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From the first moment Abby Bennett stepped onto the technical, demanding trails of the White Mountains, she knew she'd found her calling – despite having no competitive running background whatsoever. Now, as one of the Northeast's strongest mountain runners, she shares the remarkable journey that's taken her from financial services burnout to mountain race podiums.

What makes someone believe they can reach the pinnacle of a sport they started as an adult? Abby's answer is refreshingly straightforward: an almost "delusional" belief in her future self, coupled with relentless daily consistency. The results are undeniable – multiple podium finishes at the White Mountain Endurance Cup series and a growing reputation in the technical mountain running community.

This conversation dives deep into the reality of training through brutal Northeast winters, where deep cold and minimal daylight create resilient athletes capable of handling any terrain. We explore her ventures into ski mountaineering, her time as an isolated mountain hut caretaker, and the mental challenges of her current injury-induced training pause.

Perhaps most compelling is Abby's perspective on growth potential. Despite her rapid rise, she estimates she's only reached 40% of her ceiling – a testament to her long-term vision of where consistent training might take her over the next decade. For anyone who started their athletic journey later in life, her story offers both inspiration and practical insights into building sustainable success.

Whether you're fascinated by the Northeast's technical racing scene, curious about the mental aspects of injury recovery, or simply drawn to stories of unconventional athletic paths, this conversation will challenge your assumptions about what's possible when unwavering belief meets consistent effort.

Follow Abby on IG - @abby.j.bennett

Follow James on IG - @jameslauriello

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This episode was brought to you by Ultimate Direction USA. Use code steepstuffpod for 25% off your next order on ultimatedirection.com