Podcasts about Barkley Marathons

Only twenty people have finished the Barkley Marathons in forty years. John Kelly has finished it twice. But between those two finishes, he quit from first place after two loops because he already knew what the remaining sixty hours would cost, and it did not seem worth it.   Joe De Sena sits down with John, an ultra runner who has covered 260 miles through January storms on the Pennine Way, chased the Appalachian Trail speed record for 1,900 miles before injury stopped him 300 miles short, and built an altitude chamber in his home office to fix the one weakness his body refused to train away.   They break down the difference between short-race decay and ultra-distance recovery cycles, why the sunk-cost fallacy can actually keep you alive past mile eighty, and how Kelly applied the resilience he built through running when Hurricane Helene destroyed his community.   Things You Will Learn: The difference between short-race decay and ultra-distance low points and why confusing them causes most DNFs. Why the runner who quit from first place at the hardest race on earth came back and finished it two more times. A three-part framework for pushing through collapse: zoom out, zoom in, and treat the low point as the lesson. Tools & Frameworks Covered: Zoom Out / Zoom In: When you hit a low, zoom out to remember everything you invested and why quitting now would waste it. Then zoom in to the next step, the next hill, the next aid station. Toggle between the two as needed. Voluntary Artificial Adversity: Deliberately choose controlled suffering in training and racing so that when real adversity arrives, the resilience muscle is already trained. Reframe the Goal After First Success: Once you have proven you can finish, shift the motivation from "Can I do this?" to "How much can I learn about myself?"   If this episode moved you, do not just listen. Do something about it. Sign up. Show up. Do the work. Spartan.com. No more excuses.   Chapters: 0:00 Intro: John Kelly is running from an altitude chamber in his office 0:50 Finishing Barkley twice and how long he has been running 1:17 How fast can you still run a mile at 140 pounds 1:43 Nutrition changes as an aging ultra runner 2:07 The difference between training for a marathon and training for a hundred miler 2:21 Short-race decay vs. ultra-distance low points 3:48 David Horton's advice: it does not always get worse 4:12 Growing up in rural East Tennessee with no running culture 5:01 The kid who wanted to be a great explorer 6:06 Why mountains look different at running pace than at highway speed 7:21 The Barkley Marathons: 120 miles, 70,000 feet of elevation, 20 finishers in 40 years 9:08 The Appalachian Trail speed record attempt 10:09 Why the investment before the race determines grit inside the race 11:47 Four strategies for getting through the worst moments in a hundred miler 14:00 Quitting from first place at Barkley 14:27 Shifting from "Can I finish?" to "What can I learn about myself?" 15:15 Western States 100 and the shift back to speed 16:16 The Spine Race in January: why the worst conditions strip you to your core 17:02 The altitude chamber: an 8x8x8 cube simulating 14,000 feet 17:54 Why altitude resilience is DNA and adaptation, not just fitness 19:48 Three lessons from a man who runs unreasonable distances 20:05 Do not underestimate yourself 21:00 Voluntary artificial adversity: training the resilience muscle before you need it 22:07 Hurricane Helene destroyed his community and ultra running prepared him 23:06 Alex Honnold on missing a flight: perspective as a survival skill John Kelly is one of the most respected ultrarunners in the world, known for mastering the brutal Barkley Marathons while balancing life as a Tech Co-founder, machine learning expert, and father of four. In 2024, he became only the second person ever to finish Barkley three times, proving elite performance doesn't require a full-time athlete lifestyle. John approaches endurance like an engineering problem, using data, systems, and relentless experimentation to push beyond human limits. His story blends resilience, failure, discipline, and the pursuit of impossible challenges.   Connect to John: Website: https://randomforestrunner.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/randomforestrunner/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RandomForestRunner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyjw

This week, we're talking with a guy who just did something absolutely incredible... and somehow made it look almost normal.Fresh off his overall win at the Last Annual Heart of the South, Phil Perkins joins us to break down one of the most unique races in ultrarunning.The race covers an eye-popping 355 miles through Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee, giving runners nearly six days to chase the finish line—and this year, Phil chased it all the way to the top, taking the win in an incredible 5 days, 15 hours, and change.And if the race sounds a little off... that's because it is.Last Annual Heart of the South is the brainchild of Gary 'Lazarus Lake' Cantrell—better known simply as Laz. The legendary race director behind the infamous Barkley Marathons has built a reputation for creating events that are equal parts endurance challenge, scavenger hunt, and psychological experiment. His races aren't just about covering miles; they're about discovering what happens when people are pushed far beyond what they think is possible.Heart of the South fits that mold perfectly. It's not just a race from point A to point B. It's an odyssey across three states, through brutal summer heat, sleep deprivation, and the kind of fatigue that strips everything down to your most basic self.But Phil isn't just another guy collecting belt buckles. He's also one of the more thoughtful voices in the ultra community, known for his blog Chasing 10K, where he writes about everything from avoiding burnout to finding what "good enough" really means in a sport that constantly asks for more.We'll talk about:What draws someone to a race this longThe highs, lows, and hallucinations of multi-day runningHow to stay in the sport for the long haul without burning outWhether winning changes the way you look at yourself as a runnerWhat it's like to take on a race dreamed up by Laz himselfIf someone handed you a bib for a 355-mile race tomorrow... would you say yes?Join us Monday, July 6th at 7:30pm (EST) for an incredible conversation with one of ultrarunning's most thoughtful grinders, and a guy proving that endurance isn't just about how far you can go—it's about how long you can keep showing up.New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount!

Nickademus de la Rosa is no stranger to mountaintops, of both the literal and metaphorical variety.  For much of the 2010s he was at the top of the ultrarunning world, rattling off podium appearances at some of the longest, toughest and most iconic events in the sport, and boasting a list of completions almost as long as the races themselves. Of all the highs, perhaps none was greater than his finish at the 2013 Barkley Marathons, a race often deemed the toughest in the world, with only 26 finishes in its 30+ year history.  Yet, while a victory on one of the sport's greatest stages brought the promise of a legacy cemented, it also served to further deepen an identity rooted in performance, one perpetuated by a constant striving for the next win. While de la Rosa's immense talent for the trails allowed him to dictate his own story for years, his performance-centric identity collapsed when an abrupt diagnosis and open-heart surgery forced him to retire from competition in 2017. What followed were years of soul-searching and grappling to rediscover a sense of self outside of sport.  That journey ultimately led him to mental performance coaching, using his education in sport and performance psychology and the hard-earned lessons from his own career to help athletes separate their self-worth from performance and free themselves to compete at their best. Today on The Shakeout Podcast, Nick shares from his own journey of mountaintops and valley bottoms, how's he reshaped a relationship with the sport he loves that's built for the long run, and how stepping away from the narrow constraints of the podium can help us all get the most out of the sport we love.  Subscribe to The Shakeout Podcast feed on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you find your podcasts. Checkout Nickademus on social media @ultrademus [This collaboration is part of an advertising campaign led by the Podpass agency for Altitude Sports] Shop now at Altitude Sports and enjoy up to 20% off your first order with the promo code “SHAKEOUT2026” Click here to order

This week we were lucky enough to spend an hour with the incredible David Miller. It was such a treat to hear the stories behind so many of the iconic images that define our sport. It turned into a super‑relaxed chat about running, Zoom vs Teams, the Barkley Marathons, and of course his upcoming book — SPINE: The Story of the Montane Winter Spine Race.SPINE is the definitive visual story of Britain's most brutal ultramarathon, a premium photography book by David Miller, created in collaboration with Vertebrate Publishing and the organisers of the Montane Winter Spine Race.KICKSTARTER - https://bit.ly/4oDqw2gHARRIER - Use code TATP10 for 10% off - https://harrierrunfree.avln.me/c/qXhnTgIdEMeaXMILES UK - Listeners receive 10% of their order value back as store credit via the link - https://xmiles.avln.me/c/RiwxnARvfHeRFENIX LIGHT LTD - Use code T&T5 for 5% - https://www.fenixlight.co.uk/PRECISION FUEL & HYDRATION - Use code TEA2026 for 15% off your first orderPRECISION FUEL & HYDRATION PLANNER - https://visit.pfandh.com/3RuP25zSTRAVA - Use code TEA for 20% off an annual membership - #StravaPartner #Adhttps://www.strava.com/subscribe/checkout?code=TEASUNGOD - Use code TEA15 for 15% off your order - https://www.sungod.co/en-gbBEARHUG - Click the link to receive 15% off your order.https://getabearhug.avln.me/c/PAmERmkwPealContent contains affiliate links which help support this channel at no cost to you.Brew with the Coaches - CLICK HEREHardmoors - https://www.hardmoors110.org.uk/Trail Outlaws - https://www.trailoutlaws.com/13 Valleys Ultra - https://www.13valleysultra.com/Beyond Trails - https://www.beyondtrails.co.uk/Hellfire Events - https://www.hellfireevents.com/Dales Runner - https://dalesrunner.co.uk/Run The Wild - https://runthewild.co.uk/Hannah Walsh - https://www.hannahwalsh.co.uk/Punk Panther - https://www.punkpanther.co.uk/Pen Llyn Ultra - https://penllyn.niftyentries.com/Yellow Belly Ultra - https://yellowbellyultras.co.uk/Raw Adventures - https://www.raw-adventures.co.uk/XNRG - https://www.xnrg.co.uk/

Send us Fan MailThey say that a game is well-officiated when you don't even notice the referees or umpires. I sure can't say that about this NBA Finals, where the officiating has been atrocious. But if you've ever run an ultramarathon, especially a multiday race, and didn't notice the timer, it might have been because that was Mike Melton of MCM Timing, the absolute best in the business. I inherited Mike for the American Heroes Run after David unexpectedly passed away less than four months before the race and I suddenly took up the mantle of race director, and boy, did I get lucky because Mike ensured that not only would the race not miss a beat in the transition, but I've had a partner ever since that has helped me maintain the highest quality in the race running smoothly, with accurate timing and results. Mike and his company have timed everything from 5Ks to many of the most significant ultras in North America, including the Barkley Marathons, Big's Backyard Ultra, Six Days in the Dome, Across the Years, the Keys 100, and many more. In fact, he is on the road in his Sprinter van that has 500,000 miles on it for 265 days a year. He has seen it all and has some great stories to tell here. In fact, so many that I have split this conversation into two parts. Mike also shares his origin story in the timing business and as a runner. Many might not know that Mike ran 171 miles in 72 hours at Across the Years, and has a very respectable 100-mile PR of 22:49. Mike also tells about how he and David connected for the very first American Heroes Run and how it led to the development of the software that Mike now uses for races that run laps.Mike MeltonFacebook Mike MeltonBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastPlease consider donating to support Team Leadville and Boulder Crest to help end veteran suicide!  Donate, share, or just help spread the word to help end veteran suicide. Thank you very much!https://weblink.donorperfect.com/BoulderCrestFoundation/2026TeamLeadville/BillStahl Subscribe to our Substack for my archive of articles of coaching tips developed from my more than three decades of experience, wild and funny stories from my long coaching career, the wit and wisdom of David, and highlights of some of the best WASP episodes from the past that I feel are worthwhile giving another listen.Search either We Are Superman Podcast or @billstahl8Register for the American Heroes Run: https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=133138

Before Jade Bellsberg was winning races and competing against some of the best trail runners in the world, she was a writer filling notebook after notebook with stories.In this conversation, Jade shares her unconventional path into ultrarunning, from crewing the Barkley Marathons before she'd ever run an ultra, to tackling Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim, building a coaching business, pursuing FKTs, and eventually becoming a professional trail runner.We talk about why she still identifies as a writer first, how she balances competition with enjoyment, the mental side of racing, working with a sports psychologist, coaching athletes, and why consistency matters far more than talent.We also dive into her unique life outside of racing, including how she and her husband somehow manage a household with 21 animals while traveling to races around the world.This was one of my favorite conversations recently because it's a reminder that there is no single path into trail running. You never know where curiosity, consistency, and a willingness to try something new might lead.Follow Jade and check out her writing, especially if you enjoy thoughtful reflections on running, racing, and the outdoors.Support our Sponsors: Sawyer: https://sawyerdirect.net/Janji (code: Freeoutside): https://snp.link/a0bfb726CS Coffee: CSinstant.coffeeGarage Grown Gear: https://snp.link/db1ba8abSubscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.comSupport this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutsideBuy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSFEmail me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.comWatch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outsideWebsite: www.Freeoutside.comInstagram: thefreeoutsidefacebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside#Trailrunning #Runningnews #Outdoors #Outdooradventure

Helen-Ann Hartley is the current Bishop of Newcastle and, as a member of the 'Lords Spiritual', has a seat in the UK House of Lords. She's also about to take on her first ultramarathon, the 43 mile Sprint Summer North race.She joins me and Matt to cover her running journey to this point and how her life and work have influenced and cemented her love of running, particularly as a large portion of the Spine course passes through her parish in the north of England. So please join us for a very interesting episode where we find out about her friendship with Keith Dunn - the voice of the Barkley Marathons on Twitter - her experience at the London marathon in 2026 and more surprising facts about this inspiring woman. Thanks again to all of you for listening. If you have a moment please, like, subscribe and if you have a few seconds more, perhaps write a short review. It's all a great help to us in growing the audience and is very much appreciated!Jay and Matt

Most runners train hard and eat like an afterthought. In this episode, Isobel and Ron break down the nutrition fundamentals that directly support your training: not the fads, not the noise, just what the research actually says and what she's learned from years of racing and coaching at the sharp end of the sport.They cover the biggest mistake runners make with food (hint: it's not eating too much), why carbohydrates are not the enemy, how much protein you actually need as an endurance athlete, and why your gut health might be the thing standing between you and your next finish line.Ron also weighs in, because someone has to represent the people who just eat whatever and hope for the best.In this episode:RED-S — the underfuelling syndrome that's wrecking performance for more runners than you thinkThe carbohydrate conversation (and why low-carb isn't the answer for most of you)Protein targets for endurance athletes, the numbers will probably surprise youTiming your nutrition around training — what actually mattersGut health, GI distress, and why race day is not the time to experimentThis is training nutrition: day-to-day eating that builds a body that can handle the work. Race-day fuelling is a separate episode entirely.If this episode makes you realise your nutrition needs a proper look, start with booking a call at peakendurancecoaching.com.auPeak Endurance Coaching is based in Melbourne, Australia. Isobel Tait is a Level 3 Sports Nutritionist, UESCA certified ultra running and endurance nutrition coach, and three-time Australian representative at the World Long Distance Mountain Running Championships, as well as competing at The Barkley Marathons three times.

