Outside Podcast

After Lawlor Coe lost his brother Hunter to tragedy, he did everything he could to avoid his pain. Then he laced up his joggers and began to run. At first, it was to elude his grief. But over time, as he began to log miles and miles, he found that the physical suffering he was enduring out on the trail helped him find his way to peace, and then back to joy. He was no longer running from his sorrow, from his anger, but toward a new sense of purpose. And along with the rest of his family, he found a way to honor Hunter’s life and the characteristics that made him one hell of a brother, son, and friend: by creating a fund that supports groups offering transformative experiences for young people in need of mental health support. And what Lawlor found in his runs and fundraising efforts is that after anger and sorrow is all used up, the only thing left to do is run toward love.

In this engaging dialogue, Professor Kevin Dawson, a UC Merced historian specializing in the Atlantic world and African diaspora, discusses the often-overlooked contributions of Black surfers to the sport. He emphasizes how surfing connects him to a rich African aquatic heritage and shares personal stories that reveal the joy and complexity of riding the waves. Dawson also reflects on a humorous encounter with Jason Momoa and delves into the historical layers of surfing tied to the Atlantic slave trade, showcasing the interplay of joy and sorrow within these waters.

Cindell Dale, a pioneer Grand Canyon river guide since the 1980s, shares her adventurous journey through the waters of the iconic Big Ditch. She reflects on the deep spiritual connection formed with nature and the unique bond between guides and their boats, like her beloved dory, Ticaboo. Cindell discusses the challenges and life lessons learned from navigating whitewater, particularly for women breaking through gender barriers in a male-dominated industry. Her heartfelt stories celebrate empowerment, community, and the transformative magic of the Grand Canyon.

In this conversation, Chelsea Sodaro, a professional triathlete and the Ironman World Champion of 2022, opens up about her journey through athletic excellence and personal challenges, including postpartum depression. She discusses the importance of community support among female athletes and how it fosters motivation and representation. Chelsea also shares her insights on mental resilience, advocating for wellness in sports, and the significance of gear in triathlons. Her candid reflections highlight the balance between physical endurance and mental health.

Zack Courts and Ari Henning, motorcycle gurus and YouTube stars from RevZilla, embark on a hilariously absurd 400-mile minibike journey inspired by the film 'Dumb and Dumber.' They share tales of discomfort and mechanical woes, revealing the comedic chaos of their adventure. From run-ins with police to their viral encounter with the film's cast, their story highlights the deep friendship forged through shared challenges. Expect laughs as they embrace the ridiculousness of life on two wheels!

Tony Cavalero, known for his roles in "The Righteous Gemstones" and "School of Rock," shares his journey from Hollywood struggles to outdoor adventures. He reminisces about his Boy Scout days and the healing power of nature in his recovery from addiction. The conversation dives into the surprising connections between comedy and personal growth, detailing memorable outdoor experiences during filming and the joys of rekindling passions. Cavalero's vibrant anecdotes reveal how the outdoors intersect with creativity and resilience.

In this lively discussion, Alex Honnold, the renowned professional rock climber famous for his breathtaking free solo ascent of El Capitan, shares insights into conquering fear. He reveals how mental preparation and support from the climbing community play crucial roles in achieving extraordinary goals. Honnold reflects on the humorous challenges of balancing fame with family life during his adventures. With personal anecdotes and gripping stories, he inspires listeners to discern real fears and pursue their dreams in the great outdoors.

Sierra Schlag, a professional skier and filmmaker, delves into her biracial identity and the cathartic power of skiing. She shares how her Japanese heritage shaped her experiences with bullying and cultural dislocation. From the anxieties of mogul skiing to the liberating freedom of the slopes, Sierra describes her journey of self-discovery and acceptance. The conversation also explores the complexities of belonging and community in the outdoors, showing how skiing became a vehicle for healing and embracing her roots.

Join magician David Blaine, known for his jaw-dropping endurance stunts, and Diana Nyad, the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida unassisted, as they delve into the art of extreme endurance. They share riveting anecdotes, exploring the intersection of fear and mental strength in their extraordinary feats. From breath control techniques to the psychological challenges of performances, this engaging conversation highlights how artistry and resilience define the limits of human potential.

David Litt, a former senior speechwriter for Obama and bestselling author, shares his amusing journey of learning to surf during the pandemic. He recounts his chaotic lessons alongside his contrasting brother-in-law, sparking unexpected camaraderie despite their differences. The conversation explores how surfing serves as a lens for understanding cultural divides, emphasizes the importance of embracing fear for personal growth, and highlights the power of dialogue in bridging divides through joy and shared experiences.