In this episode of the Ultra Crewed Podcast, hosts Becca and Jon delve into various themes surrounding ultra running, personal responsibility, and community engagement. They discuss the importance of acknowledging one's own actions and the impact of external factors on personal growth. The conversation also touches on the responsibilities of dog ownership, tips for running with long hair, and strategies to avoid burnout in the sport. Throughout the episode, they emphasize the significance of community support and the need for balance in one's running journey. In this episode, Becca and Jon discuss the importance of recovery and self-reflection in the context of ultra running, particularly as they prepare for the Feral Mountain 100. They delve into training insights, gear and nutrition planning, and the logistics of crew coordination for race day. The conversation emphasizes the mental preparation required for long-distance running and the significance of having a well-organized support system. As they anticipate the race, they share their excitement and strategies for success.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Ultra Crewed Podcast

01:45 Responsibility in Ultra Running and Life

09:16 The Dog Debate: Love and Responsibility

13:52 Running with Long Hair: Tips and Tricks

18:28 Avoiding Burnout in Ultra Running

30:16 The Importance of Recovery and Self-Reflection

32:07 Preparing for the Feral Mountain 100

34:31 Training Insights and Mental Preparation

37:14 Gear and Nutrition Planning for Ultra Running

52:17 Crew Coordination and Logistics for Race Day

56:58 Final Thoughts and Anticipation for the Race

• "It's your responsibility to know the course."
• "I love dogs. Truly, truly do."
• "You can't hoard all the energy."
• "No one cares more than you care."
• "It's cool to run ultras, but nobody's calling."
• "You have to prioritize rest and rejuvenation."
• "There's gotta be recovery for the work."
• "Maybe you need to step back, look inward."
• "You just ruined someone else's day."
• "I'm excited to get down there and run."
• "You should never be up as long as your runner."

Takeaways

• Responsibility for one's actions is crucial in both life and ultra running.
• People often deflect accountability onto others instead of self-reflecting.
• Dog ownership comes with responsibilities that affect the community.
• Running with long hair can be enjoyable but requires some care.
• Burnout in ultra running can stem from making the sport one's entire identity.
• Community engagement and volunteering can help prevent burnout.
• It's important to prioritize rest and rejuvenation in a busy lifestyle.
• Avoiding accountability is easier in today's social media-driven world.
• Self-evaluation is necessary for growth and improvement in running.
• No one cares more about your running achievements than you do. Recovery is essential for achieving goals.
• Self-reflection can help manage stress and burnout.
• Preparation for races includes both physical and mental aspects.
• Nutrition planning is crucial for endurance events.
• Having a reliable crew can significantly impact race performance.
• Organization of gear and supplies can save time during races.
• Communication with the crew is vital for smooth operations.

• Mental preparation is as important as physical training.

Becca and Jon discuss their recent experiences at various running events in Tennessee, emphasizing the importance of community and conservation efforts in preserving green spaces. They share insights on the challenges of running in busy parks, the etiquette of using Bluetooth speakers while running, and the necessity of keeping dogs on leashes in public spaces. The conversation highlights the joys and frustrations of the running community, as well as the beauty of nature and the need for responsible outdoor practices. In this conversation, Becca and Jon discuss the importance of respecting shared spaces and the consequences of one's actions. They reflect on personal experiences in outdoor settings, emphasizing accountability and the need for individuals to face the repercussions of their behavior. The dialogue also touches on societal norms, parenting, and the impact of social media on interpersonal interactions.

Takeaways

• The weather was perfect for running events.
• Community efforts are crucial for conservation in Tennessee.
• Races provide opportunities to explore unique trails.
• Quiet time in nature is essential for mental health.
• Bluetooth speakers can be disruptive on trails.
• Dog owners should always use leashes in public parks.
• Running events foster camaraderie among participants.
• Conservation trusts play a vital role in preserving land.
• Busy parks can detract from the joy of running.
• Respecting nature and fellow runners enhances the experience. Respecting shared spaces is crucial for community harmony.
• Accountability is a key aspect of personal growth.
• Facing consequences helps individuals mature and learn.
• Avoiding consequences can lead to a stunted sense of responsibility.
• Social media can distort real-life interactions and accountability.
• Understanding others' experiences fosters empathy in shared environments.
• Parents should model accountability for their children.
• Consequences of actions can be life-altering in outdoor activities.
• Everyone has a role in maintaining community standards.
• Learning from experiences is essential for personal development.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Ultra Crewed Podcast

