The Ride Companion

Latest Episodes:

John Fernandes of Freeride Madeira on the highs and lows of building a mountain biking paradise Mar 19, 2025

Show notes

In this episode Olly sits down with John Fernandes, co-founder of Freeride Madeira. John takes us through the wild journey of turning a passion for trail building into a global MTB hotspot, hosting the Enduro World Series, Trans Madeira, and welcoming some of the biggest names in the sport. The lads discuss how Jacob Gibbins' iconic photos and Brendan Fairclough's first visit helped put Madeira on the map, the behind-the-scenes madness of shooting DEATHGRIP, and what it really takes to maintain over 200km of hand-built trails across the island. John also shares what it was like hosting the EWS, the brutal reality of trail building, why other companies aren't pulling their weight when it comes to maintaining the trail network, how Brandon Semenuk managed to end John's relationship! Finally John talks about what's next for Freeride Madeira, including new eMTB trails, jump lines, and the epic expansion of Trans Madeira to a whole new island. If you've ever dreamed of riding in Madeira, this one's packed with history, insight, and plenty to get you stoked on booking a holiday! Learn more at freeridemadeira.com or contact info@freeridemadeira.com BIG thanks to this episode's sponsors: - Invisiframe are offering TRC listeners an EXCLUSIVE 15% OFF their wide range of PPF kits, decals, bike wash and their new protective coating with code 'theridecompanion' over at invisiframe.co.uk - Everybody needs a WORX Hydroshot and some power tools, right? Get 15% off all WORX tools at https://uk.worx.com when you use code THERIDECOMPANION - Do you get hangry? Want an easy way to tick your daily nutritional needs? Support the show and get 15% OFF HUEL products with code 'RIDE' at huel.com/ Unlock a healthier, easier way to eat with Huel—nutritionally complete meals in minutes, so you can focus on what really matters...biking.

Support our long term partners: - Marin Bikes: marinbikes.com/gb - Focus Bikes: focus-bikes.com - HUEL: Get 15% OFF with code 'RIDE' at huel.com/ - Hiplok: https://hiplok.com/the-ride-companion - Nissan Vans: nissan.co.uk/vehicles/new-vehicles/primastar.html - Play Fantasy Downhill at The Race Companion: theracecompanion.com instagram.com/theracecompanion - Get 10% off Troy Lee Designs with code 'theridecompanion' at saddleback.avln.me/c/OzduCWvjtcOr

- Athletic Greens: Get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs at athleticgreens.com/RIDECOMPANION - Compex: Get 20% off with code 'THERIDECOMPANION' at compex.com/uk/ - Worx: Get 15% off with code 'THERIDECOMPANION' at worx.com - LAKA: Get 30 days of FREE insurance with code 'RIDECOMPANION30' at laka.co - HKT Products: Use code 'PODCAST' for 10% off the entire site.

Follow Olly Wilkins Instagram @odub_23 YouTube @owilkins23 The Ride Companion Instagram @theridecompanion YouTube @TheRideCompanion YouTube clips and BTS channel @moreridecompanion Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more theridecompanion.co.uk 📝 Contact Us & Business: https://theridecompanion.co.uk/pages/contact Edited By: Doug Tucker, onlyflightdispatch.com & TRC Media House #TheRideCompanion #mountainbiking #mtbpodcast

Tahnée Seagrave on Rediscovering Her Love for Riding, Speedsuit Controversy & FMD's Factory Future Mar 05, 2025

Show notes

Tahnée Seagrave is on the podcast! In this episode of The Ride Companion, Tahnée Seagrave reflects on the highs and lows of her career, from five years of injuries and nearly stepping away from racing to rediscovering her love for the sport. She opens up about the mental challenges of recovery, the impact of concussions and burnout, and how self-talk and mindset shifts helped her return to the top. We also discuss some of the big talking points in downhill racing, including the Speedsuit that debuted in Fort William, the fairness of protected rider status, and whether the new UCI points system is helping women's MTB. Tahnée also talks about FMD becoming a factory team, the state of women's downhill, whether junior riders are getting enough time to develop and much more... Follow Tahnée Seagrave on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tahneeseagrave/ BIG thanks to this episode's sponsors: - Invisiframe are offering TRC listeners an EXCLUSIVE 15% OFF their wide range of PPF kits, decals, bike wash and their new protective coating with code 'theridecompanion' over at invisiframe.co.uk - Everybody needs a WORX Hydroshot and some power tools, right? Get 15% off all WORX tools at https://uk.worx.com when you use code THERIDECOMPANION - Hiplok Exclusive TRC Offer! Get a FREE Jaw+ compact bike rack & Z Lok security tie with any 1000 Series HipLok purchase (excl. BR1000 bracket). Simply use code THERIDECOMPANION at checkout at https://hiplok.com/the-ride-companion

