The Edge, the Motorcycle and the Road Back
Thu Feb 05 2026
There’s something about being on a motorcycle that just feels right — in ways that are hard to explain, but easy to recognize. Not long ago on the show, cognitive scientist Mark Changizi, author of Motorcycle Mind, talked about how riding a motorcycle is unlike anything else we do, because the physics involved mean the bike responds directly to your body — your balance, your inputs, your movement — reacting instantly, almost like a hybrid of human and machine moving as one. That connection sharpens focus and pulls you fully into the moment, and according to Changizi, it can change how our brains process space, motion, and risk. Those changes don’t necessarily stop when the bike is shut off, and for some people, riding becomes a place to return to — a way forward when other things aren’t working, a focus when life is closing in — and that idea sits at the center of today’s episode, as Rusty David shares his story.
This episode contains a brief reference to suicide. Listener discretion is advised.
🔗 Show Notes & Links: Find photos, links, and resources related to this episode on our website at Adventure Rider Radio.
🎧 Subscribe & Never Miss an Episode: We release new episodes of ARR every week on Thursday and of RAW on the 21st of every month—full of inspiring stories, expert advice, and insight from the world of adventure motorcycling. Hit subscribe so you never miss out!
💡 Got an Idea? Have a guest suggestion or topic you’d love us to cover? We’d love to hear from you! Drop us an email through our website.
⭐️ Leave a Review: Enjoying the show? A 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app goes a long way in helping others discover the show.
📱 Follow Us: Join our growing community on Facebook and Instagram. Let’s stay connected!
🙌 Support the Show: Love what we do? Help keep the adventure alive by supporting us. Your contribution allows us to keep bringing you great content week after week.
📤 Share the Show: Know someone who would enjoy this episode? Share it with them! Word of mouth helps us grow and reach more riders around the world.
📬 Join Our Newsletter: Be the first to hear about new episodes, bonus content, and more! Sign up for our newsletter at Adventure Rider Radio.
🙏 Thanks for Listening! We truly appreciate you being part of our adventure community. Until next time—ride safe and keep exploring!
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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There’s something about being on a motorcycle that just feels right — in ways that are hard to explain, but easy to recognize. Not long ago on the show, cognitive scientist Mark Changizi, author of Motorcycle Mind, talked about how riding a motorcycle is unlike anything else we do, because the physics involved mean the bike responds directly to your body — your balance, your inputs, your movement — reacting instantly, almost like a hybrid of human and machine moving as one. That connection sharpens focus and pulls you fully into the moment, and according to Changizi, it can change how our brains process space, motion, and risk. Those changes don’t necessarily stop when the bike is shut off, and for some people, riding becomes a place to return to — a way forward when other things aren’t working, a focus when life is closing in — and that idea sits at the center of today’s episode, as Rusty David shares his story. This episode contains a brief reference to suicide. Listener discretion is advised. 🔗 Show Notes & Links: Find photos, links, and resources related to this episode on our website at Adventure Rider Radio. 🎧 Subscribe & Never Miss an Episode: We release new episodes of ARR every week on Thursday and of RAW on the 21st of every month—full of inspiring stories, expert advice, and insight from the world of adventure motorcycling. Hit subscribe so you never miss out! 💡 Got an Idea? Have a guest suggestion or topic you’d love us to cover? We’d love to hear from you! Drop us an email through our website. ⭐️ Leave a Review: Enjoying the show? A 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app goes a long way in helping others discover the show. 📱 Follow Us: Join our growing community on Facebook and Instagram. Let’s stay connected! 🙌 Support the Show: Love what we do? Help keep the adventure alive by supporting us. Your contribution allows us to keep bringing you great content week after week. 📤 Share the Show: Know someone who would enjoy this episode? Share it with them! Word of mouth helps us grow and reach more riders around the world. 📬 Join Our Newsletter: Be the first to hear about new episodes, bonus content, and more! Sign up for our newsletter at Adventure Rider Radio. 🙏 Thanks for Listening! We truly appreciate you being part of our adventure community. Until next time—ride safe and keep exploring! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★