Season 3 - Episode 18 : Peripheral Damage

Episode SummaryWe're back! Aaron Thomas Smith and Devon Palmer recording from Devon's "estate" (fine, his house) in what may or may not be called an art room. Play-Doh, kinetic sand, bracelets - total state of chaos. Perfect.Big updates this episode. Devon's still run-focused - four times a week plus Zwift rides. Just did the Get in Gear Half Marathon (1:41:50), training for City of Lakes Half and Twin Cities Marathon again after last year's "unremarkable" performance. We talk about the London Marathon breaking two hours, running injuries from JV maneuvers, and why that 1.2 mile walk after the marathon was a disaster.Aaron's back. Down 11 pounds (223 to 222, goal is sub-200). Riding four times a week, weight training three times a week, 20-hour fasts. Less stress, more availability to do what he loves. Went on his first group ride in 2-3 years - the ACF Wednesday night ride - and had this revelation: he didn't know anyone, didn't have to lead anything, just got to enjoy riding a bike. Game changer.We get into the peripheral stuff that ruins hobbies, why comparison is the thief of joy, and how being responsible for everything everywhere crushes the fun. Aaron lost his Strava KOM to his former boss Martin Lacey. Devon's ten years sober from triathlon. And yes, we're moving from bi-annual to maybe monthly recordings.What You'll Get:Devon's running updates and Twin Cities Marathon redemption arcAaron's cycling comeback story (and why group rides are saving him)How being a "dad" everywhere in your life ruins your hobbiesThe peripheral stuff that crushes joy in any sportWhy we're both avoiding committee responsibilities like the plaguePlans for more regular episodes (we'll see)