{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"Chase Elliott Interview After Winning at Texas | VICTORY LAP","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/chase-elliott-interview-after-winning-at-texas-victory-lap","audioUrl":"https://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/pdst.fm/e/traffic.megaphone.fm/FOXM1341801384.mp3","description":"Chase Elliott analyzes his NASCAR Cup Series win at Texas Motor Speedway, dives into his performance, race strategy, team execution, season momentum, and evolving championship outlook in one of the most insightful NASCAR interviews of the year. On this episode of Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour, Mamba Smith sits down with NASCAR Cup Series driver Chase Elliott to break down his latest victory, discuss areas for improvement, explore what makes this season different, and outline his mindset as he pushes toward a potential championship run.\nLearn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices"},"annotations":[{"startTime":47.6,"endTime":55.5,"type":"topic","title":"Texas motor speedway","url":"/glossary/texas-motor-speedway","quote":"This is the victory lap your boy Mama Smith back in the saddle come off a Texas motor speedway our winner Chase Elliott Chase\n[55.5s]  How we doing brother?","canonicalId":"topic:texas-motor-speedway","priority":0.2,"confidence":0.75,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Texas Motor Speedway is a NASCAR venue where track-specific characteristics (layout, banking, tire wear) influence race strategy. Mentioning it sets the context for why pit calls and restarts mattered so much.","simplifiedExplanation":"Texas Motor Speedway is the race track where this happened. Different tracks change how teams plan pit stops and manage tires."}},{"startTime":47.6,"endTime":55.5,"type":"brand","title":"Chase Elliott","url":"/glossary/chase-elliott","quote":"come off a Texas motor speedway our winner Chase Elliott Chase\n[55.5s]  How we doing brother?","canonicalId":"brand:chase-elliott","priority":0.35,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Chase Elliott is a NASCAR driver, and his name here identifies the guest and the race winner being discussed. In this context, it’s tied to the driver’s performance and team strategy decisions."}},{"startTime":61.1,"endTime":71.1,"type":"concept","title":"pit calls","url":"/glossary/pit-calls","quote":"You at the end of the stretch there\n[64.6s] You you guys really locked in some good pit calls, but that last restart. You're ready to hold off the 11","canonicalId":"concept:pit-calls","priority":0.55,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"In NASCAR, a “pit call” is the team’s instruction to the driver about when to come into the pits and what to do there (like changing tires and making adjustments). Good pit calls can swing track position and tire performance during a race.","simplifiedExplanation":"A pit call is what the team tells the driver about when to pull into the pits. It usually includes things like changing tires and making setup changes so the car can run better."}},{"startTime":64.6,"endTime":104.6,"type":"concept","title":"last restart","url":"/glossary/last-restart","quote":"You at the end of the stretch there\n[64.6s] You you guys really locked in some good pit calls, but that last restart. You're ready to hold off the 11\n[71.1s] Walk us through the last couple laps there","canonicalId":"concept:last-restart","priority":0.6,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"A “restart” in NASCAR is when the race resumes after a caution period, with cars accelerating back to racing speed. The “last restart” is especially critical because there may be only a short window left to gain or defend position.","simplifiedExplanation":"A restart is when the race starts moving fast again after a caution. The last restart is a big deal because there’s often very little time left to make a move."}},{"startTime":86.7,"endTime":93.8,"type":"concept","title":"qualifying","url":"/glossary/qualifying","quote":"Thought we had a pretty solid Saturday felt like I probably under performed, you know, some of the\n[93.8s] Potential in our car and qualifying but thought we made good adjustments going to Sunday","canonicalId":"concept:qualifying","priority":0.4,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"“Qualifying” is the session where drivers set their starting positions for the race based on lap times. In NASCAR, qualifying results can strongly affect strategy because starting position influences track position and pit timing.","simplifiedExplanation":"Qualifying is when drivers try to set their best lap time before the race. Your qualifying result helps determine where you start, which can matter a lot for strategy."