Ready or Not: Overcoming Unwanted and Untimely Challenges (Lessons from a 100-Mile Race)   In this episode of the Everyday Grit Podcast, host Nathan Hicks shares valuable lessons learned from his recent experience running a 100-mile trail race. He discusses the importance of setting goals, accepting reality, and maintaining a positive narrative despite unexpected challenges. Nathan also highlights the significance of having a supportive crew and using internal and external resources to overcome obstacles. Drawing parallels with broader life experiences, he emphasizes the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and the mental shift from 'if' to 'how.' The episode also includes listener feedback and emphasizes the role of critical thinking and perseverance in everyday life.   00:00 Introduction and Initial Concerns 01:09 Reflecting on Past Races 02:11 Podcast Welcome and Listener Feedback 04:30 Training and Preparation Challenges 17:48 Mental Strategies for Overcoming Challenges 22:30 Race Day: Early Challenges and Mental Battles 25:35 Facing Unexpected Challenges 25:58 Dealing with Fatigue and Weariness 27:35 Mental Hurdles and Emotional Overflow 30:13 Strategies for Overcoming Challenges 35:10 The Importance of Support Systems 40:30 Navigating Solo Stretches 49:08 Final Reflections and Takeaways *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning at https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning and drop Nathan a line if you are interested. Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there. *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.    

The road less traveled, with Russ Taylor...exploring a life of service, adventure, and faith.   In this episode of everyday Grit, host Nathan Hicks sits down with Russ Taylor to discuss his remarkable journey of living a life filled with adventure, service, and faith. They delve into Russ's experiences from their seminary days and early friendship, touching on memorable trips and impactful moments. Russ shares his upbringing as an adopted child, the loss of both parents at a young age, and how these events shaped his path. They explore Russ's diverse career, spanning positions from banking to the Peace Corps in Papua New Guinea, working for Outward Bound with adjudicated youth, and various roles in the National Park Service. Russ talks about his love for travel and photography, detailing unique experiences with cultures around the world, including reindeer herders in Siberia and remote villages in Laos. Throughout, Russ reflects on the importance of faith, humility, and being true to oneself in every endeavor. 00:00 Getting Started: The Awkward Beginnings 00:52 Reconnecting with an Old Friend 01:23 Memories of Seminary and Adventures 05:17 Life on the Road Less Traveled 05:56 Early Life and Family Background 09:53 College and Career Beginnings 10:52 The Life-Changing Road Trip 14:00 Joining the Peace Corps 21:32 Transitioning to Outdoor Adventures 23:42 Working with Adjudicated Youth 32:20 Transition from STEP Program to Seminary 33:18 Journey of Faith and Seminary Decision 37:04 Scouting and Wilderness Connection 40:05 Missionary Work in India 45:27 Return to the US and Career Transitions 48:32 Life in Denali National Park 51:41 Passion for Photography 01:00:40 Reflections on Life Choices and Relationships 01:07:23 Final Thoughts and Encouragement   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning at https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning and drop Nathan a line if you are interested. Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there. *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.  

Navigating Opportunities and Staying True to Yourself   In this episode of the Everyday Grit Podcast, hosted by Nathan Hicks, the focus is on the Running Man Festival, an event created by entrepreneur Jesse Itzler. Nathan dives into his personal experience of connecting Jesse's team with the perfect venue, Kingston Downs, for the festival. Despite successfully facilitating this connection, Nathan reflects on not hearing back regarding his initial collaboration intentions. He explores three key lessons from this experience: staying true to oneself, recognizing and honoring the value others bring, and favoring open opportunities over trying to force closed ones. The episode encourages listeners to contribute their thoughts and experiences related to these lessons. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:08 What is the Running Man Festival? 02:06 Listener Feedback and Reviews 03:32 The Story of Connecting with Jesse Itzler 21:38 Lessons Learned from the Experience 36:33 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events     *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning at https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning and drop Nathan a line if you are interested. Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there. *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.  

Lessons from the Mid-State Mile: Embracing Challenges and Self-Reflection   Host Nathan Hicks reflects on his experience participating in the Mid-State Mile, a challenging trail race with a 1.1 mile loop and 340 feet of elevation gain and loss per loop.    He discusses the importance of goal setting, the traps to avoid when facing hard tasks, and balancing various life responsibilities.   Nathan underscores the significance of individual experiences over mere knowledge, the futility of comparison, and the value of enduring hardship as part of personal growth. Listener feedback and reviews are encouraged to make the podcast better. 00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts 01:52 Reflecting on Mid-State Mile Experience 02:21 Podcast Introduction and Listener Feedback 04:49 Explaining Mid-State Mile 07:38 Race Day Preparations and Challenges 16:39 Three Traps of Facing Hardships 30:32 The Value of Voluntary Hardship 32:54 Recap of the Three Traps 33:30 Why I Quit Running 39:58 Balancing Life and Goals 45:03 The Comparison Trap 50:42 Final Reflections and Takeaways 59:49 Closing Thoughts and Listener Engagement   For more information on Mid State Mile and other BMFJ events follow @midstatemile or visit events.com   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning at https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning and drop Nathan a line if you are interested. Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there. *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.        

