Author: Tim Mooney

February 22, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 354: Space Coast Loop – Part 2

Day 2 of the Space Coast Loop, starts with another early morning, and nearly twice the mileage of the previous day. Riding on the Spring to Spring and East Central Regional Rail Trails promised to be great, along all the Spanish moss and unique wildlife central Florida has to offer. But ah those pesky headwinds coming off the coast I’m trying to reach… will my less-than-robust pre-ride conditioning do me in?

The Pedalshift Project 354: Space Coast Loop - Part 2

Hey it’s the direct download link for The Pedalshift Project 354: Space Coast Loop – Part 2.

Subscribe/Follow The Pedalshift Project:
RSS – iTunes – Overcast – Android – Google Podcasts – Stitcher – TuneIn – IHeartRadio – Spotify

Reach out to the show via email, Twitter and Instagram. Don’t forget to join the newsletter too.

Have some bike touring or overnight stories to share? Send your pics, audio or a quick tweet – all welcome. Email the show at pedalshift@pedalshift.net or call the lightly-used Pedalshift voicemail line at (202) 930-1109

Space Coast Loop – Part 2

Morning start and campsite experience details
Weather conditions and gear choices
Appreciation for campsite amenities and value
Plans for the day’s ride, including terrain and stops
Descriptions of the Spring to Spring Trail and East Central Regional Rail Trail
Interactions with other cyclists and wildlife observations
Food and hydration strategy throughout the day
Physical and mental state reflections
Overall journey reflections, including trail beauty and challenges
Anticipation for future rides and route planning

Evening reflections and campsite experiences

Statistics

Miles biked 51.4
Sugary sodas 2
Shoutouts to Aussies 1 (Matty Freedom!)
Spanish Moss mentions 3
NASA nerdery count 5 or 6?
Sum total of Manatees and Hammocks at Manatee Hammock campground 0
Frustration with wind noise on this tour journal infinity
Flats 0

Trip Overview

As always we like to close out the show with a special shoutout to the Pedalshift Society! Because of support from listeners like you, Pedalshift is a weekly bicycle touring podcast with a global community, expanding into live shows and covering new tours like this summer’s upcoming bike tour! If you like what you hear, you can support the show for 5 bucks, 2 bucks or even a buck a month. And there’s one-shot and annual options if you’re not into the small monthly thing. Check it all out at pedalshift.net/society.

Kimberly Wilson
Caleb Jenkinson
Cameron Lien
Andrew MacGregor
Michael Hart
Keith Nagel
Brock Dittus
Thomas Skadow
Marco Lo
Terrance Manson
Harry Telgadas
Chris Barron
Mark Van Raam
Brad Hipwell
Mr. T
Nathan Poulton
Stephen Dickerson
Vince LoGreco
Cody Floerchinger
Tom Benenati
Greg Braithwaite
Sandy Pizzio
Jeff Muster
Seth Pollack
Joseph Quinn
Drue Porter
Byron Paterson
Joachim Raber
Ray Jackson
Jeff Frey
Kenny Mikey
Lisa Hart
John Denkler
Steve Hankel
Miguel Quinones
Alejandro Avilés-Reyes
Keith Spangler
Greg Towner
Dan Gebhart, RIP
Jody Dzuranin
Lucas Barwick
Michael Baker
Brian Bechtol
Reinhart Bigl
Greg Middlemis
Connie Moore
William Gothmann
Brian Benton
Joan Churchill
Mike Bender
Rick Weinberg
Billy Crafton
Gary Matushak
Greg L’Etoile-Lopes
James Sloan
Jonathan Dillard
John Funk
Tom Bilcze
Ronald Piroli
Dave Roll
Brian Hafner
Misha LeBlanc
Ari Messinger
David Gratke
Todd Groesbeck
Wally Estrella
Sue Reinert
John Leko
Stephen Granata
Phillip Mueller
Robert Lackey
Dominic Carol
Jacqi McCulloch
John Hickman
Carl Presseault
David Neves
Patty Louise
Terry Fitzgerald
Peter Steinmetz
Timothy Fitzpatrick
Michael Liszewski
Hank O’Donnell
David Zanoni
David Weil
Matthew Sponseller
Chad Reno
Spartan Dale
Carolyn Ferguson
Peggy Littlefield
Lauren Allansmith
Eric Burns
Thomas Pearl
Darrin McKibben
Richard Stewart
Dave Fletcher
Jack Smith
Luke Parkinson
Ryan Patterson
Cyrus Farivar
John Gardiner
Sam Scruggs

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

The post The Pedalshift Project 354: Space Coast Loop – Part 2 appeared first on Pedalshift.

