Shows
The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastCareless Whispers - Trends That We Love And Trends That We HateMeghan and Sean talk about trends in the endurance sports world and life as whole. Some are exciting, some are bothersome. There are some rants and there may be some careless whispers you’ll have to listen to hear. The trends we discuss during this podcast are: 1) Outdoor Apparel as fashion 2) Training women as women 3) Is the hundred mile distance the new marathon? 4) Speakerphone phone talkers 5) The death of the album 6) Technology and social media in sport. Of course there will be many side bars and digressions, per the usual Meghan and Sean.
2024-11-071h 45The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastZenduranceNow Mix Tape Vol. 1, EncoreMusic is LIFE!
Meghan and Sean talk about their top 6 current songs. Use this link for ZenduranceNow Apple Music Playlist: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/zendurancenow-comfortably-uncomfortable/pl.u-KVXByaWTZzbpLo
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5rRJastdmFuAyCndrEDmNS?si=7vQClUOHSNKMLvNq28BJBw
Sean’s corrections:
Linkin Park singer is Chester Bennington
Anthrax and Public Enemy Bring the Noise not Anthrax and Run DMC
The make a wish child was 16 yr old Kenny Sykaluk, and Only the Young was released on Journey’s Warrior Album in 1984
Meghan has no corrections because Sean does the ed...
2024-11-041h 18The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastWhale Sounds, Chewbacca, & Civil War Reenactments ENCORETalking about life and shootin’ the sh*t. Meghan catches us up on the status of her recovery from her most recent surgery, how she’s doing, and her feelings about PT and recovery. The discussions dissolve into conversations about recent concerts and Covid. They talk about Meghan’s injury, Sean’s allergies, bomb threats, shooter drills, and the helplessness of it all. They also chat about whale sounds, Chewbacca, and Civil War re-enactments. Conversations wrap up with discussions about biking, bikes, and the irony of Meghan being forced to bike because of the very thing that caused her injury i...
2024-10-281h 33The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastCompassionate Grit EncoreMeghan and Sean explore the ins and outs of the consistency required to train for endurance events. There is no magic pill to training, training sometimes requires an athlete to grind it out. Making excuses and turning into a weekend warrior only leads to disappointment and injury. The social mediaziation of endurance athletics isn’t the real story. The real story is the grit involved in the training. The tears and blood shed on the trails are the truths that Meghan and Sean address. Being disciplined is important for the results one is looking for. At times the priorities nee...
2024-10-191h 34The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastWhere It All Began, Episode 1 EncoreEncore! Our very first podcast is born! Welcome! Sean and Meghan talk about where their lives are now, why this podcast is important, and they make a decent attempt to recreate the conversations they have during long runs.
2024-10-171h 30The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastSay It Ain't So Sean, Part 2This is a bittersweet show for Coaches Meghan, Sean, and Sam. Sean has made the decision to leave the podcast due to time constraints. We have chosen this episode to look back at our favorite podcast moments. Listen and enjoy!
Part 2
Meghan's Favorites: Whale Sound Podcast epidode 4, Talking about Sam's Genesis Album in episode 49, Sam's hippie brown car jamming music story episode 24, when Meghan Almost Died episodes 41 and 42, Sam and Sophie episode 46, and The Arborist episode 31
Outtake Songs: "Junkie Man" Rancid, "No Easy Way Out" Robert Pepper, and "My Way" Sex Pistols
...
2024-07-0855 minThe Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastSay It Ain't So Sean!! Part 1This is a bittersweet show for Coaches Meghan, Sean, and Sam. Sean has made the decision to leave the podcast due to time constraints. We have chosen this episode to look back at our favorite podcast moments. Listen and enjoy!
Part 1
Sean's Favorites: B roll bloopers, ASMR episode 28.
Sams's favorites: Sean Pooped his Pants with Finn episode 48, Marc Kelley episode 52, Hannah and Matt episodes 57 and 34, Phil Garcia episodes 38 and 39
Outtake Song: "Goodbye to You," Patty Smyth
2024-07-0151 minThe Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastENCORE! Weird Stories: Seen, Heard, and Experienced While Running Way Too MuchWhen you spend a lot of time outside weird things are bound to occur- right? At least this is what Sean and Meghan are telling themselves. Please join us for our listener submitted stories. We laugh a lot and there's a lot of head shaking. Here's a list of the stories that were told:
John Lennon
Death Race Hallucinations
Sean’s Virgil Crest
Matt’s poop story
Rick Vomit at Infinitus
Rick DNF’s stories cut 18:47-21:07
Fernando Chases a girl
Chest bumps gone a...
