Episodes
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Today, Cars That Matter has the great fortune of welcoming on the legendary John Kraman to the show. John is the host of the Mecum Broadcast where he gets to fully represent all the car fans of the world on Motortrend TV.
Robert and Mecum start by chatting (3:50) about how televised car auctions impact the market today. (6:00) Robert reminisces about some of the great sales that he’s seen on the Mecum auction (such as the rare Shelby Daytona Coupe going for 10 million dollars), and asks John to share some of his most memorable auction moments over the years. (9.45) John shares about some of the types of cars that have been the most desirable over the years, and ones that may continue to be. (12:00) Robert and John share about where vintage restoration modding is heading and why it’s such a strong trend right now. (13:30) John chats about how the domestic and international markets are changing with the younger generation entering the scene.
After the break (22:16) Robert asks John if there are any “rules” to being a collector, and John shares some of his best advice yet. (25:00) John shares a story about why the worry of “overpaying” shouldn’t be as big of a deal as people make it. What about bargain hunting? (28:15) John shares some tips on what to look for. (30:15) Robert asks John what he thinks about pre-war cars and where they might be headed. (32:45) Mecum is also involved in motorcycle sales and is one of the worlds largest sellers via auction. John shares about Mecum selling not only cars and motorcycles but all sorts of different categories of vehicles and the great success Mecum has had with them as they approach the infamous 1 Billion dollar checkpoint in total sales. (35:20) Finally, Robert asks John a bit about himself and how he got into the hobby of car collecting.
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Cars That Matter is back with a special episode. On this week’s show, Robert chats with long time competition judge and owner of Bobileff Motorcar company Gary Bobileff. Gary specializes in Italian car restoration and is one of the leaders in the country for his custom work.
Gary and Robert start off (1:50) chatting about their recent trip judging at the Las Vegas Concours d’Elegance at the Wynn and how this event is uniquely positioned to be a future top car event for many years to come. (6:00) Gary shares the intricacies and methodology of modern day judging for some of the best car shows in the world. (11:20) Robert asks Gary about the intimate relationship between serving a customers restoration wants while also preserving the sensitive value of a car and it’s original design. (15:08) Are previously restored cars coming back for restoration many years down the line?
After the break (17:20) Gary and Robert discuss the difficult road ahead in finding Italian car restoration workers in the US given the landscape of the job. (18:50) Gary dives into his love of the Lamborghini Miura and why he has positioned himself as the perennial expert in restoring said vehicles. (25:10) Robert asks Gary what his favorite Italian cars are to drive, and Gary shares some of the best for different occasions. (29:09) Gary and Robert talk about one of Gary’s favorite projects in restoring the prototype rolling chassis Miura that was presented at the Turin Auto Show and some of the unique obstacles it presented.
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Missing episodes?
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After Robert introducing the panel of guests, Robert asks Derek to describe what it was really like to drive in Le Mans in the 1970s (3:20). Then Marshall explains how the film came to be (6:15) and Jay dives into the intertwined histories of the movies and the 917 (7:17). Then Robert puts the conversation into high gear by asking what making the movie was actually like (8:41).
Then Robert asks what Steve McQueen was like as a person (13:14), the parallels to reality in the film (19:05), and Derek shares the times when the film got a little 'too real' (21:16). Lastly, Robert brings up the product placement prevalent in the film (25:07), Marshall shares the impact the movie had on McQueen (30:53), and then the guests consider the impact the film had on car culture as a whole.
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After Robert justifies an entire episode about motorcycles, he introduces Bobby Haas and Stacey Mayfield and asks them to detail their museum (1:59), its stunning collection (6:57), and how they go about commissioning custom bikes (13:14).
Following a short break, Robert redirects the conversation into "Leaving Tracks," Haas and Mayfield's new documentary: how it came to be (18:37), the people involved (23:43), and how the film examines the unique 'brotherhood' between bikers (29:14). Then, Robert circles back to discuss how Bobby came to be where he is in life (39:50), his time as an aerial photographer (43:03), and how his relationship to Stacey ultimately changed his life for the better (47:42).
https://www.haasmotomuseum.com/
https://www.gentlemansride.com/------------------
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After a brief introduction, Robert asks Alex to detail the recent founding of Automobili Estrema (1:46) and how he got involved with Fulminea and what the vehicle is designed to be (3:22). Then Robert and Alex share their thoughts on the rapid embracing of electric vehicles (13:53).
After a short break, Alex details when the car will come to market and what he thinks the future of cars will be (23:49). Finally, Alex shares how he got into design (30:22), found his way through Mercedes-Benz and BMW (33:52), and pioneered a designer program (43:21).
https://fulminea.com/
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After introducing Marlon, Robert asks about the origins and goals of the company (1:26) before diving into some specific models Robert had seen in Marlon's workshop (6:41). Then, the two men dig into the details of the engines and how Marlon approaches his work on those parts of the automobiles (13:22).
