The Endurance Studio

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

    1 DAY AGO

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

    23 JAN

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

    2 JAN

    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
  4. Alex Schultz: Conquering the Bikepacking Triple Crown #50

    12/12/2025

    Alex Schultz: Conquering the Bikepacking Triple Crown #50

    ✨ Support the Podcast ✨ In this episode, ultra-endurance bikepack racer Alex Schultz joins me in the studio for a deep dive into his journey through the Triple Crown of Bikepacking — the Tour Divide, Colorado Trail Race, and Arizona Trail Race 800. We talk about growing up outdoors in Michigan, the evolution of his racing career, and the mental and physical toll of multi-day racing. Alex shares stories from freezing nights, blown spokes, mud disasters, canyon portages, resupply chaos, and what it really takes to train, problem-solve, and push through thousands of miles of self-supported racing. If you love bikepacking, gear nerdery, adventure suffering, or just a good story, this one’s stacked. ---------------- https://www.instagram.com/schultzy954 https://www.kindbikesandskis.com https://www.instagram.com/morrow_packs ---------------- This episode is brought to you by: Squirrel's Nut Butter - https://squirrelsnutbutter.com/discount/ENDURANCE20 Use code "ENDURANCE20" for 20% off! ---------------- (00:00:00) – Early Life, Outdoors Background & The Chevy Tracker Build (00:03:05) – Normalizing Hard Efforts & Race-Day Mindset (00:17:03) – Trail Magic, Race Fairness & Training Structure (00:18:25) – Tour Divide Resupply Story & The “Training My Whole Life” Quote (00:21:19) – Handling Cold, Arizona vs Colorado Conditions (00:23:40) – This Year’s Modified Grand Canyon Route (00:35:58) – Fueling Philosophy: “I Don’t Count Calories — I Visualize It” (00:41:50) – Executive Function Collapse at Resupplies (00:46:49) – Getting Sick on Tour Divide & Calling It (01:18:06) – Gear Durability & The Marji Gesick Race (01:31:53) – Sleep Deprivation & The Psychology of Pushing Through (01:54:41) – Race Rules, Schilling, and the AZT FKT Debate (01:59:50) – Mechanical Problems: AXS Batteries & Drivetrain Failures (02:09:22) – Grocery Store Resupplies & Final Advice to New Athletes ---------------- #endurance #enduranceracing #enduranceathlete #endurancesports #adventure #bikepacking #bikepackracing

    2h 17m
  5. Miron Golfman: Winning the AZT300, Enduring for Meaning, and Redefining Ultra Cycling #49

    14/11/2025

    Miron Golfman: Winning the AZT300, Enduring for Meaning, and Redefining Ultra Cycling #49

    ✨ Support the Podcast ✨ 👉🏻RIDE TO ENDURE: The Baja Divide FKT for ALS In this episode, endurance athlete Miron Golfman—fresh off his first-place finish at the Arizona Trail 300—dives into the mindset, motivation, and meaning behind ultra-distance bike racing. From completing the Baja Divide FKT to living abroad and recently racing the Atlas, Hellenic, and Silk Road Mountain Races, Miron shares what it really takes—physically and mentally—to race self-supported across continents. Listeners will learn how Miron balances passion with purpose through his Ride to Endure project for ALS awareness, what he’s discovered about fueling, recovery, and resilience, and how the global bikepacking scene is evolving. We also dive deep into community, personal growth, and finding fulfillment through endurance and giving back. ---------------- https://www.instagram.com/miron_golfman/ https://www.instagram.com/revelbikes/ https://www.instagram.com/albion.cycling/ https://www.instagram.com/tailfincycling/ https://www.instagram.com/firstendurance/ ---------------- This episode is brought to you by: Squirrel's Nut Butter - https://squirrelsnutbutter.com/discount/ENDURANCE20 Use code "ENDURANCE20" for 20% off! ---------------- (00:00:00) Eating habits and race fueling (00:01:56) Racing abroad, moving to Europe, and expedition highlights (00:10:49) Ride to Endure, caregiving and starting a new path (00:17:13) Purpose, giving back, and community in endurance sports (00:22:16) Growth of bikepacking and ultra culture — US vs Europe (01:05:26) Race experiences and terrain (Atlas, Hellenic, Silk Road, Highland Trail) (01:18:31) Hydration, sodium loss, and race nutrition strategies (01:40:11) Heat, resupply logistics, gear, rules and final advice ---------------- #endurance #enduranceracing #enduranceathlete #endurancesports #adventure #bikepacking #bikepackracing

    2h 14m
  6. Tyler Arnett: Setting the Ride Across Arizona Fastest Known Time #48

    07/11/2025

    Tyler Arnett: Setting the Ride Across Arizona Fastest Known Time #48

    ✨ Support the Podcast ✨ Today's guest is Tyler Arnett, who just set the Fastest Known Time on the Ride Across Arizona — a 600ish-mile self-supported ultra-gravel ride from the Colorado River to New Mexico. After two failed attempts battling “death mud” and desert heat, Tyler came back stronger for a third try and crushed the route in record time. We talk about everything from gear and strategy to the mental highs and lows of ultra-endurance racing — and what it really takes to ride across an entire state on your own. ---------------- https://www.instagram.com/dadventurecyclist State Bicycle Company: https://www.statebicycle.com Bicycle Haus: https://www.bicyclehaus.com Ride Across Arizona: https://azgravelrides.com ---------------- This episode is brought to you by: Squirrel's Nut Butter - https://squirrelsnutbutter.com/discount/ENDURANCE20 Use code "ENDURANCE20" for 20% off! ---------------- (00:00:00) Death mud and first attempt (00:03:52) Racing background and early attempts (00:06:19) Weather, mud, and subsequent attempts (00:09:28) Heat, hydration, and dropping in Baghdad (00:15:29) Preparation between attempts and sponsorship ad (00:17:29) Bike setup, tires, and power strategy (00:20:56) Pacing, headwinds, and low points (00:23:21) Aero bars, lights, and electronics failures (00:37:26) Psychological state, towns, and food resupplies (00:42:33) Stops detail and sleep strategy (01:01:34) Cold, clothing, and hand/feet issues (01:08:08) Navigational disorientation and hallucinations (01:13:40) Finish, trail angel, and immediate aftermath (01:29:22) Training, recovery, and riding schedule (01:36:36) Running background and multisport experience (01:47:07) Road vs gravel, events, and future plans (01:51:27) Closing shoutouts and final thoughts ---------------- #endurance #enduranceracing #enduranceathlete #endurancesports #adventure #bikepacking #bikepackracing

    2h 10m
  7. Forrest Radarian: Wolves, Rabies, and Building Arizona’s Next Big Bikepacking Race #47

    12/09/2025

    Forrest Radarian: Wolves, Rabies, and Building Arizona’s Next Big Bikepacking Race #47

    ✨ Support the Podcast ✨ Shoutout to @ladennis2009 for the Super Thanks! ---------------- In this episode, I sit down with Forrest Radarian—science teacher, bikepacker, and race director of the inaugural A Fierce Green Ride. We talk about his journey from wilderness first responder training to close encounters with bats and rabies scares, his passion for bikepacking and healthy backcountry eating, and the inspiration behind creating a new race in Arizona’s White Mountains. Forrest also shares insights on wolf reintroduction, the importance of community respect in rural towns, and what riders can expect from this challenging 400+ mile route. ---------------- https://www.theforrestbiome.com https://www.instagram.com/theforrestbiome/ https://www.theforrestbiome.com/a-fierce-green-ride https://www.instagram.com/el.lobo.lupus/ https://www.instagram.com/capesofthecanyon/ ---------------- This episode is brought to you by: Squirrel's Nut Butter - https://squirrelsnutbutter.com/discount/ENDURANCE20 Use code "ENDURANCE20" for 20% off! Embark Maple Energy - https://www.embarkmaple.com Use code “EMBARK20” for 20% off! ---------------- (00:00:00) Introduction and Initial Interview Challenges (00:02:08) Wilderness First Responder and Personal Background (00:06:56) Rabies Exposure and Outdoor Risks (00:11:22) Movies, Storytelling, and Filmmaking (00:23:19) Bikepacking Culture and Fierce Screen Ride Race (00:28:35) Wildlife, Route Conditions, and Weather Concerns (00:36:26) Sleep, Gear, and Food Strategy for the Race (00:40:09) Connection to the White Mountains and Acts of Kindness (00:44:09) Sponsorship, Race Rules, and Community Respect (00:49:54) Wildlife Encounters and Cultural Context of Arizona (00:54:59) Wolves, Ranchers, and Coywolf Sightings (01:00:15) Racing Experiences: Fierce Screen Ride & Sonoran Ultra (01:03:52) Weird Arizona Towns and Social Contrasts (01:07:26) Growth of Bike Culture and Capes of the Canyon Route (01:10:20) Moving to Grand Canyon and Life in Arizona (01:13:35) AI, Education, and the Future of Creativity (01:17:06) Sports, Social Media, and Authenticity (01:21:10) Value of In-Person Interaction and Podcasting (01:22:30) AI in Media, Content Creation, and Human Touch (01:30:22) Balancing AI Tools and Future Outlook (01:32:26) Paranormal Stories and Inspirations (01:33:48) Bikepacking Influences and Community (01:35:38) Water Sources, Treatment, and Survival Stories (01:41:06) Resupply Challenges and Race Recovery (01:49:08) Final Advice and Closing Remarks ---------------- #endurance #enduranceracing #enduranceathlete #endurancesports #adventure #bikepacking #bikepackracing

