BREAK/FIX the Motorsports & Vehicle Enthusiast Variety Show

From Porsche Intern to Podcast Host: Dan Pilling’s Journey Through Motorsports and Tech

Break/Fix podcast hosts Dan Pilling, a car enthusiast whose passion for autos began early in life, cemented by an internship with Porsche Cars Great Britain. Dan's career mixed technology and motorsports, collaborating with Microsoft and teams like Lotus, Williams, and Mercedes F1. Moving to the U.S., he continued working with various motorsports teams and recently launched his own podcast, "Danny P on Cars," to share stories from the car community. In this episode, Dan discusses his journey, car culture differences between the UK and the U.S., his new podcast, and addresses personal automotive tastes and experiences.
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00:00 Meet Dan Pilling: From Porsche to Microsoft
01:32 Dan's Early Love for Cars
02:14 Internship at Porsche and Career Decisions
04:18 Microsoft and Formula 1 Partnerships
09:38 Technology in Formula 1
14:15 Comparing Formula 1 and Other Motorsports
22:18 Danny P on Cars: The Podcast Journey
28:14 Car Culture: UK vs. USA
29:44 Exploring American Car Culture
30:04 Differences Between US and European Cars
31:58 The Intersection of Car Communities
33:16 Pacific Northwest Car Scene
36:53 Collector Car Market Insights
38:31 Criminal Record Cars
43:09 Guilty Pleasure Cars
44:30 Hero Cars and Disappointments
48:32 Upcoming Projects and Bucket List Guests
53:22 Final Thoughts and Promotions
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The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
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Riding Against the Odds: Elspeth Beard’s 35,000-Mile Motorcycle Odyssey

This Break/Fix episode features British adventurer and motorcyclist Elspeth Beard, who became one of the first British women to circumnavigate the globe by motorcycle in the early 1980s. The journey started in 1982 when Elspeth was 23 after graduating from architecture school. Spanning three years and covering 35,000 miles, she traveled across various continents facing numerous challenges, including breakdowns, injuries, and illnesses. Her story of resilience and adventure is shared with the help of Jeff Willis, a returning guest who interviewed Elspeth for his book 'Human in the Machine.' The podcast delves into her early inspirations, the impact of her upbringing, the various encounters and challenges during her travels, and her life post-adventure. The episode emphasizes the importance of persistence, adaptability, and the supportive community of motorcyclists. Listeners are encouraged to learn more about Elspeth's journey through her award-winning book 'Lone Rider' and other resources available on her website and social media.
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00:00 Meet Elspeth Beard: The Adventurous Motorcyclist
01:42 Elspeth's Early Days with Motorcycles
03:37 The Journey Begins: Around the World on a Motorcycle
05:46 Challenges and Triumphs on the Road
06:31 Mechanical Skills and Preparation
09:27 The Impetus for the Journey
13:05 Family Dynamics and Support
18:45 Safety and Companionship on the Road
24:29 Financial and Logistical Hurdles
29:51 Navigating Bureaucracy and Visas
33:06 Reflections on the Journey
35:15 Reflecting on the Challenges and Beauty of India
36:40 Coping with Illness and Hardships on the Road
37:41 The Unexpected Journey of Writing a Book
42:57 The Impact of the Journey on Personal Growth
51:05 Encounters with Past Relationships
52:59 Advice for Future Adventurers
55:00 Current Adventures and Reflections
59:20 Final Thoughts and Farewells
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The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
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Shipwrecked Chryslers and the Forgotten Treasure of Lake Superior

This Break/Fix episode delves into the intriguing story of the City of Bangor shipwreck in Upper Michigan, which carried 240 cars, including Chryslers and Whippets, when it wrecked on a reef in 1927. Guest Larry Jorgensen, author and explorer, recounts how a single photograph sparked his research into the event. He details the rescue of the ship's crew, the subsequent salvaging of the cars over a frozen lake, and the community's involvement in this unique historical tale. Jorgensen also highlights the challenges in uncovering this little-known story, including missing records and artifacts. Through this narrative, the episode underscores the enduring allure of treasure hunting in various forms.
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00:00 The Modern-Day Treasure Hunt
01:06 Shipwrecks and Lost Vehicles
01:34 Interview with Larry Jorgensen
02:32 Larry's Connection to Upper Michigan
04:16 The City of Bangor Shipwreck
05:41 Rescue and Aftermath
06:28 Salvaging the Vehicles
07:51 Challenges of the Great Lakes
14:04 The Rescue Mission
15:48 The Aftermath and Legacy
29:43 The Cost of Salvaging Cars
30:15 Chrysler's Financial Dilemma
31:02 The Fate of the Rescued Cars
32:28 The Missing Logbook Mystery
34:54 Other Shipwrecks and Lost Cars
36:36 Salvaging the City of Bangor
41:12 The Hunt for Historical Evidence
47:34 Larry Jorgensen's Writing Journey
50:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
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Driving Change: The Green Grand Prix at Watkins Glen

This episode of Break/Fix discusses the Green Grand Prix, an event focused on promoting energy-efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles. Guests Robert Gillespie and Jason Kellogg share the history and evolution of the Green Grand Prix, which started 17 years ago. They describe how the event combines education and competition, featuring a road rally and autocross held at Watkins Glen International. The rally, a time-speed-distance event, focuses on maximizing fuel efficiency, while the autocross is for electric and hybrid vehicles. The event aims to engage students in STEM education and familiarizes them with green technologies. The podcast also highlights the importance of smooth driving and consistency for fuel efficiency and discusses potential challenges and strategies for competitors. The hosts emphasize the collaborative effort involving SCCA, educational institutions, and sponsors like Toyota, encouraging listeners to spread awareness and participate.
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00:00 The Green Grand Prix: Mission and Goals
01:04 Origins and Evolution of the Green Grand Prix
04:01 Involvement and Contributions of Key Figures
04:48 Student Participation and Educational Impact
08:24 Event Structure and Competitions
11:48 Vehicle Types and Technical Details
20:50 Getting Involved and Future Prospects
22:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
24:02 Outro and Call to Action
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The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
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Celebrating GTM with PositiveTalkRadio #403 (Crossover) - Kevin McDonald

In this episode of Positive Talk Radio, the host invites Crew Chief Eric, to discuss his deep-rooted passion for cars and his intriguing life journey. Eric shares how his upbringing in a Roman Catholic household, questioning faith, and interest in history shaped his outlook on life. The episode delves into the origin and evolution of his ventures, including Gran Touring Motorsports and the Break/Fix Podcast, which he co-founded in honor of his late father. The discussion covers Eric's mission to document and share stories from the motorsports community, highlighting significant events, inspiring interviews, and charitable efforts. The podcast aims to immortalize the voices and experiences of car enthusiasts, ensuring their legacy continues in the digital age. Key topics include the importance of storytelling, the connections within the motorsports industry, and the personal motivation behind Eric's projects.
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00:00 Introduction to Positive Talk Radio
00:17 Meet Crew Chief Eric and His Passion for Cars
01:43 Eric's Journey: From Faith to History Enthusiast
03:04 The Importance of Storytelling and Legacy
10:01 Growing Up in a Car Culture
13:02 The Birth of the Break Fix Podcast
16:40 Personal Loss and Motivation
18:09 The Evolution of Break Fix Podcast
24:50 Personal Loss and Resilience
25:31 Charity Events and Community Involvement
26:53 Motorsports and Personal Stories
28:12 Podcasting and Networking
30:08 Challenges and Successes in Podcasting
32:35 Celebrating Unsung Heroes
35:11 Connecting the Dots in Motorsports
41:47 Promoting the Podcast and Final Thoughts
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The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
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This episode republished with permission from PositiveTalkRadio Podcast courtesy of Kevin McDonald.

