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Getting After It
This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a relentless pursuit of growth, grit, and getting after life on your own terms.
Every week, we break down what it takes to push limits, embrace discomfort, and turn ambition into action. This is where wisdom meets execution—because knowledge alone doesn’t cut it. You have to apply, refine, and outwork your own self-doubt to see real results.
We bring on guests from all walks of life—entrepreneurs, athletes, creatives, adventurers—people who have battled through resistance and come out stronger. Their stories aren’t just inspiring; they’re roadmaps for anyone looking to level up.
The mission? To fuel your fire, challenge your thinking, and equip you with the mindset and tools to chase down your biggest goals.
This is Getting After It—not just a podcast, but a movement for those who refuse to settle.
Getting After It
136 - Tyler Cole (DJ Take2) - Your Race, Your Pace
In this episode, I sit down with DJ and endurance athlete Tyler — known as DJ Take 2 — for one of the most grounded and real conversations I’ve had in a while. We explore the beauty of starting small, pushing our limits, and realizing that most of the barriers we face are self-made.
Tyler shares stories from his winding journey as a DJ, his first triathlon podium finish, and the lessons learned from showing up to races where he felt like an outsider.
We dive deep into what it means to embrace the process — whether it’s standing behind the decks at a wedding, training for an ultra, or hitting mile 31 with nothing left but willpower and gratitude.
This one’s for anyone who’s ever doubted their potential. It’s a reminder that the most fulfilling paths often begin with nothing more than a scared yes — and that with patience, discipline, and a touch of humor, we can go further than we thought possible.
Key takeaways:
- Why taking imperfect action often matters more than being “ready.”
- How endurance sports can teach you to embrace discomfort and find your edge.
- The surprising power of gratitude when things get hard.
- Why patience and humility will take you further than raw talent ever could.
- How leaning on community can keep you moving when you want to quit.
Follow DJ Take2 on Instagram
Book him for your next event on his website.
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I hope today’s episode sparked something within you to pursue your dreams and unlock your true potential. If you found value in it, consider sharing it with someone who might need that same push.
Getting After It is for those who. want to silence their self-doubt. Refuse to be owned by comfort. Understand their limits are man-made and breakable. We live in a time of constant comparison. Social media drowns us in highlight reels and overnight success stories. But what most people don’t see is the grit behind it all. The reps. The quiet mornings. The sacrifices. The failures.
You are just getting started.
Keep Getting After It.
This is super rare, because nine times out of ten, or like 9.5 times out of ten, I never get to see my couples after I DJ for them, like on their way. I never get to see them ever again. So this is great it was.
Speaker 2:Yeah, that night was probably honestly one of the best nights of my life, and I mean the reason being the music fueled the dance party and I can't tell you how many times people are just like. That was honestly one of the most fun parties I went to. Yes, the icing on the cake.
Speaker 1:That's the way we want it.
Speaker 2:Dude, it was amazing. You're a talented DJ. And my favorite story about that is when I came up and I was like you got to introduce my mom as as the business bitch and you're like, are you sure, like, really like I don't know about that? And, um, yeah, she loved it. But yeah, man, no, it's cool, I mean yeah, I appreciate you coming on and and chatting, it's uh thanks for having me, man.
Speaker 2:Oh yeah, I'm excited but yeah, I mean your real name is tyler, but I know you as dj take two. So yes, um yeah, curious where you got that name.
Speaker 1:I kind of want to kick it off with that oh man, um, long story, I'll spare you all the details. But I had a different DJ name before this, um, before take two, and um, when I wanted to get on the radio, um, there was another guy with like the same name, different spelling type of thing, um, and I thought I could get on, but the program director at the time was like there's no way I'm letting you on the radio with that name. So this was my second take at a DJ name. So it was just, it ended up being take two and I continue.
Speaker 2:It's a. It's funny how things happen and like they just stick. But no, I love that. That's awesome man. So you, you started doing a radio show. You were on the radio first I was.
Speaker 1:I was an intern at the radio station and then, um, after an internship, I was able to hop on the radio and be with a couple different people. I just dj'd. There were different people that like talked and hosted and things like that, but I dj'd and got a chance to do it for, oh gosh, I don't know, that was like the start of my career. I want to say at least four or five years or so on the radio.
Speaker 2:It was really good that's a nice little run yeah, I mean so is that always like what you wanted to do, like just, you've had a love for music and just wanted to see what you can do in that route?
Speaker 1:No, Really Okay. It really wasn't. I wish I had one of those cool stories where it was like music was always just I really don't. I wanted to be a football player so bad and I went to college to play football and it just didn't work out that way and when I stopped playing football, I I literally I was like I need something to do. I was kind of the locker room DJ and I played music for a bunch of my friends my older brother was a DJ like music was always around, but that's not something that I really wanted to do. So when I stopped playing football, I was just like I need something to do and one of the guys, um, and the football team was like you should, you should DJ at like one of the clubs that we have out here. I was in Kansas, I was in middle of nowhere, kansas and the guy was like that's crazy.
Speaker 1:It was. It was insane. It was like a country bar. Nine times out of 10, like six days out of the week. It was country bar, but on Saturdays they were like we can play anything and I wanted to DJ. On Saturday. I was like cool, I'll play anything. And it was all the football guys that were like you have to DJ for us so we can like party. So that's what it ended up being Like. I bought my first piece of equipment like that same year and then I was just like, all right, I'm just going to try this DJ thing. So I started playing music and it just turned into something.
Speaker 2:No, I love that man. I mean, I think it's like there's so many things that happen in life where it's like little opportunities, like that you know where you, you start and try something and it leads to a whole you know career down the road. Like who knows, um, if you didn't take the DJ route, who knows what you'd be doing now, like maybe, maybe still radio, but um, I mean, I like I think you know you're probably doing something you you enjoy and I I've seen you you DJ, like the diamondbacks games now, and I think I correct me if I'm wrong but the suns too, if I'm I'm not mistaken I've dj'd a couple events for the suns and stuff.
Speaker 1:They've had a bunch of changes in in management and everything, so uh, not too much anymore. But yeah, I've done a couple events for the suns, uh, the cardinals as well, um, in alumni program, but yeah, mainly for the Diamondbacks now.
Speaker 2:Yeah, that's cool man. Well, yeah, I know I sent you a couple of questions over just before we began recording and that kind of stuff. But one thing that I know is something a lot of people struggle with, myself included. I would love to, you know, take getting after and make it a business. Business, and my wife and I were actually working to do that a little bit. We're trying to rebrand um some of the things and and create some content together, but um, you're doing it.
Speaker 2:trying man, yeah, but like it's, it's a scary leap to uh to try and, and one, put yourself out there. But then, two, like you, started a, a business where you DJ weddings and other events and, um, I'm sure that was scary and I don't know if you had kids at the time. But uh, maybe just walk me through what you know, your thought process during the time, some of the feelings you had and and and how you did it, because I think that's one of the biggest areas that people can get after it is you know, I'm going to take a chance on myself. I'm going to take a chance on myself.
Speaker 1:I'm going to see if I can do this and and see what doors it opens up. Yeah, I mean, I think it's. It's always a risk and you're always like, is this the right decision? And you know, am I moving in the right direction or am I just like doing something stupid, right? So it's always challenging and I think it's I don't know for anybody out there that's like, should I do this, should I take a risk? Even you, it's. It's never 100%, I think. Even still to this day, I'm always like am I doing the right thing? Am I in the right field? Am I, you know, going after it or getting after it the right way Right? Am I? Am I doing the right things to take the next steps? Right? Or how far even can I take this? Like, I think about that all the time. How far can I DJ? Am I going to DJ till I'm a hundred? Like, is this the right thing?
