Cycling Over Sixty
The Cycling Over Sixty Podcast is meant to provide information and inspiration for anyone wanting to get and stay fit later in life. Host Tom Butler uses his own journey toward fitness as an example of what is possible by committing to healthy lifestyle practices. After decades of inactivity and poor health choices, Tom took on a major cycling challenge at age 60. He successfully completed that challenge and seeing the impact on his health, he determined to never go back to his old way of living. Each week, Tom shares a brief update on the triumphs and challenges of his jour...
Cycling Over Sixty Reboot
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Host Tom Butler opens season five of Cycling Over Sixty with an honest look back at a quiet season four. There were fewer episodes because Tom was building the next chapter of Cycling Over Sixty, and that work pulled him off the bike. His weight went up, his blood glucose control slipped, and he’s back on blood pressure medication. It’s a hard reminder of how much he needs to stay active, no matter how much else is going on.
From there, Tom lays out what Cycling Over Sixty is b...
Getting on a Bike in Your Seventies
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Host Tom Butler opens the episode with a reflection on this year's Seattle to Portland ride. It was made special by finishing in Portland with his daughter. He then introduces Sue Nicholson, a woman he considers a mentor. Sue came to cycling late, working her way in through mountaineering and kayaking before finding the sport in her 70s.
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 Tom and Sue get into her path from that first ride to bike-packing in her 70s, what it means to train differently as a woman after menopause, and the diabetes education work th...
Exercise is Medicine Advisor Dr. Gary McCall
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Host Tom Butler opens with the report he promised on his new Otso Warakin TI: a first long ride that turned into a navigation disaster but still delivered an encouraging first real test of the bike. He gets into what went wrong trying to find the trail, and what went right once the bike was moving, smooth on the gravel descents and surprisingly planted at thirty miles an hour on the road, on gravel tires. He also flags a knee that flared up and the setup questions he wants to solve before...
Getting a Gravel Bike
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In this short solo episode, host Tom Butler walks through the build of his newest bike: the Otso Warakin TI, a titanium gravel bike spec'd to be a true do-everything machine. This isn't a review. With only a handful of miles on the bike so far, it's an honest look at the decisions Tom made and why, the ones he feels confident about and the ones he'll have to wait and see on.
Tom gets into why he wanted a third bike in the first place, why he chose titanium...
Mark and Juno are Riding from Edinburgh to Athens
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Host Tom Butler shares a rundown of where Cycling Over Sixty stands today and how much the show has grown since its beginnings. As part of that update, Tom introduces the Cycling for Active Aging Network, a Pierce County partnership designed to reach adults over 55 who are physically inactive by adapting existing cycling programs to be more welcoming to older adults who are sedentary and maybe have never thought of themselves as cyclists.
Then Tom has a conversation with Mark Altman, a military veteran preparing to ride 3,000 miles from Edinburgh...
Self Healing with Julie Donnelly
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Host Tom Butler opens with a look at what's pushing him to get out on the bike more lately, including a recent lab report that didn't go the way he wanted. It's the kind of moment that can either derail a fitness journey or fuel it, and Tom is honest about how he's choosing to use it.
Then Tom welcomes Julie Donnelly, author of The Pain Free Athlete and a practitioner who has spent her career helping people get free of the pain that quietly derails so many active lives...
Dr. Kevin Smith on Functional Medicine
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 Can a simple change in chainring shape unlock more pedaling power? Tom Butler put oval chainrings on two bikes to find out. He also explores the value that bike clubs bring to a community — and suggests it might be bigger than many people think. Then Tom is joined by Dr. Kevin Smith, the clinician behind metabolicsolutions.net and the Chronic Conditions Center in Bethel Park, PA. Dr. Smith brings his knowledge of functional medicine to the podcast, helping listeners understand a more comprehensive view of health.Â
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The Way of Excellence with Stanley Bronstein
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Host Tom Butler continues to be real about his own fitness journey and just how common his experience really is. He also dives into the most concrete expression yet of an idea at the heart of the show: the bicycle as a medical device, spotlighting the Exercise is Medicine® initiative from the American College of Sports Medicine, which is working to make physical activity a standard part of clinical care.
Then Tom sits down with Stanley Bronstein, who shares a remarkable personal story of transformation through fitness and the hard-won p...
Beverly Meyer Want Us to Eat Like Humans
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A new FTP is cause for celebration — especially when it proves that getting fitter after sixty isn't just possible, it's happening. Tom Butler shares his latest benchmark and what it means for anyone who thinks their best fitness days are behind them.
Then, Tom sits down with Beverly Meyer, host of the Primal Diet - Modern Health podcast and a seasoned Clinical Nutritionist and Functional Health Expert. Beverly offers a refreshing lens on what it truly means to be healthy, explaining the functional health approach and why it looks beyond sy...
Cycling Hungary and Romania With Wire Donkey Tours
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In this episode of Cycling Over Sixty, host Tom Butler shares how a busy schedule and travel are throwing his cycling routine off track. Despite the challenges he is looking at this as an opportunity to learn how busy people can fit in rides. Tom also has exciting news—he reveals a new Cycling Over Sixty project that's currently in development.
Tom is joined by Peter Illés from Wired Donkey Tours, who shares the unique cycling tours he organizes. Peter's approach is all about creating authentic, small group experiences tha...
Coach Patrick McCabe
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As we close out an incredible year of cycling, host Tom Butler reflects on the highlights and challenges of 2025. Tom shares how he measured up against the goals he set at the start of the year and reveals his new targets for 2026.
In this episode, Tom welcomes Patrick McCabe, owner of Grit City Health in Tacoma, Washington, and a Cyclocross racing advocate. Patrick brings his expertise as both a personal trainer and Cyclocross coach to revisit the AI-generated training advice discussed in a recent episode. His perspective offers a compelling...
DeSalvo Custom Bicycles
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Host Tom Butler continues to dissect his ongoing struggle with a stubborn Achilles tendon injury and shares the strategies he's using to manage recovery while wanting to get back to doing longer rides. For anyone dealing with persistent injuries, Tom's discussion offers both solidarity and practical insights.
Then, Tom welcomes Mike DeSalvo of DeSalvo Custom Bicycles for a conversation about the art and science of custom frame building. With decades of experience crafting bicycles, Mike reveals his collaborative process for creating bikes that truly fit each cyclist's unique body, riding...
Interview with AI Coach Sarah
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In this episode, host Tom Butler shares insights from his recent experience wearing a Continuous Glucose Monitor and how it helps him make decisions about eating and activity.
Then, Tom takes an innovative approach to improving his cyclocross racing by consulting with Sarah—an AI coach he crafted specifically for his training needs. Sarah delivers surprisingly detailed and personalized recommendations covering everything from off-season preparation to in-season training protocols. Whether you're curious about the potential of AI coaching or looking for cyclocross training advice from a different source, this episode of...
More Than a Bike Shop
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In this episode, host Tom Butler reflects on three transformative years and shares the fitness strategy he plans to follow for the rest of his life. Then, Tom sits down with Seattle cycling legend Kathleen Emry, co-founder of Free Range Cycles in Fremont. Kathleen didn't just build a bike shop—she created a community hub that proved the bicycle can be a powerful connector, bringing people together around something greater than themselves. Whether you're a cyclist or simply believe in the power of community, this conversation will inspire you to see how tw...
From Solo To Group Touring
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Check out an episode that has host Tom Butler getting real about a troubling physical issue caused by his continued failure to develop a consistent flexibility program. He shares his strategy for making the necessary changes to overcome an injury that could keep him off the bike.
This week's guest, Ken Dyckman, brings more than a decade of touring wisdom to the podcast as he discusses his transition from solo cycling adventures to group tours. It's a nuanced exploration of change—Ken candidly shares the benefits he's looks forward to by...
Outside the Park in Whistler
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Join host Tom Butler as he takes listeners on an adventure in his search for a new bike – a quest that proves to be different than anticipated. Tom also shares his thoughts on a innovative pump he backed on Kickstarter, giving you the scoop on whether this crowdfunded cycling accessory lives up to its promises.
