Her Story
About Andree
Andree Sanders is the Owner and Instructor of Bike Whisperer, where for the past 12 years she has focused exclusively on cycling instruction. She teaches clients ranging from beginners to those pursuing racing, with the majority being women and youth, using one-on-one sessions that emphasize personal empowerment, confidence building, and overcoming inner fears about riding. Prior to this, she worked in advertising until the events of 9-11 prompted her to volunteer with and eventually lead Trips for Kids Metro New York as Executive Director since 2006. In that role she developed programs taking over a thousand urban youth mountain biking and created a youth racing team affiliated with NICA. She holds certifications as a league-certified instructor (LCI) and Level 2 instructor with BCIP, and she is a member of the League of American Cyclists and BCIP while having previously served as a NICA coach. Her approach draws from her own experiences and a commitment to providing the supportive teaching she values.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Andree
01What do you attribute your success to?
Giving people what I never received. I was the youngest of five, raised in the South, dyslexic, lost parents young, and by making other people happy it has made me happier. It's a self-fulfilling prophecy to give back the way I would have liked to be taught.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Follow your passion. Go with your gut. Don't let anyone stand in your way, and stand up for yourself. As a woman in a male-dominated world, trust it and it will work out.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Follow your passion and trust your gut. It's very key to really believe in yourself. And the impossible is obtainable. Go for the impossible!
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Marketing is the biggest challenge. When you're a one-woman shop, it's hard to do everything, and I'm not good at marketing or selling myself. I need to trust people who are better at it and ask for help.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty, open-hearted, freethinkers, respect. Respect for whoever regardless of political opinions, have conversations without judgment.
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