Shows
The Stubborn TortoiseThe Boston Marathon, Inside-Out with Coach Basilio Mendoza and Orlando "Hundo" MontalvoThis is such a fun chat with two of my RGV friends, Coach and Hundo. They drove 38 hours straight from Mission, Texas to Marlboro, Mass. on April 11. By the 13th, they were setting up 10-foot-long interlocking barricades that weighed up to 30 pounds apiece, alongside 70-something local women.
The RGV duo were not volunteers. They were paid $350 per day to work on the course and to do operations. The days were long and hard, but memorable as they worked behind the scenes at the world's oldest annual marathon.
Mendoza, a retired high school coach from Donna...2024-04-221h 16
The Stubborn TortoiseThe Top 10 Trails in Texas -- Donna's VersionI didn't have a ton to talk about and then it hit me: why not share my Top 10 favorite places to run trails in Texas? This is highly subjective and limited to my experience. Hint: I'm not a huge fan of those gnarly, super-technical courses, so don't come at me.
The majority of these places are venues patronized by Tejas Trails races. BUT, there are a handful of small, San Antonio parks and some obscure spots that aren't on a map in the Rio Grande Valley. (From Mission to Sullivan City to outside of Rio Grande City.)2023-09-0329 min
The Stubborn TortoiseGluttons for PunishmentOn Saturday. four hardy souls toed the line for the Third Annual Ice Cream Challenge. Contestants have to eat a variety of ice cream treats and then run 1.5 miles in between each serving. It starts with a Chipwich and ends with a pint of ice cream -- unless you choose to go the Junior Varsity route.
I spectated and shot video of the festivities. No one threw up but getting through the pint proved to be the chore that it sounds like.
Photo: Ulises Marrufo, Thomas Bowling, Chris Russell on the "podium."2021-05-3128 min
The Stubborn TortoisePaz and Hundo: The Nitty GrittyPaz and Hundo are back with some strategies and tips for running in the wild. Bodily function stories ahead.
Plus, a bonus story about herding a baby goat back to its mama.2021-05-2548 min
The Stubborn TortoiseMaster's Edition: Matt Martinez aka "Mr. Selfie"Matt Martinez was one of my running buddies when I lived in the Rio Grande Valley. He is 55, more of a road runner and doesn't aspire to run beyond 25K - ever. And that's OK. I think too often we pressure ourselves into aspiring to crazy distances or paces.
Matt doesn't do that. He gets the run-life balance.
We used to call him "Mr. Selfie" because he would post , um, selfies on Facebook after his runs. He also nicknamed our friend, Tanya, as "Tanya One More Hill" because she always wanted to push the limit.2021-05-1734 min
The Stubborn TortoiseMaster's Edition: Brian Sharp.a Paragon of TenacityBrian Sharp is an inspirational runner, not only because he has overcome disabilities or obstacles, but because of his positivity. He is someone with an interesting back story and has some audacious goals for the next year.
In my outtro, I talk about my GVRAT experience, making mosaic-tiled pots, do you want swag and more.2021-05-091h 05
The Stubborn TortoiseWhadaya Mean, 100 Miles? Master's Edition with Seresa RomeroSeresa eats 100 miles for breakfast. She has the ideal mindset and training discipline one needs to tackle those goals.
She shares her story of her running journey as well as what's ahead in her future: spoiler alert: she plans to log 150 miles this year at Snowdrop!2021-05-0245 min
The Stubborn TortoisePaz and Hundo Talk TravelHalf of the adventure of doing an out-of-town trail race is getting there. In the first of a monthly segment, Paz and Hundo, aka Orlando Montalvo, will share stories and advice or worthless information (ha ha). Our inaugural episode is about travel. We share some of our favorite stories of being on the road, ranging from a deflated air mattress to a toxic-smelling hotel room to sleeping on the only available surface left: the floor. Sit back and enjoy the stories.
Photo: Hundo and Paz (with Normita blurred...2021-04-261h 08
The Stubborn TortoiseMaster's Edition: Coach Basilio MendozaMendoza, a South Texas native, has a compelling backstory about his upbringing, race and being first in his family to graduate from college. He coaches high school cross country and has seen his team win state championships. He raises money for his team to travel outside of the Valley by holding local road and trail races. In between, he coaches adults. He is a very accomplished runner in his own right. And no matter what your ability, Coach Mendoza always has supportive things to say.2021-04-191h 09
The Stubborn TortoiseThe Pandemic Experience: The Race Director's Perspective With Chris McWattersWhen the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Chris McWatters, the race director for Tejas Trails, was oblivious to what was transpiring. He was marking the course at Camp Eagle, site of the J&J Trail Running Reunion, which is notorious for having little to no cell phone access. His wife, Krissy, was trying to reach him to tell him that everything was shutting down and wondered how they were going to find toilet paper.
Fast-forward a year or so, and McWatters has learned a few things about race directing during a pandemic -- also thanks to Krissy for her...2021-04-151h 16
The Stubborn TortoiseReturning to the OriginsI returned to the Rio Grande Valley this past weekend to reconnect with friends and the place where my trail-running career began. The reason: the Mesquite Fire trail race. It was among the first "live" running events since Texas reopened after the pandemic closed the state.
I met up with a lot of friends and reacquainted myself with the sea-level, hard-packed trails. I got most of the "full experience" out there. You'll have to listen to find out.
The pollen made my eyes and nose run and the humidity ensured I was a sodden mess...2021-04-1226 min
The Stubborn TortoiseMusic!I love music. I was a music writer in undergrad (not mentioned in this episode), which led me to a career in journalism. (that's another story.)
