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The podcast features Rich Roll, Chris Hauth, and Caroline Burckle discussing their recent training camp at Donner Lake, focusing on swimrun training at high altitude. They describe a rigorous day of training, including a three-mile swim and multiple running segments, while wearing prototype wetsuits and managing the heat. Chris shares his struggles with pace and heart rate, attributing it to altitude, heat, and recent travel fatigue. They emphasize the importance of communication and teamwork during training, noting that transitions need improvement to save time during the race. Caroline, a former Olympian, discusses her injury and recovery, highlighting the significance of listening to one’s body and the lessons learned from her experience. They touch on the need for proper nutrition and hydration during training, as well as the importance of mental preparation for the upcoming race. The conversation also covers the necessity of adapting training plans to individual needs and the evolving nature of coaching techniques. They conclude with plans for future training sessions and the excitement of participating in the upcoming race, emphasizing the adventure and camaraderie involved in their preparation.

Cody Simpson discusses his unique journey as both a musician and an aspiring Olympic swimmer, drawing parallels between the two disciplines. He began sharing his music on MySpace at age 12, which led to his discovery by a producer and a move to the U.S. at 14. His family supported this transition, despite financial challenges. Simpson reflects on the pressures of fame and the importance of resilience, stating that failure is merely information. He emphasizes the significance of his family's encouragement and his desire to pursue his dreams. Simpson's siblings also have creative pursuits; his brother is a concert pianist, and his sister works in TV and fashion. He acknowledges the influence of his parents, both athletes, on his career choices. After a successful music career, he decided to return to swimming, motivated by a desire to prove himself and inspired by the Olympic spirit he witnessed at the Rio Games. He recounts his early struggles in swimming, including a disappointing first race back, but credits his determination and the support of his coaches for his progress. Simpson emphasizes the importance of mental resilience and the need to embrace discomfort to grow. He also discusses the challenges of transitioning from a major record label to an independent artist, highlighting the value of owning his music rights. As he prepares for the upcoming Olympics, Simpson reflects on the excitement of competing again and the potential for growth in his swimming career. He expresses gratitude for the lessons learned through both music and sports, emphasizing the importance of following one's passion and staying true to oneself.

Katie Hoff, known as the female Michael Phelps, began her swimming career at a young age, making her first Olympic team at just 15. She achieved three Olympic medals and numerous records but faced immense pressure and expectations that impacted her career. In her conversation with Rich Roll, Katie discusses her journey, including the highs of her early success and the lows of disappointment, which she explores in her memoir, "Blueprint." Katie shares her experience of meeting Jesse Itzler, who inspired her to pursue public speaking after her swimming career. Their connection led to her teaching him how to swim, highlighting the unexpected relationships formed outside the competitive swimming world. She reflects on the transition from elite athlete to the corporate world, emphasizing the struggle of redefining her identity after swimming. Katie candidly discusses the emotional toll of her career, including the pressure to succeed and the disappointment of not achieving the expected accolades. She recounts the challenges of her Olympic experiences, particularly in Beijing, where despite winning medals, she felt she had failed to meet expectations. The conversation touches on the importance of mental health in sports, with Katie advocating for better support systems for athletes. She emphasizes the need for open communication and understanding from parents and coaches, encouraging them to listen rather than impose solutions. Katie also reflects on her health struggles, including a pulmonary embolism that forced her to reevaluate her career. She discusses the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in sharing her story, both for herself and for others who may relate to her experiences. The conversation concludes with Katie expressing her excitement for future endeavors, particularly in public speaking and mentoring young athletes, as she aims to inspire others through her journey of overcoming challenges and finding purpose beyond competitive swimming.

