Girls on wheels

Pod introImagine living with conditions that mean the thing that you love to do that brings you peace, sanity and good mental health is also the thing that will then knock you off your feet.Today I talk with Katie Love about living with EDS and TOS and despite this, having the fortitude to send it on her mountain bike and do what she can, when she can. We chat about the layers of thought that go into daily decisions and activity and the constant balancing act she is navigating in regards to her energy, body and mind.Katie shares how mountain biking allows her to blend in with the crowd, she is not ill Katie when she is on her bike, she is just Katie.  It almost provides a shield from pity and self consciousness, something I am certain we can all relate to in some shape or form. Katie is a bloody trooper and this episode will inspire the socks off you.The Guest: I am using cycling as my escape and therapy due to having multiple conditions that effects me physically and mentally and aim to inspire those like me to get out and ride when you can. Follow Katie : @the_exhausted_cyclist on Instagram , @KaTiE_lOvE_ on Twitter You can check out Katie's blogs here: Katie's Website Take away's from the episode:The fortitude of humans is incredible. When you are healthy you are free. Bikes allow you to blend in with the crowd, they allow you to just be you, you are not what holds you back when you are on a bike, you are free. This offers the best escapism from reality which is often needed when you are dealing with everything life throws at you.  The thought processes around juggling your energy are exhausting, it is not only the 'obvious' that affects people with health conditions, the mind game is by far the biggest battle and so draining. Useful Links:You can read a blog about Katie where she talks about life for Rider Resilience Katie Love - A Love Story — Rider ResilienceTo find out more about Ehlers danlos syndrome (EDS) check out: What is EDS? - The Ehlers Danlos SocietyTo find out more about thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) check out:  Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, TreatmentTo find out more about dysautonomia check out: Dysautonomia International:If you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/  Trail birds, a midlands based group with members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/.  Cycle sistas are based in Essex https://www.instagram.com/the_cycle_sistas/?hl=enGirls Alive are a community aimed at getting women outdoors and hold regular mtb rides in Surrey- https://www.facebook.com/girlsaliveuk/?locale=en_GBGet following GOW podcast at https://www.instagram.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ or https://www.facebook.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ and Shawnee https://www.instagram.com/_shredlikeagirl/   for news on group rides and social events.  The Pod:Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://www.girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/girls-on-wheels-4953647 and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app too so you don’t miss the next episode.Huge thanks to the pods number one supporter Shawnee at Shred Like a Girl.  Go check out her awesome womens mtb clothing and join the community https://shredgirl.com/ Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I have the pleasure of chatting with Liv Taylor, a 12 year old superstar who is setting her sights on World class titles in Downhill Mountain Biking and is on track to get there.She is fearless, dedicated, determined and humble, and has recently been chosen for Madison Saracen's Youth Development Team, an amazing opportunity where they nurture and develop the talents of younger riders in a bid to create World class athletes.Not only that, Liv has the support of mountain biking royalty such as Tahnee Seagrave, Rachel Atherton, Veron Sandler and Becci Skelton who have undoubtedly inspired her to be the best after seeing that raw talent come from the little ripper shredding the likes of Revolution Bike Park!It has not been easy though. British Cycling's race structure meant Liv had to 'wait around' in effect because despite her talent, she was not old enough to race in the races or categories that matched her talent. Here from James, Liv's Dad about this and what they had to do to get Liv to be able to race. I want to be like Liv when I grow up.The Guest: Liv got on a bike at Cannock Chase when she was 8 years old, it was clear she had a natural talent and overcame every feature in no time. An impromptu visit to an uplift venue in Wales gave Liv the downhill bug and she has never looked back. Entering her first races at 417 bike park wetted her appetite for competition and she has gone from strength to strength and is now on track for world class podiums. You can follow and support Liv and see all the crazy things she rides over on instagram: @Livshreds on Instagram Take away's from the episode:It has not been an easy time for Liv to get the permission to race to match her talent. British Cycling do not appear to make it easy for young talent in Downhill Biking to excel and progress, Liv was left 'waiting' around, unable to race because of her age. What are we missing out on as a country by having this structure in racing? "If you're good enough, you are old enough", is the approach every other country seems to adopt in terms of allowing