Hotrod Hangout

It’s just Matt and Ashley riding shotgun together in this episode, catching everyone up on the last month of cruising, wrenching, and show‑hopping. They kick things off with their trip to the Lowrider Car Show in Tampa—checking out some wild hopping competitions, rolling into the after‑party, and soaking in rows of insanely detailed lowriders that looked like they rolled straight out of a candy‑paint daydream.From there, they shift gears into Custom Culture 26, where they got to drive some killer rides to and from the show, talk through some of the standout trophy winners, and celebrate a big milestone: the Caddy made its first public appearance… and wrapped the day with a surprise nobody saw coming.Matt and Ashley close things out by looking ahead—sharing the events they’ll be hitting next and giving listeners a little insight into what the future holds for them.

Darien White joins the show to talk about a journey that started at just 14 years old, wrenching on an old S10 with a blown head gasket and a grandpa who was willing to teach him the ropes. That early spark turned into a lifelong drive: autobody school, self‑taught welding, and a passion for building cars the hard way — by learning every lesson firsthand.Darien breaks down the first full build he ever tackled and the mistakes that shaped him. Now he’s stepping into the Outlaw Class for the High Class Trash Invitational, choosing freedom over restrictions so he can push his skills — and his creativity — as far as they’ll go. His project for the build‑off? A 1940 GM truck that’s already testing his limits in all the right ways.Matt and Darien dig into what it really means to drive low, the quirks and hazards you only learn from experience, and the truck sitting in the corner that Darien’s wife has her eye on for a future build. They also get into how auctions are reshaping the car market and what that means for everyday builders.At the end of the day, Darien reminds us why this culture matters: car people are down‑to‑earth folks who just want to keep the scene alive — one build, one story, one late‑night garage session at a time. Check out his latest adventures on Facebook and Instagram!

It’s just Matt and Ashley on the mics tonight, catching everyone up on what’s been happening behind the scenes. They dive into some life updates, and Matt drops a piece of exciting news you won’t want to miss. He also breaks down what’s going on with the tow pig and where that project stands today.The conversation turns to the community—how grateful they are for the people who show up, lend a hand, and look out for each other when someone’s in a jam. They also run through the upcoming shows and events they’re planning to hit, so you’ll know exactly where to find them next.And if you’ve ever wondered how you can help keep this podcast rolling, stick around. They share how you can get involved and support the show in a real way.

Joey Woodall grew up surrounded by the kind of cars that shape a lifetime of passion. His grandpa’s ’67 Chevelle set the hook early, and by the time he turned 18, Joey was handed the keys to a ’74 Stingray that cemented his love for the classics.In this episode, Joey shares the story behind the ’71 C‑10 that took him into his very first burnout contest—an event created to support a child fighting cancer. That moment didn’t just light up the tires; it pulled Joey into a tradition of giving back, one he’s now proud to help carry forward for other kids facing the big fight. (Burn Out on 66)Matt and Joey dig into everything from the joys and chaos of having a wife who definitely doesn’t admit she likes all the cars in the yard, to the moments in the shop when Joey’s young son comes out to get his hands dirty and be part of the legacy.Joey also breaks down the vision behind his ’54 Oldsmobile build for the High Class Trash Invitational, and the two talk openly about the struggles of learning new trades—bead rolling, pinstriping, and all the humbling lessons that come with leveling up as a builder.And trust us… you’re going to want to hear Joey’s Unlimited Budget Build.The episode wraps with bucket‑list car shows, a few laughs, and some solid words of wisdom from a guy who builds with heart, humor, and a whole lot of grit.Be sure to keep up with his builds on YouTube!THANKS FOR LISTENING!LIKE, SHARE AND DOWNLOAD!www.hotrodhangout.com

