The Cyclist Pod: Recent Episodes
Stephen Grant & Raya Hubbell - your Cycling Podcast hosts
The cycling podcast for people who like cycling and/or have a sense of humour. Less race-obsessed testosterone and more social, kit, fun, news and irreverent chat. If you prefer a latte to pralmorelin dihydrochloride, you're in the right place! Featuring regular articles, interviews, and links to the best cycling content on social media. With hosts: triathlete @rayahubbell and comedian @stephencgrant. Sponsored by dhb
Woooah, so... where have they been? Well, due to the lag between recordings and publishing, you'll have to wait until show 91 (ninety one!) to find out, but in this episode Stephen and Raya autopsy the 2nd lockdown and how the cycling world has gone nuts. And bolts. And stems, cogs, pins, derailleurs... they've all gone. It's the great parts shortage and we're only a few weeks from fist fighting in the aisles of Evans Cycles for a brake cable.
We review the New Year's Resolutions we have made (in hope more than expectation) and we hit you with a surefire way to lose 3kilos. No joke - it's the best way to improve your climbing, acceleration and braking. This is why Raya is a top UK coach. Also: This is why nobody takes us seriously. You'll have to listen to find out.
Come for the giggles, stay for the pro-tips.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Voices by Marcella Vincent /
Produced by Stephen Grant and Jimmy Ward
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) /
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License /
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
It's been a while, hasn't it? Which is why, like a grocery delivery driver who's beyond apologetic for missing the last week's package, we're turning up absolutely full to the brim of podcast goodness.
So in one of our busiest and most jam-packed episodes, well, ever, we cover, in no particular order;
Raya's new watch (yeah that Wahoo jobby, she got it before ANYONE, the jammy b*tch), needles (listen to find out), axles (also listen), and we put our tail between our legs and apologise for what can only be described as our most complained about innaccuracy ever discussed. Oh God we're sorry. Can you please stop complaining now?
But our main topic today - and it's a GEEK-OUT of Herculean propotions; is talking to Tim Brownstone, Athlete and Biochemist and CEO and inventor of the Kymira smart textiles collections. That's right, smart clothing. I don't mean a pocket to put your phone in with a little hole to put the charging cable through, I mean, actually clothing that makes you recover faster by making your body work differently. Witchcraft? Sounds it. But listen. It's genuinely beyond fascinating.
It's a busy show. Want to know how busy it is? We ran out of time for the Velominati. RAN OUT OF TIME! Frank will be devestated.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Voices by Marcella Vincent /
Produced by Stephen Grant and Jimmy Ward
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) /
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License /
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Don't let the show length fool you. Stephen and Raya are covering all subjects cycling, purist and tenuously related to the world of two wheels.
Socially distanced as per usual; some of the subjects covered include cycling in fog, breaking spokes mid-ride, how our podcast strategy is ruled by dog pictures, and Raya's deathwish.
Got cycling Christmas presents? We'll tell if you the're good or not. Are we the self-appointed authority? Yes. Do we have any reason for this? No. Stop questioning us, we're doing our best.
Velominati wise it's all about the thrills of hills and pils. No, that's not a typo. It's a pun. Listen on.
Certificiation-wise, we're a South American "15", so themes of a sexual nature are normalised but blasphemy will result in you being ran out of town.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Voices by Marcella Vincent /
Produced by Stephen Grant and Jimmy Ward
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) /
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License /
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
The Cyclist Pod are coronabored. As we imagine you are too, so we're aiming to be the antidote. If not the vaccine.
Stephen and Raya are socially distanced as ever - and attempt some public service broadcasting to help explain what you can actually do cycling-wise during a lockdown.
It's light and shade an equal measures in this pod, as we get to have an amazing chat with the incredible renowned athlete Claire Danson whose survival and reboot from a spectacularly horrific cycling accident is a lesson in positivity and courage.
Velominati wise - we hit a big one - and come out of it with the only word anyone needs in 2020: Twatwaffle.
Oh yeah, certificate 18, yada yada yada
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Voices by Marcella Vincent /
Produced by Stephen Grant and Jimmy Ward
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) /
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License /
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Love is in the air! Or the bin. The Cyclist Pod is back and Stephen discovers his love of the bicycle has been cited in his divorce. Yes, genuinely.
Cycle clothing when not cycling. We answered this 2 years ago. Nothing like an update. Have our views changed? Is it Acceptable or excessive?
Speaking of which... the Velominati's back and things are going downhill pretty quickly. Which is the idea.
On top of all this, the kitbag is back in force. We're geeking out on new fabric technology and also, diving into the new dhb winter range. Is this a big advert? No, we've bought it with our own actual money. It's genuinely that good.
Ample compensation for a binned relationship based on a bike obsession, don't you agree?
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Voices by Marcella Vincent /
Produced by Stephen Grant and Jimmy Ward
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) /
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License /
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
The Cyclist Pod attempts to provide an important public service: Letting the travelling cyclists know where, in these pandemic times, you can actually go cycling. Note that this advice is probably rubbish now thanks to lockdown 2. Grrrreat
Anyway. Come for the advice, stay for the abuse. Raya's facing off to a double whammy: she can't head to Ironman Turkey, and the Velominati is covering one of her biggest bugbears. Does she lose it? Is this show a certificate 18? Damn effing right.
So Stephen's broken from lockdown overaction but he's gone to get a sports massage. A sports massage, it turns out, does not include essential oils, hot rocks, or Enya in the background. It involves being beaten up, and, inevitably, not being offered the kind of extras those other backstreet massages seem to favour so heavily.
There's still some Raya spleen leftover so Garmin gets a kicking from both of our guys (it's deserved) and Stephen is asked to do an impression of Raya. How do we think that turned out?
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Voices by Marcella Vincent /
Produced by Stephen Grant and Jimmy Ward
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) /
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License /
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
The Cyclist Pod talks to Romesh Ranganathan!
In an episode that was initially going to just be about Peloton, we hand over the assessment to someone who actually uses it - a lot - and that's Romesh. Its cutting, surprisingly enthusiastic, and very very funny.
We've still got time for some aimless silliness, a more serious (ish) look at why Peloton might be a serious option for keen cyclists, and a quintessential Velominati. In fact, it's so Velominati, it's a rule that has it's own rules. You can't miss this, despite us still having a few technical gremlins with Stephen's voice. Though it might just be Stephen's voice.
Oh and there's a kitbag where formal dinner wear might now become your go-to Autumn cycling apparel. This is not a windup.
But of course, it's all about Romesh. Strap in, this is a corker.
Well. All about Romesh - and a tiny bit about toblerone. Yeah, you heard.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Voices by Marcella Vincent /
Produced by Stephen Grant and Jimmy Ward
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) /
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License /
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
The Cyclist Pod is back; distanced but never distant!
And we're speaking to Peter Walker; the author of the cycling book "Cycling can save the world". He also happens to be the Guardian's political correspondent. Cycling and politics? Does that mix? Listen and find out.
But now, an apology. This short delay was down to some noteworthyly major tech hurdles; firstly, Raya was hacked. Like, held to ransom. Big time. Top social media honchos, the police, everything. We've never known lockdown drama like it.
Secondly, our show had to be completely recorded after everything went AWOL. Hacked as well? No. Stephen can't work out how to use his new remote recording software and now it sounds like he's drowning. And if he does this again, then that's what'll happen when Raya next sees him in a pool.
Note: the interview with Peter might be a little weird sounding. But then if you've not heard Stephen before, then you'll think that anyway.
Hang on, isn't this a cycling podcast? Of course. So allow Stephen to introduce the best permanent British Audax/Sportive circuit. Open 24h, all year round, and it's free. Why isn't everyone doing it? Also, cue a money saving triathlon. We're full of ideas.
And there's a Velominati that blows right up in your face. No, literally.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Voices by Marcella Vincent /
Produced by Stephen Grant and Jimmy Ward
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) /
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License /
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
The Cyclist Pod comes back after an extended break with a distanced but IN THE SAME ROOM podcast. Baby steps guys, baby steps.
It's a general catchup though so hold tight and Raya and Stephen chew the fat generally. All is looking good and friendly until Raya announces Zwift's new Tour de France challenge... until she realises a key detail of it. Then she goes BOOM. Listen up.
Plus the kitbag, AND, a crowdfunder invention. We're quietly impressed. Will YOU be?
And as ever, the Velominati.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Voices by Marcella Vincent /
Produced by Stephen Grant and Jimmy Ward
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) /
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License /
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
The Cyclist Pod - now with Cyclist Magazine special offer included!
It's sunny - so Stephen and Raya are out. Cycling. OBVS.
Though they still have time to chew the fat of cycling related lockdown observations... including how the warehouses of Europe are running out of cycling kit and what this has done to the 2nd hand market. Never repaired an inner tube? Now might be time to learn.
That said, while there's less kit, there's still a kitbag. Despite barely earning, we've been buying. IT'S AN ADDICTION YOU CAN'T HELP US
And our main story - Strava. They've moved loads of stuff to pay only. Is this good? Bad? Ugly? We dive in and tear their business plan to SHREDS! (Exaggeration)
And as ever, the Velominati.
Oh, and wildlife have got cocky. They think they own the roads. Err, guys, that'll be the cyclists. Fight you for it.
Plus! An offer from super-glossy sponsor (Cyclist Magazine yeah!) which is in the end credits, in case you wanted to fast forward the whole pod (sob). Also: In this description.
