RaceCoin Podcast

Host: Jai Shukla & Guest: Darren Turner Q1 — Tell us about your driving experiences when you were a child. What got you into it and made you choose this as a career?

Although obsessed with Formula 1 as a kid, it still took Darren Turner a solid year to convince his parents to let him drive even a go-kart. He’d drive the local track pretending he was a Grand Prix driver, not even realizing it was possible for a kid like him to become one. That realization became a reality years later after showing off his talent as a Formula 1 mechanic, leading to his first driving position.

Q2 — At what point did you decide to actually turn it into a career?

It wasn’t a decision really, but more of an opportunity. Attending a racing school and winning the final sort of secured the deal in his mind. After that, Darren did everything he could do find enough money to start racing full-time.

Q3 — I know a lot of drivers mention luck and right place right time to get to where they are. You ended up a part of the GT Championship. Can you talk a little bit about that?

Most drivers don’t really get to choose where they end up. I mean, everyone wants to get to Formula 1! Unfortunately, there are only so many opportunities, so you really just end up where those opportunities take you. Darren Turner admits feeling lucky to have ended up at Aston Martin in 2004 as a development driver.

Q4 — You’ve had quite the career, winning Le Mans three times. Talk us through some of these wins.

We had some hiccups between ‘05-’06, so in ‘07 our victory was glorious. The pressure and the challenge make the win that much more bittersweet.

 

Q5 — What makes a race mean the most to you?

The most special are the ones where you can look at your own individual performance and know you did great. Normally it’s a collective performance that gives you the win, but it’s knowing that I did the best of my abilities during a race that carries the most weight. Every driver is looking for perfection!

 

Q6 — What’s your take on having that mindset of self-improvement, trying to be that person you want to be in the car?

Your development as a human is ongoing and if you rest on your laurels you’ve basically given up! He’s coming up on 20 years racing, and seeing the new generation of drivers coming up helps him learn to brand new things. The new generation’s techniques and approach is different, and while he’s always trying to improve on his own, having that fresh impetus definitely helps him evolve and stay sharp.

 

Q7 — What are some examples of things the new generation has brought to the sport?

They’ve raced with different manufacturers, so they bring lots of technical expertise to the table. They see things in a different way and drive with different techniques from previous generations. If one of these techniques cuts one-tenth of a second per lap, in a Le Mans race that adds up!

 

Q8 — Can you talk us through some of the changes in your perspective about racing over the decades in your career?

Honestly, not that much has changed. The motivation is still there -- he’s hungry for performance and hungry for results. Of course, some things have changed — he’s got a family now — so naturally, the motivation is a little different than before. But he swears he’s just as driven as he’s ever been. You can’t take that out of the driver!

 

Q9 — What would you say to someone who’s starting up and hasn’t understood the balance of on-track versus off-track?

Number one is that you’ve got to understand that everyone on your team is on a journey as well. If you’ve got a lot of attitudes, you’ll have to purely rely on what you do on the race track, which will only go so far. You’ve got to get the balance right and put the effort into remembering that everyone is with you, but on their own journey as well.

 

Q10 — What would you have done if you hadn’t chosen racing?

One hundred percent he’d still be involved in motorsports, but if he had to choose a profession that doesn’t involve engines and burnt rubber, then it would be something that lets him travel the world. He’s had so many great experiences traveling in motorsport that in hindsight he couldn’t choose anything else. He also has a love for yachts, so maybe he’d be sailing around the world in a boat.

 

Q11 — What do you see for the remaining of your career?

If he had to quit right now, he’s already done more than he ever could have dreamed as a kid. There are a few more years left at Aston Martin, though, and he’s doing more projects on the road car side. However, he still wants to continue driving until someone forces him to stop!

 

Q12 — A lot of people I’ve spoken to have transitioned into teaching or coaching. Is this something you’re at all interested in?

There are a few drivers he’s been coaching at Aston Martin, but he stays humble about it. Darren Turner admits he can be a bit too demanding and impatient sometimes, but his experience more than makes up for the few imperfections.

Podcast with Host: Jai Shukla & Guest: Dominique Aegerter Q1 - When did you first get into racing and get on your first bike?

Dominique Aegerter started at 3 years old. he usually rides in front of his parent’s workshop in Switzerland. Domi's first race with Motor Cross was the start in his career.

 

Q2 - How did you manage to secure your first sponsors and the get funding that you required joining and racing?

His parents always supported him by coming to his training and races. It wasn't easy to find a sponsor but Dominique Aegerter father helped him in finding some sponsors towards his career.

 

Q3 - In the Portuguese Grand Prix - how did that opportunity manage to get secured by yourself?

At 13 he changed from Motor Cross to Road Racing. In the German Championship, Dominique Aegerter came 2nd.
One team from the championship saw his riding - He got access to the Grand Prix.

 

Q4 - What are some hurdles you overcame?

As a Swish Rider, the journey may be difficult to be a professional rider. There's no race track as yet for training and to develop your riding style. From the federation, you don't tend to get a lot of help. You need to be strong mentally - to have supportive parents and sponsors.

 

Q5 - Were your parents ever afraid that you would be in a risky situation or were they always supportive?

My father was always pushing me in a positive way and my mother, on the other hand, is always fearful but always supporting me. My brother always lends a helping hand.

 

Q6 - What is it like at the moment you realize you're about to crash?

When the tire starts to slide, you try to save the slide. When you eventually crash, you move your arms to your chest.

 

Q7 - Are you taught those skills of what to do in a crash?

You train psychically and mentally to get fit so that you are fully concentrated if any crashing takes place; you will be able to manage better.

 

Q8 - What is your mindset towards a crash?

I'm not afraid to crash because I ride in a safety track and I'm trained. I wear an air pack system that effective in helping me prepare for crashes.

 

Q9 - How has your career changed over the last decade and also in the industry?

Every year there has been a lot of progress. I ride different bikes from different companies. 2013-2014 were my best seasons.

 

Q10 - What are the things you work on for training and to be able to concentrate?

I do a lot of Cycling, Running, Gym - I also do Motor Cross.

 

Q11 - What about Simulations?

You have to prepare yourself mentally when you’re on the track.

 

Q12 - On the day of the race, what do you do to prepare for it?

In the morning, eat breakfast, get warm-up at tracks. I stay focus when I'm changing in my room, then do a little more warm-up.

 

Q13 - Is that when you play out the simulations in your head?

I mostly think about what I will do in the race.

 

Q14 - What are some of the roles your teammates play while you're on the track - how do they influence the way you race on track?

We prepare everything before the race. We can see the billboard when we reach the Start/Finish line. When we cross the finish line the number of laps, gaps, how many riders behind you on the Billboard.

 

Q15 - How has your experience changed the way you tackle a race?

It's much easier when you start in the front row. I'm learning each race and this helps me to improve myself to be better. There are factors you need to do to be able to be in the lead.

 

Q16 - Throughout this journey - where do you find that source of guidance from?

I learn every race and try to get help from persons, also mentors. I also try to learn by myself and from teammates. I take the information and see what works best for me.

 

Q17 - How many times do you watch back your own race?

Most of the times, for example, I watch last year race to know which lap time and position. Normally after that race, I watch the race of this season.

 

Q18 - The whole mental training aspect - tell us more about that?

I go to the track to prepare myself in my approach towards riding. I try to be as close as possible to my last race lap time.

 

Q19 - You say you have a trainer - what things do you go through with them?

I train one time per week with my psychical trainer. He gives me the training plan of what to do in the rest of the week. The mental training is carried out one time per month.

 

Q20 - From your mental training session with your trainer, what are you taught to improve for next time? Can you share something so that the audience can apply something that you have learned in your sessions where you're getting trained mentally?

It helps to always stay positive and be you. The training session helps to motivate push you into working harder.

 

Q21 - You took a trip to Brazil - what was that like?

I went to Brazil to visit and sightseeing. It was a great experience.

 

Q22 - What message would you like to leave the fans who are listening?

Enjoy what you do and try your best.

Podcast with Host: Jai Shukla & Guest: Anthony Peacock Q1 — How did you get started into this world of PR?

It was actually an accident. Starting as a journalist writing primarily about motorsport, he found himself being asked by drivers about how to get more media exposure. After noticing his suggestions were quite well-liked, he decided to make a career out of it, gradually moving from journalism to PR. He believes that to truly understand PR you have to be a journalist yourself because you can’t answer to what journalists want without knowing exactly what those things are.

Q2 — While journalists are attempting to uncover the truth, PR is about fluffing up the truth. Is that a statement you agree with?

Absolutely. In journalism, you tend to get better results from being as honest as you can. The job of PR isn’t necessarily about trying to persuade people, but to present the evidence in a way to allow the audience to make up their own mind. PR people are very sensitive to
criticism, but you just have to accept that. If the thing is bad, people have every right to say it is. If it’s good then hopefully people will say it’s good. If there’s one thing missing from PR it’s a higher level of honesty.

Q3 — How often do journalists end up finding the truth?

About ninety-five percent of the time. It’s generally a bad idea to cover something up because you’ll look like an idiot when it inevitably gets found out!

Q4 — Have you ever attempted to cover something up only to learn a valuable lesson or was it your principles in journalism that made it seem unnecessary to even attempt it, knowing the ease of being able to find out the truth in the first place?

He succinctly admits that even if it’s negative, he’d never even bother to try to hide it.

Q5 — How do you work your magic to present the truth in a relatable way and have people feel positive about it?

An emphasis on the positives works great. You can exclude the negatives as long as you’re not pretending things are different than what they really are. In the digital age of Twitter, any cover-up will be uncovered by someone just on their mobile phone! It used to be a lot easier to keep secrets than it is now.

Q6 — How do you feel that’s impacted the way you’re able to do your job?

Honestly, it hasn’t really impacted his career much at all. Again, If you have nothing to hide, you have nothing to fear.

Q7 — Tell us about what you’re working on right now and what ongoing projects you’re involved in.

Currently, Anthony Peacock is working with Pirelli and Formula 1, he just finished up at a rally in Portugal, and will soon be headed to the Canadian Grand Prix, supporting the in-house Pirelli media office. He’s branching out from motorsport as well, starting his own catering company. Even
he admits pizza is about as far from motorsport as you can get. No two days are typical, though, an average day usually split into small chunks involving many different projects,
some short-term, some long-term.

Q8 — How did people think you even had the skillset to do PR coming from the journalism side?

Anthony Peacock stays humble and isn’t even quite sure himself. He chalks it up to putting himself out there, making connections with enough people who could vouch for him, and having enough experience that they believed his opinion was worth having.

Q9 — It takes a lot of time and effort to start a business. What was it like going from a one-man role to building up a whole team in your own company?

It was a slow build. His team of five people happened gradually, starting from just his lonesome to adding people one by one. If you get too big too quickly, you’ll no longer be able to relate to your clients.

Q10 — You started the business when the need for your services was already in place. That seems to be the right way to start a business.

It grew organically with, honestly, not even much of a plan. Even Anthony Peacock acknowledges he’s not the best person to be able to sit down and write a business plan. The way the business grew was organic, not forced or contrived.

Q11 — What characteristics did you look for when looking for your right-hand man?

Skillsets are one thing, but the mindset is another. It can be difficult to find someone who’s willing to put the long, anti-social hours which come with the motorsport territory. Most people would prefer they spend their weekend nights with their friends and family or drinking at the pub, not writing press releases. The best person for the job is someone who can put in the hours and make the sacrifices. Motorsport PR isn’t just sipping champagne on the tracks. It’s hard work!

