Becoming Ultra

Becoming Ultra is all about that first Ultra. We follow other runners training for their first Ultra, interview race directors of Ultra's, talk training tips, and just about anything for that next, very long, step.

Take a Bet on Yourself with Trail Sisters Founder Gina Lucrezi 07/16/2026

Take a Bet on Yourself with Trail Sisters Founder Gina Lucrezi Trail running can be intimidating, even if you are already an experienced runner. When Gina Lucrezi first moved from track to trail, she approached a steep Colorado climb with the same stride and expectations she had as a 10-time NCAA Division III All-American. It didn’t take long before she was forced to walk while a more experienced trail runner pitter-pattered past her. It was a humbling introduction to one of trail running’s most important lessons: you have to let go of pace and learn a different way to move. Today, Gina is the founder of Trail Sisters, an organization dedicated to increasing women’s participation and opportunities in trail running through inspiration, education, and empowerment. What began in 2016 as an online journal with contributions from seven of Gina’s friends has grown into a community that includes local running groups, retreats, races, and educational resources. In this episode, Gina and Scott talk about the confidence gap that keeps many people from trying trail running and why building confidence is a daily practice. Gina explains how no-drop groups help runners feel welcome, why hiking is absolutely part of trail running, and what road runners need to understand before making the move to the trails. They also cover the practical side of getting started, including choosing the right gear, planning and downloading routes, staying aware of your surroundings, and preparing for changing weather. Gina shares advice from her experience as a trail runner and member of her local search and rescue team, including why hypothermia can be a concern even during warmer months and what to do when lightning or storms move in. In this episode: How Gina went from elite track runner to trail and ultrarunner Why she created Trail Sisters and how it has evolved over 10 years Confidence as one of the biggest barriers to trail running Why no-drop groups make the trails more accessible Letting go of road pace and learning to run by terrain and effort Why walking and power hiking belong in trail running The gear beginners actually need Route planning, offline maps, and trail awareness Preparing for weather, hypothermia, and lightning The Trail Sisters Half Marathon and 10K in Buena Vista Finding purpose through community involvement and service Whether you are curious about trail running, preparing for your first trail race, or looking for a more welcoming community, this conversation is a reminder that you do not have to be fast or experienced to belong on the trails. Sometimes you just have to take a bet on yourself. Chapters (00:00) Introduction and guest background (01:01) Gina's origins and move to Colorado (04:04) What inspired the creation of Trail Sisters (08:33) Trail Sisters' 10-year journey and growth (13:21) Evolution of Trail Sisters' programs (16:36) Community and inclusivity in trail groups (20:48) Key lessons from building a community (23:48) Overcoming fears and mindset for trail beginners (27:11) The beauty of trail variability and troubleshooting (32:36) Gear essentials for new trail runners (35:35) Safety tools and strategies for trail running (40:11) Weather considerations and safety (43:30) Upcoming Trail Sisters race event (45:25) Favorite trails and local adventures (47:38) Favorite races and post-race treats (48:35) Gina's hobbies and community involvement (57:24) Closing thoughts and future plans Learn more about Gina and Trail Sisters on September 12, 2026, in Buena Vista, Colorado. /episode/index/show/becomingultra/id/42107925

Managing The Heat: Training & Race-Day Strategies with Liza Howard 07/07/2026

Managing The Heat: Training & Race-Day Strategies with Liza Howard 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: Connect with Liza: Instagram: /episode/index/show/becomingultra/id/41984950

Injury, Recovery, and Running for Life with Dr. Kevin R. Stone 06/30/2026

The Ultimate Guide to Crewing an Ultra with Sandra Bullock Smith 06/23/2026

The Ultimate Guide to Crewing an Ultra with Sandra Bullock Smith 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: /episode/index/show/becomingultra/id/41711180

The Ultimate Foot Care Guide for Ultra Runners with Dr. Tonya Olson 06/16/2026

Exploring Colorado's Hidden Gem: The West Elk Wilderness Race 06/09/2026

"The Art Of Ultrarunning" with Ian Sharman 04/30/2026

Short solo with Scott: Trail camp, Ian Sharman's new book, and call to unique guests! 04/08/2026

Lauren Callahan: Peptides, gut health, and her ultra journey. 03/24/2026

Ian Sharman: "It's more about the process and understanding how your body works." 01/28/2026

Chris Avery: How running unleashed something inside and plans for a run around the perimeter of America! 01/19/2026

