The Ultra Crewed Podcast

*VIDEO Not for Apple listening We start with the kind of enormous race announcement only true professionals would lead with: Mid-State Mile has officially entered the water tote era. Yes, a 275-gallon tote. Yes, it required a country drive, cash, accessories, and somehow ice cream. This is event logistics, but with more emotional damage and Facebook Marketplace energy. Then we get into the real Mid-State Mile news: Harvey Lewis and Mark Dowdle are coming to town, and the field is getting spicy. We talk about what makes Mid-State different from a traditional backyard race, why the 20-minute loop changes everything, and why experience on this course matters more than whatever shiny resume somebody brings to the start line. Whistle to whistle, there is no room to hide, nap, scroll, or build a private little emotional support fortress. We also dig into Rachel’s monster Cocodona performance, the “women vs. men” hot-take fallout, downtime efficiency, sleep, electrolytes, and why “why not me?” might be the most dangerous and useful thought an ultra runner can carry into a race. Finally, Becca gets ready for Cruel Jewel, the race that has become part suffering ritual, part relationship scrapbook, and part annual trip into the mountains to see what still works. There’s also cave digging, because apparently ultra running wasn’t already enough of a cry for help. 

We start with the kind of enormous race announcement only true professionals would lead with: Mid-State Mile has officially entered the water tote era. Yes, a 275-gallon tote. Yes, it required a country drive, cash, accessories, and somehow ice cream. This is event logistics, but with more emotional damage and Facebook Marketplace energy. Then we get into the real Mid-State Mile news: Harvey Lewis and Mark Dowdle are coming to town, and the field is getting spicy. We talk about what makes Mid-State different from a traditional backyard race, why the 20-minute loop changes everything, and why experience on this course matters more than whatever shiny resume somebody brings to the start line. Whistle to whistle, there is no room to hide, nap, scroll, or build a private little emotional support fortress. We also dig into Rachel’s monster Cocodona performance, the “women vs. men” hot-take fallout, downtime efficiency, sleep, electrolytes, and why “why not me?” might be the most dangerous and useful thought an ultra runner can carry into a race. Finally, Becca gets ready for Cruel Jewel, the race that has become part suffering ritual, part relationship scrapbook, and part annual trip into the mountains to see what still works. There’s also cave digging, because apparently ultra running wasn’t already enough of a cry for help. 

*NOT for Apple ListeningJon and Becca kick things off with Home Depot parking lot tension, Walmart aisle rage, and the ongoing reality that some humans should not be released into public before coffee. From there, they dig into Mid-State Mile prep, arena upgrades, shaky foundations, training mistakes, overdrawn energy banks, and why your body may not care that your ego signed up for something stupid.They also get into women in backyard ultras, the problem with comparing yourself to everyone else’s “fancy house,” and why Mid-State is less about beating the field and more about finding out what kind of foundation you actually built.

Jon and Becca kick things off with Home Depot parking lot tension, Walmart aisle rage, and the ongoing reality that some humans should not be released into public before coffee. From there, they dig into Mid-State Mile prep, arena upgrades, shaky foundations, training mistakes, overdrawn energy banks, and why your body may not care that your ego signed up for something stupid.They also get into women in backyard ultras, the problem with comparing yourself to everyone else’s “fancy house,” and why Mid-State is less about beating the field and more about finding out what kind of foundation you actually built.

* Not for audio listeningJon and Becca sit down for a tired evening episode after a week of dead cars, derailed plans, and questionable productivity. They dig into post-race food expectations, the outrage of finishing after cutoff and still wanting a sandwich, Becca’s official stance against food trucks, and why eating a $20 cheeseburger beside bird poop is not the luxury experience society promised.They also talk Mid-State Mile buzz, fake gentleman haircut rules, crowded corrals, race identity, community growth, wait lists, stump removal, and the very real need for more porta potties. Naturally, this leads to the proposed Gold & Brown sponsorship tier, because ultra running is glamorous and definitely not held together by Fresca, duct tape, and portable toilets.

