The Ostrich Running Podcast

Ultra runners are weird… and today Jarett is asking all the questions every normal person has been thinking.How do you even become an ultra runner?How much do you eat during a race?Do you need a crew?How do people run through the night?And honestly… what do you even win for doing this?In this episode (and reoccuring throughout season 2) of the Ostrich Running Podcast, Nick and Jarett break down ultra running in the most approachable way possible—covering gear, fueling, training, recovery, race day insanity, and the mindset behind running extreme distances.Whether you’re an experienced runner, curious beginner, or someone who thinks ultra runners are completely insane… this episode is for you.This is Ask an Ultra Runner.The Ostrich Running StoreAlethia Run Sensor (Use Code RUNSCARED 10)

Your fitness didn’t disappear… your fuel did.In this solo episode, Nick shares a recent experience with under-fueling that led to a failed tempo run—and breaks down what’s actually happening in your body when you’re not eating enough.From glycogen depletion to muscle performance, this episode explains why fueling is critical not just during your runs, but across your entire training cycle.If your legs are giving out before your lungs, this is a lesson you don’t want to miss.Ostrich Running WebsiteAltethia Run Sensor

What does it actually take to commit to something most people wouldn’t even consider? In this episode, Nick sits down with Mason Wright—also known as The Buff Runner—to break down his next challenge: running 1,000 miles on a track to raise money for the Single Parent Project. After completing 421 miles across Utah, Mason is taking things even further—and this time, removing the scenery, the variation, and everything that usually distracts you. Just a track.Just repetition.Just the decision to keep going. We get into:Why he chooses these extreme challengesWhat goes into planning something like thisThe logistics most people never think aboutWhat happens when things start to break downAnd the mindset required to keep going when there’s no external pressure to finishThis isn’t just about running. It’s about purpose, discipline, and choosing to do hard things.Buff Runner WebsiteThe Single Parent Project

Ultra running 20 years ago is not the same sport it is today.In this episode, we break down how much the sport has changed from the mid-2000s to now—looking at top athletes like Scott Jurek, Karl Meltzer, and Nikki Kimball, and comparing them to modern runners like Jim Walmsley, Kilian Jornet, and Courtney Dauwalter.We dive into how race times have improved across 100K and 100-mile distances, including Western States, and what’s really driving those changes. Is it better athletes… or better systems? We also get into the evolution of gear and fueling:Shoes (from basic trainers to super shoes)Watches and data trackingFueling strategies and how modern runners are approaching carbs and sodiumAnd the big question: Has ultra running gotten harder… or just smarter?Ostrich Running StoreAlethia Run Sensor

Six years ago, I couldn’t run more than 1.7 miles. I remember that first run—feeling like I was dying, wondering how I would ever make it to a 5k.At the time, I was early into sobriety, dealing with a loud mind, and trying to rebuild my life one step at a time. I didn’t feel like a runner. I felt like someone who had never finished anything he started.Running gave me something simple: a finish line. In this solo episode, I share the journey from that first 1.7-mile run to now chasing a podium at a 50k. The failures along the way, the moments where things started to shift, and how consistency changed everything.This isn’t just about running—it’s about identity, growth, and what happens when you commit to something long enough to see who you become.I don’t know if I’ll podium. But I do know I’m going to find out what I’m capable of.Alethia Run SensorOstrich Running Store

Ultra running is stupid… or is it?In this episode, Nick and Jarett go head-to-head on the question most people are already thinking: why would anyone run 100 miles?Jarett takes the position that ultra running makes absolutely no sense—voluntarily suffering for hours with no real payoff. Nick pushes back, breaking down what actually happens when you’re deep into a run and why people keep coming back despite how hard it gets.This conversation dives into the psychology of endurance, the reality of mile 70, and whether pushing yourself this far is growth… or just unnecessary suffering.It’s honest, it’s uncomfortable, and it doesn’t try to pretend ultra running makes sense.Ostrich Running SiteAlethia Sensor- RUNSCARES10 For 10% OFF

Don Tyler Knotts (@chefdonknotts) is not just an ultra runner—he’s a father, Army veteran, wildland firefighter, chef, and sober life coach who has lived multiple lives and come out stronger on the other side. In this episode, we dive deep into Don’s journey through sobriety, faith, and endurance. From completing the Swammie Shuffle 200 to rebuilding after injury, Don shares how the trails became his church and how running helped him confront his biggest enemy—himself. We talk about hallucinations deep into ultras, fueling with sandwiches and soup, the power of prayer on the trail, and the mission behind Swammie Shuffle and Awareness N Action. This one goes beyond running—it’s about purpose, redemption, and becoming better every single day.Awareness n Action (Veteran Suicide Prevention)Alethia SensorOstrich Running StoreIG: @chefdonknotts

