Wheel Talk

Megan Guarnier is back!

Escape Collective — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 11:48:00 -0700

This week on the podcast, Abby sits down with former USA national champion, Giro winner, Olympian, and racing legend Megan Guarnier. The two discuss Megan's career, how she approached racing, her husband Billy, her retirement in 2018, the Olympics, and her return to racing at the age of 41.

Brodie Chapman on changing teams and her first pregnancy

Escape Collective — Mon, 26 Oct 2026 07:36:38 -0600

For the first of our offseason interviews, Abby spoke with friend of the podcast, Brodie Chapman, about moving from UAE Team L’IMAD to Liv AlUla Jayco in 2027, finding out she was pregnant at the Tour de France Femmes, and how her early career shaped her future goals.

In 2026, it wasn't always about the win

Escape Collective — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 12:16:04 -0600

For the final group show of the year, Loren, Abby, and Gracie think back to their favourite moments from the season. Plus, what the heck is going on at Picnic-PostNL?

The G.O.A.T. never left

Escape Collective — Tue, 13 Oct 2026 01:30:01 -0600

Abby, Loren, and Gracie get together this week to talk about Marianne Vos's Gravel World Championships victory, Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney's move to Lidl-Trek, and a couple other transfers to keep an eye on.

Teamwork is everything (again) at European Championships

Escape Collective — Mon, 05 Oct 2026 12:55:14 -0600

This week the band is back together! Abby, Loren, Gracie, and Georgie talk about the Dutch support for Demi Vollering at the European Championships, Laurens ten Dam, and the importance of the U23 category. They also dive into the Junior races and the need for an age limit in the WorldTour.

Montréal Worlds delivers pure entertainment

Escape Collective — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 00:54:39 -0600

Another World Championships is over, and it was one for the books. The best rider in the women's peloton claimed the top step and a rainbow jersey she can wear for the next year, but her two top rivals gave her a run for her money. Abby, Gracie, and Georgie, joined by 2024 ITT world champion and Olympic gold medalist Grace Brown, to talk all about it.

2026 Worlds road race preview

Escape Collective — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 13:52:29 -0600

This week, Abby and Loren are joined again by Hannah Barnes Bewley and Anna Shackley to talk about the World Championship Time Trial, Marlen Reusser's rollercoaster season, why the Italians excel at national team events, and if Demi Vollering can win the road race on Saturday.

Demi and the Dutch WC team

Escape Collective — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 12:07:25 -0600

Without World Tour racing to talk about, Abby, Loren, Anna Shackley, and Hannah Barnes discuss the Dutch World Championship selection, Pauline Ferrand-Prévot's season, and the Faun Tour.

The future of Mischa Bredewold

Escape Collective — Mon, 07 Sep 2026 10:35:03 -0600

This week Abby, Gracie, and Georgie talk about the Classic Lorient Agglomeration, Mischa Bredewold's future, Elisa Balsamo, and the biggest transfers so far.

One epic climb, five months to prepare: Abby's Ventoux Challenge

Escape Collective — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 10:47:03 -0600

As so many of these side quests do, this particular adventure started with an offhand remark on the Wheel Talk Podcast…

This week we dive into Abby's self-inflicted five-month journey to beat a past version of herself up Mont Ventoux. Today, she sits down with the coaching duo who helped her through it - Lizzie and Phil Deignan.

We will be back next week with more from the world of women's professional cycling.

A written story is coming to Escape Collective later this week.

What the Tour of Britain can tell us about the upcoming Worlds

Escape Collective — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 18:28:25 -0600

The five-day Tour of Britain wrapped up on Sunday, and of the five stages, four were won by one ever-dominant rider. The one stage where another shone was a masterclass in bike racing tactics, but even though two riders topped the race, others proved they are coming into form just in time for the World Championships in Montreal in a few weeks.

Lasting impressions of the Tour de France Femmes

Escape Collective — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 12:53:34 -0600

Loren and Abby are back in the "studio" with Gracie and Georgie a week after the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. Now that the dust has settled, the four talk more about their lasting impressions of the race, what went right and what needs improving in the future.

Plus! The Lloyd's Tour of Britain is coming! With some big names set to race this week, it's going to be a fantastic edition of the long standing five day stage race.

Kate Courtney's road to LA 2028 with FDJ United-Suez

Escape Collective — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 07:21:25 -0600

Before the start of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift in Lausanne, Kate Courtney sat down with Abby and Loren to talk about her move to the WorldTour with FDJ United-Suez, how her first road races went, and why she values building her personal brand.

Tour Femmes Daily, stage 9: A definitive finale

Escape Collective — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 17:13:21 -0600

With only eight seconds separating two riders, the final stage of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift came down to one final, absolutely brutal, stage in Nice. It was short, but packed a punch, and the overall classification was decided definitively.

Abby, Loren, and Anna are here to talk about the stage and the final GC standings, with audio diaries from Nat Quinn (Mayenne Monbana My Pie), Franzi Koch (FDJ United-Suez), and Amanda Spratt (with a cameo from Niamh Fisher-Black) (Lidl-Trek).

Tour Femmes Bonus: Other stories from stage 7

Escape Collective — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:10:16 -0600

Every person in the race, from mechanics to riders to directors, has a unique story from each stage of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. Stage 7 was particularly chaotic, and we highlighted it on our episode from the stage, but Abby wanted to share two alternative views on the race: Shawn Clarke, Director for Liv AlUla Jayco, and Fiona Mangan, who rides for Mayenne Monbana My Pie.

Tour Femmes Daily, stage 8: Let's rip up the script

Escape Collective — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 15:30:00 -0600

If there's anything we've learned in the past eight days, it's to expect the unexpected. Any stage can become a GC stage if it's played right. The race is finally in Nice, with the final stage set on a hilly course in the hills, but FDJ United-Suez aren't here to wait for the finale, and 400 metres of road is all they need to flip the script.

Abby, Loren, and Anna have made it to Nice, mostly in one piece, but can hardly belive the stage they just watched.

With audio diaries from Marianne Vos (Visma-Lease a Bike), Nadia Gontova (Liv AlUla Jayco), Heidi Franz (St Michel-Preference Home-Auber93), and Pfeiffer Georgi (Picnic PostNL). Thank you to Lizzie Deignan for previewing the final stage and to Magdeleine Vallieres (EF Education-Oatly) for kicking off the episode.

Tour Femmes Daily, stage 7: Celebrations on Mont Ventoux

Escape Collective — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 15:30:00 -0600

Atop the iconic Mont Ventoux, the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift shattered. Favourites suffered and celebrated; all while the roadside party chanted and cheered.

Today, Abby, Loren, and Anna stopped by the Cheer Squad to talk to some old friends, including Iris Slappendel, Alice Wood, and Matilda Raynolds. They also ran into the Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney cheer squad, who perhaps just had the best day of their lives.

With audio diaries from Pfeiffer Georgi (Picnic PostNL), Marion Bunel (Visma-Lease a Bike), and Amanda Spratt (Lidl-Trek). Stage analysis for stage 8 by Georgie Howe and Gracie Elvin, and a big thank you to Pauline Ferrand-Prévot for the stage introduction.

The race is far from over, and far from wrapped. With two stages remaining, can the yellow jersey change hands (again)?

Tour Femmes Daily, stage 6: Redemption

Escape Collective — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 23:55:57 -0600

Sandwiched between a brutal stage on Wednesday and Mont Ventoux on Friday, the sixth stage could have gone to an early breakaway, a group of gutsy riders who attacked early and stayed away, allowing the GC favorites a break. Instead, eight women, all with something to prove, made the day theirs.

After a season of setbacks, one woman earned redemption, as Mont Ventoux looms in the distance.

The sixth stage of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift saw Kim Le Court-Pienaar take an incredible victory ahead of Cédrine Kerbaol and Puck Pieterse. The win was one she had to fight for, and even though she had some bad luck, the race repaid her in kind.

With audio diaries from Liane Lippert (Movistar), Alice Towers (EF Education-Oatly), Alison Jackson (St Michel-Preference Home-Auber93), and a stage 7 preview from Sarah Gigante (AG Insurance-Soudal).

Tour Femmes Daily, stage 5: Perfection amid chaos

Escape Collective — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 15:27:25 -0600

Stage 5 of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift was set to be a stage where the plan was mostly just a piece of paper, but as the day unfolded, a few teams found themselves in the perfect situation. After the hardest day at the Tour so far, three riders soared while others sank, and the general classification battle became a little bit clearer.

With audio diaries from Sigrid Haugset (Uno-X Mobility), Alison Jackson (St Michel-Preference Home-Auber93), Lily Williams (Human Powered Health), and Alice Towers (EF Education-Oatly).

Tour Femmes Daily, stage 4: A spicy time trial in Dijon

Escape Collective — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 15:09:43 -0600

The race against the clock on stage 4 of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift shook the general classification and ruptured quite a few hopes. Abby and Loren saw the course before the riders raced on it from the follow cars of Liv AlUla Jayco and EF Education-Oatly, and it was not one for the faint of heart. It was for the pure time trialists, and they proved it. The yellow jersey changed hands, and Abby, Loren, and Alex were joined by the one and only Anna Shackley to talk about it.

With audio diaries from Marlen Reusser (Movistar), Heidi Franz (St Michel-Preference Home-Auber93), and Juliette Berthet (FDJ United-Suez).

Tour Femmes Daily, stage 3: A long shot

Escape Collective — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 15:11:11 -0600

Abby and Loren are back from the third stage of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, alongside Escape Collective Tech Reporter Alex Hunt. After driving the entirety of stage three, the trio discuss the real condition of the roads, how the winner perhaps had the upper hand, and more. Plus...bras?

With audio diaries from Alison Jackson (St Michel-Preference Home-Auber93), Lily Williams (Human Powered Health), and Nadia Gontova (Liv AlUla Jayco).

Tour Femmes Daily, stage 2: All in, every day

Escape Collective — Sun, 02 Aug 2026 14:36:43 -0600

Abby and Loren talk about the second stage of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift with a little help from an old friend. Lidl-Trek tried to shake up SD Worx-Protime, and it almost worked. One of the best in the world continues to show why she has that title.

With audio diaries from Amanda "Spratty" Spratt (Lidl-Trek), Lily Williams (Human Powered Health), and Pfeiffer Georgi (Picnic PostNL).

Tour Femmes Daily: GC battle on stage 1?

Escape Collective — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 14:22:27 -0600

The crowds at the start of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift highlighted just how impactful the race has become. In the Grand Depart of its fifth edition, the Tour remains the biggest race for the women's peloton, with the best riders fighting for the win. All the top riders were at the front today, but one in particular proved herself the best and redeemed herself in the process.

Abby and Loren report from the first stage of the Tour de France Femmes with special guest Andy McGrath. Before the stage, Abby sat down with Dominique Powers to talk about photographing the race and how she's seen the Tour change over the years.

With audio diaries from Alice Towers (EF Education-Oatly), Nadia Gontova (Liv AlUla Jayco), and Pauline Ferrand-Prévot (Visma-Lease a Bike).

Read Abby's story with Chrissie Wellington and Emma Pooley here. (edited)

The 2026 Tour de France Femmes Contender's Preview

Escape Collective — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 10:56:14 -0600

Every year the course changes, the contenders shift, but the Tour only grows in prestige. This year, the organizers have delivered what might just be the hardest course we've ever seen at the Tour. The time trial on stage 4 and the Queen Stage that finishes atop Mont Ventoux on stage 7 are standouts, but to win, every stage is important.

Demi Vollering and Pauline Ferrand-Prévot might be the two everyone is talking about, but are Marlen Reusser and Anna van der Breggen the real threats in this Tour de France Femmes?

Here is a breakdown of the true contenders for the 2026 Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift: those who have been on everyone's lips, and those who have quietly targeted the Tour and will stop at nothing to take the top honors.

Find the written piece here.

Niamh Fisher-Black is learning how to be a leader

Escape Collective — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 11:30:14 -0600

A few weeks before the start of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, Niamh Fisher-Black was in a hotel in Andorra with Lidl-Trek already preparing for the biggest race on the calendar. Fresh off a gutsy ride that landed her fifth overall at the Giro d'Italia, Niamh spoke with Abby about her progression in the sport and why it's important to always find the fun in racing a bike.

Antonia Niedermaier has the best poker face for a reason

Escape Collective — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 10:40:23 -0600

In the build-up to the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, we at Wheel Talk wanted to highlight a few riders. First: Antonia Niedermaier, German rider for Canyon-SRAM. Niedermaier finished second at the Giro d'Italia after a gutsy ride in the final stage. Going into the Tour, she will be riding support, but who knows what's next in store for this horse-loving phenom.

The 2026 Tour de France Femmes Route (in detail)

Escape Collective — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 10:02:16 -0600

With the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift starting on Saturday, Abby, Loren, Gracie, and Georgie break down the 2026 route in detail.

Plus, Abby talked to Iris Slappendel about the Cheer Squad that will be on Mont Ventoux for stage 7.

The Wheel Talk Tour de France Femmes Draft

Escape Collective — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 10:14:25 -0600

This week, with the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift on the horizon, Abby, Loren, Gracie, and Georgie draft their own teams for the nine-day race. But first, they talk about the Baloise Ladies Tour and Kate Courtney's introduction to road racing with the top team in the WorldTour.

A disclaimer: the finalized rosters for the Tour are not out, so the draft is based on assumptions. Adjustments will be made once the final start list is released.

Elise Chabbey talks pregnancy postive days before Giro d'Italia

Escape Collective — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 10:00:00 -0600

This week on the podcast, Abby sat down with Elise Chabbey, top rider for FDJ United-Suez and winner of Strade Bianche, to talk about how she found out she was pregnant and what her thought process was after. With big goals on the horizon, what does the time away from the peloton mean for the Swiss rider, and for her team?

Maternity leave and ice socks

Escape Collective — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:00:00 -0600

This week, Abby, Loren, and Gracie talk about the recent news that Elise Chabbey and Emma Norsgaard are pregnant, Kate Courtney, ice socks and the future of the sport amid the recent heat waves, and BTS.

How Rebecca Charlton relied on cycling through cancer diagnosis

Escape Collective — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 01:10:00 -0600

This week, Abby sat down with Rebecca Charlton, commentator for TNT and Wheel Talk regular, to talk about her mid-Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift cancer diagnosis in 2025 and the year that followed. Rebecca talks about how cycling helped her through the hardest year of her life, how everything impacted her as a mother, and more.

Building confidence at the Tour de Suisse

Escape Collective — Sun, 21 Jun 2026 21:30:00 -0600

We are back to our regularly scheduled podcast this week as Abby, Gracie, and Georgie talk all things Tour de Suisse. From Zoe Backstedt to Marlen Reusser, from horrendous heat to that time trial on stage 4, there's a lot to say about the final WorldTour race before the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift in over a month.

Amanda "Spratty" Spratt's last hurrah

Escape Collective — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 05:29:47 -0600

This week, we go back in time to just before the Spring Classics, when Abby sat down with Amanda "Spratty" Spratt to talk about her final season racing bikes.

Normal episodes of the podcast will resume after the Tour de Suisse, which kicks off on Wednesday, June 17th. The five-stage race will feature a few potential Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift contenders, so we will have plenty to discuss next week. Check out the Wheel Talk Newsletter on EscapeCollective.com for a full breakdown of the stages and contenders.

Giro d'Italia stage 9: When dreams become reality

Escape Collective — Sun, 07 Jun 2026 15:07:55 -0600

The final stage of the Giro d'Italia absolutely delivered. What a day of bike racing! Heartbreak for some meant healing for others. A stage that wasn't originally billed as a race-changing day turned into the biggest fight of the week.

Abby and Loren called up a team fitting of such a stage: Anna Shackley and Alice Barnes. Plus audio diaries from Eva van Agt (FDJ United-Suez), Amanda "Spratty" Spratt (Lidl-Trek), and an EF Education-Oatly double with Alexis Magner and Magdeleine Vallieres.

Giro d'Italia stage 8: What could have been...

Escape Collective — Sat, 06 Jun 2026 14:37:06 -0600

The eighth stage of the Giro d'Italia was supposed to be the big one. The stage that would all but determine the general classification, even with one final stage remaining. Instead, the stage was cut short by about 27 km and one iconic climb. The battle that was foretold came to nothing, which means the final stage is going to be...well. It's going to be something to watch.

For the eighth episode of our Giro Daily podcasts, Loren and Abby are joined by Julie Leth to talk about the stage and what could have been, plus what they think will happen on Sunday.

With audio diaries from Antonia Niedermaier (Canyon-SRAM), Lauren Dickson (FDJ United-Suez), and Amanda "Spratty" Spratt (Lidl-Trek).

Giro d'Italia stage 7: Expect the unexpected, or better yet, expect Alison Jackson to attack

Escape Collective — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 14:04:25 -0600

The seventh stage was unpredictable, with a category 3 climb that topped out with 27 km to go. Other than the one climb, it was a flatter stage, so would Elisa Balsamo harness her Lidl-Trek teammates to control the race? Could a breakaway finally sneak in for a victory? Or would some of the GC riders who have already lost time go for it on the descent? Or...all of the above?

Loren and Abby are joined by Sarah Roy to talk about the seventh stage and what's to come on Saturday.

Audio diaries today include Alison Jackson (St Michel-Preference Home-Auber93), Femke de Vries (Visma-Lease a Bike), and Alexis Magner (EF Education-Oatly).

Giro d'Italia stage 6: Embrace the YOLO mentality

Escape Collective — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 13:48:44 -0600

The Giro d'Italia is officially "almost over". Stage 6 is done and dusted, and even though Uno-X Mobility tried to make the race chaotic, it ended up coming down to the fastest rider(s) once again.

Today, Anna Shackley is back with Abby and Loren to talk about stage 6 and look ahead to stage 7. Will the breakaway finally get its chance?

Our audio diarists today include Nienke Veehoven of Visma-Lease a Bike, Caroline Andersson of Liv AlUla Jayco, and Maggie Coles-Lyster of Human Powered Health.

Giro d'Italia stage 5: Under pressure

Escape Collective — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 16:00:19 -0600

The fifth stage of the Giro d'Italia was a brutal day, with over 3,000 metres of elevation gain in 146 km. The racing started when the flag dropped, with every team trying to send riders up the road. The stage ended up going to the favorites, as some minor movements were made in the general classification.

Aidan Burgess (@burgess_and_his_bike) and Georgie are back to talk about the stage and what it means for the race, with Abby.

Audio diaries today come from Alison Jackson (St Michel-Preference Home-Auber93) and Cecilie Uttrup Ludwig (Canyon-SRAM).

Giro d'Italia stage 4: GC riders take center stage in uphill time trial

Escape Collective — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 13:34:08 -0600

The fourth stage of the Giro d'Italia was a 12.7 km, majority uphill, time trial, which meant it was finally time for the general classification hopefuls to dust off their watts and fight for the jersey.

The results were something to write home about, and with five stages remaining, we've got a real battle on our hands.

Hannah Barnes, Giro stage winner, and Anna Shackley, former teammate of the entire podium, join Abby to discuss stage 4 and what's to come in stage 5 on Wednesday.

With audio diaries from Vittoria Guazzini (FDJ United-Suez), Alexis Magner (EF Education-Oatly), and Amanda "Spratty" Spratt (Lidl-Trek).

Giro d'Italia stage 3: Who said a 2.5 km climb isn't for the GC contenders?

Escape Collective — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 14:06:16 -0600

The third stage of the Giro d'Italia, with a category 3 climb of 2.5 km with 22 km to go, looked like one for a reduced bunch, but the general classification contenders had other ideas. The finish was still far from a surprise...depending on who you ask.

Today, Gracie and Abby are joined by Anna Shackley, former rider for SD Worx-Protime, to talk about all the action.

With audio diaries from breakaway legend Alison Jackson (St Michel-Preference Home-Auber 93), Matilde Vitillo (Liv AlUla Jayco), and Maggie Coles-Lyster (Human Powered Health).

Giro d'Italia Women stage 2: 20 grams and a fast finish

Escape Collective — Sun, 31 May 2026 15:08:40 -0600

Stage 2 of the Giro d'Italia continued the drama that wrapped the first stage. The situation with Lorena Wiebes hung over the peloton, but didn't stop the rest of the sprinters from doing their thing.

In this second Giro Daily podcast, Abby is joined by Georgie and Aidan Burgess (@burgess_and_his_bike) to break down stage 2 and the disqualification of Wiebes.

With audio diaries from Nienke Veenhoven of Visma-Lease a Bike, Alexis Magner of EF Education-Oatly, Caroline Andersson of Liv AlUla Jayco, and Soraya Paladin of Canyon-SRAM.

It wouldn't be the Giro d'Italia without some drama

Escape Collective — Sat, 30 May 2026 14:23:15 -0600

Abby, Loren, and Gracie tune in for the first stage of the Giro d'Italia, a sprint stage from Cesenatico to Ravenna. Lorena Wiebes won the stage, but it wasn't the end of the race for the Dutch champion. Drama would follow the SD Worx-Protime rider hours after she pulled on the pink jersey.

A few riders commented on the technicality of the final circuit, and Gracie has some thoughts.

With audio diaries from Maggie Coles-Lyster of Human Powered Health and Amanda Spratt of Lidl-Trek.

Elisa Longo Borghini's perfectly imperfect 2025 Giro d'Italia

Escape Collective — Fri, 29 May 2026 02:06:51 -0600

In this special episode of the Wheel Talk podcast, Abby sat down with 2024 and 2025 Giro d'Italia winner Elisa Longo Borghini to talk about how she won the Giro with UAE Team ADQ. Elisa dives deep into her move from Lidl-Trek to UAE Team ADQ, how she prepared for the 2025 Giro, and how she won the race.

The 2026 Giro d'Italia starts on Saturday, and Wheel Talk will be bringing you daily podcasts all race long. Tune in for rider diaries and analysis from all your favorite voices.

For the written story about Elisa's Giro victory, check out EscapeCollective.com.

And here's a stage-by-stage breakdown of the race.

Thanks for listening!

Vuelta a Burgos wraps the Spanish block

Escape Collective — Mon, 25 May 2026 09:39:06 -0600

Abby, Georgie, Gracie, and Loren break down all four stages of the Vuelta a Burgos. From the first two days for the sprinter(s), the second explosive stage that continued a fantastic run of form for a podcast favourite, and the final GC stage that allowed a new GC contender to emerge.

Next, Abby spoke with Elisa Balsamo about sprinting against Lorena Wiebes, Lidl-Trek, and her wedding dress (written story coming to Escape Collective later this week).

And finally, the team looks ahead to the Giro d'Italia, set to start Saturday, May 30th.

Read Matt's story about Yara Kastelijn's victory here.

Stay tuned for a special podcast on Friday, where Elisa Longo Borghini details her Giro d'Italia victory with Abby.

Love what we do? Sign up for Escape Collective at escapecollective.com/wheeltalk

Two riders, three stages - an Itzulia Women rerun

Escape Collective — Mon, 18 May 2026 09:41:45 -0600

This week, Abby, Georgie, and Loren are joined by special guest Matt de Neef of Escape Collective to talk about Itzulia Women - the latest WorldTour stage race in Spain, and Abby spoke with Lauren Dickson of FDJ United-Suez about the breakthrough results that landed her on the top team in women's cycling.

The three stages and overall were swept by two riders, but neither was a member of the strongest team in the race. Mischa Bredewold was back for the third year, with a vengeance, while Dominika Włodarczyk surprised with a standout performance. Meanwhile, FDJ United-Suez was doing...something else.

Earlier this year, Abby spoke with Lauren Dickson, who had a standout ride at Itzulia, about her rapid rise through the ranks and riding with some of the top women in the sport. You can read Matt's written story based on the interview here.

Love women's cycling? Sign up for Escape Collective at escapecollective.com/wheeltalk to support this podcast, and thank you for listening!

La Vuelta break down with Brodie Chapman

Escape Collective — Mon, 11 May 2026 09:55:06 -0600

This week, Abby, Gracie, and Georgie are joined by a very special guest to analyze La Vuelta Femenina: UAE Team ADQ's Brodie Chapman. They discussed the "comeback" of SD Worx-Protime and especially Lotte Kopecky and Anna van der Breggen, the famous L'Angliru, and the young riders who animated this year's Vuelta.

With "before the coverage" audio diaries from Alexis Magner and Babette van der Wolf of EF Education-Oatly and Riejanne Markus of Lidl-Trek.

Love women's cycling? Become a member of Escape Collective by signing up at EscapeCollective.com/wheeltalk

Kasia's fantastic Spring and the Vuelta

Escape Collective — Mon, 04 May 2026 17:25:35 -0600

This week, Abby talked to Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney about her Spring campaign, how she really feels about coming second, what was different coming into the season, and La Vuelta Femenina.

Gracie, Georgie, and Loren joined Abby to talk about the Vuelta stages, what to look out for, and who they're watching for the GC in the final two stages.

The written piece on Kasia can be found here.

Abby also referenced Matt's story about the Vuelta, which can be found here.

For more on the Vuelta this week, read Abby's stage-by-stage breakdown of the route and overview of the possible contenders.

Love what we do? Sign up for Escape Collective by using this link: escapecollective.com/wheeltalk

Comfort or confidence? The transformation of Demi Vollering

Escape Collective — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 09:48:22 -0600

Loren, Gracie, and Georgie joined Abby this week to wrap up the Classics with a discussion of La Flèche Wallonne and Liège-Bastogne-Liège. They talked about FDJ United-Suez's continued dominance and how Demi Vollering has transformed while with the team. They also discussed the live coverage situation and the upcoming Vuelta España.

What a podium presentation says about someone's personality

Escape Collective — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 03:07:56 -0600

Georgie and Gracie joined Abby this week to talk about De Brabantse Pijl and the Amstel Gold Race. They discussed the continued power of FDJ United-Suez with Célia Gery, another top rider to add to their list of wins this year, how SD Worx-Protime is still struggling to execute, and what to expect from the final two races of the spring.

Abby also sat down with Femke de Vries to talk about her time at Visma-Lease a Bike and the interesting way she found herself on one of the best teams in the world. You can find the written story here.

Between a Koch and a hard place at Paris-Roubaix

Escape Collective — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 20:29:36 -0600

In this special episode of the Wheel Talk podcast, Abby and Loren are on the ground at Paris-Roubaix Femmes. They chat with Alice Jackson from Rouleur about the shortened live coverage this year, catch up with Marianne Vos before the start, and try to break down how the race played out while recording beside the velodrome.

With audio diaries from Franziska Koch (FDJ United-Suez) herself as well as Martina Martins (Canyon-SRAM-zondacrypto), Alexis Ryan (EF Education-Oatly), Lauretta Hanson (Lidl-Trek), and Jeanne Korevaar (Liv-AlUla-Jayco).

FDJ United-Suez is changing the game

Escape Collective — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 09:30:00 -0600

This week on the podcast, Abby, Georgie, Loren, and Gracie talk Tour of Flanders and Dwars door Vlaanderen: does FDJ United-Suez have any faults (not this week, they don't), what is going wrong with UAE Team ADQ, Marlen Reusser's comeback and subsequent injury, and more.

Plus, Abby talked to Franziska Koch, the best transfer of the year, about her move to FDJ United-Suez, taking on a leadership role at Paris-Roubaix Femmes, and what you need to know ahead of the big Classics races as a rider.

Why wait for a sprint?

Escape Collective — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 09:30:00 -0600

This week, Abby, Gracie, Georgie, and Loren focus on the Ronde van Brugge and In Flanders Fields-In Wevelgem. They discuss the sprint that ended an incredible winning streak, how the peloton got to that point, and which teams are finally putting everything together, as well as how UAE Team ADQ and FDJ United-Suez could have played the race on Sunday differently.

Abby also sat down with Lucinda Brand of Lidl-Trek to talk about her incredible cyclocross season, her role on the road team, and how the team is starting to come together just in time for the Tour of Flanders.

Don't call it a comeback

Escape Collective — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 09:30:00 -0600

The full team of Gracie, Loren, Georgie, and Abby are back this week for a lengthy discussion on Milan San Remo, including the attack that wasn't on the Cipressa, that crash, how UAE Team ADQ lost the race, and how Lotte Kopecky won it. Plus: a discussion of whether this means SD Worx-Protime can salvage their spring.

Abby also called up Margaux Vigié, who was one of the Visma-Lease a Bike riders to go down in the crash, to talk about her perspective on the incident.

Abby also sat down with Pfeiffer Georgi of Picnic PostNL to talk about her comeback after crashing in the 2024 Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, her role on the team, and more.

A barrel of UAE Team ADQ riders

Escape Collective — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 09:30:00 -0600

There was a lot to talk about after the Trofeo Alfredo Binda, so Loren, Gracie, and Georgie all joined Abby this week on the podcast. We discuss the strength and depth of UAE Team ADQ, the importance of confidence in yourself and your team, how data has changed in-race decisions, and more.

Was Strade Bianche the best bike race we've ever seen?

Escape Collective — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:30:00 -0600

It's a full team this week to discuss Strade Bianche! Gracie, Loren, and Georgie joined Abby to talk all about FDJ United-Suez, how the team expertly pivoted when Demi Vollering was taken off the board, what made Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney and Elisa Longo Borghini's bids for the win different from Chabbey and Koch's, and more.

We also talked about the importance of The Cyclists' Alliance, and you can find my written piece on their financial difficulties here.

The Omloop did not disappoint

Escape Collective — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 09:30:00 -0700

A lot was learning during Opening Weekend, and Abby, Loren, and Gracie are here to break it all down. From FDJ United-Suez's seamless tactics to a promising spring ahead for Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney and our favourite storylines to look forward to this Classics season. Up next: Strade Bianche!

The power of social media

Escape Collective — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 09:06:12 -0700

It's Opening Week! The week before opening weekend, the Wheel Talk podcast just opened our new Instagram account. Follow us for women's cycling coverage and news, plus more content from Abby, Georgie, Loren and Gracie.

This week, we talk about Pauline Ferrand-Prèvot's extension, salary caps, and the upcoming Classic - Omloop Het Nieuwsblad.

Plus, Abby chatted with Cecilie Uttrup Ludwig about coming back from her crash in 2024, her first year with Canyon-SRAM zondacrypto, and the one race she wants to add to her palmares.

Pros and cons of the 'new' Paris Roubaix Femmes

Escape Collective — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 10:47:38 -0700

After a windy edition of Setmana Valenciana, Gracie, Loren, and Abby chat about the Spanish stage race that attracts a good amount of top talent. They also break down the new Paris Roubaix Femmes course, what it means, and how the change of date will impact the race. Finally, it's back to the Winter Olympics to talk about which retired riders would return to the peloton today and throw their hats in the ring.

They're coming for you, Lorena Wiebes

Escape Collective — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 08:41:04 -0700

Gracie, Loren, Georgie, and Abby are back this week to talk about the UAE Tour, Lorena Wiebes, sprinting in February, UAE Team ADQ, and...the Winter Olympics.

The rivalry between UAE Team ADQ and FDJ United-Suez is heating up

Escape Collective — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 14:21:44 -0700

This week, Abby, Gracie, and Georgie wrap up all the action in Australia with a chat about the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race, including a fantastic rant from Gracie about the "doomed" solo breakaway. Georgie also sat down with Tour Down Under winner Noemi Rüegg before the race on Saturday to talk about her win in Adelaide, plus we look ahead to the UAE Tour and the Winter Olympics in Italy.

Australia never disappoints

Escape Collective — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 12:03:22 -0700

Before the peloton makes its way to Geelong for the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race, Abby, Georgie, and Matilda Raynolds have a few points to wrap up the Tour Down Under. Plus, in Mallorca, it's Movistar vs. UAE Team ADQ for two (maybe three) races straight.

Mistakes and mastery in a wonderful TDU finale

Escape Collective — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 09:15:33 -0700

After a thrilling conclusion to the women's Tour Down Under, Matt de Neef and Gracie Elvin are joined by reigning Olympic time trial champ Grace Brown to break down all the action from a dramatic final stage.

The WorldTour season starts with a thriller

Escape Collective — Sat, 17 Jan 2026 12:07:12 -0700

The 2026 WorldTour season is underway at the Santos Tour Down Under in Adelaide. After a fascinating finale to the opening stage, Matt de Neef and Gracie Elvin are joined by TDU assistant race director Nettie Edmondson to break down all the action and take a peek behind the curtain of Australia's biggest bike race.

We're back Down Under

Escape Collective — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 11:57:59 -0700

It's 2026, and we're back! This week, the whole team gets together to talk about the Australian Road Nationals and preview the upcoming Tour Down Under.

The official Wheel Talk playlist

Escape Collective — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 14:18:21 -0700

The team is back for the final episode of 2025 to talk about the latest news in women's cycling and create a totally chaotic Wheel Talk playlist just for you.

Calling in the (mental) expert

Escape Collective — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 11:31:46 -0700

For the final interview of the year, Abby got the chance to talk to David Spindler, neuroscientist and Cognitive Performance Strategist. He has worked with some of the top riders in men's and women's cycling, as well as a host of other sports. They talked about some of the most common mental struggles for professional athletes and how David helps his riders maintain happy lives while excelling at their craft.

Ellen van Dijk has seen it all

Escape Collective — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:19:37 -0700

This week, Wheel Talk continues the offseason interviews with a conversation with Ellen van Dijk. Ellen and Abby talk about Ellen's delayed retirement, her bid for the 2024 Olympic time trial in Paris, her pregnancy, and her time with Lidl-Trek vs. other teams.

Cycling is confidence and self-love

Escape Collective — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 11:41:27 -0700

This week, Abby talked to Gracia Sotomayor, the artistic cyclist from Peru. Sotomayor grew up knowing that, as a woman in a man's world, she had to be a certain way and do certain things. She had it all – a stable, good job, a home, and a partner to take care of her, but she was unhappy. When she started riding her fixed gear bike, everything changed. A few years later, Sotomayor was living in Germany, training to become Peru's first artistic cyclist on the world stage. Now, she inspires Spanish speakers everywhere to gain confidence and independence through cycling.

The unseen struggle behind women's cycling rise

Escape Collective — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 11:28:01 -0700

You could make a Bingo game out of how many times Gracie, Loren, Georgia, or Abby bring up the development problem in women's cycling – the lack of lower-level races and teams, WorldTour teams signing riders too young, etc. But we aren't the only ones constantly harping on about these issues. This week, Loren and Abby sat down with someone who has been pinpointing these problems for years and is actively working to combat the lack of development on a daily basis: Natascha Knaven-den Ouden.

If you follow her on social media, you'll know she has come head-to-head with a lot of the challenges currently facing the lower levels of women's road cycling, and as the General Manager for NXTG Racing, she's guiding the next generation through the growing landscape.

After a breakthrough 2025, what's next for Talia Appleton?

Escape Collective — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 10:19:07 -0700

This week, Abby handed the mic over to Matt de Neef, who got the chance to catch up with one of Australia's up-and-coming talents, Talia Appleton. Appleton has been upping her game every season, but broke through in earnest this year with a podium finish at Tour de l'Avenir and a stellar ride at the World Championships. Matt sat down with her to talk about how she felt this season and what she's eyeing in the coming years.

Make sure to read Matt's written piece here.

Tiffany Cromwell understands GRVL

Escape Collective — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 13:15:46 -0700

This week on the Wheel Talk Podcast, Abby chats with road cycling legend Tiffany Cromwell about her split focus on road and gravel with Canyon-SRAM-zondacrypto, the future of gravel and how the discipline can improve, and what it's like to be a race promoter in gravel right now.

Lorena Wiebes was the best bike racer of 2025

Escape Collective — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 10:08:29 -0700

In their final group show of the season (maybe), Loren, Gracie, and Abby talk about their top moments of the year, their favourite riders, and their favourite teams. They also answer some questions sent in by listeners about the best staff members of teams, best domestiques, and more.

You can send in your own question for the team to answer, just head on over to this link to record an audio message.

Ventoux! Time trial! Bring on the 2026 Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift

Escape Collective — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 10:07:16 -0600

This week, we take a detour from chatting about the 2025 season to talk next summer. The ASO unveiled the route for the 2026 Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift last Thursday, and it has everything. Iconic climbs, a legit time trial, plenty of opportunities for the opportunists, and a leg-breaking circuit race to end the nine-stage week. One thing missing? Sprint stages. Abby sits down with Kate Veronneau to talk about next year's Tour, what they are excited about (everything), and Zwift's decision to continue sponsorship of the race for four more years.

Wheel Talk merch, anyone?

Escape Collective — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 10:10:12 -0600

This week on the podcast Abby, Loren, Gracie, and Georgie talk about the races in China – the Tour of Chongming Island and the Tour of Guangxi – and how they might better fit in the calendar. They discuss Liv AlUla Jayco's Continental team and what they're doing right, Mavi García's departure from the team, the importance of a social media presence for riders, and the death of the long time trial in women's cycling.

Next week we are going to talk about the season as a whole, so if you've got any topics you want us to touch on or questions for us, you can submit those and tag us on the Wheel Talk Discord or leave a voice memo HERE. If you leave us a vocie message, make sure to select "Wheel Talk" from the dropdown menu.

The UCI vs. the spirit of gravel

Escape Collective — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 09:01:40 -0600

Gracie, Georgie and Abby try to figure out what on earth happened at the Gravel World Championships over the weekend and discuss the Lorena Wiebes win rate from 2025 and more in this week's Wheel Talk Podcast episode.

With a cameo from Heidi Franz, who finished thirteenth at the Gravel Worlds on Saturday.

They want that European Championship jersey

Escape Collective — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 10:12:16 -0600

This week the whole team of Georgie, Loren, Gracie, and Abby talk European Championships, the UCI's decision to cut the U23 Nations Cup series, and more.

How Magdeleine Vallieres prepared for the Worlds here.

Favourites fumble World title in Rwanda, underdogs rise to the top

Escape Collective — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 10:28:46 -0600

To honour the epic World Championship road race we saw on Saturday, we've assembled an equally epic podcast team this week: Grace Brown and Iris Slappendel join Abby and Gracie to talk about what went wrong for the French, Dutch and Italian teams in Kilgali and what went right for the podium.

With audio diaries from Alison Jackson (Canada), Amanda Spratt (Australia) and Niamh Fisher-Black (New Zealand).

It's been a long time coming...

Escape Collective — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 06:57:07 -0600

This week on the Wheel Talk Podcast we are obsessed with time trialling...the World Championships time trials to be exact. Gracie, Loren, and Abby look back at the elite women's race on Sunday, what it means for the upcoming road race, who opted to skip the race against the clock in favour of their chances on Saturday, and the U23 ITT and riders to watch in the future. Plus, an update on the latest transfers and more news (hint: babies!).

News roundup and Worlds ITT preview

Escape Collective — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 10:08:54 -0600

World Championships week starts on Sunday with the elite time trials, and we're here to break it down for you. Abby, Georgie, and Gracie also discuss the latest transfers, Fem van Empel's decision to step away from road, and the Tour Féminin de l'Ardeche where Lotte Kopecky ended her road season after taking one final win.

Simac Ladies Tour, transfers, and side quests

Escape Collective — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 12:07:00 -0600

This week Abby, Gracie, Loren, and Georgie chat the latest transfers, the Simac Ladies Tour, the upcoming Tour de Feminin l'Ardeche (and its time trial), and more.

Transfer season is heating up

Escape Collective — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 10:37:27 -0600

This week we talk about the end of Ceratizit, some of the top transfers so far, the Classic Lorient Agglomération (GP de Plouay), and the upcoming Simac Ladies Tour.

August mailbag

Escape Collective — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 10:59:13 -0600

It's mailbag week! With limited racing to discuss this week, Abby, Gracie, Georgie, and Loren answer some of your burning questions. From what we want to see in women's cycling going forward to that Serena Williams ad. Plus: who was our messiest teammate? It's a fun one this week.

The UCI can fix cycling (no really, they can)

Escape Collective — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 11:42:27 -0600

This week on the Wheel Talk Podcast, Abby, Loren, Gracie, and Georgie dive into the Tour de Romandie Féminin and the UCI's decision to disqualify five teams before the start of the first stage. They also talk about Charlotte Kool's move to Fenix-Decuninck and what that means for the sprinter and the Dutch team.

The impact of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift continues to spread

Escape Collective — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 10:13:49 -0600

This week on the podcast, Matt de Neef, Georgie Howe, and Iris Slappendel join Abby Mickey to talk about some of the biggest stories from the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. From the massive increase in viewership to where the top riders of this year's Tour go from here. There is far too much to talk about from this year's edition.

Performance for women – are we really optimizing what we should?

Escape Collective — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 13:05:23 -0600

Today, Georgie sits down with Dr Stacy Sims to discuss how women – from the professional to amateur ranks – should optimize their hormones for performance. This was a recording before the TDFF, but we thought it was an apt time to publish given the conversations sparked. It is all in an endeavor to answer the question: how sustainable is the current state of professional women’s cycling?

Tour de France Femmes, stage 9: A grand finale

Escape Collective — Sun, 03 Aug 2025 19:22:35 -0600

The fourth edition of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift is now complete and today’s final stage delivered plenty of entertaining storylines. Join Georgie Howe and Matt de Neef as they break down another action-packed day of racing at the biggest event on the women's calendar. This final episode features audio diaries from Niamh Fisher-Black (Lidl-Trek), Mags Vallieres (EF Education-Oatly), and Ally Wollaston (FDJ-Suez).

Director Files: Musical cars

Escape Collective — Sun, 03 Aug 2025 00:21:09 -0600

For the last time this Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift Shawn Clarke calls in from the Liv AlUla Jayco team car. Shawn comments on stages 7 and 8, two of the most exciting days of the race, including the decisive Queen stage.

Tour de France Femmes, stage 8: The mighty Madeleine

Escape Collective — Sat, 02 Aug 2025 18:49:51 -0600

The queen stage of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift proved every bit as decisive as we'd expected. Join Georgie Howe and Matt de Neef on the Col de la Madeleine as stage 8 unfolds before your ears. This episode features audio diaries from Sarah Gigante (AG Insurance-Soudal), Ally Wollaston (FDJ-Suez), Jelena Erić (Movistar), and Magdeleine Vallieres (EF Education-Oatly).

Tour de France Femmes, stage 7: An amazing fight as the Madeleine looms

Escape Collective — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 17:12:55 -0600

The Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift has been entertaining from the very start and today’s stage into Chambéry was no exception. Join Georgie Howe and Matt de Neef as they break down the big storylines from another great day of racing as the queen stage beckons. This episode features audio diaries from Sarah Gigante (AG Insurance-Soudal), Emma Norsgaard (Lidl-Trek), and Brodie Chapman (UAE Team ADQ).

Tour de France Femmes, stage 6: Brilliant silver linings

Escape Collective — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 16:20:54 -0600

The proper climbs have begun at the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift and it’s been non-stop action as a result. Join Georgie Howe and Matt de Neef as they break down an entertaining and satisfying stage 6. Today’s episode features audio diaries from Imogen Wolff (Visma-Lease a Bike), Ally Wollaston (FDJ-Suez), and Sarah Gigante (AG Insurance-Soudal).

Director Files: Move up!

Escape Collective — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 00:01:16 -0600

Shawn Clarke is back, reporting from the Liv AlUla Jayco team car. Clarke talks through his observations from car 2 - more crashes, full gas racing, and more riders struggling with positioning.

Tour de France Femmes, stage 5: A wonderfully entertaining finale

Escape Collective — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 16:34:08 -0600

We aren’t even into the proper climbs yet and already the GC contenders are coming out to play. Join Georgie Howe and Matt de Neef as they break down all the action from stage 5 of the 2025 Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. Today’s episode features audio diaries from Ella Wyllie (Liv AlUla Jayco), Brodie Chapman (UAE Team ADQ), and Niamh Fisher-Black (Lidl-Trek).

