Off-Road Racer Podcast

This week we sit down with Mike “Otto” Deutsch, co-founder of Biltwell, a brand that has become a cornerstone of motorcycle culture. These days, Otto is best known for helping bring people together—through events like the Biltwell 100 and countless other moto gatherings that celebrate the spirit of two wheels and the garage-built community.In this episode, Otto and Matt dive into everything from the early days of Biltwell to the evolution of grassroots racing, the crossover between moto and off-road, and the importance of keeping the culture authentic. They talk about the lessons learned from building a lifestyle brand, the people who make it thrive, and the stories that keep events like the Biltwell 100 so special.This is a wide-ranging conversation that captures not just Otto’s journey, but the spirit of the community he’s been helping to shape for decades. 🎙 Presented by Dirt Co.

In this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, we sit down with Dan Roush — a racer with a story unlike any we’ve heard before. Dan isn’t a household name in the off-road world, but his life was forever changed in an instant during a brutal crash in Baja. In the moments after the impact, Dan made the conscious choice to keep breathing, fight through the pain, and survive. From the details of that day to the long road of recovery, Dan shares his journey with honesty and perspective. We talk about how his crash reshaped his outlook on life, what it taught him about resilience, and why the off-road community played such an important role in his healing. This is more than just a racing story — it’s a story about the human spirit, perseverance, and finding strength in the face of overwhelming challenges. 🎙 Presented by Dirt Co.

In this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, I sit down with David Clay, founder of RacingTrax, the GPS tracking and timing system used by UNLTD and many other off-road racing series. We dive into how a series of frustrating experiences racing in Baja led David to develop one of the most important innovations in modern desert racing. What started as a tool to keep track of race vehicles has evolved into a system that increases safety, improves race management, and provides critical real-time data to teams, officials, and fans alike. We talk about how the technology works, what it takes to run it across thousands of square miles of remote terrain, and what’s next for the future of live tracking and safety in off-road racing.This one’s a deep dive into the tech that keeps our sport moving forward. — Matt MartelliPresented by: @thedirtco – Built for those who go off-road.

On this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, we sit down with rising off-road racer Dave Mason Jr., one of the most versatile drivers in the sport today. From a foundation in karting and open-wheel, to years competing in Pro Buggy, Dave brings a unique perspective and driving style to desert racing — one that blends technical precision with raw speed. We get into his transition into the Unlimited Truck class, the philosophy behind his race program, and how he’s built a competitive team by starting with proven equipment and refining it over time. Dave also shares how his family’s structural steel business plays into the operation, and how they’ve created a shared shop and crew that fuels both sides of their hustle. This episode also touches on the deeper lessons of racing — the grind, the long-term thinking, and the challenges of staying competitive without overextending. Whether you’re a driver, builder, or just a fan of how things come together in the off-road world, this conversation offers insight into what it takes to climb the ladder — and why doing it your own way matters. Presented by Dirt Co. - Clothes for the ones who live off-road. Grab gear that matches your lifestyle at thedirtco.com

In this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, I sit down with Bryan Harrold, Motorsports Program Manager at Fox Factory. From growing up in the pits of Plaster City to helping guide one of the most influential brands in off-road racing, Bryan’s path has been built on creativity, consistency, and a deep understanding of the culture. We dig into Bryan’s early days photographing desert races, his creative path, and how mentors like John Marking helped guide him into his current role at Fox — where he now bridges the gap between engineering, marketing, and racing culture. Bryan also talks about the groundbreaking evolution of Live Valve technology, Fox’s expansion into international racing like Extreme E and Dakar, and the importance of supporting grassroots racing through programs like contingency and 1600 class incentives.

In this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, we sit down with Robert Blanton, a retired Marine, Silver Star recipient, and founder of Warfighter Made — a nonprofit dedicated to helping combat-wounded veterans through off-road racing, fabrication, and community. Blanton takes us through the battles that came after the war — the struggle to adjust, the weight of post-traumatic stress, and the moment he nearly gave up. We talk about how wrenching on a Camaro in his garage became the first step in his recovery, and how Warfighter Made has since given that same opportunity to hundreds of other veterans. This is a conversation about service, identity, recovery — and the power of getting behind the wheel and moving forward.robertblanton, warfightermade, offroadracerpodcast, desertracing, unlimitedoffroadracing, veteransupport, silverstarrecipient, posttraumaticstress, mentalhealthawareness, offroadcommunity, militarystories, offroadtherapy, veteranvoices, racerstories, garagebuilt, dirtcodriven, offroadlife, healingthroughracing, serviceandstrength, motorsportculture

In this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, we sit down with Trey Gibbs — one of the most exciting young drivers in off-road right now. Still deep in the short course world and stepping confidently into desert racing, Trey represents the next generation of racers who are fast, focused, and built for both sides of the sport. We talk about how it started, what he’s learning, and where he’s headed — from early wins to big lessons and everything in between. Whether it’s behind the wheel or behind the camera, Trey’s building something real. This one’s about potential, precision, and carving your own path.

In this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, we sit down with Brice and Justin Allen of Allen Racing Co., two brothers who’ve carved out their own lane in the off-road world through hard work, clean prep, and a relentless drive to improve. From their early days racing UTVs in District 38 to earning respect in the Unlimited Off-Road Racing Series, the Allens share what it takes to run a family-backed race team and finish nearly every race they enter. We dig into the ups and downs of grassroots racing, building their cars at home, the importance of community, and what it's like to race (and argue) with your brother in the car. This is an honest conversation about what it takes to keep showing up, racing smart, and chasing the dream — one finish line at a time.

This special two-part episode features a crossover with the High Octane Hustle Podcast. Part one airs here on the Off-Road Racer Podcast, and part two continues over on their channel. Tune in for a raw, wide-open conversation about tequila, racing, and automotive culture.

In this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, Matt Martelli sits down with one of the fastest and most innovative minds in off-road racing—Dale Dondel of Racer Engineering. Known for his blistering qualifying runs and relentless drive for performance, Dondel has carved a unique path in the sport as both a racer and elite vehicle builder. We dive into Dale’s roots in dirt bikes and short course, his time learning from legendary fabricator Nye Frank, and how those early influences shaped his philosophy of racing and design. He opens up about the evolution of his trucks, the challenges of chasing AWD performance, and why he continues to tear down and rebuild in pursuit of speed. This episode is a deep look at what it takes to stay ahead in off-road racing—both behind the wheel and in the shop.

In this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, Matt Martelli sits down with Chris Cyr — rally driver, business strategist, and managing partner of the legendary Team O’Neil Rally School. Chris shares his journey from discovering rally as a teenager to helping save one of the most important rally institutions in North America. We dive into how he transitioned from a fan to a leader in the sport, the challenges of scaling Team O’Neil, and his role in founding the American Rally Association (ARA). Chris also discusses the mental discipline of rally driving, why rally is one of the best training grounds for all motorsports, and his vision for the future of rally in the U.S. Whether you're into stage rally, off-road racing, or just love a good underdog story, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration.

In this episode of The Off-Road Racer Podcast, I sit down with off-road entrepreneurs and vehicle builders Jordan and Johnathan Brenthel. Founders of Brenthel Industries, the Brenthel Brothers run the largest Trophy Truck and Spec Trophy Truck manufacturing facility in the sport. In addition to this, the Brenthel's operate Baja Kits, an off-road suspension kit company, and the Brenthel Trophy Truck School, one of the few Desert-Racing focused schools, and the only one that can get you in a Trophy Truck. Jordan, Johnathan and I talk at length about their entrepreneurial history, working up from a 2-man shop, to the industry giant they are today. The Brenthel Brothers give some insight into the work and mindset is takes to build such a company, and how they leveraged the sport of desert racing to test their products and design, as well as a way to build credibility with potential customers. I’m your host Matt Martelli, and this IS the Off-Road Racer Podcast.

In this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, I sit down with class 10 and class 1 racer Tom Coons. Tom Coons recently won class 10 and got 3rd overall at the 2024 California 300. Tom and I go on a deep dive into the art and skill of racecraft. We talk about Tom’s evolution through various suspension setups, transitioning from manual to sequential gearboxes, and how Tom plans and preps for a race. We also talk about the character it takes to do off-road racing. It is no secret that off-road racing is challenging, and it demands perseverance and ambition, but also an ability to work with people in the industry, who can help you out. For those of us who know, you cannot do this sport alone. I’m your host Matt Martelli, and this IS the Off-Road Racer Podcast.

In this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, I sit down with 2x California 300 Champion Brayden Baker. Despite his young age, Brayden has been making a name for himself in off-road racing, grabbing wins at the 2021 UTV World Championship, the 2022 Laughlin Desert Classic, and the 2023 and 2024 California 300. Brayden’s family started out as casual enthusiasts, having a few play cars. When Brayden turned 16, Brayden started racing in the WORCS series, eventually grabbing the series’ Pro Stock Championship. Since then, Brayden has transitioned to desert racing, and is building and prepping his own cars at Rivershore Motorsports. Brayden and I talk about his rapid progression through the sport, and the work ethic and attitude it takes to get the results Brayden has seen. I’m your host Matt Martelli, and this IS the Off-Road Racer Podcast.

