Episodes

  • Hosts Kayla and Erin are back answering your questions and talking triathlon and life.

    Some of the things we talk about in this episode:
    - Flexibility in training can lead to a better performance and reduce burnout.
    - how to remove the swim buoy in swimming
    - What goggles work best in swimming
    - How do we utilize caffeine in races
    - Its ok to miss training sessions sometimes
    - Our thoughts on the T100 contracts
    - What you should do if you miss a training session
    - women should be supported in balancing careers and motherhood.

    Cheers!
    Kayla and Erin

    If you could please share the podcast on your socials or leave a review it would be most appreciated.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Triathlon Passion
    02:55 Vacation Reflections and Fitness Concerns
    06:04 The Importance of Flexibility in Training
    09:03 Training Consistency and Overcoming Challenges
    11:57 Navigating Pregnancy and Training
    15:56 The Balance of Holiday Preparations and Training
    20:02 Swimming Techniques: Ditching the Buoy
    29:10 Choosing the Right Swim Goggles
    31:28 Utilizing Caffeine in Races
    38:39 Thoughts on T100 Contracts and Athlete Responsibilities
    52:32 Managing Missed Training Sessions


  • Welcome to a new mini series that is being tested out on the podcast - mini episodes all about mindset (mindfulness) in endurance sports / triathlon brought to you by mental performance and triathlon coach Kayla Bowker. If you like it please share with your friends and family!

    Summary
    In this episode, Kayla Bowker introduces a new series focused on mastering the mindset for triathletes and endurance athletes. The conversation emphasizes the importance of visualization as a powerful mental tool that can enhance performance by mentally rehearsing actions, scenarios, and outcomes. Kayla discusses techniques for effective visualization, including sensory-rich imagery and the significance of mental rehearsal in building confidence and preparing for challenges. The episode concludes with practical applications of visualization in training and racing, encouraging athletes to incorporate these strategies into their routines for improved performance.

    Cheers!
    Kayla

    Takeaways

    - Visualization is a powerful mental tool for athletes.
    - Mental rehearsal can boost confidence and focus.
    - Visualization helps prepare for unexpected challenges.
    - Creating sensory-rich imagery enhances the effectiveness of visualization.
    - Visualization is not just a mental exercise; it's a rehearsal for success.
    - Athletes should visualize actions needed to achieve their goals.
    - Mental rehearsal can help reduce pre-race nerves.
    - Incorporating visualization into training can improve performance.

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  • In this solo episode, Kayla (professional triathlete and triathlon coach) shares an update on her pregnancy journey, discussing her current stage at over 20 weeks, managing symptoms like nausea and fatigue, and her training regimen as a triathlete. She reflects on motherhood, the dynamics of her growing family, and the challenges of returning to running postpartum. Kayla emphasizes the importance of listening to one's body during pregnancy and adjusting training intensity accordingly, while also addressing listener questions about running during and after pregnancy.

    Cheers!
    Kayla

    Chapters

    00:00 Pregnancy Journey Update
    05:09 Managing Symptoms and Energy Levels
    10:52 Training Adjustments During Pregnancy
    19:45 Returning to Running Post-Pregnancy
    25:31 Intensity and Pregnancy Training
    33:58 Looking Ahead and Future Plans

  • Fun episode recapping our takeaways on the Men's Ironman World Championships in Kona, HI. We talked about how we loved the content creation before hand but our hot take was that in order to make Nice World Championships elevate to the same energy we have to bring the same energy to it. We then go into sharing our own takeaways from the entire race in which we both came away with the reminder that the race is a three sport race not just a bike show. Next we answer your questions about equipment, how to wake up early on race day, and how we tap into our dedication and motivation.


    Takeaways

    - Experiences at T100 Lake Las Vegas provide valuable insights.
    - Mental toughness is crucial in endurance sports.
    - It's never too late to pursue your dreams.
    - Work ethic is shaped by upbringing and experiences.
    - Learning from mistakes is part of growth in sports.
    - Triathlon is a journey of self-discovery and resilience.

