Abandoning The Amish For NASCAR: The Captivating Marlin Yoder Story | Dale Jr. Download

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with Hendrick Motorsports mechanic Marlin Yoder to discuss his departure from the Amish community and his one-in-a-million journey to becoming a NASCAR Cup Series championship-winning crew member. The conversation begins with Yoder’s perspective of living in a strict Amish community and his first time discovering NASCAR via the radio he smuggled into his bedroom. He relives the dramatic moments of leaving his family and community behind to chase a dream in an unknown new world.
Yoder didn’t know what a racetrack or the race cars looked like until he first laid eyes on a NASCAR television broadcast after leaving home. He instantly caught the bug to pursue a career in racing, and details his early days racing at a local short track. Dale Jr. and Yoder also discuss his efforts handing out resumes at race shops, breaking through in the lower levels and achieving the impossible at NASCAR’s highest level. Yoder’s story is one you won’t believe until you hear it for yourself.
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Chapters
00:00 Emotional Dynamics in the Amish Community
39:01 The Decision to Leave: Fear and Apprehension
41:29 The Departure: A Sunday Morning Escape
43:19 Leaving Family Behind: Emotional Goodbyes
49:58 Family Reactions: Begging to Stay
53:04 The Transition to Motorsports: A New Beginning
01:31:15 Starting Yoder Automotive and Competing in Short Track Racing

[@HendrickPerformanceTrackAttack]

We are so proud to have Marlin building our Track Attack cars! He's an excellent mechanic who does a lot more than just the front-end suspension. He does all the wiring, engine prep/installation, and everything in between on our cars. We are lucky enough to have Ferman Miller and Travis McIntire (who builds his street stock) as a part of our build team as well! Marlin has such a great story and is an even better person. Thank you, Dale Jr., for giving him a platform to tell the world who he is and where he came from!

[@daddysbrokegarage]

Was never a fan of GM when watching NASCAR, I haven't watched it really since dale passed and sterling retired. But I never miss an episode of dale jr down load I absolutely love hearing dale and R talk when he's on. You guys are an amazing team and dale is a fantastic human I am just a Mopar man 😂

[@tnwhiskey68]

Sounds like he is probably a good worker and I'm glad he works for the best!

[@chrismoroz9454]

Dale you are not just talented behind the wheel but behind the microphone as well. One hell of a great interview. Very well done 👏

[@deansutherland3570]

Well said 🫡

[@cashkenterprises5584]

This is one of the best Dale Jr Downloads I’ve ever seen. Top 5 for sure

[@shawns57garage]

I agree

[@timdavis5078]

This world sure could use not all but just a little of the discipline and work ethic and up bringing he had you can tell he’s a down to earth hard working respectful, and polite guy

[@user-iz9mu1qj8e]

I’m like you but my top five keep changing. They just keep getting better.

[@lazertagg8021]

This one and the one with Kerry have a similar feel.

[@davidkosa]

I have to give this man great respect to have the courage to leap into the unknown. Incredible story.

[@elonfux2492]

This might be my favorite one yet! Junior does a great job of asking questions that puts the listener in the guest’s shoes. I felt like I could visualize much of this story. The odds he overcame to reach the pinnacle of nascar are astounding and inspiring

[@andreazook6552]

I've agree! He really drew Mr. Yoder out. Definitely a favorite episode.

[@marywright6759]

This was very interesting. I have always been interested in the Amish. I bet there aren't very many Yoders in North Carolina. What a talented energetic man. I hope he realizes how God had led him in the steps of his life.

[@fishhuntadventure]

I have a great deal of respect for the people who exhibit the positive aspects of Amish and Mennonite culture. The work ethic is how he wound up where he is. Yes he had/has innate skill and good talents. However, within the relatively small number of people with those skills and competencies there are very few who have the commitment, dedication, work ethic, and willingness to achieve their maximum potential. Most people are fat and happy with mediocrity.

[@deanmabry2395]

This is one of the most fascinating interviews I've ever seen on this show. Loved it

[@brianwideman2342]

I agree😅

[@jozimoto]

Marlin Yoder's story will be legendary and it's not even over yet! Probably the best guest Dale has had on his show! Marlin such a humble hard working gentleman! It's kind of sad that his family really doesn't understand his success . Hopefully they will one day. Great job Dale!

[@StillYHWHs]

Success is different to some. It's not about money or fame.

[@jonkluver7912]

My mind is still blown. Chad had an Amish working on steering parts on the 48! This guy had a better chance of winning the PowerBall! He had a cousin connection down there, but still. I wonder what he gets paid at HMS. JR had a surprised look when Yoder said he made good money in his single bay.

[@ericlowery339]

I don't think Dale Jr realizes just how good of an interviewer he really is. He is able to ask the real questions that the audience wants to know while obviously coming from a place of humble, respectful curiosity. He really has a natural gift for it. This is a fantastic and riveting interview. One of the best on the download that I can recall.

[@Chadakins60.]

Your so right he gets the truth out of people it’s crazy how he can do it

[@kennethbastrom8848]

Also, Junior talks to these people like a fan of hard work and respect for their journeys.

[@deansutherland3570]

It's captivating this interview...

[@christophergill5914]

exactly what I came here to say after listening to the podcast.

[@shawnweatherford24]

Lol.. Yea ok

[@ryanlagoda1352]

A large Amish family lives two houses down from me and my race shop. Nobody in the neighborhood shows more interest in what happens in my shop than they do. Often times after I fire up the race car they will run they're horses up and down my road with they're single seater carts. They rubberneck staring at our place so hard..always makes me wonder what they are thinking and makes me wish I could invite them over This story is amazing to me..it tugs on your emotions good and bad....I like this guy.

[@wtxoil7334]

Why can't you invite them over?

[@tonyc6075]

Marlin Yoder's story is so incredible. I can't imagine leaving home at 17 to try to create my own life from scratch. What an inspiration!

[@ljprevo]

With no idea where to start with zero experience at anything. I am blown away!

[@erickwoodard9991]

I have no idea if anyone will see or read this, but I just want to say on behalf of all the dads that are out there with sons we want the best for, I am very proud of what you have accomplished in your life and career.

[@borgeskogentreningssenter7478]

Word

[@steveroper8733]

Wow….that may be my favorite interview ever. That guy brought his character and work ethic out of the Amish community and into NASCAR…and we are better for it.

[@The_ZeroLine]

Agreed. The work ethic bred into the Amish, Quakers, etc. must make them some of the best employees. I’m sure there are a few lazy apples even among them, but they’re likely 1-in-500.

[@bennythehammer]

Marlin Yoder is a straight boss. He bet on himself and then he made sure it was a winning bet. Bravo!

[@sherryswisher8911]

I want to thank Marlin for telling his story. FYI. Some Amish kids here will install a radio on a weekend in a buggy. It is crazy to hear a loud sub in the buggy. Yes they would hide them at English Neighbor’s. Dale this was one of the best shows!

[@jyoda55]

Being born Amish and raised in a far less rigid community it was great to see how Marlin handled this interview. Jr did a phenomenal job and you could see how relaxed and poised Marlin was. This is easily the best DJD ever. I was glad to see that Marlin’s work ethic and humility was so evident. Not wanting to be famous is very Amish. Hard to understand in the real world but his objective is to be successful to help others especially veterans needing a hand up. 10 ⭐ all aroun

[@bobsmyth9776]

What a great interview ! - I'm 70, raised in a racing family since The Womb, - had a street stock for 2 yrs. Etc... I have worked in Thee' Amish community for 12-15 years- in 7 different communities..and honored..so I know their life style .I know what one goes through when the leave the community. Thye give up friendships, family, family gatherings- weddings, funerals, work frolics ( barn raisings etc,) they give up so much plus being shunned-- it's a sacrifice you & I will never know.. You started out rough- asking questions and it got better & better every minute.!! I can't imagine doing an interview not knowing their background and Dale- awesome job !! And a million to one odds, yea....and you didn't rush the interview because without knowing his life, their life, how could the viewers understand ? I compliment you on your heart. I just wanted to let you know what this interview meant to me, an ex racer, car owner,lover of racing and someone who understands racing, The Amish and life with passion and goals. Again...Thank you for this wonderful interview.

[@DLPyke-vs9zp]

@bobsyth9776 very well said.

[@bidwell13]

I love this interview. It’s so real and not scripted. It’s basically Dale getting his curiosity answered and being real respectful about it.

