America’s Brian McLaughlin and Belgium’s Sam Maes have taken two different paths to the World Cup, but both were facilitated by Global Racing, an organization based in Austria that helps support and develop world-class ski racers. In this conversation we speak with Global Racing Coach Paul Epstein, as well as McLaughlin and Maes –both of whom scored multiple World Cup points this season– and learn about advantages and disadvantages of being part of an independent team. With eight different nations represented on the Global Racing Team, Epstein explains the logistics of communicating with each federation in terms of qualification and entry to races. The trio also address the development gap and how Global Racing has created a much-needed platform for talented, motivated athletes who have fallen through the cracks. As always, hosts Martin, Cara and Jeff share their “SWIX Thoughts of the Day”.