#50 Eat Better, Live Longer by EC Synkowski - Debunking Nutrition Myths, The 800 Gram Challenge, Protein For Athletes, Stop Chasing Diet Trends

"When you understand nutrition isn’t about specific food choices, you stop chasing the trends"🥗💪🏾<br /><br />n this episode of <em>The Ageless Athlete Podcast</em>, I sit down with EC Synkowski, the founder of OptimizeMe Nutrition and the creator of the groundbreaking 800-Gram Challenge. EC’s no-nonsense, science-backed approach cuts through the noise of trendy diets and focuses on what really matters for longevity, vitality, and health. Whether you’re an everyday athlete or just looking for practical ways to improve your nutrition, this episode is packed with actionable insights.</p><b>Key Takeaways</b></p><ul><li><b>The 800-Gram Challenge</b>: A simple framework to ensure you’re getting enough fruits and vegetables—just add 800 grams of produce to your diet daily.</li><li><b>Longevity Starts with Basics</b>: EC explains how whole foods, maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and proper sleep drive long-term health.</li><li><b>Protein Simplified</b>: Most people don’t need a gram of protein per pound of body weight—EC shares a practical guideline that balances health and lifestyle.</li><li><b>Debunking Nutrition Myths</b>: Why potatoes, bananas, and carrots are great additions to your diet, and why you don’t need fancy “superfoods.”</li><li><b>Supplements Are Overrated</b>: If you’re eating a balanced diet, supplements are unnecessary for most people.</li><li><b>Consistency Over Perfection</b>: It’s not about being perfect but about doing the right things more often than not.</li><li><b>Seasonal Eating Tips</b>: How to manage nutrition during long adventures or when access to fresh produce is limited.</li><li><b>Mental Strategies for Nutrition</b>: Focus on what you can add, not what you have to take away, to make healthier eating more sustainable.</li></ul><b>Connect with EC Synkowski</b></p><ul><li><b>Website</b>: <a href="https://optimizemenutrition.com">OptimizeMe Nutrition</a></li><li><b>Instagram</b>: <a href="https://instagram.com/optimizemenutrition">@OptimizeMeNutrition</a></li><li><b>Podcast</b>: The Consistency Project</li></ul>Physivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code <em>AGELESS15</em> at checkout for a special discount! <br /><br />https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15</p> If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜<br /><br />🟢 <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/7xbbL2HltguGs7jj0Z4cON">Spotify</a><br /><br />🎵<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1725368341">Apple Music</a><br /><br />▶️ <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@agelessathletepodcast/">YouTube</a><br /><br />📸<a href="https://www.instagram.com/agelessathletepodcast/">Instagram </a><br /><br />💧<a href="https://agelessathlete.substack.com/">Substack Blog</a> </p>

00:52:13

#49 - Revisited: Wayne Willoughby - From Severe Disability to Big Wall Summits, a Rock Climber's Transformative Story

<b>"It's not easy for me just to make it through your average day, like I almost fall over and do fall over just in my kitchen trying to make dinner. But if I'm still able to accomplish these things that are seen as goals... it enriches my life in so many different ways." 🙌🏽</b></p>We're thrilled to bring back one of our most inspiring conversations for those who might have missed it the first time. Meet Wayne Willoughby—an adaptive rock climber who defied incredible odds and has climbed El Cap not once, not twice, but an unbelievable 26 times. 🧗‍♂️🏔️</p>From battling polio and disabilities since infancy to overcoming severe injuries, Wayne's story is about resilience, creativity, and an unstoppable spirit. In this re-release, Wayne shares how he developed the grit and deep gratitude that empowered him to conquer seemingly impossible climbs. He even became the first adaptive climber to reach the summits of both El Capitan and The Diamond in under 24 hours. ⚡</p>With his infectious and humble demeanor, Wayne will inspire you to see challenges in a new light. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or someone looking for an awe-inspiring story of perseverance, this conversation is as relevant and uplifting today as it was when we first aired it.</p>Don't miss out on this chance to revisit a real-life superhero who, even in his 70s, is still defying limits. Buckle up for a story that will challenge your perspective on what it means to be an elite athlete and a human being.</p>Physivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code <em>AGELESS15</em> at checkout for a special discount! <br /><br />https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15</p> If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜<br /><br />🟢 <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/7xbbL2HltguGs7jj0Z4cON">Spotify</a><br /><br />🎵<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1725368341">Apple Music</a><br /><br />▶️ <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@agelessathletepodcast/">YouTube</a><br /><br />📸<a href="https://www.instagram.com/agelessathletepodcast/">Instagram </a><br /><br />💧<a href="https://agelessathlete.substack.com/">Substack Blog</a> </p>

