Pod intro

Imagine living with conditions that mean the thing that you love to do that brings you peace, sanity and good mental health is also the thing that will then knock you off your feet.

Today I talk with Katie Love about living with EDS and TOS and despite this, having the fortitude to send it on her mountain bike and do what she can, when she can. We chat about the layers of thought that go into daily decisions and activity and the constant balancing act she is navigating in regards to her energy, body and mind.

Katie shares how mountain biking allows her to blend in with the crowd, she is not ill Katie when she is on her bike, she is just Katie.  It almost provides a shield from pity and self consciousness, something I am certain we can all relate to in some shape or form. 

Katie is a bloody trooper and this episode will inspire the socks off you.

The Guest: 

I am using cycling as my escape and therapy due to having multiple conditions that effects me physically and mentally and aim to inspire those like me to get out and ride when you can.

Follow Katie : @the_exhausted_cyclist on Instagram , @KaTiE_lOvE_ on Twitter

You can check out Katie's blogs here: Katie's Website

Take away's from the episode:

• The fortitude of humans is incredible. When you are healthy you are free.

• Bikes allow you to blend in with the crowd, they allow you to just be you, you are not what holds you back when you are on a bike, you are free. This offers the best escapism from reality which is often needed when you are dealing with everything life throws at you.

• The thought processes around juggling your energy are exhausting, it is not only the 'obvious' that affects people with health conditions, the mind game is by far the biggest battle and so draining.

Useful Links:

You can read a blog about Katie where she talks about life for Rider Resilience Katie Love - A Love Story — Rider Resilience

To find out more about Ehlers danlos syndrome (EDS) check out: What is EDS? - The Ehlers Danlos Society

To find out more about thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) check out:  Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment

To find out more about dysautonomia check out: Dysautonomia International:

If you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  

MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/  

Trail birds, a midlands based group with members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/.  

Cycle sistas are based in Essex https://www.instagram.com/the_cycle_sistas/?hl=en

Girls Alive are a community aimed at getting women outdoors and hold regular mtb rides in Surrey- https://www.facebook.com/girlsaliveuk/?locale=en_GB

Get following GOW podcast at https://www.instagram.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ or https://www.facebook.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ and Shawnee https://www.instagram.com/_shredlikeagirl/   for news on group rides and social events.  

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://www.girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  

If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/girls-on-wheels-4953647 and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app too so you don’t miss the next episode.

Huge thanks to the pods number one supporter Shawnee at Shred Like a Girl.  Go check out her awesome womens mtb clothing and join the community https://shredgirl.com/ 

Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pod intro

Bikes don't just give you all the feels when you are riding them, the whole world you enter into when you get hooked is just as beneficial.  

Hear a prime example of this from Emma, the guest in today’s pod. 

Em has been crowned the ultimate hype queen by the MTB community, boosting everyone’s confidence and passing on her infectious energy and love for the sport to everyone she rides with.  

Em shares with us how bikes have helped her overcome her obstacles in managing a stammer and constantly push her out of her comfort zone and thrive.

The Guest: 

Paramedic by trade but in my spare time I’m Trek Bath ‘s Ambassador and Women’s Advocate, trying to encourage and support more people to get into mountain biking and cycling! I just love bikes , hanging out and meeting cool people and bringing those top vibes!

Follow Em and keep informed about upcoming social rides:@emmapursall on Instagram , Em (Emma)'s Facebook group

Take away's from the episode:

• Bikes give you this whole world both on and off the saddle to push you in so many ways, they open up opportunities to do things you wouldn’t ordinarily do.  

• Secondary bike hype is REAL and just the best. Nothing better than someone cheer leading you from the side of a trail to make you clear that feature.

• We love bikes.

Useful Links:

If you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  

MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook http://bit.ly/3mLKkV4

Trail Birds, a Midlands based group with members all over http://bit.ly/3JGIpdr 

Cycle Sistas are based in Essex https://bit.ly/3TidzLn

Girls Alive are a community aimed at getting women outdoors and hold regular MTB rides in Surrey- http://bit.ly/3Tq4Eb2

Dame Cycling Forest of Dean are a womens MTB group who hold regular weekly rides for all abilities around beautiful FOD.  http://bit.ly/3TmuNYi

Get following GOW podcast at https://www.instagram.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ or https://www.facebook.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ and Shawnee https://www.instagram.com/_shredlikeagirl/   for news on group rides and social events.  

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://www.girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  

If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/girls-on-wheels-4953647 and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app too so you don’t miss the next episode.

Huge thanks to the pods number one supporter Shawnee at Shred Like a Girl.  Go check out her awesome womens mtb clothing and join the community https://shredgirl.com/ 

Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I have the pleasure of chatting with Liv Taylor, a 12 year old superstar who is setting her sights on World class titles in Downhill Mountain Biking and is on track to get there.

She is fearless, dedicated, determined and humble, and has recently been chosen for Madison Saracen's Youth Development Team, an amazing opportunity where they nurture and develop the talents of younger riders in a bid to create World class athletes.

Not only that, Liv has the support of mountain biking royalty such as Tahnee Seagrave, Rachel Atherton, Veron Sandler and Becci Skelton who have undoubtedly inspired her to be the best after seeing that raw talent come from the little ripper shredding the likes of Revolution Bike Park!

It has not been easy though. British Cycling's race structure meant Liv had to 'wait around' in effect because despite her talent, she was not old enough to race in the races or categories that matched her talent. Here from James, Liv's Dad about this and what they had to do to get Liv to be able to race.

I want to be like Liv when I grow up.

The Guest: 

Liv got on a bike at Cannock Chase when she was 8 years old, it was clear she had a natural talent and overcame every feature in no time. An impromptu visit to an uplift venue in Wales gave Liv the downhill bug and she has never looked back.

Entering her first races at 417 bike park wetted her appetite for competition and she has gone from strength to strength and is now on track for world class podiums.

You can follow and support Liv and see all the crazy things she rides over on instagram: @Livshreds on Instagram

Take away's from the episode:

• It has not been an easy time for Liv to get the permission to race to match her talent. British Cycling do not appear to make it easy for young talent in Downhill Biking to excel and progress, Liv was left 'waiting' around, unable to race because of her age. What are we missing out on as a country by having this structure in racing?

• "If you're good enough, you are old enough", is the approach every other country seems to adopt in terms of allowing talented youngsters to race.

• The support system around you when you compete in this sport is so key to nurturing talent. Role models are vital for younger riders to provide support, inspiration and bring on progression.

