Episode 63: Walking Into a New Life – How a 100+ Pound Transformation Led to Ultra Endurance Success with Lisa Decker

In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with ultra-endurance athlete Lisa Decker, whose story is a powerful blend of resilience, transformation, and the relentless pursuit of hard things. Lisa didn’t come from a traditional running background—yet she discovered the world of ultra running through community, curiosity, and a willingness to push herself beyond her comfort zone. What followed is a decade-long journey that includes a 120-pound weight-loss transformation, countless ultras, and the life-changing experience of completing the legendary Vol State 500K across Tennessee.

We dive deep into what motivates someone to walk 314 miles in the July heat, how finding the right community can unlock new levels of confidence, and why endurance challenges often lead to profound personal growth. This episode is packed with insight about mental toughness, identity shifts, overcoming self-doubt, and discovering what you’re really capable of when you take that first step—literally.

If you’re searching for inspiration, endurance storytelling, personal transformation, or insights about long-distance running and mindset, this episode delivers.

⏱️ Timeline Highlights

[2:15] – Lisa’s early life in California, her outdoors-focused upbringing, and how nature shaped her love of adventure.
[6:40] – Discovering the trail and ultra running community through Team RWB and why it instantly felt like “home.”
[14:30] – How she balances 10-hour pharmacy shifts with ultra training, and why walking ultras became her key to success.
[17:45] – The unexpected moment on the Vol State ferry that led to forming a five-person pack and transforming the entire race experience.
[23:10] – Kind strangers, roadside hospitality, skunk encounters, and what surprised her most during the 500K journey run.
[28:40] – Doing ultras while overweight, finishing last, and why showing up anyway built the foundation for her transformation.
[36:50] – The mental battle of “head trash,” the power of community support, and why being honest about struggles matters.
[49:00] – Future adventure goals, including walking the Caminos in Europe and exploring the world on foot.
[58:30] – How endurance sports shifted her personal identity, career goals, and even her vision for where she wants to live next.

🔗 Links & Resources

Featured Organizations & Topics

💬 Final Thoughts

If this conversation inspired you or helped you rethink what’s possible for your own life, please rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. Every bit of support helps new listeners discover these stories—and it keeps the adventure going.

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Episode 62: From Ultras to FKT’s to Ocean Crossings: You Won’t Believe What Mike Wardian’s Doing Next!


What happens when you stop waiting for permission and start chasing wild, audacious goals? That’s exactly what we unpack in this powerhouse episode with Mike Wardian—elite endurance athlete, record-setting runner, and all-around inspiration. From running across the United States to setting a fastest known time (FKT) on the Appalachian Trail for his age group, Mike shares the mindset behind tackling the unimaginable.

But this conversation goes beyond races and records. Mike opens up about what fuels his drive, how he builds resilience through repetition, and how he balances his career, family, and love for adventure. Whether you’re prepping for your first 10K or dreaming of rowing solo across the Atlantic (yep, that’s on his calendar too), there’s something here for everyone chasing big goals.

🔥 What You’ll Learn

  • How Mike plans his insane endurance calendar using a Post-it Note system

  • The real story behind his Appalachian Trail record attempt — injuries, storms, and mental toughness

  • Why he’s trading trails for water in 2027: rowing across the Atlantic solo

  • How to push through when motivation runs dry — the power of micro-goals

  • Mike’s approach to family, business, and adventure life balance

  • What he’s learned about humanity and resilience from running thousands of miles

🏆 Featured Moments

[1:04] – Mike’s “goal list” strategy for setting and sticking to ambitious challenges
[4:58] – What is the Taco Bell 50K and the Full Ham Triathlon? (Hint: They’re tougher than they sound)
[6:55] – Why Mike’s next adventure is rowing solo across the Atlantic Ocean
[9:02] – The difference between saying yes to challenges and actively seeking them out
[15:45] – Why the Appalachian Trail holds a special place in Mike’s heart
[23:10] – Trail injuries, vegan nutrition, and how Mike fueled himself with 10,000 calories a day
[32:45] – How Mike balances a full-time career and family life while pursuing ultra-endurance feats
[39:01] – The truth about running across America—traffic, kindness, loneliness, and everything in between
[45:40] – Why 100 burpees a day became a key part of Mike’s training routine

🧠 Listener Takeaways

  • Your biggest goals are within reach if you break them into daily reps

  • You don’t need to quit your job to live an adventurous life

  • Embrace the beginner’s mindset — it’s where the magic starts

  • There’s no substitute for consistency and curiosity

  • “Run toward the thing you’re afraid of — it’s probably where the growth is.”

📌 Links & Resources

  • Follow Mike Wardian on Instagram: @mikewardian

  • Learn more about Mike’s gear and sponsors: Teva, Bakline

  • Check out upcoming grassroots races like the Taco Bell 50K via Mike’s socials

👏 Connect with Us

Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for full episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and more conversations just like this. You can find us on YouTube by searching On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self — and don’t forget to hit the bell so you never miss a new drop.

If this episode inspired you, please follow, rate, and review the podcast on your favorite platform. It helps us grow and reach more everyday adventurers like you. And hey—share it with a friend who’s chasing their own wild goals.

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Episode 24: Stories Rather Than Regrets with Pete Ripmaster


Welcome back to the On Adventure podcast! In today’s episode, we have an inspiring and candid conversation with Pete Ripmaster. Pete, now a seasoned ultra-endurance athlete, shares his journey from the highs and lows of his athletic pursuits to his personal battles and triumphs. In fact, it all started with a Couch-to-Marathon run, and he kept going from there!  We delve into his history, including the incredible feat of winning the 1,000-mile Iditarod Trail Invitational on foot (in February!), his adventures in Alaska, and the lessons learned from pushing beyond the limits. Pete’s story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams.

Pete’s philosophy of “stories rather than regrets” is evident in his approach to ultra-running. Whether he’s tackling organized races or his unique “homemade 100’s,” Pete’s willingness to suffer and push through mental and physical barriers is key to his success. His adventures showcase the power of perseverance and the rewards of stepping outside your comfort zone.

Join us as we explore:

  • Pete’s early life and the pivotal moments that shaped his path
  • The transition from the couch to a marathoner to an ultra-endurance runner
  • The mental and physical challenges of running the Iditarod Trail Invitational
  • Pete’s “homemade 100’s” and what drives him to create his own ultra-endurance challenges
  • Insights into the world of ultra-running and the community around it
  • Pete’s future aspirations and what drives him to keep pushing forward

This episode is packed with raw and heartfelt reflections that will leave you inspired to tackle your own adventures. Don’t miss out on this incredible journey with Pete Ripmaster!

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Introduction to Pete Ripmaster and the essence of today’s episode

[02:28] Pete’s background and his self-identity as a runner, husband, and father

[10:00] Reflections on Pete’s childhood and the significant impact of his family

[18:00] The pivotal moment and the transition from a wild lifestyle to purposeful living

[24:05] Pete’s first impromptu marathon and the beginning of his running journey

[32:00] The decision to run 50 marathons in 50 states and raise funds for breast cancer research

[38:00] Delving into ultra-running: from 50K to 1,000 miles

[46:00] The challenges and triumphs of the Iditarod Trail Invitational

[53:00] Pete’s “homemade 100’s” and his drive to create unique endurance challenges

[57:00] The mental game in ultra-endurance sports and pushing through limits

[01:03:00] What’s next for Pete after ultra-running

Links & Resources:

Thank you for tuning into this episode with Pete Ripmaster! If you enjoyed our conversation, please rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to light. Keep pursuing your great adventures, and we’ll catch you in the next episode!

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