The Failed Experiment

Send us a textOriginally from Minnesota, Andrew Bauer is a race mechanic within the world of professional Supercross and motocross racing. Most recently, Andrew spent multiple years as a factory race mechanic at Rockstar/Husqvarna. As a mechanic, Andrew has won multiple X Games gold medals with his riders including Vicki Golden and Colby Raha as well as wrenching for riders such as Alex Martin, Chris Alldredge, and Matt Buyten.In today's episode, we dive into Andrew's story of growing up in Minnesota, the grind to become a race mechanic, the enigma that is Sean Hamblin, why he doesn't like wrenching for Raha while he's doing long distance jumping, separating from Rockstar/Husqvarna, being on stage with Pennywise, and a lot more. This was a great episode with a lot of insights into the sport, the ebbs and flows of being a factory race mechanic, and more. I hope everyone enjoys! Follow Andrew: https://www.instagram.com/bauer651/?hl=enThe Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com https://www.patreon.com/c/TheFailedExperimentFollow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow The Lost Frames on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.lostframes/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Originally from Southern California, filmmaker, Nathan Avila (@studio39filmco on social media) split his time between the Orange County coastline and the desert landscapes of Albuquerque, New Mexico. We dive into his time growing up in two very different landscapes, how he got into video production, dropping out of college, chasing his dreams and moving back to California, the dream dying, and the dream reemerging again.Nathan's story is a great one chasing dreams, giving up on the dreams, and the dreams coming back to find him. For all the young filmmakers out there, this provides great insights into the struggles of chasing a passion and what it takes to see it through. I hope all enjoy!Follow Nathan: https://www.instagram.com/studio39filmco/The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com https://www.patreon.com/c/TheFailedExperimentFollow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Episode 36 of The Failed Experiment is now live exclusively for Patreon members. I hope all enjoy this conversion with one of the most talented photographers to capture the sport of motocross (and more), Drew Ruiz. If you are not familiar with Drew's work, I highly recommend viewing his portfolio. We dive into quite a lot in today's episode from his early years at Dirt Rider Magazine to working with Cameron Baird, Taylor Creative, Fox Racing, commercial work, and becoming a photographer by accident. I really appreciated Drew's open and transparent look into his story, the mistakes he made along the way, never wanting to be just a "moto" photographer, his take on capturing an image versus creating an image, and more. I believe I will have Drew back on the podcast again to dive into a few more topics. If you have any questions you would like to ask Drew, leave them in the comments below and I will have him back on the podcast and ask him those questions. I hope all enjoy!Support the Show.

Three months after we recorded our first conversation together (April, 2024), Nick Evennou and I were able to finally sit down one more time (July, 2024) to record part two of our conversation. And, that brings us to episode 35.In today's conversation, dive deeper into Nick's time with Yamaha of Troy, his hopes to secure a ride with YoT for the 2005 season, corporate Yamaha already knowing (most likely) the fate of YoT, exactly why he turned down an opportunity with Factory Connection Honda, battles with mental health, and more.While this one is a bit shorter of an episode, I do feel like we dove deeper into some topics and (both us) shared some personal experiences during trying times in our lives. I hope all enjoy and a big thank you to Nick for being so transparent and sincere in our conversations. The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFailedExperimentFollow Nick Evennou on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ne47/Follow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the Show.

Spencer Owens is a professional stills photographer based out of Southern California focusing his work within the action sports community. He's earned multiple cover shots for Racer X Illustrated as well working alongside clients such as 100%, Troy Lee Designs, and more. Aside from taking over a year to make this episode happen, this particular episode was truly a fascinating and illuminating discussion into the creative world of the dirt bike industry. Many stories and experiences were shared in what I hope feels like an honest yet genuine three hour conversation.The ebbs and flows, the client headaches, difficult athletes, slow payments, the mental health battles, insecurities, the progression, the successes, etc. It's all in this one. I hope all will enjoy as much as I did having this conversation with a kind, skilled, and wonderful human. Thank you, Spencer.Follow Spencer: https://www.instagram.com/spencerowensimg?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com Follow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the Show.

Melissa Gutierrez is a stand-up comedian and viral Instagram and TikTok content creator from southern California. If you haven't, I highly recommend diving into Melissa's Instagram and/or TikTok page (@fiveoclockmommy) before listening to this one. Laughs will be had!Melissa has gone viral for quite a few of her reels, but the one that caught my attention is pokes fun at the Tesla Cyber Truck.  With almost two million views alone on Instagram and, rightfully so, I was in tears from laughter when I saw that particular reel. I hope all enjoy and also give her social media accounts a follow. Especially as a parent, her humor is all too relatable. And, if you also think the Tesla Cybertruck is stupid, you will love her reels (and humor).Follow Melissa: https://www.instagram.com/fiveoclockmommy?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFailedExperimentFollow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the Show.