- OFFER!!! *
Try 3 issues of Cyclist for just £5 + free Juice Lubes First Aid Kit (gift RRP £29.97) - just head to https://cyclistmag.co.uk/cyclistpod
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Voices by Marcella Vincent /
Produced by Stephen Grant and Jimmy Ward
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) /
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License /
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
The Cyclist Pod - now with Cyclist Magazine special offer included!
Stephen and Raya are socially distanced - of course - and are tackling on-and-off bike pains. Don't worry, it's not as whingy as this sounds.
There's also an offer from our new super-glossy sponsor (Cyclist Magazine yeah!) which is in the end credits, in case you wanted to fast forward the whole pod (sob). Also: In this description.
Also in Pod 78: The Velominati, why cycling is like breastfeeding, Stephen's cycling pride, lavish and due praise for DHB's turbo shorts, boob sweat (stop sniggering) and more about cycling pains and how to push through them.
OK it's mostly about boob seat. We tried to be serious
- OFFER!!! *
Try 3 issues of Cyclist for just £5 + free Juice Lubes First Aid Kit (gift RRP £29.97) - just head to https://cyclistmag.co.uk/cyclistpod
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Voices by Marcella Vincent /
Produced by Stephen Grant and Jimmy Ward
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) /
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License /
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
The Cyclist Pod - now with Cyclist Magazine special offer included!
Stephen and Raya tackle another post-Covid cycle fest - and it's the big helmet debate. As in, the big debate about helmets, not a debate about big helmets. Obvs.
There's also an offer from our new super-glossy sponsor (Cyclist Magazine yeah!) which is in the end credits, in case you wanted to fast forward the whole pod (sob). Also: In this description.
Also in Pod 77: a love of OS maps, a bit more RGT, the Velominati and Stephen is stalking Raya's Nan. Look, it makes sense when you listen. It all joins up beautifully.
Plus the giggles. Big time.
- OFFER!!! *
Try 3 issues of Cyclist for just £5 + free Juice Lubes First Aid Kit (gift RRP £29.97) - just head to https://cyclistmag.co.uk/cyclistpod
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Voices by Marcella Vincent /
Produced by Stephen Grant and Jimmy Ward
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) /
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License /
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
The Cyclist Pod - now with Cyclist Magazine special offer included!
A socially distanced (60 miles) Stephen and an exhausted (cycled for 5 hours) Raya are back together (not together) for another post-Covid cycle fest.
In this remarkably lean-on-swearing episode (certificate 15!! How is this possible?!) getting your bike fix when you're a regular cyclist OR returning to it after maybe decades, is the order of the day.
Firstly, our new super-glossy sponsor (Cyclist Magazine, doncha know) is poured all over (we're still the dhb Cyclist Pod podcast, got that?) and we're keen to remind people of our editorial balance. I.e., whatever comes into our heads, without filters.
That said Cyclist Magazine have chucked us an amazing deal for new subscribers. Check the credits of the podcast for details! (Also in this description. Just scroll down. Easy, no?)
But mostly, it's an enthusiastic ramblefest. In no particular order; How the pro world is taking to Zwift (and how the pros are having their ASSES handed to them by community riders), how remote working is changing the cycling landscape, the Velominati (natch), how to keep your sanity on a 5hr Turbo ride - and your bum shape; your other online cycling options (it's not just Zwift guys), our essential tips for new cyclists and... the shed bike strategy. Let's get that 12kg paperweight and return it back to what it is... the greatest invention of all time.
And it's certificate 15. Astonishing, really. How the f*** do they do it?
- OFFER!!! *
Try 3 issues of Cyclist for just £5 + free Juice Lubes First Aid Kit (gift RRP £29.97) - just head to https://cyclistmag.co.uk/cyclistpod
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Voices by Marcella Vincent /
Produced by Stephen Grant and Jimmy Ward
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) /
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License /
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
- Recorded pre-Pandemic *
Stephen and Raya are both in podcasting towers, possibly for the last time in a long time!
Thankfully they are both in good form, and the banterbus is making regular visits to eachother's weak spots. Raya DNFing Ride London? Check. Stephen panting like a hot elderly dog trying to jump onto a kitchen worktop? Check.
But they're getting misty-eyed and whimsical today, because in show 75, the roots of your love of cycling are delved into. And why your childhood passion for the bicycle might determine your approach to two-wheeled frolics for the rest of your adult life.
And that then spills into cycling holidays; how they are responsible for so many people rediscovering two wheels and their long-forgotten love of bikes. Andy at Flexitreks has been rekindling those flames for decades, and we talk to him about the difficulties and pleasures of being a cycling-specific travel agent.
And of course there's the Velominati, some unnecessarily loud laughter, and a simpering homage to our show sponsor dhb. Love you guys, etc etc.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Voices by Marcella Vincent /
Produced by Stephen Grant and Jimmy Ward
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) /
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License /
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
- Recorded pre-Pandemic *
Stephen and Raya are both in podcasting towers, possibly for the last time in a long time!
In a very liberal and slightly near the knuckle podcast, our duo burn some bridges as quick as they build them.
Cross training (as badly executed by Stephen) is examined, as is the sports that benefit from cycling, and vice versa. You'll be amazed at some of them.
The Velominati gets a full thorough going over; including suggestions for a definite rule 96.
But our main subject is cycling events. Rupert Rivett has been organising Sportives since, well, Sportives were invented. We talk to him and discover why the easiest thing to do at any Sportive is clearly... ride it.
And we learn the DEFINITIVE difference between a Sportive and Audax. Think you know? You're wrong. It's like the difference between a lake and a pond (where you're also wrong).
Plus terrible accents, and unnecessary meanness about Hovding. Again.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Voices by Marcella Vincent /
Produced by Stephen Grant and Jimmy Ward
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) /
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License /
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya are both in podcasting towers, in this show recorded pre-pandemic and before social distancing.
In this feature packed show, our intrepid duo have their naughty hats on - very much certificate 18.
We go into detail in Raya's new cycling related media jobs; and they're on screen too, so with the pod she's just pleased to be broadcasting without makeup for once.
The world of e-Racing is delved into - and how Raya faired when taking on her (particularly adept) co-presenter OJ Borg.
Also - Super League Triathlon is explained. Which leads the conversation into the question; what IS the best order to do those three sports in?
Plus the Velominati is taken to task about the position of gear and brake cables. It's a chance for both of our presenters to show just how little they know about bike construction, despite thinking they did. Warning: it's woeful.
And in our main topic, we discuss the specifics of cycling at height. Stephen has been to Colombia to do exactly that, just for the benefit of this single podcast. This is NOT a cost efficient way to broadcast.
Plus! A welcome return to the Bike Price is Right. Today's bicycle is a circus bike. Would you like a go? Of course you would. Who wouldn't?
And don't forget the super generous dhb discount code (25%!). We think it's in this pod. You'll just have to listen.
Also: Mute your Amazon Echo. This podcast is going to send it haywire. This is a genuine warning.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Voices by Marcella Vincent /
Produced by Stephen Grant and Jimmy Ward
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) /
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License /
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya are still not sat across eachother and it's not because they've fallen out, it's because the 'rona is still locking Raya away and making the journey socially irresponsible.
In this special Coronavirus episode - part 2 of a series of 2, Raya and Stephen start to see how cyclists, athletes, and the general public are adapting to this new world of cycling.
They look in detail at indoor training which is the new normal; the full range of cycling devices available; how the turbo trainer has gone from a nicety to an invaluable essential item; and how people are keeping the cycling vibe going in testing circumstances.
And with more and more countries banning cycling as well, how it's the only training option. Attaching a shopping basket to a TT bike is fooling nobody.
Organised events, football, the Olympics, shopping, virtual cycling platform RGT, and dogging. They're all discussed.
It's like a Zoom call with two of your best buddies who never give you a chance to speak. Your ray(a)s of light through the doom and gloom.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya are not sat across eachother (for reasons that can be guessed, but you're not quite right) and are recording their first ever podcast remotely.
In this special Coronavirus episode - part 1 of a series of 2, Raya and Stephen discuss how the virus has affected cycling, and how it will change the local, national and international cycling landscape.
It's a mixture of silly, serious, funny, and gallows humour as the two try to put a brave face on how their lives have been changed; Raya can't go out to do her job, and Stephen doesn't have one.
It's the most fun you can have from 2m away.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya are back in podcasting towers (for most of the pod) with a special feature length show.
Recorded before the global pandemic shut down large elements of, well, the globe, Stephen and Raya talk flippantly about Coronavirus and how it might effect people like Raya who is immunocompromised (erk). Raya's ADHD, potty mouth, dyslexia also come into the fray. It's confessional time, clearly.
Also: cycling in the heat. The benefits, technique, and also - should you? No need to know how to approach this, we've done that for you.
Stephen's had another puncture which he couldn't fix. Cycling fail. What's wrong with the bloke?
And he's changed his system of Strava event naming to use cryptic crossword clues. Which he explains to a bemused and attempting-to-sound-interested Raya
And of course the velominati casts a judgy eye on the world of road cycling.
But our main topic today; we talk to the all-female team behind dhb's MODA range of clothes, who are rewriting the rule book on a very male dominated world. Making a cycling kit from scratch. inception, design, manufacturing, testing and marketing - it's all here.
And don't forget the super generous dhb discount code (25%!) mentioned in this pod. Along with what dhb stands for. We think. To be honest, we've left it too late to ask for sure now so we're just going to pretend we know anyway.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya are back recording at the podcast's country retreat (Raya's house) with a suspiciously tailor-made podcast.
