Life Behind Bars

On this episode, we sit down with two experts from the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) to discuss the ins and outs of trail advocacy and policy. Dedicated to building a nation connected by trails, RTC focuses on reimagining public spaces to create safe, accessible pathways for everyone to walk, bike, and stay active outdoors. Tune in to learn how their national efforts are shaping local trail de...

On this episode, we sit down with two state-level leaders who are bridging the gap between transportation and public health in Indiana. From public health, transportation, quality of life, and safety, this episode is full of information. Joining us are Pete Fritz , Healthy Communities Planner in the Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity at the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH), and Brandon...

On this week’s episode, we sit down with Brian Rismiller with V3 Companies . Brian plays a major role in the development of major biking and pedestrian infrastructure across Indiana. For Brian, patience isn't just a virtue—it’s a way of life. Whether he’s managing complex land surveys as a Senior Project Manager or competing as an elite athlete, his persistence is his greatest asset. At V3, Brian...

On this week's episode, we interview local cyclist, Tommy Southwood. He travels all over the state and and USA to ride his bike. But these rides aren't just a simple ride, they are unique approved events with the Randonneurs USA and the Indiana Randonneurs . Self supported long distance cycling events with mandatory checkpoints (controls) that has the riders racing against themselves and the clock...

On this week's episode, we chat with Luke Waltz of LOWLAND Workshop out of Rockville, Indiana. We discuss the ins and outs of how architecture plays a major role in trail development and other public spaces that impact the cycling world. LOWLAND Workshop specializes in environmental planning and crafting exterior landscape environments—including parks, public spaces, and experiences that connect p...

On today's episode, we bring back Michael Mathias from Marion Cycle Works and Ben Orcutt from Buckskin Bikes to talk about bike things we LOVE . We'd like to celebrate Valentine's Day with a special detailed discussion about all the different bike products we love...and hate (*wink*). From starting your own bike tool collection, to what bike lube we recommend, we hope you enjoy this discussion. Wa...

We are kicking off the 2026 year with an episode about advocacy and creating change here in Indiana. This discussion is with two Hoosiers (who now live in North Carolina) advocating for change not only in their hometown but across the US. Griffin Tichenor and Maddie Barondeau lost two loved ones last year in July due to a distracted driver. They hope their experiences and stories help encourage al...

These two have been friends on and off the bike for years. Both bike shop owners have so much experience in this industry, we are stoked to have this great discussion. This episode we talk with Michael Mathias from Marion Cycle Works and Ben Orcutt from Buckskin Bikes. We discuss popular topics that are common in bike shops or in the industry. If you have any questions or concerns that you would l...

Listen to the previous episode about the Indiana Kentucky Cycling Association (INKY) . Learn more about our local cyclocross series, OVCX and listen to this episode . USA Cycling (USAC) is the national governing body for the sport of cycling in the United States and oversees the disciplines of Road, Track, Mountain Bike, Cyclocross, and Elite BMX. Becoming an official allows you to be a critical p...

The Indiana Kentucky Cycling Association is the member Local Association of USA Cycling that represents the interests of bicycle racers in the states of Indiana and Kentucky. The all-volunteer board is elected by USA Cycling members or license holders in both represented states. Typically each position is held for 2 years with elections held to elect a new board. Elected board members must be lice...

On this week's episode we chat with two coaches in the Indianapolis area. Whether you want to enhance your fitness and cycling or searching for some extra support during your rides and fitness journey, hire a coach! With over five years as a Retul-certified bike fitter at Motion Cycling & Fitness, Kelsey's expertise lies in improving cycling performance and comfort through advanced movement an...

Part Two - Health 101 with Christine Tanner. On this week's episode we chat with a Health Coach and Nutritionist about the importance of annual blood work and diet. Chris Tanner is located in Carmel, Indiana but assists clients all over the USA and world. "As I approached my 50th birthday, I noticed changes in my body. The foods I once enjoyed no longer had the same effect, my energy was low, and...

On this week's episode, we talk to Dr. Chemen Neal, MD., about general health on and off the bike. We discuss women's (and men's) health and general topics about how to feel great on the bike. Dr. Chemen M. Neal, MD, received her undergraduate degree from San Diego State University and medical degree from the University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine. She completed residency in obstetrics...

