Tuned In - podcast cover

Tuned In

High Performance Academywww.hpacademy.com

High Performance Academy Presents: Tuned In. A podcast interviewing influential people from around the world at the top of their respected fields. Covering topics such as Tuning, CAD, Performance Engine Building, Automotive/Motorsport Wiring, Data Analysis, Driver Coaching/Training, Motorsport Fabrication and Car Setup.

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Episodes

160: Next-Level Toyota Builds with Ryan Tuerck – ST205 Celica

We all fantasise about dream car builds, whether they’re elaborate masterpieces never done before or something stock standard we’ve seen a hundred times. Some people just have a knack for making things cool, and Ryan Tuerck from 411 Works is firmly in that category, with what might be the coolest collection of Toyota performance builds out there. We had to get Ryan back for a second episode to unpack his latest creation—an insane ST205 Toyota Celica—and to find out more about his new business, 4...

Apr 22, 20261 hr 30 min

159: BMW Direct Injection on MoTeC: Genius or Headache?

Port-injected engines and aftermarket standalone ECUs go hand in hand—but controlling direct-injected engines is far less charted territory. Brett Strom from Strom Motorsport has been deep in the weeds mastering BMW’s B48 on a MoTeC ECU, and he’s here to break it all down—plus much more. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip In this episode of Tuned In, Brett shares his journey from young racing enthusiast to professional racer and engineer. He ...

Apr 08, 20262 hr 12 min

158: No Compromise? Why the 8HP Might Be the Ultimate Transmission

Having a silky-smooth automatic alongside a quick-shifting manual transmission capable of handling 1000HP in the same transmission seems impossible—but the ZF 8HP might just achieve it. Andrew Astley from 8speed joins us to explain why this transmission has become such a popular choice. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip In this episode of Tuned In , Andrew shares his journey from growing up near Silverstone in the UK to becoming a leader in ...

Mar 25, 20261 hr 39 min

157: Inside IndyCar’s Golden Era of Racing

The 1990s were arguably the ‘Golden Era’ of motorsport, particularly in the world of wings-and-slicks racing. High-revving engines, intense competition, and iconic car designs made it an unforgettable time. Championship Auto Racing Teams (CART) was no exception, and Russell Cameron from Horizon Motorsport was right in the thick of it. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip In this episode of Tuned In , Russell shares his journey from a small-town...

Mar 11, 20261 hr 42 min

156: Breaking Down Diesel: Myths, Tuning & Truth

The internet is packed with misleading information—and the automotive world is no exception. Thankfully, creators like Jamin Seat from the YouTube channel Freedom Worx are cutting through the noise. He tackles misunderstood topics head-on with engaging, easy-to-digest, and genuinely informative content—served with just the right dose of humour. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip In this episode of Tuned In , Jamin shares his journey from a ki...

Feb 25, 20261 hr 41 min

155: Building The Worlds Best Sounding 5 Rotor

David Mazzei may well have the best-sounding turbocharged rotary on the planet, but how he chased down that elusive F1 V10 sound with this masterpiece of an engine is somewhat unexpected. Rotary engines are often labelled as temperamental and unreliable, but David Mazzei of Mazzei Formula believes the opposite. In his view, rotaries can be among the most reliable engines when properly understood. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip In this epi...

Feb 11, 20262 hr 5 min

154: 1000+ HP Diesels to 2JZ Weapons — Chuckles Garage Does It All

Pikes Peak and land speed record racing couldn’t be more different when it comes to motorsport, and that’s exactly why Scott Birdsall from Chuckles Garage is so interesting. From 1,000+ HP diesel hill climb monsters to a 2JZ-powered, land speed record-holding Toyota Hilux, Scott is into everything cool and fast. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip In this episode of Tuned In, Scott shares his journey from a childhood passion for cars to becomi...

Jan 28, 20261 hr 50 min

Revisited: Want to Get Your Car Handling Better Than Ever Before? Listen to This.

*** We’ll be taking a break over the Christmas/New Year period and will be back in action mid-January. That means that although there won’t be any new episodes for a few weeks, we’ll be taking another look back at some of our favourite episodes. *** Are you sick of playing the guessing game when it comes to setting up the suspension and tyre systems in your race or road car? If you’ve ever felt like you’re throwing alignment adjustments, damper settings, and spring rate changes at the pit wall j...

Jan 14, 20262 hr

Revisited: Is Honda’s K-Series Really the Greatest 4-Cylinder Ever Made?

*** We’ll be taking a break over the Christmas/New Year period and will be back in action mid-January. That means that although there won’t be any new episodes for a few weeks, we’ll be taking another look back at some of our favourite episodes. *** Few people know more about ultra-high-performance engine building than this week’s guest, Terry Radbourne of Bourne HPP. In this episode, we’re going to be discussing topics like creating engines for LMP1 and Mercedes’ F1 team, truly getting the abso...

