The Women's Race

Jackie Hering

The Women’s Race is a podcast dedicated to women’s professional triathlon—told from inside the field.

Hosted by professional triathlete Jackie Hering, the show brings you race breakdowns, behind-the-scenes insight, and honest conversations about what it really takes to compete at the highest level.

From tactics and training to the moments you don’t see on race day, this is a deeper look at women’s racing by someone living it.

Listen in PodNod RSS feed Show website

19 episodes
Updated Friday

Episodes19

Newest first

Friday · 1 hr 5 min
Injury Check-in with Holly Lawrence
In this episode, Jackie Hering and Holly Lawrence discuss Holly's journey, the challenges she has faced, and her perspective on racing and training. They also touch on the impact of setbacks and the importance of nutrition in athletic performance. The conversation covers race recaps, missed opportunities, race registration hassles, athlete training and development, group training and family life, group ride experiences, and race planning and qualification. The conversation covers post-Kona race plans, the importance of taking breaks, reflecting on past races and burnout, chasing the perfect race, and training camp plans and family considerations. Takeaways The importance of transparency and authenticity in sharing personal experiences The impact of setbacks on an athlete's mindset and motivation Race registration for athletes can be a cumbersome process Group training and family life can be intertwined for athletes Group ride experiences can vary in intensity and safety Importance of rest and recovery Chasing the perfect race Chapters 00:00 The Real Deal 01:29 The Passion Project 03:00 Ups and Downs 05:34 Dealing with Setbacks 08:18 Injury and Nutrition 17:51 Racing Insights 25:57 Race Recaps and Missed Opportunities 28:02 Race Registration Hassles 31:02 Athlete Training and Development 32:07 Group Training and Family Life 39:40 Group Ride Experiences 44:22 Race Planning and Qualification 46:32 Post-Kona Race Plans 47:22 The Importance of Taking Breaks 48:22 Reflecting on Past Races and Burnout 50:50 Chasing the Perfect Race 01:03:08 Training Camp Plans and Family Considerations
Monday · 1 hr 9 min
Olympic Hype with Taylor Spivey
Taylor Spivey, a consistent and experienced short-course triathlete, discusses her journey from childhood sports to becoming an elite triathlete. She shares her challenges, triumphs, and aspirations, highlighting the impact of coaching, training groups, and the pursuit of Olympic qualification. The conversation covers Taylor's journey to the Olympics, the challenges she faced, and her perspective on training, performance, and recovery. It also delves into the upcoming Olympics in LA and offers advice for overcoming setbacks and pursuing goals. Takeaways Consistency and adaptability are key to Taylor's success Olympic qualification and funding challenges have been significant hurdles in Taylor's career Olympic qualification and preparation involve unique challenges Balancing relaxation and mental well-being is crucial for performance Overcoming setbacks and pursuing goals require resilience and determination Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Taylor Spivey 01:37 Early Years and Introduction to Triathlon 03:35 Transition to Triathlon and First Bike 06:16 Studying Abroad and Introduction to Triathlon Training 07:36 Coaching and Training Groups 08:53 Olympic Aspirations and Funding Challenges 20:58 Olympic Qualification and Tokyo Olympics Experience 33:23 Qualification for Paris Olympics and Racing Focus 35:29 Olympic Qualification and Preparation 36:15 Challenges of the Olympic Experience 37:09 Impact of Media and Redundant Questions 38:23 Challenges of Staying in the Olympic Village 39:01 Performance and Recovery Strategies 40:17 Post-Olympic Reflection and Recovery 48:16 Qualification Process for Upcoming Olympics 50:11 Training and Racing Challenges 57:16 Perspective on Age and Experience 01:01:07 Overcoming Setbacks and Pursuing Goals 01:03:15 Importance of Relaxation and Mental Balance
July 24 · 1 hr
Ironman Champion Paula Findlay
Paula Findlay returns as an Ironman champion, sharing her experience and insights from Ironman Lake Placid. She discusses her expectations, the challenges of the marathon, bike dynamics, nutrition, and her training and preparation for the event. The conversation covers various topics including training, preparing for triathlons, the role of supportive partners, balancing training and family, mental preparation for Kona, race planning and auto-qualification, post-race reflection, race scheduling and recovery, training camp and future plans, mindset for 70.3 races, and recovery and gratitude. Takeaways Embracing longer bike rides and intervals led to a successful Iron Man experience. Balancing intensity and rest in training contributed to improved performance and enjoyment. Nutrition and hydration play a critical role in sustaining energy and performance during an Iron Man race. Training with pros can significantly improve performance Balancing training and family support is crucial for success Chapters 00:00 Return of the Iron Man Champion 02:16 Expectations vs. Reality 03:15 The Iron Man Experience 06:14 The Marathon Struggle 15:45 Bike Dynamics and Nutrition 28:14 Training and Preparation 31:41 Training with Pros 32:19 Preparing for Triathlons 32:51 Supportive Partners 33:13 Balancing Training and Family 34:28 Mental Preparation for Kona 35:06 Race Planning and Auto-Qualification 36:21 Post-Race Reflection 37:48 Race Scheduling and Recovery 38:13 Training Camp and Future Plans 48:33 Mindset for 70.3 Races 57:11 Recovery and Gratitude
July 17 · 1 hr
Ironman Lake Placid & Personal Updates with Alice Alberts
The conversation covers a special personal news announcement, race dynamics and training, and a detailed overview of the Lake Placid course, including its challenges and unique features. The conversation delves into the dynamics of Ironman races, discussing the challenges and strategies involved in the bike course, and the decisive nature of the run. It also explores the unpredictability of race outcomes and the impact of various factors on performance. The conversation delves into the challenges of managing and recovering from injuries as a professional athlete, highlighting the impact on training and competition. It also explores the importance of caution and proactive measures in dealing with physical setbacks. Takeaways Pregnancy journey Race dynamics Course challenges Iron Man race dynamics Predicting race outcomes Injury management Professional athlete challenges Chapters 00:00 Lake Placid Course Overview 22:19 Iron Man Race Dynamics 29:13 Bike Course Challenges and Strategies 36:19 The Decisive Run 43:10 Injury Management and Recovery
July 15 · 1 hr
Roth Champion Alanis Siffert
Alanis Siffert shares her journey from swimming to triathlon, her training with Brett Sutton, and her experience at the Roth race. She emphasizes the importance of training by feel and the impact of the crowd on her performance. The conversation covers topics such as training, nutrition, mental strength, and future plans. Alanis shares insights on her training regimen, nutrition during training and racing, mental preparation, and her future racing plans. Takeaways Training by feel Impact of crowd on performance Nutrition and training are tailored to the demands of racing. Mental strength and positive self-talk are crucial for endurance racing. Chapters 00:00 From Swimming to Triathlon 07:40 Training with Brett Sutton 15:20 The Roth Race Experience 31:27 Training and Nutrition 33:05 Mental Strength and Confidence 44:23 Future Racing Plans 46:56 Training Environment and Mindset 55:11 Mental Preparation and Self-Talk
July 10 · 1 hr 2 min
Olympian to 5th in Kona with Lisa Perterer
Lisa Perterer, a three-time Olympian from Austria and 2025 5th place Ironman Kona finisher, shares her journey from short course to long course racing, highlighting her transition, challenges with nutrition and training, her Kona race experience, and her struggles with Iliac artery surgery and current challenges. The conversation covers Lisa's challenges, coaching, training, common mistakes in training, mental toughness in racing, race planning and preparation, and rapid fire questions. Takeaways Transitioning from short course to long course racing Challenges with nutrition and training The Kona race experience Struggles with Iliac artery surgery and current challenges Mental toughness is a crucial aspect of racing, especially in Ironman events. Coaching and training require a balance between personal and professional commitments. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Short Course Racing 15:59 Nutrition and Training Challenges 25:51 Iliac Artery Surgery and Current Challenges 31:12 Challenges and Decisions 37:27 Common Mistakes in Training 48:26 Race Planning and Preparation 55:50 Rapid Fire Questions
July 3 · 56 min
USA Rising Star Lydia Russell
Lydia Russell shares her journey from swimming to triathlon, her college experience, and transition to 70.3 racing. She discusses her challenges, injuries, and the learning curve of longer distance racing. Lydia's return to racing after a collarbone injury and her impressive performance at 70.3 Happy Valley are highlighted. Lydia reflects on the realization that personal fulfillment is not solely dependent on external achievements, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and contentment. She shares her experience of competing in triathlons and the unexpected rewards it has brought to her life. The conversation also delves into her recent races, the challenges she faced, and her future plans in the sport. Takeaways Transition from swimming to triathlon Challenges of longer distance racing Return to racing after injury Impressive performance at 70.3 Happy Valley Self-awareness and contentment are essential for personal fulfillment Triathlon competition has brought unexpected rewards to Lydia's life Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Training 05:13 Short Course Racing Challenges 11:05 First 70.3 Race Experience 19:45 Collarbone Injury and Recovery 51:28 The Joy of Cooking in Her Own Kitchen
June 29 · 1 hr
Catching up with Emma Pallant-Browne
Jackie Hering sits down for a chat with Emma Pallant- Browne, where she shares her journey as a professional athlete, mother, and the challenges of balancing training and motherhood. She discusses her transition into motherhood, the impact on her athletic career, and the mental and physical challenges she faced during pregnancy and postpartum. Emma also reflects on her 70.3 racing career and her future goals in running and triathlon. Emma discusses her passion for racing and the significance of World Champs, her coaching activities, and the impact of motherhood on her perspective of success. She also shares her love for training and watching her son's development. Takeaways Motherhood and professional sports can coexist Balancing training and motherhood requires careful planning and adjustments Mental and physical challenges during pregnancy and postpartum Reflection on 70.3 racing career and future goals in running and triathlon Passion for Racing Coaching and Community Development Motherhood and Success Training and Parenthood
June 26 · 1 hr 1 min
Resilience & Celebrating a podium with Lisa Becharas
In this episode, Jackie Hering introduces the theme of resilience in endurance sports, focusing on the journey of professional triathlete Lisa Becharas. The conversation covers Lisa's triathlon beginnings, early challenges, professional debut, injuries, surgeries, race strategy, competition dynamics, and nutrition for performance optimization. Throughout the discussion, the theme of resilience is evident in Lisa's journey, highlighting her ability to overcome setbacks and challenges in her athletic career. Lisa Becharas shares her race day experience, podium finish, training challenges, nutrition and recovery insights, coaching and consistency, racing strategy and goals, and the importance of travel and training partners in her triathlon journey. Takeaways Resilience is a key attribute in the journey of a professional triathlete, as demonstrated by Lisa Becharas. Nutrition and race strategy play a crucial role in optimizing performance and endurance in triathlon competitions. Race day surprises can impact performance Consistency and coaching play a crucial role in training Racing strategy and goals are essential for success Chapters 00:00 Resilience in Endurance Sports 08:38 Professional Triathlon Debut and Lessons Learned 23:11 Race Strategy and Competition Dynamics 31:02 Nutrition and Performance Optimization 38:03 Training and Racing Challenges 53:07 Racing Strategy and Goals 01:00:03 What I'm Loving right now
June 19 · 55 min
We're Going to Kona with India Lee
The Women's Race Podcast features a candid conversation between host Jackie and guest Indie Lee, covering Indie's triathlon journey, recovery after Ironman Hamburg, mental struggles, race day experiences, public image challenges, and training adjustments for future races. The conversation delves into the impact of public perception, managing expectations, and the transition to 70.3 racing. The conversation covers a range of topics including training routines, track workouts, dealing with setbacks, defining success in racing, and balancing triathlon with personal life. The speakers also discuss the appeal of track workouts, training support, and motivation, as well as managing comparison and self-focus. Additionally, they explore the challenges of swimming and training intensity, coping with frustration, and self-reflection. The conversation concludes with a focus on defining success in Kona and enjoying time with kids. Takeaways Navigating the ups and downs of professional racing The impact of public perception on athletes Balancing training intensity and enjoyment The appeal of track workouts Managing comparison and self-focus Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Women's Race Podcast 06:14 Race Day Experience at Ironman Hamburg 11:17 The Impact of Race Results on Future Goals 17:16 Recognizing the Need for Recovery and Reset 23:31 Struggles with Public Image and Social Media 29:12 The Nature of Breakout Performances and Expectations 34:57 Track Workouts and Training Preferences 40:13 Planning and Commitment to Training 46:07 Maintaining Perspective and Consistency 52:28 Balancing Triathlon and Personal Life 57:41 Managing Comparison and Self-Focus
June 10 · 1 hr 4 min
Cultivating a Winning Mindset with Solveig Lovseth
The Women's Race Podcast features an interview with Solveig Loveseth, an Olympian and world champion, discussing her recent performance at Ironman Hamburg. Solveig reflects on her preparation, race strategy, and performance, providing insights into her training, nutrition, and the challenges faced during the race. The conversation delves into the details of her bike ride, transition to running, and the physical and mental challenges encountered during the race. Solveig shares her struggle during the race, the intense battle to reach the finish line, and the impact of winning on her competitive mindset. She discusses the freedom and independence she enjoys as a professional athlete and reflects on life after winning. Solveig also shares her upcoming races and goals, her thoughts on family and future plans, and her appreciation for friends and family. Takeaways Insights into professional triathlon training and race preparation Understanding the physical and mental challenges of an Ironman race: The mental and physical struggle during a race can be intense and challenging Winning a race can have a significant impact on an athlete's competitive mindset and motivation Professional athletes enjoy freedom and independence in their training and race choices Life after winning a major race can bring about new perspectives and priorities Family and future plans play a significant role in an athlete's life, and appreciation for friends and family is important Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Women's Race Podcast 08:09 Bike Ride and Nutrition Strategy 15:22 Transition to Running and Performance 30:53 The Race Struggle 36:22 The Finish Line 42:32 Life After Winning 48:19 Upcoming Races and Goals 57:16 Family and Future Plans 01:02:32 Appreciation for Friends and Family
June 5 · 1 hr
Triathlon and Motherhood with Skye Moench
The conversation covers the challenges and successes in triathlon, the impact of nutrition and fueling on performance, the evolution of women's racing, misconceptions about pro triathletes, and parenting advice and experiences. The discussion provides insights into the world of triathlon, the experiences of pro athletes, and the intersection of motherhood and personal growth. Takeaways Balancing motherhood and professional athletics The impact of reduced training hours on performance Nutrition and fueling impact performance Challenges and successes in triathlon Parenting advice and experiences Chapters 00:00 Chattanooga 70.3 and Motherhood 05:57 Identity and Motherhood 10:59 Pressure and Expectations 18:01 Career Progression and Sponsorship 26:45 Breakthrough Race and Performance Improvement 32:37 Triathlon Challenges and Fueling 53:28 Misconceptions About Pro Triathletes
May 29 · 1 hr 4 min
Going Long with Grace Thek
The podcast episode features a conversation between Jackie Hering and Grace Thek, focusing on post-race recovery, race performance, decision-making for race participation, and the impact of participating in the T-100 series. The discussion also delves into the transition to full distance racing and the challenges and learnings from the racing experiences. The conversation provides insights into the professional triathlete lifestyle, race experience and performance, and the challenges of triathlon racing. The conversation delves into the freedom of choice and control that long course racing offers, as well as the financial reality of being a professional triathlete. It explores the benefits of race selection and the challenges of managing finances and sponsorships in the sport. Takeaways Professional Triathlete Lifestyle Race Experience and Performance Challenges of Triathlon Racing Freedom of choice and control Financial reality of pro triathlon Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Labor of Love 08:58 Approach to Kona and Race Expectations 14:03 Decision-Making for Pro Series Participation 19:55 T-100 Series Experience and Impact 24:49 Transition to Full Distance Racing 34:15 Freedom of Choice and Control
