))
EP19: Finding Purpose (and Punchlines) Behind the Mic - Mikey Waynes, GNCC Announcer & Beyond
Manage episode 517978745 series 3674339
For nearly a decade, Mikey Waynes has been the comedic voice that fans associate with the energy, excitement, and heart of GNCC Racing. His quick wit and genuine passion for storytelling have made him one of the most recognizable voices not only in GNCC, but also in Pro Motocross, Loretta Lynn’s, Mini O’s, and beyond.
But behind the humor and race-day energy is a story of transformation. Mikey’s journey didn’t begin on a bike -- it started on a comedy stage. What began as a passion for stand-up evolved into an unexpected career behind the mic, where his love for people and storytelling found a new home at the track. Over time, that role became much more than announcing -- it became an outlet.
In this heartfelt conversation, host Heather Wilson Schiltz sits down with Mikey to talk about his path from local off-road events to national broadcasts, how racing gave him purpose during some of life’s most challenging moments, and what it means to step back from GNCC announcing after nine incredible years.
🎧 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
- How a stand-up comedy background prepared Mikey for live race announcing
- The hilarious story of how his wife (a 30-second card girl) led him into motorsports
- What it’s like to call a GNCC race when you can’t actually see the action
- Behind-the-scenes chaos of a typical race weekend and how announcers stay on cue
- Funny “hot mic” mishaps and the nerves that come with live broadcasting
- Emotional race moments — from Walker Fowler’s comeback to Kailub Russell’s 2025 John Penton win
- How racing gave Mikey purpose through a challenging time in his life
- The importance of mental health and community within the racing world
- Why now was the right time to step back from GNCC and what comes next for him
📲 Connect with Mikey Waynes
Instagram: @mikeywaynes
Facebook: Mikey Waynes
SPONSORED CONTENT: If you're a racer looking to show sponsors how you can bring value to their company, visit HighGearSuccess.com to view services offered by High Gear Success for racers.
-------------------------------------
Momentum: A Motorsports Podcast, powered by High Gear Success
👉 Want to connect or recommend a guest? Visit: MomentumMotorsportsPodcast.com
🔔 Subscribe on YouTube for more motorsports stories and strategies
📸 Follow @MomentumMotorsportsPodcast on Instagram + Facebook
25 episodes
Share
