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Becoming Ultra

Becoming Ultra is all about that first Ultra. We follow other runners training for their first Ultra, interview race directors of Ultra's, talk training tips, and just about anything for that next, very long, step.
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Becoming Ultra
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Now displaying: April, 2025
Apr 30, 2025

In this episode of Becoming Ultra, Deidra shares her inspiring journey to becoming an ultrarunner, detailing her training, race experience, and the personal growth she achieved along the way. From overcoming physical challenges like back surgery to embracing the beauty of the of Mendocino, Deidra's story highlights the importance of mindset and perseverance. She reflects on her post-race recovery and the lessons learned, giving some words of encouragment to other new runners out there!

 

Chapters

00:00 Deidre's Journey to Becoming an Ultrarunner
02:52 The Race Experience: Challenges and Triumphs
06:00 Post-Race Reflections and Recovery
09:03 Mindset and Overcoming Life's Challenges
11:58 Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Advice for Others

Run with us!

Apr 21, 2025
In this episode, Scott Jones introduces Jackson Brill, a coach based in Bend, Oregon.
 
They discuss Jackson's background, his experiences in teaching and coaching, and his love for outdoor sports and trail running. Jackson shares insights about growing up in Boise, Idaho, and his educational journey in integrative physiology.  They discuss the balance between the art and science of coaching, and the differences between in-person and virtual coaching dynamics. Jackson shares his coaching philosophy, emphasizing simplicity and enjoyment in training, while also highlighting the importance of stable relationships with athletes. The conversation wraps up with memorable race experiences and the lessons learned from them.
 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jackson Brill
02:08 Life in Bend, Oregon
06:52 Teaching Style and Experiences
11:04 Growing Up in Boise, Idaho
17:03 Education and Background in Physiology
22:24 The Challenge of Wingate Testing
25:15 The Art of Coaching vs. Science
27:45 In-Person vs. Virtual Coaching Dynamics
31:11 Coaching Philosophy and Simplicity
36:38 Building Harmonious Coach-Athlete Relationships
38:50 Memorable Race Experiences and Lessons Learned

 

Apply to the project!

Apr 17, 2025
In this episode, Scott Jones and Deidra discuss her journey leading up to her first 50K race. They explore her training experiences, the challenges she faced, and the mental preparation required for such an event. Deidra shares her excitement and gratitude for the support she has received from her family and friends, as well as her strategies for race day, including nutrition and hydration. The conversation emphasizes the importance of mindset, community support, and the joy of running.
 

Chapters

00:00 Preparing for the 50K Adventure
03:02 Building Confidence and Overcoming Challenges
05:57 Training Insights and Strategies
09:01 Race Day Logistics and Mindset
11:59 Nutrition and Hydration Strategies
14:58 Mental Preparation for the Race
18:01 Support Systems and Community
21:02 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

 

The project for new ultra runners!

Apr 17, 2025

In this episode of Becoming Ultra, Scott Jones, Denise, and Addie discuss the journey of preparing for an ultra marathon, focusing on the challenges of tapering, dealing with injuries, and the importance of mindset. Denise shares her recent experience with an injury and how she is managing her nerves leading up to the race. The conversation also covers race strategies, nutrition, and the significance of having a support system throughout the training process.

 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey
03:51 Tapering and Illness: A Common Challenge
06:47 Denise's Injury and Recovery
11:16 Mindset and Pre-Race Nerves
16:38 Race Strategy and Nutrition
22:19 Setting Goals and Expectations
27:23 Support System and Shout Outs

 

The project for you!

Apr 14, 2025
Today Scott and race director Sid discuss the upcoming Mendocino Coast 50K, focusing on pre-race nerves, logistics, course strategy, aid stations, and post-race activities. Sid shares insights on how to prepare mentally and physically for the race, emphasizing the importance of pacing and the unique features of the course. They also touch on the community aspect of the race and the support available for both runners and spectators.
 

Chapters

00:00 Pre-Race Insights and Nerves
03:03 Race Logistics and Packet Pickup
05:59 Course Overview and Strategy for First Timers
09:08 Aid Stations and Nutrition
11:57 Spectator Information and Post-Race Activities
15:11 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Apply for the Becoming Ultra Project here
Apr 7, 2025

In this conversation, Denise shares her experiences and insights from her recent marathon as she prepares for her first ultra marathon. The discussion covers her mental and physical state post-marathon, the challenges she faced during the race, and her recovery process. Addie provides guidance on navigating the next steps in training, emphasizing the importance of listening to one's body and adapting plans as needed. The conversation highlights the excitement of marathon running, the lessons learned, and the strategies for effective recovery and preparation for future races.

Chapters

00:00 Preparing for the Ultra: Mental and Physical State
05:57 Marathon Experience: Lessons Learned and Challenges Faced
11:56 Recovery and Future Plans: Navigating the Next Steps

Trail camp

Our first ultra event. 

Apr 2, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Scott and Cassidy Randall explore the world of freelance writing, the impact of AI on creativity, and the adventures that inspire Cassidy's work.
 
They discuss the challenges of the writing industry, the importance of vulnerability in creative pursuits, and share personal stories about their journeys in the outdoor and writing realms. They discusses the challenges and opportunities of navigating social media as a writer, the value of platforms like Substack for building community and sharing stories, and her journey in writing her book '30 Below,' which highlights the first all-women's ascent of Denali.
 
She reflects on the impact of trailblazing women in mountaineering and shares personal adventures that inspire her work. The discussion emphasizes the importance of storytelling, community, and the legacies of those who break barriers in their fields.
 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties
02:09 Getting to Know Cassidy Randall
03:11 The State of Freelance Writing
06:30 The Impact of AI on Writing
07:39 Exploring Influential Writers
10:09 Living in Missoula, Montana
12:42 Cassidy's Journey to Writing
21:06 The Vulnerability of Writing
26:14 Navigating the Social Media Landscape
28:42 The Value of Substack and Community Building
30:10 Exploring the Journey of Writing and Publishing
34:50 Unveiling the Story Behind '30 Below'
46:32 Impact and Legacy of Trailblazing Women
53:04 Personal Adventures and Inspirations

Cassidy's book is here!

Check out her website.
 
Find your own adventures!
 
Apr 1, 2025

In this episode, Scott Jones, Carrie, and her coach Ian Sharman discuss Carrie's journey as she pivots from training for her first ultra marathon to participating in the Napa Valley Half Marathon. They explore the challenges she faced, including injuries and mental health struggles, and how she found closure in her athletic identity. The conversation emphasizes the importance of adapting expectations, embracing change, and setting short-term goals that bring joy to the fitness journey.

 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Carrie's Journey
01:24 Carrie's Experience at the Napa Valley Half Marathon
07:04 Reflections on Improvement and Injuries
09:35 Finding Closure and Acceptance
13:19 The Evolution of an Athlete
18:08 Looking Forward: Embracing Change
22:26 Short-Term Goals and Enjoyment in Fitness

 

Apply to the Becoming Ultra Project here!

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