Stories from the Water
Where land meets water, an invitation lingers—not just between elements, but between versions of yourself. You could remain on shore—where it's safe, familiar, predictable. Or you could cross into the unknown.
Stories from the Water is where we dive into the courage it takes to begin, the resilience that keeps us moving forward, and the wisdom that only emerges in the space between.
If you have ever stood at the edge of a body of water and wondered what it would be like to swim to the other side, you're in good company. Whether you're a seasoned swimmer, aspiring adventurer, or just someone intrigued by the water's mysterious pull, allow these stories to reveal what lies beneath the surface—not just of the water, but of ourselves.
Stories from the Water
Michella Thomas' Swim Story
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In her own words:
I've been a pool swimmer since age of 9 and swam competitivelyfor UCSD Tritons
I started swimming open water regularly since 1990 My first channel swim (not ratified) was Maui Channel in 2009
Other ratified solo marathon swims include Catalina Channel (Sept 2013), English Channel (June 2021 j, 20 Bridges (tandem, June 2023), Length of Tahoe (Aug. 2023), and Around Jersey Island (Aug 2025)
I retired from my career in the Oil & Gas industry as an engineer and manager in 2022
I am currently a UCSD Masters Swim Coach and Swim Instructor, and I swim regularly at La Jolla Cove and at UCSD pool
I'm in the process of planning future marathon swims as I recover from foot surgery. Some of the ones on the 10-year horizon include Anacapa (cross & around), Otsego Lake, Maui Nui, Robben Island, Straitof Gibraltar, Cook Strait, and wherever else sounds fun. I'm open to any and all suggestions as well as putting new swims on a map.
This episode is one story. The Water’s Edge is where stories like this turn into lived experience. Feeling inspired? Find Meaning in the Monotony or subscribe to my Substack for Lessons from the Water
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Questions, comments, feedback, or if you'd like to be a guest, reach out to me.
Stories from the Water is produced by http://254studio.com
Music credit:
Epic Inspiration by Rafael Krux
Link: https://filmmusic.io/song/5447-epic-inspiration-
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Swimming sounds courtesy of swimmer Todd Lantry.
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