In this episode of The Everyday Ironman Podcast, Mike and Ashley are joined by Eric Hansen, the organizer of the iconic Mackinac Bridge Swim. Eric has led the event for the past five years, operating it as a non-profit and donating proceeds back to the communities on both sides of the bridge. Spanning 4.5 miles and separating Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, this swim is as meaningful as it is challenging.

Eric shares the story of first applying to be part of the event, explains why participant safety is his top priority, and details the requirement of a 40-minute mile swim to qualify. While it’s not officially timed, swimmers cross an unforgettable “I Did It” line. You’ll also hear about his handmade medals crafted from original bridge steel, the famous “slap them columns” mantra, wetsuit and fin rules, and why crystal-clear lake water and Hostess Cupcakes fuel the day. Naturally, Mike challenges Eric to a cupcake-eating showdown.

Click the link to see more about the Mackinac Bridge Swim: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ith4tjPr8sg&t=185s

#EverydayIronman #AgeGroupAthlete #OpenWaterSwimming #MackinacBridgeSwim #TriathlonLife #EnduranceAthlete #SwimCommunity

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In this episode of The Everyday Ironman Podcast, we’re joined by professional triathlete David Guenthardt for an honest and insightful conversation about life in—and beyond—the pro field. David shares why he recently decided to step away from competing as a professional, while making it clear he’s not retiring from triathlon altogether.

David opens up about the realities of racing as a pro, including the fact that he never made a living solely from the sport and has always worked a full-time “regular” job. He gives Age Group Athletes a rare behind-the-scenes look at how pros handle race signups, fees, and logistics, and explains key differences in draft zones and slipstreaming between pro and Age Group racing.

We also dive into XTERRA, he answer our off-road triathlon questions, and talk about what’s next on David’s race calendar—including pacing duties at an upcoming half and full marathon.

#EverydayIronman #TriathlonPodcast #AgeGroupAthlete #ProTriathlete #XTERRA #SwimBikeRun

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In this episode of The Everyday Ironman Podcast, Mike and Ashley are joined by Dr. Iris Nafshi for a powerful conversation centered on her PhD dissertation focused on Ironmoms. Iris is a wife, a mom to four boys ranging from ages 12 to 26, a dog mom to four pups, and a multiple-time Ironman finisher with three Master’s degrees to her name.

Iris breaks down what a dissertation actually is, how she landed on her topic, and why studying the tension between athletic grit and maternal guilt matters for Age Group Athletes. She shares insights into the data she collected, how she analyzed it, and what the findings reveal about women balancing family, work, travel, and endurance sport. The conversation wraps with a powerful reminder of the importance of community, as Iris encourages athletes to invite a non-athlete female friend to join them in training for their next race.

#EverydayIronman #Ironmom #TriathlonLife #AgeGroupAthlete #IronmanTraining #WomenInTriathlon #EnduranceMindset #TriathlonCommunity

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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