Talkin’ Shift Podcast

This week on Talkin’ Shift, we’re joined by Scott Woodruff from the IHRA to break down everything they’ve had going on lately — and it’s a lot. We talk about IHRA’s recent push into track ownership (including deals for multiple well-known facilities) and what that means for racers, fans, and the future of the sport. We also get into how IHRA has been expanding what they’re involved with, including the growth of their pro-level programming like the Outlaw Nitro Series, and how they’re trying to build a bigger pipeline that supports everything from big-show racing down to grassroots bracket programs.

For the first time ever, we took Talkin’ Shift on the road and set up shop at Bradenton Motorsports Park. Our guest is Victor Alvarez, co-owner of BMP (alongside Cleetus McFarland) and someone who’s been deeply involved in motorsports from a young age. We talk about Vic’s racing background, how he ended up buying a drag strip in his 20s, and what it’s really like owning and operating one of the most well-known tracks in the country. Of course, we also get into the Christmas Tree Drags — including some friendly debate about Vic “cheating” — and plenty of stories you don’t usually hear from the track owner’s side.

This week on Talkin’ Shift, we’re joined by Michelle Lackey, the owner and operator of Alaska’s only drag strip. If you’ve seen racing in Alaska, chances are it’s happening at her track. We talk about what it’s really like running a drag strip in Alaska — from the unreal mountain views to the short racing season, weather challenges, logistics, and how it all compares to tracks in the lower 48. Michelle breaks down what makes Alaska racing unique and what it takes to keep the scene alive that far north.

The crew is back in the studio after one of the wildest weekends of the year — Import vs Domestic: World Cup Finals. We break down everything from record-setting passes and personal bests to the wrecks, oil-downs, and chaos that kept the track crew busy all weekend.

This week on Talkin’ Shift, we’re joined by Billy the Kid — racer, YouTuber, and creator of Street Racing Channel. You’ve seen him in the streets, at the track, and most recently going viral for that wild wheelstand at SCT Nashville. We talk about what led up to that run, how Street Racing Channel came to life, and the grind it took to go from working for $12/hr to going full-time on YouTube. From growing up in the racing scene to competing against names like Ryan Mitchell and racing at the fastest small-tire events, Billy shares what it’s really like living life wide open.