Rachel Pu on the Get Stoked Girls Podcast
- Rhianna Walzer
- Sep 25
- 10 min read
Updated: Oct 30
A conversation about resilience, representation, imposter syndrome, and the courage it takes to be a beginner.
Meet Rachel Pu — a multi-sport mountain athlete who uses her platform to inspire others to embrace new challenges, celebrate the joy of being a beginner, and amplify representation in the outdoors (@rachelpuu).
In this conversation, Rachel opens up about her journey in becoming a mountain athlete, sharing the challenges and triumphs of breaking into new disciplines like backcountry skiing. She discusses representation in the outdoors and the importance of creating inclusive spaces for women and people of color. Rachel reflects on overcoming imposter syndrome, navigating injuries, and finding motivation through both personal growth and lifting others up. She emphasizes the value of dreaming big, embracing the beginner stage, and using setbacks as opportunities to learn, all while inspiring the next generation to carve out their own space in the mountains.
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Becoming a Mountain Athlete
Rhi: You’ve built your life around human powered movement outdoors. Where did that passion begin for you?
Rachel: I did not grow up in a family that did any of the things I do now. I never skied, never ran, and I had never even gone camping until I was about 22. I had no idea what any of that involved. Growing up, I would see people doing incredible things outdoors like skiing and backpacking, and it all looked amazing but also intimidating. I assumed that since my family did not do those things, it was not something I could ever learn.
When your family isn’t into something, it can be hard to imagine finding your own path — after all, family is often your first teacher. It took me a long time to accept that it was okay not to have that background, and that I could explore it on my own. The shift came in my twenties, when I realized I wasn’t happy with what I was doing. Life felt dull, and nothing really excited me. That’s when I turned to the outdoors, hoping it might spark a sense of passion.
Rhi: Did one sport click first, or did they all come at once?
Rachel: I think people often see my journey as if I suddenly got into the outdoors and started doing everything, but for me, it was a slow, step-by-step process. At first, it was really intimidating and I felt embarrassed trying a lot of things.
I started with running because it felt natural. I had been a competitive athlete and running was a free way to stay fit. As I fell in love with it, I gained confidence and started dreaming about trying other things. Backpacking and skiing had felt impossible at first, but taking small steps and finding a welcoming community made it feel possible.
Rhi: When it comes to human powered movement in the mountains, what resonates most with you? What do you love about it?
Rachel: When I started exploring mountain sports by myself, I discovered a lot more passion than I expected. I realized I didn’t actually need someone to teach me. Learning from others and building community is powerful, but what really got me started was understanding that I could learn and figure things out on my own.
It isn’t always fun to do things alone, but it shows you that you can and that independence is incredibly empowering.
Rhi: Do you enjoy being a beginner? How do you feel about that stage of starting something new?
Rachel: I actually really enjoy being a beginner. At first, it can feel uncomfortable or even embarrassing, but I’ve learned that starting fresh is where growth happens. Being a beginner gives you the chance to explore without expectations, to make mistakes, and to discover what you enjoy. I’ve found that embracing that stage allows me to keep learning, keep challenging myself, and stay excited about trying new things.
Representation in the Outdoors
Rhi: When you were first getting into mountain sports, did you see other people who shared your background or looked like you?
Rachel: No, not at all. But honestly, when I first started my outdoor journey, it wasn’t something I was thinking about. I didn’t even notice at first because I was focused on being a beginner and just learning. It wasn’t until later that I realized there was an added weight to the fact that I didn’t see anyone who looked like me. I’m actually glad I didn’t realize it at the time, because it would have made starting out even more intimidating.
Looking back, I realize that not seeing people like me was part of the barrier. It wasn’t just about having a physical mentor, but also not seeing representation in media. Seeing other people who look like you and show how they started, what gear they use, and how they learned can be such an important part of beginning your own journey. For me, it took a while to recognize how much harder it made things not to see that representation early on.
I didn’t realize it at the time, but wanting to break stereotypes became a driving force. I want to show others they can do the same.
