Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast

Stop Overthinking MTB Features! Trail Intuition and Technical Climbing Tips [RNL S2, Ep 50] Jul 22, 2026 3697 Ride new trail features with confidence as we dive into trail intuition, flow state, and when to trust your first instinct instead of stopping to overthink every obstacle. We also break down technical mountain bike climbing, covering gear selection, traction, high vs. low cadence, lifts, logovers, and the J-hop technique to help you conquer more technical terrain. Along the way, we debate what to

Ride With Certainty! The MTB Mindset That Unlocks Confidence and Flow [RNL S2, Ep 49] Jul 15, 2026 3728 Ride with certainty, not doubt, and learn how to tune into your bike, body, and the trail instead of distracting thoughts when tackling difficult MTB features, technical climbs, jumps, and new trail sections. In this episode of the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast, we dive into MTB mindset, confidence, visualization, flow state, body awareness, muscle activation, coaching, and trusting your skills so

MTB Progress Stalled? The Hidden Power of Variety and Riding Without Pressure [RNL S2, Ep 48] Jul 8, 2026 3499 Mountain bike progression isn't linear—and the secret to riding with more confidence, flow, and fun is embracing variety while letting go of pressure and expectations. In this episode of the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast, we share MTB skills, jump tips, mindset coaching, confidence builders, and why trusting the process on the trail (and in life) leads to your biggest breakthroughs. We also dive in

Break Your MTB Progression Plateau! Dave Davidson's Skills and Mobility Secrets [RNL S2, Ep 47] Jul 1, 2026 3832 Ready to break through your mountain bike progression plateau? This week on the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast, we're joined by Dave Davidson of MTB Academy to dive into MTB skills, mobility, mindset, body positioning, confidence, flow state, cornering, jumping, and the movement patterns that help riders progress faster and ride with more freedom. Learn why hip mobility, core activation, and functi

Just Get Into It! Turn MTB Frustration Into Flow, Confidence and Fun! [RNL S2, Ep 46] Jun 24, 2026 3543 Train smarter, ride with more flow, and discover why sometimes less is more on the mountain bike and in life! In this episode of the Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast, we dive into MTB fitness, climbing motivation, mental focus, confidence, and how letting go of fear can unlock your skills and help you ride more centered and faster. We also talk jump technique, technical descending, MTB imposter syndrom

Anything Is Possible! MTB Visualization, Confidence and Flow for Your Next Ride [RNL S2, Ep 45] Jun 17, 2026 3360 Mountain biking is the perfect sport to prove that anything is possible, and this episode of the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast explores the mindset shifts that turn fear into confidence and help riders trust their skills. "Know thyself" doesn't mean avoiding progression—it means knowing exactly when to push limits, let go of pressure, and ride with flow. We talk MTB visualization, jump progression

MTB Confidence Crisis! Trust Your Skills, Ride With More Flow and Have More Fun [RNL Quick Rip] Jun 10, 2026 1428 Are you letting mountain bike imposter syndrome steal your confidence? In this episode of the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast, we dive into why your worth has nothing to do with your skill level and why your crashes, mistakes, and failures do NOT define you as a rider—or as a person. We explore mountain biking confidence, fear, comparison, progression, mindset, riding with faster riders, and the Ride

First Dirt Bike Ride! How Moto Can Push MTB Limits, Add Skill and Increase Balance [RNL S2, Ep 44] Jun 3, 2026 2077 What happens when a mountain biker tries moto/dirt bike training for the very first time? This episode of the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast dives into MTB mindset, overcoming fear and resistance, flow state riding, group ride pressure, and how trusting yourself on the trail can completely change your riding experience. Dan shares lessons from his first moto training session, the guys discuss compar

MTB Skills - Better Jumping, More Flow and The Rise of The Dynamic Mantis! [RNL S2, Ep 43] May 27, 2026 3656 MTB technique, fear vs. excitement, and trusting your skills — this episode of the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast is packed with mountain bike progression, mindset shifts, jumping tips, and aggressive riding confidence! The guys discuss elbows out riding position, bunny hop/J-hop practice, staying dynamic on the bike, and how “just get into it” applies both on the trail and in life. Dan shares break

This Changes Everything! MTB Perspective Shift for Unlimited Flow on Trails AND Life! [RNL RoadTrip] May 20, 2026 1638 Ride your ride, trust your skills, and replace negative self-talk with gratitude on this week’s Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast! We dive deep into mountain bike mindset, positive self-talk, flow state riding, confidence on technical terrain, and why we’re all better riders than we think we are when we stop comparing ourselves to others and simply stay present. In this episode, Dan and Sage recap an e

MTB Fear to Excitement! Trust Your Skills and Find Effortless Flow on the Trails [RNL RoadTrip] May 13, 2026 1806 Learn how to trust your MTB skills and tap into your amazing MTB intuition to find the rhythm of even the gnarliest of trails! In this episode of the Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast, Dan and Sage dive into mountain bike progression, jump technique, aggressive body position, trail confidence, and how trusting yourself helps unlock smoother riding on jumps, tech, and steep terrain. We talk about why mtb

The MTB Jump Tip That Finally Clicked! Unlock More Flow and Ride With Zero Pressure [RNL RoadTrip] May 6, 2026 1395 Jump technique breakthrough and no pressure rides take center stage in this fun, mindful mountain biking episode—where dialing in proper jump form meets the freedom of riding with zero expectations. We break down MTB jump tips, body position, step-up jumps, and how letting go of pressure leads to smoother riding, more confidence, and way more fun on the trail. On this Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast ro

Awareness is Your Superpower! Shift Fear to Confidence and Trust Your MTB Skills! [RNL RoadTrip] Apr 29, 2026 1309 Ride with aggressive confidence and unlock your best mountain biking by staying fully present—on the trail and in life. In this episode of the Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast, Sage and Dan dive into MTB confidence, overcoming crashes, proper jump technique, and why presence is the ultimate mountain bike skill. From Arizona trail riding to conquering fear after a fall, they share mountain biking tips,

Strong Legs and Little Arms - Technical MTB Climbing Tips to Crush Tech Trails! [RNL Quick Rip] Apr 22, 2026 1314 Why do some mountain bikers love technical climbing while others dread it? In this episode of the Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast, we dive into MTB climbing techniques, debating big gear vs granny gear, standing vs seated climbing, cadence vs leg power, and why rocky technical climbs can actually be more fun than smooth fire road grinds. We break down momentum, torque, pedal cadence, traction, and tech

From ER to Empowered: MTB Crash Lessons and Mental Resilience [RNL Road Trip] Apr 15, 2026 1374 Dan’s crash and injury update from the Ride & Laugh Across America trip takes center stage in this episode—3 crashes, 15 stitches, and a powerful mindset shift to “everything happens FOR us, not TO us.” We break down each MTB crash, the lessons learned in jumping technique, patience, and trusting the process, plus how mindset, presence, and language shape performance on and off the bike. Recor

MTB Podcast from the Van! Mindfulness, Fitness Anxiety and Letting Go [RNL Road Trip] Apr 8, 2026 999 Ride & Laugh From the Road | MTB Mindfulness Across America Dan and Sage record this short, high-vibe episode straight from their awesome vehicle (er, minivan) during their Ride & Laugh Across America MTB road trip. They reflect on letting go of fitness anxiety, trusting the process, and how confidence and progression naturally build when you stay present and stop forcing outcomes. From di

The MTB Upgrade Trap: Are Expensive Bike Parts Actually Worth It? [RNL Quick Rip] Apr 1, 2026 1477 Aluminum vs. carbon mountain bikes—frames and wheels—sparks a lively debate in this episode of the Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast. We break down which MTB components, suspension, and bike upgrades are actually worth the money, and whether modern budget bike parts, derailleurs, and aluminum rims perform just as well as the more expensive carbon options. From carbon vs aluminum frames and wheels to Kash

Move Over MTB Climbers? Downhill Flow vs Uphill Effort: Who Gets the Trail? [RNL Quick Rip] Mar 25, 2026 1131 Who really has the right of way on mountain bike trails—climbers or downhill riders? In this episode of the Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast, we debate classic MTB trail etiquette, the long-standing rule that downhill riders yield to uphill riders, and whether that rule still makes sense on modern mountain bike trails and flowy descents. We dive into real riding scenarios—technical climbs, ripping downh

MTB Traction Secrets, Rut Tracks, Crash Lessons and Slaying Trails Over 50! [RNL S2, Ep 42] Mar 18, 2026 3660 Hit the "Rut Track" with the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast as we break down mountain bike technique, learning to trust your tires, and the powerful MTB lessons that translate directly to trail riding. We also dive into unnecessary pressure riders put on themselves, Strava expectations, and why mountain biking at 50+ can still be your strongest, most progressive riding years. From crashes, confiden

Clipless Pedals Aren’t Just for Pedaling?! MTB Mindset, Bike Control and Progression RNL S2, Ep 41] Mar 11, 2026 3699 Perspective shift on the trail and in life! In this episode of the Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast, Dan explores the powerful mindset of “How is this working out FOR me?” while also having a breakthrough with clipless pedals—realizing they’re not just for pedaling efficiency but for lifting, boosting, and moving the bike with more control. The guys dive into mountain bike mindset, presence on the trai

Stop Labeling Trails Hard!, Why We Skip MTB Fails and Do NOT Use the Wrong Bladder! [RNL S2, Ep 40] Mar 4, 2026 3713 In this episode of the Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast, we dive deep into a powerful mindset shift for mountain bikers: stop labeling trails and features as “easy” or “hard” and start seeing them as “familiar” or “unfamiliar.” We explore how practicing presence off the bike helps you find flow, confidence, and progression on the trail—and Dan finally announces his long-awaited eMTB decision: the Orbea

No More Arm Pump! MTB Suspension Setup and Riding Loose Explained [RNL S2, Ep 39] Feb 25, 2026 3695 Suspension tuning, functional weight training for mountain biking, and learning to ride loose are the big themes in this episode of the Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast—because a custom dialed setup and a strong, dynamic body can completely transform your MTB performance. We break down how a custom tune from Ride Dialed eliminated arm pump on Dan’s Pivot Firebird, why lifting heavy (for bone density, in

Fat Adapted MTB and Positive Media: The Truth About Carbs, Energy and Performance [RNL S2, Ep 38] Feb 18, 2026 3659 In this episode of the Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast, we dive deep into the benefits of becoming a fat adapted athlete—riding fasted, steady power delivery, weight loss, improved metabolic health—and why most mountain bikers don’t need constant carbs, gels, and sugar to perform. We also explore the power of consuming positive media vs. negative media, the mindset shift of listening to podcasts at 1x

Do You Need Strength Training for MTB? Flat Pedals Also Hawesfest Highlights [RNL S2, Ep 37] Feb 11, 2026 3652 Does strength training help on the mountain bike? In this episode of the Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast, we dive into this question as well as the flat vs. clipless pedal debate, optimal mountain bike handlebar width, and highlights from the Hawesfest MTB Festival - plus tips to improve flow, jumping, and trail performance. We break down whether learning to ride flat pedals actually builds better MTB

Orbea Wild eMTB Demo, Battery Size Choices and MTB Nutrition Reality Check [RNL S2, Ep 36] Feb 4, 2026 3678 Power vs weight, big battery vs range extender, full-power vs lightweight eMTB — we dive deep into the eMTB debate, plus why clean eating for mountain bikers matters even if you ride hard and feel “fit.” We also break down how to flip negative thoughts into a winning streak mindset, build confidence, and keep stacking wins on and off the trail. From Orbea Wild eMTB demos, indoor trainers, mullet

Flats for Skills / Clips for Speed! Pedal choice, Confidence and Yearbook of Stoke! [RNL S2, Ep 35] Jan 28, 2026 3635 Flats or clipless pedals—which really help your MTB skills, confidence, and progression? We break down the real benefits of flat pedals vs clip-in pedals, plus introduce the MTB Yearbook of Stoke—a simple way to zoom out, track your wins, and remember just how capable you really are. This episode of the Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast dives into traction techniques for snow, rain, and bad conditions, c

MTB Mindset Cheat Code: Intuition vs Ego, Big Features & Stacking Wins [RNL S2, Ep 34] Jan 21, 2026 3639 Learn a powerful MTB intuition hack (when to listen and when to wait), why speaking out loud while riding sharpens your trail-brain, and why we’re sending massive gratitude to Brian at BKXC for shaping modern mountain biking stoke. In this episode of the Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast, we break down intuition vs ego (statements vs questions), patience on big features, stacking wins after crashes, des

Stop Doubting. Start Sending: How to Trust Your Skills on Big MTB Jumps and Features [RNL S2, Ep 33] Jan 14, 2026 3644 In this episode of the Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast, Sage shares an inspiring jump story about trusting his skills, listening to his intuition, and riding with confidence—regardless of what others are saying. By focusing on his strengths and building his own line, he unlocks smoother jumps, better flow, and a powerful mindset for MTB progression. The guys also dive into bouncing vs. pumping techniqu

Channel Your Inner MTB Jaguar - Ride Loose, Jump High & Crush Buffets [RNL S2, Ep 32] Jan 7, 2026 3801 Ever finish a ride and think, “I earned this entire buffet”? This episode of the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast dives deep into MTB eating habits, fasting, sugar crashes, and why “I rode today so I’m going to stuff my face” might be the ultimate mountain bike eating disorder. We also break down riding loose, pumping and bouncing the trail for more traction and flow, J-hop technique (jump like a jag

Stop Judging, Start Progressing: MTB Mindset, Presence and Flow = The Best Year Yet! [RNL S2, Ep 31] Dec 31, 2025 3727 Happy New Year from the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast! Dan and Sage dig into the difference between MTB goals vs. expectations, how riding with presence fuels progression, and why judging riders (or ourselves) only holds us back. The guys reflect on 2025 wins—from fitness gains and confidence on the bike to better mindset and less judgment—while setting 2026 MTB goals like more presence, flat peda

No Jinxes, Just Winning Streaks: Build MTB Confidence After Crashes [RNL S2, Ep 30] Dec 24, 2025 3721 Crash recovery, mountain bike confidence, mindset, presence, and letting go of negativity take center stage on the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast where we talk MTB progression after crashes, riding without fear, mental toughness, flow state, and why we don’t believe in jinxes (only winning streaks). We dive into mountain bike setups, enduro bikes, confidence-building handlebar changes, tire pressure

eMTB vs Dirt Bike – Which Is Better for MTB Progression? Plus, So Much More! [RNL S2, Ep 29] Dec 17, 2025 3723 Join Dan and Sage as they break down modern MTB bike fit, dynamic body position, and dive into a fun progression debate: eMTB vs. dirt bike - which one actually levels up your riding faster? They also discuss how you can stay positive when you can’t ride, GoPro’s mysterious “lanky filter,” progressive bike parks popping up across the country, and why talking out loud through features can shut do

MTB Flannel Snuggies, Kielbasa Tires and The Granny Gear Defense No One Asked For! [RNL S2, Ep 28] Dec 10, 2025 3628 Cold-weather Sage squares off against desert-rider Dan as they discuss the MTB Flannel Snuggies, Trail Tire Inspired Kielbasas, and a Granny Gear Defense absolutely no one asked for! Laugh along as the guys crack up over tire inserts, mispronouncing Schwalbe, Dan’s painful journey toward higher PSI, and the Ride & Laugh Food Truck featuring the infamous Cream of Chamois Sauce... fermenting at

MTB Progression Myths: Stop Judging Your Riding and Start Launching Forward Again [RNL S2, Ep 27] Dec 3, 2025 3527 Desert rain turns trails into hero-dirt and chaos, and Dan somehow finds the one rain rut big enough to swallow a full-grown mountain biker—3 riders enter, 2 riders leave! The guys break down brake-lever angle mistakes, High/Ready vs. Low/Ready body positions, and why tiny setup tweaks can make a massive difference as features, jumps, and tech get more consequential. They also map out the Ride &am

Bike Fit, Bar Width and Flip Chips: Dial In Your MTB Setup For Optimal Confidence! [RNL S2, Ep 26] Nov 26, 2025 3832 On this episode of the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast, Dan and Sage dive straight into the good stuff—bash guards, brake rub, bar width, flip chips, bike fit, and why riding loose, centered, and chin-forward unlocks real MTB control. They mix legit skill breakdowns with hilarious trail moments, from climbing fails and emotional resilience to enduro mindset debates and discovering a group of javelina

Time for a MTB Reset? Crashes, Grace, E-Bikes on Tech and Riding Like It’s Your Job! [RNL S2, Ep 25] Nov 19, 2025 3756 This episode of Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast dives into fresh eyes, fresh lines, and letting go of old thinking - on the trail and in life! Join us as Dan and Sage break down “Trail Jerrys,” unlocking new lines, riding with intention, and seeing familiar trails with the same fresh-start energy you bring to a new job. They dig into body-position gold from Arizona legend Rob Drew, riding strong on j

Traction, Timing & Trust - MTB Body Position Tips That Change Everything [RNL S2, Ep 24] Nov 12, 2025 3724 In this episode of the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast, Dan and Sage break down how to ride loose, dynamic, and centered so you get more traction, more flow, and more confidence on the trail—and in life. They talk about mountain bike mantras, jump progression, trusting your instincts, and why staying present keeps you from “Oppenheimering” (overthinking) mid-feature. The guys also chat about Red Bul

Stop Absorbing the Trail! This MTB Tip Unlocks Confidence on Jumps, Slabs and More! [RNL S2, Ep 23] Nov 5, 2025 3685 In this episode of the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast, Dan and Sage dive deep into what it really means to be active and intentional on your mountain bike — from pumping the trail to pushing through the G-Out on steep slabs. Between Dan’s visit from Arizona to Pennsylvania, epic rides, and hilarious crash stories, the guys unpack the secrets to better traction, flow, and confidence. Whether it’s st

No Thought Can Be Trusted! MTB Flow, Confidence and The Power of Letting Go [RNL S2, Ep 22] Oct 29, 2025 3472 Dan and Sage dive deep into MTB confidence, flow state, and positive self-talk in this hilarious and insightful episode of the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast! From big gap jumps at the Ceres Trails to Dan’s epic struggle mounting his Schwalbe radial tires, the guys tackle overthinking, fear, and the art of trusting your instincts on the trail. ✨ They break down how to build confidence when every fe

Social Media Mind Games - Balance Your Feed to Boost Your MTB Ride! [RNL Quick Rip] Oct 22, 2025 1325 In this episode of the Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast, Dan and Sage dive deep into social media and the influence it has on mountain biking — the good, the bad, and the scroll-happy ugly. They share how riding used to be before phones and GoPros, how Trailforks and YouTube changed the game, and how to stay positive in the age of MTB influencers and online comments. It’s all about using social media as

More Grip, Less Slip! MTB Traction Masterclass – Braking, Body Position and Flow [RNL S2, Ep 21] Oct 15, 2025 3671 Learn how to ride your mountain bike with more grip and control by mastering your braking and body position! We can find flow on steep, loose, rowdy trails by being active on the bike and intentional in our movements. Sage and Dan break down how smart braking, dynamic movement, and balanced body position can keep your tires hooked up on steep slabs, tech trails, and flowy descents. They share pro

Your Future Self SHREDS! How to Manifest MTB Confidence for Epic Flow on all Trails! [RNL S2, Ep 20] Oct 8, 2025 3680 Your mind is your most powerful mountain bike tool! In this episode of the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast, Dan and Sage dive deep into mountain bike mindset, positive self-talk, and trusting your future self to ride with flow, confidence, and grace. As always, the guys mix in plenty of laughs about cooked taints, chamois cream, and the eternal MTB shoe battle of BOA vs. laces while reviewing the ne

MTB Speed Secrets: Eliminate Overthinking for More Speed, Confidence and Fun! [RNL S2, Ep 19] Oct 1, 2025 3705 Ever wonder how pro mountain bike riders make riding gnarly trails look so effortless and smooth? In this episode of the Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast, we dive into the secrets of brain processing speed, staying perfectly centered, and learning to mountain bike at speed without overthinking. Join Dan and Sage as we talk about mtb tire upgrades, jump techniques, and trusting your flow. Can you rewire

Ride Aggressively Centered! MTB Braking Secrets and Positive Self-Talk for More Flow [RNL S2, Ep 18] Sep 24, 2025 3726 Boost your mountain bike confidence and braking skills on all spicy features, steep rolls and sketchy trails! Dan and Sage share positive mantras like “aggressively centered” and “keep ’em rolling” to help you stay calm, ride loose, and trust your skills on all sorts of trails. With tips on using less front brake for more traction and plenty of laughs (yes, even Dan’s imaginary riding buddy Beno

Embrace the Case! MTB Jumping Tips, Flat Pedals, and Riding Aggressive! [RNL S2, Ep 17] Sep 17, 2025 3639 In this episode we dig into the mental game of MTB jumping including building confidence, when to case vs. overshoot, and why “Aggressively Centered” riding keeps you safe and smooth on gnarly tech and scary gap jumps. We also talk flat pedals vs. clipless, riding at "The Local Bike Park" progressive lines, and how just two days at a downhill park can skyrocket your jump confidence. Plus our tak

Don’t Pay the Dirt-Tax! – Party Lap Secrets, Trains and MTB Confidence Hacks [RNL S2, Ep 16] Sep 10, 2025 3746 Mountain biking is all about mindset—positive self-talk, progression, and pushing your MTB skills without pushing past your limits. In this episode, Dan and Sage share mountain bike tips on building confidence for downhill, enduro, and trail riding while keeping the laughs rolling. From jump line trains and party laps to hardtail challenges, MTB crashes, and the always-hilarious chamois cream deba

Big Jumps and Angry Taints: MTB Mind Games Every Rider Struggles With [RNL S2, Ep 15] Sep 3, 2025 3621 Casing jumps vs. overshooting jumps, trusting your skills, letting go of the brakes and conquering MTB fear. Dan and Sage dive into mountain bike skills, jumping mindset, and the hidden truth about chamois cream (and a hilarious revelation!). Do you think a day at the bike park can add confidence to your next ride? Hear about an epic day at Mountain Creek Bike Park and finally clearing sketchy

Appreciate Your MTB Crash!? The Secret Upsides of Wiping Out on the Trail [RNL Quick Rip] Aug 27, 2025 1244 Mountain bike crashes — the worst part of MTB or just part of the trail life? We dive deep into the ups and downs of crashing: the pain, the broken bikes, the bloody wounds, and even the dreaded first shower after a crash. Sage and Dan get real about negative self-talk, nagging injuries, and the guilt of feeling like you ruined the ride for your friends. But it’s not all bad — crashing can bring s

MTB Training Hacks, Wheel Size Wars & Chamois Cream Confessions! [RNL S2, Ep 14] Aug 20, 2025 3621 Mountain bike training, mtb workouts, and trail laughs all packed into this Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast episode! Dan shares his indoor trainer setup, ERG mode hacks, and high-cadence climbing tips, while Sage explains road bike HIIT rides, power meter training, and why cadence variety matters for slaying technical climbs on the trails. The guys debate flat pedals vs. clipless, smooth pedal strok

Hardtail Speed Secrets, GPS Frustrations, Wild Animals & MTB Shake Weight!? [RNL S2, Ep 13] Aug 13, 2025 3727 Mountain bike skills, hardtail riding tips, and trail laughs in one episode of the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast! From mustache drama to fist bump etiquette, Sage and Dan mix technical advice with hilarious trail stories. Sage shares hardtail techniques for riding faster and more dynamically, while debating Garmin vs. Wahoo, underbiking, and whether speed is your friend. Plus, meet the stoked Filip

Squeaky Brakes, Wheel Size Debates and Hardline Takes [RNL S2, Ep 12] Aug 6, 2025 3672 Mountain bike hot takes, squeaky brakes, and wheel size debates — we cover it all in this week’s Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast! Whether you're flowing or overthinking on the trail, your brakes (and your shifting!) might be telling the whole story. Dan and Sage talk about the sounds of riding: skids, shifts, and... dropper posts? Yep, even your dropper post strategy says something about your mindset

MTB Coach Training NEARLY broke Sage! Flat Pedals, Slow Speed Skills & Sweaty Hugs! [RNL S2, Ep 11] Jul 30, 2025 3801 Ride & Laugh now has an official MTB Coach on the podcast! Sage dives into his intense weekend of becoming a certified mountain bike coach — and it wasn’t easy! Humbled by beginner drills, flat pedals, and slow-speed skills, Sage shares how letting go of ego and being open to learning transformed his mindset (and riding!). ✨ It’s just like riding a roller coaster: the more you trust, relax, a

Hardtails and Skills: Why You Need a Less Capable Bike! Underbiking vs Overbiking [RNL Quick Rip] Jul 23, 2025 1057 From hardtails to rigid single speeds, underbiking forces you to ride more dynamically, improve line choice, work different muscles and build serious MTB skills. Underbiking is a fun, budget-friendly way to turn familiar trails into fresh challenges. The guys also debate 'overbiking,' ideal bike setups, argue about gravel bikes (spoiler: Dan is not a fan), and agree that mixing it up keeps things

Fat Adapted, Fully Rested, and Cracking Eggs – MTB Recovery Tips That Work! [RNL S2, Ep 10] Jul 16, 2025 3656 Big milestone! Ride & Laugh Mountain Bike Podcast just hit 25,000 downloads and we’re feeling all the gratitude! In this episode, Dan and Sage talk about the power of rest — from skipping trail rides to skipping meals (on purpose). Dan took two full weeks off the bike and realized his body, brain, and adrenal glands were seriously thanking him. From extended fasting to ditching sugar, the guy

We Crash So You Don’t Have To! MTB Flow Tips, E-Bike Debates and Crapping Diamonds [RNL S2, Ep 9] Jul 9, 2025 3796 Dan hits Sunrise Mountain Bike Park and gets wrecked by dust, fear, and stiffness — until he finally commits and finds his flow. Sage breaks down how being dynamic, not just low, is the key to unlocking control and confidence on the bike. Ride high and low, loose and centered — and practice being aggressive even on the easy trails. The guys dive into the full-power vs. SL eMTB debate: are lighte

The Progression Paradox: Relax to Ride Better - The MTB Mindset Shift You Need [RNL S2, Ep 8] Jul 2, 2025 3504 Can the J-hop jump technique work on every MTB jump… or is that a fast track to disaster? Dan and Sage dive deep into this potent skill—plus a surprising mountain bike balance tip that might change how you ride: widen your knees! Sage battles brutal humidity and wet trails (with a fresh new mustache!) while Dan faces scary desert gap jumps and questions whether his mindset — or technique — is hol

Ride Backwards to Move Forward! MTB Mindset Advice, Gratitude, and Levo 4 eMTB Review [RNL S2, Ep 7] Jun 25, 2025 3656 Sometimes we need to ride our mountain bikes backwards to set up for a better line on the trail! This week, Sage & Dan discuss how taking a step back, on the bike and in life, often helps move you forward. They share MTB mindset hacks for handling overthinking, finding flow, and staying stoked even when trails (or life) aren’t perfect. The guys discuss their recent test of the new Specialized

Who Invited This Guy? MTB Jump Tips, Flip-Chips, Pedal Strikes & Group Ride Chaos [RNL S2, Ep 6] Jun 18, 2025 3674 Mountain Bike group ride dynamics have unspoken rules! How do you know where to “slot” yourself in the pack on trail rides? This episode is jammed full of jokes, but also packed with real technique gold. Sage learns a mind-blowing MTB jump tip! The result? More arc, more control, more style — and way less sketch. Sage’s whole jumping philosophy gets flipped, and yours might too. The fellas also

MTB Trail Closures — Riding the Fine Line Between Sanctioned and Illicit Trails [RNL S2, Ep 5] Jun 11, 2025 3817 Ever ridden an “illegal” mountain bike trail? Has one of your favorite trails or features been recently shut down? How do we deal with closures and rogue trail building? This week, we dive into the wild world of mountain biking’s gray areas — from rogue builds and red tape to trail shutdowns and the passionate advocates fighting to keep the stoke alive. Whether it’s sketchy lines or battles over

How to Increase the Vibe, Fun, Progression and Stoke on Every Group Ride! [RNL S2, Ep 4] Jun 4, 2025 3722 Raise the collective vibe, confidence, stoke and progression on your next mountain bike group ride! Learn tips to maximize fun on the trails when riding with mountain bikers of all levels. Whether you're the fastest, slowest or somewhere in between, let go of judgement, find your flow and appreciate the progression that is coming! The guys discuss riding in difficult conditions like rain and du

No Dabs and Steep Slabs! How to Stay Perfectly Centered On Your Bike at All Times! [RNL S2, Ep 3] May 28, 2025 3743 Letting go of expectations leads to more flow and progression on our mountain bikes! Whether it's climbing incredibly difficult technical trails without 'dabbing' (foot down) or confidently riding steep rock slabs, being centered on the bike and in our minds is the key to ultimate confidence, flow and fun on all rides! This week Dan and Sage discuss seeing the infamous "White Line" trail in Sed

From Anxious to Awesome: How to Replace MTB Anxiety with Excitement & Confidence! [RNL S2, Ep 2] May 21, 2025 3605 When you feel intimidated or anxious about a mountain bike trail, feature, jump or drop you can absolutely flip that anxiety to excitement and confidence! Each MTB ride, you're going to focus on the best possible outcome, release expectations, use positive affirmations and give yourself grace! You're not who you thought you were... you're better! Join Dan & Sage as they discuss the mindset

Say "Yes" to Progression! How to Simplify Challenging MTB Features [RNL S2, Ep 1] May 14, 2025 3675 Sage's visit to Arizona and all the amazing trails in the southwest are just further proof that anything is possible on and off our mountain bikes. The boys talk about how to break down complicated features, jumps and drops on the trail in order to gain confidence for that important 100% commitment moment! We are not who we thought we were... we're better! And so are you! Ride & Laugh Seaso

Pumptrack Training Adds Speed, Control, Flow, and Fun on Your Next MTB Ride! [RNL Quick Rip] May 7, 2025 1381 "You gotta, 'Pump the Hump!'" Developing skills and technique on a pump track has direct application to your next mountain bike ride! Pump tracks teach free speed on trails along with the ability to crush berms, pull for jumps, stay perfectly centered and work on your manual game! The guys may (hilariously) struggle to explain what a pump track is but they definitely agree that pump tracks are aw

Pedal Through Anything! 6 Key MTB Moves to Conquer Slow Speed Tech! [RNL Quick Rip] Apr 30, 2025 1202 Pedaling through "Slow Speed Tech" trails on your mountain bike requires all your physical and mental MTB tools! A good tech trail is like a MTB puzzle. Use the tips discussed in this episode to unlock the puzzle, complete the trail and feel the stoke! Eyes up, keep moving forward, dropper down, be dynamic... you got this! Join Sage & Dan as they discuss their love for slow-speed tech as

Top 7 MTB Features For Fun, Progression, Flow & Stoke! (And 1 to Skip?) [RNL Quick Rip] Apr 23, 2025 1118 What are your favorite mountain bike features on the trails? Mountain biking provides endless fun and challenges with all kinds of skinnies, drops, jumps, slabs, berms and more! Join the conversation as the guys discuss their top 7 mountain bike features and the 1 feature they can do without! Do you agree with Sage and Dan? What is your favorite MTB feature? Which is your least favorite feat

The Pros Know! Elite Riders Have These MTB Mindset Tools! [RNL Quick Rip] Apr 16, 2025 918 The best mountain bikers in the world have an elite level perspective! Raise your vibration, access a positive attitude, focus on the good, visualize success, be prepared, remove expectations and more! Use these mountain bike mindset tips to access your flow state! Ride with more confidence and have maximum fun! Unlock all of your unlimited progression! Let each ride be what it's supposed to

These Top 9 MTB Innovations Changed Mountain Biking forever! – Do You Agree? [RNL Quick Rip] Apr 9, 2025 1145 The evolution of mountain bikes has been nothing short of amazing! These top innovations lead to more confidence, comfort, safety, flow and fun on all bike trails, jumps, drops, features and tech! Join the conversation about the top MTB innovations! From dropper posts, disc brakes, 1x drivetrains, wheels sizes, tubeless tires and more! It's an awesome time to be a mountain biker. Modern mount

Mountain Bike Pads on Trial! A Case For And Against MTB Protection [RNL Quick Rip] Apr 2, 2025 1048 Mountain bike knee pads, elbow pads and full face (enduro) helmets add protection but maybe they don't help all riders!? Is Sage right to refuse MTB pads on trails and bike parks!? Let the trial begin! Flow on the trails starts with confidence and comfort. If we believe that pads protect us and add confidence, then they are already working! But the same is true for the opposite belief system!

MTB Passion - Go All In! With Special Guest Johnnie U From Mountain Bike Q&A! [RNL S1, Ep 59] Mar 26, 2025 3846 The final episode of Ride and Laugh Season 1 with guest star Johnnie U from MTB Q&A is all smiles as we discuss finding and following your passion, mountain bike enthusiasm, hugs over fist bumps, trail pizza, ebike joy, MTB friendships, stoke and of course; unlimited gratitude & appreciation! Learn about Sage's crazy '1 minute hug rule', magnetic pedals, dropper posts & bike geo, Flor

Riding Laps and Hitting Big Gaps – How Routines Can Help on Hard MTB Features! [RNL S1, Ep 58] Mar 19, 2025 3756 Learn a valuable MTB breathing and visualization routine to apply to your next mountain bike ride featuring intimidating jumps, drops rocks and gnarly trails. Choose your riding partners carefully as group vibes matters when you're looking to take your mountain bike riding to the next level. How much time do you need to get ready at the trailhead (Dan needs too much!?) What makes mountain bike j

Ride Dynamic, Fist Bump vs. Handshakes, Pump Track Skills, Hip Hinge & More! [RNL S1, Ep 57] Mar 12, 2025 3716 When you're open, present, and centered on the mountain bike, all your skills will flow effortlessly. Use your excitement to be active and dynamic on the bike as you confidently ride all the jumps, drops, tech, steeps, skinnies and climbs. Settle the debate... mountain bike fist bump vs. hand shake (or bro-hug!)? Are some features visually misleading or actually harder to ride? Dan 'focuses on

Drop Your MTB Limits, Set Bold Goals, Add New Skills, Thrive at Enduro Races & More! [RNL S1, Ep 56] Mar 5, 2025 3633 We are what we believe we are so let's CHOOSE to believe that anything is possible on a mountain bike! Your Passion for mountain biking will reveal your true talent for riding bikes on trails with all the cool jumps, drops, tech and features you can imagine! Sure, hikers and other non-riders may think we're nuts but that's fine with us! We are shifting our mindset to "YES" for anything on a mou

The Hardest MTB Feature, Intuition, RevGrips, DJ vs Gravel Bikes, and More! [RNL S1, Ep 55] Feb 26, 2025 3566 Certain MTB features are visually unsettling and can get stuck in our heads! The dreaded "downward facing drop" may require more technique on our mountain bike trails than we're accustomed to! Access your MTB intuition, trust your skills, stay present and effortlessly flow through any and all features on your next mountain bike ride! Do calloused hands mean we're gripping the handlebars too har

Are We Born With It? The Love of Mountain Biking Starts with These Innate Talents! [RNL S1, Ep 54] Feb 19, 2025 3718 From the pros racing Red Bull Hardline Tasmania to brand new riders, all mountain bikers possess the three prime MTB talents of balance, coordination and comfort on a bike. What makes some people fall in love with mountain biking but scares others away from ever taking a bike on a trail again? Join the fellas for a fun debate on how soon new riders know if they love or hate mountain biking? Are

Your Best NEXT Mountain Bike May Surprise You! E-bike vs. DJ for Progression! [RNL S1, Ep 53] Feb 12, 2025 3846 We can all agree that hardtail mountain bikes and full suspension bikes are great choices, but what is the best NEXT bike for most riders to excel on? E-bikes (aka E-MTBs) allow almost limitless laps and miles on your trails, but e-bikes are expensive while Dirt Jumpers (aka DJs) are inexpensive and demand precision from riders. Listen to the episode & then let us know which you would choose

Buy THIS Bike – Hardtail, Full-Sus or E-bike! Ideal 1st MTB to Own! [RNL S1, Ep 52] Feb 5, 2025 3609 What type of mountain bike do experienced riders recommend for new MTB trail riders? Join a "Ride & Laugh" mountain bike debate about hardtails, full-suspension, e-bikes, skills, fun, budget, weight, passion and much more! How important is the right bike to a new mountain bike rider's joy of our amazing sport? Do most riders start on hardtails, or can we go right to a full-suspension trail b

Riding Blind! 8.5 Tips to Increase Your Confidence When Riding Trails for the 1st Time! [RNL S1, Ep 51] Jan 29, 2025 3709 Maximize the fun and excitement of mountain biking on a new trail for the 1st time, aka “Riding Blind!” Learn the top tips to boost your confidence, speed and flow on new and old MTB trails!! Is it still riding blind if you’re following another rider? Dan rides partially blind (Pirate style!?) on the double black "Old Man Trail" at South Mountain in Phoenix, Arizona. Does a ‘big’ bike with more

Can XC Bikes Enduro? MTB Pants, Hip Packs, Hardtails on Hard Trails & More! [RNL S1, Ep 50] Jan 22, 2025 3633 Do we need to 're' unlock mountain bike skills we have already learned but not used on the trails in a long time? Episode 50 is a classic as we discuss the "Ride and Laugh Cabin/Museum," breakaway pants, hardtails on hard-trails, hip packs and much more! Dan and Sage learn the best way to land your mountain bike while discussing how much water we need on a ride, hip-pack vs. hydration packs, mor

Unlock Trials Skills on Your MTB to Add Confidence and Progression! [RNL S1, Ep 49] Jan 15, 2025 3891 There is no doubt that utilizing beginner to expert level "Trials Skills" on a trail will unlock infinite progression, confidence and ability on your next mountain bike ride! Old habits may die hard, but when we practice being present on the bike, we can unlock all the balance, skill and ability we want! Sage was super stoked to ride with "The Trail Boss," Jeff Lenosky at Mt. Penn in Reading, PA

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