Music can make a run all the better. I talk about my obsession with Orville Peck, my love of Fatboy Slim, The Clash and GirlTalk.
And, as an added bonus, I have included my updated playlist from Spotify. It has something for everyone, I think. :)
El te que juro si! (I hope I didn't eff up the translato.2021-04-0524 min
The Stubborn TortoiseBeating the Lady in BlueIt's probably not nice, but my friend Maria and I decided we didn't want to be beaten today by a woman in blue, whom we passed during our 10K at The Tangle. Ha ha.2021-03-2919 min
The Stubborn TortoiseMaster's Edition: Orlando Montalvo aka "Hundo"Orly, as I call him, is one of my favorite people. He has a big laugh, a big personality and a penchant for doing big races. He has completed six, 100-milers -- three with his lovely wife, Kathy. Yours truly tried to get him through his first Rocky Raccoon 100. That is a story in itself. His big accomplishment was finishing the beast known as Cactus Rose 100 in October. He was properly trained and was determined to get that buckle.
The high school science teacher by day loves food, metal and flashing disco lights. He even brought one...2021-03-2251 min
The Stubborn TortoiseGetting Back Into the GrooveI volunteered and ran over the weekend at the J&J Trail Running Reunion. It was fun seeing old friends, making new ones and getting...creative with serving ramen. I ran a decent 4-miler and was happy to not be last for a change. I may be on a comeback. Maybe.
Photo: A still from a video I shot at the pavilion on Friday evening. Look how organized everything is!2021-03-1527 min
The Stubborn TortoiseThe Long-Game Guy: Master's EditionThomas Bowling, soon-to-be-59, is a legend of the San Antonio running circuit. He has numerous ultras accomplished, with just a couple of races he'd like to do over. He is fearless about 100Ks to 100-milers. A counselor, he uses his own techniques to help himself get through tough, uncomfortable spots. Volunteering is another of his favorite ways to give back.
He also managed to subconsciously convince me to go through with this weekend's Salsa Walk.
Photo: Cunningham Gulch in the San Juan Mountains - part of the Hard Rock Course
2021-02-2854 min
The Stubborn TortoiseTales From the TundraA recap of a crazy, horrible week, along with lessons learned and stories from the past. Plus, a recap (with an ending) from Rocky Raccoon, since my power went out as I recorded last week's episode.
Photo: my back porch on Feb. 15, 20212021-02-2144 min
The Stubborn TortoiseLive, From the Tundra!Seriously, we have 3 inches of snow on the ground and it is below freezing. Six days ago, it was 80. We got this nasty polar vortex thing and it won't let up until the weekend. Meanwhile, my power goes out every 30 minutes for 10 minutes.
Otherwise, I took my friend, Jessica, to Huntsville over the weekend for the Rocky Raccoon half marathon. We had a lost car key and found it. The wind chill was in the teens but at least it was dry.
She had a great time and now wants to do more Tejas races!2021-02-1507 min
The Stubborn TortoiseBirthday Blues...and Trailwork! I have a Big Birthday on Friday, which has churned up a lot of angst and sadness, but also some optimism. I talk about my ongoing struggle with depression and overcoming the stigmas associated with it.
I also give a few shoutouts, race updates and talk about the sundry items I collected during a trail cleanup on Sunday. Here is where you can sign up for Sunday.2021-02-0828 min
The Stubborn TortoiseForcing Accountability aka Signing up for Stupid ThingsIn an effort to demonstrate that I can be accountable, I ran all of the miles I was supposed to last week. Hey, it's a start. I also managed to run a 10-mile race and come in dead last in my distance. Baby steps.
To further hold myself accountable, I signed up for a couple of challenging events: The Salsa Walk, where participants walk from the Chuy's in Selma to the one in San Marcos, for the 50K, or if you're really crazy, you continue on to the Chuy's in Austin for 100K. I am only half...2021-02-0123 min
The Stubborn TortoiseMaster's Edition: Pamela Karr LockhartI met Pamela a couple of years ago as we both slogged through the Brazos Bend 50-miler. She saved me with her 30-30 timer, stories and a touch of Fireball.
Since then, she has racked up a bunch of ultras, with the most recent being a 55-hour virtual where she logged 129 miles!
She is super-positive and motivating. I hope you enjoy our conversation.
Photo: Pamela at the Alamo City Ultra in 2019.2021-01-261h 08
The Stubborn TortoiseThe Single Parent's DilemmaBeing a single parent is a big enough challenge, but throw a pandemic into the mix and things get even trickier: it's not like you can leave your kids with a friend or distant relative while you take a little time for yourself.
Mayra Caamaño, of The Woodlands, and Hilda Ochoa, who lives outside of San Antonio, tell their stories, offer their coping mechanisms and talk about finding gratitude when our previous lifestyles are in the past.
Photo: Hilda Ochoa, left, Myra Caamaño, left. (Forgive my sad Photoshop skills.)2021-01-1850 min
The Stubborn TortoiseBandera: Inside-OutLast weekend, I learned that there is more to volunteering at a race than handing out food and drink and medals.
I found out there is a lot of prep: ice, fruit, propane, pallets of bread and tools to be purchased and more. There are stakes to be driven, signs to be stapled to said stakes, caution tape to be strung.
On race day, there was blood, hungry folks snapping up mashed potatoes topped with ramen broth and a woman with a tampon jammed up her nose because she fell and broke it.
...2021-01-1136 min
The Stubborn TortoiseGetting Off the Struggle BusHappy New Year!
Like most runners, I am always learning new things about myself: mental attitude, nutrition, hydration, gear.