Q12 — I think the biggest myth of PR is that you’ll simply be enjoying the journey of interacting with people that you would already love to interact with, when, really, it’s a lot of long, hard hours. I mean it’s both, really. For example, you can get to interact with racing drivers in exotic locations and that’s part of the appeal, but it’d be a mistake to think it’s just that. No one discusses the daily grind! But the people who love it wouldn’t rather be anywhere else.

Q13 — What can people do to increase their reach in motorsport?

In terms of drivers, it’s being available and proactive. Even the best drivers need to be marketable and provide journalists and their PR agencies with interesting stories to tell about themselves. A lot of drivers are young kids and they just don’t think about what makes a good story and how to sell themselves. They’re focused solely on driving the car quickly. The truth is, a lot of people can drive a car quickly, but not many can drive a car quickly and be marketable at the same time. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Something as simple as uploading some photos from a recent rock-climbing trip to social media can suffice. It all helps. At the end of the day, a motorsport career is about sponsorship, and if they don’t know who you are or what you’re about, you’re shooting yourself in the foot.

Q14 — You’ve worked with many people within the last decade, if not longer. Do you have any interesting stories and anecdotes you’d like to share with the audience?

He’s reluctant to share any stories, mostly involving drivers acting silly and immaturely, including an incident involving a driver and a hotel fire extinguisher, and a well-known driver attempting to fit himself inside an airport x-ray machine! He’d love to tell a few stories but rather prefers to err on the side of discretion. It’s a family show, Anthony Peacock says. However, he’s quick to point out that he’s worked with many great people who don’t participate in this kind of behavior.

Q15 — Social media has changed the way we interact. What do you think the future holds in terms of communication?

There will likely be less and less of a role for traditional PR. People will be doing more things for themselves, likely even running their own campaigns. PR might transition into more of a guiding role, with drivers doing more of their own groundwork. More things will happen in real-time. People don’t want to wait for news anymore. This means having to be up at 3 am to deliver live coverage of a news story if need be. Later than live is too late these days. A digital world also means it’s harder to cover-up any sinful activities. People will need to constantly be on their best behavior!

Q16 — How does the PR world for motorsport vary compared to other industries?

For example, in Formula 1 racing you’re dealing with big sums of money, so any consequence of a wrong decision can be costly. Because of this, people will naturally be more sensitive and aware of anything that could cause a mishap or mistake. But he’d say the guiding principles are still largely the same.

Q17 — What is something you believe that is one-hundred percent right that not everyone agrees with?

Many colleagues say you should persuade a journalist or spin a story in a particular way. Having been a journalist, Anthony Peacock believes that this is just counter-productive behavior. If you badger a journalist, you’ll only get on his bad side and that could easily come back to bite you in the behind!

Podcast with Host: Jai Shukla & Guest: Adderly Fong Q1 - What has it been like being a racing driver in Hong Kong, what sort of opportunities is out there?

Adderly Fong started when it was quite a new sport which wasn't well known. Race Driving has its differences and can be difficult. The internet (Social Media Platforms) wasn't popular at that time when Adderly started out as a Race Driver. The first racing pictures Adderly Fong put on his Instagram Account were a couple of years in his racing career which was good in a sense.

 

Q2 - How has the attraction been back then comparing to now when you are still using social media? 

You get to reach out to a lot more people but mostly in China. China has a different type of social media - its apps. I can use both social media (Instagram, Facebook) and other programs for the Chinese media.

 

Q3 - What sort of Pros and Cons are there for both platforms in terms of exposure? Do you get more of one compared to the other? Is it a little bit different in terms of the number of people that you can reach as well? What sort of variance is there in terms of that as well? Do you feel like other people who may be looking for racing opportunities in that region should also be using these platforms?

It's an effective way to reach a lot of people and in China more specifically. Last 3 to 4 years I've seen a lot of fan following. I have done a lot of racing in Asia which also helps to boost my fan following. In China your whole life is based around the cell phone; one app takes care of social media stuff. You can do basically anything on 1 and 2 of these apps. Older generations use the mobile phone while being a lot more involved - in the USA. 

 

Q4 - In some senses, less competition - is that true to say? 

Yes, because of the new market European and American talent participating in these different championships. Asia's got a lot of tracks and also China. At the moment China has over 300 Applications for race tracks all around the country. Newly establish venues will allow new races and open up new markets.

 

Q5 - In Hong Kong, if I was a racer who wanted to get into racing, what sort of opportunities are there now and how would I go about it?

There' no definite answer to that question. Every motorsports driver starts from a different place and meets different people along the way. You have to treat everyone good because you never know who may help you along the way. When I started racing in Asia at age 16, nobody knew who I was. But I build up my name there for 2 years and then building up my craft in Europe. It's all about building up old relationships because I met these persons again which gave me a lot of opportunities. You have to have a respectful approach towards persons along your racing journey which can lead to more opportunities. The Cons of being in Hong Kong is that if you go to a meeting in Beijing or Shanghai, they classify you as a person from a different country. They could sponsor us because we're Chinese also but on the opposite side, we're from Hong Kong.

 

Q6 - How do you get over that, what do you do and say to them to still kind of fight your case? Is there a way to win that obstruction that they're trying to throw at you?

People believe Hong Kong is an individual country itself and that we're different sort of people and that we're part of China. We and Chinese people all eat the same food and look similar. I'm trying to convince them that I'm learning as well. I'm trying to learn different ways of how Beijing and Shanghai people act. 

  Q7 - What is their primary reason for keeping it so exclusive in some sense? 

I think it's more of a tradition thing. People don't understand the outreach that this sport can connect to. Racing in China is quite a new concept. In such a huge population it's still a very small percentage. 

 

Q8 - How did you find the Zun Motor Sport Crew, how did you get involved with them?

