MOVING THE NEEDLE : The Andrew Neethling Podcast

In this episode, we dive into the world of elite mountain biking with Jamie Read, of Athlete Optimization, a renowned high-performance MTB coach who’s helped some of the sport’s top athletes reach their peak. With years of experience blending cutting-edge training techniques and mental performance strategies, Jamie has built a reputation for unlocking riders' full potential both on and off the bik...

In anticipation of the Deathgrip 2 release here is a rerelease of the episode if you missed it with exclusive Deathgrip 2 chat and his " retirement " Brendan Fairclough  known as BRENDOG is one of the biggest stars in MTB. The original free racer is back on the show to chat about "retirement" from World Cup racing..sort of, his new movie DEATHGRIP 2, racing alongside Sam Hill, and what the future...

In this episode, we sit down with Clay Harper, the driving force behind the Monster Energy Pro Downhill Series and a Co-Founder of the US Open. A lifelong advocate for mountain biking. With a career spanning decades, Clay is an event organizer and ambassador for the sport. Clay shares stories from his time working with elite riders, the challenges of organizing top-tier events, and his vision for...

Luca Shaw is one of the fastest and most skilled racers in the world of Downhill Mountain Biking. In a sport where risk-taking is often rewarded, Luca’s calculated approach sets him apart—and it’s paying off. Known as one of the nicest guys on the circuit, we dive into his experiences being mentored by two of the greatest to ever race, what it’s like to be teammates with Troy Brosnan, and his futu...

Anton Thelander was a mountain biking slopestyle phenom, rising to the pinnacle of the sport and sharing podiums with his childhood idols. Imagine reaching the summit of your dreams, only to have injuries derail your career and force you to step away at the tender age of 24. It’s a profound journey of self-discovery and resilience. Episode Sponsors: AG1 AG1 is going to give you a FREE 1 year suppl...

Rampage 2024. What an incredible event! Join us as we welcome Cam McCaul, the freeride legend and on-site announcer, to the show to dissect all the action. This year marked a significant milestone with the introduction of a dedicated category for the ladies. We’ll analyze the winning runs and discuss some performances that we believe deserve higher scores. Don't miss this insightful breakdown!

The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Sven Martin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race throughout the year. We break down the final round in Mont-Saint-Anne, Canada. This series is brought to you by Crankbrothers. Be sure to check out all the latest  HERE  Use discount code MOVINGTHENEEDLE for 25% off on a P...

Jaxson Riddle is a rising star in freeride mountain biking. Known for his fearless approach and innovative style, he is carving his own unique path in the sport, pushing boundaries and inspiring a new generation of riders at just 22 years old. Jaxson shares insights about Rampage and discusses the real challenges that often go unseen on social media. As a new dad, he is also dedicated to juggling...

The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Alan Milway is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race throughout the year. We break down the RD 6 of the World Cups from Loudenvielle. This series is brought to you by Crankbrothers. Be sure to check out all the latest  HERE  Use discount code MOVINGTHENEEDLE for 25% off on a...

The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and SvenMartin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race throughout the year. We break down the World Championships from Andorra.  This series is brought to you by Crankbrothers. Be sure to check out all the latest  HERE Use discount code MOVINGTHENEEDLE for 25% off on a Pedal an...

Mark Rodgers, while being heavily involved in the Motocross world in recent years, has a history steeped in Mountain Bike Legends. His family was instrumental in bringing over the likes of Kovarik and Rennie, kick-starting their careers. Growing up in Big Bear, California, in its pinnacle of Downhill Racing and the US MTB scene of the late 1990s, he speaks of the drastic changes the sport has take...

Nigel Page is a true icon in the world of MTB and Downhill racing. With a storied career that includes clinching an X Games medal during the peak of downhill racing, Page has gone on to build and lead a championship-winning downhill and enduro MTB program. Discover the thrilling tale of how he signed Sam Hill to his "small" race team, leading to multiple world titles. Gain insight into the challen...

