Apparently, my identity change has a dress code: tie-dyed Crocs.

I wore them for the final nine miles of a 100-mile race after my shoes, legs, and better judgment had all filed separate complaints.

Funny story? Absolutely.

A motivational “never quit” lesson? Nope.

I’m proud I finished Jackpot Ultras, but I neglected the strength, mobility, and yoga that help keep me healthy. My body gave me information I did not want, and I kept walking anyway. Sometimes stubbornness looks like resilience... and sometimes it is simply stubbornness with a buckle waiting at the end.

What happened afterward was interesting:

Recovery meant months of biking instead of running. Running is where I process life, so I did not just lose training... I lost one of the places where I feel calm, confident, and most like myself.

Then I quit my job.

Career change. Identity change. No fixed location. No neat long-term plan. Just me, recording from my truck while my brain operates like a browser with 37 open tabs and mystery music playing somewhere.

In this solo episode of The Evolving Adventurer Podcast, I share four questions helping me through this life transition:

What role changed?

What story am I attaching to it?

What small piece of evidence can I create this week?

Who can support me without taking over?

That last one is still a work in progress. Guess what? I am, too.

Unfinished is not the same thing as imaginary.

Discomfort is not automatic proof that you should push harder. It may mean practice, prepare, pause, ask for help, or change direction.

The episode is live right now. This is what is happening right now in my life. Follow for the unfinished chapters—not just the polished stories told five years later after .

What role has changed for you, and what are you practicing now?

#TheEvolvingAdventurer #LifeTransition #IdentityChange #InjuryRecovery #Ultrarunning

This week on The Evolving Adventure, I’m joined by Amber Walker — adventurer, surfer, author, holistic wellness practitioner, and my first international guest! Amber joins from Punta de Mita, Mexico, where she can literally see two surf breaks from her recording spot. We talk about growing up in Anchorage, Alaska, competitive swimming, qualifying for Boston, inventing her own “30-tirement,” selling her stuff, buying a one-way ticket to Australia, running around New Zealand, surviving a crazy incident in Indonesia, and eventually finding her way into a completely different rhythm of life in Mexico.

This episode is full of the kind of stories that make you want to pack a bag, trust your gut, and maybe rethink the whole “I’ll live later” plan. Amber shares how solo travel helped her grow, why learning even a few words of the local language matters, what it means to enter a culture with respect, and how surfing became a form of floating meditation after years of pushing, training, and living in a state of hypervigilance. We also get into dance, play, intuition, chronic illness, faith, Peru, Barbados, wild birthday challenges, trail running through a blizzard, and that beautiful middle place where adventure becomes healing.

You'll want to focus later in the episode when Amber and I talk about a number of our bucket list places. You can find Amber at @originwellnessclinic and @breakfreefromchronicillness, and you can find me at @cactusmoose and @theevolvingadventure. Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts — this one is for anyone craving more adventure, more trust, more play, and a little less grind.

Transforming grief to strength… and moving on without a perfect plan with Christian Zepeda

How often do we delay our dreams because we don't have the entire plan figured out?

Today’s guest is endurance athlete, storyteller and adventurer Christian Zepeda. We explore his life journey, touching on the vulnerable topics of grief, resilience, identity, and the courage it takes to move forward when there is no certainty.

After losing his mother to cancer, Christian found himself searching for something deeper than achievement. Through endurance sports, travel, and eventually departing on a self-supported adventure, he discovered that some of life's biggest transformations begin with a simple decision:

"I don't know the route. I just know I'm going south."

You’ll hear a powerful conversation about how to navigate loss, trust your intuition, let go of the expectations that can keep us stuck and stagnating, and how to find meaning in the unknown. Hint: it starts with presence. 

This is an inspiring episode that reminds us, as John Wayne is quoted, “courage is being scared to death… but saddling up anyways.” If you’re staring at a major life transition, grieving and recovering from loss, questioning your current path, rebuilding after burnout, or simply feeling called toward something bigger, today you’ll come away with the heartfelt reminder that courage is rarely the absence of fear; courage is moving forward while you’re feeling that fear. 

Christian and I also discuss lessons he learned after losing his mother to cancer; how and why adventure is a powerful tool for healing; the difference between feeling safe and feeling alive; trusting yourself when there is no roadmap; what happens when you stop living to meet other people’s expectations; and why presence is often overlooked in modern life. 

The biggest takeaway for me is realizing that I’ve spent years preparing for a future life at the sacrifice of truly and deeply experiencing the flavors of life that are happening in the present:

I’ll start my business when I’m feeling confident and financially settled.

I’ll quit the job when I’ve saved a certain amount.

I’ll sign up for that race when my training has been great for three months. 

I’ll chase that dream when I’m done working this season. 

It’s funny how certainty and safety are an illusion. As attributed to Benjamin Franklin: "He who would trade liberty for some temporary security, deserves neither liberty nor security."

Christian's story reminds us all that growth doesn't begin when we know exactly how everything will unfold, at a time that’s convenient with nothing else going on. Growth starts when we take the next best step for ourselves, even when it feels like we're walking out into the dark without star, a headlamp, or any reference point. 

If you have been challenged with anxiety, overwhelm, self-doubt, or the feeling that life is passing by while you're waiting for the "right time," this episode offers a refreshing perspective:

You do not need the entire map today, friends.

You just need the courage to take the next step.

Listen today on Spotify (and follow the show!) here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4ZwZSywLvOO8uOQB2BGcX0?si=tC1A2X6hQPCR4GGzHo6kcA

Be sure to follow @cactusmoose, @theevolvingadventure and @christianzepeda2

What happens when you overhear someone filming a "manifesting" video in a coffee shop and decide to start a conversation? Tune in to the latest episode of The Evolving Adventurer podcast!

Today you’ll learn how Madi is documenting an ambitious goal: buying or selling 12 homes in 12 months as a brand-new realtor in Arizona! While many people would wait until they feel confident, experienced, or financially secure, Madi took the leap, and is growing her wings on the way down… while sharing all the ups and downs publicly. While she’s yet to officially close a deal—at least as of when we recorded this—she speaks with a certainty that it will transpire.

We have a wide-ranging discussion with the core tenet being her willingness to do things scared. Madi has a varied background including being a police recruit, baker, doula, business owner, baker, homeschooling mom, bodybuilder, and now, a realtor. Along the way she learned that courage isn't confidence; it’s taking the next step when confidence hasn't shown up yet. Her family's mantra says it perfectly: "Even when we're scared, we be brave anyways." That's a lesson a lot of us need right now.

We also talked about a topic relevant to all: personal safety. After receiving serious threats while hosting open houses, Madi chose to invest in additional training to be prepared. It is a powerful reminder that growth isn't always about chasing dreams; sometimes growth comes when you are protecting them. This is a fun—and deep—conversation where you’ll about entrepreneurship, resilience, personal safety, authenticity on social media, balancing motherhood with work, and what it’s like to pursue a dream before you feel ready.

If you’re looking to building a life on your own terms, I think you'll enjoy this one. As Madi reminds us, "The only difference between successful people and unsuccessful people is that successful people did it scared.”

Remember, courage isn’t the absence of fear… it’s feeling it and moving forward anyway. Share this episode with a friend who needs that reminder, and let us know in the comments something that you went for while feeling scared.

You can follow the “Manifesting with Madi” series on her account @Madison.azrealtor and you can find the whole interview on Spotify here:

• Stay Ready Training Arizona
• USCCA Instructor Profile - Chris Haynes (Stay Ready Training)
• Madi's Instagram

What would you do if someone tells you that you're not built for the thing you love most?

In today’s episode of The Evolving Adventurer, I chat with ultrarunner, coach, mom and adventurer Bri Boley. What started off as a funny case of mistaken identity at Javelina Jundred this past October led to a powerful conversation about grit, self-belief, and choosing your own path—even when “experts,” injuries, and fear suggest otherwise.

