January 2025 Newsletter
January 22nd, 2025
In the News: Rebelle Rally Featured in Ranch & Coast
Ranch & Coast Magazine sat down with Rebelle Rally founder Emily Miller to discuss the origins of the Rebelle Rally. Emily reflects on her early experiences in off-road racing when very few women competed, and how that inspired her to create an event that invites women to say “yes” to challenges, test their limits, and connect through shared challenges
It’s a thoughtful look into what makes the rally so impactful—check it out!
Rebelle Impact in Action
Through Rebelle Impact, we’re proud to help change makers by funding initiatives through Kiva. Recently during PRI week in Indianapolis, Emily had the opportunity to meet Marie Watkins, founder of Polaris Talent, and hear how a loan from Rebelle Impact helped her business grow and evolve.
With our support, Polaris Talent rebranded and expanded into motorsports and automotive recruitment, building a strong presence in these industries. They’ve also launched new domain names to further their mission.
Marie’s passion for diversity in motorsports shines through her latest venture, DriveHer Consulting, a program designed to help women athletes and entrepreneurs develop the skills to launch and scale their businesses.
“[Rebelle’s] financial backing through Kiva allowed us to refine our mission, build our presence in this niche, and position ourselves as a trusted recruitment partner for motorsports companies. Polaris Talent is committed to becoming a go-to resource for motorsports recruiting, just as we have been for the tech industry. Moreover, we’re passionate about increasing diversity in motorsports. We’re committed to supporting and advancing women in the industry, ensuring they have opportunities to thrive at all levels. We could not have reached this pivotal moment without your support and I am grateful for you every day. On behalf of the entire Polaris Talent team, thank you for helping us turn this vision into reality.” – Marie Watkins, Polaris Talent, CEO
We’re thrilled to have supported Polaris Talent’s journey and look forward to watching their continued success!
Behind the Brand: Amanda Kachar, Director of Industrial Design at Milwaukee® Tool
We’re kicking off our first Behind the Brand of 2025 with Amanda Kachar, Director of Industrial Design at Milwaukee® Tool—and her journey is anything but ordinary. Amanda opens up about what drew her to tool design: solving real-world problems and creating solutions that professionals trust every day.
From the first sketch to a finished product in the hands of a tradesperson, Amanda shares how Milwaukee’s process is built on collaboration, constant feedback, and a laser focus on the end user. She talks about how time spent in the field—observing workflows, asking questions, and learning directly from users—leads to the kind of innovation that changes the way people work.
For many of our competitors who are women in STEM, Amanda’s advice hits home: stay curious, work with empathy, and never underestimate the power of listening. Amanda’s story is a reminder that great design starts with understanding the people you’re designing for.
And after hearing her story—and spotting her well-equipped Nissan Xterra—we can’t help but think Amanda would fit right in as a Rebelle.
Take a moment to read Amanda’s insights and see what makes Milwaukee Tool a leader in both innovation and impact. This one’s worth your time!
Ready to Rebelle? The Full 2025 Rebelle U Schedule is Here!
Our full 2025 Rebelle U Presented by Pennzoil Schedule is live! Whether you’re looking to sharpen your navigation or sand dunes skills, or dive into comprehensive driving and navigation training, there’s something for everyone.
What’s Rebelle U?
Rebelle U is the training arm of the Rebelle brand, designed to help you build skills, confidence, and lifelong success. With top-notch instructors, a proven curriculum, and unforgettable classes in stunning terrain, Rebelle U prepares you for rallying and beyond.
2025 Training Events
- Feb 22-23: 2-Day Navigation Intensive (Ocotillo Wells, CA)
- Apr 17-20: 4-Day Driving & Navigation Intensive (Ocotillo Wells, CA)
- Jun 6-8: 3-Day Navigation Intensive with Trials (Ridgecrest, CA)
- Aug 21-24: 4-Day Driving & Navigation Intensive (Ridgecrest, CA)
- Sept 4-5 & 6-7: 2-Day Sand Dune Driving Intensives (Imperial Dunes, CA)
We’re also bringing Rebelle U to Overland Rallies with 1-hour classes covering vehicle prep, navigation basics, and more.
Why Rebelle U?
- Expert instructors with decades of experience
- A coaching model to build and refine your skills
- Hands-on, scaffolded lessons tailored for success
- Fun, positive vibes in incredible terrain
Spots are limited—don’t miss out on the chance to train like a Rebelle!
Cold weather can be tough on your vehicle, so start your adventures off-road-ready by paying attention to seasonal maintenance. Check your battery health, antifreeze levels, and Scrubblades, and keep an eye on tire pressure—cold air can cause it to drop. Prep a winter-specific emergency kit with essentials like a thermal blanket, extra layers, and recovery gear. A little foresight can make a big difference in staying safe and keeping your adventures running smoothly. #LongMayWeDrive
Parting Shot
“Navigating by map is addictive. It’s so different from following GPS, where the line goes through the area and the area is irrelevant. On a paper map, the line could be a road, or it could be a stream, or it could be a crinkle from a bad fold. It’s the landscape that matters—the cuts between mountains, the dry riverbeds heading exactly where you need to be. Freeing oneself from the idea that the only path forward is a well-worn one? Inspirational.”
— 2020 Competitor Elana Scherr via Car & Driver Magazine
Photo Credit: Richard Giordano of Desk to Glory
