Movers Mindset

The Movers Mindset project includes a podcast and has its own website.

Lindsey Kleinberg: Experiencing Nature, Creating Connection, and Healing

November 15, 2021

Lindsey Kleinberg: Experiencing nature, creating connection, and healing

How can individuals integrate nature, education, art, and personal healing into creating positive change for themselves and their communities?

Lindsey Kleinberg advocates for nature play in the most important way; practicing what she preaches. She shares her experiences raising her family through alternative and nature education, and why it’s important to her. Lindsey describes the benefits home gardening, self-care, and how she approaches creating change. She discusses books, blogging, art, and what she hopes to achieve in her community.

When you’re really working on a personal journey, if you are making those steps for positive impact and change, people around you, whether or not they will admit, they start to feel those things.

~ Lindsey Kleinberg (44:22)

Lindsey Kleinberg is an educator, artist, avid gardener, and nature play advocate. She is the founder of the Finding Place LV, a Reggio-inspired micro school whose mission is to reconnect kids with nature. In addition to her Masters degree, Lindsey is certified  in many areas, including Nature-based outdoor education and School Garden Coordinator.

The conversation explores how integrating nature, art, and alternative education can foster healing and inspire positive change. Discussing the importance of organic gardening, Lindsey emphasizes the transformative effects of hands-on, sustainable practices in raising children. These practices encourage empathy, environmental stewardship, and a deep connection to the natural world.

Topics also touch on the role of art in healing, with examples of how creative activities—ranging from murals to gardening—can reconnect individuals to themselves and their communities. Lindsey advocates for simple actions, such as planting seeds or creating small garden spaces, to initiate broader personal and societal shifts. A recurring theme is the necessity of self-care to sustain these efforts, ensuring individuals remain grounded and effective in their pursuits.

Takeaways

Planting seeds of change — Small, intentional actions like gardening can have a profound impact on individuals and communities.

Self-care as a foundation — Addressing personal well-being is critical to sustaining efforts for broader change.

Nature as a teacher — Hands-on experiences in nature foster empathy, creativity, and resilience in children and adults.

Art and creativity — Engaging in art is a powerful tool for personal and communal healing.

The ripple effect of change — Personal growth and intentional practices can influence and inspire those around you.

Raising environmentally conscious children — Early exposure to sustainable practices helps develop lifelong habits of stewardship and care.

Balancing digital presence — While online tools can spread awareness, maintaining human connections remains essential.

Holistic education models — Integrating principles from Waldorf and Reggio Emilia philosophies creates dynamic, experiential learning environments.

Resources

Lindsey is the founder of The Finding Place Lehigh Valley

Lindsey’s recent blog post, searching for ‘home’.

Rodale Institute — A leader in regenerative organic agriculture and education.

Julian Is a Mermaid — A children’s book advocating for self-expression and creativity.

Kutztown University’s Program in Regenerative Organic Agriculture — Collaboration with the Rodale Institute to provide a unique degree program.

Waldorf: Environment as teacher, play, storytelling, natural learning

Reggio-Emilio, community learning, art, intergenerational

Let’s Play Books and Now and Then books

Book most often given away: Julián is a Mermaid, Jessica Love

Largest book: Hobbit/Lord of the Rings combo book, Welcome to the Museum series

Book you most want, but can’t get: Iwigara

Interactive art, Juxtahub

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Growth with Brandon Douglass

November 12, 2021

https://moversmindset.com/growth-with-brandon-douglass/

What can be learned from reflecting on personal growth and authenticity through the lenses of podcasting and movement?

Exploring the intersection of self-expression and discipline through creative mediums.

Experimentation was key for me. And I think it’s just like, where are you finding the growth?

~ Brandon Douglass (13:04)

This conversation explores the themes of personal growth, authenticity, and creative expression, using podcasting and movement as central mediums. Topics include navigating the gap between public persona and authentic self, the therapeutic and self-reflective aspects of podcasting, and the challenges of overcoming fears both in movement and public speaking. Insights are shared on how the process of self-expression can foster understanding and self-awareness.

The discussion also covers practical aspects of podcasting, such as experimenting with formats, balancing consistency with creativity, and reflecting on past work to identify growth. A significant focus is placed on the importance of intentionality in creative practices and the value of embracing novel approaches to stand out in saturated fields. Movement is presented as both a physical and metaphorical language that enables exploration of different dimensions of self-expression.

Takeaways

The role of fear challenges in fostering personal growth — How embracing fear in movement and creative expression leads to growth.

The gap between public persona and authentic self — Reflections on how podcasting highlights this dynamic.

The therapeutic aspects of podcasting — Using podcasting as a tool for self-reflection and emotional processing.

Experimentation as a path to growth — The value of trying novel approaches to discover new insights.

The interplay of consistency and creativity — Challenging traditional content models to foster innovation.

Movement as a multidimensional language — Exploring different styles and expressions through physical practice.

The value of intentionality — Emphasizing meaningful and deliberate approaches in creative work.

Resources

Height Drop Podcast — A podcast focused on movement, culture, and personal growth.

MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani’s — A podcast format discussed as an inspiration for creative interview styles.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Questions with Sebastián Ruiz Jiménez

October 28, 2021

Questions with Sebastián Ruiz Jiménez

How does exploring one’s center and asking questions influence personal growth and understanding?

Asking the right questions transforms challenges into opportunities for growth.

I think that a way to find creativity and inspiration is, try to read something, try to see something that is not what you usually see, that is not what you usually do. Make yourself feel uncomfortable, and make yourself feel comfortable in the uncomfortable.

