Explore every episode of the podcast East Coast Ultra Running Podcast
Dive into the complete episode list for East Coast Ultra Running Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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Title
Pub. Date
Duration
01 - Chris Stangle 50k to 50mile
29 Aug 2024
01:30:55
Newly Rebranded East Coast Ultra Running Podcast! New name, same great content from Runbum and the crew.
In this conversation, RunBum and Chris Stangle discuss the transition from a 50K to a 50-mile race. They share their personal experiences and offer advice on training and race strategies. They emphasize the importance of respecting the distance and gradually increasing mileage. They discuss the benefits of incorporating run-walk intervals and power hiking into training and race plans. They also highlight the significance of pacing, heart rate management, and finding the right balance between running and walking. Overall, they provide valuable insights for runners looking to make the jump to a 50-mile race.
If you're looking for some fall races for your 2023/24 calendar, check out our races open for registration now! https://www.runbumtours.com/ @runbumraces
Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/ @LGDesigns.me
021 - Ask Me Anything - AMA01
23 Jan 2024
00:31:03
Run Bum Races Race directors Sean Blanton and Deanna Doane answer questions from the audience. They cover bears, self supported runs, run walk method for ultras and more
If you're looking for some fall races for your 2023/24 calendar, check out our races open for registration now! https://www.runbumtours.com/ @runbumraces
Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/ @LGDesigns.me
012 - Brad Park - Ten 10 Running
18 Jul 2023
01:03:59
Brad Park is family to the RunBum community. He's been the host of the Ten10 Running club for over 7 years. He is an ultra runner, but more importantly an ultra supporter. When he's not running races, he's always volunteering as aid station captain, trail maintainer, and runner support and crew. If you want to get into the trail running community, Brad is your mentor, and friend. Ten10 run club was where Sean and Scott (our producer and media coordinator) first met. I know, how cute. We here at the podcast are huge advocates of getting people into the ultra and trail community, and without people like Brad, we'd be a lost cause.
Lovelyn Findley is a remarkable individual who has made significant strides in the trail running community of Central Florida. As the leader of the O-town Blazers trail running group, Lovelyn has played a pivotal role in inspiring and motivating runners of all levels to explore the beautiful trails of the region.
Every Saturday, rain or shine, Lovelyn leads the O-town Blazers on exhilarating trail running adventures, primarily along the renowned Florida Trail. Her passion for the sport is infectious, as she encourages her fellow runners to push their boundaries and discover the hidden wonders of nature.
Lovelyn's own journey in trail running is quite impressive. While she may be relatively new to the world of trail running, she has quickly established herself as an ultra-distance runner. She fearlessly tackles challenging terrains and long distances, continuously striving to conquer her personal bests.
In addition to her dedication to trail running, Lovelyn is a loving mother to two boys. Balancing her responsibilities as a parent with her passion for running is a testament to her resilience and determination. She is an inspiration not only to her children but also to the entire O-town Blazers community, demonstrating that it is possible to pursue personal goals while nurturing a fulfilling family life.
We all know it. We feel it. Summer is here and we still have to get out there and train. Today Runbum has a quick solo-sode talking about heat training, acclimating, and how to properly stay cool. Have a listen, and remember RunBum family... stay cool
If you're looking for some fall races for your 2023 calendar, check out our races open for registration now! https://www.runbumtours.com/
009 Grayson Highlands - Come for the Ponies, Stay for the Views
15 May 2023
01:23:13
We had an amazing race weekend in Grayson Highlands this month. Grayson is a beautiful area, but known to have a "moody" climate; but the weather couldn't have been better! It's hard to describe in words the beauty and diversity of this area. There's rhododendron tunnels traversing creeks and waterfalls. There is open pasture land with grazing longhorn cattle. Then there is the high country; it feels as if its a mix between Scotland and Colorado. Did we mention the wild ponies that are scattered throughout the park?? Today's episode is devoted to this beautiful area, Grayson Highlands, and the epic race put on by RunBum Tours. There is a distance for every runner, from 50miles to 8miles. We have two amazing guests on today, both a strong member of the ultra running and RunBum community. Arabelle Higgins is an amazing runner, coach, nutrition expert, and even knows a thing or two about gardening. Sarah Mullins is a key member of the RunBum family. Yes she's a runner, but she also volunteers at races whenever she's not racing. She knows a thing or two about aid stations, sweeping the course, and putting in the effort to finish strong.
Are you looking to step up your game in ultra running, or just in training for life? Check out Arabelle's coaching service, StrongEpicLife. https://www.strongepiclife.com/
If you're looking for some fall races for your 2023 calendar, check out our races open for registration now! https://www.runbumtours.com/
In this weeks episode, our host, and resident Runbum, traveled to Pennsylvania to participate in the Hyner Trail Challenge. This course has been dubbed, "the run of your life," and "one of the funnest [race] courses in the world!" Sean Michael goes into every detail of the course, and why it's his favorite race in the....WORLD. After that we have some amazing guests to talk about the Hyner and the PA trails. Todays guests: John Dennis Shaffer, is a crucial link to the PA Trail Dogs, helping maintain the trails on the course, and also an avid trail runner. He's what Sean Michael calls a "trail pirate" of the Pennsylvania trails, and has over 60 races under his belt. His stories are captivating and inspiring to say the least. Jill Dennes resides in Nashville, TN and is fairly new to the ultra and trail running community. That doesn't mean that she's not already thriving. From the fast miles on the roads to the steepest inclines, she loves any and everything about running. This year she places 5th female at the Hyner 50k AND 86th female at the Boston Marathon ALL IN THE SAME WEEK! We hope you enjoy this episode. Check out the Hyner and all the PA Trail Dog races https://www.patraildogs.com/hyner
If you're looking for some fall races for your 2023 calendar, check out our races open for registration now! https://www.runbumtours.com/
007- North Carolina's Spring Classics - 7 Sister's 25k & New River Trail 50k
18 Apr 2023
01:13:33
The Runbum crew were out again on this beautiful spring weekend in the Southeast. Sean and Scott talk about training, tempo runs, and how to be humbled at a group run. Sean finally got a chance to run the Seven Sister's 25k in Montreat, NC. A technical loop up Black Mountains east and west ridge lines. He "took it easy" this weekend as this run was just part of his master taper plan for next weeks Hyner 25k. Scott dusted off his speed shoes and went for a fast flat 50k on the New River Trail 50k located in Fries, VA. Hear how things went right, until they went wrong.
Sign up for one of our fall races before they sell out! Sky to Summit, Wild Florida on sale now! https://www.runbumtours.com/ Find us on Social at RunBum Races
What's up Bend Don't Break runners! It's the first week of April, so that means it's time for central Florida's Croom Fool's trail race! We had two RunBum race directors out there representing the RunBum community and both had epic race finishes. We all know that our host, Sean Michael, is fast; but our new co-race director, and supervisor of culinary affairs, Deanna Doane absolutely CRUSHED the 50k. She took 1st OVERALL, with a finish time of 4:19:31. Deanna Doane is an all around athlete. When she's not putting in miles on the trail, she's meeting the Duval Ocean Swim Group to get in those brisk sunrise Atlantic Ocean open water strokes. She's got one of the best nutrition plans, lover of all animals, and one of the best advocates we know for caring for our Earth. If you're planning on racing an upcoming RunBum event, there's a good chance she'll be stirring up some vegan chili for the finish line! Check out her new endeavor, Sweet D's Kitchen, next time you're in Jacksonville, FL. This episode is brought to you by, well, you. Sign up for one of our races or group runs. Sign up for other race directors races. Volunteer at your local event. We're here to help continue to build the trail and ultra running community. Bend, don't break.
Wow. Thats the easiest way to describe our feelings about the 11th annual, 2023 Georgia Death Race. We had high winds, sideways rain, and a kick-butt National Anthem to start the morning. Beautiful clear skies by sunrise on Akin Mountain. Then the heat and humidity came, making an already challenging race course that much extreme. Today we have two GDR finishers on to tell their story. Finishers is an understatement for these two. Our first guest, Lindsey Clemens is not your ordinary military wife. As a mother of 2 kids she still finds time to get into the mountains and get GDR specific training in. Currently stationed in Augusta, Georgia, Lindsey loves to be challenged and push her personal boundaries, on the trail and in every day life. @runwithgritandgrace
Our next guest, Jana Fridrichova , is our 2023 GDR Female winner, and came within 20minutes of being 1st overall. Hailing from Hagerstown, Maryland, she's a mother of 2 teenage kids, and a seasoned ultra runner, with 60ish ultras under her belt. Jana is hungry for the mountain trails, and for her favorite post race meal : a huge plate of loaded pork nachos and non alcoholic Guinness.
Sit back, grab some of your favorite aid station grub, and listen along as we hear the stories of the Georgia Death Race 2023.
Na zdravje & Slainte.
If you're ready to carry your burden in 2024, Georgia Death Race just went on sale and is quick to sell out. Grab your spot now before it's too late! https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=103404
Podcast produced, edited and all things wizardly by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/
004 Georgia Death Race: Drop your burden
20 Mar 2023
01:54:54
Today we have a special episode for you all that love to suffer. You won't suffer through this episode, but you will hear 4 different stories and experiences from runners that have and will have experienced the 'Georgia Death Race.' For those of you that DON'T know what the GDR is, the Georgia Death Race is a 74 ISH mile trail running race from Vogel State Park to Amicalola Falls State Park in North Georgia. Runners are required to carry a 1 lb railroad spike the duration of the race. If you finish then you throw this nail in the coffin and get an engraved spike. The race has 16,000 ft of climbing and 16,000 ft of descent. It is relentless. IT has been called the craziest and most fun race East of the Rockies. . This is the most watched, sought after and desired ultra marathon on the East Coast. You will hear 4 sides of the story: First we have Andrew Miller. Now residing in the PNW, Andrew is a beast on the North Georgia trails. He was won the GDR 3 times and still holds the course record. A winner of the prestigious 'Western States' (with a golden ticket from his GDR win!). He is a wealth of knowledge on how to be fast and efficient on the trails. Check out his coaching services https://www.andrewmillercoaching.com @andrewmillercoaching Next, we have Paul Reynolds. Paul has finished GDR 4 times, and is going for the coveted 5th finish. Living in New York, Paul feels drawn to the rugged mountains of the southeast. He's got some great advice on how to stay strong, through all the ups and downs, metaphorically and literally. After that, Kevin Silvey Kevin is no stranger to the trail running community in the southeast. If you've ran a race here, you've probably toed the line with him. With that being said, Kevin has attempted the GDR twice, both times unsuccessful. Kevin talks about what went wrong, and what he's doing in training to fix it. Finally we have Doug Lynch Doug is what RunBum has dubbed, "The Phoenix." He is a veteran ultra runner with an epic story. We will leave it to that. Hear about is story leading up to his first attempt, at the Georgia Death Race.
As always, thank you for your support, here and out on the trails. If you'd like to follow along with live tracking on the race, check out www.runbumtours.com
003 - Anna Foard & Forgotten Florida: Flipping Fear with Gratitude
15 Mar 2023
00:40:20
Anna Ford, former math and statistics teacher, turned data solution architect, talks about her 3rd place experience at Forgotten Florida Race Series. Anna ran the 50 mile distance, which is no small feat. She talks about her mantras and mindset to get through the pain, fear, and fatigue of ultra running. Join our conversation to hear first hand, about her joy in the journey that is, Forgotten Florida.
020 The Tales of Ron Blanton and the Cloudland Canyon featuring Kyle Kraeft
11 Dec 2023
00:50:38
'In the quiet of Tallahassee, where legends are spun,
Ron Blanton's story, forever to run.
Through winding trails and a Canyon’s embrace,
A ballad for Ron, in the runner's chase.
Ron Blanton, a name in the wind,
Cloudland Canyon, where his dreams begin.
Second place echoes, in the Georgia clay,
A ballad for Ron, who runs his own way.'
Kyle Kraeft is an amazing member of the ultra running community in Tallahassee Fl. Ron (Kyle) and Sean talk all about his 2nd place finish at Cloudland Canyon 50mile trail race, nutrition, training, and the local trail community he's help grow in his home town.
If you're looking for some fall races for your 2023/24 calendar, check out our races open for registration now! https://www.runbumtours.com/ @runbumraces
Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/ @LGDesigns.me
002 - Dink Taylor: Mountain Mist and the Legend
20 Feb 2023
01:16:05
In todays episode we have the Mountain Mist 50k LEGEND, Dink Taylor. Dink is the Mountain Mist 50k race director, which just finished it's 29th year in a row. Arguably the best 50k in the Southeast. Sean and Dink discuss the history of the race, its origins as the first ultra trail race in Alabama, and some of the legends that have raced, won, and DNF'd this epic race. Dink is not just a race director. He's ran over 115,000 miles, 207 ultras, 86 marathons, and a total of 1370 races in his legendary running career.
Thanks for your continued support of this podcast, and more importantly trail and ultra running. If you enjoy the podcast please support my races as we try to grow and inspire the trail and ultra running community.
If you'd like to sign up for Mountain Mist 50k 30th anniversary race, click the link below. https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?eid=103
Please check out our races as well, at Run Bum Tours. https://www.runbumtours.com
Podcast produced by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.LGDesigns.me
001 - From Half Marathon to 50k; It's easier than you may think
22 Nov 2022
00:23:11
In todays episode we discuss how to make the big leap from smaller distance trail runs, all the way to your first 50k! No we didn't say 5k; we think you're ready to run 31 miles, the big 50k jump! We discuss power hiking, strategic run/walk timing, nutrition, mindset and training. The biggest thing is telling yourself that YOU CAN DO IT!
Check out an amazing 2023 race schedule https://www.runbumtours.com/races
Podcast produced by Looking Glass Designs www.LGDesigns.me
019 - How to Crew Yourself - Solosode
01 Dec 2023
00:23:11
What's up Runbum family! We have a short solosode from your boy, Scottapants. He had what you would call an "unsuccessful" race at Tunnel Hill 100, but we think he really nailed the logistics of crewing himself. Today so many runners feel that the need a crew to succeed in an ultra, but he's here to give you som tips on how to make your race as successful and streamlined as possible. He does show some spreadsheets and footage, so the video version on your YouTube channel will be a great resource as well. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsume0yGiZNnuIEKt4pWSjg Thanks for the support and we'll see you out on the trails!
If you're looking for some fall races for your 2023/24 calendar, check out our races open for registration now! https://www.runbumtours.com/ @runbumraces
Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/ @LGDesigns.me
018 - Wild Florida 50k Recap
22 Nov 2023
00:49:43
We're back from our summer siesta. We've been working hard prepping for the upcoming race season and we're stoked to be here. You may have noticed that we've renamed the podcast simply to the Runbum Podcast. Our motto is still 'Bend, don't break' but we wanted to streamline the name to fully encompass our race company RunBum Races.
This past weekend, 11/18/23, we had our Wild Florida 50k trail race. A favorite race of Runbums, so much so that we worked extra hard to cover him while he raced the 50k! Wild Florida is extra special, because we get to collaborate with the Florida Trail Association. It's so great to work with them, as the Florida Trail holds a special place in our hearts.
Listen along as the gang talks all about the race, the future of the race series, and Runbum's personal experience out on the tail.
Thanks for listening and remember, Bend Don't Break.
If you're looking for some fall races for your 2023/24 calendar, check out our races open for registration now! https://www.runbumtours.com/ @runbumraces
Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/ @LGDesigns.me
017 - Running Beta - 10 Tips for 50k Training
30 Aug 2023
00:21:39
We here at RunBum are excited to be releasing a FREE 50k training program. Thats right; free. We don't want your email, likes, follows, or mother's maiden name. We just want you to become a stronger, faster, and smarter runner. In the excitement of finalizing the training plan, which you will eventually find on our website, runbumtours.com, we decided to release a few videos talking about training for a race. Our experience isn't driven by online coaching certificates and lectures; it's found in the hours upon hours of training and race experience here at Runbum. If you have the means, we STRONGLY encourage you to hire your own coach (check out some of our previous episodes) but we also know that most people can't. That's why we're here to help. Ultra and trail running to us is a community well beyond the start and finish line of any race. Join us here on the podcast, on our social media, out on the trails for one of our group runs, and at the next race.
Thanks for listening and remember, Bend Don't Break.
If you're looking for some fall races for your 2023 calendar, check out our races open for registration now! https://www.runbumtours.com/
Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/ @LGDesigns.me
016 Froggy Mountain Adventures & the Milk Man
23 Aug 2023
00:46:54
Paul Tilley decided he wanted a trail of his own. He bought property, near Galax, Virginia, with the intention of building his own epic trail. Fast forward, and we have Froggy Mountain Adventures. A few years later, and lots of sweat hours, he has turned his property into the site of arguably the most vert in a 100 mile race. Each lap is just over 1 mile with 500' up, and 500' down. Do the math. When we think of ultra and trail running, Paul Tilley is the poster boy. He hosts group runs almost every day of the week. He's recently started building out camping, glamping and overlanding sites on the Froggy Mountain Property. Check out this latest conversation, and see if you have what it takes to tackle the Froggy Mountain 100mile race.
Thanks for listening and remember, Bend Don't Break.
Check out Froggy Mountain and everything Paul is up to at https://www.instagram.com/beerbellyrunning/
If you're looking for some fall races for your 2023 calendar, check out our races open for registration now! https://www.runbumtours.com/
Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/ @LGDesigns.me
015- RunFluent- Not just coaching, its a community
16 Aug 2023
01:19:28
This is an episode that has been in the making since February. Runbum interviewed Ivi Stangle of RunFluent and we've been anxiously awaiting to interview her partner in RunFluent, and life, Chris Stangle. We finally got a chance to talk to Chris a few weeks ago about his coaching, and also 1st place finish at a true FloridaMan race, the Octopus Ultra. A gnarly 100mile in the middle of Florida summer makes this race an epic adventure, even for the seasoned runners. RunFluent is one of few coaching companies that we like to recommend when it comes to coaching and nutrition. They not only build your training plan to make you a better runner, they provide an amazing community and support system for runners across the state, and country.
Thanks for listening and remember, Bend Don't Break.
We here at RunBum Studios have started a new series called "Running Beta." These will be quick episodes with training, gear, and nutrition tips. On todays episode, RunBum talks about something thats sort of taboo in the running world: trekking poles. We think they are a great addition to your long races and training days. Running with poles can drastically help your speed and efficiency at climbing those steep climbs, and also help with those last miles in a long, long race. If you're just listening to this running beta podcast, you might want to check out the video version on our YouTube channel as well! https://www.youtube.com/@runbumraces
Thanks for listening and remember, Bend Don't Break.
If you're looking for some fall races for your 2023 calendar, check out our races open for registration now! https://www.runbumtours.com/
013 - Janice Anderson - From the Track to the Trails: GUTS Founder
26 Jul 2023
00:54:02
Today the Runbum talks with Janice Anderson. Janice is the epitome of inspiration to switch from the track to the trail. Janice was a fast track athlete from a young age; running her first marathon in the 8th grade at the rocket city marathon! She progressed to running fast 100k road races on the USATF team, setting multiple records and wins. She quickly progressed to one of the best ultra distance runners in the Southeast. She was the first woman to break 17 hours in a 100mile trail race. Held multiple course records, and was a 5 time member of the 100k National Team. With her work at USATF and the Atlanta Track Club, she founded GUTS, Georgia Ultrarunning & Trailrunning Society, which has been running strong since 2004.
This episode is packed full of inspiration, training advice, and stories of the progression of ultra running. Sit back with a cup of Tailwind, and your favorite gel, and enjoy!
GUTS Founded in 2004, Georgia Ultrarunning & Trailrunning Society (GUTS) is a non-profit, all-volunteer, club of fun and adventure loving runners whose mission is to encourage and promote trail and long distance running. GUTS holds races of various distances through out Georgia. We also have a weekly group run, a longer distance bi-monthly run and the eagerly anticipated GUTS End of Year (EOY) party, er, meeting! It’s easy, it’s inexpensive, and it’s worth it. https://www.getguts.com
If you're looking for some fall races for your 2023 calendar, check out our races open for registration now! https://www.runbumtours.com/
In this episode, we talk with Rosie Gagnon, who has run 76 100-milers in just a short time period. They discuss Rosie's motivation for running 100-milers, which stems from the loss of her son to suicide. Rosie is passionate about raising awareness for veteran suicide and supports organizations like 'Wear Blue: Run to Remember' and '22 Too Many.' Rosie shares her training approach, which involves running a 100-miler as her long run and focusing on time on her feet rather than speed. She also emphasizes the importance of having a strong mental fortitude and recommends simulating race conditions during training, such as running in bad weather or on technical terrain. In this part of the conversation, Rosie and Run Bum discuss various aspects of training and race day strategy for a hundred-mile race.
Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/ @LGDesigns.me
024 - Deanna Doane and the FKT State - Florida Trail FKT!
07 Mar 2025
01:50:08
Deanna Doane - new FKT holder of the Florida Trail.
Join us for an epic, raw, and unscripted conversation as host Scottapants, Deanna Doane’s crew chief, sits down with the trailblazing ultrarunner herself.
Deanna just smashed the Fastest Known Time on the Florida Trail, conquering 1,100 miles in a jaw-dropping 19 days, 12 hours, and 13 minutes—an average of 57 miles a day. She obliterated the previous record by nearly two full days.
This episode dives deep into the highs, lows, smiles, and tears of this grueling adventure, unpacking what it took to turn an audacious goal into reality.
From blistering heat to soul-crushing fatigue, hear the untold stories behind the triumph. Then, buckle up for mind-blowing details about the Florida Trail itself: a wild, 1,100-mile beast stretching from the swamps of Big Cypress to the panhandle’s rugged forests, teeming with alligators, sandy stretches, and unrelenting beauty. This is a front-row seat to an extraordinary feat of human endurance—straight from the trail, no filter.
Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/ @LGDesigns.me
026 - Surviving GDR 2025 - Tails from the Trail
06 Apr 2025
01:14:33
Surviving GDR 2025 - Tails from the Trail with Amy Johnson & Stephen Ball
In this episode of the East Coast Ultra Running Podcast, Runbum and Scottapants sit down with Georgia Death Race 2025 participants Amy Johnson and Stephen Ball to break down their wild and unforgettable experiences on one of the East Coast’s most grueling ultra courses.
🏆 Amy Johnson took first place female, proving that a love for the journey and a strong mindset can overcome any obstacle. From training with a double stroller to forgetting her headlamp at the start of the race, Amy’s story is a testament to embracing the unexpected, relying on community support, and just going for it. She also shares her thoughts on encouraging more fast runners to tackle the GDR and how her husband’s unwavering support made all the difference.
🤢 Stephen Ball might not have finished first, but his journey was just as inspiring. Balancing a demanding nursing career with race training, Stephen recounts the ups and downs of the GDR, from mental strategies to keep moving, to gastrointestinal struggles that almost derailed his race. With humor and resilience, Stephen talks about breaking the course into mental segments, overtraining on climbs, and the brutal reality of the descents.
Both runners reflect on what they learned from GDR 2025, the importance of community support, and their future goals – including Stephen’s determination to crack a sub-20 next time.
Whether you’re training for your first ultra or eyeing the Georgia Death Race yourself, this conversation is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and the gritty reality of what it takes to conquer the course.
Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/ @LGDesigns.me
025 - Georgia Death Race - History & the Burden
18 Mar 2025
00:45:39
In this episode of the East Coast Ultra Running Podcast, hosts Sean Runbum Blanton and Scott Abshire discuss the Georgia Death Race, its history, challenges, and notable runners.
We reflect on recent achievements in ultra running, including the Florida trail fastest known time, and delve into the evolution of the Georgia Death Race course over the years. The conversation highlights the physical and mental challenges faced by participants, the significance of course records, and the growing presence of women in ultra running, showcasing upcoming competitors to watch. We dive into the competitive landscape of this years GDR, focusing on both male and female top athletes.
We emphasize the significance of the Georgia Death Race, including its unique challenges and the symbolic burden of the railroad spike.
Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/ @LGDesigns.me
028 - Appalachian Trail: The Return of the Mega Runner - Kristian Morgan
06 May 2025
01:15:43
In this conversation, Kristian Morgan shares his experiences training for the Appalachian Trail (AT) while living in Thailand. He discusses his training strategies, daily routines, nutrition, and the mental resilience required for long-distance running.
Kristian also reflects on his past record attempts, injuries, and the importance of pacing and crew support during these challenges. In this conversation, Kristian Morgan discusses his experiences and challenges with attempting to set a Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the Appalachian Trail.
He shares insights on the mental and physical aspects of ultra running, the importance of support crews, and the impact of natural disasters like Hurricane Helene on trail conditions. Kristian also reflects on his training methods, the concept of mega running, and his aspirations beyond the Appalachian Trail, including raising funds for recovery efforts and writing a book about his experiences.
Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/ @LGDesigns.me
027 - Between the Miles - Timing isn't everything
22 Apr 2025
00:09:35
🎙️ Between the Miles: Timing Isn’t Everything Ever felt like your pace doesn’t stack up? This bite-sized monologue dives into the trap of comparison in ultra running—and why your journey is what really matters. Pocket dates, mile 23 meltdowns, and finding joy in the grind. Your race. No one else’s.
Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/ @LGDesigns.me
030 - Women Rule the Trail: FKT holders Tara Dower & Deanna Doane
28 May 2025
01:17:22
What happens when two of the fastest women on dirt finally meet? Magic—and a lot of wild trail stories.
In this special episode, we bring together Tara Dower, record-holder of the supported Appalachian Trail FKT, and Deanna Doane, who just completed a blazing supported FKT on the Florida Trail. It’s the first time these two endurance legends have met, and the conversation is as real, raw, and ridiculous as you’d hope.
Alongside them are their crew MVPs—Rascal, who supported Tara’s 40-day AT effort, and Scott, who crewed Deanna for 1,100+ swampy, buggy, baby-food-fueled Florida miles. Together, they unpack the highs, the meltdowns, the midnight poop logs, the foot lube routines, and the mental math gymnastics that go into chasing something huge.
From trail hallucinations and van-life chaos to “don’t tell Tara” crew drama and eating Thai curry through a NutriBullet, this episode dives deep into the unglamorous but epic pursuit of fastest known times. Whether you’re into FKTs, crewing, or just love hearing people suffer beautifully in the name of adventure—this one’s for you.
Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/ @LGDesigns.me
029 - Between the Miles - Choosing Your Hard w/ Teresa Bowser
13 May 2025
00:12:51
Between the Miles: Choosing Your Hard with Teresa Bowser In this reflective and honest episode, ECUR listener and bada$$ ultra runner, Teresa Bowser dives into the idea of "choosing your hard"—in running and in life. From the decision between tackling a mountainous race or a flat one, to realizing how comfort zones quietly shape our choices, Teresa shares what she's learned mid-run and beyond. She explores how growth often hides in the unfamiliar and how trying something different hard can be just as powerful as doing something harder. Tune in for insight, vulnerability, and a nudge to push your own limits—and don't forget to share your story too.
Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/ @LGDesigns.me
032 - Rim to River - Bryant Baker - Run, Raft in West Virginia
12 Jun 2025
01:02:15
In this episode, Bryant Baker takes us on a journey from his days as a river guide to his multifaceted roles as an ultra runner, race director, and community advocate. Bryant delves into how outdoor activities have profoundly impacted his mental health and personal growth, emphasizing the essential role of community and volunteers in making these experiences possible.
We learn about his passion project, the Trifecta race series, and how it has become a force for economic growth and connection in the local community. Bryant also discusses his work as the operations manager at ACE, where he leads transformative outdoor trips for youth through Adventure Appalachia—a nonprofit initiative dedicated to providing free outdoor experiences that build confidence, resilience, and a love of nature.
The conversation touches on the challenges and logistics of race directing and trail building, as well as innovative programs like the run and raft experience, which blend endurance and adventure in new ways. Through it all, Bryant champions the power of the outdoors to heal, uplift, and bring people together.
Rim to River Endurance Co
Check out the Trifecta, or sign up for a Raft and Run expedition!
Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/ @LGDesigns.me
031 - Abigail West - FKT Edition - The Georgia Loop
05 Jun 2025
01:00:50
In this episode, Abigail West shares her inspiring journey of completing a Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the rugged Georgia Loop, a challenging 56 mile route in the Southeast with nearly 14,000 feet of climbing. Abigail dives into the intricacies of preparing for an FKT, highlighting the importance of balancing weather, training, and the invaluable role of crew support. Yes crew is important, but having friends to run with was the most important part for her.
Beyond the stats, Abigail reflects on how FKTs offer a unique way to engage with trails—free from the constraints of a traditional race and deeply rooted in the joy of exploration. She discusses how mindset shapes performance and how positive feedback loops can turn even the toughest days into moments of growth and discovery.
Abigail also opens up about her dual passions for art and running, revealing how linocut printmaking and trail running are intertwined in her life, both demanding creativity, skill, and presence. Her recent FKT, finishing in 11 hours, 4 minutes, and 53 seconds, is a testament to her resilience and dedication.
Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the power of community, the mental fortitude needed to navigate pain, and the importance of finding fun and meaning in the journey—reminding us that whether it’s art, running, or the spaces between, what matters most is embracing the adventure.
Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by Looking Glass Designs, LLC https://www.lgdesigns.me/ @LGDesigns.me
033 - Between The Miles - The Woo Woo of Ultrarunning
27 Jun 2025
00:09:55
In this solo episode of Between the Miles, Scottapants gets full control of the mic—and things get weird (in the best way). From burning sage in the parking lot to chanting mantras mid-race, he dives into the “woo woo” side of ultra running: mindset, meditation, mantras, and the occasional runner’s high that feels like cosmic alignment.
He shares stories of how mindfulness and spiritual practices transformed his training, recounts a marathon weekend powered by Om Mani Padme Hum, and breaks down techniques like Isha Kriya and Run Mindful. It’s funny, it’s heartfelt, and it might just convince you that aligning your chakras at mile 87 isn't such a crazy idea after all.
Whether you meditate to monk chants or MMMBop, this one’s for anyone curious about the mental magic behind the miles.