In this episode of The Paths We Take, I sit down with professional triathlete and entrepreneur Steve McKenna to talk about what it really takes to chase greatness in endurance sport and the hidden costs that come with it.Steve opens up about the sacrifices behind a professional career, the pressure of balancing family, relationships, and performance, and why true “life balance” often disappears when you pursue something at the highest level. We also dive into the mental side of endurance sport, why amateurs often sacrifice more than pros, and how honesty, vulnerability, and support systems shape long-term success.We explore the turning point that led Steve to step away from full-time triathlon, the unexpected journey of building Nerd Belts, and what it’s like trying to juggle elite sport, business, and family all at once. Steve also shares his evolving training philosophy, why he’s now focused on running, and what he believes athletes get wrong about chasing big goals.This conversation goes beyond sport it’s about identity, purpose, relationships, and redefining what success really means once the finish line is crossed.If you’ve ever chased a big goal, struggled with balance, or questioned whether the sacrifice is worth it, this episode is for you.Topics Covered:The sacrifices behind professional endurance sportBalancing family, career, and elite performanceThe pressure amateur athletes face pursuing events like IronmanBuilding a business while competing professionallyThe story behind Nerd BeltsWhy success alone isn’t fulfillingTraining alone vs. training with communityLessons on purpose, relationships, and long-term happinessFind Steve on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stevemckenna_/https://www.instagram.com/nerdbelts/https://nerdbelts.com/This episode was edited and produced by Radiant Voices Media, If you are looking to start or grow your podcast and did not realise the time it requires to podcast be sure to reach out to Radiant Voices Media who wants to make podcasting easier for anyone! Visit Radiantvoicesmedia.com to learn more.If you want good quality Sunnies that last all the miles be sure to check out https://reyourrun.com.au/ and use code jordan10 at checkoutLooking for top quality supplements? Tropeaka has you covered! Try their pineapple creatine or collagen custard and use code jordzday10 at checkout! https://tropeaka.com.au/ Thank you to this weeks sponsor YouFoodz. These meals have honestly changed my weeks. No matter your goals, fat loss, muscle, performance, or just staying on top of life. YouFoodz has meals that actually taste amazing. Not like those gross frozen meals with fake ingredients… these taste fresh. But the biggest thing for me? Time. My time is everything. And saving 3–5 hours a week on groceries, cooking, and cleaning is honestly life-changing. If you want to make your week easier, use my link and grab a free box of meals. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later. Use link https://www.youfoodz.com/plans?c=FIH-5JOSVMZ4HX6A&discount_comm_id=7126b889-46cf-401e-9ced-b7ceafd87e49&plans_ab=true&utm_campaign=clipboard&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=raf-share-hpt
