The Creative Drive

Jeff Zwart & Paul Pfanner Directing, Photography and Racing Porsches

In this episode of The Creative Drive, we sit down with legendary filmmaker, photographer, and race car driver Jeff Zwart to explore his incredible career in storytelling, advertising, and motorsports. From directing Super Bowl commercials to dominating Pikes Peak, Jeff shares insights into his creative process, passion for Porsche, and the future of filmmaking.
We Cover:🎬 Super Bowl Commercials & Porsche Ads – The creative process behind legendary campaigns like "Kills Bugs Fast", "Eats Corvettes for Lunch", and "There Is No Substitute".🏔 Pikes Peak & Racing – The most intense moments from Jeff’s multiple victories on the mountain.🚗 Porsche Culture & Popularity – Why Porsche remains one of the most beloved brands among enthusiasts.🎮 Forza, Tanner Foust & Coaching – Jeff’s experiences working with top drivers and his thoughts on the future of automotive technology.🎓 His Journey to Storytelling – From studying to be a vet to co-founding RACER Magazine and becoming an icon in automotive media.
The Creative Drive is a podcast hosted by RACER's Creator Network President Taro Koki, dedicated to exploring the world of creativity within the automotive industry. Each episode features conversations with a diverse range of creatives, including YouTubers, directors, authors, designers, builders, and photographers, as well as industry journalists and creator economy experts. Together, we delve into what drives these creators, how they got started, their creative process, their inspirations, and their insights on building an audience in today’s digital landscape. From stories of success to overcoming setbacks, The Creative Drive offers listeners a candid look into the minds of automotive creators and their journeys.
Make sure you subscribe and like this video and follow us on Instagram @Racermag too!Leave your comments or feel free to email us at podcasts@racer.com. 
 #CreativeDrive #jeffzwart #porsche #pikespeak #commercials #luftgekuhlt

Dai Yoshihara Drifting & Pikes Peak Champion.The Creative Drive Podcast

Dai Yoshihara was street drifting as a hobby in the mountains of rural Tokyo when a friend of a friend hit him up to go drifting in California. He had never competed in a Japanese drifting event and somehow ended up in the US as a professional drift racer. A few months later, he had sponsors and became one of the star drivers of the growing professional drift organization, Formula D. He won the Formula Drift overall championship in 2011 as the first Japanese driver in the Discount Tire Falken Tire S13. He has stayed in the US and made a career not only as a professional drift driver but a time attack champion, endurance race car driver and Pikes Peak unlimited class champion. He also stunt drives for Hollywood movies like Gran Turismo. 
The Creative Drive is a podcast hosted by RACER's Creator Network President Taro Koki, dedicated to exploring the world of creativity within the automotive industry. Each episode features conversations with a diverse range of creatives, including YouTubers, directors, authors, designers, builders, and photographers, as well as industry journalists and creator economy experts. Together, we delve into what drives these creators, how they got started, their creative process, their inspirations, and their insights on building an audience in today’s digital landscape. From stories of success to overcoming setbacks, The Creative Drive offers listeners a candid look into the minds of automotive creators and their journeys.
Make sure you subscribe and like this video and follow us on Instagram @Racermag too!
Leave your comments or feel free to email us at podcasts@racer.com. 
 #CreativeDrive #daiyoshihara #drifting #pikespeak #formuladrift

NASCAR Driver while serving in the NAVY - Jesse Iwujiu

In this episode, we sit down with Jesse Iwuji, a true trailblazer in motorsports and beyond. From playing Division-1A college football to rising through the ranks as a Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve, Jesse is now the only current NASCAR national-level driver serving in the military.
His journey is one of resilience, service, and breaking barriers—both in business and on the track. As a champion for diversity in NASCAR, a two-time Diverse Driver of the Year Award winner, and an advocate for giving back to those in uniform, Jesse’s story is nothing short of inspiring.
He just announced his strategic alliance with DGM Racing for the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season. This partnership, formed alongside Pro Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith and entrepreneur Matt Casto, marks Jesse Iwuji Motorsports' return to full-time racing since 2022. With Chevrolet power and a shared vision for growth, this collaboration aims to maximize on-track performance and expand opportunities in the sport. Details here:https://www.nascar.com/news-media/2025/02/11/jesse-iwuji-motorsports-joins-forces-with-dgm-racing/
The Creative Drive is a podcast hosted by RACER's Creator Network President Taro Koki, dedicated to exploring the world of creativity within the automotive industry. Each episode features conversations with a diverse range of creatives, including YouTubers, directors, authors, designers, builders, and photographers, as well as industry journalists and creator economy experts. Together, we delve into what drives these creators, how they got started, their creative process, their inspirations, and their insights on building an audience in today’s digital landscape. From stories of success to overcoming setbacks, The Creative Drive offers listeners a candid look into the minds of automotive creators and their journeys.
Make sure you subscribe and like this video and follow us on Instagram @Racermag too!Leave your comments or feel free to email us at podcasts@racer.com. 
 #CreativeDrive #JesseIwuji #NASCAR #Motorsports #Leadership #DiversityInRacing