Bri shares how a physical therapist once told her she didn't have a "runner's body.” That comment—or her Aries nature—fueled her determination: she went from struggling through three-mile runs and finishing last at a 5K race to thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, racing ultramarathons, and coaching endurance athletes around the world.

We venture into the challenges, and realities, of balancing adventure, motherhood, work, and training. Bri opens up about creating guilt-free time for herself, unexpected superpowers that come from being a busy parent, and why sustainable success is about much more than mileage, heart rate data, or race results. You’ll learn lessons that transcend the endurance space: different perspectives on long-term growth, resilience, and building a life that supports your passions.

Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, healer, parent, or simply someone trying to reconnect with the things that make you feel most alive, today’s conversation is packed with wisdom, humor, and inspiration. From solo backpacking adventures at 17 to Cocodona crewing stories to rediscovering joy after burnout, Bri reminds us all that sometimes the most important journey isn't about going farther—it's about returning to who you were before the world told you what you could or couldn't become.

Comment BRI and I’ll send you the link.

Timestamps:

02:29 - How a whim led to eleven years living in a mountain town 

03:36 - Bree's upbringing in Corvallis, Oregon, and her early sports journey 

05:24 - From cheerleading to running and overcoming injury challenges 

07:51 - Discovering her passion for trail and ultrarunning 

11:25 - Building endurance through long-distance hikes and trail adventures 

12:47 - Transition to ultrarunning with the Colorado Trail and PCT 

13:36 - The mindset of grit and determination that drives her pursuits 

16:24 - How her own injury history fuels her coaching approach 

17:50 - The importance of long-term vision in athletic development 

22:08 - Supporting athletes of all levels with empathy and process-oriented goals 

25:58 - Balancing training with family life and mom superpowers 

28:34 - The significance of time efficiency and intentional self-care 

32:36 - Embracing solo adventures to build resilience and confidence 

36:28 - Crewing at Cocodona and supporting incredible performances 

43:02 - Bri’s upcoming challenge: Oregon Outback 230 in 2026 

50:03 - Her love for exploring new trails and avoiding race repetition 

58:36 - The power of solitude and quiet in long-distance adventures 

62:03 - Connecting with Bree: social media and coaching opportunities

Resources & Links:

• TrainRight Coaching — Bri's coaching platform
• Cascade Endurance — Endurance coaching organization
• Born to Run by Christopher McDougall — Book that inspired Bri
• Wonderland Trail — Epic trail around Mount Rainier
• Instagram — Social media profile

Barbie the Bomb Builder to Badass

Join us today, friends, as veteran Natasha Swartley, the wondering--and wandering--lost unicorn @ shares her powerful journey. From starting her career as Barbie the Bomb Builder, to taking bold, brave steps exploring America, going back to school not once, but twice, and how networking led to some amazing opportunities. 

From her early days in a toxic household to a successful military career, from feeling isolated as a female veteran to finding community in trail running, Natasha walks us through the ups, downs and laughs of boot camp, being a foot whisperer thanks to NOLS W-EMT training, and resources available for veterans with her signature—and candid—storytelling.

She is the embodiment of strength, perseverance and courage… and perhaps she’ll work on your blistered feet at an upcoming ultra! You’ll learn the power of resilience and finding the right community as Natasha shares feelings of disconnection, and how asking for help changed her in a beautiful way: trails literally and figuratively saved her life. 

It’s hard not to be inspired after listening to the episode; Natasha encourages anyone facing adversity to find strength within and to seek support — whether through military service, outdoor adventures, or connecting with a community. I’m excited to follow her journey on this exciting new chapter! 

Can you keep up with the shenanigans of @wonderlostunicorn ??