2024-06-181h 15The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastEncore: Hannah and Matt, our favorite trail couple
Matt Shinn began his 888k race at The Infinitus Trail Races. That's 888 kilometers/552 miles at the Infinitus Trail Races in Vermont from May 16-26. Please send him your best wishes, mojo, stretch, prayers, vibes, whatever you've got. He has worked and trained and he is ready. Also, his partner Hannah Hawley will be supporting him because as we all know, endeavors like this can't be done without support.
Meghan and Sean talk with Matt Shinn and Hannah Hawley. Matt and Hannah met while Matt was thru hiking the Appalachian Trail. They are now married and sh...
2024-05-171h 20The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastThe ZenduranceNow TribeIf you are easily offended, well, you won't like Sean very much, and maybe this isn't the podcast for you. Be warned, Sean may have topped himself in how inappropriate one can get on the podcast. If you're aren't easily offended, well, then, you're welcome for the laughs. Meghan and Sean discuss Sean's recovery from a broken leg. Sean explores missing the beginning of New England's race season. Meghan talks about the lack of community and talks about Sebastian Junger's book Tribe. And if that's too nerdy for you, they dumb it down and talk about the new movie "...
2024-05-071h 46The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastSean are you OK?Meghan checks in with Sean to see how is feeling after his skiing accident. Sean reports that he broke his tibia and describes his accident, surgery, and stay in the hospital. Sean ponders his plans for the remainder of the year and is cautiously optimistic about his rehab and prognosis for the fall.
Thanks to Coach John Harris for filling on our last podcast.
Outtake Song: "Pressure," Billy Joel
2024-04-2252 minThe Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastSpiders, Teeth, Bats, & Paddleboards OH MY! Special Guest Coach John HarrisWelcome to a another episode of Comfortably Uncomfortable: Not Another Running Story.
In this episode, we discuss the experiences of being an athlete and the surprising injuries that come with it. John Harris, an experienced podcaster and athlete, steps in to fill for our co-host Sean Meehan's unexpected absence. Sean's unfortunate skiing accident sparks an emotional dialogue on personal experiences of injury, recovery, self-care and resilience.
Join us as we reminisce on a unique 12-hour old-school ultra race, as we share a laughter about banana spiders and a casual feline that stunned Meghan mid-trail race...
2024-04-081h 26The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastAnyone Know An Arborist?Sean gets hit in the head and seeks an Arborist to tell him he's not at fault. Meghan discusses her love of horror movies. Sean discusses Gleaming the Cube and Dr Giggles. The discussion moves into summer plans, camping in Acadia and trying to fit all of the fun into life. Sean discusses how race lotteries in December start to influence the summer family calendar. And Sean hates dogs and denies his family canine love and companionship.
Outtake song: "Folsom Prison Blues" Johnny Cash
2024-03-261h 06The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastWelcome to Comfortably UncomfortableBack in time... enjoy our first episode! This is where it all began.
Our very first podcast is born! Welcome! Sean and Meghan talk about where their lives are now, why this podcast is important, and they make a decent attempt to recreate the conversations they have during long runs.
Outtake song: Drive by Truckers, We Ain’t Never Gonna Change
2024-03-101h 29The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastMarc Kelly Ultrarunner & Adventure Seeking EnthusiastWe continue profiling stories from the mid pack and bring mid pack athletes onto the podcast. In this episode Meg and Sean down with Marc Kelly a Connecticut ultrarunner and Sean's friend. Marc lets us into his “why” and his internal motivation and how he stepped up his training in recent years and with renewed focus has created a world he loves being a part of. This is highlighted by Marc regaling us with stories from the Jigger Johnson 100 mile trail race. If after listening to this podcast you don’t want to hit the trails with Marc you might...
2024-02-251h 01The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastChris Wristen Die Hard Mid-Packer & Founder of Mass UltraCoaches Meghan, Sean, and Sam talk with Chris Wristen founder of Mass Ultra. Chris created Mass Ultra covers ultra races in Massachusetts. Chris talks about moving to Massachusetts with his wife and how he used his education in journalism and background to help him become a part of the ultra running community. He discussed how the ultra community and sport has grown over the past ten years. Chris discussed his thoughts on the recent UTMB controversy. Chris also talks about the importance of the stories from the middle of the pack a focus for us on this podcast. If...
