The Endurance Studio

Dylan Turner
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Wilderness
  • Updated Monthly

A mobile podcast studio chasing down endurance athletes. Stories, podcasts, and endurance content straight from rides and races. Hosted by ultra endurance cyclist, bikepacker, and runner Dylan Turner.

  1. Jeff Kerkove: Two Decades of Endurance Racing Lessons #58

    1d ago

    Jeff Kerkove: Two Decades of Endurance Racing Lessons #58

    ✨ Support the Podcast ✨ In this episode of The Endurance Studio, I sit down with ultra-endurance mountain biker Jeff Kerkove to talk about nearly two decades of bikepacking racing, from the Colorado Trail Race to international events like Silk Road Mountain Race and Atlas Mountain Race. We dive into race strategy, sleep deprivation, resupply tactics, gear choices, pacing mistakes, and the mental side of pushing through massive distances. Jeff also shares stories from races like Stagecoach 400, Doom, Vapor Trail 125, Pinyons and Pines, and more — along with lessons learned from years of DNFs, big wins, and hard-earned experience in the ultra-endurance world. ---------------- https://www.instagram.com/jeffkerkove https://www.instagram.com/ergonbike https://www.instagram.com/topeak https://www.instagram.com/rideshimano https://www.instagram.com/ridefoxbike https://www.instagram.com/dtswiss https://www.instagram.com/maxxisbike https://www.instagram.com/guenergylabs ---------------- (00:00:00) Episode Introduction and Pinyons & Pines Race Context (00:02:02) Race Strategy: Heat, Pacing, Nutrition, and Competition (00:04:16) Breck Epic and the Evolution of Supported Bikepacking (00:11:32) Preparing for Long-Distance Racing and Bike Choice (00:14:52) Sleep Deprivation, Minimal Gear, and Recovery Tactics (00:17:19) Gear Philosophy, Packing Strategy, and Cold Weather Prep (00:26:53) Reflections on the Sour Race and Favorite Route Segments (00:29:31) Early Racing Background and Discovering Ultra Endurance (00:33:48) Colorado Trail Race DNFs and Lessons Learned (00:40:28) The Addictive Nature of Ultra Racing and Competitiveness (00:42:00) Resupply Efficiency, Nutrition, and Time Management (00:45:07) Vapor Trail, Stagecoach, and Other Memorable Races (00:49:05) Bones to Blue and Doom: Extreme Bikepacking Challenges (00:54:35) International Racing: Silk Road, Atlas, and Global Logistics (00:59:54) Sea Otter, Bike Industry Trends, and Gear Innovation (01:06:06) Bikepacking Bags, Rack Systems, and Industry Drama (01:13:31) Ergon Product Development and Triple Crown Reflections (01:16:40) Life Lessons, Longevity, and the Mental Side of Racing (01:27:31) Rapid-Fire Questions: Gear, Components, and Preferences (01:35:52) Advice for New Endurance Athletes and Closing Remarks ---------------- #endurance #bikepacking

    1h 39m
  2. Karin Pocock: Inside a Triple Crown Season - Wins, Blowups, and Comebacks #57

    May 22

    Karin Pocock: Inside a Triple Crown Season - Wins, Blowups, and Comebacks #57

    ✨ Support the Podcast ✨ In this episode, I sit down with Karin Pocock just days before Pinyons and Pines to unpack last year’s Triple Crown season—the podium at Tour Divide, the heartbreak of scratching at the Colorado Trail Race due to smoke inhalation, and the emotional toll of watching a season-defining goal unravel. We talk about what it means to come back: rebuilding fitness, shifting to high-intensity training, rethinking race strategy, and lining up again with unfinished business. From holding position at the front of the field to learning when to pull the plug, this is a candid conversation about risk, resilience, and returning stronger. If you’ve ever had a big goal fall apart—and chose to try again anyway—this one’s for you. ---------------- https://www.instagram.com/karin_pocock https://www.Instagram.com/oldmanmountainracks https://www.Instagram.com/silca_velo https://www.Instagram.com/noblwheels  https://www.Instagram.com/dispersed.bikepacking ---------------- (00:00:00) Introduction, Zoom Fatigue & Training Reflections (00:03:15) HIIT, FTP Hesitation & AI Training Platforms (00:09:23) TrainerRoad Transition & Performance Gains (00:11:04) Welcome Karen & Sour Race Debrief (00:15:40) Pacing, Motivation, Injuries & Humor (00:18:32) Tour Divide Challenges: Smoke, Weather & Sleep Kit (00:26:16) Mud, Health Issues & Race Motivation (00:32:36) Power Meters, Equipment & Race Planning (00:36:31) Arizona Trail Logistics & Fire Exposure (00:43:47) Toxic Exposure, Illness vs Fatigue & Lung Health (00:48:57) Fire Season Shifts & Gear Logistics (00:55:50) Battery Management, Electrolytes & Iron Testing (01:08:42) Goals, Sponsorship & Training Balance (01:16:03) Work Flexibility, Relocation & Uranium Mining (01:31:39) Pinyons Victory, Community & Canadian Roots (01:45:49) Rapid Fire: Components, Salt, Lighting & Fit (01:59:46) Charging, Water Sources & Resupply Stories (02:10:20) Wrap-Up, Sponsors & Closing Remarks ---------------- #endurance #bikepacking

    2h 21m
  3. Pinyons & Pines 2026 Course Preview with Dana & Dylan #56

    Apr 24

    Pinyons & Pines 2026 Course Preview with Dana & Dylan #56

    ✨ Support the Podcast ✨ In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about the 2026 Pinyons and Pines “race-not-race” in Northern Arizona. We cover key logistics including grand depart info, parking, pre-race gathering, required permits and last-minute route updates (including potential mud reroutes). We also dive into sponsorship support, water reliability, resupply strategy, and how to prepare for Arizona’s unpredictable weather—from freezing temps to desert heat. The second half is a detailed course preview of this year’s 413-mile, 39,000-foot route. We explain why this edition is one of the toughest yet, what makes it unique, major changes from past years, critical resupply points (especially the Cottonwood Maverik), water carries, and what to expect from key sections like Mingus, Crown King, the Bradshaws, and the Prescott Circle Trail. If you’re registered, on the waitlist, or just curious about ultra bikepacking in Arizona, this episode will help you prepare mentally and strategically for what’s shaping up to be a big, demanding year on course. ---------------- Event Website: https://danaernst.com/PinyonsPines/ Strava Group: https://www.strava.com/clubs/1382713 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinyonspinesbikepackingrace/  Arizona State Trust Land Permit: https://azland.my.salesforce-sites.com/recreationalpermit/ ---------------- (00:00:00) - Podcast Support & Welcome (00:02:37) - Event Disclaimer, Safety & Self-Supported Rules (00:05:30) - Eighth Edition Overview & Course Stats (00:07:14) - Benchmark Ride & Course Difficulty (00:08:12) - Registration, Waitlist & Sponsors (00:15:19) - GPS Files, Route Updates & Mud Bypass (00:20:03) - Parking, Pre-Race Gathering & Permits (00:24:38) - Why This Year’s Route (Crown King & Additions) (00:25:43) - Full Course Overview & Bike Choice (00:28:53) - Opening Section: Woody Mountain to Sedona (00:30:45) - Cottonwood Resupply Strategy (00:34:10) - Spring Valley to Crown King Climb (00:38:21) - Senator Highway to Prescott Loop (00:41:33) - Prescott Resupply & 24-Hour Options (00:44:30) - Mount Union & Major Descents (00:47:55) - Camp Verde Resupply & Final 100 Miles (00:51:06) - Stoneman Lake Climb & Road Conditions (00:53:47) - Mormon Lake Resupply & Final Summit (00:55:49) - Final Stretch to Finish (00:57:13) - Final Notes, Contact Info & Campfire Policy ---------------- #endurance #bikepacking

    1 hr
  4. Dana Ernst: Why Doing Hard Things Matters - Bikepacking, Mindset & Dylan’s SAUER Recap #55