May 22 · 1 hr 1 min
Overcoming with Penny Slater
The podcast episode features host Jackie Herring and guest Penny Slater, an Australian professional triathlete. The conversation covers Penny's journey into triathlon, her experience with RED-S, racing and health challenges, and considerations for athletes in racing and training. The discussion highlights the importance of consistency in training and racing, the challenge of balancing performance and health, and the impact of sponsorship and financial considerations on an athlete's career. The conversation covers topics such as strategic race selection, the impact of race dynamics on athlete performance, the coverage of women's races, the T100 and its appeal to short course athletes, training mentality, nutrition, favorite and least favorite Ironman courses, advice for young female triathletes, and personal interests and hobbies. Takeaways Consistency in training and racing is crucial for long-term success Balancing performance and health is a challenge for professional athletes The impact of sponsorship and financial considerations on an athlete's career Strategic race selection in the pro series Impact of race dynamics on athlete performance Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 09:31 Penny Slater's Experience with RED-S and Research 18:25 Penny Slater's Racing and Health Challenges 32:18 Considerations for Athletes in Racing and Training 37:19 Strategic Race Selection 47:29 Training Mentality and Nutrition 54:19 Favorite and Least Favorite Ironman Courses 59:34 What I'm Loving Right Now
May 15 · 26 sec
Lasting Power with Holly Lawrence
Most athletes peak early and then struggle to sustain that level—Holly Lawrence’s journey proves otherwise. From winning her first 70.3 World Championship in just her second year to battling injuries, motherhood, and the mental toll of high-level racing, Holly reveals how her relentless mindset keeps her in the game and thriving. If you think success in triathlon is just about talent and early wins, think again. Holly’s story challenges you to rethink longevity, resilience, and passion in this candid conversation, you'll discover: The surprising truth behind Holly’s rapid rise and how she stayed motivated through setbacks. The mental shift that transformed her perspective from just racing to truly enjoying the sport again. How motherhood has changed her approach to training, racing, and staying mentally strong. The unique culture behind the PTO’s T100 series and why she feels so supported there. Practical insights on balancing family life with elite competition without losing joy or motivation. We break down Holly’s evolution from a naive young athlete to a seasoned pro with a new perspective—fueled by gratitude, realistic goals, and a love for the process. Her honest reflections on injury, burnout, and redefining success offer valuable lessons for any athlete facing the ups and downs of a long career.Why does this matter? Because Holly’s experience proves that peak performance isn’t limited to the early years. With the right mindset, support system, and a love for the sport, longevity becomes a reality—along with fulfillment beyond trophies. Whether you're a professional athlete or a passionate amateur, her journey inspires you to keep going, keep improving, and enjoy every step.Perfect for endurance athletes, aspiring pros, parents juggling sport and family, or anyone seeking motivation to sustain a lifelong passion—this episode is a masterclass in resilience, perspective, and staying true to what drives you. Tune in and rediscover why the love of triathlon can last a lifetime.
May 13 · 7 min
The Winners Circle w/ Grace Alexander
Episode 1 of the Winners Circle! Each week we will highlight the women who took the tape over the weekend by sharing their account of the race. Hope you enjoy! This week: Grace Alexander's unexpected win at Gulf Coast 70.3 showcases the power of resilience and mindset. When the swim was cut, Grace adapted, turning challenges into triumphs. Discover how she managed her mental game, navigated competitors, and stayed steady through tough conditions. This episode is perfect for athletes and anyone facing big goals under pressure. Join us to see how obstacles can become your greatest victories.
May 8 · 58 min
Entering Middle Distance & Motherhood with Sophie Evans
