The Evolving Adventurer

greggi v

5.0 (3)
Spirituality
Updated Weekly

The only constant in life is change... how can you keep an adventurous spirit while evolving through the ebbs and flows of life? Tune in to hear musings about personal growth, wisdom gained from time spent in nature, and meaningful discussions with inspiring and empowering folks moving through uncharted territory, sometimes both literally and figuratively. Connect via cactusmoose@protonmail.com

6d ago

E185: Natasha Swartley: Barbie the Bomb Builder: Living Bold & Brave

Barbie the Bomb Builder to Badass Join us today, friends, as veteran Natasha Swartley, the wondering--and wandering--lost unicorn @ shares her powerful journey. From starting her career as Barbie the Bomb Builder, to taking bold, brave steps exploring America, going back to school not once, but twice, and how networking led to some amazing opportunities. From her early days in a toxic household to a successful military career, from feeling isolated as a female veteran to finding community in trail running, Natasha walks us through the ups, downs and laughs of boot camp, being a foot whisperer thanks to NOLS W-EMT training, and resources available for veterans with her signature—and candid—storytelling. She is the embodiment of strength, perseverance and courage… and perhaps she’ll work on your blistered feet at an upcoming ultra! You’ll learn the power of resilience and finding the right community as Natasha shares feelings of disconnection, and how asking for help changed her in a beautiful way: trails literally and figuratively saved her life. It’s hard not to be inspired after listening to the episode; Natasha encourages anyone facing adversity to find strength within and to seek support — whether through military service, outdoor adventures, or connecting with a community. I’m excited to follow her journey on this exciting new chapter! Can you keep up with the shenanigans of @wonderlostunicorn ?? Timestamps: 01:04 - Early motivation to serve and joining the Navy 03:13 - Why Natasha chose aviation ordnance and her military experiences 08:25 - Transition from military to civilian life and dealing with mental health 12:19 - Volunteer roles at ultra races and impacting runners' lives 16:27 - Overcoming veteran depression and seeking help 20:53 - Understanding veteran suicide and suicide prevention efforts 25:04 - Community support and how trail running mirrors military teamwork 27:01 - Training the mind for hard, unpredictable conditions 29:13 - Practical race strategies: focus, hydration, and mental clarity 32:31 - Supporting others at aid stations and the importance of simple acts 37:51 - Memorable race moments and impactful stories 44:37 - Fulfillment found in service, volunteering, and community involvement 46:47 - Upcoming races and educational pursuits in Colorado 52:44 - Moving to Colorado, new opportunities, and dreams realized 61:56 - Advice to younger Natasha and lessons for others 64:40 - Closing thoughts: strength, worthiness, and community Links: Instagram⁠⁠⁠NOLS Wilderness EMT ProgramProject Healing WatersTeam RWBHow to Talk So Kids Will ListenVRE Program (Veterans Rapid Engagement)⁠GI Bill Benefits⁠

1h 6m
Jun 8

E184: Corinne Shalvoy: Women Can.

Thank you for listening today, friends! We’ve got a treat today, as Corinne Shalvoy, founder of Women Can. shares her inspiring journey of walking away from a high-level career in corporate America because it no longer aligned with her values and passions to creating a movement to celebrate women’s pursuits through all walks of life. The Women Can. Movement symbolizes strength and capability and goes beyond running to celebrate whatever a woman is passionate about going after. Corinne’s journey resonates with many, as she used a simple shirt with the message "women can do anything" as a catalyst for change. The Women Can. shirt she created has become more than just clothing; it is a statement of empowerment and a reminder for women everywhere that they have control over their narratives. Women’s sports, and the narrative around women in sports, is changing rapidly and dramatically, particularly since The Cocodona 250 - a race Corinne commentated for the 4th year in a row. Corinne shares her thoughts on how to increase women’s participation in races, and how men can advocate for and support all women. The Women Can. movement is making an impact in the running world and beyond. Today you’ll discover how Corinne’s passion for running and community building is reshaping perceptions and empowering women everywhere. Corinne Shalvoy is not just an athlete; she is a trailblazer who turned her passion—and an idea from a shirt—into purpose. A lifelong runner who believes her most competitive days are still ahead at the age of 43, you’ll learn how she grew up in the Colorado mountains, overcame challenges with body image, and reconnected with her passion for running. It was while reflecting on her life direction that she initiated a change from corporate America to focusing on what’s truly important to her. Her life experience, including her journey with running and as a media personality, shaped the vision for Women Can. You’ll also get Corinne’s thoughts on the significance of women breaking records in ultras, the power of community and supportive environments, and strategies to increase women’s participation in races and physical activity. She also shares the important role that mentorship and coaching played in her personal journey to where she is today. We also venture into balancing family, coaching and community engagement, the next generation of athletes and ways for men and allies to support women’s endeavors without intimidation. As Corinne shares today, you have the power to redefine your path. Embracing your true self and passions can lead to incredible change. What's out there beyond where you currently are? Women Can. Shopify Women Can. Pressio shop Women Can. Instagram Women Can. Substack

1h 1m
Jun 2

E183: Wynonna Fulgham: The Healing Role of Running

Thank you for listening, friends! Today we’ve got Wynonna Fulgham talking about her deep connection to her Diné culture, inspirational ultrarunning journey, and her role as a Native woman in the running community. You’ll learn how running is a spiritual practice, means of healing, and a form of cultural expression for indigenous communities. You’ll also find out what it’s like to finish 100 challenging, mountain miles at the Bradshaw Brute race, sleep for 4 hours, then start the 125 mile journey of Sedona Canyons as part of Cocodona! Wynonna shares about the profound connection between indigenous culture, land, spirituality, and running. Her story is one of resilience, community, and honoring ancestral traditions through both physical endurance and emotional healing. Each run is a ritual based on connection: to yourself, your community and your ancestors. Each step is a prayer, a way to honor your journey while acknowledging the challenges that come along the way. Wynonna shares how to find strength in vulnerability, and to honor the journey together. Prepare to learn about Diné culture, and to be inspired by Wynonna’s physical and mental endurance… and how running can be a ceremony that shapes identity. Wynonna is a certified coach to help indigenous women runners get to the start line of ultras. Connect with her on Instagram @blacksheep_running Key topics Wynonna's background: Diné woman, mother, and math teacherThe significance of running in Diné culture and traditional ceremoniesHer experience with ultras like Cocodona 250 and Sedona CanyonsThe spiritual and ancestral meaning behind her racing and land connectionThe role of indigenous women in creating representation through Native Women RunHow running helps community healing, trauma recovery, and cultural preservationThe ceremonial aspects of training, race, and finish as a spiritual journeySupporting indigenous runners financially and through land acknowledgmentThe importance of curiosity, respect, and cultural sensitivity in outdoor spacesWynonna's plans for future races and goals for 2026Timestamps 02:04 - Wynonna’s background and cultural identity as a Diné woman 03:03 - Experiences with the documentary "The Cut-Off" and race challenges 05:34 - The spiritual significance of land, drumming, and ceremonies in races 09:03 - Emotions in finishing and the ceremonial closure of races 12:03 - Connection of running to Diné culture and ancestral practices 16:50 - The evolution of her running journey since puberty 23:02 - Giving offerings and respecting land during races 24:42 - The symbolism of sacred mountains and ancestral strength 26:37 - How running acts as a healing and cultural act 36:38 - Wynonna’s role as a teacher and community role model 39:12 - Increasing representation of indigenous women in ultrarunning 43:10 - Supporting Native Women Run and its mission 47:28 - Land acknowledgment and cultural respect for outdoor enthusiasts 50:45 - How to support indigenous runners through donations and awareness 53:09 - Wynonna’s future plans and upcoming races in 2026 55:26 - The Burrito League experience and community engagement 62:38 - Reflections on community, support, and racing experiences 67:05 - Connecting with Wynonna and supporting her journey ahead Resources & Links The Cut-Off DocumentaryNative Women Run | Support the organizationMountain Outpost YouTube | Follow Winona's journeyCocodona 250 race | Learn more about the race Connect with Wynonna Instagram

1h 8m
May 26

E182: Brenna Thiessen: Fun, Frugal Fridays and Getting Faster in the Quest to Qualify for Boston

Thank you for listening today, friends: we’ve got Brenna Thiessen joining today from Calgary! Brenna shares her journey today from shy non-runner to run club leader hosting weekly events, shooting for a Boston, Chicago and New York qualifying time at the Calgary Marathon. She chats with us about her run journey, relocating to Calgary, stepping away from running, and the improbable way she became a run club host with her club, Fun Frugal Fridays. In today’s episode, Brenna shares how her marathon goals evolved after her first race in Minneapolis, where she pushed through feeling terrible and still crossed the finish line proud. She breaks down her training approach, including navigating Calgary’s unpredictable weather—from chinook warmth to snow in May—and the importance of heat and hydration strategies on race day. The importance of community is a theme that runs strong on this podcast, and today’s episode doesn’t disappoint. You’ll hear the passion in her voice: discover the secret to making big life changes, from cross-country moves to launching a community organization, and how running has helped Brenna overcome shy tendencies and foster a sense of belonging. Whether you’re just heading out for your first run, training for your first 10k or a seasoned runner, remember: it’s all about taking that first step on the journey. Brenna’s story is packed with practical tips on managing training while maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle, including diet hacks, cross-training, and the importance of asking for help. She exemplifies how embracing vulnerability and staying true to yourself unlocks opportunities beyond your wildest dreams. Connect with Brenna and join her Calgary run community on Instagram at @iambthiessen and @FunFrugalFridayRunner What has running taught you about yourself? #EvolvingAdventure #CalgaryMarathon #RunningCommunity #MarathonTraining #YYCRunCrew #BurritoLeague Timestamps: 02:18 - Her personal best and recent race insights 04:14 - Calgary marathon week festivities and community events 06:33 - Insights on marathon participation rates and community size 08:23 - Brenna’s journey into running and overcoming health challenges 11:55 - Starting and growing the Fun Frugal Friday run club 13:36 - Managing weather challenges and event logistics in Calgary 15:49 - Community engagement and demographic reach of her run groups 17:50 - Participation during Calgary Stampede and weather considerations 19:27 - Weather impact on training and race day prep 21:04 - Tapering, race week activities, and marathon day plans 22:37 - Cross-training, alternative activities, and recovery strategies 23:37 - Nutrition, hydration, gels, and fueling for races 26:35 - Transitioning into trail running and significant trail races 29:45 - Challenge of trail running and race experiences like Minotaur 35:19 - Embracing new opportunities and future race plans 36:34 - Support systems, partnerships, and organizing community events 40:40 - Skills needed to start and manage a run club 43:36 - Moving from Vancouver to Calgary and lessons on making life changes 46:15 - The importance of community, belonging, and personal growth 48:22 - Advice to follow passions and staying true to oneself 49:47 - Connecting with Brenna and her Calgary run community Resources & Links: Fun Frugal Friday Run ClubBrenna Thiessen on InstagramLululemon CalgaryPrimal Sauna & Cold PlungeRun CalgaryBurrito LeagueMinotaur RaceBMO Vancouver Half MarathonConnect with Brenna: Instagram - @iambthiessen or @funfrugalfridayrunners

53 min
May 19

E181: Heidi Garner: The Magic of Night Running... and a Squirrel on Cocaine.

