Episodes
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Nathan is a household name in cycling, having raced at the World Tour level for 10 years, participated in all Grand Tours, and sparked many conversations about the present and future of gravel cycling—all while achieving top results and inspiring others.
In this action-packed episode, we sit down with Nathan to explore gravel riding, the best routes around Girona, its coffee culture, cycling community, and why Girona has become a cycling mecca.
We also discuss the spirit of gravel, where camaraderie and competition create a passionate, welcoming community, and why events like the Iceland Rift are gaining attention. Other topics include athlete branding on social media, the rising competitiveness in gravel racing, advancements in equipment, biomechanics, and other factors driving increased speed and performance, as well as empowering women in the sport, and more.
Tune in for an episode full of insights, inspiration, and everything that makes gravel cycling unique.
Chapters
00:00 Intro
03:58 The Girona Coffee Culture
06:07 Favorite Castelli Product
10:07 Why Gravel is Better than World Tour Racing
10:40 Best Jersey Design
13:22 Best Girona Gravel Ride
16:13 Why Girona is a Cyclist's Paradise
19:25 Advice for Aspiring Gravel Racers
21:33 The Best Part of Gravel Racing
26:18 Race Coverage and Athlete Branding
34:50 The Spirit of Gravel
45:23 Empowering Women
47:33 Outro
– LINKS –
Girona Coffee Shops:
https://www.instagram.com/oniriacafe/
https://www.instagram.com/tramuntana_girona
Nathan’s Favorite Ride From Girona
https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/269428651
Richard Pearce, R–A/D Collection
https://www.castelli-cycling.com/highlights/r-ad-collection
– GUEST –
Born in Australia, Nathan Haas was originally a mountain biker and represented Australia at two UCI World Championships. In 2009, he switched to road racing, competing in the World Tour for a decade before transitioning to gravel racing in 2021. He has lived in Girona, Spain, since 2012.
CONNECT
https://www.instagram.com/nathanpeterhaas/
https://www.strava.com/pros/12924172
– HOST –
Søren Jensen, Global Marketing Manager at Castelli, has worked for this iconic brand since 2006. He usually rides backroads and dirt trails, testing new gear in the Italian Dolomites. If you can't find him there, check the Castelli Headquarters in Fonzaso.
CONNECT
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjensen77/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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At just 22, Gaia Masetti is already making waves in the women’s WorldTour. With a deep passion for cycling that began in childhood, Gaia has raced in some of the biggest events on the calendar as part of the AG Insurance Soudal team.
In this episode, Gaia reflects on her journey from winning her first race at the age of six to turning pro at just 21. She discusses the challenges she faced along the way, the unwavering support of her family, and how cyclocross helped shape her technical skills on the bike. She shares insights into her favorite Castelli gear, the races she’d like to win one day, what it’s like to race for the national team, and reveals her love for Italian ice cream, pizza, and what's on her curated Spotify playlist.
Join us for an inspiring chat with this rising Italian star!
CHAPTERS
00:00 Intro
03:12 The Role of Castelli in Professional Cycling
06:04 Training Regimen and Coaching Dynamics
08:58 Racing Preferences: Stage vs. One-Day Races
11:51 Experiences in Major Races and Atmosphere
15:09 Cyclocross and Its Influence on Road Cycling
18:03 Representing Italy: The National Team Experience
20:54 Personal Preferences and Lifestyle as a Cyclist
24:11 Cultural Insights: Food and Music in Gaia's Life
27:01 Family Influence and Support in Cycling
30:06 Future Aspirations
– GUEST –
Gaia Masetti is an Italian professional cyclist riding for AG Insurance–Soudal She has gained recognition for her performances, including a victory at the La Classique Morbihan in 2023. Additionally, she won a gold medal in the mixed team relay at the 2024 European Road Championships and has competed in prestigious events like the Tour de France Femmes and Giro d’Italia Women.
CONNECT
Instagram
AG Insurance Soudal
– HOST –
Søren Jensen, Global Marketing Manager at Castelli, has worked for this iconic brand since 2006. He usually rides backroads and dirt trails, testing new gear in the Italian Dolomites. If you can't find him there, check the Castelli Headquarters in Fonzaso.
CONNECT
LinkedIn
SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS
If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Missing episodes?
