This is the second upload of this as the audio didn't come out great the first time around, especially in the first couple of minutes. Thanks for the feedback.

In this episode of Trails, Tales, and Fails, Max and Sarah sit down with ultra runner Tom Joly, who shares his incredible journey from triathlons to ultra running. We dive into his breakthrough performances, including finishing 16th at UTMB 2023 as the top UK finisher, setting course records, and transitioning from Ironman to elite ultra running. Tom opens up about his training, sponsorship deal with Kailas Fuga, and his goals of becoming a professional ultra runner. Tune in for a candid conversation on pushing limits and chasing big dreams in the world of ultra running!

Today, we’re joined by the incredible ultra runner Laura Watts, an endurance powerhouse who has tackled some of the most brutal races on the planet. She’s a three-time Badwater 135 finisher (with a fourth attempt coming up!), winner of the Winter Downs 100, Leeds Liverpool Canal Race, and Kennet and Avon Canal Race, and—just for fun—ran 52 marathons in 52 weeks. Whether it’s scorching heat or relentless mud, Laura doesn’t just survive—she thrives.

We dig into:
🏜 Surviving Badwater 135 – Running 135 miles through Death Valley at 50°C.
❄ Battling the Winter Downs 100 – Cold, hills, mud, and total darkness.
🏃 52 Marathons in 52 Weeks – How do you keep going when your body says no?
🔥 Extreme Heat vs. Cold – Which is tougher, and what’s next?
🤣 Fails, epic moments, and unexpected trail surprises.

Grab your hydration packs, lace up, and hit play! 🎧

If you love the pod, share it, rate it, and leave us a review—it helps more runners find us!

Join me as I interview ultra runner, full-time teacher, and busy mum, Sarah Page. Since starting ultra running in 2023, Sarah has won the UltraX Spring Series 75k, Centurion SDW100, NDW100, and finished a respectable 7th female in her first international race at the UTMB Istria 110k. We discuss how she fits ultra training into her busy schedule, also reveals her dream celebrity pacer.

What does it take to survive 268 miles of brutal winter conditions, 10,000m of climbing, and almost a full week of sleep deprivation? Meet Tim Secker, an ultrarunner who conquered the Montane Winter Spine Race in 166 hours and 17 minutes.

Tim is in his 50s and proves that grit, resilience, and mental toughness can prove to be more important than speed. In this episode, we break down, previous Spine failures, and his 2025 Spine Race experience, from battling extreme cold and relentless bogs to pushing through his darkest moments.

If you’re into ultra running, endurance mindset, or extreme racing, this one’s for you.

Arc of Attrition 100 – Debrief with Rob Nugent, Max Stuart & 2nd Place Female Sarah Page

Brutal weather before, relentless mud, and 100 miles of Cornish coastline—this year’s Arc of Attrition was one for the books! 🏃‍♂️💨

Join Rob Nugent as he sits down with Max Stuart and Sarah Page (2nd place female!) to break down their epic race experiences. From the toughest sections of the course to unexpected challenges and hard-earned lessons, they share the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

Whether you're training for your own ultra or just love a good race story, this episode is packed with insight, laughs, and some serious grit.

🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to like, share, and follow us on Spotify!

In this festive yet ultra-focused episode of Miles, Mishaps, and Mayhem, Max, Sarah, and Rob dive into the challenges of staying motivated and training over the Christmas period—balancing indulgence with endurance. They discuss preparing for the notorious Arc of Attrition 100, including kit essentials, and whether having a crew is worth the drama (spoiler: it depends who’s crewing!).

Expect plenty of laughs and some valuable tips to get you through the darkest days of winter running.

Whether you’re gearing up for an epic race or just trying to stay on track during the holidays, this episode has something for every ultra-runner. Tune in!

