Kate Pallardy joins the Free Outside Podcast to talk about longevity in ultrarunning, balancing motherhood with elite racing, and how her mindset has evolved over the years. From 100-mile podiums to navigating the chaos of parenting and training, Kate shares how she’s learned to stay present, resilient, and grounded—even when everything feels out of control.

We dive into:

-The reality of training with toddlers and unpredictability

-How mindset work and self-awareness changed her racing

-What she learned from big DNFs—and big wins

-Recovery, sleep, and why less can be more

-And her unique approach to nutrition and fueling

This one’s honest, inspiring, and packed with hard-earned wisdom from one of the most thoughtful voices in the sport.

Follow Kate online:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katepallardy

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuOTtH5LZojo8uZ-hmuosCg

Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com

Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside

Buy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSF

Email me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.com

Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside

Website: www.Freeoutside.com

Instagram: thefreeoutside

facebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kate Palardy

03:05 The Unique Challenge of 100-Mile Races

05:54 Pacing and Shared Experiences in Ultra Running

08:56 Transitioning from Triathlons to Ultra Running

11:51 The Joy of Simplicity in Ultra Running

15:00 Training Differences: Marathons vs. 100-Mile Races

17:56 Life Hacks for Running with Kids

20:54 How Family Life Influences Training

23:57 The Journey to Becoming a Pro Triathlete

27:02 The Process of Earning a Pro Card

33:40 The Evolution of Triathlon

35:02 Rediscovering the Joy of Racing

36:57 Family Dynamics and Racing

40:22 Balancing Family and Athletic Goals

43:33 The Journey of Motherhood and Running

51:06 A Life-Changing 27-Mile Run

59:34 Finding Purpose in Running