In this episode of HappyCast, Andrew and Stephanie sit down with Stephanie Rosebaugh to unpack an extraordinary performance at The Summit Last Person Standing, a Big’s Backyard Ultra Silver Ticket race in Texas. Stephanie ran an incredible 279 miles over 67 hours, averaging sub-50 minute loops with minimal rest — all while navigating sleep deprivation, changing weather, and the mental grind of a true last-person-standing format.

Rather than racing others, Stephanie shares how a powerful mindset shift away from comparison nearly doubled her previous LPS distance. The conversation explores flow state, nighttime running, fueling discipline, unexpected crew support, and the unique camaraderie that forms when the field dwindles down to just a few runners sharing the same hour over and over again.

The episode closes with a deeply reflective moment: choosing to step away not because her body failed, but because it felt right. It’s a conversation about endurance, self-trust, and redefining success — reminding us that sometimes the most meaningful finish isn’t about winning, but about knowing when you’ve done enough. 

The Power of Enoughness

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In this episode of HappyCast, we dive into a full, emotional, hilarious, and raw recap of the Fall Creek 100 in Tennessee — a race filled with waterfalls, scenic ridges, surprise proposals, mud, and a whole lot of internal battles.  

Stephanie is joined by Chuck Clark, who shared most of the 100 miles with her, and Race Director Scott Simcox, the creative mind behind the Fall Creek, Long Hunter, and Rim Runner races. Scott walks us through how he designs courses with intention: showcasing every overlook, waterfall, bridge, and scenic loop the park has to offer. We also learn about his volunteer-first family culture, the impact of tornado damage on trail systems, and why Fall Creek’s dorm setup might be one of the best race perks out there.

Stephanie opens up about her toughest mental race to date — calling her mom at mile 30 in tears, dealing with self-doubt from previous DNFs, navigating humidity and trail math, and experiencing her first mid-race panic attack. Chuck shares how he tried (unsuccessfully) to medicate her attitude with potatoes for 12 straight hours, why they thought they were on the verge of missing cutoffs, and how a simple reminder — “You stack these because you know you can finish them” — helped shift the energy.

We also talk crew magic, Peg’s legendary road-trip rescue, Kevin’s 50K-plus pacing effort, Mo’s volunteer hero arc, and the incredible Tennessee trail community that kept runners fed, supported, and cheerful through every loop.

It’s emotional. It’s chaotic. It’s honest. And it’s a perfect look at what makes 100-milers so transformative.

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This week on HappyCast, Stephanie sits down with returning guest Andrea Moore—fresh off an unbelievable streak of six 200-milers this year alone, including the Arizona Monster, Cocodona, Oregon 200, and the grueling Summit 200 in Colorado. Joined by guest host Rachel Moore, the conversation dives into the infamous “MonsterDona” combo, what recovery really looks like between back-to-back ultras, and the unique challenges of pushing through brain fog, altitude, and steep climbs.

Andrea opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of Oregon 200, where wildfires forced the race to stop at mile 151, reminding everyone of how unpredictable and humbling trail running can be. She also breaks down the relentless terrain of Summit 200—rocky climbs, 60% grades, and life at 13,000 feet—and what it taught her about fear, resilience, and mental strength. With wisdom like “motion is lotion” and “more fun than run,” Andrea proves why she’s one of the most inspiring figures in the ultra community.

Rachel, preparing for her very first 200 at Mammoth, brings fresh questions and reflections, while Stephanie highlights the power of women in ultrarunning and the lessons these races carry into everyday life. From crew strategies to the mental monsters we all face, this episode is a celebration of grit, community, and the wild beauty of running 200 miles.

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On the latest episode of the HappyCast, we sit down and chat with Abraham Bejil from Midland, Texas and learn about his start in ultra running, culminating in his epic undertaking of this years new-and-improved Moab 240. 

Abraham is also heavily involved with his local community, which showed during his Moab 240 adventure, with many going out to support him and share his journey, alongside the amazing charitable efforts being made towards the Midland Childrens Rehabilitation Center throughout. 

So sit back (or run vertical) and hear all about Abraham’s ultra running journey and his Moab 240 recap. 

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In this thought-provoking episode of HappyCast, co-hosts Andrew and Stephanie tackle the controversial topic of DNFs (Did Not Finish) in the running community. They delve into why DNFs are not just acceptable but sometimes the wisest decision a runner can make.

Andrew and Stephanie share their personal DNF stories, offering insight into the importance of listening to your body and mind. They discuss the fine line between pushing your limits and preserving your health, and how making the tough decision to drop can lead to future success.

The episode also features a segment on the recent Lake Murray race, highlighting the challenges faced during this muddy and rain-soaked event. Through her experience, Stephanie illustrates the significance of making smart choices under tough conditions.

Join Andrew and Stephanie as they explore the wisdom in knowing when to push forward and when to pause, reminding us that sometimes, quitting is indeed winning.

Tune in to this episode of HappyCast for a candid and heartfelt discussion that might just change your perspective on DNFs.

Correction: we misread a race update and assumed someone who finished the race originally missed an aid station cutoff. They did not! Our apologies. 

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Get ready to lace up your running shoes and join us for another episode of HappyCast! This time, we're excited to introduce you to the local running legend, Will Bryant. In this conversation, we sit down with Will to unravel the story behind his impressive running journey.

Will shares his running history, goals, and unique training philosophies that have propelled him to success in his running journey. Starting out pounding the pavement to tackling trails, his passion for the sport shines through as he takes us on a journey through his experiences.

As we delve into the discussion, we touch upon training strategies, his recent performance at the Dana Peak 100k, and Will's ambitious goal of conquering the LOViT 100. His calculated and intentional approach to training is truly inspiring and sheds light on what it takes to excel in the journey of long-distance running.

But that's not all! Co-host Andrew Marvin adds his own twist to the conversation, declaring Will as the "manliest" guest they've ever had on the podcast. He paints a picture of Will as a "silent assassin" and the "most interesting man."

Whether you're an experienced runner seeking inspiration or a newbie looking to dip your toes into the running world, this episode is a delightful blend of running wisdom and humor. Tune in to HappyCast, and let's get to know Will Bryant, the silent assassin with a passion for pounding the pavement and trails alike!

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On our latest episode of the HappyCast, we take a deep dive into the newest (and maybe hardest?) 200 miler around: The Divide 200 by Sinister Sports. Located in southern Alberta, this is the first 200 mile race in Canada, and it traverses the Great Divide and the very raw and rugged Canadian Rocky Mountains. We speak with three of the finishers about their experiences, including first time guest, Lance Parker from New York City. Lance is no stranger to challenges like this, even though this is his first 200 miler. We learn about some of the amazing things he has done recently, as well as his impressive career as a former professional soccer player, model, and coach. 

We also are joined by returning guests, Regina Massingill and Kathleen Hanley, who both completed this race together, even though this was unplanned. And yes, hallucinations were had. Including one of these guests winning “Best Hallucination” at the post-race awards! 

So join us as we explore the newest 200 around and determine if this is something that may interest you in the future!

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This week on the HappyCast, we learn that the the ‘K’ is NOT silent and are joined by the up-and-coming social media running truth teller and comedian, Michelle Knafla, better known as “FuelMyRun” on Instagram. We poke fun at anything and everything, including her UltraSignup account. Did she even know she had one? 

As a road runner that has dabbled in some trails, we pick her brain as we stroll through this fun and carefree episode, all while trying to convince her to frolic through some trails after (hopefully) doing the Boston Marathon. We also learn about some of her creative processes and what it takes to frequently put out content. 

Also, will Michelle end up pacing Andrew at one his races next year? Just think of the hilarious content she could create just from that! 

Michelle is also a running, fitness, and marketing coach, so check her out sometime.

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Wes Plate is back on the latest episode of the HappyCast! We catch up with Wes and his recent epic adventures, including his most recent appearance at the inaugural Oregon 200 put on by GoBeyond. We learn all about this race, including Wes’ experience and his thoughts on it for those interested in it going forward. 

