Big Rich Klein - Off-Road Podcast
Hear off-road podcast with conversations with the legacy stars of rockcrawling and off-road. Big Rich interviews the leaders in rock sports.
Jeff Knoll’s Off-Road Journey on Episode 337
Jeff Knoll joins Big Rich to share the winding path that took him from a childhood spent riding motorcycles and dune buggies in Southern California to becoming a major figure in off-road racing and land-use advocacy. Jeff reflects on growing up in Menifee and Glamis, his early experiences at the [...]
Sep
Master Fabber and Rock Bouncing Champion Tim Cameron on Episode 336
In this episode, Big Rich Klein sits down with rock-bouncing champion Tim Cameron, a Tennessee native whose passion for off-road racing began with four-wheelers, Jeeps, and hill climbs. Tim shares how he learned fabrication from Brian Cole and built his first full-tube-chassis buggy, Fat Girl. He discusses the evolution of [...]
Sep
Ski Hall of Famer, Glen Plake talks individuality in sports with Big Rich on Episode 335
Glen Plake joins Big Rich Klein for a wide-ranging conversation about skiing, off-road racing, rock crawling, and the unexpected opportunities that shaped his life. A member of the U.S. National Ski Hall of Fame, Glen reflects on growing up in South Lake Tahoe, learning to ski at age two, and [...]
Aug
Episode 334 features the trusted voice of Keith Purmal
In this episode of Conversations with Big Rich, Big Rich Klein talks with Keith Purmal, a 2025 Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame inductee and one of off-road racing’s most trusted voices. Keith shares stories from growing up in Las Vegas, developing an early interest in electronics and ham radio, and [...]
Aug
(Still) Growing Up Rockcrawling with Lil Charlie Melchner on Episode 333
19-year-old rock crawler and son of off-road legend Big Charlie. Lil Charlie grew up in Carmel, New York, competing in rock crawling events since childhood. Currently pilots a Jesse Haines Moonbuggy in national competitions. Early wheeling at Todd’s property in Pennsylvania began around age 3. Started driving buggies at age [...]
Aug
Robert Keller — From Mud Trucks to Rock Crawling on Episode 332
Robert started in mud trucks around 1998 with coworkers in South Florida. Progressed through multiple vehicles: K10 Stepside on 38-inch Groundhogs, a Jimmy, and eventually a YJ and square-body GMC truck. Attended his first Ultimate Adventure in 2015 (the last pay-to-play year) and was accepted to subsequent trips. Discovered passion [...]
Aug
Building Community Trust with Chad Roy on Episode 331
Chad had a nomadic childhood with nine moves across the US by age 10. Played competitive soccer through college; choosing sports over academics. Family of machinists and farmers influenced hands-on career path. He started as a mechanic, working through transmission and fabrication shops. Became premier Hemi Jeep installer during the [...]
Jul
Marketing entrepreneur and off-road media veteran, Cole Quinnell, on Episode 330
Cole shares his 35-year journey from car enthusiast to magazine editor to automotive marketing business owner. Starting with dirt bikes in the New Mexico desert, he became editorial assistant at Hot Rod Magazine in 1990 before launching 4×4 Power—where he built an entry-level off-road publication alongside Trent McGee and Tori [...]
Jul
Family Guy John Mathews from Auburn Auto on Episode 329
John grew up in Auburn, Washington with a passion for automotive work. He excelled in shop classes and purchased his first car—a 1968 Camaro—at age 14. After high school, he worked at a quick lube shop before joining an automotive repair facility. When the owner retired, John’s parents bought the [...]
Jul
Creating Content for the everyday build, Colt Clewley on Episode 328
Colt Clewley is a YouTuber and off-road enthusiast from Farmington, New Mexico. He runs the channel “Colt Builds It,” creating fabrication tutorials, trail guides, and adventure content focused on making off-roading knowledge accessible to everyone. Colt grew up in tiny Divide, Colorado, worked in the oil field for 18 years, [...]
Jul
Matt Adair on Episode 327: A Life of Off-Road Adventures and Unlikely Friendships
Matt Adair sits down with Big Rich Klein to discuss a life shaped by cars, languages, and the off-road community. Beginning as an exchange student in Germany at 16, Matt’s fluency in automotive passion led him to abandon an Air Force Academy appointment for car sales. What started as a [...]
Jul
In Episode 326, Adam Arsenault gets comfortable being uncomfortable.
