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.