I Could Never Do That

  In April 2017, Helen Susannah Webb became the first visually impaired female athlete to complete Ironman South Africa. Born with a genetic condition that results in sun sensitivity and visual impairment, Webb knew that if she ever had the lucky opportunity to race in the United States, she wanted experienced American, Caroline Gaynor, to be her guide. They got their chance this past October when Webb was selected as one of only five physically impaired athletes to compete at the Ironman World Championships in KONA! Caroline and Helen didn't meet until race week, but their "Ironman Blind Date" (pun totally intended) was a huge success!  No Ironman race is without drama and Caroline and Helen certainly had their fair share of those moments. They talk about the highs and lows of their race and, ultimately, what they both learned from an event of this magnitude!     Caroline's Blog and Kona Race Report  Resources for Visually Impaired Athletes and Guides Ironman World Championship Website   Theme Music: ”Aitech" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

From Susan's Website: They were unlikely friends. She was a young, overweight college professor with a pack-a-day habit and a bad attitude. He was her boss, and an accomplished Ironman triathlete. She was a whiner, he was a hardass. He had histogether, she most assuredly did not. Yet Susan and Carlos shared a deep and abiding friendship that traversed life, sport, illness, death, and everything in between. Amusing and poignant, Life’s Too Short To Go So F*cking Slow is about running and triathlon, growth and heartbreak, and an epic friendship that went the distance. In this interview with Author, Susan Lacke, we talk about the important role Carlos played in her life at a time when pretty much everything around her was falling apart. She shares some humorous "dumbass" moments in her own triathlon journey and why, no matter what, it's important to challenge and surround yourself with people who push you to be a better version of yourself than you ever thought possible.  Velopress Book Page Susan Lacke - Twitter Susan Lacke - Author Page Susan Lacke - Website   Theme Music: ·Aitech" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

  We hit the triathlon jackpot this with Coach Matt Dixon, Founder and Head Coach of Purplepatch Fitness! Dixon has worked with professional triathletes and champions like Tim Reed, Meredith Kessler, Jesse Thomas, Sarah Piampiano, Kevin Collington and many more! Do those names sound familiar? Of course they do because these are just some of the pros you see at the top of the podium at major races and World Championships.   So, yeah, this former professional athlete knows a thing or two about the sport of triathlon and producing high quality results. In his new book, "Fast Track Triathlete," Dixon offers his plan of attack for high performance in long-course triathlon—without sacrificing work or life. Developed for busy professionals with demanding schedules, the Fast-Track Triathlete program makes your PR possible in Ironman®, Ironman 70.3®, Rev3, and Challenge triathlon in about 10 hours a week. You simply don't have to bury yourself or commit "social suicide" to be a successful triathlete. We talk about planning your week, scaling workouts for travel and other interruptions, remaining flexible and being very HONEST about the time that you do have so that you don't compromise the other pillars of performance: Functional Strength, Recovery, Sleep and Nutrition. Triathlon should enhance your life, not inhibit it. Sound too good to be true? Take a listen and buy Matt's book today. It comes complete with training advice, race day guidance, functional strength workouts and sample training plans! Fast Track Triathlete Purplepatch Fitness Website Matt Dixon - Twitter  Purplepatch Fitness - Facebook Purplepatch Fitness - Instagram Purplepatch Fitness - YouTube All Rights Reserved Theme Music: ”Aitech" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

This week’s guest is Austin based journalist Pam LeBlanc. I’m not gonna lie, she kinda has my dream gig...getting paid to try new sports, activities, hikes and other crazy adventures.   If you live around Central Texas, you’ve, no doubt, followed Pam in the Austin American Statesman and her popular “Fit City” Column and Blog.  Pam is the real deal and by that I mean she was actually raised in Austin -- What? A local?? Even if you’re not familiar with Pam and her work, you will NO doubt, gain a tremendous amount of respect FOR her and inspiration FROM her. Because, if you think Pam was born a natural and gifted athlete, think again. She talks openly about her awkward years and low self-esteem that held her back from doing many things. It wasn’t all trophies and finish lines for this woman growing up. Good Lord no...She developed courage in spite of her fear...and it’s that courage that keeps pushing her to try new things whether it’s running a naked 5K, rappelling off a building or even writing her first novel… None of these take athletic prowess. They take BRAVERY and Pam LeBlanc musters it every day. After hiking the John Muir trail for 15 days, Pam decided to start writing about her “Year of Adventure.” After listening to this, I think you’ll agree that Pam has had a LIFE of adventure.   Fit City Blog Austin American Statesman Fit City - Facebook Fit City Instagram Fit City Twitter Theme Music: "Aitech" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

This week, we throw the phrase “I Could Never Do That” right out the window! I’m affectionately referring to this episode as my conversation with the bad and the smart couple, Lesley Paterson and Simon Marshall, PhD. Lesley is a 3X World Champion in off-road triathlon, an Ironman Champion, pro mountain biker and endurance coach. Her husband, Simon, is a former professor of family and preventive medicine at University of California, San Diego and a professor of sport and exercise psychology at San Diego State University. Currently, he’s the performance psychologist for the BMC Professional Race Team...He’s also the co-author of the book we’re talking about today… Brave Athlete...Calm the F*ck Down and Rise to the Occasion is a manual for your brain that addresses 13 of the most common mental conundrums all athletes face in their everyday training and racing (regardless of ability level). Chapters are devoted to things like: Having Thoughts and Feelings You Don’t Want Learning to Embrace The Suck Hardening the F*ck Up Having Low Athlete Self-Esteem Issues Around Food and Weight Resisting the Urge To Quit Dealing with Injury ...and more...  The Brave Athlete shows you how to feel the fear (because we all feel it) and jump anyway, opening the door for you to enjoy your sport with more confidence, grit and gratitude. VeloPress BraveHeart Coaching Lesley Paterson Xterra World Championships Ironman   Theme Music: "Aitech" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

  In this episode of "I Could Never Do That," I interview singer/songwriters Susan Gibson (who wrote the Dixie Chicks "Wide Open Spaces") and Jana Pochop.  They discuss their craft of songwriting and how, even during the toughest of times, they continue to curate new ideas and songs that inspire, teach and heal. Songwriting is, no doubt, an endurance sport. It takes a tremendous amount of talent, passion and strength to build those muscles of creativity. In many ways, they are OUR voice. Music heals. Music soothes. Music changes lives. I could never write a life-changing song...Thankfully, they can. Thank you, Susan and Jana!   Links: Jana Pochop Susan Gibson Dixie Chicks Girl Guitar Austin Taylor Swift Mary Chapin Carpenter Theme Music: "Aitech" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Distance Running Legend, Beardsley, is an America hero, having won a string of marathons in the early 1980s, including the London Marathon in 1981 and Grandma's Marathon in both 1981 and 1982. He's most famous ironically, though, for losing a marathon: The infamous "Duel in the Sun" 1982 Boston Marathon, where he and Alberto Salazar went step for step for 26.2 Miles. It was a colossal race finish that left an indelible imprint on the minds and hearts of running fans forever, truly illustrating the depths of competition and racing with all your heart until the very last step.    A Hero's Journey is never complete, however, without adversity and tragedy. speaks openly about multiple accidents that left him physically broken and addicted to pain killers for many years. He also talks about the recent loss of his son and the strong faith that he credits for his abounding positive attitude in the face of despair. His days of competitive running may be over, but these days, he and his wife, Jill, run their own daily marathon as owners of Lake Bemidji Bed and Breakfast and the Beardsley Fishing Guide Service in Bemidji, Minnesota.  Together, they have found purpose, happiness and tranquility. This is a conversation about believing in yourself, following your dreams, holding your loved ones close, and never giving up hope.  Thank you, and Jill Links: Beardsley Website Lake Bemidji Bed and Breakfast Beardsley Fishing Guide Service Video of 1982 "Duel in the Sun" Finish Theme Music: "Aitech" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Marcus Cook lives by the quotes, "Do Something New Every Day" because "You Never Know What You're Preparing Yourself For."  Two years ago, inspired by the dying wish of a friend, then 500lb Marcus Cook made a drastic change. He knew if he didn't act quickly, he wouldn't be around to see his kids grow up and have families of their own. In September 2015, Cook had gastric bypass surgery with renowned bariatric surgeon, Dr. Garth Davis, in Houston, Texas.   And, less than two years later, Marcus crossed the finish line of his first full Ironman! How was this possible? Marcus credits two things throughout this conversation: 1) The people in his life that were willing to help him along the way 2) Taking small steps - literally. For Marcus, it was walking just 20 minutes a day. That's all he could do at first. Well, that 20 minutes daily walk turned into one mile, two miles, three miles and eventually led to triathlons, marathons and Ironmans - all in less than two years.  These days, Marcus travels the country and continues to chronicle his efforts at BigtoLittle.com and other social media channels.  Most recently, Marcus played the role of hero along with many other Houstonians who spent the days after the hurricane rescuing people in boats by the hundreds and feeding people by the thousands. He's quick to say that the "old Marcus" couldn't have done this. His story may center around going from "Big to Little," but to me, Marcus Cook has a heart of gold that's gone from "Big to Bigger."  This is his story.  Links for Marcus Cook: Facebook Instagram Website Theme Music: ”Aitech" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

The Prothro Family Wines Website says it best:  "Life is about the experiences you have and the stories you tell... and the wine you drink." Ronda and Bruce Prothro love wine. They love the work, the science, the chemistry, and the art of creating a classic wine, giving people a full and well-rounded experience with each sip.  They first started making wine together in their garage back in 1991 in Los Gatos, CA, picking, pressing, mixing, stirring, fermenting, and bottling...they did it all.  It was hard work, indeed, but so very rewarding when they got to tastes the fruits of their labor (literally) and share it with others. This passion continued until 1998 when their passion for making children took over! As they write on their website, "With two small kids and demanding careers, they diverted their time and attention to life without winemaking. With friends and families, they drank the last of their vintages, gave their equipment to another home winemaker, and put their dreams on hold." And now, almost 20 years later, Bruce and Ronda have recently resurrected their dream and embarked on a journey to find a facility where they could make wine, not as home winemakers but, this time, as a new business venture. Sourcing from the best vineyards in Napa Valley and with the guidance of a consulting winemaker, they expanded their heritage as home winemakers into Prothro Family Wines; a brand focused on small lot production from carefully selected vineyards."   If you love wine (and who doesn't), you'll love listening to their stories and descriptions of what a great bottle of wine means to them. You'll learn about the wine industry and the blending process. Most importantly, you'll learn that, behind Prothro Family Wines, is a wonderful couple that is just as passionate about winemaking as they were as young newlyweds. Each bottle of Prothro Family Wines tells a story. It is my hope that you will order a bottle (or case) of Prothro Family Wines and create your own memories and stories to share for years to come.   Prothro Family Wines is joining many businesses from across the nation who are providing funds to help with the recovery efforts and rebuilding lives. We will donate 5 percent on all new orders from the sale of our newly released red wines from now until October 31st. This 5 percent discount is on top of the discount you receive for being a Wine Club member or for multi-bottle purchases. However, you can elect to donate your Wine Club discount or multi-bottle discount to the Hurricane Harvey relief fund. Social Media Links: Website: Prothro Family Wines Instagram Facebook Twitter Theme Music: ”Aitech" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

This week’s interview subject is just as endearing, whimsical and unique as the adventure she’s on. Most of us have heard of “Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego” or “Where in the world is Matt Lauer,” right? A lot of us are also familiar with the Flat Stanley cartoon that elementary aged kids send around the world to learn about travel and geography. Well, my friend Kusko has taken these two concepts of travel and discovery to the next level...for charity...with her Happy Tiger Tales Adventure! I first started seeing these crazy social media pics about a year ago. Here was my adult friend dressed in a furry tiger costume in front of the Eiffel Tower, on a real African safari, in Barcelona, and so many other places.   Getting these often humorous and playful shots is Kusko’s way of, as she says, “Connecting humanity through happiness.” People laugh, they hug the tiger, they take photos with the tiger and they take photos of the tiger. Bottom line - it connects people and it brings defenses down. She calls these shots, “a tiger nab,” because so much of what happens surrounding these hilarious photosis often so organic and spontaneous. During her travels last year, she dreamed up a way of giving back-  an "around the world" adventure race for the entire month of September. Thanks to Kusko and the generosity of many, over 150 kids at Dell Children’s Medical Center of Central Texas are also following along with Kusko and "Tig the Tiger" with their fully donated Lil' Explorer kits that include virtual reality glasses, a t-shirt, travel journal, bracelet and more. Not only do they get to participate in the Happy Tiger Tales adventure race, but they also get to learn about each destination and make requests of Tig the Tiger along the way.    Want to follow along and see what crazy shenanigans Tig is up to? Dare to venture a guess where she's headed next? These photos are guaranteed to enlighten, inspire and make you smile. Facebook: Happy Tiger Tales Instagram:  @HappyTigerTales GoFundMe: To donate to the Lil' Explorer Kits  Let the adventure begin with Just Kusko - aka - Tig the Tiger   Theme Music: ”Aitech" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/