Endurance State of Mind

In Episode 50 of Endurance State of Mind, Zach Vogt and Anthony Herrington are joined by returning guest David Slowik to recap the 2026 Mississippi 50 trail run. With Episode 50 lining up just days after Mississippi 50, the crew dives into one of the most fitting race recaps the podcast has had yet.

The first half of the episode focuses on Anthony’s experience finishing his first 50-mile trail race. They talk through the atmosphere of Mississippi 50, race-day strategy, pacing, hydration, fueling, creek crossings, heat, pollen, recovery, and the mental side of running 50 miles on trail. Zach and David also reflect on...

We’re back with a short pre-episode recap because tonight’s guest is someone special.

We sat down with Zach McRaney, president of the South Mississippi Trail Alliance, and what stood out most wasn’t just what he’s accomplished — it’s how selfless he is.

SMTA is out there maintaining trails that so many of us use every single week… and most of us probably don’t even realize it. From clearing fallen trees to building and preserving entire trail systems, if they don’t do it, sometimes nobody does. As Zach said, without regu...

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The band is back together. After a run of expert guests and credentialed pros, Zach and Anthony bring it back to a classic Endurance State of Mind episode: two microphones, strong opinions, and just enough structure to keep things (somewhat) on the rails.

This week, they recap the Molten Mohawk 9-Miler and why Rhonda Hayden consistently...

Introduction: 
In the world of endurance sports, discussions often center around VO2 max, lactic threshold, and the latest recovery tools. However, one crucial aspect that frequently gets overlooked is bone health. In a recent episode of the podcast "Endurance State of Mind," Dr. Jeffrey Parr, an associate professor of athletic training and expert in rehabilitation sciences, sheds light on the importance of maintaining strong bones for athletes, particularly runners. 

Main Content:

Understanding Bone Remodeling
Bone health is not just about avoiding fractures; it’s about understanding how our bones adapt to the stresses we p...

Introduction:
 In the competitive world of endurance sports, injury can often feel like an inevitable part of the journey. However, as podcast host Zach and expert physical therapist Stephen Worrel discuss, understanding the difference between normal discomfort and potential injury can be the key to a successful running career. This blog post breaks down essential insights from their conversation, equipping runners and endurance athletes with the knowledge they need to stay on track and enjoy their passion for running without unnecessary setbacks.

Understanding the Importance of Injury Prevention
 One of the critical themes in the po...

With Zach out of town, Anthony takes the mic solo for a listener-driven Q&A episode of Endurance State of Mind. Pulled straight from Instagram questions, this episode covers everything from the races he’s most excited about this year to the mental shift from triathlons to ultras, how cycling and running fuel each other, favorite gear, fueling mistakes, cold-weather toe care, and the athletes and creators shaping his endurance mindset right now. A relaxed, honest, and slightly rambling (in the best way) conversation about training, curiosity, community, and why endurance sports are about a lot more than finish ti...

In this episode of Endurance State of Mind, Anthony and Zach sit down with Chris Lott for a raw, unfiltered conversation about grit, faith, family, and choosing to suffer on your own terms.

Chris’s story isn’t a linear athletic progression, it’s a hard-earned transformation. Growing up in Purvis, Mississippi, he found his way into endurance sports only after walking through addiction, hitting rock bottom, and facing a life-altering wake-up call in 2015. That moment didn’t just change his health, and it redefined how he approaches pain, discipline, and purpose.

What b...

In the world of running, the right shoes can make all the difference. In this episode of Endurance State of Mind, we dive deep into the latest trends in running footwear with Henry Carpenter, the owner of Fleet Feet Tuscaloosa. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or just starting your running journey, understanding shoe technology and fit is crucial for enhancing performance and comfort.

The Intersection of Passion and Expertise
Henry Carpenter’s journey into the running world is inspiring. Originally from Natchez, Mississippi, he transformed from a high school football player into a dedicated runner, shed...

Introduction: 
As endurance athletes gear up for a new year of training and competition, one critical aspect often overlooked is hydration. In our latest podcast episode, we delve deep into the science of hydration with expert Ryan Hofacre, who shares invaluable insights on how proper hydration can enhance training consistency and improve race-day performance.

Main Content: 
1. The Importance of Hydration in Endurance Sports  
Hydration is fundamental to endurance performance. Ryan Hofacre highlights that many athletes underestimate the impact of hydration on their training and competition. He explains that dehydration can lead to decreased performance and...

Introduction: As we step into 2026, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our past achievements and set intentional goals for the year ahead. In the latest episode of the Endurance State of Mind podcast, hosts Zach and Anthony dive deep into the significance of goal setting in endurance sports, emphasizing the importance of clarity and sustainability over perfection.

Main Content:

**Reflecting on the Past Year**  
Zach and Anthony kick off the episode by looking back at 2025, sharing personal anecdotes and experiences that shaped their endurance journeys. Zach highlights how grateful he is for his...

As the year draws to a close, it’s a perfect time for reflection and growth. In this special recap episode of the Endurance State of Mind podcast, hosts Zach and Anthony look back on their inaugural year, celebrating the lessons learned, the inspiring stories shared, and the incredible guests who joined them along the way. Join us as we delve into the highlights of the past year and share what’s next for the podcast.

1. A Year in Review: The Journey So Far
Zach and Anthony kick off the episode by acknowledging the unique timi...

Introduction: The Rocket City Marathon is not just a race; it's a celebration of endurance, friendship, and the spirit of running. In this special episode of Endurance State of Mind, we revisit the experiences of our guests as they brave the freezing temperatures and push their limits. Join us as we unpack their unforgettable journey and the lessons learned along the way.

Main Content:
1. Reunion of Endurance: In this episode, Zach welcomes back two previous guests, Josh Moore and Brian Murphy, creating a sense of camaraderie that sets the tone for the discussion. The chemistry among...

In this episode of Endurance State of Mind, Zach sits down with Jared Graham, a runner, father, and passionate advocate for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. What began as a personal fitness journey evolved into a powerful mission of service, community, and perseverance.

Jared shares how a tight-knitunning group keeps him accountable through daily check-ins, how his upbringing shaped his work ethic, and why community matters just as much as mileage. He reflects on his path from high school track to the St. Jude Marathon Weekend, where he has raised over $50,000 for li...

Forrest Johnson Support link: https://www2.breakthrought1d.org/site/TR?fr_id=10421&pg=personal&px=12605959

Introduction:  
In the world of endurance sports, stories often emerge that inspire and uplift. One such story is that of Forrest Johnson, a dedicated runner whose journey transcends the mere act of finishing races. With over 60 marathons completed, including a remarkable feat of running seven marathons on seven continents in just seven days, Forrest’s motivation is deeply personal. His daughter’s diagnosis with type 1 diabetes ignited a fire within him to push his limits and raise awareness for a cause...

Introduction:  
In the world of endurance sports, few stories are as inspiring as that of Ethan Lott, a 20-year-old ultra runner from Hattiesburg, Mississippi. While many runners take years to progress through the distances, Ethan took a bold leap into the ultra running scene, tackling formidable races like 50Ks and preparing for his first 50-mile race. This blog post explores Ethan's journey, shedding light on his experiences, training, and the mindset that has driven his success.  

The Early Days: From Baseball to Running  
Ethan's athletic journey began in a family of baseball players, where the spo...

Introduction: In the world of endurance sports, transitioning from sprinting to ultra running is a rare feat, yet Jake Russell has not only made this leap but has excelled in it. In a captivating episode of the Endurance State of Mind podcast, Jake shares his remarkable journey, revealing the pivotal moments that led him to conquer the 100-mile trail and the community that has supported him along the way.

Main Content:

1. **Early Beginnings in Running**  
Jake Russell’s running journey began at the tender age of eight when he participated in a mile fun run...

Rhonda Hayden joins the podcast for a deep dive into one of the South’s most iconic races, the Rocket City Marathon in Huntsville, Alabama. We break down everything runners can expect from this year’s event: a fast, thoughtfully designed course, the continued growth of the marathon weekend, and the personal touches that make Rocket City a fan favorite. From upgraded race experiences and returning crowd-pleasers to new additions like the shout-out video board, Rhonda gives listeners an inside look at what makes this race unforgettable. We also cover pre-race logistics, weekend scheduling, and why now is the perf...

Introduction: In the latest episode of our podcast, we dive into the exhilarating experience of the Tunnel Hill 100, where our co-host Zach completed the race in an impressive time of 18 hours and 56 minutes. This episode unpacks the emotional rollercoaster, physical challenges, and invaluable lessons learned from this remarkable endurance event.

The Journey Begins: Setting the Scene  
The Tunnel Hill 100 is not just a race; it’s an endurance masterpiece that tests the limits of physical and mental strength. As Zach reflects on his experience, he shares how he felt just hours after crossing the finish line. "If...

In this episode of Endurance State of Mind, we sit down with runner and data enthusiast Whit Kendall, whose methodical yet mindful approach to training led to a stunning 2:37 finish at the Chicago Marathon. Whit shares how he transformed from a former football player to a marathoner obsessed with progress — running music-free, driven by intuition and numbers in equal measure.

We unpack his marathon progression, the power of community training, recovery insights, his Yasso 800 philosophy, and why he believes anyone can take on 26.2 miles. Whit’s story is a...

In this episode of Endurance State of Mind, we sit down with Lacey Saul — a 13-time Ironman finisher, registered dietitian, and newly minted Kona qualifier through the Ironman Legacy Program. Lacey opens up about her decade-long pursuit of Kona, how she learned to pivot instead of quit, and why racing smart often beats racing fast. From battling brutal weather and concussions to mastering gut training and redefining limits, this conversation dives deep into the mental and physical endurance it takes to chase a dream for over a decade.

🎧 Tune in to hear how Lacey turned setbacks into stepp...

Description:
In this special “just the hosts” episode of Endurance State of Mind, Anthony and Zach sit down to catch their breath and reflect on a wild stretch of endurance action. They revisit key takeaways from recent guests — Derrick Baker, the “Ambassador of Havoc,” and Warren Kimball, the maestro of the negative split — and unpack how consistency, nutrition, and mindset shape performance. Then they dive into their own Clear Creek Ultra experience, the finale of the MUTS Grand Slam. From trail sand and sore calves to ice bandanas and pulled pork sandwiches, this one’s equal parts reflecti...

From the weight room to 200-mile races, Derrick Baker is built different. A 12-time 100-mile finisher and 2-time 200-mile finisher from North Mississippi, Derrick embodies discipline, humility, and purpose. Once a 250-pound powerlifter, he discovered ultra running after seeing David Goggins on YouTube — and never looked back.

In this episode, we dive into how Derrick blends bodybuilding with high-mileage training, how he stays grounded in the grind, and how he finds light in the darkest moments of a race. He talks about his bond with his wife and crew chief, Candy, the mental battles that come with di...

Warren Kimball—two-time Boston finisher, 100-mile ultra winner, and LSU musicologist—joins us to blend art and endurance. We dig into his 15:35 at Tunnel Hill (closed strong with a negative split), plant-powered fueling, staying calm early, and turning repetition into mastery—on the piano and on the run. Plus: training after setbacks, pacing by feel, and why gratitude beats “suffer mode” for the long haul.

takeaways

Warren's journey into running began after significant life changes.He lost 75 pounds and embraced running as a lifestyle.The connection between music and running is...

No guest—just Anthony and Zach catching up after work travel and stacked weeks. We trade notes on chasing Strava crowns coast-to-coast, a rope-assist climb at Mount Storm King, and turning a seven-day, 36-holes-a-day golf trip into a stealth ultra. We shout out recent guests (Travis, Jed, Hezekiah, Chris), celebrate comebacks and dubs, and sketch a new negative-split strategy for Tunnel Hill. Plus: what the Norwegians, Pogacar, and Sifan Hassan teach us about pacing and fueling, first impressions of the WHOOP, Tim Irving’s Ivy Trek race, and what’s next (Clear Creek, Tunnel Hill, Rocket City). Laid-back, a little...

In this episode of Endurance State of Mind, we sit down with Travis Stewart—a husband, dad, and real estate professional whose endurance journey began during COVID with the Couch to 5K program. What started as a way to cope during a tough season quickly grew into something bigger: running led to cycling, cycling led to triathlon, and soon Travis was toeing the line at three 70.3s, a full Ironman, Unbound 200, and the grueling Rule of Three.

But this story is about more than just miles and medals. Endurance sports helped Travis through some of life’s hard...

From the heart of Hattiesburg’s Longleaf Trace, Jed Darby has built more than a bike shop—he’s built a movement. The Cajun-born runner-turned-cyclist/coach shares how early boxing shaped his endurance mindset, why he qualified for Boston (and Kona) then chose the work over the spotlight, and what he learned from coaching greats like Rick Crawford. We dig into the science—zone 2, stress-adapt-recover, fit and position—and the culture: Tuesday Night Worlds, true no-drop group rides, Hub City Velo, and why community beats ego every time. Plus, the story behind Jed’s Perfect Bikes & Brew (yes, those protein ball...

At just 23, Hezekiah “Hezzy” Miller is a walking shot of energy gel—equal parts hype man and humble grinder. Raised in the Mississippi Delta, Hezzy went from black-sheep kid to endurance engine, once jumping from two miles to a DIY 50-miler in two weeks (yes, really). But this conversation goes far deeper than mileage. He opens up about depression, the sticky-note practice that kept him here “one more day,” and how surrendering to faith reshaped his purpose into serving others—on and off the course.

Now, he’s uprooting his life for a role at the Mayo Clinic and set...

In this special episode of Endurance State of Mind, it’s just Zach and Anthony behind the mics. The guys swap endurance shoes for golf spikes as they recount their first scramble together in Hattiesburg, where the “student became the teacher” and golf proved to be a surprising mirror for running lessons. From patience and humility on the fairway to battling the “lies” in endurance training, they reflect on recent guest takeaways, Zach’s powerful return to Banff for his 6-year sobriety milestone, and Anthony’s breakthrough workouts. Expect a fun mix of laughs, rapid-fire analogies, and deep reflections on how growth...

In this episode of Endurance State of Mind, we sit down with Chris Mixon—an ultra runner with podium finishes at the Pinhoti 100 and Lake Martin 100, and a course record at Fondren Urban Ultra. But what makes this conversation powerful isn’t just his racing resume—it’s the fact that Chris is sharing his story mid-comeback. After surgery, setbacks, and months of painful recovery, he’s opening up about the mental battle of rebuilding, the lies injuries whisper, and the resilience it takes to believe your best days are still ahead. With his return to racing just weeks away, Chri...

For more than two decades, Ed Daly has been the gold standard of Mississippi endurance. With over 20 consecutive years of logging 2,000+ miles annually, Ed’s journey is about more than races — it’s about attitude, perseverance, and lifting others up along the way. In this episode, Ed shares how running became a lifelong habit, why community matters, the greatest week of running in his life, and how his medical background shapes his approach to health and longevity. From Crescent City to rim-to-rim-to-rim, his story proves that endurance is a state of mind.

takeaways

Ed Dal...

What does it take to push your body to the brink—and then keep going? In this episode of Endurance State of Mind, we sit down with ultra running enigma Arrmon Abedikichi, a four-time 100-mile finisher, five-time Fondren Urban Ultra champion, and co-course record holder. Arrmon shares how a single moment of curiosity ignited a journey into self-improvement, resilience, and the art of embracing discomfort. From losing everything in a house fire to winning races against stacked fields, his story is part grit, part philosophy, and part sheer stubbornness. We dive deep into his mental playbook, his love for th...

In this episode of Endurance State of Mind, we sit down with Susan Dobson a triathlete, marathoner, and mom whose story is a testament to resilience, grit, and growth. From learning to swim in her 30s after a traumatic childhood experience to conquering three full Ironmans, qualifying for Boston, and juggling the chaos of family, career, and training, Susan shares how endurance sports transformed her life.

We dive deep into the mental battles of group workouts, the discipline it takes to chase a goal for years, and the power of honoring promises to yourself. Susan also reflects...

Anthony and Zach go full host-mode for a no-guest episode of Endurance State of Mind—and it’s one of the rawest yet. From scorching heat and quad cramps to dry heaves and digging deep, the guys break down every brutal, hilarious, and inspiring moment of the Big Butts Ultra. They recap race strategy, near-meltdowns (literally), and what it takes to push through when your body wants to quit. Plus, Tour de France hot takes, a shoutout to Endurance State of Mind listeners who showed up big, and a look at what’s next for 2025 (Clear Creek, Tunnel Hill, Rocket...

What do you get when you combine sub-2:30 marathons, high school cross country chaos, and a son named Miles? You get Jacob Plocher—state record holder, school counselor, coach, and Mississippi’s own marathon man.

In this episode of Endurance State of Mind, Jacob takes us through his journey from overweight middle schooler to breaking state records and chasing finish lines at world majors. We talk about Boston breakthroughs, dad strength, fueling mistakes that ended with firefighters, and what it means to grind smarter—not just harder.

Whether you're a seasoned runner or just l...

This week on Endurance State of Mind, we sit down with Louis Gagne—a cyclist, KOM chaser, and all-around ambassador for two wheels and transformation. Louis opens up about rediscovering cycling during COVID, trading in beers for big climbs, and how the bike became his therapy and his mission. From mountain biking in Mississippi to riding team-issued EF Education bikes through the streets of California, Louis’ journey is packed with grit, gear, and giving back.

We cover everything from bike nerd-out moments to how he helped his wife lose 30 pounds through cycling, and how he's quietly changing live...