Bold, Fearless, and Inspiring: Iris Slappendel's Journey from Professional Cyclist to Designer and Advocate

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Originally published in August 2024

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In the latest episode of the Ride To Success podcast, former professional cyclist Iris Slappendel shared the inspiration and vision behind her innovative cycling apparel brand, I R I S – I Ride In Style.

Iris's journey into the design world began during her teenage years when she started creating her clothes out of personal necessity and passion. However, her dissatisfaction with existing women’s cycling gear motivated her to launch her brand after retiring in 2016. "I wanted to make something that I wanted to wear," she explained, emphasizing her desire to create high-quality, stylish, and comfortable apparel that was missing from the market.

One of the standout aspects of I R I S is its bold and colourful design philosophy. Iris draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including art, fashion, and her travels. "Colors are a thread in all my designs," she mentioned, highlighting her preference for starting with a specific colour palette. This approach ensures that each piece is functional and reflects her vibrant personality and the diverse identities of women worldwide. Her commitment to authenticity and personal expression shines through in every collection, making I R I S a brand that encourages women to embrace their individuality on the bike.

I'm Creating an inclusive space for women to ride and be respected and valued.

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Looking Ahead: How Cassondra Spring and Liv Cycling Are Shaping Women's Cycling

Cassondra's vision for the future of Liv Cycling and women's cycling is ambitious and inspiring. She envisions a more inclusive future where cyclists of all backgrounds feel welcomed and supported. Liv Cycling's grassroots programs, ambassador initiatives, and high-profile partnerships like the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift are all steps towards this goal.

Cassondra Spring's leadership at Liv Cycling is a testament to the power of passion, community, and strategic vision. Her work is shaping a more inclusive and supportive future for women's cycling, one pedal stroke at a time.

As the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift continues to grow in prominence, the world will see the extraordinary impact of Liv Cycling's mission and Cassondra's dedication.

Creating an Inclusive Community

Cassondra's personal passion for cycling is deeply intertwined with Liv Cycling's mission to welcome more women and girls into the sport. "I believe that anybody that wants to bike belongs," she stated. Her journey into cycling began in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, where she found a supportive community through local races. This sense of belonging and support has driven her to create similar opportunities for others through Liv Cycling.

As a leader, Cassondra practices strengths-based and servant leadership, focusing on empowering her team and clearing paths for their visibility. She is also an active mentor, participating in programs like Uplift and the Futurist Project. Cassondra believes in the power of mentorship to overcome mentees' challenges like imposter syndrome and to support women in achieving their highest potential.

Liv Cycling fosters a supportive community by partnering with local ambassadors worldwide. These ambassadors organize clinics, rides, and events to engage women at all skill levels. Whether it's gravel riding in Poland or building cycling communities in China, Liv's global ambassador program ensures that women everywhere feel welcomed and supported in their cycling journeys.

Cassondra's approach to building partnerships within the cycling industry is intentional and strategic. She emphasized the importance of working with community catalysts like Ayesha McGowan, member of the Black Foxes, who advocates for more people of color and women of color in the sport. By supporting these champions, Liv Cycling amplifies their impact and drives meaningful change.

Social Links to Ride to Success:

Follow Pedro Couto Lopes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-couto-lopes/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ridetosuccess/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridetosuccess/

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Thanks for listening

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The driving force behind Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift

Kate Veronneau's role in championing women's cycling

In a conversation with Pedro Couto Lopes in the Ride To Success podcast, Kate shares her journey from collegiate basketball to competitive cycling and her vision for the future of women's cycling.

Zwift's Role in Championing Women's Cycling

Under her guidance, Zwift sponsors premier events like the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift and Paris-Roubaix Femmes, significantly elevating women's cycling on the global stage. These partnerships increase visibility and underscore the importance of brand investment in the growth of women's cycling. Veronneau believes that sustained investment and media coverage are crucial for advancing gender parity in the sport.

"The races themselves have been absolutely incredible. Like just, you know, nail biting, so exciting, new breakout performances, heroic stages, everything that you'd want at Paris -Roubaix and at Tour de France, we're seeing on the women's side. And, you know, for those of us that have been long time fans of women's cycling, we've known it's there. The characters, the action, the talent. Those breakout performances, but nobody was able to see it."

From the rise in e-sports to the growing demand for more inclusive cycling communities, Veronneau's work is shaping the future of the sport. She emphasizes the power of technology in creating safe and accessible spaces for women cyclists and urges the cycling industry to embrace diversity and innovation.

"It starts with investment. It really does. Because with that investment comes more visibility, which comes with higher valuation, which then attracts more investment. So I think that's what's really going to unlock opportunities for women cyclists to get into the sport and for women to pursue their dreams of becoming pros."

Social Links to Ride to Success:

Follow Pedro Couto Lopes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-couto-lopes/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ridetosuccess/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridetosuccess/

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