An Automotive Photographer's Journey - Sean Klingelhoefer

Sean Klingelhoefer is a commercial and editorial photographer, artist and car enthusiast. We discuss his personal journey starting out as a staff photographer for Super Street and becoming a photo journalist for Speedhunters. He has shot commercially for various automotive brands such as Porsche, Volvo, Honda/Acura, Cadillac and many more. Sean has also shot for RACER magazine. 
The Creative Drive is a podcast hosted by RACER's Creator Network President Taro Koki, dedicated to exploring the world of creativity within the automotive industry. Each episode features conversations with a diverse range of creatives, including YouTubers, directors, authors, designers, builders, and photographers, as well as industry journalists and creator economy experts. Together, we delve into what drives these creators, how they got started, their creative process, their inspirations, and their insights on building an audience in today’s digital landscape. From stories of success to overcoming setbacks, The Creative Drive offers listeners a candid look into the minds of automotive creators and their journeys.
Make sure you subscribe and like this video and follow us on Instagram @Racermag too!Leave your comments or feel free to email us at podcasts@racer.com. #thecreativedrive #RACERCreator #photography

The Cult of GT-R & Keys to the Empire - Ryan Zummallen Sam Mitani

 "RACER20" for 20% off at http://www.carrarabooks.com!
Ryan Zummallen is the founder and president of Carrara Books and author of The Cult of GT-R. Sam Mitani is the former International Editor at Roa & Track and the author of the Prototype Trilogy.The Creative Drive is a podcast hosted by Racer’s Creator Network President Taro Koki, dedicated to exploring the world of creativity within the automotive industry. Each episode features conversations with a diverse range of creatives, including YouTubers, directors, authors, designers, builders, and photographers, as well as industry journalists and creator economy experts. Together, we delve into what drives these creators, how they got started, their creative process, their inspirations, and their insights on building an audience in today’s digital landscape. From stories of success to overcoming setbacks, The Creative Drive offers listeners a candid look into the minds of automotive creators and their journeys.
Make sure you subscribe and like this video and follow us on Instagram @Racermag too!Leave your comments or feel free to email us at podcasts@racer.com. #thecreativedrive #RACERCreator #gtr
 

How to Create Successful Motorsport Events - Jim Liaw GM of PRI

We sit down with Jim Liaw, General Manager of Performance Racing Industry (PRI) and co-founder of Formula Drift. In this interview, Jim shares insights into his journey from establishing Formula Drift to leading PRI, discussing the marketing, evolution of motorsports and the industry's future. Don't miss this engaging conversation with a key figure in the racing world which took place at the PRI Show in Indianapolis in December of 2024. 
The Creative Drive is a podcast hosted by Racer’s Creator Network President Taro Koki, dedicated to exploring the world of creativity within the automotive industry. Each episode features conversations with a diverse range of creatives, including YouTubers, directors, authors, designers, builders, and photographers, as well as industry journalists and creator economy experts. Together, we delve into what drives these creators, how they got started, their creative process, their inspirations, and their insights on building an audience in today’s digital landscape. From stories of success to overcoming setbacks, The Creative Drive offers listeners a candid look into the minds of automotive creators and their journeys.
Make sure you subscribe and like this video and follow us on Instagram @Racermag too!Leave your comments or feel free to email us at podcasts@racer.com. 
#JimLiaw #PerformanceRacingIndustry #FormulaDrift #Motorsports #RacingIndustry

Pay Dirt: Supercross Documentary - Paul Taublieb Interview

Paul Taublieb is a multi Emmy-winning filmmaker renowned for his work in action sports and motorsports. He has directed and produced numerous feature documentaries, television series, and viral videos. His notable works include "Unchained: The Untold Story of Freestyle Motocross", "Blink of an Eye" and his latest film "Pay Dirt:The Story of Supercross" comes out in theaters in January, 2025. 
"Pay Dirt: The Story of Supercross," is a documentary that delves into the world of Supercross racing. Narrated by Academy Award-nominee Josh Brolin, the film features prominent figures in the sport, such as Jeremy McGrath, Ricky Carmichael, and Brian Deegan. It premiered at the Newport Beach Film Festival on October 19, 2024.
paydirtthemovie.comFollow @paydirtthemovie on IG and X/Twitter
The Creative Drive is a podcast hosted by Racer’s Creator Network President Taro Koki, dedicated to exploring the world of creativity within the automotive industry. Each episode features conversations with a diverse range of creatives, including YouTubers, directors, authors, designers, builders, and photographers, as well as industry journalists and creator economy experts. Together, we delve into what drives these creators, how they got started, their creative process, their inspirations, and their insights on building an audience in today’s digital landscape. From stories of success to overcoming setbacks, The Creative Drive offers listeners a candid look into the minds of automotive creators and their journeys.
Make sure you subscribe and like this video and follow us on Instagram @Racermag too!Leave your comments or feel free to email us at podcasts@racer.com. 
#thecreativedrive #racerpodcasts #paydirt #supercross #monsterenergy

