From Karting to Goodyear Racing: Jay Chapman on Career, Tires & Grassroots Motorsports

Podcast

In this episode of Late To Grid, Bill sits down with Jay Chapman of Goodyear Racing to unpack a motorsports career built from karting roots, NASCAR weekends, Grand-Am adventures, MX-5 Cup development, and now supporting racers across vintage and grassroots programs.

Jay shares stories of growing up in a karting family, wrenching and volunteering his way into professional motorsports, and eventually designing and supporting racing tires used across SCCA, NASA, vintage series, and more. He also explains how Goodyear develops products for everything from sprint racing to endurance competition — and what grassroots racers get wrong most often about tires.

Whether you’re a racer, a builder, or just love the industry, this episode is packed with practical insights, human moments, and amazing behind-the-scenes stories.

The season might be over, but the work is just beginning. Don’t let your track, autocross or racecar sit idle this off season. Now is the perfect time to tackle those projects that get you one step closer to the podium. For upgrades, maintenance, or that big performance project, there’s only one name. Atomic Autosports. Get ready to dominate next season. Find us at AtomicAutoSports.com and book a call with Bill to review your project and goals.

It’s getting to be the cool time of year and you’re ready for hot deals to update your car for next season. Now through December 31st, 2025, if you go Mishimoto.com and put in “grid15” you’ll get 15% off the entire catalog. The only exception we do have a blackout date during Black Friday through Cyber Monday, but through the remainder of the year, 15% off!

Searching for the perfect gift for the motorsports fanatic in your life this year? Skip the socks and head to Atomic Auto Sports! From Cool track decals and Premium Malco detailing products to Essential Trackside accessories. We’ve got everything for the track addict in your house. Make your holiday shopping easy. Visit Atomicautosports.com right now or swing by the shop to see the selection.

Atomic Autosports has some pretty big news! Track first now has a physical presence right inside Atomic Autosports. That means you can get your car Atomic prepped and grab essential safety gear, helmets, shoes, gloves, and more all in one spot. We can also have your purchases shipped right to our shop in Wickliffe, saving you on shipping. Stop by and check out the expanded selection.

Thanks for listening and taking an interest in growing grassroots racing. The Late To Grid podcast shares the stories and inspiration that help listeners along their motorsports journey.

Find all episodes on the Atomic Autosports website.

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