Movers Mindset

How can individuals integrate nature, education, art, and personal healing into creating positive change for themselves and their communities?

Lindsey Kleinberg advocates for nature play in the most important way; practicing what she preaches. She shares her experiences raising her family through alternative and nature education, and why it’s important to her. Lindsey describes the benefits home gardening, self-care, and how she approaches creating change. She discusses books, blogging, art, and what she hopes to achieve in her community.

"When you're really working on a personal journey, if you are making those steps for positive impact and change, people around you, whether or not they will admit, they start to feel those things." ~ Lindsey Kleinberg (44:22)

Lindsey Kleinberg is an educator, artist, avid gardener, and nature play advocate. She is the founder of the Finding Place LV, a Reggio-inspired micro school whose mission is to reconnect kids with nature. In addition to her Masters degree, Lindsey is certified  in many areas, including Nature-based outdoor education and School Garden Coordinator.

The conversation explores how integrating nature, art, and alternative education can foster healing and inspire positive change. Discussing the importance of organic gardening, Lindsey emphasizes the transformative effects of hands-on, sustainable practices in raising children. These practices encourage empathy, environmental stewardship, and a deep connection to the natural world.

Topics also touch on the role of art in healing, with examples of how creative activities—ranging from murals to gardening—can reconnect individuals to themselves and their communities. Lindsey advocates for simple actions, such as planting seeds or creating small garden spaces, to initiate broader personal and societal shifts. A recurring theme is the necessity of self-care to sustain these efforts, ensuring individuals remain grounded and effective in their pursuits.

Takeaways

Planting seeds of change — Small, intentional actions like gardening can have a profound impact on individuals and communities.

Self-care as a foundation — Addressing personal well-being is critical to sustaining efforts for broader change.

Nature as a teacher — Hands-on experiences in nature foster empathy, creativity, and resilience in children and adults.

Art and creativity — Engaging in art is a powerful tool for personal and communal healing.

The ripple effect of change — Personal growth and intentional practices can influence and inspire those around you.

Raising environmentally conscious children — Early exposure to sustainable practices helps develop lifelong habits of stewardship and care.

Balancing digital presence — While online tools can spread awareness, maintaining human connections remains essential.

Holistic education models — Integrating principles from Waldorf and Reggio Emilia philosophies creates dynamic, experiential learning environments.

Resources

Lindsey is the founder of The Finding Place Lehigh Valley

Lindsey’s recent blog post, searching for ‘home’.

Rodale Institute — A leader in regenerative organic agriculture and education.

Julian Is a Mermaid — A children’s book advocating for self-expression and creativity.

Kutztown University's Program in Regenerative Organic Agriculture — Collaboration with the Rodale Institute to provide a unique degree program.

Waldorf: Environment as teacher, play, storytelling, natural learning

Reggio-Emilio, community learning, art, intergenerational

Let’s Play Books and Now and Then books

Book most often given away: Julián is a Mermaid, Jessica Love

Largest book: Hobbit/Lord of the Rings combo book, Welcome to the Museum series

Book you most want, but can’t get: Iwigara

Interactive art, Juxtahub

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What can be learned from reflecting on personal growth and authenticity through the lenses of podcasting and movement?

Exploring the intersection of self-expression and discipline through creative mediums.

"Experimentation was key for me. And I think it's just like, where are you finding the growth?" ~ Brandon Douglass (13:04)

This conversation explores the themes of personal growth, authenticity, and creative expression, using podcasting and movement as central mediums. Topics include navigating the gap between public persona and authentic self, the therapeutic and self-reflective aspects of podcasting, and the challenges of overcoming fears both in movement and public speaking. Insights are shared on how the process of self-expression can foster understanding and self-awareness.

The discussion also covers practical aspects of podcasting, such as experimenting with formats, balancing consistency with creativity, and reflecting on past work to identify growth. A significant focus is placed on the importance of intentionality in creative practices and the value of embracing novel approaches to stand out in saturated fields. Movement is presented as both a physical and metaphorical language that enables exploration of different dimensions of self-expression.

Takeaways

The role of fear challenges in fostering personal growth — How embracing fear in movement and creative expression leads to growth.

The gap between public persona and authentic self — Reflections on how podcasting highlights this dynamic.

The therapeutic aspects of podcasting — Using podcasting as a tool for self-reflection and emotional processing.

Experimentation as a path to growth — The value of trying novel approaches to discover new insights.

The interplay of consistency and creativity — Challenging traditional content models to foster innovation.

Movement as a multidimensional language — Exploring different styles and expressions through physical practice.

The value of intentionality — Emphasizing meaningful and deliberate approaches in creative work.

Resources

Height Drop Podcast — A podcast focused on movement, culture, and personal growth.

MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani's — A podcast format discussed as an inspiration for creative interview styles.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What influences the balance between seriousness and playfulness in physical training and movement practices?

Physical challenges highlight the intricate relationship between personal growth and self-reflection.

"I think that there is a lot of creativity for one— but also, just progression, that happens in the space of being playful, goofing around, and not taking your practice too seriously." ~ Alyssa Serpa (13:07)

The conversation focuses on the interplay of seriousness and playfulness in Parkour and how each can influence personal growth and training outcomes. Insights are shared on the importance of reflecting on one’s commitment to training and how shifting priorities shape practices. A nuanced discussion emerges around how environmental factors, such as the pandemic, have impacted community interactions and travel.

Another theme explored is the role of injuries in redefining one’s approach to physical movement. Recovering from injury led to creative exploration and a greater focus on playful practice. The dialogue underscores the importance of striking a balance between structured training and unstructured play, with a strong emphasis on the joy and personal autonomy gained through movement.

Takeaways

Balancing seriousness and playfulness — Finding the right mix enhances both enjoyment and progress in training.

Creativity in movement practices — Playful exploration can lead to unexpected growth and insights.

Physical activity and life balance — Staying active contributes to overall well-being and stress management.

Impact of travel on training — Travel fosters connections but also comes with costs like carbon footprint and financial strain.

Adapting through injury — Recovery periods can become opportunities for lateral growth and skill refinement.

Value of vulnerability — Allowing space for experimentation and failure encourages new possibilities.

Importance of community — Engaging with peers locally and internationally enriches the training experience.

Resources

@alyssa.serpa on Instagram

@AlyssaSerpa on YouTube

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

How does exploring one's center and asking questions influence personal growth and understanding?

Asking the right questions transforms challenges into opportunities for growth.

"I think that a way to find creativity and inspiration is, try to read something, try to see something that is not what you usually see, that is not what you usually do. Make yourself feel uncomfortable, and make yourself feel comfortable in the uncomfortable." ~ Sebastián Ruiz Jiménez (2:30)

The discussion explores the concept of finding one's center and how this aligns with personal growth. Sebastián emphasizes the importance of stepping outside comfort zones to spark creativity and curiosity. He shares insights on seeking inspiration through diverse experiences, such as books, podcasts, and challenging unfamiliar activities.

The conversation also touches on the importance of asking meaningful questions, both of oneself and others, to uncover purpose and direction. Philosophical principles, movement practices, and mindfulness techniques are interwoven to illustrate how individuals can align their actions with deeper values. Practical lessons, like maintaining good technique in physical training, underscore the need for balance and awareness.

Takeaways

Finding inspiration — Engage with unfamiliar or challenging ideas to spark creativity.

The importance of questions — Use questions to challenge assumptions and uncover deeper understanding.

Solid foundations — Build strong roots and bases to support sustainable growth.

Teaching through challenges — Encourage self-discovery by posing questions and fostering problem-solving.

Movement as a center — Align physical and mental practices with a central guiding principle.

Mindfulness in action — Maintain awareness by centering thoughts and actions in everyday life.

Avoiding injury — Prioritize proper technique and self-awareness to prevent harm.

Philosophical connections — Relate ideas from philosophy to practical life applications.

Resources

Simon Sinek — Author of "Start With Why" and creator of the Golden Circle framework, emphasizing the importance of purpose in personal and professional contexts.

Start With Why — A book by Simon Sinek that discusses the power of understanding "why" to drive inspiration and success.

Peace Revolution — A meditation project by a Buddhist foundation in Thailand, promoting inner peace as a foundation for sustainable world peace.

Rise of the Guardians — An animated film by DreamWorks that explores themes of purpose and identity through characters like Santa Claus and Jack Frost.

CrossFit — A functional fitness training program combining strength and conditioning, emphasizing holistic body movement.

Sebastián Ruiz Jiménez on LinkedIn

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What lessons and insights can be drawn from personal experiences in Parkour and community development?

Exploring how personal growth intertwines with professional experiences in Parkour and community development.