Scott Beaumont: What REALLY happened to 4X, 30 years of pro racing lessons and more... Feb 26, 2025

Show notes

Scott "Boom Boom" Beaumont is on the podcast! In this episode of The Ride Companion Olly and Davi sit down with the BMX, downhill, and 4X legend to take a deep dive into his wild 30 year career. From growing up in a motorsport racing family to pioneering 4X and fighting to keep it alive, Scott's got some unbelievable stories. We chat about why 4X got mysteriously dropped from the World Cup calendar, how close it was to becoming an Olympic sport, and the behind-the-scenes drama that nearly killed it. Plus, Scott breaks down the art of getting (and keeping) sponsors, what it takes to stay at the top for decades, racing Shaun Palmer, Brain Lopes and many more in the early days and what's next for the sport. Follow Scott Beaumont on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/beaumontracing/ BIG thanks to this episode's sponsors: Health is wealth folks so why not get optimised, cover your nutritional bases and probably ride better with AG1. Get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D + 5 FREE travel packs at drinkag1.com/RIDECOMPANION

- Get 15% off OneSkin with the code RIDECOMPANION at oneskin.co/ - Invisiframe are offering TRC listeners an EXCLUSIVE 15% OFF their wide range of PPF kits, decals, bike wash and their new protective coating with code 'theridecompanion' over at invisiframe.co.uk

Support our long term partners: - Marin Bikes: marinbikes.com/gb - Focus Bikes: focus-bikes.com - HUEL: Get 15% OFF with code 'RIDE' at huel.com/ - Nissan Vans: nissan.co.uk/vehicles/new-vehicles/primastar.html - Play Fantasy Downhill at The Race Companion: theracecompanion.com instagram.com/theracecompanion - Get 10% off Troy Lee Designs with code 'theridecompanion' at saddleback.avln.me/c/OzduCWvjtcOr

Reece Wilson: From Factory Rider to AON Racing Team Owner, The State of Downhill & More Feb 19, 2025

Show notes

Reece Wilson is in studio for a well overdue podcast! Former Downhill World Champion Reece Wilson joins the podcast for a deep dive into his career so far, from his switch from motocross to downhill to the highs and lows of racing at the elite level. We discuss his decision to leave a secure factory contract to build his own team, Aon Racing. Reece opens up becoming a part owner of GAMUX, the challenges of building a race program from scratch, insights in to the evolution of training for downhill, dealing with major injuries, and his thoughts on the future of the sport under Warner Bros. Discovery. Plus, much more... Follow Reece Wilson on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/reecowilson/ Follow AON Racing on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/aonracing_/ BIG thanks to this episode's sponsors:

- Everybody needs a WORX Hydroshot and some power tools, right? Get 15% off all WORX tools at https://uk.worx.com when you use code THERIDECOMPANION - Invisiframe are offering TRC listeners an EXCLUSIVE 15% OFF their wide range of PPF kits, decals, bike wash and their new protective coating with code 'theridecompanion' over at https://www.invisiframe.co.uk

Ben Plenge Opens Up About War, MTB Training and Mental Resilience Feb 12, 2025

Show notes

Ben Plenge is in studio for a hard hitting banger of a podcast! On this episode of The Ride Companion Ben Plenge opens up about his past in the British Army, sharing intense war stories from his time in Iraq and Afghanistan, including the Battle of Danny Boy, one of the most brutal British military engagements in recent history and the war crimes inquiry that followed years later. Beyond his military past, Ben breaks down the biggest myths in MTB training, explaining why most riders are training wrong and how certain high-intensity workouts could be doing more harm than good. He shares practical advice on recovery, cold plunges, and why focusing on the "other 23 hours" of your day matters more than you think. If you're preparing for a multi-day MTB event, Ben reveals the most common mistake that wrecks riders before they even start, outlines the three essential pieces of equipment for building the perfect MTB gym and much more... EXCLUSIVE OFFER Take your riding to the next level in 2025 with one of Ben's online training programmes. Code TRC will save you:- 30% OFF The Over 40s MTB Programme. This is for busy mid life riders who are getting back into fitness or training. Gym or home training options. One time purchase. thestrengthfactory.uk/over-40s-programme/ 50% OFF the first month of The Complete MTB Programme. This is a more performance focused programme for trail riders and enduro racers. 1 Week free trial then monthly subscription. Gym needed. thestrengthfactory.uk/complete-mtb-programme/ All programmes covered by a 100% money back guarantee, so you sign up completely risk free. Follow Ben on Instagram instagram.com/strengthfactory_coach/ BIG thanks to this episode's sponsors:

Get 15% off OneSkin with the code RIDECOMPANION at oneskin.co/
With all these pro rider insights you're going to want to recover like a pro too! Get 20% off with code 'THERIDECOMPANION' at https://www.compex.com/uk/

Sam Reynolds Joins AON Racing! DarkFest 10th Anniversary Plans & Belt Drive Freeride?! Feb 09, 2025

Show notes

EXCLUSIVE: Sam Reynolds drops into the studio to announce he's signed for Reece Wilson's AON Racing team! In this episode of The Ride Companion, we dive into why he made the move, his custom GAMUX bike with a Gates belt drive, Pinion gearbox, and Manitou Dorado forks, and whether it's ready to tackle DarkFest's massive jumps. Sam also talks about the state of freeride, industry struggles, and whether young riders are missing out on opportunities. Plus, fatherhood, risk vs. reward, and his biggest-ever flip at Matt Macduff's compound. And with DarkFest's 10th anniversary on the horizon, we talk new quarter pipes, pushing limits, and how freeride has evolved over the past decade BIG thanks to this episode's sponsors:

Invisiframe are offering TRC listeners an EXCLUSIVE 15% OFF their wide range of PPF kits, decals, bike wash and their new protective coating with code 'theridecompanion' over at invisiframe.co.uk
Health is wealth folks so why not get optimised, cover your nutritional bases and probably ride better with AG1. Get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D + 5 FREE travel packs at drinkag1.com/RIDECOMPANION

The power of values, connection, and discomfort: Tom Pinchard's advice for life Jan 29, 2025

Show notes

Tom Pinchard is a coach who helps people and businesses figure out what really matters, get clear on their goals, and create a solid plan to build the future they want. On this episode of The Ride Companion, Olly and Davi sit down with Tom to tackle some of life's biggest questions: Do we get more uncertain as we age? How can we figure out what we really want in life? Why are men struggling with isolation, and could community and connection be the answer? Tom also shares practical strategies for identifying belief systems, stepping out of your comfort zone, and setting boundaries that align with your core values. This one's a bit different for TRC, but we reckon there's loads of value in it. Let us know what you think! You can learn more about Tom's work at https://www.tompinchard.com BIG thanks to this episode's sponsors:

Want to turn your mental performance and clarity up to 11? Get 45% off the Magic Mind bundle with with our link: https://www.magicmind.com/companionjan
HUEL: Get 15% OFF all HUEL products with code 'RIDE' at https://huel.com/

Losing, gaining, and swapping!? Jan 22, 2025

Show notes

Olly and Davi are back in the studio for their first podcast of 2025! In this episode of The Ride Companion, Davi chats about his new bike sponsor, talks about losing his best mate, Jay the dog, and comes up with a new term: "Christmas guilt." Olly gives an update on his Sicilian flat project, talks about checking out UK Arenacross, and the lads introduce a fun new game called TRC Swap Shop. BIG thanks to this episode's sponsors:

Want to turn your mental performance and clarity up to 11? Get 45% off the Magic Mind bundle with with our link: https://www.magicmind.com/companionjan
With all these pro rider insights you're going to want to recover like a pro too! Get 20% off with code 'THERIDECOMPANION' at https://www.compex.com/uk/
Invisiframe are offering TRC listeners an EXCLUSIVE 15% OFF their wide range of PPF kits, decals, bike wash and their new protective coating with code 'theridecompanion' over at https://www.invisiframe.co.uk

