Ride To Success

How a Rejected Idea Changed the Future of Cycling ForeverFrom Swiss Trails to Turbo InnovationWhat does it take to change the way the world rides?In this episode of Ride to Success, host Pedro Couto Lopes sits down with Marco Sonderegger, Director of Turbo Product Experience at Specialized Bicycle Components, to uncover the story behind some of the most influential e-bikes ever made.From the quiet Swiss mountain roads of his childhood to leading the development of the Turbo Levo and Turbo S series, Marco shares the bold decisions, creative risks, and relentless curiosity that powered Specialized’s journey into the e-bike era.You’ll learn how resilience, innovation, and a deep love of cycling can fuel personal growth — and how Marco’s philosophy of “It’s you, only faster” can help you find flow both on and off the bike.Whether you’re an e-MTB enthusiast, a cycling entrepreneur, or simply someone who believes in pushing boundaries, this episode will inspire you to pedal forward with purpose.👉 Tune in to learn:• How Specialized pioneered modern e-bike technology• Why experimentation and failure drive true innovation• What the future of cycling looks like — from design to sustainability• Lessons in leadership and creativity from inside Specialized’s Turbo Innovation Lab🎙️ Ride to Success with Pedro Couto Lopes — where cycling meets creativity, technology, and human resilience.If today’s conversation inspired you to think differently about cycling, creativity, or how you ride through life — don’t stop here. Hit follow or subscribe to the Ride to Success Podcast so you never miss an episode. Every week, we bring you real stories from the people moving the world forward — one ride at a time.”________________________________________Listen to the podcast:-Social Links to Ride to Success:Follow Pedro Couto Lopes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-couto-lopes/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ridetosuccess/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridetosuccess/-Thanks for listening

In this powerful episode of the Ride to Success podcast, we sit down with Jon Dutton OBE, Chief Executive of British Cycling, to explore what it means to lead with purpose in the face of uncertainty, rebuild trust in sport, and create long-term impact from the top of one of the UK’s most iconic cycling organisations.Jon opens up about the incredible challenges British Cycling faced—from commercial breakdowns and reputational pressure to rebuilding the National Championships in just 130 days. He reflects on leading through crisis, negotiating over 175 contracts under pressure, and why failure is a daily part of healthy leadership.Whether you're in sport, business, or community leadership, this episode is packed with insights on:• Leading during extreme uncertainty• Building a values-first sporting culture• Fostering resilience and long-term purpose• Why “just doing it” sometimes beats planning• The power of sport to create a fairer societyRide to Success is your go-to podcast for entrepreneurial stories in cycling — from business to tech, sport to community. Join us to be inspired by stories that move you forward.🔔 Don’t forget to follow, like, comment, and subscribefor more conversations with cycling’s most inspiring leaders, entrepreneurs,and changemakers.Social Links to Ride to Success:Follow Pedro Couto Lopes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-couto-lopes/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ridetosuccess/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridetosuccess/-Thanks for listening#RideToSuccess

Change is coming to the cycling industry, but are we truly listening?In this powerful live recording, Ride to Success brings together three women driving systemic transformation across the global cycling ecosystem.Angela Craft Williams (Global Talent & Inclusion Leader at SRAM) shares insights on Women in Leadership and how intentional inclusion can create lasting cultural change.Dr. Fiona Spotswood (University of Bristol) explores Media Representation and Visibility, revealing how storytelling shapes who feels welcome in cycling culture.Claudia Glass (Founder & CEO, Swijin’) discusses Inclusive Product Development and the power of designing with — not for — women.Together, they unpack what it will take to build a more inclusive future across Cultural Ecosystems and Systemic Change, asking the question: What will progress look like by 2026 and beyond?Whether you’re a cyclist, leader, or changemaker, this conversation will leave you inspired to rethink how equity, design, and visibility can reshape the sport we love.Key Topics:• Women in Cycling and Leadership• Intentional Inclusion Strategies• Media Representation and Visibility• Inclusive Product Development• Cultural Ecosystems and Systemic Change• The Future of Cycling: 2026 and Beyond👉 Listen and follow Ride To Success Follow Pedro Couto Lopes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-couto-lopes/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ridetosuccess/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridetosuccess/

What does it take to build one of Europe’s most successful cycling businesses from scratch? In this episode of the Ride To Success Podcast, host Pedro sits down with Louise Laker, co-founder of Eat Sleep Cycle, to explore the extraordinary journey of building one of Europe’s most innovative cycling hubs.Louise shares how she and her partner turned seven rental bikes and a credit card into a thriving cycling community in Girona and Málaga. From surviving the toughest challenges in the cycling industry to reshaping how bike shops operate, her story is filled with lessons in resilience, diversification, and leadership.We also dive into Louise’s experience as a female founder in a male-dominated industry, the role of cycling tourism in transforming local economies, and the values that keep Eat Sleep Cycle connected to its community.Whether you’re a cyclist, entrepreneur, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation will give you tools and motivation to keep moving forward.🎧 Follow the Ride To Success Podcast for more stories of cycling, business, and inspiration.👉 Listen to the full episode of Ride To Success featuring Louise Laker — available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and everywhere you listen.Social Links to Ride to Success:Follow Pedro Couto Lopes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-couto-lopes/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ridetosuccess/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridetosuccess/-Thanks for listening

In this episode of Ride To Success, we sit down with Martina Russo, founder and CEO of The Action Sports Translator — the world’s first and only full-scale translation and content agency for the outdoor sports industry. Broadcasting from the Alps, Martina shares the powerful and deeply personal story behind how she built a global company while recovering from complete burnout.Martina opens up about:Her journey from freelance translator to global founder with 600+ linguistsThe burnout that nearly broke her — and how mountain biking helped her healBuilding a business with no blueprint, funding, or formal planHow she leverages AI and storytelling to help outdoor brands go globalWhy cycling and being in nature saved her, personally and professionallyThe lessons she learned about resilience, leadership, and doing business on your own termsWhether you’re a cycling enthusiast, aspiring entrepreneur, or someone seeking inspiration to reclaim your energy and direction, this episode delivers a raw, insightful, and empowering conversation.👉 Listen until the end to discover how Martina went from panic attacks at her laptop to becoming a leader in both sport and business — all from a tiny mountain village.🎙️ Ride To Success is your destination for entrepreneurial stories in cycling and beyond — blending sport, tech, lifestyle, and community for a more active and inspired life.🛎️ Follow Ride To Success for more real conversations with cycling entrepreneurs, tech innovators, and community leaders.Listen to the podcast:-Social Links to Ride to Success:Follow Pedro Couto Lopes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-couto-lopes/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ridetosuccess/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridetosuccess/-Thanks for listening#RideToSuccess

Charlie Kingswood - co-founder of Hafod TrailsWhen a devastating storm nearly wiped Hafod Trails off the map, most people would have given up. But not Charlie Kingswood. In this episode of Ride to Success, Charlie shares the incredible journey of building Britain’s most welcoming bike park — a true family-run labour of love set in the heart of Wales.From uprooting her life for a rural dream, to rallying her family through fallen trees and financial strain, Charlie reveals how resilience, innovation, and community spirit turned disaster into triumph. Learn how the Hafod Trails team built five trails in ten weeks, created a one-of-a-kind uplift system, and won UK Trail of the Year, all while fostering inclusion and belonging for riders aged three to eighty-two.Whether you’re a mountain biker, an entrepreneur, or someone chasing your purpose, this episode is packed with insights on perseverance, teamwork, and the power of positivity.Listen now to discover how Hafod Trails went from storm damage to award-winning success — and why it’s redefining what it means to be a truly welcoming place to ride.Social Links to Ride to Success:Follow Pedro Couto Lopes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-couto-lopes/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ridetosuccess/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridetosuccess/-Thanks for listening#RideToSuccess

What happens when you leave a high-profile media career to chase an idea everyone says is impossible?In this episode of Ride to Success, we sit down with Dom Cotton, former BBC journalist and co-founder of Newlane, the cycling startup behind a foldable commuter helmet that took seven years to build — and nearly didn’t happen.At age 50, Dom took a leap into unfamiliar territory: hardware innovation. No engineering background. No product design experience. Just one goal — to create a helmet that made cycling safer, simpler, and more accessible for everyday riders.Dom shares:• How he handled years of rejection from investors and manufacturers• What kept him going when the helmet “couldn’t be made”• How a personal problem turned into a Red Dot Award-winning product• What cycling taught him about purpose, resilience, and reinvention• Why you don’t need all the answers to start something meaningfulThis is a story about starting over, building with purpose, and proving the doubters wrong — one ride at a time.🔗 Listen now and get inspired to ride your own path.Social Links to Ride to Success:Follow Pedro Couto Lopes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-couto-lopes/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ridetosuccess/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridetosuccess/-Thanks for listening#RideToSuccess

How Kate Strong Broke 3 World Records, Transformed Her Life, and Rode for the Planet | Ride to Success PodcastIn this inspiring episode of the Ride to Success podcast, host Pedro Couto Lopes sits down with world record-breaking cyclist, climate advocate, and behavioural change leader Kate Strong. From a painful breakup to setting 3 Guinness World Records on a static bike, Kate’s journey is a powerful example of how sport can transform lives, build resilience, and spark global impact.Kate shares:• How she turned emotional trauma into athletic triumph• The mindset secrets behind ultra-endurance performance• Her bamboo bike journey across Britain and what she learned from 50+ climate communities• Why collaboration, not competition, is the new success model• Practical behavioural shifts you can make today to ride toward your purpose🎧 Whether you’re a cyclist, entrepreneur, or someone looking for inspiration—this episode will move you.📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who’s ready to ride with purpose.Social Links to Ride to Success:Follow Pedro Couto Lopes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-couto-lopes/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ridetosuccess/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridetosuccess/-Thanks for listening#RideToSuccess

In this special solo episode of Ride to Success, host Pedro Couto Lopes reflects on his journey so far — 74 episodes since launching in February 2024.Podcasting isn’t easy. Behind the mic, there have been highs, lows, doubts, and incredible opportunities. From interviewing cycling leaders to capturing deeply personal stories of transformation, the common thread has always been the bike and its power to inspire change.In this episode, Pedro speaks honestly about:The challenges of being a one-person creator 🎧The lessons learned from 70+ unique guests 🚴Why the bike is more than transport — it’s a tool for purpose, creativity, and resilience 💡The gratitude he feels for every single listener ❤️This is a heartfelt thank-you to everyone who has tuned in, supported, and believed in Ride to Success. And it’s also a look ahead at what’s next — more inspiring guests, more conversations, and even live events in the future.If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to keep going as a podcaster, this is the episode for you.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast if it resonates with you.Listen to the podcast:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XhcMcW28Tuk7Vr4XK47TLApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ride-to-success/id1726829754YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtzjN9DhQi18kpAl-h6fuMA-Social Links to Ride to Success:Follow Pedro Couto Lopes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-couto-lopes/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ridetosuccess/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridetosuccess/-Thanks for listening#RideToSuccess

Carina Hamel of Bivo - Stainless Steel BikeWater Bottles - For Sport, Cycling and RunWhat do moldy water bottles, elite skiing, and NASA engineers have in common? Meet Carina Hamel, former professional Nordic skier turned entrepreneur and co-founder of Bivo, the stainless steel cycling bottle that’s transforming the way riders hydrate.In this episode of Ride to Success, Carina shares her incredible journey—from racing with Team USA to launching a groundbreaking product disrupting the plastic-dominated cycling industry. She opens up about:• The mindset shift from athlete to business leader and mom• The overlooked health risks of plastic and the science behind Bivo’s clean design• Working with a former NASA engineer to develop a patented gravity-fed flow system• Her global insights from product development in China and living in Norway• Breaking down cycling’s barriers around gender, elitism, and access• Building a brand rooted in sustainability, fun, and real communityWhether you're a cyclist, startup founder, or someone who values health-conscious design—Carina’s story will inspire you to rethink the way we build, lead, and ride.Follow Ride to Success for more conversations at the intersection of cycling, innovation, and purpose.Social Links to Ride to Success:Follow Pedro Couto Lopes:https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-couto-lopes/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ridetosuccess/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridetosuccess/-Thanks for listening#RideToSuccess

Originally published in August 2024Marion's advocacy for women's cycling and epilepsy awareness remains a driving force in her life. Her efforts to secure professional status for female cyclists in France and her charity work through the "La Marion Clignet" ride exemplify her commitment to these causes. "Sport has really helped me manage epilepsy," she says, highlighting the importance of physical activity in improving health and well-being.Throughout her career and entrepreneurial journey, Marion has faced numerous challenges, from battling gender inequality in sports to overcoming personal health struggles. Yet, her resilience has always shone through. "Every step back is two steps forward," she asserts, emphasizing the importance of perseverance.For young women aspiring to enter the world of sports entrepreneurship, Marion offers this advice: "If you want something bad enough, you can control how you get there. The only thing that stops you from realizing a dream is yourself." Her journey is a powerful reminder that with determination and the right support, barriers can be broken and new paths can be forged.Marion Clignet's story is one of transformation, from an athlete overcoming personal and societal challenges to an entrepreneur and advocate making a lasting impact on the world of women's sports. Her legacy continues to inspire and empower future generations to pursue their dreams with courage and conviction.________________________________Marion Clignet faced challenges as a female cyclist in a male-dominated sport and fought for equal pay and opportunities. Listen to her story in the Ride To Success Podcast with Pedro Couto LopesSocial Links to Ride to Success:Follow Pedro Couto Lopes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-couto-lopes/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ridetosuccess/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridetosuccess/-Thanks for listening#ridetosuccess

Bold, Fearless, and Inspiring: Iris Slappendel's Journey from Professional Cyclist to Designer and Advocate+++++++++++++++++++++Originally published in August 2024+++++++++++++++++++++In the latest episode of the Ride To Success podcast, former professional cyclist Iris Slappendel shared the inspiration and vision behind her innovative cycling apparel brand, I R I S – I Ride In Style. Iris's journey into the design world began during her teenage years when she started creating her clothes out of personal necessity and passion. However, her dissatisfaction with existing women’s cycling gear motivated her to launch her brand after retiring in 2016. "I wanted to make something that I wanted to wear," she explained, emphasizing her desire to create high-quality, stylish, and comfortable apparel that was missing from the market.One of the standout aspects of I R I S is its bold and colourful design philosophy. Iris draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including art, fashion, and her travels. "Colors are a thread in all my designs," she mentioned, highlighting her preference for starting with a specific colour palette. This approach ensures that each piece is functional and reflects her vibrant personality and the diverse identities of women worldwide. Her commitment to authenticity and personal expression shines through in every collection, making I R I S a brand that encourages women to embrace their individuality on the bike.I'm Creating an inclusive space for women to ride and be respected and valued.Social Links to Ride to Success:Follow Pedro Couto Lopes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-couto-lopes/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ridetosuccess/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridetosuccess/-Thanks for listening#ridetosuccess

Looking Ahead: How Cassondra Spring and Liv Cycling Are Shaping Women's CyclingCassondra's vision for the future of Liv Cycling and women's cycling is ambitious and inspiring. She envisions a more inclusive future where cyclists of all backgrounds feel welcomed and supported. Liv Cycling's grassroots programs, ambassador initiatives, and high-profile partnerships like the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift are all steps towards this goal.Cassondra Spring's leadership at Liv Cycling is a testament to the power of passion, community, and strategic vision. Her work is shaping a more inclusive and supportive future for women's cycling, one pedal stroke at a time. As the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift continues to grow in prominence, the world will see the extraordinary impact of Liv Cycling's mission and Cassondra's dedication.Creating an Inclusive CommunityCassondra's personal passion for cycling is deeply intertwined with Liv Cycling's mission to welcome more women and girls into the sport. "I believe that anybody that wants to bike belongs," she stated. Her journey into cycling began in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, where she found a supportive community through local races. This sense of belonging and support has driven her to create similar opportunities for others through Liv Cycling.As a leader, Cassondra practices strengths-based and servant leadership, focusing on empowering her team and clearing paths for their visibility. She is also an active mentor, participating in programs like Uplift and the Futurist Project. Cassondra believes in the power of mentorship to overcome mentees' challenges like imposter syndrome and to support women in achieving their highest potential.Liv Cycling fosters a supportive community by partnering with local ambassadors worldwide. These ambassadors organize clinics, rides, and events to engage women at all skill levels. Whether it's gravel riding in Poland or building cycling communities in China, Liv's global ambassador program ensures that women everywhere feel welcomed and supported in their cycling journeys. Cassondra's approach to building partnerships within the cycling industry is intentional and strategic. She emphasized the importance of working with community catalysts like Ayesha McGowan, member of the Black Foxes, who advocates for more people of color and women of color in the sport. By supporting these champions, Liv Cycling amplifies their impact and drives meaningful change.Social Links to Ride to Success:Follow Pedro Couto Lopes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-couto-lopes/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ridetosuccess/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridetosuccess/-Thanks for listening#ridetosuccess

The driving force behind Tour de France Femmes avec ZwiftKate Veronneau's role in championing women's cyclingIn a conversation with Pedro Couto Lopes in the Ride To Success podcast, Kate shares her journey from collegiate basketball to competitive cycling and her vision for the future of women's cycling.Zwift's Role in Championing Women's CyclingUnder her guidance, Zwift sponsors premier events like the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift and Paris-Roubaix Femmes, significantly elevating women's cycling on the global stage. These partnerships increase visibility and underscore the importance of brand investment in the growth of women's cycling. Veronneau believes that sustained investment and media coverage are crucial for advancing gender parity in the sport."The races themselves have been absolutely incredible. Like just, you know, nail biting, so exciting, new breakout performances, heroic stages, everything that you'd want at Paris -Roubaix and at Tour de France, we're seeing on the women's side. And, you know, for those of us that have been long time fans of women's cycling, we've known it's there. The characters, the action, the talent. Those breakout performances, but nobody was able to see it."From the rise in e-sports to the growing demand for more inclusive cycling communities, Veronneau's work is shaping the future of the sport. She emphasizes the power of technology in creating safe and accessible spaces for women cyclists and urges the cycling industry to embrace diversity and innovation."It starts with investment. It really does. Because with that investment comes more visibility, which comes with higher valuation, which then attracts more investment. So I think that's what's really going to unlock opportunities for women cyclists to get into the sport and for women to pursue their dreams of becoming pros."Social Links to Ride to Success:Follow Pedro Couto Lopes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-couto-lopes/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ridetosuccess/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridetosuccess/Thanks for listening#Cycling #Podcast #RideToSuccess

Ride to Success Podcast | Guest: Daisy LuckerShe’s a two-time Guinness World Record holder. She’s rowed across the Atlantic. Circumnavigated Great Britain. And now? She’s about to cycle around the world — with no job, no home, and no turning back.In this powerful episode of the Ride to Success Podcast, Daisy Lucker shares the behind-the-scenes truth of extreme endurance challenges, the mental shift that changed her life, and why her next adventure might be her hardest yet.From rowing 3,000 miles with no toilet or privacy, to discovering the unexpected clarity that comes from solo bike rides, Daisy opens up about courage, identity, and what happens when you say yes to the unknown.Whether you're a cyclist, an adventurer, or just someone craving a mindset shift, this conversation is packed with takeaways to ride more, live braver, and rethink success on your own terms.In This Episode:• The emotional toll and triumph of rowing the Atlantic• How Daisy trained her mind more than her body• What it really means to "quit everything" and cycle the world• Redefining success outside traditional career paths• Practical wisdom for getting unstuck and chasing bold ideasJoin the Ride to Success Podcast community, where we spotlight entrepreneurs, changemakers, and everyday riders using the bike to live bigger, bolder lives.Subscribe, rate & share to help others ride their own path to success.🎧 Listen to the Full EpisodePodcast available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube