My Back 40

Not much to write here. This long overdue episode fills you in in what I have been up to this past summer. A new hip, travel, adventure, bikes and boards, school and major life changing considerations. I hope you enjoy this podcast as much as I enjoyed making it. It’s been too long. Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 Podcast Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

Listen in as I speak with Stephan Kesting—martial artist, author, and serious outdoor adventurer. In this episode, we’re diving into highlights from his incredible solo 1,000-mile canoe journey from Missinipe, Saskatchewan to Arviat, Nunavut. He paddled and portaged through some of Canada’s most remote wilderness, following the Churchill, Reindeer, Cochrane, and Thlewiaza Rivers, crossing massive lakes like Reindeer and Nueltin, and making his way down through the Barren Lands all the way to the shores of Hudson Bay. It’s a wild story of grit, solitude, and survival. If you want the full trip report, check it out at grapplearts.com/solo, and if this kind of adventure speaks to you, Stephan’s book Perseverance: Life and Death in the Subarctic is a must-read. https://www.amazon.ca/Perseverance-Death-Subarctic-Stephan-Kesting/dp/1639368612 Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 Podcast Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

Today’s guest is Nathalie Baillon, a French ultra-distance cyclist with an inspiring story of passion and perseverance. After spending a few years working as an engineer in Munich, she took a leap—packing up her bike and heading off on a solo cycling trip through New Zealand. That journey sparked something big. Back in Europe, she bought a new bike, strapped on some panniers, and knocked out her first 1,000-kilometre ride in under 60 hours. That was just the beginning. Soon after, Nathalie moved to Isère, picked up her engineering work again—but also signed up for her first official ultra race: the Race Across France, a grueling 2,600-kilometre ride. And she crushed it. From there, things took off. She entered international ultra-distance races, landed multiple women’s wins, and regularly placed in the top 10 overall—competing with the best in the field. Eventually, she left her day job to go all-in, building a life around the sport she loves. To learn more about Nathalie, chek out her website. https://www.nathaliebaillon.com/home/en Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 Podcast Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

In this episode I bring you a conversation with British Columbia's Mike Martin. There Were a number of riders from British Columbia this year and Mike Martin stood out. Although Mike hasn't been in the ultra endurance scene for that long he might just be a rider to watch as he continues to push his limits in the sport. In this episode I get to know Mike a little bit. We talk about Fatherhood, his work life, Tariffs (sorry), his previous adventures, as well as some stories from the trail. It was great to get to know Mike. Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 Podcast Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

I have been exchanging asynchronous text and voice messages with my coach Sebastien Rolland since October 2021. During that time, he has been a vital support person, mentor, and friend as I work on my own personal growth. As I work toward my own career in coaching and counselling, Sebastien has challenged my thinking in many life aspects allowing me to reframe my experience. To say that I have all these lessons nailed down would be a gross overstatement; We are all works in progress. In this conversation, we get things rolling with the question "What do you want to create?" This question can be a catalyst for any life decision you want to make, whether that's starting school or a new career. It can be the impetus of how you navigate your relationships and open up possibilities as you create the palette with which you want to colour your world. From a mental health perspective, I hope this chat will help people feel less trapped in their day to day lives and shed some light on the amount of control we actually have with the choices we make. So, what do you want to create? Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 Podcast Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

This is a repost of a conversation I had with Svein Tuft last year after he crushed the BCEPIC 1000 in 2 days and 2 hours. Svein is currently in second place on the 2025 Tour Divide and is in solid contention to setting a new record. My buddy Michael brought it to my attention that many might not know who this unassuming athlete is or his background and this podcast covers that. I hope you enjoy this repost. --------- In this episode I have a chat with Svein Tuft, winner of the BC Epic 1000. Svein shattered the record riding 1,044 km with almost 12,000 m of ascent in a time of 2 days and 2 hours. Svein is a retired Canadian road cyclist who competed professionally from 2005 to 2019. He rode for several teams, including Symmetrics, Garmin–Transitions, SpiderTech–C10, Mitchelton–Scott, and Rally UHC Cycling. Tuft won the 2006–07 UCI America Tour and claimed thirteen titles at the Canadian Road Cycling Championships: twice in the road race and eleven times in the time trial. We chat about his childhood, his draw to doing hard things, what is was like riding as a professional cyclist and what drew him to unsupported bikepack racing, which is quite a departure from the pro tour but something that he has fallen in love with. Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 Podcast Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

In this episode, by popular demand, I connect with Alex Burk. This was one of those cold call episodes where we connect and just shoot the shit about... well, about a ton of things! Topics include; Cycling, bikepacking, her journey to becoming a Veterinarian, the "why" of doing hard things, the inclusiveness and safety of bikepacking events, her Lost Elephant experience as well as her recent ride of Caves and Coves. I had a blast connecting with Alex and I hope you enjoy getting to know her as much as I did. Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

In this episode I bring you another great conversation with  Dr. John Ogrodniczuk. This is the third time he’s been on the podcast and it’s always an honour to speak with him. John is a Professor of Psychiatry and Director of the UBC Psychotherapy Program, one of North America’s largest medically based psychotherapy training programs.  His research program focuses on a variety of psychotherapies and patient populations, with a particular focus on personality disorders and men’s mental health. Dr. Ogrodniczuk has held several grants to support his research, which has led to over 300 scientific publications. John is also the Founder of HeadsUpGuys, a leading global resource for supporting men with depression. This episode marks a special occasion as his organization, HeadsUpGuys, is celebrating its 10th anniversary. In addition to his research, Dr. Ogrodniczuk is involved with teaching medical students and psychiatry residents, serves as a mental health consultant for various organizations, and maintains a psychotherapy practice. We had a lot to talk about in this episode, including a Heads Up Guys campaign called Step up for Him a campaign taking action in support of the millions of men across the globe – our brothers, fathers, partners, sons, friends, colleagues – who struggle with their mental health, often in silence. Clink the link to learn more about how you can get involved. HeadsUpGuys is the world’s leading online resource for men’s mental health. Over 10,000 people use it every week—but they have so many more men that we need to reach. STEP UP FOR HIM Hey there! Want a simple way to support men’s mental health while also taking care of your own? Heads Up Guys has something for you — it’s called Step Up For Him, and it’s all about moving with purpose. Here’s how it works: First — get moving. Walk, run, hike, bike — whatever feels good. You can join in anytime between June 1st and 15th. Do it once, every day, or just when you can. Totally your call. This two-week stretch includes Men’s Health Week and wraps up on Father’s Day, so it’s a meaningful way to show up — for yourself, and for the men in your life. Next — bring a buddy. Grab a friend, coworker, partner, whoever. Movement is always better with someone else, and sharing the experience does wonders for mental health. It’s a simple way to build connection and have some fun along the way. Then — share it. Take a photo or video of your movement, add some of our custom “HeadsUpGuys” stickers (just search us up), and post it using the hashtag #StepUpForHim. Tag some friends to join in, and help spread the word. Head’s up guys will be on the lookout for your posts to share on our socials — so yeah, you might get a shoutout! And finally — if you’re able, consider donating. Every dollar goes directly toward programs that help men heal, cope, and thrive. Just $1 helps us get self-check tools to 8 guys. $5? That can help one man connect with a qualified therapist. That’s a real impact. So, however you choose to Step Up — by moving, sharing, donating, or just talking about it — you’re helping change the conversation around men’s mental health. Let’s do this together. Let’s Step Up For Him. Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 Podcast Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

Just a short solo podcast to express my gratitude to the My Back 40 community for their support as I wait for some chassis repairs. I often encourage people to reach out and open up when things are difficult. We all go through difficult times and it’s okay to share those struggles. Being temporarily disabled has been difficult for me and when I reached out to share, you all stepped up to give me hope and encouragement. This is just to say thank you. Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 Podcast Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

In this episode I chat (finally) with Mikey Coulter, ultra endurance athlete and the filmmaker behind Yeti Adventure Films. Mike started bikepack racing only a couple of years ago but is known for his grit and tenacity as a competitive cyclist. At the same time, he is able to film his adventures, demonstrating the rollercoaster that accompanies this type of racing. Mike and I cover a ton of topics in this conversation but the common thread are the stories. It's not surprising that, as a filmmaker, he's also a fantastic story teller sharing tales from his adventures. I really enjoyed this chat - I say that a lot, don't I. I think you will too. Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 Podcast Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

In this episode, I speak with Drew Raney - Educator, bikepack racer, and supporter of All Kids Bike, a not for profit organizations whose mission is to get kids on bikes setting them up for confidence and leading athletic lives. We chat about his Stagecoach 400 race, his rig, and stories from the trail. We also talk about his life as an educator and the value I think he brings to kids lives in supporting them to lead active lifestyles. We also talk about the money he has raised via his bikepacking efforts as well as through the All Kids Bike Organization to get kids the equipment they need for success. Thanks for your continued support! This one will come out a little early for supporters like you, but because of the importance of this week in Canadian Politics, I wanted to get it out to everyone as soon as possible. Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 Podcast Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

In this episode, I converse with, 83 year old, Bob Fletcher who holds the World Record for longest e-bike ride. Bob Started in Alaska and pedaled himself all the way to Panama Covering 13,500km in 5 Months and 5 Days. We chat about his young life, his career in the educational system, and his first foray bike touring in Europe. We discuss how he built is record breaking team and the logistics of traveling such a long distance by e-bike. He also shares his secret-not-so-secret tip for living a long and healthy life. If you want to head out to meet Bob, you can do so April 17, from 6pm to 8pm at Ebike Edmonton, Reserve your spot now, or at his book signing on April 22nd, from 12pm to 2pm at Audrey's books also in Edmonton. Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 Podcast Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

I love Trish. We always have great chats and this one is no exception. We connected a few weeks ago as I wanted to hear about her Baja trip as part of my own recon to want to tackle the route with my adventure buddy in the future. How much water do you need to haul? How much food? What are the people like? The wildlife? What tire volume? Trish shares all and adds a few stories in as well. This is Trish’s 3rd time on the podcast. Check out these other chats to get to know this cycling power house better… 012. Trish Holt - Experiencing the World by Bike 145. Trish Holt - The Big Sky Spectaculaire & Sobriety I hope you enjoy this chat. If you find value in what I do, please consider signing up to my Patreon for as low as a cup of coffee. Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 Podcast Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

Just catching up… Lots to share about life and politics. We live in crazy times right now and I’d be lying if I said that it wasn’t affecting me. Life changes aside, the world seems to be slipping into an abyss of Oligarchy. It’s as if these politicians are taking queues from apocalyptical sci-fi movies. These scripts of billionaires taking over the world, oppression of it’s citizens, dictatorships, and US federal governments lawlessness are leading to catastrophic times. It’s hard to remain hopeful but all we can do is vote with our wallets and our feet and, in the upcoming Canadian Federal Elections, vote for the person who is most likely to lead our country to prosperity and not kiss the ring of the spoiled rich kid overseeing the destruction of the United States and possibly, if not stopped, the economic and natural world as we know it. Stay strong, Canada. And for my US listeners, I’m sorry this is happening to you. Huge thanks to Mannmade Cycles for sponsoring the My Back 40 Podcast Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

On February 20th, I lost my mom, Betty O’Shaughnessy, to cancer. She fought hard but in the end, cancer won the battle. I was encouraged to write while I was in Ontario with my family to support my mom during her final days, as a way to remain grounded. It was cathartic and despite writing being considered a distraction, it actually helped me to remain even more present and observant to all the tiny moments leading up to her death. I needed time to process my Mom’s passing before publishing this novelette. Still, it was hard to get through as this piece captured moments that, when re-read, whisked me back to the event and the raw emotions shared with my family. I won’t go on too much here as I want the story to speak for itself. Even though I thought I finished writing it, I feel as though I missed some important moments. One such moment was when my sister and I were going through old family photos, organizing them for the memorial service that took place only two days after her passing. This brought so much love and laughter into the space and I’m so grateful to have been able to share that with my family. Though this is a sad account and a chapter of my life that will forever be forged into my heart, I wanted to share it with you. I have never experienced loss like this before and I wasn’t sure how I would cope. Luckily, I have a number of loving and supportive people in my life and a community of My Back 40 listeners to lean on. If I haven’t already thanked you for reaching out with your thoughts, know that every word I received bolstered my strength and enabled me to get through this. Perhaps this is a little outside the box for My Back 40. For those of you who have been with me the last 5 years, you’ll know that part of this project is to not only share stories from amazing people, but to also share a little bit of my life too. Or maybe a lot. My hope is that by being vulnerable here, it will encourage others to do the same. Life is too short to not be our authentic selves. Update: To maintain privacy, the doctor’s original name has been changed. Huge thanks to Rollingdale Cycle for sponsoring the My Back 40 Podcast Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

Andy Ward is a ferocious beast with the energy and fervour of a Scottish Red Squirrel. His speed and race results may be the first thing that catch attention, but it is his boundless positivity and joy that everyone remembers. Andy is the first to offer encouragement. He loves nothing more than discussing gear choices and ride strategy, and he is right there to celebrate everyone's victories with equal stoke. Mr Ward single handedly blew the doors off of the Lost Elephant by turning what was once a 2 plus day race into a 35 hour race, many people will never forgive him for this, but we will all respect him for it. The aspect of Andy that may have surprised me the most is his attention to detail and preparedness. He seems to always be tinkering and finding ways to make his setup more efficient. I really admire his grit and determination, his fitness speaks for itself, but most of all I am thankful for his friendship. This bikepacking world is a funny one filled with even funnier individuals and at the outer edges are the extra unique ones. Andy is leading the parade of that fringe group within the fringe. He is one of our fiercest competitors, our most courageous adventurers and our most eager cheerleaders. Thank you Andy for being you. There is no one that could do it better. Hugs and kisses. Nathan Siemens. Huge thanks to Rollingdale Cycle for sponsoring the My Back 40 Podcast Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

In this episode I chat about winter riding, politics, motivation and mental health. This can be a hard time for many folks dealing with S.A.D.D. Thanks to the earth's tilt, we're seeing colder temperatures and less light. Just keep in mind that as if December 21st days are going to start to get longer again, so hang in there. Another significant date that is coming up is Blue Monday which happen on January 20th, 2025. Here's a Wiki about it. Deemed the saddest day of the year based on a multitude of factors, it's a time of higher than normal suicide levels. With this in mind, keep an eye on your loved ones. My advice? Try to find beauty in all things this winter. Layer up and get outside, especially on those blue bird sunny days. I guarantee it will give you a lift. Huge thanks to Rollingdale Cycle for sponsoring the My Back 40 Podcast Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling!

In this episode I speak with Nathan Siemens and Dean Dahl about their winter ultra ride called Cold Ride happening February 1st, 2025 with two options. FREEZIE 55km. 870m. Roll through beautiful single-track trails and quiet backroads for a fun adventure with amazing people. You got this! THE BIG CHILL 130km. 1700m. Take winter adventure to the next level riding epic backroads and trails showcasing postcard views of sweeping East Kootenay vistas. This route will challenge your limits in one of your most unique cycling adventures! Race for podium cash, or take your time to savour this unforgettable day out. We all know Nathan and his crew who develop the lost elephant ultra series so we don't need to go on about him haha. Dean is the founder of Have a Good Ride haveagoodride.com. They build experiences that connect great people, and beautiful places and help you accomplish good things in the world by doing something you love. All Goodride events support local charities who serve their community. Proceeds from your event registration will contribute to the good work of local volunteers who you will meet at the event! Huge thanks to Rollingdale Cycle for sponsoring the My Back 40 Podcast Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for keeping me rolling.

Well, it's been a summer of adventure and change. I haven't been around much taking a much needed sabbatical as I evaluate the next chapter of my life. There were many balls in the air the last few months; Unemployment, kid's being off for the summer, parenting schedule, coparenting challenges, potential re-education, travel and adventure. For those of you continuing to support me here on Patreon, I appreciate you. My hope is that this podcast is somewhat coherent and enjoyable. Thanks again Sponsored by Rollingdale Cycle Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Thanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!

In this episode, I bring you a conversation with Graham Mann the new man at the helm of RollingDale Cycles. It all started with a titanium hammer. This purchase led to Graham living his dream of building thoughtfully designed, high performance titanium bicycles for the discerning cyclist. Founded in 2016, Dale Marchand wanted to bring the world of custom bikes to the people who understood the importance of, not only the fit of the bike, but also the detail with which it is built. Every customer has a hand in the design so that the end product is one of the highest quality and performance possible. Graham's intention is continue this ethos as the new helmsman. You will hear in the conversation that Graham is passionate about what he does and can't wait to continue the legacy of RollingDale Cycles. I wanted to thank everyone for their continued support over the summer while I try to figure out life. I'll tell you more in my monologue what has been going on and what my future plans are. Again, thank you for your continued support. I love you all. Save 25% at Dynamic Cyclist when you use the promo code MB40 at checkout. Save 15% at Redshift Sports when you use the code MB40 Save 50% off your first month of coaching at Cycling 101 when you use the code MB40 at checkout. Visit Rollingdale Cycle Thanks to Ottalaus Inc. for their support. Thanks to Spandex Panda for their support. Thanks to Lakeside Bikes in Invermere for supporting me!