Welcome Cooper Casters to the latest edition of the Cooper Cast, where we take you on a wild ride through MINI Takes The States! I’m your host Dale Blankenship, coming to you live-ish from scenic, and warm, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Daily Wrap-Ups; Today kicked off with MINI enthusiasts revving up their engines and gearing up for the first leg of this epic adventure from Albuquerque’s desert vibes to Durango’s mountain majesties, we’ve got it all covered. Think of it as a MINI-coaster ride throug...
Jul 13, 2024•12 min•Ep. 16
Join us on The Cooper Cast podcast with your ever-enthusiastic host, Dale Blankenship, for the final prelude before the legendary MINI Takes The States rally kicks off in Albuquerque! 🚗💨 In this episode, Dale dishes out some fun tips to ensure your MTTS adventure is not just epic, but also safe and packed with fun. From picking the perfect rally snacks, choosing eateries, to things you can do to stay safe, we've got you covered. So, buckle up, hit play, and get ready to laugh your way through ...
Jul 09, 2024•19 min•Season 1Ep. 14
In this episode of The Cooper Cast podcast, host Dale Blankenship dives into what newbies can expect from MINI Takes The States, a week-long rally from Albuquerque, NM to Seattle, WA. Dale covers everything from the registration process to the Rise and Rally morning gatherings and the excitement of hitting the road each day. This epic road adventure promises unforgettable experiences, and even seasoned MTTSers will find valuable tips to enhance their journey. Whether you're a first-timer or a ve...
Jul 02, 2024•27 min•Season 1Ep. 14
Join Dale Blankenship on this week's episode of The Cooper Cast Podcast as we continue our journey through MINI Takes The States (MTTS). In this episode, we delve into the wisdom of veteran MTTS attendees who share their experiences and valuable insights on what to pack and what they wish they had brought over the years. Their advice aims to help you enhance your MTTS experience, ensuring you don't miss out on the must-have items. We offer an essential packing list for MTTS to ensure a smooth an...
Jun 25, 2024•33 min•Season 1Ep. 13
Welcome back, MINI enthusiasts, to another jam-packed episode of The Cooper Cast, hosted by yours truly, Dale Blankenship. In this episode, we’re spilling the tea (and maybe some motor oil) on the latest and greatest in the MINI universe. First up, let’s talk about the new F66 MINI. The three-tone roof option is returning as a US only deal. But it’s not all rainbows and rooftops. Bad news for the US market: we’re saying goodbye to the 3-cylinder engine. RIP, little buddy. On the bright side, the...
Jun 18, 2024•40 min•Ep. 12
In this episode of the Cooper Cast, host Dale Blankenship dives into several important topics for MINI Cooper enthusiasts. We begin with a detailed discussion on antifreeze and coolants, exploring their various types, compatibility issues, and the critical importance of using the right one for your vehicle to avoid potential damage. Next, we shift gears to examine the benefits and differences between FRS (Family Radio Service) and GRMS (General Mobile Radio Service) radios. Dale explains the key...
Jun 04, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 11
In the latest episode of The Cooper Cast, hosted by Dale Blankenship, listeners are treated to an exciting discussion centered around the newest MINI Countryman, which was recently displayed by FLOW MINI at the MINIs On The Dragon event. Get some first impressions highlighting the vehicle's design, features, and performance enhancements. The episode also delves into a significant leadership change at MINI, exploring the potential implications for the brand's future. Additionally, we engage in a ...
May 21, 2024•32 min•Season 1Ep. 10
Welcome back to another episode of Cooper Cast! With your host Dale Blankenship, and today we're diving into the aftermath of the thrilling 21st annual MINIs On The Dragon event. We reflect on the highlights and excitement of the 21st annual MINIs On The Dragon event. MINIs On The Dragon: Recap of MINIs On The Dragon: We reflect on the highlights and excitement of the 21st annual MINIs On The Dragon event. From the thrilling drives through winding roads to the camaraderie among MINI enthusiasts,...
May 07, 2024•30 min•Season 1Ep. 9
Welcome to Cooper Cast! In this episode, we dive into MINI USA's "Motoring Rules of the Road," offering insights and discussions on safe driving practices. We're gearing up for the exciting MINIs On The Dragon event this weekend, along with the upcoming MINI Takes The States adventure. However, we also address the unfortunate presence of parts scammers within MINI enthusiast groups, shedding light on this issue and exploring ways to tackle it. Tune in for all things MINI, from community events t...
Apr 30, 2024•24 min•Ep. 8
In this lively episode of the Cooper Cast podcast, your host Dale Blankenship dives into the world of radar detectors, weighing their merits. He recounts thrilling MINI adventures, from MINIs Slay The Backroads of Appalachia in West Virginia to the Watkins Glen Job in New York, promising listeners a taste of the action. Dale teases the excitement to come with MINIs On The Dragon and the epic MINI Takes The States events on the horizon. Wrapping up, he shares a tip to help maintain hinges and lat...
Apr 16, 2024•31 min•Ep. 7
Welcome to the latest episode Cooper Cast podcast! This time around, we're revving our engines with tales of MINI madness. Meet a couple of MINI mavens who've transformed their rides into rolling works of art. We also take a hilarious detour into the wild world of Facebook MINI Cooper groups—where questionable advice runs rampant like a herd of unruly goats. And buckle up for a discussion on dash cams, because nothing says "fun" like debating the merits of capturing every glorious moment on the ...
Apr 02, 2024•36 min•Ep. 6
Welcome to The Cooper Cast with host Dale Blankenship! In this week's episode, we dive into the world of MINI motoring with industry experts, exploring the potential problems of the 2nd generation MINI Coopers. From prevalent issues to savvy tips on avoiding trouble, we weigh the pros and cons of purchasing one. Plus, discover a simple, inexpensive purchase that enhances visibility at stoplights. Stay tuned for exciting MINI Rally updates. Tune in for all things MINI! Detroit Tuned, Detroit, MI ...
Mar 19, 2024•46 min•Ep. 5
Join us for the fourth thrilling episode of The Cooper Cast Podcast with host Dale Blankenship! In this edition, we delve into the fascinating world of MINI Cooper Model Codes, helping which MINI you actually own. It's not just automotive bingo, those numbers actually mean something. But that's not all! We've got insider tips on how to spot those crafty scammers lurking in Facebook groups. We'll dive into the treacherous waters, armed with insider tips on spotting scammers. Learn to navigate the...
Mar 05, 2024•42 min•Season 1Ep. 4
In the latest episode of Cooper Cast, buckle up for an exhilarating ride through the atest developments in the world of MINI Coopers. Hosts Dale Blankenship dives into the breaking news that BMW is making a bold move by pivoting towards hydrogen-powered vehicles, leaving electric vehicles in the rearview mirror. Get ready to explore the potential implications for MINI and what it means for the future of the all electric MINI brand. But that's not all – the 2024 MINI lineup is turning heads with ...
Feb 20, 2024•35 min•Season 1Ep. 3
Get ready for a turbocharged ride on The Cooper Cast with the Dale Blankenship! In episode two, we're diving into the whimsical world of naming your MINI – from zippy monikers to quirky choices. Join the conversation as we unravel MINI's decision to keep "Cooper" exclusive to hatchbacks and convertibles. Plus, buckle up for a tire-spinning discussion on run flats and an exciting sneak peek into the revved-up adventure of MINI Takes The States 2024. It's a podcast pit stop you won't want to miss!...
Feb 09, 2024•16 min•Season 1Ep. 2
Join host Dale Blankenship for an adrenaline-fueled premiere of The Cooper Cast podcast, a high-octane pit stop for MINI Cooper enthusiasts. In this episode, rev your engines as we unveil our exciting plans for future shows – from the latest models and mods to MINI events, community features, and more. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newcomer, buckle up for a fast-paced ride into the heart of MINI excitement. Welcome to The Cooper Cast – where MINI passion meets podcasting thri...
Jan 30, 2024•25 min•Ep. 1
Welcome to the Cooper Cast podcast, where your host, Dale Blankenship, takes you on a thrilling ride through the exciting world of MINI Coopers. Join us as we dive into discussions about the latest MINI Cooper models, explore modifications, and share insights into MINI events and the vibrant community that surrounds these iconic cars. From the various clubs and vendors to essential maintenance tips and the adrenaline-pumping world of MINI racing, we've got it all covered. But most importantly, g...
Jan 19, 2024•2 min
