Becki Jones: Fear of Failure Is A Powerful Motivator

In this episode of The Adventure Jogger, host Steven Kornhaus talks with veteran and ultra runner Zack Lever about his experience in the Old Glory Relay—an event where veterans carry the American flag across the country. Zach shares insights into the team selection process, training, and the challenges of leading a crew through unpredictable conditions. The conversation highlights military camaraderie, the emotional impact of the relay, and the power of community support, with a glimpse into the upcoming documentary that captures their journey. https://teamrwb.org/old-glory-ultra-relay Chapters 00:00 – Intro: Meet Zack Lever02:30 – From Military Service to Ultra Running06:10 – What Makes the Old Glory Relay Special10:45 – Team Selection & Training for the Relay15:30 – Behind the Scenes: Crew, Strategy & Logistics23:20 – Carrying the Flag Across America29:45 – Challenges on the Road: Weather, Injury & Emotion36:00 – Community Impact & Support42:15 – Highlights, Humor & Human Moments48:40 – Veteran Resilience & Personal Growth54:20 – Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Zack Follow us on Patreon patreon.com/theadventurejogger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Adventure Jogger, Steven Kornhaus and Valan break down the must-have gear for trail and ultra running. From shoes and hydration systems to watches and nutrition, they share hard-earned tips highlight what’s truly essential, and call out the gear that’s overrated. Whether you're gearing up for your first ultra or streamlining your setup, this episode helps you keep it simple, safe, and smart. Chapters00:00 – Introduction and Cocodona Race Highlights02:49 – Trail Running Gear Essentials06:04 – Choosing the Right Trail Shoes08:58 – Hydration Systems for Trail Running12:13 – Clothing Choices for Trail Running26:29 – Essential Safety Gear for Outdoor Adventures34:10 – The Great Watch Debate: Do You Really Need One?37:02 – Fueling Your Runs: Nutrition Essentials42:10 – Overrated Gear: What You Really Don't Need49:27 – Final Thoughts: Keeping It Simple and Enjoying Running Join us on Patreon patreon.com/theadventurejogger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Adventure Jogger, host Steven Kornhaus catches up with ultra runner Kristian Morgan as he prepares for another Fastest Known Time attempt on the Appalachian Trail. Kristian shares how past efforts have shaped his mindset, the critical role of crew support, and what he’s doing differently this time. From emotional resilience to training in Thailand, this conversation dives into the grit, planning, and passion fueling his 2025 AT record bid. What'sApp link to help Kristian on the AT: https://chat.whatsapp.com/EmfEGzFJelMIzwGzTRQERS https://www.kristianultra.com/ Podcast Chapters 00:00 – Welcome Back to The Adventure Jogger 05:59 – Kristian Morgan’s Appalachian Trail Journey 10:52 – Wildlife Encounters & Nature’s Beauty 14:12 – Life in Thailand as a Runner 18:40 – Finding Inspiration from the Community 21:25 – Evolving Training for Ultra Distances 24:08 – Lessons from Failure 26:23 – Prepping for the Appalachian Trail FKT 35:04 – Pacing Strategies & Community Support 38:01 – Planning & Adapting for Record Attempts 46:46 – Crew Support: The Backbone of Success 52:21 – Trail Highlights & Emotional Highs and Lows 01:03:18 – What Past Attempts Have Taught 01:07:27 – Future Adventures Beyond the AT Join us on Patreon patreon.com/theadventurejogger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Adventure Jogger podcast, Priscilla Buchanan shares her inspiring journey into running, starting from her initial struggles to becoming a Boston qualifier. She discusses the challenges of balancing motherhood with training, the importance of community support, and the lessons learned from injuries and recovery. Priscilla emphasizes the significance of strength training in her running journey and how she aims to inspire her children to pursue their own hard things. The conversation also touches on future aspirations, the role of female athletes as inspirations, and the joy of achieving personal milestones in running. 📍 Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Priscilla’s Start 02:30 – Racing Highlights & BQ Journey 05:00 – Balancing Motherhood & Training 08:50 – Community, Support & Strength 13:45 – Pikes Peak Double Experience 18:10 – Injury Recovery & Lessons 22:40 – Foot Care & Gear Tips 28:10 – Smart Training & Future Goals 34:00 – Running at Altitude 38:30 – Favorite Workouts & Challenges 49:25 – Running Joy & Inspiring Others 56:10 – Final Advice for Runners Join us on Patreon! patreon.com/theadventurejogger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join host Steven Kornhaus as he interviews Australian ultra runner Jason Williamson—pilot, adventurer, and FKT chaser. From childhood runs on a farm to the wild terrain of the Ireland Way, Jason shares his incredible journey into ultra running, his upcoming run across Australia, and the deeper purpose that drives him. Discover what it takes to run far, dream big, and make an impact—one step at a time. 📲 Follow Jason’s journey: https://www.instagram.com/jasonwilliamsonultra/ Jason's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6rW7j0HoeI 📍 Chapters 00:00 – Intro to Jason Williamson 01:13 – Early Running & Aviation Career 10:14 – Return to Running & Health Focus 12:27 – Ultra Running & First Race 21:50 – Competitive Racing & Achievements 23:04 – The Ireland Way FKT Attempt 26:54 – Trail Beauty & Adventure 30:04 – Setbacks & Final Stretch 35:56 – FKT Reflections & New Goals 42:59 – Support Team & Mental Health 49:38 – Storytelling & Shared Experiences 52:57 – Logistics & Outback Planning 01:11:32 – Running for Charity Join us on Patreon! patreon.com/theadventurejogger #ultrarunning #trailrunning #australia #runningmotivation #adventurejogger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Adventure Jogger, Steven and Valan Kornhaus share essential tips for first-time ultra runners. From making the leap from road to trail, dialing in your nutrition and gear, to mastering aid stations and building mental grit, they cover everything new runners need to know. With personal stories, practical advice, and a few laughs, this episode is your guide to surviving—and thriving—in your first ultra. https://theadventurejogger.com/ https://www.patreon.com/c/theadventurejogger Chapters 00:00 – Setting Up for Success 06:46 – Nutrition: The Key to Endurance 12:46 – Maximizing Aid Station Efficiency 19:34 – Foot Care and Gear Testing 25:07 – Mental Resilience in Ultra Running 31:15 – Affordable Gear for Runners 36:50 – Navigating Nature's Call During Races 42:34 – Managing Periods and Personal Care 48:24 – Understanding Recovery After Races Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Adventure Jogger Podcast, Steven Kornhaus and co-host Valan explore the deep connection between running and mental health. They tackle the highs and lows of ultra running, from the sting of DNFs to the power of mindfulness and emotional resilience on the trails. Valan shares insights from her upcoming athlete-focused workbook, introducing DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) techniques to strengthen your mental game—both in racing and in life. With a mix of humor and hard-earned wisdom, they also dive into the psychology of endurance racing, the struggle to balance training with personal life, and the quirks of trail running culture. @valanrunslife Podcast Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and Co-Hosting Dynamics 02:11 – Mental Health and Running: A Personal Journey 05:24 – The Rise of Trail Running and Its Benefits 12:25 – Mental Health Challenges in Running 14:40 – Creating a Workbook for Athletes 19:57 – DBT Skills for Athletes: Mindfulness and Beyond 35:43 – The Commitment of Ultra Running 41:50 – Balancing Relationships and Running 47:08 – Trail Running Pet Peeves 53:40 – Aid Station Food Favorites 01:01:30 – The Competitive Landscape of Ultra Running 01:07:11 – The Importance of Mental Health Coaching Join us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/c/theadventurejogger #adventurejoggerpodcast #trailrunning #adventurejogger #ultrarunning #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness A division of Its Just Running Productions, LLC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Adventure Jogger, Steven Kornhaus chats with ultra runner Wes Plate about his journey from high school sprinter to mid-pack elite in 200-mile races. Wes shares the challenges of transitioning from 100 to 200 miles, the mental and spiritual aspects of endurance racing, and the lessons learned from sleep deprivation and overnight training. He also discusses his YouTube channel, the power of the ultra-running community, and his preparation for the Arizona Monster 300. https://www.wesplate.