• We love bikes.

Useful Links:

For info on the British Downhill series 2023 check out http://bit.ly/425j8km

To follow Liv’s success and race results you can check out Roots and Rain http://bit.ly/3lcXJVN

To read more about the Madison Saracen Development Team check out; http://bit.ly/3FrlDnn

If you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  

MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook http://bit.ly/3mLKkV4

Trail Birds, a Midlands based group with members all over http://bit.ly/3JGIpdr 

Cycle Sistas are based in Essex https://bit.ly/3TidzLn

Girls Alive are a community aimed at getting women outdoors and hold regular MTB rides in Surrey- http://bit.ly/3Tq4Eb2

Dame Cycling Forest of Dean are a women's MTB group who hold regular weekly rides for all abilities around beautiful FOD.  http://bit.ly/3TmuNYi

Get following GOW podcast at https://www.instagram.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ or https://www.facebook.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ and Shawnee https://www.instagram.com/_shredlikeagirl/   for news on group rides and social events.  

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://www.girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  

If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/girls-on-wheels-4953647 and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app too so you don’t miss the next episode.

Huge thanks to the pods number one supporter Shawnee at Shred Like a Girl.  Go check out her awesome women's MTB clothing and join the community: https://shredgirl.com/ 

Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s podcast is a very special episode with the most beautiful, courageous, heavenly human Janine.   

Janine trusted me to listen to her experiences about being a black woman and what life is like for her and the everyday racism she experiences and the impact this has on her. We also speak about the barriers that exist for black people and other persons of colour to join a sport they are not represented in. 

Janine and I were chatting after a recent bike event we both went to where she admitted that despite being surrounded by women, she walked away with a sense of feeling alone as she was the only black woman there and asked herself why?

We hope that by having these conversations, regardless of how difficult people may find them, will create a catalyst for change and encourage people to begin to take the small steps that will make a huge difference.  

If there is anyone who would also like to share their experiences about being a person of colour in mountain biking please get in touch.  Janine and I plan to continue these episodes and would love to get different perspectives. Please get in touch with either of us via DM's.

The Guest: 

Having always had a deep love of bikes which stemmed from BMX and now MTB, Janine lives in North Devon with her husband, two daughters, a dog and a cat. 

She jumped back into her passion of riding bikes wholeheartedly in the summer of 2021 and has been frequenting bike parks and trail centres as much as possible since then. She is happy to attack all kinds of trails but her heart lies with air time on flow and jump lines. With wishing she had more confidence when younger to do more within the BMX scene that she grew up immersed in, she has found now that fear has left the building and demonstrates a serious ‘it’s now or never’ attitude to her riding.   

In being one of the few ‘socially visible’ women of colour riding MTB it is her aim to inspire and show members of minority groups what could be possible and is actively looking for ways to make trail and park riding more accessible to these communities. She is taking part in the Girls On Wheels podcasts to help raise awareness and open the conversation up further to the barriers people of colour and women face in entering the sport. 

She is on the committee of a brand new bike park currently being built in North Devon and is enjoying spending time with the team in going through all the necessary motions of making it happen from taking on the licence with others for the use of private woodland for the park to council engagement, planning, membership recruitment, secretarial duties and trail building. 

Janine believes that the best results in any pursuit are achieved when they are truly driven by the heart and soul and this is the exact place that she lives from with all things MTB related. 

Follow Janine : Janine 's Facebook page , @janine_ngaio on Instagram

Take away's from the episode:

• Be Anti-Racist. Be an ally. Support those who are doing amazing work in this area. Diversify what you consume.

• Action over inaction.  Take the time to educate yourself on this subject. There is a link to an account with a highlight reel called BLM containing accounts to follow on social media below; they provide information, education and further reading on being Anti-Racist, white privilege, racism. 

• Don’t assume the reaction of a victim of racism is a true representation of how they feel. Be an ally to that person and step forward and challenge those involved.  

• You can not be what you can not see. 

• Equality is the first step. Equity goes further and is what is needed.

Useful Links:

Article on Equity and Equality - https://www.internationalwomensday.com/EquityEquality

https://www.instagram.com/iamlaurenmahon/ - Click on her highlight 'BLM' for so many good resources and accounts to follow.  This was where I started so I am sharing it. Check out the guide to white privilege on the highlight too.

Other accounts to look up on instagram : Rachel Cargle, Gina Martin, Stand for humanity.

About Race Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/about-race-with-reni-eddo-lodge/id1353151856?fbclid=PAAaae9BDyOaLPBfva4NGN7MRhOw6gX4U4z4mpZJZiYYzf5WwQXluxWZ0IH6c

Recommended books:

Why I am no longer talking to white people about race: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Longer-Talking-White-People-About/dp/1408870584

The Mixed Race Experience by Naomi and Natalie Evans: https://amzn.eu/d/cxvOjNX This is a wonderful book from a mixed race British viewpoint.

------------------------

If you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  

MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/  

Trail birds, a midlands based group with members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/.  

Cycle sistas are based in Essex https://www.instagram.com/the_cycle_sistas/?hl=en

Girls Alive are a community aimed at getting women outdoors and hold regular mtb rides in Surrey- https://www.facebook.com/girlsaliveuk/?locale=en_GB

Get following GOW podcast at https://www.instagram.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ or https://www.facebook.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ and Shawnee https://www.instagram.com/_shredlikeagirl/   for news on group rides and social events.  

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://www.girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  

If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/girls-on-wheels-4953647 and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app too so you don’t miss the next episode.

Huge thanks to the pods number one supporter Shawnee at Shred Like a Girl.  Go check out her awesome womens mtb clothing and join the community https://shredgirl.com/ 

Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pod intro

Today I talk with Rich from Western Bike Events, a new MTB enduro series set in South Wales for 2023.  

We talk about how he set up this series and get an insight into the amount of work that goes into it.  

Rich wants to get more women to sign up to his enduro and we have an open chat about the barriers women can experience when thinking about entering races and all the awesome things Rich is doing to combat them.

We also discuss the complete lack of representation from people of colour in the sport.  This is a conversation I will be having in a lot more depth in future episodes, led by the wonderful Janine. 

We get Rich’s perspective on the constraints a race organiser experiences in implementing the solutions we think would be really easy and he removes a lot of blind spots. 

It is a longer episode than usual however it is bursting with value so well worth a listen.

If you are a race or event organiser, have a female in your life who rides bikes, or work for a MTB brand and want to reach more people of colour and female riders with your marketing then this episode is for you.  I learnt so much from it.  

Check out the written Q&A and the end of the show notes. Rich gave in depth answers to the audience questions that were submitted on social media. Absolute GOLD.

The Guest: 

Richard is a mountain bike enduro event organiser who’s responsible for Western Bike Events Ltd, a company which he owns equally with his wife, Sara. For his first year he’s focussed on delivering an enduro series across South Wales, the Valleys Enduro Series. The VES is a mixed series where the women’s categories are the same as the mens categories equally. He plans to grow the series and diversify his events.Originally from Cumbria where his love of mountains and interest in the outdoors was sparked from an early age. He’s owned a mountain bike in one form or another for most of his life; however, it wasn't until 2006 that the mtb bug finally bit hard. He’s married to Sara and has two children.

You can follow him: Richard 's Facebook group , Richard 's Facebook page , @Western-bike-events on Instagram.

Take away's from the episode:

• “You can not be what you can not see”.   There are barely any ‘everyday’ female rider photographs to use in promo for racing and even less representing people of colour. Rich is open to chats with anyone who would like to provide some decent action bike photos from these underrepresented groups.

• Although we think the solutions to the barriers we discuss are straightforward, there is more to it when making things a reality;  practical, logistical and financial constraints all play a part.  It is always worth considering this.

• Rich spoke about barely seeing any women come forward for dig days.  He would love to see this change.

• We love bikes.

Useful Links:

Check out Rich’s race series https://www.western-bike-events.wales/

If you fancy joining in some races to get connected and try something new you can check out British Cycling events page for upcoming mountain bike races https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/events?zuv_bc_discipline_filter_id=7 and also check out Si entries https://www.sientries.co.uk/

If you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  

MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/  

Trail birds, a midlands based group with members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/.  

Cycle sistas are based in Essex https://www.instagram.com/the_cycle_sistas/?hl=en

Girls Alive are a community aimed at getting women outdoors and hold regular mtb rides in Surrey- https://www.facebook.com/girlsaliveuk/?locale=en_GB

Get following GOW podcast at https://www.instagram.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ or https://www.facebook.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ and Shawnee https://www.instagram.com/_shredlikeagirl/   for news on group rides and social events.  

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://www.girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  

If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/girls-on-wheels-4953647 and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app too so you don’t miss the next episode.

Huge thanks to the pods number one supporter Shawnee at Shred Like a Girl.  Go check out her awesome women's MTB clothing and join the community https://shredgirl.com/ 

Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa.

Q&A answered by Rich

LAND / STARTING IT UP

How did you get the private land to hold races on?

I had no network or contacts to start with. This resulted in loads of mind mapping and brainstorming. Regularly trying out search terms on google and following up leads. Weighing up pros and cons  using a weighted scoring matrix: is it accessible? Easy to get to? NRW land or no? Council land or no? Price?. We then arranged these into a priority list and followed up. 

What happens to the trails once the series is over?  Are they permanent trails or only for the Enduro?

Some trails cannot be used outside of an event. Walters Arena is a dangerous place where high speed rally car testing happens through the week and regular off road events happen on the weekend, this would need booking to arrange. On the other hand, the farmer at Taff Buggy is open minded and will allow access if people get in touch with him first.

The two races at Afan are trail centre only, you can ride these at any time of the year, just check with NRW if there are any diversions.

What was the biggest challenge getting started when you had the land? 

Remaining disciplined to keep building. I’ve spent every weekend and some weeks trail building long after my motivation had gone. So, keeping the vision and staying disciplined in keeping on track with the build.

How did you manage the difficult stage of paying for planning vs getting funding, (classic chicken and egg scenario) you often can’t do one without the other, how did you overcome this?

Walking a delicate line of funding. This year we have had no financial sponsorship. We’re always watching entries vs purchases vs operating costs. Don’t underestimate how much it costs to travel!

What made you want to start it?

I just want to get more people racing and enjoying the thrill of being between the tape. Racing is good because it makes us train, we form social groups and can be a great mental health release. Plus, I want to offer kids racing for free in the future and offer ambassador opportunities.

What is your favourite thing / worst thing about running it? 

Hearing how stoked people are to ride / honestly, I am scared that people are going to turn their noses up and not race anymore.

What tips would you give others that are thinking of starting their own MTB race series?

Get in touch with a British Enduro Mountain Bike Association (BEMBA) affiliated organiser (like me). Shadow the organiser at a couple of events, learn how much admin and planning in the background is needed. Understand how to write a risk assessment and what forms your operating envelope. Understand your duty of care.

The racing / business

How are you planning to run it?  As a club, CIC, anything else? 

We’re set up as a registered company in England and Wales. Company registration number 14399528.

Accessibility 

What are your plans for truly making it accessible to all?  What do you think that entails and how will that actually benefit all?

I think it comes down to Equality and Diversity, the law.

Equality means we make reasonable adjustments to include people with protected characteristics. Inherently, cycling is a middle class white passtime and this needs to change. I am aware we need more people of colour in our promo but hard to find photo’s on roots and rain. I’m open to working with people of colour so please get in touch. 

You cannot be what you cannot see! I see diversity as using promo material and inclusive language to make women feel more included. Plus, I think this falls on the previous point about people of colour in cycling, we need more basically. How do we do that? Admittedly it is easy to find a willing white volunteer willing to dig; I now understand it’s going to need me and Sara reaching out to a more diverse audience.

For example, we’ve made reasonable adjustments with equal categories to women and men. Which means a woman in her 60’s can compete against other women in a similar age bracket. Same goes for prizes, if I get a category sponsor I tell them we’re doing things equally so the same prizes for men and women. Although money is not a protected characteristic, we’ve also run an extensive early bird offer for the last 6 months with some really cheap entry rates, to allow people from low income backgrounds the opportunity to take part.

For disabled racing we need to sit down with disabled athletes and get them in to test our tracks. If it works then hell yeh, lets get more disabled folk in. 

What is your intention with social media and marketing?  Are you conscious of who is going in your promo material?  Women, ages, People of colour? 

We try to keep it 50/50 however trying to find pictures of your everyday woman on a mtb at a race is tricky. We’re hopeful this will change after round 1 where we have 37 women signed up. Going through previous photos on roots and rain, kinda reflects the low participation in past history, which is a shame. Not just for women by the way but also people of colour.

What are you doing to encourage more women to enter? Have you considered how you will get more people of colour to enter?

