Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Pushing Horizons Step by Step

Running has never been only about miles for Michelle Doza.

It's a place to think, process life, clear her head, and sometimes think about absolutely nothing. It's something that brings her happiness and grounds her when life feels off. Michelle

Michelle's running journey eventually took her from the 17-mile Imogene Pass Run to six marathons and a pursuit of the elusive sub-four-hour marathon. Her current PR? 4:00:53. Yeah... painfully close. Michelle

Then came the Leadville Trail Marathon.

Starting around 11,000 feet, climbing roughly 6,000 feet and reaching above 13,000 feet at Mosquito Pass, Leadville forced Michelle to change the conversation happening inside her own head. Instead of asking why she was doing it, she reminded herself that she had trained for it, that people were waiting for her, and that she could do hard things. MichelleMichelle

In this episode, we talk about running as therapy, injuries and patience, chasing a sub-four marathon, learning to trust the process, the mental battle of Leadville, finding joy in difficult things, the running community, and her experience co-hosting Runners Like Us.

And after Leadville, another question has started creeping in:

Could an ultramarathon be next?

Michelle says it's firmly on her radar. Michelle

Because sometimes running isn't really about how many miles you've covered.

It's about discovering how much further you're willing to go.

Keywords: Michelle Doza, More Than Miles, Pushing Horizons, Pushing Horizons Step by Step, Runners Like Us, Leadville Trail Marathon, Leadville Marathon, Colorado runner, marathon running, trail running, running podcast, women runners, sub 4 marathon, running motivation, running as therapy, mental health and running, endurance running, running community, ultramarathon, first ultra

The Life He Almost Missed | Eamon Kearney

There was a point when Eamon Kearney didn't believe there was a future worth staying for.

Today, he's sober, a father, a marathon runner, and the author of the upcoming memoir The Long Way Home.

Born in Ireland and now living in the United States, Eamon's story begins long before running. He spent the first part of his life in a mother and baby home before being adopted, grew up with an alcoholic father, joined the Irish Army at 18, immigrated to America, became a father, and eventually faced his own battle with alcohol.

In late 2021, Eamon reached his darkest point.

What followed was a slow rebuilding of his life.

After getting sober in 2022, he returned to running after decades away from the sport. Since then, he has completed numerous half marathons and marathons, including Chicago, Berlin, Boston and the Marine Corps Marathon.

But the finish lines aren't really the story.

In this deeply personal conversation, Eamon talks about adoption and identity, addiction and sobriety, fatherhood, his fractured relationship with his son, finding his biological siblings, therapy, learning to forgive himself, and why running became such an important part of rebuilding his life.

We also talk about The Long Way Home, the memoir he's writing for his children and for anyone who has ever struggled with addiction, shame, identity or the feeling that they don't quite belong.

Because sometimes the most important part of surviving your darkest moment is getting the chance to discover everything that comes after.

Season 3, Episode 31 of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step.

Keywords: Eamon Kearney, The Life He Almost Missed, The Long Way Home, sobriety, addiction recovery, running and sobriety, marathon running, Boston Marathon, Berlin Marathon, Chicago Marathon, Marine Corps Marathon, Irish immigrant, adoption, fatherhood, mental health, recovery, resilience, running podcast, marathon podcast, Pushing Horizons, Pushing Horizons Step by Step

250 Miles Changes Everything | Season 3, Episode 30

The last time he joined Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, he had just won Sedona Canyon 125 and had already decided what was coming next: Cocodona 250.

At that point, 250 miles was still something he could only imagine.

This time, he comes back after experiencing it for himself.

We talk about what it actually takes to run Cocodona 250, from 100+ mile training weeks and back-to-back long runs to sleep deprivation, hallucinations, nutrition, chafing, swollen feet and ankles, crew support, pacers, and the constant problem-solving required to keep moving for more than three days.

He shares what happened when the race became difficult, why reaching 125 miles is mentally different when you know you're only halfway, and what went through his mind when he reached mile 211 with some of the hardest miles of his life still ahead.

We also talk about the role his wife and crew played when he could no longer think clearly, why finishing a 250-mile race becomes a team effort, and what he learned about himself by continuing when his body and mind were telling him to stop.

After Cocodona, he went on to finish Tahoe 200 — an experience that changed his approach to sleep and multi-day racing even further.

And despite everything Cocodona put him through, he's going back.

Because after 250 miles, the question is no longer whether he can do it.

It's what he can do differently the next time.

Topics: Cocodona 250, ultrarunning, 200-mile races, ultra endurance, trail running, sleep deprivation, hallucinations in ultramarathons, ultramarathon training, 250-mile training, ultra nutrition, race strategy, crew and pacers, mental endurance, Tahoe 200, Sedona Canyon 125, endurance running, multi-day ultramarathons, human endurance.

Heidi Allan grew up as a gymnast and rock climber, competed around the world in obstacle course racing, and spent three seasons competing on American Ninja Warrior.

Running wasn't her strength. In fact, she used to hate it.

Today, she's an ultrarunner, 200-mile finisher, race winner, and Race Director for Aravaipa Running.

Heidi joins Pushing Horizons to share how her pursuit of difficult challenges eventually led her into ultrarunning and why the sport gave her something she hadn't found in competition before.

We get into her progression from Spartan races and Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim to Javelina 100 and Tahoe 200, where she finished fifth female in 62:47:44. Heidi shares the reality of going more than 60 hours with almost no sleep, dealing with severe blisters, hallucinating during the final miles, relying on her pacers and learning that her body was capable of running far later into a 200-mile race than she thought.

We also explore Heidi's other side of ultrarunning as a Race Director for Aravaipa Running, including the work behind Tucson Marathon, Crown King Scramble and Copper Corridor. From permits and aid-station logistics to extreme heat and calculating how much water runners may need, Heidi gives a different perspective on what it takes to put on an endurance event.

Most importantly, this is a conversation about how Heidi's relationship with competition has changed from perfection and pressure to accepting what she can give on any particular day.

Because sometimes discovering what's possible isn't about becoming the best.

It's about discovering another version of yourself.

Keywords: Heidi Allan, Tahoe 200, ultrarunning, ultramarathon, 200 mile race, Aravaipa Running, American Ninja Warrior, obstacle course racing, OCR, trail running, mountain running, Javelina 100, race director, Tucson Marathon, Crown King Scramble, Copper Corridor, endurance running, endurance athlete, ultra running podcast, Pushing Horizons

Season 3, Episode 28 — This Too Shall Pass

Trueheart Brown never grew up dreaming of becoming an ultrarunner.

After years of skiing and competitive cycling, running eventually became something much deeper a way to process difficult experiences, quiet his mind, and find space away from the demands of life and his career in wildland fire.

Then he discovered he could race.

Trueheart won the Black Canyon 100K in 2022 before taking on his first 100-mile race at the Flagstaff to Grand Canyon Stagecoach Line Ultra in 2025. Despite never having run farther than roughly 60 miles before race day, he finished the 100 miler in 14:40:43 and took the overall win.

In 2026, he stepped up again at Sedona Canyons 125 only three weeks after breaking his fourth metatarsal.

He finished in 25:14:07.

And won.

