Lando Steezy: The Real Story of How Cycling Saved His Life

Lando Steezy (Leo Smith) has one of the rawest and most inspiring stories we've ever had on The Ride Companion.

From growing up homeless, losing family members, watching friends fall into crime and addiction and nearly going down the same path himself, to discovering BMX and eventually becoming one of the most recognisable and influential riders in UK mountain biking, his journey is unreal.

In this episode, Lando opens up about his turbulent childhood in Macclesfield, the moment that changed his life at 14, the friends he lost along the way, and how riding became his escape and ultimately his purpose. He talks about the first viral TikTok that blew up overnight, nearly turning down an Anthill Films shoot because he didn't know who they were, and how his partner pushed him back onto social media when he'd lost the love. We dig into representation in MTB, the crossover between wheelie culture and mountain biking, his creative work outside of riding, the grief and anxiety he's learned to manage, and why gravel bikes have become such a big part of his life.

This is one of the most honest and powerful conversations we've recorded and we're massively grateful to Lando for being so open. We hope you enjoy the episode.

The Ride Companion Christmas Ride at BikePark Wales!

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