This Dirt Life with Amber Hoadley

This week on This Dirt Life we talk with Amber Hoadley, of Bangtail Bikes in Bozeman, Montana. Amber is a professional bike fitter, bike enthusiast, professional photographer to name a few. I met Amber last year at The Specialized Women’s Summit where we hit it off instantly. Both of us are the eldest of 4 which I think in itself gives its own merit. Amber Is a fantastic resource and is super stoked on bikes. She commutes to work daily, yes even just now in the Montana winter, but knows how to get you stoked on bikes too! If you’re ever in Bozeman, go in and give her a shout!

CREDITS

Host >>> Lisa Leonard

Follow Amber on Instagram >>> @amber.hoadley

Catch Amber at the best Bike shop in Bozeman >>> Bangtail Bikes

Follow Amber on Facebook >>> Amber Hoadley

WatchAmber's adventures >>> Amber's Adventures

Sound Engineer >>> Huskinopolis

Executive Producer >>> Pablo Quiroga

LISTEN TO THE EXCLUSIVE PODCAST WITH AMBER HOADLEY

WHAT IS YOUR ORIGIN STORY?

I was born and raised in Jacksonville Florida. I grew up with 2 younger sisters and a younger brother. My parents were awesome and we always had tons of sports available and pets running around the house! We did a big vacation somewhere each year, and my sisters and I rode horses for years. I went to the local college on a photography talent grant. When I was 27 I packed up everything I owned and moved to Bozeman Montana to experience some other areas of the country. I was a wedding photographer for a long time, but when I got out west I started working full time at a bike shop. One thing led to another, and here I am 3 years later; completely immersed in the cycling community and loving it!

DESCRIBE YOUR PERFECT ADVENTURE?

My perfect adventure would be a weekend campout where a few friends and I would bike to the campsite with cameras, snacks, and of course coffee. Ride all day but not be in a hurry. Stop frequently for photos. Set up camp and have a fire and good food. Crash in the tent and sleep until sunrise... then repeat!

WHO INSPIRED YOU TO BE THE PERSON YOU ARE TODAY?

There were so many people that inspired me when I was growing up, its hard to choose just one. My grandparents and my parents have probably contributed the most though! I wouldn't be who I am today without all of their love and support!

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE 15 YEAR OLD YOU?

Don't try to be like anyone else! Just be yourself and embrace it with confidence! Also overalls are going to be back in style one day so just keep wearing them

DESCRIBE A EUPHORIC MOMENT FOR YOU?

Swimming in Lake Mary at Glacier National Park after finishing a long hot bike ride - and staring at the most beautiful and extreme mountains covered in snow and then taking a nap in the sun. So good. So unbelievably amazing

HOW DO YOU WANT TO IMPACT THE WORLD YOU LIVE IN?

I want to eliminate the feelings of fear and intimidation that can occur when women walk into bike shops. I want to help give confidence to riders so they will commute more, ride longer, and bike further. I want to see more women out riding bikes! And I want to find a way to solve helmet hair (:

HOW IMPORTANT IS MINDFULNESS TO REACHING PEAK PERFORMANCE?

So important! Your mind controls your actions: If you aren't in the proper mindset, it could be the difference between giving up on your dreams or achieving them.

HOW IMPORTANT IS BREATH TO REACHING PEAK PERFORMANCE?

It is pretty important in my opinion. Especially when you are racing, or riding at a higher elevation, or extreme heat/ cold conditions. I think it's easy to get caught up in technology & numbers when you actually have to pay attention to your mind and body first

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE FEELING STRESSED OUT?

Go outside! Biking helps, but sometimes a quick 30 minute trail run with no phone / electronics will do the trick !

WHAT ARE YOUR STRONGEST CHARACTER TRAITS AND HOW DO THEY IMPACT YOUR PRODUCTIVITY AND/OR PERFORMANCE?

I am very organized and pretty big on goal setting & making lists. If I set a goal to do something, I do everything I can to make it happen ! I enjoy being productive and I feel that contributes to the success Ive had in training & racing, etc

WHAT DO YOU DO TO GET INTO THE ZONE?

Listen to my favorite music while making french press coffee! I have a few playlists that help me get into the zone. A good breakfast (usually avocado toast, or pb toast) and if I don't have time for makeup I will at least make time for a bit of mascara! Then I am ready for ANYTHING!

WHAT ARE YOUR WEAKEST CHARACTER TRAITS AND WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO TURN THEM INTO STRENGTHS?

Being the super-organized bossy older sister that I am - probably my weakest trait is that I try to do everything perfect! Being a perfectionist can be great but can also be frustrating. I hate it when I don't meet a goal, or if something doesn't go as planned or meet my expectations. Learning to let go and just let things happen sometimes. Its harder than it looks!