Bike Life

Celebrating International Women’s MonthWhat’s stopping you from packing a bag and hitting the road alone?To kick off the first of two special episodes for International Women’s Month, we’re chatting with Helen Dainty, Eliza Sampey, and Calliopé Georgousi, three incredible women who traded their "what-ifs" for handlebars and open roads.From the rugged Australian outback to soul-searching across Europe, these riders get real about the highs and lows of solo touring. It’s not all sunsets and smooth pavement—we’re talking mechanical mishaps, heartbreak, and conquering that inner voice that says "I can't."What’s inside:The Leap: Overcoming the fear of the unknown and wild camping for the first time.Trail Grit: Real talk on handling repairs and minimizing your gear (less is definitely more!).Mindset: How to build confidence one mile at a time and why the world is way friendlier than the news makes it out to be.Rapid-Fire Tips: Quick advice for your first overnight trip or your next big expedition. You don’t need to be an expert to start; you just need to start. The world is more welcoming than it seems, and sometimes the biggest challenge is simply believing you can do it.Catch up with Helen Dainty on Instagram at @hels.on.wheels, on YouTube @helsonwheels, and connect on Patreon at hels on wheelsCatch up with Eliza Sampey on Instagram at @elizasampey, on her website Eliza Sampey PT, DPT, and follow her on Substack.Catch up with Calliopé Georgousi on Instagram at @calliope.cyclesJoin our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook.Watch this and all episodes of the Bike Life Podcast on YouTube.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

Ever wondered what happens when you trade your midlife routine for two years on two wheels? Host Jerry Kopack is joined by Mark Graham & Ellie O’Byrne, an incredible Irish couple currently pedaling their way across the globe.From desert heat to mountain peaks, they’re proving that the best way to see the world is at a "human pace." We dive into the nitty-gritty of how they made it happen, including a very cool double-decker bus side hustle and the lessons they’ve picked up from the strangers-turned-friends they've met along the way.In this episode:The "Why Now?": Overcoming the fear of waiting too long to chase the dream.Funding the Adventure: How they used a creative bus project to fuel their journey.Life on the Road: The best meals, the toughest climbs, and the reality of living out of panniers.The Big Takeaway: Why the world is way more welcoming than you’ve been told.Whether you’re planning your own epic tour or just dreaming of one while you sip your morning coffee, this conversation is packed with humor, heart, and plenty of "seize the day" energy.Catch up with Mark & Ellie on Substack at @spokeyokes and on their podcast, Spoke Yokes: Cycling Around the World, available on all listening platforms.Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. Watch this and all episodes of the Bike Life Podcast on YouTube.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

What do you do after finishing uni? If you’re Coline Berret, you skip the "real world" job and spend four years pedaling across the globe instead.We’re diving into an epic 35,000-kilometer journey that spans 29 countries. This isn't just a stats dump, though; it’s a deep look at what happens when you swap a career ladder for a bicycle and an open mind.In our conversation, we chat about:The Big Detour: Why taking the path less traveled (literally) is the ultimate education.Radical Hospitality: From cozy saunas with strangers to the incredible kindness of the global community.The Traveling Companion: The story behind the iconic Muppet tagging along for the ride.Life in the Slow Lane: How 29 countries and four years on the road can completely reshape your worldview.Whether you’re dreaming of your own cross-continental trek or just need a dose of "humanity is actually pretty great" vibes, this conversation is for you. Grab a brew and join us in the slow lane!Catch up with Coline:Instagram: @ecolineroule Website: ÉCOline rouleYouTube: @ecolineroule2648 Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. Watch this and all episodes of the Bike Life Podcast on YouTube.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

What started as a spontaneous one-year bike tour across the U.S. turned into a thirty-year odyssey for Bob and Claire Rogers. In this episode, they take us along for the ride through the Australian outback, the winds of Iceland, and everywhere in between. You'll hear how they navigated remote deserts with broken gear and relied on intuition to find their way through foreign lands, proving that a little humor and a lot of adaptability go a long way when you're living life on two wheels.Beyond the logistics of long-distance cycling, Bob and Claire share heartfelt stories about the global community of travelers and the unique bonds formed through hosting others. It’s a beautiful look at how bike travel acts as a bridge between cultures, fostering resilience and curiosity at every turn, and how a bit of courage can take you where you least expect.Catch up with Bob and Claire on their blog, New Bohemians.Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. Watch this and all episodes of the Bike Life Podcast on YouTube.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

