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Podholic: Slow in, fast out

Canadian motorsport coach Ross Bentley’s Speed Secrets podcast lends insight into what it takes to achieve the ultimate lap time.

SUCCESS in motorsport requires precision, skill and determination; it calls for understanding of vehicle dynamics, ability to make split-second decisions and benefits from peak fitness.   

The Speed Secrets podcast is designed to be a racecraft-honing resource worthy of the attention of anyone keen on chicane-attacking.

Host Ross Bentley is a seasoned performance coach, also a racing driver, author and speaker. On this pod he is often joined by guest co-hosts, Jeff Braun—a race car engineer with a resume spanning NASCAR, karts, club racing cars, Indy, GT, Prototypes and Top Fuel dragsters—and Sam Smith, a freelance motoring scribe for Road and Track magazine. 

Speed Secrets is a monthly, with more than 100 episodes already. It covers a broad spectrum of race-driving topics, including trail braking, cornering lines, data acquisition, video analysis, upshifting and downshifting, handling and car setup, steering techniques and throttle control. 

Sports specific terms like skip-shifting are demystified, and you’ll learn about the importance of rhythm, sensory awareness and car rotation. Brake, clutch in, blip the throttle, clutch out, and then turn the corner – you get the drift.

While not the most outright entertaining of shows, its humorous and insightful tangents are appreciated. Light-hearted touches alleviate technical discussions.

The involvers’ chemistry and their genuine enthusiasm is obvious. Thoughtful consideration for guests’ inputs allows them to shine, offering listeners various perspectives, experiences and trackside insights. 

Beyond the podcast, there’s a Speed Secrets YouTube channel. This offers visual tips for driving faster around a track. This multimedia approach ensures learners can grasp the concepts, whether they prefer auditory or visual learning methods. 

Bentley’s show is a hidden gem. With its great chemistry, engaging dialogue, and wealth of technical knowledge, it’s the one podcast you should subscribe to as a free resource for improving your racecraft.

The Speed Secrets podcast homepage: https://speedsecrets.com/speedsecrets-podcast/