    Cheers!!
    Kayla and Erin

    Work with us!!! Need Coaching? We are taking on athletes right now! www.whereyourfeettakeyou.com

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Triathlon Passion
    06:01 Experiences at T100 Lake Las Vegas
    12:06 Race Strategies and Mental Toughness
    17:57 Analyzing the Men's Race Dynamics
    24:09 Final Thoughts on Racing and Strategy
    31:31 Dynamic Racing: The Thrill of Competition
    36:43 The Unique Challenge of Kona: A Triathlete's Perspective
    43:58 Nutrition and Supplements: Fueling Performance
    51:54 Work Ethic and Personal Growth: Lessons from Life
    01:00:57 Chasing Dreams: It's Never Too Late


  • Erin shares her excitement about racing a 4k open water swim, while Kayla provides insights into her pregnancy journey and the challenges of balancing training and life. The duo dives into topics such as transition tips for triathletes, the pros and cons of using erg mode on Zwift, finding the right running shoe size, and strategies for dealing with cold weather races. They also explore how to find a competitive edge in racing and Erin's recovery journey after surgery. The episode concludes with predictions for the upcoming T100 race.

    Cheers!
    Kayla and Erin


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Goals
    03:03 Erin's Exciting Weekend Plans
    06:01 Pike's Peak Adventure on a Gravel Bike
    11:01 Kayla's Pregnancy Journey and Training Balance
    14:59 Transition Practices and Improving Times
    21:04 Erg Mode vs. Non-Erg Mode in Workouts
    26:59 Finding the Right Fit in Running Shoes
    30:42 Conquering Cold Races
    38:42 Finding Your Competitive Edge
    47:26 Navigating Recovery Challenges
    59:28 Race Predictions and Excitement


  • In this solo episode, Kayla Bowker shares her journey through pregnancy as a professional athlete, discussing the challenges and triumphs of balancing training, motherhood, and mental health. She provides updates on her training regimen, the impact of pregnancy on her body, and her preparations for welcoming baby number three. Kayla emphasizes the importance of self-care, motivation, and listening to one's body during both pregnancy and postpartum recovery, offering valuable insights for other athletes and mothers.

    Cheers!
    Kayla

    Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/whereyourfeettakeyoupodcast

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Journey
    01:00 Navigating Pregnancy as an Athlete
    10:12 Training Updates and Challenges
    15:27 Mental Health and Motivation
    22:31 Preparing for Baby Number Three
    25:18 Postpartum Recovery Insights

  • We are back this week with a big recap on our thoughts about the Women's World Championships but first we discuss Erin's recent performance training and experience with a run specialist, Kayla's update on training while pregnant. The conversation also touches on the importance of mental resilience in sports, the pros and cons of fasted training, and the need for better coverage of women's triathlon events. With a mix of personal anecdotes and professional insights, this episode is a must-listen for triathlon enthusiasts and athletes alike.

    Cheers!
    Kayla and Erin

    please help support the podcast www.patreon.com/whereyourfeettakeyoupodcast

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Triathlon Passion
    03:02 Erin's Running Journey and Performance Training
    05:55 Training Challenges and Mental Exhaustion
    08:59 Weather and Training Conditions in Arizona
    12:04 Ironman World Championships Overview
    14:58 Insights from the Ironman World Championships
    18:00 Discussion on Women's Triathlon Coverage
    20:55 Fasted Training: Pros and Cons
    24:03 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

  • In this episode of the Where If You Take You podcast, host Kayla Bowker interviews Christine Coppola, an accomplished open water swimmer who recently completed the Catalina Channel swim. Christine shares her journey from being a competitive swimmer to embracing the challenges of marathon swimming. The conversation delves into the intricacies of training, the mental resilience required for long-distance swims, and the importance of having a supportive crew. Christine also discusses her future goals, including her upcoming swim across the English Channel, and the valuable lessons she has learned about herself through her swimming experiences.

    Cheers!

