Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Midpacker Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| #125 Adrea Kooiman | 10 Years at the Barkley Fall Classic, Chasing the Croix, & Choosing the Hard Road | 28 Oct 2026 | 01:45:23 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Become a paid member: https://troymeadows.substack.com/subscribe Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH TRAINING PEAKS - Sign up to start your 14day free trial GO BREWING - Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order RENDEZVU.CO - Check out the Gear I love your purchases support me directly "I came because it's not guaranteed. I came because every year the course changes. I came because every single year, regardless of the outcome, I've had to push myself." What happens when finishing isn't the most important thing? Andrea Kooiman has lined up at the Barkley Fall Classic ten consecutive years. With five coveted Croix finishes, three marathon finishes, and two DNFs, she knows better than most just how unforgiving Frozen Head State Park can be. But during this year's race, Andrea faced a decision that tested something deeper than her endurance. After reaching Laz's infamous decision point with time remaining, she could take the marathon finish or turn around and chase the full 50K. Despite struggling with nutrition and knowing the odds were stacked against her, Andrea chose to keep going. The result wasn't what she wanted, but the experience revealed plenty about why she keeps coming back. Andrea joins Troy Meadows to share the highs, lows, and wonderfully absurd traditions of the Barkley Fall Classic, along with the experiences that have shaped her life beyond racing. Andrea's story reminds runners that the lessons, relationships, and experiences along the way can matter more than the finish line. Andrea’s Links
Relevant Links
Partner Links: Training Peaks - https://trainingpeaks.com Best Training App in the game, period. Sign up and get a 14day trial of their premium product Go Brewing - https://gobrewing.com/discount/MIDPACKER NA Beers for people that enjoy brews that taste great and are better for you. Less alcohol, fewer calories, and more productive tomorrows. Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Rendezvu.Co - https://www.rendezvu.co/troy-meadowsCheck out the Gear I love our purchases support me directly Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Andrea Kooiman, MidPacker Pod, Troy Meadows, Barkley Fall Classic, BFC, Barkley Marathons, Laz Lake, Frozen Head State Park, Rat Jaw, Zeke's Ridge, Chimney Top, Croix, Barkley decision point, ultrarunning, trail running, 50K, 100-mile ultramarathon, Cascade Crest 100, running motivation, mental toughness, perseverance, DNF, motherhood and running, family and ultrarunning, WeROCK, We Run Orange County's Kids, Students Run LA, youth marathon training, Road Runner Sports, race announcing, Kodiak by UTMB, running community, women in ultrarunning, endurance coaching, Orange County running, ultramarathon training, finding purpose through running | |||
| #124 Alan Needle | The Brain-Ankle Connection, Injury Prevention, & Running for the Long Haul | 29 Sep 2026 | 01:33:16 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Join the Free Newsletter or Become a supporting member: https://troymeadows.substack.com/subscribe Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH KILA - $50 off your order GO BREWING - 20% off your first order USE MIDPACKER TO GET THAT DISCOUNT FRIENDS RENDEZVU.CO - Check out the Gear I love your purchases support me directly JOIN THE APP STATE INJURY LAB: TRAIL RUNNING STUDY HERE : https://forms.gle/iWRESvzk5Xkx3NJh6 “In order to treat these injuries, we need to treat the brain.” Dr. Alan Needle has spent more than a decade running ultras while building a research career around a problem most trail runners know all too well: rolling an ankle. In this episode, Troy talks with Alan about his work at Appalachian State studying chronic ankle instability and the surprising role the brain and nervous system may play in repeated injuries. Alan explains how changes in proprioception and the way the brain communicates with a joint can affect stability, and why treating an injury may require looking beyond the ankle itself. Now Alan is bringing that research directly onto the trails. His team is studying runners at races across the Southeast to understand why one runner falls or rolls an ankle while another doesn't. They dig into:
After 14 years of ultrarunning, Alan's perspective is refreshingly simple: fitness comes and goes, training ebbs and flows, and staying in the sport for the long haul sometimes means accepting that "that was what it needed to be." Alan’s Links Alan Needle | Appalachian State App State Injury Lab + Trail Running StudyMost Recent Trail Running Study - this is paywalled if interested in reading I can get you a PDF Relevant Links Partner Links: Run Longer In Custom Insoles Use MIDPACKER for $50 off your order Go Brewing - https://gobrewing.com/discount/MIDPACKER NA Beers for people that enjoy brews that taste great and are better for you. Less alcohol, fewer calories, and more productive tomorrows. Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Rendezvu.Co - https://www.rendezvu.co/troy-meadowsCheck out the Gear I love our purchases support me directly Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Alan Needle, Appalachian State, Injury Lab, trail running, ultrarunning, chronic ankle instability, ankle sprains, proprioception, neuroscience, nervous system, injury prevention, balance training, trail running injuries, attention, cognitive load, Fonta Flora, Tanawha Adventures, Dirty Wolf Racing, burnout, sports psychology, work-life rhythm, running longevity, 100 milers, Western North Carolina | |||
| #123 Christopher Peterson | 200-Mile Adventures, Fatherhood, & Finding Community | 11 Sep 2026 | 01:27:16 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Become a paid member: https://troymeadows.substack.com/subscribe Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH KILA - $50 off your order GO BREWING - 20% off your first order USE MIDPACKER TO GET THAT DISCOUNT FRIENDS RENDEZVU.CO - Check out the Gear I love your purchases support me directly HELP CHRIS RAISE MONEY FOR FREE TO RUN Free to Run Fund Raiser: https://runsignup.com/christopherpeterson “I focus most of my attention on being a father.” Christopher Peterson is a father, farmer, writer, husband, community builder, and ultra runner. Running might be a big part of his life, but this conversation is really about everything he has built around it. Chris found running while living in London and later used it as a way to keep his body healthy through the physical demands of farming. His introduction to ultras came at Man Against Horse 50 Miler, where a DNF unexpectedly started a much bigger adventure. Since then, Chris has fallen hard for the 200-mile distance. He finished Bigfoot 200, completed Hellbender 100, and took on a supported 224-mile out-and-back FKT on the Bartram Trail through his adopted home of Western North Carolina. That Bartram effort became something bigger than an individual goal as friends, pacers, his local running community, and Outdoor 76 rallied around him. Chris's story is a reminder that big goals don't require an empty calendar. Sometimes the real challenge is figuring out how adventure fits alongside the people, work, and community that matter most. Chris’s Links: IG: @farmlosophy Sub Stack: Farmlosophy https://farmlosophy.substack.com Free to Run Fund Raiser: https://runsignup.com/christopherpeterson Relevant Links
Partner Links: KILA - https://kilarun.comRun Longer In Custom Insoles Use MIDPACKER for $50 off your order Go Brewing - https://gobrewing.com/discount/MIDPACKER NA Beers for people that enjoy brews that taste great and are better for you. Less alcohol, fewer calories, and more productive tomorrows. Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Rendezvu.Co - https://www.rendezvu.co/troy-meadowsCheck out the Gear I love our purchases support me directly Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Christopher Peterson, Chris Peterson, Farmlosophy, Western North Carolina, Franklin North Carolina, ultrarunning, trail running, 200 mile running, Bartram Trail, Bartram Trail FKT, Bigfoot 200, Hellbender 100, Cocodona 250, SCAR, Double SCAR, Standing Indian Loop, fastest known time, FKT, Free to Run, Stephanie Case, Outdoor 76, Franklin Farm Hub, sustainable agriculture, farming, fatherhood, parenting, running community, SNARK, Appalachian Trail, Great Smoky Mountains, Southern Appalachia, endurance running, community, fear, resilience, adventure | |||
| #122 Abigail West | Motherhood, Creativity, & Building an Artist-Athlete Life | 25 Aug 2026 | 01:31:58 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the Pod Directly: https://troymeadows.substack.com/subscribe Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH KILA - $50 off your order GO BREWING - 20% off your first order USE MIDPACKER TO GET THAT DISCOUNT FRIENDS RENDEZVU.CO - Check out the Gear I love your purchases support me directly "I don't think I'm a different person. I'm just a more expanded person." What happens when your passions stop competing with one another and start working together? In this episode, Troy Meadows sits down with artist, entrepreneur, trail runner, and new mom Abigail West. Abigail shares how an unlikely start in competitive rowing eventually led her to trail and ultrarunning, where she found the perfect blend of adventure, competition, and creativity. The conversation goes far beyond racing. Abigail talks about balancing motherhood with a return to training, what pregnancy and postpartum taught her about patience, and why she believes being an artist and an endurance athlete require many of the same qualities. She also shares how trail running transformed her artwork, why Southern Appalachia continues to inspire both her running and printmaking, and how she and her husband have built a life around creativity, entrepreneurship, and taking calculated risks. Whether she's preparing for another attempt at the Bartram Trail FKT, creating artwork inspired by the places she runs, or embracing life with a new baby while spending the summer in Italy, Abigail offers an honest perspective on building a life that reflects your values instead of someone else's expectations. In This Episode
Abigail’s Links IG: @upinthewoods Website: Abigail West Studio Relevant Links Partner Links: Run Longer In Custom Insoles Use MIDPACKER for $50 off your order Go Brewing - https://gobrewing.com/discount/MIDPACKER NA Beers for people that enjoy brews that taste great and are better for you. Less alcohol, fewer calories, and more productive tomorrows. Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Rendezvu.Co - https://www.rendezvu.co/troy-meadows Check out the Gear I love our purchases support me directly Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Abigail West, MidPacker Pod, trail running, ultrarunning, artist-athlete, printmaking, entrepreneurship, motherhood, postpartum running, Bartram Trail, Bartram Trail FKT, Southern Appalachians, Athens Georgia, Tuscany, Italy, University of Georgia, Cortona, creativity, endurance sports, trail art, running community, Megan Roche