Harvey Lewis is an American ultrarunner, high school teacher, and endurance athlete from Cincinnati, Ohio. He is best known for winning the 2023 Big's Backyard Ultra World Championship after running 450 miles over 108 hours, setting an American backyard ultra record in 2025 with 462.5 miles, and winning the Badwater 135 ultramarathon twice. Harvey has also competed in the Barkley Marathons, represented Team USA in 24-hour world championship events, and recently completed his 100th marathon.

Your crew shows up on race day wanting to help. The problem is you never told them how.In this episode, Isobel and Ron (who has crewed Isobel for years) break down exactly what a good crew needs to know before race day, and why most athletes get this completely wrong.They cover what actually happens at crew points when the briefing hasn't happened, what a proper race plan looks like from the crew's perspective and how to handle the mental and emotional side of crewing.Ron brings a perspective you don't often hear: what it's actually like to stand at a crew point watching someone you care about suffer, and what makes his job easier every single time.What we cover:What crewing actually is and what it isn'tWhat a crew needs to know from your race planNutrition, gear, and logistics: the specifics that get missedThe mental stuff: what your dark place looks like and what you want your crew to sayWhat to do when an athlete is seriously considering droppingFree download mentioned in this episode: Crew Race Day Briefing Template → https://go.peakendurancecoaching.com.au/crew-briefingWork with Peak Endurance Coaching:https://form.jotform.com/261448771119058Peak Endurance Coaching is based in Melbourne, Australia. Isobel Tait is a three-time Australian representative at the World Long Distance Mountain Running Championships, three-time Barkley Marathons competitor, and founder of Peak Endurance Coaching.

Some people sign up for a 5K. Some people sign up for a race with a secret start time, no marked course, and books hidden in the woods. Or seven marathons on seven continents in seven days. We have questions. Meet Jared Campbell, the only person ever to finish the Barkley Marathons four times - a secretive, nearly mythic race through the Tennessee woods with an unmarked course, brutal climbs, and pages torn from hidden books as proof you were there. And Dr. Lisa Kenton is an ER doctor who pushed through ice, heat, and near-total exhaustion in the Great World Race, fueled by a cause close to her heart. Suggested episodes: Extreme ironing, cheese rolling, and shin kicking: The world of weird sports From wingsuit BASE jumping to record-breaking South Pole expeditions with Ellen Brennan Frat and Liv Arnesen A marathon swimmer and ultrarunner: surviving cancer, breaking records Banjo Man, 'Woo Woo' Wickers and UConn Huskies superfans share their love of the game Roller skating as community, competition, and transformation Multiple sclerosis tried to bench her. Karen Smith won gold instead GUESTS: Jared Campbell: the only four-time finisher of the Barkley Marathons - one of the world’s most punishing, quirky, and mysterious races Dr. Lisa Kenton: emergency room doctor at The Hospital of Central Connecticut who completed the Great World Race - seven marathons on seven continents in seven days - in November 2025. She dedicated the journey to raising awareness and funds for Malan syndrome, a rare genetic condition that affects her niece and nephew. Support the show: https://www.wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kaz has a PhD in human behaviour and MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology, and has studied our power to perform when faced with adversity. Passionate about helping people believe in themselves she explores what is it about our fears, courage, resilience, and mindset, that drives us to succeed or sabotages us? And Kaz loves to run far.   Her trail running journey started in Chamonix, France with the Mont Blanc Marathon and UTMB races. Favorite adventures include Tahoe 200 (3rd F), Moab 240 (2nd F), Ouray 100 (1st F), Tot Dret, Italy (3rd F) and Across the Years (420 miles in 10 days – 3rd F), plus successfully completing 1 crazy loop of The Barkley Marathons, and most recently finishing Last Annual Vol State, a 500K continuous and self-supported race across Tennessee. Follow the new pod insta @trailrunningwomenpod !! Find Kaz @mountainkaz

Editor in Chief Amy Clark joins host Scotty Sandow to break down the April/May 2026 issue. They discuss mountain racing and what it means for flatlanders chasing UTMB dreams, Amy's firsthand experience at this year's Barkley Marathons, Dr. Nick Tiller's deep dive into AI training plans, a spring shoe review, a in-depth look at fear as a tool rather than a weakness, and the brand new love advice column: The Love Outpost with Schuyler Hall.   Watch this episode on Youtube  Subscribe to Ultrarunning Magazine Presented by Topo Athletic

At 39km into the Buffalo Stampede 100k, I rolled my ankle (and broke it!) and ruptured my ATFL ligament. Boot on. Running stopped. Tor des Géants in September still on the calendar.In this episode, Ron and I talk through what actually happens when a serious injury hits mid-season, not the motivational version, the real one. The emotional crash, the identity hit, the urge to panic-plan at midnight while Googling recovery timelines.We cover:— The right and wrong way to respond in the first 48 hours— Cross training options that actually maintain fitness (and the ones that don't)— Mental coping strategies including visualisation, identity separation, and controlling the controllables— Why volunteering is more useful than most injured athletes think— How to return to running without wrecking yourself a second time— Adjusting race goals without abandoning themIf you're navigating an injury right now — or you coach athletes who are — this one is worth your time.Isobel Tait is the founder of Peak Endurance Coaching, a three-time Barkley Marathons competitor, three-time Australian representative at the World Long Distance Mountain Running Championships, and winner of the Six Foot Track Marathon. She coaches ultra runners on mindset, race preparation, nutrition, and performance.

Gary Cantrell, aussi connu sous le pseudonyme Lazarus Lake, débarque au podcast pour une discussion aussi fascinante qu'inattendue. Avec l'ami Yvan L'Heureux à la co-animation, on plonge dans l'univers de celui à qui l'on doit la mythique Barkley Marathons et l'incontournable Backyard Ultra. Derrière l'image du directeur de course à la cigarette aux lèvres, perçu comme dur ou provocateur, on découvre un homme profondément humain, généreux et admiratif des athlètes qui s'élancent sur ses épreuves. Un pionnier de l'ultra-endurance qui, encore aujourd'hui, continue de se lancer lui-même dans des défis hors normes, comme sa récente traversée des États-Unis à la course. Dans l'épisode, on revient sur l'origine du format Backyard Ultra, inspiré d'un défi qu'il lançait à ses amis à l'adolescence. Une idée simple, devenue un phénomène mondial, où la victoire ne repose pas sur la vitesse, mais sur l'endurance, la résilience et la capacité à durer. On discute aussi de l'importance des “Danny”, ces coureurs amateurs qui surpassent les attentes dans ses formats de course atypiques, et qui incarnent, selon Laz, la véritable essence du trail. Un épisode unique où je déroge de mon créneau francophone, l'instant d'une discussion que je ne pouvais tout simplement pas manquer, avec une légende vivante de notre sport. Bonne écoute!*L'équipe de la Big Wolf's Backyard offre un rabais de 50 % sur l'inscription à leur événement du 9 mai prochain à Lévis. Cette offre est disponible jusqu'à épuisement des stocks : https://www.bigwolfsbackyardultra.ca/wp-admin/admin-ajax.php?action=frm_forms_preview&form=psdblevis273yz644*Magasinez dès maintenant chez Altitude Sports et profitez d'un rabais jusqu'à 20% sur votre première commande avec le code promo PASSORTIDUBOIS2026. Cliquez ici pour commander : https://bit.ly/altitude-passortidubois2026Des conditions s'appliquent : Valide uniquement sur les produits à prix régulier. Valide pour un temps limité suivant l'inscription. Ne peut être jumelé à aucune autre promotion et/ou code rabais. Limité à une utilisation par client. Le rabais membre ne peut être combiné à cette offre.**Le partenariat avec Altitude Sports s'inscrit dans une campagne publicitaire menée par l'agence Podpass.CréditsDesign graphique : David HébertThème musical : Frédérick DesrochesPhoto : Alexis BergIdée originale, production, recherche et animation : Yannick Vézina© Pas sorti du bois 2026

On today's episode, we are welcoming Jasmin Paris to the show. Jasmin is one of the founders of Green Runners, a movement focused on making a green impact in the running community through education and advocacy. Jasmin also is an icon on the trails, as she is most well known for being the only woman to ever finish the Barkley Marathons! This was an awesome conversation touching on all things sustainability in trail running and as individuals, to the footprint of something like the Barkley Marathons.  Follow along Green Runners at @the.green.runners or Jasmin Paris at @jasminparis_fellrunner on Instagram. You can also find out more on Green Runners at https://thegreenrunners.com/.   You can find more information about The Running Kind here. https://therunningkind.net/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/therunningkind/ @therunningkind_ Aimee Kohler  Founder of The Running Kind @aimskoh Produced by Aimee Kohler Music Dim Red Light by Don Dilego  

Way back in 2023, when Eugene and Matt first spoke to Matt Bixley (on DCR 228 if you are interested), they were impressed not only by the attention he paid to detail in planning his adventures, the scope of the adventures - 18 Keplers (at the time) , a Barkley Marathons, a million rogaines, and an astounding back story, but the sheer ability of the man to spin a great yarn.  Fast forward a couple of years, and we find out that not much has changed. Settle in for round two with Matt, this time with DCR's Andrew McDowall. There's been more Keplers, More Barkley Marathons, and even more adventures with a compass in hand, maybe even a broken rib in there too. I apologize in advance for the test cricket chat. Fun, free-wheeling, and always entertaining, we are stoked to bring you this conversation with the man who literally wrote the crib notes on the Kepler. Dirt Church Radio—Best Enjoyed Running.--- --- --- Episode Links Matt Bixley DCR 228Sign up for the DCR AidStation newsletter.Matt Bixley's Kepler NotesDirt Church Radio on InstagramDirt Church Radio on FacebookFurther Faster New ZealandEnjoy!Music by Andrew McDowall, Digicake

Ultra runner, author and green campaigner Damian Hall is still competing as an elite athlete at the very top of his sport at the age of 50. In this episode he shares some of the insights from his new book, Run Forever: The Secrets To Becoming An Ageless Athlete. We also get the inside story of his recent attempt to complete the world's most infamous race: the Barkley Marathons. Podcast host Adharanand Finn is the author of three award-winning books, Running with the Kenyans (2012), The Way of the Runner (2014), and the Rise of the Ultra Runners (2019). Follow The Way of the Runner podcast on Instagram: @thewayoftherunner or find it at thewayoftherunner.com The podcast is supported by Adharanand's Patreon page, which is full of original and exclusive material: patreon.com/adharanandfinn Music by Starfrosch

March Madness is here… but make it outdoors.We just wrapped round one of Outdoor March Madness and chaos has already taken over. No perfect brackets remain, upsets are happening everywhere, and somehow Nerds Clusters might actually win the whole thing. I break down the biggest results, the closest matchups, and what's coming next as we head toward the Sweet 16.We also raffle off our first prize (shoutout Robbie), and I explain how YOU can win gear, race entries, and more just by voting.On my end, I'm finally back training after breaking my rib at Barkley Marathons. After nearly four weeks off, I've jumped back into big mileage, working toward Cocodona 250. The fitness feels good, the falls do not, and now it's all about dialing in runnable miles, heat training, and race-specific prep.Topics in this episode:Round 1 Outdoor March Madness results and biggest upsetsWhy there are zero perfect brackets leftPrize raffles and how to winMy Cocodona 250 training update post-injuryWhy I keep falling (seriously, what is going on)Early voting trends for Round 2Vote on matchups and follow along:freeoutside.comNew prizes dropping every round. Your vote actually matters.Support our Sponsors: Sawyer: https://sawyerdirect.net/Janji (code: Freeoutside): https://snp.link/a0bfb726CS Coffee: CSinstant.coffeeGarage Grown Gear: https://snp.link/db1ba8abSubscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.comSupport this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutsideBuy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSFEmail me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.comWatch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outsideWebsite: www.Freeoutside.comInstagram: thefreeoutsidefacebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside#Trailrunning #Runningnews #Outdoors #Outdooradventure

On this episode of The Project Endure Podcast, Joe Rinaldi sits down with Mark Lattanzi — adventure racer, navigation expert, and endurance athlete — for a deeply reflective conversation about resilience, problem-solving, and navigating life's inevitable "squiggly lines." Mark shares insights from more than 25 years in adventure racing, including his experiences in extreme events like the Marathon des Sables and the Barkley Marathons, and the mindset required to keep moving forward when conditions become unpredictable and unforgiving. He opens up about a recent shoulder injury after a fall on ice, the physical and mental challenges of multi-day expedition racing, and why the ability to accept reality and adapt quickly often matters more than raw fitness. Joe and Mark explore the parallels between endurance sports and life, including Mark's candid reflection on his divorce — the hardest thing he has faced — and how rebuilding self-confidence required patience, perspective, and time. The conversation also dives into the brutal lessons of the Patagonian Expedition Race, the unique navigation demands of adventure racing, and the mental resilience needed to tackle events that most people would never attempt. From breaking massive challenges into manageable steps to finding joy in the process rather than the outcome, this episode is a powerful reminder that endurance is built through presence, adaptability, and the willingness to keep solving the problem in front of you. Give this episode a listen as we dive deep into Mark's life and learn about what persistence, perspective, and endurance mean to him.   If you found value in this episode and would like to help us grow, please leave the podcast a review on your platform of choice and share it with a friend(s). We appreciate your support!   Follow Mark (here)   Follow Project Endure (here) Project Endure Coaching (here) Join The Hard Things Club (here) Shop Project Endure (here)   Follow Joe (here) Read Joe's Blog (here)

It's time for another Mind Gap Podcast! This week, Justin is joined by Mind Gap all star, Chris Vellucci, while Doug is on special assignment in New York. They kick things off by Justin asking Chris a question he's been wanting to ask for quite some time, "how do you visualize a calendar?" This turns into a debate about how each season ranks against the others. Once that's settled, Chris tells Justin what he's been up to for the past 8 months and about a whitewater rafting trip he's going on in the Grand Canyon. Chris's upcoming adventure leads Justin to inform Chris of a truly wild race called the Barkley Marathons. It won't do it justice to elaborate here, you'll just have to listen to hear how wild this gets.   Things are wrapped up with a new game called 3 in 5, where Chris has 5 seconds to list 3 things belonging to categories Justin has curated.   Check out our YouTube channel! Be sure to like and subscribe for this content as well as episode highlights, Doug Watches Awkward Videos, Justin Plays Video games, and more!   We have MERCH now! Follow us on all of our social medias and other platforms!

The Dirt Division has reviewers around the country. This week we chat about the “art” of reviewing. Hear about our approach to building a profile and our opinions about each shoe we review.Guest: Max King has had a long illustrative career in trail running, and it continues with the support of Kailas Fuga. Most recently he took on the challenge of the Barkley Marathons.SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!LMNTSlim cans are our life, right now. It contains half of the original LMNT recipe with 500mg of sodium and adds some bubbles to the mix. If you prefer the original packets, we do too. You'll be getting 1,000 mg of sodium plus other key electrolytes that will restore balance to your life after any hard effort. You'll also get an 8-count LMNT Sample Pack with any purchase, so don't miss out: http://drinklmnt.com/dirtdivision

Send a text#372 - Have you ever heard a runner call say someone else wasn't "a real runner"? Have you heard someone call someone disparagingly "a jogger"? This person is trying to gatekeep running. Trying to keep others out of certain running circles is nothing new. Fortunately, it's not as common as it used to be, but it still happens. I explore the subject of gatekeeping today. I also talk about why it may be a positive thing in some circumstances. Also, please don't miss the last part of the show, where I give tribute to one of the pioneers in running. Fit, Healthy & Happy Podcast Welcome to the Fit, Healthy and Happy Podcast hosted by Josh and Kyle from Colossus...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showMartha Runs the World websitehttps://www.buzzsprout.com/248027Email:martharunstheworld@gmail.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/martharunstheworld/#

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we are entering the "Yellow Gate." We're sitting down with Jason Bailey to deconstruct his journey from the local trails to the most elusive race on the planet: The Barkley Marathons.Jason takes us behind the scenes of Frozen Head State Park, detailing the grueling progression of his running career and the hyper-specific training required to even stand a chance in Tennessee's toughest woods. We dive into the "Barkley specific" skillset—navigating by map and compass, the adrenaline-fueled hunt for hidden books, and the legendary traditions that make this race a psychological battlefield.This isn't just about miles; it's about the profound meaning found in the struggle and the mental resilience required to face a race designed to make you fail.

Today we look into your race day logistics. Things to think about beforehand so they are not taking up space in your brain on race day. We get into realistic race goals and how to give yourself the best chance for a good race. We talk about how to deal with brick legs off the bike. Is it something you can train more for or is it something you have to get used to. We dive into transition preparation and time saving techniques, some which are guaranteed to save you several minutes if you're not already doing them. And we look at having to go to the bathroom during the race. I know, but it is definitely another area that can cost you a ton of time. We also discuss the recent Barkley Marathons and here's a link to the mini-documentary we referenced..  Barkley Marathons mini-doc. - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXi4xHj4SfU&t=19s Come join us at one of our awesome Camps: Nashville, May 13-17 - https://runsignup.com/Race/TN/Nashville/2026Camp Madison, Wisconsin, July 30-Aug 2 - https://c26triathlon.com/camps/triathlon-camp-wisconsin-2026/ Topics: What is a realistic goal time for a first-time Ironman, and how should I pace each leg Shoot for a wide window… it's like a long putt… trying to make it when you don't need to is risky business….. Fake Fresh What should I put in my bike and run "Personal Needs" bags? How can I manage the "jelly legs" sensation when I start the marathon? What is the best strategy for minimizing time in the transition areas (T1 and T2)? What's the protocol for using the restroom (or peeing) during the race?   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

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

The conch shell blew at 5 a.m. and the 2026 Barkley Marathons began, this time in the anti clockwise direction and on Valentine's Day.In this episode, I break down my full loop at Barkley, from the chaotic descent off Chimney Top to the long climb up Rat Jaw, the prison tunnel, Little Hell, navigation errors, and the final push back to camp just under 14 hours.I also share some of the lesser known history of the race, including how the Barkley nearly disappeared in 2006 before a Tennessee Senate resolution preserved it at Frozen Head State Park. A race born as a joke about a failed prison escape has become one of the most respected endurance tests in the world.This was a strong field. The weather was ideal. The direction was reversed. And for me, it ended with a fall, a hairline rib fracture, and a hard earned lesson.Barkley is never just about finishing. It is about small navigation wins, brutal climbs through thick leaves, and seeing how close you can get to your edge.And this year, it was also about spending Valentine's Day collecting book pages with Allison.Sixteen books. Fourteen hours. One broken rib.The price we pay for love.Support our Sponsors: Sawyer: https://sawyerdirect.net/Janji (code: Freeoutside): https://snp.link/a0bfb726CS Coffee: CSinstant.coffeeGarage Grown Gear: https://snp.link/db1ba8abSubscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.comSupport this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutsideBuy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSFEmail me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.comWatch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outsideWebsite: www.Freeoutside.comInstagram: thefreeoutsidefacebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside#Trailrunning #Runningnews #Outdoors #Outdooradventure

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, ultra runner Eoin Keith (@eoinkeithultra on Instagram) shares his remarkable journey from a non-sporty childhood to becoming one of the most accomplished ultra runners in Ireland. He discusses his transition from marathon running to ultra distances, the challenges he faces during races, and the importance of enjoying the process. Eoin also delves into the unique experiences of the Barkley Marathons, the significance of navigation in ultra running, and how he balances different types of races, including running 900m loops for 6 days, the sleep deprivation, setting records for running the length of the country and his approach to training22:00 Introduction to Eoin Keith's Journey24:45 From Pitch and Putt to Ultra Running27:42 Discovering the Love for Long Distances30:39 Transitioning from Mountaineering to Running33:35 The Marathon Experience and Beyond36:43 The Ultra Running Revelation39:40 Facing Challenges in Ultra Running42:38 The Balance of Flat and Trail Ultra Running45:44 Preparing for Six-Day Races48:42 The Mental Game in Ultra Running52:47 Navigating Sleep Deprivation in Ultra Running55:50 Training for the Unknown: The Challenge of Sleep Deprivation58:28 Questioning Conventional Running Theories59:59 The Barkley Marathons: The Ultimate Test of Endurance64:41 The Rarity of Finishing the Barclay Marathons67:03 The Key to Completing Ultra Races69:10 Shifting Focus: Enjoying the Journey Over Competition72:51 Exploring Multi-Day Races: The Grand Canaria Experience75:44 The Art O'Neill Challenge: A Test of Navigation and EnduranceBe sure to check out Eoin's blog on:https://eoinkeith.wordpress.com/And follow us on Instagram:@anygivenrundaypodcastShop ultrapurelabs.ie to shop the muscle recovery range and get 10% off by buying the Muscle Recovery Kit You can now get 20% off all Perform Nutrition products, including their new Electrolytes+, using the code 'AGR' at checkoutPerformNutrition.com

We recorded this one on the drive home from Frozen Head State Park to Bozeman, while the mud is still on the shoes and the bruises are still fresh. Allison finally gets to talk about the last three months of secret training, the stress of learning map and compass, and what it is like to go from “I might get lost” to “I just found every book” in the same day.Find Allison's Substack: https://allisonhardingpowell.substack.com/We walk through the whole loop from the 6 a.m. start, the chaos at the first book, the long climb up Rat Jaw, and the moment it became clear the time cutoff was slipping away. Then it turns into something better than a time goal, a full team effort with the “Overtime Eight,” eight runners from around the world who worked together, found every page, and finished the loop together, hands on the gate.If you are curious about Barkley, this is a first-timer perspective on what matters most: why you want it, how to balance vert and navigation, how hard the book hunting really is, and why accessible calories can be the difference between moving and melting.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Journey Overview12:02 Balancing Work and Training17:20 Race Day Experience and Strategy28:34 Climbing Ratt Jaw and Race Reflections34:41 Navigating Challenges on the Course46:45 The Power of Group Dynamics54:03 Preparing for the UnexpectedSupport our Sponsors: Sawyer: https://sawyerdirect.net/Janji (code: Freeoutside): https://snp.link/a0bfb726CS Coffee: CSinstant.coffeeGarage Grown Gear: https://snp.link/db1ba8abSubscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.comSupport this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutsideBuy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSFEmail me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.comWatch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outsideWebsite: www.Freeoutside.comInstagram: thefreeoutsidefacebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside#Trailrunning #Runningnews #Outdoors #Outdooradventure

⁠⁠Enio Augusto⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ e ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Marcos Buosi⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ trazem as notícias do mundo da corrida com os comentários, informações, opiniões e análises mais pertinentes, peculiares e inesperadas no Redação PFC. Escute, informe-se e divirta-se.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SEJA MEMBRO DO CANAL!!!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

This week, James Elson is joined by Head of Endurance Robbie Britton to discuss our brand new coaching website. The two go on to discuss the weekly news covering the results from Barkley Marathons, Black Canyon Ultras and Tarawera. Photo: Anne Flower ©Mark Griffith-Black Canyon Ultras – World Trail Majors

Interview with The Barkley Marathons Race Director- 73: Do NOT Be Afraid to Fail: Talking with Gary “Lazarus Lake” Cantrell the Barkley Marathons Man https://youtu.be/BLaQCf8QwDc

En la emisión de esta semana de Territorio Trail repasamos a fondo la Barkley Marathons, en lo que ha sido la edición más temprana e inesperada de su historia. Aroa Sío presenta los objetivos del 2026, una temporada que ha comenzado cosechando un excelente resultado en la Arc of Attrition by UTMB. Continuamos nuestro camino a la Western States 100 con Gerard Morales, descubrimos por qué el Gran Trail Peñalara es el ultratrail que todo corredor debería tener en su currículum, en la sección #PequeñasGrandesCarreras la protagonista es el Trail Torrollones y finalizamos con el resumen del primer mes de entrenamiento específico para el Maratón de Zaragoza y los deberes para las siguientes semanas.

That morning I headed out for my Three Triangles run, planning easy hill repeats with a steady climb that grew progressively steeper before each downhill. I moved through Mount Douglas Park, tracking my pace and heart rate while greeting dog walkers and pausing occasionally for photos of my favourite trees. The second climb averaged about eight percent, pushing me into higher zones than usual, though I tried to stay controlled and focused on steady effort. As I ran, I reflected on my podcast episode, my training philosophy of longevity over extremes, and even shared a few thoughts about the Barkley Marathons. Near the end, about fifty-five minutes in, I recorded my Wednesday trailer on the power line trail and signed off until Sunday.

Join Jordan, Commish, Pitt Girl, Canadian Correspondent Joey, Beth, and our VP of Podcast Production Arthur. The grand opening and grand closing of the Barkley Marathons, Commish got some Elvis sunglasses from the SRS Distribution's Las Vegas Bowl, a little bit of debit card fraud on the committee's account associated with the Sickotine's Giveaway, we dive head first into messy Winter Olympics, first the CURLING BEEF between Sweden and Canada, Joey lets us know what occurred and oh don't touch that granite, they ran out of condoms at the Olympics, first ever South American medal at the Winter Olympics for Lucas Pinheiro Braathen of Brazil (plays samba music), we got a comment on our video from the Gold Medalist Ski Jumper Germany's Phillipp Raimund, more medals for the down bad, baby I'm sorry please take me back, Norweigan Biathlete Sturla Holm Lagried, the credit card fraud convicted France's Julia Simon and two time gold medalist, then to CFB where we get some SACtion as Sac State goes to the MAC for 18 million, Boise State and Idaho renew their nasty, inebriated rivalry, Boise's AD thanks RackofTits69 for the impetus to renew the rivalry, ACC's designated survivor, Pina Colada week in the Pac-12, some Elvis song references throughout and oh so much, much more! Happy Mardi Gras y'all! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 AnnouncementPartners: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

This week, we start with a quick trip into the wilderness where common sense goes to die: the Barkley Marathons went down again, and the course reminded everyone who's boss. Then we bring it back home for a race review of the Sweetheart Run 10K in Overland Park, Kansas, complete with the moments that felt smooth, the parts that bit back, and what the day taught us going forward. From there, we head straight into the pre-Tokyo nerves that a lot of us are feeling right now. If you've heard whispers about Tokyo's cutoff mats and thought, “Wait… cutoffs along the course?” we break it all down in plain English. We talk through why Tokyo's timing system feels different, how starting later can change the math, and what matters most when the clock is doing the chasing. We also share the mindset shift that turns the mats from scary to manageable, especially for back-of-the-pack runners who want to finish strong and stay calm. No panic, no doom, just a clear plan and a little confidence. If Tokyo is on the calendar or if we've ever worried about being “too close” to a cutoff, this episode is for us. Lace up, settle in, and let's run the numbers without letting them run us.

In 1988, before the 100-mile version existed, before the conch shell start became legend, before the documentaries and global fame, one man proved the Barkley Marathons could be finished.Frozen Ed was the first person to ever finish the Barkley. Not the 100-miler. The original three-loop race that no one thought was possible.In this episode we talk about:– What Barkley was really like in the 80s– The story of Tom Possert and the missed summit– How the book pages became part of the race– When the 100-mile version was born– The Soviet invasion year– The prison apprehension story– How the course has evolved and gotten harder– Why Laz says he's not trying to make it the toughest race in the world– The real energy cost of Barkley– And why endurance athletes need to protect their heartsThis is a history lesson, a philosophy lesson, and a reminder that Barkley has always lived at the limit of what's possible.If you love the mystique of Barkley, this is required listening.Support our Sponsors: Sawyer: https://sawyerdirect.net/Janji (code: Freeoutside): https://snp.link/a0bfb726CS Coffee: CSinstant.coffeeGarage Grown Gear: https://snp.link/db1ba8abSubscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.comSupport this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutsideBuy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSFEmail me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.comWatch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outsideWebsite: www.Freeoutside.comInstagram: thefreeoutsidefacebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside#Trailrunning #Runningnews #Outdoors #Outdooradventure

