The Creative Drive

In this episode of Creative Drive, we sit down with Mazen Fawaz, Chief Strategy Officer at Singer Vehicle Design—the company redefining what a Porsche can be. Singer is certainly not about horsepower, lap times, or chasing records. It’s about something far more obsessive: beauty, craftsmanship, and the driving experience. Our host Taro Koki and Maz speak about.. What actually makes a Singer different Why they don’t care about being the fastest The reality of building cars at extreme quality How Singer went from 5 cars… to years-long waitlists The future of Willow Springs International Raceway and why it matters for car culture We also dive into the business behind Singer, the challenges of manufacturing at a boutique scale, and what it takes to build a brand that enthusiasts truly believe in. Singer is about how cars, culture, design, and obsession come together to create something timeless. https://offers.racer.com/subscribe for RACER+ and magazine offer! Follow https://www.instagram.com/singervehicledesign Follow RACER on YT: https://www.youtube.com/@Racer.HQ Follow RACER.Podcasts on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.podcasts   Follow RACER.HQ on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.hq/ Follow RACER Network on IG:   https://www.instagram.com/ racer_network   Follow host Taro Koki on IG:https://www.instagram.com/tarokoki99/ 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your fellow car enthusiasts. #singervehicledesign #porsche #willowsprings #RACER #CreativeDrivePodcast  #CarCulture     

In this special episode of Creative Drive, we sit down with Tatsuru Ichishima, the founder of Spoon Sports — one of the most iconic names in the world of Honda tuning and JDM car culture. Ichishima-san started SPOON in 1988 with a simple philosophy: make Honda cars faster without sacrificing reliability. What began as grassroots racing and homemade parts eventually became a globally respected tuning brand known for its distinctive blue and yellow race cars and legendary Honda performance engines. In this conversation, recorded in Tokyo, we dive deep into the history of SPOON and the early days of Japanese car culture. Topics in this episode include: • The early days of racing Honda production cars • How SPOON began as a small race program • The rise of Honda tuning culture in the 1980s and 1990s • Why endurance racing shaped SPOON’s engineering philosophy • How SPOON engine kits spread around the world before the internet • The unexpected role of the Macau Grand Prix in growing the brand globally • The origins of SPOON’s famous blue and yellow color scheme • Thoughts on the future of car culture and motorsports From racing motorcycles in the 1970s to building one of the most respected performance brands in the world, Ichishima-san shares the story behind a company that helped define the golden era of Japanese tuning. If you love Honda, JDM history, racing, and automotive entrepreneurship, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Subscribe for more conversations with the creators shaping car culture. Listen to Creative Drive on all podcast platforms https://offers.racer.com/subscribe for RACER+ and magazine offer! Follow https://www.instagram.com/roundcatgarage/ Follow RACER on YT: https://www.youtube.com/@Racer.HQ Follow RACER.Podcasts on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.podcasts   Follow RACER.HQ on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.hq/ Follow RACER Network on IG:   https://www.instagram.com/ racer_network   Follow host Taro Koki on IG:https://www.instagram.com/tarokoki99/ 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your fellow car enthusiasts. #spoonsports #typeone #honda #jdm #RACER #CreativeDrivePodcast  #CarCulture      Website: racer.com

In this episode of the Creative Drive, we talk with Mickey Andrade about finally entering the Skyline world after years of admiration, starting not with an R34, but with an R32 — and how a business acquisition helped kickstart a serious JDM collection. We dive into: • The surreal feeling of seeing R34s legally in the U.S. • Starting a Skyline journey with the R32 • Why every car in the collection is white • The influence of Japanese car culture icons like Taniguchi • The inspiration behind building a monochromatic car collection From spending some time in Japan to building a stateside collection, this conversation is about influence, aspiration, and how early 2000s JDM culture leaves a permanent mark. Because sometimes it’s not just about owning the car — it’s about honoring the vision that inspired you in the first place. https://offers.racer.com/subscribe for RACER+ and magazine offer! Follow https://www.instagram.com/roundcatgarage/ Follow RACER on YT: https://www.youtube.com/@Racer.HQ Follow RACER.Podcasts on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.podcasts   Follow RACER.HQ on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.hq/ Follow RACER Network on IG:   https://www.instagram.com/ racer_network   Follow host Taro Koki on IG:https://www.instagram.com/tarokoki99/ 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your fellow car enthusiasts. #throtl #roundcatgarage #skyline #gtr #RACER #CreativeDrivePodcast  #CarCulture     

Zack Klapman, co-host of The Smoking Tire and host of the RACER Creator Awards, joins The Creative Drive podcast to talk all things cars, moving to LA from Colorado to be on TV and the evolution of automotive content. In this episode, Zack shares: How his writing and podcasting career prepared him to host shows and tackle press cars How Tom Segura helped triple their revenue Interviewing Steve Dinan, Gale Banks and Jerry Seinfeld Wild experiences with Hagerty Rated, riding shotgun with FD champion Dai Yoshihara The hardest cars to review (fast wagons, M5 Touring, GT3 RS) and dream cars that would “bankrupt you emotionally” King of the Hammers behind-the-scenes: rock crawling, RV towns, nighttime madness, and total chaos Matt and Zack are going racing with Cleetus McFarland in the Freedom 500 Insights into LA car culture, creator & brand trends, and the cars that are “boostin’ it” right now From laughs to lessons, Zack dives deep into creative drive, car culture, and extreme motorsports — giving you a candid look at what fuels him as a creator in the automotive world. https://offers.racer.com/subscribe for RACER+ and magazine offer! Follow https://www.instagram.com/directorlukeh/ Follow RACER on YT: https://www.youtube.com/@Racer.HQ Follow RACER.Podcasts on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.podcasts   Follow RACER.HQ on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.hq/ Follow RACER Network on IG:   https://www.instagram.com/ racer_network   Follow host Taro Koki on IG:https://www.instagram.com/tarokoki99/ 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your fellow car enthusiasts. #RACERCreatorAwards #RACER #CreativeDrivePodcast  #CarCulture     

Director Luke Huxham joins Creative Drive for a wide-ranging conversation shaped by nearly two decades living and working in Japan. From street drifting and underground scenes to large-scale cultural events, Luke shares an insider’s view of how Japanese car culture has evolved—and why it’s far from fading. The episode digs into Luke’s path through automotive filmmaking, documenting builders and drivers, and eventually creating his own events that spotlight culture as much as cars. He talks candidly about the realities of organizing Japan Car Week, collaborating with long-standing community figures, and building spaces that give both creators and car owners something new to experience. Luke also opens up about the mindset required to pursue bigger creative swings, including feature films, in an industry where there’s rarely room for permission. If you don’t believe you can do it, he says, step aside—someone else is ready to try. This episode is about conviction, community, and why car culture continues to thrive when people are willing to put in the work. https://offers.racer.com/subscribe for RACER+ and magazine offer! Follow https://www.instagram.com/directorlukeh/ Follow RACER on YT: https://www.youtube.com/@Racer.HQ Follow RACER.Podcasts on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.podcasts   Follow RACER.HQ on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.hq/ Follow RACER Network on IG:   https://www.instagram.com/ racer_network   Follow host Taro Koki on IG:https://www.instagram.com/tarokoki99/ 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your fellow car enthusiasts. #RACERCreatorAwards #RACER #CreativeDrivePodcast  #CarCulture  

In this episode, we sit down with George Tamayo, Creative Director at RACER Studio, to uncover what goes into shaping the identity of a brand like Racer. George shares his perspective on redefining the Racer brand and the importance of storytelling in bringing its essence to life. We dive into what it means to tell a brand’s story authentically, why it’s both essential and challenging, and how to find the unique layers that make a brand resonate. With a background as a writer and creative visionary, George explains the balance between social media’s quick takes and journalism’s depth. We also tackle the hot topic of AI in the creative field—where it’s headed and its potential role in brand development. George reflects on some of his most rewarding projects, from revitalizing brands to developing creative assets under tight timelines. Plus, he offers insights on navigating the tougher projects and lessons learned along the way. Tune in for an engaging look at the art and strategy behind brand storytelling in today’s fast-evolving creative landscape.

