The Domestiques

Peaks Challenge is the talk of the town and the talk of The Domestiques. The team of Hollywood and Matilda conquered the epic climbs of Australia’s most gruelling community ride and are joined by Mark O’Brien who set an amazing new course record completing the 235km distance in 6 hours 40 minutes. How did they do it? Hear of the tall tales of triumph, heartbreak and heroics. And Tadej Pogačar does it again after producing another superhuman performance despite spectacularly crashing on the white dusty roads of the Strade Bianche. And the apprentice took on the master in the women’s race - Demi Vollering taking on her ex-coach Anna van der Breggen. Whether you’re gearing up for Peaks 2026 or just love a good cycling story this episode is a must listen!

The Domestiques are thrilled to welcome popular British television journalist and presenter Orla Chennaoui to the microphone. A woman who has a unique zest and passion for world cycling and who has opened doors for others to follow their dreams as broadcasters. Orla describes her television journey, the battles along the way and overcoming personal career challenges. Don’t miss this energised and supercharged episode with Orla.

A special treat in this episode of The Domestiques.Liz Hepple is a pioneer in women’s cycling who raced in Europe, took on the world, and triumphed!It’s been almost 40 years since Liz competed in the women’s edition of the Tour de France which was held concurrently with the men.It was a primitive time but a moment in history which opened doors for others to follow in Liz’s footsteps.While it’s thought Cadel Evans was the first Australian to stand on the winner’s podium at Le Tour, it was in fact Liz after finishing third in 1988.Hear the story of an unsung hero of Australian cycling.

The Domestiques are joined by an Olympic gold medalist, a track world champion, a Giro pink jersey wearer and a Director Sportif to one of the world’s biggest World Tour teams. But Brett Lancaster gave away a seemingly glamorous life in Europe to live a simple existence in his hometown of Shepparton, Victoria.Brett shares his thoughts on the direction of his former employer Ineos Grenadiers, the signing of Caleb Ewan and reflects on a brilliant career and why he returned home.It’s fascinating listening in the career and life of an unheralded Aussie cycling champion.

A Warrny debrief & Three Peaks preview with Mark O’Brien.In this episode of The Domestiques, Hollywood and Tils catch up with former Melbourne to Warrnambool champion Mark O’Brien about his day in the winning break. We dive into his power numbers and nutrition, as well as his plan to break his own record at next month’s Peaks Challenge by Bicycle Network.This is a long chat with a a true legend of Australian cycling.

Fergus Browning is a star of the future. The 21 year old, who thrilled a global television audience at the Tour Down Under, joins The Domestiques in this special episode. His performance has attracted worldwide interest and attention, and it won’t be long before the Melbourne protege lines up as a regular on the World Tour. Fergus reminds us of his past, his present and outlines his future ambitions. The team looks back on a huge weekend of racing at the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race. Also, why is Hollywood feeling anxious ahead of this weekend’s Melbourne to Warrnambool Classic? All is revealed in The Domestiques.

In this episode of The Domestiques the team is joined by Matt White, the head honcho behind the shakers and movers at Jayco-AlUla. We ask the hard questions. What’s the real story behind Caleb Ewan’s departure? What plans are there for Ben O’Connor, Michael Matthews and Luke Plapp? Is The Pog beatable? We look back on the TDU and look ahead to the Cadel Evans one day classic. It’s a deep in-depth discussion with Australia’s most highly decorated Sporting Director.

We did things a bit different today. Tils was on the road and documented what has become the best day in Australian cycling each year. On the road interviews with some of Australian cycling's most prominent people.

Check out Marsh for all your insurance needs. The Tour Down Under reaches the pointy end yet only a handful of seconds separate the top riders. The Domestiques unpack the Queen stage on Willunga Hill. The big talking point is Caleb Ewan’s move to Ineos Grenadiers. Meantime, Matilda shares her experiences from the second edition of the RADL GVL despite losing some skin. Hollywood talks up the number of selfies he’s taken during the TDU. And Tomo plays a straight bat and chooses not to tip the 2025 overall winner. Banter at its best on The Domestiques. Use code bangbang20 for 20% OFF Black Sheep (valid until Jan 26th at 11:59pm)

Get 20% OFF Black Sheep with the code bangbang20 at blacksheep.cc (until 11:59pm 26th January) We're live at the Adelaide Hilton for Stage 3 of the TDU. Not only do we discuss the excitement surrounding the Tour Down Under, but we're joined by special guest Mark O'Brien. We dive into Mark's journey in cycling, his coaching endeavors, reflections on his career, insights on current riders and tactics, and the challenges faced in competitive cycling. The conversation also touches on the evolution of the sport and the upcoming stages of the TDU. Oh, and Hollywood bitches about gravel racing.

Use code bangbang20 for 20% OFF Black Sheep Sam Welsford is the toast of the sprinters at the Tour Down Under and The Domestiques highly praise his courage from stage 2. Lots of fun, banter and entertainment in today’s episode including Hollywood’s date with the local laundromat while Tomo exposes his silky, smooth golden tones that would make Phil Liggett blush. Don’t miss the fun of the Tour on The Domestiques.

Use code bangbang20 for 20% OFF Black Sheep We wrap up Stage One of the TDU as Sam Welsford puts on a masterclass. We also talk about sports nutrition with Dr. Gemma Sampson. A crucial topic, especially in the heat of Adelaide at this time of year. We talk what to eat, and what not to consume if you want to improve your progress. So many questions from Hollywood who’s preparing for his own personal racing goals.

Use code bangbang20 for 20% OFF at ⁠Black Sheep We’re joined by former World Tour rider Georgie Howe and cycling coach to the World Tour and the next generation of stars Nick Owen. We breakdown what it takes to be a professional cyclist, review the Aussie women’s performances and preview the men’s stages and pick our favourites to take out the men’s 25th Orche jersey bangbang20 20% off Black Sheep Cycling. The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep, Marsh Insurance, Texco Construction and Transport Mutal Credit Union.

Use code bangbang20 for 20% OFF at Black Sheep It was Super Sunday in Adelaide and The Domestiques were in cycling heaven with so much activity. From the completion of the Tour Down Under (women’s edition) to the thrilling racing at the ProVelo Super League, there’s so much to discuss in this episode. And we did. The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep, Marsh Insurance, Texco Construction and Transport Mutal Credit Union.

A note: We apologise for today's audio - a few mishaps, which will be addressed tomorrow. Sara Carrigan confirmed her place in Australian cycling folklore when winning the gold medal in the Road Race at the 2004 Athens Olympics. The Domestiques welcome one of only two women to have achieved such an honour. Sara explains her involvement at the 2025 Tour Down Under. And while an absent Hollywood (mixing with the VIPs) is noticeable, Sarah joins in to unpack a thrilling stage decided on the summit at Willunga Hill. We are live and on location at Australia’s premier cycle tour.

The World Tour has officially begun with a bang and we don’t just mean Hollywood is in town! Stage 1 of the Santos Tour Down didn’t go to script. We break down the winners and losers, preview the queens stage, Tommo is off the back and we give you the inside scope on Caleb Ewan, will we ever see him again in racing? Massive thank you to our partners Black Sheep Cycling, Marsh insurance, Texco construction and Transport Mutal Credit Union!

Perth put on a terrific show by hosting the Road Cycling National Championships for the first time. Hear the opinions of The Domestiques as they unpack a weekend to remember in the WA capital city. And although former national champion Sarah Gigante was a notable omission following surgery, she too shares her thoughts on how the titles can improve in future years. We chew over the fat as we look ahead to what promises to be a fascinating edition of the Tour Down Under. An entertaining edition of The Domestiques is here.

It’s a brand new year and The Domestiques delivers the ultimate preview to the Australian Road Championships in Perth. Cycling’s “Mr WA” Matt Poyner tells us why the 2025 Road Nats will be special in every way. His local knowledge of the spectacular city course is one reason why cycling supporters should be excited. It’s a terrific way to kick off the new season.

The story of Rachel Neylan leaving her home in Sydney to pursue a career as a professional cyclist on the World Tour is fascinating. She shares the path taken in creating a brilliant career and the sacrifices made in this fascinating episode of The Domestiques. We also look back on the year that was in our final episode of 2024. The many highs, the not-so-many lows and everything in between. It’s been a terrific year of growth for The Domestiques and we wouldn’t be in such a high without our sponsors (Marsh insurance + Black Sheep) and our loyal listeners. Thank you and see you in 2025!

It’s Hollywood and Tils in the studio today to catch up on some Australian stalwart events: the Tour de Bright and the Great Victorian Bike Ride. Hollywood breaks down his questionable diet and race report from Bright, whilst Tils opens up on how shes feeling post-diagnosis and working the Great Victorian Bike Ride. Plus the latest news in global cycling. Thanks to Black Sheep Performance Apparel and Marsh Insurance

Is cycling in Australia in a good place? The Domestiques ask the question to Graham Seers, a former professional cyclist and Olympian, and now General Manager, Club Development for AusCycling. All is not what it may seem.

Matilda shares her experiences competing in Australia’s premier gravel race and listen to why Sarah Gigante chooses to race off-road during the off season. And also we discuss some big life events. We also go into the salaries of the big-name professionals, the transfer market is heating up, the 2025 Tour de France is released and the farewell race for Mark Cavendish. It’s all here on The Domestiques.

In this episode of The Domestiques, a real treat! Acclaimed Eurosport commentator, Carlton Kirby, is our special guest. Hear what makes him tick. His deep love and passion for world cycling. Why he is so emotional when calling races? And there’s his unique commentary style that draws a beloved global listening audience. So many stories. So many anecdotes. Some yarns have never been told. Carlton Kirby uncovered on The Domestiques. Don’t miss it!

The Domestiques are thrilled to be joined by EF-Education Pro Cycling personality Harry Sweeny, on his YouTube cooking channel, living with Autism, and being a part of the last Golden Development era in Australian Cycling. And what really happened to force the cancellation of the Bowral Classic? The Domestiques is in support of Movember, with Black Sheep Cycling donating 1% of all their sales to increasing the awareness of Men's Mental Health and research into cancer. Thank you also to Marsh insurance. To find Harry's Youtube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@HarrySweeny98 And Movember https://au.movember.com/support-us/challenges/dirty-warrny-ride

Today's episode is a very special one. Not only do we wrap up the final Monument of 2024, but it's also the first in a series of episodes partnering with Movember. Suicide is the leading cause of death in men aged 15 to 54 years. In Australia, 3 in 4 suicides are men. 1 in 5 Aussie men will receive a diagnosis of prostate cancer in their lifetime. Testicular cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men aged between 15 and 34 in Australia. Here at the Domestiques, we want to help do something about this, and we are partnering with Movember for the next month. Check on your mates, check yourself; for more information, click the link below. Don't forget that Black Sheep is now donating 1% of all proceeds to Movember as part of their Do Good Program. https://au.movember.com/support-us/challenges/dirty-warrny-ride

The latest episode of The Domestiques is dedicated to the UCI Road World Championships and the performances of the Australian podium success at Zürich 2024. The team dissects the gold medal ride from the man, the myth, the legend - Tadej Pogačar. And we haven’t forgotten the outstanding year enjoyed by Grace Brown. Three-time Australian national champion Luke Plapp joins us from his Girona base where he reveals his future plans and ambitions. It’s a packed episode from the best podcast dedicated to world cycling. The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep Cycling and Marsh Insurance

Special Offer: Use the code ATB15 for 15% off to the United Energy Around the Bay https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/rides-and-events/around-the-bay/ The Domestiques pays tribute to the Aussie domination at La Vuelta. Ben O'Connor, Jay Vine, and Kaden Groves all appeared on the podium of the final Grand Tour of the year as Primoz Roglic silenced the doubters by claiming La Vuelta number 4. The team discussed the inspirational endurance journey of Lachlan Morton who is attempting to circumnavigate Australia on a bicycle. And the women’s peloton is in for a shakeup as the end of the season nears. Plenty to digest. Lots to unpack as the Aussies take centre stage in this episode of The Domestiques. The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep Cycling and Marsh Insurance - and Bicycle Network.

"Let's go you good thing!” That’s the call as The Domestiques urge on Aussie hope Ben O’Connor to victory at La Vuelta. With a brutal week remaining, and the shadow of Primoz Roglic looming, the team assesses what may or may not happen. Tils shares her debut commentary television experience to a national audience. You may be surprised what goes on behind the scenes in the wee-small hours. And “Hollywood” has his say at where the return of the Herald-Sun Tour should be held in 2025. Lots to unpack in the latest edition of The Domestiques!

This week on The Domestiques the team is graced by the appearance of Australia’s super coach, Tim Decker. The driving force behind the world record and Olympic gold medal performances in the men’s teams pursuit in Paris. Tim explains how he drives his riders to success. What are his methods, secret, skill set and the future? The Matthew Richardson defection is explored and can Ben O’Connor wear red all the way to the Vuelta finish line in Madrid? A fascinating episode of the world’s best cycling podcast. The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep Cycling and Marsh Insurance

We catch-up with former Australian Champion and Lidl Trek rider Brodie Chapman to break down the TDFF. The highs and lows of Le Tour, SD-Worx tactics, and what is being labled as the greatest GC stage of all time. We talk about the progression in women's cycling and the challenge of racing the Summer of Cycling. All that and more in a special edition of The Domestiques. The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep Cycling and Marsh Insurance

We cross live to the Tour de France Femmes with Team Jayco-AlUla rider Georgie Howe on the ground. We unpack the opening stages and preview what's to come. We chat yellow cards, no radios and how can any of the teams unseed Demi Vollering, all that and more with a special bonus mid-week episode! The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep Cycling and Marsh Insurance

Tour de France Femmes starts for the women and we have 12 representing Australia and New Zealand. We introduce the term Raygun and it's new meaning as well as break down the favourites, the stage hunters and the sprinters, as well as review the early stages from the Netherlands back to France. Like share subsbribe and tell your mates - #watchlefemmes The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep Cycling and Marsh Insurance

The Olympic Games road races have been an outstanding success. The drama, the crowds, the colour, the brilliant course, the winners. The Domestiques unpack a wonderful weekend in Paris which showcased world cycling at its very best. Paris will be a hard act to follow but for Remco Evenepoel and Kristen Faulkner, the memories of their gold medal performances will last a lifetime. The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep Cycling and Marsh Insurance

The Domestiques welcomes the hottest property in world cycling! Jonas Abrahamsen captured the imagination of a global audience for his aggressive approach at the Tour de France. The Norwegian wore the polka dot jersey as best climber for 11 days. He even enjoyed a stint in the green jersey. He explains how he credits his newfound success to a major diet overhaul. The Domestiques also pay tribute to Grace “Golden” Brown after her incredible Time Trial performance. You won’t want to miss this centenary edition of The Domestiques. Raise the bat, we turn 100 episodes! The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep Cycling and Marsh Insurance

The Domestiques welcome Australia’s “voice of Le Tour” Matt Keenan, as he reviews and reflects on the best Tour de France in modern history. The highs, the lows, the personalities, the superstar riders, and the losers. After claiming a third overall victory and securing a rare Giro/Tour double, Tadej Pogačar has entered a new stratosphere of greatness. So where to now for Jonas Vingegaard and Remco Evenepoel? Hear Keeno’s expert thoughts as the panel unpacks a three week odyssey which truly captured a global television audience in 2024. The Domestiques are still on a high and who knows when they might come down. The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep Cycling and Marsh Insurance

The Domestiques welcomes a genuine Aussie legend. John Trevorrow has been heavily involved in cycling in Australia all his life. The man nicknamed “Iffy” is responsible for organising many iconic domestic events and converting non-cycling fans to the sport he loves including big financial hitters. In this episode he shares his experiences as a champion racer in an era when smoking cigarettes was common practice. John is also excited at the current crop of superstars doing the rounds in the Tour de France. Don’t miss this fascinating insight into John Trevorrow who represents the true fabric of Aussie cycling.

While the podium appears to be decided at the Tour de France, The Domestiques examine the events that might unfold in the brutal stages of the third and final week. Will the “The Pog Show” continue or will others be given an opportunity to enjoy some time under the French Summer sun? It’s their last chance! The team also pays tribute to Aussie Neve Bradbury’s historic podium place finish at the women’s Giro d’Italia. So much cycling goodness and very few ads. Just the way you want it. The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep and Marsh Insurance

The Domestiques brings you a very special interview with Allan Peiper, UAE Team Emirates Race Analyst and form Sports Director. As the Tour de France heads into the Pyrenees and Tadej Pogacar chases a third overall victory, Allan Peiper expresses his concern for a rider he mentored for many years. Allan says The Pog may be “burning too many matches” and fears he may be overrun by the rising form of Danish rival Jonas Vingegaard. It’s a fascinating insight on how the 2024 edition might pan out. Hear the thoughts of one of world cycling’s most respected voices. Only on The Domestiques.

The Tour de France has enjoyed its most exciting first week in recent memory. What have we learned after the first nine days and what might be expected before the final stage time trial finish in Nice? Will the Pogacar and Vingegaard battle reignite or will Remco reach a level the Belgian has never been before? In the latest episode of The Domestiques the team unpacks the many highs, the few lows and the twists and turns that have made the 2024 TdF edition one to remember. Listen up and tune into the world’s best cycling podcast! The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep Cycling and Marsh Insurance

Sir Mark Cavendish, at 39 years old, has become the most winningest Tour de France rider, taking the record and his 35th Tour de France stage. We are joined by one of the best lead out men in the World Greg Henderson, to break down another historic day at the 111th Tour de France. This podcast is powered by Marsh Insurance and Black Sheep.

The Tour de France has kicked off with a bang! And The Domestiques are on location in Italy for the Grand Départ. We analyse the first heat-dominated weekend of drama on the roads and excitement in the crowd. With the Olympics around the corner Australia’s medal hopes rest on the shoulders of Luke Plapp and Ruby Roseman-Gannon. The man responsible for guiding our cyclists to triumph is Australia’s head coach Nick Owen who joins us and provides an insight on his riders’ Parisian preparations. Forza Italia! Vive Le Tour! Only on The Domestiques. The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep Cycling, and Honan Insurance Group.

The most anticipated race of the year, the 111th Tour de France. The big six are all lining up and we're not just talking about the six Australians. Join us over the next three weeks from Florence to Nice, as we cover the highs and lows, the winners, losers and jersey wearers. Get set for the greatest sporting event of the year! The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep Cycling, Honan Insurance Group, Ord Minnet and Pillar Performance.

Scott Tindal is a performance nutrition coach with 20 years of experience working with pro and amateur athletes. He has a Masters degree in sports medicine and a post-graduate diploma in performance nutrition. His also the founder of a new nutrition app called ‘Fuel In’ and is offering Domestiques listeners 20% off, use the code CART20 at www.fuelin.com.

The latest episode of The Domestiques features our very own. We hear from a modest Matilda Reynolds who, this week, rubbed shoulders with the big hitters at the Tour de Suisse. Hear her stories as she shared the road with cycling’s elite. At a time when Tils predicted her best days were behind, the birthday girl is still punching well above. Don’t miss The Domestiques with Hollywood + Tils. The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep Cycling, Pillar Performance, Honan Insurance Group, and Ord Minnet.

After crashing out of a race in Spain which almost ended his career, Canberra’s Jay Vine is determined to make a full recovery and return to the winner’s podium before too long. Hear how the former TDU champion and multiple Grand Tour stage winner has been supported by his team UAE and pregnant wife. It’s an incredible journey of hardship but Jay is confident happier days are not far away. Also, Matilda makes an exclusive announcement. It’s huge news! You won’t hear it anywhere else. With the TdF just weeks away, The Domestiques is compulsive listening. The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep Cycling, Honan Insurance Group, and Ord Minnet.

The Domestiques welcomes a former elite Aussie professional rider who’s making a fist of his role as a Director Sportif for one of the world’s biggest teams. Zak Dempster called the shots inside the Ineos-Grenadiers team car at the Giro d’Italia and triumphed after guiding Geraint Thomas to a place on the podium in Rome. Hear how Zak sacrificed a position to continue developing the cycling scene in Australia to pursue an ambition with his latest employer. Exclusive listening only on The Domestiques. The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep Cycling, Honan Insurance Group, and Ord Minnet. Show Notes: 00:00 The Transition: From Professional Cyclist to Director Sportive 09:00 Team Selection and the Role of a Director Sportive 13:30 The Future of Australian Cycling 20:30 The Journey of a Professional Cyclist 21:00 The Dominance of Pogacar and Team Strategy 23:30 Pogacar's Double and the Future of Cycling 25:30 INEOS Grenadiers and the Tour de France Selection 27:00 The Resilience of Egan Bernal and the Impact of Injuries 29:00 The Role of a Sports Director and the Future of Zak Dempster 33:30 Challenges and Changes in Professional Cycling

Black Sheep are giving away $20K in prizes as part of their 10th Anniversary. Enter to be in the draw. https://au.blacksheep.cc/pages/anniversary-giveaway End of the Giro and we have better Audio!!! Tadej Pogačar is the toast of the Giro d’Italia and of world cycling. In this week’s edition of The Domestiques we compare The Pog with some of the sport’s legends. He ticks all the boxes and is the complete package for global popularity and as an elite athlete. Can he achieve the rare Giro/TdF double? Tune in for your weekly fix of the world’s best cycling podcast.

In the latest episode of The Domestiques, a special interview with a special human being. Michael “Bling” Matthews reveals his deep love and passion for the sport that has given the Aussie a career filled with joy. Listen to the way he shares his admiration and respect for good friend Tadej Pogacar and the way he explains the shift in modern methods needed to prepare for big races. You may be surprised at Bling’s thoughts on producers of cycling documentaries which go “behind-the-scenes” of major cycle tours. Is it all a beat-up? So much cycling Giro goodness in The Domestiques.

What goes on inside the inner sanctum of the Giro? In this week’s episode of The Domestiques our guest is respected Aussie commissarie Greg Griffiths who describes what it takes to be among the UCI judging panel at Italy’s Grand Tour. As for the alleged claims of Pogacar being suspended for wearing incorrect clothing? The truth is revealed here. It’s a behind-the-scenes edition of The Domestiques.

The Giro is underway and the “Pink” Grand Tour is already turning into The Pog show. But for how long can world cycling’s most likeable superstar sustain his winning form? The Domestiques analyse the fortunes of the riders chasing overall glory. The women of the pro-peloton have entertained us at La Vuelta Femenina and wait till you hear Hollywood’s latest rant. Ouch! It’s unparalleled listening on The Domestiques. The Domestiques is presented by Black Sheep Cycling, Honan Insurance Group, and Ord Minnet.