This week on the podcast Allison McFadden, an accomplished trail runner, shares her running journey and recent achievements in the trail racing world. She discusses how she got into trail running and her love for the sport. Allison also talks about her experience running from one tip of Nova Scotia to the other, raising money for the IWK. She highlights the importance of women's participation in trail running and the inspiration provided by female role models. Allison shares her future plans, including taking time to recover and preparing for a sailing adventure with her family.

The boys also announce their partnership with Resilience through Fitness. Founder Deven Kennedy created RTF to help first responders and the general population achieve their full potential and partnering with RTF to be our title sponsor for Season 3 was a great fit. If you'd like to know more about them you can check out their website resiliencethroughfitness.com

In this episode, Geoff and Brandon discuss the runner's funk and share tips on how to overcome it. They explore the idea of trying new running routes, going back to basics, and participating in social runs. They also discuss the pressure of setting goals and the importance of making running a lifestyle choice.

Brandon and Geoff recap their trip to Wentworth, Nova Scotia, where they participated A Weekend At Wentworth. They discuss their Airbnb experience, the lack of amenities, and their post-race meal at a dive bar. Brandon shares his experience of completing his first ultra marathon, while Geoff talks about his race strategy and the supportive community they encountered. They share some of the memorable moments from the race including their experiences running a 50K race. They share their thoughts on nutrition, including eating Sour Patch Kids and drinking Coke.

Brandon and Geoff record together for the first time in the beautiful Wentworth Valley. They discuss their upcoming 24-hour race and their lack of preparation. They talk about their training, their race goals, and the snacks they plan to bring. We take a second to chat about the Big Backyard Ultra and their admiration for the Last Man Standing style of race. They discuss their travel experiences and the challenges of packing for a long race. Stay tuned to see how they make out with Part 2

The Rompin' Rockwood trail race in Atlanta, Canada was a challenging and exciting event that brought together runners from all over. The race featured impressive winners, amusing anecdotes, and unexpected events, making it a memorable experience for all participants. The course was technical and demanding, with steep hills and rocky terrain, but the organization, marking, and volunteer support were exceptional. Overall, the race received high praise and left a positive impression on the participants. Geoff and Brandon discuss their recent race experiences, focusing on the challenges, community support, and the importance of staying connected with the running community. They share insights on the impact of positive encouragement and the value of being present at race events.

Shawn McCardle shares his trail running journey, starting from road races to marathons and eventually transitioning to ultras and trail running. He discusses the challenges and rewards of running long distances and pushing his limits. Shawn also talks about the trail running scene in PEI, including the growth of races and the beautiful trails available. He highlights Bonshaw Provincial Park as a must-visit spot for trail running in PEI.

Geoff and Brandon finish off the episode with a huge debate about Jam!

Summary

Mark McCoglan discusses his involvement with Saint John Trail Running and the recent success of the intro group. Mark also talks about his role as a race director and the planning process for premier races in Atlantic Canada.

The conversation ends with a lighthearted discussion about Atlantic Canada's largest Trail race the Rompin' Rockwood. Mark discusses the new trail sections and the increase in race participants. He also mentions the addition of swag and other activities, such as a coffee truck and lawn games, to enhance the race experience.

The boys finish off by announcing a contest for a FREE registration to the Rompin' Rockwood.

In this episode, Brandon and Geoff discuss Geoff's first ultra marathon experience at the Hanwell Hammering race. They talk about Geoff's race strategy, fueling, and the emotional roller coaster he went through during the race. They also highlight the supportive trail running community and the importance of encouragement from fellow runners. Geoff shares his recovery process and his plans for future races.

Geoff and Brandon finish off by trying to guess discuss the gross topics that are commonly discussed within the trail running community. They end the conversation by discussing their upcoming ultra marathon races.

In this episode, Brandon and Geoff discuss their upcoming trail race, Geoffs accidental 25K run, and their training progress. They also talk about the challenges of running with children and share their experiences with foot pain. The conversation then shifts to discussing recent trail race preview videos and the documentary about Jim Walmsley's race at UTMB. Finally, they discuss their dream locations to live and the factors they consider, such as proximity to water and mountains. In this conversation, Brandon and Geoff discuss various topics including language barriers, music playlists, electric cars, and upcoming trail races. They share personal anecdotes and opinions, providing a lighthearted and humorous tone throughout. The conversation concludes with their excitement for the upcoming trail running season.

