Life Wide Open with CboysTV

Episode: Axell Hodges on Overcoming Injuries, Chasing Worlds Firsts & Getting Evan Back on Top
Release Date: November 4, 2025

Overview

This episode welcomes legendary motocross rider Axell Hodges to the Life Wide Open podcast. The conversation dives deep into Axell's unique riding style, the creative inspiration behind his tricks, his journey through racing and freestyling, the mental and physical toll of injuries, building his “Slayground” compound, and helping host Evan regain his riding “mojo.” The hosts and Axell openly discuss the evolution of freestyle motocross, the gritty realities of recovery, the importance of fun and creativity, and the untold stories behind iconic viral moments.

Key Topics & Segments

1. Bringing Evan Back: Addressing the Haters & Finding Confidence

[00:00–04:11]

The hosts address online comments suggesting Evan has “fallen off” as a rider and describe bringing in Axell to help Evan get his confidence back.
Axell reflects on helping Evan:

"He came out. He's greasing jumps. He looked good to me... Just needed some confidence back, dude."
— Axell Hodges [03:37]
Hosts reminisce about reaching out to Axell years ago to ride together, sharing how "everything comes full circle."

2. Axell’s Unique Style & Influences

[06:15–12:30]

Axell discusses his unorthodox approach, drawing inspiration from skateboarding and snowboarding rather than traditional racing.
On making freestyle accessible:

"That is not doing like a triple backflip. But I land wheelies, and then I see all the kids at the track trying to land wheelies on tabletops and stuff. And it's pretty cool to see it rub off on other people."
— Axell Hodges [11:10]
Emphasis on having fun, innovating, and making dirt biking relatable for the next generation.

3. Early Injuries & Stealth Racing

[13:48–17:50]

Axell recounts breaking his femur at age five, leading his mom to ban dirt bikes in the family.
He secretly returns to riding, even hiding bikes in the barn from his mother.
Shares anecdotes of early victories, sneaking into races, and the gradual acceptance from family as his skills became evident.

4. Transitioning from Racing to Freestyle

[18:17–21:19]

Burnout from the “miserable” racing scene led Axell to best whip contests, launching a transition into freestyle and X Games.
On turning point:

"I was miserable, not having fun. My dad was pissed at me. But in the parking lot I got second in the best Whip contest. Then I got invited X Games. I made money and I'm like, that was so much more fun… ever since then, I never raced my dirt bike again."
— Axell Hodges [19:03]

5. Building Slayground: Dream Compound and Creative Process

[25:10–33:23]

Building progression: technical jump design, heavy machinery, constant maintenance, and weather challenges.
Monster Energy’s support is crucial to Axell’s build-out and viral video series.
On the expense and challenges:

"Dirt work is just constant work. We'll finally get it good; then a random California rainstorm will come through and it's just completely rain rutted and you just have to rebuild everything."
— Axell Hodges [33:08]

6. Freestyle Technique, Jumps, and Risk Calculation

[27:43–45:32]

Axell shares insight into how he sizes up massive jumps, trusting muscle memory over test hits.
Discusses suspension, throttle, and "gut feeling" necessary for hitting—and surviving—first attempts on new features.
The importance of “feeding off” courage and confidence from other top riders:

"When we all get together, then we feed off of each other, and it makes it a lot easier to hit a big jump instead of, like, being there by yourself, just having good vibes."
— Axell Hodges [44:46]

7. Iconic Moments: Dads, Viral Clips & Family

[46:15–54:00]

The hosts replay the legendary video of Axell’s dad stuck in the thornbush after a crash—viral for its comedic and tragic elements:

“My dad was pinned in the thorn bush trying to save his life... He didn't drop the stogie. That's a steep hill.”
— Axell Hodges [47:36]
Axell gets sentimental about sharing his career with family, handling critics (“You take your daddy with you”) with pride.
His dad’s fearless—if chaotic—riding style influenced Axell both in what to do and what not to do.

8. Harleys, Three-Wheelers, and Action Sports Culture

[54:00–61:00]

Delving into custom Harley wheelies and the Unknown Industries crew.
The dangers and humor of three-wheeler culture, sharing stories of friends with legendary (and often sketchy) DIY riding setups.
Light-hearted banter about weddings, chaos, and the Indiana Jones spirit of their collective.

9. Injuries: Crashes, Recovery, and Mental Resilience

[61:12–72:15]

Reveals details behind breaking his femur three times, the notorious Glamis dunes crash, and the crucial role of having an impromptu medic nearby.
Candidly discusses battling depression after losing close friend Pat Casey, and then getting re-injured:

"It took me a while to want to have fun on my dirt bike again… I just really wasn't mentally ready to ride after that. He passed away, we're riding at my property... but now, I don't know, I just—dirt bikes are so fun to me and it's my favorite thing ever."
— Axell Hodges [63:52 & 63:38]
On rehab and the grind of recovery:

"Just keeping it moving, like even if you're not putting weight on it. You want to keep those muscles moving, or else they'll lock up on you..."
— Axell Hodges [70:21]

10. The Evolving World of Freestyle & Social Media

[72:15–76:38]

Explores how social media changed the landscape—freestyle is less contest-based, more about viral creativity and broad appeal.
Encourages new riders to innovate and find personal style.
On chasing “world’s firsts”:

"I just like doing stuff that I think is cool. That stokes me out… That's what I get the most satisfaction out of: that was sick."
— Axell Hodges [77:02]

11. World Records and the Reality of Mega Jumps

[78:01–83:38]

Details the pursuit of the 400-foot distance jump world record, the intense technical setup, and the life-and-death stakes.
Survived a 396-foot jump—just shy of his 420 goal—before suffering severe foot and ankle injuries.

"I was on a 450...I would hit it at 106 [mph]...But just that one bad jump kind of set me back. It wasn't my intention...I'm good with that for myself."
— Axell Hodges [78:51, 82:41]

12. Looking Ahead: Progression, Collaboration & Community

[86:12–91:51]

Open invitation to snowmobile with the Cboys, and a willingness to try new disciplines.
Nods to up-and-comers in freestyle and his hope to inspire creative riding.
Plug for Axell’s YouTube giveaway as he approaches 500k subscribers.

Notable Quotes

On Creativity & Influence:
"You ride a dirt bike like somebody rides a skateboard...steezy style."
— Host 1 to Axell [09:59]
On Setbacks:
"Learning how to crash is definitely a big part of being like a freestyle dirt bike rider."
— Axell Hodges [65:40]
On Personal Motivation:
"I love dirt bikes. Like, there's nothing else that would make me as happy as a dirt bike...Dirt bikes is it."
— Axell Hodges [70:56]
On Doing What Hasn't Been Done:
"I'm not one to go, Oh, I just broke the record. I just like doing stuff that I think is cool. That stokes me out."
— Axell Hodges [77:02]

Highlights & Memorable Moments

[03:37] Axell praises Evan's natural riding ability, helping him push through negativity.
[19:03] Parking lot best whip contest changes Axell’s life, proving the joy (and financial incentive!) of freestyle.
[47:36] The viral “dad in the thorns” video, Axell’s dad refusing to drop his stogie despite the chaos.
[63:52] Death of friend Pat Casey and subsequent injury; honest look at mental health in action sports.
[78:51] Technical breakdown of the near 400-foot record jump: “I was coming in, going like 106 [mph]...I wanted to get 420. That was my main goal.”
[91:34] Axell announces 450cc bike giveaway for YouTube milestone.

Essential Timestamps

03:37 Helping Evan regain confidence
11:10 On making freestyle relatable
19:03 Transition to freestyle with best whip
33:08 On the endless work of maintaining Slayground
47:36 The viral “dad in the thorns” story
63:52 Coping with injury and loss of a friend
70:56 Why he can’t quit riding dirt bikes
78:51 Attempting the 400ft distance record
91:34 YouTube 450cc bike giveaway announcement

Closing Thoughts

This episode blends inspiration, gritty realism, and classic CboysTV humor in an inside look at what it takes to push boundaries—physically, mentally, and creatively—in extreme sports. Axell Hodges emerges not only as a world-class rider and innovator, but also a passionate mentor, candid about the struggles, risks, and joys of a life “wide open.”

Find Axell online:

Instagram: @axellhodges
YouTube: Axell Hodges
slayco96.com (merchandise)

Life Wide Open Podcast: New episodes every Tuesday.
Instagram: @lifewideopenpodcast

Life Wide Open with CboysTV

Episode: Axell Hodges on Overcoming Injuries, Chasing Worlds Firsts & Getting Evan Back on Top
Release Date: November 4, 2025

Overview

Key Topics & Segments

1. Bringing Evan Back: Addressing the Haters & Finding Confidence

[00:00–04:11]

The hosts address online comments suggesting Evan has “fallen off” as a rider and describe bringing in Axell to help Evan get his confidence back.
Axell reflects on helping Evan:

"He came out. He's greasing jumps. He looked good to me... Just needed some confidence back, dude."
— Axell Hodges [03:37]
Hosts reminisce about reaching out to Axell years ago to ride together, sharing how "everything comes full circle."