~ Sebastián Ruiz Jiménez (2:30)

The discussion explores the concept of finding one’s center and how this aligns with personal growth. Sebastián emphasizes the importance of stepping outside comfort zones to spark creativity and curiosity. He shares insights on seeking inspiration through diverse experiences, such as books, podcasts, and challenging unfamiliar activities.

The conversation also touches on the importance of asking meaningful questions, both of oneself and others, to uncover purpose and direction. Philosophical principles, movement practices, and mindfulness techniques are interwoven to illustrate how individuals can align their actions with deeper values. Practical lessons, like maintaining good technique in physical training, underscore the need for balance and awareness.

Takeaways

Finding inspiration — Engage with unfamiliar or challenging ideas to spark creativity.

The importance of questions — Use questions to challenge assumptions and uncover deeper understanding.

Solid foundations — Build strong roots and bases to support sustainable growth.

Teaching through challenges — Encourage self-discovery by posing questions and fostering problem-solving.

Movement as a center — Align physical and mental practices with a central guiding principle.

Mindfulness in action — Maintain awareness by centering thoughts and actions in everyday life.

Avoiding injury — Prioritize proper technique and self-awareness to prevent harm.

Philosophical connections — Relate ideas from philosophy to practical life applications.

Resources

Simon Sinek — Author of “Start With Why” and creator of the Golden Circle framework, emphasizing the importance of purpose in personal and professional contexts.

Start With Why — A book by Simon Sinek that discusses the power of understanding “why” to drive inspiration and success.

Peace Revolution — A meditation project by a Buddhist foundation in Thailand, promoting inner peace as a foundation for sustainable world peace.

Rise of the Guardians — An animated film by DreamWorks that explores themes of purpose and identity through characters like Santa Claus and Jack Frost.

CrossFit — A functional fitness training program combining strength and conditioning, emphasizing holistic body movement.

Sebastián Ruiz Jiménez on LinkedIn

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Perspective with Chris Grant

October 28, 2021

Perspective with Chris Grant

What lessons and insights can be drawn from personal experiences in Parkour and community development?

Exploring how personal growth intertwines with professional experiences in Parkour and community development.

Getting things out there, 85, 90% done, and then there maybe being a few little fixes you do, is actually harmless compared to making people wait or never getting to the end of a project.

~ Chris Grant (15:49)

The conversation explores the evolution of roles and responsibilities within the Parkour community. Chris discusses his transition from being a coach to a development manager at Parkour UK, emphasizing the value of building systems that support practitioners. He reflects on how stepping back from Parkour full-time provided him with a broader perspective and transferable skills, which he now applies to help others in the community.

The discussion also touches on practical advice for those navigating entrepreneurial endeavors in niche fields. Topics include the importance of financial stability, embracing imperfection in projects, and the benefits of setting boundaries to avoid burnout. Chris highlights the need for humility and openness to new learning opportunities, even after years of experience in a field.

Takeaways

Financial stability — A foundational element that enables greater flexibility and decision-making power.

Adaptability — Skills learned outside a primary field often enhance one’s ability to contribute meaningfully.

Perfectionism — Often a barrier to progress, where action is more valuable than ideal outcomes.

Community support — Building systems that ease the workload of active practitioners is vital for growth.

Perspective — Stepping away from a practice can offer valuable insights when re-engaging with it later.

Boundaries — Setting limits on work hours is crucial for maintaining personal well-being and professional effectiveness.

Continual learning — Embracing a mindset of humility and constant improvement enhances one’s impact.

Resources

Parkour UK — An organization focused on the development and promotion of Parkour in the UK.

Chris Grant on LinkedIn

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Learning with Steven Low

October 27, 2021

Learning with Steven Low

How does one balance pursuing multiple creative and physical endeavors while maintaining long-term growth and curiosity?

Practical insights into climbing, gymnastics, and writing illuminate the shared themes of persistence and adaptability.

My real goal is to get people thinking about how to apply all these different kinds of steps to their own training or injuries or whatever they are working on and be able to do things for themselves.

~ Steven Low (15:59)

This conversation weaves through the journey of pursuing physical and creative challenges, reflecting on how to balance growth and curiosity over time. Topics range from the iterative process of writing deeply informative books to the physical and mental intricacies of climbing and gymnastics. The discussion emphasizes the importance of problem-solving and adapting methods based on personal experiences and new scientific insights.

Personal anecdotes highlight the interplay of curiosity, physical limitations, and the satisfaction derived from mastering difficult tasks. The conversation touches on teaching as a vehicle for personal fulfillment, drawing parallels between activities such as rock climbing and whitewater rafting in terms of their unique ability to offer new perspectives and foster resilience.

Takeaways

The process of iterative refinement — Decisions about revisiting or updating projects depend on scientific advancements and user needs.

The importance of problem-solving — Physical activities like climbing offer unique opportunities for analytical thinking and pushing limits.

Balancing multiple interests — Shifting focus to new projects can sustain long-term curiosity and motivation.

Encouraging independent learning — Teaching concepts rather than step-by-step instructions fosters autonomy and adaptability.

Practical application of concepts — Trial and error helps individuals tailor training approaches to their unique circumstances.

Avoiding repetitive monotony — Preference for varied and challenging activities highlights the value of engaging pursuits.

The role of curiosity in growth — Directed curiosity helps bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

The appeal of outdoor activities — Activities like climbing and hiking combine physical effort with an appreciation for nature.

Adapting training methods — Personal experience and feedback guide modifications to improve outcomes.

The significance of goal-oriented training — Structured challenges provide satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment.

The interplay of teaching and learning — Effective teaching ignites curiosity and helps others become self-sufficient problem solvers.

Resources

Overcoming Gravity — Steven’s book focused on mastering gymnastics-inspired training.

Overcoming Poor Posture — Steven’s book addressing common posture problems and their solutions.

Steven Low’s Blog — Articles exploring fitness, health, and training methodologies.

Steven Low on LinkedIn

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Curiosity with Flynn Disney

October 25, 2021

Curiosity with Flynn Disney

What role does curiosity play in shaping movement, interactions, and personal growth?

The nuanced relationship between uncertainty and opportunity defines how we engage with challenges.

If you protect yourself from all uncertainty, maybe you are protecting yourself from falling down a well or getting eaten by a bear, but you’re also protecting yourself from love.

~ Flynn Disney (8:05)

The conversation begins with an exploration of curiosity as a driving force behind personal growth and movement practices. Curiosity is described as a positive sense of uncertainty, where individuals embrace the unknown with hope rather than fear. This attitude ties directly to embodied experiences, where physical movement reflects the mental and emotional processes involved in navigating uncertainty.

The discussion touches on boundaries, games, and goals, emphasizing their roles in learning and engagement. A notable insight is the idea that boundaries create meaning in challenges, as seen in activities like parkour and games. The interplay of failure and success, described as the resolution of uncertainty, is vital for developing curiosity and staying motivated. Personal anecdotes, such as training dogs and solving puzzles, highlight how curiosity manifests across diverse contexts.

Takeaways

Curiosity as a mindset — Embracing uncertainty with positivity leads to exploration and growth.

Boundaries and goals — Defining clear limits gives meaning and direction to challenges.

Failure as a tool — Error and near-success foster curiosity and engagement.

The role of games — Structured play highlights universal principles of learning and connection.

Embodied practices — Physical movement reflects and reinforces mental and emotional exploration.

Uncertainty’s dual nature — It holds risks and opportunities, requiring a balance to embrace.

Social dynamics — Shared curiosity creates a sense of belonging and mutual understanding.

Resources

Flynn Disney on LinkedIn

Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi — Explores the concept of engaging deeply in activities that balance skill and challenge.

Parkour training insights — Explores the movement discipline emphasizing adaptability and exploration.

Rubik’s Cube puzzles — Used in the conversation as a metaphor for learning through trial and error.

Positive uncertainty — The philosophical and psychological exploration of uncertainty’s benefits.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Intentionality with Olof Wood

October 21, 2021

Intentionality with Olof Wood

What unique insights and challenges arise from participating in World Chase Tag and how do they intersect with the broader culture and practices of parkour?

This discussion explores the tension between preserving authenticity and adapting for mainstream appeal in parkour competitions.

Being playful, goofing around, is part of keeping your head in the game. And if you lose that playfulness, that’s when I get really worried that I won’t be able to perform.

~ Olof Wood (15:20)

The conversation examines World Chase Tag as a competitive extension of parkour, highlighting its demands on reflexes and decision-making. The interplay of flow states and logical strategies is emphasized as central to mastering the sport. Its unique blend of simplicity and complexity offers accessibility to audiences and athletes while retaining its competitive edge.

Discussions also touch upon social media’s influence on parkour practitioners. By choosing to disengage from traditional platforms, Olof reflects on authenticity and how parkour communities could benefit from self-owned platforms. The broader implications for personal evolution within parkour are also explored, with insights into adapting practices to life’s changing demands.

Takeaways

Reflexive demands of World Chase Tag — Highlighted as a unique intersection of logical strategy and flow states that enhance traditional parkour.

Challenges in mainstreaming parkour — Explored through the potential compromises between authenticity and large-scale appeal in events like WCT.

Playfulness as a performance key — Underlined as crucial for maintaining focus and avoiding burnout during competitions.

Social media’s impact on creativity — Discussed as a double-edged sword influencing personal expression and community engagement.

Adaptability in parkour practice — Acknowledged as vital for sustaining participation through different life phases.

Resources

World Chase Tag Official Website — The central hub for World Chase Tag competitions and information.

Outrun Parkour — The parkour gym where Olof coaches.

Urban Jumpers App — Highlighted as a parkour-focused social media alternative.

Olof Wood @olofwood

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Tetris

October 18, 2021

As I mentioned last week, I was recently on a rather long road trip doing some recording for the Movers Mindset project. I took a lot of stuff on the trip, but here’s the two bags which comprised the complete podcast setup—everything I need to press record is in these two bags. The rectangular bag is a proper, no-cheating, most-stingy-airline carry-on size.

And here’s what’s inside: Two full-size (albeit lightweight) mic stands, 2 sets of full-size headphones, and 3 containers of all the podcast recording and listening electronics. (And it’s all battery powered to boot.)

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Forced simplicity

October 17, 2021

I’ve talked previously about simplicity. In particular, the idea that imformed simplicity, following from a beginner’s mind which has moved through understanding the complexity of a topic, is the hallmark of mastery practice. But forced simplicity is an entirely different animal.

Occassionally, I really need to stretch out and tear into some hard work. This week I did 8, long-form recordings in 5 days. Driving, sometimes eating, more driving, arrive, set up, record, drive, sleep, and on and on. At night I’m trying to quickly come up with a plan for the next day; I have to be where, when? …drive time? …traffic? And before I can be comfortable I have the next day under control, I need to get to sleep. Small bits of online work need to be done here and there—

I’m literally sitting by a campfire. My Mac is wifi’d to my iPhone’s cell service. I’m uploading a 90mb audio file to Movers Mindset’s project management system, as I type this blog post.

—then it’s time to sleep. Then jump up and leap into the next day. Organize the van. Is there time to shower today? (This is a real decision, and the answer was not always, ‘yes.’) Can I do my journaling? …not this week? My usual reading? …not this week. Everything I did for 6+ days was laser focused on what happens between when I press “record” and “stop.” Arrive at the location and bring my A-game. Under- or over-caffeinated, sleepy, prepared or not, … game. on.