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The pressure to achieve ideal weight in cycling and triathlon, hit competitive power-to-weight ratios, and meet physical expectations drives a surprising number of male and female elite athletes into a state of low energy availability. In this series, we explore RED-S, what it entails, and why diagnosing it is so complex.
If you missed the first episode, we strongly recommend starting there as these two episodes serve as a comprehensive guide for athletes at all levels looking to enhance their performance through proper nutrition and hydration, with a focus on both physical and mental well-being.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Intro
02:57 Best Practices for Treating RED-S
05:46 The Importance of Mental Health in Sports Nutrition
09:07 Educating Young Athletes on Nutrition and Health
11:56 The Counterintuitive Benefits of Increased Energy Intake
14:47 Shifting Mindsets Around Nutrition and Eating Behaviors
18:01 Tailoring Nutrition to Training Demands
20:52 Fluid and Electrolyte Management for Athletes
23:47 The Role of Sodium in Hydration and Performance
26:57 Nutrient Density and Whole Foods in Athletic Diets
29:50 Practical Nutrition Strategies for Endurance Athletes
33:03 The Importance of Training the Gut for Endurance Events
35:48 Emerging Research and Trends in Sports Nutrition
56:00 Ending
IMPORTANT LINKS
RED-S Study: Escape Collective
Researchgate Study
Full Paper, click here.
RED-S Symptoms Overview
– GUEST –
Dani Hofstetter has been fueling champions for over 20 years. He holds the IOC Diploma in Sports Nutrition, awarded by the International Olympic Committee as part of the IOC Medical and Scientific Commission program. Throughout his career, he has worked with a wide range of athletes, from World Tour cyclists to mountaineers and amateur cyclists.
CONNECT
Dani Hofstetter bio
LinkedIn
Instagram
Strava
– HOST –
Søren Jensen, Global Marketing Manager at Castelli, has worked for this iconic brand since 2006. He usually rides backroads and dirt trails, testing new gear in the Italian Dolomites. If you can't find him there, check the Castelli Headquarters in Fonzaso.
CONNECT
LinkedIn
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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As athletes, we constantly push to hit our peak, whether it’s achieving the ideal weight, nailing competitive power-to-weight ratios, or meeting physical expectations. But this pressure can sometimes lead to low energy availability and, in turn, the critical condition known as Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S).
Whether you're training for a race or managing your daily workouts, RED-S can seriously impact your health and performance. In our latest two podcast episodes, we dive deep into what RED-S is, why diagnosing it is so complex, and how it’s impacting athletes of all levels.
Let’s dive in!
CHAPTERS
00:00 Intro and Overview
02:48 Understanding RED-S
05:46 Differences Between RED-S and the Female Athlete Triad
08:59 Hormonal Imbalances and Their Consequences
11:51 The Role of Metabolism in Athletic Performance
15:09 Bone Health and Energy Availability in Athletes
18:01 Measuring Energy Expenditure and Intake
20:56 Signs and Symptoms of RED-S
24:10 Nutrition Strategies for Athletes
27:02 Long-term Consequences of RED-S
30:12 Case Study: Georgie Howe and Energy Deficit Performance
32:57 Challenges in Diagnosing RED-S
35:48 The Importance of Tailored Nutrition Plans
39:05 Micronutrient Density and Athletic Performance
41:49 Bone Density Scans and Monitoring Health
45:06 Treatment Approaches for RED-S
46:00 Ending
IMPORTANT LINKS
RED-S Study: Escape Collective
Researchgate Study
Full Paper, click here.
RED-S Symptoms Overview
– GUEST –
Dani Hofstetter has been fueling champions for over 20 years. He holds the IOC Diploma in Sports Nutrition, awarded by the International Olympic Committee as part of the IOC Medical and Scientific Commission program. Throughout his career, he has worked with a wide range of athletes, from World Tour cyclists to mountaineers and amateur cyclists.
Dani is also an ultra-cyclist and coach based near Zurich, Switzerland, focused on simplifying nutrition and helping athletes avoid fad diets. You can find Dani’s contact details below.
CONNECT
Dani Hofstetter bio
LinkedIn
Instagram
Strava
– HOST –
Søren Jensen, Global Marketing Manager at Castelli, has worked for this iconic brand since 2006. He usually rides backroads and dirt trails, testing new gear in the Italian Dolomites. If you can't find him there, check the Castelli Headquarters in Fonzaso.