Brendan Fairclough known as BRENDOG is one of the biggest stars in MTB. The original free racer is back on the show to chat about "retirement" from World Cup racing..sort of, his new movie DEATHGRIP 2, racing alongside Sam Hill, and what the future may hold.  Episode Sponsors: AG1 AG1 is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first p...

The takeover episode is where I turn the tables on the boys from THE RIDE COMPANION and interview Olly Wilkins and Davi Birks in their studio. Davi was the man who pushed me to start my podcast! We dive into their history in the sport, and why they joined forces and started their podcast. We had a great chat about MTB, podcasting, work ethic, determination, living the life you want, and the usual...

The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Wyn Masters is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race throughout the year. We break down the Rd 5 in Les Gets, France This series is brought to you by Crankbrothers. Be sure to check out all the latest  HERE  Other Episode Sponsors: AG1 AG1 is going to give you a FREE 1-year...

Harriet Burbidge-Smith , is a leading figure in women's freeride mountain biking. Harriet, known as Haz, has made waves with her fearless riding and dedication to pushing the sport's boundaries. We'll explore her journey from riding in Australia to becoming a global freeride sensation, overcoming challenges in a male-dominated field, and inspiring the next generation of riders. Harriet shares her...

The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Wyn Masters and Eric Carter are my co-hosts for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race throughout the year. We break down the Rd 4 in Val Di Sole, Italy. This series is brought to you by Crankbrothers. Be sure to check out all the latest  HERE  Other Episode Sponsors: AG1 AG1 is going to gi...

The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Sven Martin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race throughout the year. We break down the Rd 3 in Leogang. This series is brought to you by Crankbrothers. Be sure to check out all the latest  HERE  Other Episode Sponsors: AG1 AG1 is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply o...

J ackson Goldstone was destined for greatness in MTB, and what a dream first year in Elite Downhill MTB he had. Hailing from Squamish, BC, Jackson signed his first autograph at 6 years old and hasn't looked back since. He is currently sidelined after a crash at Hardline. Join us as we delve into his decision to pursue downhill over freeride, his epic first two WC wins, injuries, his experience as...

The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Alan Milway  is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race throughout the year. We break down the Rd 2 in Poland. This series is brought to you by Crankbrothers. Be sure to check out all the latest  HERE  Other Episode Sponsors: AG1 AG1 is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply o...

The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and HERE  Other Episode Sponsors: AG1 AG1 is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase. All you have to do is visit  drinkAG1.com/movingtheneedle MANSCAPED If you head over to  MANSCAPED.com  and use code " movingtheneedle" you'll get an exclusive 20% off and free shipping on you...

2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and HERE  Other Episode Sponsors: AG1 AG1 is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase. All you have to do is visit  drinkAG1.com/movingtheneedle MANSCAPED If you head over to  MANSCAPED.com  and use code " movingtheneedle" you'll get an exclusive 20% off and free shipping on your or...

Chris Seager , better known as Seags to the MTB industry has grown up as a humble filmer to now regarded as one of the top filmers of this new generation. Teaming up with Brendan Fairclough and Clay Porter to bring you Deathgrip 1 which featured on Netflix,  they are now about to release the sequel Deathgrip 2. Learn all about filmmaking, getting it on Netflix, and the inside scoop into the MTB st...

Anka Martin has had an incredible and unique career in Mountain Biking. Anka started MTB in her twenties and then turned Pro competing in Downhill on the world stage. She transitioned to Enduro MTB in the early years notching up podiums and some incredible finishes in multiple stage races.  She did not stop there, completing multiple Cape Epic races and riding the full length of New Zealand, self-...

Dakotah Norton had a late start to his Downhill career but that is not holding him back. Humble beginnings to World Cup Podiums and Multiple US National Titles. This conversation does not disappoint and covers the role the mental side plays in the sport among many topics. Norton has earned his spot in the sport. Uncover the secrets behind his rapid rise in the mountain biking scene, as we explore...