Today, we discuss two topics: training philosophy and finding one's career path. I share my insights on training theory, including the importance of different effort levels, the benefits of cold plunges and sauna work, and the progression from least specific to most specific training. I also share my personal journey of finding a career path, which involved exploring different industries, gaining exposure through various projects, valuing interpersonal connections, and giving back.

Takeaways

-Training theory involves different effort levels, from easy to hard, and progresses from least specific to most specific training.

-Cold plunges can be beneficial for recovery, but may skip steps in the recovery process, while sauna work has few drawbacks.

-Finding one's career path involves exploring different industries, gaining exposure through various projects, and valuing interpersonal connections.

-When approaching brands for sponsorship, it's important to show how you can help them sell their products and to have a purpose and plan for the future.

-Giving back and valuing the community and connections in your field can be just as important as having a large audience or impressive accomplishments.

Sound Bites

"Cold plunge can be really good for recovery, but it makes you skip a couple steps."

"Most of your time at that Z1 effort level and then some of it pushing really hard."

"Throw things at the wall and see what sticks."

Chapters

00:00 Exploring Training Philosophy and Theory

09:00 The Benefits and Drawbacks of Cold Plunges and Sauna Work

19:52 Finding Your Career Path: A Personal Journey

28:43 Approaching Brands for Sponsorship: How to Stand Out

32:20 The Importance of Giving Back and Valuing Interpersonal Connections

Today we interview Derrick Lytle, who has been a staple at most big trail running events, tackled ultras himself and even gone after the Arizona Trail FKT.

Follow Derrick online: https://www.instagram.com/derricklytle/?hl=en

Derrick Lytle is a videographer and photographer who got his start in video production by shooting paintball videos. He later transitioned to capturing trail running footage and found a passion for storytelling through visual journalism. He discusses his experiences in the trail running community, including his attempts at the Arizona Trail FKT. Lytle also shares his thoughts on nutrition in endurance sports, emphasizing the importance of fueling appropriately for the level of intensity and duration of the activity. In this conversation, we discuss the topics of fat adaption and fat burning in ultrarunning, the importance of individualized nutrition strategies, and the challenges and rewards of stage racing and bikepacking. We also share stories of their adventures, including a terrifying experience on dangling ladders in Mexico.

Takeaways

Sound Bites

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Derek Lytle's Career in Video Production

05:19 The Power of Storytelling in Visual Journalism

13:19 The Importance of Immersion in the Sport for Capturing Footage

18:07 Fueling Appropriately for Endurance Sports

29:46 Fat Adaption and Fat Burning in Ultrarunning

32:11 Individualized Nutrition Strategies

35:01 The Importance of Accurate Fueling

36:27 The Challenges of Stage Racing

38:49 The World of Bikepacking

43:38 The Fulfillment of Creating and Completing Self-Designed Routes

52:46 Adventure and Risk-Taking

57:28 Connecting with the Running and Outdoor Community

Keywords: Derek Lytle, videographer, photographer, video production, paintball, trail running, storytelling, visual journalism, Arizona Trail, FKT, nutrition, endurance sports, fat adaption, fat burning, ultrarunning, nutrition strategies, stage racing, bikepacking, adventure, Mexico

In this episode, I discuss various topics, including Joe Stringbean McConaughey's attempt to break my unsupported record on the John Muir Trail, the concept of Fastest Known Times (FKTs), and some funny observations about the Olympics. I also talk about the decision to pull out of a race due to mental fatigue and share my experience participating in a beer mile.

The episode concludes with a discussion about the Olympics and astronauts stuck in space.

Takeaways

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Solo Cast

01:16 The John Muir Trail and Sleep Strategy

02:13 Understanding FKTs and Trail Records

11:14 Deciding to Pull Out of a Race

21:48 The Fun of a Beer Mile

24:54 Finding Inspiration in the Olympics

26:21 Imagining Being Stuck in Space

Keywords Joe Stringbean McConaughey, John Muir Trail, unsupported record, Fastest Known Times, FKTs, Olympics, mental fatigue, beer mile, astronauts

In this episode, I share some of my hitchhiking stories, including a memorable ride with a woman who claimed to be a descendant of the lost princess Anastasia. I also talk about my experiences hiking the Ouachita Trail and the Ozark Highland Trail, as well as my coaching and upcoming race. I reflect on the importance of taking risks and going after goals, even if they don't always work out.

Sound Bites

Takeaways

Chapters

00:00 Memorable Hitchhiking Stories

09:38 Hiking the Ouachita Trail and Ozark Highland Trail

13:08 The Importance of Taking Risks

16:15 Passion for Coaching and Helping Others

17:19 Preparing for the Wasatch 100 Race

23:14 Sharing Adventures and Stories

Keywords: hitchhiking, stories, Ouachita Trail, Ozark Highland Trail, coaching, race, taking risks

Jameson Collins set the supported FKT on the Oregon Coast Trail, a 450-mile trail, in six and a half days. We talked to him about how the record went, how he hallucinated, and why he wore two different watches. The Oregon Coast Trail consists of running on flat white beaches, crossing inlets, and timing tides correctly. Collins had to adjust his plans due to unforeseen circumstances, such as missing tide windows and strong headwinds. He experienced hallucinations but pushed through and had a strong finish. Despite setbacks, Collins successfully completed the trail and set a new record.

We also discuss Jameson's passion for outdoor clothing and his company, Houda Trail, which specializes in custom-made apparel using Polartek Alpha Direct fabric.

We also mention the rumor of a 200-mile race coming to the Wasatch near Salt Lake City.

Takeaways

Jameson Collins set the supported FKT on the Oregon Coast Trail in six and a half days.

He faced challenges such as missed tide windows and strong headwinds.

Collins experienced hallucinations but persevered and had a strong finish.

Sound Bites

"Why did you wear two different watches on the trail?"

"I wore a second one just so I have two tracks run it basically because I didn't have any other way to record it."

"The record seemed like pretty soft to me. It was like seven days, 17 hours or something. And I was like, I don't know, that seems like pretty doable."

"I was like, we got to get there to where he camped when he leaves. then me and him are basically racing. I'm racing his ghost of the finish line, you know, and we made it to where he camped at the time he left that morning. And I was like, I got I think I could do this faster than him. I just have to do this faster than him. Totally."

"We should be able to get that, you know, we should be able to get it for sure. It might be close, but like, we'll get it. Yeah. Okay. So then now through the final miles, are you just like ecstatic or are you just trying to hold on or where's your head out after being out there six plus days? Um, it was, no, it was like pretty, it was pretty good. It was, I wasn't like in, I mean, I was in pretty rough shape until we got to Brookings and then"

"Yeah, totally. No, I looked pretty rough. Like people were concerned about me. Like when I was coming through town for sure, I couldn't. Thomas was really I couldn't like figure out what traffic was doing anymore. Just kind of try to run out into the middle like cross, you know, crosswalks and stuff. And he was doing a really good job at like letting me know and actually like stopping traffic and stuff for me. But like I felt like I really had it together, but I probably didn't. Yeah, totally."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Rumor of a 200-Mile Race

01:25 Introduction to Jameson Collins and the Oregon Coast Trail FKT

03:22 Wearing Two Watches for Redundancy

06:42 Choosing the Oregon Coast Trail for the FKT Attempt

14:40 Challenges and Adjustments on the Trail

23:00 Perseverance and Strong Finish

27:10 Racing against a ghost

28:02 Final miles and physical condition

29:24 Concerns and physical toll

30:42 Physical effects of the race

32:30 Stats of the Oregon Coast Trail FKT

34:38 Unlocking new possibilities

35:31 Accidental entry into the world of trail running

36:25 Discovering Alpha Direct fabric

37:35 Starting Whoa Trail

46:48 Upcoming races and future plans

50:30 Continuing with solo episodes and guest interview

Keywords

Oregon Coast Trail, FKT, supported FKT, trail running, tides, pack rafting, hallucinations, record, Jeff Garmire, FKT, Oregon Coast Trail, challenges, sleep deprivation, physical discomfort, confidence, long-distance races, Whoa Trail, outdoor clothing, Polartek Alpha Direct fabric, upcoming races, pushing limits

I interview Morgan Elliott, a runner specializing in short and fast races. We discuss the mindset of redlining during a race and how to determine if it's going to be a good day. We also talk about vertical kilometers (VKs) and the intense physical and mental challenges they present. Morgan shares his experience of representing the USA in international races and the camaraderie among team members. We also touch on the topic of DNFs (Did Not Finish) and the different motivations behind dropping out of a race.

In this conversation, Morgan discusses his experience racing in Europe, his training strategies, and his favorite distances and types of running. He talks about the camaraderie and strategy involved in team races, the importance of recovery and preventing injuries, and the thrill of racing in challenging conditions.