I got a new hydration vest -- the Nathan Vapor Howe -- and really like it. My former brand, Ultimate Direction, didn't live up to my expectations, so I switched. I also have been tweaking my diet and have added a couple of supplements, which seem to help. I also tried caffeinated Tailwind and, to my surprise, really liked it.
I had a couple of decent runs over the weekend. The second one, I...2021-01-0428 min
The Stubborn TortoiseMaster's Edition: Gary TrautmannThis one is a year-end two-fer: I talked to Gary Trautmann, a San Antonio-based runner, who talks about COVID running. He's also a master's runner.
He talks about lessons learned during COVID and why it is so much better to run with a group, in terms of motivation.
He is training for his first 50K this spring: either Prickly Pear at McAllister Park in San Antonio or Brazos Bend outside of Houston.
2020-12-2857 min
The Stubborn TortoiseMaster's Edition: Kelly CunninghamI met Kelly in January as we ran with our friend, Louisa, at Bandera. We were the witnesses to her breaking her ankle.
Since then, Kelly has run two trail marathons and is ready for the Bandera 50K on Jan. 10.
She is a cancer survivor, dedicated to her kids and grandkids and is admirably consistent in banging out those miles.
Prepare to be inspired.
Photo: Kelly's first 25K at the J&J Reunion at Camp Eagle.2020-12-201h 05
The Stubborn TortoiseThat Volunteer LifeI joined a handful of folks over the weekend to volunteer at The Mosaic trail race, outside of Austin. It was a gig that occasionally got confusing: the course is a big Figure-8 and depending on the distance people were running, they started going in one of two directions and looping back and forth, again, depending on the distance of their race. People occasionally finished and didn't stop to pick up their medal or remove their timing chip, causing us to chase after people.
But, mainly, it was a lot of fun. On Friday morning and early...2020-12-1524 min
The Stubborn TortoiseSupport, a Semi-Rant and an Update on TrainingThis is a mixed bag of stuff.
We start off with my friend, Agatha Halekulani Kerr's latest adventure: a 600K (372) miles to raise funds for a church/school in Costa Rica in early February.
I wasn't planning on talking about this, but I decided to talk about how people get into a cult and reprised the tale of the Rev. Jim Jones, who lured 900 folks from the US to Guyana, in northern South America, in the late 70s. He promised them a place with no bugs, snakes etc. and plenty of food. That was a...2020-12-0726 min
The Stubborn TortoiseThe Philanthropist: Dickie Longo -- Master's EditionI happened upon Dickie Longo via my friend, Agatha Kerr, a San Antonio-area running friend. She is editing a book about Dickie by an Australian writer named Sue Oaks.
Oaks needed some additional interviewing to help flesh out his story. Agatha asked me if I could help. I was a little nervous parachuting into someone else's project, but I accepted the challenge.
Last Monday, I talked to this exceptional and generous 83-year-old from Louisiana. He gives away running shoes and (sometimes) race fees to those who can't swing the cost. He has since been given...2020-11-301h 05
The Stubborn TortoiseThe Stupidest Planning EverSomehow, I thought it was a good idea to skimp on dinner the night before and breakfast the morning of a race. Even worse, I under packed my drop bags and didn't have enough food to sustain me through a 25K race.
My thinking was, "Oh, it's only a 7.5 or so loop with a stop midway. I'll be fine."
The humidity was 92% and the temperatures neared 80. I drained my little 12-ounce handheld before each way station.
By the end of the last loop, I was dizzy -- don't use one earbud for a...2020-11-2228 min
The Stubborn TortoiseAffirmationYesterday's 30K run at Jalapeño Hundred turned out pretty well.
My mind was right, I had my podcasts/music and the weather was great.
Loved the course, despite the sand (think: running in small dunes). I got a coupla blisters, but I was pretty happy to finish faster than usual.
Oh, and I prefer sand to rocks ANY day.2020-11-0820 min
The Stubborn TortoiseSpecial Episode: Master's Edition with Nancy MarksIf you have done any races with Tejas Trails, you have probably run across Nancy Marks.
She's got pixie-short hair, wears cute skirts and talks a lot. (Yes, even more than me.)
She just turned 60 and finished the Cactus Rose 150-miler last month. She didn't sleep. But she hallucinated, had her tunes, didn't eat much and just pushed herself to beat the cutoff.
She has a very consistent pace and a great mental outlook that I found inspiring.
She shares some of her tips as well as some war stories.
2020-11-061h 27
The Stubborn TortoiseMy Clara -- This is Heavy and WeepyI wasn't planning to talk about how much I hate this time of year, but I did.
I hate Halloween. It's the last time I saw my mother coherent. We watched part of "The Fog."
Later that night, she was suffering. I had to make a call to give her morphine to ease her pain.
She died a few days later.
This time of year is crap for me and my sister.
This year, as a pandemic rages and our country seems poised on the brink of civil war...2020-11-0124 min
The Stubborn TortoiseSuccumbing to the Voices in My HeadI struggled to find a way to inner peace as I set out to conquer the Cactus Rose 25 M on Friday. With virtually no one around, that solitude set the stage for a handful of plans to DNF, which I did.
I learned a few things about myself and my training.
Oh, also, the student magazine that I advise, won an award for being one of the best in the nation! So, there's that.
2020-10-2624 min
The Stubborn TortoiseVirtually GroundedI got an unexpected invite to join a Ragnar relay team early Wednesday evening. It was a group of ladies who I am acquainted with through the San Antonio (Off) Roadrunners. We would each run three separate loops at McAllister Park on Saturday morning, totaling 15 miles. The mileage sounded good and it sounded fun. The team was named Virtually Grounded, which is fitting.
