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Stephen Fitzgerald: Rodeo Adventure Labs Founder, 2025 Pinyons and Pines Winner #42
Episode Description
Today's guest is an endurance bikepacker, a trailblazer in the cycling world and the founder of Rodeo Adventure Labs, a company known for its creative, purpose-driven approach to bike design and entrepreneurial spirit. With a deep love for long, challenging rides and a commitment to building bikes that are meant to last, he brings both passion and pragmatism to everything he does. From testing prototypes in races to navigating the challenges of running a small business through COVID, tariffs, and shifting trends, he’s someone who truly lives and breathes bikes.
A quick note this episode was filmed just before the 2025 Pinyons and pines bikepacking race where Stephen took first place on his Rodeo Adventure Labs prototype Show Pony bike with a total time of 1 day, 19 hours and 56 minutes. Congratulations Stephen on your amazing effort.
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https://www.instagram.com/stevetheintern/
https://www.instagram.com/rodeolabs/
https://www.rodeo-labs.com/podcast/
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This episode is brought to you by:
Squirrel's Nut Butter - https://squirrelsnutbutter.com/discount/ENDURANCE20 Use code "ENDURANCE20" for 20% off!
Embark Maple Energy - https://www.embarkmaple.com Use code “EMBARK20” for 20% off!
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(00:00:00) - Intro, Guest, and Pre-Race Prep
(00:04:16) - Bike Setup, Gear, and Aero Bar Choices
(00:06:15) - Tech Reliability, Weather, and Sleep Strategies
(00:11:23) - Show Pony Project & Rodeo Labs Origins
(00:17:45) - Passion for Bikes and Running a Bike Business
(00:23:35) - Social Media’s Impact on the Bike Industry
(00:34:47) - Bike Design Ethos, Sustainability & Right to Repair
(00:50:55) - US Manufacturing Challenges & Opportunities
(01:08:00) - Design Decisions, Team Roles & Product Evolution
(01:14:18) - Brand Personality, Custom Paint & Wrap-Up
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#endurance #enduranceracing #enduranceathlete #endurancesports #adventure #bikepacking #bikepackracing