Show notes
On this episode of the MF Show, Rich Waitas and Jerry Zaiden sit down with Ryan Preece to talk about the road from grassroots racing to the highest levels of NASCAR, and the determination it takes to build a career through hard work, resilience, and a relentless drive to compete.Ryan reflects on growing up in a racing family and developing his skills on short tracks throughout the Northeast before earning opportunities on the national stage. He shares the realities of climbing the ranks without the resources many of his competitors had, relying on consistent performances, calculated risks, and a willingness to make the most of every opportunity that came his way.The conversation explores the differences between grassroots racing and NASCAR, how the sport has evolved over the years, and why staying adaptable is critical in such a competitive environment. Ryan also discusses the importance of maintaining connections to local racing, the lessons he continues to carry from his early days, and how those experiences continue to shape his approach behind the wheel today.Rich, Jerry, and Ryan also dive into the technical side of racing, from car setup and driver feedback to the relationship between drivers, crews, and manufacturers. Along the way, Ryan shares stories from his career, the highs and lows of competing at the top level, and the mindset required to keep moving forward through both success and adversity.This episode is an honest conversation about perseverance, racing at the highest level, and the passion that continues to drive one of NASCAR's most respected competitors.