Ordinary to Ultra Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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Ordinary to Ultra Podcast

Brendon Boren

Sports

Frequency: 1 episode/7d. Total Eps: 41

Ultramarathons are pretty gnarly. From the walls of exhaustion to the taxing self-doubt, you WILL encounter difficulty running an ultra. So why do we sign up? And what gets us through those hard times? Tune in weekly to hear about why these ordinary people started running in the first place, the story of their first ultramarathon, and other valuable stories and tips that helped them go from ordinary to ultra. Whether you’re new to ultra running or are an ultra veteran, you’re sure to walk away feeling inspired and ready to run an ultramarathon.

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https://landing.ordinarytoultra.com/newsletter
31 shares
https://www.strava.com/clubs/ordinarytoultra
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https://www.ordinarytoultra.com/
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https://www.instagram.com/mdigirunner
2 shares
https://www.instagram.com/runyogamikerun
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https://www.instagram.com/ultracraig32
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https://www.youtube.com/@TrailAndUltraRunning
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https://www.youtube.com/@ChaseTheSummit
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https://www.youtube.com/@runningwithsimon
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Score global : 48%

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Ep. 39: Finding passion and peace through ultra running with Andrew Griggs

Episode 39

Monday, September 16, 2024 • Duration 01:22:06

Cool and Effective Trail Running Gear at Territory Run Co

Use this code for 20% off your first order: ordinarytoultra20

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Check out the Ordinary to Ultra Official Website

Finding your passion isn't easy. Our whole lives, people and society are telling us what we should care about. Go to school. Get a good job. Buy a house. But do any of these give us passion or peace? Andrew had just finished college and his soccer career, and he felt lost. On a whim, a friend asked if he wanted to run a triathlon with him. He accepted. During training, he realized he performed exceptionally well at running and also thoroughly enjoyed it. He'd found both passion and peace in running. Listen to today's episode to hear all the details about how Andrew found running, the passion and peace it brought his life, AND... the magical story of Andrew's first 50-mile ultramarathon.

And stick around to the end to hear about his progression from a 50-mile ultramarathon to a 100-mile ultramarathon.

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Ep. 38: Running a timed ultramarathon as a couple with Steve and Stephie Libben

Episode 38

Monday, September 9, 2024 • Duration 01:03:29

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It’s not often that both people in a relationship enjoy running. And even less often, both enjoy running more than 26.2 miles together! Today we get just that from Steve and Stephie Libben over in Iowa. Stephie and Steve have been running and strength training for some time, but they got pushed into the ultramarathon realm when Stephie’s brother Josh Law invited them to run an ultramarathon with him (interviewed Josh in episode 23). Listen to today’s episode to hear about Stephie and Steve’s first ultramarathon, a timed 8-hour race. Hear what they did to train and eventually finish their first ultramarathon as a couple, despite the tornado warning!

Also check out episode 27 to listen to Stephie and Josh’s parents who got into ultramarathon running in their 60s/70s!

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Ep. 37: Running a 50k ultramarathon as a working mom with Rachel Martinez

Episode 37

Monday, September 2, 2024 • Duration 01:21:50

Cool and Effective Trail Running Gear at Territory Run Co

Use this code for 20% off your first order: ordinarytoultra20

Get New Episode Announcements and Ultra Running Tips via Email: Sign Up

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Check out the Ordinary to Ultra Official Website

Rachel Martinez started her running journey in 2009-2010 as a way to lose weight and stay fit. Although she wasn't an athlete in high school and didn't initially enjoy running, she decided to give it a try after years of sticking to other fitness routines. What started as a simple fitness activity soon grew into a passion. Rachel vividly recalls her first run, spurred by a desire to burn off calories after a big meal, and the surprising enjoyment she found in the process. From there, her running journey snowballed, progressing from 5Ks to half marathons and beyond. Rachel also unloads the challenges of balancing her passion for running with employment and her responsibilities as a mother.

In today's episode, you'll hear the story of Rachel's first 50k ultramarathon. She shares the ups and downs of her journey, the support of her running community, and how she defied her initial reluctance to ever run long distances. Rachel's story is a testament to perseverance, the joy of setting new challenges, and the power of a supportive community.

Ep. 36: You don't have to run fast to run a 50k ultramarathon with Colleen Grenz

Episode 36

Monday, August 26, 2024 • Duration 01:35:36

Cool and Effective Trail Running Gear at Territory Run Co

Use this code for 20% off your first order: ordinarytoultra20

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Check out the Ordinary to Ultra Official Website

Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, Colleen was always an active child, often running around the house and hiking with her family. Despite dabbling in sports like soccer and track, it wasn't until her 30s and after having 2 kids that Colleen truly embraced running. What began as a way to escape the stresses of being a stay-at-home mom evolved into a passion for distance running. Colleen shares her transition from jogging loops around her farmhouse to conquering her first 5K and beyond. Listen to today's episode to hear all about how Colleen got into running and the inspiring story of her first 50k ultramarathon.

Colleen mentions that she is usually in the "back of the pack" when she runs in races. But the cool thing is, whether you finish first or last, anybody who runs longer than 26.2 miles is an ultramarathon runner.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background 09:33 Early Running Experiences and Introduction to Trail Running 17:04 Progressing in Distances: From 5Ks to Marathons 23:35 Moving to North Dakota and Discovering the Maah Daah Hey Trail Series 27:42 Enduring a Challenging Marathon and Setting Sights on a 50K 34:06 Training Alone and Embracing Slower Pace 39:46 Finding Running Partners 43:44 Setting Realistic Goals 49:02 Learning Through Experience 59:56 The Challenge of Elevation Gain 01:04:41 The Impact of External Factors 01:10:07 Appreciating the Scenery 01:14:47 Ticks and Trail Running: Protecting Against Insects 01:17:30 The Finish Line: Relief and Reflection 01:22:28 Future Plans: Revisiting Races and Exploring New Trails 01:34:47 Outro

Ep. 35: From ordinary working dad to running 240 mile ultramarathons with Jorge Hernandez

Episode 35

Monday, August 19, 2024 • Duration 01:10:26

Cool and Effective Trail Running Gear at Territory Run Co

Use this code for 20% off your first order: ordinarytoultra20

Get New Episode Announcements and Ultra Running Tips via Email: Sign Up

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Check out the Ordinary to Ultra Official Website

SPECIAL EPISODE: Typically I interview folks about their first ultramarathon, and usually they’ve ran that ultramarathon recently. Not today. If you were to see Jorge at the grocery store, you’d have no idea that he’s run 240 miles 3 times. He works an ordinary job and he isn’t paid to run. He’s the ultimate example of an ordinary person who has become an elite ultra runner over the years. Listen to todays episode to learn how Jorge got into running ultramarathons and the inspiring and whacky story of Jorge running 240 miles in the desert of Moab, Utah.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background 07:16 From Fitness to Ultra: Jorge's Journey Begins 14:13 The 50K Challenge: Training and Race Experience 22:20 Conquering the 50-Miler: Training and Race Experience 30:27 Bryce Canyon 100-Miler: Training and Epic Achievement 32:35 Introduction to Jorge's Ultra Running Journey 35:54 The Difference Between 200-Mile and 100-Mile Races 37:39 Training and Preparation for Ultra Marathons 42:09 Aid Stations and Nutrition in Ultra Running 44:33 Jorge's Experience in the Moab 240 56:42 The Mental and Physical Toll of Ultra Marathons 59:58 Jorge's Future Plans and Organizing His Own Race 01:04:10 Advice for New Ultra Runners 01:09:37 Outro

Ep. 34: DNF to 50K ultramarathon finisher with Matthew Sumner

Episode 34

Monday, August 12, 2024 • Duration 01:05:57

Cool and Effective Trail Running Gear at Territory Run Co

Use this code for 20% off your first order: ordinarytoultra20

Get New Episode Announcements and Ultra Running Tips via Email: Sign Up

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Matthew wasn't expecting snow the morning of his first 50k ultramarathon. Matthew had gotten into long-distance running through adventure racing, which combines running with biking, canoeing, swimming, and other means of travel to orienteer to specific points on a map. He loved the running portion so much that he wanted to test his limits in an official ultramarathon. Listen to today's episode to hear the story of Matthew's first 50k, the difficult decision he had to make due to knee pain, and the story of Matthew's redemption.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background 07:36 From Orienteering to Ultra Running 12:40 Adventure Racing and Hunting 16:27 Discovering Ultra Marathons 19:32 Preparing for the First 50K 27:35 Struggles and Difficult Decisions 31:48 Prioritizing Long-Term Health 34:45 Matthew's First 50K Race and the Decision to Sign Up for Another 40:40 The Benefits of Training Plans and Group Running 42:46 The Role of Nutrition and Hydration in Long-Distance Races 52:50 Pushing Beyond Perceived Limits: Matthew's Advice for New Runners 01:05:07 Outro

Ep. 33: Pushing through the pain of your first 50k ultramarathon with Nate Brooks

Episode 33

Monday, August 5, 2024 • Duration 01:23:58

Cool and Effective Trail Running Gear at Territory Run Co

Use this code for 20% off your first order: ordinarytoultra20

Get New Episode Announcements and Ultra Running Tips via Email: Sign Up

Join Our Facebook & Strava Groups to Connect with Other Aspiring Ultra Runners

Check out the Ordinary to Ultra Official Website

Nate Brooks, a professor and counseling minister, found solace in running amid his busy life. His journey began with half marathons, but the lure of the trails drew him into the world of ultra running. Despite facing challenges like IT band issues and getting lost on trails, Nate's passion for pushing his limits led him to sign up for a 50K ultramarathon. Supported by his family and inspired by running documentaries, he trained hard, balancing speed sessions, long runs, and easy runs. On race day, Nate navigated physical and mental hurdles, learning invaluable lessons about endurance and mindset. His experience not only deepened his understanding of his wife's chronic pain but also fueled his desire to continue challenging himself. Listen to today's episode to hear the story of Nate's perseverance during his first 50k ultramarathon.

Follow Nate on Strava to see his training: https://www.strava.com/athletes/96859660

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background 07:35 Nate's Work and Family Life 09:38 Finding Time for Running 13:40 Nate's Running Journey Begins 19:55 Transition to Trail Ultras 30:45 Challenges and Motivation 34:21 Training for an Ultra 37:18 The Importance of Quality Running Gear 39:53 Electrolyte Management 42:07 Saving Money on Running Shoes 49:56 Introduction and Tangent on Buying Shoes 50:58 Training for the 50K Ultra Marathon 51:56 The Week Before the Race: Ornamental Rocks and Hip Pain 54:14 Race Day: Dealing with Hip Pain and Mental Challenges 56:42 Managing Pain and Pushing Through 01:03:47 The Finish Line and Reflections on Chronic Pain 01:12:14 Upcoming Race and Final Advice 01:23:09 Outro

Ep. 32: Skip 50K, go for a 50 mile ultramarathon with Patrick Griggs

Episode 32

Monday, July 29, 2024 • Duration 01:14:42

Cool and Effective Trail Running Gear at Territory Run Co

Use this code for 20% off your first order: ordinarytoultra20

Get New Episode Announcements and Ultra Running Tips via Email: Sign Up

Join Our Facebook & Strava Groups to Connect with Other Aspiring Ultra Runners

Check out the Ordinary to Ultra Official Website

Patrick Griggs is a speech-language pathologist and a passionate runner. He got into running at a young age and continued to participate in races throughout high school and college. After a brief hiatus, his brother's involvement in ultramarathons inspired him to train and pace his brother during a 100-mile race. This experience solidified Patrick's desire to pursue ultrarunning. Patrick talks about his experience running a marathon and an ultra, focusing on his training, nutrition, and mindset. He discusses his training plan, which included running 40-50 miles per week and incorporating strength training to combat IT band issues.

