Advertise on podcast: The Journey Running Podcast

In this episode, Anastasia Rolek shares her incredible journey through ultra running, her Western States 100 experience, and the power of manifesting her race entry. Stefan and Anastasia discuss training strategies, race day insights, and the mental resilience needed for 100-mile races. Anastasia shares a very insightful story about her Western States experience, making sure to highlight the challenges, community, and personal growth experienced along the way. Chapters  00:24 Introduction and podcast updates  01:39 Stefan introduces Anastasia Roleck and her ultra running background  04:26 Anastasia shares her journey from marathons to ultra distances  07:36 Her experiences at Prairie Spirit and her race times  09:24 The significance of Western States and her race history  14:29 Anastasia discusses her motivation and how her why has evolved  19:34 Her relationship with Katra Corbett and ultra racing friendships  22:29 Training for Western States and balancing life challenges  34:06 The training components needed for Western States  37:49 Injury management and mental resilience during training  42:08 Race day experience and reflections on Western States  47:50 Race recap and Anastasia’s detailed race story  52:48 Race environment and the unique atmosphere of Western States  01:03:05 The first 30 miles: challenges and experiences  01:05:27 Community support and meeting fellow runners  01:10:26 River crossing and technical terrain  01:15:32 Mental strategies and overcoming doubts  01:20:27 The importance of pacing and race plan  01:25:32 Encounters with inspiring runners and stories  01:30:30 The final miles and crossing the finish line  01:35:14 Reflections on the journey and lessons learned  01:40:24 Future goals and personal growth Send us Fan Mail Journey Running Links Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: Journey_Running Facebook: Journey_Running Tiktok: JourneyRunning Nourish Referral Link: https://www.usenourish.com/providers/stefan-schuster?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Stefan+Schuster&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Stefan_Schuster

In this episode, Stefan Schuster discusses his new book Beyond the Singletrack, sharing insights on ultrarunning, personal growth, and life lessons learned through endurance sports. He also details the writing process, inspirations, and how running shapes character and success. Book Summary: From middle school miles and marathons to some of the most demanding ultramarathons in the world – including the Moab 240, Sangre de Cristo 100, Bear 100, Bighorn 100, and more – Beyond the Singletrack follows a journey shaped by endurance, love, failure, and persistence. But this isn’t just a collection of race stories. Each chapter reflects on mental health, identity, relationships, and even the meaning of life. Running has a way of challenging how we set goals, define success, and respond to adversity. It exposes who we are and what it means to pursue something that matters. This book asks the questions from the trail. I hope these words stay with you beyond the singletrack. I hope they shape how you live, think, and show up in life. I hope they challenge you to refine your values, and ultimately, to become a better person through the pursuit of what you love.  This is more than a sport. This is how you learn to live. Pre-order your signed copy here: https://www.journeyruncoaching.com/book Send us Fan Mail Journey Running Links Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: Journey_Running Facebook: Journey_Running Tiktok: JourneyRunning Nourish Referral Link: https://www.usenourish.com/providers/stefan-schuster?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Stefan+Schuster&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Stefan_Schuster

In this episode of the Journey Running Podcast, Stefan Schuster interviews Jill Wilkins, a remarkable ultrarunner who recently completed the Cocodona 250.  They discuss her journey from beginner to 250-mile finisher, overcoming challenges like eating disorders, and  life-changing lessons learned through ultrarunning. Jill also walks listeners through her experience at this year's Cocodona 250, highlighting the highs and lows of her journey. Jill talks about how doing something she though was once impossible - running 250 miles - changed her life and how you can too. Send us Fan Mail Journey Running Links Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: Journey_Running Facebook: Journey_Running Tiktok: JourneyRunning Nourish Referral Link: https://www.usenourish.com/providers/stefan-schuster?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Stefan+Schuster&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Stefan_Schuster

