Let’s Run That Again

*This Episode was recorded in October 2025. Due to life, and our long break from podcasting, this episode is just being released now and for that we are so sorry, but we are so so excited to finally share Annie's story! Join us as Annie Hawthorne shares her inspiring journey from road running to ultra trail running, overcoming challenges like injuries and DNFs, and her plans for upcoming self-supported races. Discover insights on mental resilience, fueling strategies, and the power of community in ultrarunning.

Summary In this engaging conversation, Heidi and Michelle reconnect after a break, discussing the importance of self-care, authenticity, and the evolving nature of their identities as runners. They explore the impact of social media on self-worth and belonging, share lessons learned from races, and emphasize the value of community support. The discussion highlights the rejection of rigid labels, the complexity of life, and the significance of celebrating small wins. As they look ahead to new adventures and goals, they reaffirm their commitment to personal growth and the journey of self-acceptance.  

Summary In this episode, Heidi and Michelle reconnect and reflect on their running journeys, discussing the importance of mindset, community, and acceptance. They explore the challenges and changes they face in their running lives, emphasizing the duality of emotions and the significance of mental health. The conversation highlights the value of therapy and connection, as well as the journey of self-discovery through running. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to embrace the present moment and be kind to themselves as they navigate their own paths.  

In this episode, Heidi and Michelle chat with Derek Sprau, an accomplished ultra runner who shares his journey into the world of ultra running, the mental challenges faced during races, and the importance of community support. Derek discusses his experiences at the Kettle Moraine race, the emotional rollercoaster of leaving a friend behind during a race, and his upcoming adventure at the Bigfoot 200. The conversation highlights the accessibility of ultra running and the personal growth that comes from pushing one's limits.   Follow Derek on Instagram: @turntailandtrail     If you enjoy the show, and want to support us financially, we are so grateful to have your support, and you can do so here: ⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/letsrunthag

Summary In this engaging conversation, Katie shares her journey into the world of ultra running, highlighting her recent races, the supportive community in Florida, and the joy she finds in the sport. She discusses her experiences with FOMO in race registrations, the transformation running has brought to her life, and the importance of the race environment. Katie reflects on her first mountain race, the lessons learned from DNF experiences, and the healing power of nature. The conversation emphasizes the joy of running, the sense of community, and the balance between challenge and enjoyment in the sport.  

  In this episode, Heidi and Michelle welcome Ben Whitehead, who shares his profound running journey, marked by personal loss and the transition from marathons to ultra marathons. Ben discusses the impact of elevation on his running, the emotional connection he feels during races, and the importance of community support, especially after experiencing a DNF. He emphasizes the healing power of helping others and the significance of finding purpose in running. The conversation also touches on upcoming races and the joy of being part of the ultra running community.   Follow Ben on Instagram: @benjamincolorado   Also please check out the Every Day Athlete Clubhouse and join us!! ⁠https://runtrimag.com/product/the-everyday-athlete-clubhouse/⁠   If you enjoy the show, and want to support us financially, we are so grateful to have your support, and you can do so here: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/letsrunthag⁠

In this episode, Anna Epifano shares her inspiring journey into ultra running, highlighting the influence of her son Steve and the importance of family support. The conversation explores the challenges and joys of training for the Blackbeard's Revenge race, the mental aspects of running, and the beauty of nature experienced during runs. Anna reflects on the deeper meaning of ultra running, the community it fosters, and the personal growth that comes from embracing challenges. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of mindfulness and finding joy in the journey of running.   Enjoying the podcast? Support us by liking, reviewing, sharing and subscribing! If you would like to support us financially, you can do so here: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/letsrunthag⁠

Rachel Bambrick, founder of Women in Ultrarunning, joins to chat about her recent DNF at the High Lonesome 100. The discussion dives into ways races can throw unexpected and new challenges, how fueling and mental strength play into our decision making. The discussion also touches on the duality of emotions that accompany a DNF. How disappointment and pride can co-exist and there is no right way to feel. Rachel also gives a background on Women and Ultrarunning and how they are impacting ultrarunning for women currently!   Follow Rachel on Instagram: @rachel_lynn07 @womeninultrarunning ⁠https://www.womeninultrarunning.com/about-us ⁠