It was the beginning of last year; I'm a friend with most of the Hong Kong race drivers. If we have any opportunities we tend to pass these responsibilities elsewhere to other drivers. In China, there's a race called CTCC (China Touring Car Championship). I got involve with this crew through another Hong Kong Driver. He had competed in this championship. I was one of only 2 who has never been in this championship.

 

Q9 - You did a 700 Kilometer race - what was that like and how did you get into that? Talk us through some of the stages of it? 

When I started racing in 2015, through that racing we pick up a lot of experience. We learn how to put on seat belts, change drivers quickly, etc. We have something called the Pit Stop Time, which allows the driver to refill the car, change the driver, change tires in a safe but also a quick time without rushing. All these things were quite a different experience for me.

 

Q10 - So you are teaching them a lot more than what they're teaching you in that sense?

We're helping them to build as a new team and also helping to teach them safety principles. 

 

Q11 - A race that long, what kind of experiences in term of when you initially start? Are you a lot like in the zone, excited? What goes through your head 300 kilometers compared to the end?

Most drivers go into the first lap and the first corner thinking you can't win the race in the first lap - there's more to lose there than to win. At the beginning of the race, you have quite a good lead into the first corner. For me, it was quite easy to maintain the lead.

 

Q12 - What kind of things do you do to build up that concentration and to be able to focus on driving so long?

 Motorsport is like any other sport- the more you do it, the more you practice the closer to perfect your driving skill becomes.

 

Q13 - How do you secure some of these things and getting an opportunity in Europe?

 I first started at age 16 at a race against time. Kids in Europe start at age 3-6. By the time they reach age 16, they have 10 years of racing experience. At age 16-18 there was learn as quickly as you can in Asia and then see if you can go and race in Europe and do schooling at the same time. I was going to University, so I stay and race in the UK. On a budget, I still had the support of my father. The 3rd year I ever race my results weren't great so finding sponsorship was very difficult. We found a really cheap car and got an engine lease and then open a private company. We try to run a race team, getting few of the guys to race in Germany. After that opportunities came. I met people in Hong Kong which wanted to support me in my pursuit in formula one. I met a manager in Italy who was looking for a 3rd driver. I took the opportunity and find the right people.

 

Q14 - Where do you now place your dreams and where do you hope to compete more and see yourself in the next 5 years or so? 

When Adderly was doing formula stuff, it’s taken him into the US. Formula 1 is where he wants to continue. The ultimate goal for Adderly Fong is never growing 24 hours, to be able to win that race.

 

Q15 - Where has your sense of direction come from- have you have a mentor through all of this? How did you make these decisions? I've gotten these opportunities; I'm going to take it. How did you navigate through this path that is clearly not a straight forward one?

Adderly Fong received lots of advice from family and friends. It's up to you to take yourself where you want to go. It wasn't a really happy environment for him because it was competitive. 

 

Q16 - What advice do you have for people who are looking for sponsors, especially those starting out maybe in Hong Kong?

Build up your connections and try to meet more new people. Down the line, you might meet a sponsor or race, team owner. You might use this connection later on to set a business deal for them. You can get a sponsorship and use this to raise funds for new gear, cars to go racing. You have to do your research and also ask questions.

 

Q17 - What's been one of your biggest lessons that you like to share throughout racing?

The biggest lesson is to never give up. When Adderly Fong first started he was crashing every weekend. A lot of times he would question his ability and even ask himself if it's worth continuing. If you don't crash you don't know where the limit is, so push hard and when you find the limit, try to not make the same mistake twice. Apply that to life which has helped him out in racing.

 

Q18 - What experiences allowed you to have this mindset in the first place?

Adderly Fong's parents gave him a lot of freedom when he was growing up. Adderly had the chance to try a lot of things. They have been given the mindset, Try first you never know what you're going to find. Adderly Fong had a mental coach that had to help him to build up confidence, self-esteem. She even taught him visualization.

Podcast with Host: Jai Shukla & Guest: Oswaldo Negri Jr Q1 - What got you into motorsport?

On Sundays, Oswaldo Negri used to wake up at 7 am because there was a Go-kart race on TV. When Oswaldo was 8 that's when he realizes that is what he wanted to do and he told his dad about it. His parents had opposed him doing it because they stated that it was too expensive. Oswaldo Negri 's dad told him, that he could race one day if he's going to win the lottery. Oswaldo told him "I'm going to pray right now". Two weeks later my dad won the lottery.

 

Q2 - What God are you praying to, how did that work out?

Oswaldo Negri just prayed. My Parents and Grandparents taught him how to pray as a kid.

 

Q3 - How would you like to be remembered?

I would like to be remembered as someone who gave everything he could in everything he did as an honest guy. It doesn't matter what if you're allocating the time for it. As I can do something the best of my ability and be happy with my performance, that's the main thing, especially on the racing side. With Motor Racing business, you don't know who you're going to meet, so you have to keep your doors open.

 

Q4 - What will you say to people who are trying to still achieve what you are doing and have the work ethic that you have?

I didn't give up. I went to England to try to be in Formula 1. I raced British Formula 3 in the early 90s. In the end, when I was close to approaching Formula 1, something happened that blocked that road. I thought all my dreams and my hard work it's all gone. In my opinion, it was probably not meant for me to be in F1. My story was here in the US. I thought I would never be happy. I was even depressed. At age 55 I'm still racing. You have to have options - sometimes doors close but a better one is going to open. Persons need to be ready for opportunities. When you approach these opportunities while enjoying yourself you perform well in whatever you're doing.

 

Q5 - What’s your motto in life?

Balance of everything basically - the balance of my professional career and family. I do a lot of coaching. You have to find all the positive stuff that happens daily in your life. 

 

Q6 - What is the most thrilling event you've ever participated in or potentially won?

The biggest race that I won was Daytona in 2012. We won the race and it's hard to explain how much it takes to do it physically and mentally. That's one thing I won't forget, that feeling. After you taste something as good as that you go to a different level and that's what you will look for while on track.

 

Q7 - Who and what inspires you?

I grew up in Brazil. It’s a great country, but it was going through a really rough time and there were only 2 idols at that time and every kid wanted to be one of them, Pele and Ronaldinho. I would love to hear Ronaldinho’s story. 

 

Q8 - How has your definition of beauty changed over time?

I don't think it changes, because you try to see the beauty in everything. I look at things positively, beautiful career, family and friends.

 

Q9 - You mentioned reading as part of your hobbies - is that something you still have time for?

I used to do a lot more than I do now. I enjoy watching series that are not Fiction. I have a couple of books that I love reading, one of them I read every year. 

 

Q10 - When you see your career almost coming to an end if you’re still being called into a new contract that's keeping you driving?

As long as I'm enjoying it, I'll still continue. Just before I connected with you I was doing a powerpoint with driving notes. I was doing everything with very small details. I try to get as many details as possible, so when I arrive at a track I can get going as quickly as possible. 

 

Q11 - In terms of your plan for when you do actually retire, what do you see the shift being in terms of your attention for time?

I like to be involved in motor racing on the management side and have worked with many drivers. I had worked with a young American driver, Darren King. I took him to England a few times to test British Formula 3. I enjoy passing on to him what I know so we can cut his learning curve and help him. Throughout my career, I learned from my mistakes. I enjoy passing on to persons what I know from this career. My nephew started racing in Brazil at age 9, that’s actually the age I had also started racing. I went there 2 weeks ago to help him in one of the races; the whole family was there to support my nephew.

 

Q12 - Did you actually give either of these guys (Nephew and Darren King) the ultimate prayer for winning everything?

If they win I feel like a winner also. When they do well I cheer and get extremely happy. That feeling is the same when I win a race and that's a very satisfying thing.

Host: Jai Shukla & Guest: Xavier Maassen Q1 – Tell us about your journey into motorsport?

Xavier Maassen started when he was 15, for 3 years in karting and then after that, he went to Formula Ford. Xavier went to Silverstone to train just before that, and this was really helpful for the basics of racing. There on, went onto Formula Ford. The Winter series was where we started off and did 4 races in England.

Q2 – How did you get those opportunities and what are the main differences between karting and cars?

The dad of Xavier Maassen was into racing and he did his first race, and then it just snowballed. His dad told him to get sponsors, Xavier Maassen had to ask his uncle then. They managed to get sponsors from there. His dad was commercially responsible and had the time to assist him.

Q3 – How did you shake off the nerves you had from first dealing with sponsors to now?

You get used to it. The first time is always the hardest. It’s still thrilling but it’s cool. Finding the main sponsors.  

Q4 What is a good deal with a sponsor?

Lots of money. The bigger the deal, the better it is. A driver needs to get value for the sponsor. Relationship marketing is a big deal with sponsors. Showing VIP’s is a part of it. It’s a cost for catering and other things but it’s about how can you get it done. The value you create has to be higher.

Q5 – Did you bring on the sponsors through your dad or was it a personal effort?

In the beginning, it was for sure as Xavier Maassen was still studying in International relations. It was a backup plan and sports sponsorship was my thesis. Xavier's uncle, his dad’s relations, his dad’s sponsorship’s as well. At the start, it was 70:30 between him and Xavier Maassen. But after he graduated, he took it all in fully.

Q6 – You’ve become a consciousness coach and a trainer as well – how did you get started?

As a race driver, you want to be better than others. Physically and mentally. One of the owners of the gym where Xavier Maassen worked out, he came back from Africa after a 4-day course, he inspired him to do it too. Then he realized what he wanted from life. He was so enthusiastic that he started it up in the Netherlands – and Xavier wanted to make myself better at it. Xavier Maassen then ended up doing all the training, learned a lot about myself as a driver and person. Then did the training program, and qualified. He wants to do what he does properly. Xavier was really just interested in the self-development of the program. Then he realized, he wanted to help others achieve their dreams and got more involved. So now that Xavier Maassen is accredited, it’s amazing. Mixing consciousness and what Xavier has learned from racing. He combines those as a keynote speaker. It’s about the background of how he got there, the choices where Xavier had fears in my life if he was going to make it. Stuff that people want to listen to. The motorsport makes the stories he shares more interesting.

Q7 – When did you first realize you wanted to be a trainer?

When Xavier Maassen started, it was just about doing it for myself. And over time, he realized it would be great to help others feel what he feel too.

Q8 – The irony of delusion is that you don’t believe you have blinders on and that you are not deluded – so you think you are the best decisions you know-how. How do you get them to see the real truth when they don’t know that they can benefit from opening their eyes?

Yes, we all have blind spots. And it’s about the right questions --- to dig deeper into what you know and look. What would you do without any fear?

Q9 – The same question can reveal new truths at different stages of life – so how do you get people to think they know the answer?

It’s a matter of digging as you said. Connecting to them, feeling what they are saying and not saying – you can go deeper with them and get results which they didn’t even expect.

Q10 – Can you give an example of something you discovered about yourself that you discovered which you didn’t know was there?

When I was young, I had an older sister with a heart condition, they went to the hospital to see her – I was 8 when she finally passed away. What I learned from the situation when I went to school – I was with the neighbors, uncle and aunt, grandparents but unconsciously – my parents are choosing her over me. As an 8-year-old it wasn’t obvious that I was doing this and didn’t make sense to me. So what happens, you have 2 options, everything I do doesn’t matter so and be a rebel or be someone who tries to get attention, and proves you are worth the attention. This meant I did well in school, became a great racer.

So in the past when I lost, I was pissed off for 2 weeks, it wasn’t the race, it was an attack on myself for not being good enough.

Q11 – As you’ve learned these things – maybe your aims have changed?

This was a huge self-discovery, and becoming conscious. The lesson was, I know I’ve done everything in my power, I’m not going to be sick anymore for 2 weeks. As a sportsman, I want to win, but the development and training have helped me be a better person.

Q12 – What kind of stuff did you do when you were an asshole?

Not being out the house, being grumpy. Throughout the training, everyone has a core drama, I’m not good enough to be loved, I’m not worth it. For example, if I have a fight with my wife, I still feel I’m not worth it, but now I see it.

Q13 – How has your definition of success changed over time?

If I have that sponsor then I will be happy. This was something that really drove me before. Success is different. Being able to do what I love most is something I consider. The proportions of the races you win are only 13-15% of the time. Then you are successful in motorsport.

I was always trying to go for more and now I’m happy for what is.

Q14 – What sort of myth, as someone successful yourself, can you help to debunk about success?

I struggle with it, I want to possess a porch on my driveway. I believe in the power of aiming for a goal, go beyond what is possible for yourself. It’s finding a balance between always charging ahead while being happy with what is.

Q15 – There is an extension for the goal?

Simon Sinek’s video of finding you why was really helpful. My bigger why is ‘sharing my passion for motorsports’ with other people. And the other way is that I want to show people you can live your dreams.

Q16 – Was that why you transitioned to GT?

I wanted to set out for Formula 1 – but in 2007 I drove the World Series for Renault. When I saw the sponsorship you need, and knowing I wasn’t the top 20 in the world, so I loved the endurance race. In a sprint race, you have to switch off and just go, endurance is more analytical which matched my skill set more.

Q17 – Was is it like to teach others?

35 entrepreneurs came where I had the opportunity to teach them and they wanted to enjoy a day of driving porches’ and just being a child on the track. Some others who I coach that come to really get better as it’s not their first time, I try and help them be better, it’s about sharing that same passion. Surrounded by people who also share it, you’re at Silverstone, it’s just a great experience. I get paid, and they enjoy themselves, they go away with a big smile.

Q18 – What message would you like to leave others about how they can achieve their dreams?

I have a video of me doing a James Bond dive off the cliff. It’s about getting over the fears that don’t exist. And taking fear under your arm.

Podcast with Host: Jai Shukla & Guest: Jeff Segal Q1 – How did you manage to get into racing since 2001?

Jeff Segal grew up around cars as his dad had a passion for the auto industry. Growing up watching racing on TV, he tried to kick down the barriers of convincing parents.

Q2 – What sort of barriers did you have?

Convincing his mum isn’t the worst thing in the world. And as a kid, it’s one of the worst hobbies you can have according to a mum! They got Jeff Segal a backyard go-kart but he was in 125cc kart – this was way over his head and hard to handle. It was sink or swim. Jeff is still in touch with the guy that got he into the kart and asked him what he was thinking. And his response was ‘You didn’t die, and things worked out well!’

I got into the cars by the time I was 15, 16.

Q3 – How did you go from a kart to cars?

It was like a video game to Jeff Segal, the transition wasn’t hard and learned manual racing. It was a steep learning curve. Driving cars that he really didn’t know how to but it has been sink or swim for most of my life and fortunately, things have worked out.

Q4 – How did you manage to get sponsorship and people to give you those opportunities to sink or swim?

Right place at the right time. One of his team-mates moved onto GT, left and he managed to get Jeff the opportunity.
And more and more just transitioned from there as they performed well.

Q5 – People see champagne in your face but what’s the reality that people don’t see?

The hard work is done away from the race. The race is just the last part of the entire thing. Finding the right people, the right drivers, the commercial backing. Jeff Segal managed to have a long and successful relationship with Ferrari and won some of the biggest races with. It took a lot to prove that the programs they had a worth supporting and gaining their trust to be able to compete at the highest level. But once you do it once, the barriers fall down and it gets easier and easier. Once you have some success, it’s easier to market yourself to other teams and be a part of that effort. It takes a lot to set it up. But it’s not that if you haven’t prepared you can’t win as you can always have a fortune but in reality, all the work is done away from the track  

Q6 – What is the % of the on-track vs off track?

I’d say 10%. Some high-level people just turn up and drive and that works for them but for me, it’s never been like that. I have to put in the work. I like to be actively involved, I like to know everything about the, team, the car, and the opportunities. And this really puts you in a great situation for the races.

Q7 – Being a private coach for Ferarri and sustain this – how did you manage that?

Better luck than good – is a saying. When I worked with Ferrari clients who want to learn how to drive who have no experience – they want to drive the cars and decide they want to become serious. Some go to GT3, and there is an eco-system which is easy to be a part of, with the dealers and the more relationships you create within the brand – the better it gets.

Q8 – People have said great things about your characters – how did you manage to create this reputation very well?

Probably owing to the traditional route. I have had to work harder as I didn’t have the long resume people normally have so had to prove myself. I have to understand the off-track components and tried to be upfront, transparent, but having a work ethic that is not just arriving empty-handed. Getting things done and being an active experience.  

Q9 – How did you start a company for a driving simulation called GPX lab?

Jeff Segal used to play video games and had a passion. But in FIA I had an experience in 2014, which was a race on the other side of the world, where I had never competed, and showed up blind for practice and had to share the car with 2 other drivers. You have minimal practice time, which is fair. Some other guys were up to speed straight away whereas I was still finding my feet. And after speaking to them, they said we used a simulator in Europe. It’s more readily available in Europe and the feedback is great compared to that in the US. So when I had a selfish necessity to use it and realized it wasn’t available in the market, I teamed up with some people in the UK. Purchased a simulator and we have a technical relationship with them too. And now we have found our own feet, added our own car models and things of that nature because I think simulations are needed for drivers. If you look at F1, Indycar and top-level racing – the big factory teams are preparing on a simulator and it’s really helpful. So if it’s helpful for them, it would surely be helpful for other people. Especially for a gentlemen driver and amateur drivers.  So it’s for people who need that time learning.

Q10 – What is the biggest difference between a simulator and the real thing and how much of a difference does it make?

The biggest difference is that there are no consequences for crashing. People don’t like to admit this but it’s true and highly affects the way people drive. It changes your philosophy. And what we try and push very hard on people coming to train is that what you put in, is what you will get out. You have to treat this like a real track. It’s okay if you crash, but it’s weird being in a simulator but if you are crashing 10 times in the 1st 5 laps it’s very unlikely that you would drive like that.

I have a lot of clients that use it. Using the reference lap for data, and look at the gears, where are people braking – and emulate a driving style starts to work. You get to learn other people’s lines and learn from them. See what works. This was extremely helpful. You don’t feel like you are on a new track. You know what you need to do when you get in the car.

Q11 – How are you spreading your time with so many things?

June is typically crazy but I like to be busy. Le Mans is a major race. Being surrounded by good people – other teams, good coaches. There are quite times too so during that time you do your homework and prepare.

Q12 – How can you help others to get to where you are today?

Have goals – not just long term goals. What are you looking to do and why are you trying to get there. These are things you have to question about yourself. I wanted to compete at Le Mans – it wasn’t something I stumbled into. I took decisions that helped me get there each step of the way. You are trying to finish well but you interact with the right people to be able to do that. The co-drivers, the teams, the manufacturers, the sponsors and if the opportunities arise – take them. You have to have a plan and then execute on them. That doesn’t mean it will always work out, but it’s about giving yourself the best chance.

Q13 – Discipline – how do you get it?

This is a big thing about the simulators that I see all the time. So many talented drivers. But you see their work ethic in a quick snapshot when they drive on the simulators. They struggle – they give up straight away. And it’s really important in the industry where so many people want the spot you want, that you have to put in the work. Especially when people are prepared to pay for a spot that you want to be paid for. This makes it a very cut-throat industry. And it means that you have to be critical about many aspects to be able to improve. And it boils down to how badly you want it. If you are willing to make the sacrifices, and not go out, the lifestyle choices, partying with your friends. All these things feed it. And there are plenty of drivers that don’t have the dedication but still got it all and there are those who try really hard and still don’t have it. So that says that if you try you may not get anything. But if you don’t try are guaranteed to not get anything.

 

Podcast with Host: Jai Shukla & Guest: Spencer Pumpelly Q1 – Put all the things in your life – in order?

Being a husband and father obviously, that has to be no. 1. No. 2 has to be a racing driver but it doesn’t really define all aspects about me. No. 3 – a runner, athlete. Spencer Pumpelly competes in the 10k and 5ks locally. 2-3 times a week. 60,000 people racing right near my house in Atlanta. His helicopter license doesn’t happen often but Spencer Pumpelly loves it too.

Q2 – You grew up watching your father race – how did that affect you?

My mum and dad both supported me. My dad took me to the tracks when I was young and when I saw him in the late 80s, where he did the whole championships. He told me not to do it but the 90s was a time where people were still dying from it.

Q3 – You started in 1996 – so it’s been over 20 years how have things changed?

The car was loud, bumpy – and when you get into the kart – it makes noises, laying down in it, and helmet on its different. 3 days of training were over – but Skip harbor was where I tried to make my first steps.  

Q4 How does your vegan diet get affected by being on the road and in different places?

My favorite track in Virginia – there aren’t many options there. But some places don’t have much. But you go to the same places to race so you know all the places and have 4 nights with 20 different places to choose from. So you don’t really have to worry. A Couple of months later it’s easier. My dad had heart issues – so it’s something I wanted to live better and think about my health. My cholesterol has come down by 100 points.

Q5 – How do you still fill the role of being a father and husband while being away on the road so much?

Spencer Pumpelly lives in Atlanta which is awesome as its pretty close. For the most part, his trips are only 3-4 days and direct flights. 2-3 weeks stints I try and reduce it.

Q6 – How many holidays do you squeeze in?

A couple of months of downtime – which is awesome during winter. If you can secure the next year’s stuff then you are sorted.

Q7 – You are coaching too – is that helping you become a better driver?

Teaching for me in Skip harbor has taught me a lot more about driving than learning. Teaching concepts you have in your own head while you are speaking to people who have never done it before, you get challenged. First few times you get asked you to make up and answer and then you realize you don’t understand the answer. You therefore try and find a solution to that to ensure you have a better understanding and can answer it properly. Racing to be is like problem-solving and whatever it maybe – you have to understand these concepts better. It’s improved my weekends. Driving is a small part of racing and it helps with many parts to it.  

Q8 – What do you do to stay at your best?

It changes every week. Sebring – our test day, we had to take a worse line because we had to avoid the bumps – This challenge won’t be used to again. It’s my team is when I’ve won.

Q9 – What are the aspects to driving people don’t know?

Only the driver feels what it’s like to be in the cockpit. People don’t get a sense of what’s going on inside. Getting the car to comply – the guy who wins – is when you have the best cars. Some days it’s about keeping the car on the track – when it’s trying to kill you. You got to have good people with you to make it happen on the day and work out smoothly on the track.

Q10 – What’s going through your head when racing?

The car you know very early if it’s on your side. There is big-picture vs small picture. The small picture is things like how am I going to go round this corner and stay on the track – and the big picture is how long do I have left vs how much do my tires still have left in them. The strategy is about other’s positions – tactically what is important right now? T

Q11 – You’ve had a lot of victories – what are memorable moments?

I won Daytona in 2006 that was amazing as I saw my dad driving there. Heartbreak, when you think, could have would have, should have. The take away is that you will always have challenges that you don’t expect and having people you can rely on – whether that’s co-drivers, managers, strategists, engineers, the crew guys, that can fix something that has never broken before, they come down to the pit road and they fix it without you losing any more than a few seconds – having those types of people is very valuable.

Q12 – When did you start playing the guitar?

When I was really young and my wife – told me to get a real guitar. When my son got older, we played ACDC, guns, and roses. At the age of 3.5 years old! We put a couple of songs together. With a little amp – and started playing and then started a little band. At 6.5 years old now – he’s got even cooler things to do.

Podcast with Host: Jai Shukla & Guest: Miro Konopka Q1 – How are you at the age of 57 still winning races?

Started in motorsport as a young boy. Miro Konopka had no money to start – he drove as much as possible.

Q2 – How do you compete with people half your age?

If you have the motivation – why not, what should Miro Konopka do? Sit at home? It’s his life, it’s what he loves.

Q3 – How did you get sponsorship?

His first word was ‘auto’. There is only one team in his country. They are a country for ice-hockey. Miro Konopka uses his money for motorsport that he makes through properties.

Q4 – How do you distribute your time?

80-90% before was spent on the business but the last 5 years, now that I have sold off quite a few things, the distribution is a lot more towards motorsport.

Q5 – You’ve participated in countless races – which one is your favorite and why?

Endurance races are my favorite. I race in Africa, Australia. But I love Uberich because everyone can compete since it’s cheaper.

Q6 – When it’s something like Le Mans where it’s high stakes – is there more pressure?

Yes, of course, a lot more pressure in certain races. But I like endurance racing because of my ages – I think it suits me better.

Q7 – How did you go from Civil Eng to real estate development to racing – was it all for motorsport?

I started in Civil Eng – and as a developer, it was good work. But I wanted to race for a long time. Full time in racing.

Q8 – When was the first time you got into a race car?

I was 33 – and when I first raced – I was last every time. I learned, through stubbornness – I got better and better. Same lessons in business.

Q9 – How do you keep up with people half your age in terms of training?

In my country, we play ice-hockey and that’s what I do for fitness. I don’t like fitness, running or swimming. I have good genetics for ice-hockey.

Q10 – Isn’t it dangerous?

The players are nice to me and don’t play too rough.  

Q11 – You’ve funded yourself – how did you find teammates and everything else?

I’ve been known everyone for over 20 years and developed a reputation of paying on time, ensuring everyone is happy and motorsport is a small world so it helps. People contact me, various engineers – if I say something I get it done, so people trust me.

Q12 – What effect has that had amongst the team members and how do you develop a good relationship amongst them?

In team – drivers are friendly – but everyone is having a great time. The gentlemen class is always about having a hobby.

Q13 – How do countries vary?

Every country is nice. Kangaroos on the track – it’s all novel in its own way.

Q14 – What do you feel people don’t know about motorsport?

People don’t know about the back end. 95% is preparation, techniques, a lot of work. People see 5%. Young people have a romantic idea about motorsport. It’s getting harder and harder every year.

Q15 – Over 25 years – how has it changed?

All cars are much more expensive. Let’s cars and more people. Hard to get sponsorship.  

Q16 – What message can you leave to help the fans to believe in themselves?

Believe in yourself. And be ambitious that you can do it one day, belief in your dream. Luck needs to be on your side of course but you must try.

Podcast with Host: Jai Shukla & Guest: Mark Q1 – In Russia there is a very little opportunity – how did you make it work?

Russians love football, hockey but motorsport wasn’t big at all. But my family is really
involved – when I was 8 I started go-karting. My dad really supported me throughout this
career of mine and I wanted to be an F1 driver. I live in the far east of Russia, near Japan.
This is very far from Moscow and thus it was very challenging to race. Only 1 go-kart track
and no proper race car tracks. This made it very difficult. Until I was 20, I didn’t get the
chance to drive much but the academy and Darren helped me get into it. They help you
develop better driving skills and the personality needed to race.

Q2 – How did you manage to the opportunities even at the go-kart tracks?

Initially, it was my dad but most people move countries to Europe but people near where I
live go to Japan or Australia. Japan is very competitive too – for me, it was a budget issue as
well. But when I went to Japan – you can feel the potential.

Q3 – As one of the first Russians in LMP1 – how was that?

I loved driving along with top drivers. It’s a shame that the project was closed.

Q4 – How does the team make a difference to the way you are able to race?

Funny question because it’s true. I went to France, America, British. British and Russian are
more similar. Whereas the Japanese are very responsible – and work perfectly. USA – very
positive. French people were the hardest – the English were bad and the connection to build
was hard. You have to know French.

Q5 – How does it really affect your ability to race?

You have a different feeling – the Japanese do everything perfectly. Everything is worked
on together. British family – we worked for a family.

Q6 – What is your dream in racing?

Hard to say – it was F1. As I get older and older – racing today is about marketing. It’s hard
to find a place that isn’t about racing. You need a big budget. I want to be a great driver and
the fastest – but if it’s about media, promo, outside of the car – it’s not easy for me.

Q7 – What advice do you have?

You should try it out – it’s unforgettable. It’s also about meeting cool people who have the
same vision as you. I still race in go-karts and coach people.

Q8 – What lessons do you bestow?

6-10-year-olds – it’s about braking, acceleration – basics about it. When they get older it’s for
them to decide where they would like to take it but I try and do my best.

Q9 – Did you learn this from your father?

I’m trying to continue my father’s legacy and it’s a business at the end of the day but we
really try and help drivers, learn and grow.

Q10 – What message would you like to leave the drivers?

There are many problems in racing like in GT. You should try everything, even if it’s track
days, etc. whatever it is, drive everything possible. Take every opportunity. Spending time on
the track is irreplaceable. Working with engines can help too.