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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: Category: My First Ultra
Mar 12, 2024

Chad Sullivan is a father, husband, writer, and ultra runner. He is the creator of Hard Prairie, a magazine and website that highlights the trail and ultra running community with human stories of vulnerability and beautiful photography that compliments each story.

We talked with Chad about his journey to sobriety and the changes it brought to his life. We learn about Chad’s running background and how he found his way to writing for Eat Clean, Run Dirty magazine and eventually starting Hard Prairie, a story telling magazine. Chad discusses how the ultra-running community has supported him and impacted his life. His passion for connecting people through stories is inspiring. We hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did.

IG - ultra.sully

hardprairie.com 

Mar 5, 2024

Please listen with an open mind and heart. When we are open to expanding our views and learning with compassion it is a beautiful thing and that is what sparks change.

Eric Quallen is a trans ultra runner, Wildlife Biologist who recently obtained his PhD, he is a dog lover, and master educator for leave no trace. He has completed many ultra marathons including Moab 240, Wyoming Range 100, and Zion 100.

Eric is one of the most open and honest people we have had on our podcast. He shares his journey as a trans runner and discusses his experiences through transitioning. Eric tells us what trail running brings to his life and what it is like to run 240 miles. We discuss challenges he has faced, mental health and so much more. Eric not just living, he is thriving.

 

Feb 27, 2024

We love a story of friendship born on the trails. Bailey and Katie were both selected as season 10 participants of Becoming Ultra and now they are the best of friends. On this podcast we discuss how running ultras impacts your life and how it helps you gain the confidence to take on other substantial life changes. Bailey and Katie talk about how they supported each other for their first 100 miler, even when the outcome is not what was planned. We had an interesting conversation about being a hunter and living a vegan lifestyle. These ladies have a wonderful bond and mutual respect for each other’s point of view. Their support of each other will leave you inspired.

Feb 13, 2024

Mark White describes himself as just a heavy Dad who runs ultras. He ran his first 50k when he was 45 years old and weighed 310 lbs. The following year he took on the 50-mile distance. Since then, he hasn’t stopped training and running trails all over the country.

The best part of doing this podcast is being able to tell peoples stories of inspiration. Mark is not letting anything stop him from going after big goals. He knows the value of doing hard things and is putting in the work daily. With the support of his family and ultra-running community, he is hitting trails all over the country. This is a great conversation about not letting anything hold you back. We are excited to follow Mark’s ultra journey as he continues to push himself. Failure is in not trying!

IG - @heavyultradad

Feb 6, 2024

Sid Garza-Hillman is an author, podcaster, public speaker, certified nutritionist and running coach, Oxygen Advantage breathing instructor, and founder of smallsteppers.com. He is also the Stanford Inn & Resort’s Wellness Programs Director and Race Director of the Mendocino Coast 50k trail ultramarathon. 

We had the best time chatting with Sid. He is so engaging and fun, we could have talked for hours. We discussed his new book, Ultra Running for Normal People; Life Lessons Learned On and Off the Trail (which was released today, February 6th!). This is a must-read handbook for living a happy life. We also talked about Sid’s coaching and Small Steps Programs; Podcast; the Mendocino Coast 50k trail race he puts on every year and so much more. This one is full of fun and inspiration!

Check out his website to learn more! www.Sidgarzahillman.com 

Jan 30, 2024

We sit down and chat with Scott & Cale about their epic 100 mile adventure from Moab to Fruita!

Jan 23, 2024

Helen Mino Faukner has been named the  #7 female ultra runner of the year by ultra running magazine. She recently had a podium finish at one of the most competitive ultra marathons in the world , CCC 100k. She is positive, always smiling and always wearing heart shaped glasses. 

We can’t say enough good things about Helen. At age 27 she has managed to figure out a few things that take most of us a lot longer. She is living her life aligned with her values and not letting her ego get in the way. We talk about her background, the coaching style that works best for her, how yoga has helped her trail running, and her upcoming races. We also hear the story behind those awesome heart shaped glasses. This one will leave you feeling inspired!

IG - @helenredcloud

Jan 16, 2024

Mary Davison is an 82-year-old long distance backpacker; she is a retired Pastor and Grandmother of 10. She began long distance backpacking at age 60 and has accomplished the Triple Crown, The Appalachian Trail (2,198 miles) , Pacific Crest Trail (2,653 miles) , and the Continental Divide (3,028 miles). She is also the author of two books with a third on the way. 

Mary has redefined what it means to be old. On this podcast we discuss Mary’s accomplishments as an older backpacker. We also discuss the fear that keeps us from doing things and how to overcome it. Mary is an inspiration and wants everyone to know they don’t have to stop hiking because of their age.

Her books include:

Old Lady on the Trail: Triple Crown at 76

Aren’t You Afraid?: American Discovery Trail From The Atlantic Ocean to Nebraska

Dec 12, 2023

Kris & Carly do a quick update before heading to the holiday break!  We will be back January 16th with new episodes!

Dec 5, 2023

Sierra started running ultras in 2015 and has excelled in the 100-mile distance. On this podcast we talk her recent win at the USATF 24-hour national championship, what that means to her and what she hopes to gain from that experience. We also discuss a recent 100-mile race, the Bear 100. This is one of the best stories of mental toughness and resiliency we have ever heard. Sierra is incredibly disciplined; she puts in high mileage and balances her time to train and race. You will be inspired to get those miles in after hearing this one.

 

IG- @sdegroff

Nov 28, 2023

Kris first met Steve in Texas a couple years ago while crewing at Bandera 100k. Steve has done some amazing things. He is one of the most supportive people she has ever met she has never known anyone who steps in as much as he does to help others achieve their big goals. While recently crewing and pacing a friend, Beth, for the Bear 100 in Utah, Steve shared his why. Kris was so moved by it she told him he needed to come on the podcast and share more.

We love a podcast guest that makes you feel inspired to do more giving. Steve is a 21-year retired Air Force veteran; he has been searching to find his purpose and live a life that is in line with his principals. Steve shares his journey after retiring that takes us through his Dad’s passing and becoming sober. He has immersed himself in the trail running community. Steve is making an impact through Band of Runners and bringing awareness to drug and alcohol addiction. Steve is a wonderful person who loves connecting people. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did.

 

Nov 21, 2023

Alexa has had some big changes since we last talked. She is still leading by example and empowering women to do big things. 

We had another great conversation with Alexa. She is still busy but has found a way to shift her priorities and conquer big goals. Alexa shares her journey to running Bigfoot 200 and gives a full race recap. She merged her passion for mountain running with the need to raise awareness for gun violence. Alexa continues her mission to raise funds and awareness while setting her sights on Cocodona 250. When we talk to Alexa, we feel the support and enthusiasm for anything we want to accomplish. She truly is our Wonder Woman!

IG -@alexahasman

https://runsignup.com/runtoendgunviolence?fbclid=IwAR1rYt0h-8x2KP3eNauDWUGgyx9XKUDr_AQ5b-y21R6_9VBQMlmCl2XKJcg_aem_AYDsX5GMFaH-CVsk-HOw4RhUOdDdydqBxrnZxUCIUXzjubHBxqRbvlWSLhaWGdkCx0o

IG - @uphill_athlete

https://momsdemandaction.org/about/ 

Nov 14, 2023

Tara has been diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, she has found healing through trail running with her husky, Suki and hopes to show others that they can move their bodies even if they are diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Tara is on a mission to show people a diagnosis does not mean you have to stop doing what you love. She has taken charge of her health and wants to encourage others to do the same. We discuss what it means to have a diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis and how to move through it. Tara is incredibly positive and driven to help people. This conversation left us feeling inspired.

 

Nov 7, 2023

We had Sabrina Stanley on the podcast two years ago. What stands out most is her confidence and drive. She has won some of the most difficult 100 milers including the Hurt 100 and Hardrock 100 twice. Ultrarunner magazine has named Sabrina one of the top ultra runner’s multiple times. 

Another great conversation with one of our favorites. On this episode we talk about what the last two years have been like for Sabrina. The heartbreak of preparing for a big event and not being able to compete due to Covid followed by a tough DNF. We discuss the physical and mental work it takes to overcome setbacks; Sabrina is very open and honest about mental health. We appreciate this conversation and hope it helps others. Sabrina is a strong woman with a positive message for all of us trying to do hard things.

IG - @sabrinaleannstanley

Oct 31, 2023

John Calabrese is embracing life! We had a great time chatting with him about racing, the trail running community, parenting, and caregiving. John is racing almost every weekend. He is a proud dance Dad and puts parenting at the top of his priority list. John also tells us about his special relationship with Donald, who is confined to a wheelchair but has taught everyone he meets so much about living. John’s energy and joy are  contagious. You will be inspired by this one.

IG- @breezytrailhead

Oct 24, 2023

Taylor Spike (Tspike) is an ultra-endurance athlete, Husband, Father, and recovering addict. He is one of the few people to complete a 200-mile ultramarathon in less than 60 hours. He also holds the master’s course record for the Tahoe 200 clockwise and counterclockwise. Taylor has experienced extreme discomfort on the trails and in life. Taylor doesn’t make excuses; he is sober and accountable to himself. He embraces his family and the moments he shares with them.

Kris met Taylor and his dad, Greg at the Wy’east Wonder Ultra in June. She knew immediately she wanted to talk more. It was a short meeting but made an impact. On this episode Taylor talks openly about addiction and loss. We discuss what shapes us, inspires us, and drives us as trail runners and how we persevere through pain. It was a privilege to have this conversation. We hope it resonates with people who have similar struggles.

IG- @tspike2

IG- @live_recovery_strong

 

Oct 17, 2023

Today we catch up with some old friends, and some new ones, to talk about the TransRockies Race! TRR is a 6 day stage race across the Rocky Mountains that covers 120 total miles and 20,000 feet of elevation gain.  Ina & Mike along with Jenn and Dave relive their experience during the week and talk about how as partners they successfully completed the event.  

Oct 10, 2023

We are all familiar with the Leadville 100, Hisa has a great story about how she made her way to the iconic race. In 11 months, she went from running 2 miles to 100. We discuss her athletic background as well as training for a mountain race at altitude in the heat of Baton Rouge. We absolutely loved this conversation with Hisa. Her story is one that will make you feel inspired and happy. Taking a chance and not being afraid to fail can lead to some great things. 

IG- @hisa.turner

Sep 12, 2023

Rachel Belmont is an adventure seeker; she has traveled the world conquering some of the most extreme foot races to raise money for running programs organized by Girls on the Run. Her career as an adolescent psychiatric nurse has inspired her to take action and to help young adults turn to a healthier outlet such as running.

Rachel discusses the path that led her to ultra running and some of the most extreme stage races. We also talk about her life changing experience at Badwater 135. Rachel discusses how she has found the perfect balance between her career and her desire for adventure.

IG- @_skyrnr_

Sep 5, 2023

We welcome back to the pod, our friend Andrea Casella Kooiman. Andrea is a person who asks herself why not me and has accomplished some amazing things. Over 150 marathon and ultra-marathons under her belt including Badwater 135 three times, and most recently the Barkley Marathons and Tahoe 200. Andrea has a passion to assist others in becoming their own superhero, she is one of the founders of WeRock, an after-school, intervention program for Middle and High School students focused on the endurance sport of running. We talked more about this on our last podcast that aired 11/29/22. Today we discuss Andrea’s most recent accomplishment, the Tahoe 200. 

This is another great conversation with Andrea. This woman is all about inspiring others and pushing herself. On this podcast we talk about the successful virtual book club she started during COVID. We have included more details about it below.

 Andrea takes us through her recent race, the Tahoe 200. 206.2 miles with 35,117 feet of climbing in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Andrea finished in 97 hours 6 minutes and 41 seconds. She breaks it down mile by mile and shares all the details. We love the enthusiasm Andrea has for big races. Be sure to check out her Instagram for pictures and an awesome video to recap the race. Andrea closes with sharing her next races. We look forward to hearing all about it!

 

Aug 29, 2023

Katie Hernke is a mom, nurse, and writer who creates content for trail lovers. She is on a mission to get all her hiking friends to try backpacking and help educate those of us who want to do more backpacking.

Katie is passionate about all things trails, especially backpacking. We loved this conversation with Katie, it was like chatting with a good friend. She talks about how her running journey has evolved over the years and what led her to backpacking. She is full of knowledge and enthusiasm. Katie shares some great tips regarding planning and gear. You will be inspired to grab your friends and plan a trip after hearing this one!

 

Aug 22, 2023

Brittany Peterson  is an amazing ultra-runner and even better human being. We first met her last year on the podcast. If you want to learn more about her running journey, check out that episode.  On this podcast we are going to talk about other big changes in her life. Brittany has been dealing with hip issues and recently had surgery on both hips. She has experienced some major life changes while on a journey to self-discovery. Brittany is handling everything with a wonderful attitude and hope for the future. Let’s get caught up!

We first met Brittany on the podcast over a year ago. One of the things we love most about her is her amazing attitude. She has been faced with some challenges lately as she recovers from surgery on both hips. Brittany is candid about the recent challenges and changes in her life. She is choosing to embrace change and move forward with positivity.

IG- @runhappyb

Aug 15, 2023

Benny Braden is a retired EMT and rescue diver, Electrician, long distance hiker, founder and CEO of responsible stewardship, photographer, YouTuber, and PTS survivor. Benny is living his best life thanks to long distance back packing and God (quote from the Highline documentary).

Benny Braden is all about making a positive impact. We had a great conversation about trauma, mental health, and long-distance backpacking. Benny shares his insights on the importance of nature and healing. He is very candid about his struggles with PTS. We also discuss his FKT in the Smoky Mountains and other amazing hikes. Benny is passionate about educating people on how to practice responsible stewardship on the trails. He also shares some stories about the Highline Documentary. This is an important conversation that we were honored to be a part of. 

Highline is available for download on Amazon Prime, ITunes and Google Play.

To learn more about responsible stewardship visit ResponsibleStewarship.org.

To learn more about the Reboot Recovery Program or donate visit rebootrecovery.com.

IG - @therealbennybraden

Aug 8, 2023

Jeffrey James Binney is living his best life. He is an adventure travel host with Trova Trips, trail runner, comedian, and public speaker. He is also the producer and director of the amazing documentary Once Is Enough. Jeffrey was our very first podcast guest two years ago, we could not think of a better person to celebrate 100 episodes with. So much has changed in the last two years so let’s get caught up!

To celebrate our 100th episode we brought back our very first guest and one of our most favorites, Jeffrey James Binney. You know you are going to have fun whenever he is around. This is an entertaining and inspiring conversation; we cover a lot of topics. Thank you for being a part of our 100th episode and supporting us along the way!

Check out Jeffrey's YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyn34XHws1HeMzDKa8JLyTg

Aug 1, 2023

Kris & Carly chronicaled the shenanigans behind planning an all-gals backpacking adventure with our friends Caitlin and Muriel.  This one is fun and goofy but goes to show that ANYONE can get out there and do new things!

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