Endurance State of Mind

In this episode of Endurance State of Mind, we sit down with Chris Mixon—an ultra runner with podium finishes at the Pinhoti 100 and Lake Martin 100, and a course record at Fondren Urban Ultra. But what makes this conversation powerful isn’t just his racing resume—it’s the fact that Chris is sharing his story mid-comeback. After surgery, setbacks, and months of painful recovery, he’s opening up about the mental battle of rebuilding, the lies injuries whisper, and the resilience it takes to believe your best days are still ahead. With his return to racing just weeks away, Chris talks about faith, family, grit, and the deeper lessons running teaches about life itself.

“Alright folks, we tried to wrap this thing up all professional, but then the real ultra-marathon began. trying to find Chris Mixon’s Strava account. Three grown men, collectively with decades of racing miles, completely defeated by a search bar. We scrolled, we typed, we squinted at our phones like we were 80 years old at the eye doctor. Turns out, running 100 miles is easier than finding your buddy on Strava. Don’t worry, we eventually found him beanie pic, frozen sideburns go give Chris a follow. Just don’t ask us to teach a tech class anytime soon.”

takeaways

• The physical battle is only half the challenge.
• Injuries can lead to growth if we examine our mindset.
• Choosing to see purpose in hardships is crucial.
• The victim mentality leads to burnout and bitterness.
• Struggles amplify self-doubt, but they can be overcome.
• Community support is vital in endurance sports.
• Mental resilience is built through consistent training.
• Every setback has the potential for a comeback.
• Running teaches us about life and perseverance.
• Setting goals and making plans is essential for success.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Chris Mixon's Journey

11:03
The Start of an Endurance Journey

14:01
Overcoming Injuries and Setbacks

19:32
The Mental Game of Endurance Racing

22:36
Injury Details and Recovery Process

28:09
Race Experiences: Lake Martin and Penhody

37:22
The Importance of Community and Resilience

41:14
The Value of 'Junk Miles' in Training

43:46
Mental Resilience and Community Support

45:20
Overcoming Excuses and Building Discipline

47:01
The Mental Game of Endurance Running

48:01
Upcoming Races and Personal Goals

50:21
Rapid Fire Questions: Insights and Reflections

53:44
The Comeback Story: Grit and Determination

56:35
Final Thoughts and Community Engagement

01:02:12
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For more than two decades, Ed Daly has been the gold standard of Mississippi endurance. With over 20 consecutive years of logging 2,000+ miles annually, Ed’s journey is about more than races — it’s about attitude, perseverance, and lifting others up along the way. In this episode, Ed shares how running became a lifelong habit, why community matters, the greatest week of running in his life, and how his medical background shapes his approach to health and longevity. From Crescent City to rim-to-rim-to-rim, his story proves that endurance is a state of mind.

takeaways

• Ed Daly is a pillar of the Mississippi endurance community.
• Consistency in running is key, with over 2000 miles logged annually.
• Family plays a significant role in Ed's running journey.
• Running is a unique sport that offers mental clarity.
• Injury prevention is crucial for longevity in running.
• Community support enhances the running experience.
• Technology has changed the way runners train and track progress.
• The joy of running in new places is unparalleled.
• Runners today are different, not necessarily softer.
• Post-race celebrations often include a well-deserved beer.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Ed Daly: A Pillar of Endurance
03:32
Ed's Journey into Running: From Casual to Committed
06:34
Family and Running: The Daly Legacy
09:29
Consistency in Miles: The 2000-Mile Streak
12:42
Favorite Races and Memorable Experiences
15:39
The Greatest Week of Running: Rim to Rim to Rim
21:30
Injury Management and Medical Insights
24:24
The Role of Family in Running Passion
32:38
Health Concerns in Young Athletes
36:21
Evolution of Running Technology
39:56
The Community of Strava
41:05
Iconic Running Locations
44:14
Training Strategies for Races
48:12
The Yasso 800s Explained
52:30
Managing Race Day Pacing
58:41
Rapid Fire Questions with Ed Daly
01:03:33
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What does it take to push your body to the brink—and then keep going? In this episode of Endurance State of Mind, we sit down with ultra running enigma Arrmon Abedikichi, a four-time 100-mile finisher, five-time Fondren Urban Ultra champion, and co-course record holder. Arrmon shares how a single moment of curiosity ignited a journey into self-improvement, resilience, and the art of embracing discomfort. From losing everything in a house fire to winning races against stacked fields, his story is part grit, part philosophy, and part sheer stubbornness. We dive deep into his mental playbook, his love for the beatdown, and why he’d rather be underestimated on race day. If you’ve ever wondered how an “average” runner finds extraordinary depths, this conversation will change the way you think about endurance—on the trail and in life.

takeaways

• Armon's journey into ultra running began with a simple curiosity about his physical limits.
• Mentality plays a crucial role in endurance sports, influencing performance and resilience.
• Overcoming adversity can lead to profound personal growth and a sense of purpose.
• Community support is vital in the running world, fostering camaraderie and shared experiences.
• Setting big goals forces individuals to change and grow in order to achieve them.
• Curiosity drives exploration and self-discovery in endurance sports.
• Focus and language can significantly impact emotional and physical responses during races.
• Learning from failures is often more valuable than learning from successes.
• Book recommendations can provide insights and inspiration for personal development.
• Being fully committed to a goal is essential for achieving success.

Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Endurance and Self-Discovery

02:41
Meet Arrmon Abedikichi: The Ultra Runner

04:00
The Journey Begins: From Ordinary to Extraordinary

21:38
The Power of Mindset in Endurance Sports

34:42
The Journey of Endurance Running

39:57
Overcoming Adversity in Races

48:39
Finding Your Place in the Running Community

55:19
Training Strategies and Mental Toughness

01:02:06
Motivation and Mental Clarity in Running

01:03:48
The Evolution of Identity Through Running

01:06:15
Lessons Learned from Competition and Goals

01:08:46
Book Recommendations and Their Impact

01:12:46
Future Aspirations and the Concept of Retirement

01:15:32
The Joy of Community in Ultra Running

01:17:24
Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Discussions

01:21:22
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In this episode of Endurance State of Mind, we sit down with Susan Dobson a triathlete, marathoner, and mom whose story is a testament to resilience, grit, and growth. From learning to swim in her 30s after a traumatic childhood experience to conquering three full Ironmans, qualifying for Boston, and juggling the chaos of family, career, and training, Susan shares how endurance sports transformed her life.

We dive deep into the mental battles of group workouts, the discipline it takes to chase a goal for years, and the power of honoring promises to yourself. Susan also reflects on setbacks, injuries, and how adapting with age has reshaped her approach to training and racing.

This is an inspiring conversation filled with laughter, hard-earned wisdom, and the reminder that it's never too late to become the athlete you never thought you could be.  Perfect for anyone who's ever doubted they belonged in endurance sports, or who just needs that reminder to keep showing up.

takeaways

• Susan Dobson transitioned from a non-athlete to an endurance athlete.
• She overcame a lifelong fear of water to become a triathlete.
• Her journey includes completing multiple Ironman races and marathons.
• Qualifying for the Boston Marathon was a significant personal achievement.
• She emphasizes the importance of honoring promises to oneself.
• Injuries taught her the importance of adapting training as she ages.
• Susan values the community and support found in endurance sports.
• She believes in the power of resilience and determination.
• Her experiences highlight the balance between motherhood and athletic pursuits.
• Susan is currently pursuing a PhD while continuing her athletic journey.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Susan Dobson's Journey

09:38
Overcoming Fear and Embracing Endurance Sports

18:41
The Triathlon Experience: From Fear to Accomplishment

24:31
The Ironman Challenge: Mindset and Preparation

35:14
The Mental Game of Racing

36:23
Navigating Race Challenges

41:03
The Journey to Boston Qualification

48:54
Reflections on Achievements and Setbacks

56:14
Adapting to Change and Injury Management

01:00:06
Future Goals and Community Engagement

01:04:04
New Chapter

#EnduranceStateOfMind #Ironman #BostonQualifier #TriathlonJourney #WomenWhoEndure #RunningMotivation #TrailRunning #GritAndGrace #Podcast

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Anthony and Zach go full host-mode for a no-guest episode of Endurance State of Mind—and it’s one of the rawest yet. From scorching heat and quad cramps to dry heaves and digging deep, the guys break down every brutal, hilarious, and inspiring moment of the Big Butts Ultra. They recap race strategy, near-meltdowns (literally), and what it takes to push through when your body wants to quit. Plus, Tour de France hot takes, a shoutout to Endurance State of Mind listeners who showed up big, and a look at what’s next for 2025 (Clear Creek, Tunnel Hill, Rocket City, and more).

For anyone who’s ever wondered what it really feels like to go to the pain cave—and come out the other side—this one’s for you.

takeaways

• The Tour de France is a major cycling event that captivates audiences worldwide.
• Tade Pogačar is a dominant force in cycling, showcasing exceptional skills.
• The dynamics of team strategies in cycling can significantly impact race outcomes.
• Mindset plays a crucial role in endurance racing and achieving personal goals.
• Preparation and training are essential for success in endurance events.
• Community and camaraderie enhance the experience of participating in races.
• The heat can be a significant factor in endurance races, affecting performance.
• Nutrition and hydration strategies are vital for maintaining energy levels during races.
• Personal connections and support from friends can motivate racers during challenging events.
• Reflecting on race experiences can provide valuable insights for future performances. Zach experienced severe nausea during the race but pushed through.
• The mental aspect of racing is as important as the physical.
• Support from friends and family can make a significant difference in endurance events.
• Finishing a race despite challenges can lead to a sense of pride.
• Post-race recovery is crucial for future performance.
• Nutrition strategies need to be adjusted based on individual needs and experiences.
• The importance of listening to one's body during a race cannot be overstated.
• Racing is not just about competition; it's also about enjoyment and personal growth.
• Future races should be approached with a mindset of enjoyment rather than just competition.
• Everyone has a story to tell, and sharing those experiences can inspire others.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Overview of the Episode

01:02
Tour de France Insights and Analysis

11:54
Best of the Pine Belt Recap

13:33
Big Butts Race Mindset and Goals

24:59
The Race Begins: A Shared Experience

26:52
Pushing Through Pain: The Struggle of Endurance

30:30
Support and Energy: The Role of Friends

31:48
Post-Race Reflections: Celebrating Achievements

33:34
Mindfulness and Preparation: The Pre-Race Mentality

36:28
Nutrition Strategy: Fueling the Race

39:18
The Turning Point: Facing Challenges

42:05
The Final Stretch: Overcoming Nausea

50:08
Mental Toughness: The Power of Perseverance

55:31
Looking Ahead: Future Races and Lessons Learned

56:42
Post-Race Reflections and Nutrition Challenges

59:45
Soreness and Recovery Insights

01:01:31
Future Race Plans and Goals

01:04:59
Apparel Discussion and Brand Promotion

01:09:35
Upcoming Events and Community Engagement

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What do you get when you combine sub-2:30 marathons, high school cross country chaos, and a son named Miles? You get Jacob Plocher—state record holder, school counselor, coach, and Mississippi’s own marathon man.

In this episode of Endurance State of Mind, Jacob takes us through his journey from overweight middle schooler to breaking state records and chasing finish lines at world majors. We talk about Boston breakthroughs, dad strength, fueling mistakes that ended with firefighters, and what it means to grind smarter—not just harder.

Whether you're a seasoned runner or just lacing up, Jacob’s story will leave you inspired to chase your own impossible.

takeaways

• Jacob's journey into running began with a desire to lose weight.
• He faced challenges in high school but learned the value of hard work.
• Transitioning to college running introduced new levels of competition.
• Coaching and community played a significant role in his development.
• Failures in races motivated him to improve and push harder.
• Training smarter became essential after becoming a father.
• Jacob emphasizes the importance of speed work in marathon training.
• He aims to represent Mississippi in major marathons.
• Family support has been crucial in his running journey.
• Jacob's future goals include breaking personal records and state records.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Jacob Plotker

02:42
Jacob's Early Running Journey

10:32
Transition to College Running

16:38
Marathon Experiences and Lessons Learned

22:32
Coaching Philosophy and Impact on Young Athletes

30:32
Life in Mississippi and Coaching at Gaucher High School

36:02
Connecting Through Running: Personal Stories

36:53
Life Changes: Balancing Fatherhood and Coaching

37:56
Adapting Training: From Old School to Smart Running

39:42
The Impact of Family on Running

40:51
Boston Marathon: A Turning Point in Performance

41:30
Training Insights: Speed vs. Endurance

45:06
Advice for New Runners: Building a Strong Foundation

46:30
Incorporating Strength Training for Runners

49:53
Cross Training: Finding Balance in Workouts

51:01
Rapid Fire: Quick Insights on Running Preferences

53:47
Rivalry and Growth: Competing with Friends

55:31
Future Goals: Breaking Records and New Challenges

01:01:30
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This week on Endurance State of Mind, we sit down with Louis Gagne—a cyclist, KOM chaser, and all-around ambassador for two wheels and transformation. Louis opens up about rediscovering cycling during COVID, trading in beers for big climbs, and how the bike became his therapy and his mission. From mountain biking in Mississippi to riding team-issued EF Education bikes through the streets of California, Louis’ journey is packed with grit, gear, and giving back.

We cover everything from bike nerd-out moments to how he helped his wife lose 30 pounds through cycling, and how he's quietly changing lives through charitable rides and bike donations. Oh, and did we mention he’s holding over 120 KOMs and still going?

Whether you’re curious about the Tour de France, wondering what it’s like to own more bikes than shoes, or just need some motivation to get back in the saddle—this episode is for you.

takeaways

• Louis Gagne started cycling again during COVID for mental health and fitness.
• Cycling has become a central part of Louis's life, leading to personal growth and community involvement.
• The importance of proper equipment in cycling cannot be overstated.
• Team dynamics play a crucial role in the success of cyclists in the Tour de France.
• Louis emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of cycling for mental well-being.
• The Peloton allows cyclists to conserve energy, making teamwork essential.
• Louis's charity work involves providing bicycles to those in need.
• The Tour de France showcases the incredible endurance and strategy of professional cyclists.
• Louis believes Tadej Pogacar is on another level compared to other cyclists.
• The cycling community is supportive and encourages newcomers to the sport.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to the Tour de France and Guest Introduction

03:15
Louis Gagne's Cycling Journey: From COVID to Competitive Cycling

06:36
Early Life and Endurance Sports: Discovering Passion for Cycling

09:20
Transitioning from Mountain Biking to Road Cycling

12:13
Life Changes and the Impact of Hurricane Katrina

15:25
Competitive Cycling: Experiences and Challenges

18:12
The Cycling Community and Local Competitions

21:27
Reflections on Cycling and Personal Growth

23:37
The Cycling Boom During COVID

32:15
Supporting Spouses in Cycling

40:55
Health Transformations Through Cycling

45:43
Exploring the Future of Cycling and Running

48:09
The Joy of Segment Hunting

50:23
Strava and Social Media Presence

50:49
Rapid Fire Tour de France Questions

53:08
Analyzing Tour de France Dynamics

01:01:08
Future of Cycling and Emerging Talents

01:08:16
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Sometimes, the quietest room is the loudest place we’ll ever be. In this gripping episode, co-host Anthony Herrington opens up about the emotional spiral that followed the loss of his mother, the end of a long-term relationship, and the isolation that nearly consumed him. It was in the silence of an empty house—alone with his thoughts—that Anthony realized something had to change.

What followed was a powerful transformation: from walking to clear his mind to strapping on a 30-pound weighted vest and walking off 85 pounds—both physical and emotional. This is the story of how a dark season became the birthplace of discipline, endurance, and self-discovery.

From suicidal thoughts to triathlon finish lines, Anthony's journey reminds us that rock bottom can be the trailhead to something greater. If you’ve ever felt stuck, alone, or unsure of your path forward, this episode is for you.

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From drumline director to gravel grinder, Andy Gilstrap didn’t just dip his toe into cycling—he cannonballed in. In this episode of Endurance State of Mind, we sit down with Andy to hear how he went from casual Trace rides with his family in 2023 to finishing the brutal 200-mile Unbound Gravel race just a year later. We talk Saturday group rides, training with coach Jed, surviving (and thriving) in the Kansas Flint Hills, nutrition strategies, clipless pedal fails, and why he’s already planning to go back for more. Whether you're a veteran cyclist or just considering your first ride, Andy’s story is full of grit, humor, and inspiration.

takeaways

• Andy Gilstrap is a relatively new cyclist who completed the Unbound 200.
• He started cycling in 2023 and quickly signed up for races.
• Training for the Unbound 200 involved a month of specific preparation.
• Nutrition during the race included gels and hydration strategies.
• The Unbound 200 was a challenging but rewarding experience for Andy.
• Cycling has a strong community aspect, with camaraderie among riders.
• Bike maintenance is crucial for long races like Unbound 200.
• Achieving training compliance is important for building confidence.
• Andy plans to participate in more local races after Unbound.
• The Tour de France is an exciting event that Andy enjoys watching.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Andy Gilstrap

05:33
Journey into Cycling

09:48
Training and Preparation for Races

14:46
The Unbound 200 Experience

19:40
Nutrition and Strategy in Endurance Cycling

28:16
Nutrition and Performance Insights

29:57
The Dynamics of Group Riding

32:44
Aerodynamics in Cycling vs. Running

34:30
Training Techniques: Cycling vs. Running

36:30
The Social Aspect of Cycling

38:17
Bike Maintenance and Race Preparedness

40:37
Mental Challenges in Endurance Racing

43:42
Training Compliance and Race Strategy

50:15
Future Races and Cycling Events

51:23
Tour de France Predictions

53:32
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In a powerful turn of the mic, co-host Zach Vogt steps into the spotlight to share his deeply personal journey—from a childhood rooted in love and discipline to a decade-long battle with addiction. Zach opens up about his rock bottom moment on a business trip to Canada and how it sparked a complete transformation. With raw honesty, he details how running, faith, and grace helped him rebuild his life and ultimately become a force in the endurance community. This is a story of resilience, redemption, and the power of taking that first step.

Zach Book Club

• •GRIT by Angela Duckworth
• •Atomic Habits - James Clear
• •12 Rules for Life - Jordan Peterson
• •Can’t Hurt Me - David Goggins
• •The Art of Learning - Josh Waitzkin
• •Extreme Ownership - Jocko Willink & Leif Babin
• •The Obstacle is the Way & Ego is the Enemy - Ryan Holliday
• •The Happyiness Hypothesis - Jonathan Haidt
• •The Art of Impossible - Steven Kolter
• •The Infinite Game & Start with Why - Simon Sinek

takeaways

• Zach's journey highlights the importance of transparency and honesty.
• Growing up in a supportive family shaped Zach's values and character.
• Discovering running in high school opened the door to endurance sports.
• College years brought challenges, including experimentation with alcohol.
• A pivotal work trip became a turning point in Zach's life.
• Sobriety was achieved through faith, determination, and support.
• Zach's transformation led to remarkable achievements in running.
• Gratitude plays a crucial role in Zach's daily life.
• The importance of community and support in recovery.
• Zach encourages others to seek help and turn their lives around.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Zach's Journey

03:25
Zach's Early Life and Family Background

06:29
The Shift to Endurance Sports

09:44
College Life and Early Running Experiences

12:38
The Rise of Alcohol in Zach's Life

15:35
Navigating Work and Personal Challenges

18:33
The Turning Point: Rock Bottom in Vancouver

21:25
The Path to Recovery and Sobriety

24:28
Life After Sobriety and Endurance Achievements

41:30
The Critical First Days of Recovery

43:09
Navigating the Early Days of Sobriety

44:41
Finding Inspiration in Endurance

46:54
Building Micro Habits for Success

50:07
The Redemption Tour: A New Beginning

52:34
Transformative Running Experiences

56:59
Living in Gratitude

01:02:09
The Power of Community and Support

01:09:39
Scriptural Guidance in Recovery

01:12:22
Living the Dream: A Life of Gratitude

01:16:42
New Chapter

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