115: The Rise of the King of Moab with Max Jolliffe
Apr 7, 2025
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Max Jolliffe, an ultra runner who recently conquered the Moab 240, shares his incredible journey from battling addiction to finding purpose in ultra running. He discusses the intense training required for such grueling races and the mental fortitude needed to push through moments of self-doubt. Max emphasizes the power of community support and small wins in overcoming challenges. He also reflects on the transformative nature of embracing risks and the profound impact of running on his personal growth and resilience.
Max Jolliffe's journey from addiction to ultra running showcases the transformative power of discovering a passionate and purposeful pursuit.
The importance of mental resilience and a strong support system helped Max overcome physical pain and self-doubt during the Moab 240.
Max's unconventional rise in ultra running highlights that dedication, hard work, and community connections can lead to remarkable personal achievements.
Deep dives
The Transformation through Running
Max Joliffe shares his inspiring journey from struggling with addiction to discovering his passion for running. Initially out of shape due to injuries and an unhealthy lifestyle, he was encouraged by a friend to embrace fitness, which sparked his interest in endurance athletics. He transitioned from workouts on a stair climber to running outside, where he fell in love with the challenge of distance running. This newfound passion led to significant personal transformation, as he dedicated himself to setting and achieving running goals, ultimately leading him to compete in ultra marathons.
Facing Adversity in the Moab 240
During the Moab 240, Joliffe experienced moments of severe physical pain and doubt, particularly at critical aid stations where he questioned his ability to continue. Despite feeling exhausted and far behind, he found motivation through mental resilience and the support of inspirational messages from his crew. By focusing on mental strength and determinedly pushing through the pain, he managed to turn his situation around and performed exceptionally well in the final miles of the race. This shift in mindset ultimately led him to win the race after seeming well behind at various points.
The Impact of Preparation and Mental Fortitude
Joliffe emphasizes the critical role of mental preparation alongside physical training for ultra running, highlighting that overcoming adversity is crucial for success. He faced significant challenges, such as leg cramps and mental breakdowns during races, which forced him to develop coping strategies to maintain focus and determination. The mantra of continuously moving forward served as a grounding principle, allowing him to manage pain and keep going during tough moments in races. His belief that pain is temporary and manageable propelled him through the most difficult sections of his competitions.
The Journey to Becoming an Elite Runner
Max Joliffe's rise in ultra running is unconventional, as he only began running in his late twenties and quickly progressed to competing successfully in ultra marathons. He dedicated a year to rigorous training specifically for Moab, employing strategic race choices to prepare for the event and learning from each experience. His competitive spirit propelled him to perform well even against seasoned ultra runners who have trained for years, demonstrating that success can stem from sheer determination and hard work. Joliffe's experience showcases that breaking through barriers is possible with dedication, regardless of past struggles.
Building a Strong Community and Support System
Joliffe expresses the importance of surrounding himself with a supportive community, both during his struggles with addiction and in his running career. He attributes significant personal growth to connections made with people who have similar goals and values, which has positively influenced his journey. As he collaborates with fellow athletes during events like the BPN Athlete Week, the motivation and shared passion elevate his performance and drive for success. His story underscores how fostering a strong network can be instrumental in overcoming personal and athletic challenges.
The King of Moab is here. In this episode, we sit down with Max Jolliffe, an ultra runner who recently claimed victory at the Moab 240.
Max opens up about his journey from struggling with addiction to finding purpose and success in ultra running. We get into his training regimen, the psychological and physical challenges of ultra-running, and the life-changing decisions that have shaped his path and the relentless pursuit of personal growth.
CHAPTERS:
00:44 Discussing the Moab 240 Film
01:42 Overcoming Adversity During the Race
05:47 The Final Push to Victory
13:35 Max's Running Journey
18:29 The Power of Small Wins
25:17 Struggles with Addiction and Getting Sober
33:02 The Importance of Community and Support
43:38 Getting into Running: A Life-Changing Decision
