Season 3, Episode 47 - Beth Paretta and Lyn St. James

Women Shifting Gears with Amanda Busick

It all started with a chat just prior to the start of the 2021 Indianapolis 500. Racing legend Lyn St. James has been a longtime advocate for women in motorsports and had basically run out of gas while carrying the banner for equality. But, when she witnessed first-hand what Beth Paretta was doing with her Paretta Autosport team at the Indy 500, she was refueled. She reached out to Paretta about forming an organization to help facilitate women’s participation in the sport they both loved and Beth was on board 1000% as she told Lyn – You are not alone. Together they contacted a team of about 40 women currently working as professionals in motorsport, along with some male allies, and a working group was formed in August 2021 to advance the idea to reality.

Today, The Women in Motorsports North America (WIMNA) organization is a community of professionals supporting opportunities for women across all disciplines of motorsport. By creating an inclusive, resourceful environment, the 501 (c)(3) charity looks to foster mentorship, advocacy, education, and growth to help ensure a successful and effective future for women in professional motorsports roles.

Beth and Lyn chat with host Amanda Busick about how their dream has become a reality and the opportunities and events that have already developed because of their new venture.

Two motorsport powerhouses in one podcast. This is a good one.