CONNECT
LinkedIn
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Today's guest is truly inspiring—a superstar admired by millions of fans. We’re joined by NBA Hall of Famer and Olympian Reggie Miller. While Reggie is widely known for his legendary basketball career, today we’ll discuss his love for mountain biking and gravel riding, the cycling community, his missioan to boost diversity in the sport, and his passion for getting more kids and people of color involved. We’ll also explore his efforts to make cycling more accessible for everyone.
Joining Reggie is Matt Lieto, a world-famous athlete who has competed in several Ironman World Championships and races like the Unbound 200, and now shares his insights as a coach, podcaster, and commentator.
The interview was recorded during the world-class gravel event, SBT GRVL, in and around beautiful Steamboat Springs, in CO.
We're sure you'll enjoy this one, so sit back, relax and kick your feet up!
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Opportunity
13:28 Mission to Boost Diversity in Cycling
22:10 Reggie Miller's Personal Journey in Cycling
27:32 Favorite Bikes and Riding Locations
34:40 The Importance of Community and Support
– GUEST –
Reggie Miller, one of the greatest shooters in NBA history, spent his entire 18-year career with the Indiana Pacers, where he became the franchise’s all-time leading scorer. Known for his incredible three-point shooting and clutch performances, Reggie was a five-time NBA All-Star and left a lasting legacy, especially with his unforgettable rivalry against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. He’s the guy who could silence an entire arena with a single shot. And if you’re a Knicks fan, you probably still have some feelings about him! After hanging up his jersey in 2005, Reggie moved on to become a successful sports commentator, continuing to leave his mark on the game he loves.
CONNECT
https://www.instagram.com/reggiemillertnt/
Dropping Dimes Foundation: https://droppingdimes.org
– CO-HOST –
Matt Lieto is a professional triathlete, coach, and commentator, known for his expertise in Ironman competitions. Despite starting his athletic journey later, he became a respected figure in the sport. Today, Matt is a well-regarded coach and mentor to athletes of all levels, and he’s a familiar voice in the endurance sports world as a commentator for major triathlon events, including Ironman. His approachable style and in-depth analysis have made him a favorite among fans and athletes alike.
CONNECT
https://www.instagram.com/mattlieto/
SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS
If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Join us for a thrilling episode of the Castelli Podcast with João Paulo de Oliveira, a Brazilian racing ace in Japan's Super GT scene. Discover how João uses cycling to stay fit and explore the parallels between these two high-demand sports.
Learn how cycling not only keeps João in peak condition but also allows him to explore Japan’s stunning landscapes, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to serene countryside routes and the iconic climb up Mount Fuji.
Whether you’re into road cycling, curious about the high-tech world of Super GT, or someone who appreciates the finer things in life—like scenic bike routes, Tokyo’s cycling culture and delicious Japanese food— this episode has something for everyone. Tune in for an inspiring and dynamic conversation!
CHAPTERS
00:40 Introduction and Preview
04:46 João's Passion for Cycling
07:12 Getting Out of Tokyo, Exploring Japan by Bike
10:22 Favorite Climbs Outside of Tokyo
15:30 Car Racing vs Cycling
16:40 João's Racing Journey and Move to Japan
28:12 Super GT and its Unique Features
41:18 The Importance of the Driver-Engineer Relationship
43:21 The Mental Toughness Required in Elite Sports
46:42 Dedication and Commitment
49:16 Cycling is a Lifestyle and Life Lessons
50:37 Training and Rest for Peak Performance
55:58 Training G-Force
01:01:12 Nutrition, Physio
01:06:35 The Joy of Living and Cycling in Japan
01:10:03 The Connection Between Car Handling and Bike Handling
01:15:48 Specialized Ambassador
01:16:51 Story Behind A Unique Piece of Race Car Art
01:18:11 Ending
– GUEST –
João Paulo Lima de Oliveira is a Brazilian race car driver competing in the Japanese Super GT series. He won the Super GT GT300 class championship in 2020 and 2022, and the Formula Nippon championship in 2010. JP, as he is known, is one of the most successful drivers in Japan over the last decade, with victories in every category he’s competed in. After dominating German F3 in 2003, he moved to Japan in 2004, winning the Japanese F3 title the following year. He then spent 13 years as a factory driver for Nissan in Super GT and Super Formula, renowned for his speed and car development skills.
CONNECT
Instagram
STRAVA
A Beginners Guide To Super GT
Motorsports.com
– HOST –
Søren Jensen, Global Marketing Manager at Castelli, has worked for this iconic brand since 2006. He usually rides backroads and dirt trails, testing new gear in the Italian Dolomites. If you can't find him there, check the Castelli Headquarters in Fonzaso.
CONNECT
LinkedIn
SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS
If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, we sit down with Belgian female pro-cyclist Justine Ghekiere. She shares her remarkable journey, from discovering eRacing during the COVID pandemic to making her mark in the women's professional peloton. Justine's story is a testament to the rapid pace of her rise in the cycling world, her obsession with indoor training, and the mental grit that fuels her passion for the sport.
Join us as we delve into Justine's love for climbing, her favorite rides when she's come in Flanders and to Calpe in Spain, and the training routines that have shaped her career. She also reveals her challenges in positioning within the peloton and sprinting, her thrilling experience racing in Italy, and her favorite foods. Justine's story is a powerful reminder of the dedication and perseverance it takes to succeed at the highest levels of the sport.
Whether you're a cycling enthusiast or inspired by tales of hard work and achievement, this episode offers a compelling look at what it takes to climb to the top—literally and figuratively.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction
03:08 Justine Ghekiere's Inspiring Journey
04:29 From Lockdown to Professional Cyclist
08:39 Riding around Calpe, Spain
11:12 Not fan of cobbles, and favorite rides
13:14 Fueling the Ride: Justine Ghekiere's Favorite Belgian Dish
15:05 Chasing Dreams, first race and training routine
18:49 Justine's experience at the Giro d'Italia Women 2023
19:22 Ending
– GUEST –
Justine Ghekiere, a Belgian cyclist with AG Insurance - Soudal, transitioned to professional cycling after discovering Zwift during the lockdown. A former physical education teacher and coach, she quickly rose through the ranks, winning her first virtual race. Justine’s love for sushi, pizza, and radio hits fuels her journey in the peloton.
CONNECT
Instagram
AG Insurance Soudal
– HOST –
Søren Jensen, Global Marketing Manager at Castelli, has worked for this iconic brand since 2006. He usually rides backroads and dirt trails, testing new gear in the Italian Dolomites. If you can't find him there, check the Castelli Headquarters in Fonzaso.
CONNECT
LinkedIn
SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS
If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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The Castelli Podcast recap is a monthly episode highlighting some of the best bits from one of our past podcast episodes. You can find the full 57-minute episode from November 29, 2023, or at this link: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-nutrition-ep2-what-is-the-optimal-diet-for/id1669906821?i=1000636862451
Expert sports performance nutritionist Dani Hofstetter shares invaluable insights on the importance of balanced nutrition, strategies for fueling everyday performance, comparisons between animal-based and plant-based protein sources, optimal protein and carbohydrate intake for peak performance, and a comprehensive breakdown of essential nutritional elements.
Don't miss out on this invaluable guide to unlocking your athletic potential through informed nutrition choices.
TOPICS DISCUSSED
00:00 Introduction
01:20 Food as Fuel and Recovery for Performance Optimization
02:17 Matching Carbohydrate Intake to Activity Levels
03:16Avoiding Underfueling and the Negative Consequences
05:15The Risks of Low Carbohydrate Diets
06:12 Fueling Strategies for Long Training Days
07:09 Daily Carbohydrate Recommendations for Athletes
09:05 Balancing Leanness and Performance
10:30 Nutrition Education for Young Athletes
11:23 Assessing Fueling Effectiveness
12:20 The Importance of Meal Planning
13:42 Avoiding Overanalysis of Food Tracking
14:38 Recovering from Bonking
17:30 Choosing the Right Drinks for Recovery
18:27 Time to Refuel After Depleting Glycogen Stores
19:25 Starting Fueling from the First Hour of a Ride
20:25 Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Recommendations
23:43 Debunking Nutrition Myths
26:35 Ending
– GUEST –
Dani Hofstetter has been fueling champions for over 20 years. He holds the IOC Diploma in Sports Nutrition, awarded by the International Olympic Committee as part of the IOC Medical and Scientific Commission program. He has collaborated with various athletes throughout his career, from World Tour cyclists to mountaineers and everyday amateur cyclists.
