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Choose to Endure

Richard Gleave

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Welcome to the "Choose to Endure" podcast, the go-to show for back of the pack ultra runners. Join us as we explore uplifting stories, interviews, gear and training tips, all tailored towards the unsung heroes at the back end of the ultra universe.
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When will the world create an artificial intelligence that matches human level capabilities, better known as an artificial general intelligence (AGI)? What will that world look like & how can we ensure it's positive & beneficial for humanity as a whole? Tech entrepreneur & software engineer Soroush Pour (@soroushjp) sits down with AI experts to discuss AGI timelines, pathways, implications, opportunities & risks as we enter this pivotal new era for our planet and species. Hosted by Soroush P ...
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The ultra running world is evolving rapidly. At major races like Western States, Cocodona, and Moab, we're witnessing the rise of elaborate crew villages, multiple pacers working in shifts, and support systems that rival military operations. This transformation prompts a critical question: are we creating two distinct versions of our beloved sport?…
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Hey everyone! As you’re hearing this, I’m currently out on the trails attempting to complete the Cocodona 250 — a 250-mile journey across Arizona from Black Canyon City to Flagstaff. Bib #184 if you want to follow/cheer along!! Since I couldn’t record a fresh episode this week (for obvious reasons!), I’m bringing back one of my favorite conversatio…
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Discover why finishing last might be the greatest victory in ultrarunning. The Golden Hour—that final stretch before race cutoff—represents a magical convergence of determination, community support, and raw emotion that captures the true essence of our sport. What does it really mean to be a DFL (Dead Freaking Last) finisher? Far from failure, cros…
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Raw, gritty, transformative—these words describe not just ultramarathons themselves, but the powerful act of pacing another runner through their darkest moments. While crossing finish lines gets the glory, it's the unseen heroes running alongside exhausted athletes who often make those finishes possible. For aspiring pacers, preparation is everythi…
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Stuart Secker's return to the Choose to Endure podcast brings a remarkable story of resilience that transcends the typical ultrarunning narrative. Just eight months ago, Stuart received a prostate cancer diagnosis that would change everything. Four months ago, he underwent surgery to remove his prostate. And incredibly, just ten weeks after resumin…
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When Glenn McRill toed the starting line at Grasslands 100, he carried years of experience as a marathon runner and Director of Coaching for the San Antonio RoadRunners—but faced the daunting reality of attempting his first 100-mile race with less-than-ideal training. The journey that followed became a masterclass in perseverance, problem-solving, …
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Every finish line crossed, every aid station that saved your race, every perfectly marked trail section - none of it happens without volunteers. But what does volunteering at an ultra actually entail, and why should you consider giving your time? Richard Gleave dives deep into the rewarding world of ultra running volunteerism, exploring how this of…
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Recovery often becomes the forgotten pillar of ultra running performance, especially for those of us who occupy the back of the pack. After crossing the finish line of my latest 220-mile ultra adventure, I've been closely monitoring my Heart Rate Variability (HRV) to guide my recovery journey – and the insights have been too valuable not to share. …
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What does it take to conquer 220 miles of beach, trail, and road when your body is actively fighting against you? David Solomon knows the answer all too well. Living with fascioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) hasn't stopped him from pursuing ultra endurance challenges that would break many other runners. David's journey through the recent …
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What makes the difference between surviving and thriving during a 200-mile ultra journey? For five back-of-the-pack runners at the 2025 Swammie Shuffle 200, the answer emerged organically when they formed what they affectionately dubbed "the Party Pack." This episode pulls back the curtain on an unforgettable adventure along North Carolina's Outer …
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Ever found yourself lost in the darkness during an ultra run, questioning why you ever started this crazy journey? Let me take you on a personal adventure through the moonlit trails where perspectives shift, and challenges morph into serene experiences. Discover how the tranquility of running under a starlit sky can transform a daunting obstacle in…