Listen to today's episode to hear Patrick's experience running his first-ever ultramarathon and 50-miler. He talks about the elevation gain, the challenges he faced on the course, and the mindset he maintained to finish the race.

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Ep. 31: From hater of running to 50k ultramarathon with Chase O’Connor

Episode 31

Monday, July 22, 2024 • Duration 58:08

Cool and Effective Trail Running Gear at Territory Run Co

Use this code for 20% off your first order: ordinarytoultra20

Get New Episode Announcements and Ultra Running Tips via Email: Sign Up

Join Our Facebook & Strava Groups to Connect with Other Aspiring Ultra Runners

Check out the Ordinary to Ultra Official Website

Guess what. Many runners start out not liking running, just like Chase O’Connor. Chase grew up playing sports and running was used as a punishment, not something to be enjoyed! When he met his wife who was training for a marathon at the time, he thought she was crazy! Chase signed up for a 5k with his wife to test running out again, and he still hated it. But he did want to lose some weight somehow, so we decided to hit the gym. After a few months and losing 50lbs, he thought… maybe running wouldn’t be so bad now that I’m lighter. So he quickly went from 10k to half-marathon, to marathon. After doing enough road running though, he knew he wanted to stick to trail running and run his first ultramarathon.

Tune in today to learn more about Chase’s background, how he grew to enjoy running, and hear the story of Chase’s first 50k ultramarathon where he earned the nickname “flatlander.”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background 07:26 Training and Transition to Trail Running 12:35 From 5K to Marathon 16:27 Discovering Ultra Running 29:26 The 50K Challenge 32:00 Race Preparation: Night Before and Morning of the 50K 35:05 Starting the Race in the Dark and Early Morning 39:42 Support and Surprises Along the Way 43:25 Crossing the Finish Line and Post-Race Recovery 48:54 Future Races and Training Plans 54:29 Advice for First-Time Ultra Runners 57:19 Outro

Ep. 30: Brett’s first 50k and balancing life and trail running with Brett Farrell

Episode 30

Monday, July 15, 2024 • Duration 01:03:09

GIVEAWAY ALERT! Today’s guest, Brett Farrell, is the owner of trail-running brand Territory Run Co. and is giving away 5 newly designed trail-running hats to 5 different winners! Tap the following link to enter the giveaway: https://landing.ordinarytoultra.com/territoryrunco

Territory Run Co. is a 10+ year-old top-tier trail running brand. Their hats and apparel are designed by trail runners for trail runners. I love their gear, so I thought I’d share! If you’re in the market for some sick new trail-running hats or clothes, check out Territory’s online store: https://territoryrun.co

Life priorities change, and that’s ok. Brett Farrell has been an avid trail runner for over 15 years, including many ultramarathons and other trail running adventures worldwide. You’ll hear the story of Brett’s first 50k today! But Brett has goals that lie outside of trail running as well. Brett owns a trail running brand that he’s committed to manage and he also wanted to fix up an old house. So he did! Between work and home renovations, Brett has had little energy left for his trail-running dreams. And that’s ok! Listen to today’s episode to hear how Brett got into running, the story of his first 50k ultramarathon, and how he balances his competing life goals and priorities.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Territory Runco

05:54 From High School to Trail Running

13:43 The Trail Running Community

17:07 Training for a 50K

31:06 The Emotional Journey of Running a 50K Race

33:44 Balancing Life and Running: Fixing Up a House

38:53 The Beauty of Evening Runs

49:31 Finding Joy in Running Again

55:56 Embracing Trail Running Adventures

Ordinary to Ultra Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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Ordinary to Ultra Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

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