I'm passionate about a lot of things, but it all stems out of a love for my community. That Community could mean BOise. It Could mean idaho. Mostly it means wherever people are coming together to creat positive change, and celebrating the beauty that surrounds us.
Here are a few of the things I'm working on...
Executive Director/ Founder: Boise Bicycle Project
This is my day job, and my life's work. I believe that Boise has the potential to become the "Bicycle Capital of America." That means a community where everyone regardless of income can enjoy the freedom, opportunity and unparalleled community connection a bicycle can provide. We're doing our darnedest to help it reach that potential one bicycle at a time.
"The Speed Of Discovery" TEDX and PUblic SPeaking
I've been speaking to large groups for years, and in April 2017 I climbed onto the TED stage and gave it everything I had. My goal was to slow people down and introduce them to the "Speed of Discovery." A speed that changed my life and me fall in love with my community.
Please watch the video. If it triggers something real and something meaningful, please SHARE it with your friends and with people you think it could help.
Community Activist
In 2017 I had the honor of emceeing Boise's Public Lands Rally. 1000s gathered on the Capitol steps from across the state, from all political backgrounds, and from all walks of life to show their commitment to preserving our #PublicLands.
Later in the year I helped lead a similar rally for alternative transportation. Again 1000s gathered and I was honored to lead the charge.
Human Rights, LGBTQ, The Refugee Population, Alternative Transportation, The Arts, Housing First, Nonprofits...
I may not be an expert in all of these fields, but I will fight for each of them at a moments notice.
The Max! & Politics?
I know there is a future in the political arena, although I'm not exactly sure what that will look like. I know I want to put myself in a position where I can work with others to create the most positive change. Is that as an elected official?
Right now it's as BBP's Executive Director, and this photo with Idaho Governor Butch Otter shows how much political power that role actually holds. Together with, Treasure Valley Safe Routes to School Coordinator Lisa Brady, and Maximo Wyatt and family we were able to make pedestrian and bicycle questions a requirement on Idaho's statewide drivers ed examine. Through grassroots community efforts like this, we are saving lives and creating a brighter future for Idaho families.
A Podcast About Nonprofit Leadership
Fellow Executive Director (of C.A.T.C.H) and good friend Wyatt Schroeder and I launched a podcast called We All Do Better, on June 7th 2017. Our goal is to share raw moments from nonprofit leaders that will change the way you think about the nonprofit sector. The name comes from the Paul Wellstone quote (that also lives on the top of this website), "We All Do Better When We All Do Better."
We wrapped up Season 1 in summer of 2017. Season 2 launches in January 2018.
Here is one of our most listened to episodes.
Bicycle Capital of America Initiative
Severa; years ago I walked into the Mayor's office with an initiative outlining Boise's pathway to becoming the Bicycle Capital of America. A lot of progress has been made, and the initiative has created some real positive change, but the journey has been slower that I had hoped for. Years later I made an attempt to revive and reenergize the initiative, but it still remains a work in progress. Stay tuned on this one, because I haven't given up.