"Getting things out there, 85, 90% done, and then there maybe being a few little fixes you do, is actually harmless compared to making people wait or never getting to the end of a project." ~ Chris Grant (15:49)

The conversation explores the evolution of roles and responsibilities within the Parkour community. Chris discusses his transition from being a coach to a development manager at Parkour UK, emphasizing the value of building systems that support practitioners. He reflects on how stepping back from Parkour full-time provided him with a broader perspective and transferable skills, which he now applies to help others in the community.

The discussion also touches on practical advice for those navigating entrepreneurial endeavors in niche fields. Topics include the importance of financial stability, embracing imperfection in projects, and the benefits of setting boundaries to avoid burnout. Chris highlights the need for humility and openness to new learning opportunities, even after years of experience in a field.

Takeaways

Financial stability — A foundational element that enables greater flexibility and decision-making power.

Adaptability — Skills learned outside a primary field often enhance one's ability to contribute meaningfully.

Perfectionism — Often a barrier to progress, where action is more valuable than ideal outcomes.

Community support — Building systems that ease the workload of active practitioners is vital for growth.

Perspective — Stepping away from a practice can offer valuable insights when re-engaging with it later.

Boundaries — Setting limits on work hours is crucial for maintaining personal well-being and professional effectiveness.

Continual learning — Embracing a mindset of humility and constant improvement enhances one's impact.

Resources

Parkour UK — An organization focused on the development and promotion of Parkour in the UK.

Chris Grant on LinkedIn

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

How does one balance pursuing multiple creative and physical endeavors while maintaining long-term growth and curiosity?

Practical insights into climbing, gymnastics, and writing illuminate the shared themes of persistence and adaptability.

"My real goal is to get people thinking about how to apply all these different kinds of steps to their own training or injuries or whatever they are working on and be able to do things for themselves." ~ Steven Low (15:59)

This conversation weaves through the journey of pursuing physical and creative challenges, reflecting on how to balance growth and curiosity over time. Topics range from the iterative process of writing deeply informative books to the physical and mental intricacies of climbing and gymnastics. The discussion emphasizes the importance of problem-solving and adapting methods based on personal experiences and new scientific insights.

Personal anecdotes highlight the interplay of curiosity, physical limitations, and the satisfaction derived from mastering difficult tasks. The conversation touches on teaching as a vehicle for personal fulfillment, drawing parallels between activities such as rock climbing and whitewater rafting in terms of their unique ability to offer new perspectives and foster resilience.

Takeaways

The process of iterative refinement — Decisions about revisiting or updating projects depend on scientific advancements and user needs.

The importance of problem-solving — Physical activities like climbing offer unique opportunities for analytical thinking and pushing limits.

Balancing multiple interests — Shifting focus to new projects can sustain long-term curiosity and motivation.

Encouraging independent learning — Teaching concepts rather than step-by-step instructions fosters autonomy and adaptability.

Practical application of concepts — Trial and error helps individuals tailor training approaches to their unique circumstances.

Avoiding repetitive monotony — Preference for varied and challenging activities highlights the value of engaging pursuits.

The role of curiosity in growth — Directed curiosity helps bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

The appeal of outdoor activities — Activities like climbing and hiking combine physical effort with an appreciation for nature.

Adapting training methods — Personal experience and feedback guide modifications to improve outcomes.

The significance of goal-oriented training — Structured challenges provide satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment.

The interplay of teaching and learning — Effective teaching ignites curiosity and helps others become self-sufficient problem solvers.

Resources

Overcoming Gravity — Steven's book focused on mastering gymnastics-inspired training.

Overcoming Poor Posture — Steven's book addressing common posture problems and their solutions.

Steven Low’s Blog — Articles exploring fitness, health, and training methodologies.

Steven Low on LinkedIn

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What role does curiosity play in shaping movement, interactions, and personal growth?

The nuanced relationship between uncertainty and opportunity defines how we engage with challenges.

"If you protect yourself from all uncertainty, maybe you are protecting yourself from falling down a well or getting eaten by a bear, but you're also protecting yourself from love." ~ Flynn Disney (8:05)

The conversation begins with an exploration of curiosity as a driving force behind personal growth and movement practices. Curiosity is described as a positive sense of uncertainty, where individuals embrace the unknown with hope rather than fear. This attitude ties directly to embodied experiences, where physical movement reflects the mental and emotional processes involved in navigating uncertainty.

The discussion touches on boundaries, games, and goals, emphasizing their roles in learning and engagement. A notable insight is the idea that boundaries create meaning in challenges, as seen in activities like parkour and games. The interplay of failure and success, described as the resolution of uncertainty, is vital for developing curiosity and staying motivated. Personal anecdotes, such as training dogs and solving puzzles, highlight how curiosity manifests across diverse contexts.

Takeaways

Curiosity as a mindset — Embracing uncertainty with positivity leads to exploration and growth.

Boundaries and goals — Defining clear limits gives meaning and direction to challenges.

Failure as a tool — Error and near-success foster curiosity and engagement.

The role of games — Structured play highlights universal principles of learning and connection.

Embodied practices — Physical movement reflects and reinforces mental and emotional exploration.

Uncertainty's dual nature — It holds risks and opportunities, requiring a balance to embrace.

Social dynamics — Shared curiosity creates a sense of belonging and mutual understanding.

Resources

Flynn Disney on LinkedIn

Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi — Explores the concept of engaging deeply in activities that balance skill and challenge.

Parkour training insights — Explores the movement discipline emphasizing adaptability and exploration.

Rubik’s Cube puzzles — Used in the conversation as a metaphor for learning through trial and error.

Positive uncertainty — The philosophical and psychological exploration of uncertainty's benefits.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What unique insights and challenges arise from participating in World Chase Tag and how do they intersect with the broader culture and practices of parkour?

This discussion explores the tension between preserving authenticity and adapting for mainstream appeal in parkour competitions.

"Being playful, goofing around, is part of keeping your head in the game. And if you lose that playfulness, that's when I get really worried that I won't be able to perform." ~ Olof Wood (15:20)

The conversation examines World Chase Tag as a competitive extension of parkour, highlighting its demands on reflexes and decision-making. The interplay of flow states and logical strategies is emphasized as central to mastering the sport. Its unique blend of simplicity and complexity offers accessibility to audiences and athletes while retaining its competitive edge.

Discussions also touch upon social media's influence on parkour practitioners. By choosing to disengage from traditional platforms, Olof reflects on authenticity and how parkour communities could benefit from self-owned platforms. The broader implications for personal evolution within parkour are also explored, with insights into adapting practices to life's changing demands.

Takeaways

Reflexive demands of World Chase Tag — Highlighted as a unique intersection of logical strategy and flow states that enhance traditional parkour.

Challenges in mainstreaming parkour — Explored through the potential compromises between authenticity and large-scale appeal in events like WCT.

Playfulness as a performance key — Underlined as crucial for maintaining focus and avoiding burnout during competitions.

Social media's impact on creativity — Discussed as a double-edged sword influencing personal expression and community engagement.

Adaptability in parkour practice — Acknowledged as vital for sustaining participation through different life phases.

Resources

World Chase Tag Official Website — The central hub for World Chase Tag competitions and information.

Outrun Parkour — The parkour gym where Olof coaches.

Urban Jumpers App — Highlighted as a parkour-focused social media alternative.

Olof Wood @olofwood

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What insights and experiences are shared about balancing personal life, professional commitments, and community involvement in Parkour and humanitarian work?

The journey from Washington, DC, to sabbatical in Scotland highlights the value of rest and self-reflection.

"You don’t need to earn a break; you’re allowed to just take time off and breathe and enjoy your life a little bit." ~ Adrienne Toumayan (4:59)

The conversation begins with reflections on taking a sabbatical and the challenges of prioritizing rest and recovery. Insights are shared on overcoming self-doubt and embracing the freedom to recharge. Adrienne discusses their unique journey, transitioning between a demanding career in humanitarian aid and their deep involvement in Parkour, where she has contributed to events like the North American Women’s Parkour Gathering.

The dialogue also explores the Adrienne’s contributions to Parkour Earth, emphasizing the importance of foundational work in creating a transparent and inclusive global organization. Additionally, she shares her passion for storytelling through blogs and Instagram, using these platforms to connect with others and inspire engagement with their adventures. The beauty of the Scottish Highlands is also highlighted as a source of inspiration and joy during her sabbatical.

Takeaways

Balancing professional and personal life — Insights on the decision to take a sabbatical and its impact on personal well-being.

Parkour Earth’s mission — Efforts to create a global, transparent organization uniting diverse Parkour communities.

Storytelling through digital platforms — The role of blogs and Instagram in sharing experiences and connecting with others.

Cultural and geographical inspiration — Reflections on the transformative power of travel, especially in Scotland.

Identity and duality — Challenges of navigating a double life between Parkour and humanitarian aid work.

Resources

Adrienne’s Instagram — Personal insights and adventures shared through photography and stories.

North American Women’s Parkour Gathering — Event promoting women’s involvement in Parkour.

Parkour Earth — Global organization fostering the Parkour community.

Isle of Skye — Destination discussed for its magical landscapes and inspiration.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What makes bike racing a unique and transformative experience for individuals and communities?

Bike racing is Joan Hanscom’s life; from racing for fun, to professionally organizing races, to running an entire bike racing organization, Joan has done it all. She talks about all things bike racing; from how she got started, to organizing, to the challenges facing women in the sport. Joan discusses her work at the Valley Preferred Cycling Center, and the importance of outreach and the larger picture. She shares her insights on passion, training, podcasting, and what a career in the sport means to her.

"As a person who’s had a career in bike racing since 2002, I was well versed in knowing what the velodrome was, and it was sort of an honor to be tasked with this role. If there’s one thing that I want the velodrome to be is, it’s fun, because that matters. But I also want it to be a place where little kids Pee Wee Pedalers, Squirts and Weebles Wobbles, all the way up to master’s racers, and everybody in between, elite or not, can come and have fun. To me, it’s a place where we can cultivate this lifelong enjoyment of the bike." ~ Joan Hanscom (20:53)

Joan Hanscom is a cyclist, podcast host, and the Executive Director at Valley Preferred Cycling Center. Her love of the sport helped her build a unique career in race promotion and production, working with organizations such as the US Gran Prix of Cyclocross, Cyclocross World Championships, and USA Cycling. Currently, Joan is the Executive Director of the Valley Preferred Cycling center in Trexlertown, Pa, and hosts the Talk of the T-Town podcast.

"It’s the process. It’s the process, no matter what your pursuit is. If you are pursuing excellence in the ballet, it is repetition. It is absolutely repetition. The process of the ballet is every day, there’s a bar, there’s plies, there’s grand plies. There’s jete. It’s a repetition and it’s a process of perfection. Maybe ballet is skewed a little bit more towards perfection than other sports, but it is definitely a repetition and a process and a refinement that you do daily." ~ Joan Hanscom (42:50)

This conversation centers on the multifaceted world of cycling, highlighting its unique sensory and communal experiences. A core theme is the immersive nature of bike racing, from the visceral sounds and sights at the velodrome to the inclusive, community-focused atmosphere it fosters. Joan reflects on her lifelong passion for cycling, tracing it back to her childhood and describing how the sport bridges personal enjoyment and professional achievement. She shares her experiences in organizing races, engaging the local cycling community, and her work at the Valley Preferred Cycling Center, aiming to create an inclusive space for all cyclists, from children to elite athletes.

Another key discussion point is the systemic challenges in the sport, especially regarding women's participation. Joan outlines how structural gaps, like fewer racing categories and opportunities for women, make progression difficult. She emphasizes the need for investment in underserved groups, stressing that fostering diversity and inclusion can strengthen the sport and grow its community. Alongside these insights, Joan connects cycling to broader values of process, repetition, and community building, drawing parallels to other disciplines like ballet and movement practices.

Takeaways

Creating inclusive cycling spaces — Efforts to address systemic challenges in women's cycling highlight the importance of structured opportunities and community support.

The magic of the velodrome — The velodrome offers an unmatched sensory experience, combining sound, motion, and closeness to the action.

Community and connection — Cycling builds bridges across diverse groups, creating bonds between families, athletes, and local communities.

Repetition and mastery — The parallels between cycling, ballet, and other disciplines emphasize the value of process and refinement.

Economic potential of cycling — Integrating cycling with local tourism and community planning can make it an economic driver for regions like the Lehigh Valley.

Outreach challenges — Expanding cycling’s reach requires engaging new audiences and addressing modern distractions and competition.

Resources

Valley Preferred Cycling Center — The premier venue for track cycling in Trexlertown, PA, hosting programs for all ages and skill levels.

Podcast: Talk of T-Town

Discover Lehigh Valley — A regional tourism organization collaborating with cycling events to promote local attractions.

Rodale Institute — A partner organization focused on sustainable farming and preserving the scenic roads used by cyclists.

TrainingPeaks — A platform for planning and tracking structured training programs, mentioned for its role in athletic preparation.

Artemis Racing group; unique and thorough onboarding process, really made it accessible

Cycling museum in Belgium: Tour of Flanders Museum

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