Bad Beard

This episode of the Bad Beard Podcast captures a conversation between guest Karl Allen-Muncey—better known online as @zenmotorcyclemaintenance—and host Sam Schneider, also known as Bad Beard. Recorded live at the very first MotoCraft Show at Base 31 in Picton, Ontario, Canada, the discussion dives into Karl’s presentation on the mental health benefits of motorcycling.

Karl explains how riding can lower stress hormones like cortisol, build social connections, and serve as a powerful tool for personal growth. He shares his own path into this work, which began after navigating major life challenges—including divorce and job loss—that pushed him to seek out healthy outlets and rediscover purpose.

Throughout the conversation, Karl emphasizes the importance of investing in oneself and unapologetically pursuing passions, noting that motorcycles have played a pivotal role in his own journey of self-improvement. He praises the MotoCraft Show for its diversity, unique atmosphere, and community-driven celebration of motorcycle culture—standing apart from traditional events in Canada.

His closing message? Be “selfish” in prioritizing your well-being and joy, because doing so ultimately benefits everyone around you. You can follow Karl’s work on Instagram at instagram.com/zenmotorcyclemaintenance, where he shares insights on both mental health and motorcycle maintenance.

This episode of the Bad Beard Podcast features a deep and engaging conversation between host Sam Schneider—known as “Bad Beard,” an actor and podcaster—and guest Jonathan Mariande, a filmmaker, photographer, and adventurer.

The dialogue explores Jonathan’s journey in film production, from working in grips and lighting to directing and producing feature films. The conversation also dives into his unique personal path as a flat earther and documentarian, particularly focusing on his recent expedition to Antarctica for The Final Experiment—a controversial project designed to test flat earth theories alongside globe believers (“globers”).

Jonathan offers candid insights into the realities of working in both union and non-union film environments and reflects on the evolution of his craft over the years. He discusses the challenges of independent filmmaking, the importance of camaraderie on set, and the balancing act of wearing many creative hats. The episode also touches on his philosophy of “staying in honor,” which emphasizes grace, open-mindedness, and respectful curiosity when confronting differing beliefs or controversies.

The conversation further unpacks the details of the Antarctica trip, the group dynamics between flat earthers and skeptics, and the social media storm that followed. Jonathan describes the experiments conducted, the tensions and collaborations within the team, and the broader implications of challenging entrenched worldviews. He also shares updates on his ongoing projects—narrative features, documentaries—and his approach to storytelling as a continuous process of growth and exploration.

Ultimately, this episode is a nuanced reflection on truth, belief, creativity, and the value of respectful dialogue amid controversy, all seen through the lens of a seasoned creator’s personal and professional evolution.

• 🎥 Jonathan Mariande’s journey from grips and lighting to multifaceted filmmaker and adventurer.

• 🌍 Behind-the-scenes look at The Final Experiment documentary filmed in Antarctica.

• 🧠 The philosophy of “staying in honor” — embracing grace, questioning beliefs, and fostering respectful dialogue.

• ❄️ Firsthand details of the Antarctica expedition and interactions between flat earthers and globers.

• 🎬 Challenges and realities of independent filmmaking and balancing multiple roles.

• 📱 Viral social media impact of Jonathan’s Antarctica content and the polarizing reactions.

• 🤝 The importance of camaraderie and fun on set—and in life—despite differences and controversies.

At AIMExpo 2024, Sam (aka Bad Beard) sits down with Ya (@ayalolwut), a motorcycle content creator and community builder based in Salt Lake City. They talk about her journey into riding, the power of moto culture, balancing bikes with a day job in healthcare software, and why she’s all about good vibes, community, and maybe even racing one day.

In this special episode filmed live at AIMExpo, host Sam Schneider—aka Bad Beard—sits down with Caroline Reyes, better known as Doodle on a Motorcycle. Doodle shares how she began her moto journey in 2016 and evolved into a full-time content creator by 2021, inspiring women riders with her honest, educational, and empowering videos.Despite her petite frame, she tackles bikes like the Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro and encourages confidence, skill-building, and community among riders. From upgrading her filming setup to repping the Motorcycle Industry Council at major events, Doodle opens up about her creative process, growth, and love for two wheels.

On today’s episode, we meet Sasha Sogolow, who shares his deep experience in both the film and off-road motorsports industries. He talks about his work at the AIM Expo, where his production company, Drive Media, captures the event’s energy for promotional content. Sasha traces his filmmaking journey back to film school and highlights the technical demands of shooting action sports, especially in tough environments like Baja. He recalls early successes using high-frame-rate technology and working on viral hits like the Recoil series and Ken Block’s Gymkhana series—though he also voices frustration over projects that never saw release.