In this conversation, we talk about his unconventional path into ultrarunning, decades of endurance training, learning to suffer, racing 100 miles for the first time, adapting when race plans fall apart, running Sedona Canyons with a broken foot, the importance of preparation, and why the darkest moments of an ultramarathon don't necessarily mean your race is over.

We also talk about what comes next.

Trueheart has been selected for the 2027 Cocodona 250, where he'll attempt to make the enormous jump from 125 miles to 250.

And through all of it, one idea keeps coming back:

This too shall pass.

The bad moments will pass.

But so will the good ones.

Keywords: Trueheart Brown, ultrarunning, ultramarathon, Cocodona 250, Cocodona, Sedona Canyons 125, Stagecoach 100, Flagstaff to Grand Canyon Stagecoach Line Ultra, Black Canyon 100K, 100 mile ultramarathon, 200 mile ultramarathon, 250 mile ultramarathon, trail running, Arizona trail running, endurance running, ultramarathon training, ultra running mindset, mental toughness, wildland firefighter, Coconino National Forest, Pushing Horizons podcast

How much carbohydrate do you actually need during an endurance race and is more always better?

Roger, CEO of SQUEEZY Nutrition, returns to Pushing Horizons: Step by Step for Part 2 of our conversation about endurance fueling.

This time, we go deeper into the practical problems runners face when the hours and miles start adding up.

Roger explains how athletes can train their gut to tolerate higher carbohydrate intake, why blindly copying athletes consuming 120–150+ grams of carbs per hour can create problems, and why your fueling strategy needs to be built around your own body, intensity and race.

We also talk about what happens when you miss your fueling early in a race, whether you can recover from an energy crash, gels versus solid food during ultramarathons, caffeine, hydration, fueling beyond 10 hours, recovery nutrition, and the relationship between endurance training and the immune system.

This conversation was recorded before my attempt at the Berlin Wall 100 Miler — a race where my own fueling mistakes eventually became one of the biggest lessons of the entire experience.

I carried enough fuel.

I simply didn't eat enough of it early enough.

After covering 52 miles, I understand this conversation very differently than I did when we recorded it.

Part 2 of our endurance fueling series with Roger and SQUEEZY Nutrition.

Keywords: endurance fueling, ultramarathon nutrition, running nutrition, carbs per hour running, carbohydrate intake endurance, gut training, marathon fueling, 100 mile fueling, ultrarunning nutrition, race nutrition strategy, energy gels, solid food ultramarathon, caffeine endurance running, hydration for runners, recovery nutrition, immune system endurance athletes, under fueling, sports nutrition, SQUEEZY Nutrition, Pushing Horizons podcast

I went into the Berlin Wall 100 believing I could run 100 miles.

I made it 52.

84 kilometers. The longest distance I have ever covered on foot.

And then the sweeper caught me.

This is the story of my first 100-mile ultramarathon attempt — the heat, the mistakes, the fueling problem, the high heart rate from early in the race, and what happened when my energy eventually disappeared.

The frustrating part? I had the fuel with me. I had packed enough gels in my vest for the first 33 kilometers and had more waiting in every drop bag.

I just didn't eat them.

I took in roughly 150 grams of fuel during those first 33 kilometers, and hours later I paid for it.

But this isn't only a story about a DNF.

Because somewhere inside a race I didn't finish, I also went farther than I have ever gone before.

52 miles.

I didn't reach the horizon I was chasing.

But the horizon moved.

Season 3 episode 26 of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step.

Keywords: ultrarunning, ultramarathon, 100 mile ultramarathon, first 100 miler, Berlin Wall 100, 100 mile DNF, 50 mile ultramarathon, 52 miles, ultra running nutrition, ultramarathon fueling, endurance running, trail running, running in extreme heat, DNF recovery, ultra running mistakes, endurance mindset, long distance running, Pushing Horizons podcast

Stephanie Rosebaugh is an ultrarunner, licensed marriage and family therapist, speaker, author of The Power of Enoughness, wife, and mother of two.

Her journey into ultrarunning started almost by accident with the Antelope Canyon 55K. But after pacing a friend for 60 miles at Cocodona 250, something changed. She wanted to experience the entire course for herself.

She eventually did, twice.

Stephanie has also found a home in the backyard ultra format, where she has pushed her body deep into sleep deprivation, exhaustion and discomfort while earning multiple Last Woman Standing finishes and pursuing her goal of representing Team USA.

But this conversation goes much deeper than running.

Stephanie spent much of her life believing her value had to be earned through performance and achievement. That experience eventually became part of the foundation for her book, The Power of Enoughness.

We talk about Cocodona 250, backyard ultras, reaching the physical limits of the body, sleep deprivation, motherhood, resilience, therapy, self-worth, the danger of attaching identity to achievement, and why doing harder things doesn't make us more valuable.

Because you can chase huge goals.

You can push your limits.

You can want to discover what you're capable of.

But you don't have to cross another finish line to prove that you're enough.

Season 3 Episode 25, You Were Enough Before the Finish Line.

Featuring Stephanie Rosebaugh.

Keywords: Stephanie Rosebaugh, Cocodona 250, backyard ultra, backyard ultramarathon, The Power of Enoughness, ultrarunning, ultramarathon, Last Woman Standing, Team USA Backyard Ultra, endurance running, 200 mile ultramarathon, trail running, women in ultrarunning, mental health, therapy, resilience, self-worth, running psychology, endurance athlete, Pushing Horizons Step by Step

Shelby Dillingham is an ultrarunner, multidisciplinary artist, and Type 1 diabetic who recently completed the Tahoe 200.

Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at just seven years old, Shelby has spent most of her life managing a condition that never gives her a day off.

Running entered her life during the pandemic. What started with a simple running plan eventually became a 50K, 50 miles, 100 miles, and ultimately 200 miles around Lake Tahoe.

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, Shelby shares what it really takes to manage Type 1 diabetes while running ultramarathons and why the 200-mile distance has become the place where she feels she belongs.

We talk about the technology behind managing her diabetes, including continuous glucose monitoring and an insulin pump, and the additional planning required when spending several days on the trail.

Shelby also takes us inside her Tahoe 200 experience from recovering from tendonitis just weeks before the race to managing her diabetes, relying on her crew and pacers, dealing with sleep deprivation, and reaching one of the most frightening moments of her race when she ran out of water while her blood sugar was high.

But this conversation goes far beyond one race.

Shelby talks about losing her job shortly after finishing her first 100-miler, using running to navigate difficult periods of life, avoiding burnout, finding community through ultrarunning, and why she doesn't want running to become her entire identity.

For Shelby, ultrarunning isn't simply about pushing farther.

It's a commitment to herself.

A way of building self-trust and continuing to show up—not just for the athlete she is today, but for the seven-year-old girl who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and could never have imagined that one day she would run 200 miles.

✅ Topics Covered:

✓ Tahoe 200
✓ Running 200 miles
✓ Type 1 diabetes and ultrarunning
✓ Managing blood glucose during endurance events
✓ Insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors
✓ Training with Type 1 diabetes
✓ Returning from injury
✓ 100 miles vs. 200 miles
✓ Ultrarunning mindset
✓ Mental resilience and self-trust
✓ Crew and pacers
✓ Running through the night
✓ Ultrarunning community
✓ Avoiding burnout
✓ Identity beyond running
✓ Finding gratitude in hard things

Keywords: Shelby Dillingham, Shelby Dillingham ultrarunner, Tahoe 200, Tahoe 200 Endurance Run, Type 1 diabetes runner, Type 1 diabetes ultrarunning, diabetic athlete, running with diabetes, 200 mile ultramarathon, 200 mile race, ultrarunning, ultramarathon, trail running, endurance running, endurance athlete, insulin pump running, CGM running, Dexcom running, ultrarunning mindset, mental resilience, Tahoe ultrarunning, women in ultrarunning, running podcast, ultrarunning podcast, Pushing Horizons, Pushing Horizons Step by Step

This one is personal.

