While They're Sleeping

For Episode 13, we welcome Hamilton Evans to the pod to share the story of his finish at the legendary Leadville 100. It’s our first time recapping a 100-mile race - and we quickly discover just how different the conversation is when 100 miles is the finish line.Instead of hallucinations, extreme sleep deprivation, and increasingly bizarre aid-station meals, Hamilton takes us inside a race that was truly a race. We talk strategy, pacing, preparation, and what it takes to execute a plan over 100 miles while competing at altitude on one of the most iconic courses in ultrarunning.Hamilton breaks down the unique dynamics of Leadville’s out-and-back course, the physical and mental challenges of racing high in the Colorado mountains, and the treachery of Hope Pass. He also shares the energy he drew from other runners and spectators along the course and how having a dedicated crew by his side helped him keep moving toward the finish.It’s a fitting recap of a legendary race - and a fascinating look at a different side of ultrarunning, where endurance and survival meet strategy, execution, and the desire to truly race 100 miles.

We're joined by special guest Lyman Hawbaker III to relive his unforgettable journey through the Tahoe 200 - his first race beyond the 100-mile distance.Lyman shares how injuries both before and during the race shaped his experience, forcing him to adapt and dig deeper than ever before. Along the way, he takes us through the breathtaking scenery of the Tahoe backcountry, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and the mental battle of continuing even after he was convinced his race was over.We also hear the incredible story of sleepwalking, getting lost on the trail, and how the unwavering support of his crew and race volunteers ultimately helped carry him to the finish line.For years, Lyman found himself asking the same question that so many ultrarunners eventually do: What happens after 100 miles? In this episode, he shares the answer - not just what happens on the trail, but what he discovered about himself by pushing into completely unknown territory. It's a powerful conversation about resilience, self-discovery, and what lies beyond the limits we think we have.Follow Lyman on StravaFollow Chadd on StravaFollow Nick on Strava

Chadd returns to the Arizona Monster 300 for the second year in a row, and this time, the race hits differently. In this episode, we unpack a rollercoaster performance that started with an unforgiving heat wave, pushing Chadd to his limits and bringing him dangerously close to aid station cutoffs for the first time in his ultrarunning career.But instead of breaking, he adapts. We talk through how he managed the early race carnage, regrouped, and ultimately grew stronger as the miles piled on. Along the way, he shares some unconventional nutrition strategies - including a legendary stop at In-N-Out in Tucson - and how a bit more sleep helped him avoid the hallucinations that have plagued past races.We also zoom out for a deeper conversation on balance: what it takes to train for and complete races of this magnitude while maintaining a sustainable life. This one is about resilience, evolution, and learning how to go further - not just in distance, but in mindset.

Chadd’s back at Moab 240 for the second year in a row, but this time, with a twist. For the first time in his 200+ mile ultramarathon career, Chadd tackled a race with the support of a dedicated crew and pacers, and their presence changed everything. In this episode, we break down how that new dynamic shaped the race, including live audio recorded by his crew throughout the event.But even with added support, Moab didn’t make it easy. Chadd recounts the brutal conditions: relentless rain, thick mud, freezing temps, and the mental toll of sleep deprivation that led to some wild hallucinations and heated sleep debates. This is a raw, unfiltered look at what it means to grind through one of the toughest ultramarathons out there.

We’ve got our first-ever guest on the pod — and it’s a good one. Robert Ivan joins us fresh off his finish at this year’s Cocodona 250 to share his incredible race experience.This year’s race threw everything at the runners: relentless mud, unpredictable weather, and conditions that tested even the most experienced athletes. Robert walks us through how he navigated it all, highlighting moments of creative problem solving, unexpected challenges, and the sheer mental grit it took to keep moving forward.It’s a raw and inspiring conversation about perseverance, resourcefulness, and what it means to commit to finishing no matter what.Follow Robert on Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/42725885

Chadd is back — and he did it. In this episode, we break down his incredible 120-hour journey conquering the Arizona Monster 300. Chadd walks us through every section of the race, with details on the course, aid station, and his unconventional nutrition choices. It's a full, unfiltered look at what it takes to finish a 300-mile ultramarathon.He opens up about the mental battles he faced, including some of the most intense and prolonged hallucinations he's ever experienced, and the relentless fight to stay focused and clear-headed. We also explore what drives him to chase bigger and harder challenges.

In this pre-race episode, we sit down to talk all things Arizona Monster 300 — a brand new, beastly 300-mile ultra Chadd is about to take on. We dive into his training prep, break down the course, and highlight what makes this race unlike any other.From daily routines and go-to gear to favorite nutrition choices and the mindset it takes to tackle something this big, Chadd shares it all. We also unpack the biggest misconception about ultrarunning and have some fun dreaming up ideal sponsor partnerships. Whether you're an ultra veteran or just ultra curious, this episode sets the stage for an epic adventure.The race begins on April 4 - follow along here: https://trackleaders.com/monster25Follow Chadd on Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/35035652Follow Nick on Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/46643920

In this episode, we dive into Chadd's remarkable experience at the Moab 240 ultramarathon, where he finished 21st overall with a time of 93 hours. Chadd opens up about the extreme highs and lows of this grueling race, reflecting on the camaraderie he found along the course, unconventional nutrition strategies, and the tough moments that tested his resolve. His pride in the outcome shines through, showcasing a true feat of endurance, determination, and self-reliance.

In this episode, join us as we dive deep into Chadd's incredible journey through the Cocodona 250, which he completed for the second time, clocking in at an impressive 108 hours. Chadd shares a thorough race recap, offering an unfiltered look at the highs and lows of his ultramarathon adventure. Hear about the moments that went smoothly, the intense struggles, and the critical challenges he faced along the way. From battling dehydration and getting lost to experiencing wild hallucinations and receiving invaluable support from fellow runners, Chadd's story is nothing short of extraordinary. He candidly discusses the mistakes he made and the lessons learned, all culminating in the overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment he felt as he crossed the finish line. This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unyielding spirit of an ultrarunner. Follow us on Strava! Nick: https://www.strava.com/athletes/46643920 Chadd: https://www.strava.com/athletes/35035652

Nick and Chadd are back for the 2024 race season! In a change of pace, the team starts with a recap of Nick's experience leading up to and completing the Brooklyn Half Marathon. Then, it's back to ultramarathons as Chadd prepares for the Cocodona 250. Will he beat his time of 105:09:38 from last year? Follow along with him this week on the Cocodona live tracker: https://cocodona.com/live/ Follow us on Strava! Nick: https://www.strava.com/athletes/46643920 Chadd: https://www.strava.com/athletes/35035652