
Episode 52
On this Episode of Fulfillment Equation
As we wrap up our deep dive on Fulfillment Concept #1: Happiness vs. Fulfillment, I’m thrilled to welcome water woman, adventurer and ultra-endurance swimmer Catherine Breed to the podcast. Our conversation covers a breadth of topics from how the ocean is her safe space, the importance of surrounding yourself with people who support and inspire you, and breaking free from norms and limitations. As she says, “Whatever your pool, whatever your black line is that you’ve been following and not feeling fulfilled following it, maybe it’s time to go beyond that”.
Catherine reminds us that we get to do things. Not want to or have to, but get to. It’s a privilege. My favourite part of our conversation was after we’d built her equation and she realized she was fully living it. She describes how it’s not by chance and reminds us that fulfillment takes some effort, but it’s worth the work.
Of course, Catherine is an expert in the difference between happiness and fulfillment as it’s impossible to be happy every moment of a long-distance swim when you’re battling strong currents, white caps, frigid water, jellyfish and sharks. Yet as Catherine says, “my swims aren’t always fun or joyful, but they give me fulfillment”.
Together, we build Catherine’s equation: 12ff + 7S + 4n + 5W + g + 7SL
We GET To Do Things.
– Catherine Breed
About the Guest

Catherine Breed is a five-time world open water swimming record holder and two-time USMS record holder who has completed marathon swims across Lake Tahoe, English Channel, North Channel, Monterey Bay, Manhattan, and the California coast from the Golden Gate Bridge to Half Moon Bay.
She is currently training to swim the entire length of the California coast: a 900+ mile staged assisted adventure swim that will take place over 3 months.
Beyond these accomplishments, Catherine is also just an incredible human – determined, disciplined, resilient and adventurous. She’s passionate about healthcare and loves nature, skiing and time in her garden.
You can follow Catherine’s events at CatherineBreed.com and her non-profit at SeaDreamers.org.
Transcript
Transcript coming soon