Grow the Good

“Everesting” is not a race against others; it's a journey of self-discovery, pushing you to face your doubts and limitations. That’s exactly what sets 29029 apart; it's a unique challenge that involves hiking up and down mountains - Sun Valley, Jackson Hole, Whistler, and many more around the world - for 36 hours, striving to climb 29,029 vertical feet, the equivalent of Mount Everest. 

Marc Hodulich, co-founder of 29029, shares how the concept emerged from measuring workouts by vertical feet gained, not distance. It's a fresh perspective that transforms personal growth and community building. Lindsay Wojciechowski, a family nurse practitioner, participated in the first “Everesting” challenge. She lets us in on her inspirational experience of overcoming doubts by focusing on one step at a time.

Tune in to find out how this unique event empowers individuals to step outside their comfort zones, celebrate small victories, and build an unwavering sense of community and confidence. Together, we explore what it takes to climb 29,029 feet in 36 hours and unlock a resilient mindset that can transform every aspect of life. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Learn how 29029 aims to be inclusive by having a low barrier of entry through hiking and creating space for anyone to get out of their comfort zone.
• How celebrating small wins and progress even if the full goal isn't reached can still build confidence
• Connecting with others through shared challenging experiences can form lasting bonds
• Why staying present can help you overcome doubts and dark moments in the midst of struggle
• The power that mindset has in training; it’s as much about mental preparation as it is about physical fitness.

LINKS:

• Learn more and register for this Everest challenge
• Dive deeper into Marc & Lindsay's stories
• Sign up for my weekly newsletter! 
• Want more? Listen to this episode about Rob Lea and his Ultimate World Triathalon

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The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Plant-based eating brings energy and vitality to humans - but what does it do for our planet? I sat down with author Cory Davis to find out more about how our diets are connected to broader environmental issues and why the smallest choices can make the biggest impact.

Rooted in his love for animal rights, Cory’s sustainability journey led him to the intersection of natural resource management, intercultural relations, and animal activism. Cory sheds light on the power of choosing a plant-based diet. We explored how foods like tofu, lentils, and peas, with their minimal water requirements, can significantly reduce water usage and pollution.

Plus, Cory shared some radical insight into the potential of a global shift to plant-based diets and rewilding land used for animal agriculture – a move that could sequester 16 years' worth of carbon and boost our chances of meeting the Paris Agreement's climate goals.

Here are some key takeaways:

• • Plant-Powered Proteins: Opting for plant-based proteins like tofu, lentils, and peas promotes personal health and helps reduce water usage and pollution. 
  • The Beef and Dairy Dilemma: Cutting back on these products can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, and land usage.
  • Collective Impact: Learn about small choices we can make every day towards a more sustainable future.
  • Diet Choices and Climate Change: Cory shares some staggering statistics about how our eating habits impact the environment.
  • Sharing Sustainability: Get tips on how to encourage sustainable choices amongst family and friends.

Links:

• Watch the documentary: Forks Over Knives
• Get the book Plant-Powered Protein
• Learn more about Cory Davis and his research on plant-based protein
• Listen to Climate Change Solutions with Drawdown's Jonathan Foley
• Interested in more recipes? Check out Plant Based on a Budget
• Sign up for my weekly newsletter! 
• Want more? Listen to this episode about plant-based living with Maxime Sigouin

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The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co. 

How can we break free from the traditional job-centric identity? And how can we redefine ourselves beyond our professional roles? Christina Wallace is a true trailblazer in the world of career and life design. She's a Harvard senior lecturer and the author of The Portfolio Life: How to Future-Proof Your Career, Avoid Burnout, and Build a Life Bigger than Your Business Card.

In this conversation, we got into the nitty-gritty of how diversifying your skills and experiences can give you a unique edge in navigating your career. We talked about the power of saying "yes" to unexpected opportunities, drawing from Christina's own life-changing experience of jetting off to a new country with someone she had just met. The impact of that bold move? It's been nothing short of transformative for her as an entrepreneur, parent, and creative soul.

