In this episode of The Everyday Ironman Podcast, Ashley sits down with newly turned pro triathlete Sarah Spooner to talk about what it really takes to level up—without leaving life behind. Sarah isn’t just racing at the highest level; she’s doing it while working full-time as a teacher, supporting her family, and raising her 9-year-old son alongside her husband.

Sarah shares how she balances training, work, and family commitments, the realities of time management, and the mindset shifts required to chase big goals responsibly. She also reflects on her early days in the sport, including the bike she started on versus the bike she rides now, and how her equipment evolved with her ambitions. Living in North America, Sarah walks us through the process of qualifying for her pro card and offers insight into how she strategically selects races to minimize disruption at home and at work. She also previews the races she’s targeting to kick off her 2026 season.

This conversation is packed with perspective and inspiration for Age Group Athletes dreaming big—right where they are.

#TheEverydayIronman #ProTriathlete #AgeGroupAthlete #TriathlonLife #WorkingAthlete #TriathlonPodcast #WomenInTriathlon #IronmanJourney

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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

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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