Momentum: A Motorsports Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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As the first-ever American -- male or female -- to win an FIM Enduro World Championship, Rachel Gutish knows what it means to grind for a goal. In this episode, host Heather Wilson Schiltz talks with Rachel about racing across Europe on a shoestring budget to juggling multiple championships on both sides of the Atlantic. 

Rachel shares the highs and lows of a season defined by grit, travel and a few lucky breaks. She opens up about landing her factory ride with Rieju, how it felt to finally clinch a National Enduro title after more than a decade in the series, and what motivates her to keep pushing the limits of what’s possible in off-road racing. They also dive into her long career in the sport, including her 10 appearances at the International Six Days Enduro and her X Games experiences. Plus, they touch on what she’s doing to keep women’s EnduroCross alive in the U.S.

🎧 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• How Rachel captured the 2025 AMA National Enduro Women’s Elite Championship
• What it took to win the FIM Enduro World Championship and travel the globe on a tight schedule
• The challenges of racing multiple series across continents and managing fatigue
• Her decade-long journey with the U.S. Women’s ISDE Trophy Team and how the program evolved
• Why she loves the challenge of EnduroCross and hard enduro 
• The story behind her surprise factory deal with Rieju and how it saved her professional racing career
• Honest talk about the opportunities women need in motorsports and what's changed throughout the years (and still needs to change)

📲 Connect with Rachel Gutish on Instagram and Facebook

SPONSORED CONTENT: If you're a racer looking to show sponsors how you can bring value to their company, visit HighGearSuccess.com to view services offered by High Gear Success for racers. 

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Momentum: A Motorsports Podcast, powered by High Gear Success

👉 Want to connect or recommend a guest? Visit: MomentumMotorsportsPodcast.com

🔔 Subscribe on YouTube for more motorsports stories and strategies

📸 Follow @MomentumMotorsportsPodcast on Instagram + Facebook

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For nearly a decade, Mikey Waynes has been the comedic voice that fans associate with the energy, excitement, and heart of GNCC Racing. His quick wit and genuine passion for storytelling have made him one of the most recognizable voices not only in GNCC, but also in Pro Motocross, Loretta Lynn’s, Mini O’s, and beyond.

But behind the humor and race-day energy is a story of transformation. Mikey’s journey didn’t begin on a bike -- it started on a comedy stage. What began as a passion for stand-up evolved into an unexpected career behind the mic, where his love for people and storytelling found a new home at the track. Over time, that role became much more than announcing -- it became an outlet.

In this heartfelt conversation, host Heather Wilson Schiltz sits down with Mikey to talk about his path from local off-road events to national broadcasts, how racing gave him purpose during some of life’s most challenging moments, and what it means to step back from GNCC announcing after nine incredible years.

🎧 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• How a stand-up comedy background prepared Mikey for live race announcing
• The hilarious story of how his wife (a 30-second card girl) led him into motorsports
• What it’s like to call a GNCC race when you can’t actually see the action
• Behind-the-scenes chaos of a typical race weekend and how announcers stay on cue
• Funny “hot mic” mishaps and the nerves that come with live broadcasting
• Emotional race moments — from Walker Fowler’s comeback to Kailub Russell’s 2025 John Penton win
• How racing gave Mikey purpose through a challenging time in his life
• The importance of mental health and community within the racing world
• Why now was the right time to step back from GNCC and what comes next for him

📲 Connect with Mikey Waynes

Instagram: @mikeywaynes

Facebook: Mikey Waynes

SPONSORED CONTENT: If you're a racer looking to show sponsors how you can bring value to their company, visit HighGearSuccess.com to view services offered by High Gear Success for racers. 

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Momentum: A Motorsports Podcast, powered by High Gear Success

👉 Want to connect or recommend a guest? Visit: MomentumMotorsportsPodcast.com

🔔 Subscribe on YouTube for more motorsports stories and strategies

📸 Follow @MomentumMotorsportsPodcast on Instagram + Facebook

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As co-founder/owner of Wild Ass Motorcycle Seats, host of the Wild Ass PodcASSt, and self-described “guy who did a long-distance ride,” Craig Johnson joins host Heather Wilson Schiltz to talk about building a recognizable brand and what the Hoka Hey Challenge taught him about preparation, grit and focus.

