A New Chapter: Reflecting on the Journey

For as long as I can remember, my weekends have revolved around racecars and racetracks. From the time I was a 16-year-old kid driving a pace car to becoming a seasoned professional responsible for coordinating VIP experiences backstage, live event entertainment has been my life's work. I’ve spent my entire career refining my craft. And I first realized this was my passion when I caught myself thinking about ways to improve moments associated with driver introductions or when I was brainstorming new hype segments for the next race.

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This passion isn’t new to me—it’s something I’ve always possessed. I still remember being part of the AV team during Christ the King’s 8th grade Christmas play. My teacher once commended me for knowing every line and anticipating the exact moment for each audio cue and lighting change. I’ve always tended to get lost in the details. Some might call it ADD, but in live events, it’s a superpower. Everything slows down, and I can see the whole picture.

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Of course, growing up at the track made my childhood different. After the races, we’d sit in a LaQuinta parking lot, telling stories until dawn, then drive home so I could make it to school on Monday morning. The storytellers in those parking lots are now NASCAR Hall of Famers like Hershel McGriff and Ron Hornaday Jr. This unique experience afforded me the ability to spend time with and learn from the captains of industry that presented in all forms—some were small business owners managing teams of dozens while others led thousands.

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Throughout my career, I've been fortunate to learn from legendary NASCAR figures. In my early years, it was Dennis Huth and Ken Clapp; later, it was Mike Helton, Steve O’Donnell, and Tom Deery. As I moved further along in my career, I had the privilege of working directly with incredible leaders like Steve Phelps, Jill Gregory and Norris Scott — all whom continue to serve as trusted advisors. What I’ve always admired about these leaders is their unwavering professionalism and deep expertise in their areas of focus. They are truly the best of the best.

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So, when Chip Wile called me earlier this year to share the news of my promotion to officer, I was filled with pride alongside a deep understanding of the responsibility this new position carried. Looking back, it's clear that the past 30 years have all served as preparation for this moment. Whether it was working as a struggling event coordinator, traveling 28 weeks a year for a modest salary, stage-managing a presidential visit, or celebrating this past year with my team in Chicago, each experience has led me to this next chapter.

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Over the past two years as a team, we’ve made great strides—reintroducing the NASCAR Experience, launching the NASCAR Kids Zone, building out a dedicated entertainment team, and testing new ideas (some worked, others didn’t). These efforts have laid a strong foundation, and with the changes coming in 2025, I’m more excited than ever to see what we can achieve.

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As thrilled as I was to get that call it wasn’t just about a new title, it was the recognition that I had become the subject matter expert who I once looked up to. I hope it goes without saying, but I’m incredibly grateful for the trusted advisors who guide and inspire me daily. You know who you are, and I truly appreciate you. I will do my best to live up to the example that you have set for me.

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Now it’s time to get back to work as the 2025 season is right around the corner— and our guests have big expectations regarding our constant commitment to improving each season.

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Hope I see you trackside soon!

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Cheers,

Michael