Episodios

  • Episode 60- Next-Gen Circle Boat Racers Nick Balayan, Travis Hill, and Nash Thorpe

    Episode 60- Next-Gen Circle Boat Racers Nick Balayan, Travis Hill, and Nash Thorpe
    Aug 5 2025

    In this episode of Powerboat Talk, I talk to three new flatbottom circle boat racers—Nash Thorpe, Nick Balayan, and Travis Hill—who share their backgrounds, experiences, and insights from their first race at the Southern California Speedboat Club's season opener in Parker, Arizona, this past April. The conversation covers their paths into racing, the challenges they faced as rookies, the importance of community support, and their aspirations for future races.

    They reflect on rookie mistakes and how everything changes when you strap on a helmet and go side-by-side with some of the best circle racers in the world—compared to just running your boat hard on a river or lake.

    They also discuss navigating the process and many hurdles to participate in their first race, and how their newfound friendship and support for each other made it all possible.

    Follow Nick Balayan on Instagram @nickbalayan138

    Follow Nash Thorp on Facebook @Nash Thorp

    Follow Travis Hill on Instagram @blownflat_trav

    To learn more about Circle Boat Racing, visit the Southern California Speedboat Club online
    @ www.scscracing.com

    Visit our website at www.powerboattalk.com

    View the video for this episode: www.youtube.com/@powerboat_talk

    Follow us on Instagram @powerboattalk

    and Facebook @Powerboat Talk

    Contact me: powerboattalk@gmail.com
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    1 h y 5 m
  • Episode 59- Fred Inman of IMCO

    Episode 59- Fred Inman of IMCO
    Jun 25 2025

    Fred Inman is the owner and founder of Inman Marine Corporation (IMCO), one of the largest and most respected performance aftermarket marine manufacturers in the world. Like many entrepreneurs, Inman, a metal fabricator by trade, began his career in the marine industry by making parts in his garage for his flatbottoms in the 1960s.

    After gaining experience at a similar company, Inman partnered with a friend to start his own metal fabrication business. Over the years, he produced a wide range of commercial products, including solar water heater tanks, concrete pump components, and auxiliary gas tanks for diesel cars and trucks during the gas crunch of the 1980s.

    These lucrative ventures gave Inman the capital to grow his marine business—his true passion. With the help of his three children, Belinda, Fred Jr., and Frank, IMCO evolved from building gas tanks for jet boats into a manufacturing powerhouse, producing performance exhaust systems, hydraulic steering systems, and its own line of high-performance SCX outdrives. Today, IMCO operates manufacturing facilities in both California and Nevada.

    In the episode, Inman shares his core business philosophies and explains how he stayed ahead of the curve, guided by the belief that "nothing lasts forever." He reflects on his extensive journey in the marine industry, the evolution of his company, the challenges he faced, and the critical role that family has played in his success.

    You can follow IMCO on instagram @imcomarine and Facebook @IMCO - Inman Marine Corporation Or find them online at www.inmanmarine.com

    Visit our website at www.powerboattalk.com

    View the video for this episode: www.youtube.com/@powerboat_talk

    Follow us on Instagram @powerboattalk and Facebook @Powerboat Talk

    Contact me: powerboattalk@gmail.com
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    49 m
  • Episode 58- Chris Davidson from Hot Boat and Speedboat Magazines

    Episode 58- Chris Davidson from Hot Boat and Speedboat Magazines
    May 27 2025

    In this episode, I sit down with Chris Davidson, longtime publisher of Hot Boat Magazine and current publisher of Speedboat Magazine, to reflect on nearly four decades in the performance boating industry. Chris shares his unique journey—from collecting Elvis memorabilia to shaping the voice of high-performance boating media.

    He discusses the early days of Hot Boat, his family's deep roots in the boating world, and the magazine's pivotal 1989 sale to Larry Flynt's LFP Inc., which transformed it into a nationally recognized publication. Chris also opens up about personal challenges, including a shocking betrayal by his brother Darren in 2006 that led to a hostile takeover of the magazine—and ultimately inspired Chris to launch Speedboat Magazine, now the last remaining print publication in the performance boat world.

    Throughout the conversation, Chris emphasizes the importance of teamwork, loyalty, and personal connections. He talks about how building relationships in the industry with people like Bob Leach of Eliminator Boats and Ed Borges of Eddie Marine helped him to keep his magazines moving forward. Chris credits much of his success to a trusted crew of contributors, including Kevin Spaise, Jim Wilkes, Greg Shoemaker, Fernando Escovar, and Brett Bayne. It's a candid, behind-the-scenes look at a legacy shaped by passion, perseverance, and the power of relationships.

    You can follow Speedboat Magazine on Instagram @speedboatmagazine_sb.mag and Facebook @Speedboat Magazine

    View Speedboat online and subscribe www.speedboat.com

    Visit our website at www.powerboattalk.com

    View the video for this episode: www.youtube.com/@powerboat_talk

    Follow us on Instagram @powerboattalk and Facebook @Powerboat Talk

    Contact me: powerboattalk@gmail.com
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    1 h y 3 m
  • Episode 57 - Mike Finnegan Returns!

    Episode 57 - Mike Finnegan Returns!
    May 8 2025

    Reality and YouTube star Mike Finnegan returns on this episode of Powerboat Talk. Finnegan fills us in on his new role as a full-time YouTuber following MotorTrend's recent shutdown of all its TV shows. He also gives an update on his carbon fiber Cheyenne drag boat, Side Chick, sharing some of the challenges with its injury-plagued 632 cu. in. Chevy engine and the success of a recent dyno session. Finnegan offers advice on what makes a dyno experience successful—and reveals the one mistake you should never make when buying a boat.

    Where to find Mike Finnegan:

    Instagram @finnegan999

    Facebook @mikefinnegansnews

    Youtube www.youtube.com/@finnegansgarage

    Website www.fsmgarage.com

    Visit our website at www.powerboattalk.com

    View the video for this episode: www.youtube.com/@powerboat_talk

    Follow us on Instagram @powerboattalk and Facebook @Powerboat Talk

    Contact me: powerboattalk@gmail.com
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    57 m
  • Episode 55 - Freedom One Racing Team

    Episode 55 - Freedom One Racing Team
    Apr 27 2025
    In this episode, we're talking with the team behind Freedom One Racing, a new name making waves at this year's Lake of the Ozarks Shootout. The Shootout's loose rules invite wild setups, and Freedom One didn't disappoint, bringing a brand-new 388 Skater powered by twin 4,000-hp 4.9-inch bore, all-aluminum Noonan Hemi Pro Mod drag racing engines. The boat's engines are a marvel of engineering much of which is familiar to the 1/4 mile crowd, but unconventional to general marine performance guys. Topped by PSI screw blowers, the engines feature dry blocks (no water jackets) and require no cooling system. They employ MoTeC engine management systems and route the power to the surface drives through Coan Turbo 400-style three-speed transmissions. The Freedom One boat was purpose-built for shootout style events like LOTO and came together just days before hitting the water. While some mechanical hiccups kept them from a full-speed pass, they still managed to hit 170 mph officially (202 mph unofficially). Not bad for their first outing! We hear from team members Noah and Ryan Ola and Ryan Greco, as they discuss how this project came together, their big plans to break the LOTO top speed record, and why Freedom One is more than just a racing team—it's a philanthropic effort with a mission to give back. Update: Since this episode was recorded, Freedom One Racing suffered a serious crash at the Desert Storm Shootout April 26, 2025 when the boat flipped at over 200 mph. This was the boat's first pass of the weekend and it's first run since the team's debut at the Lake of the Ozark's Shootout. While the boat was heavily damaged, the still unidentified driver and throttleman escaped with only minor injuries. As of now, we have not received an official update from the team regarding their future plans. This episode is brought to you by: SoCal Jet Boats the #1 online performance boating community forum, manufacturers of the coolest River Attire, hosts of the the Summer Tour with 6+ events along the Colorado River, and owners of The SoCal Jet Boat SpeedShop. Visit SoCal Jet Boats at www.socaljetboats.com on Instagram at @SoCalJetBoats and Facebook @SoCal Jet Boats Contact SoCal Jet Boats (702) 970-7252 orders@socaljetboats.com Follow Freedom One Racing on Instagram @freedomon_racing and on Facebook @Freedom One Racing Learn more about the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout at www.lakeoftheozarksshootout.com Visit our website at www.powerboattalk.com View the video for this episode: www.youtube.com/@powerboat_talk Follow us on Instagram @powerboattalk and Facebook @Powerboat Talk Contact me: powerboattalk@gmail.com
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    47 m
  • Episode 56 - Slug Hefner from Dirty Duck Racing

    Episode 56 - Slug Hefner from Dirty Duck Racing
    Feb 21 2025

    Slug Hefner's Dirty Duck Racing team made history at the 2024 Lake of the Ozarks Shootout (LOTO), breaking the 200 mph barrier for the first time. After falling just short of the milestone in 2023, Hefner's 438 Skater—powered by twin-turbocharged 557-cubic-inch engines—received a performance boost from a custom nitrous system designed by engine builder Carson Brummett. This upgrade propelled the boat to 202 mph, setting a new record as the fastest Skater and twin-engine boat in LOTO history.

    In this episode, Hefner shares the story behind his iconic Skater and the origins of the Dirty Duck name. He also reflects on his journey through the world of boat racing, from circle boats and drag boats to offshore racing.

    Hefner is more than just a record-setting racer—he's a well-respected business leader and dedicated philanthropist. As the owner of Hefner Furniture & Appliance in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, Slug's commitment to excellence extends beyond the water, shaping both his business and his community with the same passion he brings to powerboat racing.

