The Unbound Podcast

Anna Unternährer

The Unbound Podcast, hosted by Anna Unternährer, is a space for heart-led humans ready to follow their calling. From explorers to athletes, entrepreneurs, and artists, we dive into the transformative journeys of those committed to carving their own path. Tune in for raw reflections, thought-provoking insights – and the occasional burst of explosive laughter. Thanks for listening and subscribing. Season two coming soon. 🥰✨

Episodes

  1. 07/09/2025

    #12 – Own Your Authentic Path with Big Wave Surfer Lena Kemna

    In this episode, I sit down with Lena Kemna to explore the raw and real journey of becoming the first female German big wave surfer — all while pursuing a PhD, working as a brand consultant, creating content, free diving, and more. Lena opens up about what it means to show up authentically, and how small steps can lead to big transformations. Together, we explore: ​Why she chose to share the not-always-glamorous side of becoming a big wave surfer in her documentary "L E N A"​Navigating Nazaré as a beginner — and a woman​How she balances pushing limits while honoring her intuition​Her advice for carving your own authentic path​A surprise twist: Lena turns the mic and interviews me about my podcasting journey …and so much more! Chapters  00:03 The Journey of a Big Wave Surfer 01:58 Authenticity in Storytelling 05:14 The Reality of Surfing Challenges 08:49 Breaking Barriers as a Female Surfer 11:19 Navigating Intimidation in the Surfing World 14:31 The Changing Landscape for Women in Surfing 16:08 Balancing Risk and Intuition 18:39 Managing a Multifaceted Life 21:25 Turning Intuition into Action 24:33 Facing Challenges and Embracing Privilege 29:22 Empowering Conversations: The Journey of Women 32:08 Breaking Barriers: Trust and Collaboration Among Women 34:48 Confidence in the Face of Fear: Lessons from Surfing 37:57 Overcoming Fear: Steps to Empowerment 42:54 Building a Sustainable Brand: Authenticity Over Algorithms 45:23 The Power of Connection: Merging Personal and Professional Worlds Follow Lena Kemna Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lena.kemna/ Sign up to receive updates about The Unbound Podcast (and more!) ⁠HERE⁠ Follow me: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/annaunt/⁠ Music: “All I Need” by The Cavers (used withpermission) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecavers/ Website: https://www.thecavers.com/ Want to support this podcast? Hit subscribe and share it with a friend. Your support means the world! 3

    1h 2m
  2. 07/02/2025

    #11 – “Stay Close to Your Inner Fire” – Alyx Steel

    What does it take to turn BIG dreams into reality?Join us as we explore the inspiring journey and powerful mindset of dancer, choreographer, and creative leader Alyx Steel. A true creative force, Alyx has choreographed for global superstars like Charli XCXand David Guetta at the MTV EMAs, led choreography for the Sugababes’ full tours and headline performances, and danced for icons including Rihanna, P!nk, and Coldplay – and many more. But her impact goes far beyond the stage. Alyx is also the visionary founder of SmashGlobal – a groundbreaking Bachelor’s program for dancers ready to go all in on their dreams. If you’ve ever found yourself shrinking your ambitions, or letting go of your dreams because you’ve lost faith – this conversation is for you. Chapters 00:00 Journey to LA: A Dream Realized 05:51 The Power of Surrender and New Beginnings 11:40 The Creative Process: From Vision to Reality 17:59 Dance as a Vehicle for Joy and Healing 23:50 Cultivating Passion: The Key to Fulfillment 29:42 Resilience and Courage: Steps to Growth 30:17 Navigating Disappointment and Rejection 31:52 Celebrating Success and Setting Boundaries 34:20 Embracing New Challenges and Growth 39:14 Dreaming Big and Following Your Passion 47:56 The Power of Dance and Resilience 54:52 Reframing Frustration in Skill Development 55:55 Introducing the Smash Global Program 57:28 Building a Legacy in Dance Education 59:31 Creating Global Opportunities for Dancers 01:01:55 Transforming Dance Education 01:07:13 The Importance of Environment in Growth 01:09:53 Dreaming Bigger and Finding Your Tribe Follow Alyx Steel: https://www.instagram.com/alyxsteele/ Follow Smash Global: https://www.instagram.com/smashglobaltraining/ Sign up to receive updates about The Unbound Podcast (and more!) ⁠HERE⁠ Follow me: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/annaunt/⁠ Music: “All I Need” by The Cavers (used withpermission) Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thecavers/ Website:https://www.thecavers.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please hit subscribe and share it with a friend. Your support means the world and helps others find the show! 3

