Ever wonder what it’s like to cycle 60,000 kilometers across continents with nothing but a shoestring budget and a love for simplicity? Isaak Vanthomme takes us on a five-year journey from icy Canadian roads to the jungles and highlands of Central and South America—facing challenges, embracing minimalism, and forging unforgettable connections along…

What happens when the freedom of cycling becomes both a necessity and a joy? Discover the transformative journey of Jeffrey McElfresh, who is living with CMT1A, a condition that challenges walking but unlocks freedom on two wheels. From conquering multi-state rides to starring in a PBS documentary, he showcases the resilience and joy found in cycli…

Discover the journey of Paul Edkins and Vivien Metairie, two solo cyclists who embarked from Europe with dreams of reaching South Africa, only to find unexpected friendship and adventure in Ethiopia. From navigating bustling cities and challenging terrains to sharing stories over campfires, their experiences shine a light on the joy of unplanned en…

Embark on an inspiring journey with Calliopé Georgousi, who traveled across 12 European countries, from the UK to Greece. Along the way, they navigated diverse landscapes, unexpected route changes, and found a balance between solitude and community. Through moments of vulnerability, resilience, and personal growth, the adventure showcases the trans…

Discover the incredible journey of PL and Kristen Meindertsma, who are cycling across five continents over five years for five causes, aiming to raise $2.5 million for organizations in business, sports, and education. Beyond exploring the world, their mission reflects a deeper quest for purpose, highlighting the impact of meaningful connections and…

Discover what happens when a passion for travel evolves into a lifelong adventure on two wheels. Join Helen Dainty, a.k.a. hels on wheels, who has pedaled through 90 countries over nearly two decades. She shares tales from remote Australian outback trails to vibrant cities like Barcelona. Explore the realities of long-distance bicycle touring—from …

Discover the allure of cycling in Rwanda with Bruno Peelman as he unveils the country's hidden gems and adventurous spirit. From the scenic Congo Nile Trail to vibrant local culture and smooth roads, Rwanda offers a safe and unforgettable biking experience. Join us as we delve into the camaraderie of small group tours, the thrill of remote trails, …

What does it take to build a biking partnership that spans decades and thousands of miles? Ken Francis and Phillip Robinson share how a chance online meeting led to unforgettable adventures across the US, Europe, and beyond—from self-supported rides in the Pacific Northwest to creative hybrid trips combining trains, roller coasters, and open-road c…

What drives someone to cycle the entire Pacific Coast alone—and how does it change them? Cat Lau shares her journey of overcoming cultural expectations, tackling tough terrain, and discovering deep self-reliance. From the kindness of the cycling community to nights spent camping under the stars, this episode explores how adventure can lead to heali…

What happens when creativity meets the open road? Artist James Crossley shares his inspiring project, Middle Ground, where a cargo bike becomes a moving canvas. This unique residency invites artists to travel through diverse landscapes, connect with communities, and create art along the way. Discover how cycling can spark spontaneous conversations,…

How does one overcome polio and diabetes to embark on an incredible cycling journey? In this inspiring episode, Ken Reinke shares how he pedaled across the country multiple times after turning sixty. In fact, Ken has ridden over 9,000 miles since his 67th birthday! From Florida to San Diego and beyond, he embraced freedom on the road while carefull…

Join Emma Karslake as she shares her passion for cycling as the ultimate means of exploration. Her early adventures in South America set the tone for a life dedicated to discovering the world on two wheels, embracing both the challenges and the exhilarating freedom it offers. Emma shares invaluable strategies and heartfelt stories, illuminating the…

What drives someone to embark on a two-and-a-half-year biking adventure across the globe? Join us as we explore the intriguing world of long-distance cycling with Ben Clark, who is currently traveling through Southeast Asia on a 35,000-kilometer bike tour. This episode offers a glimpse into the life of a digital nomad, highlighting the challenges a…

Mark Tovell takes us on an exhilarating ride through Taiwan’s lush landscapes and formidable peaks. He shares essential tips for navigating Taiwan’s diverse climates and challenging cycling routes, from the importance of a reliable rain jacket to tackling steep gradients in the mountainous regions. He provides insights into the island's impressive …

Scott Sharick shares how a stroke served as both a wake-up call and a motivator to embrace an active and spontaneous lifestyle. Fueled by the kindness of strangers and the allure of unpaved roads, his journey through Southeast Asia encompasses more than just the kilometers traveled. From the bustling streets of Thailand to the remote villages of Ca…

Lisa Watts takes us on an epic 3,000-mile journey from Florida to Maine via the East Coast Greenway. Along the way, she embraces life's simplicity and the enriching experiences found in unexpected moments on the road, from the practicalities of wider bike tires and the comfort they provide to the wisdom gained in balancing adventure with safety. Li…

Join us as Justin Wolfenberg and his children, Henry and Leila, share the trials and triumphs of cycling the TransAmerica Route together as a family. With resilience and perseverance, they face everything from biking through snow and managing high-speed crashes to navigating diverse landscapes and weather conditions. Their bond grew stronger throug…

In this repeat of one of our most downloaded shows, Sheelagh Daly takes us on an inspiring solo journey across Europe that blends stamina, self-discovery, and the fine art of fueling your body during extended tours. With insightful advice on maintaining optimal nutrition, she offers practical tips on making healthy choices even when options are lim…

What drives someone to visit every National Park in the lower 48 states by bike? Spencer McCullough recounts his incredible journey across 18,000 miles, highlighting encounters with generous locals and enduring connections with Warmshowers hosts. He shares the importance of strong wheel sets and the lessons learned from unexpected mechanical breakd…

Liz Pomeroy, better known as 0Stella, has seamlessly combined a passion for music with long-distance cycling. Ride along on their awe-inspiring journey that began on Earth Day, 2022, and stretched for 5.5 months across thousands of kilometers. Along the way, an unexpected knee injury and subsequent adaptations led to a remarkable adventure filled w…

Explore the evolving landscape of bike touring through the lens of seasoned traveler Jeff Jinnett. He shares tales of enduring the heat, battling steep terrains, and finding unexpected kindness from strangers over 40 years on the road. Jeff’s story is a rollercoaster of perseverance and gratitude, featuring grueling climbs toward Lake Tahoe and the…

Chris Clinch shares his passionate decision to explore Colombia on two wheels, starting from the vibrant city of Cartagena and heading toward Medellin through the majestic foothills of the Andes. The journey reveals valuable lessons on minimalism as he quickly learns the beauty of living with less and the kindness of strangers, who were pivotal dur…

Jerry Gore takes us on an extraordinary ride from London to Kyiv, sharing a deeply personal journey to raise awareness for children living with type 1 diabetes in Ukraine. He shares harrowing tales of constant air raid sirens, sharing the road with tanks, and the powerful moments of human kindness encountered along the way. Jerry’s story shines a l…

What role can bicycles play in changing lives? Karolin Windhuber shares how one company is making a significant impact by providing bicycles and maintenance education in developing countries. During her 3,000-kilometer cycle ride from Germany to Turkey, she raised awareness and funds for World Bicycle Relief. Karolin discovered the beauty of slow t…

Roller Coasters across the world, cycle adventures through scenic landscapes, hitchhiking up a mountain, wild camping in city parks…after 25 years of cycling touring together, friends Ken Francis and Philip Robinson have seen it all. Their stories are filled with laughter and the spirit of discovery as they navigate theme parks and biking trails wo…

Agathe Daudibon, the tourism director at the European Cyclists’ Federation, joins us to explore the fascinating world of Eurovelo. She shares the origins, ambitions, and the impressive network available to cyclists. This comprehensive system challenges the traditional notions of tourism, highlighting the benefits of cycling not just for avid bikers…

What inspires someone to cycle from France to Korea? Join us as we explore the fascinating journey of a passionate adventurer who made this impressive trek to the World Scout Jamboree, promoting bicycle travel and sustainable transportation along the way. Florian Coupe is a cyclist determined to make an impact and inspire youth around the world. He…

Ever wondered what it's like to cycle from the frosty terrains of Alaska to the bustling streets of Argentina? Ville and Kristen Jokinen can tell you. They took on this monumental challenge and experienced the raw emotions and thrilling adventures that come with an extended bike tour across diverse landscapes. They share their intimate encounters w…

Embrace the ripple effect of hospitality with the Warmshowers Southern California hosting group! This special group has logged well over 600 guests between them. But for them, it’s not about the numbers; it’s about the profound impact the simple act of hosting has had on them. From offering shelter to providing a warm meal, each gesture of hospital…

Are you captivated by tales of historical journeys and the adventurers who dared to traverse the globe on two wheels? Then you're in for a treat as we follow the path of Giulia Baroncini, who embarked on a monumental 5-month bike tour. Inspired by legendary Italian bike tourer Luigi Masetti's groundbreaking travels, Giulia not only honors tradition…

Alissa Bell takes us on an inspiring adventure as she shares her transformational journey from the corporate grind to the liberating world of global bike touring. Following the motivating stories of women adventurers, Alissa stepped out of her comfort zone, leading to remarkable experiences in East and West Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America…

Join us on an incredible cycling journey with the Bennek family as they share their experiences of leaving behind their life in Southern Germany to embark on a unique family cycle tour. Discover the challenges and joys of bike travel with two young kids as Lorena and Gregor discuss finding the perfect balance between adventure and family life. Thei…

Today’s episode of Bike Life aired earlier this year and quickly became one of our most downloaded shows of all time. All of our 2023 guests have been simply amazing! We hope you enjoy this encore presentation of Biking 4 Biodiversity. What do you get when you combine a love for adventure and cycle touring with a passion for nature conservation and…