From Sim Racer to Real Racer: Suellio Almeida's Journey to the Track

In this episode of The Creative Drive, we sit down with Suellio Almeida to explore his inspiring journey from sim racing to becoming a real-world race car driver, winning the 2024 Radical North America Championship and recently signing with Bryan Herta Autosport to compete in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge. Suellio shares how virtual racing fueled his passion for motorsports, the challenges he faced along the way, and how he uses his platform to inspire the sim racing and motorsports communities.
If you're passionate about sim racing, motorsports, or making your dreams a reality, this is an episode you won't want to miss!
The Creative Drive is a podcast hosted by Racer’s Creator Network President Taro Koki, dedicated to exploring the world of creativity within the automotive industry. Each episode features conversations with a diverse range of creatives, including YouTubers, directors, authors, designers, builders, and photographers, as well as industry journalists and creator economy experts. Together, we delve into what drives these creators, how they got started, their creative process, their inspirations, and their insights on building an audience in today’s digital landscape. From stories of success to overcoming setbacks, The Creative Drive offers listeners a candid look into the minds of automotive creators and their journeys.
Make sure you subscribe and like this video and follow us on Instagram @Racermag too!Leave your comments or feel free to email us at podcasts@racer.com. 
#thecreativedrive #racerpodcasts #suellio #simracing

Masterclass on Motorsports and Media with Bobby Akin

In this episode, host Taro Koki interviews Bobby Akin, a seasoned television and content marketing executive with deep roots in motorsports. Bobby’s multifaceted career spans professional racing, media ventures, and contributions to the motorsports community.
Growing up as the son of legendary racer Bob Akin, Bobby shares how his upbringing influenced his path from the track to a successful career in media. He delves into the creation of Mechanical Rabbit Productions and notable projects like the Back on Track docuseries, offering a unique behind-the-scenes perspective. Bobby also reflects on his racing achievements, including iconic events like the Rolex 24 at Daytona and Watkins Glen, while providing valuable insights into brand collaborations, the evolving creator economy, and RACER’s new initiatives. Additionally, he shares his thoughts on current motorsports trends and his experiences working with stars like Patrick Dempsey and Keanu Reeves. This episode is a masterclass in blending passion, creativity, and business within the motorsports and media landscape.
The Creative Drive is a podcast hosted by Racer’s Creator Network President Taro Koki, dedicated to exploring the world of creativity within the automotive industry. Each episode features conversations with a diverse range of creatives, including YouTubers, directors, authors, designers, builders, and photographers, as well as industry journalists and creator economy experts. Together, we delve into what drives these creators, how they got started, their creative process, their inspirations, and their insights on building an audience in today’s digital landscape. From stories of success to overcoming setbacks, The Creative Drive offers listeners a candid look into the minds of automotive creators and their journeys.
Make sure you subscribe and like this video and follow us on Instagram @Racermag too!Leave your comments or feel free to email us at podcasts@racer.com. 
#thecreativedrive #racerpodcasts 

Porsche Outlaws Stuttgart Hodrods - Michael Alan Ross

Michael Alan Ross is an automotive author, photographer and filmmaker. His recent book Porsche Outlaws Stuttgart Hot Rods is a visually captivating book that dives into the subculture of Porsche enthusiasts who defy convention. The book celebrates the creativity and individuality of those who modify classic Porsche cars, turning them into unique "outlaws." Featuring stunning photography by Ross and stories of these passionate builders, the book explores the craftsmanship, innovation, and rebellious spirit that define this niche of automotive culture. It showcases a range of customized Porsches, from subtly enhanced to radically reimagined, offering readers an intimate look at the artistry and engineering behind these iconic machines.
#porsche #outlaw #hotrod #CarCulture
The Creative Drive is a podcast hosted by Racer’s Creator Network President Taro Koki, dedicated to exploring the world of creativity within the automotive industry. Each episode features conversations with a diverse range of creatives, including YouTubers, directors, authors, designers, builders, and photographers, as well as industry journalists and creator economy experts. Together, we delve into what drives these creators, how they got started, their creative process, their inspirations, and their insights on building an audience in today’s digital landscape. From stories of success to overcoming setbacks, The Creative Drive offers listeners a candid look into the minds of automotive creators and their journeys.
Make sure you subscribe and like this video and follow us on Instagram @Racermag too!Leave your comments or feel free to email us at podcasts@racer.com. 
#thecreativedrive #racerpodcasts