From the outside, Tim Tollefson appeared to have everything as a runner. He was a collegiate steeplechase champion, a 2-time US Olympic Marathon Trials qualifier, and is one of the country’s most accomplished ultra runners. He podiumed at UTMB in both his 100K and 100 mile debuts, and went on to win the Javelina Jundred, Lavaredo Ultra Trail 120K, and the Ultra Trail Australia 100K.

But appearances can be deceiving, and a focus on appearances can be devastating. Tim suffered from body dysmorphia and its accompanying OCD for two decades. As he relates in “What Goes Unsaid,” a film project he participated in last year for World Mental Health Day, “I’ve spent a lifetime hating myself for what I’m not, instead of being thankful for what I am.” Now, largely through his involvement with the running community, he’s come to appreciate running for the gift that it is.

This episode is part of the Road to CIM podcast series, for runners participating in the race next weekend, there’s extra advice for you!

For complete show notes and links, visit our website at runningforreal.com/episode378.

Thank you to Precision Fuel & Hydration, AG1, and Allbirds for sponsoring this episode.

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Allbirds looks at everything through a sustainability lens; it’s at the core of who they are as a company and the products they create. Their performance running shoe, the Tree Flyer, is lightweight, super springy, and wildly comfortable, and they’re Tina’s go-to running shoes. The Tree Dasher is not only a running shoe, it’s perfect for daily wear. You might also want to check out the Plant Pacers, made from plant leather.

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