In this captivating podcast episode, I had the privilege of interviewing Oscar Chalupsky, a remarkable individual who has achieved great success as a twelve-time world surf-ski champion and cancer survivor. Oscar shares his incredible journey and the valuable experiences he gained throughout his career. It all started when a friend diagnosed him with pancreatic cancer, and he discovered the banting (keto) diet, initially met with skepticism but eventually embraced, leading to significant improvements in his performance. He opens up about his fierce rivalry with Grant Kenny, a formidable Australian competitor, and how defeating him in the Molokai race became a turning point in his career.

Reflecting on the various challenges he faced, including being banned from races, Oscar shares how he persevered by continuing to train and compete. He even ventured into golf for a while before making a triumphant return to surf-ski racing, clinching his twelfth world championship title at the remarkable age of 49. Oscar attributes his longevity in the sport to his unwavering focus on technique, willingness to experiment with different diets, and adaptability to the changing needs of his body.

Throughout the podcast, Oscar discusses his personal battle with cancer, sharing the pain he endured before receiving a diagnosis and the initial disbelief that followed. He candidly talks about the challenges during chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant, including the side effects and impact on his immune system. Despite the hardships, Oscar maintains an inspiring positive attitude, following a ketogenic diet, practicing regular fasting, and staying active. He emphasizes the significance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and admires others fighting against cancer.

The conversation delves into various topics such as CrossFit, bone marrow cancer, and the importance of resistance training for bone strength. Oscar shares his mindset of having a winning attitude, instilled in him by his father's incentive to win a race at a young age, driving him towards success in all aspects of life. He highlights the value of having a coach and adhering to strict regimes to achieve greatness. Oscar reflects on his career choices, including working in insurance and starting his own companies, while prioritizing personal development through books, tapes, and motivational resources. He mentions influential figures like Tom Hopkins and recommends captivating reads like "Unbroken" and "Seabiscuit."

The podcast also touches on health, fitness, and mental well-being. Oscar shares his disagreement with vegetarianism and veganism, drawing examples from books about survival and extreme physical feats. He explains how the ketogenic diet enables him to eat less while still performing at a high level in races and endurance events. Oscar emphasizes the importance of social support, motivation, and goal-setting for maintaining good mental health and achieving fitness goals. He encourages listeners to seek reliable information and avoid being swayed by misleading claims about nutrition. The detrimental effects of orange juice are discussed, and the significance of a healthy support system comprising family and friends is highlighted.

In closing, Oscar shares his social media handles and expresses his genuine desire to inspire and assist others through his experiences with cancer and healthy living. His remarkable journey, resilience, and dedication to excellence serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance and the relentless pursuit of victory.

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