Trail Angels

Athletics, Advocacy, Children, Health, Angelman Syndrome   Summary   On this episode, we talk with Deanna McCurdy, who is a mother, wife, triathlete, and advocate for Angelman Syndrome (a genetic disorder). Deanna shares her family's journey and how it ties into her story as an athlete. You'll learn how she was able to turn a hardship into something positive that has increased awareness and is helping find a cure for Angelman Syndrome. This episode will open your eyes and empower you to take action in your own life.   You'll discover:   How Deanna juggles her various roles and responsibilities. Deanna and her family's journey from Georgia to Colorado. How Deanna uses her athletics to support her daughter who was diagnosed with Angelman Syndrome. Key background information about Angelman Syndrome. The important way that running has inspired Deanna. Deanna's perspective on athletics and how it helps her and others find a larger purpose. How Deanna has partnered with others to help raise awa

Adventure, Kayaking, Training, Biking, Fundraising     Summary   On this episode, we interview Julie Gibbs, a Project Athena Goddess who has taken a couple of adventures with us. Julie shares details of how she transitioned from a non-active life to participating in the Santa Barbara adventure, which involved 70+ miles of kayaking, biking, and trekking. You'll learn why training with a group is important, some ideas for fundraising, and how an adventure like this can change your life.   You'll discover:   How Julie got involved in Project Athena, and why she signed up for the Santa Barbara adventure, a 70+ mile adventure of kayaking, biking, and trekking. Julie's training plan for the Santa Barbara adventure, how she transitioned from virtually no activity to going on the adventure, and her overall experience on the trip. The important role that group training played in Julie's preparation. How she prepared herself for the paddling portion of her first adventure. Julie's experience r

Adventure, Florida Keys, Teamwork, Outdoors, Camping   Summary   On this episode, the Trail Angels recap their recent Florida Keys trip--a 3-day, multisport adventure covering 120 stunning miles of Florida coastline. The participants kayaked and cycled from Key Largo to Key West, enjoying the sights, sampling local cuisine, and setting up camp on the beach each night. Robyn shares why she chose the Keys, the challenges of putting the event together, and what it takes to complete an endurance event. Vanessa and Amanda also share their experiences and memories of the Keys event. You don't want to miss this episode packed with great information and inspiration.   You'll discover:   Why Robyn selected the Florida Keys, and how she and her team overcame the roadblocks in setting up the trip. The criteria Robyn uses in scouting trips and figuring out logistics. Robyn's favorite part of the Florida Keys adventure. Why this is an ideal entry-level adventure for the outdoor enthusiast who hasn't c

Running, Marathons, Cancer, Advocate, Survivor     Summary   On this episode, we interview BethAnn Telford, an endurance athlete, advocate, and brain cancer survivor. Over a decade ago, BethAnn received the horrible news that she had brain cancer. But rather than giving up hope, she has used her endurance abilities to create awareness and raise money for cancer research (with the majority benefiting pediatric cancer). BethAnn shares her amazing story of survival, as well as her incredible journey of completing the World Marathon Challenge: 7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days.   You'll discover:   BethAnn's journey to becoming an advocate for pediatric cancer. How she discovered she had brain cancer and decided the best way to raise funds for research. How the World Marathon Challenge began, how it works, why it begins in Antarctica, and how BethAnn decided to compete in it. An amazing story of an explorer who skied with BethAnn on the Antarctic leg of the World Marathon Challenge …

Nutrition, Health, Education, Family, Training     Summary   On this episode, we interview Lisa Spencer, a certified nutritional therapist. Lisa shares her unique journey through the academic world and into the area of nutrition. Today she blends those passions by helping others live healthier lives and reach their potential. Lisa offers valuable tips and resources for eating well and making great nutritional choices for you and your family.   You'll discover:   How Lisa focuses on functional nutrition by working with a person's individual needs and helping determine deficiencies or imbalances. What led Lisa to her interest in nutrition, and her unique approach to blending education and nutrition. Some of the services Lisa offers to both corporate and individual clients. How to take a family approach to nutrition by focusing on small changes.  Why she doesn't recommend cutting calories during a training program. The food Lisa suggests for endurance athletes. Online nutrition res

