Trail Runner Nation

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 running as an investment that compounds over time, especially when paired with better nutrition. The conversation also explores how beginners can cut through noise and focus on simple fundamentals like cadence and effort, while questioning whether trends like "gravel running" are innovation or just clever marketing. Along the way, we highlight how trail running uniquely benefits mental health, reinforcing why time on the trails feels different than pounding pavement. Check out 33 Fuel for amazing and healthy products that will help you live healthier. If you live in the USA, you can buy their Ultimate Daily Greens via Amazon HERE. Episode Sponsors: Tifosi Optics - CLARITY ON THE TRAIL: Post your Golden Nugget of wisdom that helps you recover after a huge effort on Instagram, tag @TifosiOptics, @TrailRunnerNation, and use the hashtag #ClarityOnTheTrail. OR try texting us (within the USA) with your tip: 916-235-3928. If we use yours on a weekly episode, you get a pair of the new Sanctum SL glasses! Peluva - Footwear that let your feet be feet. Get 10% off on our DEALS page Timestamps 00:00 – Reunion & Format Setup Scott and Don welcome Warren back and explain the fast-paced "audio magazine" format. 11:00 – Should Races Ban Content Creation? Debate on whether filming during races helps grow the sport or distracts from it. 24:00 – What Running Really Does to Your Body Discussion of research on red blood cell damage and what it means for performance and recovery. 30:00 – Nutrition, Recovery, and Long-Term Health Warren explains why whole-food fueling may improve recovery and long-term outcomes. 39:00 – Learning to Run: What Actually Matters Simple, foundational advice for new runners like cadence, effort, and consistency. 50:00 – Trail Running and Mental Health Why running in nature has a stronger effect on mood, stress, and brain function. 54:00 – "Gravel Running" and the Future of the Sport Exploring whether new categories are helpful or just clever marketing.

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, how they learned to descend with confidence, and why many runners sabotage themselves by braking too much and overthinking every step. Hal also shares memorable moments from decades in the sport, including hallucinations, race-day mistakes, lessons from other legends, and the strange, beautiful chaos that unfolds after enough miles in the mountains. Along the way, we discuss how the sport has changed, from shoes and nutrition to the growing popularity of ultrarunning, while Hal remains the same smiling, endlessly curious runner with the grin that somehow survives even mile 90. By the end, the episode feels less like an interview and more like sitting beside a campfire with one of the sport's great storytellers while the mountains glow quietly in the background. Check out "Unbreakable" film SharmanUltra.com coaching Hal Koerner's Field Guide to Ultrarunning Preorder Ian's book, "The Art of Ultrarunning: Tried & Tested Strategies for Long-Distance. Episode Sponsors: Tifosi Optics - CLARITY ON THE TRAIL: Post your Golden Nugget of wisdom that helps you recover after a huge effort on Instagram, tag @TifosiOptics, @TrailRunnerNation, and use the hashtag #ClarityOnTheTrail. OR try texting us (within the USA) with your tip: 916-235-3928. If we use yours on a weekly episode, you get a pair of the new Sanctum SL glasses! Peluva - Footwear that let your feet be feet. Get 10% off on our DEALS page Timestamps 06:00 – What Ultrarunning Used to Be Like Hal reflects on the early days of the sport, when aid stations were simpler, shoes were sketchier, and ultrarunners seemed stitched together from duct tape, stubbornness, and peanut butter sandwiches. 14:00 – The Downhill Running Advantage Hal explains why his ability to descend gave him an edge, how he learned to trust gravity, and why most runners unknowingly fight the trail on every downhill. 27:00 – Hallucinations, Mistakes & The Weird Stuff That Happens After 80 Miles The conversation drifts into race stories, strange moments, and the surreal carnival that begins when exhaustion starts repainting reality with a very crooked brush. 40:00 – How the Sport Has Changed The evolution of ultrarunning, from carbon shoes and nutrition science to the explosion of races, gear, and attention. 53:00 – The Lessons That Last Hal shares the wisdom he has gathered after decades in the mountains: stay adaptable, keep your sense of humor, and never lose the grin, even when the trail is trying very hard to take it from you.