    Kayla

    Please help support the podcast www.patreon.com/whereyourfeettakeyoupodcast

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Background of Christine Coppola

    02:06 Rediscovering the Love for Open Water Swimming

    06:31 Understanding Open Water Swimming, Marathon Swimming, and Channel Swims

    09:19 Training and Preparation for Open Water Swims

    15:36 The Challenges of Swimming at Night and in Cold Water

    22:53 The Importance of Mental Preparation for Long Swims

    28:08 Building a Supportive and Skilled Crew for Open Water Swims

    31:00 Navigating the Waters: Challenges and Communication

    42:46 Personal Growth and Overcoming Self-Doubt

    44:22 Taking it Step by Step: Breaking Down the Swim

    47:42 The Supportive Community of Open Water Swimming

    51:10 Prioritizing Self-Care as a Mom and Athlete

  • In this solo episode, Kayla Bowker shares her personal journey through pregnancy giving an update on having Hyperemesis Gravidarum and detailing the challenges she faces with Hyperemesis Gravidarum nausea, fatigue, and the impact on her training as a professional athlete. She discusses the emotional and physical toll of hyperemesis gravidarum, the importance of seeking support, and the balance between motherhood and athletic aspirations. Kayla reflects on the surprising difficulties of this pregnancy compared to her previous experiences and emphasizes the need for self-care and understanding during this challenging time.

    Cheers!
    Kayla

    help support the podcast at www.patreon.com/whereyourfeettakeyoupodcast

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Podcast Update
    01:55 Pregnancy Journey: Weeks 1-14
    10:57 Challenges of Pregnancy and Mental Health
    16:14 Training with Kids: Balancing Life and Fitness
    21:01 Surprising Aspects of This Pregnancy
    29:20 Future Plans and Conclusion


  • Welcome back to the show!!! Erin and Kayla talk about Erin's move to Colorado, how her training has been while settling in there, and then go into Kayla's race at Michigan 70.3 while 13 weeks pregnant. We go on a little bit of a rant about drafting, then head into our thoughts on the Women's Ironman World Championships Preview and end with some listeners questions regarding tri suits and open water swimming.

    Cheers!
    Kayla and Erin

    PLEASE HELP SUPPORT THE PODCAST www.patreon.com/whereyourfeettakeyoupodcast

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates
    02:59 Adjusting to New Environments
    05:58 Triathlon Training Challenges
    09:01 Kayla's Race Experience During Pregnancy
    18:04 Race Dynamics and Drafting Issues
    27:06 Emotional Reflections on Racing
    30:02 Upcoming Ironman World Championships
    39:58 Listener Questions and Answers

  • This conversation is part of a series called 'Road to Ironman World Championships in Nice' where Kayla interviews and shares the stories of people who have qualified for the women's world championship in France. In this episode, Kayla chats with Rachel Goyette, who has qualified for the Ironman World Championships. They discuss Rachel's background, her experience working at previous world championships, and her excitement for participating in the upcoming race. They also talk the importance of women recognizing their accomplishments and deserving the best equipment. Rachel shares her training focus for the race and offers advice for balancing training, work, and family life. The conversation revolves around the excitement and positive vibes surrounding the women's race at the upcoming triathlon in Nice. They discuss the potential benefits of having separate race days for men and women, allowing women to have their own spotlight. They also touch on the challenges faced by women in balancing multiple roles, such as being a mom, a career woman, and an athlete. Overall, they emphasize the importance of women's empowerment and the need for more women to participate in endurance sports.

    CHEERS!!
    Kayla

    Please help support the podcast and join the Patreon Community www.patreon.com/whereyourfeettakeyoupodcast

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Getting to Know Rachel Goyette

    03:34 Rachel's Experience Working at the Ironman World Championships

    05:04 Disparity Between Men and Women in Triathlon

    10:17 Balancing Training, Family, and Work

    14:30 Training for the Challenges of the Nice Course

    19:37 Letting Go of Perfection and Embracing Adaptability

    24:43 Excitement for the Ironman World Championships

    26:02 The Joyful Atmosphere of the Race in Nice, France

    27:32 Exploring France and Enjoying the Local Food

    32:49 The Importance of Women Having Their Own Race Day

    37:00 Balancing Motherhood, Career, and Athletics

    43:57 Empowering Women to Participate in Triathlon

    48:30 Embracing Joy and Gratitude in Racing

  • Welcome back to the Week 12 Pregnany Update! In this episode I talk a bit about how I have been feeling, go over some really high level aspects of how training has been going, talk about the fact that it is race week and how I feel about racing pregnant as a Professional. Lastly, I chat about how I chose a Midwife group vs. an OBGYN group.

