There's a common misconception in ultra running that it's all about toughness, but Shea Aquilano believes gentleness is more important. Shea currently resides in Boulder, CO and focuses on ultra-distance trail events. At 24, she is a 2x US Mountain Running team member, and pro runner for Nike ACG. Shea loves a good pickle and has a knack for rationalizing almost any experience into a good one. Jon chats with Shea about: setting intentional pre-race goals and success definitions pursuing longer trail running distances over shorter formats moving to Colorado for mountain training opportunities joining supportive running communities and trail teams maintaining joy as central motivation in competitive running Stay connected: Follow Shea: https://www.instagram.com/shea_aq/ The Trail Team: https://www.trail-team.com/ This is episode is supported by: AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at https://us.amazfit.com/discount/FTLR2026 and use code “FTLR2026” for 10% off Precision Dial your fueling in this year. Use code “LONGRUN26” for 15% off your first order at www.precisionhydration.com