Kate Pallardy joins the Free Outside Podcast to talk about longevity in ultrarunning, balancing motherhood with elite racing, and how her mindset has evolved over the years. From 100-mile podiums to navigating the chaos of parenting and training, Kate shares how she’s learned to stay present, resilient, and grounded—even when everything feels out of control.
We dive into:
-The reality of training with toddlers and unpredictability
-How mindset work and self-awareness changed her racing
-What she learned from big DNFs—and big wins
-Recovery, sleep, and why less can be more
-And her unique approach to nutrition and fueling
This one’s honest, inspiring, and packed with hard-earned wisdom from one of the most thoughtful voices in the sport.
Follow Kate online:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katepallardy
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuOTtH5LZojo8uZ-hmuosCg
Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com
Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside
Buy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSF
Email me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.com
Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside
Website: www.Freeoutside.com
Instagram: thefreeoutside
facebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Kate Palardy
03:05 The Unique Challenge of 100-Mile Races
05:54 Pacing and Shared Experiences in Ultra Running
08:56 Transitioning from Triathlons to Ultra Running
11:51 The Joy of Simplicity in Ultra Running
15:00 Training Differences: Marathons vs. 100-Mile Races
17:56 Life Hacks for Running with Kids
20:54 How Family Life Influences Training
23:57 The Journey to Becoming a Pro Triathlete
27:02 The Process of Earning a Pro Card
33:40 The Evolution of Triathlon
35:02 Rediscovering the Joy of Racing
36:57 Family Dynamics and Racing
40:22 Balancing Family and Athletic Goals
43:33 The Journey of Motherhood and Running
51:06 A Life-Changing 27-Mile Run
59:34 Finding Purpose in Running
