8. From Emergency Medicine to Ultra Running with John Goldfield

Welcome to another episode of Live Stoked, Lead Stoked. Today, we're diving into an inspiring conversation with John Goldfield, my former partner on the ambulance and someone who embodies the essence of living and leading stoked. John shares his journey from being a paramedic to a physician assistant, and now serving on the North Carolina medical board. We chat about John's unexpected foray into the world of running - evolving from a weight loss initiative to passionately engaging in ultra marathons and even governing a 100-mile race. We both reflect on our professional transitions, the struggles of burnout, and the personal growth that comes from embracing the toughest of situations. From our frontline experiences during the pandemic to the role of self-care in preventing burnout, we delve into the lessons learnt and the joy found in nature and camaraderie.

Meet John:

John Goldfield is a trail Runner, Physician Assistant, Harmonica player/singer, Dad to two amazing college students. He had a big life transition about 10 years ago and through it found himself and learned to like "me". Trail and Ultramarathon running has been a passion that he would have never imagined he'd be doing. Music has always been a part of his life and he’s thrilled to now be a part of a great group getting out and playing live every month or two. Recently John had yet another life transition when he decided to step back from the stressful world of Emergency Medicine to take a role at the NC Medical Board, and has found success in his life/work balance like he never thought possible. He’s involved in his running community through run groups and a volunteer staff position with the Umstead 100 (his local ultra race), as well as being named Ambassador for PATH projects clothing, Ultraspire hydration packs/lighting, and Ultrarunning Magazine. A mantra that has inspired him these past 10 years has been: "You can't be both awesome and negative... choose one"

In this episode we share:

John's shift from being a paramedic to a physician assistant and his move to North Carolina
His passion for ultra running and running six 100-mile races
The importance of embracing and handling difficult situations both in personal and professional life
The challenges both John and Sarah faced with career transitions and finding a new sense of self