In this episode, I share my detailed experience at the Jackpot 100. I cover race strategy, mental toughness, self-care, social interactions, lessons learned from running on concrete and review my performance as well. This episode offers valuable insights, tips & tricks for ultrarunners who are looking to improve their race approach and mindset at looped ultras. I also give a detailed report of my day before the event, which was unfortunately eventful. Chapters 00:24 Introduction to Journey Running Podcast  04:40 Pre-Race Preparations and Challenges  24:18 Race Day Experience and Strategy  33:51 Mental Toughness in Ultra Running  34:18 The Mental Cycle of Ultra Running  36:39 Self-Care Strategies During Races  40:55 Challenges of Running on Concrete  45:32 Social Connections in Ultra Running  53:29 The Role of Music in Performance  01:00:57 Performance Goals and Reflections  01:06:41 Celebrating Achievements in Ultra Running  01:07:51 Introduction to Trail and Ultra Running  01:08:19 Closing Thoughts Send us Fan Mail Journey Running Links Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: Journey_Running Facebook: Journey_Running Tiktok: JourneyRunning Nourish Referral Link: https://www.usenourish.com/providers/stefan-schuster?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Stefan+Schuster&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Stefan_Schuster

In this episode, Stefan Schuster interviews Josh Sprague, founder of Orange Mud and Seven Clay where they explore his journey from endurance athlete to successful entrepreneur. They discuss industry changes, product innovation, and the importance of perseverance and positivity. Josh also shares a few of the many stories he has amassed from his time as an adventure racing participant. He discusses safety in ultra running and how important navigation skills are, in being a successful outdoor adventurer. Nourish Referral Link: https://www.usenourish.com/providers/stefan-schuster?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Stefan+Schuster&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Stefan_Schuster Chapters 00:24 Introduction to Josh Sprague and His Companies  13:36 Josh's Endurance Journey and Passion for Trail Running  18:56 The Evolution of Adventure Racing and Its Challenges  21:44 The Birth of Orange Mud: A Solution to Gear Frustrations  37:13 Turning Ideas into Reality: The Challenges of Product Development  37:42 Overcoming Manufacturing Challenges  43:34 Navigating the Advertising Landscape  48:35 Evolution of the Outdoor Gear Industry  55:12 Balancing Family Life and Entrepreneurship  58:01 The Birth of New Ventures  01:07:20 Lessons from a Life-Altering Adventure  01:13:32 Introduction to Trail and Ultra Running  01:14:00 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action Send us Fan Mail Journey Running Links Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: Journey_Running Facebook: Journey_Running Tiktok: JourneyRunning Nourish Referral Link: https://www.usenourish.com/providers/stefan-schuster?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Stefan+Schuster&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Stefan_Schuster

In this episode, Stefan Schuster interviews ultrarunning Race Director John Lacroix, owner and founder of the Human Potential Running Series. John has directed the second-most ultramarathons in the sport’s history and has completed 24 100-mile races himself. Drawing from his experience as both a race director and an athlete, John reflects on the evolution of ultrarunning since he entered the sport in 2005, his transition from competitor to race director, and the core values that shape the ultrarunning community. He also shares thoughtful perspectives on the sport’s future, including its relationship with land management agencies, the tension between grassroots culture and corporate influence, and what it will take to preserve the spirit of ultrarunning as it grows. For more information about the Human Potential Running Series, please visit: https://humanpotentialrunning.com/ Chapters: 00:24 Introduction to John LaCroix and His Achievements  08:32 The Evolution of Ultra Running and Race Directing  11:22 The Challenge of Niwot and Its Unique Format  14:35 The Barkley Marathons: A Hot Take on Newcomers  17:26 The Importance of Map and Compass Skills  20:34 John's Journey into Ultra Running  23:32 The Changing Landscape of Ultra Running  26:36 The Role of Social Media in Ultra Running  29:30 Transitioning from Runner to Race Director  32:44 Values Behind Human Potential Running Series  38:10 The Evolution of Human Potential Running Series  39:38 Challenging Traditional Race Values  42:23 Inclusivity and Diversity in Ultra Running  48:52 Understanding Justice and Neurodivergence  01:02:29 The Future of Ultra Running and Personal Growth  01:17:54 Introduction to the Current State of Racing  01:18:38 The Evolution of Race Registration and Participation  01:21:06 Community and Volunteerism in Racing  01:25:42 The Shift from Community to Business in Racing  01:27:33 The Extraction Phase of Ultra Running  01:37:22 The Future of Grassroots Racing  01:38:59 Permitting Challenges in the U.S. vs. Europe  01:45:13 The Future of Trail Racing and Land Management  01:48:43 The Oligarchy of Trail Running  01:51:45 Balancing Tradition and Modernization in Trail Running  01:54:41 Creativity in Race Directing and Event Concepts  01:57:46 Reflections on FKTs and Their Impact  02:01:26 The Journey of a Race Director and Personal Growth  02:17:34 Introduction to Trail and Ultra Running  02:18:02 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action Send us Fan Mail Journey Running Links Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: Journey_Running Facebook: Journey_Running Tiktok: JourneyRunning Nourish Referral Link: https://www.usenourish.com/providers/stefan-schuster?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Stefan+Schuster&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Stefan_Schuster

