Everyday Ultra

A 200-mile race is a different beast, and getting to the finish line takes a lot more than just being fit. In this episode, Kirk and Ben break down what it really takes to prepare for and execute a successful 200-miler. From building durability in training to making smart decisions when things don’t go to plan, this conversation is packed with lessons you can take into your next ultra. In this episode you'll learn: Why durability matters more than raw speed How to structure training camps without sacrificing recovery The race-day logistics that can make or break your finish How to get the most out of your crew, drop bags, and gear The overlooked strategies that help you keep moving when the miles get tough SHOW LINKS: Want to be coached by me and my team to crush your next ultramarathon in our 1:1 coaching program?⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a free call…

There comes a point in nearly every ultramarathon where your mind starts telling you to quit. Your legs are destroyed, you're exhausted, and the thought of how many miles you have left feels absolutely overwhelming. But what if you could train your mind to push through those moments, no matter how difficult things get? In this episode, I'm sharing five powerful mental strategies that have helped me overcome some of the lowest moments in my ultrarunning career, and that we've used to help athletes at Everyday Ultra build the resilience to push through their toughest challenges. In this episode, you'll learn: How to mentally prepare for the hardest moments of an ultramarathon before they even happen How to overcome negative thoughts when your mind is telling you to quit How to build unshakable self-belief and confidence as an ultrarunner A simple mental strategy that makes even the longest ultramarathons feel more manageable Lessons from my darkest moments at Badwater 135, Tahoe 200, and Cocodona 250 Why your…

Hans Troyer joins us on the Everyday Ultra Podcast after an incredible year that includes a Black Canyon 100K course record and a third-place finish at CCC. But this conversation goes far beyond race results. Hans opens up about bouncing back from a devastating DNF, learning to race unfamiliar terrain, finding the balance between aggression and patience, and staying hungry without losing sight of why he runs in the first place. You'll learn: • How to turn a painful race into momentum • Why being a student of the sport can change your racing • Finding the line between pushing hard and staying controlled • The role fueling plays in sustaining high effort • Why consistency beats constantly reinventing your training • Building confidence without losing humility • Staying motivated when progress gets uncomfortable • How to keep improving without losing the joy of running SHOW LINKS: Want to be coached by me and my team to crush your next ultramarathon in our 1:1 coaching…

Emma Lawson went from completing the Pacific Crest Trail to discovering a love for ultrarunning—and just days before this conversation, she finished her first 50K. In this episode, Emma shares how through hiking shaped her endurance mindset, how she rebuilt her training after injury, and what she learned from taking on her first ultra at Mammoth Trailfest. You’ll learn: • How through hiking can build endurance and problem-solving skills • Why strength training became a game-changer for Emma’s 50K preparation • How to practice fueling before race day • What to do when a low point hits during an ultra • How community can shape your mindset and confidence • Why choosing races for the experience can make training more meaningful SHOW LINKS: Want to be coached by me and my team to crush your next ultramarathon in our 1:1 coaching program?⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a free call…

Balancing ultrarunning with family life isn't easy. Between demanding training schedules, parenting, work, and relationships, finding time to pursue your goals can feel impossible. But what if you didn't have to choose between being a dedicated ultrarunner and being present for your family? In this coaches roundtable episode, Carolyn and Christian discuss how they've navigated ultrarunning while raising children and maintaining relationships. They share practical strategies, personal experiences, and lessons on making training work around real life. You'll learn: ​How to build consistency when family responsibilities take priority ​Why flexibility can make or break your training ​Which workouts to prioritize when time is limited ​How to plan races around your family's schedule ​When a treadmill can make all the difference ​How to balance ambitious goals with being present for your loved ones SHOW LINKS: Want to be coached by me and my team to crush your next ultramarathon in our 1:1 coaching…

Matt Zupan has built an ultrarunning career around doing a little bit of everything—from massive mountain linkups to some of the most competitive 100-mile races in the country. But his biggest lessons may have come from the races and training blocks that didn’t go according to plan. Matt gets candid about failure, ego, pacing, expectations, and the mindset shift that helped him show up to Leadville with almost everything working against him. His story is a reminder that a messy training block doesn’t automatically mean a bad race and sometimes the biggest breakthrough comes from letting go of what you thought race day had to look like. You’ll learn: •Why failed attempts can become some of your most valuable training •How to approach a race when your training block falls apart •Why controlling expectations can completely change race day •What mountains can teach you about handling the low points of an ultra •How to balance performance goals with the experiences that keep you motivated SHOW LINKS: Want to be…