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. The discussion explores how calluses, hot spots, toenails, and skin changes can reveal weaknesses in shoe choice, mobility, gait, and training habits. Tonya also unveils the surprising connection between foot problems and bigger biomechanical issues, explaining how limitations in the ankle, big toe, hips, and glutes can ripple down the kinetic chain like one bad domino tipping into another. We talk about simple weekly routines, mobility work, proprioception, and why "good enough" maintenance now can prevent a full-scale foot mutiny later. By the end, the episode makes a compelling case that resilient feet are not built in race week, but one small habit at a time. Resources & Links: Fixing Your Feet Seventh Edition by Dr. John Vonhof & Dr. Tonya Olson Footcare- YouTube ChannelFootcare Products Tonya RecommendsDr. Tanya Olson's website Episode Sponsors: Tifosi Optics - CLARITY ON THE TRAIL: Post your Golden Nugget of wisdom that helps you recover after a huge effort on Instagram, tag @TifosiOptics, @TrailRunnerNation, and use the hashtag #ClarityOnTheTrail. OR try texting us (within the USA) with your tip: 916-235-3928. If we use yours on a weekly episode, you get a pair of the new Sanctum SL glasses! Peluva - Footwear that let your feet be feet. Get 10% off on our DEALS page Timestamps: 00:00 – Why We Ignore Our Feet Until It's Too Late Tonya explains why runners obsess over nutrition, pacing, and gear, yet somehow treat their feet like forgotten basement tenants until race day. 05:00 – Calluses, Skin, and What Your Feet Are Telling You How calluses, maceration, hot spots, and toenail changes can reveal problems with shoe fit, movement, and foot mechanics. 14:00 – The Simple Weekly Foot Routine Every Runner Needs Tonya lays out a practical, low-maintenance routine: inspect your feet after long runs, trim and file nails, moisturize, and look for warning signs before they become race-ending monsters. 20:00 – Why Foot Problems Start Higher Up the Chain A fascinating look at how mobility limitations in the ankle, big toe, hips, and glutes can lead to blisters, pain, and poor running mechanics. Your foot may be the smoke, but the fire could be somewhere upstream. 33:00 – Wobble Boards, Mobility, and Training Smarter The group discusses proprioception, ankle sprains, balance training, and which exercises actually transfer to better trail running. 48:00 – The Long Game: Keeping Your Feet Healthy for Decades Tonya explains why maintaining mobility and strength over time is the key to avoiding the stiff, cranky, "why does everything hurt now?" runner future

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 corners of race prep. Colleen shares that one of her hundred-mile races carried a $4,500 receipt, but she emphasizes that ultras can also be done on a shoestring with borrowed gear, local races, and simple nutrition. We wrestle with whether modern technology and gear have improved the sport or turned it into a glittering outdoor equipment bazaar with carbon-plated everything and hydration packs that resemble small spacecraft. Along the way, we celebrate community-driven "fat ass" races, the value of supporting race directors and small local events, and the idea that the memories, friendships, and growth from an ultra often outlast whatever else you could have bought with the money. In the end, the episode asks a bigger question: Is running expensive, or is it one of the best investments we make in ourselves? Colleen's article in Ultrarunning Magazine Check out Boundless Coaching Episode Sponsors: Tifosi Optics - CLARITY ON THE TRAIL: Post your Golden Nugget of wisdom that helps you recover after a huge effort on Instagram, tag @TifosiOptics, @TrailRunnerNation, and use the hashtag #ClarityOnTheTrail. OR try texting us (within the USA) with your tip If we use yours on a weekly episode, you get a pair of the new Sanctum SL glasses! Peluva - Footwear that let your feet be feet. Get 10% off on our DEALS page TIme Stamps 00:00 – The Real Cost of an A-Race Scott and Don introduce the idea that race fees are only the tip of the iceberg floating through your checking account like a frozen credit card statement. Travel, gear, coaching, food, and training all add up fast. 04:00 – Colleen's $4,500 Race Receipt Colleen explains how she calculated the true cost of one of her hundred milers, while also making the case that ultras can be done far more cheaply depending on your choices. 08:00 – Do You Really Need Expensive Gear? The conversation turns to GPS watches, hydration packs, carbon shoes, sunscreen, and whether trail running has become an arms race made of nylon, foam, and marketing copy. 18:00 – Why Race Fees Keep Rising Scott, Don, and Colleen discuss what race directors are actually paying for: permits, insurance, aid stations, safety, volunteers, swag, and the complicated circus tent behind every starting line. 23:30 – Fat Ass Races, Community & "Fat Heart" Running A joyful detour into old-school, low-cost grassroots races where the start line might be a stop sign and the bib comes from someone's home printer. Colleen proposes a better name: "Fat Heart Race." 27:00 – If You Could Go Back, Would You? The group debates whether they would trade today's expensive high-tech gear for the simpler, cheaper days of Timex watches, syrup bottles, and Snickers bars. 39:00 – Is It Worth the Money? The closing reflection: maybe the finish line medal isn't what you're really paying for. Maybe you're buying purpose, discipline, memories, friendships, and the version of yourself that only appears after a few predawn training runs and a questionable amount of squirrel's nut butter.

