In the latest episode of Journey with Jake, it was a priveledge to speak with Kelton Shelley, an endurance athlete who has turned significant challenges into powerful motivation. Kelton’s experience of overcoming childhood leukemia not only transformed his perspective on life but also kickstarted his journey into endurance sports. He demonstrates that through the principle of ‘deposits’—meaning investments in oneself—individuals can achieve extraordinary things despite life’s obstacles. The essence of this episode is encapsulated in the story of Kelton’s life, highlighting resilience, determination, and the unyielding human spirit.
Kelton’s inspiring tale begins in West Point, Utah, where he grew up surrounded by a tight-knit community. As an active child, his early years were filled with various sports. However, his life took a dramatic turn when he was diagnosed with leukemia at the tender age of four, leading to a battle that lasted through several of his formative years. The resilience he demonstrated even at such a young age laid the foundation for his future achievements. Facing hospital stays filled with treatments, the unwavering support of his family, especially his mother and brother, played a significant role in his recovery. Their presence during his darkest days instilled a sense of hope that would carry him through. 
As Kelton grew older, he not only overcame his health battles but also cultivated a passion for sports. His journey into endurance racing began unexpectedly, stemming from his desire to excel in flag football. This enthusiasm for competition transformed into a rigorous workout regimen, and ultimately, his first Spartan race in 2021 marked the beginning of a new chapter. In this episode, Kelton narrates how he completed more than 30 races in just one year, sharing the mental and physical challenges he faced along the way.
One central concept that emerged from our discussion is Kelton’s philosophy that size and stature do not define one’s capabilities. Standing at only around 4’11”, he has consistently proven that determination can outmatch any physical limitations. This mindset has translated well into both his racing and his drumming career, where he plays in a heavy metal band. The dynamic experiences in music bring an additional layer of fulfillment in his life, creating balance alongside his athletic pursuits.
Kelton’s adventures in racing are not without hardship. He recounts a particularly trying race at the Dead Horse Ultra, where physical pain nearly brought him to the brink of quitting. Yet, he found strength in the belief that others were facing even tougher challenges. This realization pushed him forward, reminding us all that perseverance often emerges from facing discomfort. His ability to continuously confront obstacles showcases the growth mindset he embodies, which urges listeners to lean into discomfort as a means of building resilience.
As we wrapped up our conversation, Kelton shared what adventure means to him—continually pushing the boundaries of what we think we can achieve. His insight that what we perceive as our limits are only stepping stones is a fundamental takeaway that resonates deeply. Whether it’s racing, music, or simply navigating through life’s challenges, Kelton inspires us to see adventure as an ongoing process, one that involves both risks and learning opportunities. 
In melding his two passions—endurance racing and music—Kelton emphasizes the importance of maintaining a well-rounded life. With an upcoming 50-mile race and a half Ironman on the calendar, he illustrates that the journey toward achievement never truly ends.
This episode serves as a powerful reminder that life is less about the obstacles we face and more about how we navigate through them. Join us in celebrating the journey of Kelton Shelley—a true testament to the idea that we can flourish despite the odds against us.
