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Bill sits down with Matt Busby, President and CEO of Thunderhill Raceway, to talk about everything from his love of rotary engines to the future of track day events. Matt shares his incredible journey from being a car-obsessed teenager in Louisiana to managing world-class racing facilities, including NOLA Motorsports Park and NCM Motorsports Park.

We dive into what it takes to get started in racing—whether it's through karting, autocross, or jumping straight into open-wheel cars like Matt did. He shares how saying "yes" to an unexpected job offer in motorsports set him on the path to managing some of the most well-known racetracks in the country. Plus, we explore the business side of racing, from track operations to the evolving expectations of modern-day racers.

Matt also has some wild track stories, including a late-night minibike jousting match, an insane wrong-way incident on track, and the time a tornado nearly wiped out NCM Motorsports Park. We also discuss the biggest mistakes new drivers make at track days, how racing facilities must adapt to changing demographics, and why building a welcoming paddock culture is key to growing grassroots motorsports.

💥 Whether you're a seasoned racer, a weekend track warrior, or just curious about the industry, this episode i

The season might be over, but the work is just beginning. Don't let your track, autocross or racecar sit idle this off season. Now is the perfect time to tackle those projects that get you one step closer to the podium. For upgrades, maintenance, or that big performance project, there's only one name. Atomic Autosports. Get ready to dominate next season. Find us at AtomicAutoSports.com and book a call with Bill to review your project and goals.

It's getting to be the cool time of year and you're ready for hot deals to update your car for next season. Now through December 31st, 2025, if you go Mishimoto.com and put in "grid15" you'll get 15% off the entire catalog. The only exception we do have a blackout date during Black Friday through Cyber Monday, but through the remainder of the year, 15% off!

Searching for the perfect gift for the motorsports fanatic in your life this year? Skip the socks and head to Atomic Auto Sports! From Cool track decals and Premium Malco detailing products to Essential Trackside accessories. We've got everything for the track addict in your house. Make your holiday shopping easy. Visit Atomicautosports.com right now or swing by the shop to see the selection.

Ready to get more from your track days? Want to move to the front of the line for your track day prep? Then you need the Atomic Autosports Apex Club. From a merch pack and exclusive events to priority booking for your track prep essentials. The Atomic Auto Apex Club helps you get on the podium. Stop chasing lap times alone. Join the Apex Club to maximize your performance and share your passion. Sign up at Atomic Autosports.com

Atomic Autosports has some pretty big news! Track first now has a physical presence right inside Atomic Autosports. That means you can get your car Atomic prepped and grab essential safety gear, helmets, shoes, gloves, and more all in one spot. We can also have your purchases shipped right to our shop in Wickliffe, saving you on shipping. Stop by and check out the expanded selection.

Thanks for listening and taking an interest in growing grassroots racing. The Late To Grid podcast shares the stories and inspiration that help listeners along their motorsports journey.

Find all episodes on the Atomic Autosports website.