Join me as I take a ride with Bill Hayes, an environmental attorney and car enthusiast originally from upstate New York. Bill takes us down memory lane with stories of his first car, a 1975 Volkswagen Scirocco, and the adventures it brought him. You won't want to miss his fascinating tales of owning a classic 1972 BMW 3.0 CS, complete with unforgettable modifications. Bill also shares an adrenaline-pumping sea kayaking expedition in Baja, culminating in a pulse-quickening encounter with local authorities.

We then shift gears to explore the future of automotive technology with insights from Bill's career in environmental law. Starting at a firm representing Honda, Bill's passion for cars and environmental issues led him to collaborate with several Japanese automakers recognized for their green ethics. Our discussion spans the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), the practicality of hybrids, and the challenges posed by hydrogen infrastructure. Bill also opens up about his personal dream of kayaking the entire Seneca Lake, a heartfelt tribute to his late father's love for the sport.

In our final stretch, we reminisce about community spirit and the joy of organizing car shows to support a local cause. Bill leaves us with life advice which came directly from his father, who coined the saying, "It is clear up ahead". Bill's stories are filled with camaraderie and laughter. Lastly, Bill shares two of his favorite charities. The Ohio River Foundation and Learning Grove. You can find the Ohio River Foundation at https://ohioriverfdn.org/ and Learning Grove at https://www.learning-grove.org/.

Curious about how a car enthusiast transitioned from architecture to managing large-scale projects, and then to a life brimming with travel and sailing? Buckle up as Robin Sparrow, takes us on a ride through his life's journey. From his teenage adventures in a 1972 Volkswagen Squareback to an epic 34-day road trip with his 85-year-old mother in a BMW M3, Robin's stories are a testament to the thrills and wisdom gained along the open road. Hear how he navigated career shifts and embraced an adventurous retirement, filled with national parks, fast cars, and invaluable life lessons.

Join us, as we explore Robin's path from architectural dreams inspired by his grandfather to a successful career in project management, working with top real estate firms. Robin shares fond memories of summers in rural Illinois, his passion for painting, and the joy of continuing his grandfather's artistic legacy. We’ll also venture into his extensive travel experiences and future road trip plans, including a heartfelt wish to have traveled with his late father-in-law. Expect engaging tales, thrilling car stories, and timeless advice on listening, hard work, and treating others well. This episode is packed with insights and inspirations for anyone with a love for cars, travel, and the lessons learned along the way.

Ever wondered what it's like to maintain a lifelong friendship from kindergarten to present day? Join me and my dear friend Hap Strunk as we take a virtual drive. Hap opens up about the origins of his name. We talk about his first car, a 1972 Monte Carlo.

Next, we journey into the rich legacy of the funeral home that Hap and his wife Tracy have operated since 1987. We talk about how the computer has impacted the funeral business. We talk about the importance of building trusting relationships especially for their business.

Finally, immerse yourself in Hap's music journey. From having a small bands and playing gigs to creating a local music venue, the Uptown Opry in our home town. Listen to touching stories about his long marriage, encounters with country music legends, and aspirations to play at the Grand Ole Opry.

We conclude with a heartfelt tribute to my Uncle Earl, a man whose generosity left a lasting impact on many. His spirit of kindness serves as a beautiful reminder of the importance of gratitude and community. This episode weaves together the threads of friendship, family, music, and generosity, offering listeners an enriching experience.

What fuels the creative spark of a children's book author who has brought over 80 books to life? Join us as we dive into the enchanting world of Will Hillenbrand, where dreams and childhood memories weave together to inspire beloved stories. From a red pedal-powered fire truck that ignited his imagination to the whims of a recurring dream that shaped his latest project, Will's journey is filled with wonder and nostalgia. Listen as he shares his adventures, including a captivating visit to Singapore to engage young minds in his creative process, and the sentimental tale of his first real car, a Volkswagen Squareback, that played a pivotal role in his courtship with his wife.

But the episode doesn't stop at whimsy and nostalgia. Strap in for a wild cross-country road trip from Cincinnati to California and back, filled with mechanical mishaps, camaraderie, and unexpected encounters. We recount the harrowing yet heartwarming saga of a malfunctioning car, the kindness of strangers, and a motley crew's journey through the heart of America. From the missing second gear to blowing a rod near Las Vegas, and a bizarre late-night cafe stop, you'll be on the edge of your seat. The story culminates in a successful resolution as a new car paves the way for the group's unforgettable adventure to its thrilling end.

You can find Will's books at your favorite book seller. His website is https://www.willhillenbrand.com/

I hit the virtual asphalt with my friend Mike Martin, memories of a classic Ford Mustang and the twists and turns of the Pacific Coast Highway fuel our conversation. Mike, a retired family businessman, breathes life into tales of manual transmissions and life lessons. We chat about the nostalgia that wraps around the steering wheel of his first car, and the family road trip that is etched into his heart—revisiting stops like Hearst Castle and the towering Redwoods.

