📝 Episode Description:
It’s a scorcher in the Midwest, and Jason Berg is live at Midtown Tavern for another high-octane episode of Track Talk. From roasting in the July heat to roasting himself for forgetting his laptop, Jason brings you a candid, colorful ride through the world of dirt track racing.
This week’s spotlight shines on rising GenX Late Model driver Alex Tschakert, who shares his dirt roots, racing journey, and why his throwback-style car is a nod to family tradition. Jason also unpacks his wild race weekend filled with miscommunications, crashes, near fires (!), and a top-3 finish he’s proud of — even if it almost cooked him.
⏱️ Key Moments & Timestamps:
[00:00] – 🍕 Live from Midtown Tavern
Jason sets the scene with cheese specials, Busch Light buckets, and old-school racing memories.
[06:45] – 🌪️ NASCAR, Tornadoes & Dirt Tracks
Recaps of the NASCAR Brickyard race, plus local racers dodging tornados at tracks like Watertown and Rice Lake.
[13:20] – 🏁 Alex Tschakert Interview Begins
GenX Late Model driver Alex Tschakert shares how he grew up at the track, raced karts with the Hendricksons, and transitioned through Sport Mods and Midwest Modifieds.
[22:55] – 🔧 Why GenX Late Models?
Alex explains why the GenX class fit his driving style and how family influence played a big part in his decision.
[32:40] – 🛠️ Team Behind the Driver
Alex gives shoutouts to his dad, friends, brother, and sponsors like Giant Sunflower Seeds and Skaliki Auto Repair.
[41:15] – 💬 Jason’s Race Weekend Madness
Seatbelt mishaps, trailer issues, near-misses on track, and...a puddle of spilled alcohol? Jason’s recap of a wild weekend is raw, hilarious, and relatable.
[59:30] – 🥉 First Podium in the 305 Sprint
Despite chaos, Jason pulls off a P2 heat win and a third-place feature finish — his first podium in the 305 Sprint division.
[1:14:10] – 🧼 Post-Race Reality Check
Jason reminds racers to keep cool, even in frustration:
“We’re not professional drivers, but kids are watching.”
[1:21:50] – 📅 Weekend Race Preview & Shoutouts
From Cheyenne to Greenbush, Jason previews upcoming races and highlights friends like Jory Berg, who won the Golden Hammer in Doyon.
[1:37:40] – 🎙️ Could Jason Be an Announcer?
After trying his hand at race announcing in Lisbon, Jason has newfound appreciation for regional legends like Rod Miller and Corey Litton — and wonders if this might be a new chapter.