Grit and Dirt - Inspirational Stories of Grit and the Dirt on How to Change Your Life

On this week's episode, Bethany and Kathryn chat about training and racing on the face of the sun. Just kidding, but it does get very hot in Georgia. Listen as they cover everything from why some people race better in the heat, common mistakes people make in the heat (hint, it has to do with too many mid-day workouts), whether the treadmill is a good idea, and why it's important to know the goal of each workout. Also, find out about the third 'child' Bethany is giving birth to this summer.

This week Kathryn chatted with Sara Gross, former professional triathlete, advocate for women in triathlon, and founder of Live Feisty media. Sara and a group of 12 others founded TriEqual and the 50 Women to Kona Movement. Sara and Kathryn discuss why it is important, and the changes in the Kona Qualification system. At Live Feisty Media the goal is to share stories and fresh perspectives of women in triathlon. Live Fiesty produces the Ironwomen Podcast and If We Were Riding.

Have you ever followed that athlete on Instagram posting nothing but incredible workouts, all while looking happy and refreshed? Do you wonder how they have time to work, spend time with their family, or even go to the grocery store? Bethany and Kathryn cover how social media can be both helpful--and harmful--to your training. Listen now and share your thoughts - does social media help or harm you in your training? How do you manage it? What's your favorite platform to use?

Triathlon involves three disciplines, countless pieces of equipment, and transitions. For Type-A athletes, the temptation is to strive for the perfect race. The reality is, there is no perfect race. You'll always find something you can improve on or do better. Bethany and Kathryn were at one of Georgia's local races over the weekend and share insights on things that new or veteran triathlons can do to make their next race even better.

Bethany and Kathryn are back with the Grit and Dirt Podcast with a new format. You'll continue to get the Grit (inspiration) but as triathlon season kicks off in many parts of the country, it's time to get into the dirt -- everything you need to know to successfully train and race. Bethany loves wetsuits, Kathryn hates them. On today's episode, they debate the pros and cons of wearing a wetsuit in the swim and cover topics like how to avoid a long T1 by quickly removing the suit.

When Steph Corker finished her first triathlon, she dreamed that by 60 she might be able to do an Ironman. Fortunately for her, she started to pursue her goal a bit earlier and became one of the top age-groupers in the country. Steph talks to us about her journey to becoming pro and how she made the decision to make the jump because she didn't want to be defined by the things that scared her. We think you'll enjoy this conversation with Steph as much as we did!

Alyssa Godesky is a professional triathlete, coach, and co-host of the Ironwomen Podcast. We had a chance to chat with her and learn all about her story of getting involved in triathlon, how she developed a confidence that has led her to try some unexpected challenges and how she hopes to shape the sport. Tune in to hear more about Alyssa and her journey!

Since February is the month of love, we decided to chat with one of the happiest couples that we’ve ever met in the sport of triathlon. Chuck and Nicole Chittick are Atlanta-area triathletes who have found ways to enjoy their hobbies together over the course of the thirty-year relationship and marriage. Hear about their journey to becoming triathletes, their race-day philosophy, and how they give back to the sport.

Today we had an opportunity to sit down with former pro triathlete, Belinda Granger and age-group, Lynda Rowan for the second part of the conversation about how they got involved in the sport of triathlon, how they met, the things triathlon has taught them and why they still love the sport so many years later

Today we had an opportunity to sit down with former pro triathlete, Belinda Granger and age-group, Lynda Rowan for a conversation about how they got involved in the sport of triathlon, how they met, the things triathlon has taught them and why they still love the sport so many years later. Whether you're a new triathlete or have been in the sport for several years, we think you'll be inspired to sign up for your next race after listening to their passion.

Paul Linck has been a consistent face on the triathlon circuit around the Southeast for the past decade. He's qualified for Kona 4x, but his biggest battle was with cancer. Just 4-months after his last chemo treatment, Paul lined up at the start of the Ironman World Championship. The vulnerability of Paul's story will touch you and his grit and determination will inspire you.

April Gellatly might be the most positive person you encounter on an Ironman course. With lots of energy, positive feedback and a LOUD voice, and likely dressed in pink, you'll know April when you meet her. April shares the good and bad of life as a pro and what made her decide to leave the pro world and focus on her coaching business. Whether you're thinking of your first triathlon or dreaming of Kona, April's story of grit and her practical advice will get you ready for the next step.

Tere Derbez-Zacher is a World Champion swimmer though she didn't start swimming till age 24 and a professional runner who represented Mexico as an alternate in the Olympics at age 44. Tere believes that you are the only one who determines your limits and she spends her time teaching that to both aspiring and high-level athletes. You don't want to miss this conversation where we hear her story and learn insights on how to master your mindset to accomplish big goals.

Haley Chura didn’t dream of becoming a professional triathlete when she was a collegiate swimmer at the University of Georgia. Far from it, she dreamed of life as an accountant. After a few years, Haley ended up quitting her job to become a pro triathlete. Her journey as a pro has been full of ups and downs and valuable lessons. Haley’s now using her platform to influence women in sport as the host of the Ironwomen Podcast. We think you’ll enjoy our interview with her as much as we did!

Jeff and Andre Shinabarger are two strong-willed leaders who want to change the world have learned how to stay in love and raise a healthy family while they pursue their passions.  Jeff and Andre always knew they had big dreams. She serves as a Physician's Assistant in Atlanta and Jeff is the Founder and Executive Director of a nonprofit in Atlanta called Plywood People, where he leads a community of startups who are doing good.