Episode 101: Chris Slater - Running Across the Sahara 🐪

Chris Slater and I met through my friend, TJ Furman, who is not a runner but a former coworker of both of ours.In this episode, sponsored by BITCHSTIX, Pure Fuel and Previnex, we talk about his journey from being a professional football player as a kid to dealing with a severe cocaine addiction, and ultimately finding his way to sobriety through running. Highlights include: Chris's early football career; starting a nightclub promotions business in university; his struggle with cocaine addiction and road to recovery; beginning to run during COVID and completing isolated marathon challenges; participating in multiple major marathons including Brighton, London, and Manchester; achieving 52 marathons in 52 weeks in 2022; competing in the Marathon des Sables and finishing in the top 50; and his experiences with the UTMB ultra races. Chris also introduces his dog, Bobby, as part of his support system. Throughout, Ally and Chris discuss the discipline, mental strength, and training required for these remarkable achievements.00:00 Introduction to Finish Lines and Milestones00:23 Sponsorship and Upcoming Event01:45 Episode 101: New Beginnings with Video03:30 Geography Lesson and International Guests04:52 Conversation with Chris Slater Begins05:17 Chris Slater's Background and Early Life07:21 Football Career and Transition to University15:30 Nightclub Business and Descent into Addiction22:26 Struggles with Addiction and Path to Recovery29:21 Running as a New Passion33:56 Marathon Journey and Charity Work44:37 Reflecting on Personal Bests and Lap Races45:25 Major Marathons of 202345:41 Challenges of Marathon Entry and Lottery Systems46:33 Future Marathon Goals and Ultra Running47:28 Experiences from Major Marathons50:59 Marathon Des Sables: The Ultimate Challenge54:29 Training and Preparation for Ultra Marathons01:02:04 The Mental and Physical Demands of Ultra Running01:11:32 UTMB and Lessons Learned01:17:44 Future Plans and Career Balance01:20:59 Personal Life and Inspirations01:23:44 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsUK Newspaper article about ChrisTickets to Indy Mini Event on 5/2 Sponsor Details:- ⁠⁠Previnex⁠⁠ - ALLY15 for 15% off your first order- ⁠⁠BITCHSTIX⁠⁠ -ALLYB for 20% off your order-⁠⁠ Pure Fuel - FUEL20 for 20% off your order