5 Minutes with Brian Brennan of Modern Rodding and In the Garage Media
If you’ve read any street rodding magazine in the last few decades, you’ll quickly recognize the byline of Brian Brennan. Brian has been covering hot rodding news for decades and has seen the hobby flourish and evolve over the past 50-plus years. He was a co-founder of Street Rodder Magazine (along with Tom McMullen and Tex Smith), was a staffer for Popular Hot Rodding, Off-Road, and Rod Action, and has held numerous editorial titles over the years in the publishing world.
Today, Brian is the Content Director at In the Garage Media, which includes the magazines and websites for Modern Rodding, All Chevy Performance, and Classic Truck Performance. Brian has seen more hot rodding trends come, go, and return than he cares to admit, but his passion for the hobby is unwavering. Always on the go, we were lucky to corner Brian Brennan recently for an interview.
GG: What is the biggest difference in hot rodding today compared to 50 years ago?
Brian Brennan: Money, talent, raw materials, and tools (hand, power, and computer aided). That said, I’ve been around long enough to see a progression and as long as hot rodders keep evolving our hobby will be fine.
GG: You’ve seen many hot rod trends come and go. Are there any you wish would make a comeback?
Brennan: Yes, less technology and more of the simple “in the garage” approach. The hobby rests in the hands and toolboxes of home builds. I’m a fan of craftsmanship, well-detailed, and creative builds, but placing a piece of aluminum in a machine and letting it turn out the build isn’t my style of hot rodding.
GG: Who were your automotive journalism influences?
Brennan: LeRoi “Tex” Smith, Ray Brock, Dick Wells, Dean Batchlor, and a few others. Each was particularly talented, and their respective talents were obvious. I feel immensely fortunate to have known them and to have learned from them.
GG: What’s the best piece of advice you got early in your career?
Brennan: “Keep your mouth shut and listen. And don’t miss a deadline.”
GG: What advice do you have for an upcoming photographer or writer who wants to get started in the hot rod industry?
Brennan: While it might be tempting to focus solely on finding a lucrative career, it’s crucial to cultivate your passion for the craft. Look at the work of photographers and writers you admire – not to copy their style, but to understand the aesthetic elements that resonate with you. This can help you develop your own unique voice and perspective.
Next, immerse yourself in the community by connecting with builders and enthusiasts. Ask them about their processes and what motivates their work. Practice the art of listening. Building relationships and understanding the heart of the craft can open countless opportunities.
GG: You’ve served for years as a high school football referee. Are there lessons you picked up there that have carried over into your media work?
Brennan: Absolutely. As I embark on my 54th season as a high school football official, I’ve encountered many situations that have shaped my perspective. One of the most significant lessons is the importance of trust – particularly in the people around you.
During high-profile games, you quickly learn who you can rely on and who truly has your back. This translates into the media world in a big way, especially when it comes to collaboration and teamwork. In both arenas, you need to build a solid support system around you, as it helps you navigate challenges and enhances the overall experience.
GG: You’ve made a lot of road trips in hot rods through the years. Is there one that stands out the most?
Brennan: Absolutely, I’ve made countless memorable road trips in hot rods over the years, but a couple really stand out.
One unforgettable journey was with the late Jim Ewing of Super Bell fame back in 1980. We drove his stunning ’33 Ford lowboy coupe across country to the Nats South, and it turned into an epic adventure filled with great camaraderie and stories with lots of the locals.
Another remarkable trip was with the late Pete Chapouris, along with Jim “Jake” Jacobs both of Pete & Jake’s fame, Pete Eastwood (P-Wood), and Jim Ewing (another trip). Pete, Jake, and Jim were driving their own coupes back in the mid-70s and P-Wood and I tagged along. The tales that emerged from that trip are still talked about today—there was a bond that we shared through our passion for hot rods and hot rodding.
If I can add a third, I’ll mention a weekend cruise literally around the state of Arizona with Chapouris back in 2009. He invited me to take his freshly built ’32 Ford highboy roadster, which featured the first E-Rod V-8 and transmission swap. We stopped at local shops and hot rodders’ homes, gathering feedback on the new V-8 from Chevy Performance Parts. What made this trip truly special were the hours we spent sharing personal life stories while cruising down the road. Those memories, the insights we exchanged, and the friendship we cultivated will forever hold a special place in my heart.
GG: What’s your argument for the viability of print magazines in the so-called “digital world?”
Brennan: I believe there’s a profound connection between print and the digital landscape that keeps it relevant. Today, we enjoy the best of both worlds – modern cars and an appreciation for the nostalgia of classic modes of transportation. In the same way, print magazines still hold immense value. While digital platforms have all made their marks, I’m consistently reminded of how important print magazines remain for the average hot rodder; many still express a strong desire to see their cars and products featured in print. There’s an undeniable magic about holding a physical magazine, flipping through its pages, and savoring the experience that digital formats can’t quite replicate.
At In The Garage Media, we recognize that print must evolve to stay relevant, and I’m proud to say we’ve been doing just that with our titles. Print is thriving by adapting and embracing change, and I believe it still has a vital role to play in automotive storytelling, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.
GG: What’s the key to getting younger enthusiasts involved in the hobby?
Brennan: There isn’t just one key. It really comes down to having that innate love for hot rods, regardless of make, model, or build style. Often, you find this passion is nurtured within a “car” family. It might be a grandparent, parent, or sibling who instills that appreciation for hot rods and car culture.
When a youngin’ grows up surrounded by this love for hot rods, they inherently “get it.” They learn the value of dedication and hard work that goes into building and maintaining a hot rod. Engaging younger people requires community and connection, showing them just how fulfilling and enjoyable this hobby can be.
GG: What hot rods do you have in your garage these days?
Brian Brennan: I have a variety. There’s a ’28 Ford extended cab highboy pickup and a ’29 Ford highboy roadster, which has taken me on several cross-country adventures. I have a ’68 Corvette, which I keep mostly stock because it reminds me how a ’68 Chevy really drove! Also, there is my ’71 Corvette that boasts a Detroit Speed suspension and “too much horsepower.” For everyday coolness, I drive my ’72 Chevy Suburban with all the “cool” goodies added. And soon I’ll be hitting the road in a ’55 Chevy Gasser. It’s a fun assortment that keeps my passion for hot rods alive!
