Factory Roles and Becoming a Power Unit Technician

Calum describes factory sub-assembly work, responsibilities for engine assemblies, and progression to senior power unit technician.

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Episode notes

Calum Nicholas has had an inside look at some of the most historic moments of Formula One. The former technician at Red Bull Racing spent over a decade traveling with the team, experiencing some of F1’s most intense seasons and dramatic championships. Now he’s now an ambassador, author of Life in the Pit Lane, and a leading voice in making motorsport more diverse.

In this gripping conversation with Dr. Kristen Holmes, he reveals:

What it’s like working with Max Verstappen behind the scenes
Why F1 pit stops fail and how teams recover
The true toll of the 2021 F1 World Championship fight
How the 2026 F1 regulations will reshape the grid
Red Bull’s strategy for the fastest pit stops in F1
The reality of losing a teammate in Formula One
How to handle pressure and perform when everything is on the line
When we’ll see the next female Formula One driver
If Cadillac made the right driver picks for 2026

Regardless of whether you’re an F1 fan, anyone will be able to appreciate Calum’s wisdom about pressure, purpose, and what it really means to perform at your highest level.

https://www.instagram.com/theline.show

https://www.instagram.com/drkristenholmes

Follow Calum Nicholas here:

https://www.instagram.com/f1mech

Learn more about his recent book: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/life-in-the-pitlane-calum-nicholas/1146330566

(00:00) Introduction

(01:31) From F1 Mechanic to Red Bull Ambassador

(08:11) Marussia and Jules Bianchi's Tragic Death

(12:58) Inside the High-Pressure World of Formula One

(17:31) What Happens When a Pit Stop Goes Wrong?

(21:30) Handling Mistakes and Overcoming Failure in F1

(25:40) Functional Fitness: Physical and Mental Training for F1