You've felt that edge before — the moment between staying in the eddy and peeling out into the current.

In this episode of The Discomfort Zone Podcast, I sit down with world-class kayaker, coach, and avalanche specialist Tyler Curtis to explore what it really means to lean into uncertainty — on the river and in life.

From freestyle kayaking and youth coaching, to living abroad and learning a new language, Tyler shares how following his passion shaped not just his career, but his resilience, confidence, and leadership. We talk about how fear evolves, how risk tolerance changes over time, and why modeling failure as a coach builds real trust.

This conversation blends whitewater wisdom with practical mindset tools you can apply immediately — whether you're challenging yourself to run harder rivers, leading others, or navigating uncertainty in your everyday life.

In this episode, you'll explore:

• How to tell the difference between real danger and the stories your mind creates

• Why modeling failure builds trust, confidence, and stronger coaching relationships

• How freestyle kayaking develops resilience and mental agility under pressure

• What youth athletes can teach us about courage and pushing comfort zones

• Why following your passion builds transferable life skills — from leadership to risk management

If you care about building courage — in yourself or in the people you lead — this episode will change how you think about fear and growth.

🎧 Listen now to explore how passion becomes discipline, skill, and leadership.