#147 | From Failure to Triple Crown Champion | Kilian Korth on Mental Toughness & Never Quitting
Choose StrongShow Notes
In this episode, Sally talks with Triple Crown champion, Kilian Korth, who shares the remarkable journey that shaped him—from childhood endurance adventures and collegiate swimming to devastating setbacks, career uncertainty, and becoming one of the world's best 200-mile ultrarunners. Together, Sally and Kilian dive deep into resilience, failure, identity, and why the greatest breakthroughs often come from embracing discomfort, letting go of control, and refusing to quit. Enjoy!
Other Episode Highlights: How Kilian's childhood adventures and competitive swimming shaped the mindset he races with today. The solo backpacking trip that changed his life and led him to ultrarunning. Why getting kicked off his college swim team became one of the best things that ever happened to him. Behind-the-scenes stories from Cocodona 250, including racing through a torn tendon. The difference between quitting and failing—and why failure is essential for growth. Why letting go of control can make you stronger in running and in life. The Stoic principles Kilian uses to stay calm when everything goes wrong. Why the best ultrarunners aren't always the most talented—they're the ones who can suffer the longest. Why your toughest days reveal who you really are. An honest conversation about social media, criticism, and staying true to yourself.
Follow Kilian: Substack: @runtoughmindset IG: @kiliankorth
Watch his documentary, Forged in Failure, on August 1 @ 6pm MST: https://www.youtube.com/@UltrAspireHydration/featured
Want Kilian as your coach? Check here if he has spots available: https://www.theeverydayultra.com/
All links, discounts, and ways to support the podcast are here. Sally McRae Strength App Choose Strong Book Choose Strong Podcast YouTube Sally McRae YouTube Choose Strong Merch Choose Strong Strava Group
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