Trail Angels

Cancer, Health, Attitude, Goals, Planning   Summary   On this episode, we are thrilled to talk with Carletta Cunningham. She is a previous Athena, Goddess, Ambassador, and all-around wonderful person. In March of 2013, Carletta was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a subsequent double mastectomy. She shares how the diagnosis changed her life, and how she has refused to let cancer define her. You will be inspired by Carletta's bravery, enthusiasm, and determination to make every day count.   You'll discover:   How Carletta coped with cancer by setting big goals. Your power to make life as good as you want it to be. The importance of training and having someone believe in you. Carletta's motivation and enthusiasm for making the most of every day. How Carletta uses her "Hope Holiday" to keep going. Carletta's defining moment in her journey.   Click to Tweet   You may not have it just like it was, but you can have it as good as you make it. @CunningCarletta You're not going to

Fundraising, Relationships, Business, Communication, Adventure   Summary   Fundraising is a big and potentially stressful commitment when you are embarking on a Project Athena adventure. On this episode, you'll learn practical tips and strategies that can help anyone who is raising funds for a great cause. We'll touch on a variety of topics such as email fundraising, business partnerships, answering listener questions, and much more.   You'll discover:   Tips for creating an email campaign. How do divide your email contacts into three lists when you are creating an email fundraising campaign. Why you should follow up with people who have not yet donated. The value of knowing your audience and figuring out what motivates them to contribute. Why you should add a personal touch to your fundraising communication. The power of business partnerships, and how to start conversations with local businesses. Why you should use video clips in your fundraising communication. What happens when you don'

Health, Food, Lifestyle, Intermittent Fasting, Weight Loss   Summary   Today there are lots of conversations around the topic of intermittent fasting. But what is it? Should you do it? What are the benefits? On this episode, we dive into the topic of intermittent fasting as part of a larger conversation on weight loss and healthy living. You'll come away with practical tips and suggestions to help you reframe the topic of weight loss and pursue a healthy, successful lifestyle.   You'll discover:   The moment that prompted Vanessa to begin helping people pursue better nutrition. Some of the major problems related to weight loss today. The importance of understanding how the body works with food at a basic level. Why you shouldn't be fixated on weight loss alone. What intermittent fasting means. The mathematical equation for weight loss. Why tracking muscle mass and body fat is one of the best ways to lose weight. The power of doing your own research about how the body works. Suggestions fo

Training, Adventure, Athletes, Health, Workouts   Summary   On this episode, we discuss two important tools that PA adventure participants use. The first is Training Peaks, an online and mobile training platform for endurance athletes. The second is our PA Adventure Training Guide. You'll discover why we use these tools and the best practices for getting the most out of them. Whether you have been on a past PA adventure or will be joining us this year or in the future, these tools and tips will help you be more successful.   You'll discover:   An overview of the Training Peaks platform and its features. How PA adventure participants use Training Peaks. An overview of the Adventure Training Guide, where to find it, and how to use it. Defining moments that have shaped Amanda and Vanessa.   Click to Tweet   What is Training Peaks, and how does Project Athena use it? Find out on this episode. #training If you're looking for great #tools for your next #adventure, tune in to this we

Wellness, Energy, Nutrition, Balance, Harmony   Summary   We are thrilled to bring you this interview with Laura Freix, a wellness enthusiast and friend of Project Athena. Through her company called I Embrace Wellness, she helps people heal, thrive, and nourish their souls. You'll learn all about the importance of wellness, its link to Chinese medicine, and much more.   You'll discover:   Laura's background and how she became involved in wellness. The importance of relationships and energy to your overall wellness. Why your stomach doesn't like cold food. The importance of being in harmony with nature. How your relationships have a major impact on your health. The health benefits of Chinese medicine. How to shift your paradigm to focus on what is right and what is ready to shift inside you. Laura's advice for reframing your worthiness. Laura's defining moment in making steps towards taking care of herself and helping others.   Click to Tweet   Expand your view of what is #poss

Adventure, Motivation, Fear, Climbing, Challenges   Summary   On this episode we talk with two friends of Project Athena, Wendy and Mike Cohen. Wendy is a past participant of Project Athena's Grand Canyon adventure, and her experience there resulted in an even tougher adventure for her and Mike. Wendy wanted to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, and in our conversation the Cohens describe how they trained for and completed this difficult journey. Their story will inspire you to take on bigger challenges, learn from your mistakes, and implement the lessons you have learned.   You'll discover:   How Wendy became interested in the Grand Canyon adventure, and why it was the most challenging, rewarding, and humbling experience she had up to that point. The importance of learning to accept help. How Wendy's positive experience with Project Athena impacted Mike. How the Grand Canyon adventure motivated Wendy to reach for bigger goals. Wendy and Mike's story of planning and completing their climb of Mount

Fitness, Eating Disorders, Coaching, Confidence, Running   Summary   We are thrilled to bring you this interview with Trish Blackwell. Trish is a personal trainer, confidence coach, author, and founder of the College of Confidence. She shares her story of overcoming self-criticism, perfectionism, eating disorders, and even a physical attack. Trish's journey of moving forward with confidence will inspire you to face and overcome challenges in your own life as well.   You'll discover:   How Trish struggled with perfectionism and eating disorders during her time as a competitive swimmer. Her story of being attacked, strangled, and subsequently fearing for her life. How running helped Trish discover her strength. How to find the confidence to move forward. Why you should view pain as an opportunity. The importance of crediting yourself for the hard things you do. How to find gratitude, beauty, and joy in today. How Trish helps entrepreneurs, authors, bloggers, and others in their businesses.

Swimming, Addiction, Struggle, Recovery, Hope   Summary   On this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Karlyn Pipes. Karlyn lives in Hawaii and is a Hall of Fame swimmer, inspirational speaker and author, and a world class swim coach. She shares her journey of alcoholism and how she finally found hope and recovery through the love of her Mom and the help of mentors and coaches. You will be inspired to pursue your passion and live your best life as you hear Karlyn's story.   You'll discover:   Karlyn's background in swimming and some of her accomplishments. How she began her struggle with alcohol. How addiction takes hold of your brain and makes crazy things seem sane. The moment Karlyn began to have hope again. How Karlyn's Mom was a key part of her recovery. The power of coaches and mentors in her life. How Karlyn impacts people's lives through her teaching. Her advice for those struggling with addiction.   Click to Tweet   You can't run from your problems--they go

New Year's, Goals, Health, Achievement, Success   Summary   As we move into a New Year, goals and resolutions are on everyone's mind. It's easy to make goals more complicated than they need to be. On this episode, we'll share a simple 3-step system for smart goal setting that will help you be more successful. Whether your goal is to complete a 5K, eat healthier, check your phone less, or any other goal, you'll find many practical tips for making 2018 your best year yet.   You'll discover:   The importance of being realistic with changes you want to make. Why you shouldn't increase a goal more than 10-15% each week. How to track your progress by using a simple 1-5 scale and writing down the measurement toward your progress. The importance of thinking about the big picture of your time before committing to a large goal. How to use the weekend to think through and prepare your meals for the coming week. The value of a "5 alive" list: 5 foods you always have on hand to eat.   3 steps to

Podcasting, Health, Fitness, Adventure, Teamwork   Summary   This episode marks the one-year anniversary of the Trail Angels podcast! We're celebrating this special occasion by looking back at the highlights from the past year and sharing lessons we have learned. We'll also feature a special interview with our podcast producer, Rye Taylor, who has been such a key element in our success. Don't miss this episode full of highlights, memories, and a sneak peek of what we have in store for 2018.   You'll discover:   Our favorite moments from this past year. Listener feedback on how the show has impacted them. A peek behind the curtain of our podcast production process. Lessons we have learned from our first year of podcasting. The importance of keeping things simple and getting started without knowing everything. Rye's perspective on our first year, how the show has personally impacted him, and his favorite episode. What's in store for the podcast in 2018.   Click to Tweet   At the

Yoga, Health, Stretching, Fitness, Journaling   Summary   We're thrilled to share our conversation with Marcia Reitter, certified yoga instructor. You'll learn about Marcia's background, the benefits and different types of yoga, how to get started, and much more! Marcia also shares the special connection she has with her daughter through yoga. Whatever your level of experience, you'll come away with practical tips to help you become healthier and more relaxed through this ancient practice.   You'll discover:   Why Marcia began practicing yoga, and how she achieved her certification. How Marcia and her daughter work together to teach yoga to others. Marcia's journey to Chartres Cathedral in France, and the unique connection it has to her labyrinth ministry. The benefits of journaling, and how Marcia helps her clients get started. The importance of discovering the right type of yoga for you. Things you should consider when started out in yoga. Marcia's favorite yoga pose. An effective two-m

Trails, Running, Fitness, Injuries, Strength   Summary   When you think of running, do you envision pavement, sidewalks, or other flat surfaces? If so, you'll enjoy this episode featuring the benefits of trail running. Amanda and Vanessa share five reasons to get on the trails, which include: fewer injuries, improving your technique, mental breaks, breathing easier, and getting faster. You'll be inspired to take some time away from the road and hit the trails.   You'll discover:   Why Vanessa started running on trails. The benefits of trail running. The importance of using good judgment to avoid injuries on trails. How trail running improves your running technique. Exercises to help you warm up before a trail run. The mental benefits of trail running. Why it's easier to breathe on the trails. How running on hills makes you stronger. The importance of good form, and good shoes, when running trails.   Click to Tweet   On this episode, discover how #trail running helps improve yo

Workouts, Massage, Supplements, Nutrition, Stretching   Summary   On this episode, Amanda and Vanessa answer questions from current and past Project Athena participants. Topics include eating and workouts, stretching, active recovery, massage, supplements, and more. You'll come away with practical tips for your workouts as well as your daily life.   You'll discover:   Why you should to pay attention to how your body responds when you eat sugar. What to eat before, during, and after your workouts. The importance of practicing with items you will use on race day. Why you should think about food not just in terms of what you like, but what effect it has on your body. Mobility and stretching exercises for the hips and knees, and why you should stretch both sides of your body. How to approach active recovery. Why you should consider investing in massages. What supplements the Trail Angels use.   Click to Tweet   What should you eat before, during, and after a #workout? The Trail An

Health, Inflammation, Hydration, Food, Movement   Summary   On this episode, Amanda and Vanessa have an in-depth discussion about managing chronic inflammation. You will learn what inflammation is, the importance of hydration, and practical tips for reducing inflammation. You'll also discover how to reduce inflammation--and increase your overall health--through eating well and paying attention to your fiber intake.   You'll discover:   The basic definition of inflammation. Why inflammation is not just about what you see--it's also about what you feel. How hydration can help relieve a headache. Why you should bring your supplements along with your other medications when you visit a doctor. The #1 easiest thing you can do to reduce inflammation. The types of foods that will help reduce inflammation. The value of healthy fats in fighting inflammation. Why you must pay attention to the amount of fiber you eat. How to fight inflammation through movement, warming up your muscles, and using a fo

Blindness, Adventure, Fitness, Training, Fear   Summary   On this episode, we are thrilled to talk with Sarah Harris, who recently completed the San Diego Cove to Harbor adventure with her daughter. We featured Sarah on episode #40 of the podcast, and today she returns to fill us in on her experience with the adventure. You'll learn what it was like to complete the adventure as a blind person, Sarah's unique training experience in her house, and how she completed the 16-week training plan. Sarah's courage and determination will inspire and motivate you to face challenges and push yourself beyond your limits.   You'll discover:   Sarah's story of a car accident that left her blind. A summary of the Cove to Harbor adventure. What is was like for Sarah to experience the adventure with her daughter. They key that helped Sarah keep going when she wanted to quit. The logistics of completing an adventure as a blind person. How Sarah completed a 16-week training plan and walked 10.5 miles in her

Health, Fitness, Journaling, Mindfulness, Gratitude   Summary   On this episode, Amanda and Vanessa walk through the Fit Happens Journal. This fun, daily gratitude journal will help keep your healthy lifestyle on track in creative and positive ways. The Trail Angels talk through the sections of a daily page in the journal and share their honest thoughts. Their conversation will show you how to use the journal and why it can impact your life in a positive way.   You'll discover:   Why the Fit Happens journal has been so helpful to Vanessa. The six sections of the daily pages in the journal, and how they can help you stay mindful and grateful. A honest walkthrough of each section of a daily page in the journal.   Click to Tweet   Don't strive to be perfect--life is a journey with its ups and downs. #health #perspective On this episode, learn how the Fit Happens journal can help you be healthier as the Trail Angels walk through a daily page. Looking for a tool to help you be more

Adventure, Photography, Ironman, Racing, Training   Summary   We are thrilled to bring you this interview with Kaori Funahashi, adventure photographer. Kaori brings a unique perspective to her photography work because she is a coach and racer herself. She shares her background in photography, how she decides what to shoot, and the challenges of shooting adventure races. Kaori also gives practical tips for making the most of your race day photos. This episode is packed with inspiration and insights that will take your life to the next level.   You'll discover:   How Kaori developed her passion for photography. Kaori's favorite event she shot recently, and what she noticed about the Japanese team members. How Kaori decides what to shoot. The challenges of shooting adventures races. Tips for making the most of your race day photos. The story behind Kaori's upcoming Ironman triathlon, which is her first. Why accountability is a powerful factor in achieving your goals.   Click to Tweet &

Vision-Impaired, Fitness, Workouts, Learning, Health   Summary   On this episode, we are thrilled to interview Mel Scott, a fitness coach for the vision-impaired. Mel shares her story of becoming a fitness instructor and how she developed an interest in helping her community become healthier. In just a few years, Mel went from creating her first resource to now having nearly twenty workouts available. You will amazed and inspired as Mel shares her passion for fitness and her unique approach to changing lives.   You'll discover:   Why Mel has such a passion for fitness. The feedback she has gotten about the workouts. How Mel collaborates with certified fitness instructors to create the workouts. How becoming an auditory learner can grow your brain. Why Mel's guide dog Jingles is so special. How Mel is progressing on her forthcoming app. Mel's journey into podcasting and how her show is impacting lives. Her advice for someone chasing their passion.   Click to Tweet   On this epi

Injuries, Sports, Prevention, Health, Running   Summary   If you play sports or engage in other physical adventures, you know that injuries are bound to happen. But what can you do to reduce your risk of injury? On this episode, Amanda and Vanessa reveal practical tips for preventing injuries and staying healthy. You'll learn about the importance of epsom salt, thumb rollers, soaking, icing, stretching, and so much more. Their conversation is filled with examples and best practices that will help you stay in better shape both on and off the trails … and anywhere else you pursue adventure.   You'll discover:   The #1 cause of injuries. How unsafe environments can contribute to injuries. Why it's important to have a good bike fit. The value of keeping a self-awareness journal. Why you must learn restraint as an athlete. How soaking in epsom salt can help you recover. Why you shouldn't skip warming up and cooling down. The importance of having the appropriate gear. Several of our favorite st

Confidence, Performance, Endurance Sports, Nutrition, Training   Summary   On this episode, we are thrilled to interview Marni Sumbal, a board-certified sports dietitian who specializes in fueling endurance athletes. Marni shares her story of becoming a dietitian and a treasure trove of tips for hydration, nutrition, and workouts. You'll also hear why it's important to maintain your confidence, and practical ways to do so. Marni's wisdom isn't just for endurance athletes--it's for everyone who wants to improve their performance and take their fitness to the next level.   You'll discover:   Marni's story of becoming a dietitian. Why it's important to stick with the basics of nutrition in endurance sports. Why Marni focuses on changing a person's daily diet first. The importance of making quality nutrition choices. Marni's criteria for nutrition products that she recommends. The biggest challenges for women involved in endurance sports. Tips for staying hydrated both throughout the day and