They boys sit down with Dan Meades who went from full paralysis to running ultra marathons. Along the way they also talk about the great running scene in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

This week the guys talk underwear! Also how do you handle feeling anxious about a run?

The boys chat with runner Alex Hermason about life as a runner on instagram, the importance of creating welcoming spaces for runners and of course FOOD.

You can follow Herm here

In this episode Mark Hemmings shares his trail running journey, from starting with road races to transitioning to trail running and eventually tackling the Capes 100. He emphasizes the importance of learning from the greats and going all-in when pursuing a new challenge. Mark also highlights the joy of running with his daughter and the beauty of the Cape Breton course. He discusses the logistical aspects of the race, including crew support and drop bags, and shares his experience running through the night and encountering challenging weather conditions. Mark shares his experience of running the CAPES 100 race and pushing himself to finish strong.

Mark talks about his why behind this challenge, to create a documentary about turning 50 and pushing himself to do something previously believed to be impossible.

We finish off by discussing the intersection of photography and running, how they enhance each other, and the joy of documenting his trail running journeys.

markhemmings.com

Instagram: @markhemmings

This week the guys talk training plans. They break down some of the best paid and free plans. Plus they talk about the best holiday meals and who the best action movie hero is Stallone, Arnold or Willis?

This episode the guys talk old man injuries, the Barkley and they sit down with Tyler Isbister the Race Director for Highland Trail Running and they talk about the exciting race season in beautiful Antigonish County.

This week Brandon and Geoff spend some time talking about what races they'll be involved and reflecting on what they'd do differently if they could start trail running all over again. They finish off the episode looking at what super powers they would use to make them better at trail running. Hope you enjoy!

This week Geoff and Brandon have a conversation with brother and sister duo Jackson Jones and Katie Bell. In a real and authentic way you hear them share their journey from joining an intro to trail running group to running ultras. It's a lot of laughs and a lot of great advice on trying trail running for the first time.

Brandon and Geoff are back for Season 2! They kick off the season with a conversation with ultra runner Reid Burrows.

On this episode we talk Love and David Goggins!

We have guest Alex Quinn on as he updates us on the work he's doing raising awareness for Suicide Prevention as well as this years 4x4x48 challenge.

In this special episode Geoff and Brandon get in the holiday spirit and talk about their favourite Christmasy things and there's a chance to win a great Christmas Gift!

As the boys wrap up their inaugural season they spend some time reflecting on the year and teasing what is upcoming for Season 2.

This week the guys talk about their favourite Halloween Candy and have Race Director and head of Saint John Trail Running Mark McColgan on to share some great tips for running a great race at the Bootstrap Boogie.

This week the boys sit down with Olympic Canoeist and Chief Growth Officer for Made with Local Bars Andrew Russell.

Made with Local bars have quickly become a huge game changer in trail running nutrition and so Brandon and Geoff sit down and talk with Andrew about his experience in Beijing as well as what it's like leading a fast growing organization that cares about how they operate.

The Chasing Trails Podcast

Made with Local Bars

In this episode, Geoff and Brandon discuss the most self-conscious things about trail running and the worst things about adulting. They give their bronze, silver, and gold answers for each topic. In this conversation, Brandon and Geoff discuss their self-consciousness about certain aspects of trail running. They share their personal experiences and frustrations, including crop dusting, pointy nipples, chafing, and sweaty clothes. They also talk about the challenges of adulting, such as car repairs, buying expensive items that aren't fun, and the constant need to sweep the floors. They conclude by discussing how they've become like their parents and the things that bother them now. Overall, the conversation is light-hearted and relatable, highlighting the humorous side of trail running and adulthood.

You will be encouraged by John's amazing story of perseverance. We hope that you'll enjoy hearing John's story as she shares about overcoming some major life challenges.

The Chasing Trails Podcast

Saint John Trail Running

This episode the boys share some big news about the podcast.

We talk Turkey, AI and old home remedies!

Check out our NEW Facebook page!

Facebook

Instagram

In this episode Jill Stockton from Stockton Health Group teaches the guys how important it is to stretch and how some simple weight training can really supplement and enhance your running.

Stockton Health Group

ARK Health Collective

The Chasing Trails Podcast

This week the guys talk about Geoff's 100k bike ride for cancer, the struggle with Fall motivation and whether they could survive a zombie apocalypse.

