Aaron Dana, a trail runner, shares his journey into running and the mental health benefits he experienced. He started running in 2019 and quickly fell in love with trail running. Running became his outlet and a way to cope with stress. He found that running helped him manage his mental health and gave him a sense of accomplishment. Aaron progressed from running a half marathon to completing a 100-mile race. He learned valuable lessons about pacing, nutrition, and hydration. Aaron's goal is to continue improving and pushing his limits in ultra running. Aaron reflects on the mental growth and lessons he learned over the years of participating in the Midstate Mile race. He emphasizes the importance of celebrating wins and not getting caught up in comparing oneself to others. Aaron shares that the most important thing he did to finally achieve his goal was to have an unshakable belief in himself and refuse to doubt his abilities. He also highlights the significance of having a supportive spouse and crew who understand the challenges of ultra running. Aaron advises new runners to focus on being true to themselves, embracing the clock, and learning from the lessons the race has to offer. In this final part of the conversation, Aaron discusses his future plans and bucket list races. He also talks about his strength training routine, average mileage per week, and favorite hydration methods. The hosts share their experiences as race directors and the importance of volunteering in the ultra running community.

Greg Armstrong, a talented ultra runner and founder of Run4Water, shares his journey into running and his experiences in various races. He recounts memorable moments, such as running Volstate 500k where he was mistaken as a homeless person and the Arkansas Traveler 100 where he had a challenging finish. Greg also talks about his transition to longer events and the importance of mental toughness in ultra running. He discusses a big event coming up for his non-profit organization Run4Water and his pursuit of making the US 24-hour ultra team. Greg Armstrong shares his favorite 24-hour race, the 2018 Desert Solstice, where he competed to make the U.S. team. He describes the competitive nature of track races and the experience of being lapped by faster runners. He recounts a race against Nick Curry where he pushed himself to run a 155.1-mile PR. Greg also discusses his work with Run4Water, a project that aims to provide clean water solutions in areas affected by the water crisis. Greg Armstrong discusses his hope to partner with the Park Service to provide water solutions for porters in Tanzania. He also shares plans to organize an event in May where elite ultra runners will summit the mountain with a group of porters and then participate in a race. The event is a celebration and also a chance to help raise money for a large upcoming project. Greg emphasizes the incredible endurance and resilience of people around the world who face water scarcity and the need for clean water. He talks about his daughter's organization, 84 Days, which provides feminine hygiene products and self-defense training to girls in Uganda. Greg also mentions his upcoming projects in Mexico and Guatemala.

To DONATE please visit: www.run4water.net

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Greg Armstrong's Running Achievements

04:19 Greg's Running Journey and the Appeal of Ultra Running

09:46 Greg's Memorable Ultra Running Stories

16:47 The Growth of Run for Water and Greg's Nonprofit Initiative

25:35 Greg's Pursuit of Making the US 24-hour Ultra Team

30:55 The Thrill of Track Races and the 2018 Desert Solstice

32:18 Competing Against Elite Runners and Pushing Personal Limits

37:26 The Evolution of the 24-Hour Race and Increasing Competitiveness

44:25 Run for Water: Addressing the Global Water Crisis

01:04:10 Water Solutions for Porters in Tanzania

01:05:09 Elite Ultra Runners Summit Mount Kilimanjaro with Porters

01:06:07 Highlighting Porters' Work and Water Needs

01:12:39 Fundraising for Run for Water

01:13:59 Sustainable Options for a Poor Community in Mexico

01:15:27 Creating an Event in Mexico to Support the Monarch Butterflies

01:17:47 Empowering Girls in Uganda with 84 Days

01:19:38 Greg's Minimalist Approach to Nutrition

In a heartfelt conversation, the reigning Mid-State Mile champion and course record holder Eric Kienle opens up about his inspiring journey into the world of ultra running to his success and hard work to be the last man standing at Mid-State Mile. His evolution as a runner is a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and self-belief.

He shares his stories of setbacks, recounting the invaluable lessons learned from each race. We dive into the details and experience at the Mid-State Mile, a race that pushed him to his limits, is a reminder of the importance of self-awareness and humility in the face of adversity. With raw honesty, he reflects on his personal growth, emphasizing the importance of staying present, running your own race, and not letting external factors dictate your pace. His journey towards sobriety and his commitment to being a better father add a deeply personal touch to his story and will inspire many others to prioritize what truly matters.

