Bike Life

In this special 150th episode, we explore the heartwarming joy, unexpected connections, and chaotic fun of opening your home to touring cyclists from around the globe.

Follow Tim Oye’s epic 5,000-mile journey across the US to fight ocean plastics, powered by the incredible hospitality of strangers-turned-friends along the way.

Janet Anspach-Rickey shares how she used an e-bike, a plant-based lifestyle, and pure resilience to log over 40,000 miles and pedal across the U.S. and its perimeter twice, proving that adventure has no age limit.

Markus Stitz’s epic 34,000-kilometer journey around the world on a single-speed bike reveals how letting go of the plans and leaning into curiosity can transform your perspective and connect you with humanity.

After a career setback, Marta Ballus traded comfort for a bicycle to tackle a solo journey through extreme elements, discovering that rewriting your own script is the ultimate path to self-confidence.

James Thomas, a UK cyclist, ditches his comfortable life to pedal from London to India, finding high-mountain adventure, spiritual growth, and a permanent new home along the way.

Jordi Möllering, an actor-turned-courier, ditches the GPS to navigate from the Netherlands to Kazakhstan using only a chain of handwritten letters and the kindness of strangers.

A global journey of over 55,000 kilometers reveals how trading the comforts of home for "bicycle speed" can lead to incredible resilience, unexpected healing, and a profound connection with the world.

James and Jane Hall share twenty years of wisdom from the road, proving that trading a career for global bike touring is the ultimate way to shift your perspective and truly "just flipping do it."

Discover how a canceled trip and a hesitant first ride in Texas sparked a record-breaking solo adventure across seven countries, proving that anyone can pedal from zero to a global odyssey.

In part two of our International Women’s Month special episodes, three powerful women share how ditching the group for a solo bike adventure turns rainy miles and steep climbs into a masterclass in confidence, freedom, and self-discovery.

In this first of two special International Women’s Month episodes, three solo cyclists share honest stories and practical tips on overcoming fear, handling repairs, and discovering the unexpected kindness of the world one mile at a time.

Mark Graham & Ellie O’Byrne pause their midlife routine for an epic two-year bicycle journey around the world, sharing candid stories of creative funding, mountain climbs, and the incredible kindness of strangers they've met along the way.

After ditching the post-grad grind for a four-year, 35,000km global trek, Coline Berret shares how 29 countries, a Muppet sidekick, and the kindness of strangers completely transformed her outlook on life.

Claire and Bob Rogers, lifelong adventurers and Warmshowers hosts, share how three decades of tandem cycling, cross-continental expeditions, and a spirit of generosity have fueled their passion for travel, cultural connection, and building a global bike touring community.

Josh and Sarah, a couple on an open-ended cycle tour, share how years of setbacks, cultural immersion, and the generosity of the Warmshowers community have reshaped their journey into a life of adventure, slow travel, and connection.

Jessica Sarah Lawrence shares how she combined milestone birthday celebrations, fundraising for youth soccer, and her love of bike touring on a cross-country adventure called Pedal to the Pitch.

Naomi Rouse reflects on six transformative years in Tanzania and how her family’s love of community, adventure, and cycling is leading them on an epic bike journey from Berlin to their home in Bristol.

Ines Hartmuth, a classically trained trumpet player, embarks on a 10-week solo bike tour through southern France, blending spontaneous travel with music to seek creative freedom and personal connection.

Eliza Sampey, an adventurer, bikepacker, and physical therapist, has combined nomadic travel, humanitarian aid, and the joy of exploring wild places by bike.

Sue George, lifelong cyclist and vice president of Bikeflights, explains how her passion for cycling and expertise in bike shipping make touring easier and more accessible for riders everywhere.

Ted Eliason spent nearly four years cycling solo across 56 countries and five continents, embracing challenges, cultural immersion, and personal transformation while navigating the world by bicycle.

Tyler Epstein embraced his lifelong dream of cycling across the country, discovering both the challenges and deep human connections of long-distance bike touring while riding self-supported from Missouri to the Oregon coast.

Simon Brain shares how he and his fiancée went from novice riders to completing a three-year, 35-country round-the-world bike tour, embracing wild camping, unexpected dangers, Warmshowers hospitality, and a life-changing commitment to adventure.

Matthias Schwartz, an Italian cyclist, pedaled 20,000 kilometers from Italy to Iran and back for his best friend’s wedding, discovering remarkable hospitality and cultural connections throughout the Middle East.

Isaak Vanthomme shares how five years and over 60,000 kilometers on the road have shaped his passion for climate awareness, connection with people, and the beauty of living simply while bike touring around the world.

Jeffrey McElfresh, a cyclist living with CMT1A, finds freedom and inspiration through long-distance bike touring while advocating for disability representation on the road.

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 encounters and mutual support during the toughest stretches of the journey.Their story is a celebration of resilience, cultural discovery, and the profound impact of slowing down to savor the human experience. Proving that the real magic of bicycle touring is not just about reaching a destination, but the friendships and wisdom gathered along the way.Catch up with Paul on Instagram at @holidayspirit99 and with Vivien @vivien.touringJoin our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Tahverlee directly at Tahverlee@Warmshowers.org.Special thanks to our sponsor, Bikeflights – the best in bicycle shipping service and boxes, guaranteed.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les KonleyHappy riding and hosting!

Calliope Georgousi, a resilient solo cyclist originally from Greece, shares how a transformative three-month bicycle journey across Europe helped her rediscover her sense of home, deepen her self-reliance, and forge unforgettable connections with people and places along the way.

PL and Kristen Meindertsma, the adventurous couple behind Cycle Five to Survive, are cycling across five continents over five years to raise $2.5 million for five impactful charities, blending their passion for global bikepacking, philanthropy, and meaningful community connection.

Helen Dainty, a self-described "global hobo" and veteran of 90 countries, shares how she built a life of autonomy, adventure, and deep connection through long-distance bicycle touring and the Warmshowers community.

Bruno Peelman, a former communications expert from Belgium, shares how a visit to his daughter in Rwanda inspired him to leave his corporate job and launch a cycling adventure company along the scenic, off-the-beaten-path Congo Nile Trail, blending his passion for biking, organizing, and exploring the hidden gems of Rwanda.

Ken Francis and Philip Robinson reflect on decades of bike touring, the joy of finding the right travel partner, and how shared passions—from roller coasters to warm cycling connections—keep their adventures rolling.

Cat Lau, a visual science communicator and second-generation Chinese Canadian, found empowerment, healing, and connection by riding solo from Vancouver to San Diego, challenging cultural expectations and embracing the freedom and resilience of long-distance cycling.

James Crossley, an artist and bike tour enthusiast, creatively blends art and bicycle touring through his innovative Middle Ground project, a traveling artist residency on a cargo bike that fosters connections across diverse communities.

Ken Reinke, a diabetic and polio survivor, has turned his passion for cycling into an inspirational journey of over 9,000 miles post-60, sharing his love for adventure through both pedaling across the country and his book, "The Road Spoke."

Emma Karslake, an adventurer and cycling tour guide, shares her journey of embracing solo female travel, offering practical tips on bike maintenance and touring confidence, while fostering an empowering message for women to embark on their own cycling adventures.

Ben Clark is living his best life cycling through diverse cultures, navigating challenges, and sharing his global bicycle touring adventure while gaining personal fulfillment and inspiring others.

Mark Tovell captures the essence of Taiwan's diverse landscapes, welcoming locals, and the unique challenges of high-altitude roads while sharing his story and insights with fellow touring cyclists.

Scott Sharick, a resilient cyclist and photographer, has found an inspiring way to blend the freedom of around-the-world bicycle touring, the drive to maintain health after a stroke, a minimalist lifestyle, and a deep appreciation for the cultures of Southeast Asia.

Lisa Watts, author of "Crossing Bridges," shares her transformative 3,000-mile cycling journey along the East Coast Greenway, blending the thrill of long-distance biking, insights into aging gracefully, and the joy of meaningful connections.

Justin Wolfenberg and his children, Henry and Leila, recount their transformative summer cycling the Transamerica route, overcoming personal challenges and encountering heartwarming acts of kindness along their journey.

In this repeat episode from 2022, Sheelagh Daly, a holistic nutritionist and avid cyclist from Ontario, shares her inspiring journey of solo bike touring across Europe.

Spencer McCullough, an environmental advocate from Denver, combines his passion for cycling, nature conservation, and community building by embarking on a 411-day journey to visit all national parks in the lower 48 states, advocating for bike-friendly campgrounds along the way.

Liz Pomeroy, known in the music world as 0Stella, has seamlessly blended her passion for music, a dedication to environmental consciousness, and the adventurous spirit of long-distance bicycle touring.

