Beyond the Finish Line: Hannah Dines on Communication, Mental Health, and the Power of Adventure

The Alchemy Pod with Karen Darke

Show Notes

Welcome to The Alchemy Pod — turning the unimaginable into reality. Join Adventurer, Paralympic Champion, Global Speaker, Author, Transformational Coach, and Mindset Architect – Karen Darke – as she hosts inspiring conversations with elite performers. In this episode, Karen is joined by trike cyclist and fellow Paralympian Hannah Dines, discussing the unique journeys that have led Hannah to her success and what drives her to continue pursuing her dreams.

Hannah Dines has not only competed in the Paralympic Games but has also become an influential voice on the importance of communication and overcoming internal struggles. In this episode, she opens up about her experiences with disability, depression, and the surprising paths that have led her to where she is today.

As the conversation unfolds, Hannah shares her belief that the real disability in life is the inability to communicate. Despite physical challenges, she argues that the power of language, voice, and expression can take people much further than physical abilities alone. This philosophy has been a guiding force in her journey, from the surgeries that enabled her to begin cycling, to the self-driven development that led her to compete as a Paralympian.

Hannah reflects on her own mental health challenges, describing her struggle with depression. Yet, she also believes that these struggles can be a source of motivation, pushing her to achieve amazing, meaningful things. She talks about an upcoming move to Costa Rica, acknowledging that even amidst exciting adventures, there are moments of doubt and emotional complexity.

Karen and Hannah dive deeper into themes of self-compassion, addressing the guilt many feel for taking time to rest or not being constantly productive. Hannah emphasizes the importance of doing what’s good for one’s body and mind, even if it means stepping back from the relentless pursuit of achievement.

As the episode wraps up, Hannah reflects on the power of adventure to transform one’s life. She shares how stepping out of her comfort zone led to profound personal growth, new friendships, and a deeper understanding of herself. Hannah's story is a testament to the idea that embracing challenges—whether big or small—can lead to unexpected and enriching outcomes.

"Adventure is just what you need to do... if you feel lonely and in a really dark place, it's about meeting people, living more, and being able to share your story."

Timestamps:

0:46 – Host Karen Darke introduces today's guest, Hannah Dines.

2:15 – Hannah discusses her theory of disability and the power of communication.

4:32 – Hannah’s journey to becoming a Paralympian, starting from her university days.

10:27 – Dealing with depression and how it fuels Hannah’s desire to achieve.

20:35 – The significance of self-compassion and rejecting guilt over rest and self-care.

31:54 – Hannah on finding balance between adventure and personal challenges.

38:28 – The importance of adventure and stepping out of comfort zones.

47:26 – Hannah’s reflections on the cyclical nature of life and the impact of personal growth.

Links:

Connect with Karen and the Alchemy Pod on Instagram.

Learn more about The Alchemy Pod here.

Keywords:

Paralympian, trike cycling, disability, communication, mental health, depression, cerebral palsy, adventure, self-compassion, personal growth, balance, Costa Rica, Karen Darke, Hannah Dines

Credits:

BLIMP and Thruhike Studios present

The Alchemy Pod with Karen Darke

Hosted by:

Karen Darke

Produced by:

Katherine van Hengel

Erica Mellon

Ian Morland

Karen Darke

Original Songs by:

Lucas William Gardner

Mixed & Edited by:

Ian Morland

Developed in association with:

Zach Carver

Liv von Oelreich

Untethered Productions