Born into the GM world through his family’s dealership, Leonard Boschman grew up with gasoline in his veins and a front‑row seat to the kind of cars that spark lifelong obsession. In this episode, he shares the story of the very first car he ever bought, the small‑town Canadian life he still calls home, and the surprising cost differences he and Matt compare between Canada and the U.S.Leonard opens up about the ’71 Chevelle that slipped through his fingers, the moment he fell headfirst into rat rod culture, and the ever‑changing lineup of favorites in his fleet—each one chosen depending on the kind of day he wants to have. From past builds that earned trophies and long‑haul “Furthest Driven” awards to the Chevy truck he’s crafting for the High Class Trash Invitational, Leonard’s approach is simple: build something he’s never seen before, and build it in a way that brings joy not just to himself, but to everyone who sees it.This episode is a celebration of creativity, community, and the kind of builder who keeps hot‑rodding alive by doing it his own way.Keep up with his build on Facebook and Instagram! THANKS FOR LISTENING!LIKE, SHARE AND DOWNLOAD!www.hotrodhangout.com

Alan Placer of ML Toys joins the show to share a story rooted in family, curiosity, and a lifelong love of anything with wheels. Growing up in New Jersey, Alan was surrounded by machines and creativity—his dad owned a gas station and seemed to bring home a different car every night, always tinkering and teaching by example. Add in a family‑run hobby shop, and Alan found himself immersed in RC cars and hands‑on building from an early age. That mix of influence eventually sparked the idea that would become ML Toys.In this episode, Alan walks through how ML Toys began and how it grew into a company that lets kids and their parents transform ordinary Power Wheels into full‑blown mini dragsters. He breaks down how the upgrades work, what it really costs to build a souped‑up Power Wheel, and even highlights events where these tiny dragsters line up and race. Alan also shares personal stories from his own automotive journey—from his first car, to the meaningful vehicle he bought after 9/11, to what’s currently in his fleet—painting a picture of someone who never lost the spark that started it all.Check out MLToys of Facebook and their Website! AND use 'HOTROD HANGOUT' at checkout for 10% off!THANKS FOR LISTENING!LIKE, SHARE AND DOWNLOAD!www.hotrodhangout.com

In this episode, Levi Harrill joins Matt in the studio for a conversation that blends nostalgia, craftsmanship, and the pure joy of keeping hot‑rodding alive. Levi shares how his grandpa first pulled him into the car scene—starting with those 99‑cent Hot Wheels that sparked a lifelong obsession.He talks about his soft spot for pre‑war iron from the teens, 20s, and 30s, the truck that slipped through his fingers, and what he brought to the Rat Stock Build Off. Levi also breaks down the lineup of cars he had to choose from for the High Class Trash Invitational and the inspiration behind the vision he ultimately chased.Matt and Levi dig into how different generations approach their builds, the trial‑and‑error process of figuring out what works (and what definitely doesn’t), and the emotional payoff of hitting that magical “running and driving” moment. They also shine a light on the car community—how inclusive, down‑to‑earth, and genuinely supportive it can be when people come together simply to enjoy their builds.And yes… they even talk about a town so small it has a dealership that sells both Ford and Chevy under one roof.This one’s all about passion, people, and keeping the culture alive. Check out his Instagram and Torque Alley Garage on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube! THANKS FOR LISTENING!LIKE, SHARE AND DOWNLOAD!www.hotrodhangout.com

This episode brings a true family legacy into the spotlight as father‑and‑son team Jason and Cody Knight join us to talk about their journey into the High Class Trash Invitational. Jason grew up wrenching alongside his dad, learning the ropes on an old Dodge Power Wagon. Now he’s passing that same passion down to his son Cody as they tackle a ’53 Chevy 5‑window pickup together.They’re competing in the Newbie Class, sticking to the budget, getting creative, and building the truck that will eventually become Cody’s very first ride. It’s a project fueled by family pride, late‑night problem‑solving, and the excitement of watching a young builder find his place in the culture.We dig into how car scenes differ across the country, the loss of shop classes in schools, and why the automotive community still shows up for each other—especially in build‑offs like this one. Jason and Cody talk about their idols, including legends like Don Garlits, and we get into the eternal debate: chasing horsepower vs. keeping the motor alive. And of course, we touch on the good, the bad, and the downright stubborn realities of owning a diesel.It’s a conversation about heritage, hard work, and the next generation keeping the culture alive.THANKS FOR LISTENING!LIKE, SHARE AND DOWNLOAD!www.hotrodhangout.com

