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From collegiate steeplechaser to trail running phenomenon, Rachel Tomajczyk's athletic journey is one of remarkable resilience and evolution. Fresh from her impressive performance at the Great China Wall Race, Rachel joins us to unpack her experiences competing on one of the world's most iconic landmarks – dealing with brutal climbs, technical descents, and navigating cultural differences along the way.

Rachel pulls back the curtain on the realities of international competition, from the complex visa processes to the camaraderie formed with competitors from across the globe. Her perspective on training solo versus group dynamics offers fascinating insights into the psychology of elite performance, challenging conventional wisdom about what truly helps athletes thrive.

What truly sets this conversation apart is Rachel's candor about her struggles with eating disorders during her collegiate career. She shares how initially associating weight loss with improved performance led to a cycle of injuries that threatened her athletic future. Her journey toward healing wasn't immediate but evolved through painful lessons that have shaped her current approach to health and performance – wisdom that could be life-changing for listeners facing similar challenges.

The business side of professional running receives significant attention as Rachel explains how working with an agent has transformed her sponsorship experiences. She offers rare transparency about contract negotiations and the awkward position athletes face when approached by competitors seeking sponsorship connections – insights that aspiring professionals rarely hear discussed openly.

Throughout our conversation, Rachel's balanced perspective on competition, faith, and defining success reveals why she's not just a formidable competitor but a true ambassador for the sport. Follow her journey on Instagram @rachrunsworld as she continues to dominate the trail running scene while maintaining the refreshing authenticity that makes her story so compelling.

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Follow James on IG - @jameslauriello

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