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Off-Road Racer PodcastAuthor: JB15 Network
The Off-Road Racer Podcast covers the world of off-road racing including it's events, personalities, and history. Brought to you by OffRoadRacer.com Language: en Genres: Automotive, Leisure, Sports Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Episode 90: Bryan Folks
Episode 90
Thursday, 29 January, 2026
In this episode of the Off-Road Racer Podcast, Matt Martelli sits down with Bryan Folks, one of the most influential figures behind the scenes in modern off-road racing. From his early involvement in desert racing to helping shape major race organizations, Bryan shares a candid look at how off-road events are actually built, operated, and sustained. Bryan breaks down the realities of running large-scale races, including course design, permitting, safety, logistics, and the constant balance between racer expectations and land-use restrictions. He discusses the evolution of desert racing formats, why certain decisions are misunderstood from the outside, and how promoters are forced to adapt as the sport grows and scrutiny increases. The conversation also dives into the future of off-road racing — what racers want versus what’s feasible, how technology and vehicle performance are changing race operations, and why collaboration between racers, promoters, and land managers is more critical than ever. Bryan offers rare perspective on what it takes to keep desert racing alive in today’s environment, and what the sport must do to survive long term. This is an essential episode for anyone who wants to understand the business, politics, and decision-making that shape off-road racing beyond the start line.