This week we chat with ultra runner Tim McDonough as he shares about his recent experience running the PTL as a part of the UTMB series. He shares about his love for training and how that has translated into some pretty amazing experiences.

Follow us on Instagram:

Tim McDonough

The Chasing Trails Podcast

This week the boys spend some time talking about the future of the podcast and their own personal Mt Rushmore of flavour combos.

Follow the show on instagram:

The Chasing Trails Podcast

Geoff Leblanc

Brandon Thompson

This week the boys chat with Jason White and Pete Smith the founders of All Out trail racing based out of Halifax Nova Scotia. We talk about some of the amazing races they have planned and an overall look at what the trail racing scene is like in Nova Scotia.

You can find out more about All Out by checking out their instagram page:

All Out Trail Racing

The Chasing Trails Podcast

Geoff Leblanc

Brandon Thompson

This week Brandon and Geoff break down all things Looney Loops. The ups, the downs, the mud and the beauty of the trail running community. Listen is as they break down New Brunswicks first ever 24 hour race.

Follow the chasing trails podcast on instagram:

Chasing Trails Podcast

In episode 12 on the eve of Looney Loops the boys talk with Catherine about the importance of proper nutrition in training. We break down simple and complex carbs while Catherine does her best to help us not be fat.

This week is a delicious blend of topics as the boys cover everything from their favourite trail running doc, to childhood trauma to fighting black bears.

They also launch their "sharing is caring" contest that you'll want to check out.

Instagram:

@chasingtrailspodcast

Colin Swift, a trail runner and shoe reviewer, shares his running journey and love for trail running. He discusses his transition from team sports to running and how podcasts and books inspired him to start running. Colin also talks about his recent documentary on the Fundy Footpath FKT and his passion for ultra running. The conversation then shifts to sneakers, with Colin providing recommendations for different categories, such as first-time trail runners, door-to-trail shoes, and more. In this conversation, Colin Swift discusses different types of trail running shoes based on specific needs and preferences. He recommends the Nike Pegasus Trail and Solomon Max Glide for beginners, the Hoka Speedgoat and Solomon Ultra Glide as daily trainers, and the North Face Vectiv Pro and Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra as high-end race shoes. For those on a budget, he suggests looking for last year's models or considering the Solomon Ultra Flow and Brooks Divide. Colin also emphasizes the importance of finding the right fit and considering factors like cushioning, stack height, and drop.

Colins' Youtube channel

On their 10th episode the boys sit down the Alex and listen to his powerful story overcoming anxiety and mental health challenges and using running to help spread awareness about suicide prevention through the transcendence 100.

If you'd like to know more about the transcendence 100 you can go to https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=682590673896905&set=a.562590079230299

On Instagram:

Alex Quinn

Chasingtrailspodcast

Geoff

Brandon

This week Geoff and Brandon spend some time talking about the battle that happens between our ears as well as some ways to combat the negative thoughts that pop up on the trail.

Follow the podcast on Instagram:

chasingtrailspodcast

Geoff

Brandon

This week the boys sit down with with Mark McColgan and talk all things trail running from hearing Mark's own personal running journey to how how much joy he finds in race directing. It's a great chat with lots of laughs.

Instagram:

@chasingtrailspodcast

@geoffreyleblanc

@brandonscthompson

If you're interested in running in Looney loops you can register by going here

In this episode the boys talk about their wet hike up Mount Carleton as well as the nutrition Rubik's cube.

Follow us on instagram:

@chasingtrailspodcast

@geoffreyleblanc

@brandonscthompson

This week the boys sit down with Sarah Lamos and talk community! Sarah is the crew chief for the Saint John Trail Runners Women's group. We talk leadership, vulnerability and how great it is to celebrate.

You can follow Sarah's blog https://sarah7106.wixsite.com/sarahsblog?fbclid=IwAR3_Nl7MR7FbHWS2hhPo8YhACG3iaGjahEYEy1dOK9Klj1tEKludyhWf7gI

Instagram: @chasingtrailspodcast

@geoffreyleblanc

@brandonscthompson

This week the boys talk about gym fights, Geoff's 50k proposal and they get in the summer groove by talking about their favourite running tunes and snacks.

