This episode goes beyond the wins. Maddie opens up about the pressure of competition, learning to handle tough days, and why finding the positives in every run has become one of her most valuable tools on and off the track. Her perspective on growth, resilience, and teamwork offers plenty for young racers, parents, and fans alike.
You’ll also hear how her role has evolved as a professional driver, what it means to be part of a racing team in a bigger way, and why family legacy still matters just as much as speed. Maddie’s story is a reminder that success in drag racing comes from preparation, self-awareness, and the people who believe in you.
Key Topics
[00:00:48] - Lift and jack safety in the shop and at the track, plus Freedom Race Lifts
[00:02:06] - Save the Girls touchscreen purse sponsor message
[00:02:35] - Meet guest Maddie Gordon: third-generation racer from Paso Robles, California
[00:04:53] - Childhood memories, racing as a family, and no Barbie-doll phase
[00:06:24] - Starting out in junior dragsters and racing through multiple classes
[00:09:54] - Learning clutch, shifting, and engine knowledge through junior comp cars
[00:10:48] - Moving into Super Comp, Top Dragster, and alcohol funny car
[00:12:05] - Handling tough days, setbacks, and staying motivated
[00:13:42] - Finding positives, diagnosing runs, and building toward excellence
[00:16:16] - Transitioning into Maddie’s first year as a professional race car driver
[00:19:47] - Season highlights, first semifinal run, and first Top Fuel win in Norwalk
[00:22:26] - Family schedule, support system, and how often they can attend races
[00:24:33] - Racing as a family tradition and a shared passion
[00:26:29] - Representation, family values, and learning to carry the Gordon name with pride
[00:27:16] - School life, missing class for racing, and staying disciplined
[00:29:46] - How racing has shaped Maddie’s identity and confidence
[00:35:12] - Where to follow Maddie Gordon Racing and Ron Capps Motorsports
[00:36:28] - Advice for the next generation: dream big, work hard, and build support
[00:38:44] - Looking ahead to Seattle and the Pacific Northwest Nationals
Relevant Links
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Freedom Race Lifts: https://www.freedomracelifts.com/
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Save the Girls: https://savethegirls.com/
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SendOutCards: https://www.sendoutcards.com/
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Ron Capps Motorsports: https://roncappsmotorsports.com/
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Maddie Gordon Racing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
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Ron Capps Motorsports on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
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Women's Motorsports Network: https://womensmotorsportsnetwork.com/
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NHRA: https://www.nhra.com/
Maddie’s story is a powerful example of what happens when passion meets preparation and family support. Her journey shows that racing is about more than results — it’s about growth, discipline, and the confidence to keep moving forward.
As her career continues to rise, her message stays grounded: learn the car, respect the process, and never stop chasing the next opportunity. If you love drag racing, women in motorsports, and stories built on heart, this is one to remember.