The Stable Cyclist

Bicycle Crumbs aka Richard Pool | Why Relationships Matter More Than Talent

In the first episode of The Stable Cyclist Podcast for 2026, I sit down with Richard Pool, better known to many in the cycling world as Bicycle Crumbs. Richard is widely respected for his work in cycling marketing, including his roles at Speedvagen Cycles and Silca, and for the way he has built a career rooted in genuine relationships. In this conversation, we explore why relationships often matter more than talent — not just in the cycling industry, but in life — and how showing up, staying curious, and investing in people can shape unexpected career paths.
Richard shares stories from his early roots in gravel cycling, his transition through different corners of the bike world, and the role that shared adventures play in a meaningful life. From racing events like Mid South to chasing ambitious personal challenges — including the idea of attempting a 24-hour distance record around a roundabout — this episode dives into the importance of always having one big, epic goal on the calendar. We also reflect on how our own paths crossed, how collaboration naturally followed, and how those relationships ultimately led us to working together at Silca, telling deeper stories within the cycling community.
https://silca.cc/discount/thestablecyclistpod  or the code is "thestablecyclistpod"
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/
Wark's Cycling Services - https://www.warkscyclingservices.com/
Ignition Coach Co. - https://www.ignitioncoachco.com/
Gulo Composites - https://gulocomposites.com/
Flow Formulas - https://flowformulas.com/discount/JOHNPETER15
Wahoo Fitness - https://amzn.to/48RUSqe Owl City Cycles - https://www.owlcitycycles.com
The Black Bibs - https://amzn.to/3XRlMtm
Dawn to Dusk - https://amzn.to/48zKi8p
Some of the above are affiliate links, but all are personally vetted and recommended
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/
#thestablecyclistpodcast #BicycleCrumbs #RelationshipsMatter

Not Like This: Ben Frederick on Survival, TBI, and Finding His Way Back

Nearly a decade ago, American cyclocross racer Ben Frederick suffered a devastating crash that changed everything. What began as a concussion spiraled into a traumatic brain injury (TBI), years of post-concussion syndrome, and a long, uncertain recovery that cost Ben his career, his identity, and nearly his life.
As his physical recovery stalled, Ben fell into deep depression and developed an eating disorder — clinging to the one thing he felt he could still control. At rock bottom, facing a life-or-death moment, Ben made a defining decision: not like this.
In this episode of The Stable Cyclist Podcast, Ben shares his full story — from injury and identity loss to rebuilding his life piece by piece. We talk about traumatic brain injury, mental health in endurance sports, disordered eating, and the difficult process of finding meaning beyond performance.
That journey ultimately led Ben back to the cyclocross start line, culminating this season with a powerful return to the UCI Cyclocross World Cup, finishing on the lead lap in Tábor.
This conversation goes far beyond racing. It’s a story about survival, resilience, and redefining success when everything you thought defined you is taken away.
Whether you’re an athlete, cyclist, or someone navigating recovery after trauma, this episode offers a rare and honest look at what it really takes to keep going.
 
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/
Wark's Cycling Services - https://www.warkscyclingservices.com/
Ignition Coach Co. - https://www.ignitioncoachco.com/
Gulo Composites - https://gulocomposites.com/
Flow Formulas - https://flowformulas.com/discount/JOHNPETER15
Wahoo Fitness - https://amzn.to/48RUSqe
Owl City Cycles - https://www.owlcitycycles.com
The Black Bibs - https://amzn.to/3XRlMtm
Dawn to Dusk - https://amzn.to/48zKi8p
Some of the above are affiliate links, but all are personally vetted and recommended
 
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/

2025 Pod Awards feat: Dylan Johnson, Kerry Werner, The Holy Spirit of Gravel & More

Welcome to the first-ever Stable Cyclist Podcast Awards, a full celebration of the best, wildest, and most unforgettable moments from an incredible year of conversations in the cycling world. In this episode, JP and co-host Aaron look back at the stories that shaped the show—everything from the most downloaded episode to the most impactful story, the worst interview, the most bleeped swears, and even the most off-the-rails moments that somehow still made it into the final cut. This special awards show also features a surprising story from JP that definitively lands him in the Slytherin House, plus plenty of laughs, throwbacks, and behind-the-scenes insights.
We revisit highlights from an all-star lineup including Dylan Johnson, The Holy Spirit of Gravel, Scott McGill, Nathan & Marc Spratt, Kait Boyle, Spencer Martin, Andrew Vontz, Kerry Werner, Brad Huff, Ian Boswell, Justin McQuerry, Bobby Wintle, Pete Stetina, Chase Wark, and Ted King. Whether you’re new to the show or have been following every episode, this is the perfect way to catch up on the top stories, biggest laughs, and most meaningful moments of the year. Buckle up—this episode is a rollercoaster.
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/
Wark's Cycling Services - https://www.warkscyclingservices.com/
Ignition Coach Co. - https://www.ignitioncoachco.com/
Gulo Composites - https://gulocomposites.com/
Flow Formulas - https://flowformulas.com/discount/JOHNPETER15
Wahoo Fitness - https://amzn.to/48RUSqe
Owl City Cycles - https://www.owlcitycycles.com
The Black Bibs - https://amzn.to/3XRlMtm
Dawn to Dusk - https://amzn.to/48zKi8p
Some of the above are affiliate links, but all are personally vetted and recommended
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/
 

