She Runs Ultras - podcast cover

She Runs Ultras

Meghan Gouldwww.meghan-gould.com
She Runs Ultras is about (yup, you guessed it) running ultras. Lots of other running podcasts out there are full of gear & race reviews and interviews with the experts telling unrelatable stories about their record breaking times and super human feats. Now…don’t get me wrong, I’ve learned some great stuff from those podcasts...But what about those of us that aren’t getting paid to do this?Those of us that are mid to back of the pack runners?And those of us that have never won a damn thing? What was out there for us? Yeah, I couldn’t find it - so I decided to make it! And it just so happens that I’m getting geared up to start training for some races in 2021. So throughout this series, I’ll share what really happens when a typical, non-professional runner takes on the challenge of running an ultra. Got some races planned for this year? Let’s train together.From the emotional & physical ups and downs, to the details of my actual training plan, and the excitement (not to mention nerves) that build as race day gets closer...I promise not to hold anything back. So whether you’re already a member of the ultra community or if you’re just ultra curious...Hit subscribe and let’s do this!

Episodes

Ep. 279 - The "C" Word 😁

In this episode we're talking about the "C" word of ultra running...2 of them actually. They are: Countdown & Consistency. We'll talk about the importance of both, how they are intertwined, and why they are crucial to your ultra running success. I'm also sharing some of what the She Runs Ultras Crew has been up to and what we're planning for 2026 (and how you can get in on the action!) 🛍️ SHOP THE SHE RUNS ULTRAS STORE ⭐️ GET THE ULTIMATE 50K TRAINING TOOLKIT ➡️ CLICK HERE TO JOIN MY PRIVAT...

Jun 27, 202521 minSeason 1Ep. 279

Ep. 278 - Drummer Hill 50k Recap

In this episode, I recap my day at the rainy, rocky, and rooty Drummer Hill 50K—a small, looped trail race in New Hampshire with surprise crew support, soaking wet trails, and a whole lotta mud. I break down each lap, from smooth sailing in lap one to survival mode in lap four (spoiler: it rained *a lot*). We talk slippery bridges, mental battles, perimenopause aches, and why this race was all about practicing—not racing. Plus, a shoutout to bug spray, quesadillas, and the power of showing up. �...

Jun 20, 202535 minSeason 1Ep. 278

Ep. 277 - The Walk / Run Gradient

At the gym the other day, someone asked me: “Got any advice for a fat guy who wants to start running… asking for a friend?” 😄 That sparked a convo about something I always teach runners—whether you’re training for your first 5K or your first 100-miler: 👉 Start with walking. 👉 Build from there. 👉 Use the Walk/Run Gradient. In this episode, I’m breaking down my favorite strategy for building endurance without wrecking your body in the process. We’re talking about: Why walking workouts absolute...

Jun 13, 202513 minSeason 1Ep. 277

Ep. 276 - What if...

What if the only thing standing between you and your big, scary goal… was the question you’ve been asking yourself? In this episode, I’m digging into one of the most powerful mindset shifts I’ve made as a runner and a coach: asking better questions. You’ll hear how I used to sabotage my own progress, why “Why can’t I do this?” is the worst , and how to reframe your thinking so you actually move forward. If you’ve been stuck, plateaued, or in full-on beat-yourself-up mode lately… this one’s for y...

Jun 06, 202523 minSeason 1Ep. 276

Ep. 275 - What to Do When Your Ultras Are Just Weeks Apart

In this episode of She Runs Ultras , I’m diving into the topic of racing ultras close together —specifically, why I’m running two 50Ks just four weeks apart , how I’m managing my training in between, and what I recommend if you find yourself in a similar situation. Last week, I shared the behind-the-scenes of my Bloodroot 50K finish (spoiler alert: it was a grind but worth it!). Now, I’ve got another 50K on deck for next weekend , so I thought it would be super helpful to talk through: Why I’m d...

May 30, 202531 minSeason 1Ep. 275

Ep 274 - Bloodroot 50k: Mud, Mountains, and Mental Grit

In this episode, I’m taking you inside my first 50K of 2025 — the wild, wet, and wicked Bloodroot Ultra in Pittsfield, Vermont. Spoiler alert: it rained for 10+ days before race weekend, so the course was less "trail" and more "swampy obstacle course." From overflowing rivers and knee-deep mud to surprise cutoffs and surprise aid station visits from my husband, this one had everything. I talk gear (spoiler: I was overpacked), mindset, and the moment at mile 20 where I had to make a tough decisio...

May 23, 20251 hrSeason 1Ep. 274

Ep. 273 - Strategies To Boost Your Recovery with Colin Cook

In this episode of She Runs Ultras , I sit down with professional age group triathlete Colin Cook — a multi-time Ironman World Championship competitor and the founder of Peak Recovery in Manchester, NH. We talk about what it takes to perform at a high level in endurance sports, the critical role recovery plays in long-term success, and how everyday athletes can use simple tools to stay strong and injury-free. Colin also shares his personal journey in triathlon, what led him to open Peak Recovery...

May 16, 202556 minSeason 1Ep. 273

Ep 272 - 3 Things I'm Doing This Week To Prepare For My 50k

Got a race coming up? In this episode, I’m sharing the *three key things* I’m doing this week to make sure I feel strong, confident, and ready when I toe the line for my upcoming 50K. Here’s what I cover: 💧 Staying on top of hydration — why waiting until the day before the race is a huge mistake 😴 Prioritizing sleep — especially the *two nights before*, and how to create more rest overall 🧘‍♀️ Doubling down on mobility — because those last-minute mystery aches are *always* a thing Plus, a bon...

May 09, 202531 minSeason 1Ep. 272

Ep. 271 - Southern States 200 Recap with Sarah Brandt

Today's episode is the long awaited recap of the Southern States 200 race back in March. I traveled to this race to crew and pace for 2 of my athletes, Sarah and Frank (plus my *bonus* athlete, Nicolle) as they made their way from Georgia into Alabama. In this episode you'll hear my conversation with Sarah as we rehash everything from start to finish (literally!) I even convinced them to do some *voice memos* to help document the process. And, if you'd like the full experience, head over to my p...

May 02, 20253 hr 58 minSeason 1Ep. 271

Ep. 270 - Listener Q&A: Tailwind Math, Training Gaps, and the Case of the Disappearing Drop Bags

Listener Questions Answered: Calories, Tailwind, Sick Days, Blisters & Drop Bags In this week’s Q&A-style episode, I'm tackling some of your most pressing ultra running questions—from fueling on the run to navigating training setbacks, and everything in between. Whether you’re dialing in your nutrition or deep in the throes of peak training, this episode is packed with real talk, practical advice, and encouragement for every step of your ultra journey. 🔥 In this episode, we cover: Calor...

Apr 25, 202532 minSeason 1Ep. 270

Ep. 269 - Why Running A 50k Doesn't "Just Happen"

In today’s quick-hit episode, we’re talking about what it really means to be in the driver’s seat on your journey to your first 50K finish. No one is going to hand you a 50K finish line— you have to go out and make it happen . If you're serious about this goal, it’s time to shift from being passive to proactive. That means looking for opportunities to train, learn, connect with others, and build momentum. Whether it’s joining a run group, hiring a coach, or simply showing up and doing the work—y...

Apr 18, 202525 minSeason 1Ep. 269

Ep 268 - 3 Things I Would Do Differently If I Were Starting Over Training For My First 50k

If you're doing your first ultra this year, here are 3 things that you can start implementing right away that will set you up for success. Do A Shakedown Every. Single. Day. Set & Hit A Daily Step Goal Strength Train 3 Times Per Week I got into more detail on each and give you expert tips & tricks for how to leverage each of these small (but mighty) actions into your first 50k finish! And as always, if you need help...just hit me up on social or via email! 🛍️ SHOP THE SHE RUNS ULTRAS ST...

Apr 11, 202531 minSeason 1Ep. 268

Ep. 267 - Foot Shape Matters with Ted McGreer of Ted's Shoe & Sport

It's been far too long since we had a conversation about running shoes. (Ted enters the chat!) In this episode I'm catching up with my good friend Ted McGreer, who's an expert in all-things-running-shoes. We talk about: tips for buying the right shoes, tweaks you can make to your shoes so that they fit better, and some behind the scenes of what it's like to buy shoes for an entire running store. 🛍️ SHOP THE SHE RUNS ULTRAS STORE ⭐️ GET THE ULTIMATE 50K TRAINING TOOLKIT ➡️ CLICK HERE TO JOIN MY ...

Apr 04, 202553 minSeason 1Ep. 267

Ep. 266 - Function Over Form: A Conversation About Body Image and Ultra Running with Jordana Edelstein

Jordana Edelstein (nutrition & body image coach) is back! In this episode, we're riffing on the idea that it's hard to hate your body when it's done something pretty incredible, like run an ultra. We also go deep on a bunch of other topics like: perspective when it comes to viewing your body, social media influencers, and much, much more! 👉🏻 Follow Jordana on Instagram 🎧 Listen to her podcast The Diet Diaries 🛍️ SHOP THE SHE RUNS ULTRAS STORE ⭐️ GET THE ULTIMATE 50K TRAINING TOOLKIT ➡️ C...

Mar 28, 20251 hr 11 minSeason 1Ep. 266

Ep. 265 - Lead Up To Southern States 200 with Sarah Brandt

In this episode I'm chatting with my client (and friend of the podcast) Sarah Brandt about her upcoming adventure at the Southern States 200. If you're listening in real time (Friday March 21st) Sarah will be 3 days into this race, so what you're hearing is a conversation that we had 3 weeks prior. If you'd like to see what it's like to run a 200 mile race, make sure you're following me over on Instagram (@sherunsultras) where I'm documenting everything as it happens in my stories. You can also ...

Mar 21, 20251 hr 16 minSeason 1Ep. 265

Ep. 264 - What's On My Mind: Southern States 200, My New Weight Vest, Moab 240 Training

This week, I’m diving into TWO big topics: my upcoming adventure at the Southern States 200 and my experience with weighted vest training. Let’s go! Southern States 200 I’m heading out Monday to help my athletes get prepped, dial in aid stations, and strategize for the race. I’ll be pacing, crewing, and soaking up all the race vibes! Want behind-the-scenes action? Follow my IG/FB stories! Weighted Vest Training Why am I doing this? Because I love a challenge (and I have some climbing goals). I’l...

Mar 14, 202545 minSeason 1Ep. 264

Ep. 263 - 3 Things I Wouldn't Stress About While Training For Your First 50k

Training for your first ultra? Don’t get stuck stressing over the perfect race, perfect training plan, or perfect gear. In this episode, I break down three things that aren’t worth overthinking and what to do instead. 1. Picking the Perfect Race The perfect race doesn’t exist. Instead, choose one that: ✅ Excites you ✅ Fits your budget & schedule ✅ Works for your location 2. Finding the Perfect Training Plan There’s no one-size-fits-all plan—life happens, and you’ll need to adapt. Instead of ...

Mar 07, 202527 minSeason 1Ep. 263

Ep. 262 - Running A Spartan Ultra with Bryann Fair

Ever wondered what it's like to run an ultra with 30-ish Spartan-style obstacles along the way?? 🛍️ SHOP THE SHE RUNS ULTRAS STORE ⭐️ GET THE ULTIMATE 50K TRAINING TOOLKIT ➡️ CLICK HERE TO JOIN MY PRIVATE FACEBOOK GROUP 📸 FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM 🔥 JOIN THE SHE RUNS ULTRAS COACHING MEMBERSHIP 📝 IF I HELPED YOU RUN YOUR FIRST ULTRA, FILL OUT THIS FORM...

Feb 28, 20251 hr 20 minSeason 1Ep. 262

Ep. 261 - Shin Splints Suck: Here's How To Fix Them

Ever felt like your shins are staging a full-blown rebellion every time you run? You’re not alone. Listener Heather wrote in asking about shin splints—what causes them, how to recover, and most importantly, how to avoid them in the first place. So today, we’re tackling this super common (and super annoying) issue head-on. 🛍️ SHOP THE SHE RUNS ULTRAS STORE ⭐️ GET THE ULTIMATE 50K TRAINING TOOLKIT ➡️ CLICK HERE TO JOIN MY PRIVATE FACEBOOK GROUP 📸 FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM 🔥 JOIN THE SHE RUNS ULTRA...

Feb 21, 202529 minSeason 1Ep. 261

Ep. 260 - Don't Think You Can Run 200 Miles? Jess Greene Says "Yes You Can!!!"

What does it take to not just finish a grueling 240-mile race, but to go back six times? In this episode, I sit down with ultra-runner Jess Greene, a total badass who has finished the Moab 240 *five* times and is gearing up for her sixth loop in 2025. But her story isn’t just about big miles—it’s about transformation. Jess went from being 100 pounds overweight to running one of the toughest ultra races on the planet. We talk about what sparked her journey, how she tackled the mental and physical...

Feb 14, 20251 hr 21 minSeason 1Ep. 260

Ep. 259 - Trust the Process—Even When It Sucks 😝

I got 'ma’amed' at the gym by two high school boys. Oof. I know it’s respectful, but when you still feel 26, it stings. But hey, aging has perks—like knowing "you can’t rush a good thing." Yet, I keep hearing: How long before I see results? Am I doing it wrong? Sound familiar? Whether it’s body recomposition or ultra training, we all want fast results. But rushing leads to setbacks. Key takeaways: - Be present in your training. - Track your progress. - Stop looking for quick fixes. Hope this hel...

Feb 07, 202523 minSeason 1Ep. 259

Ep. 258 - The Brutal Truth About Why You're Not Hitting Your Goals (and what to do about it!)

We’ve all been there — staring at our training plan, waiting for some magical surge of motivation to make it feel easier. But here’s the cold, hard truth: motivation isn’t coming. And if you’re relying on it to get you through your training, you’re setting yourself up for failure. In this episode, I go on a bit of a rant (but a necessary one!) about the mindset that holds so many runners back. I’ve been guilty of it, you’ve been guilty of it, and the sooner we recognize it, the sooner we can fix...

Jan 31, 202528 minSeason 1Ep. 258

Ep. 257 - 🤔 How To Decide Which Race Is Right For You

Picking the perfect ultra race can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first one. In this episode, we’re breaking down the key factors you need to consider so you can find a race that fits your goals, schedule, and lifestyle like a well-worn trail shoe. From how much time you’ll need to train (hint: at least 20 weeks) to considering the race location, course type, and level of support, we cover it all. We’ll also chat about the environment—think weather, terrain, and even wildlife—and how...

Jan 24, 202538 minSeason 1Ep. 257

Ep. 256 - 4 Visualizations That Will Boost Your Confidence in 2025

Visualization isn’t just for elite athletes or woo-woo yogis. It’s a practical, game-changing tool that every ultra runner should have in their arsenal. In this episode, we’re diving into why visualization matters, how it works, and most importantly how you can use it to boost your confidence and crush your first (or farthest) ultra. Let’s be real: taking on an ultra is intimidating. It’s a big, scary goal that lives miles outside your comfort zone. Sure, your training plan is key, but what’s ha...

Jan 17, 202541 minSeason 1Ep. 256

Ep. 255 - 5 Things To Know Before Your First Ultra

It’s prime time for ultra planning! Whether you're researching races, mapping out your year, or tackling a personal SWOT analysis, this episode is packed with valuable advice to help you prepare for your first 50K (or your next one!). I asked the She Runs Ultras crew: "What’s something you wish you knew before your first 50K?" Their answers were fantastic, and I’m sharing them here along with actionable tips to help you succeed. Here’s what we cover: 1. Nutrition: Learn why “eat early, often, an...

Jan 10, 202534 minSeason 1Ep. 255

Ep. 254 - Avoiding The Planning & Training Pitfalls in 2025

Welcome to the first episode of 2025! Whether you're a longtime listener or joining us for the first time, this episode is designed to set you up for success as you tackle the new year. If running your first 50k is your goal, this is your ultimate guide to getting started. In This Episode: Picking Your Race : Why commitment is key and how to avoid the “wait and see” trap. Creating Your Annual Training Plan : A step-by-step breakdown to map your journey, including key episodes to revisit: Ep. 245...

Jan 03, 202543 minSeason 1Ep. 254

Ep. 253 - Your SWOT Analysis & 3 Critical Things To Remember For 2025

🎉 *Final Episode of 2024 + 4-Year Podcast Anniversary!* 🎉 Thank you for being part of the *She Runs Ultras* community! As we wrap up the year, I’m excited to take you on even more amazing ultra adventures in 2025. 👉 Reminder: The 30-Day Shakedown Challenge starts Monday, December 30th! Join us to build a consistent daily mobility habit, improve performance, and prevent injuries. What’s in This Episode: 1. SWOT Analysis - How to review your 2024 performance with clarity and purpose. - Pro tips...

Dec 27, 202425 minSeason 1Ep. 253

Ep. 252 - Speed💨 vs. Effort 💪🏼

In this episode, we’re breaking down the difference between speed and effort—and why focusing on effort can be a game-changer for trail and ultra runners. If you’ve ever stressed about race cutoffs or felt stuck trying to “get faster,” this one’s for you. We’ll talk about why traditional road running concepts like pace don’t translate well to trails and introduce the RPE scale (Rate of Perceived Exertion) as a smarter way to train. Learn how effort-based workouts can help you improve endurance, ...

Dec 20, 202431 minSeason 1Ep. 252

Ep. 251 - 1️⃣2️⃣ Quotes of Christmas - Part 2

This is part 2 of the 12 quotes of Christmas, 7 through 12. These are quotes from books that I have read over the last couple of years that have resonated with me. Enjoy! 🛍️ SHOP THE SHE RUNS ULTRAS STORE ⭐️ GET THE ULTIMATE 50K TRAINING TOOLKIT ➡️ CLICK HERE TO JOIN MY PRIVATE FACEBOOK GROUP 📸 FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM 🔥 JOIN THE SHE RUNS ULTRAS COACHING MEMBERSHIP 📝 IF I HELPED YOU RUN YOUR FIRST ULTRA, FILL OUT THIS FORM...

Dec 13, 20241 hr 3 minSeason 1Ep. 251

Ep. 250 - 1️⃣2️⃣ Quotes Of Christmas - Part 1

Welcome to Episode 250 of the show! 🎉 This milestone episode is designed to help you get into both the holiday spirit and the spirit of 2025 training with a special theme: The 12 Quotes of Christmas Over the next two episodes, I'll share 12 of my favorite quotes that have inspired me during tough training moments. This week, we’re diving into the first six quotes , and next Friday, I’ll reveal the rest! Enjoy! 🛍️ SHOP THE SHE RUNS ULTRAS STORE ⭐️ GET THE ULTIMATE 50K TRAINING TOOLKIT ➡️ CLICK ...

Dec 06, 202441 minSeason 1Ep. 250
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