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  • This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're lacing up our boots and hitting the trail with John Hardin & Keith Overbay as they talk about crewing and setting the Natchez Trace FKT.

    We're not just talking about the miles and the records. We dive deep into the heart and soul of these FKT attempts, exploring the meticulous preparation, the emotional rollercoasters, and the physical challenges that push runners to their limits. It's a raw and honest look at what it takes to chase those big, audacious goals.

    But it's not just about grit and determination. We also talk about the power of community and support in the ultra world, and how those connections can lift you up when the going gets tough. It's a reminder that we're all in this together, and that shared passion can fuel incredible achievements.

    So if you've ever dreamed of chasing your own FKT, or if you're simply inspired by stories of human resilience and perseverance, this episode is a must-listen.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Guests and Their Journey

    05:39 John's Running Journey and Early Experiences

    11:28 Keith's Entry into Running and Shared Experiences

    13:54 The Natchez Trace FKT Attempt: Background and Preparation

    18:18 Preparation and Training for the FKT

    26:21 Challenges Faced During the FKT Attempt

    31:24 Final Preparations and Logistics for the FKT

    33:51 Preparation and Day One Overview

    46:56 Day Two Challenges and Adjustments

    57:22 Day Three: Injury and Mental Struggles

    01:04:35 The Struggle of Endurance

    01:08:31 Finding Strength in Pain

    01:11:53 Mental Challenges and Breakthroughs

    01:17:37 The Role of Support and Crew

    01:23:57 The Final Push to the Finish Line

    01:35:00 The Journey to the FKT

    01:42:56 The Emotional and Mental Aspects of Running

    01:48:09 Community and Connection in Trail Running

    01:52:58 The Challenges of Crewing

    01:56:04 Looking Ahead: Future Adventures

  • It's a Christmas special on the Dirt and Vert Podcast! This week, we're taking a look back sharing the highs, the lows, and the lessons learned along the way.

    We dive into hydration, nutrition, and how important it is to find a community that supports your running journey. It's a reminder that we're all in this together, and those connections make all the difference.

    We also talk about some of our upcoming races, and offer some tips for runners of all levels. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro, it's all about preparation, consistency, and finding the joy in every step.

    So grab a cup of hot cocoa, lace up your shoes, and join us for a Christmas episode filled with grit, gratitude, and the spirit of the ultra.


    Chapters

    00:00 Welcome to the Christmas Special

    01:48 Matt's Running Journey and Races

    09:22 Training Strategies and Future Goals

    18:28 12 Tips and Tricks for Runners

    35:38 The Importance of Recovery

    37:39 Training Specificity for Races

    39:46 Strength Training Essentials

    40:36 Understanding Electrolyte Balance

    43:11 Finding Your Running Community

    45:23 Hydration Strategies for Race Week

    48:55 Gear Familiarity and Testing

    54:17 Navigating the Last Miles of a 100-Miler

    58:04 Terrain Awareness for Runners

    01:00:23 Fueling Strategies for Endurance Races

    01:02:57 Hydration Variety in Training

    01:06:32 The Value of Volunteering

    01:08:11 Caffeine Management for Performance

    01:10:17 Challenging Yourself for Growth

    01:13:17 Preparing for Races: The Importance of Drop Bags

    01:14:13 Consistency in Training: The Key to Success

    01:15:17 Lessons Learned: Reflections on 2024

    01:17:12 Embracing Variety in Training

    01:18:37 Essential Gear for Runners

    01:21:50 Gift Ideas for Runners

    01:23:11 Injury Updates and Recovery

    01:24:34 Fueling Strategies for Ultra Races

    01:25:15 Music Motivation: The Power of a Song

    01:26:31 Memorable Running Moments of 2024

    01:36:12 Training Tips for the New Year

    01:37:33 The Role of Pacers in Races

    01:40:49 Reflecting on Achievements and Community

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  • This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the incredible Michael Basuini, an accomplished ultra runner and coach who embodies the true spirit of the sport.

    Mike's journey is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep love for the trails. He shares his evolution from mountain biker to runner, his experiences in college athletics, and the transition to coaching others. We talk about those early ultra races, the lessons learned, and how coaching has evolved over time.

    But it's not just about training plans and finish lines. Mike dives into the importance of fueling your body, the mental fortitude it takes to tackle those tough races, and the challenges of taking on iconic events like Grindstone 100K and Never Summer 100K.

    We also explore the unique challenges of altitude running and how Mike's passion for the sport has shaped his life. It's a reminder that running isn't just about the miles; it's about the community, the personal growth, and the joy it brings to every day.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Mike Basuini

    06:16 Transitioning to Coaching and Chattanooga

    11:37 First 50K Experience and Lessons Learned

    17:24 Finding Limits in Ultra Running

    23:00 Looking Glass 50-Miler Victory

    28:33 The Impact of COVID on Coaching

    35:57 Transitioning to 100K Races

    51:07 Training for the Pinhoti 100

    01:00:03 Fueling Strategies and Lessons Learned

    01:05:59 Upcoming Races and Personal Goals

    01:13:52 The Motivation Behind Running

    01:19:45 Favorite Nutrition Choices During Races

    01:24:07 Key Lessons Learned in Ultra Running

  • This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the incredible Alicia McClary, an ultra runner whose story will leave you speechless.Alicia's journey is one of resilience, determination, and the power of the human spirit to overcome even the toughest challenges. We talk about her incredible transformation from cancer survivor to endurance athlete, and how running became her lifeline during those difficult times.Alicia opens up about the physical and mental hurdles she's faced, including a serious health scare that nearly derailed her dreams. It's a raw and honest look at the grit and determination it takes to keep going when the odds are stacked against you.We also dive into the incredible camaraderie of the ultra community, and how those connections can lift you up when you need it most. It's a beautiful reminder that we're all in this together.Alicia's story is a testament to the strength we all have within us. It's a story of hope, resilience, and the unwavering belief in the power of the human spirit.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Alicia McClary01:25 Alicia's Journey into Running03:14 Overcoming Cancer and Finding Purpose06:41 The Impact of Cancer on Alicia's Life11:55 Starting the Couch to 5K Program14:01 Transitioning from 5K to Ultra Running18:25 Experiences with Trail Races20:45 Challenges Faced During Races25:05 Understanding Rhabdomyolysis28:35 The Importance of Hydration in Running30:01 The Watermelon Choice: A Flavorful Start30:47 Breaking Down the Race: Elevation and Endurance32:04 Overcoming Challenges: The Mental Game of Racing33:17 Hydration and Health: Lessons from Rhabdo33:56 First Steps into Ultra Racing: The Backyard Ultra Experience34:30 Training for Success: Building Up to the Backyard Ultra37:43 Fueling Strategies: Real Food vs. Gels40:25 The Competitive Spirit: Progression in Backyard Ultras45:09 Strolling Jim: A Hilly Adventure48:12 Community and Connection: The Heart of Racing54:28 The Dance of the Unexpected57:44 Overcoming Adversity in Racing01:00:51 The Journey Through Illness and Recovery01:10:28 Community Support in Times of Crisis01:16:56 Inspiration from Fellow Runners01:21:22 Exploring Future Races and Goals01:27:56 The Motivation Behind Running01:31:49 Favorite Distances and Events01:36:24 Community and Support in Running01:40:03 Race Recommendations and Future Plans

  • This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the incredible Rachel Drake, a newly minted doctor who also happens to be an amazing ultra runner who just shattered the women's course record at the JFK 50!

    Rachel's journey is nothing short of inspiring. We hear about her evolution from high school track star to ultra marathoner, including the Mackenzie River 50K where she met her husband. We dive deep into the challenges of those 100-mile races, the power of the running community, and the lessons she's learned along the way.

    But it's not just about breaking records. Rachel reminds us that running is about joy, personal growth, and discovering the incredible strength we all have within.