The Barkley Marathons is designed to sit right on the edge of possible. Sixty hours. Five loops. Nearly all off trail. No GPS. No course markings. Books hidden in the woods. A cigarette lights the start.In 2021, I stepped onto the course and heard Taps play when my race ended. In 2026, I'm lining up again.In this episode, I break down what Barkley actually is, how it started under at Brushy Mountain, why it keeps getting harder, and what makes it different from every other 100 miler on the planet. We talk navigation, the fun run, the infamous virgin sacrifice, the conch shell, the secretive entry process, and why even legends like John Kelly can get stopped at three loops.But more than that, this is about why anyone would go back.Barkley is not about speed. It is not about splits. It is about finding your limit in a world where almost nothing forces you to.And in 2026, I'm going to try again.Chapters00:00 The Origins of the Barkley Marathons02:51 The Challenge and Difficulty of the Race05:47 The Unique Entry Process and Race Structure08:50 Navigating the Course: Skills and Strategies12:09 Mental Toughness and the Experience of Running15:04 The Community and Culture of the Barkley Marathons18:11 Inspiration and the Future of the Barkley MarathonsSupport our Sponsors: Sawyer: https://sawyerdirect.net/Janji (code: Freeoutside): https://snp.link/a0bfb726CS Coffee: CSinstant.coffeeGarage Grown Gear: https://snp.link/db1ba8abSubscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.comSupport this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutsideBuy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSFEmail me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.comWatch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outsideWebsite: www.Freeoutside.comInstagram: thefreeoutsidefacebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside#Trailrunning #Runningnews #Outdoors #Outdooradventure

Send us a textI'm really excited to bring you this episode's guest. When I began ultramarathoning several decades ago, the only way I could learn about races and people in that space was through a black-and-white magazine delivered to my mailbox called Ultrarunning. It had pages and pages of mundane rows of race results that still held fascination for me. Plus stories about races in exotic-sounding places like Auburn, Calif. and where I first heard about this crazy race called the Barkley Marathons that at that time no one had ever finished, and long before Netflix, no one else but me and a few others had heard of. I also read about people who became my first idols in the sport like Marshall Ulrich and Roy Pirrung, who I've had the great honor to chat with both on this podcast and in-person. But one who absolutely left me in awe who I never got to meet was Ann Trason, who I got to see – briefly – when she zoomed past me on Hope Pass in the Leadville Trail 100 in the 90s. Ann won the Western States 100 a mind-boggling 14 times, twice less than two weeks after winning the Comrades Marathon in South Africa. Western States is considered the most prestigious 100-miler in the US, and Ann, who in 1994 set a course record of 17:37:51, now lives close to the 99-mile mark of the course. Comrades is the oldest ultramarathon in the world, having begun right after WW1, and is roughly 55 miles, and is so esteemed that the entire country basically shuts down to watch it. Very few Americans have ever won it. Ann set the Leadville course record of 18:06:24 in 1994 that was only broken this past year by Anne Flower. She finished second, not just among women, but overall. In 1996, she not only completed the Grand Slam of 100-milers – Western States, Leadville, Vermont, and Wasatch Front – but she won them all. Ann set 20 world records, including for 50 miles in 5:40:18 and 100K in 7:00:47. All the way back in 1987, Ann became a Nike-sponsored athlete when women's sports hadn't taken hold like they have today, and ultramarathoning hadn't achieved any of the attention and popularity it now has. Ann retired from ultramarathoning in the 2000s due to injuries and the onset of rheumatoid arthritis, which has ravaged her body. As a result of her many accomplishments, as well as her continuing contributions to the sport as a race director, coach, writer, supporter, and much more, she was inducted into the Ultrarunning Hall of Fame in 2020. After a long time out of the spotlight, Ann arrived at an Arizona race called Across the Years, which begins three days before New Year's and finishes three days after it, just wanting to engage with the ultrarunning community in her joyous way, and push her walker – with all of its lights and decorations – for some laps around the 1.41-mile looped course. I have spoken with several people who told me how delighted they were to get to chat with Ann out there, and in the end, one of the event's highlights was when she completed 100 miles and earned a buckle – all while pushing that walker. With such a long, colorful career, you can imagine that Ann and I cover a lot of ground in this very fun chat, including her talking with Nelson Mandela after she won Comrades, swapping hats with the Jester, the Grateful Dead, being vegetarian and a race director, including the best way to make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches at races, long-lost Nike shoe models, the fun of reading that old Ultrarunning magazine, her inspirations in the sport and those who have followed her, her relationship with her parents, and about the joy and gratitude she has for life and the running community.Ann TrasonInstagram @ann_trasonBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastSubscribe to the We Are Superman

If you've ever wondered how the running industry shapes the gear ultrarunners depend on, this episode explores why paying attention to the business behind the sport actually matters.Paul Mellor, founder of creative agency Mellor&Smith and producer working on a new documentary about Barkley Marathons creator Lazarus Lake, joins Josh to unpack how outdoor brands compete for attention, why Nike's return to trail running feels different this time, and what separates unforgettable running brands from those that quietly fade away.For trail and ultrarunners curious about how the running industry influences the gear, culture, and future of the sport.Please give us a follow, rate the podcast, and give a review.Presented by Kiprun.----Find us at Borderlands.cc and sign up for the newsletter.Want to run in the Salt Lake area? Check out the Salt Lake Foothills Trail Races happening May 30, 2026.And if you haven't checked out Wylder yet, it's worth a look. iOS or Android

Hour 4 wraps the day with money news, sports outrage, and binge-worthy TV. Gary and Shannon react to the Federal Reserve holding interest rates steady, revisit the Bill Belichick Hall of Fame snub, and break down a Super Bowl logo conspiracy before turning to #WhatchaWatchinWednesday and listener recommendations.• Fed Watch: Interest rates stay put—with Gary delivering the update in his own unique style.• Global Health Watch: A new virus raises concerns in India.• Belichickgate: The Hall of Fame snub and a Super Bowl logo conspiracy explained.• #WhatchaWatchinWednesday: Ted Lasso buzz, The Barkley Marathon, and listener binges.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gary And Shannon talk Ted Lasso buzz, The Barkley Marathon, and listener binges!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week the boys talk Disney Luxury, The Titanics PR snafu, The craziest Marathon in the country, and Trae answers the Inside The Actors Studio questionnaire!   TraeCrowder.com   CoreyWritesForYou.com   BlueChew.com Promo Code POA   LiveMomentous.com Promo Code POA   Betterwild.com/POA

Ultra running is professionalizing fast. Bigger prize money, more sponsors, and smoother finishes. Laz Lake is the counterbalance to all of it, and this conversation is about why that matters.In part two of this trilogy at Laz's Tennessee farm, the two go deep on what makes Laz unlike anyone else in the sport: untouched by modernization, unbothered by fame, charging $1.60 for race entry while the rest of the industry chases scale. Josh draws a line from Popcorn Sutton, the last Tennessee moonshiner, to the Donner Party, to Bigs Backyard Ultra, and somewhere in the middle of all of it, a portrait of Laz emerges that you won't find anywhere else.This one's for the ultra runners who love the underground soul of this sport and don't want to see it disappear.Presented by Kiprun.----Listen to Scene One (the Races of Laz Lake) on Spotify or Apple or watch on YouTube.----Borderlands.cc | Podcast NetworkSign up: analog*Borderlands [new]letterWylder is now available on iOS + Android.Salt Lake Foothills Trail Races | 30 May 2026

