imprimaturBMX

In this episode of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast Mike Hinkens talks with Albert Mercato about his passion project: Boxpalm. What started as an anonymous and personal outlet has blossomed into a positive and witty artistic “brand,” anchored in insightful puns paired with straightforward art and appearing on the internet, on clothing, and even on a signature bike. Listen to get inspired and then check out the project at instagram.com/boxpalm and/or www. boxpalm.com

In this episode of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast Mike Hinkens talks with Micah Kranz, the voice of 1000's of BMX stunt shows all over the world since the late 1990's. Be it announcing core BMX events, hyping up kids at school shows, or being the ringmaster of the infamous Nitro Circus, Micah always has something to say. They talk about the ins and outs of the “show-side” of BMX culture, the Olympics, and much more.

In this episode of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast Mike Hinkens talks with Russell Wadlin—OG Oklahoma trick innovator—about a slew of in-the-weeds topics. From “eras” in your riding to intentional trick selection, from design-based principles to life lessons, and from what it means to be “pro” to BMX compared with professional basketball, they dive deep on things you always wondered about (as well as things no one cares about).

In this episode of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast Mike Hinkens talks with Dillon McClain about his ambitious project to collect every BMX DVD ever made. From challenges in attaining them to fun facts to life lessons learned, they talk about 18 years of BMX history through the lens of the hardcopy artifacts our culture produces. Make sure to check out his account over at www.instagram.com/hardcopy_bmx_archive.

In this special update episode, Mike Hinkens sat down with Justin Schwanke of Project Spoke to check on the progress of Project Spoke as well as the effect that the Corona Virus Epidemic has had on it. They discuss where Justin has been, who he has worked with, wild stories, challenges, and inspirations, and also what's next. Project Spoke is partnering with OurBMX.com and imprimaturBMX.com for both original content creation as well as hosting the final project. Make sure to keep an eye out on those platforms as well as at instagram.com/projectspoke and projectspoke.com.

In this episode of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast Mike Hinkens talks with renowned ramp builder Ryan Corrigan all about ramps, living a BMX life through the mid-school era, giving back to BMX, and more.

In this episode of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast the listeners run the show. A while back, we posed 5 questions and asked for responses from anyone who rode BMX. The result: insightful and inspirational perspectives from 10 riders, aged between 20 and 36 years old, and in 5 countries and 6 states. Listen to hear what regular old riders are thinking and doing and then check out the original invite to see how you can get involved next time around: https://www.imprimaturbmx.com/bmx-breakdown-audience-invite.html

"From keeping our balance to exploring soul." - Richard Mungall

In this episode of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast Mike Hinkens was lucky enough to actually sit down with his childhood riding companion and good friend, Andy Kent, for a voyage through midwestern BMX history. This podcast was a bit different than usual in that it went the more traditional route of interviewing—in-depth—the guest and through that interview discussing past and present BMX cultural issues such as the importance of local bike shops and skateparks, developing style and taste, serious injuries, balancing BMX with the real world, and much more. 2001 – Andy's first major video part - begins at 6:54 - https://vimeo.com/83940931 2003 – Andy's last full-length part (while injured) - begins at 19:14 - https://vimeo.com/83941746 2008 – Team Get Serious – A week long video project featuring Andy and a few friends - https://vimeo.com/2097627 2010 – One badass clip - https://vimeo.com/15239972 2011 – Andy and friends shredding his backyard - https://vimeo.com/15459897

In this episode of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast Mike Hinkens actually physically sat down with Jeff Klugiewicz for his second imprimatur podcast and discussed living life after a life consumed by BMX. Jeff breaks down his choice to “move on” from being a professional and how it relates to most BMXers out there. We finish by discussing how to more gracefully make the transition from BMX life to the real world. Peep Jeff's first podcast here: https://soundcloud.com/imprimaturbmx/008-bmx-breakdown-jeff-klugiewicz-and-generational-tension-in-bmx-2018

Whether we realize it or not, the BMX bike is a tool for us to explore the world through all five senses. - The Mung

In this special update episode, Mike Hinkens sat down with Justin Schwanke of Weird and Revered crew to discuss the launch of an ambitious, exciting, and global BMX undertaking: Project Spoke. Mike and Justin discuss many details about this multi-video project including what exactly it is, the inspiration behind it, the people and places included in it, the expertise and collaboration making it possible, and what people can expect to see. Project Spoke is partnering with www.OurBMX.com and www.imprimaturBMX.com for both original content creation as well as hosting the final project. Make sure to keep an eye out on those platforms as well as at www.instagram.com/projectspoke and www.projectspoke.com.

In this edition of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast Mike Hinkens and Richard Mungall talked with the three main members of the Act Like You Know Cru - Brandon Galosi, Torey Kish, and Damian Racut. They discussed the history, process, influences, motivations, and aesthetics of ALYK and then moved onto a handful of contemporary topics such as over-saturation in BMX media, the balance between culture and industry, the growth of BMX, the DIY and self-policing ethos in hardcore and graffiti as it relates to BMX, music, food, and more. Music chosen by ALYK. Intro: Rigz & Mooch – Fall Outs. Outro: Dead Serious – Delaware Hall. www.alykcru.com

“An update on what's happened so far, where I'm headed with this podcast, and a little about what I've learned." - The Mung

In this edition of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast Mike Hinkens brings back Ryan Fudger (formerly of RideBMX and now of OurBMX.com) to discuss both media outlets, specifically some of the issues raised about them in our recent podcast with Trey Jones (https://www.imprimaturbmx.com/bmx-breakdown-trey-jones-ndash-bmx-smorgasbord.html). In this episode, they address perception versus reality when it comes to running a BMX media outlet, the role of BMX media outlets in the BMX industry and culture, and even that pesky @ BMX instagram handle.

A quick episode regarding news and updates about ImprimaturBMX. Topics addressed include: a note about cleaning up the website, updates about recent podcasts and articles, a teaser about a few new things coming soon, an apology, reminders about audience feedback for the upcoming Audience Podcast, some info about the Crew Survey Project, and of course, a reminder to follow us on Apple Podcasts, Sound Cloud, and instagram.com/imprimatur_bmx. In addition, here is the link to the Audience Invite Podcast I reference in this episode: https://www.imprimaturbmx.com/bmx-breakdown-audience-invite.html

In this edition of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast Mike Hinkens talks with Aussie BMX historian Ross Lavender about the actual academic study of BMX history and anthropology. Some of the topics they discuss include breaking down how we define eras within BMX, defining three demographic splits of BMX as a whole, understanding the component parts of freestyle versus racing, the place of a BMX Hall of Fame in our culture, and Ross's personal history project - Unscene History. (http://www.unscenehistory.com) SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIALS: In addition to the podcast, we have published Ross's essay "What is Freestyle?" which dives deeper into some of the topics discussed in this pod. Also, we have published the charts referenced in the pod. To read the essay and see the charts, CLICK HERE:

In this edition of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast Mike Hinkens caught up with pro-rider and Swampfest organizer, Trey Jones. They dove deep and discussed: growing up and changing in BMX, the drug free/straight edge lifestyle, the multitudes of local BMX “bubbles” that often divide us, what Swampfest is all about, The Olympics and the soul of BMX, the problem with BMX news versus BMX media, and much more.

In this edition of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast Mike Hinkens and Kink BMX team manager Jay Roe take Richard Mungall's recent Curb Cuts podcast to heart and engage in some (hopefully) constructive criticism of a few current BMX topics. They discuss the importance of sponsorships, the role of crews, the costs and benefits of BMX in the Olympics, and the oft heard phrase “BMX is dead.”

Freestyle bike riding trains us to have a mental flexibility that changes the very foundations of how we think about the world. - The Mung

In this edition of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast Mike Hinkens and veteran BMXer/OG X-Games employee Brian Tunney discussed the discrepancy between the perceptions and the realities about the X-Games as a whole. In addition, they discussed the impact (or lack thereof) of the Olympics on BMX and also the often contentious act of “being a critical voice” in BMX culture.

In this edition of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast Mike Hinkens sat down with Jon “Gremlin” Bechtold of Daily Grind and had a quick conversation about the life of an “average” life-long BMXer, running a small BMX brand, and the Straight Edge lifestyle (both on its own and in connection to BMX culture).

What is the fuel that already exists in BMX that could keep freestyle culture thriving? - Richard Mungall

In this edition of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast, Mike Hinkens had the opportunity to hear from Andrew Mick about the real-life challenges BMXers go through. Andrew opened up about how BMX was both a positive, yet sometimes disruptive force in his life as he shared about working through the loss of a parent, grappling with mental health issues, and coming to the realization that your own health and well-being are paramount. In addition, they discussed the complex, layered, and often misunderstood mindset of BMXers.

In this edition of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast Mike Hinkens and Richard Mungall are back together discussing the possibility of a huge paradigm shift in the economics of BMX. Starting from the question “What are BMX bike shops really for?” they discuss a new way of thinking about how we spend our money in BMX and, by proxy, how we give our support in BMX. From a model for a co-op style BMX shop/gathering place to the culture of free/discounts, the Mung and Mike lay down some heavy ideas drawn from outside sources that, if put into practice, could allow BMX to evolve yet again as the world around it changes.

Criticism is essential to the progression and long-term health of our freestyle BMX culture. - Richard Mungall

In this edition of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast, Mike Hinkens and Nick Seabasty of Dead Bread discuss the inner workings of running a clothing brand in BMX. They touch on multiple related topics including: the advantages clothing companies have in supporting BMX, the reasons why supporting local and rider-owned make sense, as well as the reasons why the economics of BMX do not make sense.

In this edition of the ImprimaturBMX Podcast, Mike Hinkens talks with Steve Caro of SCG Shoes about living and riding in Greenville, North Carolina during the golden era of “Pro Town,” as well as his personal history and how it ties into the complex reality of running a shoe company in BMX.

It's time to break a taboo in BMX. Let's talk about feelings. - Richard Mungall

What stories are we telling in our videos and media? In this episode I explore the many influences of the standard BMX storyline and offer some ideas to liberate more of our creativity. - Richard Mungall

In this edition of the Imprimatur BMX Podcast, Mike Hinkens spends some time talking with long time BMX industry insider and general creative mind, Rich Hirsch. Through a discussion of his experiences with video production, being a pro rider, being an art director, managing multiple teams and brands, and much more over the last twenty years, they discuss a multitude of topics including: the role companies play in modern BMX, the detriment of our racing roots, advertising through social media influencers, the ups and downs of Lotek and Stranger, authenticity in BMX, and much more.

What is our real motivation to “be somebody?” How may this get in the way of the social connections--and the connections with ourselves--that we truly want? - Richard Mungall

In this edition of the Imprimatur BMX Podcast, Mike Hinkens talks with OG style-boss Chase Dehart about growing up quickly and differently through a life spent riding while on the road. From mental health challenges and leaving school at an early age to being a parent and a professional BMX rider in this strange new era, Chase shares his perspectives on impact, being genuine, his BMX family, and much more.

The relationship we have with our bikes is always changing, even from one moment to the next. - Richard Mungall

A quick episode regarding news and updates about ImprimaturBMX. Topics addressed include: the new imprimatur Instagram account (@imprimatur_bmx), the new featured section on the site, Richard Mungall's new standalone pod series (Curb Cuts), and reminders about audience feedback for the upcoming Audience Podcast and the Crew Survey Project.

What is architecture for? Who decides? In this episode of Curb Cuts I reflect on how things like power and value systems manifest in the built-world that we ride in every day, and once again how the freestyle mentality offers a different approach for human beings.

In this edition of the Imprimatur BMX Podcast, Mike Hinkens talks with Nick Ferreira of Challenger BMX Mag. Amidst explaining what the publication is, why it was started, how it gets made, and who helps with that process, they discuss broader topics such as the larger BMX media landscape, seriousness, intentionality, and mockery in BMX, and the creation of various levels of media for diverse BMXers. Find out more about Challenger BMX Mag here: https://www.challengerbmxmag.com SHOW NOTES: 22:21: Neil Young quote is burn out than it is to rust 43:34: Holeshot network, not challenger network

What if that setup was just a little bit different? What if your life was a little bit different? In this episode of Curb Cuts I explore the “what if” spot. - Richard Mungall (@doinitforthestreets)

What does the absurd McDonald's creation called the chicken nugget have to do with bike riding and the process of creativity? Listen to episode one of Curb Cuts to find out.

In this edition of the Imprimatur BMX Podcast, Mike Hinkens sits down with renowned BMX filmer, photographer, and rider Jeff Zielinski for an in-depth discussion of multiple topics, including: longevity in BMX, the origins and development of the East Coast street style, the tension between ramp and street as well as tech and gnarly, and the illegality of street riding as a whole.