THE SCIENCE BEHIND YOUR NEXT BREAKTHROUGH - VQ LABS On this week's episode we chat with three crew members from VQ Labs . Owner, Jeremy Wilson dives into the history and the future of the business with his two employees, Sherri Branaman and Chandler Horton. From a variety of performance testing to full exclusive bike trips and rides, VQ Labs has it all. "For years, athletes, fitness enthusiasts, a...

On this week's episode we chat with a local bike shop about e-bikes! E-bikes are transforming the cycling world and we hope this discussion sheds light on the different questions about e-bikes. This discussion is with the owner, Lee Ann McLay and staff. eBoom Electric Bikes was imagined and built into a retail business by Robin Coffman and me in 2016. We opened in the spring of 2017. eBoom also se...

On this week's episode we chat with Tom Hanley and Aryn Coomes of Nine13Sports ! We dive into this organization's mission and goals and how you can support them. Nine13sports® was founded in Indianapolis, IN as a health & fitness focused nonprofit over the course of 2012 by former national champion cyclist Tom Hanley. As Tom traveled as a competitive athlete he saw that most of the kids at the...

On this week's episode, we chat with three trail bosses who help manage three Indianapolis mountain bike trails. Indy Trail Collective , in partnership with HMBA, is a new chapter that oversees the mountain bike trails in Indianapolis: Fort Harrison, Town Run Trail Park, and Southwestway. Get Involved with Indy Trail Collective! Fuel the Trails You Love! Become an HMBA Member Today! "Ready to make...

On this week's episode, we chat with Carly Kane who is a a local elite BMX racer. Her hometown is Guilford, Indiana and she is a Pro BMX racer for Huffy. She's been racing bikes for 15 years and is extremely passionate about improving herself. She hopes to see more Hoosier get involved with BMX today. Check local groups on Facebook or visit https://www.pumptraxusa.com. This is a two part series! L...

On this week's episode, we chat with a local BMX racer that has grown up in the culture and community of the sport. BMX racing was very popular in the 80s in the state and we talk about the ups and downs of why BMX has become less popular in Indiana. We talk about the history as well as the current races and tracks across the state. This is a two part series! " BMX is a bicycle racing sport on tra...

On this week's episode we chat with Andy Kirchoff with STS Bicycles out of Rushville, Indiana. STS Bicycles creates custom frames for every rider. Specializing in off-road gravel bikes, STS Bicycles has a great history here in Indiana. "From day 1, Andy has been here for guidance, passion, design, and occasionally riding a bike. A cycling enthusiast for over 35 years. Andy's life has always been d...

On this week's episode we chat with Andy Kirchoff with STS Bicycles out of Rushville, Indiana. STS Bicycles creates custom frames for every rider. Specializing in off-road gravel bikes, STS Bicycles has a great history here in Indiana. "From day 1, Andy has been here for guidance, passion, design, and occasionally riding a bike. A cycling enthusiast for over 35 years. Andy's life has always been d...

On this week's episode, we interview the dynamic duo in Nashville. Kate grew up BMX racing and in the outskirts of Detroit while Danielle and her friends rode bikes through the backcountry near Evansville Indiana. When they got together in 2013 these two truly started living a life filled with adventure: riding, racing, backpacking, camping and enjoying the beauty of nature. These experiences led...

Bonus Episode! This short episode is a fun interview with Marc O'Leary's Uncles and father. Over the past couple of years, the Dust Bowl 100 has brought the O'Leary family together. The four O'Leary brothers always enjoy coming out to Eminence to support this race. We talk about their volunteer experiences and all the wonderful stories. We recommend all listeners to take a moment to listen to the...

First episode of 2025 (Season 2) for Life Behind Bars! ​ On this week's episode we (finally) chat with Marc O'Leary, owner and race director of the Dust Bowl 100 Presented by Zipp. Connect with Dust Bowl 100 on Instagram and Facebook , also sign up to volunteer at the race today! The Dust Bowl 100 presented by Zipp is meant to celebrate gravel, racing and community. Three distances are available (...

On this week's episode, we chat with two Indiana DNR employees about the Next Level Trails (NLT) grant program. We talk about how to apply for this grant but also the ins and outs how to start to advocate and think about adding trails to your area. The Indiana DNR has been transforming the trails systems with the NLT program since 2018. Connect with the Indiana DNR today! Email: nextleveltrails@dn...