CONNECT
Dani Hofstetter bio:https://danihofstetter.ch/en/
LinkedIn: https://ch.linkedin.com/in/danihofstetter
– HOST –
Søren Jensen, Global Marketing Manager at Castelli, has worked for this iconic brand since 2006. He usually rides backroads and dirt trails, testing new gear in the Italian Dolomites. If you can't find him there, check the Castelli Headquarters in Fonzaso.
CONNECT
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjensen77/
SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS
If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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It's the final Tour de France episode, we're taking a deep dive into the most crucial job in cycling—the soigneur. Are they a butler? A friend? A rider's mum?
We chatted with Kevin Verstaen, an experienced soigneur working for Soudal Quick-Step, who described the role as looking after the welfare of team members and being a "cyclist laborer."
Soigneur stories often include humorous and challenging moments, and they usually see the riders more than their own family. Ultimately, a good soigneur is worth their weight in gold.
Despite the long hours and demanding tasks, the role is fulfilling for those who love the sport, with good soigneurs being invaluable to the team.
Hope you’ll enjoy this episode!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:50 Kevin Verstaen's Journey into Cycling
07:37 A Typical Day at the Tour
13:01 Logistics at the Finish Line
18:07 The Feed Zone and Bottles
21:56 Setting Up the Hotel
24:54 Remco Evenepoel
25:14 The Riders Suitcase, Asgreen, Mørkøv
27:01 Massage and Building Trust
35:21 Gianni Moscon, Apple Farming
36:17 Ending
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Nutrition is a hot topic in the modern peloton, and for good reason. A grand tour like the Tour de France is an immense challenge for the body. Fail to fuel or eat properly, and you'll pay the price.
In this episode, we uncover the latest strategies that pros use to sustain themselves through three weeks of grueling racing. Joining us is Maaike Polspoel, the performance nutritionist for the top-ranked Soudal Quick-Step team.
Tune in to this episode for insights and tips that you can apply to your own training regimen.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:50 Meal Times
06:31 Pre-Race Nutrition and Timing
09:36 Fueling During the Race
19:36 Feed Zone Nutrition and Rice Cakes
23:12 Making Rice Cakes at Home
25:02 Sourcing Local and High-Quality Products
27:38 Nutrition in the Last Week of the Tour
29:40 Cheat Meals and Celebrations
32:18 Hydration and Electrolytes
37:43 Supplements: Bicarbonate and Ketones
39:17 Nutrition Advice for Everyday Cyclists
41:31 Biggest Nutrition Myth: Whole Foods vs. Processed Foods
42:00 Ending
Hope you’ll enjoy the conversation with Maaike!
– LINKS –
Kevin Verstaen
Soudal Quick-Step
Host: Soren Jensen
SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS
If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to [email protected]
________
Follow Castelli on social:
Instagram
Instagram Triathlon
Facebook
We're also on STRAVA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, live from the Tour de France, we're joined by Koen Pelgrim, Performance Coach at Soudal Quick-Step and personal trainer to Remco Evenepoel.
Remco has had an outstanding first week at the Grande Boucle, securing a stage win and the white jersey with an impressive and consistent performance. As we prepare for the race's second half, discover how Remco and his Soudal Quick-Step teammates have been gearing up for the season's biggest event.
We'll explore mastering cycling performance and training using today's technology, including power meters, heart rate monitors, and lactate testing while emphasizing the importance of personal feeling over numbers. Highlighting the significance of sleep and body awareness for recovery, Koen offers valuable advice for cyclists on balancing training with work, family, and more.
Koen coordinates the team's training, testing, and performance analysis. With a rich background in exercise physiology and sports nutrition, Koen’s work is pivotal in pushing the boundaries of cycling performance.
Join us for an insightful discussion on the cutting edge of cycling performance!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:29 Koen's Background and Early Years
09:19 How Training Has Changed Over the Last Two Decades
18:18 Blood Lactate Testing
24:04 Challenges and Benefits of Altitude Training
27:01 Preparing for the Tour de France: Recon Rides and Training
31:01 Remco's Performance in the Dauphiné and Goals for the Tour
46:03 The Importance of Sleep for Recovery and Keeping Things Simple
50:38 Massage vs. Stretching and Foam Rolling
52:57 How the Team Staff Maintain Mental Fitness During a Grand Tour
54:05 Ending
Hope you’ll enjoy this one!