February 21, 2024

The Connection

On this episode, we discuss The Connection, Bolder Advocacy’s go-to guide on how to create and operate 501(c)(3)s, 501(c)(4)s, and political organizations. In 2024, we release our 5th edition of The Connection and include several important updates your nonprofit needs to know about as we move into a contentious election season. If your nonprofit has questions about how to safely operate affiliated organizations or how to boost civic engagement in coalition with organizations that have a different tax-exempt status than your own, The Connection has the answers.

Attorneys for this show

Natalie Ossenfort, Sarah Efthymiou, and Susan Finkle-Sourlis

Show Notes

· The Connection is one of Bolder Advocacy’s core advocacy resources.

o It pairs well with:

§ “Being a Player” (guide to lobbying regulations for advocacy charities)

§ “The Rules of the Game” (guide to election-related activities for 501(c)(3)s)

o This is the go-to resource for organizations on how they can amplify their impact and build grassroots power by utilizing multiple types of tax-exempt entities to address social problems and pursue policy change.

o It discusses the best practices you need to know about when working with 501(c)(3)s, 501(c)(4)s, and PACs

o The Connection was first published in 1988 and is primarily authored by Holly Schadler at Trister, Ross, Schadler, and Gold (with contributions from several of her teammates and allies in the field)

o 5th Edition releasing end of February or early March 2024

· What can you find in THE CONNECTION?

o Details on several different types of tax-exempt organizations and the advocacy activities they can engage in

o The rules 501(c)(4)s need to know when lobbying and engaging in political activities

o Information on how to create and operate affiliated c3 and c4 organizations (including a step-by-step overview of c4 formation procedures)

o The rules governing PACs (including state PACs federal PACs and 527s)

o Sample cost sharing agreement, sample 501(c)(3) public charity to 501(c)(4) grant agreement, information on the Lobbying Disclosure Act, and more!

· What’s new in the 5th edition?

o Information on new FEC disclaimer requirements for “internet public communications”

o Social media guidance for affiliated 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations

o Details on a recent FEC ruling impacting the use of disclaimers for text messaging

o Requirements for Super PACs and hybrid PACs (also known as Carey Committees)

· “The Connection” also contains several concrete examples to illustrate how the rules apply in real-world scenarios (utilizing fictional tax-exempt organizations, of course).

o These examples answer questions like:

§ What happens when a 501(c)(3) wants to make a grant to its affiliated 501(c)(4) for an educational research project?

§ What happens when a 501(c)(3) conducts a nonpartisan voter registration drive and wants its affiliated 501(c)(4) to have access to the list of registered voters? You’ll find out in “The Connection” that it can’t just give the list to its affiliated 501(c)(4) at no charge, but it could in some instances (when allowed under state law) sell its list at fair market value via an arms-length transaction.

§ And, what happens when a c4 publishes a monthly magazine on mission-related issues and then, in one edition of the magazine, decides to include an article about its candidate endorsements?

· There are examples of required disclaimers for independent expenditures and electioneering communications too.

o Brand new FEC regulations, published in January of this year, clarify what types of communications fall within the definition of “internet public communications” and what types of disclaimers are required when these communications expressly advocate for the election or defeat of federal candidates.

o The latest edition of “The Connection” addresses how the law requires these disclaimers to be adapted for different communication formats. Whether it’s a communication including text and graphics, a video, or an audio-only statement, disclaimer requirements vary.

o As such, “The Connection” is not only good for frontline nonprofit advocates, but for Communications, HR, and Accounting staff too!

Resources

The Connection (Strategies for Creating and Operating 501(c)(3)s, 501(c)(4)s, and Political Organizations)

Being a Player (A Guide to the IRS Lobbying Regulations for Advocacy Charities)

The Rules of the Game (A Guide to Election-Related Activities for 501(c)(3) Organizations)

February 15, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 353: Space Coast Loop – Part 1

Packing up and getting myself and my trusty Brompton to central Florida is a well-practiced mid-winter routine for me at this point. But this year, we’re mixing it up with a new route and (finally?) some actual camping in the sunshine state. But would the unfamiliar route and lack of decent conditioning through the holidays put the brakes on this adventure before we even start?