talented youngsters to race. The support system around you when you compete in this sport is so key to nurturing talent. Role models are vital for younger riders to provide support, inspiration and bring on progression.We love bikes.Useful Links:For info on the British Downhill series 2023 check out http://bit.ly/425j8kmTo follow Liv’s success and race results you can check out Roots and Rain http://bit.ly/3lcXJVNTo read more about the Madison Saracen Development Team check out; http://bit.ly/3FrlDnnIf you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook http://bit.ly/3mLKkV4Trail Birds, a Midlands based group with members all over http://bit.ly/3JGIpdr Cycle Sistas are based in Essex https://bit.ly/3TidzLnGirls Alive are a community aimed at getting women outdoors and hold regular MTB rides in Surrey- http://bit.ly/3Tq4Eb2Dame Cycling Forest of Dean are a women's MTB group who hold regular weekly rides for all abilities around beautiful FOD.  http://bit.ly/3TmuNYiGet following GOW podcast at https://www.instagram.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ or https://www.facebook.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ and Shawnee https://www.instagram.com/_shredlikeagirl/   for news on group rides and social events.  The Pod:Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://www.girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/girls-on-wheels-4953647 and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app too so you don’t miss the next episode.Huge thanks to the pods number one supporter Shawnee at Shred Like a Girl.  Go check out her awesome women's MTB clothing and join the community: https://shredgirl.com/ Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pod introToday I talk with Rich from Western Bike Events, a new MTB enduro series set in South Wales for 2023.  We talk about how he set up this series and get an insight into the amount of work that goes into it.   Rich wants to get more women to sign up to his enduro and we have an open chat about the barriers women can experience when thinking about entering races and all the awesome things Rich is doing to combat them. We also discuss the complete lack of representation from people of colour in the sport.  This is a conversation I will be having in a lot more depth in future episodes, led by the wonderful Janine. We get Rich’s perspective on the constraints a race organiser experiences in implementing the solutions we think would be really easy and he removes a lot of blind spots. It is a longer episode than usual however it is bursting with value so well worth a listen.If you are a race or event organiser, have a female in your life who rides bikes, or work for a MTB brand and want to reach more people of colour and female riders with your marketing then this episode is for you.  I learnt so much from it.  Check out the written Q&A and the end of the show notes. Rich gave in depth answers to the audience questions that were submitted on social media. Absolute GOLD.The Guest: Richard is a mountain bike enduro event organiser who’s responsible for Western Bike Events Ltd, a company which he owns equally with his wife, Sara. For his first year he’s focussed on delivering an enduro series across South Wales, the Valleys Enduro Series. The VES is a mixed series where the women’s categories are the same as the mens categories equally. He plans to grow the series and diversify his events.Originally from Cumbria where his love of mountains and interest in the outdoors was sparked from an early age. He’s owned a mountain bike in one form or another for most of his life; however, it wasn't until 2006 that the mtb bug finally bit hard. He’s married to Sara and has two children. You can follow him: Richard 's Facebook group , Richard 's Facebook page , @Western-bike-events on Instagram.Take away's from the episode:“You can not be what you can not see”.   There are barely any ‘everyday’ female rider photographs to use in promo for racing and even less representing people of colour. Rich is open to chats with anyone who would like to provide some decent action bike photos from these underrepresented groups.Although we think the solutions to the barriers we discuss are straightforward, there is more to it when making things a reality;  practical, logistical and financial constraints all play a part.  It is always worth considering this. Rich spoke about barely seeing any women come forward for dig days.  He would love to see this change. We love bikes.Useful Links:Check out Rich’s race series https://www.western-bike-events.wales/ If you fancy joining in some races to get connected and try something new you can check out British Cycling events page for upcoming mountain bike races https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/events?zuv_bc_discipline_filter_id=7 and also check out Si entries https://www.sientries.co.uk/ If you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/  Trail birds, a midlands based group with members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/.  Cycle sistas are based in Essex https://www.instagram.com/the_cycle_sistas/?hl=enGirls Alive are a community aimed at getting women outdoors and hold regular mtb rides in Surrey- https://www.facebook.com/girlsaliveuk/?locale=en_GBGet following GOW podcast at https://www.instagram.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ or https://www.facebook.