Dirt Track Confessions

Most people think confidence comes first. They think the successful people, the business owners, the content creators, and the people chasing big goals all started out believing in themselves. The truth? Most of them were terrified. In this episode, Mandee breaks down what confidence actually is, where it comes from, and why waiting to feel ready might be the very thing holding you back. We’ll tal...

This episode we’re doing something a little different. Mike and Mandee are playing Finish the Sentence: Racing Couple Edition and neither of us saw the questions beforehand. From race shop life and marriage to parenting at the racetrack, race-day frustrations, funny stories, and a few questions that may or may not have started an disagreement… we’re finishing the sentences and sharing the first an...

I know I know... cliche Mandee. We know you can't grow in your comfort zone. Do you though? Because if you're reading this then that tells me you need this...

What actually makes a racetrack good? Jamie Friesen breaks down the science, strategy, and misconceptions behind track prep — from moisture and temperatures to how surfaces change throughout the night. Plus, he shares stories from a lifetime in racing and what it’s been like watching his son, Stewart Friesen, grow into the driver he is today while balancing his livelihood and supporting his son&#3...

Do we really need to sweat the small stuff anymore?? I mean, obviously the answer is no, but at one point in time that 'small stuff' was life shattering! So, what should we really not care about these days? Lets find out...

Bob Slack, partner at Bicknell Racing Products joins us this week! In the world of racing, the setup of your car can mean the difference between winning and losing. Bob, a seasoned expert in the racing industry, shares his essential tips and insights on how to effectively set up your race car for optimal performance and more.

If you feel like you keep pushing back the one thing that you want because you don't feel ready... this episode is for you.

Have you ever actually thought about all of those affected when one race track closes? Even when the tracks schedule changes... how many people actually get impacted?

You know the saying - you can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward... that's what this episode is all about. Sometimes it's good to take a step back and look at how far you've come and the transitions you went through along the way to get you to where you are today...

Mandee Pauch Mahaney interviews Tim Farrell Jr., the race director for the Super Dirt Car Series. Tim shares his journey into racing, the behind-the-scenes work that goes into race day, the challenges of making tough calls, and how he handles them. Tim emphasizes the importance of safety in racing and the need for clear communication about rules and decisions. He also reflects on the impact of soc...

Do you feel like you're taking the hard road most days? Maybe the people around you are doing more harm than good? Maybe you're being too hard on yourself? There has to be a better way to achieve success than what you're currently doing, right? Right...

Racing tests you physically… but what happens when it tests you mentally? In this episode, Stewart Friesen opens up about the accident that sidelined him last season and more importantly, the mindset it took to come back from it. We go beyond the crash itself and dive into what the weeks and months after looked like: the uncertainty, the frustration, and the mental battles that don’t get talked ab...

Going viral on social media can seem exciting, but there’s a side of it people don’t always talk about. In this episode, Mandee shares the reality of what happens when a video reaches millions of views — and how to handle the negativity that often comes with it.

Most race fans have no idea how much behind-the-scenes effort goes into making their favorite track run smoothly—and profitably. Kolten Gouse, Promoter of the Year in the Northeast, reveals how he's transforming BAPS Motor Speedway with innovative ideas that challenge industry norms. From a $5 race that hasn't been seen in 50 years to a money-back guarantee if features aren’t finished on t...

Playing small doesn’t always look obvious. Sometimes it looks like waiting, overthinking, or surrounding yourself with the wrong environment. In this episode, Mandee breaks down five signs you might be holding yourself back — and why recognizing them could change everything.

Rachel Davenport shares the reality of loving someone in racing — building her own identity while supporting her husband, Jonathan Davenport, at the highest level of the sport. The emotional highs, private struggles, and real-life balance.

Let's talk about why growth can make people around you uncomfortable and why that doesn’t mean you should shrink yourself. From projection and comfort zones to the fear of being left behind, lets unpacks the real reasons people resist your expansion and share how to keep moving forward anyway. If you’ve ever felt misunderstood while chasing something bigger, this episode will hit home.

I guess it’s about time to spill the juicy stories of our first few years with the 35 team. The stories we swore we’d never tell because they were either embarrassing, illegal, or could have been held against us 😂 but I guess there’s a time and a place and what better time then now to share it all…

In this mini episode, I’m talking about something we don’t say out loud enough — not everyone is supposed to come with you as you grow. As you evolve, build your career, step into motherhood, leadership, business, or simply become more aligned with who you really are… relationships can shift. Friendships can change. Team dynamics can change. Even family roles can feel different. And that doesn’t m...

In this weeks episode of Dirt Track Confessions Mandee Pauch Mahaney welcomes two-time NHRA Funny Car Champion Cruz Pedregon. Cruz discusses the differences between drag racing and dirt racing, emphasizing the unique challenges and skills required for each discipline. He explains the thrill of dirt racing, the dynamic driving styles and what sets dirt and drag racing apart but more-so how similar...

Looking back on my 'younger years' sure is eye opening. If you're in your late teens or early 20s and find yourself hanging around in the pits or at the race track, this episode is for you.

Renowned crew chief and business owner, Scott Jeffery shares his insights on building successful race teams and the evolution of racing technology. They discuss the balance between business and racing, the dynamics between drivers and crew chiefs. As well as the need for effective communication and the challenges of experimenting with setups during races. A great listen for drivers and crew alike!

Did you know that your brains job is to keep you safe? Ever wondered why you want to step outside of your comfort zone but struggle to? I've got you covered...

An honest conversation about growing up in racing as a woman — the relationships, pressures, jealousy, and truths no one really talks about with special guests Emelie Sauve Raabe and Kyla Kisacky

If you're a creature of habit - this episode is for you. Trust me. You're going to want to listen.