Podcasts about sunapee

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

Psalm 139 June 14, 2026 preached by Pastor Doug Cooper Download Time of Reflection Quotations “Prayer is the way we work our way out of the comfortable but cramped world of self, and into the spacious world of God.” ~Eugene Peterson (1932-2018), American pastor, scholar, author “Our aim in studying the Godhead must be to […]

Jeana Newbern is here from the Lake Sunapee Region VNA and Hospice as we discuss that Andrea Patrick-Baudet, MBA, RN, CHPN, CHPCA, will join the agency as President and CEO, effective June 22. She replaces Jim Culhane, who led LSRVNA for 11 years in this role and departed on June 1 to lead another home health care organization in the state.

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

Rest Day Live is back tonight with a Freetrail x Boulder Boys mashup! Seth Ruhling and Adam Merry will co-host as we rip through a fun docket: 03:10 - Western States Banter: Seth withdrawing from the race, insider perspective on the field, Kilian affirming his participation, training in Flagstaff, etc. 42:37 - Canyon Woodward Signs with Patagonia 48:13 - Sunapee Scramble Recap 53:30 - European Championships Recap 1:01:00 - Industry News Roundup: Cocodona lottery & 50-mile relay idea, Rory Linkletter racing Broken Arrow 1:12:50 - Strava File of the Week We'll be LIVE on YouTube starting at 5pm PT tonight. Freetrail Links SUBSCRIBE TO FREETRAIL'S NEWSLETTER https://mailing.freetrail.com/newslettersignup JOIN FREETRAIL PRO https://freetrail.com/pro REGISTER FOR TRAILCON https://trailconference.com/register/ Sponsors Use code FREETRAIL25 for 25% off your first order of NEVERSECOND nutrition https://www.never2.com Check out the Capilene Cool Sun Hoodie from Patagonia https://www.patagonia.com/shop/favorites/capilene-cool-tech-tees/sun Use this link for 30% off Ketone-IQ https://ketone.com/pages/dylan-bowman?utm_source=partners&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=FREETRAIL30 Freetrail Links Website | https://freetrail.com/ Freetrail Pro | https://freetrail.com/freetrail-pro/ Patreon | https://www.patreon.com/dylanbowman Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/runfreetrail/ YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8MKI1xB8YMchI1764zJXHg Freetrail Experts | https://freetrail.com/freetrail-experts/ Dylan Links Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/dylanbo/ Twitter | https://twitter.com/dylanbo LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-bowman-06174380/ Strava | https://www.strava.com/pros/1596921

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 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

Romans 8:1-17 June 7, 2026 preached by Download Time of Reflection Quotations “Meditation is the activity of calling to mind, and thinking over, and dwelling on, and applying to oneself, the various things that one knows about the works and ways and purposes and promises of God… It is an activity of holy thought, consciously […]

Dani and Emkay preview the Sunapee Scramble, the USATF National Classic Mountain Championship, and what to expect from the fierce competition at Mount Sunapee. Whether you're tuning in for race details, predictions, or behind-the-scenes stories, this episode covers it all.Timestamps:00:00 - Episode Introduction & race weekend overview00:59 - Details on the Trailcon booth, live podcasts, and giveaways04:00 - Breakdown of Sunapee course structure and features06:44 - Prize purse highlights and prize breakdowns for top contenders07:44 - Women's race favorites and recent performances 09:28 - Notable women athletes and potential surprises11:42 - Weather forecast and race day conditions12:16 - Predicted top finishers and race strategies14:30 - Men's race analysis: contenders, recent results, and athlete backgrounds20:02 - Predictions, dark horse picks, and key athlete insights22:42 - Race viewing options, support opportunities, and wrap-upResources & LinksConnect with the HostsNote:Watch the live stream by visiting the SunapeeScramble website to stay updated during race day.----------

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 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 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 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 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 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 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

Romans 7:4, 12-25; 8:1-2 May 31, 2026 preached by Pastor Doug Cooper Download Time of Reflection Quotations “Do we find in our heart of hearts a spiritual struggle? Do we feel anything of the flesh warring against the spirit, and the spirit against the flesh, so that we cannot do the things we would? Are […]

Romans 6:8-23 May 17, 2026 preached by Pastor Doug Cooper Download Time of Reflection Quotations “Might like to wear cotton, might like to wear silk Might like to drink whiskey, might like to drink milk You might like to eat caviar, you might like to eat bread You may be sleeping on the floor, sleeping […]

From the Lake Sunapee Region VNA and Hospice, Jeana Newbern is here with outgoing CEO Jim Culhane as we talk to Jim about his tenure with the VNA, accomplishments he has been part of, the great staff at the VNA, Covid and lots more.  Plus we discuss the Women Who Make A Difference event that happened yesterday. 