– LINKS –
Koen Pelgrim
Soudal Quick-Step
Host: Soren Jensen
SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS
If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to [email protected]
________
Follow Castelli on social:
Instagram
Instagram Triathlon
Facebook
We're also on STRAVA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this 'petite' episode, we’re giving you a speedy introduction to La Grande Boucle and its history, along with some fun and incredible facts. We explore its iconic climbs, the introduction of different leader jerseys, and the thrill of watching the race.
We also highlight some of the early champions and pioneers, discuss the evolution of team sponsorship over the years, and much more.
Hope you’ll enjoy this one!
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
00:54 2024 Overview and Firsts
03:30 History and Present of La Grand Boucle
06:47 First Iconic Climbs
08:00 Champs’Elysee
08:37 The Leader Jerseys and most winners
13:28 Roadside fans and spectators
14:45 Ending
SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS
If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to [email protected]
Follow Castelli on social:
Instagram
Instagram Triathlon
Facebook
We're also on STRAVA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In our series profiling the team behind the riders, it’s all about communication activations, social media, partner marketing campaigns, and mental health awareness.
You might have caught a glimpse of today’s guest in the background during rider interviews at races and Grand Tours. His name is Phil Lowe, Press Officer for one of the sport’s biggest and most historical WorldTour cycling teams, Soudal Quick-Step.
I brought Phil on to the show because I believe many of us often find ourselves sitting on our couches, watching cycling races, Grand Tours, Classics, and Monuments, and wondering: what really happens behind the scenes at a WorldTour team? How do they handle the pressure from the outside world, especially in today’s always-on social media environment, where a PR disaster can strike at any moment?
Not to mention, they’ve got to plan, execute, and coordinate communication activations, social media, partner marketing campaigns, and more.
We also talk about the team’s mental health awareness campaign and the need to break the stigma surrounding mental health in sports and daily life. We conclude the interview by discussing the future of professional cycling and the changes we would like to see in the sport.
I hope you’ll enjoy the episode.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:11 Phil Lowe's Journey
11:45 Remco Evenepoel
13:30 Wolfpack Mentality
16:03 Park of the Pack Mental Health Awareness
22:12 Most Difficult Decision
25:32 The Future of Pro-Cycling
27:32 Ending
– LINKS –
Phil Lowe
Mental Health Campaign
Soudal Quick-Step
Host: Soren Jensen
SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS
If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to [email protected]
Follow Castelli on social:
Instagram
Instagram Triathlon
Facebook
We're also on STRAVA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Born just 31 days apart in the autumn of 1992, Soudal Quick-Step's Tim Merlier and Bert Van Lerberghe are a duo whose fates have long been connected.
In the first bunch sprint of the 2024 Giro d'Italia, Tim Merlier made history by becoming the first Belgian in 46 years to win three stages in a single edition of the Giro d’Italia. With help from his childhood friend Bert Van Lerberghe, who ramped up the speed under the flamme rouge to guide Tim to the final meters.
Less than a week after their unforgettable Giro d’Italia, the Belgian duo triumphed again at the Danish Gravel Challenge Blaavandshuk. They stayed in the lead group all day, with Bert closing down attacks in the final kilometers before Tim broke away near the finish to win and Van Lerberghe finished third, making it another perfect day for Soudal Quick-Step.
In this interview, we’ll go behind the scenes to get to know Tim and Bert better, from their first pedal stroke to succeeding in the pro ranks of the WorldTour. We’ll also gain deeper insight into their personal lives, passion for cyclocross and gravel racing, favorite Castelli products, and more.
So, sit back and enjoy my conversation with Tim and Bert. I promise you, it's packed with insights and excitement.
🏆 We have TWO signed Soudal Quick-Step jerseys of for grabs. To participate, simply comment on your favorite moment or quote from this podcast episode on YouTube or in our pinned Instagram post.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Welcome
03:10 Tim’s Journey into Pro Cycling
11:04 Bert’s Journey into Pro Cycling
18:50 Gravel Racing
24:07 Bert’s Strengths and Weakness
26:55 Tim’s Strengths and Weakness
28:29 First Castelli Memory
29:41 Favorite Castelli Products
31:30 Favorite Race to Win one Day Tim
32:42 Winning Gesture when Crossing the Line Tim
33:32 Favorite Race to Win one Day Bert
34:52 Favorite Paris-Roubaix sectore?!?
35:25 Quick Fire Round of Questions
37:40 Perfetto or Gabba?