Timestamps:

01:04 - Early motivation to serve and joining the Navy

03:13 - Why Natasha chose aviation ordnance and her military experiences

08:25 - Transition from military to civilian life and dealing with mental health

12:19 - Volunteer roles at ultra races and impacting runners' lives

16:27 - Overcoming veteran depression and seeking help

20:53 - Understanding veteran suicide and suicide prevention efforts

25:04 - Community support and how trail running mirrors military teamwork

27:01 - Training the mind for hard, unpredictable conditions

29:13 - Practical race strategies: focus, hydration, and mental clarity

32:31 - Supporting others at aid stations and the importance of simple acts

37:51 - Memorable race moments and impactful stories

44:37 - Fulfillment found in service, volunteering, and community involvement

46:47 - Upcoming races and educational pursuits in Colorado

52:44 - Moving to Colorado, new opportunities, and dreams realized

61:56 - Advice to younger Natasha and lessons for others

64:40 - Closing thoughts: strength, worthiness, and community

Links:

• Instagram⁠⁠⁠
• NOLS Wilderness EMT Program
• Project Healing Waters
• Team RWB
• How to Talk So Kids Will Listen
• VRE Program (Veterans Rapid Engagement)⁠
• GI Bill Benefits⁠

Thank you for listening today, friends! We’ve got a treat today, as Corinne Shalvoy, founder of Women Can. shares her inspiring journey of walking away from a high-level career in corporate America because it no longer aligned with her values and passions to creating a movement to celebrate women’s pursuits through all walks of life.

The Women Can. Movement symbolizes strength and capability and goes beyond running to celebrate whatever a woman is passionate about going after. Corinne’s journey resonates with many, as she used a simple shirt with the message "women can do anything" as a catalyst for change. The Women Can. shirt she created has become more than just clothing; it is a statement of empowerment and a reminder for women everywhere that they have control over their narratives.

Women’s sports, and the narrative around women in sports, is changing rapidly and dramatically, particularly since The Cocodona 250 - a race Corinne commentated for the 4th year in a row. Corinne shares her thoughts on how to increase women’s participation in races, and how men can advocate for and support all women. The Women Can. movement is making an impact in the running world and beyond. Today you’ll discover how Corinne’s passion for running and community building is reshaping perceptions and empowering women everywhere.

Corinne Shalvoy is not just an athlete; she is a trailblazer who turned her passion—and an idea from a shirt—into purpose. A lifelong runner who believes her most competitive days are still ahead at the age of 43, you’ll learn how she grew up in the Colorado mountains, overcame challenges with body image, and reconnected with her passion for running. It was while reflecting on her life direction that she initiated a change from corporate America to focusing on what’s truly important to her. Her life experience, including her journey with running and as a media personality, shaped the vision for Women Can.

You’ll also get Corinne’s thoughts on the significance of women breaking records in ultras, the power of community and supportive environments, and strategies to increase women’s participation in races and physical activity. She also shares the important role that mentorship and coaching played in her personal journey to where she is today. We also venture into balancing family, coaching and community engagement, the next generation of athletes and ways for men and allies to support women’s endeavors without intimidation.

As Corinne shares today, you have the power to redefine your path. Embracing your true self and passions can lead to incredible change. What's out there beyond where you currently are?

Women Can. Shopify  

Women Can. Pressio shop

Women Can. Instagram

Women Can. Substack

Thank you for listening, friends! Today we’ve got Wynonna Fulgham talking about her deep connection to her Diné culture, inspirational ultrarunning journey, and her role as a Native woman in the running community. You’ll learn how running is a spiritual practice, means of healing, and a form of cultural expression for indigenous communities. You’ll also find out what it’s like to finish 100 challenging, mountain miles at the Bradshaw Brute race, sleep for 4 hours, then start the 125 mile journey of Sedona Canyons as part of Cocodona!

Wynonna shares about the profound connection between indigenous culture, land, spirituality, and running. Her story is one of resilience, community, and honoring ancestral traditions through both physical endurance and emotional healing. Each run is a ritual based on connection: to yourself, your community and your ancestors. Each step is a prayer, a way to honor your journey while acknowledging the challenges that come along the way. Wynonna shares how to find strength in vulnerability, and to honor the journey together. 

Prepare to learn about Diné culture, and to be inspired by Wynonna’s physical and mental endurance… and how running can be a ceremony that shapes identity. Wynonna is a certified coach to help indigenous women runners get to the start line of ultras. Connect with her on Instagram @blacksheep_running

Key topics

• Wynonna's background: Diné woman, mother, and math teacher
• The significance of running in Diné culture and traditional ceremonies
• Her experience with ultras like Cocodona 250 and Sedona Canyons
• The spiritual and ancestral meaning behind her racing and land connection
• The role of indigenous women in creating representation through Native Women Run
• How running helps community healing, trauma recovery, and cultural preservation
• The ceremonial aspects of training, race, and finish as a spiritual journey
• Supporting indigenous runners financially and through land acknowledgment
• The importance of curiosity, respect, and cultural sensitivity in outdoor spaces
• Wynonna's plans for future races and goals for 2026

Timestamps

02:04 - Wynonna’s background and cultural identity as a Diné woman

03:03 - Experiences with the documentary "The Cut-Off" and race challenges

05:34 - The spiritual significance of land, drumming, and ceremonies in races

09:03 - Emotions in finishing and the ceremonial closure of races

12:03 - Connection of running to Diné culture and ancestral practices

16:50 - The evolution of her running journey since puberty

23:02 - Giving offerings and respecting land during races

24:42 - The symbolism of sacred mountains and ancestral strength

26:37 - How running acts as a healing and cultural act

36:38 - Wynonna’s role as a teacher and community role model

39:12 - Increasing representation of indigenous women in ultrarunning

43:10 - Supporting Native Women Run and its mission

47:28 - Land acknowledgment and cultural respect for outdoor enthusiasts

50:45 - How to support indigenous runners through donations and awareness

53:09 - Wynonna’s future plans and upcoming races in 2026

55:26 - The Burrito League experience and community engagement

62:38 - Reflections on community, support, and racing experiences

67:05 - Connecting with Wynonna and supporting her journey ahead

Resources & Links

• The Cut-Off Documentary
• Native Women Run | Support the organization
• Mountain Outpost YouTube | Follow Winona's journey
• Cocodona 250 race | Learn more about the race

Connect with Wynonna

• Instagram

Thank you for listening today, friends: we’ve got Brenna Thiessen joining today from Calgary!

Brenna shares her journey today from shy non-runner to run club leader hosting weekly events, shooting for a Boston, Chicago and New York qualifying time at the Calgary Marathon. She chats with us about her run journey, relocating to Calgary, stepping away from running, and the improbable way she became a run club host with her club, Fun Frugal Fridays.

In today’s episode, Brenna shares how her marathon goals evolved after her first race in Minneapolis, where she pushed through feeling terrible and still crossed the finish line proud. She breaks down her training approach, including navigating Calgary’s unpredictable weather—from chinook warmth to snow in May—and the importance of heat and hydration strategies on race day. 

The importance of community is a theme that runs strong on this podcast, and today’s episode doesn’t disappoint. You’ll hear the passion in her voice: discover the secret to making big life changes, from cross-country moves to launching a community organization, and how running has helped Brenna overcome shy tendencies and foster a sense of belonging. 

Whether you’re just heading out for your first run, training for your first 10k or a seasoned runner, remember: it’s all about taking that first step on the journey. Brenna’s story is packed with practical tips on managing training while maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle, including diet hacks, cross-training, and the importance of asking for help. She exemplifies how embracing vulnerability and staying true to yourself unlocks opportunities beyond your wildest dreams.

Connect with Brenna and join her Calgary run community on Instagram at @iambthiessen and @FunFrugalFridayRunner

What has running taught you about yourself?  

