Best In Wheel Time Podcast | Automotive talk with Don Armstrong Podcasts (2025)

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Hot Wheels Tour Rolls into Houston 32:00

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3h ago32:00

32:00

Ever dreamed of seeing your custom car immortalized as a Hot Wheels die-cast model? That dream could become reality as the Hot Wheels Legends Tour rolls into Houston on Saturday, August 2nd. We're joined by Eric Hahn, lead designer at Hot Wheels, who pulls back the curtain on this extraordinary traveling car show. Now in its eighth year, the Legend…

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7,100 Miles of American Backroads in a Subaru Crosstrek 28:54

7h ago28:54

28:54

Ever wondered what it would be like to cross America primarily on dirt roads? Andy and Mercedes Lilienthal let us ride shotgun on their extraordinary Transamerica Trail adventure – a jaw-dropping 7,100-mile journey with over 3,100 miles on unpaved terrain, all completed in just 29 days. The couple's modified 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness proved …

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Hidden Houston, Guiness Recored Breaking Cars, and the new Chevy Blazer EV SS AWD! 18:05

1d ago18:05

18:05

Houston reveals itself as a treasure trove of unexpected adventures for locals and visitors alike. From art deco aviation history to underwater shark tunnels, our exploration uncovers destinations perfect for beating the Texas heat and creating memorable experiences right in your backyard. The 1940 Air Terminal Museum at Hobby Airport stands as a s…

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Your Car Turns Off at Red Lights and Everyone Behind You Hates It 30:33

2d ago30:33

30:33

The frustrating reality of start-stop technology takes center stage in this eye-opening episode as we explore why this supposedly fuel-saving feature might be doing more harm than good. Through lively debate and personal experience, we unpack how that momentary engine shutdown at stoplights creates a ripple effect of delays for everyone on the road…

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Barn Finds: Montana's Hidden 600-Vehicle Treasure Trove 30:32

3d ago30:32

30:32

An automotive time capsule awaits discovery in the rolling hills of Montana where approximately 600 vehicles lie scattered across 100 acres of countryside. This extraordinary barn find collection, headed to auction through Vanderbrink Auctions, features everything from 1920s classics and vintage fire trucks to Plymouths, Rivieras, and even a rare 1…

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Volvo EX40, the Largest Car Collections, and the Land Rover Defender... 22:23

6d ago22:23

22:23

Automotive enthusiasts, buckle up for a three-course journey through the cutting edge of electric vehicles, the rarified world of elite car collections, and the rugged charm of an off-road icon reborn. We start by examining Volvo's latest electric offering—the 2025 EX40 Twin Motor Ultra AWD. Built in Belgium on the framework of last year's XC40, th…

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Car Talk, Auto Appraisals, and the Volvo EX40 review 29:16

6d ago29:16

29:16

Looking for straight talk about electric vehicles? Our review of the 2025 Volvo EX40 Twin Motor Ultra pulls no punches, exposing both impressive features and frustrating flaws in this Belgian-built EV. With 402 horsepower and advanced pixel headlight technology, the vehicle offers plenty of power and premium features—but requires navigating through…

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Across the Pond: Abarth, Radbourne Racing, and Car Collections 31:56

7d ago31:56

31:56

Automotive passion knows no borders in this fascinating exploration of European racing heritage and the world's most extraordinary car collections. We're joined by Lincoln Small, author of "Abarth Radborn Racing and Me," who transports us to the vibrant racing scene of 1960s Britain and Italy. Lincoln shares how he discovered Abarth's modified Fiat…

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The $75,000 Question: Why Ultra-Luxury Car Buyers Are Walking Away 29:54

9d ago29:54

29:54

The ripple effects of Trump's tariffs are sending shockwaves through luxury car dealerships across America, upending a market that remained resilient even during the pandemic and chip shortages. When customers start canceling orders for $750,000 Lamborghinis rather than pay an additional $75,000 in tariffs, something significant is happening. What …

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Rats on the Platte: Wild, Gritty Car Culture in Nebraska 31:01

10d ago31:01

31:01

Buckle up for a journey into the heart of authentic car culture with our exploration of Rats on the Platte, a rebellious celebration of automotive passion that thrives far from the polished showcases of mainstream car events. Speaking with organizers Jake Donahoe and Paula Sanada, we discover what makes this annual gathering in Mitchell, Nebraska a…

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White-Glove Car Selling: How Guys with Rides Connects Passionate Collectors 30:45

12d ago30:45

30:45

Rudy Samsel has created something special with Guys with Rides - a dealer-free marketplace where classic car enthusiasts can connect without the high fees and uneven playing field that plague traditional auction sites. As he explains to the In Wheel Time crew, his platform was born from frustration with how private sellers are treated at establishe…

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Savoy Auto Museum: An Automotive Adventure in Car History 30:38

14d ago30:38

30:38

Step inside the fascinating world of automotive history as we explore the impressive Savoy Automobile Museum in Cartersville, Georgia. Our guide Mary Agruza takes us on a captivating journey through time, revealing surprising connections between America's pioneering past and its automotive future. The museum houses a remarkable Studebaker collectio…

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Shifting Gears, Shifty Dealers, more Ford Recalls, and Classic Car Prices 30:11

16d ago30:11

30:11

Car buying should be exciting, not a minefield of potential fraud and deception. Yet two alarming lawsuits from Florida reveal the dark side of automotive retail, where unsuspecting customers discovered their "new" vehicles had hidden histories. One buyer found his pristine Land Cruiser had nearly 5,000 miles on the odometer despite being sold as f…

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Barn Finds, Vinyl Roofs, and the GMC Yukon Denali! 30:02

17d ago30:02

30:02

Step into the fascinating world of automotive treasures as we journey through the Savoy Automobile Museum in Cartersville, Georgia. Museum representative Mary Agrusa takes us on a captivating tour through their remarkable barn finds collection, where each vehicle tells an extraordinary story of discovery and preservation. From a GT350 Mustang with …

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From Classroom to Cruise Night: Danon's '78 Firebird Journey 31:06

20d ago31:06

31:06

Special In Wheel Time Replay - What happens when childhood dreams of muscle cars finally come true? Danon Hollinger joins us at the Lone Star Street Rod Association's 50th anniversary celebration to share her journey from Hot Rod magazine fan to proud owner of a gleaming white 1978 Pontiac Trans Am. Unlike most girls growing up, Danon decorated her…

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Automotive Racing Insights: Courtney Enders & The NHRA 28:38

21d ago28:38

28:38

Special In Wheel Time Replay - Courtney Enders brings her infectious energy and deep motorsports knowledge to this episode as she discusses her groundbreaking new role with NHRA TV. Far from leaving her position at Flow Racing, she explains how she'll balance multiple responsibilities while bringing fresh perspectives to drag racing broadcasting af…

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Hot Rod Culture with Scott Ingram: Vintage Rides 30:40

22d ago30:40

30:40

Special In Wheel Time Replay - Scott Ingram slides into the passenger seat with us, bringing along his showstopping orange 1932 Ford coupe and a treasure trove of hot rodding stories spanning nearly six decades. As one of the seven original founders of the Lone Star Street Rod Association, Scott represents the authentic spirit of hot rod culture—so…

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From Savoy's Classic Cars to the Lincoln Nautilus's Modern Luxury 28:49

23d ago28:49

28:49

A special In Wheel Time replay - Ever wandered through a museum where cars aren't just machines, but masterpieces? Mary Agrusa takes us inside the Savoy Auto Museum in Cartersville, Georgia, where vehicles are displayed with the reverence typically reserved for fine art. "We consider this really more an art museum dedicated to the automobile," Mary…

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Behind the Wheel of Texas’ Big Bend Open Road Race 32:01

24d ago32:01

32:01

Special In Wheel Time replay- Buckle up for a high-octane journey through Texas' most thrilling road race and cutting-edge automotive innovations. We're kicking things into high gear with Rhonda Palmer from the Big Bend Open Road Race, giving us an insider's look at what makes this 59-mile stretch between Fort Stockton and Sanderson the ultimate dr…

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Drag Racing's Comeback: IHRA Revival 29:52

27d ago29:52

29:52

Drag racing fans rejoice! The International Hot Rod Association is roaring back to life with a racer-friendly approach that challenges the status quo of professional drag racing. Division Director Doug Foley joins the In Wheel Time podcast to share how IHRA is reinventing itself after years in the shadows of larger sanctioning bodies. The biggest n…

