Stoic Coffee Break

346 - Interview with Louis Swaden: Speed Racer and Author of the Stoic Rider

38 snips
Aug 29, 2025
Louisa Swaden, a speed racer and author of 'The Stoic Rider,' shares her exhilarating journey of merging Stoicism with motorcycling. She discusses how racing has taught her valuable lessons in self-discovery and overcoming fears. Louisa emphasizes the importance of living authentically, embracing the present, and prioritizing experiences over material possessions. She also highlights the transformative power of community in recovery and personal growth, inspiring listeners to pursue their dreams and reclaim their time.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

Return To Riding After 24 Years

  • Louisa shelved motorcycling for 24 years after becoming pregnant and returned decades later craving adventure.
  • She progressed from 50 mph motorway rides to land-speed records over 200 mph through patient, incremental pushing.
ANECDOTE

Sabbatical Ride That Reignited Her

  • Louisa planned a sabbatical that included riding an Indian Scout through Death Valley and down the West Coast after years away from bikes.
  • That guided ride overcame her fear and reignited her love of motorcycling and camaraderie.
INSIGHT

Where You Look Is Where You Go

  • Where you put your attention while riding determines the path you take and your emotional state.
  • Louisa links the rider's vanishing point technique to preventing mental fixation on worst-case scenarios.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app