Podcasts about sidas

Send us Fan MailA hip that might not cooperate. A course that's basically a slip-and-slide. A start line you're not even sure you'll stand on. Then somehow… you find yourself racing at the front anyway. That's the headspace Allie Mack brings us into right after earning another Team USA spot with a hard-fought third place at a gnarly mountain running qualifier. It's her eighth team since 2014, and she explains why it somehow feels more special now than it did early on, especially as the U.S. trail running and mountain running depth keeps getting stronger. We walk through how the race actually unfolded: the calm choice to run “within herself,” the reality of technical mud and rocks where speed is capped by footing, and the tactical moments where you decide whether to chase a move or protect the result. Allie also opens up about the mental whiplash of being a high-level athlete: expectations after winning a world title, the pressure you can put on yourself, and the way one good day can reset your whole season. From there we look ahead to Broken Arrow and the Vertical Kilometer style battle she loves, plus the idea of Team USA chemistry and how bonding and shared experience can matter when you're heading to the World Mountain Running Championships. We close with a real look at support systems, including what it meant to have her fiancé Dylan there when the weekend could have gone the other way. If you're into trail running, mountain racing strategy, injury decision-making, and the mindset it takes to keep showing up year after year, hit play. Then subscribe, share this with a running friend, and leave a review so more people can find the show.Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailWinning world titles is hard. Getting told you are “fine” for 18 months while your body is clearly breaking down might be harder. We sit down with Grayson Murphy to talk through the parts of elite mountain running that rarely get said out loud: identity, sponsorship pressure, health uncertainty, and the behind-the-scenes work it takes to keep showing up.Grayson opens up about her Crohn's disease diagnosis and the long, frustrating path to getting answers, including how repeated dismissal can wreck an athlete's ability to trust their own body signals. We also dig into what changed once treatment started working, why volume and lower intensity made more sense during recovery, and how shifting to short trail and 50K racing created a lower-pressure space to learn again.Then we go straight at the athlete versus influencer debate. Grayson explains how trail running sponsorships are evolving, why engagement metrics can punish even the best performers, and how she now avoids partnerships built around algorithm-driven reach. We also talk entrepreneurship through her Wild Strides Paper Co planners and training logs, sustainability consulting work that pushes back on greenwashing, and her hot takes on Olympic trail running, pay-to-race pro expectations, and anti-doping reality in the sport.If you care about trail running, mountain running, Golden Trail style racing, athlete marketing, or health advocacy for endurance athletes, this conversation will stick with you. Subscribe, share it with a friend who loves the sport, and leave a review, what topic should we go deeper on next?Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailUTMB week brings out the most honest kind of sports conversation: we have a stacked start list, a million storylines, and almost no certainty once the race hits the high climbs and the long night. Nick Tusa joins me for a focused UTMB and CCC preview where we argue through the men's and women's fields, call our shots, and explain what we think actually decides Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc when everyone is fit.On the men's side, we dig into the big questions around Jim Walmsley and Kilian Jornet lining up after Western States DNFs and why UTMB is a totally different test with more hiking, longer climbs, and way less room for error. We talk about Caleb Olsen's upside as a mountain athlete, John Alban's winning profile, and why names like Josh Wade, Hannes Namberger, Zach Miller, and Theodore Diente sit right on that edge between a career day and a hard blow-up. Then we make a clear call on who we think wins, including the case for Ben Diemon and the mental side of “closing” when the podium is in reach.On the women's side, it turns into one of the best matchups in trail running: Ruth Croft returning as defending UTMB champion against Courtney Dauwalter, who is always capable of rewriting what we think is possible. We also hit the depth behind them with Marianne Hogan, Abby Hall, Rachel Drake, and more, plus the wild card factor of limited UTMB experience across parts of the field.We wrap with a CCC preview full of redemption and breakthrough potential, including why certain runners look ready to finally get over the hump. If you love UTMB predictions, ultrarunning strategy, and smart race coverage, hit subscribe, share this with your trail crew, and leave a rating and review so more people find the show.Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailChamonix does something to your brain. You land, look up at the peaks, and suddenly every run feels like it should be longer, harder, and higher. We sit down with Noah Williams to talk through the reality of preparing for OCC when the terrain is unreal, the field is stacked, and the smartest move might be holding back even when your legs feel electric.We get into the nuts and bolts of mountain running performance: adapting from Leadville altitude to lower-oxygen-cost running, why that “superhuman” feeling can still destroy your quads, and how Noah thinks about controlled downhill stimulus to build durability without blowing up the taper. He also opens up about a rough Sierra-Zinal day, what he learned from it, and the lifestyle shifts that are improving recovery in a measurable way, including better sleep quality and HRV.From there, we zoom out to race craft and expectations. Noah breaks down how he approaches deep fields like OCC: staying within himself for the first 20 to 25K, taking stock mid-race, then turning it into a real fight over the final kilometers. We also talk course recon choices, realistic goals like a top-10 finish, and why the sport's growth and sponsorship money can be a good thing if we protect what makes trail running special.If you're training for OCC, UTMB week races, or any mountain marathon style ultra, this one is packed with practical strategy, recovery lessons, and honest perspective. Subscribe, share this with a trail friend, and leave a rating and review so we can keep bringing you these conversations. What part of taper week do you struggle with most?Follow Noah on OG - @nowawillUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailSierre Zinal doesn't hand out gifts, and neither does a season that starts with a stress reaction, rolls into a posterior tib strain, and then keeps whispering from an irritated Achilles. We sit down with Christian Allen fresh off a huge European stretch to talk about what finally clicked, how he stayed consistent enough to stack results, and why his best racing shows up when he resists the urge to force the day early.We get specific about the realities of pro trail running training: when to shut things down, when to lean on cross training to keep your engine, and how you decide whether pain is “manageable” or a warning siren. Christian shares how he navigates limited certainty without perfect health insurance, why trusted PT support matters, and what a hydrodisection injection did and did not change. If you care about injury prevention, Achilles tendinopathy management, or smart return to running, there are plenty of practical takeaways here.Then we pivot to OCC at UTMB week. Christian explains why OCC feels like one of the sport's most meaningful sub ultra wins, how he thinks about pacing a now longer 60K distance, and why “run your own race” is harder than it sounds when the front of the field lights up from the gun. We also talk Golden Trail World Series selection, the balance between road speed and trail skill, and his longer arc toward Olympic Trials marathon goals before stepping up to 100 mile racing.If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe, share it with a trail running friend, and leave a rating and review so we can keep telling these athlete stories.Follow Slim on IG - @slimtherunnerUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailUTMB week has a way of making trail running feel bigger than sport. The streets of Chamonix fill up, legends stroll past like it's normal, and suddenly a 60K like OCC feels like the center of the universe. We're back with Nick Tusa to break down why this year's OCC field looks so deep, how the course changes keep reshaping the short trail world, and why tactics matter as much as fitness when everyone's fast.We dig into the men's side with a real focus on decision-making: who can stay patient, who risks detonating early, and why “letting guys go” might be the difference between a podium and a long walk home. We talk veterans with course reps, skyrunning talent jumping in, and the Americans we're most curious about when the pace goes nuclear. Then we pivot to the women's race, where one question hangs over everything: how do you beat someone who doesn't crack? We lay out what it would take to pressure Tove Alexandersson, who has the downhill and durability to try it, and why Lauren Gregory vs the field could turn into a defining moment.After OCC, we zoom out to UTMB and CCC for the biggest storylines of the week: Jim and Kilian after Western States DNFs, Ben Dhiman's closing problem, and the women's title fight with Ruth Croft and Courtney Dauwalter. If you're building fantasy picks, planning your livestream schedule, or just want sharper context before the starts, this one is for you. Subscribe, share this with a UTMB-obsessed friend, and leave a quick rating and review if the show helps you follow the racing.Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailMont Blanc in the background has a way of rewriting your definition of “normal.” We're checking in with Taylor Stack from Chamonix as UTMB week starts to buzz, and he shares what it feels like to train in a place where even the “easy” routes quietly stack thousands of feet of vertical gain.We talk about the practical reality of Alpine trail running versus Colorado mountain running: bigger relief from a lower start, fewer truly flat miles, and terrain that can surprise you even when the map looks friendly. Taylor also gets into the mental side of being in a legendary venue, the temptation to over-explore, and how he's trying to stay disciplined with a big effort coming up.Then we zoom in on ETC and why racing early in the week is such a gift. Taylor explains how he plans to use the rest of UTMB week to spectate OCC, CCC, and UTMB, and why watching the gear logistics, nutrition, and crewing up close can be the best prep if you want to race OCC next year. We also hit course recon, what elevation profiles miss, the joy of French food on a runner's budget, and what it's like to be just recognizable enough to get stopped for a photo while still holding onto that underdog mindset.If you're training for a mountain race, dreaming of UTMB Chamonix, or curious about ETC, press play, then subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a quick rating and review so we can keep telling these stories.Follow Taylor on IG - @stack_taylorUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailA 15K can feel longer than a 100K when the course is straight up, straight down, and the field is absolutely loaded. We're fired up for ETC in Courmayeur during UTMB week, and we're treating it like what it's becoming: a legitimate proving ground for mountain running specialists who live for steep climbs, fast singletrack, and fearless descents.We dig into what makes ETC unique, starting with the course math that matters: 15K with roughly 1200 meters of gain, a big first climb, a dip, a second push to the high point, then a demanding downhill where pacing mistakes show up fast. We also talk about why this race sits at a fascinating intersection of the Golden Trail Series, the European championships scene, and the UTMB week spotlight. With OCC now stretching to a harder 60K, athletes have to choose their battles, and we debate how racing blocks like Pitz Alpine plus Sierre-Zinal can either sharpen you or leave you flat.Then we make picks. On the women's side, we break down the contenders and why an athlete like Courtney Coppinger has the tools to take the win, plus we look at how the American crew could surprise. On the men's side, we lay out the matchups, the skyrunning wild cards, and why Taylor Stack feels like a true “guy to beat” pick if he gets his day. We also sneak in a few OCC predictions, including excitement around Lauren Gregory and Christian Allen.If you like smart race previews, mountain running strategy, and honest takes on what actually wins these courses, subscribe, share this with a trail friend, and leave us a rating and review. What's your podium prediction for ETC?Follow Rachel on IG - @rachrunsworldUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailA hamstring injury doesn't just take away fitness. It can mess with your confidence, your decision-making, and even your ability to trust basic sensations like a cramp. Sam Lewis joins us from the Chamonix area to talk about the messy middle of a comeback, right after a hard Sierre-Zinal and just before lining up for ETC near Courmayeur.We get into what it's like to train in the Alps without getting carried away, why UTMB week in Chamonix feels like a mini home for so many trail runners, and how Sam is approaching a short, fast mountain race as a way to reconnect with her roots. She also shares a meaningful shift in her week: pacing an OCC para athlete through Born To Adapt, and what it means to show up as support instead of chasing your own result.Then we go deep on her PhD in philosophy of sport and sport ethics at the University of Idaho. Sam breaks down research on moral reasoning in sport, why win-at-all-costs culture can make people worse at ethical decision-making over time, and how coaches can actively teach better values through reflection and lived-experience focused tools. If you care about trail running culture, coaching, athlete development, and what we sacrifice to win, this one hits hard.If you enjoyed it, subscribe or follow, share the episode with a friend headed to UTMB week, and leave a rating and review so we can keep telling these stories.Follow Sam on IG - (@samkeliiahonui)Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailChamonix has a way of making trail running feel like the center of the universe, and Sydney Peterson is soaking it up while she can. After stacking a string of brutally competitive European races, she joins me for a catch-up from the Alps where recovery, team time, and UTMB week energy all collide. We talk about what it's like to live among people who treat mountains like a daily ritual, from running vests at the grocery store to the quiet confidence that comes from being surrounded by athletes chasing big days outside.Sydney breaks down what's happening at Brooks trail camp, why UTMB recon is such a powerful advantage, and how scouting now can set up future goals like Marathon du Mont Blanc or an OCC debut. We also get into ETC and why it's such a smart way to experience the UTMB scene: you race early, then you get the rest of the week to cheer, crew, and actually enjoy the spectacle without carrying race-week nerves the whole time.The deeper thread is how she's building her season on purpose. Sydney explains why she's choosing courses that attack her weak points, especially technical downhill running and the mental intensity of deep fields. Then we look ahead to the Golden Trail Series final in South Korea, a course she describes with a “healthy amount of scared” and a lot of excitement to learn. We close with an incredible story about trail legend Stevie Kremer and how mentorship can shape not just results, but an entire career. If you enjoy the conversation, subscribe, share it with a trail friend, and leave a rating and review so we can keep telling these stories.Follow Sydney Petersen on IG - @sydneypetersen33Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailA race where the “course” is more like a suggestion sounds fun right up until you're waist-deep in a peat bog, freezing, and trying to decide which ridge will get you to the next checkpoint fastest. That's the world of UK fell running, and Finlay Grant joins us to explain why it creates a uniquely durable kind of mountain athlete. We talk about Finlay's path from school cross-country into fell running, then onto the European skyrunning scene, including his build toward ETC and the longer skyraces on his calendar. He breaks down what training looks like when most of your runs are already technical and steep: elevation-heavy weeks for leg durability, three to four hard sessions when he's sharpening up, and just enough faster running to keep speed online without living on the track. Finlay also tells the story of racing well in broken shoes held together with duct tape and how that moment helped open the door to working with Scarpa. Along the way, we compare the grassroots culture of fell races to the big production feel of modern trail events, and we get into the real logistics of balancing work shifts with travel, recovery, and racing ambitions. If you're into trail running, skyrunning, mountain running, or you're simply curious about route choice racing and the toughest terrain traditions in the UK, this one will expand your view of what “technical” can mean. Subscribe or follow, share the episode with a mountain-running friend, and leave a rating and review so we can keep telling these stories.Follow Finlay on IG - @fingrant456Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailA 3:05 at Sierre-Zinal and a Mont Blanc Marathon 23K podium is the kind of season that usually comes with “full-time pro” stamped on it. Kirsty Sky Dixon is doing it while working full-time as an orthodontist in Scotland, and the way she thinks about that balance might change how you approach your own training and goals. We talk through what Sierre-Zinal felt like on her first attempt, why the course is so addictive, and how the race exposes both strengths and weaknesses, especially when you're a pure climber who wants to level up on technical descents. Kirsty shares what she noticed about the heat, the atmosphere, and the little details that matter when the times are historic and you're racing the mountain as much as the field. From there, we get into the practical side: training for big vertical when you don't have endless alpine climbs outside your door. Her setup is surprisingly simple, built around Arthur's Seat, commuting runs to the train, weekend adventures in the hills, and the accountability of guidance from mountain running legend Angela Mudge. We also dig into the UK hill running and fell running culture, why Edinburgh is such a strong hub, and how Great Britain team trials work when selection is tight and timing is tricky with a clinical schedule. One note: we hit technical difficulties and lost the final portion of the conversation, so the recording ends abruptly. If you enjoy this one, subscribe, share it with a friend who's juggling big goals, and leave a quick rating and review so we can keep bringing these stories to the trail running community.Follow Kirsty on IG - @kirstyskyedicksonUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailThe mountain running GOAT label sounds shiny until you hear what it demands day after day. Joseph Gray joins us for a wide-ranging, no-fluff talk about winning at the highest level, staying motivated deep into a long career, and how he handles the pressure of being someone other athletes look up to.We dig into why sub-ultra trail racing often gets overlooked in the US compared to ultrarunning, even when the performances are absolutely world-class. Joseph breaks down the economics of attention, how “more hours” creates more marketable drama, and why short mountain races are a different kind of suffering where you cannot hide from pace, tactics, or mistakes. He also talks candidly about media blind spots, race storytelling, and what it means when the best athletes are not the ones getting covered.Then we go where most people avoid: anti-doping in trail running. Joseph explains out-of-competition testing pools, why untested events can warp opportunity, and why programs like Quartz can create the appearance of safety without real protection. We also get practical with training for uphill running, including progressive efforts and building an aerobic engine that sustains power on steep terrain, plus the youth work he is proudest of through the Colorado Springs trail running camp for kids and Project Inspired Diversity.If this conversation hits home, subscribe, share it with a friend who loves steep trails, and leave a five-star rating and review so more people find the show.Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailOne decision on Everest can erase years of work, and Tyler Andrews knows that better than most. After six failed summit pushes and three straight Everest seasons, he finally threads the needle and sets a blistering speed record, then comes home to the weirdest part of any big win: the emotional comedown and the sudden question of “now what?” We talk about what it's like to chase a far-out goal for years, hit it on the last possible day, and then step straight into a new level of attention that reaches far beyond the trail running world. Tyler breaks down why Mount Everest isn't a simple fitness contest. The jet stream shrinks the summit window, crowds turn the route into a bottleneck, and the Khumbu Icefall remains a moving hazard that never really feels routine. We get into the real logistics of a speed attempt: waiting for the right weather, positioning for the end-of-season window, and staying ready when so much is outside your control. Tyler also shares how mentors and time in Nepal helped him build the mountain skills he didn't grow up with, and what he's learned about the culture clash between traditional mountaineering and modern endurance-driven approaches. We also tackle the oxygen vs no oxygen controversy head-on. Tyler explains his original plan, the exact moment safety and wind forced the pivot, and why he thinks both categories are valid but fundamentally different. From there, the conversation goes deep into the performance details that sound like ultrarunning at 29,000 feet: camps as aid stations, fast transitions, fueling around 400 calories per hour with gels and drink mix, and heart rate data that still doesn't fully make sense. We wrap with his hypoxic training setup, blood testing, whether he'll return via the north side, and a quick detour into the Mount Elbert FKT that never got submitted. If you want more Everest speed record detail, altitude acclimatization tactics, and the mindset behind endurance mountain performance, hit subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a rating and review. What part of Tyler's approach surprised you most?Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailUse code "Steepstuff" for 20% off your cart at sidas.us Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailA “clean” MRI can still leave you limping, doubting yourself, and stuck in the worst kind of uncertainty: pain without answers. James sits down with Abby Bennett for a candid, detailed update on her long road to a hip labral repair and what she wishes she knew from day one.Abby unpacks how her injury started as a weird, persistent fatigue in one leg, then escalated into deep hip pain that spread through her glute, adductors, and hamstring as her body tried to stabilize an unstable joint. We dig into why her first 1.5T MRI missed the problem, how a hip preservation specialist used better imaging and a full workup to identify labral instability plus pincer impingement, and what her surgery included: labral anchors, shaving the impingement to prevent re-tearing, and a psoas tendon lengthening that changes the rehab timeline for athletes who live in hip flexion.We also go beyond anatomy and talk about the mental weight of chronic pain, identity loss when training disappears, and the small wins that bring you back: conservative PT, pool work, short Zwift spins, strict boundaries to avoid flare-ups, and recovery basics like hitting protein goals and using collagen with vitamin C before rehab. If you're a runner, trail runner, cyclist, or skimo athlete dealing with stubborn hip pain, this is a practical guide to advocating for the right care.Subscribe or follow, share this with a training partner who's struggling, and leave a rating and review so we can keep telling more athlete stories like Abby's.Follow Abby on IG - @abby.j.bennettUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailThey just landed in Seattle, they've barely had time to shake out their legs, and they're already thinking about one thing: how a U.S. sky race will feel compared to the European skyrunning circuit. We sit down with Daniel Daniel Antonioli & Beñat Albisu for a quick, high-energy pre-race conversation as they get ready to race near Big Creek in the Olympic Mountains for the first time on American soil. We talk travel realities and first impressions of the Pacific Northwest, plus where they're hoping to sneak in a little exploring with only a week in town. Then we get into racing: what it's like to line up against a strong international field, and why an out-and-back skyrace course can create a different kind of pressure and excitement when you're literally watching competitors coming toward you on the climb. Daniel shares why he loves the simple rhythm of one big ascent and one committed descent, and Banat reflects on what it means to race abroad as a 20-year-old following the U23 skyrunning circuit. We also zoom out to season planning, including how athletes choose between major mountain running events when schedules collide, and why ultra-technical courses like Matterhorn Ultraks Extreme can shape training priorities. If you're into trail running, skyrunning, mountain racing tactics, and the culture that makes these races special from Italy to the Basque Country, you'll leave with fresh motivation and a clearer sense of how pros think before the gun goes off. Subscribe or follow, share this with a trail friend, and leave a rating and review if you want more athlete stories and race coverage.Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailA fast sky race can look simple on paper until you add singletrack bottlenecks, an out-and-back with traffic, and a technical finish that punishes sloppy footwork. We sit down with Canadian trail runner Josh Potvin for a quick, focused catch-up before Beast Of Big Creek, starting with what training has looked like from Vancouver and why this has been one of his most consistent years ever.From there, Josh breaks down Quebec Mega Trail: the heat, the ruthless technical sections, and the mindset shift that lets you walk away proud when you execute well even if the placing wasn't the headline goal. We also talk about the Canadian team selection process for short trail, what it takes to put yourself in the conversation, and how results plus timing can shape your season.Then we shift to something new for Josh: joining the Merrell trail running team. He shares what surprised him about the team culture, how support matters when races go sideways, and which Merrell shoes he's been using for long runs, technical trail days, and faster efforts. We close with his Beast Of Big Creek strategy, why steep Pacific Northwest terrain is the perfect prep, plus a real-world look at 100K recovery and turning the legs around for the next block as he eyes Whistler UTMB and an OCC ticket.If you enjoy athlete stories, practical race prep, and honest talk about what actually works, subscribe, share this with a running friend, and leave a quick rating and review.Follow Josh on IG - @jjpotvinUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailA mountain race where the “trail” turns into a real cliff scramble, a town that treats race weekend like a holiday, and a new skyrace in Washington that might finally feel like Europe without the altitude excuse. We sit down with Jackson Cole fresh off Mount Marathon to unpack why Seward, Alaska draws thousands of fans, how the hype somehow matches reality, and what it feels like to go full gas to the summit in a truly competitive field. We also get specific about what makes Mount Marathon technical, including the cliff section where route choice and local knowledge matter, and where a mistake could mean more than a lost minute. From there we pivot to Beast of Big Creek and the Olympic Peninsula, digging into why steep, rooty Washington trails are such a strong skyrunning venue, and why starting closer to sea level can make the racing fairer for international athletes. If you care about mountain running, trail racing, and skyrunning course design, there's a lot here to sharpen how you think about terrain and competition. Finally, we talk about the unglamorous side of a stacked season: travel fatigue, quick turnarounds, and the mindset it takes to recover well and keep racing with joy. Jackson shares why he chooses races that genuinely light the fire, how he avoids burnout, and what he has lined up next with a training block and upcoming starts like Whistler 50k and The Rut. If you like the show, subscribe, share it with a running friend, and leave a rating and review so we can keep telling these stories.Follow Jackson on IG - @jayrcoleeUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailA technical FKT at home can be more than a big day out. For Kalie McCrystal, it's a proving ground for the skills that matter when the terrain gets steep, exposed, and unforgiving, and a stepping stone toward bigger goals like the Matterhorn speed record.We talk through her Tantalus Traverse FKT in the Tantalus Range across from Squamish, BC, a bucket-list alpine line that mixes runnable trail with moraines, snowfields, glaciers, route finding, and a crux that often includes multiple rappels. Kallie shares what “safe and fast” actually looks like on big mountain terrain: choosing the right weather window, deciding whether to rope up, and carrying just enough gear to manage risk while still moving efficiently. We also get honest about the unglamorous stuff that decides the day, like under-eating, bonking late, and planning water stops when there's no resupply.From there, we shift into racing and why a skyrunning course can feel simpler than an FKT: fewer moving parts, less navigation, and more room to truly test fitness. Kallie previews Beast of Big Creek, talks about the joy of racing with friends, and lays out what's ahead in Europe, including Trofeo Kima and an ambitious push to bring women's times closer to men's on iconic technical records. If you care about alpine running, technical scrambling, mountain race strategy, and the next wave of women pushing the ceiling in the sport, this one's for you.Subscribe or follow the show, share this with a mountain friend, and leave a rating and review so we can keep telling these stories.Follow Kalie on IG - @kalie_mccUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailThe fastest way to fall back in love with running might be to become a beginner again. Carmen Graves knows what it feels like to chase mastery: high school sprinter, college soccer and track standout, then a decade-long professional grind in the steeplechase that took her to US Trials. After years of the same build-ups and the same track-season patterns, she wanted something new, so she stepped onto the trails and embraced the discomfort of learning from scratch.We talk through what really changes when you go from track to trail running and skyrunning: pacing that's dictated by vertical gain, the mental focus of technical terrain, and the surprisingly hard skill of switching from hiking to running mid-climb. Carmen shares what she learned at the Broken Arrow Skyrace, why going out hot can wreck the final climbs, and how she's adjusting her training for Beast of Big Creek. We also get into her strengths so far, including speed on flatter trail courses, confidence on downhills, and the areas she's targeting most as she builds mountain-specific fitness.Carmen opens up about nutrition and why fueling has felt like a smooth transition, plus how small systems like gel flasks can make race day cleaner and simpler. She lays out a smart long-term plan too: sharpen in sub-ultra distances first, chase races like the Cirque Series and USATF Trail Championships, then move toward ultras when the foundation is solid. We also dive into what it's like joining the Merrell athlete team, her go-to shoes, and how mentorship from Andy Wacker helps guide a new chapter.If you're curious about transitioning from track and field to trail racing, training for vert, or rebuilding motivation after years of competing, this conversation is packed with honest lessons and practical takeaways. Subscribe, share this with a running friend, and leave a rating and review so we can keep telling these athlete stories.Follow Carmen on IG - @carmenpelarUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailA course can look “runnable” and still scare you a little. That's exactly why Beast of Big Creek is so intriguing, and why I brought back Mercedes Siegle-Gaither for a tight, honest pre-race chat. She'd just been on the route previewing and training, and her take is vivid: long stretches of shady forest on smooth trail, a relentless uphill grind, then a shift above treeline into steeper, rockier skyrunning terrain with wildflowers and big mountain energy on the Olympic Peninsula near Hoodsport.We also get real about the not-so-glam side of endurance sports: coming back from injury. Mercedes talks through finishing an earlier 100-miler while likely dealing with a pulled hamstring, the months-long recovery, and the mental whiplash of seeing old running segments and choosing to let them go for now. Add altitude back into the picture and the body gets humbled fast, but the mindset stays steady: stay calm, keep stacking work, and trust the rebuild.Gravel biking becomes the hero of the summer. We dig into why gravel cycling is such a smart cross-training tool for trail runners and ultrarunners, plus the practical fears that come with it, from cars to learning clipless pedals (including the classic slow-speed flop). We also touch on how fast Beast could be, what out-and-back passing might feel like on a narrow descent off Mount Ellinor, and what races she's lining up next as fitness returns.If you're into trail running, skyrunning, race previews, injury recovery, altitude training, and the Pacific Northwest mountain scene, this one will light you up. Subscribe or follow, share it with a friend training for a comeback, and leave a rating and review so we can keep telling these athlete stories.Follow Mercedes on IG - @theslimcedeUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailTwo weeks before a race, the glamor disappears and the real work shows up: shipping cutoffs, permit conversations, course marking decisions, and an inbox that never stops. We sit down with race director Mathias Eichler to talk about what it takes to bring Beast of Big Creek back and level it up as part of the Skyrunner World Series, without sanding off the personality that made it special in the first place.We get specific about the runner experience and the race director reality. Mathias breaks down how a family-run, community-driven trail running event can host international skyrunners, build a full weekend at camp, and still feel local through handmade details and creative choices. We also talk about the unsexy essentials that protect a race long-term: enough bathrooms, clear briefings, smart aid station planning, and communicating expectations across cultures and languages.Then we go deep on the hard constraints of mountain media and race logistics: drones in national forest boundaries, Starlink priorities for timing and search and rescue, tree cover that blocks coverage, and why livestreaming a short, technical skyrace often doesn't pencil out. If you care about skyrunning, trail race directing, responsible trail running, and how events grow without going cookie-cutter, this conversation is a clear look behind the curtain.Subscribe or follow the show, share this with a friend who loves mountain races, and leave a rating and review so we can keep telling these stories.Follow:Mathias Eichler - @mathiaseichlerThe Beast of Big Creek - @beastofbigcreekRock Candy Running - @rockcandyrunningRegister for a Rock Candy Running Event - @rockcandyrunningUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailA 5K with nearly 3,000 feet of gain, a choose-your-own-line climb, and a descent that's basically controlled chaos. Bayden Menton joins me right after a huge Mount Marathon performance to break down what it actually feels like to race one of the most iconic mountain running events in Seward, Alaska and why the smallest decisions on cliffs, scree, and in the gut can decide your day.We also rewind to where Bayden comes from: Joseph, Oregon, early cross-country roots, and a life built around mountains. He shares how Western Colorado University's trail running team shaped his development, why good coaching is often about communication and consistency, and how he tries to chase progression without burning out or turning running into a joyless checklist.Then we get into the Trailhouse, a new training-house project supported by Hyperlite, Wynn, and Lever, with coaching from Matt Daniels. Baden talks about the selection process, what day-to-day training looks like with housemates, and the part nobody warns you about: being on camera and navigating social media without letting it hijack your focus. We close with what's next, including the High Five 100, Kodiak 100K as a UTMB qualifier, and long-term dreams like Zegama and UTMB.If you enjoy deep race breakdowns and honest talk about building a sustainable trail running career, subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a rating and review.Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailYou can hear it right away: Sean McCauley isn't chasing trail running just for a result, he's chasing a life he actually wants to live. We talk through his origin story of starting to run at six to spend time with his dad in a military family, then falling hard for mountains, movement, and the quiet mental space that comes with long days outside. From early races to big dreams, Sean shares how running becomes both an outlet and a craft he's willing to fully commit to.That commitment gets tested. Sean opens up about a tough college start during COVID, mental health stress, and the moment he realizes he needs to get back to the mountains to thrive. We get into what Western Colorado University gave him as a developing athlete, why that program keeps producing top trail talent, and what changes when you step from track and cross country into modern trail racing. If you've ever struggled with imposter syndrome, injuries, or the feeling that you're “all in” while others see it as just a hobby, you'll recognize the highs and lows he describes.From there we go deep on the practical side of training for big mountain races: living in tiny Kremling, training with Eli and Tabor Hemming, learning effort-based pacing, planning long-term race strategy for goals like the UTMB OCC qualifier, and troubleshooting fueling and heat acclimation for Speedgoat 30K. Sean also shares what he learned at Broken Arrow Skyrace about positioning, staying engaged on runnable sections, and racing with confidence in stacked fields.If you're into trail running, ultrarunning, mountain racing, or endurance mindset, hit subscribe, share this with a training partner, and leave a rating and review so we can keep telling these stories. What part of Sean's approach are you trying to bring into your own running?Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailA sponsorship announcement is only interesting if it changes something real, and that's why we wanted to hit record with Alexa Aragon. Alexa is now officially part of Mammut and La Sportiva's athlete teams, and she's clear about what matters most: using brand support to expand outdoor access for her students through her adventure club. We talk about the early, tangible wins already showing up, from donated harnesses and gear to climbing shoes that help more kids try the sport without the usual cost barriers. We also get specific on the gear side for trail runners who love the details. Alexa shares what she's racing in, why the La Sportiva Prodigio Pro became her go-to, and what she actually carries on race day, including a belt setup for bottles, gels, keys, and quick stash space. If you're dialing your own trail running kit, this is the kind of practical breakdown that helps you streamline comfort, fueling, and efficiency. Then we zoom out to the season itself. Alexa has been racing a lot, learning fast, and feeling the reality of a “recover, race, recover, race” cycle that can crowd out real training. She tells a wild story about lining up at Quebec Mega Trail on three hours of sleep, and we use that as a springboard into smarter load management, recovery, and choosing when to skip an event to get ready for a true target race like Sierra Zinal. We also share a quick foot care segment on injury prevention, insoles, socks, and why your feet deserve as much strategy as your workouts. If you enjoyed this, subscribe or follow, share it with a friend who loves trail running, and leave a rating and review so we can keep bringing you more athlete stories and race coverage.Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailA lot of athletes say they love the mountains, but Andy Cornish actually builds her whole season around them. We talk about Jackson Hole summer life, getting up on the Grand Teton, and how growing up in the Tetons shaped a style that blends trail running, mountaineering, and ski mountaineering into one “mountain athlete” path.Andy also shares what it feels like to join the Mammoot team and why the fit matters when your goals don't look like the standard trail racing checklist. We get into the gear details that make big days smoother, including a vest-style 15-liter pack that can carry water up front and still haul climbing essentials, plus what she looks for in traction and support when moving fast on technical terrain.Then we go deeper on the question I've started asking more often: what's your why? Andy breaks down the mix of nerves, excitement, peace, and empowerment that comes from choosing hard objectives, especially as a woman in a space that still needs more representation. We close with a practical note every runner understands: foot care, injury mitigation, and why insoles and socks can make or break consistency when plantar or peroneal issues flare up.If you enjoy these athlete stories and mountain-focused training talk, subscribe or follow, share this with a friend who lives for steep trails, and leave a rating and review so we can keep making more.Follow Andie on IG - @andiecornishUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailMount Marathon looks simple on paper, but Sophie Wright explains why it can leave your entire body trashed for days. We talk about that unique kind of post-race soreness, how falling and braking on steep terrain adds up fast, and why this year's “no snow, straight to hard shale” descent made the race feel extra sketchy. If you've ever wondered why a short mountain running effort can hurt more than a long run, this conversation puts real words to it.We also get into what it takes to actually improve on technical downhills. Sophie shares what she noticed from the best descenders in the field, how line choice can change everything, and what she wants to sharpen next. From there, we zoom out into training and coaching, including her work with David Norton, the value of time-based training in the mountains, and why variety like biking can make you stronger without just piling on miles.On the career side, Sophie opens up about the mental shift from college running to competitive trail running: how pressure creeps in, how fun can disappear, and how she's working to keep joy at the center while still chasing big goals. We cover her move to Colorado, altitude adjustment, and what the Front Range trail community adds to day-to-day motivation. Then we celebrate her signing with La Sportiva, talk shoes and gear, and look ahead to races like Cirque Series, Pikes Peak Ascent, The Rut, and Moab Half, plus why Mount Marathon will always pull her back. If you like the show, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a rating and review.Follow Sophie on IG - @wrightsophieUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailA trail running comeback can look heroic from the outside, but the real story usually lives in the months nobody sees: the freak accidents, the stalled fitness, the identity spiral, and the slow grind back to the start line. Danny Marino joins us right after her Broken Arrow 46K win to lay out exactly what it took to return and race fearlessly again.We get honest about the injury cycle that derailed her momentum, including a toe fracture that worsened into a full break, a surgery decision, and a knee crash that forced even more downtime. Danny shares what helped most when motivation dipped, why admitting “I want to give up” can be strangely empowering, and how working with both a psychologist and a sports psychologist normalized the emotional chaos that comes with being sidelined.Then we go practical: how she rebuilt fitness with cross training, gravel biking, and an aggressive strength training focus, why quality mattered more than big mileage, and what changed between last year's return and this year's breakthrough. Finally, we break down the Broken Arrow race itself, talk next steps toward CCC at UTMB week plus a humid, technical tune up at Ragged, and zoom out on the rise of short trail racing, live streams, and what the sport needs to keep growing.If this conversation lights a fire for your own training or recovery, subscribe, share it with a running buddy, and leave a rating and review. What's the hardest part of a comeback for you: the body, the mind, or trusting the process again?Follow Dani on IG - @dan_yell_aUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailHe's 44, he's racing almost every weekend, and he's still winning. Timmy Parr is one of the true American mountain running legends, and he's on a mission that sounds impossible until you hear how close he is: Project 5050, a plan to win a race in all 50 states. He's already checked off 46, and he tells us exactly which four states remain and how he's managing the travel, the training load, and the pressure that comes with chasing a public goal.We start with Whiteface Sky Races and get into the unglamorous truth about steep ski-run descents, DOMS, and why most runners never train at full speed on a 30% downhill. From there we zoom out into longevity in trail running and skyrunning: what changes in your 40s, how recovery slows down, and why “old man strength” can beat raw fitness through smarter pacing and better decisions. Timmy also shares how racing at altitude versus sea level affects confidence, performance, and even sleep.Then we go deep on history. Timmy walks us through his 2009 Leadville 100 win, including huge training weeks, brutal heat, the darkest mental patch of the day, and the moment the race turned. We also talk sponsorship politics, corporatization in trail racing, and why community-driven events still feel like the soul of the sport.If you love trail running, ultramarathon stories, mountain race strategy, and real talk about staying competitive as you age, this one delivers. Subscribe, share it with a running friend, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.Follow Timmy on IG - @timparr1Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailA two-loop skyrace sounds straightforward until you're halfway through lap one and realize the real battle is in your head. We sit down with Morgan Elliott just before Whiteface Skyrace in upstate New York, where family is nearby, the terrain is steep, and the season is already packed with travel, racing, and big expectations.We get into what makes Whiteface different: a double-loop format, ski resort climbing that can feel brutally simple, and the mental math of how hard you can push when you know you have to do it all again. Morgan shares how he thinks about effort management, why he'd rather negative split than go out blazing hot, and how tricky it can be when multiple races start together and the early pack might be running a shorter distance.From there we zoom out to the US Skyrunning Series and the larger skyrunning world, including how points, finals, and prize purses shape a season without fully defining it. Morgan talks about chasing experiences as much as results, why Alaska's running community feels more like Europe's fan culture, and the honest truth that winning without real competition can feel like nothing. We wrap with a fun detour into iconic courses like Quest for the Crest and Broken Arrow, and what great course design really takes.If you care about skyrunning, trail running strategy, mountain racing culture, and how elite athletes stay motivated, hit play. Subscribe, share this with a training partner, and leave a review with the race you most want to see Morgan take on next.Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailA 20K with nearly 8,000 feet of climbing shouldn't exist, and yet Whiteface Sky Race is about to make a whole field of strong runners question their life choices. Steve Taylor joins us from smoky Colorado Springs as we turn our full attention to Whiteface, the opener of the Merrill U.S. Skyrunner Circuit, and one of the steepest, most punishing race profiles you'll find in the United States. Two loops. A massive early climb that gains about 3,000 feet in 2.5 miles. Long stretches that flirt with 30% to 40% grade. No hiding from it.We talk through what that terrain demands, from steep hiking strength and leg durability to the psychology of being told to go do it all again for lap two. The Adirondacks and Lake Placid backdrop get their own moment too, because this region's rugged trails, wet technical footing, and big-mountain feel are exactly why this race belongs on a skyrunning calendar. If you're the kind of trail runner who loves “kick you in the teeth” courses, Whiteface is the blueprint.Then we get tactical: Morgan Elliott's form and résumé, who might hang on early, and the under-the-radar names that could surprise when the grade turns brutal. On the women's side we spotlight Robin Vierre-Brower, dig into challengers, and talk winning-time expectations. We also look ahead to the season stakes and the Kismet Cliff Run final on September 13 in North Conway, New Hampshire. Subscribe, share this with your mountain running crew, and leave a review. Who's your podium pick for Whiteface?Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailA double loop can turn a mountain race into a mind game fast. We sit down with Robin Vieira Brower right as Whiteface Sky Race week kicks off to talk through what changes when you know you have to climb the same mountain twice and still have the legs to descend it. Robin shares why she'd normally rather disappear into a point-to-point style course, and how she plans to use lap one as a live course study so she can be more intentional and efficient when it's time to go again.We also get honest about what makes East Coast skyrunning feel uniquely brutal: steep grades, quad-crushing descents, and long stretches where “running” turns into fast hiking. Robin breaks down how she thinks about pacing that first downhill, why hiking-heavy terrain gives her a mental break from flat-speed turnover, and what it's like to race when you might be alone for big chunks of the day. That solitude can mess with your confidence, but it can also sharpen focus if you stay present and commit to racing your own race.On the practical side, we talk gear and prep: choosing between trusted Norda trail shoes and a more structured option for security, squeezing in a travel-day shakeout, and how much course scouting is helpful without tipping into overthinking. Robin also explains why she's keeping nutrition steady rather than experimenting, and why a solid, controlled day matters after months of injury setbacks and life stress. If you care about skyrunning strategy, mountain running mindset, and smart comeback racing, this one's for you. Subscribe, share this with a training partner, and leave a review with your best tip for staying steady when the race gets steep.Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailMount Marathon is the kind of race that makes no sense on paper and perfect sense the moment you watch it. It is short, steep, chaotic, and deeply tied to Seward, Alaska and the local mountain running community, yet it keeps attracting bigger names and deeper competition every year. We sit down with Klaire Rhodes just before July 4 to hear how she is feeling heading into race week after a packed, travel heavy June, and why she still shows up even when it is not the main goal on her calendar.We talk about what Mount Marathon means when you do not come from a traditional running background, and how Klaire's competitive journey started with an auction entry back in 2018. From there, we get into the athlete side of the puzzle: how she maintains top end speed and sharpness while building toward longer trail races, why being well rounded matters, and how short mountain efforts can support big objectives like CCC at UTMB. Klaire also reflects on the legends she noticed first in Alaska, the strange feeling of becoming part of the race's history, and the relief and hunger that can both show up after a win.Conditions matter at Mount Marathon, and this year's talk includes a snowless descent, potential rain, and what that could mean for times, tactics, and the chances of chasing a personal best versus a course record. We also look ahead to her summer plans, including Speedgoat 50K and a focused push to nail a mountainous 100K at CCC.If you love trail running, mountain racing, and the stories that only iconic local events can produce, hit play, subscribe, and share this with a friend who needs a new race obsession. After you listen, what do you think decides Mount Marathon more: the climb or the descent?Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailMount Marathon looks simple on paper: sprint from downtown Seward, climb hard, then hang on for dear life all the way back to the finish. But the people who live it know it's something else entirely. We're joined by Eric and Denali Strabel to tell the story of why this Fourth of July mountain running race carries so much history, emotion, and identity for Alaska, and why it still feels like the purest kind of “go there and throw down” competition.We talk about growing up inside the race's lore, from junior starts to volunteering and community pride, and how the mountain becomes personal over decades. Denali shares the women who shaped her view of toughness and resilience, including Nina Kemple and the era-to-era shift that took the women's field from a handful of sub-hour performances to a deep group of contenders. We also dig into how champions like Christy Marvin keep raising the bar through longevity, fearlessness, and a love of racing that doesn't fade.Eric walks through his own evolution from years of frustration to consistent training, durability, and finally winning the race. He breaks down what makes Mount Marathon unique for trail running and mountain race preparation: it's a climbing mountain, not a runnable one, and fitness only matters if your body can transmit it on steep terrain and an unforgiving downhill. From his 2013 course record battle with Ricky Gates to the turning point of 2015 when Killian Jornet arrived at full power, we map how the race went from a local proving ground to an event with international gravity.If you love mountain running, downhill running, trail racing history, and the mindset it takes to go all-in for less than an hour, this conversation is for you. Subscribe, share this with a friend who loves steep trails, and leave a review with your favorite Mount Marathon moment or question.Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailMount Marathon is the kind of course that doesn't care about your resume. It's steep, loose, fast, and packed with a century of mountain running history, and that's exactly why we wanted Kyle Richardson back on the podcast right before the 98th running.We talk about what it means to arrive in Alaska healthy after past injuries, and why that alone can feel like a win in trail running and skyrunning. Kyle shares how he's balancing curiosity with competitiveness as a first-timer, taking in the Alaskan mountain running culture, swapping notes with locals, and treating the whole scene like a masterclass in steep movement. If you've ever traveled for a race with unfamiliar terrain, you'll recognize the mix of awe and nerves he describes when you stare up at a mountain that everyone else seems to know by heart.Kyle also opens up about changing his approach to training by working with coach Jack Kenzel. We get into structured interval sessions, weighted workouts, heat training, and why “hard days harder, easy days stupid easy” can be a breakthrough when you're used to chasing constant effort. We also dig into the mental shift from FKTs, where you can pick the perfect day, to racing, where the calendar is fixed and you accept whatever the mountain gives you.We wrap with the practical details that matter on a course like this: shoes with lugs for mud, gaiters for fine rock, uncertain line choices through braided sections, and the simple commitment to go full gas on the descent. If you like conversations about mountain race strategy, technical descending, and training specificity, hit play, then subscribe, share this with a trail buddy, and leave us a review.Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailA 5K with nearly 3,000 feet of climbing should not be able to feel this fast, but Mount Marathon always does. We're heading into July 4 in Seward, Alaska with a start list that looks deeper than usual, and we wanted a true course and field preview that actually helps you watch the race with smarter eyes. Meg Cook joins us to unpack why Mount Marathon still represents the most primal version of mountain running: a hard uphill road start, a chaotic funnel into the mountain, and a descent where commitment matters as much as fitness. We walk through the course section by section, including the early decision between the cliffs and the roots, the tight “squirrels” zone where passing gets tricky, and the grind to the top that turns into hands-on-knees hiking. Then we get into the part everyone talks about: the descent. We cover scree technique, how snow can change the fastest line, why the gut can be wet, slippery, and decisive, and what makes the final road sprint feel so brutal after you've already burned your legs on the mountain. We also talk practical gear and trail running tactics, from minimal shoe choices and gaiters to why some racers wear gloves just to survive the scree. From there, we zoom out to the competition and the storylines. We talk how Mount Marathon qualification works, why petitions are “do or die,” and why experience on this hill still matters even with elite skyrunning talent arriving. We break down the men's and women's contenders, debate whether records are on the table, and make our picks for the top five on both sides. If you love mountain racing, skyrunning, and the culture around historic trail running events, this one gives you a complete watch guide. If you enjoy these previews, subscribe, share this with a friend who's tuning in on July 4, and leave a quick review so more mountain running fans can find the show.Follow Meg on IG - @scrambledmegsUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailKarina Andersen's season doesn't start with a perfect training block, it starts with a hard reset. After closing out her track era at Colorado School of Mines, she steps away from school for breathing room, takes on Denali, and then spends months living in Chamonix to see what a true mountain town feels like day to day. We talk about the real pressure that can come with places like Chamonix and Boulder, where it's easy to feel like you have to “earn” your time there with constant vert, big objectives, and public training proof.Then the comeback gets loud. Karina spends the winter going all-in on ski mountaineering with almost zero running, and still shows up in Asia to race the Penang Sky Race in Malaysia and the Ueda Sky Race in Japan, taking 4th and 8th. We break down what heat and humidity do to pacing, why concrete downhills can shred your quads, how mud changes risk and speed, and why uphill fitness can return faster than downhill durability when you've been on skis for months.The most important part is the mental side. Karina shares what it's like to carry a tough DNF and panic mid-race, then rebuild confidence by changing the goal from “place” to “stay present.” We also get into her 2026-focused skyrunning plans, thoughts on UTMB and Golden Trail, and a wild new skill: learning to paraglide in Annecy, with a long-term dream of hike-and-fly racing like Red Bull X-Alps.If you're into skyrunning, trail running, mountain racing, ski mountaineering, or just figuring out the next chapter, this one hits. Subscribe, share it with a friend who needs a reset, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailSome athletes chase attention. Jen Day Denton chases a feeling, and somehow ends up rewriting what's possible on the map. We talk with the Steep Stuff Podcast's “FKT Queen” about how a non professional, mom first approach can still produce world class fastest known time performances across the Mountain West, from Lone Peak to long linkups and iconic summit days.Jen grew up in Utah with the mountains as her backyard, but she didn't come up through competitive running or the racing scene. She shares how life changes after divorce opened tiny windows of time, and how those hours became a lifeline: running, crying, healing, and eventually discovering that curiosity can turn into real mountain speed records. We dig into her Grand Teton effort, why some mountains feel sacred, and how record flagging and community politics can complicate what should be a simple day outside.We also break down The WURL in the Wasatch Range, including route finding, fueling lessons, support strategy, and what it's like to move through terrain that's both brutal and deeply personal. Then we jump to Pico de Orizaba as part of her long game toward Everest, and she opens up about a serious paragliding accident, the rehab grind, and the hard earned perspective that comes with risk.If you care about mountain running, FKTs, endurance mindset, and the human stories behind the GPX files, this one is for you. Subscribe, share this with a mountain friend, and leave a review with the peak you'd most want to run in a single push.Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailBroken Arrow is no longer “a big US race” and Sunapee is no longer “just a championship weekend.” These two stops are starting to feel like proof that trail running and mountain running in North America has entered a new era: deeper fields, smarter tactics, better coverage, and performances that hold up on the world stage.We sit down together to unpack what we saw across the US Mountain Running Championships at Sunapee and the Broken Arrow Skyrace festival, from pacing strategy on runnable early miles to the chaos of steep ski-hill starts at altitude. We talk about why these courses demand real planning, how athletes can make huge moves after the opening climb, and why knowing the terrain can be as valuable as fitness. Along the way, we dig into the “don't believe elites when they say they are injured” phenomenon and how cross-training like skiing and biking can still produce world-class race days.We also nerd out on what great storytelling looks like for the sport, including Broken Arrow's next-level live stream and the tech behind it, plus how commentary can help fans understand what is happening in real time. Then we get into the results and the human stories: breakthrough performances, veteran longevity, and comeback wins that make you want to lace up your shoes immediately.If you care about trail running results, mountain running tactics, the Golden Trail Series ecosystem, or where the US scene is headed next, hit play. Subscribe, share this with a friend who loves the sport, and leave a review with the most impressive performance from the weekend.Follow Rachel on IG - @rachrunsworldUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailYou can learn a lot about mountain running by talking to someone who didn't grow up logging endless run miles. Marshall Graybill comes to the sport through cycling and ski mountaineering, with all the fitness those sports build and all the baggage they can bring, too. We get honest about what it feels like to line up for a race after crashes and concussions, how fear shows up in specific scenarios, and why trail running can feel like a mental reset compared to crit racing chaos. Marshall also lives a double life that a lot of driven athletes will recognize: he's deep into a PhD focused on underwater robotics, studying alternative propulsion inspired by marine organisms. That time pressure forces a different training mindset, and we talk about how to stay competitive with shorter, harder sessions, how to avoid the Strava comparison trap, and how to pick races that fit real life. If you're chasing endurance performance with limited hours, this one is packed with relatable strategy. We also swap stories from skimo culture in Colorado, the intensity of local “world cup” style races, and the frustrating reality of canceled events and narrow qualification paths now that skimo is an Olympic sport. Then we jump to Marshall's surprise 25K win at the Waterville Trail Running Festival in Ireland, where navigation, farm crossings, and under-flagged trails turn a race into a problem-solving mission. We wrap with Broken Arrow plans, pacing lessons at altitude, and why the community keeps bringing him back. If you enjoy conversations on trail running, mountain running, skimo training, altitude racing, and balancing sport with a demanding career, subscribe, share this with a training partner, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.Follow Marshall on IG - @marshallgraybillUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailSkyrunning is back on U.S. soil, and we wanted to make the details impossible to miss. James Lauriello sits down with Eti Rodriguez (Managing Director, Skyrunner World Series), Ben Stark (Brand Manager, Merrell), and Louis Down (Media and Communications, Skyrunner) for a roundtable on what the new Merrell Skyrunner U.S. National Series is, why the timing finally makes sense, and how this season can grow a real skyrunning fan base in the United States.We get into the big questions first: why it has been so hard to establish consistent skyrunning races in the U.S., what role organizers and permitting play, and why the country's terrain is actually the perfect argument for a national series. From steep coastal climbs to big mountain routes and Alaska-level wildness, skyrunning thrives when courses demand more than runnable trail. Eddie and Louie also clarify the skyrunning vs trail running distinction and why that niche identity is a strength, not a limitation.On the brand side, Ben explains why Merrell is leaning in globally and what that means for athletes and spectators at U.S. stops. Expect community-forward activations, athlete interactions, and demo opportunities featuring key Merrell trail and mountain running shoes, plus a big push at Beast of Big Creek where the World Series and National Series meet. We also talk about live stream potential, the race lineup (Whiteface Sky Race, Beast of Big Creek, Sitka Skyline Scramble, and the Kismet Cliff Run final), and how rankings and prize money work, including a $20,000 purse at the final.If you care about technical mountain racing, short and steep sufferfests, and a clearer pathway for U.S. skyrunners, this one sets the stage. Subscribe, share this with a training partner, and leave a review with your pick for the must-watch race of the series.Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailBroken Arrow isn't just another race weekend anymore, it's the point in the season where trail running feels like it snaps into full focus. Steve Taylor joins me to talk through why this stop has exploded into a true international destination in North America, how the venue and spectator access change the vibe, and why the growing prize purse keeps pulling the fastest names into one start list. If you're tracking the road from Broken Arrow to Western States, Hardrock, and UTMB, this is the moment where storylines start to lock in.We zoom in on the Broken Arrow Ascent and get specific about what makes this course weirdly brutal: the full-gas ski hill start, the fast road and singletrack sections that reward speed strength, and the reality that a “vertical” can still punish you for racing like it's a 3-minute effort. We talk pacing, tactics, and why this format can favor athletes with big VO2 engines, while still demanding legit climbing legs once the lactic hits and the finish gets close.Then we get into the fun debate: is this the race of the roadies, or do mountain specialists still own the day? We dig into the crossover trend, what it does for the sport's visibility, and why trail running remains a skill even on runnable terrain. From the stacked women's matchup to the men's field depth and our podium picks, you'll walk away with clear names to watch and a sharper sense of how the Ascent is likely to unfold. If you like the breakdown, subscribe, share the episode with a trail buddy, and leave a quick review.Contact our CoHost Steve Taylor for Commercial Insurance NeedsDirect - (970)-384-8338Email - steve.taylor@glenwoodins.comUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailTwo loops can turn a fast mountain race into a straight up psychological experiment. Broken Arrow 46K is the perfect example: you rip a demanding first lap, punish your quads on the descent, and then get asked to climb back into the pain cave all over again. We're back with Steve Taylor to preview how this ultramarathon-style trail race really plays out when pacing mistakes start compounding and the second loop becomes the only thing that matters.We dig into the stakes, including the prize money, and then get specific on the men's field: why Eli Hemming looks like the clear favorite, what it would take for someone like Chad Hall to actually break him, and how racers like Noel Williams, Brian Whitfield, and Cole Campbell fit into the front pack math. We also go deep on sleepers and high-variance names, from Jared Hazen's upside to under-the-radar threats like Matt Chorney, Matt Zupan, Mikey Mitchell, and Nicholas Turko. If you like race strategy, we talk through where separation is likely to happen and why this course rewards patience more than ego.Then we shift to what might be the main event: the women's race. We make the case that the women's field is deeper, talk Rachel Drake's form, Dani Moreno's toughness coming off injury, and why Jasmine Louther and Leah Yingling make the triple crown storyline so interesting. We also debate whether the women can dip under last year's winning time and what kind of day it takes to earn a podium at Broken Arrow 46K.Subscribe for more race previews, share this with a friend who's lining up at Broken Arrow, and leave a review if you want more picks, more sleepers, and more honest takes. Who's on your podium and what's your spiciest prediction?Contact our CoHost Steve Taylor for Commercial Insurance NeedsDirect - (970)-384-8338Email - steve.taylor@glenwoodins.comUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan Mail$102,200 on the line, a Nike livestream, staggered elite starts, and a start list so deep we joke we'd need a hundred pre-race interviews to cover it. Broken Arrow 23K is lining up like a mini all-star event for trail running and mountain running, and we're here to call the shots before the gun goes off.We dig into why this prize purse matters and why we want payouts like this to become the benchmark for marquee races that draw international talent. Then we get practical: 14.25 miles, about 4,500 feet of climbing, a lot of fast running, and the late-race terrain where things can finally get spicy. We also talk broadcast and logistics, including the staggered starts for elite women and men and what that means for how the race unfolds and how you should watch it.From there, it's pure storyline season. On the women's side we're fired up about Ninka Brinkman's return, McKenna Morley's step up into a brutally stacked field, and the long list of podium-level threats who could turn this into a total coin flip. On the men's side we look at the tacticians and the burners, what happened last year, and why Elhousine Elazzaoui, Patrick Kipngeno, and a rising American contingent make the tactics just as interesting as the fitness. Finally, we lock in our top-five picks for both races and explain exactly what would have to happen for our calls to be right.If you're watching Broken Arrow 23K live, listen first, make your own picks, and come back to tell us what we got wrong. Subscribe, share this with a trail running friend, and leave a review so we can keep bringing the hype with better and better coverage.Contact our CoHost Steve Taylor for Commercial Insurance NeedsDirect - (970)-384-8338Email - steve.taylor@glenwoodins.comUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailJoin us Thursday - Sunday at the Broken Arrow Vendor Expo at the Sidas booth! You can also hang with us Thursday 6/18 at the Mountain Tiger Group Run at Donner SummitUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailSomeone finally closes the gap on you mid-race. You don't know if it's one runner or the whole field. Your legs are fading on a rocky climb, the descents are muddy and technical, and every choice feels expensive. That's the moment where champions either tighten up or stay clear headed. We talk with 2026 U.S. Mountain Running Champion Maya Rayle just days after her win to find out what she told herself, what she did tactically, and why she never let the race turn into a panic spiral. We break down the Sunapee course in practical trail running terms: how she handled an aggressive start, where she felt strongest, and why the descents were actually the highlight. Maya shares what it looked like when Elisa caught her, how she managed the pass without giving up contact, and how subtle terrain changes like trail sections, fire roads, and long downhills shape pacing in mountain running. If you care about race strategy, downhill running technique, and staying composed under pressure, this recap delivers real, usable lessons. Training talk gets equally honest. Maya explains being self-coached, balancing preparation with field ecology research in remote Montana, and using winter backcountry skiing and Nordic skiing to build aerobic volume without forcing a rigid weekly mileage plan. We also dig into Missoula's low-key but highly athletic culture, the value of supportive training partners, and how she's thinking about the transition to Broken Arrow and representing Team USA in Canada. If this conversation helps you rethink your own trail running training or race mindset, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review. What's the hardest part for you: the climb, the descent, or staying calm when the race changes?Follow Maya on IG - @maya_rayleUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa

Send us Fan MailPost Sunapee Interview from Sunapee Mountain in NH - Mason was interviewed by the commentary team, Rachel Tomajacyk, James Lauriello, Remi Leroux & Corinee Shalvoy Use code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa