This episode is a full pre-race mental spiral—from Winter Olympics chatter to how we actually prepared for the upcoming Music City Trail Ultra. It’s a wild ride through training strategies, injury prevention, fueling, hydration, and the mental games that come with toeing the line of an ultra.

We reflect on past race experiences, talk through what’s worked (and what hasn’t), and share the mindset we’re bringing into race day. Like most long runs, the conversation wanders—but it always circles back to the joy of chasing big goals and being part of the running community.

Thanks for joining us on the run.

Most people believe relentless discipline and early mornings are the secret to achieving extraordinary feats—and Nicole Coccia proves they’re right. She began running at age nine, defied doctors’ expectations after devastating snowboarding injuries that crushed both of her feet, and ran her first marathon just 29 days after giving birth. Today, she’s not just competing in ultramarathons—she’s setting course records at iconic races like the Long Haul 100 and preparing to take on the Badwater 135.

In this episode, Nicole shares the mindset behind her success: how to train your brain to push through brutal conditions, recover mentally from injury, and stay adaptable when everything goes wrong. She gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her record-breaking races, including pacing strategies, fueling approaches, and the mental tools that keep her moving forward. At the heart of it all is one simple but powerful lesson: when life feels overwhelming—run.

We explore her journey from running as a child to becoming an ultra trailblazer, and her goal of conquering Badwater. Whether you’re an endurance athlete, a busy parent, or someone navigating setbacks, Nicole’s story offers powerful inspiration to keep showing up and chasing what once felt impossible.

This episode is more than a running story—it’s a testament to resilience, discipline, and the power of mindset to turn obstacles into extraordinary achievements.

You can find Nicole on Instagram @XCNikki9.eth and on Facebook as Nicole Coccia.

Winter can feel heavy — shorter days, colder miles, quieter trails. But in this episode, we found something different out there.

We teamed up with @wiseowlraces for the Winter Blues Race — a 10-hour day of 4(ish)-mile loops, run solo or as a team. The weather was beautiful, Henry Horton State Park did not disappoint, and the vibes were high from start to finish. Everywhere we turned, people were encouraging each other, sharing miles, and showing what makes the trail community so special.

We set up under a tent, bundled up with hot drinks and open hearts, and talked with runners, trail groups, and our friends at Ignite Movement Co, Park Center, Fleet Feet — and even the park ranger who designed the course about what keeps them moving through the winter blues.

What we heard were incredible stories — of resilience, mental health, friendship, grief, healing, and the simple magic of showing up when it’s hard. This episode is full of shared memories, laughter, and the reminder that even in the coldest seasons, connection keeps us warm.

We were also grateful for product support from Brutal Salty Energy, helping keep runners fueled and conversations flowing all day long.

Because sometimes the best way through the winter… is together.

In this episode, the co-founders of Wise Owl Races, Stephen Formosa and Kelby Dover, share their journey from casual runners to race directors. They discuss the importance of community in running, the challenges and joys of trail running, and their innovative platform, Run This, which aims to connect runners with races. The conversation also touches on personal goals, training for ultra races, and the concept of Fastest Known Time (FKT). In this conversation, the hosts discuss the growth and planning of the Winter Blues race, the inception of Wise Owl Races, and the importance of community and mental health in their events. They share insights on race logistics, sponsorships, and the fun atmosphere of trail running, culminating in a preview of the upcoming race and a light-hearted rapid-fire question segment. We had so much fun talking to these guys, we hope you enjoy it too. As always, thanks for joining us on the run!

A beautiful, challenging course in Chattanooga, TN, put on by the awesome crew at Bad Beard Events. Tough miles, gritty climbs, and all the good vibes.

Sal battled through an ankle injury and still snagged 2nd female — pure toughness.

Patrick led the charge, pushing through pain and showing what grit really looks like.

Hard course, strong effort, unforgettable experience… and Chattanooga absolutely delivered the vibes.

Follow the journey and more adventures at @ps_runningpod ✨

In this episode, we sit down with Alvaro, the founder and creator of Brutal Salty Energy. We talk about his passion for nutrition and endurance sports, and how that passion led him to build something bigger than himself. Alvaro shares the ups and downs of the journey, what it really takes to create a quality product, and why connection with people matters just as much as performance. To find Brutal Salty Energy, go to BrutalSaltyEnergy.com

This week on the pod, we sit down with David, who—like so many—has walked a powerful journey toward sobriety. He shares how the last 10 years have shaped him and how exercise and running helped transform his daily routine and bring rhythm back into his life. David’s positivity and drive are contagious, and we hope his story offers you encouragement and motivation wherever you are on your own path.

As always, thanks for joining us on the run.

This week on the pod, we ventured out to Montgomery Bell State Park for our first ultra race—the Bell Ringer. Our families camped out along the course, lifting our spirits and filling our hearts at just the right moments.

We fell. We laughed. We almost cried. But we kept moving and made it to the finish.

After 32.75 miles of tough trail, we walked away humbled, grateful, and full-hearted. This race reminded us of the power of community, perseverance, and showing up even when it’s hard.

Huge shoutout to @bellringertrailrun for a beautifully run race and for hosting it in a place that so clearly reflects God’s creation.

Thanks for joining us on the run. 🏔️✨