In this episode of the No Fixed Agenda podcast, Kevin "Houda" McDonald, the race director of the Trans Rockies stage race, joins Jeff and Omar for an insightful conversation. The episode covers a wide range of topics including the logistics and unique experiences of multi-day stage races, Houda's personal stories from years in the racing industry, and a discussion on the Canadian perspective of the American election system.

00:00 Introduction to No Fixed Agenda Podcast

00:24 Meet Kevin Hoda McDonald

02:34 CrossFit and Fitness Talk

05:29 Kevin's Journey to San Diego

05:56 The Concept of Stage Racing

13:34 Challenges and Logistics of Stage Racing

25:28 Funny Stories from Stage Races

31:57 Community and Relationships in Stage Racing

33:36 Pregame Pep Talk and Team Unity

34:13 Challenges Leading to the Final Year

34:39 Cost and Logistics of Stage Races

36:19 The Popularity of Shorter Stage Races

37:26 Creating a Unique Race Experience

38:46 Community and Connection in Racing

44:10 The New York City Marathon Experience

47:37 High Rocks: A New Fitness Challenge

58:38 Canadian Perspective on U.S. Elections

01:03:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Paul Greer, a former Olympic track and field trialist, author, and long-time coach joins the show. Greer shares stories about his athletic journey, including his experience with Olympic trials, the significance of mental and physical training, and his iconic 4-minute mile achievement. He offers insight into his recently published book 'Going the Distance,' which compiles his 250 fitness tips and life lessons. The conversation underscores themes of motivation, resilience, visualization, and the importance of community in sports and personal development.

00:00 Introduction to the No Fixed Agenda Podcast

00:23 Movie Confusion: That'll Do Pig

01:14 Romantic Memes and Call Me Maybe

02:12 Interview with Paul Greer: Running and Sponsorship Stories

08:16 Paul Greer's Background and Family History

18:16 Journey to Breaking the Four-Minute Mile

23:26 Olympic Trials and Sponsorship Challenges

31:51 San Diego Track Club and Coaching Career

32:02 Journey to Presidency

32:15 Creating Running Opportunities

33:36 Unexpected Leadership

35:15 Coaching and Future Plans

36:45 Introduction to 'Going the Distance'

37:39 Writing and Publishing Process

46:23 Visualization and Mental Preparation

54:49 Life Lessons and Coaching Philosophy

01:01:17 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this engaging episode of the No Fixed Agenda podcast, hosts and their special guest Jen Rutt dive into a collection of wild and unpredictable stories. From an unexpected bird invasion involving 700 birds, a hair-raising job-related scare after rehab, to a near-fatal underwater workout incident, the conversation is full of surprising and intense moments. Jen shares her own captivating near-drowning experience and how it led to an interesting twist in her personal life.

00:00 Introduction to the No Fixed Agenda Podcast

01:18 Random Thoughts and Special Guest Introduction

04:31 Jen's Crazy Story: Near Drowning Experience

07:57 Jeff's Wild Bird Invasion Story

19:33 Omar's Turn: Fresh Out of Rehab

19:42 A Fresh Start After Rehab

20:04 Temp Agency Job at a Military Contract

21:26 Facing Job Insecurity

21:48 A Prayer Answered

23:47 Workplace Tensions and Threats

26:26 Reflecting on Relationships

27:54 A Dark Childhood Memory

28:02 Growing Up in a Tough Environment

29:43 Smuggling and Addiction

32:35 Dealing with Overdoses

33:43 Coping with Trauma

35:55 Wrapping Up with Reflections