Explore every episode of the podcast The Evolving Adventure
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| E193: Jessica McBride: Which Parts Of You Belong To Someone Else? | 31 Aug 2026 | 00:54:47 | |
Thanks for listening today, friends! Today we've got an inspirational episode with Jessica McBride on Motherhood, Belief & Becoming a Team Canada Ultrarunner. The core question we explore-what happens when you stop letting other people decide who you’re allowed to become? Jessica was once the kid whose gym teacher made fun of the way she ran. Years later, after three kids, a huge identity shift, and one very important question later, she started running anyway. That question? Which things I believe about myself are actually someone else’s property? We all know that moderation is overrated, so naturally, her first race was a marathon. Then came a 50-miler. Which landed her on the podium. Then a DNF that actually helped her understand what kind of runner she was. Then baby #4, the very real fear that her best athletic years might already be behind her… …and eventually, Team Canada. 🇨🇦 And in 2026, a Canadian record. Jessica’s story is about running, but it’s really about identity, motherhood, ambition, self-belief, and the stories we inherit about what we’re supposedly capable of. We talk about the price of chasing big goals, why success doesn’t magically erase self-doubt, the strange grief that can come after achieving the dream, and one question she asked that stopped me: “What gym teacher am I becoming in my kids’ heads?” For the woman who thinks she’s too old, too late, too busy, too much of a mom, or simply not built for the thing she wants? Jessica has something to say to you. ❤️ 🎧 Jessica McBride is episode 193 on The Evolving Adventure Podcast. Find us anywhere you find podcasts, and on YouTube. Find Jessica at @thingsthatgoruninthenight and follow @dm.running.team. And for real… if your first ever race is a marathon, I feel like we’re allowed to question your decision-making from the beginning... says the guy whose first trail race was DNFing a 100 miler. #WomenWhoRun #WomensRunning #UltraRunning #RunningCommunity #WomenInSport | |||
| E192: My Dream Life is currently in Beta | 25 Aug 2026 | 00:52:04 | |
Thanks for listening today, friends! So... I sat down to record a 20–30 minute episode about creating a dream life. Fifty-two minutes later… apparently I had thoughts. 😂 This isn't a polished “five steps to manifest everything you want” episode. I am recording this while the housing feature is still being developed, income is being intermittent, and the American Southwest has yet to send me a move-in date. But the dream is getting clearer. In today's solo episode, I talk about: ✨ Why money and opportunities started showing up when I stopped trying to impress people and started being honest There are also dream-home amenities, impromptu tangents, and considerably more vulnerability than originally scheduled. You're welcome. My dream life is not finished. But it is becoming more specific—and I am learning that we do not have to arrive before we begin building it. What does an ordinary Tuesday look like in your dream life? | |||
| E191: I asked for a sign... and got an 8 hour drive. | 18 Aug 2026 | 00:35:25 | |
So it's been an adventure lately, friends, and one that's ever evolving. Phew, has it been a ride. I asked the universe for a sign. It gave me a cancelled course, an eight-hour drive, sideways sleet, and a five-day logistics contract at the Divide 200. 😂 So… not exactly the glittering manifestation portal I had pictured. In today’s solo episode, I’m sharing what really happened: lots of driving, long gaps between runners, filming in the rain, helping at aid stations, protecting snacks from bears, making one very weird 360 video, making a better one, and losing a lens cover somewhere in the mountains. I had hoped the race might lead to exciting collaborations or an obvious next opportunity. It hasn't... yet. But it did give me experience, information, a few good lessons, and proof that the first attempt can be weird without being the final attempt. This one is about the Magic Dark—that uncomfortable middle where you believe things are moving, even though nothing has arrived with a tracking number yet. The race didn’t solve my life. It wasn’t pointless either. Sometimes the experience is the next step. | |||
| E190: Nine Miles in Crocs and 37 Open Tabs | 20 Jul 2026 | 00:33:55 | |
Apparently, my identity change has a dress code: tie-dyed Crocs. I wore them for the final nine miles of a 100-mile race after my shoes, legs, and better judgment had all filed separate complaints. Funny story? Absolutely. A motivational “never quit” lesson? Nope. I’m proud I finished Jackpot Ultras, but I neglected the strength, mobility, and yoga that help keep me healthy. My body gave me information I did not want, and I kept walking anyway. Sometimes stubbornness looks like resilience... and sometimes it is simply stubbornness with a buckle waiting at the end. What happened afterward was interesting: Recovery meant months of biking instead of running. Running is where I process life, so I did not just lose training... I lost one of the places where I feel calm, confident, and most like myself. Then I quit my job. Career change. Identity change. No fixed location. No neat long-term plan. Just me, recording from my truck while my brain operates like a browser with 37 open tabs and mystery music playing somewhere. In this solo episode of The Evolving Adventurer Podcast, I share four questions helping me through this life transition: What role changed? What story am I attaching to it? What small piece of evidence can I create this week? Who can support me without taking over? That last one is still a work in progress. Guess what? I am, too. Unfinished is not the same thing as imaginary. Discomfort is not automatic proof that you should push harder. It may mean practice, prepare, pause, ask for help, or change direction. The episode is live right now. This is what is happening right now in my life. Follow for the unfinished chapters—not just the polished stories told five years later after . What role has changed for you, and what are you practicing now? #TheEvolvingAdventurer #LifeTransition #IdentityChange #InjuryRecovery #Ultrarunning | |||
| E189: 30-Tirement, Travel Tales & Mexican Surf Magic with Amber Walker | 13 Jul 2026 | 01:09:45 | |
This week on The Evolving Adventure, I’m joined by Amber Walker — adventurer, surfer, author, holistic wellness practitioner, and my first international guest! Amber joins from Punta de Mita, Mexico, where she can literally see two surf breaks from her recording spot. We talk about growing up in Anchorage, Alaska, competitive swimming, qualifying for Boston, inventing her own “30-tirement,” selling her stuff, buying a one-way ticket to Australia, running around New Zealand, surviving a crazy incident in Indonesia, and eventually finding her way into a completely different rhythm of life in Mexico. This episode is full of the kind of stories that make you want to pack a bag, trust your gut, and maybe rethink the whole “I’ll live later” plan. Amber shares how solo travel helped her grow, why learning even a few words of the local language matters, what it means to enter a culture with respect, and how surfing became a form of floating meditation after years of pushing, training, and living in a state of hypervigilance. We also get into dance, play, intuition, chronic illness, faith, Peru, Barbados, wild birthday challenges, trail running through a blizzard, and that beautiful middle place where adventure becomes healing. You'll want to focus later in the episode when Amber and I talk about a number of our bucket list places. You can find Amber at @originwellnessclinic and @breakfreefromchronicillness, and you can find me at @cactusmoose and @theevolvingadventure. Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts — this one is for anyone craving more adventure, more trust, more play, and a little less grind. | |||
| E188: Transforming Grief to Strength, and Moving On Without a Perfect Plan with Christian Zepeda | 06 Jul 2026 | 01:02:32 | |
Transforming grief to strength… and moving on without a perfect plan with Christian Zepeda How often do we delay our dreams because we don't have the entire plan figured out? Today’s guest is endurance athlete, storyteller and adventurer Christian Zepeda. We explore his life journey, touching on the vulnerable topics of grief, resilience, identity, and the courage it takes to move forward when there is no certainty. After losing his mother to cancer, Christian found himself searching for something deeper than achievement. Through endurance sports, travel, and eventually departing on a self-supported adventure, he discovered that some of life's biggest transformations begin with a simple decision: "I don't know the route. I just know I'm going south." You’ll hear a powerful conversation about how to navigate loss, trust your intuition, let go of the expectations that can keep us stuck and stagnating, and how to find meaning in the unknown. Hint: it starts with presence. This is an inspiring episode that reminds us, as John Wayne is quoted, “courage is being scared to death… but saddling up anyways.” If you’re staring at a major life transition, grieving and recovering from loss, questioning your current path, rebuilding after burnout, or simply feeling called toward something bigger, today you’ll come away with the heartfelt reminder that courage is rarely the absence of fear; courage is moving forward while you’re feeling that fear. Christian and I also discuss lessons he learned after losing his mother to cancer; how and why adventure is a powerful tool for healing; the difference between feeling safe and feeling alive; trusting yourself when there is no roadmap; what happens when you stop living to meet other people’s expectations; and why presence is often overlooked in modern life. The biggest takeaway for me is realizing that I’ve spent years preparing for a future life at the sacrifice of truly and deeply experiencing the flavors of life that are happening in the present: I’ll start my business when I’m feeling confident and financially settled. I’ll quit the job when I’ve saved a certain amount. I’ll sign up for that race when my training has been great for three months. I’ll chase that dream when I’m done working this season. It’s funny how certainty and safety are an illusion. As attributed to Benjamin Franklin: "He who would trade liberty for some temporary security, deserves neither liberty nor security." Christian's story reminds us all that growth doesn't begin when we know exactly how everything will unfold, at a time that’s convenient with nothing else going on. Growth starts when we take the next best step for ourselves, even when it feels like we're walking out into the dark without star, a headlamp, or any reference point. If you have been challenged with anxiety, overwhelm, self-doubt, or the feeling that life is passing by while you're waiting for the "right time," this episode offers a refreshing perspective: You do not need the entire map today, friends. You just need the courage to take the next step. Listen today on Spotify (and follow the show!) here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4ZwZSywLvOO8uOQB2BGcX0?si=tC1A2X6hQPCR4GGzHo6kcA Be sure to follow @cactusmoose, @theevolvingadventure and @christianzepeda2 | |||
| E187: Manifesting with Madi: Doing Big Things Before You're Ready | 29 Jun 2026 | 00:55:38 | |
What happens when you overhear someone filming a "manifesting" video in a coffee shop and decide to start a conversation? Tune in to the latest episode of The Evolving Adventurer podcast! Today you’ll learn how Madi is documenting an ambitious goal: buying or selling 12 homes in 12 months as a brand-new realtor in Arizona! While many people would wait until they feel confident, experienced, or financially secure, Madi took the leap, and is growing her wings on the way down… while sharing all the ups and downs publicly. While she’s yet to officially close a deal—at least as of when we recorded this—she speaks with a certainty that it will transpire. We have a wide-ranging discussion with the core tenet being her willingness to do things scared. Madi has a varied background including being a police recruit, baker, doula, business owner, baker, homeschooling mom, bodybuilder, and now, a realtor. Along the way she learned that courage isn't confidence; it’s taking the next step when confidence hasn't shown up yet. Her family's mantra says it perfectly: "Even when we're scared, we be brave anyways." That's a lesson a lot of us need right now. We also talked about a topic relevant to all: personal safety. After receiving serious threats while hosting open houses, Madi chose to invest in additional training to be prepared. It is a powerful reminder that growth isn't always about chasing dreams; sometimes growth comes when you are protecting them. This is a fun—and deep—conversation where you’ll about entrepreneurship, resilience, personal safety, authenticity on social media, balancing motherhood with work, and what it’s like to pursue a dream before you feel ready. If you’re looking to building a life on your own terms, I think you'll enjoy this one. As Madi reminds us, "The only difference between successful people and unsuccessful people is that successful people did it scared.” Remember, courage isn’t the absence of fear… it’s feeling it and moving forward anyway. Share this episode with a friend who needs that reminder, and let us know in the comments something that you went for while feeling scared. You can follow the “Manifesting with Madi” series on her account @Madison.azrealtor and you can find the whole interview on Spotify here: | |||
| E186: Bri Boley: Solo Aventures & Secret Superpowers | 22 Jun 2026 | 01:04:12 | |
What would you do if someone tells you that you're not built for the thing you love most? In today’s episode of The Evolving Adventurer, I chat with ultrarunner, coach, mom and adventurer Bri Boley. What started off as a funny case of mistaken identity at Javelina Jundred this past October led to a powerful conversation about grit, self-belief, and choosing your own path—even when “experts,” injuries, and fear suggest otherwise. Bri shares how a physical therapist once told her she didn't have a "runner's body.” That comment—or her Aries nature—fueled her determination: she went from struggling through three-mile runs and finishing last at a 5K race to thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, racing ultramarathons, and coaching endurance athletes around the world. We venture into the challenges, and realities, of balancing adventure, motherhood, work, and training. Bri opens up about creating guilt-free time for herself, unexpected superpowers that come from being a busy parent, and why sustainable success is about much more than mileage, heart rate data, or race results. You’ll learn lessons that transcend the endurance space: different perspectives on long-term growth, resilience, and building a life that supports your passions. Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, healer, parent, or simply someone trying to reconnect with the things that make you feel most alive, today’s conversation is packed with wisdom, humor, and inspiration. From solo backpacking adventures at 17 to Cocodona crewing stories to rediscovering joy after burnout, Bri reminds us all that sometimes the most important journey isn't about going farther—it's about returning to who you were before the world told you what you could or couldn't become. Comment BRI and I’ll send you the link. Timestamps: 02:29 - How a whim led to eleven years living in a mountain town 03:36 - Bree's upbringing in Corvallis, Oregon, and her early sports journey 05:24 - From cheerleading to running and overcoming injury challenges 07:51 - Discovering her passion for trail and ultrarunning 11:25 - Building endurance through long-distance hikes and trail adventures 12:47 - Transition to ultrarunning with the Colorado Trail and PCT 13:36 - The mindset of grit and determination that drives her pursuits 16:24 - How her own injury history fuels her coaching approach 17:50 - The importance of long-term vision in athletic development 22:08 - Supporting athletes of all levels with empathy and process-oriented goals 25:58 - Balancing training with family life and mom superpowers 28:34 - The significance of time efficiency and intentional self-care 32:36 - Embracing solo adventures to build resilience and confidence 36:28 - Crewing at Cocodona and supporting incredible performances 43:02 - Bri’s upcoming challenge: Oregon Outback 230 in 2026 50:03 - Her love for exploring new trails and avoiding race repetition 58:36 - The power of solitude and quiet in long-distance adventures 62:03 - Connecting with Bree: social media and coaching opportunities Resources & Links:
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| E185: Natasha Swartley: Barbie the Bomb Builder: Living Bold & Brave | 15 Jun 2026 | 01:06:24 | |
Barbie the Bomb Builder to Badass Join us today, friends, as veteran Natasha Swartley, the wondering--and wandering--lost unicorn @ shares her powerful journey. From starting her career as Barbie the Bomb Builder, to taking bold, brave steps exploring America, going back to school not once, but twice, and how networking led to some amazing opportunities. From her early days in a toxic household to a successful military career, from feeling isolated as a female veteran to finding community in trail running, Natasha walks us through the ups, downs and laughs of boot camp, being a foot whisperer thanks to NOLS W-EMT training, and resources available for veterans with her signature—and candid—storytelling. She is the embodiment of strength, perseverance and courage… and perhaps she’ll work on your blistered feet at an upcoming ultra! You’ll learn the power of resilience and finding the right community as Natasha shares feelings of disconnection, and how asking for help changed her in a beautiful way: trails literally and figuratively saved her life. It’s hard not to be inspired after listening to the episode; Natasha encourages anyone facing adversity to find strength within and to seek support — whether through military service, outdoor adventures, or connecting with a community. I’m excited to follow her journey on this exciting new chapter! Can you keep up with the shenanigans of @wonderlostunicorn ?? Timestamps: 01:04 - Early motivation to serve and joining the Navy 03:13 - Why Natasha chose aviation ordnance and her military experiences 08:25 - Transition from military to civilian life and dealing with mental health 12:19 - Volunteer roles at ultra races and impacting runners' lives 16:27 - Overcoming veteran depression and seeking help 20:53 - Understanding veteran suicide and suicide prevention efforts 25:04 - Community support and how trail running mirrors military teamwork 27:01 - Training the mind for hard, unpredictable conditions 29:13 - Practical race strategies: focus, hydration, and mental clarity 32:31 - Supporting others at aid stations and the importance of simple acts 37:51 - Memorable race moments and impactful stories 44:37 - Fulfillment found in service, volunteering, and community involvement 46:47 - Upcoming races and educational pursuits in Colorado 52:44 - Moving to Colorado, new opportunities, and dreams realized 61:56 - Advice to younger Natasha and lessons for others 64:40 - Closing thoughts: strength, worthiness, and community Links: | |||
| E184: Corinne Shalvoy: Women Can. | 08 Jun 2026 | 01:01:14 | |
Thank you for listening today, friends! We’ve got a treat today, as Corinne Shalvoy, founder of Women Can. shares her inspiring journey of walking away from a high-level career in corporate America because it no longer aligned with her values and passions to creating a movement to celebrate women’s pursuits through all walks of life. The Women Can. Movement symbolizes strength and capability and goes beyond running to celebrate whatever a woman is passionate about going after. Corinne’s journey resonates with many, as she used a simple shirt with the message "women can do anything" as a catalyst for change. The Women Can. shirt she created has become more than just clothing; it is a statement of empowerment and a reminder for women everywhere that they have control over their narratives. Women’s sports, and the narrative around women in sports, is changing rapidly and dramatically, particularly since The Cocodona 250 - a race Corinne commentated for the 4th year in a row. Corinne shares her thoughts on how to increase women’s participation in races, and how men can advocate for and support all women. The Women Can. movement is making an impact in the running world and beyond. Today you’ll discover how Corinne’s passion for running and community building is reshaping perceptions and empowering women everywhere. Corinne Shalvoy is not just an athlete; she is a trailblazer who turned her passion—and an idea from a shirt—into purpose. A lifelong runner who believes her most competitive days are still ahead at the age of 43, you’ll learn how she grew up in the Colorado mountains, overcame challenges with body image, and reconnected with her passion for running. It was while reflecting on her life direction that she initiated a change from corporate America to focusing on what’s truly important to her. Her life experience, including her journey with running and as a media personality, shaped the vision for Women Can. You’ll also get Corinne’s thoughts on the significance of women breaking records in ultras, the power of community and supportive environments, and strategies to increase women’s participation in races and physical activity. She also shares the important role that mentorship and coaching played in her personal journey to where she is today. We also venture into balancing family, coaching and community engagement, the next generation of athletes and ways for men and allies to support women’s endeavors without intimidation. As Corinne shares today, you have the power to redefine your path. Embracing your true self and passions can lead to incredible change. What's out there beyond where you currently are? | |||
| E183: Wynonna Fulgham: The Healing Role of Running | 02 Jun 2026 | 01:07:42 | |
Thank you for listening, friends! Today we’ve got Wynonna Fulgham talking about her deep connection to her Diné culture, inspirational ultrarunning journey, and her role as a Native woman in the running community. You’ll learn how running is a spiritual practice, means of healing, and a form of cultural expression for indigenous communities. You’ll also find out what it’s like to finish 100 challenging, mountain miles at the Bradshaw Brute race, sleep for 4 hours, then start the 125 mile journey of Sedona Canyons as part of Cocodona! Wynonna shares about the profound connection between indigenous culture, land, spirituality, and running. Her story is one of resilience, community, and honoring ancestral traditions through both physical endurance and emotional healing. Each run is a ritual based on connection: to yourself, your community and your ancestors. Each step is a prayer, a way to honor your journey while acknowledging the challenges that come along the way. Wynonna shares how to find strength in vulnerability, and to honor the journey together. Prepare to learn about Diné culture, and to be inspired by Wynonna’s physical and mental endurance… and how running can be a ceremony that shapes identity. Wynonna is a certified coach to help indigenous women runners get to the start line of ultras. Connect with her on Instagram @blacksheep_running Key topics
Timestamps 02:04 - Wynonna’s background and cultural identity as a Diné woman 03:03 - Experiences with the documentary "The Cut-Off" and race challenges 05:34 - The spiritual significance of land, drumming, and ceremonies in races 09:03 - Emotions in finishing and the ceremonial closure of races 12:03 - Connection of running to Diné culture and ancestral practices 16:50 - The evolution of her running journey since puberty 23:02 - Giving offerings and respecting land during races 24:42 - The symbolism of sacred mountains and ancestral strength 26:37 - How running acts as a healing and cultural act 36:38 - Wynonna’s role as a teacher and community role model 39:12 - Increasing representation of indigenous women in ultrarunning 43:10 - Supporting Native Women Run and its mission 47:28 - Land acknowledgment and cultural respect for outdoor enthusiasts 50:45 - How to support indigenous runners through donations and awareness 53:09 - Wynonna’s future plans and upcoming races in 2026 55:26 - The Burrito League experience and community engagement 62:38 - Reflections on community, support, and racing experiences 67:05 - Connecting with Wynonna and supporting her journey ahead Resources & Links
Connect with Wynonna | |||
| E182: Brenna Thiessen: Fun, Frugal Fridays and Getting Faster in the Quest to Qualify for Boston | 26 May 2026 | 00:53:07 | |
Thank you for listening today, friends: we’ve got Brenna Thiessen joining today from Calgary! Brenna shares her journey today from shy non-runner to run club leader hosting weekly events, shooting for a Boston, Chicago and New York qualifying time at the Calgary Marathon. She chats with us about her run journey, relocating to Calgary, stepping away from running, and the improbable way she became a run club host with her club, Fun Frugal Fridays. In today’s episode, Brenna shares how her marathon goals evolved after her first race in Minneapolis, where she pushed through feeling terrible and still crossed the finish line proud. She breaks down her training approach, including navigating Calgary’s unpredictable weather—from chinook warmth to snow in May—and the importance of heat and hydration strategies on race day. The importance of community is a theme that runs strong on this podcast, and today’s episode doesn’t disappoint. You’ll hear the passion in her voice: discover the secret to making big life changes, from cross-country moves to launching a community organization, and how running has helped Brenna overcome shy tendencies and foster a sense of belonging. Whether you’re just heading out for your first run, training for your first 10k or a seasoned runner, remember: it’s all about taking that first step on the journey. Brenna’s story is packed with practical tips on managing training while maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle, including diet hacks, cross-training, and the importance of asking for help. She exemplifies how embracing vulnerability and staying true to yourself unlocks opportunities beyond your wildest dreams. Connect with Brenna and join her Calgary run community on Instagram at @iambthiessen and @FunFrugalFridayRunner What has running taught you about yourself? #EvolvingAdventure #CalgaryMarathon #RunningCommunity #MarathonTraining #YYCRunCrew #BurritoLeague Timestamps: 02:18 - Her personal best and recent race insights 04:14 - Calgary marathon week festivities and community events 06:33 - Insights on marathon participation rates and community size 08:23 - Brenna’s journey into running and overcoming health challenges 11:55 - Starting and growing the Fun Frugal Friday run club 13:36 - Managing weather challenges and event logistics in Calgary 15:49 - Community engagement and demographic reach of her run groups 17:50 - Participation during Calgary Stampede and weather considerations 19:27 - Weather impact on training and race day prep 21:04 - Tapering, race week activities, and marathon day plans 22:37 - Cross-training, alternative activities, and recovery strategies 23:37 - Nutrition, hydration, gels, and fueling for races 26:35 - Transitioning into trail running and significant trail races 29:45 - Challenge of trail running and race experiences like Minotaur 35:19 - Embracing new opportunities and future race plans 36:34 - Support systems, partnerships, and organizing community events 40:40 - Skills needed to start and manage a run club 43:36 - Moving from Vancouver to Calgary and lessons on making life changes 46:15 - The importance of community, belonging, and personal growth 48:22 - Advice to follow passions and staying true to oneself 49:47 - Connecting with Brenna and her Calgary run community Resources & Links:
Connect with Brenna:
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| E181: Heidi Garner: The Magic of Night Running... and a Squirrel on Cocaine. | 19 May 2026 | 01:20:09 | |
Thank you for listening today, friends! We've got a fun episode with Heidi Garner today, in which we'll learn what it's like to create artwork and merchandise for races, run a small business while navigating family schedules, and plan out an award-winning Javelina Jundred costume. Heidi also shares some of her hard-earned wisdom with us, including the relevance of squirrels on cocaine, the evolution of her creative process, and why it's important to train in the dark. Heidi’s stories remind us that sometimes, the most extraordinary moments happen when the world goes quiet and we venture into the dark. Heidi is an incredible artist, accomplished runners in ultras and on roads, and volunteer in the community. She isn't just an ultrarunner: she's an artist, mother, and passionate storyteller who believes that the little moments shared on the trail are what make races so special. She lives with her husband and children near the Canyons and Western States courses. The long quote Heidi provides comes from Jenny Lawson's book How To Be Okay When Nothing Is Okay. Use the discount code Greggi15 for 15% off on Heidi's website https://heidigarnerstudio.com/ Topics we cover include:
Timestamps: 02:03 - Night running as a favorite ultra feature 03:26 - The magic of running through the night 05:10 - How Heidi got into ultrarunning 06:40 - Transition from road running to trail ultras 07:41 - The trail community and trail races 10:00 - Family involvement and trail running for kids 13:20 - Heidi’s art development and connection to ultrarunning 17:44 - Creating race-specific apparel and collaborations 22:40 - The process of designing race merchandise 26:07 - How Heidi balances her creative work and running schedule 29:54 - Race planning, training, and managing life with four kids 32:23 - The importance of community and shared race experiences 36:45 - Memorable trail moments and meaningful conversations 38:48 - Small moments that create lasting memories in ultras 40:00 - Trail gifts and surprises on the trail 43:00 - Trail safety, first aid, and respecting nature 47:49 - Costumes, race antics, and fun race traditions 55:27 - Famous race moments and quirky race costumes 57:03 - Family support, community involvement, and race plans 64:19 - Upcoming events and exciting collaborations 67:40 - Costume stories, race highlights, and playful race culture 75:39 - The balance of humor, community, and trail adventure 78:35 - Connecting with Heidi on social media and supporting her work 79:01 - Closing thoughts and upcoming races Links
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| E180: Megan Flanagan: The Art of Belonging While Running Your Own Race | 12 May 2026 | 00:55:37 | |
Thank you for listening today, friends! Today we’ll learn how Megan Flanagan combines her passion for running, community, and personal growth to create spaces for meaningful connection, including her innovative new app called BelongNow, Strong Runner Chicks (and upcoming retreat), and develop supportive networks. We explore her inspiring journey, plans for fostering meaningful human connections beyond the trail, and some mental skills that are helpful in both endurance sports and life contexts. Megan is the founder of Strong Runner Chicks, host of the Evolve Your Path podcast and coaches multi-passionate professionals and high achievers to redefine success on their own terms through Evolved Potential. Is there something holding you back from making a change? Follow along for inspiration and anecdotes from Megan’s inspiring story! Be sure to like and follow Megan, the Evolve Your Path podcast, me @cactusmoose and The Evolving Adventurer podcast Jump to: 02:18 - Megan's non-linear running journey from childhood to ultra races 04:43 - The explosion of ultrarunning and women's mental health advocacy 06:45 - The challenge of making new connections after moving, and in adulthood 07:44 - Megan’s mission with the BelongNow app to foster social connection and belonging 10:00 - How BelongNow promotes local events, shared interests, and network growth 12:44 - Gamification and incentivization for organizing community meetups 14:24 - Creating inclusive spaces that accommodate various paces and personalities 18:00 - The power of community in trailrunning and retreats for deep bonds 22:37 - Parallels between endurance racing and life's unpredictability 25:11 - Using mental reframing and visualization during races and setbacks 27:19 - Lessons learned from job layoffs and career transitions 29:34 - Managing stress, success, and expectations in high-performance environments 32:12 - Megan’s professional background in workplace well-being and holistic health 35:24 - Reflecting on personal growth, vision boards, and future goals 42:46 - Insights into organizing retreats: structure, community and lasting impact 50:03 - Building lifelong friendships through shared adventures and vulnerable conversations 52:53 - The subtle power of outdoor, trail, and group activities to enhance connection Resources | |||
| E179: Nails, Hair, Packs, Shoes with Sierra DeGroff | 05 May 2026 | 01:13:33 | |
You've seen her hair and nails... now hear about her packs and shoes! We've got Sierra DeGroff on the podcast today chatting about her experiences at looped courses, competing for the 100K national team, and ordering custom gear for her adventures. Sierra shares about her transition from road marathons to trail ultras, her experiences building community, training and racing in Las Vegas, and her upcoming adventures, including Denali. She offers insights into race planning, shoe selection, pacing strategies, and balancing a busy schedule with recovery and health.
Follow Sierra on Instagram 100K National Team Timestamps: | |||
| E178: Sarah June: Burritos, FKTs and the importance of food | 29 Apr 2026 | 00:59:32 | |
Thank you for listening today, friends. Our guest today is Sarah June, @sarah.j.june, who finished as third female in Burrito League in Tempe, Arizona, which was livestreamed on the Mountain Outpost YouTube.. Sarah completed 807 miles on Mill Ave during January, which built up her confidence to tackle, and set the Fastest Known time (FKT) for the 247 mile Maricopa Loop in Arizona. It was neat to see the Burrito League community come out in support of her endeavor, which was generously supported by Mount To Coast. The Maricopa Loop FKT documentary is coming soon... stay tuned for that announcement! One of the key takeaways from Sarah's Burrito League experience is that community support plays a key role: it's not just about miles run, but the friendships formed along the way. Sarah is also a coach offering guidance for ultrarunners, and hosting a Flagstaff, AZ retreat in June. Check her Instagram for more details! Her 2026 adventures include competing in Sedona Canyons 125 as part of the Cocodona series, and an attempt at the Iceland Ring Road FKT later in the summer... perhaps with a Kula Cloth. #Ultrarunning #FKT #TrailCommunity #RunningJourney #SupportSquad Are you curious about how running can transform your body and perhaps your outlook on life? Tag a runner who needs to hear this! | |||
| E177: Candy, Costco and Manifesting Leadville with Margaret Spring | 21 Apr 2026 | 01:24:49 | |
Have you ever felt like giving up on a dream? Margaret Spring, @margaret_t_spring, almost did at mile 88 of the Leadville 100! Listen today to learn how she turned it around... Tag someone who’s chasing a dream against all odds! Three years ago, Margaret attempted the Leadville 100... it ended with a brutal DNF at mile 88. It was heart-wrenching, but it taught her resilience and the importance of perseverance. Jumping back to the present day, Margaret is back, training harder than ever, and ready to tackle the iconic Leadville course again! With each setback, she has learned more about my strength and determination. Margaret is also running for a cause close to her heart: the Annunciation Light Foundation. Join us as we recap Margaret's manifestation of a Leadville race entry through perseverance, her Grand Canyon adventures, fundraising for various causes, and her love of Costco for fueling up on candy. Thank you for listening along on her journey! #Leadville100 #RunningForACause #NeverGiveUp #trailrunning #ManifestingDreams In this episode you'll learn all aboutMargaret's history with Leadville and lessons from her first attempt at 100 miles, including how health setbacks influenced her comeback, how she's powered by candy, and how some of her running nad baking love developed. 00:00 - Introduction to Margaret’s journey and race manifesting 02:25 - Overcoming setbacks: illness before Leadville 100 04:47 - Training through autoimmune challenges and setbacks 06:42 - Manifesting race entry with humor and creativity 08:46 - Strategies for securing race spots: lotteries, giveaways, and competitions 11:31 - Practical fueling tips: candy, gels, and homemade replacements 17:47 - Race terrain facts: high altitude, Leadville trails 20:33 - Gear hacks: keeping hands warm and opening foods easily 22:45 - Fueling ideas: mini eggs, candies, and creative smoothies 26:12 - Favorite snacks: Smarties, Aero, Oreos, and international treats 30:21 - Candy and baking adventures: from Chief Candy Tasting Officer to sourdough starter stories 32:30 - Dental care and gear prep during ultra races 35:51 - Incorporating vegetables and healthy snacks into long runs 39:02 - Costco hacks for affordable race fueling and essentials 43:07 - Avoiding gut issues: food choices and real-food fueling 45:23 - The joy of running with cake and creating homemade race foods 52:30 - Reflections on community, shared adventures, and plans for future races 58:53 - Exploring trail hazards like snakes, and safety tips for high-altitude races 64:41 - Margaret’s Grand Canyon and international adventure stories 70:08 - Supporting loved ones and race experiences in iconic Colorado locations 77:15 - Dream races and bucket list adventures in Europe and beyond 82:16 - Collaborative ideas: cake league, pancake pop-ups, and custom race gear 86:44 - Reflections on ultrarunning communities and the spirit of fun competition Links: Leadville 100 Race Official Site Skratch Labs | |||
| E176: Surfing the menopause wave: laughs, challenges and BREAKING STUFF with Jen Laughlin | 17 Apr 2026 | 01:23:38 | |
Thank you for listening today, friends! We about to have a candid and humours chat with Jen Laughlin about her journey through menopause, unexpected growth as she supports women in midlife, and adventures in ultrarunning. You'll learn how honesty, humor, communication and community-building can empower women, and help tackle the physical and emotional challenges of aging, fitness, and life. Some of the topics we cover include:
Timestamps: | |||
| E175: TJ Harms-Synkiew: Different flavors of Ultras | 30 Mar 2026 | 00:58:25 | |
Competing in Burrito League was the ultimate test for TJ Harms-Synkiew: a second-place finish with over 1,000 miles in 26 days… not on dirt or mountain trails, but navigating city streets, road crossings, physical pain and intense mental battles. He finished with grit, learning that patience and mental toughness matter just as much as miles. In an unexpected twist, TJ's biggest challenge wasn’t the miles, but managing the mental struggle — from feeling like giving up to finding confidence in pushing through pain. His story shows us that endurance isn’t just physical; it’s a mindset you build day by day. Something worth thinking about.What’s the biggest mental hurdle you’ve overcome in your journey? Let us know in the comments. Connect with TJ to follow his adventures and get inspired by his incredible endurance and passion for ultra running!
Don't forget to like and subscribe to this podcast! The video version can be found on the CactusMoose YouTube channel. #UltraRunning #MentalToughness #EnduranceLife #RaceMindset #PushYourLimits | |||
| E174: Maia Detmer: Community Connection through Loops & Burritos | 24 Mar 2026 | 01:02:13 | |
We’ve got a fun episode in store today, friends! Maia Detmer shares her inspiring journey from a childhood rooted in sports to becoming a dedicated trauma nurse and an accomplished ultrarunner. She started running to improve her health, and shares with us the intense experiences of last person standing race, the vibrant community fostered through Across the Years, Jackpot Ultras and Burrtio League. Maia has some big goals this year, and is an inspiring figure in the world of ultras where she competes with support from Aravaipa Running and Ultraspire. "Honestly, you can trick your brain. If you put a smile on your face, you're actually doing better or feeling better than you think. It's all temporary." - Maia Detmer Main Topics Covered:
Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction & Maia’s multifaceted background 02:34 - Transition from sports to ultrarunning for health 04:14 - Maia’s positivity and the power of smiling 05:20 - The mental game in ultra races and faking it till you make it 06:26 - Race interactions and mutual support in ultra community 08:00 - Experiencing UNLV and shared memories 09:02 - Reflections on Across the Years 2020 and race experiences 10:02 - Personal milestones, emotions, and finishing strong 11:27 - The significance of community encouragement during races 12:33 - Notable race moments and avoiding injuries 14:10 - Recovery and Maia’s health updates post-race 16:18 - Deep friendships and community bonds formed in ultras 17:54 - Maia’s experience supporting and pacing friends 18:40 - Reflection on Jackpot and race fatigue 19:21 - Training and preparation for upcoming races 22:18 - Creating race support atmosphere with memorable moments like kazoo interruptions 24:25 - The impact of community support and surprises during the race 26:44 - Memorable race antics and rivalry banter 28:33 - The camaraderie of recurring participants and race traditions 30:41 - Maia’s involvement with Burrito League and community organization 33:54 - Challenges of race organization and future plans 36:01 - Behind-the-scenes of race management and community engagement 41:38 - Upcoming ultra races and Maia’s coaching journey 46:15 - How Burrito League served as training for longer races 52:57 - Maia’s future ambitions in the ultra distance scene 58:58 - Maia’s race day photos and candid moments 61:45 - Post-race recovery and injury management 63:17 - Future goals including Tahoe 200 and beyond 64:18 - Follow Maia: social media and upcoming adventures 65:47 - Closing thoughts and upcoming races like Trail TrashedResources & Links:
Connect with Maia Detmer: | |||
| E173: Taryn Shaffer: Ultrarunning for Self-Discovery | 16 Mar 2026 | 01:04:52 | |
From spontaneous moves to becoming an ultrarunner, her story is a testament to embracing change, managing discomfort and chasing dreams. Taryn's path from Texas to Utah is filled with unexpected turns, majestic landscapes, overcoming an eating disorder, and discovering a love for the trails. #womeninrunning #icandohardthings #ultrarunning #eatingdisorderrecovery #chaseyourdreams
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| E172: Whitney Dancaster: From Burrito Queen to Trailblazing Adventures | 10 Mar 2026 | 01:06:26 | |
Join us on today's episode as we dive into the world of Whitney Dancaster, an elite trail runner from the East Coast, sponsored by Newton Running. Whitney shares her thrilling journey from city streets to ultramarathons, and how she's building a vibrant running community. Tune in for tales of her Burrito League escapades, safety smarts, race prep secrets, gear must-haves, and her sky-high goals for the future.Key Topics Include:
Chapters: 00:00 - Meet Whitney: ultrarunning roots and community capers Please follow this show on Spotify. It really helps! Note: Always be trail-ready with navigation tools, safety gear, and wildlife wisdom. Whitney champions gear testing, terrain savvy, and community support for a sustainable and joyful trail running adventure. Keywords: trail running, ultra marathon, Burrito League, safety tips, race preparation, community, gear, hydration, navigation, wildlife, women's running. | |||
| E171: Healing through Rhythm: Exploring Drums & Rattles with Robyn | 06 Mar 2026 | 00:52:30 | |
Healing through Rhythm: Exploring Drums & Rattles with Robyn Join us in this inspiring conversation with Robyn, artist and Métis healer, as she shares her journey into making drums and rattles, their cultural significance, and how these sacred tools facilitate healing and self-discovery. Discover practical insights on crafting, using, and connecting with these powerful instruments in your personal practice. In this episode:
Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and the healing potential of drums & rattles Resources & Links: During the guided mini session, Robyn invites you to simply listen, notice sensations, and trust your intuition — there’s no right or wrong experience. Remember: These sacred tools are actives of transformation. Trust your inner voice, and allow their sound and energy to lead you toward healing and deeper connection. | |||
| E170: Embracing Transformation: Krista's journey with healing and BodyTalk | 12 Feb 2026 | 01:12:48 | |
Discover Krista’s inspiring story of overcoming mental health struggles, shifting from conventional medicine to holistic modalities like Body Talk, and reclaiming her vitality. This episode dives deep into her personal evolution, the power of energetic healing, and practical insights for anyone seeking profound transformation.
Key Topics: 00:00 - Introduction and Krista’s background in healing and personal growth Resources & Links:
Connect with Krista:
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| E169: Asia: Body connection through breathwork | 11 Dec 2025 | 00:52:43 | |
Thank you for listening, friends! Today, Asia Jackson of Wild Mountain Breathwork in Vernon, BC shares her transformative journey through breathwork and cold plunging, detailing how these practices helped her reconnect with herself and her surroundings. In this episode, Asia discusses the importance of creating safe spaces for breathwork, the science behind it, and how it has impacted her parenting and personal relationships. She emphasizes the significance of listening to one's body and intuition, and offers advice for anyone who may be hesitant to explore breathwork. There is a profound connection between the effects of breathwork on mental health, connection, and self-discovery. If you find something in this episode helpful, please consider sharing with a friend and leaving a review. Takeaways *Breathwork can help reconnect individuals with their bodies and emotions. *Cold plunging served as a catalyst for Asia's transformation. *Breathwork allows for emotional release and healing. *The practice fosters deeper connections with oneself and others. *Parenting perspectives shift through the lens of breathwork. *Creating safe spaces is essential for effective breathwork sessions. *Breathwork can bridge the gap between science and spirituality. *Listening to one's body is crucial in the healing process. *Intuition plays a significant role in personal growth and decision-making. *Daily breathwork practices can train the nervous system for better emotional regulation. Asia took her training with Breathless Expeditions, taking both the 21 Day Nervous System reset and the facilitator training course. She also offers several free breath work tracks on her website, Wild Mountain Breathwork. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Breathwork and Personal Journey 05:55 The Transformative Power of Cold Plunging 11:40 Discovering Breathwork: A Path to Connection 17:35 Shifts in Perception and Relationships 23:19 The Science Behind Breathwork 29:23 Integrating Breathwork into Daily Life 34:37 Facilitating Breathwork: Observations and Experiences 39:53 Intuitive Insights Through Personal Breathwork 45:36 Grounding Practices for Breathwork Facilitators 50:02 Advice for Newcomers to Breathwork breathwork, cold plunging, personal growth, mindfulness, mental health, connection, parenting, facilitation, self-discovery, wellness | |||
| E168: The benefits of Reiki | 11 Nov 2025 | 00:27:40 | |
Thank you for listening today, friends! I'm a recently attuned reiki master, and today's episode discusses some of the benefits and myths about reiki, energy healing, and healing at a distance. I wanted to share this information to clear misconceptions and promote awareness of the huge shifts, pain relief, emotional regulation, and relaxation that reiki and energy healing can have on the physical, emotional and spiritual bodies. It's been profound for me in my life journey. As promised in the episode, here are the links to studies I reference in today's episode: A Large-Scale Effectiveness Trial of Reiki for Physical and Psychological Health Does practicing Reiki alter the electromagnetic field of heart and hands of practitioners? If you're curious to learn more about reiki, energy healing, other modalities I use, or book a session, connect with me through my website or on Instagram | |||
| E167: Navigating anxiety in outdoor adventures | 08 Sep 2025 | 01:22:27 | |
Anxiety can derail an adventure, sometimes even before it starts. Today's episode discusses eight common sources of anxiety for outdoor adventurers and strategies to navigate and mitigate those uncertainties with confidence. Together we'll learn how to manage anxieties around getting lost, physical performance, weather, wildlife, injuries, social dynamics, planning and pooping. Thanks for listening, friends! To give back to the community, I am offering a 3-pack of sessions, focused on anxiety, in October, November and December. One session per month, emailed out as an mp3 for you to listen and relisten to, incorporating such modalities as Linking Awareness, BodyTalk, reiki and more.. These will be for the group energetics of whomever signs up, and available to you for life. DM me for more information. Whether you’re preparing for something big or small, whether you’re already already in it, whether you’re thinking about it one day, or whether you’re returning from an injury and unsure if you can do it—I offer coaching and energetic support sessions that go beyond the mileage. Let’s talk. I help overwhelmed, injured and burned out adventurers recover their energy, reclaim their spirit, and return to the trail… whether it’s in the wilderness or in life. Check out my website for more information. You can check out more of my services at www.gregveregin.com or on Instagram @cactusmoose Links to items mentioned in the episode: Kula Cloth | |||
| E166: Comeback season: returning to adventure after an injury | 07 Aug 2025 | 00:30:07 | |
Thanks for listening today, friends! Y'all may have noticed I haven't been as active on my social media, Cactus Moose recently due to an unfortunate and significant ankle injury. That injury sparked today's episode of tips for returning to adventure after an injury, and suggestions of strategies to maintain mental resilience during that transition. Injuries are a challenge to navigate both in the physical limitations and in the mental struggles of not enjoying the free movement of the body we may have come to rely upon. As always, connect with me at cactus moose[aT] protonmail {dot} com with questions, comments and guest suggestions. Enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day! If you're curious to learn more about sessions or coaching, you can check out my website here. | |||
| E165: Micro-adventures: big impacts in small packages | 28 Jul 2025 | 00:29:43 | |
Alastair Humphreys defined a micro adventure as “short, simple, local, and cheap.” When you're short on time, but still want an outdoor excursion, try a microadventure! Today's episode breaks down my recent afternoon hike micro adventure. Microadventures are an accessible way for busy persons to get outdoors and are still a potent catalyst for growth. Microadventures build confidence, capability, and reset both our nervous system and our perspective. I share some examples of micro adventures, some tips to prepare, and encourage everyone to get out on one this week. As always, connect with me on Instagram @cactusmoose, on my website gregveregin.com or at cactusmoose [aT} protonmail {d0t] com with questions, comments and guest suggestions. Have a wonderful day! | |||
| E164: Healing my thumb, trusting my gut | 04 Jul 2025 | 00:24:55 | |
Thank you for listening today, friends. It's a different format for today's episode: I share my recent experience trusting my gut and healing my thumb Hey adventurers! Welcome back to The Evolving Adventure(r), where we hit the trails, face the wild, and grow through every challenge life throws at us. I’m gregii, your guide through the dirt, sweat, and soul of outdoor living. Imagine this: you’re gearing up for a run, putting your shorts on, ready to crush today's training plan, and—boom—your thumb just says, “Nah, I’m out.” No fall, no injury, just a thumb that’s gone rogue. That was me in September 2024, staring down a mystery that would test my grit and turn my life upside down. Today, I’m sharing how I told a surgeon’s “no hope” verdict to take a hike, trusted my gut, and healed myself using tools you can tap into, too. From journaling in the desert to energy work that’s straight-up magic, this is a story of taking charge, finding answers, and coming out stronger. So grab some trail mix, lace up, and let’s dive into this adventure—because your body’s got more wisdom than you might think. Links I mention in this episode: My website Linking Awareness The BodyTalk System | |||
| E163: Fire Awareness for recreation | 16 Jun 2025 | 00:42:28 | |
Thanks for listening today, friends! It's almost the summer solstice, and with summer in North America comes the risk of wildfires. Summer recreation is also here: camping, hiking, paddling, biking, running on the trails away from urban noise. This episode is based on my experiences in North America: I'm sure there are comparable resources for listeners in Europe, Australia, South America, Asia that I'm unfamiliar with... but maybe not Antarctica. Today's episode delves into fire awareness tips for outdoor recreation: clothing considerations, checking weather forecasts and fire activity maps, route planning and awareness, and what to do if a fire breaks out during your adventure. I also share a bit about a fire patrol experience two summers ago, and what I learned from putting out a wildfire in the forest that started two days after a lightning strike. Crazy! Below are links to some of the sites I mention: Hiking Guy - wildfire info The Trek - wildfire info Caltopo - fire layer information | |||
| E162: Cocodona learnings | 19 May 2025 | 00:50:18 | |
Cocodona! It's an adventure, a journey, a transformative experience for not just those who attempt the 250 miles from Black Canyon City to Flagstaff, Arizona, but for all who are helping crew, pace and put on the event. Today's episode focuses on lessons learned from observing the 2025 Cocodona race. Being behind-the-scenes, watching the livestream cameras, talking to runners at the finish and following the leaders with a camera lent a unique perspective to observe and absorb. The livestream broadcast can be found on the Mountain Outpost YouTube channel. You can always connect with me on Instagram or at cactusmoose [At] protonmail {dot} com Enjoy, and have a wonderful day! | |||
| E161: "You'll never run again" to 100 miles in 105° | 21 Apr 2025 | 00:42:42 | |
Thank you for listening today, friends! We're back, this time with an episode detailing my running journey. It hasn't been linear, and has involved nearly a dozen uses of the phrase "you'll never run again." The journey has taught me patience, courage, determination and perseverance to reach my goals. I've struggled to finish a one-kilometer run, watched the entire PE class move on to the next activity before I completed the Cooper test (6 lap run of 1.5 miles/2.4km), and DNF'd my first two 100 milers. Focusing on strength, flexibility, nutrition and overall wellness, being open to trying new things such as barefoot shoes, throwing away my orthotics, and incorporating yoga into my routine has kept me healthy to compete in ultras twenty-plus years after the first "you'll never run again." I've had an interesting and non-linear journey as a runner from that first 10km race with WAY too many people, to an injury at a marathon 3 short weeks later to finishing the hottest Javelina Jundred on record. Tune in today to hear about the journey, the decision to become a UESCA ultra running coach, and the training philosophy I offer. I'm here to get you to the finish line with a smile on your face. As always, connect with me on Instagram or through my website. | |||
| E160: Tools & modalities for endurance recovery | 14 Apr 2025 | 00:31:19 | |
Recovery from participating in endurance activities is imperative for those who desire longevity in their career, passion and/or hobby. But what is it, and how do we go about it? Recover can be defined as the exercises, modalities and therapies that are used to reduce soreness, promote healing, reduce the risk of injury, and increase range of motion. Put another way: it's what we do to repair, rebuild and strengthen the body to maximize performance and support health. Today's episode details the various methods that I use to recover from sustained physical efforts and why I use them. I'm sharing this information today to help others find what works best for them. My wellness philosophy includes several modalities eschewed by proponents of the allopathic treatment system in place in North America. Some of these may seem unusual, questionable and unreliable, but they have given me results that the allopathic model could not produce. I encourage everyone to listen to the episode with an open mind: what worked for me may or may not be of interest to you, but it did work. My journey through these modalities is a direct result of being told by Western medical doctors and practitioners multiple times that I would never run again, that I would never run without orthotics, and that surgery was necessary if I dared even hope of running again. The good news is that I followed my intuition to avoid surgical interventions and have not just returned to running, but running pain-free, AND completed 8 ultramarathon races and counting. There is magic in the power of belief, courage, perseverance and the ways that holistic modalities work. In no particular order, the modalities that I have used follow in the list below. If you are curious for recommendations, and live in an area that I mentioned during the episode, please contact me on Instagram or through cactus moos[aT] protonmail[DoT] com. Note that I ONLY refer to people who I have paid for their services, and from whom I have had results. -massage gun -nutrition: electrolytes, protein increase -acupuncture -dry needling -chiropractic -massage: deep tissue, trigger point, myofascial release -yoga: heated power, yin, haha, kundalini -meditations -cross-training: cycling, strength training, paddle boarding, canoeing, hiking, stair mill, mobility -prioritize sleep -barefoot grounding -removed alcohol Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please pass it along to a friend, click the subscribe or follow button, and leave a review on your podcast platform of choice. -gregii | |||
| E159: Ultramarathon training with a physically demanding job | 07 Apr 2025 | 00:56:04 | |
Thank you for listening, friend! Today I'm talking about my experience training for a 100 miler, Javelina Jundred, while working a physically demanding job. A coach help me achieve my goal of completing the 100 miler, in what was my third attempt at the distance. That supportive coaching catalyzed my decision to also pursue ultramarathon coaching through the UESCA certification process. My challenge was to not overtrain while working a job in which I am on my feet all day and burn over 5,000 calories with physical activity. Recovery was a challenge for me, as was fitting in all the life things. In this episode I share my experiences over the summer of 2024, as well as my new process now that I am self-coached. It's an evolving process in which I am using myself as a guinea pig to see how my theory works. Researching strategies for athletes working physically demanding jobs yielded some tips but not a lot of data or personal experiences of the training process. I found resources from CTS Coaching, UESCA, RunningShoesGuru online and combined that with what I am currently doing. Some takeaways from this episode include tips to avoid overtraining, tips to enhance recovery from training, the importance of realistic goals, the benefits of working with a coach, how to maximize training sessions and what cross-training methods can be more supportive. It's an evolving adventure as a self-coached athlete... and one who trains solo at least 95% of the time. If you're in a physical job and looking for support and coaching, I'm happy to chat with about your life situation, goals and current training. I am accepting athletes, and look forward to helping you achieve personal success in whatever form that takes. Remember, you can always contact me through Instagram or at cactus moose[at]protonmail[dot]com with questions, comments, guest suggestions and ultrarun coaching. Enjoy your day, friends! | |||
| E158: Running the Moab Red Hot 55k | 31 Mar 2025 | 00:53:13 | |
After a brief pause for station identification, we're back! It's been awhile since the last episode due to some life changes. Today's episode details my experience running the Moab Red Hot Ultra, the 55k race, produced by Mad Moose Events. It's a fun course in a gorgeous location--truly, one of my favorite places to explore in North America. I go through my race experience, the terrain, and decision to run the race. This episode also covers how to use an ultra as a supported long run. My training had slacked due to life circumstances and an unfortunate rib injury that limited both running and strength training. I chose this race to have fun, meet new people--and maybe make new friends--and to film it using my 360 camera. It was fun to go out and be part of the community, see the pride, joy, pain and relief on the faces of finishers, and remember that there are multiple reasons people run ultras. If this episode inspired you or you learned something, please consider sharing it with someone who will benefit. We're all here to help each other out when we can. A video compilation of my race is in the works, and will be available soon on my Instagram page and YouTube channel. You can always connect with me on Instagram @cactusmoose with questions, comments and guest suggestions. | |||
| E157: Why to suck at something new | 24 Mar 2025 | 00:47:06 | |
Hello! Thanks for listening, and welcome back. Today's episode is one that's a lot more in-depth than the title suggests. I chat about why it's good to learn new skills... which can also be construed as why it is good to suck at something new. The episode is inspired by my acquisition of a 360 camera--the Insta360 X4--and the adventures of trying to document my outdoor adventures. It's been a steep learning curve for me between learning new camera programming, editing software, export settings and filming angles. It has in no way be as easy as I thought it would be, but it has been a fun challenge. Knowledge from a photography course in high school, learning a digital camera a decade ago, and having ideas in my brain have combined so that I'm mediocre at bringing my vision to life... but I'm getting better. I wanted to share my experiences to diminish the stigma around learning new things, particularly as one is over 30. There's a lot of naysayers out there, but it turns out that learning new skills is a wonderful way to work your brain, mitigate against dementia and Alzheimers ,and to increase confidence. The episode also details some benefits of learning new skills, and addresses common fears that can prevent individuals from trying something new. From fear of looking stupid to fear of wasting time and money, the conscious and subconscious programming we received can limit our potential. Overcoming these fears and being okay with being a beginner can lead to greater happiness, build confidence, grow your social circle, expand your comfort zone and improve resilience. Take a listen today to learn how my journey with the camera is going, plus some ways to move through any resistance you have to trying a new things. Our life experience can be enhanced by moving beyond our limits and learning new skills. Resources for this episode include my personal experience and thoughts, a GrowthHackers post, Alicia Clark article entitled "Why it's okay to suck at something new" and a Central Connecticut State University article. Enjoy! As always, connect with me on Instagram or email me cactusmoose[at]protonmail[dot]com | |||
| E156: The benefits of hot springs | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:20:36 | |
Hot Springs is today's topic, friends! I love going to soak in hot springs, preferably when it's just myself and a small group enjoying their ambiance. Today's episode details some of the physical, mental and spiritual benefits of taking a trip to a hot springs. From absorbing trace minerals to reconnecting with a sense of peace and tranquility, hot springs can truly rejuvenate the soul. Listen in for more benefits... and even one of the places I visited in 2024. I decided against sharing a list of my favorite locations to visit hot springs: if you're really curious you can contact me on Instagram or email to inquire. | |||
| E155: Developing courage | 03 Feb 2025 | 00:33:17 | |
Courage can be defined as taking any action that involves facing a fear. An example would be asking someone out on a date despite facing the fear of rejection. Today's episode focuses on how to build courage. I share some tips from personal experience as well as from sources such as Kripalu and BetterUp. Thank you for listening! Connect with me on Instagram or via cactusmoose@protonmail.com with questions, comments and guest suggestions. | |||
| E154: Motivation | 20 Jan 2025 | 00:26:39 | |
Motivation! Motivation:the internal state that drives persons to engage in goal-directed behavior. What are some tips and strategies for accessing the internal force that guides behaviors? How can we stay motivated? Listen to today's episode to find out more. Connect with me by email at cactusmoose@protonmail.com or on Instagram | |||
| E153: Evolving through grief | 13 Jan 2025 | 00:39:25 | |
Thanks for listening to this solo episode today! Grief can be a complicated experience: even finding a definition can be challenging. Grief is the sense of loss that develops from a loved one or something close to our heart being gone from our life. Today's episode discusses grief, and strategies to be aware of if you're experiencing grief, or someone you care about comes to you for support. I go through some of the physical symptoms, emotions, situations in which grief can experienced, the Kubler-Ross framework for grieving process, and strategies to navigate grief using nature. Family or friends can be an invaluable resource when navigating the grief process, as can support groups, nature, and professionals such as counselors and therapists. If you are experiencing grief and struggling with it, please contact someone or connect with me and I can help you get started. Connect with me via cactusmoose@protonmail.com or on Instagram with questions, comments and guest suggestions. | |||
| E152: Sophie Rouge, ultras and adventures | 01 Jan 2025 | 00:36:37 | |
Thank you for joining another episode of The Evolving Adventure(r) podcast! Today's guest is Sophie Rouge, recording with me from Albuquerque, New Mexico. Sophie is an ultrarunner, musician and vegan who has completed several 100 mile races in the past 4 years. Her first ultra was completing Rim to Rim to Rim (R3) of the Grand Canyon after a friend invited her along. Sophie shares some of her adventures with us, and talks about how time spent in nature has helped with her mental health. Shifting into gratitude for being able to run has been key to her growth. Balancing risk in nature is a challenge, and Sophie offers some tips for how to navigate situations from solo running in the bosque to being on exposed ridgelines during hailstorms. Our original recording was lost to technology: this is a second take at covering the topics we first discussed. Luckily on this episode, we chatted more about Sophie's music and her experience volunteering to play music at a hospice. Sophie can be found on Instagram or in her band Catcalling Canines. Sophie has a great lineup of races for 2025 including Jackpot Ultras 48 hour, a 100 miler near Albuquerque and more. We met in Cuba, New Mexico during the Deadman Peaks trail race in 2022. Some of the topics we discuss include: Ultra Cheei Relay & Solo (Albuquerque, NM) Catcalling Canines is playing at Launchpad Albuquerque on Wednesday, January 29 | |||
| E151: Talia Chevassus | 23 Dec 2024 | 00:42:47 | |
It's a treat today to chat with ultra runner and acupuncturist Talia Chevassus! Talia talks about her adventures as a run coach, how her interest in running developed over the past few years, and about future goals. She's rearranged her schedule and life to fit her outdoor passion, while balancing acupuncture clients, yoga and making the majority of her food from scratch. Our discussion also covers Quebec trails (hello, technical!), nutrition for endurance sports and for recovery, using yoga to cross-train and stay injury-free, hiring a coach, and Talia's love of travel to explore on her own two feet. It's an inspiring and empowering episode: as she says, the easiest way to keep progressing is to just do what you need to regardless of the weather. That advice holds true no matter which avenue of life we're considering. Talia is active on Instagram, sharing her run, yoga and food journey as she pushes herself physically while traveling frequently. Talia and I met during the first loop of Javelina Jundred in Fountain Hills, Arizona this fall. Thank you for doing the podcast to share your story, Talia! You can contact me at cactusmoose [at] protonmail.com or through Instagram with questions, comments and guest suggestions. I can also be found at www.gregveregin.com. enjoy! xxxxxxxxxxxx Topics mentioned in this recording include Brix maple syrup endurance fuel Xact nutrition bars Black Men Run offered space in their crew tent UESCA Endurance Sports Coaching certifications UTMB Nice will be Talia's first 100 miler Desert Rats by UTMB is the 100k Talia is running Masboquera, Spain is where Talia is doing a month-long training camp | |||
| E150: Building Resilience | 17 Dec 2024 | 00:35:59 | |
Resilience... what is it, and, more importantly, how can we build it? Resilience is often thought of as the ability to bounce back, or return to a previous "normal" point after a challenging, stressful situation. Generally, the stressor takes the form of an external stressor related to work, relationships, family, health or finances. Resilience can also be how one adapts to life's stressors... and include a component of personal growth to thereby change from who they were before the stressor into a new person. I share some strategies on how to build resilience and what you can do to move through a major life stressor in today's episode. These strategies and tips are from a variety of sources including personal experience, Department of State, American Psychological Association, and Positive Psychology. The focus is more on growth than on returning to where one was pre-stressor, as I think we are always presented with chances to learn and grow. Thank you for listening! Please pass the episode along to someone who could benefit if you vibe with the information and strategies that are shared. You can contact me at cactusmoose@protonmail.com or through Instagram with questions, comments and guest suggestions. | |||
| E149: Ashley Hall, Mountain Explorer | 02 Dec 2024 | 01:11:09 | |
Ashley is an ultrarunner with an incredible track record of outdoor adventures in the Sierras. Moving from marathon training to lose weight for college credit to winning ultramarathons after starting on dirt to better exercise her dog off-leash, Ashley is a badass on trails. We talk about some of the opportunities she has living in the Great Basin with access to the Sierra in less than an hour, exploring the mountains with her dog, then her dogs, camping trips to hot springs, and point-to-point adventures she has her sights on. Ashley has completed a number of epic races, and just as many big adventure days in the Lake Tahoe area. Mindset is a key theme of our discussion, including how to press on in an adventure despite pain and mental challenges, and what it was like exploring, solo, with paper maps. This episode covers Ashley's experience at Javelina Jundred 2024, which featured an entirely runnable course with 105 degree temperatures in the open desert, how to troubleshoot long adventures and ultramarathons when nutrition, weather or injuries take things sideways, and some future experiences on her "one day" list. Ashley frequently explores trails in Tahoe, and shares some of the learnings from her Tahoe Rim Trail Fastest Known Time (FKT) attempt, big future goals, and volunteering at races to give back to the run community. Some of the invaluable wisdom she shares: take baby steps toward your goal then add on. She first started running ten minutes, then added time the next run. Now, she's going after sub-20 hour 100 mile races and pondering some of the most challenging events in North America. If there's a will, there's a way! Ashley can be found out on the trails with one or both of her dogs, or on Instagram at @ashleyyayoutside You can always connect with me on Instagram @cactusmoose or through my website. | |||
| E148: Dead Horse Ultra learnings | 25 Nov 2024 | 00:40:31 | |
Hello friends, and thank you for listening today! We've got a fun episode with Coach Sarah as we discuss our experiences at the Dead Horse Ultra 50 mile race in Moab, Utah on November 16. It was a fun to chat about our learnings, challenges and successes at the race, and to provide information and advice to anyone considering a fall race in the beautiful slickrock around Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, and Dead Horse State Park. We recorded the episode from a hotel room just before taking our own recovery advice and heading for the jacuzzi. Some of the topics covered include our different clothing choices for the weather, the surfaces encountered, cutoff times, navigating challenges and troubleshooting when things go sideways, and how to come back from adversity. Gaining experience, and using that experience to build resilience for the future is a theme that comes out from our discussion. Coach Sarah can be found on Instagram or her website. You can find me on Instagram or through my website. | |||
| E147: Emily Keddie, Mountain Adventurer | 18 Nov 2024 | 01:13:54 | |
Emily Keddie is the first guest on the Evolving Adventurer initiative! Emily is a mountain athlete based in Bend, Oregon with a bold goal of 2 million vertical feet covered, by foot, in 2024. Our conversation is wide-ranging, as always, starting with how to adjust and find balance between the many facets of life other than the pursuit of that goal. We discuss Emily’s body adjustments, preparation for big days, weeks and events, last minute changes in plans, biggest lessons learned in life and the mountains as her mindset and motivation shifts through the year as the goal moves closer. Emily has been a friend for several years now and it is always a pleasure to have a deep conversation. She was one of the first guests on the podcast in 2020 sharing how she kept motivated when the world shut down. You can keep up with Emily's adventures and musings on Instagram. If you liked this episode, please pass it along to someone who could benefit from Emily's wise words. You can connect with me @cactusmoose, gregveregin.com or cactusmoose@protonmail.com | |||
| E146: My Javelina Jundred experience | 04 Nov 2024 | 01:33:03 | |
Thank you for listening! Today's episode is a neat twist where my coach, Sarah, interviews me about my experience running the 100 miler at Javelina Jundred on October 26-27, 2024, in Fountain Hills, Arizona. We cover a variety of topics including the format of the race, how I felt leading up to it, what clothing and gear I wore, what worked and didn't, and some key takeaways. It was the hottest Javelina on record, with temperatures in the triple digits out on the course. Nearly half of the entrants to the 100 mile and 100 kilometer races did not finish, mostly due to issues resulting from the heat. It was a fun day to be out on trails to test myself: much was learned. I'm profoundly grateful to all the staff and volunteers at Aravaipa Running, the crews and supporters who came out, Maricopa County parks, and to my pacers and crew. A big thanks goes out to Sarah, Tony, Nicole, Jen, Lindsay, Heidi, Elly, Kearstin, Mike, Lee, Jubilee, Tristan, Matt, Joe, Julian and Adam. Some of the highlights of the race are being surprised by my friend Tony, who flew in to see Nicole and pace me; a delicious burger at Jackass Junction from Julian; sharing miles with Jon and Elly; loop 4 with Tony and loop 5 with Sarah; Nicole popping my blisters before loop 4 by headlamp. It was a huge adventure! The burning question... will I run Javelina again? Well, tune in today to find out the answer to that question! Connect with me on Instagram or cactusmoose@protonmail.com for questions, comments and guest suggestions. I'm excited to have some interviews in the queue for the next few months! | |||
| E145: Death and Rebirth with bat medicine | 14 Oct 2024 | 00:17:00 | |
Thank you for listening today, friends! It's been hot out here in the desert as I acclimatize for Javelina Jundred in just a couple more weeks. The inspiration for this episode came from an experience last week: bats were raiding the hummingbird feeder! I've rarely seen bats, or a bat, in my life: definitely less times than I can count on one hand. It was a neat experience, and I explored the deeper meaning behind a bat encounter to satisfy my curiosity. Bats are about death and rebirth, a prescient omen with the change of seasons underway, daylight savings approaching, autumn harvests in full swing, and Hallowe'en on the horizon. Listen in for the message bat shares with us and for some musings on how that can be translated into reflection for your current experience. As always you can contact me at cactusmoose@protonmail with questions, comments and guest suggestions. We're looking forward to some more interviews and discussions in the remainder of 2024. | |||
| E144: Navigating setbacks | 10 Oct 2024 | 00:16:09 | |
Thank you for listening today, friends! I've had some setbacks the past couple of weeks, and I thought it would be worthwhile to share what I've done to process and move past their occurrence. It can be a challenge when things don't go how you anticipated, but there can be magic on the other side of what's been blocked. | |||