Explore every episode of the podcast Cultra Trail Running
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
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| 367: Miles Victors: From 450 Pounds to 420 Miles, Finding "Enough" in the Pain Cave | 24 Sep 2026 | 01:30:59 | |
Miles Victors is back on Cultra with a story that goes way beyond running. In 2022, Miles Victors weighed 450 pounds and needed a cane to walk. A half-mile trip to a pharmacy became the beginning of a transformation that took him from 3,000 steps a day to 100-mile races and eventually to a much deeper realization: he was enough. Miles talks about his weight-loss journey, addiction, mental health, his Wasatch 100 DNF, the voices in his head, and the powerful experience in the Copper Canyons that changed his perspective on running and his purpose. Now he's putting that purpose into action. On October 10th, Miles plans to run 420 miles across Utah in seven days, raising $25,000 for Still I Run, an organization that uses running and community to support people struggling with mental health. We also get into Luna sandals, exposed Utah roads, 55–60 mile days, crew logistics, dirtbag races, Born to Run, wasps, and why sometimes the most important thing you can do is simply keep moving forward. We are so glad to have our long time supporter and number 1 Utah Cultra Personality back on. You are enough. Miles Victors' Link Tree to Connect with it all! Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Note: AI tools used to create final song Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 366: Kat Bright: Jumping Over the Pennsylvania AT FKT Motherhood, Mindset & the Pursuit of More | 09 Sep 2026 | 02:17:11 | |
Patreons First, then on to the show: Motherhood, Mindset & the Pursuit of More What happens when a former collegiate high jumper, coach, mother and lifelong athlete decides to find out just how far she can push herself? Kat Bright joins Art, Anna G. and Phred to talk about her incredible journey from high-level track and field to ultrarunning—and the very personal path that eventually led her to a supported FKT on the Pennsylvania section of the Appalachian Trail. Kat covered roughly 230 miles and 31,000 feet of elevation gain in 4 days, 2 hours, 41 minutes and 10 seconds, traveling from the Delaware Water Gap area south toward Maryland. But the FKT is only part of the story. Kat talks openly about two dramatically different pregnancies, including one that required her to spend the entire pregnancy on bed rest before an emergency C-section at 32 weeks. During that period, she used sports-psychology visualization to mentally run the trails and tracks she couldn't physically access. Running eventually became part of her recovery and a way to reconnect with a body she felt she had lost trust in. We get into her evolution as an ultrarunner, including a difficult first Eastern States 100 where she finished DFL with only minutes to spare—and how that experience eventually convinced her that she was capable of much more. Kat explains how she prepared for the Pennsylvania AT while balancing two kids, family responsibilities, a business and all the normal chaos of life. Her training included treadmill work, repeated runs on familiar trails, and deliberately boring sessions designed to prepare her brain for the monotony of hundreds of miles. Kat also talks about her coaching business, where she works primarily with women 35 and older. Her philosophy is refreshingly realistic: training doesn't have to be perfect to work. Missed workouts happen. Life happens. Sometimes you only have 10 or 15 minutes. The goal isn't perfection. It's showing up repeatedly. She discusses strength training, cardiovascular fitness, mobility, pregnancy and postpartum training, perimenopause and menopause, and why women shouldn't allow age, motherhood or hormones to define what their bodies are capable of. At the heart of the conversation is a simple idea that applies far beyond running: You don't have to feel motivated to take the first step. The voice of doubt never completely disappears. But the more you show up, the quieter it becomes. And sometimes, when you're standing at the trailhead wondering if you have any business attempting something completely ridiculous, the answer is simply: Fuck it. Let's go for it. https://www.instagram.com/milesfromherview https://www.instagram.com/katfitstrength/ Website: www.kat.fit Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 365 Vermont 100: Death Marches, Dream Crews & Six Ibuprofen | 01 Sep 2026 | 01:43:17 | |
The Cultra crew gets together for a full-on Vermont 100 debrief with Josh Gaetjen, Christian Dockum, Chase Smith and Marc Kelly who all finished the 2026 VT 100 between 18:19 and 20:15. The conversation covers the highs, lows, suffering and fun of one of the Northeast's classic 100-milers including what happens when your legs fall apart, your stomach quits, and you decide that six ibuprofen during a 100-mile race is a good idea. Chase Smith joins the conversation just days after his wedding to recap his Vermont 100 experience, including a dramatic mid-race collapse, a comeback up the field, severe stomach problems, and an extremely unpleasant final quarter of the race. The guys also dig into the crew experience and how seeing familiar faces at aid stations can keep a runner moving when things get ugly. Art and the crew talk about the strange but wonderful relationships that develop between runners, crews and volunteers over the course of a 100-mile race. There's plenty of discussion about what makes the Vermont 100 special, including its incredible community atmosphere and the fact that it is essentially a world-class 100-mile race in the backyard of many Northeast runners. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 364: Kaylee Frederick- The Inner Voices of The Eastern States 100 Champion | 17 Aug 2026 | 02:14:54 | |
At just 21 years old, Kaylee Frederick has already established herself as one of the most exciting young ultrarunners on the East Coast. She ran her first 100 miler at 16 years old, and when she was 18 became the youngest ever finisher of The Badwater 135. In 2026, she won the Eastern States 100 outright, setting a new women's course record in brutally hot conditions. She also completed the Pennsylvania Triple Crown, finishing as the overall fastest person and Queen of the Mountain. But Kaylee's story goes well beyond race results. In this episode, Kaylee talks about discovering running as a kid, finding ultrarunning at 14, losing her father at age six, and how those experiences shaped the person and runner she has become. She opens up about depression, anxiety, therapy, faith, and learning to deal with the negative voices in her head. We also get deep into her Eastern States race including the moment she realized she was leading the entire field and the wild final miles when she was convinced someone was right behind her. Most importantly, Kaylee talks about a simple goal that has become central to her life: She doesn't want to just survive. She wants to actually live. Episode Photo Credit Phil Cuppernell Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 363: Eastern States 100 Carnage & the Next Generation | 15 Aug 2026 | 01:31:24 | |
This week on Cultra, we're digging into a brutal Eastern States 100, reflecting on our marathon-length conversation with Camille Herron, and looking ahead to one of the most exciting young runners on the East Coast. Eastern States delivered the kind of race that separates the merely enthusiastic from the completely unreasonable. With hot conditions pushing the DNF rate to roughly 54.5%, only 55 runners made it to the finish. And leading the women and first finisher overall was Kaylee Frederick, who put together an extraordinary 23:09 finish to set a new women's course record and become the first woman to break 24 hours at Eastern States. Naturally, we need to talk to her. How about next episode? We're also looking back at our recent three-hour conversation with Camille Herron. What started as an interview turned into a fascinating exploration of competition, neurodiversity, ADHD, hyperfocus, records, rules, and how easily people can misunderstand someone whose brain works differently. We get into the differences between competition on the track, trails, and at races like Badwaterand why some of Camille's controversial questions about records may have had more substance behind them than people realized. Plus:
Another episode of the Cultra Trail Running Podcast where somehow we manage to talk about elite ultrarunning, trail maintenance, supplements, aging, technology and Patreon before remembering that we were supposed to be talking about a race. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 362: Camille Herron Beyond Records | 06 Aug 2026 | 02:55:12 | |
World-record holder and ultrarunning legend Camille Herron joins AFB and Anna G for one of her most personal and wide-ranging conversations to date. This episode is not just a controversial hot take on Facebook, but is a long run in her fast but sometimes troubled shoes. Rather than focusing on splits and statistics, this episode explores the experiences that have shaped Camille both on and off the race course. She shares what it was like receiving a late diagnosis of autism and ADHD, how those discoveries helped explain decades of challenges and successes, and why many of the traits she once struggled with have become strengths in elite ultrarunning events. Camille also reflects on her Vermont 100 comeback, racing without crew or pacers, evolving her training as she enters her mid-40s, and managing the effects of perimenopause while continuing to compete at the highest level. The conversation then shifts to several of the sport's biggest topics including race integrity, anti-doping, SafeSport, pacing, record ratification, and what the future of professional ultrarunning might look like. Whether you know Camille through her world records or the recent headlines, this episode offers a thoughtful, honest look at one of ultrarunning's most accomplished and most outspoken athletes. Life is complicated, and we are all wired in our own unique way. Sometimes it takes three hours to start to understand these differences. Links for this Episode
Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 361: Jackassing Into Vermont 100 | 10 Jul 2026 | 02:28:05 | |
The Cultra Crew is headed north, and Josh is just days away from toeing the line at the legendary Vermont 100. This week is all about race week preparation as the gang dives into crew logistics, pacing strategy, nutrition plans, and the organized chaos that goes into surviving 100 miles. Anna G, Fred, josh and AFB break down everything from aid station bag organization and hydration bottle swaps to why carrying spare bottle nipples might be the most important piece of gear you'll never think about...until it's too late. The episode also covers an incredible weekend at Western States, updates from around the Beast Coast trail community, the heartbreaking news of the Hamster Wheel race director's house fire, and a few upcoming adventures that may involve even more questionable decisions. As always, expect plenty of laughs, tangents, and just enough useful ultrarunning advice to accidentally make you a better runner. In This Episode
Donate to the Conley Family Fire fund Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 360: Amber Constant, White Mountains, Black Flies and 3.65 Million Ft of Vert | 04 Jul 2026 | 02:03:31 | |
Amber Constant, a White Mountains ultrarunner attempting one of the biggest endurance challenges ever undertaken in New England: breaking the all-time annual vertical gain world record joins Cultra Crew this week. Amber shares how a devastating injury nearly ended her running career, the long road back to the mountains, and why she's spending nearly every day climbing thousands of vertical feet in pursuit of history. Along the way we dive into life as a traveling nurse, adventures that took her across India, the mental and physical toll of relentless climbing, and the incredible community that's formed around her project. We also talk about moose encounters, black fly attacks, GPS nerdiness, White Mountain suffering, and why sometimes the biggest victories have nothing to do with setting records. If you've ever wondered what it takes to climb millions of vertical feet in a single year—or simply need a reminder of what's possible when persistence beats adversity—this is an episode you won't want to miss. Follow Amber's journey and cheer her on as she chases history, one climb at a time. Gwen Stratton The Woman That I couldn't recall Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids! Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 359: CUT112 Training Bras | 22 Jun 2026 | 02:02:19 | |
This week on Cultra, we sit down with Jillian Ellefson and Cherie Bilbie to talk about the unofficial women's movement that took shape around the Connecticut Ultra Traverse 112 (CUT112). What started with a simple Facebook post quickly grew into a community of 26 women and 16 supporters, all committed to helping each other tackle one of the toughest adventures on the Beast Coast. Anna G takes the lead as Jillian and Cherie share how they approached training with precision and purpose, spending six months breaking the route into manageable 12-20 mile segments until they had covered—and in many cases repeated—the entire course. Their strategy wasn't just about fitness; it was about learning every rock, climb, and road crossing that CUT112 could throw at them. Now they are looking to replicate their success and get more women lined up for next year's event. The conversation also explores the emotional side of ultrarunning. Jillian opens up about balancing race preparation while supporting her daughter through a hospitalization for an eating disorder, and how the encouragement and companionship of Cherie helped her continue pursuing what once seemed impossible. Along the way, the crew dives into: -Building confidence by training on specific sections of the course. -Why places like Tariffville deserve your respect before race day. -The mental game of taking on a 112-mile journey with no hard time cutoffs. -The power of community and women supporting women in trail running. -Why sometimes the best training plan is simply showing up for each other. It's an inspiring conversation about resilience, friendship, and proving that impossible goals become achievable when shared with the right people. So grab your favorite trail snack, adjust your training bra (or don't), and join us for another gloriously impulsive episode from the belly of the Beast Coast. Join the CUT112 Womens Training Group Facebook Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
#CUT112 #TrailRunning #Ultrarunning #Cultra #BeastCoast #WomenWhoRun #NewEnglandTrail #NoSleepTillGuilford | |||
| 358: Lila Gaudrault's Cocodona 250 No-Plan Plan | 11 Jun 2026 | 02:07:28 | |
