The Adventure Jogger – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode of the Adventure Jogger podcast, host Steven Kornhaus interviews Tony Gross, a trail and ultra runner who is also the mayor of Kingston Springs, Tennessee. They discuss Tony's journey into politics and his accomplishments as mayor, including expanding the sidewalk system and establishing a farmer's market to promote walkability and healthy habits in the community. They also delve into Tony's running story, from starting with road half marathons to venturing into trail running and completing races like the Music City Trail Ultra and Leadville 100. Tony shares his experiences and challenges in these races, including a DNF at Leadville due to an injury and a difficult race on the salt flats in Utah. Tony Gross and Steven Kornhaus discuss their experiences in ultra running and adventure races. They talk about the planning and execution of races such as the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim and the Wonderland Trail. They also discuss the camaraderie and community that comes with participating in these events. Tony Gross shares his experience of running the Wonderland Trail around Mount Rainier. He describes the three-day journey, highlighting the challenging climbs and the breathtaking beauty of the alpine meadows and glaciers. Tony also discusses his future adventure plans, including climbing Mount Hood and Mount Adams, as well as his dream race, the Wasatch 100. He shares his favorite trail snack (Sour Patch Kid Watermelons) and reveals that his pet peeve is when people block the trail or set up picnics on bridges. Tony's wife, Joy, is praised for her amazing chili recipe that has become a favorite among runners. Takeaways Tony Gross has been the mayor of Kingston Springs, Tennessee for 10 years and has focused on promoting walkability and healthy habits in the community. He expanded the sidewalk system and established a farmer's market to provide access to fresh produce for the residents. Tony's running journey started with road half marathons and eventually led him to trail and ultra running. He has completed races like the Music City Trail Ultra and Leadville 100, facing challenges such as difficult terrains and unpredictable weather. Tony emphasizes the importance of being prepared with proper gear, like headlamps, during races. Ultra running and adventure races require careful planning and preparation The Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim and the Wonderland Trail are popular and challenging races Participating in these races fosters a sense of camaraderie and community The natural beauty and stunning landscapes of these races make them unforgettable experiences The Wonderland Trail around Mount Rainier offers challenging climbs and stunning alpine meadows and glaciers. Tony's future adventure plans include climbing Mount Hood and Mount Adams. His dream race is the Wasatch 100. His favorite trail snack is Sour Patch Kid Watermelons. His pet peeve is when people block the trail or set up picnics on bridges. Joy's chili recipe is a favorite among runners. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Tony's Political Background 02:20 Promoting Walkability and Healthy Habits as Mayor 05:10 Tony's Journey into Running and Trail World 09:46 The Challenges of Racing and Encouraging Healthy Habits 13:34 Progression in Distance and the Desire for Epic Adventures 19:09 Leadville 100 and the Importance of Being Prepared 23:02 Lessons Learned and Conclusion 24:51 The Challenges of Ultra Running and Adventure Races 28:12 The Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim: A Test of Endurance 35:17 The Wonderland Trail: A Journey through Natural Beauty 46:00 The Power of Camaraderie in Racing 49:00 Running the Wonderland Trail 51:09 Challenging Climbs and Breathtaking Beauty 52:24 The Most Difficult and Most Beautiful Day 56:06 Future Adventures: Mount Hood and Mount Adams 01:03:29 Dream Race: The Wasatch 100 01:06:29 Favorite Trail Snack and Pet Peeve 01:09:28 Joy's Amazing Chili Recipe Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/theadventurejogger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Colin Morris shares his journey into running and his experience at the Leadville 100 race. He started running in 2020 after facing challenges in his personal and professional life. Inspired by podcasts and ultra runners like David Goggins and Courtney Dauwalter, Colin decided to push his limits and train for the Leadville 100. In his first attempt, he battled through knee issues but ultimately had to DNF at mile 97. Undeterred, Colin continued training and sought help from a coach and a massage therapist to address his IT band issues. He made a second attempt at Leadville and successfully completed the race. Collin Morris discusses his experiences running the Leadville Trail 100 race in 2021 and 2022, as well as the No Business 100 race in 2023. He shares his training strategies, including a treadmill workout to simulate climbing Hope Pass, and the importance of power hiking in ultra trail races. Collin reflects on the mental and physical challenges he faced during these races, including medication issues and foot problems. He also highlights the support and camaraderie he experienced from his crew and fellow runners. Despite some setbacks, Collin's positive mindset and determination allowed him to finish strong in the Leadville race. Collin Morris reflects on his experience running the Leadville 100 race and shares his takeaways. He discusses his journey through Hope Pass, the challenges he faced with hydration and nutrition, and the support he received from his crew. Collin also talks about his future plans, including running the No Business 100 race and aiming for a sub-25-hour finish at Leadville. Takeaways Colin Morris started running in 2020 and was inspired by ultra runners like David Goggins and Courtney DeWalters. In his first attempt at the Leadville 100, Colin battled through knee issues but had to DNF at mile 97. Colin sought help from a coach and a massage therapist to address his IT band issues. He made a second attempt at Leadville and successfully completed the race. Colin's journey highlights the importance of perseverance and seeking support when facing challenges in running and in life. Training for ultra trail races involves specific strategies, such as simulating climbs on a treadmill and incorporating power hiking into training. Mental strength and a positive mindset are crucial in overcoming challenges during races. Support from crew members and fellow runners can make a significant difference in the overall race experience. Managing medication and foot issues are important considerations for long-distance races. Finishing strong in a race requires strategic planning, adaptability, and perseverance. Getting out to Leadville early to acclimate to the altitude is beneficial Avoid bombing downhills early in the race to prevent quad damage Taking the race seriously but not letting it consume your life is important Finding a balance between running and enjoying the experience is key Having a supportive crew can make a big difference in a race Setting new goals and challenging yourself after completing a race is motivating Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:04 Colin's Start in Running 12:00 Training for Leadville 100 19:14 First Attempt at Leadville 100 25:21 Addressing IT Band Issues 29:26 Second Attempt and Successful Finish 44:53 Race Recap: No Business 100 in 2023 52:04 Race Recap: Leadville Trail 100 in 2023 01:01:36 Conquering Hope Pass and Overcoming Hydration Challenges 01:07:54 The Importance of Crew Support and Mental Preparation 01:16:11 Looking Ahead: No Business 100 and Sub-25-Hour Finish 01:24:09 Finding Balance and Enjoyment in the Ultra Running Journey Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/theadventurejogger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Angie's journey into trail running, inspired by her fascination with the mythical creature known as the Jackalope, led to a transformative experience in the running community. Her initial encounter with trail running and the challenges she faced as a new runner are highlighted, along with the supportive and encouraging environment she found within the trail running community. Angie Fuhrman shares her inspiring journey of transformation, from being 250 pounds to becoming a trail runner and physical therapy assistant. Her experience with weight loss surgery and the empathy it has given her for others is a central theme. Her husband's support and understanding play a significant role in her journey. Takeaways Angie's unexpected discovery of trail running through her fascination with the Jackalope showcases the diverse and unconventional paths that lead individuals to the world of running. The challenges and obstacles Angie faced as a new runner, including judgment and skepticism, highlight the resilience and determination required to pursue a new passion. The supportive and encouraging environment within the trail running community played a crucial role in Angie's journey, demonstrating the positive impact of community and camaraderie in the world of running. Empathy for others comes from personal experience and understanding. Support and understanding from loved ones can be crucial in a health journey. Weight loss surgery can be a life-changing option for some individuals. Chapters 00:00 Unconventional Paths to Trail Running: Angie's Jackalope Journey 03:04 The Fascination with the Jackalope and the Start of Angie's Trail Running Journey 06:19 The Wall Drugs Experience and Unconventional Business Marketing 08:54 Buc -E's and Wall Drugs: Unusual Business Concepts and Connections 10:37 The Discovery of the Jackalope Race and Angie's Entry into Trail Running 13:01 Challenges and Judgment in the World of Running 25:12 The Weight Loss Journey: From Struggle to Transformation 27:16 Empathy and Understanding: The Impact of Personal Experience 35:24 The Role of Support: How Loved Ones Can Make a Difference Support the podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/theadventurejogger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steven Bagley loves helping others achieve their ultra goals, whether by crewing and pacing, or helping with training. The sport has given Steven so much, great friends, peace of mind, self confidence, and more. But after a few tries at 100 miles Steven realized he wasn't doing it for the right reason, and once he found his true "why" he was able to finally cross 100 miles off of his list. This episode is brought to you by Dave Meet, Joseph Meyer, Matthew Quear, William Jana, Steve Hendry, and all of Patreon Supporters and Listeners. Support the podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/theadventurejogger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Craig Thornley went camping with his brother in 1978 and had no idea his tent was set up on the course of a then obscure mountain race called "The Western States Endurance Run". The race captivated him and set him on a path of volunteering for the race, running the race himself, and eventually becoming the Race Director for the most iconic 100 mile race in the world. Craig and I share a lot of laughs with stories you have never heard before about some of the biggest names in the race. He also give a fascinating look into what his day to day life is like doing the big job, and some of is favorite moments. You can support the podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/theadventurejogger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John "Tropical John" Medinger has done so much in the ultra running world. He was the publisher of Ultrarunning Magazine, the founder and RD of races like the Quad Dipsea and Lake Sonoma 50 miler. He has also been President of the Western States board, twice. For the last 16 years he has been the finish line announcer at Western States. We talk about some of his favorite things about being the voice that every ultra runner wants to call their name, great finishes, how he got into running, and some incredible behind the scenes stories. This episode is brought to you by Andrew Peddy, Paulo Aguilar, Denisquared, Larry Page, Caroline Troupe and all of our Patreon Supporters and Listeners. You can support the podcast on patreon https://www.patreon.com/theadventurejogger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The story of Gordie and his horse is just a small part of the amazing history of the Western States 100. Davy Crockett, the host of the incredible Ultrarunning History Podcast breaks down the history of this iconic race, and looks further back to a forgotten time when ultras were the biggest sporting events around, and were eventually banned in some cities. From the 1700s to the 1970 we go deep into an incredible history that creates an even deeper love and appreciation for Western States. Check out Davy's podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/6VYmdPipc5bKMEXjzgNdue Buy Davy's book https://a.co/d/5vns26U This episode is brought to you by Howard Holt, Marc Mills, The Bearded Scholar, Looks Like Walking, Feels Like Running, Allana Papiernik, and all of our Patreon Supporters and Listeners. You can support the podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/theadventurejogger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Spaulding has run Western States twice, on a grand total of 3 tickets. He first ran the race in 2018 getting in on one ticket. Going into the race incredibly undertrained he would do something at the finish line that would make him famous, or infamous. He next ran the race in 2021 after getting in on two tickets! Tim knows how blessed he has truly been, and we have a hilarious conversation about his experiences at the legendary race. Honestly, this one will make you laugh out loud. This episode is brought to you by Lain Caryell, Geoffrey Miller, Ruthie Loofa, Zac Wilson, Richie Blake and all of our Patreon Supporters and Listeners. You can support the podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/theadventurejogger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The host of Crack a Brew with AJW and Mr. Western States himself Andy Jones-Wilkins helps me kick off a special Western States week with the first of five new episodes. We preview the course, make our predictions of who is going to win and share some of the incredible stories from the upcoming 2023 Western States 100. This episode is brought to you by Ron Anderson, Andrew Barrett, Patty Wilson, Michelle Berryman, and all of our Patreon supporters and listeners. You can support the podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/theadventurejogger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Janice Anderson ran her first marathon in 8th grade. After graduating from college she met a group of runners in Huntsville Alabama that would encourage her to try an obscure race, at the time, called "Strolling Jim". That first running of Strolling Jim would introduce her to an incredible new world of ultra running. She won her first Jim btw, and she would go on to win countless other races including JFK, and would finish 2nd at Western States. Janice and I have a great conversation about her 34 years in the sport, what she has learned and how things have changed. Get ready for some great stories from an amazing athlete. This episode is brought to you by Cheesehead Forever, Go Pack Go, Steven "Fear The Turtle", Scot Randall, Daniel Smith, Pete Dady, and all of our Patreon Supporters and Listeners. You can support the podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/theadventurejogger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices