Business of Endurance
Episode 8: In this episode, Claire Fudge is interviewed by co-host Charlie Reading. Claire, a dietician and high-performance nutritionist, shares her journey from growing up in a family-operated bakery to becoming an Ironman athlete and starting her own nutrition business. Her path took a dramatic turn following a severe accident that challenged her physical capabilities and reshaped her professional focus towards sports nutrition. Having completed 20 full Ironmans despite her injuries, Claire discusses the biggest mistakes in nutrition she observes among business professionals who are also endurance athletes. She emphasises the importance of personalised nutrition over following generalised diet trends and hints towards the future of nutrition with advancements like continuous glucose monitors and DNA testing. The episode also touches on the role of AI in creating personalised nutrition plans and the importance of kindness in making the world a better place.
Episode 9: In this episode, Charlie and Claire welcome Steve Parry, a former Olympic swimmer turned entrepreneur. The discussion traverses Steve’s unconventional entry into swimming after a childhood incident, his experiences competing against Michael Phelps, and his humble beginnings which led to an Olympic medal win. Steve shares insights on the significance of goal setting, both in sports and in business, and reflects on the learning opportunities that come from embracing personal development. The conversation also delves into Steve’s entrepreneurial ventures aimed at improving access to swimming lessons amidst a backdrop of public pool closures in the UK, emphasising the importance of swimming as a life skill. Moreover, Steve highlights his parenting goals, underscoring the importance of dedicating time and resources to being a good father. The episode concludes with Steve offering his perspective on setting comprehensive, meaningful goals that go beyond business and fitness, to include family and personal growth.
What I’ve Been Reading
In “A Book of Secrets: Finding Comfort in a Complex World,” Derren Brown, an internationally bestselling author, explores the theme of finding solace and growth during challenging times. Through thirteen compelling chapters, Brown embarks on a deeply personal journey, sharing experiences from his own life including childhood humiliations, the loneliness of tours, social anxiety at gatherings, navigating middle age, and the path to finding love. He candidly discusses moments of anger, frustration, loneliness, and loss, demonstrating how these difficult times can be opportunities for consolation, compassion, and meaningful growth.
Brown’s narrative is a testament to the idea that adversity is not just an obstacle, but a crucial part of life’s journey that can lead to the most significant rewards. His insights into human nature and resilience are further enriched by Brown’s wisdom, humanity, and kindness. This book not only serves as an extension of the themes explored in his “Showman” performance but also offers universal reflections on coping with the complexities of life, emphasizing the importance of embracing a full life over a merely “good” one. “A Book of Secrets” is both a thought-provoking read and a guide to finding unexpected solace in life’s tumult, making it a timely and invaluable companion for those navigating their own challenges.
What I’ve Been Watching
“Mark Cavendish: Never Enough” is an intimate and enthralling Netflix documentary that traces the extraordinary journey of Mark Cavendish, one of professional cycling’s most remarkable figures. From his meteoric rise to the pinnacle of cycling, achieving unprecedented success in the sport, to a heart-wrenching downfall marred by illness and injury, the film delves deeply into the trials and tribulations Cavendish faced. Yet, it’s his incredible comeback that forms the heart of the narrative, showcasing his undying resilience, determination, and passion for cycling. Through exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and personal stories, the documentary offers a comprehensive look into Cavendish’s life, both on and off the bike. It highlights the spirit of a champion who refuses to be defined by setbacks, revealing the complexities of his character and the relentless pursuit of greatness. “Mark Cavendish: Never Enough” is not just a sports documentary; it’s a powerful story of perseverance, love for the sport, and the unyielding desire to always push beyond the limits.
Tech I’ve Found Useful
Airalo is revolutionizing the way travellers stay connected. As the world’s first eSIM store, Airalo offers a seamless solution to the common problem of expensive roaming charges and the hassle of finding local SIM cards. With Airalo’s eSIM technology, travellers can easily download and install digital data packs for over 200 countries and regions, ensuring connectivity from the moment they land. Beyond providing a practical service, Airalo’s mission embodies a commitment to global data connectivity, aiming to liberate travellers from traditional roaming limitations.
Quote of the Week
“We are more often frightened than hurt; and we suffer more from imagination than from reality.”
– Derren Brown.
The Trusted Team
The ‘Moonshot’ mindset is about setting audacious, seemingly unreachable goals—just like JFK did when he challenged NASA to make a moon landing happen within a decade. This concept got a modern twist in the business realm by Astro Teller at Google X, where they aimed not just for a 10% improvement, but for a 10X leap forward.
Imagine the transformation when you shift your thinking from making incremental gains to achieving exponential growth. By adopting a Moonshot mentality, you set yourself apart. Approach every challenge with the belief that it’s solvable, even if the solution isn’t immediately clear. This shift in mindset isn’t just about thinking bigger—it’s about thinking differently. It’s the Moonshot Mindset that will redefine your business strategy and turbocharge your success, pushing you far beyond the ordinary.
We’ll be covering The Moonshot Mindset in our next Trusted Team workshop; if you’d like to find out more, drop us a line here.