In this episode, Adam Arsenault shares his remarkable journey from humble beginnings in North Carolina to becoming a key figure in off-road motorsports. His path spans 20 years in Marine Special Operations, four combat deployments, and a thriving racing career. Adam grew up in Asheville, NC; joined the Marine Corps [...]
Jun
Explore Scott Rehn’s Motorsports Journey on Episode 325
Scott Rehn joins the podcast to discuss his colorful career across multiple motorsports disciplines—from motocross and late-model dirt track racing to short-course off-road, water skiing, Monster Jam, and beyond. Learn how an unplanned career launch led to decades in broadcasting. Scott tried motocross as a teenager but found his true [...]
Jun
The Road to Recovery with YouTube sensation Rory Irish on Episode 324
Rory Irish is the owner of Trail Mater and Moab Motorsports, an off-road recovery operation based in Utah. In this episode, he shares his unconventional path from surveying and pipeline welding in Colorado to becoming a YouTube sensation and industry figure. Rory bounced between Moab, Utah and western Colorado throughout [...]
Jun
Community Builder Cody Folsom on Episode 323
Cody Folsom grew up bouncing between Colorado towns and Texas, attending over 10 schools while working alongside his father in automotive shops. He was introduced to rock crawling through Jason Feuilly and Jimmy’s 4×4, learning the philosophy that completing obstacles mattered more than keeping vehicles pristine—a shock after his dad’s [...]
Jun
Blame it on the Samurai, Thomas Meiser on Episode 322
Thomas Meiser is a rock buggy fabricator and off-road enthusiast from Magna, Utah. Once a competitive baseball player coached by his father, Thomas shifted to fabrication after discovering the Suzuki Samurai at age 16—a pivotal moment that redirected his passion entirely. Early Career Path Thomas worked under influential mentors including [...]
May
From Backyard Bronco to Desert Racing Champion, Nate Williams in Episode 321
In this episode, Big Rich Klein sits down with Nate Williams to explore a life immersed in off-road culture. Growing up in Logan, Utah, Nate caught the bug early—rebuilding a 1975 Bronco at just 15, complete with body work and a custom Chevy engine swap. What started as weekend trail [...]
May
Episode 320 features Fire Captain extraordinaire Chris Mercer
Chris Mercer, a fire captain and body shop manager from Craig, Colorado, shares his journey from a Southern California native to a well-rounded off-roading enthusiast. He discusses his passion for mechanics, competitive four-wheeling, and his goals to become an off-road instructor. Chris grew up immersed in motorsports and outdoor activities [...]
May
Building an Off-Road Empire with Brent Goegebuer on Episode 319
Brent Goegebuer joins Big Rich Klein to discuss a life dedicated to the off-road industry. Raised in rural Washington, Goegebuer’s passion for trucks and the outdoors led him to open his first four-wheel drive shop before age 21, working his way up from a graveyard wire mill shift to corporate [...]
May
Episode 318 features native Kentuckians Kim and Nathaniel Sears, OG East Coast rock crawlers
Early Life & Background Kim and Nathaniel grew up in rural Kentucky, meeting in high school with lockers across the hall from each other. They worked together at a local Winn-Dixie grocery store before college, where Nathaniel pursued psychology and Kim studied occupational therapy. Both eventually moved to the Lexington [...]
Apr
Bronco Dan of Venom Aire joins Rich on Episode 317
Dan Whittington, founder of Venom Aire, shares his journey from mechanics work to pioneering air intake technology. Born in Santa Rosa, California and raised in Salt Lake City’s Cottonwood Heights, Dan developed a lifelong passion for off-roading through family camping trips and motorcycle adventures. After high school, Dan worked at [...]
Apr
Episode 316 features Paul Dilley, off-road entrepreneur, author, and Raptor specialist
Paul’s journey spans car audio, home theater systems, e-commerce, and high-end audio installations during the housing boom. He transitioned to off-road work after joining a Raptor community in 2010, turning hobby expertise into business ventures. Paul started by rebuilding Raptor shocks when demand exceeded Fox’s turnaround time. Developed an exchange [...]
Apr
Innovating From IndyCar to Rock Crawling with Jonas Burnett on Episode 315
This week on Conversations with Big Rich, we dive into the inventive world of fabricator and racer Jonas Burnett. From humble beginnings on a Texas ranch wrenching on a Honda Fat Cat to building engines at 16, Jonas charted a path through the School of Automotive Machinists and into AJ [...]
Apr
OHV Program Manager in the Inyo National Forest, Adam Leidy on Episode 314
This week, Big Rich chats with Adam Leidy, Off-Highway Vehicle and Over-Snow Program Manager on the Inyo National Forest. Adam’s NorCal roots run deep—raised by a forestry biologist, he grew up camping, chasing garter snakes, and logging time in an Isuzu Trooper before wrenching on a K5 Blazer and falling [...]
Apr
Kicking off Season 7 with grit and ingenuity, meet Mike Dieu on Episode 313
Tempe-raised fabricator and spotter Mike Dieu shares a life built on grit, ingenuity, and community. From paper routes and roofing a family home at 15 to becoming an all-state football standout, Mike’s hands-on roots led him into automotive school and early work converting fleets to natural gas. That tech savvy [...]
Mar
Episode 312 with Don Rycroft, founder of RPM Steering
This week, Rich sits down with Arizona native and RPM Steering founder, Don Rycroft, for a candid, high-horsepower story of resilience, faith, and community in off-road. From BMX racing and desert motos to early marriage, entrepreneurship, and a life-reset at 50, Don shares how setbacks forged a family-run brand that’s [...]
Mar
Letzroll OffRoad Founder, Andrew McLaughlin, on Episode 311
This episode dives into the life and legacy of Andrew McLaughlin—builder, racer, event host, and founder of Let’s Roll Off-Road. From a cross-country upbringing to ASU and into the Arizona off-road scene, Andrew shares how a love for the outdoors turned into a lifestyle and multi-faceted career. From the early [...]
Mar
Off-road lifer breaks stereotypes in multi-states, Cameron Chin on Episode 309
Conversations with Big Rich welcomes fabricator, racer, and shop owner Cameron Chin—an off-road lifer who broke stereotypes to build a career around cars. Born and raised in Houston, Cameron cut his teeth on a rough ’67 Mustang, studied studio art at UT Austin, and dove headfirst into off-roading by co-founding [...]
Mar
A Life Steeped in Off-Road Legacy, Josh Hall, on Episode 309
In this episode of Conversations with Big Rich, Josh Hall shares a lifetime of off-road stories shaped by growing up in the iconic Hall family. From pumping gas at his dad’s ARCO stations in Hemet to riding shotgun with the legendary, Bill Stroppe, Josh recounts early Jeep and Bronco days, [...]
Feb
Episode 308 features Jeff Furrier – racer, entrepreneur and preservationist
Big Rich sits down with Tucson native and lifelong off-roader Jeff Furrier—board member of the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame (ORMHOF), racer, entrepreneur, and preservationist of vintage race machinery. From a childhood in a tire-shop family to building UPR into a go-to racing safety and equipment supplier, Jeff shares the [...]
Feb
Navy Vet, Land-Use Warrior, and Indie Author Todd Ockert on Episode 307
This week, Big Rich sits down with Todd Ockert—a 26-year U.S. Navy veteran turned oil-and-gas professional, land-use leader, NAMRAC facilitator, and indie author. From small-town Michigan to Top Gun-era Miramar, Todd shares how vocational electronics led him into Naval aviation, working on EA-6B Prowlers, a rough stint in recruiting, and [...]
Feb
West Virginia State Senator Mark R Maynard talks life, politics and a lifetime in off-road on Episode 305
Mark shares growing up at his family’s Union 76 service station, early Jeeping and Baja Bug adventures, club rides every Sunday, and a childhood shaped by mud, mountains, and motors. State Senator Maynard has a storied history in off-road, including wrenching at NHRA, Gravelrama memories and fighting for expanding OHV [...]
Feb
From Baja Beginnings to the ORMHOF Board, Steve Kelley on Episode 305
Off-road legend and 2021 Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame inductee Steve Kelley joins Big Rich to trace a lifetime in the dirt—racing, rules-making, giving back, and globe-trotting. From his first Baja 1000 in 1969 that hooked him on racing to helping build a Class 11-style VW and taking it 200+ [...]
Jan
Let’s talk history with Ben Hanks in Episode 304
Old-school rock crawler and Utah native Ben Hanks joins Rich to trace his journey from growing up feral in a small, mountain-side town to becoming one of the OG competitors in competitive rock crawling. From first comps in the late ’90s and the rowdy hotel-party era of rock crawling to [...]
Jan
Off-road icon, Casey Currie in Episode 303
Off-road icon, Casey Currie, joins Big Rich to trace a life lived on dirt – from a family compound of builders and racers to Dakar glory and beyond. Casey shares how a tight-knit Currie clan shaped his love for muscle cars, Jeeps and racing. From early JeepSpeed wins and a [...]
Jan
Adventure-seeker Dave Simpson on Episode 302
Big Rich sits down with lifelong off-roader and adventure seeker Dave Simpson to trace a journey that began as a 10-year-old pitting for Malcolm Smith at the 1970 Baja 1000 to now a board member of the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame. Pouring fuel for Malcolm Smith Debuting his own [...]
Jan
The Voice of WE Rock, Tacoma White rings in the new year in Episode 301
This week, Big Rich sits down with WE Rock announcer, longtime off-road advocate and friend, Tacoma White. From small-town New York to Utah’s vast public lands, Tacoma shares how punk rock, skate culture, and a love of tinkering led him into four-wheel drives, land-use battles, and a front-row seat to [...]
Jan
Rubicon Trail advocate, John Arenz on Episode 300
This week, Rich sits down with Rubicon Trail Foundation board member and Rubicon property owner, John Arenz. From high-adventure Scouting and early days as an EMT/paramedic in Oakland to a 30-year fire service career in Emeryville, John shares how the Rubicon became his lifelong anchor—every summer since 1983. This week, [...]
Dec
The Flying Dutchman provides a masterclass in off-road on Episode 299
Big Rich sits down with ORMHOF inductee Dan VandenHeuvel—aka the Flying Dutchman—for a life-in-off-road masterclass spanning 40+ years of racing, building, promoting, and giving back. Listen in for these highlights: First Crandon experience and the DIY beginnings The legendary first race Evolution of safety and tech The rise and reshuffling [...]
Dec
Boats, Baja, and Bolstering the Rebelle Rally with Brian Busby in Episode 298
Big Rich sits down with Brian Busby, the SoCal gearhead who turned a love of speed into a life in racing—and became “the fuel guy” for some of off-road’s biggest events. From San Clemente surf breaks near Nixon’s Western White House to wrenching through ROP, Brian shares how a 16-year-old [...]
Dec
Family, Firsts, and the Evolution of Rock Crawling with Joel Randall on Episode 297
In the finale of Joel Randall’s audiography, Joel and Rich revisit the explosive early-2000s growth of competitive rock crawling and the community that fueled it. Joel shares heartfelt stories of competing with his daughter Kristin in the first Women’s National Rock Crawling Championship, the legendary Vernal controversy with Walker Evans, [...]
Dec
Ready for part two? Joel Randall picks up with a return to Nebraska in Episode 296
From Nebraska farm fields to the forefront of early rock crawling, Joel Randall picks up his story with Big Rich. After a turbulent childhood, Joel lands in Nebraska, builds a ’74 International 4×4, and falls hard for fabrication and off-road life. He dives into mud drags and promoting Midwest mud [...]
Nov
From feral freedom to farm discipline, Joel Randall in Episode 295
This week, Big Rich sits down with Joel Randall, whose path to becoming an OG R-Gang rock crawler started far from ordinary. Pulled from school after third grade, Joel grew up on the move—living in an Airstream behind a 4×4 International Travel-All, camping in Baja and the Tonto, reloading shells [...]
Nov
From Backyard Builds to Baja Wins with Jagged X’s Bill Schueler in Episode 294
Big Rich sits down with Jagged X Off-Road founder Bill Schueler to trace the journey from a Phoenix garage to the front lines of UTV racing and aftermarket innovation. Bill shares how his sons Justin and Brandon turned a high school hobby into Jagged X, the early Rhino craze, and [...]
Nov
Episode 293 with RJ Jackman of the Idaho Vintage Jeep Rally
RJ Jackman of Pocatello, Idaho—flat-fender fanatic, trail leader, writer, and organizer of the Idaho Vintage Jeep Rally. RJ grew up riding dirt bikes with his grandpa’s Simplot-sponsored moto crew, exploring lava fields, caves, and old mines—fueling a lifetime of off-road adventure Event spotlight—Idaho Vintage Jeep Rally – Free, low-friction, three-day [...]
Nov
From Navy Chief to West Virginia’s Country Roads Champion, Jerry Bain on Episode 292
Retired Navy Chief Petty Officer Jerry Bain joins Big Rich to talk adventure, public access, and preserving West Virginia’s unmaintained road network. Jerry shares how high school mud trucks led to a lifelong passion for motorized recreation, a 20-year Navy career seeing 51 countries, and ultimately founding the Country Roads [...]