Sarah Morgan and Josh Sutton-Ziaian set out to cycle from the UK to India, but their adventure didn't go as planned, and that's what makes their story so good. Between health issues, winter cycling, and countless unexpected detours, they learned to let go of the original plan and embrace whatever came their way. Volunteering in remote villages and crashing with locals through Warmshowers, they discovered that the best parts of bike touring aren't about reaching your destination, they're about the people you meet and the moments that surprise you along the way.If you've ever been curious about ditching comfort for adventure or just want to hear what makes people choose a slower, more intentional way of traveling, this conversation will inspire you to grab a bike and start your own journey.Catch up with Sarah & Josh:YouTube: Josh & Sarah RideInstagram: @joshandsarahrideFacebook: Josh and Sarah Ride Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. Watch this and all episodes of the Bike Life Podcast on YouTube.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

Ever wonder what happens when you combine cross-country cycling, charity work, and a love of soccer? Follow Jessica Lawrence’s epic journey from Connecticut to San Diego, raising money for youth sports and catching professional matches along the way. It's part travelogue, part fundraiser, and entirely powered by two wheels and determination.From chance encounters with strangers to moments of personal growth on the open road, this conversation captures what makes long-distance bike touring so special. Whether you're planning your own adventure or need a dose of inspiration to do something bold, Jessica’s story will give you plenty of reasons to get pedaling.Catch up with Jessica on her website Pedal to the Pitch, and follow her on Instagram at @jessicasarahlawJoin our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Executive Director Tahverlee directly at Tahverlee@Warmshowers.org.Watch this and all episodes of the Bike Life Podcast on YouTube.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

After spending six years living in Tanzania, Naomi Rouse and her family decided their return to the UK would be anything but ordinary…they'd cycle home from Berlin to Bristol. Discover what drew them to Tanzania in the first place, from the stunning landscapes and warm local hospitality to the everyday adventures of village life, chapati dinners, and learning new languages on the fly.Naomi shares how embracing simplicity and discomfort, whether navigating dusty roads in Africa or planning a multi-country bike journey across Europe, brought her family closer together and reshaped their perspective on travel and connection. If you're curious about trading comfort for adventure or need inspiration to chart your own unconventional path, this conversation offers both the grit and the humor to get you moving.Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Executive Director Tahverlee directly at Tahverlee@Warmshowers.org.Watch this and all episodes of the Bike Life Podcast on YouTube.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

What happens when you combine the spontaneity of bike touring with the expressive soul of a trumpet? Follow Ines Hartmuth’s unique journey through southern France, where music, movement, and intuition replace rigid plans and routines. It's a story about breaking free from everyday expectations and discovering what emerges when you travel without a fixed itinerary…from playing trumpet for cows in the countryside to connecting with strangers along the way.Explore how stepping outside comfort zones creates space for creativity, personal growth, and genuine human connection. Whether you're seeking a different rhythm in life or curious about what it means to be truly present, Ines offers inspiration for embracing uncertainty and finding meaning in each moment on the road.Catch up with Ines on Instagram at @ines_hartmuth and on her websites, Ines Hartmuth - German and Ines Hartmuth - French.Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Executive Director Tahverlee directly at Tahverlee@Warmshowers.org.Watch this and all episodes of the Bike Life Podcast on YouTube.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

Follow Eliza Sampey, an adventurer and physical therapist who has turned van living and bikepacking into a lifestyle spanning the North Cascades, Pakistan, Guatemala, and beyond. She shares stories of navigating remote singletrack with pack rafts, crossing international borders by bike, and using simple solutions to keep gear secure, proving that resourcefulness and simplicity are key to authentic adventure travel.From providing humanitarian aid in post-hurricane Puerto Rico to wild camping under the stars, Eliza offers practical wisdom on staying physically resilient during long journeys and building community on the road. Whether you're an experienced bikepacker or just beginning to explore unconventional travel, discover how slow travel and preparation can transform your relationship with wild places and help you tackle any challenge that comes your way.Catch up with Eliza on Instagram at @elizasampey, on her website Eliza Sampey PT, DPT, and follow her on Substack.Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Executive Director Tahverlee directly at Tahverlee@Warmshowers.org.Watch this and all episodes of the Bike Life Podcast on YouTube.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

Tired of wrestling cardboard boxes through airports after a bike tour? Then Bikeflights, a cyclist-founded shipping solution designed specifically for touring cyclists and event-goers, has the answer. Sue George, VP of Bikeflights, shows us how easy it is to ship bikes, e-bikes, wheels, and gear with support from a bike-loving team that understands the unique challenges of traveling with your ride.Discover practical packing tips, shipping options through local bike shops or directly to hotels, and insights into how the bike shipping industry has evolved. Whether you're planning your next cross-country adventure or heading to an event, this conversation will help you travel smarter and hassle-free.Visit Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed! For a limited time, use promo code WARMSHOWERS to get 10% off your first shipment.Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Tahverlee directly at Tahverlee@Warmshowers.org.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

What does it take to circle the globe by bicycle? Follow Ted Eliason’s four-year solo journey across 56 countries and over 82,000 kilometers. A journey propelled by a desire to escape the corporate world and experience life at pedal-stroke speed. From sandstorms in Kazakhstan to chaotic Indian roads, he shares stories of unexpected kindness, raw challenges, and the transformation that comes from pushing far beyond your comfort zone. Rich with reflections on fear, resilience, and human connection, Ted’s story reveals how long-distance cycling can fundamentally shift your perspective. Whether it's tackling language barriers in Latin America or finding comfort on unfamiliar roads, he reminds us that the world is both bigger and more welcoming than we imagine.  Catch up with Ted on Facebook, Instagram at @bikingthebluemarble, and on YouTube at @tedeliason3483 Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Tahverlee directly at Tahverlee@Warmshowers.org.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

Follow Tyler Epstein, a high school teacher and coach, who embarked on his first cross-country bike tour, riding nearly 2,700 miles from Missouri to the Oregon coast in less than a month. Trading his usual coaching duties for a lightweight gravel bike, he battled mountain sleet, equipment failures, and tight deadlines while discovering how athletic grit and adaptability fuel epic adventures on two wheels.Beyond the physical challenges, Tyler discovers the transformative power of bike travel, where unexpected encounters with kind strangers and personal breakthroughs become as memorable as the landscapes themselves. It's a compelling reminder that some of life's most profound lessons happen when we venture beyond our comfort zones and trust in the journey ahead.Catch up with Tyler on Instagram at @tysrides and on YouTube at Ty’s Rides.Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Tahverlee directly at Tahverlee@Warmshowers.org.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

Would you leave everything behind to cycle through 35 countries—even if you weren’t a cyclist? That’s exactly what Simon Brain and his fiancée did, turning a bold idea into a three-year journey across the world.They share how curiosity carried them from wild camping and cultural surprises to tense encounters with border patrols. Along the way, they discovered resilience, deepened their partnership, and experienced the generosity of strangers. From the sensory chaos of India to Mongolia’s vast silence and the friendly roads of the U.S., every mile reshaped their understanding of adventure.Their story is a reminder that you don’t need all the answers to begin—you just need the courage to leap, pedal forward, and trust the road ahead.Catch up with Simon on Instagram at @weridebikesplaces and on YouTube at We Ride Bikes Places.Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Tahverlee directly at Tahverlee@Warmshowers.org.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

What drives someone to cycle from Italy to Iran—and back again—through more than twenty countries?   Matthias Schwarz takes us on a journey sparked by friendship, shaped by world events, and enriched by the connections made along the way. From Balkan fountains to Iranian hospitality, every mile reveals both striking similarities and unique differences across cultures.Along the route, challenges and rewards unfold in places few cyclists ever visit, from Saudi deserts to bustling Middle Eastern streets. Stories of generosity, resilience, and the kindness of strangers illustrate how traveling by bike can transform perspectives and cultivate a genuine sense of community. Matthias has written a book called Persian Wine. Get your copy HERE.Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Tahverlee directly at Tahverlee@Warmshowers.org.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

Ever wonder what it’s like to cycle 60,000 kilometers across continents with nothing but a shoestring budget and a love for simplicity? Isaak Vanthomme takes us on a five-year journey from icy Canadian roads to the jungles and highlands of Central and South America—facing challenges, embracing minimalism, and forging unforgettable connections along the way.Packed with stories of adventure, companionship, and sustainability, this episode shows how traveling by bike opens doors to local communities, unexpected friendships, and a deeper connection with the world around you. Whether you’re a traveler, a cyclist, or simply curious about living fully with less, this episode will inspire you to slow down, adapt, and embrace the journey.Catch up with Isaak at @worldofjacky on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Tahverlee directly at Tahverlee@Warmshowers.org.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

