The Steep Stuff Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Send us a text

Ever wondered what it takes to be the fastest mullet in the Wasatch? Buckle up for a high-octane conversation with ultra runner Grant Barnette on the Steep Stuff Podcast! This episode promises to take you through Grant's jaw-dropping accomplishments in the trail running world, his ambitious 24-hour vertical skiing record attempt, and the storied journey from high school cross country to the iconic UTMB. Get ready to be inspired by Grant’s incredible tales of grit and perseverance as he reflects on his journey, the lessons learned, and his future ambitions in the ultra-running scene.

Navigating the intricacies of race nutrition can be as challenging as the races themselves, and Grant doesn’t hold back in sharing his insights. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just getting your feet wet, you’ll gain valuable knowledge on the best strategies for carbohydrate intake, managing heat and terrain, and fighting off nausea. Learn about the innovative nutrition products out there and the importance of personalizing your nutrition plan. Plus, get an insider's look at what it’s like working in sports marketing with Pit Viper and the cutting-edge Sky Surfer sunglasses that are revolutionizing endurance sports.

But it’s not all about the races; we also dive into the world behind the events. From the logistics of organizing a 24-hour vertical skiing record attempt to the culture of trail running and the dynamics of the outdoor industry, this episode covers it all. Hear personal anecdotes about notable athletes, the benefits of off-season training like backcountry skiing, and the social dynamics that fuel the competitive ultrarunning community. With topics ranging from the controversial gondola project in the Wasatch Range to the quirky allure of Bigfoot, this episode is a thrilling rollercoaster through the highs and lows of endurance sports.

Grant Barnette Instagram - @runwithgrant

Send us a text

UTMB OCC Race Preview with Special Guest, Benjamin Townsend 

Send us a text

What drives someone to transition from aspiring musical theater performer to a passionate downhill runner? Tatum Russo takes us on a riveting journey from her early years in Arizona to her life in Colorado Springs, detailing how her childhood fascination with running blossomed into a career. She moved to Colorado at the tender age of seven and has since become a prominent figure in the running community, all while navigating the intense demands of musical theater and balancing her creative pursuits.

Feel the anticipation build as we discuss the upcoming Broken Arrow race, with the thrilling possibility of seeing Jim Walmsley compete. We share personal anecdotes about overcoming winter injuries and the relentless challenge of peroneal tendinitis, which threatened Tatum's participation in the event. From close encounters with wildlife to the emotional roller coaster of injury and recovery, this episode captures the unpredictable essence of trail running and the resilience required to persevere.

But that's not all—Tatum's journey extends beyond the tracks. We explore her deep-rooted passion for musical theater, the psychological impact of portraying various characters, and the arduous path to mastering music theory. As we navigate topics ranging from inspiring musicians to the mysterious allure of Bigfoot, we also tackle the complex relationship between human creativity and artificial intelligence. Join us for a compelling conversation that celebrates the spirit of pursuing excellence and the intricate dance between art, performance, and sport.

Send us a text

Ever wondered how elite trail runners tackle some of the most grueling courses? You'll find out in this episode of the Steep Stuff Podcast. We dive headfirst into the exhilarating world of trail racing, starting with the Bar Trail Mountain Race on July 21, 2024. From the challenging course to the standout performances of Ashley Brasovan and Joseph Gray, we cover it all, including insights from an elite panel featuring Christina Mascarenas and Sarah Ghul. Plus, don’t miss the spotlight on Speedgoat 50K and 28K and the Cirque Series Alyeska, where we celebrate the incredible endurance of these top athletes.

In the second segment, we highlight the top finishers from recent Cirque Series races, including the Snowbird Speed Gear 28K and the Alyeska. Celebrate with us as Robin Lesh and Hawk Call claim their victories in the 28K, while Kendall Kramer and David Norris triumph in the Alyeska race. We also delve into what makes the Alyeska course so captivating and give a sneak peek into our upcoming Tatum Russo podcast episode. Don’t forget to check out the results online, rate us on Spotify and Apple, and stay tuned for more thrilling updates. Enjoy your week and join us for an exhilarating journey through the world of trail racing!

Send us a text

What does it take to become the captain of the US Sky Running team? Get ready to be inspired as we chat with Joseph Demoor, the pride of Carbondale, Colorado. Joseph shares his rich family history in running, his collegiate journey at the University of Colorado Boulder, and the influential figures that have shaped his career. Discover how he’s spearheading a fundraising campaign for the team's upcoming European competition and his lifelong passion for mountain adventures.

We explore the profound bond between Joseph and his brother, showcasing how their shared love for running has led them to incredible feats like conquering Mount Elbert. The conversation highlights the importance of longevity and adaptability in the sport, with inspiring anecdotes from legends like Max King and Joseph Gray. Joseph also provides an insider's look at the Sky Running World Championships in Soria, Spain, revealing the team's selection process and the significance of this prestigious event.

Join us as we navigate through the unique landscapes of trail racing series such as WMRA, Golden Trail Series, and sky running. Joseph discusses the logistics of event selection, his career transition from Aspen Mountain to Buttermilk Ski Area, and the nuances of training between winter ski-focused workouts and summer running. We cap off the episode with a light-hearted chat about wildlife encounters in Colorado, making this an episode packed with both insight and fun.

To Donate to the US Skyrunning Team - https://givebutter.com/Skyrunning2024 

Joseph's Instagram - @josedemoor https://www.instagram.com/josedemoor/

Send us a text

What happens when an athlete's career is derailed by injuries, only to find a new, unexpected path to fulfillment? Join us on the Steep Stuff Podcast as we sit down with Jordyn Milbrath from Boulder, Colorado, who transformed her passion for soccer into a love for running. Jordan opens up about her inspiring journey, from her YouTube channel "Chasing Joe" to her bold decision with her fiancé Chase to leave corporate America and start a business. Their successful lightning bolt earrings collaboration with Walters and Hogsett is just the tip of the iceberg in this tale of resilience, freedom, and entrepreneurial spirit.

In this episode, we unpack the complexities of embracing multiple athletic identities and the pressures that come with competition. Jordan and other athletes share how diversifying interests can lead to greater resilience and joy in the journey. We also dive into the major life transitions, such as moving from a corporate career to an adventurous, more fulfilling lifestyle. Expect to hear stories about bikepacking adventures, the highs and lows of the Cirque Series races, and the mental clarity achieved through these pursuits. This is a conversation that underscores the importance of finding fulfillment beyond the confines of traditional roles.

But that's not all—get ready for some wild tales and thoughtful reflections. We touch on everything from the emotional pressures of high-stakes competitions to thrilling mountain biking excursions. Jordan shares her encounters with nature’s mysteries, including gripping anecdotes about Bigfoot and aliens. We wrap up with a discussion on personal goals for the year ahead and an exciting new business venture focused on holistic healing. Whether you’re an athlete, an entrepreneur, or someone looking for inspiration, this episode offers a rich tapestry of insights and adventures.

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/c/ChasingJo 
Instagram - @jordyn.milbrath /  https://www.instagram.com/jordyn.milbrath/ 
Chasing Jo Travel Shop -  https://www.thatch.co/@chasingjo
Chasing Jo Discounts Linktree -  https://linktr.ee/jordynmilbrath 

Send us a text

LIVE From the Barr Trail Mountain Race Elite Panel Night 

Panelists !
- Joseph Gray
- Jonathan Aziz 
- Christina Mascarenas 
- Sarah Guhl 
- Tatum Russo
- Michael Everson
- Benjamin Townsend 

Send us a text

Curious about how a passion for cycling can fuel a groundbreaking entrepreneurial journey? Join us on the Steep Stuff Podcast as we chat with Gabe Multer, CEO and co-founder of CarbsFuel. Gabe shares his incredible story of transforming his love for endurance sports into a mission-driven company that aims to make high-quality, low-cost nutrition accessible to athletes everywhere. From his roots in Santa Cruz, California, to his adventures in the Colorado mountains, Gabe's journey is packed with inspiration and valuable lessons for anyone looking to turn their passion into a thriving business.

Ever wondered what goes into creating an energy gel that's both effective and affordable? We dive into CarbsFuel's meticulous product development process, from kitchen experiments to navigating FDA regulations with expert help. Gabe reveals the critical decisions that shaped their innovative energy gel, including the choice between self-manufacturing and contracting out production. Discover how CarbsFuel's disruptive pricing model and strategic marketing efforts helped them stand out in a crowded market, making their products a favorite among endurance athletes.

But it doesn't stop at business. Gabe opens up about starting Holy Cow Racing, a cycling team built on community and inclusivity, and how his entrepreneurial and athletic pursuits complement each other. We also explore broader topics like industry disruption, the role of AI in education and sustainability, and even some fun cryptid lore. This episode is a treasure trove of insights, challenges, and triumphs, perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs and sports enthusiasts alike.

Send us a text

Ready for an adrenaline-packed episode of Steep Stuff Podcast? Hold on tight as we bring you the latest thrills from the mountain running scene! From Joseph Gray’s jaw-dropping 25th national championship win at Loon Mountain to Lauren Gregory and Rachel Tomciak making the USA national team, we have all the juicy details. We’ll also take you through the intense battles at the Cirque Series Snowbird in Utah and give you an exclusive glimpse into the drama-filled Cordillera Blanca Sky Race in Peru. Feel the excitement as we celebrate high-flying performances from top athletes across the globe, including stunning finishes at the Kendall Mountain Run and Mount Marathon.

Join us as we shine a spotlight on heroic local racers like Rio and Benjamin Townsend, plus a special nod to podcast friend Jackson Cole's top-ten triumph in Peru. Discover how Jose Manuel Cuzepe and Karina Carciolo dominated the Codora Cora de la Ria Blanca Sky Race while also catching up on key moments from the Kendall Mountain Run featuring stars like Cam Smith and Noah Williams. As we wrap up, get pumped for the upcoming Speedgoat 50K and 28K in Snowbird, Utah, where an electrifying rematch between Adam Peterman and David Sinclair awaits. Don’t miss out on this episode filled with gripping recaps and previews of what's next in the world of mountain running!

Send us a text

Ever wondered how an athlete from a small golf town in North Carolina could conquer the world of trail running? Join us as we welcome the godfather of sub-ultra trail running, Andy Wacker, who shares his transformational journey from his hometown of Pinehurst to the professional trail running circuits. Hear about Andy’s early love for nature and bushwhacking, his competitive high school career, and his time running for the University of Colorado in Boulder. Gain insider knowledge on Andy’s ongoing projects, including the Trail Team, and his exciting plans for the 2023 and 2024 seasons.

We dig into the hurdles trail runners face when entering elite races, delving into Andy’s personal experiences and the essential mindset shift required to overcome these challenges. From the necessity of a UTMB index score to the financial burdens of self-funding trips to world championships, Andy’s journey is a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice. Learn about the creation and impact of the Trail Team, an organization designed to nurture emerging trail running talents, and hear the compelling story of Christian Allen, proving the untapped potential in under-the-radar athletes.

Building a supportive community is at the core of trail running's evolution in the U.S., and Andy takes us through the inception and structure of the Trail Team. Discover how avoiding corporate sponsorships allows young athletes to receive genuine mentorship and the freedom to pursue races aligning with their personal goals. From the unique experiences at training camps in Rocky Mountain National Park to tales of overcoming physical and mental challenges in international competitions, Andy’s stories are a blend of resilience, community, and the relentless pursuit of passion. Don’t miss out on this enriching conversation with one of trail running’s most influential figures!