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 adventure. We explore what it really takes to stay connected to trail running over decades. Bryce shares how a deep love of the outdoors and the human-powered movement form the foundation for long-term engagement in the sport. The conversation moves into how motivation evolves from personal performance to purpose, service, and community, while also addressing the tension between modern convenience and the sport's rugged roots. We reflect on gear innovation, race culture changes, and the importance of maintaining responsibility, resilience, and self-reliance on the trail. Bryce offers powerful insights on longevity, consistency, and adapting expectations as we age without losing joy. Ultimately, the episode is about staying grounded in your "why" while evolving with each season of life Episode Sponsors: Tifosi Optics - CLARITY ON THE TRAIL: Post your Golden Nugget on Instagram, tag @TifosiOptics, @TrailRunnerNation, and use the hashtag #ClarityOnTheTrail. If we use yours on a weekly episode, you get a pair of the new Sanctum SL glasses! Peluva - Footwear that let your feet be feet. Get 10% off on our DEALS page TImestamps: 02:30 – What Creates Longevity in the Sport Love of the outdoors + human-powered movement as the foundation for staying in trail running long-term. 08:00 – Origins, Gear Evolution & Finding Your "Why" Early days of the sport, how gear has changed, and the risk of losing intrinsic motivation. 13:30 – Redefining Performance: From PRs to "FK Me" Shifting from peak performance to personal best for your current stage of life. 19:00 – Has Trail Running Lost Its Edge? Discussion on race culture, aid stations, responsibility, and the tension between convenience and adventure. 27:00 – Solo vs Community: The Balance That Sustains Us Running as meditation vs shared experience, and why both matter for longevity. 34:00 – Adapting as You Age: Training, Gear & Recovery Cross-training, strength work, and evolving expectations to stay healthy and consistent. 55:00 – Advice to Your Younger (and Older) Self Consistency, simplicity, and long-term thinking as the keys to a lifetime in the sport.

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 hard efforts. We talk about internal versus external motivation, the power of anticipation, and how reframing challenges can shape both performance and mindset. We explore flow state, decision-making under fatigue, and why doing hard things helps us better appreciate everyday life. Ultimately, the episode reflects on how endurance sports create community, reveal character, and provide a powerful lens for understanding human behavior and purpose. Check out more about Adam and hire him as a coach HERE Sponsors: Tifosi OpticsPeluva TimeStamps 00:00 – Intro & Book Overview: Introduction to The Sweet Spot and why endurance athletes are drawn to discomfort and meaning. 03:20 – First Impressions of the Book: Initial reactions and key takeaways about doing hard things and personal growth. 05:50 – What is "Benign Masochism"? Exploring voluntary suffering and why difficult challenges feel rewarding. 08:10 – Internal vs External Motivation: Do we pursue hard goals for ourselves or for recognition from others? 15:30 – Pain, Pleasure & the "Ikea Effect": Why effort increases satisfaction and meaning in achievement. 21:10 – Pain as Presence & Mental Focus: How physical discomfort brings runners into the present moment. 26:50 – The Power of Anticipation & Race Anxiety: Mental rehearsal, visualization, and preparing for both highs and lows. 33:20 – Stoicism, Problem Solving & Simple Rules: Decision-making strategies when things go wrong during races. 41:45 – The Paradox of Effort in an Easy World: Why modern comfort drives us to seek difficult challenges. 48:30 – Reframing Struggle & Perspective on the Trail: How mindset shifts can turn suffering into forward progress. 55:00 – Intention Over Perfection: Why showing up with purpose matters more than executing a flawless race. 59:30 – Meaning, Community & Final Quotes: Closing reflections on bonding, humanity, and why endurance sports matter.

