Dale Earnhardt Jr. has publicly criticized NASCAR for neglecting to recognize the contributions of drivers like Denny Hamlin, whose weekly podcast helps promote the sport. This inquiry into why the Denny Hamlin podcast was overlooked by NASCAR comes as the organization launches a Driver Ambassador Program aimed at rewarding drivers for engaging with fans beyond the racetrack.
In recent days, Earnhardt has taken to social media to share his thoughts about how the sport rewards its drivers for promotional work. The discussion gained momentum after Joey Logano posted about his appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, prompting Earnhardt to respond with humor. Using a GIF from the Darlington race where Logano famously nudged William Byron out of the way, Earnhardt alluded to NASCAR’s new marketing effort, which offers financial incentives to drivers.
He commented,
“Joey with NASCAR’s new driver-centric marketing program that rewards drivers with financial incentives for promoting the sport.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., Team Owner
NASCAR initiated the Driver Ambassador Program in 2025, hoping to grow interest in the sport outside its traditional fanbase. Under this new system, drivers collect points based on how much time they spend attending and participating in promotional activities, with significant financial rewards at stake. Logano emerged at the top for the season’s first half, claiming a $1 million bonus, while Kyle Larson, Ryan Blaney, and Daniel Suárez also scored among the program’s leading drivers.
Debate Over Exclusion of Podcasts from Rewards Program
Despite the program’s intentions, some fans and figures within the racing community were puzzled when Denny Hamlin received no points for his regular podcast work. The omission sparked a wider conversation, with Earnhardt stepping in to defend the value of podcasting as a legitimate promotional tool for NASCAR.
He weighed in, stating,
“Amen! Weekly podcasts should mean more in the grand scheme of things.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., Team Owner
Hamlin’s show, Actions Detrimental, routinely breaks down races, discusses key events, and helps build a stronger connection with NASCAR enthusiasts. Produced by Dirty Mo Media, which also hosts Earnhardt’s own podcast, the program engages listeners weekly and pulls in significant attention to the sport.
Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s Influence Fuels the Conversation
Earnhardt’s opinions resonate with fans due to his stature as both a NASCAR Hall of Famer and an Xfinity Series team owner. Even after his retirement, he has remained active in bringing attention to the sport and its personalities. His comments highlight a broader question—how should NASCAR define what counts as effective driver outreach?
As an influential voice, Earnhardt’s defense of weekly podcasts as meaningful promotion pushes NASCAR to reconsider the scope of its rewards program. Many believe that whether a driver appears on national television or produces a dedicated podcast series, both should be valued approaches for engaging NASCAR’s audience.
With the Driver Ambassador Program still in its early stages, the current debate could influence how points and incentives are distributed in the years ahead. For now, Earnhardt and a growing segment of the community argue that content like Denny Hamlin’s podcast deserves a prominent place in NASCAR’s promotional strategy, ensuring all forms of fan engagement receive proper recognition.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get so rich?
A. Denny Hamlin started racing full-time in the Cup Series with Joe Gibbs Racing in 2006. He has become a legendary figure in the sport, achieving 51 wins in the Cup Series. Hamlin has also won the Daytona 500 three times—in 2016, 2019, and 2020—and has earned millions of dollars during his career.
Q. Did Denny Hamlin and Jordan Fish get married?
A. Denny Hamlin is set to marry Jordan Fish. As a child, she loved dancing, which led her to perform for the Charlotte Bobcats, now called the Charlotte Hornets. She first met Hamlin at one of those games.
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get rich?
A. Denny Hamlin’s net worth is believed to be about $65 million due to his racing success, profitable endorsements, team ownership, and wise real estate investments. Hamlin consistently succeeds, whether he’s driving a car or managing a racing team.
