When it comes to ultrarunning, Dean Karnazes is a name that echoes across mountain trails, desert flats, and urban streets alike. Over the years, he’s carved out an extraordinary legacy with feats like running 50 marathons in 50 days across 50 states, winning an ESPY, and racing through some of the harshest terrains on Earth. But as I sat down with him for an episode of the Free Outside podcast, I found out that his story is about much more than finishing times and accolades—it's about curiosity, resilience, and finding joy in the simple act of putting one foot in front of the other.
Here’s a glimpse into our conversation, where we talked about everything from getting run over by a (fictional) bus on Jimmy Kimmel to plotting audacious adventures, the evolving world of ultrarunning, and what it really takes to live a life of passion and adventure.
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The Wild Start: Running Into the Night
Dean’s introduction to ultrarunning wasn’t planned—it was a spur-of-the-moment decision that changed his life forever. On his 30th birthday, Dean decided to run after one too many drinks at the bar. No gear, no plan—just him and the night. Thirty miles later, a new passion was born.
“The spirit of adventure got into me and never let go,” Dean told me, laughing at the memory. “I knew then that I wanted to see just how far I could push myself.”
His first race? A 50-miler outside Sacramento, where he showed up in board shorts, armed with candy bars, and utterly unprepared. He not only finished but also crossed paths with two ultrarunners who were training for the Western States 100. Their casual mention of the iconic 100-miler planted a seed that would grow into a lifelong pursuit of seemingly impossible goals.
The Art of Running, Playfully
Throughout his career, Dean has approached running with a sense of play. Whether he’s tackling stage races in the Sahara, running marathons at the South Pole, or dreaming up epic challenges like running from the Dead Sea (the lowest point on Earth) to the summit of Mount Everest (the highest), his adventures always have an element of curiosity and fun.
“I try to approach running like a child,” Dean said. “It’s not just about competing—it’s about exploring, experimenting, and seeing what’s possible.”
One of his most ambitious ideas—running from the Dead Sea to Everest—has been stymied by geopolitics and logistics. The most direct route would take him through Iraq and Iran, which isn’t exactly feasible right now. But as with most of Dean’s wild schemes, it’s not off the table. “It’s still in the works,” he assured me.
Stage Races, Chicken Soup, and the Spirit of Adventure
Stage races, where runners complete multi-day events, are another area where Dean has left his mark. While wildly popular internationally, these races have yet to catch on in the U.S. to the same extent. Dean thinks it’s only a matter of time.
“In stage races, it’s not just about running,” he said. “You’re managing recovery, nutrition, and even group dynamics if you’re sharing a tent with others. It’s a whole new level of challenge—and fun.”
Dean recounted some of his early adventures with a mix of humor and humility. During one 50-miler, he discovered the life-saving magic of chicken noodle soup at an aid station. “I thought I was going to puke just looking at it, but the volunteer insisted. It brought me back to life. From then on, every aid station was about chicken soup,” he laughed.
The Evolution of Trail Running
Trail running has exploded in popularity, but Dean has a unique perspective on its growth. He’s seen races like Leadville become massive events with thousands of participants and even larger crews. While he acknowledges that commercialization can have its downsides, he believes the growth of the sport is ultimately a good thing.
“There’s still so much room for trail running to grow,” he said. “Most people I talk to have no idea that ultrarunning even exists. The more people we get out on trails, the better—it makes us all more connected to the environment and each other.”
Dean also sees a bright future for small, community-driven races. While marquee events like UTMB and Western States get the spotlight, he believes grassroots races will continue to thrive because they offer something unique: a sense of intimacy and adventure that’s hard to replicate.
Writing His Story
Dean’s storytelling is as compelling as his running. His first book, Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner, wasn’t just a personal milestone—it was a cultural moment. The book introduced millions to the world of ultrarunning and inspired countless runners to lace up their shoes and hit the trails.
“I never thought it would resonate the way it did,” Dean admitted. “I just wanted to share my experiences. Writing a book was like running an ultra—it was a challenge I wanted to tackle head-on.”
That book’s success catapulted him into the public eye, and while Dean is still learning to navigate the fame, he cherishes the connections it’s brought him. “I’ve met so many incredible people through running,” he said. “It’s been a blessing.”
Advice for Aspiring Adventurers
For those looking to carve out a life in running or adventure, Dean’s advice is simple: Go for it.
“You don’t want to look back and regret not trying,” he said. “Even if you fail, at least you’ll know.”
He also emphasized the importance of authenticity. “Be true to yourself. Partner with brands you believe in, tell your story honestly, and don’t be afraid to promote yourself—it’s part of the game. But stay humble and listen more than you talk.”
The Legacy of a Legend
Dean Karnazes’ story is one of curiosity, resilience, and the joy of adventure. Whether he’s running through deserts, across frozen landscapes, or alongside the waves on a Greek island, his love for exploration shines through. He’s not just a runner—he’s a storyteller, an adventurer, and a reminder that the best journeys start with a single step.
As we wrapped up our conversation, Dean left me with a thought that sums up his philosophy: “The biggest regrets in life aren’t the things you try and fail at—they’re the things you never try.”
Here’s to embracing adventure, chasing big dreams, and always taking that first step—even if it’s off a barstool and into the night.
Listen Now: Hear the full conversation with Dean Karnazes on the Free Outside podcast, where we dive deeper into his adventures, challenges, and the mindset that keeps him going.