    This episode is brought to you by: SoCal Jet Boats the #1 online performance boating community forum, manufacturers of the coolest River Attire, hosts of the the Summer Tour with 6+ events along the Colorado River, and owners of The SoCal Jet Boat SpeedShop.

    Visit SoCal Jet Boats at www.socaljetboats.com on Instagram at @SoCalJetBoats and Facebook @SoCal Jet Boats Contact SoCal Jet Boats (702) 970-7252 orders@socaljetboats.com

    Visit Slug Hefner and Dirty Duck Racing online at https://dirtyduckracing.com/

    Follow Dirty Duck Racing on Facebook @Dirty Duck Racing

    Learn more about the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout at www.lakeoftheozarksshootout.com

    Visit our website at www.powerboattalk.com

    View the video for this episode: www.youtube.com/@powerboat_talk

    Follow us on Instagram @powerboattalk and Facebook @Powerboat Talk

    Contact me: powerboattalk@gmail.com
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    47 m
  • Episode 54 - Billy Moore Class 1 Offshore Racer

    Episode 54 - Billy Moore Class 1 Offshore Racer
    Nov 5 2024
    Billy Moore stands as one of the most successful offshore powerboat racers competing today. Following in the footsteps of his father, Bobby Moore—widely considered the first throttle man in offshore racing—Billy "works the sticks" in both Class 1 and Super Cat. I spoke with Moore recently, just as his Defalco Racing Class 1 team celebrated back-to-back wins at Mercury Racing's Midwest Challenge in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. In addition to racing for Defalco, Moore throttles the C.J. Grant Racing/Graydel Skater in the Super Cat class. Not only did Moore gain invaluable racing insight from his legendary father, but he also learned the finer points of boat rigging and race boat setup, beginning his tenure at his father's shop at 15. In this episode,Moore shares how the Defalco team made the strategic choice to switch from an Outer Limits hull to a Victory in the offseason and the challenges and rewards that followed. Based near Moore's home in Washington, North Carolina, the Defalco team benefits from his close involvement. Moore is also a key figure at Checkmate Powerboats, which is owned by Pete Caldwell of Caldwell Marine Designs. He shares updates on Checkmate's current direction and exciting future plans, including a possible trip out west to compete in the Parker Enduro. Follow Billy Moore on Instagram @billymoore_313 and Facebook @William Moore (Billy Moore) Learn more about Class 1 Offshore Powerboat Racing @ www.class1world.com Visit Checkmate Powerboats online @ www.checkmatepowerboats.net This episode is brought to you by Freedom and Fuel clothing brand made for people who love big horsepower, fuel burning engines. It doesn't matter if you're into hot rods, off-road, side-by-sides, or, of course, fast boats, Freedom and Fuel has the gear to match your passion for power and performance. You can find freedom and fuel clothing at all ADBA and NJBA drag boat races at the SoCal Jet Boats trailer, on Instagram @freedomandfuel on Facebook @Freedom and Fuel, or online at freedomandfuel.com. Visit our website at www.powerboattalk.com View the video for this episode: www.youtube.com/@powerboat_talk Follow us on Instagram @powerboattalk and Facebook @Powerboat Talk Contact me: powerboattalk@gmail.com
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    1 h
  • Episode 53 - Warren Kosikov Vice President of Sales at SEMA

    Episode 53 - Warren Kosikov Vice President of Sales at SEMA
    Oct 24 2024

    Warren Kosikov is the Vice President of Sales for the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), an organization that represents the automotive and marine aftermarket industries while advocating for the interests of both manufacturers and consumers.

    Before joining SEMA, Kosikov held executive sales management roles at Source Interlink Media, Buckaroo Communications, Petersen Publishing, and Nordskog Publishing. His extensive background in the performance boating industry includes work with Powerboat Magazine, Hot Boat Magazine, and Family and Performance Boating Magazine.

    Kosikov emphasizes SEMA's critical role in the automotive and marine aftermarket sectors, particularly their advocacy efforts on key issues, such as defending the industry against threats like potential bans on internal combustion engines (ICE). He also provides insights into the SEMA show as well as the company's sister event, the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) shows, offering ways for consumers to get involved in both the events and the organizations behind them.

    This episode is brought to you by: SoCal Jet Boats the #1 online performance boating community forum, manufacturers of the coolest River Attire, hosts of the the Summer Tour with 6+ events along the Colorado River, and owners of The SoCal Jet Boat SpeedShop.

    Visit SoCal Jet Boats at www.socaljetboats.com on Instagram at @SoCalJetBoats and Facebook @SoCal Jet Boats Contact SoCal Jet Boats (702) 970-7252 orders@socaljetboats.com

    Visit SEMA online at https://www.sema.org/

    Visit PRI online at https://www.performanceracing.com/

    Visit our website at www.powerboattalk.com

    View the video for this episode: www.youtube.com/@powerboat_talk

    Follow us on Instagram @powerboattalk and Facebook @Powerboat Talk

    Contact me: powerboattalk@gmail.com
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    41 m