Racing, Resilience & Rising Fast with Jordan DaCosta
At just 18 years old, Jordan DaCosta is already making his mark in drag racing. From earning his NHRA license in only three days to clocking a blistering 7.75-second quarter mile, Jordan’s journey is fueled by speed, determination, and resilience.In this episode of The BeDifferential Podcast, Jordan shares his earliest racing memories, why drag racing became his passion, and the mindset it takes to compete under pressure. He also opens up about securing 20+ sponsorships before turning 20, balancing life on and off the track, and the legacy he hopes to leave in the sport.Follow Jordan’s journey on Instagram: @jordandacostaracingFor more information and to explore other inspiring episodes, visit bedifferentialpodcast.comWhether you’re chasing a career in motorsport or just curious what it takes to rise fast in racing, Jordan’s story offers insight, inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look at one of drag racing’s brightest young talents.
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Inside F1 HR at the Azerbaijan GP with Irana Ahmadova
Irana Ahmadova is the force behind one of Formula 1’s most dynamic human resources operations—serving as the Head of HR and Workforce for Formula 1 Qatar Airways Azerbaijan Grand Prix. From managing tens of thousands of volunteer applications to developing meaningful, people-first strategies, Irana is redefining what leadership looks like behind the scenes in global motorsport.In this episode of The BeDifferential Podcast, Irana shares how she found her way into motorsport, how HR became her calling, and what it takes to lead a large-scale, high-pressure operation with empathy and purpose.We explore: How her journey began—and how motorsport unexpectedly shaped her career path What HR planning looks like for a Formula 1 Grand Prix Why over 31,000 people applied to volunteer in 2025—and how her team keeps them engaged The importance of flexible assignments, global placements, and talent retention How she measures success through both metrics and meaningful stories Her advice for young women looking to work behind the scenes in racing The leadership lessons she’s learned from F1—and from her team How to build pride and belonging in fast-paced, short-term environmentsIf you've ever wondered what it takes to run one of the world’s most complex racing events from a people-first perspective, this episode offers rare insight from someone leading the charge.🏁 Learn more about the Azerbaijan GP: bakucitycircuit.com and https://www.formula1.com/en/racing/2025/azerbaijan🎧 More episodes: bedifferentialpodcast.com
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Capturing Speed with Jonathan Grace
What does it mean to tell motorsport stories from every angle—audio, visual, and written?In this episode of The BeDifferential Podcast, we’re joined by Jonathan Grace: a dynamic motorsports broadcaster, journalist, writer, and photographer whose work spans Sportscar365, IndyCar Radio, and IMSA video coverage. Jonathan shares his journey from an aspiring creative to becoming one of the most versatile voices in modern motorsports media.We explore how he developed his creative rhythm, what it’s really like working behind the scenes on race weekends, and how he captures the emotion, speed, and atmosphere of the sport across multiple formats. From storytelling in the paddock to trends in fan engagement and content creation, this episode dives deep into the evolving media landscape of professional racing.Whether you're a fan, a future motorsport journalist, or a creative looking to break into the industry, you'll take away real-world insight on building a media career in racing—and how content creators are shaping the future of motorsport culture.Featuring:• Behind-the-scenes insight from the worlds of IndyCar, IMSA, and endurance racing• The balance between creative freedom and commercial work• Tips for aspiring journalists, content creators, and motorsport photographers• Reflections on racing culture, media access, and finding your voiceListen now and discover what it really takes to tell great motorsport stories—from trackside to timeline.🚗 Follow his journey on Instagram @jmgrace.media🎧 More episodes: bedifferentialpodcast.com
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Mentorship, Marketing & Making Impact with Gill Campbell
Gill Campbell is known for her fierce leadership and kindness—qualities that propelled her through two decades of trackside leadership and now drive her success in motorsports-adjacent marketing at AERO Marketing Group.In this inspiring episode of The BeDifferential Podcast, Gill shares mentorship lessons, team-building wins, and how she translates deep racetrack experience into business development strategy and brand growth.We explore:Creating inclusive culture on and off the trackLeading teams through high-pressure eventsWhat makes motorsport marketing partnerships successfulHow her time at Laguna Seca shaped her business lensBalancing authenticity and authority as a mentorHer bold vision for the future of women in motorsport and marketingFollow Gill’s journey and hear how fearless leadership takes many forms—on the grid, in the boardroom, and beyond.Subscribe to follow more women shifting the status quo in automotive and motorsport.More: bedifferentialpodcast.comAero Marketing Group: https://www.aeromkg.com/
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Legislation Meets Horsepower with Karen Bailey-Chapman
Karen Bailey-Chapman has built a powerhouse career at the intersection of public affairs, policy, and passion—now serving as Senior Vice President of Public and Government Affairs at SEMA, where she champions the automotive aftermarket and enthusiast community on Capitol Hill and beyond.In this episode of The BeDifferential Podcast, Karen shares how her career evolved across gaming, beverage, and now automotive—and why advocacy is essential for the future of car culture, motorsports, and small business innovation.We explore:How SEMA and PRI work to protect access to racetracks and aftermarket productsWhat the recent end of federal EV mandates means for enthusiasts and businessesBalancing EV innovation with ICE preservation in a changing automotive landscapeThe behind-the-scenes wins that safeguard enthusiast rightsHow legislation affects the average modifier, builder, or racerWays young people—especially women—can get involved in policy and advocacyKaren’s passion for the outdoors, her Jeep, and why her personal life fuels her missionHer advice for the next generation of changemakers in automotiveIf you’ve ever modded a car, tracked a build, or care about where the industry’s headed—this episode is for you.🛠️ Learn more about SEMA’s advocacy work: sema.org 🎧 More episodes: bedifferentialpodcast.com
Discover the stories and insights driving change in the automotive and motorsport industries. The BeDifferential Podcast highlights trailblazers, untold stories, and pathways into this exciting world, with a focus on empowering women and the next generation. Join us for inspiring conversations with industry leaders, racers, and visionaries breaking barriers and redefining what’s possible. Fuel your passion for cars, motorsport, and innovation—subscribe now and be part of the movement.
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