In this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, I sit down with vintage off-road racer Eric Pond. Back in 2017, Eric pitted for a friend at the Mint 400, and has been hooked ever since. Now, Eric races a 1969 Bronco called ‘Iron Casket’, with Vigilante Racing and Queen City Off-Road. Eric has been competing in off-road races as a passion, and also as an opportunity to raise funds for the Cancer Research Institute (CRI), as Eric has been battling cancer for the last 3 years. His battle with cancer has given off-road racing a new dimension, serving as a passion and goal when working through treatment, and always something to look forward to. So far, Eric has raised over $14,000 for CRI through racing. Today, Eric has been racing as much as he can, making unforgettable memories and friendships, and leaving cancer in the dust one mile at a time. I’m your host Matt Martelli, and this IS the Off-Road Racer Podcast.Please consider donating to fund cancer research:https://fundraise.cancerresearch.org/fundraiser/5084673

In this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, I sit down with Off-Road Champion Ryan Arciero. The Arciero family has been involved in motorsports for over 60 years, starting with Ryan’s grandfather in pavement racing. Ryan has been competing in off-road racing since 1991, starting out with the great Jimmie Johnson. Throughout his entire career, Ryan has been rubbing elbows with the greatest in our sport, getting mentoring from “Baja” Bob Gordon, and Ivan Stewart, and racing alongside Larry Ragland, Brian Stewart, Mark Miller, and Ricky Johnson in the Vortec Factory Racing Program. Now, Ryan is leading the recently rebranded 1 Nine Industries, and using his extensive knowledge base in off-road racing and high level factory race programs to elevate the accomplished fabrication and racing program to even greater heights. At 1 Nine Industries, Ryan is working alongside the legendary Herbst family and Team, fabricating and prepping dozens of winning chassis for customers in our sport. Ryan and I talk about his accomplished history, and what he has left to accomplish in off-road racing. I’m your host Matt Martelli, and this IS the Off-Road Racer Podcast.

In this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, I sit down with off-road racer, tour guide, and Hollywood stuntman Rich Minga. Rich had an unsuspecting start in off-roading, going on camping trips with his family in Baja. After getting hooked on Hot VWs Magazine, Rich started sweeping the floors at a buggy prep shop in El Cajon, and built his own Baja Bug at the young age of 15. Taking what he learned from How to Keep Your Volkswagen Alive, Rich would go on to help prep cars for Mark Stahl, Jim Guthrie, and Dan Gurney. After many years of prepping, and getting the occasional chance to drive, Rich would start his own race program, racing Baja in class 9 in 1986. Just one year later, Rich took the overall points championship. Because of his performance in racing, and all of the people he met in off-road, Rich got the opportunity to perform vehicle stunts in an episode of Baywatch. This led into a career as a stuntman in Hollywood, where Rich would use his experience in racing to perform stunts in dozens of films. Now, Rich is a guide and driving coach for Wide Open Baja, while still operating as a stuntman. Rich and I sit down to talk about his lifelong history in off-road, and more. I’m your host Matt Martelli, and this IS the Off-Road Racer Podcast.

In this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, I sit down with recent Crandon winner Cole Mamer. At only 25 years old, Cole is running a top tier short course race program, running trucks in Pro Lite, Pro 2, and Pro 4. Cole grew up in Imperial County, a region that has spawned many successful racers, including Justin Lofton and Brock Heger. Cole grew up racing, starting in motocross and circle track, and eventually moving over to Trophy Karts. Due to a limited budget, Cole learned how to work on his own vehicles, which gave him the knowledge base to build and prep cars for racers like Trey Gibbs and Troy Cox. Now, Cole is racing in Pro 4, and just got his first victory in Pro 4 at the 2024 Crandon World Cup. Cole and I talk about his career’s progression up to this point, and the amount of knowledge and work it takes to run a race program at such a high level. I’m your host Matt Martelli, and this IS the Off-Road Racer Podcast.

In this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, I sit down with off-road racing legend and Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame inductee, as well as Chairman of the Board Mark McMillin. Few families have been as successful in off-road racing for as long as the McMillin’s. Off-roading with his father Corky McMillin in buggies since the 60’s, and racing since the 70’s, Mark has seen and done it all. Mark has had a dominant career in the SCORE series, grabbing multiple San Felipe 250, Baja 500, and 1000 wins, and winning the Mint 400 in 1988. Now, Mark operates as the chairman for the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame, while Mark’s sons, Dan and Luke McMillin, are currently racing Trophy Trucks in the SCORE series. Mark and I talk about his and his family’s extensive history, and more. I’m your host Matt Martelli, and this IS the Off-Road Racer Podcast.

This is an old episode pulled out of the Mad Media Archives, recorded back in 2019. Jim Beaver and Josh Martelli sit down with Motocross, X-Games, and Short Course legend Brian Deegan. The three of them discuss Brian’s history, touching on the key moments in his life, talking about his accomplishments in Motocross and X-Games, the start of Metal Mulisha, and more. Moving closer to the present, they talk about Brian’s transition into fatherhood, and his children starting their own careers in motorsports. At the time, Hailie Deegan was starting her career racing in NASCAR, and Haiden and Hudson were just getting into Motocross. Brian talks about the balance of supporting his kids while still advancing his career. This is the Off-Road Racer Podcast.