Takeaways

Redlining during a race means pushing yourself to the limit and knowing that you have to give it your all from the start.

In VK races, the first few minutes are crucial, and it's important to pace yourself and not go out too hard.

Representing your country in international races is a special experience, and it's important to give it your best and be proud of wearing the national team uniform.

DNFs (Did Not Finish) are a personal decision, and while some athletes drop out due to injuries or financial considerations, others choose to push through and finish the race.

The camaraderie among runners, whether in the front or back of the pack, is inspiring and creates a sense of community in the sport. Racing in Europe offers a unique atmosphere with enthusiastic spectators and low-key but talented competitors.

Camaraderie and strategy play a significant role in team races, while individual strategies are more common in shorter races.

Recovery and injury prevention are crucial in maintaining a consistent training schedule.

Racing in challenging conditions can be both thrilling and advantageous, as it can unsettle competitors and provide a mental edge.

Morgan's favorite distances are three to five hours, and he enjoys technical trails with difficult footing.

He is attracted to races with steep climbs and enjoys the challenge of using his hands during the run.

Morgan's favorite races include Zagama and Transvulcania, which offer diverse terrain and unique cultural experiences.

He is always learning and adapting his training approach, and he plans to focus on shorter races in the upcoming year.

Training includes interval workouts, such as tough hill days, to improve his speed and endurance.

He embraces the opportunity to race against top competitors and believes in learning from every race experience.

Goals for the future include participating in the Skyrunning World Series and completing a 120-mile loop in Summit County, Colorado.

Sound Bites

"Race when you have a full deck."

"You're redlining from minute 10."

"If you don't go out four minute miles, you're not going to be in the frame."

"There are so many low-key badasses that show up to European races."

"I love it when people are like looking at the weather and like, oh man, it's going to rain during a race. I'm like, yes. Anything that can get in the heads of my competitors."

"I did a lot of Hill workouts. I call them tough Hill days and they are mean."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Redlining

02:18 The Challenge of Vertical Kilometers

04:13 Race Strategy and Going Out Too Hard

09:04 Representing Your Country in International Races

16:40 The Decision to DNF: Personal Choices

19:36 The Camaraderie Among Runners

28:14 Racing in Europe: Enthusiastic Spectators and Low-Key Competitors

29:12 Camaraderie and Strategy in Team Races

30:05 Recovery and Injury Prevention in Training

31:03 Thriving in Challenging Conditions

39:18 Favorite Distances and Types of Running

41:43 Favorite Races: Zagama and Transvulcania

45:36 Adapting Training Approaches and Goals

48:27 Interval Workouts: Tough Hill Days

55:14 Embracing Competition and Learning from Every Race

56:12 Future Goals: Skyrunning World Series and Summit County Loop

Keywords

running, redlining, race strategy, vertical kilometers, representing your country, DNFs, racing, Europe, training, camaraderie, strategy, recovery, injuries, challenging conditions, favorite races, goals

Sign up for our race: https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?eid=17896

I’m here to share the story of my latest adventure on the Tahoe Rim Trail. Just 12 hours after a self-extraction from my FKT attempt, I’m ready to give you an unfiltered, behind-the-scenes look at what went wrong and why. From gut-wrenching nausea to a busted running pack and even a yellow jacket sting, this attempt turned into a comedy of errors.

I’ll take you through the highs and lows, the unexpected challenges, and what it’s like to push your limits, even when the odds are stacked against you.

I’ll share the details of my preparation, my strategy, and the moment-to-moment experiences that defined this journey. Despite the setbacks, this attempt was a powerful reminder of why I love the challenge and adventure of FKTs.

Whether you're an ultrarunner, a thru-hiker, or someone who loves a good adventure story, this episode has something for you. Tune in to hear about the grit, determination, and sometimes sheer stubbornness it takes to go after the fastest known time.

Listen, subscribe, and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode. And remember, take those big swings and go for the hard things – it’s always worth it. Stay elite, my friends!

Takeaways

Taking on challenging endeavors involves risks and the possibility of failure.

Even when faced with setbacks and obstacles, it's important to keep pushing forward and try to find solutions.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, things don't go as planned and we have to accept the outcome.

Failure should not discourage us from taking future risks and pursuing new adventures.

Sound Bites

"Let's get into the attempt."

"Sometimes things happen. You're going for literally the fastest time ever. So gotta take risks."

"Sometimes things happen. You're going for literally the fastest time ever. So gotta take risks."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:14 The Attempt Begins

09:11 Stomach Issues and Setbacks

17:27 Pack Failure and Despair

28:29 Reflecting on Failure and Lessons Learned

37:10 Conclusion and Encouragement

Keywords

Tahoe Rim Trail, FKT, fastest known time, pack failure, challenges, disappointment, risk-taking

Sign up for our race! https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=117574

In this episode, we discuss the Montana Meltdown and the benefits of fixed-time races. I also share my experience participating in the Scummy Summer Slammer event and my preparation for the Tahoe Rim Trail FKT attempt. I discuss the importance of emotional connection in race planning and FKTs and share my unique approach to race planning.

Takeaways

Sound Bites

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Announcement

01:28 The Benefits of Fixed Time Races

07:09 Scummy Summer Slammer: A Grassroots Event

08:36 Preparing for the Tahoe Rim Trail FKT

19:15 Challenges and Goals for the FKT Attempt

25:23 Building a Strong Community with Free Outside Races

Keywords

race organizing, fixed time races, Montana Meltdown, Scummy Summer Slammer, Tahoe Rim Trail, FKT, emotional connection, race planning

We have started a race! Sign up for the Montana Meltdown, the premiere new fixed time race in Bozeman, Montana: https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=117574

In this conversation, I interview Mika Thewes, an experienced ultrarunner who has completed multiple 200-mile races. We discuss Mika's journey into ultrarunning, her experiences in races like Bigfoot and Tahoe, and her recovery from the Cocodona 250. Mika shares her low-tech approach to race planning and her focus on time goals rather than competition. We Talk some volunteering and race scheduling.

Follow Mika on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sugarcrashvegan

Takeaways

Mika Thewes is an experienced ultrarunner who has completed multiple 200-mile races.

She got into running to get in shape and gradually transitioned to trail running and longer distances.

Mika's favorite races include Tahoe and Bigfoot, but each race has its own unique challenges and beauty.

She takes a low-tech approach to race planning, using handwritten sheets of paper to track aid stations and estimated times.

Mika focuses on time goals rather than competition, racing against herself and pushing her limits.

We talk about the challenges faced during races and goals for future races.

Mika Thewes explains how he manages to afford his racing through volunteering.

The conversation ends with a discussion about Mika's upcoming race, Tor des Géants in Italy.

Animal Encounters and Volunteering

Sound Bites

"That stupid powerline switchback climb out of like, what was it, Blackpool or something? That was the worst."

"I just decided to double the distance. I think I had run like eight miles of trails before I did a 50 mile trail race, like in total in my life."

"It was the craziest like I could talk about that all day. I mean, spot-trackers were optional so a bunch of people weren't wearing them. People got food poisoning at the aid stations."

"It is what it is. It was disappointing."

"I mean, I understand everyone's concerned, because like obviously I'd be concerned about that too."

"Yeah, that's hilarious. I mean, you were flying down from Elden."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Race Announcement

01:08 Mika: A 200-Mile Expert

06:37 Getting Into Ultrarunning

08:34 Transitioning to Trails and Longer Distances

10:03 The Gnarly Challenges of Bigfoot and Tahoe

13:49 Dreams and Future Challenges

17:13 Recovery and Racing Tahoe 200

21:07 Racing Against Time and Overcoming Challenges

26:19 Challenges and Goals in Recent Races

35:36 Animal Encounters and Volunteering

47:47 Upcoming Race: Tor des Géants

Keywords

ultrarunning, 200-mile races, Bigfoot, Tahoe, Cocodona, race planning, time goals, determination, ultrarunning, races, challenges, goals, animal encounters, volunteering, Torre dei Giants

Buy a Make America Eclipse Again Hat: https://www.freeoutside.com/shop

In this episode, I dive into some of the wildest animal encounters I've had while hiking and camping. From a heart-pounding close encounter with a moose on the trail to the adrenaline rush of being charged by a grizzly bear, I'll take you through these intense moments. I'll also share my run-ins with territorial goats and a funny story about a mischievous mouse that found its way into my tent. And if that wasn't enough, I'll recount a bizarre interaction with some drunk individuals while camping. Join me as I highlight the unpredictable and exciting experiences that come with encountering wildlife in the great outdoors.

Takeaways

Sound Bites

Keywords animal encounters, hiking, camping, moose, grizzly bear, goats, mouse, wildlife