Wes may have gotten a 200 mile PR at this race, but it sounds like he has even more incredible things up ahead. We find out more about Wes’ recent foray into race directing, including putting on his first 100 miler with some friends earlier this year, and his hopes for race directing in the future. And his next race? How about a fatass 200 miler on road around the streets of Washington. We learn more about this one as well. 

Wes is a man that is actively staying busy, so we definitely recommend keeping an eye out on his future endeavors. And don’t forget to check out his beautifully put-together videos that he creates for his racing experiences on his YouTube! 

And finally, what’s a step above being a mid-pack elite? Because we believe he has graduated from this distinction.

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In this episode of HappyCast, we lace up our running shoes and dive into the world of ultra running with our spirited guest, Callie Vinson. But this isn't your typical running podcast; we're getting real, casual, and funny as we explore Callie's incredible journey and her Instagram adventures.

Join us with Callie as we peel back the layers of her story. From her first steps into the world of ultra running to her Instagram escapades that keep us all entertained, Callie shares her experiences with humor and heart.

We dig into a topic close to Callie's heart - Body Positivity in Ultra Running. It's not just about covering the miles; it's about embracing and celebrating your body every step of the way.

As we traverse the trails of conversation, you can expect plenty of laughs, memorable anecdotes, and some seriously refreshing perspectives on what it means to be an ultra runner. Callie's positivity and stubbornness shine through as she reminds us that you don't have to be a superhuman to tackle these epic races - you just have to be yourself, and maybe throw in a dash of quirkiness.

So, whether you're a seasoned ultra marathoner or just thinking about dipping your toe into the world of long-distance running, this episode has something for everyone. It's all about celebrating the quirks, the quads, and the incredible community that makes ultra running a one-of-a-kind journey.

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Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping ride in this week's episode of Stagecoach Line 100-Mile. Join us as we lace up our running shoes and hit the trail with the remarkable Stephanie Leake, who takes us on a thrilling journey from Flagstaff to the iconic Grand Canyon.

Stephanie's recounting of her recent Stagecoach Line 100-Mile race is nothing short of awe-inspiring. As she shares her experience, you'll be on the edge of your seat. From the starting line in Flagstaff to the awe-inspiring vistas of the Grand Canyon, Stephanie paints a vivid picture of the challenges, triumphs, and the unexpected encounters that defined her race.

One highlight you won't want to miss is Stephanie's incredible Bighorn Sheep encounter. Hear firsthand how she navigated this unique and unforgettable moment in the wilderness. But that's not all—Stephanie's story takes an exhilarating turn as she describes passing the leading female runner and feeling the chase on her heels.

This episode is more than a tale of a 100-mile race; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the indomitable will to push boundaries. Whether you're an experienced ultra-runner or simply an enthusiast of extraordinary stories, Stephanie's journey will leave you inspired and in awe of the beauty and challenge of ultramarathons.

Tune in and join us as we celebrate Stephanie's incredible adventure, where determination, wildlife encounters, and the pursuit of excellence converge on the trail from Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon. Get ready for a podcast episode that'll make your heart race and your spirit soar.

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Join the HappyCast team as they gather around the mic to sift through a treasure trove of tips and strategies from their engaged Facebook community. These aren't just your average running tips—these are battle-tested nuggets of wisdom from real runners who've crossed the 100-mile finish line.

Our hosts provide their own seasoned advice, drawing from their experiences and journeys in the world of long-distance running. Together, they create a vibrant tapestry of advice, covering everything from nutrition and hydration to mental fortitude and recovery.

As they delve into the comments and stories shared by their passionate listeners, you'll discover a rich tapestry of experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Whether you're an aspiring ultramarathoner or simply curious about the dedication and determination required to undertake such an epic feat, this episode has something for everyone.

Tune in to HappyCast as we celebrate the relentless spirit of runners, the joy of shared knowledge, and the incredible journey of preparing for a 100-mile adventure. Get ready to be inspired and empowered to reach new heights in your running pursuits.

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On this episode of the HappyCast, we are joined by recent Leadville 100 finisher (survivor?), Regina Massingill, and her main pacer and crew support, Starla García, who has quite the impressive resume of her own. These two had quite the emotional adventure during the “race across the sky”. Coming straight from flatland Texas, Regina battled the altitude, nausea, Hope Pass, llamas, and yes…cutoffs. 

