Trail Runner Nation
Trail Runner Nation is a podcast dedicated to the trail running community, offering insights and advice for runners of all levels. Episodes cover topics such as race nutrition, pacing strategies, and mental focus, featuring interviews with respected members of the trail running world.
Episodes
EP 788: The Hardest Part Wasn't the Race
Marc Hopkins, author of Hard Things, set out to write a book about running the Bigfoot 200, but what emerged was something much deeper. In this conversation, he shares how endurance running became the lens through which he uncovered old stories about self-worth, fear, identity, and the belief that one more finish line would finally make him enough. Together, we explore why runners chase hard thin
EP 787: Aging as an Athlete- What Climbers Know About Longevity That Runners Need
What if getting older doesn't mean doing less, but doing it better? In this installment of the Aging as an Athlete series, legendary ultrarunner Krissy Moehl welcomes longtime climber and Patagonia ambassador Kate Rutherford for a conversation about longevity, purpose, and evolving with age. Kate shares how decades of climbing taught her that technical skill, efficiency, and joy can eventually out
EP 786: Everything You Need to Know Before Western States
Western States is more than a 100-mile race. For many ultrarunners, it's the unofficial holiday that defines the season. In this annual Trail Runner Nation tradition, Andy Jones-Wilkins returns to break down the 2026 Western States field, explain the stories behind the biggest contenders, and help everyday runners understand who to watch when race day arrives. Along the way, the conversation explo
EP 785: Why Fitness isn't Enough
What separates great ultrarunners from everyone else isn't just fitness. It's how they think. In this conversation, legendary coach and runner Ian Sharman shares the philosophy behind his new book The Art of Ultrarunning, explaining why execution, adaptability, and purpose matter just as much as training miles. Through stories from his Grand Slam of Ultrarunning record, hard-earned racing mistake
EP 784: The Future of Trail Running Is Being Decided Right Now
Tim Tollefson returns to Trail Runner Nation for a wide-ranging conversation about what makes trail running special and what happens as the sport continues to grow. Using a "Wheel of Trail Running" format, the discussion lands on two big topics: cultivating the next generation of trail stewards and the ongoing professionalization of trail running. Tim shares how his work with Runners for Public La
EP 783: The Supplement Runners Should Consider
Creatine has long been boxed into the weight-room world, but this episode opens the door to a much bigger conversation for trail runners and endurance athletes. Creatine is something surprisingly simple, "right within the reach of a glass," that may help athletes become stronger, faster, healthier, and more resilient. We discuss with Dr. Dan Pardi, Chief Health Officer at Qualia Life Sciences, whe
EP 782: Fear Isn't the Enemy
Writer and ultrarunner Gaël Dutigny joins us to talk about his Ultra Running Magazine article, "Fear Isn't a Weakness," and why fear may be one of the most misunderstood tools in endurance sports. Gaël shares how, even after finishing UTMB four times and racing in deserts, jungles, mountains, and even Iraq during wartime, fear still shows up before and during big efforts. The conversation reframes
EP 781: The Finish Line That Changed Everything
ode we are joined by Brian Morrison, author of Given to Fly: A Story of Tragedy, Triumph, and Realization at Western States 100, about one of the most unforgettable finishes in ultrarunning history. Brian takes listeners back to the 2006 Western States 100, where he was leading the race before collapsing on the Placer High School track just steps from victory, later being disqualified because he r
EP 780: The Woman Who Ran 600 Miles
Megan Eckert returns to Trail Runner Nation after an extraordinary stretch in endurance racing, including a third place at Cocadona 250, setting a women's world record at Big's Backyard Ultra and becoming the first woman to run more than 600 miles in six days. She explains why backyard ultras are less about speed and more about solving the strange little puzzle of time, sleep, food, heat, pacing,
EP 779: The Hidden Performance Cost of Sun Damage
Returning guest, coach Colleen Miracle, joins us to talk about something many trail runners know they should care about but often ignore: sun protection. The conversation is based on Colleen's UltraSignup article "Why Ultrarunners Face a Higher Risk of Skin Cancer and Decreased Running Performance." Colleen shares her own experience with stage-one skin cancer on her lip, which began as what looked
EP 778: Audio Magazine- The Run That Changes Your Brain
Audio Magazine episode! Long-time friend, Warren Pole joins us to trade ideas, stories, and thought-provoking topics from the world of endurance sports. We talk about everything from whether races should ban in-race filming to the surprising ways ultrarunning might temporarily damage red blood cells and what that means for recovery. Warren brings a sharp perspective on long-term health, framing r
EP 777: Inside the Toughest Era of Ultrarunning
In this episode, we sit down with ultrarunning legend Hal Koerner and Ian Sharman to go beyond the race results and into the stories hidden between the aid stations. Hal reflects on the gritty era of ultrarunning when gear was simpler, races were rougher, and success often came down to who could stay calm while everything else unraveled. The conversation explores their approach to downhill running
EP 776: Build Stronger Feet Before They Fail
In this follow-up conversation with Dr. Tonya Olson, we shift from fixing foot problems to preventing them by building stronger, more resilient feet before race day disaster strikes. Tonya explains that the biggest mistake runners make is not paying attention to their feet until something hurts, even though their feet have been quietly sending signals for months, like tiny grumpy trail prophets. T
EP 775: I Spent $4,500 on One Race
What are some of the real costs of running an ultra? In this episode, ultra runner and coach Colleen Miracle talks about this, and it turns out the race entry is just the first pebble in the avalanche. We discuss the hidden expenses that pile up around an A-race: travel, nutrition, coaching, shoes, gear, hotels, rental cars, and the tiny financial gremlins that quietly multiply in the dark corn
EP 774: Aging As An Athlete- The Truth About Longevity in Running
What if your best performance isn't behind you… it's just different now? In this Aging as an Athlete episode, Krissy Moehl joins again as co-host in a discussion with Bryce Thatcher. Bryce Thatcher is a trail-running pioneer and founder of UltrAspire, who has spent over 40 years innovating hydration gear while living and embodying a lifelong commitment to mountain running and human-powered adve
EP 773: Why We Choose to Suffer (And Love It)
In this episode, we are joined again by coach Adam Kimble to explore the book, The Sweet Spot: The Pleasures of Suffering and the Search for Meaning by Paul Bloom, and discuss why endurance athletes voluntarily seek discomfort in pursuit of meaning, growth, and satisfaction. We discuss the concept of "benign masochism," highlighting how pain and pleasure are deeply intertwined in long races and ha
EP 772: Simple Running. Powerful Living
In this episode, we are joined by Michael Miller to discuss his book Run Like a Rarámuri : Stories and Wisdoms from the Sierra Tarahumara and Running Long and his deep connection to the Indigenous Rarámuri "running people" of Mexico's Sierra Tarahumara. Drawing on years spent living among the community, Michael shares how running is woven into their social fabric as a celebration of resilience, n
EP 771: Aging as an Athlete: Mindset, Longevity, and the Love of Running
In this episode of Trail Runner Nation's Aging as an Athlete series, along with Krissy Moehl, we welcome elite ultrarunner and therapist Darcy Piceu for a thoughtful conversation about longevity in endurance sports. Drawing on more than two decades of racing at the highest level, Darcy explains that there is no "magic pill" for staying in the sport long term, emphasizing instead the importance of
EP 770: Racing the Clock: Life at the Cutoff
In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we sit down with filmmaker Dylan Harris to talk about his powerful new film, The Cut-Off. Instead of following the front of the pack, the film shines a light on the runners fighting the clock at aid stations, chasing the courage it takes simply to continue. Dylan shares the inspiration behind the project, the stories that moved him most, and what the back-of
EP 769: Is Your Watch Lying? The Truth About VO₂ Max and Real Fitness
In this episode, we are joined by Cliff Pittman, Coaching Development Director for CTS. We take a practical look at VO₂ max and what it really means for everyday runners. We explore whether this popular performance metric is truly essential, how much it matters for trail and ultra athletes, and where it can be misunderstood or overemphasized. The conversation cuts through the numbers to focus on
EP 768: Is Muscle the Missing Piece in Your Training?
In this episode, Alex Hutchinson rejoins Trail Runner Nation discuss why muscle is the real engine behind endurance, performance, and long-term health, especially as runners get older. The conversation explores how and why we lose muscle over time, why this decline matters for speed, resilience, and injury prevention, and the encouraging truth that much of it is reversible. Alex explains the cri
EP 767: Duct Tape Is Dead: Modern Foot Care for Long Miles
Discover proven strategies to prevent foot issues and optimize your performance in ultra running. Dr. Tanya Olson joins us to share expert insights on foot care routines, products, and techniques that keep feet healthy and injury-free. Key Topics: The importance of planning a comprehensive foot care strategy before race day Modern products and methods for preventing blisters, maceration, and toen
EP 766: Running Advice Under Fire - A Point-Counterpoint Debate
This episode brings back Trail Runner Nation's Point–Counterpoint format, with coaches Ian Sharman, Annie Hughes, Jeff Browning, and Trish Ahrends stepping into the debate arena. Responding to listener feedback, this episode leans hard into our long-held "experiment of one" philosophy. Each coach is assigned a position and must defend it, whether they personally agree or not. Training myths, sacre
EP 765: Aging as an Athlete - Quinn Brett on Redefining Life as an Athlete After Injury
In this powerful episode, we sit down with our special co-host, Krissy Moehl, and with climber, endurance athlete, and paraplegic adventurer Quinn Brett for a conversation that stretches far beyond sport. We explore what happens when the body changes, identity is shaken, and resilience becomes a daily practice. Quinn's story is one of dramatic transformation. Once a climber, guide, and search-and-
EP 764: From Fringe to Mainstream: The State of Trail Running in 2026
What happens when a once-fringe sport starts to go mainstream — and can it grow without losing its soul? In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we sit down with Jamil Coury, founder and CEO of Aravaipa Running and publisher of UltraRunning Magazine, to explore the State of Trail and Ultrarunning in 2026. Jamil shares a 30,000-foot view of how the sport has evolved over the past decade, from parti
EP 763: The Most Underrated Training Skill: Consistency
This is a previously recorded episode of Trail Runner Nation, but its message remains just as relevant today. In this conversation, we're joined by Adam Kimble to explore the often-overlooked power of consistency in running and training. Instead of chasing perfect workouts or peak moments, we discuss how small, repeatable efforts add up over time to build durability, confidence, and long-term prog
EP 762: From Webster to Singletrack: The Trail Runner Dictionary Game
Today's episode is all about having some fun on the trail. We are joined by Andy Jones-Wilkins and Katie Asmuth, and we're playing the classic "dictionary game" — taking random words from a 1931 Webster's Collegiate Dictionary and turning them into something every trail runner can relate to. It's playful, a little ridiculous at times, and guaranteed to make you laugh while nodding along. Lace up,
EP 761: Take This 33-Question Test to See What Kind of Trail Runner You Really Are
In this lighthearted, game-show–style episode, we try and answer the age-old question: Am I really a trail runner? Audience participation is a must as we work through 33 humorous and painfully relatable statements covering gear habits, weather and suffering, aid stations, trail culture, injuries, and even bathroom logistics. You keep score to discover whether you're a noob, veteran, grizzled trail
EP 760: No Bib, No Finish Line: Iron Mike Wardian's Wildest Running Adventures
Iron Mike Wardian returns to Trail Runner Nation for a conversation that celebrates running beyond race bibs and finish lines. From running across the United States to circumnavigating islands and turning family vacations into adventure runs, Mike shares the stories that shaped his love for exploration and curiosity. Along the way, he recounts funny and unexpected moments—wildlife encounters, smal
EP 759: Stop Running Yourself Into the Death March (Do This Instead)
In this episode, we explore one of the most overlooked performance tools in ultrarunning: not running. Coach and elite ultrarunner Ian Sharman explains how active recovery, power-hiking, and weight-vest hiking help athletes build durability, reduce muscle damage, conserve glycogen, and avoid the dreaded late-race death march. We break down why power-hiking is a smart performance strategy used by e
EP 758: Ox Blood to Aid Stations: The Wild Evolution of Endurance Nutrition
In this episode, we talk with exercise scientist Dr. Nick Tiller, author of the Ultrarunning Magazine article "Protein While Racing, Training Runs to Predict Performance & Progressing to Ultra." Starting from the wild story of Milo of Croton—an ancient athlete who drank ox blood and ate raw animal flesh—we trace how endurance nutrition has swung from carb-loading to fat-adaptation and ask where pr
EP 757: Thanksgiving on the Trails: Entrees, Sides & Sweet Treats of Running
Today we're cooking up something a little different—a Trail Runner Nation–style feast inspired by the U.S. holiday of Thanksgiving. Just like families gather to celebrate gratitude and good food, we're gathering around the podcast table to share the habits, ideas, and rituals that make us better runners. And who else should be joining us be A. Jizzle Wizzle, Coach Andy Jones-Wilkins. In this playf
EP 756: Aging as an Athlete- Smarter, Stronger, Longer
In this seventh installment of Aging as an Athlete series, Scott, Don, and Krissy sit down with elite ultrarunner and longtime coach Ian Sharman to explore what it really means to run well as the years go by. Ian shares insights from 20+ years of racing—including a marathon course record he set after turning 45—and lessons learned from coaching athletes across all ages and abilities. He offers a p
EP 755: The Breakthroughs Hiding in Plain Sight
In this episode, we sit down with the new book Running Breakthroughs author Floris Gierman to explore what truly drives joy, consistency, and long-term progress in running. Floris shares the patterns he's uncovered after years of conversations with athletes, coaches, and researchers—stories of everyday runners who transformed their lives through simple habits, sustainable training, and a kinder re
EP 754: Aging as an Athlete: The Power of Adaptation
What does it take to keep running strong from your teens into your 90s? In this new episode of The Aging Athlete series, Krissy Moehl co-hosts as we sit down with Shawn Cheshire to talk about her journey through adversity as she is aging and how to adapt to life's circumstances, making her "obstacles the way". Shawn Cheshire is a blind athlete who has achieved remarkable feats in biking and trail
EP 753: Point–Counterpoint: Trail Truths Debated
In this "Point–Counterpoint" episode, we are joined by coaches from two teams—Sharman Ultra (Ian Sharman & Ellie Greenwood) and Giddy Up Ultra (Jeff Browning & Trish Arends)—to debate hot-button trail topics. They tackle gadgets vs. going by feel (most land on the fence, with Scott pledging a watch-free run), active recovery vs. full rest (consensus: gentle movement wins "if done well"), and compe
EP 752: Train Slow, Race Fast and Train Your Brain: Maffetone Returns
Dr. Phil Maffetone returns to revisit the MAF Method—training by low heart rate (≈180 minus age)—with Don sharing how it saved his a 100-mile race. Phil explains why most endurance performance is aerobic and how building that system (plus cleaning up diet) beats "no-pain-no-gain." The episode pivots to his new brain-health research: refined carbs and excess body fat can impair the brain, but the g
EP 751: "It IS Your Day" with The Queen, Meghan Canfield
Have you ever heard a runner drop out of a race and say, "It just wasn't my day"? Well, Meghan Canfield—known to the trail world as The Queen—has something to say about that. She argues, "Of course it's your day! It's certainly not anyone else's." In this episode, Meghan joins us to explore what that really means. Inspired by her recent article in UltraRunning Magazine titled "Adventure of Life,"
EP 750: Aging Athlete- How to Fuel Your Runs at Different Ages
What does it take to keep running strong from your teens into your 90s? In this sixth episode of The Aging Athlete series, Krissy Moehl co-hosts as we sit down with Meredith Terranova to discuss the fuel behind performance and longevity. • In past Aging Athlete episodes, we've explored how to train smarter as we age, not harder—covering topics like ◦ adapting your training plans, ◦ hormone opt
EP 749: The Pendulum of Running-Lessons from 19 Episodes with Dr. Mark Cucuzzella
Dr. Mark Cucuzzella returns for his 19th visit (first joined us in 2012) to unpack the "pendulum swings" in running— from minimalist to maximal shoes, handhelds to hydration vests, and data-free runs to tech-heavy biometrics. He shares how his natural-footwear ethos (and Two Rivers Treads) started before the trend, why different terrains and athletes may benefit from different shoes, and why rot
EP 748: Endurance Meets History: Honoring California's First Pioneer Crossing
In this episode, we welcome back Bob Crowley and Tim Twietmeyer, co-founders of History Expeditions, who've shown us how endurance fitness can unlock incredible adventures beyond racing. This fall, they and a team of veteran endurance athletes will bring history to life with a never-before-attempted 120-mile horseback crossing of the Sierra Nevada, retracing the Stephens-Townsend-Murphy Party's pa
EP 747: Aging Athlete - Building Strength with Jeff Browning
What does it take to keep running strong from your teens into your 90s? In this fifth episode of The Aging Athlete series, Krissy Moehl co-hosts as we sit down with Jeff Browning—coach, ultrarunner, and one of the sport's most consistent and ageless performers. Jeff shares how he has adapted his training across decades, balancing intensity with recovery to stay competitive deep into his 50s. He ta
EP 746: Five Biomarkers That Can Affect Your Running
In this rerun episode, we dig into the science behind what's happening inside our bodies with registered sports dietitian Ashley Reaver. Ashley highlights five key biomarkers that endurance athletes should pay attention to—explaining why they matter, what healthy ranges look like, and what steps we can take if our numbers are off. From performance to recovery, these biomarkers influence how well w
EP 745: The Overlooked Training Hacks That Make You Faster and Healthier
In this episode, we sit down with Ben Rosario, Head Coach and Executive Director of Hoka Northern Arizona Elite Team, aka Hoka NAZ Elite, to uncover how professional runners train—and how everyday runners can apply the same strategies. Ben shares why success isn't only about big workouts, but also about the fundamentals: getting enough sleep, fueling properly, and building strength without needing
EP 744: Aging Athlete - Mindset and Motivation
What does it take to keep running strong from your teens into your 90s? Welcome to The Aging Athlete, a new Trail Runner Nation mini-series co-hosted by ultrarunning icon Krissy Moehl. Every 5 to 6 weeks, we'll dive into what it looks like to grow older in this sport we love—exploring how to train smarter, fuel better, recover more intentionally, and stay motivated through the decades. In this fou
EP 743: The Birth of the First Sports Nutrition Bar
What if one simple idea could transform the way athletes fuel their bodies? In this episode, we explore the birth of the very first sports nutrition bar back in the 1980s—a product that forever changed performance and recovery. Can you guess what it is? You'll hear the story behind its creation from one of its creators, Jennifer Maxwell, from the spark of inspiration to the trial-and-error experim
EP 742: Training the Panic Out: How Astronaut-Level Preparation Builds Confidence on the Trail
What do launching into orbit and starting a grueling mountain ultra have in common? More than you might think. In this episode, we draw from Ryan Holiday's The Obstacle Is the Way and NASA's astronaut training to explore how familiarity—not bravado—builds confidence on the trail. Just as astronauts rehearsed every scenario to make the unknown feel routine, trail runners can train for the unexpect
EP 741: Trail Runner Nation: A Journey Through Time
In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we reflect on the evolution of trail running and the Trail Runner Nation podcast over the past 14 years. We reflect on some clips from our very first episode, Podcast Numero Uno, published in November of 2011. We discuss the changes in trail running gear, the importance of community and knowledge sharing, and the technological advancements that have shaped
EP 740: The Aging Athlete - Hormone Health
What does it mean to be a trail runner in your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s—or even your 70s? How do years of pounding dirt, chasing summits, and chasing goals shape our bodies, minds, and identities? Welcome to The Aging Athlete, a new Trail Runner Nation mini-series co-hosted by ultrarunning icon Krissy Moehl. Every 5 to 6 weeks, we'll dive into what it looks like to grow older in this sport we love—explo
EP 739: Effortless Efficiency: Biomechanics in Running
What if the key to becoming a stronger, more resilient runner isn't about pushing harder, but moving smarter? In this episode, we're joined by Samuel Stow, ultramarathoner and movement coach behind Pop Running. With a background in aerospace engineering, Sam blends biomechanics, breathwork, and mindfulness to help runners reconnect with their core, activate their glutes, and move with intention. W
EP 738: The Comfort Crisis - Reclaiming Happiness
Over two years ago, we introduced the concept of Misogi—doing something so challenging it changes you—through Michael Easter's book The Comfort Crisis - Discomfort to Reclaim Your Wild, Happy and Healthy Self. Now, we're revisiting it with fresh eyes and deeper insights. In a world built for convenience, what does it truly mean to seek out discomfort? And how can that mindset shape us into strong
EP 737: Cutting Through the BS
Join us as we have an insightful conversation with renowned coach Ian Sharman. We discuss how to navigate the world of running advice with a critical eye and how his coaching philosophy has evolved. How to identify credible running advice and avoid misinformation. Find out more about Ian at Sharman Ultra Coaching Episode Sponsors: Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off Ketone IQ, Used by Tour d
EP 736: Unlocking Endurance from the Neck Up
In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, cognitive neuroscientist and endurance athlete Dr. Scott Frey reveals how brain training can unlock new levels of performance for trail and ultrarunners. He explains that while most athletes focus on the physical, it's often the brain that sets the limits—through perceived effort, cognitive fatigue, and pain signals. Dr. Frey introduces his Brain Endurance S
EP 735: The Aging Athlete-Exercise Physiology
What does it mean to be a trail runner in your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s—or even your 70s? How do years of pounding dirt, chasing summits, and chasing goals shape our bodies, minds, and identities? Welcome to The Aging Athlete, a new Trail Runner Nation mini-series co-hosted by ultrarunning icon Krissy Moehl. Every 5 to 6 weeks, we'll dive into what it looks like to grow older in this sport we love—explo
EP 734: TRN Audio Magazine: The Dirt, The Grit, The Glory
Can you get too much AJW? This episode might answer that question. After last week's Western States 100 Preview and Prognostication, Andy rejoins us for Audio Magazine to discuss a pouperi of topics related to trail running. AJW brings his trademark passion and perspective. We swap stories, debate hot takes, and share trifling and inconsequential topics we have found on the interwebs. Whether
EP 733: 2025 Western States 100 Preview and Prognostications
In this annual episode, we talk about the 2025 Western States 100 with AJW and Katie Asmuth. We talk about the race's rich history, the evolving competition in both the men's and women's fields, and how course knowledge and pacing strategies can make or break a runner's day. The discussion highlights the depth of talent, the impact of weather conditions, and the notable absences that open the door
EP 732: The Journey Back: Runners After Joint Replacement
In this episode, we explore the challenges and possibilities of running after joint replacement. Joined by athletes Magda Boulet and Bob Crowley, and orthopedic surgeon Dr. John Diana, we discuss personal stories of pain, surgery, and recovery. The conversation highlights how proper medical support, strength training, and rehabilitation can enable runners to return to the sport—even after undergoi
EP 731: Ice, Mind, Body - The Ice Bath Effect
Can three minutes in freezing water reduce inflammation, boost testosterone, and improve your relationships? We talk with Dr. Thomas Seager, co-founder of Morozko, about the powerful impact of cold plunge therapy on physical and mental wellness. Dr. Seager shares how cold exposure helped him overcome a midlife crisis and prostate health concerns, offering both scientific insight and personal stori
EP 730: The Aging Athlete Series - Introduction
What does it mean to be a trail runner in your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s—or even your 70s? How do years of pounding dirt, chasing summits, and chasing goals shape our bodies, minds, and identities? Welcome to The Aging Athlete, a new Trail Runner Nation mini-series co-hosted by ultrarunning icon Krissy Moehl. Every 5 to 6 weeks, we'll dive into what it looks like to grow older in this sport we love—explo
EP 729: The Golden Retriever Mindset - Lesson's from a 22 Year-old
At just 22 years old, Nicholas Steel is attempting to become the youngest person to complete sixteen 100-mile races in a single year—all while working full-time. In this episode, Nicholas shares what drives him to chase such an audacious goal, from his first marathon a little over a year ago to a solo Backyard Ultra and beyond. He opens up about the mental resilience it takes to keep showing up, t
EP 728: Be Kind to Yourself-Secret Weapon at Arizona's Monster 300
In this episode, ultra-endurance athlete Lucja Leonard recounts her transformative experience running the Arizona Monster 300, a race that pushed her beyond her limits. She talks about her essential strategies for success in ultra-running, including the importance of sleep, hydration, nutrition, and terrain research. Lucja highlights how positive self-talk, mental resilience, and a supportive comm
EP 727: Endurance Beyond the Finish Line
In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we explore the gritty world of endurance sports with ultrarunner and guest Shannon Hogan, author of The Unforgiving Hours: the Grit, Resilience, and Perseverance at the Heart of Endurance Sports. The conversation weaves through incredible feats like the Boston Double—an underground marathon challenge—and the icy realm of cold water swimming, examining the p
EP 726: Ultrarunning's Past Was Wilder Than You Think
To really understand who we are as a running community—What drives us, what connects us, and why we keep pushing our limits, we have to look back. Long before ultras, Strava segments, or finish-line belt buckles, there was pedestrianism—a 19th-century spectacle where athletes raced for six days straight inside smoky arenas, cheered on by thousands. Our resident ultrarunning historian, Davy Crocket
EP 725: What Every Young Athlete—and Parent—Should Know About Nutrition
We all know that nutrition is essential for peak performance—but for young athletes, it's so much more than just fuel. In this episode, we're joined by expert coach and author Michele Pettinger to explore how nutrition supports adolescent athletes as they navigate growing bodies, shifting hormones, academic pressures, and evolving relationships. Michele shares insights from her book on how parents
EP 724: Why Most Athletes Get Carbs Wrong
Are you fueling your endurance training the right way—or are outdated carb myths holding you back? In this episode, we're joined by sports dietitian Bob Seebohar to explore the evolving science behind carbohydrate consumption in endurance sports. We discuss how nutrition periodization, metabolic flexibility, and gut training can transform both performance and recovery. Bob challenges the one-size-
EP 723: The Power of Discomfort
What if we told you that putting yourself in controlled, uncomfortable situations—like ice baths, fasting, or extreme endurance events—could make you a better runner and a better human? In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, Don and Scott explore the science and strategy of discomfort, challenging the idea that comfort is always the goal. They discuss how modern "comfort culture" may actually be
EP 722: The Explorer's Gene: Understanding Our Drive for Adventure
What drives us to venture into the unknown—even when there's no finish line or prize at the end? In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we sit down with author and science journalist Alex Hutchinson to explore the ideas behind his new book, The Explorer's Gene: Why we Seek Big Challenges, New Flavors, and the Blank Spots on the Map. From ancient Polynesian voyages to backyard adventures with his
EP 721: Conquering 200-Mile+ Races- Part 2
This is Part 2 of a two-part series on running 200-mile races that we started last episode. We are joined again by coaches Ian Sharman and 200-mile specialist Annie Hughes to explore the rising popularity of 200-mile races. From gear selection and aid station efficiency to hydration, nutrition, and personal hygiene, they share practical tips for thriving in long-distance events. The conversation e
EP 720: Conquering 200-Mile+ Races- Part 1
In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we are joined by coaches Ian Sharman and 200-mile specialist Annie Hughes to explore the rising popularity of 200-mile races. Annie shares her rapid progression from short distances to ultra races, while Ian provides expert insights on coaching, training strategies, and the mental and physical demands of extreme endurance events. The discussion covers key as
EP 719: What Does it Mean to Master the Art of Running?
"The goal is just supposed to stretch you further." In this episode, author and coach Matt Fitzgerald, discusses his new book launching on March 25 'Chasing Mastery: 25 Lessons to Cultivate Your Full Potential in Endurance Sports' which explores the journey of cultivating full potential in endurance sports. Matt discusses the definitions of success, the importance of motivation, and the common goa
EP 718: Bodily Fluids and Other Trail Etiquette You Need to Know
Have you ever wondered what the unspoken rules of trail running are? In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we break down some of the unspoken etiquette that keeps trail running enjoyable and safe for everyone. Coach Jimmy Dean Freeman joins us to revisit an episode on etiquette that we published in 2014. From headlamp etiquette and right-of-way rules to the dos and don'ts of using headphones on
EP 717: Ultimate Endurance Meets Community Spirit at Arrowhead 135
What is the toughest race in the world? According to The Nxorth, the Arrowhead 135 is a strong contender. With an average finish rate below 50%, Race Director Ken Krueger and his team have crafted an event that's as grueling as it is rooted in old-school camaraderie and a close-knit, family-like community. Finishers Bob Crowley and Terry Fletcher share their preparation strategies, gear tips, a
EP 716: From Setback to Comeback: Running Through Adversity
Endurance athlete, coach, nutritionist and best-selling author Matt Fitzgerald rejoins the podcast to share his journey of resilience and recovery after battling long COVID. He reflects on how the illness challenged his identity as a runner and the strategic approach he took to regain his endurance. Matt discusses his experience training for the Javelina 100 race, the mental resilience required to
EP 715: How Do the Best Runners Overcome Mental Roadblocks?
Are you ready to take your endurance sports mindset to the next level? In this episode we explore the book, Unbeatable Mind: Forge Resiliency and Mental Toughness to Suceed at an Elite Level, by Mark Devine. Coach Adam Kimble joins us as we uncover the power of mental toughness, self-mastery, and preparation in running and life. We review three of the chapters and the golden nuggets that might he
EP 714: The Life-Changing Decision to Run
In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we invite you to be the guest as we discuss the transformative power of running and highlight its profound impact on mental health, physical fitness, and personal growth. Through personal stories, we explore how trail running provides an escape, fosters resilience, and strengthens community connections. We also discuss the importance of mental toughness, the
EP 713: Can Suffering Lead to Hope and Gratitude?
James Lawrence, the Iron Cowboy, joins The Nation to talk about his extraordinary journey in endurance sports, including his world-record-setting Ironman triathlons. James reflects on overcoming early struggles, the transformative power of mindset, and how embracing suffering shaped his resilience. He highlights the importance of community, gratitude, and hope, sharing emotional stories like helpi
EP 712: Community, Connection, and the Joy of Running
There is an unwritten code of ethics promoting health, respect, and community support. in trail running. It has existed for longer than any of us. As a tribe or community, we need to know, share, and protect this code. Coach Jimmy Dean Freeman rejoins us after many years to help us understand part of this code. The SoCal Coyotes running club created a short list of some of these codes. This i
EP 711: From Pinpricks to Performance: Ask the Coaches
In this Ask the Coaches episode, three coaches from Sharman Ultra Coaching, Ian Sharman, Dr. Matt Laye, and Jackson Brill bring topics that they regularly encounter with their athletes. The conversation dives into the importance of mental toughness in ultra running, offering practical training strategies and insights on managing expectations during races. Episode Sponsors: Janji, Use code TRAI
EP 710: Brilliant or B.S.
In this episode, we play a game of "brilliant" or "bullshit" based on ten essential skills or knowledge areas that our "guest", Chat GPT, feels that every trail runner must know. Topics include embracing mud, barefoot running, hydration timing, and the value of technical gear, complemented by personal anecdotes and insights. The conversation highlights balancing technology with intuition, the ben
EP 709: Fact or Fiction? Debunking Myths About Fitness, Nutrition, and Endurance
There are so many new studies and scientific discoveries that it's tough for us runners to discern what is fact and what is fiction. That's why we enjoy every discussion we have with Alex Hutchinson. He dispels the fake news and brings to us the latest and greatest in athletic research in his "Sweat Science" column at OutsideOnline.com. In this episode, we discuss a few of his recent articles on
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