Backroads: Tom Hale. How a desk worker became a trailblazer in active travel

In this episode of 'How I Built This,' host Guy Raz interviews Tom Hale, the founder of Backroads, a prominent bike touring company. Hale shares the story of how a spontaneous decision led him to leave his stable job in environmental planning to pursue an idea he had for leading bike tours. Initially launched with no experience, investment, or a clear business plan, his first trip in 1979 attracted just four participants and required Hale to work multiple jobs to keep afloat.

As Hale recounts his early experiences, he emphasizes the significant challenges he faced, including logistical hurdles, theft of bikes, and navigating the complexities of running a seasonal business without capital. Through dedication and trial and error, he learned crucial lessons about marketing, customer service, and adapting the business model over the years.

He discusses how Backroads shifted from camping trips to more comfortable hotel-based tours, which significantly enhanced the customer experience. Moreover, the company expanded into international territories like Hawaii and New Zealand, requiring innovative logistics solutions. Success was not immediate; Hale emphasizes the importance of word-of-mouth and repeat customers, which have been vital to the company's growth. Despite several economic downturns, including the challenges presented by 9/11 and the global pandemic, Hale remained optimistic and focused on improving the company's services,

Ultimately, he credits both hard work and a bit of luck for his success. Backroads has grown from a one-man operation to one of the largest active travel companies, operating over 5,000 tours per year worldwide, and continues to adapt to changing traveler preferences, including the recent introduction of e-bike options.