RSG110: The Black Car Babe on Driving Rideshare in New York City

Recently, we launched a new podcast called The Rideshare Dojo with Jay Cradeur. In this episode, I’ll be highlighting a new episode he just released with The Black Car Babe. This is a really unique episode not simply because the guest is a female driver, but also because we get to hear the perspective of a driver driving in New York City. NYC is a pretty unique market compared to every other city, so I hope you find this episode interesting and let us know in the comments below.

If you’d like to read a transcript of this podcast, please click here.

Intro

  • Today I’ll be chatting with Minna Palaquibay, also known as the Black Car Babe in NYC
  • We’ll be talking about driving in NYC, the best and worst parts of driving in NYC, and how to maintain your energy as a driver
  • This episode is sponsored by Fair – if you’re looking for a car rental program that includes everything, including insurance and miles, you’ll want to check out Fair. Use code ‘RSG’ to get $100 off.

Intro to The Black Car Babe

  • Minna Palaquibay, aka The Black Car Babe, drives in NYC
  • Drove for Via and Uber, now drives for a luxury company
  • Drove for Via first, enjoyed it, drove for about 10-12 hours a day
  • Currently drives a Chevy Suburban LTZ (2016)

Driving in Manhattan

  • Started driving in Manhattan because she wanted to control her time and be her own boss
  • Opportunity came along to drive the suburban, decided to go for it
  • Best part has been the conversations, talking to people
  • Long hours are the worst part – have to meet a quota to cover bills, can be tiring

Rideshare Driving as a Woman

  • Anyone should set aside some money for emergencies – at least $1000
  • Don’t take things personally as a driver – there is more positive than negative out there
  • Other drivers (male) aren’t rude to her – clashes have been few and far between
  • Minna doesn’t drive that late at night, so she hasn’t been hit on (less chance because most people are not drunk during the day)

How to Keep Up Your Energy as a Driver

  • Has changed up her diet, taking supplements
  • Tries to eat healthier (instead of a burger, get a salad or at least balance burger with a salad)
  • Typical day starts at 4 am, ends around midnight – breaks in between

Goals for the Future

  • Pay off debt!
  • Would love to do a TED Talk
  • Create an online course to help inspire people
  • Would like to write a book

Outro

  • Thanks to Minna for coming on the podcast! My main takeaway is being generous with your time and learning from other people
  • Minna shared what she’s gone through and still has a positive attitude – make sure to follow her YouTube channel!

If you’d like to read a transcript of this podcast, please click here.