When you think of a power couple, you might imagine two individuals, each influential or successful in their own right, complementing each other. This is precisely what Steve Vanderhoek and Kelsey Toevs have achieved.While rumours suggest that Kelsey won Steve over in high school, all of that occurred before they entered their professional careers or pursued elite-level hobbies. Now, they have grown into complementing each other's skills, with Steve’s riding and Kelsey’s photography.What distinguishes them from other filmmaker-athlete combos is that they are a married couple, both holding full-time jobs. Steve continues his role as a full-time firefighter, while Kelsey manages her residential photography business. This unique aspect means they don't rely on content income which reflects the genuine passion they pour into creating their remarkable content.Check out their latest creation, winning the 2023 Crankworx Dirt Diaries video competition, Ready or Not film.Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

Have you ever found yourself captivated by the allure of mountain landscapes on the big screen, wondering about the visionary minds behind the lens? Well, we did too.Join us as we delve into the world of the adventure film festival with the legend himself, Alan Formanek – the driving force behind the Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival (VIMFF), set to kick off on February 23 across multiple theatres including Centennial Theatre, Rio Theatre, Cinematheque, Roundhouse Community Centre, and Delbrook Community Centre.As a pioneer in modern free climbing hailing from Slovakia, Alan's unique perspective as a festival director and outdoor enthusiast adds unparalleled depth to the festival's narrative. Alongside his dedicated team, Alan has propelled VIMFF onto the global stage, showcasing films that have left audiences in awe at various film festivals worldwide, both in person and online.We’ll be peeking behind the curtains, exploring the films that have graced VIMFF, and gain exclusive insights into what the future holds for Alan and the VIMFF legacy.If you're as intrigued as we are, feel free to connect with VIMFF through their channels or drop us a message via our social media platforms. Get ready to embark on a cinematic journey like never before, where the mountains meet the silver screen.Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

Colombia is a bucket list destination for many road cyclists. With its high-altitude, challenging terrain, favorable weather, beautiful landscapes, and a cycling-friendly culture, it’s one of the best places in the world to ride a bike.Colombia Dreaming is about an idea that was hatched among friends to explore Colombia by road bike. To take on a challenging loop of the country, connecting the best cycling regions and do so in the spirit of adventure. In nine days of riding, Rich, Steve, Dave, Marty, Zack, Kevin and Daniele rode 1200km, up and down the Cordilleras mountains climbing over 25,000m. Starting out in Bogota, the guys descended to the Magdalena valley and took on the ultimate bucket list climb, Alto el Sifon (the alternative and superior Letras). With over 100km of fresh tarmac rising to 4100m of elevation, this climb will surely become one of the all-time classics. The route continued to Medellin and into the coffee lands before returning back to Bogota.In this audio diary, recorded by Steed Ride Club Leader, Rich Costello, you’ll follow the journey each day as the guy’s report from the roadside. There’s a recording from a walking tour of Medellin, where the guide shares his perspective of life under the rule of Pablo Escobar aka “Voldemort” (many locals don’t speak his name). You’ll hear the voices of the support crew, Andres and Sylvana as well as all the sounds of the countryside and towns the guys passed through on this epic trip.A big thank you goes to Atenea, Omar and Julian from Tingua Hidden Journeys who provided their expertise and contacts to bring the idea to life. To learn more about Hidden Journeys: https://www.hiddenjourneys.co/.Thank you for listening.Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

When you think of Haute Route, where does your mind wander? Does it lead you to envision the toughest amateur cycling event globally, a miniature Tour de France, or perhaps a fully supported cycling tour conquering renowned climbs?Whether you perceive it as a timed challenge or a journey of exploration, we are excited to have the Marketing Director for the French Cycling Federation, Marius Louvett, live from Paris, and one of our own from the Steed Cycles Ride Club family, Eric Hung, to unveil the unique allure of Haute Route events.Our expedition takes us through the heart of cycling's haven, traversing from the picturesque Alps to the awe-inspiring Pyrenees, where riders are tested on legendary peaks like Col du Tourmalet and Alpe d'Huez.Envision timed ascents, intricate team dynamics, and unwavering support, all converging to make Haute Route a cycling spectacle and event like no other. For those who missed our previous podcasts featuring the Steed Cycles team at the race last year, they offer valuable insights into every aspect of this extraordinary event.For those curious to explore more about the Haute Route events, visit https://hauteroute.fr/. Avoid a simple Google search for Haute Route, as it may direct you to an outdated website. Alternatively, feel free to reach out to them at hello@hauteroute.fr. The adventure awaits!Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

