Paddle Sports Lifestyle: Finding Your Epic Adventure Through Kayaking and Paddling

We're diving into the heart and soul behind every successful river race—the ground crew—with special guest, Laura Milby. Laura is an experienced kayaker, ground crew member, and co-owner of Llama Racks, with her husband Ryan.   We talk about the intricacies of preparing for the MR340, from ensuring paddlers' goals are met to strategizing the nuances of river communication. Laura shares survival ti...

In season two of Paddle Sports Lifestyle, we are introducing you to the people and stories behind this epic endurance race. And, what a perfect kick off to the season: a conversation with Steve Schnarr and Scott Mansker!   A few highlights from this episode:    👥 There's a unique culture thriving within the MR340 community – one of support, generosity, and an endless supply of advice for newcomer...

It's not too early to start preparing for the 2024 MR340. In this episode, Kim shares what she will do differently for next year - and she provides an overview of her upcoming training plans. If you're in the Kansas City area, and are looking for someone to train with, please contact Kim at Kim AT IrisDigitalMediaGroup DOT com to connect with reliable training partners who value water safety. ____...

In this episode, Kim explores how taking a step back from rigorous training post-MR340 can be a catalyst for enhanced performance. She shares how diversifying interests and maintaining strong social connections can contribute to a robust mental resilience, setting the stage for a successful return to the water. Tune in to discover how to strike a balance between exertion and relaxation, and transf...

In this episode, we delve into the power of the words and how they shaped our experiences and perceptions during the challenging MR340. Kim talks about how they used the open-label placebo effect, where the mere belief in the benefit of a non-active substance or treatment can lead to actual improvements. This fascinating psychological phenomenon demonstrates the power of positive thinking and its...

The 2023 MR340 was not just a race; it was a heroic quest against the merciless elements, an epic saga of human resilience and determination that will be remembered for a long time. Join Kim as she relives the thrilling moments, and the trials and triumphs of her training partners, as they braved through unforeseen challenges as they made their way from Kaw Point, trying to beat the Reaper to St....

Race week has finally arrived and excitement is at fever pitch! If you are listening to this on Monday, July 31st, the team is busy dropping boats off at Kaw Point, ensuring the kayaks are positioned for the imminent 7 AM start on August 1st. This episode delves into the training activities that took place in the final 10-day stretch leading up to the race. You'll also get a brief overview of the...

Next week is RACE WEEK! After months of training, planning, and dedication, our group is primed and ready for the exhilarating challenge that lies ahead: the MR340. This isn't merely a race; it's a testament to human strength, endurance, and the indomitable spirit of camaraderie. The racers have each weathered their own storms of adversity during their preparation, transforming them into lessons l...

In this episode, we dive into the trials and excitement of The Freedom Race, a  63-mile race along the Lamine and Missouri Rivers. You'll hear about the unexpected challenge the racers faced - and the lessons learned along the way. The MR340 is just 3 weeks after the Freedom Race, and if you're listening when this episode goes live - ONE WEEK AWAY!   Connect with Kim and Paddle Sports Lifestyle: I...

In this episode, we dive into the mental aspects of training and explore why people willingly choose to take on difficult challenges like the MR340. We discuss the reasons why we push ourselves to the limit, the satisfaction that comes from overcoming those barriers, and the lessons we learn along the way.  Join us as we celebrate the human spirit and explore the profound beauty of taking on hard...

Join us for an adrenaline-fueled episode as we delve into the thrilling second day of the MR340 training trip that takes an unexpected turn and causes Kim to face some fears. We'll unravel the lessons learned from this experience, gaining insights into the importance of adaptability and contingency planning in the world of paddle sports.   Connect with Kim and Paddle Sports Lifestyle: Instagram: @...

Listen as Kim shares the good, the bad, and the ugly moments from a recent two-day training adventure through the heart of the MR340: a 124 stretch from Waverly to Cooper's Landing. From the moment the group launched, the training partners faced every obstacle the river threw at them. Through this intense training experience, they discovered the true essence of teamwork, perseverance, and the indo...

Join us as we relish in the simple moments of awe-inspiring sunrises, mesmerizing sunsets, and the magic of moonlit waters. In this episode, Kim talks about "The Longest Day," an Alzheimer's Association event that Paddle KC participated in with sunrise and sunset paddling events. She also updates listeners on some gear and camping discoveries.   Connect with Kim and Paddle Sports Lifestyle: Instag...

There's an informal 5K race each week that I've been too intimidated to show up at. My training partners pushed me out of my comfort zone by scheduling a planning meeting to discuss our next big training event immediately after the 5K paddle race. Everyone needs friends who have the enthusiasm and energy to tackle challenges and push their limits. This group is my kind of crazy! Hear how my first...

Amidst the disheartening experience of having people doubt me, I discovered incredible support and belief from two friends. Tune in to learn how I found my MR340 crew who will play a vital role in my race, offering assistance, support, and camaraderie.   Connect with Kim and Paddle Sports Lifestyle: Instagram: @PaddleSportsLifestyle  / @kimberlylpeek Kim's Amazon Storefront with links to favorite...

In this episode, I delve into the challenges faced when encountering doubts and strong opinions from strangers within the paddling community. Tune in for a conversation on overcoming judgment, finding strength from within, and celebrating the journey.   Connect with Kim and Paddle Sports Lifestyle: Instagram: @PaddleSportsLifestyle  / @kimberlylpeek Kim's Amazon Storefront with links to favorite g...

I thought it would be an excellent training activity, so I signed up for the Week of Rivers, a Paddle KC event where we planned to visit four rivers in four days. As we paddle through stunning scenery and soaked in the serenity of the waterways, we faced unforeseen obstacles that highlighted the need for some items I'll be adding to the gear my MR340 crew will carry.   Connect with Kim and Paddle...

As the wind picked up and the water became rougher, panic set in. This was my first race, and I almost quit!  In this episode, I'll take you through the highlights of the race, share all the things that went wrong, and how the struggles made me even more confident about the MR340.   Connect with Kim and Paddle Sports Lifestyle: Instagram: @PaddleSportsLifestyle  / @kimberlylpeek Kim's Amazon Store...

I'm getting faster! Find out how I made a big leap in my paddling speed in just one morning! Beating "Reaper Time" has been a big worry throughout this training process. I don't have the speed of a fancy boat, but my engine is getting stronger!   Connect with Kim and Paddle Sports Lifestyle: Instagram: @PaddleSportsLifestyle  / @kimberlylpeek Kim's Amazon Storefront with links to favorite gear Pad...

As our group gathers to launch our kayaks into the the Missouri River for our first 50 mile training run, a palpable mix of excitement and nervous anticipation fills the air. Find out what we learned from our first big adventure along the Missouri and the changes we will make going forward.   Connect with Kim and Paddle Sports Lifestyle: Instagram: @PaddleSportsLifestyle  / @kimberlylpeek Kim's Am...

Kim recently participated in Wear Your Life Jacket at Work Day, a campaign by the National Safe Boating Council. In this episode, she shares some insights from the day and discusses the importance of wearing your life jacket while boating, kayaking, or paddling.   Connect with Kim and Paddle Sports Lifestyle: Instagram: @PaddleSportsLifestyle  / @kimberlylpeek Kim's Amazon Storefront with links to...

Whether you're a seasoned paddler or just starting, this episode will help you discover the power of patience and how it can enhance your confidence and stamina on the water. Kim discusses the importance of a gradual progression in increasing distance in order to build strength and avoid injuries. But it's not just about reaching the finish line. The finish line is a blip on the timeline of your s...

You'll never get another "first time" when embarking on a new challenge. In this episode, Kim encourages us to live in the moment and savor the high points and the low points. You'll be encouraged to step out of your comfort zone, and use your "first timer" experiences to broaden your horizons, enrich your life, and create lasting memories. Kim also shares elation in finding a solution to transpor...

Today, we're discussing all things kayaking gear. Kim has taken a considerable leap into the world of kayaking, having secured a kayak, a paddle, and a roof rack system for easy hauling.   Now, we shift our focus onto building the perfect collection of kayaking gear. We'll dive into the must-have items for cold water paddling and safety, exploring hypothermia and self-rescue. We also discuss kayak...

It's time to pick up the new kayak! There's nothing like the anticipation of birthday presents, and picking up the kayak on Kim's birthday feels like the beginning of a new chapter. This episode reminds us that adventures come with struggles and that's part of the process. Listen as Kim continues to document her journey from rookie paddler to river racer.   Mentioned in this episode: REI Yakima Sh...