In this episode of The Adventure Jogger Podcast, Valan Kornhaus shares her journey from a reluctant high school runner to an ultra runner, navigating the challenges of military life, motherhood, and mental health. She opens up about returning to running after childbirth, battling postpartum depression, and finding solace on the trails. Valan’s story highlights the power of resilience, the importance of community, and the mental strength required to overcome injuries, DNFs, and self-doubt. The conversation also explores her passion for coaching, the impact of relocation on mental well-being, and her future aspirations in both running and mental health counseling.

Follow Valan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valanrunslife/

Takeaways

• Valan’s love-hate relationship with running began in high school.
• The military gave her structure.
• FOMO from missing a relay race pulled her back into the sport.
• Pregnancy and postpartum depression challenged her physically and mentally.
• Her first trail run was both terrifying and transformative.
• She battled injuries and setbacks during her first 50K.
• COVID pushed her to build a virtual running community.
• Moving to Colorado opened new doors in her running journey.
• GI issues and race-day anxiety tested her resilience.
• Running became more about connection than competition.
• She ran 54 miles on a torn labrum, proving her grit.
• Mental health struggles shaped her approach to training.
• DNFs became lessons in perseverance rather than failures.
• She aspires to become a certified coach and mentor others.
• The mental game is just as crucial as physical endurance.
• Strength training is key to longevity in the sport.

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Valen's Journey

03:12 – From High School to Ultra Running

06:07 – The Military Influence on Running

08:47 – The Return to Running After Parenthood

12:09 – Challenges of Pregnancy and Running

14:57 – The Impact of Postpartum on Running

17:53 – Trail Running Adventures Begin

21:12 – The Bell Ringer 50K Experience

23:58 – Navigating COVID and Virtual Races

26:52 – Building a Running Community

30:09 – Mental Health and Running

32:55 – Moving to Colorado and New Beginnings

34:59 – Navigating Mental Health and Running Challenges

38:04 – The Journey to 100 Miles: Trials and Tribulations

43:46 – Rehabilitation and Recovery: Overcoming Injuries

46:39 – Relocation and New Beginnings: Running in Colorado

52:24 – Facing Setbacks: The DNF Experience

01:00:15 – Mental Resilience in Ultra Running

01:06:50 – Future Aspirations: Balancing Life and Running

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