What's The Rusch

This is Part 2 of Rebecca’s conversation with Jay Petervary, recorded just days after his 13th attempt at the Iditarod Trail Invitational (ITI) in Alaska. If you haven’t listened to Part 1: Ride Forward: The Art of Endurance, go back and catch the pregame episode for the full story and context. In this follow-up, Jay is fresh off the trail, still in Alaska, reflecting on what it means to show up for a race with big goals only to have the weather and trail conditions force a different outcome. He shares honestly about the decision to stop short of the...

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch welcomes ultra-endurance cycling legend Jay Petervary for a conversation that moves far beyond finish lines and records. Jay, known for pioneering bikepacking, setting iconic records on the Tour Divide and Iditarod Trail Invitational, and founding events like Fat Pursuit, opens up about the deeper motivations that drive his journey. Together, Rebecca and Jay explore the art of embracing uncertainty, the quiet power of simplicity, and the importance of community in endurance sports. Jay’s story is a testament to resilience, mentorship, and the freedom found in letting go of perf...

In the final episode of our birthday series, Rebecca Rusch explores how timeless wisdom and cutting-edge science come together to help us grow, heal, and perform at our best. Through conversations with world-class thinkers, athletes, and teachers, this episode dives into the practices, mindsets, and research that bridge the old and the new—reminding us that the most powerful tools for transformation are often found where tradition and innovation meet.

Featured Guests & Clips:

Andy Walshe

Andy shares stories from the world of elite performance, describing how uncertainty, mindset, and ancient selection rituals are us...

In this second episode of our special birthday series, Rebecca Rusch explores the theme of redefining success and identity. Over the past year, What’s the Rusch has become a space for honest conversations about what it means to grow, change, and find purpose beyond the finish line. This episode features stories from athletes and leaders who have reimagined what achievement looks like, let go of old expectations, and found new meaning in their journeys.

Featured Guests & Clips:

Caroline Buchanan

Caroline opens up about building her identity both on and off the bike, na...

Episode Summary:

To celebrate one year of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch brings together some of the most honest and courageous moments from the past year. This special episode is all about embracing vulnerability, slowing down, letting go, and sharing the real stories behind the highlight reels. Rebecca introduces and reflects on powerful clips from four guests who have opened up about their struggles, growth, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

Featured Guests & Clips:

Stacy Sims

Stacy shares her experience of moving to New Zealand, facing postpartum depr...

Episode Summary

In this episode, Rebecca welcomes Dr. Jaimie Lusk, a Marine Corps veteran, clinical psychologist, and endurance athlete, whose life’s work bridges the worlds of trauma recovery, adventure, and community healing. Their conversation moves beyond the surface of resilience, exploring what it means to truly thrive after survival. Together, they unpack the messy, beautiful process of listening to your inner wisdom, honoring the body’s need for rest, and finding clarity through movement and nature. This episode is a deep dive into the art of staying open, even after life cracks you wide open, and the...

Kaya Turski’s story isn’t just about medals or firsts, it’s about what happens when the thing you love most gets taken away, and you’re forced to meet yourself without the helmet, goggles, and identity that once felt impenetrable. Kaya shares how pain shaped her from the very beginning, starting with a catastrophic crash at 18 that led to emergency pancreatic surgery, and how a lifetime of impact, whiplash, and chronic symptoms eventually pushed her out of competition before 2018, whether she was ready or not.

In this conversation, we explore what “Fly Always” really means when you can...

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca welcomes explorer-author Craig Childs, a man whose life is spent listening deeply to the land. Known for tracing ancient migration routes, following water across vast deserts, flying through curtains of Virga, and biking into the darkest sky in America, Craig’s work reveals a world still full of mystery for those willing to pay attention.

This conversation moves through ghost-lit writing rooms, ritual landscapes, long bike journeys, serendipity, and the internal shifts that only happen when we slow down enough to let the world permeate us. Together Craig and...

In this episode, Rebecca welcomes her friend, author, and legendary peak-performance researcher Steven Kotler for a conversation that weaves together science, sport, creativity, and the deeper human quest for what’s possible. Steven has spent decades decoding flow, the neurobiological state where we feel our best and perform our best, but this conversation goes far beyond definitions.

Together, Rebecca and Steven explore why flow is accessible to everyone, what happens when you chase it too hard, and why recovery is a form of grit. Steven also opens up about the period of his life when Lyme disease le...