    1h 15m
  3. 06/25/2025

    #10 – Breaking Free from Societal Expectations with Britt van Heekeren

    What does it really mean to design a life true to you? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Britt van Heekeren, who answered that question after the sudden loss of her father in 2021. With no clear roadmap, Britt left behind convention to follow her intuition – and now lives on the road, surfing, exploring, and creating a life of freedom and intention. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Journey of Exploration and Reflection 12:28 Defining Success on Your Own Terms 27:18 The Impact of Loss and Life Changes 31:22 The Weight of Constant Travel 37:25 Understanding Burnout Beyond theCorporate World 41:12 Identity and Lifestyle Reflections 42:11 Finding Clarity Through Movement andMindfulness 46:22 Balancing Personal Needs with SocialExpectations 50:11 Creating a Retreat: A NewPassion Project Thanks for listening! New episodes drop every Wednesday. Make sure you hit he follow button to get notified. Follow Britt van Heekeren Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brittvheek/ Surf Retreat: https://sundazesurf.com/pages/morocco-retreat ⁠ Sign up to receive updates about The Unbound Podcast (and more!) ⁠HERE⁠ Follow me: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/annaunt/⁠ Music: “All I Need” by The Cavers (used with permission) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecavers/ Website: https://www.thecavers.com/ Want to do me a HUGE favour? Please hit subscribe and share this episode with a friend. Your support means the world! 3

    1h 2m
  4. 06/18/2025

    #9 – “Body Before Biz” with Abbi Miller

    What if building a successful business isn’t about pushing harder, but about slowing down enough to actually hear what your body’s trying to tell you? In this episode, I’m joined by holistic business strategist, speaker, and Workwomb podcast host Abbi Miller for a conversation that’s as grounding as it is energizing. Together, we explore: ​What “Body Before Biz” Really Means – and Why It’s the Most Effective Strategy for Building a Successful, Sustainable Business​Why Showing Up Authentically (a.k.a. Waving Your Freak Flag) Turns You Into a Powerful Magnet for Aligned Opportunities and Meaningful Relationships​Grounding Practices to Stay Connected to Yourself Through the Inevitable Ups and Downs of Entrepreneurship … and so much more! If you’re ready to build something that feels good and makes money — this one’s for you. CHAPTERS 04:58 Body Before Business: The Importance ofIntuition 08:56 Waving Your Freak Flag: Authenticity in Businessand Life 19:46 Navigating Growth and Healing: The Dual Journey 25:16 Embracing the Unknown: Courage in Creativity 28:30 The Dance with Fear: Growth Through Discomfort 33:00 Vulnerability vs. Oversharing: The Fine Line 35:23 Navigating Hardship: The Balance of Sharing andPrivacy 39:10 Prioritizing Self-Care: Body Before Business 43:28 The Power of Focus: Setting Intentional Goals 47:46 Celebrating Small Wins: The Importance ofAcknowledgment Thanks for listening! New episodes drop every Wednesday. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified. Connect with Abbi Miller: ​Abbi's method for cycle-syncing & time batching for FREE: https://workwomb.myflodesk.com/monday​Workwomb Instagram​The Workwomb Podcast​Biz on the Beach, Somatic Biz Retreat in Mexico​The Elevated Circle, Intimate Biz Mastermind​Free 30-min consult with Abbi to chat about working together 3 Sign up to receive updates about The Unbound Podcast (and more!) ⁠HERE⁠ Follow me: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/annaunt/⁠ Music: “All I Need” by The Cavers (used withpermission) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecavers/ Website: https://www.thecavers.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please hit subscribe and share it with a friend. Your support means the world and helps others find the show! 3

