#291 Harnessing Hyper-Focus: Miguel Medina's ADHD and Ultrarunning

Our next guest, Miguel Medina, graciously welcomed us into his home nestled in the Santa Fe hills. As we settled into his garage, a space transformed into his sanctuary, we couldn't help but feel the powerful energy that emanates from this long-distance and obstacle runner. Miguel stands among a select few individuals on this planet who have pushed the limits of human endurance beyond 100 miles, defying the boundaries that most of us perceive as unattainable.Miguel's journey began in Torrance, California, where he was born into a family with diverse backgrounds. His father worked in TV production, and his parents' divorce led to a life marked by relocations between Mexico and California.About a decade ago, Miguel's path led him to Durango, a location that became his training ground and a hub for ultra-running athletes. During this time, he found love and companionship with his fiancée, who shares his home and his life's journey.Our conversation delved into the challenges of maintaining a deep passion for an art or sport while simultaneously nurturing a personal relationship. Miguel candidly shared the sacrifices that often accompany such dedication and the delicate balance required to harmonize these facets of life.One of the intriguing aspects Miguel discussed was how his ADHD, often considered a challenge, becomes an asset during training. The hyper-focus that accompanies his condition allows him to immerse himself completely, achieving a state of meditation that excludes all external distractions, even his own sense of self, during his grueling 24-hour runs.Miguel's journey also encountered a significant hurdle during his time as a student at UCLA, when he temporarily lost feeling in his legs and found himself on crutches and even a wheelchair. This unexpected twist, however, didn't deter him from pursuing his passion and rising to his remarkable accomplishments.Beyond his role as a professional athlete, Miguel also works as a medical interpreter, a career he deeply values. Helping people navigate challenging medical situations resonates with him, and he believes it's his calling to be a compassionate guide for those in need.Join us as we delve into Miguel's life, exploring the dedication, passion, and sacrifices that drive a professional athlete, and yet, at the same time, embrace the beauty and regularity of living a balanced life. For more of The Jar, visit:Website: https://www.thejar.live/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaTqB1dhDvl0Oh505ysdxTgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcast.thejarInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejar_podcast/Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not represent the views, beliefs or opinions of The Jar Podcast. Our goal is to provide a platform for everyone no matter what they believe, and we would like to continue to do that while making it clear our guests are not a representation of The Jar Podcast.