The Sharpened Runner: Recent Episodes
Anthony Gilbert, Melissa Martinez
A podcast that is designed by ultra runners for Christian runners to unite in training their bodies, guarding their hearts and sharpening their minds.
When Shannon Mick started running it was doing a bunch of 5Ks for several years. A few years later she graduated to the marathon distance where over-crowded corrals, pushy runners and the whole road aspect just left a sour taste in her mouth. In fact, she hated a lot about it and was left unsatisfied.
It wasn't until a rough day when she was home alone where she turned on the tv to decompress and her life was altered. Staring at the screen in front of her was a Badwater 135 documentary and it triggered something deep inside.Shannon was hooked immediately by the intense and grueling race that played out in front of her.
What happened next was simply unimaginable. Shannon literally did a Dr. Jekyl and Mr. Hyde transformation and threw road races to the curb and embraced nature and the trails. She soon became obsessed with the 50 mile distance and has not looked back. In fact, she has even dragged her husband along for the run to fuel the competitiveness between each other and spend more time together.
Through this episode with Shannon Mick, a national certified counselor and licensed professional counselor from Pennsylvania, I learn a lot about her passion of trail running and what fuels her to keep going when she faces adversity head on. We also dive into the basics of survival that an ultra- runner needs when running these long distances: training, hydration, mental toughness and desire to keep going.
I hope you will enjoy this episode as much as I did. I hope you will follow her on social media or YouTube if you have not already. @instagram -be.short.run.ultra - YouTube - @shannonbeshortrunultra
See you down the trail,
The Scarecrow Runner
Brad Lord grew up in a small Georgia town where his home life was everything, but normal. His dad was gone a lot working on the railroad and his mom had a lot of extra-curricular activities to keep her occupied. Even from the eyes of a young boy, he knew something wasn't right, but kept quiet to avoid harm for his mom and himself. The toxic environment he was living in pushed him to seek something else to occupy his time. Thankfully, Brad chose to embrace the path of football and weightlifting to help escape from the heaviness of his not-so-great home life. Listen along as Brad shares his story of how he overcame adversity and how he is using other outlets and sharing his story to heal from the past and embrace the best life ahead.
This week's episode I had the privilege of having my friend, Aaron Dana on the show. Aaron is a returning guest and was excited to have him back on. A lot has changed and happened since we chatted in Episode 29 back in August 2020. At the time of the last episode, we chatted he had just conquered his first 100-mile ultra-marathon, the Mighty Mosquito and was 4th place overall.
This was a fun visit where we talked about Bills and Chiefs football, to how to keep a good balance in our lives with training and sharing some insight in ultra-running and how to run your race and not worry about others.
Since that time, Aaron has logged some serious miles and has been chewing up some major elevation and has since returned to the Mighty Mosquito and took home 1st place overall this past summer and has endured some additional challenging races featuring the Backyard style, Mid-state mile and the Tennessee Mile - 40 hour. Talk about some serious elevation with over 36K feet of gain and over 100 miles completed with another first-place win.
Aaron has learned how to adapt to his surroundings and his training and has matured a lot in the last 4 years of running. It was fun to hear him share some lessons learned and opportunities for success and improvement in the future. Aaron shares how he does hard things, how to balance things and be more intentional in what he is doing and how to keep a good head on his shoulders and enjoy life along the way.
In this week's podcast I share something that has been on my mind and in my heart for several weeks, being intentional. It is the word I chose for myself after prayer and meditating on what to focus on for this upcoming year. Everything that I do this year will be intentional and on purpose.
I share how being intentional in all things will lead to success in every area of your life wherever you choose to apply it. I cover 5 areas of being intentional: having a deliberate plan for your day; be clear on the results you want; be purposeful with your time; be considerate with your focus and focusing on your goals. If you apply these 5 simple ways of adding intentionality to your schedule and your plans you will have more success than you realize. When you are intentional in things you are actively being deliberate, you are planning things out and you have goals that can be achieved and have measurable results.
I wish you the best in 2023 and hope to hear from you all and how you plan on being intentional. Until next time - Anthony
I sit down with a former classmate and teammate, Bill Griffith who has overcome so much in the last 19 months. We catch up on years past since high school and his background as a coach in college football. Our discussion then takes a turn into a more sobering topic of how he has battled Fentanyl and his steps of breaking free from its grasp.
This is definitely not easy topic to discuss but allows for healing to take place and helps educate others on the dangers associated. Our hope with this discussion is to help shed some light on how addiction is affecting so many in our country. Having these tough conversations is a necessary step in the right direction that will hopefully open the eyes of many.
So many times, over the years I have made the comment of, "I'll start on Monday" or "I will get started on that as soon as possible" only to never follow through with what I have said. I had good intentions, but I didn't ever follow through with them. I planned on starting a new program on Monday but then things came up and I let too much time slip and before you know it, the middle of the week is upon you and who wants to start a training program mid-week?
Why not start a program in the middle of the week? Why do we need to start on a Monday? Well for me the excuse has always been the beginning of the week makes it a nice time to start something, but if you don't follow through it is pointless. We need to be intentional in our motivation and how we strive for fitness. In this episode I share several of the things I have struggled with over the last few years and provide some tips on how we can be intentional in our motivation. To intentionally motivate ourselves to get past the road of good intentions and on to the path of journey and success.
Have a great week and thanks for listening!
2022 has been a very interesting year and just full of surprises, twists and turns that I didn't expect or plan on. It consisted of my children turning 8, 13, 15 and 21. 21? How is that even possible? It makes me feel old and blessed at the same time. I battled COVID in late October and had to take time to rest and recover. It is hard for someone like me to intentionally rest and not be active. I have and always will be one that is active. This year has been one of adjustments and adapting and I will embrace it. I embrace these moments and am learning to stop and be still. The Bible says in Psalm 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God...." the Lord is prompting me to take this into 2023 and be intentional and be still. To embrace the moment and capture what is in front of me. To be intentional and observe what is going on and not miss anything.
I want to encourage you as you listen to this podcast that you will stop and be still and listen. Be intentional and allow God to speak to your spirit and your heart and reveal things to you that you may be overlooking or have missed in the past. May 2023 be one that will be full of learning and blessing.
One of the most important things as Christians that we need to remember is to put God first. Just as Lauren Daigle sings in her song, "First", we need to bring our needs, our desires, our wants and our problems to God first before anyone else or before we do anything else. When we bring everything to Him first, then we are truly honoring Him as believers and avoiding the trap that is so easy to get into and that is being dependent on the world. The world does not provide the comfort and peace that comes with Christ when we cast our cares on Him and let Him have access to us, first. It's a sign of true humility and obedience when we follow what is stated in Matthew 6:33, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
Every year people by the scores set resolutions for the next year in hopes of losing weight, getting out of debt, spending more time with their kids, making better choices, etc and unfortunately many of those resolutions and desires fail and the individuals are frustrated and give up entirely. Fortunately many do not give up and many do achieve the resolutions they set out to achieve for the next year. In most cases those who are successful have a secret to their success and it's because they are persistent, they set a goal, they write it down, they share it with others for accountability and they don't quit no matter how hard the challenge is.
This is what we need to do as believers each day of our lives and especially coming into a new year with new challenges and opportunities that lie ahead of us waiting to be uncovered. We need to not only set New Year resolutions to be successful and healthy in our physical lives, but we also need to set resolutions and goals in our spiritual walk. That is the most important area of our lives that needs growth and development. It is crucial to have a Godly influence and focal point in our spiritual lives and allow it to spill over into our daily walk and lives.