Rhi: Representation and inclusivity are such a big part of your platform as a content creator. Why is it so important to you to create inclusive spaces in the outdoors?
Rachel: People, especially young people on social media, are really impressionable. On one hand, I tell myself it is not that deep, we are just making silly videos, but the reality is social media has a big influence.
That is why representation is so important. When I was younger, not seeing anyone who looked like me in the outdoors made me feel like I didn’t belong. I never want anyone else to feel that way. The outdoors are for everyone, and I try to keep in mind that I am often speaking to a younger version of myself. That awareness is a big motivator for the content I create.
Rhi: How have you seen the outdoor industry improve and where is there still work to be done?
Rachel: There is progress being made, but very slowly, and I think change has to happen that way. Change takes time, and you don’t want it to feel forced. It’s a complicated topic for me because I sometimes joke about being a diversity hire. I know that some opportunities I get are maybe because of the color of my skin. From an outsider perspective, it might look unfair, but I see it differently.
I think part of change is the willingness of others, particularly white people, to take a step back and amplify voices that haven’t been heard. Historically, media has only shown one perspective, so change involves creating space for others. It doesn’t always feel fair in the moment, but in the bigger picture, it’s about leveling the field.
For me, rather than dwell on being labeled a diversity hire, I try to make the most of the opportunities I get. Whether or not that’s why I was chosen, I can still prove myself and use the platform to advance my mission, which is amplifying the voices and stories of other underrepresented groups. It’s a constant dialogue with myself, balancing imposter syndrome with the chance to make an impact.
Rhi: How do social media and community help drive change and create more inclusive spaces in the outdoors?
Rachel: People, especially everyday outdoor enthusiasts, want to see others they can relate to, real athletes, real stories, not just professional or spectacular feats. That demand helps push brands and communities to amplify diverse voices in a way that feels authentic rather than forced. I love that social media can highlight all kinds of experiences and abilities, showing that the outdoors are for everyone. It is inspiring to see that even everyday people can motivate others just by sharing their journey.
There is value in every story, and space for everyone.
Getting Into New Sports & Breaking Barriers
Rhi: Backcountry skiing can feel really intimidating with all the gear, skills, and safety knowledge required. How did you first get into it?
Rachel: It started with letting myself be a little delusional and thinking maybe I could be a backcountry skier. I had to accept being a beginner and embrace a little embarrassment, but I was never willing to be unsafe. Backcountry skiing is a delicate sport, and social media often only shows the glamorous parts, so I felt a responsibility to set a good example.
I also wanted a new challenge. I had only learned to ski three years ago, and backcountry skiing pushed me out of my comfort zone while giving me the solitude and quiet I love about being outdoors. I learn something new every time I go out, which makes it exciting and keeps me growing.
Rhi: What steps did you take to get into backcountry skiing? Did you take an avalanche course, research gear, talk to others, or figure it out mostly on your own?
Rachel: It was mostly a solo mission for me because I didn’t know anyone who backcountry skied at the time. It’s not an easy sport to get into. I spent a lot of time on Google and YouTube watching tutorials, gear reviews, and videos before I even rented my first pair of backcountry skis. Renting was key because the gear is so expensive and I wanted to make sure I really loved it before investing.
Taking an avalanche course was a crucial step because you should never venture into avalanche terrain without proper knowledge. I started on gentle slopes under 30 degrees, researched low-risk areas, and carefully checked conditions. I also practiced at resorts that allowed uphill skiing to get comfortable with my gear, movement, and technique in a safe environment.
My approach was scrappy and self-directed: research, practice, learn, and build confidence step by step.
Injury, Recovery & Identity
Rhi: Let’s talk a bit about injury if you’re open to it. You mentioned breaking your ankle in January. What has that recovery journey been like for you both physically and mentally?
Rachel: I am no stranger to injury. Three years ago, in my first season learning to ski, I shattered my heel and dislocated my ankle. I had surgery and now have five screws and a plate in my foot. Then last November, I suffered a stress fracture just before my first 50k from overtraining and not focusing enough on strength and injury prevention. Those experiences taught me that running and outdoor sports are about more than the activity itself. They require preparation, strength, and awareness.
As soon as I recovered from the stress fracture, I broke my ankle again. Mentally it was heavy, and I let myself feel sad and frustrated for a bit, knowing the big goals I set that year would be put on pause. After processing it, I shifted my mindset to focus on what I could do while injured, like upper body work, mobility, and learning from the experience. Physically my ankle has fully healed, though rebuilding strength, especially in my left foot, is a challenge. I know I will not be exactly the same athlete I was before, but I am approaching training more mindfully, paying attention to recovery, adjusting to my body’s signals, and embracing a more intentional approach as I return to racing.
Rhi: Since you injured your ankle skiing, do you find yourself thinking about that moment when you go back out? Has it affected your mindset on the slopes?
Rachel: I broke my ankle skiing in fresh powder when I hit a buried rock, so I am very timid skiing powder now. The fear is natural when coming back from any injury. I notice myself running more cautiously on trails, especially downhill, worried about rolling an ankle.
I think it is about finding the right balance. It is good to be a little cautious when you return because you do not want to rush and risk re-injury. At the same time, you have to accept that the sports we choose are inherently risky. Injuries happen, and that is part of the reality. For me, the risk is worth it because the experience and the fun I get from these activities make it worthwhile.
Creativity, Content & Imposter Syndrome
Rhi: Let’s shift to content creation and your role as a creator and entrepreneur. How did you get started, and when did you realize this could be a full-time career?
Rachel: I was really unhappy in the career I had after college. I graduated with an engineering degree and landed a corporate job in Colorado. At first, I was excited, having incredible outdoor access, but I quickly realized all I was doing was working or feeling burnt out from work. Everyone around me said that is just how adult life is. You work hard and you probably won't love your job. I refused to accept that.
I planned carefully, saved money, and had contigency plans. At first, when I tried social media as a career, it did not pay the bills. I was living in my car when I tried to find a "real job" again. Even with a degree from a top engineering school, I faced rejection after rejection. At the time, it was really discouraging, but now I see those no’s as a gift. They forced me to keep trying and ultimately made my social media career possible. Today I get to do what I love every day, and I feel incredibly lucky.
Rhi: What would you say your mission is and how would you describe the Rachel Pu brand?
Rachel: At its core, it’s about inspiring people to get outside, especially those who didn’t think they belonged there before. It’s about encouraging women, people of color, and other underrepresented groups to know that there is space for us. It’s also about showing people that if you feel stuck or unhappy, you don’t have to stay that way. There are more paths and possibilities than most of us are told.
My tagline of being “mediocre at a lot of things” is partly about not taking yourself too seriously. It’s a reminder that it’s okay to be a beginner, to laugh at yourself, and to embrace imperfection while still striving for growth.
Rhi: How does imposter syndrome show up for you, both in work and in the mountains, and how do you use it as motivation to keep going?
Rachel: It’s that feeling of diminishing your own accomplishments and questioning whether you belong. I haven’t conquered it and probably never will, but I try to use it as motivation. It starts with a little bit of delusion and faking it till you make it.
Recently I’ve realized that everyone else is dealing with some version of imposter syndrome. Seeing other women and people of color in mountain athletics confidently claim their space and achievements has been incredibly inspiring. They boldly say, “I belong here. I’ve worked hard. I am an incredible athlete.” That’s powerful and reminds me that I can claim my space too.
Confidence often starts by pretending until it becomes real.
Get Stoked Girls
Rhi: What advice do you have to get girls stoked?
Rachel: Dream big and believe in yourself. You have the power to create space, not just for yourself but for everyone who comes after you. Remember the younger version of yourself and all the people out there who feel like they don’t belong. Let your efforts break barriers, open doors, and make it easier for the next person. When your purpose reaches beyond just yourself, that’s where true motivation and impact are born.
