For millions of NASCAR fans, Jamie Little is a familiar face and a trusted voice, known for her sharp reporting and high-octane energy on Fox Sports. But off the track, Little has quietly built another kind of career—one that involved entrepreneurship, family, and some tough decisions far away from the roar of the engines.

Recently, Little opened up about the real reason she and her husband, Cody Selman, decided not to launch a third Jimmy John’s franchise in Indianapolis, despite months of planning and initial excitement about bringing their “healthy” sandwich business to the Midwest.

Racing Toward a New Challenge

It’s no secret that Jamie Little is a woman who thrives on challenges. Whether she’s interviewing drivers on pit road or breaking news from the garage, her work ethic is legendary. So when she and Selman, a former motocross mechanic, first entered the restaurant business in Las Vegas, it seemed like a natural extension of their drive.

The couple successfully owned and operated two Jimmy John’s franchises in Las Vegas, carving out a reputation for fast, fresh food and community involvement. For Little, the “healthy” angle was personal: “I’ve always believed in eating clean and living an active lifestyle,” she told fans. “We wanted to offer something convenient, but also wholesome.”

The Indianapolis Opportunity

After years of success in Nevada, the couple set their sights on expansion—this time in Indianapolis, a city with deep racing roots and a growing appetite for fast-casual dining. For Little, who now calls Carmel, Indiana home, the move made sense on paper. The Indianapolis market was appealing, the location options were promising, and the chance to build something new in her adopted hometown was tempting.

“We did all the research,” Little explained. “We looked at neighborhoods, talked to other franchisees, and started imagining what it would be like to serve Indy families.”

Life in the Fast Lane—Literally

But as the planning process accelerated, reality set in. Little’s broadcasting career was thriving—she’d recently taken on play-by-play duties for the ARCA Menards Series on Fox Sports, a role that demanded even more travel and preparation than ever before. Between weekends at the track, midweek production meetings, and appearances at events across the country, her calendar was packed.

“I love what I do,” Little said. “But anyone who’s ever been part of the NASCAR world knows how much time it takes. You’re on the road, you’re away from home, and your schedule can change in a heartbeat.”

Managing a franchise—let alone three—requires boots-on-the-ground attention, especially in the early days. Little and Selman knew from experience that success in the restaurant business isn’t just about good food; it’s about leadership, daily oversight, and a hands-on approach.

The Decision to Step Back

After much deliberation, the couple made the difficult decision to walk away from the Indianapolis franchise opportunity. Instead, they sold their two Las Vegas locations in 2024, choosing to focus on family, career, and a more balanced life.

“It wasn’t easy,” Little admitted. “We loved our stores, our employees, and our customers. But at the end of the day, we had to be honest about what we could handle. The time commitment and logistical hurdles just outweighed the benefits.”

For Little, the decision was about more than business—it was about being present for her family and excelling in the career she’s passionate about.

Fans React with Support

When Little shared her story on social media, fans responded with an outpouring of support. Many praised her for her candor and for prioritizing balance over relentless expansion.

“Thank you for being real,” one follower wrote. “It’s inspiring to see someone at the top of their game make tough choices for the right reasons.”

Others related to the struggle of juggling work, family, and personal ambitions. “You can’t do it all, and that’s okay,” another fan commented. “Sometimes the bravest thing is saying no.”

A New Chapter—On and Off the Track

Today, Jamie Little continues to shine as Fox Sports’ play-by-play announcer for the ARCA Menards Series, making history as the first woman to hold that role in a national motorsports series. She remains committed to inspiring young women in sports broadcasting and to supporting her local community in Carmel, Indiana.

While the dream of opening a Jimmy John’s in Indianapolis may be on hold, Little hasn’t ruled out future business ventures. “You never know what’s around the corner,” she teased. “Right now, I’m focused on giving 100% to my family and my job. But I’m always open to new opportunities down the road.”

The Real Takeaway

Little’s story is a reminder that even the most driven, successful people have to make tough choices—and that sometimes, stepping back is the smartest move of all. In a world that glorifies hustle and expansion, her decision to prioritize balance and well-being struck a chord with fans and fellow entrepreneurs alike.

As the racing season continues, Jamie Little will be right where she belongs: at the heart of the action, microphone in hand, sharing the stories that make motorsports so compelling. And off the track, she’s proving that true success isn’t just about what you achieve—it’s about knowing what matters most.