Book "My Limitless Life" I Interview with Authors Karen Meades and Barry Finlay | Audio Signals Podcast With Marco Ciappelli

Guests: Karen Meades, Author https://www.amazon.com/My-Limitless-Life-Karen-Meades/dp/1068973102

Barry Finlay, Author https://www.barry-finlay.com

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Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society & Technology Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.marcociappelli.com

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This Episode’s Sponsors

Are you interested in sponsoring an ITSPmagazine Channel? 👉 https://www.itspmagazine.com/sponsor-the-itspmagazine-podcast-network

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Episode Introduction

Book "My Limitless Life" I Interview with Authors Karen Meades and Barry Finlay

Welcome back, storytellers and story lovers!

A new year, a fresh start, and more stories to share. After an intense 2024 filled with thought-provoking conversations, I took a little time in January to recharge, reflect, and prepare for what promises to be an even bigger and more exciting year of storytelling. Many episodes have already been recorded and are making their way into production, and I can't wait for you to hear them.

So, if you love stories—real or imagined—this is the place to be. Audio Signals is not just about storytelling; it’s about the storytellers, the people who craft, shape, and bring stories to life. And what better way to kick off 2025 than with a conversation about pushing limits, embracing adventure, and turning extraordinary experiences into words on a page?

For this first episode of the year, I’m joined by Karen Meades and Barry Finlay, co-authors of My Limitless Life.

Karen’s story isn’t just about endurance—it’s about the power of saying ‘yes’ to adventure. Years ago, she was a busy professional, a mother, and—by her own admission—far from an athlete. But when she signed up for a simple 5K race, something clicked. That one decision led to another, and then another. Before she knew it, she wasn’t just running local races—she was pushing herself into the most extreme environments on the planet.

From conquering 250-kilometer self-supported ultramarathons through the Amazon jungle, the Sahara Desert, and even Antarctica, to swimming from Alcatraz to San Francisco, Karen has consistently sought out the toughest physical and mental challenges imaginable. But she doesn’t see herself as extraordinary. She believes that anyone can take on big challenges, step by step—just as she did.

Her story is a reminder that limits are often self-imposed. That the difference between the impossible and the achievable is often just a willingness to try. And yet, life has a way of throwing unexpected twists. In recent years, Karen had to confront a new and very different challenge—one that forced her to reimagine adventure in a whole new way. But, as you’ll hear, she didn’t stop moving forward. She simply found a new path.

Barry, an accomplished writer and adventurer himself, helped bring Karen’s journey to life, weaving her experiences into a compelling book that’s as much about personal growth as it is about adventure. In our conversation, we explore what drives someone to take on seemingly impossible feats, how pushing boundaries can change the way we see the world, and what happens when life forces us to redefine our own limits.

Whether you’re looking for motivation, an adrenaline rush, or just a great story, this episode has something for you.

So, let’s jump in. Welcome to 2025, welcome back to Audio Signals, and here’s our first episode of the year—enjoy!

About Karen Meades Her story is nothing short of inspiring. From joining a running club for some “me time” to becoming the third Canadian woman to conquer the Racing the Planet/4 Deserts Ultramarathon Series, her journey is remarkable. Despite not seeing herself as athletic, Karen's feats in running, swimming, and navigating some of the world's toughest terrains are truly awe-inspiring.

Balancing a successful career as an accountant and executive with her adventurous spirit, Karen's professional achievements are equally impressive. She co-founded a health program in the North, raised an extraordinary daughter, and even married her husband in Antarctica.

After a medical diagnosis, Karen's resilience continued to shine as she embraced new passions like exploring the rugged New Zealand Alps on an e-bike, walking in the woods, and beekeeping. Her story, My Limitless Life, is a captivating read filled with humour, tension, and breathtaking scenes, encouraging readers to embrace challenges with courage and optimism.

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Resources

Get The Book: https://www.amazon.com/My-Limitless-Life-Karen-Meades/dp/1068973102

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For more podcast stories from Audio Signals: https://audiosignalspodcast.com

Watch the video version on-demand on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazine

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