BMX is cool because of how many different personalities there are in it. Sean is one of those guys who you really can’t judge just by looking at him. He recently won video part of the year at N.O.R.A Cup and always seems to have something badass in the works. I am willing to bet a few things in this interview will blow your mind, I know I was caught off guard by a few things. Enjoy, and leave some comments!

Name:
Sean Burns

Location:
Seattle WA

Sponsors:
Metal Bikes, Kill City Jeans, Éclat components, bone deth, dick mauls bike shop

Years riding:
13

What was it that originally got you into BMX?
I skated at first… and could not Ollie for the life of it, and then rode my brothers BMX bike and could instantly bunnyhop. I took it from there..

I cannot imagine that you would, but did you ever imagine BMX turning into what it has for you? The sponsors, N.O.R.A cups, and everything?
Not at all… especially for the era that I grew up… I started riding around 1994 and 95. My first video was props issue number 9, followed by 1201, both of them were kind of the same summer and footage… there were no N.O.R.A cups back then… and dirt jumpers I looked up to didn’t have sponsors yet, Kris Bennett and all the push locals. it all just was fun and looked fun as fuuuck.

How are things going with Metal these days? Any changes to the frame, or other signature parts, web videos, or video parts, trips, or anything cool going on with them?
WEB VIDEOS, NO. As much as kids and people like to see footage every day on the internet, that is not what Metal is about. We stand strong for QUALITY NOT QUANITY in our showcase of riders. Metal for 2009 yess is going to be very different. We have switched manufacturing companies, there are going to be some new team riders in the near future, we have a completely new line of product to be unleashed, and possible plans for starting a new video this upcoming summer. Chris Wilson has a new frame in the works titled the “Moon Unit” which has a lower top tube than the rest of the metal frames. It is something more for riders that adjust to Wilson’s style. My frame will stay the same, a few minor adjustments, and shorter drop out. bla bla etc.

You joined the Eclat team not too long ago, how are things going with them? Do you have anything in the works with them at the time?
I could not be happier, I am so stoked to be apart of this and it is going completely pureee taste. I would usually go through a pair of cranks between 2 hours or 2 months and these éclat cranks have stood up since July. That is almost 5 months, and still purring beautifully. As far as things in the works, There is not too much yet, a signature shirt that should be out soon. I believe anything parts related will come further down the line.

What about the rest of your sponsors? Do you have anything big going on with them?
There are some possible overseas trips with Éclat. I have never left North America so I am really into that…

After winning video part of the year this year, do you have any intensions on trying to do it again next year? You seemed surprised that you won it; did you honestly not expect it even though everyone was yelling your name?
Intensions! hahaha. I do not ever intend on winning anything. That’s actually the only thing I’ve ever won in my life. I just ride what I think is fun, and film what I think I would want to see in a video. Yeah I was surprised; because in my mind someone like Dakota Roche could probably do everything, I do in that video. I voted his part, it blew me away.. Tech and gnar and gnarly tech usually you only get one or the other.

It seems like you have to be a pretty badass dude to be on Metal these days, do you have much say on whose on the team?
Yes, I pretty much play a slight team manager role at Metal, but usually if were going to put a new guy on the team, first run it by Jimmy, and the rest of the guys.. Were really picky and try not to add a million kids at once and throw them on a flow team, haha I mean we can’t afford too. But yeah we try to stick to the style of speed and having no disregard for your body hahah.

You have been doing some traveling to film and do other trips lately, where are some places you have traveled?
It has just been the States, nowhere fancy, Vegas, Tulsa Oklahoma, DC, and Baltimore. haha I never go anywhere too fresh.

Where are some places you would really like to go someday?
Anywhere in Scandinavia like Finland, Norway, etc… Germany,
Greece, Africa… England, too many to keep naming…

When will the next Bonedeth contest take place? Is there anything planned so far you can tell us about?
There are no plans of when, where though most likely in the North West. We have just been too busy doing filming for the upcoming bone deth video ‘Surfin for the Ugly Broads’ which is looking to be out late spring/early summer.

Who are some of the guys you have been riding with these days? Any up and comers you think people should be watching out for?
On a regular basis I ride with Ferbert, ox, Chris Crawford, Albie Bennett
I am not really a fan of the term up and coming, and preaching new riders. I have been pretty stoked on Chris Crawford, I do not think anyone has ever seen him ride, just simple fast stuff.

If you could change anything about BMX, what would you change?
The negativity. I might come across as negative at some points. Mostly towards the plastic parts and slow riding, but I just mean it that I do not like it for me. There is a place for everything; if everyone rode the style I like, shit would be boring. I like that there is virtually all different styles, and it is all respectable. However, when everyone hates on each other it gets kind of retarded.

What do you think you would be up to if you never got into BMX?
I always imagined myself doing something involving music, or even acting, or writing weird shit. Probably writing.

It seems like there are always some awesome photos of you and hot chicks floating around, what is the Sean Burns key to success with women?
Key to success? hahahah. Being a weirdo helps. There is a handful of women that love creeps, but not in the manner of child molesting creeps. Spending a lot of time around girls and knowing that there are some FREAKS out there. Your regular school girl looking lady might not be the innocent victim.. She might actually be a model for a bound and gagged website with here titties tied up and they love it!

What are you usually up to when your not riding or anything?
Ahh err when I am not riding.. Yeah I am usually getting into weird situations. There is no telling how a day goes. For some reason I cannot walk out the door for 5 minutes with out weird shit happening. My first day I moved to Seattle, I go out riding for 10 minutes and spot a half woman, half man looking fish thing, with a toilet paper made dress masturbating, while eating fish and singing “another one bites the dust”

If you could see any band live right now, who would you pick and why?
Dead Boys, with Stiv Bators being dead fuck… I would love to see them shits

What kind of movies are you into?
I am not really a movie fan, porn is good

Did you ever go to college or work at all before all the sponsors started taking care of you?
I still work. I do not make a living off riding bikes, maybe 400 dollars a month. I have to struggle to get by especially due to trips.
I go off an on with jobs, I was working at salvation army for a bit, now that I have moved it looks like I am going to be working at a tanning salon.
I always try to get a job that has benefits; Salvation Army provided free clothes and old ladies, tanning salons… Toxic tangerine boobies.

Have you ever been in a fight or arrested?
I got wacked in the face by a captain Ron look a like and a knife fight with a gay rapist in Las Vegas… All I can think of really.

There was a rumor floating around that you were straight edge? Do you know why people were saying that?
I have not heard this rumor hahaha. I hate the term straight edge. I would love to be straight, no smoking no drinking nothing, and being totally healthy. I go through phases with it. I actually hate alcohol. I am not a fan of being drunk and getting messy. The back of my mind despises it now days. People always get the idea that I do a lot of drugs and its def the complete opposite.

What makes for an awesome night for you?
Go out and ride bikes, get some clips, followed by some Brewster babes whaaat!!

If you could have any super power, what would you choose and why?
Mind control baby!

Who or what are some of the biggest influences on your life?
Jimmy Levan, Kris Bennett, PUSH and POSH, scum videos, Anthem, 1977, zero skate videos, WElCOME TO HELL, Taj, Van Homan, the little devil videos, my friends growing up, ox and Ferbert,
Ryan Worcester’s fast plants, Stiv Bators and the dead boys, Vic Murphy’s tables, Stickers’ tables, Jim Morrison, and rock n roll n general.

If you could spend the day with anybody, alive, dead, or fictitious, who would you pick and why?
Bill and Gary Jones, the legend and wildcard, 2 friends of mine who were murdered a year n half ago… to be able an get some words out of them once again would be top notch. They were the two most influential people I knew as far as personality. Most of the weirdo tongue you hear from me came from them two.

Do you spend much time on the computer? Any favorite sites?
I spend time answering emails, MySpace messages, Metal emails, nothing too weird. My ex gf looks at porn a lot so I get into it a lil bit.
Burningangel.com I check here and there

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
Solidify metal bikes, bone deth video, metal video. Do some wild ass bone deth ninja course style events. fuck hell I don’t know, just keep riding and filming video parts as much as possible until my body cant take it anymore.

Do you have any crazy stories involving hookers, midgets, homeless people, or pissed off pedestrians?
I made out with a midget in Vegas… Rubbed her tummy and patted her forehead… and for homeless people and pissed off pedestrians, you’ll just have to buy the bone deth video to witness some of the madness.

