SS: What drew you to Shadyside Spin?
JL: I ran into Elizabeth, my first and favorite Spin instructor, and she told me she was opening her own spin studio. Once I took just one class at Shadyside Spin, it was all over. I love looking out at the clouds drifting across the city, cycling down roads in South Africa (or following Lance), and I love, most of all, those wonderful, long, endurance spins.

SS: What's the best part of being a Pitt college professor?
JL: I love making my living reading and talking about books and guiding young writers as they attempt to write intelligently and artfully about real life. On the best days, there is a kind of awakening that happens for all of us.

SS: How long have you been spinning?
JL: I've been spinning for 3 years. I've met some terrific fellow spinners in the process, who then got me back out on the road -- Bill Campbell and Simon Wu continue to kick my butt, whether in the studio or cranking up E Street.

SS: How do you like to spend your free time, besides spinning, of course?
JL: I love cycling and Spynoga. I find that the yoga part of the class strengthens my spinning muscles immeasurably. I'm a closet botanist, an overt knitter and a shameless tequila lover.

SS: What's your favorite restaurant or club?
JL: If you want good food, go to a nice restaurant. If you want great food, Jen Lee's roast chicken with a nice apple galette for dessert cannot be beat!

SS: Galette? Isn't that another name for a tart?
JL: Hey, if you want pedestrian descriptions, don't interview a writing professor!

SS: Anything else you'd like to share about Shadyside Spin?
JL: I always feel so good when I leave Shadyside spin, like I can do anything--this body can climb a hill, sprint, endure. Contrary to popular opinion, I find nothing sexier than a bunch of people encouraging each other to challenge their bodies.