Ever wondered what makes a filmmaker's mind tick and how they can envision scenes before they come to life? Well, so did we. That's why Jarrad sat down with Gordie Rogers from The Grove Collective to discover the creative process behind his movies.Gordie, along with his team, Zac and Casey, has seen many of their films selected at various film festivals worldwide, including our local Vimff here in Vancouver, such as Only A Ride with Anthony Boussetta, one of our first podcast guests. We delve deep into a couple of Gordie's films and get insights into what's on the horizon for him.If you're curious to learn more about Gordie and The Grove Collective, feel free to reach out to them or drop us a message via our social media channels.Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

Colombia is a bucket list destination for many road cyclists.  With its high-altitude, challenging terrain, favorable weather, beautiful landscapes, and a cycling-friendly culture, it’s one of the best places in the world to ride a bike.Colombia Dreaming is about an idea that was hatched among friends to explore Colombia by road bike.  To take on a challenging loop of the country, connecting the best cycling regions and do so in the spirit of adventure.  In this episode, Steed Ride Club Leader, Rich Costello sets the scene by explaining how the idea came about.  We also hear from Atenea and Omar from the tourism agency, Tingua Hidden Journeys, who are providing their expertise and contacts to bring the idea to life.Part Two will take place on the road as Rich records an audio diary which will go live in a few weeks.If you’re interested, please follow the guys on Strava and reach out to them directly if you have any suggestions or recommendations.Steve, Marty, Daniele, Kevin, Zack, Dave, Rich Learn more about Hidden Journeys: https://www.hiddenjourneys.co/Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

From broken necks to races, trail days to road cycling, 2023 was a big year for us at Steed. As we head toward the end of the year, we're wrapping up the podcast with a special end of year episode featuring Steed mechanic Ash Kelly, media & marketing manager Sam James, and our usual podcast host Jarrad Connolly.2023 was one of our biggest and best years here at Steed, but it didn't come without its ups and downs, but mostly ups. Ash tells us about recovering from a broken neck earlier in the year, as well as taking part in the RideLab women's MTB festival and winning tire-change competitions. Sam gives us the lowdown on some of the community events we've been holding including Fivers, Trail days, huge gravel rides and a ton more. This episode is all about good times and reflecting back on our favourite things of 2023 - we had the best time recording this episode, so tune in and reminisce along with us. As always, thanks to all of our customers, brand partners and everybody else that made 2023 such an incredible year. We can't wait to see what 2024 brings!Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

What more is there to say? Wade Simmons has always been ahead of the curve when it comes to being an athlete and understanding that his primary role is to sell the lifestyle of mountain biking.From working in bike shops to being featured in just about every mountain bike film and winning the inaugural Red Bull Rampage in 2001, Simmons' impact on the mountain biking community has been profound. Beyond conquering the gnarliest trails, he has delved into guiding high-end MTB trips, authored guidebooks, and co-founded Godfather's Garage in 2022.Echoing his enduring ethos: "Lube it, send it," Wade Simmons remains a trailblazer, mentor, and the undisputed Godfather of mountain biking, seamlessly blending athleticism with a passion for selling the lifestyle that defines the sport.Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

Can you get stronger, fitter and faster the older you get in your adult life? If you answered no then we have Eric Hung here as living proof that you certainly can achieve this and more.Eric may be one of the most unassuming, nicest cyclists you will ever meet but don’t be fooled as you will hear he is also an absolute weapon on a bike, and one of the fastest masters category riders around. He proved this at the Haute Route Alps race earlier this year by finishing on the podium while also forging new friendships with his rivals.Eric has been a member of the steed cycles family for over 10 years, contributing in many ways from the Steed ride club, to the race team,and the cycling community in general. He is admired for his ability to balance work, life, and family, all seemingly taking priority but without sacrificing the others. Thanks Eric for taking the time to chat with us today.Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