In Habbakuk 2:2-3 (Amplified Version) it states, "Then the Lord answered me and said, “Write the vision And engrave it plainly on [clay] tablets so that the one who reads it will run. “For the vision is yet for the appointed [future] time. It hurries toward the goal [of fulfillment]; it will not fail. Even though it delays, wait [patiently] for it, Because it will certainly come; it will not delay."
We need to write down our visions and goals and make it big and bold so that we can see it and understand it when we are 'running'. We don't need to overcomplicate it or make it something we have to think a lot about. But we need to write them down and keep it close at hand and review it daily and share it with others and have them buy into your vision as well for accountability. If we put God at the forefront of our vision for the next year and the days we walk, we will most surely have success and not be frustrated the way one would be if they did not have vision with a Godly influence.
We pray that 2022 is one full of vision, direction and favor for you as you step into a new season. We challenge you to state your vision and let God work in you and through you. Happy New Year!
It's crazy to think that Christmas is almost here. Literally, the most wonderful time of the year because of the one, true gift that we've been blessed with oh so many years ago. That blessed holy night, when Mary, the mother of Jesus, gave birth to the savior of the world. Isaiah 9:6 captures it best, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
We pray that the gift of God through His son Jesus would capture your attention and heart this Christmas season. May you and your family have a Merry Christmas and a prosperous and happy New Year.
We absolutely love this time of year....as it is often stated, "It's the most wonderful time of the year" and we cannot disagree. In fact, Christmas, is the most wonderful time of the year because Jesus is the reason for the season and it's a joy to celebrate His birth and life. Join us this week as Melissa and Anthony touch on the Christmas story found in Luke chapter 2 and then share two of their favorite Christmas songs along with the history and background. We hope you will be blessed by this conversation and receive something out of it.
Have you ever had questions or frustrations that you wanted to get off your chest and unload on God but where afraid it wasn't something we should do as Christians? It is perfectly fine to question God and many throughout the Bible, including David, Jonah and Job questioned God and were right in doing so. It comes down to the way you question and the intent behind it. Melissa and Anthony dig into why Christians should in fact question God and then how we should seek Him and grow closer to Him through the process.
The word of God states in Proverbs 3:5 "trust in the Lord with all of your heart and lean not on your own understanding." He wants us to lean not on our own understanding, but rather seek His counsel and wisdom because our understanding is limited, but God's wisdom is infinite.
Psalm 37:23 states, "The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way." Isn't that such an encouragement? God has laid out a path for us to walk even when we are given free will to do things that we choose. God grants us that freedom, but delights in us when we choose His will over ours.
In this week's episode Melissa and Anthony talk about divine appointments and how God will put certain people in our paths or allows for encounters to happen where He can use us and be glorified. We just have to be ready, willing and able. God doesn't call the equipped, He equips the called. And how amazing it is when God allows an opportunity to arise and we have an opportunity to be used by Him to further the Kingdom.
We firmly believe that no encounter is by accident and that if we allow the Holy Spirit to guide us, He will use us in a mighty way. Join us in this conversation about divine appointments and walking in the destiny God has laid out before you. We pray that you will be encouraged and blessed.
As we approach Thanksgiving we enter a season of thanks and reflection. Many of us will immediately say and respond that we are thankful for our health, for our jobs, for our families and anything else that comes to mind. These are all wonderful things to think about and be thankful for. But Melissa and I would like to challenge you to prayerfully reflect this season and really ponder what we are thankful for and to think about those who are without so much during this time of year.
We talk about so many things we are thankful for during our podcast this week, but then we take it a little deeper and reflect on how we can take the things we are thankful for and share it with those who are less fortunate. To be true representatives and ambassadors of Christ. To share what we are thankful for with others and share the love of Christ during this season.
In 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 it says, "Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work."
We hope you will be blessed and encouraged in this week's episode.
As it says in the word of God in Joshua 1:6-9, "Be strong and courageous...". We must be willing to obey God without hesitancy to step up to the waters' edge and attempt impossible things know that if God doesn't come through there is no 'Plan B'. Melissa and I dig deep into how God stacks the odds against his followers and allows the opportunity to be glorified and seen as the main source. God makes the impossible, possible and is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. We do not need to worry about the situation in front of us, but to trust God and trust in the process. We must be willing to take that leap and know that He is there to catch us. God will never fail us. Later on in Joshua 21:45 it firmly establishes this truth: God keeps his Word. Not one of God's good promises has ever failed, not before the time of Joshua not after, and not now. Listen in and be encouraged to know that even when the odds are stacked completely against us, that God will lead us to the waters' edge and beyond. Just as Shadrack, Meshack and Abednego walked through the fiery furnace with their unwavering faith and refused to comply to the king's demands, we can overcome the fires that rage in front of us each day.
Much like David was faced with setback after setback in the Old Testament, we are reminded that when there is a set back that is an opportunity for God to make it a stepping stone for success. We all will face setbacks and challenges during our lives, but it's up to us to decide what we are going to do with it. Will we forget everything and run? or face everything and rise? With God, all things are possible. Allow Him to see you through the setback and lead you to the calling He has for you.
This is our official podcast launch with the new format: The Sharpened Runner. The whole focus of this podcast is to share the love of Christ and to encourage and enlighten other runners who are like-minded. We have been called to unite runners to train their body, guard their heart and sharpen their mind and spirit. We are under constant bombardment in this crazy world and we need a place where we can sharpen one another like iron and rise up to the challenges we face.
We know that hard work and perseverance is the path to success, but it is not always a clear or easy one to follow. Many times we are faced with tough and hard situations that we must traverse through to reach the destination. This is just part of life, but God has given us the tools to guide and motivate us during the toughest times. So whether you are not sure what your next step will be (Proverbs 16:3), if the journey is worth the reward (2 Timothy 4:7) or if you just need a reminder that God is always watching and has your back (1 Corinthians 10:31) take some time to listen and be encouraged and blessed. We pray you will receive something along the way and would love to hear from you.
I have my friend Melissa Martinez on to share some insight she received after running the Pumpkin Holler Hunnerd last week. She really feels that we need to focus on the reasons we run and ultimately finishing the race we have begun. This associates with the physical races we sign up for and run, but is taken even deeper when it is compared to our spiritual race we are called to run and finishing what God has started in us. I encourage you to listen to our discussion and be blessed by the raw transparency of the discussion. While we really didn't have a set agenda for the discussion, it was meant to just flow and discuss what came up in the course of our chat.
Breaking News is announced at the end of the podcast that you will want to tune in for.
In this week's podcast I go to the vault and uncover something that has been locked away for a decade. I was part of a leadership conference in September 2011 in Shawnee, Oklahoma at my church, Living Word. It's amazing how even 10 years later the words I spoke resonate and speak to me today as I hope they will resonate and speak to you as well. After coming across this message I realized that I have been away from things that mean so much to me and that I haven't been embracing and walking in my calling. May we all recognize the areas where we struggle and rise up to the challenge. Be encouraged and blessed.
In this third installment of the men of faith series I sit down with my best friend and brother, Brandon Crites. Brandon and I met on social media almost 2 1/2 years ago and haven't looked back. We have had a great friendship and it just gets better every day. I enjoyed this episode with Brandon because even though we talk about some running, we also dig into Brandon's background and his faith and how important and critical it is for success in our daily lives. Brandon also joined me during season 1 on the podcast for episode 13, Faith, Family and Ultra Running,
In episode 2 of my "Men of Faith" series, I chat with my friend from Georgia, Jack Johnson. Jack and I met on Instagram in 2019 and we aired a podcast episode on the 4th of July in 2020 that can be heard here: Season 1: Deep South series: https://runningfordistance.podbean.com/e/jack-johnson-tiger-blood/
In today's episode Jack and I talk about a lot of different things ranging from overcoming adversity as a business owner, the importance of faith, being a godly example, making hard decisions but walking by faith and trusting the process and sharing love; the greatest commandment. I really think you will enjoy this discussion as Jack and I bring back some of our former discussion on ultra running and keeping a balance in our lives with Jesus at the front of it all.