Michael Montgomery, an extraordinary athlete with over 1,000 races to his name, reveals a lifetime of dedication and passion for running. From his early days of pounding the pavement in 1982 to finishing 377 ultras and over 200 marathons and counting. Michael's journey is an exciting story that reveals his passion for the sport and the community. He discusses his DNFs, race directing, the community and how it has changed over the last 40 years. Michael's story is a reminder that running is more than just a sport; it's a way of life. It's about pushing boundaries, forging friendships, and discovering the extraordinary within ourselves. Michael's legacy is not just about the miles he's logged, but the lives he's touched and the community he's watched grow and change through the years. His story is a reminder that running is more than a sport; it's a way of life, a journey of self-discovery, and a celebration of the human spirit.

Rosie Gagnon, an ultra runner, transforms grief into a powerful journey of healing and strength. Inspired by her son Dexter's courageous battle with mental health, she has conquered 73 grueling 100-mile races, each stride a tribute to his memory. Through her inspiring story, Rosie demonstrates the transformative power of sport, finding solace and resilience in the ultra running community. Her incredible journey serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging open dialogue about mental health and suicide prevention while showcasing the indomitable human spirit.

What happens when a guy facing tough times decides to hit the trails? For Ryan, it was the start of an epic adventure he never could have imagined. Join us as he shares his transformation from facing a challenging time in his life in 2020 to running 100 and 200 miler races in less than 2 years. Join him as he recounts iconic races like Warhammer 100, Cruel Jewel 100, Hellbender, and even the Souther States 200-mile adventure! Ryan's love for nature and his work as a regional manager intertwine with his passion for running, creating a unique and inspiring story. So, lace up your shoes and get ready for an adventure that'll leave you wanting to go on that long run!

Join us with ultra runner Brandon Johnson as he shares his inspiring journey to running to his mailbox to lose weight to finishing his first marathon and most recently setting the 12-hour state record. Brandon's passion for running shines through as he recounts the trials and tribulations of training, racing, and everything in between. Whether he's discussing his love for backyard ultras, his family's unwavering support as his pit crew, or his fueling strategies. Brandon's infectious enthusiasm will make you want to lace up your shoes and hit the trails.

In each episode, Brandon delves into a different aspect of his running life, from the mental strategies that keep him going during those dark moments on the trail to the gear and nutrition that fuel his ultra adventures. He'll also share the stories behind his most memorable races, the lessons he's learned along the way, and his aspirations for the future of his running career.

In this episode, we meet Kassandra Klemenz, a double lung transplant recipient who has defied the odds and become an inspiring athlete. Kassandra will share her journey of overcoming cystic fibrosis, the challenges she faced before and after the transplant, and her newfound passion for endurance sports. You'll hear about her participation in mountain bike races, duathlons, and completing the Knoxville Marathon this year, all while training for even bigger goals in the future. Kassandra's story is one of resilience, determination, and the importance of pushing your limits. Tune in to hear her inspiring story!

Meet Rob Apple, the ultramarathon legend and a pioneer in the sport who holds the world record for the most ultras ever run. In this episode, Rob shares his incredible journey from his early days as a runner in the '70s to his relentless pursuit of ultra distances. Discover the transformation of the sport from its humble beginnings with homemade energy drinks and minimal support, to the thriving scene it is today. Get inspired by Rob's unwavering passion and experience the evolution of ultra running through his eyes.

In this podcast episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Daniel Grant, an avid runner who has conquered various races. Daniel’s running odyssey began with a modest 5K, but he gradually pushed his limits, eventually participating in grueling 100-mile races. Along the way, he discovered the power of perseverance and the mental and physical resilience required to overcome challenges.

Nutrition Insights: Daniel found that solid food doesn’t fare well for him during hot races. Instead, he relies on easily digestible options like applesauce. It’s a lesson learned through trial and error, as he navigated the complexities of fueling his body during intense runs.

The 100K Adventure: His first 100K race, the Pistol, went smoothly until he encountered the infamous “wall.” Despite the setback, Daniel emerged wiser and more determined. Each race became a learning opportunity, propelling him forward.

Training Strategies: Daniel shares his experience with low heart rate training and the meticulous approach he took leading up to the Pistol Ultra. He also candidly discusses the struggles he faced with knee pain and blisters during races, emphasizing the importance of gleaning wisdom from adversity.

Race Chronicles: From Three Sisters to Fort Frenzy, Firewater, and Fall Creek 100, Daniel recounts his adventures at various races. He even delves into the unique challenges of staying awake during a 24-hour race and the temptation to take a seat during loop races.

Conditioning and Reflection: Reflecting on his performance at Chief Ladiga in 2023, Daniel acknowledges how conditioning played a pivotal role in his improvement in 2024. He also opens up about a difficult decision: dropping out of a race due to physical and mental reasons, and the impact it had on him and his running partner.

Coaching and Nature’s Bliss: Daniel appreciates the guidance of a coach and finds solace in running on trails, connecting with nature’s rhythm. His favorite race distances include 100 miles, and he sets ambitious goals for the future—aiming to run two to three 100-mile races annually and enhance his performance in 24-hour races.

Community and Support: Lastly, Daniel expresses heartfelt gratitude for the running community and the unwavering support he receives from his team. It’s a testament to the camaraderie that fuels his passion for running. 

Brian Zickefoose, an ultra runner, shares his journey from making bad choices and tanking his career to finding redemption through running. He started running in seventh grade after being cut from the baseball team and discovered his talent for long-distance running. Despite facing setbacks and addiction, he found his way back to running and achieved impressive results, including podium finishes and breaking course records. Zick emphasizes the importance of community and running for a higher purpose, finding meaning in supporting and inspiring others along the way. Brian Zick's journey in running has taught him the importance of loving others and humbling himself. He realized that his marathon PRs didn't matter as much as how he loved other people and how he could be a light in the world. He also discovered the reality of eternity and the impact his actions can have on it. Zick's decision to do something that scared him, like running his first marathon, led him to the world of ultra running, where he found a sense of brotherhood and connection with other runners. He learned to focus on the race of life and how he can make a difference in the world.

David and Matt dive into their marathon experiences, sharing the challenges and triumphs of training. They discuss how life events, like moving and illness, impacted their preparation but didn't stop them from reaching the finish line. The importance of strength training, flexibility work, and pushing through those 'ugly runs' is a key theme.

The conversation then shifts to upcoming races both as competitors and organizers. David and Matt reveal their must-have gear for 100-mile races and highlight the events they'll be timing. They wrap up with a thank you to listeners and invite suggestions for future guests.

Join Kaylee Frederick, a young and fearless ultra runner, as she shares her incredible journey to becoming a top competitor in the world of endurance racing. From her first 100-miler at 16 to battling the extreme heat of Badwater 135, to winning Badwater Cape Fear in 2024 Kaylee's story is fun and inspiring. You can hear the joy she has for the sport and her determination to be competitive and continue to push boundaries. Learn about the mental and physical challenges she's faced, the lessons she's learned, and the incredible rewards that come with pushing your limits. Discover how Kaylee balances her training with her teenage life, the support she receives from the ultra running community, and her ambitious goals for the future.

Micah Morgan & Chris Stayman share their experiences with their most recent 100 miles races. Micah completed his first 100 mile race and discovered that his why is not what he thought it was. Chris tells us about breaking the TN state record for the 100 mile distance with his army of sour patch kids. We dive deeper into discussing the running community and the impact it can have finding your community and a place to belong. We hope you enjoy this one! Its a little different take on our normal but you get to see two different perspectives on the 100 mile distance.

Ultrarunner and Coach Mary Cates knows a thing or two about pushing past breaking points. In this episode, she shares her raw and honest journey through injury, self-doubt, cancer treatment, and her "why" for running. Discover how the miles that try to break you can be the very ones that mold you into a stronger, more resilient athlete – and person.

Ashley Paulson's love for running began at a young age, following in her father's footsteps. It wasn't about winning or achieving the fastest times; it was about the pure enjoyment of the sport. Even when faced with injuries that sidelined her from running, Ashley found ways to stay active and discovered a passion for triathlon training. Through triathlon, she embraced new challenges like swimming and cycling, but her love for running remained the foundation.

This enthusiasm is evident in Ashley's journey from marathons to ultramarathons. She isn't afraid to push her limits and conquer new distances, but it's the entire experience that brings her joy. From the consistent daily training to the grueling challenges of ultramarathons, Ashley finds happiness in the process itself.

In "Finding Joy in the Journey," Ashley Paulson's story will inspire you to rediscover your own love for running, whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting out. She reminds us that running is more than just a physical activity; it's a journey of self-discovery, accomplishment, and pure enjoyment.

