"I  was sure I was going to die" - Kilian Jornet on taking risks, the power of nature, writing books and more

In this episode of the Runners World Podcast, hosts Rick Pearson and Ben Hobson interview legendary ultrarunner Kilian Jornet about his impressive feat of summiting all the alpine peaks over 4,000 meters within just 19 days. Jornet shares insights from his new book 'Beyond Endurance,' detailing how an injury sustained while climbing Everest led him to this project. He reflects on how such challenges provide a different emotional experience compared to racing, emphasizing the importance of exploration over mere achievements.

Jornet discusses the complexities of navigating the fast-paced world of social media, stating that context is crucial to understanding personal growth through adventures. He contrasts the instantaneous nature of social media with the introspective process of writing a book, which allows him to fully digest his experiences. The conversation touches upon the overwhelming beauty of nature and the lessons learned from navigating the Alps, alongside the alarming effects of climate change that he has witnessed firsthand.

The episode also covers Jornet's thoughts on parenting and instilling a love for nature in his children, his personal feelings regarding risk assessment in mountaineering, and his current recovery from knee surgery. He expresses excitement for future adventures and races while maintaining a strong respect for the risks inherent in his pursuits.