Craig has heard stories of riders who thought their days on two wheels were over until a Wild Ass cushion gave them back their freedom. From a young woman recovering from a devastating crash to a Spyder rider in a wheelchair finding his way back on the road, these moments fuel Craig’s passion to keep innovating. 

In this episode, he shares how feedback from riders shapes the product, why vending at motorcycle rallies is key to connecting with customers, and how a simple seat cushion has made a life-changing difference for so many.

🎧 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• How riding minibikes and racing locally led Craig into his first dealership job (and the pitch that got him hired)
• Launching Wild Ass: a lawsuit, a business partner’s health fight and fully taking the reins in 2019
• How the name “Wild Ass” came to be
• Vending at Daytona Bike Week, Arizona Bike Week, Americade, the BMW Rally, Sturgis Motorcycle Week, Milwaukee’s Homecoming, Bikes Blues & BBQ, and more
• The tech in the cushions: interconnected air cells 
• Customer stories that stick: from a young rider with a smashed pelvis to a Spyder rider in a wheelchair getting back on the road
• The Wild Ass PodcASSt: sharing riders’ stories, pausing during a busy season, and gearing up to record again
• Riding 10,293 miles in 11 days 9 hours during the Hoka Hey Challenge 
• Entrepreneurship talk: shedding distractions, handling stress, and treating setbacks as lessons—not failures

📲 Connect with Craig Johnson on Instagram

🌐 Learn more about Wild Ass

• Website: Wild-Ass.com
• Wild Ass on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube

SPONSORED CONTENT: If you're a racer looking to show sponsors how you can bring value to their company, visit HighGearSuccess.com to view services offered by High Gear Success for racers. 

Support the show

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Momentum: A Motorsports Podcast, powered by High Gear Success

👉 Want to connect or recommend a guest? Visit: MomentumMotorsportsPodcast.com

🔔 Subscribe on YouTube for more motorsports stories and strategies

📸 Follow @MomentumMotorsportsPodcast on Instagram + Facebook

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When Drew Faulkner first picked up motorcycling after his military service, he didn’t imagine it would lead to organizing a grassroots adventure and dual sport rally. As the creator of Red River Scramble and host of the Moto Adventurer Unscripted podcast, Drew blends his love of maps, Appalachian riding, and community-building into a passion project that’s drawn riders from more than 20 states.

Drew shares with host Heather Wilson Schiltz how Red River Scramble grew from a handful of Instagram friends into a 300+ rider gathering, why navigation and communication are central to safe adventure riding, and what keeps him motivated to organize a free event year after year. He also discusses his personal riding style, most memorable trips, and how podcasting connects the adventure and dual sport community.

🎧 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• How Drew got into motorcycling after the military and the story of his first bike
• The grassroots beginnings of Red River Scramble and how it’s grown to hundreds of riders
• Why communication is the biggest lesson he’s learned as an event organizer
• The role of mapping and GPS and why he still loves old-school methods
• Balancing challenging routes with accessibility for newer riders
• Drew’s most memorable trip (and what it taught him about letting go of detailed plans)
• The story behind starting Moto Adventurer Unscripted and keeping it going for 5 years and 115+ episodes
• Why Drew prefers riding solo (or a duo) over large group rides
• His favorite piece of gear that’s been with him since his Army days

📲 Connect with Drew Faulkner on Instagram

🌐 Learn more:

• Drew's Website: motoadventurer.com (including link to podcast)
• Red River Scramble: redriverscramble.com
• Listen to Heather's guest episode on MotoAdventurer Unscripted in Dec 2023

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Momentum: A Motorsports Podcast, powered by High Gear Success

👉 Want to connect or recommend a guest? Visit: MomentumMotorsportsPodcast.com

🔔 Subscribe on YouTube for more motorsports stories and strategies

📸 Follow @MomentumMotorsportsPodcast on Instagram + Facebook

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When fans walk into a stadium for Monster Energy AMA Supercross, they see the dirt, the lights, and the action. But what does it take to make that show happen? Bill Heras, Director of Operations for AMA Supercross, promoted by Feld Entertainment, joins host Heather Wilson Schiltz to share his journey from Arenacross crew member and truck driver to leading the Supercross operations team. 

