemon Laws 29:10

26d ago29:10

29:10

Ever wondered what happens when your brand-new dream car turns into a mechanical nightmare? Hovanes Margarian, known as "The Lemon Lawyer," pulls back the curtain on the fascinating world of automotive consumer protection law in this eye-opening conversation. From his unique garage-turned-law-office where client vehicles undergo inspection alongsid…

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Space Tech Hits the Road, Route 66 through Texas and the Lexus LX600 15:50

27d ago15:50

15:50

Ever wondered why your car's technology feels so advanced? The answer might be orbiting above your head. We dive into the fascinating world where NASA innovations have transformed everyday driving experiences, from the anti-lock brakes that keep you safe to the head-up display projecting vital information onto your windshield. These aerospace techn…

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Car Dealership Discrimination Scandal, Recalls and Market Shifts 33:04

28d ago33:04

33:04

The automotive world still has a discrimination problem, and this episode dives deep into a shocking case that cost two Missouri dealerships $275,000 in settlement fees. When Landmark Dodge Ram and Landmark Chrysler Jeep were caught refusing to hire women for sales positions and men for office roles, the EEOC stepped in with a lawsuit that revealed…

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The Future of Cars: Student-Run Auto Shows and Luxury SUVs 29:02

29d ago29:02

29:02

From $150 million in exotic cars managed by college students to the plush comfort of a six-figure luxury SUV, this episode of In Wheel Time takes you on a journey through the fascinating intersections of automotive education and innovation. Katrina Ness, the 62nd general chair of the Northwood University International Auto Show, joins us to discuss…

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Behind the Scenes at Savoy Car Museum's Connection Show 30:06

1M ago30:06

30:06

The Savoy Car Museum's annual Connection Car Show has evolved into a spectacular gathering of automotive enthusiasts, exceeding all expectations in its third year. Located in Cartersville, Georgia, between Atlanta and Chattanooga, this expanding event showcases the passion and diversity of car culture across the Southeast. Mary Argusza takes us beh…

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When Grandpa Should Park It... 30:57

1M ago30:57

30:57

Deciding when an elderly parent should stop driving ranks among family life's most challenging conversations. Now, General Motors is developing technology to transform this emotional decision into a data-driven process. Their innovative "driver retirement score" system monitors everything from reaction times to proper use of turn signals, even trac…

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Regrettable Rides, Texas Trains, and the new Palisade 14:56

1M ago14:56

14:56

Climb aboard as we journey through Texas heritage railways and drive some of the most disappointing dream cars ever made. This episode starts with a nostalgic look at Texas' historic train routes transformed into tourist attractions. From the inmate-built Texas State Railroad to the Grapevine Vintage Railroad's themed excursions (including beer tra…

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Teen Driving Dangers: What Parents Need to Know 29:59

1M ago29:59

29:59

The financial shock of adding a teenage driver to your insurance policy can feel like a sucker punch to your wallet. In Texas, parents face an average premium increase of 114% – the fourth highest in the nation according to WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo, our special guest this week. While Texas ranks middle-of-the-pack (28th) for teen driver fataliti…

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Road Safety Spotlight: School Buses, Pedestrians, and Dream Cars 22:25

1M ago22:25

22:25

Road safety takes center stage in this eye-opening episode where we tackle the often misunderstood rules of school bus safety. When those yellow lights start flashing, too many drivers make potentially deadly mistakes. We break down exactly what you need to do when approaching a school bus on various road types and why following these rules is abso…

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Rusty Gold: How One Woman Revolutionized Car Auctions 31:23

1M ago31:23

31:23

Labor Day Replay: A divine prophecy, a kitchen cupboard full of auction school applications, and a career-defining first sale scheduled right after 9/11 – these unlikely elements converged to launch Yvette Vanderbrink into the world of automotive auctioneering, where she's spent 25 years specializing in barn finds and collector vehicles that others…

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Holy Hemis! A Tour of Automotive Treasures 30:27

1M ago30:27

30:27

Labor Day Replay: Step inside the legendary Hemi Hideout, where automotive dreams come to life in spectacular fashion. Once housed in a simple barn, John Hovas's remarkable Mopar collection now resides in this purpose-built sanctuary that celebrates American muscle in its most glorious forms. The collection tells a story that began when John was ju…

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2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9: Luxury Meets Electric in a Full-Size Package 4:41

1M ago4:41

4:41

Luxury electric vehicles have reached a new milestone with the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9, a groundbreaking full-size three-row SUV that combines spaciousness, cutting-edge design, and impressive electric performance. Fresh off the assembly line in Ellabelle, Georgia, this American-made Korean masterpiece showcases what happens when minimalist aesthetics…

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Behind the Wheel with IHRA Division Director Doug Foley 29:52

1M ago29:52

29:52

Labor Day Replay: Drag racing fans rejoice! The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) is roaring back onto the scene with a full revival that includes the return of Top Fuel racing after a 15-year absence. Division Director Doug Foley joins us to share the exciting developments happening within one of drag racing's most storied organizations. Fo…

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Courtney Enders: NHRA TV's Newest Star 28:38

1M ago28:38

28:38

LABOR DAY REPLAY: Courtney Enders brings her infectious enthusiasm and deep drag racing knowledge to this episode as she discusses her exciting new role with NHRA TV. As the sister of six-time Pro Stock champion Erica Enders, Courtney offers a unique insider perspective on the sport while carving her own path in racing media. Speaking from her temp…

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Automotive Evolution: From Digital Keys to Haunted Evacuation Spots 29:52

2M ago29:52

29:52

Digital car keys are changing how we access and interact with our vehicles forever. While fobs and physical keys have been the standard for decades, smartphone-based digital keys are gaining incredible momentum—set to quadruple from 15 million to 59 million vehicles by 2031. This transformation extends far beyond just unlocking doors. The technolog…

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Automotive Auction Insights: A Look at Klairmont's Collection 30:21

2M ago30:21

30:21

Automotive passion takes center stage as we welcome Matt Avery, co-host of Mecum in the Morning and veteran automotive journalist with nearly two decades of industry experience. Matt shares his fascinating journey from luxury car technician to content creator, explaining how his mechanical background and storytelling skills perfectly positioned him…

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Escaping Hurricane Season: What Your Car Color Says About You: GR Carolla Review 13:54

2M ago13:54

13:54

Tired of the same old hurricane evacuation routine? We've compiled a guide to turning your necessary departure into a memorable Texas adventure. Instead of crowding into chain hotels with your family and pets, consider charming destinations like Luckenbach and Fredericksburg with their creek-side cabins, dance halls, wineries, and boutiques. Or ven…

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From Model Cars to Custom Classics: The Art of Randy Borcheding 31:35

2M ago31:35

31:35

Randy Borcheding of PaintHouse offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of high-end custom car creation, where artistry meets engineering in spectacular fashion. His latest masterpiece – a 1970 Mercury Cougar convertible finished in a custom "Short Bus Pearl" yellow – recently claimed Best Custom at the Craig Bierman show and is headed to the pr…

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Durango Diaries: Road Tripping with 710 Horsepower 30:11

2M ago30:11

30:11

Jack Nerad takes us on a thrilling ride through America's heartland in a monstrous 710-horsepower Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat. This wasn't just any road trip – it was the "Made in America Tour" meticulously planned by Jack's wife, combining their love of baseball with an exploration of America's cultural landmarks. From Chicago to Milwaukee, through …

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Recalls, Robots, and Ridiculous Concepts: This Week in Cars 31:10

2M ago31:10

31:10

Have car manufacturers been building vehicles the same way for too long? Ford's CEO Jim Farley thinks so, announcing a staggering $6 billion investment in what they're calling the "Universal EV Production System." This revolutionary approach abandons the traditional assembly line in favor of an "assembly tree" using three sub-assemblies with large …

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Ghost Towns and Hot Rods 30:06

2M ago30:06

30:06

Ever lost a key fob and faced sticker shock at the replacement cost? Our opening segment breaks down what you might pay—from $50 for basic aftermarket options to a whopping $600 for luxury proximity fobs. It's a practical reminder to keep those small but essential accessories safe. The heart of our episode features Rob Burley sharing details about …

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Beyond the Beaten Path: Car Culture, Getaway Destinations and the Alpha Romeo Tonale 16:48

