I love Kenny. The best NASCAR race ever was a rain delay. Kenny, Harvick, and Schrader were given camera men and cruised around the track creating mischief. Just awesome. Been a fan of Kenny ever since.
My brother started with Jack Roush in 98.He was interviewed by our hometown paper about how he liked it.He had worked 17 hours a day for SEVERAL days.His answer to the question was "BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU WISH FOR."
In the late 90s my cousin toured me thru Pettys shop. He was the gas man on Sundays for John Andretti #43 and also worked in the body shop during the week. He was making close to 100k at the time, but gone all the time and lots of hours. Its a devotion more than a job!
A good friend of mine was a tire changer for an Indy team. He lasted about 2 1/2 years. He wasn’t a big guy, but he was fit and strong and played D2 football. He said he looked forward to the races so he got a break from working so much. He said that he basically changed tires all day, every day to get the rhythm and timing down for race day. Even in his early 20’s, his body was constantly sore. He was continually treated for strains and minor injuries. He made good money, but was never home and had no time to spend it. Part of the way through his third season, he got a back injury that sidelined him for about 6 weeks. He came back, but was then fired because his performance slipped and his replacement was faster. I met him a couple years after his stint with Indy. We raced some SCCA type stuff together. Even at 26-27 years old, he moaned and groaned like an old man if he had to get up and down to change a tire on his car, or work on his brakes or whatever. He said it was fun for the stories and stuff, but he’d never do it again because of what it did to his body. Since he was always gone, he had a small nest egg that paid for his down payment on his house. That’s all he got out of it. He’s about 50 now and I haven’t spoken to him in several years, but last I heard, he was selling crop seed in Iowa.
Right on. I started in the racing business in 1978 until 2014 as a owner, driver, builder, parts store and with the help from my family owned accounting business reality set in fast and when I explain to my customers how much it cost per night without wrecking and including the hauler expenses they can't comprehend the actual cost. That's why they usually go from one maxed out credit card to the next
😊I remember that 1 time I was one of your sponsors! Made me so happy to be able to put my name and my grandfather's name on your car so you could race that week. I still have that beautiful photo of you and the car (that you sent me) on the wall on my staircase and I smile at you every morning as I am coming down to start my day. ❤
@@Aaron25thinfantry 2001 would have been a great championship battle. Dale had a great 2000 season, then Harvick finished 9th in points in Dale's car as a rookie (who missed a race and competed full-time in the Busch series).
@@chadchadchadchadchad You're dreaming, Dale wasn't a serious contender for a cup since 1994, the only tracks he was competitive at were the plate tracks, 4 races a year. The last 5 years of his career he was average...He did come in 2nd to Bobby in 2000, but Bobby won easily, and he came in 2nd in 1995 to Jeff Gordon, but the rest of those years he was mid pack. To suggest he would have dominated at 50 years old in 2001 is a stretch....
Herman, Your are doing exactly what it takes to make money racing. Having a monetized UA-cam channel talking about racing with a big boat load of subscribers.
This is by far the hottest thing going right now. The info Kenny Wallace brings to us, the peasant race fans, is simply amazing. Thank you for taking us behind the scenes, and de-bullshitting everything for us, Herman.
I hear ya Kenny. When I raced my asphalt street stock at I 70 Speedway. Most I made was $50. That covered my $20 entry fee and fuel for 1 Saturday night. I did it all on my own dime. I worked a salvage yard in Kansas City. Was given parts. That’s it for my sponsors.
I raced for years never had much success but I loved it nonetheless if you can afford it go for it but make no mistake don’t neglect the family for fun
My local track was expensive, so the following year, my friend & I did ambulance duty at the track; after that, I worked a corner in a truck, & wrecker duty. We got paid a flat hamburger & a coke. I worked CORR events, supplied the corner guys with drinks a few times, & worked as a corner flag man; I got a neon T-shirt, a dry hotdog, an energy drink, & I collected all the dust & sunburn as a reward.
This podcast is the good side of social media. Learning more about our favorite interests and becoming a fan of drivers like Kenny and Dale Jr in my 30s seeing how relatable they truly are. Two of the most transparent men of our sport.
Kenny, watched you race for years. You tell it like it is. Always learn something from every one of your videos. Your sense of humor is second to none. Even when your serious, you put a good spin on it. Thanks Brother you make us all smile.
I remember Kenny coming along in Cup, as we're the same age. He is the funniest guy in motorsports, by far. I remember Kenny driving a "Super Chicken" on some show on Speed, I think, and he was driving against some guy in a Lambo on a road course. When the race first started, nobody knew who was driving the T/A and Kenny beat this guy in a new Lamborghini against Kenny in a '76-'77 Trans Am with a 455 S.D. under the hood. It was hilarious when Kenny beat him and he took off his blacked out full face helmet and the Lambo guy started whining about Kenny blocking him, blah, blah, blah. Funny stuff. Kenny's videos are some of the most interesting and informative there are on here.
I feel you on a similar level, Kenny. People think because I have 116,000 subscribers and 10s of millions of video views on UA-cam that I am just rolling in money, when that's not the case at all. In the past month I have had to suddenly spend about $6000 and it's just about breaking me. I don't have any sponsors, would love some to come on board, but I survive 99% off of ad revenue. People think they know everything, but when it comes right down to the facts, it turns out they don't know much! "Timing and circumstances" is about as true of a statement as ever too, I agree. Thanks for de-BSing as always, Kenny. One of the real ones out here!
Reverend Kenny, thank you for preaching the truth to the masses. I raced LMS between 1990 and 2000. We traveled to paved tracks around western Canada. In ten years the largest cash sponsor I had provided me with $5,000.00 a year. We had several sponsors that paid us $250.00 to $1,000.00 for a season. There were also sponsors who provided products to us in exchange for signage on the car and team uniforms. My personal expenditure every season was about $25,000.00 a year. The viewers also need to understand that you need a truck and a trailer. There are also more miles put onto the truck and trailer every year then the race car will ever see. The cost of fuel, maintenance and repair are all on top of the actual at track, running the event expenses, and you need to feed and provide a bed for your crew. The largest payout I ever received was $350.00 for running 9th in a 15-car race with a total purse of $5,000.00. The winner got $1,500. My best night of racing at my home track was winning 2 of the heat races and taking 2nd in the feature. I got $100.00. Doing it for the love or the addiction to the sport is the only reasoning you can put to it and hope that your spouse is understanding or at the extreme, supportive of everything. Having my kids cheer for me is still the biggest thrill. Since racing I have moved into restoring classic cars. I have done 4 builds in the last 20 + years. I miss racing and I have to limit going to my local track or the mistress might come calling.
Thanks for the real talk Herm! I miss the days watching You , Rusty , Senior ,Schrader and all the other guys when nascar was REAL! When drivers could make a car better because they new how to drive!!! Love the video's sir !! Keep up the good work!
Kenny, I really wanted to ask the question, how do you go about talking to someone for sponsors. I know you're famous and busier than a one-handed paper-hanger, but I would love to know how to go talk to someone about sponsoring. Thanks.
@@jonathanburkhead681 There’s a couple of books on that. For average driver/owners, on average you can sometimes get some agreements with folks for a little promotion in exchange for a little money to partially help with average expenses. Sometimes you’ll get lucky; maybe 1 out of 150-250 serious sit-down proposals on average you will get a very good response and a fantastic sponsorship contract with those guides. But better- and few can do this well- is to have a really good promotional value written out and detailed where you heavily invest yourself in a lot of ‘appearances’ for the benefit of the sponsor. And you sell that, and you perform that. Some drivers are good at getting people to give them money, a surprising number of average guys are very good at that. But you don’t want to be looking for sponsors who will give you money. You want sponsors for whom you are providing value to, to whom you are performing a service for and giving them great value. Sell THAT. Then you will be above average, get above average money, and be developing your name as a brand that people - sponsors- know they can trust and depend on. Oh, you better be pulling of some good finishes, too, and your car outa look like you care. Once you understand that this is a business and you represent your ‘stickers’ and names on the car well, and promote like John Force, Kevin Harvick, Wallace, or even Hailee Deegan for that matter. Go back and listen to Kyle Bush and others (like Harvick) who have stated it’s not about performance anymore, it’s about if you can bring money (sponsors) with you. So you build a brand (you, yours) and parlay that. And your ability to sell in the boardroom for a win is more important than the top fives; or starting out it’s more important to bring the team and friends to fill every seat at Jeremy & Sara’s Pasta and Steakhouse (who are on your rear quarter) and guerrilla market them to death. Easy for me to say- I haven’t done it. In racing. But I’ve sold a lot of things and run in the top ten of my ‘segment’ by being honest, selling myself, and providing people value. There’s always a better salesman; there’s very few that create relationships and value.
Thank you for spilling the beans! Money is a rare subject in racing. When some hothead wrecks another racer after we find out that no one is hurt, I think “ there’s a couple of hundred thou down the drain! Cup tires are ( from what I have recently heard) $500 each…and how many sets are used each race? And brakes and transmissions and rear gears and body panels and wraps…. it is a very very expensive game, and it won’t be competitive if you don’t have the very best in every aspect. Two seconds because you have a bad pit stop, you loose 3-8 places. What did that cost you at the end of the race? It just boggles my mind when the whole financial aspect is evaluated. Good on ya for tackling a complicated subject. And you were great to see in the booth!
You are a very lucky man to have the complete support of your family. I wish you were in the booth. You are my favorite announcer, ever! Thank you for the work you put into this channel!
The best info … in 1992-98 I ran a dirt modified , sucked my bussiness dry of money and time . I basically ate pb&j sandwiches for 6 years straight because my food money went to racing with not enough sponsorship . Went back to go karts . Still love modified dirt cars but prices are crazy . U have been my favorite driver my entire life , love the way u say it like it is . Great info keep rt foot down ,
No surprises. I know a guy on the Lucas Late Model tour. It probably costs him near $1,000,000 a year to run his racing operation. Those Scott twins in dirt racing, well their Grandma owns half of Arizona (well, maybe not but might as well for as wealthy as she is).
@@boossersgarage3239I’m grateful I have a mind that is big enough to not be filled up and bored in just two minutes. Successful thinkers value context and understand the value of information in context. You think it’s just information because you have no vision.
@@boossersgarage3239 that's his MO. Bottom line is any full time racing is a gypsy lifestyle. Much easier to work for the man @$30/ save some $$ and retire.
Your brother Rusty did fairly nice himself. Heck, He sells every brand of car there is. The two of you were my favorite drivers. Thanks Kenny. (Hermanator)
Kenny you are 100% correct I have been dirt late model racing 44yrs never had big sponsors but I appreciated everyone that ever helped me I do it for the love of the sport and I have always loved trying new ideas to see if I can make the car faster but I wouldn't be able to do it without having a full time real job 👍👍🏁🏁
Thank you for laying this out for us. 65 years old and my grandson is starting 270 micro sprints. I can't say no, but damn this shit is expensive! His heart is in it and what can I do! I loved watching you and hope the best for you and your family
Kenny, you may have just dashed the dreams of a lot of starry eyed young guys and gals that think they are the next Kyle or Chase, but Thank You for being honest and doing the dirty work that these young drivers need this eye opening truth!! This video should be MANDITORY for all those that have "the dream" of being a full time Racecar Driver!!
NASCAR has lost the fan base of just a few years ago. The motorways had to paint the seats different colors so when the camera pans past the seating, the empty seats aren't as noticeable. The phony noose scam didn't help either.
I'm getting into lawn tractor pulling. First pull, smoked the clutch. Currently installing a 550 dollar highly upgraded unit to make sure it doesn't happen again. I'll probably never make that money back in winnings, but I love every penny spent trying to get that win!!! Great info!!!
I'm glad you explained it Kenny! I knew there wasn't that much money in racing and the need for sponsors. I think all those stickers look cool anyway, you can see what happens when they're not sponsored because they're running in the back most of the time & who the hell wants to run last....
Really like your style Kenny. No fluff, just facts. Real world stuff delivered with a smile. Great job. Love St. Louis, stay safe and see you on the next video! Thanks!
I always get nostalgic when seeing your race shop! My boss ran a high end used dealership. His son ran dirt late models. I wound up not only detailing but working as part of the race team. Thank you for bringing back memories of so many shop conversations! 🏁
Great info. I’ve always wondered how the nascar guys get paid, taxes, insurance etc. I’d love more info on the inner workings big teams. Another show just talked about llc, marketing etc. these are good new subjects. Been a fan since 1979 and just learned a lot. Thanks🇺🇸
Great insight and analysis Herminator! In the boom days, I wonder what kind of contracts Jeff, Jimmie, Jr, Tony and Carl had, it must have been huge guarantees and big percentages of the purses. The sponsorships were enormous, as were the team budgets. Even with inflation, I suspect that the top teams spent more 20 years ago than they do now.
