The Pits Are Open Podcast
The Pits Are Open
Updated 9 days agoThe pit stop is vital to every race team’s success. Refuel, change all four tires, and make the necessary adjustments to get through the race. Join us for YOUR midweek pit stop LIVE every Wednesday at 4 PM on YouTube, or listen anytime on Spotify! Will Marotti, lifelong racing fanatic turned Indy 500 co-entrant discusses current events in American racing, shares insights from the track, and offers his unique perspective—not just as a fan, but as a participant!
Are you the creator? Claim this podcast
Episodes (65)
Penske Penalties Rock Indy 500, Jagger Jones Interview, and Robert Shwartzman’s Pole
In this explosive episode of The Pits Are Open, host Will Marotti tackles the biggest controversy of the 2024 racing season: the Team Penske technical violation scandal that shook qualifying for the Indianapolis 500. From the rear wing attenuator seam violations to the fallout for Roger Penske’s leadership, this episode dives deep into the ethics, optics, and consequences of rule-breaking at the highest level of motorsport.---Featured Guest:✅ Jagger Jones (IMSA Champion & Grandson of Parnelli Jones) – Joins the show to share his story of navigating motorsports as a legacy name, his path from karting to NASCAR to open-wheel, and how he's finding success today in IMSA sports cars. He talks candidly about funding challenges, switching disciplines, and his aspirations to race in Le Mans and the Indy 500.---Major Talking Points:Robert Shwartzman Makes History – The Israeli rookie claims pole in his first-ever oval race with PREMA RacingPenske Scandal Breakdown – What the attenuator seam violation means, how Marshall Pruett uncovered it, and why Joseph Newgarden’s 2023 win may be under questionDoug Boles’ Press Conference – Full recap of how the IndyCar President handled the situation with transparency and classPato O’Ward Reacts – Why the Arrow McLaren driver called for harsher penaltiesChip Ganassi’s Perspective – Comments on integrity, Penske’s legacy, and fairness in motorsportPenske Fires Top Officials – Tim Cindric, Ron Ruzewski, and Kyle Moyer ousted following internal reviewShould Last Year’s Win Be Stripped? – The debate over retroactive penalties and competitive fairnessIndy 500 Grid Shakeup – Why Newgarden and Power are starting 32nd and 33rdJagger Jones Career Journey – From the grandson of a legend to a rising star carving his own path---Also Featured:Spirit of Speedway and Cat’s Magic Helmet children’s books for young racing fansSneak peek at Trans Am and IMSA coverage this weekend on SpeedSport1Updates on the new Pits Are Open YouTube channel and merch availability---Watch & Listen:YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, TikTokSubscribe to the newsletter at thepitsareopen.com for exclusive updates and giveawaysFollow us on social for bonus content and behind-the-scenes access
Indy Practice Updates, Simon Sykes Interview & Catherine Legge on NASCAR, Pikes Peak, and Elf Sponsorship
Featured Guests:✅ Simon Sykes (2023 USF2000 Champion) – Simon joins the show to talk about returning to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, testing with Sarah Fisher Hartman Racing, and the path from karting to IndyCar. He reflects on his first-ever race at IMS with Marotti Autosport, shares his experience in SCCA and USF Pro, and offers candid advice for young drivers trying to fund their racing dreams.✅ Catherine Legge (Veteran IndyCar Driver & NASCAR Competitor) – In a candid and wide-ranging interview, Catherine opens up about her diverse motorsports career—racing everything from IndyCars and GTs to sprint cars and Pikes Peak. She shares how her partnership with e.l.f. Cosmetics has empowered women in racing, why Talladega was the most fun she’s ever had in a car, and how she’s preparing for NASCAR’s Coca-Cola 600 and a return to the grueling Pikes Peak climb.---Key Topics Covered:Indy 500 Practice Report – Weather delays, team updates, and hybrid system testingRacing on a Budget – Simon Sykes on family support, driving for Greg Rice, and funding tipsTransitioning to NASCAR – Catherine’s take on learning stock cars, drafting, and pit strategyThe Elf Effect – How a beauty brand changed the narrative for female drivers in motorsportsWomen in Racing – Balancing professionalism with authenticity and visibilityBucket List Races – Catherine’s dream of competing at Bathurst, Daytona 500, Le Mans & moreChildren’s Books & Podcasts – Spirit of Speedway and Cat’s Magic Helmet inspire the next generation---Subscribe & Support:Watch full episodes on YouTube (@ThePitsAreOpenPodcast)Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platformsSign up at thepitsareopen.com to receive our free newsletter, giveaways, and updatesCheck out Catherine Legge’s podcast Throttle Therapy, and children’s book Cat’s Magic Helmet
Brad Hayes on Kenyan Midgets, Megan Meyer on Sponsorship & NHRA Comeback
