The Science of Support: Dr. Stacy Sims on Community, Crisis, and Her Own Survival | EP3

In this powerful and intimate conversation, Rebecca Rusch sits down with renowned scientist and women's performance expert Dr. Stacy Sims. Together they explore the intersection of science, athletics, mental health, and what it means to be a woman pushing boundaries in male-dominated fields. From childhood curiosity to professional triumphs and personal struggles, this conversation dives deep into the reality behind public personas and the importance of vulnerability and support systems.Key Topics & Timestamps:00:04 - Introduction and mutual admiration between Rebecca and Stacy 01:52 - Discussion of public personas versus private realities 02:54 - Early life influences: The convergence of science and athletics 04:30 - Brain-body connection and the importance of hypothalamic function 07:11 - Breaking barriers in women's health research and COVID's impact on sex-based medicine 10:22 - Personal story of challenging gender norms in military careers 15:32 - Mental health struggles and rebuilding after crisis 24:52 - Creating a new path in academia and entrepreneurship 35:27 - Evolution from competitive athlete to advocate for purposeful movement 49:54 - Current challenges with international travel and work-life balance 53:18 - New project announcement: NextGen course focusing on puberty educationNotable Quotes:"We put on this thing to get through stuff, but the real person's behind it." - Dr. Stacy Sims“Do you think that growth has to come from these really deep, dark places? Like, do we have to get to that point?” - Dr. Stacy Sims “Because we are expected to put on a front and take everything stoically, people I don't think realize that we are actually human.” -Dr. Stacy Sims "By the nature of being human, we're not designed to be alone. And we're not designed to build the burden and hold that burden for everyone else." - Dr. Stacy Sims"If I'm going to get in the ocean and do a swim, I want to do it because it's fun and relaxing, not because someone's trying to swim over me and get out first." - Dr. Stacy SimsKey Takeaways:The importance of support systems in both professional and personal successHow mental health challenges can lead to transformative growthThe evolution from competitive athletics to purposeful movementBreaking down barriers in women's health research and educationThe value of vulnerability in leadership and advocacyLOVE THE SHOW? DON'T FORGET TO FOLLOW AND REVIEW THE SHOW! THANKS FOR LISTENING!Resources Mentioned:Dr. Stacy Sims' books and online coursesTED Talk: "Women Are Not Small Men"Follow Along:Connect with Dr. Stacy Sims:Website: https://www.drstacysims.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstacysims/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drstacysimsTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drstacysims Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-t-sims-phd/ YouTube:

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What’s the Rusch is a podcast about finding stillness and shedding the armor we wear to reveal the masterpiece within. Hosted by Rebecca Rusch—a seven-time world champion, Hall of Fame athlete, celebrated endurance icon, Emmy winner, and founder of the Athlete Operating System—the show takes listeners on a transformative journey with some of the world’s most accomplished individuals. Known as the "Queen of Pain" for her unmatched grit, Rebecca shifts the spotlight to a deeper truth: the most profound growth often comes not from what we achieve, but from what we let go of.    Inspired by Michelangelo’s insight in creating the statue of David by chiseling away everything that wasn’t David, Rebecca champions the art of shedding: shedding fear, baggage, and the armor we build to protect ourselves. Each episode delves behind the scenes of high achievers, exploring what they’ve had to lose to become whole. What identities have they outgrown? What vulnerabilities have unlocked their greatest triumphs? And what lessons can we take from their private battles to shed what no longer serves us?   With conversations navigating ancient wisdom, modern science, and personal revelation, What’s the Rusch redefines the boxes we’re put in, revealing the hidden versions of who people are and the powerful truths they carry. Rebecca’s own path—marked by extreme challenges and moments of vulnerability—sets the tone for uncovering the humanity behind the headlines.   This is more than a podcast—it’s an explorer’s guide to becoming your own masterpiece by pausing and removing everything that isn’t you. Through the stories of leaders you know and the truths you don’t, What’s the Rusch invites you to embrace the courage to shed your armor, redefine your identity, and navigate your own extraordinary and adventurous path.