In S5Ep2 of the PRP, Adam jibber jabbers with decorated ultra endurance athlete, esteemed Co-Race Director of the Huron 100, erratic spreadsheet wizard and unwavering community support debonair Jay Vanderhovel, who has been preparing for the inaugural running of the Arizona Monster 300 on Friday April 11th, 2025. Jerri Morgan, blossoming long distance runner, energetic adventurer, and Jay’s ride-or-die endurance crony joins the show to offer her take on all things ultra crewing, pocket burgers, and of course, the magic of friendship in the middle of nowhere.
Tune in to learn how what began as a simple quest to shed some pounds and outrun his own limits quickly evolved into something with a deeper purpose and unexpected meaning for Jay. It’s been a winding journey where missteps have became mentors, victories have become sweeter when shared, all leading to the realization that the true finish line was never a buckle - but the quiet, steady magic of showing up for others along the way. Through every wrong turn, DNF, scrape, chafe and rough patch, Jay has learned that adventure endurance is about way more than just getting to a finish line - it’s about who you become in the process.
Things get vulnerable when both Jay & Jerri reflect on the unique mindset needed to start 200+ mile adventure, the importance of embracing problem-solving instead of worrying, and how they've both discovered lasting purpose through the teamwork-oriented culture that defines these grueling and absurd ultra-endurance events. Whether it's crewing, running, or event coordination, it’s clear these two have both tapped into the wonder of lifting others up whilst in pursuit of wild dreams of their own.
What exactly is relentless forward progress?! Mark Twain said what!? Hmmm, parallel bears you say?? Ummm did Jay just say needles IN THE WEBS OF HIS TOES?! Rowdiest code brown story in PRP history? Wait wait wait, how many nanners has Jay eaten? Pay Days, pee that burns and teamwork masterclasses oh my!
This and more than you’re likely interested in hearing about in this chaotic, inspiring & high-stoke episode of the PRP!
Sponsors
Ann Arbor Running Company
Recorded Saturday March 29th @ 1:00PM EST