Victory Laps With Sarah Wassner Flynn

Victoria Anderson is a woman of many titles: Nuclear engineer, triathlete, synchonized swimming coach, and chocolate lover. And recently, this 40-year-old from Washington, D.C. also became one of the first people in the country to receive the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine through a clinical trial back in October. On this episode, I talk to Victoria about her decision to enter a trial when we really didn't know much about the vaccine, as well as the stressful time she endured at the start of the pandemic when her parents were virtually trapped on a cruise ship that had active cases of COVID aboard, a story she helped make global news. Later, we dive into Anderson's involvement in synchronized swimming and much more, including her love of chocolate. Link to Triple Hot Chocolate Recipe: https://www.washingtonpost.com/recipes/triple-hot-chocolate/16799/ More about Victoria's Parents Cruise Ship Ordeal: https://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/2020/04/03/holland-america-cruise-ship-nightmare-florida-coronavirus-covid/5110933002/ https://www.wave3.com/2020/04/03/ohio-couple-shares-ups-downs-days-confined-cruise-ship/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

Josh Hageman is someone I've known for a few years through the local triathlon community. He's a multidimensional person: He's a father and a husband, a dog dad, an athlete, a model and commercial actor and even has a side hustle making and selling artisanal marshmallows. What always stands out to me about Josh is that he is truly a choose-your-own adventure kind of guy: He has come up with some epic athletic endeavors simply because he wants to push his own limits and break his own boundaries. A lot of what he has done, including a recent 43-mile jaunt around a local track, which we'll get into, are totally on his own and done with little to no fanfare. It's that kind of self-starter attitude and spirit I think we can all adopt as we march into 2021 with still no guarantee that life will be back to "normal." So why not make our own fun? Josh certainly has. Here, he chats about some of those adventures as well as what drives him to do it all. I hope you enjoy. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

Just in the nick of time before the holidays, I had a chance to sit down (via Zoom) with the one and only Matt Wilpers. Matt topped my "dream guest" list when I first started this podcast, so you know I was excited for this one (I tried my best not to fangirl too hard). In this conversation, we chat about how Matt made the decision to forego medical school to work with Peloton, how the company and his position have evolved over the years, we chat about his personalized approach to coaching, what it's really like leading a class alone in a studio with thousands of people at home watching, and so much more. We close out with some holiday hotseat questions, where Matt leaves us with the sweetest Christmas wish for all of his athletes. This is my gift to you, Victory Laps listeners...enjoy!  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

If 2020 went the way Karissa Schweizer had anticipated it may go, the 24-year-old may be an Olympian by now. After all, the professional runner and member of the Bowerman Track Club was primed to dominate the outdoor track scene after setting an American Record in the 3,000m on the indoor track in February just weeks before the pandemic shut everything down and completely altered the sports world. Undeterred, Karissa and her teammates pivoted and managed to pull of some phenomenal racing despite not having actual races. Over the summer, the Bowerman Track Club put on a series of time trial events where teammates raced one another in key distance events, smashing PRs in the process. In one of those time trials, Karissa and her teammate Shelby Houlihan both dipped under the 5,000-meter American Record mark, with Shelby untimately taking the win--and the record--in 14:23. Karissa's 14:26 was a resounding statement of her fitness level and her potential to be one of the world's best in the distance events on the track.  In this conversation, we talk about how 2020 went from the season that wasn't to the season that surprised Karissa the most, as well as how her life has changed since stepping into the shoes of a professional athlete including her approach to nutrition. And, she shares one big thing she did recently that even her coach doesn't know about. Thanks to Karissa for joining me on Victory Laps!  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

Earlier this month, 21-year-old Chris Nikic made history by becoming the first person with Down Syndrome to complete the grueling Ironman triathlon event, entering the Guinness Book of World Records for that accomplishment along the way. Nikic's tale was the feel good story we all needed: An example of hard work, big dreams, and plenty of passion. I had a chance to catch up with Nikic and talk in length with his guide, Dan Grieb, who worked with him for several months, up to 8 hours a day, to get Chris ready for the big day. The journey wasn't easy, and on race day, Chris and Dan faced numerous challenges (spoiler alert: Red ants were involved!), but after 16 hours and 49 minutes, Chris indeed heard the magical words: You are an Ironman. This was one of the most special interviews I've done, and it was a surprise to talk to Chris as I had only lined up Dan. Give it a listen and you will be sure to be inspired. Follow Chris on instagram: @chrisnikic Follow Dan on instagram: @dgrieb --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

Fresh off the race of her lifetime, Clarice Lorenzini breaks down Ironman Florida, where she qualified for her pro card by placing 2nd overall among all amateur women in 9 hours and 44 minutes. Not only that, she posted the 3rd fastest run split among *all* women, including the pros with a 3:07 marathon split, which was a 23-minute PR. This was a redemption of sorts as Clarice's last race was a huge personal disappointment, and because of the pandemic, she was forced to wait over a year to compete again. Clarice discusses how she stayed focused on the big picture over the last mine months despite not knowing when her next race would be, as well as what has kept her motivated throughout all of the uncertainty. And, of course, she describes the race itself and how it all went down. I am so excited for Clarice and her future as a pro triathlete. It's going to be so bright! Follow Clarice on instagram @claricelorenzini. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

Ultrarunners Kristen Serafin and Erin Kelman are a pandemic success story: faced with whether to quarantine together or stay apart in the spring, they chose to go all in. And not only has their relationship grown during this time, so has their mileage. They have done some epic runs together, including a series of ultramarathons as they criss-crossed the country last month. A few weeks ago, they completed the ultimate bucket list adventure of Rim2Rim2Rim...that's crossing the Grand Canyon *both* ways. Kristen and Erin talk about that epic ultrarun, the challenges they faced, and how they managed to grow even closer as a result. This couple is as kind as they are accomplished, and their sweet story will inspire. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

Today's guest is Kristin (Goett) Jenny (kristinjenny207 on Instagram), an accomplished long distance triathlete and writer. World Mental Health Day was observed on October 10 as a way to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and mobilizing efforts in support of mental health, so this could not come at a better time. Because in this conversation, Kristin opens up about her struggles with both anxiety and OCD, which, as she will share, almost ruined her passion for triathlon and derailed her personal life, too. Fortunately, Kristin has found the right plan to treat her issues and is consistently working through them. And while she's comfortable talking about her struggles today, that was not always the case. Now, Kristin hopes to break the stigma of mental health challenges and make people feel less alone. I am honored Kristin chose to share this brave story with all of you because it is so, so important to hear for anyone who has struggled or is struggling with anxiety.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

Dr. Bill Begg, the vice president of medical affairs and head of the ER at Vassar Brothers Medical Center in Poughkeepsie, NY, is one my most fascinating guests to date. A 14-time Ironman, Bill is passionate about triathlon and manages to race several times a year despite his demanding schedule in the ER. Recently, he's been serving on the frontline of the pandemic, which we discuss, and we also chat about two heroic efforts outside of the hospital when he saved two people in two different races he was participating in. Bill is extremely devoted to his family and does not hide his emotion about his love for them, which is especially heartwarming and relatable for us all right now. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

When Glenn Hartrick was paralyzed from the chest down after a tragic accident, he was just weeks removed from finishing an Ironman. Prior to that, he was on the cover of Runner's World. Glenn's life was changed forever, but he refused to feel defeated. Instead, Glenn began to pursue marathons and triathlons as a physically challenged athlete. He set big goals, and he conquered them, even qualifying for the Ironman World Championships in 2018. Glenn is the epitome of perseverance and positivity and that shines through in this conversation. He also reminisces on the NYC Marathon and his race in Kona, which bring all the feels in a year when both of those epic events have been cancelled. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

In Episode 9 of Victory Laps, I catch up with pro triathlete Alissa Doehla, whom I interviewed last year for Triathlete Magazine. At the time, Alissa had just returned to competition after a devastating hit-and-run left her severely injured and sidelined for over a year. Alissa went on to podium in her last major races of 2019, and was primed to do big things this year But, of course, 2020 being 2020, Alissa has been dealing yet again with unexpected challenges; this time, not being able to race due to COVID. In this conversation, Alissa reflects on her time as an elite runner (she ran a 2:30 marathon and was part of the bronze-medalist Team USA squad at the World Cross Country Champs, alongside Molly Huddle and Shalane Flanagan), her transition to triathlon, as well as some of the anxiety she faced as an athlete and how she has overcome it. What's most impressive is that through all of Alissa's ups and downs, she has maintained a positive perspective. Alissa is down-to-earth, humble, and SO kind and I just love what she has to say at the end about having courage over confidence (so listen all the way through to hear that!).  Show notes:  Triathlete Magazine Story: https://www.triathlete.com/culture/alissa-doehlas-road-back-from-a-devastating-hi-and-run/  Follow Alissa on Instagram: @alissadoehla  Follow Victory Laps on Instagram: @victorylapspodcast --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

Today, I chat with Allison (Seery) Boyle, a friend who has been on a very inspirational fitness journey lately. When COVID pressed pause on her typically go-go-go lifestyle, Allison found herself with more time than she'd had in a while, and ultimately found herself. Allison chats about goal setting, finding the motivation to stay consistent in her 3-5 mile walk/runs every day, and how she has involved her family, including her two teenagers, in her healthier approach to life. Allison, who has lost nearly 40 pounds since April, is also a longtime swim team coach and special education teacher, and touches on how she applies the tactics she uses with her athletes and students on herself in order to stay true to herself, to resurge her competitive spirit, and to keep reaching for her goals. You can follow Allison's journey on Instagram, she's @swimcoachmom2. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

In this bonus episode, award-winning photojournalist Brian Skerry chats with me about his fascinating career, including what it's like to swim with sharks, how he has overcome any fear of these predators to seek them out around the world in their natural habitat, and so much more! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

CosmoGIRLS! forever! Rachel and I met back in 2005 at CosmoGIRL! magazine, where we were both on the editorial staff. A lot has changed since then, including Rachel's career from an entertainment editor to a full-time travel and pop culture freelance writer. In this episode, Rachel talks about her career, including a few celebrity tales, and how she finally got the courage to make the big leap into her dream job.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

In this exclusive interview, Ironman World Champ Mirinda "Rinny" Carfrae shares the big news about expecting baby #2 and offers a candid take on pregnancy, motherhood and life as a pro triathlete, the crazy way she and her husband Tim O'Donnell went viral a few months back, and her plans for returning to racing in 2021. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

Today's guest is Eric Opdyke, who is the owner of Rev3 Triathlon, the company that has been putting on races across the country since 2009. As I was brainstorming for guests, Eric came to mind not only because of how he has been able to remain relevant in an industry that has undergone SO many changes over the past few years, but especially because of the way he was able to pivot his brand and business in the wake of the pandemic when all 20 of the events he was set to put on in 2020 were cancelled. In this episode, Eric shares how he has been navigating such a tumultuous time, the unlikely path he took to get to his victory lap, and all of the plans he has for the future.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

This week, I'm chatting with Ashley Weishaar. Ashley and I met as freshmen at Mount Saint Mary's University (Go Mount!) where we ran on the cross country and track teams together. And Ashley wasn't just a runner: She jumped into just about every event there was, and even set a school record in the pole vault that stood for a few years. But despite being the picture of health and athleticism, Ashley's health took a serious turn not long after we graduated when she was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, an auto-immune disease that attacks the colon. Ashley, a mom of five (!), bravely battled this disease for 17 years before coming to a crossroads when the disease was no longer manageable. Her doctor gave her the grim news that her colitis had progressed to the point where it really came between life and death. So, she made the brave decision to under go a total colectomy three years ago. And, today she is celebrating her victory lap, colon–and disease–free. I am so honored Ashley agreed to share this very personal story with Victory Laps listeners. Through her vulnerability and optimism, I know she will provide hope to others, especially those going through any auto-immune disease or other health challenges. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

For this week's conversation. I am thrilled to bring my dear friend Katie Palavecino aboard to share her victory lap. Katie is the personification of hashtag fitspo: She is a superstar triathlete, an accomplished swimmer, a Peloton extraordinaire, a mom of two, and rarely *ever* misses her daily workout. Katie seems to shine in all that she does, but a few years ago, her dreams of competing, or at least pushing herself to the max, were almost derailed when she ruptured her hamstring--it was actually torn 3 centimeters from the bone. Surgery followed almost immediately, and Katie, who had just competed in the Ironman 70.3 World Championships suddenly found herself hardly able to walk.  But, Katie's story doesn't end there. She did find a way to get back to her old ways. It didn't happen overnight, and it didn't happen without a lot of determination, hard work, and creative thinking. Listen to hear more about how Katie overcame her injury to embark on her own victory lap. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

Today, I chat with my sister, Rebeccah Wassner, a professional triathlete whose career has spanned almost two decades–yes, nearly 20 years! But her journey as a pro has not been linear. Rather, Bec has taken what has accumulated to many years off to have her three kids–my nieces and nephew–now ages 7, 4, and 2, and each time she's come back, she's learned new lessons on returning to form and competition after pregnancy and three c-sections. Today, we talk about those lessons, as well as how she has navigated the low lows in her career while staying determined and optimistic, and how she has managed to stay as fast in her 40s as she was in her 20s. And so much more. Bec has been an inspiration to me in so many ways, and I know she will inspire you all the same. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/victorylaps/message

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