In Wheel Time - Cartalk Radio

Welcome to the pulse of car culture, where the roar of engines and the sizzle of Tex-Mex unite under the Texas sun at the Tailpipes & Tacos Cruise In! This isn't just any car show; it's a vibrant celebration of chrome and cuisine where we chat with enthusiasts like Jimmy Nichols, whose '55 Chevy isn't just a car but a storied member of his family. Get revved up as we award the coveted Chili Pepper trophies and fuel the spirit of giving with every taco devoured in support of God's Garage. It's all about the classics, the camaraderie, and the heartwarming tales of restoration and resilience that spin from the wheels of history.Strap in as we shift gears to crucial conversations with Sergeant Stephen Woodard from the Department of Public Safety, steering us through the sizzling topics of car and motorcycle safety. He shines a light on the life-or-death importance of not leaving kids or pets in hot cars and joins us on the front lines to promote vigilance and share preventive mea

Rev your engines for an unforgettable ride with us at the vibrant Tailpipes & Tacos Cruise In, as we chat with Adela Graves about her bold yellow '68 Dodge Coronet 440 and take a joyride down memory lane with her humorous automotive adventures. We also navigate through the recent storm's aftermath in Spring Branch, admiring the community's unyielding resilience, and cast a spotlight on the sobering realities of fatal car crashes, underscoring the relentless importance of driver safety during Jeff's latest feature. Our conversations are as charged as a V8 engine, filled with the revving spirits of classic car enthusiasts.Buckle up as we introduce you to the big-hearted folks at God's Garage—a charity that's driving change by providing vehicles to single mothers, widows, and military wives. Then, shift into a lower gear with Peter Holt's captivating tale of restoring his beloved Isetta microcar, proving that passion for vintage autos knows no bounds. It's a motley cre

Rev your engines and get ready for a high-octane discussion on the state of the automotive market! We're coming to you from the bustling scene of Tailpipes and Tacos at the Lupe' Tortilla Tex-Mex in Katy, Texas, where the roar of engines is matched only by the lively banter. Join us as we explore the unexpected swell in 2023 model year vehicle inventory and dissect the tantalizing deals consumers might snag, especially with Memorial Day on the horizon. You'll also get the insider scoop on interest rates and pricing strategies that could signal even better opportunities as the summer heat rolls in. Plus, we're thrilled to have Brad Thompson from God's Garage with us, sharing the touching narrative of how his charity is changing lives, one car at a time.Shift into a more heartfelt gear as we discuss the longevity of our beloved road companions and the poignant growth of God's Garage, from a single generous deed to a thriving 501(c)(3) powerhouse. We'll navigate through the cha

Rev your engines and join us as we cruise through the pulsing heart of Texas car culture. From the Tailpipes and Tacos Cruise-In to the horsepower heaven that is the Hot Rod Tour of Texas, strap in for a wild ride. We catch up with Chase Murray, the new driving force behind Tailpipes and Tacos, and we talk shop about its revival and expansion plans. You'll also hear the throaty roar of a classic 1946 Ford and unveil the secrets behind Stan Holt's growing car collection. Plus, Don Armstrong gives you the inside scoop on my test drive of the 2024 Ford Ranger, with its high-tech infotainment and robust EcoBoost engine.There's nothing quite like sharing the love for shiny chrome and the sweet scent of gasoline with family, a tradition that's kept the wheels of car shows spinning for generations. Reflect with us on how car shows become part of our familial DNA, shaping the next generation of enthusiasts and racers. Listen to tales from the Hot Rod Tour, marvel at the blend of old-school charm a

It's the roar of Porsches and the camaraderie of car enthusiasts that fuels our passion. Join us, as we rev up the engines at the Gulf Coast Auto Shield Spring Car Social Cruise In, where the Lone Star Region of the  Porsche Club of America, helmed by the affable VP Stan Tripp, shatters any preconceived notions of exclusivity. It's not just about the cars; it's about the people, the stories, and yes, even the quirky travel anecdotes that weave into the vibrant tapestry of our community. Listen closely, and you'll hear the heart of car culture beating, from the weekend drives to the quarterly dinners where friendships are forged over shared passions.The streets of Houston hum with the spirit of car lovers, and this episode applauds the businesses that drive our enthusiasm. We tip our hats to the stalwarts like ProAm Auto Accessories and share the warmth of charitable endeavors like God's Garage, a testament to the good that grows when gears mesh in support of a cause. From the underbel