We dive into the world of Drive to Survive with Will Buxton as Taro Koki sits down to discuss the hit series that’s transformed Formula 1's global appeal. They touch on everything from how Will got started with Drive to Survive, the nuances of filming F1 drivers, and the challenges of balancing new fan expectations with traditional F1 culture. We cover the surprising travel hotspots on the F1 circuit, and what it’s like interacting with drivers after highlighting their moments on screen. The good and bad of social media, the nuances of connecting with both US and global fans, and Will's unique journey that inspired the New York Times bestselling book GRAND PRIX: An Illustrated History of Formula 1. Plus, Taro and Will dive into the latest on the racing scene: Does Lando have a shot at unseating Max? Could Lewis return to the top? And who’s looking promising as the next big name in F1? Tune in for an insider’s take on the creative process, life on the F1 circuit, and the evolution of Formula 1 fandom worldwide.

In this episode of Creative Drive, we sit down with award-winning motorsport photographer Jamey Price to explore what it takes to freeze speed, emotion, and intensity in a single frame. From F1 paddocks to IMSA and WEC endurance races around the world, Jamey shares his journey into motorsports photography, his creative process under pressure, and what it's like living life behind the lens on the global racing circuit. 📸 Topics we cover: How Jamey got his start in racing photography Techniques for shooting motion, emotion, and pure chaos Life on the road, favorite tracks, and staying creatively sharp How social media and the creator economy are changing photography What it’s really like shooting inside Formula 1 Advice for aspiring motorsport creatives If you love racing, storytelling, or photography—this one’s for you. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share. Follow RACER on YT: / @racer.hq Follow RACER.Podcasts on IG: / racer.podcasts Follow RACER.HQ on IG: / racer.hq Follow RACER Network on IG: / racer_network Follow host Taro Koki on IG:https://www.instagram.com/tarokoki99/ #JameyPrice #CreativeDrive #MotorsportPhotography #F1 #EnduranceRacing #CarCulture #RACER #DriveToSurvive

Michael Alan Ross is an automotive author, photographer and filmmaker. His recent book Porsche Outlaws Stuttgart Hot Rods is a visually captivating book that dives into the subculture of Porsche enthusiasts who defy convention. The book celebrates the creativity and individuality of those who modify classic Porsche cars, turning them into unique "outlaws." Featuring stunning photography by Ross and stories of these passionate builders, the book explores the craftsmanship, innovation, and rebellious spirit that define this niche of automotive culture. It showcases a range of customized Porsches, from subtly enhanced to radically reimagined, offering readers an intimate look at the artistry and engineering behind these iconic machines. #porsche #outlaw #hotrod #CarCulture The Creative Drive is a podcast hosted by Racer’s Creator Network President Taro Koki, dedicated to exploring the world of creativity within the automotive industry. Each episode features conversations with a diverse range of creatives, including YouTubers, directors, authors, designers, builders, and photographers, as well as industry journalists and creator economy experts. Together, we delve into what drives these creators, how they got started, their creative process, their inspirations, and their insights on building an audience in today’s digital landscape. From stories of success to overcoming setbacks, The Creative Drive offers listeners a candid look into the minds of automotive creators and their journeys. Make sure you subscribe and like this video and follow us on Instagram @Racermag too! Leave your comments or feel free to email us at podcasts@racer.com.  #thecreativedrive #racerpodcasts 

