LeisureAutomotiveSportsSociety & CultureDocumentary

Conversations with Big Rich

Big Rich Klein

Hear conversations with the legacy stars of rockcrawling and off-road. Big Rich interviews the leaders in rock sports.

Play

Open in

31 episodes
weekly
Avg 1 hr 11 min
English

Support the show

Goes straight to the publisher. podnod takes nothing.

Support this Podcast

Episodes 31

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.

S7 · E346
Thursday · 1 hr 17 min
Clint Duncan: Building a Legacy in Off-Roading on Episode 346
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Conversations with Big Rich, Clint Duncan shares the story of his lifelong connection to vehicles, wheeling, and the off-road community. Clint discusses growing up in Houston, his early mechanical experiments, learning to work on cars, and acquiring the 1991 Jeep Wrangler he has owned for 30 years. He recalls modifying Jeeps, helping friends build their rigs, judging competitive rock-crawling events, and his decades-long involvement with Texas 4-Wheel Drive. The conversation also explores Clint’s 26 years as a member of Texas Motorized Trails Coalition (TMTC), including his 13 years serving on its board and his current role as treasurer. Clint explains why preserving off-road parks matters, how TMTC benefits local communities, and why sustainable trails are essential for future generations. He shares memorable experiences at Barnwell Mountain, Escondido, Moab, and other Texas destinations, along with lessons learned from vehicle failures, trail building, volunteering, and even a memorable Jeep rollover. This episode celebrates the people who work behind the scenes to protect access, strengthen communities, and keep the off-road lifestyle alive. Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E345
November 5 · 1 hr 17 min
From Jeep Enthusiast to Off-Road Advocate: Stacy Newman’s TMTC Story
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Conversations with Big Rich, Stacy Newman shares his journey from growing up in rural Glen Rose, Texas, to becoming a petroleum engineer, Scout leader, and longtime advocate for responsible off-road recreation. Stacy recalls exploring the woods as a child, operating farm equipment, and discovering his passion for learning and hands-on work. He explains how buying a Jeep for oil-field travel unexpectedly led him into the off-road community—and eventually onto the board of the Texas Motorized Trails Coalition (TMTC). The conversation explores Stacy’s decades of volunteer service, including his roles as user representative, vice president, president, treasurer, and historian. He discusses TMTC’s major properties, including Barnwell Mountain Recreation Area, Escondido Draw Recreation Area, and Rio Bravo Adventure Park. Stacy also clarifies how TMTC operates, how grants and volunteer contributions support its parks, and why local leadership matters. Above all, he emphasizes TMTC’s mission to preserve family-friendly riding opportunities, educate responsible recreationists, and protect access for future generations. This episode is a compelling look at the people, persistence, and long-term vision behind Texas off-road recreation. Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E344
October 29 · 1 hr 13 min
From Texas Farm Life to Off-Road Leadership: Allen Boxley
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Conversations with Big Rich, Allen Boxley shares the story of his journey from growing up on a 113-acre Texas farm to serving 21 years in the military and becoming president of the Texas Motorized Trails Coalition. Allen describes his childhood working with cattle, operating tractors, building mulch-processing equipment, and developing an early passion for getting vehicles stuck in the mud. He recounts his military service, including deployments to Iraq and Kosovo, and his experiences during the invasion of Baghdad. After leaving active duty, Allen continued working in the mulch and heavy-haul industries before discovering a love for rock crawling. He talks about building his K5 Blazer, transitioning from mudding to technical terrain, and introducing his wife and children to off-road adventures. The conversation also explores Allen’s involvement with Escondido Draw Recreation Area and the growth of TMTC. He explains the organization’s nonprofit mission, family-friendly approach, grant-funded improvements, diverse trails, camping amenities, and plans for expanding access to motorized recreation across Texas. Listeners will gain insight into the work required to develop and preserve off-road parks—and the importance of creating welcoming, sustainable places for future generations of enthusiasts. Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E343
October 22 · 1 hr 5 min
