Women's Motorsports Network Podcast

From Homeschool To Hot Laps: A Mom’s Guide To Growing A Young Dirt Driver

Melinda Russell Season 9 Episode 410

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A single bold ask can change a racing life. That’s what happened when a six-year-old named Everett walked up to Food City’s CEO and asked for a sponsorship—an audacious moment that launched a genuine grassroots journey, powered by family, faith, and a love for speed. We sit down with Amy Larson, proud “momager” and homeschool parent from Virginia, to unpack what it really takes to raise a young driver who competes with adults on dirt and keeps his head in the toughest moments.

Amy pulls back the curtain on their playbook: choosing karting over other sports, prioritizing track time to keep skills sharp, and treating the whole effort like a college fund paid in hours, reps, and relationships. She shares how Everett built sponsor trust early, why clean conduct and strong social media matter as much as pace, and how mentors like Corey LaJoie stepped in with shoes, a simulator, and priceless guidance. We talk safety, the transition from pavement to dirt, and the quiet discipline behind long Saturdays, late features, and early Sunday mornings at church.

You’ll hear practical advice for new racing parents—start within your means, avoid debt chasing fancy gear, and teach your driver to own the process. We spotlight the community that makes grassroots racing special: friends in neighboring pits, pros who open doors, and fans who become family. Whether the future leads to NASCAR, rally, or more dirt, the Larsons’ story proves that character, consistency, and connection can carry a young racer farther than any single win.

If this resonated, tap follow, share it with a racing parent who needs a lift, and leave a quick review so more motorsports families can find us. Your support helps keep these stories on the grid.

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