Singletrack

Ben Dhiman returns to the show a week removed from his landmark victory at the 2026 Ultra Trail Du Mont Blanc (UTMB). Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderJanji - running apparel that goes the distanceRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeMomentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order Kodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

Caleb Olson joins us in the studio fresh off his 3rd place finish at the 2026 Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB). We reflect on his race execution, what this means for his career, and his next steps.  Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Rachel Entrekin joins us in the studio fresh off her 2nd place finish at the 2026 Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB). We reflect on her race execution, what this means for her career, and her next steps.  Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Our coverage of the 2026 UTMB World Series concludes with a recap of Ultra Trail Du Mont Blanc. Brett Hornig joins me in studio to reflect on dominant victories by Ben Dhiman and Blandine L'Hirondel, thrilling races in both fields to round out the podiums, and final takeaways from the biggest week in trail running. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Another thrilling race at the UTMB World Series Finals here in Chamonix. Brett Hornig and Finn Melanson hop back on the microphones to recap the highlights from CCC. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Lauren Gregory joins us in studio to recap her victory at OCC.  Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

What did we just witness? Brett Hornig and Finn Melanson break down one of the most exciting races in recent memory..maybe of all time? That was wild.  Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Anton Krupicka returns to the podcast. We riff on his recently resurfaced 2010 Western States goal sheet, killing or reviving the running avatar, time spent with Colin Haley in Patagonia, advice to the current generation of professional ultrarunners, and inspiration versus obligation on start lines.  Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Michael Versteeg returns to the podcast. This time we get into leaving Satisfy, Trofeo Kima, races as "cruise ships for outdoor athletes," adventure in a fully explored world, health and food as revolutionary acts, and why it shouldn't take trauma to appreciate life.  Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

A legend of the sport, Joe Grant joins us in our Chamonix studio. We discuss the early days of UTMB and Tor des Géants, his relationship with Roch Horton and stories from the Kroger’s Canteen aid station at Hardrock, the influence of Matt Carpenter on his approach to ultrarunning, and why he thinks running media too often puts the act of running ahead of the landscapes it moves through. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

In what (hopefully) has become an annual UTMB week tradition, Max Jolliffe joins us in our Chamonix studio for another long-form conversation. We discuss insights from his course-record win at Badwater, why he might skip Cocodona next year for a backyard ultra, his continued fascination with the Barkley Marathons, and closes with some reflections on religion and spirituality. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Leah Yingling returns to UTMB three years after an impressive 8th place debut finish back in 2023. In this conversation we discuss her history of racing in Chamonix, adapting to a rapidly professionalizing sport, why success here equates to rejecting complacency, hiring Jack Kuenzle, balancing peak training with parenthood, and some of her predictions for the deepest women’s field ever. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Brett Hornig joins me in our Chamonix studio to preview the men's and women's fields at the 2026 OCC, part of the UTMB World Series Finals. In both fields, we cover top storylines and what to watch for, we answer some listener mail about the race, provide analysis of top contenders, categorize who we see as candidates for the win, for the podium, and the top 10, and we make bold predictions across a number of other fun categories. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains  Support the show

Brett Hornig joins me in our Chamonix studio to preview the men's and women's fields at the 2026 CCC, part of the UTMB World Series Finals. In both fields, we cover top storylines and what to watch for, we answer some listener mail about the race, provide analysis of top contenders, categorize who we see as candidates for the win, for the podium, and the top 10, and we make bold predictions across a number of other fun categories. At the end of the preview, we transition to a pre-race interview with Toni McCann - a past CCC and OCC champion - who is lining up again at CCC. We get insights into her state of mind heading into her third straight appearance at this World Series final. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Note: Kilian Jornet and Jim Walmsley are, unfortunately, out of UTMB this year. This information became public shortly after the recording of this podcast. Brett Hornig joins me in our Chamonix studio to preview the men's and women's fields at the 2026 Ultra Trail Du Mont Blanc (UTMB). In both fields, we cover top storylines and what to watch for, we answer some listener mail about the race, provide analysis of top contenders, categorize who we see as candidates for the win, for the podium, and the top 10, and we make bold predictions across a number of other fun categories. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Caleb Olson joins us in our Chamonix studio a little over a week out from his debut at UTMB. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Lauren Gregory joins us in our Chamonix studio a week ahead of her debut at OCC. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Rachel Entrekin joins us in our Chamonix studio a little over a week away from her first start at Ultra Trail Du Mont Blanc. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Hans joins us in our Chamonix studio a little over a week out from the start of CCC. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Jack Kuenzle returns to the show, this time wearing the coaching hat. Among other topics, we cover the opportunities and limitations of using large language models in training, self-coaching vs. hiring a coach for elite athletes, the pacing plan behind Max Jolliffe's Badwater course record, Western States vs. UTMB build differences, and the case for training levers beyond running. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderJanji - running apparel that goes the distanceRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeKodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

Disclaimer: We recorded this episode a few days before the news broke that Courtney Dauwalter is racing UTMB. Brett Hornig joins the show for a preview-before-the-preview of UTMB 2026. We each bring our top 5 storylines heading into the biggest week in trail running, put out our current power rankings for the men's and women's fields, and play a round of Buy or Sell on the boldest claims for each of the championship races (UTMB, CCC, OCC). Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderJanji - running apparel that goes the distanceRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeMomentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order Kodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

David Ayala is a Professor of Mathematics at Montana State University and an amateur ultrarunner who most recently finished 3rd at the 2026 Hardrock 100. Until recently he'd never owned a watch. He has no social media. What he does have is a faculty webpage full of trip reports, written in LaTeX, for unsupported FKTs on the Wind River High Route, Sierra High Route, and Teton Center Punch, documented with a remarkable level of transparency.  In this Sunday Conversation, we talk about training for flow state, why he calls competition "oblique collaboration," the huckleberry analogy, and whether he'll ever race again. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderJanji - running apparel that goes the distanceRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeMomentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order Kodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

Sophie Woods just ran the length of the Alps faster than anyone in recorded history. Starting in Trieste, Italy on July 4 and finishing in Monaco on August 1, she covered the Via Alpina, 2,018 kilometers and 117,614 meters of climbing across eight countries, in 28 days, 17 hours, and 59 minutes, beating the previous overall record by more than seven days. In this conversation, Sophie takes us inside the effort: the highs and lows, what she ate, how she paced certain sections, her sleep strategy, and how she handled setbacks like wildfires, bugs, and course reroutes.   We also discuss her background as a London-based hairdresser, seven years living in a camper van, her IVF journey, three finishes at Tor des Géants, and a podium debut at the Winter Spine Race that she credits with giving her a whole new level to dig from. Plus what she learned from other multi-week specialists and whether she's really lining up for PTL just weeks after this FKT. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderJanji - running apparel that goes the distanceRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeKodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Additional Links: Follow Sophie Woods on InstagramCenturion CoachingSupport the show

Three weeks after Jennifer Lichter set a new course record at Western States, her coach John Fitzgerald joins the Singletrack Podcast to break down how it happened. Fitzgerald coaches an elite squad out of Missoula for Carmichael Training Systems, and this year he guided Jen to the win along with Jeff Mogavero and Adam Peterman into the men's top ten. We get into the philosophy underneath the results: why consistency is a trainable skill, why willpower is a resource you can spend too early, and what he means when he says success is rented. Fitzgerald explains the mental shift that took Jen from a mountain 50K specialist to a 100-mile course record holder, the on-course training camps that prepared his athletes for every crux of the Western States course, race-day fueling improvisations, downhill running as a skill, and his case for simplicity in a sport chasing every new gadget and lab test. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderJanji - running apparel that goes the distanceRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeKodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes  Additional Links: Coaching ProfileInstagram: @ackfitzSupport the show

Wright Thompson is a senior writer for ESPN.com and ESPN The Magazine who has profiled some of the greatest athletes and coaches of all time, including Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, Steve Kerr, Pat Riley, Caitlin Clark, and Dan Gable. He's also the author of 3 books: "The Cost of These Dreams", "The Barn", and "Pappyland".  In this conversation, we discuss optimization versus beauty in sports, sports as vehicles for self-understanding, why fame freezes people at the emotional age they got it, and where the tortured artist myth comes from before ending on mortality and legacy. Note - in case you're not interested, we spend the first 20 ish minutes of the conversation talking about our shared appreciation for music and certain artists and bands before getting into the aforementioned part of the conversation. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderJanji - running apparel that goes the distanceRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeMomentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order Kodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

Brett Hornig co-hosts for another classic edition of the Long Run Archives. We share our biggest takeaways from this year's Hardrock, reflect on the biggest moments from the first half of 2026, and feature the latest ultra-focused products that have caught our attention. Finally, we close with a brief interview of Ryder Jay, who won the U-18 NTN Eagle race at Broken Arrow last month. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderJanji - running apparel that goes the distanceRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeMomentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order Kodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

Tom Evans is back on the show! We last chatted after UTMB last year, so there was a lot of ground to cover: recapping the first half of 2026, his most recent treadmill workout, which garnered a lot of commentary on Instagram, the "why now" for Hardrock, his analysis of the competitive field here, and his reflections on how he's prepared for the opportunity. Thanks as always for tuning in. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderJanji - running apparel that goes the distanceRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeMomentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order Kodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

Two course records, a rookie champion, and a men's podium almost nobody predicted. Brett Hornig and Leah Yingling join me in Auburn to recap the 2026 Western States 100: Vincent Bouillard clawing back from ten minutes down at Forest Hill, Jennifer Lichter winning in her first 100-miler, the deepest women's top 10 in race history, plus buy-or-sell and our biggest questions for next year. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Jennifer Lichter joins us in our Auburn, CA studio shortly after her course record victory at the 2026 Western State 100.  Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains  Support the show

David Roche returns to the show a few days ahead of the 2026 Western States 100. Across 2024 and 2025, he put on one of the most memorable shows in our sport's history. He took us behind the scenes of his buildup to Javelina, Leadville, and Western States, fighting for wins and course records while running training experiments on himself. This year he's back at Western States, on the ground as a coach for athletes like Hans Troyer, Ellaney Matarese, and Justin Grunewald. We were lucky to get him in the studio for a long-form conversation, where we peppered him with questions on training, fueling, heat mitigation, and race strategy for the Western States 100. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, Jeff Colt, and Rod Farvard provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition in this year’s men's field at the Western States 100.  Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Zach Miller is one of the greatest, most entertaining, and most thoughtful runners of his generation. It's a treat to have him in the studio ahead of Western States, a race he has patiently waited to run for over a decade. Miller is coming off a memorable 2nd place golden ticket performance at the Canyons 100K, a race where he reunited with Hayden Hawks for yet another classic duel in their storied rivalry, which dates back to the 2016 TNF 50 in San Francisco. We also catch up with Zach on other topics, including his regular IRunFar column, his trusty North Face hat, and his reflections on this stage of his career as a professional ultra-trail runner. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

One of the most exciting and versatile athletes in our sport, Tara Dower joins us in the studio to reflect on this year’s mission to race the vaunted Western States-Hardrock double.  There’s a bit of a “revenge” narrative at play here as illness forced her to DNF at last year’s Western States and she was the very first person on the wait list at last year’s Hardrock, even suiting up for the start line the morning of the race in hopes that magic would happen. Ultimately, the stars didn’t align. But now it’s here.  We talk a lot about her process approaching the double, but also ask her about other interests in the sport, life in Durango, performance mantras, and her ability to dig remarkably deep in so many of these races. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Jennifer Lichter is the newest star in ultra-trail running. She's been winning important races since her breakout at The Rut 50K in 2021, but it was only about 18 months ago that the wider world caught on and she became a household name.  Since the start of 2025 she's beaten top fields to win the Transgrancanaria Marathon, Broken Arrow 46K, Speedgoat 50K, Black Canyon 100K, and Gorge Waterfalls 50K. Western States is her first time toeing the line for 100 miles, yet many already make her a favorite to win. Can she pull it off?  In this conversation we trace her path here, dig into what the buildup actually looked like, and talk through her strategy for handling the spotlight at the North American Super Bowl of ultrarunning. Hope you enjoy. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition in this year’s women's field at the Western States 100.  Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Kilian Jornet is the greatest trail and mountain runner of all time. He joins the show coming off a 3rd place finish at last year’s event, certainly questing for a victory in this year’s edition. He is the 2011 champion of Western States and debuted here in 2010 - the famous “Unbreakable” edition where he dueled with Geoff Roes and Anton Krupicka all day before landing on the podium in 3rd. Suffice it to say, Kilian has a storied history at this race. It’s not that often we get the privilege to speak with Kilian, so we also used this opportunity to have a broader conversation getting his insights on various state of sport topics. Hope you enjoy.  Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Scott Jurek is one of the greatest ultramarathoners of all time. His career ushered in an era of professionalism that enabled many that came after him to pursue this sport as a full-fledged career.  Since 2024, we have had Scott in the studio for long-form conversations during Western States week. At this point, it’s become one of our favorite traditions. Sometimes we talk about the state of the sport, sometimes we reflect on key moments in his racing career, and other times we just shoot the breeze.  In this one, we talk about Scott’s experience at Cocodona this year, his relationship with Dean Potter, pacing Brian Morrison in 2006, and whether ultrarunning is in a “golden age” right now. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

In this episode we share our final "power rankings" for both the men's and women's races. Stay tuned for additional, in-depth previews of both elite fields later this week. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Simply put, Lotti Brinks is one of the best ultrarunners in the sport right now. Over the last 2 years, she’s secured multiple top 10s at CCC, wins at Way Too Cool and Desert Rats, and a course record at the Gorge Waterfalls 100K this past spring that heralded her arrival into the upper echelon of the sport. This is her second time at Western States. She was here in 2024, placing 14th in 18:53. But many expect her to be a podium contender in 2026. Since this is our first ever interview with Lotti on Singletrack, we use the opportunity to learn more about her: her background, what motivates her pursuit of excellence in the ultra world, being coached by the great Tyler Green, and her race-day goals. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

These are the times! Hans Troyer joins us in the studio for his first-ever (longer form) appearance on the Singletrack Podcast.  Hans has had an exciting recent build to Western States, including a win at the Twisted Fork 30K and a training camp in Flagstaff with the Hoka team. Beyond that, on the biggest stages of the sport, he is on a roll demonstrating his greatness with a course record victory at the Black Canyon 100K back in February and an impressive win at JFK late last year.  Hans took 8th place at his debut here last June, but expectations are higher for his return. Many consider him one of the favorites for the win here and part of the cohort of superstars that could break the fabled 14-hour barrier on the course.  Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Support the show

Francesco Puppi is a professional trail runner for Hoka based outside of Lake Como, Italy. For many fans of the sport, his debut at the 100-mile distance and Western States has been long-anticipated. It's finally here and we cover the usual topics around preparation, mentality, and racing strategy for the current moment, but I also take the opportunity to ask him about current anti-doping efforts in the sport, European vs American trail media, and lessons learned from other superstars in our sport.  Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - running gear that goes the distanceKodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

Brett Hornig and Jeff Colt join the show to unpack Tom Evans' wild treadmill workout, our Western States sleeper picks, the ski brands entering the trail market, Broken Arrow hype, and whether the athlete-media landscape is changing. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - running gear that goes the distanceKodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

We discuss Gerda Steyn's "comfortable" Comrades record (and George Kusche's not-so-comfortable victory finish), Aaron Kubala's Tahoe 200 course record, Rod Farvard and Martina Valmassoi's dominant UTMB Andorra wins, Western States withdrawals from Keely Henninger and Seth Ruling, our Broken Arrow storylines to watch, Terignota's wild financials, athletes on the move (Canyon Woodward to Patagonia), Tudor's luxury trail play, and our favorite content of the week. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - running gear that goes the distanceMomentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order Kodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

We discuss athletes on the move (including, possibly, Michael Versteeg?!), Kilian Jornet's injury status, the Cocodona 250 lottery results, Tyler Andrews' Everest record, results from the Sunapee Scramble, Scout Mountain 100, and Twisted Fork Trail Festival, UTMB's latest event announcement in Vietnam, and our favorite content of the week. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelMomentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order Kodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

