182. Dylan Walker | Into the Mountains, Beyond the Limits: A Runner’s Awakening

Dylan Walker joins host Francesco Puppi for an honest and inspiring conversation about what it really takes to transform your life through running — from starting at 240 lbs with no plan or fitness, to completing ultras, crossing the Alps in the Transalpine Run, and preparing for his first 100-mile race.

They dive into the realities behind long-term progress: coping with pain when it shows up in every race, training for mountain events while living at sea level, and why community and support matter more than split times.

Dylan also reflects on the deeper lessons the sport has taught him — discipline, resilience, patience, and the courage to sign up for challenges that feel far beyond your comfort zone.

If you’ve ever doubted whether you can take on a big goal, start from zero, or rebuild yourself through running, this conversation will stay with you for a long time.

What you’ll learn

• The mindset that helps runners manage pain in long races

• Why the trail community creates such powerful connections

• How to train for elevation without mountains

• What it feels like to complete the Transalpine Run

• Why anyone — with time and structure — can aim for big challenges

• Dylan’s next goal: a 100-mile race crossing an entire continent

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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Francesco’s links:

Instagram | X | Strava | Website