Romans 6:1-11 May 10, 2026 preached by Pastor Doug Cooper Download Time of Reflection Quotations “Grace is an energy; not a mere sentiment; not a mere thought of the Almighty; not even a word of the Almighty. It is as real an energy as the energy of electricity. It is a divine energy; it is […]

Romans 5:12-6:2 May 3, 2026 preached by Pastor Doug Cooper Download Time of Reflection Quotations “Sin is believing the lie that you are self-created, self-dependent and self-sustained.” ~ Augustine (354-430), Bishop, theologian, philosopher & author “Sin, in short, is that vast moral disease which affects the whole human race, of every rank, and class, and […]

Matthew 20:16-28 April 26, 2026 preached by Chris Audino Download Time of Reflection Quotations “Power is a word, the meaning of which we do not understand.” ~ Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910), Russian author “Humility is throwing oneself away in complete concentration on something or someone else.” ~ Madeleine L’Engle (1918-2007), American writer of young adult fiction […]

Romans 5:1-11 April 19, 2026 preached by Paul Jeon Download Time of Reflection Quotations “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.” ~ Ephesians 1:3 (NIV) “We are halfhearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and […]

Romans 4:1-16 April 12, 2026 preached by Pastor Doug Cooper Download Time of Reflection Quotations “To be justified means more than to be declared ‘not guilty.' It actually means to be declared righteous before God. It means God has imputed or charged the guilt of our sin to His Son, Jesus Christ, and has imputed […]

April is Alcohol Awareness Month; from the Sunapee Police Dept Lt Tim Puchtler is here with Sunapee High School health teacher Alyssa Krause and three of her students Xing Tua, Avery Miller adn Vaelyn Bell as we talk about what the students have learned regarding alcohol, dangers, peer pressure, the project they are working on and lots more.

Romans 3:21-31; 4:23-25 April 5, 2026 preached by Pastor Doug Cooper Download Time of Reflection Quotations “For me the most radical demand of Christian faith lies in summoning the courage to say yes to the present risenness of Jesus Christ.” ~ Brennan Manning (1934-2013), American author, former priest “Human beings are hope-shaped creatures. The way […]

Send us Fan MailA re-release with a purpose: we're celebrating Zach Erickson's selection to the 2026 Trail Team Elite and unpacking the gritty, honest road that got him there. Zach grew up in Idaho Falls chasing every ball sport, found running in middle school, and lived the BYU dream—until a chronic hip injury benched him for a year and eventually cut him from the roster… twice. What followed wasn't a comeback montage; it was a mindset shift. He let go of fear, built gratitude into his daily training, and said yes to trails on a nudge from Christian Allen.That curiosity changed everything. Zach showed up as a total unknown at the US Mountain Champs at Snowbird and finished third. He followed with a collegiate national title at Sunapee and a podium at the Pikes Peak Ascent, proving he's built for steep, sustained climbing and high altitude. We dive into why trails fit his physiology better than the track, how cycling translates directly to uphill power, and what he learned from a humbling weekend at Broken Arrow. He shares altitude confidence built on a Peru trek to 15,000 feet, the value of course scouting, and why vertical races may be his sharpest blade.We also pull back the curtain on life inside an elite NCAA program—the allure and the pressure—and how trying to hang with national champions on rep one can derail long-term progress. Zach talks gear on a budget, hand-me-down super shoes, and segment hunting on Utah's canyon climbs. He's eyeing LOTOJA, the 200-mile Logan-to-Jackson ride, not as a detour but as targeted base work for mountains. Plus: triathlon chaos, ocean swims that humbled him, and the joy of stacking new skills even when you're a beginner.If you're navigating injury, searching for your best event, or just hungry for a grounded, practical take on mountain running, Zach's story delivers. Hit play to learn how to turn setbacks into fuel, build real climbing strength, and set goals that motivate without crushing you. If you enjoy the show, subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a training partner who loves big climbs.Follow Zachary on IG - @zacheriksonFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_pod

Romans 3:9-20 March 22, 2026 preached by Pastor Doug Cooper Download Time of Reflection Quotations “If we come to Scripture with our minds made up, expecting to hear from it only an echo of our own thoughts and never the thunderclap of God's, then indeed he will not speak to us and we shall only […]

From Mt Sunapee Resort, Rick Ruggles: Senior Manager, Base Area Experience, Doug Daniels: Senior Manager, Skier Services, and Mason Willet: Director, of Mountain Operations are all here as we talk about how the ski season has been, St Pattys skiing, the Slush Cup and Cardboard Race coming up, end of season, Easter plans, the mountain in the summer, and lots more.

