Intrepid Global Citizen Podcast

This podcast episode that will take you on a journey across continents, through adversity, and into the heart of human experience. Today we're diving into an epic adventure that defies imagination.

Picture this: A lone cyclist, pedaling across the globe, starting in the quaint villages of Central Europe and venturing into the rugged Balkans. But that's just the beginning. Our intrepid traveler pushes eastward, through the ancient lands of Georgia and Armenia, into the mystical realms of Iran, and across the opulent Gulf countries.

But hold onto your handlebars, because the real heart-pounding adventure kicks off in Kenya. Imagine cycling mere meters from the Equator, your body dripping with sweat, as you navigate through a land of stark contrasts - from gut-wrenching poverty to breathtaking beauty, from perilous game reserves teeming with lions to encounters with some of the kindest souls on Earth.

From the wildlands of Africa to the roof of the world - Valentin aims to pedal on the legendary Pamir and Karakoram Highways, before seeking solace in the vibrant chaos of India. And that's just the halfway point! Southeast Asia, Australia, and the diverse tapestry of Latin America all lie ahead on this incredible odyssey.

You might think this journey is an insurmountable challenge, a feat reserved for superhumans. But here's the twist - our cyclist found it less daunting than expected. What secrets of human resilience and global kinship has this journey unveiled?

Tune in now to hear firsthand accounts of close encounters with wildlife, heartwarming tales of human connection, and insights that will challenge your perception of our world. This is a masterclass in human endurance, cultural understanding, and the art of embracing the unknown.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience the world through the eyes of a global cyclist. Click play now and let the adventure begin. Your perspective on travel, humanity, and your own potential will never be the same.

Contact Valentin and follow his adventure on Instagram and Facebook here: @valentin_vagabond

To support the podcast please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.

To find out more about host George Balarezo's adventures, you can find the book Unhinged in Ethiopia: Two Thousand Kilometers of Hell and Heaven on a Bicycle at the following link- https://intrepidglobalcitizen.com/

Contact me at [email protected] and let me know your thoughts and feelings about the podcast or if you have a story you'd like to share. 

Kimberly Coats is the CEO of Team Africa Rising, a nonprofit organization that promotes and supports cycling development in Africa. Kimberly has over 12 years of experience creating and managing innovative and impactful programs that empower African cyclists and foster a culture of excellence and inclusion. She is also a certified USA Cycling Coach Level 2, passionate about coaching and mentoring young and aspiring riders.

Her mission is to be a global voice and advocate for African cycling, especially for women who face many barriers and challenges in accessing and advancing in the sport. She has established solid partnerships and collaborations with cycling federations, governments, NGOs, sponsors, and media outlets across the continent and beyond to raise awareness, generate funding, and create opportunities for African cyclists. Kimberly is proud to have contributed to Rwanda becoming the first African country to host the UCI World Road Cycling Championships in 2025 and to have produced numerous African Olympic cyclists and professional riders.

She was also the 2022 BikeBiz Woman of the Year.

You can find out more about Africa Rising here: www.teamafricarising.org

To support the podcast please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.

To find out more about host George Balarezo's adventures, you can find the book Unhinged in Ethiopia: Two Thousand Kilometers of Hell and Heaven on a Bicycle at the following link- https://intrepidglobalcitizen.com/

Contact me at [email protected] and let me know your thoughts and feelings about the podcast or if you have a story you'd like to share. 

Explorers Kristen and Ville Jokinen met and fell in love while scuba diving in Vietnam. Ville then left his native Finland to join Kristen in Oregon and together they embarked on a life-changing two-year cycling adventure covering 18,000 miles from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, to Ushuaia, Argentina. Despite never having cycled further than around the block, they persevered unrelenting, punishing rain and wind, altitude sickness, dog attacks, bike accidents, and countless flat tires to cycle between the ends of the earth.

Kristen and Ville believe that kindness connects us to our shared humanity. They held babies, attended quinceañeras, drank pulque, played soccer, and visited schools. People in Mexico, Central America, and South America invited them into their hearts and homes, allowed them to camp in their fields and farms, and acted as personal tour guides. Kristen and Ville are love on wheels, and who doesn’t need a little more love in their lives?

You can find their book on their website here: www.welostthemap.com

Follow them on social media here: @welostthemap

Enjoy the conversation. Be bold. Be intrepid.

To support the podcast please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.

To find out more about host George Balarezo's adventures, you can find the book Unhinged in Ethiopia: Two Thousand Kilometers of Hell and Heaven on a Bicycle at the following link- https://intrepidglobalcitizen.com/

Contact me at [email protected] and let me know your thoughts and feelings about the podcast or if you have a story you'd like to share. 

In this episode we speak with Laura Massey-Pugh, one half of the team that recently set a Guinness World Record by cycling 18,000 miles on a tandem bicycle in 179 days and 12 hours.  

Stevie (Steven Massey) is a very experienced ultra-distance cyclist, completing his first 100+ mile ride at the ripe age of 11. In his racing days, he achieved 4th in the National 24 hour time trial championships (725km in 24 hours) and has finished London-Edinburgh-London, and Paris-Brest-Paris in the top 5%.  He has and unofficial record of riding the length of the UK and back again (~2000 miles) unsupported in 9.5 days and has cycled over 250,000 miles in his lifetime, over half the distance to the moon. He was an accomplished tandem rider when he met Laura and encouraged her to take the stoker seat on his tandem.

Laura (Laura Massey-Pugh) has ridden bicycles since a young age, commuting to school and work. Before she met Stevie, she had completed a 100 mile ride but it was he that introduced her to the world of ultra-distance cycling. She has completed Super Randonneur series (a 200km, 300km, 400km and 600km events) both on solo bicycle and tandem.  She rides “stoker” on the tandem and despite popular opinion does not “have her feet up on the back” but is able to assist with navigation and nutrition as well as providing a rear-wheel drive function.  She likes to mix her challenges up and prior to the record had trial run "coast to coast" of the UK and after completed an "Iron-distance" triathalon.

Together as SteLa Tandem some of their achievements include completing the 1000km Mille Pennines Audax, Land’s End to John O’Groats self supported on the tandem in 10 days and an epic 850 miles ride around the country of Wales in 8 days. They are the only tandem to finish  All Points North, an ultra-cycling event.

This all lead to their record breaking tandem ride around the world, covering over 18,000 miles in 180 days, self-supported on their tandem bicycle.

Their book "Backseat Rider" is available on their website here:  http://www.stelatandem.com 

You can find their YouTube channel (including podcasts) here:

https://www.youtube.com/@stelatandem2702

You can follow them on social media here:

Twitter @SteLaTandem

Instagram @SteLa_Tandem

Facebook @SteLa Tandem Round the World Record

Enjoy the conversation. Be bold. Be intrepid.

To support the podcast please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.

To find out more about host George Balarezo's adventures, you can find the book Unhinged in Ethiopia: Two Thousand Kilometers of Hell and Heaven on a Bicycle at the following link- https://intrepidglobalcitizen.com/

Contact me at [email protected] and let me know your thoughts and feelings about the podcast or if you have a story you'd like to share. 

Tim embarked on a daring dream to pedal around the globe. With nothing but sheer determination and a modest budget of 6 pounds (7 USD) per day, he mounted his trusty 90-pound (110 USD) bicycle, setting off from Reading, United Kingdom, without a map and nothing more than a pocketful of hope to make it to Reading, Pennsylvania in the United States. 

In the sun-scorched Australian outback, he struggled for every precious drop of water in the relentless 110°F (40°C) heat and battled the elements that seemed determined to thwart his journey.

In the heart of Central Asia, he pitched his tent while braving frigid -15°C (0° F) temperatures that would send shivers down anyone's spine. 

Tim's quest was not without its trials. Prolonged hospital stays in China and El Salvador tested his physical and emotional mettle. In the midst of this incredible adventure, he faced a heart-wrenching breakup with his girlfriend after cycling together for an entire year, a poignant reminder of the sacrifices he made for his grand expedition.

For the unfiltered and exhilarating account of Tim's extraordinary journey, his book, "Reading to Reading: A Bicycle Journey Around the World," is a must-read. It's a chronicle of an epic adventure, a tale of human endurance, and a testament to the power of dreams that refuse to be confined by the ordinary.


Find Tim's book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1527273563


Follow Tim on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/cyclingoverland/

Enjoy the conversation. Be bold. Be intrepid.

To support the podcast please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.

To find out more about host George Balarezo's adventures, you can find the book Unhinged in Ethiopia: Two Thousand Kilometers of Hell and Heaven on a Bicycle at the following link- https://intrepidglobalcitizen.com/

Contact me at [email protected] and let me know your thoughts and feelings about the podcast or if you have a story you'd like to share. 

In this thrilling episode, we embark on a two-wheeled expedition through one of the world's most breathtaking landscapes - the Karakoram Highway in Pakistan. Join us as we pedal our way through this mountainous wonderland, exploring the culture, the challenges, and the sheer beauty that make this journey a must for every adventurer.

Hosted by seasoned cyclist and travel enthusiast, George Balarezo, this episode takes you on a virtual journey through the heart of the Karakoram Range. 

Our adventure begins in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, where George sets the stage for the breathtaking ride ahead. From the bustling streets of Islamabad, he cycles northward, reaching the gateway to the Karakoram Highway in the town of Abbottabad. Along the way, he shares insights on the challenges faced by cyclists, including the extreme altitude, rapidly changing weather conditions, and the sheer physical demands of cycling at high elevations.

As he pedals deeper into the Karakoram Range, the landscape transforms from lush valleys to rugged mountains, with the mighty Indus River flowing alongside. George discusses the unique culture and hospitality of the local people, providing a glimpse into the warm and welcoming communities that dot the route.

Throughout the episode, George provides practical tips for anyone considering this epic cycling journey. 

For armchair travelers and adventurous souls alike, this episode is a captivating exploration of one of the most challenging and awe-inspiring cycling routes on the planet. Join us as we embark on a virtual adventure along the Karakoram Highway, and discover why it is a true cyclist's dream and a testament to the beauty of Pakistan's northern frontier.


Enjoy the conversation. Be bold. Be intrepid.

To support the podcast please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.

To find out more about host George Balarezo's adventures, you can find the book Unhinged in Ethiopia: Two Thousand Kilometers of Hell and Heaven on a Bicycle at the following link- https://intrepidglobalcitizen.com/

Contact me at [email protected] and let me know your thoughts and feelings about the podcast or if you have a story you'd like to share. 

After cycling 700 kilometers in 24 hours as a competitive cyclist, Marc Tiburski left his home in Germany and is now 666 days and 40,000 kilometers into his world cycling tour. In this episode we talk about how he achieved celebrity status in Iraq after getting his phone stolen, his experiences fasting during Ramadan, and pedaling while literary drunk on hospitality in Iran. Marc also talks about his adventures cycling across Saudi Arabia, a country that has been open to tourism only since 2019.

Follow Marc on social media @Bikeaway or at https://www.bikeaway91.de/

Enjoy the conversation. Be bold. Be intrepid.

To support the podcast please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.

To find out more about host George Balarezo's adventures, you can find the book Unhinged in Ethiopia: Two Thousand Kilometers of Hell and Heaven on a Bicycle at the following link- https://intrepidglobalcitizen.com/

Contact me at [email protected] and let me know your thoughts and feelings about the podcast or if you have a story you'd like to share. 

YJ & Gracia are currently on a mission to cycle across the world to get back home to Singapore on a tandem bicycle. Before their adventure, they did van life for a year in the United States driving around 48 states.

In this episode, they talk about their romance, which all started in an abandoned house during COVID lockdowns before getting "caught with their pants down" by the owner while on a date, their social experiment in the most racist town in the United States, as well as the challenges of touring on a tandem bicycle.

Follow them on social media @the proper paupers or at https://www.theproperpaupers.com/

Enjoy the conversation. Be bold. Be intrepid.

To support the podcast please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.

To find out more about host George Balarezo's adventures, you can find the book Unhinged in Ethiopia: Two Thousand Kilometers of Hell and Heaven on a Bicycle at the following link- https://intrepidglobalcitizen.com/

Contact me at [email protected] and let me know your thoughts and feelings about the podcast or if you have a story you'd like to share. 

Richard is the founder and CEO of 10Adventures, where he helps people create the experiences that end up as the photos on their walls, the stories that are told at family reunions, and the memories that last a lifetime.  Richard has spent his 20-year career in high-growth start-ups and scale-ups, having worked across three continents, and worked in English, French, and Spanish.  Richard is an alumnus from Harvard Business School and London Business School, where he was a Sloan Fellow.  He lives in Calgary and spends his weekends exploring the Rocky Mountains with his wife and 3 children.

Enjoy the conversation. Be bold. Be intrepid.

To support the podcast please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.

To find out more about host George Balarezo's adventures, you can find the book Unhinged in Ethiopia: Two Thousand Kilometers of Hell and Heaven on a Bicycle at the following link- https://intrepidglobalcitizen.com/

Contact me at [email protected] and let me know your thoughts and feelings about the podcast or if you have a story you'd like to share. 

This is an interview I did for the 10 Adventures Podcast. The host Richard Campbell read my book, Unhinged in Ethiopia: Two Thousand Kilometers of Hell and Heaven on a Bicycle in preparation for the episode and we took a deep dive into the journey.

In this episode I detail some of the hardships faced while on the road in Ethiopia and give advice to novice adventurers looking to step outside of their comfort zones.

Enjoy the conversation. Be bold. Be intrepid.

To support the podcast please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.

To find out more about host George Balarezo's adventures, you can find the book Unhinged in Ethiopia: Two Thousand Kilometers of Hell and Heaven on a Bicycle at the following link- https://intrepidglobalcitizen.com/

Contact me at [email protected] and let me know your thoughts and feelings about the podcast or if you have a story you'd like to share.