JRE #1394 – Matt Farah

This podcast explores the world of cars and car enthusiasts, featuring Matt Farah, the host of “The Smoking Tire.” The conversation delves into various topics, including car design, performance, modification, and the unique culture surrounding certain brands like Ferrari and Porsche. Beneath the surface lies a deep-rooted fascination with the power and beauty of machines, as well as the social dynamics of a community driven by speed, style, and exclusivity.

1. Matt Farah’s Unique Porsche Safari Build:

• Farah’s everyday car is a modified 911 nicknamed “Safari” featuring fog lights, bash bars, and a distinctive bus fabric interior.
• This unconventional choice reflects Farah’s personal style, prioritizing functionality and individuality over luxury and conformity.
• The bus fabric serves a practical purpose, offering durability and resistance against the elements, aligning with Farah’s active lifestyle.
• Farah embraces the unconventional, challenging traditional car enthusiast norms and promoting a more “lived-in” approach to luxury vehicles.

2. The Controversy of Modifying Ferraris:

• Farah and Rogan discuss the unique culture surrounding Ferrari ownership, where originality and “numbers matching” are highly valued.
• Ferrari enthusiasts often frown upon modifying their cars, preferring pristine, factory-spec vehicles.
• This preference stems from a reverence for heritage and a desire to preserve the car’s authenticity.
• This contrasting perspective highlights the varied approaches to car ownership, where personal taste and cultural norms clash.

3. The Rise of Electric Vehicles and Their Impact:

• Farah and Rogan discuss the rapid evolution of electric vehicles (EVs), particularly Tesla and Porsche’s offerings.
• Both acknowledge the remarkable performance capabilities of EVs, particularly in terms of acceleration and torque.
• Farah highlights the challenge of battery range and charging infrastructure, particularly in dense urban areas like Los Angeles.
• The conversation explores the potential for EVs to disrupt traditional car culture and the complex challenges of transitioning to a sustainable future.

4. The Tesla Cybertruck Controversy:

• Farah and Rogan examine the unconventional design and marketing of Tesla’s Cybertruck, questioning its feasibility and honesty.
• They dissect Elon Musk’s hype-driven approach, contrasting it with traditional car manufacturing models and emphasizing the importance of delivering promised products.
• The conversation delves into potential shortcomings of the Cybertruck, including safety concerns, manufacturing challenges, and the unrealistic timeline for its production.
• Farah expresses skepticism about the Cybertruck’s eventual success, highlighting the high stakes and potential for disappointment surrounding this highly anticipated vehicle.

5. The Fascination with Analog and Manual Transmission:

• Farah expresses nostalgia for the analog driving experience, lamenting the disappearance of manual transmission options in modern performance cars.
• He highlights the unique tactile engagement and driver involvement offered by stick shifts, contrasting it with the ease and efficiency of automatic gearboxes.
• Farah praises Porsche’s commitment to offering manual options, even as other manufacturers transition to automatics.
• The conversation reflects a desire to preserve a more traditional, visceral driving experience, even as technology prioritizes speed and convenience.

6. The Extreme World of High-End Custom Cars:

• Farah and Rogan explore the world of ultra-expensive custom cars, showcasing the Singer 911 and other bespoke creations.
• They delve into the motivations of wealthy individuals who commission such vehicles, highlighting the pursuit of exclusivity, craftsmanship, and a unique driving experience.
• The conversation reveals the immense financial investment involved in these projects, emphasizing the dedication and passion of both the creators and owners.
• Farah acknowledges the niche market for these vehicles, highlighting the extreme levels of detail and engineering that drive their creation.

7. The Allure of Mechanical Timepieces:

• Farah and Rogan express a shared appreciation for mechanical watches, highlighting their intricate engineering and craftsmanship.
• The conversation delves into the fascinating world of watch complications, showcasing the artistry and complexity of high-end timepieces.
• They discuss the historical significance of watchmaking, tracing its evolution from basic timekeeping devices to intricate works of art.
• The fascination with mechanical watches reflects a deep appreciation for precision engineering, traditional artistry, and the enduring value of objects crafted with care.

8. The Conspiratorial Nature of Human Perception:

• Farah and Rogan explore the prevalence of conspiracy theories, particularly surrounding the death of Jeffrey Epstein.
• They discuss the tendency for humans to seek patterns and explanations, even in the absence of concrete evidence.
• The conversation touches on the dangers of unchecked speculation and the need for critical thinking in evaluating information.
• The discussion highlights the complex interplay of suspicion, media influence, and the human need to make sense of the world.