What happens when the freedom of cycling becomes both a necessity and a joy? Discover the transformative journey of Jeffrey McElfresh, who is living with CMT1A, a condition that challenges walking but unlocks freedom on two wheels. From conquering multi-state rides to starring in a PBS documentary, he showcases the resilience and joy found in cycling despite physical challenges. Jeffrey shares tales of biking along the Ohio River, solo cross-country adventures, and the community support of Warmshowers. Celebrating the overcoming of barriers, the healing influence of nature, and the pursuit of passions despite adversity, this conversation serves as a powerful reminder that the journey itself, with all its obstacles and triumphs, is where the true magic lies.Watch Jeffrey’s Journey, the inspiring PBS documentary. Catch up with Jeffrey on Instagram @juicymelt_ and Facebook at JuicyMelt.Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Tahverlee directly at Tahverlee@Warmshowers.org.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

Discover the journey of Paul Edkins and Vivien Metairie, two solo cyclists who embarked from Europe with dreams of reaching South Africa, only to find unexpected friendship and adventure in Ethiopia.From navigating bustling cities and challenging terrains to sharing stories over campfires, their experiences shine a light on the joy of unplanned encounters and mutual support during the toughest stretches of the journey.Their story is a celebration of resilience, cultural discovery, and the profound impact of slowing down to savor the human experience. Proving that the real magic of bicycle touring is not just about reaching a destination, but the friendships and wisdom gathered along the way.Catch up with Paul on Instagram at @holidayspirit99 and with Vivien @vivien.touringJoin our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Tahverlee directly at Tahverlee@Warmshowers.org.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

Embark on an inspiring journey with Calliopé Georgousi, who traveled across 12 European countries, from the UK to Greece. Along the way, they navigated diverse landscapes, unexpected route changes, and found a balance between solitude and community. Through moments of vulnerability, resilience, and personal growth, the adventure showcases the transformative power of traveling alone and the profound connections forged with fellow cyclists and hosts.Calliopé’s journey also offers practical tips for aspiring tourers, such as staying light on the road and coping with injuries, while emphasizing the importance of listening to your own rhythm. It celebrates the transformative impact of bike travel and serves as a reminder that the road is filled with beauty, unpredictability, and unforgettable moments.Catch up with Calliopé on Instagram at @calliope.cyclesJoin our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Tahverlee directly at Tahverlee@Warmshowers.org.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

Discover the incredible journey of PL and Kristen Meindertsma, who are cycling across five continents over five years for five causes, aiming to raise $2.5 million for organizations in business, sports, and education. Beyond exploring the world, their mission reflects a deeper quest for purpose, highlighting the impact of meaningful connections and the importance of giving back. PL and Kristen share the challenges and rewards of long-distance bike travel, from planning routes across diverse terrains to navigating the dynamics of touring as a couple. Follow along as they share stories of charity visits, cultural encounters, and the unexpected joys of community, both on the road and at home. Their story serves as a powerful reminder that adventure and generosity can unite to inspire us all to stay present, embrace curiosity, and contribute to positive change.Catch up with PL and Kristen:On their website, Cycle 5 to SurviveOn Instagram at @cycle5tosurviveOn TikTok at @cyclefivetosurviveOn Facebook at Cycle 5 To SurviveOn YouTube at Cycle 5 to Survive.Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Tahverlee directly at Tahverlee@Warmshowers.org.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

Discover what happens when a passion for travel evolves into a lifelong adventure on two wheels. Join Helen Dainty, a.k.a. hels on wheels, who has pedaled through 90 countries over nearly two decades. She shares tales from remote Australian outback trails to vibrant cities like Barcelona. Explore the realities of long-distance bicycle touring—from camping under the stars to memorable encounters with locals, and the daily joys and challenges of the open road.Discover how embracing autonomy, budget travel, and community support has led to a rich and unconventional lifestyle centered on exploration. Gain practical tips for sustaining extended journeys, insights into cross-cultural hospitality, and reflections on resilience in adversity. This episode celebrates the freedom of simplicity and inspires listeners with the boundless possibilities that await those who keep pedaling forward.Catch up with Helen on Instagram at @hels.on.wheels, on YouTube @helsonwheels, and connect on Patreon at hels on wheelsJoin our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Tahverlee directly at Tahverlee@Warmshowers.org.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!