From 305 to Ultra: A Journey of Adventure and Transformation! 01/07/2026

Lootie's World Run: The fastest woman to run around the world! 12/10/2025

Lootie's World Run: The fastest woman to run around the world! Scott sits down with Marie Leautey to talk about her epic run around the world, yes, the world! Enjoy the show and read below for a solid AI description of it all!! Title: Running the World: Marie Leautey's Incredible Journey of Self-Discovery Introduction: In a world where adventure often feels out of reach, Marie Leautey's story is a testament to the power of determination and the transformative nature of running. From a life of smoking to becoming a world runner, Marie's journey is not just about the miles; it’s about rediscovering oneself and embracing new challenges. Main Content: 1. **A Nomadic Background** Marie Ludie, known affectionately as Lootie, hails from France but has lived in various countries, making her a true global citizen. Speaking four languages and having experience in multiple cultures, her nomadic lifestyle has shaped her perspective on life and fitness. It was during her time as a nomad that she discovered the joys of running, which allowed her to explore new places intimately. 2. **The Turning Point** At the age of 26, Marie faced a pivotal moment when she realized her unhealthy lifestyle was holding her back. A friend invited her to run, and after merely 500 meters, she found herself out of breath, a shocking realization for someone so young. This moment ignited a fire within her, prompting her to quit smoking and commit to a healthier lifestyle. She vowed never to miss a day of running, turning her newfound passion into a daily habit that transformed her life. 3. **The Concept of the World Run** The dream of running around the world emerged in 2017 while Marie was working as a CFO in Singapore. Bored and doodling during a conference call, she sketched a figure running around a globe. Upon researching, she discovered that only six people had accomplished such a feat before her. This validation fueled her desire to embark on her own world run, leading her to spend two years preparing mentally and physically for the challenge. 4. **The Journey Begins** Marie began her world run in December 2019, just three months before the pandemic changed the world. Over the next three years, she would cover over 26,000 kilometers, experiencing diverse cultures and landscapes across multiple continents. Each day brought new challenges and new perspectives, making her journey not just a physical challenge but also a spiritual and emotional one. 5. **The Rules of Engagement** Marie’s journey was guided by the World Runners Association, which established the rules for world runs. This included a minimum distance requirement and a set path that navigated the planet’s continents while accounting for the vast bodies of water. These regulations helped Marie shape her route, ensuring her journey was both authentic and recognized by the running community. /episode/index/show/becomingultra/id/39360030

How busy runners can use December to set up for success in 2026. 12/03/2025

Race Spotlight: Standhope Ultra Challenge [Idaho Mountains] 11/20/2025

Took a little long at the aid station! 11/12/2025

Race Director Ken Krogsrud of the Lost Sierra Endurance Race 06/27/2025

Adam Ludwin on the power of breath for performance! 05/16/2025

Adam Ludwin on the power of breath for performance! Scott has a conversation with Adam Ludwin who shares his entrepreneurial journey from founding Captify Technologies to discovering the transformative power of breathwork. He discusses the challenges of running a high-pressure business, the importance of self-awareness, and how he transitioned into creating fivepointfive, an app designed to make breathwork accessible and beneficial for everyone. Adam emphasizes the physiological and psychological benefits of breathwork, its role in education, and the necessity of teaching healthy coping mechanisms to future generations. They discuss the significance of breath work in enhancing performance, recovery, and overall well-being. He emphasizes the importance of different breathing techniques for various activities, including weight training and endurance sports. The discussion also covers the benefits of nose breathing, the role of breath work in recovery, and natural alternatives to pre-workout supplements. We think you'll enjoy this unique perspective with something all athletes can implement in their lives! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Adam Ludwin and His Journey 02:53 The Birth of Captify Technologies 05:50 The Transition to Breathwork and Self-Discovery 09:13 Lessons Learned from Building a Business 12:01 The Launch of 5.5 and Its Vision 15:09 Understanding Breathwork: Definitions and History 17:56 The Science and Benefits of Breathwork 20:46 Breathwork in Education and Its Importance 23:47 Physiological Effects of Breathwork Techniques 28:09 Breath Work for Performance and Recovery 30:39 Breathing Techniques for Weight Training 32:28 Nose Breathing vs. Mouth Breathing 34:18 The Importance of Recovery Breathing 36:03 Natural Alternatives to Pre-Workout Supplements 39:31 Breath Work for Endurance Athletes 42:28 Diaphragmatic Breathing Techniques 43:03 Improving Sleep Quality through Breathing 46:08 The Business Journey of Breath Work App /episode/index/show/becomingultra/id/36593855

Season 16:30 Denise becomes an ultra runner in Mendocino! 05/14/2025

Henry Abbott and the new science of injury free sport! 05/09/2025

Henry Abbott and the new science of injury free sport! Scott Jones and Henry Abbott explore the importance of outdoor play, the evolution of sports, and the significance of injury prevention in athletics. They share personal anecdotes about their childhood adventures and parenting experiences, emphasizing the need for unstructured play in children's lives. Abbott discusses his journey as a sports writer and his recent work on biomechanics and injury prevention, highlighting the joy of movement and the relationships built through sports. They delve into various aspects of athletic performance, focusing on injury prevention, particularly ACL injuries, and the biomechanics of landing. They discuss the importance of understanding body mechanics, the impact of footwear on performance, and practical coaching tips for athletes. The dialogue emphasizes the need for tailored training methods and the significance of addressing common issues like 'computer back' in today's athletes. They discuss the evolution of running techniques, the significance of ballistic training, and practical drills that can be applied by anyone. The conversation also touches on the concept of Misogi, emphasizing the value of outdoor challenges and creative training methods to engage communities and promote physical fitness. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:03 The Joy of Outdoor Adventures 06:02 The Importance of Play in Childhood 08:59 Navigating Parenting and Outdoor Activities 11:59 The Evolution of Sports and Competition 15:08 Injury Prevention and Biomechanics 18:03 The Power of Movement and Joy 21:57 Exploring Athletic Insights 27:15 Understanding ACL Injuries 33:32 The Importance of Landing Mechanics 39:41 Addressing Computer Back Issues 41:02 The Shoe Debate in Athletics 49:53 Injury Insights and Athletic Training 50:12 The Evolution of Running Techniques 51:45 Ballistic Training for Peak Performance 53:41 Practical Drills for Everyone 57:28 Youth Sports and Development 01:01:10 The Concept of Masogi and Outdoor Challenges 01:05:22 Creative Training Methods and Community Engagement /episode/index/show/becomingultra/id/36510020