We Are Superman

Tyler Andrews is a good friend with whom I've done trips with to Peru, Ecuador, and most recently, the Atacama Desert of Chile where we climbed up to almost 20,000 feet.  Ty was a self-described high school nerd musician who went on to be an average D3 cross country runner. After battling depression, Ty dedicated himself to becoming a pro mountain runner, which has seen him set numerous FKTs on some of the most iconic tall peaks in the world, including Aconcagua, Kilimanjaro, and Cotopaxi. One recent FKT in the Himalayas has been commemorated in the very cool short film “9 Hours on Manaslu” that you can watch on YouTube and is definitely worth 27 minutes of your time. To show his breadth, Ty also holds the record for the Leadville Marathon and has run in the U.S. Olympic marathon trials. He is a La Sportiva-sponsored athlete and is founder of the Chaski Endurance Collective, which coaches ultramarathoners. Which all leads us to this riveting WASP appearance, on which we chat about his recent attempts to set the FKT for running up Mt. Everest, both with and without supplemental oxygen. How incredible does that sound? I won't ruin the story for you, but Ty will talk about the what, when, how, and why for this audacious project and all of the logistics and challenges involved. For some really great content that gets very granular about how Ty did this, I highly recommend you go listen to his 21-part podcast series called Ty's Training: Talking with my Dad.  It's fascinating hearing some of the innovative methods Ty used to train for this quest that pushed him harder than he's ever been challenged before. I'm sure you'll love this story.Tyler Andrews:Facebook Tyler Andres AndrewsInstagram and Twitter: @tylercandrewsChaski Endurance Collective:www.chaski.run/linktreeInstagram: @chaski.enduranceBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastPlease support Team Leadville and Warriors' Ascent help prevent veteran suicide! Donate here:https://give.classy.org/BillStahl2025Thank you!Subscribe to the We Are Superman Newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/dab62cfc01f8/newsletter-signupSubscribe to our Substack for my archive of articles of coaching tips developed from my more than three decades of experience, wild and funny stories from my long coaching career, the wit and wisdom of David, and highlights of some of the best WASP episodes from the past that I feel are worthwhile giving another listen.Search either We Are Superman Podcast or @billstahl8

One of the most badass racers I know is Kat Edwards Anderson. She has been on the WASP twice before, most recently on episode #327 in January, chatting about her runs at the Sedona Canyons 125 and the Moab 240. I first met her in Chile in March, 2024, where she impressively conquered many new challenges for her in the high Atacama Desert. She built on these experiences by overcoming blisters on her feet, menstrual cycle irregularities, heat, and mental hurdles to get on the podium at Moab. In this episode, Kat shares some great insights on her run in May at the Cocodona 250, where she finished as the 6th female. Kat took many of the lessons from Moab, along with input from her coach, Tyler Andrews, to dial in the minutiae that is required to have success at such a grueling race. Kat shares much about the custom-designed gear she used to suit her needs, and the many very sound practices that she employed for Cocodona. Naturally, there were uncontrollables like the weather, and once again, her cycle. Most notably, she generously shares her mental battles through the race, and how her crew and her faith both came through for her to get to a finish line that at times seemed improbable. This is a great chat inside the mind of a tough, focused endurance beast of a runner. Next up for Kat is some “speedwork” as she comes out here to Colorado to slay the Leadville Trail 100.Kat Edwardskatedwardspt.comInstagram @kat.elizabeth_For coaching inquiries: www.chaski.runBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastPlease support Team Leadville and Warriors' Ascent help prevent veteran suicide! Donate here:https://give.classy.org/BillStahl2025Thank you!Subscribe to the We Are Superman Newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/dab62cfc01f8/newsletter-signupSubscribe to our Substack for my archive of articles of coaching tips developed from my more than three decades of experience, wild and funny stories from my long coaching career, the wit and wisdom of David, and highlights of some of the best WASP episodes from the past that I feel are worthwhile giving another listen.Search either We Are Superman Podcast or @billstahl8

This is a classic WASP comeback story in a different kind of direction. Alex Neist is a former college and pro quarterback who seemingly had it all post-football – a thriving business career and great family – and then had it all fall apart because of his snoring. It's true, snoring. Alex found an unlikely answer with mouth taping, which he had to find on his own because he realized our healthcare system didn't espouse it because there isn't nearly the profit with it available to providers as, say, recommending meds or a CPAP machine. This kicked in his entrepreneurial spirit. Alex's philosophy toward starting a business is to identify a problem you're having and then provide a solution that others can also use to solve that issue. That led him to found Hostage Tape. He will explain to you why the provocative name. Alex says the change in one's sleep quality, and indeed in the quality of their life, is almost immediate when someone starts mouth taping. He also explains here why there is no reason to be concerned about not being able to breathe while using the product, and about a lot of other unexpected benefits that have made improvements in users' oral health, workouts, and yes, relationships. Hostage Tape now has hundreds of thousands of customers, some as well-known as Joe Rogan, and Alex's goal is to help one million people sleep better using Hostage Tape's products, which include nasal strips that have become all the rage these days for athletes, include many in the track world. Before you dismiss this as woo-woo stuff, definitely give this episode with Alex a listen – it will awaken you – or just the opposite of that – to a very simple, possibly life-changing, solution.Bill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastPlease support Team Leadville and Warriors' Ascent help prevent veteran suicide! Donate here:https://give.classy.org/BillStahl2025Thank you!Subscribe to the We Are Superman Newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/dab62cfc01f8/newsletter-signupSubscribe to our Substack for my archive of articles of coaching tips developed from my more than three decades of experience, wild and funny stories from my long coaching career, the wit and wisdom of David, and highlights of some of the best WASP episodes from the past that I feel are worthwhile giving another listen.Search either We Are Superman Podcast or @billstahl8

Colorado has always been known as a distance running hotbed, and some amazing runners have come out of our high school ranks. This episode's guests are no exception – with an added twist. Bobby Kiesewetter, from Golden View Academy, a Class 2A school in Golden understandably was very concerned when his airway would shut down while he was running, making it impossible to breathe. Perplexed doctors suspected asthma and prescribed inhalers, but to no avail. Bobby happened to see a social media post from another local runner, Benji Anderson, who had experienced the same thing and had been diagnosed with Exercise-Induced Laryngeal Obstruction, also commonly called vocal cord dysfunction. Benji connected Bobby with the doctor right here in Denver who had treated him at National Jewish Hospital, which specializes in lung and breathing research. Through extensive treatment and exercises, both young men have learned to control their breathing issue and achieved great results in their high school careers. Bobby swept the Colorado Class 2A 800, 1600, and 3200 meter titles, each by wide margins, including setting a state meet record in the 1600 of 4:17.84. He will continue his running career at Division 2 Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado. Benji, who ran for Mountain Vista High School in Highlands Ranch, has a long list of accolades, including winning the 2024 Class 5A cross country title, is a two-time champion of the prestigious Liberty Bell Invitational, both times running the 5K course in a blazing 14:48, and has been top five in the state multiple times in the 800, 1600, and 3200. His best times include an 8:46.15 in the 3200 at Arcadia, and a 4:08.03 1600 at the New Balance indoors in Boston. He has a couple of big upcoming races before he heads off to Notre Dame this fall. Among these is the Festival of Miles this week in which a star-studded high school field will be going after sub-4:00 times. This is a great chat with a couple of very nice young men who have overcome some concerning challenges, have learned about the considerable power of the running community, and who will have many more successes in the future.Benji AndersonInstagram @benji.andersonnBobby KiesewetterInstagram @bobby_kiessBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastPlease support Team Leadville and Warriors' Ascent help prevent veteran suicide! Donate here:https://give.classy.org/BillStahl2025Thank you!Subscribe to the We Are Superman Newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/dab62cfc01f8/newsletter-signupSubscribe to our Substack for my archive of articles of coaching tips developed from my more than three decades of experience, wild and funny stories from my long coaching career, the wit and wisdom of David, and highlights of some of the best WASP episodes from the past that I feel are worthwhile giving another listen.Search either We Are Superman Podcast or @billstahl8

David always had a deep appreciation for alternative and regenerative medicine. He and I have both had guests here who understand how broken our “sick care” system is and have created new pathways for those who want to take control of their health in ways the American system won't allow. One such pioneer is Jay Campbell, co-founder of BioLongevity Labs. Jay's lifelong mission is to inspire and empower others to optimize their health, reverse aging, and unlock their true human potential – physically, mentally, and emotionally. In this dynamic chat, he and I talk about what's going on in the U.S. state of health, and Jay gives great insights into the benefits of balancing hormones, most notably testosterone, for both men, and in underrated ways, for women, too. Once that balance is achieved, then one can potentially take the next steps into administering therapeutic peptides that can transform health, from cellular regeneration, to anti-aging, losing fat, hormonal balance, and beyond. Really intriguing topics on which Jay certainly raised my understanding. You'll gain a lot in this episode from Jay's immense store of knowledge.Jay Campbellwww.jaycampbell.comwww.biolongevitylabs.comInstagram, X, and YouTube @jaycampbell333Bill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastSubscribe to the We Are Superman Newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/dab62cfc01f8/newsletter-signupSubscribe to our Substack for my archive of articles of coaching tips developed from my more than three decades of experience, wild and funny stories from my long coaching career, the wit and wisdom of David, and highlights of some of the best WASP episodes from the past that I feel are worthwhile giving another listen.Search either We Are Superman Podcast or @billstahl8

I have been amused that 200-mile races have become a thing, and some now even call 100-milers a “speed event.” But now Destination Races, which hosts a series of 200-mile races has created the Arizona Monster 300 with a cutoff of 170 hours, or just more than 7 days. Good friend of the WASP Kelly Thrush ran its inaugural edition a few weeks ago. You might remember Kelly from WASP episodes #231 and 232 in November, 2022 after he completed 85 miles at the AHR following receiving a liver transplant. That two-part episode is definitely worth a re-listen as he described years of alcohol abuse that led to not only the deterioration of his liver, but alienating most of his family and friends, and put him on the doorstep of death. He awoke from surgery feeling immense gratitude, which has driven his life since then, including the founding of the Gratitude and Grace Foundation, which helps other transplant candidates and recipients navigate the financial hurdles they face. Kelly has created events to support this important mission, including an event that involves climbing laps up and down Mount Tumamoc in Tucson. In this fascinating chat, Kelly describes all aspects of taking on the enormous challenge of the Arizona Monster 300 and what it's like to be out there on the trail day and night for 7 days, how his wife and crew contributed to his finish, his fueling, sleeping, mental approach, hallucinating, and what it did to his feet. Get ready for a fun adventure!Kelly ThrushGratitude and Grace FoundationFacebook Kelly ThrushInstagram and Threads @just__keep__going_Bill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastSubscribe to the We Are Superman Newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/dab62cfc01f8/newsletter-signupSubscribe to our Substack for my archive of articles of coaching tips developed from my more than three decades of experience, wild and funny stories from my long coaching career, the wit and wisdom of David, and highlights of some of the best WASP episodes from the past that I feel are worthwhile giving another listen.Search either We Are Superman Podcast or @billstahl8

We haven't chatted with anyone in Nepal for a couple of weeks, so we thought we'd go back there with Len Forkas, who is heading to Mt. Everest to cap bagging all of the Seven Summits – the tallest peaks on all seven continents. This achievement also brings him a step closer to completing the coveted Explorers' Grand Slam, which includes the Seven Summits and trekking the last degree of latitude to the North and South Poles. He began his quest in 2013 summitting Kilimanjaro after accomplishing endurance feats like biking the Race Across America. Len does all of this to support a charity he founded called Hopecam, which does amazing work connecting cancer-afflicted kids to their schools and classmates. It was spurred after his own son Matt was diagnosed with leukemia when he was 9, and aside from the daunting treatments, Matt endured the challenge of isolation from his friends. Back in 2002, there was no Facetime or Skype, so Len arranged for a video connection between Matt and his class, and Len noticed what a sea change that was for Matt's overall outlook, as well as how much it benefitted his classmates to interact with him and help demystify cancer to them. This led to the birth of Hopecam, which began connecting 50 hospitalized kids and led to partnering with St. Jude's Children's Hospital and eventually affiliating with 180 hospitals and helping 1000 inspiring kids at a time. A majority of these kids come from Title 1 schools and whose families often can't afford Internet service. Len has a personal connection with many of these kids, and for this Everest project, he is paired up with a fifth-grader in Louisiana. In this chat, Len talks about how teamwork plays roles in accomplishing both his projects as well as in Hopecam's important mission for which he is aiming to raise $1,000,000. You'll also hear about his many other extreme adventures and the preparations for them and about a couple of harrowing episodes he had where divine intervention may have saved his life so he could continue his mission. Len is one of the nicest people with whom I've had the pleasure to chat, and this riveting episode is filled with so many great life lessons about humility, teamwork, finding purpose, and listening to and learning from others. He also shares great lessons he's learned about uniting people to work toward common goals in his book, What Spins the Wheel.  Len Forkaslenforkas.comSupport Hopecam today at hopecam.orgInstagram @lenforkasjrLinkedIn and X Len ForkasHis books What Spins the Wheel and Cold Hard Truth are available on AmazonBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastSubscribe to the We Are Superman Newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/dab62cfc01f8/newsletter-signupSubscribe to our Substack for my archive of articles of coaching tips developed from my more than three decades of experience, wild and funny stories from my long coaching career, the wit and wisdom of David, and highlights of some of the best WASP episodes from the past that I feel are worthwhile giving another listen.Search either We Are Superman Podcast or @billstahl8

Travis Robinson was an active 35-year-old IT project manager, spending much of his leisure time in the outdoors rockclimbing, when he began noticing weakness in his hands, which is not good news for this pursuit. This led to a diagnosis of early-onset Parkinson's Disease that changed his life. Travis' response was not one of resignation to a restricted lifestyle, but more of a “Screw you, Parkinson's” attitude. That is evidenced in the theme of a podcast called I'm Not Dead Yet he co-hosts with Judy Yaros, whose husband died of the disease in 2020. Together, they talk about life adjustments caused by Parkinson's and how they are helping those afflicted and their families. But more so, it's about living their best life. To help others do the same, Travis is very involved with Parkinson's Community L.A. and the Faces of Parkinson's Project. One way he keeps physically active is with something called neuroboxing. He's also deeply engaged in photography, but using old-time cameras with the long, bellows-like lenses and where the photographer stands under a hood. The image is projected onto large-format film and Travis creates finished works on metal and other unique media that have had gallery showings across the country. His work in California's scenic landscapes evokes Ansel Adams' dramatic photography from last century. Travis has recently had to use his power of resilience once again as his and his partner's home burned down in the Eaton fire in January, and they lost everything, including all of his photographic equipment. They saved their pets and vehicles, and not much more. They expect to begin re-building in May, and undaunted, Travis is planning a photographic project in Iceland this summer. You can't help but be inspired by Travis' story!Travis RobinsonInstagram @mighty_travisListen to the I'm Not Dead Yet Podcast:https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-im-not-dead-yet-81736783/Instagram @imnotdeadyetpdBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastSubscribe to the We Are Superman Newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/dab62cfc01f8/newsletter-signupSubscribe to our Substack for my archive of articles of coaching tips developed from my more than three decades of experience, wild and funny stories from my long coaching career, the wit and wisdom of David, and highlights of some of the best WASP episodes from the past that I feel are worthwhile giving another listen.Search either We Are Superman Podcast or @billstahl8

Chris Fisher and Erin Ton are very down-to-Earth people, but they are also way-up-in-the-air. As in, they are almost constantly on a mountain, very high mountains.  And when I say constantly, I mean they are pretty much always climbing, running on, and exploring mountains, as well as challenging themselves in the wildest wildernesses. Erin is known for setting hordes of FKTs, speeding through the gauntlet of Colorado 14ers in record time, as well as climbing 14ers in high heels. Yep, you heard that right. She and Chris, who owns the current record for the least time to climb all of the 14ers in winter, spent all of last summer bagging Colorado 13ers – of which there are 100s – several of them each day. They explored Patagonia for several weeks earlier this year, taking like they always do, heaps of absolutely jaw-dropping photos of their climbs and the scenery. Chris then took on the now-infamous Barkley Marathons, so definitely listen closely to learn more about this insane, unique race. Erin and Chris describe his battle against the course, that was made even tougher this year because of the unprecedented number of finishers last year – five – the heat the runners faced, the camaraderie with some legendary Barkley participants, and of course, enigmatic race director Laz. Later on, Erin also nailed a couple of FKTs on the gnarly course herself. They are now headed to the Himalayas, where in addition to their own projects and FKT attempts that you'll hear about here, they will be supporting our mutual friend Tyler Andrews in his unfathomable attempt to set the record for running up and down Mt. Everest without supplemental oxygen. There really isn't a dull moment in this very fun chat with this power duo of the mountains, who will absolutely inspire you to find adventure in the outdoors yourself, so I'm sure you'll enjoy this chat.Chris FisherInstagram @chrisjfishStrava Christopher FisherCheck out Chris' film Nine Hours on Manaslu on LaSportiva's YouTube channelErin TonInstagram @erin_ton7Strava Erin TonTyler Andrews' podcast: Ty's Training: Talking with my DadBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastSubscribe to the We Are Superman Newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/dab62cfc01f8/newsletter-signup

Melissa Davey took the adage about it's never too late to try something new quite seriously. This wasn't about jumping out of an airplane kind of stuff. In her sixties, she retired from a lengthy corporate career to pursue her second act and dream of becoming a filmmaker. I always tell teens I coach or meet who are stressed about picking a college major and choosing a career path, that the average American changes careers, not just jobs, seven times in their lifetimes. You never know when circumstances allow you to drop the grind and forge a new direction, like you heard Australian Maddy Reynolds do in a WASP episode a few weeks ago when she dumped the corporate world to become a pro trail runner. Melissa was the Vice President of Social Security and Managed Disability at GENEX for 22 years, sat on the company's executive team, and worked throughout the United States to create and deliver services to the disability insurance marketplace. But after a day on the set with famed screenwriter and filmmaker M Night Shyamalan, she decided to take a risk and left her career to jump into the unknown. Pursuing her dream of becoming a filmmaker became a reality in late 2018 when Melissa completed her first feature film, Beyond Sixty, which highlights stories of women making similar jumps, including the woman behind the original voice of Siri, the Madam CJ Walker biographer, and the sculptor of Lady Gaga's Fame perfume carriage. During 2019, Melissa's film was accepted by and screened at eight film festivals throughout the United States and Canada, winning awards and confirming that it is never too late to learn something new. Picked up by a distributor and released in 2021, the film is currently available on most streaming platforms. Melissa's second film, Climbing into Life, details the inspiring life story of Dierdre Wolownick, the oldest woman to ascend El Capitan, who also happens to be the mother of famed free solo climber Alex Honnold. The film is currently making the film festival rounds. Melissa is a champion to show that it isn't too late for people over 60, particularly women to explore new pathways and make a profound impact on the world. It's such a great message to share, and she does it with an infectious energy as you'll find out in this episode.Melissa Daveymelissadavey.combeyondsixty.commelissa@melissadavey.comFacebook Beyond Sixty DocumentaryInstagram @beyond60project and @climbing_into_lifeBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastSubscribe to the We Are Superman Newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/dab62cfc01f8/newsletter-signup

The WASP has had a long history of inspiring stories about people overcoming alcoholism and addictions, but I really like the story and approach presented here by Tom Barnum. He is a former college and NFL player, who was on two teams that won the Super Bowl, including the 1972 Dolphins who is still the only team to complete an undefeated season – although in each case he only made it to the taxi squad. It was a culture that encouraged drinking, steroid use, and gambling. After engaging in these destructive behaviors for many years, as well as going through recovery, AA meetings, and learning about Buddhist principles, Tom developed a deep understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of many of these paths that can take one from ruin to sobriety. He sees even more perils in today's society where younger and younger kids have access to drugs and to phone app gambling, and where the justice system is an ineffective deterrent. Tom shares his insights in his book Sobriety Is A Team Sport, where he emphasizes the power of enlisting support networks—family, friends, healthcare professionals, and spiritual guidance—in overcoming addiction. He writes candidly about the evolving landscape of addiction, the necessity of surrender, and the limitations of punitive legal approaches in addressing substance use disorders. His teachings integrate elements of mindfulness and Buddhism, offering a holistic perspective on sustainable sobriety. The culture of discipline, resilience, and mental toughness—while important for success—can also create a dangerous stigma around seeking help, making it difficult for individuals to admit they are struggling. As a former athlete, Tom shares his personal experience with addiction and how the fear of appearing weak kept him from seeking support for years. He challenges the misconception that surrender is failure, explaining instead how true strength lies in acknowledging the need for help and embracing recovery as a team effort. Tom also explores how shifting from a hyper-competitive mindset to one of community and support can make all the difference in sustaining long-term sobriety, helping high performers reframe their approach to both success and healing. Of the many WASP guests discussing their sobriety, I find Tom's down-to-Earth approach makes an awful amount of sense.Tom Barnumwww.stilltom.comFacebook Sobriety Is A Team SportInstagram @stilltom462206Bill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastSubscribe to the We Are Superman Newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/dab62cfc01f8/newsletter-signup

This is the type of adventure story you don't get to hear about very often. You very likely know something about Alaska's Iditarod Trail dog-sledding race, a grueling, multiday wilderness endurance test from Anchorage to Nome. Did you know that there is also a race where humans bike, ski, and run on the course? Leadville's own Mitch Dulleck trained for months in the high Rockies and then attended a camp in Alaska to prepare to run the Iditarod Trail Invitational 150-mile race. There was no designated route as he pulled a sled with all of his gear, the only rule being that he had to pass through several checkpoints. The entrants truly have to be self-sufficient in that sometimes-harsh environment. For instance, the race organizers don't promise any rescue should some misfortune befall racers. Competitors need to problem-solve for themselves while enduring possible issues with weather, terrain, injuries, wildlife, and more. Few of us will ever get to breathe the air in such beautiful and serene wilderness, much less race there, so I don't have to tell you that Mitch will be describing a very unique outdoor endurance experience that will have you fascinated as much as it did me, including discussing his training, food, equipment, and seeing the aurora borealis, all of which has stoked Mitch's fire to go back and try the Iditarod Trail's even more challenging 350-mile race.Mitch DulleckFacebook Mitch DulleckInstagram @1mtnrnr1Bill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastSubscribe to the We Are Superman Newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/dab62cfc01f8/newsletter-signup

Listing 285-pound defensive lineman or being the fifth-ranked high schooler in the nation in the discus on your resume aren't typical prerequisites for running across America. But former big guy Mason Wright, who at 17 years old could bench press 450 pounds and squat 685 pounds will be doing exactly that, and not that “short” way, either. He won't just run from one coast to the other, but from corner to corner, Seattle to Miami. But first this April he will run across Utah from north to south in eight days, averaging about 55 miles a day. He will be doing all of this to raise funds for the Single Parent Project, after having witnessed his mom's struggles following Mason's dad's imprisonment and then the sudden death of her second husband. The family's struggles also led Mason to some very dark, even suicidal, places. With the very strong support of his wife and her family, they introduced Mason to Spartan racing, which then led him to shed triple-digits weight and eventually enter his first trail ultramarathons and a top-20 finish in the Spartan World Championship just two years later. Along the way, he has developed a large following among those who know him as the Buff Runner. He inspires them to join the Buff Runner Army and take the small steps to challenge themselves every day. His fitness journey has guided him to earn bachelor's and master's degrees in the health and nutrition field, and to open a nutrition practice and a rehab gym facility. His fundraising goal for his run across Utah is $15K, and he hopes to raise a total of $100K with his Project 3434 run across America, the 3434 miles he will cover to support the Single Parent Project, which assists families that don't have resources get back on their feet, whether they need help with rent, groceries, transportation, schooling, getting kids into activities, etc. The links to contribute are below, which are also on his web site, buffrunner.com, where you can also find information about joining him in any of his events leading up to the run across America. Buckle up to listen to this fun journey.Mason WrightBuffrunner.comInstagram, YouTube, and TikTok @buffrunnerBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastSubscribe to the We Are Superman Newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/dab62cfc01f8/newsletter-signup

I want you to explore the world! With a little creativity and ingenuity--and a willingness to get out of your comfort zone--you can have experiences that will open your eyes to people and places that will enhance your life in ways you can't imagine. In this episode, I describe my trip in October to places many people don't often visit. It began with a cruise with my family--including my parents who are in their 90s--beginning in Lisbon and stopping in Madeira, the Canary Islands, Morocco, and Spain. Following debarkation in Barcelona, without any plans at all, I rented a car and drove to Carcassonne, France, the tiny, wealthy, Pyrenees Mountains country of Andorra, then through the Spanish cities of Pamplona, San Sebastián, Bilbao, Laguardia, Logroño, Zaragoza, and Barcelona. It was quite the adventure navigating roads in foreign countries and figuring out accommodations and food. There were plenty of challenges and surprises, and I think you'll enjoy riding along on these adventures!Bill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastSubscribe to the We Are Superman Newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/dab62cfc01f8/newsletter-signup