Jon and Becca sit down for a tired evening episode after a week of dead cars, derailed plans, and questionable productivity. They dig into post-race food expectations, the outrage of finishing after cutoff and still wanting a sandwich, Becca’s official stance against food trucks, and why eating a $20 cheeseburger beside bird poop is not the luxury experience society promised.They also talk Mid-State Mile buzz, fake gentleman haircut rules, crowded corrals, race identity, community growth, wait lists, stump removal, and the very real need for more porta potties. Naturally, this leads to the proposed Gold & Brown sponsorship tier, because ultra running is glamorous and definitely not held together by Fresca, duct tape, and portable toilets.

This is what happens when Jon and Becca sit down to discuss ultrarunning and immediately get distracted by beavers, groundhogs, AI, gender politics, bad race math, and the highly sensitive issue of proper Fresca placement in the fridge. Somewhere in there, they also share legitimately useful advice on Mid State training, crewing, downhill running, and backyard ultra standards. A real grab bag of trail wisdom and lovingly aired grievances.

Listen to what happens when Jon and Becca sit down to discuss ultrarunning and immediately get distracted by beavers, groundhogs, AI, gender politics, bad race math, and the highly sensitive issue of proper Fresca placement in the fridge. Somewhere in there, they also share legitimately useful advice on Mid-State training, crewing, downhill running, and backyard ultra standards. A real grab bag of trail wisdom and lovingly aired grievances.

This week we break down Snaketail, a trail race set on private land in Summertown, Tennessee, hosted at The Farm Community—a well-known hippie commune with decades of history and thousands of acres of protected land. The race exists to do more than just put on an event—it helps support the Swan Conservation Trust and their work preserving land across the Highland Rim. The weekend itself was a mix of chaos and purpose—accidentally gassing ourselves with wasp spray, arguing over outrageously expensive milk, and dealing with a drum circle that made sleep optional—but the race delivered where it counts. With distances from a 5K up to a 50-miler, it brought in first-time trail runners and experienced ultrarunners alike, including one guy who accidentally ran a half marathon and had to own it. The course looks runnable but slowly wears you down, and the entire event is built around community, access to land you normally wouldn’t see, and a bigger mission that goes beyond the finish line. It’s not trying to be the biggest race out there—but it is trying to make sure places like this still exist.

This week we break down Snaketail, a trail race set on private land in Summertown, Tennessee, hosted at The Farm Community—a well-known hippie commune with decades of history and thousands of acres of protected land. The race exists to do more than just put on an event—it helps support the Swan Conservation Trust and their work preserving land across the Highland Rim. The weekend itself was a mix of chaos and purpose—accidentally gassing ourselves with wasp spray, arguing over outrageously expensive milk, and dealing with a drum circle that made sleep optional—but the race delivered where it counts. With distances from a 5K up to a 50-miler, it brought in first-time trail runners and experienced ultrarunners alike, including one guy who accidentally ran a half marathon and had to own it. The course looks runnable but slowly wears you down, and the entire event is built around community, access to land you normally wouldn’t see, and a bigger mission that goes beyond the finish line. It’s not trying to be the biggest race out there—but it is trying to make sure places like this still exist.

This week we break down Snaketail, a trail race set on private land in Summertown, Tennessee, hosted at The Farm Community—a well-known hippie commune with decades of history and thousands of acres of protected land. The race exists to do more than just put on an event—it helps support the Swan Conservation Trust and their work preserving land across the Highland Rim. The weekend itself was a mix of chaos and purpose—accidentally gassing ourselves with wasp spray, arguing over outrageously expensive milk, and dealing with a drum circle that made sleep optional—but the race delivered where it counts. With distances from a 5K up to a 50-miler, it brought in first-time trail runners and experienced ultrarunners alike, including one guy who accidentally ran a half marathon and had to own it. The course looks runnable but slowly wears you down, and the entire event is built around community, access to land you normally wouldn’t see, and a bigger mission that goes beyond the finish line. It’s not trying to be the biggest race out there—but it is trying to make sure places like this still exist, which is something most races can’t say.

* Not for Apple listeningIn this episode, we take you inside Big Al’s 100 & 200—a race that doesn’t feel like a race at all. It’s five days of living in an aid station, running a brutal two-mile loop stacked with relentless climbs, unpredictable weather, and zero places to hide.We break down what makes this event different—and why it might be one of the hardest, most honest challenges in ultra running.From first-timers who underestimated the course… to seasoned runners forced to adapt, slow down, and rethink everything… to unforgettable performances like April becoming only the third-ever 200-mile finisher—and the first female finisher of the 200… and Chet’s gritty, hard-earned 100—this episode is about more than miles.It’s about what happens when things don’t go to plan, when you’re forced to adjust just to keep moving, and when finishing requires more than just fitness—it takes patience, humility, and relentless forward progress.

In this episode, we take you inside Big Al’s 100 & 200—a race that doesn’t feel like a race at all. It’s five days of living in an aid station, running a brutal two-mile loop stacked with relentless climbs, unpredictable weather, and zero places to hide.We break down what makes this event different—and why it might be one of the hardest, most honest challenges in ultra running.From first-timers who underestimated the course… to seasoned runners forced to adapt, slow down, and rethink everything… to unforgettable performances like April becoming only the third-ever 200-mile finisher—and the first female finisher of the 200… and Chet’s gritty, hard-earned 100—this episode is about more than miles.It’s about what happens when things don’t go to plan, when you’re forced to adjust just to keep moving, and when finishing requires more than just fitness—it takes patience, humility, and relentless forward progress.

* Not for audio listeningOf course. Same thing, just now with a little personality so people don’t feel like they’re being scolded by a disappointed gym teacher.You can’t out-train a messy life. This episode gets into the stuff people don’t want to hear—how your habits, mindset, and personal growth (or lack of it) show up when things get hard in a race. You can follow the perfect training plan, hit all your miles, and still fall apart the moment things stop going your way, because training doesn’t magically fix inconsistency, avoidance, or your ability to panic the second something feels uncomfortable.When the race gets tough—and it always does—you don’t rise to the level of your fitness, you fall back on your patterns. The way you cut corners, the way you deal with stress, the way you talk to yourself… all of that shows up whether you invited it or not. It’s like bringing your entire personality to the start line and hoping no one notices. Spoiler: the race notices.If you keep blowing up mid-race, it’s probably not just bad luck or that one gel you ate at mile 17. It might be worth asking if there’s something deeper going on. Because at some point, the race stops being about running and starts exposing everything else—and unfortunately, you can’t blame that on your shoes.

You can’t out-train a messy life. This episode gets into the stuff people don’t want to hear—how your habits, mindset, and personal growth (or lack of it) show up when things get hard in a race. You can follow the perfect training plan, hit all your miles, and still fall apart the moment things stop going your way, because training doesn’t magically fix inconsistency, avoidance, or your ability to panic the second something feels uncomfortable.When the race gets tough—and it always does—you don’t rise to the level of your fitness, you fall back on your patterns. The way you cut corners, the way you deal with stress, the way you talk to yourself… all of that shows up whether you invited it or not. It’s like bringing your entire personality to the start line and hoping no one notices. Spoiler: the race notices.If you keep blowing up mid-race, it’s probably not just bad luck or that one gel you ate at mile 17. It might be worth asking if there’s something deeper going on. Because at some point, the race stops being about running and starts exposing everything else—and unfortunately, you can’t blame that on your shoes.

* Not for Apple or Spotify listeningThis week we talk about what it really looks like getting the property ready for Big Al’s and Snaketail. Trails buried in storm debris, dragging piles of limbs off the hills, a tractor deciding to break right when we needed it most, and Jon getting into a philosophical disagreement with an ACE Hardware employee about chainsaw chains.In between the chainsaws and brush piles, we get into something we care a lot about — the kind of people we want showing up at races like Mid State. Résumés and race results are one thing, but character, community, and how you treat the people beside you on the trail matter a whole lot more.Also covered: snakes in the yard, why big jobs only get done one bite at a time, and the kind of friends who show up with excavators when you really need them.

In this episode, we set out to talk about ultra running… and immediately don’t.Instead, we get into where we’ve been mentally lately—which is somewhere between “functioning adult” and “staring into the void but still mowing the yard.” Turns out you can have everything technically fine and still feel completely off. Love that for us.We also discover that a broken chainsaw is basically the perfect metaphor for training. It worked great… until it absolutely didn’t. And that’s kind of how we approach running too—ignore the small problems, hope for the best, and then act surprised when everything falls apart on race day.We talk about the classic ultrarunner mistakes: repeating the same bad training, pretending nutrition doesn’t matter, and blaming the race instead of admitting we might be the problem. (We said might. Relax.)Somewhere in there, we also spiral into the mental side of things—how easy it is to get stuck in your own head, convince yourself you’re the only one suffering, and forget that literally everyone else is also tired, hot, and questioning their life choices.

