Breaking Stereotypes In Racing: Aubree Walker’s Incredible Journey Women's Motorsports Network podcast

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Send us a text 🚗✨ New Podcast Episode Alert! ✨🚗 Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Kristin Shaw , an automotive journalist and trailblazer in the world of motorsports! 🌟 From her early love for classic cars to competing in the challenging Rebel Rally at the age of 50, Kristin shares her incredible experiences and insights on writing, community, and the power of following your passion. 🎙️ Tune in to hear her stories about connecting with industry leaders, embracing your unique voice, and the importance of supporting women in motorsports. Let’s celebrate the amazing women shaping the motorsports world, one story at a time! 💪💖 #WomensMotorsportsNetwork #KristinShaw #WomenInMotorsports #AutomotiveJournalism #RebelRally #Inspiration #Podcast Support the show…

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Little Moments, Big Memories: Misty Wagner’s Photography in Racing 26:57

2 days ago26:57

26:57

Send us a text 🌟 Join us on the latest episode of the Women’s Motorsports Network Podcast! 🚗💨 This week, we’re thrilled to feature Misty Wagner , a passionate racing photographer and advocate for women in motorsports. Hear her inspiring journey from capturing thrilling moments at the track to empowering female racers. 📸✨ Misty shares her experiences, the importance of professional photography in preserving memories, and the growing community of women in racing. Whether you’re a fan, a racer, or just curious about the sport, this episode is for you! 👉 Tune in now and celebrate the incredible women shaping the world of motorsports! #WomensMotorsportsNetwork #MistyWagner #WomenInRacing #MotorsportsPhotography #Empowerment Support the show…

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Breaking Stereotypes in Racing: Aubree Walker’s Incredible Journey 40:07

3 days ago40:07

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Send us a text In this episode of the Women’s Motorsports Network Podcast , host Melinda Russell sits down with Aubree Walker , a 16-year-old aspiring race car driver from Anderson, Indiana. Aubree shares her journey into motorsports, her experiences in the NXG Youth Motorsports program , and her dreams of racing in the Indy 500 . Early Passion for Racing Aubree’s interest in racing began in elementary school when she learned about the Indy 500 . She told her parents she wanted to be a race car driver, and they encouraged her to explore her passion. At 14, she attended her first Indy 500 , where she discovered the NXG program , a karting and motorsports academy focused on youth development. NXG Motorsports Program Aubree has been involved with NXG for four years, learning not just racing fundamentals but also valuable life skills such as discipline, teamwork, and public speaking. She completed all five of their academy classes and competed in the Grand Prix team , where she raced for points alongside her peers. Overcoming Challenges Being a female and a minority in motorsports, Aubree faced skepticism and discouragement from others. However, she used negativity as motivation to push forward and prove doubters wrong. She emphasizes the importance of representation and hopes to inspire more girls to enter the sport. Future Goals & Next Steps Having aged out of the NXG Grand Prix team, Aubree is now looking to transition into formula cars and hopes to join the Skip Barber Racing School . She also plans to attend Purdue University Indianapolis for motorsports engineering while serving in the Navy ROTC program , ensuring she has a strong career foundation. Scholarships & Recognition Aubree was one of two recipients of a De La Peña Foundation Scholarship , which has provided her with additional support and mentorship in motorsports. Final Message Aubree encourages young women to never give up on their dreams , regardless of obstacles or discrimination. She advises using negativity as fuel to push forward and achieve success. This episode highlights Aubree’s resilience, passion, and determination to make her mark in motorsports. Be sure to follow her journey on social media at Breezy Racing and stay connected with the Women’s Motorsports Network Podcast for more inspiring stories. 🚗💨 Support the show…

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Why More Women Should Try Drag Racing – Insights from Robin Ridgway 36:22

