Aug 22 2024 30 mins
Are you a Minnesotan who loves both biking and joy? Well, do we have an episode for you!
The Joyful Riders Club was founded by Mario Macaruso and Patrick Stephenson in Minneapolis-St. Paul and organizes monthly community bike rides focused on fostering connection, exploring the cities, and spreading joy. The rides are slow-paced, welcoming to all skill levels, and often feature themes or surprises like costume rides or DJ music.
We had a chance to sit down with Mario and Patrick to learn more about the JRC.
Key points:
- Started in 2016, growing out of the "30 Days of Biking" initiative
- Rides are about 6-8 miles, ending with social time at a local brewery
- Emphasis on building community, reducing isolation, and introducing people to local businesses and causes
- Creates a safe, fun environment for people to overcome fears and try group riding
- Aims to change perspectives on urban cycling and expand people's "psychological maps" of their city
- Focuses on being silly, vulnerable, and creating memorable experiences
- Helping cultivate the next generation of cyclists and ride leaders
Mario and Patrick see the club as an extension of their friendship and a way to share their love of cycling while bringing people together in a joyful, community-oriented way.
- Joyful Riders Club
Credits:
Producer/Interviewer: Randolph Briley
Hosts: Sarah Strommen and Lauren Bennett McGinty
Original Music by Andrew Haaheim and Alsever Lake
Credits:
Producer: Randolph Briley
Hosts: Sarah Strommen and Lauren Bennett McGinty
Original Music by Andrew Haaheim and Alsever Lake