Aaron Jenson | Cancer Conqueror

In this episode, Aaron Jensen shares his journey from being overweight and diagnosed with high blood pressure to becoming an ultra runner. He talks about his transition to ultra running, including his first 50-mile race and his progression to running 100-milers. Aaron also discusses his experience surviving colon cancer and how it impacted his running. He shares insights into training and fueling with a colostomy bag and the mindset shift he went through during his recovery. In this conversation, Aaron Jensen shares his journey as a cancer conqueror and ultra runner. He discusses how he fought against cancer and conquered it, leading to a new way of life. Aaron shares insights he gained from his experience, including increased empathy, listening to his body, and prioritizing family. He also talks about finding purpose in inspiring others and the importance of turning struggles into opportunities. Aaron shares his goals of qualifying for the Western States 100 and returning to Leadville for redemption. He discusses the gear he uses, including handhelds and Hoka shoes. Aaron highlights the people who inspire him and invites others to reach out to him for support and conversation. He shares his social media handles and encourages those going through similar experiences to know that they can still live a fulfilling life. The conversation concludes with gratitude and hope for the future.   Takeaways

• Transitioning from hiking to ultra running can be a gradual process, with hiking providing a solid foundation for endurance and strength.
• Hiking can be a valuable training tool for ultra running, as it allows for low heart rate exercise and builds strength for steep terrain.
• Having a positive mindset and finding motivation can help overcome challenges and setbacks, such as a cancer diagnosis.
• Running with a colostomy bag is possible, and with proper preparation and supplies, it does not have to limit performance or participation in races.

Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:55 Getting into Running 03:00 Transition to Ultra Running 06:26 Running the Buffalo Run and Squaw Peak 50 08:08 Running the Wasatch 100 10:09 Training and Hiking 12:22 Antelope Island Races 13:47 Running Multiple Distances 16:18 Running After Cancer Diagnosis 21:21 Denial and Acceptance of Cancer 25:20 Recovery and Training After Surgery 28:00 Mindset Shift and Motivation 34:52 Fueling and Running with a Colostomy Bag 37:44 Managing the Colostomy Bag During Races 39:03 Cancer Conqueror 41:14 Insights from Conquering Cancer 43:11 Finding Purpose 46:22 Goals: Western States 100 and Leadville 49:11 Gear: Handhelds and Hoka Shoes 53:18 Inspiring People 54:45 Shoutouts and Social Media 58:06 Closing Remarks