What's The Rusch

This is Part 2 of Rebecca’s conversation with Jay Petervary, recorded just days after his 13th attempt at the Iditarod Trail Invitational (ITI) in Alaska. If you haven’t listened to Part 1: Ride Forward: The Art of Endurance, go back and catch the pregame episode for the full story and context. In this follow-up, Jay is fresh off the trail, still in Alaska, reflecting on what it means to show up for a race with big goals only to have the weather and trail conditions force a different outcome. He shares honestly about the decision to stop short of the 1,000-mile finish, the mental and physical toll of pushing against nature, and the humility required to accept when the trail has other plans. Jay and Rebecca explore the tension between relentless drive and deep listening, the wisdom that comes from decades of endurance, and how letting go can sometimes be the bravest move of all.Key Topics:The reality of facing unpredictable conditions on the ITI and making the call to stop before the finishHow Jay’s mindset has evolved after years of racing, and what it means to listen to the trail and your own limitsThe emotional aftermath of a race that doesn’t go as planned, and the lessons found in disappointmentThe ongoing process of recovery—physically, mentally, and emotionally—after high-stakes adventureThe value of reflection, community, and honest storytelling in the wake of challengeMemorable Moments:Jay describes the moment he realized the ITI would not go as planned, and the internal dialogue that followedReflections on the difference between “old Jay” and the wisdom that comes with experienceHonest talk about the pressure to perform, the expectations we set for ourselves, and the courage it takes to walk awayReflection Questions:When have you had to change course, even when you were deeply committed to a goal?What does it look like to honor your limits without losing your drive?How do you process disappointment and find meaning in the aftermath?Resources & Links:Part 1: Ride Forward: The Art of EnduranceJay's websiteJay's InstagramFat PursuitIditarod Trail InvitationalConnect with Rebecca:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInSubstackBlood Road

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch welcomes ultra-endurance cycling legend Jay Petervary for a conversation that moves far beyond finish lines and records. Jay, known for pioneering bikepacking, setting iconic records on the Tour Divide and Iditarod Trail Invitational, and founding events like Fat Pursuit, opens up about the deeper motivations that drive his journey. Together, Rebecca and Jay explore the art of embracing uncertainty, the quiet power of simplicity, and the importance of community in endurance sports. Jay’s story is a testament to resilience, mentorship, and the freedom found in letting go of perfection.Show Notes:In this episode, Rebecca and Jay explore:The evolution from adventure racing to redefining ultra-endurance cyclingHow Jay’s “Ride Forward” philosophy shapes his approach to life, sport, and mentorshipThe role of adaptability and continuous learning in both racing and personal growthWhy building community and sharing knowledge matter more than medalsThe mental and emotional challenges of self-supported racing—and the lessons found in solitudeGear innovation: how tinkering and necessity led Jay to revolutionize bikepacking equipmentThe origins and spirit behind the Fat Pursuit and Gravel Pursuit eventsNavigating setbacks, uncertainty, and the unexpected with curiosity and graceTransformative Insights:The value of “perfect is good enough” in high-stakes environmentsHow letting go of rigid expectations opens space for discovery and joyThe importance of mentorship and inviting others into the wild unknownWhy the most meaningful achievements are often the ones shared with communityVulnerable Moments:Jay reflects on the discomfort of public recognition and the challenge of self-definitionRebecca and Jay discuss the tension between solitude and connection in endurance pursuitsHonest stories about failure, recalibration, and the courage to keep moving forwardPractical Wisdom:Approaching adversity as an opportunity for growth, not just a hurdle to overcomeSimple practices for staying grounded during long, uncertain journeysThe power of curiosity and play in sustaining motivationPersonal Growth:Jay’s ongoing journey to balance ambition with presenceRebecca’s reflections on learning from Jay’s mentorship and friendshipHow both have found meaning in letting go of what no longer serves themHelpful Links:Jay Petervary’s Website: https://www.jaypetervary.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay_petervary/Fat Pursuit: https://www.fatpursuit.com/Gravel Pursuit: https://www.gravelpursuit.com/Iditarod Trail Invitational Sponsor:Support What’s the RuschLove the show? Share it, review it, or text it to a friend who needs it.Connect with Rebecca:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInSubstackBlood Road

In the final episode of our birthday series, Rebecca Rusch explores how timeless wisdom and cutting-edge science come together to help us grow, heal, and perform at our best. Through conversations with world-class thinkers, athletes, and teachers, this episode dives into the practices, mindsets, and research that bridge the old and the new—reminding us that the most powerful tools for transformation are often found where tradition and innovation meet.Featured Guests & Clips:Andy WalsheAndy shares stories from the world of elite performance, describing how uncertainty, mindset, and ancient selection rituals are used alongside modern data to push athletes beyond their limits. He reflects on the importance of learning, shifting expectations, and the untapped frontier of the mind.Florence WilliamsFlorence discusses her research into awe, resilience, and the healing power of nature. She explains how ancient practices of noticing beauty and connecting to the natural world are now being validated by science—and why we need both the data and the reminders to seek out what our ancestors knew intuitively.Teddi DeanTeddi, a former pro skateboarder turned mindfulness teacher, explores how meditation and Buddhist philosophy help us build a relationship with our minds and bodies. He shares practical wisdom on sitting with discomfort, tuning into our emotions, and using heart-centered practices to transform daily life.Michael GervaisMichael, high-performance psychologist and host of Finding Mastery, reflects on the path from high performance to true mastery. He discusses how ancient insights and modern psychology both point us toward self-knowledge, purpose, and connection as the foundation for a meaningful life.Key Themes:The intersection of ancient wisdom and modern science in personal growth and performanceMindset, uncertainty, and the power of learningThe healing and transformative potential of nature, awe, and mindfulnessThe importance of self-knowledge, purpose, and communityJoin the Conversation:How do you blend ancient wisdom and modern science in your own life? What practices or research have helped you grow? Share your thoughts with Rebecca on social or by leaving a review.Thank you for being part of this journey and for celebrating a year of meaningful conversations with us. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe to What’s the Rusch wherever you listen to podcasts.Click the links below to listen to the full episodes mentioned in today's podcast:Andy Walshe on the Future of PerformanceFlorence Williams on Healing through Nature and HeartbreakTeddi Dean on Identity, Meditation, and Purposeful PacingMichael Gervais on the Dark Side of SuccessConnect with Rebecca:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInSubstackBlood Road

In this second episode of our special birthday series, Rebecca Rusch explores the theme of redefining success and identity. Over the past year, What’s the Rusch has become a space for honest conversations about what it means to grow, change, and find purpose beyond the finish line. This episode features stories from athletes and leaders who have reimagined what achievement looks like, let go of old expectations, and found new meaning in their journeys.Featured Guests & Clips:Caroline BuchananCaroline opens up about building her identity both on and off the bike, navigating reinvention, and learning to define success on her own terms. She shares how she’s found purpose beyond podiums by mentoring others and embracing new challenges.Kate CourtneyKate reflects on what it means to define success beyond the podium. She shares how she’s learned to measure achievement by effort and growth, not just results, and how her work with the She Sends Foundation is helping to expand opportunities and redefine what winning looks like for herself and the next generation.Allen LimAllen shares how growing up as part of an immigrant family in Los Angeles shaped his sense of identity and belonging. He reflects on how the bicycle, the Olympic movement, and the power of community helped him redefine what success means—not just as winning, but as connection, dignity, and inspiring others.Alexandera HouchinAlexandera talks about how her identity has evolved and so has her sense of responsibility. She shares how her early drive to right past injustices and give voice to her family story has shifted toward embracing her own presence and authenticity, and creating space for others to do the same.Key Themes:Redefining what it means to succeedLetting go of old expectations and embracing new identitiesThe power of community, mentorship, and giving backFinding purpose and meaning beyond traditional measures of achievement Join the Conversation:How has your definition of success changed? What does identity mean to you? Share your thoughts with Rebecca on social or by leaving a review.· Thank you for being part of this journey and for celebrating a year of meaningful conversations with us. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe to What’s the Rusch wherever you listen to podcasts.Connect with Rebecca:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInSubstackBlood Road

Episode Summary:To celebrate one year of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch brings together some of the most honest and courageous moments from the past year. This special episode is all about embracing vulnerability, slowing down, letting go, and sharing the real stories behind the highlight reels. Rebecca introduces and reflects on powerful clips from four guests who have opened up about their struggles, growth, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.Featured Guests & Clips:Stacy SimsStacy shares her experience of moving to New Zealand, facing postpartum depression, and reaching a breaking point that led to a suicide attempt. She talks about the importance of support systems, rebuilding, and the need to reach out for help—even when you feel you have to be stoic.Jess KimuraJess opens up about the loss of her partner, the overwhelming grief that followed, and how she found herself again through surfing and allowing herself to be vulnerable. She discusses the pressure to appear tough in her sport and the relief of finally letting herself be seen.Rush SturgesRush recounts a harrowing experience in Nepal, surviving a massive earthquake while on a river expedition. He describes the trauma and PTSD that followed, the physical symptoms he endured, and the long journey of healing through therapy, mindfulness, and learning to listen to his nervous system.Chris BurkardChris reflects on a transformative darkness retreat and the power of being vulnerable with others. He shares how opening up to a stranger after the retreat changed his perspective, and how he’s learning to bring more honesty and connection into his everyday life—not just during extreme adventures.Key Themes:The strength in sharing what’s real, even when it’s uncomfortableNavigating grief, trauma, and mental health challengesThe importance of support, community, and self-compassionRedefining what it means to be strong and successfulConnect with Rebecca:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInSubstackBlood RoadBrain Storm PodcastJoin the Conversation:What does vulnerability mean to you? How have you learned to let go or ask for help? Share your thoughts with Rebecca on social or by leaving a review.Thank you for being part of this journey and for celebrating a year of meaningful conversations with us. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe to What’s the Rusch wherever you listen to podcasts.

Episode SummaryIn this episode, Rebecca welcomes Dr. Jaimie Lusk, a Marine Corps veteran, clinical psychologist, and endurance athlete, whose life’s work bridges the worlds of trauma recovery, adventure, and community healing. Their conversation moves beyond the surface of resilience, exploring what it means to truly thrive after survival. Together, they unpack the messy, beautiful process of listening to your inner wisdom, honoring the body’s need for rest, and finding clarity through movement and nature. This episode is a deep dive into the art of staying open, even after life cracks you wide open, and the power of community in the healing journey.Show NotesRebecca and Dr. Lusk explore:The difference between surviving and thriving and how to recognize when you’re ready for more than just getting byHow Jaimie’s experience as a Marine and psychologist shapes her approach to trauma, moral injury, and complex griefThe role of nature, movement, and adventure in building resilience and self-trustWhy healing is never a solo endeavor, and how community and purpose fuel recoveryThe importance of tuning into your “inner knower” and honoring intuition, even when it runs counter to external expectationsPractical ways to integrate mind-body practices, from breathwork to outdoor experiences, into daily lifeTransformative InsightsHealing is a practice, not a destination—one that requires both fierce compassion and honest self-reflectionSometimes the nervous system needs space and movement before words can landTrue resilience is about staying open and choosing connection, even after hardshipThe “script” of toughness can drown out our real needs; learning to listen inward is a radical actVulnerable MomentsJaimie shares her journey from the battlefield to the therapy room, and how her own healing informs her workRebecca and Jaimie reflect on the challenges of letting go of high-performance identities to embrace rest and recoveryBoth discuss the ongoing process of moving from impenetrable strength to authentic vulnerabilityPractical WisdomHow to use nature as a co-therapist: simple ways to bring the outdoors into your healing processTools for checking in with your intuition and honoring what you need in the momentThe value of community, mentorship, and shared adventure in sustaining long-term growthPersonal GrowthJaimie’s evolution from “mud-loving kid” to Marine, psychologist, and advocate for wild resilienceRebecca’s reflections on the power of collaboration and shared values in the healing journeyHow adventure and evidence-based psychology intersect to create new pathways for thrivingHelpful LinksModern Elder Academy: Wild Resilience Retreat with Rebecca & Dr. Jaimie LuskDr. Jaimie Lusk’s WebsiteLinkedIn: Dr. Jaimie LuskPsychology Today BlogSponsorSupport What’s the RuschLove the show? Share it, review it, or text it to a friend who needs it.Connect with Rebecca RuschWebsiteInstagramLinkedInSubstackBlood RoadBrain Storm Podcast

Kaya Turski’s story isn’t just about medals or firsts, it’s about what happens when the thing you love most gets taken away, and you’re forced to meet yourself without the helmet, goggles, and identity that once felt impenetrable. Kaya shares how pain shaped her from the very beginning, starting with a catastrophic crash at 18 that led to emergency pancreatic surgery, and how a lifetime of impact, whiplash, and chronic symptoms eventually pushed her out of competition before 2018, whether she was ready or not.In this conversation, we explore what “Fly Always” really means when you can’t do your sport the way you used to, and how Kaya has rebuilt her life through honesty, values work, and learning to create space for herself and others. From the moment she told her coach, “I’m done…pull me out,” to the dark, quiet years of healing back home in Montreal, Kaya walks us through the hardest kind of courage: the kind that looks like surrender, asking for help, and choosing self-care on an 8/10 pain day.Show NotesIn this episode, Rebecca and Kaya explore:How rollerblading and skateparks became Kaya’s foundation for freestyle—and why she taught herself to ski at 17 by taking the Greyhound to Whistler every dayThe misconception that elite freestyle athletes are fearless—and why fear is part of staying alive on “hundred-foot kickers”The difference between chosen pain (growth) and unchosen pain (life, injury, heartbreak)—and why the second one is where “the real work” beginsThe crash that sliced Kaya’s pancreas in half, the ICU in San Francisco, and being told to leave skiing behind before her career even beganHow chronic headaches, cumulative impacts, and undiagnosed concussions became an invisible war that forced retirement a year before 2018The moment at Worlds in Spain when Kaya finally said, “I surrender…this is enough,” and made the call to stopWhy identity can get dangerously fused to performance—and what it takes to become “more than one thing”The question Dr. Mike Gervais asked that cracked Kaya open: “Why are you here on this earth?”The real meaning of “Fly Always”: create space, take the leap, inspire—and why “creating space” starts with honestyWhat “flying” looks like now: self-care, hard conversations, sitting with pain instead of escaping it, and “standing in the center of the fire” with yourselfHow mindfulness “micro-breaks” and Rebecca’s “brain breaks” help regulate the nervous system and bring you back steadier, brighter, more presentThe six-year healing chapter: moving back to Montreal, low capacity, and rebuilding from a dark period—one phone call at a timeTransformative InsightsPain has layers. There’s pain that expands you (chosen) and pain that humbles you (unchosen)—and the second one asks for a different kind of strength.Identity isn’t a job title. Kaya reframes “who I am” as what she loves, what she values, and what lights her up—not just what she did in sport.“Fly Always” is a life philosophy, not a sports slogan. For Kaya, it begins with creating space (and safety) for the whole human to show up.Values work is the bridge. The journey from “be the best” to “be true” runs straight through first principles and personal philosophy.Presence is built in tiny moments. Five-minute resets and micro “slices of discipline” change the nervous system—and the way you move through your day.Vulnerable MomentsKaya relives the crash that caused pancreatic surgery at 18—and the whiplash of being told her career might be over before it started.She names the invisible suffering of chronic pain—hurting internally while the outside world encourages you to push one more year.The Worlds-in-Spain moment: “I’m done…pull me out,” and the catharsis of finally leaning in.The dark stretch after retirement—UCLA dreams, surrendering independence, moving home, and not working for six years because survival took everything.Kaya opens up about escaping pain for a long time—and then learning to sit with it, listen, and stay with herself through it.Practical WisdomTry a 5-minute reset 2–3 times a day: breathe, notice what you’re feeling, and return with a steadier pace.Build “brain breaks”: step off screens, go outside, lie down, pet the dog—then come back more regulated.If you don’t know what to do next: reach out anyway. Kaya describes the power of dropping the guard and calling someone who knows you.Practice “create space through honesty”: tell the truth about what you’re carrying—even when it’s messy.When you see someone hurting: say something simple—“I see you.” It matters more than you think.Personal GrowthKaya moves from “queen of slope style” armor to a more integrated identity—artist, nature-lover, community-builder, coach.She redefines high performance as self-care on hard days, honesty in relationships, and staying present when the body flares.Her career comes full circle: from athlete with Dr. Mike to mindset coach at Finding Mastery—turning lived experience into service.Helpful LinksKaya Turski- Kaya’s Instagram- LinkedIn:- Threads:- Team Canada bio:Finding Mastery (Dr. Michael Gervais)- About Finding Mastery (coaches/team): https://findingmastery.com/about-us/SponsorThis episode is supported by MOMENTOUSUse code RUSCH to get 35% off your first momentous subscriptionSupport What’s the RuschLove the show? Share it, review it, or text it to a friend who needs a little more space to breathe today.Connect with Rebecca RuschWebsiteInstagramLinkedInSubstackBlood RoadBrain Storm Podcast

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca welcomes explorer-author Craig Childs, a man whose life is spent listening deeply to the land. Known for tracing ancient migration routes, following water across vast deserts, flying through curtains of Virga, and biking into the darkest sky in America, Craig’s work reveals a world still full of mystery for those willing to pay attention.This conversation moves through ghost-lit writing rooms, ritual landscapes, long bike journeys, serendipity, and the internal shifts that only happen when we slow down enough to let the world permeate us. Together Craig and Rebecca explore why immersion, not arrival, is what transforms us.Show Notes: Immersion as the Pathway to TruthWhy Craig must be in a place—feeling the ground, light, wind—for the story to reveal itselfHow walking ancient routes or biking across deserts becomes a form of listeningThe difference between reading landscape through photographs vs. letting it enter your bodyHemingway’s House & the Ghost of InfluenceCraig’s three-week writing residency in Ernest Hemingway’s preserved home in IdahoThe strange, creative tension of living where Hemingway lived—and even feeling watchedHow inhabiting another writer’s space reshaped Craig’s awareness of language and simplicityEnergy, Memory & Mystery in the Natural WorldThe ineffable sensations some landscapes hold—ritual sites, ancient paths, places marked by lossHow intention sharpens awareness of what we cannot explainRebecca’s story of biking 1,200 miles along the Ho Chi Minh Trail to reach her father’s crash site, and the unexpected peace found thereThe Wild Dark: Riding Into the NightCraig’s decision to bike—not hike or drive—from the brightest sky (Las Vegas) to the darkest sky in NevadaUnderstanding the Bortle Scale, and how each night revealed an entirely different skyWhat humanity loses when we stop looking upward—and the questions the night sky asks of usCreative Curiosity & How Stories Choose UsHow Craig selects each new book subject: serendipity, timing, emotional bandwidth, personal readinessWhy some stories (such as those rooted in trauma) demand discernment, and why he sometimes says noMoving from archaeology, to animals, to geology, and now to mountain lionsInternal Exploration & the Dialogue WithinThe constant internal conversations that unfold when moving across landscapesHow physical exertion becomes a gateway to reflection, memory, and presenceWhy writing is the spark—not the purpose—behind many of Craig’s journeysModern Disconnection & What We’re LosingCraig’s experience witnessing a death on a transatlantic flight and realizing how few people noticedThe shrinking spaces for eye contact, curiosity, and shared humanityThe closing-in effect of modern life compared to the expansive awareness offered by natureTransformative InsightsImmersion creates understanding—arrival alone does not.Landscapes hold memory and meaning that reveal themselves when we’re quiet enough to notice.Awe is not optional; it is a human requirement.The night sky is one of our oldest teachers, and losing it means losing half our questions.Serendipity is often guidance—if we’re paying attention.Vulnerable MomentsRebecca shares the emotional unraveling of reaching her father’s crash site after a long bike journey.Craig opens up about choosing not to pursue certain book topics because the emotional toll would be too great.Both explore the discomfort of modern loneliness and the desire for deeper connection.Craig reflects on being swept into the rush of freelance life—and how he finds his way back to slower rhythms.Practical WisdomUse nature as your reset—it requires no preparation or perfection, only presence.Let your curiosity—not your agenda—shape your explorations.Build spaciousness into your life: dawn light, unstructured time, long walks, quiet moments.Notice what your senses are telling you; they’re often wiser than your plans.When life feels rushed, create friction by slowing down—sit on a boulder, look at the sky, breathe.Personal GrowthCraig’s evolution from writing about ancient worlds to exploring the immediate, living stories around him.Rebecca’s ongoing shift from “rusher” to someone who seeks and protects stillness.The power of long journeys—literal and internal—to peel away armor.How exploration helps us remember our humanity and place in the larger world.Helpful LinksCraig ChildsWebsite: https://www.torreyhouse.org/craig-childsInstagram: @wandercragSupport What’s the RuschIf this episode opened something in you, share it with a friend, leave a review, or post your favorite moment. Your support helps bring deeper, more meaningful conversations into the world.Connect with Rebecca RuschWebsiteInstagramLinkedInSubstackBlood RoadBrain Storm Podcast

In this episode, Rebecca welcomes her friend, author, and legendary peak-performance researcher Steven Kotler for a conversation that weaves together science, sport, creativity, and the deeper human quest for what’s possible. Steven has spent decades decoding flow, the neurobiological state where we feel our best and perform our best, but this conversation goes far beyond definitions.Together, Rebecca and Steven explore why flow is accessible to everyone, what happens when you chase it too hard, and why recovery is a form of grit. Steven also opens up about the period of his life when Lyme disease left him bedridden, suicidal, and stripped of his identity, and how an unexpected moment in the ocean became the spark that rebuilt everything.This is a conversation about curiosity, resilience, and how the smallest actions, walking the dog, doodling on a page, stepping outside, can literally help us find our way back to ourselves.Show NotesIn this episode, Rebecca and Steven explore:Understanding Flow & Peak PerformanceWhat flow actually is from a neurobiological perspectiveWhy flow follows focus—and the 28 triggers that bring us into the present momentThe different forms of flow: individual, interpersonal, group, and communitasWhy flow operates on a four-stage cycle (and why you can’t be in flow all the time)Chasing Flow vs. Working With ItThe danger of using risk as a flow triggerHow novelty and creativity create safer, more sustainable pathways into flowWhy action sports athletes often “break things” chasing that feelingHow micro-changes—like interpreting terrain creatively—can upgrade performance without increasing dangerRecovery, Afterglow & the Science of the Come-DownWhat happens in the brain after a massive flow stateWhy a big flow day almost guarantees a low-performance day right afterThe neurochemical crash that mimics the comedown of recreational drugsHow to use healthy recovery habits to shorten the “cost of flow”Steven's Journey Through IllnessSteven recounts the years when Lyme disease left him unable to walk across a roomThe suicidal moment when he believed he’d become a lifelong burdenThe friend who insisted he go surfing—and the wave that triggered a full-blown, mystical macro-flow stateHow repeated exposure to flow helped reboot his immune system and rebuild his lifeWhat neuro-immunology reveals about the connection between flow, healing, and homeostasisFlow, Longevity & Life DesignWhy immersion in nature is one of the most potent flow triggersThe role of action sports and outdoor movement in mental health and agingWhy walking—even slowly—is medicine for the nervous system and the brainHow Steven teaches older adults to park-ski using creativity instead of riskTransformative InsightsFlow is trainable. With the right structure, most people can increase flow by 70–80% within eight weeks.Recovery is a grit skill. High performers burn out not from doing too much—but from never shutting down.Creativity microdosing between tasks keeps you in flow and prevents ego spikes that knock you out of it.Tragedy can be a teleportation chamber. Sometimes the hardest experiences become the doorway to the life we wanted but couldn’t reach on our own.Movement + nature = neurobiological reset. Just 20 minutes outdoors begins to flush stress hormones and restore baseline balance.Vulnerable MomentsSteven shares in detail the physical and psychological collapse brought on by Lyme disease.Rebecca reflects on her traumatic brain injury and how losing access to movement shook her identity.Both discuss the terrifying experience of losing cognitive function—and the slow rebuild back to themselves.Steven opens up about the friends who walked him around the block when he couldn’t walk on his own.Rebecca recalls calling Steven in desperation during her recovery, and how his advice helped guide her back.Practical WisdomHow to recognize the difference between microflow and macroflowWhy doodling, sketching, or five minutes of creative play resets the brainHow to transition between tasks without “waking up the ego”Why meditation isn’t about quieting the mind—it’s about practicing returningWhy “clear goals” are a flow trigger and a cue for when to stop working for the dayHow sauna, reading, breathwork, and small rituals can switch the nervous system from drive to recoveryThe importance of training your brain before you “inflict yourself on your relationships”Personal Growth ThemesSteven’s evolution from punk-rock misfit to leading voice in applied performance neuroscienceRebecca’s rediscovery of writing and art during her concussion recovery—and the reminder to keep creativity in her life even when sport returnsThe lifelong pull of curiosity as a survival mechanism and a drive toward masteryEmbracing novelty, humility, and the willingness to start over again and againHelpful LinksSteven Kotler Website: https://www.stevenkotler.com/Flow Research Collective: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com/Books by Steven Kotler: The Rise of Superman, The Art of Impossible, Gnar Country, and moreZen authors discussed: John Tarrant & Joan SutherlandSponsorThis episode is brought to you by What’s the Rusch, a listener-powered podcast.If today's episode sparked something in you, share it with a friend, review it, or pass it along to someone who needs a reminder that possibility is always closer than we think.Connect with Rebecca RuschWebsite Instagram LinkedIn Substack Blood Road Brain Storm Podcast

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca dives into the deep currents of creativity, purpose, and healing with legendary kayaker, filmmaker, and musician Rush Sturges. From first descents on the world’s most powerful rivers to producing award-winning films like The River Runner (on Netflix), Chasing Niagara, and Edge of the Unknown (on Disney+), Rush has lived his life on the edge of adventure and artistry. Together, he and Rebecca explore how nature, trauma, and creativity intertwine—and how slowing down can be the most radical act of all.Rush shares his journey from world champion athlete to filmmaker and mentor, the lessons learned from loss and risk, and how a devastating earthquake in Nepal reshaped his understanding of fear, nervous system health, and what it really means to live fully. This is a conversation about flow, healing, and the art of coming home to yourself.Show NotesIn this episode, Rebecca and Rush explore:Growing up at his parents’ kayak school, Otter Bar, and discovering a lifelong calling on the Grand Canyon at age 14The parallels between rivers and life—how chaos, calm, and flow teach us who we areWhat expedition kayaking reveals about presence, teamwork, and vulnerabilityThe evolution from athlete to filmmaker to musician, and the importance of building creative “teams” off the riverThe transformative impact of mentoring Indigenous youth through Ríos to Rivers and the Paddle Tribal Waters project during the historic Klamath River dam removalLessons from loss—processing death, danger, and risk in the adventure communityRush’s experience with PTSD after surviving a deadly Nepal earthquake and how it forced him to confront the limits of enduranceThe healing power of therapy, meditation, and slowing downWhy true mastery is learning to move—and to rest—with intentionTransformative InsightsThe river as teacher: Its turbulence and stillness mirror the flow of life.Healing the nervous system: How mindfulness, breathwork, and community restore balance after trauma.Creativity as connection: Music, film, and art as extensions of nature’s flow.Redefining performance: Moving from risk and recognition toward service, purpose, and self-awareness.Vulnerable MomentsRush recounts surviving a catastrophic earthquake in Nepal that triggered years of tremors and insomnia.He opens up about witnessing loss in the kayaking community and how grief shaped his view of risk.Rebecca shares her own recovery from brain injury and how both learned the power of stillness and surrender.Practical WisdomSmall shifts—like walking more slowly or unplugging from your phone—can reset the nervous system.True strength comes from knowing when to stop pushing and start listening.Building “teams” in life, art, and healing creates the support needed for real transformation.Personal GrowthFrom adrenaline and ego to empathy and awareness—Rush’s evolution as a creator and human being.How service projects like Paddle Tribal Waters reconnect purpose to passion.The practice of slowing down as a daily meditation—one mindful step, one quiet breath at a time.Helpful LinksRush Sturges: Website | Instagram | YouTube | SpotifyFilms: The River Runner | Chasing Niagara | Paddle Tribal WatersRíos to Rivers: riostorivers.orgConcussion Resources:  Brain Storm Podcast & Resource Book | Concussion Video ResourcesSupport What’s the Rusch: 💬 Love the show? Share it with a friend, leave a review, or post your favorite moment on Instagram and tag @rebeccarusch. Every bit of support helps us continue these deep conversations.Connect with Rebecca RuschWebsite Instagram LinkedIn Substack Blood Road Brain Storm Podcast

In this illuminating conversation, Rebecca reconnects with one of her most influential mentors and longtime collaborators, Dr. Andy Walshe — a pioneering performance scientist, surfer, father, and Chief Performance Officer at Liminal Collective. Known for his groundbreaking work with Red Bull, the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team, and elite performers across sport, military, art, and business, Andy has spent his career studying what drives human potential. Together, Rebecca and Andy explore how true performance isn’t about doing more — it’s about understanding ourselves more deeply.They dive into the paradox of progress, the intersection of technology and humanity, and why the best tools for mastery are often the simplest: movement, stillness, curiosity, and connection.In this episode, Rebecca and Andy explore:How Red Bull’s human performance program redefined the boundaries of elite trainingThe creation of Andy’s holistic Human Performance Model — integrating physiology, creativity, spirituality, and characterWhy partnership, not prescription, is the key to unlocking potentialHow discomfort and uncertainty build resilienceThe role of curiosity and purpose in sustaining long-term growthThe evolving relationship between humans and technology — and what it really means to “make humans more human”The importance of community as the ultimate performance enhancerTransformative InsightsThe Power of Purpose: Every high performer shares one trait — a purpose greater than themselves.Curiosity as a Practice: The best in any field stay in “beginner’s mind,” constantly challenging assumptions.Partnership Over Perfection: The most effective coaching is built on collaboration and curiosity, not control.Embracing the Unknown: Performance breakthroughs often come when certainty is stripped away.The Future of Performance: Technology can enhance insight, but only human connection creates meaning.Vulnerable MomentsRebecca shares the identity crisis following her concussion and how she rediscovered herself through stillness and movement.Andy opens up about leaving Red Bull and navigating his own professional transition.Together they reflect on the power of community, purpose, and humility in times of change.Andy reveals why his favorite experiments at Red Bull weren’t about numbers or metrics — but about what happens when the plan falls apart.Practical WisdomTrue mastery is not about doing more — it’s about being more aware.The most valuable recovery tools are ancient: movement, time in nature, and intentional rest.Technology should free us to connect more deeply, not distract us from it.Building resilience starts with small, consistent practices that strengthen body, mind, and spirit.Create pauses in your day — the stillness is where insight lives.Personal GrowthRebecca’s “Athlete Operating System” reframes sport as a framework for life — a daily practice of curiosity, connection, and self-awareness.Andy’s mission through Liminal Collective is to democratize human performance, bringing world-class tools to everyday people.Both explore how to carry the lessons of high performance into the rest of life — from the mountains to the boardroom to the dinner table.Helpful LinksAndy Walshe 🔗 Website 🔗 Liminal Collective 🔗 LinkedInSupport What’s the Rusch: 💬 Love the show? Share it with a friend, leave a review, or post your favorite moment on Instagram and tag @rebeccarusch. Every bit of support helps us continue these deep conversations.Connect with Rebecca RuschWebsite Instagram LinkedIn Substack Blood Road Brain Storm Podcast

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch digs into the science—and soul—of exploration with journalist and bestselling author Alex Hutchinson. Known for his books Endure and The Explorer’s Gene, Alex unpacks why we’re wired to seek challenges, how curiosity fuels growth, and why doing hard things often leads to the most meaningful moments in life. Together, Rebecca and Alex dive into the psychology of pushing limits, rediscovering play, and finding purpose in both stillness and motion.Show NotesIn this episode, Rebecca and Alex discuss:The science behind The Explorer’s Gene and why curiosity drives human progressThe tension between exploring new frontiers and exploiting what we already knowHow doing hard things gives life deeper meaningWhy we need uncertainty to grow—and how to find the right balance of risk and rewardThe surprising link between exploration, play, and creativityHow sport serves as the ultimate laboratory for self-discoveryThe difference between passive and active exploration in the age of algorithmsTransformative InsightsExploration is about learning something new about yourself.The “effort paradox”: we value what’s hard because it’s hard.Play and exploration are deeply connected; curiosity is the bridge between them.The sweet spot for growth lies between fear and boredom—where uncertainty meets possibility.Hardship and learning are inseparable; meaning comes from the struggle.Vulnerable MomentsRebecca shares how her old Bronco became a symbol of independence, transformation, and letting go.Alex opens up about his struggles with anxiety before races and learning to find calm through experience.Rebecca reflects on losing her sense of play and how she’s rediscovering joy beyond performance.Both reflect on shifting from “the next challenge” to learning how to slow down and savor the journey.Practical WisdomYou can’t outsource discovery—real learning comes from active participation, not algorithms.Explore doesn’t mean “chase everything new”; it means follow what sparks curiosity.To stay engaged, add novelty in small ways: take a new route, learn a new skill, have a new kind of conversation.If a goal feels a little scary, you’re probably in the right zone for growth.The most meaningful goals are challenging and chosen, not imposed.Personal GrowthHow Rebecca’s athletic evolution mirrors the explore–exploit balance.Alex’s reflections on writing, family, and why building a treehouse changed how he thinks about learning.Finding stillness amid ambition: learning when to slow down without losing momentum.Why rediscovering play as adults is a powerful act of exploration.Helpful LinksThe Explorer’s Gene: Why We Seek Big Challenges, New Flavors, and Blank Spots on the MapEndure: Mind, Body, and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human PerformanceAlex Hutchinson’s websiteAlex on LinkedInSupport What’s the Rusch: 💬 Love the show? Share it with a friend, leave a review, or post your favorite moment on Instagram and tag @rebeccarusch. Every bit of support helps us continue these deep conversations.Connect with Rebecca RuschWebsite Instagram LinkedIn Substack Blood Road Brain Storm Podcast

Rebecca Rusch connects with two-time Olympian and eight-time world champion Caroline Buchanan for a powerful conversation about reinvention, resilience, and redefining success. From near-death recovery to landing the first-ever women’s front flip in competition, Caroline has pushed boundaries in every direction—but it was slowing down that gave her the strength to level up. Together, she and Rebecca explore what it takes to rebuild after loss, lead with authenticity, and find purpose beyond performance.Show Notes:In this episode, Rebecca and Caroline explore:How Caroline transformed a life-threatening injury into a launchpad for growthThe identity crisis that came with stepping away from racing and learning to pauseWhy slowing down can be the most powerful move you makeThe mental shift from outcome-driven goals to purpose-driven livingHer transition from BMX Olympian to freeride pioneer and broadcast commentatorThe creation of her new Ignite mentorship and education platform for athletesTransformative Insights:“Effort first” — how her parents instilled a mindset of earning progress, not expecting itWhy being “what you couldn’t see” became her lifelong missionHow a doctor’s simple prescription—gratitude, sunrise, and connection—reignited her joyThe “why” statement that became her compass for every decisionUsing tapping, meditation, and mindfulness to rewire her nervous system for confidence and calmThe difference between chasing medals and living a meaningful legacyVulnerable Moments:Caroline recounts her devastating 2017 crash that punctured her lungs and heart wallThe moment she realized she didn’t have the right people supporting her recoveryFacing depression and anxiety during two years of painful reconstructionThe courage it took to “put her learner plates back on” and start over in freerideHow slowing down forced her to find nurture, femininity, and emotional intelligencePractical Wisdom:The three healing practices that replaced medication: watch the sunrise, express gratitude, and connect with othersHow to use mantras as mental anchors in both triumph and hardship“This too shall pass”—a reminder that both pain and glory are temporaryHow to define your “why” so clearly that it becomes unshakableViewing patience as part of performance, not a pause from itPersonal Growth:Caroline’s evolution from BMX prodigy to mountain bike pioneer and mentorBuilding Ignite to guide the next generation of athletes on professionalism and purposeHow her near-death experience reshaped her definition of successLearning to lead from the bench—impact without medalsThe strength that comes from blending mind, body, and spirit into one foundationHelpful Links:Connect with Caroline Buchanan:InstagramCaroline’s WebsiteIgnite ProgramMentioned in the Episode:Nam Baldwin – High Performance CoachWolfpack by Abby WambachRed Bull RampageSupport What’s the Rusch: 💬 Love the show? Share it with a friend, leave a review, or post your favorite moment on Instagram and tag @rebeccarusch. Every bit of support helps us continue these deep conversations.Connect with Rebecca RuschWebsite Instagram LinkedIn Substack Blood Road Brain Storm Podcast

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca sits down with one of climbing’s most accomplished couples—Emily Harrington and Adrian Ballinger. From free climbing El Capitan in a single day to summiting Everest without supplemental oxygen, they’ve each carved their own legendary paths. But beyond the bold headlines, Emily and Adrian open up about what it really takes to balance risk, ambition, partnership, and personal growth at the highest level.Together, they share the stories behind their biggest climbs, the challenges of sustaining both a relationship and two elite careers, and the deep lessons they’ve learned about resilience, love, and redefining success.In this episode, Rebecca, Emily, and Adrian discuss:Emily’s historic free climb of El Capitan’s Golden Gate route in a single dayAdrian’s no-oxygen Everest summit and why he continues to return to the HimalayaThe dynamics of being partners on the mountain and at homeWhat it means to take risks together—and where they draw the lineBuilding a life that blends adventure, purpose, and presenceHow they support each other through setbacks, injuries, and fearTransformative Insights:Growth doesn’t happen without discomfort—and sometimes failure is the best teacher.True partnership means knowing when to step up and when to step back.The stories we tell about our achievements are less important than the values they reflect.Adventure is not just about summits—it’s about the process of becoming.Vulnerable Moments:Emily opens up about the injuries that nearly derailed her career.Adrian reflects on the loneliness and pressure of leading Everest expeditions.Both share what it feels like to risk their lives in the mountains while also protecting their relationship.Rebecca and Emily connect over the challenge of balancing identity as athletes with evolving into new roles.Practical Wisdom:Why clear communication is as essential on the mountain as any technical skill.How to prepare mentally for risk and uncertainty.The role of rest, recovery, and perspective in sustaining long careers.Tips for finding presence—even in the middle of high-stakes pursuits.Personal Growth:Emily’s evolution from competition climber to bold alpinist.Adrian’s shift from chasing summits to finding deeper purpose in guiding and mentoring.Rebecca’s reflections on partnership, identity, and letting go of the need to “prove it.”The reminder that achievement without connection is never enough.Helpful Links:Emily Harrington Website“Girl Climber” - live on Jolt 10/15. Streaming everywhere in NovemberAdrian Ballinger WebsiteAlpenglow ExpeditionsRebecca Rusch WebsiteRebecca Rusch InstagramRebecca Rusch YouTubeRebecca Rusch LinkedIn

In this deeply personal episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca reconnects with longtime teammate and multi-time world champion Anneke Beerten. From her BMX beginnings in the Netherlands to dominating Crankworx and Enduro World Series events, Anneke has done it all on two wheels. But her greatest test came off the course—when a traumatic brain injury abruptly ended her career.Rebecca and Anneke dive into what it means to rewrite your story after the finish line, how to navigate the invisible injuries, and the power of staying in the sport—just in a different role. Now a coach, mentor, and skills instructor, Anneke is helping shape the next generation of riders, while also navigating her own ongoing recovery.This episode is about identity, purpose, healing after an injury, and what it means to keep showing up, even when the ride looks different than you planned. In this episode, Rebecca and Anneke explore:Starting BMX at age 4 and racing internationally as a teenThe evolution of a mountain bike career across disciplines—BMX, 4X, EnduroThe car accident that caused her traumatic brain injuryLetting go of a racing career before she was readyCoaching for USA Cycling and mentoring Olympic medalist Haley BattenCoaching from Crankworx to beginners, with equal joy and passionFinding peace, purpose, and a new kind of finish lineTransformative Insights:"Fun was always a non-negotiable part of my training."Brain injuries are treatable—but require advocacy and patience.Recovery is not linear, and it’s often invisible.You can still win—by helping others rise.Letting go of the comeback dream was the first step toward real healing.Vulnerable Moments:Anneke shares the fear and emotional toll of post-TBI symptomsThe grief of losing a lifelong identity in one instantFeeling isolated in a facility surrounded by stroke survivors at age 38The emotional reckoning of realizing she couldn’t race againWhat it meant to return to Crankworx—not to compete, but to close a chapter Practical Wisdom:Follow your gut: fear and intuition are both teachers“Just give me two hours to undo what you’ve been doing for 10 years”—Anneke’s coaching mantraRecord videos or journal during recovery to track invisible progressHelping others can bring the same thrill as racingYou don't need a podium to have purpose Personal Growth:From podiums to mentorship: how Anneke found joy in coachingLearning to ask for help—and accept itThe move to Bentonville as a radical act of healing and communityLetting go of plans and finding presence in the momentRedefining success through connection, not competition📚 Helpful Links:Anneke’s WebsiteCrank it Up MTB CoachingAnneke’s YouTubeBrain Storm Podcast and Resource GuideRebecca’s YT Concussion Video ResourcesSponsor:This episode is sponsored by Eternal.Eternal is redefining athlete health with personalized, evidence-based care. From advanced blood biomarker testing to in-depth performance assessments and concierge support, they give you the tools to train smarter, recover better, and avoid injury.Check them out at eternal.co and use promo code WTR for 10% off your performance physical today.Support What’s the Rusch: 💬 Love the show? Share it with a friend, leave a review, or post your favorite moment on Instagram and tag @rebeccarusch. Every bit of support helps us continue these deep conversations.Connect with Rebecca RuschWebsite Instagram LinkedIn Substack Blood Road Brain Storm Podcast Be Good Foundation

In this powerful episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca welcomes Lauren Fleshman—former professional runner, coach, author of the bestselling book Good for a Girl, and one of the most influential voices in women’s sport. Together, they explore what it means to push boundaries, to question the systems we inherit, and to carve new pathways for ourselves and for future generations. From racing at the highest levels to advocating for equity in athletics, Lauren’s journey is as much about courage and vulnerability as it is about speed.This conversation dives into the deep lessons that come from showing up authentically, honoring your body, and embracing the uncomfortable process of growth.Show Notes:In this episode, Rebecca and Lauren discuss:Why redefining success beyond medals and podiums is essential for long-term fulfillmentThe importance of honoring your nervous system and holistic health in trainingHow Lauren’s book Good for a Girl challenges the systems that fail young female athletesThe transition from professional athlete to advocate, coach, and mentorWhy authenticity and vulnerability can be more powerful than achievementTransformative Insights:The cascade effect of living in alignment with your valuesHow sharing your story can help shift culture and create belongingWhy advocating for women in sport isn’t just about equity—it’s about human potentialThe critical role of joy, play, and self-compassion in performanceVulnerable Moments:Lauren shares what it was like to face injury and the loss of her athletic identityRebecca and Lauren reflect on the pressure to perform and the cost of perfectionismBoth explore how adventure and movement can be grounding forces through life transitionsPractical Wisdom:Introduce yourself with your values, not just your professionRemove decision-making burdens by leaning into core non-negotiablesRecognize that nervous system health is the foundation of performanceFind ways to support others in non-threatening, authentic waysPersonal Growth:Lauren’s evolution from chasing external validation to creating systemic changeRebecca’s recognition of adventure as a lifelong throughline—for healing, growth, and connectionThe reminder that the strongest people often need support tooWhy embracing impermanence and discomfort can lead to lasting resilienceHelpful Links:Lauren Fleshman’s Website: https://www.laurenfleshman.com/Lauren on Instagram: @fleshmanflyerLauren’s book Good for a Girl: https://www.laurenfleshman.com/bookWilder Retreats with LaurenSponsor:This episode is sponsored by Eternal.Eternal is redefining athlete health with personalized, evidence-based care. From advanced blood biomarker testing to in-depth performance assessments and concierge support, they give you the tools to train smarter, recover better, and avoid injury.Check them out at eternal.co and use promo code WTR for 10% off your performance physical today.Support What’s the Rusch: 💬 Love the show? Share it with a friend, leave a review, or post your favorite moment on Instagram and tag @rebeccarusch. Every bit of support helps us continue these deep conversations.Connect with Rebecca RuschWebsite Instagram LinkedIn Substack Blood Road Brain Storm Podcast Be Good Foundation

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch and freeskiing icon Michelle Parker explore what happens when your identity is deeply tied to performance—and what it takes to unravel that. From the peaks of big mountain skiing to the quiet rebuilding after injury, Michelle has redefined what success looks like in a world that often demands constant output.They dive into the power of friendship, the necessity of slowing down, and the ways fear can both guide and free us. Michelle shares how she’s evolved beyond athlete into filmmaker, advocate, and student of herself—and why letting go of who she thought she had to be helped her become who she truly is.In this episode, Rebecca and Michelle discuss:How fear and flow shape Michelle’s relationship with skiing and filmmakingThe role of friendship and community in creative and athletic longevityTransitioning from athlete to producer and redefining her “why”The emotional journey through concussions and identity shiftsFinding grounding through journaling, reflection, and intentional livingTransformative Insights:Adventure and joy can coexist with self-awareness and restInjury can be a portal to creativity, clarity, and reinventionThe stories we tell ourselves are just as powerful as the ones we tell othersBuilding a fulfilling life is not about chasing the next mountain—it’s about choosing the right oneVulnerable Moments:Michelle shares her experience with brain injury, mental fog, and relearning who she isRebecca reflects on their shared concussion journeys and the subtle healing that comes with timeThey both explore the tug-of-war between external achievement and internal peaceMichelle opens up about losing friends in the mountains—and how that changes her relationship with risk and joyPractical Wisdom:How to balance structure with spontaneity in creative and athletic pursuitsTips for staying grounded when your identity is tied to performanceWhy rest, reflection, and play are just as important as hustleStrategies for navigating transitions—on the mountain and in lifePersonal Growth:Michelle’s evolution from competition skier to filmmaker, mentor, and creative leaderThe power of saying no—and redefining success on your own termsBuilding confidence by choosing what feels right instead of what looks impressiveHow Michelle has learned to live more intentionally and embrace “enoughness”Helpful Links:Michelle Parker on InstagramMichelle’s Red Bull ProfileAlpenglow keynote speech: A shift in perspective Season 1 Episode 1 of Originate with Red BullContinuum - Michelle’s first ever Director titleSponsor: Eternal is redefining athlete health with personalized, evidence-based care. From advanced blood biomarker testing to in-depth performance assessments and concierge support, they give you the tools to train smarter, recover better, and avoid injury.Check them out at eternal.co and use promo code WTR for 10% off your performance physical today.Support What’s the Rusch: 💬 Love the show? Share it with a friend, leave a review, or post your favorite moment on Instagram and tag @rebeccarusch. Every bit of support helps us continue these deep conversations.Connect with Rebecca RuschWebsite Instagram LinkedIn Substack Blood Road Brain Storm Podcast Be Good Foundation

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch is joined by mountain biking phenom and SheSends founder Kate Courtney for an honest, high-vibration conversation about racing, reinvention, and rising to your own standard of success. From being the only girl on her high school team to becoming a world champion and Olympic athlete, Kate has reshaped what it means to lead with values—not just victories. Now, she’s charting a bold new course in her career: founding her own team, launching a foundation, and redefining what success means from the inside out.This conversation explores what happens when you bet on yourself—on and off the bike—and how the moments that test us can often be our greatest teachers.Show Notes: In this episode, Rebecca and Kate discuss:The founding and vision behind SheSends: a race team and a movementHer evolution from factory team rider to entrepreneur and team builderHow Leadville became her unexpected comeback after injuryCultivating intrinsic motivation in a results-driven worldThe changing landscape of women’s cycling and why it mattersLetting go of external validation to focus on values-based leadershipThe mental and physical shift that comes from playing the long gameTransformative Insights:Believing in yourself—not just the outcome—is the most powerful performance toolYou don’t have to wait to feel confident to take the leap—just “send it”Structure is the secret sauce, not sheer disciplineCuriosity is often the most powerful motivator we haveBuilding your own path can energize your performance in unexpected waysVulnerable Moments:Kate opens up about the injury that sidelined her season—and sparked a resetShe reflects on early years of being underestimated and overextendedRebecca and Kate share how they’ve both wrestled with shifting identities in sportKate talks about learning to rest, reframe, and rebuild—without losing momentumPractical Wisdom:Use values—not just metrics—to define successTreat injury or detours as data, not defeatRedefine goals through bronze/silver/gold tiers to keep perspectiveLet structure support joy, not stifle itCreate space for the “main thing”—and know when to let the rest goPersonal Growth:Kate’s shift from peak performance to purpose-driven impact through SheSendsHer approach to writing, reflection, and building mental clarity through Monday MantrasEmbracing uncertainty as a form of freedomExpanding her team from just staff and support to a mission-aligned communityHelpful Links:Kate’s Website SheSends Foundation Kate Courtney's Substack – Monday Mantras Kate on Instagram Kate’s Interview on Rich RollKate on the Second Nature PodcastSupport What’s the Rusch: 💬 Love the show? Share it with a friend, leave a review, or post your favorite moment on Instagram and tag @rebeccarusch. Every bit of support helps us continue these deep conversations.Connect with Rebecca RuschWebsite Instagram LinkedIn Substack Blood Road Brain Storm Podcast Be Good Foundation LINKSFollow our Guest:Instagram 549 FollowersFacebook 591K FollowersLinkedInhttps://katecourtney.com/She Sends - Foundation & Race Team

In this heartfelt and illuminating episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebeccas has the JOY of talking with her friend, Mirna Valerio—known to many as The Mirnavator. Mirna is an ultra-runner, writer, skier, poet, educator, and unapologetic force of joy. Together, they trace Mirna’s journey from a Brooklyn childhood to discovering mountains and ultimately reshaping what outdoor adventure looks and feels like.Through stories of summer camp, teaching, motherhood, poetry, and being a plus-size Black woman in spaces not designed for her, Mirna reveals the power of choosing yourself, again and again. This is a conversation about joy as resistance, belonging as birthright, and the ripple effect of being exactly who you are. It’s about introducing yourself with your values, not just your profession—and letting adventure be a lifelong thread in your story.In this episode, Rebecca and Mirna explore:Finding her voice in both poetry and the outdoorsThe poem Trophic Cascade and how it mirrors life transformationNature as the ultimate teacher and refuge—“Nature is always the answer”Core values as non-negotiables, and how to lead with themWhat it means to take up space—on trails, in life, and in leadershipThe strongest people often don’t get the support they need—and how to change thatSupporting your people in non-threatening, nourishing waysHow writing, community, and curiosity became Mirna’s healing practicesTransformative Insights:Nature doesn’t just welcome us—it changes usYour presence can shift a space, even if you weren’t invited inBelonging starts with deciding you’re allowed to belongCultivating joy is a radical act of self-preservation and leadershipIntroduce yourself by your values, not just your job titleYou don’t need to reach the summit to feel the transformationVulnerable Moments:Mirna shares what it felt like to not be seen in outdoor spaces—and how she kept showing up anywayShe talks about grief, burnout, and the internal tug-of-war of performing vs. simply beingRebecca opens up about her own depression and loss of purpose during recovery from a head injuryThe two reflect on how writing became a lifeline in the darkMirna speaks to the exhaustion of being “the strong one”—and how she’s learning to ask for helpPractical Wisdom:How to identify your core values—and use them as navigational handrailsThe importance of creating judgment-free space for processing, growth, and restWhy vulnerability is a strength, not a weaknessWays to build community through action, not just intentionHow to hold space for both leadership and learningPersonal Growth:Mirna’s evolution from educator to outdoor leader to published author and DEI advocateRebecca’s journey from podiums to poetryThe ways both women are reclaiming what it means to “perform” and to “belong”Reframing the pursuit of adventure as something that starts with joy—not outcomesEmbracing a new season of life where permission comes from withinAdventure as a lifelong throughline—for Mirna and for RebeccaLifelong educator. Lifelong student. Lifelong adventurer.Helpful Links:Mirna Valerio’s website – The MirnavatorMirna on InstagramMirna’s book – A Beautiful Work in ProgressCamille T. Dungy’s poem “Trophic Cascade”Mary Oliver’s poem “Wild Geese”Lisa Congdon’s Live Your Values DeckSponsor: MomentousFuel your performance from the inside out. Use code RUSCH for 35% off at Live Momentous.Support What’s the RuschIf this episode moved you, inspired you, or made you think—share it with someone who needs to hear it.Leave a review. Send it to a friend. Let’s walk this path together.Connect with Rebecca RuschWebsite Blood Road Brain Storm Podcast Ted Talk Be Good Foundation Social Media LinksInstagram Facebook LinkedIn Substack YouTube

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch shares an expansive and grounding conversation with former professional skateboarder turned artist/mindfulness teacher, Teddi Dean. From a countercultural childhood in 1970s Huntington Beach to riding for the legendary Bones Brigade and eventually embracing Buddhist vows, Teddi’s path is a journey of reinvention and self-discovery. Together, Rebecca and Teddi unpack what it means to pause, to look inward, and to reclaim your identity—beyond titles, accolades, or roles.This episode explores the transformation that happens when we stop running and start listening. Through personal stories, Buddhist wisdom, and practical tools, Teddi reminds us that stillness isn’t the absence of momentum—it’s the beginning of something deeper. Whether you're in transition, chasing purpose, or simply curious about meditation, this conversation is an invitation to begin again.In this episode, Rebecca and Teddi explore:How Teddi went from pro skateboarder to mindfulness teacherIdentity, reinvention, and the chapters of a lifetimeWhy community is essential for transformationThe importance of pausing in a hyper-productive cultureNavigating midlife transitions with grace and curiosityHow MEA (Modern Elder Academy) supports mindful agingTransformative Insights:Identity is fluid; we live many lives within a lifetimeMeditation helps us observe and reset—not escapeThe antidotes to suffering (loving-kindness, compassion, sympathetic joy, equanimity) are tools for realignmentVulnerability is strength—it builds authentic relationships and internal peaceYou don’t have to “fix” yourself to start healing; just beginVulnerable Moments:Rebecca shares how she’s learning to sit still after decades of “moving meditation” as an athleteTeddi reflects on his struggles with addiction, identity loss, and rediscovery through mindfulnessThey both explore the discomfort—and necessity—of letting go of former versions of ourselvesPractical Wisdom:Why meditation is not about stopping your thoughtsHow to apply “beginner’s mind” to aging, creativity, and careerCreating space for discomfort as a doorway to changeThe role of ritual and daily practice in emotional hygieneWhy we must learn to forgive ourselves firstPersonal Growth:Teddi’s evolution from a skateboarding icon to MEA’s Head of MindfulnessRebecca’s journey from “Queen of Pain” to explorer of the inner landscapeHow community and storytelling accelerate healingLearning to be a “kook” again—embracing the beginner withinHelpful Links:Teddi Dean’s WebsiteBook Recommendation: Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to AwakeningMEA (Modern Elder Academy)Teddi on InstagramSponsor: MomentousFuel your performance from the inside out. Use code RUSCH for 35% off at Live Momentous.Support What’s the Rusch Love the show? Leave a review, share it with a friend, or tag @rebeccarusch on social.Connect with Rebecca RuschWebsite Blood Road Brain Storm Podcast Ted Talk Be Good Foundation Social Media LinksInstagram Facebook LinkedIn Substack YouTube