From Family-Filled Jeeps to Deadman Off-Road: Bryant White’s Recovery Journey
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Conversations with Big Rich, Bryant White shares the story of his path from Maryland childhood memories and a career in aerospace engineering to becoming an off-road entrepreneur. Bryant talks about working on NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, relocating his family to San Diego, and discovering the freedom of wheeling in Southern California. He explains how a four-door Jeep Wrangler became a “clown car” for his family of six—and how the challenges of carrying passengers, a dog, and recovery gear inspired a new product. Born out of necessity, Deadman Off-Road is a lightweight, foldable ground anchor designed to help recover vehicles in sand, mud, snow, or other terrain without nearby trees or solid anchor points. Bryant describes its parachute-like design, multiple recovery applications, American manufacturing, and the company’s early Kickstarter launch. The conversation also covers Bryant’s involvement with the Rebelle Rally course crew, his partnership with Total Chaos, family life, vehicle evolution, and the importance of building practical solutions for real-world off-road adventures. Learn more at deadmanoffroad.com and follow Deadman Off-Road on Instagram. Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E342
October 15 · 1 hr 7 min
From Ohio Roots to Rock-Crawling Champion: Matt Dickey’s Off-Road Journey
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Conversations with Big Rich, Matt Dickey shares the story behind his life in the off-road world. Raised in Ohio and later relocated to Utah, Matt describes how early experiences with four-wheelers, dirt bikes, and muddy farm trails shaped his passion for adventure. He discusses building a successful framing business from the ground up, the risks and lessons of expanding into multiple businesses, and why hard work, loyalty, and perseverance have guided his career. Matt also recounts his first unforgettable trip through Moab’s Pritchett Canyon—a challenging adventure that sparked his addiction to rock crawling. He explains how he progressed from recreational wheeling to competitive rock crawling, including the development of powerful bouncers and purpose-built competition cars. A major focus of the conversation is Matt’s partnership with his son, Brett. Together, they have built a successful competition program, culminating in Brett’s 2026 national championship in the Unlimited class. Matt reflects on the mentorship, friendships, teamwork, and camaraderie that make rock crawling unlike any other sport. This is a story about creating your own luck, embracing opportunity, and pursuing a passion with family by your side. Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E341
October 8 · 59 min
From Street Racing to King of the Hammers: Josh Whitesides’ Off-Road Journey on Episode 341
Send us Fan Mail Josh Whitesides joins Conversations with Big Rich to share his unconventional path through the automotive and off-road worlds. Growing up around his father’s dealership, Josh developed an early passion for cars, wiring, racing, and anything with a motor. He discusses his years in car audio, national competitions, high-powered import street racing, and the serious injury that reshaped his life. Josh also recounts discovering off-roading through the Texas Rock Crawlers, building and wiring rigs, and eventually getting involved with Dirt Riot, Ultra4, and King of the Hammers. The conversation includes behind-the-scenes stories from the famous Raptor jump with Alex Wacker, Josh’s broken back, the challenges of racing an underprepared car at King of the Hammers, and the decision to build a Penhall race car. Today, Josh maintains a private collection of classic and restomod vehicles, including a 1929 Ford and a Ferrari 308. He also enjoys wheeling with Tribe 16, exploring destinations such as the Rubicon and Colorado, and taking his Jeep on scenic overland trips. Josh reflects on the friendships, teamwork, and family atmosphere that make the off-road community so special. Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E340
October 1 · 1 hr 7 min
From Rubber Plantations to Off-Road Entrepreneurship with Justin “Aussie” Khoo on Episode 340
