Digital Social Hour Episode Summary: "Inside the World of Professional Drifting & High-Speed Racing | Amanda Sorensen DSH #1241"

Release Date: March 16, 2025

In this exhilarating episode of Digital Social Hour, host Sean Kelly engages in an in-depth conversation with Amanda Sorensen, a trailblazing professional drifter and the first female to podium in Formula Drift. The discussion delves into the intricacies of professional drifting, the mental and physical demands of the sport, Amanda's journey, and her ventures beyond the track.

Introduction to Professional Drifting

Amanda Sorensen opens the dialogue by explaining the unique nature of drifting as a motorsport. Unlike traditional racing, where the objective is to cross the finish line first, drifting emphasizes style, precision, and control.

"Drifting is actually a very unique sport because it's more of a competition style. It's not like who is the first person across the finish line... There's a lot of mentality training that goes into it because you really just have one shot or you go home."
(01:52)

She further elaborates on the competition structure, mentioning the role of judges who score drivers based on line angle, style, and fluidity.

The Mechanics of Drifting Competitions

Amanda provides a comprehensive overview of how drifting competitions are structured. She describes the bracket-style format, qualifying rounds, and the tandem runs where a lead driver sets the pace for the follower.

"The follow driver has to be a mirror image of what the lead driver's doing... So then once they go and do their lead run, you swap, go back to the line, and then now it's your turn."
(04:59)

She highlights the technical aspects, such as tire management and the importance of staying within designated clipping points to maximize scores.

Challenges and Mental Resilience

A significant portion of the conversation centers on the mental fortitude required in professional drifting. Amanda compares the sport to chess, emphasizing strategic thinking and anticipation.

"It's similar to when I'm drifting. It's like you can prepare as much as you possibly can, but when you're actually, like, get up to the line, the nerves are applied, the pressure's applied. That's when it really matters."
(12:07)

She discusses techniques like cold plunging and breathing exercises to manage anxiety and maintain focus during high-pressure moments.

Team Ownership and Management

Amanda shares insights into her role as a co-owner of her drifting team alongside her brother. She manages sponsorships and personal branding, while her brother handles car management.

"We own it together. We have two cars, obviously, but we do all of the sponsorship funding... he does the car management side."
(38:34)

The duo plans to expand the team by bringing on her younger brother, making them one of the youngest team owners in the sport.

International Experiences and Motorsports Evolution

Amanda recounts her international racing experiences, including competing in the Extreme series in Saudi Arabia and racing in Scotland's abandoned coal mines.

"Scotland is crazy because the weather is never reliable... it's on the networks internationally."
(22:44)

She observes the shifting landscape of American motorsports, noting the rise of drifting and its growing social media presence compared to traditional NASCAR events.

Technological Innovations in Racing

The discussion touches on the advancements in electric racing cars and their impact on motorsports. Amanda highlights the capabilities of electric vehicles, such as precise power distribution and rapid acceleration.

"With electric race cars, there's so much you can do with the technology... You can't do that with a combustion engine."
(18:35)

She also mentions her involvement in developing front-to-rear power systems for electric race cars, showcasing the blend of engineering and driving skills required in modern racing.

Diversifying Interests: Pickleball and the Air Force Partnership

Beyond drifting, Amanda talks about her participation in a celebrity pickleball tournament and her collaboration with the Air Force. Her partnership with the Air Force involves demonstrating the parallels between racing teams and military units, emphasizing teamwork and precision.

"We do a lot with their recruiting team... highlighting the similarities between the racing industry and the Air Force and the military."
(29:59)

Amanda shares memorable experiences, including skydiving with the Air Force's Wings of Blue team and undergoing rigorous training simulations.

Future Aspirations and Personal Branding

Looking ahead, Amanda is focused on advancing her drifting career, expanding her team's scope, and enhancing her personal brand. She hints at an impending partnership with an energy drink company and plans to continue competing in various motorsports disciplines.

"I will be driving in Formula Drift and Prospect, possibly dipping my feet into some more off-road stuff... I'll be signing with an energy drink."
(40:09)

Amanda encourages listeners to follow her journey on social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube to stay updated on her achievements and upcoming projects.

Conclusion

Amanda Sorensen's appearance on Digital Social Hour offers a captivating glimpse into the world of professional drifting. Her passion, resilience, and innovative approach to motorsports not only break gender barriers but also inspire aspiring drivers and motorsport enthusiasts alike. Sean Kelly's engaging interview style brings out Amanda's multifaceted personality, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in high-speed racing and the stories behind the drivers.

Notable Quotes:

1. Amanda Sorensen (01:52):
   "Drifting is actually a very unique sport because it's more of a competition style. It's not like who is the first person across the finish line... There's a lot of mentality training that goes into it because you really just have one shot or you go home."

2. Amanda Sorensen (04:59):
   "The follow driver has to be a mirror image of what the lead driver's doing... So then once they go and do their lead run, you swap, go back to the line, and then now it's your turn."

3. Amanda Sorensen (12:07):
   "It's similar to when I'm drifting. It's like you can prepare as much as you possibly can, but when you're actually, like, get up to the line, the nerves are applied, the pressure's applied. That's when it really matters."

4. Amanda Sorensen (38:34):
   "We own it together. We have two cars, obviously, but we do all of the sponsorship funding... he does the car management side."

5. Amanda Sorensen (29:59):
   "We do a lot with their recruiting team... highlighting the similarities between the racing industry and the Air Force and the military."

6. Amanda Sorensen (40:09):
   "I will be driving in Formula Drift and Prospect, possibly dipping my feet into some more off-road stuff... I'll be signing with an energy drink."

Connect with Amanda Sorensen:

• Instagram: @AmandaSorensen
• YouTube: Amanda Sorensen
• Facebook: Amanda Sorensen

Stay tuned to Digital Social Hour for more unfiltered conversations with pioneering figures shaping today's dynamic landscapes.