01:25:49

#47 - Commandments for Longevity and Fulfillment in Sport and Life - Part II

In this sequel to our popular “5 Commandments” episode, we bring you five more principles for achieving longevity and fulfillment in sport and life. These lessons, drawn from the incredible lives of world-class athletes who have starred in this show, go beyond training techniques to explore mental resilience, community, and balance.</p>Through their inspiring journeys, these athletes show us what it means to push limits, live with purpose, and give back. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, an athlete, or just someone looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom.</p>Key Takeaways:</p><ol><li><b>Balance Passion with Patience:</b><ul><li><em>Hans Florine</em>, El Capitan’s legendary speed climber, shares how consistency and calculated risks paved his path to greatness.</li><li><em>Meghan Canfield</em>, an ultra-running powerhouse who peaked in her 50s, teaches us the value of perseverance and pacing in both sport and life.</li></ul></li><li><b>Build Community:</b><ul><li><em>Maggie & Chuck Odette</em>, a climbing power couple, explain how their shared love of climbing has forged deeper connections and mutual growth.</li><li><em>David Wiens</em>, Hall of Fame mountain biker, highlights how community and mentorship elevated his career and the sport itself.</li></ul></li><li><b>Give Back to Find Fulfillment:</b><ul><li><em>Gary Linden</em>, a pioneer of big-wave surfing, shows how creating opportunities for others amplifies personal success.</li><li><em>Katherine Hayes</em>, an adaptive sports trailblazer, reflects on her life’s work making outdoor sports accessible for everyone.</li></ul></li><li><b>Strengthen Your Mind Daily:</b><ul><li><em>Hazel Findlay</em>, one of the world’s top trad climbers, shares how mastering her mind helped her overcome fear and self-doubt on the rock.</li><li><em>Marshall Ulrich</em>, ultramarathon icon, talks about harnessing mental resilience to endure 3,000 miles of running across America.</li></ul></li><li><b>Pursue Balance Between Sport and Life:</b><ul><li><em>Jeremiah Bishop</em>, pro mountain biker and adventurer, reveals how he balances family, career, and his passion for impossible routes.</li><li><em>Ben Moon</em>, climbing icon and founder of Moon Climbing, reflects on achieving his peak twice—decades apart—and creating a legacy of innovation in training.</li></ul></li><li><b>References:</b><ul><li><a href="#">Hans Florine's Episode</a></li><li><a href="#">Meghan Canfield's Episode</a></li><li><a href="#">Maggie & Chuck Odette's Episode</a></li><li><a href="#">David Wiens' Episode</a></li><li><a href="#">Gary Linden's Episode</a></li><li><a href="#">Katherine Hayes’ Episode</a></li><li><a href="#">Hazel Findlay's Episode</a></li><li><a href="#">Marshall Ulrich's Episode</a></li><li><a href="#">Jeremiah Bishop's Episode</a></li><li><a href="#">Ben Moon's Episode</a></li></ul></li></ol>Physivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code <em>AGELESS15</em> at checkout for a special discount! <br /><br />https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15</p>If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜<br /><br />🟢 <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/7xbbL2HltguGs7jj0Z4cON">Spotify</a><br /><br />🎵<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1725368341">Apple Music</a><br /><br />▶️ <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@agelessathletepodcast/">YouTube</a><br /><br />📸<a href="https://www.instagram.com/agelessathletepodcast/">Instagram </a><br /><br />💧<a href="https://agelessathlete.substack.com/">Substack Blog</a> </p>

