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Meet the Media: Madeleine Winer, Managing Editor at Tire Review

I am managing editor for Tire Review, a publication of Babcox Media. As managing editor, I report, write and edit articles for print and digital. I also write video scripts and produce Tire Review’s bi-monthly podcast, What’s Treading with Tire Review.

Can you tell us what types of stories, trends or issues are on your radar now?
With the coronavirus impacting all areas of the automotive aftermarket, my current focus has been on how the tire industry will fare the pandemic. From manufacturing to distribution and retail, I’ve been following how the industry has been affected at all levels. In particular, I’ve been checking in with tire businesses about not only how their businesses have been affected by the pandemic, but also how they’re innovating and offering a variety of services to retain their customers during this difficult time. I’m also dialed in to how tire manufactures are controlling their production and supply chain and how their businesses are adjusting to the economic effects of the pandemic.

Describe the craziest or most fun story you have written.
There’s no short of fun when writing for a tire industry trade publication—really! Some of my craziest and most fun stories have been from tire launches and attending manufacturer events where we can test their tires. I’ve driven on NASCAR speedways, desert trails, mud pits and various testing tracks across the country. I definitely never imagined doing something like this in journalism school, but I enjoy every minute of it!

What story or stories are you most proud of?
I’ve been fortunate to be able to delve into many interesting topics for Tire Review, but some of the stories I’m most proud of are my profiles on tire dealers for Tire Review’s Top Shop Award. The resiliency of these business owners and their commitment to the communities they serve is inspiring. Interviewing these Top Shops and sharing the ways they run their business allows us to spread industry best practices and create a community among our readers.

What elements or characteristics do you look for in a story?
I have a background in newspaper journalism, so timeliness is always an element that hooks me into a story. I also look for innovation, a strong character and impact.

How long have you been in journalism and how did you get started?
I’ve been in journalism for five years. My first job was a digital producer at the Courier-Journal in Louisville, Kentucky.

Finish this sentence: If I am not reporting, I am …
Writing or doing yoga! I recently received my 200-hour teacher training certification and am looking to start teaching classes via Zoom, and hopefully in person soon.

What advice do you have for PR people that want to pitch you?
Tell me how your company or an expert within your company can solve a problem our readers may have. As a reporter in the B2B space, I want to provide readers with solutions and data to help their business succeed. Tell me how you can help me do that.

Any pet peeves with PR people?
Honestly, I’m grateful for the PR professionals we work with in the tire industry. They understand the mission of our publication and are usually more than willing to help with any story we’re working on.

Tell us a little about yourself (family, interests, hobbies, background, etc.)
I’m a Ohio native, a word nerd and grammar girl. When I’m not writing, I love being active – hiking, biking, yoga, you name it. I also love to travel, cook and eat copious amounts of hummus. I also love spending quality time with family and friends.

You can follow @tire_review for news from the tire industry and connect with me on LinkedIn. I always love connecting with other journalists in the automotive industry.