Enduring the Reckoning: Reflections on Overcoming Adversity   In this engaging episode, participants reflect on a rigorous outdoor adventure called 'The Reckoning,' involving a challenging hike with varied terrain and adverse weather conditions. The conversation covers their experiences, individual challenges, moments of growth, and teamwork dynamics. The script highlights the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and mutual support in overcoming physical and mental hardships. Participants also share the lessons learned and insights that can be applied to broader aspects of life.   00:00 Introduction and Initial Reflections 01:09 Team Performance and Challenges 02:43 Individual Experiences and Struggles 04:38 Overcoming Mental and Physical Hurdles 06:58 Group Dynamics and Support 08:49 Weather and Environmental Impact 11:19 Final Thoughts and Reflections 26:32 Reflecting on the River Crossing 27:47 Humbled by Nature's Challenges 29:54 Pushing Through Physical and Mental Barriers 32:47 Dealing with Self-Doubt and Expectations 34:08 The Importance of Teamwork and Preparation 37:34 Lessons Learned and Personal Growth 46:44 Voluntary Challenges vs. Obligatory Tasks 54:13 Final Reflections and Takeaways   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning at https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning and drop Nathan a line if you are interested. Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there. *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.    

In this episode of the Everyday Grit Podcast, host Nathan Hicks discusses how doubt crept in during a stressful period as he explores the nature of doubt in faith. Nathan examines the biblical story of Thomas' doubt post-resurrection, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging doubt, maintaining relationships, and holding on to hope. Through introspection and conversation with others, Nathan shares practical steps for confronting and understanding doubt, encouraging listeners to remain open to belief and God's presence.   Listen as Nathan makes a case for the importance of acknowledging and confronting doubt in matters of faith. Sharing important insights from the story of Thomas, Nathan makes the case that expressing doubt is confessional, relational, and hopeful. What do you think? 00:00 Introduction and Personal Story 04:24 The Nature of Doubt 04:35 Podcast Introduction and Listener Feedback 06:10 Reflecting on Personal Experiences 12:59 Understanding Doubt Through Scripture 18:05 Lessons from Thomas' Doubt 31:56 Practical Steps to Address Doubt 38:43 Conclusion and Call to Action   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning. See https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning for more details and drop Nathan a line if you are interested.   Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com   Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there. *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.  

Understanding the Growth Zone: A Framework for Personal Development In this episode, host Nathan Hicks shares a compelling story from his experience leading a challenging backpacking course focused on personal development. He discusses the concept of the 'Growth Zone Model,' using three concentric circles to define the Comfort Zone, Growth Zone, and Panic Zone. He provides practical insights on how to self-assess and navigate these zones, enhancing personal growth.  Nathan also encourages listeners to apply this model to help others, understanding how to support people in different zones.    00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 00:09 The Struggle of the Group 03:00 The Growth Zone Model 03:22 Podcast Introduction and Listener Feedback 07:06 Recognizing Opportunities for Growth 10:51 Understanding the Comfort Zone 16:19 Exploring the Growth Zone 22:30 Critique of Alternative Growth Models 25:46 Understanding the Panic Zone 29:31 Applying the Model to Self 32:59 Exploring Comfort, Growth, and Panic Zones 38:57 Using the Model to Help Others 45:33 Final Thoughts and Challenges 47:12 Conclusion and Call to Action   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning. See https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning for more details and drop Nathan a line if you are interested.   Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com   Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there. *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.  

Conquering Life and Trail: Tara Dower's Journey and Mental Resilience In this episode of the Everyday Grit podcast, host Nathan Hicks interviews Tara Dower, who recently set the fastest known time (FKT) for completing the Appalachian Trail. Tara's record-breaking journey covers 2,200 miles in 40 days, 18 hours, and 6 minutes, surpassing the previous record by over 13 hours. The conversation delves into Tara’s mental and emotional resilience, her struggle with anxiety, and how she overcame obstacles from her first failed attempt in 2017 to her triumphant return in 2019. Tara also shares insights into her life as a professional athlete, her training routines, and how she manages pressure and anxiety. Furthermore, Tara introduces her new podcast, 'DNF Diaries,' where she shares light-hearted yet inspirational stories of endurance. This episode provides a holistic view of Tara's remarkable achievements and the mental fortitude required to conquer such immense challenges. Thanks for listening. Carry on.   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning. See https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning for more details and drop Nathan a line if you are interested.   Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there. *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.  

Welcome to the Everyday Grit Podcast with Nathan Hicks In episode 018, Nathan discusses the power of everyday resolutions and shares a framework that can quickly be used to provide clarity, structure, and purpose to each day. Give it a listen and put it to work. Carry on.   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning. See https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning for more details and drop Nathan a line if you are interested.   Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there.   *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.

Welcome to the Everyday Grit Podcast with Nathan Hicks In episode 017, Nathan shares thoughts and reflections about his experience with grief before and since the passing of his father two months ago. Listen and glean powerful insights on walking through difficult times purposefully and intentionally. Carry on.   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning. See https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning for more details and drop Nathan a line if you are interested.   Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there.   *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.

Welcome to the Everyday Grit Podcast with Nathan Hicks Episode 016 is a conversation with Jimmy and Hollye Smith about their journey of enduring a hard thing together. Listen as they share their story of dreaming big, working hard, and being open to what the journey would teach them. Hollye and Jimmy are down-to-earth people who do a wonderful job of articulating the nuances of their experience over 10 months as they set out to prepare for and overcome a worthy challenge. Listen as they share insights they gained along the way, I promise you'll be glad you did. Carry on.   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning. See https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning for more details and drop Nathan a line if you are interested.   Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there.   *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.

Welcome to the Everyday Grit Podcast with Nathan Hicks Episode 015 is a conversation with Jon Cox about the steadfast, 10-year pursuit of his goal to run 100 miles. We discuss motivation, failure, determination, identity, and more, in a way that relates to everyday life, too. Listen as Jon shares his journey and what he's learned along the way, I promise you'll be glad you did. Carry on.   @jonruns_ @midstatemile   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning. See https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning for more details and drop Nathan a line if you are interested.   Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there.   *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.

Welcome to the Everyday Grit Podcast with Nathan Hicks Episode 014 explores insights and observations from the Georgia Jewel 100 Trail Ultra, including the power of viewing growth through the lens of answering questions. Listen to hear practical tips on how to prepare for, work through, and overcome big challenges in life.   Carry on.   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning. See https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning for more details and drop Nathan a line if you are interested.   Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there.   *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.

Welcome to the Everyday Grit Podcast with Nathan Hicks Episode 013 explores the idea of borrowing confidence from others. Listen to hear how this practice can help give you the boost you need to do things that challenge and stretch you while growing more confident in yourself along the way. Then consider how you can lend confidence to people around you.  Carry on.   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning. See https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning for more details and drop Nathan a line if you are interested.   Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there.   *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.

Welcome to the Everyday Grit Podcast with Nathan Hicks Episode 012 explores the reality of perseverance in our lives, its origin, and the different ways we see it play out around us. Listen to gain a framework of perseverance that will equip you to better endure hard times. Carry on.   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning. See https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning for more details and drop Nathan a line if you are interested.   Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there.   *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.

Welcome to the Everyday Grit Podcast with Nathan Hicks Episode 011 shares a heartwarming story from Nathan's AT thru-hike and practical tips for how to better encourage people around you. Give it a listen. Carry on.   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning. See https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning for more details and drop Nathan a line if you are interested.   Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there.   *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.

Welcome to the Everyday Grit Podcast with Nathan Hicks Episode 010 offers three important reflections from the most recent installment of The Reckoning, which took place last weekend in the mountains of north Georgia. Listen and be encouraged by these reminders that will help you face adversity and endure the everyday. Carry on.   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning. See https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning for more details and drop Nathan a line if you are interested.   Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there.   *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.

Welcome to the Everyday Grit Podcast with Nathan Hicks Episode 009 discusses the importance of our self-narrative and provides 5 steps to help create an accurate narrative in the face of adversity. Give it a listen and silence the inner critic. Carry on.   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning. See https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning for more details and drop Nathan a line if you are interested.   Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there.   *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.

Welcome to the Everyday Grit Podcast with Nathan Hicks Episode 008 outlines 4 essential considerations that should be included in any plan for the new year. Regardless of how you plan to achieve growth and accomplish your goals this year, these essentials will help. Give it a listen. Carry on.   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning. See https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning for more details and drop Nathan a line if you are interested.   Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there.   *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.

Welcome to the Everyday Grit Podcast with Nathan Hicks Episode 007 is a conversation with Nathan's dad about his process of coming to terms with the disease, ALS, and how he endures each day. It's packed with hard-earned wisdom and perspective. Give it a listen. Carry on.   *Interested in joining Nathan for an "in-person" adventure?  Check out The Reckoning, coming this November. See https://mailchi.mp/e2693f53419b/the-reckoning for more details.   Join the conversation by emailing Nathan at everydaygritpodcast@gmail.com Follow along on IG: @njhix and @everydaygritpodcast And, follow @hghrgrnd to stay informed about opportunities there.   *Music by Jupiter Coyote. Used with permission.