AFB, Anna-G, Josh and Phred welcome back ultrarunner, hospice nurse, and Vermont mountain crusher Lila Gaudrault back to the Cultra Trail Running Podcast to break down her experience at the legendary Cocodona 250. Lila takes us deep into the Arizona suffering machine, explaining how she showed up to a 250-mile race with a surprisingly loose game plan, then spent the better part of the first half battling nausea, dehydration, and the reality that 250 miles is a very long way to travel on foot. We talk about sleep deprivation, hallucination-adjacent trail weirdness, crew and pacer support, and the problem-solving mindset required when you're three days into a race and still have mountains to climb. The conversation explores how Cocodona differs from 100-milers, why the atmosphere at 200+ mile races feels more collaborative than competitive, and what Lila learned about managing fatigue, recovery, and the physical toll of multi-day events. We also dive into the science of gender differences in ultrarunning, pacing strategies, and the unique culture that develops when everyone is equally exhausted. Along the way, we discuss * Cocodona 250 race recap * Sleep strategy and managing fatigue * Nausea, dehydration, and race-day troubleshooting * Crew and pacer support in 200+ mile races * Hallucinations and sleep deprivation * Gender dynamics in ultrarunning * Vermont 100 and Backyard Ultras * Balancing hospice nursing and elite ultrarunning * Future race plans and FKTs * The upcoming CUT112 fundraiser for Connecticut Forest & Parks A four-day journey through the Arizona desert, countless lessons learned, and proof that sometimes the best race plan is figuring it out one aid station at a time. Subscribe to Lil's Substack "Running too Much" Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 357: Take 2 Trail at The Spring Fling 10 Hour with Jess Parker | 15 May 2026 | 01:26:01 | |
357: Take 2 Trail at The Spring Fling 10 Hour What if we could leave less of a trace, and save some $ at the same time? Jess Parker is the Ultra cool founder of Take 2 Trail, and she has found a way for us all to easily buy and sell used gear. This lowers the cost of entry for trail runners, and helps keep landfills and our closets from getting cluttered with the shoes, packs, and doo-dads that seemed like a good idea at the time. Jess was so much fun to talk to, and we get a chance to hear about her running, and journey in life. And we get a good chance to discuss The Spring Fling 10 hour Race. @Take2Trail Instagram Take2Trail Facebook Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112 c071ebb421b2aaae576cd124d2093240417e41dd | |||
| 356: Best Selling Author Martin Dugard The Long Run: Steve Prefontaine, Frank Shorter, Joan Benoit, Greta Waitz, and the Decade That Made the Marathon Cool. | 06 May 2026 | 02:11:43 | |
AFB, Anna, and Phred sit down with bestselling author Martin Dugard to talk about his new book The Long Run: Steve Prefontaine, Frank Shorter, Joan Benoit, Greta Waitz, and the Decade That Made the Marathon Cool. The conversation explores the 1970s running boom, the influence of legends like Steve Prefontaine, Frank Shorter, Joan Benoit Samuelson, and Grete Waitz, and how modern marathon science, shoes, and fueling strategies have transformed the sport—along with a few detours into ultrarunning, trail racing, and the future of endurance events. We also hit on Greece, the Royal Family, and the 1972 Olympics. If you are a runner, this book ties together all of the sport's best stories. What was it like to work with Bill O'Reilly? Of course this being Cultra, the conversation eventually wanders into trail running and ultras. Are there too many races? Are 200-milers stealing runners from traditional 100s? And how hard is it to actually staff and direct one of these things? This is a great book, and this episode ain't too bad either. Buy Martin Dugard's other books here Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 355: Boston Marathon Bulldogs Live | 24 Apr 2026 | 01:10:18 | |
Cultra OG Stacey Clark joins AFB for a road trip to Boston to meet up with Episode 280's Jim Kean and The Boston Bulldogs! We record live from the sidelines at mile 22 of The Boston Marathon. But this is not a simple Rah-Rah sideline hot take. We hear how lives are being changed thru combining the principles of a recovery program and running based on the principles of self-leadersip, transparency, and giving back. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 354: Traprock 50k Live | 19 Apr 2026 | 01:21:39 | |
This episode was recorded live at the Traprock 50K in Bloomfield Connecticut home of Penwood State Forest. This race is the first in the 12 race blue blaze series where runners will compete for the overall series prize. This is indirect support of Connecticut Forest & Parks Association, the group that is responsible for protecting and maintaining the over 825 miles of blue blaze trails in the state of Connecticut. If you're not from Connecticut, perhaps you have your own trail stewards and hopefully you were able to support them. Because, after all, SUPPORT is good. During this episode, we get to speak to the gentleman who coordinates all of these races in the Blue Blaze Series, Paul Ladd. We also speak to RD Director, Karen Prado, and the top finishers in the 17 K as well including two fast dudes from Brooklyn, Calvin Cameron, and Greg Cartelli, The Beast Coast's own Kristin Loiko who is good Friends with VT100 RD Amy Ruesecki. As well as Kara Goucher, whoops, I mean Kara Mcknight. Then we get a talking to the fast cats of the 50k, Matt Pacheco, Ben Niebla and running legend Brian Rusiecki. Speaking of legends, Kehr Davis is back along with young gun 19 year old Maddie Kaplan. So many Cultra Personalities at this event, and it was great to work the aid station and hang out with this great community. Kudos to The CT Trail Mixers for carrying the great tradition of this rust busting spring race. Speaking of KUDOs, Hundo Joe was also there, as it is typical for him to volunteer, and hang out. After a Patreon roll call we have prepared a very special song in tribute to Hundo Joe's uncanny ability to give and keep track of KUDOS. So please be sure to listen for this at the end of the episode. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 353: Liz Derstine Music on the PCT Ridgeline | 06 Apr 2026 | 02:11:38 | |
AFB, Anna, and Phred welcome back ultrarunner, musician, and all-around adventurer Liz Derstine. Liz last appeared on Episode 112 talking about her Appalachian Trail FKT, and this time the conversation is about her PCT FKT attempt and her new film Ridgeline. We drift into the strange and wonderful overlap between running, hiking, and music. The group talks about balancing creative life with endurance pursuits, from touring with bands to chasing big miles on trails like the Pacific Crest Trail. Liz shares stories from her PCT hike, including desert night hiking, hauling liters of water between sources, and the occasional terrifying snow crossing. Along the way the Cultra crew discusses FKTs, gear organization systems, and the ultrarunning community's habit of generously sharing knowledge with newcomers. There's also a brief memorial for the dearly departed Cultra Karaoke Hotline (thanks, Google), and a discussion of Liz's current composing projects and newsletter Pink Feathers, where she writes about the intersection of music and endurance adventure. Subscribe to Pinkfeathers Substack Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Closing music by Suno Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 352: Vermont 100 Beast Coast Trail Running Stories with Amy Rusiecki | 27 Mar 2026 | 02:25:50 | |
