Road Adventures of Cycling Men of Leisure

Adam Baranski & Michael Sharp
  • 5.0 (13)
  • LEISURE
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Adam and Michael’s friendship is built on a shared love of cycling. From tough trails to leisurely rides, their adventures are filled with stories, banter, and authentic connection. Their podcast blends entertaining anecdotes, heartfelt conversations, and cycling excitement—welcoming you into their community and the joy of the open road.

  1. Tall, Grande, Venti… And A Whole Latte Opinions

    FEB 13

    Tall, Grande, Venti… And A Whole Latte Opinions

    Send a text A warm floor, a borrowed basement, and a hardwired cable set the scene for a conversation that mixes honesty with humor. We open by acknowledging a tough week for the family, then steer into what so many professionals are feeling: a job market where interviews stack up, portals show hundreds of applicants, and patience becomes a skill. From there, the conversation swerves—smoothly—into the strange poetry of Starbucks sizes and what clever naming says about branding, identity, and the rituals we buy. That detour unlocks the story of how our cycling miles evolved into investing miles. We revisit dollar-cost averaging, dividend plays, and the surprising value of owning a sliver of the places you frequent. There are hard lessons, too: why Topgolf’s rapid buildout strained the model, what Callaway’s partial divestment signals about refocusing on core strength, and how a humble convenience chain—Casey’s—quietly delivered outsized growth. Pensacola, Florida, takes a bow in our Listener Spotlight with its layered history and flight training roots, because curiosity still fuels this community. We balance the heavy with light: a burst of dad jokes, a proud homecoming moment, and the nerves of first drives that remind us how practice builds confidence. We also level with you about our plans—some group rides are paused until work settles—but the community heartbeat stays strong. And to thank those who want to support the show, we’re offering a clean, simple option: early access 48 hours before the public drop, while keeping every episode available to everyone. If you love coffee debates, road stories, and practical investing talk that skips the hype, queue this one up. Subscribe for early access, share it with a friend who needs a lift, and leave a quick review to help others find the ride. Your support keeps the pedals turning. Support Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable. and Remember, It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride! https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/ https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com

    1h 14m
  2. Two Friends Trade Bike Routes For Hidden Disney History

    FEB 1

    Two Friends Trade Bike Routes For Hidden Disney History

    Send a text Ever notice how your feet slow down in Epcot or how an ugly wall disappears into the trees? We spent a chilly Florida week trading climbs for castles and pulled back the curtain on the design choices that steer your attention, shape your pace, and keep the story intact even when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Between CityWalk wandering, Sanaa’s legendary bread service, and a night queued up for DVC Moonlight Magic, we chased the little truths that make the magic feel effortless. We unpack why Cinderella Castle has zero bricks and still stands strong, how Main Street’s flags quietly dodge the rulebook, and what those famous tunnels really do for the show. Pirates of the Caribbean spans multiple buildings with a hill that hides a train, the Tower of Terror wears Morocco’s colors to protect Epcot’s sightlines, and Go Away Green turns workaday structures into background noise. Epcot’s early vision as a living city explains today’s subtle engineering: uneven paths that slow you down, a sphere held aloft by legs, and a second gate that changes how the park breathes. Add in chemically aged water, purposely unlevel vehicles, and tree insurance backed by a soil lab, and you start to see how maintenance becomes part of storytelling. We also shout out Birmingham, the Magic City, in our listener spotlight and line up a new mystery city with clues tied to wings and a certain 70s news anchor vibe. On the home front, we’re tuning the show’s sound, remodeling the studio, and exploring an early-access subscription for anyone who wants their Leisure two days sooner. If you love theme park history, design psychology, and the odd fact that makes a place feel alive, this one’s for you. Enjoy the ride, share it with a friend who geeks out on Imagineering, and drop your favorite park secret in a review. Subscribe, leave a rating, and tell us what to explore next. Support Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable. and Remember, It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride! https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/ https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com

    49 min
  3. We Went To Podfest And All We Got Was A Better Golf Swing

    JAN 18

    We Went To Podfest And All We Got Was A Better Golf Swing

    Send a text Sunshine, fairways, and a hall full of creators—this Florida trip gave us exactly what we needed: time together and a clearer sense of why we make this show the way we do. We walked into Podfest surrounded by pitch decks and monetization playbooks and walked out more committed to community, consistency, and the simple joy of talking to people we like about places we love. We compare notes on the shifting podcast landscape, from platform‑heavy expo floors to practical YouTube strategies that won’t burn out a two‑person team. Buzzsprout friends shared smart, human advice that fits a steady biweekly cadence. Over dinner, our longtime friend Armando dropped Disney gems that reminded us travel stories are the heartbeat of Road Adventures. Listener Spotlights celebrate Frankfurt, Germany—hot‑dog history, efficient transit, and the world’s biggest book fair—and Marshall, Illinois, where a community band and a 19th‑century stone arch keep local pride alive. Life updates are part of the path. With a job search underway, we’ve paused big cycling trips like BRAG and the Katy Trail while still backing our teams and planning bite‑size updates from the road. A surprise golf glow‑up—better contact, calmer decisions—became a quiet metaphor for the show: progress without pressure. We also talk market headwinds, why bike sales may be cooling, and how AI demand is nudging tech prices up. Between mobile recording quirks, a cameo from Confetti, and the long‑awaited closure of the “bucket hat” saga, we keep it real, useful, and light. If you’re here for cycling culture, travel memories, Disney lore, or just a thoughtful take on podcasting without the hustle, you’ll feel at home. Press play, ride along, and tell a friend. Then tap follow, leave a review, and share what keeps your hobbies fun—we’ll read our favorites on a future show. Support Support the show Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable. and Remember, It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride! https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/ https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com

    44 min
  4. We Made A Yellow Jersey For A Guessing Game, Because Why Not

    JAN 7

    We Made A Yellow Jersey For A Guessing Game, Because Why Not

    Send a text What if calling a week-long ride’s overnight towns could win you a jersey no one else will ever own? We turned our BRAG 2026 route fever into a community contest and crowned a winner who came astonishingly close to a perfect map. Along the way, we unpacked why state rides like Bragg are such a powerful gateway into bike touring: approachable daily mileage, supportive staff, flexible sleeping options, and small towns that roll out the welcome mat. We walk through how riders reverse-engineer a route—looking at mileage norms, terrain, venue capacity, and that all-important Tuesday layover. The winning entry stood out not just for accuracy, but for understanding how a great route balances challenge and charm. That earned him a one-of-a-kind yellow Cycling Men of Leisure jersey co-branded with the BRAG Happy Trails logo, built to stand out across camp and spark conversations about his sharp call. We also share practical travel tactics that make week-long rides smoother. Book fast the night the route drops. Use simple tools to split trip costs cleanly so friendships stay fun and finances stay fair. Pack for comfort and recovery as much as performance. And most of all, find your people. Riding with a team transforms long days into shared memories—familiar wheels, small rituals, and the kind of support that makes headwinds bearable and finish lines sweeter. There’s banter, a listener spotlight with city clues, a quick job-search update, and a preview of our Florida swing with golf, Podfest, and a friendly college championship wager. Hit play for the winner reveal, stick around for the travel hacks and team wisdom, and leave ready to map your own adventure. If you’re stoked on the ride, follow, share with a friend who needs a nudge, and drop a review to help more cyclists find the show. Support Support the show Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable. and Remember, It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride! https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/ https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com

    34 min
  5. Aerodynamic Bikes Won’t Fix My Short Game

    JAN 4

    Aerodynamic Bikes Won’t Fix My Short Game

    Send a text New Year energy, winter grit, and a community that refuses to thin out—this one hits all three. We open with holiday contrasts that say everything about the ride right now: one of us hiking on ice with crampons and a Starbucks in hand, the other stepping out in shorts on a 70-degree Christmas. That contrast becomes a theme as we talk candidly about a slow job search, the quiet power of listener support, and why a team-first approach makes Big BRAG 2026 more rewarding for new riders and veterans alike. We zoom out to the bigger picture too. A shrunken Bicycling Magazine issue in the mailbox sparks a look at how print is adapting—smaller formats, leaner shipping, tighter layouts—and how that mirrors the shift from paper to pixels across cycling media. The conversation veers from aero bikes and marginal gains to what actually moves most riders: comfort, consistency, and a reason to roll. We share stories from old-school route planning in real estate photography, where efficiency beat mileage, and connect that mindset to how we plan tours, choose gear, and build habits that last. There’s plenty of community fuel. We recap warm welcomes from international listeners, share gratitude for supporters who keep the show humming, and invite everyone to join our Cycling Men and Women of Leisure teams for Big BRAG 2026. We also announce our Podfest 2026 plans, thanks to Buzzsprout’s support, and talk honestly about what conventions offer—useful ideas, people who push your craft, and a reminder that courses don’t replace clarity. The Listener Spotlight returns with crisp clues—ten flags, great transit, book lovers, and an American cookout classic—so bring your best guess and jump in. Ride along for a thoughtful start to Season Five: real life, real laughs, and a clear focus on what matters—good roads, good people, and stories worth sharing. If this resonates, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a quick review to help others find the show. Support Support the show Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable. and Remember, It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride! https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/ https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com

    52 min
  6. Happy Trails Across Georgia with BRAG and Cycling Men Of Leisure

    JAN 1

    Happy Trails Across Georgia with BRAG and Cycling Men Of Leisure

    Send a text Ready for a ride that blends rail-trails, river views, and real small-town hospitality? We’re unveiling BRAG’s “Happy Trails” route and bringing you along for a southbound journey that starts at LaFette’s Honeybee Festival, rolls past a winery rest stop, settles into a two-night layover in Carrollton, and detours into a behind-the-scenes tour at Trilith Studios. From the Silver Comet to the LaGrange Thread and the Man O’ War Trail, we stitch together protected miles and lively downtowns for a week that feels equal parts adventure and reunion. We map the route day by day so you can picture the ride: LaFette to Somerville, on to Cave Spring for cold spring water and easy camping; a midweek hub in Carrollton with the GreenBelt ready for a relaxed spin; a surprise cultural stop at Trilith with film-stage tours; then a push through Senoia to LaGrange for a big Friday night downtown. The finale brings us through Pine Mountain and drops into Columbus via the Riverwalk, where whitewater, zip lines, and riverfront patios set the scene for a celebratory finish. Worried about logistics? We cut the planning to three choices: how long you’re riding, where you’ll sleep, and how you’ll get there. Veterans share why they park at the finish and shuttle to the start, plus tips for flyers using ATL or Chattanooga. We talk packing bikes into U-Hauls the smart way, booking shuttles, and choosing between hotels, indoor camping, or your trusty tent. Along the way you’ll hear bourbon price trends, stories of ocean-aged bottles and lake-aged wine, and why trail networks change not just your route but your headspace. Subscribe, share with a ride buddy, and tell us: are you parking at the start or the finish this year? Your spot on “Happy Trails” is waiting. Support Support the show Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable. and Remember, It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride! https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/ https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com

    1h 5m
  7. Cycling, Community, Counterfeits: From Podfest To Disney

    12/21/2025

    Cycling, Community, Counterfeits: From Podfest To Disney

    Send a text A Bigfoot sweater, a heavy backpack full of mics, and a plane to Orlando—our year closes with the perfect mix of ride stories, travel plans, and one serious warning every cyclist needs to hear. We’re gearing up for Podfest, turning a living room into a studio, and cashing in on a DVC Moonlight Magic night that lets us skip the crowds and snag a few hours of park time. Along the way, we talk about how a smarter packing checklist, a better mic deal, and some SNL-worthy podcast jokes became part of our annual rhythm. The community takes center stage with a sharp Listener Spotlight reveal: Mesa, Arizona, where ancient canals still inform modern life and towering saguaros are protected for good reason. That maps neatly into our revamped BRAG route-guessing contest—a fairer point system that rewards the correct town on the correct night, and a big bonus for the layover. It’s competitive, nerdy in the best way, and proof our listeners know roads we haven’t yet ridden. Yes, a custom jersey is on the line, but the real prize is the thrill of being right. Then comes the must-hear segment: counterfeit bike parts. A recent $1.6M seizure of fake frames, bars, wheels, and components—some stamped with household cycling brands—reminds us that a bargain can be dangerous. We unpack the difference between knockoffs and counterfeits, why serial numbers can be forged, and how to protect yourself: buy critical components from reputable dealers or your local bike shop, verify serials, and second-guess prices that look magical. It’s not about brand loyalty; it’s about staying upright. We wrap with our top moments of the year—post-ride honesty, “one more mile” lies, bourbon wisdom—and a simple truth: we may not be getting faster, but the stories keep getting better. If you’re here for community, safe gear, and a reason to ride tomorrow, you’re in the right place. If this resonated, follow and subscribe, share it with a friend who loves bikes, and drop a review to help other riders find the show. Your notes and guesses power what we do next. Support Support the show Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable. and Remember, It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride! https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/ https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com

    1h 6m
  8. Where Leisure Meets Grit: Community, Contests, And The Joy Of The Journey

    12/09/2025

    Where Leisure Meets Grit: Community, Contests, And The Joy Of The Journey

    Send a text The ride is more than the route, and this week we prove it—from a hilariously stubborn bathroom repaint to launching our biggest community challenge yet. We kick things off with the small stuff that somehow becomes big stuff, then shift gears into a listener spotlight reveal that lands in Tucker, Georgia, complete with military roots, postwar industry, and a surprising Kansas connection. It’s a reminder that every town on a cycling tour has layers, and those layers make the journey memorable. From there, we talk honestly about job hunting in a world of AI recruiters and near-human support bots. It’s weird, useful, and worth interrogating. We counter the screen time with winter hiking, clever daily movement, and a few simple habits that keep the body ready for spring rides. Then we swerve into something unforgettable: a Forged in Fire episode where blacksmiths harvest steel from bicycles, craft blades, and test them against bike parts. It’s brutal, beautiful, and oddly inspiring for anyone who geeks out about materials, design, and durability. The centerpiece is our BRAG 2026 route-guessing contest. Here’s the deal: guess each night town for the weeklong ride, score 10 points for the right town on the right night, 5 if the town is right but the night is wrong, and snag a bonus by following us on your favorite platform. The Tuesday-Wednesday layover counts double if you nail it, and the top scorer wins a one-of-a-kind jersey co-designed with BRAG branding and our show. Tie-breakers go to a live draw on the pod. Entries close Dec 31 at 10 p.m., and we’ll be back with a Route Release breakdown at noon on New Year’s Day after the official midnight reveal. Ride along with us for the laughs, the clues, and the community energy. Subscribe, share this episode with a friend who loves BRAG or Georgia cycling, and drop your route guesses before the clock runs out. Your jersey might be waiting. Support Support the show Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable. and Remember, It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride! https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/ https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com

    46 min
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5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Adam and Michael’s friendship is built on a shared love of cycling. From tough trails to leisurely rides, their adventures are filled with stories, banter, and authentic connection. Their podcast blends entertaining anecdotes, heartfelt conversations, and cycling excitement—welcoming you into their community and the joy of the open road.

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