Amber speaks with Ayesha McGowan, the first African-American woman professional road cyclist. Ayesha shares why she recently decided to step away from racing (for now) and opens up about the shift in autonomy she experienced on the World Tour. She describes how she handles the different pressures and challenges of professional racing, and how she’s using her experience to create positive experiences for up-and-coming athletes. Ayesha talks about Thee Abundance Project, and how she’s building a supportive pipeline for women of color to get into and advance in the sport of cycling. McGowan shares what has worked for her to cultivate connection and camaraderie among athletes in the programs that comprise Thee Abundance Project. Ayesha offers advice on how to find the right coach, reflecting on her own experiences and the importance of the coach-athlete relationship. She highlights the role of community and support in her career, including the role her friends have played in helping her make the most of her neurospicy strengths.

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Mentioned in this episode:

• Ayesha McGowan on Instagram - @ayesuppose
• A Quick Brown Fox - https://aquickbrownfox.com
• Thee Abundance Project - https://www.aquickbrownfox.com/thee-abundance-project-1
• Do Better Together - https://www.aquickbrownfox.com/do-better-together
• The Black Foxes - https://www.theblackfoxes.com/