The Creative Drive

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 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  

Host Taro Koki welcomes NASCAR pit reporter, former Top Gear USA, Floor is Lava host and overall awesome car guy, Rutledge Wood to The Creative Drive podcast. This recording took place during the 2024 SEMA Show where Rutledge was part of the unveiling of several project cars for Toyota. They touch on the Supra Bird which was inspired by Richard Petty, the Toyota Drift Truck and many other vehicles which were on display at the largest aftermarket show in the world. They also talk about the Toyota Celebrity Race at the Long Beach Grand Prix where Rutledge first got to race over a decade ago. Taro and Rutledge also get into how Top Gear USA came about and deep dive into the art of pit lane reporting like you've never heard before! This is one episode you will not want to miss! 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 #rutledgewood #topgearusa #toyota #SEMA #Nascar

Meet the founders of Built By Legends, the groundbreaking restomod project that's redefining iconic Japanese tuner cars from the '80s and '90s. Masa Kuji and Katsu Takahashi, two lifelong car enthusiasts with a shared passion for Japanese automotive culture. Raised overseas (Masa in Canada and Katsu in the UK and Australia), they bring a unique global perspective to their mission of restoring and reimagining Japan's most legendary cars. From their early days at co-founding GTChannel and Best Motoring International with RACER's Creative Drive host Taro Koki, to founding Built By Legends, their journey is fueled by a love for cars, a dedication to craftsmanship, and a vision to bridge Japan’s rich tuning heritage with the rest of the world. Join us to listen to their incredible story on how they’re bringing Japanese classics to life for a new generation of enthusiasts. #thecreativedrive #racerpodcasts #skylinegtr #builtbylegends #mines #skyline

In this special SEMA episode of The Creative Drive, host Taro Koki sits down with Tanner Foust—professional racing driver, stunt performer, and TV host—to explore his incredible career in motorsports and beyond. From his early days on the track to becoming a household name in drifting, rallycross, and stunt driving, Tanner shares behind-the-scenes stories from iconic projects like the Hot Wheels stunts, going up against his idols in the Race of Champions and working on stunts for blockbuster movies like John Wick 4. Learn how he balances his passions for racing and storytelling, the lessons he's learned along the way, and his insights into having a creative mind to sell your brand.