Jeff Jinnett, an avid cyclist and experienced bike tourer, shares the challenges and rewards of his cross-country adventures, highlighting the evolution of gear and the camaraderie among cyclists.

Chris Clinch has embraced the simplicity of minimalism, faced life's challenges, including type 1 diabetes, with resilience, and discovered the profound hospitality of South America while advocating for sustainable travel and cross-cultural connections.

Jerry Gore, a passionate climber and humanitarian, shares his harrowing journey cycling from London to Kyiv to raise awareness and funds for children with type 1 diabetes, shedding light on the impact of the Ukraine war while inspiring kindness and compassion along the way.

Karolin Windhuber, a passionate cyclist and advocate for World Bicycle Relief, shares her transformative journey from Germany to Turkey, highlighting the profound impact of bicycles on rural mobility and the joy of slow travel.

Ken Francis and Philip Robinson, veteran touring cyclists, share their adventures of riding roller coasters, cycling through diverse landscapes, and the camaraderie that has fueled their 25-year journey together.

Agathe Daudibon, the tourism director at the European Cyclists’ Federation, provides an insightful overview of EuroVelo routes and shares how their partnership with Warmshowers is amplifying the global cycling community.

Florian Coupe, a passionate cyclist and adventurer, shares his remarkable journey of biking from France to Korea for the World Scout Jamboree, aiming to inspire youth through sustainable transport and the spirit of adventure.

Ville and Kristen Jokinen, a daring couple who undertook an adventurous 18,000-mile bike journey, share their tales of wildlife encounters, human kindness, and the unexpected community they found along the way.

Ken Francis and fellow Warmshowers hosts from Southern California share their enriching experiences of community building, reciprocity, connection, and the joy of hosting touring cyclists.

Giulia Baroncini, an adventurous bike tourer and blogger, shares her inspirational 5-month cycling journey, rekindling the spirit of early bike touring pioneer Luigi Masetti and the historical footsteps she followed from Italy to Chicago.

Alissa Bell, a passionate bike tourist and founder of Bike Sleep Bike and Exploring Wild, shares her journey from a life-changing trip in Africa to building a community project that showcases personal bike travel stories from around the world.

The Bennek family has embarked on a life-changing cycle touring adventure of intentional living, slow travel, and community connections as they navigate life on the open road.

Ride along on the adventures and challenges of Hanna Ollos and Jonas Sommer as they bike their way from Germany to Southeast Asia, promoting biodiversity and nature conservation.

Richard Martin, aka Murdock, discovered Warmshowers entirely by chance. Eight years and 200 guests later, Murdock has become a hosting legend!

Jane Hertenstein, a talented writer, and experienced cyclist, shares stories of her solo bike trips and the importance of documenting personal experiences through writing in a flash memoir style she created.

Melissa Pritchard shares her inspiring journey of cycling around the world and the transformative impact it had on her life and those she encountered along the way.

Kenneth Wilson, the highway cellist, shares his extraordinary “work of art” journey touring with his cello on his bike.

Meet Brandon Bell, who is on a bike journey of self-discovery to find his purpose and contribute positively to the world amidst the environmental crisis.

Meet Reija Kime, a cyclist and cancer survivor who embarked on a 10-week cycle tour through Europe, sharing her inspiring journey and experiences along the way.

In this episode of Bike Life, host Tahverlee chats with Ken Francis to discuss the transformative power of cycling, mental health, and the importance of connecting with others through platforms like Warmshowers.

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.

George Balarezo shares his thrilling adventure through Ethiopia, the challenges he faced, and the fascinating stories he encountered along the way.

Ride along on the adventures and challenges of Hanna Ollos and Jonas Sommer as they bike their way from Germany to Southeast Asia promoting biodiversity and nature conservation.

Join us as we dive into Dan’s unforgettable cross-country journey and discover the transformative power of embracing the unknown.

Whether you're an experienced tandem cyclist or just starting, there are many benefits to tandem cycling with a partner.

At the age of 40, Tadeo Pueyrredon took his dream journey and biked the entire Argentinian Route 40, a trip of 5200 km that took him four months to complete.

Sara Qiu Ruan has embarked on a life-changing adventure, conquering her fears and cycling with the profound purpose of helping people.

First-time long-distance cycler, Tyler Diedrick, recounts this epic tale of a sometimes funny, sometimes scary, but always adventurous bike tour.

Adventurer, Jo Davies, is on an incredible adventure riding her bike from Boston, MA, home to the UK, via the “scenic route.”

Hear from the Warmshowers 2022 Bike Giveaway winner, retired fireman and professional grandpa Steve Diaz.

What do you get when you combine a historian interested in learning about people and a love of bicycling?

Sanna Ghotbi and Benjamin Ladraa are bike travelers and activists from Sweden, who are on an epic 2-year, 48 000 km journey through 40 countries to Western Sahara.

Meet Tucker Atwood, a math teacher, actor, author, and adventurer.

Richard Martin, aka Murdock, discovered Warmshowers entirely by chance. Eight years and 200 guests later, Murdock has become a hosting legend!

Meet Kanishka Poddar, the Bicycle Mayor of Ranchi, India.

You never know what will happen when you stay with a Warmshowers host; when Adriel Klein’s host’s door opened, he met the love of his life!

Kari Loya recounts his 73-day, 4,600-mile cross-country journey of a lifetime with his 75-year-old dad battling early-stage Alzheimer’s.

Pam and Glen Goodnough married 40 years ago during their first cross-country bike tour together and have not slowed down since!

With over 30 years of experience, John Bolton knows a thing or two about cycling and the gear that goes with it and shares his vast knowledge on his YouTube channel called Cycling on a Shoestring.

On separate bike tours, two people from different parts of the country cross routes in Midland, MI, and become Matt and Kathy’s first-ever Warmshowers’ guests.

Sal Garro shares his joy of cycling, how his tricycle became known as the Pizza Bike, and how it serves as his commuter vehicle, cargo hauler, family bike, and adventure machine.

Meet Tarra Gundrum who created possible by setting off on her first solo bike tour without knowing anything about cycle touring!

Meet UK resident Antony Butcher who cycled across America on a healing journey full of adventure and wonderfully serendipitous moments.

Sustainability, environment, cycling, community, leadership, and bamboo; these are all passions of today’s guest, Warmshowers Board Member Lucy Binfield.

If you have ever dreamt about cycling in Australia, then stay tuned to learn about the world-class, off-road cycling experience known as The Munda Biddi Trail.

Meet Ben Grannis who was so inspired by someone else’s story it prompted him to begin a 10,000 mile journey to raise awareness for distracted driving and promote digital wellness.

Daniel Stein believes you experience the best of humanity from a bicycle seat.

Anne Breedlove knows that retirement doesn’t have to be boring, especially when you set off for eight years of cycling approximately 30,000 miles through 21 countries!

Meet Joe Diomede, a cyclist who has pursued his passion for seeing the world on two wheels and has authored a book about his many adventures.

Meet Chuck and Susan Atkinson; they have hosted almost 300 cyclists in their home in the Balkans who have all left unique handprints in their lives.

If you are a cycle tourer who takes the ability to tour on your own for granted, then meet Priyanka Dalal who has overcome many cultural barriers to become the first known female solo cycle tourer from India.

Meet the Gillis Family and discover how bike touring with kids is the ultimate family bonding adventure.

Do you want to get into cycling without breaking the bank? With over 30-years of experience, John Bolton knows a lot about cycling and the gear that goes with it!

Meet Claude Marthaler – a self-described Cyclonaute. For Claude, traveling by bike is a way of life. He has spent the past 16 years biking around the world and has authored 11 books and bike travelogues. From 1994 to 2001, Claude spent an incredible seven years on a solo bike tour traveling through 60 countries and biking over 122,000 kms. He loves the mountains and hiking and has spent a lot of time crisscrossing the Himalayas by bike, concentrating on Tibet, the very center of his inner geography.Claude says he needs to move to be able to write, so that's why he is always on his bike. He believes it is a privilege to travel by bicycle, without walls and in closer contact with nature. Bike travel is very slow and has great purpose and intent. Claude lives by the motto of "pouring kindness" on others and giving back more than you have received along the way. Five things Claude wants you to know:People's kindness, helpfulness, and hospitality in poor countries are heartwarming.Many things are possible to realize, many more than one believes.Being open to the world in terms of time and attitude allows things to happen naturally.The Internet has reshaped our ways of bike traveling and looking at the world, not always for the better.Traveling and taking time on the road makes us creative and introduces us to interesting people. Time spent on a bicycle belongs entirely to us; we can be in the here and now, remaining empty and dreaming. You can learn more about Claude and follow his adventures on his website at Claude Marthaler- Cyclonaute.Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org and visit us on Facebook. Contact Tahverlee directly at Tahverlee@Warmshowers.org.Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les Konley Happy riding and hosting!