This episode goes into detail about the harrowing last “17 hours of torture”, as Regina was fighting cutoffs that got tighter and tighter. At one point in the race, she was tied for last place, and all hope seemed lost. Finally, it  appeared that cutoffs finally got her. After running for over 85 miles, was her journey finally over? Was this her first DNF?  Did Andrew finally have his perfect intro? 

Find out on this epic episode of the HappyCast! 

Regina Massingill’s IG

Starla Garcia’s Dietician IG

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This week on the HappyCast, Stephanie sits down with returning guest Liesl Standish and her pacer, Julie Benoit, to dive into Liesl’s unforgettable journey at the Run Rabbit Run 100. From the moment the weather turned to rain, hail, and near-freezing temps, this race tested every ounce of grit and determination. Liesl shares what it felt like to shuffle through the night wrapped in a space blanket, the toll of soaked gloves and cold hands, and how sheer perseverance pushed her forward when quitting seemed like the only option.

Julie offers the unique perspective of both a first-time pacer and volunteer at one of the most chaotic aid stations, where even elite runners dropped due to the brutal conditions. She describes the surreal beauty of fog-filled valleys at midnight, the mental shift of supporting someone else’s race, and how pacing revealed lessons she’ll carry into her own running journey. Their stories highlight the raw reality of ultrarunning: it’s not just about speed, but about resilience, adaptability, and the power of showing up when things get tough.

Beyond the race details, the conversation dives into community, motherhood, and what it means to set big goals while balancing real life. From hallucinations of “men in the woods” to the comfort of ramen at a freezing aid station, this episode captures the highs, lows, and lasting impact of Run Rabbit Run. Whether you’re chasing your first ultra, dreaming of a hundred miler, or simply inspired by stories of resilience, Liesl and Julie remind us that finishing is often the greatest victory of all.

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Continuing right where we left off, we push on and explore the second half of Jason Hanley’s Bigfoot 200 adventure! And yes, things finally do take a turn. Mountain Lions? The “Green Tunnel”? What exactly is a Klickitat? And you know what we all like after running 190+ miles of trail? Soft, beautiful road for the last 15+ miles to end the race.

After concluding his epic adventure, we then dive into Jason’s new adventure goods company, Wildsense. We talk about its background, its mission, and how he handled launching this venture while training for Bigfoot.

We highly recommend checking this awesome company out and showing some support.

https://wildsensegoods.com

You can also follow Wildsense on social media networks such as Instagram and Facebook. 

Congratulations, Jason, on an amazing race and for the launch of 
your new company, Wildsense!

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On this episode of the HappyCast, we have a two-parter with the owner of Wildsense Goods and recent Bigfoot 200 conquerer, Jason Hanley! 

Hailing from Houston, TX, we speak to Jason about his preparation for Bigfoot 200, the logistics, and his crewing plan. In part one and the beginning of part two, Jason goes in depth with the race section by section. 

Part one goes over his preparation and his experience with Bigfoot 200 from the start until shortly after 100 miles in. 

And shortly after this, part two will be released, covering the remainder of his race, followed by a discussion about his new venture, Wildsense Goods. 

So strap in and let’s take a ride through the Cascades and go ‘squatch hunting!

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In this week's captivating episode of the HappyCast, we're delving into an essential topic from an exciting angle. Join us as we bring you an enlightening conversation with a very special guest, Lauren Glaze. If her name sounds familiar, it's because she's the wife of the dynamic Andy Glaze, who graced our show just a couple of weeks ago.

Hosted by Stephanie, Liesl, and Kirstin, this episode is all about gaining fresh insights into the fitness world through the lens of the incredible women who navigate it. Lauren, a fitness enthusiast herself, provides a unique perspective on the  challenges, and triumphs.

Together, our spirited hosts and Lauren engage in an open and candid dialogue, sharing personal experiences, professional insights, and thought-provoking anecdotes. With their signature blend of warmth and wit, they touch upon a variety of key topics, including body image, empowerment, self-care, and breaking barriers.

