Jesse Ellis of Let's Wonder Productions pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to build a media brand in the ultra running world. From scrappy beginnings to a full-fledged live streaming operation, Jesse walks through the evolution of Let's Wonder Productions — how it started, what shaped it, and where it's headed. He digs into the unique challenges of live streaming ultra races: unpredictable terrain, remote locations, and the logistical puzzle of keeping a production running when athletes are racing through the night for 24+ hours. Jesse shares what he's learned about keeping audiences engaged across those long windows, and how storytelling becomes just as important as the technical setup. Looking ahead, Jesse teases upcoming tech innovations that could change how race coverage is produced and consumed, along with new strategies for expanding Let's Wonder Productions' reach in the ultra racing calendar. Whether you're a race director, an ultra fan, or someone curious about the business side of endurance sports media, this episode is a masterclass in passion-driven entrepreneurship.

Lance Smith didn't set out to become a name in ultra running — he just laced up and kept going. In this episode, Lance tells the unfiltered story of his journey through the sport: the grind, the setbacks, and the moments that made it all worth it.

We get into his Mickelson Trail FKT — what it took to chase it down, what broke him along the way, and what pushed him across the finish line. But Lance's story doesn't stop at personal records. He's been building something bigger: community-driven events and challenges rooted in purpose, proving that running can be a force for real impact.

Gritty, honest, and fueled by a deep love for running — this one hits different.

Lance Smith's running journey and community involvement

Setting and breaking FKTs in South Dakota

Creative and fun running challenges like gas station runs and track races

resources

Lance Smith's YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LanceSmith1970

Lance Smith's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lance_smith_1970/

Join Justin Andreas and guest Chris Riley as they explore ultra marathon topics, race strategies, race experiences, and the evolving landscape of trail running. Gain insights into race planning, gear choices, and the mental aspects of ultra running.

ultra marathon, trail running, race strategies, race experiences, gear, mental toughness, race planning, ultrarunning community

key topics

Pacers in elite ultra races Race preparation and strategy for 200-mile events Trail race experiences and course insights Gear and nutrition for ultra running Mental resilience and recovery in ultrarunning

sound bites

"Black Hills is my hometown course." "Tailwind is my go-to nutrition." "Follow me on Strava for updates."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of Chris Riley 03:01 The Role of Pacers in Ultra Races 05:46 Chris's Journey into Ultra Running 08:37 Experiences with Various Ultra Races 11:27 Favorite Races and Future Aspirations 14:09 The Cost of Ultra Racing and Race Selection 23:15 Exploring 200-Mile Races 28:33 Planning for Ultra Races 29:40 Motivation and Mental Breaks in Training 35:18 Setting Goals and Managing Expectations 39:00 Favorite Gear and Nutrition Strategies 45:42 Red Sunset Mountain Background Thanks for Watching Youtube Outro .mp4