In today's episode we sit down with former professional motocross racer, Nick Evennou.In today's episode, we dive into Nick's career sharing his journey into racing, growing up riding with Travis Pastrana, winning a Loretta Lynn's championship, riding for Yamaha of Troy, MotoXXX, his time in Canada, and so much more.This is a fantastic conversation sharing the ebbs and flows of a turbulent career, battling mental health, injuries, family struggles, and finding a new path in the world of creative content creation.We will be back with part two in a few weeks!The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFailedExperimentFollow Nick Evennou on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ne47/Follow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the Show.

A Bakersfield, CA native, Kyle Crabb is a filmmaking within the motocross industry. Most recently, Kyle released his long form passion project on YouTube entitled, YOUNG BLOOD, which highlights the amateur motocross scene. It's a modern twist with old school sensibilities. Essentially, think a modern day version of Mini Warriors. In today's episode with Kyle, we dive into his years growing up in Bakersfield, CA, struggling with a speech impediment, how and why he got into filmmaking, cleaning pools, the mental and emotional battles he fought trying to figure out how to make a go at a career in the motocross industry, the inspiration for YOUNG BLOOD, getting away from the Instagram 9x16 trap, taking a chance on making a long form film, and so much more. This was a great conversation with an individual that decided to throw caution to the wind and make a long form piece. And, a long form piece that truly maybe the best thing done since the original Mini Warriors films of the late 1990s. If you haven't already, you can watch Kyle Crabb's film, YOUNG BLOOD, below and I hope all enjoy this conversation with somebody he took a chance on himself. The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFailedExperimentWatch YOUNG BLOOD: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUFYkqEQMMI&t=30sFollow Kyle Crabb on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kcrabb223/Follow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

A Bakersfield, CA native, Kyle Crabb is a filmmaking within the motocross industry. Most recently, Kyle released his long form passion project on YouTube entitled, YOUNG BLOOD, which highlights the amateur motocross scene. It's a modern twist with old school sensibilities. Essentially, think a modern day version of Mini Warriors. In today's episode with Kyle, we dive into his years growing up in Bakersfield, CA, struggling with a speech impediment, how and why he got into filmmaking, cleaning pools, the mental and emotional battles he fought trying to figure out how to make a go at a career in the motocross industry, the inspiration for YOUNG BLOOD, getting away from the Instagram 9x16 trap, taking a chance on making a long form film, and so much more. This was a great conversation with an individual that decided to throw caution to the wind and make a long form piece. And, a long form piece that truly maybe the best thing done since the original Mini Warriors films of the late 1990s. If you haven't already, you can watch Kyle Crabb's film, YOUNG BLOOD, below and I hope all enjoy this conversation with somebody he took a chance on himself. The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFailedExperimentWatch YOUNG BLOOD: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUFYkqEQMMI&t=30sFollow Kyle Crabb on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kcrabb223/Follow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/ Support the show

Originally from the Thousand Oaks, CA area,  Corey Martin is a Los Angeles County firefighter who is married with two children. Corey grew up riding and racing motocross with aspirations of racing professionally. However, injuries hindered that goal and, eventually, he found his way to becoming the transport driver for the TLD/Red Bull racing team during their tenure with Honda and KTM.In today's episode, we dive into Corey's early years of racing motocross, the journey to becoming a transport driver for the TLD/Red Bull racing team, how and why he decided to transition into a career as a firefighter with L.A county, the mental health aspect of the job, some wild stories about fighting fires, dealing with a gang member shooting, and so much more. This was a rad conversation with a genuine human, and I am very thankful that Corey was so transparent in sharing his ebbs and flows within the fire service and navigating some challenging times because of the things he sees and deals with on a daily basis. I hope all with enjoy this conversation and walk away with some new perspectives about the fire service and Corey's story. The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFailedExperimentFollow Corey Martin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coreyjustcruisin/?hl=enFollow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Allie Anderson is a stand-up comedian based in Los Angeles, CA. A Las Vegas, NV native, Anderson grew up with a very unique family dynamic that spilled into a very unique academic career where Harry Potter Club was the biggest club on campus. Yes, seriously.Today, we dive into Allie's upbringing with a father who had wild conspiracy theories and identified as a sovereign citizen, how she eventually found her way to California and comedy, her first time performing comedy and forgetting her set and running off stage, to eventually performing at the historic Comedy Store in Hollywood, CA, her writing process, free speech and cancel culture and how it affects the state comedy, her influences and so much more.This was truly a fascinating and transparent conversation with a kind human and one of my personal favorites. I hope all enjoy this episode and will get watch Allie perform at their local comedy club in 2024 and beyond.The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFailedExperimentFollow Allie Anderson on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allie_anderson96?igsh=NzBmMjdhZWRiYQ==Follow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Oliver Keenan-Lyu is a musical composer and audio engineer currently based in Scotland with his wife and son. Oliver has been working as a professional musical composer since 2013, working for brands such as Red Bull, American Honda, Dunkin' Donuts, Jennifer Lopez, Volvo, and more creating music for all kinds of unique projects. However, many may know Keenan-Lyu from his work on The Spectrum Series, which was a docu-series that I directed, shot and edited. Oliver was responsible for almost all of the music in that series, as well as sound mastering and sound design. In today's episode, we dive into Oliver's time in school, growing up in London, moving to Scotland, AI, working on The Spectrum Series, writing music for Premium Beats, his process for writing music, and so much more. The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFailedExperimentFollow Oliver Keenan-Lyu on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanbmarcus/?hl=en Oliver Keenan-Lyu's Portfolio: https://oliverkeenanlyu.com/Follow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Ryan Marcus is an award-winning director, filmmaker, and editor based out of the Orange County, CA. Originally with ambitions of becoming a professional skateboarder, Ryan eventually found his way behind the camera and a job at the iconic 411 Video Magazine. After his tenure at 411, Ryan moved onto DVS where he was responsible for one of the most progressive and forward-thinking motocross commercial ever done in the sport entitled, DVS Flux, with the GEICO Honda team. Eventually, Ryan spent 10+ at Fox as the head of their video department, producing, directing, shooting, and editing projects such as Alway5 with Ryan Dungey, RISE ABOVE with Ken Roczen, Deadman Walking with Justin Mulford, and much more. Now, Ryan is heading up a new studio project at Skullcandy where they are giving back to creatives with a very unique (and free) creative space called Skullcandy Studios in Costa Mesa, CA. For all my creatives out there, this is a must listen. Ryan Marcus shares so many wonderful stories about his experiences in the skate and moto industries, his strengths and weaknesses, and so much more. Ryan is a true creative through and through and I hope all enjoy this conversation. Also, visit us on Patreon for a bonus episode with Ryan where we breakdown his project with Ryan Dungey, Split Decision, where he made Ryan Dungey's KTM 450 disappear while going through set of Supercross whoops. Yes, I am serious. The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFailedExperimentFollow Ryan Marcus on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanbmarcus/?hl=en Ryan Marcus' Portfolio: https://www.ryanmarcus.com/Follow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Ryan Holliday is the team manager Team Green Kawasaki. Team Green Kawasaki is the most prestigious amateur support program within the sport of amateur motocross racing. Throughout the decades, Team Green has been responsible for the success of athletes such as Ryan Villopoto, Jeremy McGrath, Ricky Carmichael, James "Bubba" Stewart, Jeff Emig, David Bailey, and more. In today's episode, we dive into Holliday's background: growing up in Pittsburgh, PA, wanting to be a photojournalist while working at Racer X in the early 2000s, to how that transitioned into working for the AMA and eventually joining Team Green Kawasaki. For all my moto fans out there, this is a must listen. Holliday shares some wonderful stories about working alongside Mitch Payton, having his eye on the Lawrence brothers, not being able to sign Levi Kitchen several years earlier, and much more. You can also check us out on Patreon for a bonus episode breaking down the ALL IN episode I shot with Holliday. The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFailedExperimentWatch ALL IN w/ Ryan Holliday: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=foWFaZAuZU0https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dar_Oo-CGuIFollow Holliday on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanholliday/Follow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Yakov Olivarria is a film director currently residing in Riverside, CA. The writer and director of the award-winning short film, Benny Bill, Yakov opens up about the journey to write the script, and then hiring and casting the film. We also dive into his thoughts on film school as he is currently in his sophomore year of higher education with an emphasis on film, the struggles of indie-filmmaking, and so much more.Yakov's short film, Benny Bill (which I was the cinematographer on), is now available on YouTube to watch for free. Link provided below. For all my aspiring film directors and creatives, this is a must listen from somebody that is young, in the trenches trying to make films, while also attending film school. This was a wonderful conversation with some wonderful insights and stories for all creatives. Watch Benny Bill: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=foWFaZAuZU0Follow Yakov on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yakovolivarria/The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFailedExperimentFollow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

From Whittier, CA, 21-year-old Jake Isaac is a professional Supercross and motocross race mechanic for the factory TLD/Red Bull/GasGas Racing team, spinning wrenches for Pierce Brown. Prior to landing his current job with TLD/Red Bull/GasGas, Isaac was working with Derek Drake on the small, satellite team, Bar-X Suzuki. In today's episode with Jake, we dive into his early years growing up in Whittier, CA, his flat track racing career winning junior national championships, how he discovered his love for working on motorcycles, a school project he did about the factory Kawasaki team, a hilarious story about an interview he had with Pro Circuit Kawasaki's Mitch Payton, how he finally got his opportunity as a race mechanic for Derek Drake, transitioning over to the TLD/Red Bull/GasGas team, and so much more. This was such a fun and insightful conversation with a very charismatic and outgoing human. Jake is very candid in sharing his perspective on life, the ebbs and flows of how he got to where he is today, and so much more. For anyone looking for a job in the dirt bike industry, especially how to become a factory race mechanic, this episode is for you. I hope all enjoy this one! Follow Jake Isaac on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jakeisaac16/The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFailedExperimentFollow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Originally from Budds Creek, MD, Kenny Day now resides in Southern California, working at Fox Racing as the Pro Athlete Manager. Kenny works alongside athletes such as Christian Craig, Adam Cianciarulo, Ken Roczen, Max Vohland, and the entire Pro Circuit/Kawasaki team. However, prior to his position at Fox Racing, K-Day was working at Aplinestars and also Traders Racing before A-Stars. In today's episode with K-Day, we dive into his early years in Maryland and growing up at Budds Creeks, the Amish community,  his attempts to qualify for the outdoor nationals and a handful of Supercross races, working in manholes, being a mechanic and then team manager for the Traders Racing team, the highs and lows of the race team, his time at A-Stars, the opportunity at Fox Racing, exactly what his job entails at Fox Racing, and much more. K-Day is truly a kind soul with some wonderful insights about his journey and never giving up on yourself. I thoroughly enjoyed our conversation that covered such a wide array of topics and insights. I hope all enjoy listening as much as I did having this conversation.Follow Kenny Day on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kdayinthelife/?hl=enThe Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFailedExperimentFollow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

A New Jersey native, Tom Journet is a content creator within the professional Supercross and motocross world. Tom got his start with vurbmoto before helping to start Evergood Co. From there, Tom went onto handle all of the filming needs for Team Fried (Jason Anderson's creative outlet). Today, Journet is working for Racer X Illustrated as well as Hunter and Jett Lawrence creating weekly video content creation for Web and social. In today's episode with Tom, we dive into his early years growing of growing up in New Jersey, originally shooting music videos, wanting to become a teacher, how he got into filming dirt bikes, working for vurbmoto, Evergood Co., Team Fried, as well the mental health aspect of the creative world, the struggles of social media, and so much more. This was a rad conversation with an individual many look up to in the moto filmmaking/content creation world, and it was a pleasure hearing Tom's journey, struggles, and longterm goals. I hope all enjoy. Follow Tom Journet on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmguytom/The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFailedExperimentFollow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Born and raised in Seal Beach, CA, Katie Hayes is a public school teacher working in the Southern California school system with an emphasis in special education. She has been teaching for 10-years. Originally, she started teaching in private schools; however, she eventually transitioned into teaching in the public school system. In today's episode with Katie, we dive into her childhood and what it was like growing up attending private school as a student, how and why she decided to become an educator, why she transitioned from private to public, the issues with the current education system, the cons of sending children home to do homework, the effects home life can have in the classroom for a student, the lack of resources in lower income communities, why not all children are made to be test takers, why she chose special ed, challenging parents, and much more. I am probably not suppose to openly say I have a favorite episode of the podcast. But, I will say that his particular episode, similarly to episode 16 with police lieutenant, Kelli Crigler, is up there as a top favorite for me. The topic of education in the United States is very interesting for me (especially since I was a shit student with learning disabilities), so to be able to sit down with Katie and dissect the “how's” and “why's” of the education system and all that she has to do day in and day out in the classroom was very interesting. And, Katie was very candid and open in sharing her 10-years of experience in the classroom. Support The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Ricki Bedenbaugh is a professional cinematographer based in Southern California. Originally born in Tennessee before moving down to Florida, Ricki grew up in the skateboarding world with dreams of becoming a professional skater.While Ricki didn't end up as a professional skater, he did end up as a professional cinematographer in the skate world. Ricki has been apart of some of the biggest skate parts in the industry, working at 411videomagazine, and is also responsible for shooting two of the biggest kickflips ever done in skateboarding: that of Dave Bachinsky at El Toro and Ryan Sheckler at the Costco Gap.We dive into all of this, plus Ricki's transition out of skating and into the dirt bike world working for Fox Racing and shooting projects with Adam Cianciarulo, Josh Hansen, Ken Roczen, Hunter Lawrence, Jett Lawrence, along with the struggles of learning a new action sport that wasn't skating, his new freelance career and working with Sony Cine on the new movie, Gran Turismo, to shoot the Sony Venice 2 with the Rialto 2 in action. This episode has a lot of rad stories, insights, and laughs about Ricki's long and very impressive career behind the lens. And, it's all thanks to the skateboard. This was a fun one and hope all enjoy!View Ricki's portfolio: https://www.keeponpushin.com/Follow Ricki on Instagram: https://instagram.com/rickithedude?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFailedExperimentFollow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