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@wplate Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Wes Plate and Ultra Running 02:54 – Wes's Journey into Running and Early Experiences 06:01 – Transitioning to Ultra Distances 08:56 – First 100-Mile Experience and Lessons Learned 12:01 – The Leap to 200-Mile Races 15:03 – The Spiritual Aspect of Ultra Running 17:54 – Creating a YouTube Channel and Community Impact 29:34 – Training for the 200-Mile Challenge 34:03 – Experiencing the First 240-Mile Race 40:27 – Spiritual Insights from Endurance Racing 44:10 – Recovery After Extreme Distances 46:25 – The Significance of Cocodona 55:27 – Preparing for the Arizona Monster 300-Mile Race 57:58 – Understanding the Challenge of Ultra-Distance Races 01:00:05 – Sleep Strategies for Endurance Racing 01:03:05 – Preparing for the Arizona Monster 01:05:51 – The Importance of Experience in Ultra Racing 01:10:04 – Advice for First-Time 200-Mile Runners Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/c/theadventurejogger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Adventure Jogger Podcast, Steven Kornhaus chats with professional trail runner James Lauriello about his journey from team sports in Florida to elite trail racing in Colorado. They discuss his training on the Manitou Incline, the power of networking in the running world, and his sponsorships with La Sportiva and Ultimate Direction. James shares insights on the Yeti 12 Days Vert Challenge, the Cirque Series, and balancing authenticity with social media. They also dive into the latest gear, self-coaching vs. professional training, and the rise of high-carb fueling in ultra running. @jameslauriello @steepstuff_pod https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-steep-stuff-podcast/id1736139061 Podcast Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to James Lauriello 02:53 – Training in Manitou Springs 06:02 – Fast Ascent of the Incline 08:53 – James's Running Journey 12:08 – Transition to Professional Running 15:04 – Building Relationships in the Running Community 17:59 – Sponsorships and Professional Growth 20:51 – Future Goals and Aspirations 25:11 – Exploring the Yeti 12 Days Vert Challenge 26:45 – Upcoming Races and Challenges 30:12 – Cirque Series and Mountain Running 33:12 – The Growth of the Steep Stuff Podcast 39:41 – Authenticity in Podcasting 42:03 – Challenges of Social Media in Podcasting 43:23 – Gear Talk: Shoes and Vests 51:40 – Innovative Gear: The Ultravest Revolution 54:44 – Market Dynamics: Shifts in Running Gear Preferences 56:02 – The Cost of Quality: Pricing in Athletic Gear 01:00:04 – Self-Coaching vs. Professional Guidance in Training 01:09:29 – Nutrition Trends: High Carb Fueling in Ultra Running 01:14:32 – The Competitive Spirit: Racing Dynamics and Relationships Full episode out now! https://theadventurejogger.com/listen Support us on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/c/theadventurejogger #adventurejoggerpodcast #adventurejogger #trailrunning #ultrarunning #thesteepstuffpodcast A division of Its Just Running Productions, LLC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Adventure Jogger Podcast, host Steven Kornhaus dives into endurance nutrition with registered dietitian Alex Larson. They explore the essentials of proper fueling for endurance athletes, common nutrition mistakes, and why breakfast is crucial for performance. Alex shares her personal journey into endurance sports and how it led her to launch a nutrition business dedicated to helping athletes optimize their fueling strategies. The conversation covers pre-run nutrition, the dangers of under-fueling, and key post-race recovery tips. Alex also discusses the unique challenges faced by plant-based athletes, the role of protein in recovery, and the impact of different diets on performance. Additional topics include bicarbonate fueling, creatine benefits for plant-based athletes, greens powders, and high-altitude nutrition—offering a deep dive into how proper fueling can enhance endurance performance. https://alexlarsonnutrition.com/ Podcast Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Endurance Nutrition 03:00 – Alex's Journey into Endurance Sports 06:00 – The Birth of Alex Larson Nutrition 09:08 – Common Nutrition Mistakes in Endurance Athletes 12:00 – The Importance of Breakfast for Athletes 15:07 – Pre-Run Nutrition Strategies 17:48 – Effects of Under-Fueling on Performance 21:01 – Post-Race Recovery Nutrition 25:00 – Post-Race Recovery Essentials 28:15 – Nutritional Strategies for Recovery 31:57 – The Role of Protein in Endurance Events 34:59 – Plant-Based Nutrition for Athletes 36:47 – The Science of Plant-Based Recovery 39:51 – Controversial Diets in Endurance Sports 42:31 – High Carb Fueling for Endurance 48:52 – Real Food vs. Gels in Ultra Running 49:19 – Fueling for Performance: The Power of Food Choices 50:01 – Exploring Bicarbonate Fueling: Science and Experience 51:54 – Creatine: A Game Changer for Plant-Based Athletes 56:10 – Understanding Female Athlete Nutrition: Unique Considerations 01:01:20 – The Role of Greens Powders: Are They Beneficial? 01:03:43 – High Altitude Training: Nutrition Strategies for Success Support us on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/theadventurejogger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices