On today’s episode of podcast, I sit down with Joaquin Madrid - operations manager and lead guide at RideHub in Squamish, BC. Originally from Santiago, Chile, Joaquin’s journey into mountain biking started at 16 with sketchy city trails, downhill racing, and plenty of crashes. After stepping away from the sport, diving deep into rock climbing, and eventually rediscovering bikes through guiding and freeriding, Joaquin built a new relationship with riding - one rooted in skill development, self-trust, and community. Now based in Squamish, Joaquin brings over a decade of outdoor industry experience and a calm, supportive coaching style that helps riders build confidence, manage fear, and truly enjoy the process of progression. In this episode, we explore: Why racing wasn’t the right path for him and what riding for fun gave him insteadThe mental crossover between rock climbing and mountain bikingHow to rebuild confidence after serious crashesThe “full circle” approach to riding: skills, fitness, mindset, and bike setupWhy community is an underrated performance enhancerThe biggest mistakes riders make when they first come to BCHow to approach steep granite slabs with control and confidenceWhat a “perfect ride” really looks like through Joaquin's eyesWe also dive into what makes Squamish, Whistler, and Pemberton such a special riding corridor - and why a guided experience can accelerate your progression while keeping you safe and confident on world-class terrain. This conversation is packed with honest reflections, practical insight, and a powerful reminder that mountain biking isn’t about proving something, it’s about the progression, the passion, and the people you share it with. You can learn more about Joaquin and RideHub here: https://ridehub.ca/meet-the-team/ And if riding BC has ever been on your bucket list, this episode might just be the push you need to make it happen - Check out the BC MTB Expedition Until next time, happy trails - Jake ___________________________ FREE Mental About MTB Community with direct access to me 👇 themindmountain.com/mental-about-mtb-application Want to work with me? Join us on a Global MTB Expedition👇 themindmountain.com/globalmountainbikecoaching 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗹𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗳𝗹𝗮𝗴𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 Full Circle MTB Mentorship 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗵👇 themindmountain.com/squamish-coaching-package ___________________________ THE MIND MOUNTAIN themindmountain.com Instagram @the_mind_mountain Facebook @themindmountain YouTube @the_mind_mountian DISCLAIMER: The opinions, thoughts, and views in the content created by The Mind Mountain, the Grit With Wisdom Podcast, and Jake Johnstone, including the guests they interview, are solely their own and do not reflect the official policy or position of any other organization, person, or company mentioned or featured in the podcast. ...
