Ep.070 - Yeti Legends: Joe Lawwill

Countdowntopodcast.com zirkeloptics.com mtnops.com pendulumthreads.com - COUNTDOWNTO for 15% off trailsalliance.org/donate-join/ - Donate to Mt. Konocti MTB Trails Joe Lawwill has lived nearly every chapter of mountain biking's history—and in this episode, he takes us behind the scenes of it all. As a former World Champion, X Games medalist, Yeti Ambassador, Shimano's longtime event and sponsorship leader, coach, trail builder, and product developer, Joe shares what it's been like watching the sport evolve from its earliest days in Marin County to the modern bikes we ride today. We also dive deep into the incredible legacy of Joe's father, **Mert Lawwill**—the legendary motorcycle racer, star of *On Any Sunday*, Mountain Bike Hall of Fame inductee, and engineering mind behind some of mountain biking's earliest suspension designs. Joe opens up about recently losing his father, the challenge of preserving that legacy, and the life lessons Mert left behind. Beyond the history, this conversation is packed with wisdom on longevity, discipline, and staying passionate for decades. Joe explains why he doesn't rely on motivation, why he believes in "sticking to the program," how chasing constant improvement has shaped every area of his life, and why reducing stress may be one of the most underrated keys to living well. Whether you're heading to the 2026 Yeti Gathering or simply trying to become a better athlete, parent, or person, this episode is a reminder that greatness isn't built overnight—it's built through curiosity, consistency, and a lifelong commitment to getting just a little better every day.