Dirk Belling was once a cyclist and was one of the first generation of MTB journalists in Germany at BIKE in the early 90s. He co-founded the German MOUNTAINBIKE and then built up the European marketing for Sram/Rockshox. With his agency (360 Grad Brand Coaching), he now coaches companies in the bike business. He knows God and the world of the MTB scene and this is reflected in the selection of guests on his newly launched podcast "The Brand Explorer". In the latest episode #012, BIKE editor-in-chief Henri Lesewitz was a guest. You can listen to the podcast episode entitled "The Bike Reporter - experience and share pure freedom" on various platforms here: www.the-brand-explorer.com
>> to the podcast episode with Henri Lesewitz on Spotify
Dirk Belling: "I want to be a curious listener rather than a debater."
BIKE: The podcast format is all the rage at the moment. Why do you think that is?
Dirk Belling: Podcasts are an exciting format for me because I can simply have and share conversations with interesting people all over the world. Podcasts, whether for entertainment or further education, have become the new radio for many people - much more focussed on the topics that interest them personally. Especially in times of corona, this has become even more important.
What makes your podcast different from the many other cycling podcasts?
I want to be a curious listener, not an analytical discussant, and use my questions to encourage guests to share more exciting background information and personal stories. My focus is on the person, their passion, relationships and experiences with the specific brand. In Henri's case, this is his path to journalism, adventure racing, his column and BIKE Magazine.
What motivated you to create the podcast?
Two things. I wanted to learn something new in 2021 and keep in touch with all the great people I've met over the last 20 years through cycling - even without the BIKE Festival on Lake Garda and Eurobike. I'm still at the beginning and am learning a lot of new things, surprisingly also about all my guests that I've known for a long time. It was the right decision.
