Road Tales with Levi & Cole

Cole Kessler

Levi Leipheimer and Cole Kessler share stories from two vastly different eras of professional cycling. Levi was one of the best professional cyclists in the world in the 2000s and Cole is new to the professional peloton, but is a two-time national champion.

  1. 2d ago

    Road Tales Ep. 31 | Pro Cyclist Training Talk

    The conversation revolves around cycling, health, and personal experiences, particularly focusing on body composition, training, and the evolution of cycling teams over the years. The hosts share insights on the importance of basics in training, the impact of body weight on performance, and the significance of team dynamics in professional cycling. The conversation delves into the dynamics of professional cycling, focusing on team strategies, athlete contracts, and the evolution of the sport. It also touches on personal experiences related to training, injuries, and the impact of cycling culture on storytelling in film. Takeaways Focus on training basicsTeam dynamics matter in cycling Team dynamics influence successCycling narratives shape public perception Chapters 00:00 Halloween and Health Insights02:48 Body Composition and Performance05:58 Evolution of Cycling Teams09:01 Coffee Culture and Personal Ventures11:57 Travel and Cycling Experiences15:01 The Rise of New Cycling Talent19:56 The Rise of Cycling Stars21:16 Contract Negotiations and Team Strategies23:59 Time Trials and Their Impact on Racing25:32 Cycling in Film: A New Narrative27:49 Personal Experiences in Team Selection30:40 Injury Management and Training Insights34:52 Strength Training and Its Benefits

  2. Oct 21

    Road Tales Ep. 30 | Lachlan Morton

    The conversation revolves around Lachlan's recent experience completing the Pony Express ride, discussing the challenges, strategies, and personal reflections from the journey. The dialogue also touches on the differences between competitive racing and long-distance adventures, emphasizing the mental and physical aspects of endurance cycling. The conversation explores the emotional and psychological aspects of cycling, focusing on the balance between performance and personal happiness. The speakers reflect on their experiences in racing, the pursuit of enlightenment through cycling, and the importance of embracing both successes and failures. Takeaways Endurance cycling offers unique mental clarityBalancing enjoyment and commitment is key Balance performance with happinessEmbrace both success and failure Chapters 00:00 Morning Rides and Plans03:02 The Pony Express Experience05:52 Challenges of Endurance Cycling08:54 Historical Context of the Pony Express11:51 Sleep Strategies and Recovery15:08 Post-Ride Reflections17:51 Mental Reset Through Cycling21:00 Finding Flow in Endurance24:01 Advice for Aspiring Cyclists31:30 Finding Balance in Racing32:11 Chasing Enlightenment on the Bike33:30 The Process of Growth38:28 Accepting Reality and Suffering43:57 Transitioning from Professional Racing46:18 The Fragility of Self-Identity54:25 Celebrating Achievements55:34 Memorable Races of the Year

    Road Tales Ep. 30 | Lachlan Morton

  3. Oct 12

    Road Tales Ep. 29 | Christian Vande Velde

    The conversation features Christian Vande Velde discussing his experiences in cycling, particularly his time in Girona and his transition from a cyclist to a commentator. The dialogue explores the evolution of Girona as a cycling hub, the challenges faced during races, and the camaraderie among cyclists and their support teams. The conversation delves into the experiences of professional cyclists, focusing on their memories of racing, living arrangements, and the evolution of cycling culture. The participants share anecdotes about their past, including humorous moments and reflections on the changes in the sport over the years. The conversation delves into the experiences and reflections of professional cyclists Christian Vande Velde and Levi, focusing on their careers, memorable moments, and the challenges faced in the sport. They share insights on training, competition, and the balance between personal life and professional commitments. Takeaways Cycling culture in GironaChallenges of race commentary Nostalgia for cycling's pastEvolution of cycling culture Embrace the process of cyclingBalance training with personal life Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cycling in Girona03:07 Christian's Journey to Girona06:01 The Evolution of Girona's Cycling Scene08:59 Life as a Cycling Commentator11:59 The Thrills and Dangers of Race Commentary15:00 Heat Challenges in Cycling Races17:55 The Importance of Recovery in Cycling20:49 Motorpacing Memories22:14 Living Arrangements and Adaptations24:31 Communication Challenges in Early Cycling26:10 Evolving Cycling Culture in Girona28:02 Olympic Experiences and Team Dynamics30:12 Historic Moments in US Cycling34:40 The USA Pro Challenge Story40:23 Racing Reflections and Rivalries43:40 Proudest Career Moments46:08 Training and Preparation Insights49:10 Life After Cycling: Home and Balance51:01 Handling Disappointments in Cycling54:40 The Importance of Process and Focus

    Road Tales Ep. 29 | Christian Vande Velde

  4. Oct 5

    Road Tales Ep. 28 | World Championships Recap

    The conversation revolves around the experiences of Cole and Levi in cycling, discussing Cole's recovery from a racing season, the dynamics of off-season training, and the recent World Championships where Team USA excelled. They delve into the strategies, performances, and implications of the race results, particularly focusing on the teamwork and individual efforts that led to success. The conversation delves into the dynamics of professional cycling, focusing on recent races, athlete performances, and the challenges faced by cyclists. Key discussions include the unpredictability of one-day races, the significance of various championships, and the evolving nature of cycling competitions. The conversation explores various topics related to cycling, including Olympic events, training strategies, and personal anecdotes from the speakers' experiences in Girona. The discussion highlights the evolution of cycling disciplines and the importance of strength training for cyclists. Takeaways Teamwork is crucial in cyclingOff-season recovery can be challenging Cycling races are unpredictableChampionships hold significant value Olympic cycling events discussedImportance of strength training Chapters 00:00 Navigating Recovery and Off-Season Challenges02:59 The Dynamics of Team USA at Worlds05:57 Analyzing Race Strategies and Performances09:04 The Impact of Individual Riders on Team Success11:57 Reflections on Cycling's Competitive Landscape15:03 The Role of Luck in Winning Races18:03 Future of American Cycling and Team Legacy23:56 The Unpredictability of One-Day Races28:32 The Significance of Championships32:44 Dominance in Women's Cycling34:20 Memorable Moments of the Season37:03 The Impact of Injuries on Performance41:50 The Future of Mountain Biking in Cycling43:55 Olympic Cycling Course Insights45:16 Cyclocross and Its Popularity46:45 Team Pursuit and Track Cycling49:55 Personal Anecdotes and Memories51:57 Life in Girona and Cycling Routes54:47 The Hincapie Loop and Local Cycling Culture58:21 Golf Obsession and Personal Goals01:00:55 Strength Training for Cyclists

  5. Sep 22

    Road Tales Ep. 27 | inside MVDP's 170km solo win & Worlds Prediction

    The conversation covers the experience of a hundred-mile trail run, the challenges faced, nutrition, hallucinations, and the emotional finish. It also delves into a cycling race, the performance of a cyclist, and the history of a memorial race. The conversation covers topics related to cycling, recovery, equipment, and lifestyle choices. It also delves into environmental considerations and air quality. The hosts discuss the use of compression boots, foam rolling, and the impact of forest fires on air quality. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including sleep quality, health, professional cycling, and talent scouting. The hosts also discuss upcoming events and share predictions for the world's road race. Takeaways Ultra-endurance events involve physical and mental challenges.Cycling races can be grueling and require exceptional physical and mental strength. Recovery methods like massage, compression boots, and foam rolling are essential for cyclists.Environmental factors like forest fires can impact air quality and influence lifestyle choices.The use of air purifiers and cooling pads can mitigate the effects of poor air quality on health and well-being. Sleep quality and its impact on healthProfessional cycling and talent scoutingPredictions for the world's road race Chapters 00:00 The Hundred-Mile Trail Run02:49 Challenges and Hallucinations08:18 Cycling Race and Memorial Race20:37 Recovery and Recovery Methods21:27 Equipment and Cycling Lifestyle23:14 Environmental Considerations and Air Quality29:45 Lifestyle Choices and Health32:51 Cycling and Environmental Impact37:00 Air Quality and Home Environment39:10 Sleep Quality and Health43:07 Professional Cycling and Talent Scouting53:40 Predictions for the World's Road Race