    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Rachel Drake

    02:25 Rachel's Journey into Running

    04:50 The Impact of Education on Running

    09:30 Discovering Ultra Running

    10:50 Lessons from the First Ultra

    13:52 Transitioning to Longer Distances

    19:16 Experiences in 100K Races

    24:28 The Importance of Grit and Resilience

    28:33 Racing in Europe: CCC and UTMB

    31:01 The Black Canyon 100K and Future Goals

    31:04 Navigating Race Conditions and Mental Strategies

    37:19 First-Time Experiences at Western States

    40:15 JFK 50: Embracing New Challenges

    50:48 The Emotional Journey of Racing

    56:40 Community and Connection in Running

  • This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we were honored to have ultra runner Whitney Dancaster join us. Her story is one of incredible resilience and determination.

    Whitney shared her inspiring journey into the world of ultras, from those early races to taking on incredible challenges like the Keys 100 and Long Haul 100. She spoke with such honesty about the obstacles she faced in her first ultra, and how she discovered the strength to overcome them.

    But it's not just about pushing limits. Whitney highlighted the incredible community within the ultra world, and how those connections can lift you up when you need it most. It's a beautiful reminder that we're all in this together.

    We also delved into her experiences at the legendary Barkley Fall Classic, a race that pushes runners to the very edge of what's possible. Whitney shared valuable lessons about respecting your body, the importance of healing, and the courage to keep going.

    Whether you're a seasoned ultra runner or just starting to explore the trails, Whitney's story is filled with wisdom, kindness, and a passion that will ignite your own spirit.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Whitney Dancaster

    01:29 Whitney's Journey into Ultra Running

    04:37 Military Background and Early Running Experiences

    05:31 First Encounter with Ultra Running

    09:20 The Challenges of the Keys 100

    13:44 Lessons Learned from Ultra Running

    16:55 The Mental Battle in Ultra Running

    24:44 Reflections on the Keys 100 Accident

    31:05 Memorable Experiences from Long Haul 100

    33:26 Track Ultras and Community Vibes

    35:24 Chasing Ultra Running Goals

    43:01 The Thrill of Track Ultras

    50:34 Lessons from the Long Haul 100

    01:03:02 Future Aspirations in Ultra Running

    01:04:00 The Importance of Crew in Backyard Ultras

    01:06:47 Navigating the Barkley Fall Classic

    01:15:29 Dehydration and Salt Management in Ultra Running

    01:34:00 The Endurance Athlete Mindset and Community

    01:38:38 Hydration Strategies for Endurance Runners

    01:41:40 Innovative Solutions for Race Challenges

    01:44:12 Sponsorships and Brand Partnerships in Running

    01:46:07 Choosing the Right Gear for Performance

    01:47:54 Training Insights: Overtraining vs. Undertraining

    01:50:38 Nutrition and Fueling During Races

    01:55:19 Future Goals and Upcoming Races

    01:58:08 The Rise of Female Athletes in Ultra Running

  • On this week's Dirt and Vert Podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Leah Mulligan, an incredible ultra runner from Chattanooga. Leah's story is all about passion, perseverance, and the power of community.

    We traced her journey from those early running days to her leap into the ultra world, and how her family and the running community fueled her every step of the way. Leah also opened up about her training, the dynamics of working with a coach, and the challenges she faced in those first ultra races.

    But it's not just about the miles. Leah shared some incredible insights about the mental side of ultra running, the importance of staying positive, and how she balances life, running, and everything in between.

    Of course, we couldn't forget about her recent achievements! Leah talked about those podium finishes, the lessons she's learned from both victories and setbacks, and her exciting plans for future races.

    Whether you're a seasoned ultra runner or just starting out, Leah's story is a powerful reminder that with hard work, dedication, and a whole lot of heart, you can achieve incredible things.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Leah Mulligan and Her Running Journey

    03:00 Early Influences and Transition to Ultra Running

    06:01 College Running Experience and First Ultra

    08:40 Experiences with Early Races and Community

    11:35 First 12-Hour Race and Achievements

    14:31 First 100-Mile Race: Penhody

    17:10 The Importance of Community in Ultra Running

    20:13 Lessons Learned from Ultra Running

    23:09 Future Goals and Aspirations in Running

    33:29 Altitude Challenges and Early Experiences

    36:25 Learning from Racing: Humbling Experiences

    39:08 Running by Feel vs. Data

    42:02 Coaching and Performance Growth

    45:02 Racing in Unique Locations: CCC and Beyond

    47:30 Community and Support in Racing

    50:21 Home Races and Personal Growth

    53:15 Technical Challenges in Mountain Racing

    59:07 Crossing the Marriage Threshold Through Running

    59:53 The Blue Ridge Ultra Experience

    01:00:52 Shared Success in Racing

    01:01:49 The Balance of Life and Running

    01:03:38 Finding Joy in Running

    01:05:30 The SCAR FKT Journey

    01:10:15 Future FKT Aspirations

    01:13:06 Challenging Races Ahead

    01:17:04 The Deeper Meaning of Running

    01:24:30 Pushing Limits and Problem Solving

    01:29:00 Finding Your Race Strategy

    01:30:20 Overcoming Low Patches in Races

    01:36:44 The Journey into Coaching

    01:41:10 Building a Business Together

  • On this week's Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by ultra-badass Tara Dower and her incredible crew member, Rascal, to talk about Tara's recent Fastest Known Time (FKT) attempt on the Appalachian Trail.Tara's journey is nothing short of inspiring. We get into the nitty-gritty of her training, the challenges she faced on the trail, and the mental fortitude it takes to chase such a massive goal.Rascal pulls back the curtain on what it's like to support an FKT attempt. From coordinating logistics to providing on-the-ground support, it's a masterclass in teamwork and problem-solving.But this isn't just a story about logistics and miles. Tara opens up about the emotional and physical rollercoaster of the FKT, and the lessons she learned along the way. It's a raw and honest look at the highs and lows of chasing a dream.Whether you're an aspiring FKT chaser or just love a good adventure story, this episode will leave you fired up and ready to tackle your own challenges.In this conversation: Tara Dower, Rascal, David Compton, & Matthew WilliamsChapters00:00 Introduction to the Journey03:23 Meeting on the Trail06:17 Preparing for the FKT09:18 Crew Dynamics and Challenges12:23 The First Major Hurdle15:24 Adjusting to the Demands18:19 Logistical Coordination21:21 The Role of Support Crew28:58 The Importance of Preparation and Equipment31:01 Adapting to Challenges During the Journey34:31 Mental Resilience in Ultra Running36:20 Crew Dynamics and Support39:21 Pushing Limits: The Longest Days41:55 The Role of Humor and Team Spirit49:35 Nutrition and Hydration Strategies55:03 Sleep Strategies and Recovery57:00 The Final Push: Overcoming the Last Hurdles58:32 Pushing Towards the Record01:00:59 Emotional Moments Before the Finish01:03:37 Celebrating the Journey01:06:01 Reflections on the Accomplishment01:09:17 Inspiring Others Through Achievement01:12:35 Art and Community Impact01:14:45 Listener Questions and Insights

  • This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we had the pleasure of chatting with ultra runner David Sullivan. David's journey in the ultra world is nothing short of inspiring, and he shared some incredible insights with us.
    We talked about his evolution from casual runner to podium finisher, and how gratitude and community have played a huge role in his success. David also emphasized the mental side of racing – how important it is to stay focused and resilient when the going gets tough.
    Of course, we couldn't forget about the physical challenges of ultra running! David dove into the importance of nutrition, hydration, and having a solid support crew, especially in those grueling 100-mile races.
    But it's not just about crossing the finish line. David opened up about the personal growth that comes with pushing your limits and facing those challenges head-on. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, David's story is a powerful reminder that we're all capable of achieving incredible things.

    In this Conversation:
    David Sullivan, David Compton & Matthew Williams


    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to David Sullivan
    06:06 Gratitude in Ultra Running
    12:16 First Race Experiences
    17:12 Overcoming Challenges in Racing
    22:12 Mental Resilience in Ultra Running
    27:42 The Race Experience: Fun vs. Competition
    32:53 First 100-Mile Race: Overcoming Intimidation
    41:12 The Mindset of Racing: Control and Commitment
    51:04 Memorable Race Moments: Weather and Community
    58:51 Training Philosophy and Mindset
    01:05:47 Fueling Strategies and Nutrition
    01:11:18 The Emotional Journey of Racing
    01:17:49 Finding Your Why in Running
    01:26:01 The Joy of Racing
    01:32:44 Personal Running Journeys and Family Involvement


  • This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we sat down with ultra runner Ron Wireman. Ron's no stranger to pushing limits, and he shared some incredible stories from his experiences at Bob's Backyard Ultra and Big's Backyard Ultra.

