
This week, I’m joined by Sean Leader. Sean has been a driving force behind developing the riding scene on the east coast of America, and along with Neko Mulally is the man behind Windrock Bike Park. We sat down to find out more about Sean’s own race career where he competed at a high level in many disciplines, we chat about how investing has helped him live the kind of lifestyle he wants, what it took to build the track for the Snowshoe world cup and plenty more.



You can follow Sean on Instagram @seanleader or Windrock @windrockbikepark



The trail tools that Sean mentions in the episode can be found at roguehoe.com



The podcast needs your help, so if you want to support the podcast and help me keep it going, then there are two options. You can 'share the love' and make a financial contribution to keeping the show going and getting better by clicking here. You can do this as a one off, a regular thing, or whenever you fancy. Or, you can get yourself a t-shirt, hoodie, sweatshirt or mug by heading to downtime podcast.com/shop. Shipping is FREE worldwide on orders over £30! As all the merch is top quality, we don't make much profit on these items, but it is great to see people out and about in their Downtime gear.



If you are enjoying the podcast, then don’t forget to subscribe. It’s free, and it means you’ll get every episode delivered to your device as soon as it’s available. All the links you need are at downtimepodcast.com/subscribe. You can also find us on Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, TuneIn Radio and most of the podcast apps out there. While you're there, you can also join our newsletter, which means you'll get our Weekend Warm-Up email every Friday.



If you want to share tips and advice with other podcast listeners on anything mountain bike related, you can join our Facebook group, head to www.facebook.com/groups/mtbperformance/ request permission to join the group and get involved!



Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes



Photo - Burk Saunders

Growing the Scene – Sean Leader from Windrock Bike Park

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.

Hobbies

Games & Hobbies

Sports

Fitness

Health & Fitness

Wilderness

Leisure


Today, we're joined by Katy Winton. In this episode, Katy opens up about her journey through burnout, the unexpected end of GT Factory Racing, and the reality of trying to find a team in the current economic climate. But fear not – Katy's resilience shines through as she shares how she’s navigated these challenges and changes and found fulfilment outside of the tape. Hear how Katy is getting on with working a 9 to 5 and how she’s going to be working with Crankworx to help elevate the event coverage. I’ll also be asking Katy about her plans for 2024. As always, Katy brings an open and honest chat with heaps of energy. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Katy Winton.



You can also watch this episode here.



You can follow Katy on Instagram @misswinton and on her YouTube channel here.



Podcast Stuff



Supporting Partners



Canyon



Are you looking for a new ride? Well, the Canyon Trail Sale has started so that you can shred for less and save big on your next bike. With no better way to start your season than with a brand new, world-class mountain bike, you can save up to 30% on your dream Canyon. Head over to canyon.com now to find out more.



Wahoo Fitness



Wahoo's products have been key to my fitness for a number of years now. Their KICKR indoor trainer and ELEMNTRoam and Bolt get a lot of use. Their gear also gets better with free software updates and Wahoo's latest update will be bringing music control and GoPro control to your bike computer. Check out the entire range over at wahoofitness.com.



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 <a href="https://www.instagram.

Katy Winton On Career Transitions, Burnout, and Finding Balance


Today, I'm joined by Dan Griffiths, aka Moonhead Media, known for his stunning mountain bike photography. In this episode, we're going beyond the photos, diving deep into Dan's personal journey. From capturing those jaw-dropping moments to confronting the challenges of mental health, Dan shares his unfiltered story with us. 



We’ll hear how Dan's journey has been marked by bold leaps of faith and unwavering trust in the universe. He's been brave enough to go all in, following his passion and embracing the unknown with open arms. Prepare to be inspired as we dive into the heart of creativity and courage. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with the man behind Moonhead Media, Dan Griffiths.



You can also watch this episode here.



You can follow Dan on Instagram @moonhead_media or over on his website moonheadmedia.com.



The books Dan mentioned were 'The Power of Now' by Eckhart Tolle and 'The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success' by Deepak Chopra.



Podcast Stuff



Supporting Partners



7mesh



7mesh's commitment to crafting top quality, innovative mountain bike clothing is second to none. They've just launched their Spring/Summer 2024 Mountain Bike collection with heaps of vibrant new colours and an update to their awesome trail pant, the Glidepath. Downtime listeners get 20% off until 1st May 2024, using the code downtimex7mesh20 at the checkout on 7mesh.com.



Wahoo Fitness



Wahoo's products have been key to my fitness for a number of years now. Their KICKR indoor trainer and ELEMNTRoam and Bolt get a lot of use. Their gear also gets better with free software updates and Wahoo's latest update will be bringing music control and GoPro control to your bike computer. Check out the entire range over at wahoofitness.com.