Tour de France Femmes, stage 4: The best we’ve ever seen?

Escape Collective — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 16:29:16 -0600

In some ways it was a regulation sprint stage at the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, but there was still plenty to talk about. Georgie Howe and Matt de Neef are joined by the wonderful Iris Slappendel to break down all of the action from a fast and fascinating day of racing. This episode features audio diaries from Franzi Koch (Picnic-PostNL), Ella Wyllie (Liv AlUla Jayco), Sarah Van Dam (Ceratizit), and Imogen Wolff (Visma-Lease a Bike).

Tour de France Femmes, stage 3: Not what we wanted to see

Escape Collective — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 15:54:06 -0600

It was a day that looked to be heading towards a rather routine sprint finish. And then things took a turn for the worse. Loren Rowney, Georgie Howe, and Matt de Neef bring you all the headlines and more from a dramatic third stage of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. This episode features audio diaries from Franzi Koch (Picnic-PostNL), Niamh Fisher-Black (Lidl-Trek), Jelena Erić (Movistar), and Susanne Andersen (Uno-X Mobility).

Director Files: Inside the team car at the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift

Escape Collective — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 03:44:21 -0600

Abby here, momentarily infiltrating the Wheel Talk podcast for this mini-episode with Shawn Clarke, Director for Liv AlUla Jayco. After a fantastic start to the race for the team, Shawn checks in with some insights from inside the caravan at the biggest race in women's cycling.

Tour de France Femmes, stage 2: The perfect late attack

Escape Collective — Sun, 27 Jul 2025 14:49:38 -0600

Two days of the 2025 Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, two wonderfully entertaining stages. Loren Rowney, Georgie Howe, and Matt de Neef break down all the action from a day where the oldest rider in the race took stage honours and Kim Le Court made history. Today’s episode features audio diaries from Sarah Van Dam (Ceratizit), Ella Wyllie (Liv AlUla Jayco), Imogen Wolff (Visma-Lease a Bike), and Susanne Andersen (Uno-X Mobility).

Tour de France Femmes, stage 1: Vos in yellow after Visma masterclass

Escape Collective — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 17:51:03 -0600

What a stage to kickstart the fourth edition of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift! Loren Rowney, Georgie Howe, and Matt de Neef break down all the action from a day in which the stage-hunters and GC favourites (and the GOAT herself) duked it out for the first yellow jersey of this year's Tour. Today’s episode features audio diaries from Brodie Chapman (UAE Team ADQ), Jelena Erić (Movistar), Ally Wollaston (FDJ-Suez), and Mags Vallieres (EF Education-Oatly).

The world's best line up in Vannes for the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift

Escape Collective — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 14:03:20 -0600

Matt de Neef, Loren Rowney, and Georgie Howe are on the ground at the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. On the eve of the race, they discuss all the top contenders for the general classification and stages, plus chat with Iris Slappendel, Kim Le Court (AG Insurance-Soudal) and Cecilie Uttrup Ludwig (Canyon-SRAM zondacrypto) ahead of the fourth edition of The Femmes.

Special ep: There’s a new Canadian in town

Escape Collective — Thu, 24 Jul 2025 09:47:51 -0600

Fresh off an impressive performance at the Giro d’Italia Women and days before the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, Abby sat down with Sarah Van Dam, Ceratizit’s breakout star of 2024. In her first season in the WorldTour Van Dam has already finished on the podium of a WWT stage race – the Itzulia Women – but she doesn’t want to be considered just a climber just yet.

You can also read more about her over at Escape Collective.

Will this be the hardest Tour de France Femmes yet?

Escape Collective — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 11:52:12 -0600

Today on the Wheel Talk podcast we briefly look back at a wicked fast Giro d'Italia Women and look ahead to the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift with a full route breakdown featuring the one and only Sarah Gigante.

Giro stage 8, this one's for the team

Escape Collective — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 13:51:27 -0600

Abby and Georgie talk about the Giro d'Italia overall, the final stage, and more. With audio diaries from Brodie Chapman (UAE Team ADQ), Amanda "Spratty" Spratt (Lidl-Trek), Ana Vitória Magalhães (Movistar), and Lea Curinier (FDJ-Suez).

Giro stage 7, a new Queen is crowned atop Monte Nerone

Escape Collective — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 19:13:57 -0600

Abby and Loren are joined again by Esra Tromp to talk about the Queen stage of the Giro d'Italia, and what a stage it was! Heroic tactics, incredible teamwork, and new woman in pink. With audio diaries from Sarah Gigante (AG Insurance-Soudal), Brodie Chapman (UAE Team ADQ), Josie Talbot (Liv AlUla Jayco), and Becky Storrie (PicNic PostNL).

Giro stage 6, no dull day at the Giro

Escape Collective — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 15:02:08 -0600

Abby and Loren are joined by EF Education-Oatly Team Manager Esra Tromp to talk about a wild sixth day at the Giro d'Italia Women. With audio diaries from Mirre Knaven (EF Education-Oatly), Lea Curinier (FDJ-Suez), Rebecca Koerner (Uno-X Mobility), and Liv-AlUla-Jayco DS Shawn Clarke.

Giro stage 5, crosswinds? We'll take it

Escape Collective — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 15:15:35 -0600

Abby is joined by Cosmo Catalano of the How The Race Was Won podcast and Loren to talk about the fifth stage of the Giro d'Italia Women. What was slated to be a sprint stage was upended by one sector of crosswinds where some of the GC favourites got to jump on some of the climbers and the favourite from the stage still managed to take it. With audio diaries from Lieke Nooijen (Visma-Lease a Bike), Becky Storrie (PicNic PostNL), Mirre Knaven (EF Edcuation-Oatly), Alice Towers (Canyon-SRAM zondacrypto) and Josie Talbot (Liv AlUla Jayco).

Giro stage 4, a Giant win

Escape Collective — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 15:03:39 -0600

What. A. Stage! Abby and Georgie chat that climb that finished off the fourth stage of the Giro d'Italia. The pink jersey is on the back of a GC favourite but the race is far from won. With audio diaries from Sarah Gigante (AG Insurance-Soudal), Lea Curinier (FDJ-Suez), Amanda Spratt (Lidl-Trek), and Brodie Chapman (UAE Team ADQ).

Giro stage 3, crash, crash, boom

Escape Collective — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 13:51:31 -0600

In today's episode, Cosmo Catalano of the How The Race Was Won podcast joins Abby to talk about stage 3. A late-stage crash drastically impacted the outcome of the race ... but did it really? With audio diaries from Mirre Knaven (EF Education-Oatly), Alice Towers (Canyon-SRAM zondacrypto), Becky Storrie (PicNic PostNL), Josie Talbot (Liv AlUla Jayco), and Lieke Nooijen (Visma-Lease a Bike).

Giro stage 2, never count your chickens

Escape Collective — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 14:21:02 -0600

After the second stage of the Giro d'Italia Women, Loren and Abby talk through the surprising win, the changes in the GC, and what the heck happened to a few GC contenders who lost time. With audio diaries from Brodie Chapman (UAE Team ADQ), Sarah Gigante (AG Insurance-Soudal), Rebecca Koerner (Uno-X Mobility), Lea Curinier (FDJ-Suez), and a special contribution from Liv AlUla Jayco DS Shawn Clarke.

Giro stage 1, who saw that coming?

Escape Collective — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 13:13:56 -0600

Abby and Georgie talk about the opening time trial at the Giro d'Italia Women, where the top four riders are exactly who you'd expect and the GC battle might already be wrapped, much to the surprise of the winner. The good news is the Giro is only getting started. With audio diaries from Brodie Chapman (UAE Team ADQ), Amanda Spratty (Lidl-Trek), Rebecca Koerner (Uno-X Mobility), Lieke Nooijn (Visma-Lease a Bike) and Ana Vitória Magalhães (Movistar).

It's Giro time!

Escape Collective — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 10:29:13 -0600

Today on the podcast, Abby and Georgie talk you through each of the stages in the upcoming Giro d'Italia Women, plus the biggest names to watch and more. Stay tuned for daily episodes with audio diaries from some of our favourite riders and find a full written preview on EscapeCollective.com.

Why are so many pro cyclists getting iliac artery surgery? With Matt de Neef

Escape Collective — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 09:52:54 -0600

With no WorldTour racing this past weekend and a Giro preview podcast coming later this week, I wanted to use this as an opportunity to highlight a fantastic story by Matt de Neef about a topic that has been on the rise in recent years: iliac artery endofibrosis. The written piece can be found here, but for those who prefer to read with their ears, you'll be able to listen to Matt narrating his story on the pod this week.

The UCI needs to do better

Escape Collective — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 11:22:36 -0600

After the Great Handlebar Fiasco last week, riders (and the hosts of this podcast, Abby, Georgie, Loren, and Gracie) were not pleased about the lack of safety at the new Copenhagen Sprint WWT event.

Handlebars, Tour de Suisse, and a new date for the Giro

Escape Collective — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 10:53:51 -0600

It's a full house this week as Abby, Loren, Georgie and Gracie discuss everything that went down at Tour de Suisse: Marlen Reusser's meteoric rise, Demi Vollering's biggest weakness, the second-best climbing team in the peloton, and what it all means for the coming weeks. They also talk about the new handlebar rule, with some input from FDJ-Suez's Director of Performance, Lieselot Decroix, as well as the Giro d'Italia Women's new slot on the 2026 calendar.

The Tour of Britain was a true battle for the North

Escape Collective — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 10:17:17 -0600

Forget the battle of Winterfell, the Tour of Britain was the true battle for the North.

This week, the team dive into what was an EPIC edition of the Tour of Britain. The roads were punishing, and the weather was unforgiving. Two forces eventually fought it out for victory on the streets of Glasgow. Gracie, Matt, and Georgie also look to Spain as FDJ-Suez continue to prove their dominance, plus HoweGood roasts the UCI in a minute of madness, and Gracie describes how she gave Georgie a baptism of fire on the MTB.

Introducing Howe Good’s minute of madness

Escape Collective — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 11:33:41 -0600

With a lull in WWT racing last weekend, Georgie, Abby, and Gracie try to answer a few listener questions, including one about fueling in the women's peloton. We also break down the new Tour of Norway and chat Unbound, featuring audio diaries from Cassondra Spring of Liv and Melisa Rollins.

The latest Tour de France contender

Escape Collective — Tue, 27 May 2025 08:49:33 -0600

This week, Anna Shackley, former professional for SD Worx-Protime and current director for Cynisca, joined Loren and Abby to break down the final Spanish stage race - Vuelta a Burgos. The three discuss what they learned from the Spanish block of racing, who came out on top and who will be looking for more in the coming months.

Matt White and Ceratizit departures + Itzulia

Escape Collective — Tue, 20 May 2025 14:47:03 -0600

Abby, Gracie and Georgie chatted this week about Matt White's dismissal from the GreenEdge team, Ceratizit ending their sponsorship of a WorldTour team, Itzulia Women and Vuelta a Burgos (aka the first WWT ITT of the year).

No Spanish holiday

Escape Collective — Tue, 13 May 2025 11:37:58 -0600

It’s time for the Grand Tours and the team kicks off its analysis with the Vuelta Feminina and special guest Julie Leth. What used to be a lovely, sunny race in Spain was anything but with the women showcasing some enthralling racing.

Who impressed? Were there any controversial tactics? What riders have the most work before the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift?

Well, that's one way to start a Grand Tour

Escape Collective — Tue, 06 May 2025 06:07:02 -0600

Gracie, Loren and Abby discuss all things La Vuelta Femenina on this week's Wheel Talk podcast. They also reflect on Lotte Kopecky's comments regarding her winter training and the media's role in critiquing athletic performances.

Two worthy winners to close out the Spring

Escape Collective — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 10:40:14 -0600

It's all hands on deck this week to discuss La Flèche Wallonne and Liège-Bastogne-Liège. Gracie, Loren, Georgie, and Abby gather to break down the final two races of the Spring, who came out on top and who has some catching up to do before the upcoming stage races.

The podium ceremony at the Amstel Gold Race was the real winner

Escape Collective — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 13:00:01 -0600

This week on the Wheel Talk Podcast, Abby, Gracie, and Georgie break down the Brabantse Pijl and the Amstel Gold Race (including that podium ceremony) and look ahead to the final two one-day events of the spring: La Flèche Wallonne and Liège-Bastogne-Liège.

SD Worx-Protime up to their old tricks at Paris-Roubaix Femmes

Escape Collective — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 09:15:32 -0600

Wowza, what a race! The greatest comeback in women's road cycling continues to give while top favourites miss the top step and lack of a definitive plan keeps the best team from taking home another Paris Roubaix Femmes avec Zwift cobblestone.

2025 tactics continue to baffle

Escape Collective — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 09:55:54 -0600

It cycling's Holy Week and Abby, Gracie, and Georgie have a lot to say about concussions, Lotte Kopecky, Lidl-Trek, and more. They also look ahead to Paris Roubaix Femmes where the world champion is yet again the top favorite to claim the crown.

That's a wrap on the Sprinters Classics

Escape Collective — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 08:45:07 -0600

This week's podcast features the full team of Abby, Loren, Gracie, and Georgie, who discuss Gent Wevelgem and Classic Brugge-De Panne and preview Dwars door Vlaanderen and the Tour of Flanders.

The "world championships of sprinting" was windless this year, but that didn't stop one youngster from forging ahead alone (for a long time) before the sprinter's teams eventually brought her back. Meanwhile, one rider attempted to prove she was unbeatable, but perhaps there is a way around her. And the biggest race of the spring is coming on the weekend, but can anyone dethrone SD Worx-Protime?

Bad news for the peloton - SD Worx-Protime is dialed

Escape Collective — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 11:32:33 -0600

Abby, Gracie and Loren have a lot to say this week about Sanremo Women. They dive into the tactics, how the race could have been won, and if it really needs to be longer. After, they look ahead to the two races on tap this week; Classic Brugge-De Panne and Gent Wevelgem. A full preview for those can be found in this week's Wheel Talk Newsletter.

For more on Sanremo Women check out Matt's piece on EscapeCollective.com

Trofeo Alfredo Binda delivered quite the show

Escape Collective — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 10:23:50 -0600

This week the team gets together to discuss Trofeo Alfredo Binda. Almost all the best riders in the sport showed up to race in Cittiglio, but a flurry of attacks couldn't stop a top quick woman from taking the day. The race hinted at what's to come next weekend at Sanremo Women, the first for the women's peloton in 20 years.

The comeback trail continues on the white roads of Tuscany

Escape Collective — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 12:14:14 -0600

This week Abby, Gracie, Loren and Georgie break down Strade Bianche. From FDJ-Suez's dream day to the conditions that took most of the peloton out of contention to the battle we've all been waiting for continues to heat up, there's a lot to say as the WorldTour season continues. Coming up next: Trofeo Alfredo Binda.

Bonus! Gretchen Powers checks in from the Cross Country skiing World Championships in Trondheim, Norway.

New peloton dynamics rock opening weekend

Escape Collective — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 10:41:03 -0700

The peloton opened up Classics season with Omloop Het Nieuwsblad on Saturday and Omloop van het Hageland on Sunday, but the opening race left many pondering the new dynamics of the peloton, and how much impact offseason transfers (both in the peloton and in the cars) had on the race tactics.

Then, on Sunday, Anna van der Breggen had us feeling like we'd hopped in a time machine. With Strade Bianche up next, the question is how much impact will Omloop Het Nieuwsblad have on the season, and can teams get their **** together before the next WorldTour one day?

Drafting teams for 2025

Escape Collective — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 13:05:36 -0700

This week on the Wheel Talk Podcast, we assemble an A+ list of personalities to partake in the second edition of the Wheel Talk Draft. Prepare to yell into the sky when your favourite riders get picked, or don't, and let ten months of smack talk begin.

Is the sequel better than the original?

Escape Collective — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 10:58:56 -0700

This week the team looks to Valenciana. A small race in Spain? No chance. Anna van der Breggen is back, and with a vengeance. Could Demi Vollering’s top step be in danger this season? The crew discuss what Van der Breggen's form shows, how a happy head leads to a fast Marlen Reusser, and how Trek finally opened their account with Elisa Balsamo taking two stages. With the best time of the year (the Classics) just a few weeks away, we also breakdown the start list for the Omloop Het Niewsblad and tag our riders to watch for the cobbled block of racing.

Could UAE Team ADQ be the new powerhouse of the WWT?

Escape Collective — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 10:50:51 -0700

This week, the team takes you through the four stages at the Women’s UAE Tour. We discuss a world class sprinter continuing her streak, unmatched race craft from a legend of the peloton, and underwhelming performances from those we’d expect to finish higher on the results sheet. What does this race signify for the season? Join the Wheel Talk crew as we break it all down.

Obsessions: Loren - Super Bowl ads, Gracie - We Are the Stars by Gina Chick, Georgie - the Imperfects and the Minefield podcasts.

Aussie summer starts with a pop, ends with a fizzle

Escape Collective — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 01:06:09 -0700

Molly Weaver's journey from WorldTour to Ultra

Escape Collective — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 12:51:49 -0700

For the week between Tour Down Under and Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race, we return to our "conversation series." Loren sat down with old friend Molly Weaver, former rider for Team Sunweb (now Picnic PostNL) turned Ultra racer. They two discuss the issue of power to weight, how the demand to lose weight ended Molly's career, and Molly's plans for 2025: On the Edge, Molly's British Coastline World Record Attempt.

Molly's written work from her time as a professional road cyclist can be found here.

Miscalculations and early season tactics rule Tour Down Under

Escape Collective — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 16:31:44 -0700

This week's episode is a special one. Matt de Neef takes control of the mic, along with Gracie Elvin and Georgie Howe, for an on-the-ground breakdown of Tour Down Under. The three talk about everything from the stage 1 non-chase to double Willunga Hill chaos to what Chloe Dygert can accomplish in 2025.

The vibes at Aussie Road Nats were fair dinkum

Escape Collective — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 13:08:24 -0700

Georgie Howe joined Gracie and Abby to break down all the action from Aussie Road Nats and preview the upcoming Tour Down Under. For a full written preview ahead of TDU check out the Wheel Talk Newsletter at Escape Collective.

Obsessions: Georgie – being home in Melbourne with friends and family, and Zero 7, Gracie – swimming!, Abby – The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon.

Hometown hero to Olympian

Escape Collective — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 00:10:40 -0700

For our first episode of the new year, and with Australian National Championships in mind, Gracie Elvin sat down with Lidl-Trek super-domestique Lauretta Hanson to talk about her experience as a domestique in the WorldTour, her journey to the Paris Olympics and being a hometown hero.

Aussie Nats kicks off with U23 and Junior time trials on January 8th, elite time trials the following day and road races over the weekend with the women racing on Sunday the 12th.

Was 2024 the best year for women's cycling to date?

Escape Collective — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 19:44:51 -0700

Loren, Gracie, and Abby are back this week for the last episode of the year. We chat about Demi Vollering joining FDJ-Suez, what that means for the French team and how they might divide leadership between the Dutchwoman, Evita Muzic, and Juliette Labous. We also reflect on our favorite moments of the season including Grace Brown’s Olympic and World Championship success, the Olympics in general, and of course Kasia Niewiadoma’s Tour victory.

Thanks so much for listening! This year has been insane, and we’re so happy to have helped guide you through it. We will be back on January 7th with another Conversation episode (with Lauretta Hanson and Gracie) before we dive into the Aussie Summer of Racing with the National Championships and Tour Down Under. There is a lot to look forward to in 2025!

Sponsorship within women's cycling

Escape Collective — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 14:12:48 -0700

This week Loren Rowney caught up with Shimano's Road Marketing Manager Alexa Cunningham to chat about sponsorship on the women's side of the sport, from grassroots to WorldTour, and how Alexa found herself in Valkenburg working for one of the biggest brands in cycling.

Alexa's obsessions: The Resident on Netflix and Liv's short film about Bonnie.

How good is Georgie Howe

Escape Collective — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 10:35:36 -0700

This week Loren and Abby sat down with Georgie Howe, former rower turned professional cyclist for Liv-AlUla-Jayco. Howe found cycling during the pandemic and her rise in the sport was rapid. That rise came with its pluses and minuses, and after a few wonderful years, Howe is leaving the professional peloton behind in 2025 ... for now. But she's not keen to hang up the bike just yet!

More information about the study Georgie mentioned from the 2023 Tour de France Femmes can be found here.

Matt de Neef also wrote a story about Georgie's rapid rise in cycling here.

It takes a village to build a rider

Escape Collective — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 12:39:14 -0700

This week on Wheel Talk, Abby chatted with Anna Henderson about her silver medal in the Time Trial at the Paris Olympics, the emotional come-down after she overachieved her goal, her switch to Lidl-Trek, and more.

Grace Brown and her dream season

Escape Collective — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 14:55:00 -0700

This week Matt de Neef called up Grace Brown to chat about her career up to this year, her dream 2024 season that included Olympic Gold and a World title, and what she has planned for the future. Matt's written piece on the conversation can be found on Escape Collective here.

An unconventional path to the WorldTour

Escape Collective — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 09:21:15 -0700

This week Abby called up Geerike Schreurs (aka Gee) to chat about her move from racer to soigneur to gravel pro to a WorldTour contract with SD Worx-Protime in 2025.

From the river to the road with Elise Chabbey

Escape Collective — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 09:26:56 -0700

This week Abby chatted with Elise Chabbey before the end of her up-and-down season about her transition from kayaking to road cycling, her time with Canyon-SRAM and her move to FDJ-Suez in 2025.

Let’s talk women’s cycling with Tobin Heath

Escape Collective — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 11:06:10 -0600

This week we kick off our off-season interview series with none other than football/soccer legend Tobin Heath. Tobin is a new convert to cycling but it didn’t take long for her to get hooked. We talk all things women’s cycling and sport, about her time at the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift and more.

How do we make people care about the Tour of Chongming Island?

Escape Collective — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 11:16:10 -0600

Abby, Gracie and Loren get together for a final group podcast for a while to wrap up the final races of the season and chat the latest transfers. They also talk about the placement of Tour of Chongming Island and Tour of Guangxi in the calendar and if an earlier slot in the year would impact public interest in the races.

Next week Abby and Matilda Price chat with Tobin Heath about women’s sports and her discovery of cycling. You won’t want to miss it!

Obsessions: Abby - Fall, Loren - Harry has his final treatment this week!, Gracie - Agatha All Along

Sprinting for seconds

Escape Collective — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 09:19:57 -0600

This week on the podcast, Loren, Gracie, and Abby talked about the Simac Ladies Tour, Cecilie Uttrup Ludwig's move to Canyon-SRAM, and the lack of announcement around Demi Vollering’s 2025 team.

Obsessions: Abby - Abbott Elementary, Gracie - Shōgun, Loren - Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult

The GOAT strikes again

Escape Collective — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 15:18:12 -0600

This week on the podcast Gracie, Abby and Loren chat about the latest in transfer news, the Gravel World Championships, the 2025 calendar, and the future of bike racing in Australia.

Obsessions: Abby - Nobody Wants This, Gracie - Chappell Roan’s The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, Loren - A Touch More with Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe

Surprise! Cycling is actually a team sport

Escape Collective — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 11:03:33 -0600

Abby, Matt de Neef and Matilda Raynolds break down the women’s Elite World Championship road race. The course was harder than expected, combined with horrendous weather, Saturday gave us quite the race. Very few riders could walk away claiming they had a good day, one of them was the winner, and a whole team proved that strength means nothing if you can’t work together.

History made in Zurich

Escape Collective — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 09:47:03 -0600

This week on the podcast Abby, Loren and Gracie talked about the World Championships time trial on Sunday, some amazing performances there (and one in particular). They also preview the road race, with a little input from none other than Elise Chabbey who just announced she will be moving teams for next season.

Dutch sprinters shine at Euros

Escape Collective — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 10:41:48 -0600

This week Abby, Loren and Gracie chat about the European championships with some impressive wins in both the time trial and road races. They also dive a bit into some more transfers and extensions announced last week and look ahead to the World Championship time trial.

Obsessions: Abby - Gilmore Girls, Loren - Her bike trailer, Gracie - Truth Be Told.

SD Worx-Protime is ready for 2025

Escape Collective — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 10:21:37 -0600

Despite having no new signings (yet) SD Worx-Protime doesn’t look like they will be any less dominant next season, thanks to their world champion.

Abby, Tilda and Gracie break down Tour de Romandie plus touch on how teams are shaping up for 2025.

Obsessions: Abby - The Woodhalls, Tilda - Maggie Rogers, Gracie - Zwift training plans (specifically the beginner build up).

Transfers, Fenix-Deceuninck, and more

Escape Collective — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 09:11:23 -0600

This week we chatted a bit about our days in the peloton and answered some listener questions, plus touched on the Paralympics (Meg Fisher’s guide has more info on the classifications).

We’re still processing the Tour

Escape Collective — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 10:26:53 -0600

Gracie Elvin and Matt de Neef are back this week with Abby and Loren to talk Classic Lorient Agglomération. Plus, final takes on the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift! We’re still not over it.

Next week we will try to tackle some listener questions. Submit yours to the Escape Collective Discord (Wheel Talk channel) or send in your own audio diary here!

Obsessions: Loren - her kids, Gracie - her postpartum body, Abby - cooking, specifically cheesy creamed corn, Matt - Ted Lasso

Tour Daily: History is made on Alpe d’Huez

Escape Collective — Sun, 18 Aug 2024 19:13:02 -0600

It’s going to take Abby, Loren and Tilda quite some time to process what they watched on Sunday, the final day of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. History was made, and there’s far too much to talk about. With audio diaries from Sarah Gigante (AG Insurance-Soudal), Niamh Fisher-Black (SD Worx-Protime), Amanda Spratt (Lidl-Trek) and Lea Curinier (FDJ-Suez).

Tour Daily: A polka-dot kind of day

Escape Collective — Sat, 17 Aug 2024 19:12:24 -0600

The penultimate stage brought some fireworks, with a new winner and a whole lot to talk about before stage 8 on Sunday. Loren, Tilda and Abby break it all down, with audio diaries from Sarah Gigante (AG Insurance-Soudal), Niamh Fisher-Black (SD Worx-Protime), and Noemi Rüegg (EF-Oatly-Cannondale).

Tour Daily: Vive la France!

Escape Collective — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 16:28:23 -0600

A historic win, and emotional win, and one we all should have seen coming. Loren, Tilda and Abby are here to talk about it. Plus audio diaries from Emma Norsgaard (Movistar), Sarah Gigante (AG Insurance-Soudal), Lea Curinier (FDJ-Suez) and Quinty Ton (Liv AlUla Jayco).

Tour Daily: Definitely not a sprint!

Escape Collective — Thu, 15 Aug 2024 15:23:31 -0600

It was a crazy day at the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift! Loren, Abby and Tilda try to make sense of it. Loren returned to the peloton for the day, on the back of a motorbike. And audio diaries from Noemi Rüegg (EF-Oatly-Cannondale), Lea Curinier (FDJ-Suez), Amanda Spratt (Lidl-Trek) and Niamh Fisher-Black (SD Worx-Protime).

Tour Daily: Far from over with France on the horizon

Escape Collective — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 15:14:45 -0600

The Classics riders got a taste of their terrain in a Grand Tour today, with an Amstel Gold Race/Liege-Bastogne-Liege combo. Loren caught up with Georgie Howe at the finish and the two chatted the race so far and the race to come. Plus audio diaries from Amanda Spratt (Lidl-Trek) and Sarah Gigante (AG Insurance-Soudal).

Tour Daily: The dreaded Double Day

Escape Collective — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 15:50:52 -0600

Abby, Loren, and Tilda had a long day, but not as long as the team staff. Two stages in one day, two winners and a whole lot of drama. With audio diaries from Quinty Ton (Liv AlUla Jayco), Noemi Rüegg (EF-Oatly-Cannondale) and Lea Curinier (FDJ-Suez).

Tour Daily: Things are really heating up in Rotterdam

Escape Collective — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:10:33 -0600

Abby, Tilda and Loren are on the ground in Rotterdam for the Grand Depart of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. All the fastest Dutch women wanted the first stage victory, but only one rider could pull on the first yellow jersey. The stage was not without some controversy, some ice cream needed and some of that first stage hype.

With audio diaries from Emma Norsgaard (Movistar), Quinty Ton (Liv AlUla Jayco), and Léa Curinier (FDJ-Suez).

Tour Daily: There's a lot to look forward to before the third Tour de France Femmes

Escape Collective — Sun, 11 Aug 2024 09:04:06 -0600

Abby, Tilda and Loren are on the ground in Rotterdam gearing up for the Grand Depart of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. Starting Monday, August 12th the top women in professional cycling will kick off the third edition of the Tour de France Femmes, and we'll be bringing you daily episodes on the ground all week long, with audio diaries from riders in the race.

Before the start, we preview the stages to come, who we are looking at the feature in each stage and who can beat Demi Vollering on Alpe d'Huez.

Paris put on quite a show

Escape Collective — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 10:37:52 -0600

Abby, Loren and Gracie break down the major talking points from the Olympic road race. Some teams threw everything they had at the race, were in the perfect position and still walked away with nothing while some were poorly placed when it counted but still managed to pull off a podium.

Obsession (everyone): Ilona Maher. Always.

Dreams really do come true

Escape Collective — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 10:41:43 -0600

Gracie, Loren, and Abby spend most of this week’s episode praising the winner of the Olympic time trial, among other amazing women who raced in Paris on Thursday. They look ahead to what is expected to be a very good road race on Sunday and discuss what else they are loving about the Games.

If not July, when?

Escape Collective — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 08:45:04 -0600

Loren, Tilda and Abby are joined by Gracie (finally!) to chat about the Giro d’Italia’s placement on the calendar, it’s overlap with the men’s Tour and the lack of coverage. Plus what Lotte Kopecky’s new skills mean for SD Worx-Protime’s future and what Elisa Longo Borghini leaving Lidl-Trek will mean for the American team and the team she’s joining.

Obsessions: Abby - the dress worn by Biniam Girmay’s wife at the Tour podium, Gracie - her newborn son Noah!, Tilda - America’s Sweethearts, Loren - the weather in Belgium right now

Giro Minisode stage 8: One for the history books

Escape Collective — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 09:43:43 -0600

Abby and Loren can barely wrap their minds around the final stage of the Giro d’Italia Women. A historic stage winner and a dream come true podium for the three women on it. With an audio diary from MVP of the day Niamh Fisher-Black of SD Worx-Protime.

Giro Minisode stage 7: That was a doozy

Escape Collective — Sat, 13 Jul 2024 14:49:51 -0600

Loren and Abby are back to try to make sense of the seventh stage of the Giro d’Italia Women. The Queen stage left us with more questions than answers, but also in tears as a podcast favorite claimed a massive result. With audio diaries from Letizia Borghesi (EF-Oatly-Cannondale), Mareille Meijering (Movistar), Lizzie Deignan (Lidl-Trek) and Niamh Fisher-Black (SD Worx-Protime).

Giro Minisode stage 6: How many degrees?!?!?!

Escape Collective — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 15:13:00 -0600

Loren is back with Abby to talk about the sixth stage of the Giro d’Italia Women. And what a finish it was! With audio diaries from Letizia Borghesi (EF-Oatly-Cannondale) and Grace Brown (FDJ-Suez).

Giro Minisode stage 5: Three seconds

Escape Collective — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 15:30:08 -0600

Rebecca Charlton is back to talk to Abby about the fifth stage of the Giro d’Italia. The final day before the GC really takes off, the fifth stage still saw a gap between favorites get smaller.

With audio diaries from Lizzie Deignan (Lidl-Trek), Josie Nelson (DSM-Firmenich PostNL), Mareille Meijering (Movistar), Urška Žigart (Liv AlUla Jayco), and Maike van der Duin (Canyon-SRAM).

Giro Minisode stage 4: Things are heating up

Escape Collective — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 14:07:41 -0600

Tilda Price joins Abby today to talk about the fourth stage of the Giro d’Italia Women. Two races today, a race for the stage and a race for seconds. With audio diaries from Letizia Borghesi (EF-Oatly-Cannondale), Grace Brown (FDJ-Suez), and Josie Nelson (DSM-Firmenich PostNL).

Giro Minisode stage 3: Timing is everything

Escape Collective — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 13:53:47 -0600

Today Abby is joined by Rebecca Charlton, fresh out of the commentary booth, to talk about the third stage of the Giro d’Italia. The first mountain top stage of the race, a fan favorite climber took the stage and the GC got a little bit more interesting...

With audio diaries from stage winner (!!) Niamh Fisher-Black (SD Worx-Protime), Letizia Borghesi (EF-Oatly-Cannondale), and Mareille Meijering (Movistar).

Giro Minisode stage 2: Playing it cool and staying cool

Escape Collective — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 15:54:03 -0600

Abby and Heidi Franz get together to break down the second stage of the Giro d’Italia Women, with audio diaries from Lizzie Deignan (Lidl-Trek), Alice Towers (Canyon-SRAM), Urska Zigart (Liv AlUla Jayco), and Grace Brown (FDJ-Suez).

Giro Minisode stage 1: A dream come true, in pink

Escape Collective — Sun, 07 Jul 2024 15:38:35 -0600

Abby and Loren discuss the first stage of the Giro d’Italia Women. The 14.6 km time trial had some surprises, and some time lost already for a few GC hopefuls.

The episode features audio diaries from Lizzie Deignan (Lidl-Trek), Letizia Borghesi (EF-Oatly-Cannondale), and Urska Zigart (Liv AlUla Jayco).

Bonus ep: The rapid rise of Kim Cadzow

Escape Collective — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 09:24:25 -0600

A week before the start of the Giro d’Italia Abby called up EF Education-Oatly-Cannondale’s Kim Cadzow to chat about her Tour de Suisse, her first year with Jumbo-Visma and how she feels about Lord of the Rings (being from New Zealand).

Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.

A stage-by-stage Giro preview with Sarah Gigante

Escape Collective — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 08:32:27 -0600

Sarah Gigante joins Abby and Tilda Price to breakdown each stage of the Giro d’Italia. The race starts with an individual time trial on Sunday and ends with three challenging climbing stages, one of which includes two ascents of the Blockhaus climb.

Return of the ... Van der Breggen

Escape Collective — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 09:11:19 -0600

This is a very special week because this week we have TILDA PRICE!!!! back on the podcast! Tilda joined Loren and I to chat about National Championships upsets, Van der Breggen’s return, and more.

Obsessions: Tilda - ice cream!, Abby - Lord of the Rings (movies), Loren - is still obsessed with her upcoming bike-packing trip with IRIS and Kamoot.

Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.

Also, we'd love to get your feedback on this show and our other shows. Share your thoughts at escapecollective.com/podcast-survey.

The Tour de Suisse was a good primer for the Giro

Escape Collective — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 14:20:53 -0600

We’ve got a two-parter for everyone this week. The first is Loren and I breaking down Tour de Suisse, who will look back on the race happy with their form and who will have a lot of questions with only two weeks to go to the Giro. In the second part Matt de Neef’s calls up Ruby Roseman-Gannon.

Obsessions: Loren – Her new gravel bike!, Abby – Our Tour de France Femmes coverage plans!

And as we noted in the episode, starting next week Wheel Talk will only be available on its own podcast feed. If you’re not subscribed, now is the time to do it! This will help us expand our content and offer you more bonus episodes in the future plus we have our own space, hooray!

Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.

Also, we'd love to get your feedback on this show and our other shows. Share your thoughts at escapecollective.com/podcast-survey.

Three against one, lost it at the line

Escape Collective — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 09:13:56 -0600

This week Abby is joined by Matilda Raynolds and a very special guest - Shawn Clarke, DS for Liv AlUla Jayco. They chat Tour of Britain, how teams decide which DS goes to which race, the transfer market, and more.

Obsessions: Abby - Fall Guy, Shawn - Tour de Gatineau and Bike Race Ottawa, Tils - Timeshifter app

Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.

Also, we'd love to get your feedback on this show and our other shows. Share your thoughts at escapecollective.com/podcast-survey.

A mid-season Q&A

Escape Collective — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 11:37:22 -0600

This week Abby, Matt and Gracie answer listener questions about the Olympic road race course, the season so far, which team they would want to be on and more.

Obsessions: Abby - Hook, Matt - Three Body Problem, Gracie - Slow Horses *and other TV shows

Hasta la próxima, España

Escape Collective — Tue, 21 May 2024 10:38:40 -0600

This week Abby and Loren were joined by Matilda ‘Tils’ Raynolds to talk about the Vuelta a Burgos, Demi Vollering, and sprint finish safety. They also dove into a few of the lesser one-day events and tried to make sense of USA Cycling’s Olympic team.

Obsessions: Abby - Bridgerton Season 3, Loren - her bike, Tils - Racing Unbound!

Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.

Statistics are fun!

Escape Collective — Tue, 14 May 2024 10:14:11 -0600

This week Abby, Loren and Matt de Neef marvel over SD Worx-Protime’s Itzulia statistics, their approach to the race, and why the courses were so good. Plus, rumours!

Obsessions: Abby - TTPD Live (bonus: Album Files podcast) live, Matt - Dune, Loren - the weather

After La Vuelta, it’s clear women’s cycling is in a golden age

Escape Collective — Tue, 07 May 2024 10:30:35 -0600

Loren, Gracie and Abby have a lot to say about this year’s La Vuelta España Femenina. They discuss the final two stages, but also general takeaway from a week of racing in Spain and what it could mean for the rest of the season.

The episode includes audio diaries from Maike van der Duin of Canyon-SRAM, Brodie Chapman of Lidl-Trek, Kim Cadzow of EF Education-Cannondale, Alessia Vigilia of FDJ-Suez, and Georgia Baker of Liv AlUla Jayco.

Obsessions this week: Abby - The Idea of You on Amazon Prime, Loren - Low Tox Life, Gracie - The Giro! (catch her on the first 8 stages of SBS commentary).

Special: La Vuelta keeps getting better and better

Escape Collective — Fri, 03 May 2024 18:02:40 -0600

On this special episode of the Wheel Talk podcast, Abby calls up Matt de Neef to briefly discuss stages 5 and 6 of La Vuelta España Femenina, with audio diaries from Alessia Vigilia (FDJ-Suez), Kim Cadzow (EF Education-Cannondale), Georgia Baker (Liv AlUla Jayco) and Elynor Backstedt (Lidl-Trek).

Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/join to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.

What a start to La Vuelta

Escape Collective — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 22:22:11 -0600

In this two part-episode Loren, Gracie and Abby chat about the opening TTT of La Vuelta and what it might mean for the stages coming up.

In the second segment, Abby and Loren check back in after the second stage with some audio diaries from riders on the ground including Maike van der Duin (Canyon-SRAM), Alessia Vigilia (FDJ-Suez), Georgia Baker (Liv AlUla Jayco) and Brodie Chapman (Lidl-Trek).

Flèche and LBL! How Good!

Escape Collective — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 11:26:01 -0600

Gracie and Abby are joined this week by Rebecca Charlton to break down La Flèche Wallonne and Liège-Bastogne-Liège and lament the end of the Spring season. But don’t despair! La Vuelta España Femenina kicks off on Sunday and Escape Collective is running a fantasy competition just for you! One more reason to text your cycling group chat, subscribe to the Wheel Talk Newsletter and keep an eye on your inbox to sign up.

Wheel Talk: Wait, what just happened at the Amstel Gold Race?

Escape Collective — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 12:15:52 -0600

Gracie, Loren, and Abby call in back up in the form of Matt de Neef to try and figure out what exactly happened on Sunday at the Amstel Gold Race. The shortened race impacted some teams more than others, and a top rider learned a tough lesson.

We can’t get enough of Paris-Roubaix Femmes

Escape Collective — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 08:09:43 -0600

Loren is back in the studio this time with Abby and Gracie to take a deeper dive into the racing at Paris-Roubaix Femmes avec Zwift and look ahead to the upcoming Ardennes.

From the Roubaix Velodrome

Escape Collective — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 13:05:20 -0600

Loren Rowney, Matt de Neef, and special guests bring you all the action from the infield at the Roubaix Velodrome, as the fourth edition of Paris-Roubaix Femmes avec Zwift comes to a thrilling close.

Special: Alison Jackson and the Making of a Monument

Escape Collective — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 03:02:25 -0600

One year after her historic win at Paris-Roubaix Femmes avec Zwift Alison Jackson sits down with Abby Mickey to relive the day and the months leading up to her victory. The two discuss the plan going into the race, and how Jackson manifested her own destiny prior to winning the Hell of the North. Find the full written piece on EscapeCollective.com.

Bring on the emotions!

Escape Collective — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 10:51:22 -0600

This week on the podcast Gracie, Loren and Abby break down one of the best races of the year the Tour of Flanders and talk about how Dwars door Vlaanderen on Wednesday gave us an idea of what was to come on Sunday. They also discuss the dynamic of SD Worx-Protime and Lidl-Trek and how the two are circling each other. And Kasia Niewiadoma. We just love Kasia Niewiadoma.

Milliseconds make the difference

Escape Collective — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 16:06:29 -0600

Another great episode this week with Abby Mickey, Loren Rowney and Gracie Elvin.

They talked about Classic Brugge-De Panne and Gent-Wevelgem, specifically SD Worx-Protime’s tactics and the sprint finish where Lotte Kopecky made the difference for Lorena Wiebes.

In order to really pick apart the sprint finish on Sunday they watched it live while recording. If you’d like to join in you can find the video we watched here.

Attack! Attack! Attack!

Escape Collective — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 12:41:51 -0600

Loren, Gracie, and Abby are back to talk about Trofeo Alfredo Binda over the weekend and look ahead to Brugge-De Panne and Gent-Wevelgem coming up. Plus, if you haven’t seen Miss Americana on Netflix … well, now you’ve got your night planned for you, you’re welcome.

Ronde van Drenthe has a new course, but did it work?

Escape Collective — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 11:27:51 -0600

Loren, Gracie, and Abby sat down this week to break down Ronde van Drenthe, look ahead to what some performances mean for the upcoming Cobbled Classics, the return of Ellen van Dijk, and how Trofeo Alfredo Binda fits into the calendar.

The peloton is onto SD Worx-Protime

Escape Collective — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 12:07:29 -0700

Loren, Gracie, and Abby get together to talk about all the action at Strade Bianche, and the exciting change that will impact Ronde van Drenthe next weekend. Plus, Abby is losing the Draft and is quite stressed about it.

The 2024 Wheel Talk Draft

Escape Collective — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 13:50:35 -0700

In this super chaotic episode, Abby, Gracie and Loren are joined by Matt de Neef and Matilda Raynolds for an NFL-snake-style draft. Who will the first pick be? Who’s already winning by a heck of a lot points? Find out in this episode.

We also chat a bit about an exciting start to the women’s Classics season at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and what it might mean for the season ahead.

Olympics selection season starts now

Escape Collective — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 14:52:42 -0700

Bonus ep: A chat Down Under with Tils and Heidi Franz

Escape Collective — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 02:40:14 -0700

Whilst down in Australia for the Tour Down Under and the Deakin University Road Race, our very own Matilda Raynolds sat down with Heidi Franz, rider for Lifeplus Wahoo, for a chat. They discussed Heidi’s last couple of years in the sport, how cycling should differ from gymnastics, popular Aussie phrases you should know, and much more.

We hope you enjoy this bonus Wheel Talk episode, and Abby, Loren and Gracie will be back later this week to chat about Setmana Valenciana and the upcoming Omloop Het Nieuwsblad.

How do you solve a problem like Kopecky?

Escape Collective — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 11:33:01 -0700

Loren Rowney is back to discuss all the action from the UAE Tour with Gracie and Abby. They try to answer questions like: Will Kopecky’s form impact Vollering’s Classics goals, and what will that mean for SD Worx - Protime as a whole? And is there a cuter couple than Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce (there isn’t)?

Cyclocross is the best sport in the world according to Helen Wyman

Escape Collective — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 16:40:24 -0700

Helen Wyman joined Abby for this fantastic episode of the Wheel Talk Podcast. The two talk about all the action from the U23 and Elite races at the World Championships over the weekend, answer listener questions about families in Cyclocross, Lucinda Brand, and more. Plus, lots of laughter. This was such a good episode we’ve even got a longer version exclusively for the members of Escape Collective.

See ya next year, Australia!

Escape Collective — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 13:14:53 -0700

This week on the Wheel Talk Podcast, Tils (Matilda Raynolds) is back to chat with Gracie and Abby about the Deakin University Road Race.

Another stop Down Under

Escape Collective — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 12:20:40 -0700

Matilda Raynolds, or Tils as she’s known to the members of the Wheel Talk Podcast Discord group (available to members of Escape Collective), joins Gracie and Abby on the podcast this week with some insider information on the Tour Down Under and some thoughts on the upcoming Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race.

And, as promised, here is a link to G Flips's cover of Cruel Summer by Taylor Swift.

Women's Tour Down Under Stage 3: Emotions were high atop Willunga

Escape Collective — Sun, 14 Jan 2024 06:58:42 -0700

Dave Rome is back on hosting duties with Matt de Neef and Gracie Elvin to chat about stages 2 and 3 of the women's Tour Down Under. Both days delivered potentially unsurprising but incredibly exciting victories, with some teams having to shift focus while others held firm to the plan.

In its second year as a WorldTour event the Tour Down Under delivered a race worth watching, but will they add stages in the future? And what can we take away from TDU into the rest of the season?

Tour Down Under Stage 1: Gorge road disrupts expectations

Escape Collective — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 06:43:32 -0700

Dave Rome takes Abby's place leading the podcast on the ground in Adelaide to talk about the first stage of the women's Tour Down Under. Our favourite tech expert is joined by former professional Gracie Elvin and Escape Collective's managing editor Matt de Neef.

The team discusses the event's growing prestige, why the Europeans are showing up to win, how the Aussies can compete, and how the new team kits look in person.

Dream teams and Aussie pressure

Escape Collective — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 21:05:34 -0700

Abby, Gracie, and Loren are back to talk about Tour Down Under, what Willunga means for the race, our dream teams, and more. Have questions for us? Let us know on the Escape Collective discord!

Also, check out the Wheel Talk Newsletter for a stage-by-stage preview ahead of the TDU.

Wait, do we have high hopes for the 2024 Giro?

Escape Collective — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 12:21:05 -0700

For our final episode of the year, Gracie, Loren and I chat the recent Giro d’Italia Women route announcement, development pathways from Australia for women, the UCI’s weird wildcard decision, and more. Plus we answer a handful of your questions.

Stay tuned for an exclusive members only episode with the three of us coming next week.

Finding a new home at Movistar with Floortje Mackaij

Escape Collective — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 12:18:35 -0700

On this week's Members Only Escape Collective Wheel Talk Podcast (phew), Abby chats with Floorje Mackaij about moving from DSM to Movistar after 10 years with the same team, alongside her close friend Liane Lippert, and riding for Annemiek van Vleuten, plus Bella, her adorable dog who has become a honorary member of her Spanish team.

Getting EF Education-Cannondale off the ground

Escape Collective — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 00:54:27 -0700

With 2024 just around the corner Abby chatted with EF Education-Cannondale’s new General Manager Esra Tromp about the process of building a team from scratch, the hurdles the team might come against in the new year, and more.

End of Year Awards

Escape Collective — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 12:33:49 -0600

Abby, Loren, Matt, and Gracie wrap up the season by handing out some awards to the best team, best rider, best race finish, and more.

The ups and downs of being a woman in cycling journalism

Escape Collective — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 15:51:24 -0600

This week is a very special episode. Abby sat down with friend of the podcast Rebecca Charlton to chat about cycling through pregnancy, missing the first Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, and the backlash of covering men’s cycling as a woman.

The future of women's cycling is bright!

Escape Collective — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 07:58:49 -0600

This week Abby, Matt and Loren talk about some exciting up-and-coming riders, as well as the dilemma of Lidl-Trek’s five new 18-year-olds, the Tour of Chongming Island, and more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The problem with Jumbo-Visma

Escape Collective — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 01:27:52 -0600

This episode was supposed to be about team captains but got slightly derailed by two topics none of us thought we would have to talk about in 2023; no live coverage of Gravel Worlds and the working conditions at Jumbo-Visma's women's team.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recognizing the best domestiques

Escape Collective — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 04:25:45 -0600

With no WWT racing since the last podcast Gracie took charge of this episode. We spend most of the time discussing the best domestiques in the peloton, plus the different kinds of domestiques and who qualifies into which category.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Good tactics or questionable move?

Escape Collective — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 06:20:12 -0600

Abby, Loren and Gracie break down the European Championship road race and chat about gardening (plus maybe a little about the Kardashians, sorry).

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Canyon-SRAM's redemption arc

Escape Collective — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 07:23:59 -0600

Abby, Loren and Gracie are back to chat about the Tour de Romandie, some transfers, and dolls.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A different type of athlete

Escape Collective — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 07:50:05 -0600

This week Abby, Matt, Loren and Gracie talk about the Simac Ladies Tour and the career and legacy of Annemiek van Vleuten.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Plouay, Tour de l'Avenir Femmes, and Simac Ladies Tour

Escape Collective — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 06:56:28 -0600

Lots of bike racing for Abby, Matt, and Gracie to chat about this week! The one-day GP de Plouay on Saturday, where aggressive tactics led to a reduced bunch sprint with a surprising winner, the young guns got to show off at the first-ever Tour de l'Avenir Femmes, and we've got six stages of racing in the Netherlands and Belgium coming up this week, the final race for Annemiek van Vleuten.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A new G.O.A.T. in the making

Escape Collective — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 07:05:07 -0600

This week Loren, Abby and Matt get together to talk about the Tour of Scandinavia.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transfers, relegation, and women's football

Escape Collective — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 07:44:01 -0600

Abby, Loren and Gracie answer some listener questions and go on some tangents in this latest episode of the Wheel Talk Podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The strongest woman won in Glasgow

Escape Collective — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 12:36:14 -0600

The band is back together! This week Abby, Matt, Loren and Gracie chat about the ITT and road race at the Glasgow World Championships. Buckle up! It was a wild race!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Getting ready for Glasgow

Escape Collective — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 13:56:20 -0600

Abby, Matt and Loren are joined once again by Matilda Raynolds to preview the women's elite and U23 road race at the Glasgow World Championships. For an in-depth preview of the route, Kit Nicholson has you covered here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tour de France Femmes Stage 8: C'est fini

Escape Collective — Sun, 30 Jul 2023 16:58:28 -0600

One final episode from the ground of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift with Abby and Matt (plus a cameo from a familiar voice or two).

Plus, final audio diaries from Lucinda Brand (Lidl-Trek), Vittoria Guazzini (FDJ-Suez), Georgia Williams (EF Education-TIBCO-SVB), Audrey Cordon-Ragot (Human Powered Health), Ella Wyllie (Lifeplus Wahoo), Ashleigh Moolman Pasio (AG Insurance-Soudal Quick-Step), and Jess Allen (Jayco-AlUla).

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tour de France Femmes Stage 7: A day to remember

Escape Collective — Sat, 29 Jul 2023 17:17:56 -0600

Abby and Matt report from atop the Col du Tourmalet, surrounded by fans, while watching the women make history.

Hear audio diaries from Lucinda Brand (Lidl-Trek), Vittoria Guazzini (FDJ-Suez), Sara Poidevin (EF Education-TIBCO-SVB), and Jess Allen (Jayco-AlUla).

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tour de France Femmes Stage 6: A close one

Escape Collective — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 15:29:40 -0600

Abby, Matt and Kate report on the sixth stage of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. It was a particularly exciting finale with a worthy winner. And get ready for stage 7, the famous Col du Tourmalet.

Hear audio diaries from Lucinda Brand (Lidl-Trek), Audrey Cordon-Ragot (Human Powered Health, Vittoria Guazzini (FDJ-Suez), Ashleigh Moolman Pasio (AG Insurance-Soudal Quick-Step), Ella Wyllie (Lifeplus Wahoo), and Jess Allen (Jayco-AlUla).

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tour de France Femmes Stage 5: We need ice socks stat!

Escape Collective — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 15:33:09 -0600

Abby and Matt again are able to rope in Iris Slappendel to chat about the fifth stage of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift! And what a stage it was, with a surprise winner, and some more interesting maneuvers from SD Worx. It's an episode you won't want to miss.

Hear from Lucinda Brand (Lidl-Trek), Ashleigh Moolman Pasio (AG Insurance-Soudal Quick-Step), Veronica Ewers (EF Education-TIBCO-SVB, and Jess Allen (Jayco-AlUla).

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tour de France Femmes Stage 4: What. A. Stage!

Escape Collective — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 15:38:35 -0600

Abby and Matt are back from Rodez to chat about the fourth stage of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. It was quite the day with a lot of interesting attempts from the GC favourites and some dreams come true for the stage winner.

Hear from breakaway champions Lucinda Brand (Lidl-Trek) and Audrey Cordon-Ragot (Human Powered Health, plus from Vittoria Guazzini (FDJ-Suez), Ashleigh Moolman Pasio (AG Insurance-Soudal Quick-Step), Veronica Ewers (EF Education-TIBCO-SVB, and Jess Allen (Jayco-AlUla).

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tour de France Femmes stage 3: Check mate

Escape Collective — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 15:40:35 -0600

Abby, Matt and Kate check in from the ground of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift stage 3. Abby also chatted with Iris Slappendel on the finish line after her day on the moto.

Plus hear from Lucinda Brand (Lidl-Trek), Vittoria Guazzini (FDJ-Suez), Ashleigh Moolman Pasio (AG Insurance-Soudal Quick-Step), Veronica Ewers (EF Education-TIBCO-SVB, Jess Allen (Jayco-AlUla), and Audrey Cordon-Ragot (Human Powered Health.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tour de France Femmes stage 2: A very slippery day

Escape Collective — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 14:53:44 -0600

Abby and Matt are joined on the ground by Kate Wagner fresh off the men's Tour. They talk about a tough day for the women from Clermont-Ferrand to Mauriac, with a fun little climb to finish off the stage.

Tune in for audio diaries from Lucinda Brand (Lidl-Trek), Ella Wyllie (Lifeplus Wahoo), Vittoria Guazzini (FDJ-Suez), Ashleigh Moolman Pasio (AG Insurance-Soudal Quick-Step), Veronica Ewers (EF Education-TIBCO-SVB, Jess Allen (Jayco-AlUla), and Audrey Cordon-Ragot (Human Powered Health.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tour de France Femmes Daily Stage 1: Only the beginning

Escape Collective — Sun, 23 Jul 2023 14:45:49 -0600

Abby and Matt are on the ground in Clermont-Ferrand for the start of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift and they are joined by Iris Slappendel to talk the first stage of the race.

Including audio diaries from inside the peloton with Ashleigh Moolman Pasio, Veronica Ewers, Vittoria Guazzini, Audrey Cordon-Ragot, Ella Wyllie and Jess Allen.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tour de France Femmes preview with Amanda Spratt

Escape Collective — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 12:01:30 -0600

Lidl-Trek's Amanda Spratt joins Abby and Matt to preview the eight stages of the upcoming Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. A written preview can be found here, plus keep an eye on EscapeCollective.com all week for daily previews of each stage.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A very extensive Giro Donne recap

Escape Collective — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 11:59:02 -0600

Strap in Wheel Talk listeners this one is....long. Matt and Loren are back with Abby to chat all the biggest stories from the Giro Donne and they are joined by a special guest and friend of the pod Matilda (Tils) Raynolds.

They talk about this being Annemiek's final Giro, what that means for the future, how the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift has changed the Giro and more.

Hear from Niamh Fisher-Black (SD Worx), Sarah Roy (Cayon//SRAM) and Nina Kessler (Jayco-AlUla) plus some really special audio diaries from Iris Slappendel and Gracie Elvin about Annemiek's Giro Donne journey and being her teammate.

Perhaps listen to this one in two sittings, or on a long ride, but it's definitely not one to miss!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Giro Donne stage 9: Time for some gelato

Escape Collective — Sun, 09 Jul 2023 12:49:14 -0600

The final episode of the Giro Donne ended with a bang. Abby and Hannah are here to chat about it, along with some audio diaries from Nina Kessler (Jayco-AlUla), Sarah Roy (Canyon//SRAM), Lauretta Hanson (Lidl-Trek) (sorry for the audio on this one!) and Veronica Ewers (EF Education-TIBCO-SVB).

The regular Wheel Talk podcast will return soon with a bigger-picture discussion about the Giro and Annemiek's final season. Thank you so much for listening to these daily episodes and to our audio diarists for their time and input!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Giro Donne Stage 8: We're nearing the end now

Escape Collective — Sat, 08 Jul 2023 12:27:09 -0600

It's the penultimate day of the Giro Donne and Abby and Hannah are here to talk about it, along with some thoughts from Sarah Roy (Canyon//SRAM) on stage 7, Nina Kessler (Jayco-AlUla) on the rest day, Lauretta Hanson (Lidl-Trek) before the stage and Veronica Ewers (EF Education-TIBCO-SVB) and Niamh Fisher-Black (SD Worx) on the stage itself.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Giro Rest Day Vibes

Escape Collective — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 09:39:21 -0600

There's not much going on at the Giro Donne today, but Nina Kessler (Jayco-AlUla), Niamh Fisher-Black (SD Worx) and Veronica Ewers still sent in some thoughts. Enjoy!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Giro Donne Stage 7: Every day is a GC day

Escape Collective — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 12:16:16 -0600

Abby and Hannah again with a stage 7 recap of the 2023 Giro Donne. Plus audio diaries from Niamh Fisher-Black (SD Worx), Veronica Ewers (EF Education-TIBCO-SVB), Nina Kessler (Jayco-AlUla), and Lauretta Hanson (Lidl-Trek).

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Giro Donne Stage 6: This. Sport.

Escape Collective — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 11:13:02 -0600

Abby and Hannah are back for another chat about the Giro Donne and what happened in the sixth stage.

Hear from Niamh Fisher-Black (SD Worx), Sarah Roy (Cayon//SRAM), Veronica Ewers (EF Education-TIBCO-SVB), Nina Kessler (Jayco-AlUla) and Lauretta Hanson (Lidl-Trek).

