By Kevin Oeste, V8TV Productions Inc.
The Hammer Down! podcast — the official podcast of the SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) — continues to deliver must-hear conversations straight from the hot rod, restoration, and performance automotive world.
Hosted by Kevin Oeste, every episode features industry leaders, builders, manufacturers, and innovators sharing real stories, practical tips, and insider views on what keeps this passionate community rolling.
Whether you're catching up or just discovering it, here's a sample of some standout episodes already out there:
- Fake Parts, Real Problems: Manufacturers Fight Fake Hot Rod Parts — A hard-hitting look at counterfeit components, safety concerns, warranty headaches, and how the industry is fighting back.
- Inside Tips: Hot Rod Branding and Merch Strategies — Tim Sousamian drops great advice on standout branding and merch to connect with fans and grow your shop.
- Event Success with Gary Case of the Triple Crown of Rodding — Pro tips for making events unforgettable from one of the biggest names in rod shows.
- What exactly is SEMA and the Hot Rod Industry Alliance? (SEMA 101) — The essential breakdown of what SEMA and HRIA do and why they matter to the industry.
- Navigating Challenges & Building Success in the Hot Rod Industry — Rick Love on overcoming obstacles and building a thriving business.
- Show Vs. Go: Jonathan Goolsby and Eddie Denkenberger — Two respected voices share perspectives on building, showing, and actually driving.
- Why Join SEMA and the HRIA? — Mike Spagnola, Kyle Fickler, and Norris Marshall explain the real value of membership.
- Builders Making and Selling Parts — Levi Green and Dan Kahn on turning ideas into profitable products.
- From Borrowed Hammer to Ridler Award Winner — Dave Kindig's inspiring path and key lessons learned.
These episodes, plus more in the archives, are loaded with actionable insights for builders, manufacturers, shop owners, enthusiasts, and anyone who geeks out over cool cars and the culture behind them. And there’s way more coming. Fresh guests, timely topics, and stories from the garage and industry front lines are in the pipeline.
Haven’t subscribed yet? Jump in now!
Search for “Hammer Down: The SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance HRIA Podcast” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your go-to app, hit subscribe, and never miss a drop. Dive into the back catalog, get inspired, and fuel your next project.
Love the show? Spread the word! Share Hammer Down! with your shop buddies, fellow gearheads, automotive industry contacts, or anyone who digs great cars and solid conversations. Tag a friend, send a link, or give it a shout on social—word-of-mouth keeps this community strong.
Keep the hammer down, stay tuned, and thanks for supporting the SEMA HRIA and the incredible hot rod world.