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




Finding Your Authentic Self – Dan Griffiths aka Moonhead Media


Today, I'm joined by Ben Plenge from the Strength Factory and we're diving headfirst into the world of mountain bike fitness, tackling some of the most pressing questions from you, the listeners. From battling arm pump to fine-tuning your nutrition and hydration strategies, we leave no stone unturned.



Join us as we explore topics ranging from race-day approaches to maintaining optimal shoulder health, and even how to tailor training for the younger riders out there. Plus, we'll be delving into the realm of supplements, helping you find the must-haves and avoid wasting money.



Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips to help you conquer the trails with confidence. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode on mountain bike fitness with Ben Plenge.



To save money on Strength Factory programmes, you can use the code DOWNTIME30  which is valid until 21st April 2024.



The code will give you 30% off your first two months (after the free trial) of the Complete MTB Programme for trail riders and enduro racers. Or 30% off the Over 40s MTB Programme (lifetime access after purchase).



You can sign up to Ben's mailing list, MTB Momentum, for your weekly dose of MTB training and fitness and subscribe to his YouTube channel here.



The book that Ben mentioned for great advice on Women's fitness is ROAR by Dr Stacy Sims, which you'll find here.



Podcast Stuff



Supporting Partners



7mesh



7mesh's commitment to crafting top quality, innovative mountain bike clothing is second to none. They've just launched their Spring/Summer 2024 Mountain Bike collection with heaps of vibrant new colours and an update to their awesome trail pant, the Glidepath. Downtime listeners get 20% off until 1st May 2024, using the code downtimex7mesh20 at the checkout on 7mesh.com.



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 sc...

Your Biggest Mountain Bike Fitness Challenges Solved


Today we’re joined by Trek Factory Racing’s downhill team manager, Andrew Shandro. We'll delve into the dynamic journey of Andrew's career, from his early days as a racer, through his time as a free rider and rampage competitor, to his pivotal role as a team manager and mentor. We’ll discuss Andrew’s involvement with Trek’s C3 programme, where he’s signed athletes like Brandon Semenuk and Emil Johansson. We’ll explore the evolution of downhill racing, reflecting on the highs, lows, and where the sport is at today. Andrew brings a wealth of experience and insight to the table, particularly through his involvement with Trek Factory Downhill and his deep understanding of how the landscape of downhill racing has shifted over the years. From navigating the challenges of managing a team to the thrill of mentoring the next generation of riders, Andrew's perspective offers invaluable wisdom. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Andrew Shandro.



You can watch this episode on the Downtime YouTube channel here.



You can follow Trek Factory DH here.



Podcast Stuff



Supporting Partners



7mesh



7mesh's commitment to crafting top quality, innovative mountain bike clothing is second to none. They've just launched their Spring/Summer 2024 Mountain Bike collection with heaps of vibrant new colours and an update to their awesome trail pant, the Glidepath. Downtime listeners get 20% off until 1st May 2024, using the code downtimex7mesh20 at the checkout on 7mesh.com.



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,

Downhill Dynamics: Andrew Shandro’s Perspective on Racing, Managing, and Mentoring


Today I’m joined by one of the most stylish enduro riders on the planet, Iago Garay. Iago's story is one of passion, perseverance, hard work and dedication. In this episode, we'll explore the pivotal moments that shaped Iago's journey, from his introduction to mountain biking to his unique story of how he turned professional and got his big break. We'll also dive into the future of enduro racing, gaining valuable insights from Iago's unique and positive perspective as a seasoned competitor. But perhaps most importantly, we'll discuss Iago's incredible resilience in the face of adversity, including his recent battle with a brain aneurysm. Through it all, Iago's unwavering spirit and love for the sport have remained unbreakable, serving as an inspiration to riders around the world. This is a conversation you won't want to miss. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Iago Garay.



You can watch this episode on the Downtime YouTube channel here.



You can follow Iago on Instagram @iagogaray and checkout DYEDBRO here.



Podcast Stuff



Supporting Partners



7mesh



7mesh's commitment to crafting top quality, innovative mountain bike clothing is second to none. They've just launched their Spring/Summer 2024 Mountain Bike collection with heaps of vibrant new colours and an update to their awesome trail pant, the Glidepath. Downtime listeners get 20% off until 1st May 2024, using the code downtimex7mesh20 at the checkout on 7mesh.com.



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,

Growing the Scene – Sean Leader from Windrock Bike Park

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