My Back 40

In this episode I bring you a conversation with British Columbia's Mike Martin. There Were a number of riders from British Columbia this year and Mike Martin stood out.Although Mike hasn't been in the ultra endurance scene for that long he might just be a rider to watch as he continues to push his limits in the sport.In this episode I get to know Mike a little bit. We talk about Fatherhood, his work life, Tariffs (sorry), his previous adventures, as well as some stories from the trail.It was great to get to know Mike.Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 PodcastSave 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

I have been exchanging asynchronous text and voice messages with my coach Sebastien Rolland since October 2021. During that time, he has been a vital support person, mentor, and friend as I work on my own personal growth.As I work toward my own career in coaching and counselling, Sebastien has challenged my thinking in many life aspects allowing me to reframe my experience. To say that I have all these lessons nailed down would be a gross overstatement; We are all works in progress.In this conversation, we get things rolling with the question "What do you want to create?" This question can be a catalyst for any life decision you want to make, whether that's starting school or a new career. It can be the impetus of how you navigate your relationships and open up possibilities as you create the palette with which you want to colour your world.From a mental health perspective, I hope this chat will help people feel less trapped in their day to day lives and shed some light on the amount of control we actually have with the choices we make. So, what do you want to create?Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 PodcastSave 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

This is a repost of a conversation I had with Svein Tuft last year after he crushed the BCEPIC 1000 in 2 days and 2 hours. Svein is currently in second place on the 2025 Tour Divide and is in solid contention to setting a new record.My buddy Michael brought it to my attention that many might not know who this unassuming athlete is or his background and this podcast covers that.I hope you enjoy this repost.---------In this episode I have a chat with Svein Tuft, winner of the BC Epic 1000. Svein shattered the record riding 1,044 km with almost 12,000 m of ascent in a time of 2 days and 2 hours.Svein is a retired Canadian road cyclist who competed professionally from 2005 to 2019. He rode for several teams, including Symmetrics, Garmin–Transitions, SpiderTech–C10, Mitchelton–Scott, and Rally UHC Cycling. Tuft won the 2006–07 UCI America Tour and claimed thirteen titles at the Canadian Road Cycling Championships: twice in the road race and eleven times in the time trial.We chat about his childhood, his draw to doing hard things, what is was like riding as a professional cyclist and what drew him to unsupported bikepack racing, which is quite a departure from the pro tour but something that he has fallen in love with.Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 PodcastSave 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

In this episode, by popular demand, I connect with Alex Burk. This was one of those cold call episodes where we connect and just shoot the shit about... well, about a ton of things!Topics include; Cycling, bikepacking, her journey to becoming a Veterinarian, the "why" of doing hard things, the inclusiveness and safety of bikepacking events, her Lost Elephant experience as well as her recent ride of Caves and Coves.I had a blast connecting with Alex and I hope you enjoy getting to know her as much as I did.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

In this episode I bring you another great conversation with Dr. John Ogrodniczuk. This is the third time he's been on the podcast and it's always an honour to speak with him.John is a Professor of Psychiatry and Director of the UBC Psychotherapy Program, one of North America's largest medically based psychotherapy training programs. His research program focuses on a variety of psychotherapies and patient populations, with a particular focus on personality disorders and men's mental health. Dr. Ogrodniczuk has held several grants to support his research, which has led to over 300 scientific publications. John is also the Founder of HeadsUpGuys, a leading global resource for supporting men with depression. This episode marks a special occasion as his organization, HeadsUpGuys, is celebrating its 10th anniversary.In addition to his research, Dr. Ogrodniczuk is involved with teaching medical students and psychiatry residents, serves as a mental health consultant for various organizations, and maintains a psychotherapy practice.We had a lot to talk about in this episode, including a Heads Up Guys campaign called Step up for Him a campaign taking action in support of the millions of men across the globe – our brothers, fathers, partners, sons, friends, colleagues – who struggle with their mental health, often in silence. Clink the link to learn more about how you can get involved.HeadsUpGuys is the world's leading online resource for men's mental health. Over 10,000 people use it every week—but they have so many more men that we need to reach. STEP UP FOR HIMHey there! Want a simple way to support men's mental health while also taking care of your own? Heads Up Guys has something for you — it's called Step Up For Him, and it's all about moving with purpose.Here's how it works:First — get moving.Walk, run, hike, bike — whatever feels good. You can join in anytime between June 1st and 15th. Do it once, every day, or just when you can. Totally your call.This two-week stretch includes Men's Health Week and wraps up on Father's Day, so it's a meaningful way to show up — for yourself, and for the men in your life.Next — bring a buddy.Grab a friend, coworker, partner, whoever. Movement is always better with someone else, and sharing the experience does wonders for mental health. It's a simple way to build connection and have some fun along the way.Then — share it.Take a photo or video of your movement, add some of our custom “HeadsUpGuys” stickers (just search us up), and post it using the hashtag #StepUpForHim. Tag some friends to join in, and help spread the word.Head's up guys will be on the lookout for your posts to share on our socials — so yeah, you might get a shoutout!And finally — if you're able, consider donating.Every dollar goes directly toward programs that help men heal, cope, and thrive. Just $1 helps us get self-check tools to 8 guys. $5? That can help one man connect with a qualified therapist. That's a real impact.So, however you choose to Step Up — by moving, sharing, donating, or just talking about it — you're helping change the conversation around men's mental health.Let's do this together. Let's Step Up For Him.Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 PodcastSave 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