Kenny , I've been in business my whole life. Your story isn't much different than anyone in business, except your doing what you love. I think your very lucky.
i worked for a dirt modified team doing engines ,we raced 11 out of 14 days and we all had full time jobs as well ,what the public doesnt see is all the hours we put in ,staying in motels between race tracks ,, getting up at seven in morning going for breakfast and heading to a carwash to clean car and do maintenance from night before, reload trailer and head to next track , race that night ,leave track at midnight after getting paid ,, travel in middle of night to next track , have been all over canada and usa through many cities never to visit any of them ,, it was all you could see looking out a truck window at two A.M. in the morning . yes we,ve met many people during our travels but never really become close friends, racing is alot of work and you may even get some fame or noteriety out of it , its not as glamourous as the public thinks it is, racing cost me family time and a divorce in the end
That’s why Kenny is my favorite nascar/racing personality!! Can’t wait for Dale Sr. to come back and tell his story on why he left!! I respect him more after he left, than I liked him before he left…..
Kenny, as a long time race fan with my dad, he and I often talk about the “real deal” and you confirmed so much of what we speculated on. Drivers at your level that want to compete even regionally aren’t doing it with their own money!! Anyone who thinks that is just plain uneducated as a fan and even worse a poor business model for a driver. All the behind the scenes stuff like fuel in the toterhome, gate fees, eating, hotel, insurance, it all adds up and equals just as you simply stated- sponsors who love racing as much as you do as a driver to finance the addiction. I applaud you for keeping it “real” Kenny! 👍👍
This dude is smart!! Realistic and see both sides!! Good people too!! I can’t get off this channel! Scales and traveling with them got me. Going down road 3 hours to race and not having scales.
So good Kenny. Grew up watching late model racers in Colorado in the 70s. We had a top notch guy name of Wayne Stallsworth, won a lot had good equipment with strong sponsors. Thought he had it made-come to find out he was an over the road trucker for Safeway, needed the job to feed his family. Man had a passion and ability but was not really making a living. A real eye opener for me. You did it right Herm, smart with the real estate and timing. God bless ya.
Man I don't care what anybody makes I have to worry about myself good for you guys God bless I have to leave on 1400 dollars a month and it's really hard good for you guys I love my racing
@@pulsarlights2825; But, some people have Principles about what they will do to make A Living. Integrity won't Pay Bills, but being able to Look in The Mirror & Living With Oneself is Reality also. 😐
True facts have been given. My family raced local tracks in Virginia and North Carolina. My dad was on pit crew and it nearly broke the bank. Racing is a grind like no other, it’s truly a passion project. We did race against Elton Sawyer, which most people in racing know made it to the big time. Knew him before he got famous, ran Langley Speedway.
Very cool that you did this video. Could you do one where you tell us roughly what the sponsors pay? Size of decal, placement etc. would be cool to hear some numbers on that. Really hope to meet you one day. So friends and I go to Michigan every year.
Couldn’t of hit the play button on this video. Think i can speak for every nascar fan when I said this is one of the most thought about and asked question in racing history
Thanks Kenny, all forms of motor racing have the same outcome whether you are racing Supercross, NHRA Pro Stock, and NASCAR. You can start out rich but in the end, spending your own money is going to hurt.
I'm just getting back into dirt track after being out for about 10 years. Just last weekend I went a dropped a pile of cash on a new to me trailer. Nicest trailer I've owned, for the nicest car I've had. All out of my pocket. Never had sponsors besides my own shop. Definitely been there, from borrowing trucks to get to the track, to going to tire shops to get scrap lead to make my own weight
You hit it on the nail head, I raced for the love of dirt racing, been at tracks all my life, my dad had a late model when we were kids, me and my brother raced what we could with what we had, there was no money being made we would work our butts off all week to get to go racing on the weekend!! if you won the money you were lucky if you broke even for the night, and put the money right back in the car!! We had sponsors, but ya get what ya can for the car, and take and put it all in the car!! Just for love of the sport is why we did it!!
Dang Herman, that pop you just heard was my dreams, up in smoke! I worked a race team, small little group, back in the eighties. Only thing we got paid was lunch, which didn't even pay for gas getting to the shop and leaving after midnight. But I loved what I & the team did. My dream was busted long ago in the mud, chasing the Goodyear hauler, prepping after every time on the track. A gig for only the young. But what an experience.
Love ya Kenny, you are not a dumb ass. Those folks who are ALL NARROW MINDED as to think that it's all gravy. Love in a box. Back in November we met you and your wife at Charlotte airport you both were very nice. Wish we could have chated a sec. But I figured that at the airport wasn't the best place. And looked like you guys were trying to find a flight. We have watched you face and you are that same person in person as you are on tv. THANKS FOR BEING A NORMAL PEOPLE It means a lot. Stay and have a blessed life.
100% truth. I've been blessed to do this but I advise anyone to be careful what you wish for. When the car is turned around by noon and you don't race until 7 day after day for an entire summer it gets old really fast.
Best video on UA-cam in my opinion I get tired of explaining to people how at the short track level we don’t make money sometimes if we are really lucky we break even
This is a great subject... Start at the beginning with Quarter Midgets!!! Some kids play Basketball. Some kids play Baseball. Some play Football... And family's have a large investment in that. And then there are travel teams... Not much different than the Quarters, Micros, Minis... Sponsors are soooo necessary! Thank you Kenny!
Thank you Kenny. Yes. Real Estate is the answer. We all learned that growing up so we all know its true. 4 green houses...1 red hotel. DJI is also correct as you stated. Hope to meet you one day. Thanks again.
Great video herm. Dont know any people in nascar. My son and I race flat karts in NY. All the money comes from the family owned wrecking yard. I tell my son all the time go to school get a good education. After watching this, showed my 13 year old and said there it is from a nascar guy.. Great to see someone still speaks the truth...
One of the most informative and smartest fellas to ever sit behind the wheel of a race car. Too many people just look at him as a goofy, funny, good time guy but ole Herm knows his sh*t! Wooooo
Excellent job! I am also 60 and simply wont/can't live on a track burger with 4 (stinky) guys in the hauler. When your 18, different story. I have responsibilities. I know some rock musicians, same story......