McKendree Hickory’s 2026 Leadville 100 win wasn’t just about being tough enough to run 100 miles. It was about mindset, identity, knowing when to push, knowing when to back off, and learning how to stay objective when your brain starts telling you a different story. She also gets into what it actually looks like to train at a high level while working a full-time job, why genuinely easy running matters, and why confidence might not be the best thing to chase when you're doing something you've never done before. You’ll learn: • How to build a more resilient identity around running • Why the story you tell yourself can change how you perform • How to interrupt negative thinking when an ultra gets hard • Why conviction can matter more than confidence • How to build confidence through smaller, repeatable wins • What genuinely easy running can look and feel like • How to prioritize training when you have a full-time job • Why consistency may matter more than chasing every training “hack” • How to keep showing up…

What does it actually take to keep moving when you’re completely on your own? Allison Powell unpacks her experience completing an unsupported Tahoe to Yosemite FKT, the mental preparation that helped her navigate three days alone, and the behind-the-scenes work that went into Rewritten, the documentary following Jeff Garmire's Appalachian Trail FKT. This conversation goes far beyond big-mile accomplishments. Allison shares practical lessons on decision-making under fatigue, preparing for the unknown, nutrition and logistics, and approaching difficult efforts with a growth mindset. You’ll learn: ​How to prepare mentally for the moments when your decision-making starts to deteriorate ​Why creating decision trees before a race can preserve valuable mental bandwidth ​How to break intimidating distances into manageable pieces ​What unsupported efforts can teach you about preparation and self-reliance ​How to turn mistakes and unexpected challenges into future advantages ​Why giving yourself room to grow may be…

Running farther than you ever have isn’t just about adding more miles. When the distance gets into unfamiliar territory, your training, pacing, fueling, mindset, and ability to manage the hard moments all start to matter in different ways. In this episode, we break down what it actually takes to safely and successfully tackle a distance you’ve never run before without letting the excitement of a big goal turn into a disaster. Whether you’re training for your first ultra or pushing toward a distance that scares you a little, these lessons can help you approach big mileage with more confidence and a better strategy. You’ll learn: • How to prepare your body for unfamiliar distances • Why pacing becomes even more important as the miles pile up • The fueling mistakes that can derail a long run • How to recognize when to push and when to back off • The mental skills that help you keep moving when things get hard • What changes when you go farther than you’ve ever gone before SHOW LINKS: Want to be coached by me…

Kareem Afzal’s journey to the Leadville 100 is anything but ordinary. After a life-threatening illness, major lifestyle changes, years of endurance racing, and multiple failed attempts at 100 miles, Kareem finally found the combination of training, mindset, recovery, and support that changed everything. In this episode, Kareem breaks down what he learned from working with a coach, why more mileage isn’t always better, how speed work transformed his ultrarunning. His story is a reminder that becoming a better ultrarunner isn’t just about getting fitter—it’s about learning, adapting, and being willing to do things differently. In this episode we deep dive on: ​ Why recovery can unlock fitness you didn’t know you had• How speed work can make you a stronger ultrarunner• What Kareem learned from multiple 100-mile attempts• How to use your crew when your brain stops cooperating• The mental strategy that helped him survive Leadville’s toughest moments• Why breaking an ultra into smaller segments can change…

Ashley Paulson has built an extraordinary career in ultra running, pushing the limits of what’s possible while chasing world records and learning exactly what it takes to perform at the highest level. In this episode, Ashley breaks down the training, recovery, and mindset principles behind her approach to extreme endurance—and how everyday ultra runners can apply those lessons to become stronger, smarter, and more resilient. • How Ashley approaches training when the goal is to perform at an elite level • The recovery principles that can make the difference between adapting and breaking down • How to build a mindset capable of handling extreme physical and mental demands • What ultra runners can learn from training specifically for record-level performance • How to approach consistency, discipline, and pushing your limits without losing sight of the bigger picture SHOW LINKS: Want to be coached by me and my team to crush your next ultramarathon in our 1:1 coaching…

Phil Gore knows what it takes to push the limits of the backyard ultra. As the official Backyard Ultra World Record holder, Phil has spent years learning how to manage his body, mindset, pacing, sleep, and crew through extreme endurance efforts. In this episode, he breaks down what he’s learned from going deeper than almost anyone else in the sport—and how those lessons can make you a smarter, stronger, and more resilient ultrarunner. From pacing strategies and adapting your plan mid-race to handling the mental battles that come when your brain tells you to stop, Phil shares the principles behind his approach to going farther. In this episode, you’ll learn: ​Why slowing down can be the key to going farther ​How to build a race plan that still allows flexibility ​The role your crew can play when fatigue takes over ​How to handle the mental urge to quit Why focusing on one lap at a time can change your entire race ​What Phil believes first-time backyard runners should avoid ​How extreme endurance efforts are…

Finished your last ultra and wondering what’s next? Maybe you feel like you’re supposed to go farther. Run faster. Tackle a harder course. Chase a bigger race. But the truth? Your next ultramarathon shouldn’t be based on what you think you’re supposed to do. It should be based on what will actually help you progress, excite you, and make the training process worth it. In this episode, I break down the exact process I use for myself and with athletes to choose the right next race—and why picking the race first can actually be the wrong approach. We cover: How to decide whether you should go farther, get faster, or try something completely new Why progression matters more than simply increasing distance The question you need to ask before committing to months of training How to know if you actually have enough time to prepare for your goal How your work, life, and personal schedule should influence your race calendar How to build a race schedule that keeps you excited about ultrarunning for years to come SHOW…

Ultra running has a funny way of exposing the difference between what you think makes you better and what actually does. Tommy Lewis gets into the less obvious parts of becoming a better ultra runner—from building confidence before you feel ready, to understanding your limits, staying healthy enough to keep doing this for years, and knowing when your obsession with improvement has gone too far. Tommy opens up about his own evolution as a runner, including the lessons that came from years of injuries, and difficult races. In this episode you'll learn: • Why confidence is built through action—not waiting until you feel ready • How to recognize when you’re doing too much • What your watch might be telling you that you don’t actually need to know • The overlooked skill that can make a huge difference late in an ultra • How to approach training with the long game in mind • What “Run the Runnable” actually looks like in practice • Why becoming a better runner might have less to do with running SHOW LINKS Want to…

What does it take to go from running your first marathon to lining up for your first 100K—and actually racing at the front of your age group? From committing to a demanding 22-week training block to learning how to embrace uncomfortable conditions, Trent shares the habits and mentality that helped him make the leap into the ultra world. His approach shows that big breakthroughs aren't usually about one huge effort—they're built through the small decisions you make consistently when nobody is watching. If you want to become a better ultra runner, this episode will give you plenty to think about. You’ll learn: ​How to prepare for a distance that feels completely out of your comfort zone ​Why consistency matters more than motivation• How training in difficult conditions can change your race-day mindset ​The simple preparation habits that eliminate unnecessary decisions ​How to get comfortable doing the things you don't want to do ​Why controlling the controllable can transform your training ​How small daily…

Natalia's journey into ultrarunning is anything but ordinary. After winning The Circle and serving in the British Army, she found herself taking on some of the world’s toughest stage races—including Marathon des Sables as her first ultra. Today you'll learn how ultrarunning can teach us about resilience, self-trust, preparation, and learning to be comfortable with the unknown. From approaching a brutal race with limited running experience to stepping away from the pressure of social media and performance, Natalia offers a refreshing perspective on what it means to become a stronger ultra runner without losing the joy that brought you to the sport in the first place. You’ll learn: • How to prepare when you don't feel physically ready • The race-planning details ultra runners shouldn't overlook • How to build confidence through difficult experiences • Why comparison can quietly change your relationship with running • How to handle uncertainty when an ultra doesn't go to plan • Why keeping running fun can make…

When life throws a wrench into your training, your race, or your plans, it’s easy to let one inconvenience spiral into “my whole race is ruined.” In ultrarunning, things will go wrong. The real skill is learning how to respond when they do. In this episode, we’re diving into the mindset and practical tools that can help you stay level-headed, solve problems, and keep moving forward when things don’t go according to plan. Every training struggle, unexpected obstacle, or race-day curveball is a chance to build the resilience you’ll need when things get tough. In this episode, you’ll learn: -​Why expecting things to go wrong can actually make you more prepared -​How to shift from panic mode into problem-solving mode ​-Why the language you use can change how you respond -​How to stay productive when your first solution doesn’t work -​Why saying your positive self-talk out loud can make a difference ​-When to accept what you can’t control—and where your power still lies ​-Why “something is better than nothing”…

Nutrition can make or break an ultramarathon. In this episode, we’re breaking down one of the most frustrating parts of ultra running: what happens when your fueling strategy stops working. From nausea and stomach issues to palate fatigue, hydration mistakes, and struggling to stay consistent. You’ll learn how to troubleshoot problems instead of guessing, practice fueling in training, and build the flexibility and discipline needed to keep yourself moving forward. In this episode, you’ll learn: -How to tell the difference between true nausea and simply being tired of your fuel -Why hydration may be playing a bigger role in your GI issues than you realize -How to build more variety into your race-day nutrition -Why experimenting with one variable at a time matters -What your fueling timing can do for your stomach -How to troubleshoot carbs, sodium, magnesium, caffeine, and ingredient sensitivities -Why your nutrition strategy needs to evolve with distance, intensity, heat, and race conditions -How to develop…

This is a different episode, as we are covering everything we're building here at Everyday Ultra, and how you can be a part of it! We usually don't talk about these too much on the podcast, as we always try to keep the focus of adding value first and foremost. But after many requests, we wanted to put out this episode to lay out everything! Along with a special announcement at the end of the episode. Enjoy! SHOW LINKS: Everyday Ultra YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@everydayultrapodcast1473 Everyday Ultra Website: theeverydayultra.com Everyday Ultra Newsletter: https://everydayultra.beehiiv.com/ Desert Peak Ultras 100K + 50K: desertpeakultra.com Endure Better Backyard Ultra: endurebetter.com Free running events: https://everydayultraevents.netlify.app/ Javelina Jundred Training Camp: https://javelinatraningcamp.netlify.app/ 1:1 Ultramarathon Coaching: everydayultracoaching.com Group Ultramarathon Coaching: https://www.theeverydayultra.com/group-coaching

Justin Kaufman joins us for this episode of Everyday Ultra, and this one goes DEEP. From sobriety and rebuilding his life through endurance sports to becoming a 12x ultramarathoner, 2x Ironman, and someone taking on 12 ultras in 12 months. Kaufy has built a completely different approach to what it means to train, recover, and perform at a high level. Kaufy gets into the mindset, habits, and philosophy behind it all—and there are some seriously unconventional takeaways. In this episode you will learn: ​ How sobriety completely changed Kaufy’s relationship with endurance sports ​ The high-volume, Norwegian-inspired training philosophy behind his massive mileage ​ Why sleep, food, and recovery come BEFORE training ​ How back-to-back long runs build the durability needed for ultras ​ His wild fueling strategy, including HUGE carbohydrate intake and the legendary maple syrup method ​ Adjusting hydration, sodium, and carbs for heat, elevation, and race conditions ​ Training for the long term while managing health,…

Max is back on the Everyday Ultra Podcast—and this time, he’s coming off one of the most jaw-dropping performances in ultrarunning history. After setbacks, DNFs, and plenty of people questioning what he was capable of, Max finally put all the pieces together at Badwater 135. The real story isn’t just what happened on race day. It’s everything that went into making that performance possible. Behind betting on yourself, the training changes that helped unlock another level, and what it takes to stay patient when a race feels like it’s falling apart. From brutal heat preparation and ultra-specific training to race strategy, consistency, and digging deeper than you thought possible. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why your biggest setback might not say anything about your actual potential • How intentional training can transform an already-strong athlete • What serious heat training can actually look like • Why patience can be your biggest weapon on race day • How to stay locked into your plan when everything…

Jennifer Higgins is back on the Everyday Ultra Podcast after an incredible year of racing, coaching, and learning what she’s capable of. In this episode we dive into consistency, self-belief, handling the low points of an ultra, learning from difficult races without beating yourself up, and how to stay composed when things don’t go according to plan. If you’re training for your first ultra, chasing a PR, or trying to become more mentally resilient when races get tough, there’s a lot here you can take straight into your next training block. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How consistency creates freedom in your training • Why a tough race can become your most valuable training experience • How to separate a bad performance from your identity • A simple mental check-in for when your brain says it’s time to stop • Why self-belief can change how you finish an ultra • How to build speed and durability together • How to train for hills without constantly overdoing the vert • How to adjust when your race-day plan…

In this episode, Sierra Morris, weeks after her first 100-mile finish at the Vermont 100, unpacks the mental skills that helped her navigate one of endurance sport's toughest challenges. From managing self-doubt, handling pain, setbacks, and the inevitable emotional highs and lows that every ultrarunner faces. If you've ever struggled with consistency or wondered how the best ultrarunners stay mentally strong when things get hard, this episode will give you tools you can put into practice immediately. In this episode, you'll learn: -Why mental training is just as important as physical training. -A simple technique to stop negative thought spirals before they derail your race. -Why every emotion during an ultra is temporary—and how that knowledge can keep you moving forward. -How celebrating small wins during training creates stronger race-day resilience. -Practical strategies for staying consistent when motivation fades. -The mental tools Sierra relied on during her first 100-mile finish—and how you can…

We're answering all of your questions about my Badwater 135 race in this massive Q&A episode! In this episode we cover: How I heat trained so that the heat did not bother me at all at Badwater (and how you can too) My full nutrition and hydration plan for Badwater Biggest lessons learned out there Tips for applying to Badwater 135 if you want to get in to the race Mental strategies to help you get through low points What gear I used out there And much more! SHOW LINKS: Want to be coached by me and my team to crush your next ultramarathon in our 1:1 coaching program?⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a free call here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ with one of our coaches to see if we are a good fit! Want to work with me to crush your next ultramarathon in our group coaching program? Sign up for our group coaching program…

I ran the Badwater 135 this past week, and it was the hardest thing I've ever done. The mental battles I faced out there were unlike any other; combine that with fatigue coming off racing Western States 100 one month prior, 120+ degree temps, and tons of climbing, this was a battle. In this episode, we go through the play-by-play of the whole race, along with tips, strategies, and lessons to help you overcome any challenge you face in an ultramarathon. Q&A portion will be released tomorrow in a separate episode! SHOW LINKS: Want to be coached by me and my team to crush your next ultramarathon in our 1:1 coaching program?⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Book a free call here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ with one of our coaches to see if we are a good fit! Want to work with me to crush your next ultramarathon in our group coaching program? Sign up for our group coaching program…

