The Cross Weight Podcast

Charlie Melvin is a third-generation race car driver carrying on a family legacy built on speed, determination, and a passion for competition. The son of racing veteran Billy Melvin, Charlie climbed behind the wheel at Birmingham International Raceway at just 9 years old and never looked back. Today, he is a multi-time track champion known for his fierce competitive spirit, consistency, and winning pedigree. Join us as we dive into Charlie's racing journey, family heritage, championship success, and what continues to drive him to the front of the pack. -God Bless

Today’s episode is a special one as my loyal wife, who’s been by my side through every high and low, takes the reins and interviews me. We dive into faith, family, and racing, sharing stories from my background, what sparked my love for the sport, and how our Savior Jesus Christ has guided us through it all. It’s an honest conversation about passion, perseverance, and keeping God at the center of every lap in life. -God Bless!

Dennis Reno Jr. is a retired race car fabricator, driver, and shock builder whose career was defined by precision, grit, and a passion for speed—including his victory at the 2008 World Classic at BIR. Today, he’s traded the racetrack for a new mission, working at a Christian radio station and sharing a message that goes far beyond racing. A walking miracle, Dennis barely survived a horrific motorcycle crash that changed the course of his life. In this episode, he opens up about that turning point and how his faith in God transformed his purpose, giving him a powerful story of redemption, resilience, and hope.  God Bless!

Today we’re joined by Tristan Crago, a native of Orland, Indiana—a dedicated father, skilled fabricator, and true wheelman behind the wheel of not one, not two, but three racecars. Tristan is known for building some seriously impressive street stock bodies, combining craftsmanship with real track performance. In this episode, we dive into how he got his start in racing, the lessons he’s picked up along the way, and even uncover a few fabrication tricks of the trade. Whether you're a racer, builder, or just love the sport, this is one you won’t want to miss.  God Bless!

From restaurant kitchens to the roar of race engines, Stan Narrison shares his journey from the food industry to becoming a 26-year racetrack promoter at Montgomery Motor Speedway and creator of the Modifieds of Mayhem series. He discusses the challenges of running a track, the resilience it takes to keep it alive, and the lessons learned along the way.  God Bless

From the roar of engines to the edge of eternity, this episode dives into the incredible story of Billy Melvin, a local Alabama race car driver known for winning races and walking away from some of the wildest wrecks on the track. But Billy’s toughest battle didn’t happen behind the wheel—it happened in a hospital bed when COVID nearly took his life. In this powerful conversation, Billy shares stories from the track, the crashes he survived, and the life-changing moment he says gave him a glimpse into heaven. It’s a story about speed, survival, faith, and the perspective you gain when you come face-to-face with death.  God Bless

Augie Grill has spent his life chasing speed — and winning when it matters most. A two-time Snowball Derby champion and one of the Southeast’s most respected Super Late Model racers, Grill built his name on grit, consistency, and big-race performances. But his toughest fight didn’t happen on the track. After battling and beating cancer, Grill climbed back behind the wheel with the same determination that’s defined his career. In this episode, he opens up about racing through adversity, overcoming life’s biggest challenge, and why — no matter the obstacle — it’s all he’s ever known. God Bless!

Wayne Hill is a master fabricator and car builder whose career has been shaped alongside racing legends like Davey Allison, Red Farmer, and Derrike Cope. Known for his craftsmanship and deep roots in the racing world, Wayne has spent decades building bodies, fine-tuning racecars, and helping teams chase speed at the highest levels of the sport. After surviving a near-fatal motorcycle accident, Wayne’s day-to-day life may look a little different—but his passion hasn’t slowed down. He’s still in the shop, still shaping metal, and still living the racer’s life on the road, touring with John Bolen and his late model team. Wayne’s story is one of resilience, grit, and a lifelong dedication to the craft behind the cars.  God Bless!

In the 90s, Teddy Rhodes was a force to be reckoned with — a multi-time track champion and one of the most popular drivers to ever race at Sayre Speedway. But his legacy goes beyond trophies and checkered flags. Teddy is also the man who helped my father get his start in racing — the mentor who set it all in motion. In this episode, we look back at the impact, influence, and lasting legacy of a driver whose mark on the track — and on our family — will live on for years to come. God Bless!

Two 17-year-old standouts, Liam England and Colton Gray, are proving they’re the next generation of short track racing. This podcast dives into how these young drivers got their start, what drives them to compete, and the passion that fuels their push toward success. More than just racing stories, it’s a reminder of why investing in youth talent matters—and how pouring into the next generation is key to keeping short track racing alive and growing. God Bless!

Kenny Hogan is pure Southeast racing grit. Since 1982, he’s been smashing fenders and cheating death in demo derbies and figure-8 races where most don’t finish. He’s won three track championships in a single season at two different tracks—twice—a feat few would even attempt. Wrecks, rivalries, and raw determination—this episode is Kenny Hogan, unfiltered. God Bless!

Today’s guest is Don Leo, a Birmingham sports mainstay whose career spans radio, racetracks, and ballparks. A longtime radio voice and track announcer at Sayre Speedway and Birmingham International Raceway, Don also served as Head of Marketing for the Texaco Havoline NASCAR team alongside the legendary Davey Allison. He later brought that same winning mindset to baseball as a marketing force behind the Birmingham Barons. From high-speed motorsports to America’s pastime, Don Leo has helped bring sports to life for fans across generations. God Bless!

Bobby and Roger Reuse are brothers, racers, and entrepreneurs with decades of experience in American motorsports. From NASCAR and the Trans-Am Series to building and running their own team, Adventures in Racing, they share stories from life at the track, lessons learned behind the wheel, and what it takes to balance racing, business, and family. Expect real talk, insider racing stories, and a behind-the-scenes look at the passion that drives them to compete.

Today’s guest is Danny Bagwell— a Cordova AL native and racer, whose journey goes far beyond the track. Known for his drive, discipline, and years of competitive racing, Danny has faced both victories and setbacks at high speed. But the most important part of his story isn’t found under the hood—it’s found in his faith in Jesus Christ. Today, we’ll hear how racing shaped him, how faith grounded him, and how both continue to define his life.  God Bless.

SEASON 1 Finale!! It all started with $75 and a dream. This episode is so important to me because these stories are the foundations of my love for racing. All i've ever wanted to do in life was to be like my Dad, and to first know me, you must first know these stories. I am so thankful Dad came over and did this episode, even though it was out of his comfort zone, he did great! I hope yall enjoy! God Bless!

Today I got to sit down with Tony Eury Jr. Tony is a veteran NASCAR crew chief and racing industry leader with decades of experience at the top levels of the sport. Best known for his work with Dale Earnhardt Jr. at DEI and later with multiple major teams, Eury Jr. has built a reputation for technical expertise, innovation, and deep racing heritage all while keeping the faith. Coming from a legendary racing family, he’s contributed to championship-caliber programs, developed drivers across NASCAR’s ranks, and continues to influence the sport through team leadership, chassis development and strong roots in Jesus! God Bless!

Tune in!!! We got a good one for yall today! I got my best friend to sit down long enough to get behind the mic and share stories from his early days of racing, and the trials and heartaches that came with entering the sport at a young age, and how those humble beginnings lead him to a multitude of wins and success! God Bless!

Tune in to hear how Pastor Mike Cox, of church H2o, came to be a part of the racing family, and how his obedience to the Lord has led over 300 lives to christ through his race track ministry! God bless!

Tune in to hear how Barry and Matt Martin got their starts in racing, and hear some classic stories from the early days of the beginnings of their racing journey, and how this father, son duo succeeds on and off the track! God Bless!

Buckle up for a deep dive into the the heart of grassroots motorsports, with Tony and Nathan Davis. Tony has seen it all, from Sayre to BIR with over 50 years of track promotion under his belt, with his son Nate by his side, he shares decades of racing wisdom, behind the scenes stories, and the unfiltered truth about what it takes to keep the engines roaring and the fans coming back!

From the adrenaline-fueled world of motorsports to the grueling distance of marathons, Gary Sanford Jr. truly embodies the spirit of accomplishment. Join us as we delve into a captivating glimpse of Lil' Gary's journey, uncovering the fascinating origins of his passion for racing. We'll explore how unwavering determination and relentless persistence have been the driving forces behind his successes, ultimately paving the way for triumphant victories. I hope you enjoy, and God Bless.

Brandon & Jim Parker are two names you have more than likely heard around grassroots racing, they are 2 generations of 4 that are involved in our sport. The history of racing runs deep with the Parkers, and so does their faith. Tune in to hear all about their humble beginnings, success stories and how they walk with God, on and off the track! God Bless!

Today I got to sit down with one of the most predominant names in grassroots motorsports, Mr. Gary Nix. Tune in to hear a glimpse of a 5 decade span of his journey in racing. He told me we could sit down and talk everyday for the next year and not cover all the stories he had, but i'm thankful for the ones I did get, and hope you guys enjoy as well. God Bless!

From go-karts, to late models, John Bolen has quite the resume when it comes to racing. Tune in to learn about how he got his start, what keeps him motivated, and where he's headed in his racing career. It was a great time getting to hang with John, and hope you enjoy our conversations! God Bless! 

Some call him "Mean Jean," others just call him Paul - but to me, he's a friend, a mentor, and one of the best men you could ever meet. Back in the day Paul was, and still is, a force to be reckoned with behind the wheel. I am beyond excited to have Paul Jean on the show, and to share his story. Tune in and please subscribe!!

Today's guest is the one and only Jimmy Wesson, Hall of Fame member, Auto Racing Pioneer member, and previous owner of Gardendale Performance. Tune in for some fantastic stories, great advice, and some good laughs! God bless.

Welcome to the Cross Weight Pod, here is a short trailer describing what you can look forward to hearing on the show. Stay tuned each week for new guests, familiar faces, and big names! God Bless!