What does it take to push past fear, redefine your limits, and keep chasing adventure—no matter what life throws your way?

In this episode, I sit down with Isaac Levinson, a multi-sport athlete and former US National Slalom Team member, as he opens up about his incredible journey through adventure sports, the life-altering back injury that changed everything, and his recent autoimmune diagnosis.

Isaac shares powerful insights on: ✅ The fine line between physical and mental discomfort ✅ How mindfulness fuels healing and growth ✅ The power of choice in turning fear into joy ✅ Coping with disappointment and setbacks ✅ Redefining goals to stay in the game for the long haul

Whether you're an athlete, an outdoor enthusiast, or just someone looking for inspiration to overcome obstacles, this episode is packed with wisdom, resilience, and the true spirit of adventure.

🎙️ Tune in now and get ready to see challenges in a whole new light!

Want to uplevel your leadership game? This episode is a must-listen!

Jennifer McClanahan, a trusted advisor to C-suite leaders, sits down with me for a powerful conversation about human-centered leadership.

We dive deep into the real challenges of leadership—taking risks, building strong relationships, practicing vulnerability, and communicating with impact to create a thriving workplace culture. Jennifer breaks down power dynamics in organizations and debunks the myth that being human-centered comes at the cost of profitability.

You'll learn:

• How emotional intelligence shapes successful leadership
• Why connection across differences is key to innovation
• The power of recognizing individuals for their inherent strengths
• Proven strategies for tackling difficult conversations with confidence

If you're ready to lead with clarity, courage, and impact, don't miss this game-changing conversation!

In this solo episode, I'm sharing with you my experience returning to some of the rivers in Western North Carolina that have changed since Helene.

Learning 'new' rivers made me realize that, although some of the rivers challenged me before Helene, they were still in my comfort zone because I knew them so well.

Discovering new features and rapids challenged me to practice the strategies that I coach, including how to face scary stories and beta about a river without letting it derail my confidence.

If you've ever found yourself overanalyzing rapids or battling self-doubt in high-pressure moments, this episode will give you actionable strategies and thought-provoking questions to help you.

And, as always, the lessons learned on the river go far beyond kayaking—they're the same skills that help us navigate life's challenges too.

In this episode, Libby Hinsley, a doctor of physical therapy, certified yoga therapist and author, talks about her experiences with hypermobility syndromes and how discomfort can be a powerful catalyst for transformation.

As teacher/instructor trainers in our respective disciplines, we share effective teaching strategies and the evolution of moving from the need to be over-prepared to having the confidence to leave time and space for creativity and being present with students. Whether you're a kayak instructor, a yoga teacher, or both, this conversation offers valuable insights for your practice and your students.

We also unpack the courage it takes to build a business that supports your physical and mental well-being while making a sustainable living.

And, if you've ever thought yoga isn't for you because you're "not flexible," Libby busts that myth and explains why yoga can be a game-changer for paddlers.

Join us for an inspiring discussion that reframes discomfort—not as something to avoid, but as a powerful force for growth, change and success.

This week, I sit down with my dear friend from college, Jiffer Bourguignon, for a heartfelt and hilarious conversation about life, discomfort, and the unexpected ways we find connection.

Jiff shares what it's been like living as an American expat in Germany for decades—navigating cultural nuances, language mishaps, and the kind of miscommunications that are so awkward, they're funny.

Jiffer talks about serving as an election observer in Afghanistan, and how she found an unlikely bridge to local communities: food. By stepping into kitchens and learning traditional dishes, she forged deep relationships in a place where connection wasn't always easy.

We also dive into some real talk—her challenges raising three teenagers, the rollercoaster of perimenopause, and all the messy, beautiful moments in between.

Join us for a conversation about discomfort that's equal parts funny, insightful, and deeply human.

From the moment I first spoke with Vishnu Das—an experienced Ayurvedic doctor and teacher—I knew I could listen to him talk about Ayurveda and yoga forever. Now, after nearly 15 years of mentorship, I'm beyond excited to share his insights with you.

In this rich and thought-provoking conversation, we explore the power of self-awareness in navigating discomfort and the profound role Ayurveda plays in understanding our unique nature. Vishnu shares invaluable wisdom on acceptance, motivation, and the transformative power of simple yet intentional lifestyle shifts.

Expect personal stories, practical strategies, and deep reflections on:

✨ Embracing discomfort as a catalyst for growth and healing ✨ Ayurveda's guidance for aligning with your unique constitution ✨ The magic of morning rituals and self-care practices ✨ Lessons from spiritual teachers and the art of presence in relationships ✨ The discipline-freedom paradox—and why structure is the key to liberation

This episode is an invitation to rethink your relationship with discomfort, tune into your inner wisdom, and take small but powerful steps toward balance and well-being.

If you're ready for a conversation that's both deeply insightful and immediately applicable, this one's for you. Tune in now.🎧

In this episode, I'm stoked to welcome back my husband, Andrew Holcombe—a skilled paddler, natural leader, and my favorite partner-in-adventure —for another heartfelt (and sometimes funny) chat about tackling the discomfort zone in close relationships.

We dive into our own experiences, sharing the good, the awkward, and the downright messy moments that come with navigating communication, boundaries, and the art of finding humor in life's challenges.

Together, we unpack how understanding emotional reactions can transform communication and deepen connection, while also exploring self-acceptance, body positivity, and the power of creating supportive environments.

It's a real, relatable conversation about balancing autonomy with offering help, embracing emotional intelligence, and growing stronger—individually and together.

If you want to be a better partner in adventure, tune and gain insights from a couple who've been adventuring together for 20+ years and still loving it.

What's your theme for the upcoming year?

This week my longtime friend and entrepreneur, Michelle Tennant Nicholson, joins me in a conversation that will help you create a powerful theme for the new year.

We share personal journeys of setting annual themes and stepping into the discomfort zones that fuel personal growth. From embracing risks and committing to exhilarating experiences, to letting go of habits and relationships that no longer serve, we offer a fresh perspective on creating a life you love.

Together, we dive into the art of reverse-engineering success, reframing failure as feedback, and realigning with purpose when the path gets rocky (like when Michelle's homestead was destroyed by Hurricane Helene and she pivoted to van life).

Full of personal stories and practical tips, this episode is your guide to choosing your path forward with intention, courage, and a dash of daring. :)

Tune in to make 2025 your best year yet!

In this episode of the Discomfort Zone Podcast, Anna sits down with Gerry Seavo-James, Deputy Campaign Director for the Sierra Club's Outdoors for All campaign. Together, they explore the transformative power of equitable outdoor access and the discomfort zones we face in work, play and building community.

Gerry shares personal stories of navigating risk, overcoming gear and financial barriers, and challenging judgments within outdoor communities. From skill-building through training and coaching to fostering community through intentional outreach, this episode is packed with actionable strategies for making the outdoors more inclusive for everyone.

Anna and Gerry also dive into the art of balancing diverse passions and interests, offering insights on how this multifaceted approach enriches their work—and yours. Whether you're passionate about building community, integrating varied interests into your career, or simply finding your place in the great outdoors, this conversation will leave you inspired and ready to take action.

This week on The Discomfort Zone Podcast, I'm joined by Boyd Ruppelt—a seasoned whitewater kayaker, guide, and instructor—who shares his wisdom on confronting fear and managing risk in high-stakes environments.

Boyd offers a deep dive into the art of risk management and the guiding philosophies that shape his approach to both pursuing and guiding adventure sports. Together, we explore the unique mental challenges of kayaking and draw parallels to other sports Boyd is passionate about - skydiving and surfing.

Boyd's stories and insights shine a light on how understanding fear can transform it into a powerful tool for growth and self-discovery.

If you've ever wondered how to embrace risk, push your limits, and cultivate a richer, more fearless engagement with life, this episode is for you. Tune in and let Boyd's journey inspire your own path through discomfort and beyond!