In this episode, Aaron Jensen shares his journey from being overweight and diagnosed with high blood pressure to becoming an ultra runner. He talks about his transition to ultra running, including his first 50-mile race and his progression to running 100-milers. Aaron also discusses his experience surviving colon cancer and how it impacted his running. He shares insights into training and fueling with a colostomy bag and the mindset shift he went through during his recovery. In this conversation, Aaron Jensen shares his journey as a cancer conqueror and ultra runner. He discusses how he fought against cancer and conquered it, leading to a new way of life. Aaron shares insights he gained from his experience, including increased empathy, listening to his body, and prioritizing family. He also talks about finding purpose in inspiring others and the importance of turning struggles into opportunities. Aaron shares his goals of qualifying for the Western States 100 and returning to Leadville for redemption. He discusses the gear he uses, including handhelds and Hoka shoes. Aaron highlights the people who inspire him and invites others to reach out to him for support and conversation. He shares his social media handles and encourages those going through similar experiences to know that they can still live a fulfilling life. The conversation concludes with gratitude and hope for the future.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:55 Getting into Running
03:00 Transition to Ultra Running
06:26 Running the Buffalo Run and Squaw Peak 50
08:08 Running the Wasatch 100
10:09 Training and Hiking
12:22 Antelope Island Races
13:47 Running Multiple Distances
16:18 Running After Cancer Diagnosis
21:21 Denial and Acceptance of Cancer
25:20 Recovery and Training After Surgery
28:00 Mindset Shift and Motivation
34:52 Fueling and Running with a Colostomy Bag
37:44 Managing the Colostomy Bag During Races
39:03 Cancer Conqueror
41:14 Insights from Conquering Cancer
43:11 Finding Purpose
46:22 Goals: Western States 100 and Leadville
49:11 Gear: Handhelds and Hoka Shoes
53:18 Inspiring People
54:45 Shoutouts and Social Media
58:06 Closing Remarks