Anna, Fred, Josh, and AFB sit down with Amy Rusiecki, the longtime race director of the legendary Vermont 100 Endurance Run. Amy shares the behind-the-scenes realities of directing one of the oldest 100-mile races in the country and how she ended up becoming one of the most respected organizers in the sport. If you love a great story, you've stumbled into a whole pasture of them, like opening the gate and finding the World's Largest Cow waiting for you. Amy talks about her early days in endurance sports, how she transitioned from competitive XC skier and ultrarunner to race director, and the complicated logistics of managing hundreds of runners, horses, volunteers, and aid stations across rural Vermont. The group dives into the balancing act of preserving the history and culture of the Vermont 100 while adapting to the modern ultrarunning world. So many great stories! The conversation also covers the volunteer ecosystem that keeps ultras alive, the unique runner-horse dynamic at VT100, how races survive in an era of permits and land management challenges, and why community is still the heart of the sport. Amy shares how The Vermont 100 Endurance Run has long supported Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, a nonprofit that provides year-round sports and recreation opportunities for people with disabilities. Proceeds from the race help fund adaptive programs like skiing, cycling, paddling, and trail running throughout Vermont. Of course, it wouldn't be Cultra without some tangents along the way, gear talk, race directing war stories, and the usual Northeast trail running chaos. Amy also reflects on what makes the Vermont 100 special, what runners often don't see behind the curtain, and why the race continues to matter to so many people in the ultrarunning community. If you've ever run, volunteered at, or dreamed about the Vermont 100, this episode pulls back the curtain on one of the most iconic races in the sport, and the origin story of Cultra
Learn more about how to support Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sport Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Intro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 351 Time Warp, Umstead 100 and Patreon Barbershop | 22 Mar 2026 | 01:17:04 | |
Art and Phred dive into treadmill survival strategies, including Phred's classic 1:05 reset method, the magic of a 15% incline, and the universal truth that starting too fast indoors is a bad life choice. Art is eyeing a March 15 return to running, sharing some winter miles at Lincoln Woods and the awkward reality of snowshoeing. The conversation rolls into the chaos of the Umstead 100—a brutally simple crushed gravel grind with a registration process that sells out in minutes and legends like Mike Smith stacking up finishes. Music talk hits peak Cultra with Grateful Dead vibes and "Time Warp" from The Rocky Horror Picture Show landing right in the cadence sweet spot. Cultra Bot drops some Barber shop… As always, the show is powered 112% by listeners, with Patreon support helping upgrade the audio. Support is good. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 350: Guitar Playing in the Orange Mud with Josh Sprague | 12 Mar 2026 | 02:21:16 | |
This week the Cultra Crew AFB and Anna G. talk with Josh Sprague — founder of Orange Mud — about building gear, starting businesses, and adventure racing. Josh grew up on a Kansas farm selling rubber band guns and raising 4-H pigs before working at Walmart and Goodyear. In 2012 he started Orange Mud after getting frustrated with hydration packs that didn't work for runners. By 2014 he quit corporate life and went all in. We also talk adventure racing, the multi-sport sufferfest of running, biking, paddling, and navigating with map and compass plus gear design, heat management, and why Josh only creates products when they're actually better. Josh also runs 7 Clay and Anvil and Acre, all while keeping Orange Mud independently owned. Adventure, entrepreneurship, gear nerdery, and the usual Cultra nonsense. US Adventure Racing Association USARA Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 349: Weighted Vest Ski Jumping at Black Canyon 100K | 20 Feb 2026 | 01:56:42 | |
Ellie Pell joins AFB, Phred, and Anna G talkin desert DNFs, frozen suffering, Barkley chaos, Olympic trivia, and women's running research, all in classic Cultra style. Ellie's Black Canyon DNF Ellie breaks down her early exit at the Black Canyon 100K after a mile-4 muscle cramp shut things down. Contributing factors: hydration, pacing, and warm-up. Or was it just the body doing what it do? Frozen Snot Report Anna G recaps the brutally cold Frozen Snot Trail 1/2 Marathon—boulder fields, shortened distances, and legendary volunteers. Barkley, Big Races & The Sport's Direction Is trail running evolving, or being packaged? The group dives into what growth means for culture, community, and authenticity. Cultra Matic: Winter Olympics They name all 16 winter sports and invent new ones (ski jump biathlon, endurance figure skating, full-contact 50K speed skating). How to bring Ultra events to the Olympics. Research & Real Talk Ellie shares insights from her weighted vest study on postmenopausal women and as we discuss female participation in trail running. AFB updates listeners on shoulder recovery and the podcast's continued return to weekly episodes. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 348: The Real King of Pain in The Frozen Heart 900 | 13 Feb 2026 | 01:29:39 | |
Cold. Wind. Frozen stream crossings. Dumb ass decision making, or genius? AFB recaps the Real King of Pain in Glastonbury, CT where thigh-deep icy water turned solid led to DQs (sorry Alex, Besic, and Bill), and winter racing felt more like a survival course. Josh and Shan hit Belltown AS, Mark Kelly (in shorts) and fast Tony D braved the road freeze, and Anna G tackled Frozen Snot, and Evil Becky wins Frozen Heart 900 because of course she did. Special guest Ryan Danby reports back from the Frozen Heart 900 and shares his ultra origin story, CT kid turned multi-100 mile finisher at Anchor Down Ultra 24 Hour. He's already signed up again. Because apparently once isn't enough. The crew debates big-money race acquisitions, grassroots trail culture, backyard ultra curious, bear encounters, bad snowshoe customer service, cats destroying sleep, and Fred's escape plan to Mexico. Apparently AFB and Fred each have 3 cats, and Ryan has 1 dog; so at least you learned something. Plus we close with 112 Forever Support the show. Support local races. Keep paddling. Connecticut Forest and Parks Author Jared Beasley Frozen Heart 900 Fleet Feet Grows Connecticut Footprint with Acquisition of Marathon Sports Glastonbury Marathon Sports Acquires six03 Trail Races and Cranmore Mountain Race Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 347: Hot Takes on AMC Winter School with Martin Janoschek | 06 Feb 2026 | 02:18:45 | |
Martin Janoschek drops in to talk AMC life, from winter leadership courses to stewarding ski trails at Cardigan Lodge. The crew dives into backcountry ski setups (tele, AT, splitboard), ski-leash lessons learned the hard way, and why lodges feel extra magical when it's stupid cold outside. Anna and Josh recap deep-freeze winter hikes in New Hampshire, sharing hard-earned lessons on pacing, layering, keeping food from freezing, and why slow groups can be colder than you expect. Things get real with a sketchy Mount Cardigan after-dark decision, hypothermia talk, and when turning around is actually the win. Plus: Cultra-Matic makes a comeback as the crew tries to rattle off the 10 Essentials from memory, AMC education gets some love, Patreon supporters get shouted out, and ultrarunning legends, big donations, and big race plans round out the episode. Cold weather, good decisions, and a little Cultra chaos. https://amcnh.org/ AMC New Hapshire AMC Winter School Feb 27- March 1 Amber Lynn Constant and an amazing January in the Whites! Video of Free Solo of Taipei 101 Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 346: How to Become a Lifelong Runner & Olympic Skimo in The Burrito League | 31 Jan 2026 | 01:51:17 | |
Art and Phred talk winter survival mode: dodgy road conditions, shoulder rehab, fitness dips, and why flexible training beats heroic stupidity this time of year. We also review a Canadian Trail Running (Fishing) Magazine article about How to Be a Lifelong Runner. And take a quick yard sale dive into Skimo, just before we thank our Patreons. We finish with a dope Suno generated 112 song.
