Phred is Back, BIGTIME and he finally reels in his "white whale" guest longtime friend and ultrarunning enigma Steven Tursi. Steven and Phred blab about running streaks, hashing adventures, body image, and a lifelong evolution of what it means to be a runner and a friend. Was Steve the original Johnny Appleseed for Cultra? Enjoy this fabulous Bootleg Cultra (Think Grateful Dead Barton Hall, Cornell University, May 8, 1977)
Episode Highlights:
Running Streaks and Ultramarathons
- Steven shares insights into his nearly 15-year daily running streak (over 5,200 days!)—and the debates surrounding the "continuous mile" rule.
- Fred and Steven unpack the motivations, sunk cost psychology, and mental games behind long streaks.
- Recap of Steven's recent race at altitude in the Great Divide 100, and how Colorado elevation humbled him despite living at 5,300 feet.
Hashing Culture 101
- What exactly is hashing? Steven breaks down the beer-fueled, trail-marked tradition of this global, irreverent running subculture.
- Stories about hash names (spoiler: "Hot Schweddy Balls"), flour trail controversies, beer stops, and inclusivity in the hashing world.
On Body Image and Identity
- Steven gets candid about his weight, body perception, and running while heavier than most—highlighting his incredible feat of running a sub-24-hour 100-miler at ~275 lbs.
Friendship in Adulthood
- A heartfelt and humorous discussion about how men form (and define) friendships as adults.
- Fred and Steven reflect on their 15+ year bond, running together at events like Ancient Oaks, TGNY, and Umstead, and how group chats now serve as lifelines for long-distance friendships.
The Shift to Journey Runs
- Steven talks about moving away from racing for results and leaning into slower, more meaningful runs—including a planned 50-mile adventure on the Colorado Trail for his 50th birthday.
- Memories of the Four Pass Loop, the Manitou Incline "stunt hike," and past multi-day efforts like Milwaukee to Chicago.
Bonus Nuggets
- Why Steven ran a 24-hour race just to bail at 20 miles and watch football.
- How rocket launches, mistaken finishes, and sandbagging for friendship make ultra memories.
- Reflections on The Fair, Starbucks runs after Rocky's, and the joy of repeat traditions.
Tune In If You Like:
- Not listening to AFB!
- The human side of ultra running
- Thoughtful conversations on consistency, identity, and connection
- A couple of old friends talking about life, beer, streaks, and everything in between
Referenced Events & Topics:
Palmer Lake Ultra • Ancient Oaks • Umstead 100 • TGNY • Great Divide 100K • Manitou Incline • Colorado Trail • Hash House Harriers • Running Streaks • Journey Runs • Four Pass Loop • Sub-24 100-milers • Group chats & friendship
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Outro music by Nick Byram
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