John is a rider who is very talented, not only in his riding but in his music. The coolest part about interviews is you could ask the same questions to 10 different people and get 10 different stories. Obviously the questions aren’t the same as the rest but John lives more than just a BMX life. So this is his interview- enjoy, and leave some comments for him.

Name:
John Ludwick Jr.

Location:
Meredith, NH

Sponsors:
Madera, Versa, UGP Shoes, Rye Airfield Skatepark, and Team Jeff Dupaul haha

Years Riding:
7 years this month

You are one of the few Versa guys, so how are things going with your prototype? When will it be available? Is there any videos or road trips in the works outside of products getting set up?
Things have been going very well with my prototype and I am very very happy with it. I am not sure when it will be available, we are still talking about whether it will be a collaboration frame, limited edition, etc. There are some changes going on at Versa as of late, but we are working on some more hard goods, getting soft goods out so kids can rep them.

How are things going with the rest of your sponsors? Anything along the lines of trips, filming, signature products going on with them and you?
Things are awesome, I couldnt be happier. I leave for wisconsin next week (july 2nd) for a Madera trip to shoot photos, film, and just be together and have a blast hanging out. As far as signature products go, I am working on a Madera shirt design, and the Versa frame. I am doing my best to help Chad Degroot out with getting UGP Shoes where it needs to be as well.

Last I checked you are brakeless. Have you thought about running brakes again,why or why not?
I have actually never run brakes, and I have never really thought about running them. The brake levers feel weird to me and I was never good at dialing brakes in so I never run them haha

What are your plans for the summer? or year even?
My band How Near, How Far just broke up a few days ago due to musical differences and a bunch of other stuff, and my drummer and I have started a new project which we are trying to get off the ground. So my summer is first and foremost involving working full time to be able to afford the gear needed for this caliber of project. The yearly plan is to get the project going, ride as much as possible, and try to stay healthy, but most important, to stay happy.

What is one trick that you will never get sick of doing?
There are a few, but to name one would probably be barspin to footjams.

What is one trick that makes you sick trying to figure out?
Turndowns and inverts haha I gave up a while ago

You have had the chance to travel a fair amount because of BMX, where are your favorite places you have had the chance to ride?
Definitely Boston, it is only a little over an hour away from me, and it’s got everything i love to ride, mainly because all my friends are from there I suppose. I really enjoy riding Los Angeles a lot too, I’m not too picky anymore, I just love riding with my friends, but I’m real psyched I’ve gotten the chance to see the entire country and a bit more. It really is a blessing.

Where are some places you would really like to go to at sometime?
England, I love everything about it, except all the rain in the winter season. I love the culture as a whole, the architecture, the people, the riding scene and it’s amazing street, and last but not least, the girls’ accents… as cliche as that may sound haha. I love it so much.

Photo Credit: svenreed photo

Who is your typical riding crew these days and where could you usually be found riding?
I don’t have a typical riding crew, i ride by myself everyday. Nobody rides in my town, it’s always been like that. Some of the kids from surrounding areas that ride with me every other week would include my friends Jesse, Chris, and Spits, and thats about it. I used to go to boston every weekend to ride, so I had an awesome group of friends I would ride with down there. But between work and my bands I dont go down as often anymore. I can usually be found riding my local park here in Meredith NH. It’s free, wood w/sheet metal, and it is real good.

Who or what were/are your biggest influences in your riding growing up and today?
I think my music is my biggest influence in riding today, it’s hard to put into words, but music motivates me in ways i can’t describe. As far as riders are concerned, Chad Degroot has always been a big influence to me, which makes it such an honor to be involved in a few companies with him today, I feel the same about Matt Coplon and my Madera relationship. Joel Moody and Brian Castillo are others who were real influential as well.

You don’t come off as much of a contest rider. How do you feel about contests and do you ever hit any up or plan to?
I used to go to a ton of contests even though I’m not really that style of rider. 2 years ago I did pretty well in about 10 contests and came out top 10 in them. It felt awesome to be up there with the crazy dudes when my style of riding was closer to the ground and my bike and bars only went around once at a time. Today the contests have gotten out of control, it’s not appetizing to me at all anymore. I don’t plan on riding in any contests as of now, perhaps a local northeast contest or jams just to have fun with friends.

You have hang 5’s and hang nothings dialed. What is the trick to those since you can do them down stairs?
haha I think the only trick to anything is to do it a lot. Like I said before, I don’t have a riding crew, so a few years ago before i started playing in bands I would spend all my free time outside learning every version of a nose manual I could haha. I’m not sure what the whole stairs thing was all about haha, I had always wanted to do something like that, I started doing straight nose manuals down stairs, but that didn’t last long hahaha.

What do you think you would be up to if you never got into BMX?
Doing exactly what I’m doing now, playing music.

Outside of riding what are some things you are into?
My bands, they take up most of my time now, aside from working a lot to earn the money needed to keep the bands afloat. I am a big Volkswagen kid haha I have a lot of money into my 92 mkII jetta gli, my father raced a 78 gti back when I was a kid so that got me into VWs, and he collects muscle cars, so cars were always something I was into. But like everything else, it all takes money.

Photo Credit: svenreed photo

You play a lot of music, where can people check out your stuff and how long have you been playing for?
Ive been playing music almost all of my life. It all started in 7th grade. I went from guitar/bass to drums to piano.
Right now you can check out HowNear,HowFar’s stuff since we had just finished our 4 song cd called “The Loved & Lost ep” at…
myspace.com/hownearhowfarfromyou
I have always played my own acoustic music aside from other bands I’ve been in, so you can also check that out at…
myspace.com/johnsingssongs
But what I am most psyched about right now is the new band my drummer from HNHF and I have started called Fires In Skyscrapers. This project is going to be an intricate collaboration of serious programming/mac driven ambience, Explosions In The Sky meets The Appleseed Cast, super powerful, driving indie style of music. It is going to be an entire concept band/album/songs/live show that all ties together. We have a lot of work to do and with any luck, it will be getting to where we need it to be by this time next year. We have started a myspace and you can add us (though there is no music up) at…
myspace.com/firesinskyscrapers

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
Definitely get Fires In Skyscrapers off the ground and change people’s lives with it. I’m over just playing in bands, this project is going to be unlike anything I have seen (if all goes as planned). We really want to bring people into a scenario when they see us live, everything from the light sequencing to silence to bursts of energy. Also I want to get to England in the next few years haha.

