Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Human Potential Running Series Podcast

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series Podcast.

In Episode 73, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix sits down with Andrew Buck Michael, a meteorologist from Ohio and host of the Weathering the Run podcast. Together, they explore the strange and beautiful relationship between weather, running, and resilience; and how much of our training happens in conditions we can't control.

Andrew shares how he grew up on an Ohio farm watching storm clouds roll in with his dad, how that early curiosity turned into a career in broadcast meteorology, and how running became the outlet that grounded him through it all. The two dive into the mindset of runners who head out when most people stay inside; the ones who face heat, cold, wind, and storms not because they have to, but because something in them needs to.

They talk about how weather shapes us as runners and as humans. How unpredictability forces adaptability. How the trails teach us acceptance. There's also plenty of laughter, nerding out about radar models, talk about GIS maps, and reflections on parenting, balance, and what it means to stay in motion when life gets messy.

If you've ever run through rain just to see what you're made of, or found calm in a snowstorm miles from home, you'll feel right at home in this episode.

And while you're at it, check out Andrew's show, Weathering the Run, for more stories from runners who know what it means to lean into the elements.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. In Episode 72, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix discusses the power of civil discourse, the importance of empathy, and the enduring impact of national events on our community. John reflects on the legacy of September 11th, the recent tragedy involving Charlie Kirk, and the value of open-minded conversation, even with those we may disagree with. He also shares personal stories from his two decades in trail and ultra running, exploring the roots and evolution of the sport, the challenges of advocacy, and what it means to protect the heart and soul of the running community. The episode is rounded out by updates from John's advocacy efforts, which highlight major changes to permitting and insurance requirements that will have huge implications across the sport. Join us for a thought-provoking, heartfelt episode that invites listeners to consider the true meaning of unity, resilience, and the spirit of ultra running.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 71, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix and co-hosts Thomas Stott and Megan Storms reveal an exciting project spearheaded by Tommy. In this episode, we crack open a big idea: the future Human Potential documentary. Not a highlight reel. Not a brag piece. But a raw, honest exploration of what it really means to show up on trails, in all your humanness, and become something more.

John shares the deeper vision behind the project and how it connects to our core belief in Human Potential. They discuss a 10-part docuseries unfolding across the 2026 season, from RegFest to finish lines and the messy middle in between, which has now morphed into a feature film. 

We talk about the "why" behind it:

• To show the human side of trail adventures, not just the triumphs

• To explore what people find out there when they're willing to go all in

• To give outsiders a real answer to "Why would anyone do this?"

• To help our own community reflect on what their journey means

We're starting to gather footage now, and we're looking for folks in the HPRS community who are willing to be part of it. You don't need to be fast. You don't need to be flashy. We're looking for:

• Grit

• Vulnerability

• People who are willing to go deep

• And your real, natural self on camera

If that sounds like you, or someone you know, reach out. This is a story we're telling together.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 70, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix and co-hosts Thomas Stott and Megan Storms dive into thermoregulation at endurance events; how to keep your core temperature in the sweet spot, whether you're racing in searing heat or bone-chilling cold. After a quick host check-in (including congrats to Stormy for receiving the Amazing Nurses Award), we break down:

• How to know if you "run warm" or "run cold"

• Pre-race prep: climate research, training in heat or cold, contrast baths, breathwork

• In-race strategies: clothing, fluids, electrolytes, food choices, and drop-bag essentials

• Self-checks and prevention: positive self-talk, pacer chats, recognizing shivering and slurred speech before things spiral

• Aid station tactics: warming layers, fluids, and rest to reset your nervous system

At the core is one theme, intention and prevention. Learn practical ways to stay safe, steady, and perform strongly when the elements test you.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 69, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix and co-hosts Thomas Stott and Megan Storms discuss the word of doom, "Injuries." Injuries are never on the training plan, but every runner eventually faces them. What matters most is how you respond in the first few minutes, the first few days, and the weeks that follow. In this episode, we walk through the full arc of dealing with an injury, from that initial "uh-oh" moment to your first cautious steps back on the trail. Topics include:

• Triage on the Spot: How to tell if it's a soft-tissue tweak or a hospital trip.

• Mindset Matters: Why your brain chemistry shifts in the first five minutes, and how to ground yourself in what to do now.

• Training Setback → Opportunity: Reframing your outlook, setting up support, and dropping the unnecessary stress of "racing through it."

• The Real Return-to-Run Checklist: It's not just about time. We dig into pain-free walking, stairs, range of motion, strength, eccentric control, and even hopping tests before lacing up again.

• Protocols that Work: Run-walk reintroductions, flat terrain starts, and why consistency still trumps intensity. Plus, surprising strategies like gentle uphills (for everyone except Achilles injuries).

• The Nintendo Reset Button: Use downtime to build where you've been weak—slower paces, mobility, breathwork, hydration, connective tissue health.

• Healing on Nature's Timeline: Understanding the cellular phases of repair—inflammatory (days), proliferation (weeks), remodeling (months)—so you can respect the process instead of fighting it.

Whether you're sidelined today or just want tools for the future, this episode is a guide to resilience, patience, and coming back stronger.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 68, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix and co-hosts Thomas Stott and Megan Storms each give their top five trail running tips for new runners, which also happen to be great reminders for seasoned veterans as well. From mental aspects to sage training advice, gear recommendations, and nutrition guidance, each host shares their tips and strategies to promote a lifetime of healthy choices within running.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. In this deeply personal Episode 67, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix shares a story he's never told publicly, until now. After a lifetime of masking and adapting to neurotypical expectations, John opens up about his recent diagnoses of ADHD (Combined Type) and Autism (Level 1). This isn't just a story about neurodivergence; it's a reckoning with leadership, identity, and the cost of pretending to be someone you're not. You'll hear how John's neurodivergence has shaped everything from race-day logistics to how he handles noise, social interaction, and emotional bandwidth. He talks candidly about Autistic Burnout and the hidden work of masking. This episode is a call to unmask; not just for him, but for all of us. It's an invitation to build a trail community where everyone belongs, regardless of how they blend in. If you've ever felt "too much" or "not enough"… this one's for you.

Topics include:

• What it means to be neurodivergent in leadership

• ADHD and Autism through a personal lens

• The invisible cost of masking in trail culture

• How HPRS is evolving to reflect sustainable leadership

• The Community Roundtable (CRT) and a shared vision for the future

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 66, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix discusses change and transitions. Change can be terrifying to the point that some people avoid it. It can also be necessary to grow. Transition is a word that can better describe change in a positive light. In this episode, John discusses aspects of the ultrarunning community that need to change for the sport to evolve. John also discusses how these aspects have affected his desire to self-identify as an ultrarunner, and how it ultimately leads to a period of transition at HPRS that will occur over the next 2-4 years. This is a heavy, incredibly personal episode, recounting challenging situations that have led to decisions that will affect the HPRS community for years to come.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 65, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix and co-host Thomas Stott discuss a wide range of thoughts about race preparation strategies. Together, they take us on a journey from beginner training plans to using races as training. They tackle ego versus mindset, how one can be destructive on your journey and the other the base of your foundation. They tackle movement streaks, body and brain recovery, and what truly matters in the race prep journey. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 64, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix welcomes special guest co-host Derek Talbott from The Shifted Hunter. In this episode, John and Derek combine their two shows to discuss recent concerns about public land. In this robust conversation, they discuss the growing threats to public land access and why hunters, runners, and outdoor communities need to unite. They explore: The politics behind land transfers and sales, why this issue affects hunters, anglers, and trail users alike, what we can do to protect these wild spaces, how two very different communities are fighting for the same cause, whether you're chasing elk or finish lines, this episode is for you.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 63, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix welcomes special guest co-host Christopher Mellott. In this episode, John and Chris define what a mantra is. They provide various examples of the multitude of mantras that exist in the world. Then they turn to a conversation on how mantras can be turned into action, helping you achieve your athletic goals. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 62, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix welcomes special guest co-host Christopher Mellott. In this episode, they discuss Care, Concern, and Accountability, and balancing all three when runners cheat or if a race participant or volunteer behaves negatively. They also discuss why rules matter and the distinction between the spirit of the rule versus the letter of the rule. An interesting conversation that explores the facets of ego, character, and integrity, as well as what happens when something negative reaches the court of public opinion.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 61, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix and co-host Thomas Stott give updates on the Silverheels Trail Runs Permitting process before diving into a conversation about chasing an experience (the journey) rather than a destination. They discuss how people tend to become good at helping others meet their needs along the way and how that helps individuals find what they've lost or need while in the mountains. They also discuss the differences between introverted and extroverted trail runners, how to recognize the signs of one over the other, and how to be respectful of one another's "bubble" while on the trail. 

In this special edition of the HPRS Podcast, Race Director John Lacroix discusses the framework of community within ultramarathon running from 20 years ago, the two pockets that currently divide the sport, and how the behaviors of a small subset of runners within the community threaten to tear what remains of the community apart. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 60, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix brings us full circle on how our federal land management partners' current issues could negatively impact trail and ultra events. During the discussion, John highlights the timeline from June 2023 to the Present in discussing how we arrived at this moment and the real-life ramifications of budget shortfalls, cuts, and worker layoffs could have on our sport. John then expresses the importance of continued advocacy by our user group and being intentional by doing more to give back to the agencies that have afforded us the use of public lands for our events and those like them and the need to stop requesting new permits or permits for events with greater impacts. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 59, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix and co-hosts Thomas Stott and Megan Storms, dive into Belongingness Theory. In this episode, the trio explores what it means to belong. Deeper than that, we discuss the importance of belonging and the many ways in which HPRS promotes and supports belonging within our series. Also discussed is Dunbar's Number, a concept that discusses how many meaningful connections each of us is able to make. A thought-provoking episode on the WHY. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 58, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix and co-host Thomas Stott welcome our newest co-host, Megan Storms, to the program. In this episode, we get to know Megan, her life in general, her journey into trail and ultra, and her journey to HPRS. We discuss why she believes in the HPRS community. Then, the three dive into talking about a whole myriad of things in a witty, fun, and off-the-rail conversation.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 57 HPRS Race Director John Lacroix provides his data collection and analysis for ultramarathon running in 2024, and where the sport finds itself today. Less "address" and more conversation amongst friends, John highlights the triumphant year that ultra had and his reasons for being cautiously optimistic with the numbers and the earth-shattering struggles we're about to face with permitting. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 56, we welcome HPRS community member Jenna Carosio to talk about her life experiences and journey into running. In this episode we talk about Jenna's journey going from a collegiate soccer player, to roaming the world for 2 years, to her becoming a triathlete and ultra endurance athlete. We also discuss her journey from being a civil engineer to becoming an endurance coach for athletes of all abilities. A great episode with an inspiring woman, who has overcome a lot on her path to helping others overcome life's many challenges. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 55, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix and co-host Thomas Stott discuss fueling. A wide ranging conversation that talks about daily diets and fueling during the run. The conversation discusses electrolyte drinks, typical aid station foods, preparing your own foods in advance of a race, training with different foods in finding out what works, and so much more. A conversation that is as much fun as it is important. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 54, HPRS Race Director John Lacroix and co-host Thomas Stott dive into trail etiquette. Who has the right of way on trails? What is it to be courteous and respectful of other trail users? What is accepted etiquette during a race? The conversation even features a short conversation on running with dogs and what to do if a dog and dog owner approach you on the trail. With a few other musings sprinkled in for flair, this is a not-to-be-missed episode of the newly rebooted HPRS podcast!

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 53 HPRS Race Director John Lacroix welcomes new co-host Thomas Stott to the program. In this episode we get to know Tom, his life in general, his journey into trail and ultra, and his journey to HPRS. We discuss why he believes in the HPRS community. Then, the two dive into talking about Preparedness and how it is an integral part of your training in preparation for upcoming events, and life in general. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 51 HPRS Race Director John Lacroix talks about What It's Like to be a race director, but this time from the emotional/mental perspective. In previous episodes John has discussed what it's like to be a race director during a time where the sport of trail and ultra is ever changing. He has discussed the physical aspects of the job and the toll that takes on the race directors body. In this episode he discusses the seemingly unavoidable emotional and mental toll that comes with being a race director in today's day and age.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 50 HPRS Race Director John Lacroix talks about recent ultrarunning press releases; most notably the news of Camile Herron's involvement in a wikipedia controversy, and Aravaipa announcing their updated drug policy. John's main discussion focuses on the effects the sport of ultra will realize as prize money and podiums become more of a focus. He names the "oligarchy" whom he believes is in control of ultra's narrative, including the prize money narrative, and how they stand to make money that will NOT trickle down to smaller events. An episode many will label as "controversial" as John displays his passion for inclusion and accessibility in our sport, and maintaining our focus on community. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 48 HPRS Race Director John Lacroix and Co-Host Cade Hanson discuss the topic of masculinity in ultrarunning. Masculinity explored in the discussion are neo-traditionalist, egalitarian, progressive, and toxic masculinities. A different kind of conversation for sure!

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 45 HPRS Race Director John Lacroix discuss the many nuances between road/tri and trail/ultra and highlights the biggest ones so that the new kids on the block will set better expectations for what they're getting into, and perhaps not insist that trail and ultra do it like road and tri. We are "the dirt bags of the endurance world" after all.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 44 HPRS Race Director John Lacroix welcomes Emily Royal to the set as we talk about our journey in supporting the Latino Ultra Nature Adventure (LUNA). We discuss the many permitting challenges we've face along the way, as well as how "the entitled" have responded to this event. We explore the success of LUNA in our support of a traditionally underserved and marginalized community. Finally, we discuss the importance of helping our Rarámuri friends in their time of desperate need. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 42 HPRS Race Director John Lacroix tells the infamous Maverick Story. This is the story about a Grand Canyon Rim to Rim to Rim Adventure where someone was abandoned at the Canyon. The true mis-adventure complete with high drama and lessons learned. "Don't be a Maverick."

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 41 HPRS Race Director John Lacroix talks about Niwot's Challenge; what it is, how and why it was created, and some of its inner intricacies. Then, the story about how he almost died during a Niwot's Booksetting in April 2015. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 40 HPRS Race Director John Lacroix begins our new series, designed to help folks navigate the ins and outs of trail and ultrarunning. In this episode John provides a bare bones, no BS, approach answering the typical newbie questions to those trying to get into trail and ultra. What shoes and socks to wear. Do you need a watch? How to start running. Where to plan your routes. Progressing through the distances. John provides the information you NEED to keep is simple, and cuts out everything you don't need to start dabbling in trail and ultra.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 38 HPRS Race Director John Lacroix talks about where we go from here on the heels of the UTMB-IM issue in Whistler. Many have called this a "Turning Point" for our sport, but John argues that this is merely the next speed bump; and we've already decided the direction we're going to take long ago. Another passionate episode with a call to action, with the hopes of being a better more positive community moving forward. Take a listen!

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 37 HPRS Race Director John Lacroix dives in to what transpired in Whistler between Gary Robbin's Whistler Alpine Meadows (WAM) event and UTMB-Ironman. John offers an honest perspective that highlights the intricacies of event permitting; including lessons that everyone should learn from the situation. John even dives into the history of UTMB events in North America and how no one should be surprised that this is where our sport finds itself today.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 36 we share the audio from the September 2023 Water Cooler LIVE, hosted on the HPRS Facebook Page. Join HPRS Race Director John Lacroix and HPRS community guests Carey Martin, and "Ketchup" Joe Von Bokern. The show is full of laughs, fun, and HPRS news snippets. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 35 we share the audio from a HPRS Town Hall held last week, where we reveal the final activated recommendations of the HPRS Focus Group, outlining the path FORWARD for HPRS.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 34 HPRS owner and race director John Lacroix welcomes Jason Keith to the program. Jason is a trail and ultramarathon runner who works and volunteers his time towards public land policy with the AMGA, Access Fund, and Runners for Public Lands. In this episode, we learn about a new proposal from the USFS centered around "Cost Recovery" and how this new rule stands to shakeup trail and ultra in a HUGE way.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 33 HPRS owner and race director John Lacroix welcomes HPRS runners and volunteer Cade Hanson to the program. We get to know Cade and his journey into ultra running, his experience at the 2023 Stories Ultra, more about his professional background in video then take a deep dive into the HPRS Focus Group. The HPRS Focus Group just wrapped up their work over the last few months to help steer the HPRS ship into new waters. Cade was a vital piece to that group and is here to discuss more about what was discovered and what is yet to come. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 32 HPRS owner and race director John Lacroix discusses the level of "burn out" he experienced in Late 2022/Early 2023 that almost led to his retiring as a race director, and sale of HPRS. Instead, the path forward was found in the new HPRS Focus Group. A live show was hosted on March 30th with Focus Group members Matt Stoub and Stephen Wilfong-Oliphant and we share the audio from that show for this episode. This is the start of revealing the future of HPRS and the path our series will take in that one direction we all know, FORWARD. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 31 we welcome Kevin, a runner who took on the Stories Ultra 15-Hour this February to discuss the answer to the question on the back of his bib, "How do you remain hopeful in challenging circumstances." An 8th grade teacher, Kevin gives us a brief dive into the psychology of being a teacher in a world where violence is far too prevalent. Also, a brief look into the HPRS Future Preservation Focus Group. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 30 we welcome HPRS community member Tim Leach to talk about their experiences in running. In this episode we talk about Tim's journey going from a stay at home dad who hadn't run any kind of race in years, to working his way through the distances at HPRS all the way to finishing his 1st 100-miler at the Sangre de Cristo Ultras. Tim is our 2022 HPRS Rookie of the Year. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 29 we welcome HPRS runner and volunteer KP Hartman to talk about their experiences in running as a non-binary person. In this episode we tackle the Western States Endurance Run's controversial new transgender and non-binary runner policies; specifically looking at the lacking research required for WSER to be able to adhere to their policies without being discriminatory. We discuss HPRS' policies and the general issues of inclusivity and intolerance within the sport of trail and ultra. This is a not-to-be-missed episode!

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 26 we welcome HPRS runner Stefan Schuster to discuss Ultra Cults. A cult is a misplaced or excessive admiration for a particular person or thing. While ultra running in and of itself can be considered a cult, there are numerous cults within the sport itself and in this episode we list them out!

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 25 we welcome HPRS runner Stefan Schuster to discuss his journey into thru hiking. We also talk about fast packing and how backpacking experiences cross over into ultrarunning as an exceptional way to train.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 24 we welcome HPRS Assistant Race Director Emily Royal as our special guest host to discuss the life cycle of an ultra, more specifically the rise and fall of The Razorback Running Revival. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 23 we welcome HPRS runner Stefan Schuster as our special guest host to discuss how running affects our romantic relationships, and our friendships. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 22 we welcome HPRS runner Stefan Schuster as our special guest host to discuss running and mental health; how running helps us appreciate life and become better individuals. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 21 we welcome HPRS runner Stefan Schuster as our special guest host to discuss the difference between being a runner versus being an athlete, and what being healthy really means.

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 20 we welcome HPRS volunteer Deanna Shankle to talk about her experiences in running, all while she holds down the fort volunteering at The Razorback Running Revival. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 19 we welcome HPRS runner Stefan Schuster as our special guest host to discuss how running helps equip each of us with the mental tools to tackle challenges life throws at us, How ultramarathon running helps each of us achieve the "meaning of life."

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 18 we welcome HPRS runner Stefan Schuster as our special guest host to discuss the responsibilities of runners who wish to participate in trail and ultrarunning events, as well as exploration of self reliance. 

Take a run with The Human Potential Running Series podcast. For Episode 17 we welcome HPRS runner Megan Lawhon to talk about the question on the back of her bib from Stories Ultra 2022.