The Two Johns Podcast has been broadcast since 2007, and I have been listening to it since mid-2008.

They describe the podcast as like the conversation in the car between two guys driving back from a race. It focuses on pro and amateur racing, the fine details of components and bike mechanics, as well as the particulars of style, bike etiquette and bike culture.

Apart from the odd product review, there is virtually no sponsorship. John G would regularly mention his pal Kevin Livingston’s Pedal Hard coaching business, which became an ironic plug- one of the many in-jokes of the podcast. The Two Johns do the podcast first and foremost for themselves, which gives it its unique character. But will the introduction of products for sale (Two Johns The Coffee, and Two Johns The T-Shirts) compromise their uncompromising style?

[edit - 2011] Sponsorship has now crept into this podcast, but not to its detriment. The listener feedback of the week prize is a seamless part of the show. Sure there are T-Shirts and coffee, but they’re plugged in a lighthearted way. Still listening to, and enjoying this one.

The listener feedback segment sets it apart from other podcasts. The Johns read out the emails, which must adhere to three main rules: they should be brief, they should include a question, and the emailer should make up a nickname for themselves. Making the most of the new media concept, the listeners participate in the show and achieve their own fifteen minutes of fame or, in the case of emailers like Fun Run Robbie and the Rasta Roadie, a more enduring reputation.

The Johns love road racing (PRO and amateur), glasses over straps (and other style points) and cyclocross. They hate recumbulators, race-facing, bibs over jersey, and jogging in place. If you ride road, and can invest a bit of time to get into the banter, it’s one of the best podcasts out there.

Key words:
elitism
quality
kaibosh
‘yay bonay’ (spelling variable)

Links
Podcast feed
Two Johns Blog