#1443 - Jonathan Ward
NaN minutesEpisode #1443
Jonathan Ward is the owner of ICON and a designer and creator of coach-built premium automobiles.
Episodes with Jonathan Ward
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Episode Timestamps
Jonathan Talking About Leathercraft and Travels for Art Forms
- Jonathan discusses his passion for craftsmanship and how it led him to leathercraft, automotive design, and deep dive travels into different art forms.
- He talks about visiting tanneries, studying from masters in the US, Morocco, and Mexico, focusing on local cultures, and immersing himself in different art forms.
- Jonathan shares his experience of building cars, changing roles at work, and setting up a leather studio at home to maintain a tactile craft connection.
Unique Car Designs and Client Stories by Jonathan
- Jonathan explains his innovative approach to building cars with a focus on preserving original design language from specific eras.
- He mentions working on derelicts, reformer one-offs, and production models while pulling back on redesigning for longevity.
- Jonathan shares interesting client stories, like customizing an undercover car for high-speed travel and the challenges faced during builds.
Vintage Car Exploration and Fascination
- Discussions about vintage cars and their unique designs
- Exploration of a rare car model with historical military significance
- Desire to modify vintage cars with modern features and high-performance components
Automotive Design Evolution and Recreations
- Discussion on classic car models and personal preferences based on eras
- Interest in redesigning classic cars with a more European flair
- Examples of companies recreating classic cars with modern engineering for improved performance
Derelict Car Builds: Celebrating Original Design Characters
- Revisiting classic transportation design in a modern context through derelict car builds
- Compounded by patina for a more personal story and history behind the finishes
- Challenges traditional restoration by maintaining original character and creating a romantic mystery
Iconic Redesign Projects and Market Challenges
- Discussing the challenge of copycat companies in the classic car redesign industry
- Importance of passion and expertise in creating unique designs
- Addressing market dynamics, consumer expectations, and aftermarket quality
Custom Car Projects and Iconic Mechanic Connections
- Discussion about custom car projects with unique features like the blazer and Bronco
- Emphasis on the mechanical feel and connection to old school vs. modern cars
- Exploration of the diverse projects and mechanical engineering integrated in vehicles
Classic Cars and Visceral Driving Experience
- Comparison between modern cars like Tesla and classic models like e46 m3 and 993 twin turbo
- Appreciation for the manual transmission and visceral connection in driving experience
- Reflection on the unique design and purpose-driven engineering in classic vehicles
Discussing Artisan Craftsmanship and Electric Cars
- Talks about the appreciation for craftsmanship and artisanal work in a digital world
- Describes the emotional connection and artistry in driving a truck versus a Tesla
- Mentions specific Tesla model and issues faced with noise and design
Design Concept Helios and Conversations with Elon Musk
- Introduces a design concept called Helios with a historical twist on car design
- Details a letter from Elon Musk's engineering team regarding support for the design
- Shares interactions with Elon Musk and Tesla engineer regarding design challenges
Discussion on Tesla Chargers and Future Battery Swaps
- Modified Tesla charger for private installation discussed
- Challenges of public Tesla chargers and handshake protocols explained
- Importance of anticipating future EV technology and battery swaps highlighted
Innovative Energy Technologies: Bloom Boxes, Toroidial Engines, and Air-charged Cars
- Memory of Bloom Boxes and their potential energy creation process shared
- Story of toroidial engine development and its application in vehicles described
- Discussion on retrofit system using electrical deceleration energy for vehicle propulsion
Henry Ford and the Transportation Sector Pioneers
- Henry Ford filed a patent for a horseless carriage, challenging the transportation sector pioneers like the Dodge brothers.
- Ford Motor Company faced court battles to refuse paying royalties, hindering innovation for a decade.
- Innovation in transportation shifted with the integration of the magneto starter in Ford cars, moving away from electric cars.
Material Innovation in Automobiles
- Prototypes like the stainless body Ford car and plexiglass Buick sedan introduced material innovation during wartime.
- Ideas such as hemp fiber cars and bio-derivative plastics open possibilities for eco-friendly vehicle bodies.
- Lotus experimented with hemp fiber cars, showcasing the potential of alternative materials in the automotive industry.
Business Challenges in California
- Absurd labor laws in California restrict immediate firing of employees caught in misconduct
- Excessive costs and regulations impacting business operations
- Struggle with zoning issues and new inspector's obstacles
Financial Constraints and Employee Retention
- Financial burden from additional costs like insurance affecting employee wages
- Difficulty in retaining skilled workers due to economic challenges
- Reflection on business obstacles amidst personal struggles like dealing with cancer
Deliberation on Homeless Prison and Legal Consequences
- Proposal for a system where homeless people contribute to society and are then brought back home.
- Discussion on how homeless people would receive food through air drops and bison hunting.
- Example of legal consequences for defending property, with a story about an NFL player getting sued for apprehending a car thief.
Accountability and Homeless Encampments in Cities
- Reflection on lack of accountability in society and its impact on democrats and progressive policies.
- Critique of enabling people through lack of consequences, illustrated by comparing littering fines to homeless tent encampments.
- Personal stance on restoration of personal accountability and consequences for actions, with focus on enabling individuals to improve their lives.
Health and Immune System Importance Amid Coronavirus Concerns
- Emphasizes the significance of health and immune system during the coronavirus pandemic
- Underlines the vital role of a healthy diet and regular exercise in strengthening the body
- Warns about the risks of a compromised immune system due to factors like tobacco use and poor lifestyle choices
Community Unity and Global Challenges Amid Pandemic Crisis
- Calls for global unification and cohesion in facing shared challenges
- Highlights the fragility of societal systems and the need for greater consideration for one another
- Reflects on the impact of external challenges in bringing people together and providing a wake-up call
San Francisco Lockdown and Business Challenges
- San Francisco imposed a three-week mandatory lockdown due to the pandemic, impacting businesses
- Concerns about the economic impact on business and income loss during the lockdown
- Discussion about the high costs and craftsmanship involved in building handmade cars like the Icon Bronco
Passion for Podcasting and Pursuing Dreams
- Reflecting on the journey of podcasting and genuine conversations with interesting guests
- Emphasis on following passions in life and pursuing what brings genuine enthusiasm
- Encouraging people to take risks, leave unfulfilling situations, and prioritize personal fulfillment
Passion Leading to Success: Starting from Scratch and Achieving Remarkable Results
- Starting a business from scratch may seem easy in retrospect, but it involves significant complexity and hard work
- Building success through passion and dedication without relying on focus groups or analysis
- Reflecting on growth and accomplishments after continuous work and effort
Regulatory Challenges in California's Automotive Industry: Impact of Air Quality Control Mandates
- Increased regulations in California's automotive sector due to disputes with the Trump administration over air quality control mandates
- Struggles within the aftermarket automotive industry due to new regulatory models affecting various stakeholders
- Dealing with challenges posed by emission compliance regulations despite creating vehicles with reduced emissions