2M ago16:48

16:48

Ready to hit the road for Labor Day weekend? We've got you covered with unforgettable Texas destinations that promise adventure, relaxation, and everything in between. From the Victorian charm of Jefferson in the piney woods to the artistic desert oasis of Marfa, we're exploring getaways that take you off the beaten path. Looking for coastal vibes?…

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Concrete Trucks and Corvettes: The Surprisingly Accessible World of Amateur Racing 31:58

2M ago31:58

31:58

Ever wondered if you could experience the thrill of competitive motorsports without breaking the bank or risking damage to your beloved vehicle? This episode pulls back the curtain on one of the automotive world's best-kept secrets – the incredibly accessible world of amateur racing through the Sports Car Club of America. Blair Deffenbaugh, SCCA sp…

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Restoring a Roadrunner: A Father's Legacy 29:00

2M ago29:00

29:00

A 1968 Plymouth Roadrunner sits dormant in the corner of Apex Auto Works, carrying with it the weight of memory and loss. For Richard Tomlin, this muscle car isn't just a project—it's a living connection to his father, who died in the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing. After years of seeing it gather dust, Richard has finally found the perfect reason to b…

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Garbage Cans and Corvettes: Our Hilarious Take on Classic Car Pricing 8:59

2M ago8:59

8:59

Fancy yourself a classic car pricing expert? Our latest episode puts that knowledge to the test as we dive into the fascinating world of Hemmings auction results, where perception and reality often collide in surprising ways. The conversation kicks off with a beautifully maintained 1956 Ford Victoria sporting fender skirts and what our hosts playfu…

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Lakeside Escapes in Texas 4:17

2M ago4:17

4:17

Tired of crowded beaches and saltwater? We're diving into six incredible lake destinations across Texas that offer everything from secluded cabin getaways to luxury resort experiences for your next family vacation. Our journey begins in the serene pine forests of East Texas at Deer Lake Cabins Ranch Resort, where lakefront cabins provide the perfec…

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Boxer Engine Meets Battery: Subaru's Boxy Beauty 8:11

2M ago8:11

8:11

Discover why the 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid might be the perfect balance of city practicality and outdoor adventure capability. This week, we dive deep into Subaru's newest hybrid offering, exploring how it stands out in an increasingly crowded crossover market. The Forester has long been a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, but this new hybrid v…

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Why These 5 Vintage Trucks Deserve a Second Chance on the Road 6:15

2M ago6:15

6:15

Dust off those wrenches and prepare for a nostalgic journey through American automotive history! We're diving deep into the world of truck restoration with our carefully curated list of five classic pickups that deserve a second chance at life. The humble truck has evolved from pure utility vehicle to sought-after collector's item, with certain mod…

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Pioneering Wheels: From Bertha Benz to James Bond's Submarine Car 5:00

2M ago5:00

5:00

Buckle up for a thrilling ride through automotive history's most fascinating turning points! From daring pioneers to corporate chess moves, our latest episode uncovers the moments that revolutionized how we move through the world. We kick things off with the remarkable story of Bertha Benz, who in 1888 essentially "borrowed" her husband's invention…

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Death and Dagmars: The Alarming Truth About US Highway Safety 29:59

2M ago29:59

29:59

The alarming disparity between US and Canadian traffic fatality rates takes center stage in our latest podcast. While road deaths have surged 33% in America over a decade, our northern neighbors have managed to reduce theirs – but why? We dive deep into the fascinating research from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety that reveals how differ…

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Driving Into Tomorrow: Education, Careers, and Car Culture 31:02

2M ago31:02

31:02

The automotive industry is undergoing a profound transformation that's reshaping how we think about careers in vehicle repair and maintenance. Gone are the days when becoming a mechanic simply meant learning from your dad in the garage. Today's automotive technicians need sophisticated computer skills alongside traditional mechanical aptitude. Hugh…

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Off-beat San Antonio, Kia Niro, and Car Grill'n with Jeff! 15:22

2M ago15:22

15:22

Ever wondered what treasures hide beyond San Antonio's famous Alamo? Our latest automotive adventure uncovers the city's best-kept secrets that most tourists miss entirely. Imagine 15 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerging at dusk in a spectacle so massive it appears on weather radar and can be seen from space. This natural wonder at Bracken Cav…