Brian and Mandy chat with the amazing Ana Robbins about her recent feat at the inaugural Monster 300! Discover how this Georgia runner, who only started ultras in 2020, went from zero to 300+ miles. Ana shares her rapid progression, the unique experience of inaugural races, and why she skipped shorter distances. Hear about her unconventional training for the Monster, the power of mindset, and the surprising camaraderie of the ultra community. Plus, get the hilarious details of drop bag disasters, unexpected pacer connections, trailside naps, and the unexpected comfort of Crocs on the long road. Tune in for an inspiring story of pushing limits and the incredible bonds forged in ultra-endurance.

Prepare to be inspired! This week, we delve into the extraordinary world of ultrarunning with the seemingly ordinary Jon Maaraoui. Don't let appearances fool you – Jon's journey is a testament to the incredible resilience of the human spirit. Despite facing significant health challenges from a young age, challenges that would sideline most, Jon has not only embraced ultrarunning but thrived within its demanding landscape.

Join us as we explore the deeply personal side of endurance sports, uncovering the mental fortitude required to push beyond perceived limitations. We'll discuss Jon's battles with his health, the vital role of community support in overcoming adversity, and the surprising wisdom gleaned from those dreaded DNFs (Did Not Finish). This isn't just a conversation about running; it's an exploration of personal growth, the power of giving back through volunteering, and the unbreakable bonds that unite the ultrarunning family. Get ready to be moved by a story of courage, perseverance, and the profound lessons learned one step at a time.

In this engaging conversation, Amy Tucker, founder of Salty Britches, shares her journey of creating a product born out of necessity for her son, who suffered from saltwater chafing. The discussion delves into the challenges of building a brand, the importance of community support, and the lessons learned from both entrepreneurship and ultra running. Amy emphasizes the significance of family involvement, the trials of product development, and her aspirations for the future of Salty Britches, all while highlighting the personal growth that comes from pushing boundaries and embracing challenges.

In this episode of Buckle Up, Simon and Brian discuss their recent ultra running experiences, the challenges faced during races, and the importance of volunteers. Simon shares his decision to step down from the podcast due to personal commitments, reflecting on the journey they've had together. They also talk about upcoming races and the future of the podcast, emphasizing the need for constructive criticism in race events and the value of community support in ultra running.

In this conversation, Tommy Byrne shares his journey as an ultra runner and the founder of Bigger Than the Trail, an organization dedicated to supporting mental health through the running community. He discusses the mission of his organization, the importance of mental health advocacy, and the growth and future vision for Bigger Than the Trail. Tommy also shares insights on balancing family life with training for ultra marathons, particularly the Western States 100, and the challenges and rewards of fundraising for mental health initiatives.

00:00Introduction to Tommy Byrne and His Journey

06:58Bigger Than The Trail: Founding and Mission

09:09Mental Health Advocacy Through Running

11:25Services Offered by Bigger Than The Trail

13:40Growth and Community Impact

16:06Fundraising Strategies and Challenges

18:16Personal Experiences and Community Support

20:36Behind the Scenes of the Organization

23:09Training for Western States

25:28The Midwest Ultra-Running Community

25:44Weather and Race Conditions26:29Winter Racing Challenges

27:18Training Structure and Goals

28:15Ambitious Goals for Western States

29:50Balancing Family Life and Training

32:25Crew and Support for Races

33:28Future Aspirations for Bigger Than the Trail

Visit the website to help:

https://www.bttt.run/

In this conversation, physical therapist Brian Burkhardt discusses the common injuries faced by runners, particularly ultra runners, and how to prevent and treat them. The discussion covers various injuries such as runner's knee, IT band syndrome, plantar fasciitis, and shin splints, emphasizing the importance of proper training, listening to one's body, and the role of physical therapy in recovery. The conversation also touches on the mental aspects of running and the importance of maintaining a sustainable approach to the sport.

In this episode, Brian, Simon, and Nora discuss Nora's journey to completing her first 100-mile run. They explore the challenges of training, injury recovery, and the importance of community support. The conversation delves into the planning and logistics of the run, the mental barriers faced during the race, and the strategies used to overcome them. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the significance of enjoying the journey and learning from experiences in ultra running. In this conversation, Nora and Simon share their experiences during a challenging 100-mile ultra marathon. They discuss various strategies for pacing, the importance of nutrition and hydration, and the mental challenges faced during the race. The conversation highlights the significance of support from pacers and the physical struggles encountered, including hiccups and pain management. They reflect on the journey, the lessons learned, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from completing such a demanding event.

In this episode, Ricky Urias shares his journey into ultra running, discussing his experiences with addiction, personal struggles, and the supportive community within the sport. He reflects on his participation in various races, including the Hurt 100, and emphasizes the importance of mental health support through organizations like Bigger Than the Trail. The conversation highlights the resilience and camaraderie found in the ultra running community, as well as the personal growth that comes from overcoming challenges.