Whether you're a seasoned fitness guru or simply curious about the world of wellness, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Expect to come away with a deeper understanding of the female journey in the fitness realm and a renewed appreciation for the power of diverse voices.

Tune in to the HappyCast as we celebrate strength, resilience, and the beauty of embracing your own path within the fitness landscape. Join us for an engaging discussion that will leave you motivated and eager to conquer your own goals, no matter where you are on your fitness journey.

Get ready to be uplifted and empowered—this episode is a must-listen! And can you spot the little furry cameo?

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This week on the HappyCast, we are joined by some local Texas trail running enthusiasts who decided to venture outside of their comfort zone and take on some mountains - the Never Summer 100k, to be exact, which is one of the toughest mountain races around. Regina Massingill and Kathleen Hanley from Houston, and Kevin Halliburton from DFW join us to discuss their strategies for taking on this behemoth northern Colorado race. Combined, these three individuals have an average elevation of that of the top of a city parking garage to train with. So how did they prepare for this race? 

These three have some pretty epic stories from the race, as well as a literal last minute victory when all hoped seemed lost for one of these individuals. Stick around to hear the emotional recap of a beautiful DFL finish. What would you do when you had zero minutes to spare at an aid station? 

Congratulations to these three for an amazing race, and thank you to Gnar Runners for an unforgettable experience. And finally, congratulations to Kathleen’s husband, Jason Hanley of Wildsense Goods, on finishing Bigfoot 200!

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On this episode of the HappyCast, we sit down with the man who runs more weekly miles than the average American drives, Andrew Glaze. For those of you who don’t know, Andrew Glaze has run 100+ miles a week for 178 straight weeks and counting. But it didn’t start off pretty, as we learn about his struggles before the streak, and his ability to create this incredible mindset that led to his whole “Smile, or you’re doing it wrong” way of life. Andrew has also built up quite the following online and has grown into a very influential and motivating social media influencer. We hear more about his ups and downs during this journey, and what he hopes to accomplish in the future.  Oh, and the man also does some pretty ridiculous amount of racing, including his epic “CocoCanyons 350” earlier this year. 

Also, will he be making an appearance in north Texas for a race at the end of the year? Well, let’s find out together!

So strap in and maybe share some of your dinner miles with us as we pick the mind of the one-of-a-kind, Andy Glaze! 

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For this episode of the HappyCast, we talk all things Tahoe 200 with returning guest Garren Hill, who is also joined by the King of Knoxville himself, and the Tennessee 100 mile record holder, Sho Gray. They both recently completed this behemoth of a race held by Destination Trail, which faced additional challenges such as the heat AND snow after the start date had to be moved to July, so we were all excited to hear their experience with this race.

We also learn a little more about Sho and his amazing and impressive running background, which includes the best possible way to DNF a race that honestly puts all of us to shame. Then, we hear all about Garren’s and Sho’s journey across Tahoe, which includes hallucinations that rival that of a George R.R. Martin novel, mythical dragon knights, toilet naps, betraying others (not once, but twice), their descent into darkness and fully succumbing to their delusions, the power of tuna mayonnaise rice balls, and EVERYONE'S collective love for TOPO Athletics. This is a jam-packed episode, so trap in!

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After you, the crew voted and narrowed down the Elite Eight to the Final Four, we review each of the races and emerge with our final two races. However, we can't come to an agreement as to what should be the winner. This is where we turn to you, the crew again to help us decide, Italy or California.

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With the heat at full blast here in Texas, we discuss ways in which we handle the heat. What race strategies as well as some training tips. We also talk about our temporary blindness due to the heat, due to the sweat.

Stay cool, run responsibly...

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This week we sit down with Brent Heady, who recently had an epic golden hour finish at Western States 100 with barely five minutes to spare. We relive his experience, section by section and get some perspective and also hear from his crew, Brent, Audi, Amy, Darren, Kathy, John and Catherine,  and hear their experiences as well. What an epic journey!

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This week we catch up with Stephanie, who recently ran the Yeti 100 in Washington State. We learn about her experience with this rails to trails 100 miler and why considers it one of the harder ones she's attempted. 