Follow the Chasing trails podcast on Instagram:

@chasingtrailspodcast

@geoffreyleblanc

@brandonscthompson

Register for Loonie Loops - https://raceroster.com/events/2023/72409/loonie-loops

Check out the Raccoons

This week Brandon and Geoff talk about finding Brandon some new shoes, W4 and dealing with regret.

Follow Geoff and Brandon on Instagram:

@chasingtrailspodcast

@geoffreyleblanc

@brandonscthompson

Looney Loops -

This week we talk negative reviews, Fathers Day and we have a great sit down conversation with Brian Demmings. He shares about the mindset he has going into ultra marathons and the power of community.

Check us on Instagram:

@chasingtrailspodcast

@geofferyleblanc

@brandonscthompson

This week Brandon and Geoff talk about Backyard Ultras, Grilled Cheese Sandwiches and what makes the perfect trail

Gaspesia 100 https://gaspesia.org/ultra-trail/

Loonie Loops - https://www.saintjohntrailrunning.com/loonieloops

We'll be working on refining the podcast in the episodes to come. Let us know if there are any topics you'd like us to talk about or cover in future episodes.

In this episode of the Chasing Trails podcast, Geoff and Brandon discuss their experiences with training and racing during the hot summer months. They also introduce their new merchandise, a limited edition Chasing Trails mug. The hosts then play a game of 'Would You Rather' with trail running-themed scenarios. In this part of the conversation, Brandon and Geoff discuss various hypothetical scenarios and share their preferences such whether they would rather be crewed by their own kids or each other's kids in a race, and whether they would choose to have a sixth child or run ultras barefoot. They also discuss eating a quesadilla with expired cheese or drinking raw milk, DNFing a race at kilometer one or kilometer 99, choosing between winning a race or receiving $1 million, and slipping and falling in their own vomit or someone else's vomit on the race course.

It's bound to entertain.

In this conversation, Kelsey Hogan and Adam Fearnall share their running stories and their love for trail running. They discuss how trail running brings them a sense of playfulness, curiosity, and connection to themselves, others, and the natural environment. They also talk about the challenges of balancing trail running with their relationships and responsibilities.

Kelsey who is ranked third in the World Trail Majors shares her experience at the Quebec Mega Trail (QMT) 100-mile race. A course she knows well by setting a course record in 2023.

Adam and Kelsey both emphasize the importance of celebrating the achievements of all runners and the supportive trail running community.

Adam discusses his involvement with the Worga Foundation, which provides supports to Mabaan Youth in South Sudan to pursue their educational dreams. They also talk about their passion for justice and their involvement with various non-profit organizations.

In terms of mental hurdles in trail running, they emphasize the importance of embracing and befriending the thoughts, emotions, and sensations that arise during training and races. They also discuss their recovery process after running 100-mile races and share their upcoming goals, including Kelsey's participation in the Ultra Trail de Mont Blanc and Adam's continued involvement in trail running.

@kelseypamela wanted to thank her sponsors @nordarun and @backtrailsnbfor their support.
You can follow her season on Kelsey’s crew, click below to subscribe:

@adamfearnall dedicated his efforts at the QMT to the Worga Foundation and you can support him here:

Brandon and Geoff discuss their recent vacations and training updates. Brandon shares his experience in New York City and his hamstring injury, while Geoff talks about his vacation in PEI and his consistent training. They also announce the upcoming release of a custom-made Chasing Trails mug.

They also interview Cody Cooper, a trail runner and mountain biker who shares his journey into trail running and the intersection between cycling and running. He discusses his love for being in nature and the mental and physical challenges of endurance sports. Cody also talks about his upcoming documentary project and the mental discoveries that come from pushing oneself in endurance activities.

This week the boys breakdown their race experience from the Seaside Scramble in Halifax Nova Scotia and the East Coast Beast Coast Run in Saint John, New Brunswick.

They share about their experience running on some amazing terrain as well meeting a very friendly beach goer. The episode finishes with a special interview with Amelia and Adeline Leblanc who ran their first EVER trail race.

This week the boys sit down with Lee Murphy, winner of the Keji Big Backyard Ultra, a last man standing race where participants run a 6.7 km loop every hour. He talks about the challenges of sleep deprivation, the camaraderie among runners, and the support of his crew. Lee talks about reaching his 200-mile goal while emphasizing the importance of having fun and staying mentally and emotionally healthy during ultra races. He also discusses his future goals, including the Capes 100 race and as the silver ticket winner his entrance into the upcoming World Team Championships in October.