Damon Lee & Steven Bunker of Goodguys Rod & Custom
About this episode
Damon Lee and Steven Bunker from Goodguys Rod & Custom share insights on the evolution of car culture, the importance of community, and the dynamic between traditional and modern builds. They discuss the impact of events like the Goodguys shows on builders and enthusiasts, the challenges of judging various car categories, and the significance of networking for new builders. With anecdotes about memorable road trips and personal experiences in the automotive world, this episode highlights the passion that drives the car community.
This week on Oil & Whiskey, we’re joined by Steven Bunker and Damon Lee og Goodguys Rod & Custom. Two names deeply connected to the world of automotive media and marketing.
With decades of experience across magazines, events, and industry storytelling, Steven and Damon break down how car culture has evolved, what’s changed in the media landscape, and how brands and builders are connecting with enthusiasts today.
Ford Blue Cruise
"...Ford Blue Cruise hands-free highway driving takes the work out of being behind the wheel, allowing you to relax and reconnect..."
Ford Blue Cruise is a feature that lets you drive without using your hands on the steering wheel on specific highways. It helps you relax while still keeping the car safe and in control.
Ford Blue Cruise is a hands-free driving technology that allows drivers to take their hands off the wheel while driving on certain highways. It uses advanced sensors and cameras to monitor the road and maintain control of the vehicle, making long drives more relaxing.
Ford Explorer
"... in Blue Cruise-enabled vehicles like the F-150, Explorer, and Mustang Mach-E. Available feature on equipp..."
Ford Mustang
"...Enjoy the drive in Blue Cruise-enabled vehicles like the F-150, Explorer, and Mustang Mach-E..."
The Ford Mustang Mach-E is an electric SUV that carries the Mustang name. It offers a fun driving experience and is designed to be environmentally friendly while still being spacious and practical.
The Ford Mustang Mach-E is an all-electric SUV that combines the iconic Mustang performance with modern electric vehicle technology. It offers impressive range, quick acceleration, and a spacious interior, appealing to both Mustang enthusiasts and new EV buyers.
Floorliner
"after WeatherTech's best-selling flagship product, the Floorliner. A necessity if you care about your car and want to keep it looking pristine."
A Floorliner is a special mat that you put on the floor of your car to keep it clean and protect it from damage.
The Floorliner is a custom-fit floor mat made by WeatherTech, designed to protect the car's interior from spills, dirt, and wear while providing a snug fit.
WeatherTech
"after WeatherTech's best-selling flagship product, the Floorliner. A necessity if you care about your car and want to keep it looking pristine."
WeatherTech makes products to help keep your car clean and looking good, especially the mats that go on the floor.
WeatherTech is a company known for its high-quality automotive accessories, particularly floor mats and liners designed to protect vehicle interiors from dirt and damage.
resale value
"New car help maximize resale value when it's time to trade it in. Older pre-owned car make it look better with a simple interior refresh upgrade."
Resale value is how much money you can get for your car when you sell it after using it for a while. Taking care of it can help you get more money.
Resale value refers to the amount of money a car can be sold for after it has been used. Keeping a car in good condition can help maximize this value when selling or trading it in.
tube chassis
"And so took the car apart, kept the roof, quarters, built a full tube chassis with it and blown big walk 1471 with a clutch and a lingo and started doing pro-mod stuff."
A tube chassis is a strong frame made from metal tubes that supports the car's body. It's often used in race cars because it's lighter and can handle more stress than regular frames.
A tube chassis is a type of vehicle frame made from tubular steel or aluminum. It provides a lightweight yet strong structure for high-performance cars, often used in racing applications.
Chassis Works
"...my father worked for chassis works, Chris Alston. Okay."
Chassis Works makes parts that help improve how cars handle and perform, especially for racing. They create things like frames and suspension systems that make cars faster and more stable.
Chassis Works is a company that specializes in manufacturing aftermarket chassis components and suspension systems for performance vehicles. They are known for their high-quality products that enhance the performance and handling of cars, particularly in racing applications.
pro mod car
"...when I met Mark Meadows, because Mark was running a pro mod car. My brother was tuning Mark's car."
A pro mod car is a specially modified race car used in drag racing. These cars are built to be very fast and powerful, often using advanced technology to improve their performance.
A pro mod car refers to a type of drag racing vehicle that is heavily modified for performance. These cars often have powerful engines and advanced aerodynamics, allowing them to compete in professional drag racing events.
Buick Grand National
"Right. When we go to a Grand National Roadshow or an auxiliary event, you know, runnin..."
The Buick Grand National is a special version of a regular car that is super fast and has a cool black look. It's loved by car fans for its speed and unique style.
The Buick Grand National is a high-performance version of the Buick Regal, known for its turbocharged V6 engine and distinctive black styling. It has a cult following among car enthusiasts and is often discussed for its performance and unique place in automotive history.
Chevrolet Impala
"...e white well and fender skirt guy and the 20 inch impala bagged impala guy. And it was kind of a hard lin..."
The Chevrolet Impala is a roomy car that many people use for everyday driving. It's comfortable and has a lot of space inside, making it a good choice for families.
The Chevrolet Impala is a full-size sedan that has been a staple in American automotive history since the 1950s. Known for its spacious interior and smooth ride, it has been popular among families and commuters alike.
Chevrolet Nomad
"...Chad's Nomad. Before I even knew you guys. Man, that's so fucking cool. That's the Roadster Shop guys. That was a cool car."
The Chevrolet Nomad is a classic car from the 1950s that looks like a stylish station wagon. It's popular among car enthusiasts for its unique design.
The Chevrolet Nomad is a station wagon variant of the Chevrolet Bel Air, produced in the 1950s. It is known for its distinctive styling and is considered a classic American car.
Chevrolet Chevelle
"...I went to a local consignment shop in Sacramento and there was a black Chevelle that wrote Shop Bill. And I was like, I never saw it or anything."
The Chevelle is a classic car made by Chevrolet that was popular in the 1960s and 70s. It came in different styles, including powerful versions known as muscle cars.
The Chevrolet Chevelle is a mid-sized automobile produced by Chevrolet from 1964 to 1977. It was popular for its performance and style, especially in the muscle car variants.
Chevrolet Corvette
"...We talked C1RS Corvette. Sold it at auction."
The C1RS Corvette is a special version of the Chevrolet Corvette, which is a famous sports car. The 'C1' means it's from the first generation of Corvettes, made a long time ago, and 'RS' usually means it's a racing version or has special features.
The C1RS Corvette refers to a specific variant of the Chevrolet Corvette, which is known for its classic design and performance. The 'C1' indicates the first generation of the Corvette, produced from 1953 to 1962, while 'RS' typically denotes a special edition or racing variant.
street rod movement
"...when you think back to like the 70s, like the whole street rod movement in the 70s,..."
The street rod movement is about taking old cars and making them look and perform better. People in this movement love to customize their vehicles to show off their style and creativity.
The street rod movement refers to a car culture that emerged in the 1970s, focusing on customizing older vehicles, particularly from the 1920s to 1940s, for performance and style. It emphasizes creativity and personal expression through modifications, often featuring unique paint jobs, powerful engines, and custom interiors.
custom Rodder
"...even in the custom Rodder days, when the custom Rodder was like on its heyday..."
A 'custom Rodder' is someone who takes a regular car and makes it unique by changing its appearance and performance. This was especially popular in the past when people wanted their cars to stand out.
The term 'custom Rodder' refers to a car enthusiast or builder who modifies vehicles, often focusing on aesthetics and performance enhancements. This culture became popular in the mid-20th century, emphasizing individuality and creativity in car design.
Edsel
"...whatever that car was, fucking Edsel, a bubble top, you know, a wagon..."
The Edsel was a car brand made by Ford that didn't do well when it was sold. It’s often talked about as an example of a car that people didn't like.
The Edsel was a brand of automobiles that was produced by Ford in the late 1950s. It was marketed as a new kind of car but ultimately failed due to poor sales and public perception, becoming a symbol of failure in the automotive industry.
pro street
"That was a modern pro street, if you will. You used components to make them look a certain way, but you weren't building them to do the things like they looked like they should do."
Pro street cars are modified cars that look like they could race but are usually made more for show than for actual racing. They have special parts to make them look fast and cool.
Pro street refers to a style of modified street cars that are designed for high performance and often feature racing components, but may not be built for actual racing. These cars typically have a flashy appearance and are often seen at car shows and exhibitions.
tri-five
"...the first ones in the mid 90s, I think, 96, 97, were pro street tri-fives and whatnot."