This week’s episode of the Ostrich Running Podcast is a short one — a bite-size episode designed to give you something practical you can carry into your next run or race.Nick shares five mental tools that have helped him get through difficult miles during ultras and long training days.These are simple mindset strategies that can help when fatigue sets in, doubt creeps in, and the race becomes more mental than physical.If you’re heading out for a run and need a little motivation or perspective, this episode is for you.Ostrich RunningAlethia SensorBe sure to visit the site and try Ostrich Salt today! Use Code SALTY6 for your $6 sampler packAlso visit Alethia and use code RUNSCARED10 for your discount on the running sensor!

In this episode of the Ostrich Running Podcast, Nick sits down with ultrarunner and coach Steve Epifano to talk about the story behind his new documentary and what it means to chase big goals as a regular runner. Steve has raced everything from short distances to 200-mile ultras, but instead of focusing on podium finishes or elite performances, his film highlights the reality of endurance running — the long hours, the uncertainty, and the personal growth that happens when you keep moving forward. The conversation dives into:Why Steve chose to tell the story of mid-pack runnersThe lessons learned from filming his own journeyBeing told his limits early on — and pushing beyond themThe mindset required to keep going when things get hardWhat ultrarunning reveals about who we really areThis episode is about more than racing — it’s about finding out what you’re capable of when you commit to something difficult. 🎧 Listen, subscribe, and join the flock for more real conversations about running, mindset, and the stories behind the miles.Oh No!: A Cocodona Story Documentary Sacfly Productions IGSocal Runners CoachingSteve Epifano IGOstrich RunningAlethia Run Sensor

In this solo episode, Nick explores what it means to keep improving as a runner at 39 years old.Is slowing down inevitable, or can hard work and smarter training still lead to growth? This conversation dives into aging, performance, mindset, and the idea that running times equal credibility — especially when building a running brand. An honest look at pushing limits, chasing progress, and redefining what’s possible with age.Run scared. Keep flocking moving.Alethia Running Sensor (Use Code RUNSCARED10)Ostrich Running

Training for races isn’t just about miles. In this solo episode, Nick shares lessons learned from years of racing and training — including fueling strategies, gut training, why time on feet matters more than mileage, and how strength and stability work help runners stay strong late in races.If you’re preparing for your next race, this episode will help you train smarter and show up ready.Run scared. Keep flocking moving.www.ostrichrunning.comwww.alethia.run

This week on the Ostrich Running Podcast, Nick takes Jarett to the heart of running culture — Eugene, Oregon: TrackTown USA. From learning about the legacy of Steve Prefontaine and how he challenged the system for American runners, to diving into modern running science at Aletheia Run Lab, this episode explores how running has evolved — and what still hasn’t changed. The guys unpack:• Why so many elite athletes used to be broke• Whether companies still profit more than the athletes themselves• Lessons from analyzing running form and efficiency• And what everyday runners can learn from TrackTown culturePlus, Jarett gets a crash course in running history, and Nick shares insights he’s bringing into his own training heading into upcoming races. Whether you’re chasing a PR or just trying to survive your next long run, this episode connects running’s past, present, and future. 🎧 Lace up and join the conversation.www.ostrichrunning.comwww.alethia.run

Joy isn’t something that magically shows up when life gets easier. It’s something you practice — just like running.In this solo episode, Nick explores the idea that joy is a skill that can be trained through repetition, perspective, and showing up even on hard days. Drawing from lessons learned through running, training blocks, business building, and everyday life, this episode is about learning how to carry light even when things feel heavy.Because the goal isn’t just to run farther — it’s to enjoy the miles along the way. If life has felt heavy lately, this one’s for you.Ostrich RunningAlethia Run Sensor

What does running mean when freedom is taken away?In this episode of The Ostrich Running Podcast, I sit down with Casey Vanderhoef, a formerly incarcerated runner who helped launch Fit From Within—a prison run club that led to something almost unbelievable… a marathon run inside the prison walls.Joining Casey is Utah State Representative Katy Hall, a 12-time Ironman triathlete and the mentor who helped make this movement possible.Together, we talk about the healing power of running, the discipline it creates when excuses disappear, and the kind of community that can form in places most people never think about.This isn’t a political episode. It’s not a highlight reel. It’s a conversation about suffering, resilience, second chances, and what happens when one person chooses to say yes.If you’ve ever needed proof that running can change a life—this is it.Utah Representatives IG988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline(USA) Call or text: 988Chat: https://988lifeline.org Addiction / Substance Use Support (24/7)SAMHSA National Helpline (Treatment Referral & Information) Call: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) Website: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helplineCrisis Text Line (24/7) Text HOME to 741741 Website: https://www.crisistextline.org

