Best MichandaShines Podcasts (2025)

1
Soundtrack to the Finish Line: Amplifying the Athlete Experience with Ann Wessling 1:12:22

23h ago1:12:22

1:12:22

Meet Ann Wessling: the energizer, the trailblazer, the swim cap skirt-wearing superstar with a mic and a message you won't want to miss! Get ready for an electrifying, deep, yet joyful conversation about the journey behind the voice. From her early days hosting a triathlon news show to bringing the party to the Tri-Rock series, Ann shares how story…

1
Trust the Process: Breaking the Tape After Breaking Down with Kate Donohue 55:42

8d ago55:42

55:42

"Crash your bike. Break your body. Undergo surgery. Have a bad race. DNF. Get sick. Burn out. Miss the mark—over and over again. And still… You show up. You try again. And again. And again.” - Kate Donohue. This powerful quote encapsulates the unwavering spirit of our guest, Kate Donohue, whose triathlon journey is a testament to resilience and the…

1
Beyond The Assumptions with Melissa Batum and Shane Smith 1:00:16

15d ago1:00:16

1:00:16

Discover the heart of the triathlon community through Melissa and Shane's journey. Their story shines a light on the often-unsung heroes – the volunteers who are the backbone of every race – and the ongoing movement towards greater inclusivity in a sport where body image stereotypes can unfortunately persist. Shane openly reflects on his initial mi…

1
From Fear to Finish Line: Late Start, Big Wins with Mary Hager 55:18

22d ago55:18

55:18

Imagine learning to swim from the legendary six-time Ironman World Champion, Dave Scott, in your twenties, only to let a fear of falling off a bike keep you from the world of triathlon for decades! That's exactly what happened to our incredible guest this week, Mary Hager. Living in Washington, DC, at the age of 60, Mary finally decided to tackle h…

1
Tri-Running on Purpose with Michael Shipp 1:05:51

29d ago1:05:51

1:05:51

Prepare to be inspired by Michael Shipp's (Shipp)extraordinary journey on this episode of Tribe Beginner’s Luck. This veteran, coach, and community builder—the driving force behind Philly Track Jawn and Perfect Timing Multisport—reveals the raw, unfiltered story of his transformation. Hear how Shipp went from resisting mandatory 5K runs during his …

1
Team Z: Where Everyone Wins with Ed Zerkle 1:07:03

1M ago1:07:03

1:07:03

What makes a triathlon team more than just a training group? In this episode, we sit down with Ed Zerkle, the chief steward of Team Z, to explore how he turned his passion for coaching into a thriving, inclusive triathlon community. Discover how Team Z transcends traditional training, prioritizing camaraderie and personal growth. Ed shares candid s…

1
TriFoxx Rising: I Don’t Know My Limits with Latifah Lowery 1:01:22

1M ago1:01:22

1:01:22

A multifaceted woman whose life story weaves together the worlds of music, modeling, motherhood, and triathlon, thats Latifah Lowery. Witness her remarkable journey, sparked by a friend's invitation to the electrifying Ironman World Championships in Kona 2017. That single experience planted a seed, igniting a passion that would redefine her life. D…

1
From Pool to Podium: Beginner's Luck at Its Finest with Jillian Cantrell 46:11

2M ago46:11

46:11

Can you imagine going from lifelong swimmer to a triathlon age-group winner in your very first race? Tune in as we sit down with Jillian Cantrell, a former competitive swimmer, who added shifting gears and running shoes to her repertoire and took the triathlon world by storm in her first year! Jillian recounts her journey from joining the Capital Y…

1
The Aunt-Niece Triathlon Takeover with Lisa and Camri Johnson 1:10:25

2M ago1:10:25

1:10:25

This week we take a journey into the heart of the YWCA Women’s Triathlon in Minneapolis. Lisa and Camri Johnson, an aunt-niece duo have conquered this race since 2016 and have no plans of stopping anytime soon. This candid conversation reveals the evolution of their triathlon experiences, from the nervous excitement of their first race to the chall…

1
130 Ironmans and Counting: On my Own Terms with Susan Haag 1:16:35

2M ago1:16:35

1:16:35

Susan Haag, a seasoned triathlete with over 130 Ironman finishes and 400 total triathlons since 1990, shared her incredible journey with Tri Beginner’s Luck. From a reluctant athlete in her youth to a powerhouse in endurance sports, Susan detailed the mental fortitude and perseverance required to excel. She recounted overcoming challenges like flat…

1
Olympic Trial to Ironman: Swim to Code with Nnamnse Ammons 57:53

2M ago57:53

57:53

From high school record-breaker to Olympic hopeful, Ironman conqueror, and now, a community game-changer: Nnamnse's story is a whirlwind of achievement. From elite athlete to "Swim to Code" founder, his drive is relentless. Dive into his world: discover the training secrets behind his endurance feats and the mental grit that fuels both his races an…

1
Mr. BTA and the Triathlon Movement with Tony Brown 55:07

3M ago55:07

55:07

No athletic background? No problem! This week, we talk with Tony Brown, Founder of the Black Triathletes Association (BTA), whose journey from a non-athlete to an Ironman finisher proves that belief and mindset are paramount. Tony shares his inspiring story and unique, time-based training philosophy that makes triathlon accessible to everyone. He a…

1
The OG Sporty Girls: Best Friends Who Tri with Jen Price and Rashan Ali 51:00

3M ago51:00

51:00

With the power of a friendship that spans over 30+ years, you get several opportunities to share memories, life experiences, and encourage each other to Tri. This week’s episode is fun, inspiring, and really gets back to basics as Michanda gets to have a conversation with her big sisters, Jen Price and Rashan Ali! From their shared history with the…

1
Unlocking the Secrets of World-Record Holders with McKenley Mason and Yolanda Holloway Stevens 52:30

3M ago52:30

52:30

You are never too old to Tri or set a World Record! This week, we have two remarkable athletes, Yolanda Holloway Stevens and McKenley Mason, who share their incredible journeys in the world of triathlons and endurance sports. From conquering Ironman races to mastering the Tokyo Marathon, these Guinness World Record holders reveal their strategies, …

1
Running the Course with Ted Metellus 59:37

3M ago59:37

59:37

We're back! Time flies when you're having fun, and after a short break, we're recharged and ready to dive into a new season of inspiration and connection. This season, we're going back to basics. Before we Tri'ed, we swam, biked, or ran – maybe you're a seasoned athlete, maybe you just woke up one day and decided to tri, or maybe you're new to the …

1
Triathlon Unfiltered: Noel Mulkey on Social Media, Stereotypes, and Second Chances 1:15:11

4M ago1:15:11

1:15:11

Happy Holidays everyone! We're wrapping up 2024 with a special episode that's less of an interview and more of an intimate conversation. Join Michanda and Noel Mulkey as they dive deep into life, triathlon, and the complexities of social media. Noel opens up about his incredible journey from overcoming heroin addiction at just 20 years old to becom…

1
The Triathlete and the Spectathlete: A Sister Act 59:05

5M ago59:05

59:05

This episode takes us into the world of triathlon through the unique lens of sisterhood. Layla Doman, a late-blooming triathlete who conquered her first triathlon at 44, shares her inspiring journey from learning to swim just nine years ago to crossing her first Ironman finish line this year. Her sister, Libya, provides a captivating counterpoint, …

1
The Tribe Within the Tribe: Building Community in Triathlon with Ray Lake and Zan Larsen 50:49

5M ago50:49

50:49

The Tribe Within the Tribe: Building Community in Triathlon with Ray Lake and Zan Larsen Ever wonder how elite athletes stay motivated, overcome setbacks, and achieve long-term success? This week, we have Ray Lake and Zan Larsen, accomplished triathletes and members of Team USA. Hear their incredible journeys—from unique first races to representing…

1
BONUS: The Gift, the Grind, the Glory with Ian Williams 45:09

5M ago45:09

45:09

What do perseverance, resilience, and determination look like in action? Look no further than Ian Williams. This week, we're joined by the Ironman triathlete who faced life-threatening health issues, including heart problems and a kidney donation, forcing him to step away from the sport for 7 years. Now, he's back to share his incredible comeback s…

1
The Gift, the Grind, the Glory with Ian Williams pt. 1 1:12:34

5M ago1:12:34

1:12:34

What do perseverance, resilience, and determination look like in action? Look no further than Ian Williams. This week, we're joined by the Ironman triathlete who faced life-threatening health issues, including heart problems and a kidney donation, forcing him to step away from the sport for 7 years. Now, he's back to share his incredible comeback s…

1
Beyond the Marathons with Koryn High 58:38

5M ago58:38

58:38

After 17 years away from triathlons, Koryn High, a dedicated runner rediscovers her love for triathlon. She is the definition of resilient, determined, and focused. From her first triathlon experience in Japan to her recent sprint triathlon triumph, Koryn provides valuable insights into training, race preparation, and balancing multiple athletic pu…

1
Shining A Light Through Triathlon: Pastor Steve and Stephen Mayo 1:02:59

6M ago1:02:59

1:02:59

This week's episode brings a heartfelt and encouraging exploration of the intersection between faith and endurance. Pastor Steve Mayo and his son Stephen share how triathlon became a powerful tool for transformation in their lives and community. Pastor Steve's journey is one of resilience, overcoming health issues to complete his first sprint triat…

1
Bitten by the Tri Bug with Fernanda “Fer” Ruiz and Patrick McHenry 50:39

6M ago50:39

50:39

*First Timer Alert!* It’s no secret triathlon is contagious. In this unique first-timer edition, Fernanda “Fer” Ruiz and Patrick McHenry share their unique journeys into the world of triathlon. Hear how Fer went from newbie to Age Group National Championships while Patrick tackles his first triathlon. Together, they discuss their contrasting traini…

1
Redefining What's Possible with Chris and Nick Nikic 43:18

6M ago43:18

43:18

From sprint triathlons to Ironman glory, Chris Nikic's journey is a testament to relentless determination and incredible achievement. In this inspiring episode of Tri Beginner's Luck, Chris and his father, Nick, share the secrets to his success. Gain valuable insights into the importance of recovery, the power of positive thinking, and the unique c…

1
Embracing the Athlete Within with Mari Ruddy 52:57

7M ago52:57

52:57

Mari Ruddy, is not just a triathlete; she's also a writer, blogger, educator, LinkedIn coach, and author of the powerful book "Extreme Healing." She is a remarkable woman facing her third bout of breast cancer with incredible positivity and determination. Mari shares how she manages the side effects of her treatment, including fatigue and training …

1
Built for Battle with Leslie Battle 1:02:41

7M ago1:02:41

1:02:41

Ever wondered what it takes to become a 35-time national champion triathlete? In this inspiring episode, Leslie Battle, an Athena triathlete and a true inspiration, shares her remarkable journey. From overcoming adversity to representing Team USA on the international stage, Leslie proves it's never too late to chase your dreams, even if you start a…

1
No Risk In Trying: From Pool to Podium with Katie Zaferes 1:02:21

7M ago1:02:21

1:02:21

WE ARE BACK!!!!! It feels good to start the season with none other than Olympic triathlete and World Champion, Katie Zaferes! From her first race with her dad on Father’s Day to standing on the world stage, Katie’s journey is as inspiring as it is real. She shares the highs and lows of pursuing a professional triathlon career, balancing the demands…

1
Beyond the Race: Mission for a Diverse Triathlon Community with Megan Zablock 56:06

10M ago56:06

56:06

In our last episode before our summer break, we were honored to have Megan Zablock as our final guest. Megan is the new Manager of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access (DEIA) at USA Triathlon. She shared her experience participating in her first triathlon in Lake Geneva and then we delved into the important work she does as the DEIA Manager. …

1
I WILL. I CAN. I MUST with Hector L. Torres 42:27

11M ago42:27

42:27

Are you seeking a dose of inspiration to ignite your passion and perseverance? Look no further. Tune into the remarkable journey of Hector L. Torres on the 120th Episode of Tri Beginner’s Luck, and prepare to be truly moved. With an extraordinary tale of transformation, Hector’s venture from facing a life-threatening health warning at just 18, to b…

1
Path to Inclusive Triathlons with Kym Zest 1:02:10

11M ago1:02:10

1:02:10

In this week’s episode, we chat with Kim Zest, a beacon of strength and inclusivity in the triathlon community. As the dedicated race director for the YWCA Women's Triathlon, Kim narrates her remarkable transformation from an outsider to a pivotal figure championing diversity and empowering underrepresented athletes. This stirring dialogue seamless…

1
Generations of Grit with Mike and Bella Buenting 1:01:31

11M ago1:01:31

1:01:31

In this special Father's Day edition of Tri Beginner’s Luck, we welcome Mike and Bella Buenting, a father-daughter duo. Bella talks about how her father introduced her to triathlons at a young age, her early experiences in the sport including participating in Iron Kids races, her progression to collegiate competitions, and how triathlon has now bec…

1
Against All Odds with Caleb Prewitt 47:18

11M ago47:18

47:18

In this heartwarming episode, we learn more about the extraordinary journey of Caleb Prewitt, a 17-year-old triathlete with Down Syndrome, and his mother, Karen Prewitt. Witness how Caleb, with his mother's unwavering support, defies the odds by completing over 33 triathlons and one where he conquers crossing the finish line independently. This sto…

1
She Tris with Sarah Hays 52:02

11M ago52:02

52:02

Join us on this episode as we explore the journey of Sarah Hays, co-founder of She Tris, and her remarkable influence on the women's triathlon community. From her initial hurdles in the triathlon world, including a daunting first ocean swim and a challenging flat tire incident, to her triumphant return after focusing on her family, Sarah's story is…

1
Unity & Endurance: The Power of Sibling Bonds with Andrew and Jamie Fink 44:09

12M ago44:09

44:09

Sibling admiration is beautiful to witness. In this episode, Andrew and Jamie Fink show us exactly what it looks like. From their spirited upbringing in athletics to conquering their first triathlon races, follow their journey of perseverance, passion, and sibling unity. Andrew reveals his leap into triathlon with no prior endurance experience and …

1
Fueling the Montauk Legacy with Merle Mc Donald Aaron 44:06

12M ago44:06

44:06

Merle Mc Donald Aaron takes us on a journey where she recounts this iconic event, from its humble beginnings over 40 years ago to its vibrant present-day community, The RJA Memorial Mighty Montauk Triathlon. Listen in as Merle reflects on the past, present, and future of her triathlon race, revealing the secrets behind its success and the unwaverin…

1
Conquering Miles and Memories with Angela and Sedona Decint 52:06

1y ago52:06

52:06

Happy Early Mother’s Day to all the Moms and Mother Figures. Join us this week as Mother/Daughter duo Angela and Sedona Decint take us on an exhilarating journey through the highs and lows of their mother-daughter bond in the world of triathlon. From Angela's humble beginnings in 2007 to Sedona's collegiate club racing career, their story is one of…

1
Recover to Train with Jamal Davis 1:00:15

1y ago1:00:15

1:00:15

Jamal Davis shares his story, which is one of determination, growth, and the lessons he learned about structured training and recovery. He covers his experiences from basketball and team sports and how that brought him to triathlon. He also shares how he found community with Coffee Posse on Instagram live. Jamal shares mental strategies for overcom…

1
From Fear to Finish Line with Marguerite Madden 34:23

1y ago34:23

34:23

Join us for the latest episode of the Tri Beginner's Luck podcast! You won't want to miss this one as we sit down with the incredible Marguerite Madden, a tri force to be reckoned with. Marguerite transforms from a non-athletic individual to a fierce triathlete. We’ll dive into her training, including how she overcame her fear of swimming with the …

1
Making Waves with Casey Arendt 54:10

1y ago54:10

54:10

It’s time to swim in the waves with Casey Arendt on the Tri Beginner's Luck podcast! From her competitive swimming background to her journey into triathlon, Casey shares her experiences, including her first triathlon, her thrilling qualification for Worlds in the Aquabike event, and her unexpected challenges. Tune in with us and learn about Casey’s…

1
Thriving Through Trials with Josh Banks 58:25

1y ago58:25

58:25

TBL welcomes Joshua Banks to the podcast to share his inspiring journey of resilience and determination in overcoming adversity through triathlon. From building a bike in his daughter's memory to qualifying for the Ironman 70.3 World Championships, Joshua's tale is about courage, community, and the power of pursuing your passions in the face of har…

