We had the good fortune of connecting with Catherine Neff and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Catherine, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The thought process for both teaching piano lessons under Neff Piano Studio and coaching mountain bike skills under Ride Inspired Mountain Bike Coaching is actually very much the same- be inclusive, calm, understanding, and flexible with the approach. For piano, I wanted to be able to offer lesson in an accessible and inclusive manor and I achieve this by traveling to my students homes and keeping my lesson low pressure. Majority of my students don’t want to pursue music in college, they play for their own enjoyment. I teach in a way that students progress in their own way, on their terms. I meet them where they are each week.
Coaching mountain bike skills is pretty much the same. Working with individuals where they are in their own riding journey and develop skills on their level.

Gentle encouragement, kindness, openness, and understanding has been key to success in both areas.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I think what sets me apart from others is my ability to meet people where they are, be inclusive, non judgmental, understanding, and the ability to keep things fun!

I’m most excited about seeing how both businesses will continue to grow and adapt as the needs change.

I got to where I am professionally by working hard, keeping an open mind, learning, and constantly researching different ways to teach effectively. It wasn’t easy, but it also wasn’t really difficult.

One of the biggest lessons I learned along the way was that it’s ok to say “no” and to ask for help with things!

I want the world to know that both in teaching piano and mountain bike coaching I will continue to strive to be inclusive, open, and the best instructor I know how to be.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There are so many cool places around here to see! Cuyahoga Valley National Park has some amazing trails and sights. We’re also close to Lake Erie, quite a few farmers markets with local items. We have multiple mountain bike trails within a 45 minute drive, we also have sports venues and professional theatre venues. Restaurant wise, we have soooo many different options depending on what kind of food is desired.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many individuals that have helped me get to where I am in both areas! Piano:
Kim Bakkum, Valerie Thorson, Dr. Amy Petrongelli, and Dr. Samuel Gordon. These 4 individuals shaped me into the musician and teacher I am today.

Mountain Bike:
Angi Weston, Shaums March, Kelly Hazlegrove, and Travis Brown. Their mentoring gave me confidence in my abilities, my teaching, and they are amazing examples of some of the best coaches!

Website: www.rideinspiredmtb.com

Instagram: Ride Inspired Mountain Bike Coaching

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-neff-25282960?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Facebook: Ride Inspired Mountain Bike Coaching

Other: Piano- email [email protected]

Image Credits
Timothy Neff Megan Harrison

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