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, nature, and togetherness rather than competition or performance. The conversation explores powerful cultural concepts like korima, the practice of sharing without expectation, and how movement in nature can restore balance and contentment in modern life. Michael also reflects on the legacy of Micah True (Caballo Blanco) and the evolution of the Ultramarathon Caballo Blanco race, which now brings together runners from around the world while supporting local communities. We consider what trail runners can learn from the Rarámuri about simplicity, presence, and reconnecting with the deeper purpose of running. Ultimately, the discussion suggests that "running like a Rarámuri" is less about technique and more about learning to live with gratitude, connection, and joy. Check out the non-profit True Messages for more information and how to support these projects, and these other links: Ultra Caballo Blanco Copper Canyons Entre Amigos Camps Instagram Sponsors: Tifosi OpticsPeluva Timestamps 0:00 Intro to Michael Miller and Run Like a Rarámuri 2:05 What makes the Ultramarathon Caballo Blanco unique 6:15 Who the Rarámuri are and how Born to Run shaped their global story 14:10 Running as culture: traditional games, community, and connection 20:06 Michael's personal journey to the Sierra and why this became a passion project 29:37 Training vs. lifestyle: how the Rarámuri develop endurance naturally 34:52 Is the book about running… or about living? 44:42 Korima explained: sharing, gratitude, and the social fabric of the Rarámuri 51:11 Supporting the community: nonprofit work and how listeners can help 58:13 Closing reflections on Micah True's legacy and running free

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 self-care, strength work, listening to the body, and adapting training as athletes age. The discussion explores the mental side of endurance, including acceptance of changing performance, learning to manage negative thoughts during long races, and developing the wisdom that comes from decades of experience. Darcy also shares how mindfulness and time in nature play a powerful role in both mental health and athletic performance, something she incorporates into her therapy practice. We reflect on the evolving identity of an athlete over time, balancing competitiveness with enjoyment, family life, and other pursuits beyond running. We highlight that staying in the sport for decades is less about chasing podiums and more about cultivating resilience, perspective, and a lasting love for the trail. Check out Darcy's Therapy practice, "Therapy in Action" or get in touch with her darcypq@gmail.com. If you're in Bellingham, WA in March and want to help out at Chuckanut 50k, click here to volunteer. Episode Sponsor: Tifosi Optics - CLARITY ON THE TRAIL: Post your Golden Nugget on Instagram, tag @TifosiOptics, @TrailRunnerNation, and use the hashtag #ClarityOnTheTrail. If we use yours on a weekly episode, you get a pair of the new Sanctum SL glasses! Episode Topics & Timestamps 1:00 – Darcy's Background: Elite Runner and Therapist 3:30 – What Creates Longevity in the Sport? 6:00 – The Mental Side of Aging as an Athlete 9:00 – Mindfulness, Stress, and Mental Training 12:45 – Mental Toughness in Ultrarunning 17:30 – The Power of Nature and Trail Therapy 23:00 – Managing Focus During Long Races 29:00 – Racing for the Podium vs Racing for the Experience 31:30 – How Darcy Found Ultrarunning 35:30 – Hardrock, Motherhood, and Career Balance 38:30 – Training Philosophy for Longevity 41:00 – The Wednesday Women's Run in Boulder 44:00 – Identity Beyond Running 48:00 – What Makes a Race Truly Successful? 52:30 – Advice to Younger and Older Versions of Yourself 56:30 – The Mental vs Physical Performance Question 1:00:15 – Therapy in Action and Closing Thoughts

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-the-pack reveals about grit, community, and the true spirit of trail running. This conversation is a reminder that endurance isn't just about speed; it's about persistence, heart, and refusing to quit when the margin gets thin. Links: Arivaipa Running:Cocadona 250Lucy's Dad Get the "1 > 0" running hat HERE. Time Stamps 1:30 – Introducing Dylan Harris and the story behind The Cut-Off 5:00 – Why focus on back-of-the-pack runners? 10:30 – The emotional reality of chasing aid station cutoffs 18:00 – Stories from filming: moments of grit, struggle, and triumph 26:00 – What the back-of-the-pack reveals about trail culture 34:00 – The community factor: volunteers, crews, and fellow runners 42:00 – Lessons from the film for everyday runners 50:00 – Where to watch The Cut-Off and what's next for Dylan 55:00 – Final thoughts and closing