00:35:47

#46 Timmy O'Neill - The Lifewish Mindset: Masterclass From A Big Wall Speed Climber On Replacing Fear With Wonder, And How Nature Can Transform You When You Live With Purpose

"Living with purpose and humor creates a ‘lifewish’—celebrating every day and, if you’re lucky enough to climb high, bringing someone along with you.”🏔️<br /><br />Today's guest is none other than the legendary Timmy O’Neill. For those of you who know his name, you'll recognize the extraordinary feats he’s accomplished in climbing. But to introduce Timmy as merely a climber would be to only scratch the surface. What you're about to hear is more than just a conversation about climbing—it's a deep dive into a <b>philosophy of life</b> that transcends any sport.</p>Timmy O’Neill is a master at weaving together an incredible, multifaceted career. He has not only shattered records on the vertical walls of Yosemite—completing daring speed ascents of iconic routes like El Capitan—but has also been an outspoken advocate for <b>adaptive sports</b>, a musician, a comedian, and a humanitarian. His work with adaptive athletes has opened up the world of climbing to people who once thought adventure was out of their reach.</p>And that’s the thing about Timmy—he's not just a climber, but a force for inclusion and transformation in the outdoor world. He believes that the mountains—and nature—are spaces where we can heal, grow, and connect, regardless of our physical limitations or life circumstances.</p>In this rare interview, we explore the philosophy that has guided him: how to <b>live a life of purpose</b>, and how the outdoors can be a place where anyone can redefine their limits. Timmy also shares how he's built a life of passion that spans so many arenas—balancing humor, creativity, and humanitarian work alongside his climbing career. Whether you're a climber or not, Timmy’s approach to <b>resilience</b>, <b>adaptation</b>, and truly living life to the fullest has something for everyone.<br /><br />Key Takeaways:</p><ul><li><b>Replace Fear with Wonder:</b> Timmy discusses how climbing mirrors life’s challenges, teaching us to replace fear with curiosity and live fully in the present.</li><li><b>Living with a "Lifewish":</b> For Timmy, living with purpose and humor creates a Lifewish, a mindset that celebrates each day and finds joy in the journey, not just the destination.</li><li><b>Adventure as Service:</b> Timmy believes that if you’re fortunate enough to experience the peaks, it’s essential to bring others with you, especially through supporting adaptive sports and inclusive outdoor spaces.</li><li><b>Lessons from Adaptive Athletes:</b> Working with adaptive climbers, Timmy has witnessed profound resilience and strength, reminding us that true courage lies in embracing challenges, not avoiding them.</li><li><b>Humor as a Guiding Force:</b> Whether on the rock or in life, Timmy uses humor as a powerful tool for connection, stress relief, and perspective. Laughing, even in the toughest times, opens doors to new possibilities.</li></ul>You can find more about Timmy by simply Googling him or at his website <a href="Http://www.timmyoneill.com">www.timmyoneill.com</a><br /><br /><br />Timmy's sponsors are Patagonia, Osprey Packs, and Clif Bar. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></p>Physivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code <em>AGELESS15</em> at checkout for a special discount! <br /><br />https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15</p> If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜<br /><br />🟢 <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/7xbbL2HltguGs7jj0Z4cON">Spotify</a><br /><br />🎵<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1725368341">Apple Music</a><br /><br />▶️ <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@agelessathletepodcast/">YouTube</a><br /><br />📸<a href="https://www.instagram.com/agelessathletepodcast/">Instagram </a><br /><br />💧<a href="https://agelessathlete.substack.com/">Substack Blog</a> </p>

01:33:38

#46 Heather Heynen - Break Free From Limiting Beliefs: Practical Tips for Building Resilience, Embracing Adventure, and Finding Self-Worth Beyond Athletic Performance

