Three starts. Three DNFs. And still… not done.In this raw and honest episode, Fred shares the emotional weight of his third attempt — and third DNF — at the Mac Mac 200 mile trail race. But this isn’t a story of failure. It’s a story of resilience, reflection, and the relentless pursuit of growth.🎙️ What’s inside: • Why the DNF isn’t the full story • Training, coaching, and removing luck from the equation • The powerful role of mental preparation • Reconnecting with nature — and self • What’s next after three brutal finishes that never cameThis is one for every runner who’s been knocked down and got back up again — not for the medal, but for the meaning.🎧 Subscribe for more Mac Mac Interviews — athlete stories, trail wisdom, and the truth behind ultra.#MacMac200 #UltraRunning #TrailRunning #MindfulRunner #DNF #RunningCoach #ThirdAttempt #StillStanding
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14:09
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14:09
Nicky Booyens : 200 Mile Ultra Queen
In this episode, Fred interviews Nicky Booyens, the only woman to have successfully completed the MacMac 200-mile race. Nicky shares her experiences, challenges, and the evolution of her approach to ultra racing. She discusses the mental strategies she employs during long races, her pacing techniques, and the importance of personal satisfaction over competition. Nicky emphasizes the need for more women to participate in ultra races and offers advice for those considering taking on the challenge. The conversation also touches on her training regimen, the role of cross-training, and the joy of racing.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Nikki Boyans and Her Journey02:19 Experiences and Challenges in the MacMac Race04:59 Mindset and Mental Strategies for Ultra Racing07:21 Pacing and Race Management Techniques09:58 The Role of Women in Ultra Racing12:45 Training Regimen and Preparation for Races15:03 Cycling's Influence on Running Performance17:43 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Runners#NickyBooyens #TurboMamba #MacMac200 #200MileUltraQueen #UltraRunning #TrailRunning #WomensRunning #UltraWoman #MindsetMatters #SouthAfrica #InspirationalRunnerFor Coaching Click Here
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17:34
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17:34
Gideon Kahl : A 200 Mile Reset
After quitting at 200km in 2024, Gideon Kahl is stepping up to the Mac Mac 200 for the second time. In this candid interview, we explore what it means to line up at one of the toughest trail races in Africa—without a long resume, without guarantees, but with deep intent.We talk:Why Gideon is returning to the 200 milesHow he’s training, preparing, and mentally approaching the challengeWhat excites (and scares) him most about Mac MacWhat it means to show up fully when the outcome is uncertainThis is a conversation about courage, clarity, and showing up for the long road ahead.🟡 Subscribe for more Mac Mac 200 interviews🔗 Learn more: https://mindfulrunner.co.za#MacMac200 #TrailRunning #UltraRunning #GideonKahl #MindfulRunner #First200Miler #EnduranceMindset
Welcome to The Mindful Runner Podcast – the trusted voice for trail runners who want clear, actionable answers to their running challenges.As trail runners, we know that balancing training, life, and goals can feel overwhelming. That’s why this podcast exists—to cut through the noise and provide practical guidance that’s easy to follow, based on years of experience coaching runners just like you.I’m Fred Richardson, founder of Mindful Runner, ultra-runner, and coach. In each short, focused episode, we’ll tackle the questions you care about most—giving you the solutions, tips, and insights you need to keep moving forward. Whether you’re aiming for your first race or your fastest finish, we’re here to help you achieve it, one clear answer at a time.