QueenStage Women's Cycling Podcast

Episodi

• Sofia Gomez Villafañe: UNBOUND, SBT GRVL, and Everything You Need to Know About Chain Wax 01.07.2026 1h 6min

  She won UNBOUND Gravel in the mud. Then she went to Steamboat Springs and won SBT GRVL on dry champagne gravel. Sofia Gomez Villafañe is having one of the most dominant seasons in women's gravel racing history, and she sat down with Queen Stage to talk all of it.In 2026 alone, Sofia has won Santa Vall, Castellón Gravel Race, Valley of Tears, Mid South Gravel, Sea Otter Classic, The Traka 200, Unbound Gravel, and SBT GRVL. In this conversation, Rosael, Betsy, and Molly get into the racing, the person behind the results, and the science and best practices behind chain wax.What we cover:Racing and strategy at Unbound Gravel 2026 and SBT GRVL, including how Sofia prepared for extreme mud, how she managed equipment through 207 miles of limestone paste, and what she was thinking in the final sprint on Commercial Street.The double standard applied to competitive women in sport, and why the same traits that get male athletes celebrated get women labeled difficult or worse. Sofia addresses the "villain" narrative head-on.The professionalization of gravel racing: feed zones, athlete support, race calendars, and the tensions that come with a grassroots discipline growing up fast.Sofia's big-picture goals for 2026, including stepping away from the Life Time Grand Prix overall to target the UCI Gravel World Championships in October.The Cooldown podcast, post-race debriefs, working with coach Carmen Small, and what actually motivates her to keep winning.SILCA Chain Wax Segment:Why hot-melt immersion wax outperformed wet lube at Unbound, even in the mud. Sofia explains the endurance chip and speed chip system she and her mechanic Brad use to customize their wax blend for ultra-long events. We also cover how to know when to re-wax, how to top off between immersions, common beginner mistakes (including routing the chain wrong through the rear derailleur), and why starting with a brand-new chain and SILCA's Strip Chip makes the whole process dramatically easier. Rosael shares her own first hot-melt wax experience at home, and Betsy commits to making the switch on air.SILCA products mentioned: Secret Chain Blend Hot Melt Wax, Strip Chip, Speed Chip, Endurance Chip, drip top-off wax, pre-waxed chains, and the SILCA wax pot. Learn more at silca.cc.Subscribe, follow, and send us your TdFFaZ questions and hot takes at info@queenstage.cc. Daily coverage of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift drops August 1 through 9. Preview episode out end of July.Follow Queen Stage: @queenstage.cc | queenstage.cc
• The Toughest Rival: Yourself, with Olympic Champion Grace Brown 25.06.2026 49min

  What's the toughest opponent a time trialist will ever face? The clock is just a scoreboard. The real rival is the voice in your head. This episode, Queen Stage talks with Grace Brown, the reigning Olympic champion and 2024 world champion in the individual time trial, about the mental architecture of elite cycling, the line between ambition and perfectionism, and what happens to your sense of self when you walk away from competition at the absolute peak.Grace won everything in 2024—the Olympic gold, the world title, Liège-Bastogne-Liège, her fourth national time trial championship—and then retired. In this conversation, she walks us through the Glasgow Worlds race where doubt cost her five seconds, the Zurich Worlds mantra that flipped a 25-second deficit in the final 12 kilometers, the wet Paris Olympics, and why she said no to one more year despite being on top.We also talk about her work as president of The Cyclists' Alliance, the structural gaps in women's cycling development, and how being good at pushing yourself to the limit translates—and doesn't translate—to life after racing.This episode is Part Three of Queen Stage's four-episode branded content series with Rapha and Zwift, themed around fierce friendships and rivalries in women's cycling. https://www.zwift.com/events/tag/queenstagepodIn This Episode:Time Trial as Self-Confrontation How internal dialogue separates winners from the restThe Zurich Worlds ComebackGrace's mantra on repeat: "You're strong, you can be world champion." She flips a 25-second gap to win the rainbow jersey weeks after Olympic goldOlympic Gold in the Rain How staying relaxed while others panicked at Paris became the competitive edge Working with a sports psychologist to build strategies for pressure Racing only against the course and herself, not against external chaosAmbition vs. Perfectionism Winning means delivering your best self under the circumstances given, not executing a flawless planRetiring at the Top Why stepping away after her best year made sense; the pull of home outweighed one more season at the topThe Cyclists' Alliance Grace's role as president: advocacy, legal support, mentorship for emerging riders The crisis: Continental-level races disappearing, gutting the development pathway Why World Tour revenue needs to trickle down to sustain the sport structurallySelf-Talk and Self-Compassion The distinction between self-compassion and letting yourself off the hookSponsors and PartnersRapha and Zwift This episode is part of a four-episode Queen Stage series presented by Rapha and Zwift, built around the theme of fierce friendships and rivalries in women's cycling. The series builds toward the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, August 1–9, and the Rapha Women's 100, September 5–6. Join the Zwift community ride on Wednesday, June 24, at one of six available time slots.Ruckus Composites The home of Queen Stage. Experts in carbon fiber repair, inspection, and engineering.Support the ShowThe best way to support Queen Stage is to subscribe and leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Have a question, a hot take, or just want to say hello? Email us at info@queenstage.cc or find us on Instagram at @queenstage.cc.
• Tour de Suisse Women Recap, Lael Wilcox's Race Against the Heat, and a Surprise at US Road Nationals 21.06.2026 1h 17min

  Rosael Torres-Davis and Molly Hurford are joined by guest host Shawn Small of Ruckus Composites for a packed recap episode covering one of the busiest weekends on the women's calendar. The trio starts with a rant about FloBikes' patchy coverage of women's racing before diving into the new five-stage Tour de Suisse Women, which ran for the first time alongside the men's race under new organizer Cycling Unlimited Suisse. Marlen Reusser overcame a spring full of injuries to win her third home title, holding off Cédrine Kerbaol and Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney on the brutal Col de la Croix queen stage after Elisa Longo Borghini's early race lead unraveled in the mountains. The crew also breaks down Urška Žigart's frightening road-bump crash, the fallout from extreme European heat (including Lael Wilcox's withdrawal from her around-the-world record attempt and the cancellation of Canadian Gravel Nationals), the UCI's jersey and computer rules, and a surprise mountain-bike-to-road crossover win for Kate Courtney at US Road Natio2nals in Charleston, West Virginia.Episode Breakdown00:34 — FloBikes coverage rant06:02 — Intro and SRAM sponsor message06:27 — Musette and cap banter07:19 — New five-stage Tour de Suisse Women format09:46 — Cycling Unlimited Suisse and CEO Gabriela Buchs13:52 — Single-commentator coverage gripe14:01 — Stage 1: De Vries wins, Dickson second, Kerbaol third16:15 — Stage 2: Longo Borghini solos to the win and yellow17:49 — Žigart's crash and fractured jaw24:23 — Stage 3: Bäckstedt wins the sprint, Williams second31:18 — Canyon-SRAM's GC future34:06 — Stage 4 ITT: Reusser wins, retakes yellow37:08 — Reusser's injury-plagued spring38:00 — Stage 5: Reusser wins the queen stage and GC44:50 — Reusser's post-race interview46:48 — Final GC recap48:11 — Lael Wilcox abandons around-the-world attempt52:39 — Canadian Gravel Nationals cancelled for heat59:13 — UCI equipment rule banter1:02:11 — Revisiting "how do women pee" story1:04:25 — US Road Nationals: Courtney beats Stephens1:09:03 — Kate Courtney's road racing future1:15:29 — Sign-off and what's coming upSponsorThis episode is presented by SRAM, a longtime supporter of women's cycling and the technology behind some of the fastest bikes in the peloton. SRAM powers Queen Stage's Tour de Suisse Women coverage and will also support the show's coverage of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift this August.What's Coming UpNext week, Queen Stage sits down with Unbound Gravel champion Sofia Gomez Villafañe. There's also a Rapha Zwift community ride on Wednesday, June 24, featuring guest Olympian Grace Brown. The show then takes a short break in July before returning the last week of the month with a special episode made in partnership with Zwift and Rapha exploring rivalries in the women's peloton, alongside a preview of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift (August 1 to 9).
• Live at UNBOUND Gravel: Ludi Scholz, Peta Mullens, Melisa Rollins, and Paige Stuart 10.06.2026 57min

  For the first time ever, Queen Stage recorded live, and we did it in the only place that made sense: Emporia, Kansas, home of UNBOUND Gravel, presented by Liv Cycling.We brought together four women who represent every corner of the sport: Ludi Scholz, Liv's global gravel category manager, who has spent over a decade making the case that women deserve more than a shrunken, pinked-down version of a bike. Peta Mullens, Australian multi-discipline cyclist and Lifetime Grand Prix competitor, who made the jump from American crit racing to gravel and hasn't looked back. Melisa Rollins, chemist-turned-professional cyclist, Leadville Trail 100 champion, and one of the most compelling athletes in the gravel field today. And Paige Stuart, Liv's mechanic for the Lifetime Grand Prix series, who went from tinkering on vintage bikes in Moab to wrenching at UCI Mountain Bike World Cups.Together, they cover a lot of ground. Ludi on why Liv is a brand, not a line, and what twelve years of commitment to women's cycling actually looks like in practice. Peta on the professionalization of women's gravel, the amateur field gap, and why the atmosphere in Emporia is as much a draw as the race itself. Melisa on her road back from a broken elbow, the hundred-year-old sourdough starter that kept her sane, and what she thinks about Kate Courtney's Leadville record. Paige on holding the door open for other women in the sport, the little girl at a World Cup who stopped and stared, and what it takes to get your own hands on a wrench.This episode also gets into the bigger picture: how women's gravel went from mass starts with thousands of men to a legitimate, separate, competitive field in just a few years. Who made that happen. What still needs to change. And why storytelling, community, and yes, a hot pink gravel bike, might be exactly how we get there.Recorded live in front of an audience in Emporia, Kansas, the week of Unbound Gravel 2026. Presented by Liv Cycling.Guests: Ludi Scholz, Global Gravel Category Manager, Liv Cycling Peta Mullens, Liv Racing Collective Melisa Rollins, Liv Racing Collective Paige Stuart, Liv Cycling MechanicHosts: Betsy Welch, Anne-Marije Rook, Rosael Torres-Davis, Molly HurfordFind us at queenstage.cc and on Instagram @queenstage.cc.
• “When you don’t have legs, you race with heart.”: Giro Stages 6-9 Recap 07.06.2026 1h 6min

  Giro d'Italia Donne Stages 6–9 Recap | Presented by SRAMFour stages. One historic sprint record. A queen stage cut short. And a final day that rewrote the GC.Rosael and Anne-Marije Rook are joined by guest host Aidan Burgess, teacher turned cycling social media favorite and host of the Domestiques Hot Seat podcast, for a full breakdown of the Giro's defining final chapter.Before diving into the race, the crew pauses to celebrate Lael Wilcox's departure on her attempt to set a new world record for circumnavigating the globe by bicycle, aiming to beat Marc Beaumont's record of 78 days, 14 hours, and 40 minutes. Rook, who covered Wilcox's preparation for Cycling Weekly, explains the Guinness rules, Wilcox's route from Chicago through Europe, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, Australia, and back, and what's different this time: an aerodynamic position, a full support crew, and a genuine shot at the absolute record.Stage 6: Elisa Balsamo wins her fourth stage of the race, becoming the first Italian rider to accomplish that at the Giro since Greta Zocca in 2001. Lucinda Brand delivers another devastating lead-out — for someone else. Maggie Coles-Lyster takes second in what the hosts hope signals a grand tour win coming. Georgia Baker rounds out the podium. The Wiebes question lingers.Stage 7: A crash with 56 kilometers to go takes down Anna van der Breggen, Marlen Reusser, and others. On the descent after Pietra Gavina, 20-year-old Célia Gery of FDJ attacks, reads the road brilliantly, and takes her first WorldTour win. She won the U23 Road World Championship at 19. This is her third win of the season.Stage 8: The queen stage up the Colle delle Finestre is cut short by roughly 20 kilometers due to ice and avalanche risk on the mountain, a significant blow to Vollering's GC hopes. Riders learn the finish location with about 33 kilometers to go. Vollering attacks at the improvised finish to take the stage win and ten bonus seconds, but the time gaps she needed never materialize. Van der Breggen holds the Maglia Rosa. The hosts discuss whether van der Breggen's post-crash condition was playing a role, and whether her tactic of pacing at the front on the climbs worked against her.Stage 9: What looked like a transitional stage became the race's defining day. Niedermaier attacks from 80 kilometers out with Longo Borghini and Fischer Black and builds more than two minutes on the chasers. With the virtual GC lead slipping away, Vollering attacks Van der Breggen on the climb, gains 20 seconds, then motors up to the Niedermaier group and works with them to the finish. Longo Borghini takes the stage. Niedermaier finishes third. Vollering wins the GC. The crew breaks down what FDJ's dominance means going forward, what Van der Breggen's team situation cost her, and why Antonia Niedermaier and Isabella Holmgren are names to watch at the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. Aidan picks Paula Blasi as his TdFFaZ favorite.Up next on Queen Stage: Tour de Suisse Femmes recap (June 17–21, watch on FloBikes and HBO Max) → Rapha x Zwift episode featuring Grace Brown (June 24) → Most of July off → Full daily coverage of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, starting August 1. It's also our one-year anniversary.Send requests for TdFFaZ coverage to info@queenstage.cc or @queenstage.cc on Instagram.This episode is presented by SRAM, proud supporter of women's cycling and presenting sponsor of Queen Stage's full Giro d'Italia Donne coverage.
• Giro d'Italia Women Stages 3-5 Recap: Anna Takes Pink. Demi Takes a Stage. Nothing Is Decided. 03.06.2026 48min

  Here's the trimmed version — 3,987 characters:Five stages down, four to go — and the Giro d'Italia Women 2026 has already delivered more drama than most race weeks deserve. Anna van der Breggen put on a masterclass in the uphill time trial to claim the maglia rosa, Demi Vollering finally broke through for her first-ever Giro stage win, and 21-year-old Canadian Isabella Holmgren announced herself on the world stage. Rosael, Rook, and Molly break it all down.What's in This Episode The Lorena Wiebes disqualification: new details on the bike weighing controversy. Stage 3 recap: Elisa Balsamo's third sprint win, Lily Williams, and Human Powered Health's breakout race. Stage 4 recap: Anna van der Breggen's dominant ITT, TT bike vs. road bike, and what Marlen Reusser's choice really says. Stage 5 recap: Demi Vollering wins from a four-up sprint, Reusser yo-yos, and ELB limits her losses. Deep dive: Isabella Holmgren — junior world champion, Olympic mountain biker, and one of the most complete young cyclists in the world. Preview of Stages 6–9, including the Colle delle Finestre queen stage. The Canadian women's track program controversy.This Episode Is Presented by SRAM SRAM is a longtime supporter of women's cycling and the technology behind some of the fastest bikes in the peloton. SRAM is powering Queen Stage's full coverage of the 2026 Giro d'Italia Women.Stages 6–9 Preview Stage 6 | Ala to Brescello | 155 km | Flat — the last day for the sprinters. Stage 7 | Sorbolo Mezzani to Salice Terme | 165 km | Punchy Finale — Vollering's most likely window to claw back time before the mountains. Stage 8 | Colle delle Finestre + Sestriere | 101 km | Queen Stage — nearly 20 km of climbing to 2,178m, with the final 8 km on gravel. This is where the GC gets decided. Stage 9 | Saluzzo Circuit | 143 km | Punchy Finale — three categorized climbs and one last chance for everything to blow up.Come Back Sunday, June 7 Final Giro recap with guest host Aidan Burgess of the Domestique Hot Seat Podcast, joining Rook and Rosael.Support the Show Subscribe and leave a rating or review wherever you listen. Questions or hot takes? Email us at info@queenstage.cc or find us on Instagram and Threads @queenstage.cc.
• Twenty Grams, a Cuban Comeback, and the Maglia Rosa: Giro d'Italia Women Stages 1 & 2 01.06.2026 40min

  A shocking bike-weight disqualification strips SD Worx of a victory, Elisa Balsamo claims an emotional hometown win in pink, and we debate whether modern gravel has officially traded its DIY roots for professional PR machines.The Grand Tour season is officially underway! Host Rosael Torres-Davis is joined by Anne-Marije Rook and Molly Hurford to break down the drama-filled opening weekend at the 2026 Giro d'Italia Women, proudly presented by SRAM. The team unpacks the chaos of Stage 1, where Lorena Wiebes’ victory was overturned by a minuscule 20g-gram penalty, and celebrates Elisa Balsamo’s spectacular redemption sprint on Stage 2.Before crossing the Atlantic, the crew shares lingering post-race reactions from a muddy weekend at UNBOUND Gravel. They dissect the hyper-professionalized infrastructure taking over the grass-roots scene, the dominance of the new Specialized Crux, and why a mid-race crash checklist includes checking on your acrylic nails. From the Flint Hills to the Grand ToursUnbound Reflection: Analyzing the mud, tech dominance, and the shift toward professionalized PR and support crews in gravel racing.Giro d'Italia Women: Stages 1 & 2 BreakdownGiro Course: A 9-stage, 1,153 km route featuring an uphill ITT and the gravel slopes of Colle delle Finestre.Visma Strategy: Their unique roster serves as a high-stakes audition for Tour de France Femmes roles.Stage 1 DQ: Lorena Wiebes' win was overturned due to a 0.02 kg bike-weight violation, leading to a legal standoff with the jury.Stage 2 Glory: Elisa Balsamo took an undisputed sprint win in Caorle, silencing critics after a confusing Stage 1 leadership handover.Safety Concerns: Discussion on technical closing circuits and dangerously placed sprint points.Peloton News & Giro Rider SpotlightArlenis Sierra: The Movistar rider returns to Grand Tour form following maternity leave.Sponsor News: Canyon//SRAM removed Zonda Crypto branding mid-week due to corporate controversy.Standouts: Afghan rider Fariba Hashimi’s aggressive breakaway and Maggie Coles-Lyster’s 7th-place sprint.Previews: Stages 3, 4, & 5Stage 3: A rolling 156 km course offering a major chance for sprinters.Stage 4: A 12.7 km uphill ITT with 14% gradients where bike choice is critical.Stage 5: Entry to the Dolomites featuring a high-speed technical descent.Sponsors & PartnersSRAMThis three-part Giro d'Italia Women 2026 recap series is proudly presented by SRAM, the powerhouse behind the most innovative drivetrain and component technology in the sport. As a long-standing champion of women's cycling at every level, SRAM is helping Queen Stage bring you the coverage women’s cycling deserves.Ruckus Composites The home of Queen Stage. Ruckus Composites specializes in carbon fiber repair, inspection, and engineering, keeping high-performance gear on the road and out of the landfill through science-backed carbon repair. Find them at RuckusComp.com The best way to support Queen Stage is to subscribe and leave a rating or review wherever you get your podcasts. Have a hot take on the race jury or a question about uphill time trial setups? Email us at info@queenstage.cc or find us on Instagram and Threads @queenstage.cc.
• Mud, Custom Scrapers, and a Five-Up Sprint at Life Time's UNBOUND Gravel 31.05.2026 44min

  The 20th anniversary of Unbound delivered apocalyptic weather, makeshift mud scrapers, and a thrilling finale. Is this the race we should officially crown the first monument of North American gravel?Rosael Torres-Davis, Molly Hurford, and Betsy Welch break down the epic 200-mile Life Time's UNBOUND Gravel presented by Shimano. The team discusses the chaotic course conditions across the Kansas Flint Hills, the tactical brilliance of the lead group, and how riders out-thought the competition with 3D-printed tools. Plus, Betsy joins directly from the finish line in Emporia to share the shattered post-race vibes, the med tent chaos, and behind-the-scenes details you didn't see on the live stream.Chapter Markers & Timestamps[04:27] The 20th Anniversary Course: Breaking down the 207-mile route combining the north and south paths, over 9,000 feet of climbing, and the gnarly new W Road.[11:30] Apocalyptic Conditions: Surviving the early mud, thunder, lightning, and 35 mph headwinds.[14:26] Tech Talk & Mud Scrapers: How riders like Cecily Decker and Paige Onweller used custom and 3D-printed mud scrapers to survive the chaos.[20:46] Texting in the Peloton: Analyzing the mid-race text from Sofia Gomez Villafane to teammate Jerica Schurz.[23:58] The Final Sprint: Sofia Gomez Villafane's perfectly timed attack to secure her second Unbound victory in a five-up sprint.[27:52] On the Ground with Betsy Welch: Post-race vibes, med tent eye-washes, pro-only feed zones, and the endless line at the bike wash.Race Results: Women's 200 Top 5Sofia Gomez VillafaneGeerike SchreursCecily DeckerPaige OnwellerRosa KloserSupport the ShowThe best way to support Queen Stage is to subscribe and leave a rating or review wherever you get your podcasts. Have a hot take on the race or a question for the team? Email us at info@queenstage.cc or find us on Instagram and Threads @queenstage.cc.Sponsors & PartnersLiv Cycling This episode is proudly presented by Liv Cycling, one of the only cycling brands built from the ground up exclusively for women. A huge thank you to Liv for their support of women's cycling on the start line, in the design studio, and everywhere in between. For more, visit https://www.liv-cycling.com/usRuckus Composites The home of Queen Stage. Ruckus Composites specializes in carbon fiber repair, inspection, and engineering, keeping high-performance gear on the road and out of the landfill through science-backed carbon repair. Find them at Ruckuscomp.com
• Fierce Friendships: Sarah Sturm and Maude Farrell on Racing, Rapha, and the Durango Crew 28.05.2026 58min

  What does it look like to be best friends with your competitor? In this episode of Queen Stage, we sit down with Sarah Sturm and Maude Farrell, two of American gravel racing's most compelling figures, who race hard against each other and show up for one another when it matters most.The conversation starts at cyclocross nationals in Tacoma (2019), where Maude crashed in front of Sarah, and winds through the Rapha Prestige in Aspen, navigating grief after losing Mo, a move to Durango, team camp in Girona, and a training ride where Maude found out Sarah was pregnant mid-interval. They discuss the Rapha privateer collective, feed zone logistics as a competitive differentiator, and the intersection of Instagram and relationships.This is Part Two of Queen Stage's four-episode series with Rapha and Zwift on fierce friendships and rivalries in women's cycling.Episode Link: Zwift Queen Stage PodIn This EpisodeHow They Met: Tacoma Nationals (2019) mud crash; connecting at Rapha Prestige Aspen; bonding after losing Moriah Wilson at Unbound.The Unbound Plan: Maude's decision to work for Sarah at Unbound 2024; navigating Sarah’s concussion; adapting race tactics dynamically.Durango & Rapha Collective: Maude's move to Durango; forming the Rapha collective with Sarah, Ellen, and Maude; defining the hybrid privateer space.Feed Zones: Meticulous aid station support as a modern gravel advantage; Cam Zink’s parents helping at Unbound.Women Don't Owe You a Smile: Performance vs. performative niceness; road peloton vs. gravel culture; navigating internet commentary.The Media Athlete: Managing long-term sponsor relationships and the privateer-influencer overlap in a small industry.Friendship & Girona: Off-bike bonding; Maude discovering Sarah’s pregnancy mid-interval in zip code 81301; riding together at team camp before Traka.Sponsors and PartnersRapha and Zwift: This episode is part of a four-episode Queen Stage series presented by Rapha and Zwift, built around the theme of fierce friendships and rivalries in women's cycling. The series builds toward the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, August 1–9, and the Rapha Women's 100, September 5–6. Tune in for the next episodes on June 24 and July 29, and join the Zwift community ride on June 24.Ruckus Composites: The home of Queen Stage. Experts in carbon fiber repair, inspection, and engineering.Support the ShowSubscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Email us at info@queenstage.cc or find us on Instagram at @queenstage.cc.
• Liège-Bastogne-Liège 2026 and Canyon//SRAM's Beth Duryea on Rivalry in Women's Cycling 09.05.2026 51min

  In this episode: Demi Vollering goes solo on La Redoute and never looks back, and we start asking the bigger question: What does rivalry actually do for a sport?This is the first episode in our four-part series with Rapha and Zwift, and the theme couldn't be more fitting for the final spring classic. Rosael Torres-Davis, Betsy Welch, and Anne-Marije Rook break down the 10th edition of the Women's Liège-Bastogne-Liège, where Demi Vollering put in one of the performances of the spring season and left the chase group with no answer. The team goes deep on whether that group could have ridden differently, what Pauline Ferrand-Prévot's early exit says about the form picture heading into summer, and why Puck Pieterse is winning in ways that still don't get enough attention.Then we sit down with Beth Duryea, co-founder and marketing and communications manager of Canyon//SRAM Racing, for a wide-ranging conversation about what rivalry looks like inside one of women's cycling's most successful teams. From what really drives Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney in those final kilometers to the delicate team dynamics when twenty-six athletes share a roster and overlapping ambitions, to the best rivalry in the history of the women's peloton.This episode is also part of our first community ride on Zwift, kicking off a series of rides leading into the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift in August and the Rapha Women's 100 in September. More details below.Zwift + Rapha Series: Episode OneThis episode opens our four-part collaboration with Rapha and Zwift, exploring what rivalry means in women's cycling on the road, in the peloton, and in the lives of the people who build the sport. Each episode pairs a race or theme with a community Zwift ride; this month's ride is live now. https://www.zwift.com/events/tag/queenstagepod Next Dates: May 27, June 24, and July 29Sponsors and PartnersRapha and ZwiftThis four-episode series is made possible by Rapha and Zwift, two brands that have invested in women's cycling when it mattered. Rapha is a longtime supporter of women's racing through events like the Rapha Women's 100, and Zwift has provided infrastructure and visibility for riders and fans across the world through the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. We're proud to be riding alongside both of them. Join the monthly community Zwift ride tied to this series and be part of what we're building. https://www.zwift.com/events/tag/queenstagepod Ruckus CompositesThe home of Queen Stage. Ruckus Composites specializes in carbon fiber repair, inspection, and engineering, keeping high-performance gear on the road and out of the landfill through science-backed carbon repair. Find them at RuckusComposites.com.Support the ShowThe best way to support Queen Stage is to subscribe and leave a rating or review. Have a hot take on the race or a question for the team? Email us at info@queenstage.cc or find us on Instagram and Threads @queenstage.cc.
• A Star is born in Spain: La Vuelta Femenina 2026 Recap 09.05.2026 1h 15min

  The conversation delves into the world of cycling technology, with a focus on wheel manufacturing and the impact of stage racing on women's cycling. Tess Denning, the Science Engineering Manager at ZIPP, provides insights into the science of wheel manufacturing, the role of resin in wheel technology, and the challenges and advancements in wheel design. The discussion also highlights the Vuelta Femenina race, the craftsmanship of wheel building, and the influence of race terrain on cycling dynamics. Additionally, the conversation explores consumer preferences in wheel design, the future of wheel technology, and the impact of race expectations on rider performance. The conversation delves into the influence of terrain on wheel selection, the impact of pro teams and riders on product development, the balance between aerodynamics, weight, and comfort in wheel selection, and the evolution of the cycling industry. It also explores the transition in the peloton and rumors of transfers, diversity and evolution in the cycling industry, and the challenges and confidence in career development.TakeawaysInsights into Wheel Manufacturing and TechnologySignificance of Women's Cycling and RacingChallenges and Advancements in Wheel Design Tire width and wheel selection are influenced by the type of terrain and riding conditions.Pro teams and riders have a significant influence on the development of cycling products, including wheels and tires.The balance between aerodynamics, weight, and comfort is crucial in wheel selection for different riding conditions.Chapters00:00 Introduction to ZIPP and Cycling Technology09:22 Innovation in Wheel Technology14:32 Consumer Preferences in Wheel Design21:09 Performance and Expectations in Cycling Races27:25 Pro Teams and Product Influence33:04 Aerodynamics and Weight Balance in Wheel Selection39:26 Diversity and Evolution in Cycling Industry
• She’s an Icon, She’s a Legend, She’s the Winner of the Tour de France Femmes 03.08.2025 56min

  The Queen Stage Women's Cycling Podcast discusses Stage 9 of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, with Anne-Marije Rook, Rosael Torres-Davis, Molly Hurford and Betsy Welch talking about the one and only Pauline Ferrand-Prevot (PFP) winning her second stage and securing the overall victory in the race. PFP's dominant performance, including a final attack with 6.5 km to go, highlighted her tactical brilliance and ability to handle pressure. The GC standings saw significant changes, with PFP leading by 3 minutes and 42 seconds over Demi Vollering.Make sure you’re following along at queenstage.cc,@queenstage.cc on Instagram, and of course, the QueenStage Women’s Cycling Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts for launch updates, behind-the-scenes content, and daily episodes starting the first day of TdFFaZ. Let the (real) race coverage begin.
• QueenStage Ep. 15 — Worlds Recap: A Brutal Kigali Course, a Surprise Champion, and Africa’s Rising Tide (with Kimberly Coats) 28.09.2025 44min

  We break down a wild Women’s Elite Road Race at the 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali. On a 15 km circuit climbed 11 times with cobbles and altitude, the race turned into pure attrition—and delivered a podium few predicted: Magdeleine Vallieres (CAN) took the rainbow jersey, with Niamh Fisher-Black (NZL) second and Mavi García (ESP) third. Joining us is Kimberly Coats, CEO of Team Africa Rising, to talk course demands, why altitude prep mattered, and what Rwanda’s first-ever African Worlds means for women’s cycling across the continent.What we coverThe course: at elevation like Denver or Andorra, with two brutal climbs, long cobbles, no radios = chaosHow the winning move formed and why the favorites stalledHistoric junior results from Ethiopia and why development pathways matterTravel, logistics, and safety in Rwanda—myths vs. realitiesAltitude camps, iron levels, and why “sleep high” isn’t a magic bulletAfrica’s momentum: Eritrea, Ethiopia, Benin, and the need for more racesLooking ahead to Montreal 2026 and LA 2028Guest Kimberly Coats — CEO, Team Africa Rising (working in African cycling development since 2009)Chapters (approx.)00:00 Cold open & intro01:00 Guest intro: Kimberly Coats05:05 Race recap & podium10:30 Why the break stuck / favorites hesitated13:30 Altitude, cobbles, and equipment notes17:30 Development realities for African riders23:30 Rwanda hosting: costs, safety, and impact29:30 Maryland Cycling Classic takeaways34:15 Who’s next in African cycling37:00 What we want from future Worlds courses40:20 Access to bikes & infrastructure43:30 Final thoughts & what’s next
• Koch Shocks the Velodrome: Paris-Roubaix Femmes 2026 Recap + Tire Tech with Silca's Josh Poertner 12.04.2026 1h 3min

  Queen Stage Podcast | Paris-Roubaix Femmes 2026 Race Recap and Tech Deep DiveFranziska Koch wins Paris-Roubaix Femmes 2026 in a photo-finish sprint that nobody saw coming. We watched it live, stress-texted each other through the whole thing, and still weren't ready for that ending. Rosael, Molly, and Rook break down every kilometer of the Hell of the North, then sit down with Silca CEO Josh Poertner to talk tire pressure, flat tires, and what gravel tech is doing to the Spring Classics.What Happened at Paris-Roubaix Femmes 2026Franziska Koch of FDJ United-SUEZ won in one of the most dramatic finishes the race has seen, edging out Marianne Vos and Pauline Ferrand-Prévot in a three-up sprint at the Roubaix velodrome. We've been calling Koch since last summer; she did an enormous amount of work, launched her sprint early, and held on for the win in her fourth career pro victory.Vos had every tactical advantage, including a leadout from defending champion Ferrand-Prévot, but couldn't close the gap. We discuss what went right for Koch, what went wrong for Visma-Lease a Bike, and how this result shifts the power balance in the peloton. We also touch on Marianne Vos racing weeks after losing her father—an emotional performance that had the whole sport rooting for her.Paris-Roubaix Femmes Broadcast ControversyBefore the sprint, Rosa Klöser (Canyon-SRAM ZondaCrypto) went solo for over 100km—racing that essentially nobody got to watch. ASO broadcast only 90 minutes of the women's race, meaning fans missed nine entire cobbled sectors, while the junior men received full coverage. We break down who made that decision, why blaming Peacock or FloBikes misses the point, and the impact of Zwift's departure as title sponsor.Race Highlights and Key MomentsLucinda Brand's crash caused by a fan raises ongoing safety questions regarding spectator access.Lotte Kopecky and Megan Jastrab led a hard chase group that never quite made contact.Arlenis Sierra (Movistar) finished ninth; Elisa Balsamo flatted early as Lidl-Trek faced another difficult day.Silca Tech Segment: Tire Pressure, Flat Tires, and the ClassicsSilca CEO Josh Poertner joins us to explain the high volume of flats in 2026. We talk about the balance between rim protection and casing cuts, what happens when inserts fail, and why teams are now gluing tubeless tires directly to their rims. We also explore how gravel tech is influencing the Spring Classics and why wider tires are the inevitable future of road racing.Also DiscussedIs FDJ United-SUEZ the new SD Worx-Protime?What's going wrong for Lidl-Trek this spring?Fan access: Beloved tradition or growing safety risk?Queen Stage is heading to Sea Otter Classic next week!Keywords: Paris-Roubaix Femmes 2026, Franziska Koch, Marianne Vos, Pauline Ferrand-Prévot, women's cycling, Paris-Roubaix results, FDJ United-SUEZ, Visma-Lease a Bike, Silca, Josh Poertner, tire pressure, Spring Classics 2026, Rosa Klöser, Canyon-SRAM, Lotte Kopecky, ASO broadcast controversy.Links and ResourcesSilcaQuestions & Hot Takes: info@queenstage.ccInstagram: @queenstage.ccThis episode is sponsored by Silca, precision performance tools that serious riders trust.
• Worlds Recap: A Brutal Kigali Course, a Surprise Champion, and Africa’s Rising Tide (with Kimberly Coats) 28.09.2025 44min

  We break down a wild Women’s Elite Road Race at the 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali. On a 15 km circuit climbed 11 times with cobbles and altitude, the race turned into pure attrition—and delivered a podium few predicted: Magdeleine Vallieres (CAN) took the rainbow jersey, with Niamh Fisher-Black (NZL) second and Mavi García (ESP) third. Joining us is Kimberly Coats, CEO of Team Africa Rising, to talk course demands, why altitude prep mattered, and what Rwanda’s first-ever African Worlds means for women’s cycling across the continent.What we coverThe course: at elevation like Denver or Andorra, with two brutal climbs, long cobbles, no radios = chaosHow the winning move formed and why the favorites stalledHistoric junior results from Ethiopia and why development pathways matterTravel, logistics, and safety in Rwanda—myths vs. realitiesAltitude camps, iron levels, and why “sleep high” isn’t a magic bulletAfrica’s momentum: Eritrea, Ethiopia, Benin, and the need for more racesLooking ahead to Montreal 2026 and LA 2028Guest Kimberly Coats — CEO, Team Africa Rising (working in African cycling development since 2009)Chapters (approx.) 00:00 Cold open & intro 01:00 Guest intro: Kimberly Coats 05:05 Race recap & podium 10:30 Why the break stuck / favorites hesitated 13:30 Altitude, cobbles, and equipment notes 17:30 Development realities for African riders 23:30 Rwanda hosting: costs, safety, and impact 29:30 Maryland Cycling Classic takeaways 34:15 Who’s next in African cycling 37:00 What we want from future Worlds courses 40:20 Access to bikes & infrastructure 43:30 Final thoughts & what’s next
• Live at Sea Otter: Life Time Grand Prix with Michelle Duffy + Marley Blonsky's Big Year 19.04.2026 58min

