Digital Social Hour: Episode #950 - "From Last Pick to Elite: How I Became a Top Ultra Runner" with Harvey Lewis

Release Date: December 5, 2024

Introduction

In episode #950 of the Digital Social Hour, host Sean Kelly welcomes Harvey Lewis, a seasoned ultra runner, entrepreneur, and dedicated teacher. With an impressive resume of competing in over 100 ultra races across 107 countries, Harvey shares his transformative journey from being the last pick on sports teams to becoming one of North America's top ultra runners. The conversation delves into topics ranging from the mental and physical demands of ultra running to insights on education, nutrition, and personal growth.

Early Beginnings and Discovery of Running

Harvey opens up about his initial foray into running during his teenage years, highlighting a pivotal moment that shifted his life's trajectory.

• Persistence and Transformation:

  "This is back when I was like, 15, 14, actually 13. Jumped into a marathon when I was in high school. And that moment just really changed my life because I discovered that if you're persistent, you can do anything on this planet."
  [00:02] Harvey Lewis

Despite not having immediate success—often finishing races at the back—Harvey emphasizes the importance of persistence and developing the right training formula over decades.

Evolution into Ultra Running

Transitioning from marathons to ultras, Harvey reflects on the growth of ultra running as a sport and its profound impact on personal development.

• Definition and Growth of Ultras:

  "Ultra is any race further than a marathon."
  [03:01] Harvey Lewis

He notes the exponential growth in ultra running participation since the 1990s, now encompassing races up to 200 miles and innovative formats like backyard ultras, where runners compete until only one remains.

• Inner Core and Mental Fortitude:

  "It removes all the layers that we have and it gets you to your inner core. You discover what your purpose is."
  [03:29] Harvey Lewis

Harvey discusses how ultra running strips away superficialities, forcing runners to confront their limits and discover their deeper motivations.

Challenges and Triumphs in Ultra Running

Harvey shares gripping accounts of some of his most challenging races and the lessons learned from them.

• Badwater 135 Experience:

  "I run 135 miles from the Badwater Basin to the portal, Mount Whitney... without that crew, like you wouldn't be able to."
  [04:41] Harvey Lewis

Participating in notoriously tough races like Badwater 135, Harvey highlights the critical role of support crews in enduring extreme conditions.

• World Record Achievement:

  "My best was last year I ran and set the world record... run like 250 miles in four and a half days."
  [07:00] Harvey Lewis

At 48 years old, Harvey set a world record in one of the most demanding ultra races, showcasing that age is no barrier with the right mindset and training.

• Backyard Ultra and Resilience:

  "People were going to the point where they just were total fatigued and couldn't walk back to their tent."
  [06:52] Harvey Lewis

In backyard ultra races, Harvey emphasizes mental resilience, focusing solely on the immediate task rather than the daunting total distance.

Nutrition: The Vegan Edge

A significant portion of Harvey's success is attributed to his strict vegan diet, which he has adhered to since 1996.

• Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet:

  "I eat all vegan foods... our obsession with animal protein and sugary foods is really what's killing Americans."
  [12:59] Harvey Lewis

Harvey argues that a vegan diet enhances recovery and performance, citing examples of top ultra runners like Jim Walmsley who thrive on plant-based nutrition.

• Overcoming Challenges While Traveling:

  "I always bring a couple snacks with me in my bags... I pulled up on my phone... I'm not gonna eat this stuff."
  [16:03] Harvey Lewis

His disciplined approach to nutrition extends to international travels, where he seeks out healthy options despite limited availability.

Teaching Career and Educational Insights

Beyond running, Harvey serves as a teacher, imparting financial literacy and AP Government to high school students. He offers a unique perspective on education, blending his athletic discipline with his teaching philosophy.

• Integrating Character and Curriculum:

  "I think with teaching today is like, I don't only think about my curriculum... trying to help kids grow into whatever dreams they wish to pursue."
  [44:03] Harvey Lewis

Harvey emphasizes the importance of character development alongside academic instruction, striving to nurture well-rounded individuals.

• Advocating for Financial Literacy:

  "Every single state must have financial literacy in their curriculum. It's as important as health."
  [52:05] Harvey Lewis

He passionately advocates for mandatory financial education in schools, believing it equips students with essential life skills.

• Challenges in Public Education:

  "A lot of kids come to school with chips and soda... how can you learn math without adequate nutrition?"
  [69:10] Harvey Lewis

Harvey critiques the nutritional shortcomings in schools, linking poor diet to diminished academic performance and overall well-being.

Mental Health and Personal Growth

Harvey intertwines his experiences as an ultra runner and an educator to discuss the broader themes of mental health and personal development.

• Therapeutic Aspects of Running:

  "Running home, it's gone... It's like meditation."
  [61:10] Harvey Lewis

For Harvey, running serves as a form of meditation, helping him maintain emotional balance and resilience both in races and in the classroom.

• Overcoming Personal Struggles:

  "That marathon changed everything for me because I found the formula. Persistence and work ethic can achieve anything."
  [63:43] Harvey Lewis

Reflecting on his academic struggles, Harvey credits his running journey for instilling the persistence and work ethic that transformed his life.

Contemporary Issues in Education and Society

The conversation shifts to current debates surrounding education policy, curriculum content, and societal misconceptions.

• Curriculum Debates and Misinformation:

  "I don't understand how banning AP African American History would injure students' feelings."
  [50:00] Harvey Lewis

Harvey expresses confusion over recent legislative actions targeting educational content, advocating for comprehensive and truthful historical education.

• Impact of Nutrition on Learning:

  "Kids need adequate nutrition to excel academically and mentally."
  [69:10] Harvey Lewis

He links proper nutrition to enhanced cognitive function and academic success, urging systemic changes in school meal programs.

Future Goals and Closing Thoughts

As the episode nears its end, Harvey and Sean discuss future aspirations and the ongoing pursuit of excellence.

• Podcasting Milestones:

  "I want to break the world record for the number of podcast episodes... top three on Apple for overall shows."
  [65:05] Sean Kelly

Sean shares his ambitious goals for his rapidly growing podcast, aiming for widespread recognition and influence.

• Longevity and Continuous Improvement:

  "I’ve been running for almost 28 years and I'm still looking to compete at the highest level."
  [68:02] Harvey Lewis

Harvey emphasizes the importance of continual self-improvement and adapting strategies to maintain peak performance over the decades.

Conclusion

Episode #950 of Digital Social Hour offers an inspiring deep dive into Harvey Lewis's life as an elite ultra runner and educator. His unwavering dedication, vegan lifestyle, and commitment to personal and professional growth serve as a testament to what persistence and passion can achieve. The conversation not only highlights the grueling aspects of ultra running but also underscores the critical interplay between physical health, mental resilience, and educational advocacy.

Notable Quotes:

• "If you're persistent, you can do anything on this planet."
  [00:02] Harvey Lewis

• "Ultra running removes all the layers and gets you to your inner core."
  [03:29] Harvey Lewis

• "Movement is critical, whether that's swimming, yoga, walking."
  [12:53] Harvey Lewis

• "The world’s obsession with animal protein and sugary foods is what's killing Americans."
  [12:59] Harvey Lewis

• "Persistence and work ethic can achieve anything."
  [63:43] Harvey Lewis

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of Harvey Lewis's insights and experiences as shared on Digital Social Hour, providing listeners with a vivid portrayal of the journey from humble beginnings to elite status in ultra running, intertwined with meaningful reflections on education and personal well-being.