The Rise of Holly Ranson: The Fire Within

Follow Holly at Western States this weekend 27-28 June 2026!

Follow Holly on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hollyrranson/

What does it take to become one of the best ultrarunners in the world?

Talent?

Genetics?

Mental toughness?

After spending months speaking with the people closest to Holly Ranson, I discovered a very different answer.

In this special documentary episode, you'll hear from the people who have witnessed Holly's journey from the front row:

• Nic – fiancé, training partner and crew chief
• Mel – lifelong friend
• Phil Gore – Backyard Ultra World Champion
• Brent Ford – ultrarunner, commentator and podcast host
• Shaun Kaesler – race director and ultrarunner

Together, they reveal the person behind the performances.

The woman who quietly went from working multiple jobs and battling injury after injury to becoming one of Australia's most accomplished ultrarunners, breaking Australian records and producing one of the greatest performances ever by an Australian woman at the 24-Hour World Championships in France.

But this isn't really a story about running.

It's a story about humility.

Persistence.

Sacrifice.

Friendship.

Character.

And the relentless pursuit of what might be possible.

As this episode is released, Holly is preparing to take on one of the most iconic races in the world – the Western States Endurance Run 100 miler in California. After hearing the stories in this documentary, you'll understand why so many people believe her best is still ahead of her.

Whether you're a runner or not, I think you'll find something of yourself in Holly's story.

Because at its heart, this documentary asks a question that applies to all of us:

What if the best chapter of your story hasn't happened yet?

Special thanks to Holly Ranson, Nic French, Mel Clark, Phil Gore, Brent Ford and Shaun Kaesler for generously sharing their stories and helping bring this documentary to life.

Enjoy!