Episode 4: What do mashed potatoes, the Barkley Marathons, and a woman dominating 240-mile races have in common? This episode.

In this episode of The Kinda Fast Podcast, Claire Boyce and Travis Vaughn take a deep dive into the wild and inspiring world of ultrarunning. They spotlight the legendary Courtney Dauwalter, known for her laid-back style, unconventional fueling (yes, mashed potatoes and Coke), and her unbeatable grit. The episode unpacks the concept of the pain cave, shares practical nutrition strategies from national coach Dean Thompson, and plays a fun round of “This or That” based on Courtney’s real-life preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or just curious about the ultra scene, this one’s packed with motivation, insight, and community.

Takeaways:

Courtney Dauwalter succeeds with an intuitive, feel-based approach to running and fueling. The “pain cave” is a powerful mental space that every endurance runner encounters.

Proper fueling is essential, and Coach Dean Thompson offers practical advice for every stage of the race.

Ultra marathons aren’t just physical challenges—they’re emotional and strategic journeys.

The Kinda Fast Podcast creates space for runners of all paces, encouraging growth, laughter, and connection.

Keywords: running, ultra marathon, Courtney Dauwalter, pain cave, nutrition, training, podcast, Upward Running, Dean Thompson, marathon