In the latest episode of "Find Your Finish Line," I sit down with Jeffrey Reynolds, a remarkable individual who has faced and triumphed over dual cancer diagnoses. Jeffrey's story is not just about surviving prostate and colorectal cancer, but about the resilience of the human spirit and how the mentality of an endurance athlete can apply to the most challenging of life’s races. We discuss his journey through diagnosis and treatment and how his background in public health and social welfare influenced his perspective on receiving help after being the helper for so long. His book, "Every Mile Matters: Turning Triathlon Training Into Cancer Triumph," becomes a central theme as he chronicles how athletics and the ethos of endurance sports have been pivotal in his recovery and outlook. As Jeffrey recounts his grueling treatment, including his participation in a clinical trial that involved 27 rounds of chemotherapy, he shares insights into how his past experiences as a triathlete prepared him mentally and physically for the battle he faced. We explore the concept of true health versus fitness and stress the importance of regular health screenings, a message particularly directed at our listeners who may overlook symptoms due to their lifestyle demands. Jeffrey's story is a powerful reminder that while physical fitness is crucial, being vigilant about one's health is equally important. Through his narrative, Jeffrey offers inspiration and practical advice to anyone who might find themselves in a similar situation—reminding us all of the power of positive thinking, the support of loved ones, and the will to fight. He also emphasizes the importance of oneness with our bodies, urging everyone in the endurance community to pay attention to subtle health changes. Connect with Jeffrey on social media via @JeffReynoldsPhD on Twitter and on his website familyandchildrens.org to follow his ongoing journey and advocacy work.

In this episode of "Find Your Finish Line," I host the extraordinary Mirinda Carfrae, an athlete revered in the triathlon world for her many accomplishments, including being a three-time IRONMAN world champion. We dive into Mirinda's experiences as both a top-tier competitor and as a coach at Salty Bears, a coaching initiative she runs with her husband, Tim O'Donnell. Our conversation kicks off with insights into her current training regime and her reflections on the recent IRONMAN World Championships in Nice, where the Norwegian athletes dominated the podium.   As the women head to Kona for one of the most anticipated races, Mirinda offers her thoughts on the potential frontrunners, outlining the exciting dynamics at play. We discuss how athletes like Lucy Charles-Barclay and Kat Matthews are poised to tackle the course, while also considering the impact of new talents entering the field. Mirinda offers thoughtful analysis on how the courses between Nice and Kona differ and what that means for competitors, while also reflecting on the evolution of women’s participation and recognition in the sport.   Follow Mirinda Visit Salty Bears at saltybearsracing.com out her Instagram @mirindacarfrae Twitter @Mirindacarfrae

In this episode of Find Your Finish Line, I’m joined by six-time IRONMAN champion and exercise physiology expert, Dr. Matt Hanson. Matt shares his remarkable journey from college professor to professional triathlete, a transition sparked by his breakout victory at IRONMAN Texas in 2015. I dive into what drives him, the mindset it takes to perform at the highest level, and how he turned triathlon from a passion into a profession. Matt opens up about the emotional and physical demands of racing three IRONMAN events within five weeks, and the critical role that mental toughness and self-belief play in pushing past perceived limits. He also reflects on how his background in wrestling shaped his grit and determination, lessons that continue to influence his approach to racing. Matt emphasizes the importance of athletes at all levels knowing their “why”, a powerful motivator through early mornings and intense race conditions alike. From his strong family ties and their shared love of sport, to his vision of blending his athletic pursuits with his coaching business, Matt’s story is full of insight and inspiration for triathletes and endurance fans everywhere.   Follow Matt Website: https://matthansonracing.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/matthansontriX: https://x.com/matthansontri

In this episode of Find Your Finish Line, I sit down with the legendary Alistair Brownlee, one of the greatest triathletes of all time and a two-time Olympic gold medalist. Alistair opens up about his training routines, his transition into retirement, and what it’s like shifting from elite competition to a new phase of giving back. We dive into his relationship with his brother Johnny, their iconic racing moments, and the emotional weight of helping each other push to the finish—literally.   Alistair shares the heart behind the Brownlee Foundation, which has introduced nearly 90,000 kids to triathlon, and talks about his passion project: the Brownlee Racing Team, part of the SuperTri league. He also touches on his upcoming endurance adventures, including the seven-day Gravel Burn stage race in South Africa, and reflects on how he’s redefining competition and purpose in this next chapter of life.   Whether you’re an age grouper, pro, or someone just chasing personal growth, Alistair’s story is packed with insight, humility, and inspiration.   Follow Alistair: Website: https://www.thebrownleefoundation.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alistair.brownlee/

