We dive into the importance of post-race recovery, the mental challenges faced during endurance events, and the significance of emotional awareness and language in understanding one's feelings. Emphasizing the need for personal growth and the ability to identify emotions, especially in the context of endurance sports. Exploring the complexities of emotions experienced during ultra running, emphasizing the importance of emotional awareness and identification. We discuss how negative emotions like anger and disappointment can manifest during races and the significance of recognizing these feelings to improve performance and mental health. Touching on generational trauma related to anger and the necessity of breaking these cycles for future generations. We advocate for training both physically and emotionally to foster a healthier mindset in running and life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Community Engagement

03:06 Trail Work and Race Preparation

05:57 Post-Race Recovery and Mental Challenges

09:02 Emotional Awareness and Language

11:53 Identifying Emotions and Personal Growth

27:26 Navigating Emotional Low Points

30:13 The Importance of Emotional Awareness

35:04 Generational Anger and Its Impact

41:11 Breaking the Cycle of Anger

44:58 Training Your Emotions for Success

50:42 Understanding and Identifying Emotions

54:46 Emotions as Guides, Not Decision Makers

Earning my 4th Cruel Jewel 100 buckle was a hard fought battle but we crossed the finish line. I am so grateful for my friends and the support that went into getting this race done. I couldn't have done this alone.

This race is truly special and the community surrounding it and the RD's are beyond amazing.

104 miles 32,650 feet of elevation gain This race is not for the faint of heart.

Becca and Jon discuss their experiences with self-checkout systems and the frustrations that arise from inefficient shoppers. They transition into a detailed conversation about the upcoming Cruel Jewel 100 race, sharing insights on the challenges it presents, including significant elevation gain and the mental preparation required. Reflecting on past experiences with the race, emphasizing the importance of community and camaraderie, as well as the impact of weather conditions on race day. They discuss the importance of setting realistic goals, maintaining mental clarity, and the unique experiences offered by races like the Cruel Jewel. The conversation also touches on the community aspect of ultra running and the complexities of human nature within sports, emphasizing the need for understanding and acceptance among participants.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Ultra Crewed Podcast

01:55 Self-Checkout Etiquette and Frustrations

10:25 Preparing for the Cruel Jewel 100

20:45 Experiences and Challenges of Cruel Jewel 100

29:43 The Journey of Endurance Racing

32:36 Mental Resilience in Racing

35:57 Realistic Goal Setting

37:23 The Importance of Mental Clarity

39:44 The Cruel Jewel Experience

42:54 Community and Competition in Ultra Running

46:49 Understanding Human Nature in Sports

54:43 Looking Ahead to Future Challenges

In this episode of the UltraCrewed podcast, hosts Becca and Jon discuss their recent experiences, including Becca's pet-sitting adventures and upcoming exams. They engage in a fun game to create the perfect ultra marathon, followed by a humorous debate on whether 100 men could defeat a gorilla. The conversation shifts to the phenomenon of the 'sophomore slump' in racing, where returning participants often struggle to meet their previous performance levels. Finally, they touch on the importance of safety and protection while running, especially in light of recent events. In this conversation, Becca and Jon discuss various aspects of running, focusing on personal safety, training methods, the importance of encouragement and support, and the need for authenticity within the running community. They share insights on how to navigate safety while running, the significance of different training techniques, and the value of having a supportive network, especially for those who may not fully understand the challenges of ultra running. The discussion emphasizes gratitude and the importance of being genuine in the running community.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Weekend Wrap-Up

05:09 Creating Your Perfect Race

10:07 The Great Gorilla Debate

18:53 Sophomore Slump in Racing

29:21 Safety and Protection While Running

29:51 Personal Safety While Running

39:33 The Importance of Training Methods

43:01 Encouragement and Support in Running

54:03 Authenticity in the Running Community

In this episode of the Ultra Crew podcast, hosts Becca and Jon discuss their experiences at the Feral Mountain 100, including the challenges faced during the race, the emotional toll of quitting, and the importance of community support. The conversation highlights the struggles and triumphs of ultra running, emphasizing the personal journey and the impact of mental health on performance. Exploring the complexities of mental health in sports and the commitment to personal growth, emphasizing that the journey is as important as the destination.

Takeaways

• The Feral Mountain 100 was a challenging yet beautiful race.

• Mental health plays a significant role in performance and decision-making.
• Quitting can be a complex emotional process with many contributing factors.

• Pacing can provide a fresh perspective and energy during a race.
• The fight or flight response can significantly impact racing performance.
• Personal struggles can overshadow the joy of running for some individuals.
• Support from friends and community can help navigate tough emotional moments. The emotional journey of ultra running can be intense and draining.
• Growth is a key motivation for participating in endurance sports.
• Mental battles are inevitable during long races, and preparation is crucial.
• Trusting oneself is essential, especially in challenging situations.

• Acknowledging mental health challenges is important for athletes.
• It's okay to feel grumpy or overwhelmed during tough moments.
• The desire to push through is often accompanied by self-doubt.
• Experiencing failure can lead to valuable lessons and growth.
• Commitment to personal growth is a lifelong journey.

In this episode of the Ultra Crewed Podcast, hosts Becca and Jon delve into various themes surrounding ultra running, personal responsibility, and community engagement. They discuss the importance of acknowledging one's own actions and the impact of external factors on personal growth. The conversation also touches on the responsibilities of dog ownership, tips for running with long hair, and strategies to avoid burnout in the sport. Throughout the episode, they emphasize the significance of community support and the need for balance in one's running journey. In this episode, Becca and Jon discuss the importance of recovery and self-reflection in the context of ultra running, particularly as they prepare for the Feral Mountain 100. They delve into training insights, gear and nutrition planning, and the logistics of crew coordination for race day. The conversation emphasizes the mental preparation required for long-distance running and the significance of having a well-organized support system. As they anticipate the race, they share their excitement and strategies for success.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Ultra Crewed Podcast

01:45 Responsibility in Ultra Running and Life

09:16 The Dog Debate: Love and Responsibility

13:52 Running with Long Hair: Tips and Tricks

18:28 Avoiding Burnout in Ultra Running

30:16 The Importance of Recovery and Self-Reflection

32:07 Preparing for the Feral Mountain 100

34:31 Training Insights and Mental Preparation

37:14 Gear and Nutrition Planning for Ultra Running

52:17 Crew Coordination and Logistics for Race Day

56:58 Final Thoughts and Anticipation for the Race

• "It's your responsibility to know the course."
• "I love dogs. Truly, truly do."
• "You can't hoard all the energy."
• "No one cares more than you care."
• "It's cool to run ultras, but nobody's calling."
• "You have to prioritize rest and rejuvenation."
• "There's gotta be recovery for the work."
• "Maybe you need to step back, look inward."
• "You just ruined someone else's day."
• "I'm excited to get down there and run."
• "You should never be up as long as your runner."

Takeaways

• Responsibility for one's actions is crucial in both life and ultra running.
• People often deflect accountability onto others instead of self-reflecting.
• Dog ownership comes with responsibilities that affect the community.
• Running with long hair can be enjoyable but requires some care.
• Burnout in ultra running can stem from making the sport one's entire identity.
• Community engagement and volunteering can help prevent burnout.
• It's important to prioritize rest and rejuvenation in a busy lifestyle.
• Avoiding accountability is easier in today's social media-driven world.
• Self-evaluation is necessary for growth and improvement in running.
• No one cares more about your running achievements than you do. Recovery is essential for achieving goals.
• Self-reflection can help manage stress and burnout.
• Preparation for races includes both physical and mental aspects.
• Nutrition planning is crucial for endurance events.
• Having a reliable crew can significantly impact race performance.
• Organization of gear and supplies can save time during races.
• Communication with the crew is vital for smooth operations.

• Mental preparation is as important as physical training.

Becca and Jon discuss their recent experiences at various running events in Tennessee, emphasizing the importance of community and conservation efforts in preserving green spaces. They share insights on the challenges of running in busy parks, the etiquette of using Bluetooth speakers while running, and the necessity of keeping dogs on leashes in public spaces. The conversation highlights the joys and frustrations of the running community, as well as the beauty of nature and the need for responsible outdoor practices. In this conversation, Becca and Jon discuss the importance of respecting shared spaces and the consequences of one's actions. They reflect on personal experiences in outdoor settings, emphasizing accountability and the need for individuals to face the repercussions of their behavior. The dialogue also touches on societal norms, parenting, and the impact of social media on interpersonal interactions.

Takeaways

• The weather was perfect for running events.
• Community efforts are crucial for conservation in Tennessee.
• Races provide opportunities to explore unique trails.
• Quiet time in nature is essential for mental health.
• Bluetooth speakers can be disruptive on trails.
• Dog owners should always use leashes in public parks.
• Running events foster camaraderie among participants.
• Conservation trusts play a vital role in preserving land.
• Busy parks can detract from the joy of running.
• Respecting nature and fellow runners enhances the experience. Respecting shared spaces is crucial for community harmony.
• Accountability is a key aspect of personal growth.
• Facing consequences helps individuals mature and learn.
• Avoiding consequences can lead to a stunted sense of responsibility.
• Social media can distort real-life interactions and accountability.
• Understanding others' experiences fosters empathy in shared environments.
• Parents should model accountability for their children.
• Consequences of actions can be life-altering in outdoor activities.
• Everyone has a role in maintaining community standards.
• Learning from experiences is essential for personal development.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Ultra Crewed Podcast

01:09 Community and Conservation in Tennessee

03:30 Racing and Running Events

06:50 Experiences at Rim Runner Race

09:50 The Importance of Quiet in Nature

11:45 Bluetooth Speakers on the Trail

18:13 Dog Leash Etiquette in Parks

28:09 Navigating Shared Spaces and Rules

33:12 Consequences of Actions and Accountability

37:15 The Importance of Facing Consequences

43:43 Learning from Experience and Growth

51:36 Understanding Others and Shared Spaces

Becca and Jon discuss various topics related to ultra marathons, including the impact of weather on race conditions, the importance of hydration and electrolytes, and how to differentiate between injury and discomfort during races. They also talk about Tennessee's first 200 miler Big Al's. They also emphasize the need for runners to listen to their bodies and make informed decisions about their health and performance. Becca discusses her experiences with phantom pain, the mental resilience required in endurance sports, and the importance of distinguishing between discomfort and injury. They emphasize the need for safety and crew support during races, introduces the Big Al's 200, and shares insights on managing weather challenges during races. The conversation highlights the spirit of perseverance in ultra running and the benefits of accessible ultra events for building confidence.

• Weather can significantly impact race conditions.
• Hydration is crucial; don't rely solely on electrolyte drinks.
• Understanding the difference between injury and discomfort is vital.
• Listening to your body can prevent long-term injuries.
• Salt tablets can be more effective than electrolyte drinks alone.
• Track your calorie and electrolyte intake during races.
• Crew members should help monitor runners' nutrition.
• Pain signals can be misleading; focus on overall body mechanics.
• It's important to be cautious and not push through injuries.
• Runners should prioritize long-term health over short-term gains. Phantom pain can feel real but is often a mental construct.
• Ignoring phantom pain can prevent it from becoming a reality.
• Understanding the difference between discomfort and injury is crucial.
• Safety should always be prioritized in endurance sports.
• Crew support is essential for a positive racing experience.
• Big Owls is designed to be a laid-back ultra event.
• Weather can significantly impact race management and safety.
• Perseverance is key in ultra running, regardless of conditions.
• Accessible ultra events can build confidence for future challenges.
• The motivation to keep going must come from within.

In this episode of the Ultra Crewed Podcast, hosts Jon Cox and Becca Jones discuss their busy week, including race preparations and weekend fun. They address a listener's question about heart rate training for trail running, emphasizing the importance of slowing down and listening to one's body. The conversation also includes light-hearted personal questions, revealing insights into their preferences and habits.Exploreing the concept of wanting to do hard things, questioning the motivations behind this desire, and the deeper reasons for pursuing challenges. The discussion delves into personal growth, the importance of understanding one's 'why', and the transformative power of embracing adversity. Reflecting on experiences in ultra running and how they connect to self-discovery and resilience, ultimately emphasizing the significance of realizing one's potential through challenging experiences.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Weekly Recap

06:52 Race Preparation and Community Engagement

08:50 Listener Question: Heart Rate Training

16:02 Fun Personal Questions and Insights

27:28 The Desire to Do Hard Things

32:26 Exploring the Why Behind Hard Challenges

41:32 Embracing the Wild Within

49:42 Realizing Potential Through Adversity

• There are many hard challenges outside of physical activities like running.
• Sometimes, we want hard things to be easier rather than truly embracing the challenge.
• Understanding the deeper reasons for pursuing hard challenges can lead to personal growth.
• Facing adversity can reveal our true potential and capabilities.
• The journey of self-discovery often involves embracing discomfort and challenges.
• Community and connection play a vital role in overcoming difficult experiences.
• It's important to find activities that ignite passion and motivation within us.
• Realizing our potential can be a daunting but rewarding process.
• The pursuit of personal growth often requires a willingness to confront our inner struggles.

In this episode Becca Jones and Big Jon discuss their personal updates, including the challenges of the past week and their experiences at a recent race. They delve into the excitement of March Madness, particularly focusing on the Barkley Marathons, and share their thoughts on the post-race blues, emphasizing the hormonal changes that runners experience after completing a race. The conversation highlights the importance of community in ultra running and the emotional rollercoaster that follows significant events. In this conversation, they discuss the unique challenges faced by endurance athletes, particularly the paradox of achievement where completing a significant race can lead to feelings of weakness and isolation. They explore the phenomenon of post-race blues, offering strategies for recovery and community engagement. The conversation also delves into coping mechanisms for dealing with injuries and the mental health challenges that arise from them. Ultimately, emphasizing the importance of finding joy in activities beyond running and staying connected with the community.

Takeaways

• It's important to take time off for self-care.
• The Barkley Marathons is a significant event in ultra running.
• Post-race blues can be influenced by hormonal changes.
• Community support is vital in ultra running.
• Understanding the emotional impact of racing is crucial.
• Runners should be mindful of their recovery process.

• Being in an ultra running bubble can lead to a stark contrast with everyday life.
• It's okay to feel off after a big race.
• Finding the next goal can help alleviate post-race blues. Endurance sports often lack tangible rewards compared to other achievements.
• Post-race blues are common and can be addressed through reflection and community.
• Engaging in new activities can help combat feelings of isolation after a race.
• Volunteering in the running community can provide a sense of purpose post-race.
• Recognizing the normalcy of feeling down after a big event is crucial for recovery.
• Rest and quality sleep are essential for physical and mental recovery.
• Finding a new routine can help maintain a sense of normalcy after a race.
• Injuries require a shift in mindset and focus on alternative activities.
• Staying connected with a coach can provide support during recovery.
• The running community is always welcoming and can help alleviate feelings of loneliness.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates

10:47 March Madness and Barkley Marathons

20:22 Post-Race Blues and Hormonal Changes

29:04 The Paradox of Achievement in Endurance Sports

33:17 Navigating Post-Race Blues

34:05 Strategies for Recovery and Community Engagement

41:42 Coping with Injury and Mental Health

49:08 Finding Joy Beyond Running