In an exclusive interview the first American woman to sailboat alone and nonstop around the globe discusses her mission to break down barriers

At only 30 years old she has already conquered the world. Petite, upbeat and outspoken, Cole Brauer recently sailed alone non-stop around the globe in just 130 days, closely documenting her trip on social media. As the only woman to take part in the Global Solo Challenge and the youngest participant, she came second out of 16, behind Frenchman Philippe Delamare.

After a lot of chasing, the Guardian caught up with her for an exclusive interview at the Annapolis Sailboat Show on the Eastern Shore.