Alumni Spotlight: Alison Simpson
Alison Simpson, Mountain Trek Alumna, at the peak of Kilimanjaro
Alison Simpson has completed 57 marathons and ultras, including winning her age group in a 250km Race Across the Sahara Desert, and has climbed Mt Kilimanjaro to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society. When she’s not ticking off her bucket list via traveling and running, Alison works as an award-winning marketer, and seasoned brand and business-builder. We caught up with this dog-loving powerhouse to learn how the Mountain Trek program in British Columbia affected her physically, mentally and emotionally.
Who is Alison?
I’m a passionate brand and business builder who’s had the privilege of building world class brands like Apple, Holt Renfrew, Tim Hortons, Rogers and Ford. I’m equally passionate about testing my physical boundaries, and exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations around the world with my amazing husband.
What was your thought process when signing up for the health retreat? Why Mountain Trek?
I learned of Mountain Trek from friends who raved about the experience, which is why it was top-of-mind when I needed a physical reset. While it certainly wasn’t planned this way, my first visit to Mountain Trek started two days after I gave the eulogy at my mom’s funeral when she unexpectedly passed away. Trekking through the mountains, and immersing myself in the stunning views, while I grieved my mom proved to be a powerful combination.
Which of Mountain Trek’s pillars of holistic health (sleep, detox, nutrition, fitness, stress management) did you gain the most from?
For someone who loves sugar, the detox and nutrition were powerful. The fitness was my favorite part, and the combination of all 3 made stepping on the scale at the end of the week a surprisingly happy experience.
Alison crosses the finish line after running 250km across the Sahara desert
What’s your favorite memory of Mountain Trek?
The people. My fellow trekkers and the incredible Mountain trek team made for a highly rewarding and rejuvenating week.
Has Mountain Trek changed the trajectory of your life?
Mountain Trek helped me recommit to healthier habits, such as making more time for my physical and mental health. I was guilty of de-prioritizing myself, and my experience at Mountain Trek reminded me that ultimately that’s not good for myself or the people around me.
If you had one extra hour each day, what would you spend that hour doing?
Laughing with the people I love.
Who inspires you and why?
It’s a long list. The common themes are people who overcame odds to create a great life and remained humble and curious in success.
Do you have a favorite quote?
“Happiness is an inside job.”
Alison finishing one of her 57 Marathons
If you could invite one person, living or dead, over for a dinner party, who would that be and why?
Indra Nooyi. She was the first female CEO of Pepsi, and one of the first female CEOs of a Fortune 500 company. Learning about her journey and experiences would be inspiring.
Where is your favorite hike in the world? What makes it so special?
Summiting Kilimanjaro with my sister and brother-in-law ranks high. The week my husband and I spent hiking through Bhutan tops my list, so far. My personal favorite trek in Bhutan was Tiger’s Nest.
We are looking forward to experiencing Alison’s favorite hike, Tiger’s Nest, this Spring when Mountain Trek and 12 alumni join us for an experience of a lifetime in Bhutan!
Join Alison and the rest of the Mountain Trek Alumni in achieving the health reset you’ve been looking for. Get your questions answered or Reserve your stay to experience an award-winning fitness retreat & health spa in the lush mountains of British Columbia. There is no time like now.
