Road Adventures of Cycling Men of Leisure - podcast cover

Road Adventures of Cycling Men of Leisure

Adam Baranski & Michael Sharpwww.cyclingmenofleisure.com

Adam and Michael share a long friendship fueled by their love for cycling. Through ups and downs, they have pedaled side by side, creating a rich tapestry of experiences and playful banter that underscores their connection. Their adventures highlight the joy of authentic friendship, whether tackling tough trails or enjoying leisurely rides. If you're looking for a podcast that embodies friendship and cycling excitement, join them on this audio journey. They share engaging stories and welcome you to their cycling community, offering entertaining anecdotes and heartfelt discussions about the joy of exploring the open road. This podcast delivers an uplifting cycling experience.




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Episodes

The Hose That Derailed RAIN: A Cycling Mishap Story

Send us a text When the unexpected strikes, how do you adapt? Michael shares the story of his recent cycling accident where he encountered an almost-invisible brown hose stretched across concrete pavement during a training ride. With just seconds to react, his front tire turned 90 degrees, sending him face-first onto the road, resulting in a fractured clavicle and extensive road rash. This first-ever broken bone in thousands of cycling miles comes with particularly unfortunate timing—just 19 day...

Jul 06, 20251 hr 13 minSeason 4Ep. 15

Hills, Thrills, and Go-Kart Racing: Our Georgia Adventure Continues

Send us a text The Georgia hills couldn't break us! Picking up where we left off, Adam and Michael complete their wild journey across Georgia with the BRAG cycling event, sharing every triumph, challenge, and laugh along the way. Our layover day in Dawsonville delivers pure adrenaline as we race high-performance go-karts at AMP track, where Michael edges out Adam by just four one-hundredths of a second (a fact Adam graciously acknowledges... eventually). But the adventure doesn't stop there—we h...

Jun 22, 20251 hr 43 minSeason 4Ep. 14

43 Cycling Men and Women of Leisure, One Moonshine Distillery, and a Three-Headed Medusa Hill

Send us a text Saddle up for an exhilarating journey across Georgia with the Cycling Men of Leisure as we lead our largest-ever team of 43 riders through the challenging Appalachian foothills. This episode captures the first half of our fourth consecutive BRAG (Bike Ride Across Georgia) adventure, where the terrain proved anything but flat. From Rome to Jasper to Dawsonville, we navigate the notorious "Three-Headed Medusa Hill" – a punishing 14% grade climb that humbled even the most experienced...

Jun 12, 20251 hr 10 minSeason 4Ep. 13

Weather Tech for Cyclists, The Art of Full-Service Charters: A New Way for Cycling Men Of Leisure to experience BRAG

Send us a text Adventure meets technology in this gear-up episode as Adam and Michael prepare for their upcoming Bicycle Ride Across Georgia (BRAG) journey and explore essential tech tools for cyclists. The duo celebrates a milestone moment when Adam correctly guesses Huntsville, Alabama as the previous Listener Spotlight location—the rocket city that inspired Elton John's iconic song. This rare victory sparks friendly banter as they share how multiple listeners submitted correct answers for the...

May 25, 20251 hr 3 minSeason 4Ep. 12

Cycling Through Dawsonville: Waterfalls, Go-Karts, and Mother's Day Adventures

Send us a text Mother's Day meets cycling adventures in this spirited episode where we dive into the exciting plans for Big Brag 2025 with Executive Director Franklin Johnson. Before our special interview, we share some cycling-related Mother's Day facts and celebrate that our upcoming Big Brag adventure coincides with World Bicycle Day on June 3rd! Michael regales us with tales from the Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting, complete with plentiful Dairy Queen ice cream and Warren Buffett's r...

May 11, 202558 minSeason 4Ep. 11

Tariffs, Training, and Theme Songs from Bonanza

Send us a text Balancing indoor training with ambitious road adventures takes center stage as Michael shares his surprisingly successful Peloton strategy—hiding the time and distance metrics that once dominated his attention. While Adam admits to having fancy indoor training equipment that rarely sees use, both hosts recognize the value of winter preparation as they gear up for their most ambitious challenge yet. July will find our Cycling Men of Leisure tackling the RAIN Ride—an epic 165-mile s...

Apr 27, 20251 hr 1 minSeason 4Ep. 10

Two Wheels and Fire Water: The Guys Who Never Train But Always Ride

Send us a text The unique balance of practical cycling wisdom and lighthearted camaraderie takes center stage as Adam and Michael reunite to share their latest adventures. After catching up on life updates, they dive into preparations for their upcoming summer cycling challenge featuring nearly 20,000 feet of climbing. With characteristic humor, they laugh about the recurring question they face: "Have you been training?" – always asked with a knowing smirk. The conversation takes a fascinating d...