9. The Impact of Technology on Communication:

• Farah and Rogan acknowledge the transformative power of social media and online communication, both positive and negative.
• They express concerns about the potential for online platforms to amplify negativity, misinformation, and polarization.
• The conversation examines the challenges of maintaining healthy boundaries and navigating online interactions in a world saturated with information.
• Farah and Rogan reflect on the evolving nature of human connection and the importance of responsible communication in an increasingly digital landscape.

10. The Environment and the Future of Transportation:

• Farah and Rogan discuss the environmental impact of transportation, highlighting the urgency of transitioning to more sustainable solutions.
• They acknowledge the role of electric vehicles in reducing emissions but also recognize the limitations of individual choices in tackling larger systemic issues.
• The conversation emphasizes the need for broader societal changes and the importance of addressing issues like global shipping and industrial practices.
• Farah expresses a pragmatic approach, acknowledging the complexity of environmental challenges while advocating for responsible action.

11. The Unpredictability of Wildlife Encounters:

• Farah shares a personal story of encountering a mountain lion in his neighborhood, highlighting the unexpected dangers of coexisting with wild animals.
• He discusses the challenges of managing wildlife populations, particularly in urbanized areas where natural habitats are encroached upon.
• The conversation touches on the delicate balance between human safety and wildlife conservation, acknowledging the need for both awareness and respect.
• Farah’s story underscores the unpredictable nature of nature and the importance of respecting the wild world that surrounds us.

12. The Fascination with the “Outlaw” Car Culture:

• Farah and Rogan discuss the subculture of car enthusiasts who embrace a more rebellious and unconventional approach to driving.
• They highlight the thrill of pushing boundaries, seeking speed, and celebrating a more visceral driving experience.
• The conversation explores the appeal of modified vehicles, especially those pushing the limits of performance and aesthetics.
• The discussion touches on the dangers associated with such pursuits, acknowledging the potential for accidents and the importance of responsible driving.

13. The Importance of Personal Taste and Individuality:

• Farah emphasizes the importance of pursuing individual taste and expressing personal style, even in the world of cars.
• He encourages embracing unconventional choices and challenging traditional norms, prioritizing personal enjoyment over conformity.
• Farah advocates for a more diverse and inclusive car culture, where individuality is celebrated and different perspectives are valued.
• The conversation highlights the power of personal expression and the importance of finding joy in pursuing individual passions.

14. The Power of Storytelling and Shared Experiences:

• Farah and Rogan acknowledge the importance of sharing stories and experiences, particularly within the realm of cars and car culture.
• They emphasize the power of storytelling to connect people, build communities, and preserve memories.
• The conversation reflects the shared passion and enthusiasm that fuels the car enthusiast community.
• Farah and Rogan demonstrate the value of conversation and the importance of connecting with others through shared interests.

15. The Evolving Landscape of Human Experience:

• Farah and Rogan reflect on the rapid pace of change in modern society, particularly the impact of technology and globalization.
• They discuss the challenges of navigating a world filled with information overload, social media pressure, and complex societal issues.
• The conversation explores the importance of maintaining a sense of perspective, finding balance, and embracing the unknown.
• Farah and Rogan acknowledge the importance of human connection, empathy, and responsible action in shaping a more equitable and sustainable future.

5 Memorable Quotes:

• “You’re selling a 750 horsepower car to someone like me. Who at least I know how to drive. You are probably in the top 20% of people in terms of driving a Philly in there. I can drive a little. Yeah. But there’s a lot of people that get those. They don’t know what happens when you stomp on the gas and go sideways.” – Rogan highlights the potential dangers of putting extreme power into the hands of inexperienced drivers.
• “I don’t think our bureaucracy can move fast enough to keep up with the technology. I think you’re a 100% right now. I don’t think culture’s some real problems. I don’t think culture can keep up.” – Rogan expresses concerns about the inability of societal structures to adapt to the rapid pace of technological change.
• “It’s like you’re taking a more than it is like you’re driving. No. Driving is the thing. Yeah. That’s what you’re doing. You’re driving.” – Farah emphasizes the visceral, almost spiritual, experience of driving, particularly in a stripped-down, analog car.
• “I don’t believe it means bad for you. I think that sedentary lifestyle, shitty foods. Yeah. People have been eating meat since the beginning of time. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. This is how we became people.” – Rogan argues that while a vegan diet can be healthy, humans have evolved with a natural omnivorous diet, and shouldn’t feel pressured to abstain from meat.
• “It doesn’t matter how fast you’re going. Just matter how fast it feels.” – Todd’s wise perspective reminds Farah and Rogan that driving enjoyment is not solely tied to speed, but to the emotional connection with the car and the driving experience.