Sociology of Cars Podcast

Jimmy Xie

🔬Sociology on the go 🎙️The people’s show;📰Local car news 🎬Watch promo reel;

  1. When the Wrong Shop Gets Your Dream Car | Rice & Beans

    2D AGO

    When the Wrong Shop Gets Your Dream Car | Rice & Beans

    This week, Scott Kelly, Vice President of the Porsche Club of America Los Angeles Chapter and host of the Rennstreet Podcast, joins Jimmy ("Rice) and Nate ("Beans") to talk about the nightmare no enthusiast wants to live through: watching your dream car become someone else’s unfinished project. After his highly modified 996 Turbo blew its engine, Scott trusted a builder with serious credentials -- only to spend years waiting, questioning, and eventually facing a discovery that shattered the trust behind the entire rebuild. The conversation explores the side of car ownership nobody posts online: the anxiety, helplessness, and heartbreak of not knowing if the car you love will ever come back the same. Between the jokes, the anger, and the hard-earned lessons, one fear sits at the center of it all: once your car is in someone else’s hands, how much control do you really have? Rice & Beans is a humor-driven automotive podcast rooted in Southern California car culture, focused on canyon carving, driving passion, and the people behind the wheel. Through relaxed, conversational episodes, the show explores the many sides of the automotive community while highlighting how similar drivers really are — no matter what they drive. From current events shaping the Southern California car scene to deeper conversations about driving technique, responsibility, and community growth, Rice & Beans dives into what’s happening now and where car culture is headed. The podcast aims to connect drivers, strengthen the canyon carving community, and promote safer, more fulfilling driving experiences through shared stories, perspectives, and passion. Nate Rodriguez and Jimmy Xie are the hosts of Rice & Beans, a program of the Sociology of Cars Podcast. Follow Nate at: https://www.instagram.com/nayt83/?hl=en Reach out to Nate:  nate@sociology-of-everything.com. Reach out to Jimmy: jimmy@sociology-of-everything.com. Scott Kelly is the Vice President of the Porsche Club of America Los Angeles Chapter and host of the Rennstreet Podcast. Follow Scott at: https://www.instagram.com/scottkelly911tt/ https://www.instagram.com/rennstreetpodcast/ Sociology of Cars Podcast is produced by Sociology of Everything, supported by Havana Cigar Lounge in Hesperia, CA.  Follow Havana Cigar Lounge at:  https://www.instagram.com/havanacigarlounge/.

    1h 20m
  2. When Driving Stops Being Everything | Shifted Perspective

    APR 30

    When Driving Stops Being Everything | Shifted Perspective

    Nick Alaoui’s journey into driving doesn’t follow the traditional script. Starting with video games and sim racing, he discovered a natural ability that opened doors into real-world racing and coaching, eventually leading him to work at both Spring Mountain’s Corvette driving school and the Porsche Experience Center in Los Angeles. But his path also forced him to confront the realities behind the dream -- from unexpected mentorships and the financial pressures of motorsports to the realization that passion alone isn’t always enough to sustain a career. Now balancing coaching with graduate studies, the conversation becomes a deeper reflection on identity, timing, learning when to pursue driving and when to redefine its role in life. Shifted Perspective is where passion meets profession. Hosted by former Engineering Test Driver and former Porsche Driving Instructor, Shift, the podcast bridges the gap between car enthusiasts and the professionals who live and breathe the automotive and racing industries. Through simplified education and real conversations, this new season spotlights diverse career pathways, insider knowledge, and the mindset required to succeed behind the wheel and beyond. Shift is the host of Shifted Perspective, a program of the Sociology of Cars Podcast. Follow him at: https://www.instagram.com/shift__robinson/ https://www.tiktok.com/@shift__robinson?_t=ZP-8zDOVsPYm3a&_r=1 https://youtube.com/@shift__robinson?si=GPWXQb7Or3qsAhF3 Reach out to Shift:  shift@sociology-of-everything.com. Nick Alaoui is a performance-driving instructor. Follow him at:  https://www.instagram.com/nickalaoui/ Sociology of Cars Podcast is produced by Sociology of Everything, supported by Havana Cigar Lounge in Hesperia, CA.  Follow Havana Cigar Lounge at:  https://www.instagram.com/havanacigarlounge/.

    47 min
  3. Why Car Culture Pushes People Away | Rice & Beans

    APR 22

    Why Car Culture Pushes People Away | Rice & Beans

    This week, Jimmy ("Rice") and Nate ("Beans") are joined by Shift ("Black Beans") for a conversation that goes far beyond cars. What starts as a recap of their first seminar venture quickly turns into something deeper -- why so many drivers feel shut out of car culture, how bad coaching and ego kill passion, and what happens when someone finally gets it right. From a $1,000 coaching nightmare to complete beginners finding their footing on track, this episode explores what it really takes to build confidence, community, and trust in a space that often lacks all three. Because sometimes, all it takes is one good experience to change everything. Rice & Beans is a humor-driven automotive podcast rooted in Southern California car culture, focused on canyon carving, driving passion, and the people behind the wheel. Through relaxed, conversational episodes, the show explores the many sides of the automotive community while highlighting how similar drivers really are — no matter what they drive. From current events shaping the Southern California car scene to deeper conversations about driving technique, responsibility, and community growth, Rice & Beans dives into what’s happening now and where car culture is headed. The podcast aims to connect drivers, strengthen the canyon carving community, and promote safer, more fulfilling driving experiences through shared stories, perspectives, and passion. Nate Rodriguez and Jimmy Xie are the hosts of Rice & Beans, a program of the Sociology of Cars Podcast. Follow Nate at: https://www.instagram.com/nayt83/?hl=en Reach out to Nate:  nate@sociology-of-everything.com. Reach out to Jimmy: jimmy@sociology-of-everything.com. Shift is the host of Shifted Perspective, a program of the Sociology of Cars Podcast. Follow him at: https://www.instagram.com/shift__robinson/ https://www.tiktok.com/@shift__robinson?_t=ZP-8zDOVsPYm3a&_r=1 https://youtube.com/@shift__robinson?si=GPWXQb7Or3qsAhF3 Sociology of Cars Podcast is produced by Sociology of Everything, supported by Joevil Motorsports in City of Industry, CA.  Follow Joevil Motorsports at:  https://www.instagram.com/joevil_motorsports/.

    1h 9m
  4. Racing While Hungry and Broke | Shifted Perspective

    APR 15

    Racing While Hungry and Broke | Shifted Perspective

    This week, racing driver and performance-driving instructor Ren Messinger shares the reality of pursuing a racing career without shortcuts, from sim-racing beginnings to competing in Spec Miata while navigating financial hardship and personal sacrifice. He opens up about the years of struggle -- living on almost nothing, sleeping in his car, and pouring everything into racing with no guarantee of success. As the path forward becomes uncertain, the conversation turns to something deeper: what it means to keep going when the dream doesn’t unfold as planned, and how to find balance between passion, survival, and a life beyond the track. Shifted Perspective is where passion meets profession. Hosted by former Engineering Test Driver and former Porsche Driving Instructor, Shift, the podcast bridges the gap between car enthusiasts and the professionals who live and breathe the automotive and racing industries. Through simplified education and real conversations, this new season spotlights diverse career pathways, insider knowledge, and the mindset required to succeed behind the wheel and beyond. Shift is the host of Shifted Perspective, a program of the Sociology of Cars Podcast. Follow him at: https://www.instagram.com/shift__robinson/ https://www.tiktok.com/@shift__robinson?_t=ZP-8zDOVsPYm3a&_r=1 https://youtube.com/@shift__robinson?si=GPWXQb7Or3qsAhF3 Reach out to Shift:  shift@sociology-of-everything.com. Ren Messinger is a racing driver and performance-driving instructor. Follow him at:  https://www.instagram.com/renmessinger?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== Sociology of Cars Podcast is produced by Sociology of Everything, supported by Joevil Motorsports in City of Industry, CA.  Follow Joevil Motorsports at:  https://www.instagram.com/joevil_motorsports/.

    40 min
  5. Why Do You Drive, Really? | Rice & Beans

    MAR 29

    Why Do You Drive, Really? | Rice & Beans

    This week, Jimmy ("Rice") and Nate ("Beans") start with a simple question, "Why do we drive?" which quickly unravels something much deeper. What begins as a conversation about therapy and escape expands into identity, belongingness, and the unspoken social dynamics of car culture. From the quiet reset of a solo drive to the subtle pressure of reputation, status, and social perceptions within the scene, this episode pulls apart what actually fuels the passion. Because when you strip everything away, the real question isn’t what you drive -- it's why you drive at all.  Rice & Beans is a humor-driven automotive podcast rooted in Southern California car culture, focused on canyon carving, driving passion, and the people behind the wheel. Through relaxed, conversational episodes, the show explores the many sides of the automotive community while highlighting how similar drivers really are — no matter what they drive. From current events shaping the Southern California car scene to deeper conversations about driving technique, responsibility, and community growth, Rice & Beans dives into what’s happening now and where car culture is headed. The podcast aims to connect drivers, strengthen the canyon carving community, and promote safer, more fulfilling driving experiences through shared stories, perspectives, and passion. Nate Rodriguez and Jimmy Xie are the hosts of Rice & Beans, a program of the Sociology of Cars Podcast. Follow Nate at: https://www.instagram.com/nayt83/?hl=en Reach out to Nate:  nate@sociology-of-everything.com. Reach out to Jimmy: jimmy@sociology-of-everything.com. Sociology of Cars Podcast is produced by Sociology of Everything, supported by Joevil Motorsports in City of Industry, CA.  Follow Joevil Motorsports at:  https://www.instagram.com/joevil_motorsports/.

    44 min
  6. Crashing Cars on Purpose: The Life of a Stunt Driver | Shifted Perspective

    MAR 16

    Crashing Cars on Purpose: The Life of a Stunt Driver | Shifted Perspective

    This week, stunt driver Graham Hooper shares the story behind a career built on curiosity, relentless practice, and a willingness to chase an unconventional path. From growing up inspired by iconic car films to moving to Los Angeles with little more than determination, Graham recounts the years of training, repetition, and learning that transformed a passion for driving into a profession. The conversation explores the psychology of performing dangerous stunts, the discipline required to execute them safely, and the constant pursuit of improvement that drives him forward. More than a story about stunt driving, this episode becomes a reflection on mindset, growth, and the pursuit of mastery behind the wheel. Shifted Perspective is where passion meets profession. Hosted by former Engineering Test Driver and current Porsche Driving Instructor, Shift, the podcast bridges the gap between car enthusiasts and the professionals who live and breathe the automotive and racing industries. Through simplified education and real conversations, this new season spotlights diverse career pathways, insider knowledge, and the mindset required to succeed behind the wheel and beyond. Shift is the host of Shifted Perspective, a program of the Sociology of Cars Podcast. Follow him at: https://www.instagram.com/shift__robinson/ https://www.tiktok.com/@shift__robinson?_t=ZP-8zDOVsPYm3a&_r=1 https://youtube.com/@shift__robinson?si=GPWXQb7Or3qsAhF3 Reach out to Shift:  shift@sociology-of-everything.com. Graham Hooper is a performance-driving instructor and stunt driver. Follow him at:  https://www.instagram.com/hooperstunts?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== Sociology of Cars Podcast is produced by Sociology of Everything, supported by Chewerks in La Habra, CA.  Follow Chewerks at:  https://www.instagram.com/chewerks/.

    57 min
  7. Canyon Car Mods 101 | Rice & Beans

    MAR 3

    Canyon Car Mods 101 | Rice & Beans

    This week, Jimmy ("Rice") and Nate ("Beans") dive deep into the world of car mods tailored for canyon carving and occasional track days. They break down everything from the importance of tire choice (and why low-grip tires should be illegal!) to brake upgrades, suspension tweaks, and even why a seat can transform your driving experience. Whether you’re a canyon veteran or prepping for your first track day, this episode blends practical tips with entertaining banter to ensure that you’re not just modding, but modding right! Rice & Beans is a humor-driven automotive podcast rooted in Southern California car culture, focused on canyon carving, driving passion, and the people behind the wheel. Through relaxed, conversational episodes, the show explores the many sides of the automotive community while highlighting how similar drivers really are — no matter what they drive. From current events shaping the Southern California car scene to deeper conversations about driving technique, responsibility, and community growth, Rice & Beans dives into what’s happening now and where car culture is headed. The podcast aims to connect drivers, strengthen the canyon carving community, and promote safer, more fulfilling driving experiences through shared stories, perspectives, and passion. Nate Rodriguez and Jimmy Xie are the hosts of Rice & Beans, a program of the Sociology of Cars Podcast. Follow Nate at: https://www.instagram.com/nayt83/?hl=en Reach out to Nate:  nate@sociology-of-everything.com. Reach out to Jimmy: jimmy@sociology-of-everything.com. Sociology of Cars Podcast is produced by Sociology of Everything, supported by Chewerks in La Habra, CA.  Follow Chewerks at:  https://www.instagram.com/chewerks/.

    1h 12m
  8. Karting to Career: Rocco Ruzic’s Journey into Driving | Shifted Perspective

    FEB 24

    Karting to Career: Rocco Ruzic’s Journey into Driving | Shifted Perspective

    In this debut episode of Season 4, Shift sits down with Rocco Ruzic, whose journey began in karting as a young enthusiast and evolved into a performance-driving instructor. Rocco takes us through what it really means to get into karting -- the passion, the budget, and the life lessons learned on the track. By sharing how those formative experiences translate into road skills and coaching others, he gives us an insider’s view of how the karting journey shapes a driver’s mindset. It’s a conversation full of practical insight and the true passion behind the wheel! Shifted Perspective is where passion meets profession. Hosted by former Engineering Test Driver and current Porsche Driving Instructor, Shift, the podcast bridges the gap between car enthusiasts and the professionals who live and breathe the automotive and racing industries. Through simplified education and real conversations, this new season spotlights diverse career pathways, insider knowledge, and the mindset required to succeed behind the wheel and beyond. Shift is the host of Shifted Perspective, a program of the Sociology of Cars Podcast. Follow him at: https://www.instagram.com/shift__robinson/ https://www.tiktok.com/@shift__robinson?_t=ZP-8zDOVsPYm3a&_r=1 https://youtube.com/@shift__robinson?si=GPWXQb7Or3qsAhF3 Reach out to Shift:  shift@sociology-of-everything.com. Rocco Ruzic is a performance-driving instructor. Follow him at:  https://www.instagram.com/rocco_ruzic?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== https://www.instagram.com/roccoraces?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== Sociology of Cars Podcast is produced by Sociology of Everything, supported by Chewerks in La Habra, CA.  Follow Chewerks at:  https://www.instagram.com/chewerks/.

    24 min
5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

🔬Sociology on the go 🎙️The people’s show;📰Local car news 🎬Watch promo reel;

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