A Huntington Beach, CA native, Sean "Borky" Borkenhagen, is a former professional Supercross and motocross athlete now working full-time with Kawasaki Motor Corporation in Tech Services. Borky is a longtime friend (we grew up riding and racing together), and this conversation was a lot of fun being able to walk down memory lane and hear his journey. We dive into his Huntington Beach, CA roots, his amateur career, winning a Loretta Lynn's championship in the 250 B class circa 2006, earning factory support from American Honda Motor Co., suffering an almost career ending injury shortly thereafter, landing a ride with the Red Bull/TLD/Honda race team, and so much more. Borky maybe one of thee, if not thee kindest soul to ever race Supercross and motocross at the levels he did. And, while he admits he didn't achieve certain goals in his professional racing career, he was able to walk away from racing on his own terms and find a career he loves with the Kawasaki Motor Corporation. Follow Sean Borkenhagen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seanborkenhagen/The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFailedExperimentFollow The Failed Experiment on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Fun fact. After recording this episode with Stu Alfano, he was shortly thereafter promoted to Art Director at 100%. Maybe we need a part two with Stu to talk about the promotion and what the role of an art director entails? Not a bad idea. Anyways, I digress...Originally a North Carolina native, he eventually made his way out to Southern California (specifically San Diego, CA) to chase an internship opportunity with Nixon. After a summer of beach life in Encinitas, CA and interning at Nixon, Stu made his way back home before again making a full time move to San Diego, CA. This time, with only a one-way ticket, a duffle bag of clothes, and nothing else. Yes, it worked out for him.We dive into Stu's journey from the east coast to the Whale's Vagina of San Diego, CA (per Ron Burgundy), almost working for a skateboarding company before the opportunity at 100% came about, living on a couch, having no method of transportation, no clothes other then what was packed in his duffle bag, and how he made his dreams and passions a reality despite the struggles that laid in front of him. Stu is an incredibly talented designer (now art director), stills photographer, and one of the most low key humorous humans I have ever met. For all my creative friends out there, this is a wonderful listen about pursing your dreams and not giving up despite the lack of necessities in the moment. Follow Stu on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stoo/?hl=enView Stu's portfolio: https://www.behance.net/stuart_alfanoSupport The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow The Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

A Boston, MA  native, Allison Keddie is a former private school and public school educator. Working in the education system for six years, Allison's emphasis was within the special ed area of education. However, after six years in the education system, she walked away from her career to pursue her dreams of becoming a professional stills photographer.In today's episode with Allison, we dive into her journey to the education system, the good, bad, and ugly of that world, why she walked away from it to pursue a career as a creative, her passion for still photography, how being in the early stages of her photographic career is going, her accomplishments, goals, and struggles of living in the creative space amongst much more!It was a lot of fun to sit down with Allison and hear the journey and also her perspective of the creative space as she's only been in it since 2019. I hope all enjoy her insights and, if you don't already, give her a follow on Instagram and view her work. She's got an incredible eye and a bright future ahead of herself.Follow Allison on Instagram: https://instagram.com/allisontulkphotography?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==Visit Allison's Portfolio: https://www.allisontulkphotography.com/Support The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow The Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/ Support the show

Kelli Crigler is a Police Lieutenant working within the Southern California area. Kelli has been a police officer for 18-years; two of those years as an unsworn police officer aide. For almost the last four years of her career, she's been the Police Lieutenant of her current department.This episode is a big one. We dive into everything from Kelli's early years growing up, childhood trauma and removing her mom from her life, to how and why she became a police officer, and the struggles of women in law enforcement (especially one in command).We also dive deep into the poor light shined on law enforcement because of excessive use of force, the defunding of police departments, how officers can change their public perception, over populated prisons, community policing, budget cuts, and so much more.Regardless of your viewpoints on police officers and policing within the United States, I hope all will give this entire episode an unbiased listen to hear directly from an individual that has been on the front lines as a police officer for nearly 20-years. I wanted this episode to be as unbiased as possible and, hopefully, the questions and conversations had here can shed some perspective on policing and how both sides (civilians and officers) can improve the relationship and close the divide. Support The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow The Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/ Support the show

A high desert rat from Hesperia, CA, Kris Keefer is a former professional Supercross and motocross racer who is now working as a full-time test rider in various capacities. At his company, Keefer Inc, he tests motorcycles and products within the dirt bike world and does editorial and video reviews for the consumer. He is also a  podcast host of the Rocky Mountain ATV/MC Keefer Tested podcast where he tests bikes, gear, accessories, and hard parts, as well as a test rider for different motorcycle manufactures where manufactures hire him to do private testing on not yet released dirt bikes to help the brand improve overall performance. In today's episode, Keefer dives into his formative years as a kid growing up in the high desert, being bullied at school, taking care of his ailing mother, how he got into riding and racing dirt bikes, not riding his first-ever Supercross race until he was 27-years old, leading the heat race at Anaheim 3 in 2004, mental health, how working for Yamaha Motor Co. destroyed his marriage, realizing it was time to walk away from his editorial roots at Dirt Rider, testing the Alta, the electric bike movement, our fandom of Tom DeLonge and Angels & Airwaves, and many laughs and off the rail stories. Keefer is one of the good guys in the dirt bike industry, and our conversation was illuminating, honest, genuine, and filled with insights and wonderful stories I hope all that are passionate about the motocross industry will enjoy. Follow Kris Keefer: https://www.instagram.com/kkeefer120/Visit His Web site: https://www.keeferinctesting.com/Listen to his podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rocky-mountain-atv-mc-keefer-tested/id1245516386The Failed Experiment on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheFailedExperimentFollow The Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Originally from Tucson, AZ, Mike Williamson is a gaffer/chief lighting technician (CLT) working in Hollywood, CA on commercials and music videos. After graduating from the University of Nevada Las Vegas, Williamson made the move to Los Angeles, CA to pursue his dreams of working in the film industry. Since making the move, Williamson has worked with clients such as Apple, Captain Morgan USA, Urban Plates, Honda Motor Co, along with artists such as Lady Gaga, Nicki Minaj, Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine, Wiz Khalifa, and more. In my conversation with Williamson, we dive into his early years growing up in Tucson, AZ and wanting to get out of a city that had nothing going for it by way of filmmaking, how and why he fell in love with lighting and wanting to become a gaffer, the ebbs and flows of working as a freelance filmmaker, advice for up and coming gaffers, working with high level musicians and artists such as Lady Gaga and Tom Morello, the not so sexy business side of things when it comes to buying gear and doing your taxes, being a kind person, working on car commercials, having interests outside of work, and a whole host of other topics. This was a lot of fun and Mike is truly a good dude, working his ass off in Hollywood. Selfishly, I hope we are able to work together again soon because he brings good energy and a rad attitude to set, which is half the battle. Follow Mike Williamson: https://www.instagram.com/mikewilliamsoncinema/?hl=enView Mike's  portfolio: https://www.sleeplessformat.com/Support The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow The Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

