Meet the Bonk Babes
Podcast Description
In this episode of the Bonk Babes podcast, hosts Danni, Esma, and Grace discuss their cycling backgrounds, preferences between road and gravel biking, and their experiences in various cycling events. They delve into the cultural differences in cycling terminology between the UK and the US, the current state of women's cycling, and the importance of empathy and support among racers. The conversation highlights the camaraderie in the cycling community and the evolving landscape of women's cycling. In this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss the evolving landscape of gravel racing, the dynamics of team versus individual racing, and the unique challenges faced by privateers. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences at races, including the humorous and sometimes daunting encounters with dogs while riding. The conversation also touches on the need for better gear for women in cycling, the impact of aging on performance, and the excitement surrounding upcoming races. Overall, the discussion highlights the camaraderie and challenges within the cycling community.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast covers an array of topics including women's cycling, gravel racing, cultural differences in cycling terminology, and personal anecdotes from various cycling events. For instance, episodes dive into the dynamics of team versus individual racing, the importance of empathy among cyclists, and the challenges of privateer life, enhancing the understanding of the evolving landscape of women's cycling.
The Bonk Babes is the sister show to The Bonk Bros Podcast, hosted by cyclists Danni Shrosbree, Grace Washburn, and Esma Taylor. Together, they bring an honest, funny, and deeply personal take on the world of women’s cycling—both on the road and the gravel.
From sharing their cycling backgrounds and debating road versus gravel preferences to unpacking cultural differences in cycling lingo between the UK and the US, the hosts dive into the stories that shape the sport. They explore the evolving landscape of women’s cycling, the unique challenges of racing as privateers, and the balance between individual grit and team dynamics.
Listeners will hear candid anecdotes about race-day highs and lows, gear struggles (especially the need for better women’s kit), encounters with everything from steep climbs to unexpected dogs on the trail, and reflections on how aging shapes performance and perspective.
At its heart, The Bonk Babes celebrates the camaraderie, empathy, and support that fuel the cycling community—while keeping the excitement alive for the races and challenges yet to come.
Hey hey check out this week’s episode of the Bonk Babes.
Find us on the socials:
Bonk Babes – IG – @bonkbabespodcast
Grace Washburn – IG – @gracewashburn
Danni Shrosbree – IG – @danni_shrosbree
Esma Taylor – IG – @_esmataylor
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In this engaging conversation, Kendall Ryan and Laurel Rathburn, two accomplished cyclists, share their experiences and insights on mentoring junior cyclists, the challenges of injuries, and the evolving landscape of women’s cycling. They discuss the importance of guidance in cycling careers, the emotional rollercoaster of the sport, and the changing narratives around food and body image. The duo emphasizes the growing popularity of crit racing in the US and the need for a supportive community, while also addressing the misconceptions and fears surrounding the sport, particularly regarding crashes and media portrayal. In this engaging conversation, the speakers discuss their experiences in cycling, the formation of their team, and the importance of community and support among women in sports. They share personal anecdotes about friendships, the challenges of building a team, and their vision for empowering women in cycling through mentorship and skill development. The conversation highlights the collaborative spirit of the group and their commitment to creating a positive environment for all athletes.
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