I would love it if you would share your thoughts and drop me a comment below and click the like button. If you haven't subscribed, I would really appreciate you following along in this adventure going forward.
In this 7 part series I will be visiting with several different men whom I have a lot of respect for and many who have been on the podcast previously and are successful runners and athletes. This series will touch on faith and the importance it has in their daily lives but also as athletes, fathers and husbands. We will touch many different areas dependent upon the flow of the conversation. In week 1 I visit with Mike Outler from Georgia. Mike is a former Army Airborne Ranger and pastor. He has been involved in sports his entire life and he shares his transformation from being a rough and tough Army Ranger to a pastor dealing with church growth and personal adversity to how faith has been important to him through his entire life. This episode will be a little different than the others in the series since i had not previously discussed Mike's background and wanted to capture that for the listeners. Keep an open mind and heart and I hope you will be encouraged by something in this episode.
runningfordistance #gotheultramile #TimWillis In this week's episode I get to chat with ultra runner Tim Willis who resides in Miami, Florida. Tim is a Physical Therapy Assistant, running coach, ultra runner and recently published author of The Ultra Mile: The Joy, Freedom and Opportunities of Running that releases on May 10th on Amazon. We talk about his personal experiences pre-running with basketball and baseball and then eventually leading into running after high school where he embraced the 5K and wanted more and eventually wrestled with the marathon for several years before tackling 100 mile ultra marathons. In our discussion, which also is outlined in his book, we discuss his experiences in the Keys 100 where the wheels fell off at mile 25 and he endured 75 miles of pure hell. Our discussion journeys through mental toughness and grit and how to push the mind and body to its true potential. It was a fun conversation with Tim, who is truly passionate about what he does and has definitely found his why and it's evident in what he does and how he goes about getting things done. Sit back and enjoy this discussion with Tim Wills and also go out and snag his book on Amazon and help support an amazing individual.
In this week's episode I sit down with a local runner from the Tulsa, Oklahoma area, Deanna Whitham. She is a wife, stay-at-home-mother of a 2 1/2 year old and also an up and coming runner. She began as a soccer player through school and then developed into a half marathon runner and most recently completed her first marathon during COVID-19 last year in a virtual format and hopes to complete an in-person one this fall at the Route 66 in Tulsa. Deanna is an inspiration to so many as she relies on her faith in God and compares it to her walk in life and how she overcomes adversity. Deanna continues to grow in so many areas and will definitely be an encouragement for those who listen.
Melissa Martinez is my guest this week on the Running For Distance podcast. She comes from north central Missouri and has an amazing testimony behind her ability to run, the desire to become a race director, running 100 milers and sharing the gospel with others along the way. Melissa is bold and not ashamed. She compares ultra running and the perseverance behind it with our lives and how the gospel parallels with them both. Anyone who desires to be inspired needs to listen in to this weeks episode. Melissa truly shares the heart of Christ in this episode and it was a joy to be apart of something bigger. You can check out the video version on the YouTube link below. https://youtu.be/VKppZ6IaO-o Melissa's running ministry https://www.facebook.com/groups/FROGFITNESSGROUP
runningfordistance #run_free_and_strong #podcast In this week's episode I had the privilege to chat with fellow YouTuber, Reto, from Run Free and Strong. We've followed each other for a while and have had good dialogue back and forth in supporting one another and our own running journey. I enjoyed my discussion with Reto as we dive into his background as an ultra runner, but also his past running faster, shorter distances. Reto has what he calls a giant playground to go out and explore the Appalachian Trail on a regular basis. Many of his running adventures are captured on this beautiful trail. Reto shares how running is therapy for him to escape the daily grind, to help cope with so many things that cause a drain; including family and health issues.
We discuss different methods that Reto uses to train and what he does besides running. He takes extra time to strength train and develop his body to prevent injuries. Reto has previously attempted a 100 miler in person and fell short in his initial quest, but followed up two months later to tackle it virtually. He is currently training for another 100 mile race, the 7 trails challenge in April. Reto is always looking for new adventures and exploring locations that are not known for ultra and trail running and would love to pursue an opportunity in Vietnam which could happen in 2022.
Finally we talk a little wine, some food and coffee that both of us share a passion for. I hope that you will find this podcast/interview fun and engaging as we discuss running, life and everything in between.
In this week's episode I sit down with the current head coach and teacher from Sapulpa (OK) High School. We dig into a lot of coach Kip's philosophies of coaching and how he handles adversity and uses it to help train and coach the young men in the game of soccer, but also prepare them for the game of life. Coach believes in more than just winning and taking those experiences and capitalizing on them and growing from them.
We also open the closet of coach Kip's past where he shares struggles and adversity and adds that even though he had championships and success everywhere he was, he was still missing something and was not happy until he went all in and changed direction and refocused his life and the priorities associated. This episode is one that will inspire you, challenge you and help you see that even when we are faced with hard obstacles and what seems like impossible situations that the sun will come up tomorrow.
I sit down and chat with Stu Humber from Lutterworth, England. Stu will begin his quest to tackle the 6633 ultra on March 1st. COVID-19 shut the race down in 2020 and forced them to go virtual this year. Stu will tackle the event pulling his sled for 380 miles around his hometown. He shares the challenges and obstacles he has faced leading up to this event and also shares his quest to log 10,000 miles from the beginning of the 6633 this year till the completion of the 2022 race in the Arctic next year. Stu will be writing his second book on the journey he will embark on and the people he will meet along the way. This was a really enjoyable chat and hope you will be inspired by Stu's story.
You can follow along on his journey of the 6633 ultra and beyond on his Strava, Instagram and YouTube channel featuring his documentary.
Strava
Instagram - 6633 to the 6633
6633 Ultra Documentary
In this week's episode I sit down with Laura Kay Eriks from Illinois. This conversation was literally fresh off the completion of the Rocky Raccoon 100 on her birthday weekend and what a sweet gift it was to finish yet another 100 miler. Ultra marathons are nothing new for Laura. She has been running them for the last decade after her original attempt at running one with little training.
She has run countless 50K and 50 milers and has completed well over 21 hundred mile ultras that include some of the following well known races: Heartland, Rocky Raccoon, Land Between The Lakes, Arkansas Traveler, Spirit of the Osage, Black Hills, Tunnel Hill, Hawk Hundred, Snow Drop, No Business, Hennepin Hundred and several others.
Laura is not only an ultra runner, but is married to Michael who is an ultra runner and her son is an ultra runner at the age of 15. It is a family affair and they love it that way and it keeps the competition and training going year round in their home. Laura and Michael are also the race directors for their home grown race, the Arrowhead Endurance Run held in October every year in Johnston City, Illinois. When Laura isn't running or helping her family out in their training/races, she spends her time as a Nuclear Medicine Technician and an ambassador for Orange Mud and apart of the Ornery Mule Racing Team.
You can also check out the video version of this podcast here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AL-EoH4PvrE
In Episode 3 of season 3 I sit down and visit with none other than Anthony Bailey. He is a fellow YouTuber who I have become acquainted with and have enjoyed a lot of discussion back and forth on our channels. Anthony has a remarkable story to share in overcoming Domestic Child Abuse, alcohol and drug abuse and also battling his own struggles over the years. It was a lot of fun chatting with Anthony and learning more about his passions of running, sharing his story and also his non-profit organization he has started with his wife, Jen.
