Pushing Horizons Step by Step

Elite trail runner Caitlin Fielder joins Pushing Horizons to share her journey from marine science student and artist to competing against the best trail runners in the world. We talk about starting running later than most elite athletes, recovering from major hip surgery, finding success at races like OCC , Tarawera , Zegama , and Western States , and why patience has become one of her greatest strengths. Caitlin also opens up about racing through adversity, balancing life as a professional athlete, handling expectations, and why success means more than podium finishes. Whether you're training for your first ultra or chasing your biggest running goals, this conversation is packed with insights about resilience, perspective, and running with purpose. Topics Covered Starting trail running later in life Hip surgery and injury recovery Western States 100 experience UTMB OCC and international racing Tarawera Ultramarathon Zegama Marathon Elite athlete mindset Training and recovery Patience and long-term development Success beyond results Running and creativity Professional trail running Keywords Caitlin Fielder, trail running, ultrarunning, ultra marathon, Western States 100, Western States Endurance Run, UTMB, OCC, Tarawera Ultramarathon, Zegama Marathon, elite trail runner, women in ultrarunning, ultramarathon podcast, endurance sports, trail running motivation, injury recovery, running mindset, mountain running, ultrarunner interview, New Zealand trail runner, Pushing Horizons podcast, running with purpose, trail runner, endurance athlete

Season 3 Episode 20 The Joy of Hard Things Kat Edwards Anderson has raced some of the toughest ultramarathons in the world, including Cocodona 250, Moab 240, Sedona Canyons 125, Kodiak 100M by UTMB, and Massanutten 100. But this conversation isn't just about running farther. It's about purpose, resilience, faith, embracing discomfort, and discovering what you're truly capable of when life becomes difficult. We discuss her journey from quitting running after high school to becoming one of the rising names in ultrarunning, what 250-mile races teach you about yourself, dealing with sleep deprivation and hallucinations, overcoming mistakes, training for extreme endurance events, and why the hardest challenges often become the most rewarding experiences. Whether you're training for your first ultramarathon, chasing a marathon PR, or simply looking for motivation to tackle life's biggest challenges, this episode is packed with honest lessons from someone who continues to push beyond her own limits. Keywords: ultrarunning, ultramarathon, trail running, Cocodona 250, Moab 240, Kate Edwards, endurance athlete, 200 mile race, 100 mile race, mountain running, ultrarunner, endurance mindset, resilience, mental toughness, running podcast, trail runner, endurance sports, ultramarathon training, Pushing Horizons, endurance inspiration

Season 3 Episode 19 Built for the Long Game DJ Fox has become one of the most respected endurance athletes in ultrarunning. After winning World's Toughest Mudder, setting the Colorado Trail West-to-East Fastest Known Time (FKT), and finishing on the podium at Cocodona 250 in 2026, DJ joins Pushing Horizons to share the mindset behind his success. We discuss his life-changing illness that led him to running, leaving a secure corporate career to chase endurance sports full-time, winning a world championship, surviving multi-day adventures, and the lessons learned from running one of the toughest ultramarathons in the world. DJ also breaks down his 10-hour improvement at Cocodona 250, the importance of crew and pacers, overcoming setbacks, and why he believes success comes from committing to the process rather than chasing outcomes. If you're training for an ultramarathon, marathon, trail race, or simply looking to build resilience and discipline, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiration. Keywords: DJ Fox, Cocodona 250, ultrarunning podcast, trail running, ultramarathon, endurance athlete, World's Toughest Mudder, Colorado Trail FKT, Cocodona 250 podium, ultra endurance, endurance mindset, running podcast, trail running podcast, endurance coaching, 200 mile race, mountain running, adventure running, resilience, mental toughness, Pushing Horizons.

Season 3 Episode 18: Finding Purpose Beyond the Finish Line What happens when something that defines you comes to an end? After an incredible 1,202-day running streak , James McDonald made one of the hardest decisions of his life: to stop running every day. In this episode, James opens up about ending the streak, recovering from injury, finding his identity beyond consistency, completing his first 100-mile ultramarathon, and dealing with the disappointment of a recent DNF. We also dive into ultramarathon training, fueling strategies, recovery, coaching, race planning, mental resilience, and why enjoying the process matters more than chasing finish lines. Whether you're training for your first marathon, an ultramarathon, or simply trying to stay consistent in life, this conversation offers valuable lessons on discipline, balance, setbacks, and long-term growth. Topics covered: 1,202-day running streak Why he chose to end it Identity beyond running First 100-mile ultramarathon Learning from a DNF Ultrarunning mindset Recovery and injury prevention Marathon and ultra training Nutrition and race fueling Mental resilience and consistency If you enjoy conversations about ultrarunning, endurance sports, marathon training, resilience, mindset, and pushing your limits, subscribe and follow Pushing Horizons: Step by Step for a new episode every week. Keywords: ultrarunning, ultramarathon, 100 mile race, 100 mile ultramarathon, running streak, 1202 day running streak, marathon training, ultramarathon training, endurance running, trail running, running podcast, ultrarunning podcast, endurance podcast, running motivation, mental resilience, consistency, discipline, DNF, overcoming failure, recovery, injury prevention, race nutrition, race fueling, endurance mindset, first 100 miler, Thames Path 100, MK24, James McDonald, Pushing Horizons, Pushing Horizons Podcast, marathon runner, endurance athlete, long distance running, running community, running inspiration, ultra runner interview, mental toughness, sports podcast, trail runner, adventure running

A year can change everything. The last time Cody Poskin was on the podcast, he had just finished his first Cocodona 250. He crossed the finish line in 8th place after battling blown quads, brutal climbs, and the biggest challenge of his running career. This year, he came back. 🥈 2nd Male 🥉 3rd Overall More importantly, he finished 13 hours faster . In this episode, Cody breaks down exactly what changed—from smarter training and race execution to sleep strategy, nutrition, crew support, and the mindset required to compete at the very front of one of the toughest ultramarathons in the world. We also talk about learning from failure, becoming a professional athlete, chasing the Cocodona title, and why he's convinced his best race is still ahead of him. If you love ultrarunning, endurance sports, or simply hearing what it takes to become better year after year, this episode is for you. Topics covered: Cocodona 250 race recap How Cody improved by 13 hours 2nd Male & 3rd Overall finish Sleep strategy and pacing Nutrition mistakes and lessons Crew and pacers Mental resilience Becoming a professional ultrarunner What's next after Cocodona Keywords: Cocodona 250, ultrarunning, ultramarathon, trail running, endurance running, 250 mile race, Cocodona podcast, Cody Poskin, running podcast, ultra endurance, race strategy, trail runner, endurance mindset, mountain running, long distance running.

In Season 3 Episode 16 of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, Ash sits down with Nepali ultrarunner Jeevan Lama to explore his incredible journey from the trails of Nepal to some of the world’s toughest mountain ultras. Jeevan shares how running helped transform his life, keeping him away from destructive habits and giving him purpose through the mountains. The conversation dives into his experience racing UTMB events, the brutal technical terrain of the Alps, and his unforgettable battle at Tor des Géants (TOR), a 330km ultra through the Italian Alps. They discuss suffering, race strategy, nutrition, mental resilience, and what it means to represent Nepal on the global trail running stage. Jeevan also shares his vision for growing trail running in Nepal and inspiring the next generation of mountain athletes. Keywords: Jeevan Lama, Tor des Géants, TOR, UTMB, ultrarunning, trail running, Nepal trail running, mountain running, endurance sports, ultra marathon podcast, Pushing Horizons

In Season 3 Episode 15 of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step , Ash sits down with Peyton for an honest conversation about injuries, setbacks, marathon struggles, and the mindset required to keep moving forward. Peyton shares how her running journey began, the transition from shorter distances to long-distance racing, and the lessons she learned through recurring injuries and burnout. She opens up about the emotional side of being sidelined, the pressure of chasing personal records, and why sometimes the hardest part of running isn’t the miles — it’s staying mentally strong when things go wrong. They also discuss half marathon and marathon training, endurance building, fueling strategies, avoiding the dreaded marathon bonk, and why consistency matters more than perfection. This episode is for every runner who has ever struggled, doubted themselves, or wondered if setbacks were holding them back. Topics covered: Running motivation, marathon training, half marathon PR goals, injury recovery, mental health, endurance, race fueling, bonking, consistency, discipline, resilience, runner mindset. Keywords : running podcast, marathon training, half marathon training, half marathon PR, marathon mindset, injury recovery, running injuries, endurance training, race fueling, marathon bonking, mental toughness, running motivation, runner mindset, consistency in training, long distance running, overcoming setbacks, resilience, road running, running community, Pushing Horizons podcast