}},{"startTime":93.8,"endTime":99.4,"type":"concept","title":"adjustments going to Sunday","url":"/glossary/adjustments-going-to-sunday","quote":"Potential in our car and qualifying but thought we made good adjustments going to Sunday and executed a good race\n[99.4s] Yeah, and you know Alex gave me a great shove on that last restart Allen made a good call to","canonicalId":"concept:adjustments-going-to-sunday","priority":0.35,"confidence":0.75,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"“Adjustments going to Sunday” refers to changes the team makes between the earlier sessions (like Saturday) and the race day (Sunday). These can include setup tweaks that affect handling, tire wear, and how the car responds under different speeds and conditions.","simplifiedExplanation":"Between Saturday and the race on Sunday, the team makes changes to help the car handle better. The goal is to improve how the car drives when it matters most."}},{"startTime":99.4,"endTime":104.6,"type":"concept","title":"shove","url":"/glossary/shove","quote":"Yeah, and you know Alex gave me a great shove on that last restart Allen made a good call to\n[104.6s] You know leave us out and you know kind of kind of take a chance that that thing was only gonna have one","canonicalId":"concept:shove","priority":0.4,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"In NASCAR, a “shove” is a teammate’s push—typically using drafting and positioning—to help another car gain speed and improve track position. It’s a common team tactic, especially near restarts or late in the race.","simplifiedExplanation":"A shove is when a teammate helps you by pushing your car forward using close racing and drafting. It can help you get a better position to race for the lead."}},{"startTime":104.6,"endTime":110.5,"type":"concept","title":"leave us out","url":"/glossary/leave-us-out","quote":"Allen made a good call to\n[104.6s] You know leave us out and you know kind of kind of take a chance that that thing was only gonna have one\n[110.5s] Restart to the end.","canonicalId":"concept:leave-us-out","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"“Leave us out” is pit strategy language meaning the team decides not to pit the car during a caution/restart window. Doing so can be a gamble: you keep track position but risk running out of tires/fuel or losing performance if the race goes longer than expected.","simplifiedExplanation":"“Leave us out” means the team tells the driver to stay on the track instead of coming into the pits. It’s a risk because you’re betting the race won’t go long enough to hurt you."}},{"startTime":140.7,"endTime":147.0,"type":"concept","title":"generation car","quote":"Yeah, when you look at You know your time in this generation car the seven-gen car You've been open about it","canonicalId":"concept:generation-car","priority":0.4,"confidence":0.65,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"“Generation car” is NASCAR shorthand for the current generation of the race car under the sport’s rules package. Different generations can bring changes to aerodynamics, chassis characteristics, and how teams must develop setups.","simplifiedExplanation":"“Generation car” means the current “generation” of NASCAR race car rules. When the generation changes, the cars can drive differently, so teams have to learn new setup and driving approaches."}},{"startTime":194.0,"endTime":200.1,"type":"concept","title":"new body","url":"/glossary/new-body","quote":"There's certainly been new challenges this year with the new body and us just trying to figure it out You know like we had a test earlier in the year at Wilkes-Bro","canonicalId":"concept:new-body","priority":0.45,"confidence":0.7,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"“New body” refers to a rules-driven update to the car’s exterior bodywork used in NASCAR. Even when the underlying chassis and powertrain are similar, body changes can affect aerodynamics, which then changes handling and how the car behaves at speed.","simplifiedExplanation":"“New body” means NASCAR changed the car’s outer shape for the current rules. That can change how the car cuts through air, which affects grip and stability on track."}},{"startTime":200.1,"endTime":216.9,"type":"concept","title":"on-track","url":"/glossary/on-track","quote":"And then you know Kyle had a test at Chicago last week and you combine those two opportunities to gather data with on-track Opinions and thoughts and and just data that we've gathered Manually through the course of the season","canonicalId":"concept:on-track","priority":0.55,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"“On-track” means activities happening directly on the race circuit, like running laps during practice or testing. In racing, this is where teams gather real-world performance data rather than relying only on simulations or past experience.","simplifiedExplanation":"“On-track” just means they’re doing it on the actual race course. That’s where teams can collect useful information from real driving and track conditions."}},{"startTime":200.1,"endTime":203.4,"type":"topic","title":"test earlier in the year at Wilkes-Bro","quote":"There's certainly been new challenges this year with the new body and us just trying to figure it out You know like we had a test earlier in the year at Wilkes-Bro And then you know Kyle had a test at Chicago last week","canonicalId":"topic:test-earlier-in-the-year-at-wilkes-bro","priority":0.2,"confidence":0.6,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"This refers to a track test session at Wilkesboro (Wilkes-Bro), where teams run the car to collect performance information. Testing helps teams understand changes, validate setups, and prepare for upcoming races.","simplifiedExplanation":"This is talking about a practice/test session at Wilkesboro. They use that time to learn how the car is behaving so they can improve later."