    56 min
  5. 05/28/2025

    #8 – Expressing the Intangible with Muhammed Kaltuk

    What’s your relationship with emotions? Are you able to articulate how you truly feel? Whether it’s joy, grief, love, anger, or confusion – emotions don’t always translate easily into words. For choreographer and artistic director Muhammed Kaltuk (Muhi), dance has become the translator. Rather than forcing words onto feelings he doesn’t yet understand, he lets movement lead the way. Through dance, Muhi explores, expresses, and ultimately makes sense of the intangible. In this episode, you’ll discover: ​Muhi’s creative process: From first spark of inspiration to the final piece​How intuition, collaboration, and experimentation shape his artistry​The story behind his latest work, Same Love​Why embracing the unknown and adopting a beginner’s mindset can spark transformation​Thoughtful reflections and encouragement for anyone navigating a creative path... and so much more! If you’ve ever been overwhelmed by a feeling you couldn’t name, this conversation might just feel like coming home. Chapters: 00:00 The Journey of Creating a Piece 01:43 Exploring Political Feelings and Love 04:15 Navigating Love Across Cultures 06:27 Understanding Love Languages 06:41 The Complexity of Love 08:24 The Journey of Self-Expression through Dance 15:13 Following Your Instincts and Dreams 19:55 Collaborating with Artistic Inspirations 19:55 Lessons from the Journey 26:11 Future Performances and Cultural Exchange Thanks for listening! New episodes drop every Wednesday. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified. Follow Muhi: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muhammedkaltuk/ Website: ⁠ https://companymek.com/ Sign up to receive updates about The Unbound Podcast (and more!) ⁠HERE⁠ Follow me: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/annaunt/⁠ Music: “All I Need” by The Cavers (used with permission) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecavers/ Website: https://www.thecavers.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please hit subscribe and share it with a friend. Your support means the world and helps others find the show! 3

    54 min
  6. 05/21/2025

    #7 – Daring to Dream Big and Move Boldly with Hannah Wilcox

    What happens when you finally achieve the dream you worked so hard for — and it no longer feels right? When the thing that once set your soul on fire starts to feel like someone else’s story? In this episode, I sit down with Hannah Wilcox, a professional ballet dancer who made the brave decision to retire at the height of her career. We explore: Her journey to becoming an elite ballet dancer — and the hidden struggles behind the spotlight The courage it takes to let go of what no longer fits How she found the strength to walk away and start over The freedom that comes from honouring your inner knowing — even when it means leaving everything you’ve built A glimpse into her new project: The Left Field Podcast ...and so much more. If you’ve ever felt the pull to pivot, to walk away from something that no longer aligns, or to start over — this one’s for you. Chapters 00:00 Determination and Pursuing Ballet 02:21 Navigating Parental Concerns 05:28 The Challenges of the Dance Industry 08:21 Dealing with External Pressures 11:40 Finding Balance and Community 14:28 Realizations and Questions in the Dance Career 17:25 The Decision to Retire from Dance 24:32 Navigating Career Transitions in Dance 28:46 The Role of Mentorship and Personal Growth 32:00 Reconnecting with Passion and Self-Trust 34:56 Lessons Learned from Ballet 47:37 Advice for Aspiring Dancers and Artists 51:07 Launching a New Podcast Journey Thanks for listening! New episodes drop every Wednesday. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified. Follow Hannah Wilcox: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hantaywilcox/ Podcast: ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/left.field.podcast/ Sign up to receive updates about The Unbound Podcast (and more!) ⁠HERE⁠ Follow me: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/annaunt/⁠ Music: “All I Need” by The Cavers (used with permission) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecavers/ Website: https://www.thecavers.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please hit subscribe and share it with a friend. Your support means the world and helps others find the show! 3

    57 min
  7. 05/14/2025

    #6 – Turning Pain into Purpose with Benedicte Caramin

    How do you explain to a child that a loved one has died? How do we begin conversations that are so delicate, so painful – and yet so vital to processing loss and grief? For Benedicte Caramin, these questions became deeply personal after the profound losses of both her father and her brother. But rather than turning away from the pain, she chose to move toward it – transforming her grief into something meaningful. In this conversation, we explore: ​Bene’s journey to becoming a children’s book author ​The story behind "Uncle Ollie" ​How fantasy and storytelling help both children and adults process grief​The role of radical honesty and compassion in navigating loss​The importance of onesies – and keeping joy and playfulness in life… and so much more. Chapters00:00 Exploring Grief Through Storytelling 02:10 The Process of Writing Uncle Ollie 04:56 The Role of Illustrations in Grief 07:59 Navigating Conversations About Loss 10:53 Radical Honesty in Communication 14:05 Finding Presence in Grief 16:53 The Healing Power of Water Photography 19:17 Embracing Playfulness in Life 22:13 Connecting Through Shared Experiences 25:01 The Importance of Honesty with Children 27:57 Celebrating Life and Memories30:42 The Future of Uncle Ollie and New Projects Thanks for listening! New episodes drop every Wednesday. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified. Follow Benedicte Caramin: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benedictecaramin/ Website: https://olistories.com/en Sign up to receive updates about The Unbound Podcast (and more!) ⁠HERE⁠ Follow me: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/annaunt/⁠ Music: “All I Need” by The Cavers (used with permission) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecavers/ Website: https://www.thecavers.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please hit subscribe and share it with a friend. Your support means the world and helps others find the show! 3