And it was! It marked the first time I ran with a group since March. I was nervous about being too slow for them but I ended up not being too far behind, which...2020-10-1921 min
The Stubborn TortoiseGetting it Done, Even if it's Ugly-ishRunning has been pretty good, except that the weather has remained hot and humid.
I bailed on doing the in-person race, The Trailway, on Saturday because I wasn't feeling 100% and I had a bunch of grading to finish.
Saturday, I ran 6 and it felt great: it was cool-ish, but very humid. Nonetheless, my pace was slow and steady.
Sunday, it got hotter and more humid, just in time for me to finish my virtual half.
Normally, half marathons aren't a super-big deal. But this one led me to question myself about...2020-10-1218 min
The Stubborn TortoiseA Weekend in the Hills With FriendsOrly and Kathy Montalvo came up for a visit this past weekend. The plan was to run as many rocky hills to ensure his shoes and gear are ready to tackle the Cactus Rose 100 at the end of the month. He is.
I, on the other hand, came to the grim realization that I need to run more. It became abundantly clear that my spotty training has yielded crappy performance. I know what to do. Run more.
Photo: Hill Country State Natural Area2020-10-0528 min
The Stubborn TortoiseThe PerseveristsPart of the fun of volunteering at trail races is watching other runners persevere despite the suffering they endure.
On Saturday, I saw a few people struggle through their races at the Texas Trail Running Festival. A few puked. But they picked themselves up and kept going to the finish. One guy was determined to quit and was ready. Then he sat in a chair, had a gel and some cold water. He stood up, looked me in the eye and said, "You know what? I'm finishing this thing." He had 3 miles left in a marathon.
2020-09-2827 min
The Stubborn TortoiseA "Real" Race and a DisappointmentSaturday marked the first time I've done a race since March. It felt good to see friends and participate in an actual timed event. The only difference is we had to wear a face-covering at the start/finish.
I employed an eclectic playlist to get me through the 10 miles, and still had a few songs to spare.
It was a great experience, and once again, it felt as close to normal as we can get at the moment.
Unfortunately, but not surprisingly, my goal race, The Snowdrop 55-Hour event, is postponed until next...2020-09-2026 min
The Stubborn TortoiseBack in the FoldAfter seven months of not leaving my county, I headed several counties away to Pace Bend Park last weekend to help with the Mellow Trail Race, sponsored by Tejas Trails. It was pretty much how things have been in the past, with a few exceptions: face masks were required, no food at aid stations and runners had to take off their own ankle timing chip and pick up their finisher's medal from a table.
But in many ways, it was just like old times: meeting up with longtime friends, making new friends and watching runners accomplish their...2020-09-1425 min
The Stubborn TortoiseGetting Stronger on Tired LegsThe long weekend was sort of a progression run over three days: the first day was kind of rough, the second and longest run day was better and the third day -- a virtual race -- gave me the incentive to push. And it showed.
Many thanks to my friend, Maria, for joining me on Saturday and being supportive and knowing when to push me.
Hoping for cooler weather and remaining optimistic.2020-09-0726 min
The Stubborn TortoiseIroning Out the Kinks in the RoadI discovered that if I have a plan, I can get through a long run a lot easier. Some days, I don't have a plan, which is a surefire way of it turning into a chaotic experience. Not having a plan has its advantages when you're required to be flexible. It doesn't help if you're committed to covering a fair amount of ground.
Volunteering and one of my favorite races are filling up my calendar for September. It will be nice to get out of San Antonio for the first time in seven months, even if it...2020-08-3124 min
The Stubborn TortoiseTrying to Get That Groove Back -- Kind of Personal.I have been battling the negative voices in my head for a while. I had chased away those demons years ago, but they have sneaked back into my psyche. The tipping point came when I got some very unexpected and negative feedback about something last week and it went downhill from there. My inner voice kept saying, "You're a loser. You're an idiot." This not only affected my self-esteem but I also let it affect my running.
I reached out to a group on Facebook for runners over 50 and got a lot of interesting feedback.
...2020-08-2522 min
The Stubborn TortoiseMaster's Edition: Lourdes Gutierrez-KellamLongtime runner and ultra badass Lourdes Gutierrez-Kellam joins me to talk about her storied racing career. Long-distance races are her favorite. She's the type of person I would befriend at a trail race because she is easygoing and friendly.
Photo: Lourdes as she ran the 48K Skyline Trail in Jasper, Alberta in July. Yes, that is snow in those mountains!2020-08-1431 min
The Stubborn TortoiseIt Takes a VillageYesterday, it took a few of us to get Maria through her virtual 50K. It was a little ugly at times, but she did it.2020-08-0917 min
The Stubborn TortoiseFinally Out of the ClosetNo, no, no....not like that.
I have purchased a Big Boy microphone and can now record my podcast in my living room, as opposed to sitting in my bedroom closet with an iPhone.
It's kind of liberating.
My running needs some liberating as it has been in hiding most of this week.
I haven't been feeling it and have defaulted to riding my indoor bike, which produces some great sweaty workouts. But it's not a running substitute.
Hoping to get it back this week.
2020-08-0315 min
The Stubborn TortoiseMaster's Edition: Kimberly AubuchonThis is an epic and entertaining interview with my friend and coach, Kimberly Aubuchon.
She is an artist, personal trainer, running coach and all-around badass.
I hope you enjoy our interview.2020-07-271h 18
The Stubborn TortoiseUnsolicited Advice and Other StoriesI had a bit of a COVID scare last week. I purposely stayed off of social media until I knew the results,
On Saturday night, I found out I tested negative.
While most were supportive and upbeat, I had a handful of folks with unsolicited advice: I should be tested again because it was likely a false negative. Wow, way to throw cold water on you after an agonizing wait.