It was a heavy week in trail running, to say the least. Katie Schide officially withdraws from Hardrock as her foot injury rehab continues, and Kilian Korth faces season-ending surgery on a peroneus longus tendon tear that took place during this year's Cocodona 250. Then the Cam Hanes situation. After Hanes admitted to using banned peptide BPC 157 in an Instagram thread following his 2:39 Eugene Marathon, Sage Canaday filed a USADA tip. We break down the ethics of doping enforcement below the pro tier and what Cam's outsized influence on the sport means for any resolution. Plus: Rachel Entrekin's new multi-year Norda deal through 2029, Rachel Drake's record-shattering FKT on the West Grandeur Ascent, Will Peterson ending his Appalachian Trail FKT attempt at the Mason-Dixon line, ASICS opening a year-round UTMB training base in Les Houches, results from Leavenworth Trailfest and the Golden Trail World Series, plus a Twisted Fork Trail Festival preview. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelSupport the show

Carl Morris, author of "Dirtbag Dreams: A History of Mountain, Ultra and Trail Running," joins the show to discuss the past, present, and future of our community. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelMomentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order Kodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

The trail running world never sleeps! We cover race results from Zegama, Snowdonia, Ultra-Trail Australia, and Rothrock, the return of the original, single-loop course for the Tahoe 200, Caleb Olson's foray into full-time ultrarunning, and the latest from Satisfy's marketing playbook. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - running gear that goes the distanceSupport the show

Rachel Entrekin returns to the show to recap her overall course record victory at the 2026 Cocodona 250. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelMomentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order Kodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

Kilian Korth returns to the show to recap his men's race course record victory at the 2026 Cocodona 250. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelMomentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order Kodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

Alyssa Clark is back in the co-host seat for this week's edition of Singletrack News. It's a bit of a non-traditional episode as we go longer and spend the first half trading thoughts on this year's Cocodona 250. After that, we go through a brief recap of Transvulcania, a preview of Zegama and other local and international races this coming weekend + our content and gear picks of the week. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelSupport the show

Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Leah Yingling recap the 2026 Cocodona 250  - the live coverage, major takeaways, top athlete performances, the possible futures of the event, and listener takes. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelSupport the show

Solo episode! I cover Transvulcania, Aravaipa's acquisition of a few key trail events around the Grand Circle, a new book about the history of trail running, the latest results on the Skyrunning circuit, a lottery system for the Cocodona 250, and much more. Got a tip for next week's news? Shoot us a DM on Instagram. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelSupport the show

Brett Hornig returns to the show for another edition of the Long Run Archives. This time, we break down the stunning news of the week: Jim Walmsley is back on the Western States start list via a Hoka sponsor entry. After that, we share our 2026 power rankings for both the men's and women's races, which we will revisit during race week in Olympic Valley. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelKodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at this year’s Cocodona 250. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelKodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

Brett Hornig returns to the Singletrack Podcast to recap race results from Canyons, Mt Fuji, Madeira Island Ultra Trail, among other trail-related news. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelSupport the show

We discuss Sean Haworth's critique of ACG's Gorge Waterfalls activation, the four athlete development programs shaping the next generation of pro trail running, Scott Fauble's issue with supershoes in the marathon, and Climatic Health's new lung health product being marketed to endurance athletes. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelKodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

Max Jolliffe joins the podcast for his third appearance, two weeks out from his return to Cocodona 250. After dropping at mile 238 in 2025 with cellulitis, Max is back for redemption, and this time he's doing it as a full-time professional athlete after leaving Hurley in November following nearly 15 years at the company. We get into his training block, gear and nutrition strategies, and an upcoming week of course recon out of Mike Versteeg's place in Prescott. Max also walks through his experience at the BPN Backyard Ultra in the Texas hill country and makes the case for why the backyard format deserves more attention from the sport's top names. Other topics: How 15 years in graphic design and apparel at Hurley shapes the value he brings to brand partners beyond race resultsWhy race merch across the sport is a missed opportunity and what needs to changeHis new travel show concept, Weekend Training Camp, and the Salt Lake City pilot he's editing nowWhen he stopped idolizing effortless talent and started respecting visible work, and how that shift rewired what he looks for in athletesWhy he doesn't actually love racing and what draws him to multi-day events and backyard ultras insteadTime goal for Cocodona, day-one pacing philosophy, and why he's staying off the front earlyPrize money at 200s and why the math might need to change Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelKodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

Alyssa Clark joins Finn to roll through a packed news week in ultra-trail. Headlines include Ashley Paulson's 12:47:10 treadmill world record set in front of a packed Boston Marathon Expo (a 90-minute improvement on the previous mark), Mathieu Blanchard leaving Salomon to sign with Kiprun as the French brand pushes into the North American market, and a stacked Madeira Ultra Trail start list featuring Jasmine Lowther, Helen Mino Faukner, Katharina Hartmuth, Ethan Peters, and a deep American contingent.  Also on tap: weekend results from Penyagolosa, Puerto Vallarta, and Whiskey Basin, Mount Fuji hype, Ryan Becker's move to Kailas, Mammoth Trail Fest's new $6,000 para athlete prize purse, Sarah Hall's trail running plans, the death of UK runner David Parrish on the Cape Wrath Trail and the mountain competency conversation it sparks, plus Salomon's bet on gravel racing. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelSupport the show

Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at the 2026 Canyons 100K. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelMomentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order Kodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

Courtney Dauwalter returns to the Singletrack Podcast ahead of her second attempt at Cocodona 250, the race she started last year and didn't finish, to talk through everything that has happened in between. We open with the Tenerife cancellation and the scramble to pivot to Chianti, including the late surge that won the race and why she credits road marathon training for giving her a new gear she didn't know she had. From there we get into her first real reset in her ultra career, what went wrong at mile 108 at last year's Cocodona, and the one problem she's most excited to solve across day two, night two, and day three of this year's race. We close on her five year Salomon contract extension, what a post-racing chapter actually looks like to her, and what's on the bucket list beyond the three classics (Western States, Hardrock, and UTMB) she's built her career around. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelMomentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order Kodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

We're coming off one of the most action-packed single weekends of the trail running year. We recap Lake Sonoma, Gorge Waterfalls, Desert Rats by UTMB, Calamorro Skyrace, Marathon des Sables, and the BPN Backyard Ultra all in one episode with co-host Alyssa Clark. Lotti Brinks ran fifth overall at Gorge Waterfalls 100K and shattered the women's course record. Dylan Bowman suggested it might be the trail performance of the year, and we ask whether she's now a legitimate podium threat at Western States. Jennifer Lichter won the 50K against Yao Miao, the back-to-back OCC champion, by nearly four minutes, coming off a 100K course record at Black Canyon this past February. She is the truth right now. At the BPN Backyard Ultra, veteran Mike Egan used a wheelchair to complete 110 miles. When the mud got too thick to push through, he got out and dragged it. It might be the photo of the year in trail running, and we're only in April. The event pulled 19.6 million TikTok searches in its first edition, and we ask: who's building the Trail Team equivalent for backyard ultra? At Marathon des Sables, Des Linden made the podium in her desert ultra debut. We call it her arrival in the trail scene. Heather Jackson won Desert Rats 100K three weeks out from Cocodona 250. She has a vlog series called "The Season That Might Break Me" and we break down what her win means for her race at the Cocodona 250 next month. In a field she wasn't even seeded in, Jane Maus went to Spain and took second at the Calamorro Skyrace in her first official sky race ever. We also cover: Ryan Sullivan going wire-to-wire dominant at Lake Sonoma 100K (a Norda athlete from Grand Junction worth watching)Spencer Shellberg, another Grand Junction name, winning Desert Rats 100K by 40+ minutesGerda Steyn seventh win at Two Oceans, one of the most dominant ultra runners of this generationNicholas Thompson (editor-in-chief of The Atlantic) setting the 50+ American record at the Mad City 50K.Rendezvu, Faves and the case for athlete-led affiliate commerce in trail runningLucy Bartholomew running a 2:41 marathon in Paris to close out a 23-hour training weekGiven to Fly, the new Brian Morrison book on his 2006 Western States near-winPartners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelSupport the show

Christian Meier returns to the Singletrack Podcast to discuss one of the most ambitious talent development initiatives the sport has ever seen: Salomon's Next Gen program, which he leads as Head of Performance Programs. The first section covers how this role came about, what it looks like day to day, and why trail running's elite development infrastructure has lagged so far behind other endurance sports for so long. Christian takes us inside the Annecy selection camp, the evaluation process that combined lab testing, field assessments, and individual interviews, and the hard decisions involved in selecting nine athletes from seventeen candidates. The conversation then moves into the architecture of the program itself. What full-season integration with Salomon's performance structure means for a 20-year-old athlete on a Tuesday in March, what the financial picture looks like for the athletes, and how much autonomy they have over their own competitive calendars. We also compare Next Gen to Andy Wacker's Trail Team and what the spectrum of approaches to elite development tells us about what these athletes need. From there, Christian draws on his cycling background to examine what the marginal gains framework imports into trail running and where it breaks down. We discuss injury philosophy, the risk of burnout in high-performance development environments, what mental progress looks like and how you measure it, and how Christian thinks about building identity resilience into athletes who are still figuring out who they are. The final section pulls back to the questions that matter beyond this program. Whether deeper talent pipelines produce competitive parity at the top or just raise the floor, whether trail running ever develops the kind of specialized team roles that define professional cycling, and whether Christian is trying to build something Salomon owns or something the whole sport adopts. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelMomentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order Kodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

Marathon des Sables is underway in the Moroccan Sahara, and this year's field is one of the most talked-about in recent memory. Ryan Sandes, Magda Boulet, Maryline Nakache, Ludo Pommeret, Des Linden, and yes, Harry Styles are all on course across six stages and 155 miles of largely unsupported desert racing. Salomon made waves this week with the launch of their "Next Gen" program, a structured athlete development pathway for trail runners aged 18 to 25. Nine athletes were selected from 17 invitees through a rigorous process including lab testing, performance trials, and interviews. They get the full pro treatment: coaching, camps, nutrition, mental performance support, and international race entries. Christian Meier will lead the program. With Trail Team and Trail House already in the conversation stateside, we ask whether anything in the US compares. Will Peterson also announced an AT FKT attempt this spring, going northbound and self-supported, targeting 50 to 55 miles per day. Given his resume on the Long Trail and White Mountains, this is the most credible attempt of 2026 so far. We also cover: Biel Barros breaking the Speed Project Solo record (340 miles in 67:15)A full preview of Gorge Waterfalls, Lake Sonoma, Calamorro Skyrace, and the UTMB weekend racesInjury updates on Katie Schide, Caleb Olson, and Francesco Puppi (who ran a 38-minute VK in a cast)Canada moving locations for it's national trail championships through 2028What French elite trail runners actually earn, per a new survey of 74 athletes Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelSupport the show

This week on Singletrack News, Finn Melanson and Alyssa Clark cover one of the wildest race cancellations in recent memory, a brewing sponsorship controversy, a landmark change at one of ultra running's most iconic events, and a full roundup of results from Crown King, Buffalo Stampede, and the Arizona Monster 300. Timestamps: 02:54 Antelope Island Buffalo Run Cancellation05:51 Trailhouse Announces New Head Coach08:59 Emma Bates Controversy11:40 Cocodona 250 Lottery System14:46 Trail Super Shoe Power Rankings17:43 Crown King, Buffalo Stampede Race Results20:42 London Marathon Two-Day Format23:40 UTMB Parenthood Policy26:21 Content Finds of the Week Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelSupport the show

In this episode, Rachel Entrekin returns to the show immediately following her 3rd place finish at Chianti by UTMB and gives a firsthand account of one of the most dramatic finishes of the season. We start with the moment everyone’s talking about: Courtney Dauwalter’s decisive late-race surge. Rachel walks us through how the race unfolded from the front, what it felt like to be running all day shoulder-to-shoulder, and what made Courtney’s final move so shocking even to the athletes in the race. From there, we zoom out to what this performance means for Rachel’s trajectory. We discuss the narrative around her being a “200-mile specialist,” the pressure she felt coming into the race, and why this result felt like a long-overdue validation of her ability across distances. We also break down the competitive dynamics at the front of the field, including what makes both Courtney Dauwalter and Ingvild Kaspersen uniquely difficult to race against, and why Chianti stands out as the most competitive - and most enjoyable - race of Rachel’s career so far. In the second half, we get into the performance details: fueling breakthroughs (including a surprising shift toward gels), gear choices, and how improved nutrition may be unlocking a new level of speed and durability. We close with a look ahead to Cocodona and what this race might signal about Rachel’s ceiling in 2026. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelSupport the show

In this week’s edition of Singletrack News, we break down a massive weekend of racing across Chianti by UTMB, Chuckanut 50K, and Big Alta, highlighted by Golden Tickets awarded at Chianti and a highly anticipated showdown between Courtney Dauwalter and Rachel Entrekin. We discuss the winners, key performances, roll-down implications, and what it all means for the rapidly taking shape Western States field, along with early-season signals from some of the sport’s top contenders. Elsewhere, we dig into one of the most interesting new concepts in the sport: the “Trail House”, a Boulder-based initiative aiming to create a pipeline for post-collegiate runners into professional trail running, with built-in support, structure, and storytelling. We also cover:  Lotti Brinks accepting a Western States Golden Ticket via roll-down from CCC  François D’Haene’s 2026 schedule and his decision to center the season around an FKT attempt on the GR20 The “Hardcore Harry’s” challenge, a last-person-standing-style event that has athletes running 80+ km on consecutive days  A grassroots “Community Traverse” stepping in to support runners after the Northern Traverse disruption  A wild FKT story out of North Carolina involving a broken wrist and a finish anyway  Previewing the Arizona Monster 300 and what to expect from one of the most extreme races on the calendar And our content picks of the week, including a new long-distance route in the UK and a broader conversation around “right to roam” and trail access. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelSupport the show

In this episode, Centurion Running founder James Elson joins the show to unpack one of the most complex moments in trail running right now. We examine the collapse of high-profile events like Dragon’s Back and what it reveals about the economics of modern race organization - including rising operational costs, participant trends, and why certain race formats may no longer be sustainable. James also shares a behind-the-scenes look at how race directors actually think about pricing, no-show rates, and business viability.  In the second half of the conversation, we turn to UTMB and its growing influence on the sport. We discuss the tradeoffs between scale and safety, the risks of removing qualification standards, and whether the current growth model is aligned with the long-term health of trail running. We also explore who is ultimately responsible for runner preparedness, the role of media and culture in shaping expectations, and whether UTMB is, for now, still a net positive for the sport. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelMomentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order Kodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

In this week’s edition of Singletrack News, we break down a major development in the UK trail running scene after Ourea Events - the organizers behind races like Dragon’s Back, Cape Wrath Ultra, and the Northern Traverse - announced they are ceasing trading, putting several iconic races in jeopardy and leaving athletes uncertain about the future of some of the sport’s most ambitious point-to-point events. We also discuss confusion surrounding UTMB’s new broadcast partnership with FloSports. After speculation online that UTMB races could move behind a paywall, organizers clarified that the UTMB livestream will remain free, with FloSports serving as a simulcast partner in the United States. Elsewhere, we dig into UTMB’s 2026 live broadcast schedule, which includes 10 races across the World Series - but notably excludes Golden Ticket events like Chianti and Canyons. We also cover: UTMB CEO Fabrice Perrin raising concerns about “ambush marketing” in trail runningThe debut of the Big Alta 100K in Marin HeadlandsPreviewing the Chianti by UTMB Golden Ticket battleCourtney Dauwalter lining up at Tenerife Blue Trail as an early season testNike recruiting ultrarunners for a 15-week research residency at the Nike Sports Research LabAnd our content picks of the week, including a conversation between Harry Styles and Haruki Murakami on how running fuels creativity Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelKodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

