How Brad Keselowski builds team culture is more than just about racing. It’s about connecting with people in meaningful ways. Whether it’s sharing a meal or working out with the crew, Keselowski’s approach goes beyond the track. As both driver and co-owner of RFK Racing, he knows that true leadership isn’t just about winning races – it’s about bringing the team together. What’s his secret?
Key Highlights
- Keselowski’s morning routine includes personal engagement, highlighting his leadership philosophy of valuing team members and fostering connections.
- Balances professional responsibilities with personal life, reflecting his holistic approach to leadership.
- His routine emphasizes the importance of communication and shared goals within the team.
- Incorporates activities that promote collaboration and unity, aligning with his team culture ethos.
- His leadership style is evident in his dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive team environment.
Brad Keselowski’s Life and Leadership Philosophy
Leadership is at the core of Brad Keselowski‘s life philosophy, seamlessly integrating into his multifaceted roles within RFK Racing. As both co-owner and lead driver, Keselowski embodies the essence of leadership through his dedication to the team and his proactive approach to challenges. His packed schedule might appear intimidating to many, yet it is within this whirlwind of responsibilities that Keselowski finds his rhythm and thrives.
His philosophy is rooted in involvement at every level, a reflection of his belief that effective leadership requires deep engagement and a personal touch.
In a revealing conversation with Kelley Earnhardt Miller on the Business of Motorsports podcast, Keselowski shared insights into his daily life, balancing professional obligations with personal commitments, such as school drop-offs with his children. This snapshot into his routine highlights a leadership style that prioritizes connection and groundedness.
“My weekdays start with taking my kids to school. It’s one of my favorite things. Growing up, I didn’t get to spend a lot of time with my dad, but one thing he always did was take me to school. That stuck with me, and it’s something I want to do with my kids. I’m not at the shop at 7 a.m.—I’m there whenever the drop-off line lets me out, and that’s okay. I love walking the shop floor. It’s probably my favorite thing to do.”
“You get called into meetings, Zoom calls, and whatever fire needs putting out, but walking the floor is where I learn the most. Nine times out of ten, you see something and think, ‘Oh, that makes sense.’ But every now and then, you come across something where you think, ‘Whoa, back it up’” – Brad Keselowski
Keselowski’s approach is not just about steering a high-performance racing team to victory; it’s about nurturing a culture where every team member feels valued and motivated to excel.
Under his stewardship, RFK Racing has witnessed a remarkable resurgence, a reflection of his leadership expertise. Keselowski’s hands-on involvement, combined with his tactical vision, has revitalized the team’s competitive edge.
“I love working out with the guys—and it’s not always my team. It might be someone from the other side of the garage.” Brad Keselowski
His philosophy extends beyond traditional boundaries, melding personal and professional spheres in a way that improves both. This holistic approach to leadership, characterized by active participation and steadfast commitment, offers a compelling blueprint for those aspiring to lead with impact and authenticity in any field.
Brad Keselowski’s Transition: From Penske to RFK Racing
When Brad Keselowski made the decision to leave Team Penske in 2022, he was not merely transferring teams; he was initiating a life-changing odyssey.
Stepping away from a well-oiled machine like Penske to take the helm at RFK Racing was a bold move, one that seemed as much about personal growth as professional ambition.
With RFK Racing, Keselowski found himself at the forefront of a challenging rebuild, embracing this new chapter with open arms and a determined mindset.
His shift was marked by several key elements:
- Rebuilding Tradition: Keselowski aimed to resurrect RFK Racing’s storied legacy, rekindling the spark that once made the team a formidable force.
- Visionary Leadership: His leadership style was hands-on, walking the shop floor, engaging directly with his team, and fostering a culture of transparency and innovation.
- Family Values: Balancing his professional duties with family, he emphasized spending mornings with his children, echoing cherished memories from his own childhood.
- Adaptable Schedule: Flexibility became part of his routine, allowing him to address challenges as they arose, ensuring that he was always present when needed.
- Problem-solving Focus: With a penchant for identifying and addressing issues, Brad showed a knack for finding solutions in unlikely places, often during his shop-floor strolls.
Brad Keselowski’s Involvement and Team Culture at RFK Racing
At RFK Racing, Brad Keselowski’s influence extends beyond tactical decisions, embodying a culture of collaboration and engagement. His hands-on approach is evident in how he weaves himself into the very fabric of the team. While victories might not be piling up just yet, Keselowski is a driving force behind-the-scenes, securing key sponsorships like Kroger and negotiating vital elements such as the tertiary charter. His dedication is palpable, resonating through every initiative he undertakes for RFK Racing.
A demonstration of his commitment is a video tour he shared on the team’s YouTube channel, offering fans an inside look at the headquarters. Keselowski’s enthusiasm is on full display as he highlights his favorite spot, the carbon room, emphasizing his deep connection to the team’s operations.
Moreover, Keselowski values personal connections, often sharing lunch with crew chiefs, team members, and managers. “Food brings people together,” he asserts, highlighting the importance of these informal gatherings. These lunches aren’t just about nourishment; they are opportunities for invaluable conversation and team bonding.
“I try to have lunch with employees almost every day—crew chiefs, team members, managers. Whoever it might be, the conversations are always valuable.” – Brad Keselowski
Alongside fostering friendship over meals, Keselowski integrates his workout routine into team culture. At RFK’s performance center gym, he frequently exercises alongside team members, even those from different teams within the garage. This shared physical activity strengthens bonds, reinforcing a sense of unity and shared purpose.
Through these efforts, Keselowski crafts a team culture at RFK Racing that’s rooted in engagement, collaboration, and mutual respect, positioning the team for future success.
Expansion Plans for RFK Racing in 2025
RFK Racing is poised for a groundbreaking year in 2025 with its tactical expansion plans. The team is making meaningful moves that promise to uplift its standing in the racing world. Under the leadership of Brad Keselowski, RFK Racing has secured a tertiary charter, marking a crucial step forward. By integrating Ryan Preece into the lineup with Keselowski and Chris Buescher, the team is set to increase its competitive edge.
This expansion is not merely about numbers; it’s a tactical alignment that highlights RFK Racing’s ambition. The acquisition of the tertiary charter from Rick Ware Racing is a proof of the team’s forward-thinking approach. This bold move has also attracted the attention of major sponsor Kroger, further solidifying RFK Racing’s financial and competitive foundation.
The inclusion of Jeremy Bullins, Keselowski’s former crew chief, is another cornerstone of the 2025 expansion. Bullins replaces Matt McCall, a key figure in the team’s recent successes, including the remarkable victory at Darlington in 2024. Keselowski expressed his gratitude for McCall’s contributions, acknowledging the vital role he played in shaping the team.
“Matt’s done a fantastic job, and I can’t thank him enough for what he’s contributed.”
“But bringing Jeremy back is exciting. We’ve had great success together in the past, and I’m looking forward to building on that.” – Brad Keselowski
- Tertiary Charter Acquisition: Strengthens RFK Racing’s competitive capacity.
- Ryan Preece Joins the Team: Augments the driving roster alongside Keselowski and Buescher.
- Partnership with Rick Ware Racing: Facilitates tactical expansion.
- Major Sponsor Kroger: Amplifies financial backing and brand visibility.
- Jeremy Bullins as Crew Chief: Reunites a successful duo, promising a formidable partnership.
RFK Racing’s New Collaborations and Future Outlook
Building on its strategic expansion plans, RFK Racing is embracing new collaborations to improve its future prospects. The partnership with the newly formed Haas Factory Team (HFT) is a tactical move that could greatly influence the path of RFK Racing. By providing specialized expertise and support to HFT, RFK Racing is not only showcasing its skill in motorsports engineering but also reaping the benefits of shared data and resources. This symbiotic relationship is set to boost performance metrics and introduce groundbreaking strategies to both teams.
Under Brad Keselowski’s insightful leadership, RFK Racing is more than just a team; it’s a thriving ecosystem, constantly evolving and adapting. His hands-on approach—whether it’s engaging with crew members in the garage or planning over lunch—demonstrates a commitment to fostering a collaborative culture. This is not just about building a team; it’s about crafting a legacy.
The integration with HFT exemplifies this philosophy, as it highlights a willingness to investigate uncharted territories and harness collective strengths.
Looking to the future, RFK Racing is positioned for an exhilarating adventure. The combination of strong partnerships, a robust team ethos, and Keselowski’s visionary outlook sets the stage for remarkable achievements.
With a relentless drive for success, RFK Racing is not merely content with participating in the race; it aims to redefine what winning truly means. As these collaborations unfold, the motorsport community will certainly watch with anticipation, enthusiastic to witness the unfolding of a new era in racing excellence.
News in Brief: How Brad Keselowski Builds Team Culture
Brad Keselowski’s leadership at RFK Racing exemplifies a groundbreaking journey marked by tactical vision and commitment to fostering a collaborative team culture. The shift from Penske to RFK Racing highlights a dedication to innovation and excellence, paving the way for expansion plans set for 2025.
With new collaborations on the horizon, RFK Racing is poised for a promising future, driving forward with a blend of tradition and modernity. Keselowski’s approach emphasizes the importance of adaptability and forward-thinking in the racing industry.
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