    1h 55m
  8. Jefe Branham: Highs, Lows, and the Why Behind Ultra Endurance Racing #46

    08/09/2025

    Jefe Branham: Highs, Lows, and the Why Behind Ultra Endurance Racing #46

    ✨ Support the Podcast ✨ Accomplished ultra-endurance racer and Colorado Trail Race director Jefe Branham shares the highs, lows, and lessons learned from decades in bikepacking. From wild hallucinations on the Colorado Trail, to the balance between personal life and racing, to his philosophy on rules, community, and why joy matters more than speed—this conversation dives deep into the heart of endurance riding. Expect stories from the trail, reflections on resilience, and insights into what truly drives Jefe to keep showing up. ---------------- http://jwookieone.com https://www.instagram.com/jwookstar/ https://revelbikes.com/product/el-jefe/ ---------------- This episode is brought to you by: Squirrel's Nut Butter - https://squirrelsnutbutter.com/discount/ENDURANCE20 Use code "ENDURANCE20" for 20% off! Embark Maple Energy - https://www.embarkmaple.com Use code “EMBARK20” for 20% off! ---------------- (00:00:00) Reflecting on the CTR Race and FKT (00:02:34) Experience Riding the Gunny Loopy Loop (00:06:31) Cold and Wet Conditions on the Course (00:09:25) Dropping Out and Race Route Details (00:11:16) High and Low Points of the Race (00:14:14) Weirdest Disorientation and Hallucinations During Ultra Races (00:19:03) Changing Perspective on Racing and Suffering (00:21:45) Bodhi's Personality and Race Preparation (00:24:03) Origins and Evolution of Endurance Riding (00:32:57) Balancing Racing and Lifestyle Changes (00:35:32) Equipment and Pressure in Racing (00:38:47) Thoughts on FKT Culture and Race Rules (00:44:50) Personality Differences and Rule Awareness in Racing (00:48:51) Generational Changes and the Future of Bikepacking (00:51:22) Preferred Directions and Race Start Times (00:54:09) Origin of the 'Wookie' Nickname (00:56:00) Single Speed Riding and Equipment Modifications (00:59:53) Flat Pedals vs Clipless Pedals in Ultra Endurance (01:04:34) Challenges and Benefits of Riding Flats (01:10:32) Interactions with Other Trail Users and Environmental Impact (01:16:49) Sleep Kit Regrets and Improvised Solutions (01:24:11) Cultural Pressures on Men and Mental Health (01:30:23) Rapid Fire: Paranormal Experiences and Bikepacking Heroes (01:33:38) Worst Water Source and Advice for New Endurance Athletes ---------------- #endurance #enduranceracing #enduranceathlete #endurancesports #adventure #bikepacking #bikepackracing

    1h 38m
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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
    53
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Dylan Turner
  • Show Website
    The Endurance Studio

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