Ten years ago, when you needed a ride across town or to the airport, you might have called a taxi. Now, you’re more likely to open an app on your phone.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have been growing at breakneck speed.

But the fast growth — and increased focus on profits — has changed the experience for some drivers and riders. It’s also prompted some states, including Minnesota, to pass minimum wage guarantees for drivers.

MPR News host Angela Davis talks with her guests about how rideshare works and how it’s changing.

Guests: 

• Sergio Avedian is senior contributor for The Rideshare Guy, a driver advocacy blog and YouTube channel. He drives for multiple ridesharing and food delivery services in Los Angeles.
• Said Mohamed has been a rideshare driver for nine years and is a former taxi driver. Since moving to the Twin Cities from southern California three years ago, he’s driven over 11,000 rides. He’s also an organizer for SEIU Local 26, a union that wants to represent rideshare drivers.

This week, we’re sharing an episode of a show we think you’ll enjoy: “Worth It” from the Minnesota Star Tribune and Lemonada Media.

We’ve got the inside scoop on why the Guthrie’s “Cabaret” is getting rave reviews. Also, as “The Great Gatsby” turns 100, why is this novel with Minnesota roots worth another read?

Plus, we’ll tell you about the Culinary North Stars that are pushing the boundaries of the Twin Cities’ dining scene.

Read more about the Culinary North Stars, Gatsby’s centennial, Gatsby remixes and the Guthrie’s production of “Cabaret”.

This week our guests are taste editor Nicole Hvidsten, general assignment reporter Zoë Jackson, interim books editor Chris Hewitt, theater critic Rohan Preston and digital food and culture producer Abby Sliva.

To support “Worth It” and the important work of the Minnesota Star Tribune, subscribe today by visiting Startribune.com/WorthItToSubscribe.

Stay up to date with the Minnesota Star Tribune at @startribune on TikTok, Bluesky, X, Facebook, and Instagram. Lemonada Media is on X, Facebook and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia.

When we think about what makes a strong community, it often comes down to one thing — people showing up for each other.

Across Minnesota, thousands of volunteers are showing up every day — to stock food shelves, tutor students, plant community gardens, organize donation drives and more.

And the way we serve is changing.

Today, it’s easier than ever to sign up for one-time events, find projects that line up with your skills or passions and even volunteer virtually from your computer.

MPR News host Angela Davis and her guests talk about why volunteering matters, how it strengthens communities and how you can find opportunities that fit your interests and schedule.

Guests:

• Niila Herbert is the executive director of the Minnesota Alliance for Volunteer Advancement.
• Melissa Wilson is the senior director of engagement at Greater Twin Cities United Way. She leads the United Way’s Volunteer United program, which promotes volunteer opportunities and events.