In Season 3 Episode 14 of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, Ash sits down with ultrarunner Kaylee Frederick for a powerful conversation about endurance, discipline, mental resilience, and chasing seemingly impossible goals. At just 21 years old, Kaylee has already built an extraordinary ultrarunning resume. She ran her first ultra at 14, completed her first 100 miler at 16, and became the youngest athlete to start Badwater 135, one of the toughest ultramarathons in the world. In this episode, Kaylee opens up about her journey into ultrarunning, the brutal physical and mental demands of Badwater 135, elite 24-hour racing, race strategy, pacing, fueling, and the discipline required to perform at the highest level. But this conversation goes deeper than race results. Kaylee also shares her struggles with self-worth, identity, mental health, therapy, and the difficult process of learning that performance does not define who you are. This is a raw and inspiring episode about human potential, suffering, growth, and what it truly means to keep moving forward when things get hard. Topics covered: • Ultrarunning • Badwater 135 • 24-hour racing • Endurance mindset • Mental toughness • Race strategy & fueling • Discipline vs motivation • Mental health in sport • Identity beyond performance Keywords: ultrarunning podcast, Badwater 135, Kaylee Frederick, ultramarathon, 100 mile race, 24 hour race, endurance athlete, mental resilience, running motivation, trail running podcast, ultra running mindset, endurance sports, Pushing Horizons podcast

What happens when a powerlifter decides to run 200 miles? In Season 3 Episode 13 of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step , Ash sits down with Grace Gilliam / Wakaii Chahatngan Tukon to explore a journey built on resilience, discipline, and relentless self-belief. From growing up in a remote village with no cars or electricity, to becoming a Spartan racer, GORUCK athlete, powerlifter, and Mammoth 200 Endurance Run finisher , her story is extraordinary. They talk about: Finishing Mammoth 200 while battling severe asthma Combining heavy lifting with ultrarunning Why strength training matters for endurance athletes Mental toughness during extreme suffering Learning to move with purpose through life’s obstacles This is a conversation about choosing hard things and discovering what you’re truly capable of. Keywords ultrarunning, Mammoth 200, endurance sports, powerlifting, Spartan Race, GORUCK, mental toughness, trail running, resilience, 200 mile race, ultramarathon podcast, running motivation, strength training for runners

Timothy Bass returns to the podcast after completing one of the most demanding goals he has ever set for himself, running 5,111 miles in a single year . In this episode, we look back at the physical and mental challenges of maintaining 100-mile weeks, what it took to stay consistent without a single rest day, and the lessons he learned about discipline, recovery, family, and identity. We talk about the difference between motivation and drive, why consistency matters more than perfection, and how running continues to shape him as a father, husband, and human being. This is a powerful conversation about commitment, resilience, and what happens when you choose to keep going long after the excitement fades. Keywords: running podcast, long distance running, marathon training, ultrarunning mindset, discipline, consistency, mental resilience, fatherhood, endurance sports, Timothy Bass

What does it take to keep showing up for decades? In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, Ash sits down with ultrarunner Junko Kazukawa, a breast cancer survivor, coach, and one of the most experienced endurance athletes in the sport. From completing Leadville 100 ten times to racing UTMB, Western States, and Tor des Géants, Junko has spent years pushing her physical and mental limits. But her story goes far beyond race results. We talk about overcoming cancer, finding purpose through endurance, dealing with DNFs, aging in sport, the difference between pain and suffering, and why she continues to chase finish lines at 62 years old. This episode is a masterclass in resilience, perspective, and the mindset required to keep moving forward when life gets difficult. Discovering ultrarunning after cancer Leadville 100 and racing 100-mile ultras UTMB and lessons from failure The psychology of suffering Aging and longevity in endurance sports Training smarter for long-term success Why purpose matters more than motivation What keeps her running after decades in the sport ultrarunning, endurance sports, Leadville 100, UTMB, Western States, Tor des Géants, breast cancer survivor, running podcast, ultramarathon, trail running, resilience, mindset, endurance athlete, women in ultrarunning, aging athletes, ultrarunner interview, long distance running, running motivation, endurance mindset, Pushing Horizons Topics CoveredKeywords

What does it take to stay competitive after more than two decades in the sport? In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step, Ash sits down with elite ultrarunner Addie Bracy to discuss longevity, adaptation, setbacks, and the constant pursuit of improvement. From her early days in running to competing at some of the biggest ultramarathons in the world, Addie shares lessons learned from both success and disappointment. We dive into aging as an athlete, burnout, confidence, race-day execution, coaching, fueling, mental resilience, and why curiosity remains one of her greatest strengths after 25 years in the sport. This conversation is a reminder that growth doesn't stop when you reach the top. Sometimes the challenge is learning how to keep evolving. Topics Covered: Ultrarunning longevity Western States and elite competition Aging in endurance sports Mental resilience during tough races Fueling and race execution Coaching and athlete development Learning from bad races Staying motivated after decades of running Adaptation and continuous improvement The future of ultrarunning Keywords: ultrarunning, trail running, Addie Bracy, Western States 100, endurance sports, ultra marathon, trail runner, running podcast, endurance mindset, ultramarathon training, coaching runners, female ultrarunner, running longevity, 100 mile race, trail running community, Pushing Horizons Podcast

What does it take to balance elite ultrarunning with motherhood? In this episode, I sit down with Careth Arnold, one of the top-ranked ultrarunners in the United States, to talk about her journey from a recreational runner and mother of two to competing at some of the biggest trail and ultramarathon races in the world. We discuss her rapid rise in the sport, 100-mile racing, Western States, TDS, Hardrock, training while raising young children, overcoming setbacks, dealing with DNFs, race nutrition struggles, and the mindset required to keep showing up when things don't go as planned. Careth shares why every race is just another brick in the wall she's building, what success means to her, and how motherhood has shaped her approach to endurance and life. Whether you're an ultrarunner, trail runner, parent, or someone chasing ambitious goals, this conversation is packed with lessons about resilience, consistency, and pushing beyond perceived limits. Ultrarunning and motherhood 100-mile races Western States 100 TDS by UTMB Hardrock 100 Trail running mindset Dealing with failure and DNFs Nutrition challenges in ultras Training while raising children Endurance, resilience, and growth Careth Arnold, ultrarunning, trail running, ultramarathon, 100 mile race, Hardrock 100, Western States 100, TDS UTMB, motherhood, women in sport, endurance athlete, trail runner podcast, running podcast, ultrarunner interview, mountain running, endurance mindset, ultra trail running, female ultrarunner, running motivation, Pushing Horizons Podcast Topics Covered:Keywords

In Season 3 Episode 8 of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step , Ash sits down with ultra runner and former Royal Marines Commando Charlie Shelbourne for a deep conversation about endurance, suffering, and pushing human limits. From completing Marathon des Sables in the Sahara Desert to taking on the brutal Dragon’s Back Race across Wales and the Arc of Attrition 100 mile race by UTMB, Charlie shares the highs, the failures, the mistakes, and the mindset behind ultra endurance racing. This episode covers: Marathon des Sables 2024 Dragon’s Back Race 2024 Arc of Attrition 100 by UTMB Ultra Trail Snowdonia 100K Ultra running mindset Military discipline and endurance Fueling mistakes and race nutrition Running through the night Sleep deprivation and hallucinations Mountain running and elevation training The psychology of endurance sports If you enjoy conversations about ultra marathons, trail running, endurance mindset, and adventure racing, this episode is packed with honest insight and real experience from the pain cave. Keywords: ultra running podcast, ultramarathon podcast, Marathon des Sables, Dragon’s Back Race, Arc of Attrition, UTMB, trail running podcast, endurance sports, mountain ultras, 100 miler, endurance mindset, ultra runner interview, adventure racing, running motivation, ultra marathon training.

What does it take to keep showing up at the edge of human possibility? In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step , Ash sits down with John Kelly, Barkley Marathons finisher, endurance athlete, data scientist, and one of the most thoughtful minds in ultra running. From the psychological challenge of Barkley to the loneliness of multi-day races, John opens up about failure, resilience, discomfort, uncertainty, and why hard things still matter in a world built around convenience. We also dive into: The mental side of ultra running Learning through DNFs and setbacks Barkley Marathons preparation and strategy Data vs instinct in endurance sports Appalachian Trail FKT attempt The difference between pain and danger Why suffering can create growth Comfort culture and modern life Motivation, limits, and human potential This is more than a running conversation. It’s about understanding yourself when things get hard. 🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube. #ultrarunning #barkleymarathons #trailrunning #endurance #podcast #runningpodcast #ultramarathon #johnkelly #mindset #runningmotivation #endurancesports #pushinghorizons #pushinghorizonsstepbystep #pushinghorizonspodcast #podcastforrunners

