Best Coach Aaron Saft Podcasts (2025)

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Triple Corwn of 200s w/ Dr Ben Gans, More Metrics in Your Training & An Interview with Ambrin Saft on Her Cross Country Season - Episode 271 1:57:19

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2h ago1:57:19

1:57:19

Another big episode with lots of show notes! We start with my interview of Dr Ben Gans and his amazing journey through the Triple Crown of 200s (Tahoe 200, Bigfoot 200, & Moab 240). We go deep into the challenges he faced in this series of races. I loved this conversation! Then I dive deeper in to the metrics of running and how they can affect your…

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Ellis Pace & The Moab 240 PLUS Metrics of Running - Episode 270 2:05:09

6d ago2:05:09

2:05:09

My goodness what an episode! Ellis and I dive deep into his training, prep, equipment, and all things Moab 240 and his race. What a conversation! I also dive into training metrics (heart rate, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), & pace). It's another long episode! Enjoy! Ellis referred to his Fenix Headlamp. I believe this was the one - https://www…

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Mike Reardon Cocodona 250 #2, Wonderland Trail, & Mammoth 200 - Episode 269 1:30:21

14d ago1:30:21

1:30:21

This is the 2nd time Mike has been on the podcast. Check out his 1st podcast with me here - https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-69qr9-161c0c4 I enjoyed talking to Mike about what makes him tick and how he got through the Mammoth 200 without crew or pacers. I always enjoy talking to Mike. He is humble and well spoken. I hope you enjoy this conversation a…

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Rachel Blinn's Tor des Geant 2025 & Anaerobic Workouts in Your Long Run? Episode 268 1:36:49

21d ago1:36:49

1:36:49

In this episode, I chat with Rachel Blinn about her 2nd finish in 2 years at the Tor des Geants! We do a deep dive into the race and how she went about getting to the finish line! I also answer another cross country coach's question about doing anaerobic work in a long run. Enjoy! Active warmup - https://youtu.be/hgBB9de1Hdk Aaron's information: My…

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Personal Growth Part 2 - Episode 267 29:15

1M ago29:15

29:15

Continuing with #'s 14-21 from the article - https://www.inc.com/peter-economy/21-super-effective-habits-of-highly-successful-people/91101433 Ernest Hemingway once wrote: "The hardest lesson I have had to learn as an adult is the relentless need to keep going, no matter how broken I feel inside. This truth is raw, unfiltered, and painfully universa…

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Let's Talk About Personal Growth - Episode 266 52:23

1M ago52:23

52:23

This episode is based off an article that can be found here - https://www.inc.com/peter-economy/21-super-effective-habits-of-highly-successful-people/91101433 Training for the Uphill Athlete is the book I referred to. Authors Steve House, Scott Johnston, & Kilian Jornet. https://uphillathlete.com/product/training-for-the-uphill-athlete-book/ Misogi…

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Tor de Geants - An Auditory Report - Episode 265 1:05:50

1M ago1:05:50

1:05:50

I always like to take a song and mix in my own lyrics. To summarize Tor I'd use the song "Where It's At" by Beck. Where it's at! I got 2 broke ribs and a scapula. In all seriousness, it was amazing, and here is my account... Aaron's information: My Socials, Channels, & Newsletter: https://www.facebook.com/MRRUNNINGPAINSCOACHING https://www.instagra…

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My Gear Choices for the Tor de Geants 330k - Episode 264 48:19

2M ago48:19

48:19

In this episode, I discuss my gear choices for the Tor de Geants 330k. I have listed all items below with their respective websites for you. I'll post track info on my social channels and Strava in the coming week ahead. I'll be taking a 2 week break form the podcast while in Italy. Once I return, I'll give a full race recap. Thank you for your con…

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My Training for the Tor de Geants 330k - Episode 263 35:34

2M ago35:34

35:34

In this episode I pay tribute to the life of my friend Victor Mariano and talk through my training for the Tor de Geants 330k. Enjoy! Aaron's information: My Socials, Channels, & Newsletter: https://www.facebook.com/MRRUNNINGPAINSCOACHING https://www.instagram.com/runningislifecoaching/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ6J512qA34z_N0KJSU4jfw https…

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Interviewing My Son On His NCAA Recruiting Process - Episode 262 56:49

