The Mid America Dirt Podcast is a show dedicated to introducing existing and new fans to drivers, crew, supporters, and staff who are involved in the sport of dirt track racing. Many interesting and varied characters can be found in the shows library. Focused mainly on but not limited to racing in the middle of the United States.
Ava Cannady Is Chasing Dirt Racing's Biggest Dreams!
Join Skip Garland as he talks with Ava Cannady, a passionate young race car driver from Louisiana, about her journey in motorsports, her favorite tracks, and future ambitions. Discover her tips for aspiring racers and her experiences traveling and competing across the racing scene. #fyp #automobile #motorsport #race #racing #racecar #racecardriver #girlracer #dirttrackracing #dirtracing In this episode:Discover Ava's background and how she got started in racing despite no family history in the sportInsights into the heat and safety gear used during race conditionsAva shares her recent race wins and her favorite track, Super B Speedway in LouisianaDiscussing the differences between track sizes and the impact on racing stylesUpcoming plans to advance into factory stock and potentially late model racingThe importance of support, sponsorship, and advice for young racersMentions of notable drivers like Bobby Pierce and Bill Frye, and their influenceTravel goals and aspirations to race in famous tracks like Eldora and ArrowheadSharing her passion for mud riding and alternative motorsportsEngaging with fans and the significance of autograph sessions and hero cardsFuture plans include building a new race car and pursuing more sponsorshipsTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Ava Cannady and her racing background02:11 - Location and details about Super B Speedway in Louisiana03:07 - Track size and comparisons with other racing venues04:26 - Ava's family background and how she developed her passion for racing05:13 - Her start in tuner classes and progression through racing series06:07 - Advice for young racers starting out in motorsports07:07 - The support system and involvement of her father as crew chief08:13 - Future plans to move into factory stock and late model racing09:43 - Aspirations to race a sprint car and travel for competitions11:35 - Experience with racing outside Louisiana and attending major events like Eldora14:54 - Hobbies like mud riding and other motorsports activities15:03 - Influences from drivers like Bobby Pierce and Billy Moyer16:10 - Notable late model racers like Bill Frye and regional favorites17:10 - The allure of race tracks and the racing community18:56 - Building and preparing her new race car for next season20:36 - Competing in the Bayou Dirt Life points and recent race disqualification23:14 - Upcoming race events at Chatham and local tracks23:50 - Sponsorship shout-outs and supporter appreciation24:47 - How fans and followers can connect with Ava on social mediaCar photo credit: Best Photography
3 Jun 2026
Raymond Merrill on Racing, Business and Building a Winning Tem
summary
In this in-depth interview, Raymond Merrill shares his journey from growing up in a racing town to competing at high levels in dirt track racing. He discusses the importance of equipment, team dynamics, and his involvement in the bonding industry, offering valuable insights for aspiring racers and industry enthusiasts.
racing, dirt track, racing industry, team dynamics, equipment setup, bonding industry, Oklahoma racing, race car setup, racing history, mentorship
key topics
Raymond Merrill's racing origins and influences
The importance of equipment and team in racing success
Balancing racing with business ventures in bonding and real estate
The impact of mentorship and community involvement in racing
Insights into the racing industry and future events
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Racing Passion
03:03 Early Racing Experiences and Influences
06:00 Transitioning to Late Models and Key Relationships
08:52 The Importance of Equipment and Team Dynamics
12:03 Returning to Racing After Breaks
14:46 The Role of Equipment in Racing Success
17:30 Reflections on Racing Community and Legends
24:32 Racing Legends and Personal Heroes
25:33 The Itch to Race Again
28:45 The Evolution of Bonding Business
29:34 Starting a Bonding Company
31:28 The Changing Landscape of Bonding
35:23 Reading People and Trust in Business
38:18 Giving Back to the Community
5 Apr 2026
Racing Isn't Just Driving| G.R. Smith on Family, Money, & Making it Work
racing, family, late models, big block modifieds, ARCA, Drake Troutman, Chili Bowl, team ownership, financial aspects, motorsportsSummaryIn this conversation, GR Smith shares his journey from growing up in a racing family to becoming a team owner and driver. He discusses the physical demands of racing, the transition from hockey to motorsports, and the evolution of racing technology. GR highlights the importance of family in racing, his partnership with rising star Drake Troutman, and the financial realities of running a racing team. The conversation also touches on the prestigious Chili Bowl event and the significance of community and support in the racing world. #fyp #podcast #podcasting #dirttrackracing #dirttrack #racing #racetrack #racecar #automobile #motorsport TakeawaysRacing is a physically demanding sport that requires immense dedication.Growing up in a racing family shapes one's passion for the sport.Hockey played a significant role in GR Smith's early life alongside racing.Transitioning from modifieds to late models is a common path for racers.The evolution of racing technology has changed how races are run today.ARCA racing offers unique challenges and experiences for drivers.Team ownership involves significant financial investment and management.Drake Troutman is a rising star in the racing world and a key part of GR's team.The Chili Bowl is a prestigious event that many racers aspire to participate in.Family involvement in racing creates a supportive and enriching environment.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Racing and Personal Experiences03:00 Growing Up in a Racing Family05:33 The Intersection of Hockey and Racing08:40 Transitioning from Hockey to Racing11:36 Big Block Modified Racing Insights14:36 The Evolution of Racing Techniques17:32 Late Model Racing Journey20:28 Experiences in ARCA Racing23:27 The Competitive Nature of Racing26:31 Team Dynamics and Future Aspirations34:17 Building Trust and Team Dynamics38:11 The Financial Realities of Racing43:28 Preparing for the Chili Bowl50:50 Family Legacy in Racing54:56 The Importance of Community in Racing
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
3 ratings
Contact Mid America Dirt Podcast
Guest appearances
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