Stefan Ozich Ran The Length of NZ TWICE!
Episode Description
Stefan Ozich is now part of a very small group of guests to make a return appearance on the podcast.
ICYMI, Stefan first appeared on the podcast towards the end of 2024. At the time he was about to embark on a jaw-dropping run- the length of New Zealand on the TeAraroa trail. Twice. Cape Reinga to Bluff and all the way back again. That’s 6000km. A handful of people have run the T.A trail. Stefan is the only person to do it twice.
And he did it with the goal of raising as much money as possible for a men’s mental health charity.
In this episode, we explore the incredible journey of his 114 days.
From the motivations behind his journey, including personal losses and mental health advocacy, to the physical and mental challenges he faced.
Stefan shares insights into endurance running, recovery, and the importance of gratitude.
The conversation also touches on the dynamics of crew support, the daily routines that kept him going, the profound interactions with others along the way, reflections on personal growth and much much more.
Stefan is a unique individual. He can put him mind to daunting physical and mental challenges then accomplish them with a smile on his face.
I loved connecting with him Again for the podcast and I hope you guys do too.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome back Stefan Ozich 11:47 Post-Event Reflections and Recovery 22:02 Daily Routine and Nutrition 29:54 Crew Dynamics and Support 41:02 Injury and Resilience 44:16 Memorable Interactions on the Trail 52:00 Emotional Highs and Lows 59:05 Reflections on Accomplishment and Loss 01:03:01 Looking Ahead: Future Endeavors
Brief Summary
Stefan Ozich shares his experience running the Tiara Trail, raising $231,000 for mental health awareness, and reflects on the emotional journey of endurance running.
Key points
- Raising Awareness for Mental Health. Stefan discusses his motivation for running the trail after losing loved ones to mental health struggles.
- Fundraising Success. Stefan raised $231,000 for mental health awareness, reflecting on the significance of this achievement.
- David Goggins' Philosophy. Goggins believes listening to audio while running is cheating, emphasizing focus instead.
- The Struggle to Stay Positive. Every morning was a battle against the urge to quit, especially near the end.
- Nutrition on the Run. Maintaining energy was crucial, leading to an unconventional diet during the run.
- Crew Dynamics. The relationship with the crew can make or break the experience. "We got too close."
Ask about Dom Harvey
Episode highlights
- Raising Awareness for Mental HealthStefan discusses his motivation for running the trail after losing loved ones to mental health struggles.“Ultimately, my brother took his life...”5:01May 14, 2025
- Fundraising SuccessStefan raised $231,000 for mental health awareness, reflecting on the significance of this achievement.“It’s still a significant amount of money that can make some change.”6:31May 14, 2025
- David Goggins' PhilosophyGoggins believes listening to audio while running is cheating, emphasizing focus instead.“"Listening to shit's cheating."”17:45May 14, 2025
- The Struggle to Stay PositiveEvery morning was a battle against the urge to quit, especially near the end.“"Yeah, [ __ ] this. What am I doing out here?"”20:06May 14, 2025
- Nutrition on the RunMaintaining energy was crucial, leading to an unconventional diet during the run.“"Dude, I had pasta. I had white bread. I had French toast."”27:21May 14, 2025
- Crew DynamicsThe relationship with the crew can make or break the experience. "We got too close."“We were so dialed.”35:06May 14, 2025
- Injury StrugglesFacing chronic injuries during the journey, but pushing through. "This is why I’m doing it."“I was in excruciating pain day four.”40:35May 14, 2025
- Rescue MissionA harrowing experience of being rescued after getting caught in a storm. "This is serious [ __ ] now."“It was real deal [ __ ] like thinking I’m going to die.”46:34May 14, 2025





