Girls Gone Gravel podcast

Jaksot

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  Trail running, bikepacking, and building an unconventional life with Kara Folkerts (Episode 266) 15.09.2026 53min

  This week, Kathryn sits down with Kara Folkerts, a full time trail running guide and global bikepacker, to talk about the overlap between endurance sport, travel, and cultural curiosity. Growing up a runner in Canada, Kara moved into ultra-running during university while studying ecotourism and outdoor leadership which introduced her to guided trail running trips. They cover Kara’s path into guiding, the logistics of a nomadic life, solo bikepacking, bikepack racing, and how she’s navigated RED-S, fueling, and recovery while staying active. Kara and Kathryn also discuss the realities behind the glamorous outdoors lifestyle too, including the mental load of guiding, the challenge of consistent training, and why Kara keeps choosing adventures that require problem-solving instead of perfect plans.Follow Kara on Instagram @karafolkerts
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  LIVE from Hannah Bergemann’s 5th Annual Hangtime (Episode 265) 08.09.2026 27min

  On our episode this week, Kathryn is live on the ground in Port Gamble WA, for the 5th annual Hangtime women’s freeride event. Created in 2021 by pro freeride athlete Hannah Bergemann, the event brought together 60 women from across the world to showcase the rapidly progressing level of women’s freeride. The weekend isn’t about competition, it centers development and progression, and encourages the riders to support each other to progress at their own pace. Kathryn chats with young, up-and-coming riders Mayumi Wakefield and Peyton Lee about what the events means to them, and where they hope to see women’s freeride go as their careers progress in the sport. We also hear from event organizer Hannah Bergemann about what inspired her to start the event, and the changes she has seen and continues to see in the sport.Follow the event & riders on Instagram:@hangtime.bike @[email protected]@mayumi.wakefieldFind the event highlights on PinkBike at: https://www.pinkbike.com/news/hannah-bergemanns-5th-annual-hangtime-recap.htmlCourses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/Follow us on Instagram:@feistycycling@feisty_mediaGirls Gone Gravel Website:https://www.girlsgonegravel.com/Support our Partners:Wahoo: Learn about the ELEMNT ROAM 3 at https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/6kn0EbMomentous: Use code GIRLSGONEGRAVEL for up to 35% off your first order at livemomentous.comTifosi: Use the code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at tifosioptics.com
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  Turning Strava Segments Into a Cycling Persona with Laini Bones (Episode 264) 01.09.2026 48min

  On this week’s episode Kristi and Kathryn talk with internet sensation Laini Bones, about how a joking Instagram bit turned into a fast-growing cycling platform. Laini started running during college, and spent 10 years as a runner working in the world of corporate finance before cycling piqued her interest. She tells us about her path from running marathons to road racing, the viral segment-hunting reels that launched her account, and how she balances comedy, competition, and growing visibility in the cycling world. The conversation also digs into her racing plans with Lauren Stevens’ team, Aegis Next Step Racing where she has been a guest rider this year, and her plans for the future - which may just include some gravel racingAside from being a total bad-ass on a bike, Laini is also co-founder and CFO of Carbs Fuel with her husband Gabe. She tells us how the company got started, and what it was like making the leap from her full-time corporate gig to the life of an entrepreneur and influencer.Follow Laini on instagram @lainibones
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  LIVE From Gravel Worlds in Lincoln Nebraska (Episode 263) 25.08.2026 42min

  On this week’s episode Kathryn joins us from on the ground at Gavel Worlds in Lincoln, Nebraska. First we hear from fellow podcasters, the Bonk Babes who tell us a little bit about how their show got starters, as well as a few plans they are cooking up for the future. Then we hear from a number of athletes including Sofia Gomez-Villafane, Cécile LeJeune, Danni Shrosbree, and race winner Gee Schreurs. Tune in to get all of the on the ground details!Courses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/Follow us on Instagram:@feistycycling@feisty_mediaGirls Gone Gravel Website:https://www.girlsgonegravel.com/Support our Partners:Wahoo: Learn about the ELEMNT ROAM 3 at https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/6kn0EbMomentous: Use code GIRLSGONEGRAVEL for up to 35% off your first order at livemomentous.comTifosi: Use the code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at tifosioptics.com
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  Best Friends Bicycle Club with Marley Blonsky (Episode 262) 11.08.2026 50min

