Podcasts about sidas

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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

Send us Fan MailOne wrong turn can end your day, or it can reveal what you're made of. Right after the U.S. Mountain Running Championships, we link up with Ares Reading in the airport for a quick, honest debrief on how he ran himself into fourth place and onto Team USA, right behind names like Christian Allen, Dan Curts, and Mason Coppi.We walk the race from the opening climb to the moment Ares, Mason, and Christian all followed the wrong markers into the woods, and the split-second mental scramble that followed. Ares explains how he settled back in, where he regained ground, and why the technical downhills are still the biggest separator for him. If you care about mountain running, trail racing tactics, and what actually changes performance week to week, this conversation gets specific fast.We also dig into training with coach Matt Daniels, including fatigue resistance sessions, long hill reps, and a hill ladder workout designed to simulate pushing hard on tired legs. Ares shares how getting dropped on technical descents at Canyons flipped a switch, why he's leaning into more technical downhill practice, and what he's most excited about next at Broken Arrow and beyond, with international goals on the horizon.If you're chasing your own breakthrough, hit play, then subscribe, share this with a trail friend, and leave a review so more runners can find the show.Follow Ares on IG - @ares_readingUse 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 Mail2026 USATF Mountain Running Championship - Sunapee Scramble Live Stream AudioHostsJames Lauriello - @jameslaurielloRemi Leroux - @remi_lerouxCorinne Shalvoy - @corinne_shalvoyageRachel Tomajczyk - @rachrunsworldAll Rights - Six03Endurance & Marathon Sports 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 muddy ski slope can turn a championship race into a traction test, and Mount Sunapee is exactly that kind of day. We sit down with rising mountain runner Rena Schwartz for a quick, honest pre-race check-in before the US Mountain Running Championships, where the stakes include confidence, experience, and a real shot at Team USA.Rena talks about how wild it feels to be back a year later, especially since last year was basically her first true trail race. We get into what's changed since then: more consistent running, working with coach David Roach, and learning how to approach a stacked field without pretending you have every answer. She shares why she's treating Sunapee as a chance to practice racing itself, the emotions, the decisions, and the moments where you choose to push or stay controlled.We also go deep on the details that decide outcomes on the East Coast: mud, slick grass, water, and the shoe choice that can make you brave or cautious on the descents. Rena breaks down her move from Salomon roots to the La Sportiva Prodigio Pro and what she still doesn't know about that setup when conditions get sloppy. We round out with her summer plans, including Broken Arrow (VK and 23K), the reality of managing knee pain after a 50K, and her exciting news about joining the Green Racing Project.If you're into mountain running, trail racing strategy, and the behind-the-scenes choices athletes make before a big start line, you'll get a lot out of this one. Subscribe, share it with a training partner, and leave a review with your best tip for racing in the mud.Follow Rena Schwartz on IG - @rena.s22Use 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 MailSunapee is the kind of short trail race that exposes everything you skipped in training. Two loops. Steep ski-area grades. A second lap that turns sloppy and technical. And if the forecast holds, wet rock, roots, and mud that can rip shoes right off your feet. That's why we're so fired up for the Sunapee Scramble and the US Mountain Running Championships, where a national title and Team USA selection spots are on the line. We walk through the course in plain language, then get specific about what actually wins here: when to push the first climb, why patience matters before the second loop, and how East Coast terrain changes the game for athletes coming from smoother, faster trails. We also dig into the “complete runner” trend in mountain running, where pure aerobic engine is not enough and technical descending skill plus race-day decision-making can flip the results in minutes. Then we name names. We talk women's contenders and the wide-open opportunity created by who's not on the start list, plus the men's field with proven killers, risky front-runners, and a few dark horses who could turn this into a breakout performance. We also touch on prize money and what it means for sustainable growth in professional trail running. Subscribe for more mountain running previews, share this with a friend who loves short trail chaos, and leave a review with your podium picks so we can debate them after the race.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 MailMud, pressure, and a two-loop course that punishes impatience. We sit down with Oakley Olson as she heads into Sunapee for the US Mountain Running Championships, fresh off finishing her time at Florida State and moving back to Utah where altitude and technical trails feel like home again.Oakley walks us through what NCAA training in the ACC gives her heading into trail running season, then breaks down Twisted Fork in Park City: a great venue, a stacked vibe, and weather that turned the day into a cold, sliding mess. That experience tees up the questions every trail runner asks before a rainy championship: Which shoes actually hold in mud, how many pairs do you pack, and how do you stay composed when footing is gone and time no longer matters?The conversation goes deeper when Oakley explains what a Team USA spot means to her, shaped by growing up a military kid and living overseas. We also dig into the skills that make her dangerous on a course like Sunapee: fearless descending rooted in steeplechase, patient tactics for loop two, and the mindset shift from imposter syndrome to believing you belong on the start line. She closes with a clear theme for race day: be the hunter, not the hunted.If you care about mountain running, trail racing strategy, and the mental side of competing when the field is deep, hit play. Subscribe, share this with a friend chasing big goals, and leave a review with your best tip for racing in the mud.Follow Oakley on IG - @oakleyolsonUse 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 races can be the most revealing, especially when they're your first start back after injury. We sit down with a Quebec-based Brooks athlete ahead of the Sunapee Scramble to talk about what it really feels like to open a season in June, how to race without a perfect taper, and why “no pressure” still turns into a hard charge once the gun goes off. If you love trail running, mountain running, and the messy reality of rebuilding fitness, this one is packed with practical detail. We break down the Sunapee Scramble course like racers do: a two-loop format, a brutally steep first climb, and the kind of conditions where mud can erase even the best plans. You'll hear how packs form early, why staying connected without leading can be a winning move, and how power hiking habits can help or hurt depending on grade and terrain. We also get into gear decisions for wet trails, including shoe options, traction, and the reality that sometimes the course is slick no matter what you wear. Then we zoom out to the bigger season. Broken Arrow brings altitude concerns, confidence questions, and a reminder that mindset matters as much as physiology when you're climbing near 3,000 meters. We talk scheduling, world championship goals, and training sessions that actually translate to steep trail performance: sustained threshold climb efforts, smart downhill work for eccentric strength, and pacing choices that keep you racing strong late. If you enjoy the show, subscribe, share it with a training partner, and leave a quick review so more trail runners can find us.Follow Elisa on IG - @elisamorinfrcaUse 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 East Coast trail running season flips on fast, and suddenly you're staring down wet descents, ski-slope climbs, and a start line packed with people who have nothing to lose. We sit down with mountain runner and race director Aimee Kohler right before Sunapee to get practical about how you actually prepare for a short, brutally competitive mountain race when life is already full. She's coming off injury, rebuilding fitness in a compressed training block, and still managing a spring race directing calendar that leaves “balance” feeling like a myth. We dig into what makes a two-loop course tricky, why loop one can bait you into going out too hot, and how Amy thinks about positioning so she can attack when the second loop gets longer and more technical. She calls out the glades descent as the make-or-break section and shares how she's approaching pacing with restraint early so she can hammer late. If you love skyrunning, mountain running, and East Coast trail racing, you'll recognize the stakes: the moment you hesitate, the field swarms. Then we go full gear nerd, from traction and outsole feel to what Amy plans to race in (Hoka Zinal 3) and what she trains in when the miles get longer. We wrap with her summer schedule and big goals, including Whiteface, Loon, Escarpment, and Grindstone 50K with UTMB OCC qualification on the horizon, plus a look behind the curtain at Running Kind events and the logistical chaos of directing a Backyard Ultra where you can't predict the finish time. Subscribe, share this with a training partner, and leave a review, then tell us: do you race loop one conservative or go on the attack?Follow Aimee on IG - @aimskohLooking for more fun races in the Northeast? Check out The Running Kind ! - @therunningkind_ / The Running KindThe Running Kind Races ->  @therunningkindUse 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 “simple” mountain race into a full blown tactics problem, especially when the second lap gets more technical and the weather hints at mud. We're joined by Taylor Peavey ahead of the US Mountain Running Championships to talk through the nerves and excitement of stepping into her first true mountain classic and why that unknown is exactly what makes it worth chasing. We get into real race strategy: how measured pacing on loop one can still keep you in position, where moves tend to happen once the course steepens up, and how to stay open minded while racing against a deep field. Taylor also shares how she thinks about course previewing, arriving a couple days early, and handling East Coast style trails that have a reputation for being slick and unforgiving. Footwear talk gets specific, because on a rainy championship day your shoe choice is part of your plan. Taylor compares what she's liked in the Nike ACG Ultrafly and why she's considering a lower profile option like the Nike Kiger for better control on steep descents. We also zoom out to the season, from Broken Arrow to Sierre Zinal, and what a Team USA opportunity and racing in Canada could mean for building experience ahead of bigger world team goals. If you're into mountain running, trail racing tactics, technical descending, and the training mindset that holds up when the race gets chaotic, hit play. Subscribe, share this with a training partner, and leave a review with your best mud racing tip.Follow Tayler on IG - @taylerwithlimeUse 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 neck surgery is not part of any training plan, but it became the center of Dan Curts offseason and the lens for everything that came after. We sit down with Dan ahead of Mount Sunapee to talk about what recovery actually feels like when your body is “cleared” but not fully back, from tightness and numbness to the strange details you never expect. It is an honest look at health, patience, and how quickly confidence can wobble when consistency gets interrupted. From there, we get practical about mountain running training. Dan explains why he changed coaches, why the rebuild started with strength and volume instead of flashy workouts, and how he is trying to upgrade the aerobic engine that can get exposed in longer high-intensity efforts. We also go deep on technical downhill running, including his take on fear, focus, and why the best “hack” for better descending is still time on the terrain, especially when you are tired. If you care about trail running performance, skyrunning skills, and smart endurance training, there is a lot here to steal. We close with race-day thinking for Sunapee, what the bigger prize purse changes, and what Dan wants from the day beyond a result. Then we look ahead to Marathon du Mont Blanc, possible FKT dreams like the Presidential Traverse, and the real-life question of where to live to train with the right climbs and the right people. If you enjoyed this, subscribe, share it with a training partner, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.Follow Dan on IG - @dancurtsUse 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 mess with your head in a way a single climb never will, and Mount Sunapee is the perfect example. We sit down with Courtney Coppinger to get specific about what wins a mountain classic style race: how hard to push the first climb, where the real separation happens on lap two, and why the steep grass start is the fastest way to ruin your day if you get greedy. If you love mountain running, trail racing, and short high-intensity climbs with technical descents, this one is pure gold. Courtney walks us through the training that matches the course, especially the underrated skill of descending hard and then turning around to climb again. We talk race-simulation workouts, effort control, and the mindset shift of racing like an underdog even when people expect you to be up front. We also get into footwear strategy for Mount Sunapee, including why low-to-the-ground trail shoes with serious lugs matter when the downhill gets fast and messy. Then we zoom out to the bigger scene: Courtney's breakout spring in China, what she learned from WMRA World Cup racing, and what it is like serving on the WMRA athletes commission with topics like environmental impact and the complicated path toward Olympic recognition. Finally, she lays out a packed summer that includes Broken Arrow, TrailCon, a first skyrace in Peru, ETC during UTMB week, and a bold plan for the Golden Trail finals. If you enjoy deep race strategy and practical mountain running training advice, subscribe, share this with a friend who loves steep trails, and leave a review. What part of a two-loop race breaks you first, the second climb or the second descent?Follow Courtney on IG ! - @cpcop_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 MailSunapee is the kind of mountain race that exposes everything you try to hide, especially your downhill. We sit down with Remy LaRue to get specific about what changed in his training since last season, why he finally feels more prepared for the Sunapee Scramble, and how technical trail skills can make or break a two-loop race when the pace goes nuclear from the gun.We talk through the messy reality of getting to the start line healthy, including Remi's Achilles issues last winter and the foot and big-toe injury that hit mid-race last year. From there, we get practical about improvement: how he's building faster technical descents through repetition on rugged terrain, staying mentally engaged on downhills during easy runs, and developing the confidence to be efficient instead of cautious. It's a conversation about trail running performance that goes beyond workouts and into decision-making, risk, and skill.Strategy and gear get their own spotlight. Remy shares how he thinks about positioning when the first loop leader is often not the winner, what it feels like to race from too far back, and how he plans to balance an aggressive start with a strong second lap. We also get nerdy about shoes for wet, muddy trails, including why he might race in the Brooks Cascadia 19 for grip and stability even if it's heavier than the “optimal” choice. Plus: double-loop-specific training tweaks, the Golden Trail Series calendar, Quebec Mega Trail excitement, and what a big result would mean.If you like deep trail running talk that's honest, tactical, and useful, hit play. Subscribe to the podcast, share this with a training partner, and leave a review so more mountain runners can find us.Follow Remi on IG - @remi_lerouxUse 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 championship race can mess with your head before it ever tests your legs. We're back with Mason Cobi on the eve of the US Mountain Running Championships at Mount Sunapee, and we get real about the early season weirdness: stacked fields, unknown fitness, and the uncomfortable shift from “underdog” to “the guy people watch” on the start line. Mason breaks down how he thinks about pressure, why being keyed off can be a disadvantage, and how he's learning to race from a more established position without abandoning what made him dangerous in the first place. From there we go deep on mountain running tactics for a two loop course. We talk aggressive starters, when to let someone go, and how a simple pacing cap and a quick systems check can keep you from redlining early. Mason shares what he learned last year about respecting competitors, choosing the right moment to move, and why improved downhill running can completely change your options on race day. If you love short trail racing, this is the kind of practical strategy talk you can steal immediately. Then the conversation takes a turn to road speed and controlled chaos with the full Boston Marathon story. Mason shows up planning a victory lap after Gorge, decides to race anyway, and surprises himself with an OTQ and a huge PR. We also get into the experimentation side of endurance performance: super shoes, trail shoe choices for mud versus dry conditions, and the pros and cons of testing supplements like sodium bicarbonate and Nomeo, along with a clear warning about what not to try on your A race. If you're training for a mountain race, a marathon, or both, hit play and come race-nerd with us. Subscribe, share this with a friend who loves tactics, and leave a review. What's one decision you want to make smarter on your next start line?Follow Mason on IG - @mcoppi44Reach out to Mason for Coaching - Hello to 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 MailThat moment when a trail points straight down, the mud is slick, and your brain says “absolutely not” but you go anyway, laughing the whole way. That's the vibe of our pre-race sit-down with Gabby DeAngelis as Sunapee race week finally arrives, and it's also a perfect window into why New England trail running hooks so many people.We talk with Gabby about her unconventional path into the sport, from four years of college soccer at Siena to discovering she actually loved track workouts, then heading back to New Hampshire for grad school and running for the University of New Hampshire. She shares how hiking in the White Mountains shaped her comfort on technical terrain, why agility from soccer translates so well to rocky trails, and how she's approaching this season while coming off a knee injury.Then we get practical: what makes the Sunapee course feel so “vintage Northeast,” how the two-lap format changes your head game, and why the steep descent can be both terrifying and ridiculously fun. Gabby also explains what it means to be part of the Marathon Sports trail team, what she's racing in for shoes (Altra Mont Blanc Carbon), and which White Mountains routes she keeps coming back to, including a Mount Adams scramble and a redemption run after a missed turn.If you're into trail racing, skyrunning, the White Mountains, or the growing New England mountain running scene, you'll leave with course insight, mindset tools, and a reminder that sometimes the real opponent is the route itself. Subscribe, share this with a trail friend, and leave a review with your favorite technical descent story.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 MailYour backyard peak can be more than a workout, it can be a measuring stick for an entire community. We're joined by Kelsey Quinn from La Sportiva marketing plus athletes Anton Krupicka, Jason Dorias, and Tom Goth to unpack the La Sportiva Green Mountain and Grandeur Peak Challenge, running May 15 through June 15. The goal is simple and addictive: chase the fastest uphill time, stack the most summits, or just get in the game and let the mountain sharpen you. We get into why Green Mountain in Boulder has become a daily ritual for so many trail runners, from its proximity to town to the sheer number of ways you can climb it. Anton shares the kind of long-view perspective only years of repeats can create: how the trail has rerouted over time, how pre-Strava “ghost times” still shape the lore, and why breaking 30 minutes remains a real marker in mountain running. Then we shift to Grandeur Peak in Salt Lake City, a steep, clean effort that functions like a perfect vertical kilometer and a favorite training tool for ski mountaineers. Tom and Jason talk routes, strategy, and the local history of FKTs and early Strava rivalries, including why the West Grandeur line is such a magnet for uphill specialists and why poles often win the day. We also cover the prizes, including $750 cash for the fastest man and woman, awards for the most completions, and raffle entries for anyone who participates. If you're near Boulder or the Wasatch Front, this is your excuse to learn the route, test your pacing, and add your name to the story. Subscribe, share this with a training partner, and leave a review if you want more conversations like this.Details For Grandeur You have from May15 to June15 to complete the Grandeur Peak West Climb segment.The fastest single ascent (trailhead → summit) for both Male & Female during this timeframe will receive $750 cash each!The most verified summits during event window (Top 3 Most Completions) during this timeframe will receive $500 | $350 | $150 each!Every registered participant will be entered for a chance to win a pair of La Sportiva Mountain Running shoes (5 total) + other prizes!Dates:The challenge runs from May 15 to June 15, 2026.Details for Green The Challenge:You have from May15 to June15 to complete the Green Mountain via Amphitheater/Saddle Rock/Greenman Trail segment.The fastest single ascent (trailhead → summit) for both Male & Female during this timeframe will receive $750 cash each!The most verified summits during event window (Top 3 Most Completions) during this timeframe will receive $500 | $350 | $150 each!Every registered participant will be entered for a chance to win a pair of La Sportiva Mountain Running shoes (5 total) + other prizes!Dates:The challenge runs from May 15 to June 15, 2026.To Sign up  for the Green Mountain Challenge - >  RegisterTo Sign up for the Grandeur Peak Challenge -> RegisterFollow Anton Krupicka on IG - @antonkrupickaFollow Jason Dorias on IG - @jasondoriasFollow Tom Goth on IG - @tomgothUse 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 MailTrail running is getting faster right in front of us, and you can see it in the results: course records dropping, deeper fields showing up everywhere, and athletes crossing over from road and track with zero patience for “easing into” the trails. We sit down with Rachel Temaichek to catch up on a wild personal update from racing in Europe, then zoom out into what's already shaping the heart of the season across US trail racing, the Golden Trail World Series, the Skyrunner World Series, and the World Cup calendar.We recap Gorge Waterfalls 30K and why the Lauren Gregory vs Taylor Tuttle showdown felt like a statement race, plus what Mason Cope's performance says about the current level of American men's racing. From there we hit Canyons 50K, where Matt Daniels and McKenna Morley light up a fast course and push the bigger question: are nutrition, training, and shoe tech making trail running records the new normal? That naturally leads into Western States 100, where the fields look deep enough to make even “safe” picks feel spicy.On the international side, we talk Skyrunner quirks like evening starts and headlamps, then go deep on Zagama: the fan energy, the mud, Taylor Stack's historic American podium, and Tove Alexanderson's jaw-dropping course record. We also break down Ledro, the Kenyan depth in the men's race, and the ongoing debate about staggered starts and passing on technical descents. Subscribe for more race breakdowns, share this with a trail friend, and leave a review if you want more frequent ranking and results check-ins.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 MailMount Rainier is not the place where you get to switch your brain off and “just suffer.” The route moves, the glacier breathes, and a boot pack that looked safe two days ago can point straight at a crevasse. That's why Simon Kearns' new Mount Rainier round trip on-foot FKT, 3:43:50 car to car, stopped us in our tracks. Simon is an RMI Expeditions mountain guide and a rising name in mountain running and skyrunning, with speed records that include Mount Hood and a recent fastest time on Mailbox Peak. We talk through the real story behind the Rainier effort: a last-minute pivot away from a ski record attempt after snapping a race ski, the advantage and responsibility that comes with doing route work on the mountain, and how he stays sharp when the terrain demands both speed and precision. If you've ever wondered what “dialing a route” means on snow and ice, this conversation makes it concrete. We also get into how he trains around guiding logistics, why he works with Jackson Cole as a coach, and how he thinks about the balance between lonely FKT projects and the energy of racing. Along the way we swap notes on the Pacific Northwest volcano scene, European skyrunning culture in Chamonix, and what it looks like to pursue the AMGA and IFMGA guiding path while still chasing big athletic goals. If you like FKTs, alpine running, mountaineering strategy, and honest talk about risk, training, and motivation, hit play. Subscribe, share this with a mountain friend, and leave a review so more people can find the show.Follow Simon on IG - @simonkearns1Use 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 muddy mountainside, a deafening wall of fans, and a start line stacked with icons of trail running. Taylor Stack joins us right after Zegama to break down the day he turned a “maybe top 20 is solid” opportunity into a third place podium against one of the deepest Golden Trail World Series fields anywhere. If you've ever wondered what it actually feels like to race in Europe's steep, wet, technical chaos and still finish fast, Taylor gives the clearest picture I've heard. We get into the unsexy stuff that creates big results: consistent training, finding your personal volume sweet spot, and why he avoids chasing hero workouts for confidence. Taylor explains how he uses early-season races as rust busters, how living around 9,000 feet shapes his fitness, and why he drops down in elevation for faster sessions. We also talk metrics and why he keeps it simple with pace and heart rate instead of obsessing over running power. Then we go mile by mile through Zegama: the shockingly hard early pace, the iconic Sancti Spiritu climb shoulder to shoulder with Kilian Jornet, and the decision to stay controlled so he could attack late. Taylor shares how he fueled, how Golden Trail bottle service changes the game, what he saw when Kilian's day went sideways, and the mindset shift required to move from “podium is a dream” to “winning is the goal.” If you enjoy deep race recaps, practical mountain running training advice, and the mental side of performance, subscribe, share this with a training partner, and leave a review so more runners can find the show. What part of Taylor's approach are you going to try in your next build?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