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Conversations with Big Rich, Justin “Aussie” Khoo shares the winding journey that took him from growing up on a Malaysian rubber plantation and swimming competitively in Australia to working in mining, commercial diving, railroading, and the motorcycle industry. Justin talks about discovering his passion for off-roading, adapting to life in the United States, and returning to the trail through vehicle builds, 12-volt installations, and overlanding adventures. He also recalls guiding Australian filmmakers through California’s Rubicon Trail and introducing them to American off-road culture. The conversation then turns to Rugged Revive, the personal-care product Justin and his wife, Kelly, developed for people who spend time outdoors. Inspired by real-world challenges on the trail, Rugged Revive offers an effective way to clean up without a traditional shower. Justin explains how they created the formula, bootstrapped the business, and expanded beyond off-road into hunting, hiking, camping, sports, and other outdoor activities. Along the way, Justin and Big Rich swap stories about Australian wildlife, remote travel, beer, space for off-road toys, and the dream of building a massive garage. Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E339
September 24 · 1 hr 8 min
Trials build strength in Episode 339 with Sue Lee Bun
Send us Fan Mail In this inspiring episode of Conversations with Big Rich, Sue Lee Bun shares her remarkable journey from fleeing Laos as a young child to building a life rooted in family, resilience, and the off-road community. Sue discusses growing up in a large Hmong family, adapting to life in America, overcoming bullying, and balancing cultural traditions with American life. She explains how she and her husband, Chai, discovered off-roading, raised their sons on the trails, and launched Bunn Welders after fellow off-roaders began relying on their trail-side welding expertise. Sue also opens up about her stage-four lung cancer diagnosis and the overwhelming support she received from the off-road community. That experience inspired the creation of the Hugaroc Foundation, which supports off-road families affected by cancer and plans activities for children and teenagers facing illness. Learn about Hugaroc’s upcoming fundraisers, community events, children’s initiatives, and ways to get involved. Visit hugaroc.org and follow Hugaroc on Facebook and Instagram. Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E338
September 17 · 1 hr 15 min
Finding comfort in the chaos, Tom Gattuso, SEMA’s VP of Events on Episode 338
Send us Fan Mail Tom Gattuso, SEMA’s Vice President of Events, joins Big Rich Klein for a wide-ranging conversation about his journey through automotive events, off-road culture, and the evolution of the SEMA Show. Gattuso shares stories from growing up near Washington, D.C., touring Europe as a jazz musician, playing varsity football, and developing the improvisational skills that shaped his career. He explains how a bold cross-country move in a ’66 Impala convertible led him from automotive sales into event production. The discussion explores his years producing auto shows and Off-Road Expo, including the importance of becoming immersed in the off-road community and embracing unconventional ideas. Gattuso also describes his transition to SEMA and the growth of signature experiences such as the SEMA Cruise, SEMA Fest, outdoor demonstrations, and expanded powersports programming. Additional topics include: How SEMA is organizing truck, off-road, powersports, and related industries The importance of protecting trails and supporting advocacy through ORBA Designing events around the needs of exhibitors, buyers, and enthusiasts The future of product innovation and automotive customization SEMA Fest’s mix of music, drifting, stunt performances, and community Gattuso offers a behind-the-scenes look at the planning, risks, teamwork, and passion required to bring the automotive industry together. Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E337
September 10 · 1 hr 32 min
Jeff Knoll’s Off-Road Journey on Episode 337
Send us Fan Mail Jeff Knoll joins Big Rich to share the winding path that took him from a childhood spent riding motorcycles and dune buggies in Southern California to becoming a major figure in off-road racing and land-use advocacy. Jeff reflects on growing up in Menifee and Glamis, his early experiences at the Boardmanville Trading Post, working through school, starting a family young, and overcoming periods of homelessness. He explains how plumbing, Jeep clubs, rock crawling, and desert racing eventually led to the creation of the California Rock Crawling Association and the early days of King of the Hammers. The conversation explores the vision behind King of the Hammers, its first competitors, the importance of media and storytelling, and Jeff’s decision to leave the event as it grew. Jeff also discusses the personal cost of the Save the Hammers campaign, which helped establish Johnson Valley’s first congressionally designated OHV area. Additional topics include Rally Venture, public-land permitting, the challenges facing motorized recreation advocacy, and Jeff’s work with One Voice. He shares why the Potato Salad Hill Cleanup Challenge remains one of his proudest accomplishments and explains how small acts of stewardship can change perceptions. Looking ahead, Jeff hopes to retire from Lincoln Electric, build a Jeep and camper setup, and return to exploring trails across the country. Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E336