In this episode of the Journey Running Podcast, host Stefan Schuster speaks with Boulder Burrito League champions Kelsey Lakowske and Sean Hollister about their journey into ultrarunning, the Burrito League challenge, and the importance of community in the sport. Kelsey & Sean talk about how they ran their first 100 miler on the last day of the Burrito League challenge, lessons learned from that experience and the joy of competition. They emphasize the significance of curiosity, competition, and community in their running endeavors, and how these elements contribute to their overall motivation and enjoyment in the sport. Chapters 00:24 Introduction to the Journey Running Podcast  03:14 Meet the Boulder Burrito League Champions  06:24 Understanding the Burrito League Challenge  09:23 Personal Journeys into Ultra Running  12:24 The Importance of Community in Running  15:32 Strategies for Success in the Burrito League  18:12 The Final Day of the Burrito League  21:29 Reflections on Competition and Community  39:24 Nutrition Strategies for Endurance Racing  43:24 Post-Race Reflections and Mental Health  48:28 The Power of Community in Ultra Running  52:20 Lessons Learned from the Burrito League  01:00:25 Personal Journeys and Growth Through Running Send us Fan Mail Journey Running Links Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: Journey_Running Facebook: Journey_Running Tiktok: JourneyRunning Nourish Referral Link: https://www.usenourish.com/providers/stefan-schuster?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Stefan+Schuster&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Stefan_Schuster

In this episode of the Journey Running Podcast, host Stefan Schuster speaks with Registered Dietitian, Alyssa Lieb about the intersection of nutrition and ultrarunning. They discuss Alyssa's journey to becoming a dietitian and ultrarunner, the importance of adequate fueling for athletes, and the anti-diet approach that focuses on habits rather than weight. The conversation also covers the repercussions of inadequate fueling and nutrition during long runs and races. They particularly dive into the high carb philosophy which has gaining traction in the ultra running community and hydration/electrolyte balance. They discuss the unique physiological aspects of female athletes, including the implications of menstrual cycles and hormonal changes which nutrition can impact. The conversation also touches on public health and the recent changes in dietary guidelines, highlighting the potential impact on athletes. Finally, they explore the light-hearted topic of the Burrito League, emphasizing the nutritional value of burritos and their place in an athlete's diet. Contact info for Alyssa Leib: Instagram: ayssaoutside_rd Website: https://www.peaktopeaknutrition.com Chapters  00:24 Introduction to Alyssa Lieb and Her Journey  07:46 The Anti-Diet Dietitian Philosophy  10:49 Understanding Weight Loss Goals in Athletes  13:35 The Importance of Adequate Fueling  16:23 Intuitive Eating and Its Role in Performance  19:31 Nutrition Strategies for Bone Health  22:32 The Pathology of Under-Fueling  25:29 Safe Weight Loss Strategies for Athletes  28:24 Fueling During Exercise and Race Preparation  30:50 Elisa's Experience with Ultra Running  33:53 Vertical Kilometer Races and Their Unique Challenges  38:05 Understanding Vertical Kilometers  40:23 Fueling Philosophy for Endurance Races  43:38 The High Carb Philosophy in Ultra Running  46:20 Hydration and Electrolyte Management  58:22 Gender Differences in Athletic Nutrition  01:03:22 Understanding Female Health Signals  01:05:50 The Impact of Menopause on Health  01:07:01 Navigating New Dietary Guidelines  01:13:50 The Burrito League and Nutrition Philosophy  01:23:39 Personal Journeys and Professional Growth  01:26:12 Introduction to Trail and Ultra Running  01:26:34 Coaching and Nutrition for Runners Send us Fan Mail Journey Running Links Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: Journey_Running Facebook: Journey_Running Tiktok: JourneyRunning Nourish Referral Link: https://www.usenourish.com/providers/stefan-schuster?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Stefan+Schuster&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Stefan_Schuster

