Who You Surround Yourself With Matters

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You Weren’t Meant to Run Alone

Hey Reader,

This past weekend, something special happened at the Prairie Spirit 100.

I was out there testing out my knee and pushing through another 100-mile race. I’ll probably speak to that more in a future podcast. I had some observations as I watched others around me.

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Sure, there were some strong runners. Some big, crazy, buckle-worthy efforts. Records broken. And plenty of grit on display. But what stood out most to me wasn’t just the fast miles logged—it was the support.

A group of Kansas ultrarunners—proudly known as the Buckle Heads—showed up for each other in a way that reminded me why I love this sport. They weren’t just out there for themselves. They were pacing, crewing, waiting at aid stations, and cheering each other on in the middle of the night. They didn’t just celebrate their own finishes—they celebrated each other’s.

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That kind of community is rare in society today. But it’s such a great part of our sport….and it’s powerful.

It reminded me of something I’ve seen time and time again in ultrarunning and life:
Who you surround yourself with determines how well—and how far—you go.

Your “Crew” Can Make or Break the Race

By “crew” I don’t mean your “race crew”. I’m talking about the people you hang with. I’m talking about your homies!

In ultrarunning, we know that the hardest miles usually come in the dark. When your legs are toast. When you start questioning why you’re even out there. When your mind whispers, “Just quit.”

And that’s when your crew matters most.

In life, it’s no different.

• When the road gets long…
• When progress feels slow…
• When you’re doubting your ability to finish what you started…

The voices around you make all the difference.

Are they reminding you of who you are—or who you used to be?
Are they pushing you forward—or holding you back?

Wisdom from Scripture

The Bible speaks directly to this truth:

• “Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.” – Proverbs 13:20
• “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.” – 1 Corinthians 15:33
• “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17

That can be encouraging… or a wake-up call.

The Buckle Heads Got It Right

What I saw this weekend wasn’t just a group of runners—it was a crew of encouragers, challengers, and uplifters.

They weren’t perfect, but they were present. They brought snacks, smiles, and strength when someone else needed it most.
They reminded each other, mile after mile:

That’s what we all need, right?

• Someone to pace us through the hard stuff
• Someone to tell us we’re not crazy for chasing our big goals
• Someone to meet us at the finish line with a hug, a laugh, a tear, or maybe just a chair!

This Week, Take a Look at Your Circle…your “Crew”

Ask yourself:

• Who am I surrounding myself with?
• Are they helping me grow, stretch, and stay focused?
• Are they sharpening me—or dulling my drive?
• And… who am I showing up for?

Because the truth is: you weren’t meant to run alone.

We were made for community.
We were made for people who sharpen us.
And we were made to be that for others, too.

This week, run with people who lift you up—and be someone who lifts others….on the trail and in life.

On the journey,

David