    45 min
  8. 05/07/2025

    #5 – Going Pro: Meet Waterwoman Christina Gindl

    Sometimes, the best opportunities aren’t the ones you find – they’re the ones you create. Austrian Waterwoman Christina Gindl has done exactly that. By transforming her passion for surfing and freediving into a profession, she’s carving a path that truly aligns with her heart and takes her beyond mental and physical limitations. In this episode, Christina reflects on: • Tackling bigger surf and the training it requires • Taking calculated risks and trusting your inner voice • Shifting your mindset to stay accountable and overcome procrastination• Why rest and community are essential for sustainable growth • A behind-the-scenes look at her short film Above and Below • Heartfelt advice for anyone ready to follow their own path … and so much more! 00:00 Journey to the Ocean: A Life of Passion 10:10 Embracing Challenges: The Path to Professionalism 19:55 Calculated Risks: Trusting Your Inner Voice 30:14 The Power of Community: Surrounding Yourself with Support 40:05 The Call to Co-Create Impact and Protect the Ocean 47:19 Living Your Best Life: Daily Routines and Mindset Thanks for listening! New episodes drop every Wednesday. Make sure you hit the subscribe button to get notified. Follow Christina Gindl: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christinagindl/ Watch “Above and Below”: ⁠ https://gshock.casio.com/de/g-news/latest/christina-gindl/ Sign up to The Unbound Podcast Newsletter ⁠HERE⁠ Follow me: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/annaunt/⁠ Website: www.annaunt.com Music: “All I Need” by The Cavers (used with permission)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecavers/Website: https://www.thecavers.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please hit subscribe and share it with a friend. Your support means the world and helps other find the show. 3

    49 min
  9. 04/30/2025

    #4 – Overcoming Resistance with Rithiely Pereira

    What's your relationship with discomfort? In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Rithiely Pereira. A world-class dancer and movement director, she’s graced the stages of the Grammys, the Super Bowl, and Coachella, performing for stars like Ariana Grande, Shakira, and Pharrell Williams – just to name a few. In short: Rithiely knows exactly what it means to put yourself out there and show up for your dreams – even if (or especially when) it feels uncomfortable. In this raw and inspiring conversation, Rithiely opens up about: ​How her drive evolved from a desire to be seen to a deeper calling to serve the dance world​The mindset shifts and tools that help her move through resistance, imposter syndrome, and fear​Her insights into the power of authenticity and setting clear intentions to shape your destiny​Her grounded approach to social media — and how she stays aligned despite the noise​The rewards of redefining success on her own terms If you’ve ever struggled to get out of your own way, this one’s for you. Thanks for listening! New episodes drop every Wednesday. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified. Follow Rithiely Pereira: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rithielypereira/ Website: ⁠ https://www.rithiely.com/ Sign up to receive updates about The Unbound Podcast (and more!) ⁠HERE⁠ Follow me: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/annaunt/⁠ Music: “All I Need” by The Cavers (used with permission) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecavers/ Website: https://www.thecavers.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please hit subscribe and share it with a friend. Your support means the world and helps others find the show! 3

    54 min
  10. 04/23/2025

    #3 – The Story Behind “Women & the Wind” (3/3): Meet Filmmaker & Photographer Alizé Jireh

    Have you ever felt so exhausted, so sick – maybe even delirious — that just getting through the day felt like a victory? Now imagine being in that state while crossing the Atlantic Ocean. Thirty days at sea. No land in sight. Nowhere to anchor. From day one, you're seasick. Storms slam the boat. Waves crash over the deck. Dry clothes? Just a memory. But you made a promise: to document this voyage. That’s exactly where filmmaker and photographer Alizé Jireh found herself while shooting the documentary Women and the Wind. So, how do you keep going when your only instinct is to curl up and sleep? How do you navigate that kind of discomfort — mentally, physically, emotionally? In other words, what does it take to create art under such extreme conditions? Turns out, sometimes the most powerful thing to do isn’t to push harder — but to fully surrender instead. In this episode, Alizé shares: How radical acceptance became her surprising ally in making Women and the Wind while battling nonstop seasickness. The powerful role of vulnerability and nudity — both in the movie and in her personal journey as an artist. The deep personal transformation that came from being completely disconnected from the outside world. Her heartfelt advice for creatives ready to unleash their inner artist. A sneak peek into her next bold chapter: spending a year documenting life in a remote Arctic lighthouse. Thanks for listening! New episodes drop every Wednesday. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified. Follow Alizé Jireh and the Women & the Wind Project: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alizejireh/ Website: ⁠https://www.womenandthewind.com/women⁠ Sign up to receive updates about The Unbound Podcast (and more!) ⁠HERE ⁠ Follow me: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/annaunt/⁠ Music: “All I Need” by The Cavers (used with permission) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecavers/ Website: https://www.thecavers.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and leave a review! Your support means the world and helps others find the show! 3

    55 min
  11. 04/16/2025

    #2 – The Story Behind “Women & The Wind” (2/3): Meet Laerke Heilmann

    Imagine leaving everything behind to embark on the toughest adventure you’ve ever faced. You think you’ll be back in 2 months… except you’re not. You return 18 months later – and the way you see the world has shifted forever. That’s exactly what happened to Laerke Heilmann, a Danish artist and waterwoman who, alongside Captain Kiana (from our last episode), served as first mate on a transatlantic voyage captured in the upcoming documentary Women and the Wind. In doing so, she’s become something of an expert at embracing uncertainty and dancing with the unknown... So if there’s something that’s been calling you, but you haven’t yet found the courage to take that next bold step – this conversation is for you! In this episode, Laerke shares: What it felt like to leave shore, face doubts, and step into the unknown with no clear return dateThe mental and physical challenges of life at sea – and how she navigated discomfort, fear, and uncertaintyThe deep connection she formed with nature, and the liberation of disconnecting from the modern worldThe impact she hopes Women and the Wind will have, and the lessons the ocean continues to teach herThe unexpected rewards of pursuing a bold, challenging dream Thanks for listening! New episodes drop every Wednesday. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified. Follow Laerke Heilmann and the Women & the Wind Project: Instagram: ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/laerke.fun.heilmann/ Website: ⁠https://www.womenandthewind.com/women ⁠ Sign up to receive updates about The Unbound Podcast (and more!) ⁠HERE⁠ Follow me: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/annaunt/⁠ Music: "All I need" by The Cavers (used with permission) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecavers/ Website: https://www.thecavers.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and leave a review! Your support means the world. 3

    45 min
  12. 04/02/2025

    #1 – The Story Behind “Women & The Wind” (1/3): Meet Captain Kiana Weltzien

    Welcome to The Unbound Podcast! I'm so happy you're here. Before we kick-off, a quick disclaimer: this is my very first time producing a podcast, and there’s still a lot I’m figuring out – especially when it comes to all things tech. But rather than waiting for it to be “perfect” (because we all know that doesn’t exist), I’ve decided to just start – to leap, learn, and evolve as I go. So thank you for your patience as I navigate this process. The quality will keep getting better, I promise. And if you have any feedback, insights, or AHA moments to share, feel free to comment – I’d love to hear from you. Now, let's dive in! Have you ever wondered what life would be like if you gave yourself permission to follow your calling? What if you traded the office for adventure, certainty for the unknown, and fear for alignment with your true self? Kiana Weltzien has lived the answer. As a solo sailor, captain, and full-time adventurer, she has spent the past decade navigating vast oceans, braving the elements, and fully embracing the beauty of an untethered existence. At just 28 years old, Kiana has made the sea her home aboard Mara Noka, a 50-year-old catamaran she’s already sailed across multiple oceans –all by herself! But her journey goes beyond solo sailing. Mara Noka is also the setting of the soon-to-be-released documentary Women and the Wind, where Kiana led an all-female crew on a bold 30-day voyage across the North Atlantic. In this episode, Kiana reflects on: Her life-changing decision to leave her desk job and embrace a life of adventure and freedom.How sailing and a nomadic lifestyle reshaped her perspective on life.The power of trusting her inner voice, embracing uncertainty, and setting clear intentions to manifest her dreams.The challenges of solo Atlantic crossings and how they’ve shaped her into the woman she is today.The creation of Women and the Wind and her vision for empowering women through the foundation. Thanks for listening! New episodes drop every Wednesday. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified. Follow Kiana Weltzien and the Women & the Wind Project: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whereskiana/ Website: https://www.womenandthewind.com/women Sign up to receive updates about The Unbound Podcast (and more!) HERE Follow me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annaunt/ If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and leave a review! Your support means the world and helps others find the show! 3

    1h 17m

About

The Unbound Podcast, hosted by Anna Unternährer, is a space for heart-led humans ready to follow their calling. From explorers to athletes, entrepreneurs, and artists, we dive into the transformative journeys of those committed to carving their own path. Tune in for raw reflections, thought-provoking insights – and the occasional burst of explosive laughter. Thanks for listening and subscribing. Season two coming soon. 🥰✨