Speaker 1:So I think taking that leap was more so a push than it was a leap and I just I ended up falling into it.
Speaker 1:The same way, I fell into DJing where it was like, okay, we need more from you. That was like weddings, that was the Diamondbacks, that was anybody and everybody that was asking me to do things, and you know that I put myself in those places, but they were like we need more from you. So it kind of forced me to take the leap more. So it did then, just for me to jump on my own and be like all right, let me figure these things out. It kind of just fell into place for me and I know that always that doesn't always happen, but for me it just started to fall into place. I don't have everything together, but it was more. So like, okay, you need more for me, what more can I do in this direction and how can I define my craft after that? But I want to say I, you know I got pushed into it before I was ready, even, and I just started finding my footing from there.
Speaker 2:Yeah, no, I love that and I think that's like that's a very common thing that I hear from other people who have started their own businesses or who are like looking to make a career change or something like that. Even in running and coaching, you know there's people who say, oh man, well, I'm not a runner, like I want to run a half marathon. And every year we try and get people to run for my, my wife's dad, who uh passed away from cancer, and we run, uh every year for him which, by the way, I'm going to be hitting you up for uh, yeah, like it's.
Speaker 2:Uh, it's always kind of scary and you kind of sometimes just need that push Uh, and from there just learn, like what you said, like okay, well, this is the situation I'm in, like what else can I give, what else can I do? How can I give more of myself to this craft and to ultimately make it either a career or just like you know, a really efficient side hustle, which I know is not your thing, but it could be for someone else.
Speaker 1:Yeah, absolutely, you and your wife are so efficient in what you do though someone else. Yeah, absolutely, you and your wife are so efficient in what you do, though, like, even from the outside, looking in, it's like the second. I even met you guys. Um was like, oh, I'm in a pilot and I was like, excuse me, like the things that you guys were doing in the course that you were on, like it just seemed like you guys had it all together and I just I think that's always the common misperception was like this person has it all together and they are just you know, they they got it all. How can I do that, right, yeah, um, and I don't think that's it. I don't. I think we're all just here trying to figure it out step by step Absolutely Well, I appreciate you saying that.
Speaker 2:I can't confirm. You know, we're in the same boat, just trying to figure out life and everything like that. So, um, it is interesting like I know social media has played a little bit of a role in that with like comparison, and you know, you see everyone's highlight reels and that kind of thing and and get tough sometimes, um, especially like if you're not where you want to be, um, but you know, you know it's that's the thing is comparison. You can't really do that. It's uh, you've probably heard the same comparison is the thief of joy and, um, it really is true, like if, if you're comparing yourself to other people, if you're trying to say, you know, well, dj take two started his business and I'm nowhere near that, like I got to start at ground zero.
Speaker 2:But the thing is is you started ground zero too, and it, uh, it builds up from there, and so it's like everyone is going to be a beginner at some point and, um, people are going to fail, people are going to mess up, and it's just staying consistent, staying disciplined and and continuing to move forward. But, um, yeah, I think what you said, though, about like refining your craft, you definitely did, because I remember, like when we, uh, when we became one of your clients and we were like all right, well, you know, we got to meet and talk about the playlist and everything like that, um, you, I can't remember the software that we had, but you're like okay, yeah, just like, put some songs in this, like ones that you want a vibe, oh yes, yeah, yeah, that's it.
Speaker 2:Um, and I just remember I was like like the only thing I, I you know we cannot have at our wedding is the uh, the cha-cha slide, the Cupid shuffle and all those classic ones that you have, which are good songs, I will say Um, but you know um.
Speaker 2:So, like I thought it was cool, you took a really personal approach to um. You know, what do you guys want? How do you envision the wedding? Um, and then it's like the way that you manage the music at the wedding I thought was like spot on, it was perfect Um yeah. One of my cousins. He actually just got married and he asked my brothers and I to be the DJs. And it was not.
Speaker 2:Not as smooth, not even close, and like no mixing it was just like yeah, one song from the other. Some songs had to get skipped because they weren't approved um just random it sounds like my first couple weddings. It's all right, yeah well, we should talk about those a little bit. How, how was it like um, did you feel pressure going into, like you know, the first one, and um, I'm sure you know you're like oh, man, the bride, I better have everything set in place. This is her day, and what was that like?
Speaker 1:Yeah, I want to say one of my first couple weddings I always remember was a good friend's wedding, and I won't say I messed it up, but I will say I didn't have all my stuff together and it was like that. It was all over the place. It was a little less organized and one of the things that they just really wanted was to kind of make it feel like a club, and that's something I can always do and I think I try to even still carry a little bit more of that, like today, and try to make it not just feel so cut and dry like a wedding. But that was one of the great things I was able to do. Other than that, I think people forget the rest of the wedding is a lot of MC work. You got to talk to people. You got to like go out there, put yourself out there, kind of curate these moments in between. Uh, and I messed all of that up. I think I got people's names wrong during toast. I even like and it was a good friend of mine, but I ended up getting their name wrong just out of nervousness, mispronouncing different things, not knowing where I was going, just timeline stuff that I was like OK, let me put all this together. So this is. I messed it all up. It just helped me define my craft, like I think, like you said, now I have programs now in place where you know you can put music, um, and it gives me a great suggestion for what you guys like. And let me say you guys did an amazing job.
Speaker 1:Um, a lot of couples, a lot of couples that are hard to pick from and they're like I don't, I don't know what I like, which is, you know you still got to do something with, but you guys did a great job putting music in there. I can only do so much. I can literally only DJ right, it is is on the couple to, you know, help bring the energy, and that's something that you guys brought and that's something I look forward with all my couples that I, you know, talk to, or that I, you know, on board, is like you guys also got to bring it, or your crowd has to bring it, or you guys have to have that type of energy. And I knew just right from the beginning and you're like can you introduce my mom? When you said, I was like this is how we're starting.
Speaker 1:I know it's going to be a party, like I just knew. So I think you know it's I, as much as I hate to say the wedding is so much, not, it's not even me, like I can only do so much, I can only DJ, right, but it's so much of you guys, so much of the crowd and you guys help so much. But what I just try to do is have those things in place where, um, you know, set you guys up for success and set me up for success as well yeah, yeah, I mean you've built systems over the years like to, to help refine it and everything like that.
Speaker 2:but I'm sure a lot of it does depend on the crowd, like, um, have you had some sometimes where, like people just don't dance at all or they kind of just sit back Like are those tough? I can't imagine.
Speaker 1:They are. They're real rough. I've had, I've had, I want to say, thousands, thousand dollars of weddings, like people spend hundreds of thousands of dollars, right, and nobody dances. Yeah, right, because they're focused on the wrong things. Like cool, look at this, I sculpture over here, right? Um, and some of the some of the lowest budget weddings are like some of the best, to be honest.
Speaker 1:So I don't think it's a matter of like you know all the oohs and ahs and bells and whistles, but I've dealt with a lot of those small crowds or even large crowds that are like, yeah, we're just not going to dance, we're just not going to, and it's rough, but sometimes you just got to play through it. It's like you know, you start playing music for yourself. You know what would I like to hear, based on what the couple gave me and how much more can I mix in? But then also, what I try to do is just focus on the people that are dancing, whether it's one person, right, even if one person is only out there on the dance floor, I'm going to play what that one person likes all day, so they keep on dancing and who knows?
