In this episode, Stefan Schuster discusses his new book Beyond the Singletrack, sharing insights on ultrarunning, personal growth, and life lessons learned through endurance sports. He also details the writing process, inspirations, and how running shapes character and success.

Book Summary:

From middle school miles and marathons to some of the most demanding ultramarathons in the world – including the Moab 240, Sangre de Cristo 100, Bear 100, Bighorn 100, and more – Beyond the Singletrack follows a journey shaped by endurance, love, failure, and persistence.

But this isn’t just a collection of race stories. Each chapter reflects on mental health, identity, relationships, and even the meaning of life. Running has a way of challenging how we set goals, define success, and respond to adversity. It exposes who we are and what it means to pursue something that matters. This book asks the questions from the trail.

I hope these words stay with you beyond the singletrack. I hope they shape how you live, think, and show up in life. I hope they challenge you to refine your values, and ultimately, to become a better person through the pursuit of what you love. 

This is more than a sport. This is how you learn to live.

Pre-order your signed copy here: https://www.journeyruncoaching.com/book

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In this episode of the Journey Running Podcast, Stefan Schuster interviews Jill Wilkins, a remarkable ultrarunner who recently completed the Cocodona 250.  They discuss her journey from beginner to 250-mile finisher, overcoming challenges like eating disorders, and  life-changing lessons learned through ultrarunning.

Jill also walks listeners through her experience at this year's Cocodona 250, highlighting the highs and lows of her journey. Jill talks about how doing something she though was once impossible - running 250 miles - changed her life and how you can too.

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In this episode, I share my detailed experience at the Jackpot 100. I cover race strategy, mental toughness, self-care, social interactions, lessons learned from running on concrete and review my performance as well. This episode offers valuable insights, tips & tricks for ultrarunners who are looking to improve their race approach and mindset at looped ultras. I also give a detailed report of my day before the event, which was unfortunately eventful.

Chapters

00:24 Introduction to Journey Running Podcast
 04:40 Pre-Race Preparations and Challenges
 24:18 Race Day Experience and Strategy
 33:51 Mental Toughness in Ultra Running
 34:18 The Mental Cycle of Ultra Running
 36:39 Self-Care Strategies During Races
 40:55 Challenges of Running on Concrete
 45:32 Social Connections in Ultra Running
 53:29 The Role of Music in Performance
 01:00:57 Performance Goals and Reflections
 01:06:41 Celebrating Achievements in Ultra Running
 01:07:51 Introduction to Trail and Ultra Running
 01:08:19 Closing Thoughts

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In this episode, Stefan Schuster interviews Josh Sprague, founder of Orange Mud and Seven Clay where they explore his journey from endurance athlete to successful entrepreneur. They discuss industry changes, product innovation, and the importance of perseverance and positivity.

Josh also shares a few of the many stories he has amassed from his time as an adventure racing participant. He discusses safety in ultra running and how important navigation skills are, in being a successful outdoor adventurer.

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Chapters

00:24 Introduction to Josh Sprague and His Companies
 13:36 Josh's Endurance Journey and Passion for Trail Running
 18:56 The Evolution of Adventure Racing and Its Challenges
 21:44 The Birth of Orange Mud: A Solution to Gear Frustrations
 37:13 Turning Ideas into Reality: The Challenges of Product Development
 37:42 Overcoming Manufacturing Challenges
 43:34 Navigating the Advertising Landscape
 48:35 Evolution of the Outdoor Gear Industry
 55:12 Balancing Family Life and Entrepreneurship
 58:01 The Birth of New Ventures
 01:07:20 Lessons from a Life-Altering Adventure
 01:13:32 Introduction to Trail and Ultra Running
 01:14:00 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

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In this episode, Stefan Schuster interviews ultrarunning Race Director John Lacroix, owner and founder of the Human Potential Running Series. John has directed the second-most ultramarathons in the sport’s history and has completed 24 100-mile races himself.

Drawing from his experience as both a race director and an athlete, John reflects on the evolution of ultrarunning since he entered the sport in 2005, his transition from competitor to race director, and the core values that shape the ultrarunning community. He also shares thoughtful perspectives on the sport’s future, including its relationship with land management agencies, the tension between grassroots culture and corporate influence, and what it will take to preserve the spirit of ultrarunning as it grows.