In just a few days, I'll attempt to run 100 miles for the first time at the Berlin Wall Race.

But this episode isn't really about the race. It's about how I somehow ended up here.

I never grew up dreaming of becoming a runner. I struggled with my weight for much of my life, never particularly enjoyed running, and originally found the sport after an injury in 2016. Running became a way to lose weight, then something I loved, then something that eventually took a back seat as life and family became the priority.

In November 2022, I started again with one goal: run a marathon.

Then I moved to Berlin.

I met ultrarunners whose persistence fascinated me. I started having conversations with people doing things I couldn't imagine doing myself. Those conversations eventually became Pushing Horizons.

And somewhere between interviewing ultrarunners, hearing their reasons for doing this, talking about DNFs and resilience, and learning what keeps people moving when things get really difficult, their stories started changing mine.

One podcast conversation led me to register for my first 56K the very next morning.

Another eventually led me to register for the Berlin 100 Miles.

Now, after seven months of training, the race is here.

I'm nervous. I'm excited. I'm unsettled. My mind is all over the place. After months of having another training week ahead of me, there's nothing left to prepare for. All that's left is to start.

And if you're listening to this on Saturday morning, I'm probably somewhere around Berlin trying to run my first 100 miles.

This is the story of how I got here.

Keywords: Berlin 100 Miles, Berlin Wall Race, 100 mile ultramarathon, first 100 miler, ultrarunning, ultramarathon training, 100 mile training, endurance running, running journey, marathon to ultramarathon, DNF, ultra running mindset, mental resilience, endurance mindset, Pushing Horizons podcast

Sierra DeGroff returns to Pushing Horizons with a story that goes far beyond race results.

In this episode, Sierra shares her journey through some of ultrarunning's most iconic events, including Western States 100, Badwater 135, Umstead 100, and Denali 135. We discuss the highs of course records and championship performances, the lows of races that didn't go to plan, being dropped by a sponsor, and the process of rebuilding confidence after setbacks.

Sierra opens up about the mental side of ultrarunning, why she keeps returning to difficult races, lessons learned from Badwater, what makes Western States so special, and how resilience is often built during the hardest moments rather than the best ones.

Whether you're training for your first ultra, chasing a personal best, or simply looking for inspiration to keep moving forward, this conversation is packed with lessons about persistence, growth, and believing in yourself when things get tough.

Topics Covered:

✅ Western States 100
✅ Badwater 135
✅ Denali 135
✅ Umstead 100
✅ Ultrarunning Mindset
✅ Mental Toughness
✅ Overcoming Setbacks
✅ Endurance Racing
✅ 100-Mile Racing Strategy
✅ Confidence & Resilience
✅ Training for Ultramarathons
✅ Women's Ultrarunning

Connect with Sierra DeGroff:
Instagram: @sdegroff

Follow Pushing Horizons: Step by Step
Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube and all major podcast platforms.

Keywords

Sierra DeGroff, Western States 100, Badwater 135, Denali 135, Umstead 100, ultrarunning podcast, endurance athlete, ultramarathon, trail running, 100 mile race, women in ultrarunning, mental toughness, endurance sports, ultrarunner interview, running podcast, ultramarathon training, ultrarunning mindset, Badwater race, Western States lottery, Denali race, ultra running motivation, endurance mindset, Pushing Horizons Podcast

Elite trail runner Caitlin Fielder joins Pushing Horizons to share her journey from marine science student and artist to competing against the best trail runners in the world.

We talk about starting running later than most elite athletes, recovering from major hip surgery, finding success at races like OCC, Tarawera, Zegama, and Western States, and why patience has become one of her greatest strengths.

Caitlin also opens up about racing through adversity, balancing life as a professional athlete, handling expectations, and why success means more than podium finishes.

Whether you're training for your first ultra or chasing your biggest running goals, this conversation is packed with insights about resilience, perspective, and running with purpose.

Topics Covered

• Starting trail running later in life
• Hip surgery and injury recovery
• Western States 100 experience
• UTMB OCC and international racing
• Tarawera Ultramarathon
• Zegama Marathon
• Elite athlete mindset
• Training and recovery
• Patience and long-term development
• Success beyond results
• Running and creativity
• Professional trail running

Keywords

Caitlin Fielder, trail running, ultrarunning, ultra marathon, Western States 100, Western States Endurance Run, UTMB, OCC, Tarawera Ultramarathon, Zegama Marathon, elite trail runner, women in ultrarunning, ultramarathon podcast, endurance sports, trail running motivation, injury recovery, running mindset, mountain running, ultrarunner interview, New Zealand trail runner, Pushing Horizons podcast, running with purpose, trail runner, endurance athlete

Season 3 Episode 20

The Joy of Hard Things

Kat Edwards Anderson has raced some of the toughest ultramarathons in the world, including Cocodona 250, Moab 240, Sedona Canyons 125, Kodiak 100M by UTMB, and Massanutten 100.

But this conversation isn't just about running farther.

It's about purpose, resilience, faith, embracing discomfort, and discovering what you're truly capable of when life becomes difficult.

We discuss her journey from quitting running after high school to becoming one of the rising names in ultrarunning, what 250-mile races teach you about yourself, dealing with sleep deprivation and hallucinations, overcoming mistakes, training for extreme endurance events, and why the hardest challenges often become the most rewarding experiences.

Whether you're training for your first ultramarathon, chasing a marathon PR, or simply looking for motivation to tackle life's biggest challenges, this episode is packed with honest lessons from someone who continues to push beyond her own limits.

Keywords:
ultrarunning, ultramarathon, trail running, Cocodona 250, Moab 240, Kate Edwards, endurance athlete, 200 mile race, 100 mile race, mountain running, ultrarunner, endurance mindset, resilience, mental toughness, running podcast, trail runner, endurance sports, ultramarathon training, Pushing Horizons, endurance inspiration

Season 3 Episode 19

Built for the Long Game

DJ Fox has become one of the most respected endurance athletes in ultrarunning.

After winning World's Toughest Mudder, setting the Colorado Trail West-to-East Fastest Known Time (FKT), and finishing on the podium at Cocodona 250 in 2026, DJ joins Pushing Horizons to share the mindset behind his success.

We discuss his life-changing illness that led him to running, leaving a secure corporate career to chase endurance sports full-time, winning a world championship, surviving multi-day adventures, and the lessons learned from running one of the toughest ultramarathons in the world.

DJ also breaks down his 10-hour improvement at Cocodona 250, the importance of crew and pacers, overcoming setbacks, and why he believes success comes from committing to the process rather than chasing outcomes.

If you're training for an ultramarathon, marathon, trail race, or simply looking to build resilience and discipline, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiration.

Keywords: DJ Fox, Cocodona 250, ultrarunning podcast, trail running, ultramarathon, endurance athlete, World's Toughest Mudder, Colorado Trail FKT, Cocodona 250 podium, ultra endurance, endurance mindset, running podcast, trail running podcast, endurance coaching, 200 mile race, mountain running, adventure running, resilience, mental toughness, Pushing Horizons.

Season 3 Episode 18: Finding Purpose Beyond the Finish Line

What happens when something that defines you comes to an end?

After an incredible 1,202-day running streak, James McDonald made one of the hardest decisions of his life: to stop running every day.

In this episode, James opens up about ending the streak, recovering from injury, finding his identity beyond consistency, completing his first 100-mile ultramarathon, and dealing with the disappointment of a recent DNF.

We also dive into ultramarathon training, fueling strategies, recovery, coaching, race planning, mental resilience, and why enjoying the process matters more than chasing finish lines.

Whether you're training for your first marathon, an ultramarathon, or simply trying to stay consistent in life, this conversation offers valuable lessons on discipline, balance, setbacks, and long-term growth.

Topics covered:

• 1,202-day running streak
• Why he chose to end it
• Identity beyond running
• First 100-mile ultramarathon
• Learning from a DNF
• Ultrarunning mindset
• Recovery and injury prevention
• Marathon and ultra training
• Nutrition and race fueling
• Mental resilience and consistency
• 
  

If you enjoy conversations about ultrarunning, endurance sports, marathon training, resilience, mindset, and pushing your limits, subscribe and follow Pushing Horizons: Step by Step for a new episode every week.

Keywords:
ultrarunning, ultramarathon, 100 mile race, 100 mile ultramarathon, running streak, 1202 day running streak, marathon training, ultramarathon training, endurance running, trail running, running podcast, ultrarunning podcast, endurance podcast, running motivation, mental resilience, consistency, discipline, DNF, overcoming failure, recovery, injury prevention, race nutrition, race fueling, endurance mindset, first 100 miler, Thames Path 100, MK24, James McDonald, Pushing Horizons, Pushing Horizons Podcast, marathon runner, endurance athlete, long distance running, running community, running inspiration, ultra runner interview, mental toughness, sports podcast, trail runner, adventure running

A year can change everything.

The last time Cody Poskin was on the podcast, he had just finished his first Cocodona 250. He crossed the finish line in 8th place after battling blown quads, brutal climbs, and the biggest challenge of his running career.

This year, he came back.

🥈 2nd Male
🥉 3rd Overall

More importantly, he finished 13 hours faster.

In this episode, Cody breaks down exactly what changed—from smarter training and race execution to sleep strategy, nutrition, crew support, and the mindset required to compete at the very front of one of the toughest ultramarathons in the world.

We also talk about learning from failure, becoming a professional athlete, chasing the Cocodona title, and why he's convinced his best race is still ahead of him.

If you love ultrarunning, endurance sports, or simply hearing what it takes to become better year after year, this episode is for you.

Topics covered:

• Cocodona 250 race recap
• How Cody improved by 13 hours
• 2nd Male & 3rd Overall finish
• Sleep strategy and pacing
• Nutrition mistakes and lessons
• Crew and pacers
• Mental resilience
• Becoming a professional ultrarunner
• What's next after Cocodona

Keywords: Cocodona 250, ultrarunning, ultramarathon, trail running, endurance running, 250 mile race, Cocodona podcast, Cody Poskin, running podcast, ultra endurance, race strategy, trail runner, endurance mindset, mountain running, long distance running.

In Season 3 Episode 16 of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, Ash sits down with Nepali ultrarunner Jeevan Lama to explore his incredible journey from the trails of Nepal to some of the world’s toughest mountain ultras.

Jeevan shares how running helped transform his life, keeping him away from destructive habits and giving him purpose through the mountains. The conversation dives into his experience racing UTMB events, the brutal technical terrain of the Alps, and his unforgettable battle at Tor des Géants (TOR), a 330km ultra through the Italian Alps.

They discuss suffering, race strategy, nutrition, mental resilience, and what it means to represent Nepal on the global trail running stage. Jeevan also shares his vision for growing trail running in Nepal and inspiring the next generation of mountain athletes.

Keywords: Jeevan Lama, Tor des Géants, TOR, UTMB, ultrarunning, trail running, Nepal trail running, mountain running, endurance sports, ultra marathon podcast, Pushing Horizons

In Season 3 Episode 15 of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, Ash sits down with Peyton for an honest conversation about injuries, setbacks, marathon struggles, and the mindset required to keep moving forward.

Peyton shares how her running journey began, the transition from shorter distances to long-distance racing, and the lessons she learned through recurring injuries and burnout. She opens up about the emotional side of being sidelined, the pressure of chasing personal records, and why sometimes the hardest part of running isn’t the miles — it’s staying mentally strong when things go wrong.

They also discuss half marathon and marathon training, endurance building, fueling strategies, avoiding the dreaded marathon bonk, and why consistency matters more than perfection.

This episode is for every runner who has ever struggled, doubted themselves, or wondered if setbacks were holding them back.

Topics covered:
Running motivation, marathon training, half marathon PR goals, injury recovery, mental health, endurance, race fueling, bonking, consistency, discipline, resilience, runner mindset.

Keywords: running podcast, marathon training, half marathon training, half marathon PR, marathon mindset, injury recovery, running injuries, endurance training, race fueling, marathon bonking, mental toughness, running motivation, runner mindset, consistency in training, long distance running, overcoming setbacks, resilience, road running, running community, Pushing Horizons podcast

In Season 3 Episode 14 of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, Ash sits down with ultrarunner Kaylee Frederick for a powerful conversation about endurance, discipline, mental resilience, and chasing seemingly impossible goals.

At just 21 years old, Kaylee has already built an extraordinary ultrarunning resume. She ran her first ultra at 14, completed her first 100 miler at 16, and became the youngest athlete to start Badwater 135, one of the toughest ultramarathons in the world.

In this episode, Kaylee opens up about her journey into ultrarunning, the brutal physical and mental demands of Badwater 135, elite 24-hour racing, race strategy, pacing, fueling, and the discipline required to perform at the highest level.

But this conversation goes deeper than race results.

Kaylee also shares her struggles with self-worth, identity, mental health, therapy, and the difficult process of learning that performance does not define who you are.

This is a raw and inspiring episode about human potential, suffering, growth, and what it truly means to keep moving forward when things get hard.

Topics covered:
• Ultrarunning
• Badwater 135
• 24-hour racing
• Endurance mindset
• Mental toughness
• Race strategy & fueling
• Discipline vs motivation
• Mental health in sport
• Identity beyond performance

Keywords: ultrarunning podcast, Badwater 135, Kaylee Frederick, ultramarathon, 100 mile race, 24 hour race, endurance athlete, mental resilience, running motivation, trail running podcast, ultra running mindset, endurance sports, Pushing Horizons podcast

What happens when a powerlifter decides to run 200 miles?

In Season 3 Episode 13 of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, Ash sits down with Grace Gilliam / Wakaii Chahatngan Tukon to explore a journey built on resilience, discipline, and relentless self-belief.

From growing up in a remote village with no cars or electricity, to becoming a Spartan racer, GORUCK athlete, powerlifter, and Mammoth 200 Endurance Run finisher, her story is extraordinary.

They talk about:

• Finishing Mammoth 200 while battling severe asthma
• Combining heavy lifting with ultrarunning
• Why strength training matters for endurance athletes
• Mental toughness during extreme suffering
• Learning to move with purpose through life’s obstacles

This is a conversation about choosing hard things and discovering what you’re truly capable of.

Keywords

ultrarunning, Mammoth 200, endurance sports, powerlifting, Spartan Race, GORUCK, mental toughness, trail running, resilience, 200 mile race, ultramarathon podcast, running motivation, strength training for runners

Timothy Bass returns to the podcast after completing one of the most demanding goals he has ever set for himself, running 5,111 miles in a single year.

In this episode, we look back at the physical and mental challenges of maintaining 100-mile weeks, what it took to stay consistent without a single rest day, and the lessons he learned about discipline, recovery, family, and identity.

We talk about the difference between motivation and drive, why consistency matters more than perfection, and how running continues to shape him as a father, husband, and human being.

This is a powerful conversation about commitment, resilience, and what happens when you choose to keep going long after the excitement fades.

Keywords: running podcast, long distance running, marathon training, ultrarunning mindset, discipline, consistency, mental resilience, fatherhood, endurance sports, Timothy Bass

What does it take to keep showing up for decades?

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, Ash sits down with ultrarunner Junko Kazukawa, a breast cancer survivor, coach, and one of the most experienced endurance athletes in the sport.

From completing Leadville 100 ten times to racing UTMB, Western States, and Tor des Géants, Junko has spent years pushing her physical and mental limits. But her story goes far beyond race results.

We talk about overcoming cancer, finding purpose through endurance, dealing with DNFs, aging in sport, the difference between pain and suffering, and why she continues to chase finish lines at 62 years old.

This episode is a masterclass in resilience, perspective, and the mindset required to keep moving forward when life gets difficult.

• Discovering ultrarunning after cancer

• Leadville 100 and racing 100-mile ultras

• UTMB and lessons from failure

• The psychology of suffering

• Aging and longevity in endurance sports

• Training smarter for long-term success

• Why purpose matters more than motivation

• What keeps her running after decades in the sport

ultrarunning, endurance sports, Leadville 100, UTMB, Western States, Tor des Géants, breast cancer survivor, running podcast, ultramarathon, trail running, resilience, mindset, endurance athlete, women in ultrarunning, aging athletes, ultrarunner interview, long distance running, running motivation, endurance mindset, Pushing Horizons

Topics CoveredKeywords

What does it take to stay competitive after more than two decades in the sport?

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, Ash sits down with elite ultrarunner Addie Bracy to discuss longevity, adaptation, setbacks, and the constant pursuit of improvement.

From her early days in running to competing at some of the biggest ultramarathons in the world, Addie shares lessons learned from both success and disappointment. We dive into aging as an athlete, burnout, confidence, race-day execution, coaching, fueling, mental resilience, and why curiosity remains one of her greatest strengths after 25 years in the sport.

This conversation is a reminder that growth doesn't stop when you reach the top. Sometimes the challenge is learning how to keep evolving.

Topics Covered:

• Ultrarunning longevity
• Western States and elite competition
• Aging in endurance sports
• Mental resilience during tough races
• Fueling and race execution
• Coaching and athlete development
• Learning from bad races
• Staying motivated after decades of running
• Adaptation and continuous improvement
• The future of ultrarunning

Keywords:

ultrarunning, trail running, Addie Bracy, Western States 100, endurance sports, ultra marathon, trail runner, running podcast, endurance mindset, ultramarathon training, coaching runners, female ultrarunner, running longevity, 100 mile race, trail running community, Pushing Horizons Podcast

What does it take to balance elite ultrarunning with motherhood?

In this episode, I sit down with Careth Arnold, one of the top-ranked ultrarunners in the United States, to talk about her journey from a recreational runner and mother of two to competing at some of the biggest trail and ultramarathon races in the world.

We discuss her rapid rise in the sport, 100-mile racing, Western States, TDS, Hardrock, training while raising young children, overcoming setbacks, dealing with DNFs, race nutrition struggles, and the mindset required to keep showing up when things don't go as planned.

Careth shares why every race is just another brick in the wall she's building, what success means to her, and how motherhood has shaped her approach to endurance and life.

Whether you're an ultrarunner, trail runner, parent, or someone chasing ambitious goals, this conversation is packed with lessons about resilience, consistency, and pushing beyond perceived limits.

• Ultrarunning and motherhood
• 100-mile races
• Western States 100
• TDS by UTMB
• Hardrock 100
• Trail running mindset
• Dealing with failure and DNFs
• Nutrition challenges in ultras
• Training while raising children
• Endurance, resilience, and growth

Careth Arnold, ultrarunning, trail running, ultramarathon, 100 mile race, Hardrock 100, Western States 100, TDS UTMB, motherhood, women in sport, endurance athlete, trail runner podcast, running podcast, ultrarunner interview, mountain running, endurance mindset, ultra trail running, female ultrarunner, running motivation, Pushing Horizons Podcast

Topics Covered:Keywords

In Season 3 Episode 8 of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, Ash sits down with ultra runner and former Royal Marines Commando Charlie Shelbourne for a deep conversation about endurance, suffering, and pushing human limits.

From completing Marathon des Sables in the Sahara Desert to taking on the brutal Dragon’s Back Race across Wales and the Arc of Attrition 100 mile race by UTMB, Charlie shares the highs, the failures, the mistakes, and the mindset behind ultra endurance racing.

This episode covers:

• Marathon des Sables 2024
• Dragon’s Back Race 2024
• Arc of Attrition 100 by UTMB
• Ultra Trail Snowdonia 100K
• Ultra running mindset
• Military discipline and endurance
• Fueling mistakes and race nutrition
• Running through the night
• Sleep deprivation and hallucinations
• Mountain running and elevation training
• The psychology of endurance sports

If you enjoy conversations about ultra marathons, trail running, endurance mindset, and adventure racing, this episode is packed with honest insight and real experience from the pain cave.

Keywords: ultra running podcast, ultramarathon podcast, Marathon des Sables, Dragon’s Back Race, Arc of Attrition, UTMB, trail running podcast, endurance sports, mountain ultras, 100 miler, endurance mindset, ultra runner interview, adventure racing, running motivation, ultra marathon training.

What does it take to keep showing up at the edge of human possibility?

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, Ash sits down with John Kelly, Barkley Marathons finisher, endurance athlete, data scientist, and one of the most thoughtful minds in ultra running.

From the psychological challenge of Barkley to the loneliness of multi-day races, John opens up about failure, resilience, discomfort, uncertainty, and why hard things still matter in a world built around convenience.

We also dive into:

• The mental side of ultra running
• Learning through DNFs and setbacks
• Barkley Marathons preparation and strategy
• Data vs instinct in endurance sports
• Appalachian Trail FKT attempt
• The difference between pain and danger
• Why suffering can create growth
• Comfort culture and modern life
• Motivation, limits, and human potential

This is more than a running conversation. It’s about understanding yourself when things get hard.

🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube.

