Episodes
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Summary
In this conversation, Scott Jones and Mari Lowe discuss Mari's journey from training for her first ultra marathon to summiting Kilimanjaro. They explore the mental and physical challenges of ultra running, the importance of training, and the personal growth that comes from facing fears. Mari shares her experiences with cultural insights from Tanzania, the logistics of her trip, and the impact of her adventures on her perspective of life. In this conversation, Mari Lowe shares her transformative experience of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, detailing the preparation, the challenges faced during the ascent, and the camaraderie built among the group. She reflects on the physical and mental hurdles of altitude sickness, the emotional support from fellow climbers, and the personal growth achieved through this adventure. Mari also discusses her future aspirations in outdoor activities and the importance of community in overcoming challenges.
Takeaways
Mary faced trepidation before summiting Kilimanjaro, highlighting the mental challenges of adventure. Training for the ultra marathon taught Mary about her mental toughness and ability to push through. Mary's experience with the ultra marathon was empowering, allowing her to confront her fears of heights. The winter training for Kilimanjaro was psychologically challenging without a running goal. Mary learned to appreciate the importance of strength training in her fitness routine. Traveling to Tanzania provided Mary with humbling insights into cultural and economic disparities. Mary enjoyed the local food in Tanzania, which was fresh and grown nearby. The experience of hiking Kilimanjaro was enhanced by the support of local guides and porters. Mary's perspective on fitness and health has changed significantly since working with a coach. The conversation emphasizes the value of adventure in personal growth and perspective. Preparation is key for a successful climb. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level. Mental toughness is as important as physical strength. Camaraderie among climbers enhances the experience. Hydration and nutrition are crucial at high altitudes. Summit night is both physically and mentally challenging. Experiencing nature can be a profound and grounding experience. Post-adventure blues are common after significant challenges. Reflecting on experiences helps in personal growth. Future adventures are essential for continued motivation.Run with Us: Becoming Ultra
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Adapting Goals and Overcoming Challenges in Ultra Training. Pivoting is not quitting.
In this episode of Becoming Ultra Season 16, host Scott Jones and coaches Ian and Carrie discuss Carrie's decision to shift her training focus from a 50k race to a half marathon. Due to recurring injuries and the demands of scaling her business, Carrie reflects on the emotional and physical challenges she faced in making this decision.
The conversation highlights the importance of adaptability and resilience in ultra-running, emphasizing how setbacks can lead to new opportunities and healthier habits. The team also discusses ongoing physical therapy and the mental adjustments required to stay motivated and find joy in the process.
00:00 Introduction and Updates
00:28 Carrie's Shift in Focus
01:31 Emotional Decision and Business Challenges
04:55 New Goals and Adjustments
06:24 Physical Therapy and Running Mechanics
08:34 Adapting to Changes
10:46 Reflections and Moving Forward
19:06 Conclusion and Future Plans
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Missing episodes?
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Becoming Ultra: Training Tales and Marathon Musings with Denise and Addie.
In this episode of 'Becoming Ultra,' Denise and Addie catch up on Denise's running journey, discussing her increasing mileage, recent crewing experience, and upcoming training race.
Denise shares her pain-free yet challenging training progress, including a memorable long run in Griffith Park and plans to run the LA Marathon as part of her training.
Addie reflects on her own marathon experience and offers advice on pacing and race preparation. The conversation also touches on the unique challenges and setups in ultra-running, the importance of self-care while crewing, and the contrasting dynamics of road and trail running.
Tune in for insights, personal anecdotes, and tips for runners at all levels.
00:00 Introduction and Catching Up
00:31 Training Updates and Challenges
02:05 Griffith Park Memories
5:03 Crewing and Pacing Experiences
11:43 Upcoming LA Marathon
19:53 Concluding Thoughts and Announcements
Come run with us in Colorado
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In this episode of 'Becoming Ultra', Scott, Ian, and his coaching client, Carrie, discuss the emotional and physical hurdles faced during Carrie's preparation for her first ultra marathon, the Mendocino 50k.
The conversation delves into the common struggles of first-time ultra runners, the importance of learning from setbacks, and finding balance amidst a busy life. Carrie shares her personal journey, dealing with injuries, and managing a business, while receiving valuable insights and encouragement from Ian and Scott. They emphasize viewing the bigger picture and appreciating the progress made, despite not always meeting immediate goals.
00:00 Introduction to Becoming Ultra
00:25 The Challenges of Training for Your First Ultra
02:10 Carrie's Personal Struggles and Progress
05:23 Balancing Life and Training
09:12 Finding Motivation and Adjusting Goals
11:28 The Importance of Self-Care and Perspective
20:23 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
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Training for Your First Ultra: Overcoming Challenges with Deidre
In this epsode, Scott and Deidre discuss her journey of training for her first ultra-marathon scheduled in Mendocino, California. They explore challenges she has faced recently, including minor injuries, stomach issues, and strategies to overcome them.
Some of the topics include the importance of communication with her coach, proper nutrition and hydration strategies during long runs, and how to manage the physical demands of increasing mileage.
Deidre shares her progress, the support she has received, and how she is mentally and physically preparing for race day.
00:00 Introduction and Training Overview
01:03 Current Training Status and Challenges
03:20 Foot Pain and Shoe Tightness
05:13 Long Runs and Physical Condition
06:38 Stomach Issues and Fueling Strategies
09:44 Caloric Intake and Nutrition Tips
15:14 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
Come run with us here, or here!
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Creating Inclusive Athletic Opportunities: The Kyle Pease Foundation Story
In this engaging conversation, two brothers from Atlanta, Brent and Kyle Pease, share their inspiring story and the creation of the Kyle Pease Foundation aimed at promoting inclusion in sports for people with disabilities. The discussion highlights their journey from memorable childhood sports moments to completing multiple Ironman events and the significant impact of their foundation. They delve into training regimes, facing adversity, family support, and their hopes for the future. The conversation emphasizes the power of endurance sports in bringing people together and creating unique opportunities for those with disabilities.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:09 Atlanta Traffic Woes
00:56 Brent's Scary Breakdown Story
01:31 Introducing the Kyle Pease Foundation
01:47 Inspiration from Dick and Rick Hoyt
03:00 Kyle's Love for Sports
03:41 The Birth of the Kyle Pease Foundation
04:47 Challenges and Triumphs in Endurance Sports
07:30 Kyle's Early Life and Cerebral Palsy
09:06 Parenting Styles and Family Dynamics
14:58 Training and Competing Together
28:07 Family Support and Reactions
30:23 Baseball Fandom and Childhood Memories
31:51 Parenting and Family Values
33:20 Ironman Challenges and Strategies
35:56 Fueling and Nutrition for Endurance Events
41:36 Overcoming Adversity in Races
46:28 Foundation Goals and Community Impact
49:15 Fun and Personal Insights
52:40 Final Thoughts and Future Plans
Come and be a part of one of our live events from races to retreats at Becoming Ultra.
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In the first call of 2025, Denise catches up with her coach Addie about her training progress for her first ultra marathon, set for April 19th in Mendocino.
They discuss balancing holiday breaks, ski trips, and work commitments, and address ongoing air quality issues in Southern California. Denise talks about her company's efforts to support associates affected by the Pacific Palisades fire.
The conversation also covers Denise's cross-training activities, including a high-altitude skiing trip and her experience with recovery and endurance.
The episode concludes with advice on specific training inquiries and race day preparations.
00:00 Welcome and Introductions
00:23 Holiday Recap and Balancing Life
00:59 Weather and Relocation Updates
01:31 Denise's Work and Community Efforts
03:34 Grocery Industry Insights
05:10 Ski Trip and Cross Training
08:14 Training Progress and Future Plans
12:25 Final Thoughts and Next Steps
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In this episode of Becoming Ultra, host Scott Jones interviews Carrie and her coach Ian Sharman.
Carrie is training for her first Ultra marathon on April 19th in Mendocino.
They discuss several key aspects of her training regimen, including a recent sleep study that diagnosed her with moderate sleep apnea, and the use of a CPAP machine to improve her sleep quality.
Other topics covered include gait analysis, fueling strategies during training, and the importance of incremental improvements in training routines. Ian emphasizes the importance of consistency, incremental progress, and adapting training based on individual needs.
There's also a focus on the balance between work, life, and training, highlighting the challenges and strategies for maintaining a healthy routine. Carrie shares her experience of joining a local running group for accountability and the benefits of social running.
00:00 Welcome to Becoming Ultra
00:06 Carrie's Training Journey
00:56 Entrepreneurial Insights
02:45 Nutrition and Fueling Strategies
10:45 Dealing with Aches and Pains
23:09 Sleep Study Results
28:04 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
Learn more at Becoming Ultra
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Overcoming Winter Challenges: Deidra's Journey to Her First Ultra Marathon In the first call of 2025, Scott and Deidra discuss how she is faring in the initial weeks of 2025 of her training for her first ultra marathon.
Deidra shares her struggles with running in cold weather in Texas, her efforts to adapt to new training routines, and her recent achievements in strength training. They talk in detail about the importance of consistent strength training, proper running form, and strategies for dealing with cold weather runs. The conversation also covers the gradual ramp-up in training intensity and the mental fortitude required to stay motivated.
00:00 Introduction and Catching Up
00:17 Running in Cold Weather
04:19 Training Progress and Challenges
07:30 Strength Training and Its Importance
12:56 Running Form and Technique
20:39 Final Thoughts and Shoutouts
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Midpoint Training Updates and Overcoming Challenges in Ultra Marathon Prep
In this episode of Becoming Ultra Season 16, host Scott Jones catches up with Carrie and her coach Ian Sharman as Carrie prepares for her first ultra marathon. They discuss their progress halfway through the training, overcoming challenges such as sickness and a busy schedule, and the importance of recovery, including insights from Carrie's recent sleep study. Coach Ian provides valuable advice for maintaining consistency and managing health during the training process, while Carrie shares updates on her personal journey and professional life.
00:00 Introduction and Catching Up
00:30 Holiday Recap and Listener Feedback
02:04 Carrie's Health and Training Updates
03:07 Training Tips for Cold and Flu Season
04:57 Balancing Work and Training
09:26 Adjusting Training for Injuries
20:14 Sleep Study Insights
24:45 Conclusion and Next Steps
Sign up for the Powderhorn Mt Ultra and Vert Challenge
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A Deep Dive into the Hard Rock 100 with Race Director Dale In this episode, Scott chats with Dale, the race director of the Hard Rock 100 Endurance Run. They discuss Dale's personal journey, the origins and evolution of the Hard Rock 100, and his experiences as both an educator and a race director. Dale shares insights on the importance of community in the race, the logistics involved with organizing the event, and how the race has positively affected the local economy. They also delve into the challenges of maintaining the course, managing the lottery system, and advice for new participants. The episode wraps up with tips on race directing, emphasizing the significance of relationships and effective communication.
00:00 Catch-Up and Family Life
00:49 Professional Background and Retirement
02:28 Exploring Local Trails
02:53 Teaching Career and Passion for Leadership
04:33 Introduction to Hard Rock 100
04:56 Founding and Early Days of Hard Rock 100
07:00 Course Mapping and Permitting Challenges
07:53 Managing Hard Rock 100
16:21 Economic Impact and Community Relations
27:20 Lottery System and Community Building
31:31 The Significance of 146 Participants
33:19 Challenges of Managing the Lottery System
36:00 Technological Advancements in Ultra Running
36:46 Funding and Philanthropy Efforts
41:33 Memorable Moments and Finishers
46:34 Future of Hard Rock and Ultra Running
48:32 Advice for First-Time Ultra Race Directors
52:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Balancing Training and Holiday Cheer: Denise, Addie, and the Importance of Cross-Training In this episode of 'Becoming Ultra,' Denise and Addie discuss their recent training updates and balancing commitments during the holiday season.
They cover the importance of maintaining a variety of workouts, incorporating cross-training, and staying motivated. Denise shares her insights on the benefit of hiking versus running and how cross-training like mountain biking can complement her running routine.
They also delve into the pros and cons of different types of running shoes and the importance of finding the right fit according to personal needs. The conversation wraps up with holiday wishes and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset during the festive period.
00:00 Introduction and Catching Up
01:03 Holiday Cheer and Traditions
02:32 Gift Giving and Personal Touches
03:57 Running and Training Updates
09:55 Mountain Biking Adventures
13:02 Balancing Training and Life
23:09 Shoe Talk and Race Preparation
29:27 Conclusion and Holiday Wishes
The Becoming Ultra High Desert Trail Retreat!
The Powderhorn Mt. Ultra and Vertical challenge!
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Carrie brings some great questions about her training to the call today including: How to decide when running is too much when you aren't 100% well? Pre and post training Dexa scans. Is gait analysis worth it? How much of the training should be walking verse running?