Sarah Baker never imagined that a simple walk in the woods would set her on a path of profound personal change. Yet, that's exactly what happened on the Appalachian Trail. "The White Blazes that Changed Everything" is her story of resilience, grit, and finding her true strength amidst the miles and mountains. Now, inspired by her transformative journey, Sarah sets her sights on a new challenge: conquering the Appalachian Trail in record time. Tune in to hear how the white blazes became her path to self-discovery and how they now lead her towards achieving a historic Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the very trail that changed everything.

Micah Morgan's story is one of transformation and self-discovery. After finding himself overweight and unhealthy, Micah decided to make a change. He began his journey by losing weight, but soon plateaued and lacked motivation. It was then that he decided to try running, starting with a 5k. He quickly fell in love with running and the trail running community. Micah has since completed numerous races and about to attempt his first 100-mile ultramarathon. Through running, Micah has not only improved his physical health but also his mental well-being. He has found a sense of community and purpose, and is now inspiring others to achieve their own goals. We hope you enjoy this one!

Billy Richards is an ultramarathoner who has completed an impressive 35 100-mile races in a single year, carrying an American flag with him. This podcast tells the inspiring story of his journey, from his early days hitting the gym and Marine to his discovery of ultramarathons and his decision to run with the flag.

The podcast will explore Billy's motivations for running such long distances, the challenges he has faced, and the meaning he finds in carrying the flag.

This podcast is for anyone who is interested in running, overcoming challenges, and the power of symbols. It is a story about pushing limits, finding meaning in unexpected places, and the unwavering spirit of the American flag.

From Hurricane Katrina to ultramarathons, Mike Uhlig's story is one of resilience and determination. After his hometown was devastated by the storm, Mike moved to Kentucky and joined the cross country team. Despite not making varsity, he continued to run in the military and during his time in Afghanistan. When he got out of the military, he was inspired by books about ultrarunning and began training again. He quickly found success as podiumed nine out of his first ten races and set a new course record at Gone Loco. Mike's story is an inspiration to anyone who has ever faced adversity and dreamed of achieving something great.

This episode delves into Bob Adam's incredible journey, from being an elementary kid on the middle school cross country team to hitting the treadmill in Kuwait to battling it out on courses like Boston, Black Toe, Pinhoti and many others. Along the way, you'll hear about his numerous accomplishments, funny stories about races and runners and his accomplishments and multiple course records in ultramarathons, proving that dedication and grit can overcome many obstacles. So, whether you're a seasoned ultra runner or just curious about the human spirit's potential, this podcast is for you. Join us as we explore Bob's world, learn from his experiences, and discover the power of determination and laughter in the face of any challenge.

Andy Glaze's journey into the world of ultramarathon running began in an unexpected place: his twenties, battling anxiety and depression. Seeking solace, he turned to running, and what started as a casual jog soon blossomed into a life-changing passion.

Fueled by the endorphin rush and the sense of accomplishment, Andy persevered, even when faced with self-doubt and challenging races like his first 50K, the Beyond the Bear. Each race became a learning experience, pushing him to new limits and solidifying his love for the sport.

Andy's dedication doesn't stop at the finish line. He's a vocal advocate for running, encouraging others to embrace its transformative power, regardless of their experience level. Whether it's a 5K or a 100-mile ultramarathon, Andy's message is clear: running ca be fun and it has the potential to change your life, just like it did his.

So, if you're looking for inspiration to lace up your shoes and hit the pavement, look no further than Andy Glaze. His story is a testament to the power of running to overcome challenges, find joy, and connect with a supportive community.

Join us as we dive into breaking course records, FKT's, and the newest Last Man Standing event The Conquer with Luke Bollschweiller! Luke is a seasoned ultra-runner with a passion for the sport. He shares his insights on the transition from marathon running to ultras, the challenges and rewards of long-distance running, and his tips for fueling and training for ultra-marathons. Luke also talks about his own experiences, including his first attempt at 100 miles at Three Sisters and the epic fail of his very first attempt at an ultra. Get ready to be inspired by Luke's dedication to the sport and his love for running.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Matt Cook, an ultra runner who defied the odds. After being nearly paralyzed by Guillain-Barré syndrome, Matt not only recovered but went on to win The Cherokee Ultra 70k.

