Driver-hosted podcasts are increasingly reshaping the way NASCAR news is reported and consumed. Traditionally, most news around the sport flowed through television, radio, newspapers, and digital outlets, with reporters gathering information at race weekends, media days, and scheduled interviews. In this system, teams and the sanctioning body controlled much of the messaging. Today, driver podcasts have introduced a direct and often unfiltered line of communication between competitors and the public, fundamentally shifting NASCAR’s media landscape.
Two of the most influential examples are “Actions Detrimental with Denny Hamlin” and “Stacking Pennies” hosted by Corey LaJoie. Through these podcasts, drivers have the ability to break news, address controversies, and share behind-the-scenes details without traditional media serving as intermediaries. This has led to quicker dissemination of information and has occasionally placed journalists in the role of verifying or expanding upon revelations first made on air.
One of the most notable instances highlighting this shift occurred in March 2023 when Denny Hamlin used his podcast to admit he intentionally wrecked Ross Chastain during the final laps of the Cup Series race at Phoenix Raceway. Hamlin stated, “I’m not gonna sit here on this podcast and ever lie to you guys and say, ‘Well, this is an accident,’ when it’s not. It wasn’t an accident.” His candid admission was quickly picked up by media outlets and prompted NASCAR to fine him $50,000 and dock him 25 driver points for violating the sport’s behavioral policies. In previous eras, such an admission might have surfaced only through off-the-record conversations or post-race interviews; now, it was broadcast directly to the public by Hamlin himself.
Similarly, Corey LaJoie has used his podcast “Stacking Pennies” to offer transparency on topics such as team negotiations and race decisions. In a 2024 episode, LaJoie revealed he had an opportunity to drive the No. 19 Truck but declined, saying, “I could’ve had the 19 Truck but chose not to, citing I felt it wouldn’t be a good fit with crew chief Charles Denike leaving the team.” This type of honesty about contract talks and career decisions provides fans and media with rare insights that were once closely guarded.
Another example of this trend is Chase Briscoe’s recent appearance on the popular “Door Bumper Clear” podcast, produced by Dirty Mo Media. Amidst widespread speculation about his future sponsorship and team alignment, Briscoe used the platform to clarify the situation. He told listeners, “There’s a lot of rumors out there. I just want to set the record straight and let everyone know where we stand.” By addressing speculation directly, Briscoe reduced misinformation and helped control the narrative surrounding his career.
The rise of podcasts as a source of primary information coincides with broader changes in media consumption habits. According to Edison Research’s 2024 report, 42% of Americans aged 12 and older now listen to podcasts monthly. NASCAR, recognizing the trend, has encouraged greater digital engagement, even launching its own official podcast network in partnership with Dirty Mo Media, founded by Dale Earnhardt Jr. Earnhardt’s “The Dale Jr. Download” remains one of the highest-rated NASCAR podcasts, averaging over 250,000 downloads per episode, showing that the demand for long-form, insider content is growing.
For traditional journalists, driver podcasts have become essential listening. Reporters often monitor weekly episodes for potential breaking news, direct quotes, or evolving storylines. This shift has not diminished the need for thorough reporting; rather, it has added a new layer to information gathering. Journalists must carefully contextualize and verify drivers’ podcast remarks, understanding that a podcast environment often invites more candid, less rehearsed conversations compared to formal press conferences.
While podcasts provide drivers with greater control over their personal narratives, they also introduce new challenges. Statements made off-the-cuff can spark unintended controversies or result in official penalties, as seen in Hamlin’s case. Furthermore, the blend of opinion and fact in podcast conversations means listeners — and reporters — must discern between personal commentary and newsworthy declarations.
Overall, podcasts have not replaced traditional NASCAR journalism but have become an essential part of the evolving media ecosystem. They offer fans unprecedented access to the thoughts, strategies, and personalities behind the sport while compelling traditional media to adapt and innovate. As more drivers and teams embrace the podcast format, the landscape of NASCAR reporting is poised to become even more direct, dynamic, and diversified.
The future suggests a NASCAR media environment where podcasts continue to break news, clarify rumors, and deepen fan engagement. In this environment, journalists, teams, and fans alike will need to stay tuned — not just to race broadcasts, but to the expanding world of driver-driven storytelling.
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