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Giro Donne Stage 5: Queen stage drama

Escape Collective — Tue, 04 Jul 2023 13:09:03 -0600

Abby and Hannah chat about the fifth stage of the Giro Donne, the Queen stage. It was a bonkers day from start to finish with a surprising outcome.

Hear from Lauretta Hanson of Lidl-Trek, Niamh Fisher-Black of SD Worx, and Veronica Ewers of EF Education-TIBCO-SVB.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Giro Donne Stage 4: Take the opportunities whenever you can

Escape Collective — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 12:44:26 -0600

Abby and Hannah are back to chat stage 4 of the Giro Donne. An exciting stage with some familiar, and new, faces.

EF Education-TIBCO-SVB's Veronica Ewers checks in with an audio diary after the stage, as does Lauretta Hanson of Lidl-Trek. Plus hear from Nine Kessler of Jayco-AlUla after the stage and Sarah Roy of Canyon-SRAM after stage 3.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Giro Donne Stage 3: Safety concerns and fast finishes

Escape Collective — Sun, 02 Jul 2023 11:59:26 -0600

Hannah Barnes joins Abby once again to discuss the third stage of the 2023 Giro Donne.

Hear from inside the Lidl-Trek bus with Lauretta Hanson and from after the finish line with EF Education-TIBCO-SVB's Veronica Ewers and Jayco-AlUla's Nina Kessler. Plus a very raw and honest check in from Niamh Fisher-Black of SD Worx.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Giro Donne Stage 2: Giro's gunna Giro

Escape Collective — Sat, 01 Jul 2023 13:50:25 -0600

Abby and Hannah Barnes (Uno-X) get together to chat Giro Donne stage 2, which ended up being a critical day for the general classification. You will also hear from Canyon//SRAM's Sarah Roy, Veronica Ewers of EF Education-TIBCO-SVB, Nina Kessler of Jayco-AlUla and of course Lidl-Trek's Lauretta Hanson.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Giro Donne Stage 1: The real Giro starts tomorrow

Escape Collective — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 10:48:08 -0600

Abby is joined by professional rider for Uno-X Hannah Barnes to chat about stage 1 what was supposed to be stage 1 of the Giro Donne. Torrential rain caused the race to be cancelled, but not before half the field tested their legs, and tyres.

Niamh Fisher-Black (SD Worx), Veronica Ewers (EF Education-TIBCO-SVB), Lauretta Hanson (Lidl-Trek) and Nina Kessler (Jayco-AlUla) phone in to tell us how things were in the lake on the ground.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A very chaotic Giro Donne preview

Escape Collective — Tue, 27 Jun 2023 01:53:57 -0600

This week Abby is joined again by Rebecca Charlton and, for the first time on the Wheel Talk Podcast, the one and only Amy Lauren Jones. The three chat about some of the National Championships over the weekend, especially the storming performance form Pfeiffer Georgi, and preview what's to come in the Giro Donne. For a more detailed route preview check out escapecollective.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gotta love a good time trial

Escape Collective — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 06:43:46 -0600

This week Abby, Matt and Gracie chat about the women's Tour de Suisse and dive into some listener questions about rider safety and unions.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A weekend of controversy in France

Escape Collective — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 02:32:26 -0600

This week we discuss the controversy at CIC-Tour Féminin International des Pyrénées with a special guest, and the DS for Cynisca Cycling, Gillian Ellsay. Matt also chats with Chloe Hosking about her decision to sue the owners of the B&B Hotels team that fell apart prior to the season.

In the episode's second half, we answer a few more of your questions.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mid-season Q&A Part 1

Escape Collective — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 03:20:04 -0600

This week Abby, Loren and Gracie answer some listener questions about whether they can sing or prefer to dance, hot pants, SD Worx dominance, and more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The RideLondon vs. Thüringen problem

Escape Collective — Tue, 30 May 2023 08:25:49 -0600

This week we chat all about the three days of action at RideLondon Classique, a conversation made even better by the presence of Rebecca Charlton! We also talk about the SD Worx clean sweep at LOTTO Thüringen Ladies Tour and the ongoing WorldTour relegation battle.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vuelta a Burgos closes out the Spanish stage race block

Escape Collective — Mon, 22 May 2023 09:36:57 -0600

Abby, Matt and Gracie chat about Vuelta a Burgos and why the race was and wasn't boring. Plus, the upcoming RideLondon Classique promises some exciting sprint stages!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A last minute Itzulia GC shake-up

Escape Collective — Tue, 16 May 2023 08:39:03 -0600

Abby and Loren are joined by retired professional cyclist for SD Worx and Canada Karol-Ann Canuel to discuss Itzulia Women. At the end of the episode, Abby catches up with Kasia Niewiadoma to talk about how her season is going, how the level is changing, and what she's targeting this season.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma Norsgaard feels right at home with Movistar

Escape Collective — Thu, 11 May 2023 16:05:59 -0600

In between racing La Vuelta Femenina and Itzulia Women former Danish national champion Emma Norsgaard sat down with Abby to chat about why she loves the Spanish team, the truth about being teammates with Annemiek van Vleuten, and why she's adapted her strengths as a rider. For more, check out the written feature on escapecollective.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We'll need a minute after La Vuelta

Escape Collective — Mon, 08 May 2023 10:28:56 -0600

Woah. What a stage race that was! Abby, Matt and Gracie get together to recap (almost) everything that happened at La Vuelta Femenina. From Realini's first WorldTour win to Vollering's climbing to why we love the G.O.A.T.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

La Vuelta Femenina Preview with Amanda "Spratty" Spratt

Escape Collective — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 10:38:21 -0600

We are dropping this week's Wheel Talk Podcast episode a little earlier because La Vuelta Femenina by Carrefour.es kicks off on Monday, May 1 with a TTT in Torrevieja. Amanda Spratt of Trek-Segafredo, who will be racing this week in Spain, joins Loren and Abby to talk about the stages and riders to watch at the race.

For a full written piece check out Abby's preview here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Megan Jastrab’s last few years have been a whirlwind

Escape Collective — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 18:25:13 -0600

On this bonus episode of the Wheel Talk Podcast, Abby caught up with up-and-coming American talent Megan Jastrab to discuss her years at Team DSM and her experience racing the team pursuit at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics while working to graduate from college in four years.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An inevitable yet exciting end to the Spring Classics

Escape Collective — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 11:35:42 -0600

Abby, Matt and Gracie break down the final two races of the Spring Classics and Ardennes week. Both La Flèche Wallonne and Liège-Bastogne-Liège had potentially inevitable winners but kept us on the edge of our seats.

Plus, we answer a couple of listener questions and talk about what we've been obsessed with lately (non-cycling related, of course).

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Amstel Gold Race live with Brodie Chapman

Escape Collective — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 12:00:41 -0600

Trek-Segafredo's Brodie Chapman joins Abby, Loren and Matt de Neef to watch the final 27 km of the Amstel Gold Race. They chat about Brodie's return from injury, the SD Worx "problem" and more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paris-Roubaix Femmes had it all

Escape Collective — Sun, 09 Apr 2023 02:46:56 -0600

Paris-Roubaix Femmes avec Zwift had everything. Heartbreak, excitement, frustration and a worthy winner. It had all of us on the edge of our seats or jumping up and down on the sofa. Matt de Neef joins Abby, Loren and Gracie to break down the race.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Could Paris-Roubaix Femmes be SD Worx undoing?

Escape Collective — Fri, 07 Apr 2023 02:38:13 -0600

On this bonus episode of the Wheel Talk Podcast Abby and Loren preview the startlist and course for Paris-Roubaix Femmes avec Zwift. Plus Abby chats with EF Education-TIBCO-SVB's Alison Jackson and Canyon//SRAM's Maike van der Duin.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

No stopping SD Worx at Flanders

Escape Collective — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 03:38:03 -0600

This week's episode of the Wheel Talk Podcast with Abby, Loren, and Gracie is all about the 2023 edition of Tour of Flanders. It was another dominant ride by SD Worx with a few teams suffering bad luck and some others bad tactics. Plus, there's a lot to look forward to with Paris-Roubaix Femmes avec Zwift around the corner so come back on Friday for a special preview episode of the podcast!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Live with Ellen van Dijk

Escape Collective — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 05:34:54 -0600

In this super special episode of the Wheel Talk Podcast multi-time ITT World Champion Ellen van Dijk joins Abby and Loren to watch the final 27 km of Gent-Wevelgem live. They chat about Ellen's plans after she has her baby, her interest in directing, and take some listener questions for a live audience.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The new Trek-Segafredo

Escape Collective — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 08:21:25 -0600

This week on the Wheel Talk Podcast we talk about one of the oldest one-days on the women's calendar Trofeo Alfredo Binda. We dive into the winning team's tactics, and what other teams maybe did wrong. Plus we answer questions about a women's Milan-Sanremo and more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Veronica Ewers

Escape Collective — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 02:43:46 -0600

For this bonus episode of the Wheel Talk Podcast Abby sat down with Veronica Ewers of EF Education-TIBCO-SVB to talk about her rapid rise in cycling, the current state of racing in the USA, and normalizing mental health in the sport.

You can find the written feature on escapecollective.cc here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SD Worx dominates on European soil

Escape Collective — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 12:10:03 -0600

Welcome to the Wheel Talk Podcast, a podcast breaking down the ins and outs of the Women's WorldTour. Hosted by Abby Mickey, Loren Rowney and Gracie Elvin with special guest Tilda Price.

This week we talk about a very snowy, and short, edition of Ronde van Drenthe, a lot of WorldTour racing that we missed out on, plus we answer a few listener questions about Marta Cavalli, Movistar's ability to challenge Trek-Segafredo and SD Worx, and more.

Find us on Twitter @thewheeltalkpod!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This Isn't Goodbye...

Escape Collective — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 12:30:30 -0600

A little piece of my new show, the Voxwomen Insider powered by Canyon! Follow is on iTunes or SoundCloud.

Myself and my co-host Loren Rowney will be breaking down the women's races, chatting riders to watch and team tactics, as well as conducting exclusive interviews with the pelotons best riders!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

with Kristy Scrymgeour

Escape Collective — Tue, 28 Mar 2017 09:03:01 -0600

Kristy Scrymgeour has been involved with some of the top race teams in the world, from HTC Highroad to Velocio SRAM. She's even raced and also written about women's cycling, so she really knows her stuff. In this episode we chat about team dynamics, building a good program, sponsors, and her clothing company, Velocio Apparel.

https://velocio.cc

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

with Meredith Miller pt 1

Escape Collective — Sat, 25 Mar 2017 09:16:34 -0600

Meredith Miller and I sit down and chat about tattoos, wine, style points, and oh ya! bike racing. We had so much fun chatting that we talked for over 2 hours! Good news for you is I've split it into two parts, so this week you get two episodes of Wheel Talk!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

with Katie Hall

Escape Collective — Mon, 20 Mar 2017 08:52:28 -0600

The first time I met Katie was in the airport before the 2013 North Star Grand Prix (then Nature Valley). We were both collegiate riders chosen to race for the Collegiate All Stars, a pretty rad team comprised of the top collegiate riders, created to give them a chance to race a national level race against some of the best in the country. Katie and I got along well pretty much immediately. From the beginning I was blown away by her physical ability on a bike, but even more so by the fact that all through that race she was super sick and never once complained. She would get back from each stage, heat up a big pot of water, and sit on the floor with her head over the pot covered by a towel to try and get the crap out of her nose. She rode her heart out regardless of her health, and it was incredible. In 2015 we became teammates on UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling. We were teammates at team camp and pretty much inseparable the rest of our time on the team together. Throughout her career Katie has shown consistent improvement every single year. She is strong, but more impressive is her skills in the peloton. I've had the privilege of watching her grow as an athlete, and even of being a guest at her wedding. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I enjoyed catching up with Katie.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

with Louise Laker

Escape Collective — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 01:27:43 -0700

Episode Six is a little different from the previous episodes in that Louise isn't a "professional" cyclist, however, her story is something some people only dream about. Not many people have the guts to completely pick up your life and move to a new country where you don't know the culture or speak the language just so you can live life the way you want to. It's been a few years since Louise moved to Girona, Spain from London. Since moving to Girona she has started a successful cycling touring company, Eat Sleep Cycle, with her husband and their mutual friend. She spends most of her days researching restaurants, planning rides, and of course riding her bike all over the place. Louise is definitely following her dreams and building a life she can be proud of. Her story is inspiring, so I hope you enjoy hearing about her! And definitely look into Eat Sleep Cycle if you also dream of riding your bike in beautiful places and eating amazing food!

http://eatsleepcycle.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

with Iris Slappendel

Escape Collective — Tue, 28 Feb 2017 00:28:39 -0700

In episode five of Wheel Talk, Iris and I chat about her career, the state of women's cycling, and what's next for her in retirement. Along with many more funny anecdotes are opinions, this is an episode not to miss! Thank you for listening, and I hope you enjoy...

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

with Ally Murphy

Escape Collective — Wed, 22 Feb 2017 07:00:00 -0700

When Ally was racing professionally she was racing for the best team in the world. Her hard work was behind countless team wins and her reputation for turning herself inside out was know throughout the peloton (and the world...). A few years ago Ally started making bars to eat during training and was testing them out on her teammates. Now, those bars have grown into a full blown business, Ally's Bars. Some of the most delicious bars on the market! (I'm a personal fan of the Apple Carrot Ginger flavor) In addition to being a business woman, Ally is also a new mother to Liam Blaze Murphy, born late September 21, 2016 to Ally and her husband John Murphy (professional rider for Holowesko Citadel).

Ally and I chatted about her career, wrestling, teamwork, and much more in episode four of Wheel Talk...

allysbar.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

with Alison Powers

Escape Collective — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 06:00:50 -0700

On episode three of Wheel Talk: Alison Powers and I discuss the change between racing for yourself on downhill skis and racing for a team on a bike along with how she is spending her "retirement", and more!

Alison's coaching company can be found here: alpcyclescoaching.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

with Amber Pierce

Escape Collective — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 00:54:02 -0700

In episode two of Wheel Talk I chat with teammate Amber Pierce about her start in cycling, injury, nutrition, getting bad advice, and much more. An episode packed full of laughter, jokes, and great advice (that you should take with a grain of salt). Amber has been racing professionally in the USA and Europe for many years and is incredibly intelligent, she is a fantastic mentor for anyone getting started and even for pros who are still finding their place in the sport.

During the podcast Amber and I discuss injury and the website http://injuredathletestoolbox.com which helps athletes mentally work through injury.

Additionally, here is a link to Amber's podcast "Network for Advancing Athletes" https://www.advancingathletes.org/podcast/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

with Hannah Barnes

Escape Collective — Tue, 31 Jan 2017 08:40:29 -0700

I sat down with Hannah Barnes to discuss her path to the pros, breakfast for dinner, and speaking American.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.