Just came across you on here Kenny , saw you in the pits at Bubba last year, you're pretty cool! nice piece of work on this post, look forward to some more ( sponsored by Jegs of course )!
I was lucky enough to live next door to a dirt track stock car racer and in general he told me pretty much the same stuff that Kenny said in this video, so like Kenny said if you want to go to Nascar you better either be independently wealthy or find some good and loyal sponsors at the dirt short track level with the hopes of doing good enough to get noticed by the people who can help you work your way up the ladder towards the Cup series, level by level hoping that your talents and abilities will keep getting the attention of team owners and sponsors to help you make your way up towards the Cup series and even if you make it you have to have as good a driving record as possible to get the attention of team owners and sponsors who hopefully keep you competitive if you've pretty much proved yourself as a driver but then you still have to prove yourself as being able to be competitive and attract sponsors and even if you prove you're another Hamlin, Harvick, or even another Jimmy Johnson, you still have to prove that not only are you competitive, but you're a winner often enough that at least one 1⃣ team owner will be interested in you, and only after at least several fairly successful seasons can you even begin to think about shopping yourself around hoping you've impressed enough people to be able to be lucky enough to be with a team for the next season and only if you happen to be a Hamlin, or Harvick, or Johnson can you even hope to be asked by anybody to drive for them after a losing or break even season and if you do get lucky enough to get seat invitations you'll be starting all over again hoping you can prove you're competitive enough to catch someone's attention (team owner , sponsor,or both) to start the vicious circle all over again for as many years as you possibly can and we've all seen that very few if any Jeff Gordons or Tony Stewarts or Buschs , or Loganos come along but once maybe twice every 10 , 15 , or even 20 years and Nascar Grow with the Pettys , Allisons , Jarretts, , and yeah the Earnhardts my point being that all of the family Dynasties and single stars spent years working their way up to the Cup series and only the best regardless of their last names had successful careers in Nascar and very few of the local dirt short track aces with Nascar dreams are ever lucky enough to make it up to any of the top 3 series in Nascar , allof which has been my long winded attempt to back up what Kenny Wallace was saying in his video, and I apologize to anyone who I bored with my comments and with all that said I'll back out of here sincerely hoping I at least gave y'all something to have a conversation about , and I hope y'all have a good one 1⃣ 😊😅😮😂❤😂❤😊❤
Excellent breakdown here of the reality of the dream. To be honest, I wasn’t aware of the extent of race car driver salaries. Appreciate the knowledge! Great job Herman!
Its alot like Hollywood. You have to be strong and stay and make what you can. This sport as its known will take everything including heart and soul. I know this personally.
Love the Musial t-shirt. Yes!!! He's still The Man! As usual ... great content from a guy that knows what he's talking about. Not some guy who "thinks" he knows. Kenny knows because he's lived it! Great advice in there for young people ... whether they're in racing or not.
Been there, Booth-wise ! Super Musial T-Shirt ! Would appreciate similar Videos on Formula1, Indy Car & Team Info... Financial Situation Driving for Roger Penske, Stewart-Hass and KRF. Super Info ! ❤🫡👍👍
Thank you for the Video Kenny, I'm going to be 70 Jan 8th, I lived in DeSoto in my youth in the 1960s, south of you. I remember going to Fenton at a Asphalt track maybe valley park? and watched your dad & Rusty drive. was a long time ago, retired in Columbia Mo, so I always get your family & your Videos. Always considered the Wallace's part of the family. have fun Racing! & be careful.🙂
I love Kenny. The best NASCAR race ever was a rain delay. Kenny, Harvick, and Schrader were given camera men and cruised around the track creating mischief. Just awesome. Been a fan of Kenny ever since.
My brother started with Jack Roush in 98.He was interviewed by our hometown paper about how he liked it.He had worked 17 hours a day for SEVERAL days.His answer to the question was "BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU WISH FOR."
Great informative video,keep them coming driver.....
In the late 90s my cousin toured me thru Pettys shop. He was the gas man on Sundays for John Andretti #43 and also worked in the body shop during the week. He was making close to 100k at the time, but gone all the time and lots of hours. Its a devotion more than a job!
A good friend of mine was a tire changer for an Indy team. He lasted about 2 1/2 years. He wasn’t a big guy, but he was fit and strong and played D2 football. He said he looked forward to the races so he got a break from working so much. He said that he basically changed tires all day, every day to get the rhythm and timing down for race day. Even in his early 20’s, his body was constantly sore. He was continually treated for strains and minor injuries. He made good money, but was never home and had no time to spend it. Part of the way through his third season, he got a back injury that sidelined him for about 6 weeks. He came back, but was then fired because his performance slipped and his replacement was faster.
I met him a couple years after his stint with Indy. We raced some SCCA type stuff together. Even at 26-27 years old, he moaned and groaned like an old man if he had to get up and down to change a tire on his car, or work on his brakes or whatever. He said it was fun for the stories and stuff, but he’d never do it again because of what it did to his body. Since he was always gone, he had a small nest egg that paid for his down payment on his house. That’s all he got out of it. He’s about 50 now and I haven’t spoken to him in several years, but last I heard, he was selling crop seed in Iowa.
Right on. I started in the racing business in 1978 until 2014 as a owner, driver, builder, parts store and with the help from my family owned accounting business reality set in fast and when I explain to my customers how much it cost per night without wrecking and including the hauler expenses they can't comprehend the actual cost. That's why they usually go from one maxed out credit card to the next
Kenny it's about time some told the general public what it costs to be independent racer. Great Show.
😊I remember that 1 time I was one of your sponsors! Made me so happy to be able to put my name and my grandfather's name on your car so you could race that week. I still have that beautiful photo of you and the car (that you sent me) on the wall on my staircase and I smile at you every morning as I am coming down to start my day. ❤
Hey Kenny I’ll never forget you pushing Dale to his 76th and final win 🏆 You stayed with him he came from way back …Great memories
Legendary! Would have loved to have seen Dale go for an 8th Championship.
@@Aaron25thinfantry 2001 would have been a great championship battle. Dale had a great 2000 season, then Harvick finished 9th in points in Dale's car as a rookie (who missed a race and competed full-time in the Busch series).