}},{"startTime":200.1,"endTime":216.9,"type":"concept","title":"data","url":"/glossary/data","quote":"And then you know Kyle had a test at Chicago last week and you combine those two opportunities to gather data with on-track Opinions and thoughts and and just data that we've gathered Manually through the course of the season","canonicalId":"concept:data","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.75,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"In motorsports, “data” refers to measurable information collected during testing and races—things like lap times, tire behavior, and vehicle responses. Teams use it to make setup and strategy decisions, then refine those choices over the season.","simplifiedExplanation":"Here, “data” means numbers and measurements they collect from the car while it’s running. Teams use it to figure out what’s working and what needs adjusting."}},{"startTime":203.4,"endTime":210.9,"type":"topic","title":"Kyle had a test at Chicago","quote":"And then you know Kyle had a test at Chicago last week and you combine those two opportunities to gather data with on-track Opinions and thoughts and and just data that we've gathered Manually through the course of the season","canonicalId":"topic:kyle-had-a-test-at-chicago","priority":0.2,"confidence":0.6,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"This indicates another testing opportunity at Chicago, used to gather additional on-track information. In NASCAR, combining multiple tests helps teams compare data and refine their approach.","simplifiedExplanation":"They’re also talking about a test session at Chicago. More testing means more information to help the team adjust and get better."}},{"startTime":265.8,"endTime":283.6,"type":"concept","title":"momentum","url":"/glossary/momentum","quote":"When you look at your championship year, here's where you have multiple wins\n[265.8s] Does it feel like that kind of momentum or does this feel like a different year compared to other successful years?","canonicalId":"concept:momentum","priority":0.35,"confidence":0.78,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"In racing, “momentum” describes how a team’s performance trend builds over multiple races—often meaning confidence, setup direction, and execution are clicking. It’s less about one result and more about whether the team is trending upward.","simplifiedExplanation":"Momentum just means the team is doing well in a way that carries from race to race. It’s like being “in a groove,” not just having one good finish."}},{"startTime":292.3,"endTime":298.6,"type":"concept","title":"media center","url":"/glossary/media-center","quote":"I you know\n[292.3s] I was talking about it yesterday the media center is first time we've ever had, you know, multiple wins this early in the year\n[298.6s] And I knew that after Martin's though","canonicalId":"concept:media-center","priority":0.2,"confidence":0.7,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The “media center” is the press area at a race where drivers and teams do interviews and media obligations. Elliott notes it’s the first time they’ve had multiple early wins, highlighting how unusual the season start is for them.","simplifiedExplanation":"The media center is where reporters go to interview the drivers and teams. Elliott is saying this early in the season, they’ve never had this many wins before."}},{"startTime":306.1,"endTime":310.7,"type":"concept","title":"check new boxes","url":"/glossary/check-new-boxes","quote":"You know, we've been doing this a long time\n[306.1s] And I think anytime you can check new boxes off that you haven't accomplished before\n[310.7s] Especially when they're in the win column is something to be proud of","canonicalId":"concept:check-new-boxes","priority":0.3,"confidence":0.7,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"“Check new boxes” is a performance milestone phrase—meaning the team is achieving goals it hasn’t reached before. In racing, these “boxes” often translate to measurable results like early wins, consistency, or new track accomplishments.","simplifiedExplanation":"It means the team is hitting goals it hasn’t hit before. In racing, that usually means getting results you haven’t gotten yet."}},{"startTime":310.7,"endTime":315.5,"type":"concept","title":"win column","url":"/glossary/win-column","quote":"And I knew that after Martin's though\n[298.6s] I thought that was a really cool accomplishment for us just as a team because\n[304.3s] You know, we've been doing this a long time\n[306.1s] And I think anytime you can check new boxes off that you haven't accomplished before\n[310.7s] Especially when they're in the win column is something to be proud of","canonicalId":"concept:win-column","priority":0.4,"confidence":0.86,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"“Win column” is a racing shorthand for the tally of wins a team or driver has accumulated over a season. When Elliott says they’re proud “especially when they’re in the win column,” he means new achievements that show up as actual victories.","simplifiedExplanation":"The “win column” is just a way of talking about how many races you’ve won. If something is in the win column, it means it resulted in a victory."