Vol State: It's All About the People – Details, episodes & analysis

Kara has a surprise discussion about her 2025 race but that's at the end so you have to listen to the whole thing. It will definitely be worth it because she shows how she overcame near hypothermia (yes, that can happen even in July so don't be smug), switching to crewed as she kept her primary goal in mind - reaching the rock. Full of wisdom and gritty stories, Kara earned her mashed potatoes (teasing you).

What a legend. Paul Heckert is well known throughout the running (and especially the ultra) community. His is definitely a Vol State master and one to whom I owe a great deal since he saved my race in 2021! That's when he got the nickname "The Warden" because he adopted that role so readily in keeping me trudging over the miles to reach the Rock. I owe Paul a great deal. Enjoy your listen!

This episode features a Spam loving Race Director who has participated in all three summer vacations without a car - Vol State, HOTS and Third Circle. Can you spell "Wise"? Or maybe there's a better word??? Enjoy his adventures as he brings you along in his pack.

Another Vol State friend for life. After the 2018 Vol State, Diane helped me in my attempt to cross the US. without her, I'd have ended up in Hawaii since I'm so geographically challenged. But this retired Marine was definitely always faithful and always there for me. You can't ask for a better friend! Listen to her Vol State and HOTS escapades.

Another man near and dear to my heart and further proof of the friendships made along the road at Vol State. Justin Daniels is one of the kindest and most generous men I know. Check out RunningForCOPD on Facebook and also go to www.COPDfoundation.org and search for Justin's name..or you can simply google Justin Daniels Running for COPD. It's a great cause and I was honored to listen to him talk about it.

This is a special episode so I called it a bonus. Mr. & Mrs. Bailey sent me a written document with all the answers to the questions I would have asked. They did this in lieu of being on the podcast. So, today I read his document in order for you to see what wonderful people the Baileys are. It's one sided but I hope I did his epistle justice!

If you want detail about what to pack and what to pay attention to, you've come to the right episode. Jenny Appel is the detail gal. And she has some really useful quotes to help you too.

Having a great dea in common with Emmanuel this was a joy to record. He's such a humble guy yet filled with so much knowledge. It's so enjoyable to listen to his tales.

What a wealth of information! Dexter has done so much and shares the down to the basics with us to help make it through those 314 miles across Tennessee. This is a can't miss episode!

Note: This episode seems louder than usual so turn down your volume before you begin.

Andrea Sloan has an amazing resume and she shares her wisdom from her many ultras, including, of course, Vol State. Canada is so lucky to have her!