Show Notes
Introduction
- Review of guest: Emile Hughes, founder of RideBHM
- Overview of RideBHM’s mission: Balances profit with social good as a B Corporation
- Initial inspiration: Emile’s visit to Kanuga Bike Park during the COVID-19 pandemic
Experience Enhancements
- Shuttle services: Available on Saturdays
- E-bike recommendations: For enhanced experience and skill improvement on descents
Future Plans
- Potential expansion of shuttle services
- Introduction of a ski lift-like mechanism for transporting bikes up the hill
Land Acquisition & Development
- Location: 200 dormant acres of Red Mountain Park’s 1500 acres
- Historical context: Previously mined and deforested areas with invasive species
Challenges & Efforts
- Financial and logistical challenges: High costs and need for heavy machinery
- Partnerships with Thompson Caterpillar, Kanuga Bike Park and Dialed Dirt for construction support
Trail Construction & Maintenance
- Complex processes: Professional planning, heavy machinery required
- Specific equipment: Skid steer with drum mulcher and excavators
- Trail maintenance issues: Erosion, seasonal challenges
Personal Insights
- Emile’s intense investment in the project (physical and financial)
- Importance of community: Members contribute significantly to operations and maintenance
Operations & Accessibility
- Availability of memberships and day passes
- Focus on inclusivity: Custom lessons and periodic clinics
- Accessibility for newcomers: Emphasis on safety and proper instructions
Community Impact
- Diverse community formation: Activities fostering strong bonds
- Breaking echo chambers: Common activities promote understanding beyond diverse backgrounds
Business Considerations
- Difference between nonprofit and business: Importance of earning revenue
- Potential future structures: Consideration of a 501(c)(3) alongside the B Corp
- Funding solutions: Seeking grants, investments and local entity support
Visitor Experience & Community Building
- Comparisons: With Kanuga’s advantages in infrastructure and tourist market
- Visitor feedback: Positive experiences but need for better visitor amenities
- Promoting Birmingham: Downtown breweries, restaurants and events
End Notes
- Encouragement for participation: Join RideBHM by visiting on a Saturday with options for day passes and rentals
- Emile’s closing thoughts: The addictive, fulfilling experience of mountain biking and the supportive community at RideBHM
- Outro: Carrie Rollwagen thanks the audience and provides podcast production details.
Find full show notes, including links mentioned in this episode, at carrierollwagen.com.
Carrie Rollwagen