Setting a New FKT on the Appalachian Trail with Tara Dower

This podcast episode interviews ultra-runner Tara Dower about her record-breaking Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the Appalachian Trail. The interview begins with an introduction to Dower's accomplishments and then delves into her journey, including a previous failed attempt due to anxiety and her subsequent strategies for managing it. Dower describes her training, support team (including a friend who hand-fed her), and the challenges faced during the run, highlighting the importance of foot care and the unexpected joy she experienced. The interview concludes with details about her fundraising efforts and the positive impact of the trail community. A key takeaway is Dower's emphasis on joy and positive motivation as drivers of success, contrasting with the "no pain, no gain" mentality.