If you could spend the day with anybody, alive, dead, fictional, who would it be and why?
I would have to say my future wife. I have been through a few long term relationships that have been hard or ended bad, so I’ve been waiting for the right girl to come along. I’m eager to meet them cause it’ll complete the happiness in my life.

What is the best movie of all time?
oh i can hardly answer that one, but one of my favorites as of late has been The Prestige. I have quite the old school horror movie collection too haha.

What are some bands you are into and are there any you suggest people to check out?
I am into a lot of my friends bands, my brother bands we usually play with. I strongly suggest you check out my friends Call Her Alaska. I just finished recording guest vocals with them last week, you can hear their stuff (along with the song I sang in called ‘Stiletto’) at…
myspace.com/callheralaska
Taylor (the singer) is a real good friend of mine and is a super good dude, they are on the verge of something great for sure. Another group of guys that are super close friends of mine are in a band called Me As Time. These guys are also incredible and can’t wait to get my project going to continue to play shows and tour with these guys.
myspace.com/meastime
As far as my musical taste goes in bands, I listen to everything, everything from hardcore, metal, indie, acoustic, I just listen to it all.

What is something crazy that has happened to you that nobody believes?
God miraculously healed my mother years ago, but most open minded people believe it, so I’m not sure i have one that absolutely nobody believes haha.

Have you ever been in a fight, why or why not and did you win?
I have had close calls, but I am usually pretty easy going, so I avoid most situations where someone would get out of line and want to fight me (or where I’d actually want to fight back haha)

Photo Credit: svenreed photo

If you were to win the lottery what would you do with the cash?
Pay off all of my family’s bills so they all could live without having to worry about any of that. I would donate money to music charities. But I would definitely buy all the thousands of dollars worth of gear that Fires In Skyscrapers is going to need and get that band off the ground haha. I would buy a house too, and save the rest.

What are some of your favorite websites to check out?
musiciansfriend.com haha
vwvortex.com
saundersstudio.com> – my good friend chris’ photography
ebay.com

What is the best advice you have ever been given?
My parents have always given me the best advice from life, to faith, to girls, to anything.

What kind of advice do you have for kids just getting into BMX?
Have fun, stay safe, don’t ever let anyone tell you you have to ride a certain way. Don’t let something as silly as riding bicycles consume your life, you won’t be riding your entire life.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
As cliche as it may sound, I thank God for everything I have in my life, my family, my health, my friends. My parents for always being there for me and being the strongest, best people I have ever met. Matt Coplon for his ocd, dry humor, but mostly being one of the best dudes out there, for his friendship and all the help with Madera/Profile. Chad Degroot for all the UGP help and also being one of the best/funniest dudes I know. I just want to thank all of my friends for being awesome people, you mean more to me than bikes ever could, that’s what I cherish out of riding, all of your friendships, that lasts forever. And thank you Kurt for this interview!!

Anything else you would like to say?
Winter in the northeast sucks!!

Trey Jones; the come up kid’s favorite target for cut downs and straight out lies. Why was he picked on? I’m not sure. Maybe cause he’s not “Street” enough. Maybe cause he’s young. Maybe it’s his big bike. Maybe cause people are jealous that he gets free stuff and they don’t.
People have these preconceived ideas about him, and they are all wrong. Trey is really laid back, NOT full of himself. He does not get his stuff for his parents, he works for his father’s landscaping company to get money for the bike parts he buys and actually gives away his old parts to friends in need often. You can hate him if you want, but why not hold off on the judgement until you actually meet the kid? For some of you unfortunately this interview is the closest you’ll get; So without any further ado, this is Trey Jones.

Photo: Jordan Pope

Name:
Trey Jones

Location:
Orlando, FL

Sponsors:
Nike 6.0(flow), Fit Bike Co.(flow), TXL, Dude Bird

Years Riding:
I started racing when I was 4 and started riding freestyle about 7 years ago when Mission Skatepark opened.

Being as young as you are, is balancing riding and school difficult?
Oh yeah! My friends always want to go ride earlier than I get out of school which means I miss on a lot of good sessions. Not to mention the time I have to put in at home doing homework and studying. If I feel like crap I pretty much go to school so I can save my absences for things that come up related to riding that I want to do.

Do you plan on going to school or try this whole BMX career once your done with high school?
I’m pretty sure I’ll go to school and try to balance the two but I don’t know I’ll make that decision when it comes.

Photo: Brett Rohlfing

So you are addicted to coffee at 15, shouldn’t you save habbits like that for college or when you have a full time job?
Hahahha I don’t know man! I just am addicted! Coffee=love

You listed Dude Bird as a sponsor, what is that for those who don’t know?
okay so it all started on a trip to Lakeland, FL….. Me, Nick Mahoney, Cody Perry, Brett Rohlfing, David Mahoney and Chris “Nails” were riding. Throughout the day we all saw alot of dead birds, then someone said “chill dude” instead of chill bro when referencing the Empire dvd, and Cody puts on a green jacket that looks like something Larry Bird would have worn… someone with all that someone uttered the words “Dude Bird” and the joke of dude bird and the goofy videos followed.

What is the biggest misconception people have about you?
That people think I’m trendy! So what im 5’3 and ride a 21”tt and bars that are 8.25”x29”

What are your plans contest wise for the summer?
I’m really not sure yet. I’m just hoping to get to travel around the U.S. a bit, hang out with my boys back in FL, go to Woodward for a little bit and ’die of heat stroke in the extremely hot FL sun and just ride!

Where or what are some of your favorite spots or set ups?
If you know me very well, I like pretty much anything and everything! A lot of guys are really picky about spots they ride like if there is dirt or grass before the lip or they don’t have the right roll up space but I’m not really that picky. Some of my favorite spots would def. have to be mesh, the trails, Orlando street, UCF street and my house

Who is your typical riding crew?
Some guys I love to ride with are Nick Mahoney, Dave Mahoney, Eugene Tanner, Brett Rohlfing, Squirell, Kyle Noble, Kyle Baldwin, Curly, Cody perry, Ryan Flecsh, Joel Pierazek.

Photo: Brett Rohlfing

Any local guys you think should be getting coverage?
There are so many dudes that havent been getting coverage that should but just to name a few are Nick Mahoney, Cody Perry and Joel Pierazek. These guys are so good and haven’t got barely any attention so watch out for them!

You ride some places known for attracting a very rowdy group. Have you picked up any drug or alcohol addictions yet?
Yes and yes……jk

You have a nice backyard setup, and tend to switch up parts a fair amount. Many people think that since you are just 15 mommy and daddy are just buying you all this stuff, is that the case?
Actually that ramp has been my last 4 years of Christmas presents and birthday presents plus me buying more wood in between.

What are some other tricks you have been working on lately?
I’ve been working on fakie to half cab whip to fakie on a quarter. I personally have never seen it done before and I think its possible. Ive tried it so many times but I’m getting there

What trick took you the longest to learn that you do today?
Definitely tail whips! Just clamp!

If Tony Malouf pissed on you while you were sleeping, what would you do?
Haha! Oh man, I have no clue! I love Tony, but I don’t know, he’s the same size as me so I think I could take him! Haha love you Tony!

Photo: Nick Mahoney

What is one meal you could never get sick of?
Hungry Howies Cheese pizza with butter crust and root beer

What are some bands you are into?
I like a lot of older metal and punk bands like Metallica, Iron Maiden, Danzig, The Misfits and The Casualties

Any you think people have to check out?
Gut Ruckus for sure!

What are some of your favorite movies?
Back to the Future Trilogy (I want a Delorean) , Fast Times at Ridgemont High and of course RAD!

What is the best advice you have ever received?
Just go faster!

Do you spend much time on the Internet? What are the last 5 websites you visited?
MySpace, Vital BMX, The Come Up, Fit Bike Co. and of course BMX Union.

What is something nobody believes about you when you tell them?
I know everything there is to know about King of the Hill

What do you do when you’re not riding?
Hang with friends and family, listen to music and sleep

Who or what are some of your biggest influences on your life?
Evil Knievel, Jeff Spicoli and my dog Spanky

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
Definitely finish high school, get to some contests outside of Florida right now that’s pretty tough and enjoy life.

Photo: Brett Rohlfing

Any shout outs or thanks?
Oh man, my parents for sure! Just because they support me 150% with anything I do. Mark Losey for his advice and support with Nike, Rob-o for hooking it up with Fit, Brett Rohfling for all the video/photo work and for just being awesome, Chad DeGroot for just helping me out with anything and everything, Tim and Billy at TXL, and Mavro for being rad.

Anything else you would like to say?
“Relax, all right? My old man is a television repairman, he’s got this ultimate set of tools. I can fix it.”- Jeff Spicoli

I met Tony pretty breifly a year or two ago pre-baco being banned from Wisconsin. Hes a really legit dude. With recently being removed from the Sputnic team myself and Brett Rohlfing got some questions together for him and this is how it went.

Name:
Anthony Malouf

Location:
Prospect Heights Illinois

Sponsors:
UGP, Primo

Years riding:
7

To start off with what everyone wants to know. What happened with you and Sputnic? Did you leave, get dropped or what? I heard rumors you pee’d on somebody on the team?
I was dropped. I don’t really know the real reason. Personal differences I guess. The Piss rumors are true. I pissed on Ricky Bates in the middle of the night. I was blacked out drunk and don’t even remember doing it. In the morning I didn’t beleive Ricky when he told me, but he convinced me. He wasn’t too upset though. I had to wash some blankets and Johnny’s Matress. I don’t think that had anything to do with me getting the boot.

Do you have any new sponsors in the works or what are you looking to do now?
Nothing at the moment. Im hoping something will pop up, but I’m not gonna let it get me down if nothing ever comes up.

It seems like you have been putting out a new web video out every week, what do you have planned filming wise? More edits or do you have a video part in the works?
I don’t really know. When ever I film a bunch of stuff all in a day or two. I try to get it out quick so it doesn’t get old.

You have been traveling a lot lately, where have you been the last few months and what do you have planned trip wise?
I been in Cali, Ohio, Georgia, Iowa, Wisconsin. The next move is Tulsa, OK.

You have a lot of style with your riding, did you grow up racing and riding trails or how did you learn to throw down the way you do?
No, I never raced. I started riding park but I never rode pegs untill a year ago or so. I just liked jumping, so thats all I did.

It seems like you got a lot of tricks on lock, what are some that have been giving you the most trouble lately?
Barspins are trouble. I can do them in 180’s and 3’s like nothing but straight ones are scary.

Living close to Chicago and Millwaukee you have some really solid crews of guys to ride with, do you feel like that has impacted your riding at all? I know a lot of guys from that area like Jeff K got sponsor deals around the same time as you.
Yeah definately. Taking little trips up north to Milwaukee is what got me real siked on traveling and riding. Jeff K was like the first dude I met who made videos so it was fun to film and stuff. Jeff K is king of blacking out and making anything his toilet. Sorry Jeff.

What are your plans for the summer, just being a chiller or do you plan on hitting up some contests?
I really want to travel a bunch more and film for a little video Miles Rogoish and I are working on. Money is an issue right now. Other wise we would be somewhere right now filming with dudes.

Where are some places you haven’t had the chance to ride that you would really like to ride someday?
I haven’t been out of the Country yet. Other than Canada. So that would be fun. I want to make it to PA this summer to ride some trails.

Who are some pros you have looked up to over the years?
Kevin Porter, Oliver Leonerd, Shawn Arata, Chris Doyle.

Have you ever had a weird situation where you show up hundreds of miles away from home and have somebody recognize you?
Yeah…

What do you think you would be up to if you never got into BMX?
I would probably be in College playing a sport of some sort.

If you could change anything about BMX, what would you change and why?
Nothing really. It’s all good to me.

Outside of riding bikes, what are some things you are into?
Filming, digging, skateboarding, partying, poofin

Did you ever go to college or do you ever plan to?
No, no.

You are a big fan of biggy and tupac it would seem, is that all you listen to or what kinds of music are you into?
Pretty much into anything. I love classic rock and blues. Only thing I’m not really down with is country and techno.

What are some movies you are a fan of?
Too many to list. I love movies.

Who or what are some of your biggest influences on your life?
My old man, www.midwestbmx.net , Hunter S Thomson, Dook Wallace, Walter Peringer.

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
Find a good filming job. Finish this video with Miles. Probably start on another one.

If you could spend the day with anybody, alive or dead, who would it be and why?
Christopher Walken, he is the ultimate G.

Do you have any good stories about run ins with the cops, security, midgets, stripper combos, or anything else you can tell us about?
I got plenty of good ones. Last good one was in Iowa after the ExtravaJamza at the Davenport park. We got really drunk, we got in a fight, the cops came. Really fun night.

What would you do with the cash if you won the lottery?
I would buy and entire block and invite all my buddies from all over to come live in a house for a year. It would be a non-stop block party. Ramps going from yard to yard. crazy shit. That could be a reality show.

If you could change anything about the world what would it be and why?
I don’t know.

