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“Sometimes the trail strips everything away—and that’s the gift.”
In this special episode of the MidPacker Pod, the script gets flipped. Host Troy Meadows hands over the mic to his new friend Jon Eisen, the host of the Running with Problems Podcast who guides Troy through a deep and personal look at his year—both on the trail and beyond it.
From the emotional depths of the Dark Divide 100miler to the lessons of coaching and fatherhood, Troy opens up about failure, identity, and why doing hard things matters so much. The conversation goes beyond splits and mileage—this is about finding clarity in the pain cave, understanding when to pull back, and learning when to lean in harder.
Troy shares how the brutal terrain of the Dark Divide wasn’t just a race—it was a reflection of the internal work he’s been doing to grow as an athlete, coach, and human.
In this episode:
The mental and physical crucible that is the Dark Divide
How failure became a launchpad for deeper personal growth
The evolving identity of a coach and runner learning to slow down and listen
Why building community and connection off the trail matters just as much
Reflections on parenting, purpose, and progress
If you’re looking for something that will challenge you—inside and out—check out Dark Divide 100K.
Relevant Links
Partner Links:
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's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com.
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Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com
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“The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary
Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/
A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/
Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com
Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option.
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Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/
Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!!
Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase.
Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's.
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Troy Meadows, John Eisen, Dark Divide 100K, ultra running, coaching, vulnerability, trail running, emotional growth, personal development, failure, redemption, endurance racing, fatherhood