Romans 3:1-9 March 15, 2026 preached by Download Time of Reflection Quotations “The operation of the Church is entirely set up for the sinner; which creates much misunderstanding among the smug.” ~ Flannery O'Connor (1925-1964), American author “There are only two kinds of men: the righteous who think they are sinners and the sinners who […]

From the Lake Sunapee Region VNA and Hospice, Jeana Newbern is here with Dr. AJ Abbruzzi, Hospice Medical Director, as we  talk about his background and role at LSRVNA, what he enjoys about working for the VNA, plus Inprov for Caregivers, Women Who Make A Difference, and more.

Romans 2:17-29 March 8, 2026 preached by Pastor Doug Cooper Download Time of Reflection Quotations “The hypocrite (Greek- hupokrites) was originally an actor. Theatrical make-up in those days took the form of a mask which the actor wore. On it would be painted the character and the mood which the actor portrayed. It might be […]

Jeana Newbern from the Lake Sunapee Region VNA and Hospice is here as we talk about Thriving Through The Ages, how busy it's been, there are still two left, and more.  We talk about how many towns the VNA serves, their Annual Meeting coming up in March, and more.

Send us a textWhat does it take to race on the edge, fix your flaws, and build a season that holds up under pressure? We dive deep with Mason Copi, fresh off a blistering run at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships and a domestic campaign that turned him from underrated to undeniable. Mason opens up about starting fast when the course rewards it, working the early road section, and the moment when cramps hit yet belief held. You'll hear how teammates on the course and a fired-up Team USA on the sidelines fueled each surge and why chasing the podium sometimes means accepting the crash.Then we get practical. Mason breaks down how he transformed downhill running from a fear response into an advantage using exposure reps on technical segments and a simple “monster truck” form cue. He shares the training blueprint that keeps him healthy while racing often: threshold work for speed and lactate clearance, high aerobic volume buffered by the bike, and minimalist strength focused on hips, glutes, calves, and soleus. No fluff, no gimmicks—just the boring, repeatable work that lets you push hard again next week. We also explore how rising U.S. depth—think Taylor, Cam, Christian—lifts everyone, turning rivalry into fuel.Looking ahead, Mason maps an ambitious 2026: sharpening for the USATF Half in Atlanta, testing range at the Boston Marathon, mixing mountain classics like Big Alta and Gorge, and stepping into the unknown at Speedgoat 50K to build muscular endurance and dial nutrition. He'll chase a WMRA team spot at Sunapee and aim for an Olympic Trials qualifier at CIM, answering the bigger question of how fast a sub-ultra mountain runner needs to be now. We close with a candid look at free agency—why sponsorship timing is tricky, what autonomy enables, and how to keep betting on yourself when the budget says camp and the goals say compete.If this conversation moved you, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves mountain running, and leave a quick review so more listeners can find these stories. Your support helps us bring you deeper conversations with the athletes shaping the sport.Follow Mason on IG - @mcoppi44Interested in Working with Mason as a Coach ? @hellotorunningFollow James on IG - @jameslauriello Follow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_pod

Send us a textMoney is moving up the mountain, and the Northeast is ready for it. We sit down with Tom Hooper of 603 Endurance to unpack how a new partnership with Marathon Sports unlocks bigger prize purses, stronger production, and a smarter sponsor model that gives each race its own brand identity. Sunapee Scramble returns as the U.S. Mountain Running Championship with a $30,000 purse from Brooks and Team USA selection on the line. Loon Mountain leans into its legendary Upper Walking Boss with $20,000 backed by Darn Tough and likely more on the way. Ragged brings a three-day stage race and a $30,000 purse from Altra, while Cranmore gets fresh momentum tied to a new trail-forward retail hub in North Conway.We go inside the business: why retail distribution changes the ROI for brands, how prize money can reshape athlete contracts, and whether this surge signals a sustainable path or a temporary splash. We talk logistics and legacy—permitting realities in New England, course character across Sunapee, Loon, Cranmore, Kismet, and Ragged—and the growing pipeline from NCAA track and cross-country to the mountains. If you care about the sport's future, you'll want the full take on appearance fees, what elites owe in promotion, and the rising urgency of credible anti-doping as purses climb.This is a candid, ground-level look at how trail running grows up without losing its edge: steep grades, slick roots, and real money on the line. Hit play, share it with a friend who loves mountain running, and leave a quick review so more people can find the show. Your feedback keeps these conversations going and helps the sport take its next step.Follow Tom Hooper - @tomhooper603Follow Six03 Endurance - @six03enduranceRegister for the Sunapee Scramble - SUNAPEERegister for the Loon Mountain Race - LOONRegister for the Ragged 75 Stage Race & 50K - RAGGEDFollow James on IG - @jameslauriello Follow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_pod

Jeana Newbern is here from the Lake Sunapee Region VNA and Hospice as we talk about the Thriving Through the Ages series happening in Wilmot.  This is a great series that you can attend one or all of the weeks. 