Sam relates, reflecting with humor on his own shift from filmmaking to stunt work and motorcycle sports, noting how his business has continued to thrive despite industry challenges. The conversation also explores the balance between creativity and business, the rapid evolution of drone technology, and the value of camaraderie in the creative world. Sasha wraps up by introducing a new venture: designing custom flags for off-road vehicles to better serve the needs of the enthusiast community.

On today’s show, that we’re titling, "Keeping memories alive," James Henderson reflects on the legacy of his late best friend, Peter Star, a renowned motorcycle traveler and cultural influencer whose life was marked by vibrant experiences as a radio DJ, motorcycle racer, and author of the book "Motorcycle Traveler." Following Peter's recent passing, James recounts their shared plans for distributing the book, which chronicles Peter's six-year journey through twelve countries, and the challenges that arose in bringing it to the public. The discussion expands to include the contributions Peter had as pivotal figure in motorcycle filmmaking, who faced difficulties in receiving recognition for his innovative work—such as pioneering camera attachments for bikes. As the conversation unfolds, it highlights Peter's generous spirit and significant impact on the motorcycle community, underscoring the importance of preserving their legacies through initiatives like the promotion of Peter's book and the acknowledgment of his contributions to the industry.

Fast friends, Sam(Bad Beard) and Roy(Roy’sToys) get the chance to chat at AimExpo!

Roy Martin, the seasoned motorcycle builder shares insights from his 30-year career in custom bike building following his retirement from law enforcement. He discusses his collaboration with Motorcycle Missions to create a custom bobber for veterans, underscoring his commitment to community and craftsmanship. Roy emphasizes a design approach focused on details and low-sitting bikes with air ride systems, reflecting a blend of tradition and innovation in his family-run business, which includes his daughter and grandchildren. The conversation also explores the luxury custom bike market, highlighting client relationships and the significance of quality. Roy speaks about his riding experiences in Colorado and upcoming motorcycle events, expressing excitement for future projects and the desire to pass on his knowledge to his daughter, which illustrates his dedication to integrity and fostering a passion for bike building.

On this episode of Bad Beard talks to Miranda Cain, a participant in the Royal Enfield Build Train Race (BTR) program. She shares her thrilling experiences in the racing world as she prepares for her second season. She expresses both excitement and nerves, as the transition from learning to competing brings added pressure to perform amid new competitors. The BTR program, which empowers women to customize and race Royal Enfield motorcycles and welcomes international participants, fosters a strong sense of community and camaraderie among racers. Miranda reflects on personal challenges, such as past crashes, and emphasizes the importance of bike adjustments for improved performance. Additionally, she discusses her active engagement with social media to keep her audience updated on her racing journey, showcasing her passion and the supportive atmosphere of the racing environment.

In this detailed discussion Bad Beard talks Damon Woodruff, the president of the  @SturgisBuffaloChip  , the conversation explores the rich history and evolution of the Sturgis motorcycle rally , which has become a major cultural event since its inception in 1938. Damon shares insights on how the Buffalo Chip, established in 1981 by his father Rod Woodruff, emerged as a pivotal venue for the rally, highlighting its unique role in fostering a vibrant community atmosphere and offering diverse activities for attendees. The dialogue addresses the shift from traditional cowboy culture to modern motorcycle festivities, emphasizing inclusivity and misconceptions about motorcycle culture, as seen with the creation of Camp Zero aimed at engaging younger generations. Anecdotes about memorable experiences at events, future plans for festival celebrations, and the relationship between the rally and the city of Sturgis further illustrate the rally's dynamic nature, showcasing a spirit of adventure and community that continues to thrive amidst evolving interests in motorcycle riding.

On this episode Sam sits with Justin Dawes at the 2025 AimEXPO. Justin, the executive editor of Cycle World magazine, shares his unique journey into the motorcycle industry and the shifting dynamics of print media. He reflects on personal anecdotes, such as a near-accident during a press launch in Italy and his unconventional transition from motorcycle racing to journalism, catalyzed by key career opportunities despite economic challenges and the decline of traditional print operations. As he discusses the impact of digital media, the pressure to produce timely content, and the allure of AI-generated articles, Justin emphasizes the importance of authentic, reader-focused journalism. He underscores the significance of genuine experiences and community support in navigating the evolving landscape of motorcycle media, expressing a commitment to mentorship and fostering the next generation of writers and enthusiasts. The conversation highlights his passion for motorcycling, the beauty of the riding experience, and the enduring value of thoughtful storytelling in preserving motorcycle culture.