[@blake002]

I’ve listened to almost every episode. This might be the best one I’ve listened to!

[@jameshathorn6960]

Not me anymore

[@davidlawson2326]

I am not Amish but grew up near an Amish community in Missouri. I was a child when my mother passed and my father hired a young Amish woman to help him out with me and my brother. Knowing some about the Amish community I found this story fascinating. Lucky people make their own luck. Great interview, great story, wishing Marlin nothing but the best! Awesome.

[@GregorySovine-bt9hj]

I honestly wasn't too stoked about this podcast when I read what it was, but it was a great episode. Incredible story.

[@husnaavhora6485]

What do you mean?

[@GregorySovine-bt9hj]

I love the podcast, I meant to say I wasn't too excited about the guest because I knew nothing of him, but it was a fantastic episode.

[@louisefrom8109]

This was one of the most interesting shows of Dales ever.Really like this show!

[@mistyessinger]

JR is one of the most humble souls!! 🙏💚👑

[@flyjarrett]

Mike Rowe always talks about people “Forrest Gumping” their way through life. Hearing Marlin’s story, I couldn’t help but think about that. He has the drive and the skills to succeed. He’ll make it…something tells me that we’ll be seeing more of him someday.

[@DanEBoyd]

I hadn't heard of any of that, but was still reminded of Forrest Gump! But Marlin is probably working with twice the intellect of Forrest Gump.

[@johnnyruby3904]

This guy is the most humble, hard working and love life person I’ve seen.

[@michaelsander6039]

What an amazing conversation. There needs to be a movie about his story. I’m so glad that even though they may not understand he is still able to have a relationship with them.

[@eastwoodsgolfer]

this interview made me want to rewatch Kingpin

[@djmeece]

What a story! I grew up about 45 minutes north of a large Amish community in central Illinois. You want to talk about precision craftsmanship…my parents built a home and 4-5 years after, bought a wrap around kitchen cabinet package from an Amish cabinet maker with lower and upper cabinets. They built them, my dad picked them up and installed them and they fit “to a T” in our home. The uppers butted right up to the trim around the windows, the lowers sat just behind the floor vents. You name it, it fit like a glove. Here’s the kicker…the guy who built the package NEVER ONCE stepped foot in our house! He built them off of the floor plans of the house and you would have thought they were custom built on-site as a part of the construction! Amazing skill, talent and craftsmanship! No doubt Marlin will continue to be a success in anything he puts his hand to! It’s in his blood! As they say, you can take the boy out of the community, but you can’t take the “community” out of the boy! All the best wishes to you Marlin!

[@Halfstep2024]

That’s two completely kindred spirits vibing with each other in conversation for two hours. Both of them legends in their own right yet neither at like they are above living in a pop up tent.

[@toofyus]

Absolutely incredible young man with a great story! Breaking ties to strike out and make his way in a new world! My God! And YOU Dale! Seeing the opportunity and bringing him to us with a blue ribbon interview. Bless you both for this amazing experience.

[@aubreyrachel9070]

Best story ever told on here

[@brycecrousore1985]

By miles and miles, this has been the best podcast not only in a racing, but anywhere on YT! Thank you for sharing your story, Marlin; you are such a wonderful young man!

[@Jackeryyrekcaj]

Blown away by how much of a standup guy Al was during all of this

[@alfredmitchell3792]

This is by FAR the absolute best episode the dame download has EVER broadcast! If it doesn't go viral, it's a huge loss for not only motorsports in general but a story of an ultimate life's journey of human determination!!!!! Congrats to Dale Jr by bringing this story to light. And a double, no, a triple congrats to Marlin for a fabulous example of determination!!!! Thank you to both of you fine men for telling this story.

[@kevindearing4704]

I've come to learn that if Dale Jr’s guest is a name I don't know, it's probably going to be one of the better shows I'll hear. This is an incredibly impressive individual, and I'm so glad I've listened.

[@brianhavey]

This was your best interview this year. Thank you for allowing him to give thoughtful answers to very difficult questions about his family. If there is a more honest man in NASCAR, I'd love to meet him. Thank you, Dale Jr!

[@buddyhume9297]

Truly an amazing story!! Marlin is proof that anything is possible if you want it bad enough …. So much respect for him.

[@Ezzz-of3gr]

Dale, you have a real talent for interviews. I Enjoyed that story very much... 👍

[@abritandhisbikeinpoland6802]

Dale jnr thank you sir for this. I'm an Englishman in love with Nascar since the 1979 Daytona 500, I've never been to your country let alone a race, but this has got to be one of the most beautiful stories I've ever heard in Nascar! PS. Its my birthday today, and this podcast was the icing on my cake, thanks man!

[@RIVERLORD-bf7uc]

Happy Birthday from SWEET HOME ALABAMA to you my friend . . .

[@NASCARFAN4EVER]

Who else Loves Dirty Mo Media?

[@cristydicola9100]

It's better than any therapy or motivational program out there. One of the few plac3s online that gets your mind off all the bullshit going on in the world.

[@Mikesacco1B]

It’s what got me back into NASCAR and Motorsports

[@teresagoodwin7458]

ME!!!💞🤗💞🏁🏆🏁 LOVE LOVE LOVE DIRTY MO MEDIA 💞🤗💞🤗💞🤗💞🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@AshtonG2022]

Me ✋🏻 this and Door Bumper Clear are awesome to listen to.

[@davecarsley8773]

Pretty sure your mom does.

[@bevnracin]

Captivating is the perfect word to describe this story ! I would like to add Brave , emotional, determined, fascinating, hard working successful. This is by far one of the BEST interviews I've ever heard Dale Jr !

[@snchilders]

Dale Jr., this was one of your best interviews, for sure.

[@backbeatwoodworks]

This is one of the best episodes so far. These are some of the stories people want to hear about. Huge shout out to you guys for putting the spotlight on the guys that make the sport go round.

[@midnight4539]

Great interview! Thank you for bringing us Marlin’s story. Fascinating.

[@dondormer6277]

I don't usually watch full episode podcasts... I grew up in Amish country in Lancaster Pa. I wasn't Amish but it peeked my interest. This was a great listen. Great interview... Two genuine people... I really enjoyed it.

[@rodgercottrill3342]

One hell of a story

[@rogerparliman1892]

Jr keep us updated on Marlin Yoder. Yes make this a movie! The best story ever told.

[@spencergardner3964]

Awesome, just wish he’d let him finish when he was trying to elaborate on stuff.

[@laurieerickson7205]

He still did a great job, I have to defend the both of them. Jr is trying to keep a timeline and learn the most he can. It’s kind of a skill in its own right. I get you though but he’s got limits and questions to get in

[@fauxpa61]

This is, without doubt the most compelling interview jr. has done, ever. Fascinating hearing about not only the Amish community, but also Mr. Yoder's decision and transformation leaving that community. I found his honesty to be refreshing and a nice change from the usual racing intercourse.

[@marklane3247]

This was the best show yet. Such a wild road from not knowing anything about ANY car, to the #5, and now his own business while still at Hendrick. Amazing!

[@axelstanger1088]

Great episode. They could make a movie about this guys life.

[@nmalueg1990]

This is definitely my favorite DJD to date. Absolutely phenomenal

[@MatthewHalinar]

Dale really showed his skills as a podcast interviewer. Excellent job! and this is a great story for anyone I am going to share it with my mom.

[@ChrisHuddleston-52]

I still believe Dale Jr still needs to consider interviewing having some grass root late model drivers on the show like Landon Huffman or Doug Barnes. It would be awesome to get some late model grass root racers on the show.

[@treystuart1999]

You have developed into a true master, sir. You always find a way to make everyone feel special. You are toohard on yourself sometimes. You are a good man. You are a fanily man. You are also someone your dad would want to be friends with. Stay you. From one Caronina boy to another. Raise hell! Praise Dale!

[@RIVERLORD-bf7uc]

I have lived in Hueytown, Alabama my entire 48 years. My great grandparents lived in Tennessee and there was a Amish community. They were always very nice and some of the best sugar cured ham, apple butter, sorgam syrup and jams and jelly's you ever put in yo mouth came from there. Was such a wild experience to go into their community and step back in time compared to the world I grew up in. Great episode Jr as always. You are becoming a legendary broadcaster before our eyes my brother. Wishing you the best from the HOME OF THE ALABAMA GANG. . . HUEYTOWN , ALABAMA. #12 #88 # F-97 #51 #28 #24

[@TheUnsociable1]

This was your best Dale Jr. Downloand to date!!! What a story, real life, real freedom. Best of luck to Marrlin Yoder.