1
Coming in Hot with Haley Chura 1:13:10

1y ago1:13:10

1:13:10

It's getting hot here; Haley Chura must be in this episode! Haley had a great start to the year by participating in the RunDisney Dopey Challenge, where she won three out of four races and set a personal record in the marathon, bringing the heat. Later, she was given an incredible opportunity to be a wild card entry in the inaugural race of the T10…

1
Born To Be Champions with Karen and Donna Smyers 1:19:34

1y ago1:19:34

1:19:34

Sisters. Champions. Hall of Famers. Karen and Donna Smyers have made triathlon history again and again, and we are excited to welcome them to TBL! Karen Smyers, a professional triathlete for 26 years, has won the Ironman World Championship four times, as well as several other championship titles, including ITU, National Pro Champ, and Pan American …

1
Entering My Triathlon Era with Kelly Ransier 46:16

1y ago46:16

46:16

At TBL, we are all about the first-time finish line! And this week, we talk with beginner Kelly Ransier, who is ready to share her remarkable journey from being a novice in running and cycling to becoming a successful triathlete. Her story comes from Charleston, where she first stepped into the world of triathlons with her aunt by her side. Communi…

1
Tri Vibes with Delaware State Triathlon Team 1:04:53

1y ago1:04:53

1:04:53

Get ready for a journey filled with passion, unique experiences, and valuable lessons as we introduce you to the incredible athletes of the Delaware State University (DSU) tri team. Led by the unstoppable Coach Hannah Loftus Paoli, a triathlete extraordinaire and head coach for two years, the DSU Tri Team is a force to be reckoned with. Team Captai…

1
Tri with Heart with Kebby Holden 1:03:54

1y ago1:03:54

1:03:54

In this episode, Michanda kicks off Women's History Month with an exceptional guest, Kebby Holden, the founder of Coeur Sports. Coeur, which means heart in French, perfectly encapsulates Kebby's journey - a journey fueled by courage and a commitment to redefine the triathlon experience for women. Kebby, a competitive athlete who qualified to go pro…

1
Tri My Way with Attayah Ali Milton 42:08

1y ago42:08

42:08

Dive into something special with Tri Beginner's Luck! Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a newbie, we're all about embracing those unforgettable first-time moments. In this bonus episode, join Michanda as she chats with her Sorority Sister, Attayah Ali Milton, who recently conquered her first triathlon! After facing the challenges of the pandemic…

1
Triathlon Bonds with Clement and Jamila Allen 1:03:01

1y ago1:03:01

1:03:01

In this episode, Michanda connects with a father-daughter duo, Clement and Jamila Allen, who hails from Augusta, GA. Michanda finds common ground with her guests, especially since Clement teaches at her alma mater, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU). As they share their stories, it becomes clear that their triathlon journey is no…

1
Battling Fears, Creating a Legacy with Jordan Hunter 59:44

1y ago59:44

59:44

Dive into a legacy of impact with Jordan Hunter and Legacy Aquatics! As a USA Triathlon Level 1 coach and Navy veteran battling PTSD, Jordan's journey led him to create something truly remarkable. Legacy Aquatics isn't just a swim program; it's a haven where people conquer fears and embrace life skills, both in pools and open water. In just one yea…

1
Emancipated To TRI With LaToya Shauntay Snell 1:21:39

1y ago1:21:39

1:21:39

Celebrating this monumental 100th episode of Tri Beginner's Luck with a remarkable guest, Latoya Shauntay Snell, the Founder/CEO of Running Fat Chef. In this special episode, she shares her incredible journey as a sponsored multi-sport endurance athlete (HOKA Global Athlete Ambassador), mental health, and body inclusivity. Notably recognized by The…

1
Herstory Made: The Sensational Six pt.2 40:41

1y ago40:41

40:41

Herstory: The Sensational Six part two is here! We continue to lean into the remarkable journeys of Akila O’Grady, Annette Melecio, Jamie Dismuke, Nicole Harris, Tiencia James, and Zsa Zsa Porter as they share their experiences at the Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii. Don’t forget to leave a review, share it with your friends, and follow…

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