Claim OwnershipBlueprint to Ultra
Subscribed: 8Played: 247
Subscribe
© Blueprint to Ultra
Description
Whether you are dabbling with the idea of running your first ultra or wanting to figure out how you can push farther than you ever have before, we are here to help you put that plan together. Join ultra runners, Steve and Jeff, as we interview people that are just like you, all with the goal of helping you answer the question, "what does it take?"
28 Episodes
Reverse
In this episode of the Blueprint Ultra Podcast, we sit down with Caleb Baity to talk about his journey into ultra running and what it took to be one of only 20 finishers of the Barkley Fall Classic this year. We also look to his next race, the Beast of the East 100, which he DNFed after being in first place through 75 miles back in 2023 and his plans to redeem himself this year. Caleb also shares his unique nutrition approach to long runs and offers a great hack on how to save money on some of expensive hydration brands out there. Sot take a few minutes, and join as we learn from Caleb.Connect with Caleb on Instagram @caleb_baity_ or on StravaConnect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultra
On this episode of the podcast, we talk to Tonya Olson who is the co-author of the book Fixing Your Feet. We talk how to prepare your feet before a race, caring for your feet during a race, and also some post race tips. The show is packed with content and we think that knowing how to take care of your feet is one of those important tools in the toolbox as you are putting together your own blueprint for running ultras.Connect with Tonya on IG: @tonyakolsondptWebsite: https://www.drtonyafootcare.com/Also, Tonya shared some post podcast video links for you that you can check out here.Here's my foot strengthening video: https://vimeo.com/993793434And, one to bulletproof your plantar fascia, ankle, calves.My heel raise protocolhttps://vimeo.com/999141770From Tonya: "The heel raises are best done on a slant board, or off a 2x4, or something that feels like a good stretch when your heel is at the bottom. It's essential that you're doing these so your heel lands on a solid surface, not off a step into the great abyss." Connect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultra
If we told you that the guest on this episode has run the Scout Mountain 100 and then the Bighorn 100 two weeks later. And, at the time of this recording was preparing to run the Wasatch 100, just two months after Bighorn, AND three weeks after Wasatch will be running the Bear 100, what would you say? If you are like us, we are just blown away by that kind of endurance. How do you recover? How do you train for this? And good grief, just how? But, what if we also told you that this guest is only 18? Yeah, we felt that way too. Want to learn more from even those that are younger than you, then this is an inspiring episode of what is possible.Connect with Adam on IG: @adamwolf07And check him out on YouTube: @thewolfthatrunsConnect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultra
On this episode of the podcast, Liz Clarke joins us fresh off her 2nd place finish at the Angeles Crest 100. Liz shares her insights on trianing, overcoming challenges and the role of her faith and sobriety have played in her ultra running journey. Learn how to prepare for high-altitude races, manage nutrition and how she stays resilient even in her darkest moments. Whether you're a seasoned ultra-runner or a beginner looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable tips and personal stories that will help you put together your own blueprint for running ultras. Connect with Liz on IG: @lizotfConnect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultraIf you have read this far, do us a favor and hit that subscribe button. Leave us a rating and comment. We'd love to hear from you.
Starting with his first ultra, the Marathon des Sables at the age of 60, Bob Becker has become a running legend as the oldest runner to finish the Badwater 135. With stories of overcoming challenges like battling extreme heat in Death Valley and dealing with a severe forward lean due to a back issue, Bob’s experiences serve as a treasure trove of inspiration. He discusses his strategies for run/walk, the significance of core strength, the impact of a good crew, and the supportive ultra running community. If that isn't enough, Bob is also the Race Director for the Keys 100 and the Daytona 100. We spend a few minutes highlighting the unique aspects of each event. If you have ever thought that you couldn't run an ultra or that your age was a factor preventing you from accomplishing your goals, then this episode is for you. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to learn from a seasoned ultra runner and gain motivation to pursue their ultra running goals.Connect with Bob: https://www.instagram.com/bobruns150Daytona 100https://www.instagram.com/daytona100ultrarace/website: https://daytona100ultra.com/Keys 100https://www.instagram.com/keys100ultra/website: https://keys100.com/Connect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultraIf you have read this far, do us a favor and hit that subscribe button. Leave us a rating and comment. We'd love to hear from you.
Joining Steve and Jeff on the show this week is Anne Tisdell, a CTS Ultra running coach with an impressive resume including multiple 100+ mile races. This episode touches on a variety of topics as Anne brings her experiences at Ouray 100, Moab 240, Arizona 300 and other races along with her knowledge as a running coach. We discuss races at altitude and what you can do if you have a race above 5000 feet on your calendar, as well as, the importance of learning how to train / run by RPE. Whether you are new to ultra running or have a list of races on your ultrasignup, this episode will provide you with some insights to help you as you prepare for your next ultra.Connect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultraIf you have read this far, do us a favor and hit that subscribe button. Leave us a rating and comment. We'd love to hear from you.
In this episode, Steve and Jeff swap their roles to be on the receiving end of the questions, with Brooklyn taking the helm as host. Steve and Jeff open up about their journeys into ultra running, discussing personal challenges and achievements that have defined their paths. From the mental strategies needed to tackle long distances to the logistics of race planning, their stories serve as both motivation and guidance. And perhaps even a little bit of what not to do! Grab a coffee or beverage of your choice and enjoy the episode.Connect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultraIf you have read this far, do us a favor and hit that subscribe button. Leave us a rating and comment. We'd love to hear from you.
Katti Jackson has only been running ultras since September 2022. In her debut 100 miler, she ran, and won the Grindstone 100 in 2024 and gained automatic entry into UTMB. Join us as we talk through her early days, her experiences at Grindstone, the Georgia Death Race, and how she is preparing for UTMB this August. We believe that she won't be under the radar much longer. Connect with Katti on IG: Katti JacksonConnect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultraIf you have read this far, do us a favor and hit that subscribe button. Leave us a rating and comment. We'd love to hear from you.
Kelly Thrush shares his incredible journey from battling alcohol addiction and undergoing a life-saving liver transplant to completing the Arizona 300. Kelly's story proves to us that we all have more in us than we think we do. We can all accomplish amazing things, despite the odds being stacked against us. Whether you're a runner or not, Kelly's story will inspire you to believe in the impossible.Connect with Kelly on IG: Kelly Thrush Interested in more information about Gratitude and Grace, the foundation that Kelly talks about in the episode to helping survivors of organ failure and/or addiction recovery? Check out the website: Gratitude and Grace.Connect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultraIf you have read this far, do us a favor and hit that subscribe button. Leave us a rating and comment. We'd love to hear from you.
In this episode, Steve and Jeff catch up with Troy Rasmussen. Troy shares his early days of disliking running to tackling a few challenging ultras including his first experience at a 50k where he met Jeff and then most recently to his race at Massanutten 100. The Massanutten 100 has over 18,500 feet of elevation and Troy got everything he wanted out of this race and more. Listen to what it takes to finish a race when you get through the first half in 12 hours and then need an additional 22 hours to finish the second half as the wheels come off. Could you do it? Here what it takes to keep moving when the plan gets thrown out the window. You will hear some tips on training, hydration, the pros and cons of an ice bandana and even a discussion of if and when you should consider taking a trail nap in a 100 miler. Whether you're a seasoned ultra runner or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights and motivational stories to help you piece together your own blueprint for ultra running success.Connect with Troy on IG: Troy Rasmussen Connect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultraIf you have read this far, do us a solid and hit that subscribe button. Leave us a rating and comment. We'd love to hear from you.
On today's show, we dig into the world of races that are 200+ miles, with our guest who like many of us, works a full time job, has a family, and has outside of running that he enjoys spending time doing. He has run a ton of ultras and started with 50ks for a couple of years before finding the races that are longer than 200 miles. Dave Stinchfield has completed the Bigfoot 200 - 3 times, the Moab 240 2x, the Tahoe 200 2x, the Cocodona 250 2x and just recently, the Arizona 300. Discover how Dave balances his career and family while training for these races. We discuss training strategies, mental fortitude, the unexpected moments and ultra and will have you believing that you too can complete an ultra of any distance. Want to keep up with Dave? Connect with him on IG or check out his Vimeo where you can see some videos of his races.Connect with Dave on IG: drstinchDave on Vimeo: Race videos with DaveConnect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultraIf you have read this far, do us a solid and hit that subscribe button. Leave us a rating and comment. We'd love to hear from you.
On this episode of Blueprint to Ultra, Steve and Jeff hang out with Katie Jenkins who shares her journey from battling an eating disorder and alcoholism to finding solace and strength in ultra running. From starting out with a view that cardio is unhealthy due to having struggled with an eating disorder, Katie eventually falls in love with running and once getting into the sport of ultra running, hasn't looked back. Completing over 20 ultras and her first 100 in a year, Katie has had a schedule of multiple races in a month and shares how you completed a 74 mile race, a 50k and then her first 100, over a 3 week period in March. So grab a cup of coffee, or water for you non coffee drinkers, and listen/watch as we discover the power of persistence, the significance of community, and how running can lead to personal transformation. Connect with Katie on IG: kljenkins27 Connect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultraIf you have read this far, do us a solid and hit that subscribe button. Leave us a rating and comment. We'd love to hear from you.
Todd was like many of us. A road runner with dreams to run a race like the Boston Marathon. He eventually reached that goal, but along the way he fell in love with ultra running starting with a trip out to the Grand Canyon. Since then, Todd has been in the ultra running world and is now about to take on the Sedona 125, which is part of the Cocodona 250 race that is coming up in just a few days. We talk about all of that plus some thoughts on training, mindset, heat acclimation, rucking and visualization. It is the kitchen sink of topics. Join us and root on Todd for the Sedona 125.Connect with him on IG: Todd Pollock Connect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultra
On this episode we had the opportunity to talk to the 2024 winner of Cocodona 250. We chatted about last year's race and of course her goals for this year when she aims to defend her title in just a few weeks against a stacked field. Stick around to the end for a relatable point on how the three of us recover immediately after a race. We think you may be the same. Leave us a comment on how you recover immediately after a race, we'd love to hear.Connect with Rachel on IG: @rachel__entrekin Connect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultra
On this week's episode Jeff and Steve interview ultra runner John Ruemker who shares his journey in ultra running. John is a student of the sport and has learned the discipline of practicing mindfulness and fine tuning his race nutrition for the Umstead 100. We dig into the power of mindset in ultra running, offering practical tips on mindfulness, mantras, and process-focused goals. How to stay fully present and thrive in even the lowest of lows. This episode is packed with valuable takeaways for anyone looking to add more pieces to the puzzle of their ultra blueprint. Connect with John on IG: @jrummy_runs Connect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultra
In this episode, we dive into the inspirational journey of Matt Monroe, the youngest finisher of the Sulphur Springs 100 mile race at 19, and a Bigfoot 200 finisher at 20. From discovering running during the pandemic to taking on ultra races, Matt shares the highs, lows, and invaluable lessons he learned along the way. We talk about his training, the importance of a strong support system and the will power it takes to get up and keep moving. No matter where you are in your ultra running journey, Matt's story will inspire you to push your limits and believe in your strength. Enjoy the show!If you have read this far down, go ahead and hit that subscribe button and stay up to date on future episodes.Connect with Matt on IG: @mattmunro03 Connect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultra
In this episode of the 'Blueprint to Ultra' podcast, hosts Steve Epifano and Jeff Winchester interview Cody Bradley, an ultra runner and mental health advocate. Cody shares his experiences completing various ultra marathons, including the Harding Hustle 50K and a 24-hour race. He opens up about his journey with mental illness, the role running has played in his recovery, and the inspiration behind his Instagram handle 'runningwithpurpose__314', dedicated to his brother who struggled with mental illness. Cody also dives into his self-planned adventure races, such as his ambitious PCT hike from Mexico to Big Bear. Alongside his personal stories, there's valuable advice on topics like blister prevention and mental health support. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, community, and the pure joy of ultra running.Make sure to hit that subscribe button, like and leave us a comment. We'd love to hear from you.Connect to Cody on IG: @runningwithpurpose__314More information about mental health options referred to in the show? Check out Bigger than the Trail. Connect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultra
In this episode of the Blueprint to Ultra Podcast, we sit down with ultra runner Jill Wilkins. Jill shares her experiences, from the challenges of celiac disease and eating disorders in her youth to facing and overcoming a devastating injury at the Wasatch 100 in 2021. After recovering from that injury, Jill returned for the Wasatch 100 in 2024 for her redemption and placed 11th female. Jill shares practical advice on various aspects of ultra running, including nutrition, dealing with unexpected challenges like injuries and hemorrhoids, and the mental fortitude required to succeed. If you are still reading, you have time to click that subscribe button, hit like and leave us a rating or comment. We'd love to have you on the journey with us.Connect with Jill on IG: @jill.rwilkinsConnect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultra
When Angus paced his friend back in 2022 at Western States 100, he knew that one day he wanted to complete a 100 mile race. In 2024, he set out to do just that. Angus shares his journey of conquering his first 100 mile race, Despite facing significant physical and mental challenges, including dealing with ulcerative colitis and emergency surgeries, Angus's story is an inspiring testament to resilience and determination.
Learn how Angus overcame two DNFs and successfully completed the Dinosaur Valley Endurance Run. From the importance of having fun in training, to respecting the distance, and leaning on community support – this episode is packed with valuable insights for runners at any level. Tune in to discover Angus's incredible journey and the lessons he learned along the way.
Make sure to subscribe, follow, leave a rating and comment. We'd love to hear from you.
You can connect with Angus on IG: Angus Robertson
Connect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultra
On this episode of Blueprint to Ultra we catch up with Sierra Degroff. Sierra has been running since the 7th grade, as a track runner, joined the cross country team in high school, and go into ultra running post college.
One thing to know about Sierra. She is fast. She has a sub 1:30 1/2 marathon PR, and a sub 3:00 hour marathon PR. Her fastest 100 miler was a whopping 15:59, and was the USATF 100 mile and 24 hour champion in 2023. Most recently she won the Mount to Coast 100K race at Across the years with a time of 9:06:19.
Sierra is part of the Aravaipa Racing Team and is sponsored by Mount to Coast https://mounttocoast.com/
In the show we discuss topics such as training, nutrition, gear, and mindset. But, Sierra has goals. Big goals for 2025 where she is tackling the 2025 USATF 100 Mile Track and Field Championships, Western States, and Badwater 135. She plans to win 2 out of 3 and finish in the top 10 of Western States. That's the goal. That's the shot.
You can connect with Sierra on IG: Sierra Degroff
Connect with us on IG: @blueprint_to_ultra
Comments
Download from Google Play
Download from App Store
United States