Jeana Newbern from Lake Sunapee Region VNA and Hospice is here as we talk about their Christmas gift program, the good day respite program, Christmas shopping and more.

From the Lake Sunapee Region VNA and Hospice, Jeana Newbern and Jim Culhane, President & CEO, are here as we talk about the insurance exchange being open, changes in insurance in New Hampshire this year, paying attention & doing your research in regard to what plan to buy, the Day of Rememberance and more.

Jeana Newbern is here from the Lake Sunapee Region VNA and Hospice as we talk about the Hospice event later this month, insurance deadlines, looking for volunteers, grief support and more.

Jeana Newbern from the Lake Sunapee Region VNA and Hospice is here as we talk about the return of the Hospice Celebration Dinner, which will be held in Newport.  As well as the gear up for the Kearsarge Kids Christmas Program.  Plus Jeana is a first time Grandmother!  So we find out how her newest family addition is doing.

We're getting into perfect biking weather, and in just a couple of weeks, Winchester's Marlowe Foundation hopes you'll join them for a very special ride. They're biking from Winchester up to Lake Sunapee, New Hampshire, all to raise money for some local non-profits doing important work with people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. Stephen Roge, Co-Founder of the Marlowe Foundation, shares their story with Nichole and explains how you can take part.

Jeana Newbern is here from the Lake Sunapee Region VNA and Hospice.  We talk about the big accomplishment they were awarded regarding patient services, upcoming events, the Renaissance Shop, and more.  Plus she talks about becoming a grandmother soon, what the baby's name will be, and her parents naming her Jeana instead of Gina.  haha.  