2024-02-131h 03The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastBest Records? Let the Debate Continue! Part 2Chaos, laughter, and fun continue with the whole ZenduranceNow Gang! Coaches Meghan, Sean, and Sam talk about their favorite full length records. We hope you have as much fun listening as we did recording this. This is part 2 of 2.
Outtake Song: "Shine On You Crazy Diamond, Part 2" Pink Floyd
2024-02-021h 21The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastBest Records? Let The Debate Begin! Part 1We have a great podcast for you! Chaos, laughter, and fun with the whole ZenduranceNow Gang! Coaches Meghan, Sean, and Sam talk about their favorite full length records. We hope you have as much fun listening as we did recording this. This is part 1 of 2.
Outtake Song: "Songbird," Fleetwood Mac
2024-01-081h 18The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastFinn Meehan and his dad Coach SeanYou are in for a big treat. Join us for this special Christmas podcast episode with Finn Meehan. Finn was coached by his dad, our very own Coach Sean. Finn talks about his first 5k and then about his most recent 5k when he beat his previous time by 10 minutes!! Finn made us laugh so much and even told very embarrassing stories about his dad that had Meghan laughing and doubled over in tears. Finn is an incredible young man and is a great reminder that our sport can be challenging but it should always be fun.
...
2023-12-2651 minThe Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastVT 100 Mile Race Director and Endurance Athlete Amy Rusiecki
Meghan and Sean sit down with the amazing Race Director and athlete Amy Rusiecki. We talk about how she was introduced into the ultra/trail running community and her personal accomplishments in the sport. We discuss how Amy went from running the Bill Koch Ski League to becoming the race director of the Vermont 100 mile and 7 Sisters trail races. We dive into inclusivity in ultra running and how Amy is using her platform to promote LGBTQ+ and women in sport. Finishing up we all discuss the upcoming race season and Amy talks to us from both her perspective as a...
2023-12-181h 02The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastFather and Daughter Endurance Racing with Sam and Sophia FarnsworthMeghan and Sean sit down and catch up with Coach Sam after his amazing success at the Javelina Jundred 100 mile race. Sam brought with him a very special guest; his daughter, pacer, and crew Sophia. During this conversation with Sam and Sophia we talk about how the race unfolded and Sophia’s roll in helping Sam achieve his goals in Arizona. Sam battled through the heat of the desert sun and the typical ultra marathon issues to successfully navigate his way to a successful finish. Coach Sam shares his experiences Sophia’s perspective on the event and crewing for her...
2023-12-0453 minThe Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastMeghan and Sean talk about Life, Stress, and EntertainmentSean has been dealing with some illness and injury that most likely resulted from his lack of recovery after an intense racing season. Pivot to "What to Watch." Meghan discussed the movie "Nyad" on Netflix and how it really inspired her. Sean’s discussed "Welcome to Wrexham" on Hulu. They next discuss recent events in endurance sports including issues that with Ironman / UTMB and Harvey Lewis’s record setting performance at Big Dog’s Backyard Ultra.
Check out our new YouTube Channel @ZenduranceNow
Outtake Song: Joni Mitchell, "Woodstock"
2023-11-221h 46The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastCoach Sam Preps for his BIG RACECoaches Meghan and Sean talk with Coach Sam prior to his run at Javelina Jundred 100 mile race in Arizona. After a brief talk about what Sam’s plans are to successfully execute we get into how Sam approaches his "taper" also known as pre race prep and chill. Sam takes us through his weeks prior to the race and how he deals with the drop in running mileage. Sean and Meghan offer their personal insights into how they deal with tapers and the effects from tapering. The conversation shifts to how Sam plans to deal with post race blues if...
2023-11-061h 05The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastSuccess as an Older AthleteZenduranceNow Coaches Meghan, Sean, and Sam discuss training older athletes. The discussion ranges from hormones, bone density, supplements, and just general health. They address modifications in training protocols for older athlete and how strength and mobility become a bigger focus to stimulate and regulate hormone changes. The discussion also clarifies needs based on gender. Sam recommends Joe Friel’s Fast After 50. We also mention Stacy Sims and the information contained in her books Roar and Next Level.
Sponsor: www.HelloThematic.com For 1 free month use Promo Code: FA11PROMO
Outtake Song: "Shooting' Dirty Pool," Replacements...