September 3 · 1 hr 8 min
Master Fabber and Rock Bouncing Champion Tim Cameron on Episode 336
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Big Rich Klein sits down with rock-bouncing champion Tim Cameron, a Tennessee native whose passion for off-road racing began with four-wheelers, Jeeps, and hill climbs. Tim shares how he learned fabrication from Brian Cole and built his first full-tube-chassis buggy, Fat Girl. He discusses the evolution of his rigs, including Jenny Craig, Moon Rover, Hellraiser, Showtime, and Game Changer. His innovative use of a ProFab drop box helped redefine rock-bouncer drivetrain design. The conversation follows Tim’s transition from wild hill climbs to competitive racing. After experiencing Ultra4 suspension technology firsthand with Randy Slawson, Tim embraced bypass shocks, trailing arms, and increased wheel travel. His redesigned buggies helped him win multiple consecutive championships and influenced the direction of rock-bouncing competition. Tim also recalls his 2015 King of the Hammers debut, where he and co-pilot Cole Shirley finished 11th despite fuel-system problems. After racing more than 40 weekends a year, Tim recognized burnout and took time away from competition. During that break, he discovered dirt late-model racing and began mastering an entirely different discipline. Today, Tim continues competing in rock bouncing while developing his dirt-track career. He discusses his current buggy, 100 Shots Reloaded, plans for a super late model, and the possibility of returning to Ultra4 racing. Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E335
August 27 · 1 hr 30 min
Ski Hall of Famer, Glen Plake talks individuality in sports with Big Rich on Episode 335
Send us Fan Mail Glen Plake joins Big Rich Klein for a wide-ranging conversation about skiing, off-road racing, rock crawling, and the unexpected opportunities that shaped his life. A member of the U.S. National Ski Hall of Fame, Glen reflects on growing up in South Lake Tahoe, learning to ski at age two, and finding inspiration in the hot-dogging revolution and early ski films. He discusses his iconic mohawk, resisting the pressure to conform, and the importance of individuality in sports. Glen also shares how family, mechanics, water skiing, and Baja influenced his path. He recounts his unconventional introduction to off-road racing, including a race-saving repair during the Baja 500 and a decades-long relationship with Darren Skelton. The conversation continues with Glen’s experience on Truck Night in America, his transition into rock crawling, Trail Hero, and building and wheeling a buggy with his wife, Kimberly. Throughout, Glen emphasizes staying active, embracing uncertainty, helping others, and walking through every door that opens. His advice to the next generation is simple: believe you can—and never let anyone tell you otherwise. Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E334
August 20 · 56 min
Episode 334 features the trusted voice of Keith Purmal
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Conversations with Big Rich, Big Rich Klein talks with Keith Purmal, a 2025 Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame inductee and one of off-road racing’s most trusted voices. Keith shares stories from growing up in Las Vegas, developing an early interest in electronics and ham radio, and working in communications at Area 51 and Nevada Power Company. His lifelong passion for radio technology eventually connected him with legendary promoter Casey Folks and the Las Vegas 400. For more than four decades, Keith has coordinated race communications across Nevada, Arizona, California, and Baja. He describes the challenges of installing repeaters on remote mountaintops, managing multiple radio networks, adapting to Starlink and satellite communications, and staying calm when races take unexpected and sometimes tragic turns. Keith also reflects on Casey Folks’ leadership, the importance of volunteers, and the teamwork required to make an off-road event successful. He discusses his Hall of Fame induction, the emotion of being recognized by the racing community, and his plans with Cindy to continue supporting races while traveling and enjoying retirement. This episode celebrates the behind-the-scenes professionals who help keep racers safe and events running—and the off-road family that makes the lifestyle so special. Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E333
