098: The Mindset You NEED for Ultra Running | Growth vs Fixed, Mental Toughness & Belief

About this episode

Liz Myers and Christie Brinker discuss the importance of mindset in ultra running, emphasizing mental strength over physical fitness and exploring growth versus fixed mindsets.

In this special Coaches Corner episode on the Tribe of Runners podcast, Liz Myers is joined by fellow coach Christie Brinker for an honest, practical conversation about mindset and ultra running. Together, we break down why mental strength often matters more than physical fitness once things get hard. We explore the difference between growth and fixed mindsets, the role of delusional self-belief in pushing beyond perceived limits, and how affirmations and mantras can help runners stay grounded when pain shows up. Discussing the reality that pain is inevitable in ultras, but suffering is often a choice shaped by mindset and presence. The episode also touches on treadmill training as a mental tool, the importance of accountability in coaching, and how to set goals that challenge athletes without setting them up for burnout. Throughout the conversation, they reflect on why mindset has become such a powerful (and sometimes misunderstood) topic in the running space. This Coaches Corner episode is for runners who want to better understand their mind, train with intention, and show up stronger when it matters most. Find Christie Brinker on IG: @ cbrink_ Find my Personal IG: @…

People in this episode

Host: Liz Myers

Guest: Christie Brinker

Topics covered

• mindset
• ultra running
• mental toughness
• growth mindset
• fixed mindset
• pain management
• coaching

Keywords

• ultra running
• mental strength
• growth mindset
• fixed mindset
• pain
• coaching
• affirmations
• mantras

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Tribe of Runners, Instagram

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