Featured Guests:✅ Brad Hayes (Owner, Brad Hayes Racing & Kenyan Midget Series) – Brad shares his journey from Formula Ford driver to team owner and racing series operator. Learn how the Kenyan Midget Series is shaping the next generation of drivers with a cost-effective, spec-style development platform. Brad explains how the series works, how drivers can get involved for under $15,000 per season, and why it's a powerful stepping stone for teens coming out of karting.✅ Megan Meyer (Two-Time NHRA Champion & Founder, MotorsportsMarketingTips.com) – A returning guest and racing powerhouse, Megan talks about preparing for her Top Alcohol Dragster shootout, how it feels to hit 285 MPH, and why social media is essential for young drivers. She walks through the first steps of sponsorship outreach, how to build your brand, and what her upcoming Field & Funded coaching program offers for racers seeking funding.---Key Topics Covered:McLaren’s Top-10 Performance in F1 & IndyCarThe Hybrid Debate: Has IndyCar’s new system made racing more boring?How the Kenyan Midget Series Balances Cost & CompetitionRental Car Opportunities for New Drivers (Ages 12+)The Business of Running a Racing SeriesSocial Media for Racers: Instagram, TikTok, Facebook & LinkedIn strategiesHow to Pitch Sponsors the Right Way: Megan’s proven “rule of 7” methodField & Funded Coaching Program Opens in June---Follow & Support:Watch on YouTube (@ThePitsAreOpenPodcast) – Now on our new channel!Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platformsSubscribe to the newsletter at thepitsareopen.comExplore Megan’s resources at motorsportsmarketingtips.com
Hybrid Testing at IMS, Kyle Larson's IndyCar Future, & David Land Talks Indy 500 Drama
In this loaded episode of The Pits Are Open, host Will Marotti is joined by IndyStar’s Nathan Brown and motorsports content creator David Land to break down the latest from Indianapolis—including test day developments, driver crashes, and the evolving impact of hybrid systems on IndyCar.---Featured Guests:✅ Nathan Brown (Motorsports Reporter, IndyStar) – Gives a detailed recap of IndyCar testing at IMS, including hybrid reliability issues, speed trade-offs, and the implications for qualifying and race strategy at the Indy 500. Nathan also explains the current chassis shortage and reflects on the absence of female drivers this year.✅ David Land (YouTuber, DL500 Club Host, Co-Host of Unverified) – Offers sharp commentary on Kyle Larson’s uncertain Indy 500 future, hybrid performance concerns, and whether Penske’s McLaughlin is the true favorite this year. David also shares behind-the-scenes insights on the revamped IMS Museum, the month of May media grind, and what it takes to break into racing media through content creation.---Key Topics Covered:Hybrid System Impact: How 100 extra pounds and 60 HP boost could change late-race strategyTakuma Sato & Kyle Larson Crashes: What went wrong and why Sato’s backup car could struggleChassis Shortage & Female Driver Absence: Why Katherine Legge isn’t on the 2024 grid and what it means for future diversityKyle Larson’s Comments: Why he might not return to the Indy 500 for another 15+ yearsPenske & Chevy Sandbagging?: Why experts think Penske hasn’t shown their hand yetBarber GP Preview: Can McLaughlin three-peat? Will Fox improve its broadcast?The New IMS Museum: A “must-visit” emotional experience every racing fan should see---Bonus Mentions:Spirit of Speedway children's book now available on thepitsareopen.comTrans Am Series on SpeedSport1 this weekendDavid Land on YouTube and Patreon (DL500 Club)---Watch & Listen:YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and TikTokSign up for the newsletter at thepitsareopen.comLeave a voice message right on the homepage and join the show
IndyCar Test Day at IMS, F1 Drama Recap, and Hybrid Tech Breakdown
In this on-the-ground episode of The Pits Are Open, host Will Marotti brings you live to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for IndyCar testing, while Alex holds down the studio with a sharp recap of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and the evolving 2025 F1 season.---Highlights from This Episode:✅ Live from IMS – Will reports directly from Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s first open test of the season, sharing insights on how the new hybrid power unit is impacting car weight, balance, and speed, plus what drivers are learning ahead of the Indy 500.✅ F1 Saudi Arabia Grand Prix Recap – Alex breaks down Oscar Piastri’s huge win, Max Verstappen’s costly penalty, and why every Formula 1 team already scoring points could signal the end of Red Bull’s dominance.✅ Why Hybrid Tech Matters – We explore how the extra 100 pounds from IndyCar’s upcoming hybrid systems is changing the driving experience and what that means for qualifying and top-end performance.✅ Helmet Cams & Driver Fitness – Comparing IndyCar and F1 technology, this episode covers in-car camera perspectives, driver neck training, brake force challenges, and the physical demands of elite-level open-wheel racing.✅ Exclusive On-Track Footage – Get the closest view yet of cars flying by on test day, plus commentary on team strategies, fan experience, and what to expect heading into May.---Also Mentioned:McLaren rising in F1: Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri in contentionAlpine and Williams progressUpcoming Guests: Nathan Brown (IndyStar) & David Land (IndyCar YouTuber) join the next episodeSpirit of Speedway Book GiveawaySupport the Show: Subscribe, comment, and share to grow the motorsports community---Watch & Listen:YouTube, Spotify, Apple PodcastsVisit thepitsareopen.com to sign up for the newsletter and win a personalized copy of Spirit of Speedway
