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Julia Landauer: A Jack of All Trades

www.nascar.ca June 14, 2019

DJK Racing driver Julia Landauer turned heads on June 2, becoming the first woman to lead a lap in the NASCAR Pinty’s Series. Landauer is quickly establishing herself as a force to be reckoned with on the track. Off the track, she is a jack of all trades. Entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and Survivor contestant are among the many hats worn by the 27-year-old.

In 2013 Landauer, a New York City native, appeared on the 26th season of the CBS reality TV Series Survivor: Caramoan. Despite being the seventh person voted out, Landauer learned a lot in her 19 days on the show.

“There’s a reason it’s been on the air for so many years,” Landauer said. “It was an opportunity to challenge myself in a different way and I had always viewed this show, and especially the women who are on the show as super tough. I learned a lot. I would do some things differently now, it was a really incredible experience that I’m really excited I got to do.”

Being a race car driver isn’t cheap and Landauer is fully aware of what is necessary to pursue her dream. When not racing, Landauer has been building an impressive portfolio and helping keep the passion alive.

“I do motivational speaking, I’ve done corporate advising, employee engagement for corporations and content creation for various brands that I’ve been able to partner with,” Landauer said.  “It’s just really cool to try new things and see where I can provide value and what companies really like out of what I’m doing. At the end of the day, it’s really cool because the stuff I learned from racing and my experience in racing, are relatable to a lot of different people in a lot of different fields.

Fresh off her speech at a TedX conference in the Columbus Circle, Landauer’s message was to face your fears. Inspiring people is something that’s very important to Landauer. Being a role model is something that’s been willingly embraced by Landauer, she looks to be able to keep using her platform to give hope and continue to inspire.

“I really like the role of being a role model, I think it adds a level of responsibility,” Landauer said. “I’ve been so lucky that I’ve been able to pursue what I love, and that I’ve had such a great support system. So if I can give back and actively speak out to ways that women and minorities can go after their dreams too, and kind of show it in action.

“I think that’s a really special position to be in. I hope I can continue to inspire everyone to go after their dreams, no matter how much they don’t fit the mold or they don’t think they can do it. You’ve got to be your own biggest cheerleader. If I can help people build confidence in themselves, that’s a pretty successful thing to me.”

Being an American in Canada’s top national series can be challenging but Landauer was elated by her reception by the Canadian fans. She is currently scheduled for four more races this season (CTMP, Toronto, Jukasa, NHMS), fans on social media have been vocal saying they would love to see Landauer attempt a full season. She’s open to the idea, but more funding would be required.

“It was so wonderful to see all the comments from the fans and just feel like I was welcomed into the family,” Landauer said.  “I would love to be able to run the full season but right now financially, it’s just not feasible. We’re already starting next year’s planning.”

“I’m just trying to get as much quality time as I can. To be appreciated and welcomed by the fans and the entire country into the Canadian family was really special. A big thank you to all the fans.”

HAGERSVILLE, ON - JUNE 2: The APC 200 of the NASCAR Pinty's Series at Jukasa Motor Speedway in Hagersville, ON. (Photo by Matthew Manor for NASCAR)
Julia Landauer made her 2019 debut in the APC 200 at Jukasa Motor Speedway (Matthew Manor/ NASCAR)