The episode features an engaging conversation with Dave Brengelmann, who shares his experienced insights on mountain biking in Whistler, British Columbia. While Whistler's Mountain Bike Park has earned worldwide fame, Dave makes a compelling case th...
ForeverGreen Trails
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In this episode of Cycling Over Sixty, host Tom Butler shares his recent dietary journey, giving a view of the ups and downs of his nutrition evolution and examining why his previous meal planning program didn't deliver the results he'd hoped for.Â
Then, Tom welcomes Larry Leveen, Executive Director of ForeverGreen Trails and a true force in the active transportation movement. Larry pulls back the curtain on the complex world of infrastructure advocacy, revealing the patience, persistence, and strategic thinking required to create safe spaces for cycling and walking in o...
Launching Season Four
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In this special episode of Cycling Over Sixty, the tables are turned as a guest host puts Tom Butler on the hot seat for an honest and revealing season retrospective. Tom opens up about the highs and lows of Season 3, sharing insights about what worked and what fell short of expectations.
Join us for an intimate conversation where Tom reflects on his favorite moments from the past season. He doesn't shy away from discussing the challenges either, addressing areas where Cycling Over Sixty can improve and grow.
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Data Science and Your Health
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In this episode of Cycling Over Sixty, host Tom Butler is already looking ahead to next year's cycling season while sharing his latest racing adventure. With the Tour de Cure Pacific Northwest still six months away in May, Tom explains why he's already planning for this spring event that he hopes will become an annual launch into the summer cycling season for Cycling Over Sixty.Â
Tom also recounts his first cyclocross race experience – a competition that took unexpected turns but left him eager for more racing adventures. His participation may have...
Sequim Wheelers
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Tom Butler kicks off this episode with an recap of the Tour de Victoria—an experience that ranks among Kelly's all-time favorite rides. Hear what made this event so memorable and why it left such a lasting impression.
Then, Tom sits down with Eric Mahnerd from Sequim Wheelers, a remarkable program that's changing lives through adaptive cycling. Using a diverse fleet of specialized bikes, Sequim Wheelers provides riding opportunities to people who would otherwise be unable to experience the outdoors on two wheels.
Eric talks about the logistics an...
Physician Coach
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Join host Tom Butler as he celebrates the success of the inaugural Cycling Over Sixty Annual Celebration of Cycling Later in Life and teases an exciting new collaboration bringing a special event next spring.
Tom then welcomes two remarkable guests who are helping to revolutionize healthcare: Dr. Audrey Falconi and Dr. Ayla Hopkins, co-founders of Physician Coach, an innovative medical clinic that places exercise at the very center of primary care.
In this inspiring conversation, discover how these forward-thinking physicians are transforming the traditional doctor-patient relationship by adopting...
Greater Eugene Area Riders
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Join host Tom Butler as he shares a minor challenge of organizing the first-ever Cycling Over Sixty annual event, set for September 14th. Tom explains how this year will be a laid-back event.
Fresh off his third Cascade Bicycle Club Seattle to Portland ride, Tom reflects on the personal goals he set for this cycling challenge and shares how he measured up against his expectations. Tom’s assessment offers insights into goal achievement after picking up cycling later in life.
The episode features an engaging conversation with Bob Le...
2025 Six Month Update
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Host Tom Butler returns to the microphone after taking some time away to share a mid-year progress report on his 2025 goals and ambitions.
In this candid update episode, Tom takes listeners through his cycling achievements from the first half of the year, revealing how his fitness journey has been progressing and what milestones he's reached. But the good news doesn't stop at personal cycling goals – Tom also dives into the developments happening with the podcast itself and shares updates on his efforts to build a thriving local Cycling Over Sixty co...
AFTR: the Cascade Palouse Trail
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Join host Tom Butler as he launches an new episode option for Cycling Over Sixty with the debut of "Alone for the Ride" (AFTR). In this immersive episode, Tom takes you on his first real gravel adventure along Washington's scenic Cascade Palouse Trail, blending real-time riding experiences with trail insights and spontaneous conversations with fellow cyclists along the way.
AFTR episodes are meant to put you on the trail with Tom, combining his personal journey tackling new terrain with practical information about the trail itself. You'll hear the crunch of g...
Can We Still Lobby for Bikes?
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Join host Tom Butler as he shares the results of his latest 60-mile ride that put his new nutrition and electrolyte strategy to the test. Tom breaks down the valuable lessons learned from this almost entirely successful challenge. Meanwhile, Kelly pushed her own boundaries on her longest ride to date while discovering just how far her e-bike battery can take her.
This week's episode features a conversation with true topic expert John DiPippa, Dean Emeritus and Distinguished Professor of Law and Public Policy. Who is also an avid cyclist. John...
Biking the Baja Divide
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Host Tom Butler talks about preparation to revisit one of his earliest long-distance cycling adventures. In this episode, He shares some differences that will make this trip a better effort. Tom also unveils the training strategies he's currently testing in preparation for this year's Seattle to Portland ride. In the second part of the episode, experienced cyclist Max Rosenberg joins the show to discuss one of bikepacking's demanding challenges: the Baja Divide. Max brings loads of adventure cycling experience to share essential survival strategies for this 1,700-mile route through Baja California's wilderness...
An Adventurer's Mindset
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Get ready for a dose of inspiration! This week on Cycling Over Sixty, host Tom Butler takes us on one of his most challenging rides yet: the Destiny Dozen in Tacoma, Washington. Then, it is on to an insightful conversation with Ken Reinke, author of The Road Spoke: Trepidation and Tranquility on a Bicycle Odyssey. Ken shares how embracing an adventurer's mindset and living in the moment has led to incredible cycling experiences.
LINKS
Cycling Without Age Website: cyclingwithoutage.org
PBS JoyRide: youtube.com...
Conversations Across America
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Responding to valuable listener feedback, Tom Butler kicks off this episode of the Cycling Over Sixty Podcast by welcoming his wife, Kelly, back to the microphone. Together, they delve deeper into the nuances of cycling as a couple, offering clarification and insights. Following that, we're honored to host Kari Loya, the author of the moving book, Conversations Across America: A Father and Son, Alzheimer's, and 300 Conversations Along the TransAmerica Bike Trail that Capture the Soul of America. Kari recounts the emotional and physical challenges of cycling cross-country with his father amidst the...
A New Cycling Season for Kelly
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Join Tom Butler on this week's Cycling Over Sixty episode as he contemplates a frugal move that might not be the most enjoyable. He also gives listeners a taste of a significant personal cycling challenge he's preparing for. The episode takes a heartwarming turn when Tom's wife, Kelly, joins him to explore the nuances of being a cycling family. They openly discuss their individual approaches to riding and the real-life considerations of crafting a summer full of active recreation that works for both of them.
Become a member of...
Crossing Bridges with Lisa Watts
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Ever feel like getting started is the hardest part? Join host Tom Butler on this episode of Cycling Over Sixty as he shares his personal journey of finally kicking off a new meal program, the initial hurdles he faced, and the interesting results he's already noticing. Then, prepare to be inspired by Lisa Watts, author of "Crossing Bridges: What Biking Up the East Coast Taught Me about Life After 60." Lisa recounts some of the unforgettable moments and profound life lessons learned during her incredible two-month cycling adventure with a close friend. Tom...
Revel Revolution Ride
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Two great reasons to tune in to Cycling Over Sixty this week! First, host Tom Butler passionately argues why the Olympic Discovery Trail deserves a spot on your cycling bucket list. Hear his insights and tips from a recent overnight trip that will have you planning your own adventure. Then, Tom connects with Gina Kavesh, a local cycling leader and co-president of the board at Cascade Bicycle Club. Gina shares her experiences in the world of racing and gives us the inside scoop on the Revel Revolution ride, a new event promising...
The Iron Horse Gravel Ride
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For this episode, join Tom as he shares a key ingredient in his cycling fitness: joyful miles spent riding alongside his wife, Kelly. Then, we welcome Liz Lunderman, the dynamic new Events Director for Cascade Bicycle Club! Get to know Liz and hear all about the cool new Iron Horse Gravel ride. Discover what it takes to bring a fantastic cycling event to life on a remote trail and meet a young leader shaping the future of our cycling community.
Become a member of the Cycling Over Sixty Strava...
The Bike is a Medical Device
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For this episode, host Tom Butler dives into the world of Strava apps. Looking for deeper insights into his training, Tom explores some intriguing options beyond the basics. Whether you're a data enthusiast or just curious to learn more, Tom shares a few apps he discovered.
Then, Tom takes listeners along to a meeting with the Tacoma Washington Bicycle Club (TWBC). Tune in as they discuss initiatives for the local Cycling Over Sixty program. Tom presents his view that the bike should be seen as a medical device. The collaboration...
Taiwan Cycling Route No. 1
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Join host Tom Butler on this week's episode as he gets candid about the ongoing battle to revamp his eating habits – a challenge many people pursuing healthy lifestyles can relate to! Tom also shares his growing excitement for combining his interest in train travel with cycling, dreaming up future adventures that blend scenic rail journeys with exhilarating cycling explorations.
Then, Tom welcomes guest Scott Gruber, who recounts his unforgettable experience tackling the iconic Taiwan Cycling Route No. 1. Hear all about the stunning landscapes, welcoming culture, and the sheer joy of ped...
An Epic India Bike Trip
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It's time for host Tom Butler to give the first look at how he is progressing toward his 2025 goals. There is good news to report so far. Tom also give some details on a family trip to experience the Olympic Discover Trail for the first time. It is a trip he would like to see everyone do.Â
Tom's guest this week is a podcast listener with a fantastic cycling story. After only getting into cycling a few years ago, she took on a challenging month long bike trip in India. Listen...
What Happens If I Injure My Knee?
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Join Tom Butler as Cycling Over Sixty celebrates an exciting milestone: 100 episodes! Tom takes a moment to reflect on the journey so far and share some exciting plans for the future of the podcast. Then, Tom welcomes his friend, Denis Beaulieu, a seasoned physical therapist, to the show. Tom and Denis delve into a personal and insightful conversation about knee injuries and recovery. Denis shares his own experience with a past knee injury, and provides expert perspective on what to expect during the healing process. They discuss the critical role of physical...
Inspiration From Dianne and Paul
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Looking for motivation, host Tom Butler jumps into a race on the virtual platform Zwift. The results were surprising and look to open a path for more improvement.Â
The interview this episode is packed with inspiration as Tom talks with Dianne Iverson and Paul Dutky about their use of a tandem bike to support their cycling journeys. The discussion with them includes their personal experiences and their dedication to creating a more safe and inclusive cycling community. Don't miss this episode packed with motivation and heartfelt stories!
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Barging In On The Netherlands
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This week on Cycling Over Sixty, host Tom Butler dives into the world of Functional Threshold Power (FTP) testing. He shares his personal experience with his first FTP test and unveils his 6-component plan to ensure reliable and effective fitness tracking. Learn how he plans to use FTP as a key metric for his cycling journey. In a creative twist, Tom welcomes Jesse Ferguson to produce a special segment exploring the unique charm of bicycle barge tours. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of picturesque landscapes, gentle canals, and the joy...
Embracing Habit Change
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Ready to build better habits? This episode of Cycling Over Sixty is for you! Host Tom Butler kicks things off with a lively report from the first group ride of the season, capturing the energy achieve ride goals. But the real focus here is on habit change. Tom shares his personal journey of cycling success over the past two years and connects it to the principles of building sustainable habits. He’ll break down science of habits and provide actionable strategies to help you implement positive changes in your life, whether it's re...
Becoming a Bike Advocate
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Join host Tom Butler on this week's Cycling Over Sixty podcast as he grapples with pre-season jitters! Tom confesses his apprehension about his training (or lack thereof) leading up to the first group ride of the year. He also makes an announcement about a new step he's taking to address his metabolic dysfunction.
This week's guest is Michael Payne, a lifelong cycling advocate. Michael shares his journey promoting better bike infrastructure and how his experiences living in Europe shaped his vision for what's possible in the US. Hear his inspiring pers...