This podcast! We’re using open and inclusive language for example; not referring to a vest or sleeveless top as wife beater. We hold back entries for women, so if we do sell out we can offer entries. Women only portaloo. A stretch goal is to offer free racing for children in the future.

People of colour, we need more of you racing so I can use your wonderful photos in my promo. If you want to help promote then get in touch

What is the female to male ratio in race entries so far?

Really low, R1 10% R2 2% R3 1% the rest according to the stats have no women signed up

Do you have appropriate age categories for females U18, or are they going in one big group? As this is unfair on younger riders and puts off girls from entering.

We’ve split this one up, there's no way a 11 yo girl is the same biologically as a 17yo, right? 

Will there be female only toilets? 

Going by the ratios we will have 1 specifically for women accessible with a combination lock. We also have a disabled and baby changer porta loo.

What steps are you taking to be inclusive to all women, younger riders, people of colour, what makes you different in comparison to other race organisers?

Equal cats, sensitive to language, female only toilet on event hq, roughly 50/50 split of women in promo, tried to get events close to places where perhaps the non riding partner can visit.

Could we do better, always, are we thinking about doing more? Absolutely.

Counter intuitive but there are other well established organisers doing a lot more for women. Southern Enduro and PMBA both do a great job. Also tweedlove are making changes.

Would you be willing to have a feedback form after events asking what went well, what didn’t go well together views and be proactive?  This has never happened before and people usually get told to email in.  

100% feedback is a gift.

Have you considered having an inclusivity policy and a women's rep, people of colour rep to share the views? 

There’s two directors in Western Bike Events, Sara my wife is in the background doing all the heavy lifting with logistics. So, we both bounce ideas off of each other and discuss what is reasonable and what's unreasonable.

We both come from the Army Sara had 15 years experience as a Combat Medical Technician and I’m an engineering manager. We’re both in tune with D&I however, let's hear from other viewpoints, let's make sure we’re not forming biases.

THE EVENT

How can people get involved and volunteer?

Email on us info@western-bike-events.wales or check out our website.

Where is south wales is it?

We have 6 events across South Wales, for a quick reference we have a map at the bottom of our website homepage.

Can you offer suggestions of campsites and accommodation for those travelling from afar?  

We have free camping at all of our events. Because things like air bnb and pitch up are so good, we will leave that to participants to search for their requirements.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today Murray and myself laugh our way through our cancer chaos and share insights into what life is like during and after a diagnosis.  I think we mention mountain biking at some point.

It goes deep but it is light hearted, a mini delve into the world of the Big C.

Towards the end we talk about Murray's perspective on girls in mountain biking and he will reassure you, most guys are stoked to see females on the trails and want to do what they can to make us feel at ease. 

The Guest: 

Grew up in Dunstable and started to ride more seriously once I’d left school for a few years. Did some nationals races with my friend and sucked. Did kickboxing and played drums in a band for ages.In 2013 I started riding again but then had an emergency op to remove a brain tumour. Successful op but had to take steroids (put on tonnes of weight) then travel every day to Addenbrookes hospital for 6 weeks. Also had 6 months of optional chemo and then couldn’t drive for two years after the end of my treatment. Took a while to get myself back in order but have been riding and racing since getting myself back to a decent bit of health. Up and down since but making it work!

You can follow Murray and give him a shout if you want a tour guide at Woburn or Twisted Oaks. Murray's Facebook page @murrayrawson85 on Instagram

Take away's from the episode:

• Steroids make you STARVING

• Groups of guys may look intimidating when you arrive at a trail but the majority of them are good guys who will do what they can to help you out and make you feel at ease. 

• We love bikes.

Useful Links:

• If you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  

MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/  

Trail birds, a midlands based group with members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/.  

Cycle sistas are based in Essex https://www.instagram.com/the_cycle_sistas/?hl=en

Girls Alive are a community aimed at getting women outdoors and hold regular mtb rides in Surrey- https://www.facebook.com/girlsaliveuk/?locale=en_GB

Get following GOW podcast https://www.instagram.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ or on facebook https://www.facebook.com/girlsonwheelspodcast and Shawnee https://www.instagram.com/_shredlikeagirl/  for news on group rides social events.  

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  

If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode.

Huge thanks to the pods number one supporter Shawnee at Shred Like a Girl.  Go check out her awesome womens mtb clothing and join the community https://shredgirl.com/ 

Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I chat with Suzy Lacey about her awesome bike adventures and achievements over the last 18 years. Suzy has raced downhill world cups, 4x champs, Crankworx and hits humongous jumps to name a few.  She has watched the mountain bike scene change over the years and seen more and more progression in female riders entering the sport.    

Suzy shares advice on how to progress your riding, lets us in on the secret to her jumping success, reveals what still scares her on her bike and talks about how bikes are such a huge part of her life, she isn’t sure where she would be without them.

Her passion and love of bikes shines through and she will get you reaching for that hardtail and heading to your nearest pump track quicker than you can say cased it. 

The Guest: 

I have been riding bikes since I was 12 so around 18 years. I have raced multiple disciplines from 4-cross racing, BMX, downhill racing and now do the odd enduro race for fun and for the social side of it. After racing 10 years or so I realised i wasn’t enjoying biking anymore as the serious side and pressure took the joy away. It took me sometime to find out why I picked up a bike as a little girl before I raced. After reflecting i realised that biking saved my life, helped me get through so many bad times and was a release for me as a kid and is still now. I’m a supported rider for whyte bikes, feel super grateful to have their support and now I ride bikes to have fun for my mental health, to socialise, I love jumping big jumps, helping my friends and fellow riders conquer their jumping goals. I love to inspire both men and women, both young and old at all levels to pick up their bike, go out the woods and have fun! I try to portray this by using my social media.

You can watch Suzy in awe on YouTube and follow on insta: Suzanne (aka suzy) on YouTube @Suzanne_Lacey on Instagram

Take away's from the episode:

• Practice, consistency and patience are what you need to master jumping your bike.  Zero fear and a MASSIVE pair of big girl pants would also not go amiss. 

• No matter how good you are on a bike, there is always something that scares you and always something you can learn.  We are all human after all.

• Knowing when to walk around a feature is just as important as pushing yourself to try it.  Listen to yourself, don’t risk it for a biscuit if you are not feeling it. 

• We love bikes.

Useful Links:

• If you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  

MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/  

Trail birds, a midlands based group with members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/.  

