Ultramarathons as a Metaphor for Life: Why We Run Toward the Pain

Ultramarathons as a Metaphor for Life: Why We Run Toward the Pain

Hey friends — welcome back to Heroes Journey. In this solo episode, I reflect on a recent 50K ultramarathon I ran outside of San Diego on the Pacific Crest Trail — and how these long, grueling races have become more than just physical challenges. For me, ultramarathons are a metaphor for life. In just 15–20 minutes, I unpack: * 🏃 The context: What happened during the race — the physical demands, the mental blocks, and what it felt like to show up less prepared than I wanted to. * 🔥 The why: Why I keep signing up for these kinds of challenges, even when they hurt. Even when they scare me. * 💭 The takeaways: Three lessons from this race that apply to anyone chasing something big — not just runners. This isn’t just about running. It’s about discomfort, discipline, and the kind of growth that only shows up when you choose to do the hard thing — especially when no one’s watching. 1. Don’t Half-Ass Anything If you're going to commit, commit all the way. Half-effort leads to half-growth — and that’s a regret that sticks with you longer than sore legs. 2. Pain Fades When You Face It Physical or emotional — the longer you avoid the pain, the longer it lingers. But when you move toward it with presence and intention, it starts to loosen its grip. 3. It’s Not About You The most meaningful part of this race? Convincing 3 friends to join me — their first ultra. Life’s journey is richer when you bring others with you. Whether you're into running or not, this episode is for anyone chasing something that scares them — launching a business, repairing a relationship, facing a big change, or stepping into the unknown. I’m not the fastest runner. I’m not the most prepared. But I’m showing up — and I hope this conversation helps you do the same, in your own way. “The treasure you seek lies in the cave you fear to enter.” — Joseph Campbell Whatever your “ultramarathon” is, run toward it. Be the example — for your younger self, your older self, and everyone who's watching. Thanks for being here. If this resonates, share the episode and tag me. Let’s keep pushing the edges together. 🙌 ✨ 3 Big Takeaways from the Trail:🎧 Why Listen:⛰️ Final Thought:

From Divorce to Reinvention: Modeling, Meaning & Modern Wisdom with Howard Snooks

In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode of The Hero’s Journey, we sit down with Howard R., a 76-year-old commercial actor, model, and former social worker from Boulder, Colorado, whose second act in life is nothing short of inspiring. We talk about: * ✨ Reinvention after divorce in his 60s * 🎭 How he got into modeling and acting after retirement * 🌄 Growing up and staying in Boulder, and his conflicted love for NYC * 📚 What advice he’d give to someone in their 20s about life, authenticity, and finding purpose * 🧠 The importance of self-awareness and learning to love who you are * 💪 How fitness, consistency, and a great relationship with a trainer has helped him stay in shape physically and mentally * 📸 The joy of sharing dad jokes, dance routines, and vulnerability with his growing Instagram audience * 🐻 Wild west family stories — including a bear attack, a mountain lion hunt, and Colorado cattle rustlers * 💔 His honest and ongoing struggle with estrangement from his daughter — and how even heroes face unresolved pain * 🧘‍♂️ A deep dive into nature vs. nurture and why he believes we are co-creators of our reality Howard’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, humor, and embracing change, no matter your age. Whether you're 26 or 76, this episode reminds us that it’s never too late to evolve, express, and begin again. “Can a hero have a child who’s estranged from them? That’s the question I wrestle with. Shouldn’t a hero be able to figure that out?” 📸 Instagram: [Insert his Instagram handle if public] 🎬 Commercial Work: [Optional link to agency or reel] Be sure to subscribe to The Hero’s Journey wherever you get your podcasts. If this episode resonated with you, please leave a review or share it with someone you care about 🧠 Key Quote:🔗 Connect with Howard:🎧 Listen & Subscribe:

From Rock Bottom to Redemption: Kallup McCoy’s Journey Through Addiction, Faith, and Purpose