And while I know the advice came from a place of sincerity, that particular moment was not the time to hear this kind...2020-07-2120 min
The Stubborn TortoiseHappy Anniversary!On July 11, I. celebrated the first anniversary of this podcast. It was a crazy idea but seems to resonate with people.
COVID-19 concerns caused me to call off my plan to run at Muleshoe Bend this weekend. Instead, I will do it virtually.
Speaking of virtual races, The Flying Chanclas continue to be competitive in the Trans-Texas Virtual Run. We're battling with a couple of teams for fourth or fifth place out of over 190 teams.
Photo: from 2016 (I think). We were celebrating Orly's birthday with hill repeats.2020-07-1414 min
The Stubborn TortoiseGetting CompetitiveThis week, I ramped up the mileage -- probably a little too much -- for a good reason.
My team, The Flying Chanclas, is virtually running across all 879 miles across Texas. I formed the team as sort of a lark -- something to do during the dog days and beyond. We started on July 1 and of this recording, we are in a dead heat for 4th-5th place out of 183 teams in the 5-person relay.
I had no idea we would be competitive but seeing that we shot up sort of quickly has emboldened my...2020-07-0520 min
The Stubborn TortoiseAdventures and BummersTrail running is all about the stories and adventures. My "bubble" friend, Maria, and I made one on a Saturday slog uphill to what seemed like heaven. (Not really, but it was a spectacularly steep climb).
Excited to start the Trans-Texas Virtual Race this week. But I am concerned about upcoming events later in the summer and fall because Texas has turned into a hotbed for COVID-19 infections and deaths.
It once again messed with my head, but I am planning to soldier on, regardless. That's all we can do.2020-06-2921 min
The Stubborn TortoiseSugar Badger Virtual HalfI ran my second virtual race on Saturday. It was a struggle because I haven't gone that far since February. But, I toughed it out, mentally, along with the company of my friend, Maria, for a few miles.
I'm getting better at running on tired feet and working on my mental game.
I signed up for a virtual race across Texas with four others, starting July 1.
Feeling great about being motivated, yet concerned that we might be locked down again, killing that feeling.
Stay tuned.
Photo f...2020-06-2216 min
The Stubborn TortoiseStreaking! No, Not That KindAfter months of lethargy and turgid running, I eked out 17.5 miles in four days. I know it's not record-setting, but it's a start. It felt good to run four days in a row. May shoot for a couple more days and then rest up before my virtual Sugar Badger half on Saturday.
Also, shuffle over to Apple podcasts and give this thing a rating and leave a review. It won't hurt. I promise.
If you're feeling generous, consider being a sponsor. Use the anchor link to do so. If not, no biggie, but I'd like to...2020-06-1513 min
The Stubborn TortoiseCovid-19 and Protests: The Adventures of Matt Maday and Cassandra TurnerThis ultrarunner couple has navigated a couple of nights in jail (for quarantine), "sneaked" into national parks and have had a variety of adventures, including having the windows broken out at their hotel in Chicago (apologies because I said it was Dallas) during protests. They're professional runners traveling the globe with their super-cute dog, Smokey. They're living the dream -- experiencing adventures and running crazy distances. This is a special episode.
Cassandra's Instagram, Matt's Instagram2020-06-0754 min
The Stubborn TortoiseMaster's Edition: Interview With Donald FlynnPart 4 of our master's series. We meet Donald Flynn, a San Antonio-based runner who took up running to get out of going to gym class. He abandoned the sport for decades and picked it back up 5 years ago at the age of 60. He has finished three 100-milers and has his sights set on at least one more this year. He has some great stories to tell including when he "geezered" a young guy.2020-06-0144 min
The Stubborn TortoiseNormal...sort ofI returned to running, a bit, this week. So far, so good. Had a social distance ride with my friend, Maria and got to have lunch with my very good friends, the Montalvos on Memorial Day. Yes, we social distanced.
Things feel a little closer to normal, but to be honest, as the US inches toward 100,000 deaths, I made a grim observation: as of April 24, we had 51,000 deaths. Thirty days later, we almost doubled that number.
Stay safe and manage your risk.2020-05-2510 min
The Stubborn TortoiseSocial Distance Get-TogetherAfter almost three months, I pulled the trigger and set up a "play date" with my friend, Maria.
We met up at Hot Wells ruins on Sunday morning and took a socially distanced bike ride.
It was so much fun and nice to have a conversation with someone in person and not feel like we were "cheating."
My ankle is officially sprained, which means running is on hiatus for a few weeks. This is going to be interesting trying to catch up on my training for big races at the end of the y...2020-05-1816 min
The Stubborn TortoiseSetting Goals in the Midst of a PandemicI am joined by Donald Flynn of San Antonio and returning guests, Kathy and Orlando Montalvo of Mission, Texas.
We talk about the complications of training for virtual races and whether the "real" races we're signed up for later in the year will actually happen. Flynn and the Montalvos are signed up for the Great Virtual Race Across Tennessee 1,000K. Essentially, you run 620 miles between May 1 and Aug. 31, or a minimum of 5 miles a day.
I really want to join in, but I'm already 11 days behind and -- guess what? I rolled my stupid ankle las...2020-05-1151 min
The Stubborn TortoiseMoving Forward, Bit by BitTrying to keep a normal schedule during this crisis is challenging. I miss working aid stations and wonder what they'll be like as we move forward. We used to joke about people drinking from the same cup or getting their hands in the snacks. "Eh, we're trail runners, this is what we do. " But I wonder about what they'll be like.
Running still remains something I want to do but I feel distracted or start too late and don't get in the mileage I wanted.
