At just 22 years old, Nicholas Steel is attempting to become the youngest person to complete sixteen 100-mile races in a single year—all while working full-time. In this episode, Nicholas shares what drives him to chase such an audacious goal, from his first marathon a little over a year ago to a solo Backyard Ultra and beyond. He opens up about the mental resilience it takes to keep showing up, the role of community and technology in his training, and how he balances recovery, work, and high-mileage weeks. With a “golden retriever mindset” and a deep love for nature, Nicholas reflects on the joys and challenges of ultra-running. He also offers practical advice on gear, chafing, training surfaces, and pushing through failure. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just getting started, Nicholas’s story is a refreshing reminder of what’s possible with passion and grit.

Follow Nicholas' journey on Instagram and YouTube

Episode Sponsors:

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In this episode, ultra-endurance athlete Lucja Leonard recounts her transformative experience running the Arizona Monster 300, a race that pushed her beyond her limits. She talks about her essential strategies for success in ultra-running, including the importance of sleep, hydration, nutrition, and terrain research. Lucja highlights how positive self-talk, mental resilience, and a supportive community played key roles in overcoming physical and emotional challenges. Her journey from a non-athlete to a seasoned ultra-runner offers inspiration and practical insights for anyone facing extreme endurance events. The episode also explores recovery as a vital skill, the inevitability of problem-solving, and how embracing discomfort fuels personal growth. Lucja’s story is a testament to the mindset and preparation required for ultra-endurance success.

Links to learn more about Lucja:

• Running Dutchie - coaching, speaking, etc
• Finding Gobi
• EP 706: Running Through Adversity to Find Joy - Episode with Lucja's husband, Dion and their dog, Gobi.

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Peluva, 15% off with code TRAILRUNNER
• Liquid IV, get 20% off your first order with code TRAILRUNNER
• Wonderful Pistachios
• Oikos Triple Zero
• FREE! Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we explore the gritty world of endurance sports with ultrarunner and guest Shannon Hogan, author of The Unforgiving Hours: the Grit, Resilience, and Perseverance at the Heart of Endurance Sports. The conversation weaves through incredible feats like the Boston Double—an underground marathon challenge—and the icy realm of cold water swimming, examining the physical and mental resilience these sports demand. Shannon shares powerful stories from her book, reminding us that endurance is less about podiums and more about perseverance, preparation, and inner drive. They highlight the deeply personal nature of endurance, the role of community support, and the importance of capturing these stories to honor the athletes who quietly push human limits. From ice swims to last-second finishes, this episode celebrates the toughness and inspiration found in every athlete’s journey.

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Ketone IQ, Get 30% off your first subscription order
• Tifosi Optics 20% off with code TRN
• UCAN, click on the link to claim the exclusive offer and save 20% on your entire order with code TRN
• Oikos Triple Zero
• FREE! Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app