In that we are discussing that arguably essential, arguably immaterial step in the pursuit of cycling perfection; the bike fit. There are various systems out there that aim to get you perfectly sized up and sorted for your bicycle, and in this episode we talk to Ross from Proper Cycling about the Torke fit - while Stephen gets fitted for it. Expect a slight annoying turbo trainer hum in the background, natch.
On top of that, there's another rule of the Velominati analyzed / criticised / idolised.
And. Couples who train together... do WHAT together? Hmm? Raya, spill the beans.
Finally, medals. SHINY! Worthy trinket for your race/sportive endeavours, or just meaningless smug-faced boast-tat? We delve.
And don't forget the super generous dhb discount code (25%!) hidden in this pod. Or the last one. We can't remember. There's a mission statement, we definitely know that much.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell sponsored by dhb
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya would like to welcome you to a new dawn of the podcast - or as we now call it, the dhb Cyclist Pod podcast!
So please welcome to the arms of the pod our new title sponsor, dhb. Hooray! The guys and gals of this brilliant clothing manufacturer are making sure the pod is funded until the end of 2020. Of course, Stephen and Raya are making sure the funds are carefully invested to keep the pod going for as long as possible, though we are writing this from a yacht barely able to see due to the huge amounts of Bollinger and party drugs we're having.
Of course, that's a joke. There's lots of them in the podcast. Along with our main topic this show; Canary cycling. It's been the don of Europe's cycling getaways for what feels like decades now. We ask why, and more importantly, we go over there to find out what it has to offer. And Raya gets a revelation from Stephen that leaves her feeling... well, nauseous.
On top of that, the velominati, face recognition through a helmet, and Raya's Texan challenge.
On a serious note, regular pod fans should rest assured; our sponsors aren't going to change what we put into the podcast. Editorially it's entirely still Stephen and Raya's decisions. In other words; yes, there's swearing. We can't change that. It's too late for us. We're potty mouthed and beyond help.
Ooh! And there's a super generous dhb discount code (25%!) hidden in the pod. Listen to ALL of it, and it shall be revealed.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya are still in a cycling company's broom cupboard, channelling their inner teens and talking sex. Again.
That's right, this is the sequel to show 25 they though they couldn't make... but they did. Cycling and sex. The venn diagram overlap is looking bigger, and let's not even concentrate on the shape of it.
And this time, we bring in a 3rd party. WOAH THERE! I mean we have a guest. A bona fide sex worker and triathlete - keen social media cycling advocate Charlotte Louise joins us on the line, something all other people have to pay decent coin for. Yet you get her for free. Result.
Also the Velominati (tenuously sex related), back ache (could easily be sex related, isn't though), and Stephen's hilarious and pathetic overshoe hell (not in the slightest sex related, but use your imagination, right?)
This is an 18. In every land of the planet. Of course.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya record the podcast live from the broom cupboard of a top UK cycling company. Not a joke. The acoustics are excellent and we may be back.
Various loosely cycling related and looser cycling unrelated topics hone into the pod's crosshairs on show 68: Storms have been ravaging the UK and we discuss what's possible - if anything - bike wise in those conditions.
Anyway. We take Storm Dennis and Ciara and raise it with 'Tornado Raya'. Is this a thing? It is. Listen up for deets.
In other news, we bid farewell to the Strava puns that have kept Stephen's social media ticking over for 2.5 years, and welcome with open-ish arms the new replacement for 2020.
But our main topic is one at the core of cycling. Rule 5 is the root of the Velominati's powers. Today we tackle the spiritual, philosophical, mental, mechanical and phsyical elements of Rule 5. And ask. If you are a cyclist - of any level, quality or ability; do you need to, at all times, harden the f*ck up?
Oh yeah, it's a certificate 18 today. Regardless of your land of origin.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya are out and about (once again!) but this time in Surrey - where a fully stocked gym hones into view.
But instead of just getting a coffee and cake and watching yummy mummies doing Pilates at the speed of a glacier, they are put through their paces with Alice Tourell North, an olympian and top level triathlete.
On top of that, there's speed awareness, embaressing scooter based accidents and maaaaybeee some sponsorship news.
And the Velominati. Natch.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
It's 2020 and with that in mind, Stephen and Raya are talking the goals and resolutions that will make you a better cyclist. Well, someone, anyway. Not specifically you. Thankfully, they're actually talking sense, as joining them in the studio is coach Will Usher to highlight those areas and approaches that will - shock horror - actually make a difference.
And talking a difference, there's an outside chance you've put a few pounds on over Christmas. Amiright? Well, guess what, that might not be such a bad thing! Incredible and delicious details to follow.
Plus, the Velominati as usual, and live Christmas present opening. It's bicycle related OF COURSE - do you even have to ask?
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Wind! It's happening. So how do you deal with it? Stephen and Raya get to grips with that pressing subject.
Except before they do, they discuss South America, how to cheat at Ironman, race/group riding etiquette (kinda), and where the hell they've been all summer.
And then it's onto the big old cycling banana which is blustery conditions. Can we do anything to stop the wind ruining our rides? Fresh from 40mph headwind hell, Raya has the lowdown. (That's a clue)
It's a big old catchup and you can't miss it.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Rumours of the podcast's demise are unfounded. Stephen and Raya are back with their most ambitious episode yet.
And their ambition is far from amateur... as the self professed non-pro podcast can't help but dip their toe into the world of sponsors and impossible speeds, diets, and outfits; our duo are behind the scenes at the Tour of Britain learning as fast as possible how this all actually works. The organisers, the sponsors, the superfans, the riders, the teams and the spectators; we speak to them all.
Plus the velominati, details of Raya's forthcoming championships, the 'depression diet', how to hit those weight targets (and by hit we mean 'ignore'), the tell-tale signs that someone is a cyclist, and finally, a veloser. What is that? We'll tell you. Tuck in and enjoy it before it's considered pejorative and maybe even borderline xenophobic.
Don't say we didn't warn you.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya haven't had the time to do a podcast recently. So they've done one, en route to doing a podcast. In the car.
Yes, the boundaries of podcastery are once again pushed back and smashed to oblivion as a road trip provides the backdrop to another bike-fuelled (though literally petrol-fuelled) natter.
On topic today; bib shorts. What do you do with them when you aren't wearing them? The question is not as bonkers as it sounds. OK, OK, it is.
And!! We cover tandems. Realistically, they should be better (i.e. faster) than normal bikes. Why aren't they?
Rapha. Expensive, but brilliant. But is it? The myths and facts of one of Britain's most loved brands are discussed, first hand, by Stephen, who has caved in to its loveliness.
Of course, anything Stephen does, Raya can do better. She's not getting new pricey clothes. She's getting new pricier BIKES. A five-figure beauty is winging its way to her.
It's not all trivial though - there's some life decision going on too, all related to cycling. I mean, isn't everything related to cycling?
By the way, if you're listening to this pod in the car, and the road noise is too bad to hear us... like a bad break up; it's not us, it's you.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya have a mass catch-up in another packed ep.
There's a lot going on as ever! Our chatty duo are all not about the pro world - but they're happy to discuss what that takes. And it turns out that Raya is pro in everything except the bit that makes you... well, a pro.
From an athlete perspective, we delve into the differences between sprinters and climbers. Which one are you? I think you might be surprised.
And! Did you know? Pregnant women are the best athletes. No, don't pull that face, it's science, innit.
Plus there's the Velominati, news (fake news!) to make Raya look horrified, and a kitbag to make that expression ever worse. Check our social media. It's border line torture.
But our main topic today is about traversing the cities. We've cycled through central London so that you don't have to. Why? All shall be revealed.
Please note; at the time of writing, Stephen and Raya are both still alive, so it didn't go as badly as you are thinking.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya present another mammoth cycling podcast for you to tuck into.
In this bumper length pod, Stephen and Raya delive into - and have explained to them - the science behind nailing your hydration. It's as eye opening as it is obvious. There's a life 'sweat test' from a bicycle show, and two separate interviews with the experts behind the science and the campaigners out there changing how we look at having a drink.
And! One of those people crowbars in a special Cyclist Pod discount code for all listeners, so check out our hidden code somewhere in the pod (hint: somewhere near the end).
But it's all about the drink! So find how people testing the rules, and what can be done to stop it, and how alcohol was a regular addition on the pro tour.
And of coures, there's a Velominati - which keeps the drinking theme going. Confused? Listen, you won't be.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya present another cycling podcast for your delectation.
A Zwift 'home spinning' competitor is discussed, and also Raya admits to being a bit of a recent Tour addict.
But when it comes to addictions, Stephen's admission is deeper, wider ranging and more worrying. Stephen is... a cycling shopaholic.
Because this is the review show; every cycling purchase he has made (for review of course) has been put through its paces, and is discussed, analyzed, and given a star rating out of five. ONLY FOUR THINGS FROM NEARLY 170 ITEMS get the full Cyclist Pod 5 star rating. What will they be? Raya can barely wait to hear. The end of the list. This pushes the team's friendship to breaking point.
Of coures, there's a Velominati - with a discussion that takes in maths, pedantry, value and worth, and poking a stick and the pro world. What's not to love?