In this episode of the Journey Running Podcast, host Stefan Schuster shares his detailed race report of the Leadville 100, an iconic ultra marathon. He discusses tons of coaching advice, sports science and general tips and tricks to succeed at this race including his preparation, strategies for nutrition and hydration, and the importance of efficient aid station transitions. Throughout the conversation, Stefan emphasizes the significance of pacing, especially in the early miles, and shares insights on preparing for the challenging climbs and descents this race offers, particularly on the challenging Hope Pass. Stefan also covers key aspects such as altitude acclimatization, race preparation and the importance of having a supportive pacer. He reflects on his performance, the challenges faced during the race, and the lessons learned that can benefit other ultra runners. Enjoy! Chapters 00:24 The Calm Before the Race  19:08 Navigating Challenges in Ultra Running  22:25 Efficient Aid Station Strategies  25:13 Training for Varied Terrain  28:26 Mastering Downhill Running  31:15 The Importance of Crew and Support  34:27 Hydration and Nutrition Strategies  37:12 Preparing for Hope Pass  40:05 Altitude Acclimatization and Its Myths  43:25 The Descent and Mental Preparation  46:17 Thermal Regulation and Staying Cool  49:06 Final Thoughts on Race Strategy  01:00:47 Climbing Challenges and Hydration Insights  01:03:38 Knee Pain and Recovery Strategies  01:06:03 Aid Station Experiences and Crew Support  01:09:15 Pacing Dynamics and Race Comparisons  01:17:24 Final Stretch: Mental and Physical Struggles  01:29:41 Lessons Learned and Future Strategies Send us Fan Mail Journey Running Links Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: Journey_Running Facebook: Journey_Running Tiktok: JourneyRunning Nourish Referral Link: https://www.usenourish.com/providers/stefan-schuster?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Stefan+Schuster&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Stefan_Schuster

In this episode of the Journey Running Podcast, host Stefan Schuster welcomes TJ Harms-Synkiew, an ultrarunner with a diverse background in trail running, seasonal work and trail maintenance to the show. Together they discuss the importance of trail work, TJ's transition to ultra running, and the mental challenges faced in endurance sports. TJ shares his journey from completing his first marathon to tackling 100-mile races, timed events and backyard ultras. In this conversation, TJ shares his experiences and insights on these unique event formats, the appeal of timed events plus loop courses and the unique mindset required to succeed in these events. TJ also discusses the strategies that have worked for him in backyard racing along with the importance of finding balance in ultrarunning to prevent burnout (spoiler alert: fun should be the primary goal!). We also discuss the necessity of discipline in training and TJ's personal journey of living life on his own terms as he navigates his running career. Chapters  00:24 Show Introduction  02:57 TJ's Introduction, Seasonal Work and Its Impact on Life Choices  08:45 Trail Work: The Importance and Challenges  11:50 Experiences with Trail Work and Community Involvement  14:40 The Role of Volunteers in Trail Maintenance  17:43 Daily Life of a Trail Worker  20:41 The Chavano Project and Trail Development  23:49 Social Trails: Perspectives and Implications  26:45 Transitioning to Ultra Running: A Personal Journey  29:52 The Journey to Ultra Running  35:16 Building Confidence Through Challenges  38:47 The Loop Race Experience  49:37 Mindset in Timed Events vs Fixed Distances  53:12 Understanding Backyard Ultras  58:20 Mastering Compartmentalization in Ultra Running  59:18 Strategies for Backyard Ultra Racing  01:04:42 Finding Balance in Ultra Running  01:07:38 The Importance of Fun in Racing  01:11:37 Building a Sustainable Running Routine  01:17:31 Living Life on Your Own Terms  01:20:54 Navigating Life's Journey Through Running  01:23:48 Introduction to Trail and Ultra Running  01:24:17 Coaching and Nutrition Insights Send us Fan Mail Journey Running Links Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: Journey_Running Facebook: Journey_Running Tiktok: JourneyRunning Nourish Referral Link: https://www.usenourish.com/providers/stefan-schuster?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Stefan+Schuster&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Stefan_Schuster

In this episode of the Journey Running Podcast, host Stefan Schuster welcomes trail medic and ultra runner Natasha Swartley. They discuss Natasha's journey from military service to trail running, her experiences as a medic, and the importance of optimism and resilience in both life and running. Natasha shares her insights on mental health, the impact of running on her well-being, and her nutrition journey with her dietitian. In this conversation, Natasha Swartley shares her insights on trail running safety, the mental state of runners, and the importance of making healthy decisions during races. She discusses the dynamics between medics and runners, emphasizing the need for open communication and understanding. Natasha also reflects on her journey as a trail medic and the entrepreneurial path she has taken to support runners through self-care and education. Chapters 00:24 Introduction to Natasha Swartley  03:20 Military Background and Its Influence  06:23 The Journey to Becoming a Trail Medic  12:18 Optimism and Personal Growth  15:08 Trail Running Experience and Community  24:12 Mental Health and Overcoming Challenges  30:06 The Supportive Community of Ultra Running  32:22 Experiencing the Tahoe 200  37:48 Nutrition and Health Awareness  42:50 Trail Safety and Foot Care  46:27 Mental State and Decision Making in Races  52:44 Breaking the Stigma: Medics and Runners  54:08 Personal Experiences with Medics  01:01:23 The Role of Medics in Trail Running  01:03:41 Building a Business in Trail Medicine  01:12:34 Life Lessons from Military Service Send us Fan Mail Journey Running Links Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: Journey_Running Facebook: Journey_Running Tiktok: JourneyRunning Nourish Referral Link: https://www.usenourish.com/providers/stefan-schuster?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Stefan+Schuster&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Stefan_Schuster

In this episode of the Journey Running podcast, host Stefan Schuster interviews Jordan Wasson, the owner of Helios Laser Therapy. They discuss the benefits of laser therapy for ultra runners and athletes, including its effectiveness in treating soft tissue injuries and accelerating recovery. Jordan shares his personal journey into the field, the process of a typical laser therapy session, and the emerging research on laser therapy's applications for gut health and concussions. The conversation also touches on entrepreneurship in the health and wellness industry, offering insights and advice for aspiring professionals. Chapters 00:24 Introduction to Laser Therapy and Jordan's Journey 07:36 Understanding Laser Therapy: Mechanisms and Benefits 10:31 Laser Therapy for Runners: Success Stories and Applications 13:18 The Process of Laser Therapy: What to Expect 16:14 Exploring Laser Therapy Beyond Injuries: GI Health and Concussions 18:52 The Future of Laser Therapy: Research and Innovations 21:48 Entrepreneurship in Health: Jordan's Business Journey 24:39 Advice for Aspiring Health Professionals 27:26 Conclusion and Resources for Laser Therapy 35:19 Introduction to Trail and Ultra Running 35:48 Coaching and Nutrition for Runners Send us Fan Mail Journey Running Links Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: Journey_Running Facebook: Journey_Running Tiktok: JourneyRunning Nourish Referral Link: https://www.usenourish.com/providers/stefan-schuster?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Stefan+Schuster&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Stefan_Schuster

In this episode of the Journey Running Podcast, host Stefan Schuster discusses his personal goal of completing the Rocky Mountain Slam in 2026, a challenging series of four 100-mile races in the Rocky Mountains. He shares insights on the history of the slam, the races involved, and the unique challenges they present. Stefan also reflects on his motivations for pursuing this goal, including the thrill of ultra running and the beauty of the courses. Additionally, he provides guidance on planning a race schedule and explores other ultra running slams available for runners looking for new challenges. Chapters 00:24 Introduction to Journey Running Podcast 02:51 Understanding the Rocky Mountain Slam 09:28 Personal Goals and Motivation for the Slam 16:49 Planning the Race Schedule for 2026 24:42 Exploring Other Ultra Running Slams 29:48 Final Thoughts and Advice for Runners Send us Fan Mail Journey Running Links Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: Journey_Running Facebook: Journey_Running Tiktok: JourneyRunning Nourish Referral Link: https://www.usenourish.com/providers/stefan-schuster?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Stefan+Schuster&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Stefan_Schuster