  Recorded live at Laguna Seca, the Queen Stage Podcast sits down with Michelle Duffy (VP of Marketing for Life Time) and Marley Blonsky (All Bodies on Bikes co-founder) to discuss the evolution of women's gravel and the power of inclusive community.The Sea Otter Women’s Race: GP Year Five The Grand Prix season kicked off with Sofia Gomez Villafañe and Lauren Stephens breaking away on the final climb at Barloy Canyon. Sofia took the win in a sprint, with Karolina Mignon rounding out the podium.Michelle notes that the field's depth is shifting significantly, with stars like Kate Courtney, Jennifer Jackson, and Tiffany Cromwell entering the mix. Notably, three German riders cracked the top 18, including Rosa Klöser, who arrived fresh off a solo attack at Paris-Roubaix Femmes.Addressing the "Villain" Narrative The episode pushes back against the "villain" label recently attached to Sofia Gomez Villafañe. The hosts argue that Sofia is simply a professional performing at the highest level—a standard rarely criticized in male counterparts like Keegan Swenson. Her dominance creates a "benchmark" that makes the chase more meaningful for the rest of the field.Evolution of the Life Time Grand Prix Michelle breaks down structural changes aimed at professionalizing the series:Expanded Purses: Five-deep prize money at every individual event.Finisher Compensation: A new $2,500 payment for professional athletes who complete the season but finish outside the top ten.Community Focus: Keeping events rooted in local culture (Emporia, Leadville, Monterey) to maintain a unique identity.Growth and Inclusion Women’s participation at Unbound has surged by 44%, largely driven by 25- and 50-mile distances. Michelle identifies two major needs for the sport's future: increased financial investment in the women’s side and a crackdown on toxic commentary in live broadcast chats.Marley Blonsky’s Big Spring Molly talks with Marley Blonsky about her new children’s book, Ragtag Best Friends Bicycle Club. The book tells a story—mirrored by Marley’s own life—of a rider told she is "too slow" who eventually finds her own crew and builds something better.All Bodies on Bikes & Industry Inclusion The All Bodies on Bikes nonprofit now supports 14 chapters and a new documentary, We Are Cyclists (available on YouTube). Marley doesn't pull punches regarding the industry’s lack of size inclusion, noting that many brands still cap at XL and blame supply chains—a claim she debunks via her partnership with Shredly, which offers a full range of technical apparel.Quick Hits E-bikes: A defense of e-bikes for accessibility, despite the separate debate regarding podiums.32-inch wheels: Marley (5'1") confirmed they are surprisingly accessible for shorter riders.Cyclocross: The joy of competing and "catting up" even when finishing at the back of the pack.Resources & Links:Advocacy: allbodiesonbikes.comDocumentary: We Are Cyclists on YouTubeBook: ragtagbestfriendsbicycleclub.comApparel: shredly.comSocials: @marleyblonsky | @queenstage.ccSponsor: Ruckus Composites (Carbon fiber repair)
• Queenstage is coming in hot (from the cold) for 2026! 28.02.2026 9min

  Welcome to the literal cold open from Rosael Torres-Davis and Molly Hurford, our snowbound reporters. We’re chatting about what’s coming up in 2026: team shifts, predictions and clashes we can’t wait to see, the races this show is covering, and some hints about the sponsors and special episodes that are in store. Make sure you’re subscribed wherever you listen to podcasts so you never miss an episode! We’re back to race coverage on Saturday March 7 with a Omloop het Neiuwsblaad Women and Strade Bianche recap and analysis.
• Maryland Cycling Classic Recap 08.09.2025 27min

  Join us as we dive into the thrilling MCC25 Women's Race Recap, where the inaugural women's race at the Maryland Cycling Classic unfolded with breathtaking intensity. From the 28-corner circuit that tested the riders' skills to the picturesque backdrop of Baltimore, this episode captures the essence of a race that was both challenging and exhilarating. Discover how the cobblestones, steep climbs, and aggressive tactics shaped the competition, and hear firsthand accounts of standout performances and unexpected turns. Tune in to experience the highs and lows of a race that promises to leave a lasting impact on the cycling world.
• Ep 4: Chaos at the Finish on Stage 3: Who’s Left? 28.07.2025 32min

  The Queen Stage Women's Cycling Podcast discussed Stage 3 of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, with Anne-Marije Rook, Rosael Torres-Davis, Molly Hurford and Betsy Welch. Today we’re highlighting a significant crash 3.5 km from the finish line that affected top contenders like Demi Vollering and Elisa Longo Borghini. The 100-mile long flat stage saw a breakaway of four leading until 6 km to go. Eventually, Lorena Wiebes won the sprint, with Marianne Vos in second. The 5 km rule ensured no time penalties for crashes. Key rider updates included Elisa Longo Borghini's abandonment and Kim LeCourt's loss of the yellow jersey to Marianne Vos.Make sure you’re following along at queenstage.cc,@queenstage.cc on Instagram, and of course, the QueenStage Women’s Cycling Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts for launch updates, behind-the-scenes content, and daily episodes starting the first day of TdFFaZ. Let the (real) race coverage begin.
• Omloop Het Nieuwsblad & Strade Bianche Donne 2026 Recap 07.03.2026 40min

  In this episode: Strade Bianche Donne, Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, and why Lael Wilcox might shave her head in the name of aerodynamics.The 2026 women’s road season is officially underway, and Queen Stage is back.In this episode, Rosael Torres-Davis is joined by Molly Hurford and Anne-Marije Rook to break down the opening races of the Spring Classics season. The conversation begins with a deep dive into the drama, tactics, and standout performances at Strade Bianche Donne, before turning to Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, where Demi Vollering and Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney delivered the first major duel of the year.The team also launches a new recurring tech segment supported by SILCA, kicking things off with ultra-endurance racer Lael Wilcox’s wind-tunnel testing ahead of her upcoming around-the-world record attempt in June.The best way to support the show is to subscribe wherever you listen and leave us a rating or review. If you have a tech or mechanic question you’d like us to tackle in a future episode, send us an email at info@queenstage.cc or reach out on Instagram or Threads @queenstage.cc.