What if the same mindset that gets you through a Class IV rapid could help you start a business, write a book, or take a bold leap in life?

In this episode of The Discomfort Zone, Anna sits down with Melissa DeMarie — international kayak coach, river guide, and founder of California Watersport Collective — to talk about how navigating the unknown on the river mirrors the discomfort we face in life, leadership, and growth.

Melissa shares her "mental flow chart" — a practical, soulful framework for aking decisions when fear hits.

We explore:

🌊 How to transform nerves into excitement when the butterflies kick in
🧠 Why "failure" on the river (or in business) is just another rapid to learn from
💪 The power of rituals, self-talk, and embodiment when stepping into challenge
🔥 What it really takes to build confidence, community, and courage over a 20-year paddling career
💫 And how to bring your inner silverback gorilla to the moments that scare you most.

This one's not just for paddlers — it's for anyone ready to push past fear, trust themselves, and find flow on the river and in life.

👉 Listen now to learn how to paddle smarter through fear, failure, and growth — and why your next breakthrough might just start in your discomfort zone.

About Melissa

Melissa is a certified whitewater kayak coach, international guide, and founder of California Watersports Collective, a paddlesports school offering instruction and adventure programs across the U.S., Chile, Norway, and Italy. Melissa combines technical expertise with a deep passion for empowering others through outdoor adventure. She also leads a nonprofit initiative, Riverbound, focused on breaking down barriers to access in paddlesports, creating inclusive and supportive spaces on the water. A proud team paddler for Kokatat, Pyranha and Werner Paddles, Melissa brings 20 years of experience, mentorship and environmental stewardship to every river she shares.

Connect with Melissa

Cali Collective: https://cwwcollective.com/

IG: @cwwcollective

FB: melissa.demarie

Riverbound: https://www.riverboundoutreach.org/