In this episode, Scott talks with ultrarunner and coach, Liza Howard about how endurance athletes can train, race, and stay safe in hot conditions. Liza shares practical strategies for heat acclimation, managing effort when temperatures rise, fueling when your body doesn't want to cooperate, and recognizing the warning signs of heat exhaustion. She also talks about aging as an endurance athlete, navigating perimenopause, and adjusting training in a way that supports long-term performance instead of fighting against the body. Whether you're training through summer, preparing for a hot race, or learning how to adapt as your body changes, this conversation is packed with useful, real-world advice. In this episode, we talk about: How heat impacts running performance and recovery Why fitness matters, but effort still has to change in hot conditions Heat acclimation strategies runners can use in training How to practice cooling strategies before race day Fueling and hydration challenges during hot races What heat exhaustion can feel like and how to respond Clothing, gear, and race-day planning for extreme heat How aging, hormones, and recovery needs can change training Building confidence when your body doesn't respond the way it used to Liza's work with Band of Runners and upcoming camp opportunities Key takeaways: The fitter you are, the better prepared you may be for heat, but you still need to slow down and manage effort. Heat strategies should be practiced during training, not saved for race day. Cooling, hydration, pacing, and fueling all work together. There is no single magic fix. Training through hot weather requires patience, flexibility, and respect for what your body is handling. Aging does not mean you are done improving, but it may require smarter recovery and more intentional training choices. Notable quotes: "The fitter you are, the better you'll handle the heat." "Run slower, keep effort down in the heat." "Practice heat strategies during training, not just race day." Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and weather talk 01:02 Liza's running journey and health challenges 03:47 Aging and running: overcoming age-related doubts 06:39 Navigating perimenopause as an athlete 09:21 Training adjustments and recovery strategies 12:05 Managing heat during training and racing 19:22 Fueling strategies in hot conditions 21:45 Fueling strategies for hot races 23:29 Understanding heat exhaustion 26:23 Navigating challenges during races 29:58 Recap of heat management techniques 31:12 Band of Runners initiative 33:43 Exploring new locations for training 36:35 Closing thoughts and future plans Resources mentioned: Band of Runners: https://www.bandofrunners.org/ners.org Connect with Liza: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lizahoward1/  

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Kevin Stone for a conversation about injury, recovery, and what runners can do to stay active for the long haul. Whether you are coming back from an injury, trying to avoid one, or learning how to listen to your body with more confidence, this conversation offers helpful insight into the physical and mental side of returning to movement. Dr. Stone shares perspective on what runners should understand about healing, strength, patience, and making smart decisions when something does not feel right. We also talk about the importance of staying strong as we age, how runners can think about longevity, and why the goal is not just getting back to one race but continuing to move well for years to come. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Kevin Stone 02:00 Why injury recovery matters for runners 05:00 Understanding pain, discomfort, and warning signs 08:00 Common mistakes runners make when injured 12:00 Returning to running after time off 16:00 The role of strength training in injury prevention 20:00 How aging athletes can stay strong and resilient 24:00 Building patience during the comeback process 28:00 Thinking long-term instead of rushing back 32:00 Advice for runners who want to keep moving for life Resources Mentioned: Complimentary Virtual Consultation with Dr. Stone: https://www.stoneclinic.com/consult Play Forever: How to Recover from Injury and Thrive: https://www.amazon.com/Play-Forever-Recover-Injury-Thrive/dp/1544526768 Connect with Dr. Stone / The Stone Clinic: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stoneclinic/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8sjtmveZXQibCLMae6GkuA

In this episode, we're talking all things ultra race crewing with Sandra Bullock Smith, author of Crewing for an Ultra Run: Start to Finish. Crewing can make a huge difference in a runner's race experience, but it is so much more than showing up with snacks and a chair. Sandra shares what crew members need to know before race day, how to build trust with your runner, what mistakes to avoid, and how to stay flexible when things inevitably do not go according to plan. Whether you are crewing for the first time, supporting a runner at their next ultra, or trying to better understand what your crew may experience during a race, this conversation is full of practical advice, perspective, and plenty of real-life ultrarunning wisdom. In This Episode, We Talk About: What crewing really means in ultra running How to define the role of a crew before race day Where first-time crew members should start Common crewing mistakes and how to avoid them Essential gear and supplies for crew members How to support a runner when things get hard Why communication and expectations matter How crew members can manage fatigue and sleep deprivation The importance of planning while staying flexible Why crewing can sometimes feel harder than running Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Crewing in Ultra Running 02:10 Sandra's Journey into Crewing 03:50 Understanding the Role of a Crew 06:07 Building a Strong Crew-Racer Relationship 08:43 Finding the Right Crew Members 11:13 Common Mistakes in Crewing 15:45 Planning and Preparing for the Race 17:13 Essential Crew Kit Items 20:23 Innovative Solutions for Ultra Running Challenges 21:48 Mental Strategies for Overcoming Race Frustrations 23:34 Crew Essentials for First-Time Ultra Races 27:22 Navigating Sleep Deprivation as a Crew Member 28:55 Understanding the Crew's Perspective 30:19 The Importance of Planning and Flexibility 30:53 The Journey of Writing a Book on Crewing 33:09 Humorous Moments in Crewing 37:49 Inspiration from Aging Runners 39:01 The Value of Strength Training for Runners Resources Mentioned: Crewing for an Ultra Run: Start to Finish  

