Shifting Gears: Roam Fest's Mission to Transform Mountain Biking Culture

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, the Ski Moms welcome Sam Ryan, Director of Partnerships at Roam Fest, who shares her evolution from mental health professional to mountain bike advocate. Sam discusses how Roam Fest has grown from a small gathering to an 800+ person celebration of women and non-binary riders, complete with workshops, guided rides, and legendary dance parties.Sam offers valuable insights for newcomers to mountain biking, emphasizing the importance of finding supportive women's riding groups and welcoming bike shops. We explore how Roam Fest creates an inclusive environment through affinity groups, ranging from parent riders to geologists to sober riders, ensuring everyone finds their community.The discussion delves into the transformation of the mountain biking industry, highlighting the increasing presence of women-owned brands and female representatives. Particularly relevant for ski moms is the parallel between learning to ski and starting mountain biking, with recommendations for coaching organizations like VNTRbirds and All Ride.For those interested in attending Roam Fest, Sam details the logistics of the three-day festival, including camping arrangements, demo bikes, guided rides, and workshops. Roam Fest 2025 will take place September 19-21, 2025 in Fruita, Colorado, sign up here! Keep up with Roam Fest: Website: https://roamfest.com Instagram: @thisisroam YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/roameventsStop by Salem, Woburn, or Framingham, and head to skihaus.com to check store hours and get exact locations. Find your perfect family-friendly mountain stay—or list your own! 👉 Browse or list at Ski Mom Family Rentals Get the best gear recommendations and trip-planning tips directly to your inbox. Head to skimom.substack.com to subscribe. Join for free—or upgrade for all the premium perks. Premium subscriptions start at just $5 a month and get to listen ad-free and unlock exclusive content, including insider travel guides, packing lists and more. Support the showKeep up with the Latest from the Ski Moms!Website: www.theskimoms.coSki Moms Discount Page: https://www.theskimoms.co/discountsSki Moms Ski Rental HomesJoin the 13,000+ Ski Moms Facebook GroupInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/Send us an email and let us know what guests and topics you’d like to hear next! [email protected]@skimomsfun.com