#ultrarunning #barkleymarathons #trailrunning #endurance #podcast #runningpodcast #ultramarathon #johnkelly #mindset #runningmotivation #endurancesports #pushinghorizons #pushinghorizonsstepbystep #pushinghorizonspodcast #podcastforrunners

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, ultra runner and Merrell athlete Mercedes Siegle-Gaither joins the podcast to talk about ultra running, 100 mile races, trail running mindset, endurance training, and the mental side of ultramarathons.

We discuss:

• 50 mile vs 100 mile racing
• ultra marathon mindset
• technical mountain running
• DNF lessons
• fueling and hydration mistakes
• HRV, recovery, and training data
• women in ultra running
• pressure in competitive trail races
• Leadville 100 and Hurt 100
• preparing for Arc of Attrition
• overcoming self doubt in endurance sports

Mercedes shares honest insights into racing difficult ultras, handling setbacks, and learning what it takes to keep going during long endurance events.

If you enjoy conversations about trail running, ultramarathons, endurance sports, mindset, and long distance racing, this episode is for you.

#ultrarunning #trailrunning #ultramarathon #100miler #endurancesports #runningpodcast #mountainrunning #trailrunner #leadville100 #hurt100 #pushinghorizons #pushinghorizonsstepbystep #pushinghorizonspodcast #podcastforrunners

What does it take to go from self-doubt to self-belief?

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, we dive into the real journey behind ultrarunning: not the podiums, not the highlight reels, but the internal shift that happens when you stop asking “Can I?” and start saying “Let’s see.”

This conversation explores the mental battles, DNFs, emotional moments, and personal growth that come with pushing beyond limits. It’s about embracing discomfort, learning from failure, and discovering who you become on the other side of the miles.

If you’ve ever doubted yourself, struggled to stay consistent, or wondered what you’re truly capable of, this episode is for you.

Keywords:

ultrarunning, endurance mindset, running podcast, mental toughness, ultramarathon training, overcoming doubt, running motivation, endurance sports, trail running, personal growth, pain cave, running journey, resilience, long distance running, pushing limits

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, Ash sits down with Roger, CEO of SQUEEZY Nutrition and one of the pioneers of endurance fueling in Europe, to break down the fundamentals of fueling for performance.

Roger shares over 30 years of experience in sports nutrition, starting from introducing energy gels in Germany in the early 1990s to working with athletes across endurance disciplines today.

This conversation focuses on the basics most runners overlook, how the body actually produces energy, why fueling matters, and the common mistakes that lead to fatigue, bonking, and poor performance.

If you’ve ever wondered how much you should eat during a run, why energy crashes happen, or how to build a proper fueling strategy, this episode gives you a clear and practical starting point.

Topics covered:

• Energy systems explained (glycogen vs fat)
• Why fueling is essential for endurance performance
• How many carbs you actually need
• Common fueling mistakes runners make
• Why copying others doesn’t work
• The importance of individualized fueling

This is Part 1 of a deeper series on endurance fueling.

Keywords:
endurance fueling, running nutrition, marathon fueling strategy, ultra running nutrition, glycogen depletion, bonking, carbs per hour, hydration for runners, sports nutrition basics, fueling mistakes runners make, SQUEEZY nutrition, energy gels history

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, I sit down with Nicole Linke: an ultrarunner who returned to running after 8 years away and went from self-doubt to completing some of the toughest endurance races out there.

From her first 61K in 2021 to conquering 100 milers, 24-hour races, backyard ultras, and the brutal CCC at UTMB, Nicole’s journey is raw, honest, and powerful. We talk about fear, resilience, eating disorders, self-belief, and what it really takes to push past your limits.

This is not a story about instant confidence.
It’s about showing up anyway.

If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re capable: this one hits hard.

Keywords: ultrarunning, Nicole Linke, CCC UTMB, backyard ultra, 100 miler, endurance mindset, trail running, ultra marathon training, mental strength, running podcast, resilience, German ultrarunner, long distance running, pushing limits

After winning Moab 200, setting a new Triple Crown overall time record, and completing one of the most brutal challenges in ultrarunning, Kilian Korth returns to the podcast.

In this episode, we go beyond the headlines.

We break down what it actually took to execute across Tahoe 200, Bigfoot 200, and Moab 200, how strategy shifted under pressure, and what changed mentally once “delusional self-belief” became undeniable proof.

We talk about:

• The reality of racing Moab in extreme conditions
• Chasing a record vs chasing execution
• The cost of stacking 200-mile races in one season
• The moment everything changed after crossing the finish line
• Sudden growth, attention, and becoming a full-time athlete
• Why success didn’t feel like an ending

This is not just about winning.
It’s about what happens after you prove yourself right.

Keywords

ultrarunning, Moab 200, Tahoe 200, Bigfoot 200, Triple Crown ultrarunning, endurance mindset, ultra marathon podcast, Cocodona 250, trail running, endurance athlete mindset, running podcast, long distance running, ultramarathon training, mental toughness

What does it take to win one of the toughest ultramarathons in the world?

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, we sit down with Rebecca Rick, who claimed 1st place female at Moab 240 Endurance Run (2025) after finishing 2nd the year before.

From pushing through 240 miles of desert terrain to managing sleep deprivation, pain, and mental breakdowns, Rebecca shares what it really takes to operate at the edge of human endurance.

We go deep into:

• The mindset behind running 200+ mile races
• Lessons from Moab 240 and Tahoe 200
• Sleep strategy, hallucinations, and staying mentally sharp
• Fueling and recovery after multi-day efforts
• Why pushing limits reveals who you truly are

This is not just about running. This is about discovering what you're capable of when quitting is no longer an option.

Keywords: ultrarunning, Moab 240, Tahoe 200, endurance mindset, trail running, 200 mile race, ultra marathon training, sleep deprivation, running podcast, endurance athletes

Episode 50 marks the Season 2 finale of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step.

“Dreams Into Reality” returns, but this time it means something different.

Over this season, the conversations went deeper. Stories of endurance, failure, resilience, and stepping into the unknown started to hit differently. Listening to people push beyond what feels possible doesn’t just inspire you. It forces you to question your own limits.

This episode is a reflection on that shift.

From hearing journeys of ultrarunners and athletes who chose discomfort over safety… to making that same decision personally.

With a 100K race just weeks away and a 100-mile race on the horizon, this is where things start to become real.

This is not about being ready.
It’s about stepping into it anyway.

Season 2 closes here.
Season 3 builds from it.

Keywords:

ultrarunning podcast, dreams into reality, endurance mindset, 100k training, 100 mile race, stepping out of comfort zone, running motivation, mental toughness, ultramarathon journey, growth mindset, endurance athletes, pushing limits, running podcast Berlin, self improvement, endurance stories

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, we dive deep into the journey of an athlete who pushed the limits of human endurance at Big’s Backyard Ultra, completing an incredible 113 loops (≈758 km / 471 miles) and finishing second.

We explore what it really takes to survive multiple days of running , from sleep deprivation and hallucinations to the mental battles that define ultra endurance. This conversation goes beyond performance and into the mindset required to keep going when everything in you wants to stop.

From discovering ultra running later in life to competing against some of the best in the world, this episode is about resilience, persistence, and redefining limits.

If you’re a runner, an endurance athlete, or someone chasing something bigger in life, this one will stay with you.

🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

Keywords

ultrarunning, backyard ultra, bigs backyard ultra, endurance mindset, mental toughness, ultra marathon podcast, running podcast, sleep deprivation running, endurance athletes, pushing limits, long distance running, ultra runner story, trail running, endurance training, mindset and performance

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, we sit down with ultra runner Emilie Mann to explore the mindset behind racing some of the toughest ultra marathons in the world.

From 50K mountain races to 100 mile ultras like Run Rabbit Run, Emilie shares her experience racing globally, including events like Ultra-Trail Cape Town, Black Canyon 100K, and Desert RATS.

This conversation goes beyond results and performance. It dives into the mental side of endurance, staying present during long races, handling setbacks, and continuing forward when things don’t go as planned.

In this episode, we cover:

• 100 mile race mindset and execution
• Training and preparation for ultra marathons
• UTMB and international trail racing experience
• Dealing with setbacks, DNFs, and race-day challenges
• The importance of staying present in endurance sports

Whether you’re preparing for your first ultra, training for a 100K or 100 mile race, or looking to understand what drives elite endurance athletes, this episode delivers real insight from someone who has lived it.

Keywords:
Emilie Mann, ultra marathon, 100 mile race, trail running, UTMB, ultra trail running, endurance mindset, mountain running, 100k race, ultra running podcast, running motivation, trail race strategy, endurance training, Run Rabbit Run 100, Black Canyon 100K, Ultra Trail Cape Town

Megan Eckert returns to Pushing Horizons: Step by Step after an incredible performance at Big’s Backyard Ultra, where she pushed through brutal weather, extreme sleep deprivation, and over 90 hours of continuous running.

In this episode, we break down what it truly takes to survive one of the toughest endurance formats in the world. From running through storms and collapsing tents to battling the mental effects of sleep deprivation, this is a raw and honest conversation about resilience, limits, and the mindset required to keep going when everything inside you wants to stop.

This episode goes beyond performance , it dives deep into the psychology of endurance and what happens when your body can still move, but your mind starts to fade.

Keywords: Big’s Backyard Ultra, ultrarunning, Megan Eckert, endurance mindset, sleep deprivation running, backyard ultra strategy, mental toughness, ultramarathon podcast, Lazarus Lake, Harvey Lewis, long distance running, endurance athletes, pushing horizons podcast

What does it really take to run the perfect ultra race?

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, we sit down with one of the most analytical and consistent endurance athletes in the sport to break down the science, strategy, and mindset behind elite ultra running performance.

From 24-hour racing and 100-mile ultras to marathon-level speed, this conversation dives deep into how data, pacing, and intuition come together to create optimal performance.

We explore:

• The concept of negative splitting in ultra marathons

• How to pace correctly for 100-mile and 24-hour races

• The balance between data-driven decisions and instinct

• Why most runners start too fast and pay for it later

• How to train smarter, recover faster, and stay consistent long-term

• The mental shift required to move from surviving to performing

This episode challenges conventional ultra running advice and offers a completely different framework for approaching endurance racing.

If you’re training for an ultra, marathon, or looking to improve your endurance strategy, this is a must-listen.

Keywords

ultra running, ultra marathon training, negative split ultra, endurance training, 100 mile race strategy, 24 hour race, pacing strategy running, marathon training, endurance mindset, trail running, ultra runner tips, running podcast, performance optimization, long distance running, running strategy, data driven running

In Season 2 Episode 45 of Pushing Horizons: Steps by Steps, Ash sits down with an inspiring runner whose life revolves around discipline, resilience, and the simple act of putting one foot in front of the other.

A single mother balancing work, parenting, and intense endurance training, she logs up to 300 miles per month, wakes up at 3 AM to run, and has taken on brutal endurance challenges including the David Goggins 4x4x48 challenge, five half marathons in one week, and a self-planned 50K ultramarathon.

But for her, running is not about podiums or personal records. Running is therapy.

In this conversation, we dive into the mental side of endurance, how running helps navigate life’s toughest moments, and how discipline built on the road translates into strength in everyday life.

This episode explores the intersection of endurance sports, mental health, single parenthood, and resilience.

If you’ve ever wondered why people push themselves to extreme distances, this episode will give you the answer.

running podcast, endurance running, ultrarunning mindset, 50k ultramarathon story, goggins 4x4x48 challenge, discipline in running, single mom runner, mental strength running, endurance athlete story, marathon training motivation, running as therapy, pushing horizons podcast

SEO Keywords

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, we explore one of the most overlooked topics in endurance sports: when passion slowly turns into burnout.

Many runners believe that more mileage, harder training, and constant racing are the keys to improvement. But what happens when the body and mind can no longer keep up?

This conversation dives deep into the realities of endurance training, including overtraining, recovery, fueling strategies, RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport), and the pressure created by social media culture in running.

We discuss how athletes can build sustainable training habits, recognize early signs of burnout, and develop a healthier relationship with performance.

If you are training for marathons, ultras, or simply trying to improve as a runner, this episode offers powerful insights into how to push your limits without breaking yourself.

endurance sports, ultrarunning podcast, running burnout, overtraining syndrome, RED-S in athletes, fueling for endurance, sports nutrition, ultramarathon training, recovery for runners, endurance mindset, marathon training tips, running podcast, pushing horizons podcast

Keywords (SEO)

In this powerful episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, Hilary Allen shares her journey from being ranked world number one in skyrunning to surviving a 150-foot fall during a race in Norway.

We talk about trauma, recovery, identity, mental resilience, and the choice to believe in yourself when everything feels lost.

Hilary opens up about fear, redefining success, sports psychology, returning to elite competition, and how adversity reshaped her purpose as an athlete and human.

This conversation explores ultrarunning, comeback stories, mindset training, endurance culture, vulnerability, and the power of belief.

If you’re navigating injury, setbacks, or questioning your limits this episode will stay with you.

Keywords: ultrarunning podcast, resilience, Hilary Allen, skyrunning, comeback story, endurance mindset, mental toughness, sports psychology, trauma recovery, trail running, motivation.

In Season 2 Episode 42 of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, we sit down with professional trail runner Robyn Lesh to unpack her journey from believing she “couldn’t run” to finishing 7th at CCC (UTMB), one of the most competitive 100K mountain races in the world.

We dive deep into ultra running mindset, pacing strategy, racing 100K with 6,000m of elevation gain, handling low moments, recovery after ultras, and a powerful reframing of the 100-mile distance.

This episode is about resilience, mental strength, perspective, and why “hard” is exactly the point.

Keywords: ultrarunning podcast, CCC 100K, UTMB, trail running mindset, women in ultrarunning, 100 mile strategy, pacing ultras, mountain running, endurance performance, recovery after 100K.

Last time I spoke to him, he had just finished Cocodona 250 tested, humbled, hungry for more.

Now he returns after winning the Gobi 240.

Four hundred kilometers across the desert. Self-navigated. Self-supported. No crew. No pacers. Just checkpoints, a GPS watch, and long stretches of silence where your mind becomes your biggest opponent.

In this episode, we break down what it really takes to win a race like Gobi 240. The navigation mistakes. The sleep deprivation. The nutrition struggles. The moment he got lost in the middle of the night. And the final kilometers walked on blown-up shins.

This is not just about podiuming an ultramarathon.

It’s about growth.
It’s about learning from Cocodona.
It’s about suffering smarter.
And it’s about understanding that endurance is more than physical strength, it’s decision-making under pressure.

If you care about ultrarunning, mindset, resilience, desert racing, or pushing beyond what you think is possible, this one is for you.

Keywords: Gobi 240, ultrarunning, 400km race, desert ultramarathon, self-supported race, self-navigated ultra, endurance mindset, Cocodona 250, long distance running, mental toughness, ultra endurance, sleep deprivation, trail running podcast.

She didn’t start the year chasing a record.
She started the year questioning if she even wanted to keep running.

Then she ran the 200-mile Triple Crown.
Tahoe 200. Bigfoot 200. Moab 240.

Three races. Four months. And she broke the women’s Triple Crown record.

But this episode is not about the record.

It’s about what it takes to stay calm when you’re injured.
To remove comparison.
To ignore the noise.
To trust your own process when it looks nothing like everyone else’s.

We talk about racing 200+ miles, training through doubt, why presence matters more than pressure, and how staying mentally steady can carry you further than speed ever will.

If you’re chasing something big or rebuilding after thinking it was over, this conversation will hit home.

Keywords: ultrarunning, 200 mile races, triple crown of 200s, women in endurance, mental strength, trail running, consistency, injury comeback, presence mindset, Moab 240, Tahoe 200, Bigfoot 200, endurance psychology, long distance racing, record breaker.

What happens when running stops being about pace, and becomes about freedom?

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, we sit down with one of the UK’s most accomplished ultrarunners to talk about mental strength, 100-mile races, mountain adventures, DNFs, and the deeper reasons behind pushing limits.

From early 50-mile races in Wales to multiple 100-mile victories, podium finishes, and a top-5 finish at the brutal Dragon’s Back Race (380km), this conversation dives into:

• The mental resilience behind ultrarunning

• What really happens during 100-mile races

• How DNFs shape stronger athletes

• Why trail running builds confidence

• Raising over £10,000 for charity through running

• Women in ultrarunning and representation

• Using endurance sport to support mental health

This is a raw, honest look at what it takes to go far, and why distance can become freedom.

Keywords: ultrarunning podcast, 100 mile race, trail running, women in ultrarunning, Dragon’s Back Race, mental resilience, endurance mindset, UK trail running, charity running, mountain running, DNF lessons, long distance running motivation.

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, we dive into an inspiring trail running journey that began in 2023 and quickly escalated into completing some of Hong Kong’s toughest ultra races.

From a first 19km race to finishing the HK100 (103km, 5314m elevation gain), TransLantau 100K, and the brutal HK100 Grand Sam (192km over three days with 8750m elevation gain), this story is about resilience, grit, and community.

Working 12–15 hour days as a domestic helper in Hong Kong, training at 4AM on city roads, and pushing through exhaustion at checkpoint 56km, this episode explores what it truly takes to become an ultrarunner.

We also discuss:

• The mental battle during multi-day ultras

• Training with limited time and access to trails

• The Exchange and Empower Trail Running Scholarship

• Being an ambassador for She Races, Hong Kong’s first female-focused trail race

• Why community matters in trail running

• Using running for mental health and personal growth

If you’re into ultrarunning, trail running, women in sports, HK100, TransLantau, World Trail Majors, endurance mindset, and overcoming adversity, this episode is for you.

In this episode, I sit down with Josh McDole, ultrarunner and 2025 Triple Crown of 200s finisher. We dive deep into what it really takes to complete Zion 100, Cocodona 250, Tahoe 200, Bigfoot 200, and Moab 240, all in a single season.

We talk about:

• Running 200+ miles through mountains and desert

• Night four sleep deprivation and hallucinations

• Mental toughness vs physical endurance

• Fueling, recovery, and race strategy

• The emotional moment at mile 200 that changed everything

• What happens when quitting is no longer an option

This is not just about ultramarathons. It’s about mindset, identity, suffering, and what you discover about yourself when everything is stripped away.

If you're training for a 100 miler, a 200 miler, Cocodona 250, Moab 240, or chasing your own version of hard, this conversation will hit home.

#ultrarunning #200miles #moab240 #cocodona250 #trailrunning #ultramarathon #mentalstrength #endurancesports

What happens when fitness stops being something you do and starts becoming who you are?

In this episode, I sit down with Jon to unpack a journey that moved from team sport to solo endurance. From discovering running after football ended, to tackling 24-hour races, hundred milers, brutal mountain ultras, and completing all six World Marathon Majors, this conversation goes far beyond finish times.

We talk honestly about ego, pressure, sponsorship expectations, injuries, burnout, and the thin line between loving the process and being consumed by it. Jon opens up about why ultra running felt different, how community changed his perspective, and why setbacks don’t mean failure, they mean adjustment.

This episode is about endurance, identity, resilience, and learning when to push and when to step back.

If running has ever felt like more than just training, this one will resonate.

Keywords:
ultra running, marathon running, endurance mindset, running identity, mental resilience, ultra marathon training, world marathon majors, trail running, race strategy, running community, injury comeback, athlete mindset

Not every race ends at the finish line.
Some end with a decision.

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, we dive into the realities of ultrarunning beyond results. We talk about building mental strength through failure, learning from DNFs, and why knowing when to stop can be just as powerful as pushing through.

This conversation covers the full picture:
mindset under pressure, fueling and nutrition, training through uncertainty, racing in extreme environments, and running with purpose through charity-driven events.

An episode about resilience, self-awareness, and the strength that’s built in the dark moments most people never see.

Perfect for runners, endurance athletes, and anyone navigating hard seasons while still choosing to move forward.

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, we explore what happens when joy, not ego, becomes the driving force behind running.

This conversation dives deep into the mental side of ultrarunning, including DNFs, burnout, loss of motivation, and the pressure to constantly perform. We talk about why some races fall apart despite perfect preparation, how life context affects performance, and why stepping back can sometimes be the strongest move forward.

This episode is for runners who have questioned their love for the sport, struggled after a tough race, or felt disconnected from why they started running at all.

Topics covered:

• Running through joy vs running to prove something

• DNFs, burnout, and emotional recovery

• Why mindset matters more than fitness over long distances

• Community, perspective, and long-term sustainability in running

• Finding meaning beyond results and finish lines

🎧 A raw, honest conversation for runners who want to stay in the sport for the long run.

Keywords:
ultrarunning podcast, running mindset, DNF recovery, endurance mindset, trail running podcast, running motivation, mental toughness, joy in running, pushing horizons podcast

What keeps someone going when the race stretches beyond 100 kilometers, the body starts to fail, and quitting would be the easy option?

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, we explore what it really means to find joy inside suffering. This is a deep, honest conversation about ultrarunning, long-distance racing, and the mindset required to stay calm when things go wrong.

We talk about UTMB, Hardrock 100, Tor des Géants, multi-day racing, pressure at the front of the pack, and how to stay grounded as expectations rise. Beyond races, this episode dives into purpose, identity, resilience, and why joy still matters even in the hardest moments.

This one isn’t about glorifying pain.
It’s about understanding it, working with it, and learning how to keep going without losing yourself.

Keywords:
ultrarunning podcast, trail running, endurance mindset, UTMB, Hardrock 100, Tor des Géants, women in ultrarunning, mental toughness, endurance psychology, long distance running, mountain running, resilience, pushing horizons podcast