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| #121 Ekta Basu | Finding Yourself, Tahoe 200, & The Power of the Right People | 08 Aug 2026 | 01:41:14 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Become a paid member: https://troymeadows.substack.com/subscribe Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH KILA - $50 off your order GO BREWING - 20% off your first order USE MIDPACKER TO GET THAT DISCOUNT FRIENDS RENDEZVU.CO - Check out the Gear I love your purchases support me directly "In search of finding who I am and what I want to do and who I want to be. That's how trail running happened." Ekta Basu didn't set out to become a 200-mile ultrarunner. She simply wanted to become a healthier, happier version of herself. What started with a pair of running shoes and a marathon six months later evolved into a journey of self-discovery that ultimately led her to the finish line of the Tahoe 200. In this episode, Ekta shares how trail running became her place of freedom and how years of showing up without a structured plan eventually gave way to purposeful training, strength work, and coaching. She talks candidly about balancing running with raising a family, the importance of surrounding yourself with people who believe in you, and why finishing Tahoe 200 wasn't just about endurance. It was about becoming the person she was searching for all along. The conversation also takes listeners behind the scenes of preparing for a 200-mile race, from building drop bags and learning to use poles to dealing with blisters, brain fog, and the mental recovery that comes after crossing the finish line. It's an honest conversation about growth, community, and why sometimes the biggest victories happen long before race day. In this episode
Ekta’s Links IG: @ekta_runs Strava: Ekta Basu Relevant Links Partner Links: Run Longer In Custom Insoles Use MIDPACKER for $50 off your order Go Brewing - https://gobrewing.com/discount/MIDPACKER NA Beers for people that enjoy brews that taste great and are better for you. Less alcohol, fewer calories, and more productive tomorrows. Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Rendezvu.Co - https://www.rendezvu.co/troy-meadows Check out the Gear I love our purchases support me directly Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Ekta Basu, Tahoe 200, trail running, ultrarunning, 200 miler, Destination Trail, Candice Burt, Javelina 100, Quicksilver 50K, American River 50 Mile, Rio Del Lago, Brazen Racing, Inside Trail Racing, Coastal Trail Runs, Bay Area trail running, strength training, mobility, coaching, motherhood, family, support system, resilience, personal growth, endurance, recovery, brain fog, ultramarathon | |||
| MidPacker Pod - Field Notes 04 | Western States Takeaways, Entrepreneur Life, & Chasing the Right Goals | 10 Jul 2026 | 00:36:08 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH PLAY ON RELIEF - 20% off your first order GO BREWING - 20% off your first order USE MIDPACKER TO GET THAT DISCOUNT FRIENDS RENDEZVU.CO - Check out the Gear I love our purchases support me directly Field Notes is back after a short break, and Troy has plenty to catch up on. Fresh off Western States week, he shares the moments that have stuck with him most, from Hans Troyer's fearless front-running to Vincent Bouillard's emotional victory, Jenn Lichter's breakout performance, and why Zack Miller remains his favorite ultrarunner of all time. The conversation then shifts from the sport to real life. Troy opens up about the decision to skip Laurel Highlands, why launching a new business changed his priorities, and how entrepreneurship and ultrarunning have more in common than most people realize. Rather than chasing races, he's embracing a season of enjoying the trails, building fitness, and preparing for a few exciting adventures later this year. He wraps things up with an update on his upcoming plans, thoughts on Hardrock, and a look at where the MidPacker Pod is headed for the rest of the season. Episode Highlights
Training Takeaways
Troy’s Links IG: @Troyontherun Relevant Links Partner Links: PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.com All Natural, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, Targeted Relief Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Go Brewing - https://gobrewing.com/discount/MIDPACKER NA Beers for people that enjoy brews that taste great and are better for you. Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Rendezvu.Co - https://www.rendezvu.co/troy-meadows Check out the Gear I love our purchases support me directly Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Freetrail - https://freetrail.com Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today.
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| #120 Tim Tollefson | Betting on Yourself, Building Mammoth Trail Fest, & The Courage to Reinvent | 17 Jun 2026 | 01:31:33 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page Check out the Gear I love HERE on rendezvu.co your purchases support me directly STOKED TO PARTNER WITH PLAY ON RELIEF - 20% off your first order GO BREWING - 20% off your first order VACATION RACES - 15% off any Ultra, Half Marathon, or Trailfest USE MIDPACKER TO GET THAT DISCOUNT FRIENDS "I basically didn't do it forever out of fear." Tim Tollefson has spent the last decade proving that growth often lives on the other side of discomfort. A two-time Olympic Marathon Trials qualifier, UTMB podium finisher, physical therapist, trail running pioneer, and founder of Mammoth Trail Fest, Tim's journey has been anything but linear. In this conversation, he shares how a career built around performance eventually evolved into something much bigger: community, connection, and learning to define success on his own terms. Tim reflects on his transition from road marathoning to trail running, his years with Nike Trail, HOKA, and Craft, and the lessons learned from competing at the highest levels of the sport. The conversation also dives deep into confidence versus courage, the power of self-belief, and what it took to finally bring his long-time dream of Mammoth Trail Fest to life. Throughout the episode, Tim offers a refreshing perspective on reinvention, entrepreneurship, and why betting on yourself is often the hardest—and most rewarding—decision you'll ever make. In This Episode
This episode is a reminder that growth rarely comes from playing it safe. Sometimes the biggest breakthroughs happen when you stop waiting for permission and start leaning in. Timmy's Links: Mammoth Trail Fest - https://www.mammothtrailfest.com Relevant Links: The Mammoth 200 https://www.themammoth200.com Craft Sportswear https://www.craftsports.us UTMB Mont-Blanc https://utmb.world Broken Arrow Skyrace https://brokenarrowskyrace.com The Rut Mountain Runs https://runtherut.com Billy Yang https://billyyang.com Partner Links: PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.com All Natural, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, Targeted Relief Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Go Brewing - https://gobrewing.com/discount/MIDPACKER NA Beers for people that enjoy brews that taste great and are better for you. Less alcohol, fewer calories, and more productive tomorrows. Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.comEpic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Tim Tollefson, Mammoth Trail Fest, Mammoth 200, UTMB, Nike Trail, HOKA, Craft Sportswear, Olympic Marathon Trials, trail running, ultrarunning, endurance sports, entrepreneurship, betting on yourself, confidence, courage, self-belief, identity, personal growth, community, race directing, Mammoth Lakes, Eastern Sierra, mentorship, storytelling, performance, resilience, trail culture, Free Trail, Rest Day Live | |||
| #119 Sara Duncan | First 100 Miler Lessons, Building Community, & Refusing To Quit | 05 Jun 2026 | 01:37:29 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page Check out the Gear I love HERE on rendezvu.co STOKED TO PARTNER WITH PLAY ON RELIEF - 20% off your first order VACATION RACES - 15% off any Ultra, Half Marathon, or Trailfest USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER "Running is such an individual endeavor, but it is absolutely a community sport." Sara Duncan didn't take the traditional path into running. She wasn't a standout athlete growing up and could barely run a mile when she joined her first run club in her twenties. Fast forward a decade and Sara is a trail runner, community builder, volunteer, and newly minted Hellbender 100 finisher. In this episode, Sara shares how a canceled 30th birthday party during the pandemic turned into a 30-mile challenge that launched her ultra running journey. From her first half marathon to running the Cruel Jewel 50 as a qualifier, Sara's story is one of persistence, curiosity, and embracing the unknown. The conversation dives deep into her first 100-mile experience at Hellbender, where a perfect race quickly turned into a masterclass in problem-solving. Foot pain, blisters, shoe issues, and an unexpected reaction to wool socks tested her resolve, but quitting was never on the table. Sara talks openly about leaning on her crew, pacers, volunteers, and the larger trail running community to make it to the finish line. The episode also explores Sara's passion for community building through SNARC (Sylva and Neighboring Area Run Club), her one-for-one commitment to volunteering for every race she runs, and a fundraising effort supporting Vecinos, an organization serving farm workers and underserved communities in Western North Carolina. In This Episode
Key Takeaway Sometimes success isn't about having the perfect race. Sometimes success is simply refusing to stop moving forward. Sara’s Links IG: @dirtbagspinster SubStack: https://substack.com/@dirtbagspinster Relevant Links
Partner Links: PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.comProven Pain Relief for People Who Refuse to Stop!All Natural, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, Targeted Relief Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use MIDPACKERPOD to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Sara Duncan, Hellbender 100, first 100 miler, ultra running, trail running, Cruel Jewel 50, Western North Carolina, SNARC, Sylva and Neighboring Area Run Club, community building, volunteering, pacing, crewing, Trail Sisters, Vecinos, Dirtbag Spinster, Janji, Injinji, blisters, foot care, resilience, ultramarathon, Hellbender race report, mid pack runner, endurance sports, Western Carolina University | |||
| #118 Troy Meadows & Julio Palma | Hellbender 100, Battling the DNF Demons, & Through Endurance We Conquer | 29 May 2026 | 02:00:00 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page Check out the Gear I love HERE on rendezvu.co STOKED TO PARTNER WITH PLAY ON RELIEF - 20% off your first order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription VACATION RACES - 15% off any Ultra, Half Marathon, or Trailfest “Through endurance we conquer.” In this special MidPacker Pod episode, returning guest Julio Palma flips the script and puts Troy Meadows in the hot seat to unpack Troy’s recent finish at the Hellbender 100. What unfolds is an honest and vulnerable conversation about setbacks, growth, mental toughness, and what it really means to keep showing up when things get hard. Troy opens up about his running journey—from growing up around endurance sports, to rediscovering running after losing both his mother and his dog in the same week, to eventually falling in love with trail and ultra running after reading Born to Run. The conversation also dives deep into Troy’s first 100-mile DNF at Dark Divide and how that experience forced him to reevaluate his mindset, priorities, and relationship with chasing qualifiers for races like Western States and Hardrock. The heart of the episode centers around Hellbender 100, one of the toughest races on the East Coast. Troy shares how this training block was the strongest of his life, the nutrition struggles and sleep deprivation he battled during the race, and how support from family, friends, and the trail community helped carry him through the darkest moments of the night. Some key themes from the episode include:
This one is raw, relatable, and full of those classic MidPacker moments where everyday runners chase extraordinary goals. Relevant Links Partner Links: PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.com All Natural, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, Targeted Relief Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com KICKR RUN It’s not running indoors. It’s running, reimagined. Run Your Way Buy the Wahoo KICKR RUN use code MIDPACK to get a free KICKR HEADWIND smart Bluetooth fan. Remember to add the HEADWIND to the cart and the code will apply to discount. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use MIDPACKERPOD to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Hellbender 100, Julio Palma, Troy Meadows, MidPacker Pod, ultra running, trail running, Hardrock qualifier, Western States, DNF, Dark Divide, Laurel Highlands, Run828, endurance, ultramarathon, mental toughness, resilience, Asheville trail running, strength training, ultra mindset, hundred miler, endurance sports, Appalachian trails, race recap, ultrarunning community | |||
| #117 Matt Van Dalsem | Community, Perspective, & More On The Fragility of Life | 20 May 2026 | 01:28:01 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page Check out the Gear I love HERE on rendezvu.co STOKED TO PARTNER WITH PLAY ON RELIEF - 20% off your first order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription VACATION RACES - 15% off any Ultra, Half Marathon, or Trailfest USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT WAHOO FITNESS - Use Code MIDPACK: When you pick up a Wahoo KICKR RUN get a free KICKR HEADWIND smart Bluetooth fan. Remember to add the HEADWIND to the cart and the code will apply to discount. “Life is fragile…shit can change in a second.” In this episode of the MidPacker Pod, Troy sits down with longtime friend and community staple Matt Van Dalsem (MVD) for a conversation that feels more like catching up over beers than a formal interview. From early days as a basketball player who saw running as punishment, to becoming a dedicated trail runner immersed in the sport’s culture, Matt’s journey is anything but traditional. What stands out most is how Matt found his way into ultras later in life; through curiosity, community, and proximity to the iconic Bay Area trails like Tilden Park. His first true ultra, the Dick Collins 50 miler, marked the start of a deeper connection to the sport. From there, experiences like the Canyons 100K and involvement with FreeTrail and Trailing Indicators helped shape his identity as a true midpacker balancing life, family, and big goals. But this episode goes deeper than race results. Matt shares a powerful and emotional story about loss in his family and how it reshaped his perspective on running, and life. It’s a raw reminder that while we chase big goals, life can shift in an instant. Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links
Partner Links: PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.com Proven Pain Relief for People Who Refuse to Stop!All Natural, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, Targeted Relief Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com KICKR RUN invites the rhythm, flow, and freedom of outdoor running inside. It’s not running indoors. It’s running, reimagined. Run Your Way Buy the Wahoo KICKR RUN use code MIDPACK to get a free KICKR HEADWIND smart Bluetooth fan. Remember to add the HEADWIND to the cart and the code will apply to discount. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use MIDPACKERPOD to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Matt Van Dalsem, Midpacker Pod, trail running, ultrarunning, Canyons 100K, Western States, Tahoe Rim Trail, trail running community, FreeTrail, Trailing Indicators, resilience, grief, endurance sports, Bay Area trails, midpack runners | |||
| #116 Ryan Thrower | Curiosity, Creativity, & The Fragility of Life | 30 Apr 2026 | 01:32:24 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH PLAY ON RELIEF - 20% off your first order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription VACATION RACES - 15% off any Ultra, Half Marathon, or Trailfest USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “The $hittiest mile in a hundred miler would still probably be better than the mile I could run at 85.” This week on the MidPacker Pod, Troy Meadows sits down with Ryan Thrower for one of the most honest and wide-ranging conversations the show has had in a while. Ryan opens up about his journey from bartending in Indianapolis and living out of his car while exploring the American West… to becoming one of the key creative voices behind Freetrail and modern trail running media. The conversation dives deep into curiosity, creativity, and learning to say yes to opportunity before you feel ready. Ryan shares stories about discovering trail running through Born to Run and Eat and Run, volunteering at Cascade Crest 100 Mile Endurance Run, and eventually building a life around storytelling, mountains, music, and community. The two also unpack Ryan’s unique approach to ultrarunning—especially his love for “step-for-step” adventures with friends at races like the Swiss Alps 100 and upcoming adventures filming Courtney Dauwalter at Cocodona 250 and running the Mammoth. But the heart of this episode centers around a bigger topic: the fragility of life. Ryan reflects on gratitude, staying present, creative burnout, and why even the hardest miles are gifts when viewed through the right lens. Topics Discussed
Ryan’s Links IG: @ryanthrower Relevant Links Partner Links: PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.com Proven Pain Relief for People Who Refuse to Stop!All Natural, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, Targeted Relief Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com KICKR RUN invites the rhythm, flow, and freedom of outdoor running inside. It’s not running indoors. It’s running, reimagined. Run Your Way Buy the Wahoo KICKR RUN use code MIDPACK to get a free KICKR HEADWIND smart Bluetooth fan. Remember to add the HEADWIND to the cart and the code will apply to discount. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use MIDPACKERPOD to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Ryan Thrower, Freetrail, trail running, ultrarunning, Cocodona 250, Western States, Mammoth, storytelling, photography, music, creativity, gratitude, fragility of life, ultramarathon, trail culture, Dylan Bowman, community, endurance sports, trail media, curiosity | |||
| MidPacker Pod Field Notes – EP 03 | 3 Weeks to Hellbender: Training Around a Wedding, Leasons Form the Training Camp, & Troy's Heat Acclamation Protocol | 23 Apr 2026 | 00:48:07 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods . Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH PLAY ON RELIEF - 20% off your first order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription VACATION RACES - 15% off any Ultra, Half Marathon, or Trailfest USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “Training doesn’t have to be perfect to be effective.” In episode 03 of Field Notes, Troy is three weeks out from the Hellbender 100 Mile Endurance Run and things are getting real. From navigating travel during peak training to dialing in the final details, this one is packed with honest reflections, lessons learned, and that pre-race energy we all know so well. Episode Highlights
Athlete Shout-Out
Motivational Takeaways
Troy’s Links IG: @troyontherun Personal Site: Troyontherun.com Coaching Page: Troy’s Ultra Coaching Page Relevant Links Partner Links: PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.com Proven Pain Relief for People Who Refuse to Stop!All Natural, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, Targeted Relief Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com KICKR RUN It’s not running indoors. It’s running, reimagined. Run Your Way Buy the Wahoo KICKR RUN use code MIDPACK to get a free KICKR HEADWIND smart Bluetooth fan. Remember to add the HEADWIND to the cart and the code will apply to discount. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use MIDPACKERPOD to double the donation from your purchase. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Hellbender 100, ultramarathon training, trail running, training camp, heat acclimation, race strategy, endurance fueling, midpacker mindset, ultra coaching, time on trails app, recovery tools, strength training, long run strategy, crew planning | |||
| #115 Jordan Battaglia | Building PlayOn, Strength for Longevity, and Staying Injury Free | 16 Apr 2026 | 01:28:44 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH PLAY ON RELIEF - 20% off your first order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription VACATION RACES - 15% off any Ultra, Half Marathon, or Trailfest USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT WAHOO FITNESS - Use Code MIDPACK When you pick up a Wahoo KICKR RUN get a free KICKR HEADWIND smart Bluetooth fan. Remember to add the HEADWIND to the cart and the code will apply to discount. “What do I want to be today and what do I want to be when I’m 90?” In this episode, Troy Meadows sits down with Jordan Battaglia, a former college football player turned entrepreneur, coach, and co-founder of PlayOn Relief. What starts as a conversation about pain relief quickly turns into a deeper dive into performance, durability, and what it really means to train for the long game. Guest Spotlight:
Key Takeaways:
Key Topics Covered
Jordan’s Links: IG: @jordanbattag PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.com IG: @playonrelief Relevant Links Partner Links: PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.com Proven Pain Relief for People Who Refuse to Stop!All Natural, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, Targeted Relief Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com KICKR RUN invites the rhythm, flow, and freedom of outdoor running inside. It’s not running indoors. It’s running, reimagined. Run Your Way Buy the Wahoo KICKR RUN use code MIDPACK to get a free KICKR HEADWIND smart Bluetooth fan. Remember to add the HEADWIND to the cart and the code will apply to discount. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use MIDPACKERPOD to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Jordan Battaglia, PlayOn Relief, strength training, mobility, joint health, ultra running, endurance training, injury prevention, recovery, arnica, trail running, performance, longevity | |||
| #114 Stevie Smith | Fueling for your next Ultra, Betting on Yourself & Building an Endurance Nutrition Coaching Business | 09 Apr 2026 | 01:33:26 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH PLAY ON RELIEF - 20% off your first order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription VACATION RACES - 15% off any Ultra, Half Marathon, or Trailfest USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “More is not always better for everybody.” This episode came together thanks to one of our awesome partners, Vacation Races, who connected Troy and Stevie to dive into all things fueling for ultras—and it turned into a seriously valuable conversation. Stevie Smith’s journey is rooted in curiosity…from a former lacrosse goalie who couldn’t run a quarter mile to completing marathons, multiple Ironmans, and even 10K open water swims. Her path wasn’t linear, but that willingness to explore and adapt is exactly what shaped her into the athlete—and coach—she is today. Now a registered sports dietitian and business owner, Stevie helps endurance athletes fuel smarter and perform better. She shares her transition from clinical nutrition to launching her own business, embracing the uncertainty of entrepreneurship, and building a career around helping others thrive. The conversation goes deep on ultra fueling, why more carbs isn’t always better, how to find your personal “sweet spot,” and why logistics can make or break your race. From real food options like potatoes and pierogies to hydration, sodium, and gut training, Stevie keeps it real and practical for everyday runners. Key Takeaways:
