#102 Jon Eisen | Navigating Barkley, Finding Your Why, & Bushwhacking Your Way To Your Dreams
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“Running became my way to process grief, build community, and explore the edges of what’s possible.”
In this episode, Jon Eisen joins Troy Meadows to unpack a journey that goes far beyond miles. Jon’s career in tech didn’t prepare him for the kind of grit and self‑discovery he found on the trails, especially when he set his sights on the infamous Barkley Marathons. On the way he picked up ultra finishes at events like Niwot’s Challenge and the Yucca Bar Massacre, embraced navigation‑heavy racing, and turned running into a tool for resilience and community.
Highlights:
How Jon went from programming to pursing ultra adventures—with little thought for convention.
What draws him to Barkley‑style races: the unknown, the navigational challenge, the refusal to accept a “normal” race.
Key training takeaways: establishing strength, avoiding injury through smart prep, embracing weekly yoga and strength work (yes, even for ultra runners).
Motivational nuggets: How showing up matters more than finishing; how joy in running can exist alongside the grind; why community and purpose matter just as much as pace.
Practical tips: For runners looking to level up in 2025—whether you’re chasing 50 miles or chasing meaning—you’ll hear what made the difference for Jon.
Jon’s links:
IG: @mildly_athletic
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ultrarunning, Barkley Marathons, Niwot’s Challenge, San Diego 100, navigation race, trail running, strength training, injury prevention, community running, “running with problems”, perseverance