<p>The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts.<br></p><p><br></p><p>Join the Newsletter at:<a href="https://troymeadows.substack.com/?r=2gjcgs&utm_campaign=pub-share-checklist" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"> ⁠MidPack Musings SubStack⁠</a></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://www.patreon.com/TheMidPackerPod" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">⁠Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠</a></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://runtraillife.com/collections/midpacker-pod-merch" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Check Out MPP Merch </a>Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods.</p><p><br></p><p>Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? </p><p>Check out <a href="https://runtraillife.com/pages/rtl-coaching-services" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Troy’s Coaching Page<br></a></p><p><br></p><p>STOKED TO PARTNER WITH  </p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://janji.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>JANJI</strong></a> </p><p><a href="https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE</strong></a></p><p><a href="https://bearbuttwipes.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>BEAR BUTT WIPES</strong></a> </p><p><br>USE PROMO CODE <strong>MIDPACER</strong> FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT</p><p><br><a href="https://checkout.trainingpeaks.com/product/sca?duration=12&promocode=CYBER2025&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=partner&utm_content=audio&utm_campaign=ds2025_cyber_midpacker_trail" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>TRAINING PEAKS</strong>⁠</a> </p><p>BLACK FRIDAY SALE 25% off Premium!!!! </p><p>Use CYBER25 at Checkout using the link below start your free trial at  <a href="https://checkout.trainingpeaks.com/product/sca?duration=12&promocode=CYBER2025&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=partner&utm_content=audio&utm_campaign=ds2025_cyber_midpacker_trail" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker</a></p><p><br></p><p>“Running became my way to process grief, build community, and explore the edges of what’s possible.”</p><p><br></p><p>In this episode, Jon Eisen joins Troy Meadows to unpack a journey that goes far beyond miles. Jon’s career in tech didn’t prepare him for the kind of grit and self‑discovery he found on the trails, especially when he set his sights on the infamous Barkley Marathons. On the way he picked up ultra finishes at events like Niwot’s Challenge and the Yucca Bar Massacre, embraced navigation‑heavy racing, and turned running into a tool for resilience and community.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Highlights:</strong></p><ul><li><p>How Jon went from programming to pursing ultra adventures—with little thought for convention.</p></li><li><p>What draws him to Barkley‑style races: the unknown, the navigational challenge, the refusal to accept a “normal” race.</p></li><li><p>Key training takeaways: establishing strength, avoiding injury through smart prep, embracing weekly yoga and strength work (yes, even for ultra runners).</p></li><li><p>Motivational nuggets: How showing up matters more than finishing; how joy in running can exist alongside the grind; why community and purpose matter just as much as pace.</p></li><li><p>Practical tips: For runners looking to level up in 2025—whether you’re chasing 50 miles or chasing meaning—you’ll hear what made the difference for Jon.<br></p></li></ul><p><strong>Jon’s  links:</strong></p><ul><li><p><strong>IG: </strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mildly_athletic/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">@mildly_athletic</a></p></li><li><p><strong>IG: </strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/runningwithproblems/#" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">@runningwithproblems</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.runningwithproblems.run/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">“Running With Problems” podcast info</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://joneisen.me/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Jon’s race archive &amp; blog</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://joneisen.me/running/2023/03/19/barkley-marathons-2023-race-report.html" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Jon’s Barkley 2023 race report</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barkley_Marathons" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Barkley Marathons background info</a></p></li></ul><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><strong>Partner Links: </strong><br></p><p><a href="https://janji.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>Janji</strong></a><strong> - </strong><a href="http://janji.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Janji.com</a></p><p>A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it&#39;s gear you can trust. </p><p>Check them out at <a href="http://janji.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">janji.com</a>.</p><p>Use the code <em>MIDPACKER</em> for 10% off your order.</p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>Hyerlyte Liquid Performance</strong></a><strong> - </strong><a href="https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com</a></p><p>Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete.</p><p>More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles.</p><p>Check them out at <a href="https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">hyperlyteliquidperformance.com</a></p><p>Use the code <em>MIDPACKER</em> for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order.</p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://youtu.be/ZZmeB4qub_U?si=BGUk1qTGOB1fWUjr" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">“The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary</a></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>Training Peaks</strong></a> - <a href="https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/</a></p><p>A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  <a href="https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/</a></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://bearbuttwipes.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>Bear Butt Wipes</strong></a> - <a href="http://bearbuttwipes.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Bearbuttwipes.com</a></p><p>Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. </p><p>Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean.</p><p>Check them out at <a href="http://bearbuttwipes.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Bearbuttwipes.com</a></p><p>Use the code <em>MIDPACKER</em> for 10% off your order.</p><p><a href="https://runtraillife.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://runtraillife.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>Run Trail Life</strong>⁠</a> - <a href="https://runtraillife.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://runtraillife.com/</a></p><p>Find Official <strong>MPP Merch</strong> on RTL!!</p><p>Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. </p><p>Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T&#39;s.</p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://freetrail.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">⁠<strong>Freetrail</strong>⁠</a> - <a href="https://freetrail.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://freetrail.com/</a></p><p>Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today.</p><p><br>ultrarunning, Barkley Marathons, Niwot’s Challenge, San Diego 100, navigation race, trail running, strength training, injury prevention, community running, “running with problems”, perseverance<br></p>

The Midpacker Podcast

Freetrail - Hosted by Troy Meadows

#102 Jon Eisen | Navigating Barkley, Finding Your Why, & Bushwhacking Your Way To Your Dreams