Oct
Johnny Rocha is all-in on off-road in Episode 291
From SoCal surf breaks to the rocks of Johnson Valley, fabricator, racer, and builder Johnny Rocha shares a lifetime immersed in dirt, water, and horsepower. Johnny grew up riding desert singletrack, surfing with his dad, and turning wrenches young—then parlayed a career in operation engineering into nights and weekends fabricating [...]
Oct
UTV Pioneer Jon Crowley Jr in Episode 290
Big Rich sits down with UTV media pioneer and racer Jon Crowley Jr. to trace his unlikely path from water-ski kid and UCSB computer science grad to one of the most influential voices in the UTV world. Jon shares how a first ride at Sand Mountain hooked him on off-roading, [...]
Oct
West Virginia Wheels with Jack Sloan on Episode 289
Big Rich sits down with West Virginia history buff, Ford fanatic, and long-time off-roader Jack Sloan. From learning to drive in a ‘73 Wagoneer to 22 years with his beloved Ford Explorer “The Raisin,” Jack shares how small-town roots, family campouts, and a love for the hills shaped a life [...]
Oct
Speeding ticket to Slow Jeep to Fast Racecar, Matthew Slyngstad on Episode 288
This week, Big Rich sits down with rising Ultra4 racer Matthew Slyngstad. Born and raised in San Jose, Matthew shares how a teenage speeding ticket steered him into a slow Jeep—and a fast off-road life. From cello and wrestling in high school to wrenching summers in the family construction business, [...]
Oct
Lance Gilbert on Tribe 16, Racing, and Community on Episode 287
In this episode of Conversations with Big Rich, Texas native Lance Gilbert traces his winding path from small-town Keller and church-band guitars to VW shops, GM dealerships, architecture school, homebuilding—and a post-9/11 pivot back to off-road. Lance shares formative years at Sunray Engineering with the late Tom Ellison, a decade [...]
Sep
Chris Holloway has always thrown parties, listen to the progression in Episode 286
In this episode, Rich sits down with Chris Holloway, the founder of the Midwest Overland & Off-Road Expo (MOORE) in Springfield, Missouri. Chris shares his unlikely path from ice cream truck entrepreneur and diesel tech to building one of the Midwest’s premier overland and off-road trade shows. Highlights – From [...]
Sep
Special Land Use Edition: Johnson Valley Airspace Threat in Episode 285
Host Big Rich Klein sits down with BlueRibbon Coalition’s Ben Burr and longtime Johnson Valley advocate Shannon Welch to unpack a fast-moving proposal that could reshape recreation at the Hammers. The U.S. Marine Corps has requested permanent Special Use Airspace (SUA) over Johnson Valley—from the ground up to 8,000 feet—split [...]
Sep
Racing Legacy and Land Speed Records with Danny Thompson in Episode 284
In this episode of Conversations with Big Rich, we dive into the fascinating world of motorsports with Danny Thompson, son of the legendary Mickey Thompson. Danny shares his storied journey from racing quarter midgets at the age of nine to breaking land speed records at Bonneville. As a pillar of [...]
Sep
Special Edition: The Prairie City Solar Project Controversy
Episode Summary: In this special edition of Conversations with Big Rich, host Big Rich Klein dives into a critical issue affecting the off-road community in Northern California. The episode focuses on the contentious solar project proposed by Desri Energy at Prairie City State Vehicle Recreational Area (SVRA) in Rancho Cordova. [...]
Sep
Navigating Off-Road Adventures with Mathew Giltner in Episode 282
In this episode of “Conversations with Big Rich,” host Rich Klein sits down with Mathew Giltner, the executive director of the Nevada Off-Road Association. Mathew shares his fascinating journey from upstate New York to Nevada, detailing his diverse experiences in the Coast Guard, aviation, and the off-road industry. Listen in [...]
Aug
From Street Racing to Rock Crawling: A Journey with Alan Johnson
Join Big Rich Klein as he sits down with Alan Johnson, President of the Rubicon Trail Foundation, in an engaging conversation about his adventurous journey from street racing to becoming a new We Rock rock-crawling competitor. Alan shares his personal history, the influence of his family, and how he transitioned [...]
Aug
Double A Rally Team Angela and Adriana share off-roading insights on Episode 280
In this episode, we delve into the dynamic world of off-roading with Angela Rickerson and Adriana Stovall, two formidable competitors in the Rebelle Rally. Angela, a Seattle native, and Adriana, hailing from California, share their journeys from off-road enthusiasts to competitors in one of the most challenging all-women off-road navigational [...]
Aug
Saxophone slinging Justin Andrews from Warn (and Factor 55) on Episode 279
Join us for an exciting episode of “Conversations with Big Rich” as we dive into the fascinating world of off-road with our guest, Justin Andrews. Known for his dynamic journey in the off-road industry, Justin shares his unique story, from his musical roots to becoming a key player at Factor [...]
Aug
Politics and Off-Road combine on Episode 278 with Roger Salazar
Join Big Rich Klein in an engaging conversation with Roger Salazar, a dynamic figure in the off-road community and a member of the California Off Highway Motor Vehicle Commission. In this episode, Roger shares his journey from a small town in California to the bustling political scene of Washington, D.C., [...]
Jul
Shannon Welch: humble beginnings to influencing land use in Episode 277
In this engaging episode of “Conversations with Big Rich,” host Rich Klein sits down with the dynamic Shannon Welch, a prominent figure in the off-road community. Shannon’s journey from her humble beginnings in Rochester, New York, to becoming a significant influencer in the off-road and land use sectors is highlighted [...]
Jul
Embracing the Off-Road Lifestyle with Tony Barraza of TB Designworks on Episode 276
In this captivating episode of “Conversations with Big Rich,” we dive into the vibrant world of motorsports with Tony Barraza, a passionate designer and long-time enthusiast of the off-road industry. Tony, the creative force behind TB DesignWorks, shares his journey from growing up in a small desert town in Blythe, [...]
Jul
Exploring the Off-Road Journey with Mike Ingalsbee on Episode 275
In this engaging episode of “Conversations with Big Rich,” host Rich Klein sits down with Mike Ingalsbee, a seasoned photographer with a rich history in the off-road industry. Mike, the founder of Mike’s Race Photo, shares his unique journey from growing up in Michigan to becoming a prominent figure in [...]
Jul
Off-road historian, John Elkin, on Episode 274
In this riveting episode of Conversations with Big Rich, host Rich Klein delves into the fascinating world of off-road racing and rallying with the esteemed John Elkin. John, a renowned off-road historian and writer, shares his journey from family adventures in Death Valley to becoming a pivotal figure in off-road [...]
Jul
Episode 273 features Dynamic Entrepreneur, Jim Winn
Welcome to another exciting episode of “Conversations with Big Rich.” This week, Big Rich Klein sits down with Jim Winn, a dynamic entrepreneur with a multifaceted career, whose journey has spanned from professional photography to corporate business, and now, to owning and operating multiple businesses within the off-road industry. Highlights [...]
Jun
Join Zack Grimes and Vintage 4x4s in the Midwest on Episode 272
Join Big Rich as he dives into the off-road lifestyle with Zack Grimes, President of Rally in the Ozarks. This episode explores Zack’s journey from Kansas City to becoming an entrepreneur and rally organizer, while celebrating vintage 4×4 vehicles. Zack shares his passion for Scouts, his career transitions, and the [...]
Jun
The Thrill of Off-Road: Shannon Campbell’s Journey
Join host Big Rich as he dives into the exhilarating world of off-road sports with the legendary Shannon Campbell. In this episode, Shannon shares his journey from a rural upbringing in Arizona to becoming a renowned figure in the off-road industry. From racing at Top Truck Challenge to making a [...]
Jun
Marlin Crawler as told by his son, Mike Czajkowski in Episode 270
So many great stories about a great man! Mike Czajkowski shares stories about his dad, the legendary Marlin Crawler. Don’t miss episode 270! Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 2:10 – People always know when Marlin caught them on the trail, where they met him. 18:28 – [...]
Jun
Sturgis (Kentucky) produced a great racer in Bill Baird.
Adrenalin-junkies unite and listen in to our favorite, Bill Baird. Stunt planes to dirt to asphalt ovals, bill has done so much. Join us for episode 269 and hear Bill’s story!. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 6:33 – Sturgis, KY was the second school in the [...]
May
Episode 268 with Greg McClelland, founder/CEO of Wingshooters.org
We had an opportunity to attend a fundraiser earlier in the year for Wingshooters.org and it impressed me so much, I had to get the founder/CEO on the podcast. Greg McClelland shares his story and how he finds solace in the woods. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast [...]
May
Average-Joe, Jon Larson shares his experiences on Episode 267
Self-described, average trail wheeler, Jon Larson, shares the insights that he’s gained with 25 years of running Cherokees. If you ever wondered how you could get involved in off-road, Jon shares his path. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 5:59 – Dude, did you know that mom [...]
May
Episode 266 with James Patience, ambassador to great causes.
This week’s guest may have a weak connection to off-road, but that string is still attached. James Patience is an ambassador for Bikers Against Bullies and their message is clear – know who you are! I couldn’t think of a better man who knows. Be sure to listen on your [...]
May
The other Dave Chappelle on Episode 265
Dirthead_Dave from the Dirthead Shed joins us for Episode 265. Let’s talk about building cars from hot rods to offroad, Join us and support the other Dave Chappelle. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 4:46 – The off-roading is the one thing that’s stuck and put me [...]
May
Episode 264 with Steve Hastings, rock master
Super spotter, Steve Hastings, was smooth, smooth, smooth. A driver in his own right, he spent a lot of his career as Jason Bunch’s spotter. OG rockcrawler who got started in the 60’s behind the wheel of his dad’s CJ5, Steve has seen a lot of rock. Be sure to [...]
Apr
More Stories, More Jason Bunch, part 2 is Episode 263
Stories so big we need two episodes to tell them! Jason Bunch of Tri-Couty Gear has a storied history and he shares it with us. Rockcrawler, racer, business man, enthusiast, Jason’s been part of the OG crowd. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. Show Notes 7:06 – [...]
Apr
Jason Bunch leads off in Episode 262 with stories galore
Stories so big we need two episodes to tell them! Jason Bunch of Tri-Couty Gear has a storied history and he shares it with us. Rockcrawler, racer, business man, enthusiast, Jason’s been part of the OG crowd. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 4:47 – We’d take [...]
Apr
Kicking off Season 6 with King Randy Slawson
King Randy Slawson kicks off Season 6 of Conversations of Big Rich – that’s episode 261. Hear about the sheltered kid who turned his aggression to the rocks. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 5:49 – I was extremely sheltered, kept away from the world until I [...]
Apr
Season 5 Finale with Tracy Jordan, the GOAT!
Today’s guest is probably the greatest competitive rockcrawler in the history of the sport. Get to know Tracy Jordan and how he became the GOAT! Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 4:22 – everything was around hunting and fishing, it was one-on-one time with our dad 13:46 [...]
Mar
Shock-tuning master, Phil Licciardi joins us on Episode 259
What do you get when you cross a tennis playing, stunt bike rider with a Rock Zombie? Answer: Phil Licciardi, shock-tuning master. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 3:33 – they had the Green Police, I got pulled over for pushing my bike to town, they tried [...]
Mar
Episode 258 features Marine veteran, CEO of Warfighter Made, Rob Blanton
Co-founder and CEO of Warfighter Made, Rob Blanton is a retired Marine serving as a volunteer for his non-profit organization full-time. The mission of Warfighter Made provides recreation therapy to ill, injured and combat wounded service members and veterans. Listen to how and the others got there. Be sure to [...]
Mar
Without Craigslist, John Reynolds may not have found his way to Off-Road in Episode 257
It all began with a Craigslist ad for Josh Reynolds. Today, Josh has taken the reins of Fly-N-Hi Off-Road while continuing to nurture his passion and contributing to the off-road community. The shop, known for its expertise in Jeep modifications and custom builds, has become a hub for enthusiasts looking [...]
Mar
Episode 256 with Visionary Aaron Armstrong
An off-road enthusiast turned competitor, Aaron Armstrong is the man responsible for the WE Rock event site in Bagdad, Arizona. He is a man with a vision. Join WE Rock March 1 and 2, 2025, at the best cul-de-sac in Arizona. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. [...]
Feb
The American Bad-A** Repeats, JT Taylor is back on Episode 255
We last checked in with JT Taylor three years ago, so much has changed. If you saw the announcement of a new race at Area BFE on Big Saturday, you want to listen in for the deets. JT spills it all!. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. [...]
Feb
Brennan Metcalf of Brennan’s Garage on Episode 254
The engineer’s curse is strong with this one. Brennan Metcalf brings all kinds of goodies to the off-road world. Listen in to a fascinating discussion of mods and parts. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 5:40 – One of the last summers I was up there, my [...]
Feb
Episode 253 with UTV Racer Hunter Miller making the run from Dakar to the Hammers
Hunter Miller has come a long way since dirt bikes and ATV’s to CanAms capable of racing Dakar and King of the Hammers. Join us for a great conversation of how a boy progresses from two wheels to four. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 4:44 – [...]
Feb
Trail Guide Extraordinaire, Nick Cimmarusti on Episode 252
Sometimes, you meet a guy and just know he’s the real deal. As genuine as they come, Nick Cimmarusti has carved out a space for himself in off-road. Whether you see him on the trail sharing his knowledge with others, or in the shop doing the same, Nick will never [...]
Jan
Episode 251 features Rory Ward of Racers Only
When you combine art and off-road, you wind up with Rory Ward. A fan since early days, Rory made connections that allowed him to combine his passions and thrive. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 5:37 – my dad would get Hot VWs magazine and I’d always [...]
Jan
Patricia Upton is truly the star of the show in Episode 250
Most of our podcasts are full of stories, but not many cover the globe from end to end. Patricia Upton and her husband, the late Loren Upton, have completed expeditions that most of us only dream about. Patricia is still adventuring. Listen closely, the trips have twists and turns in [...]
Jan
Episode 249 features Gary the Appraiser, Gary Haugley from B and R Buggie
Falling into automotive without a plan, Gary Haugley has made a career of buggies, cars, and off-road. From building to appraising, car show judging and building stories. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 7:52 – I had no clue, no clue what was going on… 13:33 – [...]
Jan
Episode 248 with John Williams, entrepreneur and off-road racer.
Serial entrepreneur, John Williams, owner of Impulse Off Road shares the journey to now, with all the twists and turns. John has had some interesting experiences and is sure to have many more. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 5:08 – our front yard corner was worn [...]
Jan
OneWorks Andrew Paulson, renaissance man on Episode 247
Outdoorsman and Renaissance man, Andrew Paulson can do anything – if he’s interested. In the last fifteen years, we’ve watched Andrew build anything he set his mind to. The stories are fun. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 4:16 – this is why I always fought the [...]
Dec
Lavender Brothers, Toby Lavender on Episode 246
No matter your age, follow your passion. That’s what Toby Lavender has been doing for life. Automotive to hunting, Toby excels at all of it, and he’s not done yet. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 8:15 – I always preach to everybody that real formal education [...]
Dec
Episode 245 with Tim Ryan of the V8 Swap Shop.
The original hot-rod kid is still playing with V-8s; but now he’s taking them off-road. Tim Ryan, owner of the V8 Swap Shop is revving up as your go-to guy. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 3:36 – I got knives pulled on me daily because they [...]
Dec
The PRP Origin story with Aaron Wedeking on Episode 244
From the garage to where it is now, everything happens with hard work and innovation. Aaron Wedeking shares the PRP Origin Story and where they are going now, through the ups and downs and twists and turns. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 9:58 – I did [...]
Dec
Episode 243 with Keri and Paul Porter of Discover 4×4
We love couples that work together. Paul and Keri Porter have been together since high school, now with the kids grown, they’ve dropped into four-wheel drive with a vengeance. Training trips, shows and adventures keep them away from home for more than half the year. Be sure to listen on [...]
Nov
Episode 242 with Jeff Mckinlay, man of experiences.
Jeff McKinlay, a man of experiences, from milking cows to construction; building steel buildings and rockcrawlers. Jeff has the work ethic to knock everyone out of the park; he’s the best at all he has done. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 5:38 – Wrestling was what [...]
Nov
Kelly Davis, founder and new owner of Tuff Country on Episode 241
Tuff Country has been through some changes, from the founding 35 years ago to it’s purchase by a private equity firm to being back in the hands of the founder, Kelly Davis. Kelly shares all the details and what’s coming next. We wish him all the best in his reboot! [...]
Nov
Episode 240 features BRC Director Ben Burr
Blue Ribbon Coalition Executive Director Ben Burr gives the low-down on what BRC needs right now and shows us how we can be successful in our land use fight. It’s a fascinating take on what is going on in the real world. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast [...]
Nov
Chris Ridgway hopping on Episode 239
“I just wanna go fast,” Chris Ridgway. Chris joins us from the road as he’s hauling multi-million-dollar cars all over the US. If it’s got wheels, Chris has raced it, from motorcycles to Porches. Some great stories in here. Be sure to listen on your favorite podcast app. 6:35 – [...]
Oct