Listen "199. Rachel Popelka: The Trailside Doc on PT, Resilience, and A Life of Inspired Adventure"
Episode Synopsis
In this episode, I’m joined by my friend and athlete Rachel Popelka better known on Instagram as The Trailside Doc. Rachel is a remote physical therapist, an expedition adventure racer, and an ultra runner who’s carved out a life full of bold choices, resilience, and inspired adventure.We talk about her unconventional path into endurance sports, from starting with a 5K to finishing multi-day expedition races, and how she built a career helping athletes stay strong and recover smarter. Rachel shares candidly about her own health struggles, lessons from navigating chronic pain, and the power of positive affirmations, community, and connection with nature.We also dive into the unique PT model she’s pioneering working remotely with athletes to blend rehab, strength, and performance training into their everyday programming. I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is to have her integrated on an athlete’s “team,” collaborating with coaches and bringing PT into TrainingPeaks just like a workout.- - - - - - - - - - -A big thanks to our sponsors:RELEVATE by NeuroReserve: Go to www.neuroreserve.com/travismacy and code TRAVISMACY for 15% off RELEVATE by NeuroReserve: Core Dietary Nutrients for Lifelong Brain HealthHagan Ski Mountaineering- - - - - - - - - - -Purchase A Mile at A Time: A Father and Son’s Inspiring Alzheimer’s Journey of Love, Adventure, and HopeSubscribe: Apple Podcast | SpotifyCheck us out: Instagram | Twitter | Website | YouTubeThe show is produced and edited by Palm Tree Pod CoLife Coaching with Travis MacyAre you a middle-aged man looking for a wise and powerful teammate to support your expansive journey in work, family, athletics, and life? Are you ready to finally learn about yourself: what really makes you tick, what holds you back, and what personalized systems will optimize your performance and wellness? Let's work together!travismacy.com/coaching
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