In this edition of Long Run Archives, Finn Melanson is joined by Brett Hornig and Jeff Colt for a wide-ranging conversation about some of the biggest debates circulating in trail and ultrarunning right now. We begin with a viral moment from the sport: Charlie Lawrence being called out to run a backyard ultra. Could a 100K record holder actually threaten the backyard ultra world record, or is the discipline too specialized for that kind of crossover? The group discusses what determines success in the backyard format and why the event continues to fascinate runners across disciplines. Next, we explore a provocative question making the rounds online: are elite trail runners boring? Are influencers better storytellers than professional athletes, or is that narrative missing the point? Along the way we discuss historical tensions between performance and storytelling in the sport and what audiences actually respond to. In the second half of the episode, we unpack two recent race controversies: • Ultra Trail Snowdonia’s major course change after registration opened • The possibility that the historic JFK 50 Mile could move from its traditional course due to funding disputes What responsibility do race organizers have when circumstances force major changes after runners have already committed? Finally, we play a round of Overreaction / Underreaction, reacting to statements like: • Molly Seidel is already a Western States podium contender • Jen Lichter could enter the top echelon of the sport with a Western States win • Crowdfunded prize purses may surpass traditional race payouts • Kilian Jornet could still win both Western States and UTMB in the same season Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelKodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Momentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order Support the show

This is a crossover episode from Conversational Pace. Brett Hornig interviews me about my LA Marathon experience + we speculate a bit in the second half about the future of CP.  Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next orderNorda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever madeRaide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains Janji - premium trail running apparelKodiak Cakes - my favorite oatmeal and pancakes Support the show

In this week’s edition of Singletrack News, controversy erupts around the Ultra-Trail Snowdonia 100K after organizers announced a major course change - which removes roughly 2,000 meters of climbing from the originally advertised route - after the race had already sold out.  We also discuss the uncertain future of the historic JFK 50 Mile, which could relocate from Washington County, Maryland, for the first time in more than 60 years after the county ended hotel-tax funding that traditionally covered police and medical services.  Elsewhere, we break down Kilian Jornet’s 2026 season preview, including his plans to race Sierre-Zinal, Western States, and UTMB, and what he said about the training stimulus from last year’s States of Elevation project. We also cover: A chaotic finish at the USATF Half Marathon Championships after lead runners were sent off courseThe Los Angeles Marathon, where the men’s race came down to 0.18 seconds at the lineSpeedgoat by UTMB adding a new uphill raceTransgrancanaria, where Jon Albon and Henriette Albon claimed victories in brutal weatherLotti Brinks and Sean Riedel winning Way Too Cool 50KNew athlete signings - Hunter Leninger (Only Fans) and Tessa Chesser (Merrell)Hayden Hawks’ pivot to Canyons 100K and what it could mean for Western StatesCirque Series teasing a new championship formatPrize money across major trail series surpassing €1.15 millionPlus, we share our favorite content from the week, including Francesco Puppi’s latest vlog about his background, training philosophy, and upcoming projects. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/singletrack)Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/pages/singletrack)Support the show

In this episode, Kilian Korth joins the show to discuss the evolving competitive landscape of 200-mile ultramarathons. We examine whether performances at the distance can currently be used to judge greatness in the sport, how the depth of competition compares to more established races like Western States and UTMB, and what it will take for the discipline to gain broader legitimacy. Kilian also shares his own philosophy around pursuing ambitious goals, the “No Limits” mindset, and why he believes the 200-mile scene represents a collective experiment in testing the boundaries of human endurance. In the second half of the conversation, we explore Kilian’s path into the sport, his recent success across multi-day races, and the realities of racing at this distance - from sleep strategy and pacing philosophy to logistics, fueling, and managing the psychological demands of moving for multiple days. We also discuss the role of competition in pushing the sport forward, the future of races like Cocodona, and how the next generation of athletes may redefine what’s possible in 200-mile racing. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/singletrack)Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/pages/singletrack)Support the show

In this week’s edition of Singletrack News, Kilian Jornet announces he’ll attempt the Western States–UTMB double in 2026, reviving a strategy some thought was fading from elite playbooks.  We also examine Ironman’s decision to ban in-race content creation, including smart glasses, GoPros, and phones. Is this about safety, competitive fairness, or the beginning of a broader shift in endurance sports culture? Could trail running follow? Elsewhere, we break down Abby Levine’s analysis of the Western States 2026 field - including the surprising stat about back-to-back women’s champions, the depth emerging from Golden Ticket races like Black Canyon and CCC, and what still remains up for grabs at Chianti and Canyons. Plus: Chuckanut announces a first-ever livestream in partnership with Mountain OutpostTransgrancanaria previewNike ACG’s experimental “smallest backyard ultra” activation in MilanITRA’s 2025 Women in Trail Running participation reportAravaipa launches The Cutoff film tourUTMB postpones its Puerto Vallarta event following regional unrest Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/singletrack)Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/pages/singletrack)Support the show

In this episode, Max King reflects on his experience at the Barkley Marathons and why he now views it as a multi-year project rather than a one-off attempt. He breaks down the realities of navigation, collaboration, foot care, cold exposure, and the mental calculus required to decide whether to continue deeper into the course. In the second half of the conversation, Max discusses where he sits in his career at 45, how his relationship with competition has evolved, and what it means to keep racing while letting go of certain expectations. He talks about durability, motivation, adapting training as an aging athlete, shifting sponsorship dynamics, and the balance between performance and adventure. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/singletrack)Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/pages/singletrack)Momentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order (https://livemomentous.com/)  Support the show

In this week’s edition of Singletrack News, Ashley Paulson runs 12:19 at the Jackpot 100 to set a new 100-mile world record, averaging 7:34 pace and continuing the rapid evolution of speed at the distance. We discuss the course dynamics, surface differences from Tunnel Hill, and what this means for the future of flat-course ultras. We also unpack a very public dispute in the performance apparel space after Satisfy founder Brice Partouche shared private messages accusing emerging brand Currently of copying product designs. Where’s the line between inspiration and imitation, and are there winners in a social-media-fueled fallout? Elsewhere, ski mountaineering makes its Olympic debut with trail crossover athletes Cam Smith and Ana Gibson narrowly missing the podium, Golden Trail doubles down on global expansion and broadcast ambitions, and Gorge Waterfalls releases the full breakdown of its $75,000 prize purse. Plus: a new 200-miler called the Maine Moose Ultra is announced for 2027 with significant local backing, Desert Rats expands access through the North American Para Trail Summit, and the skyrunning season begins. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/singletrack)Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/pages/singletrack)Support the show

What a wild weekend in the Arizona desert. Brett Hornig and Leah Yingling return to the show to break down everything that unfolded at the 2026 Black Canyon 100K. We dive into course-record performances from Hans Troyer and Jennifer Lichter, Anne Flower’s front-running strength, Anthony Costales’ return to form, the drama of Molly Seidel’s 100K debut, and one of the deepest Golden Ticket distributions in recent memory. Timestamps: 00:00 Opening + On-the-Ground Experience (Livestream, Aid Stations, 50K PR)04:34 “Course Records Are Contagious” - Women’s Race Explodes06:47 Anne Flower’s No-Cooling Strategy + Heat Management Debate10:18 Is This the Most Competitive Women’s Western States Field Ever?11:14 Hans Troyer’s Course Record + Race Dynamics13:06 Golden Ticket Chaos in the Men’s Field16:20 Depth vs. Density - Are Fields Actually Getting Tighter?16:47 Split Analysis: Men vs. Women Slowdown Percentages22:49 Molly Seidel’s Mid-Race Mistakes + “Controlled Micro Fade”26:49 Is Gloriana - Deep Canyon the Most Dangerous Section?29:50 “Random Ballers” + No Intimidation at the Start Line33:59 How Many Guys Could’ve Run Sub-7:30?36:07 Fantasy Picks + Predictions (Sub-8 Call)37:33 Underrated Performances: Tracen Knopp, Hans’ Next-Gen Status43:00 Tara Dower Interview + Emotional Finish Line Moments49:39 Anthony Costales Is Back50:47 Francesco Puppi’s Fall + What It Means for Western States53:29 Gear Talk + 50K Pace Explosion55:29 Golden Ticket Impact on Western States 202658:28 Who Still Needs a Ticket? (Chianti / Canyons)1:00:10 Final Thoughts - Media, Molly’s Impact, The Women’s Depth Partners: * Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack) * Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/) * Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/singletrack) * Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/pages/singletrack) Support the show

In one of the most action-packed weekends of ultrarunning in recent memory, we followed Tarawera, Black Canyon, and the Barkley Marathons as they unfolded simultaneously. Jeff Colt joins the show to break it all down. We also cover the PTRA’s advisory vote on pacing at championship-level races, crowdfunded prize purses, Outside Interactive’s profitability, the 603 Endurance sale to Marathon Sports, Mount to Coast’s pro team announcement, and Broken Arrow’s Trail Futures initiative. Timestamps: 00:00 Black Canyon 100K + 50K Highlights04:04 Tarawera 102K Insights08:06 Barkley Marathons Update12:08 Crowdfunded Prize Purse Initiative15:54 Pacer Vote and Its Implications19:58 Outside Interactive's Profitability23:57 603 Endurance Acquisition25:46 Mount to Coast Team Announcement Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/singletrack)Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/pages/singletrack)Support the show

Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at this year’s Black Canyon 100K. Timestamps: 02:12 Black Canyon 100K Storylines05:35 Training Strategies and Race Day Tactics10:13 Course Characteristics, Projected Weather Conditions 19:06 Race Execution and Aid Station Strategies35:33 Women's Field Analysis58:40  Men's Field Analysis01:27:06 Final Thoughts and Race Day Responsibilities Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/singletrack)Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/pages/singletrack)Momentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order (https://livemomentous.com/)  Additional Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

This is the February 9th, 2026 edition of Singletrack News. Timestamps: 01:28 Golden Trail World Series Schedule Announcement05:44 Sky Running Series Announcement09:17 Tarawera 102K12:54 New UTMB Race at Snowbasin17:25 David Goggins signs up for Cocodona19:31 Debate on Pacer-Free Golden Tickets22:41 Diadorra's Sub Four Mile Challenge Announcement25:33 Prize Money News27:56 Open Athlete Manager role at The Feed30:58 Courtney Dauwalter to Naak33:56 Jennifer Lichter, Adam Merry, Meg McKenzie moves36:20 Bear Tags and Silver Tickets38:45 Opportunities for Involvement in Trail Running Organizations Partners: Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/singletrack)Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/pages/singletrack)Support the show

In this conversation, Sabrina Stanley reflects on returning to competition after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer at the peak of her ultrarunning career. She recounts the medical uncertainty that followed her initial diagnosis, the surgeries, chemotherapy, and ongoing immunotherapy that reshaped more than a year of her life. Stanley discusses racing again while still in recovery, including her recent return at the Arc of Attrition 100, and what it meant to simply reach the start line. She also speaks candidly about her complicated relationship with the sport itself -why she doesn’t closely follow ultrarunning, how she intentionally limits her exposure to public opinion, and how she has built a professional career largely insulated from external narratives. The conversation touches on her partnership with OnlyFans, her views on athlete autonomy and body regulation, and the tradeoffs of stepping outside traditional sponsorship models while continuing to pursue elite performance. Timestamps: 00:00 Sabrina's Unique Perspective on Ultra Running06:14 The Misunderstood World of OnlyFans12:03 The Impact of Ovarian Cancer on Sabrina's Career24:30 Navigating Cancer and Social Connections27:55 Training Through Treatment: A Personal Journey39:01 The Ongoing Battle: Living with Uncertainty44:56 Racing Again, Arc of Attrition 100 Miler Partners: Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/singletrack)Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/)Support the show

In this episode, Olympic medalist Molly Seidel reflects on the aftermath of success at the highest level of the sport. She discusses the pressures of elite marathoning, why that model became unsustainable, and the personal decisions that led her away from the roads. The conversation touches on injury, identity, sponsorship, social media, and the early stages of her transition into trail running. Timestamps: 00:00 The Influence of Business School on Personal Growth03:02 Redefining Success in Running05:52 The Unsustainable Nature of Elite Sports09:01 Navigating Pressure and Performance12:01 The Challenge of Public Perception14:54 Building a Life Beyond Running17:56 The Artistic Side of Sport20:40 Transitioning to Trail Running23:54 The Business of Being a Professional Runner26:41 The Impact of Social Media on Athletes29:49 Comparing Media Coverage in Running35:46 Training Philosophy and Mental Game38:54 Nutrition and Gear for Trail Racing41:45 Looking Ahead to Future Races Partners: Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/singletrack)Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/) Support the show

In the first-ever edition of Singletrack News, Finn Melanson and co-host Alyssa Clark break down the biggest stories in trail running from the past week. We start with Sabrina Stanley’s return to racing after a year away from the sport, react to Molly Seidel’s decisive leap into trail running, and discuss what it means to see Courtney Dauwalter carrying the Olympic torch as trail running’s profile continues to rise. Plus: major race results from around the world, notable performances, sponsorship news, and a look at where the sport is heading as competition and professionalization continue to accelerate. Singletrack News is our weekly news and conversation show covering the stories, debates, and moments shaping trail and ultrarunning right now. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Singletrack News01:07 Sabrina Stanley's Comeback02:31 Courtney Dauwalter Carries Olympic Torch03:43 Gambling Scandal in Track and Field06:05 Podcast Highlights: Coleman Cragun and Ben Dhiman09:41 Anne Flower Signs with Hoka, Grayson Murphy Leaves Saucony14:48 UTMB's Future18:45 Results Rundown: Hurt 100 and Winter Spine, Hong Kong 100K28:00 Notable Performances: Molly Seidel, Rachel Entrekin, Erin Ton31:18 Final Thoughts  Partners: Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/singletrack)Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/)Support the show

In this episode of the Singletrack Podcast, I sit down with Andy Blow, CEO and founder of Precision Fuel & Hydration, for a wide-ranging conversation about what athletes at all levels still get wrong about fueling and hydration in ultrarunning.  A note up front: Precision Fuel & Hydration is a major partner of the Singletrack Podcast — a partnership we’re proud of and want to fully disclose. That said, this conversation isn’t contractually obligated. It’s the exact discussion I would want to have with Andy regardless, driven by a growing curiosity around nutrition, technology, and performance in endurance sports. Andy brings a deep and unique background to the conversation, with a degree in Sports & Exercise Science from the University of Bath, experience working as a sports scientist with Formula 1 teams, and a role helping establish the Porsche Human Performance Centre before founding Precision Fuel & Hydration. We explore both fundamentals and frontiers, including: Why many ultrarunners — including elite athletes — succeed despite gaps in nutrition knowledgeCore hydration concepts like sweat rate, sweat sodium concentration, and blood volume contractionThe danger of chasing marginal gains before mastering the basicsWhy real-time sweat tech still isn’t quite ready for prime time “Ballpark accuracy” vs perfect precision in fueling and hydrationAid-station decision-making, guardrails, and crew strategy in ultra racesThe emerging challenges of fueling and hydrating for multi-day eventsI learned a lot in this one, and hope you do too. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/)Support the show

In this edition of Long Run Archives, we talk about: Arlen Glick’s departure from Craft Sportswear, whether mental toughness is often overstated, and that physical fitness is what truly wins races, the idea of "super-domestiques" in ultra, Ben Dhiman vs the Boulder Boys, and media narratives around 200-mile "specialists". Chapters: 00:00 — Arlen Glick’s Departure from Craft06:57 — Could Ultrarunning Ever Have a Smut TV Series?23:03 — Is Mental Toughness Overrated in Ultrarunning?29:56 — Mental Warfare and Training Philosophy32:45 — Community Support as a Competitive Advantage35:39 — Training Partners: Breakthrough or Burnout?39:20 — Pacing Ethics and Team Tactics in Ultrarunning53:39 — Ben Dhiman vs. the Boulder Boys1:03:30 — What Makes a 200-Mile Specialist?1:13:30 — Media Narratives, Visibility, and Performance Metrics Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/)Momentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order (https://livemomentous.com/)  Additional Links: Arlen Glick Strava PostFollow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Brett Hornig and Mike McMonagle join the show to reflect on the 2025 Ultrarunner of the Year and Trail Runner of the Year rankings, plus some way-too-early hype for our showdown at this year's Bear 100. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/)Momentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order (https://livemomentous.com/)  Additional Links: Follow Mike on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

