What does it really mean to earn every mile?

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, I sit down with Anthony Costales, an elite ultrarunner who has stood on major podiums while balancing a full life outside the sport. Teaching, coaching, family, and still showing up day after day to compete at the highest level.

We talk about the reality behind long-distance running. The mental swings inside hundred-mile races. Lessons from Western States and CCC. Why consistency beats talent. Why curiosity matters more than confidence. And why there are no shortcuts in endurance.

This conversation isn’t about hype or results alone. It’s about discipline, patience, setbacks, recovery, and choosing hard things on purpose.

If you care about endurance, mindset, and the human side of ultrarunning, this episode is for you.

🔑 KEYWORDS

ultrarunning podcast, anthony costales, trail running, endurance mindset, western states 100, ccc utmb, elite ultrarunner, long distance running, mental toughness, running consistency, endurance training, balancing life and running, pushing horizons podcast

What does it really mean to choose hard things on purpose?

In this episode, we sit down with one of the most accomplished endurance athletes of our time to unpack the mindset behind extreme challenges. From solo ocean crossings to back-to-back ultramarathons, this conversation goes beyond achievements and into intention.

We talk about fear, discipline, mental fatigue, purpose-driven endurance, and why doing difficult things isn’t about proving anything to others. It’s about knowing yourself, serving something bigger, and showing up when quitting would be easier.

If you’re into ultrarunning, endurance sports, mindset, or building resilience through discomfort, this episode will hit home.

Keywords: endurance mindset, ultrarunning podcast, choosing hard things, mental toughness, purpose-driven endurance, extreme endurance athlete, resilience, discipline, pushing limits

What does it really mean to belong at the front of the pack?

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, I sit down with elite ultrarunner Lotti Brinks to talk about the journey from showing up unsure, to racing with confidence against the best in the world.

We dive into her breakthrough performances, including major ultra wins, course records, earning a Golden Ticket, and racing at Western States. But more importantly, we talk about the mental side of elite racing, handling pressure, executing on race day, and learning to trust your training when it matters most.

This episode is for runners chasing improvement, confidence, and that feeling of belonging, whether you’re racing your first ultra or lining up at the front.

Keywords:
ultrarunning podcast, trail running, elite ultrarunner, Western States 100, Golden Ticket racing, mindset in ultras, endurance running, women in trail running, Pushing Horizons podcast, long distance running, confidence in racing