In this episode, Miles Victors shares his incredible journey from being 450 pounds to becoming an ultra runner. He discusses the pivotal moments that led to his transformation, the challenges he faced during ultra marathons, and the lessons learned from his experiences, including the importance of managing pain, heat, and hydration. Miles also emphasizes the value of self-worth and the concept of 'failing forward' in the face of setbacks. His unique approach to running in sandals and the strategies he employs to navigate the trails provide valuable insights for both new and experienced runners. In this conversation, Miles Victors shares his experiences with trail running, particularly focusing on the challenges faced during the Devil's Gulch race. He discusses the importance of footwear choices, mental resilience, and the supportive community within the ultra running world. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of celebrating small victories, embracing failures as learning opportunities, and maintaining a positive outlook amidst challenges. Miles reflects on his personal growth through running and the connections formed with fellow runners, highlighting the shared empathy and camaraderie in the sport.   Follow Miles on Instagram: @milesvictors

Summary In this episode, Michelle and Heidi chat with Jill Albrecht about her journey in ultra running, particularly her experiences with the Cocodona race. Jill shares her background, including her sobriety journey and how it led her to discover ultra running. The conversation delves into the community spirit of Cocodona, her fundraising efforts for mental health resources, and the challenges she faced during the 2024 race, including severe weather conditions and injuries. Jill reflects on her decision to DNF and the lessons learned from the experience, emphasizing the importance of self-care and resilience in the face of adversity. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the multifaceted challenges of ultra running, including the physical and mental hurdles faced during races, the emotional aftermath of completing such intense events, and the importance of community support. They discuss the psychological impact of post-race blues, the necessity of taking breaks, and the significance of maintaining a balanced identity outside of running. The conversation highlights the shared experiences of ultra runners and the deep connections formed within the community, emphasizing the need for self-care and understanding the emotional toll of racing.  

In this episode, the hosts celebrate one year of podcasting and welcome Carrie, who shares her unique journey into running, particularly ultra running. Carrie discusses her motivations, the impact of the organization Wear Blue, Run to Remember, and her transition from road running to trail running. She emphasizes the importance of community support, learning to ask for help, and the mental challenges faced during ultra races. The conversation highlights the personal growth that comes from running and the adventures that await beyond racing.   Follow Carrie on Instagram: @wanderlust_trailguide   For more information on Wear ⁠Blue:https://www.wearblueruntoremember.org/⁠

In this episode of Let's Run That, hosts Michelle and Heidi are joined by ultra runners Tom Polen and Stephen Park to discuss their experiences at the Cocodona 250 race. The conversation delves into the challenges faced during the race, the importance of community and support, and the mental and physical strategies required to complete such a grueling event. Tom shares his journey leading up to Cocodona, including his previous attempts and the lessons learned along the way. Stephen provides insight into his own race experience, highlighting the camaraderie among runners and the vital role of nutrition and pacing. The episode culminates in an emotional recounting of the finish line experience, emphasizing the strength of the ultra running community. In this engaging conversation, the speakers reflect on their experiences in ultra running, particularly focusing on the challenges and triumphs faced during races. They discuss the importance of community, support, and mental resilience, as well as the lessons learned from both successes and DNFs. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of setting clear goals, adapting to challenges, and cultivating kindness within the running community. Ultimately, they highlight the journey of self-discovery and the connections formed through shared experiences in the sport.   Follow Tom & Stephen on Instagram: @raymond_now @irunfarslowly

In this episode, ultra runners Stacy and Kyle share their unique journeys into the world of ultra running, discussing their experiences with races, the challenges of DNFs, and the dynamics of racing together as a couple. They reflect on the mental and physical aspects of endurance sports, the importance of community support, and the lessons learned from their various race experiences. The conversation highlights the personal growth that comes from pushing one's limits and the camaraderie found within the ultra running community. Stacy shares her journey through ultra running, discussing the challenges she faced, the mental strength required, and the joy she found in the process. She reflects on the importance of community support, and her preparation for winter ultras. The discussion emphasizes the significance of persistence, learning from failures, and the fun aspects of endurance racing.   Follow Stacy and Kyle on Instagram: @endurance_unicorn_ @kyle.kalbus