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The Future of Electric Vehicles: Hype vs Reality 30:48

28d ago30:48

30:48

Are electric vehicles at a crossroads? This question drives our enlightening conversation with renowned automotive expert Jack Nerad, who joins us from California to share his perspectives on the current state of EVs and the automotive industry at large. Range anxiety emerges as a genuine dealbreaker rather than a minor inconvenience. When Mike sha…

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Texas 4th of July - Muscle Car Love - '25 Stelvia review! 16:06

1M ago16:06

16:06

Ready for an explosive Fourth of July? Our latest episode delivers your ultimate guide to celebrating Independence Day across Texas, highlighting spectacular destinations that cater to every preference. Discover why Addison's Kaboom Town ranks as the nation's third-best fireworks display, drawing 400,000 visitors with its impressive aerial shows an…

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Sprint Cars Showdown 29:52

1M ago29:52

29:52

Buckle up for a high-octane conversation as we welcome Owen Pittman, the dynamic promoter behind Houston Motorsports Park and its sister track in Corpus Christi. With the adrenaline-pumping Elite 410 Wingless Sprint Car event just days away, Pittman gives us an exclusive preview of what promises to be one of the most electrifying races of the seaso…

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Drive or Be Driven: The Future of Automated Cars? 31:28

1M ago31:28

31:28

Driver assistance technologies are facing a major identity crisis according to a revealing new JD Power white paper. While automakers invest billions into developing these systems, consumers remain largely unimpressed and unwilling to pay premium prices for features they don't trust. This fascinating disconnect forms the centerpiece of our discussi…

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Death Wish on Wheels: Colorado's Most Terrifying Motorsport 30:14

1M ago30:14

30:14

Racing up Pikes Peak might seem like a death wish to outsiders, but for automotive daredevils, it represents the ultimate adrenaline rush. This episode takes you inside the 103-year-old Pikes Peak International Hill Climb through the eyes of Richard Tomlin from Apex Auto Works, whose passion for this legendary race is as steep as the mountain itsel…

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Elmo's Not Just a Muppet: Estonia's Remote Driving Solution 30:27

1M ago30:27

30:27

The future of transportation isn't what you think. While autonomous vehicles grab headlines, a different revolution is already happening – remote driving technology that puts humans behind virtual wheels, controlling vehicles from anywhere on earth. Speaking with Enn Lanoo, CEO of Estonia-based Elmo Remote Driving, we discovered a technology that's…

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Chrome & Cannonballs: Pink Panthers, Plum Crazy, and Texas Swimming Spots 15:37

1M ago15:37

15:37

Seeking refuge from Texas summer heat? Join us as we uncover the most spectacular swimming holes and natural pools scattered across the Lone Star State. From the iconic Barton Springs Pool in Austin, where 68-degree spring-fed waters provide year-round relief, to the emerald paradise of Wimberley's Blue Hole nestled among towering cypress trees, we…

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The Return of the HEMI: Ram Trucks' Customer-Driven Revival 26:56

1M ago26:56

26:56

The triumphant return of the HEMI V8 engine to Ram trucks headlines this information-packed episode featuring Nick Cappa, Ram Trucks Communications Manager. Customer demand has spoken loudly, bringing back this iconic powerplant that so many truck enthusiasts crave for its distinctive sound, predictable torque, and authentic driving experience. Ram…

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0-60 in 2-seconds Corvette : Rolling Home on Wheels - the 2025 Suburban! 30:00

1M ago30:00

30:00

Ever wonder what happens when engineering goes too far? That's the question we tackle head-on as we dive into Chevrolet's most extreme creation yet - the 2026 Corvette ZR1X. With a jaw-dropping 1,250 horsepower and the ability to hit 60 mph in under two seconds, this electrified beast pushes boundaries in ways that left us asking "why?" and "for wh…

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Flathead Fever: The 317-Inch Wonder 30:40