When you meet somebody new, how do you explain to them what you do for a living?
How do I explain? … I work a cash register. It is pretty simple

What is the worst thing and best thing you have ever spent your money on?
The worst… a rapping Santa Claus toy at 7-11. It was only cool for a minute. And the best… lap dance in Canada that led to sex. $12 dollars whaaat!

What kind of advice do you have for the people out there?
Jumping gaps is not something just anybody can do. It takes time and effort to learn how to tuck and land correctly. IT IS NOT HUCKING unless it looks sketch!

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
Thanks diaper dad, your dick gets shitty eh?

Anything else you would like to say?
Bite the bitch

Some of the weirdest interviews for me to do are the ones people already know about. Obviously, you know who Ryan Nyquist is… Infact there is a good chance you rode one of his complete bikes when you first started. Maybe you still are riding his signature stuff. I litterally could have asked about 200 questions just because theres so much to talk about. Ryan sums up what’s going on with him these days, moving to cali, having a kid, and all that good stuff. Enjoy and leave Ryan a little love!

Name:
Ryan Nyquist

Location:
San Jose, CA

Sponsors:
Haro Bikes, Thor, Rockstar Energy Drinks, Schick Quatro Titanium, Ogio, Bell, SST, The Jiffy Market of Los Gatos

Years riding:
18 Years

You have been a pro for a long time now, do you even remember when and the reason why you started riding BMX in the first place?
Well I don’t think it was for the chicks. Hahahahaha! I started riding because I liked the freedom it gave me. Even before tricks and riding dirt or ramps came about for me, I enjoyed being able to ride around town with my friends and just be on my own. Exploring, feeling independent, and having fun.

It seems like these days pros come and go pretty fast. What do you think the difference from being pro now is from when you first got picked up?
I’m not too sure. I have a feeling that it was probably the same as it was back in the day, just on a smaller scale. Back then there were probably 5-10 riders that were the main staples of Freestyle. Guys that you knew were going to produce some amazing riding. And I’m sure there were guys that came and went as well. I think that today, the sport is bigger, more popular, and more accessible for kids to get into. So naturally there are going to be a higher number of riders producing amazing riding, but also a large number of guys who come and go. That’s a pretty scientific answer. Hahahaha!

Do you ever feel like it is hard to keep up with the kids these days? Or is it more or less, you just do your own thing and don’t really care if you can triple whip or not?
I’ve always felt like my riding was a little bit different than a lot of people, especially today with all the whips getting thrown. I don’t think it’s about keeping up with everyone else. I think it’s about doing what you think is right for you. I think I just did what I thought was fun, and let that guide me. I like doing things that nobody else does. I think that, more than anything else, helps you stand out in a crowd, and always keeps them guessing.

You did pretty well contest wise this year if I remember right. How do you feel about the Dew Tour and X-games these days?
Well the Dew Tour is great. I feel like they do a great job of promoting the event and getting people to come and watch us ride when the event is in their town. The X Games is kind of slipping in my opinion. I feel like with every year that passes, we become more and more like a side show. My prediction is that in five years there won’t be anything in the X Games besides big air. Everything else will motorsports. That’s fine with me though… one less trip to LA. Hahahaha!!!

It seems like your set up hasn’t changed up too much over the years. Have you ever tried the brakeless thing, and how do you feel about that trend?
Yeah I think the biggest thing that has changed with my bike has been the switching from 4 piece to 2 piece. It’s funny how things come back in style though. I saw an ad for Fit 4 piece bars the other day. If I could have held out for a few more years I would be waaaaaaaaaay cooler than I am right now. Hahahaha!! I rode brakeless for many years in my beginning years. Mainly because I didn’t have money to buy new rims, so I constantly had hand me down parts that were bent or on their last leg. My wheels were always so bent that I couldn’t have brakes on my bike without them rubbing, so I just took the brakes off. I like the way a bike looks brakeless. It’s very clean looking and simple. I think I could maybe go without my rear brakes, but getting rid of my front brakes would be really difficult for me now. I love them too much.

You have had some pretty crazy sponsors over the years like Slim Jim and Butterfingers, what do you feel is the weirdest sponsor you ever had?
Never had Slim Jim as a sponsor… that was Mirra. Guilt by association I guess. But I did have Butterfinger. That was good around Halloween though. Always gave out the King Size bars to all the kids in the neighborhood. One of the craziest ones that almost happened but never really panned out was a silver jewelry sponsorship where they were going to have a signature line of silver jewelry designed by me. Kinda wild! I currently ride for Schick Quatro Titanium Trimmer. I never would have thought I would be riding for a razor company, but it’s awesome having all the new razors you want. Those are pretty expensive in stores.

This might sound weird, but do you have any plans on slowing down and focusing on getting that family started or is riding still the main focus?
Well My wife and I are about to have our first child, and it’s definitely crazy to think I’m going to be a dad. It’s one of those moments in life that seems so surreal when it’s about to be a reality. As far as slowing down, I definitely am going to slow my traveling down a little bit just so I can be home with my family more. I used to pack my summer schedule full of trips, but I don’t want to be the traveling dad that just gets to see his son and wife a few days a month. I’ve kind of narrowed things down a lot this past year, and am just doing the bare necessities as far as contests and trips.

You recently moved back to California. Where have you been riding lately? Is there any plans of reviving Sheep Hills?
Yeah I’m living up in Northern Cali, San Jose to be specific. It’s the same area that I grew up riding in, so there is still a lot of parks around and some trails as well. I’ve been mainly riding a lot of cement parks. That’s all there really is to ride around here. Some are great but there are a lot of not so great parks around. I’m trying to get some ramps built for the winter so I can still progress my riding, but right now I’m carving the cement trannies.

Out of all the places you have had the chance to travel to, where are some of your favorite places?
I’d have to saw Australia, New Zealand, and Africa would have to be my top picks. I have a lot of friends that are from Australia, so it makes it really enjoyable and fun to spend time there. New Zealand is pretty much a paradise to me. Especially the South Island. No bikes needed. And I went to Africa twice last year, once to South Africa and once to Egypt. Both with out the bike, and both were amazing trips. I feel so fortunate to have been able to travel all over the world.

Where are some places you have never been before?
China, Italy, Greece, Nova Scotia… there is a lot I haven’t seen in this world. I wouldn’t mind going to Antarctica just to say I’ve been. I think italy and Greece would be my top picks for a trip though.

Do you have any big trips planned any time soon?
Nothing whatsoever. Hahahahaha! This winter I’m spending all my time at home, getting to know my new son Tristan.

You have had some really good video parts over the years, which one was your favorite, and are you working on anything new?
Thanks a lot. Video parts are fun to put together. I don’t do it very often, but when I do I really enjoy the whole process. Everything from making lists of things that I want to accomplish, to listening to music to find the perfect song, to helping with the editing process. I’m most proud of my part in End Search. Josh Harrington asked me to be apart of the project and I couldn’t resist. That was the second time he asked me to be a part of a video project, the first being in Against The Grain. He was really great about letting me take control of my part and letting me put my own little touches into my section to really make it my own. I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. I was nominated for Video Part of the Year at NORA Cup for it too. That was amazing for me because it was something that I never thought would happen in a million years.

I know your not exactly a Josh Harrington when it comes to height, do you feel like not being super tall makes things easier for you to do?
I think there are pluses and minuses to being both tall and short. I always wished that I had a couple more inches of height, but I think that when your limbs are longer it’s sometimes easier to get things tweaked or broken. But when your short you have a hard time getting things off the top shelf. I always have to have a step stool in the house. Hahaha!

What is the biggest thing you have learned in life because of BMX?
I think the biggest thing I’ve learned is just how to function in life. You can’t learn that in school. I’ve also gained a better sense of how people are and can sort through the bullshit a lot easier. That’s just something I’ve learned while dealing with people in the business for the past 12 years. There’s a lot of bullshit out there.

If you could change anything about BMX, what would you change and why?
I hate this question. I wouldn’t change a thing. The shit talking that goes on is good and bad. Who doesn’t like to talk shit? Or at least read about it. But sometimes it’s taken too far. BMX is what you make of it and what you surround yourself with. So if you don’t like what BMX is to you, surround yourself with the right people and just do what you want.

What do you think you would be up to if you never got into BMX?
I started to go to college for Mechanical Engineering in 1997/1998 but stopped to ride and compete. Maybe I would have continued on that path… who knows. I love being active. I used to play a lot of soccer, so maybe I would have tried to pursue that. I’ve been involved in Freestyle for so long that it’s hard to picture myself not riding. I think I would be a completely different person without the knowledge and life lessons that I’ve gained from riding and traveling.

What got you to move back to California anyways?
Well, my Mom’s health isn’t so great and I just wanted to be closer to my family. I spent 9 years living in Greenville and only seeing my parents and older brother like 4 times a year. I wanted more than that.

You were going to leave The Unit there for everyone to ride and enjoy, do you still pay the bills or is it up to the locals now?
Yeah I still take care of the bills. We have talked about them covering the utilities, but I haven’t really pressed the issue. When I decided to move back to Nor Cal, what to do with the Unit was probably the hardest thing for me to try and decide. The options in my head were to sell it and tear down the ramps, lock it up and only open it up when I was visiting, or keep it up and running and just have my close friends take care of it like it was their own. I felt like the place was too new to tear down, so that option was out the door. Plus I think it would kill me to have to dismantle that place. We put so much hard work into finishing it, that I would probably get really depressed. And the whole locking it up option was stupid. What’s the use of having a place like that and only letting people in when I was around. I’m not that selfish. It just seemed like the right thing to do was to keep it open. And so far it’s been working great. I just miss the place a lot though. Wish I could have taken it with me.

Mirra is leaving Greenville also, do you feel like that will change what GV is or do you think it will be the same pro destination?
I think he was talking about moving to NY permanently but I believe he changed his mind and is back in Greenville again. I can honestly say that the scene in Greenville is much stronger than just Dave and I. If we both left, things would continue on just fine. There are too many riders and still plenty of things to ride for things to change that much.

What are some things you are good at that people really don’t know about?
Puzzles. Or at least I think I’m good at them. I guess I should just say that I enjoy them. I can cook alright. I make a mean spaghetti sauce. ANd a excellent chicken pot pie.

How do you feel about Big Daddy always calling you out and calling you “Nyquinch”?
I think it’s funny. It’s not he’s saying anything that people don’t already know. He’s hilarious. I always look forward to the next video to drop. I wouldn’t mind filming a video of my own though, and just flip the whole thing on him. I got some great ideas…

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next 5 years?
First and foremost is to be a great dad. We are 6 day out of having our first kid and my wife and I are super excited. Beyond that, I’d like to keep progressing my riding, maybe travel a little bit more. I’ve been really into fixing up our home, and I wouldn’t mind learning more things like that. I guess those are some short term and long term goals.

First song to come to mind?
Pink’s “So What”. My wife has been rocking that song nonstop. and it’s stuck in my head.

First movie to come to mind?
Role Models. That shit is hilarious!!!!! I definitely recommend seeing it at least twice. Soooooo gooooooooooooood!!!!

What’s your dream car? And whatever happened to that car you had with the grill from when you did cribs?
The car that used to have the Stove and all the kitchen stuff in the trunk was a 1965 Lincoln Continental with Suicide doors. That was a fun little project, and I feel like it helped make that episode of Cribs pretty funny. The car was awesome but it was a lot of work to get it running sweet, so I sold it. My dream car used to be the Plymoth Prowler. I always liked the way that car looked. I don’t really have an exotic dream car. I’d love to have a new Tacoma Quad Cab though. Those are tight!

If you could re-live any day in your life, what would you pick and why?
I am the way I am because of the way I’ve lived my life. I wouldn’t change a thing.

Do you spend much time on the computer? Any favorite websites? Don’t you have your own website?
I have my own website… Ryannyquist.com. I spend a lot of time on Vitalbmx.com and I have a blog on BMXOnline.com. TheComeUpBMX.net is good. Pandora.com is amazing.

Have you ever been in a fight? If yes, did you win?
I was kind of in a fight in 7th grade but not really. I took a swing at a guy, missed, then just ran away. Hahahahaha. I almost fought Keith Terra back in the day. It was while all that shit talking and him writing letters into RideBMX was going on. John Paul Rodgers was going to set up a legit boxing match between us at the Christmas Classic Race/ Dirt comp in 1998. I’m not much of a fighter. I think it’s pretty stupid to be honest. Nobody wins in a fight.

Have you ever been arrested? If yes, why? If no, why not?
Never been arrested, but got chased down the street in Germany by undercover cops, because Nick Cooper kicked some guy in the face. That guy called the cops and they started looking for us. We were walking back to the hotel when a car full of 4 big german guys skidded to a stop right next to us, and all the guys got out of the car and started chasing us. I thought they were some buddies of the guy that got kicked, and that we were gonna get our asses beat. Crazy times.

This interview could go on for days, so lets end it with what is the best advice you can give to a kid just getting into BMX?
Do what you like to do, but be yourself. and wear your helmet and pads. Shit is way too crazy nowadays to not be safe.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
Thanks to my wife and my family. Thanks to my sponsors : Haro, Thor, Rockstar, Schick Quatro Titaium, Bell, Ogio, SST, CTI Kne Braces, The Jiffy Market of Los Gatos, Calabazas Cylery.

Anything else you would like to say?
Nope

Casey is a fairly well known street rider from the Midwest scene and Sputnic flow rider. This interview was really suppossed to happen months ago back when that A.J guy was helping out with the site. I guess it got lost in the process, so I shot him some fresh questions and waited for his new edit to drop. This is what came from it. Enjoy, and leave him a little love in the comments!

Name:
Casey D Strong

Location:
Currently Milwaukee WI

Sponsors:
Sputnic

Years riding:
I think about 8 years now?

What was it that got you into BMX in the first place?
My oldest brother Travis was all about bikes, and he rode BMX along with mountain, road, etc. He pretty much was my main influence he built my first ramp out of a milk crate and plywood, and took me to my first skate park.

How are things going with Sputnic these days? What do you got going on with them, any trips or anything like that going on?
Things with Sputnic are great, a lot of things are going on with the company mainly with Johnny leaving. With Johnny leaving Ronnie B has been in a way running it all, and taking ideas from everybody on the team as to what should be the future for Sputnic. As trips, we do plan on have a couple but that most likely wont be until spring or summer. Me and Mike Hinkens are going to Florida over winter break though so i guess that could count.

Being a Midwest rider, you are no stranger to the cold and snow that will be here all to soon. What are your plans to make it through the winter?
Winter is the worst thing ever. I hate the bitter cold, and even more so i hate the snow. I basically shuts down the street spots and forces you into the park. Although i am luck enough to have 4seasons so close i would much rather ride outside. My plans to attempt to survive the winter are spending a few weeks in Florida riding bikes.

You are living in one of the best scenes in the country with riders like Jeff K, Lil Jon, Mike Hinkens and so many more. Do you ever feel like that plays on your level of progression?
Mike, Jeff, and Jon are all amazing people and bike riders. I have been lucky enough to grow up riding with these guys, mainly Mike and that’s probably why i like street so much. But being able to ride with guys on their level on a daily basis definitely plays a role on progression because of it motivates me to try and learn new things that these guys make look easy.

Outside of those bigger named guys, who are you usually out riding with?
Grant C, Jeff Dowhen, and Nate W. All these dudes kill it. There are a whole bunch of other people that i ride with but these are probably the main three dudes besides Mike that i ride with.

You have had the chance to travel a bit these days, where are some of your favorite places you have had the chance to ride?
I was really stoked on Florida in winter. Good weather, good dudes, good spots. Michigan was pretty fun. I cant even remember where else i have been.

Do you have any trips in the works or places you would like to go sometime?
Sputnic has a few plans for trips coming next summer if everything works out. I would like to go somewhere out of this country, Barcelona looks amazing.

I would imagine you are still brakeless, so do you plan on ever running brakes again?
Still brakeless, will always be too. My first bike was the only bike that had brakes, a DK fury. The brakes lasted a good 3 weeks before the cable broke and smashed the lever off with a hammer.

Your new Sputnic edit just dropped, are you filming for anything else from video parts to web videos?
Not really filming for anything in specific at the time.

What is something about BMX that frustrates you the most?
How serious it has become. I would also say the X GAYmes.

If you were going on a road trip with 5 people, who would you want to be on the trip and where would you want to go?
Mike Hinkens, Johnny Devlin, Grant C, Nate W, and Jamie Bestwick. I think i would probably pick Athens Georgia, that place seems pretty crazy.

Where would you like to see BMX go in the next few years?
TO THE MOON!

What do you think you would be up to if you never got into BMX?
Pretty sure I would be a professional parachuter.

Outside of riding what are you usually up to?
I guess outside of BMX, i am either working, or riding some other bike. I race road bikes in the summer, and usually commute to work on a bike. Also ride cyclocross.

Were you aware there is another Casey Strong who can lift a shit load of weight?
No i wasn’t, but i did know there was a baseball player with the same name.

Do you work or go to school at all?
I work, kinda gave up on school for the time being.

What is the craziest thing you have experienced in your life?
Having a bike change the way i live.

If you could be sponsored by any thing that does or does not have any involvement in BMX, who would you pick and why?
The Green Bay Packers, because football is sweet! Probably Levis though, because of their amazing health insurance for the riders.

How’s your criminal record looking? Any good stories?
My record is pretty clean, but i do have a warrant for my arrest for a unpaid ticket in Philly. The ticket was for riding my bike on the sidewalk.
If you couldn’t live where you live now, and couldn’t live in the Midwest at all. Where would you move and why?
I think Portland Oregon, the place seems really awesome. I would have said Florida, but i would die in the heat.

What kind of music are you into these days?
I have been really into Modest Mouse lately. I jam a lot of old shit too, like CCR, The Doobie Brothers, Kansas, Johnny Cash. List goes on.

Have you seen any good movies lately?
The Dark Knight, so good.

What are some of your favorite websites?
Not going to hide it
Myspace
sputnic-bmx.com
HowToAvoidTheBummerLife.com
YouTube

If you could live like anyone else in this world, who would you pick and why?
Brett Favre, he is a legend.

What would you do if you found a sack of money that you know is not legit?
I would try to do something legit with it like give it to charity, probably pocket some of it though.

What is the worst/dumbest/funniest thing you have ever spent your money on?
Ha, i bought a Mens work out magazine, box of Trojan Magnum XL condoms, along with the toilet paper that Matt Coplan asked me to pick up. That or the giant dildo that me and my roommates bought, no homo.

How do you feel about Obama being elected as president?
I think its pretty cool, i voted for him. Hopefully things will start to get better in the country and i dont have to kick myself in the ass.

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
Get my knee fixed, fly on a airplane, find a way to not have to work, end my dependence on a automobile completely and do a BMX trip across the county on a bike.

If you could commit any crime and get away with it, what would you do and why?
Double homicide, because two is better than one. haha.

What is the most embarrassing thing you have done while intoxicated?
Since i don’t drink, i don’t have a good story. I have done some pretty dumb shit while sober though.

If you could change anything about the world, what would you change and why?
I would make Rollerblades illegal.

What is some of the best advice you could give somebody?
I guess do what you think is right, fuck the trends.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
Thanks to Mike Hinkens for putting up with my shit and helping me get to where i am at, Johnny Devlin for being a great friend and helping me get to where i am, Ronnie Bonner at Sputnic for giving me a chance, Ralph and Omar at Animal for all the help, Jeff K for making me jump on shit, Jeff G and 4seasons skate park, Grant C for being a good friend and filming, Kyle Kompas for having fun on his bike helping me to do the same, my mom for being my first sponsor, Jake G for the photos, everybody from Milwaukee who i ride with, Tippy, Jason Minor, Ernie, and Kurt for doing this interview.

Anything else you would like to say?
Yeah thanks if you actually took the time to read this.

It was pretty funny how I first really got to know Francis. We had talked a few times during Interbike, and then I bumped into him at the Mosh party at the Hard Rock. I was with this girl I met on the plane and she was looking to get her drunkness on. It just so happened that we were all not looking to blow our money at the bar and there was a bottle hidden behind a bush in the parking lot. I wonder who put that there? Minutes later we are hanging out in the parking lot and we started talking about doing an interview. This is what comes from meeting people in awesome situations. Enjoy.

Name:
Francis

What was it that originally got you into BMX?
When I was 11, I basically exchanged a video game for a Huffy from Target. I had never owned a bike before and didn’t even know how to ride one so I figured I’d give it a shot. By sunset that day, I was literally addicted to how it felt to pedal. About a year or two later, I discovered BMX. It came in the form of the 1996 X-Games and watching Mat Hoffman blast the vert ramp with a broken foot. In between his runs, they’d show clips of his foot, all swollen and blue. He always had a smile though and that’s what sold me on it.

You are the man behind the new Odyssey website. How long have you been working for Odyssey and what is your job title?
Yes, I am. I’ve officially been at the office since August. My professional job title is “Website Guy.” Please send all death threats regarding flash websites to: heywebsiteguywhydoyouhavesuchalongemailaddress@odysseybmx.com.

Back to riding, living in California I imagine you don’t have much trouble finding something good to ride. Where are some of your more common stops when it comes to riding? Do you have some usuals you like to ride with?
Downtown Long Beach is a few blocks away from me, so I cruise around there a lot. Fudger and Jeff Z live in town so I try to tag along with them as much as possible. They’re fun to ride with and know where all the good spots are. Sometimes we head out to the Santa Monica park and Bauer’s usually over there. That always ends up being a fun session. If I’m riding by myself, which happens often, I usually just head out the door and start pedaling fast at a crack on the side walk or a curb cut. Then I just ride around aimlessly.

I know you made it out to Interbike recently. Do you have any other trips you are looking forward to?
Not really. I’m going home for Christmas so I guess I have some drunken kareoke to look forward to.

Where are some places you would really like to experience?
Outerspace. Deep sea. Some tiny, deserted tropical island that maybe has a coconut tree to take a nap under. The roof of the world’s tallest building. Some crazy ancient structure that hasn’t been tapped by tourism. Canada.

If you could be capable of riding like anybody else, who would you pick and why?
Mat Hoffman.

Do you worry about kicking ass and trying to progress or are you just a chiller?
I like to progress but I try not to sweat it. Half the time I’m just trying not to regress. The other half is spent skidding, bunny hopping and/or doing half-assed table-tops.

Have you had the chance to beat yourself up much? Any injuries worth sharing?
I knocked some teeth out at the Ride 150th Issue party. I’m the guy smashing his face on the ground at the end of the video… That one gave me stars and tunnel vision. The funny thing about that crash though is I didn’t see it coming at all. I thought I was going to eat shit on the wall-ride right before.

Seeing as you work at Odyssey, if you could have any signature part what would you make with the help of Ben Ward?
180mm cranks, a coaster brake and a belt that doubles as a bike-lock. Ben teased me for wanting 180s though and I don’t think he’s too into my coaster brake idea either. I haven’t brought up the belt thing yet…

If you could change anything about BMX, what would you change and why?
There’s a lot of silly things going on in BMX, but on a personal level, I don’t see a need in changing any of it. BMX is a sacred entity and it’s at a place in my heart that nobody can ever touch. People can bitch and complain about things all they want but as long as I have a bike to ride, I couldn’t care less. Some other kid’s bike, attitude, pants or anonymous internet comments aren’t going to affect my hop.

What do you think you would be up to if you never picked up a bike?
Either a lawyer, a doctor or a magician. Probably all three.

Outside of work and BMX what are you usually up to?
I started getting into reading for recreation again. I used to try to avoid it at all costs ’cause it cramps my productivity. I don’t mind it too much now, it’s good for the soul. Other than that, if I’m feeling ambitious, I try to shoot photos. I’m a fan of arts and crafts type of stuff too.

When did you first really start getting into computer stuff?
Back in the days of D.O.S.

Did you ever go to college for web design or was it just self taught?
If I start typing on this subject, I won’t be able to stop. Lets just say I did both.

If you weren’t able to work at Odyssey, what do you think your dream job would be?
On my resume, under career objective, all it says is, “Become a financially secured hippie.” I’m not really sure what that entails but I’ll probably strive for that. A transient lifestyle seems interesting, too.

Have you ever been in a fight or arrested? Care to elaborate?
I’ve never been in a fight but I did get arrested once for resisting arrest… I’m still not sure how that was possible. It’s considered a felony and when I went to court to fight it, they brought up all of these other ridiculous charges on me. There was some weird loop-hole (or scam?) where if I were to forfeit my bond, it’d all go away and wont be on my record. I looked into it and figured it wasn’t worth my time or stress to try and dance with the legal system. I ended up just giving up the bond. In the end, I basically paid $300 to spend a night in jail after getting in an altercation with a drunk guy holding a shovel in a parking lot. In retrospect, it was all pretty funny. My friends thought it was a prank phone call when I called from jail.

A good night of partying consists of…
…wandering around in public with a few good friends and sipping out of inconspicuous beverage containers, wholesome in appearance but corrupted by bottom-shelf liquor. Night is ok, but I prefer it in broad daylight.

What is your best story you got involving hookers, midgets, alcohol, or crazy people?
This one time, I drank way too much alcohol and ended up making sweet, passionate love to a crazy, midget hooker in a bathroom at 7/11.

What are some things you would really like to experience in your life at some point?
A solo sky-dive jump. Live in a fancy hotel, Royal Tenenbaum style. Watch the speedometer needle squirm at it’s peak. Watch the world turn from the inside of some space ship. Get kicked out of a fancy hotel, Royal Tenenbaum style as well. A near death experience of some sort. Live without having to subscribe to the bureaucracy of society. Base jump. Kiss while falling. Watch a live taping of Conan O’Brien. Sex against a window of a very tall sky-scraper. Fly a large balloon (maybe multiple balloons?) like a kite. Sell a piece of art/shit for a relatively ridiculous amount of money. Live in the Philippines again.

What is the key to success with the ladies?
Don’t sweat it.

Being a web guy I am sure you have some cool websites you suggest people check out?
Google’s pretty good.

What kind of music are you into?
Shitty vocals, singing about the crazies in life, coupled with a soundtrack that’d make you feel at ease about driving a car off a cliff.

All time favorite movie?
I don’t have a favorite but there’s a handful I wouldn’t mind watching again: Fight Club. The Royal Tenenbaums. Amelie. Donnie Darko. The Princess Bride. Eternal Sunshine of a Spotless Mind. I’m sure there’s more but I always forget.

What are some things you would really like to accomplish in the next few years?
Build a machine that runs itself.

If you could live like anybody in this world, who would you pick and why?
I can’t really think of anybody in particular. I’m a fan of life experiences though so I’d probably want to just sample a ton of different lifestyles and mix up my favorites. I’d most likely throw my own ingredients into the recipe as well.

What kinds of advice do you have for people looking to get into graphic design and web design?
Get a computer with all of the software you need and then develop an addiction to coffee.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
My family for loving me unconditionally, my friends for being accepting of my social ineptness, my dog for being a mutt, Odyssey for providing me with a dream job, Kurt for this interview and ******* for making me happy.

Anything else you would like to say?
Yes.

When I first had seen some footage of Denny, I was laughing so hard. The guy knows how to have a good time and make people laugh. It took me a while to get ahold of him but I am glad I got the chance. This interview turned out awesome. Check it out and leave Denny a little love in the comments!

Name:
full name, Denny McLee Pascasio

Location:
Ridge NY, its on Long Island

Sponsors:
The Take, Long Island Bike Shop, Team Jeff Dupaul

Years riding:
around 8 or 9 I think?

What was it that first got you into BMX?
I live in the middle of nowhere, where deer over populate humans 20 to like 9 it seems. So there was nothing to really do but play on this ratty trampoline in this kids backyard. Once that shit the bed. I started riding my bike over these little dirt mounds in this field by my house. I pretty much set my mind off to this rules from those days on.

Did you ever expect for it to turn into what it has become today?
Phew, definitly not. I used to just be another little 14 year old gromet type kid, who just watched X-gaymes and rode a mongoose KO and a tailwhip was impossible. Now it’s just insane to see every kid with 15 year old fever & being able to hop truck down a 12 stair. Then the people spinning their bikes eight times under them, and how astonishing bikes alone progessed. I used to be stoked on 36tooth sprockets, now the things bikes are capable of and everything is mind blowing, it pretty much rules intensly.

How are things going with The Take? Any cool stuff involved with you going on there?
Oh man, I couldn’t be more stoked! The Take is bringing the fun and helping me out a ton. So I’m just trying to return the favor by bringing that fun out when I go out and pedal everytime. But, we have a whole bunch of stuff in the works that I couldn’t be more excited about. We are starting to do Monthly web edits soon, some kiddies have stuff to enjoy for sure. And with the help of Jeff those should go a total diffrent route then the usual haahaha.

What is the story behind Team Jeff Dupaul anyways?
It started out as a little joke Andre Postell made cause Jeff always seemed to come with the funds when the dude needed ciggs. Andre said its like your my sponsor now. When the time came for Notro Jam, Andre listed Team Jeff Dupaul as one of his sponsors and it kinda blew from there. Just bringing us Northeastern pedalers together. And also for the fact, Jeff just rules and has played a major roll on these parts I think, hahaha his house is pretty much a hotel. I’d like to think I have the super pro contract of the team, only for the fact that some how I end up and his house for weeks and his wallet turns into my ATM. I’m kinda makin this answer lengthy, but now we got some serious duties in the works. So I guess we are becoming like Give D! East, just TJD instead haha.

It seems like Jeff is always posting up videos. Do you have any new web videos, or video parts in the works?
Yeah, we are all currently filming for a TJD web video, that will premiere on Defgrip. No exact date yet, cause we are all pushin in duties and tryin to beat this shit before Frosty comes down to hang haha. In between that, we are putting out little web edits in the mean time to show our fun and big chillin. Aside from TJD videos, Mr.Dupaul has been helpin other dudes get there side projects on, it’s pretty sweet. Too much goin on for one clown to handle.

How do you feel about the scene where you are living? What is the crew like out there?
I really could bull about this question so much, but I’m not going to though. In my opinion trying to ride on my end of Long Island sucks so bad. I live in the most redneck of towns. I’m suprised I’m allowed to even live here haah, but anyways theres seriously absolutely nothing, but some handicap slopes, curbs, and some trails. I dont touch trails around here anymore though cause the locals are weird around me I guess. I can say there are a handful of kids that just shred this damn forsaken island, but we are all so spread out so it’s kinda hard to meet up. The crews are so mixed with so many diffrent types of riders and when we do meet up it’s a good time. LIB is doing a good thing too, keepin the kids pedaling on. I have so much to say for this question but, hahaha I don’t want to go nuts on it. Let me just say, that Long Island lacks, but we make the most of it.

If you could live anywhere else because of BMX, where would you go and why?
Even though the lack, I don’t think I’d move, I’d do more of do a reconstruction. I’d smash Boston, Long Island and CT together, bring on some Cali weather and make Long boscalnnecticon. Either that, or just live in Cali for the winters hahaa, thats way more simple.

Have you been doing some traveling lately?
Just around CT my second home, thats about it hahaa. Sometimes rarely, but sometimes like Boston and stuff.

What is the craziest thing you have experienced because of BMX?
Dude, the first splatter of what the f-ck?!! I think of everytime I get this question, is seeing that dude just get at the banks just gettin Gnarley Davidson’d. Just full blow smashed by a guy on a chopper bike, then his bike stolen I believe! I felt like I was in the matrix of oh my damn, cause there was just so many things wrong there. Oh and the best was the roadkill dude saying, Ugghhghhh dat mudda fuggaa, while laying flabbergasted and pretzel’d on the floor.

If you could remove anybody, any trick, anything really from BMX, what would you pick and why?
hmmm… Invert to fakie? Everything else is just awesome for a good laugh or a jaw drop. Oh Oh Oh and X gaymes superpark…what the hell was that?!

What are some things that make you want to go and ride?
Seriously, everything does pretty much. I’ll see some kids far into youtube videos of kids just feebling a ledge and not giving a crap, and just seeing my friends doin there thang. man hahaha I just love laughing and pedaling.

What is your dream set up or spot to ride?
A school with just crazy hips and banks and stuff, fun flowy stairs if thats possible. And just real easy fun chilling trails. It really depends on the day.

Is it all about the trick list or how much style you have?
I lean for style 87% of the time. I mean its rad to see dudes goin crazy and shower themselves in redbull to whip in and out of everything, but I’m all for it looking really original and stylish. I mean I’d def like watching someone do real simple stuff like take a hand and a foot off and make it look super good and clean with flow, then watch a dude that looks like someone kicked a 2×4 off a lip & its flipping and spinning like crazy. So style ftw!

