The Runabout

Erik K.

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2152431/open_sms] In this episode, I talk with Erik Koenig, a husband and father, Army veteran, and ultra runner, who shares his experiences, emphasizing the importance of mental strength and community support in overcoming challenges. Erik opens up and talks about his personal journey from addiction and trauma to sobriety and a passion for running, highlighting how it has transformed his life and helped him cope with post-traumatic stress disorder.  We also talk about one of my favorite subjects, the HURT 100. Erik is a two-time finisher of the race and shares his experiences. We also talk race directing, something Erik is doing for the first time with a race he is starting in Southern California.  *THIS EPISODE INCLUDES DISCUSSION OF SUICIDE. IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS STRUGGLING, PLEASE CONSIDER REACHING OUT FOR SUPPORT. YOU ARE NOT ALONE, AND HELP IS AVAILABLE. IF YOU NEED IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE, PLEASE CONTACT A CRISIS HELPLINE IN YOUR AREA. N THE U.S., YOU CAN CALL OR TEXT 988 TO REACH THE SUICIDE & CRISIS LIFELINE. PLEASE TAKE CARE WHILE LISTENING.

Morgan L.

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2152431/open_sms] Morgan finished his first 100 mile ultramarathon in Jan. of 2025, completing the demanding HURT 100. We talk his path to running ultras, his race experience at HURT, as well as what makes ultra running so special.

Nate D.

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2152431/open_sms] Nate is a school counselor, an officer in the Coast Guard Reserves, a veteran lifeguard, and single father who has an impressive running resume. He is the 2022 Ultra Signup Most Time Spent Racing winner as well as a 2x finisher of the Triple Crown of 200 mile races.  We talk about his journey into ultra marathons, balancing training, and the importance of mental health. I really enjoyed this one and I know you will too.

My Road to the 2025 HURT 100

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2152431/open_sms] After three lottery attempts, I was selected to run the 2025 HURT 100 that took place on 18-19 January. The race was an incredible experience! In this episode, I share my journey to get to the start line and eventually the finish line.

Francisco C.

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2152431/open_sms] Francisco is a photographer, artist, and muralist living in Northern California. A week prior to this conversation, Francisco attempted his first ultra trail race. We talk prep (he signed up two months before the race!), the challenge of being a minority in a predominantly white sport, as well as so much more. This was a good one!