Bike Life

What does it take to circle the globe by bicycle? Follow Ted Eliason’s four-year solo journey across 56 countries and over 82,000 kilometers. A journey propelled by a desire to escape the corporate world and experience life at pedal-stroke speed. From sandstorms in Kazakhstan to chaotic Indian roads, he shares stories of unexpected kindness, raw challenges, and the transformation that comes from p...

Follow Tyler Epstein, a high school teacher and coach, who embarked on his first cross-country bike tour, riding nearly 2,700 miles from Missouri to the Oregon coast in less than a month. Trading his usual coaching duties for a lightweight gravel bike, he battled mountain sleet, equipment failures, and tight deadlines while discovering how athletic grit and adaptability fuel epic adventures on two...

Would you leave everything behind to cycle through 35 countries—even if you weren’t a cyclist? That’s exactly what Simon Brain and his fiancée did, turning a bold idea into a three-year journey across the world. They share how curiosity carried them from wild camping and cultural surprises to tense encounters with border patrols. Along the way, they discovered resilience, deepened their partnershi...

What drives someone to cycle from Italy to Iran—and back again—through more than twenty countries?   Matthias Schwarz takes us on a journey sparked by friendship, shaped by world events, and enriched by the connections made along the way. From Balkan fountains to Iranian hospitality, every mile reveals both striking similarities and unique differences across cultures. Along the route, ch...

Ever wonder what it’s like to cycle 60,000 kilometers across continents with nothing but a shoestring budget and a love for simplicity? Isaak Vanthomme takes us on a five-year journey from icy Canadian roads to the jungles and highlands of Central and South America—facing challenges, embracing minimalism, and forging unforgettable connections along the way. Packed with stories of adventure, compan...

What happens when the freedom of cycling becomes both a necessity and a joy? Discover the transformative journey of Jeffrey McElfresh, who is living with CMT1A, a condition that challenges walking but unlocks freedom on two wheels. From conquering multi-state rides to starring in a PBS documentary, he showcases the resilience and joy found in cycling despite physical challenges. Jeffrey shares tal...

Discover the journey of Paul Edkins and Vivien Metairie, two solo cyclists who embarked from Europe with dreams of reaching South Africa, only to find unexpected friendship and adventure in Ethiopia. From navigating bustling cities and challenging terrains to sharing stories over campfires, their experiences shine a light on the joy of unplanned encounters and mutual support during the toughest st...

Embark on an inspiring journey with Calliopé Georgousi, who traveled across 12 European countries, from the UK to Greece. Along the way, they navigated diverse landscapes, unexpected route changes, and found a balance between solitude and community. Through moments of vulnerability, resilience, and personal growth, the adventure showcases the transformative power of traveling alone and the profoun...

Discover the incredible journey of PL and Kristen Meindertsma, who are cycling across five continents over five years for five causes, aiming to raise $2.5 million for organizations in business, sports, and education. Beyond exploring the world, their mission reflects a deeper quest for purpose, highlighting the impact of meaningful connections and the importance of giving back. PL and Kristen sha...

Discover what happens when a passion for travel evolves into a lifelong adventure on two wheels. Join Helen Dainty, a.k.a. hels on wheels, who has pedaled through 90 countries over nearly two decades. She shares tales from remote Australian outback trails to vibrant cities like Barcelona. Explore the realities of long-distance bicycle touring—from camping under the stars to memorable encounters wi...

Discover the allure of cycling in Rwanda with Bruno Peelman as he unveils the country's hidden gems and adventurous spirit. From the scenic Congo Nile Trail to vibrant local culture and smooth roads, Rwanda offers a safe and unforgettable biking experience. Join us as we delve into the camaraderie of small group tours, the thrill of remote trails, and the rich tapestry of Rwanda's history, all wra...

What does it take to build a biking partnership that spans decades and thousands of miles? Ken Francis and Phillip Robinson share how a chance online meeting led to unforgettable adventures across the US, Europe, and beyond—from self-supported rides in the Pacific Northwest to creative hybrid trips combining trains, roller coasters, and open-road cycling. Through the highs of thrilling coasters an...