Bottom line: stay active, stay kind, don't take yourself too seriously, and we'll see you out there. Link to How to Be a Lifelong Runner Link to Burrito League Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Intro music by Nick Byram Outro Music by Suno Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 345: Ty Gagne: Risk, Rescue, and Decision-Making in the Whites | 18 Jan 2026 | 02:08:40 | |
The Cultra Crew welcomes New Hampshire–based author and risk management executive Ty Gagne for a wide-ranging conversation on mountain rescues, decision-making, and human behavior in the backcountry. How can we have fun, and live to tell about it? Why This Episode Matters Whether you're an ultrarunner, hiker, or weekend adventurer, this episode digs into the uncomfortable but essential truths about preparedness, accountability, and how quickly things can go wrong in the mountains we love. We also open with some details about the Vermont 100 Lottery, and close with some Patreon love! Hosts: AFB, Anna G, Josh G Episode Highlights
Thank you to Forrest from The Mountain Wanderer Maps and Books for lending me your personal copy of Lions of Winter! Learn more about Ty Gagne at https://www.fullconditionsnh.com/ty-gagne-about Follow Ty on Instagram @fullconditionsnh Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 344: Across The Years Nap Tents, Plus Part 1 of Gearing up for Winter Running in the Northeast | 06 Jan 2026 | 01:48:59 | |
Phred recaps finishing the Across the Years Ultra in Arizona, logging another 100-mile effort and marking his 19th consecutive year with a 100-mile finish. The crew swaps ultra lore, legendary runner sightings, and stories from the deep end of endurance running. Plus we shout out our Cultra Fam. Then we go from hot to cold. The conversation shifts into winter running survival mode, covering traction options, screw shoes, Gore-Tex debates, layering strategies, and knowing when to run, walk, or rethink bad ideas on ice. They also preview the Real King of Pain trail run, discuss cold-weather mistakes, alternative winter sports, and even fire-building skills required for upcoming winter races.
Topics Covered
Coming Up Next episode features an interview with Author Ty Gagne on decision-making in extreme winter conditions. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 343: CUT112 and Cultra's New Digs in The Whites | 26 Dec 2025 | 00:42:37 | |
This solo episode is equal parts major announcement, status update, and classic Cultra over-share. AFB checks in on where the show has been, announces a big geographic expansion for Cultra TRP, lays out full details for the 2026 #CUT112 / #CUT50, and closes with a personal update on a long-overdue shoulder replacement. Intro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 342: Golden Tips on Coaching High School XC and Ultra Running | 04 Nov 2025 | 01:12:55 | |
Ian Golden from The Trails Collective, Finger Lakes Running Co., Red Newt Racing joins Evil Becky Burke to talk about the challenges of coaching runners of all ages and abilities. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 341: Jared Beasley on The Endurance Artist and Life with Laz | 11 Oct 2025 | 01:52:11 | |
Author Jared Beasley can tell a great story! Including his encounters with Lazarus Lake, where he earned access to cover the Barkley and Backyard World Championship. Jared shares what he learned: Laz isn't testing fitness—he's testing willpower. Jared's new book The Endurance Artist: Lazarus Lake, the Barkley & a Race with No End covers all this and more. The Beauty of Breaking Down Whether dropping at mile 75 or missing a story deadline, Jared finds the same lesson; failure fuels growth. He also recalls witnessing raw humanity at the Backyard, when a Japanese runner and his crew shared a powerful moment of empathy and exhaustion. The Birth of Backyard Ultra The crew dives into how Laz dreamed up the last-man-standing format back in high school and how it's evolved into a worldwide endurance experiment in pain, strategy, and survival. Listen in for:
Buy a copy of The Endurance Artist: Lazarus Lake, the Barkley & a Race with No End Jared on Instagram: @Jaredbnewyork Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 340: AFB and Phred Trash Patreon, Honor Jack LaLane, The Corn Palace and the Spam Museum | 07 Oct 2025 | 01:49:47 | |
AFB and Phred cover highlights from the Cat's Tail Marathon, NotchView Invitational, SRT and Barclay Fall Classic, and Shan Riggs's run across Connecticut (114 of 169 towns done!). AFB shares a knee-busting White Mountains hiking story, his adventures at the Glastonbury Senior Center gym, where he scores a gift basket, and a Woodstock RV trip featuring The Black Crowes. Phred recalls a cross-country road trip full of quirky running stops — from the Corn Palace to the Spam Museum. They rant about Patreon frustrations, pay tribute to Dr. Jack Daniels, and compare Jack LaLanne's stunts to today's fitness influencers — all with that signature Cultra chaos and trail humor. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 339: Andrew Drummond White Mountains 100 Community Builder | 20 Sep 2025 | 02:05:45 | |
Andrew Drummond is the heartbeat of the White Mountain trail running community -ultrarunner, ski mountaineer, and race director who set the FKT on the Direttissima, summiting all 48 NH 4,000-footers in under five days. We dive into his adventures in ultramarathons, backcountry skiing, and community building in Jackson, NH, including the White Mountain 100, Bubba's Backyard Ultra, and guiding Scott Jurek through the toughest terrain in the East. As our conversation with Andrew unfolds, what emerges isn't just a tale of mountains or miles, but a love story-of place, of lifestyle, of belonging. It's about finding connection, losing it, and carrying that emptiness until the trail brings you back to what makes you whole. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 338 New England Races and Patreon Love | 11 Sep 2025 | 01:22:57 | |
AFB and Evil Becky are back with a full plate of races, mountain lore, and more than a few tangents. If you like your trail chatter served awkwardly with Swedish Fish, this one's for you. Shan Riggs is at it again!! Race Recaps: We dive into the Cross Connecticut Run for Mental Health Awareness and Macedonia Trailways in Kent, breaking down the 50K, 25K, and 12K finishers like we were there (spoiler: we weren't). Cats Tail Drama: Evil Becky drops the bomb that she's skipping Cat's Tail on her birthday (Sept 27th). Send your condolences in Swedish Fish. Mountain Madness: We talk Notch View Invitational, CT Donut Run, Escarpment, and why you *must* listen to our Dick Vincent episode if you want your trail cred card stamped. Art also tells us how Mount Washington once ate hikers for breakfast back in 1900. Big Trail Feats: Annie Tilden crushes the Bob Marshall Traverse, and Vigo Fish takes on the Desolation Loop in NH. Patreon Love: Our patrons keep this ship running (and stocked with candy). Huge thanks to Angela and the rest of the gang—progress, grit, and support like yours make the show possible. Wisconsin meet-up incoming! College Cross Country: Evil Becky casually name-drops Emily Mayer at a meet, while her sons make a statement at the University of Hartford Invitational by winning races. Because if you're going to impress a college, might as well take home the W. Community Corner:Judy Proto (yes, the first female NFL kicker), Justin Kowski's new course record, Laz's upcoming Barclays Fall Classic, plus encounters with Bill Odendall, Brian Musiak, Celeste Fong, Cherie and Christine A Chin Hing