Apr 13, 202559 minSeason 4Ep. 9

The bicycle industry faces dramatic shifts as traditional tours struggle to survive.

Send us a text Shane Cusick takes us on a fascinating journey through the transforming landscape of cycling, drawing from his rich experiences as both the former tour director of Bike Virginia and founder of Pello Bikes, a children's bicycle company focused on quality and performance. The cycling world stands at a crossroads. Traditional multi-day cycling tours that once drew thousands of participants are now struggling to survive. Shane reveals how Bike Virginia, which previously attracted 2,00...

Mar 30, 20251 hr 35 minSeason 4Ep. 8

Let’s Make It Leisurely: How Cycling Adventures Can Transform Your Experience

Send us a text Dive into a new episode of Cycling Men of Leisure where the joy of cycling truly takes center stage! We're excited to share stories, updates, and insights from our community of cycling enthusiasts. The journey is as rewarding as the ride itself, and in this episode, we showcase memorable experiences and playful anecdotes—from planning new jersey designs to tackling the upcoming RAIN Ride adventure. We feel a strong connection with our audience as we explore leisure cycling’s light...

Mar 16, 20251 hr 9 minSeason 4Ep. 7

From Florida Sunshine to Frosty Returns, and Cycling Adventures: A Journey of Laughter and Leisure with Adam, Michael, Jimmy and Dave

Send us a text Returning from the sunshine of Florida to the frosty embrace of home brought a mix of joy and challenges, a journey Adam and I, Michael, recount with warmth and humor. Ever wondered about the true fashion crime of bucket hats? We tackle this hard-hitting issue, fueled by listener feedback, while also sharing heartwarming stories from our leisure community, like Rob Menser’s update on the RAIN event and Armando’s inspiring comeback story. We keep the laughs going with a spirited de...

Mar 02, 20251 hr 20 minSeason 4Ep. 6

Scenic Spins, Dining Disasters, and Cycling Surprises: A Journey of Friendship and Fun in Florida with the Men of Leisure

Send us a text Ever tried scoring discounted wood using purple paint or faced assumptions about your friendship with a dining buddy at Disney? Join us on "Road Adventures with Cycling Men of Leisure" as Adam and Michael take a light-hearted journey through the sunny realms of Florida. We explore the amusing clash of Michael's work commitments with Adam's leisurely golf outings, and the surprising creation of our makeshift studio. Our listener community is also buzzing with divided opinions on ke...

Feb 16, 20251 hr 10 minSeason 4Ep. 5

Travel Tales and Hilarious Hijinks with the Men of Leisure

Send us a text Ever wondered how a traveler with a stepladder or an unexpected hot dog order could spark a whole adventure? Join us as we embark on our Podfest 2025 journey in Orlando, where quirky encounters and laugh-out-loud mishaps are the norm. Whether it's our friend Armando gifting us a camera with a backstory or narrowly avoiding an escalator-induced trip to the ER, rest assured, our stories will keep you entertained. And yes, Disney security made an unexpected cameo—who knew recording a...

Feb 02, 202553 minSeason 4Ep. 4

Podfest Adventures, Golf Swings, and Holiday Debates: A Journey Through Florida, Spokane, and Beyond with Laughter and Leisure

Send us a text What do you get when you mix the unpredictable weather of Florida, a podcast convention, and a couple of golf enthusiasts? Join us as we recount our whirlwind adventure at Podfest 2025, where we mingled with podcasters from all walks of life, thanks to Buzzsprout's generous creator tickets. From insightful sessions on monetization to quirky custom keychains, our experience was a melting pot of creativity and learning. Amidst the hustle and bustle, we found time to hit the golf cou...

Jan 19, 202556 minSeason 4Ep. 3

Pedals, Podcasts, and Leisure Pursuits: A Journey of Cycling Adventures and Creative Collaboration

Send us a text How does the thrill of cycling adventures blend seamlessly with the allure of leisure pursuits like distilleries and cigar bars? Join us as we kick off the year with a burst of excitement—planning our participation in the Big Brag 2025 cycling event and setting our sights on Orlando for golf, great eats, and Podfest 2025. We're not just cycling; we're capturing the essence of these adventures with high-quality audio and video content. From the laughs over quirky app notifications ...

Jan 05, 202545 minSeason 4Ep. 2

Special New Years Day Route Release with BRAG as we talk about, Whiskey Toasts, Family Tales, and Cycling Escapades: Journeying Through Georgia and Beyond with Franklin Johnson

Send us a text Fan-favorite Franklin Johnson returns to our podcast, bringing with him tales of family, adventure, and the much-anticipated Big Brag 2025 event. We kick things off with a choice between Cycling Men of Leisure whiskey and a treasured Suntory 12-year whiskey—a gift from Franklin's wife, Heather. As we toast to good times, Franklin updates us on his growing family, including the timely arrival of their newest addition, Ari. From enjoying family vacation videos to admiring Heather's ...

Jan 01, 20251 hr 43 minSeason 4Ep. 1

Farewell Rides, Bourbon Hopes, and Cycling Dreams: A Nostalgic Journey with Adam and Michael

Send us a text What happens when a beloved cycling tradition comes to an unexpected end? Let's reminisce about the Ride the Rockies, a cherished Colorado cycling event that has left us with both fond memories and unfulfilled dreams. As we ponder the fading glory of this iconic ride, we cast our eyes on the Bourbon Burn, a ride that may soon face a similar fate. With its charming camp atmosphere and distillery visits, we find ourselves planning one last hurrah, embracing the chance to savor those...

Dec 22, 20241 hr 1 minSeason 3Ep. 27

Smoked Hams, Sunny Escapes, and Holiday Tales: A Festive Journey with Adam and Michael

Send us a text Ever wondered what it’s like to transition from snowy Michigan to sunny Florida? Or to smoke your first Thanksgiving ham? Join us as we share our holiday escapades, from navigating climate shocks to culinary experiments with a pellet smoker. While Michael’s smoked ham wins the family over, Adam’s household chuckles over their less-meaty lifestyle. Together, we bring you festive tales sprinkled with humor and warmth, perfect for the holiday season. We’re thrilled to celebrate our c...

Dec 08, 202448 minSeason 3Ep. 26

Gift Ideas, Wheels, Whiskey, and Holiday Cheer

Send us a text Join us for a heartwarming episode of "Road Adventures with Cycling Men of Leisure" as we share a touching Veterans Day celebration that included a surprise steak dinner for Adam's veteran father, reminding us of the importance of gratitude. Alongside this tribute, we dive into community updates, addressing listener feedback on our snazzy T-shirts and the heartening generosity of our friend Stephen Witts. A special Listener Spotlight keeps the curiosity alive as we invite guesses ...

Nov 24, 20241 hr 1 minSeason 3Ep. 25

Pedals, Pagosa, and Cycling Camaraderie: A Journey of Adventures and Festive Wishes

Send us a text What if a leisurely bike ride could transform your perspective on life, community, and adventure? Join us in this episode as we pedal through a world where the journey truly rivals the destination. We kick off with a playful debate over cycling gear and the lingering suspense surrounding the new president's identity, which had everyone on the edge of their handlebars when we recorded. Listen in as we champion small businesses, explore sun protection with a comical twist, and soak ...

Nov 10, 20241 hr 8 minSeason 3Ep. 24

Spooky Pedals and Paranormal Tales: A Halloween Cycling Adventure with Adam and Michael

Send us a text Have you ever faced your worst cycling fears, like being caught in spandex by your boss or encountering a UFO on a late-night ride? This Halloween-themed episode of Road Adventures with Cycling Men of Leisure is packed with spooky tales, hilarious cycling mishaps, and a dash of the paranormal. Join us, Adam and Michael, as we share a listener's thrilling encounter with a car in southern Minnesota, get into the festive spirit with some playful mask banter, and introduce a bourbon t...

Oct 27, 20241 hr 11 minSeason 3Ep. 23

Hurricanes, Hope, and Two-Wheeled Tales: Cycling Adventures and Community Connections - Cycling Women of Leisure Series with Maria Parker

Send us a text What happens when a leisure cycling trip turns into an unexpected adventure? Join us as we recount tales from a whirlwind trip to Florida, where unforeseen events like my wife's illness and looming hurricanes prompted an early return. Amidst lighthearted quips about Florida's germs, we share community feedback and give shoutouts to Gary Vaughn and Matt Robinson. Inspired by a close call with a vehicle, we're launching a new segment, "Encounters with Cars," inviting listeners to sh...

Oct 13, 20241 hr 27 minSeason 3Ep. 22

From Flat Tires to High Fives: A Cycling Journey

Send us a text Ever wondered what it takes to juggle a bustling week, a jam-packed agenda, and still find time to connect with a passionate community of cycling enthusiasts? Join us on this vibrant episode of Road Adventures with Cycling Men of Leisure, where we kick things off by celebrating our very first subscriber, Scott, and contemplate sending him some exclusive swag to show our appreciation. We also dive into our brand-new fan mail feature, tackling a listener's burning question from Over...

Sep 29, 20241 hr 17 minSeason 3Ep. 21

Milestones, Memories, and Two-Wheeled Triumphs: Celebrating Our 50th Episode

Send us a text Ever wondered what goes into making a successful podcast and hitting major milestones? Join us for a special celebration as we commemorate our 50th episode of Road Adventures with Cycling Men of Leisure! Michael takes the reins for the introduction, flipping the script to set a festive tone. Adam and I reflect on the incredible journey we've had, from surpassing 10,000 downloads on Buzzsprout to connecting with a global audience. We share the fascinating backstory of how our podca...

Sep 15, 20241 hr 19 minSeason 3Ep. 20

Cycling Adventures, Historic Tales, and Mackinac Memories: A Shoreline Recap with Adam and Michael

Send us a text What happens when a city steeped in history meets the thrill of a modern-day cycling adventure? Welcome back for part two of our Shoreline Recap, where we begin with a touching conversation about Michael's daughter Miya and her exciting move to eighth grade. Then, prepare to be fascinated as we journey to Beltsville, Maryland, uncovering its historical roots and even a bit of cryptid lore that’s sure to pique your curiosity. You'll find yourself laughing out loud as we recount a h...

Sep 01, 20241 hr 15 minSeason 3Ep. 19

Cycling Capers, Mysteries, and Mackinac Moments: A Journey of Laughs and Legends

Send us a text Ever wondered how a smooth travel upgrade can contrast a chaotic flight experience? Join us as we catch up on our latest capers in Road Adventures with Cycling Men of Leisure. Michael lucks out with a rare two-seat row upgrade on his flight to Kansas, while Adam humorously bemoans his packed flight and the Starbucks-less airport. We also reveal the unexpected reason behind our show's delay—Adam’s attendance at a stunning transit conference in Crystal Mountain, Michigan. Plus, we s...

Aug 25, 20241 hr 14 minSeason 3Ep. 18

Pedals, Scenic Shores, and Surprises: An Epic Cycling Journey Unfolds

Send us a text What if you could transform your cycling adventures into a unique blend of exploration and camaraderie? Join us as we kick off an exhilarating journey along Michigan's picturesque shoreline, where Adam and Michael reunite for an in-person session filled with travel tips, cost-saving hacks, and innovative packing techniques. Discover why we opted to explore new routes over the traditional RAGBRAI event and get excited with us as we anticipate meeting the rest of our team for a week...

Aug 04, 202453 minSeason 3Ep. 17

Epic Rides and Whiskey Tides: A Blend of Adventure and Home Fixes

Send us a text Can you imagine combining your love for cycling with visiting distilleries or tackling home improvement projects? On "Road Adventures Of Cycling Men of Leisure," Michael gears up for a Michigan adventure filled with distillery tours and fresh air, while Adam juggles cycling with his home renovation. We also get into Michael's recent escapades, including an intriguing whiskey tasting event called Legends of Whiskey, where he sampled a standout spirit from Dodge City, Kansas. Adam s...

Jul 21, 20241 hr 5 minSeason 3Ep. 16

Sunshine, Seafood, and Two-Wheeled Adventures

Send us a text Ever wondered how a simple family vacation can turn into a splendid adventure filled with laughter, relaxation, and even a bit of financial pondering? Join us as Michael recounts his delightful trip to Disney's Vero Beach Resort. From the joys of lounging on the beach to indulging in mouthwatering seafood, Michael's stories will whisk you away to his sunny getaway. Plus, hear about the strategic perks of staying at the airport hotel and a humorous dive into his spending habits, in...

Jul 07, 20241 hr 7 minSeason 3Ep. 15

Pedal, Bourbon, and Friendship: A Road Adventure Unfolds BRAG 2024 PART TWO

Send us a text Ever wondered how a retired firefighter gets the nickname “Boo-Boo Master”? Join us as we catch up with our incredible friend John Athens, who shares his unique journey from firefighter and paramedic to EMS educator and Special Olympics volunteer. We reminisce about heartwarming moments shared with John and delve into his enriching post-retirement life, filled with community service and personal growth. Celebrating the spirit of camaraderie, we recount an unforgettable evening at ...

Jun 23, 202445 minSeason 3Ep. 14

Pedal, Bourbon, and Friendship: A Road Adventure Unfolds BRAG 2024 PART ONE

Send us a text Ever wondered what happens when two cycling enthusiasts get stuck on a busy highway with a busted bike wheel? Join us for a rollercoaster of experiences in this episode of "Road Adventures with Cycling Men of Leisure"! We'll start with the tale of our flight to Savannah—one of us basking in first-class comfort while the other got a taste of bourbon-induced economy class woes. From there, the excitement only ramps up with stories from Big Brag 2024, packed with drama, camaraderie, ...

Jun 16, 20241 hr 8 minSeason 3Ep. 13
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