Aid Station X-Rays Podcast is a newer show started by Val and Chris. They are both friends of mine, trail runners, endurance athletes, and parents.
Val is newer to trail running, she completed her first 7 mile trail race a few weekends ago. She is already interested in trying an ultramarathon.
Chris (AKA Captain Miles) is a cool guy who I met a year or so ago through Instagram.
We ran for hours together at Oil Creek 100 last year and learned that we have a lot in common. – tattoos, favorite band, beer, parenting, and running.
They asked me to be on their show to discuss my expertise, and of course, I said yes.
We talked about mindset and mental health as endurance athletes. Whether that’s during race training, races, or everyday life.
In our discussion, I dropped all sorts of valuable insights and practical tips.
Val and Chris did a three part series where they talked with a nutrition expert (Lauren Beihoffer),
a physical health expert (Brooke), and a mental health / sports psychology expert (myself),
so be sure to listen to the other two episodes, so that you cover all of your bases!
We hope that you really enjoy our episode and take away so many great tips and insights!
If you do, please like and share it with others.
Get to know the hosts
How did you meet each other?
Val: “I met Chris via social media, at least a year ago. Not sure if we follow/have similar friends, but we both obviously enjoy running just a little.
And I actually used to live in the town where he’s from in PA! So it’s really a small world lol. The first time we met in person was when we did our first podcast episode!”
How did the podcast come to be? – Was Chris dragged into it?
Val: “I’ve always wanted to do a podcast/vlog, but besides being a mom and just living a crazy life, I didn’t feel I had anything I was passionate enough about to continually share stories/etc. that could help people.
Chris and I would joke about how we’d make “terrible” coaches because we’d constantly encourage our athletes to do allllll the things, and the wheels started turning for me.
I knew we had a fun dynamic and thought we would balance each other well talking about races and training, because we both genuinely enjoy the journey and learning about it. Didn’t have to twist his arm too bad!”
If you were racing each other, who would win in a road 5k? Trail marathon?
Val: “Chris and Chris! I am neither fast, nor furious. I enjoy everything along the way, the sights, the sounds. Beep bop along at my own little pace, stop for all the pictures and pet all the dogs. 😂”
Chris: “That’s hard to answer because I don’t really get excited about numbers. I don’t go into races to race anyone but me. I want you to get to the finish line and to do your best. Then beers!”
What was your biggest accomplishment so far this year? It could be running related or not
Chris: “There’s still so much left of this year. That is hard to say before October. I’d go with starting the podcast with Val. Completely out of my comfort zone. I think we are pulling it off! She is amazing!”
What’s your favorite band? The best concert you’ve ever been to?
Chris: “Favorite band is Breaking Benjamin. I think you knew that. Never have seen them live yet! Ozzfest 2000 was the best show. Original members of Pantera.”
[Yes, I’ll never forget that we have the same favorite band. I wanted this for the readers :)]
What’s one mindset or mental wellness tip that really works for you? Please, explain a little
Val: “I like reframing thoughts. It works not just in my training, but everyday life.
I tend to like having control in things I’m doing, but get overwhelmed and anxious many times when I can’t control outcomes, what’s next, etc.
I look at the reasons why I’m feeling the way I am and try to redirect the thoughts/feelings or give myself simple solutions.” [Same here!]
Chris: “I’ve been thinking about this one since you asked. Trying my best not to make me sound like an insane asshole. I love the “burn the boats” mentality.
I believe the story goes, the Vikings travels for battle by ship. When they arrived the night before the battle they burned their boats. Meaning it was victory or death. No retreat.
I feel that. Most of the time I’m going to get it done or die trying. Does that mean I’d be willing to die for a race? I’m not answering that. Think we know the answer to that. No matter what. Burn the boats.”
[Chris, I love this and it doesn’t make you sound like an asshole. It’s a really badass strategy that reflects strength. I won’t drop from a race unless I’m close to having a medical issue. I’d rather DNF by timing out.]
Episode 8 – Relentless Forward Progress with Shannon Mick
Follow Val and Chris
Aid Station X-Rays Podcast on Instagram and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts
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Are you ready to give dry a try?
Take a break from drinking alcoholic brews and note whether or not there’s a difference in how you feel.
My breaks last anywhere from a week to a year.
I always notice that how I feel day-to-day and how I perform at races always improves when I take a break from drinking alcohol.
My mood is brighter, I feel less anxious, and I’m mentally sharper because I get higher quality sleep at night.
Maybe you will see similar benefits?
Athletic Brewing Company has several styles to try. Order their limited beers before they are gone. All of their beer is carefully crafted and non-alcoholic.
You can order them online or shop at your local grocery store.
I hope that you enjoy these products as much as I do!
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