Summary In this episode, Heidi and Michelle reconnect and reflect on their running journeys, discussing the importance of mindset, community, and acceptance. They explore the challenges and changes they face in their running lives, emphasizing the duality of emotions and the significance of mental health. The conversation highlights the value of therapy and connection, as well as the journey of self-discovery through running. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to embrace the present moment and be kind to themselves as they navigate their own paths.  

In this episode, Heidi and Michelle chat with Derek Sprau, an accomplished ultra runner who shares his journey into the world of ultra running, the mental challenges faced during races, and the importance of community support. Derek discusses his experiences at the Kettle Moraine race, the emotional rollercoaster of leaving a friend behind during a race, and his upcoming adventure at the Bigfoot 200. The conversation highlights the accessibility of ultra running and the personal growth that comes from pushing one's limits.   Follow Derek on Instagram: @turntailandtrail     If you enjoy the show, and want to support us financially, we are so grateful to have your support, and you can do so here: ⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/letsrunthag

Summary In this engaging conversation, Katie shares her journey into the world of ultra running, highlighting her recent races, the supportive community in Florida, and the joy she finds in the sport. She discusses her experiences with FOMO in race registrations, the transformation running has brought to her life, and the importance of the race environment. Katie reflects on her first mountain race, the lessons learned from DNF experiences, and the healing power of nature. The conversation emphasizes the joy of running, the sense of community, and the balance between challenge and enjoyment in the sport.  

  In this episode, Heidi and Michelle welcome Ben Whitehead, who shares his profound running journey, marked by personal loss and the transition from marathons to ultra marathons. Ben discusses the impact of elevation on his running, the emotional connection he feels during races, and the importance of community support, especially after experiencing a DNF. He emphasizes the healing power of helping others and the significance of finding purpose in running. The conversation also touches on upcoming races and the joy of being part of the ultra running community.   Follow Ben on Instagram: @benjamincolorado   Also please check out the Every Day Athlete Clubhouse and join us!! ⁠https://runtrimag.com/product/the-everyday-athlete-clubhouse/⁠   If you enjoy the show, and want to support us financially, we are so grateful to have your support, and you can do so here: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/letsrunthag⁠

In this episode, Anna Epifano shares her inspiring journey into ultra running, highlighting the influence of her son Steve and the importance of family support. The conversation explores the challenges and joys of training for the Blackbeard's Revenge race, the mental aspects of running, and the beauty of nature experienced during runs. Anna reflects on the deeper meaning of ultra running, the community it fosters, and the personal growth that comes from embracing challenges. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of mindfulness and finding joy in the journey of running.   Enjoying the podcast? Support us by liking, reviewing, sharing and subscribing! If you would like to support us financially, you can do so here: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/letsrunthag⁠

Rachel Bambrick, founder of Women in Ultrarunning, joins to chat about her recent DNF at the High Lonesome 100. The discussion dives into ways races can throw unexpected and new challenges, how fueling and mental strength play into our decision making. The discussion also touches on the duality of emotions that accompany a DNF. How disappointment and pride can co-exist and there is no right way to feel. Rachel also gives a background on Women and Ultrarunning and how they are impacting ultrarunning for women currently!   Follow Rachel on Instagram: @rachel_lynn07 @womeninultrarunning ⁠https://www.womeninultrarunning.com/about-us ⁠

In this episode, Miles Victors shares his incredible journey from being 450 pounds to becoming an ultra runner. He discusses the pivotal moments that led to his transformation, the challenges he faced during ultra marathons, and the lessons learned from his experiences, including the importance of managing pain, heat, and hydration. Miles also emphasizes the value of self-worth and the concept of 'failing forward' in the face of setbacks. His unique approach to running in sandals and the strategies he employs to navigate the trails provide valuable insights for both new and experienced runners. In this conversation, Miles Victors shares his experiences with trail running, particularly focusing on the challenges faced during the Devil's Gulch race. He discusses the importance of footwear choices, mental resilience, and the supportive community within the ultra running world. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of celebrating small victories, embracing failures as learning opportunities, and maintaining a positive outlook amidst challenges. Miles reflects on his personal growth through running and the connections formed with fellow runners, highlighting the shared empathy and camaraderie in the sport.   Follow Miles on Instagram: @milesvictors

Summary In this episode, Michelle and Heidi chat with Jill Albrecht about her journey in ultra running, particularly her experiences with the Cocodona race. Jill shares her background, including her sobriety journey and how it led her to discover ultra running. The conversation delves into the community spirit of Cocodona, her fundraising efforts for mental health resources, and the challenges she faced during the 2024 race, including severe weather conditions and injuries. Jill reflects on her decision to DNF and the lessons learned from the experience, emphasizing the importance of self-care and resilience in the face of adversity. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the multifaceted challenges of ultra running, including the physical and mental hurdles faced during races, the emotional aftermath of completing such intense events, and the importance of community support. They discuss the psychological impact of post-race blues, the necessity of taking breaks, and the significance of maintaining a balanced identity outside of running. The conversation highlights the shared experiences of ultra runners and the deep connections formed within the community, emphasizing the need for self-care and understanding the emotional toll of racing.  

In this episode, the hosts celebrate one year of podcasting and welcome Carrie, who shares her unique journey into running, particularly ultra running. Carrie discusses her motivations, the impact of the organization Wear Blue, Run to Remember, and her transition from road running to trail running. She emphasizes the importance of community support, learning to ask for help, and the mental challenges faced during ultra races. The conversation highlights the personal growth that comes from running and the adventures that await beyond racing.   Follow Carrie on Instagram: @wanderlust_trailguide   For more information on Wear ⁠Blue:https://www.wearblueruntoremember.org/⁠

In this episode of Let's Run That, hosts Michelle and Heidi are joined by ultra runners Tom Polen and Stephen Park to discuss their experiences at the Cocodona 250 race. The conversation delves into the challenges faced during the race, the importance of community and support, and the mental and physical strategies required to complete such a grueling event. Tom shares his journey leading up to Cocodona, including his previous attempts and the lessons learned along the way. Stephen provides insight into his own race experience, highlighting the camaraderie among runners and the vital role of nutrition and pacing. The episode culminates in an emotional recounting of the finish line experience, emphasizing the strength of the ultra running community. In this engaging conversation, the speakers reflect on their experiences in ultra running, particularly focusing on the challenges and triumphs faced during races. They discuss the importance of community, support, and mental resilience, as well as the lessons learned from both successes and DNFs. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of setting clear goals, adapting to challenges, and cultivating kindness within the running community. Ultimately, they highlight the journey of self-discovery and the connections formed through shared experiences in the sport.   Follow Tom & Stephen on Instagram: @raymond_now @irunfarslowly

In this episode, ultra runners Stacy and Kyle share their unique journeys into the world of ultra running, discussing their experiences with races, the challenges of DNFs, and the dynamics of racing together as a couple. They reflect on the mental and physical aspects of endurance sports, the importance of community support, and the lessons learned from their various race experiences. The conversation highlights the personal growth that comes from pushing one's limits and the camaraderie found within the ultra running community. Stacy shares her journey through ultra running, discussing the challenges she faced, the mental strength required, and the joy she found in the process. She reflects on the importance of community support, and her preparation for winter ultras. The discussion emphasizes the significance of persistence, learning from failures, and the fun aspects of endurance racing.   Follow Stacy and Kyle on Instagram: @endurance_unicorn_ @kyle.kalbus

In this episode, Heidi and Michelle discuss Michelle's experience at Cocodona 250 in May. Michelle reflects on the challenges faced during Cocodona, including weather conditions, mental resilience, and the importance of sleep. The conversation also touches on the role of pacers, the emotional journey of ultra running, and strategies for upcoming races. They emphasize the significance of visualization and staying present during the race, as well as the support from their crews, and touch on some thoughts as Heidi approaches the Devil's Gulch 100 this upcoming weekend.

In this episode, Chrissy Blankenship shares her inspiring journey from hating running in the Army to becoming an ultra runner. She discusses the importance of community, mental challenges, and the balance between family life and training. Chrissy reflects on her experiences with 100K and 100-mile races, emphasizing the mental and physical preparation required for ultra running. She also shares insights on overcoming obstacles, the solitary nature of long-distance running, and her plans for the upcoming Devil Dog 100-Miler.

In this episode, Molly Hernandez shares her journey from road running to ultra running, detailing her experiences with her first 100 mile attempt at Rocky Raccoon. She discusses the challenges of training, the mental hurdles faced on race day, and the importance of community support. Molly reflects on her DNF experience, emphasizing the lessons learned and the value of perseverance. She also touches on fueling strategies and the emotional aspects of ultra running, ultimately inspiring listeners to embrace their own journeys in the sport. Follow Molly on Instagram: @yourrunningbff