For more information about the Human Potential Running Series, please visit: https://humanpotentialrunning.com/

Chapters:

00:24 Introduction to John LaCroix and His Achievements
 08:32 The Evolution of Ultra Running and Race Directing
 11:22 The Challenge of Niwot and Its Unique Format
 14:35 The Barkley Marathons: A Hot Take on Newcomers
 17:26 The Importance of Map and Compass Skills
 20:34 John's Journey into Ultra Running
 23:32 The Changing Landscape of Ultra Running
 26:36 The Role of Social Media in Ultra Running
 29:30 Transitioning from Runner to Race Director
 32:44 Values Behind Human Potential Running Series
 38:10 The Evolution of Human Potential Running Series
 39:38 Challenging Traditional Race Values
 42:23 Inclusivity and Diversity in Ultra Running
 48:52 Understanding Justice and Neurodivergence
 01:02:29 The Future of Ultra Running and Personal Growth
 01:17:54 Introduction to the Current State of Racing
 01:18:38 The Evolution of Race Registration and Participation
 01:21:06 Community and Volunteerism in Racing
 01:25:42 The Shift from Community to Business in Racing
 01:27:33 The Extraction Phase of Ultra Running
 01:37:22 The Future of Grassroots Racing
 01:38:59 Permitting Challenges in the U.S. vs. Europe
 01:45:13 The Future of Trail Racing and Land Management
 01:48:43 The Oligarchy of Trail Running
 01:51:45 Balancing Tradition and Modernization in Trail Running
 01:54:41 Creativity in Race Directing and Event Concepts
 01:57:46 Reflections on FKTs and Their Impact
 02:01:26 The Journey of a Race Director and Personal Growth
 02:17:34 Introduction to Trail and Ultra Running
 02:18:02 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

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In this episode of the Journey Running Podcast, host Stefan Schuster speaks with Boulder Burrito League champions Kelsey Lakowske and Sean Hollister about their journey into ultrarunning, the Burrito League challenge, and the importance of community in the sport. Kelsey & Sean talk about how they ran their first 100 miler on the last day of the Burrito League challenge, lessons learned from that experience and the joy of competition. They emphasize the significance of curiosity, competition, and community in their running endeavors, and how these elements contribute to their overall motivation and enjoyment in the sport.

Chapters

00:24 Introduction to the Journey Running Podcast
 03:14 Meet the Boulder Burrito League Champions
 06:24 Understanding the Burrito League Challenge
 09:23 Personal Journeys into Ultra Running
 12:24 The Importance of Community in Running
 15:32 Strategies for Success in the Burrito League
 18:12 The Final Day of the Burrito League
 21:29 Reflections on Competition and Community
 39:24 Nutrition Strategies for Endurance Racing
 43:24 Post-Race Reflections and Mental Health
 48:28 The Power of Community in Ultra Running
 52:20 Lessons Learned from the Burrito League
 01:00:25 Personal Journeys and Growth Through Running

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In this episode of the Journey Running Podcast, host Stefan Schuster speaks with Registered Dietitian, Alyssa Lieb about the intersection of nutrition and ultrarunning. They discuss Alyssa's journey to becoming a dietitian and ultrarunner, the importance of adequate fueling for athletes, and the anti-diet approach that focuses on habits rather than weight. The conversation also covers the repercussions of inadequate fueling and nutrition during long runs and races. They particularly dive into the high carb philosophy which has gaining traction in the ultra running community and hydration/electrolyte balance. They discuss the unique physiological aspects of female athletes, including the implications of menstrual cycles and hormonal changes which nutrition can impact. The conversation also touches on public health and the recent changes in dietary guidelines, highlighting the potential impact on athletes. Finally, they explore the light-hearted topic of the Burrito League, emphasizing the nutritional value of burritos and their place in an athlete's diet.

Contact info for Alyssa Leib:
Instagram: ayssaoutside_rd
Website: https://www.peaktopeaknutrition.com

Chapters

 00:24 Introduction to Alyssa Lieb and Her Journey
 07:46 The Anti-Diet Dietitian Philosophy
 10:49 Understanding Weight Loss Goals in Athletes
 13:35 The Importance of Adequate Fueling
 16:23 Intuitive Eating and Its Role in Performance
 19:31 Nutrition Strategies for Bone Health
 22:32 The Pathology of Under-Fueling
 25:29 Safe Weight Loss Strategies for Athletes
 28:24 Fueling During Exercise and Race Preparation
 30:50 Elisa's Experience with Ultra Running
 33:53 Vertical Kilometer Races and Their Unique Challenges
 38:05 Understanding Vertical Kilometers
 40:23 Fueling Philosophy for Endurance Races
 43:38 The High Carb Philosophy in Ultra Running
 46:20 Hydration and Electrolyte Management
 58:22 Gender Differences in Athletic Nutrition
 01:03:22 Understanding Female Health Signals
 01:05:50 The Impact of Menopause on Health
 01:07:01 Navigating New Dietary Guidelines
 01:13:50 The Burrito League and Nutrition Philosophy
 01:23:39 Personal Journeys and Professional Growth
 01:26:12 Introduction to Trail and Ultra Running
 01:26:34 Coaching and Nutrition for Runners

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In this episode of the Journey Running Podcast, host Stefan Schuster shares his detailed race report of the Leadville 100, an iconic ultra marathon. He discusses tons of coaching advice, sports science and general tips and tricks to succeed at this race including his preparation, strategies for nutrition and hydration, and the importance of efficient aid station transitions. Throughout the conversation, Stefan emphasizes the significance of pacing, especially in the early miles, and shares insights on preparing for the challenging climbs and descents this race offers, particularly on the challenging Hope Pass. Stefan also covers key aspects such as altitude acclimatization, race preparation and the importance of having a supportive pacer. He reflects on his performance, the challenges faced during the race, and the lessons learned that can benefit other ultra runners.

Enjoy!

Chapters

00:24 The Calm Before the Race
 19:08 Navigating Challenges in Ultra Running
 22:25 Efficient Aid Station Strategies
 25:13 Training for Varied Terrain
 28:26 Mastering Downhill Running
 31:15 The Importance of Crew and Support
 34:27 Hydration and Nutrition Strategies
 37:12 Preparing for Hope Pass
 40:05 Altitude Acclimatization and Its Myths
 43:25 The Descent and Mental Preparation
 46:17 Thermal Regulation and Staying Cool
 49:06 Final Thoughts on Race Strategy
 01:00:47 Climbing Challenges and Hydration Insights
 01:03:38 Knee Pain and Recovery Strategies
 01:06:03 Aid Station Experiences and Crew Support
 01:09:15 Pacing Dynamics and Race Comparisons
 01:17:24 Final Stretch: Mental and Physical Struggles
 01:29:41 Lessons Learned and Future Strategies

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In this episode of the Journey Running Podcast, host Stefan Schuster welcomes TJ Harms-Synkiew, an ultrarunner with a diverse background in trail running, seasonal work and trail maintenance to the show. Together they discuss the importance of trail work, TJ's transition to ultra running, and the mental challenges faced in endurance sports. TJ shares his journey from completing his first marathon to tackling 100-mile races, timed events and backyard ultras. In this conversation, TJ shares his experiences and insights on these unique event formats, the appeal of timed events plus loop courses and the unique mindset required to succeed in these events. TJ also discusses the strategies that have worked for him in backyard racing along with the importance of finding balance in ultrarunning to prevent burnout (spoiler alert: fun should be the primary goal!). We also discuss the necessity of discipline in training and TJ's personal journey of living life on his own terms as he navigates his running career.

Chapters
 00:24 Show Introduction
 02:57 TJ's Introduction, Seasonal Work and Its Impact on Life Choices
 08:45 Trail Work: The Importance and Challenges
 11:50 Experiences with Trail Work and Community Involvement
 14:40 The Role of Volunteers in Trail Maintenance
 17:43 Daily Life of a Trail Worker
 20:41 The Chavano Project and Trail Development
 23:49 Social Trails: Perspectives and Implications
 26:45 Transitioning to Ultra Running: A Personal Journey
 29:52 The Journey to Ultra Running
 35:16 Building Confidence Through Challenges
 38:47 The Loop Race Experience
 49:37 Mindset in Timed Events vs Fixed Distances
 53:12 Understanding Backyard Ultras
 58:20 Mastering Compartmentalization in Ultra Running
 59:18 Strategies for Backyard Ultra Racing
 01:04:42 Finding Balance in Ultra Running
 01:07:38 The Importance of Fun in Racing
 01:11:37 Building a Sustainable Running Routine
 01:17:31 Living Life on Your Own Terms
 01:20:54 Navigating Life's Journey Through Running
 01:23:48 Introduction to Trail and Ultra Running
 01:24:17 Coaching and Nutrition Insights

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In this episode of the Journey Running Podcast, host Stefan Schuster welcomes trail medic and ultra runner Natasha Swartley. They discuss Natasha's journey from military service to trail running, her experiences as a medic, and the importance of optimism and resilience in both life and running. Natasha shares her insights on mental health, the impact of running on her well-being, and her nutrition journey with her dietitian. In this conversation, Natasha Swartley shares her insights on trail running safety, the mental state of runners, and the importance of making healthy decisions during races. She discusses the dynamics between medics and runners, emphasizing the need for open communication and understanding. Natasha also reflects on her journey as a trail medic and the entrepreneurial path she has taken to support runners through self-care and education.

Chapters
00:24 Introduction to Natasha Swartley
 03:20 Military Background and Its Influence
 06:23 The Journey to Becoming a Trail Medic
 12:18 Optimism and Personal Growth
 15:08 Trail Running Experience and Community
 24:12 Mental Health and Overcoming Challenges
 30:06 The Supportive Community of Ultra Running
 32:22 Experiencing the Tahoe 200
 37:48 Nutrition and Health Awareness
 42:50 Trail Safety and Foot Care
 46:27 Mental State and Decision Making in Races
 52:44 Breaking the Stigma: Medics and Runners
 54:08 Personal Experiences with Medics
 01:01:23 The Role of Medics in Trail Running
 01:03:41 Building a Business in Trail Medicine
 01:12:34 Life Lessons from Military Service

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