The Adventure Jogger

In this conversation, Arlen Glick and Ryan discuss various topics, including Arlen's family campout, his niece's experience with the Adventure Jogger, his family's ministry, and his recent knee surgery. They also touch on Arlen's involvement in smuggling Bibles into a communist country and the importance of freedom of belief. The conversation highlights the unique experiences and perspectives of Arlen and his family, as well as the challenges and joys of being an uncle and a professional ultra runner. Arlen Glick discusses his decision to undergo ACL surgery despite being pain-free and the impact it may have on his running career. He reflects on his breakout performance at Western States and the challenges he faced in subsequent races. Glick also shares his experience running the Cocodona 250 and the new appreciation he gained for running through the night and multiple days. He expresses curiosity about longer races and self-supported events but emphasizes the importance of a scenic course. Glick is currently focusing on recovery and enjoying activities like fishing while he waits to return to racing.

Takeaways

Family is an important part of Arlen Glick's life, and they enjoy annual campouts together.

Arlen's niece had a memorable experience when she visited Arlen and received a custom-made bass guitar.

Arlen and his family are involved in ministry work, including smuggling Bibles into communist countries.

The conversation highlights the importance of freedom of belief and the challenges faced by those in countries with strict religious regulations.

Arlen recently underwent knee surgery to repair a torn ACL, which may impact his running career. Arlen Glick made the decision to undergo ACL surgery despite being pain-free, in order to prevent future complications and improve his running performance.

He reflects on his breakout performance at Western States and the challenges he faced in subsequent races, including a sophomore slump.

Glick gained a new appreciation for running through the night and multiple days during the Cocodona 250, and he enjoyed the unique experience.

While he is curious about longer races and self-supported events, Glick emphasizes the importance of a scenic course and the enjoyment of traditional races.

Currently, Glick is focusing on recovery and enjoying activities like fishing while he waits to return to racing.

Chapters

00:00 Family Campouts and Adventures

08:15 Smuggling Bibles and Freedom of Belief

44:15 The Decision to Undergo ACL Surgery

51:47 Hope for a Better Future

56:02 Reflecting on Breakout Performance

01:02:04 Gaining a New Appreciation

01:09:08 Curiosity About Longer Races

01:16:39 Focusing on Recovery

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The conversation revolves around the upcoming Western States Endurance Run and the state of ultra running. The men's side of ultra running has become predictable and less exciting, while the women's side has seen incredible performances and increasing depth. The conversation also touches on the growth of women's sports and the importance of personality and engagement in athletes. The hosts discuss the favorites and potential winners of this year's Western States, as well as the challenges and pressures faced by athletes in their second year. AJW shares his favorite section of the Western States course and the significance it holds for him. Andy Jones-Wilkins (AJW) reflects on his experiences running the Western States 100-mile endurance race and discusses the unique aspects of the race. He shares his love for the course and the special moments he has had running it. AJW also talks about the camaraderie and stories shared among runners at the cabin in Michigan Bluff. He mentions the ice cream sandwich run, a 52-mile training run where runners eat an ice cream sandwich and a Mountain Dew Code Red at the halfway point. AJW discusses the challenges faced by runners in the middle and back of the pack, including fighting cutoff times and relying on aid station volunteers. He also provides insights into training for Western States, particularly for runners from the East Coast. AJW concludes by expressing his contentment with his current role as a Western States volunteer and coach, and his desire to explore other races and potentially become a finish line announcer in the future.

Takeaways

The men's side of ultra running has become predictable and less exciting, while the women's side has seen incredible performances and increasing depth.

The growth of women's sports and the accessibility of athletes through the internet and social media have contributed to the popularity and engagement of female ultra runners.

Personality and engagement have become important factors in an athlete's personal brand, alongside their race results.

The favorites for this year's Western States include Jim Walmsley, Hayden Hawks, Tyler Green, and Jiang Sheng Shen on the men's side, and Katie Scheid, Rachel Drake, and Leah Yingling on the women's side.

Many athletes experience a second-year curse at Western States due to the pressure and expectations that come with a successful debut.

AJW's favorite section of the Western States course is the descent from the Deadwood pump to the El Dorado River crossing, which offers beautiful views and a gradual downhill grade. The Western States 100-mile endurance race holds a special place in AJW's heart, and he cherishes the memories and experiences he has had running the course.

The cabin in Michigan Bluff is a gathering place for runners, and AJW fondly recalls the camaraderie and stories shared there.

The ice cream sandwich run, a 52-mile training run with an ice cream sandwich and Mountain Dew Code Red at the halfway point, is a unique tradition among Western States runners.

Runners in the middle and back of the pack face challenges such as fighting cutoff times and rely on aid station volunteers for support.

Training for Western States requires a balance of technical trail running, long climbs and descents, and heat acclimation.

AJW is content with his current role as a Western States volunteer and coach, and he looks forward to exploring other races and potentially becoming a finish line announcer in the future.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Excitement for Western States

09:31 Favorites and Potential Winners of Western States

12:35 The Second-Year Curse at Western States

32:24 Cherishing the Memories of Western States

34:50 The Legendary Ice Cream Sandwich Run

37:15 The Challenges and Support for Middle and Back of the Pack Runners

41:29 The Back of the Pack Experience

47:50 Training Tips for Western States

52:25 Golden Ticket Races and Future Aspirations

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Angie's journey into trail running, inspired by her fascination with the mythical creature known as the Jackalope, led to a transformative experience in the running community. Her initial encounter with trail running and the challenges she faced as a new runner are highlighted, along with the supportive and encouraging environment she found within the trail running community. Angie Fuhrman shares her inspiring journey of transformation, from being 250 pounds to becoming a trail runner and physical therapy assistant. Her experience with weight loss surgery and the empathy it has given her for others is a central theme. Her husband's support and understanding play a significant role in her journey.

Takeaways

Angie's unexpected discovery of trail running through her fascination with the Jackalope showcases the diverse and unconventional paths that lead individuals to the world of running.

The challenges and obstacles Angie faced as a new runner, including judgment and skepticism, highlight the resilience and determination required to pursue a new passion.

The supportive and encouraging environment within the trail running community played a crucial role in Angie's journey, demonstrating the positive impact of community and camaraderie in the world of running. Empathy for others comes from personal experience and understanding.

Support and understanding from loved ones can be crucial in a health journey.

Weight loss surgery can be a life-changing option for some individuals.

Chapters

00:00 Unconventional Paths to Trail Running: Angie's Jackalope Journey

03:04 The Fascination with the Jackalope and the Start of Angie's Trail Running Journey

06:19 The Wall Drugs Experience and Unconventional Business Marketing

08:54 Buc -E's and Wall Drugs: Unusual Business Concepts and Connections

10:37 The Discovery of the Jackalope Race and Angie's Entry into Trail Running

13:01 Challenges and Judgment in the World of Running

25:12 The Weight Loss Journey: From Struggle to Transformation

27:16 Empathy and Understanding: The Impact of Personal Experience

35:24 The Role of Support: How Loved Ones Can Make a Difference

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The conversation discusses the recent controversy in the ultra running and trail running community regarding a gel company's misrepresentation of carbs and calorie count on their product labels. The conversation delves into the testing results, implications for athletes, and the company's response. The conversation covers the topic of nutrition in endurance sports, focusing on the controversy surrounding energy gels and the use of real food as fuel. It also delves into the business aspect of nutrition products and the importance of understanding the nutritional content of food. The conversation highlights the need for a balanced approach to fueling and the misconceptions around nutrition in endurance sports. The conversation covers a range of topics including unconventional fueling methods for endurance sports, the impact of parenting on lifestyle and priorities, and the physical demands of aging. It also delves into the societal pressure to appear healthy and the importance of reevaluating priorities in life. The discussion provides insights into the challenges and joys of parenting, as well as the changing perspectives on health and fitness as individuals age.

Takeaways

The controversy surrounding the misrepresentation of carbs and calorie count on gel product labels has sparked outrage in the ultra running and trail running community.

The testing results revealed significant discrepancies in the actual carb and calorie content of the gel products, raising concerns about the impact on athletes' performance and health.

The company's response to the controversy and the implications for athletes' fueling strategies have become topics of discussion and debate within the running community. The controversy surrounding energy gels and the importance of understanding the nutritional content of food

The business aspect of nutrition products and the need for a balanced approach to fueling

The misconceptions around nutrition in endurance sports and the benefits of using real food as fuel Unconventional fueling methods for endurance sports, such as using caro syrup and candy bars, can be cost-effective and provide similar benefits to traditional gels.