It's everything you love about Cultra: history, hilarity, and heaps of community love—with a side of Evil Becky eye-rolls. Shan Riggs Extremely Outside Learn more about Shan's 1100 mile Run and Medals 4 Meddle Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 337: Dick Vincent: Founder of the Escarpment Trail Run & Longest-Serving Trail Race Director | 04 Sep 2025 | 01:43:23 | |
Phast Phred, Evil Becky, and AFB host Dick Vincent—the man who's been directing the Escarpment Trail Run in the Catskills for 48 years straight. That makes him the longest-serving trail race director in North America. Laddie Lawrence can have the road scene locked down with Westport's summer series, but when it comes to gnarly trails, Escarpment is Dick's kingdom. He's also a guy who kept a 34-year run streak, ran Boston back in '74, and even left seven toenails out on the course at Western States Endurance Run 100 WSER in '86 If you love trail running history, and great stories, this may be the episode for you. Each of Dick's stories could've been its own episode. A streak like that, a Western States war story, and the creation of an iconic race... That's pure Cultra magic. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 336: Are the Adirondacks Tougher Than the Whites? Trail Legends Weigh In | 31 Aug 2025 | 01:52:30 | |
Krista Petrie and Debbie Clouthier might just be the fastest "slow hikers" you'll ever meet. Joining forces with West Rock Ramblers Anna G(arsten), Josh Gaetjen, and AFB, these Canadian adventurers bring stories that range from the White Mountains to the Arctic and everywhere in between. We first crossed paths with Krista and Debbie during our Owl's Head adventure in the Whites, and immediately knew we had to get them on Cultra. We expected good stuff, but at times we were flat-out speechless. The conversation covers it all:
Somewhere between wolf attacks, soggy tents, and the classic "mile and a half" sign-off, we also discovered that progressive lenses are apparently mandatory "slide" gear once you hit your 50s. Who knew? Gear nerds, don't worry, we also get into mountain weather prep, bear safety (Polar, Griz, Black, no Panda) and winter hiking essentials like snowshoes, microspikes, and extra layers. Along the way, we debate Adirondacks vs. Whites, swap stories about unexpected trail meetups, and laugh about why some hikers insist on packing half their house "just in case." Spoiler alert: the legendary Debbie Clouthier is 73 years old and still hiking circles around the rest of us—even when we're "running." Follow Krista on Instagram @KPWOUTDOORS Check out KPW Outdoors Follow Deb on FB Links to Author Eli Burakian Sorry that I drew a blank during the episode Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 335: The Shenipsit Striders Running Club at 50 Years | 21 Aug 2025 | 01:38:03 | |
If we could dream up the perfect trail running club, it would look a whole lot like the Shenipsit Striders. For 50 years, this crew has been building trails, hosting races, and creating a community where everyone: fast, slow, new, or seasoned; feels like family. In this episode, AFB sits down at the Striders' 50th Anniversary 8 Hour Fatass Run and chats with five runners who embody the heart of the club:
You may know some of these names already, but if you don't, (where the heck ya been) you'll come away with a deeper appreciation for the people who make the Shenipsit Striders so special. This is an episode about community, longevity, and the joy of running trails together. Q: Did AFB do these interviews so he could sit around and eat all the food? Check out some of Jake's Music Salem Poor Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 334: Judy Proteau and the Race for the Refuge | 14 Aug 2025 | 01:25:40 | |
Episode 334: Judy Proteau and the Race for the Refuge This week we're joined by the one and only Judy Proteau—ultrarunner, race director, Highland City Strider, kicker for the NFL, and all-around trail badass. Judy's here to talk about her first year directing the Race for the Refuge, happening September 28th at the Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge in Sudbury, MA. (You bet your ass...abet!)We get into the behind-the-scenes of putting on a race, tribal land permissions, course marking, volunteer wrangling, post-race beer logistics (yes, that's a thing), and why she's adding a guided one-mile family walk to the event. We also take a trip down Judy's running memory lane—from her "oops I gained a few pounds in my 20s" jogs, to her first marathon at Sugarloaf, to her 50K adventures, to finishing her first 100 at Hamster Wheel. You'll hear about the 48-hour race where she overheated, dropped, then rallied two hours later to finish with twelve seconds to spare. AFB math: 100 miles plus 12 seconds to spare= 112! Her mantras? "Get Rich or Die Trying" and "This is for all the cookies in the cookie jar." This is a really amazing story! Enough said. Other highlights include:
This one's part race preview, part ultra origin story, and part love letter to the trail community. Judy's enthusiasm is contagious, and we think you'll want to lace up (or volunteer) after listening. It may be the most fun you can have with your clothes on! Links from the show:
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| 333 Overcoming Escarpment Yips & The Bug-Net Hat | 04 Aug 2025 | 01:42:12 | |
AFB and Evil Becky Burke are back at it, serving up a full platter of ultra goodness from Vermont to Rhode Island, with detours through the Catskills, Soapstone, Notchview, and the Squatchy Surprise in NJ. We're breaking down the highs, lows, and bug bites from recent races, plus dishing on who crushed it, who gutted it out, and who set new course records. Art wrestles with "The Yips" on technical trails, Evil Becky relives her sandy Ocean State Ultra dropout at mile 50, and we both agree-some courses need to rethink their "short loop at the end" strategy. We tip our trucker hats to our Patreon trail legends. There's also talk of Escarpment ambitions, a potential Badger 100 return, awning insurance, and Evil Becky's upcoming birthday week. Episode Highlights:
Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112 | |||
| 332: The Vermont 100 "Miler" Endurance Race | 25 Jul 2025 | 02:29:11 | |
