Lance Armstrong’s Favorite Books, Movies, and Podcasts This Year: Top Picks Revealed
Lance Armstrong, known worldwide for his cycling career and dominance in the Tour de France, has remained a figure of interest far beyond his time as a professional cyclist—especially through his reading, viewing, and listening choices each year. His recent favorites include a mix of insightful sports documentaries, influential books about overcoming adversity, and podcasts that explore endurance sports, performance, and personal growth.
Armstrong’s preferred content offers a unique look at both his mindset and what inspires him today. The books he recommends often focus on themes of perseverance and resilience, subjects close to his own experiences in top-level cycling. Podcasts like THEMOVE, which features his own commentary, continue to engage listeners with behind-the-scenes stories and discussions about the world of cycling and triathlon.
For those interested in what fuels the curiosity of one of cycling’s most well-known names, exploring Armstrong’s top picks in books, movies, and podcasts this year provides insight into both the sport and the athlete himself.
Lance Armstrong’s Top Book Picks This Year
Lance Armstrong has gravitated toward a collection of books this year that reflect his interests in athletic achievement, personal reinvention, and thoughtful leadership. His reading list highlights autobiographical accounts, modern psychology, and commentary on leadership and society.
Inspiring Sports Biographies
Armstrong’s selection of It's Not About the Bike: My Journey Back to Life and Every Second Counts remains enduring. These memoirs detail his battles with cancer, his competitive drive, and his cycling victories, providing honest accounts of hardship and resilience.
He also showed appreciation for Comeback 2.0: Up Close and Personal, which offers a photographic and narrative account of his return to professional racing. In conversations, Armstrong has noted the value of sports biographies that move beyond victory to explore motivation and personal cost.
Other biographies on his reading list include titles highlighting the psychology of elite athletes, drawing from science and real-life stories. These works appeal to readers who value grit, recovery, and the complexities of maintaining leadership and competitiveness under public scrutiny.
Personal Growth and Mindset Shifts
Armstrong has explored books focused on personal growth and understanding one’s mindset. He often references Mindset by Carol Dweck, a cornerstone text on the impact of belief systems on success and resilience.
Psychology plays a significant role in his choices, including selections by authors such as Malcolm Gladwell. Notably, Gladwell’s works like Outliers and David and Goliath analyze human decision-making and shifting perspectives. These books engage readers seeking ways to overcome setbacks and reframe adversity.
Armstrong has also delved into texts exploring wellness beyond the athlete’s perspective. He cites works on physical and mental recovery, stress, and adaptation, focusing on practical tips for maintaining long-term health and drive.
Business, Politics, and Leadership
Leadership and decision-making in high-stakes environments have been frequent topics on Armstrong’s recent list. He engages with contemporary commentary on U.S. leadership and global politics, appreciating works that examine how influential figures shape policy and business strategy.
Books by Malcolm Gladwell appear here as well, especially titles examining leadership psychology and unpredictable outcomes. Other selections include case studies on political campaigns, business turnarounds, and profiles of leaders adapting to rapid change.
Armstrong has also been interested in publications tackling business innovation and the evolving intersection of sports and corporate ethics. He highlights compelling narratives about leadership in crisis and the need for adaptability in modern organizations.
Armstrong’s Favorite Movies of the Year
Lance Armstrong’s movie picks this year reflect a focus on overcoming adversity, the excitement of competitive sports, and a real appreciation for stories rooted in both music and resilience. His selections cross genres but are unified by their themes of challenge, recovery, and the power of storytelling.
Sports and Endurance Documentaries
Armstrong continues to show interest in sports documentaries, especially those that highlight personal endurance and the inner workings of elite competitions. He has mentioned enjoying the documentary The Program, which offers a detailed look at his own cycling career and the circumstances surrounding his Tour de France titles and controversies.
Additionally, Armstrong praised Icarus for its investigation into doping in sports. The film’s honest portrayal of system failures and personal decisions resonates with him, as its subject matter parallels some of his public struggles. He also enjoyed revisiting classic endurance stories like Free Solo, admiring the intense physical and mental demands faced by the athletes featured.
These selections reflect Armstrong’s appreciation for films that provide insight into the pressures and perseverance required at the highest levels of competition.
Exploring Adversity and Comebacks
Films focused on personal comebacks and overcoming difficult odds rank highly on Armstrong’s annual list. He has expressed particular appreciation for The Dawn Wall, which depicts rock climber Tommy Caldwell’s journey through adversity and his determination to rebuild after personal hardships.
Armstrong also cited Million Dollar Baby as a favorite, recognizing how the story captures grit and the unpredictability of a comeback attempt. He appreciates movies that showcase how setbacks can drive personal growth, highlighting stories that do not shy away from depicting struggle and loss.