The experience of parenting brings about a shift in lifestyle and priorities, leading to a new perspective on personal hobbies and activities.

The physical demands of aging can impact energy levels and daily activities, highlighting the need for reevaluating priorities and expectations.

Societal pressure to appear healthy and fit can influence individuals' choices and behaviors, leading to a distorted perception of health and wellness.

Chapters

00:00 Controversy in the Running Community: Misrepresentation of Gel Product Labels

08:02 Testing Results and Implications for Athletes

12:55 Company Response and Fueling Strategies

01:03:38 Societal Pressure and Health Realizations

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In this conversation, Ryan and Kris discuss various topics, including living in Santa Barbara, wine cellars, and their mutual friend Michael McDonald. They also touch on Kris's work with Spartan and the challenges faced by the company during the pandemic. Kris shares his perspective on the corporate entrance into trail running and the importance of supporting local races. The conversation concludes with a humorous anecdote about injuries at obstacle course races. In this conversation, Kris Brown and Ryan discuss Kris's experience finishing 10th in the Western States 100 race. They also talk about Kris's coaching approach and the importance of finding workouts that excite and motivate athletes. Kris shares his favorite workouts, including hard climbs, back-to-back long runs, and long marathon-paced flat runs. He emphasizes the value of intuition and individual preferences in training. The conversation also touches on the topic of ball busting as a form of camaraderie and friendship.

Takeaways

Living in Santa Barbara and the challenges of finding friends with similar interests

The impact of corporate involvement in trail running and the importance of supporting local races

The struggles faced by Spartan during the pandemic and the company's shift in focus

The humorous and sometimes dangerous aspects of obstacle course races Finding workouts that excite and motivate athletes is crucial for effective training.

Hard climbs, back-to-back long runs, and long marathon-paced flat runs are valuable workouts for ultra runners.

Individual preferences and intuition play a significant role in training.

Ball busting can be a form of camaraderie and friendship among athletes.

Chapters

00:00 Living in Santa Barbara and Wine Cellars

03:03 Corporate Involvement in Trail Running

09:06 Challenges Faced by Spartan

33:57 Finding Exciting Workouts for Effective Training

41:23 Ball Busting as Camaraderie and Friendship

56:02 Appreciating the Sunrise at Western States

01:03:09 Individual Preferences and Intuition in Training

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Noah Shaw shares his running journey and his debut at the Umstead 100-mile race. He started as a wrestler and then got into gravel biking before transitioning to running. He quickly progressed in his running career, completing a marathon and several ultras within a year. Noah joined the Tuff Running Club and found a supportive community of runners. He mentally prepared for the Umstead 100 by trusting the process and focusing on his training. Noah's story highlights the importance of perseverance, mindset, and finding a supportive community in achieving running goals. Noah Shaw reflects on his experience running the Umstead 100-mile race and how it transformed his perspective on running and life. He discusses the support he received from the Tough Running Club and the motivation he found in the camaraderie of the race. Noah shares his race strategy, nutrition plan, and the mental challenges he faced during the race. He also talks about his future plans in trail running and the impact of his wrestling background on his approach to training.

Takeaways

Running a 100-mile race requires mental and physical preparation.

Training with a supportive community can enhance the running experience.

Progressing from shorter races to longer distances can be achieved with consistent training and dedication.

Running slower in training can lead to better race day performance.

Finding a focus and passion for running can drive motivation and commitment. The support and camaraderie of the Tough Running Club played a crucial role in Noah Shaw's success in the Umstead 100-mile race.

Having a race strategy and nutrition plan in place helped Noah stay focused and perform well throughout the race.

Noah's wrestling background helped shape his mental toughness and discipline in training and racing.

Completing the Umstead 100-mile race has inspired Noah to continue pursuing running and set new goals for himself.