Max, Sarah and Rob dive into the unique challenges and opportunities of ultra-running from two distinct perspectives: James Yeardley, an experienced ultra-runner who has completed numerous races including Lakeland 100 and MDS, and Meg, a 22-year-old female athlete starting out in a sport where her demographic is significantly underrepresented. Through their stories, the podcast explores themes of mentorship, empowerment, and redefining limits across generations and genders.

Get ready for an episode packed with laughs and insight as Miles, Mishaps, and Mayhem chats with legendary Portsmouth runner Daniel Del Piccolo! We dive deep into the highs and lows of ultra running and how to survive the ultimate endurance challenge: balancing it all with relationships. Join hosts Max Stuart, Rob Nugent, and Sarah Page as they discuss secrets to keeping the peace at home. It’s ultra advice with a dash of chaos – don’t miss it!

Join Rob, Sarah, and I as we unpack some truly outrageous ultra running stories. From a stag do in Gdansk, to a bizarre encounter on the Centurion North Downs Way 100, the stories get wilder with every mile. And just when you think it can't get stranger, Rob reveals 2 Truths and a Lie that will leave you questioning reality. Plus, could peanut butter really solve a common ultra running problem? You won’t want to miss this one!

In this episode, I answer the question, 'what is the best exercise to do for ultra runners?'. Also, I interview road and ultra runner, and Instagram content creator, Gary Blackman. Join us, as Garry opens up on injury, social media, and his running journey, which has included 55 ultra events and marathons spanning 25 years. Enjoy.

Join me, as I interview friend, ex triathlete, and recently turned ultra runner, Ollie Roffey. We talk about mental health and discuss Ollie's transition from triathlon to ultra running.

Ultra runner Ricki Wynne joins Max, Rob and Sarah to share his journey from carpenter to world record-setter and Hoka Elite athlete. We dive into his biggest race highs and lows, training shifts that took him to the next level, and how he fuels his ultra efforts on a vegan diet. Plus, a game of ‘Truth or Lie’—can we catch Ricki out? Tune in for an epic conversation on endurance, mindset, and what’s next for 2025!

Join your hosts, Max and Rob, as they preview the anticipated Centurion Hundred Hills 50K race, taking place on March 15, 2025! With a challenging 50K course and 4,000 feet of elevation gain, this race promises to be an epic showdown. Whether you're running it or just following along, this episode has everything you need to know.

Max and Rob break down the race details, including a look at Centurion Running’s exciting new partnership with Precision Hydration, along with support from Tailwind Nutrition and GU Energy UK to keep runners fueled and hydrated.

They also dive into the top contenders in both the men’s and women’s fields, highlighting standout athletes like Julia Davis, Kallum Pritchard, Joseph Turner, and Rebecca Ash . Plus, they discuss recent performances and what makes these athletes the ones to watch.

If you’re racing or just keen to follow along, this episode will get you up to speed on everything you need to know about this epic race!

In this episode, we’re joined by Kallum Pritchard, fresh off an impressive second-place finish at the Hundred Hills 50k. We’ll hear about how this year’s race played out compared to 2024, the race dynamics with fellow contender Joseph Turner. Plus, we’ll discuss the infamous Barkley Marathons, which is currently happening—arguably the toughest ultra race in the world. Grab a seat and get ready for some inspiration, laughter, and lessons learned from the trail!

In this ep, we’re joined by the incredible Fi Pascall, fresh off her win at UTMB Chianti 100 miles, securing her golden tickets to UTMB and Western States! But that’s not all—Fi is also the founder of Trail Retreats, a weekend escape where runners can immerse themselves in stunning trails, food, and expert insights into ultra-running.

In this episode, we put Fi to the test with our favourite game: ‘Truth or Lie’—can we figure out which of her statements are fact and which are total fiction?

So, settle in and get ready for an epic conversation filled with ultra-running wisdom, behind-the-scenes race stories, and plenty of laughs. Let’s go! 🎙️🔥

This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails, we’re joined by the epic Holly Stables—former GB marathoner turned ultra adventurer.

From Comrades and UTMB to The Speed Project Solo, Holly ran 500km from LA to Vegas. Minimal sleep, 40°C heat, and one crazy adventure.

