#156 From Runway to Raceway: Gabby Downing’s Shift from Models to Motors

This week on Brews & Banter, Roman and Frank throw back a few cold ones with Gabby Downing — former high-fashion model turned full-throttle car builder, drifter, and content creator. Gabby shares the raw, honest version of her journey: from the glam of the runway to the grease-under-the-nails reality of wrenching on a 1987 Honda CRX with her late dad’s old toolbox. We dive deep into what made her trade heels for hydraulic jacks — how fixing that first rust-bucket car sparked a passion for racing, building, and self-reliance. Gabby walks us through her car history (CRX, Subaru WRX, BMW, and now a 1999 C5 Corvette drift build), the struggles of being one of the few women in the garage/racing world, and how she taught herself everything from mechanical work to social-media branding. Between laughs, real talk, and a few beers, we get the story behind her motto: “Clarity, goals, and donuts” — a little formula she says helped her stay true to herself, chase her passion, and build a life she loves. If you love cars, second chances, or just badass authenticity — this episode hits different. Buckle up, hit play, and enjoy the ride. 🍻