What drives someone to cycle the entire Pacific Coast alone—and how does it change them? Cat Lau shares her journey of overcoming cultural expectations, tackling tough terrain, and discovering deep self-reliance. From the kindness of the cycling community to nights spent camping under the stars, this episode explores how adventure can lead to healing and empowerment. Balancing work, personal growt...

What happens when creativity meets the open road? Artist James Crossley shares his inspiring project, Middle Ground , where a cargo bike becomes a moving canvas. This unique residency invites artists to travel through diverse landscapes, connect with communities, and create art along the way. Discover how cycling can spark spontaneous conversations, bridge urban and rural worlds, and turn a journe...

How does one overcome polio and diabetes to embark on an incredible cycling journey? In this inspiring episode, Ken Reinke shares how he pedaled across the country multiple times after turning sixty. In fact, Ken has ridden over 9,000 miles since his 67th birthday! From Florida to San Diego and beyond, he embraced freedom on the road while carefully managing his health. With stories of stealth cam...

Join Emma Karslake as she shares her passion for cycling as the ultimate means of exploration. Her early adventures in South America set the tone for a life dedicated to discovering the world on two wheels, embracing both the challenges and the exhilarating freedom it offers. Emma shares invaluable strategies and heartfelt stories, illuminating the path for women adventurers navigating the globe s...

What drives someone to embark on a two-and-a-half-year biking adventure across the globe? Join us as we explore the intriguing world of long-distance cycling with Ben Clark, who is currently traveling through Southeast Asia on a 35,000-kilometer bike tour. This episode offers a glimpse into the life of a digital nomad, highlighting the challenges and rewards of embracing a lifestyle often spent on...

Mark Tovell takes us on an exhilarating ride through Taiwan’s lush landscapes and formidable peaks. He shares essential tips for navigating Taiwan’s diverse climates and challenging cycling routes, from the importance of a reliable rain jacket to tackling steep gradients in the mountainous regions. He provides insights into the island's impressive road quality, supportive infrastructure, and uniqu...

Scott Sharick shares how a stroke served as both a wake-up call and a motivator to embrace an active and spontaneous lifestyle. Fueled by the kindness of strangers and the allure of unpaved roads, his journey through Southeast Asia encompasses more than just the kilometers traveled. From the bustling streets of Thailand to the remote villages of Cambodia, every pedal stroke tells a story of resili...

Lisa Watts takes us on an epic 3,000-mile journey from Florida to Maine via the East Coast Greenway. Along the way, she embraces life's simplicity and the enriching experiences found in unexpected moments on the road, from the practicalities of wider bike tires and the comfort they provide to the wisdom gained in balancing adventure with safety. Lisa teaches us the importance of enjoying the journ...

Join us as Justin Wolfenberg and his children, Henry and Leila, share the trials and triumphs of cycling the TransAmerica Route together as a family. With resilience and perseverance, they face everything from biking through snow and managing high-speed crashes to navigating diverse landscapes and weather conditions. Their bond grew stronger through every challenge, and they encountered unexpected...

In this repeat of one of our most downloaded shows, Sheelagh Daly takes us on an inspiring solo journey across Europe that blends stamina, self-discovery, and the fine art of fueling your body during extended tours. With insightful advice on maintaining optimal nutrition, she offers practical tips on making healthy choices even when options are limited and learning to recognize the nuanced hunger...

What drives someone to visit every National Park in the lower 48 states by bike? Spencer McCullough recounts his incredible journey across 18,000 miles, highlighting encounters with generous locals and enduring connections with Warmshowers hosts. He shares the importance of strong wheel sets and the lessons learned from unexpected mechanical breakdowns on remote farm roads. Spencer blends environm...

Liz Pomeroy, better known as 0Stella, has seamlessly combined a passion for music with long-distance cycling. Ride along on their awe-inspiring journey that began on Earth Day, 2022, and stretched for 5.5 months across thousands of kilometers. Along the way, an unexpected knee injury and subsequent adaptations led to a remarkable adventure filled with perseverance, community connections, and the c...

Explore the evolving landscape of bike touring through the lens of seasoned traveler Jeff Jinnett. He shares tales of enduring the heat, battling steep terrains, and finding unexpected kindness from strangers over 40 years on the road. Jeff’s story is a rollercoaster of perseverance and gratitude, featuring grueling climbs toward Lake Tahoe and the icy refreshment of a Ben and Jerry’s break....