We dive into the highs, lows, mental battles, wild moments, and what this epic challenge taught her.

Short on sleep, full of stories—this one’s unmissable.

🎧 Like, share, and review to keep the pod growing!

From multiple Centurion 100-mile podiums to wins at the Arc100 and the Centurion Winter Downs 200, Laura Swanton-Rouvelin is one of the toughest names in UK ultra running. She’s also a Spine Race finisher—not just once, but three times—completing both the Winter and Summer editions. And just two months after this year’s brutal Winter Spine, she landed 3rd at the 2025 Northern Traverse.In this episode, we dive into how Laura prepares for these huge efforts, how she recovers and stays injury-free, and what keeps her going through dark winter miles and wild terrain.

In this episode of Trails, Tales, and Fails, we sit down with the ultra-running legend who became the first UK athlete to complete the Triple Crown of 200s in 2023 — and now he’s crushed the 304-mile Arizona 300, finishing 9th in just over 101 hours.

We dive deep into why Scott got into ultra running, and the highs, lows, hallucinations, and heatstroke of his epic races — plus what drives him to keep taking on the biggest, baddest ultras on the calendar. Expect tales of pain and a lot of grit.

CELEB PACER: Who would Scott choose to run a scorching desert leg with him? His answer might surprise you.

TRUTH OR LIE: Scott hits us with two outrageous statements — can we figure out what’s real and what’s pure ultra fiction?

QUICKFIRE ROUND: Hallucinations, dream races, go-to snacks, and why he might just choose cold weather over hot.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to run through day and night for four days straight — this one’s for you. Buckle up.

This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails, we sit down with one of the most consistent and inspiring forces in the ultra world — Andy Glaze. A full-time firefighter, father, and ultra runner, Andy has racked up over 250 consecutive weeks of 100+ mile training — and he's still smiling.

We dive into his epic Arizona 300 adventure, how he manages sleep deprivation, why kindness beats trolls, and the real mental tools that keep him moving through five-day races and daily chaos. From hallucinations and guilty pleasures to social media noise and the secret to sore feet recovery, Andy discusses it with honesty, humour, and heart.

Plus: celebrity pacer, guilty pleasures, fails, quickfire round, and the ultimate advice he’d give his younger self before his first ultra. Whether you’re chasing your first ultra or your first 100-mile week, this episode is packed with the grit, laughs, and real talk you need.

🎧 Grab your running shoes — and maybe some tape for your feet — and join us for a wild ride with Andy Glaze.

In this episode, we’re joined by David Miller, one of the most respected visual storytellers in the sport. A passionate runner turned award-winning photographer, David’s images from races like UTMB and the Barkley Marathons have become iconic — including the now-legendary shot of Jasmin Paris slumped under the yellow gate.

We chat about:

• David’s experience at Barkley and UTMB

• What makes a powerful ultra running photo

• His own racing highlights — including the ARC50 and UTMB Istria

• His celebrity pacer picks, guilty pleasures, and a game of truth or lie

  
  

🎁 We’re also giving away a signed copy of David’s bestselling photo book Do Not Block Gate — head over to our Instagram @TrailsTalesAndFails to enter.

If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating and share — it really helps us grow.

In this ep, we’re joined by Paul from Performance Gains Nutrition — a performance nutritionist, university lecturer, and ultra runner with over 80 ultras under his belt, including the UTMB TDS, Bob Graham Round, and Northern Traverse.

In this episode, we discuss gut training tips and strategies.

Plus, we hit Paul with our trademark podcast gauntlet:
🔥 Truth or Lie⚡ Quickfire Round🏃‍♂️ Celebrity Pacer🍫 Guilty Pleasure

Packed with laughs, insight, and no-nonsense advice from a guy who’s lived it — in the lab and on the trails.

