From Beginner to World Cup MTB Racer: Sian A’Hern’s Journey

Today, we’re diving into an incredible story of resilience and drive with YT Mob’s own Sian A’Hern. From a total skeptic about mountain biking to racing at Nationals - and then World Cups - all within a couple of years, Sian’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. But it hasn’t been all smooth sailing; she’s faced multiple injuries, each time coming back stronger. We explore her mental strategies, the tools she relies on to stay focused, and how she’s overcoming the feeling of getting too comfortable since achieving her dream of making it onto a factory team. Sian’s outlook on life and bikes is contagious, and there's a lot to learn from her story. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Sian A'Hern. You can also watch this episode on YouTube here. You can follow Sian on Instagram @sianahern. Podcast Stuff Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Rick Schubert

Josh Bryceland, aka Ratboy, is a huge fan favourite. After stepping away from World Cup racing after his 2016 season, we've seen Josh change his focus. But after all those years away, will we finally see him back between the tape at a downhill World Cup? Join me as Josh and I catch up on the last few years. Hear how his use of psychedelics has informed some of his decision making. Josh shares the details behind his move from Santa Cruz to Cannondale, shedding some light on the impact it had on his own mental health. We also discuss becoming a father, running an enduro race and ask the question on everyone's mind 'will we see you between the tapes at a World Cup?'. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Josh Bryceland. You can also watch this episode on YouTube here. You can follow Josh on Instagram @ratty_bryce, watch the 50to01 YouTube here and find Bolly Skyline Enduro here. Podcast Stuff Become a Better Rider in 2025 In last week's episode with Ben Plenge, we chatted through 6 simple steps to be a better rider in 2025. If you'd like a handy document that covers all that we talked about, then Ben has a free pdf available here. If you want even more and are keen to get on a Strength Factory programme, then there are some offers available. Discount code is DTIMEPOD Valid until 31st October 2024. Get the first month of The Complete MTB Programme for only $10 and you get a 1 week free trial. Works out at only $2 per week for the first 5 weeks! Get 50% off of lifetime access to The Over 40s MTB Programme. All covered by a 100% money back guarantee. Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Downtime Podcast

Do you want to be a better mountain bike rider? Well, coach Ben Plenge from The Strength Factory is here to help you in just six simple steps. Ben lays out the fundamentals needed to put together a winter of progression, that will lead to you being a better, faster, safer rider in 2025. Ben takes us through planning, building a foundation, looking after ourselves, adding intensity, upgrading our skills and getting specific, to ensure that we're always improving. As ever, there is lots of great information in this episode from Ben. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Coach Ben Plenge. You can also watch this episode on YouTube here. If you'd like a handy document that covers all that we've talked about in the episode, then Ben has a free pdf available here. If you want even more and are keen to get on a Strength Factory programme, then there are some offers available until 31st October 2024. Discount code is DTIMEPOD Valid until 31st October 2024. Get the first month of The Complete MTB Programme for only $10 and you get a 1 week free trial. Works out at only $2 per week for the first 5 weeks! Get 50% off of lifetime access to The Over 40s MTB Programme. All covered by a 100% money back guarantee. You can follow Ben on Instagram @strengthfactory_coach. Check out his free resources on YouTube here and the video we mention in the episode is here. You can also find information on the Maffetone formula which we mention here. Podcast Stuff Join the Team? We are looking for someone to help us part-time with video, YouTube and social media related bits and pieces. If you're a passionate mountain biker, love podcasts and enjoy the challenge of working with video, YouTube and social media platforms, then get in touch before 18th October 2024 and tell us a bit about yourself. Emails to [email protected] please, we look forward to hearing from you. Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Dave Price

Today, we’re joined by Kasper Woolley from the YT Mob. After less than a year on a downhill bike, Kasper entered his first World Cup in Mont-Sainte-Anne and made it all the way to the finals. But his journey to this point has not been easy. Kasper has faced significant health challenges and overcome serious injuries to make a name for himself in enduro racing. We sat down at the Loudenvielle World Cup to hear Kasper’s incredible story, from his early days in BMX and skiing, to discovering the health issues that were holding him back, and how he overcame those hurdles, alongside numerous injuries, to finish 7th overall in the Enduro World Cup. Kasper’s journey is a testament to resilience and determination. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Kasper Woolley. You can also watch this episode on YouTube here. You can follow Kasper on Instagram @kasper_woolley. Podcast Stuff Join the Team? We are looking for someone to help us part-time with video, YouTube and social media related bits and pieces. If you're a passionate mountain biker, love podcasts and enjoy the challenge of working with video, YouTube and social media platforms, then get in touch and tell us a bit about yourself. Emails to [email protected] please, we look forward to hearing from you. Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Rick Schubert

Mont-Sainte-Anne is an iconic venue that once again played host to the final round of the World Cup. As always, the racing delivered and I'm joined by Neko and Olly to dig into what went on. There's plenty to discuss, with an updated track, injuries, near misses and more enduro riders than ever before joining the start list. It was also the end of an era with Greg Minnaar stepping away from World Cup racing. So sit back, hit play and listen to this Mont-Sainte-Anne post-race show with Neko Mulally and Olly Morris. Supported By Maxxis Tyres Maxxis is synonymous with performance and racing and is the winningest brand in the history of World Cup and EDR racing. No matter where or how you ride, Maxxis has the tyres for you with a wide range of tread patterns, casing and compound options. They also have a brand new intermediate tyre for you to check out, the new High Roller. You can check out the entire range of Maxxis tyres over at Maxxis.com, and find the tyres at your local Maxxis dealer. You can also give them a follow on instagram where they are @maxxisbike. Podcast Stuff Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo – Boris Beyer

Today we are joined by Santa Cruz Syndicate's Nina Hoffmann. Nina dives into her approach to optimising mountain bike performance through a focus on coaching, technique, process, and psychology. We also explore her fascinating university project, which examines the use of hypnosis to enhance downhill racing performance, and get a glimpse into her upcoming PhD journey. Nina shares what it’s like to join one of the most high-profile teams in mountain biking, the pressures of wearing the Syndicate jersey, and much more. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Nina Hoffmann. You can win a set of Fox Union BOA shoes by heading to @downtimepodcast, finding the photo of Nina holding a shoe and making sure you're following us and @boafitsystem, then comment on the post to let us know if you want the clip or the flat pedal version of the shoe. You've got until midnight BST on Friday 4th October to enter and we will choose a winner at random. You can also watch this episode on YouTube here. You can follow Nina on Instagram @nina.hoff96. Podcast Stuff Join the Team? We are looking for someone to help us part-time with video, YouTube and social media related bits and pieces. If you're a passionate mountain biker, love podcasts and enjoy the challenge of working with video, YouTube and social media platforms, then get in touch and tell us a bit about yourself. Emails to [email protected] please, we look forward to hearing from you. Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Sven Martin

The end of the season is here and we're in Mont-Sainte-Anne for the final round of the Whoop Mountain Bike World Series for 2024. Join me and Chris Kilmurray as we reflect back on the chaos of Loudenvielle and the holidays that followed. We discuss the iconic MSA track, some riders to look out for and dig a little into some of the potential changes for 2025. So sit back, hit play and listen to this Mont-Sainte-Anne pre-race show with Chris Kilmurray. Supported By Maxxis Tyres Maxxis is synonymous with performance and racing and is the winningest brand in the history of World Cup and EWS racing. No matter where or how you ride, Maxxis has the tyres for you with a wide range of tread patterns, casing and compound options. They also have a brand new intermediate tyre for you to check out, the new High Roller. You can check out the entire range of Maxxis tyres over at Maxxis.com, and find the tyres at your local Maxxis dealer. You can also give them a follow on instagram where they are @maxxisbike. Podcast Stuff Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo – Boris Beyer

Today we are joined by enduro mountain bike racer, Charlie Murray. This season, Charlie has really come into form, taking 3rd place in the overall. But it hasn't all been plain sailing for Charlie as he shares some of the challenges he's faced behind the scenes this season. Charlie also shares what he believes have been the secrets that have helped him perform at the top this year, as well as providing great insight into his offseason testing process. Hear about Charlie's experience in commentary for the downhill with Warner Brothers Discovery, as well as his thoughts on the future of enduro racing and much more. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Charlie Murray. You can also watch this episode on YouTube here. You can follow Charlie on Instagram @murraycharles and find his YouTube channel here. Podcast Stuff Supporting Partners We Are One Composites WeAreOne are offering listeners 20% off their awesome Revolution wheelsets and rims for the whole of the month of September. Just use the code DowntimeSept2024 at the checkout over at weareonecomposites.com. Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Seb Schieck

Today we're joined by world-renowned Scottish mountain biker and trials legend, Danny MacAskill, for his most in-depth interview yet. We sit down with Danny at his home in Scotland to dive deep into his incredible journey, from riding the streets of Dunvegan, to becoming an international sensation. Discover the real story behind his viral breakout video, Inspired Bicycles. Danny opens up about the creative process behind his viral edits, managing fame, and his thoughts on retirement. He also shares insights into risk and injury, hints at exciting future projects and much more. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Danny MacAskill. You can also watch this episode on YouTube here. Here are some links to videos we discussed in the episode... Chainspotting, Inspired Bicycles, Wee Day Out, Manifesto by Ryan Leech. You can of course, follow Danny on Instagram @danny_macaskill and find him on YouTube here. Podcast Stuff Supporting Partners We Are One Composites WeAreOne are offering listeners 20% off their awesome Revolution wheelsets and rims for the whole of the month of September. Just use the code DowntimeSept2024 at the checkout over at weareonecomposites.com. Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Downtime Podcast

Welcome to Downtime Goes Downhill, a podcast mini-series that’s bringing you along for the ride, as we have a go at racing downhill. Downtime Goes Downhill wouldn’t be happening without the support of some incredible brands. So a massive thanks to Canyon bikes, Fox suspension, Wahoo Fitness, Fox clothing and protection, Maxxis tyres, Magura brakes and We Are One Composites wheels. Downtime Goes Downhill is back and this time we’ll be taking you behind the scenes of our team camp to give you some insight into what went on. I’m joined by my teammates, Jonny and Ben, as well as World Cup mechanic and suspension wizard, Rich Simpson, as we take you through our work on suspension setup, trying out some interesting new technology in our forks, new tyres and more. So sit back, hit play and listen to Downtime Goes Downhill with me, Ben and Jonny and Rich. You can also watch the episode on YouTube here and you can check out Rich's suspension setup work here. Podcast Stuff Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That's less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that's using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it's totally free. You'll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo - Tim Lloyd