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PODCAST: Performance art & automotive philanthropy with Matt Hagan of ACV Capital

In a recent episode of the Auto Remarketing Podcast, host Cherokee Media Group engaged in a compelling conversation with Matt Hagan, the managing partner of ACV Capital, to explore the intricate intersections of performance art, automotive industry dynamics, and philanthropy. Hagan, a prominent figure in both the automotive and drag racing worlds, shared his unique perspective on how his dual roles as a professional NHRA Funny Car driver and a business leader inform his approach to community impact and industry innovation. This discussion provided a deep dive into how personal passions can fuel professional endeavors and create meaningful change, particularly within the automotive sector.

Matt Hagan’s journey in the automotive world is deeply rooted in his background as a third-generation farmer from Virginia. Growing up on a cattle farm, Hagan developed a strong work ethic and a hands-on approach to problem-solving, which later translated into his racing career. His entry into drag racing was somewhat serendipitous, sparked by a passion for speed and mechanics that eventually led him to compete at the highest levels of the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). As a Funny Car driver, Hagan has achieved significant success, including multiple world championships, which have not only cemented his status as a top-tier athlete but also provided a platform to influence the automotive industry. His racing career, often described as performance art due to the sheer spectacle of 11,000-horsepower vehicles accelerating to over 330 miles per hour in mere seconds, serves as a metaphor for the precision and intensity required in business leadership.

Hagan’s role as managing partner at ACV Capital, a division of ACV Auctions, allows him to bridge his racing persona with his business acumen. ACV Capital focuses on providing financial solutions and inventory financing for automotive dealerships, a critical component of the industry that often faces challenges in managing cash flow and acquiring inventory. Hagan explained that his involvement with ACV Capital is driven by a desire to support dealers in navigating the complexities of the used car market, especially in an era where digital transformation is reshaping how vehicles are bought and sold. His firsthand experience as a racer gives him a unique perspective on the value of vehicles, not just as commodities but as symbols of performance and craftsmanship, which informs the way ACV Capital approaches partnerships with dealerships. By leveraging technology and data-driven insights, Hagan and his team aim to empower dealers to make informed decisions, ultimately fostering a more efficient and transparent marketplace.

A significant portion of the podcast discussion centered on Hagan’s commitment to philanthropy, which he views as an extension of his personal and professional ethos. He emphasized that success in racing and business comes with a responsibility to give back to the community, a principle instilled in him through his rural upbringing. One of the key initiatives Hagan is involved with is his support for agricultural education and youth development programs. Recognizing the parallels between farming and racing—both requiring resilience, adaptability, and a deep connection to the land—Hagan has worked to provide resources and opportunities for young people interested in agriculture. He believes that fostering the next generation of farmers is crucial for food security and rural community sustainability, and he uses his platform as a racer to raise awareness and funds for these causes.

Additionally, Hagan’s philanthropy extends to supporting veterans and military families, a cause close to his heart given the sacrifices made by service members. Through partnerships with organizations that provide assistance to veterans transitioning to civilian life, Hagan has helped fund programs that offer job training, mental health support, and community integration. He shared a poignant story about meeting a veteran at a race event who credited such programs with helping him rebuild his life after returning from deployment. These personal interactions, Hagan noted, reinforce his belief that philanthropy is not just about writing checks but about creating tangible, lasting impact in people’s lives. His involvement in these initiatives often ties back to the automotive world, as he hosts charity events at racetracks and collaborates with industry partners to amplify his efforts.

The conversation also touched on the evolving landscape of the automotive industry, particularly the role of electric vehicles (EVs) and sustainability. As a drag racer accustomed to the roar of nitro-fueled engines, Hagan admitted to having a complex relationship with the shift toward electrification. While he appreciates the innovation and environmental benefits of EVs, he remains deeply attached to the visceral experience of traditional combustion engines, which he sees as an integral part of racing culture. However, he acknowledged that the industry must adapt to changing consumer preferences and regulatory pressures, and he expressed optimism about the potential for electric drag racing to carve out its own niche. Hagan’s perspective reflects a broader tension within the automotive sector, where tradition and innovation often collide, yet he believes that both can coexist if approached with an open mind.

Hagan also discussed the importance of mentorship and leadership in both racing and business. He credited much of his success to the guidance of veteran racers and business leaders who helped him navigate the challenges of balancing a high-octane career with strategic decision-making. In turn, he strives to mentor young drivers and entrepreneurs, encouraging them to pursue their passions while maintaining a grounded perspective. For Hagan, leadership is about building trust and fostering collaboration, whether he’s working with his pit crew to shave milliseconds off a run or partnering with dealerships to solve inventory challenges. His ability to draw parallels between the high-stakes world of drag racing and the competitive nature of the automotive market underscores his holistic approach to success.

Another key theme of the podcast was the concept of performance art as it applies to both racing and philanthropy. Hagan described drag racing as a form of theater, where every run is a carefully choreographed performance that captivates audiences and pushes the boundaries of human and mechanical capability. Similarly, he views philanthropy as a performance of sorts—an opportunity to showcase values like compassion and responsibility on a public stage. By aligning his charitable efforts with his racing persona, Hagan has been able to amplify his impact, turning race days into platforms for advocacy and fundraising. This synergy between performance and purpose, he argued, is what allows individuals in high-profile industries like automotive and sports to drive meaningful change.

Throughout the discussion, Hagan’s authenticity and passion shone through, painting a picture of a man who is as dedicated to his community as he is to his craft. His story serves as a reminder that the automotive industry is not just about vehicles or transactions but about the people and relationships that power it. From the racetrack to the boardroom, Hagan embodies a multifaceted approach to success, blending adrenaline-fueled competition with a deep-seated commitment to making a difference. His work with ACV Capital demonstrates how innovation can address longstanding challenges in the dealership space, while his philanthropy highlights the potential for personal influence to create broader societal good.

In reflecting on his dual roles, Hagan emphasized the importance of staying true to one’s roots while embracing growth and change. His journey from a farm in Virginia to the winner’s circle of NHRA racing and the leadership ranks of ACV Capital is a testament to the power of perseverance and adaptability. For listeners of the Auto Remarketing Podcast, Hagan’s insights offered a compelling look at how the worlds of performance art, automotive business, and philanthropy can intersect to create a legacy that extends far beyond the finish line. His story is one of speed, strategy, and service—a narrative that continues to inspire those within and beyond the automotive industry to pursue their passions with purpose and impact.

Read the Full Auto Remarketing Article at:
[ https://www.autoremarketing.com/ar/retail/podcast-performance-art-automotive-philanthropy-with-matt-hagan-of-acv-capital/ ]