Forced simplicity can be brutal. But, I got the good tape.

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Balance with Adrienne Toumayan

October 14, 2021

Balance with Adrienne Toumayan

What insights and experiences are shared about balancing personal life, professional commitments, and community involvement in Parkour and humanitarian work?

The journey from Washington, DC, to sabbatical in Scotland highlights the value of rest and self-reflection.

You don’t need to earn a break; you’re allowed to just take time off and breathe and enjoy your life a little bit.

~ Adrienne Toumayan (4:59)

The conversation begins with reflections on taking a sabbatical and the challenges of prioritizing rest and recovery. Insights are shared on overcoming self-doubt and embracing the freedom to recharge. Adrienne discusses their unique journey, transitioning between a demanding career in humanitarian aid and their deep involvement in Parkour, where she has contributed to events like the North American Women’s Parkour Gathering.

The dialogue also explores the Adrienne’s contributions to Parkour Earth, emphasizing the importance of foundational work in creating a transparent and inclusive global organization. Additionally, she shares her passion for storytelling through blogs and Instagram, using these platforms to connect with others and inspire engagement with their adventures. The beauty of the Scottish Highlands is also highlighted as a source of inspiration and joy during her sabbatical.

Takeaways

Balancing professional and personal life — Insights on the decision to take a sabbatical and its impact on personal well-being.

Parkour Earth’s mission — Efforts to create a global, transparent organization uniting diverse Parkour communities.

Storytelling through digital platforms — The role of blogs and Instagram in sharing experiences and connecting with others.

Cultural and geographical inspiration — Reflections on the transformative power of travel, especially in Scotland.

Identity and duality — Challenges of navigating a double life between Parkour and humanitarian aid work.

Resources

Adrienne’s Instagram — Personal insights and adventures shared through photography and stories.

North American Women’s Parkour Gathering — Event promoting women’s involvement in Parkour.

Parkour Earth — Global organization fostering the Parkour community.

Isle of Skye — Destination discussed for its magical landscapes and inspiration.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Embarking on writing

September 26, 2021

What’s it for?

For as long as I’ve been recording podcasts I’ve wanted to figure out how to learn more, and retain more, from the conversations. An audio recording of a good conversation can be a good experience for the listener; It can be good experiential learning. But the conversations contain so much more—facts sure, but also connections to other people, projects, stories, new perspectives, insights—which I know I’m missing. If something prompts my memory, I can recall the experience of the conversation, but everything else is either never learned, or if it was, I’ve subsequently lost it.

I’m reminded of…

If you remember what an author says, you have learned something from reading him. If what he says is true, you have even learned something about the world. But whether it is a fact about the book or a fact about the world that you have learned, you have gained nothing but information if you have exercised only your memory. You have not been enlightened. Enlightenment is achieved only when, in addition to knowing what an author says, you know what he means and why he says it.

~ Mortimer Adler, author of How to Read a Book, 1972

There are multiple levels of understanding and learning, contained in each conversation. At the root of my feeling that I’m missing out is the knowledge that I’m only retaining the most-superficial level of the experience.

Who’s it for?

It’s obviously for me. But by doing the writing in public everyone who finds a specific episode interesting would be able to capture and retain more of those “levels of experience” for themselves.

What does success look like?

As I mentioned, my urge to do something more with the conversations is not new. In the Movers Mindset project, I have already experimented with ways to enable others to get more from each conversation. Two efforts in particular are worth discussing.

First, I’ve pushed the concept of episode notes to the limits of sanity. We have guest images, embedded audio player, guest pull-quotes, transcript excerpts, highlights, and the entire thing is organized by chapters—the audio files have embedded chapter information if your player-app supports it. Each section is cross-linked to the corresponding part of the full transcript; The transcripts are organized into sections which are linked back to the episode’s page. This takes massive effort involving myself, Melissa, Rev.com, custom software, and hours of time. Here, take a look at, Selene Yeager: Menopause, Health, and Writing.

Second, I’ve created a tool which enables exploring the episodes. If you were looking closely at Selene’s episode notes, you’ve seen one part of this already. The tool enables choosing a perspective, (for example, how did they answer the signature, three-words question,) and that perspective is dynamically inserted into the page that you saw. There are many other perspectives which you can interact with. (Imagine an old-fashioned, twist-adjustable kaleidoscope; the tool I built is the kaleidoscope and you’re pointing it at the entire Movers Mindset project.) If you want to try something mind-bending, take a look at, Exploring the Movers Mindset Project, where I explain it in more detail, and which includes embedded controls for playing with the current perspectives in real time.

Beyond those to efforts, I’ve always wanted to write something based on the Movers Mindset conversations. Unfortunately, they’re quite long adding to the difficulty of finding a “chunk” to work on. One of my goals in creating the Podcaster Community, was to create a short-form-conversations companion podcast. (Look for Podcaster Community wherever you listen, or you can play the episodes via embeds on the community’s forum.) Those conversations are targeted at 20 minutes which usually leads to a single, clear thread appearing in each episode. This gives me terrific material to work with as I explore how to get at the deeper levels of learning within each episode.

On July 15, 2021 I put up an article, On Storytelling, which is based on the first episode of the Podcaster Community’s companion show. That article was an experiment, and based on the responses it was a successful experiment.

Just figuring out how to write that article was an experiment. First I spent hours talking to various people about how to write an article from a conversation, and about what style, format and voice should be used in such an article. I tried a variety of tools for writing; Not simply “which text editor” but rather what process should I use. I tried: Listening and then starting with a blank page; Dumping the transcript into a spreadsheet (transcript in one column with a cell per block of dialog from each speaker) and converting each cell into corresponding prose in a second column; Working conceptually outwards to an outline of principles or topics, and then working back inwards to create prose. I eventually settled on a way to directly transform the raw transcript into a finished piece. Even though I’ve settled on a way to do it, it remains hard work. It took me three hours to write that experimental article. All of that to say: I’ve only done one, but I’m confident I can now do many more.

How many could I write? There are already 40+ episodes of the Podcaster Community’s show. I estimate there are 300 pieces of Movers Mindset episodes that could be articles. (Many episodes have 3+ threads of discussion, each the size of one of the Podcaster Community’s entire episodes.) I’ve also begun recording short-form-conversation episodes for Movers Mindset. With recording continuing across multiple projects, I have an effectively unlimited supply of raw material.

What’s the problem?

To free up enough time to write consistently, to make meaningful progress, my projects need to become a source of income for me. Movers Mindset has some patronage revenue, (you people are awesome,) and the Podcast Community has a core group of supporters, (also awesome,) which are covering its costs. But neither of them currently supports my life and creates space for this new writing.

My questions are…

Are the conversations valuable?

Would it be valuable to create articles from the conversations?

Would you be willing to support my writing efforts by supporting the Podcaster Community, or by supporing Movers Mindset?

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Joan Hanscom: Racing, Outreach, and Intense Passion

September 25, 2021

Joan Hanscom: Racing, outreach, and intense passion

What makes bike racing a unique and transformative experience for individuals and communities?

Bike racing is Joan Hanscom’s life; from racing for fun, to professionally organizing races, to running an entire bike racing organization, Joan has done it all. She talks about all things bike racing; from how she got started, to organizing, to the challenges facing women in the sport. Joan discusses her work at the Valley Preferred Cycling Center, and the importance of outreach and the larger picture. She shares her insights on passion, training, podcasting, and what a career in the sport means to her.

As a person who’s had a career in bike racing since 2002, I was well versed in knowing what the velodrome was, and it was sort of an honor to be tasked with this role. If there’s one thing that I want the velodrome to be is, it’s fun, because that matters. But I also want it to be a place where little kids Pee Wee Pedalers, Squirts and Weebles Wobbles, all the way up to master’s racers, and everybody in between, elite or not, can come and have fun. To me, it’s a place where we can cultivate this lifelong enjoyment of the bike.

~ Joan Hanscom (20:53)

Joan Hanscom is a cyclist, podcast host, and the Executive Director at Valley Preferred Cycling Center. Her love of the sport helped her build a unique career in race promotion and production, working with organizations such as the US Gran Prix of Cyclocross, Cyclocross World Championships, and USA Cycling. Currently, Joan is the Executive Director of the Valley Preferred Cycling center in Trexlertown, Pa, and hosts the Talk of the T-Town podcast.

It’s the process. It’s the process, no matter what your pursuit is. If you are pursuing excellence in the ballet, it is repetition. It is absolutely repetition. The process of the ballet is every day, there’s a bar, there’s plies, there’s grand plies. There’s jete. It’s a repetition and it’s a process of perfection. Maybe ballet is skewed a little bit more towards perfection than other sports, but it is definitely a repetition and a process and a refinement that you do daily.

~ Joan Hanscom (42:50)

This conversation centers on the multifaceted world of cycling, highlighting its unique sensory and communal experiences. A core theme is the immersive nature of bike racing, from the visceral sounds and sights at the velodrome to the inclusive, community-focused atmosphere it fosters. Joan reflects on her lifelong passion for cycling, tracing it back to her childhood and describing how the sport bridges personal enjoyment and professional achievement. She shares her experiences in organizing races, engaging the local cycling community, and her work at the Valley Preferred Cycling Center, aiming to create an inclusive space for all cyclists, from children to elite athletes.

Another key discussion point is the systemic challenges in the sport, especially regarding women’s participation. Joan outlines how structural gaps, like fewer racing categories and opportunities for women, make progression difficult. She emphasizes the need for investment in underserved groups, stressing that fostering diversity and inclusion can strengthen the sport and grow its community. Alongside these insights, Joan connects cycling to broader values of process, repetition, and community building, drawing parallels to other disciplines like ballet and movement practices.

Takeaways

Creating inclusive cycling spaces — Efforts to address systemic challenges in women’s cycling highlight the importance of structured opportunities and community support.

The magic of the velodrome — The velodrome offers an unmatched sensory experience, combining sound, motion, and closeness to the action.

Community and connection — Cycling builds bridges across diverse groups, creating bonds between families, athletes, and local communities.

Repetition and mastery — The parallels between cycling, ballet, and other disciplines emphasize the value of process and refinement.

Economic potential of cycling — Integrating cycling with local tourism and community planning can make it an economic driver for regions like the Lehigh Valley.

Outreach challenges — Expanding cycling’s reach requires engaging new audiences and addressing modern distractions and competition.

Resources

Valley Preferred Cycling Center — The premier venue for track cycling in Trexlertown, PA, hosting programs for all ages and skill levels.

Podcast: Talk of T-Town

Discover Lehigh Valley — A regional tourism organization collaborating with cycling events to promote local attractions.

Rodale Institute — A partner organization focused on sustainable farming and preserving the scenic roads used by cyclists.

TrainingPeaks — A platform for planning and tracking structured training programs, mentioned for its role in athletic preparation.

Artemis Racing group; unique and thorough onboarding process, really made it accessible

Cycling museum in Belgium: Tour of Flanders Museum

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Longevity with Callum Powell

September 24, 2021

Longevity with Callum Powell

What insights can be gained from a 15-year journey with Parkour, including its challenges, influences, and personal growth?

Parkour becomes a lens to explore passion, longevity, and the evolution of personal practice.

The thing with Parkour, we don’t have enough money in our industry right now to care enough about rehab and pre-hab… strength and conditioning and everything.

~ Callum Powell (18:48)

The conversation focuses on Callum’s 15-year journey with Parkour, exploring how his passion has remained steadfast despite challenges. He discusses the balance between pursuing high-level skills and staying connected to the joy of movement. Injuries have played a significant role in shaping his approach, forcing him to listen to his body and adopt a more generalist mindset. This shift has led to a deeper appreciation for longevity and sustainability in practice.

Another key topic is the cultural and structural aspects of Parkour, including the lack of resources for injury prevention and recovery. Callum highlights his efforts to learn from other sports and share this knowledge with the Parkour community. Additionally, he reflect on the concepts of performance, play, and dedication, emphasizing the importance of adapting one’s goals over time to maintain passion and fulfillment.

Takeaways

Performance and play — The duality of structured skill progression and unstructured enjoyment enhances long-term practice.

Longevity in movement — A focus on listening to the body and adapting goals ensures sustainable engagement in Parkour.

Impact of injury — Challenges like back pain can lead to profound shifts in mindset and training philosophy.

Cultural growth — The Parkour community’s lack of resources for rehab and pre-hab presents opportunities for learning from other sports.

Role of identity — Letting go of peak-focused identities allows for more holistic and fulfilling movement experiences.

Sharing knowledge — Writing and teaching become powerful tools for giving back to the community.

Resources

Callum Powell @callumstorror

Chris Rowat’s “Dilution” — A foundational text mentioned for its enduring relevance to Parkour philosophy.

Parkour Generations — Organization influential in promoting longevity and education in movement.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Exploration with Pedro Bessa

September 23, 2021

Exploration with Pedro Bessa

What role do movement and Parkour play in personal growth and self-discovery?

The journey from childhood play to structured Parkour reveals profound insights into discipline and self-development.

In order to be free, you have to do what you feel is the right thing, not just what you want to do the whole time.

~ Pedro Bessa (21:28)

The conversation examines the transition from casual exploration to structured training in Parkour, highlighting the importance of discipline, values, and self-discovery. Pedro shares how childhood experiences with activities like BMX and skateboarding laid a foundation for Parkour. He emphasizes that movement is not merely about physical achievement but about cultivating a mindset that fosters lifelong exploration and learning.

The discussion touches on coaching and self-training, focusing on the role of community and individual accountability. Pedro reflects on the impact of values like honesty and persistence in self-directed training. Additionally, he discusses how traveling and experiencing new environments and cultures enhances both physical practice and personal growth.

Takeaways

The transition from challenges to training — The evolution of movement from playful challenges to structured Parkour.

The philosophy of exploration — Applying lessons from movement to various areas of life.

The importance of values — How honesty and discipline shape self-coaching and personal growth.

The role of community — How collaborative feedback and shared experiences enhance training.

The impact of travel — How experiencing different cultures and environments fosters unique physical and mental growth.

The magic of shared play — How engaging with others in Parkour creates meaningful connections.

Discipline as freedom — How structured practice enables more profound personal liberation.

Resources

ADAPT Qualifications — The coaching program discussed, emphasizing structure in Parkour training.

Parkour Generations — An organization mentioned as a source of learning and coaching in the discipline.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Obsession with Andrew Obenreder

September 1, 2021

Obsession with Andrew Obenreder

How does an obsession with movement shape personal practices and creative expression?

Exploring movement extends beyond physicality into music, art, and mindfulness.

I try to listen to whatever my heart tells me to be doing.

~ Andrew Obenreder (5:37)

The conversation explores Andrew’s lifelong obsession with movement and its far-reaching impact on personal and creative practices. Movement, in this context, is not just about physicality but also integrates art forms such as music, painting, and tattooing. Andrew describes movement as an intrinsic part of their life, dating back to childhood, where their passion extended even to the mechanical elegance of trains. He also reflects on how balance is a recurring theme—balancing creative urges, physical demands, and mental well-being.

Stress and mindfulness emerge as critical themes. Andrew challenges traditional notions of stress, suggesting it can be constructive in pushing boundaries. He also emphasize the importance of being present and prioritizing genuine desires over societal or internal pressures to perform. This perspective encourages letting go of “should” and replacing it with intentional actions aligned with personal motivations.

Takeaways

Balancing movement and creativity — Movement intertwines with various creative pursuits like art, music, and tattooing, requiring a balance between physical and mental expressions.

The role of stress — Stress can be both destructive and constructive, depending on how it is perceived and managed.

Mindfulness in practice — Remaining present and listening to immediate desires shapes both personal growth and movement practices.

The concept of “should” — Avoiding unnecessary obligations creates freedom and reduces stress.

Universal struggles — Everyone experiences moments of stagnation, regardless of expertise or experience.

Movement as identity — Movement is deeply personal and rooted in early life experiences.

Resources

MÜV — Andrew’s periodical mixing written, audio and visual mediums.

David Allen’s “Getting Things Done” — A productivity system mentioned for its advice on balancing commitments.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Selene Yeager: Menopause, health, and writing

August 4, 2021

Selene Yeager: Menopause, health, and writing

What challenges and insights arise from navigating menopause, maintaining health, and balancing creative pursuits?

Selene Yeager doesn’t shy away from topics other might avoid; in fact, she is leading the conversation around menopause. She shares her journey into creating a podcast about menopause, and her own experiences with menopause. Selene explains her thoughts on diet, nutrition, health tracking, and cycling. She discusses her relationship with writing, and what she’s currently reading.

Women drop out at the other end of the spectrum just as much, because they’re alone, their bodies are changing, and it’s worse; you feel like Carrie. It’s almost like Carrie. Remember that Stephen King book? No one is telling you these changes that are going to happen.

~ Selene Yeager (8:30)

Selene Yeager is a professional health and fitness writer, cycling and nutrition coach, personal trainer, athlete, and podcast host. She has written articles for many publications, including Bicycling Magazine, Runner’s World, and Men’s and Women’s Health, in addition to authoring, co-authoring, and contributing to over 2 dozen books. Beyond writing, Selene is the host of Hit Play Not Pause, a podcast focusing on menopause for athletes.

The conversation explores the complexities of menopause, emphasizing the intersection of physical changes, societal stigmas, and personal identity. Selene discusses her journey of embracing menopause as both a challenge and an opportunity, using her experiences to inspire and educate others. Topics such as hormonal fluctuations, their effects on mental and physical health, and the lack of open discourse surrounding menopause are examined.

In addition to menopause, the conversation highlights the speaker’s multi-faceted career as a writer, athlete, and podcaster. She shares insights into maintaining creative energy, managing time, and balancing professional and personal responsibilities. Discussions also touch on broader health themes like intermittent fasting, its specific impact on women, and the importance of listening to one’s body for optimal well-being.

Takeaways

The transformational journey of menopause — Women can navigate menopause as an empowering phase of self-discovery and growth despite societal stigma.

The interplay of science and storytelling — Communicating complex health information in relatable ways fosters understanding and action.

Challenges of aging athletes — Physical changes can lead to disconnection from familiar identities, but adaptation and support networks are crucial.

The pitfalls of intermittent fasting for women — Unlike men, women often experience adverse effects due to physiological differences.

Balancing creative and physical pursuits — Structuring time around energy rhythms can help sustain productivity and joy.

Supportive communities for menopausal women — Finding a network of peers can significantly ease the challenges of life transitions.

Resources

Hit Play Not Pause — Selene’s podcast focused on menopause for athletes, hosted by the speaker.

Feisty Menopause Community — Menopause guidance for active women.

Roar by Stacy Sims and Selene Yeager — A book addressing the unique needs of female athletes.

North American Menopause Society — Offers resources and certifications for professionals specializing in menopause care.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Campfire, marshmallows and conversation

July 29, 2021

Many moon ago, Movers Mindset had a weekly team meeting with 5 people. It was simply a video call to socialize. Work-related discussion was allowed, but mostly we were just talking about training, sharing instagram videos, discussing news and events in our sports and its surrounds, … that sort of stuff. Just hanging out with people who have a shared interest.

From the start we knew we didn’t want to record those calls. That suddenly makes everything too permanent; You have to show up looking not-insane, and you automatically hold back some of your energy to be on the safe side. But we also felt that we were losing something by having no artifact at all. Much of what we were discussing and sharing in the team call would be of interest to others— but we didn’t want non-team-members attending our private call. Thus, no recording. The meeting gave us what we needed, and that was good enough.

Time passed. (And many great team meetings were had.)

One day, as I sat around wondering how to make the already-great calls even better, my mind drifted as it so often does. It wandered back to the 80s/90s and I thought of the seemingly endless hours I’d spent on text-based chat with people in far off places. Stuck underground in some computer lab, (for real,) I’d open a text window and visit some distant friend. It was real-time interaction, but in a restricted medium; Restricted, at the time, because that’s all we had. But still, it was magical to have real-time access to other people. It felt so much more alive than bullentin boards (the online kind), Usenet, and email. Still wondering how to make our team meetings better, I recalled this once-in-a-lifetime experience I had.

It went like this…

A group of friends had all being doing Parkour together for several years. To be clear: We found ourselves doing Parkour together, and wound up a group of friends through countless shared experiences. (Ask me in person and I’ll tell ya’ some stories.) Two of the group eventually got married. The fellow ended up deployed to Afghanistan in a intelligence role with special forces. (I may have the details wrong, sue me.) Suffice it to say: Half a world away from everyone, and while not physically in immenent danger, his day-to-day surroundings drove him to depression. One day he apparently reached the cliff’s edge and in a fit of frustration he sent a message to a dozen-or-so of us, (which included his wife,) with an enormous brain dump of his current state.

He’d sent a Facebook Messenger direct-message—apparently one of the few channels he was permitted. This wall of text arrives in my phone, with a bright and cheery *ding* I suddenly have this giant message from my good friend. I was delighted to hear from him, but all of it was news to me, and frankly none of it was good. Then, two magical things happened:

We promised that we’d do pushups immediately when he wrote to us, if he promised to never miss a day. It had a terrifically witty name—which I’m not sharing because then I’d have to tell you his first name. Every day, around 2pm my time—but it was unpredictable—*ding* and I’d end up doing pushups right in the middle of the super market. Literally. Once I got caught driving, and pulled over to the side of the road to do my pushups, and message back, done! It didn’t take us long before those of us on the dm-list were racing to see who could reply, “done!” first. Our far away friend became a sort of evil pushup assigning drill Sargeant. But there’s a twist. On day one, we all did 1 pushup. On day 2, we did 2. Then 3. Then 4… And yes, we were somewhere above 100 by the end of his deployment. (Spoiler: He returned home safely.) He repeatedly told us that every day he pretty much spent the entire day planning his daily entry in the back of his mind, and day-dreaming about making us all suffer the next number of pushups. Somehow, we small band of merry idiots managed to create a small daily dose of inspiration for our far away friend. (We all got pretty good at pushups too.)