2023-10-231h 23The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastThe Day Meghan Crash And Almost Died, Part 2Meghan and Sean talk in depth about the bike crash that almost killed her in June of 2006. This is a very special and emotional episode for Meghan. Sean delves into the physical, mental, and emotional sides of Meghan's trauma. They talk in depth about what happened during and immediately following the crash. Meghan shares how this has reshaped her self perception from a physical and emotional perspective. Sean asks Meghan how she grew through the experience, the setbacks, and the surgeries. Sean also asks Meghan about her lowest points during her continued recovery and how things began to improve...
2023-10-091h 06The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastThe Day Meghan Crashed and Almost Died, Part 1Meghan and Sean talk in depth about the bike crash that almost killed her in June of 2006. This is a very special and emotional episode for Meghan. Sean delves into the physical, mental, and emotional sides of Meghan's trauma. They talk in depth about what happened during and immediately following the crash. Meghan shares how this has reshaped her self perception from a physical and emotional perspective. Sean asks Meghan how she grew through the experience, the setbacks, and the surgeries. Sean also asks Meghan about her lowest points during her continued recovery and how things began to improve...
2023-09-2556 minThe Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastSean’s ”failure” and what he learned from itMeghan and Sean discuss Sean’s first "Did Not Finish" aka DNF. Sean recently DNF’d at Jigger Johnson 100 mile in the White Mountains. Sean shares his mindset going into the race, and how the wheels came off the bus. Meghan also digs into why what may seem like a failure sometimes is not. And how those failures actually make for stronger athletes. They finish up the conversation with the idea of “chasing dragons”.
Outtake Song: "Codefendents," Defcons
2023-09-111h 23The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastThe Humble King of the White Mountains Phil Carcia, part 2Meg and Sean sit down and talk with Philip Carcia. Phil is an avid hiker best know for his hiking “projects” in the Whites of New Hampshire. After a brief introduction we discuss his motivations for his experiences as a long distance hiker. His “practice” and vision was drastically changed with the death of his father. Sean and Phil discuss how the death of their parents has changed their perspectives when it comes to the lowest moments while pushing their physical and emotional limits on the trail. Phil discusses his most recent experience in the Whites on a full moon tra...
2023-08-281h 01The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastThe Humble King of the White Mountains Phil Carcia, Part 1Meghan and Sean sit down and talk with Philip Carcia, the Humble King of the White Mountains. Phil is an avid hiker best know for his hiking “projects” in the Whites of New Hampshire. After a brief introduction we discuss his motivations for his experiences as a long distance hiker. His “practice” and vision was drastically changed with the death of his father. Sean and Phil discuss how the death of their parents has changed their perspectives when it comes to the lowest moments while pushing their physical and emotional limits on the trail. Phil discusses his most recent experien...
2023-08-161h 06The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastChasing Dreams at Western States 100 mile raceCoaches Meg, Sean, and Sam sit down and talk about Sean's goal of 10+ years... Western States 100 mile. Coach Sam was also in California for the Western States as he was supporting his daughter Sophia. This is a story about working towards and committing to a goal. This being the 50th Anniversary of Western States made the journey all the more sweet for all involved. Sean explains in brief the history and importance of this 100 mile race before they both dive into their experiences in California.
Sean and Sam reflect upon their experiences in the mountains of California traveling from Tahoe t...
2023-08-011h 18The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastMarshall Collins the O.G. of RunningMeghan and Sean sit down with Meghan’s father Marshall Collins on his birthday and talk running from his perspective. He shares with us humbling stories and humor, beating Amby Burfoot only to realize Amby was at a distinct disadvantage, trying to beat legendary Patti Catalano, and unfortunately sharing the same track as Olympic medal winner Rick Wohlhuter. We dive into his thoughts on the Boston Marathon, Meghan as a Cross Country racer, and kids at and in races. He shares with us his thoughts on the sport today and trail and ultra running vs. road and marathon running. He le...
2023-07-171h 27The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastWhat we’re watching, reading, and listening toSean and Meghan talk about the media they are currently enjoying including what they are reading, watching, and listening to. Meghan immediately triggers Sean with her choice of reading material and later triggers him again with a discussion about masculinity in media. They discuss the merits of Ted Lasso and masculinity as portrayed in sporting media. After a lively discussion about toxic masculinity the discussion shifts to music and what we are both listening to. Even though Sean is not actually reading anything he shares about a recent purchase for leisure reading when he gets through with Western States. They...
2023-07-031h 25The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastMental Health and Sport (Replay)Our very own Sean Meehan is running Western States 100 mile in California today! Please send him great energy, mojo, prayers, well wishes- whatever works for you.
