Natasha Swartley, an ultra runner and trail race medic specializing in footcare for ultra runners, joins me in a discussion about the importance of foot care for runners. We discuss common foot issues like blisters, the significance of proper shoe fitting, and strategies for maintaining foot health during training and races.

Natasha doesn't just fix the feet of runners during races. She becomes the totem pole for the runner as the pain of their feet brings up past pains and traumas. She emphasizes the mental aspects of running, particularly in timed races and backyard ultras, and how to cope with pain and discomfort. Accepting pain as part of the journey and making thoughtful decisions rather than impulsive ones during challenging moments is part of the game.

Just pop the blister! You will feel better!

Natasha provides practical tips for FAST foot care in backyard ultras and timed races, including pre-taping techniques (Leuko tape or KT tape), pre-tying your shoes, the use of lubricants (Desitin, Happy Toes, Trail Toes, Run Goos, Squirrel's Nut Butter, Salty Britches, Vaseline, Aquaphor), and how to make a quick turnaround in a backyard ultra.

Natasha has videos on her Instagram on how to tape your feet. Practice practice practice! She also has blister packs available on her Etsy.

Follow Natasha on IG

Follow Natasha as a race medic on IG

Natasha's Strava

Blister packs on Etsy 

Taping your feet:

Video 1 (toes)

Video 2 (ball of your feet)

Video 3 (heel)

Takeaways

• Foot care is crucial for runners, especially during ultra races.
• Proper shoe fitting can prevent many foot issues.
• Blisters can be managed effectively with the right techniques.
• Mindset plays a significant role in overcoming pain during races.
• Investing in good socks and shoes is essential for foot health.
• Pre-taping can help prevent blisters before they form.
• Runners should practice foot care techniques before race day.
• It's okay to experience pain; it's part of the running journey.
• Having a support crew can expedite foot care during races.
• Emotional support is important during long races. 
• The softer the better when it comes to feet.
• You can't make good decisions on a rash mind.
• You will survive the challenges you face.
• Temporary problems shouldn't dictate your decisions.
• Resilience is built through overcoming obstacles.

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

Running is more than just miles for Elizabeth (she/they). It’s been a constant companion through all seasons of life for the past 25 years, a source of connection, challenge, and adventure.

I think Elizabeth says it best: at the most basic level, running allows you to simply move forward.

"Why are we walking? No, We can run."

In this episode we dive into why Elizabeth loves looped races, tips she has for backyard ultras and timed events, lessons she has learned from past races and what she will do different in the future, and her deep appreciation for being out there. What am I capable of? Can I complete the distance that I've said I'm going to run? Their curiosity paired with stubbornness and love for a fun challenge has allowed Elizabeth to complete races like Javelina Jundred, Kettle Moraine 100, 20 yards at Elm Creek Backyard Ultra, Tuscobia Winter Ultra, and more.

"I'm not a competitive runner but I'm competitive with myself."

"I'm going to mix two of my favorite things - identifying as queer and also running"

Elizabeth has also found great support and community with LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC run groups in the area. The shared understanding, appreciation, and commonality has added joy to their training. While there's still work to be done, they deeply appreciate the organizations that offer non-binary divisions, longer cut-offs, and truly inclusive spaces.

I hope you enjoy Elizabeth's approach and appreciation of running and apply some of her advice to your next race or training cycle!

Thank you, Elizabeth, for joining me on the show!

You can follow Elizabeth's journey here:

Elizabeth's blog

Elizabeth's Instagram

OTHER SHOW NOTES:

Outdoor Safe Space pin and IG page

They Run MN IG page

Twin Cities Moving While BIPOC  IG page

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

Nutrition during backyard ultras or last man standing races is one of the most important elements of training and of the race. HOWEVER, it's one of the things that runners struggle with the most when it comes to ultramarathons.

Why? Because everyone is different, you are out there for a LONG time, AND with backyard ultras/last man standing races, you have limited time to problem solve GI issues, dehydration, and other nutrition problems before needing to continue running.

What you should eat and drink, how much, and when can seem intimidating and overwhelming. That's why we're chatting with The Endurance Nutritionist, Kayla Fitzgerald, on today's episode.

Kayla is a registered dietitian, ultra runner, race director, and nutrition expert who has helped hundreds of runners nail their nutrition strategy for their training and their races. 

In this episode we discuss the intersection of nutrition and running, particularly in the context of ultra marathons and backyard races. Kayla shares her unique journey to becoming a dietitian, her experiences in running, and the importance of community in trail running.

The conversation delves into practical fueling strategies for ultra marathons, considerations with protein and carbs, how to not bonk, the mental aspects of running, and the significance of personalized race day nutrition plans. Listeners will gain insights into how to approach nutrition for endurance events, the value of being adaptable in their fueling strategies, and how Kayla can help you with a race day nutrition strategy that is made for YOU.

We also discuss Kayla's perspective on being the race director of Palmetto Ultras, a race series (and group trail runs) in Charleston, South Carolina. Hallucination Trail Race is her next upcoming race! Run for 6hrs, 12hrs, 24hrs, or 34hrs!

Thank you Kayla for coming on the show!

KAYLA'S LINKS

Kayla's Instagram (@the.endurance.nutritionist)

Kayla's website 

Palmetto Ultras on Instagram 

Palmetto Ultras website 

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

Are you limiting yourself to what you think is possible and impossible? What if nothing was impossible?

In this episode, Jaci sits down with ultra runner Nick Steel, who shares his incredible journey through running, including his impressive feat of completing 14 100-mile races in 2025 (so far). Nick discusses how running has been a therapeutic outlet for him, helping him cope with mental health challenges. Nick always says "Your body can handle far more than your mind will allow." It's more than just running hundreds of miles. You have no limits other than the ones constructed in your mind. The mind must be trained daily. Break past those limits and move beyond.

The conversation delves into the unique aspects of backyard ultras, pacing strategies, and the significance of having a supportive crew. Nick also emphasizes the importance of community and the mental game of ultra running, offering advice for new runners and those hesitant about the backyard ultra format. 

Takeaways

• Nick Steel has completed 14 100-mile races in 2025 so far.
• Running has helped him cope with mental health challenges.
• He aims to inspire others through his running journey.
• Nick's Water Tower Challenge involved running a 50K every day for a week.
• He emphasizes the importance of recovery and nutrition in ultra running.
• Nick's backyard ultra pacing strategy includes walking to conserve energy.
• His father plays a crucial role as his crew during races.
• He uses rocks from races as motivational reminders.
• Nick believes in the power of community and social interaction during races.
• Nick's main goal for Broken Anvil Backyard Ultra was to push other runners further than they've ran in the past.

Huge thanks to Nick for coming on the show!
 
SHOW LINKS:
Nick's Instagram
Nick's YouTube
Nick's Strava
Nick's Ultra Running Mag stats

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

In this episode of The One More Hour Podcast, Jaci Wilson delves into the concept of Backyard Ultras, a unique running format that combines endurance with community spirit. She explains the origins of the Backyard Ultra, its specific rules, and the competitive nature of the races. The episode also touches on the importance of pacing, nutrition, and the community aspect of these events, setting the stage for future discussions on various related topics.


