What's The Rusch

Rebecca Rusch

What’s the Rusch is a podcast about finding stillness and shedding the armor we wear to reveal the masterpiece within. Hosted by Rebecca Rusch—a seven-time world champion, Hall of Fame athlete, celebrated endurance icon, Emmy winner, and founder of the Athlete Operating System—the show takes listeners on a transformative journey with some of the world’s most accomplished individuals. Known as the "Queen of Pain" for her unmatched grit, Rebecca shifts the spotlight to a deeper truth: the most profound growth often comes not from what we achieve, but from what we let go of.    Inspired by Michelangelo’s insight in creating the statue of David by chiseling away everything that wasn’t David, Rebecca champions the art of shedding: shedding fear, baggage, and the armor we build to protect ourselves. Each episode delves behind the scenes of high achievers, exploring what they’ve had to lose to become whole. What identities have they outgrown? What vulnerabilities have unlocked their greatest triumphs? And what lessons can we take from their private battles to shed what no longer serves us?   With conversations navigating ancient wisdom, modern science, and personal revelation, What’s the Rusch redefines the boxes we’re put in, revealing the hidden versions of who people are and the powerful truths they carry. Rebecca’s own path—marked by extreme challenges and moments of vulnerability—sets the tone for uncovering the humanity behind the headlines.   This is more than a podcast—it’s an explorer’s guide to becoming your own masterpiece by pausing and removing everything that isn’t you. Through the stories of leaders you know and the truths you don’t, What’s the Rusch invites you to embrace the courage to shed your armor, redefine your identity, and navigate your own extraordinary and adventurous path.

Episodes

  1. 3D AGO

    Butterfly in a Blizzard: with Kimmy Fasani | EP6

    In this powerful episode of What’s the Rusch, host Rebecca Rusch sits down with pioneering snowboarder, entrepreneur, and mother, Kimmy Fasani. Kimmy shares her extraordinary journey from breaking boundaries in professional snowboarding to facing one of life’s most difficult challenges: an aggressive cancer diagnosis. Through candid and heartfelt storytelling, Kimmy reveals how she found resilience in the face of adversity, the lessons she learned about surrendering control, and the power of community and advocacy in women’s sports. She opens up about navigating motherhood while maintaining a professional career, redefining success on her terms, and how her latest film, Butterfly in a Blizzard, captures the raw beauty of overcoming life’s most profound struggles. Take in this inspiring conversation on resilience, reinvention, and embracing the unpredictable nature of life. Transformative Insights How letting go of control can open the door to unexpected strength.The importance of changing industry norms to better support women in sports.How community, movement, and self-awareness help navigate life’s biggest challenges.The power of showing up authentically, even in the hardest moments. Vulnerable Moments Kimmy’s battle with self-doubt and fear when advocating for maternity rights.Her cancer diagnosis and how it shattered her sense of identity as a professional athlete.The pain of losing her mother and how it shaped her perspective on life, loss, and motherhood.Her struggle to let go of perfection in parenting, career, and recovery. Practical Wisdom How to advocate for yourself in male-dominated spaces.Strategies for balancing ambition and self-compassion in high-performance careers.The importance of nature as a healing force through trauma and transformation.Why pivots in life don’t mean endings—they’re just new directions. Personal Growth Kimmy’s shift from proving herself to redefining success on her terms.Learning to embrace change, uncertainty, and imperfection.Finding strength in community, vulnerability, and self-trust. Links Butterfly in a Blizzard Documentary Film Kimmy Fasani - Website Support What's the Rusch: Love the show? Write us a review! Rebecca Rusch Website Blood Road Brain Storm Podcast Ted Talk Be Good Foundation Social Media Links Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Substack YouTube

    1h 1m
  2. MAR 19

    Resilience and The Art of Letting Go with Cory Richards | EP5

    In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca sits down with world-renowned photographer, adventurer, mental health advocate, and storyteller Cory Richards for an unfiltered conversation about resilience, identity, and the power of letting go. Cory has been on the highest peaks in the world and captured some of the most breathtaking images. But his greatest expedition has been the journey within. From surviving an avalanche to navigating childhood trauma, bipolar disorder, and personal loss, Cory has spent his life confronting the depths of the human experience and outlines them in his stunning book, The Color of Everything. Together, we discuss the difference between survival and true resilience, why crisis can be the greatest catalyst for transformation, and how leaning into discomfort often leads to the biggest breakthroughs. Cory opens up about identity shifts, the weight of expectations, and redefining his purpose. This conversation is an invitation to examine the stories we tell ourselves, to strip away the labels that no longer serve us, and to embrace the messy, beautiful process of becoming. Transformative Insights True resilience comes from releasing instead of holding onCrisis as a catalyst for growthThe difference between survival and resilienceDefining purpose internally versus externally Vulnerable Moments Cory opens up about his lifelong journey with mental health, including his bipolar diagnosis and childhood struggles.He shares the emotional toll of recently losing his father and navigating identity shiftsCory discusses the importance of the intentional community he has built and the deep gratitude he feels for those people. Practical Wisdom Leaning into curiosity as a directional toolReframing trauma as a teacher Embracing and cultivating the power of community The practice of Imago therapy in communication and relationshipDaily acts of giving and kindness Personal Growth Cory’s evolving identity and current purpose: to connect people to themselvesCory’s journey of learning to trust, rather than thrust, his way forward.Letting go of old survival scripts and developing new resilience toolsViewing pain and hardship with gratitude for their lessonsRoadmap for resilience: agency, endurance, curiosity, and adaptation Links CORY RICHARDS Website "The Color of Everything" - by Cory Richards Support What's the Rusch: Love the show? Write us a review! Rebecca Rusch Links Website Blood Road Brain Storm Podcast Ted Talk Be Good Foundation Social Media Links Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Substack YouTube

    1h 3m
  3. MAR 12

    The Midlife Chrysalis: with Chip Conley & Christine Sperber | EP4

    Rebecca Rusch welcomes Chip Conley and Christine Sperber, co-founders of Modern Elder Academy (MEA), the world's first midlife wisdom school. This insightful conversation explores how to reframe midlife transitions from crisis to chrysalis, the importance of embracing physical well-being through all life stages, and how to navigate personal reinvention with intention and purpose. Transformative Insights The idea that midlife is not a crisis but a chrysalis—a time of deep transformation rather than decline.How wisdom isn't about what you know, but how well you metabolize experience and share it with others.The shift from an achievement-based mindset to one that values presence, purpose, and service.The importance of embracing "liminality"—the space between no longer and not yet—as a necessary stage for growth. Vulnerable Moments Honest reflections on identity shifts—how letting go of old titles and roles can be both liberating and terrifying.Stories of failure and reinvention, reinforcing that growth often comes from the moments when life doesn't go as planned. Practical Wisdom How to cultivate a growth mindset in midlife and beyond, seeing aging as an opportunity rather than a decline.The role of daily rituals and intentional community in fostering resilience and well-being.The practice of microdosing wisdom—taking in small, intentional lessons each day rather than chasing grand epiphanies. Personal Growth How curiosity is the antidote to stagnation and the key to reinvention at any stage of life.The idea that we are always in the process of becoming—embracing evolution rather than clinging to a fixed identity.The role of mentorship in both giving and receiving—how being a "modern elder" means balancing wisdom with humility.A call to action: Don’t wait for permission to redefine yourself—step into your next chapter with intention. Upcoming MEA Events: Midlife Mastery Summit: March 14-16, 2025 MEA Workshop with Rebecca and David Stewart:  May 26 - 31, Sante Fe, NM MEA Film Festival  Dec 15-20, Sante Fe, NM Links Blood Road Film Modern Elder Academy Website Support What's the Rusch: Love the show? Write us a review! Sponsor Thank you so much to our sponsor Momentous. They are offering you 20% off your first order. You can go to the Momentous Website and use code RUSCH20 for your discount. Rebecca Rusch Links Website Blood Road Brain Storm Podcast Ted Talk Be Good Foundation Social Media Links a...

    1h 8m
  4. MAR 5

    The Science of Support: Dr. Stacy Sims on Community, Crisis, and Her Own Survival | EP3

    In this powerful and intimate conversation, Rebecca Rusch sits down with renowned scientist and women's performance expert Dr. Stacy Sims. Together they explore the intersection of science, athletics, mental health, and what it means to be a woman pushing boundaries in male-dominated fields. From childhood curiosity to professional triumphs and personal struggles, this conversation dives deep into the reality behind public personas and the importance of vulnerability and support systems. Key Topics & Timestamps: 00:04 - Introduction and mutual admiration between Rebecca and Stacy  01:52 - Discussion of public personas versus private realities  02:54 - Early life influences: The convergence of science and athletics  04:30 - Brain-body connection and the importance of hypothalamic function  07:11 - Breaking barriers in women's health research and COVID's impact on sex-based medicine  10:22 - Personal story of challenging gender norms in military careers  15:32 - Mental health struggles and rebuilding after crisis  24:52 - Creating a new path in academia and entrepreneurship  35:27 - Evolution from competitive athlete to advocate for purposeful movement  49:54 - Current challenges with international travel and work-life balance  53:18 - New project announcement: NextGen course focusing on puberty education Notable Quotes: "We put on this thing to get through stuff, but the real person's behind it." - Dr. Stacy Sims “Do you think that growth has to come from these really deep, dark places? Like, do we have to get to that point?” - Dr. Stacy Sims  “Because we are expected to put on a front and take everything stoically, people I don't think realize that we are actually human.” -Dr. Stacy Sims  "By the nature of being human, we're not designed to be alone. And we're not designed to build the burden and hold that burden for everyone else." - Dr. Stacy Sims "If I'm going to get in the ocean and do a swim, I want to do it because it's fun and relaxing, not because someone's trying to swim over me and get out first." - Dr. Stacy Sims Key Takeaways: The importance of support systems in both professional and personal successHow mental health challenges can lead to transformative growthThe evolution from competitive athletics to purposeful movementBreaking down barriers in women's health research and educationThe value of vulnerability in leadership and advocacy LOVE THE SHOW? DON'T FORGET TO FOLLOW AND REVIEW THE SHOW! THANKS FOR LISTENING! Resources Mentioned: Dr. Stacy Sims' books and online coursesTED Talk: "Women Are Not Small Men" Follow Along: Connect with Dr. Stacy Sims: Website: https://www.drstacysims.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstacysims/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drstacysimsTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drstacysims Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-t-sims-phd/ YouTube: a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPD55VPa1ZWx1a_nzWC2VJA" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    1 hr
  5. FEB 26

    Disruption, Durability, Dialog: With Juliet and Kelly Starrett

    In this revealing episode of What's the Rusch, Rebecca sits down with fitness pioneers Kelly and Juliet Starrett to strip away the polished exterior of their fitness empire and explore the raw, human journey that shaped their approach to resilience, relationships, and redefining strength. Show Notes: The Layers We Shed: Kelly's journey from competitive paddler to injury, forcing him to shed his athlete identity and find a new pathJuliet's experience with cancer at age 20, challenging her perception of invincibility and physical prowessTheir shared process of removing the armor of perfectionism in the fitness industryHow letting go of traditional work-life boundaries led to a more authentic partnership Finding the Masterpiece Within: The evolution from physical durability to emotional resilienceCreating the "feelings meeting" as a tool for vulnerable communicationBuilding meaningful relationships beyond professional achievementsBreaking generational patterns of divorce and dysfunctionThe courage to speak publicly about personal struggles despite industry judgment Key Insights: "We feel like being durable is the golden key. Things are gonna happen to you... What is your plan to make yourself as durable as you can to hit that hit?" - Kelly Starrett"I had to cast aside that feeling of 'am I, this cancer person, to be shucking out advice to people?'" - Juliet Starrett Transformative Moments: Their first meeting during high-stakes whitewater racing in ChileKelly's transition from elite athlete to movement specialistJuliet finding her public voice beyond the businessCreating space for meaningful male friendships and community The Art of Slowing Down: Juliet's vision of the "four-hour workday" by age 55Kelly's journey to create space for deeper relationshipsFinding balance between high achievement and personal connection About the Guests: Kelly and Juliet Starrett have revolutionized how we think about movement and resilience. Beyond their New York Times bestseller "Built to Move" and their platform The Ready State, they've spent 25 years showing that true strength comes not just from physical capability, but from the courage to be vulnerable and authentic. Join Rebecca Rusch as she explores how these fitness pioneers have learned to shed their armor, embrace their struggles, and find power in their most human moments. This conversation reveals that sometimes our greatest achievements come not from what we build up, but from what we're brave enough to let go. Discover more at www.RebeccaRusch.com  SPONSOR Thank you so much to our sponsor Momentous. They are offering you 20% off your first order.  Livemomentous.com Use code RUSCH20. Links: "Built to Move" by Juliet Starrett and Kelly Starrett"Deskbound" by Kelly Starrett, Juliet Starrett, and Glen Cordoza“Becoming a Supple Leopard” by Dr. Kelly Starrett The Ready State website: https://thereadystate.com/ Connect with Our Guests  Instagram: @thereadystate  Facebook: a...