Chapters

00:00 The Challenges of Running a 100-Mile Race

03:20 Noah Shaw's Journey to the Umstead 100

08:53 The Importance of Training and Mindset

27:26 The Unknowns and Comforts of the Umstead 100

29:59 Race Strategy and Nutrition: Keys to Noah Shaw's Success in the Umstead 100

38:09 From Wrestling to Running: How Noah Shaw's Background Shaped His Approach

44:23 Setting New Goals: How Completing the Umstead 100 Inspired Noah Shaw

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Sarah Wallace discusses her experience running the Southern States 200, a point-to-point 200-mile race in Alabama. She shares how she became interested in 200-mile races and why she enjoys the challenge of staying out in the woods for as long as possible. Sarah talks about the logistics and planning involved in a 200-mile race, including crewing and pacing. She also highlights the importance of doing research on race directors and the race itself. Sarah's mom joined her as part of her crew, and they both enjoyed the experience of interacting with other crews and volunteers. Sarah shares her training approach for a 200-mile race and the challenges of managing sleep during the race. Sarah Wallace discusses her experience running the Southern States 200-mile race and highlights the importance of adaptation and mental toughness in ultra-running. She emphasizes the changing preferences and needs during the race and the excitement of experiencing highs and lows. Sarah also praises the supportive running community and the beautiful course of the race. She shares her lowest point as struggling to stay awake and her favorite part as running with inspiring women. Sarah concludes by mentioning her upcoming races and the joy of being part of different running communities.

Takeaways

The Southern States 200 is a point-to-point 200-mile race in Alabama that offers a unique challenge for ultrarunners.

Doing research on race directors and the race itself is important when considering a first-year race.

Crewing and pacing are crucial for the success of a 200-mile race, and having a supportive and knowledgeable crew is essential.

Training for a 200-mile race involves building a strong base, running high mileage, and doing long back-to-back runs.

Managing sleep during a 200-mile race can be challenging, and listening to your body's cues is important. Adaptation and mental toughness are crucial in ultra-running, as preferences and needs change throughout the race.

Experiencing highs and lows during a race adds excitement and reminds runners that things can turn around.

The supportive running community and well-organized races contribute to a positive race experience.

Running with inspiring women can be a motivating and moving experience.

Choosing races that align with personal preferences and being part of supportive running communities can enhance the overall running experience.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Southern States 200

09:27 The Role of Crewing and Pacing in a 200-Mile Race

25:32 Adapting and Staying Mentally Tough

42:00 Running with Inspiring Women: The Best Part

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Jen Shetler discusses her experience running the Umstead 100 and her journey into ultra running. She shares her excitement about earning her first hundred mile buckle and the joy of wearing it everywhere. Jen also talks about the running community and the support and inspiration she finds among fellow runners. She opens up about her exercise-induced anaphylaxis and how she manages it during races. Jen also discusses the creation of the Tuff Run Club and how it has grown into a supportive and fun community for runners of all levels. Jen Shetler shares the story of how her DNF at Umstead 100 led to the creation of the Tuff Run Club, a supportive and inclusive community of runners. The club has grown to over 600 members in less than a year and has become a source of joy and inspiration for Jen and others. She emphasizes the importance of being a no-drop group and creating a welcoming environment for runners of all abilities. Jen also discusses the transformative power of running and the positive impact it has had on her life.

Takeaways

Earning a hundred mile buckle is a significant accomplishment and a source of pride for ultra runners.

The running community is filled with supportive and inspiring individuals, from elite athletes to everyday runners.

Everyone faces challenges in running, whether it's physical or mental, and finding ways to overcome them is part of the journey.

The Tuff Run Club is a community that welcomes runners of all levels and provides support, encouragement, and fun.

Planning and preparation are key in managing health conditions during races, and having a support system can make a big difference. A DNF can lead to something positive and transformative, as it did for Jen Shetler when she started the Tuff Run Club.

Creating a no-drop group and fostering a welcoming environment for runners of all abilities is essential for building a supportive community.

Running can have a profound impact on one's life, providing a sense of belonging, support, and personal growth.

The TuffRun Club has grown rapidly and become a source of joy and inspiration for its members.

Finishing a challenging race like Umstead 100 can be a powerful affirmation of one's ability to overcome obstacles and do hard things.

