Asphalt and Aprons

An adhoc episode as the lads have been busy with charity rides etc and poor donkey needs a break.

Trog and Donkey talk more on Masonic Riding Groups and the Biking Community and their similarities and the similar principles behind freemasonry.

In this episode we get a chance to find out more about Donkey and his journey not only into Freemasonry but into Masonic Motorbike Riding.

We here how he made his first masonic steps, the preconceptions, whats he enjoys and what he doesn't.

but perhaps the most important question that might be answered is - why is he called Donkey??

🎙️ EPISODE 14 – BLOOD BIKES SCOTLAND: RIDERS HELPING SAVE LIVES 🏍️🩸

In Episode 14 of Asphalt & Aprons, Trog & Donkey are joined by Joe Cairney, volunteer rider with Blood Bikes Scotland, to find out more about this remarkable organisation and the people behind the hi-vis.

Joe takes us behind the scenes to explain what Blood Bikes Scotland does, how the service supports the NHS completely free of charge, and the dedication of the volunteers who give up their own time to help keep this vital service on the road.

We chat about what it takes to become a Blood Bikes volunteer rider, what a typical shift can involve, the bikes and equipment they use, and some of Joe's own experiences out on the road.

We also hear about the incredible support Blood Bikes Scotland receives from communities across the country, including the recent Everest Challenge, which brought volunteers, supporters and fundraisers together to help raise vital funds.

It's a fascinating conversation about motorcycles, volunteering, community and using something you love to make a genuine difference to other people.

Whether you're a biker, already familiar with Blood Bikes, or you've always wondered what those distinctive hi-vis motorcycles are doing out on Scotland's roads, this episode is well worth a listen.

🎧 Listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts
📺 Watch on YouTube

Asphalt & Aprons – A Podcast for the Curious

#AsphaltAndAprons #BloodBikesScotland #BloodBikes #JoeCairney #TrogAndDonkey #RidersHelpingSaveLives #NHSScotland #VolunteerRiders #ScottishBikers #MotorcycleCommunity #BikersHelpingOthers #Volunteering #SupportLocal #MotorcyclePodcast

In this powerful episode of Asphalt & Aprons, Trog & Donkey sit down with Ian Hounsome from Andy's Man Club, the UK charity dedicated to ending the stigma surrounding men's mental health through the simple message: "It's Okay To Talk."

Together, they explore the importance of friendship, community and having the courage to speak openly when life becomes challenging. Ian shares the story behind Andy's Man Club, how the charity has grown into a nationwide movement, and why creating safe spaces for men to talk can genuinely save lives.

The conversation also touches on motorcycles, Freemasonry, brotherhood and the role they can all play in supporting mental wellbeing. Honest, uplifting and at times deeply moving, this episode is a reminder that no one has to face life's struggles alone.

Whether you're a rider, a Freemason, someone who has experienced difficult times, or simply want to hear an inspiring conversation, this is an episode that will stay with you long after the ride is over.

In this episode we discuss:

• The story behind Andy's Man Club
• Breaking the stigma around men's mental health
• The importance of friendship and community
• Why "It's Okay To Talk" matters
• Brotherhood on and off the road
• How small conversations can make a big difference

If this episode resonates with you, please share it with someone who might need to hear it. One conversation really can change a life.

Asphalt & Aprons – Real Roads. Real People. Real Conversations.

In Episode 12, we're trying something a little different – it's our first ever video podcast!

Join Trog and Donkey as they sit down with two experienced motorcyclists who have recently returned from an unforgettable adventure through the Picos de Europa in northern Spain.

They share how they planned the trip, the roads that left the biggest impression, the highs and challenges of touring abroad, and plenty of practical tips for anyone thinking about taking their own motorcycle adventure across Europe.

As always, the conversation takes a few unexpected turns, with stories, laughs, and a few nuggets of wisdom picked up along the way.

Hopefully you're not just listening to this one – if all has gone to plan, you'll be able to watch our very first video episode too!

🎙️ Episode 11 – Our Adventures, Our Stories 🏍️

Two very different rides. One shared passion.

In Episode 11, Trog and Donkey catch up after heading in completely different directions. Trog recounts an unforgettable tour of Scotland's legendary NC500 with Karen, continuing on to Orkney to visit family before travelling back down the stunning east coast.

Expect stories of breathtaking scenery, unforgettable roads, wild camping, coffee stops, and everything that makes motorcycle touring so addictive.

Meanwhile, Donkey shares his first-ever experience at the Adventure Bike Rider Festival at Ragley Hall.

From test rides and the latest adventure bikes to camping, live entertainment, gear, gadgets, and meeting fellow riders from across the UK, he talks about why the festival exceeded all expectations.

Join the lads as they compare two completely different motorcycle adventures, swap a few laughs, share the highs (and a few challenges), and discuss why it's not about where you ride—it's about the people you meet and the memories you make.

Same podcast. Different rides. Same mission.

🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Amazon Music and wherever you get your podcasts.

#AsphaltAndAprons #Episode11 #AdventureBikeRider #ABRFestival #ABRFestival2026 #NC500 #NorthCoast500 #Scotland #ScottishTourism #VisitScotland #AdventureMotorcycling #MotorcycleTouring #AdventureBikes #TriumphTiger900 #BMWGS #CharleyBoorman #Cardo #CardoSystems #ZeroFit #WildCamping #RoadTrip #MotorcycleLife #BikerCommunity #RideMore #Podcast #MotorbikeAdventures #TrogAndDonkey #FreemasonsOnTheRoad

Well, the boys made it to Episode 10 – and it's all thanks to our listeners, supporters, and fantastic guests who have joined us on the journey so far.

In this milestone episode, Trog and Donkey take a look back at the first nine episodes of Asphalt & Aprons, sharing their thoughts on the conversations, the laughs, the lessons learned, and some of their favourite moments along the way.

From Freemasonry and motorcycles to community, charity, friendship, and everything in between, the lads reflect on what's worked, what surprised them, and where they hope to take the podcast next.

Whether you've been with us since Episode 1 or you're just joining the ride, this is a chance to look back on the journey so far and get a glimpse of what's coming down the road.

So grab a brew, pull up a chair, and join Trog and Donkey for Episode 10 of Asphalt & Aprons – a Masonic podcast for the road.

Episode 9 of Asphalt & Aprons sees Trog & Donkey sit down with RWM Mark McCluskey of Lodge St Leonard Loanhead & Lasswade No. 580 for a fascinating conversation about leadership, tradition, and modern Freemasonry.

Known across Midlothian and well respected throughout the west, Mark has earned a reputation as one of the most active and progressive Masters around. Passionate about promoting Freemasonry both inside and outside the lodge room, he shares his thoughts on bringing fresh ideas into the Craft while still maintaining the traditions and values that Freemasonry is built upon.

The episode explores lodge culture, brotherhood, attracting new members, supporting existing brethren, and the importance of keeping Freemasonry visible and relevant in today’s world.

This is an honest and engaging discussion about balancing tradition with progression, and the role a modern Master can play in shaping the future of his lodge and the wider Craft.

This episode sees the lads sit down with well-known local biker Street Bob Brown for a relaxed and honest chat about motorcycle life, biker culture, friendships, and the sense of community that comes from life on two wheels.

From stories on the road to the characters you meet along the way, Bob shares his passion for biking and why the lifestyle means so much to so many people. The conversation covers everything from camaraderie and loyalty within the biking scene to the freedom, escapism, and connections that motorcycles can bring.

As always, Trog and Donkey keep things informal, humorous, and real, with another episode full of laughs, stories, and genuine conversation. Whether you’re a lifelong biker, new to the scene, or simply enjoy hearing authentic people share their experiences, this is an episode not to miss.

So stick the kettle on, grab a brew, and join the lads for another ride through the worlds of bikes, brotherhood, and beyond on Asphalt & Aprons.