    1h 16m
  6. FEB 19

    The Approval Trap: The Dark Side of Success | EP1

    In this inaugural episode of What's the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch sits down with renowned performance psychologist Dr. Michael Gervais for an intimate conversation about the journey from high performance to true mastery. Together, they explore how sometimes our greatest breakthroughs come not from pushing harder, but from having the courage to be still. Show notes: In this episode, Rebecca and Dr. Gervais discuss:  The distinction between high performance and masteryWhy the first rule of mastery is to stop worrying about what others thinkThe power of vulnerability in personal growthFinding wisdom through stillness and self-examination Transformative Insights: The three foundational practices for meeting yourself: meditation, journaling, and conversations with people of wisdomHow trauma and hardship can be gateways to deeper understandingWhy purpose and connection are the two key variables for a fulfilled lifeThe difference between being thoughtful and true meditation Vulnerable Moments: Rebecca opens up about hiding her concussion symptoms for yearsDr. Gervais shares his journey of understanding his own drive for achievementRebecca discusses her mother's recent passing and the tools for processing griefBoth explore their ongoing work to shed perfectionism and find play Practical Wisdom: How to approach meditation as a practice of starting overThe importance of creating space for vulnerability in high achievementWhy awareness is fundamental to high performanceTools for building authentic community Personal Growth: Dr. Gervais's ongoing journey to embrace play over intensityRebecca's evolution from "Queen of Pain" to embracing vulnerabilityHow traumatic experiences can become catalysts for transformationThe power of sharing our struggles to help others Helpful Links:  https://findingmastery.com/  https://www.instagram.com/michaelgervais/?hl=en  https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichaelgervais/  https://x.com/michaelgervais?lang=en  The First Rule of Mastery: Stop Worrying About What People Think of You Finding Mastery Podcast: Explorer's Guide to Self-Discovery with Rebecca Rusch SPONSOR Thank you so much to our sponsor Momentous. They are offering you 20% off your first order.  Livemomentous.com Use code RUSCH20. PROMOTIONAL OFFERS: “Our minds are our greatest asset… and if you want to learn more about how you can train your mind, I want to encourage you to check out Dr. Gervais’ online high performance mindset course -- Finding Your Best – where he’s pulled together THE best practices to help you unlock your potential and perform at your best in any environment. In Finding Your Best, Dr. Gervais teaches the same high-performance...

    1h 7m
  7. FEB 11

    The Start of it All

    In the inaugural episode of 'What's the Rush' podcast, Rebecca Rusch shares her journey as a world champion athlete and adventurer, exploring themes of personal growth, identity, and the importance of introspection. Through her experiences in endurance sports and transformative expeditions, particularly the emotional journey of finding her father's crash site, she emphasizes the significance of slowing down and looking inward. The podcast aims to uncover the true selves beneath the armor of achievement and invites listeners to join her in exploring life's profound lessons. Episode Highlights:Rebecca's journey from competitive athlete to mindful adventurerThe pivotal moment tracing her father's footsteps that changed everythingRedefining success beyond achievements and accoladesThe balance between external adventure and internal exploration A Hall of Fame endurance athlete and seven-time world champion, Rebecca has conquered some of the world's most challenging terrains. Now, she's embarking on her most meaningful expedition yet—exploring the landscape within. Join Rebecca as she introduces a new kind of adventure story, one that teaches us that sometimes the most important discoveries happen when we dare to slow down. Partner with us https://www.rebeccarusch.com/_files/ugd/e51e56_a4f5d124f3584aff85f267fa6148f558.pdf Links Website Blood Road Brain Storm Podcast Ted Talk Be Good Foundation Social Media Links Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Substack YouTube

    27 min

Trailer

4.8
out of 5
25 Ratings

About

What’s the Rusch is a podcast about finding stillness and shedding the armor we wear to reveal the masterpiece within. Hosted by Rebecca Rusch—a seven-time world champion, Hall of Fame athlete, celebrated endurance icon, Emmy winner, and founder of the Athlete Operating System—the show takes listeners on a transformative journey with some of the world’s most accomplished individuals. Known as the "Queen of Pain" for her unmatched grit, Rebecca shifts the spotlight to a deeper truth: the most profound growth often comes not from what we achieve, but from what we let go of.    Inspired by Michelangelo’s insight in creating the statue of David by chiseling away everything that wasn’t David, Rebecca champions the art of shedding: shedding fear, baggage, and the armor we build to protect ourselves. Each episode delves behind the scenes of high achievers, exploring what they’ve had to lose to become whole. What identities have they outgrown? What vulnerabilities have unlocked their greatest triumphs? And what lessons can we take from their private battles to shed what no longer serves us?   With conversations navigating ancient wisdom, modern science, and personal revelation, What’s the Rusch redefines the boxes we’re put in, revealing the hidden versions of who people are and the powerful truths they carry. Rebecca’s own path—marked by extreme challenges and moments of vulnerability—sets the tone for uncovering the humanity behind the headlines.   This is more than a podcast—it’s an explorer’s guide to becoming your own masterpiece by pausing and removing everything that isn’t you. Through the stories of leaders you know and the truths you don’t, What’s the Rusch invites you to embrace the courage to shed your armor, redefine your identity, and navigate your own extraordinary and adventurous path.

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