This week, Matt sits down with Adam, the creator behind Marek Makes — a self‑taught builder from Pennsylvania whose love for cars started long before he ever touched a welder. From matchbox cars and RC rigs to buying his first mechanic’s tool set from Sears, Adam carved his own path into the automotive world one small obsession at a time.He shares his experience competing in the Rat Stock Build Off, how he learned countless skills just by watching other builders on YouTube, and why he still feels like he belongs in the “Newbie Class” even though he’s already got real builds under his belt. Adam opens up about the reality of rat rod fabrication — fix one thing, and suddenly four more problems show up — and how every part on a rat rod either serves a purpose or has been repurposed with intention.One of the highlights of his story is the community. When he arrived at the Rat Stock Show and announced he needed help, more than ten people showed up with tools, supplies, and hands ready to work. That moment cemented what he already felt: the rat rod world is built on generosity, grit, and shared passion.Adam also talks about keeping car culture alive for the next generation. His High Class Trash Invitational build isn’t just a competition entry — it’s destined to become his son’s first car when the time comes. For him, the real reward isn’t trophies or titles. It’s making it to the show, meeting the people, and building something that will outlive the moment.This is an episode for anyone who loves the craft, the chaos, and the community that makes rat rods more than metal.Check out the progress he has made on the build on YouTube!THANKS FOR LISTENING!LIKE, SHARE AND DOWNLOAD!www.hotrodhangout.com

Just the two of us on this episode, and we’re kicking things off by thanking every single person who came out to The Hangout 2026. What a show. We’re breaking down all the highlights—from the band and the Pin Up Contest to the trophy winners and the mountain of raffle prizes.And yes… there’s a BIG announcement in this one, so don’t miss it.We’re also looking ahead to what’s coming in 2026 and sharing how we plan to keep growing this community and making each year better than the last.THANKS FOR LISTENING!LIKE, SHARE AND DOWNLOAD!

Just the two of us wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas! Also go over all the finalized details for the upcoming show, The Hangout 2026! We give some updates on the Caddy and hint at some plans we have in store for 2026.Of course, none of this would be possible without the support of every one of you! Thank you all for listening! Please LIKE, COMMENT and SHARE! www.hotrodhangout.com

Dillon Aistrop joins the show as another builder stepping into the Outlaw Class, bringing with him a family legacy steeped in car culture. His journey began before he could even walk—riding with his dad to pick up a ’56 Chevy as a baby. With influences from his father, grandfather, and stepdad, Dillon was destined to live and breathe the car scene.In this episode, Dillon shares how he took over his grandfather’s local car club, offers a fresh perspective on the age-old question “What’s the car that got away?”, and dives into the Merc he’s building for the High Class Trash Invitational. We also talk about his shift from the Blue Collar Class to the Outlaw Class, and explore the highs and lows of Marketplace—how location and timing can make or break a budget. Check out DS Paint and Fab, Dillon's Instagram, TikTok, and Peace and GreaseTHANKS FOR LISTENING!LIKE, SHARE AND DOWNLOAD!www.hotrodhangout.com

Kicking off the High Class Trash Invitational Builder Series - Eric Wade! Eric starts with telling us the root of his car obsession starting when he was young working on old school cars in the back yard with his dad. Eric tells us all about the adventures he has had at the drag strip which opened up so many doors for him! He fills us in on how a mail truck build intended to go to Sick Week turned into an invitation to Street Outlaws: Locals Only! Eric shouts out all the amazing people that he has met along the way to help his dreams come true. Eric talks about the turning point in his life of walking through a car show and seeing the TRAIN from Village Customs! And how that started a new obsession with rat rods! You will want to hear his words of advise! He lives by that advise everyday which has led him into the High Class Trash Invitational! Be sure to listen to the end to hear what he has in store for the build off! Stay tuned in for upcoming episodes introducing the other builders! Don't forget Preregistration for The Hangout 2026 CLOSES December 7th! Go visit www.hotrodhangout.com to get signed up and check out the merch! THANKS FOR LISTENING!LIKE, SHARE AND DOWNLOAD!