Heather Heynen is a licensed mental health therapist, life coach, and the voice behind the excellent <em>Weight Loss and Wellness For Real</em> podcast. At 50, she passionately rock climbs and bike packs and shares why she finds it important to go forth with outdoor adventure! With a wealth of experience helping individuals reshape their relationship with themselves, Heather shares practical, actionable strategies for building resilience, self-love, and mental wellness that can guide us through every stage of life.</p>Heather shares practical advice towards:</p><ul><li><b>Building an Anti-Fragile Mindset</b>: Tips for turning challenges into fuel for resilience, helping you stay strong even through life’s toughest times.</li><li><b>Self-Love and Acceptance</b>: Heather discusses the importance of finding peace with your identity, especially as we age, and how we need to separate self-worth from your athletic performance</li><li><b>Journaling Made Simple</b>: Heather’s accessible techniques for journaling that foster self-awareness, help identify limiting beliefs, and create space for growth.</li><li><b>Embracing Adventure at Any Age</b>: Heather encourages listeners to break free from limiting beliefs around age and ability, sharing inspiring tips for pursuing new challenges and finding joy in movement, regardless of age.</li><li><b>The Power of Vulnerability</b>: In a warm and candid conversation, Kush and Heather both share their personal challenges with well-being, reflecting on the journey to self-acceptance and the courage it takes to face one's insecurities.</li></ul>Whether you're looking for practical wellness advice or motivation to embrace adventure as you age, this episode is filled with insights to inspire your next steps. Tune in for an honest and uplifting conversation about breaking free from self-imposed limits and living a resilient, fulfilling life.<br /><br />You can listen to Heather's podcast - Weight Loss and Wellness for Real on all major podcast apps. You can also find her on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/heynencounselingandcoaching/">Instagram</a>! </p>Physivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code <em>AGELESS15</em> at checkout for a special discount! <br /><br />https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15</p> If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜<br /><br />🟢 <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/7xbbL2HltguGs7jj0Z4cON">Spotify</a><br /><br />🎵<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1725368341">Apple Music</a><br /><br />▶️ <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@agelessathletepodcast/">YouTube</a><br /><br />📸<a href="https://www.instagram.com/agelessathletepodcast/">Instagram </a><br /><br />💧<a href="https://agelessathlete.substack.com/">Substack Blog</a> </p>

01:18:57

#45 Ben Moon - Rediscovering Peak Form At 50, Evolution of Training And The Moon Board, Olympic Pride, and, Timeless Partnerships

Thrilled today to speak with Ben Moon, the man who has defined and redefined what’s possible in climbing for decades. From pioneering world-class routes to creating game-changing training tools, Ben’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, passion, and partnership. At almost 50, Ben managed to recapture his peak performance, showing that age is just a number when it comes to pushing limits and breaking boundaries.</p>Join us as we explore his thoughts on Britain’s climbing evolution, the impact of the Olympics, and his work in developing tools like the Moon Board, which has revolutionized training for climbers everywhere. This episode is packed with insights on longevity, adaptability, and the profound relationships that have shaped his career. Whether you’re a climber or simply looking to be inspired, Ben’s wisdom offers valuable lessons for all.</p>Key Takeaways:</p><ul><li><b>Redefining Limits at Any Age</b>: Ben shares his experience of rediscovering peak performance in his 50s and how age doesn’t have to be a barrier to reaching new heights.</li><li><b>Pride in British Climbing’s Olympic Rise</b>: Hear Ben’s reflections on the recent surge of British success in climbing and how the sport has evolved globally since his early days.</li><li><b>The Power of Enduring Partnerships</b>: From his long-standing friendship with Jerry Moffatt to his role in the climbing community, Ben discusses the profound impact of collaboration.</li><li><b>Creating the MoonBoard</b>: Discover the story behind the MoonBoard and how this innovation has set a new standard in climbing training, making difficult climbs more accessible and replicable.</li><li><b>Commitment to Craft and Consistency</b>: Ben emphasizes the importance of consistency, the power of dedication, and the philosophy that’s kept him climbing at a high level across decades.</li></ul>References</p><ul><li><a href="https://www.moonclimbing.com/">Moon Climbing</a> – Ben Moon’s official site, offering climbing gear, apparel, and the MoonBoard.</li><li><a href="https://www.moonboard.com/">MoonBoard Training System</a> – Learn more about the MoonBoard and the climbing community it supports.</li><li><a href="https://www.redbull.com/us-en/films/dirtbag-the-legend-of-fred-beckey">The Dirtbag - The Legend of Fred Beckey</a> - Mentioned in the episode. </li></ul>Tune in to hear more about Ben Moon’s story, his contributions to the climbing world, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. This episode promises insights and inspiration for climbers and adventure-seekers alike!</p>Physivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code <em>AGELESS15</em> at checkout for a special discount! <br /><br />https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15</p> If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜<br /><br />🟢 <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/7xbbL2HltguGs7jj0Z4cON">Spotify</a><br /><br />🎵<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1725368341">Apple Music</a><br /><br />▶️ <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@agelessathletepodcast/">YouTube</a><br /><br />📸<a href="https://www.instagram.com/agelessathletepodcast/">Instagram </a><br /><br />💧<a href="https://agelessathlete.substack.com/">Substack Blog</a> </p>