In this episode, Heidi and Michelle discuss Michelle's experience at Cocodona 250 in May. Michelle reflects on the challenges faced during Cocodona, including weather conditions, mental resilience, and the importance of sleep. The conversation also touches on the role of pacers, the emotional journey of ultra running, and strategies for upcoming races. They emphasize the significance of visualization and staying present during the race, as well as the support from their crews, and touch on some thoughts as Heidi approaches the Devil's Gulch 100 this upcoming weekend.

In this episode, Chrissy Blankenship shares her inspiring journey from hating running in the Army to becoming an ultra runner. She discusses the importance of community, mental challenges, and the balance between family life and training. Chrissy reflects on her experiences with 100K and 100-mile races, emphasizing the mental and physical preparation required for ultra running. She also shares insights on overcoming obstacles, the solitary nature of long-distance running, and her plans for the upcoming Devil Dog 100-Miler.

In this episode, Molly Hernandez shares her journey from road running to ultra running, detailing her experiences with her first 100 mile attempt at Rocky Raccoon. She discusses the challenges of training, the mental hurdles faced on race day, and the importance of community support. Molly reflects on her DNF experience, emphasizing the lessons learned and the value of perseverance. She also touches on fueling strategies and the emotional aspects of ultra running, ultimately inspiring listeners to embrace their own journeys in the sport. Follow Molly on Instagram: @yourrunningbff

In this conversation, Melissa Londry shares her journey from a new mother to an accomplished ultra runner and race director. She discusses the challenges she faced during her races, particularly the Mamba 100, and the mental load of balancing family responsibilities with her passion for running. Melissa emphasizes the importance of self-care for mothers and the need for inclusive spaces in the running community, particularly through organizations like Trail Sisters, which advocate for women's rights in sports. The discussion highlights the ongoing gender disparity in ultra running and the efforts being made to create a more supportive environment for female athletes. Melissa discusses the challenges faced by female runners in trail and ultra running, including the intimidation of technical trails and the fear of not being fast enough. The discussion shifts to the importance of addressing sexual harassment in the running community, emphasizing the need for policies and support systems to create a safe environment for all participants. The conversation also touches on the societal pressures women face regarding their appearance while running, the role of men in combating gender issues, and the importance of building a supportive community for all runners. Melissa shares her future plans and the ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity and safety in the sport. On Instagram, follow along with Melissa's races! @newrivertrailraces @crystalspringultras   ⁠www.swvarunning.com⁠ ⁠https://ustrailrunningconference.com/speakers/⁠

In this episode, we chat with Claire Bochenek, a passionate runner who shares her experiences with the Marathon des Sables (MDS), a grueling six-day race through the Moroccan desert. Claire discusses her journey into running, the allure of MDS, her training and preparation challenges, and the excitement of race day. She also delves into the logistical aspects of traveling to Morocco, the atmosphere of the race, and the importance of foot care and nutrition during such an intense event. We discuss the importance of nutrition, mental strategies for coping with physical challenges, and the unexpected realities of racing in extreme conditions. The conversation highlights the psychological impact of witnessing others struggle, the physical toll of the race, and the reflections that come after such a demanding experience. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the need for balance and acceptance in one's running journey.   Follow Claire on Instagram: @clairebeaux

In this episode, Heidi and Michelle chat with Elliot Matson, the founder of Folklord, a trail running apparel brand. They discuss the unique designs inspired by mythology, the journey of building the brand, and the importance of storytelling in connecting with the running community. Elliot shares his personal running experiences and the challenges of creating a brand that stands out in the outdoor apparel market. In this conversation, they explore the intersection of folklore, design, and the running community. Elliot shares how he draws inspiration from various folklore elements while emphasizing joy, community, and storytelling in their designs. They discuss the importance of branding through unique photography and the playful spirit of running, moving away from the traditional focus on suffering in the sport. The conversation also touches on the significance of mindset, finding joy in the journey, and creating accessible products that resonate with the community. Follow along on Instagram: @wearfolklord ⁠https://wearfolklord.com/⁠

In this episode, Heidi and Michelle welcome Julie Shobe, a registered dietitian specializing in ultra running nutrition. They discuss the critical role of nutrition in preventing DNFs (Did Not Finish) in races, the importance of protein for muscle repair, and common mistakes ultra runners make regarding fueling. Julie shares her journey into this niche of nutrition, emphasizing the need for variety and practical tips for runners to optimize their performance. The conversation highlights the interplay between nutrition and mindset, providing valuable insights for both novice and experienced ultra runners. Julie shares her expertise on nutrition strategies for ultra runners, discussing the importance of variety in fueling, understanding race terrain, and managing hydration and mouth issues during long races. She emphasizes the need for strategic planning in nutrition, the common mistakes runners make, and how to respond to nutritional deficits effectively. The discussion also covers the challenges of navigating nutrition marketing and the benefits of incorporating real food into an ultra running diet.   Check out all the great content Julie has on Instagram! @ultra.running.nutrition

In this episode, Paul Gibbs shares his unique journey into the world of ultra running, discussing his experiences with DNFs, and the lessons learned along the way. From his initial motivation to run after a personal loss to his attempts at the Long Haul 100, Paul reflects on the challenges and triumphs of his running career. He emphasizes the importance of community support, proper training, and mental resilience in overcoming obstacles in ultra running. The conversation also touches on the significance of nutrition and hydration strategies during long races, as well as the emotional impact of social media on runners' self-perception. The conversation explores themes of comparison, personal growth, and the significance of nutrition in performance, culminating in reflections on recent race experiences and the evolution of his training approach.   Follow Paul's journey to 100 miles on Instagram: @theblueeyedrunner24

In this conversation, ultra runner John Kelly discusses his experiences with the Barkley Marathons and other multi-day events. He shares insights into the allure of these challenging races, the mental strategies he employs when faced with obstacles, and his thoughts on the critics of such events. John emphasizes the importance of patience, adaptability, and finding meaning in arbitrary challenges, as well as the mental processes behind DNFing (Did Not Finish) during races. In this conversation, John shares his experiences with the Barkley Marathons, discussing the lessons learned from his DNF (Did Not Finish) experiences and how his mindset has evolved over time. He emphasizes the importance of intrinsic motivation, the value of enjoying the journey rather than fixating solely on the finish, and how reframing goals has changed his approach to racing. John also touches on the absurdity of pursuing challenging goals and the significance of nutrition and preparation in ultra running. He concludes with insights on pursuing big dreams, like his upcoming Appalachian Trail FKT attempt, encouraging others to embrace challenges and learn from failures.

In this episode, Heidi and Michelle welcome Jack Pitcher, the fastest Briton to run across Australia. Jack shares his journey from a young, competitive runner to breaking records in ultra marathons. The conversation delves into the mental aspects of running, the importance of consistency, and the barriers that new runners face. They also discuss the influence of social media and the responsibility that comes with being a running influencer. Jack discusses the importance of authentic running influencers and how he aims to inspire others by demonstrating that anyone can achieve great things regardless of their background. Jack recounts the challenges he faced while attempting to run across Australia, including a severe car accident and the mental and physical toll of running 120K a day. He reflects on the lessons learned from pushing his limits and the impact of his experiences on his mental health. He emphasizes the importance of self-belief and how he transformed his struggles into motivation for his future as a motivational speaker. The discussion also touches on the societal norms surrounding success and the pursuit of new records, highlighting the idea that anyone can achieve greatness regardless of their background.   Check out Jack on Instagram: @jack_pitcher_   And check out this promo video for his upcoming adventure: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/reel/DINxsjFNO-K/?igsh=a2w3MHZoY2RrMXpu

In this conversation, Heidi and Michelle chat with Josh Rosenthal of Borderlands and delve into the world of ultra running, focusing on the topic of Did Not Finish (DNF) experiences. Josh shares his personal journey with DNFs, emphasizing the importance of mindset, community support, and the lessons learned from each attempt. They discuss the significance of language in shaping one's approach to races and the emotional and mental challenges faced by ultra runners.   Josh has his own podcast, and Borderlands is a huge and wonderful resource for anyone looking to learn more about ultrarunning and get involved. Find him on Instagram, and the Borderlands podcast: @runborderlands   Join me at the Devil's Gulch 100 mile race in Wenatchee, WA in July! For more information: ⁠https://www.evergreentrailruns.com/heidi/⁠   We are so incredibly grateful for your support, and listening and sharing is the BEST way to help us grow and share more stories! If you want to support financially, any small amount helps us keep this podcast going. We appreciate YOU! ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/letsrunthag⁠

In this conversation, Maude Gorman shares her transformative journey through athletics, overcoming personal struggles with eating disorders, and the impact of relationships on her athletic pursuits. She discusses her recovery, the challenges she faced, and how she rebuilt her life and found purpose in running. Maude emphasizes the importance of community support, perspective in endurance sports, and the milestones she achieved, culminating in her first 100-mile race. Her story is one of resilience, growth, and the power of second chances. Maude shares her journey through the world of ultra running, discussing the validation she sought through racing and the loneliness she felt. The discussion highlights the power of vulnerability, the joy of rediscovering one's passion, and the supportive nature of the ultra running community.   Find Maude on Instagram: @maudernliving

In this conversation, Heidi and Michelle interview Steph Cloutier, an ultra runner who shares her journey from casual running to participating in ultra marathons. Steph discusses her first experiences with ultra running, the challenges she faced during her first 100-mile race, and the mental strength required to overcome obstacles. She reflects on her return to the Javelina race, emphasizing the importance of preparation and support from the running community. The discussion also touches on the concept of redemption in racing and personal growth through experiences of DNF (Did Not Finish). In this conversation, the speakers discuss their experiences with running, particularly focusing on the challenges of DNF (Did Not Finish) races, the joy of running for its own sake, and the importance of having multiple motivations or 'whys' for participating in endurance sports. They also explore the balance between family life and personal running goals, addressing the common feelings of mom guilt that arise when pursuing athletic endeavors. The conversation emphasizes the significance of understanding one's support system and the expectations set for future generations in the context of running and endurance sports.

This is a special podcast crossover episode! Also airing on the podcast That's Runnable with Tommy Lewis, we dive in and chat with Tommy about all things running! We share our personal experiences with training, the challenges of specific races like Cocodona 250 and Devil's Gulch, and the philosophy of maintaining fitness for adventure beyond just running. We also delve into the nuances of ultra running, comparing local races to major events, and discussing the differences between European and American ultra races. The discussion culminates in preparations for the Devil's Gulch race, emphasizing the importance of mindset and gratitude in the face of challenges.   Please check out Tommy's podcast, That's Runnable: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/4Lr743lZe67cqlHSqHgcRC⁠   and check out Tommy on Instagram: @tommyrunpt @thatsrunnable

n this episode, Heidi and Michelle welcome Katie Warren, an avalanche forecaster and race director for Evergreen Trails. They discuss Katie's unique career path, her passion for running, and the challenges of balancing her job with training for ultra marathons. Katie shares insights into her experiences as a race director, the importance of community in racing, and her upcoming participation in the Hood Hundred. She emphasizes the significance of connection—both with oneself and the community—through running, and reflects on the challenges faced by runners during races, particularly regarding DNF decisions.   Find Katie on Instagram: @just_a_girl_and_a_husky   Also check out Evergreen Trails, especially Devil's Gulch which you can register for with discount code HEIDIB https://www.evergreentrailruns.com/

Due to some technical issues we had to work through, there may be a few spots of pausing or overlapping voices in this episode, and for that we apologize! In this episode we welcome guest Jason Bahamundi of RunTriBike and we explore the world of endurance sports, emphasizing the importance of community, vulnerability, and humor. We discuss how everyday athletes can find their place in the sport, the significance of having a strong 'why' to motivate training, and the life lessons that can be drawn from endurance challenges. While we laugh and joke a lot, Jason also helps us touch on some important pieces, like safety in running. You'll laugh a lot in this one- we are so thankful for our friends like Jason at RunTriBike!   Check out Jason on Instagram: @cooktraineatrace @runtrimag @everyday_athlete_podcast_ntwrk   https://runtrimag.com/

