Enduring the Impossible with Vincent Antunez

This episode is a deep dive into the mind and mission of Vincent Antunez, DSc, PA-C - a retired U.S. Army Major, ultra endurance athlete, and founder of Trail Toes. From grueling military deployments to multi-day ultramarathons across the globe, Vincent shares how pain, persistence, and preparation have shaped every step of his journey.

We talk about what it takes to push beyond the limits of your body - and more importantly, your mind. Vincent shares raw, powerful stories of suffering and success on the course, the lessons that endurance sports teach about humility and resilience, and the gear and mindset strategies that keep him (and his feet) moving forward. This one is packed with wisdom from the front lines - of both battlefields and ultramarathons.

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⏱️ Episode Timeline:

[1:12] - How Vincent met ultrarunning legend Lisa Smith-Batchen — and helped her complete her historic Badwater Quad [3:44] - A military career across decades and continents [6:57] - How a post-midnight beer run in Germany accidentally became his first marathon [11:42] - Why he keeps showing up, even without formal training [13:58] - The 3 reasons people drop out of ultras (and how to beat them) [20:31] - Innovative tips for staying cool and blister-free on brutal courses [24:49] - Trail Toes and how Vincent created it in Afghanistan [38:11] - The psychology of endurance: crews, quitting, and the right kind of pressure [52:05] - Why Vincent keeps coming back to these events — and what they continue to teach him

🔗 Links & Resources:

• Trail Toes Foot & Body Care

• Vol State 500K

• Band of Runners – a trail running camp for veterans and first responders

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