Unstoppable Ultra Runner

Most runners approach ultras braced for the worst, convinced that earning a buckle requires matching the course difficulty with an equal amount of misery. But this mindset trap doesn't prepare you for the race - it just weighs you down before you even reach the starting line. In this episode, I share how believing your race could go better than expected isn't naive or arrogant. It's a legitimate possibility that changes everything.

For full show notes, transcript PDF, and more information, visit https://www.susanidonnelly.com/14

Connect with Susan:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanidonnelly

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanidonnelly

Mentioned in this episode:

Do you have a big race coming up?

I can help you make the most of all that training. My signature, proven process for planning a race is now open for registration. It’s called Race Crafting and it gives you four one-on-one coaching sessions with me.

Register and Learn More About Race Crafting Here

In this episode, I’m diving into one of the most effective strategies for avoiding burnout: the planned break. Many runners fear taking a break, believing they’ll lose fitness or fall off track. But in reality, taking a break with purpose is essential for sustaining your passion and energy for the long haul. Discover how you can incorporate these breaks into your training schedule, making them a powerful tool for long-term success.

For full show notes, transcript PDF, and more information, visit https://www.susanidonnelly.com/13

Connect with Susan:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanidonnelly

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanidonnelly

Mentioned in this episode:

Do you have a big race coming up?

I can help you make the most of all that training. My signature, proven process for planning a race is now open for registration. It’s called Race Crafting and it gives you four one-on-one coaching sessions with me.

Register and Learn More About Race Crafting Here

Most ultra runners who feel exhausted or unmotivated actually aren’t experiencing true burnout. Instead, you might be dealing with fatigue, stress, or temporary dips in motivation. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly what burnout is and, more importantly, what it isn’t. You'll learn to distinguish real burnout from its common impersonators and discover why thinking everything is burnout can keep you stuck. You’ll also learn how to recognize when you’re really on the edge of burnout, so you can take action before it takes over.

For full show notes, transcript PDF, and more information, visit https://www.susanidonnelly.com/12

Connect with Susan:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanidonnelly

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanidonnelly

Mentioned in this episode:

Do you have a big race coming up?

I can help you make the most of all that training. My signature, proven process for planning a race is now open for registration. It’s called Race Crafting and it gives you four one-on-one coaching sessions with me.

Register and Learn More About Race Crafting Here

Dropping out of races creates a particular kind of shame that goes beyond simple disappointment. In this episode, I break down why asking "What's wrong with me?" after DNFs keeps you stuck in shame and poor performance. You’ll learn a simple three-column process to turn painful race experiences into actionable solutions and how to separate race outcomes from your worth, allowing you to race from possibility, not fear.

For full show notes, transcript PDF, and more information, visit https://www.susanidonnelly.com/11

Connect with Susan:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanidonnelly

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanidonnelly

Mentioned in this episode:

Do you have a big race coming up?

I can help you make the most of all that training. My signature, proven process for planning a race is now open for registration. It’s called Race Crafting and it gives you four one-on-one coaching sessions with me.

Register and Learn More About Race Crafting Here

You want to build a cushion on cutoff… what’s your strategy? Most runners sprint off the line, trying to build a buffer early, but end up trashed in an aid station. What if you had the mindset tools to let the pack get ahead, then slowly start passing people, one after another?  Tune in this week for a new strategy for building a cushion on cutoff. This patient approach transforms the race from a survival battle into a controlled, strategic effort where you finish strong instead of just hanging on.

For full show notes, transcript PDF, and more information, visit https://www.susanidonnelly.com/10

Connect with Susan:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanidonnelly

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanidonnelly

Mentioned in this episode:

Do you have a big race coming up?

I can help you make the most of all that training. My signature, proven process for planning a race is now open for registration. It’s called Race Crafting and it gives you four one-on-one coaching sessions with me.

Register and Learn More About Race Crafting Here

A disappointing race result can leave us confused, gutted, and questioning everything about our training and abilities. Today, I'm sharing how to transform that disappointing race experience into valuable data that will make you stronger. I'll walk through the three essential steps for mental recovery after a challenging race and, through a real client example, I'll demonstrate how this process can turn a devastating DNF into the foundation for eventual 100-mile success.

For full show notes, transcript PDF, and more information, visit https://www.susanidonnelly.com/9

Connect with Susan:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanidonnelly

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanidonnelly

Mentioned in this episode:

Introducing: 1:1 Mental Mastery Coaching for Ultrarunners

My 1:1 Mental Mastery Coaching for Ultrarunners is a six-month coaching program where we build the mental skills experienced ultrarunners use to handle difficult races well.

Click here to book your free consult call!

When races get difficult, our brains flood us with worst-case scenarios and reasons to quit. While staying present and focusing on the next step ahead can help calm racing thoughts, this approach alone isn't always enough. Sometimes it can actually prevent us from thinking strategically and managing our race effectively. Today, I share my strategy for what to actually focus on when things get hard.

For full show notes, transcript PDF, and more information, visit https://www.susanidonnelly.com/8

Connect with Susan:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanidonnelly

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanidonnelly

Mentioned in this episode:

Do you have a big race coming up?

I can help you make the most of all that training. My signature, proven process for planning a race is now open for registration. It’s called Race Crafting and it gives you four one-on-one coaching sessions with me.

Register and Learn More About Race Crafting Here

You’ll learn how to spot the signs that you're mentally checking out, why your “why” might not be helping, and what to do instead. I’ll share how to turn a distant goal into something emotionally powerful and actionable—so you’re not relying on willpower alone. If you’re ready to fight for your race when it gets hard, this is where you start.

For full show notes, transcript PDF, and more information, visit https://www.susanidonnelly.com/7

Connect with Susan:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanidonnelly

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanidonnelly

Mentioned in this episode:

Do you have a big race coming up?

I can help you make the most of all that training. My signature, proven process for planning a race is now open for registration. It’s called Race Crafting and it gives you four one-on-one coaching sessions with me.

Register and Learn More About Race Crafting Here

You’ve probably heard that ultra running is 90% mental, yet most of us were never taught how to properly train our brains. We try random mental tricks or repeat mantras that crumble when the race gets difficult. The truth is, mental training isn't about motivational quotes or occasional pep talks—it's a systematic approach that requires consistent practice, just like building physical endurance and strength.

For full show notes, transcript PDF, and more information, visit https://www.susanidonnelly.com/6

Connect with Susan:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanidonnelly

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanidonnelly

Mentioned in this episode:

Do you have a big race coming up?

I can help you make the most of all that training. My signature, proven process for planning a race is now open for registration. It’s called Race Crafting and it gives you four one-on-one coaching sessions with me.

Register and Learn More About Race Crafting Here

Find out why your big goals aren’t supposed to feel easy. Whether you're training for your first ultra, or setting yourself a target that stretches you, what I share today will help you see setbacks in a new light, while helping you build the mindset that gets you to the finish line every time.

For full show notes, transcript PDF, and more information, visit https://www.susanidonnelly.com/5

Connect with Susan:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanidonnelly

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanidonnelly

Mentioned in this episode:

Do you have a big race coming up?

I can help you make the most of all that training. My signature, proven process for planning a race is now open for registration. It’s called Race Crafting and it gives you four one-on-one coaching sessions with me.

Register and Learn More About Race Crafting Here