In this episode, we dive into the world of elite mountain biking with Jamie Read, of Athlete Optimization, a renowned high-performance MTB coach who’s helped some of the sport’s top athletes reach their peak. With years of experience blending cutting-edge training techniques and mental performance strategies, Jamie has built a reputation for unlocking riders' full potential both on and off the bike. Jamie is also studying for his Masters in Sports and performance coaching. 

Join us as we explore Jamie's journey from his roots as a former British Army member, and sports and conditioning coach to becoming a sought-after coach, working with world-class pros and dedicated amateurs alike. We discuss the key elements of high-performance MTB training, some serious misconceptions of training, the importance of mental toughness, and how to overcome challenges that every rider faces. Whether you're a weekend warrior or an aspiring pro, Jamie's insights are packed with actionable advice to elevate your game.

In anticipation of the Deathgrip 2 release here is a rerelease of the episode if you missed it with exclusive Deathgrip 2 chat and his " retirement "

Brendan Fairclough known as BRENDOG is one of the biggest stars in MTB. The original free racer is back on the show to chat about "retirement" from World Cup racing..sort of, his new movie DEATHGRIP 2, racing alongside Sam Hill, and what the future may hold. 

Episode Sponsors:

AG1

AG1 is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase. All you have to do is visit drinkAG1.com/movingtheneedle

MANSCAPED

If you head over to MANSCAPED.com and use code " movingtheneedle" you'll get an exclusive 20% off and free shipping on your order. That's right, 20% off! So whether you're moving the needle in life or moving the needle on the trail, do it with style, precision, and the MANSCAPED Lawn Mower 5.0. Your jewels will thank you!

In this episode, we sit down with Clay Harper, the driving force behind the Monster Energy Pro Downhill Series and a Co-Founder of the US Open. A lifelong advocate for mountain biking. With a career spanning decades, Clay is an event organizer and ambassador for the sport.

Clay shares stories from his time working with elite riders, the challenges of organizing top-tier events, and his vision for the future of downhill racing.

Whether you’re a mountain biking enthusiast or new to the sport, you’ll love this behind-the-scenes look at one of its most influential leaders.

Episode Sponsors:

AG1

AG1 is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase. All you have to do is visit drinkAG1.com/movingtheneedle

MANSCAPED

If you head over to MANSCAPED.com and use code " movingtheneedle" you'll get an exclusive 20% off and free shipping on your order. That's right, 20% off! So whether you're moving the needle in life or moving the needle on the trail, do it with style, precision, and the MANSCAPED Lawn Mower 5.0. Your jewels will thank you!

Luca Shaw is one of the fastest and most skilled racers in the world of Downhill Mountain Biking. In a sport where risk-taking is often rewarded, Luca’s calculated approach sets him apart—and it’s paying off. Known as one of the nicest guys on the circuit, we dive into his experiences being mentored by two of the greatest to ever race, what it’s like to be teammates with Troy Brosnan, and his future goals in the sport. Enjoy this epic conversation!

Episode Sponsors:

AG1

AG1 is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase. There is a 90 day money back guarantee  All you have to do is visit drinkAG1.com/movingtheneedle

MANSCAPED

If you head over to MANSCAPED.com and use code " movingtheneedle" you'll get an exclusive 20% off and free shipping on your order. That's right, 20% off! So whether you're moving the needle in life or moving the needle on the trail, do it with style, precision, and the MANSCAPED Lawn Mower 5.0. Your jewels will thank you!

Anton Thelander was a mountain biking slopestyle phenom, rising to the pinnacle of the sport and sharing podiums with his childhood idols. Imagine reaching the summit of your dreams, only to have injuries derail your career and force you to step away at the tender age of 24. It’s a profound journey of self-discovery and resilience.

Episode Sponsors:

AG1

AG1 is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase. All you have to do is visit drinkAG1.com/movingtheneedle

MANSCAPED

If you head over to MANSCAPED.com and use code " movingtheneedle" you'll get an exclusive 20% off and free shipping on your order. That's right, 20% off! So whether you're moving the needle in life or moving the needle on the trail, do it with style, precision, and the MANSCAPED Lawn Mower 5.0. Your jewels will thank you!

Rampage 2024. What an incredible event! Join us as we welcome Cam McCaul, the freeride legend and on-site announcer, to the show to dissect all the action. This year marked a significant milestone with the introduction of a dedicated category for the ladies. We’ll analyze the winning runs and discuss some performances that we believe deserve higher scores. Don't miss this insightful breakdown!

The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Sven Martin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race throughout the year. We break down the final round in Mont-Saint-Anne, Canada.

This series is brought to you by Crankbrothers. Be sure to check out all the latest HERE 

Use discount code MOVINGTHENEEDLE for 25% off on a Pedal and Shoe Combo on their site HERE

Other Episode Sponsors:

AG1

AG1 is going to give you a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase. All you have to do is visit drinkAG1.com/movingtheneedle

Jaxson Riddle is a rising star in freeride mountain biking. Known for his fearless approach and innovative style, he is carving his own unique path in the sport, pushing boundaries and inspiring a new generation of riders at just 22 years old. Jaxson shares insights about Rampage and discusses the real challenges that often go unseen on social media. As a new dad, he is also dedicated to juggling his sports career with fatherhood. It’s truly a fascinating conversation.

The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Alan Milway is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race throughout the year. We break down the RD 6 of the World Cups from Loudenvielle.

This series is brought to you by Crankbrothers. Be sure to check out all the latest HERE 

Use discount code MOVINGTHENEEDLE for 25% off on a Pedal and Shoe Combo on their site HERE

Other Episode Sponsors:

AG1

AG1 is going to give you a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase. All you have to do is visit drinkAG1.com/movingtheneedle

MANSCAPED

If you head over to MANSCAPED.com and use code " movingtheneedle" you'll get an exclusive 20% off and free shipping on your order. That's right, 20% off! So whether you're moving the needle in life or moving the needle on the trail, do it with style, precision, and the MANSCAPED Lawn Mower 5.0. Your jewels will thank you!

The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and SvenMartin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race throughout the year. We break down the World Championships from Andorra. 

This series is brought to you by Crankbrothers. Be sure to check out all the latest HERE

Use discount code MOVINGTHENEEDLE for 25% off on a Pedal and Shoe Combo on their site HERE

Other Episode Sponsors:

AG1

AG1 is going to give you a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase. All you have to do is visit drinkAG1.com/movingtheneedle

MANSCAPED

If you head over to MANSCAPED.com and use code " movingtheneedle" you'll get an exclusive 20% off and free shipping on your order. That's right, 20% off! So whether you're moving the needle in life or moving the needle on the trail, do it with style, precision, and the MANSCAPED Lawn Mower 5.0. Your jewels will thank you!

Mark Rodgers, while being heavily involved in the Motocross world in recent years, has a history steeped in Mountain Bike Legends. His family was instrumental in bringing over the likes of Kovarik and Rennie, kick-starting their careers. Growing up in Big Bear, California, in its pinnacle of Downhill Racing and the US MTB scene of the late 1990s, he speaks of the drastic changes the sport has taken in that time, both good and bad, and the opportunity he has had to meet and manage some of the sport's greats.