In this solo episode of the Free Outside Podcast, I break down my full race plan for the 2025 Cocodona 250, the massive 250-mile ultra across Arizona. I walk you through how I’m approaching the unusually cold weather, the new technical course changes, and the long stretches without pacers. I explain why I’m planning to go out more aggressively this year, how I’m dialing in my carbs, salt, and hydration, and where I’ll rely on my crew and pacers the most. I share my split predictions, the key sections I’m watching for, and some honest reflections on how far I’ve come as a runner and a podcaster. Whether you’re following Cocodona or just curious about what it takes to line up for something this big, this episode gives you an inside look at my mindset and strategy heading into race week.

Chapters

00:00 Cocadona 250 Race Strategy

03:09 Course Navigation and Aid Stations

05:55 Pacing and Nutrition Strategy

09:07 Self-Sufficiency and Crew Dynamics

11:57 Reflections on Podcasting and Growth

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On today’s episode of the Free Outside Show, I’m joined by runner, ultimate frisbee enthusiast, and Cocodona crewing expert Allison Mercer. We relive wild stories from the inaugural Cocodona 250 — from cactus naps and glass-covered descents to heckling runners mid-race. We talk predictions for this year’s showdown, the “Courtney effect,” and whether European pros will shift the ultra scene. We debate mind games, pacing strategies, why volunteering matters, and why Cocodona is basically ultrarunning’s March Madness.

Follow Allison online: https://www.instagram.com/onewomandanceparty

Follow our sponsors: Janji, Garage Grown Gear

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Allison Mercer and Cocodona

02:50 The Inaugural Cocodona Experience

06:08 Crew Dynamics and Race Strategy

08:46 The Evolution of Cocodona and Its Popularity

11:59 The Role of Volunteers in Ultra Running

14:58 Pacing and the Emotional Journey

17:58 The Impact of Weather on Race Performance

20:56 The Influence of Social Media and Celebrity Runners

23:50 The Future of Cocodona and Its Competitors

27:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

46:08 The Evolving Landscape of Ultra Running

52:39 Courtney's Dominance and the Competitive Field

56:58 Mindset and Strategy in Ultra Racing

01:01:55 The Future of Cocodona and Race Dynamics

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

On this wild episode of the Free Outside Podcast, we talk with filmmaker Derrick Lytle and into everything Cocodona 250 — from race predictions and course changes to the strength-versus-speed debate heating up in the ultra scene. But first? We take on the internet’s most absurd hypothetical: could 100 men beat a silverback gorilla? (Spoiler: probably not.) We trade predictions on Courtney Dauwalter, Ryan Sandes, Mike McKnight, and more while roasting obstacle racers, dissecting mud strategies, and dreaming up the ultimate post-race media blitz. Expect hot takes, cold-weather prep, and plenty of laughs in this pre-race breakdown of one of the most exciting 200-milers of the year.

Check out Derrick's Youtube Channel: @TheJuniperLab

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Light Banter

03:00 The Gorilla Debate: Humans vs. Nature

06:01 Cocodona 250: Anticipation and Excitement

08:53 The Impact of the Courtney Effect

12:03 Women in Ultra Running: Breaking Barriers

15:07 Course Changes and Challenges in Cocodona

18:01 Weather and Its Influence on Performance

21:01 The Evolution of Ultra Running Competitors

23:57 CrossFit vs. High Rocks: A Lighthearted Comparison

25:25 Transitioning from CrossFit to Endurance Sports

26:26 Mike McKnight's Preparation for Cocodona

29:11 The Debate on Strength Training for Runners

30:25 DJ Fox: The Obstacle Course Racer's Edge

31:47 Predictions for Cocodona 250

33:27 Weather and Logistics Impacting Race Performance

35:51 The Competitive Landscape of Cocodona 250

38:10 Emerging Athletes and Dark Horses

40:06 Nutrition Strategies for Ultra Runners

42:23 Broadcasting Challenges at Cocodona 250

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