Stephen 'the fly whisperer' hopes you enjoy the show. No idea what we're on about? Listen to the end.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya are back in podcasting towers, bemoaning a lack of aircon but looking forward to a summer of cycling delights. And as part of their on-off series of improving your cycling (is this a thing? It is now), ailments are interrogated, along with the solutions. It's a must listen for beginner cyclists through to the regulars.
But that's not the main crux of show 59... no no no. That would be the interview with established Yoga teacher and recent road cycling convert Cat Duval, who explains (in quite impressively technical detail) the advantages to cycling of yoga. They even have a go (check social media for the videos).
Plus news as to which show in the podcast series is bareable to listen to, bib short top trumps, surprise chamoix news, and the Velominati has Stephen singing. Yeah. It's at 9:10 so if you want to skip that, you've been warned.
Warning. Contains graphic references to socks.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya record their final pod from Portugal, this time sat round the pool. Which Stephen gets in. With no hint of an inflatable armband anywhere, adding to this Pod's sense of panic.
But don't worry, it's all about the bike. Hence swimming is discussed as a training tool, means of rehabilitating after injury and the effect it has - both positive and negative - on your cycling. Does it make a difference? Huge, apparently, according to Raya.
It's another bulging kitbag too, with that old stalwart 'jerseys' being discussed, as well as Stephen's turn to try out the Aftershokz.
And it's finally time to draw a line under the Velominati. Literally
Holiday courtesty of Proper Cycling Holidays - http://www.propercycling.co.uk/holidays
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya are all South and no trousers as they head to the Atlantic coast in their chamoix shorts to soak up the rays - and tarmac - of Portugal.
And not only are they not in Podcast towers, they are live from a cycling cafe in the Algarve. Buckle in for a logistical nightmare!
As ever there's a Velominati and some kit news, and a quick look back at our most recent rides and activities, but the focus is very much on cycling holidays - and how you go about them.
And in a move destined to lose a lot of new found friends, the best cycling destinations are announced... which might include Sp*in.
There are appears to be some local rivalry. That sound you can hear is Stephen hastily putting his helmet back on.
Holiday courtesty of Proper Cycling Holidays - http://www.propercycling.co.uk/holidays
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya have got a lot to get through, after doing their biggest ride, which was also a LOT to get through.
In another ram-packed episode, a still-croaking Raya takes us through some cool new cycling kit she's got her hands on, including possibly the only acceptable (morally and legally) way to hear music on a bicycle. It's a must-listen, in every sense.
And this is just the tip of a full-to-the-brim kitbag. They're in a full reviewing / applauding / denegrating mood, don't miss this either.
PLUS! Emptying the tank, you say? Since Froomy (God bless his broken bits) decided to 'emtpy his tank' of all his training at the end of last year, we naturally decided to follow suit. So we started (once the rain was less biblical) in front of the Pier on Brighton seafront and rode North by North West, for 13 (slightly broken) hours. How far did they get? Dive in and find out.
Plus Volminati and all your faves.
Oh, and the accent over the live show launch was Liverpudlian, by the way. I think Stephen is in love.
Peace and Love!
The Team
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya have put aside talking about bicycles to do something they've never done before - croak about them.
Yes, a voice-ruined Raya gets all husky on yo ass as she explains how she lost her voice being the goddam coach of the year (Not an award, or at least, she has not won it). This comes sandwiched between a swim and a tantrum, the two of which, were pretty well related.
Meanwhile, Stephen has gone mad and has bought something... unnecessary. And yes it's cycling related, and yes, it's four figures, and no, he didn't need it. That's what unnecessary means. Sheesh.
Of course, the chat's all cycling; there's strong pomposity from the Velominati, More (i.e. changed) details of Beat the Train emerge, and our main feature is actually pretty interesting, even for people who (gulp) take cycling seriously; Aero. We speed to a leading expert and a man making Aero gains the domain of the people who don't own a wind tunnel.
We might just (say it quietly) make you quicker. That's right, this podcast will actually help your cycling. We're scared too.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya have been at the nitrous oxide again, it sounds like, as the podcast goes on a number of tangents that make this one of the funniest, if least informed, episodes yet.
Of course, there's cycling in abundance; including details of Raya's most recent race. Where she almost drowned. No exaggeration.
And bike branding is discussed. Is your bike frame logo areas on no-go areas? And does the Velominati have anything to say about this?
And also, does the Velominati have an opinion on punctures? Find out.
Plus; the hidden bikes of the Italian mountains, adding some pink to your cycling, and speeding on a bicycle. Can you? Is there a law? We cut through the bs to give you the ld. (This stands for low down. Is that an abbreviation? It is now.)
And finally - Beat the Train. The Sportive that continues to be planned with minimal planning. More details inside! That have now probably been superceded. That's right, ignore the pod, the event is now starting in Luton. This is shambolic. No wonder they can barely host a pod. What a waste of space.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya are back and are becoming eco worriers. That's right - they're worrying (well Stephen is) that cycling isn't maybe quite so touchy-feely to the environment as he thought it was. Maybe the only way he's going to hug a tree is by wrapping himself around it off a tight bend.
Not to worry - Raya ups the ante with news of her Aquabike adventures, and the Pod goes all multisport as new boundaries - and events - are invented. With minimal thought.
And what happens when you let Strava plan your whole day? We find out.
But our main topic is as green as the look on Stephen's face when he's descending Leith Hill; because we not only find out which bikes are nicer to the planet, but we speak to PRESCA - the new manufacturer who's taking the one area of cycle kit nobody thought to make sustainable. And it's all British, donchaknow (Stephen wipes patriotic tear from his eye).
Plus velominati, laughing, rudeness, yada yada, etc.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya are back with another feature length episode of the Cyclist Pod; and for once, despite their lack of knowledge of the cycling world, they can tell their arse from their elbow.
Their arse? Well, that's because the world of saddle abrasions is discussions; as Raya, has, unbelievably, saddle sores. Her arse (that's ass! Hello American listeners!) is delved into. We could have worded that better, we know.
And Stephen has his eyes opened to a neighbouring problem that only female cyclists experience. Sisters; we're with you. Guys: You need to know this. Like, it's ESSENTIAL.
And they discuss nutrition for training, when on holiday. There's always something useful in this pod, so there's that.
Also, a spontaneous kitbag-obsessed episode occurs, as the live opening of a cycling parcel leads us into a manner of additional discussions. As well as another Kickstarter cycling invention interrogated.
And the elbow? Well, this show travels slightly up from the elbow to the wrist, as we look in detail at the watch options for the keen cyclist out there. Should it matter? Probably not. But if you want to record metrics, with or instead of a bike computer (and smart phone!), this will be the episode for you.
Plus velominati, recent rides, Strava stuff, laughter, swearing, and enthusiastic ignorance.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya can't shut up about bikes. And here's 1hr15m of proof.
Firstly, there's some extra info about the Beat the Train sportive. How is this Sportive different from all the others? We'll tell you. It's significantly more shambolic. We don't start where we finish, we give you an option to bail out, there's no food stops (unless you bring money) and you carry your finishing trophy with you. We know it sounds crap, but it won't be. Put June 23rd in your calendar. What? It's there already? Well, you know what we meant.
And Pod 51's surprisingly less turbo-nutter style conversation takes us to lie-ins and, bizarrely, cream teas. How is this relevant to cycling? It just is, alright. Listen and all shall be revealed.
Of course, we're nothing if not consistent, so there's a super-serious Velominati to be contending with. We're taking this one so seriously we've put on our Jawbreakers.
But our major topic today - out of nowhere - is... are cyclists human? Stupid question, you say? Well, don't ask the public. Apparently, having two wheels under your body elevates (or denigrates) you to the status of 'non-human'. A new survey has shed eye-opening light as to why so many cyclists are targetted while out on the roads. This is a two-latte listen, make no mistake.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya celebrate a half century of the Cyclist Pod with a bumper edition show; and if you ride bicycles (or even horses), this one is a must.
In this massively drawn out podcast (and conversation), it's all about the terrain. Snow? We cover it. Riding huge organic beasts? We cover that too. Saddles both of the tiny triathlong shaped carbon and the massive 15th century leather variety are covered, and the velominati has a say on that too. OBVS.
Who wins in a race of horse vs bike? Want the answers? Erm. So do we.
But our major topic today is taking your bike off the road; as we discuss mountain biking, as a sport, as a pasttime, and as a way of roadies to get back to nature. And with that, MTB World Cup commentator Dan Jarvis is on the phone to tell us how you can get into it, and who is doing the business at the top end of the sport.
LET'S OFF ROAD! Etc.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya appear to be on a mixture of helium and amphetamines as they squeeze a bucket load of content into the most packed of hours.
In a nutshell: The Cyclist Pod sportive 'Beat the train'... unsurprisingly, has delays. Stephen still going to do a triathlon (he was hoping Raya had forgot), Strava news is BACK - and so is The Bike Price is Right, where the rules on cost have been blown out of the water.
But most impressively, Stephen's got a new equipment idea. Stand back cycling world - you're about to be reinvented.
And we have a new sponsor! Err... actually, no. Raya does. Almost.
You'd think they'd be tired after they went for a run together. You'd be wrong.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya decide to knuckle down after 47 shows of faffing about and concentrate on making the listener... a better cyclist. It's taken over a year, but yes, that's what they're finally doing.
And they're not doing this by making you stronger, or faster, or lighter, or all that gubbins countless, coaches, articles, trainers or interviews are doing. No. They're making you the most important thing of all: Skilled.