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step , ultra runner and Merrell athlete Mercedes Siegle-Gaither joins the podcast to talk about ultra running, 100 mile races, trail running mindset, endurance training, and the mental side of ultramarathons. We discuss: 50 mile vs 100 mile racing ultra marathon mindset technical mountain running DNF lessons fueling and hydration mistakes HRV, recovery, and training data women in ultra running pressure in competitive trail races Leadville 100 and Hurt 100 preparing for Arc of Attrition overcoming self doubt in endurance sports Mercedes shares honest insights into racing difficult ultras, handling setbacks, and learning what it takes to keep going during long endurance events. If you enjoy conversations about trail running, ultramarathons, endurance sports, mindset, and long distance racing, this episode is for you. #ultrarunning #trailrunning #ultramarathon #100miler #endurancesports #runningpodcast #mountainrunning #trailrunner #leadville100 #hurt100 #pushinghorizons #pushinghorizonsstepbystep #pushinghorizonspodcast #podcastforrunners

What does it take to go from self-doubt to self-belief? In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step , we dive into the real journey behind ultrarunning: not the podiums, not the highlight reels, but the internal shift that happens when you stop asking “Can I?” and start saying “Let’s see.” This conversation explores the mental battles, DNFs, emotional moments, and personal growth that come with pushing beyond limits. It’s about embracing discomfort, learning from failure, and discovering who you become on the other side of the miles. If you’ve ever doubted yourself, struggled to stay consistent, or wondered what you’re truly capable of, this episode is for you. Keywords: ultrarunning, endurance mindset, running podcast, mental toughness, ultramarathon training, overcoming doubt, running motivation, endurance sports, trail running, personal growth, pain cave, running journey, resilience, long distance running, pushing limits

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step , Ash sits down with Roger, CEO of SQUEEZY Nutrition and one of the pioneers of endurance fueling in Europe, to break down the fundamentals of fueling for performance. Roger shares over 30 years of experience in sports nutrition, starting from introducing energy gels in Germany in the early 1990s to working with athletes across endurance disciplines today. This conversation focuses on the basics most runners overlook, how the body actually produces energy, why fueling matters, and the common mistakes that lead to fatigue, bonking, and poor performance. If you’ve ever wondered how much you should eat during a run, why energy crashes happen, or how to build a proper fueling strategy, this episode gives you a clear and practical starting point. Topics covered: Energy systems explained (glycogen vs fat) Why fueling is essential for endurance performance How many carbs you actually need Common fueling mistakes runners make Why copying others doesn’t work The importance of individualized fueling This is Part 1 of a deeper series on endurance fueling. Keywords: endurance fueling, running nutrition, marathon fueling strategy, ultra running nutrition, glycogen depletion, bonking, carbs per hour, hydration for runners, sports nutrition basics, fueling mistakes runners make, SQUEEZY nutrition, energy gels history

In this episode of Pushing Horizons: Step by Step , I sit down with Nicole Linke: an ultrarunner who returned to running after 8 years away and went from self-doubt to completing some of the toughest endurance races out there. From her first 61K in 2021 to conquering 100 milers, 24-hour races, backyard ultras, and the brutal CCC at UTMB, Nicole’s journey is raw, honest, and powerful. We talk about fear, resilience, eating disorders, self-belief, and what it really takes to push past your limits. This is not a story about instant confidence. It’s about showing up anyway. If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re capable: this one hits hard. Keywords: ultrarunning, Nicole Linke, CCC UTMB, backyard ultra, 100 miler, endurance mindset, trail running, ultra marathon training, mental strength, running podcast, resilience, German ultrarunner, long distance running, pushing limits

After winning Moab 200 , setting a new Triple Crown overall time record , and completing one of the most brutal challenges in ultrarunning, Kilian Korth returns to the podcast. In this episode, we go beyond the headlines. We break down what it actually took to execute across Tahoe 200, Bigfoot 200, and Moab 200 , how strategy shifted under pressure, and what changed mentally once “delusional self-belief” became undeniable proof. We talk about: The reality of racing Moab in extreme conditions Chasing a record vs chasing execution The cost of stacking 200-mile races in one season The moment everything changed after crossing the finish line Sudden growth, attention, and becoming a full-time athlete Why success didn’t feel like an ending This is not just about winning. It’s about what happens after you prove yourself right. Keywords ultrarunning, Moab 200, Tahoe 200, Bigfoot 200, Triple Crown ultrarunning, endurance mindset, ultra marathon podcast, Cocodona 250, trail running, endurance athlete mindset, running podcast, long distance running, ultramarathon training, mental toughness