"When you've spent your entire life defining yourself in one way and that identity suddenly disappears, who are you now?" - James Clear, Atomic HabitsThe answer to this question varies in its forms and depths but as we journey through life, it becomes essential to navigate these shifts in identity. The key lies in redefining oneself to preserve vital aspects of one's identity, even as specific roles or circumstances change.I invited Jennifer McIntosh to join me for a discussion on various topics, spanning from anxiety and identity to coping with the approaching winter. I'm stoked that we could arrange in November, a significant month for mental health awareness globally. Our aim is not only to raise awareness but also to start vital conversations and give people tools to support themselves and those around them.If you or someone you know would like to connect with Jenn, I encourage you to reach out to her. Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

When Jessie issued a call to go riding on a Facebook group this past May, she didn't anticipate receiving responses from around 70 people, especially but that's what happened. Since then, Shore Sirens' Discord server has grown to over 200 people.After a few smaller group rides, the Shore Sirens formed—a biking community for women and their allies, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of off-road cycling. Their mission is to bridge the gap for intermediate to advanced riders seeking a welcoming community.In a short period, they've accomplished quite a lot, organising remarkable events such as the recent Queer+ Allies MTB Ride, inviting everyone identifying as 2SLGTBQIA+ which was a significant milestone for mountain biking in British Columbia. They've also collaborated with local trail organisations to contribute to the maintenance of the trails they ride, along with the bonus of introducing North Point Brewing's Shore Sirens Lager.The Shore Sirens are valuable contributors for advancing the sport in the North Shore mountains we all cherish, we can't wait to see where they go from here.Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

Imagine this: competitors, never more than 100 metres apart, embark on a journey that involves biking, kayaking, climbing, and trekking, challenging every muscle of their bodies. Let's dive into the world of adventure racing with Cole and Yohann.In this high-stakes arena, there are no predefined routes or GPS devices, just raw navigational skills honed through intense but minimal map preparation. Dropping out is not an option as each member is a vital cog, pushing their limits to the extreme. And here's the catch – no limits on legs or distance! Transitions between activities serve as the sole opportunities for restocking supplies, offering a momentary respite in this relentless odyssey.Every decision holds weight, some races even offer solo competitions, adding a layer of individual grit to the already intense mix. Picture the solitude of the wild, the unending expanse of nature, and the unyielding spirit of adventure racers, propelling them to conquer the unknown.In the heart of this adventure, where determination meets the wilderness, the spirit of adventure racing comes alive, weaving a tale of perseverance and triumph.Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

If you're not familiar with Johnny before listening to this podcast, you will be afterward. The man exudes the most infectious energy I've ever personally encountered. With his unique Johnnyisms, motorcycle sound effects, and enormous heart, he has constructed a life centered around the cycling industry.As you'll soon discover, Johnny approaches everything he does with a positive perspective and his distinctive way of describing things. This leads us down various tangents of his life, from the numerous times he's bumped his head to his obsession with Strava, and one of his cherished mottos, "Why spoil a great ride by pinning a number on your back?"If you'd like to make a donation to the Hayman Classic Future Champions, which we discuss in the podcast, please click the link. Your contribution goes a long way in helping young cycling athletes achieve their dreams.Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

They say Haute Route is the toughest amateur cycling event out there. This August, eight members of the Steed Cycles Masters Road Race Team travelled to France to ride the Haute Route Alps (mini Tour de France for amateur cyclists). Starting in Megeve and finishing in Nice, the route covers 750km (20,000m of climbing) over 7 days and passes some of the most iconic climbs in road cycling.One of the riders, Rich Costello captured recordings from the team throughout the week to compile this audio diary. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to take part in an Haute Route event, then this episode is well worth a listen. Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

Ben Carr, the owner of Innovative Fitness North Vancouver, didn't begin his career with aspirations of becoming a fitness industry leader. In an unexpected turn of events, he found himself engrossed in conversation at the Innovative Fitness booth during a career fair but the idea of being perceived as a mere "glorified pool boy in the gym" left him apprehensive.However, as conversation unfolded, Ben's perspective shifted as he realized that his impact could extend far beyond demonstrating how to lift weights. His capacity to assist individuals in reaching their goals outside the gym became evident, particularly in the Sea to Sky corridor, where such support is highly valued.Advancing a few years, a remarkable evolution occurred. Ben, alongside the Innovative Fitness team, plays an instrumental role in nurturing a vibrant and cohesive community. This community not only empowers individuals to achieve their goals but also provides a nurturing environment for mentorship and growth.If you would like to  get in contact with Ben hit him up at ben@innovativefitness.com, and to find out about Bikes 'n' Beers head to www.bikesnbeers.ca/Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

Dive into the world of Geoff Livingston, a passionate mountain biker turned content creator. His journey is a fascinating blend of pedal-powered adventures and creative storytelling.Geoff's path to content creation wasn't planned; it evolved organically. Through collaborations with skilled athletes, he honed his camera skills while enhancing his own riding techniques. Cancer disrupted his trajectory, prompting deep introspection. This setback catalyzed a renewed dedication to capturing the thrill of biking and sharing it with others.Geoff's narrative conveys resilience and growth, offering insights for emerging creators. His story champions the significance of hands-on experience, camaraderie, and adaptability. With every video.Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

Dale Stone is creating a name for himself as a content creator on Youtube and doing it his own way. Unlike most he isn’t going down the Vlog, DIY or Scripted route but riding trails we all love and sharing them with the world. As you will hear he is able to keep a healthy love and relationship with the sport by not stressing on the structured style of most youtubers but allowing his consistent and very technical riding create the adventure for the viewer. This summer he has taken a break from his engineering career in the bicycle industry to relax and focus on adventures and riding.If you would like to get in contact with Dale you can reach out to him via his Youtube channel or instagramThank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

Greasy, rough and long - that was the general consensus of the riders of Fiver #3 sponsored by Steed Cycles and Race Face. The Fivers are a local race series held by the NSMBA every summer in a mini enduro format that sees racers tackle a course usually comprised of three descents with the occasional climb thrown in for good measure.Held on alternating Thursday evenings and sponsored by a different local business each time, they're an awesome opportunity for a bit of casual racing but more importantly they're a chance for us to get together and celebrate the amazing mountain biking community we have here on the North Shore.Jarrad had a wander around our après event after fiver #3 to chat with some of the racers and volunteers about how the race went. Hear it straight from the racer's mouths! Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

Jake Johnstone is reshaping the way most riders are looking at coaches with their mental game becoming as much of a priority as the physical game. He doesn’t come from a high profile racing career like a lot of the coaches that you will find in the sea to sky but comes from letting his bike take him on adventures which led him to Squamish, BC to pursue his coaching career and as you will hear he knows his stuff. After a few years with Endless Biking he is out on his own creating a new experience for all levels of riders to excel at their riding with his coaching company The Mind Mountain.Jake has also started his podcast Grit with Wisdom to help share his and others knowledge from their experiences. Once again he is doing it his way with sharing stories that will enhance the listeners riding experiences. If you would like to get in contact with Jake you can reach out to him via his website or instagram and if you want to listen to more of Jake's stories take a listen to his podcast, Grit with Wisdom.Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.

Ash Kelly is one of the most free and independent women out there, and that seed of freedom and independence was first sowed on the farm she lived on, riding her bike into and around town gave her that first taste that only a bicycle can bring, and she's been in love ever since.As her freedom grew on the farm and then moving to the city and working for MEC her desire to have an impact in the community also grew. After many years at MEC her desire for community impact led her to journalism which gave her the power to continue to feed that want for greater community. After several years in journalism, Ash felt the need to pursue her love for bicycles and community, which led to her and business partner Adam to open a bicycle service center - Dialed Bike Service. Now after 2 years of Dialed being in business she has started to branch out to help create and aid in multiple community projects and events refilling her cup and feeding that desire to have a greater impact on the community. Ash is genuinely one of the most passionate, driven, eclectic and skilled people we know. If you want to get in contact with Ash she is in the workshop at Steed Cycles most weekends and at Dialed Bike Service during the week. Thank you for listening Get in touch with us via Steed Cycles or via our Instagram Hosted by Jarrad Connolly Produced by Sam James Listen to other episodes here.