Today we catch up with data scientist and ultra runner John Kelly. We discuss his background, his analytical approach to endurance sports, and his experiences competing in iconic races like the Barkley Marathons. He explains how his professional background in data science allows him to break down complex logistical challenges into manageable components, providing a critical mental edge during grueling multi-day events. John also reflects on his time living in the United Kingdom, where he embraced the community-driven culture of running and honed his skills on technical terrain. He also shares his perspective on the future of the sport, suggesting that while technology and AI will assist in training, the core of ultra-running will always be driven by personal passion and adventure. Heck, we even talk about baseball!Follow John on Instagram @randomforestrunnerVisit his website and blog at: https://randomforestrunner.com/For amazing trail visors head to: https://keapeak.com/Support the showSubscribe to Running Scared Media wherever you get your podcasts for more episodes! RunningScaredMedia.comVisit our shop to purchase our jogcasts and other merchEmail us at: therunningscaredpodcast@gmail.comFollow us:Instagram @runningscaredmediaJoin our FB Running Group

In this Short Suck, we head into the brutal hills around Tennessee's old Brushy Mountain prison to explore the Barkley Marathons— the nearly-impossible 100-mile ultramarathon. And we'll meet Lazarus Lake, the cigarette-lighting, Dr Pepper-drinking madman who designed a race meant to break people, complete with secret applications, sadistic course changes, and “human sacrifices” who have almost no chance of finishing. For Merch and everything else Bad Magic related, head to: https://www.badmagicproductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts.Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings SubStack⁠⁠Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods.Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy's Coaching PageSTOKED TO PARTNER WITH  JANJI HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCEBEAR BUTT WIPES USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNTTRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/"Sometimes you just do something that feels dumb, and then later you're like, ‘That actually kind of ruled."In this episode of the MidPacker Pod, Troy is joined by Miranda Williamson—trail runner and co-host of the Running with Problems podcast. Miranda shares her grounded, often hilarious journey into trail and ultra-running, one that started with a birthday 10K and evolved into crewing Barkley, pacing Dark Divide, and accidentally negative-splitting her first 100-miler at High Lonesome.From running her first trail race in road shoes from TJ Maxx to completing the San Juan Solstice 50-miler twice, Miranda brings self-awareness and good vibes to the trail scene. She unpacks her experience on the Hardrock 100 course during “Soft Rock,” discusses the emotional chaos of crewing Barkley, and opens up about the vulnerable, sometimes risky conversations she and co-host John Eisen tackle on their podcast, Running with Problems.Miranda's LinksIG - @peaksandjusticeRunning with Problems Podcast In This Episode:Miranda's first trail race with zero prep or gearHer back-to-back finishes at San Juan SolsticeAccidentally negative-splitting her first 100-miler (High Lonesome!)Crewing her husband Jon at Barkley Starting Running with Problems and making space for real talkBuilding a community of women that love to do hard things Relevant Links:San Juan Solstice 50Soft Rock (Hardrock Route)High Lonesome 100Dark Divide 100milerBarkley MarathonsPartner Links: Janji - Janji.comA big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com.Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order.Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.comMade by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete.More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles.Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.comUse the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order.“The Kid” Hans Troyer DocumentaryTraining Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.comPortable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean.Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.comUse the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order.⁠Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!!Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's.⁠Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today.Miranda Williamson, Running with Problems, High Lonesome 100, San Juan Solstice, Soft Rock, Har Rock, Barkley Marathons, trail running, crewing, pacing, Dark Divide, ultrarunning, running podcast, midpack

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts.Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings SubStack⁠⁠Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods.Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy's Coaching PageSTOKED TO PARTNER WITH  JANJI HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCEBEAR BUTT WIPES USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNTTRAINING PEAKS⁠ BLACK FRIDAY SALE 25% off Premium!!!! Use CYBER25 at Checkout using the link below start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker“Running became my way to process grief, build community, and explore the edges of what's possible.”In this episode, Jon Eisen joins Troy Meadows to unpack a journey that goes far beyond miles. Jon's career in tech didn't prepare him for the kind of grit and self‑discovery he found on the trails, especially when he set his sights on the infamous Barkley Marathons. On the way he picked up ultra finishes at events like Niwot's Challenge and the Yucca Bar Massacre, embraced navigation‑heavy racing, and turned running into a tool for resilience and community.Highlights:How Jon went from programming to pursing ultra adventures—with little thought for convention.What draws him to Barkley‑style races: the unknown, the navigational challenge, the refusal to accept a “normal” race.Key training takeaways: establishing strength, avoiding injury through smart prep, embracing weekly yoga and strength work (yes, even for ultra runners).Motivational nuggets: How showing up matters more than finishing; how joy in running can exist alongside the grind; why community and purpose matter just as much as pace.Practical tips: For runners looking to level up in 2025—whether you're chasing 50 miles or chasing meaning—you'll hear what made the difference for Jon.Jon's  links:IG: @mildly_athleticIG: @runningwithproblems“Running With Problems” podcast infoJon's race archive & blogJon's Barkley 2023 race reportBarkley Marathons background infoPartner Links: Janji - Janji.comA big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com.Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order.Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.comMade by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete.More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles.Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.comUse the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order.“The Kid” Hans Troyer DocumentaryTraining Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.comPortable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean.Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.comUse the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order.⁠Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!!Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's.⁠Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today.ultrarunning, Barkley Marathons, Niwot's Challenge, San Diego 100, navigation race, trail running, strength training, injury prevention, community running, “running with problems”, perseverance

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts.Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings SubStack⁠⁠Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods.Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy's Coaching PageSTOKED TO PARTNER WITH  JANJI HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCEBEAR BUTT WIPES USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNTTRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/“Failure means you found your edge—that's where you learn.”In this episode, Troy sits down with the one and only Gary Cantrell, better known to the trail world as Lazarus Lake. From humble beginnings in Tennessee to building the most notorious events in ultrarunning, Laz has done more than just push limits—he's redefined them.What you'll hear in this episode:How Laz went from a casual runner to the creator of iconic ultras like the Barkley Marathons and Big's Backyard Ultra.The origin story of Barkley and the infamous map, highlighters, and those cryptic course notes.Why he believes failure is a feature—not a flaw—of a well-designed race.Thoughts on what makes someone endure, when everyone else taps out.His philosophy on community, suffering, and why the human spirit shines brightest in darkness.The ethos behind races that break you down, only to build you back stronger.Whether you're a back-of-the-pack grinder or chasing podiums, Laz's words will hit home. His belief that every runner has untapped reserves of toughness is as brutal as it is uplifting.Relevant Links:The Barkley Marathons – Official SiteBig's Backyard UltraFrozen Head State Park (Barkley's Home)The Endurance Artist – Book on Lazarus LakePartner Links: Janji - Janji.comA big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com.Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order.Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.comMade by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete.More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles.Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.comUse the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order.“The Kid” Hans Troyer DocumentaryTraining Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.comPortable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean.Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.comUse the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order.⁠Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!!Use code: MIDPACKER to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's.⁠Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today.ultrarunning, Barkley Marathons, Big's Backyard Ultra, Lazarus Lake, Gary Cantrell, endurance, trail running, failure, mental toughness, race design, Tennessee, Frozen Head, grit, perseverance