William Goodge: The Atypical Ultra-Runner Who Ran Across America In Style
Oct 30, 2023
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In this engaging conversation, ultra-runner William Goodge shares his remarkable journey of running across America in just 55 days. Known for his unique approach and stylish persona, he reflects on the motivations behind his feats, notably his commitment to cancer research in honor of his late mother. Goodge discusses the transformative power of running through grief, his unconventional training methods, and the mental challenges faced during ultra events. With charisma and candidness, he breaks stereotypes and inspires others to push their limits.
Building a strong foundation of strength training and gradually increasing running mileage is crucial for success in endurance running.
Incorporating moments of levity, such as a daily 'beer mile,' is important for maintaining morale during challenging endeavors.
Endurance running has the power to transform individuals, pushing them to discover new limits, build self-confidence, and find purpose.
Taking action and stepping out of one's comfort zone is essential for personal growth and achieving extraordinary feats.
Important relationships and a supportive network play a crucial role in fueling ambitions and shaping mindset.
Deep dives
Running across the US: A Mental and Physical Challenge
The podcast episode discusses the speaker's experience running across the United States, covering over 3,000 miles in 55 days. The speaker reflects on the mental and physical challenges faced during the run, highlighting the importance of having a supportive team, relying on strength training to enhance durability, and incorporating moments of levity, such as the daily 'beer mile,' to maintain morale. The speaker also emphasizes the role of self-confidence and pushing perceived limits to achieve extraordinary feats. Overall, the episode explores the transformative power of endurance running and the personal growth that accompanies such endeavors.
Training and Preparation for the Transcontinental Run
In preparation for the run across the US, the speaker focused on building a solid foundation of strength training and gradually increasing running mileage. The training included three gym sessions per week, incorporating single-leg exercises and core training. Despite relatively lower mileage compared to elite runners, the speaker's increased self-confidence and trust in the crew contributed to successfully completing the endeavor. The episode highlights the importance of balancing physical training with mental well-being and finding moments of normalcy during the challenging journey.
The Significance of Disconnecting and Celebrating Milestones
Throughout the run across the US, the speaker highlights the significance of moments of disconnect and celebration. The inclusion of a daily 'beer mile' served as a mental reset and a way to celebrate each day's accomplishments. This break from the physical and mental exertion allowed for both the speaker and the crew to gain a sense of normalcy and enjoyment amidst the challenging endeavor. The incorporation of these lighter moments contributed to overall morale and well-being.
Pushing Perceived Limits and Reflecting on Growth
The podcast episode emphasizes the speaker's drive to push perceived limits and achieve extraordinary feats. The experiences of running across the UK and the US showcased the speaker's journey of personal growth and self-discovery. The episode highlights the transformation that takes place when individuals challenge themselves physically and mentally, and the lessons learned from embracing discomfort, building self-confidence, and finding resilience. Ultimately, the episode unveils the power of endurance running in creating significant personal breakthroughs.
The Power of Taking Action
The speaker encourages listeners to stop procrastinating and just start pursuing their goals. Taking action and booking that first marathon or challenging yourself in new ways is essential to personal growth.
The Influence of Others
The speaker acknowledges the impact of important relationships, specifically highlighting the role of Robbie Ballinger in their life. Robbie's constant support and encouragement have shaped the speaker's mindset and fueled their ambitions.
Embracing New Challenges
The speaker emphasizes the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone and embracing new challenges. They express excitement about tackling upcoming ultramarathons and exploring different parts of the world through running.
Challenging limits and discovering purpose
The speaker reflects on their experience of running across America and highlights the importance of pushing oneself to discover new limits and find purpose. They discuss how heightened emotions can be channeled into positive energy and the transformative power of embracing challenges. The speaker also emphasizes the need to enjoy the present moment and not take tomorrow for granted.
Inspiring others and the importance of mindset
The speaker discusses the responsibility to inspire others and the impact of mindset in all areas of life. They talk about the tenacity and resilience developed through physical challenges and how it translates into facing other difficulties. The speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking diverse experiences and not becoming overly attached to accomplishments. They express a desire to continue pushing boundaries and explore new opportunities while maintaining a sense of balance and enjoyment in life.
Many have attempted the brutal 3,000+ mile transcontinental run across the U.S. Few have completed it. And even fewer have crushed it with the style and swagger of today’s guest William Goodge, who ran from Los Angeles to New York in a blazing 55 days and somehow made it look fun.
His endurance resume also includes running 50 marathons in 50 days, circumnavigating Lake Cuomo, Italy, and running from Land’s End to John O’Groats—all to raise funds for cancer research in honor of his mother.
What I find most compelling about Will isn’t just his athletic accomplishments and the mission behind them. It’s that he’s actively defying the archetype of how ultrarunners should look and behave with an infectious energy and unique style that is completely his own.
A former model sporting a muscled physique uncommon among endurance athletes, Will much prefers Paris Fashion Week and high tea at Claridge’s to camping. He’s keen to share his skincare routine with you and isn’t afraid to rock a Prada man purse. He cuts a different pose and has positioned himself as a powerful example to others who live outside the ultra bubble as to what’s possible in terms of manifesting potential.
Today we dive into Will’s journey, motivations, big achievements, and lessons learned from running across the states—including the ins and outs of the controversy that swirled around his transcontinental run. We also discuss his close friendship with podcast alum Robbie Balenger, the importance of diversifying the ultra-running community, and the magic that happens when you redefine your possible.
Will is an absolute delight.
I loved getting to know him—and I know you will too.
