Why Racing and Auto Shops Go Hand in Hand With Rob Howden of USF Pro Racing

Rob Howden is the Director of Business Development and Series Announcer for USF Pro Championship Racing. Known as “The Voice of the Series,” he has been a fixture in motorsports media for over 30 years. He’s also the founder of Howden Media Group and eKarting News, where he continues to cover karting events across North America. Rob’s passion for racing started in go-karts and has evolved into mentoring and following drivers from childhood through to professional careers in IndyCar and beyond. In this episode… Motorsports is not just about speed — it's about precision, development, and community, from grassroots karting to elite IndyCar races. Many young drivers begin their journey as early as age five and ascend through a structured ladder system that prepares them for pro racing. What makes a winning driver in such a competitive and mentally demanding environment? According to Rob Howden, who directs business development and announces races for USF Pro Championships, success comes from more than just talent and equipment. Confidence and momentum are intangible but crucial elements that often separate the good from the great. Through decades of experience, Rob has witnessed countless young racers transform their skills and mindsets en route to top-tier success. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Rob for a conversation about the business and culture of USF Pro Racing, how tire dealers and shop owners can get involved, and what it takes for young racers to reach the IndyCar level. Rob also shares personal insights into his career, favorite race tracks, and where to find the best pizza on the road. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [02:20] The role of karting as the foundation of professional racing careers [03:18] How USF Pro Championships serve as a development ladder to IndyCar [05:26] Why tire dealers are naturally drawn to motorsports sponsorship [08:05] What sets top-tier racers apart: confidence and momentum [10:24] The mental side of racing and the importance of coaching [11:42] Rob Howden’s love for race announcing and staying active in karting [13:05] Opportunities for young racers to shine at high-profile IndyCar events [15:37] How businesses can get involved with USF Pro through sponsorship and hospitality Resources mentioned in this episode: Rob Howden on Instagram | X  eKarting News USF Pro Championships USF Juniors USF 2000 USF Pro 2000  Logan Leslie on Linkedin Main Street Auto Mike Edge on LinkedIn Tread Partners Quotable Moments:  “You can buy more tires, but you can’t buy confidence or momentum — that’s what really separates great drivers.” “I get to see a driver go from age seven in karting to winning at IndyCar — it’s the most rewarding part of my job.” “Every driver’s journey is different, but those who win usually believe they can — and that belief changes everything.” “Race announcing is just active spectating — I’d be talking through the race even if I wasn’t getting paid.” “Hospitality in racing is like being a VIP at the Super Bowl, but with way more horsepower.” Action Steps:  Explore USF Pro Championships opportunities: Visit USFProChampionships.info to learn how to attend events, sponsor drivers, or host customers at races. Support local karting initiatives: Connect with youth karting leagues to support upcoming racers from your area. Integrate racing with business marketing: Use motorsports partnerships to build brand visibility and entertain high-value clients. Invest in personal growth through sport: Reflect on how confidence and momentum play roles in your own professional success. Follow the full ladder of racing talent: Track future IndyCar stars by starting with USF Juniors and watching their rise through the ranks. Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners.  At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops.  By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches.  So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more.