Runner and Coach Andy Jones-Wilkins talks with trail running athletes, coaches and race directors about topical subjects. Each episode features a beverage and will last as long as it typically takes to leisurely enjoy the beverage.
The Crack A Brew With AJW podcast is a fantastic addition to the world of running podcasts. As someone who has always enjoyed AJW's interviews and columns, it is a joy to hear his personality come alive in this podcast. What sets AJW apart is his ability to straddle the line between elite running and the mindset of a mid-packer. It doesn't matter if you're an ultrarunner or not, AJW's insights and stories will inspire and resonate with runners of all levels.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is the depth and variety of topics that are covered. From discussing race strategy to mental toughness, AJW brings his wealth of knowledge and experience to each episode. The conversations with guests are engaging and provide valuable insights into the world of trail running. Whether it's hearing about their training routines or their most memorable races, these interviews offer a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to succeed in the sport.
Another standout aspect of this podcast is AJW's genuine passion for running. His love for the sport shines through in every episode, making it incredibly infectious for listeners. He has a talent for storytelling that keeps you captivated from start to finish, whether he's recounting his own experiences or sharing anecdotes from other runners. It's evident that he truly cares about spreading his love for running and inspiring others along their journey.
While there aren't many negative aspects to this podcast, one minor drawback could be the lack of episodes available at the time of writing this review. As someone who thoroughly enjoyed the first few episodes, I am eagerly looking forward to more content from Crack A Brew With AJW. However, considering how well-received these initial episodes have been, I have no doubt that future episodes will deliver even more depth and entertainment.
In conclusion, The Crack A Brew With AJW podcast is a must-listen for any runner looking for inspiration and valuable insights into the world of trail running. AJW's unique perspective and genuine passion for the sport make him an incredible host, and his conversations with guests offer a fascinating look into the minds of top athletes. Whether you're an ultrarunner or simply enjoy hitting the pavement, this podcast is sure to leave you motivated and excited for your next run.
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Topher Gaylord, veteran ultrarunner and President of the Board of Directors of the Western States 100. In their conversation they discuss the tradition of honoring older runners at Western States, the outlook for the 2025 race, and the long term future of the event. Follow Topher on Instagram @tgaylord
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with 72 year old Jan Vleck from Olympia, Washington to discuss his transition from roads to trails, his love of the Pacific Northwest Trail scene, and his specific training on the road to the 2025 Western States.
In this episode of AJW Unplugged AJW reflects on his recent experience running the Cocodona 250. Along the way he ruminates about some of the people he met, the lessons he learned, and the ways in which the event will likely alter the way he makes his way in the world. Follow AJW on Instagram @ajoneswilkins
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with 80 year old Nick Bassett who last finished Western States at the age of 73 and is attempting to become the first 80 year old to complete the race. In this wide ranging discussion they discuss training, race execution, and Nick's long history with the event.
In this episode AJW Cracks a brew with 70 year old Oregonian Ed Willson to talk about his training for Western States and what he feels are the "Four Pillars of Success" for older Western States runners.
