• How busy runners can use December to set up for success in 2026.
    Dec 3 2025

    On this episode Scott shares 5 ideas to get the most out of your December to hit the ground running in January. Some are great reminders and a couple may be new to you. In any case, we think you'll be able to take one or two things away from this episode to enjoy the start of the new year! Thanks for listening.

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    12 mins
  • Race Spotlight: Standhope Ultra Challenge [Idaho Mountains]
    Nov 20 2025

    In this episode of Becoming Ultra, host Scott Jones speaks with Mary Martin, the race director of the Stand Hope Ultra Challenge. They discuss Mary's journey from the East Coast to Idaho, her involvement in the ultra running community, and the challenges of organizing ultra marathons. They talk about the unique aspects of the races, including elevation gains, course navigation, and the importance of community and volunteers. Mary shares insights on the growth of the race, safety measures, and the local culture surrounding Ketchum, Idaho including a crazy weekend Scott spent at Rebecca's Prvate Idaho mountain biking event. We hope you enjoy the new episode!

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Mary Martin and Stand Hope Ultra Challenge
    03:30 Moving to Idaho: Embracing the Outdoors
    06:25 Mary's Journey into Ultra Running
    08:24 Understanding the Ultra Running Community
    10:29 Experiences in Ketchum and the Ultra Culture
    13:45 Race Details: Elevation and Course Challenges
    16:24 The 100-Mile Race: Growth and Challenges
    19:07 Community and Participation in Races
    20:42 Transitioning Leadership: Mary Takes Over
    23:22 Safety and Navigation in the Mountains
    24:00 Accommodations and Local Culture
    26:29 Post-Race Celebrations and Community Engagement
    26:54 Registration and Volunteer Opportunities
    29:43 Future Plans and Changes for the Race
    32:32 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement

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    42 mins
  • Took a little long at the aid station!
    Nov 12 2025

    Becoming Ultra is back after a little 4 month hiatus! Scott hops on to share what's been going on and what to look forward to with BU. The lessons from running far transend to podcasting, business, and more and we hope to continue to inspire and educate more people to get out there and do hard, epic things!

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    13 mins
  • Race Director Ken Krogsrud of the Lost Sierra Endurance Race
    Jun 27 2025

    In this episode of Becoming Ultra, Scott discusses with Ken Krogsrud, the race director of the Lost Sierra ultra in Downeyville, California. Ken shares his journey into ultra running, the challenges and successes of organizing the race, and the unique terrain and community involvement that make this event special. They also discuss race strategies for first-timers, post-race activities, and the philosophy behind Ken's Bad Luck Run Club, which aims to create a fun and inclusive atmosphere for runners of all levels.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Ken Krogsrud and His Journey
    02:44 The Lost Sierra Race Experience
    05:28 Trail and Elevation Insights
    08:02 Feedback and Improvements from Last Year
    10:49 Race Logistics and Community Support
    13:44 Race Strategies for First Timers
    16:16 Post-Race Activities and Local Attractions
    19:06 Bad Luck Run Club and Its Vibe
    22:09 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

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    29 mins
  • Adam Ludwin on the power of breath for performance!
    May 16 2025

    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

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    52 mins
  • Season 16:30 Denise becomes an ultra runner in Mendocino!
    May 14 2025

    On this episode Denise shares her transformative experience running the Mendocino Coast Ultra. From her initial impressions of the beautiful coastal town to the challenges faced during the race, Denise recounts her journey.

    With insights from her coach Addie Bracey, the conversation highlights the importance of consistency, overcoming physical obstacles, and the emotional highs and lows of ultra running. Denise's story serves as an inspiration for anyone considering taking on such a challenge, emphasizing that the journey is just as important as the finish line.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Journey
    02:00 Exploring the Mendocino Coast
    04:50 Race Day Experience
    10:12 Overcoming Challenges During the Race
    13:58 Crossing the Finish Line
    17:52 Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations

    Run with us!

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    22 mins
  • Henry Abbott and the new science of injury free sport!
    May 9 2025

    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

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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • Jennifer Conroyd of Fluid Running: Staying fit through injury.
    May 3 2025

    Today Scot interviews Jennifer Conroyd, the founder of Fluid Running, about her journey into the world of aqua jogging and how it can help runners maintain their fitness while recovering from injuries.

    Jennifer shares her personal story of training for a marathon while injured, the science behind deep water running, and the importance of engagement in workouts. They discuss common running injuries and how aqua jogging can be a beneficial alternative for maintaining fitness. Jennifer also shares success stories from users of Fluid Running, including an ultra runner who overcame a stress fracture. Enjoy the show!

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Fluid Running and Jennifer Conroyd
    02:56 Jennifer's Journey to Fluid Running
    05:50 The Science Behind Aqua Jogging
    09:00 Engagement and Motivation in Aqua Jogging Workouts
    12:07 Common Running Injuries and Aqua Jogging Benefits
    14:52 Success Stories: Greg's Journey with Fluid Running
    17:59 Conclusion and Special Offer

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    28 mins