When lining up the first round of recordings for The Wild Dog Pod, there was no question of who was going to be my inaugural guest. I wanted to start with someone who I knew embodied openness, authenticity, and relentless introspection. Someone who was passionate about sharing their own story in the hopes that it would help or inspire others.

That someone is  Mario Ciccarello. 

Mario and I met years ago at a training run for my first 50 mile race and his first 100 mile race. I was instantly struck by his outgoing and encouraging personality, as well as the enthusiasm he had for any and all challenges. He didn't just thrive in adversity; I had a sense that he hoped for it, eagerly prepared for it, and celebrated its arrival. 

This sense only deepened as I got to know his story; his journey through recovery, his discovery of obstacle course racing, and his start in ultrarunning - which was initiated by a friend who tried to discourage him from signing up for his first 50 mile race, arguing that he wasn't "ready for that level of pain." Mario promptly signed up in response, only ever having run 7 miles. 

Now with multiple ultramarathons under his belt, including two 100 milers, Mario sits down with me to share the lessons he learned in recovery and endurance sports, the beauty and growth he found in discomfort, and why the journey of 100 miles really does start with a single step.

If you'd like to keep up with Mario and all his adventures, you can find him on Instagram: @beyond_meat_head 

The Wild Dog Pod is brought to you by Wild Dog Athletics - individualized in-person and remote coaching for running, strength and conditioning, and weightlifting based in Wellington, FL. To get more information on our coaching services, schedule your free consult, subscribe to our mailing list, or just keep up with all things Wild Dog and Wild Dog Pod, you can find us at:

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