Episode Summary
In today's episode, Victoria Emslie speaks with P.L. and Kristen Meindertsma, a dynamic couple who are using their passion for sports, education, and business to effect positive change and help those in need. They are parents, professionals, athletes, and the creators of Cycle 5 to Survive, an initiative that arose from their love of cycling and desire for purpose and fulfillment.
The discussion primarily focuses on the challenges they will face in completing five major cycling expeditions across five continents in five years to raise $500,000 for five distinct charities. Their story is not only inspiring but also showcases their admirable ambitions and steadfast dedication to making a difference. Furthermore, they describe their unique approach to collaborating with each charity partner to optimize the impact of their efforts.
Episode Featured on:
The Wealth Exchange
The Wealth Exchange podcast provides insight, innovation, and access to the experts on a wide range of topics affecting affluent families across Canada. Join our team of hosts as they sit down with leaders and changemakers from around the globe to discuss investing, leadership, philanthropy, entrepreneurship, and more.
Guest Bios
Kristen & P.L. Meindertsma, Co-Founders, Cycle 5 to Survive
P.L. and his wife Kristen combined their love of cycling with a desire to help those less fortunate by creating ‘Cycle 5 to Survive’ (C5TS). They set out to use their Time, Talent, and Treasures to raise money and awareness for charities so they can fulfill their purposes of creating cycles of opportunity for the less fortunate through sports, education, or business.
This purpose is based on their diverse skill sets: Kristen brings education to the table, while P.L.’s background in business drives them forward with a focus on success. And they wouldn’t have met if it weren’t for sports. Each charity they have chosen to support falls within one of these three key areas.
Their idea wasn’t born as a fleeting thought; instead, it emerged from a desire for P.L. wanting to find more meaning in life, and by the mutual celebration of his 50th birthday and Kristen’s 55th birthday in 2022.
Using the number ‘5’ – representative of their ages, they are setting out on an incredible journey: they are pledged to traverse five continents on bicycles over the next five years while partnering with five different charities along the way in the hopes of raising $500,000 for each charity. What began as a dream evolved into reality through C5TS—a reality that is helping make positive changes in the world.
About the Host - Victoria Emslie
Victoria Emslie is Senior Manager, Corporate Relations at Nicola Wealth. As a primary link between Nicola Wealth and our communities, Victoria cultivates a comprehensive approach to the advancement of the firm’s priorities and promotes Nicola Wealth’s reputation as a trusted wealth counsel firm and top employer.
View her full bio here: https://nicolawealth.com/our-team/victoria-emslie/