    Mar 27

    Dana Ernst: Why Doing Hard Things Matters - Bikepacking, Mindset & Dylan’s SAUER Recap #55

    ✨ Support the Podcast ✨ In this episode, Dana Ernst joins me to dive deep into the mindset behind endurance sports, self-reliance, and why doing hard things still matters in a world built for convenience. The conversation explores how modern culture—shaped by instant gratification, easy access to credit, and curated experiences—has shifted our relationship with effort, risk, and failure. You’ll hear reflections on competition, personal growth, and why bikepacking and ultra-endurance events offer something many people feel is missing: real challenge and earned experience. We also unpack themes like financial philosophy (“die with zero”), balancing spending vs. saving, and how pursuing experiences over possessions can shape a more meaningful life. Toward the back half of the episode, I share a recap of my recent effort at SAUER—the Sonoran Ultra Endurance Ride—including key takeaways, lessons learned, and how the experience is shaping the rest of my season. ---------------- https://www.instagram.com/dcernst/ https://www.instagram.com/pinyonspinesbikepackingride/ https://www.instagram.com/verdevalleyrandonnee/ SAUER: https://thesauer.weebly.com Full Gear List: https://lighterpack.com/r/ehl9y7 https://www.chaparralcycles.com ---------------- (00:00:00) Intro, Sponsor Acknowledgments, and Pre-show Banter (00:02:28) Dog Burger Race Overview & Competitive Background (00:06:07) Sports, Teamwork, and Personal Development (00:11:35) Self-Reliance, Generational Perspectives, and Consumer Behavior (00:24:30) Money, Risk, and Life Philosophy (00:33:08) Minimalism, Possessions, and Personal Mindset (00:36:46) Travel, Iceland, and Outdoor Exploration (00:42:29) Risk, Failure, and Inspirational Stories (00:55:08) Documentary Discussion and Storytelling (00:58:22) Stagecoach 100: Logistics, Safety, and Risk Management (01:07:41) Media, Storytelling, and Documentary Production Challenges (01:14:40) Branding, Growth, and Event Evolution (01:21:38) Route Planning, Course Design, and Scouting (01:27:22) Race Mindset and Early Experiences (01:36:11) Race Dynamics, Equipment, and Terrain Challenges (01:43:47) Route Logistics, Safety, and Resupply (01:50:34) Gear, Nutrition, and Performance Strategy (01:55:54) Training, Coaching, and AI Insights (02:13:49) Equipment Optimization and Race Execution (02:22:31) Fatigue, Competition, and Final Race Push (02:26:08) Safety, Inclusivity, and Race Concepts (02:29:43) Route Comparisons and Course Difficulty (02:36:34) Finish Rates and Race Analysis (02:37:13) Bike Tech: Batteries, Shifting, and Lighting (02:43:52) Gear Setup, Packing, and Preferences (02:49:22) Tires, Gear, and Race Overview (02:54:30) Race Logistics, Rules, and Closing Thoughts ---------------- #endurance #enduranceracing #enduranceathlete #endurancesports #adventure #bikepacking #bikepackracing

    3h 3m
  5. Scott Morris: The Origins of Modern Bikepacking Racing, Trackleaders, & Dot Watching #54

    Mar 13

    Scott Morris: The Origins of Modern Bikepacking Racing, Trackleaders, & Dot Watching #54

