When we talk about barriers to entry and bike packing, so many things come to mind. For many, it's gear. For others, it's about confidence. For many folks, especially women and marginalized genders, it can be about not knowing where to start, not seeing people like you doing the thing and feeling like maybe this world wasn't built with you and mine.

On Detours we talk a lot about getting more women into bike packing, but how do we actually do that? What does it take? What does it really take to make someone feel like they belong? Roll Models is one answer.

It's a mentorship program started by Athlyn and her co-creator, Cordelia in Bristol UK that pairs women in marginalized genders with more experienced riders. The idea is simple: a mentor and mentee relationship. So folks have someone to ride with, ask questions to, and learn from someone in your corner, which can make all the difference when you're finding your footing in the world of bike packing.

In this episode we talk about:

• How Athlyn’s own road into bikepacking: starting on a single-speed bike with a yoga mat strapped to the back rack
• The inspiration she found in a mentorship program in British Columbia
• How Roll Models was built and how it works
• The surprising barriers mentors face, not just mentees
• How we can truly create a welcoming environment in the world of bikepacking
• And her big goal for the year: taking on the Highland Trail 550, her first bikepacking race

As always, thanks to Albion Cycling for supporting the podcast this year.

Follow Athlyn on Instagram: @athlynck

Follow Roll Models on Instagram: @__rollmodels

Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebb

Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourspodcast

Follow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

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