
Advertise on podcast: Road Tales with Levi & Cole
Rating
4.7from
This podcast has
35 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
Cole KesslerExplicit
Yes
Date created
2026/01/02
Latest episode
2026/10/21
Average duration
45 min.
Release period
8 days
Description
Levi Leipheimer and Cole Kessler share stories from two vastly different eras of professional cycling. Levi was one of the best professional cyclists in the world in the 2000s and Cole is new to the professional peloton, but is a two-time national champion.
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Check latest episodes from Road Tales with Levi & Cole podcast
Road Tales Ep. 30 | Lachlan Morton
2026/10/21
The conversation revolves around Lachlan's recent experience completing the Pony Express ride, discussing the challenges, strategies, and personal reflections from the journey. The dialogue also touches on the differences between competitive racing and long-distance adventures, emphasizing the mental and physical aspects of endurance cycling. The conversation explores the emotional and psychological aspects of cycling, focusing on the balance between performance and personal happiness. The speakers reflect on their experiences in racing, the pursuit of enlightenment through cycling, and the importance of embracing both successes and failures.
Takeaways
Endurance cycling offers unique mental clarityBalancing enjoyment and commitment is key Balance performance with happinessEmbrace both success and failure
Chapters
00:00 Morning Rides and Plans03:02 The Pony Express Experience05:52 Challenges of Endurance Cycling08:54 Historical Context of the Pony Express11:51 Sleep Strategies and Recovery15:08 Post-Ride Reflections17:51 Mental Reset Through Cycling21:00 Finding Flow in Endurance24:01 Advice for Aspiring Cyclists31:30 Finding Balance in Racing32:11 Chasing Enlightenment on the Bike33:30 The Process of Growth38:28 Accepting Reality and Suffering43:57 Transitioning from Professional Racing46:18 The Fragility of Self-Identity54:25 Celebrating Achievements55:34 Memorable Races of the Year
Road Tales Ep. 29 | Christian Vande Velde
2026/10/12
The conversation features Christian Vande Velde discussing his experiences in cycling, particularly his time in Girona and his transition from a cyclist to a commentator. The dialogue explores the evolution of Girona as a cycling hub, the challenges faced during races, and the camaraderie among cyclists and their support teams. The conversation delves into the experiences of professional cyclists, focusing on their memories of racing, living arrangements, and the evolution of cycling culture. The participants share anecdotes about their past, including humorous moments and reflections on the changes in the sport over the years. The conversation delves into the experiences and reflections of professional cyclists Christian Vande Velde and Levi, focusing on their careers, memorable moments, and the challenges faced in the sport. They share insights on training, competition, and the balance between personal life and professional commitments.
Takeaways
Cycling culture in GironaChallenges of race commentary Nostalgia for cycling's pastEvolution of cycling culture Embrace the process of cyclingBalance training with personal life
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Cycling in Girona03:07 Christian's Journey to Girona06:01 The Evolution of Girona's Cycling Scene08:59 Life as a Cycling Commentator11:59 The Thrills and Dangers of Race Commentary15:00 Heat Challenges in Cycling Races17:55 The Importance of Recovery in Cycling20:49 Motorpacing Memories22:14 Living Arrangements and Adaptations24:31 Communication Challenges in Early Cycling26:10 Evolving Cycling Culture in Girona28:02 Olympic Experiences and Team Dynamics30:12 Historic Moments in US Cycling34:40 The USA Pro Challenge Story40:23 Racing Reflections and Rivalries43:40 Proudest Career Moments46:08 Training and Preparation Insights49:10 Life After Cycling: Home and Balance51:01 Handling Disappointments in Cycling54:40 The Importance of Process and Focus
Road Tales Ep. 28 | World Championships Recap
2026/10/05
The conversation revolves around the experiences of Cole and Levi in cycling, discussing Cole's recovery from a racing season, the dynamics of off-season training, and the recent World Championships where Team USA excelled. They delve into the strategies, performances, and implications of the race results, particularly focusing on the teamwork and individual efforts that led to success. The conversation delves into the dynamics of professional cycling, focusing on recent races, athlete performances, and the challenges faced by cyclists. Key discussions include the unpredictability of one-day races, the significance of various championships, and the evolving nature of cycling competitions. The conversation explores various topics related to cycling, including Olympic events, training strategies, and personal anecdotes from the speakers' experiences in Girona. The discussion highlights the evolution of cycling disciplines and the importance of strength training for cyclists.
Takeaways
Teamwork is crucial in cyclingOff-season recovery can be challenging Cycling races are unpredictableChampionships hold significant value Olympic cycling events discussedImportance of strength training
Chapters
00:00 Navigating Recovery and Off-Season Challenges02:59 The Dynamics of Team USA at Worlds05:57 Analyzing Race Strategies and Performances09:04 The Impact of Individual Riders on Team Success11:57 Reflections on Cycling's Competitive Landscape15:03 The Role of Luck in Winning Races18:03 Future of American Cycling and Team Legacy23:56 The Unpredictability of One-Day Races28:32 The Significance of Championships32:44 Dominance in Women's Cycling34:20 Memorable Moments of the Season37:03 The Impact of Injuries on Performance41:50 The Future of Mountain Biking in Cycling43:55 Olympic Cycling Course Insights45:16 Cyclocross and Its Popularity46:45 Team Pursuit and Track Cycling49:55 Personal Anecdotes and Memories51:57 Life in Girona and Cycling Routes54:47 The Hincapie Loop and Local Cycling Culture58:21 Golf Obsession and Personal Goals01:00:55 Strength Training for Cyclists
Road Tales Ep. 27 | inside MVDP's 170km solo win & Worlds Prediction
2026/09/22
The conversation covers the experience of a hundred-mile trail run, the challenges faced, nutrition, hallucinations, and the emotional finish. It also delves into a cycling race, the performance of a cyclist, and the history of a memorial race. The conversation covers topics related to cycling, recovery, equipment, and lifestyle choices. It also delves into environmental considerations and air quality. The hosts discuss the use of compression boots, foam rolling, and the impact of forest fires on air quality. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including sleep quality, health, professional cycling, and talent scouting. The hosts also discuss upcoming events and share predictions for the world's road race.
Takeaways
Ultra-endurance events involve physical and mental challenges.Cycling races can be grueling and require exceptional physical and mental strength. Recovery methods like massage, compression boots, and foam rolling are essential for cyclists.Environmental factors like forest fires can impact air quality and influence lifestyle choices.The use of air purifiers and cooling pads can mitigate the effects of poor air quality on health and well-being. Sleep quality and its impact on healthProfessional cycling and talent scoutingPredictions for the world's road race
Chapters
00:00 The Hundred-Mile Trail Run02:49 Challenges and Hallucinations08:18 Cycling Race and Memorial Race20:37 Recovery and Recovery Methods21:27 Equipment and Cycling Lifestyle23:14 Environmental Considerations and Air Quality29:45 Lifestyle Choices and Health32:51 Cycling and Environmental Impact37:00 Air Quality and Home Environment39:10 Sleep Quality and Health43:07 Professional Cycling and Talent Scouting53:40 Predictions for the World's Road Race
Road Tales Ep. 26 | Can USA Win the World Championships
2026/09/10
Levi shares his experience at Burning Man, highlighting the journey to and from the event, the art, music, and community aspects of the festival. The conversation then transitions to a discussion about cycling and the current state of the sport. The conversation covers topics such as racing experiences, health challenges, upcoming events, and future aspirations. It also delves into the significance of work-life balance and the impact of personal relationships on performance. The discussion concludes with a mention of a potential grand tour participation.
Takeaways
Burning Man is a unique experience that combines art, music, and community in a desert setting.The world of cycling and its current state are discussed, highlighting the lack of American success at the World Road Race. Racing experiences and challengesImportance of work-life balanceImpact of personal relationships on performanceAspirations for grand tour participation
Chapters
00:00 Burning Man Experience02:55 Art, Music, and Community at Burning Man12:01 Cycling and the World Road Race18:37 Racing Experiences and Challenges21:17 Health Challenges and Work-Life Balance24:01 Upcoming Events and Aspirations26:55 Personal Relationships and Performance36:13 Aspirations for Grand Tour Participation
Pro Cycling's Nutrition Secrets | Dr. Tim Podlogar
2026/08/24
The conversation covers Tim's journey from a non-cyclist to a lecturer in applied physiology and a consultant in sports nutrition. It delves into topics such as carbohydrate oxidation rates, the impact of high-carb diets, the role of fat metabolism in cycling, and the use of supplements for performance improvement. Additionally, it explores the importance of recovery nutrition and the potential benefits of creatine and beta-alanine. The conversation covers a range of topics related to nutrition and performance for endurance athletes, including body weight management, fiber intake, pre-race breakfast, fueling strategies, sweat tests, electrolyte needs, core temperature testing, protein intake, and altitude training. The discussion emphasizes the importance of balancing macronutrients, optimizing fueling strategies, and understanding the impact of altitude on energy balance and performance.
Takeaways
Carbohydrate oxidation rates play a crucial role in endurance sports performance.The use of supplements like creatine, beta-alanine, and sodium bicarbonate can impact performance and recovery. Balancing macronutrients is crucial for optimizing fueling strategies and performance.Altitude training requires careful attention to energy balance and should not be used solely for weight loss.
Chapters
00:00 Tim's Journey to Sports Nutrition02:52 Carbohydrate Oxidation Rates and Nutrition Strategies05:51 The Role of Fat Metabolism in Cycling10:12 Supplements for Performance Improvement24:55 Importance of Recovery Nutrition30:02 Body Weight Management and Glycogen Stores31:05 Fiber Intake and Low Residue Diet33:06 Pre-Race Breakfast and Fueling Strategies39:06 Sweat Tests, Electrolyte Needs, and Core Temperature Testing49:42 Protein Intake and Altitude Training
Road Tales Ep. 25 | Arctic Race of Norway Debrief
2026/08/18
The conversation covers Levi's recent cycling race in Switzerland and Cole's experience at the Arctic Race of Norway. It also delves into the challenges faced during the races, the scenic beauty of the locations, and the local cuisine. The conversation covers topics related to endurance racing, weather conditions, winter preparation, and mountain sports. It also delves into the challenges of racing at high altitudes and the differences between road and gravel racing. The discussion concludes with plans for upcoming races and events. The conversation covers topics related to cycling, upcoming races, race strategies, and future plans. It also delves into the concept of six degrees of separation and the butterfly effect. The discussion provides insights into the world of professional cycling and the dynamics of race preparation and participation.
Takeaways
Cycling races in Switzerland and Norway offer unique challenges and breathtaking scenery.Local cuisine in Norway, including dried fish and salty licorice, may not be to everyone's taste.The strategic and physical demands of racing, as well as the camaraderie and teamwork involved, are key aspects of the cycling experience. Endurance racing challengesWinter preparation for racingAltitude and racing challengesTactical differences between road and gravel racing Cycling race strategiesUpcoming races and race preparation
Chapters
00:00 Cycling Race in Switzerland17:27 Arctic Race of Norway28:31 Endurance Racing and Weather Conditions30:51 Winter Preparation and Mountain Sports31:35 Altitude and Racing Challenges48:55 Tactical Differences in Road and Gravel Racing49:16 Upcoming Races and Events50:08 Upcoming Races and Race Preparation59:44 The Concept of Six Degrees of Separation and the Butterfly Effect01:04:26 Professional Cycling and Race Dynamics
Road Tales Ep. 24 | Catching Up Before Arctic Race of Norway
2026/08/08
The conversation covers topics such as cycling, training, upcoming races, fundraising events, and travel plans. It also delves into the experience of altitude camps, favorite cycling routes, and social activities in Girona and Andorra. The discussion provides insights into the training routines, race preparations, and the evolving physical condition of the participants. The conversation covers topics related to travel, cycling, and lifestyle in Spain and the US. It also delves into the challenges and experiences of living in Spain, as well as the excitement of upcoming events and activities.
Takeaways
Cycling training and race preparationAltitude camps and favorite cycling routesSocial activities and travel plans Travel plans and experiences in SpainCycling challenges and experiencesLifestyle and cultural differences in Spain
Chapters
00:00 Cycling Training and Race Preparation13:11 Altitude Camps and Favorite Cycling Routes21:42 Social Activities and Travel Plans24:26 Travel Plans and Experiences25:14 Cycling Challenges and Experiences36:39 Lifestyle and Cultural Differences
Road Tales Ep. 23 | Tour de France Champs Elysees 2026
2026/07/26
The conversation covers the thrilling battles of the Tour de France, memorable moments, unexpected outcomes, and the impact of key riders on the future of cycling. It delves into the excitement of the race, the surprising performances of certain riders, and the influence of top cyclists on the sport's future.
Takeaways
Exciting battles in the Tour de FranceThe impact of key riders on the future of cycling
Chapters
00:00 The Thrilling Battles of the Tour de France05:01 Memorable Moments and Unexpected Outcomes10:03 The Impact of Key Riders on the Future of Cycling
Stage 17 Tour de France 2026
2026/07/22
The conversation delves into a detailed analysis of the Tour de France stage, highlighting team performance, strategy, and rider assessment. It provides insights into the dynamics of the race, the challenges faced by teams, and predictions for upcoming stages.
Takeaways
Tour de France stage analysisTeam performance and strategyRider assessment and predictions
Chapters
00:00 Tour de France Stage Analysis01:03 Team Performance and Strategy03:04 Rider Assessment and Predictions
Road Tales Ep. 22 | Tour de France 2026 | Remco DESTORYS Time Trial
2026/07/21
The conversation delves into the art of time trial, exploring the beauty of the discipline and the impact of technology on performance. It then shifts to the mental resilience required in cycling, discussing strategies for maintaining mental focus and the mental challenges of long-distance races. Finally, it explores the grueling nature of endurance and ultra-distance events, highlighting the appeal and challenges of extreme endurance sports. The conversation covers topics such as endurance sports and performance, T.T. Pogacar and Remco, stage analysis and rider performance, upcoming stage and breakaway predictions, Tour de France G.C. analysis, and cycling memories and nostalgia. The discussion provides insights into attitude in endurance sports, power to CDA in uphill cycling, strategic considerations for the stage, G.C. analysis, and nostalgic cycling memories.
Takeaways
The evolution of time trial technology has significantly impacted performance in cycling.Mental resilience and focus are crucial for success in long-distance races and endurance events. Attitude in endurance sportsPower to CDA in uphill cyclingStrategic considerations for the stageG.C. analysisNostalgic cycling memories
Chapters
00:00 The Art of Time Trial10:00 Mental Resilience in Cycling20:00 Endurance and Ultra-Distance Events30:46 Endurance Sports and Performance32:18 T.T. Pogacar and Remco33:45 Stage Analysis and Rider Performance37:02 Upcoming Stage and Breakaway Predictions44:26 Tour de France G.C. Analysis49:22 Cycling Memories and Nostalgia
Jonas Vingegaard Crashes Out of the Tour de France!
2026/07/19
The conversation covers topics such as the impact of Jonas' absence, Tate's decision to let Remco win, the potential outcomes of the race, and the controversy surrounding early morning testing by WADA. The conversation covers a range of topics including the French attitude towards winners, the upcoming Arctic Race of Norway, and personal experiences of the speakers. They also discuss the Tour de France, the challenges of a mountain bike race, and the crowded conditions in Tahoe. The conversation is a mix of personal anecdotes, race insights, and casual banter.
Takeaways
Jonas' absence has had a significant impact on the raceTate's decision to let Remco win raises questions about team strategy and sportsmanship French attitude towards winnersUpcoming Arctic Race of NorwayChallenges of a mountain bike raceCrowded conditions in Tahoe
Chapters
00:00 The Impact of Jonas' Absence01:16 Tate's Decision to Let Remco Win03:18 Potential Outcomes of the Race25:11 Controversy Surrounding Early Morning Testing by WADA32:36 French Attitude Towards Winners36:00 Arctic Race of Norway38:18 Challenges of a Mountain Bike Race57:25 Crowded Conditions in Tahoe
Road Tales Ep. 21 | Tour de France 2026 | Stage 8-13
2026/07/17
The conversation covers a detailed analysis of Tour de France stages, the impact of heat on training and performance, preparation for a best man speech, and the dynamics of sprint finishes in cycling races. The conversation covers strategic decisions in cycling, race predictions, bike technology, team dynamics, and the impact of environmental factors on the health and performance of cyclists.
Takeaways
Tour de France stage analysisHeat training and performanceBest man speech preparationSprint finish dynamics Team GC in cycling is based on the cumulative time of the top three riders from each team.The impact of environmental factors, such as air conditioning and humidity, on the health and performance of cyclists.
Chapters
00:00 Tour de France Stage Analysis03:04 Heat Training and Performance08:04 Best Man Speech Preparation16:05 Sprint Finish Dynamics23:48 Strategic Decisions in Cycling24:22 Mountain Stages and Race Predictions28:09 Bike Technology and Equipment32:37 Team Dynamics and Tactics40:12 Environmental Factors and Health
Tour De France Stage 7 Preview
2026/07/09
The conversation covers the dominance of Pogacar in the Tour de France and the performance of sprinters, as well as their contracts. Pogacar's exceptional performance and the potential podium finish of Remco are discussed. The conversation also delves into the performance and contracts of sprinters, particularly focusing on Olav Coy's recent dominance and his lucrative contract.
Takeaways
Pogacar's dominanceSprinters' performance and contracts
Chapters
00:00 Pogacar's Dominance03:19 Sprinters' Performance and Contracts
Tour de France Stage 6 Preview
2026/07/09
The conversation delves into the strategic considerations for the upcoming stage, focusing on Pogacar's potential to gain time, tactical decisions, and predictions for the stage. Key players and potential winners are discussed, providing insights into the stage's dynamics and potential outcomes.
Takeaways
Strategic considerations for the stagePotential winners and key players
Chapters
00:00 Tactical Decisions and Predictions for the Stage
Podcast reviews
Read Road Tales with Levi & Cole podcast reviews
Simon Says Cycling 2026/08/10
Interesting and entertaining
Cole and Levi do a great job. I really appreciate Levi’s honesty and wealth on knowledge. There is a lot to learn from his experience racing at the hi...
Kmp1216 2026/03/25
Boring and lacks any substance
I tried to like this podcast because I’m a big cycling fan and I like to hear from those who are in the sport and have been previously. But this podca...
Dhhdfsehnicdrutenjiwdhji 2026/03/02
Quality, new podcast! Great chemistry of Levi and Cole-new kid
I love this new pod, pure, honest, informative, great new and old cycling stories and perspectives. Good to hear Levi’s voice again. Enjoy pod, until ...
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