🔗 Follow Paul on Instagram: @ultra.endurance.nutritionist
🌐 performancegainsnutrition.com

If you enjoy the episode, give us a share and leave a star review. It helps us reach more runners and tell more trail stories.

In this episode, we sit down with UK ultra talent Becky Perrett, fresh off a phenomenal 5th place finish at the UTS 100 miler — one of the toughest mountain ultras in the UK, with over 31,000ft (9,500m) of elevation gain.

We chat about:

• What it takes to train for massive mountain ultras

• Racing the UTS 100K vs the 100M
• Being coached by Jack Scott
• Her biggest lessons, fails, and moments of grit along the way

If you love mountains, mud, and relentless climbs — this one’s for you.

🎙️ Follow, share, and leave a review to keep the pod growing!

In this episode of Trails, Tales & Fails, we delve into the remarkable journey of Susie Chan—a Peloton instructor, ultramarathoner, social media influencer, and award-winning author. From her humble beginnings to conquering some of the world's most gruelling races, such as Badwater 135 and MdS. Susie's story is a testament to the power of determination and resilience. Her memoir, Trails and Tribulations: The Running Adventures of Susie Chan, recently won the Sports Performance Book of the Year at the 2025 Charles Tyrwhitt Sports Book Awards . Join us as we explore her evolution from someone who did not run to becoming a beacon of inspiration in the endurance community.

In this episode, we’re joined by local legend and friend of the pod Dave Harvey — ultra runner, metal guitarist, mental health champion, and co-host of our favourite local show: The Portsmouth Running Podcast.

From shredding riffs in Belligerence to shredding trails at UTMB, TDS, Lakeland 100, Western States, and every Centurion race going, Dave’s journey is nothing short of epic.

We dive into:

• Winning Cardiff to London and The Tunnel

• Logging 200-milers on Strava as “Morning run” 😎

• His love of posh coffee and hatred for Coldplay

• The crossover between music, mindset, and mental health

• Behind the scenes of SMOGATHON — the greatest unofficial race you’ve never heard of

• And plenty of tales from the trails, riffs, and aid stations

So lace up, plug in, and get ready to step inside the mind of a man who lives loud, runs long, and lifts others along the way.

🔥 Like the pod? Leave a review and share it with your crew — especially your local running mates in Portsmouth and beyond!

Today’s episode is a special one. We’re diving into the 2025 South Downs Way 100—a race that’s not just a UK classic anymore, but now part of the World Trail Majors. That’s right, the SDW100 has officially gone global.

While the front of the field was electric—Mark Darbyshire shattered the course record, Peter Newman went out like a rocket, and Lucy Gossage and Julie Davis delivered one of the most thrilling women’s races we’ve seen—we’re zooming in on a different kind of hero.

Our guest is a good mate, cohost of the pod, a seasoned ultra-runner, and someone I had the absolute pleasure of crewing alongside co-host Sarah. He ran a blistering 19 hours and 13 minutes, and we’re unpacking the hot, emotional, and snack-fuelled miles that got him there.

From the early climbs through the rolling Downs, to the dark hours of the night, to the final push into Eastbourne—we talk strategy, suffering, aid station saviours, and yes, a few fails along the way.

So lace up, grab a flapjack, and let’s get into it.

We’re back — and this week we’re diving deep into one of the toughest and most well supported ultras in the UK: the Montane Lakeland 100.

From Coniston to Coniston, the 103-mile loop through the Lake District serves up over 6,000m of elevation, technical trails, and usually unpredictable weather. Max and Sarah relive this year’s race:, sleep-deprived hallucinations, brutal climbs, and that unbeatable community spirit from all involved.

Sarah shares what it took to finish 3rd female and 13th overall in 24h40m, and we answer some great listener questions too.

Also, a shout out to Daniel and Rebecca, who we met at the campsite. Congrats to Daniel for getting his 500 slate.

Join our brand-new Facebook community group

Alan Bedford is raising money for Maggie's Centres
⭐ Like the pod? Please share and give us a 5-star review — it helps more than you know.