332: The Vermont 100 "Miler" Endurance Race Our very own podcast famous Jamie Miler, a.k.a., Jamie Miller recently ran VT100, one of the oldest and most iconic trail races in the US, so we take some time to get all the explicit details from Jamie and her crew. This is a great episode to listen to during a long run, and in preparation to either Crew, or run the Vermont 100. We also take some time to recognize the top finishers and some of the friends of the podcast who participated, and in some cases set records at this classic old school ultra trail running event. We cover:
Credits: Vermont 100 Endurance Race Here is a great interiew by TJM of Race Director Amy Rusiecki Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 331: Notchview Cultra Aid Station Food Fight | 11 Jul 2025 | 01:22:25 | |
In this episode, AFB and Evil Becky dive deep into the madness and method behind prepping for their 48-hour showdown at Notch View. With ice towels, grilled quesadillas, and hallucination avoidance on the menu, the duo breaks down their pacing strategies, sleep plans, nutrition math, and mental game-while still finding time to argue over pee bottles and AI coaching. Art unveils his "douche canoe" plan to knock out 75 miles in the first 24 hours, relying on hydration tricks and skills gleaned from the Tour De France and Erie Canal Trail before sleeping, rinsing and repeating. Evil Becky brings the heat (or more accurately, plans to sleep through it), favoring strategic hill-walking, silence at the start, and keeping her sanity intact by avoiding Art as long as possible. They tackle the high-stakes game of ultra-fueling from Tailwind and Precision gels to grilled cheese and reflect on how runners tie self-worth to results (and why that's dangerous). Bonus: Evil Becky shares her favorite comfort foods and confirms she will not be participating in any pee bottle experiments, thank you very much. Or is it all behind the "Pay Wall"?
Highlights & Segments: (Times Quoted are most likely B.S.)
Quotable Moment:
Deep Thoughts that most won't discuss: Is sleep deprevation worth the cognitive impairment? This may be the limiting factor… What is your limiting factor, Do you have one? Got a weird race food you swear by? Ever seen a shadow person at hour 41? Share your stories with us in the comments, tag @cultratrailrunning, or shout them at us when we're too tired to respond. Or join our Facebook page. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 330: Third Date Patreon | 07 Jul 2025 | 01:09:59 | |
We take a minute, minute and a half to say thank you to all of our patreons, and to see what some of them are up to.
Highlander Hustle Portland High Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 329: Is Steven Tursi Largest Known Person to Run a Sub 24 Hour 100 Miler? | 23 Jun 2025 | 01:39:03 | |
Phred is Back, BIGTIME and he finally reels in his "white whale" guest longtime friend and ultrarunning enigma Steven Tursi. Steven and Phred blab about running streaks, hashing adventures, body image, and a lifelong evolution of what it means to be a runner and a friend. Was Steve the original Johnny Appleseed for Cultra? Enjoy this fabulous Bootleg Cultra (Think Grateful Dead Barton Hall, Cornell University, May 8, 1977)
Episode Highlights: Running Streaks and Ultramarathons
Hashing Culture 101
On Body Image and Identity
Friendship in Adulthood
The Shift to Journey Runs
Bonus Nuggets
Tune In If You Like:
Referenced Events & Topics: Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 328: The Colder Boys Bring the Heat to Western States | 19 Jun 2025 | 01:14:19 | |
AFB welcomes El Niño a.k.a. the chosen one a.k.a. Tobias Tello a.k.a. Tobi and Abel Murphy, hosts of The Colder Boys podcast, to break down Western States 100. In This Episode:
Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 327: The Double CUT, 224 Miles with Ross Bielak | 13 Jun 2025 | 02:25:33 | |
Ross Bielak from Littleton Colorado is Cultra #PodcastFamous and a dear friend of our community. When he signed up for the #CUT112 in 2021 after doing his own Western CUT in 2020, he felt that he was a bit undertrained. So very logically, (WTF) he decided to attempt the never before completed Double #CUT112. Although this attempt resulted in a visit to the hospital, he tried it again, and then finally again in 2025. We hear the story of the power of the trail running community as around 40 people came out, (in real life) to crew and pace him as he took on the grueling 224 mile double crossing of CT on the New England Trail. This is a story of love, endurance and porcupines that shows the power of Running Far, Eating Well, and Resting Easy. Ba-Da-Ba-Ba-Ba, I'm Lovin it! Donate to Connecticut Forest and Parks Association Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 326: Finding Common Ground in Politics, Running, and the Power of Curiosity | 01 Jun 2025 | 01:34:03 | |
Whether its road running versus trail running, Garmin versus Coros, iPhone versus Android or Democrats versus Republicans, why does it sometimes feel so hard for us to actually listen to each other? We look at what it means to find common ground, and to be genuinely curious. And why it is sometimes so difficult to remain curious. We also take a look at our mental maps and try to figure out why it can be so difficult for us to change our perspective. This is a conversation that some would rather hide in the bottom of a portajohn to avoid. But you love this shit, and we love you right back. Enjoy this warm cuppa Cultra Brew! So is Curiosity the antidote to binary thinking? Is Listening with empathy a superpower in both politics and trail running. So who is running the CUT112? Have a listen to The Hidden Brain Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 325: Blind Donkey Runner John Robert Mckay | 24 May 2025 | 01:27:30 | |
When most of us think of "running blind", we envision a state of panic where one must proceed without having a clear understanding of what lies ahead. Trail running can be challenging enough even when we can see the rocks and roots that can trip us up. John Robert Mckay, AKA The Blind Donkey Runner does not let that stop him. We hear the details of how he is able to avoid "rock in 3-2-1, ROCK" with the aid of guides. We hear about his journey to qualify and run The Boston Marathon, his racing on the track, trails and ultra events. John also shines the spotlight on local Georgia High School Track coaches and their athletes through his own podcast Southeastern High School Athletics and he is a subject matter expert! We spend a lot of time talking about making connections with others, and the courage required to stand on the starting line of a cross country race. We also enjoy Jackassing around with The Blind Donkey Runner. Don't miss this! Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 324: Not Dropping is No Accident with Mount To Coast's Lin Zhuo | 18 May 2025 | 01:35:24 | |
