NBDA: Bicycle Retail Radio: Recent Episodes
National Bicycle Dealers Association
The NBDA’s bicycle industry podcast brings retailers, vendors, advocates, and thought leaders to the mic for honest discussions about the latest issues facing retailers, while taking an in-depth look at the person within the profession. Content that proves relatable and thought producing, directed at exposing real-world tips and information to help retailers find success within the bicycle industry. Get more at NBDA.com.
Steph Allen, National Sales Manager at Giant Bicycle, shares her journey from discovering cycling later in life to building a dynamic career that spans retail, demo programs, and national leadership.
She offers personal insights on what makes a great retail experience, lessons learned from working directly with shops and riders, and advice for retailers looking to grow their business and connect more deeply with their communities.
Support the show
Carina Hamel, co-founder of Bivo, joins Bicycle Retail Radio to share her journey from elite Nordic skiing and athletic product development into building one of cycling’s most recognizable emerging brands.
Carina talks about creating a woman-led business rooted in thoughtful design, sustainability, and inclusivity, along with lessons learned working closely with specialty retailers and building authentic community in the cycling industry.
Support the show
In this episode of Bicycle Retail Radio, we sit down with Michael Potter, Partnerships Director at Bikeflights, fresh off the NBDA Retailer Summit Central in Bentonville, to discuss the latest shipping trends shaping the bike industry, including common e-bike shipping misconceptions, and insight into shipping trends with events and bike travel.
Michael also unveils Bikeflights' new RFID tracking label program, a game-changer for shops dealing with transit delays or lost packages, and shares how retailers can start leveraging shipping as a competitive advantage.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
NBDA Executive Director Heather Mason returns with Bicycle Retailer and Industry News, for the third installment of the BRAIN Quarterly News Hour — breaking down the biggest stories shaping specialty bike retail.
Support the show
Have you hit a wall with your store displays?
Our Retailer Design Flex episode of Bicycle Retail Radio features Brian from Fixture Lab and NBDA President, Heather Mason as they tackle retailer flow and design issues.
Today the team is focused on turning "meh" walls into money walls.
To follow along best with the visuals, watch this episode on our YouTube channel.
Support the show
Join NBDA Executive Director Heather Mason and Brandon Andrews, Director of the Bicycle Technician Program at Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC), for the official launch of the NBDA Certified Bicycle Service Technician Microcredential: a new industry-backed training pathway designed to strengthen bicycle service departments nationwide.
This is designed for professional bicycle technicians seeking to elevate the efficiency, quality, and profitability of their service departments. Through a focused sequence of five skills badges, this program delivers comprehensive training in both technical and operational aspects of modern bicycle service.
During this episode, we’ll walk through the program structure, course details, certifications, and opportunities for your business, as well as how retailers and technicians can enroll today.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
Mountain bike legend Martyn Ashton joins us to talk about his journey, founding RideAble Now, and explains what bike retailers should know about adaptive cycling. Learn more about RideAble Now and how to get involved to make a difference.
This is a practical conversation focused on real steps shops can take to make cycling more accessible.
Support the show
Welcome to Bicycle Retail Radio. We’re glad you're here.
The bicycle industry is facing a real challenge: participation is declining, and while e-bikes have helped reshape who's riding and how, they haven't reversed the long-term trend.
Growing ridership is essential to the future of every bike shop..
That's why the NBDA convenes its Growing Ridership and Retailer Foot Traffic Panel three times a year, bringing together retailers, suppliers, and industry leaders to focus on what's actually working.
This episode features our May 19th panel, where - with the help of some special guests - we tackled two topics.
First: how retailers and brands can capitalize on the momentum in women's sports to grow women's cycling. Our industry friends highlight what real partnerships look like on the ground in New York City.
Second: we shifted to a bigger question: are we too dependent on the bike shop as the entry point for new riders? And how do we meet people where they already are?
It's a rich conversation you won’t want to miss, so let’s go.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
Welcome to Bicycle Retail Radio. What you're about to hear is a recording of the NBDA's Bicycle Industry Retailer & Supplier Best Practices Panel.
The bicycle industry is navigating real headwinds right now — excess inventory, shrinking margins, reduced foot traffic, staffing challenges, and shifting consumer habits. This panel exists to meet those pressures head-on.
Three times a year, the NBDA brings together retailers, suppliers, and industry leaders to share best practices and build collective strategies for stability and growth. Topics come straight from members, and sessions are built around practical solutions you can actually use.
If you'd like to submit a topic or get involved as a panelist, reach out through info@NBDA.com.
Support the show
The NBDA hosts this panel three times a year, bringing together retailers, suppliers, advocacy organizations, and technical experts for focused conversations on lithium-ion battery safety, industry standards, and compliance.
Topics are sourced directly from NBDA members, and each session is designed to deliver practical takeaways you can apply in your shop.
If today's discussion sparks questions or topics you'd like addressed at a future panel, you can submit them at NBDA.com or email us at info@NBDA.com. Now, let's get into it.
Support the show
Our Retailer Design Flex episode of Bicycle Retail Radio features Brian from Fixture Lab and NBDA President, Heather Mason as they tackle retailer flow and design issues.
Today it's the return of Cory Cunard of Bike Central in Le Mars, IA for a follow up episode! Listen in as we summarize the development and build out of this shop space.
To follow along best with the visuals, watch this episode on our YouTube channel.
Support the show
In this in-depth conversation, Mark Vandermolen, Managing Director, and Steven Tenure, Aftermarket & OEM Sales Manager at FSA, share their personal journeys in the cycling industry, dive into FSA and Vision’s product ranges and innovations, and discuss the evolving trends shaping the market, from gravel bikes to 32-inch wheels.
Whether you’re a retailer, mechanic, or cycling enthusiast, discover how FSA approaches product development, industry challenges, and the road ahead.
Support the show
In this episode of Bicycle Retail Radio, Mike Massey, Founder and CEO of Locally, and Justin Kotzmoyer, Retail Activation Manager, explain how riders are shopping in 2026 and how independent bike shops can capture more sales.
They dive into why most purchases start online, how tools like real-time inventory and BOPIS help connect shoppers to local stores, and why broader brand coverage and local search visibility matter.
Discover insights on consumer trends, retailer best practices, and the importance of keeping commerce local to strengthen cycling communities.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
E-bikes are no longer the future of cycling retail, they're the present. And with that growth comes a whole new set of questions retailers need to be ready to answer.
On March 25th, NBDA brought together a panel of industry experts for a wide-ranging conversation on the e-bike landscape:
- what legally and practically defines an e-bike
- how the industry is drawing the line between e-bikes and e-motos
- what retailers need to know about NBDA's advisement on e-motos
- and why rider education might be the most important conversation we're not having enough
This one's packed with practical insight and some real talk from people on the front lines of this shift.
Let's get into it.
Support the show
Beth Black, e-bike safety advocate, former retailer, and Board Member of the American Bicycling Education Association, joins Bicycle Retail Radio to discuss cycling education, community safety, and the evolving role of retailers in the e-bike era.
From The Bellemont Project and the Incline Program to practical shop-floor best practices and women’s leadership in cycling, this episode offers actionable insights for retailers navigating today’s e-bike landscape.
- Contact: BellemontProject@gmail.com
- Facebook: @BellemontProject
- Instagram: @coachbethblack
Support the show
Tariff Rulings, Import Declines, and the E-Moto Reckoning
NBDA Executive Director Heather Mason returns with Steve Frothingham, Editor in Chief of Bicycle Retailer and Industry News, for the second installment of the BRAIN Quarterly News Hour — breaking down the biggest stories shaping specialty bike retail in March 2026.
Steve and Heather dig into the Supreme Court's tariff ruling and why most of the industry shouldn't expect immediate relief, which brands have filed suit to recover tariff payments, and the surprising political firestorm that followed. They also unpack a sobering new data point: the customs value of U.S. bike imports fell below $1 billion for the first time since 2006 — and what tariffs, inventory overhang, and e-bike data may or may not change about that picture.
Then the conversation turns to what Steve calls the biggest story facing the industry right now: e-motos and e-bike legislation. From New Jersey's sweeping new law already rattling retailers before it takes effect, to retailer insurance liability for Class 3 and beyond, to how NBDA, People for Bikes, and the Bike League are building a proactive legislative toolkit — this is a must-listen for every shop owner.
Support the show
Join Strider Bikes’ Jennifer Crawford, Customer Experience Manager, and Kent Jacobs, Product Manager, as they discuss how Strider supports dealers, grows youth cycling, and advocates for fun-first riding experiences.
From the Strider Rider Fund to strategies for expanding your kids bike department, discover practical tips to engage families and develop the next generation of cyclists.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
In this episode, we chat with Peter Arlein, Founder and CEO of mountainFLOW, about his plant-based ski and bike products, including waxes, lubes, and water bottles that deliver high performance without harmful petrochemicals.
Peter shares the journey of building a Certified B Corp, lessons learned from both ski and bike retail, and how mountainFLOW is helping retailers integrate sustainable, eco-friendly products. We discuss the company’s mission, product innovation, and strategies for shops to engage riders who care about performance and preserving the environment they love to ride in.
Support the show
Want a gut check on what's happening outside of the industry? It's here.
Our Retailer Design Flex episode of Bicycle Retail Radio features Brian from Fixture Lab and NBDA President, Heather Mason as they tackle retailer flow and design issues.
In this episode, we dive into the power of storytelling and customer experience with the team at CX-STORY. CX-STORY was born from a belief that brands don’t just sell products—they create stories, memories, and experiences.
Together, we explore CX-STORY’s unique creative roots, its double-meaning heritage of “CX,” and how decades of experience through their founding company, Color-X, have shaped their approach to building immersive brand experiences. Expect a conversation that goes beyond selling and into creating meaningful, human-centered experiences that truly resonate.
Learn more: https://www.cx-story.co/
Support the show
In this episode of Bicycle Retail Radio, SRAM Midwest Regional Field Guide Manager Dan Jennings and Technical Field Guide Sean Owen guide retailers through four key areas to focus on this spring: assessing service profitability, building a smarter service inventory, refining service menu pricing and value, and optimizing physical service space and workflow.
Packed with practical tips and actionable insights, the conversation gives shops the tools they need to strengthen their service operations and drive profitability.
Support the show
NBDA Executive Director Heather Mason and Programs Developer Megan Schmidt dive into the 2026 Retailer Summit series. From agenda design and industry partnerships to what makes each location unique, learn why these collaborative events are more important than ever for bike shops navigating growth, uncertainty, and opportunity.
NBDA Retailer Summit West: March 16 – 17, Plaza Hotel, Las Vegas
NBDA Retailer Summit Central: June 9 – 11, Bentonville, Arkansas
NBDA Retailer Summit Canada: July 29 – 30, Whistler
Support the show
Today on Bicycle Retail Radio we’re joined by the team from woom bikes to discuss the the brand’s origin story, core values, and thoughtfully designed superlight bikes built specifically for kids.
Plus, the team shares insights on growing the youth bike category, supporting retailers, advocacy initiatives, and what’s next for families and shops in this fun and rewarding segment.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
This episode is our recap of our January 6th advocacy panel. Listen in as industry experts meet, discuss and address retailer risks, concerns, and best practices regarding the full spectrum of lithium-ion batteries and e-mobility devices safety, standards, and compliance.
Support the show
Kenny Belaey and Nat Ross return to preview the biggest Bentonville Bike Fest yet, featuring the new OZ Trails Bike Park, an expanded Gravelicious route, and enhanced exhibitor experiences. They discuss the festival's global reach, why retailers shouldn't miss the convergence with NBDA Summit Central, and what's driving year-over-year growth in this cycling destination.
Support the show
The Quality Bicycle Products renowned industry event is back! Frostbike will take place at its company headquarters in Minneapolis, February 26–28, 2026.
Bill Schouman, VP of Sales at Q, joins us today to give a preview of this high impact bike industry event that connects hundreds of retailers, supplier brands, and thought leaders.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
Learn how to plan your remodel at your retail store - what it takes for planning, what resources to use, how much time you need allotted.
- Budget form
- Store evaluation
Our Retailer Design Flex episode of Bicycle Retail Radio features Brian from Fixture Lab and NBDA President, Heather Mason as they tackle retailer flow and design issues.
Support the show
In this episode, we sit down with Charlie Thomas: bike racer, mechanic, lawyer, and owner of Bayou Bicycles in New Orleans.
Charlie shares more about his unique legal background and Bike Law and his approach to running a bike shop, advocating for cycling safety, and fostering a vibrant cycling community. Tune in for an engaging discussion on liability, product safety, expanding business models, and more.
Support the show
This week we're revisiting our Retailer & Supplier Best Practices Panel from October to learn tips from both retailer and supplier business.
This panel is part of the NBDA's initiative to unite industry experts to circulate best practices that align the industry.
A special thanks to sponsors Ride E-Z for your partnership.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
The NBDA Women in the Bicycle Industry (WIBI) program serves as a dynamic, all-encompassing platform to support, elevate, and connect women working in all areas of the cycling industry. With a focus on recruitment, mentorship, professional development, community-building, and celebration, this initiative serves as a cornerstone in fostering equity, retention, and opportunity.
This July's virtual career fair was dedicated to recruiting and retaining women in the bicycle industry. Hear stories about roles in retail, sales, product development, advocacy, and more.
Support the show
Are you using AI in your bike shop?
This week's episode of Bicycle Retail Radio features Jason Ford of The New Wheel. Learn how they're utilizing AI and how you can utilize new tools in your business.
Support the show
How do you track your returns after a store remodel? In the off season, explore if remodel and remerchandising makes sense with Brian and Heather.
Our Retailer Design Flex episode of Bicycle Retail Radio features Brian from Fixture Lab and NBDA President, Heather Mason as they tackle retailer flow and design issues.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
Episode 1: Manufacturing Upheaval, Tariff Tensions, and the Stories Shaping Bike Retail
The inaugural episode of our quarterly news review series with Steve Frothingham, Editor in Chief of Bicycle Retailer Industry News. In this wide-ranging conversation, Steve shares his journey to the helm of the industry's leading trade publication and discusses how BRAIN operates under Outside Inc. ownership.
This episode dives deep into two of the most consequential stories from fall 2025: the shocking CBP announcement regarding Giant Manufacturing and allegations of forced labor, and Blaupunkt's strategic move to assemble e-bikes in North Carolina. Steve provides exclusive insights into how these stories broke, what they mean for retailers, and the broader implications of tariffs and supply chain shifts facing the bicycle industry.
Whether you're a bike shop owner navigating uncertain trade policies or an industry professional trying to stay ahead of the curve, this conversation delivers the context and analysis you need. Plus, Steve looks ahead to the stories that will dominate the rest of 2025 and into 2026.
Support the show
In this episode of Bicycle Retail Radio, we sit down with the leadership team at eBliss Global: Chairman & CEO Bill Klehm, Vice President Steve Richey, and National Sales Manager Tom Roth.
The team shares insights on their new $4.1 million e-bike assembly facility in Utica, New York, why domestic production matters, and how eBliss is supporting retailers with U.S.-assembled e-bikes. Tune in for an inside look at eBliss’s mission to reshape green transportation and the opportunities this brings for bike shops across the country.
Support the show
The NBDA provides a quarterly platform for industry experts to meet, discuss and address retailer risks, concerns, and best practices regarding lithium-ion batteries and e-mobility devices safety, standards, and compliance.
Listen to this week's episode of Bicycle Retail Radio, our most recent E-Bike Safety & Standards Panel.
Support the show
In this episode of Bicycle Retail Radio, we sit down with Chad Smith, Vice President of HLC US, and Patrick McGinnis, CEO of HLC, one of the bike industry’s leading distributors.
We explore how HLC is evolving in a rapidly changing market, from inventory strategies to simplification to data-driven partnerships, and how keeping retailers at the center of their mission informs these decisions. With a focus on wins, lessons, and opportunities, this conversation delivers practical takeaways for every shop looking to thrive in challenging times.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
In this episode of Bicycle Retail Radio, we welcome back Stephen “Phunky” Proffitt, Technical Account Manager at Bosch eBike Systems. Stephen shares what’s new in the 2025 Bosch Dealer Training Tour, including in-person and virtual options designed to certify shop staff and introduce fresh curriculum.
We explore how training helps shops tackle service challenges and prepare for the future of ebike retail and repair.
View all Dealer Training Tour dates.
Support the show
With tighter margins and communication expectations evolve, it’s never been more important to meet customers where they are.
In this episode, Yan Lee, Affiliate Manager at Zidy, shares how smart retailers are moving beyond static websites to create fast, personal, and effective communication-plus, hear practical tips for engaging new riders and digital-first shoppers.
Support the show
In this episode of Bicycle Retail Radio, Mike Gann, President of LOOK Cycle USA, reflects on his leadership experience across major bike brands and LOOK’s forward-facing IBD strategy.
He discusses LOOK’s iconic legacy and product strategy, the brand’s unique approach to supporting retailers, and actionable advice for shops looking to grow their businesses. Tune in to hear Mike’s insights on navigating today’s market and how LOOK Cycle USA is partnering with retailers to ride confidently into the future.
Support the show
Keep your to-do list short this week. Brian and Heather review the 5 things you should do for your business.
Our Retailer Design Flex episode of Bicycle Retail Radio features Brian from Fixture Lab and NBDA President, Heather Mason as they tackle retailer flow and design issues.
Support the show
Summer season is coming to a close. Listen to our News Hour recap to catch up on industry news from our friends at Human Powered Solutions.
We use this episode to recap the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
Support the show
Listen to our July Best Practices panel this week on Bicycle Retail Radio.
The NBDA is holding quarterly forum style meetings on Retailer & Supplier Best Practices. The NBDA wishes to unite industry experts in a panel discussion to circulate best practices to align the industry. During the meeting, the NBDA organized panel will talk through an agenda on various topics.
Support the show
Missed our Growing Ridership panel this July? Listen now in this week's Bicycle Retail Radio episode.
This panel brings proactive thoughts on solutions that could facilitate growth in ridership numbers and a return to cycling. Panel lead members have been organized to represent retailers, suppliers, and select industry experts, all who have committed to being proactive and opting to take part in this forum and to provide actionable items for the industry at large to take initiative on through all media outlets and related messaging.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
In this episode, we sit down with Suzette Ayotte, founder and owner of MINT socks, to talk about her evolution in the cycling industry and what inspired her to launch her own brand. After decades as an inside sales rep, marketing director, and PR firm owner, Suzette now designs and delivers premium Italian-made socks to shops across the country.
She shares why personal connections with retailers matter and how she brings purpose to every part of her business. It’s a conversation about reinvention, resilience, and making every phone call count.
Support the show
In this episode, Lifan Irwin and Michael Potter from Bikeflights reveal how their innovative shipping platform makes sending bikes faster, easier, and more reliable for both retailers and riders.
They discuss new features, best practices, and strategies that help shops streamline shipping, enhance customer experience, and drive profitability. Listeners will learn how Bikeflights is shaping the future of bike shipping with seamless integrations and comprehensive retailer support.
Support the show
Today we sit down with Rob Kaplan, Head of Sales and Marketing at Bulls Bikes USA. With over 30 years in the cycling industry, Rob is widely respected for his thoughtful leadership and big picture vision.
He shares insights from his extensive career, his current work at Bulls, and offers valuable guidance for retailers navigating today’s challenges and ebike opportunities in bicycle retail.
Support the show
Listen to our monthly News Hour episode with Human Powered Solutions team. We recap high priority headlines for specialty retailers so you can stay informed!
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
Catch up on the state of the US Bicycle Industry with the recording of our engaging 60-minute webinar. Our panel explored the current state and future outlook of the US bicycle industry. Listen to key voices from across the industry:
Bill Schouman, Vice President of Sales, QBP — Offering insight into supply chain trends and market dynamics from one of the nation’s leading distributors.
Bob Margevicius, Senior Advisor, Specialized Bicycle Components — Sharing supplier-side perspective on the industry's biggest challenges and how retailers can prepare for success in 2026.
Paul Tobio, Owner, Ryder Bikes (Bradenton, FL) — Delivering a retailer’s take on today’s landscape, including key challenges, opportunities, and strategies for growth in 2025 and beyond.
Matt Moore, General and Policy Counsel, PeopleForBikes — Providing an advocacy and policy lens on the future of cycling and initiatives to support industry-wide growth.
Together, this panel discusses where the industry has been, the trends shaping it today, and what lies ahead. Viewers will walk away with actionable strategies to navigate market shifts, optimize operations, and drive ridership.
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from top industry leaders and position your business for a successful year.
Support the show
Is Brian saying the mall is full of perfect merchandising ideas? No. "But it is a good concentration of retailers."
Take some tips from the giants in this Retailer Design Flex episode.
Our Retailer Design Flex episode of Bicycle Retail Radio features Brian from Fixture Lab and NBDA President, Heather Mason as they tackle retailer flow and design issues.
Support the show
What started as kids’ bike camps during the COVID boom has grown into one of Colorado’s most exciting and community-driven bike shops. In this episode, Jenny and DJ Johnson of CyclErie share how they built a customer first, ego free business—from mobile fulfillment to selling over 1,200 eBikes in a year. It’s a story of creativity, grit, and keeping the joy of cycling at the heart of it all.
Support the show
Send us a text
Missed out on the last E Bike Safety & Standards panel? Listen in for this week's Bicycle Retail Radio episode.
The NBDA provides a quarterly platform for industry experts to meet, discuss and address retailer risks, concerns, and best practices regarding lithium-ion batteries and e-mobility devices safety, standards, and compliance.
Segments addressed:
- Lithium-Ion Battery topics- Standards and Certifications, standardized policy on shipping, receiving, storage, maintaining, charging, selling, and servicing.
- Insurance Coverages
- Supplier Best Practices
- Retailer Best Practices
- Recycling Best Practices
- Consumer Education
Support the show
Send us a text
In this episode of Bicycle Retail Radio, we sit down with Nicole Poko, artist, cyclist, and owner of Scout’s Coffee Bar + Mercantile in New Jersey. Nicole shares how creativity, intentional space design, and deep community connections help fuel her small business success.
We dive into her unique approach to blending coffee culture with the local cycling scene, building inclusive spaces, and offering practical advice for small business owners looking to grow and thrive.
Support the show
Send us a text
Ed Fischer, a Commercial Real Estate Broker and former bike shop owner, to explore a game-changing topic for independent bike retailers: owning your building.
Ed shares practical, insightful advice about the path to ownership, the financial and strategic benefits of buying, and how shop owners can start planning now, even if it feels out of reach.
Contact Ed Fischer
Support the show
Send us a text
Our Flex episode this week covers how to unlock extra revenue in your service department.
Support the show
Send us a text
In this episode, we sit down with Charly Tri, owner of My Bike Guy Bicycle Services in Rochester, Minnesota. From racing the Iditarod to launching a successful mobile bike shop, Charly shares how his lifelong passion for cycling shaped his unique business model. Tune in for insights on profitability, service, and why mobile shops might just be the future of bike retail.
Support the show
Send us a text
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA at any time with ANY questions about the bicycle service center, mechanics training, bicycle assembly, etc. Submit your questions and photos to heather@nbda.com
Our newest edition to Bicycle Retail Radio, the Technician Flex is a recurring podcast feature focused specifically on service center and mechanics produced in partnership with NBDA educational partner Northwest Arkansas Community College's Bicycle Assembly & Repair Technician Program director Benjamin Glenn.
Support the show
Send us a text
In this episode, Bikeflights Vice President Sue George and Partnership Team member Ali Goulet share insights into how Bikeflights supports bike shops with specialized shipping services, packaging solutions, and e-commerce tools.
They discuss how their mission to strengthen the bike community is embedded in their partnerships, and explain the key benefits retailers can access, from streamlined shipping to revenue-generating programs like Shop Finder and affiliate referrals. The conversation also highlights trends in bike shipping and best practices for labeling, packaging e-bikes, and more!
Support the show
Send us a text
Today on the Friday Flex episode: Your people are the brand. Let's look at building a team that lives your shop's culture.
Support the show
Send us a text
Listen to our monthly News Hour episode with Human Powered Solutions team. We recap high priority headlines for specialty retailers so you can stay informed!
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
Send us a text
This week's Flex episode is about creating community using social media. Enjoy!
Support the show
Send us a text
In this episode, we chat with Mathias Ellegiers and Ryan Liverman, founder of REMCO Tools, about their innovative Bike Lift—a motorized bicycle repair stand designed for enthusiasts, professional mechanics, and bike shops.
With decades of engineering and design expertise, Mathias and Ryan share how REMCO is redefining bicycle service with a product that can handle almost any bike shape or size.
We discuss the company's journey, future plans, and how they’re making bike repairs more accessible, comfortable, and efficient for everyone in the cycling world.
Support the show
Send us a text
Listen in to this week's Flex episode: 5 questions with Zidy.
Support the show
Send us a text
In this episode, we chat with Ryan Elson, CEO of bikebook, about his background in the industry and background in founding the company. Ryan shares how bikebook empowers mechanics and bike shops by boosting online visibility, simplifying service booking, and creating stronger connections with customers.
We also dive into the platform’s expansion into the U.S. market and his advice for shops navigating today’s evolving industry landscape.
Ryan Elson contact: ryan@bikebook.co.uk
Support the show
Send us a text
Today we have 5 questions with buycycle.
https://buycycle.com/en-us/nbdadiscount
Support the show
Send us a text
The NBDA is holding quarterly forum style meetings on Retailer & Supplier Best Practices. The NBDA wishes to unite industry experts in a panel discussion to circulate best practices to align the industry. During the meeting, the NBDA organized panel will talk through an agenda on various topics.
Listen to our April 15th panel in this BRR episode.
Support the show
Send us a text
Why should customers do business with you?
What makes your store unique?
What is your brand story?
Need help with your answers? This episode is for you.
Our Retailer Design Flex episode of Bicycle Retail Radio features Brian from Fixture Lab and NBDA President, Heather Mason as they tackle retailer flow and design issues.
Support the show
Send us a text
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
Send us a text
Get tips on how to bring people in for service NOW on this week's Friday Flex.
Support the show
Send us a text
This episode’s guest is Anthony Mikrut, National Sales Manager at BikeCo, who takes us behind the scenes of the company and shares how they support independent bike dealers.
We discuss BikeCo’s portfolio of iconic brands, their approach to warranty management, navigating the direct-to-consumer challenge, and what makes top-performing dealers successful. Tune in for a deeper look at how BikeCo is adapting to the evolving cycling industry and helping retailers thrive.
Support the show
Send us a text
This week's Friday Flex focuses on service center profitability. Listen for some quick tips!
Support the show
Send us a text
This episode’s guest is Mike Carr, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at INTENSE, to explore the brand's storied history of innovation and focus on building future success.
From its humble beginnings in the 1990s with founder and CEO Jeff Steber crafting aluminum frames in his garage, to developing performance-proven carbon models, INTENSE has always been focused on “form and function."
Mike shares how that spirit of craftsmanship and performance continues to drive the company’s evolution in today’s challenging landscape, along with the exciting new IBD-focused initiatives to reshape the future of retail partnerships.
Support the show
Send us a text
Did you miss our last Growing Ridership Panel? Listen to the recap on this week's Friday Flex.
The NBDA is holding quarterly forum style meetings on Growing Ridership and Retailer Foot Traffic. The NBDA wishes to unite industry experts in a panel discussion to circulate best practices to align the industry. During the meeting, the NBDA organized panel will talk through an agenda on various topics.
Support the show
Send us a text
In this episode, Tony Steward, owner of The Bike Lab, shares how the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) can help bike shop owners regain focus, build stronger teams, and break through growth barriers to achieve lasting success.
Tony explains why EOS is more than just another business trend—it’s a proven system that simplifies operations and helps you focus on what truly matters. If you’re ready to move beyond "fire-fighting" mode and build the bike shop you've always envisioned, this conversation is a must-listen.
Support the show
Send us a text
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA at any time with ANY questions about the bicycle service center, mechanics training, bicycle assembly, etc. Submit your questions and photos to heather@nbda.com
Our newest edition to Bicycle Retail Radio, the Technician Flex is a recurring podcast feature focused specifically on service center and mechanics produced in partnership with NBDA educational partner Northwest Arkansas Community College's Bicycle Assembly & Repair Technician Program director Benjamin Glenn.
Support the show
Send us a text
The NBDA provides a quarterly platform for industry experts to meet, discuss and address retailer risks, concerns, and best practices regarding lithium-ion batteries and e-mobility devices safety, standards, and compliance. Listen to our December 10th panel in this episode.
Support the show
Send us a text
This week's Flex we're talking about Inventory Turn: what it is, and how you can implement it more in your store.
Support the show
Send us a text
This episode’s guests are SRAM Technical Field Guide Sean Owen and Midwest Regional Manager Dan Jennings for an actionable discussion about service center add-on sales and modernizing service packages.
They’ll share valuable insights on how retailers can enhance customer experience, drive profitability, and adapt to the evolving landscape of bicycle service. Tune in for expert tips on building stronger connections with customers and adding value to every service transaction.
Support the show
Send us a text
Our Friday Flex is a shorter episode with quick business tips for specialty bicycle retailers. This week Heather covers mastering inventory cycle counts in your bike shop.
Support the show
Send us a text
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
Send us a text
It's a quick hit Friday Flex covering key takeaways from our Consumer Research report!
Support the show
Send us a text
Today is a Bicycle Retail Radio recap of our State of the Canadian Bicycle Industry webinar.
In case you missed it, listen in to this 60-minute webinar exploring the current state and future outlook of the Canadian bicycle industry. This expert panel discussion featured:
- Patrick Duquet, Commercial Logistics Manager and Edward Wright, Vice President, Canada from HLC, a leading distributor with valuable insights into supply chain trends and market dynamics.
- William Leishman, President & Founder of Scooteretti, a retailer who will provide a unique perspective on the retailer outlook, including challenges, opportunities, and strategies for success in 2025.
- Dane Stennes, Owner, Western Cycle, a retailer who will provide a unique perspective on the retailer outlook, including challenges, opportunities, and strategies for success in 2025.
- Samuel Benoit, Executive Director of Vélo Canada Bikes, offering an advocacy lens on policy changes and industry-wide growth initiatives.
This conversation was a comprehensive analysis of where the industry has been, key trends shaping the present, and strategies to prepare for a strong 2025. Gain actionable insights to navigate market shifts, optimize operations, and drive ridership in Canada.
Support the show
Send us a text
How can you reinvest in your business by doing a simple clean up? Heather has some ideas.
Support the show
Send us a text
Kenny Belaey, founder of Bentonville Bike Fest, joins us to discuss this year’s event, including the debut of E-Mobility Day, the NBDA Retailer Summit, and exciting new activities.
He shares how the festival has evolved, the challenges it faces, and what makes Bentonville a top cycling destination. Tune in for an inside look at this year’s festival!
Support the show
Send us a text
Introducing our first retailer guest on the Retailer Design Flex: Bike Central.
Our Retailer Design Flex episode of Bicycle Retail Radio features Brian from Fixture Lab and NBDA President, Heather Mason as they tackle retailer flow and design issues.
For the best experience, watch this episode and more at our YouTube channel.
Support the show
Send us a text
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
Send us a text
Fall in love with the transaction increase efforts this week!
Support the show
Send us a text
Christina B. Baanders-Decker, owner of Midwest Cyclery in Kansas City, shares her journey of running a family-owned bike shop for nearly a decade.
We discuss the challenges of adapting to the changing cycling landscape, balancing passion with financial decisions, and the strong community ties that make her shop more than just a business.
Support the show
Send us a text
This episode NBDA President Heather Mason talks about what it means to "eat the frog" and how a crazy phrase can help transform productivity.
Support the show
Send us a text
We held our first quarterly forum style meeting on Growing Ridership and Retailer Foot Traffic this past January. This week we're featuring the recording as the NBDA wishes to unite industry experts in a panel discussion to circulate best practices to align the industry.
Support the show
Send us a text
This week's Flex episode is the recording of our 2024 annual meeting. Listen in to hear what we accomplished over the past year, staff and board introductions, and a forecast for 2025.
Support the show
Send us a text
The NBDA provides a quarterly platform for industry experts to meet, discuss and address retailer risks, concerns, and best practices regarding lithium-ion batteries and e-mobility devices safety, standards, and compliance. Listen to our December 10th panel in this episode.
Support the show
Send us a text
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA at any time with ANY questions about the bicycle service center, mechanics training, bicycle assembly, etc. Submit your questions and photos to heather@nbda.com
Our newest edition to Bicycle Retail Radio, the Technician Flex is a recurring podcast feature focused specifically on service center and mechanics produced in partnership with NBDA educational partner Northwest Arkansas Community College's Bicycle Assembly & Repair Technician Program director Benjamin Glenn.
Support the show
Send us a text
Our guest today is Joshua F., President of the National Youth Bike Council, a youth-led nonprofit dedicated to empowering young people and equipping them with the tools, leadership skills, and role models they need to become leaders in their communities.
Joshua shares the inspiring story of how the council was formed, its mission to amplify youth voices in cycling, and its vision for creating a stronger, more inclusive cycling culture across North America. We dive into why bicycle retailers play a vital role in supporting youth cycling and explore actionable tips for retailers to engage with young riders and foster lasting connections.
Whether you're a retailer, an advocate, or a cycling enthusiast, this episode will leave you inspired to champion the next generation of riders and leaders. Don’t miss it!
Support the show
Send us a text
Today's guest is Carina Hamel, founder of Bivo and a passionate advocate for sustainability, cycling, and healthier living.
In this episode, we dive into Bivo’s innovative approach to reducing waste in the cycling industry and the science behind ditching plastic.
We’ll explore how Bivo partners with retailers, tips to grow bottle sales, and a glimpse into the future of hydration technology. Whether you're a retailer, cyclist, or sustainability enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.
Support the show
Send us a text
This weeks' episode features how to boost your income stream by offering bike rentals.
Support the show
Send us a text
In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Amanda Carey, President of the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA), to explore the powerful ways NICA and local bike retailers can work together to inspire and support the next generation of cyclists.
NICA's programs are bringing thousands of youth into the sport, and this conversation will give bike shop owners a deeper understanding of how they can join this movement to grow ridership, drive in-store traffic, and build loyal relationships with young riders and their families.
Support the show
Send us a text
This week's Friday Flex focuses on how to boost your bike rental income.
Support the show
Send us a text
In this exclusive interview, CABDA Show Director Jim Kersten shares insights into the upcoming 2025 CABDA East, Midwest, and West shows.
We dive into his thoughts on the state of the bike industry, the decision to host CABDA West in Las Vegas, exciting programming highlights, the Sales Rep of the Year contest, and his call to action for the industry. Plus, learn what makes these events a must-attend for retailers and suppliers alike.
Support the show
Send us a text
How does your first impression look?
Learn what makes a good retailer window in this special episode of Bicycle Retail Radio. Our Retail Design Flex features Brian from Fixture Lab and NBDA President, Heather Mason.
For the best experience, watch this episode and more at our YouTube channel.
Support the show
Send us a text
Enjoy this end of year recap with our friends at Human Powered Solutions.
Once a month they come on the show to recap their Micromobility Reporter and today we're talking about what to expect as we transition into 2025.
Support the show
Send us a text
A holiday poem for our listeners from NBDA President, Heather Mason.
Support the show
Send us a text
This episode’s guests are Stefan Guelpen, Head of Global Sales at Saris Cycling Group, Darren Snyder, Director of Product for Cycling, and Chris Bauch, Director of Product for Infrastructure, to explore Saris’s mission, dedication to retailers, and exciting new innovations in racks, trainers, and storage solutions.
The conversation shares strategies for retailers to increase sales, showcases Saris’s best-selling racks and trainers, and discusses the brand’s goal of supporting dealers with training and product insights. Listen in for a sneak peek at upcoming product tech and Saris’s plans for the CABDA show.
Support the show
Send us a text
This week's Friday Retailer Flex features 5 questions BikeInsure.
Support the show
Send us a text
This episode’s guest is Brian Crowe, Lead Suspension Technician, Conte’s Bicycle. Conte’s is a well known retailer with multiple locations spanning the East Coast.
This conversation highlights key points regarding their view and operations on suspension service and aims to inspire other retailers by showcasing how Conte’s implementation has impacted net profits and customer satisfaction.
Support the show
Send us a text
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA at any time with ANY questions about the bicycle service center, mechanics training, bicycle assembly, etc. Submit your questions and photos to heather@nbda.com
Our newest edition to Bicycle Retail Radio, the Technician Flex is a recurring podcast feature focused specifically on service center and mechanics produced in partnership with NBDA educational partner Northwest Arkansas Community College's Bicycle Assembly & Repair Technician Program director Benjamin Glenn.
Support the show
Send us a text
This episode’s guest is Stephen “Phunky” Proffitt, Bosch’s expert in Service and Training, for an exclusive deep dive into the latest in e-bike education, service insights, and MY25 innovations.
In this episode, Stephen shares how Bosch’s robust training programs—both in-person and online—are designed to equip bicycle retailers with the skills and knowledge to excel in a rapidly evolving industry. Discover what’s new in Bosch’s MY25 product line, including the latest CX drive units and collaborations with brands like Santa Cruz, and learn how dealer feedback directly influences Bosch’s product development.
This episode is packed with valuable takeaways to help retailers stay ahead in the e-bike space and create exceptional customer experiences. Tune in to learn how Bosch’s commitment to education and innovation can empower your shop to succeed.
Support the show
Send us a text
Today we have a message of thanks from our NBDA President, Heather Mason. May all of our members and those in the industry have a happy holiday season!
Support the show
Send us a text
It's Thanksgiving for our U.S. members this week and we remain thankful for the team at Human Powered Solutions.
Once a month they come on the show to recap their Micromobility Reporter and today is the day.
This episode of Bicycle Retail Radio Podcast is sponsored by Zidy. Zidy helps bike shops connect with more customers and enhances communication through SMS.
Support the show
Send us a text
This week's flex is about going all in on small business. Happy Friday, listeners!
Support the show
Send us a text
This episode’s guest is Scott Roth, Founder & Director of Bike and Sol. Bike & Sol, a bicycle repair shop and non-profit organization, in East Greenville, Pennsylvania, is dedicated to helping people enjoy the ride of their lives. Whether you're looking for a new bike, need repairs, or want to learn how to ride, Bike & Sol is the place for you.
They also offer a variety of programs to help the community, such as bike safety classes and bike donations. Scott is a man on a mission, and I was thrilled to chat with him. Learn all about the history of Bike and Sol and how to create a more community-focused and mission-driven business.
Support the show
Send us a text
This week's Friday Flex is all about driving gift card sales.
Support the show
Send us a text
This episode's guest is Mark Egeland, General Manager and Partner at Catrike. Catrike is renowned for its innovative and high-quality recumbent trikes, proudly made in the USA.
In this episode, we discuss the fascinating history of Catrike, benefits and appeal of recumbent trikes, tips for retailers on selling recumbent trikes, how Catrike supports retailers with marketing and sales tools.
Tune in for valuable insights!
Support the show
Send us a text
This week's episode we're doing 6 Questions with Michael Keating of Tempo.
Support the show
Send us a text
In this episode, NBDA President Heather Mason sits down with Chase Wagstaff, founder of SNO-GO, to dive into the story behind the innovative snow bike company.
They discuss the origins of SNO-GO, its growth in the U.S. market, and the unique ways the company collaborates with bicycle retailers. Chase explains how partnering with SNO-GO can help retailers diversify their product offerings during the off-season and increase rental revenue.
Whether you’re looking for new sales opportunities or simply curious about the snow bike industry, this episode offers valuable insights for retailers eager to grow year-round.
Support the show
Send us a text
Did you miss the most recent Bicycle Industry Retailer & Supplier Best Practices Panel? This episode is the full panel audio.
The NBDA holds quarterly forum style meetings on Retailer & Supplier Best Practices. The NBDA wishes to unite industry experts in a panel discussion to circulate best practices to align the industry. During the meeting, the NBDA organized panel talks through an agenda on various topics.
All Forums are recorded and posted on the NBDA YouTube Channel.
Topics addressed:
- Supplier Health - inventory, dealer programs, sales channels, advertising, retailer relations
- Retailer Health- cash flow, operational expense, cost of doing business, vendor relations, sales training
- D2C & E Commerce
- Human Resources
- Ridership Numbers
- Marketing Cycling in General
- Change in Consumer Spending Habits
Support the show
Send us a text
This episode’s guest is Bill Schouman, VP of Sales at Quality Bicycle Products. As the largest distributor of bicycle products in North America, Quality Bicycle Products (QBP) navigated the pandemic whiplash by staying true to its core values: Be a True Partner, Create Something Special, Deliver Greatness, Keep the Customer First and Act with Integrity.
Learn actionable insights through engaging discussion with an industry leader who vitally connects more than 5,500 independent bicycle retailers with the largest assortment of leading supplier brands.
Support the show
Send us a text
Our Retail Design Flex is a special content feature we do with our friends at Fixture Lab. Listen in as Brian and Heather discuss how to make the most of a small shop.
Be sure to catch this episode on our YouTube channel for full Halloween effect!
Support the show
Send us a text
Our guest today is Stephen “Phunky” Proffitt, eBike Technical Service Specialist.
Bosch eBike Systems is known for top-of-the-line safety and performance. Motors, displays, batteries, digital services: their eBike systems are fully networked and can be found in over 100 eBike brands. This conversation is all about safety when it comes to the eBike space and what sets Bosch eBike Systems apart.
Reference Links:
- https://www.bosch-ebike.com/us/service/battery-safety#c434277
- https://www.bosch-ebike.com/us/news/12-questions-about-the-ebike-battery
Support the show
Send us a text
This episode is made possible by NBDA member Zidy. Learn more about how Zidy can change your business at Zidy.com.
Heather reviews tips on managing inventory and staffing during peak holiday times
Support the show
Send us a text
This episode’s guest is Jim Mincher, Founder and Owner of Two Wheeler Dealer in Wilmington NC.
Celebrating over 50 years in the business, at least 80% of Jim's time is spent on the sales floor, so that he can promote his philosophy that bikes are fun and that the buyer needs to be happy.
We talk about business success and longevity, customer service, family business and the exit plan. ...lots of great nuggets for other retailers. Let's get started!
Support the show
Send us a text
This episode is made possible by NBDA member Zidy. Learn more about how Zidy can change your business at Zidy.com.
We're on today to discuss holiday retail trends and tips! Is your shop ready for the holiday season?
Support the show
Send us a text
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
Send us a text
Making the most of Halloween! Some quick tips for bicycle retailers.
Support the show
Send us a text
Our guests today are Derek Paulson, director of finance and supply planning and George Lee, head of sales at Rad Power Bikes. Rad has a rich history in the e-bike space. 16 plus years of innovation sets the brand apart. It's why they are an undisputed industry leader.
In this conversation today, we chat about the company's history, current sales channels focus, current e-bike landscape, trends, and tips. Lots here, including why you as a retailer should consider becoming a rad power bikes dealer.
I hope you enjoy it. Such a great time to have George back on the podcast and get to know Derek as well. Enjoy.
Support the show
Send us a text
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA at any time with ANY questions about the bicycle service center, mechanics training, bicycle assembly, etc. Submit your questions and photos to heather@nbda.com
Our newest edition to Bicycle Retail Radio, the Technician Flex is a recurring podcast feature focused specifically on service center and mechanics produced in partnership with NBDA educational partner Northwest Arkansas Community College's Bicycle Assembly & Repair Technician Program director Benjamin Glenn. https://www.nwacc.edu/academicdivisions/trailstrades/bicycletechnician/
Support the show
Send us a text
Our guests today are
- Darren Campbell: Bicycle Group President
- Todd Schmidt: Director of Sales
- John Thomas: Engineering Manager
- and Joshua Riddle: Marketing Manager at Hayes Bicycle Group
Hayes has a storied history in the brake space, we chat about the company's origins, technology, current landscape and what customer data and trends can show us.
Support the show
Send us a text
The NBDA provides a quarterly platform for industry experts to meet, discuss and address retailer risks, concerns, and best practices regarding lithium-ion batteries and e-mobility devices safety, standards, and compliance.
Listen in to September's panel.
Support the show
Send us a text
Our Flex episode this week covers the role of technology in enhancing the retail experience.
Support the show
Send us a text
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
Send us a text
It's signage day on our Friday Flex. Listen in as Ryan and Heather tackle tips and problems for our retailers.
Support the show
Send us a text
This episode’s guests are Danielle Walter Nolan and Kate Nolan, the owners of Brown County Bikes. The conversation explores the personal and professional journey of Danielle and Kate, their unique contributions to the biking community, and their vision for the future of Brown County Bikes...lots of great nuggets for other retailers.
Support the Show.
Send us a text
Holiday season will approach fast! Listen in for some tips on seasonal marketing.
Support the Show.
Send us a text
This episode’s guest is Alex Andrews, of Marsh & McLennan Agency-Specializing in bicycle industry insurance programs. Bike Shops, Product Liability for manufacturers/suppliers, professional trail building contractors, advocacy groups, and everything in between.
In today's episode we chat about state of the insurance industry, best tips and practices, we cover post pandemic needs, e bikes and trends.
Support the Show.
Send us a text
This week on the Flex we're reviewing back-to-school: tips for bicycle retailers.
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
Our guest today is Checo Diaz, CEO and Founder of Gear Hugger. Founded in 2020, Gear Hugger is a Multipurpose Lubricant, a plant-powered petroleum-, fossil fuel-, and PTFE-free multipurpose lubricant. Did you know that 40% of the chemicals that you put on your bike end up in the ground?
Gear Hugger cleans, lubricates and protects without harming the planet. In today's episode we chat about State of the lubrication industry, Sustainability, and why offering riders choices that protect the planet-showcase your commitment to positive impact.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gearhugger
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gear-hugger/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Gearhugger
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
Our Friday Flex episode this week focuses on back to school and seasonal marketing.
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
Today's Friday Flex focuses on greeting customers. How do you welcome people in your store?
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
This episode sponsored by Bike Rent Manager.
The NBDA is holding quarterly forum style meetings on Retailer & Supplier Best Practices.
The NBDA wishes to unite industry experts in a panel discussion to circulate best practices to align the industry. During the meeting, the NBDA organized panel talks through an agenda on various topics.
Topics addressed:
- Supplier Health - inventory, dealer programs, sales channels, advertising, retailer relations
- Retailer Health- cash flow, operational expense, cost of doing business, vendor relations, sales training
- D2C & E Commerce
- Human Resources
- Ridership Numbers
- Marketing Cycling in General
- Change in Consumer Spending Habits
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
Our Friday Flex this week covers how bicycle retailers can leverage data to make informed business decisions.
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
This episode’s guest is Matthew Smith, 27 year industry veteran, past retailer, and brand leader.
Today we are talking about ways for retailers to maximize current opportunities. Included in the conversation is the importance of the retailer, the concept of the retailer as the brand, current inventory, connecting with community....that's just the tip, lots more too... let’s get started!
This episode sponsored by Bike.Rent Manager.
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
Today's episode features 4 questions people are afraid to ask their bike mechanic or bike technician, including 'How can I tell when my suspension needs servicing?.'
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA at any time with ANY questions about the bicycle service center, mechanics training, bicycle assembly, etc. Submit your questions and photos to heather@nbda.com
Our newest edition to Bicycle Retail Radio, the Technician Flex is a recurring podcast feature focused specifically on service center and mechanics produced in partnership with NBDA educational partner Northwest Arkansas Community College's Bicycle Assembly & Repair Technician Program director Benjamin Glenn. https://www.nwacc.edu/academicdivisions/trailstrades/bicycletechnician/
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
This episode’s guest is Yan Lee, Affiliate Manager, with Zidy. Zidy provides a better way to manage customer leads, analyze feedback and drive business progress.
Listen and learn about the customer journey, how you can use AI, SMS messaging + Payment platforms for your business.
Support the Show.
Our Friday Flex feature this week focuses on how to encourage bicycles as transportation.
Support the Show.
This episode’s guest is Ryan Atkinson of Workstand, a platform that helps bike shops manage their online presence and e-commerce strategies. We cover a wide range of topics to gather deep insights into e-commerce strategies and online marketplaces, and even dive into the future of E-commerce. You will love this one.
Support the Show.
This episode is supported by bike.rent Manager
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the Show.
This week's Friday Retailer Flex we're covering the implementation of metal recycling in bicycle retail.
Support the Show.
This episode presented by bike.rent Manager.This episode’s guest is Emily De Jong, a woman in the cycling industry, connected to us through her relationship with Johnny Velo Bikes.
Listen in and learn more about being a woman in the biking industry, an inside viewpoint of the female bike mechanic, and tips for bicycle retailers to attract more female employees and customers.
Support the Show.
Our Retail Design Flex special feature is about evaluating new retail space plans.
Show notes today include Floor Plan Paper Dolls.
Support the Show.
This episode presented by bike.rent Manager.This episode’s special feature NBDA President Heather Mason joins Pedego Retailers in their Monthly Lunch and Learn event, focused on enhancing the specialty Retailer. Interviewing Heather is Emma Martin LaPlant, Senior Director | Retail Operations Support & Training Pedego. The conversation covers history of the NBDA, state of the industry and best position forward for e bike retailers.
Support the Show.
This week's Friday Flex covers the importance of sustainable business practices in bicycle retail.
Support the Show.
This episode's guests are Ben Dai and Christi Scruggs of Xnito. Xnito is a helmet brand founded specifically to breach the gap between bicycle and motorcycle helmets to best serve e-bike riders. We talk product specifics, how they support retailers, testing standards, and what's next.
Support the Show.
Our Flex this week how to help keep riders inspired to take their bike every day.
Support the Show.
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
This episode presented by bike.rent Manager.
Support the Show.
Today, thanks to Hubtiger, we are going to look at tips that will revolutionize business operations, streamline workflows, balance technician workflows, and improve customer experiences.
Support the Show.
This episode’s guest is Lauren Webb, Agency Director at Workstand. Listen in and learn pro tips on how you can first make a plan, engage your community, use direct mail and google listings and finally treat your website as a store location. And that’s just the tip, lots more too...
Support the Show.
Today's episode begins with a question about servicing wheels. What are the steps needed to execute great service?
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA at any time with ANY questions about the bicycle service center, mechanics training, bicycle assembly, etc. Submit your questions and photos to heather@nbda.com
Our newest edition to Bicycle Retail Radio, the Technician Flex is a recurring podcast feature focused specifically on service center and mechanics produced in partnership with NBDA educational partner Northwest Arkansas Community College's Bicycle Assembly & Repair Technician Program director Benjamin Glenn. https://www.nwacc.edu/academicdivisions/trailstrades/bicycletechnician/
Support the Show.
This episode’s guests are Stephen “Phunky” Proffitt, eBike Technical Service Specialist at Bosch and Laura Montero, eBike Technical Product Specialist.
Listen in and learn more about Bosch e bike systems, training, support, service opportunities, rider safety, secondhand market, leasing opportunities and more!
Support the Show.
This week's Friday Retailer Flex topic is boosting online bicycle sales: strategies for retailers
Support the Show.
Every month we are joined by the team at Human Powered Solutions to review their Micromobility Reporter feature. This month's news hour focuses on economic news, safer batteries, in addition two bonus articles submitted by the HPS team.
Support the Show.
This week the team has tips for Bicycle Retailers to sell old inventory via their website!
Support the Show.
This episode’s guest is Mickey O'Brien, the entrepreneurial force known as "Laid Back Mickey." He scaled his first bike shop to three locations in three years before founding a #1 cycle shop specializing in premium recumbent trikes.
Through strategic marketing and unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction, Mickey drove unprecedented sales and profit growth, establishing himself as a trusted leader in the cycling community. Today we talk about 5 things that grew his business in 2023. Lots of tips in here!
Support the Show.
Heather reviews tips for Bicycle Retailers to gain more social media followers.
Support the Show.
This episode’s guest is Alessandro Pregel, sourcing lead, Upway. Upway is building the largest marketplace for reconditioned e-bikes, making electric mobility more affordable and reducing waste-helping retailers move product, with a mission to make 2-wheel electric mobility accessible to everyone.
Listen and learn more about Upway, how they are working with retailers and how we can learn from their global data.
Support the show
Support the Show.
This Friday Flex is Tips for Bicycle Retailers to Optimize Their Website!
Support the Show.
This episode’s guest is William Alcorn, President (and Founder) and Sue George, Vice President from Bikeflights. We discuss how trends in our industry affect the Bikeflight's business and how their crew stays nimble to provide great service as a mediary.
Support the show
Support the Show.
This week on our Retail Design Flex we cover fixtures and merchandising.
Support the Show.
This episode’s guest is our friend Steve Morganstern, owner at Bicycle Ranch Tucson. We talk leveraging brand and awards to tell customers the story of “why us,” discuss the changing market and how shops can succeed with the right tools.
In addition, we cover unique strengths of their team and one’s other retailers can pick up to have the same 10 years staying power.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Kenny Belaey. Founder of Bentonville Bike Fest. I was excited to have Kenny on the show again to talk about how the festival has grown, what to expect for 2024,and the years to come.
The Bentonville Bike Fest is happening just days after the NBDA Retailer Summit. Giving retailers and suppliers a chance to spend multiple days not only networking but working in partnership. Kenny shares the importance of the two events aligning.
Support the show
Justin Bolinger is no stranger to bike shop life. Ever since his parents opened a shop in the 1980's, his love of cycling has grown. Now, over 30 years later, he shares his years of expertise and passion through his YouTube channel I Know A Guy Bicycles.
The Guy's YouTube channel continues to gain traction for his industry commentary, mechanic expertise and bike restoration and rebuilds where he is bringing his audience along the whole way.
Enjoy this week's episode highlighting Justin's content-rich journey, hosted by NBDA Board Member Clark Butcher of Victory Bicycle Studio.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
We recap this month's resource "E Bike Hate, Legislation, and Liability for Amazon."
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
Today's episode begins with a question about upselling when customers only come in for a service issue or small repair. "How do you enhance a customer's ride experience?"
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA at any time with ANY questions about the bicycle service center, mechanics training, bicycle assembly, etc. Submit your questions and photos to heather@nbda.com
Our newest edition to Bicycle Retail Radio, the Technician Flex is a recurring podcast feature focused specifically on service center and mechanics produced in partnership with NBDA educational partner Northwest Arkansas Community College's Bicycle Assembly & Repair Technician Program director Benjamin Glenn. https://www.nwacc.edu/academicdivisions/trailstrades/bicycletechnician/
Support the show
This episode’s guests are Alessandro Basso, Chief Executive Officer at StarDue Group. StarDue is the parent company of the brands Basso Bikes and Lee Cougan Mountain Bikes and Craig Steyn, country manager US of Basso Bikes.
Alessandro's Father and Uncle founded Basso Bikes in 1977. The conversation covers Alessandro's path from professional mountain bike racer to CEO of one of Italy's last remaining family-owned bike brands, how the brand has now chosen to work with retailers, how retailers can grow road biz and the importance of historical winning brands.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Brent Emery, co-owner of Emerys - a Wisconsin based bike store that adapts bikes to the needs of every rider. In this conversation we cover unique needs retailers should possess to best work with adaptive bicycles, whether it’s fit, customization, billing and more.
Watch this episode on YouTube for the best experience.
- https://adaptivecycling.org/
- https://www.rifton.com/
- https://www.amtrykestore.org/
Support the show
This Flex episode covers positioning high-margin inventory to drive additional sales.
Support the show
This episode’s guests are Jonathan Youngman, Executive Director for Franklinton Cycle Works, and Erik Anderson, ED at Bikes for All People.
In today’s episode they discuss their operations with John Robinson, President of Johnny Velo Bikes and how working together works better to serve their cycling community in Columbus, Ohio.
Learn about how bicycle cooperatives have a beneficial impact on providing transportation for the underserved and how traditional bicycle shops can partner with them to create a better cycling infrastructure in your community.
Support the show
Our short features, the Friday Flex episodes, are quick-hit business tips. This week Heather reviews why it's important to manage inventory, especially beyond 365.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
We recap this month's resource "Fear Mongering, Journalistic Malpractice, and a Welcoming Smile " in this episode.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
Our Friday Flex today features how using social media can build community and personalized services.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Eric Peterson, Business Development Manager, at Gocycle. Eric has been working to bring the coolest purpose-built, urban electric bike to retailers throughout the central United States. Listen and learn, how Go Cycle, a hybrid direct model brand, is working with retailers as showroom and service partners, and how Eric himself sees the future of the supplier/retailer/consumer relationship.
Support the show
General Tips for All Retailers When it comes to Lighting
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_sYXnpzPRDM
- Types of lights
- Color temperature
- Beam angles
- Lumens
- Foot-candles
- Energy efficiency
- Pricing
- Light fixture examples
- Examples of good and bad lighting
- Common lighting fails
Support the show
This episode’s guests are Micah Van Horn and Dan Jennings, from SRAM. SRAM excels in the bicycle industry, fostering retail success through top-notch products, education, advocacy, and unwavering passion. This conversation provides insights for bicycle retailers on how to foster success and optimize collaboration with SRAM.
Support the show
Today's Friday Flex reviews how to use social media to highlight shop expertise and repair services.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Frances Abbott, NBDA Marketing and Content Creator. Frances has worked in marketing for the last 10+ years in a variety of B2B and D2C roles at agencies and internal agencies and is now partnered with NBDA.
This episode focuses on social media tips for retailers. We hope you can take a handful of things if not at least one big idea or process change to implement in your shop.
Support the show
This Friday Flex Heather reviews tips for using social media to move old inventory.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
We recap this month's resource "Inflation Eases, but Beware of Phantom Debt and Zombies" in this episode.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
This episode’s guests are Derek DiMedio, and Tony Stagliano, owners of Hershey Cycles.
Located in the sweetest place on earth, Hershey PA, Hershey Cycles is doing things a bit out of the ordinary. A growing customer base and unique philosophy on customer relations, service, and sales this shop is one to watch. Listen in and learn more about Hershey Cycles, and their role in bringing focus to the Cannondale Bicycle Corporation, who was recognized with a permanent exhibit at The State Museum of Pennsylvania.
Support the show
Today's episode begins with a question from a retailer in Florida. "Chain replacement is a routine maintenance task... what do you recommend for bike shops on advising customers on when to replace their chains? Any common misconceptions?"
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA at any time with ANY questions about the bicycle service center, mechanics training, bicycle assembly, etc. Submit your questions and photos to heather@nbda.com
Our newest edition to Bicycle Retail Radio, the Technician Flex is a recurring podcast feature focused specifically on service center and mechanics produced in partnership with NBDA educational partner Northwest Arkansas Community College's Bicycle Assembly & Repair Technician Program director Benjamin Glenn.
Support the show
This episode’s guests are Yahor Buben Founder Velotooler and Amos Brumble, owner Brumble Bikes and Head of Operations at Velotooler.
Velotooler connects cyclists, bicycle brands, corporations, and bike fleets, with local skilled bike mechanics. Listen in and learn how they are working with Bicycle Retailers, mechanics, mobile retailers, and brands to offer quick booking, expert solutions and timely service.
Support the show
This Friday Flex, we continue our series with Navigating the Future: Bicycle Retailers' Guide to Consumer Trends in 2024
Support the show
It's DeFeet Socks! Most everyone has owned a pair at one point! You likely have some in your sock drawer now!! Heck, I remember my favorite pair of DeFeet socks from the 90's! They had a logo on that short 3" ankle that looked like Burger King but read "Big Ring King." I wore them constantly! Just to think back when those 3" cuff heights were the norm!
Guess what?!This episode’s guest is Shane Cooper, Founder, President, and Chief Sockologist at DeFeet International. Founded in 1992 DeFeet has become the world's leading cycling sock.
Known for quality, innovation, and style they are always in the hunt for success. This conversation is insightful, we give the listener more into the history of Defeet, what's worked & what hasn't, what trends are here to stay, and what trends have come and gone....like those 3" ankle socks!?.....Tune-in as Shane shares retailer tips for sock sale success.
Support the show
This week's Friday Retailer Flex is Navigating the Future: Staffing and Training Trends for Bicycle Retailers in 2024
Support the show
This episode’s guests are Jessica Hill, Director of Sales and Aj Rasmussen, business development at Aventon. We delve into the dynamic world of e-bikes exploring consumer interests, purchasing patterns, and insights into retailer success working with this multifaceted brand.
Discover the future trends shaping the e-bike landscape and gain valuable strategies for bicycle retailers looking to capitalize on this market.
Support the show
This week on the Friday Retailer Flex it's all about riding the trends: Bicycle Retailers' Guide to Boosting Profitability in 2024
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
We begin this episode with a discussion about deflation in the industry.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
The Retail Design Flex is an ongoing podcast feature focused specifically on store design, remodeling, and merchandising produced in partnership with NBDA Associate Member Fixture Lab.
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA & Fixture Lab team at any time with ANY questions about store design, merchandising, fixtures, remodeling, etc. Submit your questions and photos to design@nbda.com.
Fixture Lab has been in bike shop design and merchandising for years, and they know how hard it can be. They also know what works. They create hard-working solutions for bicycle dealers every day, and it has paid off big time for many shops around the country. If you have a small retail business (especially in cycling, running, fly fishing, or other outdoor sports) you need to know about Fixture Lab! They design cutting edge retail spaces that will make your competition green with envy. They also make a full line of retail store fixtures that present your product in amazing ways. More online at https://fixturelab.com.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Greg McDonald, newly elected NBDA Board Member, NBDA Member and P2 Member. Also, General Manager at Ridley’s Cycle Canada. Advocating for a Canada-specific portion of the NBDA vision, Greg believes in enhancing the NBDA’s outreach to non-members. He aims to position NBDA membership as an investment in personal and professional growth, encouraging individuals to be their own leaders and shape their destinies.
Support the show
Today we have a special holiday poem for the Independent Bicycle Dealer.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Dejan Gakovic, Micromobility Business Development Manager at UL Solutions. An eBike and EV enthusiast and owner, Dejan joins us today to review UL2849. The conversation covers the standard in depth including history, importance, certification process, and future developments.
Support the show
The holiday season provides an opportunity to take advantage of increased consumer spending. Heather reviews how our retailer members can boost profits and foster customer advocacy.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
We begin this episode with talking about being in "the eye of the hurricane." What does the economy look like as we move into the slow season?
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
Today we have 4 questions to review, starting with:
"My mechanic insists that checking the bottom bracket and truing the wheels be part of our bike build [process]... Unfortunately this means we have a 2 hour build. Any tips?"
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA at any time with ANY questions about the bicycle service center, mechanics training, bicycle assembly, etc. Submit your questions and photos to heather@nbda.com
Our newest edition to Bicycle Retail Radio, the Technician Flex is an ongoing podcast feature focused specifically on service center and mechanics produced in partnership with NBDA educational partner Northwest Arkansas Community College's Bicycle Assembly & Repair Technician Program director Benjamin Glenn.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Stuart Blyth, CEO and Co-founder at Hubtiger.
Hubtiger is a tech company that offers cloud-based repair and rental software solutions. Hubtiger is built to equip shops with the necessary tools to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and ultimately boost repeat business. Hubtiger has established itself as a leading software provider that is trusted by both repair and rental shops globally.