In this annual State of Singletrack episode, Finn Melanson sits down with longtime collaborator Scott Hickenlooper to reflect on where Singletrack has been, what defined 2025 from multiple angles, and how the business, media projects, and personal priorities are evolving heading into 2026. The conversation covers why the State of Singletrack format exists, how Finn thinks about transparency and building in public, and what listening habits and creative influences shaped the show over the past year. Finn looks back on the biggest accomplishments of 2025, including the release of Singletrack’s first feature-length film The Finisher and the launch of Twisted Fork Trail Festival, while also addressing where things fell short, from missed product ideas to community initiatives that never fully materialized. The episode examines the realities of building a trail running media company, including the fragility of sponsorship-driven business models, how partnerships are structured, and why diversification through events and race coverage has become essential. Finn and Scott also discuss the growth of Singletrack’s YouTube channel, the challenges of sustaining that momentum, and open questions around future video projects and personal storytelling. Looking ahead, Finn shares what excites him most about 2026, including Jules Campanelli joining Singletrack full-time, upcoming race directing responsibilities, coverage plans for major events, and his own racing focus on Scout Mountain 100 and the Bear 100. The episode closes with audience questions, reflections on how Finn’s perspective on the sport has changed, advice for aspiring creators and athletes, and a look at dream interviews that remain at the top of the wish list. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/)Support the show

Rachel Entrekin joins the show to discuss how 200 mile racing strategy has changed, what it now takes to compete at the front of the sport, and her transition to being a full time professional in the sport. Timestamps: 01:15 Burrito League, community running, and doing silly things for fun06:30 Transitioning to life as a full-time professional runner12:00 Recovery, sleep, and why high mileage feels different now15:30 Training and connecting with other 200-mile athletes19:30 Confidence, humility, and learning to own performance23:00 Trash talk, entertainment, and race build-up narratives27:00 Cocodona 250 dynamics and racing alone at the front32:00 Gender categories and competitiveness in 200-mile racing36:00 Why conservative racing no longer works41:00 Tactical lessons learned from Mammoth 20045:00 What it will take to win future 200-mile races49:00 Advice for athletes debuting at the 200-mile distance56:00 Studying live streams and learning from the sport1:01:00 Vibe-based racing versus optimization1:06:30 Longevity, visibility, and a late-career breakthrough1:10:00 Old-school racing culture and the Plain 100 Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/)Momentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order (https://livemomentous.com/)  Additional Links: Follow Rachel on Instagram, StravaFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Alyssa Clark comment on some of the most pressing issues in trail running today - including whether Hardrock is “cooked,” the debate around separate starts at races like UTMB, and what the future holds for the World Trail Majors. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)Janji - premium trail running apparel (https://janji.com/)Momentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order (https://livemomentous.com/)  Additional Links: Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Alyssa on Instagram, Strava, Website Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

In this episode of the Singletrack Podcast, I chat with sport scientist and physiologist Geoff Burns to unpack one of the biggest open questions in trail running right now: why shoe technology hasn’t produced a single, decisive “Vaporfly moment” on the trails - and whether it ever will. Geoff explains why trail running is fundamentally different from road running when it comes to performance gains. While road shoes can be optimized for straight-line efficiency on uniform surfaces, trail shoes operate in a far more complex system - one shaped by uneven terrain, gradients, stability demands, traction, weight, and constantly changing conditions  Geoff explains: * Why super-shoe logic breaks down on trails * The real role of foams, plates, and energy return off-road * Why shoe tech gains often disappear on uphill, downhill, or technical terrain * Whether trail shoes are nearing saturation—or still wide open for innovation * How weight, traction, durability, and stability compete with pure efficiency * Why different trail races may require entirely different “optimal” shoes * What shoe tech might be changing in the sport Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Momentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order (https://livemomentous.com/) deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.Support the show

What actually changed with David Roche’s YouTube content and why did it work when so many running vlogs and films don’t? In this episode of the Singletrack Podcast, I’m joined by running filmmaker and YouTube creator Jeff Pelletier for a deep, behind-the-scenes conversation about how trail running content is evolving and what Roche’s Western States series revealed about the platform. We break down why YouTube rewards long-term storytelling over one-off films, how stakes and failure can be more compelling than winning, and why personality-driven channels consistently outperform brand-owned media. Jeff explains why Roche’s rollout felt like a masterclass, how it changed expectations for branded content, and what brands, athletes, and creators still get wrong about YouTube. We also discuss: * Why most running brands fail on YouTube * How narrative arcs and episodic structure drive retention * The difference between short-form and long-form impact * Why YouTube is becoming the new television for endurance sports * What the next era of trail running media might look like Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Momentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order (https://livemomentous.com/) deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.Support the show

Our annual Ultrarunning Year in Review is here! I'm joined by Brett Hornig and Leah Yingling to break down everything that defined the sport this year: the performances that reshaped the hierarchy, the storylines that sparked debate, and the trends that may permanently change how ultrarunning operates heading into 2026. Topics include: The biggest ultrarunning storylines of 2025Breakout performances and unsung heroesThe most dramatic races and moments of the yearComeback athletes and rookie standoutsSurprising results that rewrote expectationsThe rise of agents, Substack, and athlete mediaBrand wins, sponsorship shifts, and product momentsWhat 2025 tells us about the future of the sportThanks for tuning in! As always, this conversation is subjective, North American ultra-biased, and built for debate -  so we want to hear from you. What did we get right - and what did we miss? What moments defined 2025 for you? Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Momentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order (https://livemomentous.com/) deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase. Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Big news from Singletrack and Massif Running — we are the new owners and race directors of the Antelope Island Buffalo Run. Sign up here. One of Utah’s most iconic trail races, the Buffalo Run has been a cornerstone of the Wasatch trail running community for nearly 20 years. Founded by longtime race director Jim Skaggs, the event has always been about more than racing — it’s been a spring running party, a reunion, and a race that welcomes everyone from first-timers to lifelong ultrarunners. In this episode, Finn Melanson is joined by Singletrack producer Scott Hickenlooper to share: * Why Singletrack/Massif Running decided to take over the Buffalo Run * What will stay the same — and what will evolve — under new ownership * The history and legacy of the event on Antelope Island * Course details, races distances, and why this is one of the fastest and most unique trail races in the Mountain West * How this fits into Singletrack’s long-term vision for trail running in Utah Registration is officially open for 2026 Antelope Island Buffalo Run! Sign up here. Partners: Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.  Support the show

Scott Frey of Cerebral Performance joins the show for a deep dive into the next frontier of athletic performance. Scott believes the biggest breakthroughs of the coming decade won’t come from physiology alone, but from the brain and psychological sciences - and that belief anchors this conversation. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Momentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order (https://livemomentous.com/) deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase. Additional Links: Cerebral PerformanceFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Nick Thompson joins the show to talk about use cases for AI in ultra-trail running, the concept of technology doping, urban design for run commuting, his new book The Running Ground, and some of his fairly low-key favorite races in the sport -including the Escarpment, the Twisted Branch 100K, and more. Chapters: 02:00 The Intersection of AI and Ultra Running05:10 Exploring the Role of Technology in Training08:12 The Future of Coaching in the Age of AI10:59 Urban Design and Run Commuting14:08 The Impact of Analytics on Sports20:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Running31:44 The Complexity of Commitment in Sports37:11 The Luddite Perspective on Modernity38:55 Sketches of Meaningful Lives43:12 Post-Traumatic Growth and Resilience45:54 Ambition vs. Spiritual Awakening53:32 Exploring Off-the-Beaten-Path Races57:42 Influencing Public Figures in Ultra Running Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Precision Fuel and Hydration - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout for 15% off your next order (https://www.precisionhydration.com/planner/?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=singletrack)Momentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order (https://livemomentous.com/) deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase. Additional Links: Follow Nick on LinkedIn, The Running GroundFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Brett Hornig and Jeff Colt return to the show to discuss the advent of the "Vertical" Backyard Ultra and recap the results at Ultra Trail Cape Town and the JFK 50, which took place this past weekend. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Momentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order (https://livemomentous.com/) deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase. Additional Links: Mount Ascutney Vertical Backyard, CalibreFollow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

First up, Tim Tollefson returns to the show. In some ways, trail running is still having its “What Are We Even Doing?” moment. Through that lens, we take a look at the UTMB era, the rise of pro circuits, what the pros care about, and what happens when a grassroots sport takes bigger steps towards big-time structure. After that, I'm joined by Alyssa Clark for a roundup of trail running business news and ideation. Enjoy! Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Momentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order (https://livemomentous.com/) deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase. Additional Links: Follow Tim on Instagram, Strava, Mammoth Trail FestFollow Alyssa on Instagram, Strava, Website Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Jim Walmsley returns to the Singletrack Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation. We walk down memory lane, reflect on the World Championships, dig into his insights from Western States and UTMB, riff on his idea for a “Black Shorts Series,” and explore his training theories for success in the constantly evolving world of ultra-trail running. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Momentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order (https://livemomentous.com/) deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase. Additional Links: Follow Jim on Instagram, StravaFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Will Murray joins the Singletrack Podcast fresh off his dominant, course-record victory at the 2025 Javelina Jundred. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Momentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order (https://livemomentous.com/) deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase. Additional Links: Follow Will on StravaFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

David Roche returns to the Singletrack Podcast fresh off his 12:18, second-place performance at the Javelina Jundred. In addition to the race report, David dives into how high-carb fueling, recovery science, and fearless pacing are rewriting what’s possible in trail and ultrarunning, why overtraining and under-fueling are essentially the same thing, how athletes like Will Murray, Canyon Woodward, and Tara Dower are redefining performance ceilings, and what the next five years of the sport might look like. Beyond the science, David opens up about aging in the sport, balancing family life with competition, and rediscovering joy in racing after the pressure of Western States. He shares lessons from his YouTube “Road to Western States” series, what he learned from stepping back, and how he and Megan Roche plan to rebuild their creative work heading into 2026. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Momentous - use code SINGLETRACK for up to 35% off your first order (https://livemomentous.com/) deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20)Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase. Additional Links: Follow David on Instagram, Website, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

After setting a course record at 2025 Javelina Jundred, Tara Dower joins the Singletrack Podcast to talk about the strategy behind perhaps her biggest win yet — and how she’s using it to fuel a Western States comeback in 2026. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) Additional Links: Follow Tara on Instagram, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Finn Melanson and Brett Hornig share their observations from all the racing action at yesterday’s Javelina Jundred. They discuss Tara Dower’s massive course-record performance, how all three men’s podium finishers — Will Murray, David Roche, and Canyon Woodward — shattered the previous marks, and what it all means for the Western States 100 Golden Ticket Series. They also analyze this year’s livestream numbers, highlight their favorite racing moments, and explore how the 2025 edition of Javelina might redefine what’s possible on the desert course. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) Additional Links: Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at this year’s Javelina Jundred. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) Additional Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Trail running is growing fast — but is the money for athlete deals keeping up? In this episode, athlete agent Kelly Newlon returns to the show to unpack the latest economics behind athlete-brand partnerships in 2025. From $10K rookie contracts to six-figure base deals, Kelly breaks down who’s getting paid, why it’s finally improving for pros, and which brands and races hold the most weight in negotiations. We cover: How athlete compensation has shifted in the last two yearsWhat brands actually value — and why some athletes still get left outThe rise of non-endemic deals (cars, banks, healthcare)If you’ve always been curious about what “contract season” really looks like in trail running, this is a great look inside. Additional Episodes: #355 - Tara Dower Signs Ground-Breaking Deal with Altra (Our Analysis)#135 - Kelly Newlon | Real Athlete Diets, Crewing FKT Projects, Athlete Sponsorship Thoughts Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) Events: Register for the 2026 Buffalo RunRegister for 2026 Twisted Fork Trail Festival Additional Links: Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonFollow Kelly on Instagram, Website, LinkedInSupport the show

Brett Hornig and Jeff Colt return to the show, sharing insights from the World Trail Championships in Canfranc, highlights from the inaugural year at The Mammoth, and their favorite internet finds of the week. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Earlier this month, Jeff Garmire set a new self-supported fastest known time (FKT) on the Appalachian Trail: 45 days, 8 hours, 37 minutes. He shaved more than three hours off Joe McConaughy’s 2017 mark—long regarded as one of the most impressive endurance feats in ultrarunning. With that context, I was excited to have Jeff on the podcast to unpack the experience. We cover the essentials—gear, logistics, nutrition, training—but also go deeper. Jeff shares his background and motivations, and we explore the financial and sponsorship side of attempting something that requires stepping away from the rest of your life for nearly seven weeks. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Jeff on Instagram, Podcast, Trevor ProjectFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

In this edition of the Long Run Archives, we talk about the rise of agents in ultra-trail running, our takeaways from UTMB week, the increasing allure of the fastest known time scene, our dream co-hosts on this show, and some cool tech that has arrived at Singletrack HQ (spoiler alert: Tymewear). Chapters 00:00 The Role of Agents in Athletics20:40 The Mahoosuc Traverse, personal projects vs racing38:38 UTMB Highlights and Stats01:07:58 The Appalachian Trail 01:14:04 Influences and Inspirations in Ultra Running Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Tom Evans joins the show fresh off his victory at the 2025 UTMB. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Ruth Croft joins the show fresh off her victory at the 2025 UTMB. With this win, she completed the trifecta of finals victories (adding to her titles at CCC and OCC). In this conversation, we briefly reflect on the race but also take some time to explore her background and the transformative decisions she’s made to reach this moment. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Ruth on Instagram, StravaFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Hillary Gerardi joins us in our Chamonix studio during UTMB week for a wide-ranging conversation. We talk about her skyrunning career, setting a FKT on Mont Blanc, the modern history of the Chamonix valley, differences between French and American culture, and the risks, uncertainties, and small windows of opportunity that define some of her most memorable mountain projects. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Hillary on Instagram, StravaFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Anton Krupicka returns to the show in person at our Chamonix studio, where we dive into his history with UTMB, his new role at La Sportiva, skyrunning, the Grand Teton, and the increasing appeal of backyard endurance projects. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Anton on Instagram, Strava, SubstackFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Michael Versteeg is racing UTMB on Friday. We hosted him for a long-form conversation at our Chamonix studio and somehow didn’t spend much time talking about that fact at all. Instead, we covered topics like public lands, the Barkley Marathons, building houses, his deep connection to Cocodona, following curiosity wherever it leads, and the importance of checking obsession. Enjoy! Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Michael on Instagram, BlogFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Fresh off a transformative victory at Western States earlier this summer, Abby Hall returns to the show ahead of UTMB. We discuss her decision to take on the sport's de facto 100-mile world championship, the afterglow winning one of ultrarunning's biggest races, her relentless pursuit of excellence at the sharp end of competition, and - of course - the importance of curating the perfect playlist for the journey around the rooftop of Europe. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Abby on Instagram, StravaFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Lucy Bartholomew has been a model of consistency at UTMB in recent years, steadily raising her game as women’s ultrarunning enters a new era of performance. In this conversation, we cover a wide range of topics—from one of the most exciting 100-milers in her backyard (the GPT100), to her experience crewing Ryan Sandes at the Cocodona 250, to Salomon’s High Performance System, and her own process for chasing the next level in Chamonix. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Lucy on Instagram, StravaFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Max Jolliffe is in Chamonix—and that was all the excuse we needed to sit down for a chat at our Chamonix studio. In this conversation, we reflect on our shared experiences at the Cocodona 250, look ahead to our reunion at The Mammoth next month, talk about playing the content game, and discuss the outlook for a professional career in ultrarunning. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Max on Instagram, Youtube, and StravaFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

