417: Put Your Helmet on and Take Some Risks. With Danica Patrick
Dec 20, 2023
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Danica Patrick, former racecar driver and TIME's "100 Most Influential People", discusses her experiences in the racing world, the dangers she faced, and the impact of witnessing fatal accidents. She also talks about the safety measures in racing cars, transitioning between different cars in racing, and her early career in the Toyota Atlantic series. Additionally, she shares anecdotes about living and partying in England, experiences outside of racing, achievements and challenges in car racing, and the importance of mindset on physical fitness. Finally, she discusses starting a vineyard, the pressure and stress of racing, and various topics such as cricket, coffee, and sponsors.
Danica Patrick broke barriers and achieved great success as a female racecar driver in the male-dominated world of professional motorsports.
She faced challenges and setbacks throughout her racing career, but her determination and talent led to numerous achievements and milestones.
Danica's transition from IndyCar to NASCAR opened up new opportunities and showcased her skills in stock car racing.
The podcast episode explores Danica's journey of finding new passions and interests after retiring from full-time racing.
Danica shares insights into her fitness journey, including her experiences with body image, the importance of rest and recovery, and the impact of nutrition on overall health and fitness.
Deep dives
Racing in England and Living on Her Own
Danica Patrick moves to England at 16 years old to pursue her racing career. She lives and races there for three years, competing in a minor league series. She navigates the challenges of being a teenager on her own, exploring the local scene and immersing herself in the sport.
Opportunities and Challenges
During her time in England, Danica secures sponsorship from Ford and impresses with her driving abilities. However, she also faces the reality of being a young, female driver in a male-dominated industry. She experiences both success and setbacks, and the path to recognition and top-level opportunities is not easy.
Transition Back to America and Car Racing
After returning to the United States, Danica seeks opportunities to continue her racing career. She tests a BMW sports car and impresses by outperforming the main driver. Although the car is later deemed illegal due to an engine discrepancy, her performance opens doors for potential rides in the future. Danica faces challenges and uncertainties during this transitional period.
Achievements and Breakthroughs
In the podcast episode, the speaker discusses various achievements, breakthroughs, and milestones in the podcaster's racing career. This includes becoming the first woman to win a top-level sanction open-wheel car racing event, as well as being named Rookie of the Year. The speaker also mentions the coverage received from Sports Illustrated and other media outlets.
Challenges and Controversies
The podcast episode highlights some of the challenges and controversies faced by the podcaster. This includes collisions, crashes, clashes with other drivers, and heated moments on and off the track. The speaker also emphasizes the authenticity and outspoken nature of the podcaster, which sometimes led to disagreements and criticism from others.
Transition to NASCAR and Stock Car Racing
The podcast episode touches upon the podcaster's transition from IndyCar to NASCAR and stock car racing. It mentions the decision to explore new opportunities, race in different series, and compete in events like the Daytona 500 and the 24 Hours of Daytona. The speaker also hints at the podcaster's success and achievements in stock car racing.
Transition from intense racing to finding new passions
Danica Patrick discusses her decision to retire from full-time racing and explores her journey of finding new passions and interests after leaving the racing industry.
Challenges and lessons learned in the fitness industry
Danica Patrick reflects on her fitness journey, from focusing on long cardio workouts to adopting high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and weightlifting. She shares her experiences with body image, the importance of rest and recovery, and the impact of nutrition on overall health and fitness.
Personal growth and health setbacks
Danica Patrick details her struggles with health issues and personal growth, including toxic breast implants, gut health problems, and imbalanced hormones. She explains how she addressed these issues through diet changes, rest, and a more balanced approach to fitness and lifestyle.
Danica Patrick's Journey to Success
Danica Patrick shares her journey in racing and the challenges she faced along the way. She talks about the pressure she felt as a highly hyped racer and discusses how she dealt with fear and self-doubt. Danica also highlights the importance of accountability and the power of thoughts and mindset in achieving success. She shares personal insights into her post-racing life, including her ventures in winemaking and podcasting. Overall, Danica's story is one of perseverance, self-discovery, and continuously striving to be the best.
As a racecar driver, Danica Patrick broke barriers and set records with her on-track performance. With her racing career behind her, Danica looks to her next chapter as she focuses on her passions: good food, great wine, fitness and helping others achieve their goals.
Danica joined the mainstream ranks by succeeding in the male-dominated world of professional motorsports. Danica was named to TIME’s “100 Most Influential People” list, has graced the cover of many prestigious publications and was featured in pictorials in the 2008 and 2009 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. She has appeared in a record-setting 14 Super Bowl commercials
