The DPV Podcast

in this episode

In this episode, The boys dive deep into the age-old debate: Built vs. Bought. From Alex’s "porpoising" 11-inch dropped VW bus to his take on why a "blood sacrifice" (and a few busted knuckles) is required for a project to truly be called a build, they break down why starting in stages is the best way to learn. Plus, we get a shop update on Josh’s roof-screwing marathon and a potential "vacation Jeep" find in Arizona. To wrap it all up, they kick off a new Fantasy Build segment: The 5-Year Shop Truck Challenge. Josh dreams up a crawling machine out of an '81 Bronco while Alex tries to figure out how to make a roached '64 International Scout roadworthy on a shoestring budget.Download the DPV Starter Pack!!! https://daysofpainandvictory.com/starter-pack/ Get some new grips at Priority Tire!!! https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-101439308-13667289 Join our mailing list for sneak peeks and more! http://eepurl.com/inlcEs MERCH!!! https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.site

What up, guys! Welcome back to the Days of Pain and Victory podcast. In Episode 26, Josh and Alex are diving deep into something that’s close to every car guy’s heart: Movie Cars. We’re breaking down the difference between "car movies" and "iconic movie cars," sharing our personal Top 5 lists, and—more importantly—laughing at all the mechanical "logic" Hollywood gets wrong. From the 47-speed transmissions in Fast and the Furious to the indestructible suspension on the General Lee, we’re calling out the myths while celebrating the rigs that inspired us to pick up a wrench in the first place.

in this episode

In this episode of the DPV Podcast, Josh and Alex return to where the journey started—Alex's dad’s shop—to recap an incredible 2025 and look ahead to their 2026 builds. It was a year defined by the "Pain and Victory" cycle, featuring everything from an 1,800-mile trek from Arizona in a Suburban with no 3rd gear to the heartbreak of a snapped memory card losing a prime video project. The guys celebrate major 2025 victories, including finishing the Jeep’s roll cage, conquering the Rubicon Trail, and the pure joy of wheeling with Dirthead Dave. Looking forward to 2026, the calendar is wide open but the goals are big: getting "Bob" to the OG Gambler, completing a third motor swap on "Grandpa’s Truck," and finally getting the "White Suburban" road-ready for daily driving. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or still on the sidelines, the guys are here to push you into the garage with their new "Stop Watching, Start Wrenching" starter kit—a free guide and budget tracker to help you get your project trail-ready for the 2026 cruise season. Wheel it, Wreck it, Wrench it, Repeat! Download the DPV Starter Pack!!! https://daysofpainandvictory.com/starter-pack/ Get some new grips at Priority Tire!!! https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-101439308-13667289 Join our mailing list for sneak peeks and more! http://eepurl.com/inlcEs MERCH!!! https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.site

In this episode, we break down shop build planning at 3 different budget points, and give a bunch of tips and tricks for you to get the most out of your shop

In our endless search for cheap parts, we're tackling the classic "motorhome big block" idea. Is this a genius-level budget hack for cheap power, or a truly terrible idea that ends in frustration, rusted bolts, and us questioning our life choices?Join Alex and Josh as we debate if this path leads to Victory... or just a whole lot of Pain.Join our mailing list for sneak peeks and more! http://eepurl.com/inlcEsMERCH!!! https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteGet some new grips at Priority Tire!!! https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-101439305-13402739?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.prioritytire.com%2Fby-brand%2Fhankook-tires%2Fdynapro-at2-xtreme%3Fvar-hankook%3D181549&cjsku=N1688850-99Get the helmet here! https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-101439305-15066121?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eastwood.com%2Feastwood-large-view-auto-darkening-welding-helmet-l6700.html&cjsku=21483