The road we travel takes a compelling turn as Mike recounts the remarkable growth of his family's industrial metal fabrication business. From its modest beginnings to becoming a 4-generation family business. Mike's reflections on innovation, community spirit, and his father's post-World War II vision illuminate the legacy that continues to drive the company forward, now settled in the city of Florence, Kentucky.

Finally, he shares the perfect road trip companion—none other than the legendary Paul McCartney. Imagine the songs we'd sing, the stories swapped, and the talk about Paul's Corvette. Mike graciously gives a shout out to me and an invitation to the listeners to keep riding shotgun with us at dantheroadtripguy.com, ensures the journey never truly ends. So here's to the open road, the memories we make, and the tales we tell along the way.

Picture yourself embarking on a transformative journey, not just across landscapes, but through the very essence of life's purpose and meaning. Denis Beausejour, a man who shifted gears from a high-flying corporate career at Procter & Gamble to the profound calling of being a pastor. Our conversation cruises through Denis's captivating life story, from navigating a bone-chilling road trip in a vintage Volkswagen Beetle to the seismic awakening that rerouted his path towards spirituality and reflection. Along the way, Denis imparts the wisdom he's gathered on the road less traveled, a journey that he's encapsulated in his heartfelt memoir, "The Biggest Idea Ever."

As we peel back the layers of Denis's corporate tenure, we uncover the entrepreneurial spirit that propelled him through the ranks and the immense insights he gained. Yet, it was the aftermath of an earthquake in Japan that shook the foundation of his life, steering him toward a new horizon where faith and purpose intersect. Denis's pivot from the business boardroom to the pulpit is not just a career change; it's an odyssey that has taken him across continents, nurturing his family, his flock, and ultimately, his own soul.

Strap in for a philosophical road trip as we venture beyond the confines of routine life, tackling the concept of bucket lists, the thrill of a dream drive across America in a Porsche 911, and the timeless allure of a historical travel companion. This episode is a map to living with intention and presence, as Denis shares how to start your day, and the art of slowing down—lessons mirrored in Denis's pilgrimage on the Camino with his wife. Whether you're seeking direction on your personal highway or just a passenger enjoying the view, this episode offers a compass to guide you towards a life of meaning. And for those eager to navigate the roads that Denis has traveled, stick around for a chance to win a copy of his book.

You can find Denis at Denis Beauséjour (denisbeausejour.com).

Be sure to pick up a copy of his book "The Biggest Idea Ever" on his website or your favorite book seller.

Picture a packed Rupp Arena, the echoes of bouncing basketballs, the roar of Kentucky crowds—it's not just a game; it's where I watched my first KHSAA Sweet 16 Tournament and found the love of my life, Linda. Join me, Dan Neal, as I take a solo ride down memory lane, reminiscing about the pulsating excitement of the Kentucky High School Athletic Association's Sweet 16 Basketball Tournament and how it played a backdrop to me meeting my future wife, Linda. We were part of the first graduating class from the newly consolidated high school in McCreary County, KY. This is not just a tale of young love but also a celebration of the traditions and community spirit that make Kentucky's heartbeat.

This episode steers you through the unique county-centric culture of Kentucky, my formative years in McCreary County, and the memorable consolidation of local high schools that shaped a significant chapter of my life. You'll be riding shotgun with me as I share the anticipation of stepping onto the court in warm-up uniforms, harboring the dreams of making it to the state tournament. Fasten your seatbelts for an homage to the places and memories that continue to resonate long after the final buzzer—this is an episode that taps into the heart of what brings us together in celebration of our past.

Recall the roar of engines and the scent of motor oil? That's where you'll find me, Dan the Road Trip Guy, and my long time friend, Bob Wood, as we swap tales of our automotive exploits. Bob's story of purchasing his first car a Bugeye Sprite not only revs up the nostalgia but also fuels a conversation about the bonds formed under the hoods of our beloved machines and along the countless miles of open road.

Strap in for a flashback to the gritty race tracks of the '70s, where Bob starting racing in Formula Ford racing. He shares the details of competing against the likes of Michael Andretti and Chip Ganassi, recounting a victory that's as sweet today as it was then. Bob and I explore the strategies used when every penny counted, from conserving tires to outmaneuvering the competition. It's a glimpse into an era where the love of the race was as important as the trophy at the end.

The episode shifts gears when Bob recounts the extraordinary story of becoming the owner along with two partners of the GT40 trademark. This isn't just a car enthusiast's dream; it's a slice of history, from circling dream cars in magazines to owning a piece of legacy. So tune in, fasten your seatbelt, and join us for a journey that celebrates the intersection of car culture, and the enduring spirit of innovation.

Be sure to visit the website at GT40.com. Where you can not only purchase GT40 parts, but hats, patches, mugs and the beautiful guitar Bob mentioned.