Peace Love Moto - The Podcast

In this episode of Peace Love Moto, I share one of the most powerful moments I've experienced as a tour guide in Rocky Mountain National Park—when a guest from Chicago stood beside me and said, “Ron, I feel the presence of God here.”That moment reminded me why I ride and why I guide—to help others connect with something greater. I will share about the deep contrast between my corporate day job and the stillness I find on a motorcycle in the wilderness.Adventure riding isn't just about dirt roads and distant views—it's about mindfulness, healing, and peace.  We reflect on how the open road helps peel back the layers of everyday stress and reveals something deeper.Whether it's a Jeep Tour in Rocky Mountain National Park or a solo ride into the mountains, I believe these experiences change us.  Riding is therapy. It's spiritual. It's real.  In this episode, I invite you to ride with me—not just through the mountains of Colorado, but into a deeper part of yourself.Let's talk about resilience, reflection, and rediscovering purpose on two wheels.  Join me as we chase peace, love, and that presence we can feel—but not always explain.Support the show

The moment you restore an old motorcycle, you're not just fixing a machine—you're preserving history, creating art, and joining a global community of kindred spirits. This truth resonates powerfully throughout my conversation with Chris Tope, the visionary builder behind Utopeia Moto Company.  That's right, uTOPEia.  Get it???  Chris's journey from Richardson, Texas to the mountains of West Virginia reveals how motorcycles can become the thread connecting seemingly disparate lives. His passion began at 14 with a neglected Yamaha moped from an abandoned storage unit, which he lovingly restored while dreaming of impressing girls (despite it being a single-seater). This early mechanical education blossomed into a lifelong dedication to rescuing forgotten motorcycles—particularly two-strokes like Hodakas, Pentons, and other brands that have largely vanished from America's roads and trails.What makes Chris's work truly exceptional is his integration of natural elements reflecting his background as a biologist. Each build features thoughtful details like epoxy resin grips, gemstone accents, paint schemes inspired by butterfly wings, and his signature "hobo coin" tribute. "I try to make the coolest two-strokes in the industry," he explains, focusing on models overlooked by mainstream builders. This approach has earned him invitations to prestigious shows from Portland to Austin, allowing him to connect with luminaries including DGR founder Mark Hawwa and musician/motorcycle enthusiast Lyle Lovett.Perhaps most inspiring is how Chris transformed his passion into community service. Discovering West Virginia lacked a Distinguished Gentleman's Ride, he founded one in his small town of Fayetteville (population 3,000), growing from 25 riders to 46 and raising $25,000 for men's health causes. He also established the annual "Utopeia Give Back Giveaway," distributing $10,000 in donated motorcycle gear to community members during the winter months when riding spirits often need lifting. Connect with Chris on Instagram at Utopeia Moto Company to see his remarkable creations and perhaps commission your own piece of motorcycle artistry—though with twin nine-month-old boys at home and a biology career, he limits himself to about one custom build annually.https://www.instagram.com/utopeia_moto_company/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063995115243Support the show

Some announcements carry more weight than others, and this one comes straight from the heart. Peace Love Moto is now officially sponsoring two remarkable Northern Colorado nonprofits that embody the spirit of joy, healing, and community connection.The Carousel of Happiness in Nederland stands as a testament to resilience and wonder. My friend Scott Harrison, a Vietnam veteran who found solace in a tiny music box during combat, dedicated 26 years to hand-carving 56 magnificent animals. These creatures now bring joy to visitors from around the world as they ride the restored 1910 carousel to the melodies of a century-old Wurlitzer band organ. It's a place where joy isn't just an emotion – it's a tangible presence, carefully crafted and freely shared.Just minutes from my home, Hearts and Horses offers another kind of healing magic. This therapeutic riding center serves children with disabilities, veterans battling PTSD, and individuals with dementia through equine-assisted therapy. With approximately 30 horses and a dedicated team of professionals and volunteers, they create safe spaces where physical and emotional healing blossoms through the unique bond between humans and horses.These initiatives have awakened something profound in me – a calling to create more meaningful connections with you, my listeners. While I may record this podcast from my son's former bedroom in Loveland, the feedback I receive suggests many of you crave authentic experiences: riding Colorado's back roads, witnessing nature's magnificence, and meeting extraordinary people making a difference in our world. I'm actively exploring ways we might connect beyond these audio episodes – perhaps through shared motorcycle journeys where together we can seek that elusive peace of mind we all desire. The path forward isn't entirely clear yet, but the destination feels right – finding joy, purpose, and connection in an increasingly disconnected world. Stay tuned as this vision takes shape.Support the show

Discover the surprising power of slowing down in a world obsessed with speed. While anyone can twist a throttle and go fast, the true art of motorcycling—and living—reveals itself when we master the delicate balance of going slow.Riding at a crawl demands exceptional skill and mindful awareness. That perfect balance point where you can come to a complete stop at a stop sign, then moving forward again, all without putting your foot down? It requires practice, patience, and presence. This mastery on two wheels mirrors the challenge we face in our daily lives: not just slowing down from frantic to a bit slower, but achieving genuine presence and intentional movement.Next time you're riding, find a quiet stretch of road and practice the art of going slow. Feel your breathing align with your movement. Notice how your awareness sharpens when you're not rushing. Experience what it means to ride like you're "meditating on two wheels." This mindful approach to motorcycling doesn't just make you a better rider—it connects you to that peaceful, easy feeling we're all seeking on the road and in life. After all, true mastery isn't found in how fast you can go, but in how present you can be at any speed.Support the show

Remember Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli? That leather-jacketed, motorcycle-riding tough guy from Happy Days who could start a jukebox with a tap of his elbow and had girls flocking to him with a snap of his fingers? Beyond the coolness factor, Fonzie represents something profound for motorcycle riders.The beauty of Fonzie's character lies in what's underneath.  On the surface, he was the classic biker stereotype—independent, slightly dangerous, utterly self-assured on his Triumph. Yet beneath that tough exterior beat a heart of pure gold. He was fiercely loyal to the Cunningham family, offered surprisingly profound advice to Richie and friends, and consistently used his influence to protect rather than intimidate. Fonzie showed us that true strength isn't about dominating others but lifting them up.As motorcyclists, we can learn valuable lessons from this cultural icon. Fonzie taught us that appearances can be deceiving, that you can be strong while still showing vulnerability, and that authentic kindness never diminishes your cool factor. His character reminds us that when we're out on the open road, we carry more than just our bikes—we carry the opportunity to break stereotypes and demonstrate that riders can embody both toughness and tenderness. In a world that often judges books by their covers, Fonzie showed that the most rebellious thing might just be having the courage to be kind. So the next time you're suited up for a ride, remember the Fonz—and consider how you might bring a little more peace and love to the roads you travel.Support the show

Mark Hawwa's compassionate vision became the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride, a global motorcycle event that raises awareness and vital funds for men's health, focusing on suicide prevention and prostate cancer research.  Growing up with immigrant parents who instilled values of service and compassion, Mark explains how these principles became the foundation for the DGR. What began as a way to challenge negative stereotypes about motorcyclists has evolved into something far more profound – a safe space where men can openly discuss health challenges that were once considered taboo. As Mark poignantly shares, "We're making it easier for guys to be comfortable in their own skin, more comfortable to talk about mental health, and more comfortable to reach out for support."The conversation takes us through the evolution of the movement, including the launch of the Distinguished Gentleman's Drive for classic car enthusiasts and the logistical challenges of coordinating events across diverse international jurisdictions. Mark's initial concerns about sustainability have proven unfounded as participation continues to grow stronger each year, demonstrating the power of bringing people together around shared passions while serving a greater good. His candid reflections reveal both the tremendous work behind the scenes and the unexpected ways the movement has touched lives worldwide. Whether you're a longtime participant or new to the DGR community, this episode provides profound insights into how motorcycles, style, and compassion are creating lasting change in men's health awareness globally.