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After several years away from race directing, Rob Goyen is rising back into action with his new company, Rise Racing Co. In this episode, Andrew and Stephanie catch up with one of HappyCast’s very first guests to hear how Rob has spent his time away, why he chose to step back, and what ultimately pulled him back into the trail running scene. From his early days building Trail Racing Over Texas (TROT) to the ideas now fueling Rise Racing, Rob reflects on the lessons learned and the community he never stopped loving.

Rob shares candidly about the challenges of directing races at scale, the toll it took on his family life, and the loss that weighed heavily on his decision to pause. But his passion for creating unique experiences and building trail running community never faded. Now, with Rise Racing Co, he’s bringing that energy back—this time with a sharper focus on creativity, connection, and long-term vision. Listeners will hear about his inspirations, his vision for new kinds of events, and even a few surprising ideas that push the boundaries of what a trail race can be.

Whether you know Rob from the legendary Franklin Mountains race, the infamous sheet-cake incident, or his knack for dreaming up off-the-wall challenges, this conversation is packed with stories, humor, and insight. Tune in to hear how Rise Racing Co plans to carve its place in the Texas trail running landscape, why Rob believes community is at the heart of every finish line, and what it means to truly rise back into action.

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Recently, our very own Stephanie Leake has been participating as a blind guide for local DFW runners. We sit down with Ricky Castaneda, an athlete she guides, as well as Chief Guiding Officer, Cheyenne Meyer. They give us a view into the world of blind sports, from running triathlons to blind baseball and much more.

Links
U.S. Association of Blind Athletes

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This week we sit down with Ashley Forshey. She recently directed her first race, at Ricochet's Riot in Kileen Texas. We learn about her running journey and what brought her to Texas, as well as what it's like to race direct for the first time and what inspired her to start it.

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

This week we have the ever-so-fun John Farris join us once again to recap his amazing experience overseas in Scotland, where he undertook one of the more difficult footraces in the world: the Cape Wrath Ultra. We hear about his epic trek across the Highlands, and pepper him with questions that he can only answer with his Farris Flair. Give this one a listen, especially if you’ve always wanted to run through bogs and swarms or midges. 

And as always, a big language warning with this own. And no, we aren’t sponsored by Trojan. But at this rate, John may get us the often sought after sponsorship. 

Enjoy, and maybe you, too, can become the next trail running highlander.

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

After being inspired by Loop the Lake and Judgement Day, Stephanie and Dylan thought up  an adventure run that connects five nature trails in South Dallas. Unlike Judgement Day, they ran from trail to trail and the goal was to finish in under 12 hours. This week, we get to hear about how how it went as well as critiques for future runs.

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

This week we hear about two very different crewing experiences. Stephanie was down in Florida crewing Brandy Ray for the Keys 100 miler, and Andrew traveled in the opposite direction to the Jemez mountains near Los Alamos, New Mexico.

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

For our first ever bonus Q&A episode, Andrew is joined by Nick Petterson as they briefly recap Nick’s experience with Cocodona and then answer some questions that were sent by the community. Hopefully this supplementary episode provides some much needed information for those wanting to do their first ever 200 miler, or just wanting to tackle Cocodona for the first time. This episode offers two perspectives, covering information from the back of the pack, to the front. 

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

Continuing where we left off last week with the Cocodona recap, Andrew concludes his epic journey in part two. As he rises out of the desert into beautiful Sedona and up onto the piney forests of the Cococino plateau, Andrew recaps the highs and lows as he marches his way towards Flagstaff, including what he describes as the lowest and worst moment he has experienced thus far in his trail running career. Hear why the Elden mountain ascent became such a physically and emotionally challenging moment.

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

Cocodona 250 has quickly built a reputation as one of the longest and most difficult races in the country - but with its generous cutoffs, it’s an experience that many will be capable of undertaking. 

On the first part this epic Cocodona 250 recap, Andrew goes in-depth for each section of the race up until the halfway point around mile 126. From the Bradshaw Mountains to Mingus Mountain and it’s treacherous descent into Jerome, Andrew talks about the terrain, environmental challenges, and other physical and mental roadblocks that this race provides. 

Is the first 50k really the toughest 50k in the country? How about the first 100k? Just how rocky and hot is this course? These are just a few questions that have been attached to this race since it’s inaugural year in 2021. We hope these next two episodes will be able to address most questions, as well as provide that in-depth overview of the entire course. 

And just how many mishaps and hilarious situations does Andrew find himself in during this race? You though he would’ve learned after Moab…

Stay tuned for part two next week, as we end the recap and answer many of your questions! 

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

With Dylan on the road and Andrew on the trail at Cocodona, Stephanie and Ben Bridgeman sit down with Nancy Marks to talk about her many 100 milers. We find out just how much she loves to push herself. We also get a surprise live update from Matt Leake about the condition of Andrew and Andrea as well as the conditions of the race.

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

This we site down with local runners, Liesl and Matt to discuss the Coyote Trail Run that takes place at Cleburne State Park. We get different perspectives from one of tougher local races, and Andrew calls in from the road on his way to Cocodona 250.

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

Sometimes the hardest part of ultrarunning isn’t the miles—it’s just getting an episode recorded. After multiple attempts, the HappyCast crew finally sits down with Lisa Decker and Shashi Reddy to share their stories from two of Laz Lake’s infamous journey races: Vol State and Heart of the South. Both are 300+ mile tests of grit, resourcefulness, and pure stubbornness, and their experiences run the gamut from roadside naps to navigating storms and heat rash with Dollar General t-shirts.

Lisa takes us through the camaraderie of her “trauma bonded trash panda” crew at Vol State, while Shashi details the unpredictable game of Heart of the South—where runners don’t even know the starting line until the night before. Between road angels, the legendary “meat wagon” driver who refuses to let you quit, and the strange joys of eating soggy Subway sandwiches mid-race, the stories capture the feral, unpredictable beauty of these journey runs.

Since those finishes, Lisa and Shashi haven’t slowed down. Lisa went straight into the brutal heat of the Habanero 100, earning her first sub-30 finish, while Shashi found his way back to the trails at the 6-0 Ranch 50K. With both eyeing even bigger challenges ahead, this conversation is equal parts hilarious, inspiring, and a testament to what happens when runners embrace the chaos of the road.

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

Coming off of running 100 miles at the Born to Run Ultra in California, we sit down with Mannie Zubia for whom this was his first 100 mile race. Stephanie and Mannie reminisce about the race and we learn a bit about Mannie's running journey.

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

This week we celebrate our 50th episode and one year anniversary by listing 50 things we've learned, stuff about the show and more! Thank you to those of you who have listened over this past year.

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

With Cocodona 250 less than a month away, we check in with Andrew to see where his head is at and some of his preparation. We are joined by Andrea Moore who recently ran scouted out sections of the trail. We will be following them closely during their 250 mile journey.

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

We are bringing the Trail Race Showdown back!! For this week we have created a bracket of 16 trail races to pit races against each other in order to find the perfect trail race. To keep us accountable, these have are races we  actually think we can finish. The stakes...whichever race wins the bracket, the nominator must register and run the race they nominated. This should be fund since a handful of them are outside international.

Be sure to check our Facebook page to find out the results and take part in voting.

Be sure to subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and we always appreciate you leaving a good rate and review. Join the Facebook Group and follow us on Instagram and check out our website for the more episodes, posts and merchandise coming soon.

Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

After spending three days in the mountains of Northern Arkansas Stephanie tells us about her experience this year at Three Days of Syllamo after meeting her goal of running all three days. We are also joined this week by Jeremiah Nemechek who has run Three Days multiple times, placing 6th for all three days. With this, we get multiple perspectives on this little known gem in the Ozarks.

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

This week we sit down with DFW runners Kathy Beck, Pam Diann, Peg Hall and Courtney Nall who recently ran the Moab: Run the Rocks. This is a stage race put on by TransRockies in Moab, UT. We hear all about their experiences from each day as well as a little out the TransRockies community as a whole.

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

And just like that, we’re back at it with some extraordinary deep dives. This week on the HappyCast, we are joined by Texas running legend, Kenneth Anderlitch, and a his partner in crime (and very talented up-and-comer, if you can even call her that) Rachel Moore!