NOV 28, 2025112 MIN
The Midpacker Podcast

#102 Jon Eisen | Navigating Barkley, Finding Your Why, & Bushwhacking Your Way To Your Dreams

NOV 28, 2025112 MIN

Description

<p>The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts.<br></p><p><br></p><p>Join the Newsletter at:<a href="https://troymeadows.substack.com/?r=2gjcgs&utm_campaign=pub-share-checklist" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"> ⁠MidPack Musings SubStack⁠</a></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://www.patreon.com/TheMidPackerPod" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">⁠Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠</a></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://runtraillife.com/collections/midpacker-pod-merch" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Check Out MPP Merch </a>Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods.</p><p><br></p><p>Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? </p><p>Check out <a href="https://runtraillife.com/pages/rtl-coaching-services" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Troy’s Coaching Page<br></a></p><p><br></p><p>STOKED TO PARTNER WITH  </p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://janji.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>JANJI</strong></a> </p><p><a href="https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE</strong></a></p><p><a href="https://bearbuttwipes.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>BEAR BUTT WIPES</strong></a> </p><p><br>USE PROMO CODE <strong>MIDPACER</strong> FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT</p><p><br><a href="https://checkout.trainingpeaks.com/product/sca?duration=12&promocode=CYBER2025&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=partner&utm_content=audio&utm_campaign=ds2025_cyber_midpacker_trail" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>TRAINING PEAKS</strong>⁠</a> </p><p>BLACK FRIDAY SALE 25% off Premium!!!! </p><p>Use CYBER25 at Checkout using the link below start your free trial at  <a href="https://checkout.trainingpeaks.com/product/sca?duration=12&promocode=CYBER2025&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=partner&utm_content=audio&utm_campaign=ds2025_cyber_midpacker_trail" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker</a></p><p><br></p><p>“Running became my way to process grief, build community, and explore the edges of what’s possible.”</p><p><br></p><p>In this episode, Jon Eisen joins Troy Meadows to unpack a journey that goes far beyond miles. Jon’s career in tech didn’t prepare him for the kind of grit and self‑discovery he found on the trails, especially when he set his sights on the infamous Barkley Marathons. On the way he picked up ultra finishes at events like Niwot’s Challenge and the Yucca Bar Massacre, embraced navigation‑heavy racing, and turned running into a tool for resilience and community.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Highlights:</strong></p><ul><li><p>How Jon went from programming to pursing ultra adventures—with little thought for convention.</p></li><li><p>What draws him to Barkley‑style races: the unknown, the navigational challenge, the refusal to accept a “normal” race.</p></li><li><p>Key training takeaways: establishing strength, avoiding injury through smart prep, embracing weekly yoga and strength work (yes, even for ultra runners).</p></li><li><p>Motivational nuggets: How showing up matters more than finishing; how joy in running can exist alongside the grind; why community and purpose matter just as much as pace.</p></li><li><p>Practical tips: For runners looking to level up in 2025—whether you’re chasing 50 miles or chasing meaning—you’ll hear what made the difference for Jon.<br></p></li></ul><p><strong>Jon’s  links:</strong></p><ul><li><p><strong>IG: </strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mildly_athletic/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">@mildly_athletic</a></p></li><li><p><strong>IG: </strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/runningwithproblems/#" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">@runningwithproblems</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.runningwithproblems.run/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">“Running With Problems” podcast info</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://joneisen.me/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Jon’s race archive &amp; blog</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://joneisen.me/running/2023/03/19/barkley-marathons-2023-race-report.html" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Jon’s Barkley 2023 race report</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barkley_Marathons" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Barkley Marathons background info</a></p></li></ul><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><strong>Partner Links: </strong><br></p><p><a href="https://janji.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>Janji</strong></a><strong> - </strong><a href="http://janji.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Janji.com</a></p><p>A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it&#39;s gear you can trust. </p><p>Check them out at <a href="http://janji.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">janji.com</a>.</p><p>Use the code <em>MIDPACKER</em> for 10% off your order.</p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>Hyerlyte Liquid Performance</strong></a><strong> - </strong><a href="https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com</a></p><p>Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete.</p><p>More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles.</p><p>Check them out at <a href="https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">hyperlyteliquidperformance.com</a></p><p>Use the code <em>MIDPACKER</em> for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order.</p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://youtu.be/ZZmeB4qub_U?si=BGUk1qTGOB1fWUjr" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">“The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary</a></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>Training Peaks</strong></a> - <a href="https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/</a></p><p>A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  <a href="https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/</a></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://bearbuttwipes.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>Bear Butt Wipes</strong></a> - <a href="http://bearbuttwipes.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Bearbuttwipes.com</a></p><p>Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. </p><p>Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean.</p><p>Check them out at <a href="http://bearbuttwipes.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Bearbuttwipes.com</a></p><p>Use the code <em>MIDPACKER</em> for 10% off your order.</p><p><a href="https://runtraillife.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">⁠</a></p><p><a href="https://runtraillife.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>Run Trail Life</strong>⁠</a> - <a href="https://runtraillife.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://runtraillife.com/</a></p><p>Find Official <strong>MPP Merch</strong> on RTL!!</p><p>Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. </p><p>Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T&#39;s.</p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://freetrail.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">⁠<strong>Freetrail</strong>⁠</a> - <a href="https://freetrail.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://freetrail.com/</a></p><p>Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today.</p><p><br>ultrarunning, Barkley Marathons, Niwot’s Challenge, San Diego 100, navigation race, trail running, strength training, injury prevention, community running, “running with problems”, perseverance<br></p>