Podcast Summary: Herm & Schrader – Episode: Danica Patrick On Her Life & Career in Motorsports

Release Date: February 20, 2025

Introduction & Personal Banter

The episode kicks off with host Kenny Wallace welcoming Danica Patrick to Herm & Schrader, a show known for its irreverent and humorous take on racing and related topics. The initial moments are filled with playful exchanges, setting a relaxed and engaging tone.

Notable Quote:

• [00:00] Kenny Wallace: "How you doing, Danica?"
• [00:26] Danica Patrick: "Makes me worried about what you're about to ask me."

Danica’s Personality & Self-Perception

Kenny delves into Danica's personality, referencing her father’s description of her as a jokester and exploring whether she considers herself "fun." Danica offers introspective insights into her self-perception, emphasizing her introverted nature and ability to entertain herself.

Notable Quote:

• [02:22] Kenny Wallace: "Are you fun?"
• [02:23] Danica Patrick: "I laugh at my own jokes. So I am fun for myself."

Exploring the Self & Personal Growth

The conversation shifts to deeper topics as Danica discusses her fascination with the occult and self-discovery. She reflects on how different aspects of oneself emerge over time and how her career has allowed her to express these facets through various activities like racing, interviews, and photo shoots.

Notable Quote:

• [03:38] Danica Patrick: "Life is just like a big cat and mouse game with ourselves, where we can't see ourselves. So everyone around us shows us who we are."

Racing Career Highlights

Kenny highlights Danica’s impressive accomplishments in motorsports, particularly her groundbreaking achievements in IndyCar and NASCAR. Danica humbly acknowledges her milestones, expressing both pride and a desire to have achieved even more.

Notable Quote:

• [21:35] Danica Patrick: "I had a really fun career. I'm so glad that I got to do IndyCar and NASCAR and I was someone that's done something that no one else in the world's ever done before."

Detailed Race Story: 2008 Indy Japan 300

Danica recounts her historic win at the 2008 Indy Japan 300, the only victory by a female driver in IndyCar Series history. She describes the strategic maneuvers, fuel-saving techniques, and the exhilaration of leading the race, culminating in her victorious moment.

Notable Quote:

• [30:25] Danica Patrick: "I just started early... I passed him, and I think I pulled away by like 5 seconds or something like that."

Transitioning to NASCAR

The discussion moves to Danica’s decision to transition from IndyCar to NASCAR. She explains her dissatisfaction with the increasing number of road courses in IndyCar and disputes with her former team, leading her to explore the more competitive and oval-centric NASCAR environment.

Notable Quote:

• [42:22] Danica Patrick: "I was just kind of sick of the direction the IndyCar was going... and I didn't enjoy that as much."

Challenges as a Female Racer

Danica addresses the unique challenges she faced as a woman in a predominantly male sport. She shares experiences of sexism, aggressive behaviors from male counterparts, and the mental fortitude required to excel and assert herself in such an environment.

Notable Quote:

• [64:09] Danica Patrick: "I didn't want to get beat by a girl... I saw myself as a winner and like a guy and really competitive."

Interactions with Other Drivers

The conversation touches upon Danica’s interactions with notable drivers like Denny Hamlin and Joey Logano. She discusses the aggressive driving styles and personal conflicts, highlighting the intense competitiveness within NASCAR.

Notable Quote:

• [56:48] Danica Patrick: "Denny can be a handful off track... he took me out in practice... that kind of stuff was totally unnecessary."

Post-Racing Ventures: Podcast & Winery

Danica shares her ventures beyond racing, including her Pretty Intense Podcast and her winery, Danica Rosam's Somnium. She explains the motivations behind these projects, focusing on health, wellness, and her passion for winemaking.

Notable Quotes:

• [71:19] Danica Patrick: "Podcasts were really hitting in 2019... it's all about health and wellness."
• [72:10] Danica Patrick: "I bought a property and started Somnium... I'm pretty excited for it."

Work in Television & Formula One

Danica discusses her role with Sky Sports in Formula One coverage, contrasting it with her previous television experiences. She appreciates the strategic and personality-driven aspects of Formula One, drawing parallels to her own competitive nature.

Notable Quote:

• [77:02] Danica Patrick: "I really enjoy watching it... I like it more all the time because I really know what's going on now."

Final Thoughts & Conclusion

The episode wraps up with mutual appreciation between Kenny and Danica. They reflect on their shared experiences, aspirations, and the importance of maintaining positive energy and honest interactions both on and off the track.

Notable Quote:

• [83:39] Danica Patrick: "I love your spirit... one of those needed spirits in the world."

Key Takeaways:

• Danica Patrick reflects on her multifaceted personality and her journey of self-discovery through racing.
• Racing Achievements: Highlights her unique accomplishments in IndyCar and NASCAR, emphasizing strategic prowess and resilience.
• Transition to NASCAR: Motivated by changes in IndyCar and disputes with her team, seeking a more competitive environment.
• Challenges as a Female Racer: Discusses sexism, aggressive competition, and the mental strength required to excel.
• Post-Racing Ventures: Enthusiastic about her podcast focusing on health and wellness, and her dedication to winemaking with Somnium.
• Television Work: Enjoys her role in Formula One coverage, appreciating the strategic and personality-driven aspects of the sport.
• Personal Insights: Emphasizes the importance of honesty, positive energy, and maintaining strong personal relationships.

This episode offers a comprehensive look into Danica Patrick's life, career, and personal philosophies. Through candid conversations and reflective storytelling, listeners gain a deeper understanding of her as both a pioneering racer and a multifaceted individual navigating life beyond the track.