Canyon Woodward's Unconventional Path | Learning by Doing, Community Organizing, & Humanity's Interdependence

Canyon Woodward is pro trail runner for Patagonia from Franklin, NC. Canyon has proven himself to be among the most consistent long-course athletes in America, finishing top five at three golden ticket races in a six-month timespan: Javelina Jundred (3rd), Black Canyon 100k (4th), and Canyons 100k (5th). Carrying a lot of fitness and competitive momentum, Canyon will be a factor at Western States later this month -- a goal he's been chasing for several years.

But Canyon is much more than just a talented runner. He's made his career working in politics and community organizing where he's fought for his values in the public domain – things like rural communities, environmentalism, and conservation, which we discuss at length in the episode.

Also part of our conversation is Canyon's recently signing with Patagonia – the iconic outdoor brand that takes a leadership role in the industry and globally around the things that Canyon cares about – the collision of his running career and his career as an environmentalist and activist coming together is an exciting new partnership. This is his first appearance on the podcast.

Topics:

– Canyon's fascinating childhood and ppbringing

– His education and discovering his knack for community organizing

– Getting into politics and running a 100% positive campaign

– the political power of rural communities

– Of course we explore the origins of his running prowess

– the value of learning by doing

– Consistency and Success in Racing

– Navigating Sponsorships and The new Partnership with Patagonia

– Preparing for Western States

– The Pacer Debate in Ultra Running

– Goals for Western States

– And a lot more

Manifesto: The Mad Farmer Liberation Front -- The poem recited at the end of the episode