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ and Shawnee https://www.instagram.com/_shredlikeagirl/   for news on group rides and social events.  The Pod:Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://www.girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/girls-on-wheels-4953647 and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app too so you don’t miss the next episode.Huge thanks to the pods number one supporter Shawnee at Shred Like a Girl.  Go check out her awesome women's MTB clothing and join the community https://shredgirl.com/ Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa. Q&A answered by RichLAND / STARTING IT UPHow did you get the private land to hold races on?I had no network or contacts to start with. This resulted in loads of mind mapping and brainstorming. Regularly trying out search terms on google and following up leads. Weighing up pros and cons  using a weighted scoring matrix: is it accessible? Easy to get to? NRW land or no? Council land or no? Price?. We then arranged these into a priority list and followed up. What happens to the trails once the series is over?  Are they permanent trails or only for the Enduro?Some trails cannot be used outside of an event. Walters Arena is a dangerous place where high speed rally car testing happens through the week and regular off road events happen on the weekend, this would need booking to arrange. On the other hand, the farmer at Taff Buggy is open minded and will allow access if people get in touch with him first.The two races at Afan are trail centre only, you can ride these at any time of the year, just check with NRW if there are any diversions.What was the biggest challenge getting started when you had the land? Remaining disciplined to keep building. I’ve spent every weekend and some weeks trail building long after my motivation had gone. So, keeping the vision and staying disciplined in keeping on track with the build.How did you manage the difficult stage of paying for planning vs getting funding, (classic chicken and egg scenario) you often can’t do one without the other, how did you overcome this?Walking a delicate line of funding. This year we have had no financial sponsorship. We’re always watching entries vs purchases vs operating costs. Don’t underestimate how much it costs to travel!What made you want to start it?I just want to get more people racing and enjoying the thrill of being between the tape. Racing is good because it makes us train, we form social groups and can be a great mental health release. Plus, I want to offer kids racing for free in the future and offer ambassador opportunities.What is your favourite thing / worst thing about running it? Hearing how stoked people are to ride / honestly, I am scared that people are going to turn their noses up and not race anymore.What tips would you give others that are thinking of starting their own MTB race series?Get in touch with a British Enduro Mountain Bike Association (BEMBA) affiliated organiser (like me). Shadow the organiser at a couple of events, learn how much admin and planning in the background is needed. Understand how to write a risk assessment and what forms your operating envelope. Understand your duty of care.The racing / businessHow are you planning to run it?  As a club, CIC, anything else? We’re set up as a registered company in England and Wales. Company registration number 14399528.Accessibility What are your plans for truly making it accessible to all?  What do you think that entails and how will that actually benefit all?I think it comes down to Equality and Diversity, the law.Equality means we make reasonable adjustments to include people with protected characteristics. Inherently, cycling is a middle class white passtime and this needs to change. I am aware we need more people of colour in our promo but hard to find photo’s on roots and rain. I’m open to working with people of colour so please get in touch. You cannot be what you cannot see! I see diversity as using promo material and inclusive language to make women feel more included. Plus, I think this falls on the previous point about people of colour in cycling, we need more basically. How do we do that? Admittedly it is easy to find a willing white volunteer willing to dig; I now understand it’s going to need me and Sara reaching out to a more diverse audience.For example, we’ve made reasonable adjustments with equal categories to women and men. Which means a woman in her 60’s can compete against other women in a similar age bracket. Same goes for prizes, if I get a category sponsor I tell them we’re doing things equally so the same prizes for men and women. Although money is not a protected characteristic, we’ve also run an extensive early bird offer for the last 6 months with some really cheap entry rates, to allow people from low income backgrounds the opportunity to take part.For disabled racing we need to sit down with disabled athletes and get them in to test our tracks. If it works then hell yeh, lets get more disabled folk in. What is your intention with social media and marketing?  Are you conscious of who is going in your promo material?  