Get ready for the Days of Pain and Victory Podcast - Episode 21!Join your hosts, Alex and Josh, along with special guest Tyler Bolland from Total Mayhem Racing, as they dive deep into the world of off-road racing, the "no-quit" attitude, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. This episode is packed with their signature blend of comedic banter, genuine struggles, and triumphant stories.In this episode, you'll hear:The "No-Quit" Mentality – Discover why perseverance trumps intelligence in the world of successful endeavors, especially when it comes to automotive projects.Tyler's Journey – Tyler shares his incredible story, from building oil rigs to his military service as a helicopter mechanic, and eventually chasing his ultimate dream: racing in the Baja 1000.The Baja 1000: Pain and Victory – Relive the gritty details of DPV's past Baja 1000 races in 2020 and 2021, including unexpected breakdowns, last-minute fixes, and the sheer dedication it takes to compete.Building a Dream on a Budget – Learn how Tyler transformed his vision into a Baja-ready race truck, meticulously designing and building it on a "paper mill maintenance worker's budget."Behind the Scenes of a Race Team – Get an inside look at the chaos and camaraderie of a small race team, highlighting the importance of a fully committed crew.Future Upgrades – Tyler details the extensive upgrades made to his truck for the upcoming race, including a new body, upgraded steering, 40-inch tires, a completely new engine, and a state-of-the-art cooling package.The Fantasy Build: Suburban Edition – Alex and Josh dream up a Baja 1000 build for a $500 1995 Chevy Suburban, with ideas ranging from an LS swap to a big block turbo.Don't miss out on the laughter, the lessons, and the raw passion that drives the "Days of Pain and Victory" crew!Follow Tyler here! https://www.instagram.com/totalmayhemracing/Join our mailing list for sneak peeks and more! http://eepurl.com/inlcEsMERCH!!! https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteGet some new grips at Priority Tire!!! https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-101439305-13402739?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.prioritytire.com%2Fby-brand%2Fhankook-tires%2Fdynapro-at2-xtreme%3Fvar-hankook%3D181549&cjsku=N1688850-99Get the helmet here! https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-101439305-15066121?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eastwood.com%2Feastwood-large-view-auto-darkening-welding-helmet-l6700.html&cjsku=21483

Join the DPV podcast crew—Allison, Emily, Jared, and Josh—as they recap their epic, three-day off-roading adventure on the legendary Rubicon Trail! They're sharing all the nitty-gritty details of their trip, from what they expected versus the reality, to the essential gear and vehicle mods that got them through it.They'll talk about the trail's relentless boulders, unexpected rainstorms, and the surprising challenges they faced, including a broken down vehicle and a pesky transmission leak. Find out how they improvised with a coffee pot to cook dinner, and how the kids handled being "feral" in the wilderness. It's a candid look at the highs and lows of tackling one of the most famous off-road trails in the world.In this episode:Anticipation vs. Reality: The crew discusses their expectations for the Rubicon Trail, the lack of reprieve from the boulders, and the surprising amount of hiking involved.Vehicle Prep: Get a rundown of the last-minute vehicle modifications and checks they made before hitting the trail, including swapping out leaf springs and checking fluids.Challenges on the Trail: Hear about the broken-down rigs they encountered, their own mechanical issues, and the physical toll the trail took on them.Camping & Family: Learn about their unique camping experience, from a propane regulator failure that led to cooking fajitas in a coffee pot to the joy of seeing their kids thrive without technology.Memorable Moments: They share their favorite moments, from the stunning views on the slabs to the emotional roller coaster of navigating "Gatekeeper" and other difficult obstacles.Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more off-roading content!Join our mailing list for sneak peeks and more! http://eepurl.com/inlcEsMERCH!!! https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteGet some new grips at Priority Tire!!! https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-101439305-13402739?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.prioritytire.com%2Fby-brand%2Fhankook-tires%2Fdynapro-at2-xtreme%3Fvar-hankook%3D181549&cjsku=N1688850-99Get the helmet here! https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-101439305-15066121?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eastwood.com%2Feastwood-large-view-auto-darkening-welding-helmet-l6700.html&cjsku=21483