In this podcast interview, we dive deep into the mind of Chris Stewart, the visionary founder of GRIDLIFE, the one-of-a-kind motorsports and music festival. From its grassroots beginnings in 2013 to becoming a cultural phenomenon, GRIDLIFE has redefined what it means to experience racing, music, and community. Chris's upbringing and the inspiration behind creating GRIDLIFE. The unique blend of motorsports and music — where Time Attack meets EDM.The philosophy behind GRIDLIFE and its focus on sportsmanship. How GRIDLIFE engages a diverse audience of motorsports enthusiasts and music fans. Chris’s vision for the future of GRIDLIFE and its lasting impact on motorsports culture. Whether you're a car enthusiast, a music lover, or someone curious about the intersection of these two vibrant worlds, this conversation offers an inside look at how GRIDLIFE is breaking boundaries and creating a movement. 👉 Follow GRIDLIFE: Website: grid.life Instagram: @gridlifeofficial YouTube: GRIDLIFE The Creative Drive is a podcast hosted by Racer’s Creator Network President Taro Koki, dedicated to exploring the world of creativity within the automotive industry. Each episode features conversations with a diverse range of creatives, including YouTubers, directors, authors, designers, builders, and photographers, as well as industry journalists and creator economy experts. Together, we delve into what drives these creators, how they got started, their creative process, their inspirations, and their insights on building an audience in today’s digital landscape. From stories of success to overcoming setbacks, The Creative Drive offers listeners a candid look into the minds of automotive creators and their journeys. Make sure you subscribe and like this video and follow us on Instagram @Racermag too! Leave your comments or feel free to email us at podcasts@racer.com.  #thecreativedrive #racerpodcasts #sema #GRIDLIFE #musicfestival  

Fresh off her monumental win of the 2025 Women in Motorsports MX-5 Cup Scholarship, 19-year-old Charlotte Traynor joins The Creative Drive podcast from the PRI Show! Charlotte opens up about her unconventional journey into racing—from a family of pilots to a competitive gymnast—and the moment she knew a race car was her calling. She details how a chance encounter led her to the Mazda MX-5 Cup, a highly competitive and strategic series under the IMSA banner. This episode dives into: - What the $100,000 scholarship means for her 2026 season in the Mazda MX-5 Cup. - Dealing with the pressure of racing, battling imposter syndrome, and finding resilience after hearing from trailblazers like Lynn St. James. - Her dedication to intense physical training in the Arizona heat and professional sim racing to achieve her ultimate goal of racing a prototype car in the WeatherTech Championship. - Why she is committed to sharing her real, unvarnished story with fans to break the "robot" race car driver mold and inspire the next generation. - Her drive to become the first female driver to win a Mazda MX-5 Cup race. Follow Charlotte Traynor's journey: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlottetraynor_ - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@charlottetraynor37 - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@charlottetraynor_ To learn more about Mazda: https://bit.ly/4ax7TrK #racer #podcast #creativedrive #mazda #mx5cup #motorsport #autoracing #charlottetraynor #tarokoki

Join us on Creative Drive as we sit down with Shea Holbrook, owner of BSI Racing and star of the Amazon series First to the Finish. Shea opens up about the raw, behind-the-scenes reality of professional motorsports, the challenges and rewards of being a female team owner, and the journey of creating a team that develops the next generation of talent. From her surprise call to Daytona to candid moments in the MX-5 Cup paddock, Shea shares how grit, authenticity, and perseverance have shaped her career—and how those same principles guide her mentorship of young drivers. In this episode, you’ll learn: - How Shea got involved in the Amazon series and the real story behind the cameras - The importance of authenticity in racing and in life - What it takes to succeed as a female team owner - Insights into driver development and the MX-5 Cup racing scene - The personal philosophy that drives Shea’s creation of BSI Racing To learn more about Mazda: https://bit.ly/49b0DQ3 - Follow BSI Racing: https://www.instagram.com/bsi_racing/ - Follow Shea Holbrook: https://www.instagram.com/sheaholbrook/ #racer #podcast #creativedrive #mazda #mx5cup #motorsport #autoracing #sheaholbrook #tarokoki