From the West Highland Way to UTMB, the Spine Race to Western States—Debbie Martin-Consani has carved out one of the most enduring careers in UK ultra running. In this episode of Trails, Tales, and Fails, we go behind the finish lines to explore Debbie’s journey, her race philosophy, and how she’s balanced competition, coaching, and family across decades on the trails.

We also dive into the whether female participation is becoming more balanced compared to male counterparts —what’s changed, what’s still missing, and what might start to level the start line.

Whether you're new to ultras or deep in the sport, this one’s packed with stories and the kind of trail truth you’ll carry into your next race. Enjoy.

We’re back! After a bit of a hiatus (training, coaching, crewing — life got busy!), Max, Rob, and James are here, while Sarah preps to take on the Lakeland 100. This episode dives deep into the grit, gear, and glory of summer’s toughest ultras.

We kick off with the Lakeland 100 & 50 — what makes it so brutal yet iconic? James shares his race mindset, and we chat about self-supported prep, and how runners handle mental lows without crew or course markings.

Then it’s off to the heat of the Western States 100 and Badwater 135 — where bears, 45°C heat, and elite performances from UK runners took centre stage. We also pause to reflect on the tragic events at this year’s Hardrock 100.

Finally, we break down Dan Lawson’s awe-inspiring South West Coast Path FKT: 630 miles in 9 days, 13 hours — no big sponsors, just trail shoes, guts, and a lot of trust in his crew.

Expect laughs, deep dives, and maybe a few rants — just your usual dose of Trails, Tales, and Fails.

📲 Follow, share, and drop us a rating if you enjoy the show!

268 miles. 155 hours. A few wrong turns. One bull. And a whole lot of grit and resilience.

In this episode of Trails, Tales & Fails, we sit down with an inspiring ultra runner who took on the Summer Spine and came out the other side with blisters, stories, and a finish line moment to remember. From getting lost in the forest, to stubborn livestock, and the mental rollercoaster of non-stop movement — this conversation is raw, funny, and extremely inspiring.

We talk feet, planning, hallucinations, sleep strategy, and how belief — both from within and from others — can get you to the end of even the longest trail.

An inspiring reminder that you don’t need to be at the front of the pack to have an epic story to tell.⁠Join our brand-new Facebook community group

This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails we’re joined by Darren Evans, founder of The Green Runners and Pair Ups — two movements changing the way we think about running and sustainability.

We dive into:
🏃 Darren’s ultra running journey and what inspired him to combine running with environmental action
👟 How Pair Ups helps extend the life of trainers and cut down waste
🌱 Practical steps runners and races can take to reduce their footprint
📝 Darren’s creative side with Three Word Odes — capturing the spirit of running in just three words

It’s an inspiring reminder that small changes — from repairing shoes to rethinking events — can add up to a big difference for the planet we love to explore.

👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.
💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our Patreon — every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.

🎧 Don’t forget to share the episode, leave us a rating, and help spread the word!

Max and Sarah sit down with elite ultra runner and passionate coach Chris Kelly. From his jaw-dropping 273km win at Albi 24hr to course records and podiums across the UK, Chris shares the mindset, training, and grit behind his success — including his selection for Team GB’s 24-hour squad and prep for the upcoming World Championships in Albi. We dive into coaching insights, play our usual games, and explore what it really takes to go the distance.

👉 Join our ⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.

💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠Patreon ⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.

Use code TTF15 at Protein Rebel for your 15% discount.

Welcome to our very first Ultra Tip Tuesday! In this short, practical episode, Max shares how to master layering so you stay warm, dry, and strong on the trails.

We’ll break down the three-layer system:
🧥 Base layer – sweat manager🧣 Mid layer – insulation🌧️ Shell – outer defense

You’ll learn about hydrostatic head, why breathability matters as much as waterproofing, and the common mistake most runners make at the start line.

👉 Key takeaway: Start cool, go windproof when it’s dry, save the waterproofs for biblical weather.

