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"Switch to Channel 2"
Join host Donny McGuire "GoForDonny! Switch to Channel 2," an exhilarating podcast that dives deep into the world of motorsports, entertainment, and personal journeys. In this riveting episode titled "Switch to Channel 2 with Tanner Foust" Donny welcomes the renowned racing driver and TV personality Tanner Foust to share his unique experiences and future aspirations.
Tanner opens up about his uncertainty with McLaren, contemplating future opportunities and reminiscing about the profound experiences he's had with the team, including driving a 1999 championship-winning Formula One car. He describes the thrill of tackling the car's immense power and downforce on historic tracks like Sonoma and collaborating with some of the biggest names in the industry.
Donny introduces a new Podcast, "Go for Donny,!" where the duo shares behind-the-scenes stories from their time on "Top Gear." Tanner recounts a particularly challenging episode involving beat-up $500 cars and some unpleasant surprises. The conversation takes a lighter turn as they discuss favorite episodes and memorable moments from the show, as well as Tanner's thoughts on its cancellation and the subsequent success of "Grand Tour."
The episode also delves into Tanner's passion for flying airplanes, advocating for general aviation, and his hands-on involvement in a new show about building airplanes. They explore how Tanner's mechanical expertise extends from cars to planes, and the sense of freedom he finds in flying.
Beyond his adventurous career, Tanner shares personal milestones, including his marriage, moves toward a sustainable lifestyle on his mini farm, and shifts to EV-driven racing projects with Optima Batteries and Clarios. He talks about his daughter's budding interest in go-karting and the values of competition and perseverance that they cherish as a family.
From his initial foray into motorsports to becoming a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, Tanner Foust's journey is filled with captivating stories and inspiring reflections that make this episode a must-listen for motorsport enthusiasts and general listeners alike. Tune in for an engaging and comprehensive discussion on the intersections of racing, flying, farming, and personal growth on this week's episode of "Switch to Channel 2"
"Switch to Channel 2"
Switch to Channel 2 Audio Podcast with Mike Duffy
Get ready for a deep dive into the unpredictable world of unscripted TV with this episode of Switch to Channel 2. Donny McGuire sits down with veteran producer and creator Mike Duffy (Ugly Brother Studios, Yum Crunch) to talk all things reality TV, YouTube's creator economy, and the art of reinventing yourself in a rapidly changing industry.
From hilarious behind-the-scenes stories of cult-favorite shows like *Mystery Diners,* to Emmy-winning food series with Emeril Lagasse, Mike shares insights on the highs, lows, and unexpected moments of his two-decade career in TV and digital storytelling. Hear how he and Donny navigated the TV production trenches together at places like MTV2, T Group, and Zodiac—and why the traditional TV playbook is out the window.
This candid conversation covers:
- How the reality TV industry pivoted and why authenticity matters more than ever (think *Duck Dynasty* and *The Apprentice*)
- The boom and crash of unscripted television, current trends in streaming, and why YouTube is now king for both young and older audiences
- The rise of branded content, direct-to-consumer media, and creator-driven channels (goodbye network gatekeepers, hello influencer partnerships!)
- Mike and Donny’s unconventional career starts (from stand-up comedy to driving trucks for *Kids Say the Darndest Things* and answering phones at MTV)
- The founding of Emmy-winning Ugly Brother Studios and food media innovation with Yum Crunch
- Essential advice for content creators and producers pivoting in today’s digital-first landscape
- Fun rapid-fire questions, industry wisdom, and hilarious war stories from Hollywood’s front lines
Whether you're a TV insider, aspiring creator, or fan of reality and food programming, this episode is packed with insider tips, career inspiration, and big laughs.
00:00 Launching Ugly Brother Studios
04:59 Reality TV: Scripted and Fake
07:52 "Duck Dynasty Fan Betrayal"
11:29 College Parties to Comedy Beginnings
13:09 Stage Time Barter for Comedy Success
18:56 Career Reinvention Challenges
19:27 Agree on Hard Work Ethic
24:47 Reality TV's Decline
26:09 Content Oversaturation Challenges Streaming Industry
32:18 "Creators: Future Food Media Stars"
34:00 Transforming Creators into TV Personalities
38:19 "Creators: Future of Media Companies"
40:57 Ugly Brother's Soulful Focus
44:21 "Success in YouTube Content Strategy"
48:57 Coffee Chaos and Celebrity Challenge
50:33 White House Memories: Japan's Visit
53:38 Building a Thriving Media Future
56:42 Donnie's Destinations
**Keywords:** reality TV, Mike Duffy, GoForDonny, media industry, YouTube, content creation, Duck Dynasty, Ugly Brother Studios, Yum Crunch, Donny McGuire, TV production, branded content, food media, influencer marketing, digital storytelling, streaming trends, podcast, Emmy, creator economy
Tune in, switch to channel 2, and get the real story behind the shows you love—and what the future holds for entertainment pros and digital creators alike!
Don't forget to check out my website www.gofordonny.com for some cool GFD Swag and some fun videos and photos.
And Remember...#HTFU