Introduction
In this episode of The Customized Ride, Chris and Sandy sit down with Paul Stender, a true legend in the world of jet-powered vehicles. Known worldwide as the “Jet Car Guy,” Paul has built some of the craziest machines imaginable — from a jet-powered outhouse to a school bus with an F4 Phantom engine. This episode dives into his incredible career, thrilling stories, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
Early Life and Racing Roots
Paul grew up in a racing family in Wisconsin, surrounded by the thrill of speed and motorsports. He began racing midget and sprint cars at a young age but realized the danger after a series of serious crashes. Seeking a safer yet equally exhilarating path, he discovered jet-powered vehicles in the mid-1990s, a discovery that would change his life forever.
Highlights from the Episode
During the interview, Paul opens up about:
- His most famous creations — including the jet outhouse that gained international attention and the 45,000-horsepower jet school bus capable of 360 mph.
- How he got started — growing up in a racing family, surviving dangerous crashes in midget and sprint cars, and discovering jet vehicles in the mid-1990s.
- The grind behind the glory — long cross-country trips, preparing vehicles for shows, and the hard work that goes into making every appearance spectacular.
- Wildest moments and close calls — racing a jet pickup against an airplane, exploding hoods, tire blowouts, and other extreme incidents that keep him on edge.
- Teamwork and collaboration — the unsung heroes who help with fabrication, welding, and logistics, proving that even a daredevil needs a solid crew.
- Paul’s advice — the importance of following your passion, embracing risk wisely, learning hands-on skills, and inspiring the next generation of builders.
The episode also features fun personal insights, like Paul’s favorite cars, the projects he’s currently working on, and his dream of staying in the jet car world as long as possible.
Lessons from Paul Stender
- Follow Your Passion: Paul’s career proves that combining skill with curiosity and courage can create something truly unique.
- Embrace the Grind: The adrenaline of jet cars comes with meticulous preparation, long travel schedules, and constant innovation.
- Teamwork is Essential: Behind every jet-powered vehicle is a network of crew members and collaborators making the vision possible.
- Calculated Risk: Paul thrives on danger, but he respects it, preparing thoroughly to make high-risk stunts safe (as safe as 45,000 horsepower can be!).
- Inspire Others: Beyond the machines, Paul enjoys showing kids and fans how to build, weld, and follow their own passions.
Paul’s Incredible Creations
Some of the jaw-dropping vehicles Paul has built include:
- Jet-Powered Outhouse: Perhaps his most famous and viral creation.
- Jet School Bus: Powered by an F4 Phantom engine, one of the most extreme vehicles ever built.
- Jet Pickup Trucks, Jet ATVs, and Jet Smart Cars: Each custom-built around a jet engine, often from scratch.
- Jet Motorcycle: Reached speeds over 240 mph in a tiny, exposed frame.
In the episode, Paul shares not only the engineering behind these builds but also the stories and mishaps that made them legendary.
Final Thoughts
Paul Stender’s story is a thrilling mix of courage, creativity, and adrenaline. This episode of The Customized Ride offers fans an inside look at his life, career, and lessons for anyone chasing a dream — whether in motorsports or beyond. As Paul puts it: “If you’ve got a dream, follow it — and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty.”
The Customized Ride covers car shows, car meets, car events etc..