This week we talk about what it really looks like getting the property ready for Big Al’s and Snaketail. Trails buried in storm debris, dragging piles of limbs off the hills, a tractor deciding to break right when we needed it most, and Jon getting into a philosophical disagreement with an ACE Hardware employee about chainsaw chains.In between the chainsaws and brush piles, we get into something we care a lot about — the kind of people we want showing up at races like Mid State. Résumés and race results are one thing, but character, community, and how you treat the people beside you on the trail matter a whole lot more.Also covered: snakes in the yard, why big jobs only get done one bite at a time, and the kind of friends who show up with excavators when you really need them.

* not for listening on AppleIn this episode Jon and I are back with a new setup, strong coffee, and absolutely no shortage of opinions. We talk Music City Trail Ultra, questionable aid station pickle etiquette, a brand we’re genuinely obsessed with, and some of the wildest recent chaos in the running world—from wrong turns and race drama to medals, integrity, and the real risks people love to ignore.It’s a little ridiculous, and somehow includes pubic hair and pickle jars.

In this episode Jon and I are back with a new setup, strong coffee, and absolutely no shortage of opinions. We talk Music City Trail Ultra, questionable aid station pickle etiquette, a brand we’re genuinely obsessed with, and some of the wildest recent chaos in the running world—from wrong turns and race drama to medals, integrity, and the real risks people love to ignore.It’s a little ridiculous, and somehow includes pubic hair and pickle jars.

This week: we officially got moved. Not “we’re almost there.” Not “we’re transitioning.” Fully moved. Living at the farm. Yes, the one affectionately (or concerningly) nicknamed Murder Mile. Which sounds like a true crime podcast but is actually just… our address now.We’re talking about what it feels like when a place stops being an idea and becomes your real, everyday life. The mental shift. The quiet shift. The “oh, this is permanent” shift.We get into the two-hour raw milk drive — because apparently this is who we are now. People who will commit two hours round trip for dairy. Is it about the milk? Is it about the ritual? Is it about needing a reason to leave the property and remember civilization exists? We unpack it.There’s running. There’s long stretches of thinking. There’s that strange recalibration that happens when life slows down but your brain doesn’t immediately get the memo. What feels different. What feels the same. What feels slightly unhinged but in a growth-oriented way.It’s about choosing a life on purpose. Even when it’s inconvenient. Even when it’s far. Even when your GPS looks concerned.Press play if you’ve ever committed to something big and then had to sit with the reality of it.

This week we’re recording our final episode from the original Murder Miles studio — don’t panic, we’re not leaving Nashville, we’re just relocating operations like slightly more organized feral adults. What starts as a sentimental moment about neighborhood miles and familiar running routes quickly devolves into chainsaw talk, masculinity rants, gluten grievances, and a full-blown debate about whether elite runners should be allowed pacers or just be big kids and carry their own stuff. We get into the 100-mile record drama, integrity in the sport, Golden Ticket nonsense, and whether ultra running is getting a little too shiny for its own good. Somewhere between nostalgia and near-argument, we question the future of the sport, roast each other, and remind ourselves why we love doing hard things in the first place. It’s chaotic, mildly unhinged, occasionally controversial, and exactly what happens when you give two ultra runners microphones and zero supervision. Same city. New setup. Same reckless opinions.

* (video) Not for Apple or Spotify listeningThis week we’re recording our final episode from the original Murder Miles studio — don’t panic, we’re not leaving Nashville, we’re just relocating operations like slightly more organized feral adults. What starts as a sentimental moment about neighborhood miles and familiar running routes quickly devolves into chainsaw talk, masculinity rants, gluten grievances, and a full-blown debate about whether elite runners should be allowed pacers or just be big kids and carry their own stuff. We get into the 100-mile record drama, integrity in the sport, Golden Ticket nonsense, and whether ultra running is getting a little too shiny for its own good. Somewhere between nostalgia and near-argument, we question the future of the sport, roast each other, and remind ourselves why we love doing hard things in the first place. It’s chaotic, mildly unhinged, occasionally controversial, and exactly what happens when you give two ultra runners microphones and zero supervision. Same city. New setup. Same reckless opinions.

* video and not suitable for listeningOne year into the Ultra Crewed Podcast (which we completely forgot to celebrate because of course we did), this Sunday night episode spirals through Daytona engines, fallen trees on the farm, relationship stress-tests disguised as furniture assembly, and the brutal reality of the Barkley Marathons—where nobody finished and that’s kind of the point. We get honest about chasing validation, why “harder” doesn’t always mean “better,” and how social media has convinced runners they need to go longer, suffer louder, and inspire harder just to matter. Somewhere between rebuilding a chainsaw and arguing about wet socks at mile 38, we land on the lesson that actually counts: stop worrying about what you can’t control and solve the problem in front of you. This one’s about failure, ego, resilience, choosing each other, and understanding that not everything epic is meant for you—and that might be the most freeing thing you hear all week. Press play if you’re tired of pretending you’ve got it all figured out.

One year into the Ultra Crewed Podcast (which we completely forgot to celebrate because of course we did), this Sunday night episode spirals through Daytona engines, fallen trees on the farm, relationship stress-tests disguised as furniture assembly, and the brutal reality of the Barkley Marathons—where nobody finished and that’s kind of the point. We get honest about chasing validation, why “harder” doesn’t always mean “better,” and how social media has convinced runners they need to go longer, suffer louder, and inspire harder just to matter. Somewhere between rebuilding a chainsaw and arguing about wet socks at mile 38, we land on the lesson that actually counts: stop worrying about what you can’t control and solve the problem in front of you. This one’s about failure, ego, resilience, choosing each other, and understanding that not everything epic is meant for you—and that might be the most freeing thing you hear all week. Press play if you’re tired of pretending you’ve got it all figured out.

* video not for Apple or Spotify listening Becca Jones and Jon are back, broadcasting from the chaos command center known as Murder Mile Studio. This week, we’re talking about the slippery slope of sacrificing tomorrow’s potential for today’s pride. Whether that’s overtraining at the Black Toe Ultra, running through actual lung pain, or committing to a weekly raw milk pickup like it’s a damn ultramarathon. From butter bartering and Fresca diplomacy to the cult of the pain cave, this one’s got everything. Warning: You might end this episode questioning your relationship with dairy, discomfort, and your own decision-making process. Don’t worry we question all of yours, too.

Becca Jones and Jon are back, broadcasting from the chaos command center known as Murder Mile Studio. This week, we’re talking about the slippery slope of sacrificing tomorrow’s potential for today’s pride. Whether that’s overtraining at the Black Toe Ultra, running through actual lung pain, or committing to a weekly raw milk pickup like it’s a damn ultramarathon. From butter bartering and Fresca diplomacy to the cult of the pain cave, this one’s got everything. Warning: You might end this episode questioning your relationship with dairy, discomfort, and your own decision-making process. Don’t worry we question all of yours, too.

* video - Not for Apple or Spotify listeningWhat happens when two ultra runners try to move, renovate a house, run a business, and still show up for each other without completely losing it? You get this episode.This week we get honest about what it really takes to build a life together—on and off the trails. We talk about being equally yoked (and what that actually means in real life), the myth of "doing it all," and how saying yes to the wrong job at 15 could’ve changed everything. There’s some rage, some gratitude, some laughter, and a wood chipper wish list.Also: dogs off leash, coyotes in public parks, hydrogen water that may or may not be science, and a strong case for Fresca as a lifestyle.If you've ever felt overwhelmed, under appreciated, or just plain tired—this one's for you. It’s raw, real, and full of dirt under the fingernails. Hit play. Let’s go.

What happens when two ultra runners try to move, renovate a house, run a business, and still show up for each other without completely losing it? You get this episode.This week we get honest about what it really takes to build a life together—on and off the trails. We talk about being equally yoked (and what that actually means in real life), the myth of "doing it all," and how saying yes to the wrong job at 15 could’ve changed everything. There’s some rage, some gratitude, some laughter, and a wood chipper wish list.Also: dogs off leash, coyotes in public parks, hydrogen water that may or may not be science, and a strong case for Fresca as a lifestyle.If you've ever felt overwhelmed, under appreciated, or just plain tired—this one's for you. It’s raw, real, and full of dirt under the fingernails. Hit play. Let’s go.

