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Podholic: Gearshift giggles and oversteering opinions

Overcrest is a ride into high-gear hilarity.

TOUTING itself as “a pretty good podcast,” speaks to a certain level of confidence.

So is the Overcrest show such a standout? 

Delivery of automotive news, obscure history, and insightful dives into transportation culture is certainly underpinned by professionalism. 

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/overcrest/episodes/Porsches-Fear-is-On-Display

Hosted by Kris Clewell, an American automotive photographer with a keen eye for the essence of car culture, and Jake Solberg, a car enthusiast with a penchant for the eccentricities of all things automotive, "Overcrest" is a fortnightly affair that appears (on the surface at least) both enlightening and entertaining.

Subject matter ranges from the delightfully obscure to the profoundly familiar, enriching listeners with fascinating detail and professional analysis. Despite occasional disagreement in viewpoints—mainly Kris’s, which tends towards polarisation—the hosts’ arguments are always founded on solid reasoning, commanding respect for their substance over style.

The pod thrives on candid conversations about the latest trends in automotive design and performance, from critiquing the "blobby" new Porsche Macan to applauding the impressive Nürburgring lap record acquired by the latest Taycan. Even when speculation veers dubious facts, their willingness to explore tangents adds depth that's rare in today's often monochromatic media landscape.

One of the more memorable episodes humorously dives into Clarkson, Hammond, and May’s departure from “The Grand Tour,” attributing it to the inevitable toll of aging on our television heroes. This light-hearted analysis provides a fresh take on celebrity culture within the automotive world and underscores the transient nature of fame and fortune.

The show’s YouTube presence aids audience engagement. Despite suffering from zoom-like recording formats and less-than-ideal camera placements, the overall quality of audio content doesn't detract. 

Sponsor messages are integrated without compromising the listening experience, maintaining a seamless flow of conversation even when transitioning into advertisements. However, moments when the hosts talk over each other can frustrate listeners and mar the podcast's clarity.

Overall, “Overcrest” offers a rich tapestry of automotive antics, blending humour, historical curiosity, and a deep understanding of the technological and cultural shifts shaping the world of cars. Despite its minor pitfalls, the podcast is worth subscriptions to YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other good platforms.

The Overcrest: A Pretty Good Podcast Homepage: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/overcrest/