Embark on a journey through the electric energy of Ford's production escapades to the heart of Louisiana's culinary traditions with us. We kick things off with a comedic twist, mistaken cold brews for electric cars, before setting the scene at a bustling Houston auto event. You'll be right there with us as we rally behind the meaningful work of God's Garage and the impact of ProAm Auto Accessories reaching across the globe. The night comes alive as we reminisce about the soulful tunes and vibrant nights of Louisiana, all while digging into the critical work of Tech Force Foundation in fueling the automotive industry's future.Cruise with us down to Gulf Coast Auto Shield, as we weave through Houston's landmarks and meet the characters that make this city's car culture thrive. Stanley Afford of OutTheMudCrawfish.com joins us, spilling secrets of the mudbug trade and the art of a true Louisiana crawfish boil. You can almost taste the spice as we discuss the intricacies of prepa

Join the ride with Don and Darlene Gilley as we throttle through their transformation from truck loyalists to Porsche purists at the Spring Car Social hosted by Gulf Coast Auto Shield. The Gilleys, with a twinkle in their eye, recount the evolution of their garage, starting with a humble base model and now boasting a 2019 Carrera GTS that corners dreams like it does hairpin turns. They're not shy about their love for the track at Angleton, where they push their engineering marvels to the limits, or the special place in Darlene's heart for her 2015 Macan – a vehicle she intends to treasure well beyond its final odometer tick.As we cruise from horsepower to waves, we reminisce about the glory days of Evinrude engines and mesh the unexpected bliss of pairing the nautical with the automotive in Porsche style. Our conversation takes a pit stop in memory lane with stories of fishing adventures and detailing derring-do, showcasing the bond within our car-loving community. And just before we hit the finish

Buckle up for a horsepower-packed adventure as we unleash the details of the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse in our latest episode! But first, we've got a tale that'll rev up any auto aficionado's heart—a guest whose automotive journey spans from the nostalgia of an '85.5 Porsche 944 to the sheer exhilaration of a Guards Red 2019 GTS Carrera 4 Porsche. His story is more than just a love affair with Porsches; it's a celebration of the enhancements that make his GTS Carrera a daily driver with the soul of a track beast, complete with a PDK transmission and all-wheel drive. Whether you're a fan of the iconic German marque or just love a good yarn about cars that connect with us on a deeper level, this chat is your ticket to a fantastic ride.As the RPMs rise, we switch lanes to a segment that's equal parts fun and fascination—the Classic Car Price Guessing Game. Prepare to be astonished by the values of yesteryear's treasures, from the '78 Corvette with its signature fast

Step into the world of car restoration magic with Cireen Piz, our featured detailer who breathes new life into classic cars, turning rust to radiance with her expert touch. As the engines roar at the Spring Car Social, part of the Gulf Coast Auto Shield event, we catch up with Cireen to get the inside scoop on her journey from esthetician to auto detailing guru, post-recession. Feel her passion for the craft and the pride in a job well done, we chat about the thrilling Hot Rod Tour Of Texas and the essential upgrades that keep vintage vehicles looking their absolute best. Jeff's Motor Minute is here too, serving up a quick hit of this week's most intriguing automotive news, while I unwrap further industry insights that are sparking conversations far and wide.Fasten your seatbelts for a nostalgic trip as I Cireen shares her dream of one day owning a 1970 Cuda in iconic Plum Crazy Purple. We dive into the vibrant world of car colors, revealing some unexpected trivia that might just surprise you. Then,

Peek under the hood of car customization as we reconnect with John Gray from Gulf Coast Auto Shield, a maestro in the vibrant realm of vehicle aesthetics and armor. Our bond with John stretches back to 2014, and his expertise shines through in our latest chat about the transformative magic of color-changing car wraps, specifically the avant-garde undertaking with a Tesla Cybertruck. It's not every day you encounter a color-shifting paint protection film that boasts a decade-long warranty, and we dissect every layer of this fascinating process. Car enthusiasts, brace yourselves, as we also showcase a mint-condition 1999 R34—this automotive icon just received a bespoke protection kit that's as impressive as its heritage.Switching lanes, we cruise into the unexpectedly enduring world of CB radios. Discover why these retro gadgets maintain their spot on the dashboard for many long-haul adventurers, even in our smartphone-dominated era. We unpack the quirks of CB radio boosters, exploring their power and

