logo
episode-header-image
May 2025
1h 9m

Episode 8: Embracing the Grind: Jackson ...

Anthony Herrington & Zach Vogt
About this episode

On this episode of the Endurance State of Mind podcast, we sit down with Jackson Wolf, a relentless ultra-endurance athlete who has conquered some of the sport’s most iconic races, including the Western States 100, Badwater 135, and the grueling Cocodona 250. Jackson shares his unique approach to training, why he often races without a crew, and how a shift in mentality turned him from a struggling 100-miler to a podium finisher. Whether you’re a seasoned ultra-runner or just curious about the mindset needed to thrive in extreme endurance, Jackson's insights on nutrition, problem-solving, and pushing past physical limits will inspire you to embrace your own endurance journey.


takeaways

  • Jackson Wolfe completed 26 races in 2023, showcasing his endurance.
  • He felt surprisingly strong after completing the Coca-Dona 250.
  • Jackson's journey into ultra running began in his mid-thirties.
  • He races to train, using races as part of his training regimen.
  • His first 100-mile race was Zion 100 in 2016.
  • Nutrition and hydration are critical for ultra running success.
  • He emphasizes the importance of perceived effort in training.
  • Jackson schedules races around his A-race goals, like Mississippi 100.
  • He has transitioned from triathlons to focusing solely on ultra running.
  • Setting controllable goals in races helps maintain a positive mindset. Jackson Wolf no longer feels nervous before races.
  • Sleep quality is crucial for multi-day races.
  • Cocodona offers a diverse and beautiful course.
  • Solo racing presents unique challenges and strategies.
  • Mentality is more important than fitness in ultra running.
  • Sleep strategies vary among ultra runners.
  • Problem-solving skills are essential during races.
  • Setting personal goals can enhance the racing experience.
  • Community engagement through hosting races is rewarding.
  • Jackson plans to host multiple races in the coming year.

https://www.instagram.com/endurance_stateofmind?igsh=cjBnanNobHhhYXNu


Up next
Oct 7
Episode 28: Rhythm & Resilience: Warren Kimball on Negative-Splitting 100 Miles
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 ... Show More
1h 10m
Sep 30
Episode 27: Bricks, Gels, and Giants: What Pogi & the Norwegians Teach Us
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 (Tra ... Show More
1h 16m
Sep 23
Episode 26: More in the Tank: The Endurance Journey of Travis Stewart
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 ... Show More
1h 4m
Recommended Episodes
May 2025
s5/e14 Can Mindfulness Make You A Better Runner?
In this episode of the Running Explained podcast, I’m breaking down a fascinating new study on mindfulness and running performance—and why I think this is something every runner needs to hear!I’ll walk you through the research (don’t worry, it’s not boring!), explain how mindfuln ... Show More
1h 3m
Mar 2025
110: How to Train for Your First Marathon With Jeff Cunningham
In this episode, I'm bringing back a crowd favorite, Jeff Cunningham, to discuss essential strategies for training for your first marathon. We cover the importance of easy miles, weekly speed workouts, and structured long runs. Jeff shares his philosophy on the 80/20 rule for eas ... Show More
1h 44m
Sep 2023
36: How I Trained For A Half Marathon
In Episode 36, Andy and Rick are joined by a special guest and much loved presenter on The Running Channel, Mo. Mo talks through his experience of Copenhagen Half Marathon, from the preparation all the way to race day as he sets out to run it in 80 minutes. The Running Channel Po ... Show More
41m 53s
Jun 2025
3001: Distance Running - How Can I Run Longer and Farther by Josh Anderson of DIY Active on How to Build Athletic Endurance
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3001: Key strategies for building endurance and running longer distances without burnout. Through practical tips on pacing, ... Show More
14m 22s
Sep 2024
85: What Does Running a PB Actually Feel Like?
We're deep into autumn marathon series and whether you're running your first ever marathon, or you're aiming for a particular time - you simply can't beat the feeling of crossing the finish line with a new personal best. Andy, Rick and Sarah delve into what running a PB actually ... Show More
41m 59s
Aug 2024
[REPLAY] Hervé Mathoux "Du 10km au marathon, à la force du mental" - Le Marathon de New York
Course Epique fait une brève (qui a dit méritée ;) ? pause estivale. Je vous propose de redécouvrir ici l'un de vos épisodes préférés de ces derniers mois avec Hervé Mathoux, iconique journaliste sportif et présentateur du Canal Football Club depuis 15 ans. Le 5 novembre dernier, ... Show More
1h 7m
Jun 2024
072: Survive The Night: Recapping BPN’s 50 Mile Overnight Ultra
Today, Hope and Tony are joining me to relive the adventure of BPN's 50-mile overnight ultra. This race truly embodied who we are as a brand—a gritty race where runners are challenged to hold the standard. Not only were the runners unaware of the course or location until the ... Show More
1h 30m
Jan 2025
[EXTRAIT] Un rêve olympique : le Marathon pour Tous du mentaliste Fabien Olicard
J'ai le plaisir de recevoir un invité exceptionnel dans cet épisode : Fabien Olicard, mentaliste, auteur, conférencier et créateur aux multiples talents, qui partage une facette méconnue de son parcours : son aventure personnelle avec la course à pied. Fabien revient sur ses débu ... Show More
5m 46s
Jun 2024
From 3:51 to 3:24 Marathon, Training and Racing Tips by John B
Thanks to LMNT for sponsoring this video! Head to https://DrinkLMNT.com/FLO to get your free sample pack with any purchase. John Birtchet-Sharpe is a 55 year old runner and member of our Personal Best Running Coaching Program. Over the past 5 years he has improved from being over ... Show More
1h 7m
Jan 2024
691. Gabi Rooker, 2:24 Marathoner
"You take what you have and make the most of it." Gabi Rooker was an anti-running competitive gymnast growing up. After college, she began working full-time as an internal medicine physician's assistant. Now, she's headed to the U.S. Olympic Team Trials Marathon as the eighth-fas ... Show More
1h 9m