Tri-five cars are classic Chevrolets made between 1955 and 1957. They are popular among car fans and are often customized to look and perform better.
The term 'tri-five' refers to a group of Chevrolet cars produced from 1955 to 1957, particularly the Chevrolet Bel Air, which are known for their classic styling and popularity among car enthusiasts. These cars are often modified for performance and show purposes.
autocross
"So the Street Machine of the Year deal in Columbus on the autocross track was basically just to see drivability. Does it turn? Does it go? Does it stop?"
Autocross is a type of car racing where drivers go through a course marked by cones. It's more about how well you can handle your car than how fast you can go.
Autocross is a timed competition in which drivers navigate one at a time through a defined course on either a sealed or unsealed surface. It emphasizes precision and handling rather than outright speed, making it a popular way for enthusiasts to test their cars' capabilities.
Street Machine of the Year
"So the Street Machine of the Year deal in Columbus on the autocross track was basically just to see drivability. So we do a parade lap and with the Street Rod and Street Machine of the Year contenders."
Street Machine of the Year is an award for cars that are really impressive in terms of performance and design. It recognizes the best modified cars that are fun to drive on the street.
The Street Machine of the Year is an award given to a standout car in the automotive community, often judged on performance, style, and innovation. It highlights vehicles that are not only powerful but also well-designed for street use.
OBS
"Okay, so square bodies and OBS is in their own deal. When you..."
'OBS' means 'Old Body Style' and describes Chevy and GMC trucks made between 1988 and 1998. It's a way to tell them apart from newer models.
'OBS' stands for 'Old Body Style' and refers to Chevrolet and GMC trucks produced from 1988 to 1998. This term is often used to differentiate these models from the newer designs that followed.
square body
"Okay, so square bodies and OBS is in their own deal. When you..."
'Square body' is a nickname for certain Chevrolet and GMC trucks made between 1973 and 1987. They have a distinctive boxy shape that many people find appealing.
The term 'square body' refers to a generation of Chevrolet and GMC trucks produced from 1973 to 1987, characterized by their boxy design. This design is popular among enthusiasts for its classic look and ease of modification.
Fox body
"...So Fox bodies and Thurgen Camaros and G-Bodies. Those are different vehicles to build against a 1st or 2nd Gen Camaro, against a Chevelle."
'Fox body' is a nickname for a type of Ford Mustang made between 1979 and 1993. People like to modify these cars because they are light and can be made to go fast.
The term 'Fox body' refers to a specific generation of the Ford Mustang produced from 1979 to 1993. This model is known for its lightweight design and has become popular among car enthusiasts for modifications and racing.
G-body
"...So Fox bodies and Thurgen Camaros and G-Bodies. Those are different vehicles to build against a 1st or 2nd Gen Camaro, against a Chevelle."
'G-body' is a term for a type of car platform used by GM for models like the Monte Carlo and Regal from the late 70s to the late 80s. They are often modified for better performance.
The 'G-body' refers to a platform used by General Motors for several of its mid-size cars from 1978 to 1988, including models like the Chevrolet Monte Carlo and Buick Regal. These cars are popular in the custom car scene for their versatility and performance potential.
Chevrolet Camaros
"Yeah, yeah. So Fox bodies and Thurgen Camaros and G-Bodies. Those are different vehicles to bu..."
The Chevrolet Camaro is a sporty car that people love for its speed and cool looks. It's been around for a long time and is often seen as a fun car to drive, especially for those who enjoy racing or just want something exciting.
The Chevrolet Camaro is a classic American muscle car that has been in production since 1966. Known for its powerful performance and aggressive styling, it has become a symbol of American automotive culture and is often discussed in the context of performance vehicles and car enthusiast communities.
GMC Safari
"The Allen Johnson safari. The Allen Johnson safari. That thing."
The GMC Safari is a big van that can carry a lot of people and stuff. It's great for families or anyone who needs a lot of space for trips or work.
The GMC Safari is a full-size van that was produced from the early 1990s until 2005, known for its spacious interior and versatility. It was popular among families and businesses for its ability to transport multiple passengers and cargo.
Chevrolet Tahoe
"An OBS truck. Jason Hills red flame Tahoe. That's a pretty wide spread."
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a big SUV that can carry a lot of people and stuff. It's great for families or anyone who needs extra space and power for things like towing trailers.
