Welcome back to another episode of Running Strong Mind-Body Connection! Today, host Karen Bonnett-Natraj sits down with Joseph Schrum—a runner whose journey is as awe-inspiring as it is relatable. From their first wild meeting at the Crown King Scramble, where Joe turned a grueling run into an even more epic solo adventure, to tackling the formidable Cocodona 250, this conversation paints an honest picture of the ultrarunning experience for the “average Joe.”

Joe candidly shares how he transformed his life at 40, overcoming obesity, alcoholism, and health struggles to become an accomplished ultrarunner who has finished over a hundred marathons and numerous 100-milers. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of resilience—sleeping in a van after getting locked in a park, surviving snow, mud, and even lost gear in races that test the mind as much as the body. This episode is a celebration of community, perseverance, and the unsung heroes of the back of the pack. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to complete a 200-mile race, or if you think the world of ultrarunning is reserved for the elites, Joe’s journey will inspire you to redefine what’s possible.

So, whether you’re training for your first big race or just looking for motivation to get out the door, tune in for a dose of humility, humor, and unshakeable determination—because this is the story of everyday runners doing extraordinary things.