“For us is the life of action….let us rather run the risk of wearing out than rusting out.” Theodore Roosevelt

This is the 2 episode of a 3-part series, we dive into Ryan Holiday's powerful book, The Obstacle is the Way: The Ancient Art of Turning Adversity to Advantage. Holiday, an expert on Stoicism, outlines three essential steps to overcoming challenges—Perception, Action, and Will. In this episode, we focus on Action, essential for overcoming adversity

We are joined in this series by frequent Nation guest, Coach Adam Kimble. We talk about the critical role of action in overcoming life’s challenges, emphasizing the idea that deliberate action, rather than passive reaction, is key to growth. The discussion highlights how failure is not something to be feared but rather an essential part of the learning process, helping to clarify the path forward. We draw parallels between ultra running and everyday life, showing how perseverance and resilience are cultivated through a process-oriented approach. We also discuss cultural perceptions of failure, the need to reframe obstacles as opportunities for growth, and stress the importance of community in supporting personal development.

Learn more about Coach Adam Kimble HERE

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Amazfit - get 15% off their new T-Rex 3
• Field of Greens: use code TRAILRUNNER for 15% off
• Air Doctor: use code TRAILRUNNER for up to $300 off air purifiers
• Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

In this episode, Dr. Phil Maffetone takes a comprehensive look at stress management, breaking it down into physical, biochemical, and mental/emotional categories. He shares practical strategies for addressing common stressors, from eliminating physical stress like ill-fitting shoes to managing biochemical stress through diet and reducing inflammation.

Dr. Phil shares his personal experiences as a songwriter and stand-up comedian, highlighting how creative outlets like music and comedy can help reduce stress. He emphasizes the importance of balancing positive and negative stress, with exercise playing a key role in stress management. Tools like heart rate monitors can serve as biofeedback for stress control, reminding us that everyone’s stress response is unique.

Learn more by watching these clips:
- Dr. Phil's Birthday Video
- The MAF Method
- Dr. Phil's music
- Dr. Phil's website

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Ketone IQ
• Amazfit - get 15% off their new T-Rex 3
• Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

What happens when a love for the outdoors leads to launching an outdoor gear company and then running your first ultra-marathon?

In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we’re joined by Tayson Whittaker, founder and CEO of Outdoor Vitals, to dive into the world of fastpacking, trail running, and backpacking. Tayson shares his inspiring journey of launching Outdoor Vitals, a company committed to providing high-quality outdoor gear. He reflects on his love for exploring remote areas, disconnecting from the digital world, and how his passion for backpacking evolved into a desire to push his limits through trail running.

We also explore Tayson's transition into ultra running, including the challenges he faced in his first 75K race, his experience pacing at the Moab 240, and how these trials sparked his goal of completing a 100-mile race. Throughout the conversation, Tayson emphasizes the importance of building confidence through experience, using the right gear, and embracing the mental and emotional benefits of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a runner, backpacker, or fastpacker, this episode is packed with insights on stepping out of your comfort zone and growing through new challenges in the wilderness.

• Watch Tayson talk about his 10 year journey with Outdoor Vitals
• Tayson's documentary of his first 100-mile completion
• Follow Outdoor Vitals on Instagram, Facebook, X, and YouTube
• Check out their podcast, LiveUltraLight

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• True Nutrition
• Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app
• Amazfit - get 15% off their new T-Rex 3 ⤵️