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What Does it Take to Win the Indy 500?

From Sweden to Speedway, Marcus Ericsson shares how he became an Indy 500 champ, why he calls Indiana home, and his mission to support mental health.

Podcast Summary

In this episode of Get IN, I have an awesome conversation with Marcus Ericsson, the 2022 Indianapolis 500 champion and world-renowned Swedish IndyCar driver. 

We explore his thrilling journey from a go-kart enthusiast in Sweden to an IndyCar champion in Indiana. Marcus shares his experiences, insights about racing innovation, and the importance of mental and physical training. 

We also dive into his personal life, touching on why he chose to call Indiana home and his passion for mental health advocacy, especially as seen through his upcoming collaboration with the Avicii Foundation.

Whether you're a racing fan or interested in inspiring personal stories, this episode is packed with profound insights and heartfelt moments. Enjoy the ride!

You are going to learn about:

  • The training of an Indy 500 champion.

  • How Marcus Ericsson’s past led him here, and where he wants to go.

  • Why Marcus loves Indiana.

Thank you to our partner:

Check out these great clips from the show:
01:20 Meet Marcus Erickson: Swedish IndyCar Champion
02:35 Marcus's Racing Journey: From Go-Karts to IndyCar
06:37 The Physical and Mental Demands of IndyCar Racing
16:15 Winning the Indy 500: A Dream Realized
22:15 Life in Indiana and Reflections on Racing
25:03 Growing Up and Building Community
25:35 Choosing Indianapolis as Home
26:19 Settling in Indianapolis
27:26 Life Between Sweden, Denmark, and Indianapolis
29:46 Training and Fitness Regimen
30:41 Golf and New Challenges
34:40 Mental Health and Community Initiatives
37:10 Favorite Local Spots and Traditions
39:55 Celebrating the Indy 500 Win
41:45 Indiana's Unique Charm
46:27 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Guest(s)

Marcus Ericsson

Date Published

May 19, 2025

This podcast is sponsored by

Sweetwater

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

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Podcast

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Podcast

Share Your Indiana Podcast Guest

Know someone with a great Indiana story? Nominate them as a guest for the Get IN podcast and help us share real Hoosier voices.

Podcast

Share Your Indiana Podcast Guest

Know someone with a great Indiana story? Nominate them as a guest for the Get IN podcast and help us share real Hoosier voices.

A person in casual attire poses with a person in a vibrant red mascot costume wearing a baseball jersey that reads "Indians," both against a blue backdrop with text promoting "Get Indiana" with Nate Spangle.
A person in casual attire poses with a person in a vibrant red mascot costume wearing a baseball jersey that reads "Indians," both against a blue backdrop with text promoting "Get Indiana" with Nate Spangle.