This podcast and article are free, but a lot of The Storm lives behind a paywall. I wish I could make everything available to everyone, but an article like this one is the result of 30-plus hours of work. Please consider supporting independent ski journalism with an upgrade to a paid Storm subscription. You can also sign up for the free tier below.WhoRob Katz, Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, Vail ResortsRecorded onAugust 8, 2025About Vail ResortsVail Resorts owns and operates 42 ski areas in North America, Australia, and Europe. In order of acquisition:The company's Epic Pass delivers skiers unlimited access to all of these ski areas, plus access to a couple dozen partner resorts:Why I interviewed himHow long do you suppose Vail Resorts has been the largest ski area operator by number of resorts? From how the Brobots prattle on about the place, you'd think since around the same time the Mayflower bumped into Plymouth Rock. But the answer is 2018, when Vail surged to 18 ski areas – one more than number two Peak Resorts. Vail wasn't even a top-five operator until 2007, when the company's five resorts landed it in fifth place behind Powdr's eight and 11 each for Peak, Boyne, and Intrawest. Check out the year-by-year resort operator rankings since 2000:Kind of amazing, right? For decades, Vail, like Aspen, was the owner of some great Colorado ski areas and nothing more. There was no reason to assume it would ever be anything else. Any ski company that tried to get too big collapsed or surrendered. Intrawest inflated like a balloon then blew up like a pinata, ejecting trophies like Mammoth, Copper, and Whistler before straggling into the Alterra refugee camp with a half dozen survivors. American Skiing Company (ASC) united eight resorts in 1996 and was 11 by the next year and was dead by 2007. Even mighty Aspen, perhaps the brand most closely associated with skiing in American popular culture, had abandoned a nearly-two-decade experiment in owning ski areas outside of Pitkin County when it sold Blackcomb and Fortress Mountains in 1986 and Breckenridge the following year.But here we are, with Vail Resorts, improbably but indisputably the largest operator in skiing. How did Vail do this when so many other operators had a decades-long head start? And failed to achieve sustainability with so many of the same puzzle pieces? Intrawest had Whistler. ASC owned Heavenly. Booth Creek, a nine-resort upstart launched in 1996 by former Vail owner George Gillett, had Northstar. The obvious answer is the 2008 advent of the Epic Pass, which transformed the big-mountain season pass from an expensive single-mountain product that almost no one actually needed to a cheapo multi-mountain passport that almost anyone could afford. It wasn't a new idea, necessarily, but the bargain-skiing concept had never been attached to a mountain so regal as Vail, with its sprawling terrain and amazing high-speed lift fleet and Colorado mystique. A multimountain pass had never come with so little fine print – it really was unlimited, at all these great mountains, all the time - but so many asterisks: better buy now, because pretty soon skiing Christmas week is going to cost more than your car. And Vail was the first operator to understand, at scale, that almost everyone who skis at Vail or Beaver Creek or Breckenridge skied somewhere else first, and that the best way to recruit these travelers to your mountain rather than Deer Valley or Steamboat or Telluride was to make the competition inconvenient by bundling the speedbump down the street with the Alpine fantasy across the country.Vail Resorts, of course, didn't do anything. Rob Katz did these things. And yes, there was a great and capable team around him. But it's hard to ignore the fact that all of these amazing things started happening shortly after Katz's 2006 CEO appointment and stopped happening around the time of his 2021 exit. Vail's stock price: from $33.04 on Feb. 28, 2006 to $354.76 to Nov. 1, 2021. Epic Pass sales: from zero to 2.1 million. Owned resort portfolio: from five in three states to 37 in 15 states and three countries. Epic Pass portfolio: from zero ski areas to 61. The company's North American skier visits: from 6.3 million for the 2005-06 ski season to 14.9 million in 2020-21. Those same VR metrics after three-and-a-half years under his successor, Kirsten Lynch: a halving of the stock price to $151.50 on May 27, 2025, her last day in charge; a small jump to 2.3 million Epic Passes sold for 2024-25 (but that marked the product's first-ever unit decline, from 2.4 million the previous winter); a small increase to 42 owned resorts in 15 states and four countries; a small increase to 65 ski areas accessible on the Epic Pass; and a rise to 16.9 million North American skier visits (actually a three percent slump from the previous winter and the company's second consecutive year of declines, as overall U.S. skier visits increased 1.6 percent after a poor 2023-24).I don't want to dismiss the good things Lynch did ($20-an-hour minimum wage; massively impactful lift upgrades, especially in New England; a best-in-class day pass product; a better Pet Rectangle app), or ignore the fact that Vail's 2006-to-2019 trajectory would have been impossible to replicate in a world that now includes the Ikon Pass counterweight, or understate the tense community-resort relationships that boiled under Katz's do-things-and-apologize-later-maybe leadership style. But Vail Resorts became an impossible-to-ignore globe-spanning goliath not because it collected great ski areas, but because a visionary leader saw a way to transform a stale, weather-dependent business into a growing, weather-agnostic(-ish) one.You may think that “visionary” is overstating it, that merely “transformational” would do. But I don't think I appreciated, until the rise of social media, how deeply cynical America had become, or the seemingly outsized proportion of people so eager to explain why new ideas were impossible. Layer, on top of this, the general dysfunction inherent to corporate environments, which can, without constant schedule-pruning, devolve into pseudo-summits of endless meetings, in which over-educated and well-meaning A+ students stamped out of elite university assembly lines spend all day trotting between conference rooms taking notes they'll never look at and trying their best to sound brilliant but never really accomplishing anything other than juggling hundreds of daily Slack and email messages. Perhaps I am the cynical one here, but my experience in such environments is that actually getting anything of substance done with a team of corporate eggheads is nearly impossible. To be able to accomplish real, industry-wide, impactful change in modern America, and to do so with a corporate bureaucracy as your vehicle, takes a visionary.Why now was a good time for this interviewAnd the visionary is back. True, he never really left, remaining at the head of Vail's board of directors for the duration of Lynch's tenure. But the board of directors doesn't have to explain a crappy earnings report on the investor conference call, or get yelled at on CNBC, or sit in the bullseye of every Saturday morning liftline post on Facebook.So we'll see, now that VR is once again and indisputably Katz's company, whether Vail's 2006-to-2021 rise from fringe player to industry kingpin was an isolated case of right-place-at-the-right-time first-mover big-ideas luck or the masterwork of a business musician blending notes of passion, aspiration, consumer pocketbook logic, the mystique of irreplaceable assets, and defiance of conventional industry wisdom to compose a song that no one can stop singing. Will Katz be Steve Jobs returning to Apple and re-igniting a global brand? Or MJ in a Wizards jersey, his double threepeat with the Bulls untarnished but his legacy otherwise un-enhanced at best and slightly diminished at worst?I don't know. I lean toward Jobs, remaining aware that the ski industry will never achieve the scale of the Pet Rectangle industry. But Vail Resorts owns 42 ski areas out of like 6,000 on the planet, and only about one percent of them is associated with the Epic Pass. Even if Vail grew all of these metrics tenfold, it would still own just a fraction of the global ski business. Investors call this “addressable market,” meaning the size of your potential customer base if you can make them aware of your existence and convince them to use your services, and Vail's addressable market is far larger than the neighborhood it now occupies.Whether Vail can get there by deploying its current operating model is irrelevant. Remember when Amazon was an online bookstore and Netflix a DVD-by-mail outfit? I barely do either, because visionary leaders (Jeff Bezos, Reed Hastings) shaped these companies into completely different things, tapping a rapidly evolving technological infrastructure capable of delivering consumers things they don't know they need until they realize they can't live without them. Like never going into a store again or watching an entire season of TV in one night. Like the multimountain ski pass.Being visionary is not the same thing as being omniscient. Amazon's Fire smartphone landed like a bag of sand in a gastank. Netflix nearly imploded after prematurely splitting its DVD and digital businesses in 2011. Vail's decision to simultaneously chop 2021-22 Epic Pass prices by 20 percent and kill its 2020-21 digital reservation system landed alongside labor shortages, inflation, and global supply chain woes, resulting in a season of inconsistent operations that may have turned a generation off to the company. Vail bullied Powdr into selling Park City and Arapahoe Basin into leaving the Epic Pass and Colorado's state ski trade association into having to survive without four (then five) of its biggest brands. The company alienated locals everywhere, from Stowe (traffic) to Sunapee (same) to Ohio (truncated seasons) to Indiana (same) to Park City (everything) to Whistler (same) to Stevens Pass (just so many people man). The company owns 99 percent of the credit for the lift-tickets-brought-to-you-by-Tiffany pricing structure that drives the popular perception that skiing is a sport accessible only to people who rent out Yankee Stadium for their dog's birthday party.We could go on, but the point is this: Vail has messed up in the past and will mess up again in the future. You don't build companies like skyscrapers, straight up from ground to sky. You build them, appropriately for Vail, like mountains, with an earthquake here and an eruption there and erosion sometimes and long stable periods when the trees grow and the goats jump around on the rocks and nothing much happens except for once in a while a puma shows up and eats Uncle Toby. Vail built its Everest by clever and novel and often ruthless means, but in doing so made a Balkanized industry coherent, mainstreamed the ski season pass, reshaped the consumer ski experience around adventure and variety, united the sprawling Park City resorts, acknowledged the Midwest as a lynchpin ski region, and forced competitors out of their isolationist stupor and onto the magnificent-but-probably-nonexistent-if-not-for-the-existential-need-to-compete-with Vail Ikon, Indy, and Mountain Collective passes.So let's not confuse the means for the end, or assume that Katz, now 58 and self-assured, will act with the same brash stop-me-if-you-can bravado that defined his first tenure. I mean, he could. But consumers have made it clear that they have alternatives, communities have made it clear that they have ways to stop projects out of spite, Alterra has made it clear that empire building is achieved just as well through ink as through swords, and large independents such as Jackson Hole have made it clear that the passes that were supposed to be their doom instead guaranteed indefinite independence via dependable additional income streams. No one's afraid of Vail anymore.That doesn't mean the company can't grow, can't surprise us, can't reconfigure the global ski jigsaw puzzle in ways no one has thought of. Vail has brand damage to repair, but it's repairable. We're not talking about McDonald's here, where the task is trying to convince people that inedible food is delicious. We're talking about Vail Mountain and Whistler and Heavenly and Stowe – amazing places that no one needs convincing are amazing. What skiers do need to be convinced of is that Vail Resorts is these ski areas' best possible steward, and that each mountain can be part of something much larger without losing its essence.You may be surprised to hear Katz acknowledge as much in our conversation. You will probably be surprised by a lot of things he says, and the way he projects confidence and optimism without having to fully articulate a vision that he's probably still envisioning. It's this instinctual lean toward the unexpected-but-impactful that powered Vail's initial rise and will likely reboot the company. Perhaps sooner than we expect.What we talked aboutThe CEO job feels “both very familiar and very new at the same time”; Vail Resorts 2025 versus Vail Resorts 2006; Ikon competition means “we have to get better”; the Epic Friends program that replaces Buddy Tickets: 50 percent off plus skiers can apply that cost to next year's Epic Pass; simplifying the confusing; “we're going to have to get a little more creative and a little more aggressive” when it comes to lift ticket pricing; why Vail will “probably always have a window ticket”; could we see lower lift ticket prices?; a response to lower-than-expected lift ticket sales in 2024-25; “I think we need to elevate the resort brands themselves”; thoughts on skier-visit drops; why Katz returned as CEO; evolving as a leader; a morale check for a company “that was used to winning” but had suffered setbacks; getting back to growth; competing for partners and “how do we drive thoughtful growth”; is Vail an underdog now?; Vail's big advantage; reflecting on the 20 percent 2021 Epic Pass price cut and whether that was the right decision; is the Epic Pass too expensive or too cheap?; reacting to the first ever decline in Epic Pass unit sales numbers; why so many mountains are unlimited on Epic Local; “who are you going to kick out of skiing” if you tighten access?; protecting the skier experience; how do you make skiers say “wow?”; defending Vail's ongoing resort leadership shuffle; and why the volume of Vail's lift upgrades slowed after 2022's Epic Lift Upgrade.What I got wrong* I said that the Epic Pass now offered access to “64 or 65” ski areas, but I neglected to include the six new ski areas that Vail partnered with in Austria for the 2025-26 ski season. The correct number of current Epic Pass partners is 71 (see chart above). * I said that Vail Resorts' skier visits declined by 1.5 percent from the 2023-24 to 2024-25 winters, and that national skier visits grew by three percent over that same timeframe. The numbers are actually reversed: Vail's skier visits slumped by approximately three percent last season, while national visits increased by 1.7 percent, per the National Ski Areas Association.