#EvolvingAdventure #CalgaryMarathon #RunningCommunity #MarathonTraining #YYCRunCrew #BurritoLeague

Timestamps: 

02:18 - Her personal best and recent race insights

04:14 - Calgary marathon week festivities and community events

06:33 - Insights on marathon participation rates and community size

08:23 - Brenna’s journey into running and overcoming health challenges

11:55 - Starting and growing the Fun Frugal Friday run club

13:36 - Managing weather challenges and event logistics in Calgary

15:49 - Community engagement and demographic reach of her run groups

17:50 - Participation during Calgary Stampede and weather considerations

19:27 - Weather impact on training and race day prep

21:04 - Tapering, race week activities, and marathon day plans

22:37 - Cross-training, alternative activities, and recovery strategies

23:37 - Nutrition, hydration, gels, and fueling for races

26:35 - Transitioning into trail running and significant trail races

29:45 - Challenge of trail running and race experiences like Minotaur

35:19 - Embracing new opportunities and future race plans

36:34 - Support systems, partnerships, and organizing community events

40:40 - Skills needed to start and manage a run club

43:36 - Moving from Vancouver to Calgary and lessons on making life changes

46:15 - The importance of community, belonging, and personal growth

48:22 - Advice to follow passions and staying true to oneself

49:47 - Connecting with Brenna and her Calgary run community

Resources & Links:

• Fun Frugal Friday Run Club
• Brenna Thiessen on Instagram
• Lululemon Calgary
• Primal Sauna & Cold Plunge
• Run Calgary
• Burrito League
• Minotaur Race
• BMO Vancouver Half Marathon

Connect with Brenna:

• Instagram - @iambthiessen or @funfrugalfridayrunners

Thank you for listening today, friends! We've got a fun episode with Heidi Garner today, in which we'll learn what it's like to create artwork and merchandise for races, run a small business while navigating family schedules, and plan out an award-winning Javelina Jundred costume.

Heidi also shares some of her hard-earned wisdom with us, including the relevance of squirrels on cocaine, the evolution of her creative process, and why it's important to train in the dark. Heidi’s stories remind us that sometimes, the most extraordinary moments happen when the world goes quiet and we venture into the dark.

Heidi is an incredible artist, accomplished runners in ultras and on roads, and volunteer in the community. She isn't just an ultrarunner: she's an artist, mother, and passionate storyteller who believes that the little moments shared on the trail are what make races so special. She lives with her husband and children near the Canyons and Western States courses.

The long quote Heidi provides comes from Jenny Lawson's book How To Be Okay When Nothing Is Okay.

Use the discount code Greggi15 for 15% off on Heidi's website

https://heidigarnerstudio.com/

Topics we cover include:

• Why Heidi loves night running, and how it transforms the racing experience
• Spiritual and emotional benefits of running in the dark
• How her artwork combines a love of trail running with the ultra community
• The storytelling behind custom race art and apparel
• Behind the scenes stories and memorable moments at Javelina and Western States
• The importance of community, support, and shared moments that make ultrarunning more than just a sport
• Balancing creativity, training and family schedules… even during race season

Timestamps:

02:03 - Night running as a favorite ultra feature

03:26 - The magic of running through the night

05:10 - How Heidi got into ultrarunning

06:40 - Transition from road running to trail ultras

07:41 - The trail community and trail races

10:00 - Family involvement and trail running for kids

13:20 - Heidi’s art development and connection to ultrarunning

17:44 - Creating race-specific apparel and collaborations

22:40 - The process of designing race merchandise

26:07 - How Heidi balances her creative work and running schedule

29:54 - Race planning, training, and managing life with four kids

32:23 - The importance of community and shared race experiences

36:45 - Memorable trail moments and meaningful conversations

38:48 - Small moments that create lasting memories in ultras

40:00 - Trail gifts and surprises on the trail

43:00 - Trail safety, first aid, and respecting nature

47:49 - Costumes, race antics, and fun race traditions

55:27 - Famous race moments and quirky race costumes

57:03 - Family support, community involvement, and race plans

64:19 - Upcoming events and exciting collaborations

67:40 - Costume stories, race highlights, and playful race culture

75:39 - The balance of humor, community, and trail adventure

78:35 - Connecting with Heidi on social media and supporting her work

79:01 - Closing thoughts and upcoming races

Links

• Heidi Garner Studio — Official website and shop
• Heidi Garner Instagram — Follow Heidi’s latest designs and race updates
• Western States Course Info
• Javelina Jundred
• Aravaipa Running
• Jenny Lawson
• How To Be Okay When Nothing Is Okay