David Pingree is a former professional athlete, racing Supercross and motocross from 1993 to 2003. Pingree rode for Splitfire/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki, Primal Impulse Suzuki, factory Red Bull/KTM, and MotoWorld Suzuki before transitioning into the editorial life for Racer X Magazine.A multi-time Supercross race winner, Pingree was a title threat throughout a majority of his career. Most notably, the 2000 125 West Coast Championship, where he fell two points shy of the championship to Shae Bentley. In this episode, we dive into aforementioned 2000 SX season, and Pingree recalls the race that truly cost him the championship (probably not the round you think it would be), his transition out of racing and into the editorial world, joining the fire service, starting the Whiskey Throttle Show podcast,  the  struggles of running a media site in a world dominated by social media, and much more.Follow David Pingree: https://instagram.com/davidpingree101?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==Subscribe to The Whiskey Throttle Show:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-whiskey-throttle-show/id1446241727Follow Whiskey Throttle Media: https://instagram.com/whiskeythrottlemedia?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==Support The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow The Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Originally from Glendora, CA, Ryan Cooley is an account director,  producer, and business owner of The Medium Creative Group, a creative agency specializing in still photography, video production, graphic design, Web design and more. Based in Costa Mesa, CA, Cooley and co-owner of the MCG, Luis Rodriguez works with clients such as Red Bull, Nike, American Honda, Toyota, Schwinn, Brixton, Cannondale, and more. However, before the MCG was birthed, Cooley got his start in the motocross industry working at TransWorld Motocross Magazine as associate editor and then managing editor from 2003 to 2008. Cooley, Garth Milan, and Luis worked together at TWMX, building the magazine into the most creatively iconic and powerful publications within the motocross world. The three of them eventually parted ways from TWMX to start The Medium Creative Group. And, Cooley shares the journey at TWMX and why and how the MCG came to fruition. For anyone in the creative world or looking to start their own agency, this is a great listen for you. Cooley candidly opens up about the trials and tribulations of operating and owning a small business in the state of California, keeping up with the trends, wearing many different hats on set, as well as diving into the early years of TWMX, his first-ever assignment for the magazine, and more.  Visit the MCG Portfolio: https://themediumcg.com/Follow the MCG: https://instagram.com/themediumcg?igshid=Y2IzZGU1MTFhOQ==Support The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow The Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Jeff Emig is a retired professional Supercross and motocross athlete who now works in television broadcasting, handling the color analyst for the World Supercross Championship. Prior to his television career, Emig rode for factory Yamaha and factory Kawasaki throughout the 1990s. He won the 1992 125 outdoor motocross championship, the 1996 250 outdoor motocross championship, and the 1997 Supercross and outdoor motocross championships.This episode with Emig dives into all kinds of fascinating conversations. We discuss him failing the eighth grade, wanting to be a rockstar not an athlete, the moment he knew he broke Jeremy McGrath's spirit during the '96 outdoor motocross championship, factory Yamaha not paying him enough to win, kicking Mike LaRacoo in the back, his factory salaries at Yamaha and Kawasaki, the moment he realized his professional racing career was truly over (two years after his major injury), and so much more. I thoroughly enjoyed this conversation and being able to sit down and pick Emig's brain about what maybe the most iconic era of professional Supercross and motocross racing (The '90s). I would love to have Fro back for a part two to discuss the iconic motocross films he was apart of like Crusty Demons of Dirt , Thor's Full Power Trip and, of course, Frezno Smooth. Follow Jeff Emig: https://www.instagram.com/emig47/ Support The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow the Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Casey Davis is an action sports filmmaker with an emphasis in the Supercross and motocross world, based out of Southern California. Casey works with the creative outfit, Octopi Media, alongside Garth Milan and Ryne Swanberg, handling video needs for clients such as Monster Energy/Star Racing Yamaha, Scott Goggles, Kawasaki Motor Co, and more.Casey's story is incredibly wild and, for any and all filmmakers (new or veterans), an important listen. Casey dives into his journey to earn his dream job at TransWorld Motocross Magazine, the years of struggling to earn that position only for it to be ripped away from him without warning, his battle with depression and anger management, finding his footing to push through the lowest point of his life, landing on his feet at Octopi Media, and so much more.My conversation with Casey couldn't have been anymore transparent and inspiring. I truly enjoyed learning so much about such a kind and talented human and hope all enjoy Casey's story and complete transparency in sharing his successes and failures. Follow Casey Davis: https://instagram.com/air_d617?igshid=Y2IzZGU1MTFhOQ==Follow Octopi Media: https://instagram.com/octopi.media?igshid=Y2IzZGU1MTFhOQ==https://www.instagram.com/kitkarzen/Support The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow the Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Kit Karzen is an Emmy award-winning stills photographer and photo journalist based out of Los Angeles, CA working with clients such as the NFL, Amazon Studios, CBS, CNN, Netflix, Nike, Team L39ION Los Angeles, Zwift, Hammerhead, Oakley, Playboy, Stance, and many more. Originally, Karzen started racing cycling at a young age and eventually started racing at a  professional level for the USA National team, traveling the globe to race his bicycle. Eventually, he walked away from cycling for a career in marketing at Oakley. Shortly thereafter, he then transitioned into the world of photography and photo journalism, documenting the presidential campaign for Kamala Harris and other political events. However, Karzen eventually found his way back into cycling by way of Justin Williams and Team L39ION Los Angeles, photographing the teams rise and goals of changing the perception of cycling. Kit's story is a wild one. We dive into all of the aforementioned and when and how he came out as a gay man, the homophobic hate messages and death threats he still receives today for being a gay man (especially within the world of cycling), how he landed a job photographing the NFL, and so much more. This was truly an illuminating and transparent conversation about mental health, financial struggles, finding his way as a photographer, overcoming the blatant discrimination in cycling, and so much more.Kit Karzen's Portfolio: https://www.kitkarzen.com/ Follow Kit Karzen: https://www.instagram.com/kitkarzen/Support The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow the Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Jordan Powell is a Southern California based filmmaker and cinematographer working within the action sports world. Originally cutting his teeth as the in-house video editor at TransWorld Motocross Magazine, Powell has since gone onto to work with clients such as Red Bull Media House, American Honda Motor Co., Capelli, Thor MX, and also spent several years working as a wedding cinematographer. Aside from discussing Powell's work and the ebbs and flows of working as a freelance filmmaker, Powell gets very candid in discussing his mental health struggles, personal battles with his family, and how so much of this trauma affected him throughout his life. Tears are not shed, but damn did it get very heavy and very real. This conversation was truly from the heart. There is much to be learned from Powell's story, his struggles, his successes, and his resilience to fight the good fight, break the cycle, and go after his dreams. Follow Jordan Powell: https://www.instagram.com/powelldigitalmedia/?hl=en Follow his new company:  https://www.instagram.com/mulligoonsgolf/?hl=enSupport The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow the Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Originally from south Texas, Troy Murrah is a musician and artist now residing in Southern California with his wife and three children. Troy dives into his story of working as a set designer in the early 2000s for Comedy Central's, The Man Show, with Jimmy Kimmel and Adam Carolla, how he picked up a guitar and eventually started his two piece punk rock band, RESTAVRANT, (yes, the band's name is spelt with a V), working as a full-time artist creating wooden quilts, the documentary that took us five years to complete, not drinking water and almost dying while on tour with his band, and a whole lot more.This episode is a long one, but so damn fun and has so many comical stories of Troy's life experiences, debauchery on tour, his path in his career of art, his love for history, and more. I truly enjoyed this conversation and I hope you do as all. Troy is truly the epitome of an artist and somebody who inspires me daily within my own craft. Follow Troy Murrah: https://www.instagram.com/troy.murrah/ Follow RESTAVRANT: https://www.instagram.com/restavrant/?hl=enFollow Troy Murrah's Art: https://www.instagram.com/builtquilt/Built Quilt: https://www.builtquilt.com/Watch our documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Nx-DVxSgt0Support The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow the Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Shannon Stutenroth is a 1st AC (Assistant Camera) and cinematographer currently residing in Los Angeles, CA working on narrative, commercial, documentary, and branded content. Originally from Pennsylvania, Shannon had quite the road map in terms of education. She spent time in Philadelphia, California, and New York before graduating from the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York. Shannon's film career started after graduating from the Pratt Institute and moving to Los Angeles, CA in 2019 to work as a production assistant on a feature film. Shannon shares her story about arriving in Los Angeles, CA only to find out the PA position and the feature as a whole fell through. However, since then she's managed to find steady work as a 1st AC, cinematographer, and sometimes gaffer (if you don't throw shit on set) on narrative and commercial sets. Shannon's perspective and journey in the cut throat film industry is one of maintaining a good attitude, being easy to work with, and rolling with the punches. I thoroughly enjoyed our conversation and hope all who listen to Shannon's insights can gain further inspiration and motivation to pursue their goals. View Shannon's Portfolio: https://shannonstutenroth.wixsite.com/shannonstutenrothFollow Shannon: https://www.instagram.com/sh_nn0n/?hl=enSupport The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow the Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Chris Ray is a skateboarder and filmmaker residing in Southern California with his wife and kids. Partners with Martin Fobes at Motion Clubhouse (their production company), Chris is responsible for some of the most influential skate videos over the last 15+ years. In today's episode, Chris shares his journey from working crummy jobs while pursuing his passion for filmmaking in the skate industry, turning down a six figure job offer from DC Shoes (yes, you read that right), to