Experience the ride of a lifetime with Laura Istead, Executive Director of Two Wheel View, as we pedal through stories of transformation and empowerment. On this episode, we're not just talking about bikes; we're revealing how these two-wheeled machines are unlocking potential and building independence in Calgary's youth. Laura takes us on a tour of the Earn-A-Bike program, an inspiring 10-week course for youth in grades 7-12, culminating in the ultimate prize—a re-furbished bike of their own, complete with the skills to keep it, and themselves, moving forward.

As the conversation shifts gears, we learn about the vital link between bicycles and broader opportunities for teens, such as improving school attendance and job prospects. Laura illuminates the successes of the GAP Employability Program, now in its 13th cohort, and its dedication to equipping young adults with more than just bike skills—think financial literacy, workers' rights, and a road map to adulthood. These programs aren’t just creating cyclists; they’re crafting future leaders and community champions, one spoke at a time.

Wrapping up, our journey with Laura examines the generosity that fuels Two Wheel View, with nearly 1700 donated bikes in 2023 sparking change across Calgary. We also take a peek into the work Laura is doing on the Social Sector Social initiative in efforts to uplift local nonprofits. So pedal with us as we celebrate the power of community, the joy of giving, and the impact of simple machines on complex lives. Join the movement that's more than just a bike ride—it's a ride towards a better future for all.

Key Messages

• Introducing Two Wheel View
• Earn a Bike Program 
• GAP Employability Program
• GAP 2.0 Kicking Off
• Bike Shop Social Enterprise
• Donate a Bike
• Continuing Cycles with Other Non-Profits
• Corporate Team Builds
• Recycling Bikes
• How Laura Got Involved
• Collaborating with Biking Organizations
• Social Sector Social
• How you can Give Amplify Connect with Two Wheel View
• Join our Lifecycle team 
• Who Inspires Laura?

About Our Guest

 Laura Istead is the Executive Director of Two Wheel View. Starting at Two Wheel View as an intern on with a three-month contact, Laura is currently in her 13th year as a member of the Two Wheel View team. During her time with Two Wheel View, she and her team have grown the organization from 3 staff and 12 participants a year to a team of 30 that works with hundreds of youth and thousands of bicycles each year.  

What is Give Amplify Connect?

There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story.

Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com

Podcast music used with artist permission
"Okay" by Ellen Braun