3M ago56:49

56:49

In this Episode, I interview Keagan Saft on his senior season and recruitment process just hours before dropping him off at the University of Portland to begin his Freshman year. Enjoy! Aaron's information: My Socials, Channels, & Newsletter: https://www.facebook.com/MRRUNNINGPAINSCOACHING https://www.instagram.com/runningislifecoaching/ https://ww…

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Double Art Loeb Adventure Run - Episode 261 56:06

3M ago56:06

56:06

Here is my latest adventure...The Art Loeb Out-n-Back run. Enjoy the episode! The Art Loeb Trail Route - https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/north-carolina/art-loeb-trail--2 Rab Phantom Raincoat - https://rab.equipment/us/mens-phantom-waterproof-jacket?srsltid=AfmBOoquXxrCehdVKIVRaGs5PTeFawcbJMQjQuJoeUP_minYcnAO3qh8 Book - Comfort Crisis by Michael …

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Summer Training Reminders & Is zone 2 Training A Waste of Time - Episode 260 1:06:13

3M ago1:06:13

1:06:13

Hi everyone! Thanks to your questions & comments, there is a lot in this episode! So many topics and things to discuss. From summer training reminders, to the new discussion on the merit of zone 2 training, to talk about Tor de Geants and gear reviews. I hope you learn something and enjoy! Resources: 1. My episode on HRV - https://runningislifepodc…

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Western States 2025 Recap & Moving Forward - Episode 259 44:18

4M ago44:18

44:18

Hi everyone! I missed this! It feels liberating to record again; even if it's on a tough subject. In this episode, I discuss my build and race at Western States. As always, it's emotional, so forgive me for being open and honest! I look forward to sharing again. If you have anything you want to hear about, please, let me know! Enjoy! Aaron's inform…

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For Now...Farewell 7:15

10M ago7:15

7:15

I am going to step away from podcasting. Is it permanent? I don’t know for sure. I continue to want to share things I learn and give back to the community that has given me so much. I will continue to do so through my coaching. Both High School and adults. I’m always here if you need me! Thank you for being a part of this journey! Running is Life! …

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Creating a Deep Connection with your Running Music Playlist - Episode 257 37:16

10M ago37:16

37:16

What does your music playlist do for you? Does it move you, motivate you, calm you? It should do all of these and more. This episode dives into my thoughts behind a powerful music playlist. Resources: Book - "States The Places We Run" eBook - https://historyexp.org/states-the-places-we-run-ebook/ Video - Seven Nation Army / Rockin'1000 That's Live …

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Review of the Book "The Norwegian Method" by Brad Culp 35:40

10M ago35:40

35:40

What a great book. "The Norwegian Method" by Brad Culp is not an instruction manual. It does not having training plans. It describes how the Norwegian's are using science to better their training. To understand the principles of what they are doing to make them such great athletes. In this episode, I will discuss some of my takeaways. Resources: St…

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Is there a right way to train? Episode 255 39:36

10M ago39:36

39:36

Can you do workouts? Can you run lots of miles? Should you do either? We'll discuss in this episode. Books I refer to: The Norwegian Method by Brad Culp Training Lactate Pulse-Rate by Peter G.J.M. Janssen Scientific Training for Endurance Athletes by Philip Friere Skiba DO, PHD States - The Places We Run by Bob Crowley, Hal Hall, & Tim Twietmeyer T…

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Are Your Peak VO2 & Lactate Threshold Intervals Long Enough? Episode 254 30:20

11M ago30:20

30:20

I've learned a lot this year, and from reading and observation, there's one thing I'd like to share and that's making sure your workout intervals are long enough to provide the stimulus to help your fitness. Have a listen to hear more... Resources: 1. Alex Hutchison article on VO2 max Testing - When VO2 Max isn't max - https://sweatscience.com/when…

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Gear that has me excited for 2025 - Episode 253 28:20

11M ago28:20

28:20

Here are the things that have me excited to try/use in 2025: FlipBelt & Light - https://flipbelt.com/products/running-light Petzl Swift RL reactive lighting (update) - https://www.petzl.com/US/en/Sport/Headlamps/SWIFT-RL Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra Trail - https://www.adidas.com/us/terrex-agravic-speed-ultra-trail-running-shoes/IF6594.html Ra…

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I got into Western States!!! Episode 252 51:13

11M ago51:13

51:13

With 2 tickets in the lottery, I was shocked to hav my name pulled to race Western States in June of 2025. But a plan is beginning to formulate. This episode describes the outline. Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patreon or to donate, please visit https://www.patreon.com/RunningIsLife My Socials, Channels, & Newsletter: https…

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Coaching Philosophy, My way, & What's Important to me in Coaching - Episode 251 35:59

11M ago35:59

35:59

In this episode, I reflect on my coaching philosophy and how I coach. Is my philosophy still in line with my values & principles? How have I changed my coaching? And how do I hope to move forward. Here are my written thoughts - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_DRGhm_JSC4KYShIp2JDBe02JCQkeOR3lWa_j2_U4FU/edit?usp=sharing Here is the Year End Eval…

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Overview, Description, & Analysis of the West Henderson High School Cross Country Season - Episode 250 1:01:19

12M ago1:01:19

1:01:19

In this episode, I go through my long term plan, execution, & analysis of the the 2024 West Henderson High School Cross Country Season. Here is a link to the YouTube video I reference - https://youtu.be/_PIQixt0cng Here is the link to the overview sheet I reference throughout the video - https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1_WaDbbiqxcUiJDYTOsoZr…

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Lessons Learned on Super Shoes, Nutrition, Poles, & Holiday Reminders - Episode 249 38:44

12M ago38:44

38:44

In this episode, I share things I've learned about Super Shoes, Nutrition, Poles, & I share some reminders about the upcoming Holidays. Resources: Single Track Podcast - The State Of Ultrarunning Nutrition with Vic Johnson (Part 1) - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-state-of-ultrarunning-nutrition-with-vic-johnson-part-1/id1572382413?i=100…

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Creating the Long Term Plan with Coach Ryne Anderson - Episode 248 1:02:35

12M ago1:02:35

1:02:35

Ryne Anderson is my coach. We discuss how to form a long term plan by examining my 2025 running schedule. There's a lot more to this conversation, so I hope you gain many takeaways. Please let either of us know if you have any questions. Our contact information is below. Long Term Plan doc - https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Be6-2wKtPci8oz9Gl…

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Lessons Learned from David Roche's Recent Performances - Episode 247 39:03

1y ago39:03

39:03

Recently David Roche had amazing results at Leadville 100 & Javelina 100-mile races! This episode focuses on lessons we can apply to our own running from David's historical runs. Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patreon or to donate, please visit https://www.patreon.com/RunningIsLife My Socials, Channels, & Newsletter: https:/…

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12 Lessons from Ted Lasso We Can Apply to Running & Life - Episode 246 35:59

1y ago35:59

35:59

After reading the following article - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/12-ted-lasso-leadership-lessons-transform-your-marcin-klinkosz/ - I'd thought I would share how we can apply these 12 lessons to our running & lives! Enjoy! Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patreon or to donate, please visit https://www.patreon.com/RunningIsL…

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Things we don’t want to change too rapidly and without proper supervision/understanding - Episode 245 35:34

1y ago35:34

35:34

Things we don’t want to change too rapidly and without proper supervision/understanding: Form Foot strike Drills Strength training Cadence Footwear Big changes in training patterns # of days Volume Vert Workouts Race distance Dietary habits Supplements I hope you enjoy this episode. Please let me know if you have any suggestions for future episodes…

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Not Making the Fitness Gains You Want? - Episode 244 33:55

1y ago33:55

33:55

If you're not gaining in fitness, I examine some things to look for in this episode. Resources: Fitness Absorption vs Expression Podcast https://runningislifepodcast.podbean.com/?s=fitness HRV Podcast https://runningislifepodcast.podbean.com/e/should-we-use-hrv-as-a-predictor-episode-239/ Old Fort Strong Endurance Event - https://www.tanawhaadventu…

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When your not sure if you should do your goal event or not - Episode 243 35:49

1y ago35:49

35:49

What happens when the Universe conspires against your best laid plans to complete your goal race or event? That's what I'll get into in this episode. Resources: Book - "Puke & Rally" by Dr Rob Bell Podcast - KoopCast -Thoughts on DNF with Coaches AJW and Neal Palles #235 https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/thoughts-on-dnf-with-coaches-ajw-and-nea…

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Helene Update from Western North Carolina - Episode 242 22:38

1y ago22:38

22:38

Still here & ok! Thank you all for checking in on me! I hope everyone and their loved ones is safe! Reach out if you need anything! Love to all! -Aaron Saft Resources - Wahoo Trackr - https://www.wahoofitness.com/devices/heart-rate-monitors/trackr-heart-rate-buy Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patreon or to donate, please vis…

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Travis Macy & I Discuss Running & Coaching 1:12:37

1y ago1:12:37

1:12:37

Travis Macy & I finally coordinated and recorded the following podcast on running & coaching. I thoroughly enjoyed this conversation, & I hope you do as well! Learn more about Travis, his podcast, and his books at his website - www.travismacy.com Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patreon or to donate, please visit https://www.p…

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Mental Training Skills - Episode 240 35:11

1y ago35:11

35:11

Mental skills are so important to train to assist us in our races, but often times we leave it out. Included in this episode are some things you can work on to help you in your daily runs/life. My notes: Mentally preparing for a race Goals A B C Write them down and share them. Revisit them from time to time. Realistic? Extrinsic & Intrinsic Why’s T…

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Should we use HRV as a predictor? Episode 239 41:20

1y ago41:20

41:20

I had a great discussion with the athlete's I coach about using HRV as a predictor for recovery, and that is what spurred this Episode. That original discussion was inspired by the following podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trainingpeaks-coachcast/id1435395422?i=1000664573776 with Marco Altini https://www.marcoaltini.com/ and the follo…

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To Build A Trail - Episode 238 45:56

1y ago45:56

45:56

So we built "Saft's Trail". A lot went into this trail, and here's how we did it. Thanks to the Carolina Mountain Club - https://carolinamountainclub.org/ - for all their help! Thanks to Rugby Middle School for allowing us to build this. Thanks to both the Rugby and West Henderson athletes and parents for their work hours. We did it! Now come enjoy…

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Types of Coaches & The Coach I Hope to Become - Episode 237 43:02

1y ago43:02

43:02

There are many different types of coaches out there. Here I describe all sides of each type. The good and the bad. Then I talk about qualities I try to use as a coach myself. If you'd like to speak with me about coaching, please reach out! Truly Tough XC Classic 5K - Sept. 28 - complete details & registration here - https://ultrasignup.com/register…

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How Are you After a Poor Race or DNF? Let's Talk! Episode 236 51:48

1y ago51:48

51:48

Racing is hard enough. After a poor performance or DNF, it makes the next race even tougher to mentally and physically prepare for. Here are my thoughts for moving forward! Podcast on Analyzing your race/event: https://runningislifepodcast.podbean.com/e/so-you-had-a-bad-race-here-s-the-next-steps-w-personal-notes-episode-95/ Books: "Puke & Rally" b…

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Lots to Share - Episode 235 42:40

1y ago42:40

42:40

Stream of consciousness (Outline of the episode): House Keeping Truly Tough XC Classic info - https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=118288 Tsali Frosty Foot - https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Almond/TsaliUltra Podcast with Travis update - His Book "Ultra Mindset" I appreciate the road shoe suggestions - haven’t had a chance to try any on COROS arm…

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Justin Walker's Hardrock 100 - Episode 234 1:35:15

1+ y ago1:35:15

1:35:15

Justin Walker was one of the lucky "Never Runs" to be selected in the Hardrock 100 Lottery to run in 2024. This is his story. Connect with Justin on Strava as Justin Walker or on Instagram @runjwalkrun Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patreon or to donate, please visit https://www.patreon.com/RunningIsLife My Socials, Channels…

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Julie Jordan's Vol State 500k Story (Amazing!) - Episode 233 1:42:53

1+ y ago1:42:53

1:42:53

Julie Jordan is already an amazing person! Then she goes and finishes the Vol State 500k, and what a story she has from the event! Buckle up! This is AWESOME! Connect with Julie on Facebook @Julia Jordan & on Instagram @AndIMustGo55 Tsali Ultra (50k, 30k, & 8k) will take place Jan. 18, 2025 at Fontana Lake. No longer under my direction, but I'm gla…

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High Lonesome 100 Finish Recap - Episode 232 1:15:28

1+ y ago1:15:28

1:15:28

Here it is, my emotional recap of the High Lonesome 100 finish! Resources - Running is Life Podcast - High Lonesome 100 Plan (Episode 231) - https://runningislifepodcast.podbean.com/e/high-lonesome-100-mile-plan-episode-231/ High Lonesome 100 Website - https://www.highlonesome100.com/ Weird Al "Foil" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=urglg3WimHA Aa…

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High Lonesome 100-mile Plan - Episode 231 40:49

1+ y ago40:49

40:49

In this episode I talk through all my plans for the High Lonesome 100 that starts on Friday, July 19th. Resources: Outdoor Research Swift Bucket Cap - https://www.outdoorresearch.com/products/swift-bucket-hat-300965?variant=47342817476929 Outdoor Research Hooded Echo Sun Shirt - https://www.outdoorresearch.com/collections/sun-protection/products/me…

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Self Confidence with My Daughter, Ambrin Saft - Episode 230 35:22

1+ y ago35:22

35:22

My daughter and I discuss her outdoor track season and what happened at the Adidas Nationals Meet. Much of her performance was affected by factors outside her control which affected her self confidence. In this episode we discuss what she and you can do moving forward to improve self confidence and not let factors you cannot control hamper your rac…

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Tony McDermott's Tahoe 200 Recount - Episode 229 1:09:05

1+ y ago1:09:05

1:09:05

In this episode of the Running His Life podcast, Coach Aaron Saft shares the incredible journey of Tony McDermott, one of his athletes who recently completed the grueling Tahoe 200. Recorded from the scenic backdrop of Gunnison, Colorado, Aaron reflects on his own preparations for the High Lonesome 100 while celebrating Tony's monumental achievemen…

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Overcoming Race Day Anxiety and Effective Training Strategies - Episode 228 36:30

1+ y ago36:30

36:30

Welcome to the Running Life podcast with Coach Aaron Saft! In today's episode, Coach Aaron delves into a mix of topics, sharing insights from his athletes' experiences and his own training journey. He addresses the common pitfall of over-focusing on specific race segments, using examples from races like Leadville and Western States. Aaron emphasize…

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Zach Dean finishes The BRUTES Challenge & Hellbender 100. Up next Bigfoot 200! - Episode 227 1:23:57

1+ y ago1:23:57

1:23:57

I start this episode with a bit about rotating your running shoes as I had a listener question about the topic (thank you Ron). The main focus of the episode is my conversation with Zach Dean. He has done a lot of ultras in very little time. We'll hear about some of them, but mainly we discuss his finishing of the BRUTES Challenge & the Hellbender …

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Things to do Before You Sign Up for A Race - Episode 226 24:13

1+ y ago24:13

24:13

Before you sign up for an event, please take these things into consideration: Time to train Commitments Family obligations Level of guilt Vacation time Time off work Time for ancillary training (strength & mobility work) Healthy enough to do it Prior injury history & plan to stave off repeating injury Assessing your goals to be realistic with time …

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Chas Adams Pennsylvania Triple Crown of Ultra & World's End 100k - Episode 225 1:09:49

1+ y ago1:09:49

1:09:49

Chas Adams is came to me in Dec. of 2023 with the goal of completing the Pennsylvania Triple Crown of Ultras (Hyner 50k, World's End 100k, & Eastern States 100-miler). He is two-thirds of the way there having just completed World's End 100k. This episode is about his journey and frankly his struggle to complete World's End having run the race in 20…

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Variables to Consider for your Next Event (I'll use High Lonesome 100 as an Example) - Episode 224 34:27

1+ y ago34:27

34:27

There are so many variables to consider with in a race such as running surface, terrain, elevation change, distance, altitude, temperature, etc. Hydration and nutrition are huge concerns based on these variables. We have a lot to talk about, including the fact that Spring Awesome Sauce, one of my go to's, does not have anywhere near the amount of c…

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Cocodona 250 w/ 2 of my Athletes - Ben Gans & Mike Reardon - Episode 223 2:24:01

1+ y ago2:24:01

2:24:01

I had 2 athletes complete the 2024 Cocodona 250. This episode is my conversation with each of those runners. Ben Gans - @dr_bentendo on Instagram Mike Reardon - @get_some_trail on Instagram Resources: Books: Jason Koop's Training Essentials for Ultrarunning - Heat Training Protocols Fixing Your Feet: Injury Prevention and Treatment for Athletes by …

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Hellbender 100-Miler Recap & My Applicant Essay for Badwater 135 - Episode 222 37:24

1+ y ago37:24

37:24

Hellbender 100 didn't go as planned. This episode goes into why. I also discuss my essay for my application for Badwater 135 (actual letter is below). Here's my Post from Facebook after Hellbender: I’ve learned something over the 3 decades I’ve been running. When we line up for a race, no matter how much we’ve trained and prepared, the race and lif…