43:44 Should Cobble and Gravel Stages be Part of a Grand Tour
45:35 Ending
45:50 Giveaway
(Recorded on December 13, 2023)
– LINKS –
Tim Merlier
Bert Van Lerberghe
Host: Soren Jensen
SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS
If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to [email protected]
Follow Castelli on social:
Instagram
Instagram Triathlon
Facebook
We're also on STRAVA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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The 107th Giro d’Italia kicks off on Saturday, promising three weeks of breathtaking climbs, scenic views, and, above all, great racing. In this episode, we'll delve into some iconic moments in Giro history; the first Maglia Rosa, Marco Pantani's legendary attack to Oropa in 1999, Andy Hampsten's epic day on Passo Gavia in 1988, and Castelli's innovations and marketing stunts during the Giro, such as introducing turquoise Lycra shorts and the evolution of cycling jerseys.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Welcome
01:22 Castelli STRAVA Challenge
02:34 Marco Pantani's Legendary Attack To Oropa 1999
05:57 Passo Gavia 1988, Andy Hampsten's Epic Day
08:49 Castelli innovations, First Colored Lycra Shorts
09:42 Castelli innovations, Evolution of Cycling Jersey
14:09 Ending
– LINKS –
Castelli STRAVA Challenge
Castelli Giro d’Italia Collection
Host: Soren Jensen
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In this episode, I caught up with multiple South African champion Ashleigh Moolman Pasio. We talked about how she ended up in Banyoles near Girona, the Rocacorba Cycling business, her QOM Strava record on the famous Rocacorba climb near Girona, and the challenge she set herself to get the best women's time below 30 minutes.
Ashleigh will share her advice on how to pace yourself when aiming for your PR because pushing just a little over your limit for half of the climb will ultimately cost you later.
The Rocacorba will never attain the status of an Alpe d'Huez, Stelvio, or Tre Cime di Lavaredo, but thanks to a lucky combination of geography, local patronage, and technology, It has already become much more than a footnote in cycling folklore.
We hope you’ll enjoy this fully packed and insightful episode with Ashleigh Moolman Pascio of AG Insurance - Soudal cycling team
Watch the interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/aSg4d5oRQHY
CHAPTERS
00:00 Welcome
05:20 Live From Columbia
09:31 Rocacorba Cycling, How It All Started
20:23 Rocacorba
21:45 A Bucket List Climb, the Pros Test Climb
29:29 Strava Segment, Mastering the Pacing Strategy
36:20 When Getting to the Top
38:49 Tips for Descending Rocacorba Safely
41:16 Training Intervals and Efforts
48:41 The Benefits of Riding with Local Guides in Girona
52:08 Rocacorba Strava QOM
56:25 Ending
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Rocacorba Cycling
Rocacorba Strava Segment
Ashleigh Moolman Pascio
Host: Soren Jensen
SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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There’s a great deal of excitement surrounding the young US talent Luke Lamperti, but no one – not even himself – knows quite what sort of rider he is or will become as he embarks on his first World Tour season with Soudal Quick-Step.
Originally from California, Lamperti began riding dirt bikes at the age of three. Over the recent seasons, he has emerged as one of the most sought-after young riders, showcasing his prowess with numerous victories and promising potential in sprints and one-day races.
Packing an impressive speed, the 21-year-old is keen to show what he is capable of, not just in bunch sprints but also in the Classics, which he is very fond of.
In this podcast episode, Luke Lamperti shares his experiences and insights on crit and kermesse racing and his career. He discusses his training, favorite race courses, and the importance of comfort and trust in the pack. Luke also talks about his transition from US racing to European racing and his goals for the future.From his affinity for Castelli gear to his race-day nutrition strategies, Lamperti provides a comprehensive glimpse into the life of a professional cyclist, offering invaluable insights for both amateur enthusiasts and seasoned professionals keen on crit racing.
We hope you’ll enjoy this fully packed and insightful episode with Luke Lamperti of @soudalquickstep
TOPICS DISCUSSED
00:00 Introduction
03:06 Luke's Background and Journey into Cycling
4:51 Return to Castelli
7:56 Transition from US Racing to European Racing
9:21 Move to Girona and Signing with Soudal Quickstep
21:17 Crit and Kermesse Racing
27:18 Training for Crit Racing
31:36 Tire Size, Pressure, and Nutrition for Crit Racing
34:00 Ending
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Luke Lamperti
Host: Soren Jensen
SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS
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Join us for a gripping journey into the heart of professional cycling as we delve into the last three decades of pro racing and the world of sports directing.