Nick breaks down the most honest race recap of his life.At the San Diego 50, he crossed the finish line in 7:42, got congratulated for 4th overall and 1st in his age group… and then discovered the truth: he missed a loop and only ran 45 miles.This episode isn’t about excuses—it’s about focus, execution, and integrity. Nick walks through what led to the mental fog, the cracks that showed up mid-race, the moment everything felt “off,” and the decision he made afterward when he could’ve stayed quiet.Because real winner mindset isn’t how you act when things go right…It’s what you do when they don’t.Ostrich Running IGOstrich Running

In this episode of The Ostrich Running Podcast, Nick sits down with his running coach Melissa Henderson—ultrarunner, 100-mile race winner, coach, and mom—to talk about what it really takes to chase big running goals in a full life.Melissa breaks down how she trains for ultramarathons while balancing family, work, and real-world responsibilities. We dive into winning a 100-mile race in under 24 hours, building mental toughness, avoiding burnout, and why consistency always beats talent.This conversation goes beyond mileage and race results. It’s about discipline without obsession, ambition without guilt, and learning how to pursue meaningful goals the right way.If you’re a runner trying to balance training with life—or someone wondering if big goals still fit your current season—this episode is for you.reach Coach Melissa here

Episode 38 — Training the Mind for the Miles Ahead & The Cost of Comfort In this solo episode of The Ostrich Running Podcast, Nick Meraz speaks directly to the runner listening right now — mid-run, post-race, or somewhere in between. This episode goes beyond mileage and fitness and into the psychology of endurance. We talk about why most runners don’t fall apart at the hardest miles — they fall apart because of thousands of comfortable decisions made long before race day. Nick explores:Why mental readiness matters more than motivationThe hidden cost of comfort in training and everyday lifeHow you train your mind for miles you haven’t reached yetWhy the edge isn’t dramatic — it’s quiet and earnedHow discomfort, fear, and consistency shape who you becomeThis conversation is designed to feel like a long-run talk — honest, reflective, and grounded in lived experience. No hype. No shortcuts. Just the work that actually carries you forward when things get hard. If you’ve ever felt strong but not ready… this episode is for you. Run Scared.Salty 6 Ostrich Salt SamplerAlethia Run

In this solo episode, Nick goes deep into the mental side of running — the part no training plan really prepares you for. He breaks down why the hardest part of any run is simply showing up, how identity shifts from “I run” to “I am a runner,” and the three voices every runner carries with them on the road or trail: the Quitter, the Negotiator, and the Champion. Nick also opens up about his own story as a veteran struggling with addiction, how running became a lifeline, and how that journey gave birth to the phrase “Run Scared” and the Ostrich Running brand. If you’ve ever battled your alarm clock, argued with yourself mid-run, or wondered why you keep lacing up when life is heavy — this one’s for you. In this episode:The psychology of showing up when you don’t want to“I am a runner” vs “I run” – how identity changes everythingThe Quitter, the Negotiator, and the ChampionHow running helped Nick rebuild his life after addictionWhat “Run Scared” really means and why it mattersListen on your next tempo run, long run, or when you need a reminder of why you do this.Alethia RunOstrich Running

Episode 36 — John Calabrese: Navy Grit, 100 Miles of Pain, Addiction, Redemption & the Taco Bell 50K This week on The Ostrich Running Podcast, Nick sits down with John Calabrese — a 100-mile ultrarunner, Navy vet, father, and survivor who has battled alcoholism, heartbreak, and rock-bottom moments most people never come back from. John shares how running went from an escape in childhood… to a stabilizing force after the Navy… to the tool that helped him rebuild his life.We dive into TWOT100, Barkley Fall Classic, hallucinations, training 60–90 miles a week at 45 years old, running impressions mid-race, Ainsley’s Angels, and the infamous Taco Bell 50K. If you love raw, real interviews with runners who have lived some life — don’t skip this one. Topics:• Early life & where running began• Navy service stories• Alcoholism, jail, and turning points• Finishing TWOT100• Barkley Fall Classic + JFK 50• Hallucinating cartoon characters• Ainsley’s Angels & running for others• The Taco Bell 50K• Advice for runners facing darkness Follow John at @breezytrailheadLearn More About Ainsleys AngelsFollow the show @ostrich.runningShop Ostrich Salt at ostrichrunning.com

This week, we’re celebrating Thanksgiving the runner way — by diving into the wildest ultra performances of 2025, spotlighting athletes rewriting what’s possible, and uncovering the surprisingly hilarious history behind the American Turkey Trot tradition.We break down massive new records from Will Murray, Lin Chen, Caitriona Jennings, Hans Troyer, Sarah Perry, Phil Gore, and more — with context, commentary, and the backstories you won’t hear anywhere else.Then we shift gears into the modern-day Turkey Trot madness and trace it all back to the very first trot in Buffalo in 1896 (spoiler: someone dropped out because breakfast was “too heavy”). This episode is equal parts storytelling, humor, and gratitude — the perfect Thanksgiving companion for a shakeout run or your drive to dinner.Run Scared.

Episode 34 — Manika GambleManika Gamble is an ultra runner, world traveler, and adventure-driven athlete who refuses to let setbacks define her. From completing her first ultra in Namibia with blistered feet, to battling and recovering from rhabdomyolysis, to chasing one of the most prestigious achievements in endurance — the Grand Slam of Ultrarunning — her story is one of courage, curiosity, and pure heart. We talk about her mindset, her lessons from recovery, balancing life and running, the joy of exploration, and her mission to become the first African American woman to complete the Grand Slam.This one is inspiring on every level.Run Scared.Manika's Important Links

Episode 33 — ft. Ruairí Moynihan (Trail GangstAZ)”The freestyle king of the desert joins Nick to talk rhythm, resilience, and the art of turning pain into poetry.This week on The Ostrich Running Podcast, Nick sits down with Ruairí Moynihan — ultra runner, coach, and the lyrical powerhouse known as Trail GangstAZ. He’s the artist behind the Ostrich Running anthem, a member of the Aravaipa Running Team, and fresh off a sub-9-hour finish at Javelina Jundred 100K — good for 6th overall. From dropping bars mid-race to rebuilding after injury and loss, Ruairí shares how rhythm, mindset, and movement collide to create something bigger than sport.🎧 Topics include:Freestyling through pain & finding flow in milesCoaching mindset: building rhythm instead of burnoutRecovery after heel surgery & losing his fatherThe story behind Trail GangstAZ and creating the Ostrich anthemWhat it means to “Run scared” when life hits back🎤 Plus: Ruairí closes the show with a freestyle made for the flock. Listen, feel, and run scared. 🔖  Visit TrailGangstAZ for merch and eventsFollow on IG: @trailgangstazSign Up For Flagstaff Doggie Dash here

Episode 32 – The Stories That Changed MeIn this solo episode, I reflect on what I’ve learned after 30+ conversations with ultra runners who have redefined what endurance means.🎧 Act 1: The Common ThreadsWhat do all 100-milers have in common? From addiction recovery to chasing clarity — these runners aren’t just logging miles, they’re rewriting their lives.🎧 Act 2: Interviews That Changed MeFrom veterans to parents, from the broken to the bold, certain stories stuck with me long after we hit stop on the recorder. These are the guests who changed how I see pain, growth, and purpose.🎧 Act 3: What I’ve Learned as a HostThis podcast started as a way to share stories… but it’s become something much deeper. I talk about how the mic made me a better runner, listener, and person — and what’s coming next for the show. 🎙️ Whether you’ve been here since Episode 1 or this is your first listen, this is a behind-the-scenes look at what it really means to run scared — and build something meaningful along the way. 👟Brought to you by:Ostrich Running Alethia Runs📺 Watch on YouTube: @OstrichRunning🎧 Listen on Spotify & Apple: Ostrich Running Podcast📲 Follow on Instagram: @Ostrich.Running

What’s harder than running 100 miles? Donating a kidney — and then toeing the line anyway. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Mannie Zubia — a husband, father, veteran, and ultra runner — whose story stretches far beyond the finish line. We talk about what it means to show up for others and still chase your own wild dreams. Mannie shares how his kidney donation didn’t slow him down — it gave him purpose. From grueling Leadville training runs to redefining masculinity through vulnerability, this conversation dives deep into mindset, healing, grit, and what it means to run for something bigger than yourself.Topics We Cover:Donating a kidney and returning to ultramarathonsTraining for 100-mile races after major life changesFatherhood, service, and reclaiming personal identityWhy the right support system is everythingFueling on the go and trusting your bodyFinding freedom through the pain🎧 This isn’t just another runner’s podcast — it’s a call to action. 💬 Whether you're building mileage, building a life, or rebuilding from something big… Mannie’s story will hit you in the gut and fuel you in the soul. 📺 Watch the full episode:👉 @OstrichRunning on YouTube 🎙️Listen on Spotify / Apple Podcasts🔗 Follow Mannie Zubia:Instagram: @mannie.zubiaDonation link : Team Kidney Moves🔗 Follow the show:IG: @Ostrich.RunningSite: www.ostrichrunning.com 

In this special two-part episode, Nick returns to the 100-mile distance for redemption. One year after his DNF at mile 62, he toes the line at the Kodiak 100 — stronger, wiser, and ready to face the distance that broke him.This second part Nick and Jarett talk about the lessons learned out there on the course. What it took to actually finish this race and what changed for Nick and Jarett after their experiences. Listen as Nick takes you inside the pain cave, the silence between aid stations, and the lessons that only come when you’re running for something bigger than a buckle.

In this special two-part episode, Nick returns to the 100-mile distance for redemption. One year after his DNF at mile 62, he toes the line at the Kodiak 100 — stronger, wiser, and ready to face the distance that broke him.This first part captures the anticipation before the race, the emotional weight of unfinished business, and the first brutal 66 miles of his journey — including on-course moments with pacer Cody Novini that reveal what Run Scared truly means. Listen as Nick takes you inside the pain cave, the silence between aid stations, and the lessons that only come when you’re running for something bigger than a buckle.

Welcome back to the Ostrich Running Podcast! Episode 28 is something special — our very first collaborative episode. We teamed up with Kobie from Ordinary Voices Podcast to dive deep into what drives us as runners, creators, and people chasing growth. This episode is about more than miles. We talk about:👟 The spark behind starting Ostrich Running — the podcast, the brand, and the vision for the future💭 Mindset and consistency — showing up every day whether you feel like it or not⚡ Race-day adversity — how running 100 miles teaches you about life🎯 Doing it for the right reasons — building community, not just content🛠️ The gear and mission — how products like Ostrich Salt fuel the journey One big takeaway?Would we still run, train, and build if social media didn’t exist? Absolutely. This episode captures the heart of what Ostrich Running stands for: running scared, chasing growth, and finding your flock along the way. 🎧 Listen on Spotify: Ordinary Voices Spotify📹 Watch more episodes on YouTube: @Ordinary_Voices_Podcast📸 Follow us on Instagram: @Ostrich.Running @ordinaryvoicespodcast👥 Check out Ordinary Voices: @OrdinaryVoicesPodcast Because running isn’t just about the miles — it’s about the story you’re writing along the way.

Racing Against Time isn’t just the title of Jeffrey Weiss’s new book—it’s a roadmap for every runner who’s ever stared down burnout, grief, or the question: Is this all there is? In this deeply personal conversation, Jeffrey sits down with Nick to talk about how Ironman, ultramarathons, and facing loss reshaped his entire life. They explore what it means to suffer on purpose, the surprising transformation of midlife through sport, and why endurance events are becoming the new rites of passage for men trying to heal. Whether you run to race or to repair your soul, this episode will hit hard—and leave you lacing up for something deeper.📘 Pre-order Racing Against Time Here

In this emotionally raw and ridiculously funny episode, Nick and Jarett unpack the emotional rollercoaster of running — from the quiet rewiring of your brain to the full-blown freakouts on the trail.Nick shares how running reshapes how we manage anger, stress, and even sadness, while Jarett… well, tries to figure out why anyone would choose this madness. This episode blends the serious side of mental growth with hilarious true (and true-ish) stories of runners losing their minds.You'll laugh, you’ll relate, and you’ll walk away realizing: running doesn’t just make you stronger — it makes you more human.

Would you run a mile for free pizza for life? What about a billion dollars… or to legally ban pineapple on pizza?In this hilarious episode of the Ostrich Running Podcast, Nick and Jarett play “Would the Juice Run for That?”—a game that tests if anything could make Jarett, a self-proclaimed run-hater, actually lace up and hit the trail. From Japan trips to stock portfolios to Morgan Freeman narrating his life, the stakes get weird fast.Then in the second half, Nick throws every piece of running jargon he can at Jarett to see what sticks. From “fartleks” to “negative splits” to the made-up “Ostrich Shuffle,” can Jarett figure out what any of it means—or will he bonk before the finish?Whether you're an ultrarunner or just here for the banter, this one’s for the flock.

In this episode of the Ostrich Running Podcast, Nick and Jarett tackle the weird pride runners have — and that constant urge to convert everyone else into running. Is it inspiration? Is it bragging? Or is running secretly a cult?We kick things off from our hotel room at Podcast Movement, breaking down why runners love to talk about their miles, injuries, and finish lines like they’re badges of honor. Then we hit the convention floor to ask random people — both runners and non-runners — how they see running pride, and what their version of a marathon looks like.Whether you’re a runner, a skeptic, or just tired of hearing about somebody else’s PR, this episode digs into why running takes up so much space in our lives… and our conversations.Visit Podcast Videos to help support BangVisit Podfluence to help support Casey Dunn

The One With Majors On The MindWhat happens when the code stops compiling—but it’s not your job, it’s your life? In this episode, Nick sits down with Derrick Song, a software engineer turned ultra runner, to talk about what happens when burnout forces you off the grid and onto the trail.Derrick opens up about the cultural pressures of being Asian-American in the tech world, the unexpected therapy he found through endurance running, and why he's learning to measure success in miles, not metrics.This conversation goes deep—into masculinity, healing, mental health, and what it really means to feel “enough.” Whether you run to race or to escape, this one’s for anyone who's ever felt like life was sprinting past them—and decided to chase it down on foot.Derrick IG: @derickvsworldSpecial Childrens Charities Link : Donate Here

Ultrarunning isn’t just a test of endurance—it’s a test of survival. In this episode, Nick dives into the harrowing true stories from the dark side of ultrarunning: the 2021 Gansu ultramarathon disaster in China where 21 runners lost their lives, the recent passing of Elaine Stypula at the Hardrock 100, and the bizarre and brutal injuries runners have faced—including going blind mid-race.This episode honors the runners we’ve lost, explores the razor-thin line between passion and peril, and asks the tough question: how far is too far?Whether you're an ultrarunner, a trail junkie, or just someone fascinated by the extremes of human endurance—this one’s for you.Warning: This episode contains discussion of real-life tragedy and may be difficult for some listeners.

In this episode of the Ostrich Running Podcast, host Nick Meraz interviews Bri Santos, a remarkable mother of seven and ultra runner. Bri shares her journey of balancing motherhood with her passion for running, highlighting the challenges and triumphs she faces along the way. From starting her running journey during the pandemic to overcoming health issues, Bri emphasizes the importance of self-care and setting goals. She discusses her aspirations to run the Western States 100 and the significance of representation in the running community. Throughout the conversation, Bri's resilience and determination shine through, inspiring listeners to push their limits and prioritize their well-being.Bri's IG: @bri_santos

The One WIth A History LessonWhy run 100 miles? Why invent races so hard they chew people up? Today on the Ostrich Running Podcast, Nick and Jarett dig deep into the surprising, messy, and weirdly inspiring history of ultramarathons.From ancient hunters in the African savanna overheating antelope for dinner to Victorian gamblers betting on men to walk 500 miles without sleep, this is the story of how humans decided “too far” wasn’t far enough. We’ll meet Greek couriers sprinting between city-states, Tarahumara runners navigating canyon trails long before GPS, and South African soldiers who turned grief into a 56-mile memorial.We’ll trace the rise of pedestrianism—complete with champagne aid stations—and the gritty American trail boom that spawned Western States, Leadville, and Badwater from bar bets and civic desperation. By the end, you’ll see ultrarunning not just as a sport but as a mirror held up to human nature: stubborn, curious, hungry for meaning through suffering—and always ready to ask, “What if we just... went farther?”Pedestrianism BookThe Bunion DerbyGrit Guts Determination - Ken Chlouber StoryRunning On The Sun Documentary

This week on The Ostrich Running Podcast, we sit down with Wes Cornett—a retired U.S. Air Force Special Warfare operator turned ultrarunner, writer, and storyteller who is running with a diagnosis of early-onset Lewy Body Dementia.Wes doesn’t sugarcoat anything. We talk about the real stuff: depression, sobriety, what it’s like to get lost on trail and concussed, finishing a 100-miler after two DNFs, and training for the Western States 100 even as time feels short.He shares why he still shows up every damn day, how running helped him get sober, and the role of family—especially Elise and his daughter who crew and pace him. It’s raw, it’s honest, and it’s exactly the kind of conversation we think matters in the running world.We also talk about pizza as the perfect ultra fuel, Monster Rehab pre-run rituals, meeting Elise on the Appalachian Trail, and why kindness on trail goes a long way.If you’ve ever felt broken, discouraged, or like the miles are numbered—this one’s for you.Lewy Body Dementia Foundation

In this raw and revealing episode, we flip the script. Jarett interviews Nick Meraz, the founder of Ostrich Running—ultrarunner, veteran, and creator of a brand that’s become a home for the broken, the slow, the weirdos, and the wild ones. We talk about where the brand really came from (spoiler: it wasn’t a business plan), what Run Scared really means, and why Ostrich Running is bigger than merch—it’s a movement. Whether you’re new to the flock or you’ve been here since the first black-and-white hat dropped, this one’s for you. 🎧 What you'll hear:Why the brand started in a dark placeWhat it takes to build from zeroThe real stories behind Run ScaredOstrich Running Website

The One With Olympic Trial Dreams Pt 1Xavier Smith is one of the fastest runners you've never heard of—because in the world of elite track and field, if you’re not already a star, you’re on your own. In this episode, we go deep into what it’s like chasing Olympic Trials while balancing fatherhood, physical and mental obstacles, and a system that doesn’t reward even the best. This is for the grinders. The ghosts. The 99% of elite athletes running on hope and hustle. This is part 1 of a 2 part episode. Performance Elite Running

Nick and Jarett unpack eight wild (and maybe terrifying) ways artificial intelligence is about to crash the aid station. Will algorithm-built shoes, real-time pacing bots, and carbon-score race calendars save our legs—or ruin the soul of ultra-running? No guest, just unfiltered debate, occasional tech meltdowns, and plenty of laughter for your next long run.

The One Where He Runs For Those Who CantIce-cream miles, surprise ultra wins, and a 75-kilometre mountain-to-mountain fundraiser—Isaac “The Green Runner” Leighninger joins Nick to unpack the joy-first mindset that turns pain into purpose. From jumping cars to praying on start lines, Isaac explains how faith, fun, and community fuel his fight against pediatric brain cancer and his own battles with concussion and COVID heart issues. If you need proof that gratitude and grind can share the same trail, press play.Want to try Isaacs go to flavor of mid run ice cream?Check out Josh and Johns and ask for the yellow cake!Here is also links to the some information on DIPG and research. You can find a list of fundraisers here:DIPG Funding Alliance

🎧 Episode 14: The One Where No One Cares AnymoreIn this episode, Nick and Jarett sit down to explore a quiet truth behind endurance running—what happens when no one claps anymore? We talk about the drive for external validation, the shift in family dynamics after your tenth ultra, and the deeper reasons some runners keep signing up for longer, harder, more painful efforts. Is it self-growth? Is it escape? Or is it unresolved pain we haven’t fully faced? This isn’t a training episode. It’s a heart check. And maybe a little therapy session on the mic. 

The One Where We Walk Before We RunIn this episode, we sit down with Tyson Black—a laid-back, hard-working trail runner from Southeast Tennessee who just last year decided to stop making excuses and start walking. Fast forward a few months, and he’s knocking out 50Ks and 50 milers with oatmeal creme pies in hand (and sometimes on his face).We talk about what it’s like to go from walking to ultramarathons in under a year, how self-talk keeps him moving through the pain cave, and why most people underestimate the power of slow, steady, stubborn progress. Tyson gets real about juggling life, family, and the grind, and shares the mindset that’s helping him cross the entire state of Tennessee on foot.From ripped shirts at finish lines to UTMB dreams, this one’s full of grit, growth, and straight-up heart.

Mason Wright—aka The Buff Runner—is back on the podcast after doing the unthinkable: running 421 miles across the entire state of Utah. In this episode, we break down the run mile by mile, pain cave by pain cave, from the early injury scare to the final steps across state lines.Mason opens up about the mental game behind multi-day suffering, what surprised him most out there in the desert, and why he still thinks the best is yet to come. We talk fuel (spoiler: it’s not all clean eating), gear, the dark moments, the spiritual highs, and what it's like to carry momentum into planning a transcontinental run across the U.S.This is a deep dive into what it takes—not just to start something big—but to finish it.

The One Where We Get SweatyIn this episode, we sit down with Joseph Proctor, aka Apache Joe—a husband, father of three, and a former high school and college runner who took a 23-year detour through the chaos of mental health struggles before lacing up again. What brought him back? Nose breathing, miles in the dark, and something deeper that couldn’t be ignored.We dive into Joe’s raw and honest journey: the battle back to running, the rituals that ground him, and the philosophy behind doing hard things—sweaty things—with purpose. This is one of those conversations that’ll stick with you long after your run is over.Whether you're just getting started, burned out, or running toward something you can’t quite name, this one's for you. Listen in, get inspired, and remember: it's okay to get weird with it.🎧 Available wherever you get your podcasts.Visit The Ostrich Running Store:Ostrich Running StoreMake sure you contact Joe's wife Caitlin to see how she helped him with his nervous system reset. The link is below:Caitlin Proctor Nervous System HealingJames Nestor Book: Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art

Episode 10 – The One Where Everyone Wears HokasThis week, Nick and Jarett dive headfirst into one of the most lopsided questions in endurance sports: why are ultra runners broke while pro athletes in other sports cash seven-figure checks for playing less than three hours a week? We break down the OC Marathon results, highlight the early buzz around Cocodona 250, and explore whether increasing prize money and sponsorships would help or hurt the raw, community-driven soul of ultra running. Is more money the missing piece? Or would it turn mountain grit into a corporate circus?www.ostrichrunning.com

The One Where I Reflect: Is It the Finish Line or the March That Matters?escription:In Episode 9, Nick flies solo and dives deep into some of the biggest questions we face as runners — and as people.First, we reflect on our conversation with Dr. Jaimie Lusk about whether running truly heals us... or sometimes just hides the real work we need to do.Then, we explore the massive new partnership between Salomon and Warner Brothers Discovery and what it means for the future of trail running — from big media deals to mid-pack heroes.Finally, Nick takes a hard look at the age-old debate: Is it really about crossing the finish line, or is the journey itself what changes us? Featuring legendary running stories, personal reflections on training, parenthood, and the announcement of Nick's next 100-mile race.This episode is packed with heart, questions, and the kind of honesty you won't find in a highlight reel. Whether you're chasing a buckle or chasing a better version of yourself, this one's for you. Listen, reflect, and let's keep marching.

Episode 8: The One Where the Rat Inside Got QuietGuest: Dr. Jaimie Lusk, PsyDIn this episode, we dive into the deep end of what fuels us to run — and what we’re sometimes running from. Dr. Jaimie Lusk, a licensed psychologist and ultra-runner, joins us to explore the powerful intersection of trauma recovery, mental health, and endurance sports. We talk about how ultra-running can be a path to healing, a coping mechanism, or, in some cases, a way to avoid the very emotions we need to face. We unpack what it looks like when your drive is tied to past pain, how healing can shift your identity as a runner, and why self-worth shouldn’t be measured in podiums, PRs, or Strava segments. Whether you run to remember, to forget, or to feel something again — this one’s for you. Topics we cover:• How trauma shows up in running• When ultra becomes avoidance• Identity shifts during recovery• Healthy vs. unhealthy motivation👉 Follow, rate, and share if you’ve ever felt like the miles were carrying more than just your body.Dr. Jaimie Lusk SiteAwe- By Dacher KeltnerMans Search Meaning Viktor FranklTribe by Sebastian JungerTattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion Gregory Boyle

Episode 7 – Dante Liberato: 500 Miles, Psychedelics, and the Edge of Human Potential Ultra runner, psychonaut, and performance coach Dante Liberato joins us to unpack the layers behind his jaw-dropping 500-mile run — a journey that fuses endurance, trauma, recovery, and altered states of consciousness. We dig into:The mental preparation behind extreme distanceHow psychedelics became part of Dante's healing and performance toolkitThe spiritual side of sufferingWhat it means to come back from the edge — and choose to keep goingNick and Jarett explore how endurance athletes like Dante push past limits not just for the finish line, but for self-transformation. This one’s part therapy session, part ultra-fueled philosophy, and one you dont want to miss.Follow Dante:IG:@buffalowarriorGoFundMe: https://gofund.me/4cf9ceceCouch Milk: https://couchmilk.com/

In this episode, Nick and Jarett dive deep (and maybe too deep) into what makes the running community feel a little... culty. Nick opens up about how running became his outlet for chaos, and Jarett asks the real questions: When your life revolves around weekly mileage, hallucinating during ultras, and worshipping electrolytes — is that a sport, or are you in a robe chanting “PRs over everything”? This one’s raw, hilarious, and possibly a bit too honest. If you’ve ever looked at your Garmin and thought “this completes me,” you’re gonna feel seen.Ostrich Running

Episode 5 – The Buff Runner: Mason Wright on Breaking the Mold and Running with Purpose This week on The Ostrich Running Podcast, we’re joined by Mason Wright, better known as The Buff Runner—a powerlifting football player turned ultra athlete who’s rewriting the rules of endurance sports. Mason doesn’t fit the typical runner mold, and he doesn’t want to. From facing judgment in the community to finishing the grueling Whiskey Basin 60-miler, he’s been pushing back against expectations and leaning into the unorthodox. In this episode, we talk about:How Mason’s football and powerlifting background shaped his ultra mindsetWhy he hosted a 24-hour run to launch Project 3434, his mission to run across AmericaThe challenges of running at over 200 lbs—and how it’s become his superpowerHis 430 Mile Run Across UtahThe Single Parent ProjectMason’s story is raw, inspiring, and packed with hard-earned wisdom. If you've ever felt like you don't belong in the running world—this one's for you.Meet MasonThe Single Parent ProjectOstrich Running