In this episode of The Dark Zone, we sit down with Slade Combs, a performance coach who helps people understand, confront, and work through fear — not by eliminating it, but by learning how to carry it well. Whether you’re standing on a start line, staring down a scary race section, preparing for a big presentation, or simply trying to perform when the stakes feel high, fear shows up. The question isn’t if — it’s how.

Slade brings a calm, practical, and deeply human approach to performance. We talk about why fear feels so powerful, how it is rooted in our life experience, and what actually helps when confidence wavers and doubt creeps in. This isn’t about hype or shortcuts. It’s about awareness, practice, and building trust in yourself when conditions aren’t perfect.

Adventure racing lives in the margins — fatigue, uncertainty, imperfect information. So does life. This conversation bridges both worlds, offering insight for adventure racers, leaders, creatives, and anyone who wants to show up more fully when it matters most.

Shownotes:

https://www.sladecombs.com/

https://ardarkzone.com/2025/04/04/episode-121-dave-jackson-of-cavesim-what-caving-can-teach-adventure-racers-about-fear-focus-and-teamwork/

Sponsor Links:

Nuataaq Carabiner Hydration Bottle - www.nuataaq.com

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

Adventureware Shop - https://adventureware.shop/