Sean and Meghan talk mental health and fitness. This includes: the connection between mind and body and the stigma that exists around mental health and how this is changing as education becomes more prevalent. The importance of empathy and compassion while dealing with mental health is stressed. Meghan and Sean discuss some of their personal experiences dealing with those with mental health problems. They also discuss the impact of COVID on...
2023-06-241h 33The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastMatt Shin & Hannah Hawley
Meghan and Sean talk with Matt Shinn and Hannah Hawley. Matt and Hannah met while Matt was thru hiking the Appalachian Trail. They are now married and share a love for the outdoors. The conversation starts off with shared experiences at The Endurance Society’s Infinitus races that took place 2 weeks ago in Vermont. The conversation continues with thru hiking adventures and past and future including stories from their honeymoon on the Pacific Crest Trail. Matt’s talks about where he’s from, his training, and his future FKT plans. Hannah tells us about her outings at Tuckfest and plans...
2023-06-191h 12The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastAnyone Know An Arborist?Sean gets hit in the head and seeks an Arborist to tell him he's not at fault. Meghan discusses her love of horror movies. Sean discusses Gleaming the Cube and Dr Giggles. The discussion moves into summer plans, camping in Acadia and trying to fit all of the fun into life. Sean discusses how race lotteries in December start to influence the summer family calendar. And Sean hates dogs and denies his family canine love and companionship.
Outtake song: "Folsom Prison Blues" Johnny Cash
2023-06-051h 00The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastStress!!Sean and Meghan talk STRESS. They discuss how they deal with stress and how stress manifests in their lives. Sean discusses his training as both stress relief and an increased source of stress. Meghan and Sean discuss being introverted or extroverted and its role in stress manifestation and management. Meghan shares a story about how kids can ruin the best laid plans. Digression go into records and concerts and other musical nonsense.
Come see Meghan this week! Meghan will be racing and supporting ZenduranceNow Team Members. Check out https://www.endurancesociety.org/infinitus Come and support or c...
2023-05-211h 05The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastRace Planning and Preparation - where do I start???Sean and Meg sit down to talk about getting to and from races and how to prep and travel. Sean provides an initial race recap of Traprock 50k and intro to the race season. The discussions set out on how to pick and choose crew and pacers and what expectations should be for both support team and racer. Sourcing from personal experiences they go over what works and what hasn’t. They discuss the importance of redundancy and planning for the worst while hoping for the best. Their experience and stories range from 200+ mile trail races, adventure races, bike races, an...
2023-05-071h 26The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastCoach John Harris Talks Life, Injuries, & Mental HealthMeghan and Sean welcome Coach John Harris to the podcast. John is a long time member of the ZenduranceNow crew. He is a Navy Veteran, coach, podcaster, cancer survivor, and all around solid human. We discuss trauma, endurance sports, exercise, and recovery. John delves into how he came into sport and his identity within it and how it is evolving as he is healing.
To connect with John:
www.teamE4E.com and https://www.facebook.com/teamE4E
Outtake song: "Half Drunk Under a Full Moon," The Fratellis
2023-04-241h 39The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastUnder Pressure! Working through Performance AnxietyBefore you start singing Queen and Bowie sit down with Sean and Meghan as they discuss pressure. Speaking from both personal experiences in life, racing, and in professional capacities they walk through some common manifestations of personal anxiety. The delve into how they address issues within themselves and while coaching. As a bonus Meg has Sean do some breathing exercises used to lower anxiety. It might be exciting to the listener as it creates a pseudo ASMR session, or not. Now don’t be confused there is plenty of side tracking and tangential conversations along the way. Kick back an...
2023-04-101h 14The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastGoals and Struggles with the ZenduranceNow CoachesMeghan, Sean, and Sam get together to discuss goals and struggles that they are going through. Amongst the chaos of their typical conversation Sean gets a little punchy but it’s counter balanced by Sam’s zen persona. Meg continues to try to keep the train on the tracks and the discussions to the goals and struggles topic despite Sean’s typical banter. Everyone brings two goals and two struggles to the table to converse over.
Outtake Song: Flogging Molly, "If I Ever Leave This World Alive"
2023-04-031h 29The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastWhat’s it like to be a GREAT Race Director with Vinny CappMeghan and Sean sit down with Vinny Capp from Happily Running https://www.happilyrunning.com They discuss how Sean met Vinny and through his involvement with Laurel Highlands and putting on that race during the pandemic. Vinny has been involved in the race community for many years and we have discussions about how he got into long distance Race Directing and running. Vinny puts on several races and has just recently acquired Virgil Crest from Red Newt racing. Virgil Crest has changed many years and so has the course. We talk a little about the logistics of the race a...
2023-03-061h 38The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastJoin the Coaches Corner with Mindy RandallMeghan and Sean welcome fellow coach Mindy Randall from Forward Motion Run Coaching. Mindy is a fellow endurance junkie and has crossed paths with Meghan over the past 6+ years. Sean and Mindy also discover that they are both training for the Jigger Johnson Ultramarathon in August. Mindy talks about her journey as a mid-pack runner, to veterinary medicine, to coach. She tells us how she coaches her athletes and talks to us about women specific research and endurance sports.
Check Mindy out of social media: https://www.facebook.com/people/Forward-Motion-Run-Coaching/100063541450247/ and https://www.instagram.com/nhclickchick/
2023-02-201h 15The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastWho’s Music is Best? Let the Battle Commence!Meghan, Sean, and Sam each play songs that they love. The group talks about the songs and laughter commences.
Playlist for you to decide for yourself:
APPLE MUSIC: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/zendurancenow-mix-vol-3/pl.u-76oNNdmIdre74
SPOTIFY:https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7JSPcgzBzFNt5YgMBp0fql
Thin Lizzy Cowboy Song
James McMurtry Choctaw Bingo
Rob Zombie What Naughty Cheerleader
Shane Smith and The Saint Fire in the Ocean
Infamous String Dusters Gravity
4 Non Blondes Whats Up
Tu...
2023-02-061h 39The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastCultsMeghan and Sean talk cults. The discussions center around fitness and diet related cults. They talk about their personal experiences with in and around these cults as a layers on the fitness world. Sean discusses some of his dietary changes that were derived from cult like diet systems. Meghan tell some stories of her cultish experiences with yoga. They both address issues that arrive with coach worship and gurus and how they avoid these traps in their coaching.
Outtake Song: "Fire Woman" The Cult
2023-01-231h 36The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastSquirrel! What? Oh yeah . . .Sometimes in the course of a podcast Meghan or Sean will get distracted and veer hard off topic. This episode is really no different. Meg and Sean catch up a little after his vacation. They then go and address some listener submitted questions: recovering from illness and training, how to come back after a long layoff, staying motivated as a back of the pack runner. Meg goes hard after the idea of motivation. A couple of movies are addressed these are their links if you want to watch them. Movie links: Unbreakable: The Western States 100 - https://youtu.be/z...
2023-01-0959 minThe Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastTeam ZenduranceNow ReunitesJoin Coaches Meghan, Sean, and Sam as we talk about everything Grateful Dead, favorite movies, life and it's chaos, how Meghan finds her Zen, and yelling at our athletes (not really.) Sam seems to really enjoy poking Meghan and Sean and making them argue. If you live in Massachusetts and need a good massage therapist Sam is your man https://samfarnsworthlmt.com/
Sam's outtake song: The Waterboys, Fisherman's Blues
2022-12-261h 20The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastRecovery (for real!)Meghan starts with a quote from Cory Reese and his recent book, Stronger than the Dark. In a strange twist Sean is also reading a book, The Brave Athlete: Calm the F**k Down and Rise to the Occasion. We discuss pre-race anxiety and how that feeling manifests in everyday life. After several more digressions the topic of the podcast: Recovery is finally addressed. The conversation then bounces from vacation, cancelling vacations, cruises. Recovery in sport doesn’t have to be laying on the couch and watching Netflix. Recovery manifests in many different ways depending on the person. The con...
2022-12-181h 23The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastMental Health Crisis - emergency episode**trigger warning* We talk about suicide and mental health in this podcast.
We have a different podcast today. I was very shaken by two recent child suicide attempts in my circle. Also, as I signed on to record this podcast with Sean I learned about the recent hate fueled shooting at Club Q in Colorado Springs. And while editing this podcast I learned of another shooting at a Walmart in Chesapeake VA. We are outraged and sad.
I am on the front lines of mental health care and EMS. I am angry and frustrated every day at the lack of men...