Kenneth recently ran across the ENTIRE state of Texas, and did so in record time. We learn more about his run, and the even more remarkable cause that sparked his amazing journey across the state. Rachel played a huge part in supporting Kenneth, both before, during, and after his run. We also learn about her running background and her amazing 100 mile debut at Cactus Rose in 2022. These two have some stories you definitely don’t want to miss!

Kenneth ran for Pay It Forward - Clean and Sober Living, and raised over $50,000 in the process during his Trans-Texas journey. An amazing documentary regarding his experience will be releasing soon, and we will definitely post more details about it once they emerge.

Pay It Forward, San Antonio

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

This week we check in with each other to see where we're all at regarding races and recovery. 

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

This week on the HappyCast, we venture down to the wind tunnels of 7IL ranch outside Houston, TX, to talk with some of the recent Jackalope Jam 100hr participants. We have the overall winner, Nick Petterson, who logged over 280 miles and nabbed the course record. We also have the second overall, and first female winner, Amanda Oliver, who went over 230 miles. And finally, we have Veronica Pardo, who went from a 50k to her first 100+ miler  during this event.  Oh, then there’s Andrew, who survived and came out standing upright. 

We talk about the challenges of running around a cone for 100+ laps, battling the elements, dealing with windburn, campsite destruction due to a random “sand hurricane” the first few days, the logistical issues of doing this event, and holding each other accountable and the insane support shown during this event. And of course, why the ruckers were having the time of their lives out there (congratulations Sierra; really would like to hear your perspective sometime). 

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

This week we sit down with local runner Jenni Ashcroft. We talk about her recent 108k finish at Running the Rose and feeling that Pink Jumpsuit Energy. We also discuss the differences between Gifted Athletes and High Achievers.

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

In this week’s HappyCast, Andrew and Stephanie sit down with returning guest Aimee Jacobs fresh off her run at the Leadville 100, joined by her pacer and close friend, Mel (“DJ Melly Mel”). From San Antonio to the Colorado Rockies, Aimee recounts her buildup to one of the most prestigious 100-mile races in the country, the challenges of training at altitude, and the unforgettable experience of racing at elevation. Mel shares how their friendship grew from early morning base runs to supporting each other through some of the toughest miles of their careers.

Aimee opens up about the harsh realities of racing at altitude — coughing up blood at Silver Rush, the relentless GI struggles at Leadville, and even temporary vision loss near the finish. Yet, with Mel at her side, troubleshooting fuel, offering tough love, and even providing questionable DJ playlists, the two pushed through every setback. Listeners will laugh at stories of “the princess pooping her pants,” garden gnome good-luck charms, and Mel’s accidental splits, while also being moved by the raw emotion of Aimee’s finish and the strength of their bond.

Looking ahead, Aimee talks about her bold jump into the world of 200-mile races, including Bigfoot 200 and the possibility of a Triple Crown attempt. She also shares her fundraising mission for Christus Children’s Cancer Center, running not just for herself but for kids in need of care. Whether you’re inspired by grit, friendship, or the sheer absurdity that comes with ultra-running, this episode captures the spirit of why we toe the line and keep coming back for more.

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

This week we sit down with a larger panel than normal to discuss all things Rocky Raccoon 100. Karen, Matt and Moe share their experiences racing as well as Kim, Stephanie and Dylan to share the crew perspective. We find out why wasn't Andrew there and more!

*Update: Moe found his buckle and returned the replacement.

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

This week we sit down with local badasses Andrea Moore and Jackie Cox to talk about their running journey both racing and crewing. We hear about Andrea's upcoming projects as well as their move to Arizona. These two truly embody the spirit of Happy Endings and what it means to be an ultra trail crew. 

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org

This week we sit down with local legend John Studebaker from Fort Worth (TX) to play a little game of Stephanie's called, Blue Pill, Red Pill. We are presented with either, or scenarios and talk about why. Andrew is late because of reasons unknown and we find out that he is adamantly against course previews.

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Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at info@happyendingstc.org