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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