Dear Dean Magazine: September 2023

NEW!
ON SALE
NOW
Sometimes, when you’re at a crossroads, a door will open and what enters will inspire you. Other
times, what enters will make you gag. These stories by a ride-share short-timer might have the
same effect on you. A man, recently laid off from his job and intrigued by the people he might
meet (and the money he might make) decides to drive ride-share while looking for a new
professional management position.
Don’t want to drive drunk? Well, then, by all means, plug in your location and get your friendly
neighborhood ride-share driver to ferry you to your next bar. Need to move but can’t afford
movers? There’s an App for that! Tired of waiting for tricks on the corner? Wait—I’ve got an idea. .
.
The behavior and stories of folks who call on ride-share turned into a unique anthropological
study for one man who decided to drive ride-share while looking for a new professional
management position. Recently laid off from his job and intrigued by the people he might meet
(and the money he might make), the author unwittingly became the anonymous confidant for
men, women, nonbinary people, and children. Unfortunately for him, he also became the innocent
target of people who couldn’t hold their liquor, others who couldn’t hold their temper, and at
least one who couldn’t keep his hands to himself.
Little did they know they were in the Prius of a writer, who would be able to look in the rear view
and tell their stories.
This collection of anecdotes is non-judgmental, full of irony and dry humor, and may help
someone else decide: Is driving ride-share for you?
DEAR DEAN MAGAZINE | August 2023 | p.38