  On our episode this week Kathryn catches up with friend of the podcast, and founder of All Bodies on Bikes, Marley Blonsky. With her recent move to the west coast Marley opens up about what prompted the move, and why Portland feels like home. This year Marley took a step back from running All Bodies on Bikes, and is now working on the sales floor at River City Bicycles in Portland. She gives her perspective on what she’s learning in the role, why she loves it, and some of the trends she is seeing in the bike industry from the sales side. Marley will be having a knee replacement in the fall, after a long journey with a knee injury that has affected her life for years. She gives us an honest look at the challenges that she has faced as a person in a larger body trying to seek treatment for her injury. Marley also discusses her decision to use a GLP-1, and how she has handled the use of this medication as an endurance cyclist. Earlier this year Marley released a children' s book called Rag Tag Best Friends Bicycle Club. She tells us about where the inspiration for the story came from, as well as where you can buy the book.Learn more about Marley on her website marleyblonsky.comCheck out Marley’s signature collection with Shredly at https://shredly.com/ and use the code GirlsGoneGravel at checkout to save 15%!
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  Women in Gravel: Photography, Community, and Authenticity with Tilly Scholl (Episode 261) 04.08.2026 41min

  In this episode, Kathryn and Kristi are joined by Tilly Scholl, a trailblazing photographer and cyclist who has carved a unique niche in the gravel scene. Tilly shares her unconventional journey from a cycling novice to a professional photographer, discussing how her background in film photography influences her intimate and soulful approach to storytelling. The conversation explores the significance of community support among women in gravel and the unique perspectives they bring to both racing and media, emphasizing authenticity and inclusivity across diverse age groups and backgrounds. Tilly also reflects on the challenges women face in race environments and the positive impact of brands like Silca in fostering genuine engagement through education.From her first experiences capturing the mud of Mid South to her transition into full-time professional photography, Tilly highlights the power of portraits in capturing the confidence and personal growth of riders. She provides a look behind the scenes at our Feisty Mechanic camps and discusses the importance of capturing lasting memories that empower women within the sport. Finally, the group looks ahead to the major events Tilly will be covering, including Leadville and Gravel Worlds, as she continues to advocate for a more visible and respected space for women in the cycling industry.Follow Tilly on Instagram @thistilly and check out her YouTube channel Tilly Show.Join us in Tuscon, AZ for our Feisty Women's Mechanic Camp and register at: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/women-s-bike-mechanic-camp-tucson-az-feisty-media-24985624#about-this-tripCourses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/Follow us on Instagram:@feistycycling@feisty_mediaGirls Gone Gravel Website:https://www.girlsgonegravel.com/Support our Partners:Wahoo: Learn about the ELEMNT ROAM 3 at https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/6kn0EbMomentous: Use code GIRLSGONEGRAVEL for up to 35% off your first order at livemomentous.comTifosi: Use the code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at tifosioptics.com
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  Embracing Community and Inclusivity in Cycling with Austin Killips (Episode 260) 28.07.2026 51min

  In this episode, Kathryn and Kristi are joined by professional cyclist and advocate Austin Killips. They explore Austin’s journey from racing to community organizing, highlighting the vision behind her upcoming Grit Mountain Bike Festival. Austin shares her cycling origin story and discusses how community has shaped her career, offering deep insights into the challenges and triumphs of navigating professional cycling as a trans athlete.Throughout the conversation, Austin details her work with All Bikes Welcome, an organization dedicated to fostering inclusivity in the sport. The group discusses the vital importance of grassroots events like Gritfest, which emphasize connection, accessibility, and meeting participants where they are. Austin also reflects on how failure and vulnerability have been instrumental in her growth, and shares strategies for creating beginner-friendly, sustainable spaces that prioritize diversity and representation. The episode offers valuable lessons on how to build a cycling community where everyone can belong and thrive.Find more information at All Bikes Welcome and the Gritfest page.Follow Austin on Instagram @austintrace and visit her website.Courses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/Follow us on Instagram:@feistycycling@feisty_mediaGirls Gone Gravel Website:https://www.girlsgonegravel.com/Support our Partners:Wahoo: Learn about the ELEMNT ROAM 3 at https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/6kn0EbMomentous: Use code GIRLSGONEGRAVEL for up to 35% off your first order at livemomentous.comTifosi: Use the code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at tifosioptics.com
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  Celebrating Stories Behind the Sport with Gretchen Powers (Episode 259) 21.07.2026 48min