*Due to some technical issues, there may be some minor sound overlap during the episode In this conversation, ultra runner Manika Gamble shares her incredible journey through unique and challenging races around the world, including her experiences in the Namibia Desert and the Arrowhead 135. The discussion delves into the mental and physical challenges of ultra running, the allure of extreme conditions, and the personal growth that comes from pushing one's limits. Manika reflects on her motivations, the preparation for these races, and the emotional impact of her first DNF at Arrowhead 135, emphasizing the importance of resilience and self-acceptance in the face of adversity. In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore the emotional and physical challenges of ultra running, particularly focusing on the Arrowhead 135 race. They discuss the importance of celebrating efforts beyond just finishing, the lessons learned from experiences of not finishing, and the significance of cultural immersion in races. Follow Manika on Instagram @manikaruns ⁠   Manika's GoFundMe

In this conversation, Avery Matthews shares her inspiring journey into ultra running, discussing her training strategies, experiences with significant races like the Grindstone 100, and the challenges she faced, including a DNF and gallbladder surgery. She emphasizes the importance of mindset, nutrition, and the journey of ultra running, culminating in her participation in the Grand Slam of Ultra Running. In this conversation, Avery discusses the mental and physical challenges she faced during races, the importance of mindset, and how she balances her passion for running with family life. She emphasizes the power of acceptance and perspective on suffering, which has culminated through her entire life with her life experiences.   Check her out on Instagram: @thelowcountryrunner     If you want to join Heidi or learn more about The Devil's Gulch by Evergreen Trails, check out the link below! ⁠https://www.evergreentrailruns.com/heidi/

In this conversation, Heidi and Michelle reflect on their experiences at the Dark Anchor ultra race (where Heidi hit her first 100 miler and Michelle accomplished 119 miles!), discussing their personal achievements, recovery processes, unexpected challenges faced during the race, and the emotional roller coaster that comes with ultra running. They share insights on the physical and mental aspects of recovery, the importance of support from friends, and the lessons learned from their experiences. They share personal anecdotes about overcoming difficulties during the race and emphasize the significance of community support and personal growth in the running journey.

In this conversation, Craig Lewis shares his journey as an everyday athlete and podcaster, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in the running community. He discusses the transition from casual running to ultra running, the challenges faced due to health issues, and the invaluable lessons learned from various races. The conversation highlights the power of community, collaboration, and the significance of nutrition in endurance sports. They discuss the profound impact of running on mental health, the sense of community within the running world, and the excitement of future running adventures. Follow Craig on Instagram: @running_tales_ @craig_on_the_run   And follow his Substack: https://substack.com/@runningtales   Also be sure to check out his podcast: Running Tales with Craig Lewis on The Everyday Athlete Podcast Network

In this episode, ultra runner and coach Ryan Head shares his journey into the world of ultra running, discussing his recent accomplishments, the beauty of Utah, and the importance of community in the running world. He reflects on the challenges faced during his first 100-mile race and the lessons learned along the way, emphasizing the mental aspects of ultra running and the supportive nature of the ultra running community. They discuss the challenges faced during races, including weather conditions and personal struggles, and the significance of taking ownership of one's decisions, especially in the context of a DNF (Did Not Finish). The dialogue highlights the journey of rebuilding confidence through training and the realization that the process of preparation is what truly transforms an individual, rather than the finish line itself. In this conversation, Ryan shares his experiences and insights from ultra running, emphasizing the importance of training, self-belief, and learning from failures. He discusses how moments of joy and realization during races can transform one's mindset and approach to challenges. The discussion also touches on the parallels between ultra running and life, highlighting how failures can serve as valuable learning experiences. Ryan expresses his goals for the future and his desire to foster a supportive running community. Find Ryan on Instagram: @ry_head

In this conversation, Heidi and Michelle engage with Sarah Strong, a licensed clinical social worker and ultra runner, to explore the mental and emotional challenges faced by ultra runners, particularly in the context of DNFs. They discuss the emotional landscape of racing, and the importance of self-compassion and values in running. Sarah shares insights on how to navigate the grief and disappointment that can accompany a DNF, as well as practical strategies for managing race anxiety and fostering mental resilience. The conversation emphasizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental health in the ultra running community.   Find Sarah on Instagram: @the_trail_therapist and at her website: In this conversation, Heidi and Michelle engage with Sarah Strong, a licensed clinical social worker and ultra runner, to explore the mental and emotional challenges faced by ultra runners, particularly in the context of DNFs. They discuss the emotional landscape of racing, and the importance of self-compassion and values in running. Sarah shares insights on how to navigate the grief and disappointment that can accompany a DNF, as well as practical strategies for managing race anxiety and fostering mental resilience. The conversation emphasizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental health in the ultra running community.   Find Sarah on Instagram: @the_trail_therapist and at her website: https://www.fireweedcounselingllc.com/

In this episode, Heidi and Michelle sit down with Amanda Rasmussen, an ultra runner and mother, to discuss her journey in the world of ultra running. Amanda shares her experiences, including her weight loss journey, the challenges she faced during races, and the emotional aspects of running. The conversation delves into the differences between 100-mile and 200-mile races, the importance of running with a partner, and the life lessons learned through ultra running. Amanda emphasizes the significance of community, acceptance, and personal growth in her running journey. In this conversation, Amanda Rasmussen, Michelle Goldberg, and Heidi discuss the profound experiences and lessons learned from ultra running, particularly focusing on Amanda's recent 200-mile race at Tahoe. The discussion also touches on overcoming fears, the significance of recovery practices, and the challenges of maintaining a healthy lifestyle amidst busy schedules. Amanda is also running the Devil's Gulch 100 Mile ultra with Heidi- which you can register for with her discount code AMANDA25 for any of the distances!   Find Amanda on Instagram: @runnermomamanda

In this episode, Michelle and Heidi reflect on the year 2024, what we've learned and taken away from what we are doing here in this podcast space, and our hopes for 2025. We also take a few questions from our followers, and look forward into the new year with some new intentions.

Andy Glaze is well known in the ultrarunnning world, especially on social media. Andy talks with us about mindset- and how his has evolved over the years of being in the sport, and how he mentally handles tough decisions and DNFs. Andy also talks with us about his work/life balance, and his own personal struggles with mental health and why he speaks up about it so often.   As we say in the episode, here are some mental health free resources: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial: 988 Website: 988lifeline.org   Crisis Text Line: Text: HOME to 741741 (U.S. and Canada) Website: crisistextline.org   NAMI Helpline (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Dial: 1-800-950-NAMI Website: nami.org   Check out Andy on Instagram and TikTok @amglaze @glazeruns

Kenneth Pinckney is the founder of Live Run Boundless and the author of "The Hills We Climb".  Kenneth talks with us about his journey into running and ultrarunning and how his past experiences have brought him on this journey.  To him- it is all about the relationships in this running world, and creating a community of people who regardless of past experiences are out there challenging themselves and embracing the blessings they find along the way.   Check out his website and Instagram: @live_run_boundless https://www.liverunboundless.com/   Also check out his book here! https://www.liverunboundless.com/

Aum Gandhi tells us his superpower would be to make everyone feel special- and that is exactly what he is doing with Run Tri Bike as a co-owner who is helping spread the word and sharing stories of everyday athletes and inspiring people.  He talks with us about his recent DNF at Moab 240, how he approaches DNFs and growth in the sport.  Aum gives insight into constantly learning through mistakes and failures, and gives us a peak into his future goals.   Find Aum on Instagram: @theaumgandhi @runtrimag   Richstone Family Center: https://www.richstonefamily.org/ @richstonefamily    

You may know her as Marathon Costume Chic, and even if you don't follow her you have likely seen Charlotte Corriher at a race- she has completed almost 300 marathon or greater distance races, and over 100 ultramarathons. The best part is she does each one in costume! While no one would look at her Ultrasignup profile and think she takes the easy route at ALL, Charlotte struggles with a fear of DNFs and tends to sign up for races she knows she can finish. We talk about this and about her goals to step out of her comfort zone in 2025.   Find Charlotte on Instagram: @marathoncostumechic   Sign up for Devil's Gulch using code HeidiB: https://www.evergreentrailruns.com/heidi/