How do you feel about contests? Do you ever hit any of those up or plan on any?
I like contest for the pure fact, they let you travel, have a good time and see all your buddies from all over and get to shred Contest as a whole, naah not really for me. I cringe out, forget what I wanted to do, lose myself and end up huckin somthing dumb for 48 seconds. Stuff like Baco I like cause its really laid back and all for a good time. Dewd tour I’d never touch, I don’t think. I wanted to hit Baco and Notro this year, but umm hahaa thats not happening.

If you could go on a road trip, who would you bring and where would you go right now?
As of right now, I’d be escape the frostbite tour, and I’d be all of my TJD buddies, Jeff, Garret Reeves, Chris Z, Mike Mastroni, Matty Long and the list goes on for all long as the fun does.

What is BMX all about in your eyes?
FUN. 100% and complete fun. Just being stoked, gettin a good laugh, a good story, doing what you want to do. Meeting good friends. It’s just too much good, and too much fun man.

What do you think you would be up to if you never got into BMX?
Well I did/do go to school for Visual Arts and cartooning, so I’d total be a Comicon/Anime freakazoid. Just playing xbox and watching porn 85% of the time. The other drawing dudes with cracked out eyes, puking, and stuff hahaa. Or wishing I was awesome at skating.

What are you up to when your not riding?
Usually, just hangin. On this little life sucker of a machine, just cruising the web or just hangin with some dame of some sort…and as all these webbies of me floating around show. Having fun at a party somewhere, not gettin too out of hand. I need a job asap hahahahahah.

Do you go to school or work at all?
Back to school in the spring and I’m trying to get a job at Target, as I said to Nick(SPAM) “If i get this Target job, it will kinda be like I’m on Hoffman FLOW!” haah

You got a fairly new video series going with Jeff Dupaul called “LOL Material”. What got all this started and when will the next episode be out?
Maybe I should let jeff answer this one, and I’ll put my input to it too hahaha go jeff. HA, “He went kinda nuts on it. The LOL series wasn’t an intentional thing, I just had lots of footage of humerous moments in Denny’s life on tape. I had left over party footage from when I had a little party at my house and between the music video and his take edit, I still had lots of other footage. So, I made a little montage. I also added in a falls montage since Denny falls a lot hahaha. The another day, we had a concert at Haven and Denny talked to all the girls as they walked by, so i turned my camera on and captured Denny being, well Denny. I think everyone who has ever meet Denny has liked him and probably found him to be hilarious, like I do. So I made these little edits for more our friends who know him and would understand his humor and laugh at it. Then one day on the come up, I saw kurt didn’t have much to post so I thought I would send in the videos, maybe other people would find them funny too. Basically, long story short, the LOL series is just me capturing denny being himself every day, and hoping everyone else gets a good laugh outta it just like all my friends and I do. Because lets face it, Bikes are only like 50% riding, the other half is having a good time with your friends and laughing and just making memories. So I thought I’d share them with you all.” Yep that was my dude, Jeff puttin it into college perspective for ya. Cause I have no input on them, I’m just being me thats all.

How do you feel about the Daddy Vision videos? Do you think they influenced you to start yours?
I lost count on Daddy Vision after D.Vision #1,39423. I think they are pretty rad, but I’m totally not aiming to be that. It just seems to be happening hahaha weird man.

Are you just naturally a funny dude or have you hit your head a few times?
I think haha I’m just not serious enough and dumb! I just like to see smiles and a good time for sure!

Has anyone ever told you that you remind them of Chris Tucker? Would you be pissed if I told you that I get that vibe?
Crap, I’m trying to think how many other people have said that, I wish my voice was as high pitched as that guy! I come close to it cause Jeff Dupaul is pretty much my Jackie Chan. I guess I can take that as a honor, guy has some steez!

What are some of the keys to an awesome party or night out?
Alright, this list is
-Enough of party influencial products to get you going but not retarded
– Some where with alot of people and open space if not go the total oppisite, tight space with alot of people.
– MUSIC, you need music no matter what
– have some GIRLS, DAMES, GALS, TRICKS, HOES, IDIOTS.
smash that all together in a blender, with sprinkle of love
and thats pretty much it. Automatic, no manual needed fun.
write that down Kurt hahahhaha!

What are some of the most important things in your life?
I’m real bad with priorites for sure, but definitly getting a education, staying in school, family and blah blah. All and all is remember to not stress, things can only be bad for so long and theres always something good around or some good you can make or learn from it. So don’t stress hard, Have a lot of fun, no matter what the situation.

What are some approaches you use when picking up girls? Any advice for the hopeless ones out there?
hahahaha! Don’t push yourself on them. Make em giggle and they might show you some jiggle. Make em laugh and you might get some ASS. I don’t know what I do to make em think I’m something special, cause I gots nothing. I had game, then my playstation 2 broke.

Have you ever been in a fight or arrested?
Never a fight in my life, I mean the closest thing to a fight, was me punching this kid on the bus in the eye by accident in 1st grade. I had one of those sweet gay 50cent rings on, so it did some serious damage. Arrested, no. I have had/have a ticket for $75 dollars for something real dumb (drinking in public even though it was closed beach & it was a half a beer or some crap)

What is the first song to come to mind?
Spams re-make to Loquat’s Swingset Chain or whatever. His was ” Theres a plaaaay ground that we used to play on, and Mike Mastroni films alllllll alone…” we all died including mike hahaa so freakin awesome. oh and Listen to J.Dilla instrumentals that guy was a genious!

If you won the lottery what would you blow the money on?
Phew, Umm I’d have to payback Jeff. Buy a random ass house somewhere over here, have some of my best people stay. Give my mama some money(I gotcho back Momz!), wait now see…what if it was only 30 bucks?

What is the most embarassing thing you have ever spent your money on?
hahahhha man, I can’t even rememeber. I haven’t had money since like January 20th of this year. I’m a bum!

What kind of a car are you driving around? What is your dream car?
You want to hear a sad secret, I don’t even have my license, my road test is the 5th of Novemeber. My dream car…a smart car with 4 people seating! Heck Yeah! Thats asking for a good time!

If you could hook up with any model or famous chick, who would you pick and why?
dude, you see that girl CASSIE?!
She can totally be my official girl! Or maybe Vanessa Hudgens, I’d totally make another kind of high school musical with that dame sheesh!

Do you have any good stories involving hookers, midgets, cops, pissed off people, or the homeless?
I could show you a sweet kid with dwarfism that lives down the road, that kid has real moves and can punch you in the nuts with no effort! The only thing I have crazy with Bums of some sort that I can think of was, this one time when I was riding in my town we were all heading off to eat some Mickey D’s and get some sweet slop feeling going but, on the way there we see some like person in the middle of the road with super long hair. And we are like “is that some naked girl?”, so we pedal up closer and come to find out its some crazy naked redneck dude in the middle of the road, in front of some mobile home complex. He is screaming ” YA GUYS SEEN MY DAWG?! HUHHH?! HAVE YOU GUYS SEEN MY DAWGGG?!WHO TOOK MY DAWGG?” completely naked, not even the decent enough to wear socks hahahha. Then after we got to the McSpot, my friend pointed out after all the laughter and says “I like how no one said he has a small penis…”, the guy had the right to hangout I guess haa.

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
Yeah for sure! I want to get out to the west sometime soon, give Texas a check too. Mostly see more out west and stuff. And get some more things done for The Take and stuff, web edit wise and product design help.

What is something you aren’t very good at but wish you were?
When it comes to me filming a clip, hahahah. It’s even a big joke around with my TJD pals, I fail so hard. It’s like I can do stuff during a regular session first try and even laugh after it, but once the camera is out, I forget what I want to do and get out my riding character and forget what I want to do and it takes like 50 tries. So If I could, I’d like to be able to turn it on and keep having fun even when I’m gettin chased around with big ol soul stealer!