* I said that the $1,429 Ikon Pass cost “40% more” than the $799 Epic Local – but I was mathing on the fly and I mathed dumb. The actual increase from Epic Local to Ikon is roughly 79 percent.* I claimed that Park City Mountain Resort was charging $328 for a holiday week lift ticket when it was “30 percent-ish open” and “the surrounding resorts were 70-ish percent open.” Unfortunately, I was way off on the dollar amount and the timeframe, as I was thinking of this X post I made on Wednesday, Jan. 8, when day-of tickets were selling for $288:* I said I didn't know what “Alterra” means. Alterra Mountain Company defines it as “a fusion of the words altitude and terrain/terra, paying homage to the mountains and communities that form the backbone of the company.”* I said that Vail's Epic Lift Upgrade was “22 or 23 lifts.” I was wrong, but the number is slippery for a few reasons. First, while I was referring specifically to Vail's 2021 announcement that 19 new lifts were inbound in 2022, the company now uses “Epic Lift Upgrade” as an umbrella term for all years' new lift installs. Second, that 2022 lift total shot up to 21, then down to 19 when Park City locals threw a fit and blocked two of them (both ultimately went to Whistler), then 18 after Keystone bulldozed an illegal access road in the high Alpine (the new lift and expansion opened the following year).Questions I wish I'd askedThere is no way to do this interview in a way that makes everyone happy. Vail is too big, and I can't talk about everything. Angry Mountain Bro wants me to focus on community, Climate Bro on the environment, Finance Bro on acquisitions and numbers, Subaru Bro on liftlines and parking lots. Too many people who already have their minds made up about how things are will come here seeking validation of their viewpoint and leave disappointed. I will say this: just because I didn't ask about something doesn't mean I wouldn't have liked to. Acquisitions and Europe, especially. But some preliminary conversations with Vail folks indicated that Katz had nothing new to say on either of these topics, so I let it go for another day.Podcast NotesOn various metrics Here's a by-the-numbers history of the Epic Pass:Here's Epic's year-by-year partner history:On the percent of U.S. skier visits that Vail accounts forWe don't know the exact percentage of U.S. skier visits belong to Vail Resorts, since the company's North American numbers include Whistler, which historically accounts for approximately 2 million annual skier visits. But let's call Vail's share of America's skier visits 25 percent-ish:On ski season pass participation in AmericaThe rise of Epic and Ikon has correlated directly with a decrease in lift ticket visits and an increase in season pass visits. Per Kotke's End-of-Season Demographic Report for 2023-24:On capital investmentSimilarly, capital investment has mostly risen over the past decade, with a backpedal for Covid. Kotke:The NSAA's preliminary numbers suggest that the 2024-25 season numbers will be $624.4 million, a decline from the previous two seasons, but still well above historic norms.On the mystery of the missing skier visitsI jokingly ask Katz for resort-by-resort skier visits in passing. Here's what I meant by that - up until the 2010-11 ski season, Vail, like all operators on U.S. Forest Service land, reported annual skier visits per ski area:And then they stopped, winning a legal argument that annual skier visits are proprietary and therefore protected from public records disclosure. Or something like that. Anyway most other large ski area operators followed this example, which mostly just serves to make my job more difficult.On that ski trip where Timberline punched out Vail in a one-on-five fightI don't want to be the Anecdote King, but in 2023 I toured 10 Mid-Atlantic ski areas the first week of January, which corresponded with a horrendous warm-up. The trip included stops at five Vail Resorts: Liberty, Whitetail, Seven Springs, Laurel, and Hidden Valley, all of which were underwhelming. Fine, I thought, the weather sucks. But then I stopped at Timberline, West Virginia:After three days of melt-out tiptoe, I was not prepared for what I found at gut-renovated Timberline. And what I found was 1,000 vertical feet of the best version of warm-weather skiing I've ever seen. Other than the trail footprint, this is a brand-new ski area. When the Perfect Family – who run Perfect North, Indiana like some sort of military operation – bought the joint in 2020, they tore out the lifts, put in a brand-new six-pack and carpet-loaded quad, installed all-new snowmaking, and gut-renovated the lodge. It is remarkable. Stunning. Not a hole in the snowpack. Coming down the mountain from Davis, you can see Timberline across the valley beside state-run Canaan Valley ski area – the former striped in white, the latter mostly barren.I skied four fast laps off the summit before the sixer shut at 4:30. Then a dozen runs off the quad. The skier level is comically terrible, beginners sprawled all over the unload, all over the green trails. But the energy is level 100 amped, and everyone I talked to raved about the transformation under the new owners. I hope the Perfect family buys 50 more ski areas – their template works.I wrote up the full trip here.On the megapass timelineI'll work on a better pass timeline at some point, but the basics are this:* 2008: Epic Pass debuts - unlimited access to all Vail Resorts* 2012: Mountain Collective debuts - 2 days each at partner resorts* 2015: M.A.X. Pass debuts - 5 days each at partner resorts, unlimited option for home resort* 2018: Ikon Pass debuts, replaces M.A.X. - 5, 7, or unlimited days at partner resorts* 2019: Indy Pass debuts - 2 days each at partner resortsOn Epic Day vs. Ikon Session I've long harped on the inadequacy of the Ikon Session Pass versus the Epic Day Pass:On Epic versus Ikon pricingEpic Passes mostly sell at a big discount to Ikon:On Vail's most recent investor conference callThis podcast conversation delivers Katz's first public statements since he hosted Vail Resorts' investor conference call on June 5. I covered that call extensively at the time:On Epic versus Ikon access tweaksAlterra tweaks Ikon Pass access for at least one or two mountains nearly every year – more than two dozen since 2020, by my count. Vail rarely makes any changes. I broke down the difference between the two in the article linked directly above this one. I ask Katz about this in the pod, and he gives us a very emphatic answer.On the Park City strikeNo reason to rehash the whole mess in Park City earlier this year. Here's a recap from The New York Times. The Storm's best contribution to the whole story was this interview with United Mountain Workers President Max Magill:On Vail's leadership shuffleI'll write more about this at some point, but if you scroll to the right on Vail's roster, you'll see the yellow highlights whenever Vail has switched a president/general manager-level employee over the past several years. It's kind of a lot. A sample from the resorts the company has owned since 2016:The Storm explores the world of lift-served skiing all year long. Join us. Get full access to The Storm Skiing Journal and Podcast at www.stormskiing.com/subscribe