  In this episode,Kathryn and Kristi are joined by Gretchen Powers, an influential filmmaker, photographer, and sports industry veteran. They explore Gretchen’s career journey, beginning with her roots in Vermont and her transition from an aspiring Olympic skier to a professional photographer and filmmaker. Gretchen shares insights into her work within the outdoor and cycling industries, including her experiences with the US ski team and how she discovered her unique niche in sports storytelling.Throughout the conversation, the group discusses the crucial role of diversity and representation in sports media, especially for women. Gretchen highlights how major events, such as Unbound and the Olympics, provide powerful opportunities to share impactful narratives. She also pulls back the curtain on the reality of race day, detailing the logistics, the long mornings, and her commitment to capturing the authentic, human side of the athletes she covers.Finally, Gretchen delves into the importance of community, kindness, and advocacy among media crews and athletes, explaining how building authentic relationships allows photographers to access pivotal moments. She also reflects on the challenges of her profession, sharing strategies for balancing race coverage with relationships and the necessity of self-care during long event days. Her journey offers a compelling look at the power of storytelling in the evolving landscape of women’s sports.Follow Gretchen on Instagram @gpowersfilm.
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  One More Match with Samantha Campbell (Episode 258) 14.07.2026 30min

  On this week’s episode we hear from Kristi live from SBT GRVL with U23 rider Samantha Campbell. This year is Samantha’s second season on the U23 Life Time Grand Prix, and this year she is racing on the Velocio/ENVE team. She talks about how the team members support each other, and how each of them use their own unique backgrounds to the development of all of the team’s riders. Samantha has been riding bikes all of her life, and grew up racing on the mountain bike through middle and high school. Now in college in Grand Junction, CO, Samantha has found her way into gravel and she talks about what she loves about the discipline as well as why it suits her style of racing.Follow Samantha on Instagram @samanthajcampbell_Courses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/Follow us on Instagram:@feistycycling@feisty_mediaGirls Gone Gravel Website:https://www.girlsgonegravel.com/Support our Partners:Wahoo: Learn about the ELEMNT ROAM 3 at https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/6kn0EbMomentous: Use code GIRLSGONEGRAVEL for up to 35% off your first order at livemomentous.comTifosi: Use the code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at tifosioptics.com
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  Rookie Season with Lizzie Hermolle (Episode 257) 30.06.2026 42min

  On our episode this week Kathryn and Kristi welcome gravel new-comer Lizzie Hermolle. Hailing from the UK, Lizzie won the British gravel national championship in 2025 in just her second season racing gravel. Lizzie was a soccer player growing up. She started cycling in her late 20’s during the COVID lockdown and was hooked. She raced on a continental road team in 2025, but after claiming the gravel national champion title she decided to focus on gravel for the 2026 season. Lizzie has raced a bunch of different gravel events this year to try and find when she likes best including Unbound 200, Traka 560, and some UCI events in Europe. Lizzie talks about her experience at Unbound, and what her plans are for the rest of the season.Follow Lizzie on Instagram @lizziehermolleCourses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/Follow us on Instagram:@feistycycling@feisty_mediaGirls Gone Gravel Website:https://www.girlsgonegravel.com/Support our Partners:Wahoo: Learn about the ELEMNT ROAM 3 at https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/6kn0EbMomentous: Use code GIRLSGONEGRAVEL for up to 35% off your first order at livemomentous.comTifosi: Use the code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at tifosioptics.com
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  A Different Kind of Fun with Maddy Nutt (Episode 256) 09.06.2026 1t 10min

  This week on the show we have a special two-part episode with professional cyclist Maddy Nutt. We first hear from Maddy live from Emporia in the days leading into her Unbound XL race. Maddy talks about her win at the Traka 560, and why she was drawn to gravel to begin with. She also goes through a few pre-race details for Unbound, including her bike setup and the recipe for her favorite race day breakfast. Kathryn then catches up with Maddy after she is back home in London following her second place finish at the Unbound XL. Maddy goes over some of the highlights, and lowlights, of her race including dodging lightning strikes and hiking through mud. Listen in to find out if Maddy actually had fun during the Unbound XL, and if she will go for the cast iron frying pan.Follow Maddy on Instagram @maddynutty and check out her YouTube channel @maddynuttCourses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/Follow us on Instagram:@feistycycling@feisty_mediaGirls Gone Gravel Website:https://www.girlsgonegravel.com/Support our Partners:Wahoo: Learn about the ELEMNT ROAM 3 at https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/6kn0EbMomentous: Use code GIRLSGONEGRAVEL for up to 35% off your first order at livemomentous.comTifosi: Use the code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at tifosioptics.com
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  BONUS: Take the Leap: Kate Veronneau on Adventure and Trying Something New at FeistyFest 07.06.2026 19min

  In this bonus episode, Selene welcomes longtime friend, cyclist, and women’s sports powerhouse Kate Veronneau to the show for a preview of the first-ever FeistyFest in the Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania.For Kate, the location is personal. The Valley Preferred Cycling Center is where she first fell in love with bike racing, found her cycling community, and eventually launched a career in the sport. She shares how a casual Friday night trip to watch track racing turned into an entry-level “try the track” class, a relocation to the Lehigh Valley, and years immersed in one of the most magical cycling communities around.Selene and Kate talk about what makes the Lehigh Valley so special: quiet roads, covered bridges, gravel before gravel was “gravel,” beautiful trails, and a deep community of people who love to ride, run, explore, and support one another.They also dig into what attendees can expect at FeistyFest: track riding, gravel, trail running, lifting, swimming, pickleball, community, laughter, and the kind of grown-up summer camp energy that reminds women how good it feels to try new things.Kate also shares why women-only spaces can be so powerful, especially when women feel safe, supported, and encouraged to step outside their comfort zones. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or brand new to an activity, there is something magical that happens when women come together, lift each other up, and give each other permission to live a little bigger.Learn more and register for FeistyFest
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  Unbound 2026 Post Race Show LIVE from Emporia (Episode 255) 02.06.2026 37min

  Wow, what an incredible week being immersed in the gravel community in Emporia, KS! Unbound 2026 sure was a memorable one, from mud to heat to hail storms, this race had it all. On our episode this week Kristi and Kathryn caught up with a few of the female pros before and after the race to hear how they were preparing, as well as how their race day unfolded. Tune in to get all of the nitty gritty details love from Unbound Gravel 2026.Courses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/Follow us on Instagram:@feistycycling@feisty_mediaGirls Gone Gravel Website:https://www.girlsgonegravel.com/Support our Partners:Wahoo: Learn about the ELEMNT ROAM 3 at https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/6kn0EbMomentous: Use code GIRLSGONEGRAVEL for up to 35% off your first order at livemomentous.comTifosi: Use the code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at tifosioptics.com
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  Unbound 2026 Preview Show with Lauren Hall & Sarah Sturm (Episode 254) 26.05.2026 1t 26min

  Unbound Gravel 2026 is almost here! Kathryn and Kristi are joined this week by Lauren Hall and Sarah Sturm who will both be part of the Life Time media team at Unbound this year covering the 200 mile race. First up, Kristi gives a quick course preview and talks through some of the changes for 2026. Then they take a deep dive into race tactics, possible team dynamics, and how the European women are shaking up the gravel scene in North America. We also hear everyone’s podium picks. With such a stacked women’s field, this is sure to be an electric race!Follow the race live on the Life Time Grand Prix Youtube Channel at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XSI5XfzxJk0
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  Growing in Gravel with Lauren Stephens (Episode 253) 19.05.2026 51min

  On this week’s episode Kathryn and Kristi are joined by 3-time gravel national champion Lauren Stephens. Lauren has been lighting up the road and gravel scene for years, and we are thrilled to welcome her to the show. She tells us about how a second-hand bike from her sister got her started in cycling, and how she went from bike commuter to racing on the women’s world tour. Last year, Lauren and her husband started a women’s cycling team called Next Step Racing. Lauren explains what went into their decision to start the team, and how she hopes it will continue to spur growth in the women’s peloton both in road and gravel racing. Follow the team on Instagram @aegisnextstepracingFollow Lauren on Instagram @lollyis_lauren
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  Always Improving with Hannah Otto (Episode 252) 12.05.2026 52min

  This week on the show Kathryn welcomes back professional cyclist and coach Hannah Otto. Last fall after finishing in a tie for 7th p[lace overall in the Life Time Grand Prix, Hannah went to the Big Island of Hawai’i to attempt a Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the Mauna Kea climb. This was not Hannah’s first time attempting an FKT, and she talks about what drives her to take on these epic endurance events as well as what she loves most about racing no one but herself. While riding 55 miles straight up hill wouldn’t necessarily be everyone’s idea of fun, Hannah details how she finds joy in these attempts, and how she adapts when things start to get difficult. Hannah is competing in the Life Time Grand Prix again in 2026. She talks through a few of her best tips leading into the last few weeks before Unbound, and how to get the most out of your day there.Watch Hannah recap of her FKT attempt on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZ7SrrqEUXM&t=316sFollow Hannah on Instagram @thehannahotto
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  Navigating Pregnancy and Post-Partum with Iz King (Episode 251) 05.05.2026 1t 4min

  If you follow gravel racing, you probably have seen Iz King with her infectious smile and bright orange kit around gravel events. In the last year, Iz’s life has looked a little different; in August 2025 she gave birth to a baby girl and this week she joins us to discuss what that transition has been like for her and her family. She opens up about the challenges and rewards of getting back to training and racing after pregnancy, and how it feels to be coming back to such a competitive field in the women’s gravel pro peloton. Iz speaks candidly about how having a daughter has changed her perspective on risk, in an inherently risky sport, and what is motivating her to continue pursuing cycling as a career.Follow Iz on Instagram @king_izCourses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/Follow us on Instagram:@feistycycling@feisty_mediaGirls Gone Gravel Website:https://www.girlsgonegravel.com/Support our Partners:Wahoo: Learn about the ELEMNT ROAM 3 at https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/6kn0EbMomentous: Use code GIRLSGONEGRAVEL for up to 35% off your first order at livemomentous.comTifosi: Use the code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at tifosioptics.com
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  Lessons on 200 Miles with Meredith Root (Episode 250) 28.04.2026 53min

  This week Kathryn and Kristi welcome back our friend Meredith Root. Meredith is the co-founder of Team Tactic, a nutrition and training coaching company, with her wife Alex Parker. Meredith will be racing the Unbound 200 this year for the second time. She is here to talk about the lessons she learned last year during the race, and how she has changed her training this year compared to last year. Meredith also explains some of the lessons she took away from racing the 200 mile last year, like how she hit her nutrition and hydration goals, controlling the controllables, and getting the most out of your fueling on the days leading into the race. She also explains how she has adapted her strength training over the last few months, as well as how she has benefitted from hiring a coach.Follow Meredith on Instagram @meredith_root and at @heyteamtacticWatch the chaotic Crossfit crit at https://www.youtube.com/live/kfnjMFd5q4M?si=D5UKeOT6UpbvixRO&t=3273Courses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/Follow us on Instagram:@feistycycling@feisty_mediaGirls Gone Gravel Website:https://www.girlsgonegravel.com/Support our Partners:Wahoo: Learn about the ELEMNT ROAM 3 at https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/6kn0EbMomentous: Use code GIRLSGONEGRAVEL for up to 35% off your first order at livemomentous.comTifosi: Use the code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at tifosioptics.com
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  How To Race 100 Miles with Alison Tetrick (Episode 249) 21.04.2026 1t 13min

  On this episode Kathryn and Kristi are joined by our friend, and frequent flier on the podcast, Alison Tetrick. Ali will be leading our More Women More Miles 100 mile group at Unbound 2026, and she is here this week to give us all of her best tips on how to make the most of your race day - whether it is Unbound or any other gravel adventure you might be taking on. She covers everything from wind management, to aid station stops, to how to make friends and be a good wheel. As a rider with a deep well of experience at Unbound, Ali also shares her advice on what to pre-ride, how to “flatten out” the race, and how to manage the chaos of race morning. If you are planning on being at any gravel events this year, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!For more tips and insight from Ali, you can sign up for the Girls Gone Gravel newsletter at https://feisty.co/more-women-more-miles/Follow Ali on Instagram @amtetrick.Courses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/Follow us on Instagram:@feistycycling@feisty_mediaGirls Gone Gravel Website:https://www.girlsgonegravel.com/Support our Partners:Wahoo: Learn about the ELEMNT ROAM 3 at https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/6kn0EbMomentous: Use code GIRLSGONEGRAVEL for up to 35% off your first order at livemomentous.comTifosi: Use the code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at tifosioptics.com
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  A Gathering of Friends with Crystal Wintle (Episode 248) 14.04.2026 39min

  On this week’s episode Kathryn and Kristi are joined by co-founder of the Mid South Gravel Crystal Wintle. After getting a taste of gravel while attending Emporia State University, Crystal moved to Stillwater, Oklahoma and started a bike shop with her husband. That same year they started the Mid South Gravel race, and what began as a gathering of a few of their friends has grown into one of the best-known gravel races in the US. Crystal talks about the factors that drove their decision to start the event, and how leading with love has kept the feeling of belonging alive for participants as the race continues to grow.Follow The Mid South on Instagram @midsouthgravel.Courses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/Follow us on Instagram:@feistycycling@feisty_mediaGirls Gone Gravel Website:https://www.girlsgonegravel.com/Support our Partners:Wahoo: Learn about the ELEMNT ROAM 3 at https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/6kn0EbMomentous: Use code GIRLSGONEGRAVEL for up to 35% off your first order at livemomentous.comTifosi: Use the code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at tifosioptics.com