Speed Secrets Podcast

Jeff Braun, a top-tier race car engineer known for his clarity in explaining complex car dynamics, joins forces with Sam Smith, a witty journalist and amateur racer. They tackle thought-provoking questions about decision-making in uncertainty and delve into the technical art of downshifting. With anecdotes and insights on driver feedback, they emphasize the synergy between engineers and racers in optimizing performance. The conversation is dynamic, blending personal stories with technical expertise, making it a must-listen for motorsport enthusiasts!

Join Jeff Braun, a top race car engineer with rich experience across racing disciplines, and Sam Smith, a witty storyteller and amateur racer with a knack for automotive journalism. They dive into improving instruction for intermediate drivers, exploring effective communication and tailored strategies. The duo also unpacks the intricacies of damper tuning in sim racing, emphasizing how different settings influence performance. Their discussions highlight the importance of storytelling in motorsports and set the stage for an exciting new podcast venture!

In this discussion, race car engineer Jeff Braun shares insights from his rich experience in NASCAR and other racing leagues. He tackles the pros and cons of working with engineers-turned-drivers versus those who aren't, emphasizing how clear communication shapes performance. Jeff explains the challenges of balancing dual roles when you're both the driver and engineer, and highlights the importance of self-inquiry for improving driving skills. He stresses the need for focused questions to enhance track performance and the mental strategies that drive success.

In this lively discussion, Jeff Braun, a world-renowned race car engineer with expertise in NASCAR, Indy, and more, tackles intriguing questions about the future of technology in motorsports. He explores whether driverless cars can truly be considered 'racing.' The conversation dives into the contrasts between human and AI driving skills, the role of machine learning in performance, and how AI may change the dynamics of racing culture. Jeff's ability to demystify complex concepts makes this a must-listen for any motorsport enthusiast!

Jeff Braun joins to share his extensive expertise as a top-tier race car engineer, having worked across NASCAR, Indy, and beyond. He discusses the critical differences between race and qualifying setups, emphasizing the importance of tire pressure and grip optimization. Listeners learn about the mental pressures drivers face during qualifying and how proper head positioning can influence performance. Braun also shares insights on adapting driving techniques and the historical perspectives of great racers, all laced with humor and interesting anecdotes.

Welcome back to another episode of No Dumb Questions! Jeff Braun and I sit down to answer your questions, and we promise – there are no dumb questions, maybe just some dumb answers.   On this episode, Ross answers how a driver can clear his/her mind of finding the same person repeatedly and running his/her own race, and Jeff answers what speed “aero” downforce starts happening.   Jeff is one of the very best race car engineers in the world. He’s engineered cars at every level, and every type: NASCAR, karts, club racing cars, Indy, GT and Prototypes, and even Top Fuel dragsters. But what sets Jeff apart from many engineers is how he can explain what he’s doing, what a car is doing, and even how the best think.

Welcome back to another episode of No Dumb Questions! Jeff Braun and I sit down to answer your questions, and we promise – there are no dumb questions, maybe just some dumb answers. On this episode, Jeff and I tackle two great questions: is there ever a time when you would use understeer to your advantage; is there anything in racing/car setup that is definitive and absolute or does the entire motorsport world really always come down to doing what works best for an individual scenario? Jeff is one of the very best race car engineers in the world. He’s engineered cars at every level, and every type: NASCAR, karts, club racing cars, Indy, GT and Prototypes, and even Top Fuel dragsters. But what sets Jeff apart from many engineers is how he can explain what he’s doing, what a car is doing, and even how the best think.

Welcome back to another episode of No Dumb Questions! Jeff Braun and I sit down to answer your questions, and we promise – there are no dumb questions, maybe just some dumb answers. On this episode, Jeff and I discuss the best way to lean your body while turning; how to set up for a turn; and considerations when thinking about driver weight, ballast weight, and how to minimize the impact of uneven side to side weight. Jeff is one of the very best race car engineers in the world. He’s engineered cars at every level, and every type: NASCAR, karts, club racing cars, Indy, GT and Prototypes, and even Top Fuel dragsters. But what sets Jeff apart from many engineers is how he can explain what he’s doing, what a car is doing, and even how the best think.

Welcome back to another episode of No Dumb Questions! Jeff Braun and I sit down to answer your questions, and we promise – there are no dumb questions, maybe just some dumb answers. On this episode, Jeff and I discuss driver fatigue; driving style and car set up for bigger, heavier driver; and our favorite and least favorite turns on a race track from a car setup perspective versus driving perspective. Jeff is one of the very best race car engineers in the world. He’s engineered cars at every level, and every type: NASCAR, karts, club racing cars, Indy, GT and Prototypes, and even Top Fuel dragsters. But what sets Jeff apart from many engineers is how he can explain what he’s doing, what a car is doing, and even how the best think.

Welcome back to another episode of No Dumb Questions! Jeff Braun and I sit down to answer your questions, and we promise – there are no dumb questions, maybe just some dumb answers.  On this episode, Jeff and I discuss what single quantifiable thing relating to a race car are we still unable to reliably measure that would be most useful for finding performance and eye placement when tracking a car. This week’s episode also features a bonus question… tune in to hear what question Ross has for Jeff! Jeff is one of the very best race car engineers in the world. He’s engineered cars at every level, and every type: NASCAR, karts, club racing cars, Indy, GT and Prototypes, and even Top Fuel dragsters. But what sets Jeff apart from many engineers is how he can explain what he’s doing, what a car is doing, and even how the best think.