Episodes

  • Everyday Excellence with Brad Stulberg | EP44

    Everyday Excellence with Brad Stulberg | EP44
    May 6 2026
    Brad Stulberg’s journey is about redefining excellence for everyone, not just elite performers. In this episode, Rebecca and Brad dig into what it means to pursue sustainable success, why community and vulnerability matter, and how anyone can practice excellence in daily life. Drawing from his new book, The Way of Excellence, Brad shares science-backed insights and personal stories that illuminate how excellence is a daily practice rooted in groundedness, resilience, and authentic connection. Together, they explore the value of showing up fully, the courage it takes to thrive in a chaotic world, and how the pursuit of excellence can be accessible and meaningful for all.Show notes:In this episode, Rebecca and Brad discuss:Why excellence isn’t reserved for world champions and how everyday people can pursue their own version of greatnessThe difference between fleeting achievement and sustainable successBrad’s personal story: from academic to bestselling author, coach, and powerlifting enthusiastHow community, challenge, and vulnerability shape our growthThe science behind resilience, stress regulation, and fulfillmentLessons from coaching executives, athletes, and creatives on balance and burnoutThe core ideas from Brad’s new book, The Way of ExcellenceHow to thrive amid uncertainty using psychology, philosophy, and sports scienceThe importance of doing hard things—not for the outcome, but for the process and self-discoveryTransformative Insights:Excellence is a practice, not a destination—available to anyone willing to show upCommunity and shared struggle are essential for growth and belongingVulnerability is a strength, not a weakness, in both sport and lifeSustainable performance means honoring limits and building habits that lastVulnerable Moments:Brad shares how powerlifting, despite not being a pro athlete, gives him meaning, connection, and humilityHonest reflections on facing fears, letting go of perfection, and embracing the unknownRebecca and Brad discuss the challenges of identity shifts and finding purpose beyond titles or achievementsPractical Wisdom:How to approach excellence as a daily practice—grounded, intentional, and adaptableTools for building resilience and regulating stress in high-pressure environmentsThe role of mentorship, both giving and receiving, in personal and professional growthWhy slowing down and tuning into your own values leads to deeper fulfillmentPersonal Growth:Brad’s evolution from academic to thought leader, coach, and advocate for sustainable successRebecca’s ongoing journey to redefine achievement and embrace groundednessHow movement, nature, and reflection are tools for self-discovery and healingThe power of storytelling and honest conversation in building a meaningful lifeHelpful Links:Brad's Website & "The Way of Excellence" (book)Brad Stulberg on InstagramBrad Stulberg on LinkedInPodcast: Excellence, ActuallySupport 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!Subscribe and FollowRate, Review, and ShareGet Connected:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInSubstackBlood RoadBecome a Partner:Want to reach an engaged audience of leaders, athletes, creatives, and purpose-driven individuals? What’s the Rusch is where your brand can align with authentic conversations about performance, purpose, and personal growth. For sponsorship and media kit info, contact Aerah@RebeccaRusch.com.
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    1 hr
  • Presence over Noise with Boone Speed | EP43

    Presence over Noise with Boone Speed | EP43
    Apr 22 2026

    Boone Speed’s story is one of stripping away the noise to find what’s real. In this episode, Rebecca explores Boone’s evolution from pioneering American sport climber to creative force in photography and design. Together, they reflect on how movement, art, and community can help us shed what no longer serves us and discover a deeper sense of belonging, wherever we land.

    Show notes:

    In this episode, Rebecca and Boone discuss:

    1. The early days of American sport climbing and the Utah scene
    2. How creativity and craft shaped Boone’s approach to climbing and photography
    3. The importance of mentorship and community in pushing boundaries
    4. Why Boone chooses stillness and intentionality in a world that rewards speed
    5. Building culture inside brands and lessons learned from working with athletes and founders
    6. Navigating transitions—from the crag to the ocean, from athlete to creative advisor

    Transformative Insights:

    1. The value of tuning out external noise to hear your own truth
    2. How community and creativity can be anchors through change
    3. The power of staying “allergic to the status quo”
    4. Why choosing stillness is sometimes the boldest move

    Vulnerable Moments:

    1. Boone reflects on the risks and rewards of forging a new path in climbing
    2. Rebecca and Boone share stories of feeling like outsiders and finding belonging
    3. Honest talk about transitions—letting go of old identities to make space for new growth
    4. Boone opens up about the challenges of balancing art, adventure, and personal life

    Practical Wisdom:

    1. How to approach creative work as a practice, not a performance
    2. Tools for building authentic community in any field
    3. The importance of mentorship—both giving and receiving
    4. Why slowing down can lead to deeper connection and clarity

    Personal Growth:

    1. Boone’s evolution from athlete to creative advisor and mentor
    2. Rebecca’s ongoing journey to embrace stillness and let go of perfectionism
    3. How both guests use movement and nature as tools for self-discovery
    4. The role of vulnerability in building a meaningful life

    Helpful Links:

    1. Boone Speed Portfolio
    2. Boone Speed on Instagram
    3. Hence Creative

    Support What’s the Rusch

    If this episode moved you, please share it with someone, leave a review, send it to a training partner, or post your favorite takeaway on social media. All of these help us continue to bring you these inspiring conversations!

    Subscribe and Follow

    Rate, Review, and Share

    Get Connected:

    Website

    Instagram

    LinkedIn

    Substack

    Blood Road

    Become a Partner:

    Interested in reaching an engaged audience of leaders, athletes, creatives, and purpose-driven individuals? What’s the Rusch is the place to align your brand with authentic conversations about performance, purpose, and personal growth. For sponsorship inquiries and media kit information, please contact Aerah@RebeccaRusch.com.
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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Unraveling Identity and Endurance with Cynthia Carson | EP42

    Unraveling Identity and Endurance with Cynthia Carson | EP42
    Apr 8 2026
    Cynthia Carson’s journey is about discovering who you are beyond the results. In this episode, Rebecca and Cynthia dig into the realities of ultra-endurance cycling, the challenge of separating identity from outcome, and the courage it takes to show up as your full self, on and off the bike. The conversation is especially meaningful as Rebecca and Cynthia recently met at the finish line of the Atlas Mountain Race, where Cynthia took the women’s win. Together, they explore how adventure, storytelling, and community can help us find presence in the hardest moments and redefine what it means to succeed.Show notes:In this episode, Rebecca and Cynthia discuss:The evolution from racer to community builder and filmmakerWhy Cynthia chooses not to lead with her athletic achievements when introducing herselfThe struggle and liberation of separating self-worth from race resultsHow ultra-distance events create space for presence and reflectionThe making of “Two Steps Forward, One Step Back” and what Cynthia learned from two years of physical and emotional challengesThe importance of showing up authentically, regardless of outcomeLessons from organizing gravel races and fostering community in cyclingThe value of curiosity and humility in adventure and lifeTransformative Insights:Identity is more than a podium finish—results are just one piece of the storyPresence and self-reflection are found in the quiet, difficult milesCommunity and storytelling can be powerful tools for growth and connectionConfidence is built through consistent effort, not just external validationVulnerable Moments:Cynthia opens up about the pressure to define herself by results and the work it takes to move beyond thatHonest conversation about feeling “not enough” and learning to embrace the full spectrum of identityBoth guests share stories of meeting at the finish line and the mutual respect that comes from shared struggleCynthia reflects on the emotional journey behind her latest film and the lessons learned from setbacksPractical Wisdom:How to introduce yourself beyond your job or achievementsTools for building self-belief and showing up as your best selfThe importance of community in endurance sports and beyondWhy it’s essential to separate your worth from your wins and lossesPersonal Growth:Cynthia’s evolution from athlete to organizer, filmmaker, and mentorRebecca’s ongoing journey to find meaning and presence in adventureHow both use movement and storytelling as vehicles for self-discovery and connectionThe role of vulnerability and honesty in building a meaningful lifeHelpful Links:Cynthia’s Website: wattwagon.ccCynthia’s YouTube: @wattwagonCynthia’s Films: Two Steps Forward, One Step Back: Racing the Transcontinental After Everything Fell ApartCynthia’s Instagram: @watt_wagonSponsor:This episode is brought to you by Rebecca’s Private Idaho—an event that’s all about showing up as your full self, finding community in the wild, and discovering what you’re capable of beyond the finish line. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just want to ride with purpose, RPI is where adventure and connection meet. Join us in Sun Valley for an unforgettable experience on and off the bike. Registration is open now 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.Subscribe and FollowRate, Review, and ShareBecome 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.Connect with Rebecca:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInSubstackBlood Road
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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • Clarity Within: Vision and Healing with Dr. Bryce Appelbaum | EP41

    Clarity Within: Vision and Healing with Dr. Bryce Appelbaum | EP41
    Mar 25 2026
    Rebecca Rusch welcomes Dr. Bryce Appelbaum, a visionary in neuro-optometry and founder of MyVision First, Vision Performance Training, and ScreenFit. This episode unpacks how the way we see, literally and figuratively, shapes our sense of safety, healing, and performance. Dr. B’s journey began with his own childhood vision struggles, fueling a mission to help others retrain their visual brains after injury, overload, or simply the demands of modern life. Together, Rebecca and Dr. B explore the intersection of vision, resilience, and the courage to reimagine what’s possible when we address the root causes that limit our potential.In This Episode, Rebecca and Dr. B Explore:The difference between eyesight and true vision—and why it matters for performance, healing, and self-perceptionHow Dr. B’s personal experience with vision therapy transformed his life and purposeThe hidden impact of visual processing on confidence, learning, and movementWhy addressing the root cause—not just the symptoms—unlocks real growthThe shift from reactive to proactive vision care, and what it means for athletes, patients, and everyday humansHow our visual system is overloaded by modern screens and what we can do about itThe power of awareness, patience, and trust in the brain-body connectionTransformative InsightsVision is more than seeing clearly—it’s about how we interpret and interact with the worldHealing and high performance both start with understanding and retraining the visual brainOur sense of safety, confidence, and potential is deeply tied to how we see ourselves and our environmentThe brain’s plasticity means change is always possible, no matter your starting pointVulnerable MomentsDr. B shares how childhood struggles with vision shaped his identity and career pathRebecca reflects on her own concussion recovery and the wish to have found vision therapy soonerBoth discuss the emotional journey of moving from frustration and limitation to empowerment and purposePractical WisdomHow to recognize when vision—not just eyesight—may be holding you backSimple strategies to reduce screen overload and support healthy visual processingThe importance of seeking care that addresses the whole person, not just isolated symptomsBuilding trust in your body’s ability to adapt and healPersonal GrowthDr. B’s evolution from patient to practitioner, and his commitment to changing the paradigm of vision careRebecca’s ongoing journey to integrate new tools for healing and performanceThe ripple effect of sharing our stories—how one person’s breakthrough can inspire hope and action in othersHelpful LinksDr. Bryce Appelbaum’s Website: MyVision FirstScreenFit ProgramVision Performance TrainingDr. Bryce Appelbaum on InstagramDr. Bryce Appelbaum on LinkedInSponsorGet $200 off ScreenFit™ using code RUSCHTake 10% off selected MyVisionFirst shop products using code RUSCHConnect with Rebecca:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInSubstackBlood Road
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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Jay Petervary, Part 2: Listening to the Trail: Lessons from the ITI | EP40

    Jay Petervary, Part 2: Listening to the Trail: Lessons from the ITI | EP40
    Mar 11 2026

    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 1,000-mile finish, the mental and physical toll of pushing against nature, and the humility required to accept when the trail has other plans. Jay and Rebecca explore the tension between relentless drive and deep listening, the wisdom that comes from decades of endurance, and how letting go can sometimes be the bravest move of all.

    Key Topics:

    1. The reality of facing unpredictable conditions on the ITI and making the call to stop before the finish
    2. How Jay’s mindset has evolved after years of racing, and what it means to listen to the trail and your own limits
    3. The emotional aftermath of a race that doesn’t go as planned, and the lessons found in disappointment
    4. The ongoing process of recovery—physically, mentally, and emotionally—after high-stakes adventure
    5. The value of reflection, community, and honest storytelling in the wake of challenge

    Memorable Moments:

    1. Jay describes the moment he realized the ITI would not go as planned, and the internal dialogue that followed
    2. Reflections on the difference between “old Jay” and the wisdom that comes with experience
    3. Honest talk about the pressure to perform, the expectations we set for ourselves, and the courage it takes to walk away

    Reflection Questions:

    1. When have you had to change course, even when you were deeply committed to a goal?
    2. What does it look like to honor your limits without losing your drive?
    3. How do you process disappointment and find meaning in the aftermath?

    Resources & Links:

    1. Part 1: Ride Forward: The Art of Endurance
    2. Jay's website
    3. Jay's Instagram
    4. Fat Pursuit
    5. Iditarod Trail Invitational

    Connect with Rebecca:

    Website

    Instagram

    LinkedIn

    Substack

    Blood Road
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    47 mins
  • Ride Forward: The Art of Endurance with Jay Petervary | EP39

    Ride Forward: The Art of Endurance with Jay Petervary | EP39
    Mar 4 2026
    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 perfection.Show Notes:In this episode, Rebecca and Jay explore:The evolution from adventure racing to redefining ultra-endurance cyclingHow Jay’s “Ride Forward” philosophy shapes his approach to life, sport, and mentorshipThe role of adaptability and continuous learning in both racing and personal growthWhy building community and sharing knowledge matter more than medalsThe mental and emotional challenges of self-supported racing—and the lessons found in solitudeGear innovation: how tinkering and necessity led Jay to revolutionize bikepacking equipmentThe origins and spirit behind the Fat Pursuit and Gravel Pursuit eventsNavigating setbacks, uncertainty, and the unexpected with curiosity and graceTransformative Insights:The value of “perfect is good enough” in high-stakes environmentsHow letting go of rigid expectations opens space for discovery and joyThe importance of mentorship and inviting others into the wild unknownWhy the most meaningful achievements are often the ones shared with communityVulnerable Moments:Jay reflects on the discomfort of public recognition and the challenge of self-definitionRebecca and Jay discuss the tension between solitude and connection in endurance pursuitsHonest stories about failure, recalibration, and the courage to keep moving forwardPractical Wisdom:Approaching adversity as an opportunity for growth, not just a hurdle to overcomeSimple practices for staying grounded during long, uncertain journeysThe power of curiosity and play in sustaining motivationPersonal Growth:Jay’s ongoing journey to balance ambition with presenceRebecca’s reflections on learning from Jay’s mentorship and friendshipHow both have found meaning in letting go of what no longer serves themHelpful Links:Jay Petervary’s Website: https://www.jaypetervary.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay_petervary/Fat Pursuit: https://www.fatpursuit.com/Gravel Pursuit: https://www.gravelpursuit.com/Iditarod Trail Invitational Sponsor:Support What’s the RuschLove the show? Share it, review it, or text it to a friend who needs it.Connect with Rebecca:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInSubstackBlood Road
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Birthday Episode 3: Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Science - What’s the Rusch

    Birthday Episode 3: Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Science - What’s the Rusch
    Feb 25 2026

    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 used alongside modern data to push athletes beyond their limits. He reflects on the importance of learning, shifting expectations, and the untapped frontier of the mind.

    Florence Williams

    Florence discusses her research into awe, resilience, and the healing power of nature. She explains how ancient practices of noticing beauty and connecting to the natural world are now being validated by science—and why we need both the data and the reminders to seek out what our ancestors knew intuitively.

    Teddi Dean

    Teddi, a former pro skateboarder turned mindfulness teacher, explores how meditation and Buddhist philosophy help us build a relationship with our minds and bodies. He shares practical wisdom on sitting with discomfort, tuning into our emotions, and using heart-centered practices to transform daily life.

    Michael Gervais

    Michael, high-performance psychologist and host of Finding Mastery, reflects on the path from high performance to true mastery. He discusses how ancient insights and modern psychology both point us toward self-knowledge, purpose, and connection as the foundation for a meaningful life.

    Key Themes:

    1. The intersection of ancient wisdom and modern science in personal growth and performance
    2. Mindset, uncertainty, and the power of learning
    3. The healing and transformative potential of nature, awe, and mindfulness
    4. The importance of self-knowledge, purpose, and community

    Join the Conversation:

    How do you blend ancient wisdom and modern science in your own life? What practices or research have helped you grow? Share your thoughts with Rebecca on social or by leaving a review.

    Thank you for being part of this journey and for celebrating a year of meaningful conversations with us. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe to What’s the Rusch wherever you listen to podcasts.

    Click the links below to listen to the full episodes mentioned in today's podcast:

    1. Andy Walshe on the Future of Performance
    2. Florence Williams on Healing through Nature and Heartbreak
    3. Teddi Dean on Identity, Meditation, and Purposeful Pacing
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    30 mins
  • Birthday Episode 2: Redefining Success & Identity | EP37

    Birthday Episode 2: Redefining Success & Identity | EP37
    Feb 18 2026

    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, navigating reinvention, and learning to define success on her own terms. She shares how she’s found purpose beyond podiums by mentoring others and embracing new challenges.

    Kate Courtney

    Kate reflects on what it means to define success beyond the podium. She shares how she’s learned to measure achievement by effort and growth, not just results, and how her work with the She Sends Foundation is helping to expand opportunities and redefine what winning looks like for herself and the next generation.

    Allen Lim

    Allen shares how growing up as part of an immigrant family in Los Angeles shaped his sense of identity and belonging. He reflects on how the bicycle, the Olympic movement, and the power of community helped him redefine what success means—not just as winning, but as connection, dignity, and inspiring others.

    Alexandera Houchin

    Alexandera talks about how her identity has evolved and so has her sense of responsibility. She shares how her early drive to right past injustices and give voice to her family story has shifted toward embracing her own presence and authenticity, and creating space for others to do the same.

    Key Themes:

    1. Redefining what it means to succeed
    2. Letting go of old expectations and embracing new identities
    3. The power of community, mentorship, and giving back
    4. Finding purpose and meaning beyond traditional measures of achievement

    Join the Conversation:

    How has your definition of success changed? What does identity mean to you? Share your thoughts with Rebecca on social or by leaving a review.

    · Thank you for being part of this journey and for celebrating a year of meaningful conversations with us. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe to What’s the Rusch wherever you listen to podcasts.

    Connect with Rebecca:

    Website

    Instagram

    LinkedIn

    Substack

    Blood Road
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    24 mins