    Hope you enjoy!
    Kayla

    Send any questions you may have to my instagram at @kayla-bowker-4

    Help support the podcast at www. patreon.com/whereyourfeettakeyoupodcast

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Background
    02:49 12 Weeks Pregnant: Challenges and Symptoms
    08:01 Training and Racing While Pregnant
    11:45 Preparing for a Race at 13 Weeks Pregnant
    19:32 Choosing a Supportive Healthcare Provider
    21:26 Managing Energy and Fatigue
    24:12 Update on Training and Racing Plans
    28:25 Empowering Yourself During Pregnancy

  • Chelsea Wolfe, a former college swimmer and triathlete, shares her journey to the Ironman World Championships in Nice. She brings a lighthearted and fun atmosphere to the sport of triathlon. Chelsea discusses her training, including the challenges of training in the Arizona heat and the benefits of indoor training. She also talks about her experience at Ironman Texas and her excitement for the upcoming race in Nice. Chelsea reflects on her transition from swimming to triathlon and the mental strength she has developed through her training. In this conversation, Chelsea Wolfe and Kayla discuss the challenges of training for triathlons, particularly on a treadmill, and how to balance training with a full-time job and travel. They also talk about the importance of representation and accessibility in triathlon, especially for women. Chelsea shares her tips for traveling with a bike and her excitement for the upcoming race in Nice.

    Cheers!!!!

    HELP SUPPORT THE PODCAST www.patreon.com/whereyourfeettakeyoupodcast


  • Part one of my pregnancy series where I plan to share all aspects of pregnancy as a Professional Triathlete and mom of two toddler boys. This episode is a combination of week 7 update and week 8 update in which I was honestly feeling really pretty horrible so I apologize if it is a little down trodden sounding. It is raw and vulnerable which I believe very strongly we need to have more of in the pregnancy journey.

    Thank you for following along!
    Cheers!
    Kayla

    For more along this journey -- I will do specific episodes answering questions on my patreon page at www.patreon.com/whereyourfeettakeyoupodcast

  • Becky McQuain shares her journey in triathlon and her experience qualifying for the Ironman Nice World Championships. She talks about her first Ironman race and the joy and excitement she felt crossing the finish line. Becky discusses her training for the championships, including ocean swimming and climbing practice. She expresses her excitement for the women's only event and the opportunity to be part of the first women's World Championships in Nice. Becky emphasizes the importance of rest, consistency, and setting realistic goals. She also discusses the value of gratitude and finding joy in the process. Becky opens up about dealing with a physical challenge and the power of sharing her struggles with others. She highlights the supportive triathlon community and the impact that age groupers have on inspiring others. Becky encourages athletes to remember their positive impact on the sport, regardless of their race day performance.

    HELP SUPPORT THE PODCAST www.patreon.com/whereyourfeettakeyoupodcast

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Background
    02:52 Qualifying for the Ironman Nice World Championships
    06:19 Becky's First Ironman Experience
    09:35 Preparation for the Championships
    13:03 Training for the Swim and Bike
    15:39 Excitement for the Run and Loop Course
    17:36 The Significance of the Women's Only Event
    19:57 The First Women's World Championships in Nice
    22:44 Nervousness about the Time Change
    26:43 Finding Joy in the Training Process: Gratitude and Patience
    31:49 The Power of Sharing Struggles: Support from the Triathlon Community
    37:27 Inspiring Others: The Impact of Age Groupers in the Sport

  • Welcome to the Road to Ironman World Championships 2025 Nice France Series. In this episode we sit down with Jennifer Vollmann to talk about how powerful it has been for her daughter to witness an all womens field, where she qualified, how training has been going, we dive into her experiences in Extreme Triathlon and how she balances training for standard triathlon with Extreme Triathlon.

    Jennifer and Kayla discuss their excitement for the Ironman World Championships and the unique experience it offers. They talk about the camaraderie among triathletes and the joy of being surrounded by like-minded individuals. They also touch on the women's pro field and the unpredictability of the race. Jennifer shares her goals for the race and emphasizes the importance of mindset and perseverance in triathlon. They discuss the challenges and sacrifices women face in the sport and the need for more recognition and support. Jennifer provides her social media handles and website for those interested in following her journey.

    Cheers!
    Kayla

    Please help support the podcast at www.patreon.com/whereyourfeettakeyoupodcast

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Background
    04:57 The Impact of Women's Races
    06:44 The Challenging Bike Course in Nice
    10:43 Balancing Extreme Triathlons and Traditional Triathlons
    14:29 Preparing for Extreme Triathlons at High Altitudes
    22:08 Pushing Personal Limits in Extreme Triathlons
    24:46 The Excitement of the Ironman World Championships
    27:49 Setting Personal Goals for the Race
    29:50 The Potential for Unexpected Outcomes in the Women's Pro Field
    32:27 The Importance of Women's Representation in Triathlon

  • I won't spill the beans here in the description you'll have to listen to the episode for some REALLY BIG FUN NEWS!!!!!

    We also answer your questions:
    - What courses are best for PRs,
    - Calf Sleeves,
    - Peeing on the Bike
    - Different body types in triathlon and how powerful it is that we are in a sport that has different body types
    - Staying motivated towards really long term goals

    Cheers!
    Kayla and Erin

    PLEASE HELP SUPPORT THE PODCAST www.patreon.com/whereyourfeettakeyoupodcast

    Looking for a triathlon coach to help your goals? We are taking on athletes - www.whereyourfeettakeyou.com

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
    00:30 Training and Life Updates: Mountain Biking, Gravel Riding, and Moving
    08:26 Managing Stress and Illness: Prioritizing Self-Care
    21:46 Exciting Announcement: Kayla's Pregnancy
    22:01 Choosing the Right Bike Course for a PR
    29:38 Improving Performance with Arrow Calf Sleeves
    30:04 Aero Benefits and Use of Compression Sleeves and Calf Sleeves
    36:26 Knowing When to Retire Cycling Shoes
    41:07 The Challenge of Peeing on the Bike
    46:37 Body Image in Triathlon: Power and Performance
    53:23 Staying Focused on Long-Term Goals

  • Coming soon the Road To Nice World Championships series. To include mini interviews and episodes with women who have qualified for the race. We will chat about how they qualified, what they are excited for, and more!!!
    Episodes will start dropping in September! Stay tuned.

    Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/whereyourfeettakeyoupodcast
    Cheers Kayla

  • Back with a huge list of questions this week!!! In this episode we cover the following:

    -- Using a gravel bike for triathlon training
    -- Supplement usage and how important it is to be an informed athlete
    -- HR training
    -- When your watch and treadmill don't match
    -- importance of strength training.
    To check on what supplements are legal use the resource www.usada.org.
    Cheers! Kayla and Erin

    SUPPORT THE PODCAST PLEASE!!!! www.patreon.com/whereyourfeettakeyoupodcast
    Chapters
    03:20 The Benefits of Gravel Riding
    07:06 Breaking Barriers: Age in Sports
    09:05 Exploring the Use of Supplements in Triathlon
    23:14 Legal Supplements in Triathlon
    35:05 Managing Discrepancies Between Watch and Treadmill Paces
    37:44 Using Heart Rate Monitors for Recovery and Intensity
    43:43 The Role of Strength Training in an Athlete's Training Program

  • In this episode, Kayla and Erin discuss their recent experiences and check in on their training progress. They also talk about the water quality issues at the Olympics and share their thoughts on short course and draft legal racing. Kayla and Erin discuss various topics related to triathlon, including the strategic decisions made by athletes during races, their favorite athletes to watch, training while traveling, and handling the injury grieving process. They also provide insights into training during travel, suggesting that athletes should adapt their workouts based on the time of year and their racing goals. Additionally, they discuss the use of carbon shoes in training and the need for athletes to rotate their shoes to prolong their lifespan. Finally, they share tips for handling the emotional process of dealing with injuries, including allowing oneself to grieve and focusing on the present moment to make the best decisions for long-term development.

    Cheers! Kayla and Erin

    PLEASE HELP SUPPORT THE PODCAST www.patreon.com/whereyourfeettakeyoupodcast

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Check-In
    06:17 Water Quality Issues at the Olympics
    14:05 The Appeal of Short Course and Draft Legal Racing
    20:28 Favorite Triathletes to Watch
    23:02 The Strategy of Not Wearing a Wetsuit
    29:13 Training While Traveling: Adapting Workouts Based on Time of Year and Racing Goals
    37:35 The Use of Carbon Shoes in Training: Limitations and Benefits
    43:27 Handling the Emotional Process of Dealing with Injuries in Triathlon