JRE #2199 - Chris Harris

5-Sep-24

This podcast takes a deep dive into the world of Chris Harris, an automotive journalist and racing driver. Harris openly discusses his experiences, both positive and negative, in the automotive industry, including his time on Top Gear, his views on electric cars and climate change, and his passion for car modding. He also touches on a range of other topics, including his near-death experience, the influence of social media, and his perspectives on different cultures.

Underlying themes explore the complexities of following in the footsteps of legends, the inherent challenges of risk in the automotive industry, the evolving landscape of television and entertainment, and the enduring appeal of a world where passion for cars takes center stage.

Major Topics in the Podcast:

1. Chris Harris’s Time on Top Gear:

Harris joined Top Gear after Jeremy Clarkson’s departure, a decision he now regrets, acknowledging the immense popularity of Clarkson’s era.
He faced significant backlash from viewers who felt he couldn’t live up to Clarkson’s legacy.
Despite making some good films, Harris feels he was always compared unfavorably to Clarkson, highlighting the weight of expectations.
He ultimately believes that his Top Gear experience, despite its challenges, was a valuable learning opportunity.

2. The Future of Cars and Climate Change:

Harris expresses his reservations about the rapid push towards electric vehicles, arguing that the technology is not yet ready to fully replace internal combustion engines.
He criticizes the “religious ideology” surrounding climate change, arguing that a more nuanced and pragmatic approach is necessary.
He highlights the significant environmental impact of coal-fired power plants that power electric vehicles, questioning the logic of mandating a switch to electric cars while such polluting infrastructure remains.
Harris believes that the solution to climate change lies in a more flexible and localized approach to energy use, rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.

3. The Rest-o-Mod Movement and Car Modding:

Harris praises the rest-o-mod movement, arguing that it allows enthusiasts to build the cars that new car manufacturers can’t or won’t, due to regulations and the pressure to develop electric vehicles.
He sees rest-o-modding as a form of rebellion against the limitations imposed on car manufacturers, allowing for greater creativity and individual expression.
Harris highlights the fact that car companies are often unable to produce rest-o-mods due to concerns about potential litigation, a point he finds ironic given the freedom enjoyed by independent modifiers.
He believes that the rest-o-mod movement is an important reminder that car enthusiasts are not always satisfied with the offerings of mainstream manufacturers.

4. The Dangers of Television Stunts and Production Pressure:

Harris recounts a near-death experience on Top Gear when his co-host, Andrew Flintoff, crashed a Morgan 3-wheeler, highlighting the inherent risks involved in creating high-octane television.
He reveals that he had previously raised concerns about the safety of the show to the BBC, arguing that the pursuit of ever-more-spectacular stunts was becoming dangerously reckless.
Harris criticizes the BBC’s handling of the situation, suggesting that his warnings were not taken seriously and that he was ultimately abandoned after the incident.
He attributes much of the pressure for reckless stunts to producers who lack the experience and understanding of the vehicles involved.

5. The Rise of YouTube and the Impact of Social Media:

Harris sees YouTube as a liberating platform for automotive content creators, free from the constraints of traditional television and the influence of network executives.
He highlights the vast amount of automotive content available on YouTube, acknowledging both the benefits and the challenges of a saturated market.
Harris discusses the challenges of adapting to the algorithm-driven nature of YouTube, emphasizing the importance of finding a niche audience and creating unique content.
He believes that YouTube is a natural fit for his own brand of automotive content, free from the pressure to create sensationalized stunts and catering to a niche audience of car enthusiasts.

6. The Influence of Elon Musk and Tesla:

Harris admires Elon Musk’s entrepreneurial spirit and his ability to disrupt industries, particularly the automotive industry.
He acknowledges Tesla’s significant impact on the car market, noting its widespread adoption in a relatively short period.
While he has reservations about electric cars in general, Harris recognizes Tesla’s impressive performance and the company’s pioneering role in electric vehicle technology.
He expresses a fascination with Musk’s future endeavors, anticipating the next big disruption he might create.

7. The Dark Side of Social Media and Online Toxicity:

Harris discusses the pervasive negativity and toxicity found on social media platforms, particularly on Twitter, acknowledging the impact it had on his own mental health.
He highlights the anonymity of online trolls, allowing them to spew hate and vitriol without consequence, creating a toxic environment for public figures.
Harris advises against engaging with online negativity, advocating for a “post and ghost” approach, focusing on creating content and ignoring the trolls.
He expresses concern about the potential for social media platforms to manipulate public opinion through the use of bots and artificial narratives.

8. The Importance of Honesty and Integrity in Automotive Journalism:

Harris emphasizes the importance of providing honest and unbiased reviews of cars, rejecting the pressure to conform to predetermined narratives or to exaggerate for entertainment purposes.
He criticizes the trend of adding extraneous comedy elements to car reviews, arguing that they distract from the core purpose of providing informative and insightful assessments.
Harris believes that his strength lies in his ability to provide a rigorous and insightful perspective on cars, without resorting to sensationalism or superficiality.
He sees YouTube as a platform where he can freely pursue his passion for cars without compromising his integrity.

9. The Complexities of Cultural Differences and National Stereotypes:

Harris discusses the significant cultural differences between the UK and the US, specifically regarding gun ownership and the role of government.
He acknowledges the distinct perspectives on these issues, emphasizing that while he may not personally understand or agree with certain aspects of American culture, he recognizes the validity of these differences.
Harris also highlights the importance of respecting cultural nuances and avoiding generalizations, advocating for a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of different societies.
He suggests that the shared language between the UK and the US can sometimes create a false sense of understanding, masking deeper cultural differences.

10. The Importance of Personal Responsibility and Self-Assessment:

Harris advises young people in the content creation world to maintain their own sense of integrity and to avoid being swayed by the constant pressure for validation.
He emphasizes the importance of self-assessment, recognizing both strengths and weaknesses, and using criticism as fuel for improvement.
Harris warns against succumbing to “audience capture,” where creators become overly reliant on positive feedback and lose sight of their own values and goals.
He believes that a healthy balance between self-reflection and objective assessment is crucial for navigating the complexities of online influence and public opinion.

11. The Enduring Appeal of the Internal Combustion Engine:

Harris, despite his reservations about the future of the internal combustion engine, acknowledges its inherent appeal and the joy it brings to driving enthusiasts.
He highlights the tactile and visceral experience of driving a powerful car with a combustion engine, arguing that electric cars can’t fully replicate this feeling.
Harris emphasizes the importance of appreciating the technological advancements that have made internal combustion engines more efficient and powerful.
He believes that, even in a world dominated by electric vehicles, the internal combustion engine will continue to hold a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts.

12. The Fascination with the Unknown and the Search for Bigfoot:

Harris discusses the enduring fascination with Bigfoot, a creature that continues to captivate the imagination despite lacking definitive scientific proof.
He highlights the appeal of the unknown, particularly in the vast wilderness areas of North America, where the possibility of undiscovered creatures persists.
Harris acknowledges that, while he may not personally believe in Bigfoot, he finds the idea of such a creature fascinating and he respects the views of those who do.
He highlights the importance of maintaining a sense of wonder and curiosity about the natural world, even in the face of skepticism.

13. The Importance of Physical Strength and Resilience:

Harris marvels at the incredible resilience of his friend Andrew Flintoff, who survived a horrific crash despite not wearing a helmet, highlighting the importance of physical strength and conditioning.
He emphasizes the role of physical fitness in surviving potentially life-threatening situations, suggesting that Flintoff’s strength was a crucial factor in his recovery.
Harris acknowledges that, while he may not be a professional athlete, he appreciates the value of physical fitness and the role it plays in enhancing overall well-being.
He uses Flintoff’s story as a reminder of the importance of pushing oneself physically and mentally.

14. The Wild and Unpredictable World of Animals:

Harris expresses a fascination with the wild and unpredictable nature of animals, particularly bears, highlighting their immense power and potential danger.
He recounts a story about a friend’s encounter with a grizzly bear, emphasizing the terrifying and unpredictable nature of such animals.
Harris discusses the importance of respecting animals and recognizing their inherent wildness, rather than anthropomorphizing them or viewing them as pets.
He highlights the importance of understanding the inherent dangers of the natural world and the need for caution when encountering wild animals.

15. The Unpredictability of Life and the Power of Coincidence:

Harris explores the concept of coincidence, suggesting that some events in life may be beyond rational explanation and that the line between fate and chance can be blurred.
He discusses the deaths of Mike Lynch and Stephen Chamberlain, who were both involved in a fraud trial, highlighting the remarkable coincidence of their passing on the same day.
Harris acknowledges the potential for such coincidences to fuel conspiracy theories, but he ultimately refrains from making definitive judgments, emphasizing the complex nature of life’s events.
He highlights the importance of considering all possibilities and acknowledging the limits of human understanding when faced with seemingly inexplicable events.

16. The Art of Cheating in Motorsport:

Harris shares anecdotes about the history of cheating in motorsport, highlighting the ingenuity and competitive spirit that drive some individuals to push the boundaries of the rules.
He discusses the “unfair advantage,” a concept central to motorsport, where teams and drivers constantly seek ways to gain an edge, sometimes through unconventional means.
Harris describes specific instances of cheating in Formula One and rallying, showcasing the creative and often ingenious tactics employed by those seeking to win at any cost.
He acknowledges the inherent thrill of the chase and the tension that arises when pushing the boundaries of rules, even if it involves crossing ethical lines.

17. The Importance of Maintaining a Sense of Wonder:

Harris emphasizes the importance of maintaining a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world, even in the face of cynicism and skepticism.
He highlights the beauty and awe-inspiring nature of the natural world, referencing his experiences encountering bears, crabs, and the vastness of Kazakhstan.
Harris advocates for embracing the unknown and challenging preconceived notions, encouraging listeners to maintain a sense of wonder and open-mindedness.
He believes that the ability to appreciate the extraordinary, both in the natural world and in the realm of human ingenuity, is essential for living a fulfilling life.

18. The Power of Passion and the Pursuit of Dreams:

Harris, despite his setbacks and disappointments, remains passionate about cars and his desire to share that passion with others.
He emphasizes the importance of pursuing one’s passions, even when facing obstacles and criticism.
Harris believes that his journey, while not always smooth, has ultimately allowed him to connect with a community of like-minded individuals and to pursue his dreams.
He encourages listeners to embrace their passions and to never give up on their dreams, no matter the challenges they face.

19. The Uniqueness of Texas Culture:

Harris shares his observations about Texas culture, highlighting the state’s unique blend of progressivism and traditional values, epitomized by the contrast between Austin and the surrounding rural areas.
He acknowledges the importance of recognizing and respecting these cultural differences, avoiding generalizations and stereotypes.
Harris expresses a fascination with Texas history and the state’s rugged individualism, noting the influence of the Comanche and the Texas Rangers.
He suggests that Texas is a place where one can find both the wildness of the frontier and the sophistication of a thriving city, offering a unique blend of experiences.

20. The Value of Human Connection and the Importance of Friends:

Harris emphasizes the importance of human connection and the value of friendships, highlighting his close bonds with fellow automotive enthusiasts and his appreciation for their support.
He discusses the role of friends in providing perspective and encouragement during challenging times, acknowledging their importance in navigating life’s ups and downs.
Harris highlights the power of shared passions, noting how his friendships with Matt LeBlanc, Steve Rinella, and others have enriched his life.
He suggests that strong friendships are essential for building a fulfilling and meaningful life.

Memorable Quotes:

“I made the wrong call. I shouldn’t have done it.” – Chris Harris reflecting on his decision to join Top Gear after Jeremy Clarkson’s departure.
“The greenest thing you can do is to go and buy an old Ferrari.” – Harris’s humorous take on the environmental impact of purchasing a classic car.
“You know, it’s quite a clever thing if you were to invite an alien down in that vehicle there and try and show off what we’re capable of. You might show them a Raptor R and go, ‘We did that. We’re quite clever.'” – Harris expressing pride in the ingenuity of the internal combustion engine.
“You just got to, you know, I just turn up and I assess what I see and I do what I’m comfortable with and I want to make great television. That’s it.” – Harris defining his approach to risk and his desire to create compelling content.
“I just love going places. As long as they’re accustomed to it, that’s the thing.” – Harris explaining his love for taking his dog, Pip, on adventures in his cars.

JRE #2199 – Chris Harris