Rusty Gold: How One Woman Revolutionized Car Auctions

Labor Day Replay:

A divine prophecy, a kitchen cupboard full of auction school applications, and a career-defining first sale scheduled right after 9/11 – these unlikely elements converged to launch Yvette Vanderbrink into the world of automotive auctioneering, where she's spent 25 years specializing in barn finds and collector vehicles that others often don't know how to handle.

Vanderbrink takes us behind the scenes of her recent Montana auction featuring 604 vehicles from three generations of collecting, explaining the logistical nightmares of conducting sales in remote locations with no cell service or electricity. With refreshing candor, she shares stories of overcoming sexism in the industry, including the memorable response to a man who suggested she "make a sandwich and let the boys do it" – she simply took away his bidder number.

The psychology of car collecting emerges as a fascinating thread, with Yvette noting vehicles are "easier to come home than they are to leave," explaining how modest collections transform into hoarding situations. The thrill of the hunt often supersedes practical restoration plans, leading to expansive collections awaiting "someday" projects – something she witnessed firsthand with her father's 228-car collection.

Don Armstrong provides a thorough review of the 2025 Kia Niro Hybrid, highlighting its impressive 53 mpg city fuel economy, attractive styling with Volvo-esque taillights, and competitive $26,990 starting price. The "small station wagon" (according to government classification) earns praise for its unique design elements, simple interior controls, and outstanding efficiency, positioning it as an ideal urban commuter vehicle.

Whether you're fascinated by barn finds with stories to tell, considering an efficient hybrid for your daily commute, or simply enjoy authentic car talk from passionate enthusiasts, this episode delivers entertainment and insights that will have you looking at both forgotten classics and modern hybrids in a new light.

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Tags: In Wheel Time, automotive car talk show, car talk, Live car talk show, In Wheel Time Car Talk

Chapters

• 0:00 Introduction to In Wheel Time
• 1:30 Meet Yvette Vanderbrink
• 4:45 Becoming a Female Auctioneer
• 9:15 Montana Auction Challenges
• 14:30 About Vanderbrink Auctions
• 18:35 Motor Minute: Corvette VIN Dispute
• 23:15 2025 Kia Niro Hybrid Review
• 29:30 Closing and Contact Information