4 days ago36:22

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Send us a text In this episode of the Women's Motorsports Network Podcast , host Melinda Russell interviews Robin Ridgway , an engineer and drag racer from Lafayette, Indiana. Robin shares her journey into motorsports, which began with a deep-rooted love for mechanics instilled by her mother, an automotive technician. She started drag racing about 12 years ago , inspired after attending a National Hot Rod Diesel Association (NHRDA) event where she realized that everyday pickup trucks, like her own, could compete. Robin races her black 2001 F-350 diesel truck , a vehicle she also uses for daily driving and farm work. She competes in bracket racing , traveling across the country while also participating in her local Bunker Hill Drag Strip 's point series. Despite being in a male-dominated sport, she has found a welcoming and supportive community. She credits mentors like Sean Morgan and her local Ford dealership for their guidance in improving her racing skills and maintaining her truck. Racing has also strengthened her relationship with her late father , who traveled with her to various competitions, sharing in the excitement of the sport. Robin encourages more women to get involved in motorsports, emphasizing that racing can start with the car you already own. Her advice to newcomers is to just try it , surround themselves with supportive people, and enjoy the experience. The podcast concludes with a reminder that every woman in motorsports has a story worth celebrating, whether they are racers, crew members, or fans. Support the show…

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LeeAnne Young – A Trailblazer in Speedway Racing 38:53

6 days ago38:53

38:53

Send us a text LeeAnne Young – A Trailblazer in Speedway Racing Host: Melinda Russell Guest: LeeAnne Young About LeeAnne Young A veteran racer from Victoria, Australia, with over 30 years of experience in Speedway racing. Lives in a small country town with her husband, three adult children, seven grandchildren, and a great-grandson . Manages Gooses Autos , a family-owned mechanical business operating for over 30 years . Competes in Speedway and tarmac racing, holding five state titles and currently defending her Vic 1 title . How She Started in Motorsports Early experiences driving as a child while sitting on her father's lap. Former competitive ballroom dancer with a background in state championships. Overcame a fear of dirt roads after surviving a fatal car accident in her early 20s. Joined bumper cars at Druin Speedway and later transitioned to Crash and Bash racing . Challenges Women Face in Motorsports Lack of technical knowledge about cars. Limited female participation in track events like the Ultimate Street Car Challenge , where she was one of only three women among 82 competitors . Difficulty securing sponsorships beyond personal business funding. Her Approach to Racing and Mindset Believes age and gender should never be barriers in motorsports. Attributes success to dedication, hard work, and a strong mindset . Uses visualization techniques , race coaching, and strategic preparation for races. Enjoys mentoring other women and encourages them to pursue racing despite obstacles. Success and Legacy in Motorsports Views success as more than just winning races ; it's about perseverance, confidence, and inspiring others. Wants to leave a legacy that proves racing is for all ages and that women can excel in male-dominated sports . Recently transitioned into tarmac racing , showing it's never too late to try something new. Life Beyond Racing Enjoys gardening, traveling , and spending time with family. Uses social media to engage with fans and promote racing events through the Gooses Autos and Crash N Dash Drivers Association pages. Recently traveled Route 66 and attended the Illinois State Fair Speedway Race , admiring the patriotic culture in U.S. motorsports. Final Advice to Women Interested in Racing Start now , no matter your age or experience level. Connect with local racing clubs and find mentors . Set small, achievable goals and work towards them. Keep racing fun and embrace challenges as part of the journey. This episode highlights LeeAnne Young’s inspiring journey in motorsports, proving that passion, persistence, and a fearless mindset can break barriers for women in racing. Support the show…

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Audrey Gerberding on Racing, Resilience, and Her Future in Motorsports 45:37

8 days ago45:37

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Send us a text In this episode of the Women's Motorsports Network Podcast , host Melinda Russell welcomes Audrey Gerberding , a young and passionate racer with a lifelong dedication to motorsports. Having first met Audrey as a young girl at PRI in 2018, Melinda reflects on how Audrey has grown into an accomplished racer and aspiring industry professional. Now 19 years old , Audrey is pursuing a degree in automotive and high-performance technology at the University of Northwestern Ohio while balancing school, racing, and career ambitions. She shares her journey into racing , beginning with her early exposure to go-karts through her father’s involvement in motorsports. From quarter midgets to outlaw karts and eventually UMP Modified racing , Audrey has progressed through various divisions, gaining valuable experience along the way. Throughout the conversation, Audrey highlights key milestones in her career, including making a lap at Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) , racing alongside legends like Kenny Wallace and Kenny Schrader , and her transition to working on her own race car. She reflects on the challenges of racing, dealing with setbacks, and the valuable life lessons she’s learned about perseverance and adaptability. As she looks to the future, Audrey aspires to a career in motorsports , with dreams of becoming a crew chief or taking on a leadership role in a race team. She is actively seeking opportunities, including applying for a position as a student race director for a regional open-wheel series and pursuing involvement with her school’s race team. Additionally, Audrey discusses her involvement with the Jessie Combs Foundation , where she received a scholarship supporting women in automotive and fabrication careers. She also emphasizes the importance of volunteering and networking to advance in the industry, sharing her experiences at PRI and the Women with Drive Summit . The episode concludes with a discussion about social media’s role in motorsports and how Audrey is working on improving her digital presence to connect with fans and sponsors. Final Thoughts: Melinda celebrates Audrey’s passion, hard work, and determination, encouraging her to continue pursuing her goals in the motorsports world. Audrey’s journey serves as an inspiration for young women looking to break into the industry, proving that with dedication and persistence, anything is possible. Tune in for more inspiring stories of women in motorsports in upcoming episodes of the Women's Motorsports Network Podcast . 🚗💨 Support the show…