For the first time since 2017, Katie Schide will not be racing of the UTMB World Series final events. Instead, she's set to represent Team USA at the Long Trail World Championships in Canfranc, Spain next month. It felt like the perfect moment to catch up. In this wide-ranging conversation, we talk about her recent results at Hardrock and Sierre-Zinal, her history with stage racing, the prospect of elite-only race fields, her career progression, and the unique allure of Vermont's Long Trail.  Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Katie on Instagram and StravaFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Ben Dhiman returns to the show ahead of ultra-trail running's de facto 100 mile championship, Ultra-Trail Du Mont Blanc (UTMB). Fresh off a course record at Lavredo and an impressive multi-year stretch in the sport, he arrives in Chamonix as one of the most intriguing contenders in the field. In this conversation, we dive into his nomadic background, training philosophy, and whether his third attempt at UTMB will finally be the breakthrough on the sport's biggest stage. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Ben on Instagram, Substack, and StravaFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Tom Evans returns to the show for a wide-ranging conversation on his return to Ultra-Trail Du Mont Blanc (UTMB), the joys of fatherhood, his favorite events on the UK trail running circuit, and the long-term development of ultrarunning as a professional sport.  Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Tom on Instagram, StravaFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Dani Moreno returns to the show ahead of the 2025 CCC, taking place next Friday in Chamonix, France. We discuss her philosophy of boldness, the landmark performances that could push the sport forward, and the mentality required to line up at high-caliber races in the UTMB World Series. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Dani on Instagram, Strava, SubHubFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

In this clip from the latest edition of the Long Run Archives on the Singletrack Podcast, Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Jeff Colt discuss new angles on races like Western States and Hardrock, "course record pace", and a new media opportunity in the works for pro ultrarunners. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

In this clip from the latest edition of the Long Run Archives on the Singletrack Podcast, Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Jeff Colt discuss a fascinating hypothetical scenario: If you were starting a brand-new ultrarunning company (whether shoes, gear, nutrition, or anything else), and every athlete in the market was a free agent, which four would you prioritize adding to your team, and why?  The trio explores the spectrum from pure performance athletes to influential figures—and the hybrids who bridge both worlds—as they build their dream rosters featuring familiar names such as Courtney Dauwalter, Katie Schide, Lucy Bartholomew, Jamil Coury, and Billy Yang.  Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Andrew Drummond returns to the Singletrack Podcast, this time to recount his latest adventure: setting a Fastest Known Time on the White Mountains Direttissima, one of New England's iconic multi-day routes.  We explore the aesthetics of the route, what inspired him to return after his previous attempts in 2016 and 2024, his strategies around gear, nutrition, rest, and the execution that led to his new record.  Additionally, we discuss the New England trail running scene, John Kelly's recent Appalachian Trail activity, the stylistic differences between supported and unsupported FKTs, and the segment challenges sponsored by Run The Whites.  It's always great catching up with Andrew—hope you enjoy the conversation! Timestamps: 00:00 Reconnecting After Three Years09:06 White Mountains Direttissima20:48 Gear Evolution and Preparation for the Route45:30 Mental and Physical Challenges of Multi-Day Hiking52:29 Personality Types in Multi-Day Adventures01:01:40 Training for Multi-Day Efforts01:14:46 Kilian Jornet's Potential Impact on the Northeast01:17:29 Shifts in FKT Strategies on the Appalachian Trail01:41:21 Underappreciated Routes in the White Mountains Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (https://www.gorewear.com/) to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Andrew on Instagram, YouTube, White Mountain Ski CoFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Topher Gaylord is the newly appointed President of the Western States Endurance Run—arguably the most iconic ultramarathon in the world. A seven-time WSER finisher, Topher brings decades of experience in global outdoor industry leadership and a deep well of insight from more than 75 ultramarathons run across the globe. In this conversation, we discuss: – The direction he wants to steer Western States in – His views on the Golden Ticket Series and how it’s evolving – How he processed recent controversies with UTMB – The tension between commercialization and community in trail running – What excites him most about the future of the sport We also talk about his upcoming keynote at TrailCon and how he plans to honor the rich legacy of WSER while preparing it for what’s next. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

In this live pre-race episode of the Singletrack Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Scott Jurek back to the show—recorded in-person from our studio in Olympic Valley, CA, just days before the 2025 Western States 100. For many, Scott needs no introduction. A seven-time winner of Western States, bestselling author, and true icon of the sport, his impact on trail and ultrarunning is undeniable. But this conversation goes far beyond race results and podiums. We explore the evolution of the Western States 100, how the atmosphere, competition, and culture of the race have changed since his last win here in 2005, and what he notices most when returning to the event now as a mentor, supporter, and observer. Scott also opens up about his day-to-day life in the sport today—how he stays involved, what his professional pursuits look like post-competition, and what’s still fueling his fire. Plus, we revisit some of the emotional terrain we covered in our 2024 conversation: athletic identity, the process of letting go, and how to maintain joy and purpose in the sport long after your competitive peak. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Jim Walmsley returns to the Singletrack Podcast for a live, in-person conversation from our Olympic Valley, CA studio during Western States week—only this time, he’s not lining up to race. In this exclusive interview, Jim opens up about his decision to bow out of the 2025 Western States 100, offering insight into what went into that choice and where his mind and body are at as one of the most iconic runners in the sport. Whether it’s lingering fatigue, long-term goals, or a strategic reset, Jim shares what fans need to know. We also talk about the future: Will he be back at Western States in 2026 or beyond? What would it take to pull him back to the start line in Olympic Valley? And what does he still hope to accomplish at this race? In the second half of the conversation, Jim brings his deep course knowledge and competitive experience to bear in analyzing this year’s men’s field. Who are the biggest threats? What splits might signal a historic performance? Are we on the cusp of seeing another course record—or perhaps a completely new racing style emerge? Jim is not just a generational athlete, but also one of the sharpest minds in ultrarunning. This episode is part reflection, part analysis, and part look forward—an essential conversation for anyone invested in the past, present, and future of the Western States 100. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Caleb Olson joins the Singletrack Podcast crew in our Auburn, CA, studio to recap his victory at the 2025 Western States 100.  Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Abby Hall joins the Singletrack Podcast crew in our Auburn, CA, studio to recap her victory at the 2025 Western States 100.  Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Des Linden joins us live in Olympic Valley the week before the 2025 Western States 100 for a wide-ranging conversation about her deepening relationship with the trail and ultrarunning scene. In this episode, we dig into Des's recent adventures off-road — from training with Ruth Croft in New Zealand, to participating in the Western States Training Camp last month, to her pacing duties this year for Joe McConaughy. With each step into the trail world, Des seems to be signaling that this chapter of her career is just getting started. We talk about whether Des envisions a full pivot to trail running, what she still wants to accomplish on the roads (including any future marathons), and how events like Tunnel Hill 50 in November fit into her overall vision for the next few years. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

We’re live in Olympic Valley, CA for a special Western States Week edition of Long Run Archives, with pro trail runner Hayden Hawks joining regular co-hosts Brett Hornig, Jeff Colt, and Finn Melanson in the Singletrack Podcast studio for a wide-ranging, spirited conversation on the state of trail and ultrarunning, as well as Hayden's status in the sport. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Marianne Hogan is one of the fiercest and most resilient athletes in the world of ultra-trail running. With podium finishes at both Western States and UTMB, she’s already proven she can perform on the sport’s biggest stages. But that elusive win — that signature victory — still hangs just out of reach. Live from our Olympic Valley studio in the week leading up to the 2025 Western States 100, Marianne sits down to talk about her ongoing pursuit of greatness in a sport where comebacks are often part of the path. In this conversation, we explore what it’s going to take for her to not only return to the Western States podium but to stand on top of it. We ask: Is this the year? And if so, what does she think it will take — physically, mentally, and tactically — to win?  Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at this year’s women's field at the Western States 100. With big names like Katie Schide (2024 Champion) and Courtney Dauwalter (2023 Champion) not returning, the fight for the win is wide open. Tune in as we break it all down and get you hyped for race day.  Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

In this special live episode of the Singletrack Podcast, we sit down with Abby Hall in our Olympic Valley studio just days before the 2025 Western States 100. Abby’s path back to the start line of this iconic race is anything but typical—and it’s a story of resilience, determination, and a little bit of fate. After enduring a traumatic injury in 2023 that sidelined her from the sport she loves, Abby made a courageous return to racing at UTMB last summer before chasing golden tickets across two continents this past spring. We unpack her gritty performances at the Black Canyon 100K and Chianti Ultra Trail, and how an unexpected turn of events ultimately secured her spot on this year’s Western States start line. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Rod Farvard joins the Singletrack Podcast live from our Olympic Valley, CA studio during Western States race week to discuss what it really takes to compete at the highest level in trail and ultrarunning—and why he may be the biggest threat to the Western States crown in 2025. In 2024, Rod turned heads by going toe-to-toe with one of the sport’s greatest athletes, Jim Walmsley, at the Western States 100. His fearless front-running and relentless pace put him on the radar of fans and competitors alike. Now, with another year of focused training, refined systems, and added motivation, Rod returns with something to prove—not just that he belongs, but that he’s ready to win. In this conversation, we dive deep into the mindset and lifestyle of a modern pro trail runner. Rod pulls back the curtain on the level of commitment and precision it takes to not just go pro, but stay pro. We explore the pressures of high-stakes racing, the tactical demands of the Western States course, and how he's evolved as an athlete over the past 12 months. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Note - we had audio issues during parts of this episode. Working to resolve those ahead of our remaining shows this week. Thanks for your patience! Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, Jeff Colt and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at this year’s Cocodona 250. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Sally McRae joins the Singletrack Podcast live from our Olympic Valley, CA studio in the days leading up to the 2025 Western States 100 for a powerful and wide-ranging conversation. In this episode, we explore what it really takes to go pro in trail and ultrarunning—beyond the podiums, Strava segments, and sponsorship deals. Sally shares the lesser-told story of building a sustainable career in the sport, from early sacrifices to developing her voice as both an athlete and a creator. As one of the few pro runners who has built a loyal community through content, coaching, and entrepreneurship, Sally offers a blueprint for what the modern trail athlete can become. We also discuss her role at this year’s TrailCon, where she’s set to speak about the evolving intersection between athletic identity and personal branding. Sally is a thoughtful voice on how athletes can—and must—take control of their stories in the social media era, and why the future of trail running belongs as much to storytellers as it does to speedsters. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Dylan Bowman returns to the Singletrack Podcast for a wide-ranging, in-person conversation from our Olympic Valley, CA studio just days before the 2025 Western States 100. As the founder of Freetrail and a key figure behind TrailCon, Dylan has spent the last few years shaping the conversation around what trail and ultrarunning can—and should—become. In this episode, we dive deep into the evolution of the sport, how media and storytelling are influencing the culture, and what role platforms like Freetrail play in that transformation. We also discuss Dylan’s role as a lead broadcaster for the Western States 100 live stream, what goes into bringing the race to a global audience, and how coverage has evolved since his own racing days. With one foot in the athlete camp and the other in media and community-building, Dylan brings a nuanced perspective on where the sport is heading. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Jeff Colt and Mike McMonagle join Finn Melanson on the Singletrack Podcast for another edition of the Long Run Archives. In this episode, the trio reflects on the latest lineup changes at the Western States 100, the current status of Unbreakable 2, the influence of BPN's Backyard Ultra, and the impact of the Wilderness Act. Timestamps: (0:00) - Western States 100 Lineup News(32:57) - High Mileage Training Discussion(46:14) - Unbreakable 2 Discussion(70:04) - BPN Backyard Ultra(86:31) - Revisiting Wilderness Act Discussion Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Mike on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Joey Berriatua joins Finn Melanson on the Singletrack Podcast to reflect on his time with Tinman Elite, share his journey through the professional running scene, and explore why trail running might be his future path. Related Episodes: #26 (Sam Parsons | How To Build A Trail Running Team) #289 (Sam Parsons | The Trials and Tribulations of Pro RunningTimestamps: 01:00 Tinman Elite Reflections24:02 Financial Realities of Professional Running46:35 The Importance of Training Environment56:26 Building Community in Professional Running01:08:49 The Role of Media in Running01:14:32 Trail Running Interests, Balancing Steeplechase Goals Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Joey on Instagram, Strava, SubstackFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Brett Hornig and Mike McMonagle join Finn Melanson on the Singletrack Podcast for another edition of the Long Run Archives. In this episode, the trio reflects on a retroactive controversy surrounding a runner's time penalty (instead of DQ) at this year's Black Canyon 100K, the majesty of UTMB Snowdonia, the sustainability of pro ultrarunning, and whether there will be a "next venue" for the Mike-Finn-Brett ultra rivalry. Timestamps: 01:14 Black Canyon 100K Controversy44:16 Is UTMB Snowdonia cool?01:11:54 Burnout in Professional Running02:01:44 Rivalries and Future Challenges in Ultra Running Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Mike on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Brett Hornig and Jeff Colt join Finn Melanson on the Singletrack Podcast for another edition of the Long Run Archives. In this episode, the trio reflects on the evolving media landscape in ultrarunning, using the wildly popular Cocodona 250 as a case study to examine its impact on race organizers, athletes, and fans. They also share personal takeaways and recap the key storylines from this year’s event. Finally, the conversation explores the (hypothetical) emergence of teams built specifically to win marquee races, speculates on the future of ultrarunning events, and wraps up with a discussion of interesting naming trends within the sport. Timestamps: 01:21 Cocodona 250: A Fan's Perspective05:27 The Impact of Media on Ultra Running30:21 Future of Cocodona and Elite Participation38:56 Influence of Cam Hanes41:56 Pacing Dynamics in Ultra Running57:41 Crew Dynamics and Fairness in Racing01:08:35 Project Cocodona and The Concept of Brand-Funded Teams01:31:15 The Future of Ultra Running Events, Innovative Relay Concepts in Ultra Running01:35:49 Exploring Name Trends in Ultra Running01:46:44 Marketing Strategies for Trail Running Regions Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Tom Hooper joins the show to publicly announce and analyze the men's and women's long trail teams that will represent the USA at the World Trail Championships in Canfranc, Spain, this September. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Background02:09 Selection Race Controversies, The Future of Selection Races08:05 Team Composition: Women's Team Overview12:16 Team Composition: Men's Team Overview16:39 Building a Strong Team19:47 Advice for Future Athletes, Future Race Selection Process Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Team USA Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at this year’s Cocodona 250. Timestamps: (0:00) - Cocodona 250 hype, general conversation(27:58) - Course analysis(45:41) - Women's field preview(72:56) - Men's field preview Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

This is a crossover podcast from the Conversational Pace YouTube channel (hosted by my good friend, Brett Hornig) in which we talk about my gear, nutrition, and overall strategy for the 2025 Cocodona 250. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro2:21 Gear from 2024 you won’t be using in 20256:58 Starting pack of choice13:04 Starting shoe of choice18:09 Gaiters or no gaiters?19:34 Need to be fit enough to play the game22:00 What makes the first day interesting24:13 Day two25:36 Lighting choices27:33 Day two shoes33:24 Poles35:08 Significant mid-race gear pivots from last year40:28 Final miles of the course47:52 The 2025 Cocodona crew Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Brett Hornig and Leah Yingling return to the Singletrack Podcast to preview the final golden ticket chase for the 2025 Western States 100 at this weekend’s Canyons 100K in Auburn, CA. Six golden tickets are up for grabs, with standout athletes like Marianne Hogan, Anthony Costales, Hannes Namberger, Katie Asmuth, and Erin Clark adding serious depth to the competition. They discuss recent administrative updates surrounding the event—including its new status as a "super" golden ticket race, the lack of a live stream, and its recently revoked designation as the Americas Major in the UTMB World Series.  They also break down how the course and weather could impact the outcome before diving into the women’s and men’s fields and sharing their podium picks and golden ticket predictions. *Note - we recorded this episode 9 days before the race, so we apologize in advance for not being able to factor last-minute entrants between then and now into our analysis and predictions. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Brett Hornig and Jeff Colt return to the Singletrack Podcast for another edition of the Long Run Archives. Timestamps: 00:00 Gorge Waterfalls Race Recap25:11 Katie Schide and Germain Grangier Move To On39:20 Dez Linden's Transition to Ultra Running46:11 LeBron James and the Five-Minute Mile Debate54:50 Unbreakable 2: The Anticipation of a Sequel01:12:20 The Evolution of Ultra Running and Regional Competitions01:27:28 The Rise of 200-Mile Races and Their Competitiveness Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Drew Darby and Rob Fisher join the show to unpack the making of The Finisher, our new documentary chronicling Jasmin Paris’ historic completion of the 2024 Barkley Marathons. We reflect on the creative process, the unique storytelling challenges of the Barkley, and what we learned along the way. Timestamps: (0:00) – Background, intros(2:53) – Why Barkley is a media nightmare (and dream)(7:03) – Do we have a film? Short form vs long form(16:29) – Timelines, pressure, and hindsight(30:27) – Barkley surprises from behind the camera(36:26) – Crafting the behind-the-scenes narrative(42:02) – Untold themes we could’ve explored(47:05) – Indie filmmaking: the pros and cons(61:36) – Reflections on key characters(71:46) – Final takeaways + what’s nextPartners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Drew on Instagram, LinkedIn, WebsiteFollow Rob on LinkedIn, WebsiteFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

John Kelly returns to the Singletrack Podcast, this time to reflect on the 2025 Barkley Marathons and the insights he has gained from the notorious event over the past decade. He then dives into announcing and discussing his plans to attempt the fastest known time on the Appalachian Trail later this year. Timestamps: (0:00) - the difficulty of the 2025 Barkley Marathons course(1:36) - the importance of a "pipeline" of Barkley finishers(10:13) - the intentions of Lazarus Lake and Carl Laniak(14:58) - Barkley is not an orienteering event(23:00) - Brett Maune course record reflection(25:02) - whether Barkley will still be relevant after the Laz era(26:10) - Appalachian Trail FKT announcement(33:30) - the difficulty of beating the current fastest known time(37:21) - Appalachian Trail influences(43:14) - opportunities for improvement in the record approach(46:28) - building out support team(50:53) - how much it takes to prepare(01:04:15) - mental performance strategy(01:06:22) - final thoughts Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow John on Instagram, Strava, WebsiteFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

We've got another classic edition of the Long Run Archives on deck, but it's been a minute. We've been fully immersed in all things Barkley Marathons, working hard to bring a few key projects to the finish line. Two big shoutouts here: First, The Finisher, a long-form documentary about Jasmin Paris’ three-year journey to become the first female finisher at the Barkley. Huge credit and gratitude to Jules Campanelli, Drew Darby, and Rob Fisher, who worked tirelessly to bring this piece to life. We wrapped it up in great form last week. Second, we turned around a 2025 Barkley recap vlog to get a window in this year’s event as quickly as possible. That’s now live on the Singletrack YouTube channel, thanks to the excellent work of my friend and colleague, Roo Smith. Anyways, in this edition of the Long Run Archives, Brett and I chat all things Big Alta, Chianti, Barkley, and Crown King before closing with the best stuff we found on the internet this week. Enjoy! Timestamps: (1:33) - Big Alta(25:14) - Chianti(41:41) - Barkley Marathons(64:06) - Courtney Dauwalter + Crown King(76:42) - Best Stuff We Found On The Internet Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: HypershellFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, Coaching, PatreonFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

In this episode, I'm joined by ultrarunning filmmaker Dylan Harris for a special conversation. Dylan is the director of an upcoming film called "The Chase", which tells the story of the epic six-way battle for victory at the 2024 Cocodona 250, featuring Jeff Browning, Harry Subertas, Michael Versteeg, Joe McConaughy, Arlen Glick, and Michael McKnight. We've had almost all of these guys on the pod before — some of my favorite characters in the sport — and it was incredible to see how this film captured the unique blend of their personalities and racing styles at a premier multi-day event like Cocodona. In this conversation, Dylan and I start and finish by discussing the potential for more content like this in the ultrarunning space, which was awesome. But even more so, we spend the bulk of our time diving deep into each of the featured athletes, adding another compelling layer of insight to the film’s storytelling. Timestamps: (2:05) - Unbreakable inspirations, making more films with good storytelling prioritized(19:26) - Arlen Glick, Michael Versteeg, Joe McConaughy, Michael McKnight, Jeff Browning reflections(85:17) - final thoughts Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: "The Chase" Film TourDylan HarrisInaugural Year, The Long Way HomeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Finn Melanson and Brett Hornig convene for another edition of the Long Run Archives. They talk about business ideas for trail running, the rise of breathing sensors in training and racing contexts, Grand Slam Track, the continued golden ticket chase at Tarawera, the final year of Pine to Palm, and the Barkley Marathons. Timestamps: (0:00) - business ideas for trail running(17:43) - breathing sensors(35:28) - Grand Slam Track(44:45) - Nnormal(57:07) - Tarawera(68:49) - Pine to Palm(87:09) - Barkley Marathons(91:02) - records that won't be broken anytime soon Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)  Additional Links: UCI ArticleTymeWearBeth McKenzieAndrew Thompson - Concepts for SuccessAndrew Thompson - Barkley Race Report Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, Coaching, PatreonFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Caleb Olson returns to the show to discuss his dominant win at the Transgrancanaria Classic this past weekend. We dive into his conscious transition in racing style from hunter to race leader, the pack dynamics with Jon Albon and Josh Wade, the unique challenges of the TGC course, whether he feels different after such a significant career victory, and what might be next for him in 2025. Timestamps: (2:35) - small talk, in-person recording debacle(5:27) - impact of Tom Evans not racing, being overlooked(8:45) - the psychology of dictating the race, how he made that shift(13:53) - working with Jack Kuenzle, training approach, being Strava "dim"(22:39) - staying motivated to lead the race, pack dynamic with Jon and Josh(38:52) - race mantras, the interest and courage to evolve as a pro(56:05) - unique challenges of the Transgrancanaria course(63:50) - final reflections, what's next Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)  Additional Links: Caleb's TGC FootageFollow Caleb on Instagram, Strava, SubstackFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Brett Hornig and Jeff Colt return to the show to recap highlights and takeaways from the Black Canyon 100K and 50K races in Arizona this past weekend. We talk about the rise of the 50K, "race shapers", evidence for high-carb failures, gear takeaways, moving the women's start before the men's race, and top performances from the likes of Seth Ruhling, Riley Brady, Tara Dower, and Will Murray. Timestamps: (0:00) - 50K Recap(12:50) - Race Shapers(26:25) - High Carb Failures?(39:08) - Gear Stuff(48:20) - Riley Brady(66:23) - Joe McConaughy(74:42) - Seth Ruhling(80:27) - Tara Dower(90:34) - Livestream(96:02) - Moving The Women's Start? Partners: Norda - one giant leap for trail-kind (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACK30 at checkout on their website (https://www.gorewear.com) to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)  Additional Links: Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Tara Dower returns to the show to talk about life after setting the fastest known time on the Appalachian Trail, re-signing with Altra, building a high-performance team to support her ultrarunning goals, the Black Canyon 100K experience, and her outlook on this year’s Western States 100. Timestamps 01:12 Setting Ambitious Goals04:05 The Grind of The Black Canyon 100K07:12 Bouncing Back from the AT10:25 Building a High-Performance Team13:46 Mindset Techniques for Success15:46 Nutrition and Race Day Preparation17:48 Navigating Media Attention24:12 The Role of an Agent26:01 Reflections on the Appalachian Trail40:35 Choosing Durango: A Runner's Paradise43:16 Mindset on the Start Line53:37 Reflections on Performance and Improvement01:02:19  The Golden Ticket Experience01:05:41 Compartmentalizing Pressure and Expectations01:08:50 Breaking Barriers in Ultra Running01:12:25 Future Goals: Long Trails and New Adventures Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Tara on Instagram, YouTube, Website, Girls On The RunFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at this year’s Black Canyon 100K. Timestamps: (0:00) - Catching Up, Partnership News(5:27) - Listener Questions For Black Canyon(36:53) - Women's Field Analysis(1:07:33) - Men's Field Analysis(1:41:37) - Final Thoughts Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Brett Hornig and David Roche return to the Singletrack Podcast for another edition of the Long Run Archives. Timestamps: (2:35) - shoe contracts, trial by miles vlog, future content ideas(27:51) - cycling to trail crossover talk, pending competitive edge of full-time athletes(01:13:24) - rivalry in trail running, the role of authenticity in competition(01:58:49) - open questions on doping, fairness in trail running, anxieties of clean athletes Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/) Additional Links: Follow David on Patreon, SWAP, Strava, InstagramFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Jamil Coury joins the show to talk about the reasons behind his renewed passion for running, some inner workings of the Cocodona 250, various eras of Aravaipa Running, and his relatively recent acquisition of Ultrarunning Magazine. Timestamps: (0:50) - Chipotle Challenge(13:35) - Cocodona 250(37:51) - Reflecting On Eras Of Aravaipa Running(92:57) - Ultrarunning Magazine Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)  Additional Links: Follow Jamil on Instagram, Strava, YouTube, WebsiteFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Brett Hornig returns to the Singletrack Podcast for another edition of the Long Run Archives. In this episode, we discuss Finn's recent appearance on the Boulder Boys Show, the marketing beef between Nike and Satisfy, movement on the free agent market, and questions about the reach of European trail running media. Timestamps: (0:00) - Catching Up, Boulder Boys Appearance, Coffee Club Inspiration, In-Person Podcasts(29:12) - Nike / Satisfy Beef(40:27) - European Trail Media Issues(53:44) - Free Agency News(67:08) - What’s In / What’s Out (2025)(80:27) - Best Things You Found On The Internet This Week Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)  Additional Links: David Roche Vlog, Reax RunFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Get the inside scoop on what’s coming to the Singletrack Podcast in 2025! Host Finn Melanson shares exciting updates on podcast plans, race coverage, event projects, and more. Got ideas or requests for future behind-the-scenes episodes? We’d love to hear from you—DM us on IG or email Finn directly at [email protected]. Don’t miss this peek behind the curtain! Timestamps: (0:00) - Introductions(15:30) - 2024 Reflections, Larger Trends(17:53) - Podcast Expectations(24:30) - Race Coverage Expectations(29:17) - Twisted Fork Expectations(31:55) - Race Project Expectations(36:00) - Miscellaneous, Skill-Building(40:05) - 2025 Partners (Naak, Gorewear, Raide)(43:50) - Conclusions Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)  Links: Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Jack Kuenzle and Will Peterson join the show to reflect on an exciting year in the world of 'fastest known times' on the trail running scene. Fair warning: this episode contains some profanity, so listener discretion is advised! Timestamps: (2:00) - Top FKT-related storylines of 2024(30:15) - Best New FKT Developments / Themes of 2024 (43:05) - Advances In Gear, Nutrition, Etc for FKTs(53:33) - Male FKT Of The Year(67:31) - Female FKT Of The Year(93:35) - Routes That Should Get More Attention In 2025 And Beyond(100:58) - 2025 FKT Predictions(108:09) - Personal Goals For 2025 Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.us/) to get 15% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLET...) to get 20% off your next order. Links: Follow Will on Instagram, From The BackcountryFollow Jack on Instagram, Strava, CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Brett Hornig and Leah Yingling join the show to reflect on an exciting year in ultrarunning. We dive into standout storylines, major sports shifts, and rookie athletes' breakout performances. We highlight runners who staged remarkable comebacks, discuss key candidates in TROY and UROY voting, and highlight unsung performances and athletes of the year. Additionally, we share personal highlights and make bold predictions for 2025 and beyond. Timestamps: (0:00) - Introductions(4:19) - Unsung or Darkhorse Performance of the Year(14:32) - Comeback Runner of the Year(30:08) - Rookie of the Year(37:02) - Best Team Performance(44:52) - Best Free Agent Signing(47:54) - Top Storylines of 2024(59:57) - Favorite Moments of 2024(67:39) - Biggest Themes / Best New Developments of 2024(73:16) - Most Thrilling Race / Race Moment of 2024(77:25) - Favorite Content of 2024(83:24) - 2024 Predictions(92:05) - UROY Considerations(94:54) - Personal Wins / 2025 Goals Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.us/) to get 15% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLET...) to get 20% off your next order. Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

This is a two-part episode from conversations recorded at the Running Event in Austin, TX this past November. First, I'm joined by Tim Tollefson who provides a race-directing behind-the-scenes look at the Mammoth Trail Fest. Then I'm joined by Lauren Osbourne who shares lessons learned from building a modern speciality running retail store - Exchange Running Collective - in Nashville, TN. Timestamps: (1:48) - whether trail running events should have points of view(4:51) - the role of brand partners at trail running events(5:56) - race director off-season activities, business challenges(13:49) - event permitting for trail races(20:49) - inspirations for Mammoth Trail Fest(27:58) - more brand partnerships discussion(36:13) - golden trail series relationship(41:04) - Tim Tollefson parting thoughts(43:26) - how to enter the running retail space(45:47) - lessons learned working for Nike(52:15) - intentionally creating in-store community environment(57:00) - Nashville running scene(61:05) - running memberships, unique inventory(64:20) - advice for starting a running store, the zero to onePartners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.us/) to get 15% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLET...) to get 20% off your next order. Additional Links: Mammoth Trail FestExchange Running Collective Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter,Support the show

In this episode, we’re joined by returning guests Abby Levene of Outside Magazine and Kelly Newlon of RAD Boulder. Together, we dive into the big news of Tara Dower’s groundbreaking sponsorship deal with Altra, which positions her as one of the higher-paid athletes in the ultra-trail running world. Timestamps: 00:30 Introduction to Tara Dower's Contract with Altra06:22 Gender Pay Inequality in Sports09:26 The Role of Non-Disclosure Agreements in Athlete Contracts13:42 Market Dynamics and Athlete Compensation16:37 The Impact of Tara's Contract on the Trail Running Community19:28 The Future of Sponsorships in Trail Running22:21 Tara Dower's Unique Position in the Sport25:36 Measuring Success for Brands and Athletes28:30 The Evolution of Altra's Brand Strategy35:28 The Evolution of Athlete Representation39:01 The Role of Agents in Ultra Trail Running50:48 The Future of Sports Reporting54:39 The Concept of a Signing Day in Trail Running56:48 Safeguarding Athlete Obligations01:01:55 Final Thoughts on Tara's Impact Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.us/) to get 15% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLET...) to get 20% off your next order. Additional Links: Abby Levene - Outside Mag ArticleKelly Newlon - RadBoulderFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Chris Chavez returns to the Singletrack Podcast to discuss the latest developments at Citius Mag, the influence of Netflix's Sprint series on Track and Field, shifts in the sports media landscape, his key content and event strategies for 2025, and his perspective on Michael Johnson's "Grand Slam Track" league. Timestamps: 2:00 The Evolution of Citius Mag and Track and Field Media9:49 Retaining Talent in a Competitive Media Environment20:50 The Impact of Media on Track and Field26:59 The Future of Track and Field Media32:19 "Sprint" And The Evolution of Sports Documentaries39:51 Challenges in Media Access In Track and Field45:04 Grand Slam Track50:04 The Role of Influential Figures (Michael Johnson) in Sports55:27 Business Strategies for Sports Media Success Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.us/) to get 15% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLET...) to get 20% off your next order. Additional Links: Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Finn Melanson and Brett Hornig share their initial reactions to the Hardrock 100 and Western States 100 lotteries, discussing their impact on the competitive fields in both races. Didn't get into the Western States 100 or Hardrock 100? Come race Twisted Fork on June 14th, 2025 in Park City, UT.  Check it out here. Timestamps: 00:00 Instant Reactions to the Race Lotteries03:03 Exploring Content Opportunities in Trail Running06:03 Statistics and Insights from the Lotteries09:03 Katie Schide racing Hardrock next year20:56 Zach Miller racing Hardrock next year24:48 The Competitive Landscape of the Hardrock 10028:49 Western States 100 Lottery Overview32:57 Conversational Pace Corner - Shoe Predictions34:05 Final Thoughts and Future Events (Twisted Fork) Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.us/) to get 15% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLET...) to get 20% off your next order. Additional Links: Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

We’ve officially stepped into the role of Race Directors! In this episode of the Singletrack Podcast, I sit down with my wife and business partner, Jules Campanelli, to share an inside look at our trail running festival, Twisted Fork. Join us in Park City, UT, on June 14, 2025, for an unforgettable day with the Singletrack trail running community. Ready to be part of the excitement? Visit massifrunning.com to secure your spot in the 68K, 30K, or 15K—we can’t wait to see you on the trails! Timestamps: (0:38) - introductions, announcement, excitement for race festival(6:18) - history of Twisted Fork(10:21) - overviews of 68K, 30K, and 15K courses(13:07) - trail festival differentiators(23:49) - competitive status of the 68K, 30K, 15K fields(26:33) - race festival partners(32:35) - how to register, how to get involved, final thoughts Race Partners: Gorewear - use code TwistedFork30 at checkout on their website (https://www.gorewear.com/us/en-us/) for 30% off your next order.Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Keen - unapologetically comfortable and consciously created to protect our planet (https://keenfootwear.com)Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://www.kodiakcakes.com/) to get 15% off your next order.Trails and Tarmac - get $50/mo off coaching if you sign up before March 15th (https://trailsandtarmac.com/coaching) Additional Links: Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, Patreon, RacesSupport the show

Brett Hornig returns to the Singletrack Podcast for a crossover episode from his YouTube show (Conversational Pace) recapping our takeaways from the 2024 Running Event in Austin, TX earlier this week.    Categories Covered: Standout brand (overall)Standout shoe Standout tech Standout conversation Standout newcomer brand Biggest brand surprise Biggest brand turnaround Bet on this (brand, trend, etc)    Sponsors: Keen - unapologetically comfortable and consciously created to protect our planet (https://keenfootwear.com)Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.   Additional Links: Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Brett Hornig returns to the Singletrack Podcast for another edition of the Long Run Archives. In this episode, we discuss the upcoming Running Event in Austin, Courtney Dauwalter’s entry into the 2025 Cocodona 250, Gorge Waterfalls 100K being selected as the US Long Trail World’s team qualifier, and insights into the trail running contract season, among other topics.  Timestamps: (5:50) - Gorge Waterfalls 100K hosting worlds qualifier(30:35) - Courtney Dauwalter registering for the Cocodona 250(44:20) - UROY and Western States 100 Discussion(66:31) - Contract season insights and speculations(84:24) - Long trail fastest known times (90:20) - Underrated races on the American scene(97:48) - Best stuff we found on the internet this week  Sponsors: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.us/) to get 15% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.  Additional Links: Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonEscarpment Trail Run, Three Mile Island DocuseriesSupport the show

Welcome to part 2 of our two-part conversation! If you haven’t listened to the first half yet, be sure to check it out—it aired last week and features nutrition coach Vic Johnson, known as the "Mountain Sports Dietician" on social media. You might recognize Vic’s name; he has collaborated with several prominent athletes in our sport, including Rod Farvard, to address the critical fueling strategies for ultrarunning. In part 1, Vic offered valuable insights into the evolving role of nutrition in endurance sports, discussing the importance of high-carb fueling, gut training, and common nutritional challenges faced by endurance athletes. In this follow-up conversation, we delve into post-run recovery, the benefits of antioxidants, and the strategic use of caffeine and bicarbonate during races. We’ll also explore how to interpret results from sweat composition and sweat rate tests, among other topics. Sponsors: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.us/) to get 15% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.  Additional Links: Follow Vic on Instagram, WebsiteFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Welcome to part 1 of our two-part conversation featuring nutrition coach Vic Johnson, known as the "Mountain Sports Dietician" on social media. You might recognize Vic’s name; he has collaborated with several prominent athletes in our sport, including Rod Farvard, to address the critical fueling strategies for ultrarunning. In part 1, Vic offers valuable insights into the evolving role of nutrition in endurance sports, discussing the importance of high-carb fueling, gut training, and common nutritional challenges faced by endurance athletes. In our follow-up conversation, which will air next week, we delve into post-run recovery, the benefits of antioxidants, and the strategic use of caffeine and bicarbonate during races. We’ll also explore how to interpret results from sweat composition and sweat rate tests, among other topics. Sponsors: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.us/) to get 15% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.  Additional Links: Follow Vic on Instagram, WebsiteFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Though he probably needs no introduction, in addition to being a stellar coach and podcaster, David Roche has been lighting it up on the 100 mile ultra scene these past few months with impressive wins at Leadville and Javelina. Honestly, these breakthroughs were just an excuse to reach out. Over two hours, we dive into a broad range of topics in the trail running world. There was no set agenda—just a fun, free-flowing chat that I think really shines through here. Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order. Links: Follow David on Patreon, SWAP, Strava, InstagramFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Leah Yingling and Jeff Colt join Finn Melanson on this episode of the Singletrack Podcast to recap the 2024 Javelina Jundred. They discuss the race livestream, share their experiences pacing frontrunners Riley Brady and Jeff Mogavero, and reflect on the event's significance within the broader ultra community. They also delve into the excitement of the golden ticket chase and explore the various internal and external factors that fueled top performances in the race. Timestamps: 00:00 Weekend Recap and Personal Updates06:15 Pacing Dynamics and Strategies11:35 Last Lap Experiences18:09 Golden Ticket Implications and Future Prospects41:14 Crew Dynamics and Race Preparation47:07 The Role of Community in Athletic Success52:57 The Evolution of Trail Running Talent58:25 Golden Ticket Experiences01:04:20 Future Contenders for Western States01:10:09 Reflections on the Ultra Running Community Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order. Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Jeff on Instagram, StravaFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Max Jolliffe joins the show to talk about his thrilling come-from-behind win at last week's Moab 240, his journey to sobriety, and the dedication and intensity that has contributed to his rapid ascension in the ultrarunning world. Timestamps: 06:56 Preparing for Moab 24010:05 Overcoming Adversity in TDS14:02 The Influence of Jesse Haynes16:53 The Beauty of the Moab Course19:57 The Hail Mary Moment at Mile 20033:37 The Role of Pacers in Ultra Running36:20 The Competitive Dynamics of the Race38:04 Navigating Extreme Conditions42:12 Crossing the Finish Line: Emotions and Reflections44:44 Future Aspirations in Ultra Running47:19 Personal Growth and Transformation56:24 Harnessing Addictive Personalities for Success01:03:18 Journey to Sobriety 01:08:15 The Shift from Skating to Running01:13:32 Cultural Crossovers: Surfing, Skating, and Running01:18:48 Building a Career in Apparel Design Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.Links: Follow Max on Instagram, YouTube, StravaFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at this year’s Javelina Jundred. Timestamps: (0:00) - course strategy, weather conditions, historical performance data, competitive race context(15:40) - women's field preview, storylines, analysis, predictions(49:09) - men's field preview, storylines, analysis, predictionsPartners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Jason Schlarb is a professional athlete sponsored by Norda and Ultimate Direction, based in Durango, CO. If American ultrarunning had All-Decade teams, Jason would undoubtedly be a starter for the 2010s, boasting impressive victories at races like Hardrock and Run Rabbit Run, along with a top-five finish at UTMB, among numerous other accolades. Even in his 40s, Jason continues to deliver outstanding performances. Earlier this year, he was the top American finisher at both TDS and Hardrock, placing 9th and 3rd, respectively. In this conversation, we cover a wide range of topics in a wonderfully organic way. If you enjoyed our episodes with Michael Versteeg or Anton Krupicka earlier this year, you'll find this discussion similarly laid-back yet rich in insights. Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.  Related Episodes: #340 - The Return of Anton Krupicka#324 - Scott Jurek | Western States 100 Reflections, Ultrarunning History, Next Steps#313 - Michael Versteeg | Reflections On The Soul Of Ultrarunning Additional Links: Follow Jason on Instagram, Strava, CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Last month, Tara Dower achieved a monumental fastest-known time on the Appalachian Trail. In a follow-up interview, she emphasized the importance of teamwork in this accomplishment. To delve deeper into that aspect, we spoke with her Crew Chief, Rascal. In our conversation, we explore the learning curve of supporting multi-week efforts, the physical and emotional challenges involved, and what a typical crew stop and pacing section entailed. We also discuss various logistical considerations and Rascal's advice for future crew teams taking on this ambitious project, along with other insightful topics! Timestamps: (1:47) - Rascal's thru-hiking and crewing background(6:16) - the learning curve to crewing this FKT attempt(13:27) - mental aspects of crewing(19:57) - criticism of the style(23:37) - what crew stop execution looked like (31:42) - how taxing this was on the crew(41:45) - miscellaneous logistical considerations(50:14) - future storytelling about this achievement(53:43) - advice to future crew teams, next steps for Rascal Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.  Related Episodes: #339 - How Tara Dower Shattered The Appalachian Trail Record#335 - Will Peterson | Inside The Fastest Known Time On Vermont’s Long Trail#329 - Exploring Appalachian Trail History and Endurance Records with Warren Doyle#284 - Jennifer Pharr Davis | Appalachian Trail Reflections, State of FKTs, Pursuits of Endurance Additional Links: Follow Rascal on InstagramFollow Tara on Instagram, YouTube, Website, Girls On The RunFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Brett Hornig joins the Singletrack Podcast for another edition of the Long Run Archives. We talk about some personal life updates before offering up our takes on Tara Dower's FKT on the Appalachian Trail, the Camille Herron Wikipedia Controversy, Mammoth Trail Fest, and "Way-Too-Early" Western States 100 Picks.      Timestamps: (8:55) - Tara Dower Appalachian Trail Record(50:25) - Camille Herron Wikipedia Controversy(82:19) - Mammoth Trail Fest(95:40) - Way Too Early Western States 100 Picks(100:26) - Coolest Stuff We Found On The Internet This Week  Sponsors: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.us/) to get 15% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.  Additional Links: Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Anton Krupicka is back on the podcast! Few athletes in ultrarunning generate as much excitement as Anton, and he’s returned with a bang—recently setting a fastest known time on the iconic LA Freeway route and securing second place finish at the Grindstone 100 this past weekend. Beyond his impressive athletic achievements, which notably helped shape the ultrarunning culture in the late 2000s and early 2010s, Anton is a thoughtful and generous conversationalist. He shares plenty of insights in this episode. While the FKT and race results provide a backdrop, we also dive deeper into nostalgic ultrarunning memories (his friendships with Scott Jurek, Geoff Roes, and Kyle Skaggs), engaging discussions on philosophy (athlete personalities and bike culture), current events (Leadville 100), and his aspirations (UTMB and Hardrock goals).  Timestamps: (1:30) - LA Freeway (19:04) - Grindstone Performance, UTMB + Hardrock Goals(39:00) - Leadville 100, Matt Carpenter(57:36) - The Kids Are Alright(67:58) - New Balance, La Sportiva Stories(76:14) - Scott Jurek Stories(80:37) - Bike Culture(91:58) - Kyle Skaggs Stories Related Episodes: #157 - Anton Krupicka | 2022 Ultra Trail Cape Town Pre-Race Interview#51 - Anton Krupicka | Trail Running Culture, Pro Athlete Lifestyle, Influence, Self-Reflection Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order. Additional Links: Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonFollow Anton on Instagram, Strava, SubstackSupport the show

This past Saturday night at 11:53 PM, Tara Dower set the fastest known time on the Appalachian Trail in 40 days 18 hours 5 minutes, besting Karel Sabbe's 2018 mark by 13 hours and 32 minutes. Starting August 12th at 5:47 AM, Dower averaged 54+ miles per day over 2,197.4 miles of rugged and relentless terrain from Maine to Georgia to set the mark. In masterfully riding a fine line of passion, grit, faith, and resourcefulness, Tara and her crew have set a new standard on this trail. I said this on an Instagram post shortly after the news broke, but I’ll say it here as well - it’s easy to get caught up in the moment, especially in a year that has seen the likes of the first female Barkley finisher, a UTMB course record, and a Hardrock course record - but is this the female performance of the year? Or better yet, is this the overall performance of the year regardless of gender? This is an amazing time to be in the sport. With all that said, we were fortunate to have Tara on the podcast shortly after her feat. In this conversation, we cover topics all about the Appalachian Trail record around her background, preparation, strategy, execution, mindset, and processing of this monumental achievement. If you want more long-distance hiking trail or Appalachian Trail trail-specific content, be sure to check out our interviews with Will Peterson, Warren Doyle, and Jennifer Pharr Davis from the past year. Hope you enjoy this one! Timestamps: 00:00 - How Tara Is Feeling Post-Appalachian Trail FKT, Expressions of Gratitude05:06 - Worry About Falling Too Far Behind Karel Sabbe's Mark Early On14:00 - Tara's Thru-Hiking And Ultrarunning Background21:21 - Preparation For The Appalachian Trail Record33:00 - Appalachian Trail FKT Strategy45:23 - Daily Schedule57:59 - Highlights From Various Sections Of The Appalachian Trail 68:15 - Making A Statement For Female Athletes, Mindset, Launching Points Partners:Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.  Related Episodes: #335 - Will Peterson | Inside The Fastest Known Time On Vermont’s Long Trail#329 - Exploring Appalachian Trail History and Endurance Records with Warren Doyle#284 - Jennifer Pharr Davis | Appalachian Trail Reflections, State of FKTs, Pursuits of Endurance Additional Links: Follow Tara on Instagram, YouTube, Website, Girls On The RunFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

After reading her book, "The Longest Race: Inside the Secret World of Abuse, Doping, and Deception on Nike's Elite Running Team", I was eager to connect with Kara Goucher for an in-depth conversation. For those less familiar with the road running scene, Kara was one of the top American distance runners of the 2000s and 2010s, achieving podium finishes at prestigious events like the Boston and New York City Marathons, as well as the 2012 Olympic Marathon Trials. She also claimed victory at the US Half Marathon Championships the same year, among numerous other accolades. In 2004, she joined the Nike Oregon Project, led by distance running legend Alberto Salazar. Behind the scenes, however, Salazar was pushing the boundaries of anti-doping regulations while fostering a toxic culture of misogyny and athlete abuse. Despite the risk of losing everything and facing immense pressure, Kara found the courage to speak out and successfully advocate for meaningful change. In our discussion, we explore various themes from The Longest Race, and we also discuss current events, including her podcast with Des Linden - "Nobody Asked Us", and the challenges with today’s anti-doping investigative models. Before we dive in, please note that this episode is a crossover from my guest-hosting stint on the Run To The Top podcast earlier this spring. Be sure to check out Run To The Top for their excellent coaching resources and content here: https://runnersconnect.net/running-podcast/ Timestamps: 02:00 Introduction and Podcasting, Creative Freedom and Speaking Freely 10:05 Lack of Change at Nike, Perception of Nike and Possibility for Change 13:39 Support for Athletes and Career Transitions, Effects of Pregnancy Clause 19:36 Impact on Career and Olympic Trials, Taking Responsibility and Speaking Up 23:32 The Appeal of the Oregon Project, The Motivational Climate of the Group 25:31 Staying Silent in an Abusive System, The Charisma of Alberto Salazar 34:38 Healing and Reconciliation, Moving On and Confronting the Past, Trusting in the Sport 38:40 The Challenge of Catching Dopers, Need for an Investigative Model, Future of Anti-Doping Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.  Additional Links: Check out RunnersConnectFollow Kara on Instagram, Podcast, BookFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

In this episode, I'm excited to welcome Matt Trappe to the show. If you’ve been following ultrarunning media over the past decade, Matt’s name might ring a bell. He’s been behind some fantastic content over the last decade, including Jim Walmsley’s "Lighting The Fire" series, "Droddy," and "Leadman: The Dave Mackey Story," among other influential projects. Matt has recently launched a new brand called Auteur Sportif, which we’ll link to in the show notes below. He’s also an insightful follow on LinkedIn, where he shares valuable commentary on the latest news inside the creative and business realms of endurance sports. In our conversation, we dive into a range of topics, such as the role of storytelling in brand marketing, the significance of context and human connection in athlete narratives, and how the digital age is reshaping marketing in the trail running space. We also discuss the fragmentation of cultural conversations and the need for brands to engage with their audiences in new ways. Additionally, we explore the potential split between professional and participant markets in ultrarunning, and have some fun exploring open job roles in the sport, like the PR position at UTMB and the Global Creative Director role at Salomon. Timestamps: 02:24 The Power of Filmmaking in Athlete Narratives07:45 Balancing Brand Marketing and Performance Marketing15:01 The Rise of Niche Brands in the Digital Age19:08 Navigating the Fragmented Cultural Conversation21:12 The Value of Long-Term Brand Marketing27:38 The PR Opportunity of a Lifetime at UTMB37:19 The Power of Storytelling44:52 The Evolution of Races54:14 Marketing Activations and Moments58:08 Decoupling Athletes from Races Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.  Additional Links: Follow Matt on LinkedIn, Personal Website, Auteur SportifFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon Support the show

