In this episode of The Stable Cyclist Podcast, Lifetime Grand Prix rider Zach Calton joins JP for an honest conversation about stepping away from professional cycling—and what it took to find his way back. Zach reflects on leaving the pro ranks to work full time, the pull that eventually brought him back to racing full time, and the difficult stretch that followed. From a brutal Cape Epic to a tough Unbound, Zach walks through a season that didn’t go to plan and how learning to laugh through the lows became part of the process.

The conversation centers on the turning point in June of 2025, when Zach hit the reset button, changed how he was approaching the sport, and went on a tear through the rest of the season—ultimately earning his way back into the Lifetime Grand Prix. We talk about what actually changed, how perspective reshaped performance, and what it means to rebuild confidence after public setbacks. The episode wraps with one of the most entertaining Random Fire segments yet, as Zach’s analytical sense of humor and easygoing vibe shine through.

If you’d like to ask JP a question for an upcoming Ask JP Anything episode, send him a DM on instagram @thestablecyclist or send an email to thestablecyclist@gmail.com

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Mental Health Advocacy - Go4Graham - https://www.go4graham.org/

Resources: 988 Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/

International Bipolar Foundation: https://ibpf.org/

National Association for Mental Illness: https://www.nami.org/