In this episode of the Journey Running Podcast, host Stefan Schuster interviews his father, Craig Schuster, who shares his inspiring journey into running marathons and ultra marathons later in life. Craig discusses his motivations, training experiences, and the impact of charity on his running journey. The conversation covers various marathons, including the Marine Corps Marathon, New York Marathon, and Chicago Marathon, highlighting the challenges and triumphs faced along the way. He shares insights on training, pacing, and the emotional highs and lows of racing, including his first 50K. The discussion also touches on the importance of community, personal growth, and the lessons learned through running. Craig's candid reflections provide inspiration for both new and seasoned runners alike. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Craig Schuster 03:47 Athletic Journey: From Basketball to Running 08:24 Inspiration Behind Running: Family and Events 13:24 The Role of Charity in Running 19:12 Training for Endurance: Lessons Learned 24:38 Experiences from the Marine Corps Marathon 30:21 Reflections on the Journey and Future Goals 30:50 The Thrill of Race Day 32:24 Fundraising and Community Impact 33:46 Experiencing the New York Marathon 36:37 Challenges of the New York Course 37:12 Getting into Major Marathons 40:07 Lessons from the Chicago Marathon 42:06 Unfinished Business in Marathon Running 44:29 Transitioning to Trail Running 45:32 Pacing the 100-Mile Race 50:48 The Gift of Trail Running 53:32 Training for the Cayuga Trail Runs 54:54 Transitioning from Marathons to Trail Racing 57:13 The Experience of the 50K Race 59:33 Nutrition Strategies for Endurance Running 01:02:19 Comparing Trail Running on the East and West Coasts 01:05:52 Crewing at Western States: A Unique Perspective 01:09:44 Reflections on Running and Life Lessons 01:15:41 Defining Greatness in Running and Life 01:19:11 Keys to a Long-lasting Marriage Send us Fan Mail Journey Running Links Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: Journey_Running Facebook: Journey_Running Tiktok: JourneyRunning Nourish Referral Link: https://www.usenourish.com/providers/stefan-schuster?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Stefan+Schuster&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Stefan_Schuster

In this episode of the Journey Running Podcast, host Stefan Schuster provides an in-depth recap of his experience at the Western States 100, sharing insights on preparation, race day dynamics, nutrition strategies, and the challenges faced during the race. He emphasizes the importance of efficient aid stations, the role of crew support, and the mental aspects of tackling the canyons. Stefan also discusses his unique fueling plan and the significance of thermoregulation in hot conditions, offering valuable tips for future participants. In this conversation, Stefan Schuster shares his detailed experience of running the Western States 100, reflecting on his training, race strategy, and personal insights throughout the journey. He discusses the challenges faced during the race, including navigating the canyons, managing heat, and the importance of pacing and nutrition. The conversation culminates in his emotional finish, highlighting the significance of the event in his life and the journey leading up to it. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Journey Running Podcast 02:40 Recap of the Western States 100 Race 05:41 Preparation and Crew Dynamics 08:40 Race Day Experience and Start Line Insights 11:14 The Escarpment and Grand Chief Wilderness 14:16 Nutrition Strategy and Fueling Techniques 16:54 Aid Station Efficiency and Support 19:22 Thermoregulation and Managing Heat 22:22 Transitioning Through Key Sections 24:55 Climbs and Technical Terrain 27:28 The Canyons and Final Thoughts 34:39 Race Day Preparations and Crew Coordination 39:01 Navigating the Course: Early Miles and Strategy 48:20 The Canyons: Challenges and Strategies 01:01:41 Final Stretch: Pacing and Mental Resilience 01:09:21 Race Reflections and Mistakes 01:12:25 Navigating the Challenges of the Race 01:15:07 The Pressure of Performance 01:19:12 Transitioning to Night Running 01:23:10 The River Crossing Experience 01:25:43 Meeting the Legends of Ultra Running 01:33:20 The Final Stretch to the Finish 01:41:14 The Journey to Western States Send us Fan Mail Journey Running Links Website: JourneyRunCoaching.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: Journey_Running Facebook: Journey_Running Tiktok: JourneyRunning Nourish Referral Link: https://www.usenourish.com/providers/stefan-schuster?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Stefan+Schuster&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Stefan_Schuster