Stevie’s Links IG: @stevielynlyn Website: https://stevielynrd.com Partner Links: PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.com Proven Pain Relief for People Who Refuse to Stop!All Natural, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, Targeted Relief Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com KICKR RUN invites the rhythm, flow, and freedom of outdoor running inside. It’s not running indoors. It’s running, reimagined. Run Your Way Buy the Wahoo KICKR RUN use code MIDPACK to get a free TRACKR Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. Remember to add the TRACKR to the cart and the code will apply to discount. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use MIDPACKERPOD to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Stevie Smith, sports nutrition, ultra running fueling, endurance nutrition, Ironman, open water swimming, marathon training, hydration strategy, sodium intake, carbohydrate intake, fueling logistics, trail running, midpack runners, sports dietitian, endurance performance | |||
| #113 Dr Jeff Hammond | Cocodona Dreams, Foot Health, Plantar Fasciitis, Injury Lessons, & Chasing Big Goals | 02 Apr 2026 | 01:29:18 | |
#113 Dr Jeff Hammond | Cocodona Dreams, Foot Health, Plantar Fasciitis, Injury Lessons, & Chasing Big Goals The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH PLAY ON RELIEF - 20% off your first order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription VACATION RACES - 15% off any Ultra, Half Marathon, or Trailfest USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT WAHOO FITNESS - Use Code MIDPACK: When you pick up a Wahoo KICKR RUN get a free TRACKR Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. Remember to add the TRACKR to the cart and the code will apply to discount. “We’re not putting you in textbook normal, we’re putting you in your normal.” In this episode of the MidPacker Pod, Jeff Hammond, owner and head doctor at Hammond Foot & Ankle, returns to the show with a whole new perspective. What started as crewing at Cocodona has turned into a full dive into trail running, with Jeff now preparing to toe the line at the Cocodona 250 himself. Jeff shares what it’s like to balance life as a medical professional and an everyday runner chasing big goals. From building his training with coach Alyssa Clark to navigating injury scares and dialing in race logistics, his journey is one many mid-packers will recognize. Jeff’s Links IG: @jeff.r.hammond Website https://hammondfootandankle.com/ Athlete Spotlight
Takeaways:
Key Topics & Takeaways
Partner Links: PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.com Proven Pain Relief for People Who Refuse to Stop!All Natural, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, Targeted Relief Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Training Peaks Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com KICKR RUN invites the rhythm, flow, and freedom of outdoor running inside. It’s not running indoors. It’s running, reimagined. Run Your Way Buy the Wahoo KICKR RUN use code MIDPACK to get a free TRACKR Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. Remember to add the TRACKR to the cart and the code will apply to discount. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Use MIDPACKERPOD to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Jeff Hammond, Cocodona 250, trail running, plantar fasciitis, ultrarunning, injury prevention, endurance training, foot health, running injuries, taper, coaching, midpack runners | |||
| #112 Cody Taylor | From Touring Drummer to FKT Machine, Reinvention, & Unsupported Adventures | 26 Mar 2026 | 01:44:47 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE - 10% off your order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription PLAY ON RELIEF - 20% off your first order VACATION RACES - 15% off any Ultra, Half Marathon, or Trailfest USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT WAHOO FITNESS - Use Code MIDPACK: When you pick up a Wahoo KICKR RUN get a free TRACKR Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. Remember to add the TRACKR to the cart and the code will apply to discount. “It’s not about the FKT… it’s about surviving the adventure.” Cody Taylor’s story is one of reinvention, grit, and going all-in on a new path. A former touring drummer whose music career came to a halt during the pandemic, Cody found a new outlet in running, and didn’t just dip his toes in…he dove headfirst into the deep end . What started as a way to cope quickly turned into a passion for extreme endurance.
Cody’s approach is simple but powerful: do hard things, learn fast, and keep showing up. His journey is a reminder that it’s never too late to pivot, and that growth lives just outside your comfort zone. Cody’s Links Website: https://findyournewnormal.ca Relevant Links Partner Links: Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.com Proven Pain Relief for People Who Refuse to Stop!All Natural, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, Targeted Relief Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Training Peaks A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com KICKR RUN invites the rhythm, flow, and freedom of outdoor running inside. It’s not running indoors. It’s running, reimagined. Run Your Way Buy the Wahoo KICKR RUN use code MIDPACK to get a free TRACKR Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. Remember to add the TRACKR to the cart and the code will apply to discount. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Use MIDPACKERPOD to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Cody Taylor, FKT, Bruce Trail, International Appalachian Trail, unsupported running, ultra running, endurance adventure, trail running, New Normal coaching, resilience, mindset, entrepreneurship, trail community, ultra endurance | |||
| #111 Christi Thompson | From Burnout to Breakthrough, Timed Ultras, and Stretch Lab | 19 Mar 2026 | 01:39:10 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE - 10% off your order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription PLAY ON RELIEF - 20% off your first order VACATION RACES - 15% off any Ultra, Half Marathon, or Trailfest USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT WAHOO FITNESS - Use Code MIDPACK: When you pick up a Wahoo KICKR RUN get a free TRACKR Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. Remember to add the TRACKR to the cart and the code will apply to discount. “You come out of it a changed person.” In this episode, Troy Meadows sits down with Christi Thompson, a self-proclaimed science nerd, athletic trainer, and trail runner who found her way back to the sport by ditching pressure and chasing fun. From cross-country roots to rediscovering running at the Whitewater Center, Christi’s journey is all about evolving her relationship with the sport. She shares how a nighttime trail half marathon reignited her love for racing and led her down the rabbit hole of ultra running, eventually tackling timed events like 6-hour and 12-hour races. Christi opens up about the mental challenges of looped racing, the emotional highs and lows, and the moment she realized these experiences can truly change you. The conversation also dives into her current battle with knee pain, how past injuries shaped her biomechanics, and what it’s like to know better but still learn lessons the hard way. Through it all, Christi brings a thoughtful and honest perspective on longevity, mobility, and staying in the game. Takeaways:
Athlete Spotlight: Christi Thompson
Christi’s Links Website: Relevant Links Partner Links: Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.com All Natural, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, Targeted Relief Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Training Peaks Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com KICKR RUN Run Your Way It’s not running indoors. It’s running, reimagined. Buy the Wahoo KICKR RUN use code MIDPACK to get a free TRACKR Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. trail running, ultra running, timed races, 12 hour race, 6 hour race, running injuries, knee pain, biomechanics, mobility, running economy, Whitewater Center, endurance mindset, trail community, strength training, fatigue training | |||
| #110 Jessica Loudermilk | Black Canyon 100K, Having an Adventure Mindset, & Her Burrito League Experience | 12 Mar 2026 | 01:22:44 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE - 10% off your order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription PLAY ON RELIEF - 20% off your first order VACATION RACES - 15% off any Ultra, Half Marathon, or Trailfest USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT WAHOO FITNESS - Use Code MIDPACK: When you pick up a Wahoo KICKR RUN get a free TRACKR Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. Remember to add the TRACKR to the cart and the code will apply to discount. “I think I’m just kind of a jack of all trades. I like to get my toes into a little bit of everything.” “I think I’m just kind of a jack of all trades. I like to get my toes into a little bit of everything.”Jessica Loudermilk didn’t grow up loving running. A former softball player and rugby athlete, she found running later in life and started with a goal of completing half marathons in different states. That curiosity eventually led her from road racing into the world of trail and ultra running. She quickly dove into ultras, taking on the Umstead 100 early in her trail journey and pushing through a tough final stretch to finish her first 100 miler. More recently, Jessica raced the Black Canyon 100K, where she adjusted her fueling mid-race and rallied late to hit her 15-hour goal finish. Outside of racing, Jessica works as a physical therapist helping patients regain mobility and spends time crewing and pacing friends at races like Southern States and Cocodona. When she’s not running, she’s chasing adventure through cave diving, travel, and building an ambulance camper for race trips. Jessica's Links YouTube: JessRuns50States Relevant Links
Partner Links: Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.com All Natural, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, Targeted Relief Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Training Peaks Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com KICKR RUN It’s not running indoors. It’s running, reimagined. Run Your Way Buy the Wahoo KICKR RUN use code MIDPACK to get a free TRACKR Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. Add TRACKR to cart to apply discount. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/
Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Jessica Loudermilk, MidPacker Pod, trail running, ultrarunning, Black Canyon 100K, Umstead 100, Cocodona 250, Southern States 200, Never Summer 100K, Rim to River 100, ultrarunning mindset, fueling strategy, caffeine in ultras, Greenville Burrito League, running community, physical therapy, endurance sports | |||
| MidPacker Pod Field Notes – Ep 002 | 9 Weeks to Hellbender: Finishing the Tempo Block and Starting the Endurance Phase | 04 Mar 2026 | 00:41:29 | |
MidPacker Pod – Field Notes Ep 2 Title: Nine Weeks to Hellbender With nine weeks until the Hellbender 100, Troy Meadows checks in on his training as he finishes a tempo block and begins the endurance phase. In this episode of MidPacker Field Notes, Troy shares snow day miles in Asheville, plans for a mini training camp, trail work at Snooks Nose, fueling strategies, and a shoutout to a listener preparing for her first ultra. The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE - 10% off your order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription PLAY ON RELIEF - 20% off your first order VACATION RACES - 15% off any Ultra, Half Marathon, or Trailfest USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT WAHOO FITNESS - Use Code MIDPACK: When you pick up a Wahoo KICKR RUN get a free TRACKR Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. Remember to add the TRACKR to the cart and the code will apply to discount. “It’s not about what you do on a daily basis, it’s about how you’re stacking and showing up consistently over a really long time horizon.”