In this powerful and deeply vulnerable episode, Kallup McCoy shares his unbelievable journey—from a lost teenager abusing narcotics to a man of faith leading others through recovery. Kallup walks us through his early struggles with identity, the allure of sports and partying, and how substance abuse took hold at a young age. His story includes losing a concrete business, falling deeper into addiction, and ultimately hitting rock bottom with a needle in his arm while holding his dying father's hand. But this isn't where the story ends. From a jail cell in 2017, Kallup cried out to God—and his life began to change. That moment of spiritual surrender turned into years of purpose-driven work. He’s now the co-founder of Res Hope Recovery & Consulting, a nonprofit that offers recovery housing and support to men re-entering life after addiction, jail, or rehab. We discuss: * Early struggles with direction and purpose * His introduction to drugs and descent into addiction * The moment his father spoke life into him before passing * The near-death experiences and failed suicide attempts * His powerful spiritual awakening in jail * Building Res Hope Recovery, a program focused on second chances * His passion for service, healing, and helping others rise * The difference between being born with purpose and being made through pain * How scars—both seen and unseen—can be a source of strength If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, loss, or finding their path—this conversation will inspire, challenge, and remind you: your story isn’t over. * Follow Kallup on Instagram: @kallupmccoy * Donate to or learn more about Res Hope Recovery & Consulting: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/23e5729d-60d5-4d70-9e7c-2c8bf3454b60 * Book Kallup for speaking, consulting, or community events: [Insert contact info or website] "Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls. The most massive characters are seared with scars." — Kallup McCoy 🔗 Links & Resources:💬 Quote from the Episode:

Showing Up for Love: Jayson Gaddis & the Dojo of Marriage

What does it take to build a thriving relationship in today’s world — one that’s honest, resilient, and built to last? In this conversation, Nick is joined by Jayson Gaddis, relationship coach, author, and founder of The Relationship School. Jayson shares his personal transformation from emotionally numb and disconnected to a deeply present husband, father, and teacher. Together, they unpack what’s missing in most modern partnerships — and how emotional fluency and self-awareness can change everything. This is a conversation about relational skill, not romantic fantasy. About rewiring the nervous system, not waiting for “the one.” And about how relationships — when approached consciously — can become one of life’s greatest teachers. In this episode, we cover: * Jayson’s early story: disconnection, addiction, and the long road back to self * Why most men struggle to identify their emotions — and how to change that * Avoidant vs. anxious attachment (and how those dynamics actually play out) * Why “being a fixer” kills intimacy — and what to do insteadHow secure couples learn to repair (and why it's never about being perfect) * The four core needs in a relationship: to feel safe, seen, soothed, and supported * How to raise emotionally intelligent kids — without shutting down or over-permissiveness * Whether marriage is for everyone — and why it’s not for the faint of heart * The myth of soulmates and the real magic of growth-based love Whether you're doing the work alone, in partnership, or somewhere in between — this episode will challenge, ground, and inspire you. “Don’t get married unless you’re ready to train.” Follow along and stay connected: 📱 Instagram: @nickshawperformance 🌐 Learn more about Jayson: www.relationshipschool.com 👉 Be sure to follow the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs it. Your journey matters — and you’re not alone on the path.

From Burnout to Ironman: Sabine's Journey of Rediscovery and Resilience

What does it take to go from losing confidence and feeling stuck to finishing Ironman races and rediscovering your true self?In this episode of The Hero’s Journey Podcast, Sabine shares his powerful transformation—from a period of burnout and self-doubt in his mid-20s to building a life of purpose, discipline, and adventure. Starting with a simple “bike to work” initiative, he eventually embraced endurance sports, ran ultramarathons, and tackled full Ironmans—all while redefining success and reconnecting with the courageous, action-driven kid he always was.Sabine talks candidly about:The emotional toll of feeling lost and how he reset his directionWhy trying new things without overthinking is key to growthThe value of letting go of rigid goals in favor of meaningful experiencesHow fitness, mindset, and identity are deeply connectedThis episode is for anyone standing at the edge of change—wondering if they can do something hard. Sabine’s story is proof that you don’t need to be extraordinary to start. You just need to begin.