@@chadchadchadchadchad You're dreaming, Dale wasn't a serious contender for a cup since 1994, the only tracks he was competitive at were the plate tracks, 4 races a year. The last 5 years of his career he was average...He did come in 2nd to Bobby in 2000, but Bobby won easily, and he came in 2nd in 1995 to Jeff Gordon, but the rest of those years he was mid pack. To suggest he would have dominated at 50 years old in 2001 is a stretch....
Kenny should have spun him, out like Earnhardt did to Rusty at Talladega in 1993..Kenny deserved ONE cup won over Dale's 70 plus.
@@pulsarlights2825 , rusty was blocking dale at 200mph and dale wasn't letting off, plain and simple, rusty should have known better.
Herman, Your are doing exactly what it takes to make money racing.
Having a monetized UA-cam channel talking about racing with a big boat load of subscribers.
He don’t have a boat load of subscribers. The millennial farmer in Minnesota I watch has over a million subscribers, he is making money on UA-cam
This is by far the hottest thing going right now. The info Kenny Wallace brings to us, the peasant race fans, is simply amazing. Thank you for taking us behind the scenes, and de-bullshitting everything for us, Herman.
I hear ya Kenny. When I raced my asphalt street stock at I 70 Speedway. Most I made was $50. That covered my $20 entry fee and fuel for 1 Saturday night. I did it all on my own dime.
I worked a salvage yard in Kansas City. Was given parts. That’s it for my sponsors.
I used to be a crew member on a late model. I paid my own way in. Didn't get paid. Did it because I love racing and wanted to be a part of it.
Did you go to the school in Mooresville?
@@FlagTheRef nope. Just showed up and helped. Was fun.
Hell yeah
I raced for years never had much success but I loved it nonetheless if you can afford it go for it but make no mistake don’t neglect the family for fun
My local track was expensive, so the following year, my friend & I did ambulance duty at the track; after that, I worked a corner in a truck, & wrecker duty. We got paid a flat hamburger & a coke.
I worked CORR events, supplied the corner guys with drinks a few times, & worked as a corner flag man; I got a neon T-shirt, a dry hotdog, an energy drink, & I collected all the dust & sunburn as a reward.
I love your truth kenny, a lot of people don't like the truth but you tell it how it really is, thanks for that!
This was an awesome video. You kept it 100 with us. Can't wait to see you run in the CARS Tour!!!
I would live like a nomad for any of those numbers, even the low ones, to race at those levels. What a life. Love your shop!
💯% I’ve been around dirt racing my whole life and you ain’t ever gonna make it without sponsors and a lot of support from everyone around you!!
This podcast is the good side of social media. Learning more about our favorite interests and becoming a fan of drivers like Kenny and Dale Jr in my 30s seeing how relatable they truly are. Two of the most transparent men of our sport.
Kenny, watched you race for years. You tell it like it is. Always learn something from every one of your videos. Your sense of humor is second to none. Even when your serious, you put a good spin on it. Thanks Brother you make us all smile.
I remember Kenny coming along in Cup, as we're the same age. He is the funniest guy in motorsports, by far. I remember Kenny driving a "Super Chicken" on some show on Speed, I think, and he was driving against some guy in a Lambo on a road course. When the race first started, nobody knew who was driving the T/A and Kenny beat this guy in a new Lamborghini against Kenny in a '76-'77 Trans Am with a 455 S.D. under the hood. It was hilarious when Kenny beat him and he took off his blacked out full face helmet and the Lambo guy started whining about Kenny blocking him, blah, blah, blah. Funny stuff. Kenny's videos are some of the most interesting and informative there are on here.
I feel you on a similar level, Kenny. People think because I have 116,000 subscribers and 10s of millions of video views on UA-cam that I am just rolling in money, when that's not the case at all. In the past month I have had to suddenly spend about $6000 and it's just about breaking me. I don't have any sponsors, would love some to come on board, but I survive 99% off of ad revenue. People think they know everything, but when it comes right down to the facts, it turns out they don't know much! "Timing and circumstances" is about as true of a statement as ever too, I agree. Thanks for de-BSing as always, Kenny. One of the real ones out here!
Sponsors are a bunch of really good people. I do and want to hang out with race people the rest of my life!!!
I love JEGS. They are the GOAT. I used them as a kid. Mom used to have to call them up for me and order haha. Mom knew all about JEGS
Reverend Kenny, thank you for preaching the truth to the masses. I raced LMS between 1990 and 2000. We traveled to paved tracks around western Canada. In ten years the largest cash sponsor I had provided me with $5,000.00 a year. We had several sponsors that paid us $250.00 to $1,000.00 for a season. There were also sponsors who provided products to us in exchange for signage on the car and team uniforms. My personal expenditure every season was about $25,000.00 a year. The viewers also need to understand that you need a truck and a trailer. There are also more miles put onto the truck and trailer every year then the race car will ever see. The cost of fuel, maintenance and repair are all on top of the actual at track, running the event expenses, and you need to feed and provide a bed for your crew. The largest payout I ever received was $350.00 for running 9th in a 15-car race with a total purse of $5,000.00. The winner got $1,500. My best night of racing at my home track was winning 2 of the heat races and taking 2nd in the feature. I got $100.00. Doing it for the love or the addiction to the sport is the only reasoning you can put to it and hope that your spouse is understanding or at the extreme, supportive of everything. Having my kids cheer for me is still the biggest thrill. Since racing I have moved into restoring classic cars. I have done 4 builds in the last 20 + years. I miss racing and I have to limit going to my local track or the mistress might come calling.
Thanks for the real talk Herm! I miss the days watching You , Rusty , Senior ,Schrader and all the other guys when nascar was REAL! When drivers could make a car better because they new how to drive!!! Love the video's sir !! Keep up the good work!
AMEN!!!!!!!!!
Kenny, I really wanted to ask the question, how do you go about talking to someone for sponsors. I know you're famous and busier than a one-handed paper-hanger, but I would love to know how to go talk to someone about sponsoring. Thanks.
@@jonathanburkhead681 I can kinda answer that as some who race mods you have go about selling your self in away the best thing jast keep trying.
@@jonathanburkhead681
There’s a couple of books on that. For average driver/owners, on average you can sometimes get some agreements with folks for a little promotion in exchange for a little money to partially help with average expenses. Sometimes you’ll get lucky; maybe 1 out of 150-250 serious sit-down proposals on average you will get a very good response and a fantastic sponsorship contract with those guides.
But better- and few can do this well- is to have a really good promotional value written out and detailed where you heavily invest yourself in a lot of ‘appearances’ for the benefit of the sponsor. And you sell that, and you perform that.
Some drivers are good at getting people to give them money, a surprising number of average guys are very good at that.
But you don’t want to be looking for sponsors who will give you money. You want sponsors for whom you are providing value to, to whom you are performing a service for and giving them great value. Sell THAT.
Then you will be above average, get above average money, and be developing your name as a brand that people - sponsors- know they can trust and depend on. Oh, you better be pulling of some good finishes, too, and your car outa look like you care.
Once you understand that this is a business and you represent your ‘stickers’ and names on the car well, and promote like John Force, Kevin Harvick, Wallace, or even Hailee Deegan for that matter.
Go back and listen to Kyle Bush and others (like Harvick) who have stated it’s not about performance anymore, it’s about if you can bring money (sponsors) with you. So you build a brand (you, yours) and parlay that. And your ability to sell in the boardroom for a win is more important than the top fives; or starting out it’s more important to bring the team and friends to fill every seat at Jeremy & Sara’s Pasta and Steakhouse (who are on your rear quarter) and guerrilla market them to death.
Easy for me to say- I haven’t done it. In racing. But I’ve sold a lot of things and run in the top ten of my ‘segment’ by being honest, selling myself, and providing people value.
There’s always a better salesman; there’s very few that create relationships and value.
@@jonathanburkhead681 try to get someone that you already do business with. "I pay you, you sponsor me" 🙂
Thank you for spilling the beans! Money is a rare subject in racing. When some hothead wrecks another racer after we find out that no one is hurt, I think “ there’s a couple of hundred thou down the drain! Cup tires are ( from what I have recently heard) $500 each…and how many sets are used each race? And brakes and transmissions and rear gears and body panels and wraps…. it is a very very expensive game, and it won’t be competitive if you don’t have the very best in every aspect. Two seconds because you have a bad pit stop, you loose 3-8 places. What did that cost you at the end of the race? It just boggles my mind when the whole financial aspect is evaluated. Good on ya for tackling a complicated subject. And you were great to see in the booth!
You are a very lucky man to have the complete support of your family. I wish you were in the booth. You are my favorite announcer, ever! Thank you for the work you put into this channel!
I love how you keep it real with everyone and lay it all out
Thanks Kenny for your honest humble opinion and for telling it like it is! Stay safe out there and God Bless.🙏🏻👍💯
The best info … in 1992-98 I ran a dirt modified , sucked my bussiness dry of money and time . I basically ate pb&j sandwiches for 6 years straight because my food money went to racing with not enough sponsorship . Went back to go karts . Still love modified dirt cars but prices are crazy . U have been my favorite driver my entire life , love the way u say it like it is . Great info keep rt foot down ,
I've been a racing fan for 30 years, and I've learned more about racing in the last 25 minutes than all 30 years combined
No surprises. I know a guy on the Lucas Late Model tour. It probably costs him near $1,000,000 a year to run his racing operation. Those Scott twins in dirt racing, well their Grandma owns half of Arizona (well, maybe not but might as well for as wealthy as she is).
I have spent thousands and now I'm out of racing and wishing I never got in to it but it was a experience ill never forget
too much jibber jabber for me, bored after 2 minutes, he could have made a 5 minute video. IMO
@@boossersgarage3239I’m grateful I have a mind that is big enough to not be filled up and bored in just two minutes. Successful thinkers value context and understand the value of information in context. You think it’s just information because you have no vision.
@@boossersgarage3239 that's his MO. Bottom line is any full time racing is a gypsy lifestyle. Much easier to work for the man @$30/ save some $$ and retire.
Your brother Rusty did fairly nice himself. Heck, He sells every brand of car there is. The two of you were my favorite drivers. Thanks Kenny. (Hermanator)
Luv your no BS facts about what goes on behind the glitter and cake. Thanks man keep those vids coming
Kenny you are 100% correct I have been dirt late model racing 44yrs never had big sponsors but I appreciated everyone that ever helped me I do it for the love of the sport and I have always loved trying new ideas to see if I can make the car faster but I wouldn't be able to do it without having a full time real job 👍👍🏁🏁
Thank you for laying this out for us. 65 years old and my grandson is starting 270 micro sprints. I can't say no, but damn this shit is expensive! His heart is in it and what can I do! I loved watching you and hope the best for you and your family
One of the best comments out there is "if you want to become a millionaire tractor pulling, start as a billionaire."
Hey Wallace! You are one of the most open, honest, and genuine people to ever be associated with Nascar.... good on ya my man! 😀
Kenny, you may have just dashed the dreams of a lot of starry eyed young guys and gals that think they are the next Kyle or Chase, but Thank You for being honest and doing the dirty work that these young drivers need this eye opening truth!! This video should be MANDITORY for all those that have "the dream" of being a full time Racecar Driver!!
Kenny’s keeping it real. So so true! Appreciate ya!!!!
NASCAR has lost the fan base of just a few years ago. The motorways had to paint the seats different colors so when the camera pans past the seating, the empty seats aren't as noticeable.
The phony noose scam didn't help either.
I'm getting into lawn tractor pulling. First pull, smoked the clutch. Currently installing a 550 dollar highly upgraded unit to make sure it doesn't happen again. I'll probably never make that money back in winnings, but I love every penny spent trying to get that win!!! Great info!!!
But where dumb asses for doing what we love.... Guess that's what I am then if Kenny said it. Still love it
I'm glad you explained it Kenny! I knew there wasn't that much money in racing and the need for sponsors. I think all those stickers look cool anyway, you can see what happens when they're not sponsored because they're running in the back most of the time & who the hell wants to run last....
Really like your style Kenny. No fluff, just facts. Real world stuff delivered with a smile. Great job. Love St. Louis, stay safe and see you on the next video! Thanks!
I always get nostalgic when seeing your race shop! My boss ran a high end used dealership. His son ran dirt late models. I wound up not only detailing but working as part of the race team.
Thank you for bringing back memories of so many shop conversations! 🏁
This is why you need to buy your local favorite's merch! That helps them make a "living" racing!
Great info. I’ve always wondered how the nascar guys get paid, taxes, insurance etc. I’d love more info on the inner workings big teams. Another show just talked about llc, marketing etc. these are good new subjects. Been a fan since 1979 and just learned a lot. Thanks🇺🇸
Great insight and analysis Herminator! In the boom days, I wonder what kind of contracts Jeff, Jimmie, Jr, Tony and Carl had, it must have been huge guarantees and big percentages of the purses. The sponsorships were enormous, as were the team budgets. Even with inflation, I suspect that the top teams spent more 20 years ago than they do now.
Most informative 25 minutes I have ever spent. Thanks Kenny.
Kenny , I've been in business my whole life. Your story isn't much different than anyone in business, except your doing what you love. I think your very lucky.
Good for you Kenny, I've always been a fan. Because you keep it so real.
i worked for a dirt modified team doing engines ,we raced 11 out of 14 days and we all had full time jobs as well ,what the public doesnt see is all the hours we put in ,staying in motels between race tracks ,, getting up at seven in morning going for breakfast and heading to a carwash to clean car and do maintenance from night before, reload trailer and head to next track , race that night ,leave track at midnight after getting paid ,, travel in middle of night to next track , have been all over canada and usa through many cities never to visit any of them ,, it was all you could see looking out a truck window at two A.M. in the morning . yes we,ve met many people during our travels but never really become close friends, racing is alot of work and you may even get some fame or noteriety out of it , its not as glamourous as the public thinks it is, racing cost me family time and a divorce in the end
Kenny you’re the man. Thank you for the information and your down to earth personality
Show is awesome, puts me in a better mood every time I watch it.
Hi Kenny We really appreciate your youtube videos and the actual racing information you give us.
I love Kenny's honesty! Always keeping it real! 💯
That’s why Kenny is my favorite nascar/racing personality!! Can’t wait for Dale Sr. to come back and tell his story on why he left!! I respect him more after he left, than I liked him before he left…..
We needed this as fans thanks herminator
Love that you're so real bro, wish you were my neighbor, would be a blast!!
Kenny, as a long time race fan with my dad, he and I often talk about the “real deal” and you confirmed so much of what we speculated on. Drivers at your level that want to compete even regionally aren’t doing it with their own money!! Anyone who thinks that is just plain uneducated as a fan and even worse a poor business model for a driver.
All the behind the scenes stuff like fuel in the toterhome, gate fees, eating, hotel, insurance, it all adds up and equals just as you simply stated- sponsors who love racing as much as you do as a driver to finance the addiction. I applaud you for keeping it “real” Kenny! 👍👍
This dude is smart!! Realistic and see both sides!! Good people too!! I can’t get off this channel! Scales and traveling with them got me. Going down road 3 hours to race and not having scales.
So good Kenny. Grew up watching late model racers in Colorado in the 70s. We had a top notch guy name of Wayne Stallsworth, won a lot had good equipment with strong sponsors. Thought he had it made-come to find out he was an over the road trucker for Safeway, needed the job to feed his family. Man had a passion and ability but was not really making a living. A real eye opener for me. You did it right Herm, smart with the real estate and timing. God bless ya.
Love this. Thanks Kenny. always like to listen to what Kenny has to say. That would be a great name for your podcast. "What Kenny has to say"
Open their eyes Kenny! ... exactly what I like about your shows
Man I don't care what anybody makes I have to worry about myself good for you guys God bless I have to leave on 1400 dollars a month and it's really hard good for you guys I love my racing
Ric Flair's shoes costs more than your house
@@pulsarlights2825; But, some people have Principles about what they will do to make A Living. Integrity won't Pay Bills, but being able to Look in The Mirror & Living With Oneself is Reality also. 😐
Luv ya Herman
We’re lucky to have ya out there
Keep on keeping on
Long live
The Hermanator
True facts have been given. My family raced local tracks in Virginia and North Carolina. My dad was on pit crew and it nearly broke the bank. Racing is a grind like no other, it’s truly a passion project. We did race against Elton Sawyer, which most people in racing know made it to the big time. Knew him before he got famous, ran Langley Speedway.
Very cool that you did this video. Could you do one where you tell us roughly what the sponsors pay? Size of decal, placement etc. would be cool to hear some numbers on that. Really hope to meet you one day. So friends and I go to Michigan every year.
Couldn’t of hit the play button on this video. Think i can speak for every nascar fan when I said this is one of the most thought about and asked question in racing history
Kenny, you are awesome, don't hold back any punches.I love it
Thanks Kenny, I haven’t been a racing fan for many years and racing isn’t what it used to be but I sure do enjoy your videos!!
Thanks Kenny, all forms of motor racing have the same outcome whether you are racing Supercross, NHRA Pro Stock, and NASCAR. You can start out rich but in the end, spending your own money is going to hurt.
One thing people don't know is firemen and EMS personnel at the race tracks is all volunteer.
Awesome explanation Kenny. Videos are so much fun to watch.
I'm just getting back into dirt track after being out for about 10 years. Just last weekend I went a dropped a pile of cash on a new to me trailer. Nicest trailer I've owned, for the nicest car I've had. All out of my pocket. Never had sponsors besides my own shop. Definitely been there, from borrowing trucks to get to the track, to going to tire shops to get scrap lead to make my own weight
Thank you Kenny, I learned a lot from this. Already knew racing is not a get rich scheme in retrospect but this just put the icing on the cake
You hit it on the nail head, I raced for the love of dirt racing, been at tracks all my life, my dad had a late model when we were kids, me and my brother raced what we could with what we had, there was no money being made we would work our butts off all week to get to go racing on the weekend!! if you won the money you were lucky if you broke even for the night, and put the money right back in the car!! We had sponsors, but ya get what ya can for the car, and take and put it all in the car!! Just for love of the sport is why we did it!!
Dang Herman, that pop you just heard was my dreams, up in smoke! I worked a race team, small little group, back in the eighties. Only thing we got paid was lunch, which didn't even pay for gas getting to the shop and leaving after midnight. But I loved what I & the team did. My dream was busted long ago in the mud, chasing the Goodyear hauler, prepping after every time on the track. A gig for only the young. But what an experience.
Love ya Kenny, you are not a dumb ass.
Those folks who are ALL NARROW MINDED as to think that it's all gravy. Love in a box. Back in November we met you and your wife at Charlotte airport you both were very nice. Wish we could have chated a sec. But I figured that at the airport wasn't the best place. And looked like you guys were trying to find a flight. We have watched you face and you are that same person in person as you are on tv.
THANKS FOR BEING A NORMAL PEOPLE
It means a lot. Stay and have a blessed life.
Thanks Kenny for the education. Racing is definitely not a get rich quick proposition. Definitely a expensive hobby.
Kenny you explained that 100% perfect.
100% truth. I've been blessed to do this but I advise anyone to be careful what you wish for. When the car is turned around by noon and you don't race until 7 day after day for an entire summer it gets old really fast.
Best video on UA-cam in my opinion I get tired of explaining to people how at the short track level we don’t make money sometimes if we are really lucky we break even
This is a great subject... Start at the beginning with Quarter Midgets!!! Some kids play Basketball. Some kids play Baseball. Some play Football... And family's have a large investment in that. And then there are travel teams... Not much different than the Quarters, Micros, Minis... Sponsors are soooo necessary! Thank you Kenny!
And this is why all of you need to buy all your favorite race car drivers merch. Help keep them out there! Its the best kind of crowd funding.
Thank you Kenny. Yes. Real Estate is the answer. We all learned that growing up so we all know its true. 4 green houses...1 red hotel. DJI is also correct as you stated. Hope to meet you one day. Thanks again.
I agree 100 percent I raced open wheel sprints for years if I was in it for the money I’d be in a soup line …I did because I loved it
Great video herm. Dont know any people in nascar. My son and I race flat karts in NY. All the money comes from the family owned wrecking yard. I tell my son all the time go to school get a good education. After watching this, showed my 13 year old and said there it is from a nascar guy.. Great to see someone still speaks the truth...
Real recognize’s real, very very good description of how things really are! Nice job Mr Wallace!
Man I’m gonna remember this forever! Thanks for the true facts!😄👍
Thank you for being yourself and the honesty.
I always enjoy listening to you speak from the heart. Realist. We need more of you in this country.
Thanks for the no bullshit take on this. The reason I love your videos. Stay safe and keep up the awesome job.
One of the most informative and smartest fellas to ever sit behind the wheel of a race car. Too many people just look at him as a goofy, funny, good time guy but ole Herm knows his sh*t! Wooooo
Kenny, you are a nascar treasure
Excellent job! I am also 60 and simply wont/can't live on a track burger with 4 (stinky) guys in the hauler. When your 18, different story.
I have responsibilities.
I know some rock musicians, same story......
Just came across you on here Kenny , saw you in the pits at Bubba last year, you're pretty cool! nice piece of work on this post, look forward to some more ( sponsored by Jegs of course )!
I was lucky enough to live next door to a dirt track stock car racer and in general he told me pretty much the same stuff that Kenny said in this video, so like Kenny said if you want to go to Nascar you better either be independently wealthy or find some good and loyal sponsors at the dirt short track level with the hopes of doing good enough to get noticed by the people who can help you work your way up the ladder towards the Cup series, level by level hoping that your talents and abilities will keep getting the attention of team owners and sponsors to help you make your way up towards the Cup series and even if you make it you have to have as good a driving record as possible to get the attention of team owners and sponsors who hopefully keep you competitive if you've pretty much proved yourself as a driver but then you still have to prove yourself as being able to be competitive and attract sponsors and even if you prove you're another Hamlin, Harvick, or even another Jimmy Johnson, you still have to prove that not only are you competitive, but you're a winner often enough that at least one 1⃣ team owner will be interested in you, and only after at least several fairly successful seasons can you even begin to think about shopping yourself around hoping you've impressed enough people to be able to be lucky enough to be with a team for the next season and only if you happen to be a Hamlin, or Harvick, or Johnson can you even hope to be asked by anybody to drive for them after a losing or break even season and if you do get lucky enough to get seat invitations you'll be starting all over again hoping you can prove you're competitive enough to catch someone's attention (team owner , sponsor,or both) to start the vicious circle all over again for as many years as you possibly can and we've all seen that very few if any Jeff Gordons or Tony Stewarts or Buschs , or Loganos come along but once maybe twice every 10 , 15 , or even 20 years and Nascar Grow with the Pettys , Allisons , Jarretts, , and yeah the Earnhardts my point being that all of the family Dynasties and single stars spent years working their way up to the Cup series and only the best regardless of their last names had successful careers in Nascar and very few of the local dirt short track aces with Nascar dreams are ever lucky enough to make it up to any of the top 3 series in Nascar , allof which has been my long winded attempt to back up what Kenny Wallace was saying in his video, and I apologize to anyone who I bored with my comments and with all that said I'll back out of here sincerely hoping I at least gave y'all something to have a conversation about , and I hope y'all have a good one 1⃣ 😊😅😮😂❤😂❤😊❤
Kenny, that famous driver you sold your real estate to, he also made out good on that investment. Great video, enjoyed it very much.
Excellent breakdown here of the reality of the dream. To be honest, I wasn’t aware of the extent of race car driver salaries. Appreciate the knowledge! Great job Herman!
Its alot like Hollywood. You have to be strong and stay and make what you can. This sport as its known will take everything including heart and soul. I know this personally.
Love the Musial t-shirt. Yes!!! He's still The Man!
As usual ... great content from a guy that knows what he's talking about. Not some guy who "thinks" he knows. Kenny knows because he's lived it!
Great advice in there for young people ... whether they're in racing or not.
Been there, Booth-wise ! Super Musial T-Shirt ! Would appreciate similar Videos on Formula1, Indy Car & Team Info... Financial Situation Driving for Roger Penske, Stewart-Hass and KRF. Super Info ! ❤🫡👍👍
Good breakdown of the topic. All racers I've known barely get by with a lot of help from volunteers who just love being involved.
Thank you for the Video Kenny, I'm going to be 70 Jan 8th, I lived in DeSoto in my youth in the 1960s, south of you. I remember going to Fenton at a Asphalt track maybe valley park? and watched your dad & Rusty drive. was a long time ago, retired in Columbia Mo, so I always get your family & your Videos. Always considered the Wallace's part of the family. have fun Racing! & be careful.🙂
Thank you for a very insightful look at the cost of racing. Loved the detailed explanation.👍
this is why your the best kenny, up front honest, anyone that says you don't know what your talking about is a fool. thank you for being you
Kenny your the best i miss you on raceday real class no bs just facts
So true it's an addictive sport, I prep cars and have a small excavation company and still work a third job to feed it!!!!! So true kenny