Run For Grace is a non-profit who's mission is to provide aide to those in need, the less fortunate, and to assist in the prevention of homelessness while promoting an active lifestyle with an emphasis on running. Not to mention he plans on completing the Goggins 4x4x48 and a 50K in hopes to raise money for different organizations.
Check out Anthony's channel "Running For My Best Life" https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLRt... Anthony and Jen Bailey's non-profit - Run For Grace YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-lH... http://www.runforgrace.org/
In this week's episode I recap a lot of what took place in 2020 for me and how things transpired and ultimately changed from Scarecrow Runner to Running for Distance. I share the journey of the first year of this podcast and also my adventure into YouTubing and where it has lead me and then also jump into what is currently happening with me in my training and upcoming races. I hope these episodes coming down the trail soon will inspire and motivate you to be your best and do hard things. Remember regardless of where you are at in your training or in life you are always running for and going the distance. Have a blessed week!
Hello 2021 and welcome to the new format and new look. As many of you may or may not know, Running For Distance is the new look, name and brand for this podcast going forward. I felt like it is a good touch for what I want to cover in these weekly podcasts. Whether we are running 1 mile, 50 miles or 100 miles, we are always running for some kind of distance and that is also true in life.
In this first episode of 2021, I sit down with my former roommate and collegiate teammate, Wade Hoss. Wade and I ran college cross country together at Allen County Community College and have stayed in touch ever since. We discuss Wade's early passion of running and how life and the fire that once drove his competitiveness died out and he lost the desire to run.
We discuss the journey he has made over the years and the spark that has reignited his desire to begin running again. Not only do we cover running, but we also touch on some Chiefs football, life and philosophy, Wade's hobby of cooking and hunting and a little of everything in between.
I think you will find this episode fun and inspiring.
In the final episode for 2020, I sit down with Lauren Beihoffer of Tennessee. I became friends with Lauren on social media through Instagram, Lauren_Runswild and later on Facebook and have followed her running adventures as well as her own podcast she hosts "Run Wild with Lauren and Bud".
In this episode we chat about Lauren's beginning roots of being a non-runner and the natural progression of her embracing her first 50K and eventually leading into running 100 mile ultra-marathons.
When Lauren, who has a degree in bio-chemistry, isn't teaching, she is a full-time wife, mom of special needs children and ultra-runner extraordinaire. Her true specialty is in trail running and mountain hiking. That is definitely her go-to now as she begins to embrace lots of 'vert' for her next test looming in August 2021, the Bigfoot 200.
I had a great time just talking running and life with her and loved the banter back and forth about keeping a balance and finding our true passion in running. We can't focus on what others are doing, but rather focus on who we are and the moment we are in. I hope you will be inspired by this down-to-earth and awesome running conversation.
May you have a blessed and prosperous 2021 as the new year approaches.
mentalmindset #positivity #livestream
In today's episode of the Scarecrow Runner podcast, I visit with friend, coach and certified running and mindset coach, Cliff Pittman. We dive deep into how to overcome with mental mindset. Cliff was a previous guest in Season 1 Episode 5 and am excited to have him back today.
Included in this episode:
- Process Oriented vs Outcome Oriented
- What we can/cannot control
- Embracing the process
- Identifying negativity in athletes
- Tackling the mindset and helping identify blind spots
- Building confidence - belief in ourselves
- Identifying Negative Thoughts
- Identifying Emotions
- Finding Your Why
- Writing down your goals and taking action
- Examples of overcoming adversity
- Resources for mental mindset
I had the opportunity to sit down and visit with Kara and Jen a few weeks ago on the back-end after my recent 50 miler to chat with them about their own 50 mile adventure. What started as a challenge ended up being a massive accomplishment for the two of them. Their journey lead them on a discovery to find their true heroes and inspires an entire community to help them get across the finish line. Their friend even agreed to film the entire training process from start to finish in a documentary called Road To 50 miles. It was an OFFICIAL SELECTION at the LA Femme International Film Festival this year. Anyone wanting to go out and accomplish something they have never done before should listen to this episode and allow it to inspire you to conquer goals and dreams. Road To 50 miles- official documentary on VIMEO
This week I sit down and had a live conversation on YouTube with my friend and fellow runner Chris Furlong all the way from Melbourne Australia. Chris currently is very active on his YouTube channel, CLFurlong where he documents his running journey's and training and interacts with people all over the world.
In this episode we cover a lot of information in a short amount of time.
- His background
- Running to lose weight
- Mental clarity
- Training
- Enjoyment
- Overcoming the biggest obstacles
- How it inspires
- Dealing with injuries while training
I encourage you to take a listen and be encouraged.
This week I feature Nick Fiedler (Feed-ler) currently living out west in Arizona, but is originally from Alabama. Nick started off as someone who knew nothing about running but started with just a normal pair of shoes and ran a mile as hard as he could and would repeat this on a regular basis through his first year of running.
In our discussion you will find that Nick is a creature of habit and steps up to the next challenge and repeats. Eventually his running led him to running a half marathon and then a marathon every week and finally a full Iron Man with his sister and didn't even have a bicycle when he started his training.
Nick is now currently training to get a BQ in his next marathon. The challenge is finding the right opportunity in the midst of a pandemic. I think you will be inspired by Nick's running testimony as he has gone from not being an athlete to being a very inspiring runner.
He can be found on Instagram at NickGoesWest
I hope you enjoy this discussion of true running progression but also achieving any goal you put in front of you and not letting things detour you.
This week I got to literally sit down with my friend Brian Hoover in person and then virtually after a recording snafu on my laptop. None-the-less we powered through it like so many of us have during 2020 and were able to capture a great episode.
This is the second podcast I have recorded with Brian. You will recall back in Season 1 - Episode 7 I had Brian on with me as discussed his adventures hiking the Pacific Crest Trail and we spoke literally the night before his next adventure along the PCT until the morning of when COVID-19 destroyed the plans.
Brian is never one to shy away from challenges and always has a Plan B. When the second act of PCT was shut down, Brian quickly put the gears in motion for his next big adventure that he had always wanted to do, kayak down the mighty Mississippi River.
Brian shares many of the adventures he and his friends face during their trip, the kind of food they would eat, the imminent danger they faced and the big fish stories that Brian has up his sleeves. You will have to listen in on this fun chat with Brian as we take a trip down the mighty Mississipp'
In this week's episode of The Scarecrow Runner podcast I visit with Brodie Sharpe. Brodie lives in Melbourne, Australia where he is a physiotherapist, a published author with several articles and also the host of the Run Smarter Podcast. Brodie has a passion to help educate others in injury prevention, clear up misconceptions around running and ultimately help us to run smarter. In this episode we discuss several common injuries that athletes and runners experience and that he treats regularly and we dive into some misconceptions behind running and training.
The main areas of our discussion into injury prevention and debunking the misconceptions were:
- Foam Rolling and is it really helpful and the IT band
- Are there benefits to stretching?
- Recognizing Adaptation - Doing too much too soon
- Plantar Fasciitis - what causes it and how to overcome it
- Causes of pain in the knee and knee cap area
You can find Brodie in the following places:
Website: Run Smarter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runsmarterseries/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brodie.sharpe
His podcast: Run Smarter also can be found streaming on any podcast app
I had the distinct honor to sit down and visit with ultra runner and founder of MS Run the US, Ashley Schneider. Ashley founded MS Run the US in 2009, a 501(c)3 charitable organization to raise awareness and raise funds to further multiple sclerosis (MS) research and help those living with disability due to their MS symptoms. Ashley was inspired by her mother, Jill Kumlien, who lived with MS for 36 years before passing in 2017 due to complications from the disease.
Ashley talks about her journey running 3,288 miles across the United States with only a motor home and one crew member, her Australian boyfriend. She ran nearly a marathon a day, six days a week, for six months, while fundraising for multiple sclerosis. She was the 16th female ever to run across the United States. She ran through 11 pair of shoes, burned over 270,000 calories and sustained only two blisters during the entire journey.
Aside from talking about her journey across the United States and raising awareness for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), we also chat about her background as a runner, her love for distance running, local food, international travel, her previous dream job of teaching rock climbing and surfing for a cruise ship and her life as a wife and mom in Wisconsin.
This was a fun conversation even on the cusp of such a deep and challenging topic. I hope you will be able to sit back and be inspired much like Ashley was when she allowed a dream become a reality.
This week was a special treat as I got to chat with The Ultra Running Guys, Jeff Winchester and Jeremy Reynolds from North Carolina. These two awesome guys have been building a great ultra running presence up in their town of Leeland, North Carolina.
Both guys started out as so many of us have as non runners and then eased their way into running in the OCR realm of Spartan racing and have sense embraced ultra running and the passion of long distance running. I enjoyed getting the opportunity to hear how both of them started running, how they came to know each other and bond as The Ultra Running Guys and since the recording of this episode they have launched their own podcast.
We also get to dive into their most recent event that both of them endured, The Halloween Hobble where Jeff took on the 100 mile event and Jeremy tackled the 24 hour event. Lo and behold a hurricane was brewing off the coast and drenched them with rain and eventually created crazy carnage on the race course. You'll have to listen in as both guys share their experiences.
In this week's episode of The Scarecrow Runner podcast I had the privilege to sit down and chat with Brian Rosser who also manages Rosser Runs here on YouTube. It was a joy to just banter back and forth about ultra running and the sense of adventure. Check out his YouTube at Rosser Runs. Brian shares a lot about his background as we dig into his past where he enlisted in the service as a combat life saver after the events of 9/11, his battle with alcoholism and how he chose to dig himself out of very dark places and embraced running which then led to ultra running. That is something that saved his life and challenges him daily. Brian has learned to find the beauty and adventure in running and no longer is a slave to the watch and logging specific time and distance, but rather focuses on the beauty in the moment. As he mentions, mileage is just a number and he doesn't get wrapped up in those details any longer.
This week I sit down with Karen Sparks. Karen comes from the great state of Texas and brings with her a story of triumph over tragedy, but as Karen would describe as the 11 year burn. Karen was married for 11 years, had the fairy tale wedding and so many hopes and dreams until it all was taken from her in what she describes as the 11 year burn. Karen shares the heart wrenching story of losing her precious son Grant and daughter Reagan in a tragic story that will move you to tears, but listen to the heart of one whom God has begun to restore as Karen has found hope through Him and through the outlet of ultra running. She truly is turning tragedy into triumph and is an overcomer in so many ways.
In this week's episode I have the opportunity to visit with someone who I have a lot of respect for and have grown to become friends with over the past few years.
JP Brose is the kind of man you want your kids to be around. He is a mentor and a leader. He has coached kids of all ages and taught them the value of sportsmanship, the skills needed for success in their sport, but most of all he has taught them about themselves and how to be someone in life.
JP has always been active in some form of sports and that continues today. He had the making of a future triathlete as a young boy from swimming, biking and running he just hadn't seen the big picture yet. JP has evolved from being a great athlete to coaching and developing great athletes to developing and mentoring souls as a pastor.
This podcast is one that will touch every avenue of athletics, faith and the challenges a debilitating disease like M.S. has on a family, but ultimately how a family choses faith over fear and choses to live life to the fullest.
Today I talk with Lexi Haefer currently living in Las Vegas, Nevada but originally from the small town of Flippin, Arkansas, known as the home of Ranger boats. Isn't that flippin' awesome?
She is a High School chemistry teacher who also teaches honor's students and is also a part time retail associate. She is a 50 state half marathon club member and has run 44 half marathons (26 states and 2 continents). She completed the midnight sun run in Rakovic, Iceland and has even conquered a full marathon. She is hoping to get as many miles in this year and run some more races without quarantine keeping her from reaching these goals.
Started running in high school, played volleyball and considered herself one of those 'band nerds'.
She saw an advertisement for the Zion Half Marathon after she moved out to Vegas and thought it sounded cool and started her training and the rest they say is history. She went out and completed that race and hit her goal and was hooked from that point on. And to say she was hooked may be an understatement because she actually skipped her college graduation to run in a race.
I think you will find this podcast is definitely as good as Au. And that's gold for those who don't know what the symbol is on the periodic chart.
This week I had the distinct privilege to chat with Tanner Kern.
Tanner is a former D1 offensive lineman at Lafayette College in Pennsylvania. Football had been in his blood his entire life; including his dad who played at the University of Connecticut. So when Tanner suffered an injury and was told he couldn't play football anymore it took him to a very dark place. He gained a lot of weight and peaked out at 340 pounds and 43% body fat.
He began to eat better and focused on getting health. He had a goal to lose 100 pounds and ultimately lost 140 pounds. Tanner was far from being able to run initially but kept working at it. He has gone from running his first 5K in 2019 to now training for ultra marathons.
Running helped rescue him from the dark place and changed his life. In July 2020 Tanner and his cousin teamed up with the sponsorship of Foodshare and ran from the US/Canada border to Hartford, Connecticut. A total of 260 miles in a 7 day span (60 hours of being on their feet) to raise awareness and fight hunger. They raised a grand total of $13K for this amazing non-profit and gained so much more in their experience.
As Tanner shares in this podcast, it's a process. You have to start somewhere and put in the work. Hard work will result in a great payoff. Tanner is an amazing example of this and his hard work continues to pay off every day.
Check out Tanner on his podcast at tannerkernpodcast and also his blog "It's a process". You can find more great information at tannerkern.com
This week's episode features RRCA running coach and former DJ at Z104.5 the Edge here in Tulsa, Cindy Knull. This episode was a real treat for me as we dive into Cindy's passion for running at a young age and then take a stroll down memory lane of year's gone by when talking about Cindy's past as a radio DJ for a rock station here in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I spent so many hours as a youth pretending to be a DJ and know many of you probably did the same thing.
Cindy has run more than 20 half marathons and has completed 7 marathons and 2 50K races, which makes her an official ultra runner and we even had some good discussion on what it would take for Cindy to take the next steps to complete a 50 miler. Cindy has taken her running passion to the next level as she recently completed her RRCA certification and desires to help other runners in their personal running journey. This is a very special thing to obtain and I know that Cindy is very excited for this next season in her life.
This episode is sure to motivate and inspire you as you take on your next challenge that may seem to big. Cindy imparts a lot of wisdom for runners and shares that it is important to just enjoy the journey and run the mile you are in and not worry about what is coming up next. It is so important to keep focus on the here and now instead of worrying about the past or even the future ahead. Cindy shares a valuable lesson in where anyone can accomplish anything if they put their minds to it. Of course it doesn't hurt when a friend challenges you to run a distance you have zero desire to complete and it turns out to be the catalyst to change your life forever.
Also be sure to check out my recent nomination by Feedspot as one of the top 10 ultra running podcasts. Extremely honored for this opportunity. Here is the link that you can go and listen to all of these amazing ultra running podcasts at https://blog.feedspot.com/ultra_running_podcasts/
In this week's episode I sit down with an amazing individual whom I have known for many years. Jessica Vaughn has held her ACSM Personal Training Certification since 2016. She has been a personal trainer as well as corporate wellness director, and group fitness instructor since 2015, and has been prepping herself and clients for bodybuilding shows, pageants, and other competitions since 2016.
Jessica shares in her background of wanting to be a football player and vet and becoming an athletic trainer that evolved into strength and conditioning and then into corporate wellness and body building.
Jessica is passionate about fitness and develops personal and creative plans for her clients. No fitness and nutrition plans are alike with her clients but they all have one common goal they are working towards.
Jessica states Every[BODY] is different, every mind is different, and fully believes in getting to know her clients on a personal level so that she can create the best plans and programs for them to reach nothing but success!
Jessica definitely is passionate about what she does and the results show for themselves. When Jessica isn't training and prepping for a show she can be found exploring the outdoors, driving her jeep, shooting guns and even enjoying the occasional slice of pizza.
If you would like to know more about training, fitness, nutrition or even body building check out her website One 10 training or on IG @the_savagejess
In this week’s episode we sit down and talk with husband, father and founder of Active-Futures, Jeff Forrester. Jeff and I cover so many great topics and had a great conversation. Jeff shares how to:
Actively plan and executing your goals and overcoming adversity.
Not taking our faith for granted and quit taking on a pocket-like faith.
Adding value in every situation and learning to find that untapped potential through the following 4 key points:
- Understanding yourself
- Importance of communication
- Importance of self-development
- Setting the proper course
We didn’t even get to talk about his new book that has just been published, “Unleashed Potential: Simple Steps To Be The Best Version of Yourself”.
Connect with Jeff:
Instagram: @jeff4ester
Website: Active Futures
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This week we visit with Chris DT Gordon of Michigan. Chris was an outstanding guest and I really enjoyed chatting with him and listening to his testimony on how he became a scar bearer in his battle with Necrotizing Fasciitis. Chris contracted this flesh eating bacteria back in 2015 and spent more than 2 months in the hospital and 6 months of Physical Therapy. He is a husband and father of 3 and is an online special education middle school teacher. Chris is a motivational speaker and has since started his own podcast, "Scar Bearers" along with a YouTube channel and continues to stay active even during a crazy quarantine.
He has set or tied 4 PRs since being in the hospital and has completed 3 Ragnars and since recording this podcast achieved his black belt in Tae Kwon Do....so watch your back if you don't listen in to this week's episode. It was an entertaining visit and I look forward to having Chris back on in the future.
This week I was joined with one of my F2E teammates, Aaron Dana. Aaron has a background in soccer and up until July last year never really spent time running. He mainly would run for conditioning, but that was about it. It wasn't until his friend Brandon Rizzo enticed him to start getting some exercise and hiking mountains with him that his passion for running on trails and more kicked in. Aaron has literally been running for a year and just conquered his first 100 mile ultra marathon last weekend at the Mighty Mosquito in Western New York in 26:32 as the 3rd overall male and a 4th overall finish.
I really enjoyed the mindset and attitude Aaron shares with us as he is grateful in everything he is apart of and spent the majority of his 100 sharing his gratefulness for those around him. You will definitely want to listen in on this podcast as Aaron shares how he was able to overcome a lot of the pain and challenges one faces during a 100 miler and is able to replace it with gratitude and joy.
The scripture reference for today's motivation is Matthew 6:34 and encouraged me to not worry about tomorrow and the things going on around me, but rather to focus on today and the ways that I can further the kingdom of heaven. We are to be about our Father's business, so why worry about things we don't have any control over.
This week I had the privilege to speak with Becky Croft from Tulsa, Oklahoma. Becky is the only certified Chi Running coach in the region and has been certified since this last December, but has been practicing it for many years after she was trying to correct her 'heel' strike. She implemented this running style because how important and efficient it helps you in running and assisting in realignment in the body during running. Becky also mixes in yoga several times a week as a compliment to her running.
Becky has been running for the last decade and has run more than 40 half marathons. Her favorite races include the first half marathon she ran in Joplin, Missouri, running in Eugene, Oregon and finishing at the 50 yard line of Autzen Stadium. She has completed 4 marathons and is training for her 5th this next year and was selected in the lottery process to be apart of the 2019 Berlin Marathon which was an amazing adventure for her. She is currently in training for CIM in California in December 2020.
This interview was a very informative one for me and getting a better understanding of different running philosophies and strategies. It is important to keep the mind open to new things and ensure we find something that works well for our bodies and minds.
This week's episode features Stephanie Scocchera (pronounced sko-cara) who resides in sunny Florida, but with a name like that you would expect her to be training along the countryside of Italy.
Stephanie and I have been following each other on social media for a few years and thought it would be fun to have her on as as guest. We covered so much in a 1 hour episode and discussed everything from running to marriage to motherhood to racing to faith. It was a great discussion that connected all the ups and downs of life and the challenges and joys we can associate to running. It was a super fun and great conversation.
This episode was a super special one for me because I had the chance to sit down and chat with my sister Ashley. We had a lot of fun with this episode and there was definitely some sibling rivalry going on with this one. I get to hear from my sister and what has fueled her desires to run as she embarks on a 10K trail race later this fall where she wants to take me down. So sit back and enjoy a fun and light-hearted episode I have with my dear sister. I think you will find it exactly what you needed to hear today. Enjoy!
This week's final installment of the Deep South Series - Georgia features Brad Lord from Macon, Georgia. Brad was a perfect bookend to this series. We had a great conversation and covered things ranging from musical interests to his background as a PE teacher and football coach to being heavily involved in F3 (Fitness, Faith, Fellowship). Brad has ran the Chicago Marathon as well as the Rocket City Marathon and pursues many different hobbies on the side as well; including his love for doing trick shots similar to those made famous by Dude Perfect. Brad also keeps running motivation and his adventures on his YouTube channel "Run with Brad". I highly encourage you all checking him out and listening to this cool dude share a little bit about himself and his passions in this episode.
On this week's episode I sit down with John Robert McKay, A.K.A. the Blind Donkey Runner.
Many would think John would not be able to run due to being visually impaired, but that doesn't stop this thoroughbred. John became legally blind at the age of 2, but that doesn't prevent him from enjoying something he loves to do and that is run.
I enjoyed the conversation John and I had regarding college basketball, ultra marathons, trail running and overcoming life's obstacles and challenges. I hope you will enjoy this episode as much as I did recording it. Thanks for a great chat John!
On episode 1 of the deep south running series I have a great interview with Jack Johnson. Not that Jack Johnson, even though he is has the same name, this Jack is an ultra running machine. Jack and I hooked up on Instagram earlier this year and I knew that he was someone I would like to chat with. We have a lot of common ground and similarities with our families, faith, business mindset and of course ultra running. We dive deep into Jack's past and how he grew up in Florida, but found his way to Georgia and has called it home ever since. Jack shares the challenges that you can face in training and running hundred milers, but of course mentions the crazy humidity and heat that Georgia runners can all associate with.
Jack recently completed a 100 mile race in Chattanooga, Tennessee and also the Pinhoti 100 in November. Jack is an admirable athlete and thrives on what he calls 'Tiger Blood' and how to live life with no fear and taking a simple approach to completing tasks by not over thinking it. Jack is not afraid of failure and sees it as an opportunity for future success in life and ultra running. Jack is huge on relentless forward progress as a mantra during races and can push through the pain and self doubt when faced with adversity. Jack digs deep into his walk with Christ during races and pulls on that strength through prayer and support from his crew chief, his wife Kimeran. I think you will enjoy this great episode.
This week’s episode features Tulsa’s own Justin Walker. While Justin has relocated to the Wichita, Kansas area in the past year, we still consider him a local legend and friend. I really enjoyed having Justin on the podcast and it was like old times when I would venture into Runner’s World on a lunch break and catch up with Justin and pick his brain on ultra-running tips. This interview came on the evening after Justin had just completed a PR 50 miler and a PR 100K and FKT for the Prairie Spirit course in Kansas. Both times were amazing with the 50 mile in 7:17 and the 100K in 9:57. Not too bad for someone who had taken almost two years off from racing ultra-marathons. Justin’s body and mind had been pretty beat up since he completed the TransOklahoma race, two years ago, which consisted of 511 miles in eight days.
Justin has done some amazing things in his 40 years of life and looks to do as much as he can in the next 40. Before Justin became a runner, he was a severe weather meteorologist or “professional storm chaser” as we call them in these parts of the country. Justin’s quest for health and ultra-running started shortly after his time at the University of Oklahoma and would lay in bed nearly sitting up due to extreme heart burn. After moving to Denver, Colorado to work in the weather center in Boulder, Dustin decided to make a change in his health. He cut out bad foods from his diet and dropped a whopping 40 pounds in 6 months. He decided to give running a go after seeing people run at the local park. Not long after Justin had become infatuated with running and would soon embrace the ultra-running life.
Hop on board as Justin and I talk about all things ultra, storm chasing and life in general. This was a fun episode and makes me appreciate my friendship with him even that much more and can’t wait to share with you all.
In today's episode I had a fun time chatting with Dawn Mihalovic-Bayer, from Wisconsin: the Badger state. We touch on so many different things and it was fun to get her perspective and mindset in regards to endurance events. Dawn is a 5 time IronMan finisher and has plans to complete two more this year if the running schedule allows with COVID-19. Dawn is a super positive person and places that attitude and determination based on her upbringing and some life situations that she endured. Dawn takes an approach that she calls the "Sunny Side Up" and I will let you enjoy hearing her inspiration to look at the positive in every situation you face. Dawn also has a strong faith that helps her endure through all the challenges she faces as an IronMan athlete and emergency room P.A. I really enjoyed chatting with her and hearing more about her background, her passion for others and her training perspective. Enjoy the show!!
In this week's episode I visit with Jared Hoffmeyer, a certified fitness instructor. Jared has spent a lot of time providing fitness and wellness in the corporate setting. When he isn't writing up fitness and training plans for others, he can be found working on building his own strength. Jared has been affected like so many with the inability to work out in a gym and provide fitness instruction in a gym that he has begun to be creative around the house and utilize items in his home to continue his strength and conditioning. He offers several suggestions of how to work out during a stay-at-home initiative and when gyms are unavailable. Jared also shares a wealth of information on how he designs training plans for others. Jared not only enjoys lifting heavy and working out, but also enjoys teaching yoga and Zumba classes and loves the interaction with other people. Jared is passionate about helping people achieve their goals and to see them achieve results. I had a fun time catching up with my former trainer and hope you enjoy the episode this week.
In this week’s episode I share some basic principals on how to stay hydrated during the warmer weather and how to calculate your sweat ratio. I hope this episode is insightful and helpful for you.
Here is a helpful link for you when trying to calculate sweat ratio.
https://ksi.uconn.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/1222/2015/04/Sweat-Rate-Calculator.pdf
In this week's episode I sit down with Michael Bacon from Southeast Texas hill country. Michael is a native from the Lone Star state and has been running since he was a youngster. He got his start running shorter distances; including the half marathon, but as he has aged his desire to run longer distances and began embracing ultra marathons. Michael is a down-to-earth good ole' boy who loves spending time with his family, working hard and running. It didn't take long for Michael to embrace running on the trails and prefers that over anything....well almost everything. Michael can be found running down the local tracks often times and logs some solid mileage each and every week. Michael would choose spending time outdoors and logging some miles over watching television any day of the week. This was a fun episode and I hope you will enjoy the down home conversation.
Shortly after this episode recorded, Michael was hit from behind while on a run by a driver under the influence. It is a miracle that he survived and suffered very little injury. We are thankful that God protected him and the driver has been arrested. Here's to a great man who is tough as nails and a trooper.
In this week’s midweek motivation I share 8 different types of running workouts that are common in training plans. It’s important to understand the difference so that you can become stronger, smarter and more prepared when you look at a new training plan. This episode is a great starter for novice runners, but even experienced runners need a fresh reminder.
In this week's episode I sit down and chat with my friend Chrissy Cooper Whitten. I first met Chrissy at a race in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area. Chrissy and her husband were putting the race on in honor of their daughter, Lillian Grace. Lillian was born with Trisomy 18, also known as Edwards syndrome. Lillian was not expected to live and yet she defied the odds and this angel graced the Earth for 103 days. Chrissy has used this pain and grief to push her and inspire her to do more. She runs in honor of all of her daughters and spreads the love of God wherever she goes. Chrissy herself has beaten the odds when she was given a 10% chance of survival from brain surgery. She continues to beats the odds and is a joy to be around. She is a huge inspiration in the ultra running community and never ceases to amaze. Chrissy has conquered three (3) 100 mile ultra marathons with more planned in the near future.
To hear Chrissy share her story brings up so much raw emotion and is an amazing adventure of perseverance through adversity and still being able to see God's hand in everything that has happened. I really enjoyed the opportunity to share some time with my friend and catch up on all that she is doing right now. Drop everything you are doing and listen to this remarkable testimony of God's amazing love that Chrissy shares in this week's episode. Chrissy can be found on Facebook at Chrissy 'Cooper' Whitten https://www.facebook.com/c2mist
This week on the midweek motivation I encourage you to be prepared during this crazy time of uncertainty and share some insight for those who are facing adversity in the world of unemployment. I share some basic tips of survival and preparation for the working man and how to be ready for the battle at hand.
Have a great Wednesday and be prepared!
This week's episode features Chris Elmore. Chris and I met last year when I was on his podcast Rock, Roots and Ruts. He has since re-branded his show and it is known as the CJaye Show. Chris also has a YouTube Channel - CJaye Media that has a focus around his training, family and keeping a balance as an endurance athlete, father and husband. Chris has competed in numerous triathlons including 3 IRONMAN events along with conquering a 100 mile ultra marathon and continues to push the bar higher. Currently Chris is working on his marathon time in hopes to becoming BQ for the Boston Marathon in the future. I am sure you will enjoy this episode as I get to interview one who inspired me in many ways.
In this week's episode I visit with my friend Jared Stump. Jared has a background in media relations, photography and enjoying the run along the way. Jared is not a hardcore ultra runner like so many who are on our show, but has a joy in running and loves getting out and meeting new people, taking in the whole experience and often captures his adventures through photography. He tries not to get so wrapped up in running fast but rather would experience the fun within the run. His adventures have taken him from deep in the heart of Texas to running down the streets of Philadelphia and experiencing the Big Apple. Journey along with us in our discussion and see how Jared is passionate about life and the things he embarks upon.
This week I had the opportunity to visit with my friend Diana. She is a certified L1 trainer and has been doing Cross Fit for the last 4 1/2 years. Diana shares a lot of great and practical fitness and health information; including some at home training tips that can be utilized in our daily lives during all of the crazy 'Stay At Home' orders. Diana enjoys pushing her limits and challenging herself on a regular basis and that is why she loves the mixture of what CrossFit offers her and gives her well-rounded workouts ranging from gymnastics to cycling and power lifting. Spending time investing in others and helping them achieve their goals is also something that pushes her to be a better coach and athlete. I hope that you will be encouraged by this podcast and get something out of it this week to motivate and inspire you to be healthier.
On today's live episode I just share my thoughts on how to stay positive and encouraged during a challenging time. So much craziness is going on around us that we often times get pulled into it and it affects us negatively. We need to be ready to face everything and rise up rather than running away from things. Be strong and courageous and know that you can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens you. Have a blessed Wednesday!
This week I was able to sit down and chat with one of my best friends Brandon Crites. Brandon is a native from Missouri who has a very diverse background in training and development. He is Christ-centered and focused on faith and his family and being one to spread the good news of Christ through all things; especially ultra running. Brandon has a background in other sports including basketball and track. Brandon went from being a sprinter in track to an all around endurance athlete and completing his first 100 mile ultra marathon at Tunnel Hill last November. Brandon was a sub-20 hour finisher and has high expectations to take his ultra running to the next level in 2020 and beyond. Take a listen and I guarantee you will enjoy the visit we had.
In today's episode I sit down with Dustin Johnson. He has a really solid athletics background and played all of the sports; including collegiate baseball, but his real passion was long distance running. As a baseball player he would still go out and do his running with the cross country team because of the like-mindedness. Dustin has always felt a connection with runners and running. Dustin is also a Navy veteran and served four years for our country. Several of his tours took him all across the world and gave him a glimpse of places he would eventually run later on. Dustin continued the family tradition of serving and while originally planning on stopping the tradition, picked up the torch from his father and continued the legacy. After his time in the Navy, Dustin began to get plugged back into civilian life, but soon began to face demons when he tried to readjust back into society and ultimately almost perished from trying to escape the weight on his shoulders. Dustin did not want to put his burden on anyone else and speaks about how it is important to put your pride aside and talk to someone. Dustin had an ultra running friend who got him into touch with the Run Around the World organization and this gave Dustin motivation and inspiration. He took this along with his passion of running and set out to be come the youngest and first American to ever complete the 26,500 km (16,400 mile) run across 4 continents. Dustin teamed up with Stop Soldier Suicide to raise awareness for our veterans and the 22 that take their life every day. Dustin shares a lot of his background and struggles and takes us through his race around the world in this invigorating podcast. May is mental health awareness month and this was a perfect podcast to represent how to battle against mental health.
Meili is an ultra-running beast residing in the state of California and has come onto the ultra running scene strong in the last two years. She has reached the podium in more than a dozen races and has competed in some pretty well known ultras in the US: the Javelina Jundred, Across The Years, the Beyond Limits 100 and the Nanny Goat 24 hour event.
She is quickly becoming a well known fixture in the running community and looks to make a big impact in the months ahead. I think you will enjoy the back and forth conversation as we discuss everything from hydration, nutrition, training plans and all the craziness behind ultra running.
In this week's mid-week episode I sit down and visit with my good friend Jason Lorenz on his running background and discuss the experiences he has recently gone through while running his first 50 mile race and then leading into his first 100 mile finish. The road has been far from perfect with plenty of challenges and issues that flare up along the way, but as Jason would say, he is determined to get it done regardless of what he faces. He relentlessly moves forward. Jason enjoys spending time running with his bride Becky and his brother Jamie and they share the joy of pounding the pavement and plan to do so for a long time. When Jason isn't running you can find him, angling at a local lake, rooting on his favorite team, the Oklahoma Sooners, or riding off into the sunset with Becky on his Harley. Jason is a great guy and a lot of fun getting to know and share miles on the road with. I hope you enjoy the episode.
This week on the Scarecrow Runner podcast I had the privilege to chat with David Theriot, a native Cajun from Louisiana, who found himself running hundred mile ultra marathons after rehabbing from an ACL Tear during Jujitsu.
David has an extraordinary ultra running resume and has embarked on the likes of Western States, The Tahoe 200 and the Arkansas Traveler. Later this year he anticipates to take part in the Triple Crown: 3 - 200+ mile ultra marathons. David also likes to dress up in awesome costumes while running in local races. And when he is not running crazy distances he enjoys watching the New Orleans Saints play football. Who dat?
This week in the mid-week motivation, Anthony shares about being disciplined in our daily lives. Without a game plan, direction and discipline our lives will become unbalanced and chaotic. Have a blessed Wednesday and be encouraged.
This weeks episode features Sean Lewis, a two-time 100 mile finisher, triathlete, boccia ball player, man of faith, advocate and motivational speaker. Sean does not let odds or Cerebral Palsy define him or slow him down. When Sean isn't competing in hundred mile races or triathlon events, he enjoys watching OU football, spending time with friends and hosting his own podcast and video blogs "Running with Sean Lewis" as shown on YouTube and heard on podcast apps everywhere. I hope you will be inspired and encouraged by Sean's story.
So many of us are facing challenges and obstacles right now due to COVID-19. We must persevere and endure the things we face; not lose hope and keep our faith. Regardless of what we are going through right now I wanted to encourage the listeners to dig deep and Go the Distance. Life is a journey and not a sprint. It is much like an ultra marathon and will take time, energy, effort and you will face adversity and obstacles along the way. Don't quit or give up too soon. Don't let these things distract you and detour you. Go the Distance.
This week I had the opportunity to visit with Tulsa's own April Shroff. April is well known around the Tulsa running scene notching numerous podium appearances in the shorter distance races, but shares that she is ready to 'slow her roll' and begin to embrace the dark side many of us know as ultra running. Take a listen and hear the heart of a champion, cheerleader and outstanding runner who shares a some great advice and inspiration.
In this midweek motivation, Anthony inspires you to do hard things during hard times. Great things never come out of your comfort zone. Press through the hard times and rise to the occasion. Great things are on the horizon for those who refuse to settle.
In this week's episode I had the distinct privilege to talk with Brian Hoover. Brian has a very rich background in ultra running and exploring trails. He became a Race Director and began organizing unique races in the Tulsa area. This passion eventually led to him spending less time organizing races and more geared to being the official timer for the races. A dream that Brian had tucked away deep inside began to bubble out of him a few years ago and he traded away his so-called normal life for that of an adventurer hiking locations like the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and other exciting locations.
Today's message is a motivation for those who need some ideas on keeping their fitness up and running during the Stay At Home orders and quarantine so many are facing right now in the craziness worldwide due to COVID-19.
In this week's episode Anthony talks with ultra running and personal development coach, Cliff Pittman. Cliff is a former serviceman in the U.S. Army, cross fit athlete and has now turned his focus on ultra running along with being a mindset and endurance coach. It was a real treat to hear about his background and how it led him to where he is today.
In this week's episode Anthony visits with a former collegiate teammate and OCR athlete, James McVay. James reminisces about days gone by along with tying that experience into adulthood, continuous training, OCR and now coaching HS volleyball.
Joel is a runner who has decided to embrace the idea of becoming an ultra runner. In today's episode, Joel talks about his beginnings as a novice runner, balancing life and turning to ultra running and embracing new challenges. He shares a good perspective of how anyone can become an ultra runner as long as you get moving. You can follow Joel on Instagram at @ruunjjrun
In this week's episode, Anthony discusses injury prevention and how to maintain a good balance as a runner.
In this first episode, Anthony dives into the vision of this podcast and what it will be about going forward. Along the way, Anthony shares about some of his background and journey into running and ultimately into ultrarunning.