August 13 · 1 hr 8 min
(Still) Growing Up Rockcrawling with Lil Charlie Melchner on Episode 333
Send us Fan Mail 19-year-old rock crawler and son of off-road legend Big Charlie. Lil Charlie grew up in Carmel, New York, competing in rock crawling events since childhood. Currently pilots a Jesse Haines Moonbuggy in national competitions. Early wheeling at Todd's property in Pennsylvania began around age 3. Started driving buggies at age 8, learning from his father. First rock crawling competition at Field and Forest in New Hampshire. The family owns a marina in New York passed down through generations. Charlie helps with boat maintenance, deliveries, and buggy preparation. Took welding classes in high school. Aspires to pursue fabrication and building rock crawlers. In 2025, there was a boulder incident at WE Rock Mason, Texas—pinned under 40,000+ pound rock requiring four winches to extract. Electrical failures at recent competitions. Definitely prefer cone dodging in WE Rock events, but hopes to compete in Trailbreaker, Texas Top Gun, and Crawl Fest. Currently learning from mentors in the off-road industry, including Jesse Haines. Open to Ultra 4 racing and desert racing. Lil Charlie is considering relocating west where weather and terrain suit year-round wheeling. Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E332
August 6 · 1 hr 16 min
Robert Keller — From Mud Trucks to Rock Crawling on Episode 332
Send us Fan Mail Robert started in mud trucks around 1998 with coworkers in South Florida. Progressed through multiple vehicles: K10 Stepside on 38-inch Groundhogs, a Jimmy, and eventually a YJ and square-body GMC truck. Attended his first Ultimate Adventure in 2015 (the last pay-to-play year) and was accepted to subsequent trips. Discovered passion for genuine rock crawling rather than mud bogging. Adventure Wheelers East After feeling disconnected from the Florida Adventure Rigs group, Keller partnered with Jack Sloan to merge their communities into AWE – Adventure Wheelers East, combining adventure seekers from multiple off-road networks. The group runs annual week-long wheeling trips throughout the Southeast, attracting both media legends and newcomers. Keller emphasizes accessibility: "It might not be the hardest wheeling you've ever done, but it's going to be fun." Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E331
July 30 · 1 hr 4 min
Building Community Trust with Chad Roy on Episode 331
Send us Fan Mail Chad had a nomadic childhood with nine moves across the US by age 10. Played competitive soccer through college; choosing sports over academics. Family of machinists and farmers influenced hands-on career path. He started as a mechanic, working through transmission and fabrication shops. Became premier Hemi Jeep installer during the modification craze, but was laid off unexpectedly, then built first personal off-road buggy after failing a rock crawl in his JK. Chad still drives that original buggy. Zeus Off-Road was founded in 2016 after his wife insisted on staying in Minnesota for family support. Chad built his reputation purely through word-of-mouth and community trust, he now operates on the philosophy of customer education and consultation before major builds, emphasizing proper driver training and understanding vehicle capabilities. He advocates for gradual locker engagement and self-recovery knowledge in off-roading. Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E330
July 23 · 1 hr 13 min
Marketing entrepreneur and off-road media veteran, Cole Quinnell, on Episode 330
Send us Fan Mail Cole shares his 35-year journey from car enthusiast to magazine editor to automotive marketing business owner. Starting with dirt bikes in the New Mexico desert, he became editorial assistant at Hot Rod Magazine in 1990 before launching 4x4 Power—where he built an entry-level off-road publication alongside Trent McGee and Tori Tellem. After twelve years at Peterson Publishing, he transitioned to Chrysler, where he worked in PR for engineering and traveled globally with executives. Following the 2008 financial crisis, Cole started CQ Marketing and now serves clients including Flexlite and Dynatrac, while launching passion projects like Pavement Pounder Events. Cole emphasizes the importance of staying curious and adaptable. Career paths have dissolved—no single company will define your future. Take opportunities, fail forward, and find work that excites you daily. He credits his success to surrounding himself with passionate people and collaborating with industry leaders who cared deeply about quality and customer experience. Don't obsess over finding the perfect path. Get your degree, stay open-minded, and pursue what energizes you. Beware of working in your hobby—passion can turn to drudgery as a 9-to-5. Find the balance between funding your lifestyle and doing work that matters to you. Cole is exploring adventure tours through Pavement Pounder Events, blending his hot-rod expertise with touring experiences. Maybe he should collaborate with Big Rich on an off-road tour concept combining both their industry backgrounds and storytelling skills? Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E329
