7 days ago

189. Running Into the Record Books with Team USA | Don Reichelt

Ultramarathon runner Don Reichelt opens up about how running has shaped his mindset, resilience, and sense of purpose.

Joining Dr. Andrew Fix, Don shares what it takes to move from the back of the pack to world records and a spot on Team USA at the 24-hour World Championships. What keeps someone going when the race lasts an entire day? How do you stay connected to the joy that first pulled you into the sport when training gets hard? Don reflects on the importance of surrounding yourself with the right team, using setbacks as teachers, and remembering your “why” when motivation fades. From mountain trails to flat looped courses, he shows how ultramarathon running is as much about mental strength as it is about physical endurance, offering lessons that reach far beyond the miles.

Quotes

“I think the most important thing that I’ve learned and that I have implemented is that it’s okay not to have all the answers and to surround yourself with a team that does potentially have the answers.” (16:54 | Don Reichelt)
“I simply wanted to be outside. And those are the things that you cannot forget. The more you get into the sport and it’s any sport or any activity is just remember that the first run you did and how probably terrible you were and how rewarding it felt to get done with that workout.” (19:42 | Don Reichelt)
“It’s okay not to have all the answers. Surround yourself with a team, and also just remember where you came from, remember the passion and the joy and your why.” (20:03 | Don Reichelt)
“I would rather never win another race than not to be able to walk and run when I’m 80.” (27:00 | Don Reichelt)
“I’m deeply, deeply motivated on the idea of not being like old man Don and looking back and saying, what would have happened if I tried to do this? What would have happened? Or what could I have been capable of if I pushed myself in this area or this?” (44:30 | Don Reichelt)
“There is going to be a positive takeaway from failure. And maybe it’s a, ‘Oh, I approached it the wrong way,’ or, ‘Oh, I wasn’t as prepared as I thought, so I needed to do X, Y, and Z.’ There should be some action item takeaway from failure.” (51:25 | Don Reichelt)

Connect with Don Reichelt:

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From Novice to Ultrarunning Champion with Don Reichelt | The Code Podcast

2025 IAU 24 Hour World Championship | USA Track & Field

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