Colleen Maher: From Couch Potato to Gravel National Champion

In this episode of The Stable Cyclist Podcast, I sit down with Colleen Maher, whose rise in gravel racing is nothing short of incredible. Just three years ago, she was a self-proclaimed couch potato—now, she’s a national champion. We discuss her rapid ascension in the sport, what it’s like to experience so much success so quickly, and how that can lead to an unexpected identity crisis. When cycling becomes such a big part of who you are, what happens next?

Beyond racing, we dive into the struggle of making new friends as an adult and how cycling has helped her build a strong community. Colleen also shares insights on getting more beginners involved in the sport and why progress looks different for everyone. Whether you’re just getting into cycling or have been riding for years, this episode is packed with inspiration and real talk about the challenges of personal growth in sport and life.

Follow Colleen on Instagram for more content: @colleenmaher007

Follow JP on Instagram for more content: @thestablecyclist

If you’d like to ask JP a question for an upcoming Ask JP Anything episode, send him a DM on instagram @thestablecyclist or send an email to thestablecyclist@gmail.com

The companies supporting JP and this channel:

Maplelag Resort - https://www.maplelag.com/

Flow Formulas - https://flowformulas.com/discount/JOHNPETER15

Owl City Cycles - https://www.owlcitycycles.com

The Black Bibs - https://www.theblackbibs.com

Ignition Coach Co. - https://www.ignitioncoachco.com/

Mental Health Advocacy - Go4Graham - https://www.go4graham.org/

Resources: 988 Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/

International Bipolar Foundation: https://ibpf.org/

National Association for Mental Illness: https://www.nami.org/