What kind of advice do you have for people just getting into BMX?
Ride tranny. Learn to controll your bike before you start trying tricks.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
Thanks to My family, all my friends , UGP, Chad Degroot, Primo, Nate Moroshan, Grange Waldo, Dook Wallace, B-rad, Pascal, Juice, Shmall Gary, Miles Wasssup?

Anything else you would like to say?
Look for more PLUSH Productions on the web. Peace.

Tony Malouf from John O'Connor on Vimeo.

Cody probably has in my eyes one of the best jobs in the world. He gets to write about bmx, take photos, travel, and all sorts of other things revolving around BMX as his job. I am really stoked on this interview for a lot of reasons. I am stoked mostly just because it was like a career day reading this for me, but maybe it’s just me?

Location:
Cleveland, OH

Sponsors:
None, but thanks to Micreation, Mutiny, Shadow, Failure Bikes, Sputnic, Ride and Ride UK and anyone else for hooking me up!

Years riding:
8

You’re the editor for EXPN’s BMX side of things, how long have you been doing that and how did you end up getting the job?
I’ve been doing it for about 6 months now and it’s been awesome. In the last couple years, I have been shooting a lot of freelance BMX photos for ads and magazines and then one summer day I got a call from Mary Fenton at EXPN asking me to shoot X Games for them. It was pretty random, but obviously I was stoked; a week later, I was shooting X Games and having a blast. After that, EXPN noticed I used to work at BMX Plus! Magazine and that I had a lot of ties in the industry, so they asked if I would be interested in doing some news feeds for them which consisted of pitching story (for lack of better word) ideas, shooting/contributing photos, and of course backing up those ideas with interesting and as well as factual content. A short while later, they came up with the idea of having bloggers for each extreme sport that EXPN covers on the site. I was then offered to do the BMX side of things and that’s where I’m at today.

What are some of the different things you get to do for work?
I get to travel a lot, go on amazing roadtrips, hangout and ride with some of the best BMXers in the world, shoot photos of them and basically write and share my experiences with all of you via online and through publications. But that’s not all entirely through EXPN, a lot of that is on my own account when freelancing for magazines. EXPN gives me a budget to collect content for my blog (to pay for video and photo content). I don’t do too much traveling on their expense. Although, EXPN sends me to X Games each year and that is always amazing! I generally collect all the content for my blog through emails, phone calls or being on the road.

Did you go to school at all to get the job?
Well, Yes and No. While it hasn’t mattered for any BMX gigs that I’ve had, including working as the assistant editor at BMX Plus! Magazine. I did go to college for photography and received an AA degree. But in reality, going to school did little more than get me a degree to back myself up if ever necessary. What really landed me my jobs has been my passion for photography and the sport of BMX mixed in with a little bit of luck, or maybe a lot of luck. I learned most of my photography skills on my own, trial and error, ect.

Have you had the chance to do much traveling for them? and do you have any trips planned for 08′ so far?
As far as stuff for EXPN goes, I’ll be heading up to New York next week for Kevin Robinson’s record-breaking attempt for highest air, which should be out of hand. I’ll actually be doing commentary and interviewing Kevin for video content on our site and my blog. I’ll also be out in California for X Games in August and randomly traveling around the US shooting photos to contribute to Ride, Ride UK and BMX Plus! Mags throughout the summer. Just recently, I went on the Local Exposure Tour 5 for a Ride UK story and that was one of the coolest trips I’ve been on. I got to hang out with Micah Kranz, which is always a blast and we talked a lot about how awesome the Milwaukee scene is lately, so I’m planning on getting up there really soon too.

You do some filming and photography for the site what are your camera set ups, editing programs, computer set-up. All the things you need to do what you do?
Well, I don’t do any of filming actually; wish I could take the credit and was that talented (ha-ha). No, I have a great group of videographers that produce the exclusive high-quality content for me; they are located all over the US. They are, Larry Alvarado, Chris Mahaffey, Brock Gomez and Kyle Huber. Without them there wouldn’t be exclusive quality video on my blog, big thanks to those guys for making things happen!
As for photos, I do handle most of the images for my blog, here’s the short list of my photography gear I own:
DIGITAL
-Canon EOS 1D Mark 11 Body
-Canon 15mm Fisheye
-Canon 70-200mm
-Canon 50mm
FILM
-Bronica SQ-B Body
-Bronica 50mm
-Bronica 80mm
-Bronica 150mm
-2 Film Backs
-Waist level finder
FLASHES
-Quantum Q-Flash (Quantum Q-Paq Battery)
-Lumedyne 400WS (Lumedyne Battery)
-Sunpak 622 (Lumedyne Battery)
-Vivitar 285 (Rechargables)
-4 Pocket Wizards
COMPUTERS
-12-inch Mac Powerbook G4
-IBM Think Pad PC for work.
-AT&T Wireless Card
-A few External Hard Drives.

Ian Schwartz- This photo was used for a Micreation Ad when Ian was still on MI. I just love this photo because it’s totally is Ian going fast and having fun and it was a good time shooting it.

With work and traveling, how much time do you find to ride?
Not much at all to be honest. Part of the reason is time, but a bigger part is that I haven’t had health insurance for about a year so that has slowed things down quite a bit, but once I take care of that I’ll start riding harder.

Where are some of your favorite spots to ride?
Cincinnati, OH for sure. I love that place, it’s only about 3-4 hr. drive south from Cleveland and it’s got one of the best scenes in my opinion. Tony Neyer holds it down and always makes my visits worthwhile. It’s just super fun to ride down there cause the scene is big, lots of great riders and spots that make for a good time. Some other places I’ve been to that I also like riding are, Baton Rouge, Orlando and with the Santa Barbara scene, all are places that have cool spots and awesome riders to ride with.

Where is one spot you have seen in photos/videos you really want to go to sometime?
Thankfully I’ve been to most spots I’ve always wanted to see or shoot at. Some spots I love and/or would recommend are, the ghetto banks in Alabama, the dam in LA, the range peel in Florida, huge trannie walls in Baton Rouge; those are all spots that were awesome to see. I always wanted to shoot a photo of Tony Neyer on this cement vert pipe ditch thing in Cincy, but he ended up shooting it with Z when he came to town. Thanks Tony, haha!

Chris Brown- This shot I took while working at Plus! It never ran and not sure why, the spot the infamous Willshire rails in LA and this is pretty nuts. Chris didn’t grind all the way of the end, but still crazy!

What is the scene like where you ride?
The scene here in Cleveland isn’t what it used to be but it’s steadily coming back alive. There are now a few sets of amazing trails that exist that are getting better and better each year. Hightower Trails (which might be getting plowed) have been around the longest and they’re amazing, the good thing is that all the locals at any of these trails, or anywhere in Ohio for that matter, are all really nice. You also have Chenga 2, Chenga 57 and Ray’s MTB Park for indoor ramps here, so no complaints on that end. Everybody loves Ray’s lately; it’s an interesting place!

Who was the first pro you met and is there a cool story behind it at all?
Gosh that’s hard to pinpoint exactly who it was, Aaron Bostrom, Billy Delfs or Nate Wessel I think. Bostrom and Delfs used to run these trails near where I grew up called Greenies, I used to go there to watch but I never rode. I was too timid, I just remember being star-struck when I met any pro at that time. Little did I imagine I would shoot photographs with these guys and still be friends with them to this day, so that’s awesome!

How do you feel about BMX now days with all the shit talking, contests on TV, awesome DVDs, etc?
It is what it is, take it or leave it. It’s so awesome how BMX has progressed and I hope to see the industry only get bigger, so more people can continue to make a living off it and do what they love to do.

If you could change anything about BMX, what would you change and why?
The only thing I would like to see is more positivists and less negativity in BMX.

Do you have any good stories involving the cops, security, hookers, midgets, or famous people you can defame?
Does Catfish count as a midget? No, I have way too many stories from Youngstown, OH. When Section 8 Skatepark was around I used to go down there often to hangout, ride, and shoot pics. I would always end up in the mix with 4th Grade, Catfish, Lou Bickle and those guys and I have seen everything under the sun. One time at a Section 8 contest everyone went out to the bar in downtown Youngstown where 4th Grade was working at the time and as the night ended a bunch of BMXer’s got into a fight with some gangsters and they started shooting guns off and everyone scrambled outside the bar to grab cover. Everyone thought someone got shot and it was just nuts. That’s just a tip of the iceberg of stories from Youngstown–just ask Catfish, that’s how and why he started catfishcatfish.com.

Aaron Bostrom- Obviously this is nothing crazy but just a cool shot with awesome colors and Aaron’s one of my favorite riders.

Outside of work and BMX as a whole, what are some things you are into?
The drums, I recently purchased a drum set about 3 months ago and have been having the time of my life with it. It’s the last thing I could see myself doing, which makes it so fun and challenging.

What bands are you into? Any you suggest people to check out?
The list is endless but Modest Mouse is definitely my favorite band. If you like them you definitely need to check out, Cloud Cult. Bob Dylan is up there on my list too- different era, different sound, but his messages in his music transcends all time.

Seen any good riding videos or movies lately?
The latest thing I’ve watched has been Brad Simms Micreation video spot and I’m really psyched on how it turned out and the whole concept of it.

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
I would just like to be thankful for everyday, not take things for granted. Continue contributing my photos to magazines and blogging for EXPN, and hopefully be inspiring to kids through my words and photos, and motivating them to ride bikes or what ever it is they aspire to do because they see it as being fun. Life should be fun!

What do you think you would be doing if you never got involved with bikes?
I would be a photographer, the content would be different of course, but for me, I couldn’t imagine doing some job day after day that I didn’t have a true passion for, bills or not!

How much time do you spend on the computer in a week and what are some websites you are into?
I would say around 30-40 hrs. a week on the computer between work and pleasure, which is ridiculous! Some sites I’m into are Defgrip a whole bunch of photo sites and EXPN of course.

What would you do with the cash if you won the lottery?
Well, first I would have to play the lottery to win. But if I did, I would give it away to friends, family and people I knew that needed it the most.

Kip Williamson- This shot of Kip was taken in Florida and never ran in anything but is still an awesome photo. Kip’s a cool dude and was super fun to hangout with. I like shooting flat and love the positive attitude all flatlanders have.

What is the best advice or quote you have ever heard?
“Dream as though you’ll live forever, live as though you’ll die today.” –James Dean.

What kind of advice do you have for people who want to get into writing/blogging/ photography/ web stuff?
Make sure your extremely passionate and love what it is you want to do. Never quit, be patient and always have other projects and things in the works to fall back on or to clear your mind if you get into a rut or things don’t work out.

Anybody you would like to give a shout out or thanks to?
I would like to say thanks to anyone that’s helped me out, supported me along my journey and allowed me to continue doing what I love, my family, my Dad, Beth, my girlfriend Johanna, EXPN, Johnny Devlin, Dave Jacobs, Aaron Bostrom, Larry Alvarado, Raul Ruiz, Chris Mahaffey, Darren Hendrix, Brock Gomez, Jeff Z, Chad Shackelford, The Leftovers, Justin Simpson, Tony Neyer, Ride UK, Ride US, BMX Plus!, Shine, BMX Union for this interview, and anyone I may have forgotten, the list goes on and on…thanks!

Anything else you would like to add?
Check out my blog on EXPN.com and don’t be afraid to email me and say hello, that or leave some really funny comments!

If you have found this site, then I am willing to bet you have seen at least one of Will’s videos he has filmed or edited. Why? Because his videos are some of the most popular videos out there with the weekly videos for Levi’s or the dvd’s he has made. Will is very talented at what he does and there was a need for an interview. After your done be sure to check out Nine To Five Films

Name:
Will Stroud

Location:
Greensboro, North Carolina

Sponsors:
None

Years Riding:
12

Years filming:
10

When you first got into BMX were you into filming and editing or did that come after?
For the first few years I just rode. Then one day I just randomly picked up my grandma’s old clunker VHS-C camera and brought it to the 401 trails where we rode everyday. I had no clue what I was doing but I would just film all my friends when I was hurt or not riding. Eventually, Doyle got on DK and needed footage for the first DK video “Damn Kids”. So Chris asked me if I could help film for his part. It’s so funny now to watch footage from back in those “good old days”.

Growing up in Ohio I imagine you were riding with Catfish and them at Section 8 or were you in with another crowd?
I actually grew up in Raleigh, NC. I did live in Dayton, OH for a year but my roots are in NC.

Now that your living in North Carolina where are you more commonly riding?
It’s kind of sad to say but I rarely ride when I’m at home. This year I have been traveling like crazy filming with the Levi’s team for the team DVD and the weekly web videos. So I’ve actually ridden more while on trips as of lately. I don’t really push myself to learn new tricks though. I just enjoy nibbling around more than anything.

When you first started riding BMX did you ever you would be making a living off working in the industry?
No way. I had no idea that I would ever have all of these opportunities. It’s pretty sweet to have my dream job!

Being a very busy dude with Levi’s and other video projects, do you find much time to ride?
Like I said before, not really when I’m at home. The closest skatepark to my house is over 100 miles away so it’s not very convenient and I’m not much of a street guy. There’s talk of a public concrete park being built in Greensboro, but I’m not holding my breath.

If you could go on a road trip just to ride, no cameras, what 5 people would you bring, where would you go, and why?
That’s a good question. I would do a trip in an RV and drive all around Germany or Spain with my brother, Chris Doyle, Ryan Barrett, Cory Muth, Steve Buddendeck, and Biz. I know that’s bringing 6 people but that would probably be my dream trip.

You have had the opportunity to travel a lot because of your career, where are some of your favorite places you have been?
Barcelona, Vancouver, New Zealand, Shanghai, and the Philippines.

Where are some places you would really like to go?
Africa, Eastern Europe, Australia, Russia, South America, Thailand, Vietnam, the list could go on forever.

What is one trick you could never get sick of doing?
360s, backflips, or turndowns

What is one trick you get sick of trying to figure out?
Barspins and tailwhips

How do you feel about the current state of BMX, being in the olympics, nearly being removed from the X-Games, kids talking shit on the internet, videos being ripped, just everything in general?
I try not to take BMX too serious. I am happy that I have my place in the industry and I try my best to stay on good terms with everyone. It seems like BMX is changing a lot over the recent years due to the internet. It’s a good thing overall how accessible a mass amount of fresh content is on a daily basis. Of course the bad side would be video piracy and shit talking. I try not to get too involved with the internet though. I do hate the fact that it’s so much harder for BMX companies to justify doing team videos anymore. It costs so much money and it’s way easier just to put out mediocre web videos, but I really like holding a DVD’s packaging and watching videos on a real TV with good sound. I’ll choose quality over quantity any day of the week when it comes to videos. But in general, I think BMX is growing and hopefully the industry will continue to get stronger and allow most brands to stay in business.

If you could change anything about BMX what would you change and why?
Like I said before, I try not to take BMX too serious. I guess it is what it is and I wouldn’t change anything.

Obviously you and Chad Shackelford are the guys behind 9 to 5 films, what are some current projects you guys have going on?
Actually, Chad and I have parted ways and he’s starting his own venture called The Anamorphosis Laboratory. I have continued to run Nine To Five as an individual. We are on good terms but we just decided to do our own things. Chad is still producing Shook and the new Sunday video. I am working on the Levi’s DVD which will premiere at this year’s NORA Cup in Vegas. I am also in charge of producing the Levi’s weekly web video series for Levi.com/BMX and Vitalbmx.com.

How is the Levi’s DVD coming along, I imagine it is hard since you have to take a lot of clips to make the weekly videos for vital and other places?
I am really happy with how the Levi’s DVD is coming along. We found out in January that we had 8 months to film a full length team video to premiere at NORA cup and we have been filming like crazy ever since. I have been working on filming for this DVD full time this year and it’s coming along nicely, but I wish we could have a few more months so we could squeeze some more trips in. But the great thing about the Levi’s DVD is that it will be 100% free! I’m so happy that they decided to make this a free promo and it’s going to be a legit full length team video. My biggest challenge is that I am responsible for producing 40 weekly web videos for Levi’s alongside of the DVD. So I have to be really careful about what clips I use for web and what clips I’m saving for the DVD. The DVD will be 95% exclusive footage that hasn’t been seen on the web and the riding is top notch. The purpose of the weekly web videos is just to have fresh content constantly, but I have been saving the bangers for the DVD. We have a joke going on while on trips after we film a clip – we ask each other if the clip is “theatrical” or “non-theatrical”? Theatrical meaning it would be good enough to save for the DVD or non-theatrical would be a web clip. I have to give Dakota credit for that one!

What are some trips you have been on this year for filming so far?
So far we have done filming in China, Spain, Hawaii, SoCal, NorCal, Vegas, Texas, Woodward, Alabama, Tennessee, the Carolinas, Portland, and Phoenix.

How do you usually go about picking songs for videos, do you have a certain type you look for?
I usually start off by making iTunes playlists of music that I’m into at the time. I think it’s really important to match the soundtrack to the direction of the video. It’s crazy how important a soundtrack is for a video. Usually I spend a few months searching for the right songs that work best in whatever project I’m working on.

Did you go to school at all for filming and editing?
Yes, I went to the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and graduated in 2003 with a BA in Film and Video Production.

Who are your favorite people to film with?
There are so many but I really enjoy filming with Chris Doyle, Ryan Barrett, Corey Martinez, Morgan Wade, Jamie Bestwick, Dave Mirra, Dakota Roche, Nathan Williams, Jeremiah Smith, Jim C., Aaron Ross, Gary Young, Taj, Biz, Josh Harrington, Ryan Nyquist, Corey Bohan, Jim Bauer…..the list goes on…. I mostly just enjoy filming with people that are fun to be around and have a positive attitude in general.

Out of all of the videos you have made, what are some of your favorites?
My favorite video that I’ve done so far would probably be the SYSTEM video and Stock.

Outside of riding and filming what are you up to?
Outside of BMX I’m just enjoying life here in NC with my wife, family, and friends.

I had heard you and your wife were expecting?
Yes, we are excited to become parents this year! We are having a boy and he should be here sometime around August 16th. I am really excited about becoming a father this year. I know I have a lot to learn about being a parent but it will be an adventure…..

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
To be a good father and husband and to continue working in BMX or whatever else makes me happy.

If you could spend the day with anybody, alive, dead, fictitious, who would it be and why?
I’d love to spend a day with “Dude” from The Big Lebowski.

What would you do with the cash if you won the lottery?
I would love to take an insane trip with my closest friends and live it up for a while. But I would want to save most of it and try to make some smart investments.

What kinds of music are you into? Any you would suggest?
I like a really wide spectrum of music. I spend a lot of time on the iTunes store surfing around and finding new music that I’m into. Lately I’ve been listening to a lot of British rock stuff.

What is some of the best advice you have ever been given?
I don’t remember any specific words of advice but my parents always encouraged me throughout childhood that I could do whatever I wanted to do in life if I put my mind to it. They were very supportive of me and my brother getting into BMX and I wouldn’t be where I’m at today without their support.

What kinds of advice do you have for kids just getting into BMX?
Just be yourself and have fun with BMX.

What about advice for people getting into filming and editing?
Learn from your mistakes, ask questions, work hard, and keep shooting.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
My wife Cristi and my son to be, my parents & grandparents, David Stroud, Kathy McGrath at Bird Marketing, Megan & Marisa at Levi’s, Cory Muth, Steve Buddendeck, Chris Doyle, Ryan Barrett, Chad Shackelford, Dave Jacobs, Justin Kosman, Dave Mavro, Ilana Taub at Red Bull, Kyle Carlson, Jim & Nuno at Odyssey, Mark Losey, The Mangler, Jamie Bestwick, Corey Martinez, Morgan Wade, Nathan Williams, Dakota Roche, Brett Walker, Biz, Heath Pinter, Jeremiah Smith, Ronnie B., and everyone else that’s ever helped me out in any way. Sorry to anyone I forgot!

Anything else you would like to say?
Keep it real.

Currently on the road with WeThePeople for the Ride UK Ride To Glory road trip throughout the UK, Sam Lowe is the latest member of the Canadian contingent of the WTP crew. Take a minute and get to know Sam.
–Brian Tunney

Just an F.Y.I, I didn’t do this interview Brian Tunney did!

Name:
Sam Lowe

Age:
22

Years riding:
Since I was 13 or 14.

Sponsors:
Wethepeople, Primo helps me out and Timebomb Distribution.

Setup:
WTP frame, fork, bars and Primo parts

Where are you from?
I’m originally from Halifax, Nova Scotia, currently living in Vancouver, BC.

What do you do for a living?
I work at 3ride BMX Mailorder shop in North Vancouver.

What’s your favorite thing about riding?
Putting on my headphones and hauling ass to work in the morning, or hanging out with some good buddies, cruising around, talking shit, riding around.

What do you do when you’re not riding?
Usually working or hanging out with my girlfriend

What does Wethepeople mean to you?
They’re a bunch of awesome people that make real god bikes. I’m very appreciative of everything WTP has done for me.

For more info, check out www.wethepeople.de

Anthony is another Englander imported into the U.S to ride for a very large list of sponsors. The kid has so much talent it is insane. An anonymous request was made to interview him, and I already wanted to get one, so we got it done. Let him know what you think in the comments.

Name:
Anthony Watkinson

Location:
Liverpool, England

Sponsors:
DK, System Cycles supplies, Maxxis Tires, Etnies, Rockstar Energy Drinks, Aversion , Rampworx Skatepark.

Years Riding:
6-7

Over the last year you really have had some big breaks with DK and your other sponsors, how crazy is it to think about that?
yeah man DK is awesome and its crazy that i am getting to travel so much and meeting new awesome people and riding a bunch!

Speaking of DK, how are things going with them? Any news of video parts, signature parts, trips, anything of that sort going on for you?
DK is going awesome i love being with DK everyone is awesome there, well except mitchell haha!

How about the rest of your sponsors? trips, videos, parts, etc?
well i just got done with a video for vital that should be up soon! and Etnies are doing a trip around the uk which should be awesome!

Last I heard you were living with Catfish, is that still going on or what are you doing now?
yeah when i am in Dayton, Ohio i live with him, he helps me out lots! especially helping me order at restaurants haha

“Contest Season” is coming up fast, do you plan on going to many contests or just being a chiller and filming a bunch?
contest season is coming quick! i am riding nass in a couple of weeks then fly out for dew tour first stop the day after! should be awesome! im real excited! i want to get out to CA and ride with my buddy Kevin Kiraly.

Do you have any web videos in the works at all?
i just finished a web video for vital should be up soon!

Who have you been riding with mostly these days?
i have been home for a little while so i have been riding with my friends Lewis, Zack, Tom! they are awesome =]

I am convinced you have rubber arms and legs, how the hell do you get your inverts and everything so clicked!?
nah sorry no rubber legs for me maybe if i did i wouldnt of twisted my knee today at the park! but i dont know how i do them i guess i just do it! haha

What are some other tricks you have been working on lately?
Quad whips haha! i have been just been having lots of fun lately man progressing in diferent ways 🙂

What trick has given you the most trouble?
well the trick that gave me the most trouble i can actaully do now! it took me about 6 years to learn turndowns haha!

Where are some of your favorite places you have had the chance to ride since you got over here to the U.S?
mesh skatepark is awesome ! and CA there are so many good outdoor parks there!

Where are some places you would like to ride?
Australia!

Do you ever feel like because your sponsored you have a lot of pressure to learn new tricks and do stuff that could get you hurt?
My sponsors don’t put pressure on me to learn new tricks! i learn what i think is going to be fun an feel good to do!

What do you think about the current trend of shit talking on the internet annonymously?
I HATE IT SO MUCH

If you could change anything about BMX what would you change and why?
The shit talking!

What would you be doing if you never got into BMX?
probably working as a carpenter somewhere

What are some things you like to do outside of BMX?
Build ramps and do woodwork! listen to music hang out with friends!

I doubt your working at all right now but what kinds of jobs have you had in the past?
im a fully qualified carpenter and i worked for my dad decorating business! Watkinsons decorators represent! haha

What is one of the craziest experiences in your life time?
Las Vegas was pretty crazy!

If you could have 3 wishes, what would you ask for?
A USA visa
a healed knee and foot
some ice cream right now

What would be the very first thing you would buy if you won the lottery and why?
the best skatepark ever ! for all my friends from around the world to ride it!

What is the alcoholic drink of choice?
Rockstar and Vodka ofcourse 😛

What is one meal you could never get sick of?
Pasta

What are some bands you are into? Any you think people have to check out?
man i listen to so many things! right now in my playlist is kanye west, lost prophets , fat joes new album and Kriss kross hahaha

What are some of your favorite movies?
napolian dynamite, etnies forward, grounded, system

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
A usa visa

What is the key to picking up American chicks?
a english accent works for me haha!

What is the best advice you have ever received?
“dont put yourself down, everyone else will do that for you”

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
thanks so everyone at DK, thanks to pete at etnies , jeana at maxxis, Rockstar and rampworx skatepark, like to thank james hitchox for everything he did for me and also Grampa!

Anything else you would like to say?
KYLE CARLSON KYLE CARLSON KYLE CARLSON! (he asked me to mention him for publicity) 🙂

C.B.C

thanx bmx union

Oh man, where do I start with this guy. Ben is a Minnesota ripper who is super talented and super funny. He has been on the SBC for a while. I usually die laughing everytime I ride with the guy. His girlfriend is on Interbmx more than him and she is pretty damn cool too. You probably are confused by this intro so I guess just check it out and it will make more sense.
Most photos by Ben Austin others by Carrie, and Friemuth

Location:
Crystal, Mn

Sponsors:
Standard Byke Co., Goodtimes Superstore. Underline (BJ SUX!!!)