Ralph Sheheen on FAST TV, Tony Stewart's NHRA Milestone, & IndyCar's Long Beach Crisis
In this episode of The Pits Are Open, host Will Marotti brings the heat with two powerhouse guests and a brutally honest conversation on the future of American motorsports. From the broadcast blackout and plummeting IndyCar ratings to Tony Stewart’s historic NHRA win, this episode doesn’t hold back.---Featured Guests:✅ Ralph Sheheen (Broadcasting Legend, Co-Owner of SpeedSport) – Shares SpeedSport’s evolution into a 200M-user FAST channel, reflects on calling F1 in Monaco and swamp buggies in Florida, and explains how free ad-supported TV could save grassroots racing.✅ Tony Donohue (Host, The Tony D Podcast & Unverified with David Land) – Breaks down IndyCar’s TV disaster at Long Beach, questions leadership at the top, and explains why inconsistent liveries, marketing apathy, and a lack of youth engagement are strangling the sport’s growth.---Key Topics Covered:Tony Stewart's Vegas Win: The only driver to win in IndyCar, NASCAR, USAC, and NHRAKyle Larson Dominates Bristol: A win dedicated to late PR legend John EdwardsIndyCar's Broadcast Breakdown: Why FOX blacked out, and how fans reactedLong Beach Grand Prix TV Ratings: Huge crowd, embarrassing viewership—what went wrong?IndyCar’s Identity Crisis: Why driver branding, merchandise, and fan experience are failingGrassroots Revival: Why SpeedSport1’s FAST network could be the future of motorsports mediaSpirit of Speedway Brick Reveal: A personal and emotional moment at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway---Subscribe & Support:Watch on YouTube, Facebook, and TikTokListen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platformsVisit thepitsareopen.com to sign up for the newsletter, order Spirit of Speedway, or enter this week’s giveaway
Long Beach Grand Prix Preview, Racing History, and Sponsorship Wisdom
In this episode of The Pits Are Open, host Will Marotti delivers a dynamic mix of racing insight, legendary motorsports stories, and powerful business wisdom from two iconic guests. From the 50th anniversary of the Long Beach Grand Prix to smart strategies for securing sponsorships, this episode is packed with value for racing fans and industry insiders alike.Featured Guests:✅ Kurt Hansen – Veteran racer, broadcaster, and host of Race Central TV, Kurt shares incredible stories from his days driving Formula Atlantic, racing the Baja 1000 and Pikes Peak, and transitioning into a broadcasting career with ESPN and CBS. He previews the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, reflects on its historic origins in Formula 5000, and shares why it’s become the “Monaco” of American open-wheel racing.✅ JP Murray – Sponsorship strategist and founder of JP Murray Racing, JP returns to discuss how drivers and teams can authentically market themselves, develop strong sponsor relationships, and leverage platforms like LinkedIn for business growth. He also talks about working with Santino Ferrucci, Brady Bacon, and Taylor Reimer across different series—from IndyCar to sprint cars to ARCA.---Also in This Episode:Remembering Shigeaki Hattori, former IndyCar driver and NASCAR Truck Series champion team ownerFirst-hand reaction to the newly renovated IMS Museum, including emotional multimedia displays and the AJ Foyt exhibitA look at the children’s book Spirit of Speedway and how it’s inspiring the next generation of fansA special newsletter giveaway for listeners who sign up at thepitsareopen.com---Subscribe & Support:Watch on YouTube, Facebook, TikTokListen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platformsSign up for the newsletter at thepitsareopen.com for race previews, sponsor features, and exclusive giveaways
Vintage Indy History, Dan Gurney’s Eagles, and Racing with Christian Rasmussen
In this special on-the-road edition of The Pits Are Open, host Will Marotti heads to Indianapolis for a behind-the-scenes tour of historic race cars, legendary engines, and an inside look at the business of modern IndyCar racing.Featured Guests:✅ Mike Lashmett (Founder, Vintage Indy) – Takes us on a guided tour through a museum of open-wheel racing history. From Mario Andretti’s 1969 Indy 500-winning engine to the infamous “Mystery Eagle” driven by Jerry Grant, Mike shares amazing stories, vintage memorabilia, and how Vintage Indy keeps racing history alive.✅ Christian Rasmussen (Driver, Ed Carpenter Racing) – The rising IndyCar star opens up about his journey from karting in Denmark to the NTT IndyCar Series, what it was like driving at the Indy 500 for the first time, and how he’s preparing for a breakout season.✅ Wes Zirkle (Attorney & Motorsports Marketing Expert) – Discusses the business side of racing, including sponsorship strategy, branding, and navigating contracts. Wes and Will also break down the reality of funding for young drivers and what makes Christian’s brand stand out.---What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The legacy of Dan Gurney’s AAR Eagles and the story behind Sweet Savage’s STP carWhy 1973 was one of the darkest years in Indy 500 historyWhat it’s like to qualify for the Indy 500 – from rookie orientation to 240+ MPH lapsBehind the scenes with Vintage Indy’s event schedule, car registry, and sponsorship modelHow Christian Rasmussen is building his racing brand on and off the trackPro tips for young racers navigating sponsorships and investor-backed deals---Want more?Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, and all major podcast platformsVisit thepitsareopen.com for the latest news, newsletter sign-up, and voice messagesFollow us on TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram for exclusive behind-the-scenes content
Thermal Blackout, IndyCar Drama & Inside the New IMS Museum
In this packed episode of The Pits Are Open, host Will Marotti dives into the controversy at the IndyCar Thermal Club race, the state of TV coverage on FOX, and an exclusive first look inside the completely renovated Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum.Special Guests:✅ Tony Donahue (Motorsports Podcaster & Broadcaster) – Shares his take on the 15-minute FOX broadcast blackout, thermal racing logistics, driver drama (including Pato O’Ward’s fiery comments), and the debate over whether IndyCar really needs a new chassis. He also previews what's to come in the 2024 IndyCar season and talks about rising stars and the challenges of attracting fans.✅ Jason Van Sickle (VP of Curation & Education, IMS Museum) – Offers a sneak peek into the $90 million museum renovation, including high-tech upgrades, new interactive exhibits, rare Team Penske cars, a Brickyard 400 tribute, and historic winning cars. Learn how the revamped museum brings Indy 500 history to life—and why it’s a must-visit for racing fans.Highlights from this episode:FOX blackout and broadcast challenges during the Thermal Club racePato O’Ward vs. Chevy teams: Was his rant justified?Should IndyCar build a new car? Tony and Will weigh the pros and consBehind the scenes of the IMS Museum renovationSimulators, historic race cars, and family-friendly upgrades at the new museumThe Spirit of Speedway book and why IndyCar needs to connect with young fansSubscribe and Follow:Watch on YouTubeListen on Spotify and all major podcast platformsVisit thepitsareopen.com to sign up for our newsletter, leave a voice message, or check out the latest episode
Race Graphics, Team Ownership, and Thermal Club Preview
In this episode of The Pits Are Open, host Will Marotti welcomes two dynamic guests for a deep dive into the world of motorsports branding, team ownership, and upcoming IndyCar action at Thermal Club. Whether you’re a young driver, a small team, or a fan of behind-the-scenes racing business, this one’s packed with valuable insight.Featured Guests:✅ Brent Cox (Owner, Abacus Racing) – Shares what it’s like to own a successful USAC race team, how he built a championship program, and what it takes to work with elite drivers like Logan Seavey, Santino Ferrucci, and Catherine Legg. Brent also explains his long-term dream of reaching the Indianapolis 500 and what it takes to run a financially sustainable race team.✅ Ben Porter (Founder, Redline Ace) – A top motorsports graphic designer, Ben talks about the importance of professional branding for drivers and teams, including logo design, race liveries, and sponsorship decks. He also shares stories from working with Mazda MX-5 Cup, Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, and the creation of the Spirit of Speedway identity.Also in this episode:IndyCar at Thermal Club – Why Will’s not sold on it, and how IndyCar is trying to connect with ultra-high-net-worth individuals.IMSA Pulls Endurance Race from Indy – What this means for the future of sports car racing at the Brickyard.Social Media Strategy Tips – Why branding and consistency matter now more than ever for up-and-coming drivers.Spirit of Speedway Book Promo – A children’s book to inspire the next generation of IndyCar fans.📩 Get exclusive motorsports news & a preview of upcoming episodes by signing up for our free newsletter at thepitsareopen.com.💬 Have a question or comment? Leave us a voice message directly on the site!🎥 Watch now on YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok, or listen wherever you get your podcasts.
IndyCar & NHRA Insights, SpeedSport Evolution & Sponsorship Secrets
🏎️ In this episode of The Pits Are Open, host Will Marotti is joined by two incredible guests as they explore IndyCar updates, NHRA racing, motorsports marketing, and the evolution of SpeedSport.✅ Joe Tripp (CEO & Managing Partner of SpeedSport) – Talks about the transformation of SpeedSport, the rise of SpeedSport One, the future of digital motorsports content, and why FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) is the next big thing in racing coverage.✅ Megan Meyer (Two-Time NHRA Top Alcohol Dragster Champion & Motorsports Marketing Expert) – Shares insights on how young drivers and teams can build their brands, secure sponsorships, and leverage social media for racing success. Megan also discusses her upcoming race at the Top Alcohol Dragster Shootout and her work at MotorsportsMarketingTips.com.📢 Topics Covered:Takuma Sato’s Return to the Indy 500 & the latest IndyCar driver developments.NHRA Updates & Racing Controversies: Bob Tasca’s viral rant and what it means for drag racing’s media presence.The Evolution of SpeedSport: How a motorsports news giant is adapting to the digital era.Sponsorship & Marketing Strategies: Practical tips for racers on branding, social media, and securing deals.🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, and all major platforms!📩 Sign up for our free newsletter at thepitsareopen.com for exclusive content and guest updates.💬 Join the conversation—like, comment, and share!🎥 Watch the full episode now!
Saint Pete IndyCar Recap, Sponsorship Strategies & Insider Insights
🏎️ In this episode of The Pits Are Open, host Will Marotti breaks down the latest in IndyCar racing, sponsorship strategies, and industry trends with two powerhouse guests:✅ Tony Donahue (Tony D Podcast) – Longtime Indianapolis radio personality and motorsports expert recaps the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, breaking down Fox’s debut IndyCar coverage, top driver performances, and championship predictions.✅ Kim Skildum-Reid (Sponsorship Guru & Author) – One of the world's leading sponsorship experts reveals the secrets to securing motorsports funding, how sponsorship has evolved, and why sticker-on-the-car deals don’t cut it anymore. If you’re a young driver, small team, or looking to land major sponsors, this is a must-listen!📢 Topics Covered:IndyCar Season Opener Breakdown: Top moments, standout performances, and ratings impact.Sponsorship Strategies That Work: How teams can leverage engagement instead of just exposure.Fox Sports’ First IndyCar Broadcast: What they got right and where they need improvement.Future of IndyCar Marketing: Insights into driver branding, sponsorship activations, and industry trends.🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, and all major platforms!📩 Sign up for our free newsletter at thepitsareopen.com for exclusive content and guest updates.💬 Join the conversation—like, comment, and share!🎥 Watch the full episode now!
Sponsorship Secrets, IndyCar Updates & Saint Pete Preview
🏁 In this episode of The Pits Are Open, host Will Marotti dives into the latest motorsports news, including:✅ Inside IndyCar: A deep dive into the 2025 NTT IndyCar season, sponsorship challenges, and the impact of the latest driver and team developments.✅ Exclusive Interview with JP Moery: Sponsorship expert JP Moery shares his proven strategies for securing motorsports funding, from building relationships to crafting the perfect pitch. If you're a driver, team, or fan of racing business, you won’t want to miss this!✅ Saint Petersburg Grand Prix Preview: Nathan Brown, IndyCar reporter for the Indianapolis Star, gives his insider analysis on what to expect at the first race of the season.🎧 Tune in to stay ahead in the racing world—whether you're a fan, driver, or looking to break into the motorsports industry.💬 Like, comment, and subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, and all major platforms!📢 Follow us on TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube for exclusive content.🌎 Visit thepitsareopen.com to sign up for our newsletter and send us voice messages!🎥 Watch now & listen on Spotify, YouTube, and more!
Motorsports is Expensive | How to get sponsors Pt. 1
Special guest Alex Striler shares his expertise and advice on approaching sponsorship.
The Pits Are Open | Why do we close the pits?
The first episode of The Pits Are Open featuring discussion about the Daytona 500, IndyCar Super Bowl Commercials, Big Staffing Changes at IndyCar and special Guest Mike Lashmett, President of VintageIndy.