    ✨ Support the Podcast ✨ In this episode, I sit down with Scott Morris to explore the origins of some of the sport’s most influential ideas and technologies. Scott shares the story behind creating the Arizona Trail Race, including the now-legendary decision to carry bikes across the Grand Canyon to preserve a fully self-supported route. He also explains how early GPS technology, long-distance adventure riding, and a DIY ethos helped shape the foundations of modern bikepacking events. The conversation also dives into Scott’s role in building the tools that power the sport today, including Trackleaders and TopoFusion, and how satellite trackers sparked the phenomenon of “dot watching.” Along the way, we discuss the evolution of endurance racing, the challenges of running a small tech company in the outdoor space, tracking massive ultrarunning events, and how new technologies like Starlink are changing the way people live and work in the backcountry. Viewers will come away with a deeper understanding of the history of self-supported racing, the technology behind modern endurance events, and the mindset that helped shape bikepacking into what it is today. ---------------- https://www.instagram.com/trackingscott/ https://trackleaders.com ---------------- (00:00:00) Side-by-Side Use, Regulation, and Night Riding Issues (00:04:17) Skiing vs Snowboarding Culture (00:06:44) Intro, Arizona Trail Race & First Grand Canyon Bike Crossing Planning (00:12:07) Self-Reliance Philosophy and Ultra-Run Comparisons (00:14:51) Arizona Trail Expedition, Early Mapping Software & GPS Signal Issues (00:19:39) Starlink, Satellite Redundancy, and the Mobile Remote Work Lifestyle (00:24:11) Challenges of Running Your Own Business (00:26:29) Event Tracking Technology, Competition, and Market (00:30:09) Post-COVID Expansion and Multisport Tracking (00:32:57) Major Events and Race Coverage Overview (00:33:08) Spot Trackers and Event Logistics (00:34:05) Track Leaders Origin and Tour Divide History (00:38:05) Growth, Community Adoption, and System Maintenance (00:40:24) Track Leaders Features, Complexity, and Development Challenges (00:43:09) Historical Data and Race Planning Insights (00:44:52) Biometrics, Metrics, and Athlete Performance Data (00:47:40) Cellular and Satellite Connectivity for Tracking (00:49:41) Professional Event Tracking and Ping App Development (00:54:37) GPS Adoption in Ultra-Running and Watches (00:56:19) Early Bikepacking GPS Navigation Stories (00:57:30) Technology Integration and GPS-Defined Courses (00:59:00) Advanced Route Building for the Arizona Trail (01:04:40) Grand Loop Planning and Bikepacking Philosophy (01:05:44) Race Leadership, Controversies, and COVID Impacts (01:10:14) Permits, Sheriff Threats, and Rescue Incidents (01:14:56) Grand Canyon Crossing Logistics and Water Planning (01:18:18) Cheating Cases and Community Policing in Bikepacking (01:22:10) Sponsorship, Commercialization, and Event Limits (01:30:29) Accessible Gravel Events and The Strange Series (01:33:25) Planning Personal Ultra Bike Races and Safety Concerns (01:36:03) Sleep Deprivation Stories and Race Regulations (01:44:45) Extreme Endurance Sports: Motor Racing, Motorcycles, and Iditarod (01:51:49) Bikepacking Heritage, Gear, and Media Evolution (01:57:27) Arizona Endurance Series and Mingus Trail Adventures (02:05:17) Community Reflections on Self-Supported Bikepacking (02:09:01) AI in Race Tracking: Ideas, Concerns, and Productivity (02:16:11) Nuclear Fusion and Future Energy Discussion (02:23:35) Viral Content, Algorithms, and Podcast Philosophy (02:32:49) Rapid Fire Q&A (02:34:04) SOS Rescues, Emergency Protocol, and Safety Lessons (02:45:26) Bike Gear Debates, Tires, and Camping Stories (02:49:59) Contact Information and Show Wrap-Up ---------------- #endurance #enduranceracing #enduranceathlete #endurancesports #adventure #bikepacking #bikepackracing

    2h 51m
  6. Nick Smolinske: Panda-in-Chief at Rogue Panda Designs #53

    Feb 13

    Nick Smolinske: Panda-in-Chief at Rogue Panda Designs #53

    Help support completing the Stagecoach 400 Project: https://seedandspark.com/fund/stagecoach-400#story ✨ Support the Podcast ✨ In this episode, Nick Smolinske, the founder of Flagstaff-based Rogue Panda Designs, joins the podcast for an in-depth exploration of the intersection between technical innovation and small-business resilience in the outdoor gear industry. Nick shares his journey of building a premium bikepacking brand from the ground up, detailing how he transition from self-taught sewing to advanced industrial manufacturing and the development of digital tools like the Pandavision photo-template system to streamline custom frame bag production. The conversation offers a masterclass in bike ergonomics, specifically focusing on the science of handlebar sweep to eliminate hand pain, while also providing behind-the-scenes insights into the challenges of domestic manufacturing, such as managing rising production costs and navigating the complexities of global supply chains. ---------------- https://www.instagram.com/roguepandadesigns/ https://roguepanda.com ---------------- (00:00:00) - Bikepacking Documentary Announcement (00:01:13) - TV Habits, News Consumption & Media Skepticism (00:04:52) - Sonic Weapons, Havana Syndrome & Global Tech Concerns (00:07:57) - Elon Musk, SpaceX & Handlebar Design Tangent (00:13:34) - Handlebar Sweep, Bar Ends & Fit Considerations (00:19:47) - Flat vs Drop Bars, Packability & Bike Preferences (00:21:24) - Peru & Mexico Bike Travel Adventures (00:28:17) - Injuries, Equipment Adjustments & Trip Logistics (00:34:30) - Mountain Bike Marketing & Visual Appeal (00:38:06) - Ultra-distance Racing & Training Perspective (00:41:20) - Rogue Panda Origins & Weight Challenges (00:46:55) - DIY Gear Making, Sewing & Engineering Roots (00:52:07) - AI-Assisted Coding, Design & Language Learning (01:00:34) - Blue Ridge Cradle Introduction & Design Vision (01:03:22) - Hiring, Team Dynamics & Early Business Scaling (01:07:59) - Ripsey Seat Bag Development & Material Exploration (01:14:02) - Cost Analysis, Tariffs & Manufacturing Constraints (01:28:01) - Printing Challenges & In-House Production Shift (01:36:24) - Pandavision Workflow, QC & Customer Success (01:49:22) - Website Development, Programming & Scaling Challenges (01:53:54) - Redesign Philosophy, Testing & Failure Analysis (02:03:07) - Customer Communication, Materials & Prototypes (02:10:36) - Future Carry Systems: Vests, Hip Packs & Racks (02:19:00) - Seat Bag History, Travel & Component Compatibility (02:22:16) - Electronic vs Mechanical Drivetrains (02:28:30) - Olympics, Culture & Community Discussion (02:33:06) - Favorite Products, Tattoos & Rider Comfort (02:37:30) - Production Lead Times & Safety Reflections (02:47:34) - Product Roadmap, 2026 Goals & Closing Remarks ---------------- #endurance #enduranceracing #enduranceathlete #endurancesports #adventure #bikepacking #bikepackracing

    2h 53m
  7. Kara Woolgar: From first-time bikepacker to AZT800 finisher, one pedal stroke at a time #52

    Jan 23

    Kara Woolgar: From first-time bikepacker to AZT800 finisher, one pedal stroke at a time #52

    ✨ Support the Podcast ✨ In this episode, Kara Woolgar shares an inside look at her journey from first-time bikepacker to finishing the Arizona Trail 800. We dive into how she trained with limited time, overcame self-doubt, and committed to one of the toughest bikepacking races in the U.S. Kara breaks down her approach to nutrition with celiac disease and multiple food allergies, lessons learned about fueling and gear, managing fear and safety in the backcountry, and why community and mentorship matter—especially for women getting into bikepacking. ---------------- Bikepacking 101 Event: https://www.facebook.com/share/1C3zjgoUB3/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://www.youtube.com/@PintSizedAdventurer https://www.instagram.com/karawoolgar/ https://www.nukesunrise.com/#/ ---------------- (00:00:00) Bikepacking 101: Introduction and upcoming overnighter clinic details  (00:02:37) Advice on borrowing and using simple gear for beginners  (00:06:07) Overcoming fears of solo wilderness travel through group dynamics  (00:07:23) Hard-learned lessons about always carrying a rain jacket  (00:09:57) Reflections on completing the Queen’s Ransom as a first major ride  (00:12:12) Committing to and preparing for the 800-mile Arizona Trail  (00:15:45) Managing health, nutrition, and Celiac disease during long-distance racing  (00:24:53) Meaningful encounters with through-hikers and solitude on the trail  (00:31:47) Pushing through severe blisters and a low point at Picketpost  (00:48:53) Strategic charging and water resupply logistics at Hijinks Camp (00:51:36) Troubleshooting mechanical failures and keeping a positive mindset  (00:53:06) Balancing professional life as a nurse with endurance goals  (01:09:36) Navigating the Grand Canyon with specific water management strategies  (01:53:07) Looking ahead to the Colorado Trail and European bikepacking dreams  (02:18:22) Final community resources and event links for interested riders ---------------- #endurance #enduranceracing #enduranceathlete #endurancesports #adventure #bikepacking #bikepackracing

    2h 17m
  8. Dexter Kopas: SAUER Co-Race Director on Building Races, Racing Smart, & Going Faster #51

    Jan 2

    Dexter Kopas: SAUER Co-Race Director on Building Races, Racing Smart, & Going Faster #51

    ✨ Support the Podcast ✨https://linktr.ee/theendurancestudio In this episode, endurance cyclist and SAUER Co-Race Director Dexter Kopas joins the podcast for a wide-ranging discussion on modern gravel and ultra-distance bikepacking. We dive deep into why wider tires are reshaping gravel racing, how real-world rolling resistance and comfort matter more than drum tests, and what actually makes riders faster over multi-day efforts. Dexter shares his personal evolution into ultra racing, lessons from events like Race Across Arizona, Unbound XL, Vermont Super 8, Doom, and the realities of sponsorships—from winning races to building pitch decks and navigating the bike industry. The conversation expands beyond gear into the future of bikepacking itself: why the sport hasn’t grown like ultrarunning, the balance between solitude and community, and how supported elements might help bikepacking reach a wider audience. We also cover bike fit, injury prevention, ideal ultra-race bike setups, and the challenges of designing responsible race routes. Finally, Dexter breaks down his role as Co-Race Director of the SAUER Ultra Endurance Bikepacking Race, including course design, terrain, bike recommendations, lessons learned from year one, and how SAUER aims to blend competition, accessibility, and community in a Tucson-based ultra event. Whether you’re a gravel racer, bikepacker, or endurance athlete curious about where the sport is headed, this episode offers honest insight, practical advice, and a behind-the-scenes look at racing and building ultra-distance events. ---------------- https://www.instagram.com/kopeus/ https://thesauer.weebly.com/ https://www.instagram.com/otsocycles/ https://www.instagram.com/wolf_tooth_comp/ https://www.instagram.com/redshiftsports/ https://www.instagram.com/oldmanmountainracks/ https://www.instagram.com/silca_velo/ https://www.instagram.com/kanberra_usa/ https://www.instagram.com/carbsfuel/ https://www.instagram.com/wild_arizona_/ ---------------- (00:00:00) Introduction and 2025 Year in Review  (00:03:43) The Gravel Tire Revolution  (00:04:01) Transitioning to Ultra-Endurance  (00:12:31) The Business of Sponsorship  (00:19:34) The Professional Athlete Lifestyle  (00:21:05) Legitimizing Bikepack Racing  (00:53:52) The Role of Professional Coaching  (01:09:53) Mental Focus and Endurance  (01:18:52) Nutrition and Fueling Strategies  (01:26:56) Route Development in Arizona  (01:40:44) The Philosophy of Course Design  (01:42:00) Race Directing and Community  (01:44:43) Race Tracking Technology  (02:11:22) Closing Thoughts and 2026 Outlook  ---------------- #endurance #enduranceracing #enduranceathlete #endurancesports #adventure #bikepacking #bikepackracing

    2h 12m
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About

A mobile podcast studio chasing down endurance athletes. Stories, podcasts, and endurance content straight from rides and races. Hosted by ultra endurance cyclist, bikepacker, and runner Dylan Turner.

Information

  • Creator
    Dylan Turner
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    58
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Dylan Turner
  • Show Website
    The Endurance Studio

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