Curb Cuts is a new audio project where I explore freestyle bike riding and life while I wander around in the world. This is an introduction to what the project is about and a hint of what you can look forward to. - Richard Mungall

This episode is an invitation to all imprimatur BMX listeners to take part in the creation of an upcoming podcast. It explains how that process will work and how each listener can add their voice to the discussion of BMX culture and politics by sending in recorded answers to these questions: What is one of the best parts of BMX culture today? What makes your scene good to be a part of or worth visiting? What has kept you riding regardless of the challenges that arise in life? What motivates you to ride BMX? What is something you would say to someone who is down on BMX or who hasn't ridden in a while to get them back on a bike?

In this episode of the ImprimaturBMX podcast, Mike Hinkens and the highly-successful and widely-respected Pro BMXer Brian Kachinsky discuss BMX from the perspective of a paid professional, an X-Games Medalist, and also a down-to-earth street rider. They touch on topics including: being an advocate for BMX, riding for “big brands” versus “core brands,” and sponsorships and the concept of selling out.

A short message to the listeners of the ImprimaturBMX podcast and the visitors to the site asking them what they want to see and hear. Imprimatur was designed to fill a void in BMX media and with audience feedback, it can do even more to live up to its mission statement: “To shine light on BMX culture and politics through open, in-depth, and mature analysis in order to promote an informed, connected, and thriving BMX community.”

In this episode of the ImprimaturBMX podcast, Mike Hinkens reads through the article “Why Street Riding Became Such a Dominant Force in BMX Culture” originally published as a written essay on the ImprimaturBMX website. The "street riding" focused nature of today's BMX culture is quite obvious in many aspects, but also quite bemoaned by some riders. This piece explains why that has come to be as well as how "street" may no longer be as dominant as it appears.

In this episode of the ImprimaturBMX podcast, Mike Hinkens talks with RideBMX.com brand/content director Ryan Fudger. They take a deep dive into the story of RideBMX's transition from one of BMX's major print magazines to an online-only media site. Other major topics include: How the internet devalued print and led to the draining of resources from the industry, the murky metrics of the online platforms we now rely on for sharing media, and the evolution of RideBMX into an adapting and enduring institution of BMX.

In this episode of the ImprimaturBMX podcast, Mike Hinkens talks with the co-founder and head editor of Props Visual, Chris Rye. They discuss big themes like the relationship between, and the purpose of video in BMX culture as well as the BACO videos all the way up to the fundraiser that spurred “one last issue of Props.” Additionally, they dive into the origins, purpose, influence, and ultimate demise of the Props Video Magazine. Finally, they discuss the production and release plans of the upcoming and highly anticipated Jimmy Levan documentary: “Go Fast, Pull Up.”

In this episode of the ImprimaturBMX podcast, Mike Hinkens has a conversation with hard-hitting BMX rider Zack Gerber in which they explore a few controversial topics including: the politics of twitter, the ethics of doing stunt shows, reasons for growing BMX, modifying as well as building spots, and realigning the demographic focus of BMX media, industry, and culture to not only grow BMX with incoming youths, but to maintain it by supporting aging riders.

In this episode of the ImprimaturBMX podcast, Mike Hinkens talks with well-known rider and BMX videographer Grant Castelluzzo about how “riding videos,” regardless of their form, are a vital part of BMX Culture. Topics discussed include: Why we film, ABD's, the importance of full parts, the interconnectedness of sponsored riders and the act of filming, the democratization of media-sharing, as well as the complex ideals that guide us when making a video.

In this episode of the ImprimaturBMX podcast, Mike Hinkens talks with an early influencer and innovator in BMX, Dan Price. They discuss and analyze riding through the philosophical lenses of multiple Eastern perspectives such as Taoism and various martial arts. From Omote and Ura to “The Way” and from seen and hidden spots to going pegless, this podcast dives deep into the disciplines within BMX as well as “the essence of freestyle.”

In this episode of the ImprimaturBMX podcast, Mike Hinkens talks with Circuit BMX Shop owner Vic Bettencourt and discusses how important local BMX shops are to the culture and industry of BMX. From what local shops provide and how they contribute to our culture all the way to the challenges facing small businesses due to the internet and direct sales, this podcast aims to help listeners understand how brands, distributors, and local shops fit into BMX as a whole.