Dec 31, 20252 hr 17 min

153: A High School Project Gone Wild: 1,450HP IndyCar x Firebird

What would happen if you took an IndyCar inspired chassis, dropped a 1973 Pontiac Firebird body over the top of it, and then added a 1,450hp twin-turbo LS? That’s essentially what Cavan Cameron and his father, Russell Cameron, of Horizon Motorsport have built. The project began as Cavan’s high school engineering project but has since evolved into one of the coolest and most ambitious builds we’ve seen in a while. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/p...

Dec 17, 20251 hr 54 min

152: Building a Lamborghini Gallardo into a WTAC Weapon

There’s no arguing the Lamborghini Gallardo GT3 is no slouch. But the World Time Attack Challenge is a whole different league, and in standard form this factory race car is basically like bringing a knife to a gunfight. To run with the world’s best, it needed serious development—and that’s exactly what Josh and his team at Specialised Racing Solutions delivered, bagging P2 in Pro class on the car’s debut outing. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/po...

Dec 03, 20251 hr 46 min

151: CBR1000 x Miata - A Match Made in Heaven?

Many car enthusiasts have fantasised about a lightweight car with a motorcycle engine swap. After all, what’s not to like about a high-revving, lightweight engine that produces great power and sounds incredible, right? Reed Stormzand from the YouTube channel Reed Make Car tells us that while the combo can be awesome, it definitely hasn’t been all plain sailing. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip In this episode of Tuned In , Reed shares his j...

Nov 19, 20251 hr 18 min

150: The Self-Taught Way: Building Wild Engines from Scratch

Imagine being a self-taught engineer who mastered the intricacies of engine design and is now building bespoke engines from the ground up. That’s exactly what Josh Valman from Motorsport_Engineering has done. We welcome Josh back for his second appearance on the podcast. This time, we catch up on his wild Alpha V8 Hayabusa project and dive into his latest creation — a turbocharged hot-vee V6 bespoke engine. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip ...

Nov 05, 20251 hr 57 min

149: Cracking the CAN Code: Mastering Integration in Performance Builds

CAN communication might seem like a secret, nerdy language spoken only by electronic components —and, in a way, it is. But behind that digital chatter lies the key to unlocking integration between different electrical systems. Mitch Minton from Minton Performance joins us to unpack CAN communication—how it really works, and why it’s become such a crucial part of the aftermarket performance world. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip In this epi...

Oct 22, 20251 hr 53 min

148: The “Impossible” Backyard V10 Screamer

Want a high-revving, F1-sounding, naturally aspirated V10 on a budget? Sounds impossible—until Jack and Diego from Build It Yourself made it happen. They took a humble Ford V10 truck engine, crafted custom four-valve heads, and engineered headers that deliver that unmistakable F1 scream. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip In this episode of Tuned In , Jack and Diego share their backgrounds in automotive engineering and their journey into the ...

Oct 08, 20251 hr 54 min

147: Inside the Art of Bespoke Engine Building

Whether it’s a bespoke quad-turbo V12 or a modified OE production engine, the fundamentals remain the same—we’re all looking for those extra gains. Italtecnica’s Riccardo Breda is here to break down the core concepts that could help you take your engine build to the next level. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https: //hpcdmy.co/podvip In this episode of Tuned In , Riccardo discusses his journey into automotive engineering and his role as an engine designer at Ital...

Sep 24, 20251 hr 35 min

146: From Home Builds to Hypercars: Composites for Everyone

Composites might seem like the secret language of aerospace engineers and hypercar builders, but Gabriel Mountjoy from Common Fibers is here to break down those barriers. He’s out to prove that composites aren’t just exotic materials—you can use them to elevate your own builds too. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip In this episode of Tuned In , Gabe shares his journey from a mechanical engineering student passionate about automotive efficien...

Sep 10, 20251 hr 46 min

145: How to Avoid Wasting Thousands on the Dyno

It’s common for car enthusiasts to rush their car onto the dyno before it’s truly ready, only to have it strapped down and the tuner uncover a list of issues. Nothing kills the excitement of chasing those long-awaited power figures faster than unexpected problems. Booking a session with remote tuning expert Shawn Christenson could save you thousands. Shawn, from Tuned by Shawn , is a Haltech specialist who can remotely tune your car from anywhere in the world. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get...

Aug 27, 20251 hr 56 min

144: Is a Retired F1 Car the Ultimate Track Toy?

Formula 1 represents the pinnacle of motorsport and James Densley along with the team at TDF Limited are breathing new life into retired F1 cars, transforming them back into the ultimate track weapons. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https: //hpcdmy.co/podvip James shares his journey from a car-obsessed child through karting to mechanic at the top levels of motorsport. He recounts his experiences in Formula 3 and then with Mercedes F1, before explaining how TDF Li...

Aug 13, 20251 hr 38 min

143: DIY Motorsport Isn’t Easy But It’s Insanely Rewarding

No matter the stage of a build, most projects reach a point where giving up feels tempting. They demand grit and perseverance—and Karel Silha from Karel S Motorsport’s wild DTM-inspired M4 Time Attack build is no exception. We first spoke to Karel in 2022, and now he’s back to share what it really takes to shake down and test a home-built car of this caliber. Believe it or not, it all started with a toy car that Karel scanned and scaled up using CAD 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF H...

Jul 30, 20252 hr

Field Report: Why Your CAD Designs Don't Work

Designing an elaborate engine block or cylinder head in CAD is one thing, but actually manufacturing that design is another challenge altogether. In this video, we talk with Gerry from Crest CNC about what it takes to turn complex billet and cast designs into reality Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip Gerry handles CAD design at Crest CNC, creating engine blocks, cylinder heads, and the tooling and fixtures required to manufacture them efficient...

Jul 21, 202510 min

142: “Composites” aren’t just for high-end motorsport

“Composites” aren’t just expensive and elaborate carbon fibre parts for high-end race teams. It may be easier, more accessible, and cheaper than you think to get started in the composite game. This week on the podcast, we sit down with Keith Peden from Rodin Cars to unravel the world of composites. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip Keith shares his journey from a childhood passion for cars to becoming a composite specialist in the automotive...

Jul 17, 20251 hr 22 min

Field Report: A Clever Solution | 400HP 3-Cylinder G16E-GTS

The Toyota GR Yaris and GR Corolla are already cult favourites, and now they’re about to get even faster. Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip In this interview, Ben from ‪@artec_performance‬ reveals the 18-month R&D journey behind their fully emissions-compliant bolt-on turbo kit for Toyota’s GR platform. This isn't a generic setup, every component is purpose-built to retain OEM fitment, support factory ECU control, and maintain legal emissio...

Jul 14, 20259 min

Field Report: Is a 940kg Toyota MRS the ULTIMATE Grassroots Racer?

"The closest we've got to a mechanic is a panel beater." - Has this group of friends on a budget built something quicker and more special than many big chequebook builds ever will be? Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip Most people overlook the third-gen Toyota MR2 (MR-S), but Justin from Close Enough Racing has spent years turning his into a proper grassroots weapon. From a modest 1ZZ track car to a 450kW turbocharged 2ZZ build with APR widebody...

Jul 07, 202513 min

141: This Could Make or Break Your New Harness.

Forget the hype around “Mil-Spec” wiring — most builds don’t need it. Smart, fit-for-purpose materials and design can still deliver a reliable harness with great performance and aesthetics. This week on the podcast we sit down with Technica Racewire co-founders Philip Chiu and Kevin Tan to uncover the wiring harness essentials. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip Philip and Kevin share their journeys from a childhood passion for cars to becomi...

Jul 03, 20251 hr 50 min

Field Report: A BETTER conversion option?

Ever wondered what it takes to convert an old car into a modern 600hp EV using aftermarket tech instead of a Tesla swap? Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip At SEMA, Rory Baldrey from Legacy EV walks through the full electric conversion of HP Tuners classic air-cooled 1984 Porsche 911 Carrera, powered by a Cascadia Motion motor and controlled via HP Tuners' Core EV VCU (ECU). Rory explains how this setup compares to more common OEM-based swaps, l...

Jun 30, 20259 min

Field Report: 550hp Micra | 'Let TORQUE take the wheel'

Ever seen a 550whp front-wheel-drive Micra out on track? Sean Austin’s FWD K11 Nissan Micra is running a turbocharged Primera P11 SR20VE+T Neo VVL (the best SR20?) & 6-speed gearbox, Haltech Nexus R3 engine/power distribution management, Haltech iC-7 dash, and enough power to torque steer into another dimension. Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip With help from CDI Motorsport, Raceworks, Knight Family Motorsport, and a front end swapped in f...

Jun 23, 20257 min

140: You Don't Need a PhD to Add SERIOUS Performance.

You can go a long way with club-level aero — and this is how to do it. On this week's episode of Tuned In, ex-Mercedes F1 aerodynamicist and brand new HPA tutor Kyle Forster helps you find big gains in performance by adding aero. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip Kyle shares his journey of how he became an aerospace engineer with a passion for motorsports, he also discusses the challenges he faced while pursuing a PhD to break into Formula 1...

Jun 19, 20251 hr 54 min

Field Report: They Can't Afford to Get This Wrong.

Ever wonder how a connecting rod that can handle 3000hp+ is designed, tested, and manufactured? Here's a rare inside look at how true high performance aftermarket components are engineered and delivered. At the World Time Attack Challenge, Christian from Nitto Performance Engineering explains the complete workflow behind designing internal engine components like connecting rods. This includes using CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machines) to capture OEM specs, designing in Fusion 360, running FEA (Fi...

Jun 17, 20258 min

Field Report: 1969 Datsun + 16 feet of Titanium = 1 EPIC Build.

What happens when you combine flame-bent titanium, 3D scanning, and a 1969 Datsun Roadster? You get one of our favourite builds, and a happy missus. Connor McElvain ‪@ConnorButter‬ from Butter Welding showcases his custom Nissan/Datsun Roadster project, where old-school cool meets new-school tools. Starting with a complete 3D scan of the body, Connor designed and built a full custom chassis using CAD, ditching the original outdated geometry for a purpose-built cantilever suspension system that w...

Jun 10, 202511 min
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