So Close So Far

Growing up in Los Angeles there are many paths you can take. For good and for bad. Those lines can easily become blurred even for the most innocent well intentioned kids growing up. Ronnie Leon has lived an incredible life and walked more of those paths than most, as well survived a few most don't make it back from. A young talented artist turned graffiti writer found himself falling down the road of addiction struggling with heavy drugs and the lifestyle that comes with it. We talk about his amazing road to recovery, making amends with his past, and now as a Hot Shot working in WildLife and Fire in the Angeles Forest as well as an avid trail runner. He's just getting started and his journey in one we feel so fortunate to document and he now owns and is proud of. He's an inspiration to all his lil homies and a leader to those around him now, we hope everyone takes away something from this episode. Enjoy and tap in with Ronnie!

We teamed up with Brian Galdamez from UNSNCTND to create a once in a lifetime race series that paid homage to our hometown where each race was a love letter to a person, place, or thing. Some how people showed up, enjoyed themselves to the fullest, and even came to our wrap party where we showed a recap video, displayed a zine with photos and work from artist who came to the event, and even recorded this live podcast! Thank you everyone who came through excited to keep the party rolling with Chapter 4!

Jenay Meraz is a Los Angeles local whos been involved in organizing in and out of running for a long time. Shes responsible for large positive impacts on whatever she pours her energy into. Notably she is currently a captain for Good Vibes Track Club as well splitting her time working in the world of fine art galleries.

We welcome Edin Barrientos and Victor Marquez into the So Close So Far studio. We talk to Edin and Vic about the dynamics of there friendship! The beginning of Chief Lunes and the start of the LAUWC (Los Angeles Underground World of Cycling). The episode hits some heavy notes with the stories of fallen riders, stories that should be talked about. Moments that have motivated Edin to advocate for bike safety and help motivate those around him. We spill into Vic’s mind and how the start of Unsanctioned bike racing has become a staple in LA. Listen and enjoy as we end the show on some light hearted but funny stories about Chiefs Lunes infamous party rides. As always we hope you enjoy!

Recently myself and a rowdy crew of misfits participated in The Speed Project for Satisfy. A 340 mile unsanctioned 6 person relay race with few rules from the Santa Monica pier to Las Vegas. This episode was recorded hot and fresh the weekend after the conclusion of the race featuring two of the other members. Leigh Gerson, the team captain and one of the runners who has recently moved to Los Angeles from New York. We also have Hakim Tafari who brought exactly what we needed spiritually as a crew member. Together we share the most detailed tales of the adventure, from compassion to death defying moments sleepless running through death valley from the Santa Monica pier to Las Vegas. Enjoy!
Also be sure to check the short film out OUT ON A WIRE which documents the whole experience here!
https://vimeo.com/580465238