Katie Schide returns to the show a week removed from her historic, record-setting win at the 2024 UTMB. Given that Katie will be on the media circuit fielding many interviews over the next few days and weeks, we focused on some unique angles in this conversation - getting the inside scoop on what the immediate aftermath looks like for pro runners finishing at the front of this race, the psychology of handling near constant media attention from start to finish on this course, whether it makes sense to separate start times for the men’s and women’s races at UTMB, what to do once you’ve succeeded at the pinnacle of the sport, and more. It’s always great to have Katie on the show and stay tuned because our "Eurotrack" series will be returning in early October when we get together to preview the high-profile races at Les Templiers and Grand Raid. Timestamps: 02:00 The Challenges of the UTMB Finish Line06:49 Navigating the Livestream Spotlight and Performative Expectations12:24 The Increasing Competitiveness of the Women's Field18:59 Constantly Striving for Improvement30:44 Contemplating Hardrock, Trail World Championships Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.  Additional Links: Follow Katie on Instagram, Strava, North FaceFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Will Peterson joins the show to talk about the fastest known time he set this past weekend on Vermont’s Long Trail, the oldest continuous footpath in the United States and the setting for many notable performances over the years from top athletes in the ultrarunning scene like Nikki Kimball, Joe McConaughy, Jennifer Pharr Davis, and John Kelly. We talk about all aspects of Will’s effort including mental and physical preparation, multi-day strategy, highlights from his race report, the skillset to accomplish something of this stature, whether he plans to stay in this type of arena in the future, and some fun topics generated by listeners and viewers (like whether he’d do the full Appalachian Trail). Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Initial Feelings06:40 The Long Trail and Other Routes10:38 Background and Skillset15:17 Motivation and Competition19:14 The Evolving FKT Scene24:17 Creating a Competitive Narrative and Mental Strategies27:04 Training and Preparation36:22 Planning and Adaptability in FKT Attempts55:46 The Future of FKTs: Amateurs and Professionals01:01:41 Data-Driven Goals for Optimal Performance01:09:18 Instigating Participation in the Multi-Day Scene01:11:06 Future in Multi-Day FKTs01:17:21 The Debate on Expanded FKT Leaderboards01:19:32 The Appalachian Trail and Future Challenges01:23:38 Reflections on FKT of the Year Snub01:26:06 The Unique Challenges of the 100 Mile Wilderness01:31:24 Regulating External Communication on Unsupported Efforts01:41:11 Gratitude for the Crew Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.  Additional Links: Follow Will on Instagram, Strava, From The Backcountry PodcastFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Brett Hornig and Jeff Colt join Singletrack to recap the 2024 UTMB. We talk about the impressive performances of race winners Katie Schide and Vincent Bouillard, the standout achievements of the top 10 women, DNF culture in big-stage events, and the challenges of fueling during overnight races among other topics. Timestamps: 03:53 DNF Culture 31:38 Comparing the Impressive Performances of the Women's Top 10, The Potential for Improvement on the UTMB Course, The Future of Women's Racing at UTMB, Shoutouts to Sabrina Stanley, Lucy Bartholomew, and Marianne Hogan48:22 The Background and Future of Vincent Viet, The Compelling Nature of Unknown and Unlikely Winners, Balancing a Breakthrough Result with a Previous Life01:23:14 The Presence of Prototype Shoes, The Evolution of UTMB into a Trade Show01:31:25 Fueling Challenges in Overnight Races, Questioning the High Carb Fueling Trend01:48:57 The Importance of Constructive Dialogue in the Sport, Improvements in the Coverage of the Women's Race, Positive Changes Arising from Controversies, Receptiveness to Criticism and Growth Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order. Additional Links: Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

Brett Hornig and Leah Yingling return to the Singletrack Podcast to help preview the women's and men's fields at the 2024 Ultra Trail Du Mont Blanc (UTMB). In both fields, we cover top storylines and what to watch for, we answer some listener mail about the race, provide analysis of top contenders, categorize who we see as candidates for the win, for the podium, and the top 10, and we make bold predictions across a number of other fun categories. Timestamps: (0:43) - Course Strategy(18:57) - Women's Field Preview(73:12) - Men's Field Preview  Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.Additional Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Abby Hall’s journey to the 2024 UTMB start line is, in my opinion, one of the most compelling storylines of this year’s race.  It’s been a while since she was last on the podcast—roughly about two years ago, around this same time, before the same race. This hiatus was not due to a lack of interest on my part. I closely follow her career across various social media platforms; she’s an exceptional writer and excels at documenting the life of a professional trail runner. In our conversation, we cover everything that has happened in the past 15 months and what it took for her to return to the sport’s biggest stage. I believe you’ll find the discussion highly valuable. Abby is a generous conversationalist who skillfully connects her experiences to the interests of the audience. Timestamps: 01:30 Introduction and Recapping 2022/2023 timeline04:53 The Challenges of Recovering from a Major Injury08:23 Rehabilitation and the Full-Time Job of Recovery16:14 The Emotional Impact of Injury and the Role of a Sports Psychologist23:08 The Complexities of Self-Responsibility in the Recovery Process26:21 The Importance of Building Relationships with Supportive Team Members30:12 Personal Rituals and Ceremonies in the Recovery Journey33:28 Inspiring Others Through Social Media42:50 Finding Joy in the Process of Training and Racing55:47 Setting Goals and Staying Focused on Your Passion Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.  Additional Links: Follow Abby on Instagram, StravaFollow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Tom Evans returns to the Singletrack Podcast to talk about the influence of work and travel in Kenya on his ultrarunning career, how he plans to bounce back from last year's UTMB, his new approach to social media and in-person engagements before race day, and some of the latest training and racing science he's incorporating into his 2024 schedule. Timestamps: (1:35) - influence of the military and Iten, Kenya on his ultrarunning career(11:50) - greediness, selectivity, being realistic about racing performance prospects(30:42) - perils of media engagements, social media, distractions and their impact on race day performance(48:43) - training questions around specificity, double-labeled water test, exogenous ketones, traveling with a rice cooker Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.  Additional Links: Follow Tom on Instagram, YouTube, StravaFollow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Jim Walmsley returns to the Singletrack Podcast to talk about his upcoming title defense at Ultra Trail Du Mont Blanc (UTMB), final takeaways from his win at the Western States 100 in June, observations from spectating this year's Hardrock 100, whether he would ever do a full season on the Golden Trail series circuit, and how his career in ultrarunning has progressed to date both from training and race standpoints. Timestamps: 00:00 The Increasing Competitiveness of Western States09:02 The Importance of Mental Strength in Racing15:19 Considering the Golden Trail Series18:22 Adjusting Strategies for Future Races22:50 The Challenges of the UTMB Course27:56 Keeping Training Private for Focus33:25 Approaching UTMB with Caution 35:30 Considering the World Trail Championships39:31 The Longevity of a Successful Career49:29 Finding Inspiration in Other Sports Partners: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.  Additional Links: Follow Jim on Instagram, StravaFollow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

This conversation with Warren Doyle might need a bit of context if you’re not well-versed in the long-distance thru-hiking scene in North America. Warren is a prominent figure in the Appalachian Trail community. While there's some debate about the exact beginning of the modern fastest known time (FKT) scene on the AT, Warren's impressive 1973 record of 66 days and change is widely considered a significant milestone. Warren’s contributions to the trail are extensive. Over a 45-year period, he led eight large-group “circle” expeditions with near 100% completion rates. He founded the Appalachian Long Distance Hikers Association and established the Appalachian Trail Institute, which has helped thousands of hikers achieve their thru-hiking goals. He has also played a key role in preparing notable figures like Jenn Pharr Davis and Liz Derstine for record-setting endurance attempts, and has advised many other prominent endurance athletes, including Karel Sabbe. I’m excited to have Warren on the show for several reasons. First and foremost, my deep love for the AT and my ongoing quest to understand its history. Warren has been a central figure in shaping the trail’s scene over the past 40 to 50 years. In our conversation, we’ll explore topics like the nature of endurance records on long trails, the purpose of the AT, social change, the impact of the outdoor industry on thru-hiking culture, the relationship between government and nature, and much more. Regardless of your familiarity with the scene, I think you’ll find this episode engaging. Warren is a vibrant and generous conversationalist, and I’m sure you’ll gain a lot from our discussion. Timestamps: 02:00 Introduction and Backlash on the AT10:34 The Commercialization of the Outdoor Industry17:48 The Relationship Between the Trail and the Government25:22 The Importance of Substantive Conversations on the Trail40:10 Regulations and Policing of Mount Katahdin44:39 The Amateur Aspect of Endurance Hiking47:26 The Role of Support Crews in Endurance Record Attempts01:03:36 Challenges of Reintegrating into Society after the AT01:11:54 Embracing a Wilderness State of Mind01:17:04 Supporting Dreams and Moving Forward01:24:05 The Role of a Social Change Educator01:31:55 Concerns about the Future of the Appalachian Trail  Sponsors: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.  Additional Links: Warren's Website, Outside FeatureSupport the show

Brett Hornig and Jeff Colt join the Singletrack Podcast for another edition of the Long Run Archives. We talk about the prospect of the backyard ultra format being added to the Olympic games, insights for trail runners from the Tour de France, a Western States 100 with no automatic returning top-10 runners, the value of increasing popularity in fastest known time attempts, and speculate where top runners like Zach Miller and Courtney Dauwalter might race next.      Timestamps: 00:00 Imagining the Backyard Ultra Format in the Paris Olympics08:28 Tour de France Nutrition Strategies for Trail Running27:29 Training Partners vs. Crew Service39:40 Changing the Invitation System for Western States44:40 The Impact on Race Dynamics and Strategies48:04 The Role of Team Support and Camaraderie53:51 Improving the World Trail Majors' Team Format1:15:09 Harnessing the Power of Self-Talk in Sports Performance1:31:50 The Strava Pro Badge Purge1:35:34 The Worth of Increasing the Popularity of the FKT Scene  Sponsors: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.us/) to get 15% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.  Additional Links: Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and CoachingFollow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and PatreonSupport the show

This episode was recorded live at Singletrack’s Olympic Valley studios ahead of the 2024 Western States 100. We were joined by Nick Bare and even though this was technically a pre-race interview, so much of what we talked about was only peripherally related to the event, so similar to the Scott Jurek and Sally McRae conversations from that week I wanted to save it for a stand-alone podcast a few weeks on. Specifically, we talk about creating portals online for people to find the sport of trail running, what it means to be a hybrid athlete, some of his favorite books about mental and physical strength, how to make our sport cooler or more memorable, his advice for athletes and creators from a content marketing standpoint, and what’s exciting him about a race like Western States. Sponsors: Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.    Additional Links: Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

This episode was recorded live at Singletrack’s Olympic Valley studios ahead of the 2024 Western States 100. We were joined by Sally McRae who probably needs no introduction. Sally is another person I've wanted to talk with since the inception of this podcast and even though this was technically a pre-race interview, so much of what we talked about was only peripherally related to the event, so similar to the Scott Jurek conversation I wanted to save it for a stand-alone podcast a few weeks on. Specifically, we talk about the trajectory of her career starting with her Nike trail contract signing in the mid-2010s, how to think about the business side of trail running as a creator or athlete, and some of her favorite Western States 100 stories dating back to some of those great Billy Yang films a few years ago. Sponsors: Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.    Additional Links: Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Brett Hornig and Leah Yingling join Singletrack to recap the 2024 Hardrock 100. We talk about the amazing performances from athletes like Courtney Dauwalter and Ludovic Pommeret, Leah's experience working on the livestream, Brett’s fan experience, Finn’s time creating content around the lead runners, the history and culture of this race, top storylines and insights from the weekend, and what the future of this race might look like after such another historic year of individual and cumulative performances. Sponsors: Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.     Additional Links: Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, TwitterFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

This episode was recorded live at Singletrack’s Olympic Valley studios ahead of the 2024 Western States 100. We were joined by Scott Jurek who probably needs no introduction. Scott is someone I've wanted to talk with since the inception of this podcast and even though this was technically a pre-race interview, so much of what we talked about was only peripherally related to the event, so I wanted to save it for a stand-alone podcast a few weeks on. Specifically, we talk about his history in the sport, some of the mental and emotional aspects of being an elite athlete, how someone of his stature in the sport grapples with athletic mortality, and some of his favorite stories with fellow competitors over the years. *Note the audio jumps a bit at a few points in the conversation. I think this was due to the poor internet connection at our studio during the livestream. - Finn Sponsors: Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.    Additional Links: Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Brett Hornig and Dani Moreno join Singletrack to recap the 2024 Western States 100.  We talk about the amazing performances from athletes like Jim Walmsley and Katie Schide, Brett's experience working on the livestream, Dani and Finn's experiences crewing top runners, whether there's a definitive training and racing playbook for this event, noticeable innovations in crewing, nutrition, and topical cooling, and what the future of this race might look like after such a historic year of individual and cumulative performances. Sponsors: Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.    Additional Links: Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Dani on Instagram, SubHub, WebsiteSupport the show

Katie Schide and Heather Jackson stop by the Singletrack studio in Olympic Valley, CA ahead of the 2024 Western States 100 to chat it up about the race, the sport at large, and life in general. Thanks to both of these guys! Special thanks to Brooks, the presenting sponsor of this week's race coverage. Sponsors: Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.   Additional Links: Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

These conversations with Dani Moreno (Predictions Show) and Jamil Coury and Matt Feldhake (Livestream Insights) were livestreamed on the Singletrack YouTube a few days before the 2024 Western States 100.  Special thanks to Brooks, the presenting sponsor of this week's race coverage. Sponsors: Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.   Additional Links: Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

These conversations were livestreamed on the Singletrack YouTube a few days before the 2024 Western States 100. Enjoy Leah, Hayden, and Ryan's final thoughts before race day! Special thanks to Brooks, the presenting sponsor of this week's race coverage. Sponsors: Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.   Additional Links: Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeSupport the show

Brett Hornig and Corrine Malcolm join the show to preview the women’s field at the 2024 Western States 100. We cover top storylines and what to watch for, we answer some listener mail about the race, we analyze the field and categorize who we see as contenders for the win, for the podium, and the top 10, and we close with some of Corrine’s bold predictions for Saturday. Buckle up, because it’s another entertaining one. Special thanks to Brooks, the presenting sponsor of this week's race coverage.     Sponsors: Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.   Additional Links: Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube Follow Corrine on Instagram, FreetrailSupport the show

Brett Hornig and Mike McMonagle join the show to help preview the men’s field at the 2024 Western States 100. We cover top storylines and what to watch for, we answer some listener mail about the race, we analyze the field and categorize who we see as contenders for the win, for the podium, and the top 10, and we close with some of Mike’s bold predictions for Saturday. Buckle up, because it’s an entertaining one. Special thanks to Brooks, the presenting sponsor of this week's race coverage.    Sponsors: Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.  Additional Links: Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube Follow Mike on Instagram, WebsiteSupport the show

Dylan Bowman and Jim Walmsley stop by the Singletrack studio in Olympic Valley, CA ahead of the 2024 Western States 100 to chat it up about the race, the sport at large, and life in general. Thanks to both of these guys! Special thanks to Brooks, the presenting sponsor of this week's race coverage. Sponsors: Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order. Additional Links: Follow Dylan on Instagram, Freetrail, TrailConFollow Jim on InstagramFollow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube Support the show

I am joined by co-host Brett Hornig to present our coverage plan for the 2024 Western States 100. From Monday, June 24th through Friday, June 28th we're livestreaming 10 athlete interviews, 5 influencer/operator conversations, and 5 pre-race daily shows from our studio in Olympic Valley. Stay tuned for more information, especially details about daily content schedules, listener and viewer giveaways, and Wednesday group run,  posted on the Singletrack YouTube and Instagram channels as we get closer to race week. Special thanks to Brooks, the presenting sponsor of our content. Sponsors: Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order. Additional Links: Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, YoutubeFollow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube Support the show