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What if the true magic of ultra running isn't crossing the finish line first, but the friendships formed along the way? Join me, Richard Gleave, as I share the heartwarming tales and connections that flourish at the back of the pack. While the front runners might chase the clock, we savor each grueling mile, the camaraderie, and the shared struggle…
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Ever made the rookie mistake of racing someone else’s race instead of your own? I did during my first 50k ultra, and it taught me an invaluable lesson about the power of pacing. In this episode of the Choose to Endure, dive into the heart of what it means to truly embrace your own pace. We'll unpack strategies that help you remain focused on your u…
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What if training for a mountainous ultra race while living in a flat city isn't just possible, but actually an opportunity to get creative and resilient? Join me, Richard Gleave, as I share my personal journey of preparing for a 15,000-foot vert race from the pancake-flat landscapes of Houston, TX. I promise you'll learn how to transform your tread…
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Have you ever wondered how your choice of accommodation can make or break your race weekend experience? Join me, Richard Gleave, as I share my personal adventures navigating the world of ultra running on a budget. From the camaraderie of camping near the race venue to the plush comforts of distant hotels, each option offers unique advantages and ch…
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Ever found yourself at the back of the pack, wondering how to make your ultra running experience smooth and successful? You're not alone, and on this episode of Choose to Endure, you'll discover how to transform your drop bags into essential race tools that cater specifically to your needs. Join me, Richard Gleave, as I share personal stories and p…
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Ever found yourself caught in the adrenaline rush at the start line, only to hit a wall miles before the finish? That's a lesson I learned the hard way at the Lighthouse Hill 50k, when my excitement led to an early burnout. Join me, Richard Gleave, as I dig into the art of pacing in this episode of Choose to Endure. Reflecting on my own journey as …
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*Note: Hopefully it’s not too bad, but apologies for my last 10 minutes’ sound quality, I had a technical problem with the mic, but still wanted to keep the audio and chat going! In this episode of Choose to Endure, we spotlight the incredible Joni Watkins, a trailblazing ultra-runner from the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. Her story is one of tra…
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Imagine embarking on an ultra marathon where the finish line is not just a destination but a self-navigated and supported journey through breathtaking landscapes, and camaraderie trumps competition. Join me, Richard Gleave, as I unravel the allure of journey races—those epic point-to-point adventures that redefine traditional racing. On this episod…
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Unlock the secrets to transforming your ultra running journey. Join me, Richard Gleave, as I share my experiences running ultras since 2017 and discuss the potential impact of having a coach, especially for those navigating new distances or feeling lost in the balance of training and recovery. With stories and practical advice, we'll explore whethe…
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Passionate ultra-runners Kelli Means and Jeremy Nicolosi transition from the thrill of the run to the excitement of race directing in our latest episode. Discover how late-night brainstorming with the Cardio Bullies team over bourbon sparked a journey into creating Beast Trail Racing. Kelli and Jeremy are on a mission to craft all-inclusive and cha…
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Unlock the secrets of balancing a thriving ultra-running career with the demands of everyday life. Join me, Richard Gleave, as I reveal 4 essential tips and strategies designed for non-elite runners who are determined to conquer ultramarathons without sacrificing family or work commitments. Discover how the 80-20 rule can transform your training re…
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Rediscover the heart and soul of ultra running with me, Richard Gleave, as I kick off our renewed journey on the Choose to Endure Ultra Running Podcast. Fresh from a rejuvenating sabbatical, I’m excited to share my experiences from the Père Malfé 50k race in North Louisiana—a thrilling adventure that marked my return to racing and the debut of my t…
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Join us for an inspiring conversation with William "Iron Will" Sprouse, who shares his incredible journey from weighing over 300 pounds to conquering ultramarathons, despite a devastating motorcycle accident and stroke. Motivated by the memory of his marathon-running father, Will defied medical prognoses, pushing past 46 broken bones to not only wa…
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What if you could strengthen your running performance while spending less time on your feet? Discover the secrets to achieving this balance with Nick Hancock, a UK athletics licensed and UESCA ultra running certified coach. Nick shares his invaluable insights and personal experiences, revealing how strength training can be a game-changer for ultra …
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Ever felt like life is running you instead of the other way around? This bonus episode is just what you need! I open up about the whirlwind that's taken over my schedule, sharing some personal updates and exciting news. No guest this week, but there's still a wealth of content to explore. Why not revisit some past episodes brimming with golden nugg…
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Unlock the secrets to preventing running injuries with Dr. Matthew Brackney, a leading chiropractic sports practitioner, on this episode of Choose to Endure. Ever wondered why your shin splints just won't go away? Dr. Brackney explains the "victim and culprit" theory, revealing how addressing root causes in your movement patterns can lead to more e…
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What if durability could mean more than just physical toughness in ultra running? In this solo episode of "Choose to Endure," come along with me as I unpack the multifaceted nature of durability, especially for those who find themselves at the back of the pack. From the importance of consistent, progressive training and recovery runs to the necessi…
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Join us for an incredible conversation with Gut Health Expert, Reiki (ray-kee) Master and Nutrition, Performance & Recovery Coach Lauren Callahan as she unveils her journey from barely being able to run a mile to becoming an ultra runner. Lauren shatters the myth that ultra runners are superhuman, emphasizing the crucial role of mental and emotiona…
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How can someone transform their life through the power of running? Meet Seth Epley, an extraordinary young ultra runner who shares his inspiring journey from battling alcohol addiction to becoming a finisher in the ultra running community. Seth opens up about his early struggles working in the oil field industry and how discovering running became h…
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What does it take to conquer a 200-mile race through the Colorado mountains? Ultra runner and Kansas Buckleheads trail group officionado Jonathan Prosser joins us to share his remarkable transformation from a half marathon first-timer to a seasoned ultra marathoner. Drawing inspiration from legendary ultra runners and backed by an incredibly suppor…
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Unlock the secrets to maximizing your endurance performance with expert insights from sports nutritionist and dietitian Gaby Villa of IntensEATfit. Discover how everyday nutrition habits can dramatically enhance your race day outcomes. Learn Gaby's simple yet powerful framework for balancing meals by categorizing foods into energetics, builders, an…
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Meet all-round trail legend MISTER Victor Ballesteros, the visionary behind Victory Sportdesign and the Tamalpa Headlands 50K. In this episode of Choose to Endure, we explore Victor's compelling journey from a childhood steeped in adventure to becoming an influential figure in the ultra running community. Discover how his father's adventurous spiri…
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Mike Horner's journey to becoming an accomplished back-of-the-pack ultra runner at the age of 50 is nothing short of inspiring. Starting his ultra running journey after a health wake-up call, Mike has transformed his life and achieved significant milestones, including running 322 miles in the Six Days in the Dome race in Milwaukee. In this episode,…
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This is a BUMPER episode packed with not 1, but 2 stories from the recent Western States 100 event!! It’s a 2-FOR-1 !! Grab a coffee, sit down and get comfortable - it’s gonna be a while. Join us as we welcome WS Golden Hour’s Golden Boy a.k.a. “Red Shorts Guy” & “The Leaner” Chris Culpepper, who finally got his chance to run this prestigious race …
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Can optimizing your sleep be the ultimate game-changer for endurance athletes? Join us on this insightful episode of Choose to Endure as we explore the profound impact of sleep on ultra-runners with Amanda Chocko, a renowned sleep coach and author of "Relax Sleep Thrive: Your Five-Week Journey to Peaceful, Restorative Sleep." Amanda illuminates the…
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In our latest episode of Choose to Endure, we sit down with ultramarathon runner Jeff Colgrove, who shares his transformative journey from high school runner to ultra-endurance athlete. Jeff recounts how his quest to shed pounds led to a passion for running that evolved from half marathons to tackling the grueling world of ultramarathons. Jeff's st…
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What turns a reluctant runner into an elite athlete representing the USA? Join us for a compelling episode as we sit down with Megan Eckert, an accomplished ultra runner whose journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Megan opens up about her initial hesitation towards running and how the unwavering support from her husband and the trail running c…
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What drives someone to push their physical and mental limits in ultrarunning? Join me, Richard Gleave, as we explore this compelling question and uncover the deeply personal motivations that fuel our community. Hear from the Choose to Endure community as they share how faith and camaraderie in the trail ultra community become lifelines in overcomin…
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We speak with Stephen Casper, or "Cas" as his friends call him. Cas is a PhD student at MIT in the Computer Science (EECS) department, in the Algorithmic Alignment Group advised by Prof Dylan Hadfield-Menell. Formerly, he worked with the Harvard Kreiman Lab and the Center for Human-Compatible AI (CHAI) at Berkeley. His work focuses on better unders…
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We speak with Katja Grace. Katja is the co-founder and lead researcher at AI Impacts, a research group trying to answer key questions about the future of AI — when certain capabilities will arise, what will AI look like, how it will all go for humanity. We talk to Katja about: * How AI Impacts latest rigorous survey of leading AI researchers shows …
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Ever wondered what it takes to disrupt an industry and create the perfect running and lifestyle gear? On this episode of Choose to Endure, we bring you an exclusive conversation with CEO Scott Bailey and Co-Founder Floris Gierman, two of the driving forces behind PATH Projects apparel company. Frustrated by the lack of quality running shorts, Scott…
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What does it really take to optimize your ultra running performance without sacrificing your happiness and well-being? Join me, Richard Gleave, on Choose to Endure, as we uncover the hidden costs of relentless optimization in ultra running. From physical injuries to mental burnout and social sacrifices, this episode explores the high stakes of push…
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Embark on a journey into the Ultraverse featuring bespoke races and nutrition designed for the ultra-endurance athlete with Chase and Casey Hammond of Ultraverse Supplements. They join me, Richard Gleave, to share their inspiring tale from passionate ultra-runners to innovative supplement creators. We uncover the secrets behind their bestseller Pro…
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When Ultra Expeditions Race Director Christy Krchnavy laced up her shoes to start the Cocodona 250 mile race through the rugged Arizona landscape, she carried more than just her running gear; she embodied the indomitable spirit of a back-of-the-pack ultra runner. Her story is a testament to enduring strength, recounting her evolution from a time-st…
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Get ready to elevate your ultra-running game as your host Richard Gleave takes you through an exclusive reveal of what's in store for the second season of Choose to Endure. Kicking off on May 31st, we're venturing beyond the finish line to uncover the lesser-known facets of the sport. Picture this: you're slogging through mile 50, and you wonder, '…
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You asked, so here it is!! Embark on a short BONUS journey with me, Richard Gleave, as we explore the parallels between ultra running and life's myriad challenges. Through the lens of a perennial back-of-the-pack runner, we'll uncover the deep philosophical connections that make enduring a force for empowerment, resilience, and profound personal gr…
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Ever wondered how the body and mind recover after a grueling 100-mile ultra marathon? Kurt LaCroix and Scott Weidenbacher, ultrarunning powerhouses, join us to unravel that very mystery - sharing their contrasting post-race recovery experiences after the Red Dirt Ultra. Their insights into the Louisiana trail, from its looping course to the unpredi…
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As your ultra-endurance companion, I have weathered the storm of race cancellations alongside you, feeling the sting of lost opportunities and hard work seemingly evaporate. Together on this journey, we open the conversation on the multitude of reasons why our cherished races are sometimes halted—extreme weather, health hazards, and the tangle of p…
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Prepare to be captivated by the sheer grit and tenacity required for backyard ultras, as I guide you through the raw and transformative world of this unique race format. Imagine stepping into a competition where the end is as uncertain as the limits of your own endurance, a challenge that Gary "Lazarus Lake" Cantrell designed not just to test physi…
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