    We dove deep into the nitty-gritty of backyard ultras, from the unique challenges they present to the incredible camaraderie among runners. Ron opened up about his training, race day strategies, and how he fuels himself to keep going.

    But it's not just about the physical stuff. Ron got real about the mental battles he faced during those races – the grit and determination it takes to overcome pain and keep pushing forward. He also talked about the importance of teamwork and support in the ultra world, and how those bonds help runners achieve the impossible.

    Whether you're a seasoned ultra runner or just curious about this crazy sport, Ron's insights are sure to inspire you to chase your own adventures and discover the strength within.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Ron Wireman and His Achievements

    06:30 Training and Preparation for Big's Backyard Ultra

    12:08 Logistics and Crew Management for Big's

    18:05 Nutrition Strategies During the Race

    23:55 Hallucinations and Mental Challenges During the Race

    35:31 Navigating the Challenges of Endurance Racing

    44:44 Team Dynamics and Support in Ultra Running

    53:29 The Mental Game: Pushing Through Pain and Fatigue

    01:00:01 Nutrition and Hydration Strategies for Endurance

    01:08:49 Gear Choices: Finding the Right Shoes for the Race

    01:15:55 Achieving Personal Records and Overcoming Challenges

    01:25:03 Advice for First-Time Backyard Racers

    01:34:45 Finding Your Passion in Endurance Sports

    01:45:31 Navigating Pain in Endurance Running

    01:51:29 The Role of Mental Resilience

    01:59:28 Crew Support and Decision Making

    02:11:19 Future Goals and Reflections

  • Shattering records with 526 miles in 6 days at the Dome and the most recent female world record at Big's Backyard Ultra with a jaw-dropping 362 miles! That's the mind-boggling distances ultra runner Meg Eckert has achieved in 2024. On this episode of Dirt and Vert, Meg takes us inside this incredible feat of endurance, sharing the mental and physical hurdles she overcame. From her transition to trail running to tackling her first 100-miler, Meg reveals the challenges and triumphs that have shaped her ultra journey. Plus, she dives deep into the crucial role of nutrition, recovery, and mental resilience in pushing human limits. Get ready to be inspired by Meg's unwavering passion and dedication to the sport.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Meg Eckert and Her Achievements

    06:14 Transitioning to Ultra Distances

    11:46 The Challenge of Six Days at the Dome

    17:26 Nutrition and Recovery Strategies

    23:13 Final Thoughts and Future Goals

    41:35 Memorable Races and Personal Highlights

    46:59 The Challenge of Big Horn 100

    54:17 The Backyard Ultra Experience

    01:01:36 Facing Challenges and Mental Strategies

    01:07:05 Lessons from DNF Experiences

    01:20:21 The Mental Game of Endurance Running

    01:29:44 The Joy of Running and Personal Challenges

    01:37:15 Hallucinations and the Ultra Running Experience

    01:45:27 Reflections on Accomplishments and Future Goals

  • Imagine collapsing mid-marathon, waking up in the hospital, and facing the possibility of never walking again. That's exactly what happened to ultra runner Heather Watson. In this episode, Heather shares her harrowing experience of suffering a stroke during a race, the surreal moments she experienced while unconscious, and the critical role a paramedic played in saving her life. Hear how she fought back with unwavering determination, battling communication difficulties and fear during her hospitalization, to embark on a remarkable journey of recovery fueled by resilience, community support, and the joy of running.

  • In this episode of the Dirt and Vert podcast, hosts David and Matt sit down with Ken Zemach, the 2023 King of the Road, to discuss his journey into ultra running. Ken shares how personal struggles led him to take up running seriously at the age of 39, losing weight and finding a coping mechanism through the sport. He emphasizes the importance of coaching and accountability in training, as well as the strategies he employs to optimize his running experiences, particularly in challenging races like Vol State and Badwater. The conversation also delves into the significance of heat training, pacing strategies, and the community aspect of ultra running, highlighting how these elements contribute to personal growth and enjoyment in the sport. In this conversation, Ken Zemach shares his insights on pacing, discipline, and the transformative power of running. He discusses his personal experiences in ultra races, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the journey and finding joy in the process. Ken also highlights the significance of nutrition and personal limits in endurance racing, providing practical strategies for aspiring ultra runners.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Ken Zemach and His Journey

    06:17 The Catalyst for Change: Personal Struggles and Running

    12:17 The Role of Coaching and Accountability in Running

    18:16 Optimizing the Vol State Experience

    24:03 Comparing Vol State and Badwater: Different Experiences

    30:15 Heat Training: Strategies and Benefits

    35:53 Pacing Strategies: The Importance of Even Splits

    42:00 The Experience of Running: Community and Personal Growth

    01:03:20 The Importance of Pacing in Ultra Running

    01:10:51 Finding Your Personal Limits and Discipline

    01:17:09 Memorable Races and Personal Achievements

    01:30:13 The Transformative Power of Running

    01:36:29 Why Running Brings Peace and Joy

    01:38:26 Strategies for Endurance Racing

    01:48:50 Nutrition Choices for Ultra Runners

    02:04:11 The Joy of Running and Community

    02:05:13 Life-Changing Experiences in Running

  • In this episode of the Dirt and Vert podcast, David and Matt sit down with Lauren Beihoffer, a former research scientist turned ultra running coach. Lauren shares her inspiring journey from being a non-runner to a passionate endurance athlete, detailing her experiences with various races, the challenges she faced, and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation delves into the importance of nutrition, the balance between strength training and running, and the unique experiences of coaching others in the ultra running community. Lauren also recounts her adventure on the reality show 'Naked and Afraid,' highlighting the challenges of survival and the perspective it gave her on comfort and resilience. The episode concludes with a discussion on the reasons why we run and the joy it brings to our lives.

    Chapters

    00:00 From Research to Running: Lauren's Journey

    04:28 The First 50K Experience: Trials and Triumphs

    09:28 Learning the Ropes: Nutrition and Hydration in Ultra Running

    15:23 Facing the Elements: The Hardest Race

    20:26 Fueling Strategies: Finding What Works

    30:28 Lessons Learned: The Continuous Journey of an Ultra Runner

    40:58 Lessons from Early Races

    45:38 Listening to Your Body

    51:18 Balancing Performance and Longevity

    57:20 The Ebb and Flow of Training

    01:01:27 The Journey into Coaching

    01:10:04 Why I Run

    01:11:47 Experiences on Naked and Afraid

  • In this episode of the Dirt & Vert Podcast, hosts David and Matt discuss their upcoming races, the Yeti 100 and Firewater, and share insights on training, nutrition strategies, and recovery practices. They reflect on past races, the importance of community in running, and their goals for future events. The conversation emphasizes the significance of proper training, hydration, and recovery in achieving running success. This podcast was to be released after Yeti 100 but unfortunately the southeast has been hit very hard with flooding from Hurricane Helene and most races around this area were cancelled. We hope you and your families are safe and our hearts go out to everyone who has lost friends and family during this time.

    We love you guys!

    -David & Matt

  • In this engaging conversation, Chris Clemens shares his inspiring journey from a life-altering accident that he overcame to becoming an accomplished ultra runner finishing Vol State an incredible 6 times. He discusses the challenges he faced during recovery, the importance of community and support, and his experiences in various races. The dialogue highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of running. In this engaging conversation, Chris Clemens shares his journey through endurance racing, discussing the challenges and triumphs he has faced along the way. He emphasizes the importance of overcoming obstacles, the mental game of racing, and the transformative power of these experiences. The discussion also touches on personal growth, time management, and the balance between running and life. Chris reflects on why he runs, the lessons learned from bad races, and how these experiences shape his perspective on life. He also shares insights on his training strategies and favorite gear, concluding with a discussion on the evolution of his race preferences.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Background

    01:26 Overcoming Adversity: A Traumatic Brain Injury

    03:04 Progressing in Running: From 5K to Marathons

    03:53 Discovering Ultra Distances

    04:46 The Vol State Race: A Special Connection

    06:09 The Wood Chip Incident and Recovery

    11:52 Consistency and Hard Work

    14:22 Changing Academic and Career Paths

    16:11 From Marathons to Ultras

    20:33 Running in Extreme Weather

    21:01 Finding Joy and Freedom in Healthy Habits

    26:46 Different race formats

    30:13 The Importance of Listening and Being Present

    39:36 Evolution of Favorite Distances

    41:30 Favorite races

    45:41 Challenging race experiences

    48:15 The role of race directors

    49:08 Conclusion and Takeaways

    50:04 The Challenges and Growth of Ball State and Warhammer

    52:08 Adapting and Overcoming Obstacles in Races

    54:38 Navigating Difficult Sections of Races

    58:07 The Varied Terrain of Races

    01:00:00 Races: A Catalyst for Personal Growth and Perspective

    01:00:36 The Challenges of Warhammer

    01:03:15 The Unexpected Difficulty of Races

    01:07:35 The HOTS 2022 Race: Unknown Challenges

    01:09:11 Choosing to Overcome Challenges

    01:11:04 Making the Most of Your Time and Prioritizing Passions

  • In this episode, David interviews Davy Crockett, who has completed over 165 races and is a member of the 100-100s club. Davy shares his journey into running, starting in his mid-40s and gradually progressing to longer distances. He discusses his experience with injuries, including a stress fracture in his tibia, and how he recovered and continued running. Davy also talks about his involvement in creating the 100-100s club and the common traits shared by its members. The conversation highlights the determination and tenacity required to complete 100-mile races and the camaraderie within the ultra running community. Davy Crockett discusses his running journey and the races he has participated in. Davy shares his experience of getting back into running after knee replacements and how he gradually improved his speed. He also discusses some of the hardest and most memorable 100-mile races he has done. Davy explains how he started the website ultrarunninghistory.com to track and document the history of ultrarunning, including the early races and records. Davy Crockett discusses the fascinating history of ultrarunning and his work in documenting the achievements of ultrarunners. He shares stories of the early days of ultrarunning, including the crazy and bizarre events that took place. Davy also talks about his books on ultrarunning history and where they can be found. He mentions his favorite place to run, the Grand Canyon, and the history of rim-to-rim running. Davy emphasizes the importance of recognizing the rich history of ultrarunning and the individuals who paved the way.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

    01:47 Davey's Running Journey and Introduction to the 100 100s Club

    06:53 Overcoming Challenges and Persevering in Ultra Running

    11:39 The Creation and Significance of the 100 100s Club

    17:50 Researching and Recognizing Achievements in Ultra Running

    22:30 The Traits and Characteristics of 100 100s Club Members

    28:49 The Growth and Inspiration in the Ultra Running Community

    35:29 Training Methods and Personal Experiences in Ultra Running

    37:40 Admiring Rob Apple: The Ultra Legend

    39:31 Overcoming Knee Replacements and Regaining Speed

    42:24 The Toughest and Most Memorable 100-Mile Races

    54:49 Preserving the History of Ultrarunning

    01:08:57 The Crazy and Bizarre Era of Ultrarunning

    01:10:23 Exploring the History of Rim-to-Rim Running in the Grand Canyon

    01:16:25 The First 100-Mile Race in the US

    01:17:49 The Early Trails and Mountain Hundreds

    01:20:50 The Peace and Quiet of Running Alone

    01:25:50 Verifying Ultrarunning Records

    01:28:57 The 100 100s: Recognizing Ultrarunning Achievements

    01:31:38 Dealing with DNFs and Mental Challenges

  • Aaron Dana, a trail runner, shares his journey into running and the mental health benefits he experienced. He started running in 2019 and quickly fell in love with trail running. Running became his outlet and a way to cope with stress. He found that running helped him manage his mental health and gave him a sense of accomplishment. Aaron progressed from running a half marathon to completing a 100-mile race. He learned valuable lessons about pacing, nutrition, and hydration. Aaron's goal is to continue improving and pushing his limits in ultra running. Aaron reflects on the mental growth and lessons he learned over the years of participating in the Midstate Mile race. He emphasizes the importance of celebrating wins and not getting caught up in comparing oneself to others. Aaron shares that the most important thing he did to finally achieve his goal was to have an unshakable belief in himself and refuse to doubt his abilities. He also highlights the significance of having a supportive spouse and crew who understand the challenges of ultra running. Aaron advises new runners to focus on being true to themselves, embracing the clock, and learning from the lessons the race has to offer. In this final part of the conversation, Aaron discusses his future plans and bucket list races. He also talks about his strength training routine, average mileage per week, and favorite hydration methods. The hosts share their experiences as race directors and the importance of volunteering in the ultra running community.

  • Greg Armstrong, a talented ultra runner and founder of Run4Water, shares his journey into running and his experiences in various races. He recounts memorable moments, such as running Volstate 500k where he was mistaken as a homeless person and the Arkansas Traveler 100 where he had a challenging finish. Greg also talks about his transition to longer events and the importance of mental toughness in ultra running. He discusses a big event coming up for his non-profit organization Run4Water and his pursuit of making the US 24-hour ultra team. Greg Armstrong shares his favorite 24-hour race, the 2018 Desert Solstice, where he competed to make the U.S. team. He describes the competitive nature of track races and the experience of being lapped by faster runners. He recounts a race against Nick Curry where he pushed himself to run a 155.1-mile PR. Greg also discusses his work with Run4Water, a project that aims to provide clean water solutions in areas affected by the water crisis. Greg Armstrong discusses his hope to partner with the Park Service to provide water solutions for porters in Tanzania. He also shares plans to organize an event in May where elite ultra runners will summit the mountain with a group of porters and then participate in a race. The event is a celebration and also a chance to help raise money for a large upcoming project. Greg emphasizes the incredible endurance and resilience of people around the world who face water scarcity and the need for clean water. He talks about his daughter's organization, 84 Days, which provides feminine hygiene products and self-defense training to girls in Uganda. Greg also mentions his upcoming projects in Mexico and Guatemala.

    To DONATE please visit: www.run4water.net

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Greg Armstrong's Running Achievements

    04:19 Greg's Running Journey and the Appeal of Ultra Running

    09:46 Greg's Memorable Ultra Running Stories

    16:47 The Growth of Run for Water and Greg's Nonprofit Initiative

    25:35 Greg's Pursuit of Making the US 24-hour Ultra Team

    30:55 The Thrill of Track Races and the 2018 Desert Solstice

    32:18 Competing Against Elite Runners and Pushing Personal Limits

    37:26 The Evolution of the 24-Hour Race and Increasing Competitiveness

    44:25 Run for Water: Addressing the Global Water Crisis

    01:04:10 Water Solutions for Porters in Tanzania

    01:05:09 Elite Ultra Runners Summit Mount Kilimanjaro with Porters

    01:06:07 Highlighting Porters' Work and Water Needs

    01:12:39 Fundraising for Run for Water

    01:13:59 Sustainable Options for a Poor Community in Mexico

    01:15:27 Creating an Event in Mexico to Support the Monarch Butterflies

    01:17:47 Empowering Girls in Uganda with 84 Days

    01:19:38 Greg's Minimalist Approach to Nutrition

  • Join Kaylee Frederick, a young and fearless ultra runner, as she shares her incredible journey to becoming a top competitor in the world of endurance racing. From her first 100-miler at 16 to battling the extreme heat of Badwater 135, to winning Badwater Cape Fear in 2024 Kaylee's story is fun and inspiring. You can hear the joy she has for the sport and her determination to be competitive and continue to push boundaries. Learn about the mental and physical challenges she's faced, the lessons she's learned, and the incredible rewards that come with pushing your limits. Discover how Kaylee balances her training with her teenage life, the support she receives from the ultra running community, and her ambitious goals for the future.