👉 Join our ⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠Patreon ⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.

🎧 Don’t forget to share the episode, leave us a rating, and help spread the word!

In this week’s Ultra Tip Tuesday, I'm diving into one of the most overlooked keys to endurance success: fuelling early and often. Whether you’re training for your first ultra or your fiftieth, timing your nutrition is just as important as what you eat.

I’ll break down why waiting until you’re hungry is too late, how to keep your energy steady with small, frequent fuel hits, and how to train your gut to handle fuel on the move. From gels to real food, this episode is all about keeping your engine running strong — and avoiding the dreaded bonk.

This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails, Max flies solo and is joined by returning guest Daniel, fresh off completing the 130-mile Leeds–Liverpool Canal Race.

We dive into:

• UTMB 2025 — snow at 2,500 m, frozen hands at night, and nearly 1,000 DNFs. With Tom Evans storming to victory, Josh Wade taking 3rd, and Courtney grinding through injury to finish 10th, it was a year of resilience as much as speed.

• The Leeds–Liverpool Canal Race — Daniel takes us step by step through 130 miles of towpaths and mental battles.

• Race Toughness Index (RTI) — our brand-new scoring system breaking races down across 10 categories (terrain, weather, aid stations, fatigue, etc.) for a total toughness score out of 100. Daniel gives the Canal Race its first ever official rating.

• Quickfire round — bucket-list races, forgotten kit, irrational pre-race rituals, and more.

👉 Join our ⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.

💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.

Use code TTF15 at ⁠Protein Rebel⁠ for your 15% discount.

This week on Ultra Tip Tuesday, Max dives into one of the most overlooked performance boosters in ultra running: sleep. From muscle repair and glycogen replenishment to mental resilience and injury prevention, sleep is your secret weapon. Learn how to optimise your sleep routine, avoid common pitfalls like caffeine and screen time, and treat rest like the training block it truly is. Your legs will thank you.

💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.

Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

Welcome back to Trails, Tales, and Fails! This week’s Ultra Tip Tuesday is all about the unsung heroes of your stride — your calves. Whether you're climbing, descending, or cruising through long miles, your calves are working overtime.

We break down the difference between the gastrocnemius and the soleus, why most runners neglect one of them, and how to train both for better performance, injury prevention, and smoother movement. From straight-leg to bent-knee calf raises, we’ve got the tips to build bulletproof lower legs.

🎙️ Want to support the pod? Check out our Patreon in the show notes.👟 Join our Facebook community to share your strength wins and fails — we’ve all had both.

This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails, Max and Sarah are joined by Seb Briggs and Emma Harris, fresh off their epic 37-hour, 57-minute finish of the Kerry Way Ultra. That’s 200km of Irish wilderness, bogs, climbs, and unpredictable weather. We break down the race step by step, score it using our Race Toughness Index, and dive into training, fails, and finish-line emotions. Plus: celebrity pacers, truth or lie, ultra guilty pleasures, and a quickfire round that reveals more than you'd expect.

Seb and Emma are part of the George & Falcon Runners, a friendly, inclusive trail running crew based in Hampshire. They meet regularly for social runs, training sessions, and big race adventures.

👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.

💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.

Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails, Max, Sarah Rob are joined by Victoria Henderson, fresh off her heroic finish at the Tor des Géants — a 330km monster through the Italian Alps with over 24,000m of elevation gain. That’s 145 hours of sleep deprivation, technical climbs, and weather that can swing from blazing heat to alpine snow.

We break down the race step by step, score it using our Race Toughness Index, and dive into training, and finish-line emotions. Plus: celebrity pacers, truth or lie, ultra guilty pleasures, and a quickfire round.

Victoria’s ultra resume is stacked: CCC 2021, TDS, 5th at Winter Downs 200, and 17th at Arc 100 earlier this year. But TDG? That’s a whole new level.

👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.

💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.

Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

This week, we’re talking pacing — the skill that separates finishers from faders. Whether you’re running a 50K or a 100-miler, smart pacing protects your body from bonking, inflammation, and breakdown.

We dive into the science behind restraint:

• Glycogen depletion and why fat-burning isn’t enough

• Cardiac drift and rising effort over time

• Muscle fatigue, form collapse, and injury risk

• Gut shutdown when blood flow prioritises your legs over digestion

• Why walking early climbs can save your race later

Plus: the talk test, segment thinking, and why patience is power.

💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.

Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

Ellen Cheetham went from London roads to French mountain trails — and landed on the podium at UTMB Nice 100 miler. In this episode, we unpack her transition to ultra running, the move to France, and what it takes to race 165 km from the Alps to the Mediterranean.

👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.

💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.

Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

This week on Trails, Tails and Fails, Rob and Sarah relive the Jurassic Coast Maverick 50K — a race full of coastal climbs, wrong turns, and one spectacular kit fail that nearly ended things before the start line. Sarah took the win and Rob had a great run to take 10th.

👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.

💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.

Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

This week we sit down with Charlie Steward — fresh off what many are calling the worst conditions in Moab 240 history. Think rain, snow, high winds, falling trees, and actual mountain lions. Charlie says the race broke him in every single way — physically, mentally, emotionally — and yes, he really did cut open his own feet mid-race to relieve pressure.

We talk Ironman roots, hallucinations, sleep strategy (or lack of), and what it takes to survive 238 miles of chaos through Utah’s desert and mountains. It’s raw, intense, and a masterclass in suffering with purpose.

👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.

💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.

Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

Charlotte Fisher is having a breakout year — and we’re here for it. From her early win at North Downs Way 100 to podiums at UTS, Lakeland, and Mallorca by UTMB, she’s proving she’s one of the fiercest rising stars on the European ultra scene. In this episode, Charlotte opens up about the highs and lows of racing 140KM through technical terrain in Mallorca, how she’s evolved as an athlete in 2025, and what keeps her grounded when the trails get tough. We dive into training shifts, recovery rituals, race-day mindset, and yes — her guilty pleasure post-race treat. Whether you’re chasing your own ultra goals or just love hearing how the best do it, this one’s packed with insight, grit, and inspiration.

👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.

💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.

Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

In this episode, Max and Rob chat to fellow Protein Rebel ambassador, Alex Bance, who didn’t just run an ultra — he ran 300 miles, self-navigated, unrecced, and with minimal support, all to raise money and awareness for a children’s hospice close to his heart, Julia's House.

We unpack the soaring highs to the crushing lows, kit disasters, hallucinations, moments of kindness, and the mental resilience needed to keep moving when everything says stop.

Expect raw honesty, wild stories, training insights, and lessons for anyone looking to push beyond their perceived limits.

If this episode inspires you, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies — it really helps the show grow.

👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.

💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.

Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

From signing up to her first ultra with just three days’ notice, to conquering the legendary Dragon’s Back and setting multiple Fastest Known Times, Lizzie — better known as Ultra Mad Lizzie — has built a reputation for resilience, grit, and determination.

In this episode of Trails, Tales, and Fails, Lizzie shares her journey through the unique world of backyard ultras — a format that tests mental strength as much as physical endurance — and her recent victory at the notorious Copthorne 100, a race infamous for its brutally low finish rate.

Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.

Lizzie is a proud ambassador for Protein Rebel and sponsored by Snack’d — fuelling epic endurance feats with sustainable energy.

If this episode inspires you, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies — it really helps the show grow.

👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.

💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.

Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

Jade Barrett has taken endurance to extraordinary heights. In 2025 she completed the Centurion Double Slam on her way to running every Centurion event in a single year. She also raced the legendary ⁠Arc 100⁠ in January. Most recently, Jade conquered the Winter Downs 200, finishing in an astonishing 76 hours and 58 minutes.

This year’s Winter Downs was one for the history books, with Caspian James setting an epic course record of 43:38. Against that backdrop, Jade’s own finish was a masterclass in resilience, pacing, and determination.

In this episode of Trails, Tales, and Fails, we dive into Jade’s race experience: the conditions and the mental and physical strategies that carried her through nearly 77 hours of running. We also explore how she balances recovery, crew support, and the sheer mental toughness required for this scale of mileage.

While this time of year is exciting for many, we know Christmas can be difficult for some. If you’re finding December tough or feeling a bit lonely, you’re welcome to reach out on Instagram for a friendly chat.

If this episode inspires you, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies — it really helps the show grow.

Don’t forget to⁠ click here⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.

👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.

We are proud to be partnered with Protein Rebel. Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

Trish Patterson joins us fresh off her incredible Winter Dragon’s Back FKT — a huge achievement made even more impressive by the rocky road leading up to it. Weeks before the attempt, Trish sprained her ankle. Then came missed training weeks, lingering fatigue, and a build‑up that was anything but smooth.

In this episode, we dive into Trish’s journey: how she handled setbacks, what the Winter Dragon demanded physically and mentally, the conditions underfoot, pacing decisions, crew strategy, and the mindset required to keep pushing when the plan falls apart. We also explore recovery, long‑term health, and what it takes to stay motivated through big efforts.

We’re proud to be supported by Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.

Don’t forget to⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.

👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.

If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails, we dig into one of the smartest — and most overlooked — ways to build race‑day confidence: training on terrain that actually mirrors your goal route. Rocky, muddy, flat, hilly, or wildly technical, every surface teaches your body something different.

In this Ultra Tip Tuesday episode, we break down how to sharpen your weaknesses early in the training cycle, build durability without pressure, and dial in true race‑day specificity as your event approaches. You’ll learn how to balance technical skill‑building with injury prevention, get creative when you don’t have access to the perfect trails, and discover why even one long run on race‑like terrain can transform your confidence.

If you want fewer surprises on race day — physically and mentally — this episode gives you the blueprint for showing up ready, not rattled.

For coaching enquiries, DM me on Instagram or click here.

We’re proud to be supported by ⁠Protein Rebel⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by ⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠BV Sports⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠Näak Nutrition⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.

Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.

👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.

If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

Welcome back to Trails, Tales, and Fails — the podcast where we celebrate the highs, the lows, and everything in between on the ultra-running journey.

Today’s episode is a little different. It’s just the three of us — Max, Rob, and Sarah — catching up, talking training, and looking back on 2025 with a fun (and slightly chaotic) quiz based on our previous guests. Expect confident guesses, very shaky answers, and a surprising amount of disorder.

We also dive into where everyone’s at right now:

• Sarah is deep into her build-up for the Spine Challenger South, juggling winter miles, kit admin, and long dark days.

• Rob is gearing up for the Arc 100, while Max is preparing for the Arc 25.

We talk honestly about training through winter — the highs, the setbacks, the kit that’s actually working, and the mindset shifts needed when motivation dips and conditions get tough. As always, we share lessons and tips that might help you navigate your own winter running.

We’re proud to be supported by ⁠Protein Rebel⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by ⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠BV Sports⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠Näak Nutrition⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.

Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.

👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.

If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

Ultras aren’t usually lost because you’re not fit enough — they’re lost because of one bad decision made when you’re tired, cold, or emotional.

In this week’s Ultra Tip Tuesday, we introduce the Traffic Light Decision System: a simple framework to help you make smarter calls during long runs and race day.

Learn how to:

• Keep moving when things are green

• Monitor and manage problems early when they’re amber

• Act immediately when things turn red — no ego, no delay

This episode is all about staying calm, avoiding unnecessary stops, and knowing when stopping is the smartest move you can make.

Train smart. Race smart. Finish strong.

For coaching enquiries, DM me on Instagram or ⁠click here⁠.

We’re proud to be supported by ⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by ⁠⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠⁠BV Sports⁠⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠⁠Näak Nutrition⁠⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.

Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.

👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.

If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.