MotorVate
A new podcast dedicated to sharing uplifting and inspiring stories from the motorsports, powersports, and auto industrial world. Hosted by Angie Skinner, a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in the motorsports industry, MotorVate aims to engage and motivate listeners through authentic narratives that highlight success, resilience, and passion within the motorsports community. The 1st season will focus on Women with Drive.
Episodes

Monday Dec 02, 2024
Monday Dec 02, 2024
Elizabeth Prestella is one of very few female tire specialists in the motorsports world. Not only can this motorsports unicorn change tires on pit road, but she can also wrench and in her spare time created a clothing line to focus on women in the garage that is rather Torq'd.
Motorvate Episode 9 Summary: Tires, Filters, New Threads…. Oh My! with Elizabeth Prestella In this episode of Motorvate, Angie Skinner dives into the fascinating journey of Elizabeth Prestella, a tire specialist in NASCAR and the founder of a clothing brand designed for women in the automotive world. Elizabeth shares her path to breaking into a male-dominated industry, her experiences working in the NASCAR garage, and her entrepreneurial venture creating durable, functional clothing for women working in motorsports. Her passion for the trade and dedication to self-empowerment shine through as she discusses overcoming obstacles and supporting other women in the industry.
Key Points:
Breaking Into NASCAR: Elizabeth's journey started with a passion for cars and a desire to work on them, which led her to pursue a trade school and take on various automotive jobs before landing an internship in NASCAR.
Pit Crew Experience: After years of changing tires and working with top teams, Elizabeth shares her hands-on experiences in the pit crew, from training for tire changes to working with NASCAR’s top drivers.
Creating a Clothing Line: Elizabeth also launched Torqued, a clothing brand that offers durable, comfortable workwear for women in automotive trades. Her clothing line combines functionality with style, addressing the needs of women in the garage.
Takeaway: Elizabeth's story highlights the power of persistence, resilience, and self-empowerment. She encourages women to embrace their passion for motorsports, break down barriers, and create spaces where they feel comfortable and supported in pursuing their dreams.
#motorvate #podcast #AngieSkinner #NASCAR #ElizabethPrestella #WomenInNASCAR #FemaleTireSpecialist #NASCARPitCrewWomen #WomenInAutomotiveClothing #TorquedClothingBrand #NASCARCareerAdvice #MotorsportsWomenEntrepreneurs #TireChangingNASCAR #NASCARWomenEmpowerment

Monday Dec 02, 2024
Monday Dec 02, 2024
Buckle up for an unmissable episode . Kate Davis' journey expands communications and marketing leadership in both NASCAR and IndyCar. From the fast lanes of stock cars to the adrenaline pumping world of open wheel racing, Kate reveals what it takes to drive brand impact and lead sanctioning bodies in high speed.
Motorvate Episode 8: Driving Success with Kate Davis
In this episode, host Angie Skinner chats with Kate Davis, Director of Communications for IndyCar, about her journey in the motorsports industry. From her early days working in TV production and broadcasting NASCAR highlights, to becoming an influential leader in motorsports media, Kate shares valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in this fast-paced, high-pressure industry. With a career that spans from NASCAR to IndyCar, Kate highlights the importance of relationship-building, staying adaptable, and making a positive impact.
Key Points:
Career Beginnings and Rise: Kate discusses her humble beginnings in TV production and how she carved out a niche in motorsports by leveraging her knowledge of racing to advance in the industry.
The Power of Relationships: Emphasizing the importance of relationships, Kate talks about how networking and integrity have shaped her career, especially as she transitioned from NASCAR to IndyCar.
Overcoming Challenges: Kate reflects on the challenges she faced, including the industry layoffs in 2019, and how perseverance, a positive attitude, and a willingness to help others have been key to her success.
Takeaway: Success in motorsports (and in life) is driven by hard work, adaptability, and the relationships you build. Never be afraid to reach out, ask questions, or take on new challenges—even when the path forward seems uncertain.
#Motorvate #podcast #AngieSkinner #KateDavis #IndyCar #NASCAR #MotorsportsMedia #SportsCommunications #WomenInMotorsports #CareerSuccess #NetworkingInSports #Indy500 #MotorsportsLeadership

