#74 Josh Ross | Running Through Adversity, Embracing the Wild, & The Power of Storytelling
- Author
- Freetrail - Hosted by Troy Meadows
- Published
- Wed 02 Apr 2025
- Episode Link
- https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/themidpackerpod/episodes/74-Josh-Ross--Running-Through-Adversity--Embracing-the-Wild---The-Power-of-Storytelling-e31006t
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"Running became my therapy, my declaration that I was still here and still fighting."
In this episode, Troy chats with Josh Ross—a carpenter, hunter, writer, and ultra-runner who lives life with intention and grit.
Josh started running in 2019 with a half-mile jog and hasn't looked back. After growing up in the Adirondacks and reconnecting with nature in Wyoming, running became both a passion and a path to healing—especially after a leukemia diagnosis in 2020.
Instead of slowing down, Josh committed to a 103-day running streak through treatment and personal upheaval. He later tackled his first ultra, a 55K with nearly 10,000 feet of gain—winning his age group and finding community on the trail.
Outside of running, Josh writes the Front Porch Journal on Substack, where he shares reflections on simplicity, resilience, and the pursuit of a meaningful life. His writing has also appeared in Orion Magazine and High Country News.
This is a story of movement, mindset, and making peace with the messiness of life.
Motivational Takeaways:
Embrace Challenges: Josh's journey illustrates the power of confronting obstacles head-on and using them as catalysts for growth.
Find Balance: Navigating the demands of work, health, and personal passions requires intentionality and self-awareness.
Value Community: Sharing experiences through writing and conversation fosters connection and mutual support.
Relevant Links:
Josh's Substack: Front Porch Journal
Josh's Instagram: @blood_athlete
Partner Links:
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Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com
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MidPacker Pod Links: Instagram | Patreon | SubStack
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Keywords:
Josh Ross, ultra-running, leukemia survivor, Front Porch Journal, resilience, trail running, carpentry, hunter, writer, Substack, Adirondacks, Wyoming, Orion Magazine, High Country News
