From Diagnosis to Ultra Triumph | Fireside Chat Guest: Steven Epifano
In the endurance world, we often hear stories of runners who overcome injuries, setbacks, or grueling race courses. But Steven Epifano’s journey is an about something bigger. He has gone from a health scare diagnosis to an ultra runner through the power of mindset. He was able to turn his limitations into a calling.
In 2013, Steven was diagnosed with a bicuspid aortic valve and an aortic aneurysm, a heart condition that could have sidelined him permanently. Doctors advised him to stick to light cardio and avoid anything too strenuous, like long-distance running. But when his son was born, Steven found a new reason to fight for his health. He committed to working with his condition rather than against it. Over time, with medical clearance, he slowly returned to running and completed the Philadelphia Marathon in 2018—a pivotal moment that reignited his passion and identity as a runner.
From Marathons to Mountain Miles
Steven didn’t stop at 26.2. He ventured into the world of ultrarunning, a decision that began with the Orange Curtains 50K and culminated in a humbling experience at the Black Mountain 50K, featuring 5,000 feet of elevation gain.
That race forced him to reevaluate not just his training, but his purpose. It sparked a desire to dive deeper into the science of endurance, leading him to become UESCA-certified in both running and ultrarunning coaching. What began as a personal journey evolved into a mission to educate and uplift others. Steven’s story shows us that every setback is just a setup for the next breakthrough.
Training by Effort, Not Ego
Steven’s philosophy is refreshingly simple but deeply effective: train by effort, not pace. Rather than obsess over speed or mileage, he helps athletes build their plans around perceived effort and time, focusing on consistency and sustainability.
He cautions against the comparison trap of platforms like Strava, reminding us that “comparison is the thief of all joy.” Instead of chasing someone else’s finish time, Steven advocates for tuning into your own signals—both physical and emotional. His method encourages runners to respect all distances, avoid burnout, and foster longevity in the sport.
ADVERTISEMENT
The Power of Community and Rest
Steven’s approach to training extends beyond the numbers. He believes in the community aspect of running—one where support, inclusivity, and shared struggle matter more than finish lines.
He also emphasizes the importance of rest and recovery, especially in a culture that glorifies overtraining. For Steven, becoming a better athlete isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what’s right for your body and mind at the right time. This mindset fosters not only peak performance but also long-term joy in the sport.
Running With Purpose: The Robin Ames Foundation
Beyond the races and coaching, Steven’s story has a deeper layer of meaning. He founded the Robin Ames Foundation, named in honor of his college friend who was killed by a distracted driver while cycling.
The foundation advocates for distracted driving awareness, supports legislative changes, and organizes trail events to fund education efforts. It’s a reflection of Steven’s belief that running isn’t just about personal achievement. He believes it’s about creating impact and honoring those who can’t run beside us.
Inspiration for Every Athlete
Steven Epifano’s journey is packed with valuable lessons for all athletes. From facing a health scare diagnosis head-on to coaching others with compassion and intention on their running and ultra running journeys. His story reminds us that endurance sports isn’t only about being the fastest. These sports are about becoming the strongest version of yourself which includes everything from mind, body, and soul.
So lace up, trust your pace, and remember: every step you take is part of a bigger journey.
ADVERTISEMENT