Be Differential

Automotive lifestyle events — concours, themed gatherings, destination car meets, immersive marque festivals — are having a moment. And Eva Gregory has a personal relationship with this world that goes back long before it was part of her professional life.In this week's Thursday Pit Stop, Eva breaks down the full spectrum of automotive lifestyle events, from the white-glove judged concours at Amelia Island and Hilton Head to Luftgekühlt, Rennsport Reunion, Radwood, Kübelwagen gatherings, and the Cars and Coffee happening in a thousand parking lots every Sunday morning. She explains exactly why this format is winning the attention economy right now — four specific reasons that most people in the industry haven't fully articulated — and then asks the honest question that sits underneath all of it: are these events actually converting observers into participants? Or are they an extraordinary entry point that too often stays self-contained?The depth of car culture lives somewhere these events can't quite reach. And the infrastructure around them needs to do a better job of showing people the door.This episode pairs directly with last week's conversation about car clubs — together they form a two-part look at how car culture is organizing itself for the next generation.Learn more at https://www.bedifferentialpodcast.com/Topics covered: automotive lifestyle events, concours d'elegance, Amelia Island Concours, Hilton Head Concours, Luftgekühlt, Rennsport Reunion, Radwood, Kübelwagen, Cars and Coffee, car meets, car culture, grassroots motorsports, Hagerty, automotive community, classic cars, enthusiast events, Be Differential podcast

What does it take to go from the roads of Galway to the gravel stages of the American Rally Association — in a sport where women have historically been the exception, not the rule? In this episode of the BeDifferential Podcast, we sit down with Aoife Raftery: Irish rally driver, DirtFish Women in Motorsport Programme driver, Motorsport Ireland Road Safety Ambassador, inaugural Rosemary Smith Award recipient, and one of the most exciting rising forces in global rallying today.Aoife grew up in Galway, made her rallying debut in 2021, and has since competed across Irish, British, and Junior FIA European Rally Championship stages — becoming the first female driver to join the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy along the way. Her 2024 season included a class win at the Ulster Rally, a podium in the final round of the Junior British Rally Championship, and selection into the top 15 of the FIA Beyond Rally Women's Talent Spotting Programme. Then, in early 2025, she was named one of only two drivers selected globally for DirtFish's inaugural Women in Motorsport Driver Programme — and promptly went to America for the first time, made her four-wheel-drive rally debut at the Olympus Rally, and collected three podiums in four starts, including a third overall in a Rally3.In this conversation, Aoife gets candid about what it actually takes to make peace with the uncertainty of rally driving, how she breaks down the technical craft of pacenotes and left-foot braking for those unfamiliar with what the sport demands day to day, and what it felt like to step into a 4WD car for the very first time at a competitive level. We talk about the difference between European and American stages, what it means to carry the legacy of Rosemary Smith, and how she holds onto pure joy in a sport that can bury it under pressure and expectation. And as a STEM advocate who has spoken to thousands of teenage girls about careers in motorsport, Aoife makes a compelling case for why the next generation of women in racing might come from the engineering lab just as much as the driver's seat.This one is for every girl who was told the race wasn't for her — and every person who believes the sport is stronger when more voices are in it.Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you never miss out! https://www.bedifferentialpodcast.com/

A number of car clubs across the country are in genuine decline. Some are growing despite every headwind. And the real reasons behind both are more complicated — and more honest — than most people are willing to say out loud.In this week's Thursday Pit Stop, Eva Gregory asks the question that keeps coming up inside the automotive and motorsports world: are car clubs dying? Fresh from attending the Ferrari Club of America National Meet, she names the causes behind club decline — including the one that doesn't get talked about enough — breaks down what separates the clubs that are shrinking from the ones that are actually growing year over year, and makes the case for what car clubs do that no Instagram follow, Discord server, or YouTube comment section can ever fully replace.The passion in the next generation of enthusiasts is real. What's missing is a reason to formalize it. And the clubs that understand that distinction are the ones with a future.This one is for the longtime club member, the enthusiast who's never joined one, and everyone trying to figure out what car culture looks like for the generation after ours.Learn more at bedifferentialpodcast.comTopics covered: car clubs, automotive community, club membership decline, Porsche Club of America, Ferrari Club of America, car culture, classic cars, Hagerty, Luftgekühlt, Rennsport, grassroots motorsports, next generation enthusiasts, automotive lifestyle, Be Differential podcast

What does it actually take to break into professional motorsports when you don't have the budget, the backing, or the blueprint? In this episode of the BeDifferential Podcast, we sit down with Brad Perez — NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series driver, ARCA Menards Series competitor, high-performance driving instructor, and one of the most compelling stories in racing today.Brad is a first-generation racer who didn't start karting until age 17. From there, he built his own Spec Miata from the ground up, stacked internships across NASCAR, IMSA, SCCA, and NASA, and made the leap to North Carolina in 2019 with no guaranteed seat — just a belief that getting inside the sport was the only way forward. He's worked as a tire specialist in the Truck Series, earned his ARCA Menards Series debut in 2021, and has since racked up NASCAR Truck Series and O'Reilly Auto Parts Series starts, most recently driving the No. 42 Chevrolet for Young's Motorsports with support from Bubba Wallace's Live to Be Different Foundation and the Boys & Girls Club of St. Lucie County.In this conversation, Brad gets real about what he learned wrenching on his own car, what each internship taught him that the others couldn't, and what it felt like to finally transition from the pit box to the driver's seat. We talk about the difference between oval prep and street course prep, what a more stable team home means after years of one-off rides, and what he would change about how NASCAR develops new talent. And when we ask him where he sees himself in five years, his answer might surprise you.If you've ever wondered what it looks like to build a motorsports career without the traditional ladder — this episode is exactly that story.Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you never miss out! https://www.bedifferentialpodcast.com/

Formula 1's American expansion is one of the most remarkable growth stories in professional sports history — 135% audience growth since 2018, three US races, Cadillac on the grid, and Apple TV now broadcasting to a fanbase that barely existed a decade ago. By every measurable standard, the numbers are extraordinary.But are the numbers the whole story?In this week's Thursday Pit Stop, host Eva Gregory pulls back from the race weekend and asks the bigger question: is F1's American expansion actually good for motorsports — not just good for viewership, sponsorship revenue, and cultural cachet, but good for the sport itself? Good for the people who were here before it was cool?Eva brings her perspective from inside the industry to offer an honest read on what Drive to Survive built, what the Las Vegas Grand Prix really was, and what the difference between an audience and a community actually means for the long-term health of the sport. She also raises the question that doesn't get asked enough: while F1 has been expanding its American footprint, what has happened to IndyCar, IMSA, and the grassroots scene that gave American motorsports its identity in the first place?This episode won't give you a clean answer — because Eva doesn't think there is one. What it will give you are three questions worth sitting with, and one closing question she genuinely wants you to answer.If you came to F1 through Drive to Survive, the Miami grid walk, or the Las Vegas spectacle — this episode is for you. If you've been here for decades and you're not sure how to feel about the new crowd — this one is for you too.Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the know https://www.bedifferentialpodcast.com/

What does it look like to build a career in automotive when there's no obvious door to walk through? This week, we sit down with Nolan Browning, Head of Partnerships at Cars & Bids, for an honest conversation about a career path that started not with a dream job, but with a CarMax business office.Nolan shares how a passion for cars that had nothing to do with his day job led him to launch a blog — a side project he ran for nearly nine years while working full-time — and how outranking major automotive publishers on Google and Reddit with zero budget taught him lessons no marketing textbook could. From earning press vehicles as an independent blogger to eventually leading brand marketing at Motul for six years, building multi-platform campaigns at RACER, and now serving as the first dedicated Head of Partnerships at Cars & Bids, Nolan's journey is a masterclass in playing the long game.We get into what it really means to build a partnerships function from the ground up, how brand integrations work differently across YouTube, podcasts, and live events, and what changes when you've sat on both sides of the negotiating table. Whether you're trying to break into automotive media, dreaming of a career in motorsports marketing, or just curious about how the business of car culture actually works — this one is for you.Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you never miss out! https://www.bedifferentialpodcast.com/

Lewis Hamilton. At Silverstone. In a Ferrari. If you follow Formula 1 at any level, you understand why that image carries weight that goes far beyond points and standings.In this week's Thursday Pit Stop, Eva breaks down why the 2026 British Grand Prix is one of the most emotionally loaded race weekends in recent memory — and why Silverstone is different from every other circuit on the calendar. From Hamilton's return to his home race in a car that isn't quite fast enough yet, to rookie Kimi Antonelli leading the championship in his debut season, to the sprint format returning to Silverstone for the first time since 2021 — there's a lot happening this weekend. Eva unpacks all of it, with the perspective of someone who watches motorsports with both a fan's heart and an industry professional's eye.Plus: what Hamilton's move to Ferrari actually says about identity, legacy, and the cost of chasing something new — and a closing question that might make you think about your own version of that decision.Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the know https://www.bedifferentialpodcast.com/

Chloe Chambers has done what very few have: won in F4, the W Series, F1 Academy, and the Formula Regional Oceania Championship — where she made history as the first woman to start on pole and take the win. Now she's bringing her skills to GT racing in the 2026 Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America with RAFA Racing. In this episode of the BeDifferential podcast, Chloe pulls back the curtain on the full picture of a professional racing career — the grind between races, the reality of sponsorship and brand building, the moments she questioned everything, and the mindset shifts that have kept her moving forward. She also talks about working with Red Bull Ford, her goals for the Super Trofeo season, and what she hopes her legacy looks like when it's all said and done. For aspiring drivers, motorsport fans, or anyone pursuing an unconventional path, this is a conversation you don't want to miss.Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you never miss out! https://www.bedifferentialpodcast.com/

Formula 1 has never been more popular. Le Mans just sold out. The global motorsports market is valued at nearly seven billion dollars. So why do tracks keep closing? Why is the participant pipeline getting thinner? And why does it feel like the sport is producing more engaged observers and fewer engaged participants?In this week's Thursday Pit Stop, Eva Gregory asks the question the motorsports community doesn't always want to sit with: is the grassroots scene dying — or just changing? And does the distinction even matter if the outcome looks the same?Drawing on her career working inside motorsports facilities and her current role at Hagerty, Eva makes the case that the health of professional motorsports and the health of grassroots motorsports are not the same thing — and that confusing the two is exactly how the foundation gets hollowed out without anyone noticing.This one has a point of view. And it ends with a question that might make you uncomfortable — in the best way.Be sure to join our newsletter to stay in the know! https://www.bedifferentialpodcast.com/

What does it take to build a business that literally saves lives? 

Brad Coleman started as a SafeWay Driving student. He went on to race in NASCAR. He traveled the country talking to high schoolers about driving safety while still actively competing. Then he bought the driving school he once attended, modernized it from the ground up, sold it — and a decade later, bought it back.

In this episode of BeDifferential, Brad shares the full arc: from his first memories behind the wheel, to the disciplines of professional motorsport, to the business lessons that came from scaling a youth driver education franchise with a mission to prevent the phone call nobody wants to receive.

We talk about what racing teaches you about decision-making, how to protect culture when you're handing the keys to franchise owners, and what it really means to play the long game when the dots don't connect until years later.

If you're a parent of a teen driver, an entrepreneur building something that matters, or someone trying to find your own way through an unconventional path — this one's for you.Learn more about Safeway Driving here: https://www.safewaydriving.com/Be sure to join our newsletter to stay up to date here: https://www.bedifferentialpodcast.com/

Most people experience motorsports from the outside. Eva Gregory has spent her career on the inside — and what she learned there didn't come from a textbook.In this week's Thursday Pit Stop, Eva gets personal. Starting as a cashier at a karting facility and working her way through corner marshaling, pit stewarding, wrenching, track rentals, and eventually Director of Operations at Road Atlanta, she shares three things the track taught her that genuinely surprised her — and that she thinks every automotive enthusiast should hear.What does it mean to develop real mechanical empathy? Why are the most important people at any motorsports event completely invisible to most attendees? And what happens to your passion when it becomes your profession — and how do you protect it?This episode is for anyone who loves cars and has ever wondered what it looks like on the other side of the fence. And for anyone who's thought about turning that love into a career.Be sure to join our newsletter to stay in the know! https://www.bedifferentialpodcast.com/

What does it actually take to build a racing career when there's no traditional path to follow? Andre Castro figured it out.Growing up in New York City — inspired by a Williams BMW shirt and a tricycle — Andre found a way into karting without a garage, without a car to haul equipment, and without the typical infrastructure most young drivers take for granted. What he had was ingenuity, a relentless work ethic, and a very clear vision of where he was going.In this episode, Andre walks us through the creative problem-solving that defined his rise through the ranks — from karting in NYC to winning the Team USA Scholarship, finishing 3rd of 97 at the Formula Ford Festival, qualifying cold into a NASCAR Xfinity race with zero prior testing, and racing for Hyundai on the world stage. Now with his sights set on IMSA, the trajectory is only pointing one direction.This is a conversation about creativity, persistence, and building something from scratch — on your own terms.Be sure to join our newsletter to stay in the know! https://www.bedifferentialpodcast.com/

The 94th 24 Hours of Le Mans kicks off this Saturday, June 13th — and this year's race has more storylines than most. Ferrari arrives chasing a fourth consecutive overall win, something no manufacturer has done since Ferrari itself won six in a row in the 1960s. Genesis becomes the first Korean manufacturer ever to compete at the top level of endurance racing. And every single car on the 62-car grid is running on 100% renewable biofuel.In this week's Thursday Pit Stop, Eva Gregory breaks down what actually makes Le Mans different from every other race on the calendar, why the Genesis entry matters beyond the result, and what the shift to renewable fuel tells us about where the automotive industry is genuinely heading — not just where it says it's heading.Plus: the real reason the teams that win at Le Mans tend to be the ones that make the fewest mistakes — and what that principle looks like off the racetrack.Be sure to join our newsletter to stay in the know! https://www.bedifferentialpodcast.com/

Motorsport has a belonging problem — and it's time we talked about it. This week on BeDifferential, we're kicking off a special crossover episode with Misha and Fatima, hosts of the Hold The Pass Podcast, who bring a sharp, fresh perspective from the broader world of sports culture. Together we tackle one of motorsport's most loaded questions: who actually gets to be a racing fan — and who decides?We dig into the gatekeeping vs. access debate, the Drive to Survive effect and the fans it created, F1's massive expansion into Las Vegas and Miami, and whether the sport is evolving or trading its identity for a new audience. We talk social media's role in reshaping racing fandom, the tension between F1's traditional European base and its growing global audience, and whether American fans are truly being welcomed into Formula 1 — or just marketed to.Plus — is grassroots motorsport being left behind while everyone chases F1 and NASCAR headlines? And what would it actually take for motorsport to build the kind of broad, diverse fandom that the NFL and basketball already have?This is Part 1 of a two-part crossover — next up, I head over to Hold The Pass to keep the conversation going. Subscribe so you don't miss it.Learn more about BeDifferential at https://www.bedifferentialpodcast.com/ and sign up for the newsletter to gain inside access and additional updates.

Pikes Peak International Raceway just announced that 2026 will be its final season of motorsports — and it's headed for mixed-use redevelopment. For a lot of people, that's a Colorado story. For Eva, it's something bigger.In this week's Thursday Pit Stop, Eva Gregory draws on her years working inside motorsports facilities — from Atlanta Motorsports Park to Road Atlanta — to explain why track closures like this one aren't isolated incidents. They're a pattern. And they have real consequences for the grassroots racing community, for entry-level competitors, and for the long-term health of the sport we love.What does it actually take to keep a racing facility alive? What do we lose when one closes? And what can enthusiasts do before it's too late?This one's worth your time — whether you've ever set foot on a racetrack or just care about where the sport is headed.Be sure to join our newsletter to stay in the know! https://www.bedifferentialpodcast.com/

Isla Mackenzie grew up on a dairy farm on the Isle of Lewis — and somehow found her way to the Formula 1 pit lane. In this episode, we trace every step of that journey, from stripping down project cars before she could legally drive, to running her own engine tuning business while still in school, to navigating a career path that looked nothing like the industry standard.Isla walks us through the HNC-to-Honours Degree route she took into engineering, why it shaped her thinking in ways a traditional path might not have, and what it actually took — technically and personally — to move from Technician to Systems Engineer inside one of the most demanding technical environments in sport.We get into what Dare to Be Different (now rebranded to FIA Women on Track) meant for her practically (not just symbolically), what it felt like to return to one of their events as a Williams employee, and the advice Susie Wolff gave her at a D2BD connect event in 2018 that she's never forgotten.Isla also breaks down what systems engineering actually means in the context of an F1 car, what race week prep looks like from the operations view, and what she thinks is the single most misunderstood thing about technical motorsport work.And she's honest — about whether the industry has genuinely changed since 2017, what diversity advocacy looks like from inside an F1 team, and what she wishes someone had told her before her first F1 job.If you love cars, engineering, motorsport, or you're trying to find your entry point into an industry that can feel impossible to break into — this one's for you.Be sure to join the newsletter to stay in the know! https://www.bedifferentialpodcast.com/

In competitive industries like automotive and motorsport, there's a quiet pressure to say yes to everything. Every event, every introduction, every potential collaboration — because what if you miss the one that matters?But in this week's Thursday Pit Stop, we're making the case that saying yes to everything might actually be pulling you further from what you're trying to build.We get into:Why the scarcity mindset around opportunity leads to overcommitment and burnoutThe shift from chasing access to practicing discernment — and when that shift needs to happenThree questions to ask before you say yes to anything this weekWhy saying no to the wrong things is how the right things find youWhat intentionality actually looks like in a fast-moving industryThis one is for anyone who's stretched thin, showing up in too many places, and quietly wondering if any of it is moving the needle. It might not be a hustle problem. It might be an alignment one.The BeDifferential Podcast helps people navigate automotive and motorsport on their own terms — building careers and communities with intention, not just momentum.

What does it actually take to own a Top Fuel dragster in 2025 — without a large budget, without a factory sponsor, and without taking the easy road? Joe Barszcz has spent his entire life in drag racing. He's built chassis, run a machine shop, wrenched on funny cars, and shared pits with legends like John Force, JR Todd, and Jerry Toliver. And after decades of being that close to the thing he wanted most, he finally did it — bought Jim Maroney's Top Fuel car with small increments at a time and is heading into the 2026 IHRA 10-race national tour as a team owner. He calls it a blue collar Top Fuel team. This episode is the story of what that actually means.  The BeDifferential Podcast is bringing more people into automotive and motorsport — one story at a time. Learn more at https://www.bedifferentialpodcast.com/Learn more about JBR Nitro at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61587245738321

Most people are waiting. Waiting to feel more confident, more experienced, more qualified. Waiting for some signal that finally tells them it's okay to step in.But that signal doesn't come. And in this week's Thursday Pit Stop, we're talking about why.Confidence isn't something you earn before you act — it's something you build because you did. And the people who seem like they have it all figured out? They started exactly where you are. They just didn't wait.We get into:Why the "feel ready first" mindset quietly keeps capable people on the sidelinesHow confidence actually works — and why action has to come before it, not afterWhy this shows up so strongly in spaces like automotive and motorsportOne practical challenge to take into your week right nowWhat it actually means to take up space — and why you're already allowed toThis one is for anyone who's been holding back, second-guessing themselves, or quietly wondering if they belong. You do. And you don't have to wait until you're sure of that to act like it.The BeDifferential Podcast is built for people finding their way into automotive and motorsport — wherever they're starting from.

What does it look like to be born into motorsport — and then actually earn your place in it anyway?Madelyn Tabor attended her first rally at four weeks old. She grew as a 3rd-generation rally driver, got behind the wheel of a Quarter Midget at 13, and by 18 had made the leap to stage rally. She's competed in the ARA national championship 3 years in a row, a WRC Beyond Rally Women's Program alumna, and someone who's stood on the podium alongside Travis Pastrana and Rhiannon Gelsomino. On paper, it sounds like a straight line. In conversation, it's anything but.In this episode of The BeDifferential Podcast, Madelyn breaks down what it's actually like to grow up inside a racing family. She explains the co-driver relationship, what real race prep looks like behind the scenes, and how her approach shifts when she moves from gravel to snow to ice to pavement. She talks candidly about being the only North American woman selected for the WRC Beyond program, what she took from that experience, and what it's been like navigating the sport as a young woman in a discipline that doesn't always make it easy.But this episode isn't just for the gearheads. Madelyn spends real time on the doors-open side of rally — the co-drivers, the navigators, the service crews, the volunteers — and where someone who's never been to a stage rally can actually start if something about this world is calling to them. If you've ever wondered whether there's a place for you in motorsport, this conversation is the answer.Learn more about Madelyn at https://www.madelyntaborracing.com/

There's a narrative that gets repeated constantly in automotive and motorsport: we have a pipeline problem. Not enough people coming in. Not enough diversity in the talent pool.But what if the pipeline isn't the real issue?In this week's Thursday Pit Stop, we're making the case that the industries don't lack talent — they lack visibility into what they actually are. And that perception gap is causing incredibly capable people to self-select out before they ever raise their hand.We get into:Why the "pipeline problem" framing misses a more important questionHow perception shapes participation — and who ends up in the roomThe roles that exist beyond engineering and racing that most outsiders never seeWhy people who'd thrive here are already deciding it's not for themWhat those of us already in this space can actually do about it — starting this weekThis one is for the people already in automotive and motorsport just as much as it's for the people on the outside looking in. Because changing perception isn't a marketing problem — it's a culture one.The BeDifferential Podcast exists to close exactly this gap: showing people the many ways in to automotive and motorsport, so fewer brilliant people leave before they ever arrive.

Julia Landauer won her first racing championship at 14 years old — and she hasn't slowed down since. A Stanford graduate, NASCAR driver, keynote speaker, entrepreneur, and NASCAR Strategy & Innovation team member, Julia has spent her career moving through rooms she was never supposed to be in and making the case that motorsport has something to teach everyone.In this episode of The BeDifferential Podcast, Julia and Eva dig into what it actually takes to build a racing career from scratch — the funding realities, the sponsorship grind, and what most people completely misunderstand about how drivers get seats. They talk about what it was like growing up in New York City with no obvious path to a racetrack, what her family thought when this became serious, and the moment she knew she could actually compete at a high level.They also get into the harder stuff: what it feels like when "first woman to" becomes complicated, the things that pushed back hardest that rarely get talked about publicly, and how Julia learned to own being the person who never quite fit the obvious mold — not in New York, not at Stanford, not in NASCAR.Julia breaks down what NASCAR's Strategy & Innovation team is actually working on, how she translates racing principles into leadership strategy for Fortune 500 companies, and what her platform FrontRunner is built to do for storytelling and community building. She also shares exactly what she'd tell a young woman who wants to get into racing but has no idea where to start.If you've ever had to figure out how to belong somewhere that wasn't built for you — this one's for you.Learn more about Julia at https://julialandauer.com

Every year after the Miami Grand Prix, the same debate resurfaces: "This isn't real Formula 1." Too flashy. Too celebrity-driven. Too influencer-heavy.But in this week's Thursday Pit Stop, we're asking a different question — not whether Miami fits what F1 has always been, but what Miami is actually doing for the future of the sport.We get into:Why the "that's not real motorsport" conversation misses the pointHow Miami is reaching audiences that traditional race weekends never couldWhat expanding entry points actually looks like in a sport with a legacy as strong as F1'sWhy retention matters just as much as growth — and what that means for everyone already in this spaceThe role you play in welcoming new fans, not just attracting themWhether you've been watching F1 for decades or you found it through Netflix and a TikTok rabbit hole — this episode is about how we grow a sport without leaving people behind on either end.The BeDifferential Podcast is built on one idea: more entry points means more people, and more people makes motorsport better for everyone.

Lewis Houghton didn't get into motorsport media through a press pass or a journalism degree. He got in by being genuinely, relentlessly curious — rewriting his dad's old racing magazines as a kid, building a following on LinkedIn before anyone took him seriously, and eventually earning trust from Red Bull and MotoGP one honest conversation at a time.Now he runs two things simultaneously: SLICKS, his independent motorsport media brand built as a direct antidote to the corporate, play-it-safe content that dominates the space — and copynthat, his copywriting consultancy that helps teams actually say something worth reading.In this episode, Lewis and I dig into what's actually broken in motorsport media, why great writing is still the industry's blind spot even in the era of short-form video, and what it looks like to pitch "be less boring" to organizations that have spent years doing the opposite. He's candid about the hard no's, the industry's blind spots, and the version of himself that played it safe — and didn't make it.If you've ever wanted to build something real in motorsport from scratch, this one's for you. Learn more about SLICKS at slicksmag.com and on Instagram @slicks.mag

If you've spent time in motorsport or automotive, you've probably noticed it: the most talented person in the room doesn't always move forward. So what's actually driving advancement in this industry?In this week's Thursday Pit Stop, we unpack the real factors behind who builds momentum — and who stalls out. Hint: it's less about raw talent, and more about alignment, timing, and trust.We cover:Why motorsport isn't the meritocracy it appears to beThe three factors that consistently show up in people who advanceWhy opportunity timing matters more than most people admitWhat "perceived risk" has to do with who gets the next shotWhat you can actually control — and how to use itWhether you're just breaking into the automotive world or you've been in it for years and feel like your career is stuck, this episode gives you a clearer picture of how the industry actually operates — and how to position yourself within it.The BeDifferential Podcast brings diverse voices and perspectives into automotive and motorsport — because the industry is richer when more people feel invited in.

This week’s Thursday Pit Stop takes a closer look at something that quietly shapes nearly every opportunity in motorsport and the automotive industry: relationships.After exploring how decisions get made and how partnerships come together, this episode dives into what sits underneath both — and why it’s often misunderstood.Because relationships in this space aren’t about quick networking moments or collecting contacts. They’re built over time through consistency, trust, and proximity to the work. And more often than not, they’re the reason opportunities happen long before anything is ever formally posted.In this episode, we break down: • The difference between networking and real relationship-building • How trust, proximity, and consistency influence decision-making • Why opportunities can feel inaccessible from the outside — and what’s actually happening behind the scenes • How to approach relationship-building in a way that’s genuine, sustainable, and effectiveIf you’ve ever felt like opportunities are happening around you — but not with you — this episode offers a candid look at why, and what to do about it.Because in this industry, relationships aren’t transactional.
They’re cumulative.

This week on The BeDifferential Podcast, we sit down with Theresa Contreras — a builder, designer, and entrepreneur whose work sits at the intersection of craftsmanship, innovation, and cultural influence.From her early entry into the automotive world to leading boundary-pushing builds through Baja Forged, Theresa shares what it really looks like to evolve from participating in the industry to actively shaping it.We talk about the decisions behind the builds — what gets preserved, what gets reimagined, and how she approaches design in a space where tradition and innovation don’t always align. She also opens up about navigating the realities behind high-level custom work, and what people often misunderstand about what it takes to execute at this level.Beyond the builds, this conversation dives into brand — how Theresa transitioned from creating one-off projects into building a cohesive identity across products, media, and storytelling, and how supporting platforms have influenced both visibility and opportunity.We also explore leadership, representation, and the evolving definition of what it means to "BeDifferential"  today — especially for those entering the industry from non-traditional paths.This episode isn’t just about cars.It’s about vision, evolution, and building something that lasts.

This week’s Thursday Pit Stop takes a closer look at one of the most visible — and most misunderstood — parts of the motorsport industry: partnerships.From the outside, deals can look simple. A logo gets placed, a press release goes out, and everything appears to fit neatly into place. But internally, there’s a much more complex set of decisions happening — and they don’t always align with what’s visible on the surface.In this episode, we break down what brands are actually evaluating when considering a partnership, why strong ideas don’t always move forward, and how timing, alignment, and internal priorities shape the outcome far more than hype ever will.If you’ve ever wondered why some opportunities come together — while others don’t — this is the context you don’t usually get to see.Because partnerships don’t move forward just because they look good.
They move forward because they make sense.

Motorsport has long been built on access and relationships — but Erica Sietsma is working to change that.After building her career in automotive technology and digital marketing, Erica founded Autofluencer to modernize how sponsorship works in motorsports. In this episode, we explore the gap she saw in the industry and how her platform is helping make sponsorship more accessible for drivers, creators, and brands alike.We break down the idea of “social media as currency” — what it actually means, how brands are responding, and how it’s reshaping the value exchange in racing.Erica also shares what it’s like to build a company in an industry that doesn’t always move quickly, along with the leadership lessons, challenges, and motivation behind creating something new.This conversation is about access, evolution, and expanding who gets to participate in motorsport — whether you’ve always considered yourself a “car person” or not.Because being differential isn’t just about showing up differently — it’s about creating new ways in.

This week’s Thursday Pit Stop takes a step back from race results and headlines to look at how motorsport actually operates behind the scenes.Because while teams, drivers, and race strategy are the most visible parts of the sport, the decisions that shape opportunities, partnerships, and long-term direction are happening long before cars ever hit the track — and not always by the people you expect.In this episode, we break down the three layers that influence decision-making in motorsport:    •    The visible layer — teams and competition    •    The financial layer — brands, sponsors, and commercial priorities    •    The structural layer — governance, regulations, and series leadershipThe reality? Motorsport doesn’t run on individual decisions — it runs on alignment across all three.If you’re looking to build a career, grow within the industry, or better understand why things happen the way they do, this episode offers a clearer lens into the system behind the sport — and how to navigate it more strategically.

In this Thursday Pit Stop, we’re shifting the conversation from visibility to velocity.Women’s History Month creates moments—but real progress is built in what happens after.This episode explores the difference between celebrating inclusion and structurally embedding it into the fabric of motorsport and automotive:    •    How initiatives like Girls on Track are creating early, intentional entry points tied directly to the future of the industry    •    Why increasing female representation in governance—stewards, technical roles, and regulatory bodies—is changing how decisions get made    •    And the real question every organization should be asking right now: what do your April budgets say about your priorities?Because momentum isn’t a headline—it’s something you can measure.Across infrastructure, pipelines, leadership, and policy, women aren’t waiting to be included.They’re actively shaping what this industry becomes next.This isn’t about the moment. It’s about what we build from it.

Tiffany Lodder has built a career at the intersection of motorsport and service — but her work goes far beyond the traditional boundaries of racing.As the co-founder of Operation Motorsport, Tiffany has helped create a pathway for military veterans to find renewed purpose, community, and opportunity through motorsport. In this conversation, we explore how racing — often seen purely as competition — can become a powerful platform for impact.Tiffany shares what first drew her into the motorsport world and the moment she realized its potential to serve something bigger. We dive into the gap she identified between the veteran community and the racing industry, and how Operation Motorsport was built to bridge it.We also unpack why the high-performance, fast-paced nature of motorsport uniquely resonates with veterans, and what success truly looks like within the program — from employment to confidence to connection.This episode also challenges the industry at large — asking how motorsport can better embrace its role as a platform for social impact, and what meaningful inclusion really looks like beyond surface-level representation.For anyone looking to build something different — especially women carving out nontraditional paths — Tiffany offers a powerful perspective on resilience, purpose, and leading with intention.Because sometimes, the most important work happening in motorsport isn’t just about who finishes first — it’s about who gets to be part of the race in the first place.

What does it look like to operate at a high level — in two entirely different worlds?Sonya Lloyd is both a world championship motorcycle racer and a participant in Siemens’ Technical Marketing Leadership Development Program — a combination that challenges the idea that you have to choose between passion and profession.In this episode, we explore how Sonya navigates the intersection of motorsport and technical leadership, and what it takes to perform at an elite level in both. From the discipline required on the track to the precision needed in corporate environments, Sonya shares how these experiences inform and strengthen each other.We dive into her journey into motorcycle racing, what kept her committed through the toughest moments, and how she simultaneously built a path within Siemens. Along the way, we unpack how preparation, pressure, and failure show up across both arenas — and what it means to deliver when the stakes are high.This conversation also explores the power of storytelling — from translating complex technical ideas into meaningful narratives, to communicating performance and purpose in motorsport. Sonya reflects on how her technical background shapes the way she understands machinery and engineering, and how racing has influenced how she shows up as a communicator and leader.We also talk about visibility — why it matters for women in both motorsport and technical leadership — and how organizations can better support individuals pursuing nontraditional, dual-career paths.At its core, this episode is about expanding what’s possible. About rejecting the idea that you have to choose one version of yourself. And about building a life that fully reflects both passion and practicality.Because sometimes, being differential means refusing to pick just one lane — and having the courage to excel in both.

This week’s Pit Stop explores a different kind of leadership — one that doesn’t rely on volume, but on impact.For decades, leadership in motorsport has been defined by command-and-control environments. But behind the scenes, a shift has been happening. One shaped by strategic thinking, cultural influence, and long-term vision.We look at leaders like Claire Williams, who navigated financial and organizational complexity at Williams Racing with transparency and resilience. Susie Wolff, who is now shaping the future of driver development and opportunity through her leadership at F1 Academy. And Jessica Hawkins, whose presence within Aston Martin represents more than a role — it’s a shift in how leadership and influence show up inside elite team environments.Because leadership isn’t just about who speaks the loudest.
It’s about who moves systems, shapes culture, and creates pathways forward.And increasingly, that leadership is being redefined.

Industries don’t evolve accidentally — they evolve when someone builds new pathways in.In this week’s Thursday Pitstop, we’re looking at how women have helped reshape the motorsports talent pipeline by creating new points of entry into the industry.From organizations like Women in Motorsports North America building mentorship networks, scholarships, and career development opportunities, to the launch of F1 Academy addressing long-standing gaps in the driver development ladder, these initiatives represent more than visibility. They’re structural interventions designed to expand access and opportunity.We’ll also look at how leaders like Lyn St. James have turned personal success into long-term impact through programs that mentor and financially support the next generation of drivers.Because when access expands, the talent pool expands.And when the talent pool expands, the entire industry becomes stronger.Women haven’t just entered motorsports — in many cases, they’ve widened the gates.🎙 Thursday Pitstop episodes are short reflections from the BeDifferential Podcast exploring the systems, people, and ideas shaping the future of motorsports.

What if there was a platform that made it easier for racers to make meaningful connections with fans, sell merch without inventory or overhead, and grow into paid partnerships at the same time? That’s the vision behind Racer on Demand, and its founder Amanda Van Den Elzen joins The BeDifferential Podcast to explain how it’s changing the game.Amanda shares the story of her path into motorsports, the challenges she overcame in a male-dominated industry, and the lessons learned along the way. She dives into trends in digital engagement, sponsorship, and talent development, plus success stories that prove the platform’s impact.This episode is for anyone curious about where motorsports marketing is headed — and how meaningful connections are making sponsorships more accessible for the next generation of drivers.Learn more here: https://racerondemand.us

Not every influence in motorsport happens on the podium.In this week’s Thursday Pitstop, we explore the invisible infrastructure that keeps the motorsport and automotive industries running — governance, operations, ownership, and the leadership systems that shape the future of the sport.While drivers and race results often take the spotlight, the industry itself depends on an intricate network of decision-makers, organizers, and operators who build the framework behind every race weekend.This episode highlights the women who have helped architect those systems.From Michèle Mouton’s leadership with the FIA Women in Motorsport Commission to Connie Nyholm’s stewardship of Virginia International Raceway, we look at how women have shaped the rules, facilities, and operational structures that sustain the sport.We also explore the often-unseen leadership roles across race control, technical compliance, event logistics, sanctioning bodies, and marketing partnerships — positions that ensure the motorsport ecosystem continues to evolve.Because the true impact on an industry isn’t always the most visible.Sometimes it’s structural.And women have been shaping that structure for decades.

In this episode of The BeDifferential Podcast, I sit down with Allison Melangton to explore the experiences, pivotal decisions, and leadership principles that shaped her remarkable career across global sporting events and the motorsports industry.Allison shares how she first found her way into this world, the early moments that helped define her path, and the turning points that revealed the impact she could have — not just operationally, but culturally. We dive into her leadership philosophy, how it has evolved through decades of experience, and what it means to lead with clarity, trust, and purpose in high-stakes environments.We also unpack what makes Penske Entertainment such a unique force within motorsports — from its role in shaping the future of racing to the opportunities it creates across the industry — and why Allison is energized by where things are headed. As part of the conversation, we discuss the importance of community and advocacy through Women in Motorsports North America, and the tangible progress being made to expand access and representation.This episode offers a thoughtful look at credibility, mentorship, and the responsibility of opening doors — along with Allison’s perspective on what gives her optimism about the future of motorsports, from emerging talent to innovation and culture. Whether you’re building a career in racing, leading a team, or simply passionate about the sport, this conversation is filled with insight and inspiration.

In this Thursday Pitstop episode of the BeDifferential Podcast, we’re talking about leadership — not the loudest voices or the headline-makers, but the pioneers quietly shaping automotive and motorsports culture from the inside out.As teams, brands, and organizations across the automotive and racing industries navigate shifting budgets, advancing technology, and evolving expectations, strong leadership matters more than ever. But real leadership isn’t about titles, hierarchy, or visibility. It’s about influence — the ripple effect your actions have across teams, programs, and communities.In this quick reflection, we explore:​ What it means to lead without permission​ How to create meaningful, lasting impact in motorsports and automotive​ Why investing in culture, mentorship, and collaboration matters​ The difference between short-term recognition and long-term influenceWhether you’re managing a race program, building partnerships, working behind the scenes in motorsports, or just beginning your career in the automotive industry, this episode is a reminder: you can lead from wherever you are.Leadership is not about reacting to chaos — it’s about showing up consistently, thinking long-term, and choosing to contribute in ways that endure.If you’re passionate about motorsports leadership, automotive culture, mentorship, and creating opportunity for the next generation, this conversation is for you.Share this episode with someone who’s thinking about how to make an impact — not just a splash — in racing or the automotive world.BeDifferential is about more than access. It’s about influence. And that starts with you.

In this episode, I sit down with Mark Pribanic to explore what happens when a car stops being a hobby and becomes part of how you move through the world.From the moment a Porsche 356 found him to the countless miles, roadside repairs, and unforgettable trips that followed, Mark shares how driving a 60-plus-year-old car everywhere has shaped his perspective on patience, risk, and freedom.We talk about sketchy moments, the stories only old cars can create, and why choosing to drive — rather than simply preserve — keeps the spirit of these machines alive. We also dive into his connection with the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia, the emotional roles different cars play, and what it means to be a steward of something with history.If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re “crazy” for wanting to really use a classic — this conversation is for you.Follow along on Instagram @mark.pribanic

In this Thursday Pitstop, we’re talking about one of the most common — and most honest — questions I hear: “I want to get involved in motorsports, but where do I start… and how do I stand out?”The truth is, breaking into automotive or racing doesn’t require a perfect resume, a flashy introduction, or insider connections. What it does require is curiosity, initiative, and a willingness to contribute where your skills intersect with opportunity.We explore how different strengths — whether creative, analytical, or technical — can translate into meaningful roles across the industry, and why understanding culture and community is just as important as building experience.I also share why standing out isn’t about chasing attention — it’s about building credibility through consistency. From volunteering at local events to observing where teams and programs need support, small actions compound into real opportunities over time.If you’re early in your journey — or even considering a pivot — this episode offers practical ways to start showing up thoughtfully and building momentum.Key takeaways include:How to identify where your skills fit within motorsportsWhy participation matters more than perfectionThe long-term value of relationships, mentorship, and communityPractical steps you can take this season to get involvedIf you know someone trying to find their place in automotive or racing, share this episode with them — and we’ll see you next week for another Thursday Pitstop.

What happens when a mom who’s never driven stick decides to enroll in rally school — exhausted, overwhelmed, and unsure if she even belongs there?In this episode of The BeDifferential Podcast, Eva sits down with Kelly Conroy, rally racer and author of Your Mom Races Rally, to talk about what it really looks like to ditch society’s expectations and rediscover yourself — one muddy stage at a time.Kelly shares the raw reality of stepping into rally racing with zero experience, the steep learning curve of mastering a manual transmission, and the emotional weight of pursuing a dream that didn’t neatly fit the “modern mother” mold. From navigating guilt and pushback to redefining what it means to set an example for her children, this conversation is as vulnerable as it is empowering.We dive into:The moment Kelly realized rally racing wasn’t just a hobby — it was life-changingOvercoming fear, self-doubt, and the temptation to quitBuilding and racing her 40-year-old car, “Nessie,” and what wrenching on it taught her about resilienceThe impact of finding a community of women racers and off-roadersHow chasing joy reshaped her definition of fun, freedom, and self-careWhy reclaiming your identity doesn’t make you a “bad mom” — it makes you a braver oneThis episode isn’t just about motorsports. It’s about permission — to evolve, to take up space, and to pursue something that makes you feel alive, even if it scares you.Listeners can also follow Kelly’s rally journey on Instagram at @yourmomracesrally.

In this Thursday Pitstop, Eva unpacks a question she’s hearing more and more across the automotive and motorsports space: How do brands actually stand out right now?In a landscape shaped by rapid tech shifts, evolving consumer expectations, and constant digital noise, the brands making real impact aren’t the loudest — they’re the most consistent. From Ford Racing’s community-driven storytelling to the rise of community-first marketing, next-gen engagement, and more honest conversations around EV adoption, this episode explores what meaningful brand leadership really looks like today.This short-form conversation is about long-term thinking, authentic connection, and building something that lasts — whether you’re a brand, a builder, or someone trying to make your mark in the industry.

In this episode of The BeDifferential Podcast, Nick Ellis, Executive Director of the RPM Foundation, shares how RPM is turning classic car restoration into a movement that’s about people, skills, and legacy—not just vehicles. We dive into the urgent need to preserve traditional craftsmanship as many master artisans age out of the industry and explore how RPM’s hands-on apprenticeship program is shaping the next generation of restoration professionals.Nick explains why restoration teaches lessons you won’t find in any classroom, the risks the collector car world faces if we don’t invest in these skills, and how mentorship and storytelling are central to keeping this craft alive. From connecting with young people who didn’t grow up around cars to balancing historic techniques with modern tools, this conversation sheds light on how preserving restoration skills is also about preserving culture, history, and identity.Whether you’re a collector, enthusiast, or simply curious about the intersection of craft, legacy, and mentorship, Nick’s insights show why investing in the next generation of restorers matters—for cars and for the people who bring them to life.Learn more about RPM: https://www.rpm.foundation

January in motorsports feels like a sprint — Daytona sets the tone, inboxes explode, calendars fill, and it seems like the season is already in full gear.But February? That’s when reality hits. Budgets tighten, travel ramps up, timelines get compressed, and the work shifts from planning to execution. Suddenly, momentum isn’t enough — sustainability becomes the real challenge.In this Thursday Pitstop episode of the BeDifferential Podcast, we break down how teams, brands, and individuals can survive and thrive once the green flag waves. You’ll hear why feeling “behind” often isn’t true, how to prioritize clarity over busyness, and why pacing yourself matters more than ever in a long, demanding season.Whether you’re building a career, managing partnerships, leading a small team, or wearing multiple hats, this episode is a reminder that busy doesn’t always mean effective — and that endurance thinking still wins when the calendar fills up.Momentum is energizing.Sustainability is what gets you to the finish.

What does it really take to become a professional race car driver — especially if you didn’t start young?In this episode of The BeDifferential Podcast, host Eva Gregory sits down with Nick DeLucia, founder of Rex Racing, to break down the realities of motorsports careers, driver development, sponsorship, and sustainable racing.Nick shares how he entered motorsports later than most, why he built Rex Racing to fill a major industry gap, and what aspiring drivers actually need to succeed — beyond talent alone. From mindset and race strategy to sponsorship acquisition and financial sustainability, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the truths most drivers don’t hear.You’ll learn:What separates drivers who advance from those who plateauThe biggest misconceptions about motorsports sponsorshipHow to fund a racing career realisticallyWhy mindset, branding, and partner value matter as much as lap timesThe skills every aspiring driver should build off the trackHow to create long-term success in a competitive racing industryWhether you’re an aspiring driver, motorsports fan, or industry professional, this episode offers honest insight into what it takes to build a meaningful and sustainable career in racing.Learn More about Rex Racing on instagram at @rex_racing1

The Rolex 24 at Daytona isn’t just the season opener — it’s a reminder.In this Thursday Pitstop episode of the BeDifferential Podcast, we pause on what this year’s Rolex 24 continues to reinforce about endurance racing and the motorsports industry as a whole. Beyond the results, Daytona consistently exposes the things that matter most: preparation, adaptability, alignment, and the ability to stay disciplined when conditions change.This episode reflects on Porsche Penske’s continued success, the impact of weather and extended cautions, and why endurance racing never lets teams hide — eventually, everything you’ve prepared for shows up on track. But more importantly, it connects those lessons to the broader realities many of us are navigating right now: shifting budgets, evolving roles, long-term partnerships, and career sustainability in motorsports and automotive.From building a career to leading a team or representing a brand, endurance racing offers a powerful framework for long-term growth. It rewards consistency over flash, systems over ego, and teams over individuals.If you’re navigating a pivot, feeling stretched thin, or questioning whether steady progress still matters — this episode is your reminder that endurance thinking still wins.

What happens when the version of yourself that once felt safe no longer fits?In this deeply reflective episode of The BeDifferential Podcast, host Eva Gregory sits down with Kristen Angelica Montgomery to explore identity, reinvention, and what it truly means to begin again — especially when the timing doesn’t look “typical.”Kristen opens up about navigating major life pivots, rebuilding her sense of self, and the quiet (and sometimes uncomfortable) realization that she had outgrown a version of herself she once thought was “enough.” She shares what ultimately gave her permission to pursue racing in her mid-30s, how she learned to trust herself amid uncertainty, and the assumptions she had to unlearn about what was “out of reach” — particularly as a woman entering motorsport later in life.Together, Eva and Kristen talk candidly about stepping into a traditionally male-dominated space, the moments when simply showing up feels like a form of resistance, and the unexpected gifts that come with being new — curiosity, presence, and intuition. Kristen also reflects on how creativity and storytelling weave into her racing journey, and when she realized her voice mattered, even if it didn’t sound like anyone else’s.This conversation goes beyond racing. It’s about mental and emotional resilience, protecting your energy while chasing big dreams, redefining success in the present moment, and honoring where you are — not where you think you “should” be.If you’ve ever felt caught between who you’ve been and who you’re becoming, wondered if it’s “too late” to start something new, or needed reassurance that your path doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s — this episode is for you.Follow Kristen’s journey on Instagram @kristenangelica, and learn more about Foxtecca, her sponsor at https://foxxtecca.com/ Being differential isn’t about arriving; It’s about choosing yourself, again and again.

Breaking into motorsports doesn’t have to mean breaking yourself. In this episode of the Thursday pitstop, host Eva shares personal insights from her own journey navigating burnout, overcommitment, and the pressure to constantly say yes. She discusses the realities of early careers, financial challenges, and the tension between ambition and sustainability — and offers practical perspective on how to be dependable without sacrificing your well-being. Whether you are a student, intern, or early career professional in motorsports or automotive, this episode provides honest conversation, validation, and takeaways to help you set boundaries plan, intentionally, and approach your career with both focus and resilience.

In this episode of The BeDifferential Podcast, we sit down with artist Samantha Zimmermann—whose hyper-realistic automotive paintings are so precise they’re often mistaken for photographs—to explore the intersection of art, engineering, and motorsport history.Growing up in a family immersed in creativity, Samantha shares how that early environment shaped both her artistic eye and her deep connection to racing. From sketching horses as a young artist to discovering a defining moment at the Rolex 24 at Daytona, we trace the path that led her to make motorsport art her life’s work.Samantha walks us through her creative process in detail—from selecting reference images to building layers of oil paint—and explains why oil became her “happy place” for storytelling and realism. We dive into the artistic decisions behind composing racing scenes filled with motion, emotion, and historical context, as well as her enduring fascination with the machines, liveries, and culture of 1970s and ’80s racing.She also reflects on creative growing pains, lessons learned the hard way, and how mentors like fellow artist Kelly Telfer helped shape her career. For emerging artists hoping to turn passion into a profession—especially in niche spaces like automotive and motorsport art—Samantha offers candid advice and encouragement.We wrap with a look at what she’s working on now, plus a fun hypothetical: if Samantha were to design her own race-car livery, what story would it tell?You can find more of Samantha’s work on Instagram at @zimmy_arts or visit her website at samanthazimmermannart.com.