The PhD Journey Unplugged

Episode 77: Hope and Passion are Stronger than Diagnosis | A Conversation with Nicholas Kelly, MS, RDWhat happens when a diagnosis becomes the beginning of a mission instead of the end of a dream?In Episode 77 of The PhD Journey Unplugged, I sit down with Nicholas Kelly, MS, RD—Registered Dietitian, TEDx Speaker, patient and clinician advocate, and cystic fibrosis fighter—for an inspiring conversation about resilience, purpose, and choosing hope in the face of adversity.Nicholas shares how living with cystic fibrosis has shaped not only his personal journey but also his professional calling to improve the lives of others through nutrition, advocacy, and compassionate healthcare. Together, we explore what it means to move beyond limitations, find purpose through life's challenges, and build a life defined not by diagnosis, but by passion, service, and possibility.This conversation is for anyone navigating adversity, supporting a loved one through illness, working in healthcare, or seeking encouragement to continue moving forward with courage and hope.Because our greatest strength is often revealed not in the challenges we face—but in the purpose we discover through them.In this episode, you'll discover:How Nicholas transformed personal adversity into professional purpose.The role of nutrition in living well with chronic illness.The importance of patient advocacy and compassionate healthcare.Why hope and passion can be stronger than any diagnosis.Practical lessons in resilience, perseverance, and human flourishing.If this conversation encouraged you, please consider subscribing and joining us as we continue exploring the journeys that help us flourish.Strength for the journey within.All information shared on The PhD Journey Unplugged Podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be deemed professional advice.

Limitless: Training for the Person You're Becoming | Episode 76 with Keri Mandell, "The Iron Yogi"What if the only thing standing between you and the life you want...is the story you've been telling yourself?In Episode 76 of The PhD Journey Unplugged, Dr. Sarah Gordon welcomes endurance athlete, coach, author, and motivational speaker Keri Mandell, known to many as "The Iron Yogi."Keri has dedicated her life to discovering what is possible when we move beyond perceived limitations. From running extraordinary endurance events in some of the world's most challenging environments to helping others transform their own lives through movement, mindfulness, and purpose, her journey reminds us that our greatest barriers are often the ones we place on ourselves.In this inspiring conversation, Keri shares the lessons that shaped her life, what she learned while literally running around the world in seven days, and why true growth begins long before we ever cross a finish line.Together, Sarah and Keri explore what it means to train—not simply for an event—but for the person we are becoming.Whether you're an endurance athlete, entrepreneur, leader, student, or simply someone striving to become the best version of yourself, this episode will challenge you to rethink your own potential.In this episode, they discuss:• Developing a limitless mindset• Training for personal growth, not just performance• Resilience through adversity• The relationship between physical endurance and mental strength• Yoga, mindfulness, and self-discovery• Breaking through self-imposed limitations• Finding purpose through challenge• Lessons from elite endurance racing• Building confidence one decision at a time• Living intentionallyFeatured GuestKeri MandellEndurance Athlete"The Iron Yogi"Author of Limitless: What I Learned Running the World in Seven Days (Release Date: October 1st, 2026) - Sign up here for pre-release: https://www.empowertrainingandretreats.com/limitlessVisit Keri:https://www.empowertrainingandretreats.comSubscribe to The PhD Journey UnpluggedIf you enjoy conversations exploring resilience, leadership, health, motivation, successful aging, endurance sports, and living a life of purpose, be sure to subscribe and join our growing community.YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThePhDJourneyUnpluggedAlso available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts (and additional free RSS feeds).Connect with Dr. Sarah GordonFounder & HostThe PhD Journey UnpluggedWhere education meets inspiration through authentic conversations that empower people to grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and purposefully.All information on The PhD Journey Unplugged is for general informational purposes only and should not be deemed professional advice.