I will do my first virtual race today. Will report bac...2020-05-0421 min
The Stubborn TortoiseMaster's Edition - Interview with Kathy MontalvoI have known Kathy for a while -- through her husband, Orlando -- originally. They are two of my dearest friends. Kathy is a newish runner, but she's done a boatload of ultras, including three hundos. She's a little new to the Master's scene, but a worthy contender. She's extraordinary in that she hasn't quit a race yet and just chugs along at a decent pace.
Photo: Kathy finishing her third hundred-miler at the Snowdrop 55-Hour Race in December.
2020-04-2645 min
The Stubborn TortoiseLooking for the GoodNot much running happening these days. It takes so much mental energy to get through each day that I feel spent. And when I do run, it feels stressful navigating groups of people. I reflect on the story of my mom and purple roses and try to be uplifting.
Photo: Mission Espada in San Antonio2020-04-2018 min
The Stubborn TortoiseLife During COVID-19, episode 1 -- staying motivatedHow do runners stay motivated to get moving when races are canceled and groups have disbanded?
I know this is a First-World problem, but it is something that the running community considers.
This is a Zoom call with Jeff Rhodes, Orlando and Kathy Montalvo and Sara Hernandez, one of my former students.
We managed to persuade Sara to come to the dark side and become a trail runner!
Photo: Screenshot of the chat.2020-04-1244 min
Ten Junk MilesMeet The Nation #21 - Donna Pazdera Meet Donna Pazdera. Nation Member, podcaster, runner. Link to her show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-stubborn-tortoise/id1472886037 #RunTJM2020-04-0829 min
The Stubborn TortoiseLife During COVID-19After two weeks of struggling with allergy-induced laryngitis, I have finally returned. I weigh in on how this pandemic is affecting me and I try to share some optimism, along with a rant or two. The best part of my days is when I get to "see" my students for class meetings, talk to my sister and friends. Had a Zoom meetup on Sunday afternoon and it went really well. Got to chat up my friends from the Rio Grande Valley. We'll be doing this on the regular.
The podcast is probably going to take a little s...2020-04-0623 min
The Stubborn TortoiseMaster's Edition, Episode 2 Lynn HaukaThis is the story of Lynn Hauka, 62, a master's runner living in San Antonio. She just placed first in master's at the Spider Mountain race last month and is fairly new to trail running. She will tackle her first ultra in November at Dinosaur Valley.2020-03-1640 min
The Stubborn TortoiseTurning a CornerFelt really good on Saturday at the Prickly Pear trail race. I ran much of it and felt great. Hilariously, I still managed to place last in my age group. Nonetheless, went back out there for 6 bonus miles. Starting to feel more confident about my abilities as I eye the Brazos Bend 50K next month. Ha, ha...I signed up for that last week. And I managed to crash the Alamo 26.2 during a run on Sunday.2020-03-0913 min
The Stubborn TortoiseWhat's in your (drop) bag?Drop bags are an important part of trail racing -- especially when doing ultra-distance races. Here are some tips I've gathered over the years to make creating your drop bag a cinch.2020-03-0211 min
The Stubborn TortoiseMaster's Edition: Interview With Louisa EscamillaThis is the first in an occasional series about master's runners. My good friend, Louisa Escamilla, was picked as my first guest. She is a cancer survivor and recently broke her ankle on a descent at Bandera. She's healing up but is eager to get back at it. She is one of the toughest runners I know.
Photo: Sullivan City trails a few years ago.2020-02-2435 min
The Stubborn TortoiseDo Trail Runners Poop in the Woods? And Other StoriesI literally had to pull this episode out of my, well, you know.
And it's a pretty important aspect of trail running, but not something discussed in polite company.
So, if you're offended by this sort of stuff, feel free to skip to the last three minutes.
Also, here is the link to my favorite 50K training plan. 2020-02-1715 min
The Stubborn TortoiseIt Might Have Been Rocky (Raccoon) But it Was Smooth RunningI finally had a great race -- probably one of my favorites of all time. I ran the half marathon on Saturday at the Rocky Raccoon 50 at Huntsville State Park. I LOVE this course. I did watch my step with the roots and made some trail friends, so my time wasn't super-fast. But I'm satisfied with how it all went. Great weather, vibe and course made it a great experience.2020-02-1012 min
The Stubborn TortoiseThe SamaritansSometimes, you have to decide if it's better to set aside personal goals and help someone else. Plus an update on my intentions for Rocky Raccoon on Feb. 8. And I talk about plans for an occasional feature on master's athletes.
Photo: Carly and Javi.2020-02-0318 min
The Stubborn TortoiseWhat Do You Call an Impatient Runner?Injury or nagging aches and pains can really be a drag. I am on the fence about gutting out a 50K next weekend versus playing it safe and running a half marathon. I have an achy hip and don't want to be debilitated, so my decision will be made next week.
Also, I share an inspiring message from a fellow runner who just earned a beauty of a buckle at a 108K over the weekend.
Here is the link to Louisa's Go Fund Me.2020-01-2814 min
The Stubborn TortoiseGroup PowerIt really helps to have a training group, because if you're me, you will occasionally decide it's OK to not do what you're planning to do. It also helps to have a running buddy. In my case, it's Maria, who is about my pace and makes easy conversation.
I also ran my first 5K in about 5 years. It was surprisingly OK.
Also, I give y'all an update on Louisa, who broke her ankle last week during a fall at Bandera.
Here is her Go Fund Me link if you would like to chip i...2020-01-2121 min
The Stubborn TortoiseThings Happen for a ReasonI ended up losing my friends at a race due to a handful of stupid delays/impediments on Sunday at the Hoke One One Bandera trail run. Those delays led to me being where I needed to be at the end after a friend got seriously injured during a fall.
