We liked it so much that we sponsored the company.
As committed motorcycling enthusiasts, we can't get enough of MotoPod, one of the original and best motorcycle racing podcasts now approaching its 750th episode. Co-hosted by racing superfans Richard Jowitt and Jim McDowell, it covers motorcycle racing, Superbikes and MotoGP. The show features news, race reviews, opinions and interviews with the great and the good within the motorcycle racing community. Recent episodes include reviews of MotoGP race weekends at the Buddh circuit in India and Motegi in Japan. 2023 has also been busy with rider interviews at World Superbikes, British Superbikes and Moto America. Rich was even able to talk with Silverstone's Circuits MD Stuart Pringle ahead of the MotoGP in August.
Roadskin is proud to sponsor MotoPod, and we want to tell you all about it. To that end, we nicked the interview seat and grilled co-host Rich Jowitt about this special motorbike podcast.
Hi Rich, what is MotoPod, and how did you get involved?
MotoPod is a podcast entirely dedicated to Moto GP and motorcycle racing all over the world. It started in 2006, so it was probably one of the first podcasts to focus on motorbike racing. I began listening in 2012/2013 when I was doing a lot of travelling to Holland and spending a lot of time hanging around in airports - I got into podcasts at that stage.
Not including myself, there have been 12 hosts since the show started. Occasionally, a host will drop out for one reason or another, and they shout out to the listenership to see if anyone wants to step up and take part as a co-host. The beauty of the show is that professional journalists never host it; rather, we are all just very enthusiastic amateurs who like to talk bikes and racing, much as you might do over a pint with your friends down the pub.
I joined as a host around three years ago and am based in the UK, whereas my co-host, Jim McDowell, is based in Ohio. We generally put out one show a fortnight, but this alters according to how many races occur over the main racing season. As MotoGP, in particular, gets bigger, we find ourselves doing weekly shows as more and more racing takes place on consecutive weekends. We focus primarily on the MotoGP championship as that has always been the show's basis. Still, we are doing all we can to increase our coverage of the World and British/American Superbike championships.
Where is the MotoPod audience?
All over the world, really, mostly centred around Western Europe, North America and Australia. We have an army of loyal listeners who have been with us for years and years, despite the podcast market becoming more crowded. Motorcycle racing and road riding is a close-knit community, so everyone is welcome, and we value the support and feedback from every listener.
What motorcycle do you ride?
I currently own a Suzuki SV1000S. I’ve never competed on track myself, but my co-host Jim raced in the National Series in the States in his younger years, so he brings his unique perspective to the show when it comes to being in the heat of battle on track.
Is motorcycle safety a big issue for MotoPod?
Safety is paramount in motorcycle racing, as it is in road riding. Most of our audience rides on the roads, and many participate in track days. A few will undoubtedly race themselves, so there's a significant crossover between the racing and road-riding communities. I typically wear armoured jeans on the bike rather than leather, so it's fantastic to be getting support from Roadskin motorcycle clothing and growing that relationship.
What's the next big thing for MotoPod?
We are always looking to grow the show, attract new listeners and gain more Patreons, so Roadskin's support is invaluable. I am very pleased to say we will be at the MotoGP Grand Prix in Qatar in November at the Lusail International Circuit outside of Doha. We'll be doing interviews with riders and team personnel, so it promises to be a busy weekend - something we want to do more of in 2024 and beyond.
How can I listen to MotoPod?
You can listen and subscribe here: MotoPod (motopodcast.com)
You can also find us on the following socials (please subscribe to the MotoPod channels):-
X: @MotoPod
Insta: @official_motopod
