What happens when you stop waiting for permission and start chasing wild, audacious goals? That's exactly what we unpack in this powerhouse episode with Mike Wardian—elite endurance athlete, record-setting runner, and all-around inspiration. From running across the United States to setting a fastest known time (FKT) on the Appalachian Trail for his age group, Mike shares the mindset behind tackling the unimaginable.

But this conversation goes beyond races and records. Mike opens up about what fuels his drive, how he builds resilience through repetition, and how he balances his career, family, and love for adventure. Whether you're prepping for your first 10K or dreaming of rowing solo across the Atlantic (yep, that's on his calendar too), there's something here for everyone chasing big goals.

🔥 What You'll Learn

• How Mike plans his insane endurance calendar using a Post-it Note system

• The real story behind his Appalachian Trail record attempt — injuries, storms, and mental toughness

• Why he's trading trails for water in 2027: rowing across the Atlantic solo

• How to push through when motivation runs dry — the power of micro-goals

• Mike's approach to family, business, and adventure life balance

• What he's learned about humanity and resilience from running thousands of miles

🏆 Featured Moments

[1:04 ] – Mike's "goal list" strategy for setting and sticking to ambitious challenges
[4:58 ] – What is the Taco Bell 50K and the Full Ham Triathlon? (Hint: They're tougher than they sound)
[6:55 ] – Why Mike's next adventure is rowing solo across the Atlantic Ocean
[9:02 ] – The difference between saying yes to challenges and actively seeking them out
[15:45 ] – Why the Appalachian Trail holds a special place in Mike's heart
[23:10 ] – Trail injuries, vegan nutrition, and how Mike fueled himself with 10,000 calories a day
[32:45 ] – How Mike balances a full-time career and family life while pursuing ultra-endurance feats
[39:01 ] – The truth about running across America—traffic, kindness, loneliness, and everything in between
[45:40 ] – Why 100 burpees a day became a key part of Mike's training routine

🧠 Listener Takeaways

• Your biggest goals are within reach if you break them into daily reps

• You don't need to quit your job to live an adventurous life

• Embrace the beginner's mindset — it's where the magic starts

• There's no substitute for consistency and curiosity

• "Run toward the thing you're afraid of — it's probably where the growth is."

📌 Links & Resources

• Follow Mike Wardian on Instagram: @mikewardian

• Learn more about Mike's gear and sponsors: Teva, Bakline

• Check out upcoming grassroots races like the Taco Bell 50K via Mike's socials

👏 Connect with Us

Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for full episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and more conversations just like this. You can find us on YouTube by searching On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self — and don't forget to hit the bell so you never miss a new drop.

If this episode inspired you, please follow, rate, and review the podcast on your favorite platform. It helps us grow and reach more everyday adventurers like you. And hey—share it with a friend who's chasing their own wild goals.