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with 74 year old Michael Koppy, an accomplished ultrarunner from Duluth, Minnesota. Michael talks about his career running 200+ mile races and his long 10 year journey to the Western States starting line. Consider a contribution to Michael's favorite charity, the Duluth YMCA
In this first episode of Season 10 AJW cracks a brew with French ultrarunner Michel Polletti. Michel is one of six 70+ year olds in this year's Western States and in this episode he explains why he is undertaking a particularly unorthodox approach to the race in 2025. Check out Michel's results here
In this latest AJW Unplugged Episode AJW dives into the last two Golden Ticket Races, talks about the incredible new Cocodona 250 film "The Chase", and shares some reflections on how his life has changed since becoming a grandfather. Follow AJW on Instagram @ajoneswilkins
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Andy Blow, founder and CEO of Precision Fuel and Hydration. In this episode they discuss the origin story of Precision Fuel and Hydration, recent advances in athlete strategies, and thoughts on the future of endurance sports performance. Learn all about Precision Fuel and Hydration here Read Hayden Hawks' Western States Case Study here Read Robbie Britton's Leadville 100 Case Study here
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with up and coming ultrarunner Shea Aquilano to discuss her early career in running, her 5 year history with the Black Canyon 100K and her hopes and dreams for her first run at the Western States 100. Follow Shea on Instagram @shea_aq
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Joe "Stringbean" McConaughey. After seven attempts Joe finally got his Western States golden ticket on his eighth try. In this episode AJW and Joe discuss his journey to Western States, his experiences and advice for Cocodona 250 and his plans for the 2025 Western States. Follow Joe on Instagram @thestring.bean
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Zoe Rom and Kylee Van Horn, the host of the "Your Diet Sucks" podcast. In this wide ranging conversation they touch on the myths and mysteries of endurance athletes diets and some of the ways athlets of all types can sift through the noise. Find Zoe's and Kylee's podcast here
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with North American Ultrarunner of the Year Hayden Hawks. They discuss Hayden's excitement at being crowned ultrarunner of the year, some of his favorite memories from 2024, and his hopes for even bigger and better things in 2025. Follow Hayden on instagram @hawks_hayden Special hank you to Hayden's sponsors HOKA, Precision Fuel and Hydration, COROS, Squirrels Nut Butter, SIDAS, SunGod, and CurraNZ
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with 2024 Cocodona 250 winner Haroldas Subertas. In a fun, free-form conversation they discuss Harry's race at Cocodona, how he ended up in the US and what he is doing to prepare for his first Western States in June. Follow Harry on Instagram @harry_subertas
In this first episode of Season 9 AJW cracks a brew with legendary Colorado Ultrarunner Darcy Piceu to discuss high altitude running, her memories of the early days in her career, and her incredible legacy at the Hardrock 100. Follow Darcy on Instagram @darcypq
In this year end episode of AJW Unplugged AJW looks back on his predictions from 2024, makes a few more predictions for 2025, and provides listeners with an update both personally and professionally. AJWs 2024 Predictions AJWs 2025 Predictions Pictured left to right; Chris Worden, AJW, Rob Martin.
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Finn Melanson to discuss the year in ultrarunning. In addition to sharing their picks for these prestigious awards they also comment on rookie of the year, surprise of the year, most inspirational of the year, and best trail running film of the year. They wrap up with predictions for 2025. Check out Finn's excellent podcast here Like a Lead Balloon by Billy Yang Alpine Connections produced by Nnormal Pictured: AJW (in denim vest) and Finn at the Georgia Death Race 2019, the first time they met.
In this episode AJW welcomes Don Freeman and Scott Warr from Trail Runner Nation to look back on the Council of Elders Series and reflect on some of the "golden nuggets" that emerged out of those conversations. And, along the way, producer Ryan Warr chimes in with some great nuggets of his own! Check out Trail Runner Nation here Check out Stan Jensen's Web Site here
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with veteran ultrarunner to discuss her dramatic finish at the 2017 Western States as well as her unique approach to the mind/body connection and some of her secrets to success over a long career in the sport. Check out Karen's website here Listen to Karen's podcast here Watch Karen's 2017 Western States finish here
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with veteran ultrarunner and writer Jeff Kozak. In their wide ranging discussion they touch on the intersection of writing and running, some of Jeff's fondest 100 mile memories, and the wild and wooly Quarry Road Aid Station at Western States where Jeff has volunteered for the past several years. Read Jeff's Ultrarunning Magazine column here.
In this episode of the Council of Elders, AJW chats with Eric Clifton about his early days in trail and ultrarunning, brain an east coaster running big West Coast races, and the art and science of aging gracefully in the sport. Eric does not participate in social media but if you want to see something incredible check out his Ultrasignup page here!
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Arizona legend Geri Kilgariff. Back in 2002 Geri and a few friends staged the first ever Javelina Jundred. Little did they know what it would become. Sit back, relax and enjoy some great stories from one of the all-time greats in Arizona trail running. Geri stays away from social media but for a glimpse into the old days at Javelina check out this video from the 2007 race.
In this episode AJW Cracks a Brew with ultrarunning legend David Horton. In their wide ranging conversation they discuss David's intense training regimen in his yourh, his experiences at some of the most iconic events in the sport, and his work in recent years as a race director. Check out David's website.
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with John Medinger to talk about how he discovered the trails, his early days as a runner, the Ultrarunning Magazine, Ultrarunner of the Year voting, and some of his fondest memories gathered over four decades at the Western States 100. Learn more about John on his Facebook page @johnmedinger
In this latest edition of AJW Unplugged AJW reflects on his experiences this summer at Western States, Hardrock and Leadville, provides some early thoughts on North American Ultrarunner of the Year, and gives an update on his own running and life. Follow AJW on Instagram @ajoneswilkins Learn about AJW's coaching practice here https://trainright.com/coaches/andy-jones-wilkins/
In this episode AJW sits down with veteran ultrarunner and Cocodona 250 Race Director to learn about his background in running and event production as well as the unique challenges and opportunities of directing North America's most prestigious 200+ mile race. Learn all about the Cocodona 250 here https://cocodona.com/
In this episode AJW chats with Arizona ultrarunner Callie Vinson to discuss her journey to 200+ mile success as well as her incredibly inspiring story of personal triumph. Follow Callie on Instagram @callievinsonn
In this special episode AJW cracks a brew with David Roche a few days after his historic course record performance at the Leadville 100. In a wide ranging discussion they discuss the history of the race, David's training plan, his nutrition strategy and his flawless race day execution. Follow David on instagram @mountainroche Read Matt Carpenter's report on his 2005 Leadville finish here.
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Don Freeman, a veteran of over 50 ultras including a handful of 200 milers, to discuss the mysterious 200 mile distance, his thoughts on the evolution of the sport, and his "other" career as a pioneer podcaster with Trail Runner Nation. Follow Don on instagram @trailrunnernation and visit the extensive podcast archives of Trail Runner Nation at trailrunnernation.com
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with veteran 200 mile runner Mike McKnight to learn more about his transition to 200 milers, his thoughts on the mystique of Arizona's Cocodona 250, and his exciting plans for the 2025 season. Follow Mike on instagram @thelowcarbrunner
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with accomplished 200 mile runner and artist Mika Thewes. They discuss her background as an art student ot Rhode Island School of Design, her passion for running really long distances, and her extraordinary experience at the 2024 Cocodona 250. Follow Mika on Instagram @sugarcrashvegan
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with 2024 Cocodona 250 winner Rachel Entrekin. Along the way they discuss her introduction into the sport, the differences between fixed time events and long trail races, her Cocodona experience and some thoughts about the future of super long runs. You can read Rachel's blog: Another dumb running blog – y'all welcome (wordpress.com) Support Rachel's GoFundMe: Fundraiser by Rachel Entrekin : Apparently, running is expensive (gofundme.com) Follow her on instagram at @rachel__entrekin And, learn more about Tepache. TEPACHE: A Modern Mexican Soda made from fresh pineapples! – De La Calle - Tepache)
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Jeff Garmire, an incredibly accomplished mountain athlete from Montana who successfully blurs the lines between thru hiking, FKTs and Ultramarathons. Follow Jeff here to read all about the new race he is putting on, his book, his film, and all of his adventures: Twitter Facebook Instagram
In this solo episode of Crack a Brew with AJW I present my Western States Preview, some reflections on last month's Cocodona 250, and an update on my own journey both professionally and personally. Learn about my coaching practice here Follow me on Instagram @ajoneswilkins
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with legendary runner and Western States Board President Diana Fitzpatrick to discuss her running career, her most fond Western States memories and the various challenges of her role as Western States Board President. Follow Diana on Instagram @dianafitz11
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with renowned ultrarunning personality Corrine Malcolm to talk about her upbringing in the upper midwest, the Western States 100 and her thoughts on the evolution of ultra and trail running media. Follow Corrine on instagram @corrinemalcolm