Today’s episode of Bike Life aired earlier this year and quickly became one of our most downloaded shows of all time. All of our 2023 guests have been simply amazing! We hope you enjoy this encore presentation of Murdock, the Hosting Legend. Richard Martin, aka Murdock, discovered Warmshowers entirely by chance. Eight years and 200 guests later, Mu…

Jane Hertenstein's cycling journey began at a young age when her father strapped wooden blocks onto her tricycle. Since then, she has been deeply curious about exploring the world on her bike. From early solo trips to her epic cross-country adventure, Jane's love for cycling has allowed her to connect with many people along the way. Jane has author…

Melissa Pritchard embodies the spirit of exploration. Her passion for cycling has shaped her life and taught her many important lessons. From learning to be content with less to finding happiness in the simple pleasures, her experiences on the road have given her a new perspective. Melissa's passion for cycling extends beyond her own adventures as …

Kenneth Wilson, the highway cellist, shares his extraordinary “work of art” journey touring with his cello on his bike. With his book, "Highway Cello," as the backdrop, Kenneth takes listeners on a captivating tale of musical exploration and self-discovery. He recounts the challenges and triumphs of riding with his cello, including the ingenious so…

Ride along as Brandon Bell takes us on a journey of self-discovery and environmental consciousness. After experiencing the impact of the 2008 recession and witnessing the growing complexity of the environmental crisis, Brandon embarked on a quest for answers. Leaving behind his career in the property industry, he pursued marine biology and sustaina…

After being diagnosed with cancer in 2019, Reija underwent extensive treatment and emerged stronger than ever. Inspired to make a difference, Reija and her partner embarked on a 10-week cycle tour, racing against time to raise money for the cancer charity Cycling for Cancer. As Reija shares her story, we learn about the challenges she faced during …

Today, we welcome back former Warmshowers board member, cycle tourer, and legendary host Ken Francis to discuss the important topic of mental health and its connection to both cycling and hosting. Ken brings his deep knowledge and personal experiences to the table, sharing insights about the transformative power of travel and the impact it can have…

Carolyn Stallard, a professor at Brooklyn College and a freelance musician, has found a unique way to combine the freedom of remote teaching, a love of music, a desire to give back, and the joy of bicycle touring. From her first solo trip on the East Coast Greenway to her epic adventure down the West Coast, Carolyn proves that cycle touring is not …

Meet George Balarezo, intrepid global citizen, adventure cycle tourer, seasoned traveler, and author. George shares his fascinating journey through Ethiopia, known for its rich culture and stunning landscapes. From encountering rock-throwing children to navigating through challenging roads, George's experience is both thrilling and eye-opening. Dis…

What do you get when you combine a love for adventure and cycle touring with a passion for nature conservation and awareness? Hanna Ollos and Jonas Sommer embarked on an epic cycling journey from Germany to Southeast Asia, with the goal of promoting nature conservation and raising awareness about the biodiversity crisis. Little did they know that t…

For 25 years, Dan Schmitt dreamed of taking a solo bikepacking trip across the northern tier of the United States into Canada. After retirement, his “Kontiki Dream” finally came true. Dan shares his 4800-mile bike trip, where he encountered numerous challenges, and heartwarming moments, making many meaningful connections with people along the way. …

Stewart Clark and his wife Nancy (the stoker) have been tandem cycling for almost 20 years. They have been all over the world on their tandem and are members of several tandem touring clubs, including the Tandem Touring Club of France. Whether you're an experienced tandem cyclist or just starting, there are many benefits to tandem cycling with a pa…

Tadeo Pueyrredon has always had a love for nature, but it was his father’s passion for cycling that inspired him to take up bike touring. His dad bought his first bicycle and began touring at the young age of 72! After hearing about his dad’s adventures, Tadeo decided it was his turn. He has since cycled in many countries, including Cuba, Spain, Ch…

Sara Qiu Ruan has embarked on a life-changing adventure, conquering her fears and cycling with the profound purpose of helping people. Sara’s solo cycle tour has taken her across 7500km and into 10 countries – and counting. She has overcome her fear of asking for help, adjusted to wild camping, and stepped out of her comfort zone by connecting with…

Four years ago, Tyler Diedrick had never cycled more than 10 miles at a time and didn’t even know that bike touring was a thing. Then he was gifted a book called To Shake the Sleeping Self by Jedidiah Jenkins, and it changed the course of his life. Tyler quit his job, sold a majority of his belongings, bought a bike off of eBay, flew to Sacramento,…

For many years, Jo Davies harbored a natural yearning for adventure. When her US work visa was about to expire last year, she could have just flown back to the UK. But this adventurer decided to take the “scenic route” and ride her bike home instead. Currently in Panama, Jo shares her incredible experience of leaving Boston for Vancouver, turning l…

Is this a joke? That’s what retired fireman and professional grandpa Steve Diaz said when he found out that he won the Warmshowers 2022 Bike Giveaway. Steve and Cindy, who live in beautiful Mt. Shasta, CA, heard about Warmshowers 4 years ago and set up a profile. They were excited to get their first guest soon after, who turned out to be Ken Franci…