Photo: Louisa, Kelly. and Vero.
Photo by: Julio Montalvo of Counterpunch Media2020-01-1426 min
The Stubborn TortoiseRunning in Circles at NightI spent my New Year running (and walking) for six hours from midnight to 6 am for a good cause. It also provided an avenue to mend a fence or two, as well as provide some much-needed confidence. I also discuss my upcoming races, including one where I will travel to Wisconsin, of all places!2020-01-0722 min
The Stubborn TortoiseDamn Everything But the CircusI had some unusual mental demons haunting me at a race on Saturday: a couple of nightmares in the days before. That, coupled with being the caboose and a few other things had me battling the DNF Fairy the entire time.
I am, admittedly, in a bit of a slump. I'm working on how to break out of it. I guess this is all part of the deal with running.2019-12-1614 min
The Stubborn TortoiseA Few of My Favorite ThingsSince it's That Time of Year, I wanted to share with you some of my suggestions for gear for the runner in your life. Or, maybe yourself!
You are an experiment of one, so take my suggestions as just that.
If you have no ideas, a gift certificate to a local running store is always a winner. :)
Photo features Rabbit tank top and shorts and an Amphipod handheld bottle.2019-12-1113 min
The Stubborn TortoiseThis One is HeavyI had an epiphany near the end of a run on Saturday. It led to facing past demons and the baggage that comes with it.
It may trigger some with eating disorders, so be warned.
This one deals with self-worth, self-image, a borderline eating disorder and depression.
It is also about not blaming people for the hand you're dealt. Ultimately, this is uplifting. I am good.
It was hard finding a photo for this episode but I chose this sunflower field that I shot in Garciasville, Texas a couple of years...2019-12-0214 min
The Stubborn TortoiseNever Underestimate a Race or a WorkoutIt's easy to underestimate a race or training run when things have gone well for a long while.
Well, I learned that struggles can sneak up on you after a good streak. Pushing through and reminding yourself that things won't always be there tomorrow are important lessons.
Photo of me and Judith on the rock dome at Reveille Peak Ranch.2019-11-2515 min
The Stubborn TortoiseLos Amigos del ValleTwo super-cool things happened on Saturday: I got to run my favorite trail race of the year, and I caught up with some good friends from the Rio Grande Valley. This is kind of an homage to the RGV, the place where I first discovered trail running.
I also talk about a race I did over the summer in the RGV, which is held at my favorite running spot.
Oh, and a shout-out to a guy from Houston named Shawn, who recognized my voice as we waited to pick up our race bibs yesterday. That...2019-11-1818 min
The Stubborn TortoisePerseverance Pays aka Don't Worry About Your Time (Sorta)This is episode 20!!!! On Sunday, I rang a cowbell, filled up water bottles, made some sort of crappy peanut butter, banana and honey tortillas, all while encouraging the folks doing the Hill Country Trivium. It's a road race put on by Brad and Nyla Quinn, of Tejas Trails, but it's a hilly challenge. Two college seniors stole our hearts as they claimed their first marathon, accidental ultra and DFL..
I went back into the time machine and recalled my sort-of-similar experience at the Heroes 25K race in Brownsville, where you battle the heat as much as the...2019-11-1121 min
The Stubborn TortoiseTen Junk Russian Nesting DollsThis is a podcast about a podcast. Hence the Russian nesting dolls reference. I got to watch the recording of my favorite running podcast, "Ten Junk Miles," and meet its host, Scott Kummer. He shared a little podcasting intel at the end of the evening. I tried not to fangirl.
Inexplicably, I manage to work in a reference to my new favorite artist, Orville Peck, whom I also met a month ago. Peck has an incredible voice and his debut album, "Pony," is so listenable that I haven't yet tired of it.
Anyway, so yeah, t...2019-11-0412 min
The Stubborn TortoiseEl Course-o LocoSaturday's race was full of surprises: a race director dressed as a taco, a guy in a taco truck on the trails and pretty much everyone getting lost. It was the inaugural El Taco Loco race, held just south of San Antonio. I missed a section and made up for it by backtracking before crossing the finish line. Good race and experience.
Part two is about a themed event: the inaugural Die Hard on the Powerlines. This guy came up with the crazy idea that we could choose 6, 12 or 24 hours to run/hike San Antonio's famed Powerlines...2019-10-2820 min
The Stubborn TortoiseTrail v. RoadAh, the question for the ages: which do you prefer, trail or road?
Me, I think the answer is pretty clear. I'd rather be out in the woods than on a city street most any day. There are benefits to both and each is to be respected. I just ran a trail race with a bunch of predominantly road runners. I thought for sure I would get them on the gnarly sections. Instead, it was the other way around. They *ran* the whole dang thing. We trail runners occasionally hike through tough sections and uphill. Now I'm...2019-10-2120 min
The Stubborn TortoiseRespect the DistanceSometimes, you have to make a call to reset your expectations because the training isn't there. This happened to me this weekend as I decided to drop from 50K to 25K in two weeks. Life has gotten in the way and I'm afraid of reigniting old injuries by not training properly.
Some people can gut it out and my hat is off to them. That's just not me.
And earlier this year, I attempted a 100-miler. That didn't go as planned. But it was a good experience for learning.
The photo is me, K...2019-10-1416 min
The Stubborn TortoiseDo the Hokey Pokey and Turn Yourself Around aka Getting LostI have managed to get lost trying to find the start of a race, to adding miles to a race, to getting lost on a 1,000-acre ranch. Somehow, I've lived to tell about it.2019-10-0714 min
The Stubborn TortoiseA Tale of Two 50-MilersMy first attempt at a 50-miler ended disastrously and with my quickest DNF in history. It included a trip to the ER with a super-caffeinated, fast-talking crazy man and four stitches.
The next time, a few weeks later, things ended much better, even though I had wet feet the entire time and got really cranky.
*There are a couple of curse words in this episode, which is why I flagged it as explicit.2019-09-3025 min
The Stubborn TortoiseThree Muddy Ultras and an InspirationThis episode chronicles my first three ultras: each one an epic mudfest.
The first was just a beginner's stupidity. The second one got VERY personal and emotional. The third, I wanted to quit but was inspired by a couple of guys who'd never run more than 6 miles. Yeah, they jumped from 6 to 31 miles and lived to tell about it.
Since then, I've had some "normal" races and am training for my next one in a month.2019-09-2337 min
The Stubborn TortoiseAtonement, Sinatra and Fireball and Other Stories of That Aid Station LifeBeing on the other side of the table is almost as much fun as the race. This is a three-parter about some of my experiences providing assistance to sweaty, muddy, dirty trail runners. Many cameo appearances in this one! The episode photo is of Joel Olivares, David Zuniga, Bella Olivares, Victoria Olivares (no relation), Cris Guerra and me. We had a few others helping that day at the first J&J race, who aren't pictured. Grab a cup of Coke, Tailwind or a shot of Fireball and give it a listen!2019-09-1628 min
The Stubborn TortoiseNot Today, DNF FairyThere are times when the DNF FaIry appears during a race and you have to ignore her/him. Had it not been for a new friend dressed like an elf, I probably wouldn't have made it through my second 50-miler.2019-09-0614 min
The Stubborn TortoiseDo You Still Have a Little Shuffle Left in You?The DNF (did not finish) fairy was whispering to me hard at a tough weekend race....I had a couple of people inspiring me and I finished.2019-09-0315 min
The Stubborn TortoiseThe Expensive, the Sodden and the UglyRunning would seem like an inexpensive sport...until you factor in the extras.
Also, if you're high maintenance, running is probably not for you.
I attempt to strike a lopsided balance between being a girl who loves Sephora and one who becomes a sodden mess after a few miles.2019-08-2411 min
The Stubborn TortoiseThe CheatersI have no idea why people cheat at races, but they do. It's not a good idea.2019-08-1614 min
The Stubborn TortoiseEvery Moment's a Little Bit LaterA handful of doctors said my thyroid had to go. I felt fine, but it was going to start affecting my ability to swallow, so I had to have surgery.
I was worried about what would happen to me afterward: would I be lethargic, gain weight, unable to run? As someone with a borderline eating disorder as a teenager, the weight gain part terrified me.
The episode title is from a Wilco song, "Pot Kettle Black." I take the refrain to mean don't put off what you can do today because tomorrow isn't guaranteed. It's...2019-08-0922 min
The Stubborn TortoiseThe Mental SherpaThis one is in three parts: how one friend mentally sherpa-ed me through my first 20-miler, then I repaid the favor a few months later by pacing him at his first attempt at a hundred-miler. From that experience, I applied what I'd learned to help pace another friend through her first hundred.
This is a tale paved with success and failure -- but in the end, it's all about life: eat, drink, put one foot in front of the other and you'll have a great story to tell when it's over.2019-08-0238 min
The Stubborn TortoiseVivir con miedo, es como vivir a mediasRunning along the US-Mexico border is full of adventures that most runners don't experience: Border Patrol agents flying above you in helicopters, agents looking for migrants and smugglers, and once -- being chased by a pack of agents who thought we were migrants. (Hey, somebody has to keep those agents in shape!) This episode is about my life's credo: "Vivir con miedo, es como vivir a medias" -- a life lived in fear is a life half-lived.
Link to the map showing you one of our favorite playgrounds.
Strictly Ballroom and one more clip. 2019-07-2617 min
The Stubborn TortoiseRedemption After a DNFSometimes, races don't go the way we plan them. In this case, I cut my losses early and was overcome with a variety of emotions: relief, self-doubt, self-flagellation. The good part is, there's usually another race to prove oneself.
In this case, there was redemption, but just not the way I'd imagined it.
Capt'n Karl's Reveille Peak Ranch race
Back on My Feet -- really great cause!2019-07-1931 min
The Stubborn TortoiseTrail Foes and FriendsThis is a story in contrasts.
I start off talking about a guy who may or may not have unwittingly cost me a race with his negative viewpoints and attitude. (11/12)
But it ends well.
Next, I tell you about my "Best Summer-Camp Friend," a charming 11-year-old named Gabriel, who joined me -- along with his friend, Isaiah at Bandera in January 2016. It's one of my all-time favorite stories.2019-07-1516 min
The Stubborn TortoiseRuncation in San Saba + Chasing Mental DemonsThis story is from August 2013. I'm publishing it now because the Capt'n Karl's nighttime race at Colorado Bend is coming up on Aug. 3.
This is about the adventures of a handful of runners from the RGV traveling six hours for a night race. We sampled pretty much all the food in town. Then we ran the race.
Here are some of the places mentioned in the piece: San Saba Olive Oil Co.
Wedding Oak Winery, Alamo Pecan Co.
Colorado Bend State Park
Larry's Corner Cafe2019-07-1123 min
The Stubborn TortoiseA Few Things About The Stubborn Tortoise PodcastWelcome to the first episode! I'm pretty much an average trail runner with above-average enthusiasm for the sport. These are my stories and I hope you enjoy them.2019-07-1113 min