Christina shared practical steps for seeing yourself beyond your job, designing a business model for your life, and crafting a portfolio life that defies the conventional notion of "work-life balance." Let’s challenge the status quo and inspire you to create a life that transcends your business card, and turn the "F-word" (Failure) into a powerful tool for success.

Here are a few key takeaways:

• Identity Beyond Career: Learn how defining yourself outside professional roles can unlock your full potential and purpose.

• Diverse Skills Pay Off: How Christina's experience in diverse fields enriches her unique perspective, enhances career opportunities and adaptability.

• Embrace the Unexpected: Why welcoming spontaneous choices can lead to profound personal and professional growth, broadened horizons and innovation.

• Craft a Portfolio Life: Learn how to rethink work-life balance and design a dynamic, meaningful life aligned with passions and interests.

• Personal "Board of Directors": How to cultivate personal mentors for diverse life aspects to navigate your journey effectively and achieve holistic success.

LINKS:

• Learn more about Christina Wallace
• Read The Portfolio Life by Christina Wallace
• Interested in saying "yes" to adventure and leaning in to the unexpected? Check out my conversation with Shelby Stanger
• Sign up for my weekly newsletter!

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The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co. 

What is a flourishing community? What does it look like and how do we build it?

Last week, I started my Master's in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania. And after my first intensive, I'm already in awe of the power of community building made available to us when we engage in communication, collaboration, and lifelong learning.

I was surrounded by classmates from diverse backgrounds who quickly transformed into an incredible community in just five days and I want to share some insights into the program's dynamic facilitation that made it all possible.

This program already holds a special place in my heart, in part because it's guided by the wisdom of one of the field's pioneers, Professor Marty Seligman. Witnessing him embrace lifelong learning and flexibility at the age of 80 was powerful. He sets an incredible example of finding meaning and purpose in aging and I found it invigorating - I hope the same for my future.

So, what have I learned so far? I had the pleasure of speaking with one of my brilliant classmates, Ilene Schaffer, to dig into our community toolkits. We explore essential themes such as trust, vulnerability, humility, and the profound impact of recognizing each other's unique strengths. Our conversation also touches upon positive communication, collaboration's triumph over competition, and the enduring value of lifelong learning. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Trust and Psychological Safety: Establishing an intimate, safe environment through communication from day one can foster vulnerability and authentic connections in the long run.
• Leadership and Humility: Discover the importance of leaders modeling humility and willingness to learn from others, even in positions of authority.
• Strength-Based Approach: How to recognize the individual capabilities of each person in order to understand how they complement one another, and you.
• Collaboration Triumphs: Understand why fostering teamwork over competition is the key to collective success and a thriving community.
• Plus, Power of Positive Introductions: Hear tips for elevating this seemingly simple process to rapidly deepen connections within a group and build a strong sense of community.

Links:

• Listen to Ilene's podcast, What's Possible
• Learn how to be a better communicator
• Interested in stories about building community? Check out this episode with author and runner Charlie Engle
• Become one of my clients! Health Coaching | Mental Performance Coaching
• Enroll in my Moxy & Grit Mindset Academy
• Check out my newsletter for productivity, mindset, and mental skills

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The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co. 

In a world where challenges can either paralyze us with fear or propel us to unimaginable heights, my conversation with Charlie Engle unveils the remarkable power of embracing adversity with curiosity and the transformative power of sport.

Charlie is an ultramarathon runner, recovering addict, keynote speaker, and author of the memoir Running Man. He shares his journey from battling addiction, running across the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert, to confronting the justice system after spending time in prison.

We delve into the essential skill of seeking challenges that push us out of our comfort zones, allowing us to truly thrive and experience life's richness. Join us as Charlie shares his wisdom on living in the present moment, redefining success, and finding the humor and growth in life's imperfect journey.