  6. Sep 10

    Road Tales Ep. 26 | Can USA Win the World Championships

    Levi shares his experience at Burning Man, highlighting the journey to and from the event, the art, music, and community aspects of the festival. The conversation then transitions to a discussion about cycling and the current state of the sport. The conversation covers topics such as racing experiences, health challenges, upcoming events, and future aspirations. It also delves into the significance of work-life balance and the impact of personal relationships on performance. The discussion concludes with a mention of a potential grand tour participation. Takeaways Burning Man is a unique experience that combines art, music, and community in a desert setting.The world of cycling and its current state are discussed, highlighting the lack of American success at the World Road Race. Racing experiences and challengesImportance of work-life balanceImpact of personal relationships on performanceAspirations for grand tour participation Chapters 00:00 Burning Man Experience02:55 Art, Music, and Community at Burning Man12:01 Cycling and the World Road Race18:37 Racing Experiences and Challenges21:17 Health Challenges and Work-Life Balance24:01 Upcoming Events and Aspirations26:55 Personal Relationships and Performance36:13 Aspirations for Grand Tour Participation

  7. Aug 24

    Pro Cycling's Nutrition Secrets | Dr. Tim Podlogar

    The conversation covers Tim's journey from a non-cyclist to a lecturer in applied physiology and a consultant in sports nutrition. It delves into topics such as carbohydrate oxidation rates, the impact of high-carb diets, the role of fat metabolism in cycling, and the use of supplements for performance improvement. Additionally, it explores the importance of recovery nutrition and the potential benefits of creatine and beta-alanine. The conversation covers a range of topics related to nutrition and performance for endurance athletes, including body weight management, fiber intake, pre-race breakfast, fueling strategies, sweat tests, electrolyte needs, core temperature testing, protein intake, and altitude training. The discussion emphasizes the importance of balancing macronutrients, optimizing fueling strategies, and understanding the impact of altitude on energy balance and performance. Takeaways Carbohydrate oxidation rates play a crucial role in endurance sports performance.The use of supplements like creatine, beta-alanine, and sodium bicarbonate can impact performance and recovery. Balancing macronutrients is crucial for optimizing fueling strategies and performance.Altitude training requires careful attention to energy balance and should not be used solely for weight loss. Chapters 00:00 Tim's Journey to Sports Nutrition02:52 Carbohydrate Oxidation Rates and Nutrition Strategies05:51 The Role of Fat Metabolism in Cycling10:12 Supplements for Performance Improvement24:55 Importance of Recovery Nutrition30:02 Body Weight Management and Glycogen Stores31:05 Fiber Intake and Low Residue Diet33:06 Pre-Race Breakfast and Fueling Strategies39:06 Sweat Tests, Electrolyte Needs, and Core Temperature Testing49:42 Protein Intake and Altitude Training

    Pro Cycling's Nutrition Secrets | Dr. Tim Podlogar

  8. Aug 18

    Road Tales Ep. 25 | Arctic Race of Norway Debrief

    The conversation covers Levi's recent cycling race in Switzerland and Cole's experience at the Arctic Race of Norway. It also delves into the challenges faced during the races, the scenic beauty of the locations, and the local cuisine. The conversation covers topics related to endurance racing, weather conditions, winter preparation, and mountain sports. It also delves into the challenges of racing at high altitudes and the differences between road and gravel racing. The discussion concludes with plans for upcoming races and events. The conversation covers topics related to cycling, upcoming races, race strategies, and future plans. It also delves into the concept of six degrees of separation and the butterfly effect. The discussion provides insights into the world of professional cycling and the dynamics of race preparation and participation. Takeaways Cycling races in Switzerland and Norway offer unique challenges and breathtaking scenery.Local cuisine in Norway, including dried fish and salty licorice, may not be to everyone's taste.The strategic and physical demands of racing, as well as the camaraderie and teamwork involved, are key aspects of the cycling experience. Endurance racing challengesWinter preparation for racingAltitude and racing challengesTactical differences between road and gravel racing Cycling race strategiesUpcoming races and race preparation Chapters 00:00 Cycling Race in Switzerland17:27 Arctic Race of Norway28:31 Endurance Racing and Weather Conditions30:51 Winter Preparation and Mountain Sports31:35 Altitude and Racing Challenges48:55 Tactical Differences in Road and Gravel Racing49:16 Upcoming Races and Events50:08 Upcoming Races and Race Preparation59:44 The Concept of Six Degrees of Separation and the Butterfly Effect01:04:26 Professional Cycling and Race Dynamics

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4.7
out of 5
13 Ratings

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Levi Leipheimer and Cole Kessler share stories from two vastly different eras of professional cycling. Levi was one of the best professional cyclists in the world in the 2000s and Cole is new to the professional peloton, but is a two-time national champion.

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