In this episode of Find Your Finish Line, I sit down with the remarkable Melanie McQuaid, three-time XTERRA World Champion and the oldest professional to qualify for Kona at age 50. Melanie’s story is nothing short of inspiring. From her beginnings as a professional cyclist navigating a tough and, at times, toxic environment, to becoming a dominant force in triathlon, Melanie has consistently broken barriers and redefined what’s possible.   We talk about the highs and lows of her athletic journey, how she transitioned into triathlon, and the deep sense of community she found along the way. Melanie shares powerful insights into her coaching philosophy at MelRad Coaching and how she helps athletes of all ages train smarter, race better, and believe in themselves more deeply. She even clocked her fastest IRONMAN marathon at age 50, proving that age really is just a number.   If you’re an age-group athlete looking for motivation or just someone who loves a good comeback story, this conversation will fire you up. Melanie’s wisdom, grit, and love for the sport shine through every word.   Learn more at: melrad.com

In this inspiring episode of "Find Your Finish Line," I sit down with the incredible Carrie Bradshaw, a determined marathon runner and the first person to complete the Boston Marathon with a double hip replacement. Despite suffering from congenital hip dysplasia and enduring severe pain, Carrie never gave up on her passion for running. She shares the journey of her diagnosis, the challenging treatments, and ultimately her decision to undergo not one, but two hip replacement surgeries. Through her story, Carrie shares how she overcame mental and physical hurdles, highlighting the importance of setting mini-goals and remaining resilient in the face of adversity. We delve into her recovery process, the adjustments in her running gait, and the emotional moments that kept her going. Catch this episode and more on "Find Your Finish Line." For more support and resources, don’t forget to check out the TriDot and RunDot platforms for your training needs. Follow Carrie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bionicrunnerbabe/

In this episode of Find Your Finish Line, I chat with Michael D’hulst, CEO and co-founder of Supertri, a global leader in short course triathlon. We dive into how Supertri is transforming the sport with its innovative formats and tech-forward approach — all while making triathlon more exciting, inclusive, and accessible.   Michael shares the company’s mission to inspire growth among both fans of the professional sport and participants of all age abilities. He breaks down Supertri’s three brand pillars — Supertri League, Supertri E, and By Supertri — and how each plays a role in reimagining the triathlon experience.   Tune in for an inspiring convo about the future of triathlon and how Supertri is shaping it.   Social Media Handles and Website: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mdhulst/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/supertri_/ Website: https://supertri.com/e/

In this episode of "Find Your Finish Line," I sit down with Paul Weigel, a six-time IRONMAN finisher and author of the inspiring book "Iron Dad: A Cancer Survivor's Story of Discovering Strength, Life, and Love Through Fatherhood." Paul shares his incredible journey of being diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer at the age of 43 and how he continued to compete in triathlons, even completing a half IRONMAN with a chemotherapy backpack. His story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of love, especially the bond between a father and his daughter.Paul opens up about the emotional and physical challenges he faced, from the initial shock of his diagnosis to the grueling treatments and surgeries. He emphasizes the importance of early detection and regular screenings, sharing how his athletic mindset helped him push through the toughest times. Paul also discusses the evolution of his book's title from "Cancer Blinked" to "Iron Dad," reflecting his journey from battling cancer to building a lasting legacy for his daughter, Natalie.This episode is not just about overcoming cancer; it's about finding strength in the face of adversity and the importance of having a plan. Paul’s story is a powerful reminder to keep moving forward, no matter the obstacles. For more information on Paul and his book, visit irondadbook.com and follow him on social media @IronDadBook.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulweigelirondad/

In this episode of "Find Your Finish Line," I had the pleasure of chatting with the legendary Greg Welch, a former professional triathlete who has achieved the remarkable feat of winning the Grand Slam in the sport. Greg shared his incredible journey, from his early days in Australia to his triumphant victories at the ITU Triathlon World Championships, the IRONMAN World Championship, and more. We delved into his experiences, including the harrowing moments during the LA fires and his inspiring comeback stories.   Greg also opened up about his health challenges, including a life-threatening heart condition that forced him to retire from professional racing. Despite these setbacks, Greg's passion for the sport remains undiminished. He continues to contribute to the triathlon community through his work as a commentator and his involvement with Oakley. We discussed the current state of triathlon, the importance of equality in the sport, and the camaraderie that binds the triathlon family together.   For those looking to follow Greg's journey and insights, you can find him on instagram at @welchygram and on Facebook @GregWelchTri

