Over the past three years, Hemmings has delved deeply into video and live events. This journey began in 2021 with a comprehensive revamp of their main YouTube channel (@hemmingsmotornews) and was followed by the revival of the Musclepalooza live event series. To say things are going swimmingly would not be an overstatement. In this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, host Mike Musto chats with Hemmings Creative Director Dan Stoner. They discuss Hemmings' latest and upcoming video produc...
Jul 30, 2024•34 min
Frequent Hot Rod BBQ guest Ryan Douthit of Driving Sports TV has recently made a significant purchase: the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser First Edition, one of today's most coveted SUVs. This latest Land Cruiser marks a complete overhaul after decades of incremental updates. Interestingly, it now positions itself as a direct contender against the upcoming 2025 Toyota 4Runner, sparking curiosity among enthusiasts. Given Ryan's extensive familiarity with both vehicles and his recent feature of the new L...
Jul 16, 2024•36 min
Navigating the diverse landscape of pickup trucks can be quite overwhelming. From the various cab configurations to the array of drive options, the choices seem endless. Add to that the distinctions between compact, mid-size, full-size, light-duty, heavy-duty, and medium-duty trucks, with each offering a range of engine options and construction styles, and the decision becomes even more complex. With prices spanning from the low $20k to well over $100k, selecting the ideal pickup can feel like a...
Jun 18, 2024•43 min
The ultimate beater car is one you don't fret over. It's the city street parker, the lot dweller, and the one that liberates you from the worries of daily driving. Whether it's a salt-scarred winter warrior, a pre-dinged deterrent to thieves, or a worn-out farmhand, the beater is a highly underrated motoring gem that many enthusiasts relish. On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast host Mike Musto welcomes longtime friend, industry consultant, and one of his closest automotive confida...
Jun 04, 2024•53 min
Let's break down some eye-opening figures for 2024. According to Fortune.com, the average price of a new car stands at $47,338.00. Pair that with the average new car payment of $738.00 or the slightly lower average new car lease payment of $606.00, as reported by LendingTree.com. Meanwhile, the average payment on a used vehicle comes in at $538.00. These numbers hit hard because they underscore the financial strain many Americans face. To afford these payments, you'd ideally be earning around $6...
May 07, 2024•28 min
Dan Stoner, Hemmings Creative Director, is no stranger to project cars. From his Stoner-T with its blown HEMI, to a killer little T-bucket, a flat bottom drag boat, and of all things, an Edsel, some would say that Mr. Stoner is indeed, and automotive masochist. Case in point, a 1952 Henry J that once belonged to his dad, and that Dan has now taken under his wing for a restoration and rebirth if you will - but here’s the thing, the car hasn’t been on the road since 1967. Originally purchased by h...
Apr 30, 2024•39 min
On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast, host Mike Musto and Ryan Douthit of Driving Sports TV are diving into the highly anticipated 2025 Toyota 4Runner, and more importantly, what sets it apart from the outgoing generation. They then delve into the world of limited and or special edition automobiles and uncover if they’re worth it to buy and own. It's then onto Hemmings' latest automotive extravaganza: Musclepalooza! The inaugural event at Maple Grove Raceway in Mohnton, PA this pa...
Apr 16, 2024•40 min
Over the last two decades, the idea of what a pro-touring or resto-mod car is has been drastically redefined. In the beginning we were treated to mild suspension and drivetrain modifications, but now, with advancements in technology and manufacturing, these cars have been sent to heights that have redefined what’s possible. Wisconsin based Speedkore is one such coach builder that is taking the idea of what a custom car can be and flipping it on its head and their latest creation, a 1970 Dodge Ch...
Apr 09, 2024•46 min
In the vast world of motorsports, enthusiasts have an abundance of disciplines to choose from. Whether it's the rush of circle track racing, the finesse of drifting, the precision of road course events, or the rugged excitement of off-roading, there's something for every speed enthusiast. Yet, among these options, drag racing stands out for its remarkable accessibility to both participants and fans. On the latest episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, host Mike Musto talks with Bill Bader,...
Apr 02, 2024•57 min
There’s no question that today’s SUVs and crossovers are far more advanced than their predecessors from just a decade ago. From their complex suspension and off-road systems to their different drive modes and transmissions, to their now, hybrid, electric and turbocharged powertrains, these everyday family haulers are more intricate than ever. But is all this technology necessary and even wanted by the consumer, and ultimately, does it make these machines better? Oh, and don’t even get us started...
Mar 26, 2024•48 min
Explore the world of high-end automotive auctions or car shows, and you're likely to encounter a selection of custom and coach-built vehicles. When executed with precision, these automobiles are mechanical masterpieces fetching staggering sums both at their initial purchase, and when sold on the used market. Yet, what distinguishes them from the finest garage-built customs? And more importantly, does the extensive craftsmanship and investment translate into a significantly enhanced driving exper...
Mar 19, 2024•44 min
Last week Dodge took the wraps off the brand new and beautifully designed 2024 Dodge Charger and to say the automotive populous went nuts would be an understatement. First, there’s a lot to digest here as the new Charger will be offered in both two and four door variants and with a choice of either EV or ICE powerplants (ICE comes in 2025). But more so, the enthusiast crowd seems to be torn for one simple fact – it doesn’t come with a HEMI. Now if you’ve been following automotive news, you’ll kn...
Mar 12, 2024•49 min
Hemmings Creative Director, Dan Stoner is a bona fide hot-rodder if there ever was one. From his insane HEMI powered Stoner-T to his direct-drive drag boat, to the fact that the man tools around the city of San Francisco in a 1974 Ford F250 with a gallons-to-the-mile 460 big block under the hood. Dan is the guy we turn to when it comes to traditional hot rods and hot rod culture. That’s why when one of the most famous hot rods in history recently made an appearance at the 2024 Grand National Roa...
Mar 05, 2024•40 min
Earlier this year host Mike Musto made a post about how he wanted to put 10,000-miles on his 1968 Charger in 2024. There were comments and questions, but not so much about the miles, but more so about the engine and drivetrain combination. The specs on the engine are mild. A 440 cubic inch big block with iron 906 heads that were bored .30 over, a 470 lift cam, with an 800 double-pumper on top. The transmission is a 727 with a reverse valve body mated to a gear vendor through an 8 3/4 rear with a...
Feb 20, 2024•37 min
Aside from being a gem a human being, Hemmings Creative Director, Dan Stoner is also a bit of archeologist when it comes to uncovering some of the greatest automotive stories never told. In the upcoming second season Hemmings YouTube series, the Motor Underground, hosted by Mr. Stoner himself, Dan dives into the hidden hot rod culture that flourished in San Francisco’s China Town during the 1950, 60’s and into the 1970’s. These are the stories you’ve never heard; told in a way you’ve never expec...
Feb 13, 2024•45 min
On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast, it’s time to talk about wheeling in the winter so you can be prepared for all things related to safe and enjoyable winter driving! Today, host Mike Musto sits down with Ryan Douthit from Driving Sports TV, and dives into essential precautions and tips to navigate the challenges of winter roads. As the temperatures drop and snow blankets the streets, it's crucial to arm yourself with knowledge on how to stay safe behind the wheel. Whether you'r...
Feb 06, 2024•30 min
In this edition of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast, host Mike Musto is joined by industry veteran Vinny Russo to explore the future of the automotive industry in 2024. The conversation delves into the repercussions of a major global OEM's decision to withdraw from auto shows for the upcoming year. The discussion extends to the significance of traditional auto shows in the automotive community and examines whether social media has rendered them obsolete. Additionally, the episode covers the deal...
Jan 23, 2024•36 min
Engaging in automotive media is an exhilarating adventure, made even more thrilling when shared among friends. Collaborating with fellow enthusiasts who share your vehicular passion elevates the excitement of exploring the industry's stories, and diverse vehicles. Cultivating professional relationships within this circle brings a distinct synergy, blending work and passion seamlessly. Today's Hot Rod BBQ Podcast features special guests—wheel designer Ron Baugh and car builder Suppy Wejpanich. We...
Jan 09, 2024•36 min
Welcome to the final episode of the 2023 Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast! This time, it's a crew show featuring Ryan Douthit from Driving Sports TV (also the show's producer) and myself, Mike Musto. We're recapping 2023, peeking into 2024, and beyond, making predictions about trends—what stays and what goes. We then delve into the perceived decline of the American muscle car due to the rise of electrification, explore Tesla’s new Cyber Truck, and compare today's vehicle lifespans with those from a ...
Dec 26, 2023•37 min
Mention the Ring Brothers to any enthusiast that cherishes and adores modified, and coach build muscle cars, and odds are the reactions you’ll get will be quite good. For almost two decades brothers Mike and Jim Ring have redefined what muscle cars could be in ways few could have imagined. They’re first build happened in 2005. It was a 1967 Ford Mustang known as REACTOR and when the public got wind of it, they knew then and there, that the Ring Brothers where here to stay. Since then, the brothe...
Dec 12, 2023•40 min
Why aren't young people as into cars as they once were? Is it the rise of ride-share services, the shift in priorities towards sustainability, or the favoring of eco-friendly transportation. Or perhaps the allure of technology and gadgets has surpassed the appeal of traditional car culture. Then there’s the cost of ownership that stretches from purchasing and maintenance, to of course, insurance. Whatever the reason, there seems to be a movement away from the once iconic symbol of freedom and in...
Nov 28, 2023•37 min
There are few people in this industry more enthusiastic about their job than artist and Senior Design Manager at Stellantis, Dan Zimmermann. For many of us, our love of the automotive hobby came from family, and for Dan it was no different. Now of course, growing up in his grandfather’s body shop didn’t hurt, but it was more the guidance of both his father and grandfather that really left an impression. From there it was art school and befriending those like-minded in the way of design, until ul...
Nov 21, 2023•58 min
With the 2023 SEMA show finally in the rear-view mirror, host Mike Musto and Hemmings own Terry McGean sit down to reflect on some of their favorite rides, current trends, and how this year’s 2023 SEMA show felt with the absence of the big OEMs. They also talk about how the show has changed in the last 20-years, what the future holds for big trade shows like SEMA and PRI (Performance Racing Industry) and pontificate on if the show had the same impact as it did in years past! They then touch on H...
Nov 14, 2023•40 min
When it comes to the car hobby, host Mike Musto has one goal. Own and experience as many vehicles as you can before you die. It’s a lofty one we know, but on the surface it kind of makes sense if you do it correctly. If you’re of this mindset, then are a few rules you need to follow. First, be financially responsible. Don’t go into hock for something you can’t afford, regardless of how bad you want it. Second, when you find a vehicle you want, try, and take emotion out of it (this one is tough)....
Nov 07, 2023•32 min
We all have our stories about how we got into the car hobby. For some of us it was through friends, others through family, and others still, it was simply forcing their way in because they simply loved the idea of it. Courtney Leonard grew up in the San Francisco Bay area surrounded by everything from flat bottom drag boats and 60’s muscle cars to traditional open-bay hot rods. Her Father is a lifelong hot-rodder, and for as long as she can remember, she was tied to his hip whenever his aquatic ...
Oct 24, 2023•30 min
There are a lot of unanswered questions when it comes to paint protection and over the last few decades the industry has changed and with it, so has the technology. From PPF (paint protection film) and vinyl wraps, protecting your vehicles surface can sometimes be a tricky endeavor. Ryan Schiller is the owner of Elite Auto Works in Sacramento, CA, a company that specializes in protecting and caring for some of the best cars in the world and on this episode of the Hot Rod BBQ podcast he sits down...
Oct 10, 2023•43 min
We here at Hemmings get asked all the time, “How do I get into this industry, and do what you do?” Not only is the answer not a simple one, but it also varies for each and every individual as the automotive industry as a whole is far more vast than most can imagine. First you’ve got to decide on where you want to be and what you think you want to do. For instance, there’s media, marketing, jouralism, automotive reviews, design, sales, hosting, podcasting, etc. The list goes on and on. There are ...
Oct 03, 2023•37 min
From the iconic Lamborghini Countach in "The Cannonball Run" to the post-apocalyptic Last Interceptor from the Mad Max franchise, on this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, host Mike Musto and Ryan Douthit of Driving Sports TV dive deep into the unforgettable vehicles that have graced the silver screen and helped to shape generations of gearheads the world over!
Sep 19, 2023•30 min
Building a custom vehicle is no easy task. It takes time, patience, the wherewithal to stick to a plan, money, possibly switching shops, more money, and finally, a lot more money. And while you may think we’re overexaggerating, trust us, we’re not. You see Hemmings is currently building a wicked little all-wheel drive sled in the form of a 2023 Dodge Hornet. Why a Hornet you ask? Well, we dig em’, they’re quick, and while in stock form they may seem a little pedestrian, we knew differently, whic...
Sep 19, 2023•33 min
Once a year, in mid-August, on the Monterey Bay Peninsula in Northern, California, an automotive pilgrimage happens that’s unlike any other. It’s where enthusiasts the world over travel to experience some of the best automobiles on the planet in a setting that is nothing short of breathtaking. Its origins date back to the 1950s, and over the last 70 years, the event has grown into a bucket list item for all who enjoy the automobile. This is Monterey Car Week, and on this episode of the Hemmings ...
Aug 29, 2023•44 min
