EP16: Climbing High, Standing Strong: Laura M Clark on Solo Hiking, 14ers, and Empowering Women Outdoors

EP16: Climbing High, Standing Strong: Laura M Clark on Solo Hiking, 14ers, and Empowering Women Outdoors

In this captivating episode, we sit down with mountaineer, solo hiker and the author of "Wild Wanderer: Soloing Colorado's 200 Highest Peaks" - Laura M Clark - as shetakes us on a journey through Colorado’s rugged peaks and her own path of self-discovery. Laura opens up about the transformative power of hiking, especially during life’s toughest moments, and what drives her to conquer the state’s legendary 14ers and 13ers.   With a passion for empowering women and young girls in the outdoors, Laura shares the lessons she's learned from hiking alone, the importance of preparation and safety, andhow writing about her experiences helps others navigate their own trails.   From breathtaking views to unexpected challenges, this episode is packed with inspiring stories and practical tips! ~~~~~Podcast Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals before attempting any physical activities, as the host and guests are not liable for any injuries or damages that may occur. Always prioritize safety and follow local regulations when engaging in any activities. Thank you for listening!

EP15: How Powerlifter Jennifer Thompson Balances World Titles & Life

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Jennifer Thompson, an 11-time IPF World Powerlifting Champion, as she opens up about her incredible journey into the world of powerlifting. Jen shares how she balances her intense training regimen with family life, offering a candid look at the challenges—and rewards—of being a top-level athlete while maintaining a personal life. Jen also shares her training technique and highlights the vital role of the community within powerlifting, discussing how support from like-minded individuals has been keyto her success. Jen discusses her upcoming projects, including a game-changing training app and educational initiatives designed to empower others in their fitness journeys. Throughout the conversation, Jen stresses the importance of enjoying the process, embracing one's strengths, and constantly pushing beyond one's self-imposed limits. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to get inspired, whether you're a powerlifting enthusiast or simply someone striving to pursue your passion with determinationand purpose! Chapters  00:29 Introduction and Background 01:48 Jen's Pick of Powerlifting Movement 02:37 Jen's Journey into Powerlifting 05:48 Balancing Family and Training 08:30 Incorporating Strength Training for Jen's kids 09:43 Jen's Training Techniques and Warm-Up Routines 12:41 Jen's Approach for the Best 3 Lifts 13:53 Adapting Training Over the Years 17:01 Jen's "secret" Training Method that She Always Sticks To 18:16 The Evolution of Powerlifting Sport 19:21 Future Projects and Community Engagement29:12 Jen's Training App Follow IG: @jenthompson132 | @hervthatlifts Greece trip with Jennifer Thompson (Oct 2025): https://trovatrip.com/trip//europe/greece/greece-with-jennifer-thompson-oct-2025 [https://trovatrip.com/trip/europe/greece/greece-with-jennifer-thompson-oct-2025] ~~~~~ Podcast Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to consult withprofessionals before attempting any physical activities, as the hosts and guests are not liable for any injuries or damages that may occur. Always prioritize safety and follow local regulations when engaging in any activities. Thank you for listening!

EP14: From Rugby to IFBB Pro: Inspiring Bodybuiling Journey with Daniella Means

Summary: Daniella Means ⁠ [https://www.hybridgymla.com/meet-the-team]is a powerhouse athlete whose journey defies simple labels. The Hong Kong-born, multicultural dynamo (with a Malaysian mother and American father) has lived a life of relentless athletic pursuit—from childhood ballet to gymnastics, then rugby, strongman, powerlifting, and finally, IFBB pro bodybuilding. Her achievements in the fitness world underscore hercommitment to excellence, both as a competitor and a leader in the health and fitness industry. In this raw conversation, Daniella pulls back the curtain on her competitive bodybuilding's "brutal" realities: 90-minute daily StairMaster sessions, practising posing, etc... Daniella also shares pivotal moments, like surviving a hammer attack weeks before a powerlifting meet, and offers hard-won advice for newcomers: "Do a photoshoot first—can you commit to six months of prep?"   Daniella is now a co-owner of ⁠Hybrid LA ⁠ [https://www.hybridgymla.com/]gym and she launches a YouTube channel "⁠Relentless⁠ [https://www.youtube.com/@relentlessonlinecoaching/videos]" with her husband. Chapters: 00:00 Intro of episode 01:33 Background of Daniella 02:13 Journey into Sports and Fitness 09:36 Transition to Bodybuilding and Achievements 14:46 Understanding Bodybuilding Categories 17:33 Judging Criteria in Bodybuilding 20:12 Posing Techniques 26:21 The Selfish Nature of the Sport 31:04 Dieting for Competition 31:54 Transitioning Back to Normal Life 36:22 Advice for Aspiring Bodybuilders 42:13 Current Projects, Youtube Channel and Online Coaching   Follow: Instagram: ⁠@DaniellaMeans⁠ [https://instagram.com/daniellameans] | @hervthatlifts Youtube: @Relentless | @hervthatlifts ~~~~~ Podcast Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals before attempting any physical activities, as the hosts and guests are not liable for any injuries or damages that may occur. Always prioritize safety and follow local regulations when engaging in any activities. Thank you for listening!

EP13: Diving into the World of Open Water Swimming with Edie Hu

Summary: Edie Hu [https://www.openwaterpedia.com/wiki/Edie_Hu], a fearless open-water swimmer who has conquered some of he world's most challenging waters, recounts her transition from competitive pool swimming to embracing open water after moving to Hong Kong. Initially hesitant, she gradually took on longer distances, completing notable swims like the 15-kilometer Maui Channel swim and becoming the first female to finish Hong Kong’s Cold Half. In this episode, I sat down with Edie to talk candidly about what it is like to be an open-water swimmer. Edie also emphasizes the importance of community support and encourages others to push past their limits and explore open water swimming. Edie recently completed the Rottnest Channel swim in Perth and the Cook Strait swim in New Zealand, part of the Ocean Seven challenge. She continues to challenge herself and prove that age is no barrier to adventures! Whether you are an athlete or simply someone seeking motivation, Edie's story will leave you in awe of the human spirit and the power of chasing our dreams. une in for a wave of inspiration! Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 02:00 - Edie's background and open water experiences 07:07 - Training and preparation 11:06 - Nutrition and body image 14:41 - Mental challenges and focusing while long distance swimming 18:25 - Funny and embarrassing moments 23:10 - Community and support 28:22 - Overcoming fear and advice for new swimmers 31 :00 - Age is no barrier 32:40 - How to support Edie and join her swims Takeaways: - Edie transitioned from pool swimming to open water swimming after moving to Hong Kong, finding a new passion in the open water community. - Her first significant open water swim was the 15-kilometer Maui Channel swim with her brother, which marked the beginning of her long-distance swimming adventures. - Edie became the first female to complete the Cold Half, a 15-kilometer swim in cold water temperatures (15-18°C), and later completed a double Cold Half. - Initially, Edie avoided structured training but later joined Swim Lab in Hong Kong, incorporating pool training and cold water swims to prepare for long-distance events. - Open water swimming requires mental focus and presence, with Edie using her swims as a form of meditation, though her mind occasionally wanders to daily tasks. - Edie highlights the importance of community in open water swimming, with friends and fellow swimmers providing crucial support during long swims. - Edie encourages new open water swimmers to push past their fears, especially of the unknown in the ocean, and to explore beyond the confines of pools or shark nets. - Edie emphasizes that age is not a limit to achieving long-distance swimming goals, with many swimmers in their 50s and 60s completing major swims. Follow: @Edieswimshongkong SOUTHSIDE SWIMMING HONG KONG (Open Water Swimmer’s Group Of Hong Kong) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/southsideswimminghongkong/] @hervthatlifts ~~~~~Podcast Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals before attempting any physical activities, including open-water swimming, as the hosts and guests are not liable for any injuries or damages that may occur. Always prioritize safety and follow local regulations when engaging in outdoor activities. Thank you for listening!

EP12: Gi, Grit & Growth: Jude Samuel's Blueprint for Lifelong Learning

Summary: In this engaging conversation, we sat down with Jude Samuel, one of the most experienced and respected names in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and head coach at Inglorious Grapplers in London. He has been teaching for over 20 years, and his accomplishments include being the first British Black Belt appointed by Mauricio Gomes, a pioneering figure in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Jude shares insights into his multifaceted life beyond martial arts. He discusses his journey into Jiu-Jitsu, his coaching career, resilience in the face of challenges, the role of music in his life, and more. Jude emphasizes the significance of continuous learning and adapting coaching styles to meet the needs of different students, while also reflecting on personal growth through martial arts and creative pursuits. Jude further discusses the importance of addressing insecurities within the Jiu-Jitsu community, the evolution of techniques in the discipline, and the significance of continuous learning and personal growth. He emphasizes the need for a supportive culture in training environments and the potential for Jiu-Jitsu academies to reach a broader client base by improving facilities and community engagement. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Jude Samuel 06:40 The Journey into Jiu-Jitsu 11:55 The Art of Coaching 13:38 Giving Up? 14:00 Resilience in Martial Arts 19:10 Deficit Training and Coaching Style 20:35 The Role of Music in Life 23:50 Hardest Lesson Learned 25:29 Insecurities in the Martial-arts Community 33:15 Evolution or Old-school Techniques in Jiu-Jitsu? 38:40 Advice for White Belt Jude 41:58 Connect with Jude & Inglorious Grapplers 43:00 Words for Martial-arts Academies Takeaways: * Jiu Jitsu is a tool for personal growth. * Continuous learning is essential for improvement. * Coaching requires understanding individual needs. * Resilience is key in martial arts and life. * Deficit training can enhance skill development. * Music plays a vital role in Jude's life. * The journey in Jiu-Jitsu is interconnected with other passions. * Coaching is about more than just techniques. * Embracing discomfort leads to meaningful growth. * Alone time is crucial for self-reflection. Insecurities can hinder personal growth and community development. * Creating a welcoming environment is essential for Jiu-Jitsu academies. * Continuous learning is vital for both instructors and students. * The evolution of techniques is necessary for the growth of Jiu-Jitsu. * Old school vs. new school debates should focus on mutual respect and learning. * Building a strong community can enhance the training experience. * Jiu-Jitsu should aim for mainstream acceptance through improved facilities. * Personal growth in martial arts is a lifelong journey. Follow: IG @judesamuel_ / @ingloriousgrapplers IG @hervthatlifts ***** Don't forget to give us a positive rating and follow our show! DISCLAIMER: Please note that this podcast and related content are solely for general information and entertainment purposes only. The use of this podcast information is at the user's own risk. Please seek professional advice if necessary.