}},{"startTime":320.4,"endTime":328.6,"type":"concept","title":"runway","url":"/glossary/runway","quote":"We can relax. I think it's really like man\n[323.7s] We just have a much longer runway to make it even better and then to keep building on it\n[328.6s] we've not historically had that opportunity and","canonicalId":"concept:runway","priority":0.45,"confidence":0.8,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"A “runway” is a metaphor for time and opportunity to keep improving before the season’s end or before pressure peaks. In this context, Elliott means having more early-season success gives the team more time to refine and build rather than being forced to rush.","simplifiedExplanation":"“Runway” here means you have more time to keep working and improving. Early wins give the team breathing room instead of feeling like every race is make-or-break."}},{"startTime":332.2,"endTime":337.0,"type":"concept","title":"keep the hammer down","url":"/glossary/keep-the-hammer-down","quote":"I think it's important for us to just continue to keep the hammer down and keep our heads down just keep working\n[337.0s] You know, I think that's really been a lot of it is just keeping our heads in the game","canonicalId":"concept:keep-the-hammer-down","priority":0.25,"confidence":0.82,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"“Keep the hammer down” is racing slang for staying fully committed—driving hard and maintaining maximum effort rather than easing off. It implies consistent aggression and focus through the weekend and across races.","simplifiedExplanation":"It means keep pushing hard and don’t back off. Think of it like staying on the gas and staying focused."}},{"startTime":332.2,"endTime":337.0,"type":"concept","title":"heads down","url":"/glossary/heads-down","quote":"I think it's important for us to just continue to keep the hammer down and keep our heads down just keep working\n[337.0s] You know, I think that's really been a lot of it is just keeping our heads in the game","canonicalId":"concept:heads-down","priority":0.2,"confidence":0.76,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"“Heads down” is a common sports/racing phrase meaning stay focused on the work—process, preparation, and execution—rather than getting distracted by outside noise. Here it reinforces Elliott’s “keep working” message.","simplifiedExplanation":"It means stay focused and keep working without getting distracted. In racing, it’s about doing the right tasks and staying disciplined."}},{"startTime":347.34,"endTime":352.6,"type":"concept","title":"executing good days","url":"/glossary/executing-good-days","quote":"Implementing those those thoughts and decisions into our cars the right way each week and then ultimately executing good days","canonicalId":"concept:executing-good-days","priority":0.25,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"This phrase points to the idea of turning practice and planning into consistent race execution. In motorsports, “good days” usually means the team performs its plan reliably under pressure rather than just having speed in ideal conditions.","simplifiedExplanation":"It’s basically about doing the plan well when it matters. In racing, teams can have ideas and practice, but the real goal is carrying that into the race."}},{"startTime":358.3,"endTime":362.9,"type":"topic","title":"pit lane","url":"/glossary/pit-lane","quote":"I just think we have a really talented group of people, you know over the wall behind the wall","canonicalId":"topic:pit-lane","priority":0.3,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The pit lane is the trackside area where teams stop for service during a race. In NASCAR, it’s where pit strategy and fast work by the crew directly affect race outcomes.","simplifiedExplanation":"The pit lane is the area next to the track where cars pull in during a race to get service. How quickly and well the team works there can change the race."}},{"startTime":358.3,"endTime":362.9,"type":"topic","title":"over the wall","url":"/glossary/over-the-wall","quote":"I just think we have a really talented group of people, you know over the wall behind the wall","canonicalId":"topic:over-the-wall","priority":0.35,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"In NASCAR, “over the wall” refers to the pit crew actions during a stop—crew members run to the car and work on it from outside the pit box. It’s a shorthand for the teamwork and execution that happen in the pit lane during races.","simplifiedExplanation":"“Over the wall” is NASCAR talk for what the pit crew does during a pit stop. Crew members rush in to work on the car while it’s stopped, and it takes fast, coordinated teamwork."