Women, ages, People of colour? We try to keep it 50/50 however trying to find pictures of your everyday woman on a mtb at a race is tricky. We’re hopeful this will change after round 1 where we have 37 women signed up. Going through previous photos on roots and rain, kinda reflects the low participation in past history, which is a shame. Not just for women by the way but also people of colour.What are you doing to encourage more women to enter? Have you considered how you will get more people of colour to enter?This podcast! We’re using open and inclusive language for example; not referring to a vest or sleeveless top as wife beater. We hold back entries for women, so if we do sell out we can offer entries. Women only portaloo. A stretch goal is to offer free racing for children in the future.People of colour, we need more of you racing so I can use your wonderful photos in my promo. If you want to help promote then get in touchWhat is the female to male ratio in race entries so far?Really low, R1 10% R2 2% R3 1% the rest according to the stats have no women signed upDo you have appropriate age categories for females U18, or are they going in one big group? As this is unfair on younger riders and puts off girls from entering.We’ve split this one up, there's no way a 11 yo girl is the same biologically as a 17yo, right? Will there be female only toilets? Going by the ratios we will have 1 specifically for women accessible with a combination lock. We also have a disabled and baby changer porta loo.What steps are you taking to be inclusive to all women, younger riders, people of colour, what makes you different in comparison to other race organisers?Equal cats, sensitive to language, female only toilet on event hq, roughly 50/50 split of women in promo, tried to get events close to places where perhaps the non riding partner can visit.Could we do better, always, are we thinking about doing more? Absolutely.Counter intuitive but there are other well established organisers doing a lot more for women. Southern Enduro and PMBA both do a great job. Also tweedlove are making changes.Would you be willing to have a feedback form after events asking what went well, what didn’t go well together views and be proactive?  This has never happened before and people usually get told to email in.  100% feedback is a gift.Have you considered having an inclusivity policy and a women's rep, people of colour rep to share the views? There’s two directors in Western Bike Events, Sara my wife is in the background doing all the heavy lifting with logistics. So, we both bounce ideas off of each other and discuss what is reasonable and what's unreasonable.We both come from the Army Sara had 15 years experience as a Combat Medical Technician and I’m an engineering manager. We’re both in tune with D&I however, let's hear from other viewpoints, let's make sure we’re not forming biases.THE EVENTHow can people get involved and volunteer?Email on us info@western-bike-events.wales or check out our website.Where is south wales is it?We have 6 events across South Wales, for a quick reference we have a map at the bottom of our website homepage.Can you offer suggestions of campsites and accommodation for those travelling from afar?  We have free camping at all of our events. Because things like air bnb and pitch up are so good, we will leave that to participants to search for their requirements. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I chat with Suzy Lacey about her awesome bike adventures and achievements over the last 18 years. Suzy has raced downhill world cups, 4x champs, Crankworx and hits humongous jumps to name a few.  She has watched the mountain bike scene change over the years and seen more and more progression in female riders entering the sport.    Suzy shares advice on how to progress your riding, lets us in on the secret to her jumping success, reveals what still scares her on her bike and talks about how bikes are such a huge part of her life, she isn’t sure where she would be without them.Her passion and love of bikes shines through and she will get you reaching for that hardtail and heading to your nearest pump track quicker than you can say cased it.    The Guest: I have been riding bikes since I was 12 so around 18 years. I have raced multiple disciplines from 4-cross racing, BMX, downhill racing and now do the odd enduro race for fun and for the social side of it. After racing 10 years or so I realised i wasn’t enjoying biking anymore as the serious side and pressure took the joy away. It took me sometime to find out why I picked up a bike as a little girl before I raced. After reflecting i realised that biking saved my life, helped me get through so many bad times and was a release for me as a kid and is still now. I’m a supported rider for whyte bikes, feel super grateful to have their support and now I ride bikes to have fun for my mental health, to socialise, I love jumping big jumps, helping my friends and fellow riders conquer their jumping goals. I love to inspire both men and women, both young and old at all levels to pick up their bike, go out the woods and have fun! I try to portray this by using my social media. You can watch Suzy in awe on YouTube and follow on insta: Suzanne (aka suzy) on YouTube @Suzanne_Lacey on Instagram Take away's from the episode:Practice, consistency and patience are what you need to master jumping your bike.  Zero fear and a MASSIVE pair of big girl pants would also not go amiss. No matter how good you are on a bike, there is always something that scares you and always something you can learn.  We are all human after all.Knowing when to walk around a feature is just as important as pushing yourself to try it.  Listen to yourself, don’t risk it for a biscuit if you are not feeling it. We love bikes.Useful Links:If you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/  Trail birds, a midlands based group with members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/.  Cycle sistas are based in Essex https://www.instagram.com/the_cycle_sistas/?hl=enGirls Alive are a community aimed at getting women outdoors and hold regular mtb rides in Surrey- https://www.facebook.com/girlsaliveuk/?locale=en_GBGet following GOW podcast https://www.instagram.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ or on facebook https://www.facebook.com/girlsonwheelspodcast and Shawnee https://www.instagram.com/_shredlikeagirl/  for news on group rides social events.  The Pod:Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode.Huge thanks to the pods number one supporter Shawnee at Shred Like a Girl.  Go check out her awesome womens mtb clothing and join the community https://shredgirl.com/ Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is it really like to be a female in this mountain bike world?  Find out Zoe's perspective, a working mum who loves her bike, has a young daughter who races mtb and is part of a female charity empowering more women to get outdoors.   Zoe gives a broad view of her experiences and shares her knowledge and passion around closing the gender gap in our beloved sport.Today I have a great chat with Zoe Woodman about a whole array of things that come up as a female in the mountain biking world.  Zoe gives her insightful perspective as an “everyday” mountain biker and mum of a young daughter who races mtb. There is so much gold in this podcast for brands, event and race organisers, British Cycling and guys out there who want to understand a female perspective of our shared passion and take some action to create change.   We chat about Project Evolve and other events that are doing great things to get more women into the sport including the charity Zoe volunteers for; Girls Alive.  A womens biking club based in Surrey.   The Guest: Zoe is a keen mountain biker and so is her family. Luckily they all love bikes. Mai, Zoe's daughter is pretty damn good on a bike and is entering races. Zoe is also a big part of Girls Alive, an active female group empowering women to get outdoors and change their life.You can follow Zoe and her families mountain bike life on Insta or youtube.@Woodmanmtb on Instagram Zoe on YouTube Take away's from the episode:There is a chaperone policy for under 16 year olds at races where an adult can accompany them on the tracks and follow them down.  Perfect for enduros where younger riders take part or any race where the rider is worried.  There are a million small changes and positive action and intention that can be followed to create a shift and change in the gender differences in the mountain bike world.  This will take time but it requires everyone to take action.    You have to follow Aneela McKenna. Aneela is chair of British Cycling diversity and inclusivity advisory group and is doing amazing things in the mtb world. https://www.instagram.com/mrsgowherescotland/We love bikes.Useful Links:You can check out Girls Alive on facebook - https://www.facebook.com/girlsaliveuk/?locale=en_GBIf you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/ and Trail birds, a midlands based group with members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/ and get following GOW podcast @girlsonwheelspodcast and Shawnee @_shredlikeagirl for news on social events.  The Pod:Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode.Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Superhuman episode: The power of two wheels.  How mountain biking allows Bex to feel amazing, despite living with MS.Today I chat with Becky Coombes about MS, multiple sclerosis;  from diagnosis to a first date and then falling in love (with mountain biking first, obvs).  Becky shares about how mountain biking now plays a pivotal role in managing her symptoms, getting through rough periods and keeping her mental health in check.Becky shares her story which will resonate with a lot of people facing or living with an illness or disease.  We laugh a lot and I talk about some of my experience with cancer as there are a lot of parallels.  Becky’s attitude is sure to inspire.  Get stuck into the pod to hear the full convo, it was such a good episode to do and I admire Bex for coming forward and offering to share this very personal story.  If you feel inspired after listening, please share the love over on the instagram or facebook post.  We would love to hear from you. https://www.instagram.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/  The Guest: Becky lives next to the Peak District with her boyfriend Shaun. At weekends she can be found pedalling up the rolling hills giving everyone a run for their money. She loves mountain biking and the challenge it gives her. When she can't get out on her bike, she will feed her obsession by looking for bike bits online. Becky now wants to share her experience with MS in hope to inspire others. You can follow her on instagram @bex_c_mtb on Instagram   Take away's from the episode:MS is typically diagnosed in younger people and affects people in different ways.  Treatment is offered to manage the disease.Hobbies really do offer an escape and focus when you are facing adversity.  