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with the 2014 Western States champion to discuss her early years in Minnesota, her incredible win at Western States, and her incredibly busy life as a coach/nutritionist with CTS. Follow Stephanie Howe on instagram @stephaniemariehowe Learn about Stephanie's coaching practice here Read Research Essentials for Ultrarunning here
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with two time Western States champion to discuss what trail running means to them, the magic and mystique of the Western States 100, and Rob's annual ultrarunning camp which is one of the most successful in the United States. Follow Rob on Instagram @robkrar Learn all about the Rob Krar Ultra Camp here
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Western States legend Scotty Mills to discuss his 20 finishes, the uniqueness of the trail and ultra community, and Scotty's thoughts about the future of the sport. Become a friend with Scotty on Facebook @Scottmills
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Meghan Canfield, AKA "The Queen" to talk about the transition from fast marathons to trail running, her keys to ultrarunning longevity, and her extraordinary legacy at the Western States 100. Follow Meghan on Instagram @runningmegleg
In the first episode of Season 6 AJW cracks a brew with Western States legend Tim Twietmeyer to discuss the early days of the race, Tim's role as a long time board member for the event, and his thoughts on the future of the sport. Here is a great bio on Tim https://www.backcountryrunner.com/bios/tim-twietmeyer.phtml
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Jeff Browning, aka Bronco Billy, to discuss his upbringing on a farm in Missouri, the keys to his longevity at the top of the sport and the challenge of transitioning from 100 to 200 mile races and beyond. Follow Jeff on instagram @gobroncobilly
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Australian ultrarunner Lucy Bartholomew to discuss her early years in the sport, Western States and her adopted hometown of Auburn, California and her extraordinary relationship with her ultrarunning dad. Follow Lucy on Instagram @lucy_bartholomew Check out Dylan Harris' incredible film "Lucy's Dad"
In this episode AJW chats with Magda Boulet about transitioning from road marathons to the trails as well as her role as President of Gu Sports and their mutual passion for the Western States 100. Follow Magda on Instagram @runboulet Read the Western States Mission and Values statement here
In this episode AJW sits down with runner/philosopher Sabrina Little to discuss her running background, her favorite races, and her passion for both running and writing. They also have a great conversation about Sabrina's new book "The Examined Run" Follow Sabrina on Instagram @sabrinablittle Buy Sabrina's book here!
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with legendary Southern California runner Ben Hian. They discuss the early years of trail runner sponsorship, the vibrant San Diego trail community, and Ben's pursuit of greatness at the Angeles Crest 100 in the 1990's. See the pic from 1999 at Holcomb Valley Learn about Ben's company at radreps.com
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with veteran runner and writer John Trent. Along the way they discuss their mutual passion for Western States, the role their families have played in their running careers, and the way in which running and writing intersect for them. Follow John on instagram @trent4964 Buy a copy of John's book "Second Sunrise" here
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Emily Hawgood fresh off her 3rd place in the Ultrarunner of the Year voting. They discuss her life growing up in Zimbabwe, her incredible 2023 racing season, and their mutual love of the Western States 100. Follow Emily on Instagram @emilyhawgood
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with veteran ultrarunner Ian Torrence. They discuss Ian's early introduction to the sport, his groundbreaking 1999 season and his long term relationship with both the Zane Grey 50 Miler and the JFK 50 Miler. Follow Ian on Instagram @itgoesinflag Read my feature on Ian here
In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Finn Melanson to discuss the year in ultrarunning. In addition to sharing their picks for these prestigious awards they also comment on rookie of the year, surprise of the year, mosti inspirational of the year, and best trail running film of the year. They wrap up with predictions for 2024. Check out Finn's excellent podcast here! Here is link for "Lucy's Dad" and here is the link to "The Long Way Home"
AJW cracks a brew with Western States legend Kaci Lickteig as she begins the build up to her 10th attempt at the Western States 100. They also discuss her full-time job as a Physical Therapist and why she loves running in Arizona so much. Follow Kaci on Instagram Check out our Website
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