Monday Dec 02, 2024
Monday Dec 02, 2024
A deep dive into motorsports journalist Kelly Crandall's unconventional entry into motorsports media through social media and citizen journalism. The setbacks and critics that tried to push her out and how she became her own boss in the media center.
Show Summary:
In Episode 7 of MOTORVATE, Angie Skinner sits down with Kelly Crandall, a passionate motorsports journalist who transformed her love for racing into a thriving career. Kelly discusses her journey from a citizen journalist to a respected media figure in NASCAR and beyond. From early obstacles to breaking into the media center, Kelly’s story showcases the power of determination, social media, and staying true to your passion.
3 Key Points:
The Citizen Journalist Journey: Kelly shares how she started self-publishing on Bleacher Report, leveraging social media to build a portfolio and gain recognition in the motorsports industry.
Overcoming Obstacles and Breaking into the Media Center: Kelly recounts her struggles, including being questioned by more experienced media members, and how she used perseverance to earn her credentials and make a name for herself.
The Role of Social Media in Career Growth: Social media was pivotal in Kelly’s rise, helping her build credibility, connect with influential figures in NASCAR, and expand her media presence.
Takeaway: Kelly Crandall’s story serves as a powerful reminder that success doesn’t happen overnight. With determination, resilience, and the right use of platforms like social media, anyone can turn their passion into a career—even when facing adversity. It’s a testament to the importance of staying true to your vision, working hard, and believing in your own worth.
#Motorvate #podcast #AngieSkinner #CitizenJournalist #KellyCrandall #MotorsportJournalism #NASCARMedia #SocialMediaInMotorsports #MotorsportsPodcast #FemaleMotorsportsJournalist #WomenInNASCAR #MotorsportsMediaCareer #NASCARPodcast #MotorsportCareerAdvice #RacingJournalismTips #EmpoweringWomenInSports

Monday Dec 02, 2024
Monday Dec 02, 2024
The Super Connector in Motorsports Marketing Cindy Sisson shares stories of women who established their own niches and businesses within the motorsports industry, paving the way for future generations.
Motorvate Episode 6 - Create Your Space: Cindy Sisson
Show Summary: In this inspiring episode of Motorvate, host Angie Skinner sits down with Cindy Sisson, Executive Director of Women in Motorsports North America (WIMNA), to discuss how women can carve out their own space in the motorsports industry. Cindy shares her incredible journey, including her early days in motorsports marketing, her work with iconic brands like Gatorade and Ray-Ban, and the innovative programs she has launched to elevate women in motorsports. From her super-connector nickname to her work with major sponsorships, Cindy offers invaluable insights into how networking, advocating, and collaborating can drive success.
Key Points:
The Power of Connection: Cindy's ability to connect people and brands has shaped her career, from building one of the first marketing teams at Roush Racing to securing sponsorships like Ray-Ban for NASCAR drivers.
Breaking Barriers for Women in Motorsports: Cindy discusses her commitment to supporting women in motorsports, from creating educational summits to championing female drivers and professionals at all levels.
Innovative Career Building: Cindy's entrepreneurial mindset has led to unique initiatives, including organizing the first-ever women-only Ferrari test drives and producing award-winning documentaries on female pioneers in motorsports.
Takeaway: Cindy Sisson’s story is a testament to the power of persistence, networking, and giving back. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration and how, by creating opportunities and supporting one another, women can break through barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries like motorsports.
#Motorvate #podcast #AngieSkinner #WomenInMotorsports #CindySisson #WomenInNASCAR #MotorsportsMarketing #WomenRacingDrivers #NetworkingInMotorsports #FemaleEmpowermentInRacing #WomenInSportsLeadership #MotorsportsIndustryCareers #WomensRacingSummit

Monday Dec 02, 2024
Monday Dec 02, 2024
Overcoming setbacks in a male-dominated sport, discussing resilience and the pursuit of personal goals and how to accomplish what YOU want!
Motorvate Episode 5 - Navigate Your Success: Danielle Trotta
Show Summary: In this inspiring episode, Danielle Trotta, a prominent motorsports broadcaster and SiriusXM host, shares her journey of overcoming obstacles, embracing resilience, and navigating success in a male-dominated industry. From her unexpected entry into motorsports to her rise in broadcasting, Danielle emphasizes the importance of preparation, mentorship, and perseverance. She highlights the power of collaboration, staying true to yourself, and the impact of having a support system. A truly motivational conversation about building a career, maintaining confidence, and embracing opportunities even when faced with setbacks.
3 Key Points:
Resilience in the Face of Setbacks: Danielle discusses how she has navigated career changes, personal challenges, and industry hurdles, always returning stronger and more focused on her goals.
The Power of Preparation: Danielle reveals how over-preparing and fully immersing yourself in your field can set you apart, making you ready for any opportunity that comes your way.
Collaborative Success: Danielle stresses the importance of collaboration in the workplace, sharing how listening to others and embracing different perspectives leads to greater success for everyone.
Takeaway: Success in any field requires resilience, determination, and a strong support system. Stay true to your goals, collaborate with others, and never stop believing in your potential.
#DanielleTrotta #Motorsports #FemaleBroadcastersInNASCAR #CareerResilience #WomenInMotorsports #SiriusXM #OvercomingCareerSetbacks #NASCARBroadcasting #FemaleEmpowermentInSportsMedia #MentorshipInMotorsports #NASCARRadio #WomenInSports #BroadcastingCareers #NASCARMedia #MotivationalPodcasts

Monday Dec 02, 2024
Monday Dec 02, 2024
Female motorsports broadcasters who broke barriers in TV and Radio, sharing their journeys and continued success on air. Humorous stories about on air uniforms to rocking a firesuit while pregnant!
Show Summary for "Motorvate Episode 4 - She’s Got the Mic: Jamie Little & Wendy Venturini"
In this episode of Motorvate, host Angie Skinner sits down with two pioneering women in motorsports broadcasting—Jamie Little and Wendy Venturini. Both women have made history by becoming lead announcers in a predominantly male-dominated industry, breaking barriers and defying expectations. Their journey to the top is filled with determination, resilience, and a deep passion for motorsports. Together, they share their stories, challenges, and lessons learned over their impressive 25-year careers. From overcoming gender obstacles to carving their own paths in the broadcast booth, they provide inspiring insights into their careers and the importance of believing in oneself, even when faced with adversity.
Key Points:
Breaking Barriers in Broadcasting: Jamie and Wendy reflect on their journey as the first women to hold lead broadcasting roles in motorsports, navigating challenges such as being underestimated and battling industry norms.
The Role of Mentorship: Both women share stories of the influential mentors who helped them along the way, including Benny Parsons for Wendy and Lee Dwyer for Jamie, and how those pivotal moments shaped their careers.
Overcoming Doubts and Fear: The episode emphasizes the importance of pushing through self-doubt and fear, with both Jamie and Wendy admitting to moments of impostor syndrome but ultimately finding confidence through persistence and hard work.
Takeaway:The episode highlights the power of determination and believing in oneself. Both Jamie and Wendy encourage listeners—especially women—to embrace opportunities, face challenges head-on, and remember that persistence and passion will always pave the way for success.
#WomenInMotorsportsBroadcasting #FemaleAnnouncersInNASCAR #JamieLittleNASCAR#WendyVenturiniMotorsports #WomenBreakingBarriersInRacing #WomenInMotorsports#NASCarBroadcastingPioneers #FemaleBroadcastersInRacing #WomenInSportsMedia#GenderEqualityInMotorsports #MotorsportsPodcast #LeadershipInMotorsports #Motorvate #AngieSkinner #podcast

Monday Nov 18, 2024
Monday Nov 18, 2024
A quick teaser clip into what you can expect from the 1st season of MotorVate!

Monday Nov 18, 2024
Monday Nov 18, 2024
The CEO of JR. Motorsports Kelley Earnhardt Miller. Insights into managing drivers and teams as a female leader. Navigating family dynamics, and overcoming media challenges.
Show Summary:In Motorvate Episode 2: Boss Lady - Kelley Earnhardt Miller, Kelley Earnhardt Miller, CEO of Junior Motorsports, shares insights into her career, leadership, and the challenges of balancing family with a high-pressure business. Kelley opens up about her upbringing in the racing world, the importance of hard work, and maintaining professionalism in a male-dominated industry. She discusses the complexities of working with her brother Dale Jr., the need for grace and confidence, and how she's navigating her evolving role as both a leader and a mother. From breaking stereotypes to fostering mentorship, Kelley’s story is one of resilience, family, and pushing boundaries.
Key Points:1. Professionalism and Accountability: Kelley emphasizes the value of working under others early in her career to learn accountability and professionalism, preparing her for leadership roles in a competitive environment.2. Grace and Confidence in Leadership: Despite the challenges of working in a male-dominated industry, Kelley stresses the importance of leading with grace, confidence, and authenticity, while maintaining strong relationships and support networks.3. Family and Business Balance: Kelley discusses the challenges and rewards of managing a family business, particularly working with her brother Dale Jr., while navigating the dynamics of growing families and professional responsibilities.
Takeaway: Kelley’s journey demonstrates that true leadership is about mentorship, being present in the moment, and balancing personal and professional life with grace and confidence. The ability to remain authentic while breaking down barriers is key to success in both business and life.
#KelleyEarnhardtMiller #NASCARleadership #womeninNASCAR #JuniorMotorsports #JRMotorsports #DaleJr #Earnhardt #femaleCEOINmotorsport #womeninracing#NASCARfamilybusiness #KelleyEarnhardtInterview #leadershipinmotorsport #DaleEarnhardt #womeninbusiness #managingfamilybusiness #leadershiplessonsfromKelleyEarnhardt#femaleentrepreneursinmotorsports #breakingstereotypesinbusiness #NASCARindustryleaders#womanceostories #familydynamicsinbusiness- - - - -
#Motorvate #podcast #AngieSkinner #getmotivated #motivationalpodcast #sportspodcast #womeninspiringwomen #womeninsports #womenwithdrive #motorsports #powersports #autoindustry #MotorvatePodcast #LeadershipPodcast #womenwithdrivepodcast#inspiringwomenleaders #motorsportleaderspodcast #femaleentrepreneurspodcast#empoweringwomeninbusiness #Leadershipandmentorship #professionalgrowthforwomen #breakingbarrierspodcast #successfulwomenstories #careergrowthandleadership #womensprofessionalnetwork #businessleadershiplessons

Monday Nov 18, 2024
Monday Nov 18, 2024
Trailblazing women who reported from NASCAR garages, sharing their experiences entering male-dominated media centers and pit roads. Featuring Deb Williams and Lee Spencer.
Show Summary:In Motorvate Episode 3 - Leading Ladies in Motorsports, Angie welcomes two trailblazing women in motorsports media: Deb Williams and Lee Spencer. Both women have overcome significant barriers to become respected figures in the NASCAR world, paving the way for future generations of women in the sport. Throughout the episode, Deb and Lee share their unique stories of how they entered motorsports, the challenges they faced as women in a male-dominated industry, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. From building credibility and trust in the garage to adapting to the modern demands of media and social media, their experiences highlight the dedication and resilience required to succeed in the fast-paced world of NASCAR.
3 Key Points:
1. Building Trust and Credibility: Both Deb and Lee discuss how trust was earned in the NASCAR garage, particularly as women in a male-dominated field. The importance of professionalism, confidence, and building relationships with drivers, PR reps, and team members played a key role in their success.2. Breaking Barriers for Women in Motorsports Media: In the early years, women weren’t welcomed in the garage, and it was tough for Deb and Lee to be taken seriously. However, they managed to carve out their place by focusing on their skills, being relentless in their pursuit of stories, and showing that they were reporters first, regardless of gender.3. Navigating Modern Media and Social Media: The landscape of motorsports media has shifted dramatically with the rise of social media and the democratization of journalism. Deb and Lee reflect on how the speed of social media affects traditional journalism and the challenges of balancing the pursuit of quick clicks with the integrity of getting the facts right.
Takeaway:The takeaway from this episode is the value of persistence, professionalism, and adaptability. Deb and Lee's journeys demonstrate that success in motorsports media isn’t just about breaking into the field; it’s about earning respect, building trust, and staying true to your craft, even in the face of adversity and changing media landscapes. They prove that hard work and integrity are key ingredients for any woman (or man) looking to succeed in a competitive and evolving industry.
#WomenInMotorsports #WomenInNASCAR #MotorsportsJournalism #LeadingLadiesInRacing#NASCARMediaCareers #BreakingBarriersInNASCAR #NASCARMediaHistory#FemaleMotorsportsReporters #TrustAndCredibilityInNASCAR #WomenInRacingMedia #LeadingLadiesInMotorsports, #WomenInRacing, #MotorsportLeadersPodcast, #FemaleLeadershipInMotorsports, #NASCARWomen, #WomenEmpowermentInRacing, #InspiringWomenInMotorsports, #WomenInSports, #FemaleJournalistsInMotorsports, #NASCARHistoryAndLegacy, #GenderEqualityInSports, #WomenInMotorsportMedia, #BreakingBarriersInRacing, #MotorsportsIndustryWomen, #WomenInMotorsportsLeadership
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#Motorvate #podcast #AngieSkinner #getmotivated #motivationalpodcast #sportspodcast #womeninspiringwomen #womeninsports #womenwithdrive #motorsports #powersports #autoindustry #MotorvatePodcast #LeadershipPodcast #womenwithdrivepodcast#inspiringwomenleaders #motorsportleaderspodcast #femaleentrepreneurspodcast#empoweringwomeninbusiness #Leadershipandmentorship #professionalgrowthforwomen #breakingbarrierspodcast #successfulwomenstories #careergrowthandleadership #womensprofessionalnetwork #businessleadershiplessons

Monday Nov 18, 2024
Monday Nov 18, 2024
Featuring Hendrick Motorsports Director of Competition Systems. How a student from Puerto Rico with dreams to be an astronaut became one of NASCAR's most respected engineer in the garage and has maintained that distinctive description by tenacity and helping others in the space.
Show Summary:In the debut episode of Motorvate, host Angela Skinner interviews Alba Colón, the Director of Competition Systems at Hendrick Motorsports. With 30 years of experience in NASCAR, Colón discusses her journey from growing up in Puerto Rico with aspirations to be an astronaut to becoming a pioneering engineer in a male-dominated sport. She shares her insights on overcoming challenges, the evolving diversity in motorsports, and her passion for helping others succeed. Colón also highlights the importance of hard work, collaboration, and continuous learning in the fast-paced world of NASCAR engineering.
Key Points:1. Overcoming Early Challenges: Alba reflects on her early days in NASCAR when she was one of the few women and Hispanics in the sport. Her journey was shaped by perseverance, earning respect through hard work and dedication.2. Diversity and Inclusion in Motorsports: The episode emphasizes the growing diversity in NASCAR, with more women, Hispanic, and African-American figures emerging in engineering, team roles, and as drivers. Colón advocates for ongoing efforts to bring diverse perspectives into the sport.3. Adapting to Technological Advancements: Colón discusses how the role of engineers has evolved with new technologies like data acquisition and simulation. Today’s drivers, she explains, are more reliant on data to optimize performance, a shift that has revolutionized the sport.
Takeaway:Alba Colón’s journey is a powerful reminder that success in motorsports, or any field, comes from hard work, adaptability, and the willingness to break barriers. Her story shows the importance of embracing new opportunities and supporting others, particularly women, in their pursuit of careers in traditionally male-dominated industries.
#AlbaColon #womeninNASCAR #womeninmotorsports #womenengineersinracing#HendrickMotorsports #femaleengineersinmotorsports #LatinaengineersinNASCAR#womenbreakingbarriersinmotorsports #motorsportsengineering #NASCARdiversity#empoweringwomeninracing #femalerolemodelsinmotorsports #DiversityinNASCAR#NASCARcareeradvice #HispanicengineersinNASCAR #womenleadershipinmotorsports#NASCARengineeringcareers #womenintechandmotorsports #inspiringwomenstories#breakingstereotypesinmotorsports #womenovercomingadversityinNASCAR#NASCARengineerinterviews #womeninSTEMcareers- - - - -