Takeaways

• The Backyard Ultra format was created by Gary Cantrell in 2011.
• A Backyard Ultra consists of a 4.167-mile loop completed every hour.
• Participants have 60 minutes to finish each loop, or they are out.
• The race continues until only one person remains who has completed one more loop than anyone else.
• The current world record for a Backyard Ultra is 119 yards, set in June 2025.
• Backyard Ultras foster a strong sense of community among runners.
• Runners often participate in Backyard Ultras to push their limits and achieve personal goals.
• Aid is not allowed until after completing the loop, emphasizing self-sufficiency.
• The ultimate goal for many is to qualify for the Big's Backyard Ultra.
• Future episodes will cover pacing, nutrition, and insights from various experts.

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

Curious about backyard ultramarathons? What's it like to run with no set ending time or distance? How do you keep going when you get bored? How can I get into ultras without a crew? How far can I go? What is a backyard ultra? How do I approach the backyard different from a set distance ultra or a timed event? There are so many questions!

Welcome to The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Events, and the Ultra Mindset of "one more".

If you’re a backyard ultra runner, a trail or ultra runner curious about the format, a road runner who is curious about the ultra world, or someone who just loves testing your limits — this podcast is for you.

My goal with this podcast is to bring you stories, strategies, and conversations with runners, race directors, crew members, and professionals like registered dietitians, mental performance psychologists, physical therapists, sleep specialists, etc., to provide you with the most amount of information possible to help you keep going ONE MORE. One more hour, one more loop, one more hour, one more minute, one more step.

If you have topic suggestions or guest recommendations, please let me know at theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com!

SHOW LINKS:

Follow Jaci: @jaci.wilson.runs

Curious about 1:1 coaching for your next backyard ultra? Book a free call with me and check out my website.

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

Can you keep going when everything in you wants to stop?

Welcome to One More Hour: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

This podcast dives deep into the ultrarunning mindset and the backyard ultra format, a race where runners cover 4.167 miles every hour on the hour until only one remains. Each week, host Jaci Wilson, ultramarathon and marathon coach, trail runner, and backyard ultra expert, brings you raw stories and expert strategies from athletes, race directors, sports psychologists, dietitians, and more.

Whether you’re a backyard ultra runner, a trail or ultra runner curious about the format, or just someone obsessed with testing your limits, this show will help you fuel smarter, think stronger, and push past the wall when the miles never stop.

Hit follow now so you don’t miss the first full episode and get ready to go just one more hour.

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

From marathoner to Last Runner Standing, Amy Feit (2025 Duff Dog Backyard Ultra champion) joins me to share her journey into the world of backyard ultras, where endurance, mindset, and community collide.

Amy dives into what it takes to stay strong through the night, how to fuel and recover from multi-day efforts, and the mental strategies that keep her going when things get tough. We talk about everything from wildlife encounters and gear choices to the power of crew support and why the backyard format offers something special for every type of runner.

Whether you’re thinking about signing up for your first ultra or looking to refine your mindset for your next big race, Amy’s insights are full of practical advice and real trail wisdom.

🎧 Tune in to hear how curiosity, resilience, and camaraderie carried Amy through the backyard yards and why she believes everyone should try one at least once.

Follow Amy’s journey:

Amy's Instagram

Light mentioned: NoxGear Tracer Lamp

Takeaways

• Amy Feit is the 2025 Last Runner Standing at Duff Dog Backyard Ultra and she had the assist at the 2024 Duff Dog Backyard Ultra.
• Mindset plays a crucial role in ultra running performance.
• Proper lighting and gear can enhance safety and performance during night runs.
• Amy's running journey includes marathons and aspirations for ultra races.
• Nutrition strategies should include a variety of foods to prevent fatigue.
• Having a supportive crew can make a significant difference in race performance.
• Foot care is essential to prevent blisters and discomfort during long races.
• Mental challenges increase during night runs, requiring a shift in mindset.
• Wildlife encounters can add an unexpected element to the race experience.
• Amy emphasizes the importance of mental strategies in endurance racing.
• She encourages hesitant runners to just sign up for a backyard ultra.
• The camaraderie among runners is a significant aspect of the backyard ultra experience.
• Post-race recovery can be challenging, with unique aches and pains.
• Race directors play a crucial role in creating a supportive environment for runners.
• Nutrition choices can greatly impact performance during long races.
• Listening to music or podcasts can help distract from the mental fatigue of racing.
• The backyard ultra format allows for a no-pressure introduction to ultra running.

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

Trying to figure out how to pace your next backyard ultra? Hint, faster does not mean better in the backyard!

In this short but packed episode, we break down one of the most important and most misunderstood parts of the backyard ultra format: pacing. Whether you’re brand new to the backyard or looking to improve your strategy, this episode covers practical pacing advice, how to train for consistent hourly loops, and what to plan for on race day.

We talk about common mindset traps runners fall into, why road paces don’t translate to trails and backyards, and how to use walking and low effort levels to your advantage. You’ll learn how much time you actually need at camp between yards, why early loops feel too easy, and how to stay mentally steady when your breaks get shorter. I also share data from the 2025 Big’s Backyard Individual World Championship to show how the top runners manage their pace and effort.

From managing night loops and crew support to handling stiffness, panic moments, and course-specific strategy, this episode gives you a clear, realistic approach to pacing yourself further than you think possible. If you want to go deeper and personalize your pacing strategy, I have 1:1 coaching spots available.

Use code JaciWilson25 for 25% off your registration for the 2026 Duff Dog Backyard Ultra through November 30, 2025. 

Takeaways

• The two common pacing mindsets new backyard runners fall into
• Why road paces don’t translate to trails (and what to focus on instead)
• The importance of walking hills and managing effort, not speed
• Ideal time to aim for at camp between yards (and why it varies)
• Why early breaks feel long — and why that’s a good thing
• How pacing shifts as the race progresses
• The role of crew support when your between-yard time gets short
• How to handle stiffness, slowing down, or mental panic
• What Big’s 2025 data shows about sustainable pacing
• How to adjust pacing for day vs. night loops
• Why pacing is fully individual and depends on your needs at camp
• The value of course recon and practicing on similar terrain
• Why working with a coach can help personalize your pacing strategy

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

How's a Backyard Ultra Different if I Run it Self-Supported or with a Crew? Advantages, Disadvantages & How to Prepare

In this episode of The One More Hour Podcast, we break down one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in a backyard ultra: running self-supported vs. running with a crew.

I walk you through the real advantages and disadvantages of both approaches, what to discuss with your crew before race day, how to set up your camp, how to prepare for mental low points, and how to make your turnaround time as efficient as possible, whether you have support or not.

If you’re training for your first backyard, planning a big 2026 goal, or wanting to go farther than you ever have before, this episode gives you the structure, strategy, and practical tips you need.

Inside this episode:

• Why backyard ultras are uniquely accessible for first-time ultra runners
• The hidden advantages of running self-supported (and the pitfalls to expect)
• How to stay organized, efficient, and mentally focused when you’re solo
• The biggest benefits a crew can give you — and the risks of choosing the wrong people
• How to prep your crew for “the dreaded loops”: sunset, 3–5 AM, and the first quit attempt
• What your crew needs to know about you, your goals, and your communication style
• Essential pacing considerations for crewed vs. solo athletes
• How to structure your setup so you don’t DNF because of logistics
• The mental strategies every backyard runner needs in their toolkit

Mentioned in this episode:

✨ Duff Dog Backyard Ultra – October 2026

Use code JaciWilson25 for 25% off through Nov. 30

(Gorgeous course, amazing race director, great aid, and a true family-feel backyard. I’ll be running it!)

Work with me:

If you’re thinking about running your first backyard ultra or you want coaching to help you go farther than you have ever gone before, you can apply for coaching here or message me on Instagram @onemorehourpodcast

Chapters

00:00 Podcast Intro

00:50 Introduction to Crew vs. Self-Supported

02:15 The Appeal of Backyard Ultras

06:43 Crew vs. Self-Supported: The Debate

08:03 Advantages of Being Self-Supported

12:00 Disadvantages of Being Self-Supported

17:34 If You are Self-Supported, do these things!

28:06 Preparing for Race Day: Tips and Tricks

31:58 Navigating Dehydration and Self-Support Strategies

37:09 The Importance of Asking for Help

37:56 Advantages of Having a Crew

45:55 Disadvantages of Having a Crew

54:15 Effective Communication with Your Crew

58:57 Pacing Strategies for Self-Supported vs. Crew Runners

01:01:53 Be Prepared

01:03:37 Show notes and links

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

Backyard ultras aren’t won by the strongest runner. They’re won by the runner who can manage their mind hour after hour. In this episode, I break down the five most common mental traps backyard runners fall into and exactly how to avoid them so you can stay in the race long after everyone else is breaking.

You’ll learn why thinking too far ahead destroys your focus, how comparison steals your energy, and why treating normal discomfort like an emergency leads to early taps. We also cover the danger of the “early comfort lie” and how skipping nutrition or maintenance in those first few hours can torpedo your entire race. And finally, I explain the infamous exit narrative. The mental story your brain builds to convince you it’s okay to quit and how to shut it down with clear, predetermined rules.

If you want the full written guide with actionable fixes for all five traps, grab your free copy of The Top 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into.

Remember: the goal isn’t perfection. It’s staying mentally steady enough to give yourself a real chance. Just one more hour.

Takeaways

Backyard ultras are primarily a mental challenge.

Runners often mentally tap out before they physically can.

Focusing on the present moment is crucial for endurance.

Comparing yourself to others can lead to unnecessary doubt.

Catastrophizing discomfort can derail your race.

Early comfort can lead to neglecting nutrition and hydration.

The mind creates convincing narratives to justify quitting.

Having a predetermined list of reasons to stop can help.

Training your mindset is as important as physical training.

Staying in the game is key to achieving your goals.

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

If you're running your first backyard ultra, this episode will save your race.

Most first-timers don’t get timed out. They fall into avoidable pacing, mindset, and fueling traps. Today, we’re breaking down the three biggest mistakes new backyard runners make, and exactly how to avoid them so you can stay in the race longer than you thought possible.

You’ll learn:

• Why pacing like a marathoner destroys your backyard race
• How the REAL DNF happens in the chair, not on the loop
• What your fueling strategy must look like after hour 6
• How to build early habits that protect your future self
• The mindset shift that keeps you moving when others quit

Whether you're preparing for your first backyard or want to last longer in your next one, this episode gives you the strategy, patience, and mindset tools to stack more hours and surprise yourself with what you’re capable of.

Takeaways

• Backyard Ultras require a different pacing strategy than traditional races.
• First timers often make the mistake of starting too fast.
• Mental challenges are a significant factor in DNF rates.
• It's crucial to have a plan for mental lows during the race.
• Don't quit in the chair; keep moving until the clock runs out.
• Nutrition should include real food, not just gels and sports drinks.
• Incorporate meals into your fueling strategy during the race.
• Expect to feel tired and have a plan to push through those feelings.
• Practice your fueling strategy during training runs.
• Control your race by managing your energy and mindset.

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

In this powerful episode, Colleen MacDonald shares the five-year journey behind her Fastest Known Time on Mt. Kilimanjaro. A journey that started long before she stepped foot on the mountain. Colleen opens up about how a period of personal transition led her to seek a goal big enough to anchor her, challenge her, and reconnect her with the bold version of herself she feared she’d lost.

We explore what it takes to hold a dream for years: the mental discipline, the self-reinvention, the systems that keep you committed, and the emotional grit required when no start line or finish line is ever guaranteed. Colleen talks through the physical training, the dark moments, the doubt-as-data mindset, and the micro-decisions that carried her through altitude, exhaustion, and uncertainty.

More than a story about setting an FKT, this is an honest conversation about identity, belief, long-term resilience, and what it means to choose a goal that changes you from the inside out. If you're craving a challenge that scares you, stretches you, or asks you to become someone new, this episode will feel like permission to start.

Follow Colleen on Instagram

Colleen's website and blog

The Cairn Project website

More about the Summit Scholarship

Takeaways

• Mental strength is 90% of achieving big goals.
• Setting a long-term goal can help overcome stagnation.
• Having a larger purpose can enhance motivation.
• Resilience is built through grit and endurance.
• Training for altitude is crucial for success.
• Quitting should not be an option when pursuing goals.
• Flexibility in planning is essential for overcoming challenges.
• Building a supportive team can elevate the experience.
• Reflecting on experiences helps in personal growth.
• Every challenge presents an opportunity for learning. The first time you face a challenge, it makes the second time easier.
• Problem-solving is essential for personal growth.
• You can feel better in an hour; give yourself that chance.
• Taking quitting off the table allows for deeper learning.
• Experiences outside your comfort zone build resilience.
• Doubt can serve as a data point for growth.
• Getting comfortable with discomfort is a learned skill.
• Celebrating small wins reinforces confidence during challenges.
• Verbalizing struggles can help alleviate mental burdens.
• The journey is as important as the destination in achieving goals.

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

Backyard ultras don’t ask if you’re tough. They ask if you’re honest.

As we close out 2025, many runners are already looking at their 2026 calendars. But before you pick a race or set a mileage goal, you need clarity. In this episode, we move beyond "marathon-style thinking" to explore the mental frameworks and uncomfortable questions that actually determine success in a race with no finish line.

We dive deep into why intensity backfires, how to manage your ego at 2:00 a.m., and the three-tier framework for defining success when the outcome is unpredictable.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The "Why" Behind the Loop: Why your "Instagram answer" won’t save you when things get dark.
• Patience vs. Toughness: Why the most strategic runners are often the ones who look like they’re "underperforming" early on.
• The 2:00 A.M. Rule: How to handle the "unreliable narrator" of a sleep-deprived brain and avoid emotional quitting.
• Identity-Based Goals: Why setting an "X-hour" goal can actually create a ceiling for your performance.
• Life Capacity: Assessing if your current season of life supports the mental and emotional load of backyard training.
• Falling in Love with the Boring: Why mastering the "unsexy" skills—walking, strength training, and repetition—is the ultimate key to durability.

Takeaways

• Most runners fail at backyard ultras due to unclear goals.
• Backyard ultras require a different approach to goal setting.
• Success in backyard ultras is not defined by distance or time.
• Patience is more important than toughness in this format.
• Defining success without a finish line is crucial.
• Decision-making under fatigue is a key skill for endurance runners.
• Life season and emotional readiness impact training effectiveness.
• Consistency in training is more important than race day excitement.
• Understanding your motivations can enhance your performance.
• Embracing the process is essential for long-term success.

Featured Resources

[FREE] 2026 Goal Clarity Worksheet: Before you commit to a backyard ultra, go through these questions and see where your readiness level is at. It doesn't need to be perfect to run a backyard. Just be honest with yourself so you know what areas need work.

[FREE] Goal Clarity Workbook: Don’t just listen, do the work. Use the workbook or the ChatGPT prompts to get clarity on your goals in 2026. Download the exact questions from this episode (and a few more) to help you map out a sustainable and clear 2026.

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

What does it take to make a big jump in backyard ultras?

Stephanie Rosebaugh, licensed marriage and family therapist, ultra runner, and author, joins me to discuss the mindset that was required in her huge jump in performance at The Last Dance Backyard Ultra, where she ran 67 yards and earned the assist, nearly doubling her previous backyard performances of 34 and 38 yards.

Stephanie shares the full arc of her journey into ultras, from a late start in running to tackling Cocodona and Bigfoot 200, and how those long, point-to-point experiences shaped her approach to the backyard format. Rather than chasing an outcome, Stephanie explains how her biggest breakthrough came from committing to loving herself every step of the way, staying present, and removing comparison from the equation.

The conversation dives deep into:

• How mindset and self-talk directly influenced her ability to run nearly three days straight
• The mental reframes that helped her move through night running, bad weather, and emotional lows
• Why fueling consistency, simple routines, and acceptance of ebbs and flows mattered more than rigid strategies
• The powerful moment that led her to step off the course voluntarily and why it felt like a win
• How curiosity, not pressure, is now driving her pursuit of a silver coin and a spot on Team USA

This episode is a masterclass in mental resilience, emotional maturity, and sustainable performance, and a reminder that in backyard ultras, the biggest breakthroughs often happen when runners stop forcing outcomes and start listening to their bodies, their minds, and the moment they’re in.

Stephanie's IG https://www.instagram.com/stephsrunspiration/

Stephanie's book The Power of Enoughness

https://books.manuscripts.com/product/the-power-of-enoughness/

Takeaways

• Patience and grit are essential in backyard ultras.
• Emotional maturity plays a key role in endurance racing.
• The journey of self-discovery is crucial for runners.
• Nutrition planning is vital for long races.
• Community support enhances the racing experience.
• Mindset shifts can transform race outcomes.
• Every race offers unique gifts and lessons.
• Flexibility is important in ultra running.
• Connection with fellow runners enriches the experience.
• Setting process goals can lead to greater satisfaction.

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

Looking to improve at your next ultramarathon OR looking to run your first ultra? A backyard ultra will help you with both!

Backyard ultras and timed events often get misunderstood. They’re seen as intimidating, extreme, not a real ultra, or a soft ultra. But in reality, these formats are some of the most accessible, supportive, and effective ways to explore ultra running, especially if you’re stepping beyond the marathon for the first time.

In this episode of The One More Hour Podcast, I break down why backyard ultras and timed events are such powerful entry points into endurance racing. We talk about how the format reduces logistical overwhelm, allows you to test gear and fueling safely, builds mental resilience through repetition and quick resets, and completely reframes what success looks like in ultra running.

Whether you’re ultra-curious, training for your first long event, or simply wondering how far you’re capable of going, this episode will help you see the backyard format in a new way.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why you don’t need a crew to run a backyard ultra, and how built-in community support changes the experience
• How frequent access to aid makes gear and fueling experimentation easier and safer
• Why simplified logistics lead to better focus, less stress, and stronger execution
• How backyard ultras help you train your mindset through small, repeatable challenges
• How timed events and backyard formats redefine success and remove the fear of “DNF”
• Who this format is best suited for and how it can build confidence for future ultra goals

Thinking about running your first backyard ultra?

If you want help building the strength, mindset, and strategy to go farther than you ever have before, this is exactly what I coach runners through.

👉 Let's chat for 15min or apply for coaching
👉 Or send me a message on Instagram and let’s talk about your goals

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

Nick Petterson finished 65 yards (270 miles) at Summit Backyard Ultra: The Last Dance, placing top three in a stacked silver-ticket field.

In this episode, Nick joins Jaci to talk about what it takes to keep showing up hour after hour, day after day, in the backyard ultra format. From pacing and fueling to mindset, crew dynamics, and late-race decision-making, Nick shares the lessons learned from competing deep into the field, and then how he turned around to win another backyard just weeks later.

This conversation dives into the mental battles, the resets between yards, and why backyard ultras may be one of the most accessible ways to step into ultrarunning.

Who This Episode Is For:

• Runners curious about Backyard Ultras or timed events
• Ultrarunners looking to improve mindset and late-race decision-making
• Athletes who want to understand what it takes to go beyond 100 miles
• Anyone fascinated by the mental side of endurance sports

Key Takeaways:

• Backyard ultras aren’t about speed; they’re about consistency, restraint, and resets
• Mental toughness isn’t fixed; it’s built through repeated exposure to discomfort
• The hardest decisions often happen between the loops, not during them
• Community and shared effort can push runners farther than competition alone
• You don’t need to know how far you can go, just whether you’re willing to start again

Follow Nick on Instagram @nickp_runs and Strava

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

If you’ve ever felt confused about bronze tickets, silver tickets, gold tickets, or how runners actually qualify for Big’s Backyard Ultra, this episode breaks it all down in a clear, no-fluff way.

In this short episode, we walk through how the backyard ultra qualification system works, what each “ticket” really means, and how runners progress from local backyard races all the way to the World Championships at Big Dog’s Backyard in Tennessee.

This episode is designed to help you understand the system without assuming you’re already chasing Big’s, whether you’re brand new to the backyard format or just curious about how the pathway works.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• What a Bronze Ticket is and how you earn one
• What a Silver Ticket Event is and why winning matters
• How National Backyard Ultra Teams are formed
• The role of At-Large qualifying and why big performances still matter
• What people mean by the “Gold Ticket” and the World Team Championships
• How runners ultimately qualify for Big’s Backyard Ultra
• Why most runners don’t need to worry about Big’s yet and why that’s okay

Key Takeaways:

• Tickets are awarded to the Last Runner Standing, not based on mileage alone
• You don’t need to win a race to be competitive through the At-Large pathway
• Strong backyard performances over time are what open doors
• The backyard system rewards patience, consistency, and experience

Links:

Big's Backyard website

Silver Ticket Events

2026 World Championship Team

The Road to Big's World Team USA Brackets

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

In this episode of the One More Hour podcast, we welcome Dr. Tonya Olson, a board-certified doctor of physical therapy and co-author of the seventh edition of "Fixing Your Feet." The conversation centers around the critical importance of foot care for runners, especially those participating in endurance events like marathons and ultra marathons.

Dr. Tonya emphasizes that foot issues are often one of two leading cause of dropouts in ultramarathons (the other is GI problems), and she shares practical advice on how to prevent common problems such as blisters, hot spots, and toenail issues. She advocates for a proactive approach to foot care, encouraging runners to incorporate foot health into their training plans and to be mindful of their foot mechanics and shoe choices.

Dr. Tonya also discusses her extensive experience in foot care at events like Western States 100 (going on 17 years the Michigan Bluff Aid Station at mile 55) and highlights the need for runners to develop a foot care kit and routine. She stresses the importance of understanding the body's signals and being curious about one's own foot health. The episode is packed with insights on how to maintain foot health for longevity in running, making it a must-listen for anyone serious about their running journey.

Things every runner should have for foot care:
• Needle
• 72% alcohol hand sanitizer
• Liquid resin: Skin-Tac or Mastisol
• Pre-cut tape
• Alcohol swab
• Scissors

Dr. Tonya's links:
Website
Book
Instagram @tonyakolsondpt
YouTube (dozens of videos on taping your feet and on footcare products)
Heel raise protocol
Foot strengthening video

Takeaways
  • Prevent maceration
  • You don't have the luxury of not liking feet.
  • Every runner should know how to tape toes and feet.
  • Foot care is largely completely preventable.
  • Calluses are information; they're telling you that you have a concentrated area of friction.
  • Never in the history of a blister has one ever gotten better by ignoring it.
  • Be curious about your foot health and why issues are occurring.
  • You should have a foot care kit with the basics: resin, hand sanitizer, pre-cut tape and a needle.
  • The best way to test your ankle mobility is the knee to wall test.
  • Runners need to communicsate symptoms clearly to their crew.
  • Understanding the mechanics of why things are getting injured is crucial.

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

Packing for a backyard ultra can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first one. In this episode of The One More Hour Podcast, I break down what gear actually matters, what runners tend to overthink, and how being organized and practiced can make or break your race.

Backyard ultras reward preparation, not perfection. You don’t need everything. You need the right things, practiced systems, and the ability to move efficiently between loops as fatigue sets in.

Whether you’re running self-supported or with a crew, this episode will help you simplify your setup, reduce decision fatigue, and focus your energy where it matters most: staying in the game.

What we cover in this episode:

• Gear to consider bringing
• What not to overthink
• How to think about organization
• Practicing everything in training
• Reducing decision fatigue

You don’t win a backyard ultra by having the most gear. You go farther by knowing what to bring, where it is, and how to use it without thinking. Preparation isn’t about control. It’s about conserving energy for the work that matters.

Related Episodes

• Episode 6: Mastering Footcare in Ultras with Trail Medic Natasha Swartley (aka Thor)
• Episode 8: Pacing for Backyard Ultras
• Episode 9: Crew vs. Self-Supported
• Episode 18: Preventing Foot Issues in Multi-Day Ultras with Dr. Tonya Olson

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

What happens when curiosity leads the way?

Mary Namestnik shares her journey from road racing to ultras, falling in love with the backyard ultra format, and most recently running 260+ miles at Across the Years, her first six-day timed event. Together, they unpack the mental and physical lessons that come from races without a fixed finish line, where patience, systems, and self-awareness matter more than pace or ego.

This conversation dives deep into mindset management, pain vs. injury decision-making, pacing mistakes, night loop strategies, crewing dynamics, and why women may actually be uniquely suited for the backyard format, yet underrepresented in it.

Whether you’re backyard-curious, training for a timed event, or simply interested in learning how runners push past perceived limits, this episode offers powerful insights into endurance, belief, and staying present one yard at a time.

Follow Mary on Instagram @maryrunsultras.

Mary's website

Bob's Big Tom's Backyard Ultra

The Bullshit Backyard Ultra

What We Cover in This Episode

• Mary’s path from marathon running to ultras and backyard events
• What running 260+ miles at Across the Years taught her about patience and recovery
• Why going too fast early is one of the biggest mistakes in both backyards and timed events
• How backyard ultras build skills that transfer to longer fixed-distance races
• The importance of systems over motivation in long endurance events
• Managing pain vs. identifying true injury red flags
• Why “keeping your feet moving” is often the most powerful strategy
• Night loop strategies, rest, and “pretending to sleep”
• The role of crew and how the right kind of push matters
• Overpacking vs. preparedness in backyard setups
• Why looser goals can lead to better outcomes
• The misunderstood nature of the backyard ultra format
• Why women are underrepresented in backyard ultras and why they may actually excel
• Reframing the DNF narrative and redefining success in last-person-standing races

Key Takeaways

• Curiosity can take you farther than rigid goals
• Decision fatigue ends races; systems extend them
• Pain is something to manage; injury is something to respect
• The hardest part is starting the next yard
• Backyard ultras aren’t about suffering early, they’re about patience
• Women belong in the backyard, and the format has the potential to unlock confidence in powerful ways

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

 Walking isn’t a failure in a backyard ultra. It’s a skill. 

 In this episode, Jaci breaks down why hiking and intentional walking are essential for going further in the backyard format and why most runners underestimate how much speed and efficiency they can gain by improving their slowest miles. 

 You’ll learn: 

• Why trail pace should never be compared to road pace
• Why walking the hills early conserves energy and delays fatigue
• How improving hiking speed often gives more return than trying to run faster
• Why coming in with too much time left each loop is wasted energy
• How walking helps regulate heart rate, body temperature, fueling needs, and GI stress
• The two biggest walking mistakes new backyard runners make
• Why efficient hill hiking actually makes you faster on flat terrain

If you haven’t already, listen to Episode 8 on pacing, which pairs perfectly with this conversation.

The backyard ultra is easy until it isn’t. What makes it hard isn't walking; it's running too much too soon.

Learning how (and when) to walk is how you stay in the game longer.
 

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

This is an episode about progression.

About adjusting on the fly.

About nutrition saving races.

And about learning to stay when your brain tells you to quit.

In this episode of the One More Hour podcast, Megan Smyth shares her evolution from middle-distance track athlete to one of the strongest and most consistent backyard competitors in the country. Megan discusses her evolution as a runner, emphasizing the importance of maintaining joy in the sport, especially after experiencing burnout during her college years. She highlights how finding a supportive running community reignited her passion and led her to explore longer distances, ultimately excelling in the backyard ultra format.

Megan's insights provide valuable lessons for both seasoned and aspiring ultra runners. She recounts her experiences at the Summit Backyard Ultra, where she progressively improved her performance over the years, culminating in a remarkable 62-yard finish. She reflects on the mental challenges of ultra running, including the importance of pacing, nutrition, and the camaraderie that develops among participants.

The conversation also delves into her recent success at the Raven 24 Hour event, where she achieved a US team qualifying mark at 132 miles, showcasing her adaptability and strategic approach to different race formats.

Megan also delves into her training philosophy, highlighting the importance of consistent mileage and strength training to prepare for ultra events. She shares practical advice for runners, especially those new to the backyard ultra format, encouraging them to embrace the experience and focus on their personal goals rather than specific mileage targets.

For Runners Hesitant to Try a Backyard

Megan says: If you're already curious, what’s the downside?

• You’re never more than 2 miles from camp.
• You can self-rescue anytime.
• You can’t go out too fast.
• You get built-in rest.
• The camaraderie is unmatched.

Some people try one and never look back.

This episode is about:

Consistency over flash.

Adjusting without drama.

Fueling like it matters (because it does).

And choosing to stay one more hour.

Follow Megan's journey on Instagram @runningnutmeg and Strava as she takes on Banana Slug Backyard for a Silver Coin on the US Team and her other big future adventures.

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

In this powerful and vulnerable conversation, Jaci sits down with Jon Fischer, founder of Phase One, to explore what it really means to “stand the line” in racing and in life.

From surviving military training and near-death experiences to battling suicidal ideation and rebuilding his life through faith, fatherhood, and daily discipline, Jon shares the raw journey behind his evolution from performance-chasing ultrarunner to values-driven man.

Together, they unpack:

• Why consistency matters more than intensity
• How suffering can forge endurance, character, and hope
• The shift from outcome goals to values-based living
• How your weakest moments are your defining moments
• Confidence tokens
• Suffering is a gift to find out what you can endure
• Why daily, unseen work shapes who you become
• The power of backyard and last-one-standing formats to reveal your true limits
• How to match fear with courage when you step to the line

Jon also shares why he runs six miles every single day. Not for performance, not for validation, but as a commitment to holistic strength: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual.

This episode is an invitation to volunteer for discomfort, to show up when motivation is gone, and to inspire yourself first.

Because the finish line isn’t what defines you; the daily decision to stand the line again does.

If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re capable of “one more,” this conversation is for you.

Learn more about Phase One at https://www.phase1missions.com/ and follow on Instagram.

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

In this episode of the One More Hour Podcast, Jaci sits down with ultra runner TJ Harms-Synkiew, who took on one of the most unusual endurance challenges in running: Burrito League.

For the entire month of January, runners gathered in Tempe, Arizona (and many other Burrito League locations) to repeat the same 0.2-mile Strava segment (segments varied based on location) as many times as possible.

TJ ended the month with 1,070 miles, earning second place while navigating sleep deprivation, pavement fatigue, injury, and the mental grind of doing the same loop thousands of times.

For runners familiar with backyard ultras (he's got experience in backyard ultras as well), the mindset might feel familiar.

Just like backyard racing, Burrito League became a constant question: Can you go one more?

In this conversation, TJ shares:

• What it’s like to move 12–14 hours a day for nearly a month
• How he managed the mental lows of repetitive endurance
• Why community became the biggest factor in finishing
• The physical consequences of jumping from low mileage to 300-mile weeks
• Lessons about pain, persistence, and perspective

TJ also talks about the emotional comedown after the challenge ended. The sudden loss of routine, community, and movement that had defined his life for 26 days.

If you’ve ever wondered how far your mind can take you when your body wants to stop, this episode explores exactly that.

Because sometimes endurance isn’t about speed.

It’s about deciding to take one more step.

Follow TJ on Instagram

TJ's Substack

TJ's website https://coachcrewpace.com/

Key Takeaways

1. Break the challenge down. When the full distance becomes overwhelming, shrink the goal.
2. Community Changes Everything. Even though the challenge was individual, TJ says the biggest reason he kept going was the people around him.
3. Perspective Makes Hard Things Manageable. One of TJ’s most powerful coping strategies was perspective.
4. The Body Can Do More Than We Expect. TJ believed his legs were finished around 300 miles, then ran over 700 more miles.
5. The Aftermath Is Part of the Experience. One of the hardest parts came after Burrito League ended.

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

In this episode of The One More Hour Podcast, Jaci sits down with Jeff Walker. Teacher, father, husband, and newly crowned silver ticket winner to unpack the race (Queeny Backyard Ultra) that is sending him to Big’s Backyard Ultra.

Jeff shares his journey from a post-college fitness reset to running over 200 miles in a backyard format, and what finally clicked at Queeny to produce his breakthrough performance.

Jeff was drawn to backyard ultras not for distance but for the challenge of pushing past the moment he wanted to quit. He believes most backyard finishes aren't physical - they're mental. He's never felt like he truly reached his physical ceiling. The limiter is often what your brain convinces you is enough.

This conversation dives deep into the mental, strategic, and human side of backyard ultras, from pacing and sleep to self-talk and community.

Key takeaways:

• Protect the early hours
• Expect problems. Ultra running is problem solving.
• Simple training done consistently
• Most backyard ultra finishes are mental, not physical
• Community is a performance enhancer
• A plan changes everything
• Stop projecting. Stay in the hour.

Follow Jeff on Instagram @jcpwalker

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

Most runners think backyard ultras fall apart in the middle of the night.

They don’t.

They fall apart in the first 10 yards.

In this episode of The One More Hour Podcast, we break down the most common mistake runners make early in backyard ultras: letting pacing, ego, and adrenaline take control.

Because the reality is: You’re not going too fast in an obvious way… You’re going too fast in ways you don’t feel yet.

This episode walks through:

• Why the first 10 yards feel deceptively easy
• How small pacing mistakes compound into big problems later
• The subtle ways adrenaline shows up early
• How ego influences decisions (even when you think it’s not)
• What proper early pacing should actually feel like
• A simple framework to set yourself up for a strong, long race

If you’ve ever blown up at 18–24 hours and couldn’t figure out why, this episode will help you connect the dots.

What You’ll Learn

• Why backyard races are lost early, not late
• The difference between running the clock vs running the day
• How adrenaline quietly drains your energy
• Why “this feels too easy” is a warning sign
• What true patience looks like in a backyard ultra
• How to pace with longevity in mind
• The compounding cost of small early mistakes

Key Takeaways

• The goal of the first 10 yards is preservation, not performance
• If it doesn’t feel almost boring, you’re likely going too hard
• Finishing faster early ≠ better — it often costs you later
• Ego shows up in subtle ways (and it can end your race)
• The runners who go far are often the most restrained early

Practical Framework for Your Next Backyard

• Cap your effort, not your pace
• Walk earlier than you think you need to
• Enter camp smoothly — don’t rush in
• Sit less than your ego wants to
• Detach from what everyone else is doing

And most importantly: Don’t make emotional decisions early. There’s nothing to solve yet.

Final Thought

The first 10 yards aren’t about proving you belong. They’re about proving you can wait. Master that and you give yourself a real shot at going one more hour.

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

A 55-yard backyard ultra doesn’t happen by accident—and it definitely doesn’t happen alone.

In this episode of the One More Hour Podcast, Jaci sits down with Stormy and Samantha Hild to break down Stormy’s massive 55-yard performance at Queeny Backyard Ultra from both sides of the chair.

Stormy shares how he’s evolved from going out too fast and learning the hard way to developing a steady, repeatable approach that carried him over 200 miles. He dives into his mindset of “buying into the race,” why he believes most runners quit before their true limit, and how small decisions, like reacting to competitors, can make or break a performance late in the race.

But this conversation goes far beyond the runner.

Samantha gives a behind-the-scenes look at what it actually means to crew a backyard ultra, from tracking every carb and decision, to anticipating needs before they’re spoken, to managing the emotional rollercoaster of watching someone you love push to their absolute edge. She shares how crewing has shaped her as a runner, why communication (or lack of it) matters, and what most people don’t realize about the role crew plays in these races.

Together, they explore:

• Why pacing is one of the hardest (and most important) lessons in backyards 
• The balance between trusting your runner and stepping in when it matters 
• How fueling, gut issues, and decision-making evolve over 50+ hours 
• The mental battle of choosing to start “one more loop” 
• Why the backyard format exposes both your strengths and your blind spots 

Stormy also shares his creative “Pledge to the Park” fundraiser, where every completed loop turned into a donation, raising nearly $5,000 for local trails and adding an extra layer of purpose to every step.

Whether you’re a runner, a crew member, or someone curious about the backyard format, this episode gives you a raw, honest look at what it actually takes to keep going and why you might be capable of more than you think.

• Follow Stormy on Instagram @stormyhild
• Follow Samantha on Instagram @samanthahild_
• Stormy's Queeny blog post
• Work Hard Company

Key Takeaways

• Most runners don’t hit their true limit, they stop when their mind gets loud 
• If you are looking to go far, the first 12–24 hours of a backyard are just the “buy-in” 
• Crewing is proactive, not reactive. It’s about anticipating needs before they happen 
• Small mistakes compound late in the race (fueling, foot care, mindset) 
• You can’t control other runners but focusing on them can still cost you 
• The backyard ultra is as much about decision-making as it is about fitness

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

This episode takes you inside Elm Creek Backyard Ultra, not just as a race, but as an experience shaped entirely around the athletes who show up to test their limits.

Race director, Nick Oswald, shares what makes Elm Creek different from other endurance events: an intentional, athlete-first approach where every decision, from logistics to volunteers, is designed to help runners go further than they thought possible.

At its core, Elm Creek feels less like a traditional race and more like a family picnic that just happens to last for days. Crews set up camp, volunteers settle in around bonfires, and runners return to the same start/finish area every hour, creating a space where spectators, families, and athletes are all part of the same shared experience. It’s accessible, welcoming, and uniquely social, whether you’re running one loop or pushing past 100 miles.

Nick gives a behind-the-scenes look at how much care goes into creating that environment. From managing timing and tracking runners for those following from afar, to ensuring aid station flow and volunteer support, the race team is constantly focused on one thing: making sure every athlete feels supported, seen, and set up to succeed.

From his vantage point at the start/finish line, Nick has witnessed the full spectrum of the backyard experience. He’s seen first-time runners fight to complete their very first loop, and seasoned athletes battle through the night chasing distances they’ve never reached before. He’s watched crews anxiously scan the darkness for their runner’s headlamp, and seen complete strangers come together to support uncrewed athletes, offering food, gear, and encouragement as the race goes on.

As the hours pass, something shifts. What starts as an individual challenge becomes a collective effort. Runners, crews, and volunteers begin working together, pulling each other forward, especially as milestones like 50K, 100K, and 100 miles approach. Some of the most powerful moments come when runners hit their limits, only to be turned back out for “one more loop” by the people around them.

Elm Creek isn’t just about distance. It’s about discovering what you’re capable of in an environment where everyone is invested in your success.

And according to Nick, that’s the magic of the backyard format: you come for the miles but you stay for the people, the persistence, and the possibility of going further than you ever planned.

Follow Elm Creek on Facebook and Instagram.

Elm Creek 2027 registration opens up on Labor Day - it sells out within 2-3 weeks so don't sit on the decision!

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

At some point in every backyard ultra or timed event, you’ll hit it: 2:00 a.m.

The moment where everything suddenly feels heavier, harder, and a little bit hopeless.

In this episode, we break down the psychological shift that happens in the middle of the night and why your brain becomes a completely unreliable narrator when fatigue, darkness, and sleep deprivation collide.

Because here’s the truth: Most runners don’t quit because their body is done. They quit because they believe the story their brain is telling them at 2 a.m.

You’ll learn why these thoughts feel so real, why they’re not, and how to respond in a way that keeps you moving forward when it matters most.

If you’ve ever questioned continuing in the middle of the night, this episode is for you.

🎧 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• The most common “lies” your brain tells during overnight races
• Why your thoughts feel like truth (even when they’re not)
• The danger of making decisions in low moments
• How to separate feelings from facts in real time
• Simple mental strategies to stay in the race when everything feels off

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

"You don't need to be like Goggins to succeed."

What does it actually take to keep going when your body hurts, your mind is spiraling, and the race won’t end?

In this episode of The One More Hour Podcast, Jaci sits down with ultrarunner Dylan Ledbetter to break down the mindset and strategy behind succeeding in the Last Man Standing format and how his strategy has changed over time.

He's ran Midstate Mile three times, Barn Creek Backyard Ultra two times, Mad Backyard Ultra, and many other timed events and fixed distance events. And he's also gearing up to run Cocodona. He has an incredible story and is a proponent of faith, fitness and sobriety, and relies on discipline to get him through each day while looking towards ultimate progress. 

Dylan shares the simple but powerful approach that keeps him moving: stop thinking about the entire race and focus only on the next waypoint. Whether it’s a tree, a bridge, or the next aid station, staying present is what prevents the mental unravel that takes most runners out.

They dive into pacing discipline, how to recognize the “death spiral” before it’s too late, and why focusing on other runners can either hurt you or help you, depending on where you are mentally and physically.

The conversation also explores fueling strategies for long efforts, the importance of digestion over just hitting carb numbers, and how simplifying the process of racing can actually improve performance.

Beyond strategy, Dylan opens up about a major shift in his identity as a runner, from a prove-yourself, cutthroat mindset, to one rooted in community, gratitude, and helping others go further.

Dylan also shares the Three Chambers of Ultra Running: physical, mental and spiritual, and how you build them and move through them.

Follow Dylan on Instagram @dylan_abnormal

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

What do you do when life keeps telling you “no”?

For Parker Stinnett, the answer is simple: find another way forward.

In this episode of The One More Hour Podcast, Parker shares his unconventional path, from being a backup college football kicker, to failing out of BUD/S prep, to becoming an officer in the Navy flying both helicopters and the Osprey, and how that same mindset carried him into ultrarunning.

In just two years, Parker has gone from his first brutal 50K to winning his first backyard ultra. What makes his story stand out isn’t just the results, but how he approaches challenge, discomfort, and failure.

We dive into:

• Why “no” is never the final answer 
• How he mentally navigates pain and adversity 
• Lessons learned from backyard ultras and long-distance racing 
• The role of perspective in building resilience 
• Why signing up might be the hardest and most important step 

If you’ve ever doubted yourself, felt behind, or wondered what you’re capable of… this episode will challenge the way you think about limits.

Key takeaways:

• No is just information, not a verdict
• You don't need to feel ready, you just need to start
• Pain is something you can interpret, not just endure
• Perspective changes everything
• There's no substitute for lived experience
• Consistency beats perfection
• You're either growing or getting complacent

Follow Parker on Instagram @gonegumpin

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

Ultra running might look like an individual sport, but this episode proves it’s anything but.

Jaci sits down with Ashley, creator of Ultra Widow, to pull back the curtain on what really happens behind the scenes at ultra races. From chaotic aid stations to all-night crewing shifts, Ashley shares what it takes to support a runner through the highs, lows, and everything in between.

They dive into the biggest mistakes both runners and crew make, how to actually prepare your crew (hint: it’s more than just handing them a checklist), and why clear communication can make or break your race. Ashley also shares hard-earned lessons from crewing multiple 100-milers—including what happens when nutrition falls apart, plans go sideways, and you have to adapt in real time.

You’ll learn:

• The most common crewing mistakes (and how to avoid them) 
• What runners need to communicate before race day 
• How to support your runner without overwhelming them 
• Why crew needs to take care of themselves, too 
• Practical tips for staying organized, efficient, and adaptable at aid stations 
• The emotional side of crewing—and why it’s so much more than logistics 

Whether you’re a runner, crew member, or new to the ultra world, this episode will change how you think about support, teamwork, and what it really takes to get to the finish line.

Send it to your crew, your runner, or someone stepping into the ultra world for the first time.

How to follow Ashley:

Instagram @ultra.widow

Website

Facebook

TikTok

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

Backyard ultras aren’t won with big moments, flashy workouts, or hype. They’re built on the things no one talks about and the things most runners try to avoid.

In this episode, we break down the “unsexy skills” that actually determine how long you last in a backyard ultra or timed event. The quiet, repetitive, often overlooked habits that become everything when the race stretches into hours 18… 24… 30… and beyond.

Because the truth is, backyard ultras don’t reward excitement. They reward consistency, patience, and discipline.

If you’ve ever wondered what really separates the runners who go long from the ones who fade early, this episode is your blueprint.

🎧 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why consistency beats “hero workouts” every time
• The real role of strength training in ultra performance and injury prevention
• How (and why) to use walking as a strategic tool, not a fallback
• Why repetition and monotony are skills you need to train
• The role of patience in pacing and long-term success
• How ego sabotages races and what to do instead
• Why buying into the process before race day changes everything

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

Backyard ultras require physical fitness, but they are really a test of the mind!

Your brain is designed to keep you safe, not help you perform. You can show up to race day as the fittest runner out there, but your mental game can bring you down the fastest if you haven't practiced it or you've thought "I've got a good mind."

In this episode, Jaci sits down with Neal Palles, a licensed clinical social worker, certified mental performance consultant, ultrarunning coach, and ultrarunner, to break down what’s actually happening in your mind during training and racing.

We dive into the unique mental challenges of backyard ultras, where there’s no defined finish line and every hour presents a new choice: keep going… or stop.

Neal shares how your brain is wired for safety (not performance), why your thoughts get louder when you’re fatigued, and how to work with your mind instead of fighting it.

We also unpack:

• Why you almost always have “one more loop” 
• The benefits of experiential education
• Mental flexibility in ultra runners
• The truth about DNFs (and why they don’t mean what you think) 
• How mental health directly impacts performance
• Why self-compassion is a performance tool that is often overlooked (or more often pushed away)
• Values and how to define them
• How to stay present during races
• A growth mindset versus fear
• Why boredom, pain, and doubt aren’t problems to fix but experiences to navigate 
• A simple mental framework you can train before race day to stay in the race longer 

If you’ve ever felt like your body was capable, but something in your mind held you back, this episode will change how you approach both training and racing.

Follow and learn more about Neal:

https://www.instagram.com/the.trail.mindset/

https://www.instagram.com/nealpalles/

https://coloradopsychotherapyandsport.com/

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

Are you ACTUALLY ready for your backyard ultra? This episode dives into the often overlooked mental, logistical, and emotional readiness required for backyard ultras and timed events.

We discuss the importance of process goals versus only having outcome goals, mental resilience, decision making and handling emotional low points, and strategic preparation to succeed in ultra-distance running.

What questions do you need to ask yourself before training begins to ensure your goals align with your season of life? We cover the thought process needed and how to understand your life support system and training capacity.

Resources:

Episode 14: Goal Setting

Backyard Ultra Preseason Checklist

Process Buy-In Reflection Worksheet

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

In Part 2 of this two-part series, we explore what happens after the race when the dust settles and a familiar thought starts to creep in: “I think I still had one more loop in me.”

If you've ever finished a backyard ultra, timed event, or endurance race and wondered whether you could have gone farther, this episode is for you.

We discuss:

• why so many runners realize after the race that they may have had more left
• the difference between reaching your physical limit and reaching your willingness to stay uncomfortable
• why ultras are nonlinear and how quickly a low can turn around
• how fear, uncertainty, sleep deprivation, and underfueling influence decision-making
• why the urge to stop is not always trustworthy
• how reflecting on your race can help you go farther next time

Most runners don't stop when their body completely forces them to stop. They stop somewhere between "I absolutely can't" and "I don't want to anymore." Learning the difference is one of the most important skills in endurance racing.

This episode is not about regret. It's about growth.

Realizing you had one more loop in you isn't proof that you failed. It's proof that your limits may be farther away than you thought.

Apply. Adapt. Reflect. Adjust.

That's how one race becomes the foundation for the next breakthrough.

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website 

In Part 1 of this two-part series, we’re talking about the moments during an ultra when your brain starts trying to convince you that you’re done.

Not necessarily physically done, but emotionally, mentally, and spiritually done.

If you’ve ever sat in a chair during a backyard ultra convinced there was “no way” you could do another loop, this episode is for you.

We dive into:

• why your brain becomes so convincing during low moments
• the difference between discomfort and true physical limitation
• why runners often quit emotionally before they quit physically
• how psychological flexibility helps runners stay in the race longer
• practical strategies for handling doubt, fear, and overwhelm during ultras

This episode is a reminder that you do not need to feel confident to keep moving forward, and that a temporary low should not always get to make a permanent decision.

Because more often than you think… you’re not actually done yet.

👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.

📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast

📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com

🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them) 

⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website