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 tips for the ground crew, from packing essentials in the car, to pulling boats out of the water, and how...
Apr 17, 2024•51 min
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 newcomers. It's about the journey, the river, and the people you meet along the way. 🏞️What drives the MR340 pad...
Mar 27, 2024•41 min
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. ____ Want a quick way to shop for your 2024 MR340 experience? Check out my "What's on the boat?" list! A...
Sep 08, 2023•19 min
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 transform your 'break' into an essential component of your training regimen. Related Articles / References...
Aug 22, 2023•11 min
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 tangible effects on our physical capabilities. Additionally, Kim shares some mental distraction game...
Aug 16, 2023•19 min
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. Charles. Settle in, for this is one tale you wouldn't want to miss. Connect with Kim and Paddle Spor...
Aug 07, 2023•44 min
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 race plan, including nutrition, hydration, and sleeping arrangements. It's game on—let the adventure...
Jul 31, 2023•15 min
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 learned and strategies for success. From managing physical exhaustion and mental fatigue to balancing...
Jul 27, 2023•9 min
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: Instagram: @PaddleSportsLifestyle / @kimberlylpeek Kim's Amazon Storefront with links to favorite gear A...
Jul 25, 2023•15 min
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 things. Connect with Kim and Paddle Sports Lifestyle: Instagram: @PaddleSportsLifestyle / @kimberlylp...
Jul 21, 2023•8 min
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: @PaddleSportsLifestyle / @kimberlylpeek Kim's Amazon Storefront with links to favorite gear Paddle Spor...
Jul 19, 2023•16 min
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 indomitable spirit of the paddle sports lifestyle. Tune in as Kim shares the details of this adventure i...
Jul 17, 2023•19 min
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: Instagram: @PaddleSportsLifestyle / @kimberlylpeek Kim's Amazon Storefront with links to favorite gear Paddl...
Jul 13, 2023•13 min
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 Hump Day 5K went in this episode. Connect with Kim and Paddle Sports Lifestyle: Instagram: @PaddleSp...
Jul 11, 2023•7 min
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 gear Paddle Sports Lifestyle website and blog MR340: July 23-26, 2024 - https://mr340.org/ Buy Paddling...
Jul 06, 2023•8 min
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 gear Paddle Sports Lifestyle website and blog MR340: July 23-26, 2024 - https://mr340.org/ Buy Paddling ...
Jul 03, 2023•7 min
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 Sports Lifestyle: Instagram: @PaddleSportsLifestyle / @kimberlylpeek Kim's Amazon Storefront with link...
Jun 29, 2023•12 min
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 Storefront with links to favorite gear Paddle Sports Lifestyle website and blog MR340: July 23-26, 2024 - htt...
Jun 26, 2023•14 min
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 Paddle Sports Lifestyle website and blog Buy Paddling Shirts and Gift Items at the Paddle Sports Lifestyle...
Jun 22, 2023•8 min
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 Amazon Storefront with links to favorite gear Paddle Sports Lifestyle website and blog Buy Paddling Shirt...
Jun 20, 2023•13 min
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 favorite gear Paddle Sports Lifestyle website and blog Buy Paddling Shirts and Gift Items at the Paddl...
May 26, 2023•10 min
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 season, but there is a lot to savor when it comes to the journey. Kim reminds us that the real joy of...
May 17, 2023•16 min
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 transporting her kayak on her own and explains how it's allowed her to fully-embrace this new adventure. Men...
Apr 28, 2023•17 min
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 camping and more. Don't miss out on the fun and adventure that awaits! Mentioned in This Episode: htt...
Apr 17, 2023•13 min
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 Showdown Kayak Cart* Step Stool* *some items contain Amazon Affiliate links to help cover the cost of th...
Apr 17, 2023•10 min
If you're going to buy a kayak, and want to use it often, you need confidence that you can easily transport the kayak. The harder it is, the less likely you'll get on the water. Kim shares more stories from Canoecopia and explains how she decided on the Yakima Showdown Roof Rack system. At 5' tall, it's important to have a system that makes it simple to lift the kayak to load it onto her vehicle. Products mentioned in this episode: Hypothermia table Canoecopia Yakima Showdown (her car did not ha...
Apr 17, 2023•9 min
Finding the right kayak has been the most overwhelming part of Kim's early kayaking adventures. In this episode, she talks about her trip to Canoecopia in early March, the benefits of joining your local paddling club, the benefits of sitting in kayaks and seeing how they feel, the difficulties finding a kayak locally, and more. Companies and Links Mentioned in This Episode Canoecopia NRS Dagger REI Connect with Kim and Paddle Sports Lifestyle: Instagram: @PaddleSportsLifestyle / @kimberlylpeek K...
Apr 17, 2023•9 min
This podcast follows host, Kim Peek, as she prepares for the MR340, a multi-day, 340 mile paddle race along the Missouri River. As a complete newbie, Kim is training for this daunting adventure that only the experienced dare to tackle. Knowing she has a lot to learn in a short amount of time, Kim shares how she got herself "into this mess," and lets listeners know what to expect in coming episodes. Connect with Kim and Paddle Sports Lifestyle: Instagram: @PaddleSportsLifestyle / @kimberlylpeek K...
Apr 16, 2023•7 min
