In this episode of Endurance State of Mind, we sit down with Mississippi endurance athlete Jamie Stevison, a runner who has quickly built a reputation for doing what most people won’t—waking up at 2 a.m. to train before work, putting in double-digit miles daily, and showing up no matter what.

Jamie’s journey into endurance sports didn’t start with a lifelong passion for running. It started during one of the hardest seasons of his life. After going through a divorce, he turned to running as an outlet—and what began as a way to cope quickly turned into something much bigger.

In just a short period of time, Jamie went from running his first miles on a treadmill to competing across multiple distances including 5Ks, half marathons, marathons, and 50Ks. Along the way, he dropped over 40 pounds, ran a sub-3-hour marathon, and even won his first ultra race.

But this episode isn’t just about results—it’s about discipline.

We dive deep into:

• How Jamie structures his life around consistency
• Why he wakes up at 2–3 a.m. to train
• The mindset shift from motivation to discipline
• Lessons learned from early race mistakes, including hitting the wall in his first marathon
• How he balances work, marriage, and high-level training
• His transition from road racing into the ultra world
• Why “I don’t have time” is the most common excuse—and how to overcome it

Jamie also shares his future goals, including stepping into longer distances like 50 miles and 100-mile races, and preparing for the Boston Marathon.

If you’ve ever struggled with staying consistent, finding time to train, or pushing past your limits, this episode will challenge you to rethink what’s possible.

Because at the end of the day, endurance isn’t just about how far you can go—it’s about how often you’re willing to show up.

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In this special episode of Endurance State of Mind, we celebrate one full year and 52 consecutive weeks of podcasting. From humble beginnings to becoming part of a growing endurance community, this episode is all about reflection, gratitude, and what’s ahead.

We dive into the biggest moments from the past year, including our most impactful guest interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and how the podcast has shaped us as athletes, hosts, and people. From inspiring conversations with runners across Mississippi and beyond, to lessons in resilience, consistency, and mental toughness, this episode highlights what makes endurance sports so powerful.

We also break down:

• Our most listened-to episodes and standout guests
• Key lessons learned from elite runners, everyday athletes, and industry experts
• How endurance training has changed our mindset, performance, and daily lives
• The evolution of the podcast and what’s coming next

Whether you’ve been with us since Episode 1 or just found the show, this is a behind-the-curtain look at what it takes to stay consistent, build something meaningful, and keep showing up week after week.

If you’re passionate about running, ultramarathons, triathlon, or endurance sports in the Southeast, this episode is for you.

Thank you for being part of the journey. Here’s to the next 52.

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In this episode of Endurance State of Mind, we sit down with ultra runner Bethany Madson following her overall win and course record at the Mississippi 100, where she completed the 100 mile trail race in 16 hours and 33 minutes.

This episode is a deep dive into ultra running strategy, 100 mile race preparation, trail running mindset, and endurance performance. Bethany shares how she went from her first ultra to becoming a dominant force in the sport, including her experience racing events like the Mississippi 100, ultra marathons, and major marathons like Boston, Chicago, and New York.

We break down:

• How to train for a 100 mile ultramarathon
• Race day strategy for trail running and endurance racing
• Nutrition mistakes and how to fix them during long races
• Mental toughness and how to push through low points in ultra running
• Balancing running, work, and family life as a high-level athlete
• What it takes to win an ultra marathon overall
• Lessons learned from failed races and breakthrough performances

Bethany also shares insights into recovery, pacing, hydration, and fueling for ultramarathons, along with advice for beginner runners looking to complete their first ultra.

Whether you’re training for your first 50K, 50 mile, or 100 mile race, or you’re looking to improve your endurance performance, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration.

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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 their own race performances, the ultra community, what makes Mississippi 50 such a unique event, and why trail running continues to pull people back year after year.

The conversation also highlights what makes ultramarathons special beyond finishing times, from aid station energy and race-day camaraderie to the challenge of pushing physical and mental limits. Whether you are training for your first ultra, preparing for a 50K, 50-miler, or 100-mile race, or you simply love hearing real race recaps from runners in the trenches, this episode has something for you.

In the second half, the conversation shifts from racing to real life as David shares what it has been like becoming a father. He talks about welcoming his daughter, navigating the emotions of new parenthood, balancing family, work, and training, and how becoming a dad has changed his perspective on competition, community, and endurance sports. The crew also talks about what races are ahead this year, including Fondren Urban Ultra, Big Butts, and No Business 100.

The episode wraps with the announcement of the raffle winner connected to Adam’s GoFundMe and a thank you to the Endurance State of Mind community for showing up in a big way.

If you enjoy trail running, ultrarunning, marathon training, race recaps, Mississippi running culture, and conversations around endurance sports, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

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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 regular maintenance, the trail turns right back into the forest.

That conversation really made us reflect. It’s easy to show up to a race or a group run and think everything just “comes together.” But behind every event, every well-kept trail, every smooth race day — there are volunteers putting in hours most people never see.

And Zach? Somehow he finds the time. Between leading SMTA, volunteering in multiple areas, organizing efforts, and still being active in the endurance community, it’s inspiring. It’s a reminder that if something matters to you, you’ll find the time.

We also highlight one of SMTA’s newer trails, The Accelerator — a 7+ mile loop near Classic Drive in the Hattiesburg / Pine Belt area. If you haven’t checked it out, you should. It’s another example of what happens when people take ownership of their backyard.

It’s race week for Mississippi 50 and we’re pumped.

We’ll have an Endurance State of Mind tent set up, and we’re doing something a little different with our hats.

Instead of selling them, we’re asking for a $40 donation to Adam Weaver’s GoFundMe to support his heart transplant journey.

• 100% of that $40 goes directly to Adam.
• We’re covering the cost of the hats ourselves.
• If we run out, we’ll order more and make sure you get one.

We’ll have a QR code at the tent to make it simple — donate, show us, grab a hat.

To everyone who has already donated — thank you. Watching the support come in has been incredible.

Today we’re joined by Zach McRaney, president of the South Mississippi Trail Alliance (SMTA) — a volunteer-led group building, maintaining, and advocating for hand-built singletrack in our region. Zach takes us through his personal journey from quitting smoking and discovering endurance sports, to finding a community through bikes, trails, and service.

We talk about the unseen work behind the trails we all enjoy — how quickly a trail can disappear without maintenance, what it costs to keep systems safe and usable, and why this isn’t “just a cycling thing.” These trails belong to runners, hikers, walkers, families, and anyone who wants to get outside.

Zach also breaks down SMTA’s trail networks, community rides, the growing youth scene through NICA, and events on the calendar — including the Rattlesnake Rumble and more.

If you’ve ever hit a trail and thought, “Man, this is perfect,” this episode will make you appreciate the people who make that possible — and might just inspire you to give back.

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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 puts on one of the best race experiences in the state — from the logistics to the post-race party vibes. They break down course changes, humidity hitting early-season legs, and the magic of out-and-backs where you get to see everyone on the return.

They also look ahead to the Mississippi 50 (both running the 50-mile), talk training consistency vs. speed work, share life updates (including Michaela catching a football from Drew Brees), and react to the wild talk around Kristian Blummenfelt’s reported VO₂ max.

Plus: a quick update on how you can support the community, and a preview of Zach & Anthony’s upcoming nutrition clinic with Fleet Feet / Hattiesburg Half training group.

takeaways

• The importance of community in endurance events.
• Rhonda's events create a unique race experience.
• Logistics are crucial for race growth and quality.
• Weather can significantly impact race performance.
• The atmosphere of races enhances the experience.
• Consistency in training leads to better performance.
• Competing against younger runners can be motivating.
• The spirit of competition drives personal bests.
• Health challenges can affect training and performance.
• Fundraising efforts can support community members in need.

Chapters
00:00
Welcome Back to Endurance State of Mind
02:04
Recapping the Molten Mohawk Non-Miler
04:15
The Race Experience and Rhonda's Magic
07:33
Logistics and Growth Concerns for Events
09:16
Race Route Changes and Personal Experiences
11:47
Weather and Race Day Conditions
13:21
Community and Race Atmosphere
15:49
Training Runs and Consistency
17:26
Competing with Younger Runners
21:42
The Spirit of Competition
23:28
Upcoming Races and Personal Goals
26:51
Life Updates and Health Challenges
28:36
COVID and Recovery Experiences
30:57
VO2 Max and Elite Athletes
38:23
Michaela's Catch and Fun Stories
41:45
Chirp Halo and Recovery Tools
47:52
Fundraising and Community Support
56:40
Nutrition Clinic Announcement

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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 place on them. Dr. Parr emphasizes that while moderate impact activities can promote bone strength, prolonged high-impact training, such as what ultra runners often experience, can lead to bone breakdown instead of strengthening. This is a critical point for runners to consider as they ramp up their mileage.

The Myths of Running and Bone Strength
During the podcast, a myth-busting game revealed several surprising truths about bone health. For instance, Dr. Parr debunked the notion that running inherently builds strong bones. He explains that although some mechanical loading helps, the repetitive nature of long-distance running can actually lead to stress fractures if not managed properly. This highlights the need for athletes to balance their training with proper nutrition and recovery strategies.

Nutrition’s Role in Bone Health
A recurring theme in Dr. Parr's research is the impact of nutrition on bone density. He shared insights from a 12-week study on Division One athletes, highlighting the alarming statistic that 41% were vitamin D deficient. This deficiency can lead to compromised bone health, demonstrating that it's not just the physical training that matters but also the fuel that athletes provide their bodies. Athletes, especially those training during early mornings or late evenings, may miss out on essential sunlight needed for vitamin D production.

The Importance of Resistance Training
Dr. Parr also discussed the benefits of incorporating heavy resistance training into an athlete's regimen. It has been shown that such training can significantly improve bone density. This is an important reminder for endurance athletes who might prioritize cardio over strength training. Adding strength workouts can create a more balanced approach to fitness, leading to better overall performance and injury prevention.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, maintaining strong bones is essential for longevity and success in endurance sports. Athletes should be aware that running alone may not be enough to strengthen their skeletal structure, and they must complement their training with proper nutrition, resistance training, and adequate rest. Dr. Jeffrey Parr's insights serve as a valuable reminder that to perform at our best, we must take care of the very framework that supports us.

Key Takeaways:
1. High mileage running can lead to bone breakdown rather than strengthening.
2. Nutrition, particularly vitamin D intake, plays a crucial role in bone health.
3. Resistance training is fundamental for improving bone density and overall athletic performance.
4. Awareness of bone health can help prevent injuries and ensure endurance athletes remain structurally durable for the long haul.

Jeffrey J. Parr, Ph.D., LAT, ATC

Associate Professor – Athletic Training

Assistant Director – Rehabilitation Sciences

School of Health Professions

University of Southern Mississippi

Hattiesburg, MS 39406

Jeffrey.Parr@usm.edu

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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 podcast is the importance of proactive injury prevention. Many runners tend to seek help only after they’ve sustained an injury, often leading to prolonged recovery times. Stephen mentions that around 90–95% of his clients come in with existing injuries, while only a small percentage seek preventive care. This highlights a significant opportunity for runners to engage in pre-habilitation strategies, such as running gait analysis and strength training, which can significantly reduce the risk of injuries.

Identifying Discomfort vs. Injury
One of the most challenging aspects of running is distinguishing between normal training discomfort and a potential injury. Stephen emphasizes that newer runners often struggle with this due to their lack of experience. He advises that if discomfort persists and doesn’t resolve, it’s a sign to reassess. For seasoned runners, experience helps them gauge when to push through discomfort and when to seek help. A simple rule of thumb is to listen to your body; if normal movement and pace become difficult, it may be time to adjust your training.

Common Running Injuries and Their Solutions
Throughout the podcast, Stephen discusses several common injuries he sees in runners, including plantar fasciitis, lateral hip issues, and knee pain.

Plantar Fasciitis: This condition often arises from overuse and can be addressed with proper stretching and strengthening exercises. Stephen notes that many cases can be resolved with changes in footwear and training habits.

Lateral Hip Pain: More prevalent among female runners, this issue typically stems from weakness in the hip muscles. Strengthening exercises targeting the glutes can provide relief and prevent recurrence.

Knee Pain: Often linked to improper running form, Stephen suggests that many knee issues can be corrected quickly through technique adjustments. However, addressing the underlying strength and mobility issues may take more time.

Strategies for Runners to Stay Injury-Free
For runners who want to avoid injuries altogether, Stephen offers several practical strategies.

1. Focus on Form: Proper running mechanics play a crucial role in injury prevention. Paying attention to stride and posture can help mitigate stress on the body.
2. Integrate Strength Training: Incorporating strength exercises can help balance muscle groups and improve overall running efficiency.
3. Listen to Your Body: If you experience unusual discomfort, take a step back to assess the situation. Do not ignore signals that your body is sending.

Conclusion
The conversation between Zach and Stephen provides valuable insights that all endurance athletes can benefit from. Key takeaways include the importance of proactive injury prevention, understanding the difference between training discomfort and injury, and the need for proper technique and strength training. By applying these principles, runners can enhance their performance while minimizing the risk of injuries. Remember, staying in tune with your body and seeking professional guidance when needed can make all the difference in your running journey.

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