These films offer nuanced portrayals of resilience. Armstrong notes that realistic depictions of adversity align with his own experiences, making such movies especially meaningful.
Entertainment and Country Music
Beyond sports, Armstrong’s favorites this year include films connected to entertainment and country music. As a longtime fan of the Avett Brothers, he enjoyed the documentary May It Last: A Portrait of the Avett Brothers, which chronicles the band’s rise and the role of authenticity in their music.
Country music features in several of his picks. Armstrong mentioned revisiting Walk the Line, appreciating the biopic's raw depiction of Johnny Cash’s struggles and triumphs in the music industry. He also enjoyed lighter titles featuring live music performances, highlighting the appeal of soundtracks and real-life stories from the music world.
This combination of entertainment and authenticity in music-related films marks a shift from past years, reflecting Armstrong’s growing interest in storytelling beyond just sports.
Podcasts Lance Armstrong Recommends
Lance Armstrong often highlights podcasts that blend expert insights with personal stories. His recommendations focus on meaningful conversations and innovative thinking in sports, science, and culture.
The Forward Podcast and Signature Interviews
Armstrong hosts The Forward Podcast, featuring in-depth conversations with an array of guests. He is known for bringing on accomplished athletes like Chris Evert, as well as authors, musicians, and people with compelling stories.
Episodes typically run between 60 and 90 minutes. Each conversation aims to explore both the guest's professional achievements and their personal motivations. Notable interviews include candid dialogues with Malcolm Gladwell, where they discussed resilience and narrative in sports.
A table of some key guests featured:
Guest Profession Chris Evert Tennis Champion Malcolm Gladwell Author, Journalist Neil deGrasse Tyson Astrophysicist
Armstrong leverages his own experience to ask questions that go beneath the surface, drawing out rare insights from each guest.
Insightful Conversations with Leaders
Beyond The Forward, Armstrong often recommends podcasts hosted by leading figures in their respective fields. He frequently references shows that feature leaders sharing tactics, lessons, and fresh perspectives.
Listeners will find that Armstrong values podcasts that challenge conventional wisdom and encourage open discussion. For example, interviews with Malcolm Gladwell draw attention for their thorough analysis of sports psychology and storytelling.
These podcasts appeal to those interested in sports, leadership, and the mindsets behind success. Armstrong is drawn to formats emphasizing sincere, thoughtful exchanges rather than soundbites or promotional content.
Some recurring qualities he looks for include:
Depth of conversation
Host’s ability to connect diverse topics
Genuine curiosity
Science, Data, and Fresh Perspectives
Podcasts focused on science and innovation also appear in Armstrong's recommendations. He often cites guests like Neil deGrasse Tyson for their ability to bring complex subjects, such as astrophysics and data, into accessible conversation.
Armstrong appreciates podcasts that address the intersection of sports, health, and science. These shows frequently involve data-driven analysis, new research in endurance performance, and evolving concepts in human physiology.
Episodes featuring scientists and thinkers are valued for their practical takeaways and real-world applications. Armstrong uses them to stay updated on trends and to look at issues through a multidisciplinary lens. This interest is reflected in his own podcast selections and guest choices.
Lessons from Books: Mindset, Growth, and Wellness
The mindset behind peak performance often emphasizes embracing challenge and consistent, incremental improvement. Personal growth and wellness are closely linked with how individuals approach discomfort and adopt sustained habits.
Power of Discomfort and The 2% Mindset
Books favored by Lance Armstrong this year spotlight the role of discomfort in personal growth. The “2% mindset” concept challenges readers to regularly step just outside their comfort zones, not by aiming for massive change, but by embracing small, meaningful stretches. This approach fosters resilience and adaptability over time.
Authors like Carol Dweck, whose book Mindset remains influential, explain that confronting discomfort supports the development of a growth mindset. By seeking challenges and learning from setbacks, athletes and non-athletes alike enhance both performance and wellness. Armstrong’s reading list often includes works that reinforce the idea that sustainable progress comes from consistently choosing growth over certainty.
This strategy pairs well with the principles of high-performance coaching, where athletes attempt slightly harder tasks each day. Tools like reflection journals, goal tracking, and deliberate practice support this shift, helping readers see discomfort as a vital driver of personal development.
Small Changes for Big Impact
Wellness experts recommend starting with small, practical changes for lasting results. Books on Armstrong’s shelf emphasize that radical shifts are rarely sustainable, but minor adjustments to routines—like a 5-minute meditation or daily walks—can have cumulative effects over months.
Table: Sample Micro-Changes for Enhanced Wellness
Habit Change Potential Benefit Morning stretching Reduced stiffness Drinking more water Improved energy levels Nightly digital detox Better sleep quality
These resources highlight that incremental progress, such as shifting self-talk from fixed to growth-oriented language, produces more robust motivation than aiming for perfection. Armstrong’s preferred podcasts and books underscore the idea that wellness is built step-by-step, making wellness accessible without overwhelm. Adopting this mindset empowers individuals to sustain momentum, reinforcing that small shifts can yield meaningful long-term growth.
Endurance Sports, Cycling, and Community Engagement
Lance Armstrong’s involvement in endurance sports goes beyond competition. His focus extends to community impact through nonprofit work and fostering connections around shared experiences.
Cycling Events and Competitive Spirit
Armstrong is deeply rooted in cycling, having shaped a significant portion of his life through professional races and endurance events. His association with platforms like WEDŪ and podcasts such as THEMOVE allows him to regularly comment on events like the Tour de France.
These platforms provide analysis, reflect on the nuances of competitive cycling, and spotlight the mental demands required for high-level performance. Armstrong's insights come from firsthand race experience, offering a detailed look at strategies and challenges unique to endurance sports.
He frequently discusses aspects like pacing, team dynamics, and race tactics—a valuable resource for enthusiasts who want to understand what unfolds beneath the surface of major cycling events. This commitment to sharing expertise keeps the competitive spirit alive for him and his listeners.
Supporting Cancer Survivors and Nonprofits
Armstrong has long been linked to the fight against cancer, both as a survivor and as a founder of the Livestrong Foundation. The foundation focuses on empowering cancer survivors, particularly those recovering from testicular cancer, and on improving access to support services worldwide.
Over the years, Livestrong has raised substantial funding for cancer research, survivor programs, and advocacy. Their initiatives are listed with clear objectives, such as:
Patient navigation support
Health education for survivors
Grants for innovation in care
His personal experience as a cancer survivor informs public appearances and charity rides, underscoring the practical impact of nonprofit efforts. Armstrong remains engaged with other health-related nonprofits, supporting community-driven solutions for long-term wellness.
Building Community Through Food and Connection
Beyond the bike, Armstrong recognizes the importance of coming together around meals and shared activities. He has participated in events and rides that end with communal meals, emphasizing how food can foster genuine conversation among both cyclists and supporters.
Community events organized by Armstrong and his partners often blend group rides with opportunities to connect over refreshments. This format promotes inclusivity, breaking down barriers between professional athletes, amateur riders, and supporters.
Food serves as a medium for building stronger networks, supporting nonprofit causes, and tying together diverse participants under a unified purpose. Through these gatherings, Armstrong channels the power of social connection to enhance both physical and emotional well-being within the cycling community.
Influences and Recommendations from Armstrong’s Circle
Lance Armstrong stays connected with key figures from his professional cycling days, drawing on their unique perspectives. Their book, movie, and podcast suggestions offer direct insight into the culture of stage races and the inner workings of pro cycling.
Johan Bruyneel and George Hincapie
Johan Bruyneel, Armstrong’s former team director, consistently shares his expertise on major races and strategy. His recommendations often focus on documentaries and books that dissect the tactical side of professional cycling, including his own memoir and works by well-known cycling journalists.
George Hincapie, Armstrong’s longtime teammate, suggests titles that highlight the challenges faced during stage races. He prefers films and biographies that reveal both the psychological and physical demands on elite cyclists. Hincapie often features in cycling podcasts where he discusses personal experiences, offering listeners an insider’s look at team dynamics and race moments.
Both Bruyneel and Hincapie contribute guest picks on Armstrong’s media projects, emphasizing analytical reads and behind-the-scenes stories from the grand tours.
Sample Recommended Content:
Name Type Focus Johan Bruyneel Book Cycling tactics, Tour de France George Hincapie Podcast Teamwork, endurance, career memories
Spencer Martin on Professional Cycling
Spencer Martin, a respected cycling analyst, delivers in-depth breakdowns of stage races and the pro peloton’s current trends. His recommendations center on data-driven books and specialized podcasts that decode race strategy, emerging teams, and season highlights.
Martin regularly features on podcasts like The Move, where he reviews race results and previews upcoming events. He points readers toward detailed blogs and analytics platforms, encouraging fans to understand the nuances of professional cycling beyond result sheets.
Martin’s influence helps Armstrong’s followers stay informed about evolving tactics, rider development, and the broader context of the sport’s leading competitions. His selections appeal to those who want to dig into the facts and figures of cycling.
Media, Adaptability, and Modern Perspectives
Armstrong often engages with different forms of media, emphasizing the importance of understanding shifting narratives and personal growth. His interests reflect attention to both changing cultural landscapes and the enduring question of how individuals can reinvent themselves.
Navigating Media Polarization
Media polarization continues to shape public conversations and individual viewpoints. Armstrong’s podcast, The Forward, features discussions with guests like Douglas Brinkley, addressing how polarized media environments impact politics and day-to-day perspectives.
He gives attention to the audio-video experience by using professional recording setups to maintain high-quality discussions, which allows listeners to engage more deeply. Armstrong carefully curates guests from varied backgrounds, providing insights that challenge singular narratives and highlight the complexity of modern reporting.
By choosing content that directly confronts current media trends, Armstrong seeks sources that help decipher not just headlines, but the motivations behind them. This approach encourages audiences to remain skeptical, well-informed, and aware of the ever-growing divide that characterizes modern media.
Embracing Fresh Starts and Longevity
Armstrong’s media recommendations reveal a fascination with fresh starts and the extension of human life, both literal and metaphorical. On his platforms and in public appearances, themes of reinvention, second chances, and pushing personal boundaries are recurring.
His interviews with guests who have overcome setbacks, or who discuss longevity in sports and life, point to a preference for stories about adaptability. Venues like ACL Live, known for hosting innovative performances and discussions, align well with Armstrong’s appreciation for resilience and change.
He gravitates toward content that explores the science and philosophy of living longer and better. Whether through featured books on scientific advancements or conversations with thought leaders, Armstrong’s media choices stress the value of continual renewal and personal growth.
Selected Works Featuring Lance Armstrong
Lance Armstrong is featured in a range of books, interviews, and media that capture his achievements, controversies, and the evolution of his public image. These works offer insights into his personal journey, his career in cycling, and his life after racing.
Books and Interviews Highlighting His Journey
Several books profile Armstrong’s cycling career and the dramatic turns in his personal life. "It's Not About the Bike: My Journey Back to Life" is his most well-known autobiography, tracing his rise, cancer battle, and return to cycling. Later, "Every Second Counts" continued his narrative, reflecting on the height of his success and family life.
In addition to autobiographies, other published works delve into Armstrong’s impact and controversies. "Lance Armstrong: Images of a Champion" provides a visual record of his rides and victories with prominent photography. "Lance Armstrong’s War" by Daniel Coyle investigates the mental and physical demands Armstrong faced and details the intense atmosphere of professional cycling.
Armstrong also took part in major interviews, most notably "The Playboy Interview," where he addressed career highs, doping allegations, and personal philosophies. These interviews document his responses to both triumph and criticism, offering direct insight into his perspective.
Documentaries and Performance Programs
Armstrong’s career and legacy have also been explored in documentaries and televised features. "The Official Tour de France" segments frequently highlight his performance during the years he dominated the race, capturing pivotal moments of his seven consecutive wins. These archival clips and episodes provide context to Armstrong’s significance in cycling history.
The Lance Armstrong Performance Program was launched to share his approach to training and endurance, combining technical advice and motivational insights. This program appeals to cyclists and athletes interested in the methods and routines of high-level performance.
Documentaries such as ESPN’s "LANCE" present a critical, in-depth look at key events, from his athletic triumphs to doping scandals and personal struggles. They gather perspectives from Armstrong, his competitors, and commentators, building a layered view of his influence in and out of the sport.
WEDŪ, THEMOVE, and Armstrong’s Evolving Influence
Lance Armstrong continues to expand his influence beyond professional cycling through digital platforms and business initiatives. His work has attracted dedicated fans invested not only in sports but also in personal growth and insight.
The Move Podcast
THEMOVE podcast is one of Armstrong’s most recognized media projects. Hosted on the WEDŪ platform, it provides analysis, interviews, and detailed coverage of major cycling events, including the Tour de France and Classics.
Listeners come for expert breakdowns of race tactics, but stay for Armstrong’s insider perspective—one shaped by his experiences and knowledge. Regular guests include cycling professionals, sports journalists, and business figures. Episodes often focus on data-driven insights, training strategies, and the evolution of cycling technology.
The podcast has carved a niche among endurance sport fans interested in in-depth recaps and transparent discussion of both victories and setbacks. Additionally, THEMOVE’s format encourages honest conversation about both the sport and Armstrong’s own career, reflecting his commitment to authenticity.
Community and Business Ventures
WEDŪ is more than a media brand; it also acts as a hub for engaging and connecting with a wider audience. Armstrong leveraged WEDŪ to build a community around endurance sports, fostering interaction through group rides, events, and exclusive online experiences.
Beyond content, WEDŪ offers products specifically targeted to cycling and endurance enthusiasts. This business venture includes branded merchandise, partnerships with industry-leading equipment brands, and unique event access. Armstrong’s approach combines business acumen with personal passion for cycling, creating a platform that thrives on both data-drivenness and community input.
WEDŪ’s integration of media, events, and commerce sets it apart, cementing Armstrong’s evolving legacy as both a content creator and entrepreneur.