01:09 Community and Conservation in Tennessee

03:30 Racing and Running Events

06:50 Experiences at Rim Runner Race

09:50 The Importance of Quiet in Nature

11:45 Bluetooth Speakers on the Trail

18:13 Dog Leash Etiquette in Parks

28:09 Navigating Shared Spaces and Rules

33:12 Consequences of Actions and Accountability

37:15 The Importance of Facing Consequences

43:43 Learning from Experience and Growth

51:36 Understanding Others and Shared Spaces

Becca and Jon discuss various topics related to ultra marathons, including the impact of weather on race conditions, the importance of hydration and electrolytes, and how to differentiate between injury and discomfort during races. They also talk about Tennessee's first 200 miler Big Al's. They also emphasize the need for runners to listen to their bodies and make informed decisions about their health and performance. Becca discusses her experiences with phantom pain, the mental resilience required in endurance sports, and the importance of distinguishing between discomfort and injury. They emphasize the need for safety and crew support during races, introduces the Big Al's 200, and shares insights on managing weather challenges during races. The conversation highlights the spirit of perseverance in ultra running and the benefits of accessible ultra events for building confidence.

• Weather can significantly impact race conditions.
• Hydration is crucial; don't rely solely on electrolyte drinks.
• Understanding the difference between injury and discomfort is vital.
• Listening to your body can prevent long-term injuries.
• Salt tablets can be more effective than electrolyte drinks alone.
• Track your calorie and electrolyte intake during races.
• Crew members should help monitor runners' nutrition.
• Pain signals can be misleading; focus on overall body mechanics.
• It's important to be cautious and not push through injuries.
• Runners should prioritize long-term health over short-term gains. Phantom pain can feel real but is often a mental construct.
• Ignoring phantom pain can prevent it from becoming a reality.
• Understanding the difference between discomfort and injury is crucial.
• Safety should always be prioritized in endurance sports.
• Crew support is essential for a positive racing experience.
• Big Owls is designed to be a laid-back ultra event.
• Weather can significantly impact race management and safety.
• Perseverance is key in ultra running, regardless of conditions.
• Accessible ultra events can build confidence for future challenges.
• The motivation to keep going must come from within.

In this episode of the Ultra Crewed Podcast, hosts Jon Cox and Becca Jones discuss their busy week, including race preparations and weekend fun. They address a listener's question about heart rate training for trail running, emphasizing the importance of slowing down and listening to one's body. The conversation also includes light-hearted personal questions, revealing insights into their preferences and habits.Exploreing the concept of wanting to do hard things, questioning the motivations behind this desire, and the deeper reasons for pursuing challenges. The discussion delves into personal growth, the importance of understanding one's 'why', and the transformative power of embracing adversity. Reflecting on experiences in ultra running and how they connect to self-discovery and resilience, ultimately emphasizing the significance of realizing one's potential through challenging experiences.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Weekly Recap

06:52 Race Preparation and Community Engagement

08:50 Listener Question: Heart Rate Training

16:02 Fun Personal Questions and Insights

27:28 The Desire to Do Hard Things

32:26 Exploring the Why Behind Hard Challenges

41:32 Embracing the Wild Within

49:42 Realizing Potential Through Adversity

• There are many hard challenges outside of physical activities like running.
• Sometimes, we want hard things to be easier rather than truly embracing the challenge.
• Understanding the deeper reasons for pursuing hard challenges can lead to personal growth.
• Facing adversity can reveal our true potential and capabilities.
• The journey of self-discovery often involves embracing discomfort and challenges.
• Community and connection play a vital role in overcoming difficult experiences.
• It's important to find activities that ignite passion and motivation within us.
• Realizing our potential can be a daunting but rewarding process.
• The pursuit of personal growth often requires a willingness to confront our inner struggles.

In this episode Becca Jones and Big Jon discuss their personal updates, including the challenges of the past week and their experiences at a recent race. They delve into the excitement of March Madness, particularly focusing on the Barkley Marathons, and share their thoughts on the post-race blues, emphasizing the hormonal changes that runners experience after completing a race. The conversation highlights the importance of community in ultra running and the emotional rollercoaster that follows significant events. In this conversation, they discuss the unique challenges faced by endurance athletes, particularly the paradox of achievement where completing a significant race can lead to feelings of weakness and isolation. They explore the phenomenon of post-race blues, offering strategies for recovery and community engagement. The conversation also delves into coping mechanisms for dealing with injuries and the mental health challenges that arise from them. Ultimately, emphasizing the importance of finding joy in activities beyond running and staying connected with the community.

Takeaways

• It's important to take time off for self-care.
• The Barkley Marathons is a significant event in ultra running.
• Post-race blues can be influenced by hormonal changes.
• Community support is vital in ultra running.
• Understanding the emotional impact of racing is crucial.
• Runners should be mindful of their recovery process.

• Being in an ultra running bubble can lead to a stark contrast with everyday life.
• It's okay to feel off after a big race.
• Finding the next goal can help alleviate post-race blues. Endurance sports often lack tangible rewards compared to other achievements.
• Post-race blues are common and can be addressed through reflection and community.
• Engaging in new activities can help combat feelings of isolation after a race.
• Volunteering in the running community can provide a sense of purpose post-race.
• Recognizing the normalcy of feeling down after a big event is crucial for recovery.
• Rest and quality sleep are essential for physical and mental recovery.
• Finding a new routine can help maintain a sense of normalcy after a race.
• Injuries require a shift in mindset and focus on alternative activities.
• Staying connected with a coach can provide support during recovery.
• The running community is always welcoming and can help alleviate feelings of loneliness.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates

10:47 March Madness and Barkley Marathons

20:22 Post-Race Blues and Hormonal Changes

29:04 The Paradox of Achievement in Endurance Sports

33:17 Navigating Post-Race Blues

34:05 Strategies for Recovery and Community Engagement

41:42 Coping with Injury and Mental Health

49:08 Finding Joy Beyond Running

In this episode Jon and BMFJ discuss various topics ranging from their personal experiences with food assembly at restaurants to deeper conversations about mental health and the role of running as a coping mechanism. They explore the importance of addressing failure in both running and life. The conversation highlights the complexities of mental health issues within the running community and the need for personal growth beyond achievements. They explore the intricate relationship between identity, achievement, and mental health. Discussing how personal identities are formed, the challenges faced when those identities are threatened, and the importance of self-acceptance. The dialogue emphasizes the need to separate self-worth from achievements and the impact of mental health on personal identity.

Takeaways

Running should be therapeutic, but it shouldn't be therapy.

Mental health struggles are common among runners.

Failure is a complex topic that requires unpacking.

Coping mechanisms can be both healthy and unhealthy.

Personal growth is essential beyond just athletic achievements.

Identity can be deeply tied to personal achievements.

When identities are threatened, it can lead to feelings of loss and confusion.

Self-worth should not be solely based on accomplishments.

Understanding oneself is a continuous journey of self-discovery.

Mental health plays a significant role in how we perceive our identities.

It's important to recognize that results do not define who we are.

Vulnerability in discussing mental health can foster connection and understanding.

Coping mechanisms can sometimes mask deeper issues.

Accepting oneself as a work in progress is a healthy mindset.

Everyone has unique gifts and talents that contribute to their identity.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Lazy Saturday Vibes

02:52 Food Assembly Frustrations

06:10 Death Row Meal Discussions

08:50 Listener Questions and Community Engagement

14:05 Building the Arena and Community Efforts

16:48 Mental Health and Running

23:46 Coping Mechanisms in Running

25:07 Identity and Its Impact on Self-Perception

30:22 The Journey of Self-Discovery

35:16 Understanding Achievement and Identity

41:02 Mental Health and Identity

46:05 Navigating Vulnerability and Mental Health

In this episode of the Ultra Crewed Podcast, hosts Jon Cox and Becca Jones engage in a lively discussion covering nutrition strategies for training and race days, the unique experience of visiting Nashville, and the often taboo subject of DNF (Did Not Finish) in races.

They emphasize the importance of understanding personal limits and the role of failure in the journey of an ultrarunner. In this conversation, Becca Jones discusses the importance of embracing failure as a means of personal growth and accountability. They emphasize the need for radical accountability in both running and life, encouraging listeners to recognize their roles in their failures and successes. The discussion also covers setting realistic expectations for oneself and the significance of being honest about one's capabilities and experiences. Ultimately, the conversation aims to inspire individuals to push their limits while understanding that failure is a natural part of the journey towards success.

Takeaways

We're planning to get married in the spring, but not this spring.

Post-run nutrition should include protein and carbs within an hour.

During training runs, aim for 200-300 calories an hour based on individual needs.

Experiment with different nutrition strategies to find what works for you.

People visiting Nashville often dress in costumes, creating a unique atmosphere.

There's a time and place for DNFing; it's not always a failure.

Failure in ultrarunning is often stigmatized, but it's a part of the journey.

Moral victories can be comforting, but they shouldn't overshadow actual performance.

Understanding your limits is crucial in ultrarunning.

The conversation around failure needs to be more open and honest. High expectations are important for growth.

Accepting failure is crucial for long-term success.

Honesty with oneself is key to improvement.

Accountability helps in recognizing failures.

Radical accountability means taking responsibility for everything.

Setting realistic expectations can guide performance.

Failure is a learning opportunity, not a setback.

You must protect your goals to achieve them.

Understanding your role in failures is essential.

Success requires openness to feedback and honesty.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Engagement

02:42 Nutrition for Runners

11:05 The Nashville Experience

18:50 The DNF Discussion

24:46 Embracing Failure in Ultra Running

27:05 Embracing Failure for Growth

32:34 The Importance of Accountability

36:47 Radical Accountability in Life

41:07 Setting Realistic Expectations

46:27 Learning from Failure

52:08 The Path to Success Through Honesty

In this episode of the Ultra Crewed Podcast, hosts Becca Jones and Jon discuss their recent experiences in trail running, including the upcoming construction of an arena for the Mid-State Mile event. They delve into the challenges of trail running, particularly the inevitability of falls and how to recover from them. The conversation also touches on the importance of self-assessment after injuries, the need for wilderness first aid knowledge, and the etiquette of running in trails. Listeners are encouraged to embrace the community aspect of running while being mindful of safety and respect for fellow runners. They share their experiences and insights from trail running, focusing on the importance of race experience, nutrition strategies, mental resilience, and the long-term journey of personal growth in endurance sports. Emphasizing the need to stay focused on one's own race. The discussion also highlights the significance of patience and understanding one's timeline for success, both in racing and in life.

Takeaways

The Mid-State Mile is evolving with the construction of an arena.

Falling is a common experience in trail running.

Assessing injuries is vital for safe recovery.

Wilderness first aid training is recommended for trail runners.

Self-assessment after a fall can prevent further injury.

Trail running etiquette is important for safety.

It's okay to prioritize enjoyment over competition in races.

Preparation for unexpected situations in trail running is essential. Embrace the challenges of trail running for personal growth.

Sign up for races to gain valuable experience.

Environmental responsibility is important for trail runners.

Focus on your own race and avoid distractions from others.

Success is a long-term journey, not an instant achievement.

Patience is essential in both racing and life.

Grant yourself grace during tough moments.

Chapters

01:07 Building the Future: The Arena Project

05:24 Experiencing the Music City Trail Ultra

05:57 Listener Question: Recovering from Falls

10:10 Assessing Injuries and Wilderness First Aid

14:48 The Importance of Self-Assessment in Trail Running

19:55 Trail Running Etiquette and Safety

22:59 The Joy of Trail Running: Personal Experiences

26:09 Embracing the Challenge of Trail Running

27:07 The Importance of Race Experience

28:14 Nutrition Strategies for Endurance Races

29:32 Mental Resilience in Racing

31:54 The Role of Music in Motivation

33:20 Environmental Responsibility on the Trail

34:28 Staying Focused on Your Own Race

38:00 The Long Game: Patience in Progress

44:32 Understanding Your Timeline for Success