Cycle sistas are based in Essex https://www.instagram.com/the_cycle_sistas/?hl=en

Girls Alive are a community aimed at getting women outdoors and hold regular mtb rides in Surrey- https://www.facebook.com/girlsaliveuk/?locale=en_GB

Get following GOW podcast https://www.instagram.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ or on facebook https://www.facebook.com/girlsonwheelspodcast

and Shawnee https://www.instagram.com/_shredlikeagirl/  for news on group rides social events.  

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  

If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode.

Huge thanks to the pods number one supporter Shawnee at Shred Like a Girl.  Go check out her awesome womens mtb clothing and join the community https://shredgirl.com/ 

Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I am joined my Lib a pink obsessed mountain bike chick who got into the sport 2 years ago and is documenting her mtb progress on instagram, showcasing the highs and lows of progressing her riding.  

We chat about what it was like for Lib to build up a network of riding buddies after her relationship ended and how signing up to grass roots downhill races was pivotal in building her confidence, meeting friends and feeling accomplished.  Lib isn’t in it for the podiums and we talk about the benefits of racing just for yourself.

If you are reading this and are new to the sport, or want to give racing a go, this podcast is for you.  

The Guest: 

I started mountain biking around 2 years ago, I didn't love it at first but as soon as I got a sniff of downhill I was hooked. You will find me in some sort of pink with my little pony hair swishing around.

You can follow Libs riding here @lib_mtb on Instagram

Take away's from the episode:

• Entering a race series or individual races gives you a sense of purpose, a ready made group of supportive women and that warm fuzzy feeling of accomplishment.

• You don’t have to be in it to win it with racing.  Have a go, see what happens.

• We love bikes.

Useful Links:

• If you fancy joining in some races to get connected and try something new check out a few of the options below (you can find them all on British Cycling too and search within your area): 

• Miji downhill https://www.facebook.com/mij.downhill/ 

• Mini downhill http://www.minidownhill.com/ 

• b1ke series https://www.b1ke.com/racing/

• Stile Cop in Cannock also hold DH races through the Racers Guild and you can find them on facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/49035601311/?locale=en_GB

Check out the podcast with Tess Cakebread Brown about racing.  There are links to other races in the show notes for the episode.

Check out British Cycling events page for upcoming mountain bike races https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/events?zuv_bc_discipline_filter_id=7

and Si entries https://www.sientries.co.uk/ 

If you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  

MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/  

Trail birds, a midlands based group with members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/.  

Cycle sistas are based in Essex https://www.instagram.com/the_cycle_sistas/?hl=en

Girls Alive are a community aimed at getting women outdoors and hold regular mtb rides in Surrey- https://www.facebook.com/girlsaliveuk/?locale=en_GB

Get following GOW podcast https://www.instagram.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ or on facebook https://www.facebook.com/girlsonwheelspodcast

and Shawnee https://www.instagram.com/_shredlikeagirl/  for news on group rides social events.  

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  

If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode.

Huge thanks to the pods number one supporter Shawnee at Shred Like a Girl.  Go check out her awesome womens mtb clothing and join the community https://shredgirl.com/ 

Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is it really like to be a female in this mountain bike world?  Find out Zoe's perspective, a working mum who loves her bike, has a young daughter who races mtb and is part of a female charity empowering more women to get outdoors.   Zoe gives a broad view of her experiences and shares her knowledge and passion around closing the gender gap in our beloved sport.

Today I have a great chat with Zoe Woodman about a whole array of things that come up as a female in the mountain biking world.  Zoe gives her insightful perspective as an “everyday” mountain biker and mum of a young daughter who races mtb. 

There is so much gold in this podcast for brands, event and race organisers, British Cycling and guys out there who want to understand a female perspective of our shared passion and take some action to create change.   We chat about Project Evolve and other events that are doing great things to get more women into the sport including the charity Zoe volunteers for; Girls Alive.  A womens biking club based in Surrey. 

The Guest: 

Zoe is a keen mountain biker and so is her family. Luckily they all love bikes. Mai, Zoe's daughter is pretty damn good on a bike and is entering races. Zoe is also a big part of Girls Alive, an active female group empowering women to get outdoors and change their life.

You can follow Zoe and her families mountain bike life on Insta or youtube.

@Woodmanmtb on Instagram Zoe on YouTube

Take away's from the episode:

• There is a chaperone policy for under 16 year olds at races where an adult can accompany them on the tracks and follow them down.  Perfect for enduros where younger riders take part or any race where the rider is worried. 

• There are a million small changes and positive action and intention that can be followed to create a shift and change in the gender differences in the mountain bike world.  This will take time but it requires everyone to take action.    

• You have to follow Aneela McKenna. Aneela is chair of British Cycling diversity and inclusivity advisory group and is doing amazing things in the mtb world. https://www.instagram.com/mrsgowherescotland/

• We love bikes.

Useful Links:

• You can check out Girls Alive on facebook - https://www.facebook.com/girlsaliveuk/?locale=en_GB

• If you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/ and Trail birds, a midlands based group with members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/ and get following GOW podcast @girlsonwheelspodcast and Shawnee @_shredlikeagirl for news on social events.  

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  

If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode.

Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it feel like to be a junior girl in the British Downhill racing scene with your eyes set on racing in the World Champs? How do you even get to the position to consider entering  World Cup races as a privateer? And what is the secret to overcoming fear? 

The awesome, inspiring Molly Ruskin shares how the British mountain bike racing scene works and what it takes to ride in these world class races.  Molly is wise beyond her years and shares how she overcomes things that scare her and how to navigate the crazy world of social media. 

I learnt so much from Molly and gained an understanding of what it means for these riders who race at a high level and the achievement of it.  Her ambition and attitude is inspiring and she is an amazing role model for the sport.  

If you have a young daughter / family member who loves her mountain bike and wants to get into racing then you will love this episode.  Molly shares some great advice to young people wanting to get into racing and recommendations of where to start to test your ability. 

She fits so much into her life, with college studies, bike coaching for younger kids, gym training, a social life and then riding bikes and racing, she says she couldn’t do it without the support of her number one fan, her Dad, who also inspired her to get on a mountain bike. 

The Guest:

Been riding mtb for a while and I’m a racer!

You can follow along with Molly at@mollyruskin_ on Instagram

Take away's from the episode:

• Riding bikes at this level requires dedication and commitment and when the riders are younger, a huge support team to give them the opportunities to race.  Hats off to the family members supporting these riders.   Huge hat’s off to privateers too.

• The downhill racing scene for girls sounds like a very supportive group.  If you are brave enough and have real bike skills (that’s me out), you will be welcomed and supported. 

• Molly is a wonderful role model for young people in mountain biking.

• We love bikes.

Useful Links:

• Molly recommended the Pearce Cycles races are a good place to establish if you are at the level to enter the National series.   https://www.pearcecycles.co.uk/races/ 

• If you are inspired to race, whatever your age,  but are new to the idea and are not at this level check out the trailbirds team on facebook https://www.facebook.com/trailbirds.team/ they are building a network of racers and share information on local grass roots races.

• You can also check out your local mountain bike group on facebook and ask for advice. MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/ 

• Check out Si-entries for a list of all upcoming races and events https://www.sientries.co.uk/ 

• If you just want to ride your bike and not race and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  MTB Chix and Trails above and Trail birds, a midlands based group but have members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/ .

• Follow GOW podcast @girlsonwheelspodcast and Shawnee @_shredlikeagirl for news on social events and group rides.  

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  

If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode.

Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaaa.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Superhuman episode: The power of two wheels.  How mountain biking allows Bex to feel amazing, despite living with MS.

Today I chat with Becky Coombes about MS, multiple sclerosis;  from diagnosis to a first date and then falling in love (with mountain biking first, obvs).  Becky shares about how mountain biking now plays a pivotal role in managing her symptoms, getting through rough periods and keeping her mental health in check.

Becky shares her story which will resonate with a lot of people facing or living with an illness or disease.  We laugh a lot and I talk about some of my experience with cancer as there are a lot of parallels.  Becky’s attitude is sure to inspire.  

Get stuck into the pod to hear the full convo, it was such a good episode to do and I admire Bex for coming forward and offering to share this very personal story. 

If you feel inspired after listening, please share the love over on the instagram or facebook post.  We would love to hear from you. https://www.instagram.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/

The Guest: 

Becky lives next to the Peak District with her boyfriend Shaun. At weekends she can be found pedalling up the rolling hills giving everyone a run for their money. She loves mountain biking and the challenge it gives her. When she can't get out on her bike, she will feed her obsession by looking for bike bits online.

Becky now wants to share her experience with MS in hope to inspire others. You can follow her on instagram @bex_c_mtb on Instagram

Take away's from the episode:

• MS is typically diagnosed in younger people and affects people in different ways.  Treatment is offered to manage the disease.

• Hobbies really do offer an escape and focus when you are facing adversity.  They allow a huge sense of accomplishment and remind you just how incredible your body is.  Mountain biking is obviously the best hobby. Obvs.  

• We love bikes.

Useful Links:

You can learn more about MS here https://www.mssociety.org.uk/

If you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  

MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/ and Trail birds, a midlands based group but have members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/ and get following GOW podcast @girlsonwheelspodcast and Shawnee @_shredlikeagirl for news on social events.  

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  

If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode.

Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I chat with Jess Greenhalgh about how mountain biking became a “thing” for her and how she is going from strength to strength in a relatively short space of time.  Jess is a member of the British Army and has been chosen to represent their Enduro MTB team for 2023 and will compete in the British National Enduro Series this year.  What a boss.

We talk about her dedication to getting race fit for the 2023 season, how she stays motivated to train and her discipline around this that is ingrained in her from being in the Army.  

We also chat about how knowing and listening to your body is key in avoiding over-training and also giving yourself a break if you are on your period, because they really can affect your performance. 

Get stuck into the pod and hear the full convo, it is so interesting and I would love to hear your thoughts on this, head on over to my instagram or facebook page and leave a comment. You will find the links to these below.

The Guest: 

Started riding in 2017, sort of, when I was in basic Army officer training as a way to let off some steam. Parked the bike to pursue CrossFit and triathlon; picked it back up in 2020.

Three Morzine summers and a 2022 race season later, I’ve been selected for the Army team in 2023.

I use MTB to help my mental health and fitness, and for a good stress relief from work! 

You can follow Jess and see how she gets on with racing at @jessg_mtb on Instagram and check out the army enduro team @armyenduromtb

If you are in the army and are interested in riding bikes, get in touch with Jess, she will be happy to chat to you.

Take away's from the episode:

• Discipline, planning and consistency are a huge part of getting yourself prepared for racing or any physical event.  Jess thinks of every workout as a puzzle piece, she has to do it as it fits in with the bigger plan.  Great way to think of it and stay motivated.

• Periods can have a very real affect on how you show up on your bike. 

• Look out for the signs of over training.  Listen to your body and know it’s ok to have a break and go easy on yourself.

• We love bikes.

Links

• The best padded shorts on the planet as tested by superhuman Jess https://www.sigmasports.com/item/Assos/Dyora-RS-S9-Womens-Bib-Short/PYJ6?s=1

• If you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/ and Trail birds, a midlands based group but have members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/   and get following GOW podcast @girlsonwheelspodcast and Shawnee @_shredlikeagirl for news on social events.  Jess also welcomes messages if you want a buddy to ride with in the South. 

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  

If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode.

Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mountain biking isn’t just about riding your bike.  It is so much more than that.  It becomes part of your identity, creates a sense of belonging and gives you access to a ready made community, no matter where you are. 

This is what I chat about with Mishy, a snowboard fanatic and outdoor lover.  Mishy shares what it was like coming over to the UK from Slovakia 25 years ago and settling into a new country.    

Mishy was introduced to mountain biking when in the UK and shares how being part of the community has allowed her to feel a sense of belonging and somewhere where she “fits in”.  Something she admits can feel difficult at times for her. 

Mishy shares how bikes have been an escape for her during difficult times and continue to provide that much needed mental reset in the land of no snow and a lot of rain.  

The Guest: 

Mishy is an adventurous soul, she loves her campervan, dogs, snowboarding, mountain biking and anything in between.

Happiest when outdoors and sharing her passions she runs an adventure company and lives the dream teaching people to stay upright on snow and exploring her beautiful Slovakian homeland. You can check it out here https://mist-adventures.com/ and follow her on socials: https://www.instagram.com/mistadventures/

Take away's from the episode:

• Mountain biking gives you a ready-made community no matter where you go.  If you love the sport, you will ALWAYS find like minded riders to share the passion with, this can help you settle in to new locations and build friendships. 

• Being good at snowboarding does not necessarily mean you are good on a bike. (Mishy’s words). Lol.

• Sh*t zips are a thing.

• We love bikes.

Links

Want to go snowboarding or skiing somewhere different?  Check out Mishy’s adventure company https://mist-adventures.com/ she is a snowboard instructor and runs holidays in Slovakia.

Mountain bike groups create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  Check out MTB Chix and Trails who are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/ and Trail birds, a midlands based group but have members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/   and get following Shawnee @_shredlikeagirl and GOW podcast @girlsonwheelspodcast for news on social events.  

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  

If you liked what you heard please leave me a review on podchaser.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode.

Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How rekindling an old love of bikes formed a pivotal part of Janine's road to recovery after motherhood, bad habits and a confused sense of purpose lead to a complete physical and mental burnout.   

This is what I chat about in today's episode with the wonderful, soulful Janine, who openly shares the path that lead her back to bikes at the young age of 40 something.  The conversation flows and digresses to all sorts of wonderment but always comes back to bikes and the power held within them. 

We chat about how she became completely burnt out, motherhood stripping her of her identity, alcohol weaving its way in and then her body finally reacting and stopping her in her tracks.   A lot of soul searching and inner work later, Janine rediscovered her love of bikes, reconnected with that childlike joy we can all lose as adults and hasn’t looked back since.  

Janine’s energy and giggle is infectious and if listening to this doesn’t make you grab for your bike, I don’t know what will. 

The Guest: 

Janine is a recovering burnt-out Mum of two girls who regained her passion for life through some challenging circumstances but ending with a return to her love of bikes!

After years of conforming to the ‘norm’ and essentially losing herself into a world she didn’t feel she’d signed up for, a little too much wine, an autoimmune skin condition and a bit of soul searching later and a recipe for play and fun was created.

Her rediscovery of her love of riding reignited whilst on a holiday just over a year ago and that coupled with a strange loss of fear and judgements, she’s throwing herself at it and is loving every second.

It’s enabled her to switch off her busy brain, reconnect with the outdoors, be with like-minded friends, meet new ones, travel and keep active.

It hasn’t been an easy or straight forward road to get there but it’s certainly been interesting and demanded the deepest digging to rediscover who she was always meant to be, a complete paradox in of herself.

You can follow Janine and her biking escapades on @janine_ngaio on Instagram

Take aways from the episode:

• There is absolutely no age limit for getting on a bike and just starting. 

• Mountain biking enables you to connect with your inner child and experience that childlike delight we often lose as adults because we stop ‘playing’. Play is so important. 

• We love bikes.

Links

If you were interested in sobriety a great account to follow for insight and education is https://www.instagram.com/soberdave/ and https://www.instagram.com/sobergirlsociety/  

Another great resource about alcohol is https://alcoholchange.org.uk. 

I used the app ‘try dry’ to help me give it up.  It wasn’t hard for me as my ‘why’ was so strong.  Best decision I ever made for my mental wellbeing and am happy to chat about it with anyone, just drop me a dm. 

The healing point insta with Tracey Stevenson, getting to the emotional root of physical issues - https://www.instagram.com/thehealingpoint._/

If you are struggling with your mental health you can check out the following resources for ways you can get help:

https://www.thecalmzone.net/ 

https://www.mind.org.uk/

Reaching out for help may seem hard but it is the best thing you can do for yourself if you are struggling. 

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  

If you liked what you heard please leave me a review on podchaser.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode.

Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“But what happens if I lose mountain biking?”

This is the question this week's guest; Sarah Munton, asked herself when making the brave decision to leave a relationship and move back home to the UK from New Zealand. 

Faced with this prospect and trying to go it alone when back home, Sarah openly shares, how despite exposing herself to the fear of being seen as having no friends and lonely, she was vulnerable anyway and reached out on facebook and got responses that influenced the course of her mountain bike journey and life, for the better.   

An inspiring example of the power of bravery and vulnerability and how women's mountain bike groups prove crucial in enabling people to continue living life on 2 wheels.   Oh yeah and coming back from breaking your neck. 

The Guest: 

I got roped into mountain biking by my partner at the time, back in 2018 when I was living in New Zealand. 4 years later I'm now 28 and mountain biking is such an amazing part of my life I couldn't do without, I've made some great friends, had incredible adventures and one broken neck, but the last one I'll try not to do again 😅

You can follow Sarah's bravery and biking escapades over on instagram @munton_biker on Instagram and also check out the Seekers Cult the rad clothing brand she represents https://www.instagram.com/seekerscult/?hl=en

Take aways from the episode:

• We can sometimes feel reliant on one person for mountain biking and that can leave us in a tough predicament when considering if that relationship is something we want to continue with.  With that in mind it is far healthier to create independence around your sport (life) so it ticks along, irrespective of who may come and go. 

• Women's mountain bike groups create a space for connection, belonging and friendship. 

• Life is better when you share it with people.  Reach out, be vulnerable, no one is going to think anything bad, everyone has been there at some point.  Push yourself out of your comfort zone and be brave, it will pay off.  A great tip from Sarah is to reach out on social media first, create that connection and then arrange to meet.  Great if the idea of going to a social ride without knowing a soul makes you need a nervous poo.   

• It is possible to ride your bike again after a serious injury if you apply the right mindset

• Sarah is cool as a cucumber, both on and off the bike.

Women's mountain bike groups:

Here are some popular women's groups with a wide reach.   If you are struggling and riding on your own and feeling a bit meh about that, join your local group, take a look at the next event and go, but even better put a post out.  

Check out MTB Chix and Trails who are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/ 

Trail birds are a midlands based group but have members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/   

Dame cycling in the Forest of Dean, they are usually out every weekend: https://www.facebook.com/groups/367798690071925/

Bike Park Wales Women's Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1885204474959633

The cycle sistas https://www.facebook.com/thecyclesistas/ 

Also check out British Cycling and their breeze rides, they now do rides for mountain biking and they are a great way to join a chilled group, there will always be someone there as the ride leader will be guiding it  https://www.letsride.co.uk/breeze 

Check out the instagram post for this episode for more suggestions from the community https://www.instagram.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  

If you liked what you heard please leave me a review on the app you listen on and rate it, also jump on podchaser and leave a review on there,  it will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance and I will be eternally grateful.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode.

Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why aren’t there more women signing up for mountain bike races in the UK?  What are the common barriers we experience and what can event organisers and the industry do to encourage more women to enter?

This is what I chat about in today’s episode with Tess Cakebread-Brown . 

Tess shares her experiences with entering races and what it is like to stand on a podium when there were only 2 women in her category. 

She also shares the thoughts gathered from the mountain bike community after she posed this topic on her instagram.  There was a phenomenal response and it just shows that us girls want to race but there are several common barriers that get in the way.   

These hurdles could easily be remedied with a different approach to organising races and then promoting them… but this then leads to the question..

...What comes first? More women entering races or the efforts and changes needed to get more women to enter races? 

Get stuck into the pod and hear the full convo, it is sooo interesting and I would love to hear your thoughts on this, head on over to my instagram or facebook page and leave a comment https://www.instagram.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ .

The Guest: 

Hey there! :) I'm Tess, a MTB enduro rider based in the north east of England. I started riding quite late, at the age of 25, and have been sharing my journey primarily via Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mud_and_no_makeup/?hl=en.

I have completely fallen in love with the sport as it keeps me fit and happy, as well as allows me to visit amazing places and hang out with awesome people. My main aim is to share the buzz of the sport and encourage more people to get involved. You'll also find lots of tips and how-to videos in my feed, which I hope will help on your own mountain bike journey :)

You can also find Tess on YouTube where you can watch all her great how to videos, I certainly learn a lot from them.

Take away's from the episode:

• There is a large number of everyday female mountain bikers who want to enter races but don't feel like they can due to some common barriers:
• Advertising of events.  Where are all the girls in the event promos and other marketing material?  Why don't we make the cut? You can not be what you can not see. 
• Gaps between racers is a biggy. Leave big gaps to give us a chance to go down without the pressure of a faster rider thundering up behind us. Enduro mash up events and womens only waves are also great ideas for filling up those female categories.

• Costs and childcare and not knowing how to find where the races are.

• The barriers mentioned are easy to fix, it just requires a commitment and intention from race and event organisers and those creators who make the promotional material. 

• We love bikes.

Check out the key points in the episode below:

00:00 - Show me the love. How did Tess find mountain biking and become obsessed?  

23:50 - the biggest things that can stop women entering races.  Leave a big gap between racers.

28:30 - A solution for the gap issue.

32:00 - Pedalhounds race series and their womens waves 

33:25 - Women aren’t used in the marketing of events so therefore it will not attract women. 

37:50 - Is there an unconscious bias when it comes to making the promotional material for events? 

43:41 - Childcare and costs put women off too

48:00 - What comes first, the women joining the racing or the efforts to get them to race?

54:40 - Why does Tess choose to race?

59:30 - Quick fire questions

01:07:05 - Squid impression

Useful Links:

To check out upcoming races head on over to https://www.sientries.co.uk/

For enduro races check out http://www.pmbaenduro.co.uk/ and https://pedalhounds.co.uk/ , https://tweedlove.com/ , https://ardrock.co.uk/ .  The Malverns festival is a great place to do your first enduro or downhill race https://malvernsclassic.com/ .  

For downhill races check out http://minidownhill.com/ , https://www.instagram.com/mijdownhill/?hl=en and https://www.instagram.com/gravityeventsuk/ For races at Cannock chase join the racers guild facebook page https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/49035601311/

Check out the forest of dean insta account as they usually tell you when a mini downhill series is on.  Fab events to do your first races. https://www.instagram.com/fodmtb/?hl=en

There are so many other events out there. Ask around, message people you know have entered a race. Look at marshalling, spectating. Get a feel for it before taking the plunge if that helps.

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to Girls on wheels website and subscribe to the newsletter, where you’ll get a peek at upcoming guests and be in with a chance to get involved, with topic suggestions, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  Plus you can stay in the loop about what GOW has planned. Exciting.

If you have liked what you've heard then please leave me a review on podchaser.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode where I chat with Sarah about the power or being brave and vulnerable and how reaching out to the mountain bike community helped created her life as it is today. Tune in next week to hear more.

Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can mountain biking help your mental health and why are women only events and communities so important in the mountain bike world?

This is what I chat about with the hilarious Shawnee in today's episode. 

Shawnee is the founder of Shred Like A Girl, a women only mountain bike clothing brand and global community of girl shredders, originally from the land of sunshine and giant spiders, Straya’, she made the move to the UK back in December 2021 and is here to stay.  

Shawnee openly shares her struggles with her mental health and we talk about how mountain biking has offered her the perfect remedy to those dark days.   We chat about the escapism and release that getting on your bike gives you and how despite the battles you can have with yourself about getting out,  when you do, it isn’t long before the good stuff kicks in.

We also talk about how women only mountain bike groups and events played a vital role in Shawnee forging connections and helping her settle into her new life in the UK.  We give context around why these groups are so important to women in mountain biking, so any guy out there who hears themselves say…”but what about male only groups” can think a bit deeper about that comment and gain some insights and change their thoughts about this being about them and “anti-men”.   

The Guest: 

Shawnee has built Shred like a girl to make sure there is women's clothing out there for everyone, no matter what shape or size.  You can check out Shawnee's Website and find her on socials; Shawnee's Facebook page and   @_shredlikeagirl on Instagram where you can be a part of her ever growing community. 

Take away's from the episode:

• You can’t beat a mountain bike ride to escape your own mind.  There is no room for thought when you are on your bike.  It might feel like the biggest struggle to get out there, but it is worth it.

• Women only mountain bike groups create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  Check out MTB Chix and Trails who are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/ and Trail birds, a midlands based group but have members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/   and get following Shawnee and GOW podcast for news on social events.  

Check out the key points in the episode below:

00:00 - Show me the love - How did Shawnee fall in love with mountain biking?

09:20 - One of the visions behind Shred Like A Girl and an experience at Dyfi Bike Park

13:19 - We chat about what can stop a girl getting into mountain biking

18:37 - Why womens groups proved so important for Shawnee

27:15 - Mountain biking and mental health

42:55 - Anxiety, a car journey, and winning a big ass mind battle

49:15 - Shawnee’s biggest small win on her bike

53:13 - Sh*t the bed

58:35 - Quick fire questions

01:05:35 - Squids

Help:

If you are struggling with your mental health you can check out the following for ways you can get help:

https://www.thecalmzone.net/ 

https://www.mind.org.uk/

From experience the best thing you can do is tell someone how you are feeling, it is okay to not be okay. Be brave and reach out.  You can always get in touch with me too, drop me a message on socials.

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to Girls on wheels website and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  

If you have liked what you've heard then please leave me a review on podchaser.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode.....

Next time I chat with an enduro queen about getting more women into racing.  What can the event organisers do better to get more girls signed up?  Tune in next week to hear our thoughts around this.

Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A short insight on what to expect from the girls on wheels podcast.

Sign up to the newsletter on Girls on wheels website for updates on episodes and guest and opportunities to get involved with the pod and follow along on socials;

Insta @girlsonwheelspodcast

Facebook page: girlsonwheelspodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.