My guest today is someone I stumbled upon rather naturally. Over the last few weeks I’ve been reflecting on my journey as an athlete especially while preparing for UltraMegaJoy in March of next year. For those who weren’t aware, I spent several years as a competitive powerlifter and strongman athlete post graduate school. However, once I found the bicycle the rest was history. And I’ve always wanted to chat with someone about this athletic progression and, low and behold, Nino Giganti arrived at the forefront of my brain. I first met Nino through a mutual friend in St. Louis and he’s been someone I’ve kept in touch with off and on over the last few years. As I got to know Nino a little more, I discovered he also came from the realm of strength sports and, much like yours truly, recently discovered all the joy to be had while riding and racing a bike. So, I texted Nino, got him to say yes to this mess and, before I knew it, we had another episode recorded and ready for publishing.  In this conversation, Nino and I wax nostalgic about our powerlifting days and how we both ended up ditching the weight room for long days in the saddle. Nino also takes me through his formative years as a strength athlete and the people and events responsible for converting him from muscle man to an accomplished cyclist. However the most enlightening part of the conversation comes when Nino discusses his recent move from Missouri to Utah and how that transition has continued to influence his progression as a cyclist and budding bikepacker. Lastly, Nino shares an intimate story about how he was able to more deeply connect with himself and his late father during his 6 day, 600 mile bikepacking trip across the state of Utah. This conversation with Nino really resonated with me and I think it’ll hit home with you…