Ep. 20 The Extra Mile: Overcoming Ulcerative Colitis to Conquer the World Marathon Challenge

In this episode of the Programming Lions Podcast, guest Jonathan Negretti shares his inspiring story of completing the World Marathon Challenge, which involves running seven marathons in seven days on all seven continents. This feat was made even more impressive as Negretti is the first person in the world to accomplish it with an ostomy, due to his struggle with ulcerative colitis. 

Along his journey, Negretti faced physical and mental adversity, from extreme weather to personal injuries. He also shares how this challenge helped him realize his strength, resilience, and capacity for overcoming the seemingly impossible and encourages others to step out of their comfort zones and take on their own challenges.

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YouTube link: https://youtu.be/XqlatTAau8A

00:00 Introduction 

00:58 Jonathan's Background and the 777 Challenge

02:39 Ulcerative Colitis and Surgery

04:10 From Hospital Bed to Marathon

04:36 The Decision to Run the World Marathon Challenge

05:32 Training and Preparations for the Challenge

05:57 Running for a Cause: Raising Awareness and Funds for IBD

09:52 The World Marathon Challenge

12:39 The First Marathon: Cape Town

13:34 The Second Marathon: Antarctica

19:28 The Journey Continues: From Australia to Dubai 

22:25 Running in Extreme Cold

23:15 Jet Lag 

23:35 The Power of Positivity

25:09 Running in Dubai

27:02 The Spanish Marathon: A Test of Endurance

28:24 The Brutal Heat of Brazil

30:03 The Final Stretch: Miami Marathon

35:23 Reflections and Future Challenges

39:33 Rapid Fire Questions

41:09 Conclusion