Stuntwoman. Drifter. Formula DRIFT Prospe competitor. Content creator. Zandara Zee Kennedy has done it all—and she’s just getting started. From jumping off buildings in blockbuster movies like Deadpool and X-Men to mastering precision drifting on tracks across North America, Zee shares her journey of taking risks, chasing her passion, and building a career in stunts and motorsports. In this episode of Creative Drive, we dive into: How Zandara turned stunt work into a career in drifting The realities of racing, car builds, and self-funded adventures Lessons learned from Formula DRIFT and working in the film industry Her passion project combining travel, cars, and culture Tips for women breaking into motorsports and stunts If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to live life on the edge—on set or behind the wheel—this is your front-row seat. Follow  Zee Kennedy: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zeedrives/ https://offers.racer.com/subscribe for RACER+ and magazine offer! Follow RACER on YT: https://www.youtube.com/@Racer.HQ Follow RACER.Podcasts on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.podcasts   Follow RACER.HQ on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.hq/ Follow RACER Network on IG:   https://www.instagram.com/ racer_network   Follow host Taro Koki on IG:https://www.instagram.com/tarokoki99/ 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your fellow car enthusiasts. #Zeedrive #RACER #stuntwomen #formuladrift #drifting #CreativeDrivePodcast  #CarCulture

Host Taro Koki from the Creative Drive sits down with creative polymath Rod Chong — filmmaker, agency leader, ex-Need for Speed creative director, and partner at Race Service — for a deep, inspiring conversation on creativity, AI, motorsports, and building world-class teams. Rod shares the story of his winding creative journey: from art school to music videos, into video-game culture, to launching the globally influential Speedhunters, and now shaping the future of automotive culture at Race Service. - Why not giving the answer makes teams stronger - How Race Service built its “creative squad” model - The power of authentic community in the car world - The coming wave of AI disruption — and why humans still matter more than ever - The future of motorsport entertainment and augmented reality - The shrinking gap between sim racing and real-world driving - How creatives can stay inspired and avoid burnout - The skills young (and stalled) creatives really need today If you’re a creator, filmmaker, motorsport fan, or someone navigating the fast-changing world of AI and culture — this one is for you. Rod Chong is the former Creative Director for Need for Speed, founder of Speedhunters, and now Partner & Chief Creative Officer at Race Service, where he blends automotive culture with art, fashion, film, and technology. He’s worked with Ferrari F1, Porsche, AMG, McLaren, Michelin, and more. https://offers.racer.com/subscribe for RACER+ and magazine offer! Follow RACER on YT: https://www.youtube.com/@Racer.HQ Follow RACER.Podcasts on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.podcasts Follow RACER.HQ on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.hq/ Follow RACER Network on IG: https://www.instagram.com/ racer_network Follow host Taro Koki on IG:https://www.instagram.com/tarokoki99/ 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your fellow car enthusiasts. #RACERCreatorAwards #RACER #RACESERVICE #CreativeDrivePodcast #CarCulture

Learn more: awards.racer.com  https://offers.racer.com/subscribe for RACER+ and magazine offer! The Creative Drive Podcast: Inside the F1 Movie with Erich Joiner — Racing, Filmmaking & Coffee Culture** On this episode of *The Creative Drive*, we sit down with **Erich Joiner** — acclaimed commercial director, race car driver, car collector, and founder of Goodboybob Coffee — for an incredible conversation that bridges **motorsports, Hollywood, and creativity**. Erich shares the *untold behind-the-scenes story* of working on the new **Formula 1 movie** with **Brad Pitt**, **Lewis Hamilton**, and **director Joseph Kosinski (Top Gun: Maverick)**. From building and driving an **LMP1 Le Mans car converted into a camera car** to filming during real Formula 1 races at Silverstone and IMSA races at Daytona, Erich reveals how they captured the most realistic racing footage ever put on screen — and what it was like working under tight FIA windows with hundreds of thousands of fans watching. We also dive into his creative journey — from directing iconic car commercials to turning his love of coffee into an award-winning global brand. If you’re passionate about filmmaking, motorsports, or the creative process behind big ideas, this episode is a must-listen. 🎙️ **In this episode:** * How Erich Joiner helped shoot the Brad Pitt F1 movie * Building a 235-mph LMP1 camera car for real racing scenes * Working with Mario Andretti, Lewis Hamilton, and Jerry Bruckheimer * How the FIA gave Hollywood 11-minute windows to film at live F1 events * The art of blending real racing with cinematic storytelling * From director to coffee entrepreneur: the story of GoodboyBob Coffee 🚗 *The Creative Drive* is presented by **RACER** — the home of motorsports culture, creators, and innovation. 👉 **Subscribe** to The Creative Drive for more conversations with the most creative minds in automotive, motorsport, and media. 🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. #CreativeDrive #RACER #ErichJoiner #BradPittF1Movie #Formula1 #Filmmaking #Motorsport #JosephKosinski #JerryBruckheimer #CarCulture #BehindTheScenes

Auto shows are evolving — and the LA Auto Show might be leading the charge. In this episode, we sit down with David Fortin, VP of Marketing for the LA Auto Show and Automobility LA, to talk about why the RACER Creator Awards is a perfect fit for the LA Auto Show and how car culture is shifting from static displays to full-blown cultural experiences. From influencer collaborations and immersive experiences to live content and creator partnerships, this is where cars meet culture — and where the next generation of fans and brands connect. 🏁 Learn more: awards.racer.com  https://offers.racer.com/subscribe for RACER+ and magazine offer! Follow RACER on YT: https://www.youtube.com/@Racer.HQ Follow RACER.Podcasts on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.podcasts   Follow RACER.HQ on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.hq/ Follow RACER Network on IG:   https://www.instagram.com/ racer_network   Follow host Taro Koki on IG:https://www.instagram.com/tarokoki99/ 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your fellow car enthusiasts. #RACERCreatorAwards #LAAutoShow #CreativeDrivePodcast #Racer #AutoMobilityLA #CarCulture

Rock crawling champion, Monster Jam driver, and YouTube host Nicole Johnson has done it all — literally. She’s flipped, caught fire, and driven off 12-foot cliffs, all in pursuit of mastering every machine she can get her hands on. In this episode of Creative Drive, Nicole joins host Taro Koki to talk about her fearless off-road career, the transition from competition to content creation, and her hit YouTube series https://www.youtube.com/@NicoleJohnsonsDetour. They dive into what it takes to stay authentic, creative, and driven in today’s digital world. How Nicole’s insane off-road skills translate to storytelling on YouTube The real mechanics (and mindset) behind rock crawling Why she believes in driving everything https://offers.racer.com/subscribe for RACER+ and magazine offer! Follow RACER on YT: https://www.youtube.com/@Racer.HQ Follow RACER.Podcasts on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.podcasts   Follow RACER.HQ on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.hq/ Follow RACER Network on IG:   https://www.instagram.com/ racer_network   Follow host Taro Koki on IG:https://www.instagram.com/tarokoki99/ 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your fellow car enthusiasts. #NicoleJohnson  #MonsterJam  #CreativeDrivePodcast  #Racer  #OffRoad  #WomenInMotorsport  #CarCulture

Dustin Williams is one of the most recognized creators in the JDM and automotive scene, but his story starts far from Tokyo’s mountains and Fuji Speedway. From growing up in Mississippi and considering a career in law enforcement, to taking the leap into content creation and eventually building his dream R34 GT-R in Japan, Dustin’s journey is all about passion, persistence, and chasing what feels impossible. In this episode of The Creative Drive, host Taro Koki sits down with Dustin to talk about: His early influences from Fast & Furious and Japanese car culture The risks of leaving a stable career path to pursue YouTube full time Building cars at legendary Japanese tuning shops like Midori Seibi Competing in motorsports, from Time Attack to One Lap of America Growing Legends Media and the business side of being a creator The responsibility of influence and advice for the next generation of car YouTubers Whether you’re into drifting, time attack, or just dream of owning a JDM icon, Dustin’s story proves you’re always one video away from changing your life. Follow RACER on YT: https://www.youtube.com/@Racer.HQ Follow RACER.Podcasts on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.podcasts   Follow RACER.HQ on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.hq/ Follow RACER Network on IG:   https://www.instagram.com/ racer_network   Follow host Taro Koki on IG:https://www.instagram.com/tarokoki99/ 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your fellow car enthusiasts. #CreativeDrive #DustinWilliams #JDM #CarCulture #Motorsport