Fresh off Western States 100, the focus now shifts to one of the toughest races on the planet: Badwater 135. What does it take to prepare for 135 miles across Death Valley? In this episode, we explore the training, recovery, mindset, and strategy behind taking on one of ultrarunning's greatest challenges. Whether you're training for your first ultra or chasing a new PR, you'll find lessons you can apply to your own running. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why recovery after a goal race can make or break your next performance. • How to prepare for racing in extreme heat. • The mindset shifts that help you stay adaptable when conditions change. • What goes into transitioning from one major race to another. • Practical strategies that make you a stronger, smarter ultrarunner. • Why some of the biggest breakthroughs happen long before race day. If you want to improve as an ultrarunner while getting an inside look at the preparation behind one of the sport's most iconic races, this episode is for you. SHOW…

If you've ever let your watch dictate how you feel about your training, this episode will change the way you think about progress. This episode breaks down the difference between the metrics that actually make you a stronger ultra runner and the ones that create unnecessary stress, helping you focus on the data that truly matters while tuning out the noise. Instead of chasing flashy numbers, you'll learn how to measure real progress, make smarter training decisions, and build confidence in your fitness. In this episode, you'll learn: • Which metrics actually predict ultra marathon performance. • Why your watch may be giving you misleading information. • The overlooked feedback that can improve your training. • How to measure recovery and know when to push or back off. • How simplifying your data can make you a stronger, more confident ultra runner. SHOW LINKS: For information on Everyday Ultra Coaching and how to join: theeverydayultra.com Book a free coaching call: https://calendly.com/d/cm2z-j76-c49…

This episode isn't about overcoming adversity—it's about redefining what strength actually looks like. Army Ranger, ultrarunner, author, and cancer warrior Janina Simmons shares a mindset that challenges the way most runners think about setbacks, ambition, and success. Whether you're battling an injury, chasing a big race, or simply trying to stay consistent, this conversation offers a perspective that can change the way you approach both running and life. If you want to become a tougher, more resilient ultrarunner, this is an episode you won't want to miss. In this episode, you'll learn: Why your biggest setbacks don't have to define your future. A powerful mindset shift that can help you handle injuries, failed races, and adversity. How gratitude can make you mentally stronger without sacrificing ambition. The hidden trap that keeps many runners from enjoying the sport they love. Why building resilience before life gets hard is one of the greatest investments you can make. How to stay driven while giving…

If you've ever wondered what separates runners who make massive breakthroughs from those who stay stuck, this episode is for you. Everyday Ultra athlete Alberto Gomez unpacks the mindset, training, and race-day decisions that helped him nearly double his Backyard Ultra performance in just one year. Rather than focusing on talent, this conversation reveals the habits, perspectives, and lessons that create lasting progress—not just in racing, but in life. You'll walk away with practical insights that can help you train smarter, race stronger, and build the confidence to keep improving. This episode isn't just about one incredible race—it's about becoming the kind of runner who continues to level up year after year. Why learning to trust effort over pace can completely change your training. The overlooked habits that make long runs more productive—and more enjoyable. The mindset shift that helps you push through difficult moments without burning out. Why curiosity may be one of the most powerful tools for…

This episode is a masterclass in what actually helps ultra runners improve over the long term. Everyday Ultra coach Hunter Foltz shares the lessons that took him from a collegiate golfer with no running background to completing Leadville 100, chasing the Lead Challenge, and preparing for Moab 240. Instead of focusing on race results, this conversation explores the habits, training decisions, and mindset shifts that create stronger, more resilient ultrarunners. Whether you're training for your first ultra or your fastest one yet, you'll walk away with practical insights you can apply to your own training and racing. In this episode, we cover: • Why treating your training like an experiment can unlock better race performances. • The fueling and hydration mistakes that quietly hold many ultra runners back. • How to build race-specific fitness—even if you don't live near mountains. • Why time on feet may matter more than mileage for ultramarathon success. • Why consistency beats perfection when building…

What does it take to keep evolving after reaching the top—and how do you know when mental toughness has gone too far? In this episode of the Everyday Ultra Podcast, Joe sits down with Everyday Ultra coach and 200-mile superstar Kilian Korth amidst his upcoming documentary: Forged in Failure: The Quest for the Crown. Kilian reflects on the lessons he has learned since completing the Triple Crown, the competitive pressure that pushed him to another level at Cocodona, and the devastating injury that came from limping through the final 60 miles of the race. You’ll learn: Why Kilian no longer wants ego to be the fuel driving his racing How mental toughness can become both your greatest strength and greatest weakness Kilian’s approach to navigating injury, uncertainty, and losing the activity that defines his identity How a “no-options mindset” can create greater discipline in running and everyday life Why failure does not automatically make you stronger—and the work required to actually learn from it How to…

The best ultramarathon training plan isn’t necessarily the one you follow perfectly—it’s the one you’re willing to adjust when your body tells you something needs to change. In this episode, I break down one of the most important—and counterintuitive—strategies for making more progress, recovering faster, avoiding injury, and showing up stronger on race day: being flexible with your training plan. We cover: Why blindly completing every workout can actually limit your progress The difference between lacking motivation and genuinely needing recovery The five warning signs that it may be time to modify your training How to decide whether to move a workout, shorten a long run, rest, or begin a deload Why quality training produces better adaptations than forcing junk miles How to rearrange your week without stacking too many difficult sessions How “mission over ego” helped me run one of the best races of my life at the Tahoe 200 Listen now to learn how to stop treating your training plan like an unbreakable…

If you want to run your next best 100-mile race, this episode is your roadmap. Three experienced ultra running coaches break down what actually separates a strong 100-mile performance from simply surviving the distance. From training and race execution to pacing, fueling, mindset, and adapting when things don't go according to plan, this conversation is packed with practical lessons earned through both breakthrough performances and hard-fought setbacks. Whether you're preparing for your first 100 miler or chasing a new PR, you'll leave with a clearer understanding of what it really takes to perform at your highest level—before, during, and after race day. In this episode, you'll discover: • Why training for a 100 miler requires a different approach than shorter ultras. • The biggest mistakes runners make before race day—and how to avoid them. • How to pace, fuel, and manage your race for your strongest finish. • The mental strategies that keep experienced ultrarunners moving when things get hard. • What…

Want to set a new PR in your next ultra? Whether you're chasing a faster finish, tackling a new distance, or returning to a race with unfinished business, this episode breaks down the key ingredients that separate breakthrough performances from missed opportunities. Today we are joined by Everyday Ultra coaches Angela and Laura to share the lessons they've learned from their own racing and coaching experience. Together, they dive into the training, execution, mindset, and race-day decisions that can make the biggest difference when you're aiming for your best performance—while sharing practical takeaways you can immediately apply to your own running. In this episode, you'll learn: • The biggest mistakes that quietly hold runners back from PRs • Which areas of training deserve the most attention—and which are often overlooked • How to identify your biggest performance limiter • The race-day decisions that can save (or cost) you valuable time • Why execution matters just as much as fitness • Simple mindset…

What does it actually mean to leave it all out there in an ultramarathon? And how do you do it without going all-in too early and completely blowing up your race? In this episode of the Everyday Ultra Podcast, I break down how to truly empty the tank on race day — not just by “trying harder,” but by making smarter decisions, pushing at the right moments, and learning how to override the voice in your head that tells you to slow down, sit down, or play it safe when you still have more to give. This episode was recorded from one of our Everyday Ultra athlete coaching calls, where I shared lessons from Western States, Cocodona 250, Javelina Jundred, and Tahoe 200 to explain how to push to your absolute limit while still racing smart. In this episode, we cover: What “emptying the tank” actually means in an ultra Why most runners have more left than they think How to separate pain from danger during a race When to push harder based on effort, RPE, and race distance Why aid stations can destroy your momentum if…

What separates ultrarunners who simply survive race day from those who cross the finish line feeling strong, confident, and ready for the next challenge? In this milestone 400th episode of the Everyday Ultra Podcast, we review the knowledge obtained from years of experience. From coaching hundreds of athletes, interviewing the best ultrarunners in the world, and racing countless ultras. Instead of chasing every new training trend, you'll learn how to focus on the handful of things that truly move the needle. Whether you're preparing for your first ultra or chasing a personal best, this episode will help you train smarter, avoid common mistakes, and unlock a higher level of performance. In this episode, you'll discover: -The five pillars every successful ultrarunner needs to master. -Why finishing an ultra is very different from nailing one. -The training mistake that quietly holds back most runners. -How to identify what's actually limiting your performance. -The mindset shifts that can transform both your…

I had the best mountain 100 mile race of my life on one of the best days of my life, racing the coveted Western States 100 miler. And in this episode, I share all of the lessons, tips, strategies, and details from the day, so that you can takeaway key learnings to improve your own training and racing. Enjoy, and Endure Better. SHOW LINKS: Check out the full list of gear I used at Western States 100 this year: https://www.rendezvu.co/joe-corcione/lists/81620623 Register for our 100K or 50K race, Desert Peak Ultra, by going to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠desertpeakultra.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to be coached by me and my team to crush your next ultramarathon in our 1:1 coaching program?⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Book a free call here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ with one of our coaches to see if we are a good fit! Want to work with me to crush your next ultramarathon in our group coaching program? Sign up for our…

Tomorrow, we race the Western States 100 miler, and here are all of my raw thoughts, emotions, and perspectives going into the race. See you in Auburn. SHOW LINKS: Register for our 100K or 50K race, Desert Peak Ultra, by going to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠desertpeakultra.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to be coached by me and my team to crush your next ultramarathon in our 1:1 coaching program?⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Book a free call here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ with one of our coaches to see if we are a good fit! Want to work with me to crush your next ultramarathon in our group coaching program? Sign up for our group coaching program here:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.theeverydayultra.com/group-coaching⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Joe on…

The Hard Route Pays Well: Lessons in Resilience and Ultra Running What can ultra running teach you about overcoming adversity, building confidence, and becoming the person you're capable of being? In this inspiring episode, Joe and Kilian sit down with ultra runner Austin Montero, whose life story is a powerful example of refusing to let circumstances define your future. Born with significant challenges and facing obstacles from the very beginning, Austin shares how he developed a mindset centered on personal responsibility, perseverance, and relentless growth. From training for a 5K to completing a 100-mile race, Austin reveals the lessons he's learned through failure, resilience, and pushing beyond what he once thought was possible. If you're looking for motivation to keep showing up, trust the process, and pursue your potential, this episode is for you. In this episode, you'll learn: -Why adversity can become a powerful advantage -How confidence is built through action, not motivation -What failed races…

What does it really take to keep improving as an ultra runner for decades—not just years? In this episode of the Everyday Ultra Podcast, Coach Laura Saponar shares the lessons she's learned from nearly 20 ultramarathons, including her recent breakthrough performance at the Sedona 125. At 59 years old, Laura continues to set new personal bests, proving that growth in ultrarunning has far less to do with age and far more to do with consistency, adaptability, and a willingness to keep learning. Whether you're training for your first ultra, chasing a breakthrough race, or looking for ways to stay healthy and improve over the long haul, this episode is packed with wisdom you can apply to your own training. In this episode, you'll learn: -The biggest mistake road runners make when moving into ultrarunning -How to determine the right training volume for your body -What to do when things go wrong during an ultra -How to develop a stronger mental toolkit for difficult moments -Why strength training may be the missing…

How a Smarter Approach to Training Can Unlock Your Best 100-Mile Race Yet What separates an ultra runner who simply finishes from one who continues to improve race after race? In this episode, ultra runner Melanie Hoy shares how stepping outside her comfort zone transformed her training and racing. After feeling like she left too much on the table in previous 100-mile races, she decided to challenge herself with structured speed work, intentional mental strategies, and a more purposeful approach to building fitness. Melanie breaks down the highs and lows of the Canyons 100 Mile Endurance Run, exploring everything from race-day preparation and confidence-building workouts to navigating difficult moments when things don't go according to plan. In this episode, you'll learn: -Why speed work belongs in every ultra runner's training plan—even for 100-mile races -How gradual confidence-building can lead to major performance breakthroughs -Why focusing on effort instead of pace can unlock better training sessions…

Could Better Movement Be the Missing Piece in Your Ultra Training? Most ultra runners focus on mileage, workouts, and nutrition—but what if becoming a stronger runner starts with improving the way you move? In this episode, Joe sits down with mobility coach and sub-24-hour 100-mile finisher John Lindsay to explore how mobility, strength, and movement quality can help you run more efficiently, recover better, and stay healthier throughout training. This conversation goes beyond stretching, breaking down common misconceptions and revealing why building a resilient body is one of the smartest investments an ultra runner can make. Whether you're chasing your first finish or your next PR, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on longevity and performance in the sport. In this episode, you'll discover: -Why mobility is much more than stretching -The movement mistakes that could be holding back your running -How improving mobility can lead to better efficiency and durability -The connection between…

What If Becoming a Better Ultra Runner Starts With Raising Your Standards? What separates runners who consistently improve from those who stay stuck? It isn't just talent, fitness, or the perfect training plan—it's the standards they choose to live by every single day. We'll explore why striving for excellence can transform not only your ultrarunning but every area of your life. Instead of chasing perfection, you'll learn how small daily habits, intentional choices, and a commitment to growth create the athlete capable of reaching goals that once felt impossible. Whether you're training for your first ultra, chasing a PR, or looking for more fulfillment in the process, this episode will leave you inspired to raise your own standard. In this episode you'll discover: -Why excellence isn't reserved for the most talented athletes -How daily standards shape long-term ultrarunning success -Why recovery and flexibility are just as important as hard work -How to bounce back from setbacks without losing momentum -The…

Trying to balance work, family, travel, and ultra training? This episode proves you don't need a perfect schedule to chase extraordinary goals. Sarah Normand is a full-time professional, wife, mom, and 200-mile ultrarunner who has built success through consistency, adaptability, and a willingness to keep showing up. From transitioning out of road running to tackling some of the toughest endurance races, she shares the lessons that have helped her thrive on and off the trail. If you're training for your first ultra or a new personal best, this conversation will help you become a stronger, smarter, and more resilient runner. In this episode, you'll learn: -Why consistency beats perfection -How to balance training with a busy life -The biggest lessons from moving from road running to trail ultras -Practical ways to stay flexible without sacrificing progress -The mindset that helps overcome setbacks and race-day lows -Why listening to your body leads to better long-term performance -How to avoid burnout while…

What does it take to keep moving when everything tells you to quit? In this episode, the Lambros brothers share how they went from everyday athletes to running across Australia and the UK while raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for cancer research, overcoming injuries, brutal conditions, and setbacks that would end most attempts. This conversation is packed with lessons that every ultra runner can apply, whether you're training for your first 50K or chasing a 100-mile finish. You'll learn why having a strong "why" is the ultimate performance tool, how to stay calm when things go wrong, and why resilience is built one difficult step at a time. In this episode, you'll learn: -Why purpose is the foundation of mental toughness -How to separate pain from suffering during long races -The mindset that helps you overcome setbacks and uncertainty -Practical lessons from running across two countries -Why embracing adversity can make you a stronger ultra runner -How consistency and belief compound into…

What does it take to go from barely running beyond 15 miles to finishing one of the toughest 250-mile ultramarathons in the world? Dr. Jeff Hammond shares a refreshingly honest look at what it really takes to chase a massive goal and embrace the unknown. This conversation is packed with practical wisdom, mindset shifts, and stories that will inspire you to think bigger while staying grounded in smart training and preparation. This episode will challenge the limits you place on yourself and give you a new perspective on what's possible. In this episode, you'll discover: -Why having less experience than everyone else isn't always a disadvantage -What 250 miles teaches you about patience, resilience, and adaptability -The surprising power of embracing the ultra running community -How to balance ambitious goals with smart preparation -Why comparing your journey to other runners can hold you back -Lessons from recovery that every ultrarunner should hear -How stepping outside your comfort zone can unlock your…

Peak training is where ultramarathon dreams are either reinforced—or quietly sabotaged. Most runners think peak weeks are simply about logging the biggest mileage of their training cycle. But the athletes who arrive at race day strong understand that these weeks are about much more than volume. Learning how to handle fatigue, testing race-day decisions before they matter, and balancing the fine line between building fitness and digging a hole too deep to climb out of. In this episode you will learn how to maximize the benefits of your highest-volume weeks, avoid common traps that derail runners late in a training cycle, and use peak training to gain confidence heading into race day. You'll also discover: -Why peak weeks are about far more than just accumulating miles -The hidden purpose behind your longest runs and biggest training blocks -A simple mindset shift that can transform how you approach race preparation -The costly mistake that ruined an otherwise excellent training cycle -The often-overlooked…

What does it really take to keep improving as an ultra runner year after year—and what if your best performances are still ahead of you? Everyday Ultra athlete Corey Walker shares his remarkable journey from starting running at age 51 to running a sub-24-hour hundred miler just a few years later. Corey’s story is a powerful reminder that progress comes from mastering the fundamentals, staying patient, and focusing on what you can control. In this episode, you'll discover: The mindset shift that helped transform a difficult hundred-mile experience into a breakthrough performance A simple approach to staying motivated and consistent when life gets busy The role flexibility plays in training and why rigid plans don’t always lead to the best results A unique mental strategy that can help you navigate tough moments during races How focusing on process goals instead of outcome goals can lead to surprising breakthroughs The lesson Corey learned about improvement that every ultra runner needs to hear This episode is…

At just 23 years old, Lila Gaudrault has already built an ultra running resume that most athletes spend decades chasing. In this episode of the Everyday Ultra Podcast, Lila shares her unconventional path into ultrarunning, why she skipped the traditional collegiate running route, and what she learned from taking on her first 250-mile race at Cocodona. From discovering trail running as a teenager to navigating the highs, lows, and unexpected challenges of a multi-day adventure through Arizona, Lila offers a refreshing perspective on growth, resilience, and the joy of pursuing what genuinely excites you. This conversation is packed with insights that can help you become a stronger and more resilient ultrarunner. In this episode, you'll learn: -Why following a non-traditional running path can sometimes lead to unexpected opportunities -The mindset shift that helped Lila transition from competitive high school running into ultramarathons -What her first 50K taught her about preparation, pacing, and learning…

Glute pain, sciatica, hamstring issues, and hip impingements can be some of the most confusing — and frustrating — injuries runners deal with. Because when pain shows up in the glute, hip, hamstring, or low back, the actual cause isn’t always where you feel it. In this episode, I’m joined again by physical therapist and strength coach Kameron Harder to continue our injury prevention and rehab series for runners. This time, we break down some of the trickiest problem areas in the posterior chain and hips — including why glute pain might actually be coming from your low back, how sciatica really works, why hamstring tightness is often a strength issue, and what runners need to know about hip impingements. In this episode, we cover: Why glute pain is often misdiagnosed How low back and SI joint issues can refer pain into the glute The difference between true sciatica and general nerve-related pain What to do for hamstring tightness and hamstring injuries Why stretching isn’t always the answer for hamstring pain…