Becoming a Pro Ultra Runner Without Losing Joy

This episode isn't one that you just listen to. This is the kind of episode that you will recall during conversations with friends, months after hearing it.In Episode 43 of Beyond The Finish Line, host Joe Hardin sits down with professional ultra runner Rachel Entrekin for a grounded, honest conversation about what it really takes to grow in endurance sports without losing yourself along the way.Rachel’s journey from road marathoner to elite ultra runner wasn’t fast or flashy. It was built patiently as she went from 50Ks to 50-milers, 100s to 200s. Rachel was stacking experience, learning her body, and staying connected to the joy that keeps her showing up. Yes, she races events like Cocodona 250. And yes, she still stops mid-race to pet dogs.This episode goes beyond race results. Rachel opens up about navigating sponsorships while working full-time, transitioning into professional running, and why visibility, relationships, and storytelling matter just as much as performance. She also shares a refreshingly sustainable training approach, her evolving fueling strategy, and why under-fueling remains a major issue in endurance sports especially for women.Listen in, reflect, and remember: progress doesn’t have to cost you joy.Don't forget to subscribe, rate, review and comment on the Everyday Athlete Podcast Network.Join the Everyday Athlete ClubhouseKeep Connected:Run Tri Bike on InstagramRun Tri Bike on ThreadsJoe Hardin on InstagramRachel Entrekin on Instagram