Chris Slater and I met through my friend, TJ Furman, who is not a runner but a former coworker of both of ours.
In this episode, sponsored by BITCHSTIX, Pure Fuel and Previnex, we talk about his journey from being a professional football player as a kid to dealing with a severe cocaine addiction, and ultimately finding his way to sobriety through running.
Highlights include: Chris's early football career; starting a nightclub promotions business in university; his struggle with cocaine addiction and road to recovery; beginning to run during COVID and completing isolated marathon challenges; participating in multiple major marathons including Brighton, London, and Manchester; achieving 52 marathons in 52 weeks in 2022; competing in the Marathon des Sables and finishing in the top 50; and his experiences with the UTMB ultra races. Chris also introduces his dog, Bobby, as part of his support system. Throughout, Ally and Chris discuss the discipline, mental strength, and training required for these remarkable achievements.
00:00 Introduction to Finish Lines and Milestones
00:23 Sponsorship and Upcoming Event
01:45 Episode 101: New Beginnings with Video
03:30 Geography Lesson and International Guests
04:52 Conversation with Chris Slater Begins
05:17 Chris Slater's Background and Early Life
07:21 Football Career and Transition to University
15:30 Nightclub Business and Descent into Addiction
22:26 Struggles with Addiction and Path to Recovery
29:21 Running as a New Passion
33:56 Marathon Journey and Charity Work
44:37 Reflecting on Personal Bests and Lap Races
45:25 Major Marathons of 2023
45:41 Challenges of Marathon Entry and Lottery Systems
46:33 Future Marathon Goals and Ultra Running
47:28 Experiences from Major Marathons
50:59 Marathon Des Sables: The Ultimate Challenge
54:29 Training and Preparation for Ultra Marathons
01:02:04 The Mental and Physical Demands of Ultra Running
01:11:32 UTMB and Lessons Learned
01:17:44 Future Plans and Career Balance
01:20:59 Personal Life and Inspirations
01:23:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
UK Newspaper article about Chris
Tickets to Indy Mini Event on 5/2
Sponsor Details:
- Previnex - ALLY15 for 15% off your first order
- BITCHSTIX -ALLYB for 20% off your order
- Pure Fuel - FUEL20 for 20% off your order
