Lindsay Shepard: Van Life, Ultra Racing & Redefining Adventure #45
✨ Support the Podcast ✨Shoutout to our new channel member Wendall Brown!Today’s guest is a seasoned vanlifer, through hiker, and bikepacker who shares her journey from van life and sailing dreams to conquering some of the toughest endurance events. We dive into life on the road, how Starlink enables remote work and race coverage, and the evolution of ultra-distance running events like Cocodona and the Arizona Monster 300. Lindsay opens up about the realities of gender identity in the endurance community and how that intersects with racing, community, and representation.We also reflect on the Stagecoach Line 200 Duathlon — a rugged self-supported challenge from Flagstaff to Tusayan by bike, then back again on foot — and how it reshaped both our views on goal-setting, recovery, and what makes these adventures meaningful. Expect insights on resilience, problem-solving, gear choices, logistics, and the personal evolution that comes with pushing long distances. I'd like to welcome to the podcast Lindsay Shepard.----------------https://www.instagram.com/carefreewanderings/----------------This episode is brought to you by:Squirrel's Nut Butter - https://squirrelsnutbutter.com/discount/ENDURANCE20 Use code "ENDURANCE20" for 20% off!Embark Maple Energy - https://www.embarkmaple.com Use code “EMBARK20” for 20% off!----------------(00:00:00) - Van Life Beginnings, Travel Preferences, and Remote Camping Technology(00:02:40) - Starlink’s Role in Ultra Endurance and New Racing Challenges(00:08:44) - Issues, Controversies, and Lessons from Race Organization(00:12:26) - Early Cycling Experiences and Transition to Long-Distance Bikepacking(00:18:28) - American Trail Race, Problem Solving, and Self-Sufficiency in Endurance Sports(00:23:01) - Resupply, Gear Planning, and Motivation for Stagecoach Line Event(00:27:55) - Post-Event Reflections, Group Dynamics, and Balancing Recovery with Work(00:40:01) - Sponsor Messages, Journey to Van Life, and Sailing Dreams(00:42:27) - Submersible Safety, Risks, and Deep Sea Exploration Perspectives(00:49:23) - Childhood Outdoor Adventures, Sailing Aspirations, and Cost of Boat Ownership(00:53:25) - Balancing Work, Racing, Podcasting, and Prioritizing Health with Age(00:55:21) - Wildfire Impacts on Arizona Trail Plans and Environmental Considerations(01:01:40) - Sleep, Footwear Choices, and Personalized Nutrition Strategies in Endurance Events(01:13:03) - Favorite Foods, Energy Gel Strategies, and Hydration/Salt Supplementation(01:26:53) - Effects of Dehydration, Sleep Approaches, and Enjoyment of Different Disciplines(01:31:29) - Camping Setups, Flow State Experiences, and Community in Endurance Events(01:36:14) - Colorado Trail Race Perspectives, Future Event Planning, and Stagecoach’s Place in the Sport(01:40:55) - Transgender Athletes, Identity vs. Fairness, and Open Dialogue in Sports(01:54:05) - Testosterone Metrics, Sponsorship Concerns, and Public Perception Challenges(02:02:28) - Discussing Sensitive Topics, Miscommunication, and Gender Complexity(02:14:16) - Historical Sex Verification, Civil Conversations, and Closing Remarks----------------#endurance #enduranceracing #enduranceathlete #endurancesports #adventure #bikepacking #bikepackracing
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