ZF, Drifting Tundras, Baja Adventures & the Shocking Quad Mishap

Jon Summers is The Motoring Historian. He was a company car thrashing, technology sales rep that turned into a fairly inept sports bike rider. Hailing from California, he collects cars and bikes built with plenty of cheap and fast, and not much reliable. On his show, he gets together with various co-hosts to talk about new and old cars, driving, motorbikes, motor racing, and motoring travel.
In this episode, Jon and Mark are joined by Mark Newton to discuss a variety of automotive topics. They delve into personal experiences with different cars and bikes, including a 97 Ford F250, E450 V10 van, and WR450 motorcycles. The conversation also covers motoring travel in Baja California, dog rescue efforts in Mexico, and memories of thrilling motoring adventures. Detailed discussions about NASCAR, Formula One, electric vehicles, and sim racing highlight their shared passion for motorsports. The episode also includes nostalgic stories about classic cars, hot rods, and mechanical repairs, illustrating the trio's vast automotive knowledge and experiences.
Uncle Mark’s Life South of the Border
Ford F250 diesel 4x4 manual
Ford F450 Shortbus
Baja Street Dogs
Buzzed By a Trophy Truck
Yamaha WR 450 and riding in Baja
“Mustangs to Todos”
Argentina bike road trip; heavy vs. light off-road bikes
A Eulogy to Heated Seats and Grips
“Personalities” in modern Nascar
Indy vs. Grosjean
Modern Motorsport and Money
Mark’s 1966 Mustang GT
The Gasser Vision
“The Thing I Most Want Is My Own Stuff To Work”
J’s Pontiac Grand Prix
Mark and J can’t “thin the herd” of their non-functional cars 
Toyota Chinook
Mark’s Mustang SN95 Track car
J’s hypoglycemia
"Quad into an electric fence"
ZF and Fly By Wire Steering - “you can’t get the staff”
Sim Racing Games, pedals and steering setups, VR motion sickness
J’s Mustang SN95 Track car
"A Historian, Not A Mechanic"
Harley-Davidson Fast Johnnie
The Death of the Sportsbike 
Alpine A290
Freightliners
Taycan Turbo S vs. Bullitt Mustang
Eulogy to Steve B, the consummate Ford Guy
Pebble Beach class-winning Bob McGee '32 Model A Roadster
The Cobra Bigblock mule
Crocetti Speciale
Tundras I Have Known
New Cars I Have Bought
Seat Leon Cupra R
Mercedes E63 wagons 
M6 Gran Coupe
Daimler-Benz M156 engine Eulogy
Mark’s Dad’s ‘40 Ford Coupe - “a blown Cad with a La Salle rear end”
The “Business Coupe” explained
Mark’s ex-Police Harley
'80’s Thunderbirds as an Investment
A moment’s silence for J’s Mondeo ST24
Tony Angelo’s Lincoln MkVIII
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The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
More Information: https://www.motoringpodcast.net/
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Copyright Jon Summers, The Motoring Historian. This content is also available via jonsummers.net. This episode is part of the Motoring Podcast Network and has been republished with permission.

Motor Racing as a Mediated Experience: From Le Petit Journal to YouTube

This episode of The Logbook, our History of Motorsports series, focuses on Jon Summers' presentation about motor racing as a mediated experience. Summers, a teaching assistant at Stanford and an automotive historian, traces the evolution of motor racing storytelling from early journalistic efforts and illustrations to contemporary mediums like YouTube and podcasts. He discusses the revolutionary changes in automotive media, highlighting the impact of continuous feeds, real-time social media commentary, and platforms like YouTube, which have become significant archives for racing content. The script also explores the broader cultural impact of these changes, particularly on new generations' perception of motor racing. Summers emphasizes the importance of storytelling in preserving the history and value of the sport. He concludes with a tribute to Fred Simeone and a call to action for fellow historians to continue the legacy of documenting and sharing racing stories.
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The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
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This episode is part of our HISTORY OF MOTORSPORTS SERIES and is sponsored in part by: The International Motor Racing Research Center (IMRRC), The Society of Automotive Historians (SAH), The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Argetsinger Family - and was recorded in front of a live studio audience.

Human in the Machine: Jeff Willis on Cars, Culture, and Connection

In this episode of the Break/Fix, we  interview Jeff Willis, an eclectic car enthusiast, photographer, martial artist, and author of 'Human in the Machine'. Jeff discusses his early influences growing up in Eureka, California, his passion for cars and motorcycles, and his experiences in the automotive world. He shares stories about his diverse vehicle collection, his photography career, and memorable encounters with automotive personalities like Christian von Koenigsegg and Chad McQueen. Jeff also talks about his new book, which explores the connections people have with their cars, featuring interviews with notable figures in the auto industry. The episode highlights Jeff's love for Porsche, the support from his family, and his future plans, including new book projects and a brand to support young racers.
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00:00 Meet Jeff Willis: A Multifaceted Enthusiast
01:17 Jeff's Early Car Memories
02:55 Growing Up in Eureka, California
04:32 Iconic Car Posters and Supercars
06:44 Influence of Jeff's Father and Writing Journey
08:31 Jeff's Porsche Passion and Racing Stories
13:03 Journey into Automotive Photography
14:56 Celebrity Encounters and Hollywood Stories
18:22 Bucket List Interviews and Future Aspirations
20:20 Favorite Car Events and Exclusive Shows
21:34 Hobnobbing with Legends
21:47 The Perfect Event: A Blend of Beauty and Industry
22:54 A Miniature Version at Road Atlanta
23:43 Exploring an Eclectic Car Collection
25:01 The Story Behind the Porsche 928
27:29 Dream Cars: Koenigsegg, Pagani, and More
29:15 The Ugliest Car: A Surprising Choice
29:40 Writing 'The Human in the Machine'
35:19 Advice for Aspiring Writers
38:43 Future Projects and Final Thoughts
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The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
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From Stainless Steel Dreams to Detroit Reality: Tony Vallelunga’s Journey Through Automotive History

This Break/Fix episode hosts an interview with Tony Vallelunga, Senior Director of Manufacturing and Quality at D&G Motors, covering his extensive experience in the automotive industry. The discussion delves into Tony's early fascination with cars, his technical journey in Detroit's automotive sector, and his pivotal role in manufacturing the original DeLorean DMC-12. The episode also explores the complexities of tool and die processes, the challenges of working with stainless steel, and modern advances in automotive manufacturing. Tony reflects on the changing landscape of the industry and shares insights into the ongoing development of a new DeLorean model, emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and educating the next generation through STEM programs.
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00:00 Meet Tony Vallelunga: A Journey in Automaking
02:06 Early Influences and Education
03:23 First Steps in the Automotive Industry
04:12 The Art of Tool and Die
05:52 Challenges in Manufacturing
10:20 Innovations and Modern Techniques
14:24 Reflections on the DeLorean DMC 12
21:34 Body Dyes and Replacement Parts
23:06 Tony's Career Highlights
26:46 Manufacturing the New DMC
28:59 Challenges with Stainless Steel
34:14 Innovative Manufacturing Techniques
38:52 STEM Program and Education
44:53 The DeLorean Legacy Project
45:48 Closing Remarks and Gratitude
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The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
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Built to Win: Inside Garretson Enterprises and the Rise of the Apple 935

In this episode of Break/Fix, we welcome Bob Garretson, a prominent figure in sports car racing during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Bob shares his journey from Southern California, where his passion for cars and racing began under the influence of his older brother, through university, the Navy, and an accidental career start in Silicon Valley. He recalls founding Garretson Enterprises, a notable racing and car service enterprise. Bob recounts his memorable races, including victories at the 12 Hours of Sebring and the 24 Hours of Daytona, and his interactions with legendary racers like Brian Redman and Bobby Rahal. He discusses his experiences with iconic cars such as the Porsche 935 and reflects on his illustrious career and graceful departure from racing. The episode also sheds light on Garretson Enterprises’ legacy, highlighting the camaraderie and unique stories of the Porsche racing community.
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00:00 Bob Garretson's Early Life and Racing Beginnings
04:12 Career Highlights and Challenges
10:55 Garretson Enterprises and Racing Ventures
14:41 The Iconic Apple Car and Racing Stories
17:38 Reflections on the Porsche 935
19:50 Racing Partnerships and Personal Connections
21:48 Memorable Racing Moments with Bobby Rahal
23:01 Racing Legends and Their Stories
24:22 The Competitive Spirit of the 80s Racing Scene
25:23 Innovations and Technical Insights
30:34 Transitioning from Racing to Business
36:36 Reflecting on a Racing Career
38:29 Closing Thoughts and Farewell
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The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
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Morgan Performance Group & GT Celebration (Rob Morgan)

This Break/Fix podcast episode features Rob Morgan, founder of Morgan Performance Group (MPG) and GT Celebration, discussing his journey from a motorsport-enthused childhood to founding a racing series. Morgan shares insights on his early love for cars, his racing career, and the inception and growth of GT Celebration. He emphasizes the series' aim to provide a fun, professionally run racing platform for both new and seasoned drivers, featuring multiple classes like GT3, GT4, Cup, Prototype, and M2. Key topics include the series' structure, class distinctions, BOP (Balance of Performance) approach, race weekend logistics, track selections, and future plans. Co-hosts Crew Chief Eric and Charlie Streicher delve into the unique aspects that set MPG Racing apart from other sanctioning bodies like SRO and IMSA. The discussion also touches on the transition from club to pro racing and the importance of seat time for aspiring drivers.
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00:00 Founding of GT Celebration
01:20 Rob Morgan's Early Life and Racing Beginnings
02:49 Transition to Professional Racing
05:43 Starting True Speed and Business Ventures
08:03 Creating GT Celebration Series
10:04 Technical Aspects and Car Classes
15:27 Race Weekend Structure and Logistics
23:29 Spectator Experience and Future Plans
23:43 Event Costs and Gate Fees
24:50 Hospitality and Community Building
26:16 Track Selection and Challenges
28:59 Series Differentiators and Philosophy
32:58 Driver Classifications and BOP
35:41 Handling Caution Situations
37:12 Future Plans and Growth
39:08 Advice for Aspiring Racers
40:13 Shoutouts and Acknowledgements
41:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
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Drive Thru News #34 - He’s as lost as a 10 millimeter socket!

In Gran Touring Motorsports' (GTM) monthly news episode series, The Drive Thru, Episode 34 features hosts discussing a broad array of automotive, motorsport, and car culture topics. Sponsored by a variety of organizations and businesses like HPDEjunkie.com, Hooked on Driving, AmericanMuscle.com, and many others, this episode covers corrections from previous segments and introduces the primary theme of 'Lost and Found.' Key points include the introduction of a new sponsor, Gray Chevrolet, amusing comparisons between automotive and maritime finds like the Titanic, and notable auction prices of classic cars. It also delves into the latest on affordable sports cars, costly vehicle repairs, and quirky internet car finds. Conversations also venture into significant industry discussions involving electric vehicles, odd insurance repairs, and new technological concepts like e-ink and hydrogen-electric powertrains. The episode wraps up with news about local and national motorsport events, insights into Formula 1, World Rally Championship (WRC), and sports car endurance racing, with a special focus on the upcoming 100th anniversary of Le Mans. Upcoming events, track days, and drive-through antics for the following months are also previewed.
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00:00:00 Welcome to Episode 34
00:00:57 Lost and Found Special
00:03:39 Cheapest 300 Horsepower Cars
00:05:40 Hottest Family Cars of 2023
00:09:34 Best Affordable Sports Cars
00:12:00 Uncollectible Cars
00:21:06 Chip Ganassi's Secret Tunnel
00:32:00 Lost and Found Wrap-Up
00:34:48 Porsche, Audi, and Volkswagen News
00:37:40 A Quick Button Mishap
00:37:51 Future of Transportation
00:38:51 Stellantis Recall Issues
00:42:21 Ford F-150 Lightning Fire Incident
00:44:00 EV Charging Risks
00:47:05 General Motors' New Software Division
00:48:00 EVs on Racetracks
00:55:34 Toyota's Hybrid Manual Supra
01:15:14 Tesla's New Manufacturing Process
01:21:50 Unveiling the 76 Beetle Camaro Hybrid
01:23:05 Gran Turismo Movie: Fact or Fiction?
01:27:57 Electric Vehicles in the Rental Market
01:31:12 Alyssa Milano's Car Controversy
01:33:30 Florida's Tesla Crash and DUI Dog Incident
01:37:17 Formula One Updates and Brad Pitt's F1 Movie
01:46:14 WRC News: Croatia and Portugal Recap
01:52:37 Upcoming Motorsports Events and Announcements
02:01:56 Closing Remarks and Special Mentions
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The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
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