Speaker 1:they're just going to be a party starter, because once they're dancing and you know other people see that type of energy right, they're going to want to hop out there too and hopefully it starts to build that crowd. But you know, there have been days where it's just that one person and all you could do is be best friends with that one person say what else would you like to hear?
Speaker 2:it's you and me. Let's do it.
Speaker 1:That's all you can do so I mean you just got to play through it and kind of keep on going, no matter what.
Speaker 2:No, I love it. That's like I mean another great lesson for life. Like, just you know, sometimes you just got to make do with what you got and keep going Like that's a big one that I've been trying to adapt just kind of in my own life with starting getting after it and those kind of things. It's like it started at least this podcast started very small and, um, the first episodes were a lot like what sounds like your first weddings, like I was so nervous you could hear it in my voice and really tough to listen to. But, um, like you have to get those reps, like you have to get the tough ones and uh, eventually it builds into what it is. You which I envision the podcast hopefully getting much better in the future.
Speaker 2:But it's still growing and it's fun. It's just fun being part of that process where it's like I'm going to build something and I'm going to see where I can take it in the future, and that kind of thing. And it sounds like you did the same exact thing with your business, which I think is great, and yeah.
Speaker 1:Yeah, slowly and surely, man, it's just, it's, it's all a process and I think you know, even from running and stuff. It's just, it's all. It's such a process where you're like am I ever going to get faster, Am I ever going to get better at this? Like, am I ever gonna get better at this? Like, when does when does running get fun? That's yeah, and you're like never it never.
Speaker 2:Yeah, no, it's all pain. It's like I've I've been running pretty seriously for the past four years and I will say there's days that like I'm like, okay, that run wasn't that bad, but like for me it's like it was never. Oh, I had a great time on that one um, yeah, unless it's in like yeah, the mountains are different, Like when I trail run. It's a little different because, like you're in nature and you know you get some scenery yeah.
Speaker 2:Yeah, you get some scenery, but like when you're just on the road and you're just going for it, it's like man, you just it's all in, yeah, but Arizona is probably also the worst when it comes to like scenery and landscape, like there's nothing to look, yeah and heat too, like man I was, uh, I was down there I was down there two days ago and it's like 115 um, and now I'm back up in utah, which is where we live now, and it's like, yeah, oh, it's, it's 96, but that you know, 20 degree difference is like all right I'm okay.
Speaker 1:Yeah, oh man, it's rough out here and it's just such a dry heat I'm sure you guys have more just like humidity and things that just make it it's. It gets sticky and all of that it's rough. Yeah, well, it's not that bad. Utah's.
Speaker 2:Uh, it's pretty dry, um, but it's just, and all of that, it's rough. Yeah, well, utah's a, it's pretty dry, um, but it's just like, yeah, it gets pretty hot and it's like really muggy or not muggy, uh, smoggy, like there's a ton of smog and stuff that comes from Salt Lake that just goes through the Valley, but, um, yeah, I mean it's bad, though like up here can't, can't really complain. A lot, a lot different than arizona, so yeah, but I gotta take a visit, man.
Speaker 2:Yeah, I mean, I can be jealous I admire it though, like getting out there, like my brother, he's stuck down there and he's, he's uh running outside all the time and I'm like you know what kudos to you, man, that's. That's way harder than anything I I could do.
Speaker 2:But um yeah, also like last july, I went to, went to Arizona to run a 50 K in the desert. Um, it was at nighttime, which was supposed to be a little bit better, but um, yeah, that was tough, like cause I trained in Utah and it was a lot cooler. And then I went down there and it was like when we started the race, I think it was 106.
Speaker 1:Oh my gosh 50 K in the desert is is insane. I have like a million and one running questions that I'm sure we'll probably get to, but yeah, 50k in the desert is just. That's a different type of like, just mental state and like just being able to continue and go through it because I don't know what's I had. I had to start learning. I'll just tell this quick side note I I started running a little bit ago, but even still learning distances and like kilometers and things like that, when I was like, okay, like you know 10k, cool, you know what I mean and then like 20k, and then once you start to get in like the 50ks and I'm sure you've seen like ultras and things like that where I was like how how do people do this? Like I'm barely making it to 10k, to half marathon, to even a full marathon I was like where do you even sign up for a 50k?
Speaker 2:where you find out this information yeah, there's this website that I I find I think it's called like ultra, ultra racescom, like that's really what it's called, um, and then you could just like search all the different ones, um, so, yeah, I found that and I was like because I signed up for one that was supposed to be earlier in the year in utah and I got really sick before and I was really bummed, but it's like I still gotta get the distance in. I signed up for this thing and so just shifted it to Arizona, which was maybe not the best idea. But, um, yeah, no, I, I have the same question Like um, you're getting into running and stuff. Have you?
Speaker 2:Have you learned about, uh, cameron Haynes? Do you know who he is? I have? Yes, dude, that guy he's's, he's insane. He just ran a race, um, it's called the cocodona 250. I saw, yeah, so it's like from tucson to flagstaff, basically, yeah, and uh, he ran the whole thing with a broken foot oh my goodness yeah, like leading up to it, he was on like the joe rogan podcast and joe's like you probably shouldn't run like that sounds stupid.
Speaker 2:And he's like, ah, it's, I'll be fine. It's like that's a different animal. So I'm also trying to understand how they do it.
Speaker 1:But I think it's insane, especially those where they're like oh yeah, I'm just gonna take like a 15 minute nap so I can stay on my pace yeah, excuse me yeah, after three days I think it worked out. I don't. Did he somebody that finished first? Was he? Did he finish first? Somebody finished first?
Speaker 2:it wasn't him. No, I think he was like eighth or something like that, but um, whoever finished first?
Speaker 1:it was like they had to keep somewhere around like an eight minute pace for like whatever 250 miles.
Speaker 2:Yeah insane Plus. On top of that they have like 43,000 elevation gain or like feet of elevation gain. So, yeah, that's insane, yeah, but um yeah, I, I would like to to bring it back though a little bit and um yeah, how did you get into running?
Speaker 1:Um, oh man, the same way I got into dj um it was, it was more forced on me, I think um, somewhere around the covet times 2019 or so, was like, even though I stopped playing football, I never stopped working out and being active and being outside and stuff. So when all the gyms closed, I was like I have to do something and I was literally trapped. All the gyms closed. I was like I have to do something and I was literally trapped in the house and I was like I can't go anywhere to like lift weights, to go to the gym, whatever. So I was like I'm just going to run, like I'm just going to go outside and like go for a walk, and then a walk turned into a run, and then a run was like okay, well, I did like one or two miles, let me see how many more I can do. So I used to run the loop. It's somewhere around the Biltmore area in Phoenix, but it's a nice little loop and it takes you around. I think it goes even further. I don't know, maybe a stretch of like 10 miles or so. I think it goes even further. I don't know, maybe a stretch of like 10 miles or so. Um, but I only ran like four miles. I've run like down. And then I would just say like, okay, I'm three miles away from the house. Awesome, that means I have to run three miles back, like that, that was just my distance barometer was like okay, I'm 1.5. I'm two miles out. I'm three miles out, okay, that means I, I just got to make it home, like I can't call an Uber, I can't do anything else. So, um, yeah, I, it was more forced on me. I didn't really want to run. It was just like let me get outside and let me start running. Um, so I started somewhere around 2019 and just kind of graced my way into it. Um, and just kind of graced my way into it.