In this inspiring episode of "Find Your Finish Line," I sit down with Matt Long, a man whose story of resilience and determination is nothing short of extraordinary. Matt shares his journey from being a competitive IRONMAN athlete to surviving a catastrophic accident with a New York City transit bus in 2005. Despite being given a slim chance of survival, Matt's indomitable spirit saw him not only recover but also return to the IRONMAN Lake Placid finish line in 2009. His story is a testament to the power of setting big goals, embracing adversity, and the unwavering support of family and community. Matt opens up about the mental and physical challenges he faced during his recovery, including moments of deep despair and thoughts of giving up. He credits his comeback to the support from his family, the FDNY brotherhood, and the triathlon community. Matt's journey didn't end at the IRONMAN finish line; he went on to become a motivational speaker, author of the bestseller "The Long Run," and a world record holder in indoor rowing. His message is clear: adversity is a part of life, but it's how we embrace and challenge it that defines our path forward. Follow Matt Website: http://mattlongspeaker.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattlongspeaker/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Matt-Long-Speaker/

In this special year-end episode of Find Your Finish Line, host Mike Reilly reflects on an incredible 2024 filled with inspiring moments, unforgettable races, and personal lessons. From the triumphs of athletes like Patrick Lange and Taylor Knibb to heartfelt stories of perseverance, Mike shares insights to motivate you through the holidays and into the new year. Tune in for wisdom on controlling your attitude, working your happiness muscle, and becoming the cause of your own experiences. Whether you’re a triathlete, runner, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode is a powerful reminder to always strive for your finish line.

In this episode of Find Your Finish Line, I sit down with the incredible Belinda Granger, a 15-time IRONMAN champion, Challenge Roth winner, and IRONMAN Australia Hall of Famer. With over 35 years in triathlon as a professional athlete, commentator, and mentor, Belinda shares her inspiring journey through the highs and lows of her career. We discuss her transition from Sydney to the Sunshine Coast, the camaraderie within her tight-knit triathlon community, and her legendary rivalry with Lisa Bentley that shaped her as an athlete. Belinda also offers a behind-the-scenes look at her role as a pro liaison for Challenge Family and her meticulous preparation as a race commentator. This episode is packed with heartfelt stories, valuable lessons, and a deep love for the sport of triathlon. Whether you’re an athlete, a fan, or simply someone seeking motivation, Belinda’s story will resonate with you. Follow Belinda on her journey and connect with her on social media to stay inspired: 📸 Instagram: @BelindaGranger 🐦 Twitter: @BelindaGranger

Join me for an extraordinary conversation with John Joseph, a punk rock legend, Ironman athlete, and author who has lived through incredible highs and lows to find redemption and purpose. From his tumultuous upbringing in foster care and running drugs on the streets of New York to becoming the frontman of the Cro-Mags and a 23-year sober endurance athlete, John shares his raw, unfiltered journey of transformation. We dive into his battles with addiction, his spiritual awakening, and how Ironman racing became his new addiction—one that keeps him thriving. John’s story is a testament to resilience, discipline, and the power of the human spirit. Tune in to be inspired and discover how, no matter the odds, you can always find your finish line. Follow John: Instagram: @johnjosephdiscipline Website: https://www.johnjosephdiscipline.com X: @jjcromag

In this episode, I speak with Mike Erwin, CEO of Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB). A West Point graduate and veteran, Mike shares insights from his military service, founding Team RWB in 2010 to support veterans through social and physical connections, and the growth of the organization to 214 chapters and 181,000 members. We explore his leadership journey, life on his 42-acre farm, and his training for the JFK 50 Miler, emphasizing the importance of community and servant leadership. We discuss the power of social connection, lessons from West Point, and how Team RWB fosters camaraderie similar to military life. Mike’s passion for supporting veterans is clear as he reflects on inspiring stories and the value of physical activity for mental and emotional health. Join us for this conversation highlighting resilience, community, and the pursuit to uplift veteran heroes.   Follow Mike Erwin on social media: X: @MikeIrwin Instagram: @IrwinLeadership Team RWB: https://teamrwb.org

In this special episode of Find Your Finish Line, I sit down with six-time IRONMAN World Champion Mark Allen to dive deep into the upcoming 2024 Vinfast IRONMAN World Championship in Kona. Together, we discuss the top contenders, including past champions like Gustav Iden and Christian Blumenfeldt, rising stars like Magnus Ditlev, and seasoned veterans like Lionel Sanders. Mark shares his insights into the unique challenges of the Kona course, how athletes prepare mentally and physically, and what it takes to come out on top. Tune in as we explore the behind-the-scenes preparation and race strategy for this year’s men’s event.   Follow Mark: Website:  markallencoaching.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markallengrip Facebook: https://facebook.com/MarkAllenCoaching X: https://twitter.com/markallengrip

In this episode, we welcome the 2024 IRONMAN World Champion, Laura Philipp, fresh off her remarkable win in Nice, France. With five IRONMAN victories and nearly 20 IRONMAN 70.3 titles under her belt, Laura shares the strategy, mental strength, and adaptability that led her to the finish line. She dives into the nuances of race day, overcoming unexpected challenges, and embracing the joy of her achievements. Discover her mantra—“train smart, have fun, and kick ass”—and how it fuels her passion both in and out of competition.   Learn more about Laura’s inspiring journey, her love for cake, and her unique perspective on balancing health, sport, and life.   For more on Laura, visit her website and follow her on social media: 🌐 Website: laura-philipp.com 📷 Instagram: @laura_philipp_tri 🐦 Twitter: @lauraphilipptri

Join me, Mike Reilly, on a special edition of "Find Your Finish Line" as we dive into the upcoming Women’s World Championship at the Ironman event in Nice, France, on September 22nd, 2024. Together with triathlon expert Dede Griesbauer, we explore the unique challenges of the Nice course, which contrasts sharply with the iconic Kona course, and discuss which athletes might have an edge. We'll analyze the top competitors, including Lucy Charles Barclay, and ponder the evolving landscape of women’s triathlon post-Daniela Reef's retirement. Our discussion also covers potential dark horses and strategic plays that could define this year’s race. To add to the excitement, we give a shout-out to our sponsor, Pillar Performance, offering a special discount to our North American listeners. I encourage everyone to join the conversation by sending in your predictions in the comments. Tune in for an episode filled with anticipation, strategies, and a celebration of triathlon. Follow Dede: https://dedegriesbauer.com https://www.facebook.com/dedegriesbauer https://www.instagram.com/dedegriesbauer https://www.twitter.com/dedegriesbauer

In this episode of Find Your Finish Line, I’m joined by two remarkable endurance athletes: NHL legend Zdeno Chára and iconic Boston Marathon race director Dave McGillivray. Zdeno shares his inspiring journey from dominating the ice with the Boston Bruins to running marathons and taking on Ironman challenges. Dave, a true endurance veteran, opens up about directing over a thousand races, running 52 consecutive Boston Marathons, and balancing his passion for sport with his role as a dedicated family man. Together, we dive into what it means to push limits, face fears, and find your finish line—whether on the marathon course or in life. Tune in for a powerful conversation filled with personal stories, expert insights, and the unwavering spirit of endurance that unites us all.   Follow Dave https://davemcgillivray.com https://www.facebook.com/dmsedave https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-mcgillivray/ https://www.instagram.com/dmsedave   Follow Zdeno https://www.instagram.com/zeechara33  

In our conversation, Steven discusses his training regimen, the lessons he learned from his family’s immigrant experience, and his relentless pursuit of big goals. He offers advice to aspiring entrepreneurs and endurance athletes, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and surrounding yourself with experienced mentors. Tune in for a deeply motivating episode as we explore Steven’s story of grit and determination, and get ready to be inspired to find your own finish line. Thank you for joining us, and remember, you’re the cause of your own experience. Keep your attitude strong, and you’ll always find your finish line.

In this episode, I sit down with Audra Tassone, the Executive Director of the IRONMAN Foundation. We discuss the importance of hydration and nutrition during summer training, the incredible impact of the IRONMAN Foundation, and Audra’s inspiring career journey. Audra shares touching stories about the foundation’s work, including providing swim lessons and bikes to children, and her own path from athlete to executive director. Tune in for a dose of motivation, expert advice, and heartwarming stories from the world of IRONMAN.