This week, things got... real. Like, power-outage-tree-across-the-road-hope-is-flickering real. We talk through how we navigated the unexpected ice storm that knocked out power across Nashville, how it exposed just how prepared (or not) we really were, and why mindset matters way more than how many AA batteries you can cram in a buggy at Home Depot.From scrambling for firewood and testing a fireplace for the first time in five years, to watching neighbors bail out in the middle of the night, this was a crash course in staying calm, adjusting plans, and not letting panic drive the car (literally).We get into how ultra running teaches us to assess, adapt, and survive—not just on the trail, but when life throws ice at your power lines. We talk about what happens when the plan falls apart, why preparedness isn’t selfish, and how having someone to lean on makes the difference. Also, one of us might have wandered into the street to investigate a suspicious light because, obviously, that’s who we are.Come for the chaos, stay for the reflection. And maybe check your emergency kit, y’all. The storms are coming—are you ready?

Jon celebrates a long awaited milestone: new pants. Unfortunately, they’re loud enough to ruin any chance of sneaking through the house, and somehow spark a full blown color theory debate that turns into relationship counseling for your living room decor. Meanwhile, Becca’s dealing with a brutal tailbone injury that has her sidelined from running and learning way more about “pressure relief” than anyone asked for.From there, the chaos gets productive. We hit listener questions, including the most important one of all: favorite soup. Then we talk Nashville’s snow forecast, why local weather can’t commit to anything, and whether it’s better to be stuck in a winter wonderland or stuck with an ice storm and no power.The big conversation, though, is about what happens when you stop chasing race calendars and start chasing the “boring work” that actually changes your life. We dig into social media, buckles, dopamine, authenticity, and why the quiet consistency matters more than the highlight reel.We wrap with a Mid-State Mile question about who’s showing up this year, plus a reminder that Mid-State isn’t about one name, it’s about the whole community and the magic that happens out there every single year.

* Not for audio listeningJon celebrates a long awaited milestone: new pants. Unfortunately, they’re loud enough to ruin any chance of sneaking through the house, and somehow spark a full blown color theory debate that turns into relationship counseling for your living room decor. Meanwhile, Becca’s dealing with a brutal tailbone injury that has her sidelined from running and learning way more about “pressure relief” than anyone asked for.From there, the chaos gets productive. We hit listener questions, including the most important one of all: favorite soup. Then we talk Nashville’s snow forecast, why local weather can’t commit to anything, and whether it’s better to be stuck in a winter wonderland or stuck with an ice storm and no power.The big conversation, though, is about what happens when you stop chasing race calendars and start chasing the “boring work” that actually changes your life. We dig into social media, buckles, dopamine, authenticity, and why the quiet consistency matters more than the highlight reel.We wrap with a Mid-State Mile question about who’s showing up this year, plus a reminder that Mid-State isn’t about one name, it’s about the whole community and the magic that happens out there every single year.

We’re back at Falcon’s Nest talking snow, family chaos, and what it really means to do hard things. From crawling through tight caves to navigating life when there is no obvious way forward, this episode is all about finding the right people to guide you when things get uncomfortable.We get into mentors, trust, learning as you go, and why having someone who can see the next step for you matters more than being the best in the room.

* video and not ideal for Apple listeningWe’re back at Falcon’s Nest talking snow, family chaos, and what it really means to do hard things. From crawling through tight caves to navigating life when there is no obvious way forward, this episode is all about finding the right people to guide you when things get uncomfortable.We get into mentors, trust, learning as you go, and why having someone who can see the next step for you matters more than being the best in the room.

Kicking off 2026 with real talk about why they don’t believe in resolutions, why comparison and “motivation culture” miss the mark, and what actually creates change when a calendar flips.Becca shares a recent solo scramble in search of a cave that turns into a lesson on risk, confidence, and knowing when to pull back. Jon reflects on the mental shifts that come with a new year, letting go of anger, protecting energy, and realizing that not everyone wants the truth, even when it’s well intentioned.Then it’s Mid-State Mile season. Registration opened on New Year’s Day, the race is already sold out, invites are rolling, and they break down what makes Mid-State different and the selection process, the returning community, the first-timers jumping in with zero ultras, and why this course is relentless from the first whistle. Mid-State isn’t just mind vs body ...it’s heart.

Kicking off 2026 with real talk about why they don’t believe in resolutions, why comparison and “motivation culture” miss the mark, and what actually creates change when a calendar flips.Becca shares a recent solo scramble in search of a cave that turns into a lesson on risk, confidence, and knowing when to pull back. Jon reflects on the mental shifts that come with a new year, letting go of anger, protecting energy, and realizing that not everyone wants the truth, even when it’s well intentioned.Then it’s Mid-State Mile season. Registration opened on New Year’s Day, the race is already sold out, invites are rolling, and they break down what makes Mid-State different and the selection process, the returning community, the first-timers jumping in with zero ultras, and why this course is relentless from the first whistle. Mid-State isn’t just mind vs body ...it’s heart.

Becca and Jon drag themselves to the mic while both feeling wrecked—Jon’s coming off a brutal stomach bug, Becca’s battling sinus junk.They dig into the difference between side quests vs. the main quest—how distractions, limbo, and unfinished projects can make it feel like nothing is moving forward. Becca lays out her mindset for 2026: forward with intention, getting strength training and running back at the forefront, and creating a clearer plan for life and work as they prepare for big changes on the farm.The episode wraps with Mid-State season officially kicking off: Mid-State Mile registration opens January 1 at noon Central, plus a quick reminder of why Mid-State isn’t built for hype—it’s built for the runners who really want it.

*VIDEO - not suitable for audio listeningBecca and Jon drag themselves to the mic while both feeling wrecked—Jon’s coming off a brutal stomach bug, Becca’s battling sinus junk.They dig into the difference between side quests vs. the main quest—how distractions, limbo, and unfinished projects can make it feel like nothing is moving forward. Becca lays out her mindset for 2026: forward with intention, getting strength training and running back at the forefront, and creating a clearer plan for life and work as they prepare for big changes on the farm.The episode wraps with Mid-State season officially kicking off: Mid-State Mile registration opens January 1 at noon Central, plus a quick reminder of why Mid-State isn’t built for hype—it’s built for the runners who really want it.

Becca and Jon talk about how Christmas feels different as you get older—more logistics, more stress, and a lot more emotional weight. Jon shares a frustrating car saga after an oil change turns into repeated leaks and unexpected expenses, sparking a real conversation about the difference between gratitude and forced positivity.Becca recaps an 11-hour caving trip and what it taught her about trusting herself in unfamiliar environments, building confidence through discomfort, and using “transferable skills” from running to handle new challenges. The episode closes with reflections on the year—why the most meaningful moments are rarely planned, how growth takes time (like trees finally bearing fruit), and why being present matters more than chasing one big “highlight” moment.Merry Christmas from Becca and Jon—thanks for listening.

In this episode, Becca and Jon talk openly about something most people never see: what happens to race directors after the runners go home. They break down the emotional crash that can hit once an event wraps up—the exhaustion, the silence, and that weird mix of pride and loneliness that shows up when you’re the one packing up the course.They share what the post-race blues actually feel like, why directing can be both rewarding and isolating, and how community plays a bigger role than anyone realizes. They also talk about the Tennessee Mile leading into the Mid State Mile, how the runner community keeps them going, and why support after an event matters just as much as race-day hype.It’s a real, honest conversation about the highs, the lows, and the part of race directing that rarely gets talked about and more.

Huge shoutout and Thank you to our friend and sponsor Joshua Brandt of State Farm insurance. Team Nashvillle,Naak and Mount to CoastIn this episode of the Ultra-Crewed Podcast, hosts Jon Cox and Becca Jones pull back the curtain on race week at the Tennessee Mile—sharing the chaos, the cold, the community, and the countless moving pieces that make this event unlike any other.From laughing about missed podcast episodes (thanks, race-week brain!) to admitting how exhaustion sneaks up on even the most seasoned endurance athletes, Jon and Becca keep it real about what life looks like behind the scenes. Becca talks about battling sleep while juggling race prep, and Jon shares how they tag-teamed the week’s curveballs—including a broken heater—just to keep everything running smoothly.The pair revisit this year’s Tennessee Mile experience: 33-degree temps, over 160 runners, and a record wave of first-timers who showed up ready to push themselves and support each other. With no headphones allowed, conversations flowed, friendships formed, and the sense of family that defines this race was stronger than ever.Throughout the episode, they highlight the deeper theme woven through the weekend: community matters. Whether it’s runners cheering for strangers on the course or volunteers stepping up when challenges hit, the Tennessee Mile continues to grow because people show up for each other.Jon and Becca close with reflections on how far the event has come and the pride they feel watching this community thrive.

*VIDEO - not suitable for audio listeningHuge shoutout and Thank you to our friend and sponsor Joshua Brandt of State Farm insurance. Team Nashvillle,Naak and Mount to CoastIn this episode of the Ultra-Crewed Podcast, hosts Jon Cox and Becca Jones pull back the curtain on race week at the Tennessee Mile—sharing the chaos, the cold, the community, and the countless moving pieces that make this event unlike any other.From laughing about missed podcast episodes (thanks, race-week brain!) to admitting how exhaustion sneaks up on even the most seasoned endurance athletes, Jon and Becca keep it real about what life looks like behind the scenes. Becca talks about battling sleep while juggling race prep, and Jon shares how they tag-teamed the week’s curveballs—including a broken heater—just to keep everything running smoothly.The pair revisit this year’s Tennessee Mile experience: 33-degree temps, over 160 runners, and a record wave of first-timers who showed up ready to push themselves and support each other. With no headphones allowed, conversations flowed, friendships formed, and the sense of family that defines this race was stronger than ever.Throughout the episode, they highlight the deeper theme woven through the weekend: community matters. Whether it’s runners cheering for strangers on the course or volunteers stepping up when challenges hit, the Tennessee Mile continues to grow because people show up for each other.Jon and Becca close with reflections on how far the event has come and the pride they feel watching this community thrive.

We explore the mental gymnastics of adjusting race-day goals, the psychological tug-of-war that happens when plans go sideways, and the quiet power of choosing gratitude over frustration. With the Tennessee Mile looming, they dish out cold-weather strategies, headlamp essentials, and hard-won advice on how to thrive in the dark—literally and figuratively. Whether you're a seasoned ultra runner or just here for the stories, this episode reminds us that the road (or trail) to success is rarely straight, and the best runs often begin when the plan falls apart.

* Not for Apple audio listening We explore the mental gymnastics of adjusting race-day goals, the psychological tug-of-war that happens when plans go sideways, and the quiet power of choosing gratitude over frustration. With the Tennessee Mile looming, they dish out cold-weather strategies, headlamp essentials, and hard-won advice on how to thrive in the dark—literally and figuratively. Whether you're a seasoned ultra runner or just here for the stories, this episode reminds us that the road (or trail) to success is rarely straight, and the best runs often begin when the plan falls apart.

Today we talk about Thanksgiving Day plans and the upcoming Tennessee Mile and race day success.

* video - NOT for Apple listening.Today we talk about Thanksgiving Day plans and the upcoming Tennessee Mile and race day success.

Have you ever felt a rush of nerves before a big event? You’re not alone! This week on the podcast, we explore the mix of excitement and anxiety that comes with stepping into the unknown. These emotions are not just normal; they can lead to incredible moments and personal breakthroughs! We also dive into nutrition and the basics of fueling your ultra.

Have you ever felt a rush of nerves before a big event? You’re not alone! This week on the podcast, we explore the mix of excitement and anxiety that comes with stepping into the unknown. These emotions are not just normal; they can lead to incredible moments and personal breakthroughs! We also dive into nutrition and the basics of fueling your ultra.

In this episode, we share some recent trail experiences—including Jon’s backpacking trip on the AT and Becca’s attempt at cowboy camping. We also talk a bit about being in nature, what it’s been teaching us lately, and what’s ahead as we get ready to host the Tennessee Mile.

* Video audio is not suitable for listening. In this episode, we share some recent trail experiences—including Jon’s backpacking trip on the AT and Becca’s attempt at cowboy camping. We also talk a bit about being in nature, what it’s been teaching us lately, and what’s ahead as we get ready to host the Tennessee Mile.