[@MrKevin863]

I would love to see his story made into a movie that would be great. Great job Dale Jr

[@IanTheMotorsportsMan_YT]

The Amish community sounds so toxic and are stuck way in the past. I feel sorry for Marlin for going through the Amish mess. I've been doing my best to not be critical about the Amish, but his story when he was with his family is not helping me because of how the Amish community is. I am not saying "all Amish people are bad", but I am having a difficult time trying to respect the Amish community. So glad he is accomplishing his dream in NASCAR and living his life! A badass Amish kid, if you ask me!

[@danprymek1449]

This has been one of the best downloads I’ve ever listened to. Dale was very respectful with his questions. I didn’t want it to end, he should write a book on his life story. It would definitely be a book on how to be successful in life!

[@laurenbrownstein2458]

As a mother listening to Marlin's story, it is heartbreaking to hear what all he had to go through to feel a sense of being in today's society. Kudos for him for standing up for himself, but it's a shame that he had to leave so much behind. I know nothing about NASCAR racing, but I was compelled to watch this entire interview. Even if your parents can't tell you, there are many people out there who are proud of you. You have such a bright future ahead.

[@bobbypaluga4346]

Interviews often frustrate me because I’m aching for the interviewer to ask the questions that most interest me. At the end I’m disappointed more often than not. THIS INTERVIEW was incredible all the most interesting questions were asked by Jr with the most humble and amazing answers from Mr Yoder. I’ve never been to a NASCAR race but this channel is my favorite. I hope in the future I’ll get a chance to see a race.

[@jmscowgirljs]

This is by far the best podcast ever!! So well done Dale. You asked the right questions with so much respect. ❤❤❤

[@randalllimburg1010]

Dale. This is by far the best show you have ever done. Award WORTHY!!!!

[@adambrewer604]

Someone needs to make a movie on this guys life!! Absolutely incredible. Wow

[@georgewoosleyjr.4841]

This is the best Dale Jr show I’ve ever seen also

[@RPJ-nq4tf]

I’m 55 now. I lost my dad a few years back he was 80. He was rough and hard but The longer I live the smarter he becomes. Don’t sound like too bad of an upbringing to me. God bless y’all.

[@mailbag88]

This is a great interview. I have worked at Slinger for years and probably have crossed paths with him. Love story’s like this.

[@debbiesueshowalter3604]

This was the best Interview I have ever seen Dale Jr Does A fantastic job

[@tomblodgett7389]

Junior, probably your most interesting interview yet. We all learned so much about a lifestyle that many people dont understand. I can;t imagine him leaving that community and seeing for the first time what this world is all about. Think about his first time in an airplane, going through airport security etc, all of his first time experiences had to be amazing to him. Great job today!!

[@willpage7562]

Amazing story. Thanks Dale. I'll be looking up Yoder Automotive. Your interviewer skills have grown into something to be proud of.

[@dls0087]

Idk a thing about NASCAR but TikTok bought me here. This was a great interview! From the questions, providing a safe space for him to share his story. His story is going to help so many people.

[@heathhandyman5554]

So many amazing episodes on the DJD. This one is by far my favorite! Such an amazing story with this guy! He is a unique individual. I have no doubt that he will be successful no matter what he chooses to do in his life. His story is so inspiring and gives me as a new business owner more of a drive to be successful. This was such an amazing show DJ!!!

[@matthewgreenlee4631]

This is, hands down, the best guest on the DJD.

[@davidjanzen1665]

Dale thank you for the respect you showed, taking time to form questions, and listening. Marlin thank you for opening up, you showed a lot of trust.

[@eallend]

Man how about that! Dale jr is so in touch, at 43:24 when he said so she did love you? You can still marlin really thought about that like he hadn’t before that’s so cool. Great interview and great guys

[@TimothyKepner]

This has to be the absolute best conversations you have ever had on the download. From the bottom of my heart Thank You For This.

[@jerryredden9136]

This was the best interview concerning racing that I have seen.

[@Ratsstash]

I am Pa Dutch live near Lancaster Pa. This was one of my favorite episodes. You are a Hero to Any Amish that might want to leave to community. Very proud of you

[@blakelygober4241]

I haven't even got to the end of this episode and it's SO GOOD. I don't watch Jr's podcasts enough. Great job guys.

[@raventalks2776]

I absolutely love how Jr is so engaged and curious when talking to guests. I’m the same way when meeting people. Sometimes it awkward, but I am a curious guy

[@carlstephenson8901]

Incredible show! Hats of to Marlin for following his passion and making his dreams a reality! Says a lot about who he is as a person.

[@donnaziegler9130]

Jr's the best!

[@tmt4768]

Dale, I do believe this is your best interview yet. You asked really good questions, brought out some interesting and quite personal answers. Very awesome sir!

[@tommykr9]

His story needs to be a movie.

[@harlandrake266]

Dale, it is obvious life has given you a kind heart. You do a good job of bringing kindness out in others and helping us all appreciate what is important in life.

[@michelecole6432]

This was exceptional! I couldn't stop watching. Marlin deserves investors lining up to hand him money. He's laser focused on success.

[@mauramaroney1609]

This story amazed me. Marlin is incredible. What an amazing story of hard work, determination and resilience.

[@TheInternetsJanitor]

Saw a clip on TikTok and came to watch the whole thing. This needs to be a movie.

[@tnwhiskey68]

This is why we need to highlight crew guys again! Crew guys, track workers and flag men used to get talked about or shown during racing! I want a reason to root for teams!

[@lisakorenek8866]

Marlin’s story is definitely a movie in the making. 💯

[@happycamper7798]

What a great story! I love his drive and work ethic....we need more people like him.

[@RHDonly]

What an emotional roller-coaster this episode was. What a great story from multiple facets!

[@398willys]

Absolutely one of the most riveting interviews I have ever listened to. It gave me so many insights into a world that so few ever get to know. Marlin is a poster child for the old adage of "success occurring when preparation meets opportunity." Marlin's true character is revealed when he first turned down the big opportunity because he had given his word to work for another team! Dale Jr. has become a very compelling interviewer. His ability to shift between egos that fill the room to people like Marlin while still producing good stories is amazing. Thank You!!

[@wheelstandr]

Such an impressive job by Dale and loved hearing Marlin’s story. This has to be one of the best. The Yoder family should be proud.

[@VigAdventures]

Man I’ll tell ya…this one hit me square in the chest! I can’t imagine leaving my family knowing I’ll never be able to see them again. God bless brother, happy you found success and happiness 🫡

[@jackstjohn4175]

This could be a Great movie . Thanks for doing this poncast . I am veary inpressed by this young man ...

[@lananavan1885]

Definitely one of the best shows, I couldn’t skip any of it,🎉

[@Velanthos]

Such a great interview!! As someone who has relatives who were/are Pennsylvania Dutch, the questions asked here did such a great job of painting the picture for folks on the outside who only hear stories.

[@Hondosspeedshop88]

Thanks Dale and Marlin for putting yourselves out there! I watch Peter Santenello and he did a series on the Amish and Mennonites that is eye opening. I grew up near a Mennonite area of Northeastern Oklahoma then later lived 17 years near Arthur, Illinois. I shopped and traded at many Amish businesses including the Shrock Cabinet Factory, CHI Doors and several other small businesses in and around Arthur. Much respect to the Amish culture and I knew several who like Marlin, left during Rumspringa or soon after. Most honest, trustworthy people I know.

[@Uberswimming]

What a good, clean and motivational success story. No finger pointing, didnt blame others and full on accountability.

[@snappy452]

Popping over from the podcast side to comment on how good this episode was. What a frickin story. Dude absolutely needs to write a book later on in life when he has time and I too bet Yoder Automotive will be a successful chain. That boy just don't take no for an answer.

[@johnathandavis1341]

I don’t think I’ve missed an episode yet of the DJD. This episode was one of the most interesting story I’ve heard! Congrats to him for paving his own road!

[@dalegarey7824]

Dale, you handled this interview very respectfully, great job!!!👍👍👍

[@GregorySovine-bt9hj]

I grew up in a Very strict Baptist house, not saying it was nearly as bad as his situation, but I felt some familiarity for sure.