The podcast features a conversation between host Jackie Hering and professional triathlete Sophie Evans, focusing on Sophie's transition to middle distance racing and her experiences as a new mom. The discussion covers Sophie's early career, challenges of short course racing, and the considerations of long course racing. It also delves into Sophie's experience at the Valencia 70.3 and her preparation for the T100 Spain. Additionally, the conversation explores the balance of parenting and training for both Sophie and her husband, who is an ultra runner. Takeaways Transitioning to middle distance racing after a successful career in short course racing Challenges and considerations of balancing parenting and professional triathlon training Chapters 00:00 Introduction to The Women's Race Podcast 06:35 Consideration of Long Course Racing 14:04 Experience at Valencia 70.3 20:22 Parenting and Training Balance 55:27 Joy in Family Activities
May 1 · 54 min
Ironman Success is Finding Consistency with Hannah Berry Ep. 2
In this episode of the Women's Race podcast, host Jackie Hering interviews long course triathlete Hannah Barry. They discuss strength training, Hannah's background, her journey to becoming a pro triathlete, and her approach to racing. They also touch on the importance of consistency, mindset, and race day strategies. The conversation covers the dynamics of a race, race strategies, and the challenges of balancing professional racing with family planning. It also delves into the changing landscape of women's racing and the evolving attitudes towards motherhood in the sport. Takeaways Consistency in racing is valued over a single good race. Listening to the body and paying attention to how one feels is crucial on race day. Race dynamics and strategies Balancing professional racing with family planning Changing landscape of women's racing and attitudes towards motherhood Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Strength Training 05:57 Injuries and Recovery 24:37 Mindset and Race Day Strategies 47:24 Balancing Professional Racing with Family Planning
April 25 · 59 min
Inside Elite Triathlon with Paula Findlay / The Women's Race Ep. 1
The Women's Race podcast is introduced by host Jackie Hering, who shares her excitement and purpose for the podcast. The discussion then delves into the gender disparity in race coverage, highlighting the need for more focused coverage on women's racing. The conversation also explores race experience and preparation, shedding light on the challenges and strategies of professional triathletes. The conversation covers various themes including the Ironman competition, depth of field in women's racing, navigating unplanned outcomes, upcoming races and preparations, 'What I'm Loving Right Now', and creatine gummies and training. The discussion delves into predicting winners, the impact of the pro series, longevity and injuries in the sport, comparison with men's racing, financial support and travel, factors affecting depth of field, adapting to unplanned situations, managing expectations, flexibility in race planning, race planning and schedule, course familiarity vs. new challenges, training and race preparation, and the benefits of creatine and muscle development. Takeaways Gender disparity in race coverage Challenges and strategies of professional triathletes The impact of the pro series on race planning and longevity in the sport The importance of flexibility and adaptability in navigating unplanned outcomes The significance of course familiarity and new challenges in race preparation Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Women's Race Podcast 31:16 The Ironman Competition 36:24 Depth of Field in Women's Racing 43:39 Navigating Unplanned Outcomes 50:27 Upcoming Races and Preparations 55:49 What I'm Loving Right Now

The Women's Race

Injury Check-in with Holly Lawrence

Olympic Hype with Taylor Spivey

Ironman Champion Paula Findlay

Ironman Lake Placid & Personal Updates with Alice Alberts

Roth Champion Alanis Siffert

Olympian to 5th in Kona with Lisa Perterer

USA Rising Star Lydia Russell

Catching up with Emma Pallant-Browne

Resilience & Celebrating a podium with Lisa Becharas

We're Going to Kona with India Lee

Cultivating a Winning Mindset with Solveig Lovseth

Triathlon and Motherhood with Skye Moench

Going Long with Grace Thek

Overcoming with Penny Slater

Lasting Power with Holly Lawrence

The Winners Circle w/ Grace Alexander

Entering Middle Distance & Motherhood with Sophie Evans

Ironman Success is Finding Consistency with Hannah Berry Ep. 2

Inside Elite Triathlon with Paula Findlay / The Women's Race Ep. 1