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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Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com
Email: JourneyRunningLLC@gmail.com
Instagram: Journey_Running
Facebook: Journey_Running
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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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Journey Running Links

Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com
Email: JourneyRunningLLC@gmail.com
Instagram: Journey_Running
Facebook: Journey_Running
Tiktok: JourneyRunning

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

Send us a text

Journey Running Links

Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com
Email: JourneyRunningLLC@gmail.com
Instagram: Journey_Running
Facebook: Journey_Running
Tiktok: JourneyRunning