Speaker 1:Um, I will say, though, I had a big break in between then and now, just because I think, with running, even with anything within life in general, I think you need to set goals, and I had none, like I had zero goals. So I mean, I'm sure you've seen it, but you get like runner's fatigue and especially it hit me really fast because I didn't have any goals. I wasn't signing up for any races, I wasn't doing anything. I was just like I'm going to get outside and run. So you know, when I got tired of it, I got sick and tired of it I was like why would I do that?
Speaker 1:Go outside and run for fun, like I was like I don't know who that a year or so ago I picked back up so I had a nice little year gap, um. And then last year somewhere I picked back up and I was just like I really want to commit to this, um, so I started signing up for races, I started doing things. I think that's the always the poison out there is. Like I signed up for a race. You even kind of mentioned it. I signed up for a race, I gotta do it.
Speaker 2:So yeah, that's what keeps me going no, that's great.
Speaker 2:Like in um, it really is helpful just to have a goal, um. And there are people, like you know, who don't like the race environment and stuff, and I just tell them like, okay, we'll just have the goal to be better than yourself. Like maybe it's you have a 10 minute pace and you want to get it down to like 9, 30 or 9 um and and let's try and get that done in in three to four months, which seems, you know, pretty quick. But, um, I think it's, it's, it's doable, but I think that's huge.
Speaker 1:Like set a goal for yourself and hold yourself to it, like it's self accountability at that point and um yeah, I think it's so much to learn in there, though it's like there's so many interests, intricacies of like running and like the things to do. I didn't know like okay, I need to run slower, like right, like all that zone two kind of type of stuff, where it was like all right, I'll run a little bit slower so I can get my endurance up, and then you know, I can do those different tempo runs, um, but I think it's lower so I can get my endurance up, and then you know I can do those different tempo runs, um, but I think it's, yeah, it's just important to just start. Once you start, it's like okay, let me, it's, this wasn't that bad, we can do this or like we can always the hardest part like that's always the hardest part.
Speaker 2:Um, I'm sure you know who david goggins is. If you know who cameron ains is, yeah, absolutely, even him. Like he, he talks about how sometimes he'll just look at his shoes for I'm sure you know who David Goggins is. If you know who Cameron Ains is, yeah, absolutely, even him. Like he talks about how sometimes he'll just look at his shoes for 12 minutes and be like I don't want to do this. And everyone thinks about him as, like you know, the unstoppable Goggins which he probably is. I haven't seen him stop, but, like, if he's even having those thoughts, it's like I for sure will. And it's like I, I for sure will. And, um, it's like you know, get going, but it's uh, the start is always the hardest part and that's what I try and tell people who you know. They tell me they want to get into running. It's like, just understand, the beginning is when you're going to be the most sore, it's going to you're going to be the most unmotivated, but you have to commit, just show up, do what you can and, um, like you said, I think zone two is a really powerful tool for for runners to use.
Speaker 2:Um, I think so. I I hired a coach who has helped so many people hire or qualify for boston and she's ran boston a few times. Um, she's insane. But like she says, like 80 of your running should be done in zone two. Um, yeah, because like you want to build that endurance, you want to build your heart, it's the strongest or that's the muscle that's pumping the blood, um, and the only way to do that's like through slow, consistent work and it's it's not a fun answer, like no. Zone two is is, uh, never fun.
Speaker 1:But um, it's terrible because you, you feel like, and it's just like with life, you're like I want to go fast, I want to like be there, I want to just like get it done.
Speaker 1:And even when I first started running, that was just the mindset was like I'm gonna go out here, I'm gonna be as fast as possible, like I'm just going to go, so like I would just gas all gas for like three, four miles and be like this was it was a great workout, right, yeah, and that's ultimately how I got the runner's fatigue was just like I was just gassing myself and then I didn't know what I was doing.
Speaker 1:So I mean I think, yeah, like you said, it's just a mindset where you're like, even though I don't want to and even though this is going to suck even now, zone two training sucks, because I know I can go faster and I'm sure you do this too, but I know I can go faster than this. I know I can like pick up the pace and just like keep going, but like staying in zone two and just like going through it, enduring it, all that stuff where it's like it's more of a mindset than it is. Yeah, almost anything, right, because on two you're like it's not painful yeah, you probably have a conversation you're you're just chilling right, it feels good.
Speaker 1:but then you're like, am I doing this? It's when you get to those longer miles, when you're like I could have been done, what am?
Speaker 2:I doing.
Speaker 1:So it's always a process, but whether it's life or running, I think it's just always knowing like, all right, there's an end goal here. I got to go through this so I can get faster, or so I can have the endurance to actually, like, hit the goals that I want to hit.
Speaker 2:No, I think that's a great perspective and really good point. Like, stay accountable to the goals. And one thing I always tell people is like, don't be afraid to adjust. That's something I also tell, like myself all the time is like, don't be afraid to adjust your goals. Um, my wife and I we were actually supposed to run the grandma's marathon in Duluth, minnesota, um, in two days. But, um, yeah, we we had to pull out cause she has like really really bad runner's knee.
Speaker 1:Oh no.
Speaker 2:Yeah, which is like it's caused from like mobility problems and and other like small muscles you would never like consider, even like working out. Oh yeah, it's, it's the other muscles overcompensate. Consider even like working out, oh yeah, it's, it's the other muscles overcompensate, which causes knee problems. And yeah, we were just like, yeah, let's just, you know, it's a race that we can always run it next year We'll be fine. But like that's. The thing is like she was real bummed and I told her like hey, real bummed.
Speaker 2:And uh, I told her like hey, your job now is just like full recovery mode, like let's just get you better, um, let's get you back into running, like you don't want to be hurt you, because she's like I'll go out there and I'll run the race and I'm like that's you know probably not the best idea, like I really admire the ambition, but you know, it's for future sake and for your, the future of your knees, let's, let's, uh, reconsider um, yeah, so I'm like proud of her for wanting to push, but, um, I think it's important to you know it's, it's okay to adapt and I think a lot of that takes humility sometimes because, like you said, you're like man, I want to go fast or I, I know I can do this and I can do, I can run faster than um, I'm doing here in zone two or whatever it is. Uh, but you know it takes a little humility to say, ok, well, I'm going to ease off and and rethink here, rethink my strategy, but yeah.
Speaker 1:How do you, how do you even do that? Because you did you mentioned the 50K. So how do you even do that for for 50K? Like I think it's such a mental game where you're like all right, how do I not, how do I not burn out right here?
Speaker 1:yeah I don't like just gas myself. But also, how do I have the patience to like finish this out? Because, even like I all, I mean I haven't done a full marathon yet, but I'm, you know, I'm training and prepping for one. But but even so, along the way, it's those mental roads where you're like all right, I could, I could just call it quits now. Or like this is, this is, this is a lot. Or like you know, you're only at mile 20 and you're like great, I got 20 more of these things to go. Or whatever it is. How do you do that?
Speaker 2:Yeah, that's a great question. I mean, the 50K was one of the ones that tested me, I think the most, because that was like the furthest distance I did. It was 31 miles. It was a seven and a half mile loop. I'd usually pass actually, so it was just around there. Um, and the first two laps, so like the first 15 miles, were pretty brutal, just because I think I uh wasn't used to the heat and, um, I went out the gate pretty hot, like I think I was probably in third place for the first lap or so, and then, um, instantly, like I felt it as soon as I entered the second lap and, um, this is pretty gross, but like every quarter mile I'd throw up in, uh, in the bushes, and keep going yeah, and that's it was tough, like that's the thing is.
Speaker 2:I was like man, I'm losing all my fuel because you have to carve up quite a bit for those races and yeah um, I'm, I'm losing all my water, so I'm going to get dehydrated here.
Speaker 2:And I finished the second lap and then, like I called my coach and I went to the medic tent because, like I was like I don't even know if I should be running this thing, and the medic said that I was good, they're like all the vitals are fine, you could probably run this thing. And my coach said she thinks it was probably just a dehydration thing. So if I could like sip water, um, then I could probably get through Um. But I wanted to quit so many times during that race, like I wanted to throw in the towel, um, but there were a couple of reasons, like I wanted to keep going. That race was a little special because my, my friend Jordan, he, uh, he was battling stage four colon cancer at the time and I told him I would run the race for him. And so, like I was like I'm, I'm bought in, like I'm not gonna stop we got shirts made and everything that was like cancer sucks.
Speaker 2:um, the, uh, the company that he owned, they made all these hats for our race and stuff and so, like we, uh, I was like I can't, can't drop out of this thing, and and then I just kept thinking to him, um, and that's one thing. Honestly, like I, I do a lot is, uh, I think about the people who can't run, uh, as as weird as that sounds, but, um, like I remember the first time that happened, I was inah and I was running um by a park and there was this little kid who I don't, I don't know what kind of disability he had, but he had those little arm crutches and he was kind of limping along and, um, I was like man, that kid is like six years old and I assume, and I'm like he's never, like it sounds bad, but he's never going to be able to run, at least I don't think and I just thought about that and I was like you know, at least I can, like I I'm.
Speaker 2:I might not be the best runner, like there's obviously other people who are much more skilled, faster than I am, but I have the opportunity and then like my body's well enough to to run and so, um, that's a perspective I I kind of gained during that race was like I, I'm fortunate enough to be able to have two legs, that that work well, and um, so that kept me going a lot. But I think at the the end of the day, it was just like I wanted to keep that commitment to myself. And, um, it did get tough, like my headlight shut off a few times, um, the batteries kept dying.
Speaker 2:It's like I was running in the desert in the dark and I had my iphone light, which was terrible, and there's so much like dust blowing, like there was a dust storm going on that blew through, so it's like I'm just seeing dust in front of me, yeah, but it was like I don't know, it was also kind of an adventure. I was like this is you, is something that a lot of people probably won't be able to experience, and I'm like I'm lucky enough that I can and uh, so I think gratitude and then just like I want to know what my limits are and and and see what I, what I can do in that sense. But yeah, I don't know if that's the answer you're looking for, but I know, I think that's a great answer.
Speaker 1:I think that's one of just because you just said it is so much gratitude and I think that's one of the things that has one pushed me further as a DJ. But also now in my running journey is like just being thankful for being able to be out there and being able to run and just, you know, being able to DJ. Not a lot of people get a chance to make a career out of DJing. So I think it's being thankful, but you know, it's crazy because it didn't really hit me like at least with gratitude and running until, like I want to say, a couple of races ago, where it's like it's it's there's always these couple of people out there but it made me like laugh and it made me like be grateful. I was running. It was just a 10 K, but I was running and I'm like I'm low key, like trying to give it my all, like I'm trying to PR, I'm doing great.
Speaker 1:There is a guy out there who came out there in shorts and flip-flops and he is like beating my like he's just ridiculous and like I was like when I first saw I was like this is, this is stupid, this is ridiculous, like there's no way.
Speaker 1:He's just beating me right, dusting me, but on the way, he was so thankful for everybody, like the people that had water out there, the people water stations. Sometimes they'll shut down streets and stuff, so there were police out there. He was just like, hey, thanks for being out here, hey, thanks for being out here, hey, like we really appreciate it. Like patting people on the back while he's running by and I'm like that, you know, to the wrong person that could be like leave me the hell alone, Like, but it was like it could be a dis to me. But just seeing that and in retrospect, when I finished, I was just like I think that's it Like just being grateful for being out here, just being appreciative for being out here, just being appreciative for yeah, you know, having the space, having the capacity to run, um, not that it's going to make you any faster, but I think it makes it not.
Speaker 1:So not enjoyable I wouldn't even say enjoyable is the word, but I I think I do think there's a certain element where you start to not look at it like I gotta. Like if I'm, I gotta be my PR and if I don't, I'm going to beat myself up about it all day. You know what I mean. Like you just start to be able to appreciate where you're at and what you're doing a whole lot more.
Speaker 1:Like whether it's running or whether it's DJing, whatever it is, I think you know. Even going back to those empty dance floors, it's like I appreciate where I'm at and I appreciate what I'm doing. Um, you know, cause I could be the best DJ somebody has ever heard, but in my mind there's only one person out there in this dance floor sucks.
Speaker 2:Right Like it's.
Speaker 2:I think it's all perspective and I think it's like you said, it's just gratitude is being able to appreciate where you're at and what you're doing in that moment yeah, it really does just give you a different perspective to to look at things and, um, for me, it just yeah, like you said, I I think it's it helps you see that your journey is unique to yourself. Um, because I think, like what we were talking about a little bit in the beginning about comparison, like it's easy to jump on social media and and I follow a ton of like amazing athletes Like, uh, nick bear is one of them. I don't know if you've you've seen him before, but he's yeah, I got to look like I got to.
Speaker 1:Oh, there we go yeah.
Speaker 2:Go one more. You got the black one. There we go. Yeah, wasn't that one a limited edition, or?
Speaker 1:something it was. It was, but when I first like started following him, I was like, let me just sign up to be whatever member or whatever. So I think last month or a couple of months ago it was like hey, we're coming back out with the black hats. And I was like, great, I, we're coming back out with the black hats and I was like, great, I get one.
Speaker 2:Yeah, man, I mean that that guy's amazing and the things that he's doing, like he's so fast. He got hit by a car this year and then he's bounced back and now he's like still cranking out crazy fast miles. And then there's this other guy who's Cameron Haynes, his son. I don't know. Do you know who Truett Haynes is?
Speaker 1:I don't know. I've heard of him but I don't. I don't think I watched his stuff or anything.
Speaker 2:You got to look this guy up Cause he's another animal. Like he just ran the Boston marathon Um, he's kind of like that guy that you ran, uh against in shorts and flip-flops. He ran it in jeans and, uh, he got like a two 36 marathon time, Um, and then, like, he ran another marathon a week later in jeans and the last mile his shoe fell off. But he just picked up a shoe and ran with one shoe on and still got like a two 38. Oh my.
Speaker 2:God Just like these animals and it's like easy to see that and be like man. I'll never be like them, but instead it's like hey, I have a chance if I just stay consistent at this thing. But you know what they're doing, something that's amazing and, um, I don't know. I like being in a world where it's like hey, kudos to you for running a marathon in jeans, or kudos to you for running in flip-flops and shorts. Uh, yeah, that's pretty cool. I would never do it, but at least I got it to you.
Speaker 1:So yeah, I think that you just get to a point where you're like you do get to enjoy it. Like, yeah, you know, even though you're working hard to like, set a goal, set a pr, whatever it is like, you get to those points where you're like I've worked this hard, I'm I'm gonna enjoy it. You know, whatever happens to me, like I'm gonna enjoy it when my shoe could fall off, whatever it is, I'm gonna be out here having fun with it as well.
Speaker 2:Like yeah you know, well, I, um, I have to ask you about your, uh, your triathlon that you podium for oh yeah yeah, tell me about that. That was awesome. I saw that and I was like dang dj takes me, let's go yeah, it is um.
Speaker 1:It was another thing that I was um forced or pushed into.
Speaker 2:So that's the key is like, hey, if I want to get him to do anything, I just got to push him into it.
Speaker 1:Basically, that has, that's always been my life. I don't know why, but things just fall into my lap and, you know, do different events. So I did a dualathlon, which is you do the same event twice. Instead of run bike swim, I did run bike run.
Speaker 1:Right Because OK yeah, I know I'm not a good swimmer, so I just like. I was like I, I can't. But the friend that got me into it his name is jordan hunter, amazing guy, and he teaches swim. He used to be navy, um, but he teaches aquatics and literally called me one day and was like hey, there's this triathlon coming up. I think you can do it. And immediately I was like I don't know who you think I am. Like what the hell? Like yeah, I'm posting running stories.
Speaker 2:What are you talking about?
Speaker 1:Exactly. That was like I'm I'm just out here having fun posting my running videos, just minding my business, um, but he was you know, shout out to friends that believe in you, cause I was insane. So he called me and he was like you know, shout out to friends that believe in you because I was insane. So he called me and he was like you should do this. He was like it's in Omaha, nebraska, and you have like a month. And I was like OK, I think I can do it.
Speaker 1:And it was one of those things where I signed up and I was like I'm signed up, I'm committed, yeah, that's it, that's, that's all it is to it. Um, so I, I got out there and I just started running my race. I, I think it's it's, I don't know. It's such an amazing environment to be around so many people with like amazing talent, great mindsets, and like you're telling people like it's not a secret, I'm like, hey, it's my, it's my first one. And they're like, oh, you're going to do great. Like you don't know that, like I'm down on myself and they're out there like you're going to do amazing. Yeah, I just know it. Like you're going to do great, yeah, or like you know the things that you've been saying, the fact that you're starting is amazing, like just being out here is great, so it started out with so much gratitude that I really appreciated it. And then, when I finished one of the races, I ran two races out there and I only podiumed once, which is amazing regardless.
Speaker 2:That's so cool, yeah, which is amazing regardless.
Speaker 1:Um. But when I finished, uh, the race that I podium for, um, it was run, bike, run, um, and I got done and I was, honestly, truly, truly just happy. I finished like I was good, I was done. And then one of the guys I just met out there, he was like hey man, Um, he was like you got third place. I said what he was like hey man, um, he's like you got third place. I said what he was like you got third place. I was like why would I? Why would I literally ask? I was like why would they give me third place?
Speaker 1:like that's great, I don't know I don't deserve third place, right? Um, and before I knew it, they called my name up to the podium and it was. It was just, it was an amazing moment. Um, but I, I went out there. But I, I went out there with zero expectation. I went out there with the thought that I was probably going to fail at this. There's literally Olympians out there that are like better than you, right, so I just, it was an amazing moment, it was great. I was forced into it. But, um, you know, it's now it's got me into it where I've caught the bug and you know, I'll see what else I can do with it. Hopefully I'll get in the water next time. Yeah, but it was, it was such an amazing moment, it was, it was great.
Speaker 2:So that's really cool. No, that that is really awesome. And like, I feel like the race environment does that, like there's something about races I'm sure it's the same in a triathlon but everyone does seem to be like, oh yeah, you're going to be fine, like it's. It's not like, uh, like you probably have this in football, you know, you see the other team and you're like you guys are going to die. I'm going to kill you guys, like you know something like that Like get ready.
Speaker 2:You guys are in for in for hell, um. But like at a race, it's like, hey, just do your best, like just show up and do what you can, and uh, I also remember, like my first marathon I was terrified, um, and I was like all alone up in, uh, like they bust you up super far and then they just drop you off and you're sitting all alone for like two hours in the middle of nowhere, and so, like I'm just trying to walk around and and um, I remember talking to this one guy and he's asking me you know how long I've been running?
Speaker 2:I was like about a year and a half. And um, he goes, okay. Well, like this is your first one. Like I remember mine. It's a special experience, like take every moment in as well as you can. And um, I remember after that race, I was just like it was so weird. It's like a emotional roller coaster. Like I'm not one that gets emotional, but like I remember driving over um, we have tons of hills here in utah and I drove over a hill and I saw like the mountains in the background. I was like life is so beautiful, like it's so stupid, like but um, I just cried.
Speaker 1:I cried too.
Speaker 2:It's okay yeah I don't know if I was happy because it was over or, like you know, proud of myself, I was able to push through, or whatever it was, but like, yeah, it's just, it's, it's a cool place to be in, um, like it's a supportive community and stuff like that, and yeah, I think that's one of the craziest things I noticed too is like running is so supportive, like yeah.
Speaker 1:I think other sports, like you said, football is it's competitive um, where you're like I'm out here to beat whoever, Right, and even even like you think to yourself, it's so intimidating because you're like a bunch of these people are going to be faster than me and I want to go out there and be my best. You know, you like when I first started running, oh yeah, the goal is to be first. I want to be in first place, you know, and like that's. That's just not the reality of it. I think the goal is always now is just to finish. Right, you just want to be able to finish um in the wider, what pace you can do? You're like, okay, I want to. You know, if I can beat this pace, then I'll beat my pace, but the goal number one is to finish.
Speaker 1:But the support system is so amazing because I think a lot of people will like use you as motivation and you don't even know it, like I think one of my first races there was a guy and I. I admittedly I stopped in the middle of a race, like I think it was only a 10 K or so, but I stopped at mile three because a lot of my practice I was so used to like running one mile and stopping, catching my breath, whatever. So I got to mile three and I did exactly that. I stopped and, um, one of the guys behind me was like hey, you're doing great, I've been pacing you for the last three miles and you're doing like you're doing great. And then he kept on going and I was like I got to keep going, like I just have to, but it's the attitude like that.
Speaker 1:There's so many good like just attitudes and gratitude out there, where it's the attitude like that. There's so many good like just attitudes and gratitude out there, where it's like this is a supportive community and you wouldn't even think so. You're like I get it once you. We're not, we're not going to the olympics just yet. You might have a goal too, but I think the goal for now is just to be appreciative of where you're at, and everybody knows that. Like hey, yeah, I'm no olympian, I'm doing it just like you. And, um, it's, it's really good. I think the oldest athlete out there at the triathlon was 91 90 and that way that was inspiring.
Speaker 1:That was like yeah, that's amazing if they can do it. I know I like there's no reason yeah, that's.
Speaker 2:That's so cool, Dang 91 years old man 91.
Speaker 1:It was amazing and they podiumed. I mean, it was an age bracket thing. I don't think there was anybody even close to them.
Speaker 2:You're the only 90-year-old, let's go Exactly. But yeah, either way. Sorry about that. No, I'm sorry. It's all right, man, technical difficulties always happen.
Speaker 1:It's adaptive. We're talking about it today. Yeah, yeah, but um, yeah, it was good.
Speaker 2:Uh, 91 years old was the oldest and it was amazing. It is amazing and, uh, I've I've thought a lot actually about like the um, like how I. I just think the running community is so supportive and I think it comes down to the fact that you're just suffering together with everybody around you. Like it's when you're suffering that forms bonds and, like I, one of my buddies up here in Utah, his friend, was running 31 miles for his 31st birthday and it was just at a park. It was a one mile loop, so they had to do it 31 times.
Speaker 2:I like when I saw that, I was like you should have picked a different one, but the reason they did it is he's like he's like we did a one mile loop so people could just come and run whatever they were comfortable doing, um, and so people would come and run like two miles with them or a mile or whatever, and, um, I just ended up running like 10 with this guy and didn't know him before. I ran with him and at the end we were like buddies and like we learned all about each other and stuff. And it's just like you know, we're going through something difficult together.
Speaker 1:Might as well make the most of it, and I think it does do something where it's like know we're in this together and we're uh, we're suffering it's really basically all the pain, but I think that's great, like it's such a bonding experience where, like I mean even people you don't know yeah, you start connecting with and you're like, hey, we're here, we're just, yeah, we got about two hours, so let's just talk to each other. You know, see it through.
Speaker 2:Absolutely yeah, one. One of my favorite pictures that I have was, uh, from my 50 K that I ran in Arizona, Um, on my second lap I was like really struggling, um, but my wife was like, hey, I'll run this one with you. And I was like, okay, all right, well, whatever, she didn't sign up for the race or anything, but that day before, I think, she ran, or the day of she ran 15 miles.
Speaker 2:So she was kind of doing her own ultra marathon. But she's like I'll run this lap with you and she did, and that whole time I relied on her strength because she had way more than I did during the time. And it's like that guy who's like, hey, you're doing great, and then you kept going. It's like that bleeds into each other. I feel like it's like you can lean on one another strength and if someone else is going you know that 91 year old it's like, hey, I can keep going too. Yeah.
Speaker 1:I love it. Did you start running first, like your journey, and then wifey joined in, or was it the opposite?
Speaker 2:It was.
Speaker 2:It was kind of on my own. At first. I, um my sister-in-law was like, hey, like I want to run a half marathon. And uh, this was back in 2021. And I was like, man, this is a crazy, like I don't know, half marathon, it sounds a little little much Um. But I was like I want to do it, I want to try. And like, during that time, um, same thing with COVID like I got into running, uh, just a little bit, not not very much, and I would do like seven mile runs every now and then, Um, but like 11 minute pace, real slow, and I was like I could probably do a half marathon.
Speaker 2:But a lot of stuff happened with my health. I got really sick back then and, um, I was down to like 135 pounds and the doctors were like, if you run this, you'll probably have a heart attack. So I was like, okay, I got to stop. Oh, my gosh. Um. But that planted the seed and I was like, okay, I want to see where this leads, I want to see what I can do. And then, um, they actually sent a metal to like my parents, cause I didn't sign up for the race or I didn't show up to the race and I was like, mom, you can't give me that metal. I didn't earn it, Um. And then I was like I moved up to Utah and still was running a little bit consistently. And then, um, I just ran a half marathon outside, just by myself, because I wanted to earn that medal. My mom sent it to me. That was my first one.
Speaker 2:Then I started dating the wife. Every single year they run a race for her dad who passed away from cancer. Like I was saying it's just a half marathon, saying, and it's just a half marathon, um, but what they do is like they'll get tons of people who don't run or people who run now and then like, but they'll all come together and run for a cause. So we all run to support those who have been like you know, who have been impacted by cancer in some way. And so we started dating and she's like, hey, hey, like, come run. This race in January is in Newport beach, Um, and I was like man, okay, so I, uh, I got into it that way and I was like I'm going to, I'm going to go into it and I had, I pushed myself hard on that race. It was like my first actual official half marathon.
Speaker 2:But I was like I gotta, I gotta beat everyone Um and it was like after that I was like well, um, yeah you know, I think I'm going to marry this girl and uh, running is not going away, so I better just get used to it.
Speaker 2:And so, like, uh, after that, I ran my first marathon, and um, in June of that year so six months later um, but yeah, I mean it's, it's always something that's like I've I've been, I admire people who run and I've always considered myself someone who doesn't like it's, it's easy, I think to to put yourself in that bucket of like oh yeah, I don't run like that's not for me, but yeah, that's the thing.
Speaker 2:And so, like, what I love about it now is what you've talked about a lot is like the mental piece is I always ask myself okay, well, can I take the next step? Uh, if the answer is yes, then I try to um, and obviously I'm not like I don't do it if I'm injured or anything like that, but um really just want to like see what my limits are, and it's been a good, um therapeutic thing for me. Like, I get a lot of time to think when I'm running and um, especially like when it's in the trails, like being in nature and stuff is is beautiful, but um, that's kind of how I got into it, and so she's kept me consistent and uh yeah, now it's what a a way, what a way to test your relationship.
Speaker 1:It's like I'm gonna take you on a half marathon and see if you make it yeah, it was good, but like I don't know it was.
Speaker 2:it was one of those experiences, too, where, like you know, we had a whole airbnb full of people in california uh, that were all friends that running this race, and like that was something where I was like man, man, I can get behind something like this, like this is a community and um, I think, yeah, this year we, we did it in Vegas. Uh, the rock and roll marathon or the half marathon in Vegas, which, if you get the chance to do that, that's, that's pretty cool, cause it's at nighttime and, um, there's tons of DJs all along.
Speaker 1:actually, want to do it, yeah, cool.
Speaker 2:Um, but yeah, I think this year we had around 45 people um show up and run, and so, like it's just cool to see that um, see that piece of it, and like that's what I love to see now is is other people testing themselves and, and, um, like my brother, same boat, he was like I'm never going to be a runner and uh, I don't know, know, you may have saw him at my wedding, but he was the the one with the super long hair.
Speaker 2:He was a bigger dude. Yeah, um, he was 265 at the time. Uh, now he's down to 203 and he ran his first marathon last november and now he's running a 50k with me in October and it's just cool like seeing him, like you know, grow and develop in this in this way. And um, yeah, I don't know, I think I love that piece of it too is like people testing themselves, not thinking that they have the potential to do what they want to do, and then seeing that they can and um, then they're like, oh, what's next? Like what else can I do after this?
Speaker 1:like that that's really cool to me.
Speaker 1:Oh yeah, I always loved seeing that. It's like people push their limits. I think that's kind of how we all get into it and it's like, yeah, I'm not a runner, I don't really do that type of stuff. And then you're like, all right, this isn't that bad. And then you get out there and kind of continue to do it. And now I think I'm in that phase too where, um, I guess now I'm trying to sightsee a little bit so I might sign up for the rock and roll in Vegas and try to get some other stuff, just cause, yeah, arizona's landscape isn't great, but I think being in those environments is always fun too. Like, oh, okay, now there's there's a DJ out here, and now I get to see different stuff. Or, you know, now I get to be around different people and stuff. I want to do the Disney half.
Speaker 2:Oh yeah, that's at Disneyland, right? Or does it just pass through Disneyland?
Speaker 1:But it sells out like a year or two years in advance. Like I think 2026 is sold out already. Oh my gosh, when is it it is? They do two of them. There's one around Halloween time, I think there's three one around Halloween time which sells out just because it's costumes and stuff yeah, then they do a winter one as well Winter wonderland, and then one at the top of the year somewhere in January. But like all three of them sell out so fast. So I'm like I'm in that stage where I'm looking them up and like all my Instagram feed is like next race, but I want to go outside wherever you know Long Beach, somewhere, vegas and actually go run and do some different stuff. So I'm in that phase.
Speaker 2:But it's a crazy journey. It's a fun phase to be in you you alluded to it a little bit. I think it is expensive. Yeah, I don't understand. Like that's one thing. I'm like does it really cost that much to put on a race? Like come on, guys, like the price a little bit.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:I gotta, I gotta do something difficult. Plus I got to pay $150 to do it.