1M ago30:40

30:40

Scott Ingram's orange 1932 Ford coupe gleams in the Texas sun, but this isn't some pampered show car – it's traveled 350,000 miles over 57 years and counting. As one of the seven original founders of the Lone Star Street Rod Association, 78-year-old Scott embodies the true spirit of hot rodding: build it, drive it, enjoy it. "I've been coast to coa…

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Hot Rods and Heartland: How Granbury Became the Celebration Capital of Texas 30:47

2M ago30:47

30:47

Tucked away just over an hour from Dallas-Fort Worth lies Granbury, Texas – a lakeside town that's become something of a well-kept secret among travelers seeking authentic Texas charm without the crowds. Our broadcast from the Lone Star Street Rod Association's 50th anniversary state run reveals why this hidden gem has earned the official designati…

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Car Talk: LSSRA Vintage Car Enthusiasts Share Their Stories 1:00:52

2M ago1:00:52

1:00:52

When classic car lovers gather, stories flow as freely as chrome gleams in the Texas sun. From the Lone Star Street Rod Association's 50th Anniversary celebration in Granbury, we discover the human connections behind these metal masterpieces. Meet Danon Hollinger, who grew up with hot rod magazine fold-outs on her bedroom headboard instead of pop s…

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Salt Flats Speed: One Man's Bonneville Journey 31:24

2M ago31:24

31:24

Hot rods, salt flats, and the sweet sound of engines revving—welcome to a special episode of the In Wheel Time Car Talk Show, broadcast live from the 50th anniversary of the Lone Star Street Rod Association State Run in Granbury, Texas. The centerpiece of our show features Don Grouleff and his remarkable Model A hot rod, emblazoned with the racing …

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Hot Rod Heaven: The 50th Lone Star Street Rod Association 29:53

2M ago29:53

29:53

The rumble of engines, gleaming chrome, and stories spanning generations fill the air as we broadcast live from the Lone Star Street Rod Association's 50th Anniversary State Run in Granbury, Texas. Father's Day weekend provides the perfect backdrop for this celebration of automotive passion that bridges past and present. Our first guest, Steven Rog…

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Muscle Car Dreams: Gary Peterson Reveals Shelby's Modern Magic 30:15

2M ago30:15

30:15

Step into the high-octane world of automotive excellence as we go behind the scenes with Gary Peterson, President of Shelby American. From the company's iconic Las Vegas facility, Peterson reveals the meticulous process of transforming standard Ford Mustangs into 810-horsepower Shelby GT350s that carry the legacy of Carroll Shelby's performance phi…

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Corvette Chronicles: Inside the Fifth Edition 30:01

2M ago30:01

30:01

Mike Mueller's passion for America's sports car radiates throughout our conversation about his newly released fifth edition of "The Complete Book of Corvette." Weighing in at a hefty 15 pounds and spanning 352 pages of stunning photography and detailed history, this comprehensive volume tracks the complete evolution of Corvette from its earliest da…

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Twisted Sisters, Lucky Helmets, and the Buick Envista! 16:55

2M ago16:55

16:55

Ready for a driving adventure that combines family fun with hair-raising curves? Buckle up as we journey through Texas Hill Country to discover the legendary "Twisted Sisters" – a 100-mile loop featuring a breathtaking 15-mile stretch packed with 65 challenging curves. This driving paradise begins in Medina and winds through Leakey, offering specta…

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AdventureGenie: What if AI could plan your entire RVacation in seconds? 31:03

2M ago31:03

31:03

Imagine transforming what used to take hours or even days of travel research into mere seconds. That's exactly what Scott Lengel and his team at AdventureGenie are doing with their revolutionary AI-powered trip planning tool designed specifically for RV travelers and road trip enthusiasts. Scott joins the In Wheel Time podcast to unveil how Adventu…

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The "Skateboard Effect" Has Finally Come for Your Combustion Engine 30:46

2M ago30:46

30:46

Ford's Vice Chair John Lawler recently dropped a bombshell that's sent ripples through the automotive world: combustion engines will no longer be brand differentiators and automakers will increasingly source them from suppliers to stay competitive against low-cost rivals, particularly from China. For generations, car manufacturers have built their …

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Stuttgart's Secret: Randy Leffingwell Unlocks Porsche's Legacy 30:46

2M ago30:46

30:46

What makes a Porsche feel unlike any other car on the road? That's the question we explore with automotive author Randy Leffingwell as he joins us to discuss his definitive work, "Porsche 911: Every Model Since 1964." In this fascinating conversation, Randy shares how his lifelong passion for these iconic German sports cars began with his uncle's P…

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Behind the Scenes: Short Track Racing, Dodge Durango, and Track Announcing 29:41

2M ago29:41

29:41

Dive into the surprising economics of grassroots motorsports as we uncover a factory stock race offering an astonishing $30,000 to win, attracting 137 entries from across the region. Our special guest Rodney Rodriguez, track announcer extraordinaire, breaks down how these seemingly "affordable" race cars have evolved into sophisticated machines cos…

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Why aren't you moving? The ambulances, beaches, and V8s changing our roads 14:25

2M ago14:25

14:25

Ever wonder why some people don't move for ambulances? Or what makes Port Aransas the perfect beach getaway? Or perhaps why the Dodge Durango still commands respect after 14 years with the same design? We tackle all these questions and more in this fascinating exploration of automotive culture and travel destinations. We kick things off with a deta…

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US News 2025 Teen Vehicle Rankings 30:44

2M ago30:44

30:44

Ever wondered what car you should buy for your teen driver? The latest US News and World Report rankings have just been released, and they're packed with surprises that might change how you approach this important decision. During our conversation with Zach Doell from US News, we uncovered the fascinating dominance of Hyundai in the 2025 Best Cars …

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Shifting Away: How Technology is Killing the Stick Shift 30:49

2M ago30:49

30:49

The humble manual transmission is quietly disappearing from American roads, and most drivers haven't even noticed. Nissan recently halted production of manual transmission Versa for the US market, effectively ending America's last five-speed manual econobox. With fewer than 5% of buyers choosing the stick shift option and automatic transmissions no…

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Tariffs and EVs: Auto Industry at a Crossroads 30:24

2M ago30:24

30:24

The electric vehicle revolution may be hitting a roadblock. Auto expert Jack Nerad joins us to unpack why we might have already reached "peak EV" in the American market. With gas prices low in most states and consumer interest waning, Nerad explains why the billions invested by certain automakers in all-electric futures may have been premature. Div…

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Car Culture Classics: From Milk Trucks to Muscle Cars 30:27

2M ago30:27

30:27

What makes a classic car collectible? Is it rarity, performance, or simply being in the right place at the right market moment? Our Birthday Weekend Special dives deep into these questions through a fascinating exploration of automotive unicorns – those vehicles that almost made history but vanished before their time. The episode kicks off with our…

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Gearheads Rejoice: Rare Cars, Raptors and Secret Spots 13:58

2M ago13:58

13:58

Beyond the highways and byways lies a world of hidden automotive treasures most people never discover. Our journey begins in Houston, uncovering six remarkable destinations that fly under most visitors' radars. We explore the Sam Houston Boat Tour, offering free 90-minute cruises that reveal the bustling Port of Houston from a completely different …

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From Grocery Stores to Racing Legends: A Saturday Morning Car Talk 30:27

2M ago30:27

30:27

Roger Penske's integrity-first approach rocks the racing world as Team Penske faces unprecedented sanctions just days before the Indianapolis 500. We break down exactly what happened—modified attenuators on Josef Newgarden and Will Power's cars sent both championship contenders to the back of the grid, while three top Penske executives were fired. …

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Yellow Dreams: A Lifetime of Automotive Passion 31:13

2M ago31:13

31:13

What happens when you love a car so much you keep it for half a century? Steve Larsen knows. As our special guest this week, he shares the incredible journey chronicled in his book "My Heart Has Been In It From the Start," featuring what he calls his "Yellow Trilogy" - three iconic yellow vehicles that paralleled major chapters in his life. Steve's…

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Summer Road Trip Essentials: Getting Your Car Ready for the Journey Ahead 30:42

2M ago30:42

30:42

Your summer road trip deserves more than just a quick rinse at the gas station car wash. In this engaging episode, we're joined by detailing expert Cireen Piz from Gulf Coast Auto Shield who reveals professional-grade car cleaning secrets that anyone can use at home. Ever wondered why your dashboard keeps cracking despite using Armor All? Cireen ex…