This conversation with Cam Wurf is a deep dive into the mindset, curiosity, and longevity of one of the most relentlessly adaptable athletes on the planet. Instead of simply talking results, Cam opens the door to the many evolutions of his career,  from Olympic rowing to WorldTour cycling to Ironman racing,  and the mindset that’s allowed him to thrive for decades. What emerges is a portrait of someone who never stops learning, never stops playing, and never stops believing there’s always another layer to uncover.

We explore how setbacks nudged him toward new paths, why versat...

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca dives into the deep currents of creativity, purpose, and healing with legendary kayaker, filmmaker, and musician Rush Sturges. From first descents on the world’s most powerful rivers to producing award-winning films like The River Runner (on Netflix), Chasing Niagara, and Edge of the Unknown (on Disney+), Rush has lived his life on the edge of adventure and artistry. Together, he and Rebecca explore how nature, trauma, and creativity intertwine—and how slowing down can be the most radical act of all.

Rush shares his journey from world champi...

In this illuminating conversation, Rebecca reconnects with one of her most influential mentors and longtime collaborators, Dr. Andy Walshe — a pioneering performance scientist, surfer, father, and Chief Performance Officer at Liminal Collective. Known for his groundbreaking work with Red Bull, the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team, and elite performers across sport, military, art, and business, Andy has spent his career studying what drives human potential. Together, Rebecca and Andy explore how true performance isn’t about doing more — it’s about understanding ourselves more deeply.

They dive into the paradox of progress, the intersection of technology and humanity...

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch digs into the science—and soul—of exploration with journalist and bestselling author Alex Hutchinson. Known for his books Endure and The Explorer’s Gene, Alex unpacks why we’re wired to seek challenges, how curiosity fuels growth, and why doing hard things often leads to the most meaningful moments in life. Together, Rebecca and Alex dive into the psychology of pushing limits, rediscovering play, and finding purpose in both stillness and motion.

Show Notes

In this episode, Rebecca and Alex discuss:

Rebecca Rusch connects with two-time Olympian and eight-time world champion Caroline Buchanan for a powerful conversation about reinvention, resilience, and redefining success. From near-death recovery to landing the first-ever women’s front flip in competition, Caroline has pushed boundaries in every direction—but it was slowing down that gave her the strength to level up. Together, she and Rebecca explore what it takes to rebuild after loss, lead with authenticity, and find purpose beyond performance.

Show Notes:

In this episode, Rebecca and Caroline explore:

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca sits down with one of climbing’s most accomplished couples—Emily Harrington and Adrian Ballinger. From free climbing El Capitan in a single day to summiting Everest without supplemental oxygen, they’ve each carved their own legendary paths. But beyond the bold headlines, Emily and Adrian open up about what it really takes to balance risk, ambition, partnership, and personal growth at the highest level.

Together, they share the stories behind their biggest climbs, the challenges of sustaining both a relationship and two elite careers, and the deep lessons...

In this deeply personal episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca reconnects with longtime teammate and multi-time world champion Anneke Beerten. From her BMX beginnings in the Netherlands to dominating Crankworx and Enduro World Series events, Anneke has done it all on two wheels. But her greatest test came off the course—when a traumatic brain injury abruptly ended her career.

Rebecca and Anneke dive into what it means to rewrite your story after the finish line, how to navigate the invisible injuries, and the power of staying in the sport—just in a different role. Now a coac...

In this powerful episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca welcomes Lauren Fleshman—former professional runner, coach, author of the bestselling book Good for a Girl, and one of the most influential voices in women’s sport. Together, they explore what it means to push boundaries, to question the systems we inherit, and to carve new pathways for ourselves and for future generations. From racing at the highest levels to advocating for equity in athletics, Lauren’s journey is as much about courage and vulnerability as it is about speed.

This conversation dives into the deep lessons that com...

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch and freeskiing icon Michelle Parker explore what happens when your identity is deeply tied to performance—and what it takes to unravel that. From the peaks of big mountain skiing to the quiet rebuilding after injury, Michelle has redefined what success looks like in a world that often demands constant output.

They dive into the power of friendship, the necessity of slowing down, and the ways fear can both guide and free us. Michelle shares how she’s evolved beyond athlete into filmmaker, advocate, and student of hersel...

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch is joined by mountain biking phenom and SheSends founder Kate Courtney for an honest, high-vibration conversation about racing, reinvention, and rising to your own standard of success. From being the only girl on her high school team to becoming a world champion and Olympic athlete, Kate has reshaped what it means to lead with values—not just victories. Now, she’s charting a bold new course in her career: founding her own team, launching a foundation, and redefining what success means from the inside out.

This conversation explor...

In this heartfelt and illuminating episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebeccas has the JOY of talking with her friend, Mirna Valerio—known to many as The Mirnavator. Mirna is an ultra-runner, writer, skier, poet, educator, and unapologetic force of joy. Together, they trace Mirna’s journey from a Brooklyn childhood to discovering mountains and ultimately reshaping what outdoor adventure looks and feels like.

Through stories of summer camp, teaching, motherhood, poetry, and being a plus-size Black woman in spaces not designed for her, Mirna reveals the power of choosing yourself, again and again. This is a conver...

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch shares an expansive and grounding conversation with former professional skateboarder turned artist/mindfulness teacher, Teddi Dean. From a countercultural childhood in 1970s Huntington Beach to riding for the legendary Bones Brigade and eventually embracing Buddhist vows, Teddi’s path is a journey of reinvention and self-discovery. Together, Rebecca and Teddi unpack what it means to pause, to look inward, and to reclaim your identity—beyond titles, accolades, or roles.

This episode explores the transformation that happens when we stop running and start listening. Through personal stories, Buddhist wisdom...

In this raw and fearless episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch is joined by legendary snowboarder, filmmaker, and community builder Jess Kimura. Known for her gritty street style and fearless progression, Jess has redefined women’s snowboarding—both on the board and behind the scenes. Together, Jess and Rebecca unpack everything from trauma and transformation to head injuries, grief, imposter syndrome, and the pressure to succeed in male-dominated spaces.

What emerges is a conversation about healing, identity, and purpose—one where Jess reminds us that being “the uninvited” is sometimes what it takes to change the game.

In this rich and wide-ranging episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch welcomes beach volleyball legend, author, entrepreneur, and wellness icon Gabby Reece. Known for her powerhouse presence on and off the court, Gabby joins Rebecca for a real and reflective conversation on what it means to live a full-contact life—with strength, clarity, and compassion.

Together, they explore the transitions that come with aging, identity, motherhood, and purpose, as Gabby shares how she continues to evolve from athlete to leader, from competitor to creator. They talk about the need for structure and stillness, learning to surr...

This week on What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch shares space with ultra-endurance cyclist, storyteller, and Indigenous athlete Alexandera Houchin for a deeply honest and resonant conversation. A citizen of the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Ojibwe, Alexandera is rewriting what it means to be a modern Native woman, professional athlete, and cultural steward—on her terms.

Alexandera lives in northern Minnesota—on the land her ancestors lived on– where she now trains for some of the world’s toughest bikepacking races. Alexandera shares her journey from disconnection to deep cultural reconnection. What began as a tool for...

This special episode of What’s the Rusch, comes to you live from the main Ideas stage at Outside Festival. Rebecca Rusch shares the stage with friend and pioneering mountaineer Melissa Arnot Reid. As the first American woman to summit and descend Mount Everest without supplemental oxygen, Melissa is no stranger to pushing boundaries. But this conversation goes far deeper than altitude.

Together, they unpack the themes of Melissa’s new memoir, Enough—a raw, reflective look at her life beyond the summits. More than a climbing story, the book (and this episode) explores what it means to con...

This powerful in-person episode of What’s the Rusch was recorded live at the Outside Festival in Denver, where Rebecca Rusch is joined by legendary swimmer, author, and speaker Diana Nyad. Famous for her record-breaking swim from Cuba to Florida at age 64—after four failed attempts and 35 years of persistence—Diana shares more than a story of grit. She opens up about resilience, reinvention, the importance of awe, and what it really means to live a life without regrets.

From pushing physical limits to rewriting what’s possible at any age, this conversation dives deep into the psycholo...

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch shares an intimate and inspiring conversation with Dr. Hebah Hefzy—a neurologist, mother of three, first-generation Egyptian American, and the first Muslim woman to complete the Western States 100 in hijab. A true trailblazer, Hebah's story is about far more than sport. It’s about rewriting the narrative, being a visual representation, and living with confidence and comfort in her identity.

Together, Rebecca and Hebah explore the intersections of identity, faith, visibility, and wellness. From struggling to run a single mile during her medical residency to finishing one of the...

In this vibrant episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch welcomes artist, writer, cyclist, and creative trailblazer Lisa Congdon. Known for her bold use of color and voice as an artist and activist, Lisa didn’t start her art career until nearly 40—proving that it's never too late to uncover your calling. In this candid conversation, Lisa and Rebecca explore what it means to build a life you love from scratch, why imperfection is essential to creativity, and how movement and meaning are inextricably linked.

Lisa opens up about the vulnerability of starting over, navigating self-doubt, and th...

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca reconnects with longtime friend and fellow endurance athlete Travis Macy. Known for his career in ultra-endurance racing, bestselling books (The Ultra Mindset and A Mile at a Time), and coaching, Travis brings a powerful story of transformation shaped by sport, fatherhood, concussion recovery, and caring for a parent with Alzheimer's.

Together, Rebecca and Travis reflect on two decades of friendship, racing, and the evolving meaning of success. They explore how legacy, grief, and deep love fuel purpose—how presence, not podiums, can be the true marker of achievement. Trav...

In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch connects with her longtime friend, world-renowned photographer and filmmaker Corey Rich. Known for hanging off cliffs with a camera in one hand and a story in the other, Corey reflects on a life built around capturing raw, authentic moments—in sport, in nature, and in the human spirit.

Their conversation is a journey through decades of friendship and creative partnerships from adventure races in the jungles of Borneo to documenting Rebecca’s earliest endurance cycling records. But it’s also a reflection on how we build something that las...

In this deeply insightful episode of What's the Rusch, host Rebecca Rusch sits down with Dr. Allen Lim, renowned sports scientist, entrepreneur, coach, and founder of Skratch Labs. Allen’s journey from a young, curious cyclist to one of the most influential figures in human performance is a testament to the power of curiosity, connection, and care. Through a raw and heartfelt conversation, Allen and Rebecca explore the intersection of science and emotion, performance and play, and the relentless pursuit of meaning in sport and life.

Dr. Allen Lim’s journey is one of contrasts; balancing external vali...

In this heartfelt episode of What’s the Rusch, host Rebecca Rusch sits down with Maureen Kolenyo, Regional Director of East Africa for World Bicycle Relief, transformational leader, and mother of five. Maureen shares her incredible journey from corporate powerhouse to purpose-driven changemaker, revealing how a simple bicycle can unlock safety, education, and opportunity for girls across Africa.

Together, Maureen and Rebecca explore the deep inequities in education access, the overlooked power of community-based solutions, and what it really means to redefine success later in life. From navigating male-dominated boardrooms to rising before dawn to prioritize wellness, Ma...

In this deeply introspective episode of What's the Rusch, host Rebecca Rusch sits down with world-renowned photographer, explorer, and endurance athlete, Chris Burkard. Known for capturing some of the most remote and untamed places on Earth, Chris reveals the deeper motivations behind his relentless pursuit of adventure.

Chris shares his journey from being a self-taught photographer living out of his car to becoming a globally recognized storyteller. But beyond the accolades, he opens up about the emotional and personal costs of chasing the extreme—from burnout to the challenges of balancing ambition with family life.

Th...

In this deeply insightful episode of What’s the Rusch, host Rebecca Rusch sits down with acclaimed science writer and nature advocate Florence Williams. Known for her groundbreaking books The Nature Fix and Heartbreak: A Personal and Scientific Journey, Florence explores the profound ways that nature heals both the body and mind.

Florence opens up about her personal journey of heartbreak following the end of her 25-year marriage and how she turned to science, self-experimentation, and nature to navigate grief, trauma, and transformation. She and Rebecca dive into the neuroscience of emotional pain, the healing power of aw...

In this episode of What's the Rusch, host Rebecca Rusch sits down with Haley Batten, a world-class mountain biker and Olympic silver medalist, to explore the delicate balance between competition, joy, and resilience. Haley shares her journey from a teenage prodigy in mountain biking to navigating the highest levels of the sport while facing personal challenges, including multiple concussions that tested her patience, mindset, and ability to slow down. Together, Rebecca and Haley dive into the importance of community, the evolving culture of women’s sports, and how adversity can lead to unexpected personal growth.

Haley’s stor...

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 he...

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 Ev...

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

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 - Ea...

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: