Danielle Lewis, at the time this episode was recorded, was 40th in the Ironman World Rankings. Ironman is the ultimate test of mental toughness, so it was inspiring to learn that Danielle, like the rest of us mortals, has dealt with severe depression.

Danielle talked about illness, injuries and devastation that once led to her putting on 50 pounds and temporarily giving up on her goals. Ultimately, though, she made the decision that depression wasn’t going to rob her of her dream of being a world-class athlete.

Danielle and I found lots of commonality, including that we have both struggled to learn to swim. The difference here being that she's about twice as fast as I am, and given her recent breakthrough in the water, don’t be shocked if her Ironman world ranking rises fast in 2022.

TRIGGER WARNING: This conversation includes discussions of mental illness and disordered eating.

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This episode was presented by bambu werx, a Boulder-based company that creates sustainably sourced athletic apparel. Not only are product materials sources in an eco-friendly manner, bambu werx limits waste, practices Earth-friendly production, and uses recyclable materials in all its packaging. Check out 40000steps.com/gear to shop bambu werx's line of 40,000 Steps gear, and visit bambuwerx.com to learn more about all the amazing products they create - and how they create them.

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Catch me on IGTV (@40000_Steps) and Facebook Live at 11 a.m. CST every Tuesday. Join the discussion. Bring your own snacks.

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If you or someone you know would like to star on the podcast, or be interviewed on IGTV, email [email protected].

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