In this powerful episode, Melinda Russell sits down with trailblazer Julie Giese, President of the NASCAR Chicago Street Race and a 25-year veteran of the motorsports industry. From her early days on a Wisconsin dairy farm to her leadership roles at Daytona, Phoenix, and now Chicago, Julie shares how she turned bold ideas into history-making events.
She opens up about the massive effort it took to bring a NASCAR Cup Series race to downtown Chicago—from working with the city, navigating a torrential rainstorm, and overcoming skepticism, to turning it into one of NASCAR's most successful and talked-about races.
Julie also reveals exciting updates for 2025, including:
- More fan-friendly viewing areas
- Lower ticket prices and kids 12 & under free
- A Zac Brown Band concert on the start/finish line
- Enhanced community outreach and inclusivity
Whether you're a race veteran or a first-time fan, this episode offers a rare look behind the scenes of one of NASCAR’s boldest and most innovative events.
🏁 Topics Covered:
- Julie’s path from agriculture to NASCAR leadership
- The vision and logistics behind the Chicago Street Race
- How her team overcame a 100-year rainstorm and still delivered
- What’s new for 2025: seating, tickets, family options, and more
- Why Chicago’s diverse cityscape creates the perfect racing backdrop
- The role of fans in making the event electric
- NASCAR’s commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and community impact
📍 Links & Resources:
- Get tickets: NASCARChicago.com
- Learn more about Julie Giese: NASCAR Official Site
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