accepting the same job offer a year later, leaving DC Shoes after 10-years to start Motion Clubhouse with Martin, and our deep love for Taco Bell amongst a whole host of other topics. For all of my filmmaking friends out there, this is truly an insightful look at one of the hardest working individuals in action sports. Chris provides invaluable insights on his journey and how others can apply hard work, kindness, and punctuality to find success as a creative. View Chris' Portfolio: https://www.motionclubhouse.comFollow Chris Ray on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisrayfilms/?hl=enSupport The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow the Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Originally from a small-town in Michigan, Martin Fobes is a professional filmmaker and also a skateboarded now residing in Huntington Beach, CA with his wife and pup. Martin is partners with Chris Ray at their production company called Motion Clubhouse where Martin and Chris work with clients such as DC Shoes, Fender, Ford, Nissan, GoPro, and more creating commercials, documentaries, branded content, and more. In today's episode, Martin shares his discovery of skateboarding and filmmaking and how he managed to turn them into the career he has today. We dive into packing up his car and driving across the country to Huntington Beach, CA to pursue his filmmaking career, landing a job in the films department at DC Shoes, shooting Robbie Maddison's Pipe Dream, starting Motion Clubhouse, shooting one of the biggest podcasts in the world (HubermanLab), his favorite camera gear, and a whole host of other topics. Martin is truly a kind, humble, and determined filmmaker who has carved out a very successful career for himself within the action sports world, and it was wonderful hearing his journey and the ups and downs that he's endured throughout it! View Martin's Portfolio: https://www.motionclubhouse.comRent Martin's Gear: https://www.sharegrid.com/p/loukacreativeFollow Martin: https://www.instagram.com/martinfobes/?hl=enSupport The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow the Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Brad Resnick is a Southern California native currently working as a filmmaker within the action sports community for The Brand Amp, an Orange County, CA based production company. Before landing his position with the production company, Brad cut his teeth within in the world of Supercross and motocross racing, working full time as the in-house filmmaker for VitalMX. However, what maybe the most impressive part of Brad's story is that he has his college degree in film production. Why is that impressive? Because I am convinced Brad is the only filmmaker to work within the motocross industry that has a degree in film production. Most all of us are self-taught monkeys pointing these little boxes and pushing buttons without a real education. Brad's story is a fun one. We dive into his BMX roots and his original goals of being a professional BMX rider, his time in college and how hard work and stubbornness got him into the action sports industry at VitalMX, his transition to agency life, and much more. Follow Brad Resnick: https://www.instagram.com/b_resnickmedia/?hl=enSupport The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow the Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Justin Kosman is a commercial stills photographer and filmmaker based out of San Diego, CA. Originally from Illinois, Kosman made the move to Southern California (specifically Huntington Beach, CA) in the early 2000s to live with former 2002 X Games gold medalist, Robbie Miranda, and commence his action sports career with X Games doing their research for BMX and motocross. Kosman goes in-depth about his journey from a small town in Illinois to now residing in San Diego, CA and working for clients such as Petco, Puma, Cobra Golf, Vans, Red Bull, DC Shoes, Nike, Apple, and more. Justin also shares a very heartfelt story about his time around the late Dave Mirra, the hilarious aspect of the comment section on sites like YouTube, the ebbs and flows of a creative career, finding the humor in the sometimes weird world of filmmaking, and so much more. This was a jam packed episode with wonderful stories and insights shared from a truly talented and kind human that is Justin Kosman. Justin Kosman's Portfolio: https://www.justinkosman.com/Follow Justin Kosman: https://www.instagram.com/justinkosman/?hl=enSupport The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow the Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

T.J. Signaigo is a gaffer and Local 728 Set Lighting Technician based in Los Angeles, CA working on major TV and movie productions such as Yellowstone, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, Insecure, Daisy Jones & the Six, The Baxters, and more. Originally a San Diego, CA native, T.J., discusses his early years growing up in San Diego, CA and what it was like playing in a small punk rock band during his formative years in high school.We also discuss the hilarious story of how we met via a Craigslist ad I made in need of a gaffer for a cooking show, what it is like working on big, union sets, his love for punk rock music, the San Diego Padres, and, of course, our mutual admiration for Blink 182 and Tom DeLonge. This was a lot of fun with a lot of laughs.Follow T.J. Signaio: https://www.instagram.com/signaigo_/ Support The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow The Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show

Host of The Failed Experiment, Kyle Cowling, welcomes everybody to the podcast and explains exactly what TFE is all about. Support The Failed Experiment: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2156809/supporters/newFollow The Failed Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/_thefailedexperiment/Follow Kyle Cowling: https://www.instagram.com/kylecowling/Support the show