Chapters

00:00 Earning the Umstead 100 Buckle

09:15 The Tough Run Club

31:05 The Birth of the Tough Run Club

38:23 The Life-Changing Impact of Running Clubs

52:30 Taking on UltraSignUp

01:02:58 The Lows Don't Last: Overcoming Challenges

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In this conversation, Haley Shapley discusses her book 'Strong Like Her' and her own fitness journey. She talks about the process of creating the book, including the collaboration with a celebrity photographer for the stunning pictures. Haley also shares her personal experience with fitness, from playing sports in her youth to discovering the benefits of strength training as an adult. She discusses the relationship between strength training and running, and how it can improve performance and prevent injuries. Haley also talks about her experience competing in a bodybuilding competition and the challenges she faced. Finally, she addresses the issue of the gym environment and the importance of creating a welcoming space for everyone. In this conversation, Haley Shapley discusses the historical and cultural perspectives on women's strength and athleticism. She highlights the challenges women faced in the bodybuilding and fitness world, including the propagation of myths and stereotypes. The conversation also explores the societal expectations of femininity and the binary thinking that categorizes strength as masculine and weakness as feminine. Shapley emphasizes the importance of strength training for all athletes, including runners, to prevent muscle loss and improve overall health. She encourages women to challenge societal norms and pursue their fitness goals without fear of judgment.

Takeaways

The book 'Strong Like Her' celebrates rule breakers, history makers, and unstoppable athletes, with stunning pictures of 23 amazing athletes.

Strength training can change your perception of your body and improve performance in various sports, including running.

Setting goals and challenging yourself is an important part of the fitness journey.

The gym environment has become more welcoming for women, but there is still work to be done to create an inclusive space for everyone. Women in the bodybuilding world have faced challenges and stereotypes, including myths about fertility and femininity.

Societal expectations have categorized strength as masculine and weakness as feminine, leading to binary thinking.

Strength training is important for all athletes, including runners, to prevent muscle loss and improve overall health.

Challenging societal norms and pursuing fitness goals can lead to empowerment and a stronger relationship with one's body.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Book Collaboration

08:51 The Power of Strength Training in Sports

29:10 Challenging Fitness Myths and Stereotypes

39:08 The Impact of Binary Thinking

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Tim Nooney discusses his transition from rock climbing to trail and ultra running, and his experience in the Asheville running community. He shares how he was drawn to the friendly and welcoming nature of the East Coast running community, particularly in Asheville, North Carolina. Tim also talks about his love for adventure and pushing his limits, both in climbing and ultra running. He reflects on the dangers and risks involved in climbing and how he found a safer outlet for exploration and boundary-pushing in ultra running. Tim also discusses his two-year hiatus from running and his decision to focus on climbing during that time. Tim Nooney shares his experience of running a challenging race and realizing that his motivation and passion for running had diminished. He made the decision to step away from running and became a wilderness therapy guide, helping adults with drug and alcohol rehabilitation in the wilderness. Tim discusses the transformative experiences he witnessed in his clients and the challenges he faced in his role. Eventually, Tim felt the urge to return to running and found a renewed passion for the sport. He now represents La Sportiva as an athlete and discusses their latest shoe, the Prodigio, which features an infused nitrogen midsole for added springiness.

Takeaways

The East Coast running community, particularly in Asheville, North Carolina, is known for its friendliness and welcoming nature.

Tim Nooney transitioned from rock climbing to trail and ultra running as a safer outlet for adventure and boundary-pushing.

He found fulfillment in ultra running by exploring vast distances in the wilderness and pushing his limits.

Tim reflects on the dangers and risks involved in climbing and how he decided to focus on climbing during a two-year hiatus from running. Tim Nooney made the difficult decision to step away from running after realizing that his motivation and passion had diminished.

He became a wilderness therapy guide, helping adults with drug and alcohol rehabilitation in the wilderness.

Tim witnessed transformative experiences in his clients and learned valuable lessons about communication and relationships.

After some time, Tim felt the urge to return to running and found a renewed passion for the sport.

He now represents La Sportiva as an athlete and discusses their latest shoe, the Prodigio, which features an infused nitrogen midsole for added springiness.

Chapters

00:00 The Friendly and Welcoming East Coast Running Community

09:38 Exploring Vast Distances and Pushing Limits in Ultra Running

33:58 Stepping Away from Running

43:08 Transformative Experiences in Therapy

51:46 Rediscovering a Passion for Running

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