Episode

44. Failing Better: How to Learn From a DNF

Podcast
Unstoppable Ultra Runner
Published
Feb 11, 2026
Duration seconds
1135
Processing state
not_requested
Canonical source
https://www.susanidonnelly.com/podcast/failing-better-learn-from-dnf
Audio
https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/61832232-a1a4-4761-abc6-48b347094dbe.mp3
JSON
/v1/public/podcasts/unstoppable-ultra-runner-7312953/episodes/44-failing-better-how-to-learn-from-a-dnf
Markdown
/podcast/unstoppable-ultra-runner-7312953/44-failing-better-how-to-learn-from-a-dnf.md

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Summary

In ultra running, failure is part of the sport. If you stay in this long enough, you will experience it. The real question is not whether you will fail, but whether failure will stop you or make you stronger. In this episode, I talk about why DNFs and missed goals feel so threatening, and how fear of failure quietly shapes the races you choose, and most importantly, how to fail better. Failing better is not about avoiding DNFs. It is about learning deeply from them so you race smarter, build real confidence, and keep improving over decades. For full show notes, transcript PDF, and more information, visit https://www.susanidonnelly.com/44 Connect with Susan: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanidonnelly Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanidonnelly Mentioned in this episode: Introducing: 1:1 Mental Mastery Coaching for Ultrarunners My 1:1 Mental Mastery Coaching for Ultrarunners is a six-month coaching program where we build the mental skills experienced ultrarunners use to handle difficult races well. If you’re ready to stop repeating the same mental patterns in your races and start developing the mindset that lets your training show up when it matters most, I’d love to talk with you. Schedule a free consultation call with me here: unstoppable-ultra-runner.captivate.fm/book-a-call Click here to book your free consult call!