From the underground streets of SoCal to the global stage, RJ de Vera has been at the heart of tuner culture’s biggest moments. In this episode of The Creative Drive, we dive into his journey from shaping Super Street magazine, to consulting on the original Fast & Furious, to influencing the industry at SEMA and Meguiar’s. RJ shares untold stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and how tuner culture went mainstream. This conversation is packed with history, strategy, and inspiration from one of the scene’s true pioneers. 0:00 Cold Opening RJ de Vera 0:02:00 RJ and Taro met as RJ was coming off of consulting for The Fast and the Furious? 0:02:50 RACER+ Promotion 0:09:50 No one expected The Fast and the Furious to be the franchise it became 0:11:45 Consulting for brands like American Racing and building Roja Motorsports wheels 0:13:30 First sponsorship from Acura to go racing 0:15:50 Old school racing. We figured it out by blowing up stuff 0:19:00 RJ helped Dai Yoshihara when he was just started out in the US 0:22:00 Consulting for Valvoline and becoming an influencer 0:26:00 How did Keiichi Tsushiya got involved with Drifting 101 Valvoline 0:33:30 Transitioning to a corporate job at Meguires 0:40:00 YouTube, brand deals and being an early brand ambassador 0:44:00 Racecar drivers leveraging social media  0:45:00 How RJ became VP of Marketing at SEMA 0:51:00 SEMA's legislative work 01:05:35 Rapid Fire with RJ de Vera Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into the people driving car culture forward. Follow RJ here! https://www.instagram.com/rj_devera/ Follow RACER on YT: https://www.youtube.com/@Racer.HQ Follow RACER.Podcasts on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.podcasts   Follow RACER.HQ on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.hq/ Follow RACER Network on IG:   https://www.instagram.com/ racer_network   Follow host Taro Koki on IG:https://www.instagram.com/tarokoki99/ 🎧 Listen to the full episode on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts. #CreativeDrive #CarCulture #AutomotivePodcast #fastandfurious #rjdevera #sema #paulwalker #drifting #influencer

Le Mans class winner and TV host Justin Bell joins Creative Drive to share stories from racing at a high level and making the transition to media. From winning on the track to co-hosting with Tommy Kendall, Justin reveals what it takes to bring personality, humor, and insider knowledge to motorsports coverage. 0:00 Justin Bell Intro 02:00 Formula 1 podcast, Drive to Wynn is on it's 3rd year and going strong.  07:30 Justin Bell pushed Creator Drive podcast host, Taro Koki down the Corkscrew at Laguna Seca 09:50 Justin Bell on the Indy Car Series 17:00 Justin Bell on Pratt Miller's mind blowing abilities and NASA 19:20 Monaco and other favorite races to experience 20:45 Growing up as Derek Bell's son 28:40 Standing on the podium with his father at Le Mans 31:00 Transitioning as a racecar driver to TV talent 37:15 Being an entertaining interviewee as a racing car driver helped  41:30 Starting the Torque Show with Jason Jacobson 46:20 Justin on automotive journalism vs creators 51:50 F1 Gunther Steiner, Drive to Survive and swearing 53:10 Justin Bell should do an alternative cast on RACER 55:35 Rapid Fire with Justin Bell 58:00 Who's Boostin it? with Justin Bell Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into the people driving car culture forward. Follow Justin Bell here! https://www.instagram.com/justinbellTV Follow RACER on YT: https://www.youtube.com/@Racer.HQ Follow RACER.Podcasts on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.podcasts   Follow RACER.HQ on IG: https://www.instagram.com/racer.hq/ Follow RACER Network on IG:   https://www.instagram.com/ racer_network   Follow host Taro Koki on IG:https://www.instagram.com/tarokoki99/ 🎧 Listen to the full episode on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts. #justinbell  #drivetowynn  #formula1podcast  #formula1  #CreativeDrive  #CarCulture  #racecommentator  #AutomotivePodcast #racing #motorsport #RACERpodcast