In this episode, Dr. Tonya Olson shares expert insights on foot care for ultra runners, covering common issues, prevention strategies, and effective products to keep your feet healthy during long-distance races. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Foot Care and Ultra Running 02:37 The Journey into Ultra Running 05:31 Understanding Foot Care Basics 08:23 Common Foot Issues for Runners 11:19 Race Day Preparation and Strategies 14:00 Building a Foot Care Kit for Runners 16:38 Personal Experiences and Lessons Learned 21:34 Understanding Footwear and Performance 24:15 Common Foot Issues in Runners 28:52 The Truth About Black Toenails 34:34 Outdated Foot Care Practices 40:46 Shoe Brands and Foot Care Issues 43:02 Choosing the Right Socks for Running Resources Dr. Tonya Footcare Dr. Olson's YouTube Channel Dr. Tonya Olson's Instagram Fixing Your Feet (Amazon)

Join us as we explore the scenic West Elk Wilderness with race director Ben Graves. Discover the race details, the stunning landscape of Paonia, Colorado, and how this event supports local community programs and outdoor education. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ben Graves and Paonia 02:53 Ben's Journey: From Teacher to Race Director 09:39 The West Elk Challenge: A Community Fundraiser 14:16 Exploring Mount Lamborn and the West Elk Wilderness 16:47 The Allure of Fall in Colorado's High Country 18:15 Exploring the West Elks and Community Engagement 19:44 Marathon Insights: Elevation and Terrain 22:18 Race Day Experiences and Weather Challenges 25:09 Race Registration and Community Involvement 28:31 Post-Race Dining and Local Cuisine 30:47 Personal Running Adventures and Reflections Resources West Elk Challenge Race Website  Ben Graves on Instagram  Colorado Parks and Wildlife   

Ian Sharman discusses his journey of writing 'The Art of Ultra Running,' sharing insights on pacing, mental strategies, and lessons from elite runners like Zach Bitter and Courtney Dauwalter. Learn practical tips for runners of all levels to improve performance and enjoy the sport. The book is out everywhere for preorder now!  

Scott does a short solo episode today to talk about a few of the things going on on the western slope of Colorado!  Have a great day!

In this conversation Scott speaks with Lauren Callahan, a nutrition coach and doctoral student, as she shares her insights on nutrition, gut health, and endurance sports. She discusses her journey into ultra running, the importance of gut health in athletic performance, and the concept of integrative wellness. Lauren also explores the emerging field of peptides, their benefits for recovery and performance, and emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to nutrition and health. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nutrition and Endurance Sports 07:30 Lauren's Journey into Ultra Running 13:55 Nutritional Changes and Gut Health 18:27 Understanding Integrative Wellness 19:48 Exploring Peptides and Their Benefits 29:18 Balancing Nutrition and Performance   Come run with us in Colorado: Trail Camp

Summary On this episode Scott and Ian Sharman discuss the evolving landscape of ultra running, coaching, and the impact of social media on sponsorships.  He reflects on the challenges of balancing social media presence with genuine engagement. They also touches on the journey of coaching clients, particularly Hans, who has transformed his life through running, highlighting the significance of setting realistic goals and the gradual process of building endurance. Ian talks about his upcoming book, "The Art of Ultra Running," which aims to provide practical advice for runners at all levels.  We hope you enjoy.  Also, come run with us in Colorado!    Chapters 00:00 Welcome Back to Becoming Ultra 01:08 The Evolution of Coaching and Sponsorships 04:23 Coaching Success Stories: Hans's Journey 08:37 Approaches to Training: Methodical vs. Jumping In 12:15 The Importance of Pacing and Community 18:39 Introducing 'The Art of Ultra-Running' 25:37 The Power of Storytelling in Running 26:23 Navigating Social Media in the Running Community 28:48 The Saturation of Race Films 30:34 Exploring New Hobbies and Interests 32:25 Experiences Beyond Running 35:37 Environmental Challenges in the Running World 36:54 Looking Ahead: Future Projects and Aspirations  

In this episode Scott chats with Chris Avery, a coach and ultra runner, about his journey from hating running to embracing ultra marathons. They discuss Chris's ambitious plan to run the perimeter of America, setting a world record for consecutive ultra marathons, and the challenges and logistics involved. Chris shares insights on personal growth, the importance of unique challenges, and the impact of running on his life and coaching career.