Here are some key takeaways from my conversation with Charlie:

• Turning the dial: Why we shouldn't make decisions from low points, rather from a place of strength
• The power of curiosity: How this thread carried Charlie through adversity throughout his life
• Addiction and recovery: Hear how Charlie has met sobriety in every phase of his life, how he hopes to inspire others, and advice for people struggling
• The justice system: Why it's broken, and what Charlie learned during his time inside
• Staying present: The power of presence can change our lives - so why is it so hard to attain?
• Stories from the journey: Learn about Charlie's run across the Sahara Desert and his plans to journey from the Dead Sea to Everest

LINKS

• Learn more about Charlie Engle
• Read The Running Man by Charlie Engle
• Sign up for my newsletter!
• Interested in overcoming limiting beliefs? Check out this episode with world explorer Colin O'Brady

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The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co. 

From starting as a bike messenger to becoming a road racing champion, pro gravel/MTB privateer Starla Teddergreen faced the all too common experience of doubt - from self and others. So she did something about it. She created Distance to Empty, an award-based cycling program that empowers Colorado women to achieve their cycling goals. As we explore her transition to a new type of athlete, her story becomes a powerful lesson in resilience and the importance of prioritizing oneself within a community.

After claiming the title of overall USA Crits 2019 champion, Starla made a switch to gravel and mountain bike racing in 2021. Despite facing setbacks along the way, she won her first race back in 2022, conquered Leadville, and is now gearing up for a massive 2023 season after being selected for the prestigious LifeTime Grand Prix.

Starla's triumphs defy limitations and embrace uncertainty with unwavering determination. We delve into topics like breaking free from labels and comparisons, finding personal growth through adversity, and the incredible strength that arises when women support and empower each other.

Here are a few key takeaways:

• Ending limiting comparisons: Why labels hold us back from reaching our goals
• Pursuing challenging goals: Why you should approach the chance to be disappointed
• Supporting women in sport: Creating opportunities for all to succeed lessens competition against each other
• Showing up for yourself: How to build confidence that can empower you in all areas of life
• Living in fear limits life: Why taking risks pushes us toward innate self-belief
• Autoimmune challenges: How Starla’s life changed after the pandemic
• 20 years of learning: Embracing lessons on what it means to be an athlete

Links: 

• Learn more about Distance to Empty
• Sign up for my weekly newsletter!
• Want more? Listen to this episode about the first Women's Cycling Summit at Breck Epic

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The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Breck Epic is one of my favorite races in the world. And this year a week in Breckenridge, Colorado was made even more exceptional with the kick off of the Women’s Cycling Summit. I’m excited to recap this awesome week with you!

From the thrill of setting process-based goals to the power of community at the WCS, I'll share insights gained from racing and hosting. Get ready to be inspired by the incredible speakers, like Rachel Scott and Kate Boyle, who graced the summit, and find out how we took Breck Epic from a 7% female field, to 25% this year.

Plus, I’ll share my plans for the upcoming Grand Traverse race and upcoming graduate program in applied positive psychology at the University of Pennsylvania.

LINKS:

• Become one of my clients! Health Coaching | Mental Performance Coaching
• Enroll in my Moxy & Grit Mindset Academy
• Check out my newsletter for productivity, mindset, and mental skills

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The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co. 

What does true health mean to you? Over a decade ago, my journey towards a plant-based lifestyle was driven by a desire for vitality, not just performance. The documentary 'Forks Over Knives' opened my eyes to the profound impact of our dietary choices on longevity and overall well-being. Today, I'm stronger and more energized than ever before, and I'm passionate about sparking conversations that reveal the incredible potential of plant-based living.

I sat down with Maxime Sigouin, master health coach, dedicated philanthropist, and the visionary founder behind multiple successful plant-based fitness coaching businesses. Maxime's mission is crystal clear: empowering 10,000 vegans to achieve their best selves through the transformative power of whole food, plant-based diets.

Maxime shared his journey transitioning from bodybuilding to becoming a plant-based fitness guru and talked about busting common myths and misconceptions. But this episode is not just about optimizing health; it's about thriving in all aspects of life.

Key Takeaways from our Conversation:

• Understanding the profound impact of plant-based living on health
• Addressing and dispelling prevalent myths
• Practical tips and strategies for embracing a sustainable plant-based lifestyle
• Streamlining wellness through deep work, meal preparation, and delegation
• Entrepreneurial insights and helping others achieve their health and fitness goals
• Nurturing a healthy money mindset and cultivating a positive relationship with wealth
• Maxime's personal favorite vegan protein sources 

If our discussion resonates with you, I encourage you to subscribe and leave a review on your preferred podcast platform. Share this episode with your network—friends and family who are curious about plant-based living or seeking positive changes in their health journey. 

Let's unlock the potential of plant power together and pave the way for a healthier, more vibrant future!

Links

• Watch the documentary: Forks Over Knives

• Check out Maxime's Coaching Services

• Interested in more recipes? Check out Plant Based on a Budget

• Sign up for my weekly newsletter!

• Want more? Listen to this episode about the plant-based athlete with Robert Cheeke

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The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co. 

The pressure to be perfect is on the rise and it affects our everyday lives - from social media to parenting, work to hobbies. I sat down with Thomas Curran, professor of psychology and behavioral science at the London School of Economics, to unravel the complexities of perfectionism, providing you with knowledge and tools to strive for a healthier mindset. Thomas's expertise and extensive research culminates in his book "The Perfection Trap: Embracing the Power of Good Enough," where he guides us to reflect on the expectations we set for ourselves, the harmful comparisons we make, and how our relentless pursuit of success can often lead to failure and setbacks. We’ll navigate the world of athletics, where the pursuit of perfection is often unrivaled. From the grueling challenges of the Tour de France to my own personal racing experiences, we'll examine how striving for perfection can leave us feeling empty. Let’s tap into embracing a new definition of success and cultivate self-compassion along the way. Because isn't it beautiful to enjoy each day as you live it?

 Here are some key takeaways:

• Understanding the three types of perfectionism: self-oriented, socially prescribed, and avoidant perfectionism 
• The role of social media in perpetuating comparison and discontent
• The problem with growth mindset; it can lead to a constant need for more progress without accepting plateaus and regressions
• Why high performing athletes can feel empty without a first place medal because of the emphasis and celebration of one winner
• Practical strategies for counteracting perfectionistic tendencies, such as self-compassion and embracing our own humanity 

Links:

• Learn more about Thomas Curran
• Read The Perfection Trap by Thomas Curran
• Sign up for my weekly newsletter!
• Want more? Listen to this episode about the paradox of expectation and comparison

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The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Though mental well-being is the cornerstone of high-performance, achieving the elusive harmony between mind and body can feel impossible. I recorded this moving meditation as a guide for being mindful while riding a bike; encouraging us to connect with different parts of our body and senses while riding to help us stay focused and present.

Together, we'll unleash the potential of blending athletic pursuits with the power of meditation and discover new techniques and practices that will help you achieve the perfect balance between your mind and body. Let's hit the trails together and see if we can find our stride.

Here are the key takeaways:

• What is Moving Meditation: Understand the basic concept, different forms, and why it is essential for athletes.
• Implementing Moving Meditation: Learn practical tips and techniques to incorporate moving meditation into your training routine. 
• Real-Life Applications: Gain wisdom from personal anecdotes and lessons learned by an elite athlete practicing moving meditation.
• The Science Behind Moving Meditation: Delve deep into scientific research that supports the positive impact of meditation on athletic performance and mental health.

LINKS:

• Become one of my clients! Health Coaching | Mental Performance Coaching
• Learn about the science of meditation with Dave Vago
• Feel skeptical about mediation? Check out this interview with Jeff Warren
• Enroll in my Moxy & Grit Mindset Academy
• Check out my newsletter for productivity, mindset, and mental skills

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The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.