TREY SHEPARD & THE SPRATT BROTHERS REUNITE TO TALK PRO GRAVEL | The Stable Cyclist Podcast

This week on The Stable Cyclist, JP welcomes Nathan and Marc Spratt, along with special guest and longtime friend of the Spratts, Trey Shepard, for one of the most entertaining episodes of the year. The Spratt brothers share their journey from growing up in the Indiana triathlon scene to carving out unexpected careers as rising pros in the American gravel world — all while working full-time as engineers in Utah. Trey helps bring out some incredible stories, launching the conversation into hilarious territory that includes AliExpress bikes at Leadville and the chaos that only childhood friends can unpack together.
The episode also digs deep into TNE, the Salt Lake City group ride that the Spratts have proclaimed the greatest and hardest group ride on the planet — a place where limits get tested, egos get flattened, and legends are made. With humor, honesty, and zero pretense, Nathan and Marc pull back the curtain on what it’s like to be two of gravel’s most underrated dark horses. If you’re into pro gravel racing, good storytelling, or just love hearing fast guys roast each other, this episode is a guaranteed win.
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/
Wark's Cycling Services - https://www.warkscyclingservices.com/
Gulo Composites - https://gulocomposites.com/
Flow Formulas - https://flowformulas.com/discount/JOHNPETER15
Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com
Dawn to Dusk - https://www.https://dawntodusk.bike/
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/

INSIDE BADLANDS, TRAKA 560 & UNBOUND XL w/ Chris Mehlman | The Stable Cyclist Podcast

Chris Mehlman joins The Stable Cyclist Podcast for a deep dive into the mental and physical demands of ultra-distance gravel racing.In the past year alone, Chris finished 3rd at Badlands, and earned top-10 results at Unbound XL and Traka 560 — three of the hardest ultra gravel events in the world.
We break down the mental side of going long, what it takes to stay consistent in multi-day races, and how he manages the emotional and psychological load of ultra-endurance.
Chris and I also get into the business side of pro cycling:– working with sponsors– navigating the industry– balancing content, racing, and results– what it takes to build long-term partnerships
We also talk about how the two major race series are shaping up for next year, and why Chris ultimately chose to step away from XCO racing to find his stride — and success — in ultra gravel.
If you’re into gravel racing, long-distance strategy, mindset, or building a career in endurance sports… this one is for you.
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/
Wark's Cycling Services - https://www.warkscyclingservices.com/
Gulo Composites - https://gulocomposites.com/
Flow Formulas - https://flowformulas.com/discount/JOHNPETER15
Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com
Dawn to Dusk - https://www.https://dawntodusk.bike/
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/
 

DANNY AWANG ON FILMING THE RISE OF CAM JONES | The Stable Cyclist Podcast

This week, JP sits down with Danny Awang — the powerhouse filmmaker behind Scott Bikes, Cam Jones, and one of the creative voices capturing EF at the Tour de France Femmes. Danny shares what it was like to follow Cam Jones during his explosive rise throughout the Lifetime Grand Prix, documenting the highs, lows, and surprising human moments that never make it into the final cut. With a front-row seat to some of the biggest storylines in gravel and world tour racing, Danny talks about the art of staying invisible behind the camera while capturing some of cycling’s most emotional and iconic scenes.
JP and Danny also dig into the deeper story of Danny’s entry into filmmaking — how an early experience with an incredibly accepting cycling community changed his life and set him on the creative path he’s on today. Together, they explore the importance of belonging, the mental side of creative work, and the joy of crafting stories that move people. And of course, the episode ends with the classic round of rapid-fire questions. If you love cycling media, filmmaking, or stories of unexpected opportunity, this conversation delivers.
Danny's Cam Jones Series: https://tinyurl.com/bdha5ssu
NorthStar Gravel Series Link: https://www.bikereg.com/northstar-gravel-series
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/
Wark's Cycling Services - https://www.warkscyclingservices.com/
Gulo Composites - https://gulocomposites.com/
Flow Formulas - https://flowformulas.com/discount/JOHNPETER15
Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com
Dawn to Dusk - https://www.https://dawntodusk.bike/
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/

GAS STATION SHOWDOWN (Feat. Dylan Johnson, Ian Boswell, Ben Delaney and more) | The Bootleg Miles

For the final Bootleg Miles episode of the year, JP dives into the ongoing debate from The Stable Cyclist Podcast and brings in answers from some of the biggest names in the sport: Gravel Hall-of-Famers Selene Yeager and Amanda Sheek, American Crit legend Brad Huff, gravel pros Justin McQuerry, Chase Wark and Dylan Johnson, WorldTour veterans Ian Boswell and Pete Stetina, TrainerRoad’s Jonathan Lee, journalist Ben Delaney, former US MTB National Champs Carson Beckett and Gordon Wadsworth and even the Holy Spirit of Gravel.
Along the way, JP breaks down rural gas station culture, his favorite stops in Minnesota and North Dakota, the genius of the “redneck ice sock,” and the simple joy of a cold Coke or a counter-top treat that definitely wasn’t made in a factory.
We’ll also take a ride out to Olson’s Service in Sentinel Butte, ND — a full-service station straight out of Cars and Route 66 history — and talk about why these places matter more than we think.
This episode wraps up a full season of gravel adventures, filmmaking, racing, and podcasting.Thanks for coming along for the ride — and remember: you are loved.
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/
Wark's Cycling Services - https://www.warkscyclingservices.com/
Gulo Composites - https://gulocomposites.com/
Flow Formulas - https://flowformulas.com/discount/JOHNPETER15
Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com
Dawn to Dusk - https://www.https://dawntodusk.bike/
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/
 

FlexFitbyJohn | From Bike Fitter to Internet Tire Testing Authority | John Karrasch | The Stable Cyclist Podcast

This week, JP sits down with John Karrasch, better known as FlexFitByJohn, whose gravel tire rolling resistance and speed tests have taken the cycling world by storm. What started as a behind-the-scenes bike fitting career in Birmingham, Alabama turned into a meteoric rise as John became the go-to resource for accurate, data-driven tire performance testing. In this episode, John talks about how his meticulous work with the Chung method built trust across the gravel community, eventually landing him on the Escape Collective podcast with Ronan McLaughlin and establishing him as one of the most respected voices in modern cycling tech.
JP and John go deeper into what it feels like to transition from relative obscurity to becoming a widely recognized figure in the sport. They talk about imposter syndrome, validation from Robert Chung himself, and how to stay grounded when your identity is shifting and your work suddenly reaches thousands of riders. This episode blends cycling science, personal growth, and the human side of going viral — a must-listen for anyone who loves gear, gravel, or a good story of unexpected success.
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/
Wark's Cycling Services - https://www.warkscyclingservices.com/
Gulo Composites - https://gulocomposites.com/
Flow Formulas - https://flowformulas.com/discount/JOHNPETER15
Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com
Dawn to Dusk - https://www.https://dawntodusk.bike/
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/
#GravelCycling #ChungMethod #StableCyclistPodcast

HANNAH SHELL: RACING, RV LIFE and EMPOWERING WOMEN | The Stable Cyclist Podcast

This week, JP sits down with Hannah Shell, a top-10 finisher in the Gravel Earth Series and one of the most recognizable riders in the pro gravel peloton. Hannah shares her winding path into gravel racing, how she balances high-level competition with her work at Gravel Worlds, and what it’s really like to pursue the sport at the elite level. Her insight into the evolving landscape of gravel offers a refreshing and honest look at what it takes to excel while staying grounded.
The conversation goes deeper into identity and the experience of being a six-foot-tall woman in a peloton where confidence and presence matter. Hannah talks about the power of strong female role models, the importance of women supporting women, and how she and her husband navigate full-time RV life throughout the racing season. They wrap up with classic rapid-fire questions, making this episode equal parts insightful, personal, and fun — a must-listen for fans of the growing gravel community.
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/
Wark's Cycling Services - https://www.warkscyclingservices.com/
Gulo Composites - https://gulocomposites.com/
Flow Formulas - https://flowformulas.com/discount/JOHNPETER15
Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com
Dawn to Dusk - https://www.https://dawntodusk.bike/
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/

JONATHAN LEE ON IDENTITY, FAITH, AND FINDING HIMSELF BEYOND THE BIKE | The Stable Cyclist Podcast

This week, JP welcomes Jonathan Lee, the widely recognized host of the TrainerRoad Podcast and a beloved voice in the cycling world. JP and Jonathan share a powerful full-circle moment — back in 2021, Jonathan interviewed JP on the Successful Athletes Podcast about living with Bipolar Disorder and rebuilding life through low-volume training. That conversation became a genesis point for JP, planting the seed that eventually grew into The Stable Cyclist Podcast. Now, Jonathan steps into the guest seat to reflect on his own path to TrainerRoad and how solving problems — for athletes, coworkers, and himself — has guided his career.
The conversation goes far beyond watts and workouts. JP and Jonathan dive into Jonathan’s life outside the studio: his work within his church community, managing training alongside a demanding life, and the deeper question of where identity is truly found. This is one of the most honest, grounded conversations you’ll hear — a look at the human behind one of cycling’s most recognizable podcast voices, exploring purpose, balance, vulnerability, and faith in a world that often values performance above everything else.
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/
Wark's Cycling Services - https://www.warkscyclingservices.com/
Gulo Composites - https://gulocomposites.com/
Flow Formulas - https://flowformulas.com/discount/JOHNPETER15
Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com
Dawn to Dusk - https://www.https://dawntodusk.bike/
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/