Ep.068 - Yeti Legends: Warren Kniss

yeticycles.com/en-us/ambassadors/warren-kniss Countdowntopodcast.com zirkeloptics.com mtnops.com pendulumthreads.com - COUNTDOWNTO for 15% off trailsalliance.org/donate-join/ - Donate to Mt. Konocti MTB Trails Former Yeti Cycles racer and ambassador Warren Kniss joins us to share the side of chasing a dream that most people never see. Long before the podiums, sponsors, and race weekends, Warren was balancing a full-time job, college, and self-funded racing—all while refusing to give up on the sport he loved. In this episode, we dive into what it really takes to pursue a passion without putting the rest of life on hold. Warren opens up about juggling responsibilities, learning discipline through mountain biking, dealing with comparison, and finding confidence even when others had advantages he didn't. We also talk about why success isn't defined by podiums, but by the people you meet, the lessons you learn, and the person you become along the way. Whether you're building a business, raising a family, working full-time while chasing a side hustle, or simply trying to become a better version of yourself, Warren's story is a reminder that progress doesn't require perfect circumstances—just consistency, humility, and the willingness to keep showing up. We also explore life after professional racing, finding identity beyond achievements, staying grounded through success, and why enjoying the journey is ultimately more fulfilling than reaching the destination. In this episode we dive into: Balancing full-time work, college, and elite-level racing. Turning passion into discipline without burning out. Overcoming comparison and focusing on what you can control. The reality of self-funded professional mountain biking. Finding identity after stepping away from competition. Why gratitude and enjoying the present matter more than constantly chasing the next goal. If you've ever wondered whether it's possible to chase a dream while handling the responsibilities of everyday life, this conversation is for you.