Vol State: It's All About the People

Carmel and Jarrod were "the Boys" in my latest book and on this episode Carmel gives his side of the story. Ha ha. Seriously though, he has many more tips and tricks and tells of how companionship at Vol State not only helps you keep on going but also leads to life long friends.

This episode features a Spam loving Race Director who has participated in all three summer vacations without a car - Vol State, HOTS and Third Circle. Can you spell "Wise"? Or maybe there's a better word??? Enjoy his adventures as he brings you along in his pack.

Another Vol State friend for life. After the 2018 Vol State, Diane helped me in my attempt to cross the US. without her, I'd have ended up in Hawaii since I'm so geographically challenged. But this retired Marine was definitely always faithful and always there for me. You can't ask for a better friend! Listen to her Vol State and HOTS escapades.

Another man near and dear to my heart and further proof of the friendships made along the road at Vol State. Justin Daniels is one of the kindest and most generous men I know. Check out RunningForCOPD on Facebook and also go to www. COPDfoundation.org and search for Justin's name..or you can simply google Justin Daniels Running for COPD. It's a great cause and I was honored to listen to hi...

This is a special episode so I called it a bonus. Mr. & Mrs. Bailey sent me a written document with all the answers to the questions I would have asked. They did this in lieu of being on the podcast. So, today I read his document in order for you to see what wonderful people the Baileys are. It's one sided but I hope I did his epistle justice!

If you want detail about what to pack and what to pay attention to, you've come to the right episode. Jenny Appel is the detail gal. And she has some really useful quotes to help you too.

Having a great dea in common with Emmanuel this was a joy to record. He's such a humble guy yet filled with so much knowledge. It's so enjoyable to listen to his tales.  

What a wealth of information! Dexter has done so much and shares the down to the basics with us to help make it through those 314 miles across Tennessee. This is a can't miss episode! Note: This episode seems louder than usual so turn down your volume before you begin.

Andrea Sloan has an amazing resume and she shares her wisdom from her many ultras, including, of course, Vol State. Canada is so lucky to have her!

In this episode you get three for the price of one - all in the persona of Jarrod Richardson. He's gone from Road Angel to DNF to Veteran! If you've ever been intrigued by the signs along the course (other than the political ones), you've seen his town and the surrounding towns come out to cheer him on! He's got lots of tips.

Another Road Angel who's not shy. If you've passed Serenity Hill, you know Lorraine. From what she's seen, she thinks you get through this race with experience, strength and hope...and she wants to help. She has called this "The Race of the Mind".

Plans don't always turn out as you hope. Listen to Jay Zeller discuss the ups and downs of his 2023 Vol State. Listsen as he helps you understand that no matter how good the intention, not everyone reaches the rock. Email Jay at Coach365USA@gmail.com 78 Days to Bataan https://a.co/d/grXEOg9 Everything Matters https://a.co/d/cT22dQE Coach 'Em Up; Going beyond the W in sports https://a.co/d/...

Beverley Anderson-Abbs holds the women's screwed record but even though most of us can only dream about that, she has important tips on how to survive this journey run!

Everyone who's done Vol State knows Pam Pratt! Many road angels have been guided by her too. Popping up at the least expected moment, her joy and kindness reflect one of the most important "pulls" of this race - the people who help us.

Pam Smith is an Army Veteran (but this Navy veteran doesn't hold that against her except for one day in December)! She's also a 3 time Vol State finisher. She talks about her races in helpful detail - detail only ultrarunners are used to hearing as part of their daily life. Get more tips on preparing for and running your race from Pam.

What better way to start discussing Vol State than to have Jan Walker, the Meat Wagon Lady join us. It's a long one but her words of wisdom and humor are worth it. In the intro to this inaugural episode Terrie dedicates this podcast to Hunt, a fellow runner who is struggling right now. We all want him to know we're with him.

Terrie explains the purpose of this podcast and its celebration of all the people involved who afford us the opportunity to do journey runs/endurance runs such as Vol State. She lists three essential resources for people running the race and introduces some unique Vol State terms. This introduction will help you determine if this podcast is for you.