After a short break, Robert asks Marlon to explain the torque and suspension in Marlon's latest Porsche update (18:58). Robert praises Marlon's beautiful and unique interiors (21:32), and then Marlon dissects exactly what makes Workshop 5001's take on cars original and honorific of the original vehicles (25:23). Lastly, Robert and Marlon share their thoughts on the current Porsche community (30:24) before wrapping up with Marlon's opinion on the electrification of Porsches (34:02).
Learn More: https://workshop5001.com/------------------
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In honor of Memorial Day, Robert Ross re-examines the origins of Jeep--a vehicle that ultimately turned the tides of WW2 for America. By delving back into interviews with author Paul Bruno and Director Head of Design for Jeep, along with a new interview with Randall Withrow of the U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum (which houses an impressive collection of Jeeps used in the U.S. military, including the oldest surviving Jeep, the Ford Pygmy), Robert unpacks the underdog story of where Jeep came from and where it's going.
Episode Timestamps:Prologue (0:00) - Robert introduces this very special episode examining the origins of Jeep and its pivotal role in WWII by considering where the name 'Jeep' actually came from.
Past (3:39) - Paul Bruno, author of ‘Project Management in History: The First Jeep’ and ‘The Original Jeeps,’ explains the unlikely origins of the first models of Jeep--made with minimal time in a period of national crisis.
Present (16:17) - Randall Withrow of the U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum explains what has been done to honor and preserve Jeeps since WWII and explains how the museum came to have its collection--including the original Ford Pygmy, which is a part of the National Register of Historic Vehicles.
Future (29:06)- Mark Allen, Director Head of Design at Jeep explains how the past designs inform the present and what the company has in mind for the future, as the brand growing into a worldwide name.
Epilogue (36:28) - Robert muses on how such a small and simply made car could have impacted the world so greatly.
Special thanks to Casey Maxon and the Historic Vehicle Association.
Learn More:
https://memorialmuseum.org/jeep.com
https://originaljeeps.com/
https://www.hagerty.com/drivers-club/my-garage/78598943/national-historic-vehicle-register
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After introductions, Robert asks Mark to delve into the origins of Jeep as a brand and how it was 'sold' to Americans following WWII (1:07). Then Mark drills down into how Jeep upholds the 'authentic' reputation it's had since its creation (3:35), how new designs must pay tribute to its past (6:52), and how the brand new 2021 Wagoneer continues that tradition (13:13).
After a short break, Mark shares how Bronco's competition could expand Jeep's consumer base (17:34) and Robert asks for Mark's opinions on where Jeep is going in the future (22:28). Then Robert has Mark explain the origins of the Jeep Gladiator (25:55). Then, Robert digs into the interesting colors of Jeep (28:12) and Mark explains how his career led him to Jeep (31:02)
Learn More: Jeep.com
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Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick
A CurtCo Media production
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After introducing Tim, Robert asks Tim to explain what make M1 Concourse so special and the events that will be held there (21:20), including by focusing on the Woodward Dream Cruise and Show (4:41). Then detours to discuss their own personal relationship as it has related to cars over the years (6:36), before asking Tim to consider the difference between the CA car community and the Detroit car community (12:59).
Then Tim shares details about an event he has created called the American Speed Festival (16:32). After a quick break, Tim considers the future of car collecting with the next generation (21:15). And finally, Robert turns the tables on Tim to find out how he got into cars and what his top three cars might be (28:46).
Learn More:
https://m1concourse.com/
https://americanspeedfestival.com/
https://woodwarddreamshow.com/
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Hosted by: Robert Ross
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Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick
A CurtCo Media production
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Jim Marietta and Ted Sutton, members of the Original Venice Crew, join to discuss their time working with Carroll Shelby, Ken Miles, Peter Brock, and Phil Remington, and the purpose of their new company and the cars they seek to create and preserve.
Robert picks up where they left off and Jim explains the origins of The Original Venice Crew and how their designs came directly from the original designers and drivers (0:33). Then Jim shares the continuation cars the OVC are making today and how uniquely qualified their team truly is (7:44).
After a short break, Jim talks about the process of restoring cars into quality 'art pieces' (9:52). Then Robert asks what designs weren't able to be developed until the OVC came along (12:39) and Jim explains the different purpose of OVC continuation cars over many other OEMs (17:07). Then, Jim, Ted, and Robert discuss the 'nuts and bolts' of the engine (21:44) and Jim shares why and how the OVC produces clothing and designer apparel (25:30).
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Jim Marietta and Ted Sutton, members of the Original Venice Crew, discuss their time working with Carroll Shelby, Ken Miles, Peter Brock, and Phil Remington, and the purpose of their new company and the cars they seek to create and preserve.
Robert introduces Jim and Ted (0:39) and Jim explains 'who' the Original Venice Crew is and what they do (1:04). Then, Ted shares the story of how he got hired by Carroll Shelby and some of his time working in his shop (5:14) before Jim shares his own unlikely story of how he became a member of the team (9:58).
After a quick break, Ted shares even more stories of his time working with the likes of Shelby, Miles, Brock, and Remington (13:08). and his unique role in developing the 427 Cobra (16:36). Then Jim insists Ted share the story of Carroll Shelby taking Ted for a ride (22:05). Then, Ted explains the importance of the Daytona Couple being a part of the Historic Vehicle Association's National Register (25:30).
Part 2 of the conversation will be released next week!
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Hosted by: Robert Ross
Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter
Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick
A CurtCo Media production
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This week, we revisit a "Classic" Episode of Cars That Matter: Conversations with Carroll Shelby. In anticipation of next week's guests, who knew and worked with Shelby, Robert shares previously unheard conversations recorded eight years apart, introducing you to the man behind the legend and reviewing his place in history.
Episode Notes:
0:05 - Prologue - Robert explains the importance and purpose of revisiting these recordings.
1:35 - Introducing Carroll - Robert shares the background and history of Carroll Shelby before explaining why and how the recordings were made.
8:06 - 2002 Interview - In Robert's first interivew, Shelby talks about his achievements, his designs, and the current state of the industry.
29:32 - 2010 Interview - In Robert's final interview, Shelby looks back on his life and career and ponders what lessons are worth keeping.
49:58 - Epilogue - Robert wraps up the episode by considering what we can learn from Shelby.------------------
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Hosted by: Robert Ross
Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter
Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick
A CurtCo Media production
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After some introductory banter, Robert dives into what Hagerty Insurance does (2:22). Then, McKeel shares a story of how he realized he should take his company to the next level by introducing initiatives for the next generation of car collectors (5:01). Then McKeel shares the different ways that children can interact with cars--ways no generation has been able to experience it before (12:49). Then Robert takes a moment to discuss the magazine produced by Hagerty and its unique approach car reporting (14:17).
Then, Robert asks McKeel to explain what he is firsthand witnessing with the next generation of car collectors (22:14), the purpose of vintage car-sharing (25:41), and Hagerty's involvement in larger-profile car events (28:28). Lastly, McKeel shares what cars are sparking enthusiasm in the current group of car collectors (37:59), predicts how electric vehicles will affect collectible cars (40:22), and shares some personal stories behind his most favorite vehicles that he's ever owned (43:26).
RELATED EPISODES:
Diane Parker and The HVA
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/39-diane-parker-and-the-historic-vehicle-association/id1485928924?i=1000498776283
Paul Bruno and The Original Jeeps
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/42-paul-bruno-and-the-original-jeeps/id1485928924?i=1000501582017------------------
Learn More: Cars That Matter
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Hosted by: Robert Ross
Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter
Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick
A CurtCo Media production
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After introductions, Robert and Dustin begin by discussing the road trip he recently completed in the 2021 VW ID.4 (0:57), what the ID.4 means to Volkswagen (4:10), and the benefits that come from owning an electric vehicle and what makes the ID.4 different (7:07). Then Robert asks Dustin to explain VW's longterm objectives for EV models (11:41) and how the car's marketing differs between the US and the rest of the world (13:14).
After a short break, Dustin explains the production and use of batteries in EVs (15:23), what the strategy is for having people switch to EVs (17:36), and how the technology will be shared with other brands related to VW and how EVs might evolve into autonomous driving (21:32). Finally, Robert digs into Dustin's own history with cars and his favorite automobiles (25:28).
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Hosted by: Robert Ross
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Eddie jumps straight back into the conversation by asking about Robert's fascination with watches and analog vs. digital (0:35) before digging into what makes a car 'matter' to Robert (3:04). Then Robert shares his regrets over the current 'grill wars' on the road and the loss of honest design in automobiles (5:30).
Then Eddie asks Robert where he thinks the automotive landscape is heading with electric vehicles (8:28), then Eddie brings up the subject of cars becoming a decorative element in homes in the future (11:25), and Robert shares his advice on life and cars (14:30). Finally, Robert shares his memories of Carrol Shelby (21:12) and Robert explains the importance of authenticity (25:13).
Related Episodes:
"Cars That Matter" with Eddie Sotto and, guest, Robert Ross: Part 1
Eddie Sotto of Sotto Studios: Part 1
Eddie Sotto of Sotto Studios: Part 2Conversations with Carrol Shelby
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Hosted by: Robert Ross
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After introducing Robert, Eddie asks Robert to detail where his passions originated in his childhood (2:43). Then Eddie and Robert consider the value and purpose of collections and how one approaches them (4:23) before finding out where his early interest in cars came from (7:46) and touching on Robert's art degree and how it ties into his overall passions (10:23).
After a short break, Eddie asks Robert to explain how he turned his artistic passions turned into employment and automotive writing (13:58). Then Robert explains what makes good automotive writing to him today (21:28), shares the unique approach of his company, RossMadrid (23:48), and then muses on the future of luxury (30:29).
Next week, we'll be releasing Part 2 of this conversation, where Robert explains his thoughts on the importance of automotive collecting!
Related Episodes:
Bert Voet and "Carchitecture: Houses with Horsepower"https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/57-bert-voet-and-carchitecture-houses-with-horsepower/id1485928924?i=1000513910075
Eddie Sotto of Sotto Studios: Part 1
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/16-eddie-sotto-of-sotto-studios-part-1/id1485928924?i=1000474949649Eddie Sotto of Sotto Studios: Part 2https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/17-eddie-sotto-of-sotto-studios-part-2/id1485928924?i=1000475666915
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Hosted by: Robert Ross
Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter
Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick
A CurtCo Media production
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Following introductions, Robert asks Bert to reveal some details of how his book, Carchitecture: Houses with Horsepower, came together (1:30). Then, Robert dives into some chapters, photographs, and cars that caught his attention, including 'Classical Gas' (4:03) and a rare BMW 502 called the 'Baroque Angel' (5:43). Bert and Robert muse on how the twentieth century had to adapt to the automobile (7:06) before turning the conversation towards French design in both cars and buildings (11:55). Then, Bert explains why Saab is considered 'the architect's car' (14:06). After a short break, the two men discuss the book's chapter 'Brutal Power' (16:55), then switch focus to Frank Lloyd Wright's love of automobiles (21:14). Finally, Bert shares some of his favorite cars and fondness for people who have owned their cars for a very long time (25:44).
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Hosted by: Robert Ross
Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter
Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick
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After introducing Charlie Randall, Robert asks how Charlie got started at McIntosh Labs and how the company has changed over his time there (1:44). Then, Charlie shares McIntosh's partnership with Jeep on the upcoming release of their re-launched Wagoneer (5:05). Robert and Charlie discuss the pros and cons of working with car audio (8:52) and some of the other brands McIntosh Group is collaborating with in sound for automobiles (10:44). Charlie also shares his thoughts on the future of audio reproduction (12:51).
After a quick break, Robert asks Charlie to share his own car interests (18:10) and then gives a few rapid-fire questions to nail down Charlie's personal tastes (21:25). They wrap up their conversation with Robert asking Charlie to reveal what's in store for McIntosh (27:46).
Learn More: https://www.mcintoshlabs.com/
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Hosted by: Robert Ross
Produced and Edited by: Chris Porter
Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick
A CurtCo Media production
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Robert Ross is joined (virtually) by Sam Fiorani to discuss the disruption of electric vehicles, the global market shift into trucks and SUVs, and the future of the car collector industry at large.
After introductions, Robert asks Sam to share how he ended up at AutoForecast Solutions (1:08) and exactly what they do (2:30). Then Robert shifts gears to deep dive into the topic of electric vehicles and their impact on the car market (4:08).
After a short break, the two men review the shift of popularity from cars to trucks and SUVs (14:49) and the unexpected factors to consider when reviewing the global car market, including China (17:08), and discuss the changing landscape for car manufacturers (20:41). Finally, Sam shares some of his biggest influences (25:12) and answers the question of what cars could be found in his dream garage (29:55).
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Hosted by: Robert Ross
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Theme Music by: Celleste and Eric Dick
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Robert Ross is joined again (virtually) by Rich Truesdell and Mark Fletcher to finish their conversation about the history, design, and impact of the American Muscle Car on automotive history.
Robert gets things going right away by asking Rich and Mark what muscle cars they'd each put in their imaginary garages--which yields some surprising answers (0:31). Then Robert asks the two authors to detail the history of the hemi engine and how that translates into the collector market (11:30) and Rich introduces the topic of cars that were owned by soldier's who never returned from Vietnam and the importance of telling those stories (14:58).
Then, Robert asks Rich and Mark to share some of their surprising finds while researching the book (23:57) and to speculate a bit on the future of muscle cars and the automotive industry entire (28:43). Finally, the authors share where you can find them and their writings (30:37).
If you pre-order Rich & Mark's book now through the March 30th publication date, you can get a set of classic muscle car images. Details are here: https://www.quartoknows.com/blog/quartodrives/1970-maximum-muscle-pre-order-get-free-bonus-content.
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Hosted by: Robert Ross
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