Zwiftcast – Episode 29

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Simon, Shane and Nathan return for a truly global episode of the podcast for Zwifters.

We kick off with Simon and Shane in London for the launch of the Zwift Women’s Academy , the scheme which has already produced one pro rider, and is now looking to find a second.

At the launch, Zwift CEO Eric Min caused Simon’s eyebrows to rise with a revelation that the company is working on a men’s version of the academy which should be launched within a year. Simon and Shane discuss . . . .

We have the first of three reports, throughout the podcast, from Nathan in Iceland where he was taking part in a gruelling 880 mile race around the perimeter of the island, working, at first, in conjunction with a Zwift team, and then – in fierce competition with them.

Now back in Melbourne, Shane gives his views on the long-awaited London extension, the real life version of which he had ridden only a day or two before. Both agree that the addition of spectators holds real promise.

After another report from Nathan, Simon talks to Daniel Hewitt, the engineer at Zwift responsible for, amongst other things, rider behaviour. It’s a great insight into this most complicated aspect of the game.

Hill repeats are a common training technique – but why do we do them and what benefit do we get? Coach to pro riders, Kevin Poulton explains and suggests a few good sessions.

The last feature in this edition is well worth a listen – Simon caught up with Nathan soon after he’d crossed the finish line in Iceland. The last few kilometers of this draining race was packed with drama.

Hope you enjoy listening!

Zwiftcast – Episode 28

How To Listen

Listen on Podbean

Listen on iTunes

Listen on Stitchr

Simon, Shane and Nathan are together again – in the flesh and in person – as they catch up on all the latest news, events and gossip in Zwift.

All three of the Zwiftcasters sat down shortly after the latest CVR virtual racing event, in which all were involved – with Shane racing, Nathan commentating and Simon working behind the scenes.

The boys start the podcast with a quick assessment of the event and what it all may mean for the development of competitive indoor cycling.

There was an historic moment in Zwiftland when a German couple who met via the platform got married!

Simon talks to Lisa and Michael to get their story – and the boys follow up with some very light-hearted speculation about whether Zwift may become the new Tindr for cyclists. Probably not, they agree.

The boys chat about what may be happening at Zwift HQ with the much anticipated London extension still not released and move on to an interview with ZHQ’s Eric Chon, a guy who lots of Zwifters will know, as he helps fix their issues.

Simon, Shane and Nathan update listeners with what’s been happening in their bike lives, with Shane a special guest at the Zwift New Zealand and Australian tour; Nathan invited to a highly-competitive IRL race in Iceland with a bunch of Zwift execs aiming to make the top step of the podium and Simon relating the sorry tale of his big “off” and broken bike. That prompts a discussion about the real and perceived dangers of riding outside and whether London has made strides in accommodating cyclists and what lessons could be learned.

There’s going to be a regular new coaching feature on the Zwiftcast with top coach to the pro riders, Kevin Poulton. We kick off with a debate about the merits of the 2×8 FTP test as an alternative to the dreaded 20 minute effort.

The lads finish off riffing about Shane’s experience at a spin class and talking about the astonishing growth of the Peloton spin class company, finishing off with some speculation about whether Zwift could be making a pitch for this market.

We hope you enjoy listening!