In this engaging conversation, Mike DiGiovanni shares his journey through ultra running, sobriety, and the importance of community. He discusses how running has been a tool for personal growth and recovery, the mental strategies he employs during races, and the significance of nutrition and fueling. The conversation also touches on upcoming races, reflections on DNF experiences, and the future of ultra running, emphasizing the supportive nature of the running community.

In this episode, Brian Passenti and Simon Guerard sit down with Dale Garland, the race director of the Hard Rock 100, to discuss the evolution of ultra running, the unique challenges faced by runners, and the importance of community and volunteerism in the sport. Dale shares his personal journey in ultra running, the origins of the Hard Rock 100, and the values that have shaped the race over the years. The conversation also touches on safety in ultra running, the future of the Hard Rock 100, and the significance of giving back to the community. Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

08:44 The Origins of Ultra Running and Hard Rock

12:40 The Evolution of Hard Rock and Its Popularity

17:00 The Unique Experience of Hard Rock

21:30 Qualifying Races and Global Participation

25:55 The Iconic Rock and Its Significance

29:53 Challenges and Memorable Moments in Hard Rock

36:42 Race Director Responsibilities and Runner Safety

38:54 The Importance of Community Support in Ultra Running

41:39 Balancing Experience and Safety in Ultra Running

44:20 The Lottery System and Its Impact on Runners

47:49 Encouraging Female Participation in Ultra Running

49:45 The Role of Volunteering in Building Community

52:15 The Culture of Giving Back in Ultra Running

55:07 Future Vision for Hard Rock and Ultra Running

In this conversation, Brian Passenti, Simon Guerard, and David Everson discuss their experiences and insights into the world of ultra running. They share personal updates, delve into their journeys into the sport, and reflect on the challenges and triumphs of training and racing. The discussion highlights the importance of community, the strategies for preparing for races, and the personal motivations that drive them to push their limits. As they look ahead to future races, they express excitement and apprehension about the challenges that lie ahead, emphasizing the camaraderie and support found within the running community.

This conversation explores the journey of Chris, a veteran who transitioned into ultra running after personal loss and military service. He discusses the impact of his father's illness on his running journey, the importance of community support for veterans, and the establishment of the Warrior Trail Foundation, which aims to help veterans through trail running. The discussion highlights the challenges veterans face in civilian life, the significance of mental health awareness, and the need for supportive networks. Chris shares his training experiences, upcoming events, and the foundation's mission to provide coaching and community for veterans.

In this engaging conversation, ultra running legend Marshall Ulrich shares his journey into the world of endurance sports, reflecting on the evolution of the ultra running community, gear, and the personal motivations that drive athletes. He discusses his experiences at iconic races, the impact of personal loss on his running career, and the growth of professionalism in the sport. Ulrich also introduces the Route 66 Ultra, emphasizing inclusivity and community engagement, while offering insights into the future of ultra running.

In this episode, Brian, Simon, and Nora discuss their experiences in ultra running, focusing on recent races, personal challenges, and the importance of community support. Nora reflects on the Black Canyon 100K and Zion 100K, sharing insights on race preparation, recovery, and the highs and lows of endurance sports. The conversation emphasizes the significance of hydration, nutrition, and mental resilience in overcoming obstacles during races. Nora shares her experiences with trail running, focusing on the challenges faced during races, particularly the PCT. She discusses the importance of community, injury prevention, and recovery, as well as her future plans for races in Europe potentially. The conversation highlights the emotional and physical aspects of ultra running, including the mental challenges of dealing with injuries and the joy of being part of the running community.

In this conversation, Remo shares his transformative journey from a life of addiction to becoming an accomplished ultra runner. He discusses the mental challenges of ultra running, the importance of community support, and his commitment to raising awareness for mental health issues among men in the ultra running community. Remo reflects on his recent races, including the Route 66 Ultra, and his future ambitions in the sport, emphasizing the need for accessible mental health resources.

In this episode, Emily Keddie shares her inspiring journey from hiking the Pacific Crest Trail to becoming an ultra runner. She discusses the challenges she faced, the importance of community in the sport, and her ambitious goal of achieving 2 million feet of elevation gain in a year. Emily reflects on her experiences with various races, the lessons learned from her time on the trail, and her plans for the future, emphasizing the balance between training and personal life.