Episode Summary:Ever wondered what it really takes to turn a grassroots composting hustle into a thriving, worker-owned enterprise? This conversation with Michael Robinson, co-founder of Rust Belt Riders, takes us inside that transformative journey.Michael and I talk about how Rust Belt Riders evolved from an idea rooted in community gardens and philosophical values into a formal worker cooperative. We unpack how financial transparency, shared decision-making, and open dialogue have powered their growth, and how the team continues to navigate complex conversations around pay equity, governance, and scaling workplace democracy. This episode is full of practical wisdom for any founder considering a co-op model or looking to deepen employee engagement.Key Takeaways:Why Rust Belt Riders started with a cooperative mindset from day oneThe long road from LLC to formal worker cooperativeLessons in financial transparency and open-book managementNavigating pay structures and consensus-based decision-makingThe role of trust, compassion, and unlearning in cooperative successUsing tech like Lumio to streamline collective decisionsThe cultural shift from "pretending to be a co-op" to truly being oneAbout Michael RobinsonMichael is the co-founder of Rust Belt Riders and serves as treasurer on the board of Cleveland Owns. With a background in philosophy and a passion for social and political equity, Michael brings a grounded, values-driven approach to cooperative leadership and community wealth building.Connect with Michael RobinsonWebsite: www.rustbeltriders.comTilth Soil: www.tilthsoil.comCleveland Owns: www.clevelandowns.coopLinkedIn: Michael RobinsonConnect with Andy Farquharson:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfarquharson/  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andyfarq   Website - https://abettermonday.me/   Email - [email protected]   

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