In this episode of Zone2Speak, I go behind the scenes of the gravel racing world with one of its most beloved figures: Wayne Smith, aka @bigtallwayne. As Peter Stetina’s trusted mechanic and a fixture at some of the world’s biggest off-road events, Wayne brings unmatched expertise, humor, and heart to everything he does. We dive into the high-stakes role of a race mechanic, what it’s really like to prep bikes under pressure, and how Wayne found himself crossing over from the pits to the start line at The Traka 100. From roadside saves to the emotional side of supporting elite athletes, Wayne shares unforgettable stories, wrenching wisdom, and why gravel means more than just grit. Whether you're deep in the gravel scene or just love a great behind-the-scenes story, this one’s for you. --- Follow Wayne Smith Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigtallwayne/ Stories & Glories: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v60DQt-jhek --- 🎁 Discounts for Zone2Speak Listeners! Use code ZONE2SPEAK to save on top-tier performance and wellness products: 🚴♂️ Cycplus Smart Pump – 10% off (plus 5% off everything else) A compact, powerful pump ideal for cyclists and endurance athletes - Use code: ZONE2SPEAK: https://www.cycplus.com/?ref=zone2speak 💪 Pulsio – Powerful compression boots for faster recovery and fresher legs 10% off Trusted by pro athletes and endurance enthusiasts to boost circulation and speed up recovery — use code ZONE2SPEAK: https://pulsio.eu/ZONE2SPEAK 🌍 Down the Road – 15% off High-performance cycling apparel built for comfort and style - Use code: ZONE2SPEAK: https://downtheroad.cc 🧬 OLEUS – 15% off Science-backed supplements focused on performance, recovery, and overall well-being. Thoughtfully formulated to support active lifestyles - Use code: ZONE2SPEAK15: https://oleus.com 🥤 Nuzest – 15% off Clean, plant-based protein designed to support recovery and performance without artificial additives - Use code: ZONE2SPEAK: https://www.nuzest.co.uk/zone2speak ☕ Clearly Not Coffee – 10% off A functional blend of cacao, mushrooms, maca, and adaptogens for calm energy and focus - Use code: ZONE2SPEAK: https://clearly.eu/zone2speak 🍃 Codeage – 10% off A leading supplement brand offering collagen, vitamins, liposomal blends, probiotics, and more - Use code: ZONE2SPEAK: https://www.codeage.com/ 🎧 Shokz Bone Conduction Headphones – £10 off Designed for situational awareness while training outdoors - Use code: ZONE2SPEAK: https://uk.shokz.com?sca_ref=8382102.Xbr34XfTZS&utm_source=website&utm_medium=affiliate_program&utm_campaign=ukaffiliate_standard-podcast-commission_juliana-veterano_8382102 🔇 Loop Earplugs – 10% off Earplugs to reduce noise and control sensory overload to help you focus - Use code: AFF_ZONE2SPEAK10: https://loop-earplugs.sjv.io/zone2spea 🧴 Fre Skincare – 35% off Skincare designed specifically for active lifestyles and skin that sweats - Use code: ZONE2SPEAK: https://www.freskincare.com/zone2speak 💪 First Endurance – 20% off Trusted by elite endurance athletes for science-backed nutrition, fueling, and recovery - Use code: ZONE2SPEAK: https://firstendurance.com/?avad=407293_a3fef4821 🥣 Huel – Nutritionally complete meals High-protein, plant-based meals packed with essential nutrients—perfect for busy athletes - Use code: ZONE2SPEAK: https://uk.huel.com/pages/loudcrowd-ambassador?utm_medium=influencer&utm_source=loudcrowd&lc_ambassador_id=Y3VzdG9tZXI6NTgzNTY3O 🌿 Genki Wellness – 25% off Personalized nutrition and coaching for sustainable wellness - Use code: ZONE2SPEAK: https://www.bemoregenki.com 🏋️♂️ OMRE Supplements – 15% off Premium supplements to support strength, stamina, and recovery- Use code: ZONE2SPEAK: https://omresupplements.com 💪 Save on top products to elevate your health, performance, and recovery! --- To all of my listeners, thank you for your continued support! Follow Zone2Speak Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zone2speak/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@zone2speak/videos Follow Host Juliana V: https://www.instagram.com/this.is.juliana.v/
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