The Evolving Adventurer

greggi v
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Spirituality
  • Updated Biweekly

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

  1. 4d ago

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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
  4. E179: Nails, Hair, Packs, Shoes with Sierra DeGroff

    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

  5. 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

  6. Apr 21

    E177: Candy, Costco and Manifesting Leadville with Margaret Spring

    Have you ever felt like giving up on a dream? Margaret Spring, @margaret_t_spring, almost did at mile 88 of the Leadville 100! Listen today to learn how she turned it around... Tag someone who’s chasing a dream against all odds! Three years ago, Margaret attempted the Leadville 100... it ended with a brutal DNF at mile 88. It was heart-wrenching, but it taught her resilience and the importance of perseverance. Jumping back to the present day, Margaret is back, training harder than ever, and ready to tackle the iconic Leadville course again! With each setback, she has learned more about my strength and determination. Margaret is also running for a cause close to her heart: the Annunciation Light Foundation. Join us as we recap Margaret's manifestation of a Leadville race entry through perseverance, her Grand Canyon adventures, fundraising for various causes, and her love of Costco for fueling up on candy. Thank you for listening along on her journey! #Leadville100 #RunningForACause #NeverGiveUp #trailrunning #ManifestingDreams In this episode you'll learn all aboutMargaret's history with Leadville and lessons from her first attempt at 100 miles, including how health setbacks influenced her comeback, how she's powered by candy, and how some of her running nad baking love developed. 00:00 - Introduction to Margaret’s journey and race manifesting 02:25 - Overcoming setbacks: illness before Leadville 100 04:47 - Training through autoimmune challenges and setbacks 06:42 - Manifesting race entry with humor and creativity 08:46 - Strategies for securing race spots: lotteries, giveaways, and competitions 11:31 - Practical fueling tips: candy, gels, and homemade replacements 17:47 - Race terrain facts: high altitude, Leadville trails 20:33 - Gear hacks: keeping hands warm and opening foods easily 22:45 - Fueling ideas: mini eggs, candies, and creative smoothies 26:12 - Favorite snacks: Smarties, Aero, Oreos, and international treats 30:21 - Candy and baking adventures: from Chief Candy Tasting Officer to sourdough starter stories 32:30 - Dental care and gear prep during ultra races 35:51 - Incorporating vegetables and healthy snacks into long runs 39:02 - Costco hacks for affordable race fueling and essentials 43:07 - Avoiding gut issues: food choices and real-food fueling 45:23 - The joy of running with cake and creating homemade race foods 52:30 - Reflections on community, shared adventures, and plans for future races 58:53 - Exploring trail hazards like snakes, and safety tips for high-altitude races 64:41 - Margaret’s Grand Canyon and international adventure stories 70:08 - Supporting loved ones and race experiences in iconic Colorado locations 77:15 - Dream races and bucket list adventures in Europe and beyond 82:16 - Collaborative ideas: cake league, pancake pop-ups, and custom race gear 86:44 - Reflections on ultrarunning communities and the spirit of fun competition Links: Annunciation Light Foundation Margaret Spring on Instagram Leadville 100 Race Official Site Cure Medullo Costco Skratch Labs O'Henry Candy Smarties Candy Cadbury UK

    1h 25m

  7. Apr 17

    E176: Surfing the menopause wave: laughs, challenges and BREAKING STUFF with Jen Laughlin

    Thank you for listening today, friends! We about to have a candid and humours chat with Jen Laughlin about her journey through menopause, unexpected growth as she supports women in midlife, and adventures in ultrarunning. You'll learn how honesty, humor, communication and community-building can empower women, and help tackle the physical and emotional challenges of aging, fitness, and life. Some of the topics we cover include: The unexpectedly viral success of funny social media reels highlighting women's shared experiences in menopausePractical insights into hormone replacement therapy (HRT), its effects, and how to manage changing hormonesThe connection between menopause, mental health and relationship dynamicsBody and brain changes during menopauseTips for getting more women into trail and ultrarunning, and to sign up for races and hard eventsA candid comparison of Tushars 100k and Mogollon Monster 100 miler including technical terrain, elevation, trail features and logisticsThe importance of community, inclusivity, and addressing safety concerns in women’s races and outdoor activitiesThe evolving landscape of race organization, volunteer roles, and race safety logistics, including supporting and increasing women’s participation in endurance sportsJen's InstagramUltraSignUp Race Results & ListingsMogollon Monster race infoTushars Mountain Runs infoJavelina JundredAravaipa RunningSquirrel's Nut ButterHormone Replacement Therapy InformationTimestamps: 02:15 - Going viral: menopause humor that connects women and is building a community 03:37 - The impact of social media on women’s mental health and shared experiences 05:03 - Insights on hormonal treatment, HRT, managing side effects, and body changes 06:14 - What men need to know about menopause and how to be supportive through the adventure 09:44 - Relationship dynamics during menopause and the importance of patience and communication 11:36 - The growth of women in endurance sports and strategies for more female participation 16:24 - The physical and mental benefits of adding testosterone, race training, and recovery 20:44 - Overcoming injury setbacks, mental health, and race goals in ultrarunning 27:45 - Race comparisons: Mogollon Monster versus Tushars 100k including trail features and difficulty levels 36:58 - The logistical and scenic aspects of iconic races like Mogollon Monster 100 miler and Tushars 100k 44:54 - Race records, course variations, and the importance of supporting diverse racers 51:34 - A behind the scenes look into volunteer opportunities, race organization, and the spirit of community support 65:14 - Strategies for encouraging more women to start ultrarunning, hiking, and trail running 77:36 - Promoting inclusivity, handling social media content, and supporting safe women’s events 81:14 - Behind the scenes at races: videos, social media evolution, and race day moments 84:42 - The importance of men understanding and supporting their partners through menopause 85:45 - Final thoughts: community, humor, and resilience in endurance sports and life

    1h 24m

  8. Mar 30

    E175: TJ Harms-Synkiew: Different flavors of Ultras

    Competing in Burrito League was the ultimate test for TJ Harms-Synkiew: a second-place finish with over 1,000 miles in 26 days… not on dirt or mountain trails, but navigating city streets, road crossings, physical pain and intense mental battles. He finished with grit, learning that patience and mental toughness matter just as much as miles. In an unexpected twist, TJ's biggest challenge wasn’t the miles, but managing the mental struggle — from feeling like giving up to finding confidence in pushing through pain. His story shows us that endurance isn’t just physical; it’s a mindset you build day by day. Something worth thinking about.What’s the biggest mental hurdle you’ve overcome in your journey? Let us know in the comments. Connect with TJ to follow his adventures and get inspired by his incredible endurance and passion for ultra running! Website: ⁠coachcrewpace.com⁠Instagram: ⁠@harmssynkiew⁠Substack: ⁠TJ Harms-Synkiew⁠Bighorn 100Ouray 100Leadville 100RunRabbitRun 100Crazy Mountain 100 Don't forget to like and subscribe to this podcast! The video version can be found on the CactusMoose YouTube channel. #UltraRunning #MentalToughness #EnduranceLife #RaceMindset #PushYourLimits

    58 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

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

Information

  • Creator
    greggi v
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    201
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © greggi v
  • Show Website
    The Evolving Adventurer