From Tom’s excitement of joining the number one Classics team when racing pro to later becoming DS for the same team, discover the evolution of cycling, the challenges young athletes face, and the importance of mental toughness in this captivating conversation.
From the chaos of the Tour of Flanders to the relentless battlefields of Roubaix, we uncover the strategies, challenges, and split-second decisions that shape the outcome of these monumental races, the intense pressure, camaraderie, and occasional controversies that unfold behind the scenes.
Discover the untold stories of mechanics scrambling to find the riders' foul-weather clothing in the rain bag, spare wheels, the strategic game of supplying riders during crucial moments, and the delicate balance between following the rules and prioritizing rider safety and performance.
Gain insight into the human side of professional cycling as Tom reflects on the joys of victory, the frustrations of defeat, and the unwavering dedication to supporting riders through triumph and adversity.
Get ready to experience the thrill, tension, and exhilaration of cycling races like never before.
Take a seat inside the Soudal Quick-Step team car as we explore the dynamics during some of the most iconic races in cycling history.
Welcome inside the team car and the unseen drama of cycling races.
TOPICS DISCUSSED
00:00 Introduction
04:43 The Early Years, Tom’s Journey Into Cycling
13:59 Transforming Young Talented Riders into Champions
18:04 The Transition to DS
21:50 Studying the Race Course
24:59 Race Radio vs Moving on Instinct
26:11 Racing, Communication, Post-Race Briefing
39:02 Race Rain Bag Logistics
48:43 UCI Rules and Fines
59:29 Eddy Merckx
01:10:15 Ending
It's a fully packed and insightful episode with Tom Steels of Soudal Quick-Step.
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Tom Steels
Host: Soren Jensen
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In the world of professional cycling, where the spotlight often shines on the riders conquering the grueling races, there exists a group of individuals working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure every pedal stroke is supported by a perfectly tuned machine. These unsung heroes are the mechanics, the wizards of the workshop who transform bikes into race-ready steeds capable of enduring the harshest conditions and most demanding terrains.
We chatted with Nicolas Coosemans, technical and development manager of Soudal Quick-Step to find out more about the life of a World Tour mechanic, his wildest fixes of all time, the evolution of bike equipment over the last decade, which riders are interested in bike maintenance, how quickly their mechanics can set up a bike, and more.
(Recorded in Calpe, Spain, December 14, 2023)
TOPICS DISCUSSED
00:00 Introduction
01:50 Nico’s Journey
07:19 What makes a good mechanic?
10:01 A Day In The Life Of A Pro-Mechanic
20:02 Tubes, Tubular or Tubeless?
21:16 Tire inserts and Extra Sealant for RBX
24:55 Grand Tour Custom Paint Job and Bar Wrap
26:48 Transition To Disc Brakes
28:58 Maintenance and Evolution of Bike Tech
38:32 Crashes, Broken Parts
39:48 UCI Safety Rules
43:18 Ending
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Nicolas Coosemans
Host: Soren Jensen
SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS
If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to [email protected]
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In this episode, we are delighted to introduce Ilse Pluimers, a young and exceptionally talented athlete from the Castelli-equipped AG Insurance Soudal team, excelling in both cyclocross and road cycling.
It's a lively conversation about Ilse's passion for cyclocross and one-day racing. We explore how she balances her road career with cyclocross in winter, and she shares insider tips and know-how about this amazing sport, covering technical aspects and how to get started.
Towards the end of the episode, we delve into Ilse’s passion and love for the cobbled classics, particularly the iconic Paris-Roubaix. We hope you enjoy this episode, gaining a deeper understanding of the world of cyclocross and Ilse's impressive journey in the sport.
Enjoy!
TOPICS DISCUSSED
00:00 Introduction
05:02 The Cyclocross Athlete
8:34 The Course, Recon, Race Prep.
20:56 Race Time
25:27 Cyclocross idols
26:25 How to Get Started, Technical Skills
35:41 Paris-Roubaix, How To Ride Cobbles
41:37 European Road Championship U23
45:16 Cycling Journey
47:40 Ending
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Guest: Ilse Pluimers
Host: Soren Jensen
GCN: Why Should You Watch CX?
SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to [email protected]
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We're also on STRAVA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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