In Episode 75 of The PhD Journey Unplugged, Dr. Sarah Gordon sits down with Leading Fitness Expert, Chris Ryan, for a thoughtful conversation about what it really means to train for life.This episode explores the connection between physical fitness, longevity, healthy aging, strength, mindset, discipline, resilience, and purpose. Chris shares insights from his personal and professional journey, offering a broader perspective on training that extends far beyond performance, appearance, or competition.At the center of the conversation is an important question:“What are we training for?”In Chris Ryan’s words:“We are training for life.”Together, Chris and Sarah discuss how intentional training can help us build the physical capacity, mental resilience, confidence, and discipline needed to live with greater purpose across the lifespan.This conversation invites us to reconsider exercise not simply as something we do to improve fitness, but as a way to prepare ourselves for the demands, opportunities, challenges, and experiences of life.Topics explored in this episode include:Strength training and functional fitnessLongevity and healthy agingExercise motivation and purposeMental resilience and disciplineBuilding confidence through movementTraining for real lifeThe role of fitness in long-term well-beingPersonal growth through physical challengeCreating purpose through trainingEpisode 75 is a powerful reminder that the goal of training is not only to become stronger in the gym.It is to become stronger for life.Learn more about Chris Ryan:chrisryanfitness.comConnect with Chris:[email protected] to The PhD Journey Unplugged for conversations exploring human performance, motivation, resilience, healthy aging, personal growth, and the strength we build along the journey.The PhD Journey UnpluggedHosted by Dr. Sarah GordonInspiration. Growth. Purpose.#ChrisRyan #TrainingForLife #Longevity #HealthyAging #StrengthTraining #FunctionalFitness #FitnessMotivation #Resilience #ExerciseMotivation #HumanPerformance #PersonalGrowth #Wellness #Podcast #ThePhDJourneyUnpluggedAll information on The PhD Journey Unplugged Podcast is for general informational purposes and should not be deemed as professional advice.

Episode 74: What Are We Training For? | Training to Flourish: The Journey of Healthy Aging with the Founder of The Endurance Edge, Chris Newport, MS, RDNWhat are we really training for?A faster race?A longer life?Better health?Or something much deeper?In Episode 74 of The PhD Journey Unplugged, Dr. Sarah Gordon welcomes Chris Newport, MS, RDN, Founder of The Endurance Edge, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Exercise Physiologist, Certified Sports Nutritionist, and Endurance Coach, for a thoughtful conversation exploring the intersection of performance, longevity, motivation, and healthy aging.Together, they move beyond traditional conversations about nutrition and endurance performance to ask a larger question:What does it truly mean to flourish throughout an entire lifetime?Drawing upon decades of experience helping athletes and active adults optimize their health, Chris shares practical insights into personalized nutrition, recovery, lifelong fitness, and the science of healthy aging. The conversation explores how understanding our unique physiology empowers us to make informed decisions that support not only today's goals but the life we hope to live for years to come.As someone who recently presented her doctoral research at the 9th International Self-Determination Theory Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, Dr. Gordon also reflects on how our motivations evolve over time. Through the lens of Self-Determination Theory, they discuss how autonomy, competence, and meaningful relationships help us build sustainable habits that extend far beyond the finish line.This episode invites listeners to consider a different perspective on success—not simply measured by performance, but by our capacity to continue growing, contributing, connecting, and flourishing throughout life.Whether you are an endurance athlete, health professional, coach, researcher, or simply someone striving to live your healthiest life, this conversation offers practical wisdom and thoughtful reflection on the journey of healthy aging.As you listen, consider one question:What are YOU training for?Topics Discussed• Healthy aging and longevity• Personalized nutrition and exercise science• Sustainable health habits• Performance versus purpose• Self-Determination Theory (Autonomy, Competence & Relatedness)• Lifelong movement and flourishing• Endurance athletics and wellness• Building a meaningful life through healthIf you enjoyed this conversation, please subscribe to The PhD Journey Unplugged, where we explore authentic conversations that inspire growth, connection, purpose, and human flourishing.Strength for the Journey Within.All information shared on The PhD Journey Unplugged podcast by Dr. Sarah Gordon and her guests is for general informational purposes only and should not be deemed professional advice.

Episode 73: Sometimes the Journey ChangesWhat happens when you finally reach the mountain you've spent years climbing?After completing her PhD at 58, presenting her dissertation research at an international conference in Geneva, Switzerland, launching The PhD Journey Unplugged podcast, and walking through more than a decade as a caregiver, Dr. Sarah Gordon found herself asking an unexpected question:"Who am I now?"In this deeply personal solo episode, Sarah reflects on a season of transition—one that many people experience but few openly discuss.Sometimes, life isn't asking us to climb another mountain. Sometimes, it is inviting us to pause long enough to discover who we have become along the journey.This episode explores:Finding purpose after major life achievementsNavigating identity during seasons of changeThe transition from caregiving to rediscovering yourselfWhy accomplishment doesn't always answer life's deepest questionsLearning to embrace reflection instead of constant strivingThe difference between achieving more and becoming moreRather than offering easy answers, Sarah invites listeners into a thoughtful conversation about human flourishing, purpose, and the courage to live the questions that shape our lives.If you've ever wondered...Who am I becoming?Where do I go from here?What fills the space after achievement?...this conversation is for you.As Dr. Gordon shares:"Perhaps this season isn't asking me to climb another mountain. Perhaps it's asking me to discover who I am when I stop climbing."At the close of this episode, Sarah introduces a new tradition for her solo episodes:Questions Along the Journey—a series of reflective questions designed not to provide immediate answers, but to accompany you throughout your own journey of growth.Because sometimes the most meaningful questions are not meant to be answered in a single day.They are meant to be carried.Thank you for walking this journey together.Hosted by: Dr. Sarah GordonFounder, The PhD Journey Unplugged, LLCStrength for the Journey WithinAll information shared on The PhD Journey Unplugged podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be deemed as professional advice.

Episode 72: Wake Up to Die Again – Breaking Who You Became So You Can Be Who You're Meant To BeIn this powerful conversation, Dr. Sarah Gordon sits down with author, Army veteran, Ironman finisher, inventor, business leader, and transformational speaker Scott Lackey to explore what it truly means to become who we are meant to be.Inspired by his new book, Wake Up to Die Again, Scott shares the deeply personal experiences that shaped his understanding of resilience, purpose, identity, and transformation. Together, they discuss the "lightning strike" moments in life that challenge us, break us open, and ultimately reveal what matters most.Scott reflects on the lessons learned through Ironman training, overcoming broken promises made to himself, rebuilding trust, navigating adversity, and discovering the power of self-forgiveness. Throughout the conversation, he offers a compelling reminder that growth often begins when we are willing to let go of old versions of ourselves.Key topics include:• The hidden cost of broken promises to ourselves• Rebuilding trust through small daily actions• Lessons learned through the Ironman journey• The role of pain in personal transformation• Why self-forgiveness is essential for healing• Faith, resilience, and finding purpose through adversity• The "Lily Pad Principle" for creating lasting change• Becoming who you are meant to beOne of the most powerful messages from this conversation is simple yet profound:"If you can heal yourself, then you can be a healing force for everybody else."Whether you are navigating a difficult season, pursuing a meaningful goal, or seeking a deeper sense of fulfillment, this conversation offers encouragement, wisdom, and practical insights for the journey ahead.Connect with Scott Lackey:https://scottlackey.comThank you for listening to The PhD Journey Unplugged Podcast.Dr. Sarah GordonFounder, The PhD Journey Unplugged, LLCStrength for the Journey Within#ThePhDJourneyUnplugged #ScottLackey #WakeUpToDieAgain #Resilience #Transformation #PersonalGrowth #Ironman #Purpose #SelfForgiveness #Leadership #GrowthMindset

Episode 71: In Episode 71 of The PhD Journey Unplugged, Dr. Sarah Gordon sits down with endurance athlete, coach, author, and founder of Team B*REAL, Adina O'Neill.Adina's story is one of perseverance, inclusion, and the unwavering belief that movement belongs to everyone. After beginning her journey unable to run a single mile, she went on to complete more than 100 endurance events, including marathons, Ironman triathlons, marathon swims, and epic endurance challenges that pushed the limits of what she once believed possible.As the founder and Head Joy Coach of Team B*REAL, Adina has dedicated her life to helping athletes of all sizes, identities, ages, and abilities discover confidence, belonging, and belief through movement. Team B*REAL stands for Realistic, Empowered, Attainable, and Lifestyle—four principles that serve as a roadmap for sustainable growth and success.Together, Sarah and Adina explore the powerful themes behind Adina's book, Forward Is a Pace, discussing how progress is not measured by speed, but by the courage to keep moving forward. They dive into the importance of finding your tribe, creating spaces where everyone feels welcome, overcoming self-limiting beliefs, and learning to embrace the journey rather than focusing solely on outcomes.The conversation also highlights Adina's historic Boston Light Swim attempt, scheduled for July 20, 2026. Adina will seek to become the first person to attempt the iconic eight-mile Boston Light Swim entirely on backstroke, reversing the traditional route by swimming from South Boston Harbor to Boston Lighthouse. More than an athletic challenge, the swim represents a powerful message of resilience, possibility, inclusion, and doing things her own way.If you've ever questioned whether you belong, struggled with self-doubt, or wondered if it's too late to pursue a goal, this conversation will remind you that progress comes in many forms—and that sometimes the most important step is simply continuing to move forward.Because forward is a pace.Topics discussed include:• Building confidence through movement• The mission and philosophy behind Team B*REAL• Inclusion and belonging in endurance sports• Finding your tribe and community• The power of self-belief• Lessons from open water swimming• Resilience, mindset, and personal growth• Adina's historic Boston Light Swim attempt• Why movement is for everyoneYou belong here. Movement is for everyone.To learn more about and support Adina O'Neill's historic Boston Light Swim challenge, visit:https://teambreal.com/the-boston-light-swim/To learn more about Team B*REAL and Adina's coaching platform, visit:https://teambreal.com/aboutDisclaimer: All information shared on The PhD Journey Unplugged Podcast is intended for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your individual circumstances.

Episode 70: What if life isn't about finding one tribe—but about discovering the many communities that shape us along the way?In this special episode of The PhD Journey Unplugged, Dr. Sarah Gordon shares a reading of The Tribe, a thoughtful and deeply personal essay written by Jerry Dunn.Through humor, wisdom, and stories spanning decades of life experience, Jerry reflects on the tribes that have influenced his journey—from the running community and ultrarunning culture to healing, sobriety, friendship, and the ongoing search for belonging.More than a story about running, The Tribe is a reflection on identity, growth, resilience, and the people who walk beside us through life's many seasons. Jerry challenges us to consider that perhaps life isn't about finding where we fit in forever, but about remaining open to growth, new experiences, and new communities that help shape who we become.At its heart, this piece is a reminder that flourishing is found through movement, connection, curiosity, and the courage to continue evolving.As Jerry writes:"Find your people. But don't be afraid to outgrow them. And perhaps most importantly: The campfire is always somewhere else... waiting for you."Thank you to Jerry Dunn for allowing this piece to be shared with The PhD Journey Unplugged community.

Episode 69: What if the person you are becoming requires you to let go of who you once were?In Episode 69 of The PhD Journey Unplugged, Dr. Sarah Gordon welcomes fitness, performance, and wellness coach, entrepreneur, lifelong athlete, and founder of AE Fitness & Performance Coaching, Arwen Elaine, on the show.Together, Sarah and Arwen explore one of the most profound questions of personal growth:Who am I becoming?From childhood labels and family roles to career identities, athletic pursuits, and life transitions, we often carry stories about ourselves long after they no longer reflect who we truly are. In this thought-provoking conversation, Sarah and Arwen discuss how identity evolves across the lifespan, why some identities must be released to make room for new ones, and how growth often begins with permitting ourselves to change.In this episode, we explore:• The identities we inherit from family, school, and society• How labels shape our beliefs about ourselves• The difference between assigned identity and authentic identity• Why self-compassion is essential during seasons of change• Kristin Neff's work on self-compassion• Carol Dweck's Growth Mindset and identity development• Imposter syndrome and why it may be evidence of growth rather than inadequacy• Identity theory and performance psychology• The concept of "nascence" — the process of beginning anew• How identity influences performance in sport, leadership, career, and life• The importance of authenticity, alignment, and personal evolution• The transformative question: What would change if I permitted myself?This conversation is for anyone navigating a life transition, redefining themselves after a major accomplishment, exploring a new chapter, or wondering whether the identity they've carried for years still fits who they are becoming. Because sometimes growth is not about becoming someone new. Sometimes growth is about becoming more fully yourself.Subscribe to The PhD Journey Unplugged for conversations at the intersection of human performance, leadership, resilience, healthy aging, motivation, and personal growth.Disclaimer: All information shared on The PhD Journey Unplugged Podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be deemed as professional advice.

Episode 68: "There are no shortcuts in the endurance journey." Maria Simone, Founder & Head Coach, No Limits Endurance. What happens when athletes step outside their comfort zones and immerse themselves in an environment designed for growth, connection, and performance?In Episode 68 of The PhD Journey Unplugged, Dr. Sarah Gordon sits down with Maria Simone, Founder and Head Coach of No Limits Endurance Coaching, USA Triathlon Coach Educator of the Year, accomplished ultra-endurance athlete, and one of the most respected voices in endurance coaching today.Maria's remarkable athletic accomplishments include being a two-time Double Anvil Champion, Ironman World Championship finisher, multiple-time Ironman Gold All World Athlete, Western States 100 finisher, Boston Marathon qualifier, and award-winning coach who has helped athletes of all levels discover what they are truly capable of achieving.Together, Sarah and Maria explore one of the most powerful yet often overlooked tools for athlete development: training camps.In this conversation, they discuss:- Training Camp Wisdom- Lessons Learned- Overcoming the Fear of Showing Up- Why Community Matters- What you learn in the hard- Setting Big Dreams- Taking Steps to Move Forward- A No Limits MindsetWhether you're training for your first 5K, an Ironman, an ultramarathon, or simply striving to become a stronger version of yourself, this episode offers powerful insights into confidence, resilience, personal growth, and the limitless potential that emerges when we challenge ourselves alongside others.As Maria reminds us throughout this conversation, achievement often begins long before race day. It begins with belief. To learn more about Maria Simone's platform, training camps, and coaching philosophy, or to contact her, visit the No Limits Endurance website at nolimitsendurance.com. Subscribe to The PhD Journey Unplugged for conversations at the intersection of human performance, leadership, resilience, healthy aging, endurance sports, and lifelong personal growth.Disclaimer: All information shared on The PhD Journey Unplugged Podcast is for general information purposes only and should not be deemed as professional advice.

Episode 67: In Episode 67 of The PhD Journey Unplugged, Dr. Sarah Gordon sits down with World Champion endurance athlete, Team USA triathlete, and coach Jennifer Hoban, Founder of Finding Fast Again Coaching.Jennifer’s journey through sport spans more than three decades and reflects a life grounded in discipline, resilience, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Beginning as a competitive swimmer, cyclist, and multisport athlete, Jennifer first entered the world of triathlon in 1993. After stepping away from endurance sport for several years, she returned in 2012 with renewed purpose and determination.Since 2019, Jennifer has represented Team USA multiple times on the international stage at the World Triathlon Championship Series, establishing herself among the top endurance athletes in the world. She has earned All-American status, achieved multiple Top 10 USA rankings, won the Overall Women’s World Championship at Garmin Gravel Worlds in 2022 at age 51, and continues competing at the highest levels of triathlon and gravel cycling.Her performances on the world stage have continued to elevate in recent years. In 2024, Jennifer earned 1st place for Team USA and became a World Champion in Aquabike competition. In 2025, she advanced even further, placing 8th overall in the world while once again finishing 1st for Team USA.Yet behind these extraordinary accomplishments lies a story far deeper than podium finishes and rankings.Jennifer openly shares her journey through significant medical setbacks, including injuries and health challenges that forced her to repeatedly rebuild herself physically, mentally, and emotionally. After doctors told her she would never run again, Jennifer chose not to accept limitation as the final chapter of her story. Instead, she forged forward with courage, determination, and belief — ultimately returning not only to running but to competing successfully on the international stage.This episode moves far beyond sport. It becomes a conversation about resilience, identity, rebuilding confidence, and rediscovering momentum after life slows us down — physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually.Dr. Gordon and Jennifer explore what it truly means to “Find Fast Again,” not simply in athletic performance, but in life itself. Together, they discuss perseverance through adversity, sustainable excellence, a growth mindset, and the power of continuing forward even when progress feels invisible.Jennifer also shares her coaching philosophy through Finding Fast Again Coaching, where she works with athletes of all levels — from beginners discovering endurance sports for the first time to national qualifiers and elite-level competitors pursuing world-class performance.Whether you are an athlete, professional, student, leader, or someone navigating your own season of rebuilding, this conversation offers a powerful reminder:Sometimes finding “fast again” is not about becoming who we once were — it is about discovering a stronger, wiser, and more resilient version of ourselves.Episode 67 also marks a deeply meaningful milestone as Dr. Sarah Gordon celebrates the 1st Anniversary of The PhD Journey Unplugged Podcast. Dr. Gordon shares her gratitude for the guests, listeners, and community that have supported the show throughout its first year. She reflects on how fitting it is to share this milestone episode with Jennifer Hoban — someone who fully embodies the mission of the podcast: living our best lives “from the inside out,” overcoming obstacles, pursuing growth, and embracing the lifelong journey of human performance and resilience.Disclaimer: All information shared on The PhD Journey Unplugged Podcast is intended for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional medical, psychological, legal, or performance advice.

Episode 66: What does it truly mean to use failure as fuel?In Episode 66 of The PhD Journey Unplugged Podcast, Dr. Sarah Gordon sits down with ultra-endurance triathlete, philanthropist, entrepreneur, and author JD Tremblay for a powerful conversation on resilience, discipline, faith, human performance, and the mindset required to pursue excellence.JD Tremblay is one of only three people in the world to complete the Epic Deca — 10 Ironman-distance triathlons in 10 days across six Hawaiian Islands. A former member of the Canadian military and Director of High Performance and Mental Resilience at Hungry Warrior Academy, JD has built his life around pushing beyond perceived limits while helping others transform their mindset and reclaim purpose.But this episode goes far beyond sport.Together, Sarah and JD explore:- The difference between structure and true discipline.- Why failure is often the closest point to success.- How adversity can become fuel for growth.- The dangers of tying self-worth to outcomes.- The meaning behind the “Hungry Warrior” mentality.- Faith, resilience, and living with intention.- The role of rest, recovery, and balance in sustainable performance.- Why discipline without purpose can become unhealthy.- The importance of serving others and building a lasting impact.JD also shares the philosophy behind Hungry Warrior Academy and the organization’s work supporting youth and underserved communities in Africa through mentorship, sport, mindset development, and leadership.Throughout the conversation, listeners are challenged to ask themselves:What is my non-negotiable?What am I truly capable of?And am I living up to my full potential?This episode is not simply about ultra-endurance racing. It is about identity, growth, courage, and learning how to transform struggle into purpose.Guest: JD Tremblay, Ultra-Endurance Triathlete | Philanthropist | Author | Entrepreneur, Author of Hunger For More in Life Hosted by: Dr. Sarah Gordon, Founder, The PhD Journey Unplugged Podcast#HumanPerformance #Resilience #Mindset #Discipline #FailureAsFuel #UltraEndurance #Triathlon #MentalResilience #Faith #GrowthMindset #ThePhDJourneyUnplugged

Episode 65: In this powerful spoken reflection, “America’s Marathon Man,” Jerry Dunn shares a deeply philosophical meditation on endurance, truth, and the lessons learned through long effort. Read by Dr. Sarah Gordon on The PhD Journey Unplugged Podcast, "The Hill Never Lies" explores the striking parallels between a child racing a gravity car downhill and a distance runner navigating the long road of endurance sport.Through the lens of physics, motion, resistance, and human performance, Jerry challenges us to rethink how we approach struggle, failure, and progress. In a world that often explains away discomfort and negotiates with reality, this piece reminds us that the hill, the road, and the body respond honestly. They do not judge us — they simply reflect our preparation, alignment, and willingness to adapt.At its core, this reflection is not about pushing harder. It is about removing what interferes. Whether in sport, life, leadership, or personal growth, The Hill Never Lies invites listeners to consider that meaningful progress may come less from force and more from awareness, patience, and refinement.This is a moving reflection for runners, triathletes, endurance athletes, coaches, and anyone navigating the long game of human performance and self-discovery.Written by Jerry Dunn Read by Dr. Sarah Gordon The PhD Journey Unplugged Podcast

At nearly 90 years old, Dr. Steven Jonas continues to embody the principles of lifelong movement, resilience, and healthy aging.In this deeply meaningful episode of The PhD Journey Unplugged, Dr. Sarah Gordon sits down with Dr. Steven Jonas, whose remarkable life journey has carried him through medicine as a physician, academia as a professor emeritus, accomplished author, public health pioneer, ski instructor, triathlete, and triathlon historian.What makes Dr. Jonas’s story especially powerful is that he did not grow up as an athlete. As a child, he struggled with traditional sports and never viewed himself as athletic. Everything changed during medical school when a spontaneous ski trip with two friends introduced him to alpine skiing — a sport that would completely transform his relationship with movement and physical activity.Through skiing, Dr. Jonas discovered confidence, balance, joy, and belonging. His passion for the sport eventually led him to become a certified ski instructor, teaching in Breckenridge, Colorado, and spending decades immersed in a sport he deeply loved.Years later, after recognizing his own declining fitness while working in public health and preventive medicine, Dr. Jonas began running in his 40s. What started as short training runs evolved into local road races, marathons, triathlons, duathlons, and Ironman competitions. Over the next four decades, he completed an astonishing 257 triathlon and duathlon races, in addition to hundreds of road races ranging from 5Ks to marathons.Together, Dr. Gordon and Dr. Jonas explore:- The life-changing power of discovering movement later in life.- Skiing, balance, and finding a sport that fits your abilities.- The origins and early history of triathlon and duathlon.- The evolution of the wellness and health promotion movement.- Why triathlon became “a sport for everybody.”- Exercise as medicine and healthy aging.- Consistency, longevity, and purpose across the lifespan.- The emotional meaning of crossing finish lines.- Lessons from nearly 90 years of living with vitality, resilience, and purpose.Dr. Jonas also reflects on his work with and contributions to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) “Exercise Is Medicine” initiative, the foundational years of the preventive health and wellness movement, and the friendships and identity he built through decades of endurance sport participation.Most importantly, this episode is a reminder that human performance is not solely about speed or competition — it is about participation, joy, resilience, community, and continuing to move forward through every season of life. “There’s always another race,” as Dr. Jonas shares with the audience.This is an unforgettable conversation about movement, meaning, longevity, and the enduring spirit of a man who helped shape the modern wellness movement while continuing to live its message every single day.As the host, Dr. Gordon expresses deep gratitude to Dr. Jonas for joining the show, recognizing him as a true pioneer in health promotion and the triathlon community. His contributions across medicine, academia, athletics, and public health have impacted generations and continue to inspire others to pursue healthier, more active, and meaningful lives.It was an absolute honor to welcome Dr. Steven Jonas to The PhD Journey Unplugged. A friend, mentor, visionary, and leader.Disclaimer: All information shared on The PhD Journey Unplugged is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional medical or health advice.

What does it truly mean to compete on a global stage?In this episode of The PhD Journey Unplugged Podcast, Dr. Sarah Gordon sits down with professional triathlete Amy Vantassel for a genuine and thought-provoking conversation about the responsibility athletes carry when traveling the world to race.Triathlon is more than performance—it is an opportunity to engage with diverse cultures, communities, and environments. Amy shares her personal experiences competing internationally, including a moment of public backlash that led to reflection, accountability, and growth. Through honesty and humility, she opens up about what it means to make a mistake, take ownership, and learn from it.Together, Sarah and Amy explore:The importance of understanding cultural norms, customs, and expectations before travelingHow athletes can show respect to the communities that host global competitionsThe role of humility, awareness, and education in international sportWays to give back to underserved and remote communities along the racing journeyWhy being an athlete is not just about personal achievement—but about the impact we have on othersThis episode is a powerful reminder that human performance extends beyond the physical. It is about how we show up in the world—with awareness, respect, and intention.🎧 Whether you are an athlete, coach, or global traveler, this conversation will challenge you to think beyond the finish line."Go fast. Stay humble. Respect the culture."Disclaimer: All information in The PhD Journey Unplugged Podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be deemed as professional advice.

What does it truly mean to perform—not just in a single moment, but across the span of a lifetime?In Episode 62 of The PhD Journey Unplugged Podcast, Dr. Sarah Gordon sits down with endurance athlete and performance coach Christina Candio, founder of ENFLYTE, to explore a powerful mindset for navigating the long game of human performance.Drawing from her background in sports psychology, endurance coaching, and mindful performance, Christina introduces ENFLYTE as more than a coaching service—it’s a philosophy grounded in the idea that performance is not a fixed state, but a dynamic, ever-evolving journey.Using the metaphor of being “in flight,” this conversation reframes how we think about growth, resilience, and success. Just like a plane’s journey includes takeoff, turbulence, cruising, and landing, human performance requires constant adjustment, recalibration, and trust in the process.Together, they explore:The difference between time-based and performance-based goalsHow to break through the “I can’t do it” mindset and build lasting confidenceThe foundational role of sleep and recovery in long-term performanceGuiding people on their journey and meeting them where they are at - towards optimal performanceStrategies towards greater mindfulness and intentionChristina’s journey as an 8-time marathoner, Ironman 70.3 finisher, ultrarunner, and full Ironman athlete brings real-world credibility to a conversation that extends far beyond sport.This episode is a powerful reminder that the goal is not just to reach the destination, but to learn how to navigate the flight.Dr. Gordon expresses her gratitude to Christina for joining her on "The PhD Journey Unplugged Podcast" and looks forward to continued conversations together.All information on "The PhD Journey Unplugged Podcast" is for general informational purposes only and should not be deemed as professional advice.