The inaugural episode of the Spidcast sets the foundational standard for everything the Spid Werkz Foundation represents: grit, technical execution, community, and undeniable mental toughness. Host Peter Swiek sits down with Stephen Schaefer—a semiconductor materials researcher, Cat 1 domestic elite cyclist for Landis Trek, and self-proclaimed “Dr. Spid”—for a deeply personal and high-octane conversation.
An Anchor in the Storm
The 2025 season brought high-volume racing for Stephen across spring road stage races, national championships, and a dominant fall gravel campaign. However, just one month before the marquee event of his season—the 102-mile El Tour de Tucson—Stephen’s father was diagnosed with terminal colon cancer and entered in-home hospice care.
Navigating full-time research, caregiving alongside his family, and rigorous training, Stephen faced the heavy question of whether competing was responsible.
“Being able to feel like I had this mission… gave me a sense of security and certainty that was lacking in other elements of my life at that time. Cycling and training are things I just know how to do. Having that anchor point enabled me to be emotionally stronger for my whole family.”
— Stephen Schaefer
With the full blessing and directive of his mother on race eve, Stephen lined up in downtown Tucson ready to execute.
102 Miles, 11,000 Riders, One Mission
El Tour de Tucson is one of the largest mass-participation bike races in North America, featuring over 11,000 participants across multiple distances. Sitting in the front corral with his Landis Trek teammates, Stephen executed a tactical masterclass:
- Headwind Discipline: During the early headwind miles, the team stayed calm, letting rival attacks burn energy while marking key moves from former winners and international contenders.
- Pistol Hill Attack: Accelerating up Pistol Hill into a ripping tailwind, Stephen launched a fierce attack that whittled the lead pack down to roughly 40 riders.
- The 40-Mile Breakaway: With 40 miles remaining, Stephen capitalized on a lull in the pack, putting in a threshold effort. Teammate Nikos bridged the gap cleanly, and the duo established a textbook two-man rotation averaging 30 mph into town.
Crossing the finish line solo with a margin of over three minutes, Stephen brought home the biggest victory of his career. Later that day, Stephen learned his father had passed away during the final hours of the race—making the storybook victory a permanent tribute to his dad’s legacy.
Where to Catch the Episode
- Listen & Watch: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
- Connect with the Guest: Follow Stephen Schaefer on Instagram (
@call.me.schaefer) and on Strava. - Support Spid Werkz: To help us empower Olympic, Paralympic, and independent elite athletes on their high-performance journeys, visit spidwerkz.com.