    Community, Relationships, Authenticity, Health, Illness   Summary   On this episode, we have the pleasure of interviewing Zina Mercil, our current Heart of Athena. Zina is a previous Project Athena participant and has also served as a goddess. She shares how her experience with Project Athena has given her a sense of community and belonging in the midst of dealing with an illness. After listening to Zina's story, we know you will love her just as much as we do.   You'll discover:   Zina's story of getting involved with Project Athena and how it led to a journey of transformation. What the adventure in the Florida Keys was like. Zina's perspective on the Heart of Athena program. How she has embraced her illness instead of being defined by it. How her skeleton got "bedazzled." Zina's advice and encouragement for those who are struggling.   Click to Tweet   Listen as @zinamercil shares her journey of transformation with @projectathena. #transformation How did @zinam

Health, Amputees, Military, Medicine, Prosthetics   Summary   On this episode, we interview Ryan Blanck, a prosthetist with the Hanger Clinic. Ryan is the brains behind the ExoSym, a device that gives patients more agility and empowers them to participate in high-impact activities like running, jumping, skydiving, and even military redeployment. We became aware of Ryan through several of our Athenas and knew we had to interview him for the show. He shares his background, fascinating details about the ExoSym device, and how he helps a variety individuals with challenging injuries. You'll be inspired by Ryan's story and his commitment to improving people's lives.   You'll discover:   Ryan's journey of moving from the private sector to working with veterans. The surprising story behind his development of the ExoSym, as well as details about how it works. How the Hanger Clinic works with clients and helps them do a "reboot" as they learn to use their new devices. Why Hanger's focus on treatin

Hiking, Discovery, Health, Adventure, Appalachian Trail     Summary   On this episode, we interview Kenneth Hacker, a 26-year old hiker we met on the Four State Challenge. Kenneth, who also goes by "Tuna," was completing a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. He finished all 2,189 miles in just under 100 days. Tuna shares why he decided to hike the trail and what he learned from the experience. You'll be amazed and inspired by his story and the wisdom he shares.   You'll discover:   How Tuna went from a life of farming and involvement in the organic industry, to finding himself on Appalachian Trail. Where he started and ended, and why he went southbound on the trail. Why he calls himself "Tuna." How Tuna handled the solitary times on the trail. The creative way he kept in touch with friends who wanted to follow his progress. What life has been like post-trail. A vital life lesson he learned on the trail.   Click to Tweet   Discover the journey of one man's 2,189-mile hike

Success, Business, Family, Health, Adventure   Summary   On this episode, we talk with Steve Sisler, the Vice President of Sales Development at Zanfel Laboratories. Zanfel is a safe and effective topical solution for poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. It is the only product known to remove urushiol, the toxin responsible for the reaction, from the skin after bonding, enabling the affected area to immediately begin healing. You'll laugh, learn, and be inspired by Steve's stories of family adventures and business success.   You'll discover:   How Zanfel works. Myths about poison ivy and poison oak. The difference between poison ivy and poison oak, and why poison oak is the worse of the two. The #1 way that people get recontaminated with poison ivy. The best dishwashing liquid to remove urushiol (the toxin responsible for the reaction). Stories of Steve's adventures with his family in Montana and Utah. Steve's keys to raising awesome kids. How Zanfel supports the mission of Project At

Success, Business, Apparel, Empowerment, Women Summary   On this episode, we talk with Hanna Bowden and Laurel Kasel from Mpowher Apparel. In their own words, "We started Mpowher because we wanted to make a difference among our fellow women, while spreading the lifestyle of inner strength. Our goal is to show our love for fitness and style, while building a community that inspires, motivates and empowers women." You'll be inspired by Hanna and Laurel's story of starting and growing a company that is truly making a difference in women's lives.   You'll discover:   The story of how Hanna and Laurel founded Mpowher. How they went from having a passion and a dream to making it a reality. Why having a business plan is important, but not the only element for success. How Hanna and Laurel help others by giving back 20% of the company's proceeds to various non-profits, as well as volunteering. The hardest part about starting and growing a business. How they decide the styles and colors of their appare

Success, Adventure, Family, Leadership, Business     Summary   On this episode, we talk with leadership coach, speaker, and Athena Ambassador Eric Kulikowski. He spent the first thirty years of his career in manufacturing and operations management, and now his calling is to help leaders become better leaders. Eric has become a great friend of Athena, and you'll be inspired by his touching story and passion for living a life of no regrets.   You'll discover:   Eric's unique story of moving from engineering into people development. The #1 challenge facing leaders today. Why employees must understand the purpose, goals, or the why behind challenges and changes. The key traits of a great leaders, and why listening well and asking questions are great traits of coaches. The leaders and authors who have influenced Eric the most. Why Eric would describe a Project Athena adventure with the phrase "sense of family," and why you should consider going on an Athena adventure if you've never been

Adventure, Photography, Business, Creativity, Travel   Summary   On this episode, we chat with John Waller, adventure photographer and founder of Uncage the Soul Productions. John has been the official photographer for many Project Athena adventures and has over 20 years of experience in producing, directing, and editing award-winning adventure documentaries. John shares how he transitioned out of the high school classroom into starting his own business, a number of stories about his adventures, and wisdom about starting and running a business.   You'll discover:   The skills you need as an adventure photographer, as well as the challenges in this field. How to strike a balance between being a long distance from the group, but also being within the group for intimate shots. How he transitioned from being a high school science teacher to starting his own business. How he was changed by a trip to Mount Kilimanjaro (and why he hired a porter to carry a 55-lb. generator). Why saying no to som

Health, Racing, Family, Relationships, Community     Summary   On this episode, we chat with Meredith Colaizzi, Program/Council Director of Girls on the Run at Magee-Womens Hospital in Pittsburgh. She shares how the Girls on the Run program is bringing families together and helping girls get healthier and develop important life skills. This interview will inspire you and motivate you to life your own best life.   You'll discover:   How Girls on the Run helps young girls become more healthy and confident by practicing the "5 C's + 1": confidence, competence, character, care, compassion, and connection. Meredith's story of how she became involved with GOTR. What makes running a marathon worth the pain and struggle. The benefits of surrounding yourself with a community of friends, partner, and running buddies. How to start a Girls on the Run chapter in your area. Meredith's daily practices that help her stay focused on her goals, as how she stays motivated with this mantra, "Run the mil

Training, Health, Weightlifting, Goal, Weight Loss   Summary   On this episode, we discuss and debunk 5 training myths that keep people from optimizing their workouts and overall physical health. We also share practical wisdom on a number of topics including goals, weight training, and finding balance. You'll come away encouraged and inspired to put these tips into practice!   Top 5 training myths:   More training is better. Training means automatic weight loss. I don't need a rest day. Lifting weights will automatically bulk me up. Without pain, you're not making any gain.   You'll also discover:   Why every workout doesn't have to be vigorous. Why women should consider weightlifting. How clear goals helps you be more successful in losing weight. Practical suggestions for finding balance in your training.   Interview Links & Other Resources   National Academy of Sports Medicine American College of Sports Medicine Project Athena Foundation

Training, Equipment, Racing, Exercise, Mistakes   Episode 9: A Conversation about Training Without Equipment, and Our Biggest Blunders   Summary   On this episode, we chat about a number of creative ways to do your workout when your regular equipment isn't available. We also share some of our biggest mistakes in racing and competition. You'll love this episode that is full of practice advice and plenty of laughs!   You'll discover:   Why we love coffee and how it can help you on race day. Tips and suggestions for getting your workout done when you're regular equipment isn't available or you're traveling. The benefits of exercising outdoors. Some of the mistakes we have made over the years in racing, and how to avoid them. Why you need different navigational styles on your team.   Interview Links & Other Resources   Project Athena Foundation

Adventure, Racing, Gear, Preparation, Fitness   Episode 8: A Conversation About Gear   Summary   On this episode, we chat about some of our favorite gear and swap stories of some of our most embarrassing moments on trips. You'll come away inspired and entertained by this informative and fun-filled episode!   You'll discover:   Why you need to train with the gear you are going to use during the race or adventure. What each of the hosts considers her essential gear. Why mints are a valuable item to have on a trip. How efficiency can be a big help on an adventure. Stories of the hosts' most embarrassing moments on trips.   Interview Links & Other Resources   Project Athena Foundation

Nutrition, Health, Fitness, Food, Habits   Episode 7: A Conversation About Nutrition   Summary   On this episode, we chat about the vital topic of nutrition. We'll explore some of our favorite trail foods (and why we love them) in addition to discussing some best practices for nutrition during a trip. You'll come away with a number of tips that can help you on your next adventure.   You'll discover:   How Athena staff makes sure Harbor to Harbor participants are nutritionally prepared for the event. Why you need to be mindful of your eating habits in order to be in optimum health. How eating more frequently can help fuel your journey. Why the food you eat during training doesn't need to be very different from what you eat in your everyday life. Some of our favorite foods to take on our journeys. Why there is no one right way to do things.   Interview Links & Other Resources   Project Athena Foundation

Triathlon, Success, Family, Sports, Fitness   Episode 6: An Interview with Triathlete Brent McBurney   Summary   On this episode, we interview professional triathlete Brent McBurney. Brent is a full-time business owner and family man, but over the past few years he's entered the competitive world of triathlons. When you're in a competition that involves a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and 26.2-mile marathon, you've got to be on top of your game. Brent shares why this sport means so much to him and how he fits it all into his already-busy life.   You'll discover:   What typical day for Brent is like. How he became a professional triathlete within two years, and why this sport is so addictive. How he preps for a triathlon and involves his family in his training and travel. How he works with a coach who lives several states away, and uses technology to assist his training. Which portion of a triathlon he enjoys the most (swimming, biking, or running). How Brent recovers after a d

Weight Release, Health, Fitness, Mindset, Fear   Episode 5: An Interview with Chiropractor and Fitness Coach Kellee Rutley   Summary   On this episode, we interview Kellee Rutley, a chiropractor and fitness coach who teaches us about mindset, going after your "big scary," and the powerful concept of weight release. You'll be inspired and motivated to think bigger and let go of the habits and thoughts patterns that are holding you back.   You'll discover:   How Kellee got interested in chiropractic care. The concept of mindfulness-based weight release. If you're fighting with your body to get rid of something you dislike, your body goes into fight or flight mode because it wants to hold onto energy. You need to allow your body to release it. Why you must have compassion for yourself. Why acceptance and letting go are such important parts of mindfulness. Why it's important to have a "big scary" that gives you a bigger vision for your life. How we live "padded" lives and how that relate

Project Athena, Adventure, San Diego, Teamwork, Fitness   Summary   On this episode, we give a recap of our recent Harbor to Harbor Trek, a 2-day, 50-mile adventure that begins in Oceanside Harbor and ends in San Diego Harbor. We share some of the people and stories that made this trip such a memorable one, and how it impacted the lives of everyone who participated. We also invite you to check out next year's adventure (link below).   You'll discover:   Why H2H is a different type of trip than we normally offer. Why the morning of Day 2 was such a special experience. Stories of some of the participants, and what made them so memorable. Why H2H is a great introduction to Project Athena trips. Why spotting a double rainbow was such a special moment for the team.   Interview Links & Other Resources   San Diego Harbor to Harbor Trek Project Athena Foundation