In this podcast, Matt shares his incredible story of resilience, determination, and the power of the human spirit. Discover how he overcame adversity, found his passion for running, and achieved extraordinary athletic feats.

Learn about Matt's experiences in ultramarathons, the challenges he's faced, and the lessons he's learned along the way.

Meet Steven Kornhaus, aka Ultra Trail Steven, a former Army tanker who transformed into a 100-mile ultramarathon runner. Join us as we delve into the awe-inspiring journey of Steven, a man who swapped his army boots and camo for running shoes and an action camera, he then obtained multiple podium finishes and becomes the last man standing at the Elsie Enduro.

In this episode, we chat with Matt Blankenship, former University of Tennessee Volunteer and national champion, as he shares his surprising journey from the gridiron to Olympic weightlifter who holds multiple world records to an ultramarathon runner who pushes his limits on the dirt. Buckle up for blisters, bicep tears (ouch!), and the powerful lessons discovered through sweat, community, and leaving a legacy.

What does it take to be an ultra runner and a photographer? How do you balance your passions and goals in life? How do you overcome the obstacles and challenges that come your way? In this episode, we talk to Misty Heron, an accomplished ultra runner and photographer who has done amazing things in both fields. Misty shares her journey in trail running and photography, from how she got started to how she developed her skills and style. She also tells us about her experience thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, one of the longest and most scenic trails in the world. This episode is full of inspiration, wisdom, and stories from a remarkable woman who finds her passion and chases it!

Casey George is a runner who used to be a smoker who wanted to do something better for himself, and he decided to make a change and started running which quickly led to his first ultra marathon. His first race was a 10K that crushed him but he was hooked. He quickly progressed to longer distances, and he has now run multiple distances including 100-milers, a 200-miler, and backyard ultras. Listen to Casey's journey as he takes us through this fun conversation.

David, Matt, and Mike discuss their worst and best race experiences of the year, highlighting the challenges they faced and the lessons they learned. They share stories of races like the Chattanooga Marathon, Georgia Jewel, Black Toe, and Mad Backyard. The conversation emphasizes the importance of hydration, training, and mental resilience in achieving race goals. Overall, the hosts reflect on the growth and personal development that comes from both successful and challenging race experiences. They also share lessons learned from injuries and the importance of listening to one's body. The conversation touches on setting realistic expectations, the challenges of 5K races, and the announcement of a new race in the Cherokee National Forest.

Kyle Kalbus is a decorated ultrarunner who has achieved a lot in the sport in a short amount of time. He is a true inspiration to anyone who is looking to push their limits and achieve their goals. Kyle's story is one of perseverance, dedication, and hard work. He started running as a way to lose weight and quickly fell in love with the sport. He has since gone on to win numerous races and set course records. Kyle is a humble and approachable athlete who is always willing to share his knowledge and experience with others.

Walter Handloser shares his journey into running and his experiences in various races. He discusses his transition from marathons to running to a record of 50-100 miler races in 1 year. Walt also talks about his pursuit of the Western States 100 and his participation in challenging races like The Spine Race. He shares his approach to planning and logistics to race back-to-back events. Overall, Walt's story highlights his passion for running and his determination to push his limits.

Ultrarunner Chuck Rudd wore his "DNF" bracelet as a reminder of his 100-mile failed attempt for two years before going back for redemption at Yeti 100. Rudd's story is an inspiration to us all. It shows that we should never give up on our dreams, no matter how many times we fail. Failure is simply a stepping stone to success. So next time you're feeling discouraged, remember Chuck Rudd's story. And don't be afraid to take risks. Because without risk, there is no reward.

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're excited to welcome Ron Wireman Jr as he shares his incredible story of transforming from a sedentary lifestyle to winning multiple ultramarathons. Ron's passion for running, ignited during his childhood. After a lengthy break, he rediscovered his passion for running and embarked on a remarkable journey that led him to achieve multiple race victories and podium finishes. His journey began with a half marathon challenge from a coworker, and since then, Ron has never looked back.

Join us for an engaging and fun conversation with ultra runner Amy Hamilton as she shares her journey from field hockey and lacrosse to the trails. We'll delve into her experience of transitioning from road running to ultras, including her first ultra at Mountain Masochist to winning Yeti 100. Hear about her struggles with nutrition and how she overcame them to become a top ultra runner. Learn about her favorite hydration and nutrition strategies for long races. And get Amy's insights on the mental toughness it takes to conquer ultras. This episode is packed with inspiration and practical tips for any ultra runner. https://linktr.ee/runeastcoastadventures

In this episode, we sit down with Brandy Krisher, the chief editor of East Coast Ultra Running Magazine. Brandy opens up about her personal journey into running and ultra running, which began in her 20s as a way to cope with a difficult relationship and struggles with alcoholism. Running became a therapeutic outlet for her, and she has now been sober for over seven years.

Brandy shares how she gradually increased her running distances that led to a 30K trail race that ignited her passion for trail running. She then progressed to a 50K and eventually completed a 50-mile race, her longest distance to date. She describes the emotional and physical challenges of her first 50-mile race and the transformative power of ultra running.

As the chief editor, Brandy discusses her role at Run Bum Races, potential release date for the magazine, and her vision for East Coast Ultra Running Magazine. The magazine aims to highlight hidden gems and influential figures within the East Coast running community. Brandy expresses her excitement for the magazine’s first episode and the opportunity to bring the community closer together.

The conversation also touches on the importance of photographers in capturing the essence of races and the stories of runners. Brandy, who started photography in high school and has been practicing digitally for almost five years, shares her love for honey as her go-to nutrition during runs and her use of Relite for electrolytes. She also talks about her ongoing quest to find the perfect trail shoe.

Join us as Brandy shares her inspiring story and her passion for ultra running, photography, and community building.

Barncreek Backyard race results and quick recap. Our recent races and the struggles and remembering why we do what we do. Finding your "why" when the times get hard. Why do you run? https://linktr.ee/runeastcoastadventures

Lauren Jones the redemption story to a podium finish after facing fears and an injury at No Business. She returns to tackle several large races including Western States and No Business 100 in 2023 with doubt that she can return as strong but what she finds instead is a podium finish through dedication, hard work, and believing in her plan. https://linktr.ee/runeastcoastadventures

Powered by perogies and a pacer at No Business 100 meet Andrew Nelson who charged to podium finishes in back to back years. https://linktr.ee/runeastcoastadventures

Ethan broke the national 50k record then went on to run a double Boston marathon in less than 6 hours and just completed Badwater 135. He is also Knoxville's hometown marathon legend with 3 wins.

Fueled by sour patch gummies and Rockstars we welcome Chris Stayman to the Dirt and Vert Podcast as this week's guest. We discuss his amazing performances, his fueling strategy, and mindset and what he's got coming up next. 🚀🔥 Follow more ECA content here! https://linktr.ee/runeastcoastadventures Thankful to our event sponsors. Hoist Hydration Salty Britches anti chafing Gu gels The long Run UN Running Drankful Hydration Packs Allegiance Flags Greater Me

David and Matt interview special guest and runnnig coach Josh Laker a very accomplished ultrarunner as he talks about his training leading up to Dirt Circuit, the highs and lows of the race and shares some helpful advice. We also discuss backyard ultras as Josh has won 2 of them including the Ohio Backyard Ultra. To follow Josh and get helpful training advice you can find him on social media @ 4cyclerunner https://linktr.ee/runeastcoastadventures

The Dirt Circuit recap and our upcoming guests. We also answer several questions and give some advice you may or may not want to hear. 😜 https://linktr.ee/runeastcoastadventures

We discuss our recap of the Georgia Jewel 100 and give a few tips at the end for future runners. Follow us on all platforms and come join us at our next events. https://linktr.ee/runeastcoastadventures

Brian Vermillion takes us on a journey from a nail in his knee during a trail race to back-to-back podiums finishes. One of which is Dam Yeti 50 his "fun run" turned into a podium finish. Brian shares his experiences with different coaches and his new focus on speed. The episode dives deep into the Cherokee 130K, where Brian is 1st place overall and sets the course record finishing first place overall in a race with a 70% DNF rate. We get insights into the race's toughness and the potential for future adjustments and finish up discussing Brian's upcoming races.

Get ready to hit the trails with "Candy Mama" Tara Dower, a seasoned thru-hiker turned ultra runner! Join us as Tara, a seasoned through-hiker turned ultra runner, spills the beans on her FKT adventures, epic race fails (cactus attacks, anyone?), and hilarious trail stories. From conquering brutal mountain trails to dodging foot fetishes at the Ohio Backyard Ultra, Tara's journey is anything but ordinary. Get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe even lace up your own running shoes!

Kallup McCoy II, a Cherokee native from North Carolina, shares his journey from addiction to becoming an ultra marathoner. He struggled with addiction for over 15 years and served time in jail before finding transformation and a new purpose in endurance sports. He started with an Ironman 70.3 race and fell in love with the sense of accomplishment and community. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, including losing his father to cancer, Kallup persevered and found hope. His story is a testament to the power of resilience and the ability to overcome obstacles. Kallup shares his journey of overcoming addiction and finding purpose through running. He experienced years of addiction, attempted suicide multiple times, and even overdosed. However, a series of events, including a near-death experience and a chance encounter with a pastor, led him to find faith and start his path to recovery. After getting out of jail, he decided to run the Trail of Tears route to connect with his Cherokee heritage. This experience sparked his love for running and eventually led him to run a time of 2:40 in the marathon and complete an 800-mile run that would be a journey to a new start. Kallup's story is a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and the transformative nature of running.

Ed the Jester, a record holder for the most 100-mile races completed, shares his journey into running and the challenges he faced along the way. He started running marathons as a teenager but stopped due to knee pain. After going through a period of depression and losing everything in the real estate market crash, he found solace in running again. He gradually got back into running and eventually started participating in ultra marathons. He broke the world record for the most marathons in a year and later set the record for the most 100-mile races in a year. Ed Ettinghausen, also known as the Jester, discusses his running achievements and records in this conversation. He talks about his goal of surpassing the current record holder Walter Handloser for the most 100-mile races completed. Ed shares his motivation to set high goals and push himself to achieve more. He also mentions other records he holds, such as the most lifetime hundred-mile wins and podium finishes. The conversation explores the evolution of the Jester persona and how it represents Ed's unique approach to running and life.

Darren Janzen spills the dirt on his Mid-State Mile adventure, sharing his thoughts, heat-beating strategies, and the hilarious camaraderie of the trail running tribe. From plantar fasciitis to bulging discs, this guy knows pain, but he also knows how to push through it like a champ.

This isn't your normal Sunday stroll. It's about finding your inner wild, embracing suck, and discovering just how far those legs can carry you. So grab your hydration bottle, start your run, and get ready for a dose of trail running inspiration with Darren. You might just find yourself signing up for your next ultra.

In this engaging conversation, Chris Clemens shares his inspiring journey from a life-altering accident that he overcame to becoming an accomplished ultra runner finishing Vol State an incredible 6 times. He discusses the challenges he faced during recovery, the importance of community and support, and his experiences in various races. The dialogue highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of running. In this engaging conversation, Chris Clemens shares his journey through endurance racing, discussing the challenges and triumphs he has faced along the way. He emphasizes the importance of overcoming obstacles, the mental game of racing, and the transformative power of these experiences. The discussion also touches on personal growth, time management, and the balance between running and life. Chris reflects on why he runs, the lessons learned from bad races, and how these experiences shape his perspective on life. He also shares insights on his training strategies and favorite gear, concluding with a discussion on the evolution of his race preferences.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:26 Overcoming Adversity: A Traumatic Brain Injury

03:04 Progressing in Running: From 5K to Marathons

03:53 Discovering Ultra Distances

04:46 The Vol State Race: A Special Connection

06:09 The Wood Chip Incident and Recovery

11:52 Consistency and Hard Work

14:22 Changing Academic and Career Paths

16:11 From Marathons to Ultras

20:33 Running in Extreme Weather

21:01 Finding Joy and Freedom in Healthy Habits

26:46 Different race formats

30:13 The Importance of Listening and Being Present

39:36 Evolution of Favorite Distances

41:30 Favorite races

45:41 Challenging race experiences

48:15 The role of race directors

49:08 Conclusion and Takeaways

50:04 The Challenges and Growth of Ball State and Warhammer

52:08 Adapting and Overcoming Obstacles in Races

54:38 Navigating Difficult Sections of Races

58:07 The Varied Terrain of Races

01:00:00 Races: A Catalyst for Personal Growth and Perspective

01:00:36 The Challenges of Warhammer

01:03:15 The Unexpected Difficulty of Races

01:07:35 The HOTS 2022 Race: Unknown Challenges

01:09:11 Choosing to Overcome Challenges

01:11:04 Making the Most of Your Time and Prioritizing Passions