The Pedalshift Project 353: Space Coast Loop - Part 1

Hey it’s the direct download link for The Pedalshift Project 352: Space Coast Loop Preview.

Subscribe/Follow The Pedalshift Project:
RSS – iTunes – Overcast – Android – Google Podcasts – Stitcher – TuneIn – IHeartRadio – Spotify

Reach out to the show via email, Twitter and Instagram. Don’t forget to join the newsletter too.

Space Coast Loop – Part 1

Preparation and Packing
Travel to Florida
Arrival and Bike Setup in Winter Garden
Trail Riding Experience
Camping Preparations and Considerations
Mechanical Adjustments and Bike Modifications
Weather and Riding Conditions
Navigation and Trail Experiences
End-of-Day Reflections and Camping Experience

Statistics

Miles flown 862
Miles biked 35.4
Number of 44 stars given 1
Times my phone dropped off my MagSafe bike mount 4
Auto Clubs mentioned 2
Footlongs consumed 1
Flats 0

Trip Overview

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

The post The Pedalshift Project 353: Space Coast Loop – Part 1 appeared first on Pedalshift.

February 8, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 352: Space Coast Loop Preview

The first tour of 2024 is a little bit of an old friend, but with brand new parts. Central Florida in early winter has treated me well, but things need to be shaken up. How about crossing a chunk of the state on a fantastic trail and mixing in some camping for the first time on one of these adventures? On this episode, we preview all of the excitement to come!

The Pedalshift Project 352: Space Coast Loop Preview

Hey it’s the direct download link for The Pedalshift Project 352: Space Coast Loop Preview.

Subscribe/Follow The Pedalshift Project:
RSS – iTunes – Overcast – Android – Google Podcasts – Stitcher – TuneIn – IHeartRadio – Spotify

Reach out to the show via email, Twitter and Instagram. Don’t forget to join the newsletter too.

Space Coast Loop Preview

Trip Overview

Announcement of returning to Florida for the Space Coast Loop

Brief mention of the Brompton setup and intention for a different kind of trip

Trip Details

The loop trip’s basic structure and logistics

Emphasis on Central Florida as the chosen location

Decision to include camping and the planning involved

Discussion about flight logistics and bicycle transportation, focusing on using a Brompton for ease of travel

Gear and Preparation

Explanation of the gear-hauling strategy using a backpack

Mention of potential weather challenges and preparations

Details on packing light and meal planning

Itinerary and Route Planning

Start of the trip from Orlando, moving towards Winter Garden, Florida

Exploration of the Florida Coast to Coast Trail

Details of each day’s ride, including camping locations and daily mileages

Inclusion of a roofed lodging stay and the reasons behind it

Plans for entering Disney World property and the anticipated challenges

Personal Insights and Anticipations

Reflection on the uniqueness of this trip compared to past adventures

Mention of new bicycling setup and excitement for the camping experience

Anticipation for the Florida Coast to Coast trail and potential challenges

Wrap-Up and Look Ahead

Concluding thoughts on the upcoming trip

Plans for future episodes covering the day-to-day experiences of the tour

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

The post The Pedalshift Project 352: Space Coast Loop Preview appeared first on Pedalshift.

February 7, 2024

Grassroots Advocacy

Exploring grassroots advocacy and the various activities that grassroots organizations can use to advance their mission and bring about positive policy change.

Attorneys for this Episode

Monika Graham

Natalie Ossenfort

Victor Rivera

Shownotes

Introduction Issue Advocacy and Lobbying Rallies, Town Halls, and Community Mobilization Persuading Elected Officials Advocacy Days and Lobbying Ballot Measures and Elections Commenting on Candidates and Campaigns Get Out the Vote Campaigns Spotlight: Grassroots Organizations Resources and Conclusion

February 1, 2024

Best of Pedalshift 113: Training for your first bike tour

So it’s your first bike tour and you have no idea where to begin… that’s where the Pedalshift Beginners Series comes in! On this edition, we cover training (especially when you’re off the bike) plus raising funds if your ride has a charitable component! Originally podcast April 12, 2018.