Coach Ian Sharman gives some great insight as she navigates training for her first ultra.
About the hosts:
Ian Sharman
Ian has been racing around the world in all formats of event since 2005 and coaching since 2010, having run over 250 marathons and ultras on five continents (marathon PR 2:21 at age 43, half marathon PR 1:03 at age 44). He's won over 50 marathon+ races with at least one win every year for 19 (and counting) consecutive years. He also holds the fastest time in a trail 100-mile race by a Brit (12h44m), the record for the Grand Slam of Ultrarunning (69h49m), has won the USATF 100-mile trail championship twice and is a four-time Leadville Trail 100 Champion. Ultra Running Magazine has voted him as high as 2nd in its annual Ultra Runner of the Year rankings and 4th in Ultra Runner of the Decade.
Scott Jones, M.S.
Scott started Becoming Ultra to bridge the gap between athletes doing amazing things and the rest of us. There are so many runners that have experienced the joy of training for big things and getting them done and he wanted to bring that to the masses.
The mission is to bring entertaining content and education to the world of running and to continue to coach runners with big goals as he has for the last 20 years! You can listen to him on the Becoming Ultra podcast as a host and coach, find him interviewing other types of athletes and adventurers on Athlete On Fire, or putting on retreats and training camps all over the world.
He has his M.S. in exercise science and has coached athletes from most major professional sports teams, Olympians, 1000’s of young athletes, and hundreds of endurance athletes in his 20+ year career as a coach.
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Scott had a chance to sit down with Ben Tracy who is running across the country to highlight the importance on online safety for our youth. Some of the stories from the kids he gets to meet are pretty wild and it's a cause we can get behind with young kids being so vulnerable to the evils online.
Ben Tracyis a leading keynote speaker on digital citizenship, online safety, and responsiblesocial media use. Drawing from personal experience, Ben shares his compelling story aboutthe impact of teenage social media usage at schools and organizations nationwide.Ben is currently running across America to advocate for youth online safety. He is running amarathon each day for 120 consecutive days while speaking at schools and organizationsalong the way. His mission is simple: Keep Kids Safe.As the founder of Safe Social Network, Ben provides essential online safety resources forstudents, parents, and educators. He speaks to more than 100,000 people each year andvolunteers his time to help families report online predators and internet crimes to lawenforcement. Additionally, he awards scholarships annually to high school seniors whoactively promote positive social media usage, mental health awareness, and anti-bullying.
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Dreama Walton is an ultrarunner and parent with a great story of perseverance from life circumstances. She took chances to get out of situations that weren't ideal and has settled into a community that supports her and her goals! Scott and Dreama talk about life and running, training, living in the mountains, parenting, and more. Enjoy the show!
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Many ultra runners start training perfectly healthy with no past injury or issues to slow them down and some of us have to start while we are dealing with those issues. Deidra is managing a back injury she had fixed with surgery as she ramps up. It's almost always 2 steps forward and one step back with these types of issues so don't get discouraged if you are going through it. Thanks for listening.
Our first live race from Becoming Ultra is now taking registrations. Check it out here!
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As coach Ian Sharman guides Carrie throughout the holiday season ramping up for big goals in 2025 she asks some common but pertinnet questions about footwear and strength training. Scott announces Becoming Ultra will be putting on their first ultra event in Western Colorado in July of 2025! Enjoy the show and thanks for listening!
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Cale Pearson was a runner for Season 11 of the Becoming Ultra project. One thing that has been so cool are the side projects and trickle down of the project. We have had books written about the project, podcasts started, friendships, and so much more. On this episode Cale brought some of his peers from the Freight brokering industry on his channel to talk about an upcoming team ultra at Desert Rats (where Cale ran his first ultra). We hope you enjoy.
Cale's biz You Tube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@B2BTransportationServices
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On the show today we talk about Ian's amazing PR in the half marathon recently as he had to adjust from a marathon effort to the half. Carrie travels and gets some rest and come back ready to train as she focuses on body care early in the training cycle. Enjoy the show!
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Deidra comes back from the amazing mountains of Big Bend and we talk about her adventure as well as come up with some best practices dealing with plantar fasciitis, something that many runners deal with. We are early in the training cycle so taking time to get right early is the goal with slow ramp up in mileage, strength and mobility, and being present along the way. Enjoy!
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