Troy previews an upcoming mini training camp designed to simulate race fatigue and dial in pacing, fueling, and gear. He also shares updates from a Snooks Nose trail work day and explains why the original Hellbender course may still be another year away from returning. Training Highlights
Community Shoutout
Relevant Links Partner Links: Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.com All Natural, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, Targeted Relief Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com/Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com KICKR RUN It’s not running indoors. It’s running, reimagined. Buy the Wahoo KICKR RUN use code MIDPACK to get a free TRACKR Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Hellbender 100, ultrarunning training, endurance block, tempo training, uphill intervals, trail running, winter running, TrainingPeaks, Hyperlyte Liquid Performance, PlayOn Relief Pods, Mount Mitchell Heartbreaker, ultra coaching, endurance training, trail stewardship, Snooks Nose Trail | |||
| #109 Carrie Baris | RD of the Hellbender 100, President of the Run 828 Foundation, Ride and Tie, & Healing Through Service | 25 Feb 2026 | 01:45:00 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE - 10% off your order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription PLAY ON RELIEF - 20% off your first order VACATION RACES - 15% off any Ultra, Half Marathon, or Trailfest USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT WAHOO FITNESS - Use Code MIDPACK: When you pick up a Wahoo KICKR RUN get a free TRACKR Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. “If you go back in time and look at me as a kid, I was either on a horse or on a trail somewhere.” Carrie Baris is deeply rooted in Western North Carolina trail culture. A former high school English teacher of 19 years, she left the classroom in 2021 to focus on trails, race directing, and equestrian sport. Her love for running began in middle school when cross country became her place to belong, especially on the trails behind her high school. After moving to Asheville in 2010, she fully embraced trail and ultra running through the North Carolina Mountain Trail Runners and events like the Black Mountain Marathon and Mount Mitchell Challenge. Carrie also competes in Ride & Tie, an endurance sport that pairs two humans and a horse. She’s nearing 5,000 career miles, a rare milestone that reflects her grit and teamwork. As president of the Run828 Foundation & RD of the Hellbender 100, she has helped grow the race into both a Hardrock & Western States qualifier while keeping its grassroots feel. After losing her husband in 2018, crewing and pacing her sister at Hellbender became part of her healing journey. Carrie’s Links Run828 Foundation: https://run828foundation.org Hellbender 100: https://hellbender100.com Relevant Links
Partner Links: Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.com All Natural, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, Targeted Relief Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com KICKR RUN It’s not running indoors. It’s running, reimagined. Run Your Way Buy the Wahoo KICKR RUN use code MIDPACK to get a free TRACKR Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Carrie Baris, Hellbender 100, Run828 Foundation, Western North Carolina trails, ultra running, ride and tie, Mount Mitchell, Black Mountain Marathon, Hardrock qualifier, Western States qualifier, community leadership, trail stewardship, grief and healing, race directing, endurance sport | |||
| #108 Kirk Cherep |Building Trail Blaze Running, Trail Golf, & Building Trail Community in the Midwest | 18 Feb 2026 | 01:46:05 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE - 10% off your order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription PLAY ON RELIEF - 20% off your first order VACATION RACES - 15% off any Ultra, Half Marathon, or Trailfest USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT WAHOO FITNESS - Use Code MIDPACK: When you pick up a Wahoo KICKR RUN get a free TRACKR Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. Remember to add the TRACKR to the cart and the code will apply to discount. “I just wanted it to exist, so I made it exist.” In this episode, Troy Meadows talks with Kirk Cherep. Kirk shares how a Spartan Race on his college graduation day lit the spark that eventually led him deep into trail and ultra running, and ultimately into race directing. After falling in love with the community through films by Billy Yang and The Ginger Runner and reading Born to Run, Kirk now directs multiple events through Trailblazer Running in Indiana.
Kirk also co-owns Tempo Run Timing, timing over 50 events a year, and partners with Runners for Public Lands to give back through trail work at Indiana Dunes National Park . Kirk talks honestly about balance, or the lack of it, and accept that sometimes you’re just “really good at faking it” while juggling family, work, and big goals . This year, he’s lining up for Hellbender 100 and planning big adventure runs like Painted Rocks Lakeshore and a Grand Canyon R2R2R. Kirk's Links Website: Trailblazer Running – https://www.trailblazerrunning.co Relevant Links
Partner Links: Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.com Proven Pain Relief for People Who Refuse to Stop!All Natural, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, Targeted Relief Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription Vacation Races - https://www.vacationraces.com Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US. Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com KICKR RUN invites the rhythm, flow, and freedom of outdoor running inside. It’s not running indoors. It’s running, reimagined. Run Your Way Buy the Wahoo KICKR RUN use code MIDPACK to get a free TRACKR Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. Remember to add the TRACKR to the cart and the code will apply to discount. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Use MIDPACKERPOD to double the donation from your purchase. Kirk Cherep, Trailblazer Running, Knobstone 50, Trail Golf, Midwest trail running, race directing, ultra running, Hellbender 100, Indiana trails, Runners for Public Lands, Indiana Dunes, community building, obstacle course racing, Born to Run, Billy Yang, tempo run timing, work-life balance, trail stewardship, | |||
| #107 Melissa Londry | Building Safe Trail Communities, Running 240 Miles, & Doing It All with Heart | 11 Feb 2026 | 01:43:08 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE - 10% off your order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription PLAY ON RELIEF - 20% off your first order USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT WAHOO FITNESS - Use Code MIDPACK: When you pick up a Wahoo KICKR RUN get a free TRACKR Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. Remember to add the TRACKR to the cart and the code will apply to discount. “You can hold space for both family and fierce goals. It just takes intention.” In this episode, Troy Meadows sits down with Melissa Londry, a trail runner, race director, business owner, and mom who’s pouring passion into every part of her life. What started as a pandemic-inspired dive into trail running has become a deeply rooted lifestyle centered on advocacy, mental health, and community. Melissa shares her journey from picking up trail shoes during lockdown to directing a growing slate of inclusive, community-driven races in Southwest Virginia. Her events, like the Woodbooger 100, New River Trail Races, and Crystal Springs Ultras are built with heart, intention, and a focus on creating safe, welcoming spaces for all. Beyond race directing, Melissa opens up about:
Melissa's Links TikTok: Melissa.on.the.trail Website: https://www.swvarunning.com/ Relevant Links Partner Links: Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order or your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary PlayOn Relief - https://playonrelief.com Proven Pain Relief for People Who Refuse to Stop!All Natural, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, Targeted Relief Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first order Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription Wahoo Fitness - https://www.wahoofitness.com KICKR RUN invites the rhythm, flow, and freedom of outdoor running inside. It’s not running indoors. It’s running, reimagined. Run Your Way Buy the Wahoo KICKR RUN use code MIDPACK to get a free TRACKR Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. Remember to add the TRACKR to the cart and the code will apply to discount. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Melissa Londry, trail running, race directing, Woodbooger 100, New River Trail Races, Crystal Springs Ultras, Michigan 240, mental health, trauma-informed running, ultra training, women in trail running, parenting and running, running community, inclusivity, SWVA running, long distance running, running entrepreneur, Troy Meadows, MidPacker Pod
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| #106 Kayla Fitzgerald | Building Palmetto Ultras, Fueling the Dream, & The Barkley Fall Classic, | 03 Feb 2026 | 02:00:04 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH
HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE - 10% off your order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “Sometimes it’s not about the finish line. It’s about finding joy in the messy middle.” On this episode of the MidPacker Pod, Troy sits down with trail runner, race director, registered dietitian, and mom: Kayla Fitzgerald for a deep, fun, and relatable conversation about how she juggles it all while still chasing big goals in the ultra world. Kayla shares her shift from road racing to trail running after realizing the road scene just didn’t vibe with her. What she found on the trails was community, connection, and a whole new way to push herself. From leading group runs to organizing local races under her brand Palmetto Ultras, Kayla has become a cornerstone of her local running community in South Carolina. We dive into:
Whether you’re a trail veteran or just dipping your toes into the dirt, Kayla’s perspective on doing what you love while doing life is refreshing and real. Athlete Spotlight: Kayla Fitzgerald
Kayla's Links IG: @palmetto.ultras Website: Palmettoultras.com Nutrition Coaching Site: Endurance-Nutritionist.com Relevant Links Partner Links: Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Kayla Fitzgerald, trail running, ultrarunning, Barkley Fall Classic, Southern States 200, Barn Creek Backyard Ultra, Beast of the East, race director, Palmetto Ultras, nutrition for runners, mom runner, balancing life and running, Freetrail, MidPacker Pod | |||
| MidPacker Pod Field Notes – Ep 001 | Reset to Rise: VO2 Max, Intentional Rest & the Road to Hellbender | 27 Jan 2026 | 00:32:07 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE - 10% off your order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “It’s not weakness to rest. It’s part of the long game.” In the very first edition of MidPacker Field Notes, host Troy Meadows pulls back the curtain on his early 2026 training season, offering a raw, honest check-in on life, recovery, and what's ahead. Coming off a tough bout of sickness in January, Troy talks about the importance of intentional rest, easing back into structured training, and setting the tone for the Hellbender 100. Listeners get a peek into Troy's latest training block, complete with hill repeats, tempo intervals, and long endurance sessions, along with shoutouts to athletes in the MidPacker coaching community and updates on his race calendar. This is a solo episode with real talk, actionable insights, and a strong reminder: rest is part of the work. Training Highlights & Takeaways
Community Shoutouts
Troy’s Links IG - @troyontherun Follow the Show IG - @midpackerpod Relevant Links Partner Links: Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. VO2 max, Hellbender 100, Laurel Highlands Ultra, TrainingPeaks, Hyperlyte, solo episode, ultrarunning, rest and recovery, tempo block, uphill intervals, Sedona Canyons 125, coaching, winter training, endurance, community shoutouts, pacing, fueling, running mindset | |||
| Trailing Indicators 09 | Year-End Reflections & Big 2026 Goals | 31 Dec 2025 | 00:56:32 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “The spirit of this community is fantastic—and none of these friendships would exist without trail running.” — MVD It’s the final episode of Trailing Indicators for 2025, and Troy is closing out the year with a festive check-in from Corinne Shalvoy (reporting live from snowy Ouray, Colorado) and Matt Van Dalsem (holding it down in Marin). In classic TI fashion, the crew reflects on what went right—and wrong—this year, both on and off the trail. In this episode:
Corinne’s Links Shalvoy Running - YouTube Channel Troy’s Links MVD Links Relevant Links Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today.
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| #105 Angie Lake | Re-finding the Joy of Running, Wild Women Trail Runs, & Listening to Your Body | 23 Dec 2025 | 01:48:57 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “Running used to be about control — now it's about connection” In this raw and insightful episode of the MidPacker Pod, Troy sits down with Angie Lake — trail runner, outdoor industry creative, and writer behind Blood, Sweat, and Fear on Substack. Angie’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and learning to reconnect with joy through movement. Far from chasing perfection, Angie’s journey is about reclaiming space, in the outdoors, in storytelling, and in herself. In this episode, she opens up about:
Angie reminds us that joy is enough. Speed isn’t required. And you don’t have to fit into someone else’s mold to be a “real runner.” Subscribe to Angie’s Substack: Blood, Sweat, and Fear Angies Links
Other Links Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today.
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| #104 Miranda Williamson | Negative Splitting High Lonesome, RunCations, & Building Your Own Run Community | 16 Dec 2025 | 01:42:21 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ "Sometimes you just do something that feels dumb, and then later you're like, ‘That actually kind of ruled." In this episode of the MidPacker Pod, Troy is joined by Miranda Williamson—trail runner and co-host of the Running with Problems podcast. Miranda shares her grounded, often hilarious journey into trail and ultra-running, one that started with a birthday 10K and evolved into crewing Barkley, pacing Dark Divide, and accidentally negative-splitting her first 100-miler at High Lonesome. From running her first trail race in road shoes from TJ Maxx to completing the San Juan Solstice 50-miler twice, Miranda brings self-awareness and good vibes to the trail scene. She unpacks her experience on the Hardrock 100 course during “Soft Rock,” discusses the emotional chaos of crewing Barkley, and opens up about the vulnerable, sometimes risky conversations she and co-host John Eisen tackle on their podcast, Running with Problems. Miranda’s Links In This Episode:
Relevant Links: Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Miranda Williamson, Running with Problems, High Lonesome 100, San Juan Solstice, Soft Rock, Har Rock, Barkley Marathons, trail running, crewing, pacing, Dark Divide, ultrarunning, running podcast, midpack | |||
| #103 Malcolm Pascotti | Can't Buy Cool Studios, The Anti-Hustle Philosophy, & Taking Big Beets on Yourself | 06 Dec 2025 | 01:28:01 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “Running is more than a race. It’s art, memory, and freedom.” On this episode Troy Meadows sits down with Malcolm Pascotti, founder of Can’t Buy Cool Studios. Malcolm’s journey is one of quiet evolution. He started as a road runner, lots of miles in high school and beyond, but during the pandemic, while living in San Francisco, he began exploring trails in the Marin Headlands and hills around Pacifica. That slow, natural shift eventually led him into mountain running and “DIY ultras” solo, self‑supported runs of 30–40 miles, all on his own terms. What makes Malcolm stand out isn’t just distance or pace, but the way he mixes movement with creativity. Outside of running, he climbs, skis, scrambles, shoots photography (both professionally and for fun), writes poems and musings. He calls it living. He also quietly gives back to the community: providing gear and support to fellow runners, like when he ran a T-shirt sale to help fund race entries for another runner, proof that support doesn’t always need spotlight. Malcolm is quietly building Can’t Buy Cool Studios, weaving together art, running, identity, and community. Motivational Highlights
Links & Resources
Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today.
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| #102 Jon Eisen | Navigating Barkley, Finding Your Why, & Bushwhacking Your Way To Your Dreams | 28 Nov 2025 | 01:52:48 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH
BLACK FRIDAY SALE 25% off Premium!!!! Use CYBER25 at Checkout using the link below start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker “Running became my way to process grief, build community, and explore the edges of what’s possible.” In this episode, Jon Eisen joins Troy Meadows to unpack a journey that goes far beyond miles. Jon’s career in tech didn’t prepare him for the kind of grit and self‑discovery he found on the trails, especially when he set his sights on the infamous Barkley Marathons. On the way he picked up ultra finishes at events like Niwot’s Challenge and the Yucca Bar Massacre, embraced navigation‑heavy racing, and turned running into a tool for resilience and community. Highlights:
Jon’s links:
Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today.
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| #101 Erica Rupp | Herbal Remedies for Trail Runners, Supporting Your Race Director Partner, Finding Belonging in the Ultra Community | 21 Nov 2025 | 01:35:20 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT BLACK FRIDAY SALE 25% off Premium!!!! Use CYBER25 at checkout using the link below https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “I am currently not a trail runner, but have found deep belonging within the community.” In this episode, we bring on Erica Rupp—a woman who didn’t pick up trail shoes, but found her place in the ultra community anyway. Her story flips the usual “runner interview” on its head, and it’s rich in meaning. Guest journey & highlights
Links
Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today.
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| #100 Lazarus Lake | The Barkley Blueprint, Backyard Ultras, Embracing the Edge, & Why Comfort’s the Enemy | 14 Nov 2025 | 01:16:05 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “Failure means you found your edge—that’s where you learn.” In this episode, Troy sits down with the one and only Gary Cantrell, better known to the trail world as Lazarus Lake. From humble beginnings in Tennessee to building the most notorious events in ultrarunning, Laz has done more than just push limits—he’s redefined them. What you’ll hear in this episode:
Whether you’re a back-of-the-pack grinder or chasing podiums, Laz’s words will hit home. His belief that every runner has untapped reserves of toughness is as brutal as it is uplifting. Relevant Links: Partner Links: Janji - Janji.com Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Use code: MIDPACKER to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. ultrarunning, Barkley Marathons, Big’s Backyard Ultra, Lazarus Lake, Gary Cantrell, endurance, trail running, failure, mental toughness, race design, Tennessee, Frozen Head, grit, perseverance | |||
| #99 Dreama Walton | Motherhood, Trail Camps For Kids, & Building Dream Adventures | 06 Nov 2025 | 01:22:46 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “Kids need to see their parents do hard things — and they need to try a few themselves.” In this episode, Troy sits down with Dreama Walton — trail runner, mother, community-builder, and founder of Dreama Adventures — whose journey is equal parts inspiring and badass.
This convo is packed with inspiration, hard-earned lessons, and love for community. Dreama’s Links Relevant Links
Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today.
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| #98 Jared Beasley | The Endurance Artist, Barkley’s Secrets, & Running Toward the Story | 29 Oct 2025 | 01:11:29 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ "I had to prove I wasn’t just another guy chasing Laz for a headline—I had to show up, over and over." In this episode, Troy sits down with Jared Beasley, journalist, author, and now, the man who got closer to Lazarus Lake than just about anyone. Jered’s new book, Endurance Artist, is part biography, part endurance journey, and full-blown deep dive into the enigmatic world of Laz—the creator of Barkley Marathons and the Backyard Ultra. Jared shares his own story of burnout, reinvention, and how he found healing through running and storytelling. What started as a curious profile of an oddball race director turned into years of friendship, exploration, and digging up the strange and beautiful layers of one of ultrarunning’s most legendary figures. In This Episode:
Jareds Links: Relevant Links: Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Jared Beasley, Lazarus Lake, Garry Cantrell, Barkley Marathons, Backyard Ultra, Endurance Artist, ultra running, endurance sports, embedded journalism, failure, resilience, Troy Meadows, MidPacker Pod | |||
| Trailing Indicators 08 | Have 200’s Hit the Tipping Point & How Do you Track Your Training | 22 Oct 2025 | 01:01:37 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “It’s just a meandering burrito fest… the art of the possible.” - MVD Trailing Indicators returns with a sharp, funny, and honest catch-up featuring Troy Meadows Corinne Shalvoy and Matt Van Dalsem. Corinne recaps a stacked stretch: crewing at Western States, calling the action at Hardrock, then throwing down at the Ouray 50 where she finished within two minutes of the course record and started eyeing Javelina 100K with a sticky-note reminder of the 8:13 mark. MVD chimes in from “off-season” purgatory, pledging his hiatus ends at Javelina and launching a spirited riff on the boom in 200-milers, live coverage, and why finish-line dreams can belong to mid-packers too. Discussion Topics:
Corinne’s Links Shalvoy Running - YouTube Channel Troy’s Links MVD Links Highlights:
Relevant links Partner Links: Janji - Janji.com Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. trail running tips, ultra running training, endurance running podcast, race-day nutrition, pacing strategy for ultras, hydration strategy, electrolyte balance, fueling for 100K, heat acclimation for runners, uphill hiking power, downhill technique, injury prevention, recovery protocols, strength training for trail runners, RPE-based training, night running skills, sleep strategy for 200 milers, trail shoe selection, hydration packs, mental resilience | |||
| #97 Troy Meadows with Guest Host Jon Eisen | Dark Divide, First DNF, & Failing Forward | 14 Oct 2025 | 01:47:26 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “Sometimes the trail strips everything away—and that’s the gift.” In this special episode of the MidPacker Pod, the script gets flipped. Host Troy Meadows hands over the mic to his new friend Jon Eisen, the host of the Running with Problems Podcast who guides Troy through a deep and personal look at his year—both on the trail and beyond it. From the emotional depths of the Dark Divide 100miler to the lessons of coaching and fatherhood, Troy opens up about failure, identity, and why doing hard things matters so much. The conversation goes beyond splits and mileage—this is about finding clarity in the pain cave, understanding when to pull back, and learning when to lean in harder. Troy shares how the brutal terrain of the Dark Divide wasn’t just a race—it was a reflection of the internal work he’s been doing to grow as an athlete, coach, and human. In this episode:
If you’re looking for something that will challenge you—inside and out—check out Dark Divide 100K. Relevant Links Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Troy Meadows, John Eisen, Dark Divide 100K, ultra running, coaching, vulnerability, trail running, emotional growth, personal development, failure, redemption, endurance racing, fatherhood | |||
| #96 Emory Atterberry | Running Leadville, The HyperLyte Crew Doing Hard Things, & That New New Product Drop | 07 Oct 2025 | 01:09:25 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “Sometimes your crew believes in you more than you believe in yourself—and that’s enough.” In this episode of the MidPacker Pod, Troy sits down with Emory Atterberry—a trail runner, creative, and co-founder of Hyperlyte Liquid Performance. What started as an idea with his friends turned into a performance nutrition brand powering up some of the gnarliest races out there. Emory takes us inside his Leadville 100 experience—his first 100-miler—and it’s packed with heart, grit, and some hilarious behind-the-scenes moments. From quad blowouts at mile 38 to a life-changing climb up Powerline in the dark, this race wasn’t just about finishing. It was about confronting pain, embracing vulnerability, and choosing to keep going when everything screamed "stop." In this episode:
Whether you’re training for your first 50K or your fifth 100, Emory’s story will remind you that the magic happens when you go deep—and don’t back down. Relevant Links Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com,Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Emory Atterberry, Leadville 100, Hyperlyte, endurance, ultra running, trail running, mental toughness, startup life, Andy Glaze, H2C, crew, DFL, redemption, perseverance, sports culture, long-distance running | |||
| #95 Jeff Waldmuller | Musician, Prosthetist, Para-Athlete, and Leadville Dreamer | 26 Sep 2025 | 02:02:03 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “I try not to let the accident define me, but rather the actions that I took after that define who I am.” This week, on the MidPacker Pod Troy Meadows welcomes Jeff Waldmuller, a true multi-hyphenate — musician, prosthetist, para-athlete, and relentless endurance junkie. Jeff’s story starts with music. He toured the world as a trumpet player, even performing with Emmy and Tony award-winning shows. But after a devastating motorcycle accident nearly cost him his arm and leg, Jeff made a bold decision to amputate below the knee and rewrite his story. That choice opened the door to running, triathlons, and ultra-endurance racing
Jeff’s journey is about resilience, creativity, and proving that identity isn’t defined by what happens to you — but by what you choose to do next. Relevant Links Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. H001 is a new hydration mix that has the carbs and sodium your body needs for high-output adventures in a single serving. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Jeff Waldmuller, prosthetist, para-athlete, Challenge Athletes Foundation, Ottobock, Paralympics, Leadville 100, ultrarunning, adaptive sports, endurance | |||
| #94: Ashley “Nelly” Nelson | Flyathlons, Boulder Collective, & Running with Purpose | 19 Sep 2025 | 01:12:32 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT "Flyathlon has this magical way of forcing you to be both present and patient. You can't rush a river, and you sure can't fake catching a trout." Ashley “Nelly” Nelson is a Boulder-based trail runner, flyathlon enthusiast, and community builder who brings heart, humor, and intention to everything she does. With roots in competitive sports and a creative spirit, Nelly blends trail running with fly fishing to reconnect with nature and redefine what movement can look like. She’s the founder of Boulder Collective, a social run club focused on inclusivity and post-run connection, and works professionally in regenerative food systems—aligning her values both on and off the trail. Nelly’s story is a powerful reminder that performance isn’t just about pace—it’s about purpose, play, and building a life you love. What We Talked About
Relevant Links and Resources
Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. H001 is a new hydration mix that has the carbs and sodium your body needs for high-output adventures in a single serving. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. trail running, flyathlon, community, sustainability, Boulder Collective, regenerative food, nature, recovery, creativity, inclusive running, environmental values | |||
| #93 Richard Abernathy | Dirty Wolf Racing, Creative Race Design, & Building Community on the Trails | 12 Sep 2025 | 01:08:04 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “I don’t want to just direct a race—I want to give people something they’ve never experienced before.” In this episode, Troy sits down with Richard Abernathy, the creative force behind Dirty Wolf Racing—a trail and ultra event series in North Carolina that blends storytelling, challenge, and community in unforgettable ways. From humble beginnings on a tiny track to directing races like Beast of the East 100, Stone Mountain Massacre, and the ever-whimsical LLAMA, Richard shares his wild journey from reluctant runner to race director, family man, and full-time adventure architect. Whether it’s mystery aid stations with elemental rocks or events that include llamas, Richard’s approach to trail running is one-of-a-kind—infusing play, grit, and heart into everything he touches. In this episode, Richard and Troy talk about:
Relevant Links Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. H001 is a new hydration mix that has the carbs and sodium your body needs for high-output adventures in a single serving. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Richard Abernathy, Dirty Wolf Racing, trail running, race director, Beast of the East, LLAMA Ultra, Stone Mountain Massacre, Hollowed Springs Art, ultrarunning, North Carolina trail races, creative race design, UltraSignup, family and running | |||
| #92 Jenny Maier | SFRC Origins, Trail Running Generations, Finding Your Passions & Giving Back Through Community | 04 Sep 2025 | 02:15:25 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “Sometimes doing 85% of the training is better if it means you still enjoy life.” In this episode of the MidPacker Pod, Troy Meadows sits down with trail runner, coach, and community builder Jenny Maier to talk about her winding journey from environmental lawyer to strength and mobility coach for runners. Jenny shares how she rediscovered running after a decade-long break, fell in love with the Marin trails through San Francisco Running Company, and built a career around helping everyday athletes thrive. Jenny reminds us that you don’t need to be an elite runner to deserve coaching—or to achieve extraordinary things. She’s an eight-time Javelina finisher, Western States lottery veteran, and soon-to-be Boston Marathon runner. Beyond racing, Jenny balances running with a love for poetry, puzzles, and her two wild dogs, proving that a full life off the trails makes the running journey richer. In this episode, you’ll hear about:
Whether you’re chasing a hundred-miler or just trying to fit runs into a busy life, Jenny’s story is a reminder that running is most rewarding when it fits into—not takes over—your life. Relevant Links Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. H001 is a new hydration mix that has the carbs and sodium your body needs for high-output adventures in a single serving. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Jenny Maier, San Francisco Running Company, SFRC, ultrarunning, trail running, Javelina Jundred, Western States lottery, Boston Marathon, trail running community, running coach, strength training, mobility, biomechanics, Dipsea Race, poetry, balance, midpack runners
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| #91 Phil Cutti | Ripple Beer Project, Headlands 50K, & From Stanford Physiology to Ultras | 28 Aug 2025 | 01:36:25 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “I am not producing beer just to produce beer. I am producing beer with the intention of building a community around an event.” This episode Troy Meadows talks with Phil Cutti. Troy and Phil unpack how science, sport, and brewing can feed each other in the best possible way. Listeners will hear a story about curiosity, community, and finding purpose after setbacks. Athlete section
Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. H001 is a new hydration mix that has the carbs and sodium your body needs for high-output adventures in a single serving. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Phil Cutti, Ripple Beer Project, Headlands 50K, Milo Foundation, Dipsea, exercise physiology, Stanford cooling glove, AlterG, Vasper, Gorge Waterfalls 100K, Hood Hundred, Marin County, fermentation, brewing, non alcoholic beer, ultrarunning, injury comeback, community building, trail running | |||
| #90 Emily Holland | Trail Running, Storytelling, and Building Community Through Creative Work | 21 Aug 2025 | 01:37:08 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT "I’m always asking: how do I support myself and support the people I care about? That’s what drives everything, from my training to my work to my relationships." Emily Holland turns the trail running tale on its head, going from hating pounding out miles to discovering healing in the dirt and roots. What started as a reluctant hike in the White Mountains turned into a full-blown love affair with ultra distances. She’s taken on the Gorge 50K earlier this year and is gearing up for the Grand Traverse this August—facing altitude, grit, and elevation head-on. Along the way, she discovered that trail running could be just as much about emotional health as it is about pushing pace. Beyond the trails, Emily wears all the hats: content strategist, operations whiz, community builder, and founder of Wild Poppy Creative. She supports running creators, builds inclusive content, and brings passion-driven structure to the outdoor media space. On top of that, she’s embraced an alcohol-free life, using that clarity to lean harder into creativity, connection, and her personal growth. Her Substack, Multifaceted Musings, is where her reflections and storytelling really shine. Motivational Takeaways
Relevant Links
Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. H001 is a new hydration mix that has the carbs and sodium your body needs for high-output adventures in a single serving. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today.
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| #89 Rini Sugianto | Western States Golden Hour Finish, Crafting a Mountain Life, & Just Say Yes | 14 Aug 2025 | 01:39:22 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “The adventure is the goal, not the finish time.” This week, the MidPacker Pod sits down with Rini Sugianto, an adventurer, animator, and trail runner whose journey proves that the best stories often come from the back of the pack. Born in Lampung, Sumatra, Rini’s early loves were animation and mountains. After moving to the U.S., she swapped ice axes and heavy packs for the freedom of trail running, a shift that unlocked a whole new way to explore. Her adventures span from Papua’s jungles to California’s peaks, including Malibu, Kilimanjaro, and Mount Whitney. Along the way, she discovered the beauty of moving simply and self-supported. At UTMB, Rini fought through illness and a delayed start, crossing the 100-mile finish just 30 minutes before cutoff. Then, in 2025, she made history as the first Indonesian woman to finish the Western States Endurance Run, clocking 29:29:03 and earning every second of that buckle. For Rini, it has never been about speed. It is about staying power, chasing big dreams, and finding joy in the adventure, whether that is racing qualifiers or fast-packing the Sierra and Tahoe trails. Motivational Takeaways
Relevant Links Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. H001 is a new hydration mix that has the carbs and sodium your body needs for high-output adventures in a single serving. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Rini Sugianto, Lampung, trail running, mountaineering, UTMB, Western States 100, back-of-the-pack, endurance, fastpacking, perseverance, ultrarunning | |||
| #88 Ann Ongena | A Golden Hour Hardrock Finish, Starting Late, & Running with Heart | 07 Aug 2025 | 01:30:17 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “I had a 10-year journey to Hardrock. And when I kissed the rock, it felt like all those years finally made sense.” In this episode, Troy sits down with Ann Ongena, a Belgian-born runner and mom of five who discovered running in her 40s and went on to become the final official finisher at the 2025 Hardrock 100—crossing the line with just seven minutes to spare. Ann's story is one of quiet persistence, deep community roots, and a love for the mountains that shaped her into an ultra-runner. From training with a Flemish-language Couch to 5K podcast in Malibu to building up to qualifiers like UTMB, Kodiak Ultra Marathons, and Ultra Tour Monte Rosa, she’s embraced every mile of the journey. We cover:
Ann’s story reminds us that age, pace, and finish time don't define us—showing up does. Relevant Links
Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. H001 is a new hydration mix that has the carbs and sodium your body needs for high-output adventures in a single serving. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Ann Ongena, Hardrock 100, Trail Running, Midpacker, Female Ultra Runner, San Juans, Trail Runners Club, UTMB, Kodiak, Ultra Tour Monte Rosa, Grandmother Runner, FKT, Perseverance, Grit, 100 Miles, Golden Hour Finish, Malibu Trails | |||
| #87 Julio Palma | Hope on the Hardrock Wait-List, Grit in the San Juans, & The Gift That is the Ultrarunning Community | 30 Jul 2025 | 01:43:07 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “Hope will bring you home—those words rode with me all 100 miles.” Julio Palma’s path from overwhelmed grad student to two-time Hardrock finisher is a testament to grit, generosity, and believing in second chances. Born in Mexico City, this Penn State chemistry professor first laced up in 2006 to outrun depression. Road marathons led to a JFK 50 debut, then a deep dive into East-coast classics like the Laurel Highlands 70 before joining the “Wild & Tough” fraternity at Hardrock 100, twice. In this episode listeners will hear:
Links:
Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. H001 is a new hydration mix that has the carbs and sodium your body needs for high-output adventures in a single serving. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Hardrock 100, Western States 100, Laurel Highlands 70, JFK 50, Barkley Fall Classic, wait-list, inclusion, trail running, ultramarathon, academic balance, family, Pennsylvania trails, Silverton, hope, community, treadmill training | |||
| #86 Michael Sugianto | Life Design, Following Your Passions, & Finding Trail Running | 19 Jul 2025 | 01:48:27 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “You’re never at the end... it’s always about the journey.” In this inspiring episode, Michael Sugianto, Calgary-based adventure and lifestyle photographer turned trail runner, shares a journey that will ignite your sense of wanderlust and grit. Michael Sugianto’s path is one of curiosity and courage. Originally trained as a chemical engineer at the University of Calgary, he found his true passion behind the lens and in the outdoors, turning a hobby into a thriving career as a full-time freelance adventure and lifestyle photographer. Over the past five years, Michael has built a reputation for capturing stunning landscapes and dynamic moments, working with brands like Canon and Hyperlite Mountain Gear. But his story doesn’t stop there, just a year and a half ago, Michael dove headfirst into trail running, blending his creative eye with the endurance world. In that short time, he’s already tackled the iconic Gorge Waterfalls 50K and claimed a podium finish at the rugged Arctic Triple in Norway. His journey exemplifies an adventurous mindset—pushing boundaries, embracing discomfort, and continuously seeking new ways to grow both creatively and athletically. Motivational Takeaways
Links & Resources
Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. H001 is a new hydration mix that has the carbs and sodium your body needs for high-output adventures in a single serving. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Ultrarunning, trail running, adventure photography, mountain ultramarathon, inspiration, Calgary, life design, Arctic Triple, engineering to adventure, Canon EOS, 2025 training | |||
| #85 Lindsey Dwyer | Full-Time Teacher, Cocodona 250 Podium & Running Through Adversity | 11 Jul 2025 | 01:14:38 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH
USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “This isn’t my last word with Cocodona. I’m turning this into unfinished business.” In this episode, Troy Meadows talks with Lindsey Dwyer—a full-time middle school PE teacher and elite ultra-runner who’s quietly been stacking some seriously impressive performances on the trails. Lindsey recently finished second at the 2025 Cocodona 250, clocking a time of 79 hours and 35 minutes while battling through a respiratory issue that made breathing, let alone running, feel nearly impossible. Troy and Lindsey dive into how she managed to keep pushing through the low moments of that race, how she juggles 100-mile training weeks with her responsibilities in the classroom, and why she’s heading back to UTMB with a big goal and even bigger fire. They talk about the importance of community, mental grit, and showing up fully in both running and life—even when things aren’t going your way. From major podiums like Brazos Bend and Miwok to the day-in, day-out grind of teaching and training, Lindsey brings a grounded, inspiring energy to everything she does. Whether you’re chasing your first ultra or eyeing 200+ milers, this conversation reminds us what’s possible when passion meets perseverance. Motivational Takeaways
Relevant Links Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. H001 is a new hydration mix that has the carbs and sodium your body needs for high-output adventures in a single serving. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Keywords:ultrarunning, trailrunning, Cocodona250, UTMBIndex, respiratorychallenge, teacherathlete, grit, trainingbalance, ultra‑podcast, SanFranciscoRunningCompany | |||
| #84 Adam Kimble | Pushing Limits, Legacy & the California Biodiversity Project | 04 Jul 2025 | 01:25:59 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “Collecting samples on the trail means your miles are contributing to conservation.” On this episode Adam Kimble joins Troy Meadows on the MidPacker Pod to share a story bursting with grit, adventure, and giving back with a cool initiative to help the Adventure Scientists California Biodiversity Project. Adventure Scientists California Biodiversity Project. adventurescientists.org/adam-kimble Adam’s Highlights
Motivational Takeaways
Community & Conservation
Adam's Links Website: https://adamkimble.com/media/about/ Adventure Scientists Links Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. H001 is a new hydration mix that has the carbs and sodium your body needs for high-output adventures in a single serving. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. ultrarunning, trailrunning, running, Badwater135, Cocodona250, Tahoe Rim Trail, FKTs, family‑balance, trail community, biodiversity, citizen science, Adventure Scientists | |||
| A History of Western States w/ Tim Twietmeyer & Andy “AJW” Jones-Wilkins | 25 Jun 2025 | 01:41:04 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “Aren’t you glad we don’t have to run this thing anymore?” – Tim The MidPacker Pod dives deep into the legend of Western States with two athletes who helped write it. Co-host MVD sits down with five-time champion Tim Twietmeyer—the only human with 25 sub-24-hour buckles—and Andy Jones-Wilkins, owner of ten straight silver buckles and seven top-ten finishes. Together they relive:
Take Action: Protect Our Trails
Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. H001 is a new hydration mix that has the carbs and sodium your body needs for high-output adventures in a single serving. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Western States, ultrarunning, Tim Twietmeyer, Andy Jones-Wilkins, MVD, Fire and Ice, Ice Cream Sandwich Run, Tarahumara, endurance, trail community, public lands, Patagonia, Outdoor Alliance | |||
| #83 Emory and Jeremy | Building Hyperlyte, Finding The Kid, & Running Every Step Of The Bear 100 Together | 19 Jun 2025 | 01:41:38 | |
The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: MidPack Musings SubStack Support the MidPacker Pod on Patreon. Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH USE PROMO CODE MIDPACKER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “Setbacks aren’t stop signs — they’re signposts to something greater.” Emory Atterberry and Jeremy Bohnett, founders of Hyperlyte Liquid Performance, join the MidPacker Pod to share their inspiring journey — from grassroots ultra runners to fueling revolutionaries in the endurance community. Athlete Journey & Achievements
Motivational Takeaways
Relevant Links
Partner Links: A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com,Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. H001 is a new hydration mix that has the carbs and sodium your body needs for high-output adventures in a single serving. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option. Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Run Trail Life - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase. Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. Freetrail - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Ultrarunning, ultrarunners, ultramarathon, endurance, Hyperlyte, hydration, electrolytes, Bear 100, Black Canyon 100K, injury comeback, trail community, documentary, Hans Troyer, Emily Hawgood, Hannah Allgood, Matt Daniels.
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