Racing (and winning) after Kids with Kate Pallardy

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