A week after tackling a steep Canadian classic, two-time Leadville champion Adrian Macdonald joins us to chart a season that nearly went off the rails—and how he brought it back. After Western States left him drained and “half-sick,” bloodwork confirmed anemia. Adrian pressed pause on workouts, added iron, and rebuilt with patience. That decision reshaped his plans: fewer hero efforts, more deliberate steps. Now he’s heading to Ultra‑Trail Cape Town’s 100 miler to practice night pacing, big vert management, and problem‑solving—key skills he wants dialed before returning to UTMB.
We trace Adrian’s path from Massachusetts soccer and college track to Boston road marathons and, finally, Colorado trails. Winning Leadville unlocked travel, sponsorship, and a renewed sense of racing—not just time‑trials—but it also brought pressure and a few humbling lessons. He learned race specificity the hard way: the same engine that crushes runnable high altitude doesn’t guarantee success on technical, hour‑long burners. His solution is pragmatic and refreshing. Choose one major ultra a year, sometimes two. Add short, sub‑ultra mountain races as tune‑ups to sharpen nerves, descents, and pacing without the deep fatigue of an ultra. Mix in East Coast staples like Mount Washington for nostalgia and family time, and lean on a supportive Fort Collins crew—mentors like Nick Clark and training partners who keep the work honest.
We also go inside the On Running ecosystem, where rapid gear innovation and a cross‑discipline team culture keep Adrian inspired. From plated trail shoes to polished kits, he’s part of a brand sprinting forward while still celebrating the messy, human side of ultras. If you’ve wondered how to rebuild after a rough race, plan a smarter season, or pick courses that actually fit your strengths, this is your blueprint. Enjoy the story, steal the strategies, and tell us what big race you’re targeting next. If this conversation resonates, follow the show, leave a quick review, and share it with a friend who loves big climbs and bigger comebacks.
Follow Adrian on IG - @macdonaldadrian
Follow Adrian on Youtube - @adrianmacdonald
Contact Adrian - @adrian.run
Follow James on IG - @jameslauriello
Follow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_pod
Use code steepstuffpod for 25% off your cart at UltimateDirection.com!