They allow a huge sense of accomplishment and remind you just how incredible your body is.  Mountain biking is obviously the best hobby. Obvs.  We love bikes. Useful Links:You can learn more about MS here https://www.mssociety.org.uk/If you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/ and Trail birds, a midlands based group but have members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/ and get following GOW podcast @girlsonwheelspodcast and Shawnee @_shredlikeagirl for news on social events.   The Pod:Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.   If you liked what you heard please rate the pod and leave me a review on podchaser and the app you listen on.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance. Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode. Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mountain biking isn’t just about riding your bike.  It is so much more than that.  It becomes part of your identity, creates a sense of belonging and gives you access to a ready made community, no matter where you are. This is what I chat about with Mishy, a snowboard fanatic and outdoor lover.  Mishy shares what it was like coming over to the UK from Slovakia 25 years ago and settling into a new country.    Mishy was introduced to mountain biking when in the UK and shares how being part of the community has allowed her to feel a sense of belonging and somewhere where she “fits in”.  Something she admits can feel difficult at times for her.  Mishy shares how bikes have been an escape for her during difficult times and continue to provide that much needed mental reset in the land of no snow and a lot of rain.  The Guest: Mishy is an adventurous soul, she loves her campervan, dogs, snowboarding, mountain biking and anything in between. Happiest when outdoors and sharing her passions she runs an adventure company and lives the dream teaching people to stay upright on snow and exploring her beautiful Slovakian homeland. You can check it out here https://mist-adventures.com/ and follow her on socials: https://www.instagram.com/mistadventures/Take away's from the episode:Mountain biking gives you a ready-made community no matter where you go.  If you love the sport, you will ALWAYS find like minded riders to share the passion with, this can help you settle in to new locations and build friendships. Being good at snowboarding does not necessarily mean you are good on a bike. (Mishy’s words). Lol.Sh*t zips are a thing.We love bikes.LinksWant to go snowboarding or skiing somewhere different?  Check out Mishy’s adventure company https://mist-adventures.com/ she is a snowboard instructor and runs holidays in Slovakia.Mountain bike groups create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  Check out MTB Chix and Trails who are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/ and Trail birds, a midlands based group but have members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/   and get following Shawnee @_shredlikeagirl and GOW podcast @girlsonwheelspodcast for news on social events.  The Pod:Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  If you liked what you heard please leave me a review on podchaser.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode.Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“But what happens if I lose mountain biking?”This is the question this week's guest; Sarah Munton, asked herself when making the brave decision to leave a relationship and move back home to the UK from New Zealand.  Faced with this prospect and trying to go it alone when back home, Sarah openly shares, how despite exposing herself to the fear of being seen as having no friends and lonely, she was vulnerable anyway and reached out on facebook and got responses that influenced the course of her mountain bike journey and life, for the better.   An inspiring example of the power of bravery and vulnerability and how women's mountain bike groups prove crucial in enabling people to continue living life on 2 wheels.   Oh yeah and coming back from breaking your neck. The Guest: I got roped into mountain biking by my partner at the time, back in 2018 when I was living in New Zealand. 4 years later I'm now 28 and mountain biking is such an amazing part of my life I couldn't do without, I've made some great friends, had incredible adventures and one broken neck, but the last one I'll try not to do again 😅You can follow Sarah's bravery and biking escapades over on instagram @munton_biker on Instagram and also check out the Seekers Cult the rad clothing brand she represents https://www.instagram.com/seekerscult/?hl=enTake aways from the episode:We can sometimes feel reliant on one person for mountain biking and that can leave us in a tough predicament when considering if that relationship is something we want to continue with.  With that in mind it is far healthier to create independence around your sport (life) so it ticks along, irrespective of who may come and go. Women's mountain bike groups create a space for connection, belonging and friendship. Life is better when you share it with people.  Reach out, be vulnerable, no one is going to think anything bad, everyone has been there at some point.  Push yourself out of your comfort zone and be brave, it will pay off.  A great tip from Sarah is to reach out on social media first, create that connection and then arrange to meet.  Great if the idea of going to a social ride without knowing a soul makes you need a nervous poo.   