2022-11-2842 minThe Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastBikes, But We DigressWhat is this? Sean is a Furry? Sean and Meghan talk about race volunteering and local race communities. Introducing your kids to the crazy world of endurance athletics. Sean volunteered as a trail marshal for Amy Rusiecki’s Mt Tom trail race. Check it out here https://beastcoasttrailrunning.blogspot.com/?m=1
Meg went surfing again and it’s quite possible she recorded this podcast with a concussion that occurred during her morning surf. They discuss together the excitement of picking up a new activity and how bad days with that activity produce desire to get better. As the di...
2022-11-211h 19The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastGrit part 2*Note from Sean: I incorrectly state that NH has no ultras outside of Ghost Train and that Ghost Train was the only NH 100 miler. However, Jigger Johnson 100 miler just announced itself. I am looking forward to hearing more about this.*
Meghan and Sean and revisit grit as suggested by podcast listener after his experiences during his most recent ultramarathon. We begin the discussion with grit through training and preparation. The mental preparation in a race, through training practice and race planning is discussed. Building upon grit in practice; the ideas of repetition and finding your why can define how your me...
2022-11-071h 25The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastSean’s Grindstone 100 mile Report, Winter Surfing, & Race SpecificitySean and Meghan chat about Sean's recent Grindstone 100 mile race and training specificity. Sean gives a solid recap of a great race including race logistics and mishaps. Meghan delves into her new love of winter surfing and why her training isn’t geared towards any specific goal. And as always Sean and Meghan disagree on the meaning of the word "suffering."
Outtake song: "Two 6's Upside Down," Dropkick Murphys
2022-10-241h 23The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastKeep on Swinging with Sarah Keddell & her incredible adventures in Africa, Pakistan, & NepalMeghan and Sean sit down with the infamous Sarah Keddell. Sarah regales them with her tales of life on the trails and worldly adventures. Sarah explains to us her unconventional journey to and through endurance athletics from Army Medic to Massage Therapist. Sarah's most recent adventures include Kilimanjaro and to K2 base camp in Nepal. Sarah describes how these adventures materialized, her training, and where she plans to go to next. She shares with us some words of wisdom on how to properly plan and enjoy experiences as they unfold. If you are interested in seeing Sarah as a...
2022-10-101h 38The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastJohnny Cash is a GODMeg and Sean just chat it up again. They talk for a little bit about getting the kids back to school and last year of the summer trips. Turns out Sean isn’t the biggest fan of camping. Meg got to spend some time without kids in the White Mountains in New Hampshire and worked a bit on her hiking. Sean had a big weekend in the Vermont in the Green Mountains with family before heading to New Hampshire to hit the Pemi Loop with a buddy. He recaps his Pemi loop run and how that all shook out. Se...
2022-09-261h 06The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastCatching Up! Meghan and Sean missed each other!Meghan and Sean have a catch up conversation. It’s been a little bit since Sean and Meg were able to converse. They dive right into old school phone sex and sex worker discussion. Seems pretty normal. Will Meghan run a marathon, will she be able to qualify for Boston? We talk a little about her recovery from her surgery and progressing towards goals going forward. We discuss the importance of building and the consistency required to progress towards healthy goals. About respecting the process of recovery and understanding where she is “right now” vice where she was prior to thi...
2022-09-121h 28The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastHaving a Coach, What is it like? Sara Simmons tells usMeghan and Sean get together and chat with Sara Simmons a long time ZenduranceNow athlete. Sara is coached by Sean and explains how that came about. She also delves into how her perceptions of her abilities has changed while being coached by ZenduranceNow coaches. She explains her past experiences and injury history and how our initial focus was getting her to be able to perform healthy. Sara explains the benefits of coaching as she has experienced them. As a bonus Sara and Meghan reminisce about how their friendship blossomed under the stresses of crewing for Sean during the VT100.
2022-08-291h 16The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastSpecial Guest Dr. Joshua WhiteMeghan and Sean sit down and check in with friend and runner Joshua White. Josh is a ultra runner living in Vermont where he resides as a Chief Medical Officer in a local hospital. Josh discusses with us his practices for homesteading and how he utilizes his land, animals, and provides for his family through hunting, farming, and foraging. Josh explains how and why he chose this lifestyle and how it impacts his family and their daily lives. Discussions as usual breakdown into the bizarre and nonsensical. As the chief medical officer in a hospital we discuss with Josh...
2022-08-151h 27The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastMental Health and Endurance SportsSean and Meghan talk mental health and fitness. This includes: the connection between mind and body and the stigma that exists around mental health and how this is changing as education becomes more prevalent. The importance of empathy and compassion while dealing with mental health is stressed. Meghan and Sean discuss some of their personal experiences dealing with those with mental health problems. They also discuss the impact of COVID on mental health and how exercise can help alleviate many of the issues that arise from mental health problems and ways to incorporate exercise into our daily lives to...