Thank you for listening today, friends! We've got a fun episode with Heidi Garner today, in which we'll learn what it's like to create artwork and merchandise for races, run a small business while navigating family schedules, and plan out an award-winning Javelina Jundred costume. Heidi also shares some of her hard-earned wisdom with us, including the relevance of squirrels on cocaine, the evolution of her creative process, and why it's important to train in the dark. Heidi’s stories remind us that sometimes, the most extraordinary moments happen when the world goes quiet and we venture into the dark. Heidi is an incredible artist, accomplished runners in ultras and on roads, and volunteer in the community. She isn't just an ultrarunner: she's an artist, mother, and passionate storyteller who believes that the little moments shared on the trail are what make races so special. She lives with her husband and children near the Canyons and Western States courses. The long quote Heidi provides comes from Jenny Lawson's book How To Be Okay When Nothing Is Okay. Use the discount code Greggi15 for 15% off on Heidi's website https://heidigarnerstudio.com/ Topics we cover include: Why Heidi loves night running, and how it transforms the racing experienceSpiritual and emotional benefits of running in the darkHow her artwork combines a love of trail running with the ultra communityThe storytelling behind custom race art and apparelBehind the scenes stories and memorable moments at Javelina and Western StatesThe importance of community, support, and shared moments that make ultrarunning more than just a sportBalancing creativity, training and family schedules… even during race season Timestamps: 02:03 - Night running as a favorite ultra feature 03:26 - The magic of running through the night 05:10 - How Heidi got into ultrarunning 06:40 - Transition from road running to trail ultras 07:41 - The trail community and trail races 10:00 - Family involvement and trail running for kids 13:20 - Heidi’s art development and connection to ultrarunning 17:44 - Creating race-specific apparel and collaborations 22:40 - The process of designing race merchandise 26:07 - How Heidi balances her creative work and running schedule 29:54 - Race planning, training, and managing life with four kids 32:23 - The importance of community and shared race experiences 36:45 - Memorable trail moments and meaningful conversations 38:48 - Small moments that create lasting memories in ultras 40:00 - Trail gifts and surprises on the trail 43:00 - Trail safety, first aid, and respecting nature 47:49 - Costumes, race antics, and fun race traditions 55:27 - Famous race moments and quirky race costumes 57:03 - Family support, community involvement, and race plans 64:19 - Upcoming events and exciting collaborations 67:40 - Costume stories, race highlights, and playful race culture 75:39 - The balance of humor, community, and trail adventure 78:35 - Connecting with Heidi on social media and supporting her work 79:01 - Closing thoughts and upcoming races Links Heidi Garner Studio — Official website and shopHeidi Garner Instagram — Follow Heidi’s latest designs and race updatesWestern States Course InfoJavelina JundredAravaipa RunningJenny LawsonHow To Be Okay When Nothing Is Okay

1h 20m
May 12

E180: Megan Flanagan: The Art of Belonging While Running Your Own Race

Thank you for listening today, friends! Today we’ll learn how Megan Flanagan combines her passion for running, community, and personal growth to create spaces for meaningful connection, including her innovative new app called BelongNow, Strong Runner Chicks (and upcoming retreat), and develop supportive networks. We explore her inspiring journey, plans for fostering meaningful human connections beyond the trail, and some mental skills that are helpful in both endurance sports and life contexts. Megan is the founder of Strong Runner Chicks, host of the Evolve Your Path podcast and coaches multi-passionate professionals and high achievers to redefine success on their own terms through Evolved Potential. Is there something holding you back from making a change? Follow along for inspiration and anecdotes from Megan’s inspiring story! Be sure to like and follow Megan, the Evolve Your Path podcast, me @cactusmoose and The Evolving Adventurer podcast Jump to: 02:18 - Megan's non-linear running journey from childhood to ultra races 04:43 - The explosion of ultrarunning and women's mental health advocacy 06:45 - The challenge of making new connections after moving, and in adulthood 07:44 - Megan’s mission with the BelongNow app to foster social connection and belonging 10:00 - How BelongNow promotes local events, shared interests, and network growth 12:44 - Gamification and incentivization for organizing community meetups 14:24 - Creating inclusive spaces that accommodate various paces and personalities 18:00 - The power of community in trailrunning and retreats for deep bonds 22:37 - Parallels between endurance racing and life's unpredictability 25:11 - Using mental reframing and visualization during races and setbacks 27:19 - Lessons learned from job layoffs and career transitions 29:34 - Managing stress, success, and expectations in high-performance environments 32:12 - Megan’s professional background in workplace well-being and holistic health 35:24 - Reflecting on personal growth, vision boards, and future goals 42:46 - Insights into organizing retreats: structure, community and lasting impact 50:03 - Building lifelong friendships through shared adventures and vulnerable conversations 52:53 - The subtle power of outdoor, trail, and group activities to enhance connection Resources Evolve Your Path PodcastEvolve with Megan InstagramEvolvedPotential.coStrong Run Chicks InstagramStrong Runner ChicksConnect on LinkedInBelongNowBelongNow Instagram