It is possible to ride your bike again after a serious injury if you apply the right mindsetSarah is cool as a cucumber, both on and off the bike.Women's mountain bike groups:Here are some popular women's groups with a wide reach.   If you are struggling and riding on your own and feeling a bit meh about that, join your local group, take a look at the next event and go, but even better put a post out.  Check out MTB Chix and Trails who are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/ Trail birds are a midlands based group but have members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/   Dame cycling in the Forest of Dean, they are usually out every weekend: https://www.facebook.com/groups/367798690071925/Bike Park Wales Women's Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1885204474959633The cycle sistas https://www.facebook.com/thecyclesistas/ Also check out British Cycling and their breeze rides, they now do rides for mountain biking and they are a great way to join a chilled group, there will always be someone there as the ride leader will be guiding it  https://www.letsride.co.uk/breeze Check out the instagram post for this episode for more suggestions from the community https://www.instagram.com/girlsonwheelspodcast/ The Pod:Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  If you liked what you heard please leave me a review on the app you listen on and rate it, also jump on podchaser and leave a review on there,  it will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance and I will be eternally grateful.Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode.Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can mountain biking help your mental health and why are women only events and communities so important in the mountain bike world?This is what I chat about with the hilarious Shawnee in today's episode.  Shawnee is the founder of Shred Like A Girl, a women only mountain bike clothing brand and global community of girl shredders, originally from the land of sunshine and giant spiders, Straya’, she made the move to the UK back in December 2021 and is here to stay.  Shawnee openly shares her struggles with her mental health and we talk about how mountain biking has offered her the perfect remedy to those dark days.   We chat about the escapism and release that getting on your bike gives you and how despite the battles you can have with yourself about getting out,  when you do, it isn’t long before the good stuff kicks in.We also talk about how women only mountain bike groups and events played a vital role in Shawnee forging connections and helping her settle into her new life in the UK.  We give context around why these groups are so important to women in mountain biking, so any guy out there who hears themselves say…”but what about male only groups” can think a bit deeper about that comment and gain some insights and change their thoughts about this being about them and “anti-men”.   The Guest: Shawnee has built Shred like a girl to make sure there is women's clothing out there for everyone, no matter what shape or size.  You can check out Shawnee's Website and find her on socials; Shawnee's Facebook page and   @_shredlikeagirl on Instagram where you can be a part of her ever growing community. Take away's from the episode:You can’t beat a mountain bike ride to escape your own mind.  There is no room for thought when you are on your bike.  It might feel like the biggest struggle to get out there, but it is worth it.Women only mountain bike groups create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  Check out MTB Chix and Trails who are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/ and Trail birds, a midlands based group but have members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/   and get following Shawnee and GOW podcast for news on social events.  Check out the key points in the episode below:00:00 - Show me the love - How did Shawnee fall in love with mountain biking?09:20 - One of the visions behind Shred Like A Girl and an experience at Dyfi Bike Park13:19 - We chat about what can stop a girl getting into mountain biking18:37 - Why womens groups proved so important for Shawnee27:15 - Mountain biking and mental health42:55 - Anxiety, a car journey, and winning a big ass mind battle49:15 - Shawnee’s biggest small win on her bike53:13 - Sh*t the bed58:35 - Quick fire questions01:05:35 - SquidsHelp:If you are struggling with your mental health you can check out the following for ways you can get help:https://www.thecalmzone.net/ https://www.mind.org.uk/From experience the best thing you can do is tell someone how you are feeling, it is okay to not be okay. Be brave and reach out.  You can always get in touch with me too, drop me a message on socials.The Pod:Don’t forget to head on over to Girls on wheels website and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  If you have liked what you've heard then please leave me a review on podchaser.  It will help the show to grow and make me do a happy dance.Don’t forget to hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you don’t miss the next episode..... Next time I chat with an enduro queen about getting more women into racing.  What can the event organisers do better to get more girls signed up?  Tune in next week to hear our thoughts around this.Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.