This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the one and only Michael Wardian, an endurance athlete who's not just a runner, he's a legend. He holds multiple FKT's and American Records.
Michael takes us on his incredible journey, from his early days hitting the pavement to becoming a record-breaking ultra marathoner. We'll dive into his experiences at iconic races like the Boston Marathon, the brutal Badwater, and the historic JFK 50.
But it's not just about the races. Michael shares his thoughts on the power of community, the science of nutrition, and the dedication it takes to push the limits of human endurance. And yes, we even talk about running in costumes (because why not?!).
From conquering the Appalachian Trail to dreaming of running in space, Michael's story is one of adventure, inspiration, and a deep love for the running community. It's a reminder that running is about more than just personal achievement; it's about connecting with others and inspiring those around you.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Michael Wardian
01:01 Michael's Journey into Running
04:02 The Boston Marathon Experience
05:18 Running in Costumes: Fun and Challenges
09:28 Lessons from the Appalachian Trail
11:44 Survival in Endurance Events
13:07 Training Plans and Coaching Insights
17:52 Nutrition and Stomach Training
18:50 The Roller Coaster of Ultras
23:20 Community in Endurance Racing
25:15 The Challenge of Endurance Racing
29:23 Transitioning from Marathons to Ultras
34:11 The Journey to JFK 50 and Beyond
38:23 The Impact of Marathon Training on Ultra Performance
43:43 Experiences at Badwater and Beyond
49:46 The Importance of Community in Ultra Running
52:45 Reframing Competition and Personal Growth
56:12 The Journey of the Appalachian Trail
58:07 Running Across America for a Cause
01:06:42 Experiencing the Run: From San Francisco to Ocean City
01:10:43 Inspiring Others Through Running
01:17:36 The Essence of Running: A Personal Reflection
01:18:41 Celebrating Achievements and Records
01:19:39 Race Experiences and Community Support
01:21:41 Exploring Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
01:25:11 Innovative Running Adventures
01:28:37 Transitioning to New Challenges: Rowing and Beyond
01:32:55 The Journey of Endurance and Personal Growth
01:40:17 Introduction to Ultra Running and Records
01:41:14 Celebrating Achievements in Running
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