01:43:09

#44 Five Commandments for Lifelong Performance: Lessons From Athletes for Longevity in Sport and Life

Today's episode is a bit different. We dive into the <b>5 Commandments</b> that athletes follow to achieve lasting success and performance in their sports. Drawing wisdom from legends like <b>Craig DeMartino</b>, <b>Juliet Starrett</b>, <b>Marshall Ulrich</b>, <b>Hazel Findlay</b>, and more, these principles aren't just about physical endurance—they're about mindset, learning, and self-advocacy.</p>Key Takeaways:</p><ul><li><b>Find Your Why</b>: Learn how knowing your deeper purpose can carry you through the toughest challenges, like Craig DeMartino’s journey after a 100-foot fall.</li><li><b>Embrace the Learning Process</b>: Hear how Lionel Conacher tackled Mavericks at 58 by staying humble and open to learning.</li><li><b>Prioritize the Fundamentals</b>: Juliet Starrett and Diana Fitzpatrick emphasize mastering the basics—recovery, sleep, and nutrition—for long-term success.</li><li><b>Move Your Body Every Day</b>: Oympian Tinker Juarez’s daily bike rides prove that consistency in movement leads to longevity.</li><li><b>Be Your Own Advocate</b>: Ultra-endurance gravel champ Jeremiah Bishop shows us the power of taking charge of your own health and recovery.</li></ul>These commandments aren’t just for athletes—they’re life lessons for anyone striving to stay active, healthy, and thriving as the years go by.</p>Catch the full stories behind these commandments and learn how you can apply them in your own life! </p>Physivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code <em>AGELESS15</em> at checkout for a special discount! <br /><br />https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15</p>If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜<br /><br />🟢 <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/7xbbL2HltguGs7jj0Z4cON">Spotify</a><br /><br />🎵<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1725368341">Apple Music</a><br /><br />▶️ <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@agelessathletepodcast/">YouTube</a><br /><br />📸<a href="https://www.instagram.com/agelessathletepodcast/">Instagram </a><br /><br />💧<a href="https://agelessathlete.substack.com/">Substack Blog</a> </p>

00:24:58

#43 Lynn Hill - “IT GOES, BOYS!” – Rewriting History, Mentoring is the Greatest Gift, Thoughts On Olympics, And Why You Need To Dream BIG!