}},{"startTime":362.9,"endTime":370.4,"type":"concept","title":"capitalize on all that","url":"/glossary/capitalize-on-all-that","quote":"so I think it's important for us to capitalize on all that while we can and you know look forward to","canonicalId":"concept:capitalize-on-all-that","priority":0.2,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"“Capitalize on” here means using the team’s current strengths—like preparation, communication, and performance—to gain advantage when opportunities appear during a race. It’s a common racing mindset: convert good execution into track position or better results.","simplifiedExplanation":"He means: when your team is doing well, you have to turn that into results. Racing is full of moments where you can gain an advantage if you’re ready."}},{"startTime":519.2,"endTime":525.2,"type":"topic","title":"team sport","url":"/glossary/team-sport","quote":"You talk about your team and we talk about how much of a team sport this is all the time or a family sport","canonicalId":"topic:team-sport","priority":0.35,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"They’re describing NASCAR as a team effort rather than just one driver. In practice, teamwork includes communication, strategy, and coordinated execution during the race.","simplifiedExplanation":"They’re saying racing isn’t only about the driver. The whole group has to work together to make the car and strategy work on race day."}},{"startTime":525.2,"endTime":529.7,"type":"term","title":"spotter stand","url":"/glossary/spotter-stand","quote":"This is all the time your cousin is on is on the spotter stand for your tray","canonicalId":"term:spotter-stand","priority":0.55,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The spotter stand is where the spotter works during a race, typically positioned high up so they can see the track clearly. The spotter relays information to the driver about traffic, gaps, and hazards.","simplifiedExplanation":"The spotter is a person who watches the track from a high spot and talks to the driver. They help the driver avoid trouble and choose the right moment to move."}},{"startTime":620.7,"endTime":627.3,"type":"topic","title":"Bowman Gray","url":"/glossary/bowman-gray","quote":"You basically drifted around their Coliseum at Bowman Gray. You got any you got anything coming up for us?","canonicalId":"topic:bowman-gray","priority":0.45,"confidence":0.8,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Bowman Gray Stadium is a short-track venue known for NASCAR racing and close, high-intensity competition. When the hosts mention drifting around Bowman Gray, they’re referencing the track’s tight, wall-lined layout that rewards car control.","simplifiedExplanation":"Bowman Gray is a race track where NASCAR-style racing happens. It’s known for being tight and challenging, so drivers have to be very precise."}},{"startTime":620.7,"endTime":627.3,"type":"term","title":"drifted","url":"/glossary/drifted","quote":"You basically drifted around their Coliseum at Bowman Gray. You got any you got anything coming up for us?","canonicalId":"term:drifted","priority":0.4,"confidence":0.75,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"In racing, “drifting” means intentionally sliding the car through a corner with the tires losing grip while the driver maintains control. It’s a technique that can happen on short tracks when drivers manage throttle and steering to keep the car rotating.","simplifiedExplanation":"To “drift” means the car slides sideways instead of gripping normally. Drivers do it on purpose sometimes to keep control while going around a corner fast."}},{"startTime":651.3,"endTime":657.2,"type":"concept","title":"burnout","url":"/glossary/burnouts","quote":"If you're grading how how bad my burnout was, I'm fine with you. Give me a f-minus","canonicalId":"concept:burnout","priority":0.6,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"A burnout is when a driver spins the tires while the car is stationary or moving very slowly to heat the tires and create smoke. In NASCAR-style celebrations, it’s also a crowd-pleasing “victory lap” moment that shows off the car’s traction and the driver’s control.","simplifiedExplanation":"A burnout is when the driver makes the tires spin to create smoke. It can help get the tires ready and it’s also a common celebration move after a win."}},{"startTime":662.9,"endTime":667.4,"type":"topic","title":"victory lane","url":"/glossary/victory-lane","quote":"Looking forward to the next opportunity to see chase LA and victory lane","canonicalId":"topic:victory-lane","priority":0.35,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Victory Lane is the traditional area where NASCAR winners celebrate immediately after the race. Drivers and teams go there for interviews, photos, and the post-race celebration rituals.","simplifiedExplanation":"Victory Lane is where the winner celebrates right after the race. It’s where drivers go for interviews and celebration moments."}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"FOX Sports","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/chase-elliott-interview-after-winning-at-texas-victory-lap/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}