The Hustle
Years in Tampa Bay
7
Hustle (job)
Manager.
What do you do?
I manage the booking, assist our patrons, oversee the staff, take tours and tend to the everyday workings of our three bikes. My main job is to facilitate everyone having a fun and safe time with us when they ride.
Why do you do it?
I am a people person and love going to a job where I can help people forget about their problems and make memories they will never forget.
What was your Catalyst? (How did you get started?)
The owner, home beer-brewer and enthusiast Eric Olson, brought these cool Dutch-made bikes over to the US 12 years ago in Minneapolis and then chose St. Pete as an expansion because of the fun vibe, fantastic weather and array of growing breweries.
What’s a common misconception or unknown aspect of what you do?
A common misconception is that we promote irresponsible drinking. We truly just want to give everyone a good time and a venue to have fun exploring our city with friends. Our patrons are very responsible and most everyone Ubers or uses Lyft nowadays. Along with providing a pilot to guide the tour, we also keep our tours at two hours and give them enough exercise that they can’t get too intoxicated.
What’s the most challenging part of your Hustle?
Staffing. Most of our pilots are part-time with other full-time jobs, so I like to give them flexibility with their schedule and time off when they need it. Some weekends I have two pilots who want to work and other weekends I might have seven. Luckily when I am short-staffed, I can fill in and have a lot of fun!
What’s the most valuable piece of business advice/insight that’s helped you?
I always tell my staff that the most important thing is to be sincere. People can tell when you genuinely care about them having a good time, and that is why we excel at what we do.