From sourcing dirt in every city to covering tracks before a storm, Bill pulls back the curtain on the logistics, challenges, and problem-solving that keeps Supercross operational.

🎧 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• How Bill got his start in Arenacross and worked his way up
• What goes into pre-season planning for Supercross events, even years in advance
• Where the dirt comes from and how it's stored
• How the operations crew battled weather at the Philadelphia round with tarps and teamwork
• The role of DirtWurx and Feld in designing tracks with safety and logistics in mind
• Crazy behind-the-scenes stories, from broken skid loaders to a stuck finish line structure
• What the operations team does during the race that most fans don’t notice
• Bill’s motocross background, first race at Englishtown and passion for two wheels
• Favorite cities and food stops along the tour—and why Seattle is at the top of his list
• A look ahead at the unique tracks for the SMX Playoffs

📲 Connect with Bill Heras on Instagram

🌐 Learn more & get event tickets: SuperMotocross.com

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Momentum: A Motorsports Podcast, powered by High Gear Success

👉 Want to connect or recommend a guest? Visit: MomentumMotorsportsPodcast.com

🔔 Subscribe on YouTube for more motorsports stories and strategies

📸 Follow @MomentumMotorsportsPodcast on Instagram + Facebook

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From holding a CBS mic for the first time at a Snocross race to interviewing legends like Chad Reed and other Supercross stars, Haley Shanley’s journey is proof that persistence, preparation and passion can open some pretty epic doors. A lifelong fan turned respected commentator, reporter and host, Haley has worked for Championship Off-Road, Snocross, AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross to bring fans closer to the action.

In this episode, Haley joins host Heather Wilson Schiltz to talk about how she got her start in the pits and in the booth, why rapport with racers matters, and how she prepares her voice and mind for long weekends in sometimes extreme conditions. Whether you’re dreaming of a motorsports media career or simply curious what happens behind the camera, this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration.

🎧 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• How Haley’s high school broadcasting class sparked a lifelong career pursuit
• The full-circle moment of interviewing her childhood idols: Chad Reed
• What it really takes to break into motorsports media
• How she transitioned from a social media role to on-camera commentary
• Why building trust with racers is critical to great interviews
• Her preparation rituals for Supercross, including vocal care on the road
• How she avoids repetitive questions and keeps interviews fresh
• Advice for women looking to break into motorsports careers

📲 Connect with Haley Shanley on Instagram

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Momentum: A Motorsports Podcast, powered by High Gear Success

👉 Want to connect or recommend a guest? Visit: MomentumMotorsportsPodcast.com

🔔 Subscribe on YouTube for more motorsports stories and strategies

📸 Follow @MomentumMotorsportsPodcast on Instagram + Facebook

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David Gay, Senior ORV Development Technician at Polaris and 2024 Champ Off-Road Pro-Am Side-by-Side Champion, joins host Heather Wilson Schiltz for a conversation on racing multiple disciplines, working in a technical field, and having a winning mindset. 

From early days on dirtbikes to long nights building race-ready machines, David shares how his full-time role at Polaris directly fuels his success on the short course. Tune in for insights on side-by-side racing, CVT development, and what it really takes to compete at a high level with a small but mighty team.

🎧 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• His wild ride at four years old
• How David chose a technical career path
• What a CVT development technician does at Polaris
• The methods behind clutch calibration and testing
• The culture shock moving from ATVMX Nationals to Championship Off-Road
• Differences between Pro-Am SxS and Pro Stock SxS racing
• His mindset shift moving up to a more competitive class
• How he approaches setup on his machine
• Why 2025 is a “development year” and what’s next for David on the track

📲 Connect with David on Instagram and Facebook

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Momentum: A Motorsports Podcast, powered by High Gear Success

👉 Want to connect or recommend a guest? Visit: MomentumMotorsportsPodcast.com

🔔 Subscribe on YouTube for more motorsports stories and strategies

📸 Follow @MomentumMotorsportsPodcast on Instagram + Facebook

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Bob Weber, Co-Founder and CEO of 6D Helmets, joins host Heather Wilson Schiltz for a deep dive into motorcycle rider safety, education and helmet innovation. Bob shares his insights on what makes a safer helmet and why rotational energy management is critical. 

🎧 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• The origin story of 6D Helmets and the creation of its ODS technology
• Why some traditional helmet standards may no longer reflect real-world crash scenarios
• The difference between budget helmets and premium designs
• Pros and cons of buckles vs. D-rings in helmet straps
• How 6D’s rebuildable helmet liner helps riders save money and stay protected
• The challenges of concussion prevention and why rotational energy matters
• Why youth rider education and proper chest protection are more important than ever
• A sneak peek at 6D’s upcoming adventure and mountain bike helmet releases
• The story behind 6D’s memorial ride honoring co-founder Robert Reisinger

📲 Follow 6D Helmets on Facebook and Instagram

🌐 Learn more: 6Dhelmets.com

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Momentum: A Motorsports Podcast, powered by High Gear Success

👉 Want to connect or recommend a guest? Visit: MomentumMotorsportsPodcast.com

🔔 Subscribe on YouTube for more motorsports stories and strategies

📸 Follow @MomentumMotorsportsPodcast on Instagram + Facebook

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Scott Newby, Communications Manager for Yamaha’s ATV and Side-by-Side division, joins host Heather Wilson Schiltz to talk about what it takes to authentically share a brand’s story on a farm, in the field, or on the trail. From the “Realize Your Adventure” campaign to the long-running Outdoor Access Initiative, Scott shares how Yamaha highlights outdoor recreation and advocates for responsible land use across the country. Plus, he gets back to his racing roots and discusses competing on a Yamaha Grizzly at the Snowshoe GNCC.

🎧 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• How Scott's outdoor lifestyle has supported his communications role at Yamaha
• Yamaha SMASH: blending hunting, target shooting, and machine performance into one wild off-road experience
• Bringing rider/driver stories to life through the “Realize Your Adventure” campaign 
• Why Yamaha invests in the Outdoor Access Initiative and how it’s making an impact for more than just motorsports users
• Scott’s GNCC racing experiences and why he keeps going back
• How the Destination Yamaha program connects riders/drivers with rental machines across the country. 

📲 Connect with Scott Newby on Instagram

🌐 Learn more:
• Yamaha Motorsports: yamahamotorsports.com
• Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative: yamahaoai.com

SPONSORED CONTENT: If you're a racer looking to show sponsors how you can bring value to their company, visit HighGearSuccess.com to view services offered by High Gear Success for racers. 

Support the show

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Momentum: A Motorsports Podcast, powered by High Gear Success

👉 Want to connect or recommend a guest? Visit: MomentumMotorsportsPodcast.com

🔔 Subscribe on YouTube for more motorsports stories and strategies

📸 Follow @MomentumMotorsportsPodcast on Instagram + Facebook

Send a text

From national championships to building better race programs, Cory Texter is shaping the future of flat track.  In this episode, host Heather Wilson Schiltz chats with the two-time American Flat Track Production Twins Champion, race promoter, and Tank Slappin’ Podcast host about life after pro racing.

Cory shares what it takes to run successful amateur flat track events, how he’s shaping the next generation of racers, and why he’s not afraid to speak his mind on the mic. You’ll also hear about coaching rising stars like Bodi Paige, working with MotoAmerica’s Mini Cup, and balancing it all with raising a racing family.

🎧 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Growing up in a Harley-Davidson dealership

• From racer to promoter: how Cory started the CTR Flat Track Series

• Behind-the-scenes of amateur racing events, track prep & scheduling

• Coaching the next generation: Bodi Paige & the MotoAmerica Talent Cup

• What goes into building better racing for kids, families, and grassroots racers

• The Tank Slappin’ Podcast: racing talk without the filter

📲 Follow Cory Texter Promotions on Instagram

🎙️ Check out the Tank Slappin’ Podcast on Instagram

🌐 Learn more: https://corytexterpromotions.com/

SPONSORED CONTENT: If you're a racer looking to show sponsors how you can bring value to their company, visit HighGearSuccess.com to view services offered by High Gear Success for racers. 

Support the show

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Momentum: A Motorsports Podcast, powered by High Gear Success

👉 Want to connect or recommend a guest? Visit: MomentumMotorsportsPodcast.com

🔔 Subscribe on YouTube for more motorsports stories and strategies

📸 Follow @MomentumMotorsportsPodcast on Instagram + Facebook