From the heart of Hattiesburg’s Longleaf Trace, Jed Darby has built more than a bike shop—he’s built a movement. The Cajun-born runner-turned-cyclist/coach shares how early boxing shaped his endurance mindset, why he qualified for Boston (and Kona) then chose the work over the spotlight, and what he learned from coaching greats like Rick Crawford. We dig into the science—zone 2, stress-adapt-recover, fit and position—and the culture: Tuesday Night Worlds, true no-drop group rides, Hub City Velo, and why community beats ego every time. Plus, the story behind Jed’s Perfect Bikes & Brew (yes, those protein balls), and how a welcoming space can turn weekend riders into lifelong athletes. If you love endurance, mentorship, and Mississippi grit, this one’s for you.

Takeaways

Jed Darby emphasizes the importance of community in cycling.
He transitioned from boxing to cycling, showcasing a unique journey.
Jed's competitive spirit has led to numerous accomplishments in endurance sports.
Coaching plays a crucial role in developing athletes' potential.
The bike shop serves as a hub for local cyclists and fosters community engagement.
Training dynamics and understanding the science behind endurance are vital for success.
Jed believes in the balance of talent and hard work in sports.
He highlights the evolution of cycling technology and its impact on performance.
A strong foundation in training is essential for long-term success.
Jed reflects on his personal achievements and the joy of competition.

Chapters
00:00
Building a Community Through Endurance Sports

02:36
The Journey into Endurance Sports

05:06
From Boxing to Cycling: A Unique Path

08:41
Competitive Achievements and Personal Growth

13:05
Coaching and Influencing Future Champions

23:10
Golf Coaching Insights

24:50
Jed's Journey in the Car Business

29:30
Transition to the Bike Shop

30:41
Building a Community Hub

32:30
Cycling Events and Community Engagement

36:57
The Dynamics of Group Rides

39:16
Reflections on Competitive Racing

42:41
The Thrill of Competition

44:20
Old School vs. New School Athletes

47:21
The Importance of Grassroots Development

48:26
Cultural Differences in Sports

49:45
The Science of Training and Performance

55:33
Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts

01:04:32
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Episode 25: Where Community Rides Begin:...