2022-08-011h 29The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastWeird Stories: Seen, Heard, and Experienced While Running Way Too MuchWhen you spend a lot of time outside weird things are bound to occur- right? At least this is what Sean and Meghan are telling themselves. Please join us for our listener submitted stories. We laugh a lot and there's a lot of head shaking. Here's a list of the stories that were told:
John Lennon
Death Race Hallucinations
Sean’s Virgil Crest
Matt’s poop story
Rick Vomit at Infinitus
Fernando Chases a girl
Chest bumps gone aray
Sean goes out too fast again (Bart Yasso sightings)
Meg gets struck by lightning
Sprinklers can be dangerous (sewage)
Whips and mattr...
2022-07-181h 16The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastThe Gang is All Here! Coach Sam Farnsworth is in the house!The whole gang is together for the first time on the podcast! Welcome to Sam Farnsworth the third ZenduranceNow coach. Sam joins us to talk about how he came into the endurance world and how we all came together as a team at ZenduranceNow. Sam explains his metamorphosis through several careers to where he is now. He explains what makes his massage therapy practice different form other therapist. The discussions then digress towards the importance of recovery, proper mobility and strength practice, experiences with raw emotions and gratitude in endurance events, willingness to continue and sharing space and miles...
2022-07-041h 19The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastGetting Old Schooled with Marshall CollinsMarshall Collins (aka Meghan's Dad) the OG of Running
Meghan and Sean sit down with Meghan’s father Marshall Collins on his birthday and talk running from his perspective. He shares with us humbling stories and humor, beating Amby Burfoot only to realize Amby was at a distinct disadvantage, trying to beat legendary Patti Catalano, and unfortunately sharing the same track as Olympic medal winner Rick Wohlhuter. We dive into his thoughts on the Boston Marathon, Meghan as a Cross Country racer, and kids at and in races. He shares with us his thoughts on the sport today and trail and...
2022-06-201h 25The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastCareless Whispers - Trends That We Love And Trends That We HateMeghan and Sean talk about trends in the endurance sports world and life as whole. Some are exciting, some are bothersome. There are some rants and there may be some careless whispers you’ll have to listen to hear.
The trends we discuss during this podcast are:
1) Outdoor Apparel as fashion
2) Training women as women
3) Is the hundred mile distance the new marathon?
4) Speakerphone phone talkers
5) The death of the album
6) Technology and social media in sport
Of course there will be many side bars and digressions, per the usual Meghan and Sean.
2022-06-061h 41The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastWhale Sounds, Chewbacca, & Civil War ReenactmentsTalking about life and shootin’ the sh*t. Meghan catches us up on the status of her recovery from her most recent surgery, how she’s doing, and her feelings about PT and recovery. The discussions dissolve into conversations about recent concerts and Covid. They talk about Meghan’s injury, Sean’s allergies, bomb threats, shooter drills, and the helplessness of it all. They also chat about whale sounds, Chewbacca, and Civil War re-enactments. Conversations wrap up with discussions about biking, bikes, and the irony of Meghan being forced to bike because of the very thing that caused her injury i...
2022-05-301h 33The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastZenduranceNow Mix Tape Vol. 1Music is LIFE!
Meghan and Sean talk about their top 6 current songs. Use this link for ZenduranceNow Apple Music Playlist:
Sean’s corrections:
Linkin Park singer is Chester Bennington
Anthrax and Public Enemy Bring the Noise not Anthrax and Run DMC
The make a wish child was 16 yr old Kenny Sykaluk, and Only the Young was released on Journey’s Warrior Album in 1984
Meghan has no corrections because Sean does the editing and Meghan doesn’t remember that far back. If she said anything in error, let us know and we’ll fix it.
In...
2022-05-161h 24The Break Down, A ZenduranceNow PodcastCompassionate Grit EPISODEMeghan and Sean explore the ins and outs of the consistency required to train for endurance events. There is no magic pill to training, training sometimes requires an athlete to grind it out. Making excuses and turning into a weekend warrior only leads to disappointment and injury. The social mediaziation of endurance athletics isn’t the real story. The real story is the grit involved in the training. The tears and blood shed on the trails are the truths that Meghan and Sean address. Being disciplined is important for the results one is looking for. At times the priorities nee...
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