The second piece of magic happened because we were all there for it in real time. We’d each do our pushups—as the numbers got stupid-large, you’d do them in sets and start reporting your reps in real-time. And somehow, the entire thing became performance art. Soon, we were having our friend pick an “animal of the day”, and it had to be different each day. Finished our pushups, we’d try to find and share funny photos, making up our own silly captions. We tried constantly to Rick Roll each other. We did anything we could think of to make our friend, and each other, laugh. Because we were doing this at the end of our friend’s day, he’d eventually “call it” when he was ready for sleep, and we’d all drop off. Years later, we still have in-circle nicknames for each other, and inside jokes that make me giggle even now as I’m typing.

One day, after it was over, I realized how special it had all been. I opened up Messenger on my desktop browser, and I tried to scroll back through the thousands of messages. I wanted to screenshot it all and somehow make a book to give just to those who were involved. But my browser crashed from all the images, animated GIFs, etc before I got even halfway.

Now, back to those weekly meetings I wanted to improve…

Having that story about our far away friend flash through my mind was the spark I needed! In our team meetings, I wanted to capture some of that ephemeral, asynchronous-messaging based, magic. I wanted our cool meeting to somehow also be a little bit performance art that left us with something that others could enjoy, (and even find useful.) My “campfires” ideas was born.

Campfire, marshmallows and conversation! The MM team gets together occasionally in a sort of free-form discussion that’s not quite a chat, and not quite a discussion. It’s a cross between instant chat and performance art.

Each week, as before, we had a completely ephemeral video call. But at the same time, in real time, we would all co-create a long Google Doc. That sounds silly—it is. And it’s hard to do as things move around in the document. But it feels like instant messaging. At the end of the set time, we ended the call, and I simply copy-n-pasted the contents into a Discourse thread.

We eventually stopped doing them as the team shrank. But if you want to see what they were, they’re all still there, in https://forum.moversmindset.com/c/campfires/37 — they still make me smile, and I’m so glad we did them.

What—you might wonder—makes we write all this up now?

I’m bringing back this beloved idea as: Campfires in the Podcaster Community.

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A mover’s mindset

July 26, 2021

It’s become clear, that somewhen in the last few years, I’ve lost a certain spark— some urge that used to be the initial impetus that got me moving. Out. And about. Moving and playing. It’s probably, simply age.

Efficacy is the power to produce a desired effect. Recognition of your own efficacy means that you have recognized your own potential for continued success and growth. Your choices of actions at this point are not based on concerns about current limits of your ability or understanding. Instead, your choices are guided by what skills, practices, and accomplishments will give you the most enjoyment, make your life better, increase your skills, or broaden your knowledge. Your experience in life changes from asking “What can I do?” to asking “What should I do to make my life the best it can be?”

~ From https://forum.moversmindset.com/t/discovery-reflection-efficacy/614

Where once I used to simply begin each day, and sooner or later I’d realize I’m doing something active, now I find that most days were going by without doing something active. I don’t like that trend. I went over everything in my environment and, quite honestly, little has changed—certainly nothing that would have sabotaged my being active. If the problem isn’t without, then it must be within.

And so, I’ve made a small change: What am I doing tomorrow? …then make a plan for that to happen.

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Mike Araujo: Coaching, World Chase Tag, and community

July 9, 2021

Mike Araujo: Coaching, World Chase Tag, and community

What role does movement, particularly parkour, play in fostering personal growth, connection, and creativity?

Playing tag on national television was never something Mike Araujo imagined when he started training parkour. He discusses his path in parkour and the opportunities he’s gained from it. Mike shares his experiences with World Chase Tag, and his thoughts on competition. He explains his personal definition of parkour, sharing it with others, and his thoughts on how the community has changed.

Everyone needs to find the thing that moves them to move. Whether that be parkour or whatever other sport. I think as long as you’re moving and connecting with people and your environment then you’re on the right path.

~ Mike Araujo (7:07)

Mike Araujo is an athlete and head coach with the Movement Creative. He has trained parkour in NYC for over a decade, and coached nearly as long. Mike often travels for parkour, and recently competed in World Chase Tag’s first USA based event.

The conversation explores the transformative power of parkour as a practice that transcends physical movement. Parkour serves as a medium for personal growth, offering opportunities to connect with one’s body and environment intentionally. The practice is presented as adaptable, requiring no specific equipment or space, which makes it accessible to anyone seeking a meaningful connection with movement.

The discussion also examines parkour’s evolving culture, from intimate, small gatherings to large-scale global events. Topics include the impact of structured competitions like World Chase Tag, the community’s adaptation during the pandemic, and the balance between maintaining the sport’s original spirit while embracing its growth. Reflections on coaching and transitions in life highlight the importance of aligning passion with action, even when faced with uncertainty.

Takeaways

Movement as nourishment — Physical activity is essential for mental and physical well-being.

The intention behind practice — The focus should be on personal growth and meaningful connection, not just the movements themselves.

Accessibility of parkour — As a discipline, it requires minimal resources and emphasizes adaptability.

Coaching philosophies — Evolving as a coach means shifting from making others love the discipline to helping them find their own path.

Parkour and community — The growth of events and gatherings showcases how parkour fosters connections among practitioners worldwide.

Competitions and novelty — Events like World Chase Tag add new dimensions to training, blending creativity and structured athleticism.

Resources

Mike Araujo @pyro4pk

The Movement Creative — Parkour coaching and event organization company.

World Chase Tag — Competitive tag event blending parkour with high-speed athleticism.

Jump London — A documentary showcasing the origins of parkour.

Max Henry @maxhenryparkour — Parkour athlete and author known for his innovative approach to movement.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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