Let's talk about dropping. When we drop something it's like we are forgetting to hold on. We sign up for the 100k and sometimes want to drop to a 50 mile. And some times we help each other pause for a moment and remember why we do what we do and we avoid dropping .(Now the tricky part) Sometimes we decide to pause and not drop any more and others remind us that perhaps it's time to take a deeper look and drop a new episode of The Cultra Trail Running Podcast. We are glad to be back! We talk about all the fun and crazy shit that happens on the trails and in our lives that most people don't care about or wont talk about. Lin shares his experience as a child growing up in Shanghai, and we touch on all aspects of life, love and the miracle of ultra running. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 323: Cultra's Final Episode? | 03 Mar 2025 | 00:55:10 | |
Life is constantly changing and we are all very different people than we were 6 or 7 years ago, and right now it feels like its time to take a break, continue to seek professional help, and decide whats next. So for now, we are hitting pause (paws), but before we go, lets use this episode to take a look back, just in case this turns out to be our final episode. This podcast started as a wild idea among friends—a way to celebrate the absurdity, struggle, and joy of ultra running in a way that was raw and explicit like the trails we run on. What I didn't expect was how deeply it would resonate, how it would grow into a community, and how much it would mean to me (and to all of us) over the years. The inside jokes, the live shows, the interviews, the ridiculous tangents and jackassing around that somehow always made sense in the end—it's all been a blast. Phast Phred, Evil Becky, Jimmy Mac, and Celeste Fong-a-Ding-Dong—you've given me (AFB) so much, and I can't thank you enough for that gift. Most of all, I want to thank you. Your support—whether financial or just by showing up and listening—has made this journey possible. You've fueled countless hours of storytelling, laughter, and the occasional moment of wisdom. We loved butchering your names and making you Podcast Famous. You've been the lifeblood of this weird, wonderful family that understands the beauty of suffering through 112 miles in the woods and somehow still wanting more. I don't know what's next. Maybe Cultra returns in some new form down the road, maybe not. But one thing is certain: the friendships and community we've built aren't going anywhere. We'll still be out there—running, crewing, racing, pacing, and laughing at the sheer madness of it all. And I hope to see you out there, too. So, for now, this is a pause—not necessarily a goodbye. Keep running, seek professional help, and we'll see you all in a mile… mile and a half. Love you guys, AFB Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram If we start up again... Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 322: Life Choices with Tim Hardy | 18 Feb 2025 | 01:37:42 | |
Former soldier Tim Hardy shares his approach to making his life choices. He has at times deliberately chosen a difficult path that includes some of the most arduous and hot multi-day races, like Vol State, and HOTS, and also cold races like the Arrowhead 135. Tim has recently taken a look at what makes a great experience for him in terms of community, travel time, course, and cost. He gives us a lot to consider as we make our own life choices. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 321: 40 Minutes Solo with Evil Becky Burke | 07 Feb 2025 | 00:39:33 | |
For the 1st time (and hopefully not the last), this episode features the solo efforts of Evil Becky. Do you have 40 minutes? Do you want see what the back of your eyes look like? If you said yes, then this is the episode for you. EB goes through last weeks running superlatives and reports on what you the listeners think about yourselves and others. There are some flashback moments (que the Scooby Doo music) of looking back on our past runner selves and the insight and advice we would give to ourselves. Then we wrap up that golden doggy bag with a look forward to what races are coming up in the Northeast. This is the episode that you didnt even know you needed. Enjoy! Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 320: 8675309 Who Are You? | 21 Jan 2025 | 01:05:29 | |
So Dad (Art) is away and the kids (CULTRA crew) decided to play. We changed the episode rules and decreed this to be episode #8675309. We also determined Who are you. Yes, you. We went through a list of stereotypical runner types and made judgments of who fit the bill. But what do YOU think? Who are you? And who are those other runners around you? Join in and pass some friendly and silly judgement. Added bonus! We kept the train on the tracks and paced ourselves to an impressive hour - hour and a 1/2 episode...including patreons. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 319: New Trail Runner's Guide (Northeast Edition) | 12 Jan 2025 | 01:50:40 | |
319: New Trail Runner's Guide (Northeast Edition) Are you a road runner looking to start trail running, a hiker intent on picking up your pace, or an experienced trail running veteran who is curious to see if you could pick up a new idea? This episode covers the Trail Running Basics, the Northeast Regional specifics, trail etiquette and safety, training & fitness and even gives some pro tips on pooping in the woods. Trail Running basics answers the questions of what gear do I need to start trail running, how to find out where to run, what the differences are from road running, how to choose between road shoes and trail shoes, and what are some of the essential items you should consider carrying on a trail run. We cover some of the Northeast Regional specifics of running on these explicit and raw trails and mention a few of the most iconic spots to run in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Maine. (Although we don't offer any Gator safety tips) In trail etiquette & safety we discuss concepts and strategies of basic navigational safety such as "The Playpen". What to do if you encounter a bear, rattlesnake, or perhaps the greatest threat, the dreaded tick. What are the best colors to wear or avoid, like "don't shoot me orange" or "hi I'm a deer's ass white". We also talk briefly about training and fitness and how to deal with hills, and the many ways of connecting with the trail community and many of the trail running clubs in the Northeast. Then we talk shit! What are the best seasons to poop, where, when, how? What are the name brand leaves to seek out, and so much more than you ever wanted to know. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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| 318: AI Predictions of the Past and Cereal | 07 Jan 2025 | 02:16:06 | |
Ellie Pell is back to talk some smack on AI and the great cereal mix debate. How will this impact our sport? Will trail running ever be the same? Can't we all just get along? Qualifying for Boston Marathon and the Olympic Marathon Trails anyone? Plus Patreon Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter basic licker. If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112
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