Welcome to Episode 19 of the DPV Podcast! This week, Josh Hahn and Alex Barkley tackle a question that haunts every gearhead: is your project vehicle ever truly finished? We dive deep into why that "done" feeling is so elusive, and explore the rare exceptions where a build might actually be considered complete (hello, show cars!). Join us as we discuss the never-ending cycle of upgrades, the "what if" factor, and why our passion for wrenching often means the journey never really ends. We'll also be sharing updates from our shops, letting you know what we've been working on and what's coming next for our YouTube channels. Plus, the return of our popular Fantasy Build segment! Josh and Alex will each be given a random project car from the wild (thanks, Craigslist!) and a $10,000 budget to virtually build their dream machine. You won't want to miss our wildly different approaches! In this episode: The Obvious Answer: Why most project cars are never truly finished. The "Finished" Illusion: Are show cars and concours builds the exception? Why Projects Are Never Done: Technology evolution, wear & tear, changing tastes, and the addiction of the build process. Shop Talk: Updates on Josh's and Alex's current projects and upcoming video content. Fantasy Build Challenge: $10k budget, random project cars, and endless possibilities! Got a project you thought was "done" only to dive back in? Let us know in the comments below!Join our mailing list for sneak peeks and more! http://eepurl.com/inlcEsMERCH!!! https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteGet some new grips at Priority Tire!!! https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-101439305-13402739?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.prioritytire.com%2Fby-brand%2Fhankook-tires%2Fdynapro-at2-xtreme%3Fvar-hankook%3D181549&cjsku=N1688850-99Get the helmet here! https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-101439305-15066121?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eastwood.com%2Feastwood-large-view-auto-darkening-welding-helmet-l6700.html&cjsku=21483

Join our mailing list for sneak peeks and more! http://eepurl.com/inlcEsMERCH!!! https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteGet some new grips at Priority Tire!!! https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-101439305-13402739?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.prioritytire.com%2Fby-brand%2Fhankook-tires%2Fdynapro-at2-xtreme%3Fvar-hankook%3D181549&cjsku=N1688850-99Get the helmet here! https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-101439305-15066121?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eastwood.com%2Feastwood-large-view-auto-darkening-welding-helmet-l6700.html&cjsku=21483

Ever dreamed of rescuing a classic car from a field and bringing it back to life? This podcast episode dives into the exciting world of "revive and drives," where old vehicles get a second chance at life. What You'll Learn: The Allure of the Revive and Drive: Discover why people are drawn to these projects, from the emotional connection to the satisfaction of saving a piece of Americana. Vehicle Selection and Initial Assessment: Get practical advice on choosing the right vehicle (older is better!) and what to look for when assessing its condition. Troubleshooting and Preparation: Learn about common issues with fuel, cooling, and braking systems, plus essential tools and tips for a successful adventure. Join us as we share personal stories, offer troubleshooting advice, and emphasize the importance of preparation and enjoying the ride. Join our mailing list for sneak peeks and more! http://eepurl.com/inlcEs MERCH!!! https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.site Get some new grips at Priority Tire!!! https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-101439305-13402739?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.prioritytire.com%2Fby-brand%2Fhankook-tires%2Fdynapro-at2-xtreme%3Fvar-hankook%3D181549&cjsku=N1688850-99 Get the helmet here! https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-101439305-15066121?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eastwood.com%2Feastwood-large-view-auto-darkening-welding-helmet-l6700.html&cjsku=21483

Welcome to the DPV Podcast, Season 2 Episode 4!Josh is solo in Mexico, joined by returning guest Jared! They recap Jared's awesome Sand Hollow trip, including Matt's Off-Road Recovery Games, and dive into his 2019 Jeep Rubicon build.Hear about Jared's lift, tires, steering upgrades, and why he switched from a Razor to a Jeep. They discuss his Sand Hollow experience, pushing his Rubicon on dunes and rocks (and a surprising moment in 4 low!).Then, they look ahead to their July family adventure on the legendary Rubicon Trail! Josh details his roll cage build and engine swap prep, while Jared talks about his more stock Rubicon setup. They cover essential gear, tools, camping plans, and even the lifesaver GlueTread.Finally, they outline their 3-day Rubicon trip, aiming for Rubicon Springs and near Cadillac Hill for camping.Rubicon tips or 4 low insights? Share in the comments! Like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more DPV adventures!MERCH: https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteWebsite: https://daysofpainandvictory.comNewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/0415506aa070/get-exclusive-contentYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaysofPainandVictory

Welcome back to the DPV Podcast! Episode 15 is here, and we're cruising towards our goal of 21 episodes! In this episode, Josh and Alex dive deep into their incredible experience at King of the Hammers.🔥 King of the Hammers Recap:Hear all about the wild race, the insane terrain, and the sheer scale of the event.We discuss the Everyman Challenge, including the 4500 modified, 4600 stock, and 4800 legends classes.We cover the chaos at Chocolate Thunder and the technical challenges of Sledgehammer and Backdoor.We talk about the impressive feats of the drivers and co-drivers, and the incredible camaraderie among the teams.Learn about the growth of King of the Hammers, from its humble beginnings to the massive event it is today, with over 100,000 spectators.🚐 Alex's 1992 Chevy Van Project:Alex shares his latest project: a sweet 1992 G30 one-ton Chevy van!Hear about the van's unique features and the plans for a big road trip.Get a sneak peek of the upcoming video on the van's restoration.⚙️ Josh's Doubler Build:Josh gives an update on his 203/205 transfer case doubler build.Learn about the challenges of working with needle bearings and machining the case.Hear about the new shift rails from JB Fabrications.Join us as we recount our adventures at King of the Hammers and share our latest vehicle projects!👍 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more off-road adventures and project updates!Everyman Challenge: https://youtu.be/L7jBeiIolD8Chocolate Thunder: https://youtu.be/PKOVty3dpzkJeep CJ on Chocolate Thunder: https://youtu.be/TXjkK3Q9BgQMERCH: https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteWebsite: https://daysofpainandvictory.comNewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/0415506aa070/get-exclusive-contentYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaysofPainandVictory

Ever wish you had a car expert who could diagnose problems faster than Google? Well you've come to the right place. Meet the man, the myth, the legend, Ben Big Dog Barkley. This podcast episode dives deep into Ben's incredible automotive expertise, from lightning-fast diagnostics to tackling any mechanical challenge. We also catch up on the Josh and Alex's latest adventures, including a cross-country road trip in a rusty ride, the exciting purchase of a classic Chevy van with a BIG block V8, and updates on the "Big Chief" project. Plus, hear Ben's story – from his first driving experience at age 5 in a Jeep to his formal training and early racing days, discover how he honed his skills and became the automotive whiz he is today!MERCH: https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteWebsite: https://daysofpainandvictory.comNewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/0415506aa070/get-exclusive-contentYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaysofPainandVictory

Join us as we recap an insane 2024 and reveal our even BIGGER plans for 2025! This year saw us tackling some awesome projects, including: Vehicle Restorations: we brought some classics back to life! Off-Road Adventures: We hit the trails hard at events like the Hangover Run and an epic wheeling party. Anchorage Road Trip: An unforgettable journey to the far north! We're all about budget-friendly builds and building a strong community of automotive enthusiasts. But 2025 is going to be even WILDER! Get ready for: Shop Overhaul: Time to get organized for maximum project efficiency! Big Chief Jeep FINISH: We're finally completing this long-awaited build! $1500 Mystery Car to King of the Hammers?!: That's right, we're taking a CHEAP car on an EPIC cross-country trip! Bronco Restoration: Another classic gets the TLC it deserves. Rubicon Trail Expedition: Conquering one of the most iconic off-road trails in the world! Derby Car Build (Maybe?): We might even dive into the world of demolition derby! Plus, we're sharing our top 3 tips for crushing your own project goals: scheduling, research (without overthinking!), and organization. Get ready for another year of awesome builds, epic adventures, and valuable tips! Subscribe now and join the ride!MERCH: https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteWebsite: https://daysofpainandvictory.comNewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/0415506aa070/get-exclusive-contentYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaysofPainandVictory

In this episode, Josh and Alex recount their insane journey to and from SEMA 2024. From driving a revived 1977 Ford Ranchero 950 miles, to rubbing shoulders with industry giants, this trip was one for the books. Here's what you can expect: Podcast Milestone & SEMA First Impressions: We celebrate a podcast milestone and dive into the overwhelming experience that is SEMA, highlighting the incredible networking opportunities. The Ranchero's Road to Redemption (or Ruin): Buckle up for the tale of our 950-mile trek in a Ranchero that hadn't run in 10 years! Expect breakdowns, roadside repairs, and sheer determination. SEMA Days 1-3 - Starstruck & Networking: We share our first impressions of the show, including the Kick-off Breakfast with Jay Leno, finally meeting Liam from Jeep Sheep TV, and making valuable connections at dinners and parties. SEMA Highlights - Interviews & Cool Tech: We recap some of the coolest things we saw at SEMA, including interviews with Hollie Fowler about her Jeep Liberty built for the OnX Off-road Challenge and using a $46,000 Miller welder with Rob Bennett! Plus, a meeting with the team at Spring Tools. The Chaotic Return Trip - Accidents, Altruism & Arrests (Almost): The journey home was even more eventful than the trip there! Free wheel bearings, a minor fender bender with a Tesla, assisting at a real accident scene, getting pulled over, and a much-needed stop for breakfast burritos. Join us for the full story of our SEMA adventure – it's a rollercoaster you won't want to miss!MERCH: https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteWebsite: https://daysofpainandvictory.comNewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/0415506aa070/get-exclusive-contentYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaysofPainandVictory

In this episode, we talk with Liam Lafferty from @JeepSheepTV about being an automotive youtuber, developing aftermarket products, SEMA, and of course Jeeps. Liam also does work for @Gone_Gpn and @unofficialuseonly so be sure to check those channels out! Jeep Sheep TV @JeepSheepTV https://www.instagram.com/jeep.sheep/ https://www.facebook.com/JeepSheepTV Gone-GPN https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEitCP-U2VlJzjgFMfyJN7w https://www.facebook.com/gonegpn/ https://www.instagram.com/gone_gpn Unofficial Use Only https://unofficialuseonly.com/ @unofficialuseonly https://www.instagram.com/unofficialuseonly/

In this episode Josh talks with Jess Hahn from @jestersgarage1946 about building hot rods, putting on car shows, and driving across the country to rescue a couple derelict 53 Chevys.Jess's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jestersgarage1946MERCH: https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteWebsite: https://daysofpainandvictory.comNewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/0415506aa070/get-exclusive-contentYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaysofPainandVictory

In this episode, Josh and Alex discuss unconventional engine swaps, you know, the other guys engines. Something other than an LS swap, SBC, and the likeMERCH: https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteWebsite: https://daysofpainandvictory.comNewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/0415506aa070/get-exclusive-contentYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaysofPainandVictory

In this episode Alex and Josh discuss their worst stuck ever which happened on the Naches Wagon Trail. They also talk about what's been happening in the shop, current projects and of course the fantasy build.stuck video: https://youtu.be/Fa6IB2NAHz8?si=eDj7EZDL7YhNfSgyMERCH: https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteWebsite: https://daysofpainandvictory.comNewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/0415506aa070/get-exclusive-contentYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaysofPainandVictory

In this episode, Josh and Alex talk about their overland adventure on Coleman minibikes and go over some tips and tricks so you can do it tooMinibike episode! https://youtu.be/vab0__iDwbgMERCH: https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteWebsite: https://daysofpainandvictory.comNewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/0415506aa070/get-exclusive-contentYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaysofPainandVictory

In this episode Josh and Alex discuss how to incorporate car stuff on your family vacation! There are lots of ways to scratch that automotive itch!MERCH: https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteWebsite: https://daysofpainandvictory.comNewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/0415506aa070/get-exclusive-contentYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaysofPainandVictory

In this episode, Josh and Alex discuss what hand tools a guy needs to start wrenching on old cars Stanley tool set: https://amzn.to/3Vc3wdr MERCH: https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteWebsite: https://daysofpainandvictory.comNewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/0415506aa070/get-exclusive-contentYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaysofPainandVictory

In this episode, Alex and Josh discuss the importance of having a dedicated daily driver, what to look for in a daily, and take a look at the previous daily drivers they have hadMERCH: https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteWebsite: https://daysofpainandvictory.comNewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/0415506aa070/get-exclusive-contentYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaysofPainandVictory

In this episode Alex and Josh discuss what to look for in a first wheeling rig, the first modifications one should do on their wheeler, and the importance of building your rig at the same pace as you are gaining experience behind the wheelRanchero Revival: https://youtu.be/6KrDFeIyz7QMERCH: https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteWebsite: https://daysofpainandvictory.comNewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/0415506aa070/get-exclusive-contentYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaysofPainandVictory

Alex and Josh relive the most epic road trip of all time, driving a lifted 84 bronco 2500 miles on the ALCAN MERCH: https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteWebsite: https://daysofpainandvictory.comNewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/0415506aa070/get-exclusive-contentYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaysofPainandVictory

In this episode, Alex and Josh discuss the beginnings of their friendship, the creation of Days of Pain and Victory, and the purpose of this podcast. There's also a segment called fantasy builds, where we dream build a craigslist find on the fly!MERCH: https://days-of-pain-and-victory.company.siteWebsite: https://daysofpainandvictory.comNewsletter: https://mailchi.mp/0415506aa070/get-exclusive-contentYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaysofPainandVictory