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Dive into the remarkable dual journey of Nicholas Turco, who seamlessly navigates the demanding worlds of elite trail running and international diplomacy. As one of only three American men invited to the prestigious Golden Trail World Series Final in Italy, Nicholas has established himself among the country's top mountain runners while simultaneously serving as a consultant for the United Nations Human Rights Office.

From the vertical trails of Durango that shaped his early running career to the halls of the UN in Geneva, Nicholas shares how he's intentionally crafted a life that honors both passions without compromise. His breakthrough performances this season at races like Broken Arrow Skyrace and the Golden Trail event in Mexico showcase an athlete hitting his stride on the world stage.

What makes Nicholas's story particularly compelling is his candid discussion of overcoming performance anxiety through sports psychology and his work with the US Olympic Committee. He reveals how addressing cortisol imbalances and implementing specific breathing techniques transformed his racing experience, allowing him to perform at his best when the stakes are highest.

Beyond his personal achievements, Nicholas is pioneering an innovative project connecting Olympic athletes with UN humanitarian efforts, leveraging the power of sport for global impact. As an openly LGBT athlete, he's also passionate about creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels they belong in their athletic dreams.

Whether you're juggling multiple career paths, struggling with performance anxiety, or simply fascinated by how elite athletes structure their lives, this conversation offers valuable insights into balancing high-level performance across different domains. Nicholas's message that "if you continue to do what you want to be, you will become it" serves as powerful inspiration for anyone pursuing seemingly divergent passions.

Follow Nicholas on Instagram @turco_nicholas as he prepares for the Golden Trail World Series Final and continues his journey toward representing Team USA in international competition while making a difference on the global stage.

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Follow James on IG - @jameslauriello

Follow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_pod