July 16 · 57 min
Family Guy John Mathews from Auburn Auto on Episode 329
Send us Fan Mail John grew up in Auburn, Washington with a passion for automotive work. He excelled in shop classes and purchased his first car—a 1968 Camaro—at age 14. After high school, he worked at a quick lube shop before joining an automotive repair facility. When the owner retired, John's parents bought the business, and after navigating early challenges, John eventually took over. The shop celebrates 30 years in business this year. Auburn Auto Repair and Off-Road operates as a 50/50 split between general repairs and off-road specialization. With three technicians and 7,500 square feet, they focus on drivetrain upgrades, lifts, and wheels for Jeeps, Toyotas, and trucks. John's youngest son recently joined the team; John hopes he'll eventually lead the business. John wheels extensively across the Pacific Northwest and beyond—Moab's iconic trails (Pritchett's, Cane Creek), Sand Hollow, and Trail Hero in Utah. He's raced Ultra4 for eight years, competing at King of the Hammers (KOH) from 2018–2025. His standout achievement: winning the EMC (4500 class) in 2022 with a flawless race. His children are all wheeling enthusiasts with their own rigs. John wants to semi-retire, delegate business management to his youngest son, and spend more time wheeling with family, exploring Colorado and the Sierra Nevadas, and enjoying life beyond work. Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E328
July 9 · 1 hr 41 min
Creating Content for the everyday build, Colt Clewley on Episode 328
Send us Fan Mail Colt Clewley is a YouTuber and off-road enthusiast from Farmington, New Mexico. He runs the channel "Colt Builds It," creating fabrication tutorials, trail guides, and adventure content focused on making off-roading knowledge accessible to everyone. Colt grew up in tiny Divide, Colorado, worked in the oil field for 18 years, and later transitioned to full-time content creation. He's known for his DIY approach, building vehicles with hand tools in driveways and sharing practical fabrication techniques through detailed YouTube videos on axle builds, roll cages, and suspension work. He's competed in WE Rock events, contributed to trail maintenance across multiple states, and recently built a recovery wrecker. Colt emphasizes the importance of competition in developing driver skills and testing vehicle capabilities on challenging terrain. A strong advocate for trail preservation, Colt collaborates with local clubs, government agencies, and other outdoor groups to keep trails open. He encourages newer off-roaders to understand that these recreation areas exist because of organized community effort and maintenance—not by accident. Colt is launching an inaugural off-road experience trip for YouTubers and companies, building a custom buggy, and planning an East Coast off-road tour to highlight underrated trails in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky. Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E327
July 2 · 1 hr 16 min
Matt Adair on Episode 327: A Life of Off-Road Adventures and Unlikely Friendships
Send us Fan Mail Matt Adair sits down with Big Rich Klein to discuss a life shaped by cars, languages, and the off-road community. Beginning as an exchange student in Germany at 16, Matt's fluency in automotive passion led him to abandon an Air Force Academy appointment for car sales. What started as a snowy day test drive of a Jeep Cherokee evolved into decades of off-roading, racing, and journalism—including pivotal roles at King of the Hammers and Crawl Magazine. Matt shares stories of serendipitous friendships forged at lakebed campfires, a memorable medical emergency at KOH, and the profound impact of community members like Camo and Jesse Combs. Today, he runs a boutique Porsche dealership while still racing a home-built Cherokee at 24-hour endurance events. Throughout the conversation, Matt emphasizes that the true reward isn't trophies or milestones—it's the remarkable people encountered along the way. As he prepares to write a book about his improbable adventures, Matt reflects on how following passions and embracing the unexpected leads to a life rich with meaningful human connection. Support the show
- Transcript

Showing 1–20 of 31 episodes