I first met Max Madorsky when the kids on my cross country team at Littleton H.S. invited me to join them at an all-you-can-eat sushi joint in the southern suburbs of Denver. They had invited along this guy who had this amazing capacity to shovel in food. This restaurant couldn't have been too pleased seeing Max down eight plates of sushi all by himself. I happen to have a remarkable ability to consume large amounts of pizza, so right away I knew Max was my guy to win a challenge from a local parlor in which if two people would win $100 if they could eat a 28”, two-topping pie in an hour. Max and I crushed this prize in only 45 minutes. Because 28” is not just double 14” (think pi-r-squared), that's something like 14 pounds of pizza. And then Max weaseled a couple of those oversized chocolate-chip cookies out of them, and later went out and ate a handful of doughnuts! What I didn't know at the time is that Max was relatively svelte at the time, having weighed close to 300 pounds a few years prior as an eighth-grader! Max got bullied for his size and resorted to using drugs to mask his feelings. Some great mentors introduced Max to martial arts like jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, and kickboxing. It was scary for a young Max when one of these mentors got deployed to Iraq, so this soldier promised Max he would return home alive if Max would turn around his life. With that kind of motivation, Max did indeed. He eventually became a professional mixed-martial arts fighter, and has lived in Thailand and Mexico both perfecting his craft and teaching others. During a time in Thailand in which he was injured, Max even opened up a bagel shop/marijuana dispensary! Now Max is additionally pursuing a standup comedy career. It's a great comeback story from someone who got bullied when he was as young as 8 for his weight. With these and other twists and turns, I'm sure you'll enjoy hearing Max's compelling story.Max MadorskyInstagram @maxmadorsky @muaythaijew @toebraBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastSubscribe to the We Are Superman Newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/dab62cfc01f8/newsletter-signup

Even though Maddy Reynolds was not a runner, COVID-19 spurred her and her homebound friends to start running around the limited area they were allowed to in their neighborhood in Sydney, Australia. On a lark, they decided to run their own marathon. Once racing resumed, Maddy ran an actual marathon. Then she was encouraged to try trail running and next racing. You can see where this is going. Maddy eventually took the risky leap, quitting her secure job as an investment banker to become a full-time runner. By 2023, successes started to accrue. After a runner-up finish in the Six Foot Track Marathon, one of Australia's most prestigious races, Maddy was chosen to represent her country at the World Mountain and Trail Championships in Austria. Her crowning result for the year was winning the UTMB Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko 50K. She followed up that ascendent year with a string of top-10 trail race finishes in 2024, including a win at the Trail de Lac d'Oô in the Pyrenees. Like any upward trajectory, there were bumps in the road. Maddy suffered a stress fracture in her calcaneus, or heel bone, following Kosciuszko. The most serious, though, was after she sustained a serious bacterial eye infection due to a contact lens mistake. Doctors considered removing her eye, but were able to save it, although her vision was severely fogged over. Amazingly, Maddy continued to progress despite very limited depth perception, certainly a huge impediment for a trail runner, leading to numerous falls, including a cracked kneecap. Just last week came a double-dose of positives. First, Maddy's doctors got her a new kind of contact lens that has restored her sight. A truly “Holy Crap, I can see” moment. Ironically, it's the same kind of lens that has also salvaged my vision. Using her new visual acuity, Maddy finished second in New Zealand's UTMB Tarawera Ultra-Trail 52K. Although the race buildup did not go without some crazy, maybe even hilarious, hiccups, as you'll hear. None of these incidents can deter Maddy, who explains the big chance she took on herself, and led her to move to France with her boyfriend to advance her career. She is a font of positivity, and feeds upon the community that is running. She has some huge days ahead of her, and we had a very fun and engaging chat, so I hope you'll enjoy this and follow her as she establishes herself as a force in the trail running world.Maddy ReynoldsInstagram @maddyreynolds98Bill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

I love when people don't accept the status quo from the medical field. One disease where there is no known cure, and not much is known about its cause or treatments for it, is Parkinson's an uncurable neurological disease. So Scott Hanley of Belfast, Northern Ireland chose a different path to dealing with getting diagnosed with it, and as a result believes he has reduced his symptoms by 95%! Repeat, 95%! That's simply unheard of. He didn't do anything magic, take any banned substances, or sell his soul to the Devil. Parkinson's patients are usually instructed to engage their minds more. Scott added to this advice with some very commonsense approaches, including tweaking his nutrition and moving his body. But Scott reasoned that just doing cardio would actually be more mind-numbing, so this former Royal Army soldier engaged in short-burst exercises, which he could easily do during the lockdown of the pandemic. This eventually led him to a CrossFit gym in Belfast, where he found a community to engage with and where he has become an inspirational participant.  Scott has found the CrossFit workouts have continued to keep his mind and body strong and moving, so much so that for a couple of years, many in the gym weren't even aware of his Parkinson's. Scott's experiences have given him a unique perspective into resilience, and he shares his story, which might motivate anyone to also find their own solutions when facing a tough medical diagnosis.Scott HanleyInstagram @thrive_happensBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

As the world's population ages, more and more of us are affected by diseases, truly horrible diseases, like Alzheimer's. The latest studies show that 1/3 of seniors will have some level of dementia by the time they pass away. That's staggering. Alzheimer's now afflicts more Americans than breast and prostate cancers combined. Seven million people living in this country have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's, plus 11 million more are caregivers for these patients. There's not much that's tougher than watching a loved one's mental faculties decline to the point that they are almost-unrecognizable. In this episode, I chat with Brian Tatum of the Alzheimer's Association, which is doing amazing things in funding research into Alzheimer's causes and treatment, as well as providing critical support for caregivers, for whom tending to a loved one's decline can be another full-time job. The Association also hosts the Ride 2 End ALZ, an opportunity for anyone to hop on their bike to help raise money to aid them to fund more research and support services like a 24/7 hotline that is staffed by Master's-level experts. The ride is a super cool and supportive event, as described in this episode also by Steve Mollen, who I randomly met at a Colfax Marathon committee meeting where we'd initially connected talking about New York sports. Steve enthusiastically describes the community created at this ride, one of six in the country, by the Alzheimer's Association. He has participated in the ride in Fort Collins, Colo., which has distances ranging from 23 to 75 miles and this year will be on June 8. It's a very significant event that is geared for anyone to do, or you can ride virtually and/or support riders like Steve by donating on their fundraising pages. It's very likely you and a loved one have been impacted by Alzheimer's, so please consider getting involved with the Ride 2 End ALZ and fighting this terrible disease. If you choose to support Steve in particular, his fundraising page info is below.Alzheimer's Association Ride 2 End ALZalz.com/rideSteve's personal ride page: https://act.alz.org/site/TR/Ride2025/Ride?px=22795655&pg=personal&fr_id=18284Alzheimer's Associationalz.com24/7 Helpline: 800-272-3900Facebook, Instagram, and XBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

It's always great to jumpstart a new year talking again with Dan Herman of Dan Herman Performance. We are past the so-called quit day after which many people's resolutions have gone down the drain, so Dan and I talk about both setting goals as well as how to keep them going. The great thing about Dan is he how he can present ideas in relatable ways that are not just pulled out of a textbook, and puts them into actionable steps that you can easily work in your everyday life. For those who haven't heard him on previous WASP episodes, Dan once weighed 375 pounds, then bought his first running shoes and lost one-third of his weight. He embraced movement and strength and began sharing his knowledge with others. He eventually quit his job to train others full-time and now he is fully committed to helping people transform into the strongest and most authentic versions of themselves. You might want to be ready to take some notes because his commonsense approaches born from overcoming his own struggles I think make listening to him as enlightening as anyone you will hear.Dan Hermandanhermanperformance.comFacebook, Instagram, and YouTube @danhermanperformanceBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

I have always thought that everyone has a sport or activity in which they could be world-class, but sometimes we haven't tried it and discovered which one it is. Maybe it's karate or curling or backgammon. Or as I've told kids I've coached in track that to get ahead, rather than run a common event like the 100 meters, try an event that few others do like the pole vault, triple jump, or 300-meter hurdles. Ultramarathoning is obviously a niche sport, as is an Olympic sport I've always liked, fencing. My interest goes back to my days as a sportswriter for the University of Pennsylvania student newspaper. You get assigned to cover so-called minor sports as a freshman, and one team I drew was the Penn fencing team. I learned quickly to admire both the skills and endurance of some of the best fencers in the NCAA. So even after I worked my way up the ladder to reporting on the basketball and football teams, I asked to still cover the fencing team, and even became something of a de facto team manager. Later, when Denver hosted the 1989 World Fencing Championships, I was named press liaison between the organization and journalists who had come from around the globe to cover the event. Today, I do alumni interviews for applicants to Penn, and I had the opportunity to chat with a dynamic local high school senior named Patrick Li, who I found out has fenced since he was in 4th-grade. Patrick has discovered the benefits of pushing himself to excel and realized the benefits of having a supportive community around him. In turn, Patrick has been generously giving back to expose kids and disabled individuals to the sport, so they can enjoy it as much as he has. I'm impressed with how much this young man, who hopes to major in behavioral economics in college, is willing to put in to help others. Along the way in this chat, you'll also learn a bit about this sport they call “physical chess,” and hopefully have some appreciation if you see it on TV during the 2028 Olympics in L.A. Maybe go to a local fencing club and find out for yourself if it could be your own gold medal sport!Patrick Lipli2006118@gmail.com720-220-6495Instagram @patrick__li__Bill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