For years, I'd listened to my parents—now in their 90s—share stories about their brief time in California during the 1950s when my father was drafted for basic training. As a young Texas couple who had barely left their small hometown, their journey to the Pacific coast represented both a frightening challenge and an incredible adventure. Though I could have flown and reached my destination in hours, I knew that experiencing this meaningful place required the unfiltered perspective that only motorcycle travel provides.If you're fortunate enough to own a motorcycle, you possess not just a vehicle but a gateway to experiences that can't be replicated any other way. The open road awaits with both its challenges and rewards. When you return, you'll carry not just memories of places visited, but of conversations had, kindnesses exchanged, and a deeper understanding of both the world around you and your place within it. What journey are you putting off that might change how you see everything?Keywords:  Motorcycle travel, Fort Ord, solo road trip, family history, California coast, veteran stories, American West, motorcycle adventure, spiritual journey, podcast storytelling

There's something very special about that quiet time before the ride—when the map's still folded, the bike's waiting, and your heart's just starting to lean toward whatever you may find down the road. That's when the journey really begins.In this episode, we get into the soul of trip planning—not just the “where,” but the deeper “why.” Are you riding to shake loose the dust of everyday life? To chase a dream route that's lived in your head for years? Or maybe to feel that kind of freedom you only get when it's just you, the bike, and the open road. Whatever it is, let that purpose guide your plans. It'll shape your ride in ways a GPS never could.We'll also talk practical prep—because a well-loved motorcycle deserves some love before the adventure. Do your maintenance early. Take her out for a shakedown ride. Pack with purpose: layers, tools, tape, and those little things that become lifesavers when you're miles from the nearest town. Think of your route like jazz—lay down the structure, but leave space for improvisation. Rest days matter. Getting lost can be beautiful. And yes, stop for that homemade pie.Whether you're riding solo or with your crew, planning isn't about controlling the ride—it's about creating space to be present. To wave at a kid in the back seat. To pull over for a view that stops your breath. To feel the road not just under your tires, but in your soul.I'd love to hear what you're planning and why you ride. Drop me a line at ron@peacelovemoto.com

In this episode of Peace Love Moto, we dive deep into the eternal tension between the joy of motorcycling and the risks that come with it. Ron shares real-life stories, hard-earned wisdom, and heartfelt reflections on what it means to ride with mindfulness, purpose, and protection. From dealing with concerned friends and family to navigating the unpredictable nature of the open road, this episode explores how riders can embrace safety without sacrificing the soul of the ride. We cover everything from proper gear, road awareness, animal hazards in the Rockies, to the mental discipline it takes to ride smart. If you love motorcycling and want to keep riding for years to come, this is your reminder to ride with gratitude—and gear up with intention.Keywords: motorcycle safety tips, mindful motorcycling, riding gear, motorcycle risk vs reward, safe riding mindset, motorcycling in Colorado, why wear a helmet, Rocky Mountain rides, motorcycle road hazards, Peace Love Moto podcast

Have you ever noticed how anxiety seems to disappear the moment you throw your leg over your motorcycle? There's something almost magical about the way riding cuts through mental noise, bringing us back to a state of presence that's increasingly rare in our notification-saturated world.This episode explores the profound connection between motorcycle riding and mental wellness, inspired by the timeless wisdom in Bob Marley's "Three Little Birds." We dive into why riding works as natural anxiety therapy—how the full-body engagement, sensory experience, and mandatory presence required to ride safely creates a unique form of mindfulness unlike anything else. When you're scanning the road, feeling the lean of your bike, and moving with the rhythm of the pavement, anxiety has no choice but to take a back seat.The motorcycle community offers another dimension of healing. Riders share their stories of finding connection and acceptance when social anxiety would otherwise keep them isolated. There's something about meeting fellow motorcyclists that strips away pretense, allowing for authentic connections based on shared experiences rather than social performance. As one rider put it, "When I'm riding with others, I'm in my own space together with them"—a beautiful paradox that creates safety for even the most socially anxious among us.Perhaps most importantly, motorcycling teaches us the art of letting go. On the road, we quickly learn that control is an illusion—weather changes, road conditions surprise us, and all we can truly manage is our response. This practical experience of handling uncertainty while maintaining composure builds resilience that extends far beyond our time in the saddle. Just as Bob Marley reminds us, "Don't worry about a thing, 'cause every little thing's gonna be alright," riding helps us embody this truth in a visceral way. If you're struggling with anxiety, maybe the answer isn't more worry—maybe it's more riding. Take a deep breath, hit the road, and discover the peace that awaits when you trade anxiety for adventure.The video:  https://youtu.be/BXlzxDl32ic?si=1a-b_sDnsZjyfpHd

That deep connection between rider and machine isn't just sentimentality—it's at the heart of Robert Persig's philosophical masterpiece, "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance."Today we're winding through the philosophical landscapes of Persig's influential work, exploring what it means to truly engage with our motorcycles and, by extension, with life itself. When we're cruising at 70mph and it suddenly feels like we're perfectly still while the world moves around us—that's Peace. That's presence. That moment when time disappears as you work on your bike late into the night, completely absorbed in the task—that's mindfulness.Persig suggests we can look at motorcycles (and life) in two ways: as fragmented collections of parts or as unified living systems. This perspective shapes everything—how we maintain our bikes, how we approach problems, and how we find harmony in a world that feels increasingly disconnected. We explore "gumption traps"—those frustrations like stripped screws or self-doubt that drain our enthusiasm—and the practices that restore our energy and focus. At its core, motorcycling offers us a path to that elusive peace of mind we're all searching for, if we approach the journey with awareness and care.Ready to find your Zen on two wheels? 

In this soul-searching episode of Peace Love Moto, we will explore the powerful connection between Bob Seger's 1982 anthem Roll Me Away and the spirit of motorcycling. More than just a classic 1980's rock ballad, this song has become a guiding light for some riders—and anyone at a crossroads—searching for meaning, direction, and freedom.Whether you're facing uncertainty in life, standing at a metaphorical fork in the road, or just longing to ride toward something more, listen as we break down the emotional depth of Seger's lyrics and how they mirror the transformative journey of motorcycle riders just like you and me.Motorcycles serve as more than machines—they become moving sanctuaries for clarity, healing, and growth. Discover why “rolling away” isn't about running from life but about embracing the unknown to rediscover yourself.

Remember when you first started your motorcycle and felt that sense of freedom wash over you? It's a feeling that connects surprisingly well with the wisdom coming from America's heartland. This episode explores the unexpected parallels between the farmer's way of life and the motorcyclist's journey, revealing how both share a profound relationship with machinery, nature, and community.Growing up visiting my grandparents' farm gave me perspective that shapes my riding today. At just 10 years old, my grandfather taught me to drive a 1966 Chevrolet C10 pickup with simple instructions: "don't run over anything." That early lesson in machinery and responsibility mirrors what we experience as riders - respecting our motorcycles, maintaining them properly, and understanding their importance to our freedom.Farmers face the unpredictability of Mother Nature every day, with their livelihoods dependent on weather patterns beyond their control. Similarly, as motorcyclists, we confront changing road conditions, unexpected storms, and mechanical challenges that require adaptability and composure. Both farmers and riders develop a special relationship with the outdoors - experiencing the world through all senses rather than through screens.The wisdom from the fields applies perfectly to the open road: respect your machine, embrace the journey, adapt when necessary, and value the community around you. While most of us aren't rising at dawn to milk cows or harvest crops, we can learn from the farmer's steady resilience and passion. When was the last time you appreciated your motorcycle as not just transportation but as a dream fulfilled - your own personal connection to freedom and the natural world?Listen now and discover how embracing the farmer's mindset might just transform your next ride. Share your thoughts about how these two worlds connect in your own experience. How has your motorcycle become more than just a machine to you?

Motorcycling offers more than escape—it provides a path to mindfulness and purpose through our interactions with others on the road. George Bernard Shaw's century-old wisdom about living for something greater than ourselves perfectly captures the spirit of what it means to ride with intention and community consciousness.A simple wave or nod to a driver who makes a mistake can transform how all motorcyclists are perceived.  Kind interactions with drivers may make them more likely to watch for and respect motorcyclists in the future.  The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride exemplifies how our passion for motorcycling can support important causes.  Shaw's quote reminds us not to be "a feverish, selfish little clod of ailments and grievances" but to live with purpose.  Motorcycling forces us to be present, letting everyday grievances fade away.  The community of motorcycling creates a brotherhood/sisterhood united by our love of riding.  Like the song "This Little Light of Mine," we're called to shine brightly and make a difference through our riding

Riding with a Local is just better.  Until we can ride together, I will share with you pro-tips for escaping the tourist crowds, finding traffic-free roads for the most spectacular experience riding the Colorado Rocky Mountains and where to find the best coffeeshops, burgers, and cherry pies!

The powerful connection motorcyclists share with Mother Nature defines our riding experience in profound ways most travelers never understand. When we throw a leg over our bikes, we enter into a relationship with forces larger than ourselves—sometimes gentle, sometimes fierce, but always present.

Learning to ride a motorcycle, especially as an adult, is a very bold move.  Some of us learned to ride small motorcycles as kids.  Slow bikes as low to the ground and underpowered as we were.  But learning to ride as an adult, well, that's a whole different motivation.  It begs the question, why are they choosing to learn to ride? 

What happens when the icy roads of winter threaten the freedom and joy that come with motorcycling? Join me as we explore the impact of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) on motorcycle riders and share solutions for getting through the Wintertime Blues.  Listen also for a heartfelt nod to the wisdom of the Beatles.  

Imagine a world where the sound of a motorcycle engine is a call to mindfulness and connection. That's precisely the journey we embarked on with Ben Rubin, affectionately known as "The Mindful Motorcycle" on Instagram. Ben reveals how a thoughtful gift from his partner led to his passion for motorcycling, transforming it into a path of personal growth and mindful living. The bonds formed within the motorcycle community are anything but ordinary; they're a testament to the unspoken understanding that exists among riders who share the open road.

Comfortable long rides are key to enjoying the journey and finding the ever elusive Peace of Mind we seek. This episode covers how to select the right gear, the importance of hydration, and maintaining a positive mindset while riding.

Sometimes it feels like contrasting realities.  For some, their world view is driven by negative social media, but we can find hope in our positive motorcycling community.  Want to know how?  Just look around.

 Neale Bayly turned his thirst for adventure by motorcycle into a powerful vehicle for spreading peace, love, and compassion across the war-torn Ukraine, Peru, and the World. From the early influences of literature like "Jupiter's Travels" to becoming a voice for global connections, Neale's story is a testament to the transformative power of following your passions.  Check out:  https://wellspring-outreach.org

Have you ever stumbled upon a hidden family treasure? Join us as we hear the heartwarming story of Paul Kraus and his father's 1947 Whizzer motorbike that sparked a restoration journey that revived a priceless piece of history.  As Paul shares his experiences with the Colorado Vintage Motorcycle Group, you'll hear about the vibrant camaraderie and passion that these classic machines inspire.

Today we're diving deep into the heart of why we ride – finding that elusive "ride happy" feeling, which if we're lucky, takes us to a whole other level of happiness.  The all elusive Peace of Mind.  

While we frequently discuss the Peace of Mind many of us find from the seat of a motorcycle, what if that's no longer an option?  After a devastating accident, Hunter Matthews could have given up, but he hasn't.  Instead, he encourages us to explore alternative paths to inner peace and fulfillment while he maintains found memories of his riding days.  It's a power reminder about gratitude and seizing life's opportunities.  Prepare to be inspired.

Now for the conclusion of my two part conversation with Kiki Azim and Kirsten Midura.  In our previous episode #80, you could hear it in their voices.  A passion for empowering our motorcycling community to find peace of mind by demonstrating a love for others.  The poor, the innocent, those who believe that no one cares for them.  So how do you demonstrate a love for others?  Volunteer, donate or both!  You're blessed with the opportunity to find joy riding your motorcycle. Now you can bring that joy to others who really need it.  Click the links in the show notes for details or feel free to email me at ron@peacelovemoto.com for specific information.You can help!  Make your tax-deductible donation TODAY!Engines for Change:  https://www.enginesforchange.org/Rebels with a Cause:  https://www.rebelstour.com/Rebels donations:  https://givebutter.com/E4C-Rebels-With-A-Cause

Today, we hear part 1 of my fascinating conversation with Kiki Azim and Kirsten Midura.  Two friends with a common heart.  A common love for motorcycling and a shared passion for healing a hurting world.  People like them have changed the world!  You can too! You can help!  Make your tax-deductible donation TODAY!Engines for Change:  https://www.enginesforchange.org/Rebels with a Cause:  https://www.rebelstour.com/Rebels donations:  https://givebutter.com/E4C-Rebels-With-A-Cause

I just said "hello".  He followed me on his new motorcycle into the mountains then down into the valley to my favorite coffee shop.  What he told me there left me speechless.

Have you ever felt the  need to just turn off the world for a while, get out of the house, get out on your motorcycle, to find yourself out on a lonely road and just ride?   I believe that sometimes a ride like that can transform itself into a chance encounter.  Like the stars were aligned for something special, something meaningful to happen.  It happened to me.  I'd like to tell you about it. Send me a message!

Have you ever found yourself in a Flow State?   Ah… nice.  It's good to find yourself riding in the Zone.  Maybe that's a glimpse of Heaven.  So how do we find it on our next ride?Send me a message!

I can't always find the words to express how meaningful riding is to me and for so many of us around the world.  But others have very effectively found those words.  One such person is Melissa Holbrook Pierson from her 1997 book, The Perfect Vehicle.  So today, we will hear from the most eloquent Forward that I've ever heard.  I'll have a link in the show notes for how you can get your own copy of this book.  So for now, I ask you to relax, pour yourself a favorite coffee or tea, take a couple of deep slow breaths, and listen to these poetic words that describe our beautiful world of motorcycling.https://www.melissaholbrookpierson.com/the-perfect-vehicleSend me a message!

Sometimes our motorcycle rides are fast paced. Yes, that's fun, but a fast paced life?  That's not so fun.  It can be high-risk and destructive.  There are ways of building some cushion of safety, both in motorcycling and in life. Creating some “ Margin" as they call it.  We need to know when to adjust the load, when to slow down, when to make a change, when to rest, before something happens that could impact our ability to ride.  This is important stuff. Send me a message!

My hope for you and for myself is that we will be just like George Bailey at the end of the movie “It's a Wonderful Life”. By having a motorcycle. the ability to ride to ride it and the many friends and family who love us, we will recognize how very blessed you are right now.  We'll be reminded that yeah, we are having a Wonderful Life.Send me a message!

Brady McLean, the founder of Go Fast Don't Die, has a story to share.  Yeah, that's a cool slogan and he loves motorcycling, but you'll learn that there's much more to Brady than business and bikes.  He knows a lot about living a full life.  Honestly, I just felt lucky to be in a conversation with a guy like him.  Get ready for a transformative conversation.Send me a message!

Kim Casares is an amazing motorcycle rider who pushed the limits of courage and strength to reach her goal of riding a motorcycle to the Base Camp of Mount Everest.  Here is my interview with my new friend, a true Motorcycle Adventurer.Send me a message!

Go out there, ride, gain strength, be happy, and share that strength and your inner joy with someone else.  Be a Hero.  You ask "What are you talking about, Ron"???   Oh, have I got a story for you!

Motorcycling.  It's transportation and a cool means for travel, but if you're like me, it's the same play that I experienced in my childhood.  When we go out for a ride, we go out to play, sometimes alone and sometimes with our friends, and that's a beautiful thing.  What a gift to be able to do that!

Today, we take a few minutes just to relax and we do that by reading passages from a little book that not only takes us on our motorcycles down the road, but it also reminds us why we have such a desire to be on the road in the first place.  Published in 2013 and edited by Malcolm Nelson and Kristen Lassen, it's called The Little Black Book of Motorcycle Wisdom.The Little Black Book of Motorcycle Wisdom

I hear it often, even from motorcycle riders traveling on vacation.   I often hear it as I meet vacationers in the National Park.  If people tell me that they are leaving for home the next day, they often say “We have to go back to reality”.   Maybe, they've got it all wrong.  Maybe they have it backwards.  Perhaps they have been in reality all along.Support the show

There is value in understanding that we don't have to be perfect.  With each new ride, we have the opportunity to get become a better rider and during that process, let's just be satisfied with the fact that we've found something that we love.  Support the show

My brother-in-law and I got high together.  No, not a chemical high through whatever means, but he on his Triumph and me on my BMW, no hallucinations going on here at all.  This is real.  Climbing so high on mountain roads, temperatures dropping over by 30 degrees.  Seeing for miles and miles in every direction, it gives you a new perspective.  Maybe a new perspective on life.  The world… is beautiful and there are lots and lots of amazing open space everywhere, especially here in the western United States.  We just have to see it to believe it.Support the show

I'll never forget our group ride here in Colorado and the smile on my friend's face.  He rented his dream motorcycle from EagleRider, a business that is led by a motorcycle rider who also cares about people.  My friend's smile means mission accomplished.I'm excited to visit today with the CEO of EagleRider, Sebastian Schoepe!Learn more about EagleRider at:  EagleRider.com

Many of our motorcycle rides are just circles.  Some 5 mile loops others 500 miles, but usually we start from home and return home.  Why do we do the same thing over and over again?  Well, we riders know why.  Yes, crazy can be fun!

I'm excited to share with you an unedited conversation with my friend Andreas Metzger.  Andreas and his wife Lisa joined me for a long Saturday ride through arguably the most beautiful spaces on Earth here in Northern Colorado and Southern Wyoming.  I gave Andreas no prep time.  I just handed him a clip-on microphone and told him “OK buddy, let's talk”.

Today we replay what I feel is one of the more important episodes thus far.  It's one about forgiveness.  It's about compassion.  It's about showing love for a stranger.  It's about a wrong assumption about a driver who almost killed you.

Are you looking for a community?  A sense of belonging?  Well, you already have your membership card.  It's the motorcycle you ride!  It's the jacket you're wearing.  It's the helmet you carry into the coffee shop.  You're in!  You are a part of a growing community of motorcycling riders.  How great is that?  

I would love to hear from you! Send a message!While preparing every Episode for this podcast, I make an effort to refresh my memory on how I feel when I'm out on my bike.  Since I had determined that I would call this episode, Riding in the Rain, well then, I needed to ride in the rain!  So this afternoon the timing was perfect.  Here in Colorado, most afternoons or evenings, a rainstorm will likely come through.  I saw on the weather radar that 30 miles from my home, there was a storm brewing.  So, for you, for my listening audience, I prepared for my ride, I confirmed that I had all of my rain gear, hopped on my Triumph Bonneville, and rode through the storm.  Such is life.  

I would love to hear from you! Send a message!About 50 miles northwest from my home in Loveland, Colorado are two places where I ride my motorcycle quite often.  Following Highway 287 in vast, wide open spaces, just before the Colorado Wyoming border we arrive in a place called Virginia Dale.  Here are two very different places of worship.  Each with it's own methods for a common goal.  A great place to ride, to stop, to take a seat and to listen.

I would love to hear from you! Send a message!My hope for this short episode is that you can ride your motorcycle to your own place of Serenity, such as Serenity Coffee in Riverside, Wyoming.  To stop, relax, take in the scenery, and know that, at least for that moment, you are the luckiest guy or gal in the world, and all is well with your world. Serenity Coffee, Riverside, WyomingMusic by: Gary Schmidt MusicWilliam_King and Olexy from Pixabay

It was two days after my motorcycle broke down in the Nevada Desert that I made the recording.  It's actually a video where I described how everything was going great, until it wasn't going so great.  Most importantly, I shared my feelings at that moment.  Not a feeling of despair, or disappointment that my motorcycle journey had ended so abruptly.  Instead, it was about feelings of overwhelming gratitude.  Gratitude for a world just full of people who will help a stranger in need.  This time, I was that stranger and I was in need.  In today's episode, I'll share with you the raw, unedited audit that I captured that day back in the Nevada Desert to where my bike broke down.  My hope is that you'll hear it in my voice, the gratitude that I felt toward so many good people, who came to my physical and emotional rescue. 

A trip of a lifetime.  How often have you experienced that?  Today, we travel to New England and visit with Pat, Greg and Scott from Moto-Cyco Touring Adventures.  I so enjoyed talking with these guys about the amazing motorcycle tours that they offer.  Now I have an addition to my personal touring bucket list.  You may too! https://www.moto-cyco.com/ride@moto-cyco.com978.417.9930