What is the best advice you got for the people out there?
Just listen, remember what you’re doing you’re things for. Not what “ANONYMOUS” says. HAVE FUN EVERYDAY, laugh and stuff, even though I sound like a played out Halmark Card, ya gotta do it.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
Heck Yeah, everyones fave.BIG BIG thanks to you Kurt for giving me this opportunity to do something as rad as this. Thanks a bunch dude. I’d like to give a big thanks to all the dudes at The Take, Alex for being so freakin awesome and keeping a “nig-nog on lock”, John Lee for being THEE nicest dude on the planet, Mike Erb/FBM dudes for helping me with last minute goodies and such. HUGE THANKS for Jeff Dupaul, cause face it without that dude, I don’t even know what I’d be doing N/H or whatever.Long Island Bike shop for hookin me up big time, even though I barely ever make it out there cause I suck. ALL my TJD pals that I see doing there thang and reppin that fun. My Mom for putting up with my broke bum butt for so long.Dan Foley for being Dan Foley. Tyson chicken wings for being so good in the morning. Girls for being so awesome to look at no matter what the situation hahahhaa. And sleep.

Anything else you want to say?
I just hope that everyone gets to know me at some point hahaha and realizes I’m the least serious person you’ll ever meet and pretty much am stoked for anything, hahahaa even crap talk. And thanks a bunch again Kurt, this ruled and it was was kinda hard!

Brian has been in BMX for years. Not many people have the chance to live like he has from being pro, to owning companies. It is cool to think about things like the old Volume Dinosaur, and seeing how BMX and the company has evolved over the years. Luckily Brian was into doing an interview and this is what he had to say…

Name:
Brian Castillo

Location:
THE O.C.

Sponsors:
None

Years Riding:
Long Time

What was it that originally got you into BMX?
It was a combination of things. I really liked to go fast and hit jumps. I always thought that feeling was awesome. I also got to see pros (George Smoot/Woody Itson) up the street from my house ride their half pipe and I always thought that it looked fun.

Being so busy with Volume and Demolition business everyday, about how much time do you find to ride these days?
I ride everyday still but only for a couple of hours a day.

Do you ever find it hard being your friends’ boss? I imagine you have had to let a friend go from the team at some point in Volume’s history?
That’s probably the hardest thing I’ve gone through as a company owner. One point is: you don’t want to hire someone you don’t like or know and you always want to hook up your friends. That said, it’s tough to have a friend as a boss. I think it’s one of the other. You definitely give up your friendship once you give someone money for a job.

What is it like to be able to give people the opportunity to live the dream of being a professional BMX rider?
It’s good and bad. Like the above answer, that’s the bad. When things don’t work out it sucks but when you first hire someone it’s a good feeling to help someone live out their dream of traveling and riding for a job.

You have had a career that has allowed you to travel all over the world. Where are some of your favorite places you have been?
Definitely anywhere in Australia and Canada (Vancouver). Those 2 are the closest places to the American lifestyle as you can get. I’m kind of a routine guy and in those 2 places I felt right at home.

Are there any places you haven’t been that you would love to go someday?
Not really, I’m kind of jaded on traveling right now. I’d always wanted to go to more exotic places though.

How do you feel about the level of progression of BMX these days?
It’s crazy! There are so many pro riders out there now taking it to a whole new level that I can’t even comprehend.

If I remember an older interview with you right, you had mentioned you were more of a chiller these days and not really out looking to learn new tricks. What was the last trick you learned and when was this?
Oh man, I couldn’t even tell you. I’m that guy that’s just having fun trying to re-learn what I was doing the year beforehand. Right now in my riding, it’s more about the feeling then trying to play catch up with what’s current in BMX.

Who are some of the guys you ride with on a more regular basis these days?
It sounds weird but I really don’t ride with anyone. I wake up at 7am to ride the parks and after work I ride some schoolyards. I’m definitely on my own schedule.

Where can you usually be found riding these days?
Nowhere new! I don’t have time like I used to. I used to hunt down new spots but now I’m content on riding the same ol schools near my house.

If you could relive any session or trip you have ever been on. Which one would you choose and why?
Oh wow. There are so many good memories on the road, it’s hard to give you just one. I would say it would be Bennett, Enns and myself up in Oregon. Those two guys are awesome to go on trips with. I can’t go on trips with the new kids on the team without the feeling of suicide. They’re zooming around doing their flips and spins and I’m doing a manual 180 on a curb. It’s pathetic feeling.

You are going on a road trip with an unlimited budget but you can only fit 5 people. Who do you bring, and where do you go?
Ha-ha. Bennett, Enns, Doyle, Wise and Dave Parrick. I know that would be the good time crew! We’d be lost somewhere in Australia.

When you first got involved with BMX, did you ever imagine it becoming what it has for you?
I always had dreams just like everyone else to do this and go there. I don’t really think about it now. I’ve been working at it for so long, that I stopped thinking about how far it’s gotten.

Over the years what kind of an injury list have you compiled?
I’ve had the worst time with shoulder injuries. For a while when I only dirt jumped, it was getting bad with broken collarbones.

If you could change anything about BMX, what would you change and why?
I’d say all the shit talkers but it makes you more tolerant and thicker-skinned. Sometimes it has its advantages if you’re really competitive too.

Outside of work and riding, what are you usually up to?
Home improvement type stuff. I’m really into making my own furniture. By no means am I saying I’m good at it because I’m not but it’s cool to see it go from a flat board to something I created.

When you meet somebody new, how do you explain what you do? What is the typical reaction?
I stopped telling people what I really do. Now I just tell them that I’m a graphic designer. When I used to tell them that I ride a BMX bike they always put their arms straight out and wiggle both arms back and forth, imitating riding a bike. Then they say, “you’re really tall and old to ride those little bikes”. UGH!

Who or what are some of the biggest influences on how you live your life?
Now that I’m older I can see my parents played a huge part on how I live my life. Like every young kid I would have never accepted being anything like my dad but now…

If you could see any band live right now, who would you choose to see and why?
Either Fugazi or Superchunk. Those were/ are my favorites. Timeless masters.

Have you ever been arrested or in a fight before? Care to share why or how you did?
Sorry, no. I’m boring like that. I’m sure there are some that do want to fight me though.

Did you ever go to college at all or have you just learned everything as time goes on?
I tried but it wasn’t for me. If I want to learn something I’ll get the book and go that route.

What is something about yourself nobody really knows or has a hard time believing?
I couldn’t even tell you. Too many to list I guess?

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
Thanks

When I first heard of Jeff K he was just that guy from Midwest BMX that killed it. Over time we have bumped into each other a few times on trips and stuff and he had always been way cool. To be honest this was one of the first people I wanted to interview when I started this. Never the less it is finally here now so enjoy.

Name:
Jeff Anthony Klugiewicz

Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin (Eastside)

Sponsors:
Mankind, Sun Rims, Profile Racing, UGP, Hardcore Sportz, Division.

Years riding:
8

What was it that originally got you into BMX, and did you ever think it would be taking you all over the world?
Got a bike…. Started pedaling and haven’t stopped. I started riding and never ever thought about being sponsored, when shit started happening i couldn’t believe it, i still cant! I’m definitely very blessed!

How are things going with Mankind? I know your frame just dropped an it is looking real good?
Things have been very good. Christoph (the owner of Mankind) lets me do what I want with a lot of things! Ya my frame did drop and am very excited on how it turned out.

How about Profile, and your other sponsors? Anything cool going on with them?
Ive been working on a profile edit and that just came out. also have been trying to do a Tshirt with Profile as well. We’ve been working on that lately.! Also my good buddy Karl Poynter Just asked me to ride for his shop “Hardcore Sportz”, and im real stoked on it! Its cool to ride for a shop that puts BMX first! Keep a eye for there new site to drop!

It seems like you have blown up so much since the days of Midwest BMX, do you feel like that was a big factor in getting yourself noticed or was it other factors?
I’m sure it helped, everything does! Also traveling and meeting people helped. Catfish has done a bunch for me! So big thanks to him for all he’s done.

Speaking of Midwest BMX, what is going on with that site now? I heard it’s pretty much just you and Mike Hinkens running it now?
Um Mike just got added to the list of people who update the site! But Dom still does a lot! We are trying to get the site going more.

Who Else Updates the site?
Here’s the list! Me, Mike Hinkens, Dominic Trovato, Jake Geisel, Micah Kranz, and Grant C will be soon!

Do you have any new web videos, or video parts in the works? Will there ever be a Midwest BMX DVD done once you get some time?
Um videos just come when I can! I am super busy with a lot of other shit that it makes it hard plan things out! The Midwest DVD was just a dream, ha!

You have had the chance to travel a lot this past year, where are some of your favorite places you got to go?
hmm, anywhere I go is always fun! but I had a blast in Tel Aviv, Israel. the weather and people were so good, we just chilled and it was definitely a vacation. San Diego was super fun

Any places you are traveling or would like to go to?
I am going to baco in Florida! As far as places I’d like to go… anywhere overseas!

The Milwaukee scene has always been really good, who are some up and comers people should be keeping their eyes out for?
Little Jon!!! I know he’s on Kink, But a lot of people out there still don’t know, he’s a savage! others you don’t know id have to say Jeff Dowhen(Jeff D)! He has been killing it lately!

Who is your typical riding crew when your not out on trips?
Mike Hinkens… if I’m on a bike in Milwaukee its usually with him! Logan Reynalds, Jeff Dowhen, Grant C, Jake Geisel, Edson Nieves, and Andrew Kuntz! there’s a lot more but those I ride with the most!

You have been killing it brakeless these days, however I noticed you didn’t hack your mounts. Do you ever plan on putting some brakes back on?
I don’t know, I’m not going to say i am or I’m not, i just do it one day at a time and for now my bikes rolling good!

What is one trick you will never get sick of doing or seeing and why?
I really like tables. I’d have to say because there are so many different ways the trick is done! and watching someone snap a table… It’s just sick!

If you could only ride in one place for the rest of your days, where would you pick and why?
4 seasons! All my friends ride there and the place is always changing the setup, so at least I wouldn’t have to ride the same shit forever!

If you could change anything about BMX, what would you change and why?
The Hate! I don’t really feel like I have to explain!

What do you think you would be up to if you never got into BMX?
I don’t care!

Outside of riding, what are you up to?
Working building skate parks! Chilling and partying!

Are you still working at 4 Seasons, or is riding the full time job these days?
I build there when I want and make extra cash! It’s nice to make your own hours!

What kind of music are you into?
Indie, Rap, Hip-Hop, Classic Rock…

A good night of partying includes…
PBR, Friends, Beer Pong, Music, and More Friends!

Have you ever been in a fight or arrested? Did you win the fight or what did you go down for?
Fighting is Not for me, I’ve been in them, try not to but sometimes you can’t avoid them! Don’t really want to say more than that!

What is something you aren’t very good at, but wish you could do better?
Art, I don’t suck completely but I’m definitely not naturally talented at it!

What are some of the most important things in life?
To me I’d have to say Family and Friends!

Being somewhat of a web guy, what are some of your favorite websites?
www.thecomeupbmx.net for the info not the hate!
www.profileracing.com
www.midwestbmx.net
www.UndergroundProducts.com
www.myspace.com ha

Who or what are some of the biggest influences in your life?
My Parents!!!

If you could change anything about the world, what would you change and why?
The Hate!

What is some of the best advice you can give for the kids out there reading this?
Stay away from the comment boards!!!!

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
Ya lots of them! Karl@Hardcoresportz, Mike Hinkens, Logan Reynolds, Jake Geisel, Grant C, Carter and Shrek@Ride, Christoph@Mankind, Jerry@System Cycle, Chad Degroot, Brian Kachinsky, Jon Wells@Sun, My Girlfriend Alex, Starbucks, Miles Rogoish, Tony Maloof, My Parents, Good Weather, and anyone i have ever rode with, thanx!

Anything else you would like to say?
Nope

Jeff’s new Profile edit.

With the recent release of the DVD These Days, I figured it would be a cool idea to talk with Stewart about what it took to make the DVD. It seems like so many people want to make a video these days and have a good chance of failing. So maybe, if you have ever wanted to make a BMX DVD, or a video in general, this might just help you make it a reality.

Name:
Stewart Munro

Location:
Brisbane,Queensland,Australia

Years involved with film:
I have been filming off and on for years. I have been filming full-time for the last 4 years now.

What was it the originally got you into video filming and editing?
I always would film Clint Millar and Colin Mackay when they were filming for Clint’s old Prody videos. When Colin got offered a part in the Ride BMX – Digital Interface DVD I filmed a lot of that when he was back in Australia.

Did you ever expect it to turn into a career?
Well I really had no idea what I wanted to do for a career so I ended up going to film school for 3 years. Now I have started my own production company (crf media). As of lately I have been getting a lot of free lance work with fuel tv usa and vitalbmx.com.

Your freshly released DVD “These Days” turned out really great. What was it that made you want to make a full length video in the first place?
I always wanted to see if I could make a full length dvd. I just started talking with Corey Boahn and he was really interested in doing a part. After that I got in contact with some other riders and things just started from there.

Was making the video a learning experience, or did you already have an idea of what you were getting yourself into?
Making These Days was a BIG learning experience! Trying to stick to a deadline, riders backing out on the dvd two days before the deadline, and just trying to keep everyone happy!

What kind of equiptment are you working with from cameras and lenses to computers and editing software?
I got a NTSC Panasonic AG-DVX100a, Krasnogorsk-3 Super 16mm camera, and a Canon 1014 XL-S super 8mm. I edited the dvd on a pc using Adobe – After Effects, and Premiere Pro.

What is your dream set up for gear, computers, software, etc?
I really want to buy a Panasonic hpx 170 HD camera and Mac book pro.

What kind of a budget were you working with? How did you go about getting riders to places to film and everything?
There was no budget!I paid for everything myself with the exception of Corey bohan paying for my flight and a hotel to finsh his part. I’m very greatful for that! I just want to say a big thanks to all the riders in the dvd and their filmers!

How long did it take to film the video from idea to final product?
16 months!

When filming what are some things you really like to focus on doing?
I just try and make sure my camera is set up right and the lens is clean. I also try and work out where the best spot to film is.

When editing what are some things you really like to focus on doing?
Music is one of thing I like focus on. I just lie making sure everything goes together right.

After you had finished filming and editing, what are the next steps to getting the video mass produced and then shipped around the world?
I just googled “DVD Duplication” and found a good place to get the dvd made. I talked to Clint Millar about how to get distributors for the DVD. I have to say getting distributors to take your DVD when they have not heard of you before is very hard. Clint got me hooked up with Joel from Tip Plus for the U.S.A and Triple 6 for distributing the dvd in Australia and New Zealand.

What do you think seperates your style of filming and editing to other professional videographers and editors out there?
That’s a hard one… I guess I try and have a differnt feeling with my DVD’s.

Who are some people that really influence your work, or who do you look up to?
well i look up to all the videographers like Chad Shack, Will Stroud , Glen PP, Ryan Navazio, Marco Svizzero, Mark Eaton, Cooper Brownlee. I have looked up to all of these guys and I have been buying all their DVD’s!

If you could change anything about “These Days”, what would you change and why?
I would not change a thing! I am so happy and very lucky to have all the riders that are in the DVD in it!

Do you have any plans on making another video? Will it be easier because of what you have learned doing this project?
Right now I’m just thinking about who I would like to have a parts in the next DVD. Nick Cooper is on board for the next one so far.

What are some other things involved in making a video that you don’t think most people understand?
The whole organization side of making a DVD is a really big thing. Also that most people just don’t understand how much time goes into making a dvd.

What kind of education did you have to learn what you do? Do you feel school is important or is it one of those things you will learn most of it as you just do it?
When I first went to film school I just wanted to know how to edit. After I got there I saw all the other cool stuff that it had to offer. Shooting on film was the next thing I really wanted to get into. I just love the way 16mm and super 8mm look.

What can we expect from your new company Cutting Floor Productions as time continues?
Well, I will be working on a new dvd straight up. I will also be having my site going live anyday now. I would like to try and do some video work for some bike companys in the USA. Also just getting more videos on Vital BMX.

Outside of BMX, what are some other projects you are typically working on?
Next month I am filming a pretty big Australian band called PNAU
at a music festival that will have 50,000 people there. I will be shooting the whole thing in 16mm.

What kind of advice do you have for people looking to get into filming and editing?
Just get out there and film. Jut have a go at it! Learn how to uses all the manaul settings!

Anything else you would like to say?
I would like to thank Corey Boahn, Cooper Brownlee, Marc@strictlybmx.com, Clint Millar,I can’t be fucked Glenny M, Colin Mackay, Cam, European Bianca, Tall Bianca, Dave D for filming the 2nd angle. Anyone who helped making this dvd and all the riders and filmers that were involed! And Kurt for giving me this interview!