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What's The Rusch

What's The Rusch

Written by: Rebecca Rusch
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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.Copyright 2026 Rebecca Rusch Alternative & Complementary Medicine Hygiene & Healthy Living Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Self-Help Success
Episodes
  • Gravel, Grit, and Growth: Paige Onweller’s Ride to Resilience | EP47

    Gravel, Grit, and Growth: Paige Onweller’s Ride to Resilience | EP47
    Jun 17 2026

    Paige Onweller’s journey proves that it’s never too late to chase big dreams or reinvent yourself. In this episode, Rebecca and Paige dive into the realities of starting over, the power of community, and how setbacks can become springboards for transformation. From the ER to the elite gravel scene, Paige shares her story of hard work, healing, and using her platform to lift others up, especially women in cycling.

    Rebecca & Paige Discuss:

    1. Jumping into cycling in her 30s after a career in emergency medicine
    2. How a “work hard to survive” mindset shaped her approach to sport
    3. Navigating recovery and trauma therapy after a major crash
    4. The role of sponsors and community in supporting her comeback
    5. Discovering new mental strengths through adversity
    6. Launching the Rosie Up Initiative to empower women in gravel racing
    7. Balancing ambition with self-compassion and honest reflection
    8. The importance of representation and advocacy in sport
    9. Recent highlights: Unbound Gravel podium, Lifetime Grand Prix success

    Transformative Insights

    1. Setbacks can unlock unexpected strengths and new directions
    2. Community support is essential for resilience and recovery
    3. Starting late can be a superpower, bringing fresh perspective
    4. Advocacy and visibility create pathways for others
    5. Growth is found in both vulnerability and determination

    Vulnerable Moments

    1. Paige’s candid account of trauma therapy and identity shifts
    2. The pressure to return to racing—and the courage to heal first
    3. Admitting the ongoing impact of injury and mental health challenges
    4. Sharing the realities of being a woman in a male-dominated sport

    Practical Wisdom

    1. How to turn adversity into opportunity
    2. Building a support network and asking for help
    3. Balancing high achievement with self-care
    4. Encouragement for women and late bloomers to pursue their goals

    Personal Growth

    1. Paige’s evolution from ER professional to gravel champion and advocate
    2. Rebecca’s reflections on the value of unconventional journeys
    3. The power of storytelling to break barriers and build community
    4. Both guests’ dedication to using their voices for positive change

    Links & Resources

    1. Paige Onweller: Instagram | Website
    2. The White Line Project: thewhiteline.org

    Sponsor

    This episode is brought to you by Rebecca’s Private Idaho where adventure, community, and purpose come together in the wild. Join us in Sun Valley for a ride that’s about more than the miles: it’s about showing up for yourself, your community, and the planet. Registration is open at rebeccasprivateidaho.com.

    Support What’s the Rusch

    If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, leave a review, or post your favorite insight on social media. Your support helps us keep bringing you these honest, inspiring conversations.

    Subscribe and Follow

    Rate, Review, and Share

    Get Connected:

    Website

    Instagram

    LinkedIn

    Substack

    Blood Road

    Become a Partner:

    Interested in aligning your brand with authentic conversations about performance, purpose, and growth? Contact Aerah@RebeccaRusch.com for sponsorship opportunities and our media kit.
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 22 mins
  • Queen of Pain to Queen of Presence with Amelia Boone | EP46

    Queen of Pain to Queen of Presence with Amelia Boone | EP46
    Jun 3 2026

    Amelia Boone’s journey is about moving beyond the myth of toughness to embrace honesty, presence, and real resilience. In this episode, Rebecca and Amelia dig into what happens when the “Queen of Pain” identity no longer fits, and how facing struggle head-on can lead to deeper growth. Together, they talk about the realities of mental health, the courage to be vulnerable, and the ongoing work of aligning who you are on the inside with what the world sees.

    Rebecca & Amelia Discuss:
    1. The origins and impact of the “Queen of Pain” nickname
    2. Navigating eating disorders and OCD as an elite athlete
    3. The pressure to appear tough versus the reality of emotional struggle
    4. The process and risk of going public with mental health challenges
    5. Balancing a demanding legal career with high-level competition
    6. Redefining resilience and toughness in sport and life
    7. Using her platform to advocate for mental health and authenticity
    8. The shift from achievement-driven identity to living with greater presence

    Transformative Insights
    1. True resilience is about honesty and emotional openness, not just endurance
    2. Letting go of old identities can create space for real growth
    3. Aligning your inner and outer worlds is a powerful act of self-respect
    4. Vulnerability can be a source of strength and connection

    Vulnerable Moments
    1. Amelia’s decision to share her eating disorder and OCD publicly
    2. The fear of judgment and the relief of finally being honest
    3. Admitting that toughness isn’t about hiding emotion, but embracing it
    4. The ongoing challenge of recovery and self-acceptance

    Practical Wisdom
    1. How to recognize when an identity no longer serves you
    2. Tools for navigating recovery and building new routines
    3. The importance of community and honest conversation in healing
    4. Why presence matters more than performance

    Personal Growth
    1. Amelia’s evolution from world champion to advocate for mental health
    2. Rebecca’s reflections on the value of showing up as your real self
    3. The role of storytelling and open dialogue in breaking stigma
    4. Both guests’ commitment to using their platforms for collective good

    Links & Resources
    1. Amelia Boone: Instagram
    2. Eating Disorder Recovery: NEDA

    Sponsor

    This episode is brought to you by Rebecca’s Private Idaho where adventure, community, and purpose come together in the wild. Join us in Sun Valley for a ride that’s about more than the miles: it’s about showing up for yourself, your community, and the planet. Registration is open at rebeccasprivateidaho.com.

    Get Connected:

    Website

    Instagram

    LinkedIn

    Substack

    Blood Road

    Become a Partner:

    Interested in aligning your brand with authentic conversations about performance, purpose, and growth? Contact Aerah@RebeccaRusch.com for sponsorship opportunities and our media kit.
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 9 mins
  • Wild Purpose and Everyday Awe with Erin Sprague | EP45

    Wild Purpose and Everyday Awe with Erin Sprague | EP45
    May 20 2026
    Erin Sprague’s story is about transforming personal adventure into collective impact. In this episode, Rebecca and Erin explore what it means to lead with purpose in the outdoor industry, the lessons learned from endurance challenges, and the importance of showing up for the causes and communities you care about—even when the path isn’t clear. Together, they discuss how small moments of awe, resilience in leadership, and a deep connection to wild places can shape a meaningful life.In this episode, Rebecca and Erin discuss:Erin’s evolution from Adirondack athlete to CEO of Protect Our Winters (POW)How running, skiing, and biking shaped her identity and leadership styleThe drive to turn personal passion for the outdoors into climate advocacy and community actionNavigating uphill challenges as a woman in sports and businessThe power of small, everyday moments—like a walk outside or birdsong—for resilience and presenceWhy showing up for your values matters, even when the outcome is uncertainBuilding community and collective action through POW and industry partnershipsLessons from epic adventures and why the “unlock” in life might be found in simplicityThe importance of getting outside, even for just 10 minutes, to reset and rechargeTransformative Insights:Leadership is about showing up for your values, not just your resumeSmall moments of awe can be as transformative as big, bold adventuresCommunity and collective action are essential for meaningful changeResilience is built through both epic challenges and everyday presenceVulnerable Moments:Erin shares the realities of leading in the climate space when the path isn’t always clearHonest reflections on balancing ambition, family, and advocacyStories of setbacks, uncertainty, and the courage to keep showing upThe emotional impact of connecting with nature and community in difficult timesPractical Wisdom:How to find meaning in both big achievements and small daily ritualsTools for building resilience through movement and mindfulnessThe value of community in advocacy, sport, and personal growthWhy it’s important to take action, even if it’s just a few minutes outsidePersonal Growth:Erin’s journey from athlete to advocate, executive, and mentorRebecca’s reflections on presence, purpose, and the power of wild placesHow both use adventure and storytelling to inspire change and connectionThe role of honesty and vulnerability in building a purposeful lifeHelpful Links:Protect Our Winters: protectourwinters.orgPOW Films: “The Hypocrite” featuring Amy EngelbretsonErin’s LinkedIn: Erin SpragueInstagram: @erin_spragueSponsor:This episode is brought to you by Rebecca’s Private Idaho—where adventure, community, and purpose come together in the wild. Join us in Sun Valley for a ride that’s about more than the miles: it’s about showing up for yourself, your community, and the planet. Registration is open at rebeccasprivateidaho.com.Support What’s the RuschIf this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, leave a review, or post your favorite insight on social media. Your support helps us keep bringing you these honest, inspiring conversations.Get Connected:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInSubstackBlood RoadBecome a Partner:Interested in aligning your brand with authentic conversations about performance, purpose, and growth? Contact Aerah@RebeccaRusch.com for sponsorship opportunities and our media kit.
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 2 mins
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