Just a short solo podcast to express my gratitude to the My Back 40 community for their support as I wait for some chassis repairs.I often encourage people to reach out and open up when things are difficult. We all go through difficult times and it's okay to share those struggles. Being temporarily disabled has been difficult for me and when I reached out to share, you all stepped up to give me hope and encouragement. This is just to say thank you.Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 PodcastSave 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

In this episode I chat (finally) with Mikey Coulter, ultra endurance athlete and the filmmaker behind Yeti Adventure Films.Mike started bikepack racing only a couple of years ago but is known for his grit and tenacity as a competitive cyclist. At the same time, he is able to film his adventures, demonstrating the rollercoaster that accompanies this type of racing.Mike and I cover a ton of topics in this conversation but the common thread are the stories. It's not surprising that, as a filmmaker, he's also a fantastic story teller sharing tales from his adventures.I really enjoyed this chat - I say that a lot, don't I. I think you will too.Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 PodcastSave 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

In this episode, I speak with Drew Raney - Educator, bikepack racer, and supporter of All Kids Bike, a not for profit organizations whose mission is to get kids on bikes setting them up for confidence and leading athletic lives. We chat about his Stagecoach 400 race, his rig, and stories from the trail. We also talk about his life as an educator and the value I think he brings to kids lives in supporting them to lead active lifestyles. We also talk about the money he has raised via his bikepacking efforts as well as through the All Kids Bike Organization to get kids the equipment they need for success.Thanks for your continued support! This one will come out a little early for supporters like you, but because of the importance of this week in Canadian Politics, I wanted to get it out to everyone as soon as possible.Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 PodcastSave 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

In this episode, I converse with, 83 year old, Bob Fletcher who holds the World Record for longest e-bike ride. Bob Started in Alaska and pedaled himself all the way to Panama Covering 13,500km in 5 Months and 5 Days.We chat about his young life, his career in the educational system, and his first foray bike touring in Europe. We discuss how he built is record breaking team and the logistics of traveling such a long distance by e-bike. He also shares his secret-not-so-secret tip for living a long and healthy life.If you want to head out to meet Bob, you can do so April 17, from 6pm to 8pm at Ebike Edmonton, Reserve your spot now, or at his book signing on April 22nd, from 12pm to 2pm at Audrey's books also in Edmonton.Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 PodcastSave 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

I love Trish. We always have great chats and this one is no exception.We connected a few weeks ago as I wanted to hear about her Baja trip as part of my own recon to want to tackle the route with my adventure buddy in the future. How much water do you need to haul? How much food? What are the people like? The wildlife? What tire volume? Trish shares all and adds a few stories in as well.This is Trish's 3rd time on the podcast. Check out these other chats to get to know this cycling power house better…012. Trish Holt - Experiencing the World by Bike145. Trish Holt - The Big Sky Spectaculaire & SobrietyI hope you enjoy this chat. If you find value in what I do, please consider signing up to my Patreon for as low as a cup of coffee.Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 PodcastSave 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

Just catching up… Lots to share about life and politics.We live in crazy times right now and I'd be lying if I said that it wasn't affecting me. Life changes aside, the world seems to be slipping into an abyss of Oligarchy. It's as if these politicians are taking queues from apocalyptical sci-fi movies. These scripts of billionaires taking over the world, oppression of it's citizens, dictatorships, and US federal governments lawlessness are leading to catastrophic times. It's hard to remain hopeful but all we can do is vote with our wallets and our feet and, in the upcoming Canadian Federal Elections, vote for the person who is most likely to lead our country to prosperity and not kiss the ring of the spoiled rich kid overseeing the destruction of the United States and possibly, if not stopped, the economic and natural world as we know it.Stay strong, Canada. And for my US listeners, I'm sorry this is happening to you. Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 PodcastSave 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

On February 20th, I lost my mom, Betty O'Shaughnessy, to cancer. She fought hard but in the end, cancer won the battle.I was encouraged to write while I was in Ontario with my family to support my mom during her final days, as a way to remain grounded. It was cathartic and despite writing being considered a distraction, it actually helped me to remain even more present and observant to all the tiny moments leading up to her death.I needed time to process my Mom's passing before publishing this novelette. Still, it was hard to get through as this piece captured moments that, when re-read, whisked me back to the event and the raw emotions shared with my family.I won't go on too much here as I want the story to speak for itself. Even though I thought I finished writing it, I feel as though I missed some important moments. One such moment was when my sister and I were going through old family photos, organizing them for the memorial service that took place only two days after her passing. This brought so much love and laughter into the space and I'm so grateful to have been able to share that with my family.Though this is a sad account and a chapter of my life that will forever be forged into my heart, I wanted to share it with you. I have never experienced loss like this before and I wasn't sure how I would cope. Luckily, I have a number of loving and supportive people in my life and a community of My Back 40 listeners to lean on. If I haven't already thanked you for reaching out with your thoughts, know that every word I received bolstered my strength and enabled me to get through this.Perhaps this is a little outside the box for My Back 40. For those of you who have been with me the last 5 years, you'll know that part of this project is to not only share stories from amazing people, but to also share a little bit of my life too. Or maybe a lot. My hope is that by being vulnerable here, it will encourage others to do the same. Life is too short to not be our authentic selves.Huge thanks to Rollingdale Cycle for sponsoring the My Back 40 PodcastSave 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

These are pretty fucked up times, so what better way to break the tension than with a conversation with Scott Losse.Uncle, Comedian, Biker, Snowboarder, IT guy - After seeing a string of laughable Reels about gravel bikes, anodized parts making you a better rider, and the joys of chihuahua ownership, I had to reach out to connect for a chat to get to know him better.Scott started doing stand-up in 2009 after being motivated by a person you wouldn't expect, and since then has been featured on Dry Bar Comedy, Laughs on Fox, and Sirius XM Satellite Radio. You can also check out his album Popular Doughnuts on SpotifyThis renaissance man was a blast to talk to and I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did. Huge thanks to Rollingdale Cycle for sponsoring the My Back 40 PodcastSave 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

Andy Ward is a ferocious beast with the energy and fervour of a Scottish Red Squirrel. His speed and race results may be the first thing that catch attention, but it is his boundless positivity and joy that everyone remembers. Andy is the first to offer encouragement. He loves nothing more than discussing gear choices and ride strategy, and he is right there to celebrate everyone's victories with equal stoke. Mr Ward single handedly blew the doors off of the Lost Elephant by turning what was once a 2 plus day race into a 35 hour race, many people will never forgive him for this, but we will all respect him for it. The aspect of Andy that may have surprised me the most is his attention to detail and preparedness. He seems to always be tinkering and finding ways to make his setup more efficient. I really admire his grit and determination, his fitness speaks for itself, but most of all I am thankful for his friendship.This bikepacking world is a funny one filled with even funnier individuals and at the outer edges are the extra unique ones. Andy is leading the parade of that fringe group within the fringe. He is one of our fiercest competitors, our most courageous adventurers and our most eager cheerleaders. Thank you Andy for being you. There is no one that could do it better.Hugs and kisses.Nathan Siemens.Huge thanks to Rollingdale Cycle for sponsoring the My Back 40 PodcastSave 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

In this episode I chat about winter riding, politics, motivation and mental health.This can be a hard time for many folks dealing with S.A.D.D. Thanks to the earth's tilt, we're seeing colder temperatures and less light. Just keep in mind that as if December 21st days are going to start to get longer again, so hang in there.Another significant date that is coming up is Blue Monday which happen on January 20th, 2025. Here's a Wiki about it. Deemed the saddest day of the year based on a multitude of factors, it's a time of higher than normal suicide levels. With this in mind, keep an eye on your loved ones.My advice? Try to find beauty in all things this winter. Layer up and get outside, especially on those blue bird sunny days. I guarantee it will give you a lift.Huge thanks to Rollingdale Cycle for sponsoring the My Back 40 PodcastSave 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

In this episode I speak with Nathan Siemens and Dean Dahl about their winter ultra ride called Cold Ride happening February 1st, 2025 with two options.FREEZIE 55km. 870m. Roll through beautiful single-track trails and quiet backroads for a fun adventure with amazing people. You got this!THE BIG CHILL 130km. 1700m. Take winter adventure to the next level riding epic backroads and trails showcasing postcard views of sweeping East Kootenay vistas. This route will challenge your limits in one of your most unique cycling adventures! Race for podium cash, or take your time to savour this unforgettable day out.We all know Nathan and his crew who develop the lost elephant ultra series so we don't need to go on about him haha. Dean is the founder of Have a Good Ride haveagoodride.com. They build experiences that connect great people, and beautiful places and help you accomplish good things in the world by doing something you love.All Goodride events support local charities who serve their community. Proceeds from your event registration will contribute to the good work of local volunteers who you will meet at the event!Huge thanks to Rollingdale Cycle for sponsoring the My Back 40 PodcastSave 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling.

Well, it's been a summer of adventure and change. I haven't been around much taking a much needed sabbatical as I evaluate the next chapter of my life.There were many balls in the air the last few months; Unemployment, kid's being off for the summer, parenting schedule, coparenting challenges, potential re-education, travel and adventure.For those of you continuing to support me here on Patreon, I appreciate you. My hope is that this podcast is somewhat coherent and enjoyable.Thanks againSponsored by Rollingdale CycleSave 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Thanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

In this episode, I bring you a conversation with Graham Mann the new man at the helm of RollingDale Cycles.It all started with a titanium hammer. This purchase led to Graham living his dream of building thoughtfully designed, high performance titanium bicycles for the discerning cyclist.Founded in 2016, Dale Marchand wanted to bring the world of custom bikes to the people who understood the importance of, not only the fit of the bike, but also the detail with which it is built. Every customer has a hand in the design so that the end product is one of the highest quality and performance possible. Graham's intention is continue this ethos as the new helmsman.You will hear in the conversation that Graham is passionate about what he does and can't wait to continue the legacy of RollingDale Cycles.I wanted to thank everyone for their continued support over the summer while I try to figure out life. I'll tell you more in my monologue what has been going on and what my future plans are.Again, thank you for your continued support. I love you all.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

In this episode I bring you a conversation with Nick Pollard. @thepeopledispleaser. Nick focuses on setting boundaries, people pleasing, and personal growth.Nick has been in the coaching space since around 2010. In those days, he was a dating coach helping men build confidence. Now he's about helping men to show up better.This is a part 1 so if you have any feedback about this podcast and want to send me questions to ask Nick when we connect for a part 2, send them my way.Nick is very direct and honest with his opinions. He pushes back on a couple of the things I say which always makes for a great conversation.I hope you enjoy this one and find some takeaways.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

In this episode I have a chat with Svein Tuft, winner of the BC Epic 1000. Svein shattered the record riding 1,044 km with almost 12,000 m of ascent in a time of 2 days and 2 hours.Svein is a retired Canadian road cyclist who competed professionally from 2005 to 2019. He rode for several teams, including Symmetrics, Garmin–Transitions, SpiderTech–C10, Mitchelton–Scott, and Rally UHC Cycling. Tuft won the 2006–07 UCI America Tour and claimed thirteen titles at the Canadian Road Cycling Championships: twice in the road race and eleven times in the time trial.We chat about his childhood, his draw to doing hard things, what is was like riding as a professional cyclist and what drew him to unsupported bikepack racing, which is quite a departure from the pro tour but something that he has fallen in love with.I hope you are enjoying these early access podcasts. Thanks for your continued support.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

I'm so proud to bring you a conversation with Meaghan Hackinen, woman's winner of the 2024 Tour Divide. 4,400 km, 60,000m of elevation gain in just 15 days 22 hours. Between the cold temperatures, the rain, the snow, and the peanut butter mud, to say that she crushed this route would be an understatement.To witness Meaghan's transformation into a formidable off road bikepack racing athlete from the world or road specific ultra endurance racing has been a joy. Her positive mindset despite the conditions this year is beyond impressive.In this conversation we talked about how she maintained her positive mindset despite the adversity of this years course and conditions, and some of the challenges she faced along the way. We chat about women's participation in these events and discuss the supportive nature that exists in the community. I really enjoyed this chat and I hope you do too.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

In this episode, I chat with Curtis Litun of Pink Weasel Coffee Company.Curtis is an entrepreneur and has been part of 4 different small businesses. Most of you may know him from his premium clothing line, Spandex Panda, but recently Curtis has also begun roasting premium coffee.We recorded this podcast in the roastery that he has set up in his home. Coming from a roasting background myself, I can attest that Curtis pours a lot of love and passion into Pink Weasel - you can taste it.Not only did we record in his roastery, we chat while he roasts up an order for production. Visit Pink Weasel to learn more.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

Exclusive content announcement. Starting with "Vibe of the Divide', I am going to start offering exclusive content to supporters starting at the $5 level. Certain episodes will be available to supporters, while truncated versions will will go out to the public. There will still be a ton of public episodes, not to worry.In this teaser, I chat with TD riders from the day before and the morning of the start. They share their goals and aspirations, their fears and excitement about tackling the route and pushing themselves. Having been a podcaster for over 5 years, I have spent thousands of hours on administration, conversation, recording, editing, website dev, writing, graphics - the list goes on. There's also the expense of maintaining a website, cloud storage, recording equipment, internet access, gas for the van. This isn't to illicit feelings of sympathy, it's about the realities of operating a Canadian Small Business.A passion project to be sure, but also a part time job that, thanks to supporters, allows me to maintain an existence in a world of job loss, housing shortages and rising gas, food, and utility prices.1 coffee a month. A pint, perhaps? Maybe lunch? If you find value in what I do and want to chip in, I'd be grateful. For those who have continued to support me over the years - I can't say thank you enough.In a sea of podcasts hosted by movie stars, it's a grind, but I love what I do at My Back 40 and I want to continue to bring more valuable and inspirational content. This might include travelling to destinations to meet with a special guest, if the resources exist.Thanks for being a part of the My Back 40 community and thanks in advance for your support. We've built something truly special here. I look forward to the next chapter.Keep The Rubber Side Down.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

It has been a while since I put out a solo podcast and what better time than the week leading up to the 2024 Tour Divide. I'm simultaneously feeling excited for all the riders on their way to the start in Banff and at the same time huge FOMO. You folks are embarking on an adventure that is going to change you life.I'll see you in Banff on the 14th!Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkoutVisit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

In this episode of the podcast, I speak with Drew Raney @raneydayss.Drew recently helped put on a bikepacking event in the Los Padres National Forest in California - Tour de Los Padres - which he completed on a singlespeed! Additionally, he raised $1,000 for his elementary school to give away bikes and start a comprehensive "learn to ride" program for ages 4-6 through the All Kids Bikes organization. As the school's PE teacher, he strives to instill a healthy lifestyle in his 500+ students by challenging himself through bikepacking ultra events.We chat about Drew's life as an educator as well as the importance of getting kids on bikes as a vital life skill fostering confidence and self esteem as well as giving them an activity that they can enjoy for a lifetime.I hope you enjoy this conversation. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

In this episode, I am speaking with Bill Donahue about his book Unbound: Unforgettable True Stories from the World of Endurance Sports.Bill Donahue is an independent writer who lives in New Hampshire. He has written for Outside, The New York Times Magazine, Bicycling, and Runner's World.In reporting stories, I've searched for fallen meteorites in the Sahara Desert, snuck into Manuel Noriega's abandoned beach house, and camped out with Army soldiers in the minus 30-degree chill of the Alaskan Arctic. I believe in journalism and in honest, compassionate storytelling. I live in New Hampshire, and I try to get out on my bike or on cross-country skis every afternoon.Bill and I have a chat about his emergence as a journalist as well as his experiences interviewing and learning about endurance athletes and what makes them tick.Check out his website to learn more about how you can pre-order Unbound.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

In this episode, I'm speaking with Jeff Woodgate, Instructor, guide and owner of Alberta 66 Mountain Biking and a key player in the Grow Kananaskis movement.They're on a mission to protect over 900 hectares of pristine wilderness in West Bragg Creek and Moose Mountain from logging. Yep, that's the equivalent of 833 soccer fields! Can you imagine? These trails are planned to be logged removing the majority of the remaining older growth forest and will have an irreversible effect on the experience of outdoor recreation in the area. The economic impact of this project will be deep affecting local business that thrive due to this diamond of a mountain biking destination.I wanted to get this podcast out asap as there will be an open house in Cochrane at the Cochrane Ranchehouse from 3pm - 8pm.It would mean the world to them if you could sign the petition today.Email all the stake holders now!Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

In this episode, I connect with Mike Dion, Director of Ride the Divide (2010), the movie we all know and love and, for many of us, was the catalyst for us to tackle bikepacking races and eventually, the Tour Divide itself.We chat about the films old and new. Mike discusses his process as a creator and the meaning he found creating the film and attempting the route himself.Enjoy...Oh, and for more info check out the website.https://www.ridethedividereturns.com/Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

In this episode of the podcast I connect with Nathan Siemens of the Lost Elephant Ultra Race (drink). We chat about the race itself and the logistics of organizing bikepacking race such as these. We chat about how women are dominating these events as well as other topics.Nathan drove up to Invermere from Cranbrook BC so that we could chat in person. It's rare that I get the chance to sit across the table from a guest, which made this conversation really special.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

I have been wanting to talk to Dean Anderson for some time now. Finally, we were able to connect and we had a great conversation.I have admired Dean's Ultra Endurance efforts for many years. From completing the Triple Crown of bike packing in the US on his single-speed bike to Everesting projects, Dean is always getting after it In this episode he shares how he balances his life with his endurance efforts. We discuss the importance of his faith, tips and tricks to mentally prepare for a successful endurance endeavor and other topics.I hope you enjoy this one.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

Katrina @nutrition_with_katrina wants to change your relationship with food.Our relationship with food goes beyond mere sustenance; it's intertwined with our emotions, habits, and overall well-being. Taking the time to evaluate and potentially transform this relationship can have profound effects on our health and happiness.In this conversation, Katrina and I discuss how we go about changing this relationship, whether it's through mindful eating practices, addressing emotional triggers, or prioritizing nutritious choices. It's the small things that make the difference. Check out Katrina's free guide below and start your path to healthier happier eating.I hope you enjoy this conversation.https://pages.nutritionwithkatrina.ca/free-guide-1Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

Just a little self promotion for a 24 hour ride I'll be doing next week on the Old Coach Road here in the Columbia Valley to raise awareness and donations for Heads Up Guys, a resource that provides men with information and practical tips to manage and prevent depression.I promote the idea of doing hard things and movement through nature as great ways to support mental health, so why not head out and do laps of a local trail to practice this. Come for a lap or two to share some miles and trials, and maybe join in some trail therapy as I raise awareness of this important issue.What to do? Follow @myback40_podcast, @headsupguys, and @cvgreenways.What to bring? Bring a donation, food, water, tools, and a good sense of humor and adventure. Conditions will be variable, so bring a fat bike with studs.I hope to see you there.

Doug Dunlop @coldbike, renaissance man, is a dad, adventure cyclist, musician, and bike mechanic. He is also a sewist specializing in pogies for flat and drop bar bikes and also creates awesome frame bags, one of which packed enormous amounts of gear on my ride down to Mexico on the Divide in 2022. Check out his website to learn more.Doug and I sat down a few weeks ago to record a chat about the SRMR, but we ended up tossing the recording out as it just didn't go the way either of us wanted. I put a lot of time and effort into the podcast. I want the conversations to not only be entertaining for you, but also represent the guest well. I take a lot of responsibility for the way the first chat went, but as you'll hear in this, more recent conversation, Doug was not in the best mindset the first time around.In this episode we chat about the SRMR of course, but we also talk about how the passing of his mom gave him deeper insight into the importance of putting adventure seeking near the top of the priority list. He also shares how he reframed is SRMR experience when things didn't quite go the way he wanted.I hope you enjoy this one.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

Apologies for a somewhat scattered podcast. Spinning off a voice intro, I chat about a 24 hour ride I'm planning for February, thanking folks for a great 2023 and share some lessons I learned in 2023 as a result of trying to manifest the future that I want.KTRSD in 2024.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

Hello My Back 40 Community and Happy New Year!2024; You know they say time flies and what I am finding is that the older I get, the faster it flies. That being said, make sure you tell the people in your life that you love them because in a snap, it could all be gone.I was struggling to come up with something to put out there sooner, but every time I sat at the mic it just seemed so forced, so without further delay, I bring you Ep 153.My friend Julia Halwa and I sit down to chat about bikes and bikepack racing, her internship with Garmin, and disordered eating. Julia shares her struggles with this issue that arose from her competing as a body sculptor a few years ago. She also shares some of the tools she used to help her get past it. I hope you enjoy this conversation.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

Apologies for taking so long to get this one out to you!It's been around around 4 years since Mike and I first chatted on the Bikepack Canada Podcast and here we are again, connecting to talk about the Japanese Odyssey.It's always good to connect with Mike who has been fabricating Bikepacking bags for several years now. We chat about the challenges of the 2700km bikepacking route across Japan, a punchy race with 50,000m of ascent and a 12 day cutoff where you can pick your own route, somewhat akin to randonneuring. We also talk about creativity and meaning he gets from seeing the gear he makes out in the world. Mike is a great conversationalist and I hope you enjoy this podcast.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

In this episode, I shoot the shit with Julian Vicente from Shaka Packs.American born but now living in Canada, this entrepreneur identified a niche in the bikepacking industry. Determined to fill the gap, he took it upon himself to learn to sewing. Now, he crafts stunning custom framebags and accessories to help you cram stuff on to your bike with style.Julian's stoke for his craft shines through in every piece he creates. Explore his complete collection of quality goods at shakapacks.ca!Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

Riding the SIlk Road Mountain Race is hard enough, but to choose to do it on a cargo bike would make most of us run the other way. For someone like Allan, who lives life behind bars, this was a challenge that was right up his alley.Allan is the founder of Gay's Okay Cycling. Gay's Okay is a small cycling apparel brand with a big, positive, empowering message: that our cycling community welcomes those of all sexual and gender identities, that we are here to change bad attitudes and celebrate our diversity from the grassroots up, while supporting organisations and events that work hard for equal rights and against discrimination.In this episode we chat about the Silk Road and the challenges he faced tacking the route on a bike that was more suited to the streets, but we also touch on trying to bring more diversity to cycling. I appreciated Allan's candor in this discussion and it was a blast to chat with himI hope you enjoy this chat and apologies for this podcast taking so long to come out. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

This is just a short podcast to talk about some things that have recently been on my mind. As well, we hear from my buddy Allen Green about the Danger Bird Bikepacking ride happening in New Mexico.To support my audiobook project, please visit my Patreon Page and sign up at the $10/mo level to get access. It's a wonderful project but a shit ton of work! Thanks in advance for your support.Keep the Rubber Side Down.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

LP Landry @lplandry_overcomecafe is a Psychotherapist and Leadership Coach at Overcome Café, where he helps leaders and cyclists better balance life and work. I saw he had posted about life balance on LinkedIn, so I invited him to chat about it. I think many of us can use sport as a way to escape. Finding the balance between all aspects of our lives is vital, and it's when that imbalance occurs that something suffers. I really enjoyed this conversation. LP is a warm and caring guy, and I appreciated how we connected on many levels. I also think this is an important conversation, so I decided to make this one publically available.Thanks for listening and for your support.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

I have something a little different for you this week. A friend connected me with Anne-Marie and Abby Berger who needed a place to reset and do some laundry. Both of these women have spent the last couple of years on the road exploring in their vans and working remotely. I figured it was going to be a great opportunity to do a podcast to talk about the meaning people get from this lifestyle. I talk about community a lot on the podcast and It goes without saying that community extends into all of our lives whether it's bikepacking, van life, martial arts - the list goes on. I may not be able to live the van life at this time in my life, but connecting with and helping Anne-Marie and Abby out connects me to their community. It feels good to help.It is said that the epidemic of isolation has become one of the primary causes of poor mental health in our society. Being alone is one thing, but feeling lonely and isolated erodes our souls. Human beings are wired for connection so when this aspect of our lives is missing, we can feel out of balance. Reach out to a friend today and feel connected again.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

Jenifer reached out to me a couple of weeks ago wanting to have a chat. Here's what she wrote in her message to me."My name is Jennifer, I am the owner of Ignite Health Coaching and Wellness based in Canmore. I help endurance athletes to support their mental health beyond exercise. Mental health issues like depression and anxiety are all too common in endurance athletes, but it's often not talked about as it's expected that regular exercise should be enough. It's my goal to open these conversations so that endurance athletes recognize that they're not alone and to give them strategies and tools to support their mental health so they can stop hiding behind their sport and start feeling like themselves again."This resonated with me as I feel as though many of us head out on these adventure because we're running from something. Not always the case of course. We talk about various tools that can be sued to tackle anxiety on our day to day lives. We also get into forming healthy habits in order to cultivate a peaceful environment.I really enjoyed this conversating and I hope you do too!Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

The last time Trish was on the podcast we had a fantastic conversation and this time around did not disappoint.I was out on a ride and I sent her a voice message asking if she'd be okay if we dove deep on a couple of topics. This made for a really fun and flowing chat. We talk about her finishing the The Big Sky Spectaculaire, a 1500km route with 12,555m of gain. She finished in 7 days. 12 people signed up, 6 people started and 3 people finished. She shares a few stories about her adventure, trail magic and people. Trish is a great story teller.Later in the podcast, I make a pretty hard pivot to talk about her sobriety. She shares the why behind it and we discuss how substance use can be a slippery slope that can easily turn into a coping mechanism.In this podcast I mention a couple of books and podcasts that I have indulged in lately. They are:Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence The Alter Ego Effect The Lex Friedman Podcast with Joscha BachSave 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to @pinkweaselcoffeeco for the caffeination.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

I love podcasting because it gives a platform where the listener feels like a fly on the wall, listening to two people getting to know one another. Fred Chagnon contacted me a few weeks ago to highlight the lack of chat about Randonneuring on the Podcast. Well then, we should talk about it.Fred was a fantastic guest and shared a lot about his work, personal life, and the meaning he gets from the sport of Randonneuring. He explains the differences as well as the similarities between Rando and Bikepacking. We geek out about guitar and drums and discuss the Information Technology industry. It was an awesome chat, and I hope you enjoy getting to know Fred Chagnon as much as I did.Fred also has a blog. https://randorambles.blogspot.com/ so please check that out and make sure you subscribe.You know that I ask for voice intros all the time. I'd love to hear from you, so don't be shy. Whip out your device, record me something, and send it to myback40podcast@gmail.com.Find value in the podcast? Please join my Patreon to get early access to the podcast and some extra tidbits from time to time. Thanks in advance for your support.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!Keep the Rubber Side Down.

In this episode I speak with Jocelyn De La Rosa about his 2023 Lost Elephant experience.Jocelyn was riding head to head with winner, Meaghan Hackinen when suddenly his dot stopped moving. It then starting moving west and off route. I wanted to get the story and it's a good one indeed! I have crossed paths with Jocelyn a number of times in the last few years, but we never had the opportunity to shoot the shit. Bikepacker, randonneur, coder and all around good guy - It was great to get to know him and I hope you get to know him better in this conversation.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

This week I have a conversation with Jay Petervary about his new project, Great Divide Ride Unearthed. Jay is planning an ITT of the American Cycling Association's official GD route which starts in Jasper Alberta. The mission:"To inspire others to use the bicycle to benefit their physical and mental health; to pursue their dreams; to do challenging things; to think outside the box and follow a passion.I am also riding on behalf of the Be Good Foundation. All donations will be dispersed through the Be Good Foundation to bikepack scholarships and other affiliated bike non-profits."We chat about gear, the meaning Jay gets from pushing his limits, and what the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route means to him as well as other topics.I had some hardware issues during this episode but got them ironed out during the chat. Audio quality has always been super important to me, but as Jay put it, "It's raw."To support the podcast, please join my Patreon or visit my sponsors.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

July 22, 2023, I headed out to Fairmont BC to meet up with folks racing the Lost Elephant Bikepacking Race here in the East Kootenays.Similar to the 2023 Divide, I brought the recorder with me to meet and chat with riders as they rolled into the only resupply they would see for the next 390km. This is a format that I enjoy and I hope you do too. My goal for the podcast has always been to make you feel like a fly on the wall listening to a long format conversation. Head out for a long one and pop the buds in.This was a challenging podcast to mix as there was a lot of audio to go through and stitch together. I hope it flows nicely for you and of course I hope you enjoy it.To support my work and get early access to episodes, please consider subscribing over on Patreon.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

In this episode of the podcast, I'm speaking with John Ogrodniczuk Professor of Psychiatry and Director of the University of British Columbia Psychotherapy Program, one of North America's largest medically based psychotherapy training programs. John also heads up the Men's Mental Health Organization HeadsUpGuys. Launched in 2015, their team of clinicians, researchers, and mental health advocates bring together their expertise and personal experiences to provide men with this unique resource. John's research focuses on a variety of psychotherapies and patient populations, with a particular focus on personality disorders and men's mental health. Dr. Ogrodniczuk has held several grants to support his research, which has led to over 300 scientific publications.The catalyst of this conversation was a paper that John and his colleagues published titled “Silence and its Manifestations in Men's mental illness.” You'll often hear me preach the importance of reaching out for help when in need and this conversation explores why many men suffer in silence.Topics include. Masculine norms, the overcompensation of norms leading to maladaptive masculinity, society's expectations of men, the underrepresentation of men in mental health studies, the importance of recognizing the signs of men who are struggling and how vital it is to connect with these men, substance abuse, how the lack of support for men's mental health has an adverse effect on society and other topics.We cover a lot in this podcast, and I truly hope you find value in this important topic. I'm going to ask this again - No matter who are, if there's a man in your life who is struggling, reach out to him. With a simple text, phone call, or conversation, you could be saving a life.Please visit HeadsUpGuys.org to learn more about the program and do donate.

In this podcast episode, I explore a couple of voice intros and delve into some thoughts that have occupied my mind recently.I am aware that it's been a while, and I want to express my gratitude for your patience. I tend to place a great deal of pressure on myself to release episodes as regularly as possible. I hope my absence didn't cause any concern. The podcast holds immense significance to me, just like each and every one of you.Incorporating voice intros into my podcasting has been a tradition since my Bikepack Canada days. It adds a sense of interaction and an extra layer to the podcast that I genuinely cherish. It allows listeners to greet and provides me with an opportunity to connect with the community. If you'd like to contribute, simply grab your device, record a message, and email it to me.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

Something a little different this week. Last week I hung out at the 2023 Tour Divide Grand Depart to take in the energy, and to wander around with my recorder to talk to people from around the globe as they get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.It was such an exciting time for everyone. I also had the chance to meet previous MB40 guests in real life. Folks like Chris Wheeler, John and Mira as well as Steve Halligan. I met Steve in Canmore and we rode together to the start, which was a massive highlight for me.I am pretty picking about audio quality and this one needed a lot of work but I think I got it to a good place. Enjoy this sneak peak into the 2023 Tour Divide Grand Depart.Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

Just a short one for you this week. I was inspired by a voice intro from Steve in Manitoba to record some ramblings.Life has been pretty hectic lately, so it's been hard to find time to record so I thought I would just get a track down to connect with you. The one thing I truly love about the podcast is the engagement I get from you, the listener. To know that I'm reaching you and, in a small way, helping some of you through hard times is gratifying. My patrons will get early access to this episode. I love this podcast and love connecting with you. If you find value in the content, please considering signing up to be a patron. For $5 per month, the price of a coffee, you'll get early access to episodes and help me grow the podcast. I hope you enjoy this shorty. Love ya!Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout.Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout.Visit Rollingdale CycleThanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support.Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support.Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!