Years riding the bike:
12 1/2

You have been on Standard for years, when did you get on the team and what are your views on the company as a whole?
Summer of 02 I think. The rollin on the river deal. MN to Louisiana. Very funtrip. I was invited (KP asked me every 2 seconds to come with) haha I was hoping I could get work off for a week. We actually ran in to my boss at some restaurant and I had Rick take care of that!!! I’ve been getting sweet sbc goods since then.

Standard as a whole is awesome. I’ve been riding their frames for over 10 years now. I would still buy them if I had too!!! The team is badass. We all get along good and know how to have a good time (on the bikes and at the bar) The new manufacturing shop is so sick. You can make anything in that place. There is going to be some really good stuff cranking out of there. Rick rules. He puts a lot of time in to standard and it shows. It’s cool to ride for a dude that’s old as fuck and still shreds harder than the young guns!!!

When the hell will there be a Benny P signature frame?
I got a crazy custom frame being built up soon. It’s gonna be dialed. I’ll send pics as soon as I get it.

You get pretty loose on a bike, did you grow up racing or riding trails at all? How did you get this manly style?
I raced maybe 6 times. Won the state qualifier for 15 novice and quit. I used to ride a lot of dirt. I will have some trails in the works at my house very soon. As a kid my dad would let my dig up the yard and he even bought me dirt for jumps. He claims it was for the “garden”. He bought a bunch of wood and helped me build a box jump too. My parents were very supportive so I always had dirt jumps and ramps all over the yard. Plus I was neighbors with Josh Nendza. That definitely helped!!!

The manly style comes from playing sports as a kid, eating cheese burgers, not shaving enough, and trying to boost everything.

Over the years you have had a few video parts and clips in videos, which ones were your favorite?
I like my stuff in Baco 10 and props 57.

How the hell do you go so high? I saw you almost hit your head on the rafters at the contest!
Well, I weigh about 200 pounds more than my bike. I can pump like a mofo.

What are some of your favorite places to ride or places you have had the chance to ride?
4 seasons Milwaukee, undercover, G SHOCK!!!

Who are some of the people you like to ride with and why?
First off, I like to ride with anyone that likes to have a good time while getting shit done.
Jonah Lidberg, He’s original.
Phil Book, He goes high and we do a lot of the same shit.
Nick Palmquist, He always excited to ride anything and he shreds it all.
Tony Mortenson, we both push each other to do bigger 3’s
Josh Nendza, he can do anything he wants, usually first try.
Pretty much all my friends. Its always a good time.

You have some clicked 3 turndowns and superman’s, what are your favorite tricks to throw out?
I usually only do my favorite tricks. 3’s, tables, turndowns, no footed cans, no handers, I keep it pretty simple. I rather go high and make my tricks look good than do a bunch of circus tricks. But I don’t mind to watch the other guys huck it!!!

What is a trick you cannot pull for the life of you?
Tailwhips took me a while to learn. Other than that I don’t try anything too difficult. I’m not sweating any tricks at the moment.

What is your worst riding related injury, I know you got some fake teeth don’t you?
I’ve been KO’d twice. Broke my teeth a few times. Yes I have 4 fake fronts. I have loose rotator cuffs so I’ve popped both shoulders out at least 100 times a piece. Broke my back and my cheekbone. Been pretty lucky. I’ve never been off my bike for more than a few weeks.

Give us a good story about you having a run in with cops, security, or angry people?
I got handcuffed at the u [University of Minnesota] while riding street when I was 16 and put on probation with some community service. I clocked most of my hours of service working on the local bmx track. (and riding it) haha

Why don’t you hit up the dew tour or anything, I figure you would do decent?
I didn’t even make the finals at your contest. Don’t ask me how, I did a pencil to chicken butt and failed to make the cut!!!!! Haha I used to compete more, it was cool to see my friends and meet new people. I rather just session for fun. Although the dew tour set ups look amazing.

Do you have any trips over the summer planned?
none

How about videos, I know you have the one for this, but do you have any others in the works?
I just got a new camera. I have some stuff in the works.

If you could go on a road trip with 5 people, who would you bring, why, and where would you go?
Any five of my friends anywhere would be a blast

What is your all time favorite memory on a bike?
Riding every day till dark after school as a kid.

If you could change anything about BMX what would it be and why?
No more cross dressing riders. Get rid of the shitty companies. Add a little more diversity. Less curb crawlers, more trail style.

Outside of riding what are some things you are into?
Music, video games, computer, filming/editing, hanging with my lady, partying with friends.

Aren’t you finishing up school or something soon?
I’m going to trade school for my job as a Union heat and frost insulator. I got 3 more years of winter classes.

You got a lot of Polish pride, what the hell is so cool about being Polish?
The Sausage, duh

Your lady Carrie seems to spend more time on Interbmx then you, how do you feel about that?
Fine by me. Shits funny. She tortures all the morons on there.

Speaking of her, this might get you in some trouble, any weddings or anything planned?
Maybe next year?

How do you feel about ripping on emo kids on the internet?
Its good in moderation for me. Carrie loves it.

If you could have any super power, what would you choose and why?
Wolverine’s healing ability. I used to have it.

You and Tony Mortenson are good pals, so I know you can drink.. What is the drink of choice?
Bud bottles, Beam and coke

How do you feel about the Minnesota and I guess the Minnesota scene too?
Winter sucks, I’m gonna get a snow bike going someday. most indoor parks suck,(reneGAYed is fun) friends rule, We have a lot of shredders. Overall its good. The other 3 seasons make it worth staying.

What are some bands you are into?
Lots of em. Anything from the beatles to Jedi Mind Tricks. Mostly alternative rock, classic rock and hip hop.

Seen any good movies lately?
I have netflix. I see lots.

If you were to win the lottery what would you do with the cash?
Buy the Metrodome, Give Nate Wessell And Fuzzy a few million to fill it up with goodness.

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
Get the trails rippin. Finish school so I can make the big bucks. Get a hot tub and a trampoline. New car too.

What kind of advice do you have for kids who are getting into BMX?
Have fun. Don’t be afraid to crash. Avoid getting a job till you absolutely have to.

What about kids who want to be as manly as you?
Kids rather look like girls than be manly.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
Carrie, my parents and family, all my friends, Rick & Jess,
Ben Austin Photo

Anything else you would like to say?
ADA

stronger than some from Ben Polaschek on Vimeo.