Imagine standing at the base of El Capitan in the early 1990s. The Nose, one of the most famous and daunting climbing routes in the world, stretches nearly 3,000 feet above you. At this time, no one—not even the best climbers in the world—has free climbed it. Enter <b>Lynn Hill</b>. In 1993, she not only becomes the first person to free climb *The Nose*, but she does it in a single day, a feat that redefined what was possible in climbing. This wasn’t just a physical achievement; it was a moment that shattered gender barriers, set new standards, and echoed throughout the entire world of outdoor sports.</p>In this episode, we take you into that pivotal moment and beyond. We’ll relive Lynn’s historic ascent and explore what it meant to be at the cutting edge of climbing during a time when sponsorship was rare, the sport was still developing in the U.S., and women in climbing were a minority. Lynn didn’t just ascend rock faces—she broke through cultural and gender barriers in a male-dominated sport.</p>But this conversation isn’t just about Lynn’s remarkable climbs. As we dig deeper, we uncover the mindset, the discipline, and the sheer determination that made her one of the most influential climbers of all time. Lynn shares what it was like to grow up in the sport, what kept her pushing limits when others might have doubted her, and how she still maintains that passion 50 years into her climbing career.<br /><br />Lynn has made a fantastic <b>'Fundamentals of Climbing'</b> video series for beginners and experienced climbers alike! Highly recommended. Find it here: <a href="https://lynnhillclimbing.com/fundamentals-of-climbing/"><em>Fundamentals of Climbing with Lynn Hill</em></a><em>' </em>🙌🏽<br /><br /><b>CALL TO ACTION:</b></p>- Lynn is deeply involved in giving back to the climbing community and protecting the outdoor spaces she loves. If you’d like to contribute to her ongoing efforts at creating a community in Hueco Tanks, TX, you can reach out to her via <a href="mailto:lynn@lynnhillclimbing.com">lynn@lynnhillclimbing.com</a> for more info. <b>The Hueco Tanks project</b> will support climbing initiatives, environmental conservation, and mentorship programs for young climbers.<br /><br />- <br /> <br /><br /><br />More on Lynn at:<br /><br /><a href="https://lynnhillclimbing.com/">https://lynnhillclimbing.com/ </a><br /><a href="https://www.instagram.com/_linacolina_/">https://www.instagram.com/_linacolina_/</a></p>Physivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code <em>AGELESS15</em> at checkout for a special discount! <br /><br />https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15</p> If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜<br /><br />🟢 <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/7xbbL2HltguGs7jj0Z4cON">Spotify</a><br /><br />🎵<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1725368341">Apple Music</a><br /><br />▶️ <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@agelessathletepodcast/">YouTube</a><br /><br />📸<a href="https://www.instagram.com/agelessathletepodcast/">Instagram </a><br /><br />💧<a href="https://agelessathlete.substack.com/">Substack Blog</a> </p>

02:04:03

#42 David Wiens - Mountain Biking Then and Now, Aging With Purpose, Overcoming Setbacks, and Strengthening Communities With Trails

<b>"It wasn’t about what I couldn’t do; it was about what I could do. After my injury, I was focused on recovery and doing whatever was possible—like swimming every day. It’s all about the attitude you bring to the situation." 🚵🏽</b>​<br /><br />Mountain biking legend **David Wiens**, is not only celebrated for his six consecutive wins at the Leadville Trail 100 MTB but also for his integrity and resilience. As David approaches his 60th birthday, he reflects on his remarkable career, staying consistent, overcoming critical injuries, and building trails not just for mountain bikers, but for all users. <br /><br />Throughout this conversation, we explore his mindset on training, how he stays motivated, the magic of the outdoors, and how he overcame injuries to come back even stronger. <br /><br />### **Key Takeaways:**<br /><br />1. **Mindset Fuels Success**: David emphasizes that mental toughness, focus, and resilience are as critical as physical preparation when it comes to competing at the highest level.<br />   <br />2. **Strengthening Communities" In his leadership role with the IMBA (International Mountain Biking Assoc), David has helped build outdoor trails all over the country, for all recreational users. <br /><br />3. **Injury Recovery is a Learning Process**: After facing injuries, David highlights the importance of listening to your body and using setbacks as an opportunity to come back stronger.<br />   <br />4. **The Outdoors as a Source of Renewal**: For David, mountain biking is more than just a sport—being outside, connected to nature, brings him joy, peace, and the motivation to keep pushing his boundaries.<br /><br />### **References:**<br /><br />- Learn more about David Wiens' role as Executive Director at the [International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA)](https://www.imba.com).<br />- Check out David Wiens' **Mountain Bike Hall of Fame** profile [here](https://mmbhof.org/david-wiens).<br />- Explore the history of the Leadville Trail 100 MTB race [here](https://www.leadvilleraceseries.com/mtb/leadvilletrail100mtb/).<br />- Read more about the impact of doping in cycling during the Lance Armstrong era [here](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doping_in_sport).<br /><br />### **Sponsors:**<br /><br />A special thanks to David's sponsors, whose gear and support have been crucial to his success:<br />- [Canyon Bicycles](https://www.canyon.com)<br />- [Ergon Bicycle Ergonomics](https://www.ergonbike.com)<br />- [Topeak](https://www.topeak.com)<br />- [Shimano](https://www.shimano.com)<br />- [Fox Suspension](https://www.ridefox.com)<br />- [DT Swiss Wheels](https://www.dtswiss.com)<br />- [Maxxis Tires](https://www.maxxis.com)<br />- [Sportful Apparel](https://www.sportful.com)<br />- [Limar Helmets](https://www.limar.com)<br />- [GU Energy](https://www.guenergy.com)<br /><br />This episode is packed with wisdom, insights, and inspiration for anyone looking to thrive in their sport—or life—at any age!</p>Physivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code <em>AGELESS15</em> at checkout for a special discount! <br /><br />https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15</p> If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜<br /><br />🟢 <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/7xbbL2HltguGs7jj0Z4cON">Spotify</a><br /><br />🎵<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1725368341">Apple Music</a><br /><br />▶️ <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@agelessathletepodcast/">YouTube</a><br /><br />📸<a href="https://www.instagram.com/agelessathletepodcast/">Instagram </a><br /><br />💧<a href="https://agelessathlete.substack.com/">Substack Blog</a> </p>

01:45:53

#42 Katherine Hayes Rodriguez - Breaking All Barriers To Enable Outdoor Access For Us All

"I’m proud that what started with a handful of Vietnam veterans in Lake Tahoe has now grown into hundreds of adaptive sports programs worldwide. These athletes are breaking barriers, not just in sports but in society as well" ⛷️🚀<br /><br />Katherine Hayes Rodriguez is a pioneer in adaptive sports who has spent nearly 50 years making the outdoors accessible for all. From her early days as a ski instructor in the 1970s to becoming a leader in adaptive skiing and outdoor recreation, Katherine has faced and overcome seemingly insurmountable odds to break down barriers for people with disabilities.</p>Katherine’s work is groundbreaking—not only for what she has achieved in outdoor sports but for the lives she’s impacted along the way. In this episode, we discuss her journey, the challenges she faced, and how her passion for inclusivity has shaped entire communities. Katherine’s dedication to creating equal access to nature teaches us that the outdoors is for everyone, no matter the obstacles.</p>Whether you're an athlete or not, you'll be moved by Katherine's resilience and her unwavering belief in the power of nature. Tune in to learn how the outdoors can heal, empower, and unite us all.</p><b>Key Takeaways:</b></p><ul><li><b>Overcoming the odds:</b> Katherine’s journey of persistence in ensuring everyone can access outdoor activities, regardless of physical limitations.</li><li><b>The transformative power of nature:</b> How spending time outdoors is beneficial for both physical and mental well-being.</li><li><b>Adaptive sports and inclusivity:</b> Katherine’s groundbreaking work in revolutionizing adaptive skiing and other outdoor activities for individuals with disabilities.</li><li><b>Resilience in the face of challenges:</b> What Katherine’s personal and professional journey teaches us about perseverance.</li><li><b>Community and access:</b> The importance of inclusivity in outdoor spaces and the impact it has on people’s lives.</li></ul><b>References:</b></p><ul><li><b>Katherine Hayes Rodriguez</b> - Learn more about her work in adaptive sports and outdoor access through her public speaking and advocacy efforts.</li><li><a href="https://www.achievetahoe.org/"><b>Achieve Tahoe</b></a><b> - </b>Achieve Tahoe provides year-round outdoor recreation activities for people with cognitive, sensory, and physical disabilities.</li></ul>Physivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code <em>AGELESS15</em> at checkout for a special discount! <br /><br />https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15</p> If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜<br /><br />🟢 <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/7xbbL2HltguGs7jj0Z4cON">Spotify</a><br /><br />🎵<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1725368341">Apple Music</a><br /><br />▶️ <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@agelessathletepodcast/">YouTube</a><br /><br />📸<a href="https://www.instagram.com/agelessathletepodcast/">Instagram </a><br /><br />💧<a href="https://agelessathlete.substack.com/">Substack Blog</a> </p>

01:34:31