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 what actually helps runners train smarter, stay healthy, and improve long-term performance. If you've ever wondered whether your VO₂ max score is a guiding light or just another shiny data point, this episode brings clarity and perspective from the trail. Key Topics Get the "1 > 0" running hat HERE. Timestamps 00:00 - Overview of the podcast topic: VO2 max importance for ultra runners 02:31 - Christian Blumenfeldt's unbelievable VO2 max of 101.1 — reality versus perception 03:26 - Simplified definition of VO2 max — oxygen consumption capacity of the body 04:43 - Limitations of wearable VO2 max estimates and lab versus field testing accuracy 05:34 - Why VO2 max is only part of the performance equation, not the whole story 07:13 - How VO2 max predicts short race performance but less so in ultradistance events 08:11 - The impact of fatigue resistance, durability, and fueling on ultramarathon success 09:31 - The significance of fractional utilization (operating below VO2 max ceiling) 10:13 - Can VO2 max be manipulated through training? Early season versus peak preparation 12:00 - The endurance spectrum: training both VO2 max and aerobic base for a well-rounded system 13:35 - Visualizing training as a string; raising ceiling versus improving utilization 14:34 - Should runners push to their VO2 max ceiling or focus on fractional utilization? 17:17 - Training strategies: balancing intensity, recovery, and avoiding injury during VO2 max work 20:04 - Substituting high-intensity VO2 work with cross-training (cycling, swimming) to reduce impact 21:28 - Monitoring other critical metrics: lactate threshold, recovery pace, subjective feedback 23:53 - The significance of individualized, periodized VO2 max training blocks 26:42 - The importance of patience, gradual progression, and listening to your body 28:55 - How to incorporate VO2 max sessions into your weekly plan: frequency, duration, and recovery 33:16 - The role of training specificity and modality as competition approaches 41:38 - Maintaining fitness and VO2 max as we age through consistent, varied training 43:33 - Linking strength training and lean muscle mass to VO2 max improvements 46:51 - Cross-training options and managing impact: cycling, swimming, hill repeats 48:37 - Final tips for beginners and experienced runners on starting VO2 max work safely 52:12 - The future of training: evidence-based approaches and coaching support at CTS

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 Alex explains the critical role of strength training, the importance of intensity and progressive load, and how endurance athletes can balance running with the work needed to maintain power. The discussion also challenges common myths about aging, showing that performance losses are not inevitable but often the result of training gaps rather than biology alone. For aging athletes and lifelong runners, this episode offers a practical roadmap for staying strong, capable, and competitive for decades. This discussion began from Alex's review of Michael Joseph Gross' book, "Stronger: The Untold Story of Muscle in Our Lives" Key Topics: Timestamps: Resources & Links: Stronger: A Scientist's Guide to the Power of Muscleby Michael Joseph GrossThe Endure: Mind, Body, and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human PerformanceThe Explorer's Gene: Why We Seek Big Challenges, New Flavors, and the Blank Spots on the MapOutside Online Sweat Science Connect with Alex Hutchinson: TwitterInstagramAlexHutchinson.net Get the "1 > 0" running hat HERE.

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: Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to foot care for ultra runners 00:45 - Common foot problems and why they're preventable 02:10 - Modern advancements in foot care products 03:25 - The pitfalls of using duct tape and Vaseline 04:30 - Developing a personalized foot care plan 06:00 - Managing moisture and preventing maceration 07:45 - Addressing sweaty feet and saltwater effects 09:00 - Tips for taping and preventing blisters during races 10:00 - Specific techniques for treatment and prevention 15:00 - How terrain, elevation, and running style influence foot care 20:00 - Toenail health and corrections for injuries 25:00 - When and how to lance blisters safely 30:00 - Post-race foot monitoring and adjustments 35:00 - The importance of education and continuous improvement 38:00 - Future resources and part two of this series Resources & Links: Fixing Your Feet Seventh Edition by Dr. John Vonhof & Dr. Tonya Olson Footcare- YouTube ChannelFootcare Products Tonya RecommendsDr. Tanya Olson's website Kinesiology Tape for Foot CareSalty Britches Skin Barrier Ointment Toe Caps (Toe Condoms) – Pressure Relief Alpaca Fiber Socks (Hollow Brand) Mastisol Skin Adhesive Get the "1 > 0" running hat HERE.

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, sacred cows, and well-worn advice get put on trial through experience, evidence, and strong opinions. The result is fast-paced, thoughtful, and occasionally spicy. Pick a side, challenge your assumptions, and enjoy the debate. Need coaching? Try giving these coaches a try: GiddyUp UltraSharman Ultra Proof that Ian met David Beckham Get the "1 > 0" running hat HERE.

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-rescue professional, her life changed forever after a catastrophic fall on El Capitan in 2017 that left her with a T11 ASIA A spinal cord injury. With honesty and clarity, Quinn explains what that diagnosis means, how it affects her body, and how it reshaped the way she sees herself and the world. But this episode is not about loss. It's about endurance redefined. Drawing on her background in psychology, yoga, and ultra-endurance sport, Quinn shares how the mindset she built as an athlete now fuels her recovery and her future. Endurance, she explains, is no longer measured in miles or summits, but in the daily choice to keep moving forward, mentally and emotionally. The conversation weaves through the realities of aging, injury, and reinvention, highlighting the role of community, purpose, and curiosity in building a meaningful next chapter. Quinn's eyes are firmly on the horizon, with goals that include open-water swimming and even triathlons, proof that adventure doesn't end when life changes direction. This episode is a reminder that while our bodies evolve and our paths shift, the spirit of an athlete, the drive to explore, and the courage to adapt can remain boundless. Gold Nuggets Aging and injury can redefine, not diminish, the athlete's journey Understanding spinal cord injuries fosters empathy and support Endurance is as much mental as it is physical Community, mindset, and purpose are essential for long-term resilience Links that you should check out: Unite 2 Fight CureCast PodcastUnite 2 Fight Paralysis An Accidental LifeThe Tour DivideQuinn's WebsiteKrissy's Website Get the "1 > 0" running hat HERE.

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 participation and media coverage to rising expectations around professionalism and athlete experience. We discuss the emergence of 200+ mile races, the power of livestreaming and storytelling, and how technology is changing how runners train, race, and engage with the sport. The conversation also tackles cost, accessibility, and the growing presence of corporate influence, alongside the responsibility of race directors as stewards of ultrarunning's culture. Throughout it all, Jamil reminds us why the sport still works — community, shared suffering, and a deep respect between elites and back-of-the-pack runners alike. Follow Aravaipa Running on Instagram to find out more about the upcoming movie, "The Cutoff" Get the NEW "1 > 0" running hat HERE.

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 progress. Adam shares insights on staying consistent through busy schedules, low-motivation days, and inevitable setbacks. Whether you're training for your first trail race or a 100-miler, this episode reminds us that showing up consistently matters more than doing everything perfectly. Learn more about Adam by checking out his web site and his coaching site, Run On Dirt Coaching Adam's social channels: Instagram, Twitter, Facebook Get the NEW "1 > 0" running hat HERE.

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, play along, and enjoy this one. Check out more about Katie Asmuth The Trail Network PodcastWomen's Trailrunning Fund Hire AJW as a coach! And read his weekly article in the AJW's Taproom Or tune into the Crack a Brew with AJWpodcast. Episode Sponsors Tifosi Optics"1 > 0" running hat HERE

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 runner, or full-blown OG. Along the way, we share personal stories, questionable decisions, and plenty of laughs that anyone who's spent time on the trail will recognize. It's participatory, self-aware, and a reminder that trail running is as much about community and mindset as miles and pace. Grab your scorecard (or fingers), protect your dignity, and find out just how trail you really are. Episode Sponsors JanjiNEWpartner: Good Coachtrn2026."1 > 0" running hat HERE

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, small-town hospitality, and situations only he seems to find himself in. The episode highlights how adventure, creativity, and community often matter more than pace, podiums, or results. It's a reminder that some of the most meaningful runs happen when there's no clock and no competition. Learn more about Mike at his website Episode Sponsors JanjiAmazfit - T-Rex 3Tifosi Optics"1 > 0" running hat HERE

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 elites, when hiking becomes more efficient than running, and how small training adjustments can dramatically improve long-race outcomes. Ian also shares practical guidance on using weight vests wisely and why your slowest mile often matters more than your fastest. Find out more about Ian at Sharman Ultra Coaching Episode Sponsors JanjiNEW Good Coachtrn2026."1 > 0" running hat HERE