Jono Jones on risk, Red Bull Hardline growing up with Matt Jones and more Jan 15, 2025

Show notes

Jono Jones is back for his annual first-guest-of-the-year episode of The Ride Companion! In this episode, Olly and Jono reflect on 2024, diving into Jono's biggest achievements and his journey from working in the city to pursuing a new project. They explore the balance of risk versus reward that led Jono to take the leap. Jono also shares stories of riding the infamous Red Bull Hardline course with moto enduro legend Jonny Walker, growing up with his brother Matt Jones, and how the two rediscovered their passion for riding together after years apart. The lads also discuss Olly's unexpected fears, Gee Atherton's insane trail builds, terrible races, what it really takes to be a pro rider, and much more... BIG thanks to this episode's sponsors:

Want to turn your mental performance and clarity up to 11? Get 45% off the Magic Mind bundle with with our link: https://www.magicmind.com/companionjan
Do you get hangry? Want an easy way to tick your daily nutritional needs? Support the show and get 15% OFF HUEL products with code 'RIDE' at https://huel.com/ Unlock a healthier, easier way to eat with Huel—nutritionally complete meals in minutes, so you can focus on what really matters...biking.
Invisiframe are offering TRC listeners an EXCLUSIVE 15% OFF their wide range of PPF kits, decals, bike wash and their new protective coating with code 'theridecompanion' over at https://www.invisiframe.co.uk

Support our long term partners: - HUEL: Get 15% OFF with code 'RIDE' at https://huel.com/ - Nissan Vans: https://www.nissan.co.uk/vehicles/new-vehicles/primastar.html - Play Fantasy Downhill at The Race Companion: https://www.theracecompanion.com https://www.instagram.com/theracecompanion - Get 10% off Troy Lee Designs with code 'theridecompanion' at saddleback.avln.me/c/OzduCWvjtcOr

- Athletic Greens: Get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs at athleticgreens.com/RIDECOMPANION - Compex: Get 20% off with code 'THERIDECOMPANION' at compex.com/uk/ - Peak Supps: Get 10% off the TRC bundle and everything on site with code 'theridecompanion' at peaksupps.co.uk - Worx: Get 15% off with code 'THERIDECOMPANION' at worx.com - LAKA: Get 30 days of FREE insurance with code 'RIDECOMPANION30' at laka.co - HKT Products: Use code 'PODCAST' for 10% off the entire site.

Follow & Engage Olly Wilkins Instagram @odub_23 YouTube @owilkins23 The Ride Companion Instagram @theridecompanion YouTube @TheRideCompanion YouTube clips and BTS channel @moreridecompanion Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more theridecompanion.co.uk 📝 Contact Us & Business: https://theridecompanion.co.uk/pages/contact Edited By: Doug Tucker, onlyflightdispatch.com & TRC Media House #TheRideCompanion #mountainbiking #mtbpodcast

The Christmas Quiz Special with Jono Jones! Dec 25, 2024

Show notes

Jono Jones joins Olly and Davi for The Ride Companion Christmas quiz show special! Test your general, Christmas, geography, science, music and mountain biking history knowledge with The Ride Companion's family friendly Christmas quiz. Jono Jones also has a special announcement plus more... There's no sponsors on this episode but we want to say a HUGE thanks to everybody who supports this show. It's been an unreal year and we can't wait for more of the same in 2025! Support our long term partners: - HUEL: Get 15% OFF with code 'RIDE' at https://huel.com/ - Nissan Vans: https://www.nissan.co.uk/vehicles/new-vehicles/primastar.html - Play Fantasy Downhill at The Race Companion: https://www.theracecompanion.com https://www.instagram.com/theracecompanion - Get 10% off Troy Lee Designs with code 'theridecompanion' at saddleback.avln.me/c/OzduCWvjtcOr

- Athletic Greens: Get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs at athleticgreens.com/RIDECOMPANION - Compex: Get 20% off with code 'THERIDECOMPANION' at compex.com/uk/ - Peak Supps: Get 10% off the TRC bundle and everything on site with code 'theridecompanion' at peaksupps.co.uk - Worx: Get 15% off with code 'THERIDECOMPANION' at worx.com - LAKA: Get 30 days of FREE insurance with code 'RIDECOMPANION30' at laka.co - HKT Products: Use code 'PODCAST' for 10% off the entire site.

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