We delve into the MTB world, talking to athletes, trainers, mechanics, brands and more, to bring you all the best insight that will inform and inspire you, and ...
Ellie Hulsebosch – Setting Your Sights on the Top Step
Today we’re joined by 2024 breakthrough star, Ellie Hulsebosch. Ellie made waves as a first year junior, qualifying first three times in a row, before taking her first win in Val di Sole in style, as she put down the fastest women’s time of the day. But Ellie's journey isn't just about podium finishes. It's a raw, honest story of relentless dedication, and the grit required to compete at the highest level. In this candid conversation, Ellie pulls back the curtain on her racing program, revealing the challenges, aspirations, and strategic thinking that are shaping her path to the top. This conversation is both inspiring and enlightening, showcasing the bright future ahead for Ellie and the sport. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Ellie Hulsebosch.
You can also watch this episode on YouTube here.
You can follow Ellie on Instagram @elliehulsebosch.
Podcast Stuff
Magura
If you want to win a pair of Magura’s new Gustav Pro brakes, then head over to my instagram and find the Gustav Pro post where Danny MacAskill shows what the brakes can do on some crazy slabs. Make sure you follow @downtimepodcast and @magura_bike on instagram and comment #sizematters on the post before midnight GMT on 7th December when we will choose a winner at random.
You can see more of the new Gustav Pro over at Magura.com.
Extract Coffee
You can elevate your coffee experience with 20% off at Extract Coffee until the end of 2024. Extract are on a mission to make coffee better. I’d recommend starting off with either their Original blend, or Dr Strangelove Espresso, but there’s a whole host of options over at extractcoffee.co.uk to choose from. They’ll send it either as whole bean or ground for your brewing method of choice and there are brewing guides on the website to help you make the perfect cup. So if you want to treat yourself or those special people in your life, you can head over to extractcoffee.co.uk and use the code 'DOWNTIME' at the checkout. Please note, this offer is only valid in the UK.
Patreon
I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here.
Merch
If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.
Newsletter
If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter.
Follow Us
Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments.
For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast.
Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there.
Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes
Photo - Sven Martin
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1:12:19
2025 World Cup Changes and 2024 Highlights With Misspent Summers
Misspent Summers just launched their downhill and enduro yearbooks, so we thought it would be a good time to catch up and chat about some of our favourite memories from the 2024 season, as well as to look forward to 2025 and talk about some of the changes that are coming to the sport. Find out if we understand the rule changes. Hear our thoughts on three person podiums, the move to no protection, and the jeopardy created by the restriction on team numbers. The guys also tackle the big question, will enduro be ok? There’s lots to dig into. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Ben and James from Misspent Summers.
You can also watch this episode on YouTube here.
You can get your hands on Misspent Summers' amazing yearbooks here.
Podcast Stuff
Magura
If you want to win a pair of Magura’s new Gustav Pro brakes, then head over to my instagram and find the Gustav Pro post where Danny MacAskill shows what the brakes can do on some crazy slabs. Make sure you follow @downtimepodcast and @magura_bike on instagram and comment #sizematters on the post before midnight GMT on 7th December when we will choose a winner at random.
You can see more of the new Gustav Pro over at Magura.com.
Extract Coffee
You can elevate your coffee experience with 20% off at Extract Coffee until the end of 2024. Extract are on a mission to make coffee better. I’d recommend starting off with either their Original blend, or Dr Strangelove Espresso, but there’s a whole host of options over at extractcoffee.co.uk to choose from. They’ll send it either as whole bean or ground for your brewing method of choice and there are brewing guides on the website to help you make the perfect cup. So if you want to treat yourself or those special people in your life, you can head over to extractcoffee.co.uk and use the code 'DOWNTIME' at the checkout. Please note, this offer is only valid in the UK.
Patreon
I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here.
Merch
If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.
Newsletter
If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter.
Follow Us
Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments.
For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast.
Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there.
Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes
Photo - Misspent Summers
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1:40:47
Vero Sandler – Making History at Red Bull Rampage
Today, we’re thrilled to catch-up with freeride mountain biking sensation Vero Sandler, who recently made history at the inaugural women’s Red Bull Rampage. Vero will share her incredible journey, from navigating the intense selection process to assembling the ultimate dig crew for this monumental event. Join us as she discusses the rigorous training required for tackling some of the most challenging jumps, drops, and exposure in mountain biking. We’ll delve into how she prepared for the massive challenges of Rampage and what it took to carve her dream line down the rugged mountainsides of Utah. Additionally, we’ll hear about Vero's exciting Backyard Battle build with her parter Sam, her experiences living off-grid, and much more. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Vero Sandler.
You can also watch this episode on YouTube here.
You can follow Vero on Instagram @veroniquesandler.
Podcast Stuff
Extract Coffee
You can elevate your coffee experience with 20% off at Extract Coffee until the end of 2024. Extract are on a mission to make coffee better. I’d recommend starting off with either their Original blend, or Dr Strangelove Espresso, but there’s a whole host of options over at extractcoffee.co.uk to choose from. They’ll send it either as whole bean or ground for your brewing method of choice and there are brewing guides on the website to help you make the perfect cup. So if you want to treat yourself or those special people in your life, you can head over to extractcoffee.co.uk and use the code 'DOWNTIME' at the checkout. Please note, this offer is only valid in the UK.
Patreon
I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here.
Merch
If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.
Newsletter
If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter.
Follow Us
Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments.
For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast.
Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there.
Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes
Photo - @tomb_photography
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1:00:09
Lachie Stevens-McNab – What Actually Goes Into a Breakthrough Season
Today, we’re joined by one of 2024’s breakout stars, Lachie Stevens-McNab. After narrowly missing the win in Poland, claiming third in Leogang, and finishing just 0.06 seconds from victory in Mont-Sainte-Anne, Lachie has become one of the year’s most talked-about riders. But his journey didn't start here. A three-time BMX world champion, Lachie transitioned to mountain biking, quickly making his mark. Despite setbacks from serious back-to-back injuries, he’s finally hitting his stride this season. Hear how Lachie pushed through challenges, how Loic Bruni’s influence shaped his path, and what it took for him to break into the top tier. There’s plenty to learn from this laidback rising star. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Lachie Stevens-McNab.
You can also watch this episode on YouTube here.
You can follow Lachie on Instagram @lachiestevensmcnab.
Podcast Stuff
Extract Coffee
You can elevate your coffee experience with 20% off at Extract Coffee until the end of 2024. Extract are on a mission to make coffee better. I’d recommend starting off with either their Original blend, or Dr Strangelove Espresso, but there’s a whole host of options over at extractcoffee.co.uk to choose from. They’ll send it either as whole bean or ground for your brewing method of choice and there are brewing guides on the website to help you make the perfect cup. So if you want to treat yourself or those special people in your life, you can head over to extractcoffee.co.uk and use the code 'DOWNTIME' at the checkout. Please note, this offer is only valid in the UK.
Patreon
I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here.
Merch
If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.
Newsletter
If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter.
Follow Us
Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments.
For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast.
Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there.
Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes
Photo - Sven Martin
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1:41:37
From Beginner to World Cup MTB Racer: Sian A’Hern’s Journey
Today, we’re diving into an incredible story of resilience and drive with YT Mob’s own Sian A’Hern. From a total skeptic about mountain biking to racing at Nationals - and then World Cups - all within a couple of years, Sian’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. But it hasn’t been all smooth sailing; she’s faced multiple injuries, each time coming back stronger. We explore her mental strategies, the tools she relies on to stay focused, and how she’s overcoming the feeling of getting too comfortable since achieving her dream of making it onto a factory team. Sian’s outlook on life and bikes is contagious, and there's a lot to learn from her story. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Sian A'Hern.
You can also watch this episode on YouTube here.
You can follow Sian on Instagram @sianahern.
Podcast Stuff
Patreon
I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here.
Merch
If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.
Newsletter
If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter.
Follow Us
Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments.
For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast.
Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there.
Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes
Photo - Rick Schubert
We delve into the MTB world, talking to athletes, trainers, mechanics, brands and more, to bring you all the best insight that will inform and inspire you, and help you ride your bike faster, have more fun, and find out about more about the characters behind the sport that we love.
New Zealand