Buckle Up with Simon and Brian: An Ultrarunning Conversation

In this episode, Tara Dower shares her incredible journey as an ultra runner, discussing her recent FKT attempt on the Appalachian Trail, her involvement with Girls on the Run, and the importance of role models in sports. The conversation delves into the challenges of long-distance running, the support system behind such feats, and the mental recovery process after completing a significant endurance challenge. Tara emphasizes the importance of setting ambitious goals and not fearing failure, inspiring young runners to pursue their dreams.

Tara's Girls on the Run Fundraiser page: https://support.girlsontherun.org/fundraiser/5607331

In this conversation, Simon Guerard shares his experiences from the 2024 Tour de Geants and the Tour du Mont Blanc, discussing the challenges, surprises, and lessons learned from these grueling ultra races. He reflects on the differences between European and American ultra running, the importance of preparation and recovery, and the unique aspects of racing in the Alps. Simon emphasizes the camaraderie among runners and the beauty of the landscapes, while also addressing the physical and mental demands of such endurance events.

In this conversation, ultra runners Brian Passenti, Simon Guerard, and DeShawna Joe discuss the challenges and triumphs of ultra running, particularly focusing on DeShawna's journey through grief after the loss of her daughter. They explore how running serves as a healing outlet, the importance of community support, and the need for greater diversity in the ultra running scene. DeShawna shares her aspirations to raise awareness about distracted driving and to inspire others in her community, particularly Native Americans, to participate in ultra running. The discussion highlights the emotional and physical aspects of ultra running, the significance of personal stories, and the collective responsibility to foster inclusivity in the sport.

Mandy Mullen, owner of Run Windsor Race Series, shares her journey in the running community and how she built a thriving fitness culture in Northern Colorado. She started as a non-runner but was inspired by the running community and eventually became a race director and coach. Mandy's mission is to create a healthier community through endurance events that support the running community and highlight local businesses and nonprofits. She organizes unique races with different distances and themes, focusing on creating a festival experience for participants. Mandy also emphasizes giving back to the community by donating a portion of race proceeds to local nonprofits and empowering others to participate in endurance events. Mandy Mullen, the founder of Run Windsor, shares her experiences in race directing and building a running community. She discusses the challenges and rewards of organizing races, the importance of community support, and the need for boundaries and self-care. Mandy also talks about her future goals for Run Windsor, including mentoring others in race directing and expanding the business. The conversation highlights the value of authenticity, teamwork, and knowing when to push and when to take a step back.

Cole Giovannetti shares his journey into sport and ultra running, including his experience at the Leadville Trail 100. He talks about how he got into training and racing, his motivation to get healthy, and his transition from triathlons to ultra distance obstacle course races. Cole discusses his strategy for pacing and his approach to the Leadville race. He also highlights the sense of community and support he has found in Leadville and his desire to introduce more people to the race. Cole Giovannetti discusses his experience as the last official finisher of the Leadville Trail 100 Run. He shares his thoughts on being the last ass over the pass and the pride he takes in representing average runners. Cole also talks about the challenges he faced during the race, including fatigue in his quads and the difficulty of simulating downhill running in training. He mentions his plans for future races, including the TMB and possibly the Uray 100. Cole also talks about his gym, DiversaFit and Higher Memphis, and invites people to join him for workouts.

Ryan discusses his experience participating in the Lead Man race series, which consists of multiple races including a marathon, a 50-mile run, a 100-mile mountain bike race, a 10K run, and the famous 100-mile run. He talks about the changes in the race format and the challenges he faced during each race. Ryan also shares his training and recovery process, as well as the experience of racing alongside his son. The conversation highlights the importance of adjusting goals and pacing oneself during endurance races. Ryan reflects on his experience at the Leadville race, including the weather, his performance, and the support from his crew. He shares his mindset of staying mentally present and not letting negative thoughts affect his race. Brian also discusses his struggles with his Achilles and the mental battle he faced to continue. Both Ryan and Brian highlight the importance of perseverance and the support they received from their crew and fellow runners. Ryan reflects on his experience running the Leadville Trail 100 and the importance of staying present in the moment during the race. He shares how he practiced being in a neutral mindset and not getting too high or too low. Ryan also discusses the challenges of nutrition during ultra races and the importance of finding the right balance. He talks about the mental and physical toll of running for hours on end and the need to embrace the pain and discomfort. Ryan expresses his gratitude for the ultra running community and the support he receives from his friends and fellow runners.

Lorena Rubio shares her journey into ultra running and her battle with breast cancer. She started running in 2014 and eventually transitioned to ultra trail running with her husband. Lorena's love for running and her strong mindset helped her through her cancer diagnosis and treatment. She underwent a double mastectomy and 16 rounds of chemotherapy, but she continued to stay active and even ran three 30K races during her chemotherapy. Lorena's determination and positive mindset allowed her to overcome the challenges and continue pursuing her passion for running. Lorena Rubio shares her journey of overcoming breast cancer and becoming an ultra runner. She talks about her races, including the Cuyamaca 100K and the Tahoe Rim Trail 100, and how they symbolize her comeback and triumph over cancer. Lorena also discusses the importance of community support and how her friends created the Run for Lorena fundraiser, which raised $15,000. She emphasizes the power of a positive attitude and the temporary nature of challenges. Lorena plans to continue running and inspiring others through her journey.

Zoe, Simon, and Brian got together to talk about the upcoming Leadville Trail 100. We shared stories about our training, what we expect from the course, and our overall race strategies. It was a great chance to catch up and get excited about the big race. Zoe also talked about her book, Sustainable Runner, which she co-wrote with Tina Meir. It's a really interesting look at how trail running can be a force for positive change. She's passionate about building a stronger running community and protecting the trails we all love. It was inspiring to hear her thoughts on how we can all make a difference.

Join us as we dive deep into the world of ultra-endurance running with seasoned athlete Martin Schneekloth. They share their hard-earned wisdom on conquering immense distances, both physically and mentally. From epic race tales to ambitious goals, we explore the challenges and triumphs that define this extreme sport. Discover how Martin is tackling his audacious quest to complete a 100-mile race in every state, and learn how he bounces back from setbacks like a DNF. We also delve into the gritty details of injury management, the role of pain medication, and the allure of winter challenges like the Spine Race. Get ready to be inspired as these ultra-runners share their passion and insights.

In this conversation, Simon and Brian discuss their recent race experiences and the challenges they faced with heat and altitude. They invite Alex Larson, a registered dietitian, to provide tips on nutrition and hydration for endurance athletes. Alex shares insights on fueling for summer race conditions, managing hydration in hot and humid environments, and the importance of electrolyte balance. She also discusses the individual variability in sweat rates and offers recommendations for determining hydration needs. The conversation highlights the significance of proper nutrition and hydration in optimizing performance and preventing dehydration and GI issues. The conversation covered various topics related to nutrition and hydration for endurance athletes. They discussed the importance of testing for sweat rate and sodium loss, the difference between calories and grams of carbs, the challenges of nutrition and hydration at high altitude and in high humidity, the impact of intermittent fasting on performance and recovery, and the approach to body composition for endurance athletes. The guest, Alex Larson, provided valuable insights and recommendations throughout the conversation.