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior and strong towing capabilities. It has been a popular choice for families and those needing a versatile vehicle, often discussed for its blend of comfort and utility.
Chrysler 300
"...It was a pickup. And then the Tony army Chrysler 300. Yeah."
The Chrysler 300 is a big, fancy car that looks really cool and is comfortable to ride in. It's a good choice for people who want a mix of style and a smooth drive.
The Chrysler 300 is a full-size luxury sedan known for its bold styling and spacious interior. It combines performance with comfort, making it a popular choice for those seeking a stylish and powerful vehicle.
Chevrolet C10
"So I was supposed to drive the giveaway C10 that Scottsville and got it home, ran it for a little bit and then something happened."
The Chevrolet C10 is an old pickup truck that many people love to restore and modify. It was made from 1960 to 1987 and is known for being tough and stylish.
The Chevrolet C10 is a classic pickup truck known for its durability and style, produced from 1960 to 1987. It's popular among car enthusiasts for restoration and customization projects.
locking up brakes
"...I locked this thing up, dude, four wheels and the acid starts coming around on me. And I'm like, I'm wadding up Mark's car right now..."
When you lock up the brakes, the wheels stop turning but the car keeps moving. This can make it hard to steer and can cause the car to skid.
Locking up the brakes refers to a situation where the wheels stop rotating while the vehicle is still moving, causing a loss of traction. This can lead to skidding and loss of control, especially if the driver is turning.
Ford GT
"We talk about GTs a lot, right? Do you know about the time when I drove Tim's GT? Ford, did you also spin it out? No, I didn't. He fucking spun it out. But Body of Mind gets a GT for GT 2006 GT, fucking cars, beautiful, low mileage."
The Ford GT is a fast sports car made by Ford. The 2006 version is famous for its cool looks and strong engine, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The Ford GT is a high-performance sports car that was produced by Ford. The 2006 model is known for its powerful V8 engine and iconic design, inspired by the classic GT40 race cars.
Plymouth Coupe
"one of Gary's favorite cars was the, for me, was the 47 Plymouth guy. I'm a Mopar guy. And the fact that the president knows as a 47 Plymouth Coupe is a yellow coupe with red scallops."
The 1947 Plymouth Coupe is an old car that many people love because of its unique look and history. Plymouth was a brand that made cars in the past, and this model is a favorite among collectors.
The 1947 Plymouth Coupe is a classic American car known for its distinctive styling and is part of the Plymouth brand, which was a division of Chrysler. This model is often appreciated by classic car enthusiasts for its vintage appeal and historical significance.
Dodge A100
"...I was coming home from a football game in high school. Had a 68 Dodge Van. So like the flat front..."
The Dodge A100 is a small van made by Dodge in the late 1960s. It has a flat front and was popular for its unique look and versatility.
The Dodge A100 is a compact van that was produced by Dodge from the 1960s to the early 1970s. It features a distinctive flat front design and was available with various engine options, including the 318 cubic inch V8.
Jeep Wrangler
"...te. To me and two buddies were in his mom's Jeep Wrangler and we're shooting our friends with airsoft guns..."
The Jeep Wrangler is a tough-looking car that can drive over rough terrain and is perfect for outdoor adventures. People love it for its ability to go places other cars can't, like mountains or trails.
The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic off-road vehicle known for its rugged design and exceptional off-road capabilities. It has a loyal following due to its versatility and is often discussed in the context of adventure and outdoor activities.
funny car
"What type of race car? I like funny cars. I don't know if I'd be working on it. I think I try to live in the business world..."
Funny cars are special race cars that look like regular cars but are built for racing. They can go really fast and have unique shapes, which makes them exciting to watch.
Funny cars are a type of drag racing vehicle characterized by their altered wheelbase and body styles that resemble production cars. They are known for their high speeds and unique designs, making them a popular choice in motorsports.
Shelby Cobra
"...veway does not count. Because you want to put the Cobra? I'll put the Cobra in the mix. I'll throw it. I..."
The Shelby Cobra is a super-fast sports car that's famous for its speed and cool design. It's a classic car that many people admire and dream of owning.
The Shelby Cobra is a legendary sports car known for its lightweight design and powerful engine, often regarded as one of the greatest American sports cars. Its racing pedigree and classic styling make it a frequent topic of discussion among car enthusiasts.
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