2. Axell’s Unique Style & Influences

[06:15–12:30]

Axell discusses his unorthodox approach, drawing inspiration from skateboarding and snowboarding rather than traditional racing.
On making freestyle accessible:

"That is not doing like a triple backflip. But I land wheelies, and then I see all the kids at the track trying to land wheelies on tabletops and stuff. And it's pretty cool to see it rub off on other people."
— Axell Hodges [11:10]
Emphasis on having fun, innovating, and making dirt biking relatable for the next generation.

3. Early Injuries & Stealth Racing

[13:48–17:50]

Axell recounts breaking his femur at age five, leading his mom to ban dirt bikes in the family.
He secretly returns to riding, even hiding bikes in the barn from his mother.
Shares anecdotes of early victories, sneaking into races, and the gradual acceptance from family as his skills became evident.

4. Transitioning from Racing to Freestyle

[18:17–21:19]

Burnout from the “miserable” racing scene led Axell to best whip contests, launching a transition into freestyle and X Games.
On turning point:

"I was miserable, not having fun. My dad was pissed at me. But in the parking lot I got second in the best Whip contest. Then I got invited X Games. I made money and I'm like, that was so much more fun… ever since then, I never raced my dirt bike again."
— Axell Hodges [19:03]

5. Building Slayground: Dream Compound and Creative Process

[25:10–33:23]

Building progression: technical jump design, heavy machinery, constant maintenance, and weather challenges.
Monster Energy’s support is crucial to Axell’s build-out and viral video series.
On the expense and challenges:

"Dirt work is just constant work. We'll finally get it good; then a random California rainstorm will come through and it's just completely rain rutted and you just have to rebuild everything."
— Axell Hodges [33:08]

6. Freestyle Technique, Jumps, and Risk Calculation

[27:43–45:32]

Axell shares insight into how he sizes up massive jumps, trusting muscle memory over test hits.
Discusses suspension, throttle, and "gut feeling" necessary for hitting—and surviving—first attempts on new features.
The importance of “feeding off” courage and confidence from other top riders:

"When we all get together, then we feed off of each other, and it makes it a lot easier to hit a big jump instead of, like, being there by yourself, just having good vibes."
— Axell Hodges [44:46]

7. Iconic Moments: Dads, Viral Clips & Family

[46:15–54:00]

The hosts replay the legendary video of Axell’s dad stuck in the thornbush after a crash—viral for its comedic and tragic elements:

“My dad was pinned in the thorn bush trying to save his life... He didn't drop the stogie. That's a steep hill.”
— Axell Hodges [47:36]
Axell gets sentimental about sharing his career with family, handling critics (“You take your daddy with you”) with pride.
His dad’s fearless—if chaotic—riding style influenced Axell both in what to do and what not to do.

8. Harleys, Three-Wheelers, and Action Sports Culture

[54:00–61:00]

Delving into custom Harley wheelies and the Unknown Industries crew.
The dangers and humor of three-wheeler culture, sharing stories of friends with legendary (and often sketchy) DIY riding setups.
Light-hearted banter about weddings, chaos, and the Indiana Jones spirit of their collective.

9. Injuries: Crashes, Recovery, and Mental Resilience

[61:12–72:15]

Reveals details behind breaking his femur three times, the notorious Glamis dunes crash, and the crucial role of having an impromptu medic nearby.
Candidly discusses battling depression after losing close friend Pat Casey, and then getting re-injured:

"It took me a while to want to have fun on my dirt bike again… I just really wasn't mentally ready to ride after that. He passed away, we're riding at my property... but now, I don't know, I just—dirt bikes are so fun to me and it's my favorite thing ever."
— Axell Hodges [63:52 & 63:38]
On rehab and the grind of recovery:

"Just keeping it moving, like even if you're not putting weight on it. You want to keep those muscles moving, or else they'll lock up on you..."
— Axell Hodges [70:21]

10. The Evolving World of Freestyle & Social Media

[72:15–76:38]

Explores how social media changed the landscape—freestyle is less contest-based, more about viral creativity and broad appeal.
Encourages new riders to innovate and find personal style.
On chasing “world’s firsts”:

"I just like doing stuff that I think is cool. That stokes me out… That's what I get the most satisfaction out of: that was sick."
— Axell Hodges [77:02]

11. World Records and the Reality of Mega Jumps

[78:01–83:38]

Details the pursuit of the 400-foot distance jump world record, the intense technical setup, and the life-and-death stakes.
Survived a 396-foot jump—just shy of his 420 goal—before suffering severe foot and ankle injuries.

"I was on a 450...I would hit it at 106 [mph]...But just that one bad jump kind of set me back. It wasn't my intention...I'm good with that for myself."
— Axell Hodges [78:51, 82:41]

12. Looking Ahead: Progression, Collaboration & Community

[86:12–91:51]

Open invitation to snowmobile with the Cboys, and a willingness to try new disciplines.
Nods to up-and-comers in freestyle and his hope to inspire creative riding.
Plug for Axell’s YouTube giveaway as he approaches 500k subscribers.

Notable Quotes

On Creativity & Influence:
"You ride a dirt bike like somebody rides a skateboard...steezy style."
— Host 1 to Axell [09:59]
On Setbacks:
"Learning how to crash is definitely a big part of being like a freestyle dirt bike rider."
— Axell Hodges [65:40]
On Personal Motivation:
"I love dirt bikes. Like, there's nothing else that would make me as happy as a dirt bike...Dirt bikes is it."
— Axell Hodges [70:56]
On Doing What Hasn't Been Done:
"I'm not one to go, Oh, I just broke the record. I just like doing stuff that I think is cool. That stokes me out."
— Axell Hodges [77:02]

Highlights & Memorable Moments

[03:37] Axell praises Evan's natural riding ability, helping him push through negativity.
[19:03] Parking lot best whip contest changes Axell’s life, proving the joy (and financial incentive!) of freestyle.
[47:36] The viral “dad in the thorns” video, Axell’s dad refusing to drop his stogie despite the chaos.
[63:52] Death of friend Pat Casey and subsequent injury; honest look at mental health in action sports.
[78:51] Technical breakdown of the near 400-foot record jump: “I was coming in, going like 106 [mph]...I wanted to get 420. That was my main goal.”
[91:34] Axell announces 450cc bike giveaway for YouTube milestone.

Essential Timestamps

03:37 Helping Evan regain confidence
11:10 On making freestyle relatable
19:03 Transition to freestyle with best whip
33:08 On the endless work of maintaining Slayground
47:36 The viral “dad in the thorns” story
63:52 Coping with injury and loss of a friend
70:56 Why he can’t quit riding dirt bikes
78:51 Attempting the 400ft distance record
91:34 YouTube 450cc bike giveaway announcement

Closing Thoughts

Find Axell online:

Instagram: @axellhodges
YouTube: Axell Hodges
slayco96.com (merchandise)

Life Wide Open Podcast: New episodes every Tuesday.
Instagram: @lifewideopenpodcast

Axell Hodges on Overcoming Injuries, Chasing Worlds Firsts & Getting Evan Back on Top

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Summary

Life Wide Open with CboysTV

Overview

Key Topics & Segments

1. Bringing Evan Back: Addressing the Haters & Finding Confidence

2. Axell’s Unique Style & Influences

3. Early Injuries & Stealth Racing

4. Transitioning from Racing to Freestyle

5. Building Slayground: Dream Compound and Creative Process

6. Freestyle Technique, Jumps, and Risk Calculation

7. Iconic Moments: Dads, Viral Clips & Family

8. Harleys, Three-Wheelers, and Action Sports Culture

9. Injuries: Crashes, Recovery, and Mental Resilience

10. The Evolving World of Freestyle & Social Media

11. World Records and the Reality of Mega Jumps

12. Looking Ahead: Progression, Collaboration & Community

Notable Quotes

Highlights & Memorable Moments

Essential Timestamps

Closing Thoughts

Summary

Life Wide Open with CboysTV

Overview

Key Topics & Segments

1. Bringing Evan Back: Addressing the Haters & Finding Confidence

2. Axell’s Unique Style & Influences

3. Early Injuries & Stealth Racing

4. Transitioning from Racing to Freestyle

5. Building Slayground: Dream Compound and Creative Process

6. Freestyle Technique, Jumps, and Risk Calculation

7. Iconic Moments: Dads, Viral Clips & Family

8. Harleys, Three-Wheelers, and Action Sports Culture

9. Injuries: Crashes, Recovery, and Mental Resilience

10. The Evolving World of Freestyle & Social Media

11. World Records and the Reality of Mega Jumps

12. Looking Ahead: Progression, Collaboration & Community

Notable Quotes

Highlights & Memorable Moments

Essential Timestamps

Closing Thoughts