Get ready to have your perceptions charged up as we ride along with John Vincent of US News, uncovering the electrifying world of the top hybrid and electric vehicles. If you're curious about which luxury electric SUV snatched the top spot from the likes of Tesla, or how the Lucid Air is redefining luxury in electric sedans, then buckle up for a thrilling episode that promises to turbocharge your automotive knowledge. We also tackle the real-world implications of federal tax incentives on EVs and hybrids, and Don will even let you in on his own experience with a plug-in hybrid—perfect for zipping through daily errands.As we steer through the latest industry accolades, find out why the 2024 Toyota Camry Hybrid and the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid are driving off with awards, and how the Lexus NX Hybrid is revolutionizing the luxury hybrid marketplace. But it's not all smooth driving; we confront the bumps in the road, like the challenge of expanding EV infrastructure and the alarming trend of EV charging ca

As the sun sets behind the Great Smoky Mountains, Don can still hear the echo of the 2024 GMC 2500 Diesel's engine as we reminisce about the serpentine thrill ride known as the 'Tail of the Dragon'. This episode is a love letter to the open road, where the joy of driving transcends the destination. We've got a tale that'll tickle your funny bone—a pair of car thieves whose day went from bad to worse in a comedic twist of fate. While Valerie Frapp couldn't join us, the rustic charm of the historic Tapoco Lodge area doesn't go uncelebrated, transporting us back to a time when adventures were just outside our windshields.Imagine pulling up to the Stonewall Motor Lodge, where the past collides with the present in the best ways possible. It's in these conversations about road trips, where family bonds are strengthened, that you'll find yourself transported back to a time of Americana nostalgia. From the comforts of modern amenities blended with vintage aesthetics to the

Strap in for an electrifying conversation with Rhonda Palmer, a Corvette aficionado who takes us under the hood of the Big Bend Open Road Race. She's got the lowdown on everything from the strategy of hitting target speeds to the sheer thrill of hitting 140 miles per hour on Texas highways. But it's not all fast cars and finish lines; Rhonda reveals the heart of the race lies in the communal spirit, where tales are as freely exchanged as gear shifts. You'll also catch a whiff of the playful banter between drivers and their 'nag-a-vators', proving that even in the heat of competition, there's always room for a good laugh.Switching gears, we cruise through the latest automotive currents. Feast your ears on the details of the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray, a true speed demon set to lead the pack at the Indianapolis 500. We'll also navigate the economic twists and turns steering consumers towards more wallet-friendly rides. Plus, we've got the scoop on Hyundai's financ

Buckle up for a heartwarming family affair as Jeff's granddaughter, Kylie, takes the wheel on her first car-buying adventure at Emmons Motorplex. Join us as we navigate the twists and turns of choosing between a Chevy Equinox and a Ford Escape, and discover why an SUV trumped a sedan for Kylie's maiden voyage. Her story is a roadmap for any first-time buyer, laced with excitement, practical considerations, and a touch of family humor. Plus, get a glimpse of the racing week ahead and prepare for a revved-up review of the powerful 2024 Ford Mustang GT from our resident expert, Mr. Marrs.The rubber hits the road in this episode as we cruise through the car-buying experience at Emmons Motors, where the no-stress atmosphere and Alberto's expertise put Kylie in the driver's seat of a like-new Ford Escape. Ready for the long haul, we chat about the lasting impact of thoughtful car-related gifts and share personal tales that'll make you chuckle and nod in agreement. As we cross the finish lin

Apologies are in order as we kick off a tad behind schedule, but John Gray from Gulf Coast Auto Shield ensures it's worth the wait with his treasure trove of automotive know-how. Picture this: Tesla Cybertrucks transformed into eye-popping works of art with a stormtrooper-themed gloss white wrap and a color flip paint protection film that's as red as the passion of every car enthusiast out there. John peels back the curtain on the meticulous care and customization that high-end vehicles demand, from pristine paint correction to the precision installation of dash cams and brake calipers. Shift into high gear with us as we indulge in the rich tapestry of Porsche's journey from the classic air-cooled 911s to the magnificence of the 992. As we navigate the twists and turns of the electric vehicle landscape, we'll ponder Rivian's rocky road, despite heavyweight Amazon in the driver's seat, Fisker's market bumps, and Polestar 2's approach to lease rates. Then, revving up the

Have you ever witnessed a phoenix rising from the ashes? That's what springs to mind when Justin Smith of Smithy Customs unfolds the incredible tale of a 1968 Camaro's transformation. It’s a narrative that epitomizes revival—a once-charred relic now roaring to life with a sleek Porsche Voodoo Blue interior and a performance engine that turns heads. Our chat at the 28th Annual Keels & Wheels Concours d'Elegance is not merely about steel and rubber; it's a heartfelt story of a car entwined with its owner's life, missing its reveal for a milestone anniversary but still delivering an emotional punch that transcends generations of car lovers.Switching lanes, we tackle the nuts and bolts of rebuilding classics during unprecedented times, where adaptability and acute planning become our best tools. Delve into the world of high-performance rebuilds and the day-to-day symphony of running a bustling automotive shop with me. From the meticulous stages of a car's rebirth to the joyful cu

Prepare to be whisked away on a historic ride as we unveil the secrets of a 1963 Mustang Convertible, a gem from the Keels & Wheels Concours d'Elegance. With the help of Eric Lipper, we get up close and personal with this pre-production classic, discussing its hand-built charm, modifications, and the humorous hiccup of it running out of gas en route to the show. The Mustang's storied past, including its star-studded appearance at the New York World's Fair, truly captures the essence of Ford’s legacy—a narrative woven throughout this episode.Venture behind the closed doors of a car collector's paradise, where the heart of American muscle—the Boss 429 Mustang—sits alongside an exotic right-hand drive Ferrari 308 and the revered '63 split-window Corvette. As we tour this private collection, we not only uncover the owner's strategy for keeping his prized assembly away from the market but also tease the possibility of adding pre-war classics to the lineup. Will derby caps become t

Bask in the nostalgia of the 28th Annual Keels & Wheels Concours d'Elegance with us and discover the allure of classic cars and boats under the Texan sun. Our journey through this episode includes an exclusive look at a pre-production Ford Mustang and an intimate conversation with Eric, a collector whose passion for automotive history is as infectious as it is insightful. We also celebrate milestones like the Ford Skyliner's debut and Oldsmobile's closure, while Jeff draws us into the vibrant and statement-making world of Miami's DONK culture.Listen as we cruise through the customized curves of Box DONKS, Bubble DONKS, and even El Camino DONKS, uncovering the artistry and dedication it takes to convert a classic into a DONK – a transformation that's never a round trip. Our exploration doesn't stop there; we ponder the influence of weather on car meets, the trials of event planning, and offer guidance for your own custom car endeavors, including the perks of purchasing an alre

Step into the elegant world of classic cars and vintage boats with us at the Lakewood Yacht Club's Keels & Wheels Concours d'Elegance. Feel the nostalgia and charm as we explore the private club's history and the passionate community that keeps the legacy of yesteryear's engineering marvels alive. With younger generations catching the classic car fever, we're witnessing the vibrant future of these automotive and nautical treasures unfold right before our eyes.Sail into inspiration with Julie Howell, who shares the transformative impact of the Seahorses youth sailing program on empowering children with life skills. Our celebration of community spirit doesn't end there—join us as we unveil the excitement leading up to the Keels & Wheels event and applaud local initiatives like God's Garage that drive positive change, all while spotting military helicopters overhead.Then, buckle up for a journey through time with Jay Matthews, a retired rice farmer whose love for antiqu

As the gentle Texas breeze whispers through the vintage cars at the Keels & Wheels Concours d'Elegance, we ensconce ourselves in the lap of automotive luxury with a thorough examination of the 2024 Infiniti QX60. Imagine gripping the wheel of this sumptuous SUV, with its quilted leather hugging your every curve and the open road beckoning. The In Wheel Time crew join the chorus, comparing notes on how Infiniti's offering contends with luxury titans like Audi and disruptors like Kia. We wrench open the hood of performance, styling, and the nuances that set the QX60 apart, all while navigating the competitive currents of the luxury SUV marketplace.Shift gears with us as we switch from plush modernity to the soulful art of classic car restoration with John Hardin, Creative Classics and Customs. Feel the heartbeat of history as we share tales from the trenches of rebuilding automotive legends, blending yesterday's allure with today's tech. Listen in as we reminisce about our journey from c