Send us a textMeet Scott Klingonsmith, a rising star in the mountain running scene who's ready to take on one of America's most challenging ultramarathons. At just 20 years old, this Utah-based athlete brings fresh energy and strategic thinking to the grueling Speed Goat 50K.Scott shares his fascinating journey from dabbling in ultras to deliberately focusing on shorter trail races to build speed, and now returning to test himself against the punishing 11,000 feet of elevation gain at Speed Goat. What sets Scott apart is his methodical preparation – he's been exploring the course's notorious rocky back section that has "ruined a lot of people's races," working closely with his Hoka coach Emily Schmitz to build the specific strength needed for Speed Goat's relentless terrain.The conversation dives deep into Scott's race strategy and nutrition plan, revealing the thoughtful approach of an athlete wise beyond his years. Rather than relying on conventional gels, Scott has dialed in a liquid nutrition strategy delivering 90 grams of carbohydrates per hour, carried in a combination of waist-mounted and handheld bottles. His racing approach balances competitive ambition with practical wisdom, as he plans to maintain contact with the lead group while recognizing when to make strategic moves on the course's long descents.Coming off an impressive top-20 finish at the US Mountain Running Championships at Sunapee, Scott represents the exciting next generation of mountain runners from the Wasatch. As host James Lariello notes, Speed Goat has historically launched the careers of Utah-based trail stars like Hayden Hawks and Christian Allen – could Scott be next? Join us for this illuminating conversation that captures both the technical preparation and the infectious enthusiasm of trail running's rising talent.Follow Scott on IG - @scotty_ksmittyFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podUse code steepstuffpod for 25% off your cart at UltimateDirection.com! 

Dani and EmKay preview the Broken Arrow Ascent. This VK-like race is not only exciting for its international field, but it is also the US Team qualifier for the Vertical team at World Championships this year. Many US athletes will be doubling back from Sunapee to try to get their spots in a Team USA jersey. Kilian Jornet also highlights the field against 2 x world VK champion Patrick Kipgneno. Make sure you give this episode a listen before making your Freetrail Fantasy picks!Follow us:Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @emkaysulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠| ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@dan_yell_a⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@the_subhub_pod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Title Picture Credit: Ryan ThrowerEpisode Sponsors:Neversecond: Use code SUBHUB25 for 25% off your purchase-- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠never2.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Beekeepers Natural: Use code SUBHUB20 for 20% off your purchase-- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.beekeepersnaturals.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pit Viper:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click this link for 20% off at checkout