Gwen Jorgensen, a 2016 Olympic gold medalist in triathlon, discusses her journey from being a swimmer to pursuing marathon running. She emphasizes the importance of recovery in training, stating that improvement does not happen daily but rather over weeks and months. Gwen reflects on her transition from a conservative career as a CPA to embracing the risks of competitive sports, ultimately leading her to win gold in Rio. At the peak of her triathlon career, she made the bold decision to switch to marathon running, aiming for Olympic victory in a discipline where no American woman has won since 1984. Gwen shares her experiences with injuries, including a recent surgery for Haglund's deformity, and how it has impacted her training. She highlights the significance of surrounding herself with better athletes, which motivates her to improve. Gwen's husband, Patrick, plays a crucial role in her life, supporting her ambitions and helping her navigate the challenges of being a professional athlete and a mother. She discusses the balance between family life and training, noting that her son Stanley helps her focus on recovery and brings joy to her life. Throughout the conversation, Gwen emphasizes the importance of setting bold goals and being vocal about them, as it holds her accountable. She also reflects on the mental aspects of training, including managing self-doubt and the fear of success. Gwen's approach to running is informed by her past experiences in swimming and triathlon, where she learned to focus on the process rather than just the outcomes. As she prepares for the upcoming Olympic Trials, Gwen expresses confidence in her abilities and the support of her team. She acknowledges the unique challenges of marathon training compared to her previous sports and remains committed to her goal of winning Olympic gold. The conversation concludes with Gwen's insights on the importance of celebrating successes and the value of community in sports.

Lindsey Vonn shares insights about her life as a professional skier and her upcoming retirement. Currently splitting her time between Los Angeles and Colorado, she is focused on her last season on the World Cup circuit, aiming to break the record of 86 wins. Vonn discusses the challenges of training, especially with her injuries, and how her workouts have evolved over the years. She emphasizes the importance of mental resilience and grit, attributing her success to a passion for skiing and a strong work ethic instilled by her family. Vonn also reflects on her role as a mentor and role model for young girls, highlighting her foundation that empowers them through scholarships and programs. She addresses the pressures of social media and the misconceptions about her life, including her struggles with depression. Vonn expresses a desire to enjoy her final season without the burden of expectations and looks forward to new opportunities post-retirement, including potential ventures in Hollywood. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the significance of surrounding herself with supportive people and maintaining her passion for skiing as a source of happiness.

Lindsay Crouse emphasizes the need for investment in girls' sports, advocating for a focus on the unique challenges female athletes face. She highlights the importance of scientific research tailored to women's athletic development, educating coaches on nurturing female athletes, and helping girls understand the pressures they encounter. Crouse points out that many talented female athletes, like Mary Cain, face burnout and injury due to harmful coaching practices and societal expectations. She hopes that the conversation around these issues will lead to a culture where athletes can excel without compromising their health. Crouse, a producer and writer at the New York Times, has reported on significant stories in women's sports, including the experiences of athletes like Mary Cain and Allyson Felix regarding maternity rights. Her piece on Cain, detailing the abuse she suffered under coach Alberto Salazar, resonated widely, illustrating the systemic issues in women's sports. Crouse believes that many female athletes are unaware of their rights and that the culture often normalizes harmful practices. The discussion also touches on the broader implications of women's sports, including the need for more female coaches and decision-makers in sports organizations. Crouse argues that the current sports science is predominantly male-focused and that this needs to change to support female athletes effectively. She expresses hope that increased visibility and support for women's sports will lead to a cultural shift, empowering women to take control of their narratives and advocate for their rights. Crouse's personal journey in running reflects her professional experiences, as she navigates the pressures of performance while advocating for change in the sports landscape. She shares her struggles with injuries and the importance of finding joy in running, emphasizing that athletes should not have to harm themselves to succeed. The conversation concludes with Crouse encouraging young female athletes to speak up about their experiences and seek help when needed, reinforcing the message that success should not come at the cost of their well-being.

Beijing at 41 was not a closing chapter but a landmark act of athletic longevity for Dara Torres. She became the oldest American swimmer on a US Olympic team and the oldest to win an Olympic medal, while breaking the national record in the 50-yard freestyle. Her journey includes a dramatic 2000 comeback after seven years away and a postpartum return that began with three weeks after giving birth and quickly led to Olympic trials. Torres notes swimming’s evolution from a underfunded, youth-focused sport to a sponsored, performance-driven arena, where targeted training and recovery enabled a fourth Olympic bid. She reflects on how age and parenthood were once seen as barriers, and how her story reframed what is possible for athletes, especially women, who stay in competition longer than expected. Her training approach emerged from collaboration and listening to the body. She credits Richard Quick for changing her stroke and introducing recovery-centered strategies, including a broader team of specialists so she could train efficiently rather than pile on yardage. She recalls the lesson that the body needs rest to adapt, illustrated by a maximal 25 test followed by her best practice after a weekend off. The shift from old-school volume to efficiency—using core strength and whole-body movement to match race demands—became central to longevity. Torres also explains how she balanced competing with teenagers while maintaining discipline and a relentless competitive drive. After retiring as an elite swimmer, Torres moved into coaching, eventually taking the head job at Boston College. She describes the administrative load, recruiting without scholarships, and building a program from the ground up, while maintaining a clear focus on confidence as the outcome she wants for her athletes. She discusses the importance of listening to individual athletes, recognizing different learning styles, and creating a supportive, ego-free team environment. She also addresses safety in sport, noting USA Swimming Safe Sport measures and background checks. Beyond the pool, she reflects on her own journey with an eating disorder in college, the path to recovery, and how that history informs her approach to mentoring young athletes and their families. Her message to listeners: pursue dreams across the arc of life, and rely on a trusted team to unlock sustainable excellence.