Joe Hardin is an ultrarunner, podcast host, writer for RunTriBike, and he comes on to talk about his DNF at his recent 100 mile attempt. He went into the race with a lot stacked up against him and still gave an incredible effort. He gives us insight into how he processed it, and his plans moving forward! Listen in for a really relatable and great outlook on how DNFs do not define us but create lessons for us to take moving forward.   Find Joe on Instagram: @trail_tortoise_running @runtrimag @everyday_athlete_podcast_ntwrk

In this incredible episode we have TWO guests to gives us two different perspectives and insights. Elizabeth Flores dives into her running journey and her recent DNF at Moab 240. We are also joined by one of her pacers and members of her crew, Kate Oliver, to here the different perspectives and memories from the race. This longer episode is worth the listen!   Find Elizabeth and Kate on Instagram: @run.floresrun @modlang3

Hazel Harrison is an incredibly accomplished ultrarunner who has an amazing story. One of her most notable accomplishments is the Marathon des Sables, and incredibly challenging seven day ultramarathon, which she actually wrote a book about as well recapping her experience. She is also a coach and talks with us about how she overcomes difficulties in both training and life, how she works with mindset to approach her own training and races and helps her own athletes with similar struggles.   Check out Hazel on Instagram: @run_hazel_run or on her website: ⁠https://www.runhazelrun.com/⁠   Link to her book, "Brutally Beautiful" ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Brutally-Beautiful-return-toughest-footrace/dp/0473635933⁠

Alyssa Lieb is a mountain sports dietician, ultrarunner, lover of the mountains and the sports that go along with it.  She recently participated in The Rut Trifecta, which consists of a VK, 28k, and 50k races.  She DNF'd the 50k after completing the other races in the prior days, and takes us through her decision making process, her mindset around DNFs and the stigma often carried with them, and how she chose joy over a 50k finish that day.   Follow her on Instagram: @alyssaoutside_rd   And check out her website: https://www.peaktopeaknutrition.com/

In this bonus episode, Heidi and Michelle recap their experiences at two different races on the same weekend. Heidi dives into her DNF at the No Business 100, what went wrong, and the plan going forward. Michelle talks about her successful completion of Javelina Jundred on a record heat weekend in Arizona.

Andrea Moore is an incredibly accomplished ultrarunner with Bigfoot 200, Cocodona 250, Moab 240, and more just being some of her recent trail victories. But outside of her Ultrasignup score is her incredible outlook and overwhelming positivity and love for the trails and journey. Andrea is bursting with love and we are so happy to share her story and mindset with you all.   Follow Andrea on Instagram: @andthensome1 And TikTok: @andthensome1

Jeff Winchester is an ultrarunner, ultrarunning coach, podcast host, and all around inspirational person with wonderful insights into the sport. He talks with us about his personal experiences with DNFs, his coaching perspective, as well as diving into his recent experience of a cancelled ultramarathon and a last minute shift into a new race. Jeff has recently started a new podcast called Blueprint to Ultra! Be sure to check out his socials and his website below. @winchesterjeff @blueprint_to_ultra ⁠jwultrarunning.com⁠

Richard (Ricky) Urias is an ultrarunner, father, and works for Ultraspire!  He is a genuine and kind person who volunteered at the Zion 100 Milestone Challenge and paced several athletes to their goals.  He talks about his journey into running and ultras, how he learned to shift his perspectives and learn to enjoy the journey, how he handles hard and challenging moments, and his thoughts on imposter syndrome and belonging in the world of ultras.   Follow Richard on Instagram: @ragerhino

Although not a DNF story, Regina joins us to talk about her first experience with 100 miles, having only run a 50k as her longest distance prior to it. She never expected to run 100 miles, so she talked us through her challenges, how she overcame and found her way to 100 miles! She also talks over her mindset going into her new scary goal coming up soon!!   Find her on Instagram: @whollyregina