With the help of listeners and social media followers, Stephen and Raya go through the abilities you need to prosper on the bike - and the ones you don't. OK, I know this is sounding all sensible, but it's a sensible as it is a laugh. So take notes.
Oh, and the Velominati rules pitches bicycles versus families (who wins?), and a surprisingly comprehensive review of the Wahoo Elemnt Bolt bike computer.
The pod is bordering on useful. It's all gone a bit weird.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Stephen and Raya go into a subject frenzy as British Cycling come into the crosshairs for what could be seen as a severe lack of humour. Details to follow.
On top of that, this show's a maelstrom of topics; including
- Expectations of the name Chris
- The 'Pelotan' advert
- Protein powders. Beefy ones.
- The Velominati is DOWN
- Lanzarote report
- Cycling when ill
- Why SG lost a Strava follower
- And look out for our extra bit: SG channelling his inner Gay German Cyclist.
But finally, this pod grapples with the news that inferred porn marketing is not welcome in the world of cycling. Do they have a point? We tackle it. Head on. Though we can't, because the pun potential is so great we just can't stop laughing. Sorry guys. Serious journalists, we aint.
So with that, we talk to Chris, the team boss of the Porn Pedallers. He makes some good points, and we try not to laugh like schoolchildren. We discuss it all with Chris; the team, the cyclists, how they manage to squeeze into those jerseys, and riding generally. Oh, and PS - his pornos. Which is an anagram of 'sponsorship'.
MIND BLOWN, RIGHT?
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Raya and Stephen go from judgy judgy to matchy matchy as we delve into the world of cyclist clobber.
From the practical, to the stylish, to the outlandish, our duo's chat is all wardrobe as cycling's most contentious industry is dived into. Not in any detail of course; the Pod isn't about journalism. It's about opinions that are at best guessed at and worst, wildly inaccurate.
Thankfully, we're joined on the Pod by cycling clothing supremo Pete from the Discerning Cyclist. He's got the low down on the clothing to not sweat in when you slow down. Can you be a stylish, succesful, and yet practical cyclist out of lycra? He thinks so.
On top of that the Pod goes off piste repeatedly, covering all the subjects from Raya's new bike's name (thanks to you the listeners!), when chocolate milkshake is not chocolate milkshake, and news on the Chase The Train Sportive. Yes, that's the Sportive we're organising, despite not having done any organising yet.
Finally, the Velominati socks it to the beardy weirdies. You're both welcome, and ostracised. Confused? Frank is full-on velonazi today, so brace yourself.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Raya and Stephen take their advocate role as seriously as ever as a magazine article listing the 17 worst kind of cyclists is disseminated, interrogated, autopsied, and mostly ridiculed.
Side issues from this lead to discussions as to if a Penny Farthing is actually the world's most efficient bicycle (it should be), and we touch on the BIG questions in cycling. Red lights, and helmets. Yeah, we go there. Strap in. Or don't. (Apparently safety is a personal issue).
Plus, all the news (both on and off course) from Raya's recent trip to the Dubai Triathlon (she's a complete soldier don't you know), and a feelgood kitbag that's going to make you want to hug someone near you. Go on, do it.
Finally, the Velominati devolves into why Americans can't use their hands correctly (or maybe European's can't?), and the signalling question no cycling rulebook ever tells you: the best way to call someone a w*nker from a bicycle.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Raya and Stephen hit the reset button as they go over the 12 fundamental habits of cycling; a great introduction to those of you who are starting out, and a reminder to those existing cyclists of the bad habits they have to avoid.
This leads to some fairly hilarious anecdotes as our duo recount their failings in their early days of cycling. Worth a listen for just the clip-in problems.
Tips and advice include where to get involved, how to go about getting into it, where and who with to ride... changing gears, changing tyres, and changing position... and joining clubs, and not overdoing it.
Plus! A welcome return for the Strava segment (not literally), a new kitbag category, and everyone's favourite - You Drive Like a Dick. Beware, crap drivers, we're back onto you.
Plus, as ever, the Velominati presents us with a rule that riles Raya to the point of explaining how she slammed a fellow cyclist on social media. It's a bit sweary, but you've gotta love that girl when she's angry.
Show 44 - it's a must listen for cyclists of all level! Though the 'must' bit is sort of a marketing thing. They're not going to literally come round and make sure you've done it. They've got stuff to do, we're sure you have to also.
(and listen out for the bonus bit at the very end)
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Raya and Stephen are back in a celebration of the mankind's greatest invention. No it really is, did you not know that? Steve Jobs worked it out. He said that 'computers are the bicycles of the mind', which makes bicycles the computers of the body. Erm. Actually we'll get back to you on that.
Anyway, it's another jam packed podcast. Yes, we're not that frequent right now (we are BUSY!) but we still pack them in when we do them. So we cover two main subjects in just the one podcast, with...
Naming conventions. Does your bike have a name. SHOULD your bike have a name? And where does it come from. And is it an it, or a girl or a boy? And has somebody cleverer than us already answered that? Almost definitely. Let's not forget, bikes are our babies. So Raya won't hard a nasty word said about them, protective bike mum that she is.
And then! Another major topic. Mountain biking - when you do it competitively, where do you go next? Paul Davies - who has done exactly that - has the answer(s). He's our main interview.
And added to all that, is details of our first ever Cyclist Pod ride out! "BEAT THE TRAIN" will be on Sunday June 16th and start in East Anglia (ish) and end in Sussex (ish). It'll involve a train. Or more likely than that, a bus replacement service. Listen for details.
Anyway, Raya and Stephen hope you enjoy it. Throw your hands up in the air!!! Or maybe don't. Because the Velominati has something to say about that. In fact, we've got something to say about the Velominati - including our new challenge to break as many rules as possible.
We've got our naughty helmets on, and this show is all the better for it.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Raya and Stephen throw open the doors to 2019 and dive into theirs, and cycling's, plans for the year.
The events, the sportives, the training, the holidays, the imminent kit... it's all covered. Well, not all, but it's sauntered through, for sure.
This inlcudes details of the Pod's first ever trip overseas (well, Raya and Stephen cycling together overseas, specifically) and how you can get involved! (You can't. But if you listen closely enough there's enough details for you to stalk us. But please don't).
And a lighthearted chat about Park Run starts to snowball into a set of promises Stephen makes that will shape his 2019. Sadist BFF Raya is going to ruin him. Sorry, coach him. Still. Same thing.
Oh! And it's kit kit kit today! Proper shoes, proper pedals... and gloves. Oh the gloves. Listen out to one of our most favourite kickstarters of all time.
Also, a fairly innocuos Illuminati leaves our duo discussing superstition in cycling and making lots of unimpressed noises.
Finally, those noises turn to horse noises when some innovative laws to stop close passing by traffic are discussed alongside some fairly extreme, yet similar, ideas. Lights? Sticks? Defecating mid-ride? Check.
#BeMoreHorse. It'll make sense, we promise.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Raya and Stephen are joined by car journalist and keen cyclist Ben Oliver as they decamp to the pub for their Christmas party.
To keep things moving along, they start with two drinks in them (aka their usual limit), and things get ... messy, rude, offensive, and most of all, hilarious.
Discussed, in borderline slander terms, are the Rapha sale, overseas cycling, alcohol and cycling, cycling and sex, more cycling, and we exchange Cycling related Christmas presents. To cap it off, they narrate Raya's Strava end of year video live on the pod.
But listen out for their new listener challenge, which will be hidden in their Stravas in 2019. It's... incriminating, childish, and will come back to haunt them.
They're drunk, it's rude, you've been warned.
Merry Christmas!
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Raya and Stephen record their first ever podcast live, at Proper Cycling Coffee, in front of a live studio audience.
There's a very relevant to surroundings Velominati, a muliti-player The Bike Price is Right (yep, everyone plays), and some news too.
But this podcast is all about the 2018 Cyclist Pod Awards; where the key players in the categories no other cycling industry (are bothering with) are hotly contested. And there is the biggest award of all; the broken horn award, offered to the worst category of driver of 2018. Can you feel the tension?
Categories are Product of the year, Strava Legend of the Year, Most embarrassing product of the year, Word of the year, Fail of the year, the Blagger award (the free shit of the year award), Best Velominati rule and Best listener complaint. And topping things off are our Guest of the year, Cyclist Pod presenter of the year (seriously) and the Dicks of 2018 - the Worst drivers of the year who are competing for the BROKEN HORN AWARD.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Raya and Stephen pack in a pre-Christmas special with a ton of extra content - and even an extra voice in the studio.
There's shopping galore, as not only has Stephen splashed out on proper sunglasses, but his eBay exploits have taken a surprise turn when a series of 'what the hell' bids have turned into auction wins.
But our main chat topic is the Euro championships Raya has just returned from. Ibiza!!! How did she do? And how did she do it? Stephen does his best to understand, even when Raya describes the cycling route as 'all uphill' and Stephen wonders if the course organiser was M C Escher. Either way. listen out for a few banter fails (#banterfails). It's not all love.
And our main feature: Zwift. We talk to Steve Beckett, the chief of marketing and one of the original 6 members of the company, about their plans for the future, how virtual cycling is defining the shape of training to come, and even how it will change the world of gaming.
Plus, as ever, the Velominati presents us with a rule that gets to the core of training. With 3 voices in the studio it can't be a split vote. Which way will it go? And does anyone care?
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Raya and Stephen are wrapped up snug on a bitter autumn day in Podcast Towers, and as ever the conversation is 'all about the bike'.
Staring forlornly at the sodden roads, Stephen discusses his last big 'challenge' of 2018, which will be his longest and hardest ride yet.
Included in that is the hurdle of which London bridge a cyclist should use to cross, and before you know it the Pod has the lowdown on cycling and bridges. Which one are you most likely to die on? We couldn't wait to find out either.
Of course, if tunnels is more your thing, then the Pod can reveal the only legal way a bicycle can cross the Thames on a motorway. It's little known, and it'll blow your mind.
Elsewhere, Raya gets a surge of maternal pride as Stephen hints he might make that transition to actual road cyclist, as he gets himself an essential piece of Roadie gear he's put off for 5 years. And he discusses the idea of a smart bike computer, in a pathetic attempt to try and talk Raya into buying him one for Christmas.
And finally, we have our big topic: Coaching. Regular nominee for Coach of the Year, Will Usher, joins us in the studio to discuss cycle coaching; from training, to diet, to psychological hurdles, the route to being the best version of you is laid bare. This is the expert consultation every cyclist calls out for, and it's free, right here, in this Pod. Can you afford to not listen?
Oh and of course there's the kitbag and the Velominati being as pompous as ever (and this one is particularly 'spinctrally embedded').
Aaaaand Stephen becomes a Maserati. Thanks, overly ostentatious branding!
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
As Winter draws in, Raya and Stephen aren't afraid to out... to an event, or 4. And Show 37 sees the podcast hit the road, and not how Stephen 'hit the road' when he had his accident blah blah snoooore.
So, in this kit and feature filled episode, as well as our usual staple (that would be the Velominati, don't you know) we dive into cereal bars - where Raya doesn't pull her punches (she's got opinions and she's not afraid to air them!) Sepcifically, paleo bars. Bars that cavemen would eat. Before going for a huge bike ride. On a bicycle that hadn’t been invented today.
Then we discuss the revolutionary - or just bonkers - shoulderless rucksack, and the perils of cyclists using rucksacks generally. And there's a welcome return for the Bike Price is Right... as Stephen, has bought (another) bike. Oh dear. But is the price right?
This is balanced against his minor purchase which is helping him go faster. Lots faster. You'll understand when you listen.
AND! Our events diary overfloweth. Details of our first LIVE Cyclist Pod podcast is contained within, along with the awards ceremony Stephen is about to host/hosted. Expect jugs of champagne! Oh, and course, there's the other party we've been invited to, where you can expect jugs. Just jugs.
And a welcome return for you drive like a dick. Fire up the social media, this one is bonkers.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Raya and Stephen go head down and full aero as they power into show 36... no I don't really know what that means either.
As well as the usuals (a particularly anal Velominati is rigorously inspected), the side issues become how to crowbar your cycling into your dating (no really) and the sprawling world of cycle event merchandising.
And there's big news! The Cyclist Pod is going LIVE! We are doing a live show, and YOU are invited! Details are in the podcast. Amazing times!
Now. The show is called big tips and you're probably thinking, where are these hints and tips? Sorry, we hoodwinked you. Dan BIGham and Jacob TIPper are the big new names in cycling, and they are bucking the system to do this all by themselves. Genuinely; they are the future of British Cycling - by virtue of the fact that they are nothing to do with British Cycling. Raya travelled to Derby and pinned them to a cafe wall next to a toilet door.
Oh and we mourn the horn.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Raya and Stephen take the show to the Midlands in Show 35, as our duo head for the NEC and the Cycle Show 2018.
And whereas the serious magazines are covering the innovations, advancements, and industry trends that will be key for the next 12 months in the cycling industry, our two did a bit of milling, grafted some freebies, and tried not to laugh at any of the knock-off Far Eastern brandnames. And failed at most of these. But there's a report, so that's good.
And importantly, both Raya and Stephen have alibis as to where they were when that trophy got stolen. It wasn't us. No, it really wasn't. But we've got some ideas who DID do it.
On top of that, the discussion takes more diversions than a Sportive through a warzone, as we discuss cycling superstition, if a robot can cycle, and (poignantly) what to do if you cycle over a landmine. No, we're serious. Well, we're not. We never are. You know that by now, right?
And then there's the Velominati's take on having a sense of humour on a bicycle (no really), and a chock-to-the-brim kitbag which sees a welcome return to wanton spending. Well, welcome if you're a listener. Not if you're someone Raya and Stephen owes money to.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Raya and Stephen plough head down into show 34; and it's absolutely ram-packed.
The competitive nature runs high as we contest just how many foreign climes both of our hosts have cycled in, and how that differs. And this leads into Stephen's recent overseas rides - on the Russian border, no less.
And who let the dogs out? And what do you do when they're out? And when they attack you - while you're still riding a bike? We find out the essential information... too late for Stephen do anything about it.
Plus the Pod becomes strangely useful as we review the UK's most popular all-carbon wheels. Safe, strong, light, and fast? That's the (carbon) clincher.
And as ever, there's a velominati, which this time sees our duo actually arging for and against it. Those heady days of both agreeing seem very distant.
Plus a big interview with Anthony from Kudos Wheels about how people can outsource their major components. When you listen, it'll make perfect sese.
Show 34. It's a long one, and there's lots to get through. There's a headwind, but we're pretending not to notice. We'll get through this. SHUT UP LEGS.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Sponsored by Kudos Wheels - www.kudos-wheels.co.uk
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3
Raya and Stephen embark on a biggy: show 33, in which we get the inside track on the highs, lows, and disasters of Raya's inaugural Ironman World Champs.
It's not all transitions and exertions though; the weather, the food, the pre-race night out (yes really!) and the nightmare of a provincial airport trying to assign baggage and bike boxes to 4000 visiting athletes is laid bare for all. Raya holds no punches.
On top of that, the Pod delves deeper into the acceptable weight doping in Zwift (it's good cheating, trust us) and the do's and don't do's of virtul racing.
And as ever, there's a velominati that our duo agree to disagree on (before agreeing on) that goes down various routes.
PLUS! Two unexpected bonuses; news of a new member of the podcast team (yes really!) and Stephen gives some actually decent practical advice for cyclists. Remember this day, it's monumental.
Probably in the best 33 shows we've ever done. We're saying that now as we forgot on the Pod.
Also listen to the end for a hidden bonus.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Sponsored by Kudos Wheels - www.kudos-wheels.co.uk
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen head to show 32 with a head full of tech. It's app day - and thanks to the listeners, we give you the lowdown on the essential apps that any budding cyclist (with a smartphone!) can't be without.
And it's a welcome return for the kit bag, as Stephen gets Raya to try out his latest purchase. WARNING! Contains squeezing and suppressed swearing.
News: Technology is making us (more) addicted to exercise, especially cycling. Agree/Disagree? Watch an item failed to be discussed in a balanced fashion by two self-diagnosed obsessives.
On top of that, the Velominati takes us on a wayward route from socks into... well, let's just say a part of the body that socks won't fit over. This episode isn't called 'apps and baps' for nothing.
So be warned. This show contains cleavage. A lot of it.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen dive into show 31 with Raya on the brink - literally hours - of heading to the Ironman World Championships.
Nerves and preparation - mental, physical, and emotional, are all discussed in detail. Seriously in places, and trivially in others. Of course. It's the Cyclist Pod. We can't take any serious topic and not turn it into playground banter.
On top of that, the Velominati throws our two presenters into their toughest decision yet. Add to the mix a scenic turn in which the Cyclist Pod declares the future of 'winter bikes' could be over. It's the sort of compelling argument we make instead of answering the question in hand.
But nestling amongst all this are some actual tips on making sure your hard work for your big day of cycling isn't wasted.
And speaking of wasted, how to save a paralytic friend is a surprise tip in our 'What's happening on Strava' segment. Stephen & Strava & a non-porous pavement to the rescue.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen are proud to bring you show 30 of the Cyclist Pod - featuring Gordon Ramsay, talking to us from the London Triathlon. It's brilliant, funny, shocking, and a bit sweary. Come on, it's Gordon Ramsay, what did you expect?
On top of that coup, we discuss motorvation. The biggest barrier to regular cycling? We think so. Tips, techniques and suggestions are thrown around the studio in the vague attempt to keep you cycling when you just. Can't. Be. Arsed.
Aaaaand there's the velominati as usual, today reworking 'what comes up, must come down' into 'what comes down, must go up." A glimpse into Raya's Kamikaze life as a downhill ski racer is on show here - not to be missed.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen dig deep for show 29 as they peer into the soul and chat about what cycling does to improve it.
That's not to say the nuts and bolts of cycling aren't reduced to the ... nuts and bolts. We discuss the evil of punctures and how Raya blew out a weekend just to be good at changing tyres. No, genuinely.
Geraint Thomas goes all triumphant with his 'Welsh homecoming'. and as ever, there’s a kitbag featuring a way commuters can double the value of their bikes, and a Velominati that is essential listening for all cyclists.
But most of all, we look into the soul. Cycling - how does it benefit your very being? Physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, we do our best to investigate and not trivialise things. Shhh at the back.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen continue the theme of show 27 with their post-mortem of RideLondon: when weather makes riding, erm, 'challenging'.
A brief chat, as ever, snowballs into something more ridiculous, profound, and hilarious as our hosts' attempts to disseminate wtf happened on that ridiculous storm-ravaged day in July. Suffice to say, if you've seen the pictures, you'll find out why Stephen went blind and Raya was wearing a bin bag. Genuinely.
Plus - of course - the Velominati, where Rule#9 gets a grilling (and cheerleading), and a welcome return for both The Bike Price is Right (Raya has picked an absolute cracker) and one of the most dramatic and unpredictable You Drive Like a Dick we've ever featured. It could be a car driver, a truck driver, or the cyclist's fault. We still don't know.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen take cycling podcasts to new heights (sideways ones) with a delve into the world of Extreme Cycling: That is, cycling where, how, and when people don't expect it.
So in an exclusive interview, we return to Podcast Studios (alright, alright, Raya's London flat) where we catch up with war photojournalist Finbarr O'Reilly. Finbarr has been in the frontline of some of the world's most dangerous places, capturing the images that would provide the real shock and awe of world conflicts. And while there, he's been cycling. That's right. When his Strava shows a strange kink, he's just gone round a landmine. (And when it stops abruptly, he's just hit one.)
The art of the bicylce selfie and taking moody mid-ride pictures on a smartphone is revealed (his are SPECTACULAR), and also discussed is how the bicycle is used in world conflicts; as seen by Finbarr, first hand. And on a serious note (we can do one of those, honestly) his path to cycling and how it helped his post-conflict depression is explored. It's a fascinating listen.
And if nothing else he has a beautiful Irish/Canadian accent. Put the pod on for that alone. It's like pouring maple syrup onto porridge.
Plus - of course - the Velominati gets all particular on frame adornments (what?), our presenters immerse in some heftily near-the-knuckle banter and Stephen smugly explains how he has saved his riding tech, with superglue. This probably won't end well.*
- it doesn't
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen wipe away the steam droplets of Show 25 and return to much more serious cycling matters: food. Though 'serious' isn't something we do well, we give it a bash.
Firstly, we dive into the subject of what keeps us going on long rides, so the pod goes all Masterchef as a range of cereal bars are placed in front of Raya and she has to - by palate alone - determine the contents. That's right - a vision and taste test on an audio format. Remember where you were when you heard this award winning podcasting. We're reinventing the rules, mofos.
And then the serious dial is whacked up to maximum as top sports nutritionist Will Girling - the food and diet man behind two top Cycling teams (and other top sportspeople) shares his knowledge and secrets about the foods that power people to the top. Also, some superfoods are slapped down and some urban myths are debunked. It's essential listening.
Also! Raya's super-keen eyes spot a big move from Stephen, to fitness's 'dark side'. He wasn't going to talk about it, but under Raya's insistent questioning, he has no choice.
As ever, there's all your Pod favourites, including a Velominati which threatens to penetrate the heart of this very podcast. That's right, it's a rule, that if followed, would render this the very last podcast we ever record. Probably worth listening just to see if that's the case.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen decide to take their off-air chat to on-air, and we ask the big one - the one that other podcasts aren't asking; sex. Are cyclists sexy? Those clothes? Those positions? The riding double entendres? And the strength and the stamina - is that helping? It's no holds barred stuff.
Move the kids into the drawing room, thank you.
On top (on top! Stop it) of that, there's the Velominati attacking sartoiral decisions, an update on the Geneva triathlon, some kitbag news, and all the excitement in the run up to RideLondon.
But that's not why you are downloading this, is it. Ohhh no.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen decamp for the first time from Podcast Towers (Stephen's house in Sussex) and head to Podcast Studios (Raya's house in London) for this first-ever city-based podcast.
And like recently arrived Russian Oligarch, we whack out the cash as we peruse the bicycle exotica that is the world's most expensive bicycles. Are they the pinnacle of technology? Are they the bicycles from history that money can't buy (though it can?). Or are they normal bikes that someone has glued some diamonds to? SPOILER: Bit of everything, mate.
To make sure there's some purpose to all this, we discuss how a cyclist could best spend their money, and venture into the world of bespoke bicycles, and our feature-length interview sees us joined by bike building team Ian and Jane from North Road cycles. Though that interview happened in Manchester. We have very much been on the North Road.
And with our city-focused flavour to this pod, we despair at lethal road quality, come up with a training plan based on travelcard zones, ponder the futility of overtaking cyclists in a city centre, and delve into how evolution will change bicycle commuters. We go all Darwin on yo ass.
On top of that, there's a Velominati which switches focus from cycling to coffee (set pompousity levels to max), and a news-meets-kitbag mashup between Apple and Rapha that might require you to remortgage just to enter the shop. Just us well Raya has gone and got herself a 3rd job then.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen, aware that the cycling world is awash with the annual highlight that is the Tour de France, are doing the podcast NO OTHER CYCLING PODCAST DARE DO... we ask what the fck is the Tour de France, does anyone give a sht, how the hell is this fun, and how do you even enjoy watching it. Yeah, that's right, we go there. We saunter onto cycling's holiest ground and set up a chemical toilet on it.
And to provide balance, insight, and a modicum of professionalism about proceedings, avid Tour watcher Adrian Jenner (AJ) provides us with all the tips needed to make this fortnight of televisual delights something you can (gulp) enjoy.
As ever, there's a Velominati which in this show might actually advocate the bonk. We aren't sure. Worth listening to simply for Raya getting her words mixed up and effectively turning the podcast into an audio Tinder ad.
Also, in cycling news, when is a pot hole not a pot hole? We have the answer.
Plus, your usual mix of chat, laughs, and rudeness. And all this just 5 days since the last pod! You've never known such a deluge of content! Tuck in!
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen are back after a mini(mega!) break. In Pod 22, Stephen squashes his inner chauvinist by giving Raya the reins to the show. And today, Raya introduces a triathlon themed episode, discussing the route into the sport, who does it, why you should do it, what the appeal is to cyclists and frankly, why anyone should bother. Stephen remains sceptical.
And in an in-depth Velominati, we discuss body temperatures, circulation, and why making cycling difficult for the sake of just making it difficult is solely in the arena of dickheads. No, it is.
PLUS! A cougar attack. A fatal one. On a cyclist. It's sad, and Stephen and Raya attempt to discuss it sensitively, and ... mostly they fail. If a sensitive handling of upsetting issues is important to you, this is the podcast to skip.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen tie up a thousand loose ends in this turbo-powered discussion pod, where the main topic becomes who, from the perspective of cyclists, are the worst users of the roads today. Is it van drivers? Lorry drivers? Car drivers? Pedestrians? Other cyclists? You'll have to listen to find out. And this is all down to a You Drive Like a Dick that happend to both of the Pod's presenters.
On top of that, we end up discussing the shortfalls of the wearables and cycling tech out there right now, and why Garmin is both the king, and doomed. That's right, doomed. If you listen, you'll agree.
Also: the cycling mid life crises. Why the cycle and not the motorcycle? Again, with little research and minimal balance, we dive in with opinions that you'll love and despair of in equal measure.
And... it's excuse time, as we hear what happened to Raya at her latest Iroman (dramatic) and what happened to Stephen at his recent 3 day Sportive (pathetic).
AND ON TOP OF ALL THIS - It's a welcome return for the Bike Price is Right, another Crowdfunder bin-fest, and the Velominati has definitely been out on the shandy because it's fighting talk. Phew! Pace yourself, this is a big one today.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
In Show 20, Raya and Stephen discuss the thing they spend most of their life doing; training. From making it fun to making it worthwhile, they do their best to make another 'useful' podcast without diverting into anecdotes, double entendres, and laughing fits.
And in our biggest interview yet, we pin down the GC G-man: Geraint Thomas is (lightly) cross examined on everything from his Tour de France hopes to what he will do when he retires, arm wrestling professional rugby players, his favourite crash, and what he can and can't do on a stag do. Oh, and stuff he's nicked from previous teams. If you used to employ Geraint, we'd appreciate if you didn't listen.
And in a feature-packed episode we get to the bottom of Raya's recent high-speed injury and hospitalisation, and a unique Velominati that unbelievably, Stephen doesn't think goes far enough.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen are proud to present their first 'pocket-sized' episode; Show 19 of the Cyclist Pod.
Our main subject is the Build - otherwise known as Stephen's Genesis Equilibrium. A set of highly skilled hands take his almost build project and guide it into a road ready mile muncher. It's like a new baby being born.
On top of that, our hosts discuss cycling sunglasses (and the skill required to remove and replace them mid-ride), people who lost their job (and got taken to court!) because of something they put on Strava (not kidding), and a special You Drive Like a Dick where it turns into assault. Get your Camomile tea ready.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen are proud to present their biggest Podcast yet (save THIS for a super-long summer ride). It's Show 18 and it features the Cyclist Pod's first 'team day out' - at the Lee Valley Velo Park, courtesy of Cyclist.co.uk, having a track day where they got to try the latest greatest bicycles from the big manufacturers.
And also the Pod features an in-depth interview with 3 of the Cyclist.co.uk key personnel, who explain the rationale behind these incredible days and how cycling journalism - and purchasing - has been transformed even in just the last few years.
Don't worry, this Pod is more than just two excited schoolchildren squealing about getting to ride super bikes. There's surprises everywhere as the bikes you thought they'd overlook astonish them, while the bikes you'd think they'd love left them cold.
That said, Raya needed a 44cm bike with 700c wheels, and seeing as not all manufacturers bring child bicycles to a high-status day like this, you can expect to hear some increasingly frustrated noises from Raya. It's worth the listen.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen haven't forgotten you, promise! Show 17 launches with a parade of trumpets (sadly not audible on pod) heralding a return to form, and a journey to the great outdoors; as we discuss that most exciting and logistically arduous of missions: Cycling overseas.
Sadly for Raya, this means a fairly hefty cross-examination as to what her drinking exploits were on Tri camp. It's worth listening to, unless you're Raya, in which case, you might want to skip this.
On top of that we squeeze in (sort of. It's our 2nd longest pod ever) news about a genuine revolution in cycling accessories. We're not kidding. Don't blame us if this podcast leaves you £250 worse off; it already has us.
And naturally we don't leave you regulars out, with you 'park' like a dick, the build, a burglar-unfriendly Strava warning and a Velominati which pitches metric vs imperial. Bring your bike pump and wield it like a flail; this show is asking you outside for a fight.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen return a little late with show 16; a pod full of regular features for our regular listeners (we love you!) and an introductory pod for those of you looking to get into cycling for just the measly sum of £500 (we will love you!).
And even though pro cycling news tends to be something that happens to 'other podcasts', we look at the Tour de Yorkshire, from an angle nobody else did, for reasons that will soon become both apparent and highly facetious.
Plus: Foot news. Don't ask. The more you know, the less you want to know.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Dvorak's Symphony No. 9 in E Minor c/o Musopen
All above licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
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Raya and Stephen return a day after the bank holiday, with a special edition pod where the main topic is dictated to almost entirely by the listeners, as the Cyclist Pod addresses all their burning (and not so flammable) questions.
And as well as demolishing 14 shows worth of unanswered and unopened mail and messages, our hosts also tackle the trivial subject of how the hell magazines take those standless photo of bicycles, and the less trivial subject of fear, and how it is the ultimate barrier to every level of cyclist.
Plus You Drive Like a Dick, an ever-so tenuous build, and a super-contentious Velominati. And Raya laughing for a full 15 seconds, without a break, and without falling over. It's a skill.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen lay their flag on the rocky outcrop on this, Show 14 of the Cyclist Pod.
A plethora of subjects are discussed and dissected, including some good news about Ride London, some bad (perpetual) news about the job of booking a bicycle onto a long distance train. And Running. Which is, we're sorry to say, shit.
Thankfully a balanced view is provided by runner and comedian Rob Deering who doesn't think it is. Despite admitting to nearly everything we said.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen return to episode 13 of the Cyclist Pod podcast with an embarressment of riches in talking points.
Topics include how/why to watch cycling on TV (neither Stephen nor Raya are convinced), a possible solution in the paucity of womens' prize money in modern sports, an unashamedly spiritual Velominati, and assorted news from the cycling and triathlon worlds, that we'll try to keep not too dark. Light and fluffy, light and fluffy.
All this is wrapped up in a celebration of the Sun finally rearing it's head in the UK in 2018. Whoop! What better condition could exist to start the reclamation of the MAMIL - the subject of our main topic today (and a feature film showing/showed/re-released near you soon!)
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Classical piece by Grieg, Edvard; Musopen Symphony Orchestra [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
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After a short break, Raya and Stephen return to the Pod refreshed, recharged and ready to tackle the side of cycling the other podcasts (quite rightly) don't bother with.
Today's big show features a unashamed bike crash of topics, with the discussion veering from Raya trash-talking maximum bike speed with a 5yr old, when a bicycle resembles a biplane, a community minded Triathlon project with Brownlee brother access, and how cycling can take 60 (SIXTY) years off your life.
And the Bike Build section required so many tools we feel duty bound to let you know they aren't being stored in the podcast overnight.
And... our main topic. Well, you'll have to find out for yourself. But a social occasion has left Stephen having to become a bicycle. This will make more sense when you listen to the podcast, though there's a very big chance you won't thank us.
This show is definitely in the top 12 shows we've done, though it could be 'the worst' - because we can guarantee the absolute worst 'You Drive Like a D!ck' we've ever featured. It's basically attempted murder. Keep the Prozac handy.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen are reunited on the Podcast again, and carefully overlooking Raya's food-stained clothing, dive into the social and fun side of cycling once again.
Today's big show topic is Ultra Endurance; that is, riding until you just can't go any further; and with that in mind, Show 11's guest is the brilliant eBay and Instagram star Laura Scott; the unashamed Queen of not getting off her bike.
On top of that, an extended news section starts by taking actual news (and finding the cycling angle), and ends with an April 1st-worthy 'doping' story that leaves Stephen with an actual solution to the drug epidemic in pro-cycling.
And as for the contents of Stephen's velominati-flaunting kitbag, the cycling style police have issued an urgent warrant for his arrest.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen get some big (and good!) news about a forthcoming event this year, discuss both of their recent cycling-related tattoos (no really) and then dive into the big 10+ recommended Sportives of 2018 that every leisure cyclist should aim to do (well, at least one of them!)
Also Stephen hits a milestone in his rehab from his big cycling accident, and Raya divulges the (relative) debauchery that capped off her first ever tri-camp.
Plus: a ridiculously tenuous cycle-related kickstarter, an utterly petrifying YDLAD and some shark-based triathlon news.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen steam through a jam-packed pod that tackles that stickiest of situations; asking people to contribute to your charity bike ride (when that's your favourite thing to do in the world). And in our featured interview; comedian, presenter, West End star and Harry Hill sidekick Charlie Baker is grilled about his love of cycling, which in a neat piece of (clincher wheel shaped) circularity, includes details of his fascinating war-and-genealogy based cycling challenge of 2018.
Also on this Pod; a self-charging bike light (honestly), a completely unbelievable (as heavily spun) statistic about city cycling, a cheeky Bristolian who stole back her stolen bike (go girl), a Triathlete nun (amen), and a near-death You Drive Like a D*ck that has both Raya and Stephen squealing like petrified children.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen tackle that most arduous of cycling challenges; climbing. The tips, mistakes, science and benefits are discussed fully with only the expertise and accuracy that Stephen & Raya don't actually have. Also; Stephen uses a mixture of misogyny and idiocy to explain getting lost on his first Sportive of the year. Tag onto that a kickstarter project that is genuinely desirable (once you get around the £400 price tag), Raya delivering the feel-good cycling news you've probably missed and our quickest (and therefore most breathtaking) You Drive Like a D*ck.
And finally, in a cave-in to the tsunami of other cycling podcasts out there, Stephen gives us a 30 second synopsis of the news from the pro cycling world. It's uninformed, overexcitable, offensive, and breathtakingly brief, which is an accusation he's got used to over the years.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
In another special feature-length episode, Raya and Stephen tackle the most famous rule of cycling - Velominati's rule 12; that all bicycle fans must own one more bicycle than they currently do. Is this necessary? Who does this? What countries are the most bike-mad? And the biggest question of all - what is 'N'? And with this fresh in their minds, S&R talk to actor / TV presenter / 90's Saturday morning star Malcolm Jeffries about his bikes, how he mixes theatre and racing, and his quite spectacular injuries and mountain-based dry-heaving.
On top of that, Raya and Stephen still manage to ponder 'pink' cycling, the horror of hire bikes, holidays that masquerade as training camps and some bewildering news thanks to Colnago that has Stephen imploding.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
In this special double-length episode, Raya and Stephen talk to Olympic gold medallist and world champion Katie Archibald, yet still find time to sandwich the interview between a feast of cycling features; including unsettling news from the world of Strava, a catacylsmic kitbag, and a fairly forceful argument that Garmin bike computers - you know, those things that everyone has apparently -are completely pointless.
Oh, and Stephen and Raya laugh like a drain in possibly their funniest - and therefore most facetious - episode yet.
On top of all this, there's the Velominati, TWO dips into the bike arm of Kickstarter, News, Triathlon World, and the best feel-good You Drive Like a D*ck yet.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen catch up with all two-wheel based goings on in this extended episode, where they delve into some Zwiftery, triathlon news and general idiocy. Fashionably late to the cyclocross party, our feature today has us talking from Cyclist Pod HQ to the voice of live UK events Dan Jarvis, while he hides in his car from his cleaning lady.
As ever there's the Velominati, the Kitbag, News, a (literally) hairy The Bike Price is Right, Triathlon World, and You Drive Like a D*ck.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
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Raya and Stephen wilfully ignore all Chris Froome based idiocy and concentrate on something much more pressing; why women aren't cycling anywhere near as much as men. They do their best to keep it serious, honestly.
As ever there's the Velominati, the Kitbag, News, The Bike Price is Right, Triathlon World, What's happening on Strava, and You Drive Like a D*ck.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen continue to eschew the world of the pro cyclist and concentrate on the fun and social side, by drilling into some quite ingenious - and ludicrous - winter cycling tips.
And there's the Velominati, the Kitbag, News, The Bike Price is Right, Triathlon World, What's happening on Strava, and You Drive Like a D*ck.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Stephen and Raya lock horns in a wildly difficult Bike Price is Right, and struggle to agree with another ridiculous Velominati rule. And they talk to cyclist and top car journo Ben Oliver about some genuinely exciting developments in the car world that will have a direct effect on all cyclists.
And as ever, the regular features, such as the Kitbag, News, What's happening on Strava, and more public shaming with You Drive Like a D*ck.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Music 'Zazie' c/o Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Raya and Stephen introduce the podcast and make a year of cycling and training promises that might be tricky to keep.
And they embark on all their regular features, such as the Velominati, the Kitbag, News, The Bike Price is Right, Triathlon World, What's happening on Strava, and the public shaming section entitled You Drive Like a D*ck.
The Cyclist Pod (c) Stephen Grant and Raya Hubbell
www.cyclistpod.com
Zazie Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/