56 min
May 5

E179: Nails, Hair, Packs, Shoes with Sierra DeGroff

You've seen her hair and nails... now hear about her packs and shoes! We've got Sierra DeGroff on the podcast today chatting about her experiences at looped courses, competing for the 100K national team, and ordering custom gear for her adventures. Sierra shares about her transition from road marathons to trail ultras, her experiences building community, training and racing in Las Vegas, and her upcoming adventures, including Denali. She offers insights into race planning, shoe selection, pacing strategies, and balancing a busy schedule with recovery and health. Sierra moved to Las Vegas years ago, and struggled to find community so she started a run club... and met a fellow runner visiting from Boston the day we recorded. Vegas has perks for runners: no humidity, mild winters, and endless opportunities for adventure. You can even plan your outfits as carefully as your training runs! If you're curious to hear what it's like to compete in timed events, pace elites at Golden Ticket races, compete for a spot on the 100k national team, how to order your custom vest or where to meet for a run if you find yourself in Vegas midweek... tune in today! #TrailRunning #LasVegasRunning #RunningCommunity #AdventureAwaits Follow Sierra on Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠ Badwater to Whitney FKT Vegas Heat Running Group Exotic Pack Co Aravaipa Racing Team 100K National Team Vegas Heat Strava club Timestamps:01:37 - Connecting with local Vegas runners and community02:14 - Sierra's move from Midwest to Vegas03:43 - Living in Vegas, weather, and trail access05:08 - Insights into her running year, recent races, and course records08:42 - Race tactics and gear choices at Jackpot 50 miles10:10 - Race plans for Badwater, Western States, and Denali11:43 - Sierra's custom race gear and packs with Exotic Pacco15:02 - Race outfit coordination for Jackpot and Western States16:17 - Western States preparation and challenges18:33 - Upcoming race plans, permits, and Alaska adventures21:02 - Decision process for Denali versus Badwater and other bucket list races23:32 - Her travel plans post-Denali, including Alaska and in-race logistics26:33 - Maintaining pace and training in mountain versus road ultras28:16 - Race support, pacing, and community crew dynamics31:57 - How crews are chosen and maintaining team chemistry35:42 - Creatively designed gear, custom packs, and their significance43:39 - Strategy behind gear selection and apparel for performance and style45:21 - Footwear preferences, shoe brands, and injury prevention48:27 - Toenail care, race decisions, and recovery tips50:56 - Western States experiences, crew support, and reflections57:07 - The camaraderie and competition in trail and ultra running60:37 - International race ambitions62:00 - Balancing travel, adventure, and race goals in life63:32 - Candid thoughts on multiday ultras65:43 - Recovery process, training smarter, aging, and maintenance routines67:24 - The importance of investing in health, PT, massage, and wellness70:12 - Upcoming race and permit plans72:45 - Advice for runners starting out and stepping into the ultrarunning community

1h 14m
Apr 29

E178: Sarah June: Burritos, FKTs and the importance of food

Thank you for listening today, friends. Our guest today is Sarah June, @sarah.j.june, who finished as third female in Burrito League in Tempe, Arizona, which was livestreamed on the Mountain Outpost YouTube.. Sarah completed 807 miles on Mill Ave during January, which built up her confidence to tackle, and set the Fastest Known time (FKT) for the 247 mile Maricopa Loop in Arizona. It was neat to see the Burrito League community come out in support of her endeavor, which was generously supported by Mount To Coast. The Maricopa Loop FKT documentary is coming soon... stay tuned for that announcement! One of the key takeaways from Sarah's Burrito League experience is that community support plays a key role: it's not just about miles run, but the friendships formed along the way. Sarah is also a coach offering guidance for ultrarunners, and hosting a Flagstaff, AZ retreat in June. Check her Instagram for more details! Her 2026 adventures include competing in Sedona Canyons 125 as part of the Cocodona series, and an attempt at the ⁠Iceland Ring Road FKT later in the summer... perhaps with a ⁠Kula Cloth. #Ultrarunning #FKT #TrailCommunity #RunningJourney #SupportSquad Are you curious about how running can transform your body and perhaps your outlook on life? Tag a runner who needs to hear this! https://youtu.be/WJA9OVIFmEk

1 hr

5

out of 5

3 Ratings

The only constant in life is change... how can you keep an adventurous spirit while evolving through the ebbs and flows of life? Tune in to hear musings about personal growth, wisdom gained from time spent in nature, and meaningful discussions with inspiring and empowering folks moving through uncharted territory, sometimes both literally and figuratively. Connect via cactusmoose@protonmail.com

Creator

greggi v
Years Active

2020 - 2026
Episodes

204
Rating

Explicit
Copyright

© greggi v
Show Website

The Evolving Adventurer

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Updated May 19
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