
#147 | From Failure to Triple Crown Champion | Kilian Korth on Mental Toughness & Never Quitting
About this episode
In this episode, Sally talks with Triple Crown champion, Kilian Korth, who shares the remarkable journey that shaped him—from childhood endurance adventures and collegiate swimming to devastating setbacks, career uncertainty, and becoming one of the world's best 200-mile ultrarunners. Together, Sally and Kilian dive deep into resilience, failure, identity, and why the greatest breakthroughs often come from embracing discomfort, letting go of control, and refusing to quit. Enjoy!
Other Episode Highlights :
- How Kilian's childhood adventures and competitive swimming shaped the mindset he races with today.
- The solo backpacking trip that changed his life and led him to ultrarunning.
- Why getting kicked off his college swim team became one of the best things that ever happened to him.
- Behind-the-scenes stories from Cocodona 250, including racing through a torn tendon.
- The difference between quitting and failing—and why failure is essential for growth.
- Why letting go of control can make you stronger in running and in life.
- The Stoic principles Kilian uses to stay calm when everything goes wrong.
- Why the best ultrarunners aren't always the most talented—they're the ones who can suffer the longest.
- Why your toughest days reveal who you really are.
- An honest conversation about social media, criticism, and staying true to yourself.
Follow Kilian :
Substack
IG
Watch his documentary, Forged in Failure , on August 1 @ 6pm MST
Want Kilian as your coach? Check here if he has spots available
All links, discounts, and ways to support the podcast are here.
Sally McRae Strength App
Choose Strong Book
Choose Strong Podcast YouTube
Sally McRae YouTube
Choose Strong Merch
Choose Strong Strava Group
Episode Sponsors :
- TUMBLE: Machine Washable Rugs, Made Better. For a limited time only, our listeners get 10% off + free shipping at http://tumbleliving.com/SALLY
- LAGOON SLEEP: Check out LagoonSleep.com/CHOOSESTRONG for 15% off. Code: CHOOSESTRONG
- BIOPTIMIZERS: Get 15% off at bioptimizers.com/STRONG Code: STRONG