In this episode of The Drive, host Peter Attia welcomes Sasha Cohen, an American figure skating legend and silver medalist from the 2006 Olympics. Attia discusses the podcast's ad-free model, emphasizing the importance of trust and the value of listener support in sharing knowledge about health and longevity. Cohen reflects on her Olympic journey, particularly the pressure she faced in 2006 after being a favorite, having previously placed fourth in 2002. She recounts the challenges leading up to the Olympics, including injuries and equipment issues, which left her feeling unprepared. Despite these challenges, she performed well in the short program, landing her jumps and securing first place, which brought her a moment of triumph amidst the pressure. The conversation delves into the psychological aspects of competition, including the fear of failure and the intense scrutiny athletes face. Cohen shares her experiences of feeling vulnerable and the importance of maintaining a brave face in front of competitors and the public. She discusses the unique pressures of figure skating, where a single mistake can drastically affect rankings, and the mental resilience required to continue performing after a fall. Cohen also reflects on her life post-skating, emphasizing the struggle of redefining her identity after retiring from a sport that had consumed her life. She highlights the common experience among Olympians of facing depression and identity loss after their careers, noting that many athletes feel isolated and disconnected from their former lives. The discussion touches on the societal pressures placed on athletes and the unrealistic expectations that can lead to feelings of inadequacy. Throughout the episode, Cohen emphasizes the importance of relationships and community in finding fulfillment beyond athletic achievements. She shares her journey of self-discovery, including her interest in acting and the lessons learned from motherhood. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the fleeting nature of success and the need to cultivate a sense of self that is not solely tied to accomplishments. Cohen's insights provide a poignant reminder of the complexities of identity, the pressures of performance, and the importance of emotional health in the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment.

Des Linden discusses her whirlwind life following her Boston Marathon victory, highlighting the unexpected mainstream attention on women's marathon running. She reflects on her training journey, including a significant break that helped her rediscover her passion for the sport. Linden shares that her expectations were tempered going into Boston due to inconsistent training, but she found motivation in the race's history and her desire to win. During the race, she initially struggled but shifted her mindset by focusing on helping fellow competitors like Shalane Flanagan. This selflessness became a pivotal moment, showcasing her character and camaraderie among American female marathoners. As she took the lead, she relied on her mental toughness, recalling past experiences and the importance of staying present despite physical discomfort. Linden emphasizes the significance of persistence in her career, stating that failure is an action, not an identity. She encourages others to embrace challenges and keep showing up, whether in running or life. With newfound attention, she feels a sense of responsibility as a role model for young girls, advocating for self-discovery and passion in pursuing one's interests. As she looks ahead, Linden expresses excitement about future races and the opportunity to choose events that resonate with her. She acknowledges the growing strength of American women in marathon running, attributing it to increased support and opportunities in the sport. Ultimately, her journey reflects a blend of hard work, resilience, and a love for running, inspiring others to pursue their dreams.

Gustav Iden and Kristian Blumenfelt, both from Bergen, Norway, have made significant strides in triathlon, with Iden recently winning the Ironman World Championship in Kona and Blumenfelt being the reigning Olympic champion. Their friendship and rivalry have fueled their training and performances, leading to record-breaking achievements. Iden set a new Kona course record, while Blumenfelt recorded the fastest Ironman time in history during the Sub7 project. In their conversation, they reflect on their recent race experiences, discussing the intense competition and their unique training methods. They emphasize the importance of iteration, sleep, and tactical decision-making in racing. Both athletes train together, pushing each other to excel while maintaining a supportive dynamic. They acknowledge the pressure of expectations but also the thrill of competing against each other. Iden expresses confidence in his abilities, stating that he did not rely on past performances for motivation. Blumenfelt, on the other hand, feels unfinished business after placing third in Kona and is determined to improve. They discuss their training protocols, which include advanced data analysis and lactate testing to optimize performance. Their coach, Olav Alexander Boo, plays a crucial role in tailoring their training plans based on individual needs. The athletes also touch on the cultural aspects of their training environment in Bergen, attributing their success to a supportive community and a long-term vision for their careers. They believe that their rigorous training and scientific approach have set them apart from other competitors. As they prepare for upcoming races, including the Paris Olympics, they remain focused on their goals and the camaraderie that drives them. They share insights on recovery, nutrition, and the importance of maintaining a balance between training intensity and rest. Ultimately, their journey reflects a blend of hard work, strategic planning, and a deep passion for the sport.

The episode centers on two showcase moments in American sports and the national mood they elicited. The host reflects on the USA men’s hockey team’s Olympic victory, drawing connections to historic triumphs and the enduring idea of American grit. The narrative moves from the on-ice drama—sudden-death overtime, a game-winning goal, and the players’ unabashed celebration—to the behind-the-scenes sense of national pride, illustrated by public reactions from bars, campuses, and families. The host emphasizes camaraderie, sacrifice, and the sense that ordinary people invest in extraordinary moments, creating a shared experience that transcends politics. Attention then shifts to Alysa Liu, highlighting her journey, resilience, and refusal to yield to setbacks. The discussion frames her path as a broader message about perseverance, self-determination, and the joy found in the struggle. The host contrasts Liu’s ethos with the pressures athletes face from media scrutiny, and he juxtaposes her approach with other athletes’ stories, celebrating a breakthrough moment in women’s figure skating while noting the challenges and expectations that accompany elite competition. The conversation broadens to political commentary, weaving in reactions to a provocative televised exchange involving prominent politicians. The host critiques media coverage and partisan rhetoric, calling out what he sees as selective amplification and misrepresentation. He probes the culture around political athletes and public figures, arguing that allegiance to country should supersede partisan posturing, especially in the context of national events that galvanize public sentiment. The segment also surveys upcoming political theatre, including anticipated speeches and protests, and laments strategies that appear designed to distance legislators from shared civic rituals. Throughout, the host interlaces cultural references, media critiques, and personal anecdotes, using sports and national identity as a lens to explore themes of pride, resilience, and belonging. He closes by reaffirming a preference for focusing on individual achievement and universal values over partisan divides, and he hints at continuing coverage of the intersecting worlds of sports, media, and politics in future episodes.

The Rich Roll podcast features a special episode from Paris with guests Katie Hoff, Elizabeth Beisel, and Chris Morgan, discussing the Olympic atmosphere and swimming. Katie expresses excitement about returning to the Olympics after 16 years, feeling a sense of peace and appreciation for the experience. Elizabeth reflects on her transition from athlete to correspondent, noting the cathartic realization of her past achievements. Chris shares insights from living abroad and covering swimming for French television, highlighting the emotional engagement of the French audience. They discuss the recent success of French swimmer Leon Marshon, who won a medal in the 400 IM, and the electric atmosphere at the pool during the finals. The conversation shifts to the intense mental preparation athletes undergo before races, emphasizing the importance of mindset in elite competition. They also touch on the differences in training approaches, with a shift towards shorter events and a focus on explosiveness. The group highlights the camaraderie among swimmers, contrasting it with the more theatrical nature of other sports. They discuss the evolving culture of mental health support in athletics, noting the importance of addressing psychological well-being alongside physical training. The podcast concludes with reflections on the unique stories emerging from the Olympics and the excitement surrounding the upcoming LA 2028 Games, emphasizing the unifying spirit of the Olympics amidst a fractured world.

Danica Patrick discusses her upcoming retirement from racing, specifically her participation in the Daytona 500 and the Indy 500, which she refers to as her "Danica double goodbye." She expresses her readiness to transition out of racing, citing a desire to explore other interests and a sense of closure after a challenging period in 2017 when she faced sponsorship issues and multiple accidents. Patrick reflects on the intensity of her profession, noting that racing at speeds of up to 240 mph requires a unique mindset, similar to that of fighter pilots who rely on intuition and instinct. She shares her journey into racing, starting with go-karts at a young age and her decision to pursue engineering to better understand race cars. Throughout the conversation, she touches on themes of intuition, the influence of astrology, and the importance of trusting one's instincts in high-pressure situations. Patrick also discusses the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated sport, acknowledging the cultural biases she faced and her determination to prove herself. She reveals her entrepreneurial ventures, including her wine brand, Somnium, which she started in 2009, and her clothing line, Warrior. Patrick emphasizes her passion for cooking and her desire to explore new opportunities post-racing, including potentially hosting a cooking show. The discussion also delves into the societal pressures surrounding beauty and success, particularly for women, and the superficiality of social media fame. Patrick expresses her belief in the importance of authenticity and personal growth, encouraging others to pursue what truly makes them happy. As she prepares to leave racing, she reflects on the highs and lows of her career, the camaraderie and competition within the sport, and her hopes for the future. Patrick concludes by acknowledging the unique position she holds as a trailblazer for women in racing, while remaining focused on her personal journey and the next chapter of her life.

In this episode of The Drive, host Peter Attia interviews Apolo Ohno, an eight-time Olympic medalist in short-track speed skating. Attia shares his admiration for Ohno's discipline, work ethic, and unique upbringing, raised by a single father who played a crucial role in his success. Ohno recounts the intense rivalry he faced, particularly with South Korean athletes, and the backlash he received after a controversial race in 2002 that led to him being despised in South Korea. Ohno describes his training philosophy, emphasizing the importance of grit and determination. He draws parallels between his life and the character Rocky Balboa, highlighting the significance of resilience in the face of adversity. The conversation delves into Ohno's training routines, including his intense workouts and the mental challenges he faced throughout his career. Ohno reflects on the emotional weight of competing in the Olympics, particularly the pressure to perform and the sacrifices made along the way. He discusses the psychological aspects of being an athlete, including the fear of failure and the drive to prove oneself. The episode also touches on the transition from being an elite athlete to life after competition, including the challenges of finding purpose and identity outside of sports. As the conversation progresses, Ohno shares insights into his experiences at the Olympics, including his victories and defeats, and the impact of his upbringing on his mindset. He emphasizes the importance of learning from failures and the value of hard work, regardless of the outcome. The discussion concludes with Ohno expressing gratitude for his journey and the lessons learned, both in sports and in life.

In 2018, Allyson Felix, a professional athlete, trained in secret during her pregnancy due to fears about her career. She highlighted the stigma around pregnancy in sports, noting that many women face tough choices between motherhood and their careers. After advocating for better maternity policies, she found a supportive sponsor and became a symbol of change, emphasizing the need for a new normal that values women and parents in the workplace.

In this episode, Rich Roll welcomes Caroline Burckle, a 2012 Olympian and 23-time All-American swimmer. Their conversation delves into Caroline's journey, focusing on her experiences before, during, and after her Olympic career. They reminisce about their first meeting at a Mind Body Green event and discuss the importance of timing in personal growth. Caroline reflects on her struggles with identity post-Olympics, feeling both pride and shame about her achievements, and the pressure to conform to expectations surrounding her Olympic status. Caroline shares her early swimming experiences, emphasizing her natural talent but also her non-competitive approach to the sport. She describes how her upbringing in a strict environment influenced her feelings of worthiness and the pressure to please others. As she transitioned to college swimming at the University of Florida, she faced challenges with expectations and overtraining, leading to a decline in her performance and well-being. The conversation shifts to Caroline's Olympic experience, where she made the team but struggled with personal issues, including a difficult relationship. She expresses mixed emotions about her Olympic journey, recognizing it as a pivotal moment in her life but also a source of trauma. Caroline discusses the aftermath of her Olympic career, including her decision to step away from swimming and the challenges she faced in finding her identity outside of the sport. Caroline's narrative includes her experiences with mental health, trauma, and the importance of seeking help. She highlights her journey towards healing, which involved somatic experiencing therapy and confronting past traumas. The discussion emphasizes the significance of acknowledging and validating feelings, as well as the need for supportive environments in sports and beyond. As they explore the impact of her experiences on her current work with young athletes through Rise Athletes, Caroline emphasizes the importance of fostering a healthy relationship with sport and encouraging open communication about mental health. She shares her commitment to helping others navigate their own struggles and the importance of self-acceptance. The episode concludes with Caroline reflecting on her evolving relationship with fitness, focusing on joy rather than competition. She expresses gratitude for the lessons learned and the connections made throughout her journey, emphasizing the ongoing process of growth and self-discovery.

Camille Herron expresses her deep passion for running, feeling it's her calling. She aims to elevate the sport and inspire women to push their limits. With 21 marathon victories, including the Comrades Marathon, she has set multiple world records, such as the most miles run by a woman in 24 hours and the fastest 100-mile road race at 12 hours and 41 minutes. At 40, she continues to break barriers, recently beating all male competitors at the Jackpot 100. Camille's training philosophy combines her marathon background with ultra running, focusing on quality over quantity. She emphasizes the importance of strength training and nutrition, having adjusted her diet after discovering imbalances in her iron and magnesium levels. This focus on health has revitalized her performance, allowing her to recover quickly and maintain high mileage. Her upcoming goal is to compete in the Western States 100, where she plans to apply her strategy of pacing herself early in the race to gain strength later. Camille also discusses the narrowing gender gap in ultra running, noting that women are increasingly matching men's performances, particularly in endurance events. She attributes her success to a combination of hard work, joy in the sport, and a supportive environment, including her husband and coach, Conor Holt. Camille believes in giving back to the community, advocating for diversity in ultra running, and inspiring younger athletes. She encourages newcomers to embrace challenges, emphasizing that every athlete can push their limits with the right mindset and support. Her journey reflects a blend of personal determination, joy, and a commitment to redefining what is possible in athletics, especially for women as they age.

Chelsea Sodaro shares her journey into triathlon, motivated by a desire to explore her physical and mental limits. After transitioning from a successful running career, she became the first rookie to win the Ironman World Championship in Kona in 2022, just 18 months after giving birth. Despite her achievements, she faced unexpected mental health challenges post-victory, struggling with anxiety and the pressures of motherhood and competition. Sodaro emphasizes the importance of showing her daughter the value of pursuing dreams. She reflects on her rocky season following her Kona win, where she placed sixth but felt proud of her performance despite setbacks. Her internal motivation stems from a curiosity about her capabilities rather than external competition. She discusses the challenges of balancing motherhood and elite athletics, highlighting the lack of support for postpartum athletes in the healthcare system. After experiencing severe postpartum anxiety, she sought help and found a psychiatrist who diagnosed her with OCD, leading to a treatment plan that included medication. This journey of self-advocacy and mental health awareness has inspired her to be open about her struggles, aiming to empower others. Sodaro's platform has allowed her to advocate for equity in sports, particularly for female athletes, and she emphasizes the need for better maternity policies and support systems. She believes that the triathlon community should be more inclusive, providing resources like lactation stations and childcare at events. As she prepares for future competitions, including the World Championships in Nice, she acknowledges the importance of mental resilience and the evolving nature of her training. Her mantra, "Make the most important thing the most important thing," guides her in prioritizing family while pursuing her athletic goals. Sodaro remains committed to using her experiences to foster change in the sport and inspire other women, believing that personal fulfillment and ambition can coexist.

Dax Shepard welcomes Olympian Alexi Pappas to the podcast, where they discuss her experiences as a Greek American athlete, her journey to the Rio Olympics, and her new book "Bravery: Chasing Dreams, Befriending Pain, and Other Big Ideas." Alexi shares her background, including her time at Dartmouth and the University of Oregon, where she honed her running skills. She reflects on the pressures of pursuing Olympic dreams and the mental health challenges that followed her success, including post-Olympic depression. Alexi emphasizes the importance of understanding the mental aspects of long-distance running, noting that it requires a developed frontal lobe for delayed gratification. She discusses her upbringing, including the impact of her mother's mental health struggles and how that shaped her drive to succeed. The conversation touches on the societal expectations placed on athletes and the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly for those seen as high achievers. They explore the idea that accomplishments do not equate to happiness and the need for athletes to prepare for life after achieving their dreams. Alexi explains her decision to compete for Greece, breaking a national record in the 10K, and the unique experiences within the Olympic Village. The discussion also highlights the importance of mentorship and the value of seeking guidance from others. Ultimately, Alexi conveys that while the pursuit of dreams is vital, understanding one's mental health and allowing for vulnerability is equally important. The conversation concludes with reflections on identity, the pressures of public perception, and the need for athletes to embrace their multifaceted selves beyond their sports achievements.

In this episode, Rich Roll speaks with Kate Courtney, a world champion mountain biker, about her journey in the sport and her recent experiences, including a notable collaboration with Tom Cruise during the Paris Olympics. Courtney reflects on her grandfather's mantra, "Give him hell," which emphasizes commitment and giving everything in pursuit of one's goals. She discusses her rise to becoming the face of American mountain biking, her struggles with identity and performance, and the importance of separating self-worth from race results. Courtney shares her experience of handing off the Olympic torch to Tom Cruise, highlighting the surreal nature of the event and the joy she felt working alongside him. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity and joy in her career, inspired by Cruise's passion for his craft. As she navigates her athletic journey, she reflects on the shift from a focus on self-mastery to expressing her true self, integrating her identity with her sport. The conversation touches on the evolution of coaching and the significance of collaboration in her training. Courtney recounts her early experiences in mountain biking, her rapid rise in the sport, and the challenges she faced balancing academics at Stanford with her athletic ambitions. She discusses her Olympic aspirations and the emotional toll of not making the 2016 team, which fueled her determination to succeed in 2020. Courtney's career took a turn during the pandemic, where she faced the pressure of expectations and the uncertainty of competition. She emphasizes the importance of mindset and the need to detach from external validation, focusing instead on the joy of riding and the community aspect of the sport. This led her to establish the She Sends Foundation, aimed at inspiring young female riders and making mountain biking more accessible. As she prepares for the upcoming Olympics in LA, Courtney discusses her decision to create her own racing team, She Sends Racing, which reflects her values and mission. This new structure allows her to pursue her goals while giving back to the community. She highlights the importance of partnerships with brands that align with her vision, such as Allied and Rivian, and the excitement of building a mission-driven career. Courtney concludes by emphasizing the significance of giving back and the joy of pursuing one's passions. She encourages listeners to follow their curiosity and take risks in their pursuits, ultimately leading to a fulfilling and meaningful life.

In this episode, Rich Roll interviews two-time Olympian Kara Goucher, who shares her experiences with the Nike Oregon Project and coach Alberto Salazar. Goucher discusses her journey of writing her memoir, "The Longest Race," which reveals the abuse, doping, and manipulation she faced in elite sports. She emphasizes the importance of sharing her story to inspire change and confront the culture of fear within the running community. Goucher reflects on her initial excitement about joining Nike in 2001, describing it as a dream come true. However, she soon realized that the reality of the Oregon Project was far from the marketed image. She recounts her struggles with injuries, the pressure to perform, and the emotional toll of being part of a system that prioritized results over athlete well-being. Goucher highlights the need for athletes to trust their intuition and recognize when a situation is unhealthy, urging them to seek help if necessary. Throughout the conversation, Goucher discusses the complexities of her relationship with Salazar, who initially seemed supportive but later exhibited controlling and inappropriate behavior. She describes how the environment fostered a culture of fear and competition among athletes, leading to emotional and psychological distress. Goucher also addresses the issue of doping within the sport, sharing her observations of suspicious practices among teammates and the lack of accountability from powerful figures in the industry. The discussion touches on Goucher's personal challenges, including her struggles with self-belief and the impact of her experiences on her mental health. She emphasizes the importance of persistence and resilience in the face of setbacks, encouraging young athletes to embrace their journeys, which often involve failures and challenges. Goucher also reflects on her retirement from competitive running, describing the difficulties of transitioning to life after sport and the identity crisis many athletes face. She shares her ongoing love for running and her desire to inspire others through her advocacy for clean sport and athlete welfare. The episode concludes with Goucher discussing the current state of American women marathon runners, expressing optimism about the future and the potential for more podium finishes. She encourages athletes to remain focused on their goals while also recognizing the importance of mental health and support systems within the sport.