Life & Work with Roberto Valderrama

Today we’d like to introduce you to Roberto Valderrama.

Hi Roberto, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Ride Boundless Podcast & Ride Clean: A Journey of Passion and Innovation

The story of Ride Boundless and Ride Clean intertwines my love for motorcycles, a gap in the market, and an unyielding spirit to overcome challenges.

Ride Boundless Podcast: Beyond Boundaries
Ride Boundless began as more than just a podcast; it was a quest to explore the uncharted territories of motorcycling and life. With over 128 episodes and recognition as a top 5% globally shared podcast, it’s clear that we tapped into something special. Each episode is a testament to the adventurous spirit, whether I’m interviewing actors, comedians, influencers, entrepreneurs, or detectives.

The podcast’s name, “Ride Boundless,” was born from a literal and metaphorical journey. In the early days, I didn’t have a studio. I would pack my gear into a Pelican case, load it onto my motorcycle, and ride boundlessly to wherever the next story would take me. Now, 120+ episodes later, I have a studio in Studio City, but the essence remains the same – riding towards stories that need to be told.

Ride Clean: A Solution Born on the Road
Ride Clean’s inception traces back to my days at Harley Davidson, where a recurring question from clients sparked an idea. They often asked, “What’s the easiest way to keep my bike clean?” This led to the creation of Ride Clean, a waterless, all-in-one cleaning solution. It’s environmentally friendly, made and distributed solely in America, and ensures a mirror-like finish with a simple shake, spray, and wipe.

Before the pandemic, I traveled across the country, showcasing Ride Clean at expos, where it consistently sold out. However, when COVID-19 halted these expos, I adapted by leveraging the Ride Boundless podcast. Here, Ride Clean became a primary sponsor, seamlessly integrating into the narrative of each episode.

I was born in Los Angeles. My parents came from Cuba. I never met my father, I went to PEPPERDINE for my PKE MBA. I’ve traveled the world been to places like China, Dubai Armenia, Russia, Colombia, Cuba, Spain, Italy, France to name a few I’ve been riding motorcycles for over 20+ years. I have two beautiful boys.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Ride Boundless & Ride Clean: A Road of Challenges and Triumphs

The journey with Ride Boundless and Ride Clean has been anything but smooth, yet it’s the rough patches that have truly defined our spirit and resilience.

Ride Clean: Navigating Post-Covid Challenges
Initially, Ride Clean was a straightforward venture. I traveled from city to city, state to state, setting up booths and connecting directly with our customers. This face-to-face interaction was not just about sales; it was about building relationships. However, when the pandemic hit, this dynamic changed drastically. The flow of driving across the country, setting up shop, and interacting with the community was disrupted, presenting a significant challenge.

The post-Covid era felt like hitting a reset button. The process of getting back into the rhythm of sales and expos was daunting. It wasn’t until I pivoted to online marketing that things began to turn around. This shift was a game-changer, breathing new life into Ride Clean’s sales and outreach.

Ride Boundless Podcast: Embracing the Process
The podcast, on the other hand, has been a labor of love with its own set of challenges. Each episode is a journey in itself, from reaching out to guests and coordinating schedules to setting up gear and ensuring everything is recorded properly. It’s a meticulous process, but one that I absolutely cherish.

The moment I put on those headphones, the world fades away, and I’m in the zone, engaging in these hyper-focused conversations with my guests. It’s an exhilarating experience, but the work doesn’t end there. Post-production involves downloading files, syncing audio and video, editing, coloring, and then managing the online presence, from uploads to social media engagement.

Now, with a dedicated team coming together, this intricate process is becoming more streamlined. Each step, no matter how challenging, is a part of a journey I love. The struggles along the way have not only been learning experiences but have also made every success that much more rewarding.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Ride Boundless: A Unique Blend of Creativity and Community Engagement

As the host of Ride Boundless, I’m not just a voice behind the mic; I’m a storyteller, a creator, and a community influencer. My work spans various aspects of the motorcycling and automotive world, resonating deeply with those who discover it.

Mastering the Art of Short-Form Content
One of my key specialties is creating captivating short-form videos. Whether it’s about cars, motorcycles, or even day-in-the-life experiences on two wheels, these 60-second clips pack a whole day’s story into a minute. They’re fast-paced and engaging and offer a unique perspective on the lifestyle around motorcycles and cars. This ability to distill a narrative into a brief yet impactful format has set me apart in the digital space.

Top-Notch Podcast Production
Ride Boundless, the podcast stands out for its exceptional production quality. Each episode is crafted with care, ensuring that listeners are not just informed but thoroughly entertained. This attention to detail in production has garnered a dedicated following. Those who find the show become instant fans, appreciating the depth and quality of the content.

Community Engagement and Documentary Work
Another aspect of my work that fills me with pride is my involvement in community projects. A recent highlight was creating a video for the Boys and Girls Club of Los Angeles. Documenting their Christmas event, where hundreds of families received presents and showcasing the volunteers’ efforts, was not just a project—it was a heartwarming experience that underscored the spirit of community and giving back.

Ride Clean: A Unique Product in the Market
Lastly, Ride Clean stands as a testament to innovation and environmental consciousness in the automotive care industry. Its uniqueness lies in being an effective, waterless cleaning solution that is easy to use, environmentally friendly, and proudly made and distributed in America.

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
In the next 5 to 10 years, I envision a bright and expansive future for Ride Boundless. The journey so far has been exhilarating, featuring an array of remarkable guests – from celebrities to detectives and even the person behind replicating the 1996 $100 counterfeit bill. The diversity and caliber of these guests have been a cornerstone of the podcast’s success, and looking forward, the ambition only grows.

Ride Boundless Podcast: Expanding Horizons
The podcast is set to scale new heights. On the horizon are names that resonate with excellence and charisma – envisioning guests like Tom Cruise, Keanu Reeves, Jason Momoa, Jay Leno, Kevin Hart, and The Rock, alongside influential political figures and singers. The goal is not just to grow in terms of audience size but to deepen the impact and range of conversations. The plan is to make Ride Boundless a household name in podcasting, synonymous with captivating stories and insightful dialogues that span a broad spectrum of experiences and perspectives.

Ride Clean: Setting New Benchmarks
For Ride Clean, the vision is clear – to establish it as the premier all-purpose cleaner in the motorcycle and car industry. Its unique formulation, which includes Carnauba wax, not only makes it highly effective but also gives it a distinctive edge in the market. The positive feedback from thousands of bottles sold lays a strong foundation for this ambition. The next step involves scaling up, possibly partnering with a major investor or a celebrity figure to amplify the brand’s reach and recognition. The aim is to position Ride Clean as a top choice globally, known for its quality, effectiveness, and environmental friendliness.

Embracing the Future with Excitement
The next 5 to 10 years are poised to be a period of significant growth and evolution for both Ride Boundless and Ride Clean. With a focus on expanding the podcast’s reach and guest list, coupled with strategic growth and partnerships for Ride Clean, the future holds immense potential. The excitement for what’s to come is palpable, and the journey ahead promises to be as fulfilling as it is challenging.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.rideboundless.net
• Instagram: @rideboundless
• Facebook: @rideboundless
• Youtube: @rideboundless

Image Credits
Jaime Fernandez – In the Picture i’m wearing a white shirt Jon Cossentine the two pictures I’m on the bike riding Mullholand