In this conversation, Melissa Londry shares her journey from a new mother to an accomplished ultra runner and race director. She discusses the challenges she faced during her races, particularly the Mamba 100, and the mental load of balancing family responsibilities with her passion for running. Melissa emphasizes the importance of self-care for mothers and the need for inclusive spaces in the running community, particularly through organizations like Trail Sisters, which advocate for women's rights in sports. The discussion highlights the ongoing gender disparity in ultra running and the efforts being made to create a more supportive environment for female athletes. Melissa discusses the challenges faced by female runners in trail and ultra running, including the intimidation of technical trails and the fear of not being fast enough. The discussion shifts to the importance of addressing sexual harassment in the running community, emphasizing the need for policies and support systems to create a safe environment for all participants. The conversation also touches on the societal pressures women face regarding their appearance while running, the role of men in combating gender issues, and the importance of building a supportive community for all runners. Melissa shares her future plans and the ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity and safety in the sport. On Instagram, follow along with Melissa's races! @newrivertrailraces @crystalspringultras   ⁠www.swvarunning.com⁠ ⁠https://ustrailrunningconference.com/speakers/⁠

In this episode, we chat with Claire Bochenek, a passionate runner who shares her experiences with the Marathon des Sables (MDS), a grueling six-day race through the Moroccan desert. Claire discusses her journey into running, the allure of MDS, her training and preparation challenges, and the excitement of race day. She also delves into the logistical aspects of traveling to Morocco, the atmosphere of the race, and the importance of foot care and nutrition during such an intense event. We discuss the importance of nutrition, mental strategies for coping with physical challenges, and the unexpected realities of racing in extreme conditions. The conversation highlights the psychological impact of witnessing others struggle, the physical toll of the race, and the reflections that come after such a demanding experience. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the need for balance and acceptance in one's running journey.   Follow Claire on Instagram: @clairebeaux

In this episode, Heidi and Michelle chat with Elliot Matson, the founder of Folklord, a trail running apparel brand. They discuss the unique designs inspired by mythology, the journey of building the brand, and the importance of storytelling in connecting with the running community. Elliot shares his personal running experiences and the challenges of creating a brand that stands out in the outdoor apparel market. In this conversation, they explore the intersection of folklore, design, and the running community. Elliot shares how he draws inspiration from various folklore elements while emphasizing joy, community, and storytelling in their designs. They discuss the importance of branding through unique photography and the playful spirit of running, moving away from the traditional focus on suffering in the sport. The conversation also touches on the significance of mindset, finding joy in the journey, and creating accessible products that resonate with the community. Follow along on Instagram: @wearfolklord ⁠https://wearfolklord.com/⁠

In this episode, Heidi and Michelle welcome Julie Shobe, a registered dietitian specializing in ultra running nutrition. They discuss the critical role of nutrition in preventing DNFs (Did Not Finish) in races, the importance of protein for muscle repair, and common mistakes ultra runners make regarding fueling. Julie shares her journey into this niche of nutrition, emphasizing the need for variety and practical tips for runners to optimize their performance. The conversation highlights the interplay between nutrition and mindset, providing valuable insights for both novice and experienced ultra runners. Julie shares her expertise on nutrition strategies for ultra runners, discussing the importance of variety in fueling, understanding race terrain, and managing hydration and mouth issues during long races. She emphasizes the need for strategic planning in nutrition, the common mistakes runners make, and how to respond to nutritional deficits effectively. The discussion also covers the challenges of navigating nutrition marketing and the benefits of incorporating real food into an ultra running diet.   Check out all the great content Julie has on Instagram! @ultra.running.nutrition

In this episode, Paul Gibbs shares his unique journey into the world of ultra running, discussing his experiences with DNFs, and the lessons learned along the way. From his initial motivation to run after a personal loss to his attempts at the Long Haul 100, Paul reflects on the challenges and triumphs of his running career. He emphasizes the importance of community support, proper training, and mental resilience in overcoming obstacles in ultra running. The conversation also touches on the significance of nutrition and hydration strategies during long races, as well as the emotional impact of social media on runners' self-perception. The conversation explores themes of comparison, personal growth, and the significance of nutrition in performance, culminating in reflections on recent race experiences and the evolution of his training approach.   Follow Paul's journey to 100 miles on Instagram: @theblueeyedrunner24

In this conversation, ultra runner John Kelly discusses his experiences with the Barkley Marathons and other multi-day events. He shares insights into the allure of these challenging races, the mental strategies he employs when faced with obstacles, and his thoughts on the critics of such events. John emphasizes the importance of patience, adaptability, and finding meaning in arbitrary challenges, as well as the mental processes behind DNFing (Did Not Finish) during races. In this conversation, John shares his experiences with the Barkley Marathons, discussing the lessons learned from his DNF (Did Not Finish) experiences and how his mindset has evolved over time. He emphasizes the importance of intrinsic motivation, the value of enjoying the journey rather than fixating solely on the finish, and how reframing goals has changed his approach to racing. John also touches on the absurdity of pursuing challenging goals and the significance of nutrition and preparation in ultra running. He concludes with insights on pursuing big dreams, like his upcoming Appalachian Trail FKT attempt, encouraging others to embrace challenges and learn from failures.