Date published: 09/13/2024
Colton Gale, Ultra Runner and Running Coach
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americolt

In this episode of the Nonconformist Innovation Podcast, Steve chats with ultra runner and coach Colton Gale, who shares his incredible journey from lacrosse player to conquering 100-mile races. Colton dives into the highs and lows of ultra running, revealing his secrets to mental toughness, pacing strategies, and how he uses music as his secret weapon on the trail. He also opens up about overcoming injuries, the thrill of crossing the finish line, and his passion for coaching others to reach their potential. Colton’s insights go beyond running, offering life lessons on resilience, problem-solving, and the power of community. With stories of unexpected challenges, like busted shoes and surprise bear encounters, Colton’s enthusiasm and approach to embracing the adventure of ultra running will inspire you to push your own limits—whether on the trail or in everyday life. Tune in for an engaging, fun, and motivational conversation!tions.

Topics discussed:

• Colton’s transition from lacrosse to long-distance running through AmeriCorps
• Colton’s emphasis on the importance of community and camaraderie in running
• The mindset needed to overcome ultra-running challenges
• Colton’s focus on problem-solving and patience as core training philosophies
• How Colton adapted his training to prevent injuries and strengthen his core
• Managing effort and patience during ultra marathons
• Colton’s strategic use of music to enhance race performance
• Reflections on emotions when finishing his debut 100-mile race
• Lessons in patience and problem-solving learned from running
• Colton’s passion for coaching and helping others achieve success
• Handling gear issues and wildlife encounters during training runs
• Colton’s aspirations to compete in more 100-mile races and the Western States 100
• Balancing competitive drive with the enjoyment of running
• Innovations in running gear and Colton’s favorite shoe brands
• Colton’s advice on transitioning from shorter races to ultra-marathons

About Colton

Colton Gale is an accomplished ultra runner and high-performance athlete known for his tenacity, mental toughness, and dedication to pushing boundaries in the world of endurance sports. With a passion for long-distance challenges, Colton’s journey into ultra running began as a quest for personal growth and a way to test his physical and mental limits. Despite early setbacks, including a DNF (Did Not Finish) in his first attempt at a 50-miler, Colton’s relentless commitment to improvement saw him bounce back stronger, culminating in his impressive debut at the Oregon Cascades 100. Beyond the trails, Colton draws on his ultra running experiences to inform his approach to business, life, and personal development, championing resilience, discipline, and a growth mindset. When he’s not racing or training, Colton enjoys sharing the lessons learned from the trails with a broader audience, inspiring others to embrace challenges, chase big goals, and find strength in adversity.

This episode is sponsored by Identient. Identient empowers businesses to innovate, modernize, and execute enterprise IAM initiatives and programs effectively. Visit Identient.com to learn more.

Colton Gale on IG: @americolt Website: https://www.coltongale.com

Oregon Cascades 100: IG @alpine.running Website: https://www.alpinerunning.co/cascades100

Photograph: Mark Stockamp IG @markstockampphotography Website: https://www.markstockampphotography.com

Bear Butt Wipes: IG @BearButtWipes Website: https://bearbuttwipes.com

FootZone: IG @footzonebend Website: https://www.footzonebend.com

Production, Editing, and Sound Design: Brad Parsons