We are heading back Down Under for this episode to speak with a super-inspirational Aussie named Paul Jamieson, who at the age of 32 suffered a severe traumatic brain injury in a freak wakeboarding accident. He spent the following half a year in a hospital before being released to a rehab facility that for years basically had no hope for him and did little more than feed him puréed foods. Remarkably, these life-altering events transformed him into an extremely positive person. Paul used to be highly critical and negative, but post-accident, he has completely eradicated negativity from his life. We are joined by Dan Dougherty, who I've coached both when he was in high school back in the 90s and as an adult, and who has helped guide Paul at Jigsaw Australia, a company that provides training and employment for disabled people. Paul's ultimate goal is to live independently and secure meaningful work in a mainstream job, with the dream of becoming a motivational speaker. His journey has been arduous – after his accident, he was in a vegetative state and bedridden for years, unable to communicate except by blinking his eyes or to sit up because his legs were totally straight and stiff. However, inspired to make a change, Paul, with the help of his dedicated therapy team, has taken life one step at a time, re-learning how to speak and eat. Initially, he couldn't even bend his knees enough to complete one rotation on a stationary bicycle. Through excruciating hard work, now his goal is to walk 600 meters to the local café – he's currently able to cover more than half of that. Paul's sense of humor and ability to inspire others to believe in their dreams, seek help when needed, and maintain a positive outlook are truly remarkable, so I think you'll enjoy hearing from this very inspirational Aussie.Listen to more on Paul's story on the Spotify podcast series, Beyond the Impact - Paul's Recovery Storyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/7v5KK6LrU9TBU3cM21lCXMBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

Let's start off 2025 with someone who had a breakout 2024, and like the final episode of last year with Mary Denholm, in which there is a lot of great information from which to learn. I met the impressive Kat Edwards while on a mountain-climbing adventure with Tyler Andrews' Chaski Endurance Collective in Chile's Atacama Desert. This was the now-25-year-old's first trip outside of the U.S., and in fact, she had barely even left the Eastern time zone before. It was part of a year in which she not only got out of her comfort zone, but she walked right up to the ledge and jumped off. Kat grew up in an athletic family and was always very active herself, and dabbled in high school and college running, but didn't take it seriously until 2021. Kat has always had a lot of drive, both for herself as well as for the athletes she coaches, so down in Chile she set FKTs for the ascent and roundtrip on Nevado San Francisco, the highest peak we climbed, which tops out at more than 6000 meters, or just under 20,000 feet. Without a ton of ultramarathon racing experience under her belt, Kat soon after experienced some hard lessons competing in the Petzl Trail Plus 80k in Ecuador that probably added to her arsenal when she won the Sedona Canyons 125 this past spring in 30:21:16. In October, she took third-place in her first 200-mile effort, the Moab 240, where she battled the heat, sleep deprivation, and very tough foot issues. In between, Kat married her long-time partner and fellow endurance junkie, Jason Anderson, who has now been enlisted as Kat's forever crew leader. As young adventure-seekers without big endorsement dollars at this point, you'll hear about how they engineered the logistics to get to Moab in the first place, which was not always assured, and how their strong faith in God helped them overcome the many obstacles it took for Kat to score such an incredible achievement. Kat also generously shares many of the techniques she has employed to see such amazing early success in her career, including her devotion to strength training. There's lots to gain listening to this Kat chat. I think also that if you are a young, aspiring endurance athlete, you might do very well to connect with Kat as a coach at the Chaski Endurance Collective at chaski.runKat Edwardskatedwardspt.comInstagram @kat.elizabeth_For coaching inquiries: www.chaski.runBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

I thought it would be good to end the year with someone who had a mind-blowing 2024. Mary Denholm finished it off at the JFK 50-miler, where she was the second female with a time of 6:04:15, which was faster than the previous course record. Her summer in Leadville really stood out. She won the very difficult marathon under four hours. Due to the schedule shift this year, the Silver Rush 50-Mile was just one week later, but Mary breezed to a 28-minute victory, good for fourth overall. She capped the summer off by winning the Leadville Trail 100 by three hours, which was ninth overall. Her time of 18:23:51 was second-fastest in history, only 16 minutes behind legendary Ann Trason. In this very informative episode, hear the mechanics of how Mary pulled off this impressive year. She also shares very essential keys to her overall success, including how she executes her high-caloric, mostly plant-based diet, has added strength training, and how she has preserved having a menstrual cycle. There is a treasure trove of great knowledge in here. Finally, Mary shares a fantastic account of her JFK 50, which featured an inspiring comeback from a very bad place she was in during the race, stayed calm, turned it around, and closed with a 6:00 mile. A lot to learn there. Mary has some big plans for the upcoming year that will be sure to further fire you up for your own epic goals for 2025.Mary DenholmInstagram @eatrunandbemaryStravaBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

It's time for our annual tradition started by David of Sober F*cking Christmas.  As you may know, in his book Out There, David describes how on one Christmas Eve, on one of his usual stumbling drunk days before he got sober, he was attempting to wrap his kids' Christmas gifts, but was so hammered that all he could do was crumple newspaper around them and bind it up with duct tape before passing out.  Christmas morning, the kids opened the embarrassing messes while he nursed his hangover. That would be the proverbial rock-bottom that caused him to finally pull out of the abyss of addiction he had been in to eventually become the motivational wonder that he became. So this episode has become a staple that always rates among the most-downloaded episodes year-in and year-out.As we wind down 2024, thanks again to all of you for listening to the WASP.  Please make sure you subscribe so you can load all new episodes onto your phone.  If you enjoyed the podcast, the best thing you can do is share it with your friends or on social media, and please do me a favor and take 60 seconds and give us a five-star rating on whatever platform on which you listen to us.  I would also be humbly honored if you would write a review as well.  These five-star ratings and reviews really do help!  Again, Happy Holidays and Sober F*cking Christmas to you.  Until next time, always be positive!Gary Stotlergarystotler.comFacebook Gary StotlerInstagram @_garystotler_Find his latest book, "Success is Spelled Action" on AmazonChad PrichardInstagram @rn_leadman_chadEd BarnetteFacebook Ed BarnetteInstagram @ed.barnetteBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

Meghan Hunter was an eight-time state track champion in Utah at Provo High School, including 2018 when she swept titles in the 100, 200, 400, and 800 meters, an almost-unheard-of spread of talent. Her impressive times included a blazing state record of 52.59 seconds in the 400. She earned herself a berth on the U.S. Youth Olympics team and got to compete in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Her natural progression took her to her dream of competing collegiately at BYU. Then on July 4, 2019, she and her brother Morgan were on the way to volunteer at a race when Morgan swerved to avoid hitting a deer on the road, and rolled their car five times. Meghan broke the C3, C4, and C5 vertebrae in her neck and doctors told her that she would probably never again run at the same level she had. Naturally, Meghan wasn't satisfied with that answer, and began the arduous process to get back to running and competing at a high level. Nineteen months later, Meghan was back with her BYU teammates, but still had to confront another nemesis caused by the crash, PTSD. It's something she still continuously has to work through, but by this year, the results have been coming around. She was third in the 800 meters in the NCAA indoor championships, got her time down to 2:00.75 at the Portland Track Festival, and got to compete at the Olympic Trials in Eugene, Oregon. She was named a finalist for the Honda Inspiration Award, and has just signed an NIL deal with Nike. Quite the whirlwind of a year! What I love about Meghan and her story is her relentless positivity in the face of these struggles. Even in her neck brace in the hospital with her family, she was sporting a huge smile. At the same time, she graduated from BYU with a degree in communications disorders, and is aiming to work in the field of speech, language, and pathology. How cool is that? I hope you enjoy this chat with this delightful young woman with an inspiring story and become a fan of hers like I am as she ascends a very promising ladder in the track world.Meghan HunterInstagram @meghan_annneBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

I have one more great guest with an awesome story who ran the American Heroes Run this year. James Gaa completed 36 laps, or about 37 miles, of the 9 hour and 11 minute run. Pretty darn good for a guy who only began running a little more than a year prior. James had been primarily spending his time in the weight room before deciding to start to run in 2023, and has done so every day since. It's launched him on a journey to help him overcome the traumas of an abusive childhood and the drug-related death of his mother. His first goal was to run a marathon. Check. Then an ultramarathon. Check. Both of which almost didn't happen after a heavy table base fell on his head in a warehouse at his job. James has a very well-developed perspective on how all of these events have shaped his life as well as on his journey to discover how far he can test himself, so I think you'll gain a lot listening to this chat. I really enjoyed learning a bit about his story at the AHR, and a lot of it more here. I'm excited to see how far James will venture on this personal adventure.James Gaa@jamesgaaMapMyRun James GaaBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

Just in time for Thanksgiving and the holidays, I am very excited to bring you this chat with Leah Garcés, the CEO of Mercy for Animals, which is promoting a campaign to Pardon a Turkey. The idea is to celebrate the holidays in a kinder way by sparing the life of a beautiful, intelligent animal, and instead substituting other delicious and healthy dishes. Tens of millions of turkeys are artificially gorged to an insane weight and then killed each year for Thanksgiving alone. To help the meal preparers in your family, Mercy for Animals has created an impressive downloadable cookbook that has easy-to-follow directions and videos for a dozen very tasty-sounding recipes for vegan apple-cranberry stuffing, vegan mashed potatoes, vegan sweet potato casserole with marshmallows, and a crispy vegan turkey roast. Yum! The cookbook is totally free on their website, mercyforanimals.com Mercy for Animals has been at the forefront of trying to create a more humane world that ensures the health of everyone on the planet by specifically trying to move us away from factory farming, which not only perpetuates shocking, cruel methods, but endangers our health in many ways, whether through the pollution it causes to deadly outbreaks of e.coli, salmonella, etc. It is also an enormously inefficient use of the Earth's rapidly shrinking arable land that needs to feed an ever-growing population. One particularly innovative program is called Transfarmation, that is helping chicken farmers that are caught up in the grind of subservience to massive conglomerates to convert their farms to growing plants and thus achieving a better balance in their lives, and get this, more profitability. Don't be turned away from this episode if you are a dedicated meat eater, which is fine. Leah does a fantastic job of educating and making it easy to make a small difference in the world. Did you know that Americans on average eat 30 animals a year?  Even one meatless day a week can spare several animals from the torture of factory farming, and you know what? You will be healthier, too, which is a nice benefit. So enjoy this lively chat, and Pardon a Turkey this holidays!Leah GarcésMercyForAnimals.orgInfo@MercyForAnimals.orgFacebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn  Mercy For AnimalsThreads and YouTube @mercyforanimalsTikTok mercyforanimals_usBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

Despite the beginning of more focus now on mental health, especially after the well-publicized battles that were brought forward by gymnast Simone Biles and tennis player Naomi Osaka, there is still a stigma for men to seek assistance, unless you count the omnipresent TV commercials by the affable, mustachioed Dr. Rich Mahogany for mantherapy.org Soleiman Bolour has tapped into his own journey to assist men in their personal growth to find greater clarity, confidence, and intention. Whether the individual is in addiction recovery, dealing with unresolved trauma, or just trying to identify a focused sense of purpose, Soleiman mentors men and guides their journeys by tapping into his studies in psychology, tantra, tao, NLP (neuro linguistic programming), and much more. He both does one-on-one coaching as well as leads groups, where they explore, among other things, how to balance productivity vs. mindfulness. The basic elements that they build upon include 1. Building a foundation, 2. Creating a vision, 3. Identifying what needs to change, and 4. Execution. I see some real opportunities here for men if you are dealing with being unable to set boundaries, holding yourself back because you are always trying to please other people, and those who want to improve their relationships to thus unlock the doors to personal growth. Soleiman can explain all of this a lot better than I can, so I think you'll get a lot out of this chat, as well as checking out the blogs and other information on his website, soleimanb.com, and perhaps engaging with him either one-on-one or in his men's groups. By the way, he limits the size of each one to 12 men, so you develop a more focused relationship with others who have a common purpose.Soleiman Bolourwww.soleimanb.cominfo@soleimanb.comFacebook and LinkedIn Soleiman BolourInstagram and YouTube @soleimanbolourTik Tok soleimanbBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

I met Chaiwen Chou on the trip I took in March to the Atacama Desert of Chile that was led by Tyler Andrews of Chaski Endurance Collective. Two things immediately stood out about Chaiwen: one was her gorgeous purple hair, and the second was the boot on her foot. As you know, this was no tourist cruise, we were going to be climbing several very tall summits, the highest at almost 20,000 feet, on steep, loose terrain. You see, Chaiwen had broken her ankle a few weeks before the trip, and her doctor and physical therapist told her that the trip was out of the question. Undeterred, she came on the trip, at first thinking she would just walk around the beautiful landscape while the rest of us took on epic challenges. That thinking didn't last long. Chaiwen not only conquered all of the climbs in her boot, but she crushed them! Despite those achievements, when she got home to NYC, those professionals still told her no running for several more weeks. Which was a problem because this veteran of epic races like the Formosa Trail 104k in Taiwan and the Tahoe 200 was registered for her dream race, the UTMB, in August. Chaiwen talks here about her long injury recovery, her crash training regimen which totally blows me away, and her experience running in the “Super Bowl” of 100-mile races. So, so impressive! She is tremendously fun, so I think you'll get a kick out of this chat as much as I did.Chaiwen ChouInstagram @aehrwynBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

Our guest today is a local running and coaching legend here in Colorado who is also well-known worldwide. Junko Kazukawa came late into the running world, but has been a prolific endurance athlete, while exuding tons of positive energy. This year alone she completed the Leadwoman challenge – all of the Leadville running and biking races – which included her 10th LT100 run finish, then finished the very difficult Tor des Géants 200-miler in Italy, ran rim-to-rim-to-rim in the Grand Canyon, and currently has the NYC Marathon on-deck. In 2015, she became the first person to complete Leadwoman plus the 100-miler Grand Slam – Western States, Leadville, Vermont, and Wasatch – all in the same year. She did this on the heels of a second breast cancer diagnosis. This has given her the wonderful perspective of if there is something you want to do, don't wait, just do it, you never know what will happen tomorrow. And then her philosophy that cancer takes away a lot, but it gives you so much more. Junko also talks here about the interesting topic of how suffering through a tough ultramarathon makes her feel more alive. Her infectious positive energy has created a huge following for her both at her races and in her coaching, and Junko Mountain Training is not only the training regimen for many of her athletes, but has become an Internet sensation, too. Junko with her running and coaching has also generously supported the Susan B. Komen Foundation, the Leadville Legacy Foundation, and several individuals battling cancer themselves. I know you'll enjoy this chat with this relentlessly energetic and positive dynamo.Junko Kazukawaboundless.comkickingjk@gmail.comInstagram @runjunkorunBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

We have had some uplifting performances by young runners in American Heroes Run. Last year, we had the formerly overweight high school freshman who completed the marathon. I mentioned a couple of weeks ago a freshman cross country runner named Bobby, who normally runs 5K, who completed 50K. And then we have 19-year-old Steven Sampson, who completed 35.7 miles in the 9 hour & 11 minute run. One thing that sets Steven apart is that he considers himself a hybrid athlete because he devotes probably more of his time to weightlifting and bodybuilding than he does running. Some of his inspiration comes from the likes of David Goggins and many notable competitive bodybuilders. So like the young marathoner last year, it was cool to see a guy with a jacked body hammering out long distance miles. One of his drivers, too, has been overcoming surgery to remove a brain tumor, which has left him with screws in his skull and he also hopes doesn't prevent him from someday becoming a Navy Seal. He's a super nice young man who is passionate about his athletic pursuits, and is just getting started in finding where these will take him, so I think you'll enjoy our chat.Instagram @camopants_steveBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

Another great American Heroes Run performer was Lindsay Rahill, who attempted to complete her first 100-miler. While she bowed out at mile 72, Lindsay far exceeded her previous limits, and in the process continues to put behind her abuse and an eating disorder. She was supported by her awesome husband Chris, who had a fantastic spread of fueling items out for her the entire race except when he had to run home to pickup the kids from school. Lindsay is a lot of fun and she exudes enthusiasm for running and life in general. I greatly appreciate the help she gave me to help promote the AHR this year, which likely directly contributed to our having the highest numbers ever since I began directing the race.Lindsay RahillInstagram @lindsay.rahillBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

As I mentioned in my American Heroes Run episode, there were numerous impressive performances and I'm going to bring you chats with some of these while I'm traveling. First is Lisa Kabat, who not only improved her distance in the 9 hour & 11 minute race from 48 miles in 2023 to 62 miles this year, but also smashed the race record… the men's record, too. Given the unusual time length, perhaps that's a world record? Lisa lives near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, but she prefers to run loops around her neighborhood, to the tune of 25 miles every day. Yes, that's right. Thus, the loop format of the American Heroes Run suits her very well. What was cool was that Lisa generally had a big smile as she completed every lap. This might distract you from gawking at her unusual running form. She runs on her toes with a short, machine-like stride, with arms wildly swinging. I coached high school basketball for many years, and my first instinct would be to fix bad shooting form. But if the player was making his shots, you just shrugged and let it go. The same thing applies to Lisa – it seems to work for her. It's funny but just last week some people I was with talked about this woman with the funky form who they would see over and over and over running past their house near where Lisa lives. I've got a strong hunch I know who they were talking about! Lisa's next goal is Tunnel Hill, which, while it's out-and-back, is relatively flat. As she says, with her style it's likely she should stay off of rocky trails. But in our fun chat, you'll be impressed hearing how she fits huge miles into her schedule, and her enthusiasm for cranking out repetitive miles.Lisa KabatFacebook Lisa KabatBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

In addition to the We Are Superman Podcast, it is my humble privilege to honor David Clark's legacy to direct the American Heroes Run that he began in 2010.  This year, we had the largest number of runners since I began hosting it, and quite a few had outstanding performances.  We will be highlighting some of these stories in episodes over the new few weeks, but here is a recap of the entire two days of racing from 5K to 100 miles, from 15 to 85 years old, in Longmont, Colorado.Bill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

Adam Popp was one of the most impressive previous WASP guests, appearing on episode #209 in May, 2022. Adam, a 12-year combat veteran, had his right leg blown off by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan in December, 2007 while serving in the Air Force as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team leader. After a long, arduous rehabilitation process, Adam found his purpose again in advocacy work and sports, where he has always gone big and crammed a lot into a short amount of time. He won the 2021 and 2022 Americas Triathlon Championships, and completed a full Ironman in 11:03:06 in 2023. He became the first above-the-knee amputee to complete a 100-mile running race in less than 30 hours, and this year set the 100-mile world record of 16:13:43. He won the 2024 Boston Marathon Para Elite division (T61/63) and set a T63 world best of 3:08:52 at the London Marathon just six days later. For good measure, he ran another marathon in New Zealand a couple of weeks after that. Adam, who already holds seven Guinness World Records, is on a current quest to set 17 records this year to mark 17 years since losing his leg. His next major attempt will be to run 24 hours straight on a treadmill, which he'll do on Oct. 15 inside the Hoka flagship store in NYC. He aims to support the many organizations that aided him and other wounded soldiers. He is also doing a trial run on Wednesday morning, Sept. 25 in Arvada, Colo., so please reach out to him if you are a local listener who'd like to help witness it for him. His Instagram to contact him is @eodpopp He's a super humble guy who valiantly served his country on the battlefield, so please support him if you can either in Arvada or in New York.Adam Poppadampopp.comInstagram @eodpoppBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

Some wise person said that necessity is the mother of invention. It's also sometimes the mother of entrepreneurship. Meet Rice University runner Tyler Strothman. When he experienced years of frustrating foot pain, he tried many different brands of shoes, but nothing seemed to help solve his issues. So boldly, Tyler decided to start his own shoe brand, Veloci. The first models should arrive in January, but many runners who have tried his demo models have raved about them. The differentiators include a toebox that conforms to the natural shape of the foot AND they have a typical running shoe heel drop. Unlike some other brands on the market that have wider toeboxes, Velocis truly match the foot's shape and they are not zero-drop shoes. In a crowded field, Tyler has been using his youthful enthusiasm and energy to crack into running shoe stores with his innovative brand. In this chat, it is interesting to hear the approach used by a 21-year-old to introduce Velocis to the running community, as well as learning how he has taken his shoes and the company from the drawing board, through financing and relationship-building, to actual production. After my bunion surgery last year, my foot still feels pretty beat up after runs, so I'm looking forward to receiving the pair of Velocis I've ordered myself.Tyler Strothman velocirunning.comInstagram @velocirunning and @tylerstrothmanLinkedIn and TikTok Veloci RunningBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

As I mentioned in my American Heroes Run episode, there were numerous impressive performances and I'm going to bring you chats with some of these while I'm traveling. First is Lisa Kabat, who not only improved her distance in the 9 hour & 11 minute race from 48 miles in 2023 to 62 miles this year, but also smashed the race record… the men's record, too. Given the unusual time length, perhaps that's a world record? Lisa lives near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, but she prefers to run loops around her neighborhood, to the tune of 25 miles every day. Yes, that's right. Thus, the loop format of the American Heroes Run suits her very well. What was cool was that Lisa generally had a big smile as she completed every lap. This might distract you from gawking at her unusual running form. She runs on her toes with a short, machine-like stride, with arms wildly swinging. I coached high school basketball for many years, and my first instinct would be to fix bad shooting form. But if the player was making his shots, you just shrugged and let it go. The same thing applies to Lisa – it seems to work for her. It's funny but just last week some people I was with talked about this woman with the funky form who they would see over and over and over running past their house near where Lisa lives. I've got a strong hunch I know who they were talking about! Lisa's next goal is Tunnel Hill, which, while it's out-and-back, is relatively flat. As she says, with her style it's likely she should stay off of rocky trails. But in our fun chat, you'll be impressed hearing how she fits huge miles into her schedule, and her enthusiasm for cranking out repetitive miles.Lisa KabatFacebook Lisa KabatBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

It's a shame that two of the nicest people you can meet at the Leadville Trail 100 also happen to be the ones you want the least to meet. You see, Sandy and Mike Monahan are the race's cutoff queen and king. If you are pushing the time cutoffs at each aid station, they will do their best to move you through and on to the next one. But if you are too late getting there, they will kindly and gently deliver the news that your raceday has ended. You couldn't ask for better people to handle this difficult job, and that is what makes them an integral part of the Leadville Family. I've been there several times on both sides of the cutoff ledger, which may be why in the years I have volunteered, Sandy has sometimes recruited me to assist her. I got to know them particularly well in 2015, when I was the so-called Last Ass Up the Pass, the DFL, or dead f*@king last finisher. Due to coming back from surgery for a ruptured quad that prior fall and some other unique circumstances, from the time I arrived at Twin Lakes inbound, I was within four minutes of the cutoff at every aid station the rest of the way. A very stressful position to be in, but the Monahans kept me moving along so that I did make it to the finish with only two minutes to spare, in 29:58! Once again this year, at Outward Bound and Half Pipe, there were Mike and Sandy pushing me along as I teetered ahead of those cutoffs. But the couple has meant a lot more to the race, going all the way back to the early days when Mike was a racer, and Sandy helped race co-founder Merilee computerize the records from the old handwritten ones prior to then. Cole Chlouber devoted an entire chapter to them in his new book, Grit, Guts, and Determination. Mike and Sandy share some great stories that I am sure you will enjoy in this episode, recorded on the eve of this year's race, which they generously agreed to do, get this, on their 50th wedding anniversary!Bill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

I recap the Leadville Trail 100, including my experiences, training, fueling, the race itself, the Leadville people and the race's highly-charged atmosphere, and what my takeaways from it are. The chief one of those is to continue to think big and take chances on epic challenges. In fact, I'm asking all of you listeners to suggest other ones I can undertake. I'm ready. Please contact me and let me know your ideas for me!Bill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

With the Olympics having just ended, I'm presenting a chat I had with someone who might be a good bet to run in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Parker Wolfe had a terrific high school career at Cherry Creek H.S. in suburban Denver, where in his senior year he was the Gatorade Player of the Year after having an undefeated cross country season, and ran 4:06.17 in the 1600 to set the Colorado state record, which hadn't been broken in 41 years. He also set the still-standing state record in the 3200, 8:55.94. From there, he has had a stellar career at the Univ. of North Carolina. He won the ACC cross country title this year, but things really began to accelerate after he was runner-up this winter at the NCAA indoor championships in both the 3000 and 5000 meters. The highlights of his spring track season included winning ACC titles in the 5K and 10K, and then winning the NCAA 5000-meter crown. Three weeks later, at only 20 years old, Parker ran in the Olympic Trials in Eugene, Oregon. In an incredibly gutsy race, Parker crossed the line in 13:10.75 in third-place. Despite the top-three finish, Parker had not run the Olympic qualifying standard, and after computation of complex world rankings formulas, Parker was unfortunately the first guy out. It was a bit of a tough pill to swallow, but as you'll hear, Parker has mentally moved on and is focused on his upcoming season at North Carolina. He's a great example of resilience, overcoming setbacks, and continuing to follow the process. This conversation will also be enlightening if you are a high school or college runner as you hear about how he progressed through the stages of his recruitment, training, and competing.Parker WolfeInstagram and Threads @parkerw19Bill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

We often feature comebacks on the WASP.  This is a comeback by one old guy, me. I'll be toeing the starting line at the Leadville Trail 100 this weekend for the 10th time, hoping to become the first runner to finish the race in four different 10-year age groups. Leadville has been a special place to me since I first ran there in 1992. I have had many memorable races there, including finishing as the Last Ass Up the Pass in 2015. Between finishes, I have had almost too many surgeries to count. My latest one a year ago kept me out of action most of 2023. However, I have made training for it this year almost a full-time job and have pulled out all the stops to get to the finish. Thank you for following along with my journey, and definitely reach out if you happen to be in Leadville this weekend!Bill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

Anthony Lee is a young, rising star in the ultrarunning world who has a backstory that is as atypical you will hear for someone who has won very challenging major races like the Ouray 100 and Wyoming's Bighorn Mountain Wild and Scenic 100. If you see him at a starting line, you'll notice his long, brightly-dyed hair, tattoos, painted fingernails, and that he's Asian, all telling you that he has a story. What a story it is. It includes being a difficult teenager who got into trouble with the law. After he moved to Colorado, he spent a couple of years couch surfing or living under a bridge, and working in the restaurant industry, obviously none of which is very conducive to ultramarathon training. On many days, he would stash his belongings under some bushes in the pre-dawn dark, go for a run, then shower at the rec center and show up for work. This is where Anthony learned a lot about self-reliance, toughness, and perseverance and began his rise in ultrarunning. Despite those hardships, he is one of the most positive and affable athletes in the sport. What's super cool is Anthony wants to be an advocate for people to try to discover trail and ultrarunning who may look differently than the stereotypical old, white, male. You've heard athletes who were former addicts like David, Gary Stotler, and others who have been on the WASP who perhaps gained their amazing wisdom and worldly perspectives due to their struggles. You'll quickly hear with Anthony the immense gratitude and generosity he radiates that perhaps were gleaned from his hardscabble times. I mean he is just one friendly, giving, upbeat guy and I hope you really enjoy our lively chat.Anthony LeeInstagram @anthonycleeStrava and Facebook Anthony LeeBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

We've featured a lot of people who have taken on epic challenges, but this guest, Ray Zahab of Quebec, Canada, has done dozens and dozens of them. When we recorded this, Ray had just completed a couple of weeks before a crossing of Death Valley from north to south. I'm very familiar with the Badwater 135, which just completed, but that is run on roads. I didn't even know it was a thing there to run the shortest route between two points, completely off-road. The terrain is seriously rugged, and it's pretty hot, and Ray ran it with limited re-supplies in 53:35:21. In case you're wondering, he drank 75 liters of water. He's also run across the widest park of Death Valley west to east, crossing two mountain ranges, in 35 hours. He's run 7500 km across the Sahara Desert in 111 days, 1850 km across the Namib Desert in Africa, 1200 km across the Atacama Desert in Chile, and 2000 km across the Gobi Desert in Mongolia. That's the hot, dry stuff. He's crossed Baffin Island in northern Canada nine times in winter and trekked from the coast of Antarctica to the South Pole on snowshoes pulling his supply sled. And I'm just scratching the surface. Here's the WASP comeback story angle: Ray did this last Death Valley project a little more than a year after completing six months of debilitating chemotherapy for a rare form of lymphoma. What's very cool about Ray is how he shares his projects with schoolchildren with live links, and he has been running his foundation, impossible2Possible, to introduce kids to the kind of adventuring he does and reach beyond their perceived limits. The foundation takes kids to wild places so they can challenge themselves, and it doesn't even charge them to be there! Yes, they're free! Ray and his wife have been raising two daughters who get to experience the outdoors unlike the way Ray was when he was younger and was an out-of-shape, pack-a-day smoker. So there's another comeback. His brother inspired him to get outdoors and Ray now encourages everyone to also do so, including with his expedition company, KapiK1, which leads trips to remote and beautiful places like Baffin Island, the Atacama Desert, and the Gobi Desert. Even though we had a fairly short conversation, you might still find yourself listening in amazement to all that Ray does and get pumped up by his incredible level of energy and excitement.Ray Zahabrayzahab.comimpossible2possible.comkapik1.comrzahab@impossible2possible.comFacebook and LinkedIn Ray ZahabInstagram and X @rayzahabYouTube @rayzahab1944Bill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

During my recent long hours on trails training for the Leadville Trail 100, as well as in the Chase the Moon ultramarathon I just ran, I have been listening to several podcasts, and one I recently discovered and really enjoy is Buckle Up with Brian Passenti and Simon Guérard. Fellow New York area guy and Yankees fan Brian grew up running but had some significant detours along the way due to drinking and addiction. He basically missed high school after his mom recognized his issues and sent him to various institutions in what is actually known as the Troubled Teen Industry. His path led him to enlist in the Marines where he served almost his full hitch but got discharged for getting caught smoking weed. Following his return to civilian life, Brian continued to run pretty decently, although probably diminished because many of his runs were done in the morning to work off his hangover so he could show up at his job appearing to be sober. He finished Leadville in 2010 in less than 24 hours and was fourth-place in the challenging Silver Rush 50 while juggling running and drinking. A drunken bike wreck in December, 2016 that resulted in significant bodily injury led him to get sober. His running and his life have taken off since then. He has finished Leadville eight times, Leadman, the Moab 240 in 82 hours, and this year the Cocodona 250 in less than 105 hours. Brian, who has a wife and kids, now has the Buckle Up podcast and a thriving full-time coaching business called Altitude Endurance Coaching, and his clients include many training for Leadville and other ultramarathons. I hope you enjoy this lively chat between two ultrarunning, storytelling East Coast guys.Brian Passentialtitudeendurancecoaching.comFacebook Brian Passenti and Altitude Endurance CoachingInstagram @passentiontherunLinkedIn Brian PassentiBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

In January, 2022, episode #187, we brought to you the story of Holocaust survivor Lili Berliner. It is to this day, our episode with the highest number of downloads. We recently lost Lili at the age of 97, and I thought, in a first for the WASP, that we should replay this episode both for those of you who heard it earlier, as well as for those who have joined us more recently. It seems needed in this troubled time in the world that has seen a growing tide of antisemitism and hate. Lili's story of survival is incredible. Her family was yanked from their home in Transylvania when she was a teenager and shoved into a ghetto that was merely a converted warehouse, along with thousands of others. The Nazis then shipped all of them in a suffocatingly cramped train car to Auschwitz, where her father was immediately killed. Lili, all five feet-nothing of her and her mother against all odds somehow survived the hell of Auschwitz, only to be forced into a death march - barely clothed in frigid winter weather - on which three-quarters of the prisoners perished. They arrived at a labor camp where they craftily survived. Lili was already fluent in seven languages as a teenager, and she used this as a survival skill. When liberated from the infamous Bergen-Belsen by British troops, her mother weighed all of 60 pounds. The Allies used Lili's language expertise to extract confessions from German guards to use at their war trials.But this is a story of hope. Lili met her husband Walter, one of the Ritchie Boys, who were German-speaking Austrians who joined the U.S. Army and provided the bulk of intelligence to the Allies during the war. They were married in the first Jewish ceremony in Germany following the war. The couple moved to the U.S. and settled in Queens, New York, and raised a family, including my college roommate at the University of Pennsylvania, Steve. Because the Nazis had interrupted her education, Lili went back and got her high school diploma at age 55, and three years later received a nursing degree. She gave back to others in the medical field until she finally retired at age 85. Along the way, I can attest that she was the warmest, kindest person you would ever meet and a loving mother and grandmother, so amazing for someone who'd seen such horrors. To quote her, “Living well is the greatest revenge.” After listening to this, I encourage you to read her riveting memoir, “And the Month was May,” which you can find on Amazon. Please listen along and be amazed by this incredible survival story.Steve BerlinerFacebook Steve BerlinerInstagram @berlinersteveBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast

Trevor Farnes founded MTN OPS, a self-described outdoor performance supplements company. You may ask why you would listen to a chat about another company in this crowded space, but you will quickly find out that MTN OPS is a very different kind of company. For one, their customers are not anonymous buyers but part of a community that shares experiences and triumphs. Interestingly, MTN OPS focuses on the hunting community, but their products are also extremely well-suited for any endurance athletes. It makes sense when you think about it, because hunters spend long hours and days in the field and require proper fueling. Trevor has also created a unique MTN OPS corporate culture that is based on 12 principles that begin with recognizing God, empowering their employees from what he calls the Four Quadrants of Life, and community service. This latter principle led him to create Operation Conquer Hunger, an organization that has provided six million meals to families in the United States and the African country of Malawi. This project was spurred by Trevor's own life in which his prior business ventures failed and his ability to put food on his family's table was in question. It's an impressive operation that brings people together to assemble meal kits in various communities. What's very cool is that MTN OPS donates a meal for every sale they make. I also like that they are very serious about testing and delivering on their formulations, especially in the wake of recent reports about a prominent company in this field that was not delivering what was promised on its packaging. This is a very interesting story about the birth of this company, which evolved from when Trevor created a concoction that helped prolong his father's life, to locating in a historic building in a small Utah town where they are literally the only business, to developing this unique culture and community. I hope you enjoy hearing from this engaging, faith-based force in the performance supplements world.Trevor Farnesmtnops.comFacebook and YouTube MTN OPSInstagram and Threads @mtnops and @trevorfarnesBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @coachstahlYouTube We Are Superman Podcast