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Laura Ely’s Advice for Aspiring Racers: Start Your Motorsports Journey Today 28:57

9 days ago28:57

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Send us a text Laura Ely, a dedicated racing enthusiast, shared her journey into motorsports, which began later in life. Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, she now resides in the San Francisco Bay Area. Growing up with a father who owned a Buick dealership and being a fan of the Unsers, she always had an interest in cars. However, it wasn’t until she was introduced to track days by a colleague that she realized she could participate in racing herself. With a background in business, including running a successful software company, Laura was able to invest in her passion. She started with high-performance driving events and quickly transitioned into club racing. Currently, she competes in the Porsche Sprint Challenge North America, racing in the Masters class. Beyond the thrill of competition, Laura finds motorsports to be a strong social and community-driven activity. She has built a small team, sharing a garage and resources with other drivers to make racing more financially sustainable. She also actively supports women in racing, mentoring and coaching new drivers, and participating in outreach events to inspire young women to enter the sport. One of Laura’s proudest moments was standing on the podium at the Miami F1 race in 2023 after finishing third in her races, experiencing the full professional racing treatment. She acknowledges that motorsports can be costly, and while she hopes to continue racing, she is also aware of the financial considerations that may lead her to transition into other roles in the sport. Laura emphasizes that racing is a viable sport for women, as the car doesn’t recognize gender. With increasing female participation, she hopes to see continued growth in opportunities for women in motorsports. She remains engaged in the community, whether actively competing, mentoring, or simply supporting fellow racers. She encourages anyone interested in racing to start with high-performance driving events, which provide structured coaching and a safe way to experience track driving. Laura is active on social media under Black Sheep Racing Team, where she continues to share her racing journey and inspire others. Support the show…

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Go-Kart Champion Chloe Kuroski on Racing, Resilience, and Success 31:38

10 days ago31:38

31:38

Send us a text In this episode of the Women's Motorsports Network podcast, host Melinda Russell interviews 17-year-old Chloe Kuroski, a go-kart racer from Memphis High School. Chloe shares her journey into motorsports, which began with riding four-wheelers, go-karts, and snowmobiles before officially starting to race in 2021. Inspired by her uncle, Dave, she quickly excelled, earning six wins in 2024 and moving up to the adult class, where she competes with experienced racers, including her uncle and the track owner. Chloe discusses the challenges of transitioning to a faster go-kart, dealing with mechanical issues, and racing against seasoned drivers. She highlights the supportive atmosphere at Arthur Raceway, where she feels part of a close-knit racing family. She also shares her approach to securing sponsorships, balancing racing with school, and the emotions she experiences on and off the track. Throughout the conversation, Chloe reflects on how racing has helped her gain confidence, mature, and overcome challenges. She also talks about her race day routine, how she analyzes race footage to improve, and her aspirations in the sport. The episode wraps up with Melinda encouraging Chloe to share updates on social media to increase her exposure and continue inspiring others in motorsports. This episode celebrates Chloe’s achievements and underscores the importance of perseverance, community, and passion in racing. Support the show…

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Audree Blankenship Racing: How Family and Determination Drive Her Success 34:08

25 days ago34:08

34:08

Send us a text In this episode of the Women's Motorsports Network Podcast , host Melinda Russell interviews Audree Blankenship , a driven 15-year-old racer from LaGrange, Indiana. Audree, a sophomore at Lakeland Junior Senior High School, shares how her family’s racing legacy sparked her passion. Inspired by her grandfather and father, she began her journey in karting and now competes in the Sport Compact and Outlaw Front Wheel Drive divisions. Audree opens up about the challenges of earning respect as a young female driver and the importance of consistency on the track . Despite her age, she’s proven her talent with a top-10 finish at the Michigan Cup, racing against seasoned drivers. Building her new race car alongside her dad has been a valuable bonding experience and a chance to learn the mechanics of her vehicle. While NASCAR is a dream, Audree remains grounded with a focus on becoming a respected local driver. She takes pride in inspiring young fans, especially girls, proving that with confidence and hard work, anything is possible. As she prepares for the upcoming season, traveling with the National Compact Touring Series is on her radar, and she’s excited about new tracks and experiences. Audree's story is one of family support, determination, and breaking barriers in motorsports. Her journey encourages young racers to set realistic goals, believe in themselves, and never let doubt hold them back. 👉 Stay connected : Follow her journey on Facebook at Audree Blankenship Racing . Support the show…

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From Cashier to Leader: Eva Gregory’s Rise in the Racing Industry 34:16

25 days ago34:16

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Send us a text In this episode of the Women's Motorsports Network podcast, host Melinda Russell sits down with Eva Gregory, a trailblazer in the motorsports industry. Eva shares her journey from a college student working as a cashier at Atlanta Motorsports Park to becoming the Director of Operations at Road Atlanta by her early twenties, and her current role managing marketing partnerships at Hagerty. Throughout the conversation, Eva discusses the challenges she faced as a young woman in a male-dominated field, how mentorship and curiosity fueled her growth, and the importance of representation for women in motorsports. Eva highlights Hagerty's commitment to supporting women in the industry, including their partnership with Shift Up Now and sponsorship of racer Sabre Cook. The discussion also explores how visibility and community can inspire the next generation of motorsport enthusiasts, with Eva encouraging women to recognize the vast opportunities available beyond driving. The episode concludes with Eva’s insights on the importance of adaptability, determination, and the power of asking questions to navigate and excel in the motorsports world. Support the show…

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Kelly Gouldthread: First All-Women’s Competition Club: Inside the Women’s Dirt Bike Racing Association 45:09

25 days ago45:09

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Send us a text In this week’s Women’s Motorsports Network Podcast Blog , we spotlight Kelly Goldthread , president of the Women's Dirt Bike Racing Association (WDBRA) . Kelly shares her inspiring journey from growing up at motorcycle tracks to founding the first all-women’s competition club sanctioned by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) in the U.S. Driven by her passion for racing and community, Kelly established the WDBRA to connect female racers, foster leadership, and make dirt bike racing more accessible for women of all skill levels. The blog highlights Kelly’s efforts to provide mentorship, create inclusive race classes, and encourage women to take on leadership roles in District 36 of Northern California. With her team, she has helped boost female participation in the sport while promoting confidence and teamwork among riders. Kelly also discusses her future goals of working full-time with the AMA and continuing to advocate for women in motorsports. The post encourages women nationwide to get involved in racing, attend upcoming events like the Trailblazer GP on September 28 , and reach out to WDBRA for guidance on starting local clubs. Kelly’s story is a testament to perseverance, community, and creating opportunities for women in dirt bike racing. Support the show…

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Capital City Speedway Promoter Hannah Coltrain-Hamrick: How One Woman’s Passion Is Reigniting Local Racing 37:18

25 days ago37:18

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Send us a text In this episode of the Women’s Motorsports Network Podcast , host Melinda Russell sits down with Hannah Coltrane Hamrick , a passionate motorsports promoter from Virginia. Hannah shares her personal journey from being a racing enthusiast to becoming the promotions director at Capital City Speedway . Her story is rooted in love, community, and a deep-seated passion for racing, inspired by her late husband, Jimmy Hamrick, a beloved local racer. 🏎️ Key Highlights: ✅ Early Love for Motorsports: Hannah’s fascination with cars began at age five, inspired by her mother’s love for classic Corvettes. ✅ Racing with Jimmy: Meeting her husband in 2012 led to weekends at the track and hands-on racing experiences. ✅ Stepping into Promotions: After organizing successful memorial races for Jimmy, Hannah was appointed promotions director at Capital City Speedway in October 2023. ✅ Creative Promotions on a Budget: Hannah’s focus is on community-driven promotions, leveraging local events, social media, and partnerships with youth organizations. ✅ Community Connection: The racing community remains Hannah’s second family, helping her stay connected to her husband’s memory. 🏁 Upcoming Events at Capital City Speedway: 📅 March 8: 2025 Season Opener 📅 March 15: Spring Gobbler – One of the track’s largest annual events 📅 VDKA Races: Two major events hosted during the season 📅 November: Turkey Trot – A fan-favorite end-of-season race 💡 Promotions Strategies Discussed: ✔️ Track displays at regional races to attract new spectators ✔️ Radio promotions and free ticket giveaways to increase attendance ✔️ Youth engagement through partnerships with local schools and organizations ✔️ Arrive-and-drive programs to introduce newcomers to racing ✔️ Emphasis on email marketing and social media consistency 🗣️ Hannah’s Why: “It’s about honoring Jimmy and staying close to the racing family we built. This is more than just a job—it’s a tribute.” 🚀 Final Thoughts: Hannah’s unwavering commitment to both her community and motorsports shines through every promotional effort. Her goal? To see Capital City Speedway thriving with packed stands and racers of all ages. This episode is a reminder of how motorsports is more than just racing—it’s about people, passion, and perseverance. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to the Women’s Motorsports Network Podcast for more inspiring stories like Hannah’s! 🌐 Follow Capital City Speedway on Facebook | Instagram 🏆 Together, we’re celebrating every woman’s journey in motorsports—one story at a time. 🎧 Listen to the full episode now! Support the show…

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Revving Through Life: The Inspiring Journey of Stacie Rivers in Motorsports 49:18

26 days ago49:18

49:18

Send us a text Revving Through Life: The Inspiring Journey of Stacie Rivers in Motorsports Recorded 19Feb2025 In this episode of the Women's Motorsports Network Podcast , host Melinda Russell sits down with Stacie Rivers , a passionate racer and business owner from Texas, to explore her journey in the world of motorsports. Stacie shares how her unexpected introduction to racing through car audio competitions sparked a deep love for drag racing. Despite early challenges, including limited resources and a lack of support, her perseverance led her to become a prominent figure in the racing community. The turning point in Stacie's journey came when she met her husband, Jesse, a talented car builder. Together, they transformed a hobby into a lifestyle, participating in high-profile events such as SEMA and Holley LS Fest . Their involvement in burnouts and drifting has gained national recognition, with Stacie recently expanding her skills to include competitive drifting. Beyond racing, Stacie and Jesse manage a successful restoration business specializing in Trans Ams and Camaros. Their partnership extends beyond the track, blending personal and professional passions to build a motorsports legacy. Family, teamwork, and a shared love for cars are at the core of their endeavors. Throughout the conversation, Stacie emphasizes the importance of resilience, community, and empowering women in motorsports. Her story showcases the power of pursuing passions, overcoming obstacles, and inspiring others to break barriers. Key Takeaways: ✅ Stacie’s racing journey began unexpectedly through car audio competitions. ✅ Persevered through a decade of racing challenges before re-entering the sport with renewed support. ✅ Shares a strong partnership with her husband, blending racing and business. ✅ Active participant in national events, burnouts, and drifting competitions. ✅ Advocates for women in motorsports, emphasizing community and empowerment. Listen to the Full Episode: 🎧 Available on the Women's Motorsports Network Podcast – Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with Stacie Rivers, where passion meets horsepower and dreams hit the track. Support the show…

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Behind the Helmet: Payton Geitzenauer’s Racing Journey 41:21

29 days ago41:21

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Send us a text 🎙️ Women's Motorsports Network Podcast – Episode Summary In this episode, host Melinda Russell sits down with 15-year-old racing sensation Payton Geitzenauer. Payton shares her inspiring journey from discovering her love for motorsports at age 7 to funding her first race car through hard work and determination. 🚦 Payton discusses her experiences racing quarter midgets, partnering with Ashcraft Motorsports, and her dreams of competing in sprint cars. She highlights the challenges of catching up with more experienced racers, the importance of family and sponsor support, and the friendships she's built in the motorsports community. 🏁 Tune in for an uplifting conversation filled with heartfelt stories, racing insights, and Payton’s aspirations for the future. Don’t miss this celebration of young talent in motorsports! 🎧 Listen now on all major podcast platforms! #WomensMotorsports #PodcastSummary #PaytonGeitzenauer #GirlsInRacing #MotorsportsJourney Support the show…

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Indy 500, NXG Racing, and Engineering Dreams with Gabby Carroll 33:12

4 weeks ago33:12