Speaker 1:There's been a couple races, especially where I've been also like slightly disappointed, because I sign up, of course you get a bib, you get whatever, whatever. But then you don't get a medal. Not that you're in it for the medal, but you won a medal. I'm not getting anything else out of this race but a medal and some good vibes. I better get a medal, like I'm not getting anything else out of this race but a medal and you know some good vibes. I better get a medal. And there have been multiple races where I haven't gotten a medal, where I'm like, what did I do this for?
Speaker 2:why did?
Speaker 2:I pay 150 and I don't even get I'm. I'm with you on that. When I, when I finished my 50k, they had two choices for you that you could pick as like your metal. One of them was a mug, um, and it like wasn't even that cool. And then the actual metal itself was like a piece of wood that had like uh, I don't even know what it was, it was like just one of those crappy pieces of rope that you get at home depot or something, and I was like I guess I'll take that, but like whatever, oh, it's terrible.
Speaker 2:But you said you're signing up, you're training for a marathon. Which one?
Speaker 1:I am. So Arizona, or Phoenix, has its first annual marathon. I think they used to do one maybe years and years ago, but they brought it back and they're doing the Phoenix or Arizona's first annual I call it a first, again, annual marathon. So it starts if you're familiar with Arizona's landscape, it starts somewhere like in Goodyear and then we'll end up somewhere in the Tempe, scottsdale ish area, um, but yeah, it's their first one in many, many years and, um, it's in December, um, so I'm trying to for that that. But I want to kind of do one before that, to like, I don't know, to push myself, yeah, um, but we'll see. But that one, that one's the one I'm training for somewhere in december, um, but it's such a big gap where I'm like I gotta do something else in between. So I've been doing little little ones, but I want to do a, uh, like a long beach marathon before this one and just kind of see.
Speaker 2:Oh, that'd be cool and um, I think I'm going to do the Phoenix one.
Speaker 1:I'm pretty sure I'm doing it.
Speaker 2:Yeah Well, my wife texts me today, her friend's doing it and she's like I'm going to do the Phoenix marathon and I was like, well, don't count me out, so I I might sign up.
Speaker 1:So after I, I tell her that you and I talked about this.
Speaker 2:She'll probably be like all right, sign up, let's do it. But yeah, the phoenix one. I I ran the mesa marathon. That one was cool, yeah, but phoenix would be way better. I feel like the landscape and everything would be kind of in december that's the best time to run a marathon in arizona yeah, absolutely, you only got.
Speaker 1:You got small windows out here in Arizona where it's like, all right, november, december, january. I think we're just approaching a time where I'm like, if I don't get out and run before 6am or something, I'm not, I might not for the day.
Speaker 2:It's, it's. I don't, I do not blame you. That's, that's tough man.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:Um, but I do want to ask you before we, uh, we wrap things up here. You asked me at the beginning you know what do I tell myself to? To keep going? You know when times get tough for like, when I'm like man, I got, I'm only 10 miles in, I got 10 more to go. Um, curious what you, you tell yourself no-transcript.
Speaker 1:A bad night. I'm just, you know, I don't feel great. Maybe, you know, nobody else can tell, but it's me. Same thing with weddings, whether it's one person on the dance floor and I'm like this is a bad night for me. Um. Same thing with running I'm having a bad day. I'm running slow, out of breath, I can't catch my pace Like I usually do. Um, I think it just it's gratitude, it's like it is a privilege to be where I'm at, wherever.
Speaker 1:That is, um, and I need to appreciate, I need to be in the moment and um, that's kind of what I start to tell myself anytime and every time, One of my, one of the mantras, I guess, for the triathlon, um in Nebraska, um, somebody said it to me at the beginning and I just kind of never forgot it was like your race, your pace, and like it didn't matter no matter how slow you go, no matter how fast you think you wanted to go, it didn't matter. Like it was you by yourself, doing your own race, doing your own thing, the goal is just to finish. And I think that's that's life. Like wherever you're at, finish the job, finish what you're doing and you're going to, you know, feel accomplished at the end, no matter how slow that takes you or how fast that takes you. Like it's all up to you.
Speaker 2:Yeah that's great. I think that's spot on, like it really is, and everyone's journey is unique. And, uh, it's been kind of fun just following you along on, uh, instagram and stuff and seeing the Strava trend, like I saw the one in the gas station fridge that one was sweet but it's cool. I think it inspires people to take a chance on themselves and you know they're like, oh man, I see Tyler's out there grinding Like maybe I can do the same thing and I think that's something you know. That's why we're here on Earth, at least, like I believe, to help each other out and to build each other up. And one way to do that is to make yourself better. And I think running DJing, like you know, the podcast, like all these things that you and I do that take time but you know that we enjoy to do, I think do make us better people and you know, then it's always giving. I think, do make us better people and, um, you know, and then it's always given back. So I love that. I think that's great.
Speaker 1:Absolutely. Let me tell you, you and your wife inspire me a whole lot as well, so I watch you guys through Instagram. I watch what you're doing. You're one of the like I said, one of the rare couples that, like, I still get to connect with and things. So watching you on your journey and watching you guys just continue to strive for greatness is such an inspiration to me. So you know, keep going as well.
Speaker 2:Well, I appreciate that, man, and same goes to you. Like, um, keep training, cause I, I, uh, I want to want to run with you at a at Phoenix. That'd be cool, that'd be cool.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:But, yeah, it's, um, I appreciate that and yeah, you're doing the same thing. So, um, yeah, you're, you're the man, but any anything else that you want to leave the listeners with before we wrap up you know, just keep going.
Speaker 1:keep going as as best as you can, as much as you can, just keep going. I know it's uh, it's always difficult, um, kind of like we've been saying. I know it's like am I doing the right thing? Am I heading in the right direction? Um, am I going at the pace I should be going? And I don't think that feeling ever goes away. Um, if anybody's looking for it to like when will I ever get over this or when will, I don't think it ever goes away. But, um, I think it's something you need to embrace, um, and be in it, embrace the journey, love it, um, and keep going. You'll be where you want to be before you know it, yeah.
Speaker 2:That's awesome, man. Well, I seriously appreciate you coming on. Um, one thing that's a secret, but it's coming out soon is I'm making t-shirts and as soon soon as I do, I'm going to message you for your address and I'm going to send you one, because you're in after it and every guest gets a t-shirt, so you, know it's not much.
Speaker 1:That's much love, man. It's more than I've got from a couple races. So thank you, hey, there we go.
Speaker 2:Yeah, I'm replacing the metal that you didn't get at that one race.
Speaker 1:Thank you, I appreciate that man.
Speaker 2:Yeah, but if anyone wants to follow you or reach out to you for a DJing, where should they go?
Speaker 1:Yeah, I am at DJTake2. That's T-A-K-E and then the number two everywhere, I think. Facebook, instagram, tiktok. I'm all over it, but hit me up, I'm here for anything.
Speaker 2:Whether you want some running advice, I don't have a lot, but hey you're a runner man, like that's the thing is, if you're out there doing it, you're a runner Like I um that that pace thing. You know it's. That's a. That's a real quote. You know it's um your race, your pace and the fact that you're out doing it like hey, that you're out doing it.
Speaker 1:Like hey, you're a runner, doesn't?
Speaker 2:matter. So thank you, I think it's awesome. But, um, yeah, I'll put all your stuff in the the show notes. But yeah, man, seriously thanks for coming on today and uh it was fun catching up and uh, yeah, hopefully we'll. We'll see each other soon. Absolutely, I'll see you at the next start line.
Speaker 1:Yeah, yes, sir, I'll be good all right man.
Speaker 2:Thank you so much. All right, well, thank you everyone else for listening and, as always, keep getting after it.