In this conversation we talk about service center efficiency, how software can be a game changer and amazing customer experience.
Support the show
Heather uses this Friday Flex to share why and how we can use AI in bicycle retail business.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Michael Browne, Head of Marketing at Ride With GPS, here to share insights on how you as a retailer can work with Ride with GPS to create and share route resources with your customers using their recently released “Shop” account.
Ride with GPS is the fastest and easiest way to get routes to your customers. Listen in as we talk about building community, group rides and giving riders peace of mind by knowing where they are going.
Support the show
The Retail Design Flex is an ongoing podcast feature focused specifically on store design, remodeling, and merchandising produced in partnership with NBDA Associate Member Fixture Lab.
This episode focuses on two stores that have been in their location a long time. What unique issues do they run into? Watch here: https://youtu.be/VQuRteuLvCQ
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA & Fixture Lab team at any time with ANY questions about store design, merchandising, fixtures, remodeling, etc. Submit your questions and photos to design@nbda.com.
Fixture Lab has been in bike shop design and merchandising for years, and they know how hard it can be. They also know what works. They create hard-working solutions for bicycle dealers every day, and it has paid off big time for many shops around the country. If you have a small retail business (especially in cycling, running, fly fishing, or other outdoor sports) you need to know about Fixture Lab! They design cutting edge retail spaces that will make your competition green with envy. They also make a full line of retail store fixtures that present your product in amazing ways. More online at https://fixturelab.com.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Tom Lampe, National Sales Manager at Küat.
This is a brand known for its ability to create industry-changing products that are manufactured with the utmost care to quality. They design products that last longer, boast unmatched style, and earn Küat the reputation of being a leader in feature innovation.
Support the show
Today's Friday Flex features Tom Lampe from Küat. Listen in as he reviews special incentives they are giving to retailers for B2C sales.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Dale Aguas, USA Territory Manager and Amber Krueger, Inside Sales from Tern.
Tern focuses on building bikes that are a great ride, easy to fold, and are built to last. They’re a unique brand with some very recognizable frame features, and we’re excited to chat with them today about what’s happening with Tern currently, what’s next, and what dealers and future dealers need to know
Support the show
Some of today's questions:
- What are the best ways to store a bike for winter?
- What kind of upkeep should I have if I'm on the trainer?
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA at any time with ANY questions about the bicycle service center, mechanics training, bicycle assembly, etc. Submit your questions and photos to heather@nbda.com
Our newest edition to Bicycle Retail Radio, the Technician Flex is an ongoing podcast feature focused specifically on service center and mechanics produced in partnership with NBDA educational partner Northwest Arkansas Community College's Bicycle Assembly & Repair Technician Program director Benjamin Glenn.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team. Listen in this week as we review their focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
This week Heather covers how to handle a credit card processing outage, with information from Chosen Payments.
Our Friday Retail Flex is a shorter episode that features quick-hit tips for your business.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Nat Ross of Pirelli. In this episode Nat shares some practical ways to engage with customers using tire products and other parts and accessories.
These small interactions can have a large payoff, and Nat offers ways to make the most of these interactions. Through focusing on language when communicating with our customer and focusing on merchandising and more in the shop, Nat helps us get it done.
Support the show
The Retail Design Flex is an ongoing podcast feature focused specifically on store design, remodeling, and merchandising produced in partnership with NBDA Associate Member Fixture Lab.
This episode reviews answers we got re: screen content management and digital signage. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2zyFSDkjk-0
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA & Fixture Lab team at any time with ANY questions about store design, merchandising, fixtures, remodeling, etc. Submit your questions and photos to design@nbda.com.
Fixture Lab has been in bike shop design and merchandising for years, and they know how hard it can be. They also know what works. They create hard-working solutions for bicycle dealers every day, and it has paid off big time for many shops around the country. If you have a small retail business (especially in cycling, running, fly fishing, or other outdoor sports) you need to know about Fixture Lab! They design cutting edge retail spaces that will make your competition green with envy. They also make a full line of retail store fixtures that present your product in amazing ways. More online at https://fixturelab.com.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Craig Cozza, President of Cozza Enterprises which includes the bike and specialty shop, Pro Bike + Run, a featured Presidents Award Winner in the 2023 NBDA Retailer Excellence Awards.
We cover what it takes to maintain a high standard business in a family of businesses and how Craig uses real estate and design to help leverage grow and community.
Support the show
This week Heather shares what essential insurance coverages the Speciality Bicycle Retailer should consider.
Content from our association member experts at Oyster. Learn more about their offer to NBDA members.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Jenny White, executive director of Velo Kids. Jenny and her husband, Brad, returned to Holland, Michigan after 6 years in Colorado. With degrees and business development experience, Jenny and her husband wanted to bring their love for cycling and community back too.
In 2013 they became owners of Velo City Cycles and in 2017 they (along with other kid-loving, health-promoting friends) started Velo Kids, now serving, teaching and empowering over 300 kids in our community. Learn more about Velo Kids, and the benefit to retailers if they focus on nurturing families as a customer base.
Support the show
Our newest edition to Bicycle Retail Radio, the Technician Flex is an ongoing podcast feature focused specifically on service center and mechanics produced in partnership with NBDA educational partner Northwest Arkansas Community College's Bicycle Assembly & Repair Technician Program director Benjamin Glenn.
Some of today's questions:
- What specific tactics could be used to asses the aptitude of an incoming mechanic?
- What do you estimate cost/investment to set up for 1-2 mechanics?
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA at any time with ANY questions about the bicycle service center, mechanics training, bicycle assembly, etc. Submit your questions and photos to heather@nbda.com
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Peter Thomson, founder and ride leader for Thomson Bike Tours. Peter never stops riding and that passion for adventure has helped him grow the business to different types of tours offered and different locations including new ventures in America. Listen in as we talk Tour de France, scaling a hospitality business and how you can bring Thomson bike tour offerings to your customers.
Support the show
Today's episode Heather reviews strategies for retailers to protect against theft.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team. This week’s topics include teens and ebike safety, pricing with surplus, and more.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
The Retail Design Flex is an ongoing podcast feature focused specifically on store design, remodeling, and merchandising produced in partnership with NBDA Associate Member Fixture Lab.
This week the crew talks about painting drop ceiling, picking font for your store, using logo in your store, pricing, slatwall hooks, and utilizing empty space in your displays.➡️Link to survey referenced in the episode: https://forms.gle/sS8AABa1BDnnvqoq6
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA & Fixture Lab team at any time with ANY questions about store design, merchandising, fixtures, remodeling, etc. Submit your questions and photos to design@nbda.com.
Fixture Lab has been in bike shop design and merchandising for years, and they know how hard it can be. They also know what works. They create hard-working solutions for bicycle dealers every day, and it has paid off big time for many shops around the country. If you have a small retail business (especially in cycling, running, fly fishing, or other outdoor sports) you need to know about Fixture Lab! They design cutting edge retail spaces that will make your competition green with envy. They also make a full line of retail store fixtures that present your product in amazing ways. More online at https://fixturelab.com.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Ryan Atkinson. Ryan is President and Co-Owner of SmartEtailing now Workstand. Ryan has joined us today to share more about Workstand, and offer some inside tips to position yourself best for the dynamic times ahead.
Support the show
This episode of The Friday Retailer Flex, Heather Mason NBDA President talks about shifting sales focus.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Brennan Marquez. Brennan isa 29-year veteran of the industry, with a career that spans many different roles like Technician, Service Writer, Rider Care Rep, Technical Writer, and Store Manager.
Over the last 15 years, he was part of the Retailer Education Department of Specialized Bicycle Components (SBCU) where he built the first technician-facing curriculum and coached and trained retailers through the Retail Excellence and Rider-First Retail programs. He now operates Specialty Retail Consultancy, a bicycle retail specific consult company and is a familiar face on some of our Continuing Education classes.
Support the show
NBDA President Heather Mason helps highlight how to use social media for your business.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Justyna Frank, owner of Cosmic Bikes in Chicago. Recently featured in BRAIN, in an article about suppliers and retailers working together for mutual benefit. We cover relationships with vendors, the retailer value add to customers, DTC sales, and several areas on how we can work in unison for added benefit.
Support the show
Our newest edition to Bicycle Retail Radio, the Technician Flex is an ongoing podcast feature focused specifically on service center and mechanics produced in partnership with NBDA educational partner Northwest Arkansas Community College's Bicycle Assembly & Repair Technician Program director Benjamin Glenn.
Topics covered in each episode will vary and could include
- Service dept operations 101
- Continuing education – who, what, when, where, why
- Proactive vs reactive service
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA at any time with ANY questions about the bicycle service center, mechanics training, bicycle assembly, etc. Submit your questions and photos to heather@nbda.com
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team. This week’s topics include e-bikes, bike lanes, inflation and more.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
NBDA President Heather Mason tackles the equation that helps all retailers turn a profit.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Joe Marcoux, Creator of the S.O.S. (Sales Objection System). He brings lived experience not only from himself, but from the many bike shops he has visited and spoken with. We’re excited to have him on to talk about what he sees and learns firsthand in his work with bike shops, especially when it comes to the sales process.
Support the show
The Retail Design Flex is an ongoing podcast feature focused specifically on store design, remodeling, and merchandising produced in partnership with NBDA Associate Member Fixture Lab.
This week, Brian highlights some problem-solving fixtures and we answer questions about how to take a "nice" store to the next level.
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA & Fixture Lab team at any time with ANY questions about store design, merchandising, fixtures, remodeling, etc. Submit your questions and photos to design@nbda.com.
Fixture Lab has been in bike shop design and merchandising for years, and they know how hard it can be. They also know what works. They create hard-working solutions for bicycle dealers every day, and it has paid off big time for many shops around the country. If you have a small retail business (especially in cycling, running, fly fishing, or other outdoor sports) you need to know about Fixture Lab! They design cutting edge retail spaces that will make your competition green with envy. They also make a full line of retail store fixtures that present your product in amazing ways. More online at https://fixturelab.com/.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Robert Pasin, Chief Wagon Officer of Radio Flyer. While most people know Radio Flyer best for the beloved little red wagon, they are routinely introducing dozens of new products per year. Their award-winning Chicago-based design team innovates in every product category. We’re focusing on one of these categories familiar to our listeners - ebikes - with the launch of their Flyer brand. Listen in and learn what sets Flyer’s ebike offering apart, review brand building, and how Robert champions the customer experience in delivering joy to families.
Support the show
Offering Rental Bikes.
Content provided by NBDA Associate Member Hubtiger: Streamline the management of your rental fleet or demo bikes with their powerful rental software.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Denago CEO Dave Duecker. Denago focuses on offering the best in high-quality ebikes. They also focus on making those bikes affordable for customers AND put value on the independent bike dealer relationship. The conversation includes the importance of the IBD, people, product, and safety.
Support the show
Retaining existing customers vs. attaining new customers.
Content provided by NBDA Associate Member Ascent360, a Data Driven Marketing Platform that helps you understand your customer base, grow your business and more.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team. This week’s topics include consumer spending trends, the used bike market, inventory issues, online sales, and FDNY issues vacate notices to e-bike retailers.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
NBDA President Heather Mason shares her testimony from the July 27th, 2023 CPSC Forum on Lithium-Ion Battery Safety with a specific focus on fires occurring in e-bikes and other micromobility products.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Cesar Rojo, engineer and accomplished ex-World Cup downhill racer. With his team at CERO Design, Cesar is behind Unno, creating some of the most ground-breaking bike and suspension designs in the mountain bike industry of the past ten years. Listen in as we talk about the future of e-bikes in mountain biking and what’s next for e-bike design and innovation.
Go to https://magicmind.com/nbda and use code NBDA20 for 20% off everything and up to 56% off your subscription for the next 10 days.
Support the show
The Retail Design Flex is an ongoing podcast feature focused specifically on store design, remodeling, and merchandising produced in partnership with NBDA Associate Member Fixture Lab. Topics covered in this episode are fixture recommendations and how to make a renovation budget.
Resources:
- Slat Wall Tips
This episode is available in video format here: https://youtu.be/dG6Jh7Y-WRg
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA & Fixture Lab team at any time with ANY questions about store design, merchandising, fixtures, remodeling, etc. Submit your questions and photos to design@nbda.com.
Fixture Lab has been in bike shop design and merchandising for years, and they know how hard it can be. They also know what works. They create hard-working solutions for bicycle dealers every day, and it has paid off big time for many shops around the country. If you have a small retail business (especially in cycling, running, fly fishing, or other outdoor sports) you need to know about Fixture Lab! They design cutting edge retail spaces that will make your competition green with envy. They also make a full line of retail store fixtures that present your product in amazing ways. More online at https://fixturelab.com/.
Support the show
This episode’s guests are Sam Quijano and Gordon Wadsworth form Bikeflights. It’s a conversation with experts in a company that walks in two worlds daily. Hear how Bikeflights balances both retailers and their customers in their bike shipment process and about all things Bikeflights including special need-to-know details about shipping e-bikes.
Go to https://magicmind.com/nbda and use code NBDA20 for 20% off everything and up to 56% off your subscription for the next 10 days.
Support the show
Retailer responses from the 2023 NBDA Retailer Excellence Awards. This week's question: How is your staff maximizing the profit potential of every bike that comes in for service?
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Scott Buelter, CEO of Ascent360. Ascent360 is the leading provider of Relationship Marketing Software and Services to the Outdoor Industry. Scott’s team is an awesome group that brings marketing automation to bicycle retailers. Email campaigns and simple automation can have profound impacts on your bottom line. This episode we’ll cover some tips for retailers looking to get started including best time to send emails, what to send, who to send to, and how to welcome customers back into the store for services. Lots here.
NBDA Member Deal: https://nbda.com/ascent360/
Support the show
Retailer responses from the 2023 NBDA Retailer Excellence Awards. This week's question: How do your displays encourage add-on sales?
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Derrick Boatwright, Director of Marketing and Commercial Innovation at HLC. With a background starting in bike retail and over 20 years of experience at HLC serving in many different roles from sales to purchasing and marketing to ecommerce, Derrick and the crew at HLC are hyper-focused on making bike retail easier. Through the use of technology, HLC is making it easier for retailers to save time, increase their profits, and remain relevant in a changing marketplace. We chat about the philosophies that drive HLC’s business, the aftermath (or lack thereof!) of the pandemic, and how data plays a role in optimizing the specialty retailer and distributor relationship.
Support the show
Retailer responses from the 2023 NBDA Retailer Excellence Awards. This week's question: Give us an example of how you overcame a challenge with your store exterior.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team. This week’s topics include the downtrend in foot traffic, inflation and how it affects retail, discounting, CPSC considering new safety requirements, and status of suppliers and bike share.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
The Retail Design Flex is an ongoing podcast feature focused specifically on store design, remodeling, and merchandising produced in partnership with NBDA Associate Member Fixture Lab. Topics covered in this episode are music in the store and what makes the greatest impact on store design.
Resources:
- Music in the store
- Bike shop evaluation visuals
- Bike Shop evaluation sheet
This episode is also available in video here: https://youtu.be/QjWMxH-LfAs
If you would like your questions answered on the flex, you can write to the NBDA & Fixture Lab team at any time with ANY questions about store design, merchandising, fixtures, remodeling, etc. Submit your questions and photos to design@nbda.com.
Fixture Lab has been in bike shop design and merchandising for years, and they know how hard it can be. They also know what works. They create hard-working solutions for bicycle dealers every day, and it has paid off big time for many shops around the country. If you have a small retail business (especially in cycling, running, fly fishing, or other outdoor sports) you need to know about Fixture Lab! They design cutting edge retail spaces that will make your competition green with envy. They also make a full line of retail store fixtures that present your product in amazing ways. More online at https://fixturelab.com/.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is James Moore. James has been in the bike industry for years as owner of Moore’s Bike Shop and is a past NBDA president. Now he has found himself in an unplanned role - advocate. The conversation centers around his recovery rides program and how he’s joining advocacy and cycling together to change perspectives and make a long-term positive impact. Listen in and learn how you as a retailer, human, and life changer could do similar work.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Nicole Freedman, Executive Director of NEMBA (New England Mountain Bike Association). The conversation covers the history of the organization, some current initiatives, the role of bike associations, and why and how retailers can work with similar groups in their local community.
Support the show
In this episode, guest host Chad Pickard, Owner of Spoke-N-Sport in Sioux Falls, SD, and NBDA Board Member and Vendor Best Practices Committee Member, is joined by Dan Jennings, Midwest Regional Field Guide Manager at SRAM and Troy O'Donnell, Sales Manager at Angry Catfish in Minneapolis, Minnesota to talk about how SRAM is working with Angry Catfish and other retailers to provide a better outcome for all.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team. This week’s topics include manufacturing in the U.S., decline of small business lending, an e-bike trade in program in New York, and consumer buying trends.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
In this episode, meet the members of the NBDA Best Practices Committee: Kent Cranford, former owner of Motion Makers in Asheville, NC, Peter Henry, former owner of Landry’s in Boston, MA, Phil Cohen, current owner of Chain Reaction in Augusta, GA, and Chad Pickard, current owner of Spoke-N-Sport in Sioux Falls, SD. Listen in as they talk about what makes a great relationship with a vendor and what the committee is currently working on to create more successful retailer/vendor relationships.
Support the show
How to create a retail experience that leaves customers buzzing with excitement and eager to share their stories.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Jarrett Collins, President of the Pan-Mass Challenge. The Pan-Mass Challenge, or PMC, is a Massachusetts-based bike-a-thon on an epic scale. Held the first weekend in August, the PMC raises funds for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, a world leader in adult and pediatric cancer treatment and research. The conversation covers the uniquely special event, what it takes to pull this off, the power in prioritizing a clear vision and mission, and how collectively we can do more to bring more people to our sport in meaningful ways.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is David Spaulding, owner of Pedalworks Mobile.
His “bicycle service on the move” business is based out of eastern Washington. We discuss the independent mobile business model, advantages and challenges to mobile business, and tips on those looking to get started on their own.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Jenny Moore, Co- Owner Manager of Moore’s Bike Shop located in Hattiesburg, MS. Listen in and learn about the family business, serving generations in the community, the power of the test track, welcoming all cyclists into the shop, and the overall joy of a job done top notch.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team. This week’s topics include the major trends for early 2023 featuring 33 top items to watch, bicycle industry in a state of continuous oversupply, e-bike safety bills passed in NY, and consumer spending habits.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Kenny Belaey, Founder of Bentonville Bike Fest. Learn more about the history of Bentonville Bike Fest, what to expect for 2023, how retailers can get involved, and the greater vision to get more people on bikes and into our industry. This one keeps the stoke level high.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Marc Harrell from Rezo Systems. Rezo Systems is a software offering “custom online reservation systems” and solutions to 3 main outdoor industries: Ski & Snowboard, Bike Rentals and Fly Fishing. Lots in this conversation - specifically, how Rezo Systems got their start and the unique solutions that they bring to the rental market. We also investigate how the pandemic changed their business and the rental market as a whole, the role a rental partner can play in retailer sales and service, where the rental market has seen growth, and what that means for shop sales.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team. This week's topics include consumer sales data, data integrity, signs of life within the bicycle industry, and the current IBD count in the US.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Doug Stoddart, founder and CEO of Bike Rental Manager. Bike Rental Manager is an all-in-one platform to simplify your bike rental business and allows you to manage your entire rental operation in one place. It’s a system that manages everything from booking to waivers, making it easy for you and your team to operate.
Our discussion this episode will cover how BRM got started, what makes this platform unique, and what challenges are ahead for rentals and retailers.
Support the show
This episode features a powerhouse team from Lifetime, part of the crew behind Sea Otter Classic. Joining us is Kristin Carpenter, founder of Verde Brand Communications, Holly Colson, owner of Facets Marketing, and Sarah Timleck, manager expo sales for Life Time Sea Otter Classic. Get to know the World's Premier Cycling Festival: Lifetime Sea Otter Classic is a four-day celebration of cycling featuring 9,000 athletes, 7,000 campers, 1,000 exhibiting brands and 400 international media representatives. The 33rd annual Sea Otter Classic is set to take place April 20-23, 2023, at the Laguna Seca Recreation Area in Monterey, California. Today’s conversation includes updates for the 2023 event, The Sea Otter Classic Summit, the first ever industry day, and ends with a call out on why we want retailers and industry to truly unite this April in Monterey.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Steve Kaczmarek, founder of Borealis Fat Bikes. Listen in and learn how the fat bike market has progressed, how you can increase fat bike sales, thoughts on the current state of the industry and more as Steve joins us from Fat Bike Worlds.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Lauren DiMartino who is leading the US brand development for Kids Ride Shotgun. There’s no better first step into the world of mountain biking than the Kids Ride Shotgun child seat. Learn why focusing on kids is important. Topics include changing the way we are teaching kids to ride, developing a customer for life, and keeping the cycling sport growth going so it does not age out. So much in this conversation for retailers of all sizes.
Support the show
The NBDA News Hour focuses on the news and articles contained within The Micromobility Reporter, getting a more in-depth view from a firsthand seat with the experts on the Human Powered Solutions team.
The team at Human Powered Solutions has over 245 years of experience and are considered data wizards. Their monthly newsletter The Micromobility Reporter is a dynamic resource for the industry, featuring timely news and in-depth analysis about the latest in human-powered transportation, including bicycles, e-bicycles, e-scooters, and ride share. Included is a focus on supply chain issues, technology, and both business and consumer trends that drive the marketplace.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Zachary Schieffelin, founder of Civilized Cycles. Civilized Cycles builds e-bikes designed for comfort and utility - we are talking about true transportation vehicles. Listen in and learn about the developing e-bike market, using e-bikes for true transportation vehicles, and what it will take to get us there. The conversation also touches on the importance of the dealer/supplier relationship and finally launching a new e-bike brand to market.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Chris Carmichael, the Founder and Chief Endurance Officer of CTS, one of the original and most respected companies in the endurance coaching profession. Within the episode learn how you as a retailer can look at your service offerings from the viewpoint of a coach, including ways we can fuel the cycling journey for all who come in your store, focus on being the knowledge experts and coaching customers, the importance of e-bikes, and finally surefire ways to build a dedicated fit rider community.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Dawn Piech, founder of the nonprofit Inspyrd Movement, whose mission is to inspire individuals to elevate diversity, equality, and inclusion through the act of movement.
Dawn, an accomplished randonneurer, is promoting the organization’s 4th annual International Women’s Day – Together We Ride™ global cycling event. As in years past, participants are encouraged to ride their bikes anywhere, any distance, outdoors or inside, in a group or solo ― just move! The event grows each year exponentially, with more people of all ages and countries joining in the celebration.
Guest host Sheri Rosenbaum, columnist and blogger at Sunflower and Pedals, chats with Dawn. Topics include how the organization expands its reach, the growth of the International Women’s Day – Together We Ride, sponsorship opportunities, and ways shops can get involved in hosting their own local rides.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Scott Fitzgerald, CEO of Buddy Pegs. Buddy Pegs on the surface is a framework of support to help parents introduce their children to cycling. This conversation leaves listeners with advice on how to support the growth of cycling at all ages, provide opportunities for youth to take part in retailer-led cycling programming, and have fun while doing it. This episode’s special guest host is Chad Pickard, NBDA Board Member and Owner of Spoke N Sport in SD.
Support the show
Today’s podcast features news about the NBDA P2 Workshops at CABDA, Continuing Education courses, NBDA’s Career Board, a recap from the recent NBDA Costa Rica Trip, and an interview with special guest Scott Buelter, CEO and President of Ascent360. A relationship marketing leader who specializes in optimizing marketing programs through data, analytics and technology, Scott has led and built marketing programs for over 50 Fortune 500 clients in multiple industries. Working closely with the team at the NBDA, Scott has been helping to lead retailers’ best practices in data collection, guiding and educating on the importance of offering personalized and customer-centric service. Listen in and gain insight in marketing, communication, and outreach to keep all cyclists engaged with the industry and local retailers.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Mike Herlinger, founder of Club Ride Cycling Apparel. Listen in to this episode and learn about the importance of the simple existence of riding apparel that offers technical fabrics, lifestyle vibes, and premium features that allow us to go from ride to post ride, how you as a retailer can use branded clothing to build store culture and position, and how to introduce cycling clothing to every rider, including all these new riders who recently found our sport.
Support the show
This episode’s guests are Chuck Gleason and Josh Sutton, Owner and Manager of Trailyard, located just two miles from downtown Valparaiso, Indiana, a town just an hour outside of Chicago. Trailyard took the “bike shop + one other thing” formula to the next level, creating a destination for the whole family featuring a full-service mountain bike shop and family-friendly restaurant, bar, and café. Listen in and learn how you too can create a space for your community to adventure right at home.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Benjamin Alexander, the owner of Southwind Cycle and Outdoor, with 2 locations in Kansas. Ben has brought boutique retail to Lola, whose population sits around 5,343. The conversation today will leave the listener with thoughts on serving the needs of every customer that comes in your door, the importance of word of mouth, how brands can support premium products in rural areas, and how important it is to continue to evolve, analyzing expense and margin while adapting operations to stay profitable.
Support the show
This episode’s guests are Steffen Root and Jaryn Pierson, the Co-Owner and Manager of Berkshire Bike and Board, with 3 locations in the Northeast. The conversation touches on retaining the mom-and-pop feel within your store while running a well-oiled machine, how a detailed structure helps all areas of operations, placing the right person in the right place, and how important it is to get every customer that comes in the door to experience the joys of an ebike. All this and more filled with optimism and a bit off apprehension as we enter into 2023.
Support the show
The Nosh is a monthly feature highlighting NBDA President Heather Mason and Development Director Rachelle Schouten discussing life, work, relationships, and their take on the latest industry news. Nosh #7 features 5 resolutions for the bicycle retailer, a reflection back on 2022 NBDA programming, and a look into 2023. In this episode they are joined by an industry veteran and visionary in leading real-time service contracts and insurance consulting- Frank McMillan, Founder of Ensure Protect and developer of R.I.D.E.S. (Ride it Daily Extended Service).
Support the show
5 things to help you plan for your most profitable retail year in 2023
Support the show
In this episode we have invited several members of the NBDA Board to share wisdom and best advice for retailers as we wrap up 2022 and head into 2023. Where should retailers focus? Any tips? Thoughts about vendor relations, cashflow, staffing, and fixed costs? Joining us in this very special episode focused on ensuring specialty bicycle retailers future success are Peter Henry (Landry’s), Kent Cranford, John Robinson (Johnny Velo Bikes), Gillian Forsyth (BFF Bikes), and Chad Pickard (Spoke N Sport).
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Gary Vernon, Walton Family Foundation Senior Program Officer supporting Steuart and Tom Walton’s work creating a world class destination for mountain biking and all types of cycling in the state of Arkansas. Gary is an avid mountain biker and off-road motorcyclist and an expert in competition motorcycle trials. His passion for cycling spans nearly 50 years. Arkansas is an economically driven state and the investment from the Walton family into local trails and advocacy has created a biking destination. Listen in and learn how you as a retailer can transform your community through trails, including the core elements to shape a “destination”, creating trail ambassadors, involving youth and new riders, and the lasting positive impacts of your hard work. This episode is hosted by special guest host Chad Pickard, owner of Spoke N Sport in SD and NBDA Board Member.
Support the show
In a recording on December 1, 2022, NBDA President Heather Mason sat down with Lauren DiMartino, North American Market Lead at Kids Ride Shotgun, for a NBDA Member Roundtable Event focused on the kids category. In this conversation listen in to learn why the kids category is so important to a retailer’s offering and what the current climate is like around kids sales. The conversation dives deep into retailers who are excelling at sales and why, tips for interacting with parents regarding bike and helmet sizing, and what’s missing in the current landscape. The roundtable is jam packed with value-add nuggets for retailers of all sizes.
Support the show
Best practices that retailers should be focused on during the cold season.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Ryan McFarland, Founder of Strider Bikes and All Kids Bike. Ryan is an entrepreneur with a passion for biking and motorsports. In 2007, he founded Strider Bikes in his garage. Today, the balance bike company has sold nearly 4 million bikes worldwide. Strider creates and inspires future generations of riders by giving children as young as six months old the best first-bike experience. Strider Bikes revolutionized the bike’s design to develop a child’s balance first and pairs each balance bike with a proven learn-to-ride process. Children around the globe are starting on a Strider Bike and learning the art of two-wheeling – before they’re out of diapers. Listen in and learn how you as a retailer can work with Strider to get kids started early into our sport. This episode’s special guest host is Chad Pickard, NBDA Board Member and Owner of Spoke N Sport.
Support the show
7 Tips for Higher Retail Holiday Sales Using your Email List and Social Media
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Spinks, PR & Brand Specialist for QuietKat Off-Road Electric Bicycles. Born and raised in Vail, Colorado, Spinks has a decorated past in the outdoor recreation and hospitality industries. A diverse background featuring top level customer service and product innovation, Spinks has been a driver of brand performance. Founded in 2013 in Eagle, Colorado, QuietKat is the leader in off-road electric bikes for hunting, fishing, camping, and exploring the great outdoors. QuietKat has seen incredible growth and has since been acquired by Vista Outdoor in 2021. As e-bikes allow for diversity of rider and purpose, this is a brand to watch. Listen in and learn more about e bikes for the great outdoors and how as retailers we can play a role in the future of getting more people on bikes with electrified access to the outdoors.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Don DiCostanzo, Founder and CEO of Pedego Electric Bicycles. Founded in 2008, Pedego is the leading brand of electric bikes in North America. Pedego is famous for premium quality, five-star local service, and an industry leading five-year warranty. A complete line of 19 electric bike models are available at over 200 locally-owned Pedego stores that offer sales, rentals, tours, accessories, and service. Selected as 2021 Entrepreneur of the Year Pacific Southwest, Don spent over 20 years leading innovative products and programs for the automotive industry, prior to founding Pedego. As the CEO of Pedego, he makes quality, innovation, and customer service happen every day and he makes good on his company’s goals to delight Pedego customers and assist Pedego dealers to be successful.
Support the show
This episode’s guests are Eduardo Silva and Charlotte Herzenberg, co-owners of Carbon Bike Specialists, a top-of-the-line facility in Essex, NY, specializing in carbon bike repair, customization, and paint restoration. The state-of-the-art facility opened in July 2022. Eduardo was formally the head technician at Carbon Bike Repair in the UK, the leading carbon repair company in Europe. Carbon Bike Specialists has repaired over 10,000 bikes and never has had one come back. With a passion for sustainability and cycling, both Charlotte and Eduardo are partnering with bicycle retailers across the US to spread the word on how carbon can be safely repaired.
Support the show
The Nosh is nourishment, a little bicycle industry food for the soul, it might leave you feeling full and content at the end, or hungry and asking for more. We hope it just hits you right on leaving you feeling positive, confident, inspired, and thankful. Thankful for this wonderful industry that we get to love, work, and play in. The Nosh is a monthly episode featuring NBDA President Heather Mason and Development Director Rachelle Schouten discussing life, work, relationships, and their take on the latest industry news. Sharing highlights from this past month's virtual member events and collective retailer advice. In this episode they are joined by Wiley Mosley, Central and South Texas Giant Bicycles Account Executive to talk about the Giant brand, retailer experience, and some feedback from his personal interactions with so many retailers.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Davide Giardini, Marketing Director at Full Cycle Bikes, Colorado Multisport, & The Tune Up Bar. Full Cycle is the oldest bike shop in Boulder, and it is still to this day independently owned by one owner. Colorado Multisport, inside Full Cycle, is a specialty triathlon store that is world renowned for the list of triathlon Olympians and world champions that walk through its doors. The Tune Up Tavern & Espresso, also located inside Full Cycle, is a full-service bar (think cocktails, beers, wine) and coffee shop. Having won many local awards in recent years for their efforts, Full Cycle transformed their communities, bringing passion filled events, cycling energy, and connecting the industry at large to the local rider. An Italian native, Davide has a unique combination of international experience in the endurance sports world, combining a decade of sales and marketing and business development, with half a decade as a world’s top 10 professional triathlete, AND as of late a US Ski Mountaineering National Team member. His unique skill set mix brings an inspiring personality to the bicycle industry and endurance sports as a whole: building & fostering partnerships through a genuine love for endurance sports, that make a positive impact on the business and local community. Listen in as we get to know more about this Boulder Cycling & Multisport Hub is changing the way we look at retailer rider outreach. Our hope is that you gain some fresh, creative ideas for you as a retailer to think about for your local community.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Robert Dennis, National Sales Manager at Okai Bicycles. OKAI has a rich tradition of delivering top-notch micro-mobility solutions with a multinational team carrying more than a decade of experience serving the industry. Thanks to exceptional capabilities in designing, R&D, manufacturing, quality assurance, testing and customer service, OKAI has built a commanding market presence in Europe and North America as one of the world's largest e-scooter and e-bike manufacturers. Okai is dedicated to solving the “first and last mile” transportation gap with high-quality, high-performance electric bikes and scooters acknowledged as best in their industry, also with the important safety certifications. Listen in as we get to know Robert, the brand, and discover all the ways Okai is working to wow your customers with sleek design, durable quality, and affordable price.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Corbin Smith, CEO of Unified Bike Co. Unified is a dealer-centric bike company that is in the business to make running bike shops easier and more profitable. Bike shops are at the center of every decision they make and will always be that way. Offering high quality mountain bikes, urban bikes, e-bikes, components, and branded apparel, this is one company to keep an eye on. Offering the best warranty in the game, Unified Bike Co is focused on a strong retailer working relationship, attracting top dealers across the US. Listen in as we get to know Corbin, the brand, and why you need to head over to the website and click become a dealer today.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Ryan Atkinson, President and Co-Owner of SmartEtailing, a company committed to the success of local independent bicycle retailers by providing software and services that help them effectively compete in an evolving retail environment. SmartEtailing provides website, marketing, and data solutions exclusively in the cycling industry. A year ago, the company expanded their capabilities into business intelligence and marketing automation by merging with Retail Toolkit. In this episode, we chat with Ryan about the current landscape of sales, dive into some news headlines and data, and catch up with him regarding SmartEtailing and Retail Toolkit, the company, people, and future. Before we close out, we will once again engage with him in an NBDA member-submitted Q&A session.
Previous episode with Ryan Atkinson: https://nbda.com/ryan-atkinson-president-and-co-owner-of-smartetailing/
Support the show
The Nosh is a monthly feature featuring NBDA President Heather Mason and Development Director Rachelle Schouten discussing life, work, relationships, and their take on the latest industry news. Sharing highlights from this past month's virtual member events and collective retailer advice. In this episode they are joined by Johnny Gibson and Daniel Matthews from The Biking Market. The Biking Market is a global multi-vendor marketplace that connects consumers, bicycle retailers and bicycle suppliers. With a mission to help make bicycles and other cycling products more accessible and affordable for consumers, while helping bicycle businesses increase their sustainability. Listen in as we discuss how retailers can interact with The Biking Market.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Benita Warns, co-owner of Midway Bicycle Supply. Midway specializes in sales to very small bike shops, including non-profits and other operations that often can't get accounts with other distributors. Warns and her husband Michael also operate a volunteer-run bike shop of their own, Mr. Michael Recycles Bicycles. Midway, which incorporated in 2013, stocks products from Kenda, KMC, UNO, Co-Union, Wald and others. Unlike some distributors, Midway doesn't require a brick-and-mortar location or landline phone. Midway requires that its wholesale customers have liability insurance and some form of business incorporation or a fiscal agent and have a state tax ID number. Listen in as we get to know more about Midway, the Warns and how they support diversity and growth in our industry.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Albert Cabbad, Owner of R&A Cycles. R&A Cycles has 2 locations offering cutting-edge inventory. Al has over 30 years’ knowledge of cycling and fitting and believes only in advertising products that R&A Cycles has physically in store. Al is leading out retail with an honest reputation and an immense desire to fulfill all their customer’s needs. Listen in as we go deep into the topics retailers are facing today, managing inventory, stock allocations, cashflow, inflation, and limited credit availability.
References: https://nbda.com/the-importance-of-your-retail-reputation/
Support the show
This episode’s guest is George Lee, a known retail expert with an unwavering desire to innovate, implement, and take every business and everybody in his environment to the next level, and a second time guest on the podcast. His bicycle industry career is centered on strategic thinking, planning, and profitability. He is leading the retail strategy and operations growth plan of Conte’s Bike Shop - the biggest bicycle retail business on the East Coast. He joined us last year to talk about developing your retailer experience, leadership, and the importance of data. Today he joins us to go deep into your service menu and how you can use a scientific method when designing.
Support the show
The Nosh is a monthly feature featuring NBDA President Heather Mason and Development Director, Rachelle Schouten discussing life, work, relationships, and their take on the latest industry news. Sharing highlights from this past month's virtual member events and collective retailer advice. In this episode they are joined by Erin Huck, a cross-country mountain bike racer, 5-time Elite National Champion, and Tokyo Olympian. Listen in as they talk to her about recovery from injury, setting and pursuing goals, balancing career, family, and racing, and the athlete mindset.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Jerry Lawson, Chief Frog at Frog Bikes, the award-winning manufacturer of premium lightweight kids’ bikes. An ambitious strategic international business director and a retail professional with a proven record of delivering results, Jerry founded Frog Bikes with his wife, Shelley Lawson, after a fruitless bicycle hunt for their own two children inspired them to leave their corporate careers behind and create bikes just for kids. They set about creating quality, lightweight, and affordable kids' bikes and nine years down the line Frog's child-centered approach has earned them global accolades and industry awards for innovation and design. Listen as we get to know the brand, vision, and how they continue to excel with thriving partnerships and relationships with over 1,800 retailers worldwide.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Laura Montero, Technical Product Specialist at Bosch eBike Systems. Laura, based in Austin, TX, is part of the team that interfaces with independent bicycle retailers on a regular basis, working with retailers on technical training, relationship building, support, and resources. For more than 10 years, Bosch has been delivering innovative eBike drive systems that offer top performance and quality.
Their award-winning motors, highly efficient batteries, and modern displays can be found on eMountain, eTrekking, City eBike or eCargo bikes. Listen in and learn more about Bosch eBike System, how retailers can thrive working closely aligned and a bit of firsthand insight around sustainability, opportunity, and cultivating an e-community.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is KC Speich, managing partner at Trek Bicycles of Highland Park, an independently owned and operated shop in a northern suburb of Chicago. KC has been in thr cycling industry since the age of 14 and has experience on both the LBS and manufacturer sides of the business.
The guest host for this episode is Sheri Rosenbaum, columnist for RoadBikeRider and blogger at Sunflowers and Pedals. Sheri chats with KC about what makes TrekHP successful and a repeat winner of the Gold and Silver Bicycle Retailer Excellence Award. KC attributes success to a great staff and the philosophy of community, embracing it internally externally, and online. The two also chat about the acquisition of a second location, the challenges, and the rewards. You won’t want to miss this podcast as it contains some key takeaways to use in your shop.
Support the show
The Nosh is nourishment, a little bicycle industry food for the soul, it might leave you feeling full and content at the end, or hungry and asking for more. We hope it just hits you right on leaving you feeling positive, confident, inspired, and thankful. Thankful for this wonderful industry that we get to love, work, and play in.
The Nosh is a monthly podcast, this month featuring NBDA President Heather Mason, Development Director Rachelle Schouten, and Membership Outreach Melanie Fry discussing life, work, relationships, and their take on the latest industry news. Sharing highlights from this past month's virtual member events and collective retailer advice. In this episode they are joined by best-selling author, Robb Zbierski, diving into the details of your brain, and how it prohibits you or it lets you tap into your passion for all things bikes, operating with excellence to capitalize on every opportunity for revenue and profitability.
Support the show
Big Gear Show 2022- held outside amid the mountains, it is easy to be inspired to get outside, walking the show of over 200 brands from the outdoor, hike, bike, paddle and camp world. This is an adventure junkie’s dream. Bike retailers mingling with outdoor retailers, daily education tracks, bike and boat demos. The show is a great place to escape from the shop too. A destination to learn, meet, relax and dream up all to come. NBDA President Heather Mason and Development Director Rachelle Schouten broadcast live from the show, giving you a front row seat, behind the scenes access pass to the magic of the show. Listen in as they cover the latest tech, the who’s who of who at the show, and are joined by several special guests.
This episode’s guests:
Neil Macc - Chief Revenue Officer, Beeline Connect
Brian Tedesco, President/CEO & Greg Manning, National Sales Manager – Blaupunkt
Tabb Buel - CEO, Top Shelf Storage Solutions
Mari Bodensteiner - Marketing & Sales, Space Trailers
Tracey - Tactical Brand Builder, Parakito
Nate Butler - Director of Community, Peak Design
Cameron Gibbons - Magnum Bikes
Daisy Chiu - Casa Bikes
Ryan Spinks - Director Of Brand Development, QuietKat
Support the show
Big Gear Show 2022- held outside amid the mountains, it is easy to be inspired to get outside, walking the show of over 200 brands from the outdoor, hike, bike, paddle and camp world. This is an adventure junkie’s dream. Bike retailers mingling with outdoor retailers, daily education tracks, bike and boat demos. The show is a great place to escape from the shop too. A destination to learn, meet, relax and dream up all to come. NBDA President Heather Mason and Development Director Rachelle Schouten broadcast live from the show, giving you a front row seat, behind the scenes access pass to the magic of the show. Listen in as they cover the latest tech, the who’s who of who at the show, and are joined by several special guests.
This episode’s guests:
Steve Gendron - Co-Founder and CEO, ENDVR.io
Derrick Boatwright - Director of Commercial Innovation, HLC
Frank McMillan - Ensure Protect/Rides
Kristin Brandt - Co-owner & Marketing Manager, Steve the Bike Guy
Support the show
Big Gear Show 2022- held outside amid the mountains, it is easy to be inspired to get outside, walking the show of over 200 brands from the outdoor, hike, bike, paddle and camp world. This is an adventure junkie’s dream. Bike retailers mingling with outdoor retailers, daily education tracks, bike and boat demos. The show is a great place to escape from the shop too. A destination to learn, meet, relax and dream up all to come. NBDA President Heather Mason and Development Director Rachelle Schouten broadcast live from the show, giving you a front row seat, behind the scenes access pass to the magic of the show. Listen in as they cover the latest tech, the who’s who of who at the show, and are joined by several special guests.
This episode’s guests:
Jake Capistrant - Owner, Jake’s Bikes
Patrick Hus - CEO, Bianchi USA
Lance Camisasca - Bike Show Director, Big Gear Show
Maggie - Maggie Long, E-Bike Program Coordinator, Call2Recycle
Doug Dalton - Senior Brand Ambassador, SRAM
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Adam Saplin, Founder and Inventor of HandleStash, a made in the USA shock absorbing bike cup holder. After 9 months of R&D, welcome HandleStash, born while trying to carry a coffee while riding, and coffee that kept jumping and splashing on every bump. HandleStash is made with as much US-sourced materials as possible, and assembled in Denver, CO. Having recently left his past career to jump feet first into launching a brand into the market, listen as we get to know Adam, learn more about the company, committing to “made in the USA”, the casual rider and the most overlooked bicycle accessory.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Joe Coppola, a second time podcast guest and owner of Velo Concepts Bicycle Lab and Studio located in Culpeper, Virginia. Started in 2014, the bespoke bicycle retailer strives to be different from all others. Rather than take a one-size-fits-most approach, Velo Concepts’ focus is on helping the rider select a bicycle that fits the unique needs, size, riding style, and aspirations of the cyclist. The store features a state-of-the-art fitting lab, which, coupled with over 30 years’ experience performing fits, ensures that every rider gets professional-level fits using the latest technologies. They even have an in-house cycling sport orthotics lab. Joe is fanatical about the details and eager to take everyone’s cycling journey to the next level – listen in as we dive deeper with Joe into expanding a bike shop's standard offering.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Matthew LaPrade, Owner of AE Service Course in Folsom, CA. Aside from being on two wheels since 3 years old, Matthew has two decades of experience in the bicycle industry. From mopping floors and breaking down cardboard to being contracted by top bicycle companies to provide technical services, throughout this time Matthew has developed a wealth of knowledge and skill that he is happy to share (especially over espresso). His skills and knowledge span all disciplines of bicycle with a heavy emphasis on road bikes, on which he spends most of his personal time riding. Listen in and learn more about his store and his thoughts on the changing of the industry and service forward.
Support the show
The Nosh is nourishment, a little bicycle industry food for the soul; it might leave you feeling full and content at the end, or hungry and asking for more. We hope it hits you right on, leaving you feeling positive, confident, inspired, and thankful. Thankful for this wonderful industry that we get to love, work, and play in. The Nosh is a monthly feature featuring NBDA President Heather Mason and Development Director Rachelle Schouten discussing life, work, relationships, and their take on the latest industry news. Sharing highlights from this past month's virtual member events and collective retailer advice. In this episode they are joined by Shane McCamey, Director of Training and Business Development at Boiron USA. Boiron has been making products for 90 years with the purest medicines made from the earth's best resources. Listen in as they chat about retailers diversifying their offerings in store, why it might make sense to embrace products that keep your customers on the bike, and much, much more.
References:
https://www.bicycleretailer.com/studies-reports/2022/06/21/peopleforbikes-releases-its-sixth-city-ratings-best-us-cities-biking#.YrS7p-zMKi4
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Taylor Essick, CEO & Co-Founder of Kitzuma Cycling Logistics. For the last 20 years, Taylor has had his finger on the pulse of the bike shipping and logistics industry. With the launch of Kitzuma Cycling Logistics in 2020, he is using that experience to help simplify the way bikes move for bike companies and the cyclists they serve. In this episode we will not only get to know Taylor and the company Kitzuma, but also explore the ways retailers and brands can work with Kitzuma, their partnerships, and advice for retailers navigating shipping and logistics forward.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Josh Travis, Phat Tire Bike Shop’s Bentonville, Arkansas store manager. The Bentonville location is one of 13 Phat Tire shops in a two-state region—Arkansas and Oklahoma.
Bentonville is the headquarters for Walmart, and in 2006 MTB trails were a tool to attract talent to this quaint town. Fast forward to today, and the area boasts some of the best MTB and gravel riding in the US, maybe the world, with the ability to ride right from your doorstep. The town also has world-class restaurants, microbreweries, music, and an admission-free art museum.
The guest host for this episode is Sheri Rosenbaum, columnist and blogger at Sunflower and Pedals. Sheri will be chatting with Josh about the Bentonville bike scene, adding a rental fleet to your shop’s offering, and how to manage rentals for the best customer experience. Josh can talk from experience as Phat Tire Bike Shops have 150+ rental bikes in their fleet, including everything from kids bikes and commuters to gravel and high-end full suspension eMTB.
Support the show
Recent news in both trade and consumer publications around e-bikes risk and safety have prompted attention on the classification of bicycles and lithium-ion batteries. In response to the amount of data, the NBDA has teamed up with experts to offer a SuperWebinar series boiling down the information to outline retailer best practices regarding e-bikes.
This episode is a playback of the Fireside Chat that occurred live on NBDA web platforms May 24th, 2022. Listen in to learn more about UL 2849, and what bicycle retailers need to know on compliance moving forward as well as safe storage and handling of Lithium-ion batteries.
You can find the video recording here.
Support the show
What about your store layout and design encourages customers to walk through and fully experience your space?
Support the show
This is Episode 1 of our new podcast series – The NBDA Nosh. The Nosh is nourishment, a little bicycle industry food for the soul, it might leave you feeling full and content at the end, or hungry and asking for more. We hope it just hits you right on leaving you feeling positive, confident, inspired, and thankful. Thankful for this wonderful industry that we get to love, work, and play in. The Nosh is a monthly feature featuring NBDA President Heather Mason and Development Director Rachelle Schouten discussing life, work, relationships, and their take on the latest industry news. Sharing highlights from this past month's virtual member events and collective retailer advice. In this episode they are joined by the team at HLC to talk through the highlights and community effects that the BWYR Retailer Event Fund Program is having.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Neil Macc, Chief Revenue Officer at Beeline Connect. Beeline, founded in 2013, is focused on delivering software solutions for the bicycle industry. So focused, in fact, the company has facilitated over 100,000 service and fulfillment appointments connecting riders with independent bicycle retailers. Neil brings his expertise in management, product development, sales, purchasing, franchising, and contract negotiation to seamlessly connect the rider, retailer, and bicycle brands for real-time service and fulfillment scheduling. Motivated professionally by team building and creating a seamless customer experience, listen in as we talk with Neil about his journey in the industry, the Beeline Connect platform, and his own thoughts on the industry future forward.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Jessica Hill, Director of Sales at Aventon Ebikes. Her professional career spanning decades, Jessica is a creative, dedicated, and highly motivated leader. Aventon is a brand and manufacturer of electric bicycles whose headquarters are in Brea, California. Aventon was founded in 2012 and was originally a fixed-gear bicycle company, before moving into the ebike market in 2018. Since then the company has released numerous models of ebike, with many of these ebikes winning recognition throughout the industry. Since the initial lockdowns of the COVID-19 pandemic, Aventon and the electric bike industry as a whole have witnessed explosive growth. Listen in and learn more about starting in the bicycle industry, Aventon as a company, consumer ebike trends, and expectation forward.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Ryan Zagata, President at Brooklyn Bicycle Company. Brooklyn Bicycle Company is a bicycle company based in Brooklyn, New York, that was founded in 2011. Brooklyn Bicycle Company originated from the desire to provide people with bicycles to explore their neighborhoods and engage with their communities. The company itself, deeply immersed in its community, designs bikes to celebrate their own neighborhood; multicultural, economically diverse, topographically dynamic, and remarkably collaborative. Ryan and his team are on a mission to make purchasing a product a human experience. Not just providing their customers with bicycles but providing a series of positive experiences from the first interaction to new bike day. Working with retailers, Ryan and his team deliver on that promise day in and day out. CNN named the Brooklyn Cruiser one of "the coolest commutes on two wheels", and the bicycles have been showcased as fashionable options in publications such as Vogue in 2012. Listen as we get to know Zagata, learn more about the company, the human interaction that lends to a positive experience and explore all to come in the future of the bicycle industry.
Support the show
This episode’s guest is Mark Purdy, referred to as a Sensei in the Art of Bicycle Maintenance. His impressive background runs over 35 years in the bicycle industry at all levels from manufacturing to small-town mom & pop shops to multi-store chains and high-end boutiques. He’s been a race mechanic for US Amateur & Conti teams and an entrepreneur himself running a retail service course in NYC called Ifixbyx. His knowledge, know-how, and everyday whit come through in every conversation. Listen in as we talk with Mark about his insight and ability to look past the moment to see so much more, his background, mechanics at retail level, the future of the industry, and so much more. Lots of nuggets in this one.
Support the show
This episode’s guests are from Biloxi Bicycle Works in Biloxi, Mississippi. Co-owners Daniel Wijdenes and Bart Luther are turning heads as they drive cycling into the local community of Biloxi. Biloxi Bicycle Works opened around the same time the pandemic started shutting down businesses in America. The business promotes the benefits of daily exercise and welcomes all to the store to expand their knowledge surrounding their own physical fitness and what the Gulf Coast has to offer. Focused on biking, running, and swimming, Daniel and Bart are embracing the true impact a local shop can have on a community by working with Coastal Mississippi’s tourism, providing opportunities and guidance for physical fitness. Listen in as we get to know the team, the store, and how they enjoy helping others experience the great outdoors and improve their health and well-being.
Support the show
This episode’s guests are Gordon Wadsworth, Customer Experience Manager and Sparky Moir, Customer Orders Manager at BikeFlights. BikeFlights, started in 2009, is an easy-to-use bicycle shipping service and a supplier of easy-to-pack bike shipping boxes. Offering low costs, excellent service, and on-time delivery with every shipment, BikeFlights serves individuals, bike shops, events, and cycling industry businesses. Both Gordon and Sparky play essential roles in leading the BikeFlights Customer Support Team, which serves bikes shops and individuals using BikeFlights. They're also both great bike riders, too! Listen in as we get to know BikeFlights as a company, why they guarantee that BikeFlights is the best way to ship your bike, and finally they will offer up some pro tips for retailers and cyclists alike.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Lance Camisasca, Bike Show Director at the Big Gear Show. A second-time guest on the podcast, Lance has served in the trade show industry for over 20 years. Lance is an experienced event creator and director who is globally acclaimed for hosting productive and purposeful gatherings whose blueprints are proven to be years ahead of their time, and the NBDA team has been thrilled to work alongside him and his team preparing for the must-attend industry trade show, the Big Gear Show 2022. Today we are going to dive into the origins of the Big Gear Show, highlights from 2021, all to expect for 2022, and conclude in a call-to-action for retailers and brands at large - come play with us!
2021 Big Gear Show Re-Cap: https://nbda.com/celebrating-the-magic-of-the-big-gear-show/
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Neal Norton, owner of The Bikery in St Petersburg, Florida. The Bikery is a laid-back haunt for coffee, espresso, and pastries, plus a shop selling bicycles, gear, and accessories. The shop opened in 2016 after the idea came to Neal’s son Taylor when he was checking out bike shops online and noticed an awesome shop located in Berlin, Germany that bought and sold vintage racing bikes as well as running a neat little coffee shop. Neal was into the craft coffee movement that was just gaining steam in the Tampa Bay area. Taylor knows bikes and Dad loves coffee, so the idea for The Bikery was born. Listen in as we talk about the unique features of The Bikery, how the shop works with their employees, focusing on service shop efficiency, and the future of retail.
References: https://stevenpdennis.com/remarkable-retail/, https://www.retailprophet.com/books/
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guests are Monica Garrison, Black Girls Do Bike (BGDB) founder, and Chicago Chapter Shero, Celeste Adams. With over 100 chapters in the US, BGDB is a nonprofit growing and supporting a community of women of color who share a passion for cycling.
They strive to establish a comfortable place where female cyclists can support, advise, organize rides, and promote skill-sharing. By sharing positive images of ladies and their bikes, they affirm that black girls do bike! BGDB also encourages bike advocacy, education, volunteerism, and safety in all communities and worldwide.
Guest Host Sheri Rosenbaum, columnist, and Blogger at Sunflower and Pedals, will be chatting with Monica and Celeste. Topics include BGDB’s new partnership with Zwift, ideas on how shop owners can make women of color feel more invited, and the need for the cycling industry to offer extended sizing. We also discuss the challenges of proper helmet fit for black cyclists with natural hair, dreadlocks, or an afro. Helmets are an essential accessory requiring shops and helmet manufacturers to consider this issue.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
How to Increase Your Store’s Average Transaction Value
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guests are from the transformative nonprofit organization Trips for Kids. Joining us is Amy Carver, Director of Community and Development and RJ Heckelman, Director of Partnerships and Resources. Both Amy and RJ have been putting passion, energy, and resources into developmental programming at Trips for Kids. Trips for Kids is a nonprofit that provides meaningful cycling programs that inspire children to achieve their highest potential. Since 1988, they have been providing transformative cycling experiences through a network of members that promote healthy, recreational lifestyles, environmental awareness, and personal empowerment for young people of all communities, especially those most in need. The NBDA is a proud community partner of their work. Listen in and learn more about Trips for Kids, current and new programming, and how you as a retailer can and should get involved. Save the Earth, Ride a Bike Campaign
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Matt Lyon. Matt is the President and CEO of HydraPak. He’s worked in the outdoor industry for decades and serves as the Board Chair of the California Outdoor Recreation Partnership. In 2018, Polar Bottle, a US-made Colorado based company, joined HydraPak, forming a partnership between two industry leaders and creating new ways to live out the Polar Bottle message. Focused on the bike market and growth and being a cyclist himself, Matt has refined the Polar Bottle line, expanded the US facility, and focused on custom bottles, quick turnaround, and retailer flexibility. In this conversation we will dive into the history of the two companies, the US expansion, Polar Bottle brand, state of the industry, and future plans.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Bryan Hance, co-founder of Bike Index, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a universal bike registration service. Their database is used and searched by individuals, bike shops, law enforcement, and other apps giving everyone the ability to register and recover bicycles.
Bryan created StolenBicycleRegistry.com in 2004 because he had way too many bikes stolen - and he realized chasing and recovering stolen bikes was really fun. He works in cyber security and applies OSINT (Open Source Intelligence) methods and processes to chasing bike thieves.
This episode is hosted by guest host Sheri Rosenbaum, columnist and blogger at Sunflower and Pedals. Sheri will be chatting with Bryan on the hot topic of bike shop break-ins and thefts, why shops are being targeted, how they discovered stolen bikes in Mexico, and other timely issues.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Stuart Blyth, CEO and Co-Founder of Hubtiger, a multisided platform for the cycling industry. Hubtiger is a powerful online solution designed to improve workshop efficiency with online bookings, service scheduling, and automated communications. In addition to massive service center efficiency gains, Hubtiger, working in combination with retailers’ point-of-sale software, has been invaluable in fostering positive relationships between bike stores and customers by increasing awareness of customer history, enabling frequent communications, and boosting trust through greater transparency on what servicing has been done and when. Hubtiger is considered a Digital Game Changer for bicycle retail service centers. In this conversation, you will listen in to learn more about the Co-Founder and how Hubtiger can help your bicycle store elevate and modernize your service center administration while connecting the cycling ecosystem for the benefit of all.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Brian Shirk, Owner of Lodi Cyclery in Lodi, California. Fueled by a passion for cycling, Brian Shirk and his wife Karin opened Lodi Cyclery in January of 2021. The 2,200 square foot location has quickly become a hub of the community, with group rides, a Strava club, and custom shop cycling kit. Brain and his wife are active in the small business community and stoked to bring a bike shop back to Lodi. Listen in as we discuss what it was like to open a bike shop during the pandemic, unique ways to work with the community, and plans for future rider experiences.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Brett Lang, Co-Founder of Ikeono, a texting platform that allows retailers to communicate easily with their customers. Brett started managing Tibella Sports Group in 2017, and quickly realized the industry deserved a better way to communicate. Brett founded Ikeono with his brother Dru Lang, and the platform has changed what communication with our customers looks like and further automated the customer feedback loop to drive positive experiences to review sites. As retailers, we know that customer communication is at the core of everything we do. This conversation will leave you inspired for how streamlined, direct, and efficient your communication can be, allowing you to free up some of your valuable time.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Amanda Batty, owner of the Bike Coop in Albuquerque, New Mexico, a professional athlete, a bike industry columnist, self-proclaimed trouble-making critic, and simply one badass human. Her raw, honest writing has captivated a following in our industry, her simple, elegant words carry no bullshit and simply tell things as she sees them. She took that same fire and passion and took over the Bike Coop ownership last fall. In this conversation we catch up with her about the shop, the continued bike boom, racing, and the current state of the industry.
Find Amanda online: https://www.bikecoopabq.com/, https://www.amandabatty.com/
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Hans Rey. Hans is considered the world’s leader in extreme mountain biking. He is a former trials world riding champion, a showman, stuntman, and an adventure mountain biker. He has traveled the world extensively riding over and through areas considered unrideable, all the while capturing the cultural, scenic, and spiritual aspects of these locations. Founding a nonprofit, Wheels for Life, Hans provides bikes for people in developing countries to use for transportation. In this special episode, Chad Pickard, NBDA Board Member and owner of Spoke-N-Sport Bikes in SD, sits down with Hans and catches up on the industry now, the bike boom, and everything to come, from the eyes of a legend.
Slay The Bay - Urban MTB Adventure in San Francisco w Hans Rey and Brett Tippie
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
A Special Message from NBDA President, Heather Mason.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Rick Snyder, owner of Mike’s Bike Shop in New Brunswick, Canada. Mike’s Bike Shop won not only a Silver Level Excellence Award in the 2021 Bicycle Retailer of Excellence Awards, but also won People’s Choice and has been winning this prestigious award for many years. This is only one of many accolades; the shop also has won Canadian Cyclist’s Bike Shop of the Year - Atlantic Region many times. In the bike business for over 40 years, Rick has learned what is successful for his business and what is not. He also has built one big destination store in Dieppe, NB that functions as HQ, serves all the Maritime provinces and beyond, and supports a huge online business. Rick would tell you the success of Mike’s Bike Shop is also thanks to its 25+ employees and the trust he and his staff build through relationships with customers is what keeps clients coming back.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Scott Buelter, CEO and President of Ascent 360. A relationship marketing leader who specializes in optimizing marketing programs through data, analytics and technology, Scott has led and built marketing programs for over 50 Fortune 500 clients in multiple industries. Working closely with the team at the NBDA, Scott has been helping to lead retailers’ best practices in data collection, guiding and educating on the importance of offering personalized and customer-centric service. This is a timely conversation as we as an industry look for insight in marketing, communication, and outreach to keep all cyclists engaged with the industry and local retailer.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Marketing Strategies for 2022 and Beyond.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Michael Marckx, CEO and Founder of Moments of Cycling, a purveyor of the classic one day races in the United States, such as the Belgian Waffle Ride. Referred to as a creative strategist, his portfolio includes retailer, brand leader, community worker, and athlete. Michael is known for shaking things up and coming up with concepts that are new and disruptive; this conversation will provoke, inspire, and get the previously inert into motion.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Annual Physical Inventory Counts Best Tips
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Joe Coppola, Owner of Velo Concepts Bicycle Lab and Studio located in Culpeper, Virginia. Started in 2014, the bespoke bicycle retailer strives to be different from all others. Rather than take a one-size-fits-most approach, Velo Concepts' focus is on helping the rider select a bicycle that fits the unique needs, size, riding style and aspirations of the cyclist. The store features a state-of-the-art fitting lab, which, coupled with over 30 years’ experience performing fits, ensures that every rider gets professional-level fits using the latest technologies. They even have an in-house cycling sport orthotics lab. Joe is fanatical about the details and eager to take everyone's cycling journey next level - listen in for some sure takeaways for all retailers.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Retailer Profitability and Rethinking the Shopping Experience
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Sonya Looney, World Champion Professional cyclist, health coach, podcaster, keynote speaker, a current brand ambassador for 10 brands as well as owner of company, Moxy & Grit. Sonya is one of the largest social influencers in mountain biking in America, partnering with brands to generate new leads, create content and credibility, and devise marketing strategies. She has raced in over 20 countries and has over 25 career wins and course records in 11 countries. One badass human. With a passion for marketing, branding, nutrition, and overall wellness of body and mind, this conversation should leave you ready to pop the lids off your social media marketing and take your content and credibility to the next level.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In this episode, NBDA President Heather Mason is joined by NBDA Development Director Rachelle Schouten to talk about 2021 NBDA member events and shows, featuring highlights, bloopers and a few unknown moments. The conversation also explores the excitement that 2022 will bring, including the Bicycle Retailer Excellence Awards, Big Gear Show and member networking trips. Authentically Rachelle and Heather, this conversation leaves it all on the podcast.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guests are Danielle and Kate Nolan owners of Brown County Bikes in Nashville, Indiana; a woman and LGBTQ owned and operated bike shop. BCB is the only bike shop in downtown Nashville, IN which is home to Brown County State Park. The park boasts over 28 miles of pristine mountain biking trails and attracts over 3 million visitors to this small town every year. The mountain bike focused shop offers sales, service/repair, rental bikes, guided tours, professional coaching and clinics for all skill levels and ages. They also partnered with local coffee roaster Side Track to craft their own Costa Rican dark roast called Send It. Guest Host Sheri Rosenbaum, Columnist and Blogger @ Sunflower and Pedals, sat down with Danielle and Kate to discuss a variety of topics including bike shop basics, business aspects, marketing, community and the next generation on bikes!
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
A Holiday Poem for the Independent Bicycle Retailer
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guests are Steve and Kristin Brandt, owners of Massachusetts-based bicycle store Steve the Bike Guy. Steve the Bike Guy is a customer-focused, family-owned bike shop offering expert service, new bikes, parts & accessories, and lots of advice and help. A 2021 Bicycle Retailer of Excellence Award winning shop, listen in as Steve and Kristin share about the uniqueness of the shop, drop in Saturdays, marketing and community engagement, the shop blog, and a bit about bringing your authentic self into every interaction.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Nick Hage, General Manager North America & Japan at Dorel Sports. With the recent news of Cannondale assembly coming back to the US, the conversation with Nick not only explores deeper into the plans for the GA facility but expands to the health of US retailers. Topics include the model year change refresh, post-COVID USA retailer needs, and independent channel growth tips, including multi-brand, customer service, community engagement, and how retailers can take back some control. The NBDA is thankful to the team at Cannondale and their continued support not only of the NBDA but retailers and the industry at large.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guests are Allison and Chris Palmer, owners of Mystic Cycle Centre, located in Mystic, CT. Mystic Cycle Centre opened its doors in 1992, and Chris and Allison purchased the store in 2020. They are a BREA Platinum winning shop, 1 of 7 across North America, with a tradition of being a strong community partner, helping residents to grow as individuals and serving as contributing members of the small, close-knit communities of Westerly-Pawcatuck, Stonington Borough, and Mystic. Listen in as Allison and Chris share the excellence that is Mystic Cycle Centre.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guests are Jodi and Doug Hall, owners of Bike Therapy in Morgan Hill, CA. Bike Therapy opened its doors in September 2017. Both Doug and Jodi are avid life-long cyclists and are embedded in the Morgan Hill Community. Bike Therapy is a 2021 Platinum BREA Award winning shop, 1 of 7 across North America, with a goal to help everyone between the ages of 2 and 99 to discover the joys of pedaling, on the trails or on the road. Listen in as we reflect on this past year, dive into their journey to opening a shop, day to day operations, and how they split, divide, and conquer the day-to-day excellence that is Bike Therapy.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Building the best team for retail success.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Jeremiah Bishop. As a professional cross-country mountain bike racer, he won gold medals and national championship titles before venturing into ultra-endurance racing where his talent was unleashed. When mountain bike stage racing took off in the US, Jeremiah dominated with an unmatched streak of wins at all the major events. Jeremiah went on to establish a multi-surface Gran Fondo event that preceded what would become an explosive gravel cycling movement. A cycling coach, events consultant, and athlete ambassador for Canyon Bicycles, he loves mapping new routes, interpreting data, and testing limits. In his most recent venture, founding member of the Impossible Route team, he is the mastermind behind the routes, technical details, equipment, and expedition logistics. The Impossible Route documentary series is all about capturing the story and the adventure of cyclists trying to accomplish what might be considered IMPOSSIBLE. Listen in as we reflect on this past year, and how retailers can provide value and keep the stoke level high.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Take your business to the next level with the NBDA P2 Profitability Project.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
On this episode, John Robinson (he/him), NBDA Board Member and Owner of Johnny Velo Bikes in Columbus, OH, is joined by Stephanie Lenzo (she/her), a cyclist in Columbus, OH, Otto Bohn (he/him), owner of Spoken Bicycles in Middletown, OH, and Dante Escusa (she/her), Service Manager at Roll: Bicycle. Listen in as the panel has an open and honest conversation where they share stories, best practices, and suggestions for bike shops to make transgender customers and employees feel more comfortable in the shop environment.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Neil Wechsler, NBDA P2 Retail Management Consultant and part owner in Montlake Bicycle Shop located in Seattle, Washington. After 40 years of running small to medium sized retail companies, Neil switched roles and began consulting retailers to success and profitability. Infatuated with the bicycle business, Neil has taken every opportunity to get education, training, and professional guidance available, helping retailers with almost any aspect of bicycle retail management. Neil can address your concerns about staff development, inventory planning and control, vendor relations, financial analysis, continuous improvement programs, succession strategy and business valuation. Listen in as Neil shares his insight and unique tips.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Robb Zbierski, professional speaker, coach, bestselling author and consultant of the NBDA. Robb guides professionals and retailers alike to running a thriving business that operates seamlessly even when they aren’t in the office - or shop. The Bestselling Author of the book Master Your Mind; Counterintuitive Strategies to Refocus and Re-Energize Your Runaway Brain, Robb helps clients to develop professional skills and positive mindsets that allow them to easily discover their potential and maximize their results. NBDA members may have a chance to learn from him in our Monday Member Mingles, in our P2 groups, or at trade shows. Listen in as Robb shares his purpose to inject fun, while guiding you to increased productivity.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Reset, Reboot, Clean Up, and Press on. The NBDA is totally on your side.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Scott Montgomery, CEO and Founder of Crank Tank - a company offering CEO consulting, marketing, and Omni Channel strategy to brands and businesses. Scott's impressive background in managing businesses ranges from the origins of Cannondale Europe to the reintroduction of Scott bikes to the US market. Scott has played a pivotal role in guiding well-known brands to excellence. As CEO of Club Ride Apparel, he took the company to next level operations achieving 13.5 times sales growth. Additional CEO roles with Nutcase and Reynolds Cycling make Scott a global leader whose input and guidance you don’t want to miss.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
How to build operational efficiency at your retail bicycle store.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Master Wheel Builder Bill Mould, a Columbia University and Yale-educated scientist and engineer who served as a college professor, Air Force colonel, and civilian pilot among other things, before ‘retiring’ into his passion as a master mechanic and expert in bicycle physics and wheel building. He has written a book on bicycle physics and engineering, has hand-built more than 6,000 wheels, and continues to study wheels through research, experimentation, and conversations with experts around the world. In the industry, we affectionately refer to him as Bill Mould Wheels.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Today's guest is Tom Ranieri, the owner of Pacuare Outdoor Center. The outdoor center located in Costa Rica is about a love for adventure, never-ending exploring, and passion for travel. Hosting guests from all over the world, Pacuare Outdoor Center also offers an affiliate program to bicycle retailers who wish to suggest and offer to their customers and riders a chance to experience a trip of a lifetime, while offering the retailer a revenue boost for the referral. Today’s conversation is about why now is a good time to think outside of the box with customer-centric conversations and also to start thinking about packing the bags for a trip to remember.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Insight and future profitability in e-commerce - with Ben Barenholtz- Quivers
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Francisco Cornelio, lead mechanic, manager, dreamer, and creator at N+1 Cyclery and the N+1 vintage bicycle museum. N + 1 cyclery, located in Framingham, MA, was established in 2014. It isn't your typical bicycle shop. The vibe is different. The attitude is different. They are old world and new school. They know that your bicycle isn't just a bicycle, and they want to help you be whatever kind of rider you need to be. Listen in as Francisco shares his insight and unique tips.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Bicycle Shipping’s best shipping label practices- with BikeFlights.com
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In a recording on September 20th, 2021, NBDA President Heather Mason sat down with Rachelle Schouten, NBDA Development Director to talk about the upcoming 1st Annual Bicycle Industry Gala, recap CABDA Midwest and talk in more depth about the programing content- NBDA provides. With so many trade shows coming up, including Sea Otter, CABDA West, Philly Bike Expo and CABDA east the intent is to give you a little insight into what to expect and how you can interact with the NBDA. The industry will have a chance to unite on Friday September 24th for a very special evening celebrating the bike boom and encouraging new riders to mingle firsthand with us. Learn more about the Gala, silent auction, special cocktail and why you should organize a view party now. Tickets available at: https://nbda.com/programs/bicycle-industry-gala/
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In a recording on August 31, 2021, NBDA President Heather Mason sat down with Jim Kersten, CEO and show Director of Bicycle Industry Trade Shows CABDA Midwest, West, East, and Summit, to talk about the upcoming CABDA shows and how and why retailers should take part in these events during these unique times. Relaunched in 2015, CABDA has grown from a small, single event outside Chicago, to become North America's series of B2B Events in the Bicycle Industry.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Scott Holz, senior program manager at Specialized Bicycles. During his 13 years at Specialized, he progressed from SBCU instructor to brand strategist, and then manager of a global team before moving into his current role as a Senior Program Manager for the brand's single largest market. He has created brand strategies and directives for a global network of over 3,000 independent retail partners.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Pro Tips for Bike Retailers – Presented by Ascent 360
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Mercedes Ross, executive director of Project Bike Tech. Voted one of the top 50 Influential Businesswomen in the bike industry, Mercedes leads an amazing non-profit that uses bicycle education as a conduit to teach core academics, enhance lives, create career opportunities, and inspire new generations to be passionate about bikes. She's worked in the ski, outdoor, motorcycle, scuba, and craft brewing industries, as well as owned her own motorcycle retail store for 15 years. Mercedes has led countless sales team training seminars and has been a featured speaker in both the bicycle and motorcycle industry national trade shows.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Elevate the Post Bike-Sale Customer Experience with Your Knowledge. - Presented by QBP/BIKEFIT
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Lauren Jenkins, Communications Director at the League of American Bicyclists. Lauren handles all of the League's communications, everything from social media to what you see on the website. Her goal is to inspire people to ride bikes, advocate for safer roads, and celebrate the joy of cycling through storytelling. Lauren joined the League in 2019 after seven years as a public relations consultant. Listen in to learn more about the League’s programming and how you can interact to join in making a more bicycle-friendly America.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
How to talk to customers- Presented by HLC
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Today's guest is Lance Camisasca, bike show director at the Big Gear Show. Having served in the trade show industry for over 20 years, Lance is an experienced event creator and director who is globally acclaimed for hosting productive and purposeful gatherings whose blueprints are proven to be years ahead of their time. Learn from this conversation more about Lance, takeaways from Big Gear show 2021, and a glimpse into the future ahead.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Customer service traits you should look for when hiring.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Bob Stomel, Director of Sales for the Huffy Corporation. With a bicycle industry background that spans an impressive 34 years, Bob has not only led and inspired sales teams but developed bicycle sales programs for national and regional retailers. An impressive background in monitoring sales, marketing, product development, forecasting, customer care, and team building lends Bob to be a visionary on the future of bicycle retail.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In a recording on July 27, 2021, NBDA President Heather Mason sat down with Aaron Stehly, Director of Education at Quality Bicycle Products, and Jeff Donaldson, Barnett Bicycle Institute School Director and leader of all technical training at U of Q and QBP centered around service departments and profitability, to talk about the topic of the bicycle retail service center. Topics covered include staffing, turnaround, pricing, e-specific repairs, paper verse paperless, and more. Addressing retailers' concerns over rapidly changing environments, Aaron and Jeff offer candid guidance and support while answering several questions submitted via NBDA members in this special event.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
4 important Components of Retail Sales Training
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Fred Clements. Holding the office of Executive Director for the National Bicycle Dealers Association from 1989 to 2017, an unprecedented 27 years, Fred has a background that spans journalism to retail relationships. Past contributing to an NBDA Executive director blog in the industry trade publication, Bicycle Retailer and Industry News, Fred brings to the conversation a rich history, future predictions, and lots of cycling industry love.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Investing in yourself and your bicycle retail store or career.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Larry Black, Founder of Mount Airy Bicycle and College Park Bicycle in Maryland. His shops have been fixtures for 42 years and he is a major proponent of cycling for everyone from toddler to pro. The shops are known for catering to special needs and obscure and unusual merchandise. The shops host special events, support charities, and were recently featured as one of 7 businesses in an annual magazine. This must-listen conversation provides a fantastic retailer-to-retailer guide.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
NBDA President Heather Mason sat down with Kailey Kornhauser to talk candidly on how we can upscale our practices to meet larger-bodied riders. Kailey Kornhauser, a cycling advocate doing work to create more body size inclusivity in all types of bicycling and recently featured in the Shimano film “All Bodies on Bikes”, talks with us about her journey and lends advice to retailers, suppliers, and riders alike.
Listen in to learn how to pop the lid off the term “cyclist” and get resources and education on how we can continue to engage riders of all sizes, shapes, colors, and backgrounds. Make every person's journey into and onward through our sport the most transformative possible.
Change starts with us. This interview is for retailers, suppliers, riders, advocates, and all of us who fit anywhere in between.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Why you need Linktree on your Instagram Account.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Dan Kowalke, General Manager of Retail Toolkit. Dan is known for his collaborative nature and digital mindset. He is dedicated to helping independent retailers obtain data literacy to understand trends and unlock profits by providing actionable insights that increase margins, inventory turn velocity, and improve cash flow. Authentically upskilling specialty retail operations with real-time data and digital automation, this is a conversation not to miss.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In a recording on June 21, 2021, NBDA President Heather Mason sat down with Bob Margevicius, Executive Vice President of Specialized Bicycle Components, to talk about the current state of the industry. Addressing retailers' concerns over supply, shipping costs, and future expectations, Bob speaks candidly about what he is seeing and answers several questions submitted via NBDA members in a special one-on-one event.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Tobie DePauw, Affiliate Wizard at PeopleforBikes Ride Spot. Tobie and Ride spot could not be more perfectly matched. He is an experienced community builder, maker, and creative with a history of bringing people together to cultivate authentic relationships and create memorable experiences. His passions lie at the intersection of creativity, marketing, and leadership, and he is able to do just that in his position at PeopleforBikes Ride Spot, a digital platform designed to help independent bicycle retailers position themselves as the community hub. For retailers looking to change the way they interact with their community, this is a must-listen.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Brian Hawkins, owner of Colorado-based Fixture Lab - a leader in proven fixture, design, and merchandising solutions for bicycle retailers. Brian’s path in the bicycle industry started from building bikes Wheatridge Cycles when he was 14 to handling advertising, marketing, research, event planning, and program development for multiple global brands including Giant, Liv, SRAM, Tern, Alchemy, Cat Eye, Project Bike Tech, Skratch Labs, and more….and of course to date, working with about 200 retailers in the bike, fly fishing, and running worlds.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Creating a customer-centric retail environment.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Valerie Chan. Valerie is the founder of Plat4orm, a multi-million dollar privately held communications company, a seasoned business leader, a technology communications expert, and a TED X speaker. She is known for helping companies succeed by shaping their narratives. Her writing can be found in Forbes and Entrepreneur. Through her own story of resilience following a horrific accident, Valerie comes to the podcast to talk about how we can rise as retailers moving forward. How can we continue to find new ways to execute, to dig deep within, and thrive; how we show up each day for ourselves, how we show up for our business. How we can ask ourselves what we can create and how we will do it while truly allowing ourselves to listen to our inner voice.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Greg Robidoux, Executive Director at Serotta International Cycling Institute (SICI). SICI offers classes, bicycle fitting equipment, and consulting to bicycling retailers and coaches. Fit services are an excellent resource for revenue and ensure new cyclists find not only comfort but optimal performance while on the bike. Something for retailers to be focused on and talking about.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Why your bicycle retail store needs a loyalty program.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is George Lee, a known retail expert with an unwavering desire to innovate, implement, and take every business and everybody in his environment to the next level. His bicycle industry career is centered on strategic thinking, planning, and profitability. He is leading the retail strategy and operations growth plan of Conte's Bike shop-the biggest bicycle retail business on the East Coast. So much content in this episode, it’s really like 5 podcasts in one. This is a listen, and then listen again.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is David Rosen, CEO and Founder of Sage Titanium Bicycle Company. Founded in 2012, Sage titanium bikes are 100 percent designed, cut, welded, and finished right here in the United States. In this episode we talk with David about starting a US company, navigating drivetrain manufacturer relationships, selling consumer direct while managing dealer relationships, and the satisfaction of getting more Americans on American-made bicycles.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Shawna Macan, Manager at Mojo cycling in Bentonville, Arkansas, and a member of the 2021 Bicycle Retailer and Industry News Retailer Panel. With contagious energy and enthusiasm, she is leading a passion-filled charge for welcoming more riders and diversity into our sport and industry.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Using Bike Exchange to compliment your Click and Collect options.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This episode’s guest is Albert Cabbad, owner of R&A Cycles. R&A has 2 locations offering cutting-edge inventory. Al has over 30 years' knowledge of cycling and fitting and believes only in advertising products that R&A Cycles has physically in store. Al is leading out retail with an honest reputation and an immense desire to fulfill all of their customer's needs.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
The Importance of Retailers Selling Everywhere.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Retailer’s Top Takeaways:
- Current e-commerce landscape
- Add on sales in e-commerce
- Forward trends in e-commerce
In this episode we talk with Ryan Atkinson, President and Co-Owner of SmartEtailing; a company committed to the success of local independent bicycle retailers by providing software and services that help them effectively compete in an evolving retail environment. Smartetailing provides website, marketing, and data solutions exclusively in the cycling industry. Bike shop e-commerce has seen tremendous growth recently which has solidified the value SmartEtailing delivers for bike shops. The company recently announced their planned merger with Retail Toolkit as they expand their capabilities into business intelligence and marketing automation. In this episode, we chat with Ryan about the current landscape as well as engage with him in an NBDA member-submitted Q&A session.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Visual Merchandising and How to Make Standout Product Displays
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Retailer’s Top Takeaways:
- Redefining what a bicycle shop can be.
- E-commerce in Bicycle Retail
- Making your business more personal
In this episode, we talk with Jeff Cayley, an entrepreneur who believes in chasing your passions in life, having fun doing it, and hopefully making some people happy along the way. Jeff is one impressive guy with a can’t help but notice business model. Redefining what a bike shop can be, he is leading consumer-centric retail by creating a uniquely holistic customer experience. Employing 40 of the most talented individuals his team curates extensive amounts of sharable media to make every interaction simply more than a shopping experience.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Meet Steve Hellin. Steve is the driving force behind Bike Exchange. Bike Exchange makes it easier for people to find, research, and buy all their cycling-related needs, through destination marketplaces. They support and connect hundreds of retail bike stores and brands around the world. Steve joined BikeExchange in March of 2020. Prior to BikeExchange, Steve held various leadership positions in the software and e-commerce industries at companies including IBM and ChannelAdvisor.
Key takeaways:
- Utilizing Bike Exchange as a sales channel
- Keeping the bike boom alive
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Meet Nate Nordstrom. Lifelong entrepreneur and new business owner of an e-centric bicycle retail location featuring electric assist bikes, electric scooters, and traditional “acoustic” bikes.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Meet Mark Sutton. A cycling journalist with over 15 years of experience who established Cycling Industry News; a global brand and leader in its domestic market. A freelance contributor to various industry publications with a keen interest in everyday cycling, product innovation, and cycling infrastructure. His goal is to promote cycling at a local, national, and global level.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Meet Matt Wallin. Outside of running a shop, Matt is building a community, specifically a community-based program for youth. His focus is on managing and building trails, coaching the high school cycling team, technical clinics, and community outreach. His shop is leading the path for a new style of retail.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Specializing in bicycle industry insurance programs. Bike Shops, Product Liability for manufacturers/suppliers, professional trail building contractors, advocacy groups, and everything in between, Scott is an athlete who lives in the same hometown as the American Birkebeiner Ski Race. He started the Fat Bike Birke, as well as helped to launch a 55-mile fat bike trail system. He was a 12-year board member for the Birke and is co-author of the Economic Impact of Trails/ Silent Sports. His current work is endorsed by NBDA, PBMA, Bike Cooperative, QBP, and others.
Meet Scott Chapin.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
The Importance of Cleanliness in Retail.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Bike shop owner of Twisted Spokes in Johns Creek, Georgia, known for engaging women, growing interest, working with the community, and advocacy. A once legal career has assisted her in those areas and helped her rally others. A life-changing accident affected her love of teaching children and other beginners. Today we will not only learn Shellie’s story but ways we can implement similar techniques to build an engaged active community around our shop.
Meet Shellie Dimery-Noisette.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
An industry veteran and visionary in leading real-time service contracts and insurance consulting.
Meet Frank McMillian.
Founder of Ensure Protect, developer of R.I.D.E.S, (Ride it Daily Extended Service), Frank brings years of experience to the mic. Co-founding the first online real-time service contract solution.
Later adopted by Dell and Amazon, Frank brings to the conversation an in-depth look at his platform R.I.D.E.S, he shares the vision of the program, the profitability aspect, and the tools for retailers to implement now. More than service contract conversation, we talk about customer service, customer retention, racing sea otter, and all the personal bits that lend themselves to success.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Create a truly personalized shopping experience.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Saving the world one bike at a time.
Meet Amos Brumble.
Bike racer, coach, shop owner, and executive, Amos is leading out a specific type of retail. Sharing with us insights on delivering to your customers exactly what they want. Creating retail hours based on when your customers shop and going above the in-store visit to optimizing the customer interactions via dedicated newsletters. Always connecting on a personal level, the conversation covers everything from relationships with your brand reps to the value in making time to ride and following through on your statements around putting customers first. This is a must-listen.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
5 things you can do today to increase business that cost you absolutely nothing.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Welcome to Season 2 of Bicycle Retail Radio, where NBDA President Heather Mason will meet with industry professionals to have conversations to provoke, educate, inspire and empower you to your best retail self.
The first episode of this new season of Bicycle Retail Radio is with Rachelle Schouten, Development Director of the NBDA.
The “glue” of the National Bicycle Dealers Association. Guiding programs, member communications, social feeds, and the P2 project; considered the backside of the organization.
Meet Rachelle Schouten.
A trained violinist who found her way to the bicycle industry, Rachelle penned the often-read Outspokin' blog titled Adapt or Die the 4 Keys to Retail Success, as well as facilitates the Americas Best Bike Shop Program. Her role at the NBDA allows her to see many sides of the industry and this thought-provoking episode uncovers some great tips for retailers on the importance of your network, how to trust your path, overcome bad advice and take the leap to further your business by investing in yourself.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Tara Kuipers, coordinator for the NBDA's P2 Groups, is joined by Tim Krone, owner of Pedal Bicycle in Michigan and current NBDA Board Member, to talk about the P2 Program and Tim's experience as a member of a P2 Group. P2: The Profitability Project brings together non-competing retailers to share data, successes, tips, and secrets to building and maintaining bicycle retailer profitability. Members gain access to critical support that would be far costlier through individual consulting. Listen in for insight into the program and some tips that Tim has learned along the way.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Fred Clements returns in this episode to talk with Marc Sani about the history of Bicycle Retailer and Industry News Magazine, the leading trade magazine and website for the global bicycle industry. Marc is the co-founder of BRAIN Magazine and tells us about starting the project in 1992, seeing the popularity rise, launching the website, being bought by the NBDA, becoming the publisher, and moving to Pocket Outdoor Media. He also looks in the crystal ball for what might be in store for the magazine in the future. Website: https://www.bicycleretailer.com/
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In this episode, Steph Waite from Johnny Velo Bikes in Columbus, OH is back to talk with Heather Mason, former pro-racer and bike shop owner, and current coordinator of Bianchi USA’s women’s ambassador program, this time about how to engage customers in a contactless world. Every customer is important but especially those new customers who may be experiencing an independent bicycle dealer for the first time right now, at a time when we're all working hard. Retailers are struggling to put your best foot forward, you have short inventory and long wait times, and the customer experience is not what you're used to providing. Steph and Heather are here to give you actionable tips on how to improve your customer experience and leave these new customers with a great impression.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Fred Clements is back with us to interview John McConnochie, owner of Cycle Alaska. Cycle Alaska is a bike shop in Juneau, Alaska, and is unique because a lot of their business comes from bike tours given to cruise ship passengers. Tune in to find out about the bike culture in Juneau, how the shop deals with the extreme seasonal conditions, and how they have adapted now that tourism is effectively halted.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In this episode, Chad Pickard, owner of Spoke-n-Sport in South Dakota and NBDA board member, is joined once again by Woody Smith, owner and President of Richardson Bike Mart. Chad and Woody delve into the availability of bikes, inventory and sales of parts and accessories, their experience with vendors, and Woody's plan for the year ahead.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
James Stanfill, President of the Professional Bicycle Mechanics Association, joins Chad Pickard this week to talk about PBMA's BIPOC UBI Scholarship Fundraiser in which donations will be used to directly assist a person or persons from the Black, Indigenous and People of Color communities to attend a UBI training. This will include, airfare, lodging, meals, and tuition. Chad and James talk about why diversity in the industry is important and how you can make a difference. Donate to the fundraiser today by going to https://www.probma.org/pbma-bipoc-grant.html.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
What do Lycra and leather have in common? An enthusiastic, loyal customer base… composed primarily of white, male riders...
Pat Hus, former director of Interbike, interviews bicycle and Harley-Davidson retailer George Gatto about what bicycle retailers and manufacturers can learn from Harley-Davidson. You’ll hear how Harley supports retailers through education and incentive programs that encourage good business decisions among their dealers. Gatto also shares how this brand that once attracted a primarily white, male customer base has created an inclusive marketing and engagement strategy to attract and serve diverse new riders.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In this episode, John Robinson, owner of Johnny Velo Bikes in Columbus, Ohio, and board member of the NBDA is back to interview Donny Perry, author of Leading Out Retail. In Leading Out Retail, Perry combines hundreds of hours of research, a rich trove of social science, and his counterintuitive insights as he explains a paradigm shift in the industry of bicycle retail. Within this paradigm shift, Perry teaches retailers simple strategies on how to increase profit through service, what the most important question to ask every customer is, and how to manage the dreaded Timmy Factor.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This week, Chad Pickard, NBDA Board Member and owner of Spoke-N-Sport in Sioux Falls, SD, is joined by John Robinson, fellow NBDA Board Member and owner of Johnny Velo Bikes in Columbus, OH, for a discussion on customers and profitability. Is the customer always right? Does saying "yes" to a customer sometimes cost more than saying "no"? Join in on the discussion and feel free to weigh in on social media!
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This week Kat Andrus, Youth Program Manager at PeopleforBikes, joins us again to interview Andree Sanders, President of Trips for Kids Metro NY. Andree is nicknamed the "bike whisperer" based on her teaching methods when teaching people how to ride. Adree has taught over 1000 kids to ride off-road, is now a certified NICA coach, has helped hundreds learn to ride, and is a League Certified Instructor through the League of American Bicyclists. She shares with us in this episode how she approaches teaching and how she works with bike shops to get more kids on bikes.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In this episode, David DeKeyser joins us once again to interview Dan Thornton, owner of Free-Flite Bicycles. Dan has been in the industry for over 40 years and has a great sense of business. He talks to Dave about opening his skateboard shop in 1977, transitioning to a bike shop in 1978, opening more locations, and getting back into an active role in the business this year. Dan also shares with us how he keeps up his "continuous improvement" mentality and how he keeps his employees happy through an incredibly busy time.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This week, Dave DeKeyser, Business Consultant for the NBDA, returns to interview Todd Cravens, Vice President of Business Development at Quality Bicycle Products. Dave and Todd talk about trends and best practices that they have observed for running a profitable bike shop. In his position at QBP, Todd works with many bike shops at all levels and it has given him great insights into the hard numbers that he shares with us today.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
This week, Giant Group's U.S. general manager John "JT" Thompson joins Chad Pickard, NBDA Board Member and owner of Spoke-N-Sport in Sioux Falls, SD, to talk about Giant Bicycles and the general state of the industry.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In this episode, Chad Pickard, owner of Spoke N' Sport in Sioux Falls, SD, and NBDA board member, returns for a very special interview with Gary Fisher. Gary has a rich and storied career and is considered one of the inventors of the modern mountain bike. Gary joins us today to talk about what he experienced during the bike boom of the 1970's and his take on whether or not the bike boom the world is currently seeing is comparable.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In this episode, Kat Andrus, Youth Program Manager at PeopleforBikes, interviews Sabra Davison, co-founder and Executive Director of Little Bellas. Kat and Sabra discuss youth programs in the bicycling industry, why they are important, and how bike shops can get involved.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
More women than ever are getting into all forms of cycling, while bike shops and the industry as a whole are still largely male-dominated. But any dealer can take a few simple steps to make their shop the one women choose when buying a bike. In this episode of Bicycle Retail Radio, Heather Mason, former pro-racer and bike shop owner, and current coordinator of Bianchi USA’s women’s ambassador program shares how.
If you’re a shop owner who’s skeptical about women’s programming you aren’t alone. Mason admits she was skeptical, too, until she saw the outcomes. You’ll learn how to start women-led programming even if your shop has no women on staff, and what small changes you can make that will improve the customer experience for everyone.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In this episode of Bicycle Retail Radio, Chad Pickard, NBDA board member and owner of Spoke N Sport in Sioux Falls, SD, speaks with Tobie DePauw, Affiliate Wrangler at People for Bikes and owner of Mordecai Book Building and Stewardship Retail. Tobie talks about the value that brick and mortar retail stores have and how powerful the human connection is in creating a community around your store. He also discusses how to make sure that your customer's experience in and out of your store is fantastic so that they fall in love with cycling and become a lifetime customer.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Now is an uncertain time for retail. The COVID-19 pandemic is forcing retailers to make difficult decisions like whether to close their store or not, whether or not to lay off employees, whether to ask for rent deferral or not, etc. We think that now it is more important than ever to come together and share ideas and practices between retailers all over the nation.
For the fourth episode in this series, Fred Clements interviews Gayle Shanks, owner of Changing Hands Bookstore with locations in Phoenix and Tempe, Arizona, and former president of the American Booksellers Association. Gayle has cultivated a passionate community around her bookstore and while talking to Fred, finds the similarities between the struggles that both bike and booksellers have faced for the last 20 years.
You can see some of the programs discussed in the episode at Changing Hands' website www.changinghands.com.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Now is an uncertain time for retail. The COVID-19 pandemic is forcing retailers to make difficult decisions like whether to close their store or not, whether or not to lay off employees, whether to ask for rent deferral or not, etc. We think that now it is more important than ever to come together and share ideas and practices between retailers all over the nation.
For the third episode in this series, Ray Keener interviews Lester Binegar, General Manager/Operator/Bookkeeper for University Bicycles in Boulder, Colorado. Ray and Lester discuss why University Bikes has stayed open and the shifts in business practices that they have made in order to do so.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Now is an uncertain time for retail. The COVID-19 pandemic is forcing retailers to make difficult decisions like whether to close their store or not, whether or not to lay off employees, whether to ask for rent deferral or not, etc. We think that now it is more important than ever to come together and share ideas and practices between retailers all over the nation.
For the second episode in this series, Fred Clements interviews Peter Henry, owner of Landry's Bicycles in Boston, Massachusetts, and NBDA Board Member about what he is experiencing in Massachusetts at this time and what procedures he has put in place for his business. Peter shares his concerns with being so close to the "hot spot" in New York as well as how he communicates procedures to keep all 7 Landry's stores informed and safe.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Now is an uncertain time for retail. The COVID-19 pandemic is forcing retailers to make difficult decisions like whether to close their store or not, whether or not to lay off employees, whether to ask for rent deferral or not, etc. We think that now it is more important than ever to come together and share ideas and practices between retailers all over the nation.
For the first episode in this series, Brandee Lepak, Owner of Global Bikes in Pheonix, AZ, and President of the NBDA interviews Tim Krone, owner of Pedal in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and NBDA Board Member about what he is experiencing in Michigan at this time and what procedures he has put in place for his business.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Each customer comes to you with a different story. As a retailer, you have the choice of how you interact with your customer and how to influence how they feel when they leave your store. Brett Flemming, owner of Efficient Velo Tools, joins Fred Clements in this episode to share his insights and advice on how to meet every customer with aggressive agreeability and ensure they leave your shop with a smile.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Kristi Mohn is a gravel coach, a champion for women’s cycling, and one of the original organizers of Dirty Kanza. She fell into cycling organically when she and her husband were looking for a way to stay fit. As a Kansan seeking adventure, finding her way to gravel and Dirty Kanza was a no-brainer.
In this episode of Bicycle Retail Radio, Kristi shares her thoughts on how and why gravel cycling has grown and what she’s doing to increase women’s participation in the sport. You’ll also learn what barriers women face as they try to get started in cycling, and how bike shops can help. Kristi also offers a peek behind the scenes of Dirty Kanza, from gratifying finish line moments to the joys and challenges of pulling off the event.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
It’s no secret that the relationship between dealers and vendors can be filled with tension. A strong relationship, however, can give shops a competitive edge as vendors go the extra mile to help you to keep your customers happy. From product advice to supply chain insights, your vendors are an essential part of your success.
In this episode of Bicycle Retail Radio, James Ayres, Domestic Sales Manager at Haro Bicycles, and Phil Cohen, NBDA board member and owner of Chain Reaction Bicycles, throw open the doors on their thriving dealer/vendor relationship so that you, too, can enjoy the benefits of a match made in heaven.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Ian Christie was a teenager when he cleaned bathrooms and did basic bike builds in a bike shop in exchange for parts. He eventually worked his way to a paying gig on the sales floor and realized this was the career path for him. He acquired Summit Bicycles when it had two locations in the Bay Area, and he’s expanded it to five, with a staff of 45-60 full-time-equivalent staff members across the company.
In this episode of Bicycle Retail Radio, Ian talks about the challenges of expanding your business and managing your shifting role as an owner when your business grows. You’ll hear Ian’s thoughts on how good bike shops (even your competitors) are good for the industry as a whole, and the opportunities he sees for his company in the coming years.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Mike DuVarney, Executive Director of the BMX Foundation, has the best job in the world: putting kids on bikes—and his enthusiasm for it is contagious. In this episode of Bicycle Retail Radio, you’ll learn how the BMX Foundation is igniting passion for cycling by bringing STE(A)M programs and BMX athletes into schools across the country.
Even if your shop doesn’t stock BMX bikes, you can still work with your local schools and camps to bring a Read to Ride, Track Modeling, or BMX STEM Program to your area, because kids on bikes today become adults on bikes tomorrow. The BMX Foundation is creating a pipeline of future cyclists while enhancing STE(A)M education and building
kids’ confidence on and off the bike.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Karen Weiner and Brett Thurber opened a bike shop ten years ago in California’s Bay Area with four e-bikes on consignment, and no previous bike shop experience—an asset that enabled them to bring fresh eyes and a creative approach to creating a mission-driven business model. They began by operating out of their apartment and delivering bikes by trailer, and today, The New Wheel has two locations, an offsite service center, and 28 employees.
In this episode of Bicycle Retailer Radio, Karen Weiner talks about the challenges and benefits of being an e-bike only retailer and how they’ve built their business around the unique needs of the e-bike consumer. Karen also talks candidly about the tension between dealer and bike manufacturer needs and goals, and how The New Wheel leverages their service department to enhance the rider experience and build customer loyalty.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Learn how to roll up your sleeves and dig into your shop’s data to become more profitable in this episode of Bicycle Retailer Radio. Joseph Du Bois opened his first Trek store in 2006, survived the 2008 recession, and now owns nine Florida Trek locations that have put customers on 50,000 bikes. Using a values-oriented philosophy and sales-driven mindset, Du Bois has mastered the art and science of running profitable, economically resilient bike shops.
In this podcast, he shares how he makes data-driven decisions to optimize inventory turn and how his shops offer services to offset low product margins. You’ll also learn what happened when Du Bois downsized three shops into smaller locations, and the formula he
uses for managing and calculating his payroll budget. No bike shop owner can afford to miss this episode.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Pat Hus, former show director of Interbike, joins us again to interview John David, COO of USA BMX. Pat and John have a great conversation about how to get more kids on bikes, how retailers can benefit from their local BMX track, and about their passion for the industry.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In this episode, Morgan Lommele, Director of State + Local Policy at People for Bikes, interviews Gary Sjoquist, Director of Advocacy at Quality Bicycle Products. Gary was the industry's first full-time advocate and has continued to do great work as an advocacy director for 22 years. Gary talks about how he got started and shares some of his favorite stories from his years as an advocate.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Fred Clements is back to interview James Moore, owner of Moore's Bicycle Shop in Hattiesburg, Mississippi and former NBDA Board Member, about his passion for sharing the joy of cycling with his local recovery centers. James has been speaking in addiction recovery centers for about 3 years after losing his son, Jeffrey to a heroin overdose in 2015. Listen in to hear about James' process and how you could get involved with your local recovery centers or local businesses.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
NBDA Board Member and owner of Spoke-n-Sport Chad Pickard talks with Stuart Hunter of Roll: Bicycle Company about his best practices and what he sees for the future of the industry. Listen in to learn about profitability, customer retention, competition, marketing, and more!
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Chris Cocalis, President and CEO of Pivot Cycles, joins Rod Judd, Membership and Development Director at People for Bikes, to talk about how he started in the bike industry and to get his take on the current state of the industry. Chris and Rod talk tariffs, retail, supplier behavior, and Chris gives his input on what he thinks the industry needs to be even more successful.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Fred Clements, former executive director of the NBDA, returns in this episode to talk to Joe Nocella, Owner of 718 Cyclery and creator of Bike Shop Day. Bike Shop Day (www.bikeshopday.com) serves to connect the independent bike shop (in all shapes and forms) and our community through inclusiveness, promoting a healthy lifestyle and sustainable local business practices. Learn how you can get your shop involved for this year's Bike Shop Day!
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In this episode, Amelia Kegel, NBDA Board Member and Co-Owner of Wheel & Sprocket, talks with Jenn Dice, COO of People for Bikes. Listen in to two passionate advocates for the industry share their insights on bike safety, local and national advocacy, why bike shops should get involved, and how you can help at any and all levels.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Listen in on a great conversation with Pat Hus, former Interbike show director, and Todd Sadow, Founder and President of Epic Rides, as they discuss how retailers can leverage large events to grow retail sales. If your foot traffic is down and the race event participation is up… How can we use these large events to drive demand in our retail locations?
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In this episode, Fred Clements, former executive director of the NBDA, interviews Dan Mann, retail expert and President and CEO of the Mann Group. Fred and Dann discuss best practices for making great retailers and how retail affects the industry as a whole.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In this episode, Scott Chapin of Marsh & McLennan interviews Kimo Seymour, the Senior Vice President in charge of events and media for Life Time, the parent of the Leadville 100 mountain bike race and the Dirty Kanza gravel race. Scott and Kimo talk about the trends they've seen in the cycling event space and about the kinds of successful relationships bike retailers can have with their local cycling events.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In this episode, Laura Neighbors, Community Engagement Coordinator at Bicycle Sport Shop in Austin, Texas talks to Lisa Cramton, co-founder of Chopwood Mercantile in Crested Butte, Colorado, NICA Coordinator, and former marketing manager of Pivot Cycles. These two powerful women discuss why they are passionate about getting women and kids on bikes and how they empower other women to to get involved in the industry.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In this episode, Specialty Bicycle Retailer and NBDA board member Chad Pickard interviews Woody Smith, owner and President of Richardson Bike Mart. Chad and Woody cover the history of Richardson Bike Mart, the challenges Woody has come across and how he navigated them, and how he successfully coordinates 4 stores, 17 brands, and 116 employees.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Tim Krone has been a P2 member for seven years, having joined the program when his shop, Pedal, was young and, perhaps, stupid. In this presentation, Tim will discuss his experiences with the program and some of the methods by which the P2 program helped him be at least moderately successful. It’s worth noting that neither the P2 program nor this presentation claims to be a silver bullet that will suddenly make you rich. Instead, both are more interested in the skills and habits that will help you make more money.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
In this episode, Scott Chapin of Marsh & McLennan interviews David DeKeyser, former owner of The Bike Hub in De Pere, Wisconsin and author of the Positive Spin series on Bicycle Retailer and Industry News magazine. David discusses how he built a successful and profitable bike shop and shares tips on what he thinks other bike shops can do to build their profitability.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
Today’s retail world is not for the faint of heart. Bike shops are under pressure that they historically weren’t...to be legitimate retail leaders in terms of the product they offer, the people they employ and the style/brand experience they offer. The great shops these days pay close attention to the retail trends outside the bike world and create experiences for their customers that rival the best retail from any category out there. In this fun presentation, industry veteran Brian Hawkins will share a ton of insights into the trends that bike shops should be paying attention to, and what the great bike shops of today and tomorrow will look like.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
We are very excited to bring you this webinar from our friends at Wheel & Sprocket! It isn't often that you get someone to tell you all of their secrets for success, but we talked them into it. You can expect to learn about the e-bike customer, understanding e-bike basics, and sales techniques. They will also address frequent questions they get from their customers about e-bikes.
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)
On 5/29/2019, the NBDA hosted a webinar presentation on tariffs from Robert (Bob) Margevicius, Executive Vice President of Specialized. Bob has extensive experience working with trade on a National level and has a seat at the most important table in Washington DC. He not only represents the vendor side but also speaks on behalf of retailers when he advises. He currently serves as a USA Industry Trade Advisor to the Secretary of Commerce (Wilbur Ross) and the USA Trade Ambassador (Robert Lighthizer).
What does all this mean to retailers and, further, to the industry?
The proposed 25 percent tariff on these three categories-bicycles, bicycle components and bicycle safety accessories-could have catastrophic consequences for the U.S. bicycle market. This industry supports thousands of jobs at companies like Specialized and, of course, the thousands of independent retail bicycle shops you operate that sell, repair, maintain and service bicycles.
What you will learn:
- What is a tariff?
- What is the purpose of a tariff?
- All the rhetoric about section 232 and 301 tariffs. What do they mean and why?
- How do the section 232 and 301 tariffs impact the bicycle industry?
- What are the tariffs that apply to bicycles and bicycle parts?
- So, section 232 only impact domestic products (Racks, Kickstands, metal products etc.), and DO NOT impact E-Bikes, bikes, bike parts, Bike accessories directly
- But section 301 tariffs apply directly to bicycles, E-Bikes, parts and accessories from China. How much is this?
- What companies and retail channels are impacted by the section 301 tariffs?
- How does this impact me?
- What can I do to navigate this situation?
Support the show (https://www.nbda.com/donate)