Best of Pedalshift 113:Training for your first bike tour

The post Best of Pedalshift 113: Training for your first bike tour appeared first on Pedalshift.

January 25, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 351: Building an eBike

The big project for 2024 is building the ultimate custom ebike. On this episode we go over the three key components to the build, from picking the perfect frame, the right mid-drive motor and a battery that gives range and power. What’s better than a project that blends tech with cycling?

The Pedalshift Project 351: Building an eBike

Hey it’s the direct download link for The Pedalshift Project 345: eBike Adventures with Biking Brian.

Subscribe/Follow The Pedalshift Project:
RSS – iTunes – Overcast – Android – Google Podcasts – Stitcher – TuneIn – IHeartRadio – Spotify

Reach out to the show via email, Twitter and Instagram. Don’t forget to join the newsletter too.

Building an eBike

The Ebike Build Plan Overview

– Intentions and possibilities for the ebike build, including cost considerations and potential delays.

Inspiration and Goals for the Custom Ebike

– Aim for a custom battery build to cover more ground in less time, inspired by Biking Brian’s rig.

Bicycle Selection Criteria

– Choosing a durable and compatible frame, with considerations for material (steel vs. aluminum) and geometry.

Mid Drive Motor Choice

– The importance of selecting an efficient mid-drive motor, focusing on power output and brand reliability.

Custom Battery Build Exploration

– Options for a custom battery build, prioritizing safety and capacity, and the possibility of a prebuilt battery.

Roadmap and Next Steps for the Ebike Project

– The complex process and interdependencies among bicycle selection, motor choice, and battery build.

Listener Engagement and Feedback

– Encouraging listener experiences and advice on ebike builds.

Programming Note!

– Preview of future episodes, including bike tour previews and training for a first bike tour.

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

The post The Pedalshift Project 351: Building an eBike appeared first on Pedalshift.

January 24, 2024

Nonpartisan Election Year Advocacy

On this episode, we discuss best practices for 501(c)(3) public charities conducting advocacy and nonpartisan activities, like get out the vote or voter education activities during an election year. Election year is upon us and the presidential primaries and caucuses, and primaries for other elected offices are starting to take place and will continue through the November General election.

Attorneys for this show

Monika Graham, Susan Finkle-Sourlis, and Leslie Barnes

Show Notes

· May 501c3 public charities advocate in an election year? How can a public charity be involved in an election?

· Types of nonpartisan activities that a 501(c)(3) may conduct include:

o Educating voters and candidates on the issues that are important to the people/community the organization serves.

o Mobilizing voters and supporting democracy

o Hosting candidate debates and forums

o And much more

· What are the IRS regulations surrounding advocacy and democracy work

o IRS has held that supporting democracy is a charitable activity, 501(c)(3)s have a role to play in our elections!

o Activities must further the organization’s charitable mission

o Activities must remain nonpartisan, cannot support or opposition of candidates running for public office

· The Facts and Circumstances test to determine whether or not communications or activities are nonpartisan.

o The IRS applies a “facts and circumstances” analysis to determine whether a charity’s communication is conducted in a nonpartisan manner or is really a veiled attempt to support or oppose candidates.

o When the IRS says “support or opposition” of candidates, that prohibition is broader than the explicit act of giving money to a campaign or saying outright that you should vote or not vote for a candidate. It’s not a bright line rule.

o Analysis is required across the spectrum of risk. It is an assessment of the risk.

· Discussion of the elements of the Facts and Circumstances Test.

o Does the communication refer to a candidate or election?

o Timing, upcoming election or is there another event outside of the organization that happened?

o Organization is discussing its core issues? Or is it comparing the organization’s issues to a candidate’s position?

o Who are you talking to? Who is the audience? Who are you targeting?

o Do you have a track record of discussing the issue?

o Are you discussing a wedge issue? What is a wedge issue?

** The discussion of this topic is from the view of 501(c)(3) public charities. Other types of nonprofits, like 501(c)(4)s do have the ability to undertake partisan activities as a secondary purpose.

Resources

Rules of the Game – Guide to nonpartisan election related activities for 501(c)(3)s

Comparison of 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) Permissible Activities – Chart

Praising and Criticizing Incumbents – Factsheet

The Connection

January 18, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 350: 2024 Bike Adventure Goals

Just like last year, let’s set some goals for bike adventures in 2024! Studies show you are more likely to achieve your goals if they are specific and measurable, plus you write them down and share them with others. As a nudge to get you to do the same, I’m sharing my goals for bike adventures in 2024 here on the pod!

The Pedalshift Project 350: 2024 Bike Adventure Goals

Hey it’s the direct download link for The Pedalshift Project 350: 2024 Bike Adventure Goals.

Subscribe/Follow The Pedalshift Project:
RSS – iTunes – Overcast – Android – Google Podcasts – Stitcher – TuneIn – IHeartRadio – Spotify

Reach out to the show via email, Twitter and Instagram. Don’t forget to join the newsletter too.

2024 Bike Adventure Goals

1. New Experiences in Bike Travel

Goal Plan at least three bike trips to destinations never visited before, including local hidden gems and longer journeys.

Measurable Aspect Track and document the number of new places visited with photos and a travel journal.

2. Exploring and Enjoying the Trips More

Incorporate Unique Activities or Experiences

Goal Add at least one unique activity or experience to each trip, like local cuisine tasting, community event participation, or historical site exploration.

Measurable Aspect Record and rate each unique experience on a scale of 1-10 for enjoyment.

Plan a Low-Mileage, Slow-Paced Tour

Goal Conduct a bike tour emphasizing slow travel and low daily mileage, focusing on scenery enjoyment and local culture engagement.

Measurable Aspect Implement a daily mileage limit (e.g., no more than 30 miles) to allow for exploration and rest.

Engage with Local Communities

Goal Interact with local communities during tours, including staying at local guesthouses and dining at family-owned restaurants.

Measurable Aspect Document interactions, including names of stays, dining places, and community events.

Document the Journey

Goal Capture the tour’s essence through photography, journaling, or video blogging, focusing on storytelling.

Measurable Aspect Create a travel log or digital album of key moments and stories.

3. Building a New Ebike with Long Range

Battery Capacity and Range

Goal Install a high-capacity battery system for a range of about 120 miles per charge, similar to Biking Brian’s setup.

Measurable Aspect Choose a battery with around 1500Wh capacity.

Motor Efficiency and Power

Goal Select a mid-drive motor that balances efficiency and power, suitable for various terrains and distances.

Measurable Aspect Opt for a mid-drive motor with 250-750 watts power output.

Overall Design for Comfort and Durability

Goal Build a bike focusing on comfort and durability, including a comfortable seat, ergonomic handlebars, and a robust frame.

Measurable Aspects

Frame and Suspension Select a frame that balances weight and strength, with front suspension for terrain comfort.

Seating and Handlebars Ensure high-quality, ergonomic seating and adjustable handlebars.

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

The post The Pedalshift Project 350: 2024 Bike Adventure Goals appeared first on Pedalshift.

January 11, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 349: Filmmaker Interview – We Are All in This Together

We kick off 2024 with an interview with filmmaker Daniel Troia on his award-winning documentary, We Are All in This Together which tracks a cross-country bicycle journey with the hope of gaining a better understanding of the human connection, relying on the kindness of strangers.

The Pedalshift Project 349: Filmmaker Interview - We Are All in This Together

Hey it’s the direct download link for The Pedalshift Project 349: Filmmaker Interview – We Are All in This Together.

Subscribe/Follow The Pedalshift Project:
RSS – iTunes – Overcast – Android – Google Podcasts – Stitcher – TuneIn – IHeartRadio – Spotify

Reach out to the show via email, Twitter and Instagram. Don’t forget to join the newsletter too.

Filmmaker Interview – We Are All in This Together

– Introduction

– The Documentary

– Social Issues and Cycling

– Route and Experiences

– Previous Cycling Adventures

– Dumpster Diving and Food Waste

– Encounters and Human Connection

– Bicycling Mechanics and Gear

– Reflections on Social Division in the U.S.

– Closing and Additional Information

Links and Resources

https://www.weareallinthistogethermovie.com

Daniel’s YouTube: The Travelin Dude

Daniel’s Instagram: @the_travelin_dude

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

The post The Pedalshift Project 349: Filmmaker Interview – We Are All in This Together appeared first on Pedalshift.