Explore every episode of the podcast The Trail Life Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Brittany, an elite ultra runner and coach with Peak Run Performance. Brittany shares her journey from discovering running in high school to becoming a notable figure in the ultra running community. She discusses her experiences with different races, her love for trail running, and the challenges she faced including severe injuries that led to hip surgeries and an ankle fracture. Brittany reflects on her comeback and the mental resilience required to overcome setbacks. She also touches on her coaching philosophy, the importance of strength training, and her goals for the future, including her aspirations to compete in unique international races. This inspirational story highlights Brittany's dedication, resilience, and passion for running and coaching.

@runhappyb

Peak Run Performance | Professional Online Running and Nutrition Coaching

In this Episode, Izzy B talk to Catra Corbett (Dirt Diva), an experienced trail and ultra-runner who shares her journey into trail running and ultra marathons. Catra recounts how she began running after getting sober and rapidly progressed from a 10K to marathons, trail races, and eventually ultra distances. She highlights her first experiences with 50K, 50-mile, and 100-mile races, and delves into her passion for solo mountain projects and FKTs (fastest known times).

Catra also discusses her numerous accomplishments in 200 and 300-mile races such as the Badwater 135, Tahoe 200, and other endurance challenges. She emphasizes the importance of incorporating sleep and proper nutrition in ultra races, citing specific vegan food choices that keep her fueled. Moreover, the she shares her training regimen, which includes regular gym workouts, plyometrics, and running high-mileage weeks. Lastly, she introduces her adorable trail running dachshunds and talks about their contributions to her adventures. The runner closes with words of wisdom, urging listeners to act now on their dreams and not to wait for the future.

Instagram: @dirtdiva333

Book: Reborn on the Run: My Journey from Addiction to Ultramarathons

In this episode, we welcome Jesse Ellis, an accomplished ultra runner and professional photographer. We delve into his journey from running school track and cross-country to becoming a key figure in the ultrarunning community. Jesse shares how he got into trail running, his experiences running and photographing races like Western States and Broken Arrow, and how he balanced his passion for running with building a successful photography business. We explore his transition from photographing weddings to capturing iconic shots of ultra runners, his commitment to portraying every runner's story, and his future aspirations in live streaming races. Jesse also discusses the importance of family, the dynamics of managing his growing team, and his plans for personal fitness and race goals.

Instagram: @trailwhisperer

In this episode, Priscilla shares her journey from casual jogger to passionate runner and co-founder of the Santa Mujeres Running Club. She recounts her memorable experiences, such as meeting her host during a Tailwind photo shoot and taking on various challenging races like the Triple Crown and the Broken Arrow Sky Race. Priscilla discusses how her love for running evolved into trail and mountain running, her involvement with various ambassador programs, and her dedication to creating a supportive community for women runners of all paces and backgrounds. She highlights the mission and goals of her running club, the importance of community support, and her future ambitions in both personal and club-related endeavors.

instagram: @santamujeresrc

In this episode of Ultra Buds Unleashed from the Trail Life podcast, guest host Izzy B interviews Chris Raup, a U.S. Army veteran and founder of the Warrior Trail Foundation. Chris shares his inspiring journey from discovering ultra running in his early 50s to completing some of the toughest 200-mile races. Chris discusses the mission of the Warrior Trail Foundation, which provides recreational therapy, coaching, and mental health services for veterans and their families. The conversation covers how trail running has been transformative for Chris and others dealing with PTSD, MST, and physical disabilities, offering a new sense of purpose and community. Chris also recounts the experience of supporting elite runner Jeff Browning’s FKT on the Colorado Trail as a fundraiser for the foundation and outlines upcoming events and ways people can support the cause.

Instragram: @warriortrailfoundation

Website: Warrior Trail Foundation

00:00 Introduction to Ultra Buds Unleashed

01:29 Chris Raupp's Journey into Ultra Running

08:46 The Birth of the Warrior Trail Foundation

15:48 Challenges and Growth of the Foundation

20:04 Jeff Browning's Colorado Trail FKT

25:42 Reflecting on an Unforgettable Week

26:08 Behind the Scenes: Social Media and Teamwork

26:46 Scott Jurek's Surprising Snack

27:47 The Power of Community Support

28:41 Announcing the Foundation's Mission

30:02 Expanding Coaching Programs

32:25 Challenges Faced by Veterans

34:52 The Wander Project Partnership

36:34 Upcoming Fundraising Events

43:45 Race Schedule and Veteran Participation

47:24 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

In this episode of the Trail Life Podcast, 'Ultra Buds Unleashed,' with guest host Isabella Janovick, Isabella interviews Kevin Goldberg, an accomplished ultra runner and endurance coach. Kevin shares his journey from starting as a casual runner to tackling some of the toughest 200-plus mile races. He discusses his hip surgeries, his entry into the ultra running scene, and his experiences running races like the Tour de Gence and Cocodona 250. Kevin also talks about his work at Training Peaks, coaching athletes, and his podcast 'Distance to Empty,' which focuses on the 200-mile distance. This episode is filled with insights into ultra running, training tips, and an inspiring story of resilience and passion.

00:00 Welcome Back to the Trail Life Podcast

00:52 Introducing Ultra Buds Unleashed

02:23 Meet Kevin Goldberg: Ultra Runner and Endurance Coach

03:43 Kevin's Journey into Trail Running

04:58 The Challenge of 200-Mile Races

10:49 Experiencing the Tour de Gence

15:20 The People's Runner: Kevin's Cocodona Experience

18:10 Balancing a Career in the Running Industry

23:03 Balancing Coaching and Full-Time Work

23:38 Starting the Distance to Empty Podcast

24:27 Podcast Success and Community Impact

26:23 Training and Work-Life Balance

29:06 Big Races and Events for 2025

31:26 Pacing, Crewing, and Podcast Growth

34:37 Advice for New 200 Mile Runners

37:05 Favorite and Dream Races

40:08 Inspiring Hip Surgery Story

In this episode of the SWCHBAK Chronicles, host Michelle is joined by special guest co-host Isabella Janovick and guest Alyssa Clark, an accomplished endurance athlete. They discuss Alyssa's various achievements, including her first-place finish in the SD100, her love for heat over cold weather, and her experiences training and competing in ultra-endurance events. Alyssa also shares insights into her beginnings in endurance sports, her inspirations, and the physical and mental challenges of completing 200-mile races. The episode provides tips for heat management during races and explores the concept of Fastest Known Times (FKTs), encouraging more women to participate.

00:00 Introduction to the Trail Life Podcast

00:50 Meet Our Special Guest: Alyssa Clark

02:16 Alyssa's Experience at SD 100

03:21 Heat Training Tips and Techniques

08:35 Upcoming Races and Training Plans

13:26 The Role of Treadmills in Training

19:41 Alyssa's Journey into Endurance Sports

26:00 Meeting Callie Vinson and Race Stories

26:19 Training and Attempting 200-Mile Races

27:41 Challenges and Breakthroughs in Ultra Running

30:15 Crew and Pacer Experiences

35:40 The Impact of Ultra Running on the Body

40:54 Encouraging Women to Set FKTs

46:30 Pet Stories and Wrapping Up

In our final special of the SWCHBAK Chronicles limited series, Michelle Johnson is joined by Cody Taylor and Alan from Death March Running Company. Based out of Colorado, they share their humorous and inspiring journey into the world of ultra-running. The conversation covers the origins of Death March Running, their experiences pacing and crewing, and the significance of community in the sport. The episode also highlights Michelle's recent venture, Switchback Collective, a shop featuring women-owned brands. With stories of races, training, and the inevitable hardships, this episode celebrates the spirit and camaraderie of the ultra-running community.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview

01:39 Matcha Addiction and Coffee Shop Woes

02:53 Introducing Cody and Alan from Death March Running Company

04:14 Switchback and Death March Collaboration

05:37 The Importance of Quality and Small Business Values

07:53 Trail Running Community and Partnerships

12:28 The Birth of Ultra Running Passion

16:43 The Magic and Misery of Pacing

27:15 Getting into Ultra Running

28:07 The Birth of Death March Running Company

31:01 Creating Unique Running Gear

32:22 Challenges and Triumphs of Running a Business

37:33 The Running Event Experience

41:06 Switchback Collective: A Women-Owned Business

47:32 Balancing Business and Running

55:59 Closing Remarks and Future Plans

In this special edition of the Trail Life podcast, Michelle Johnson from SWCHBAK interviews Sarah Tomal, an ultra runner and sponsored athlete from San Diego. Sarah shares her inspiring journey from starting as an angry runner after a bad breakup to working toward her first 100-mile race. They discuss her experiences with Spartan races, overcoming a significant hip injury, and her return to ultra running. The conversation also touches on the mental and physical challenges of training for long-distance races, the importance of listening to one's body, and Sarah’s upcoming SD Hundred run.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

01:20 DMV Experience

02:09 Meeting Sarah Tamal

03:52 Sarah's Running Journey Begins

05:55 Transition to Spartan Racing

08:22 From Injury to Ultra Running

14:20 Facing a Major Setback

18:47 Dealing with Diagnosis and Treatment

20:00 The Journey of Recovery

23:32 Mental Challenges of Ultra Running

23:57 Preparing for the 100-Mile Race

27:29 The Ultra Running Community

32:15 Fun and Food in Ultra Running

35:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In our new limited series: The SwchBak Chronicles, Michelle Johnson steps in for usual host Jeff Stoner to talk with Daniel Smith and Eric Spin, key figures from the San Diego Trail Runners group.

The conversation explores their personal journeys into running, with Eric sharing how he transitioned from smoking and junk food to running marathons, and Daniel talking about his background in boxing and coaching kids' sports. The duo discusses how the San Diego Trail Runners came to be, emphasizing their ethos of 'No Runner Left Behind'. Eric and Daniel highlight the importance of community support in trail running and share humorous anecdotes about their running experiences and motivations. They also offer valuable advice for newcomers to trail running and reflect on how trail running has impacted their lives. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just getting into the sport, this episode provides an inspiring look at what it means to be part of a running community.

In the final episode of 2023, I am joined by Spring Energy Founders Rafal Nazarewicz and Adam Goleniewski but talk about how Spring Energy got its starts and how they created the flavor profiles. Thank you to Rafa and Adam for delivering a product that is widely loved and enjoyed by the trail running community.

myspringenergy.com

I am joined by Everyday Ultra Podcast host, and ultra runner Joe Corcione to get caught up on his journey with the Javelina Jundred, his podcast, coaching, and just to talk some BS. Please enjoy and welcome back to the Trail Life... Joe Corcione

PODCAST: EVERYDAY ULTRA

INSTA: JOECORCIONE and THEEVERYDAYULTRA

I am joined by friend, race sponsor, and fellow business owner, Michelle Johnson. We talk her trail journey and how that led to her new business venture in the trail running community. She gives us the breakdown on SWCHBAK.SWCHBAK Neck & Head Outdoor Gear Running Hiking@swchbak

I am joined this week by Andy Glaze to talk about his current 179 week run streak (current as of 8/18/23) and how he got started on his trail running journey. We discuss his experiences along the way, some of the best food he has seen (and drank/eaten) along his international racing adventures. Welcome to the Trail Life.... Andy Glaze.Follow Andy on instagram: @amglaze

I am joined by 2023 Cocodona 250 Women's Champion... Sarah Ostaszewski. She talks her journey into trail running, and how it led to her victory at this year's Cocodona=-0987` event. She recaps her race, and some of the stories along the way. Please enjoy... Welcome to the Trail Life, Sarah Ostaszewski.

follow on Instagram @sarahostaszewski

• shopwordsfromthewild.square.site
• Audio to https://www.amazon.com/shop/anishhikes?listId=10OKZCZRZZSRI
• Ebook to https://www.amazon.com/shop/anishhikes?listId=OL804U68LGPT

In this episode or our "Local Series" I am joined by Colorado runner Tate Behning to talk about his trail journey, favorite running spots, growing up in small town Iowa, and how he got out to the Colorado Front Range.

In this episode i am join by an old friend and one of the original guests to the Trail Life podcast. Sean Lake sits down to catch up and talk running but also how Collegan protein can benefit the trail runner for not only recovery but also training.

Follow Bubs Natruals on social media @bubsnaturals

bubsnaturals.com

TRAIL LIFE DISCOUNT CODE: ERS20

I am joined once again by Ben Light and Mike Mcknight to recap their AZT 800 Challenge. They share the stories, their struggles, and what they learned out on the Arizona Trail.

@thelowcarbrunner

@adventure.your.potential

I am joined this week by San Diego local favorite Lori Engle (Hillzilla). She talks about her journey into trail running, her favorite (and sometimes secret) trail running spots.

Welcome to the Trail Life... Lori Engle

@frexybetty

Next up on our local series is Cy Foster. Cy joins me in this Holiday episode to talk about his journey into trail running and what the sport means to him. welcome to the trail life... Cy Foster

@belike_cy (instagram)

In our new "local" series we will be talking to trail runners in the Colorado or San Diego areas, to get insight on the local trail scenes and stories to where the Endurance Race Series and Host Jeff Stoner is based.

In today's episode i am joined by the Kiled Runner Randy Hinman. He talks Colorado front range trails, and his journey into trail running and his first 50K finish. please enjoy! welcome to the trail life... Randy Hinman

@randykiltedrunner

In this episode I am join by Ultra Athlete Kristian "Capt" Morgan to talk about his Appalachian Trail completion in 44 days, 4 hours, 54 minutes. Making him the 2nd fastest person to ever complete this feat.

We discuss his journey into trail running and his preparation to take on this adventure.

To find out more about Kristian as an Ultra Runner or Ultra Running Coach please visit Ultrarunning Coach (kristianultra.com) or follow him on social media @ultrarunningcoach

Or... Mr. Snacks at the Moab 240! I am joined by Kyle and Ultra Izzy-B Janovick to talk about the Moab 240 from both a runner and a crew perspective. Kyle is a non-runner/soccer player who brings a fresh outsider's perspective to the world of 200-mile ultra races, while Izzy-B brings shares her journey throughout the 240.

Welcome to the Trail Life.... Isabella and Kyle Janovick

follow them on social media

@ultra_izzyb

@snacks_75

I am joined in this episode by Phillip Lowry. He is a Cyber Security Lawyer with a long-distance Ultra problem. He began ultra-running back in 1994 and just completed his 3rd Triple Crown in 2022. Plenty of ultra-stories in between.

Welcome to the Trail Life... Phil Lowry.

@philliplowry

Thank you for listening. this is our Season 5 premiere episode, and we are talking dog safety on the trails. More specifically Heat Stroke and Snake Bites.

I am joined by Dr Stefanie Owczarczak (Dr. O), an emergency veterinarian. She talks signs and symptoms of heat stroke and snake bites, and what runners should know as this happens out on the trail.

Thank you for listening everyone, we all enjoy taking our furry friends on runs and walks, but please be safe out there and know the signs.

Sit back and relax or get pumped up and ready to run! I am joined by Firefighter, smoke diver, and ultra runner Julian Serrano. He brings the heat on the Leadville 100 race while dropping some motivational wisdom at the same time.... welcome to the Trail Life

Julian Serrano

@thejulianserrano

I am joined by Ben Light and Mike McKnight to discuss their AZT800 Project happening in Oct 2022. They share their strategies on directions, terrain, wildlife and much more as they compete with each other heading in opposite directions on the trail while raising money for charity and attempting to break the record for fastest known time.

Follow the AZT800 Project by tracking them at greatwesternadventures.com

Ben Light charity of choice: Bigger Than the Trail

Mike McKnight charity of choice: RODS Heroes

Follow Ben Light: @adventure.your.potential

Follow Mike McKnight: @thelowcarbrunner

I am joined by friends of the podcast Hector Rodriguez and Justin True to talk about their journey and experiences of the Mighty Gallatin 350 in Montana. Please enjoy this candid conversation from these 2 legends. Welcome back to the trail life... Justin True and Hector Rodriguez

I am joined once again by the King of the FKT, Jason Hardrath. We discuss how his Summer went and his Epic 2 for 1 FKT attempt. He talks injury, perseverance, trail running, rock climbing, and even cycling.

Welcome back to the Trail Life... Jason Hardrath

@jasonhardrath

I am joined by new FKT holder for the Sierra Peaks Sections List, Travis Soares. We discuss his 117-day adventure covering 247 peaks, and 729,000' of gain. He discusses his prep work, and how he got into through hiking and rock climbing

During this attempt Travis was raising awareness and money for the Bishop Paiute Tribe Food Sovereignty Program, which works to increase access to and awareness of healthy, traditional and environmentally responsible community grown food that acknowledges, preserves, and strengthens existing community food systems and tribal sovereignty.

Follow Trais on Instagram @travis.soares

I am joined by ultrarunner, coach, and ultra-adventurist, Ben Light. We discuss his journey into trail running, race experiences, and past and future ultra "projects" including his upcoming AZT800 with Mike McKnight

follow Ben @adventure.your.potential

I am joined by Sport Nutritionist/Dietitian Gaby Villa. We discuss the overall or general things a trail runner should know about nutrition and training/race day. The conversation is a practical angle to make it easy for the trail runner. if you have questions for Gaby or want to learn more visit her website or Instagram (details below)

@intenseatfit

https://intenseatfit.scoreapp.com

I am joined by podcast friend, trail runner, and running coach David Roche. He sits down to talk about the 4 scientific lessons on downhill running. The main points of conversation include:

1. Repeated Bouts of downhill running and the adaptations

2. Downhill strides and why different athletes respond in different ways

3. The differences between runnable downhills and steep downhills.

4. The Physiology of downhill performance

To learn more details from the webiner on downhill running click HERE

I am joined by San Diego Trail Running legend George Greco to talk about his journey into trail running and at 74 years young what he has found to be his secret to trail success. Welcome to the Trail Life George Greco

@george.greco.90

I am joined by the UK's finest! Scott Jenkins sits down to share his journey into trail running and ultra-racing. We discuss Cocadona, Badwater, Moab, and many other high-level races, and the lessons he has learned along the way.

We discuss Operation Smile, and how his running is tied to this amazing charity. To Find out more or to donate please visit OPERATIONSMILE.ORG

Follow Scott on social media @scottjjenkins

The Trail Life Podcast is joined by ultra-runner and author Bryan Gillette. We talk about his journey into Trail Running and his upcoming book EPIC Performance: Lessons learned from 100 executive and Ultra Runners

He breaks down what it takes to achieve your goals in any you do personal or out on the trails. His book is now available for pre-order and will be available on August 16, 2022. To get more info on Bryan and his book click HERE or to pre-order visit the link HERE

Follow Bryan on Facebook

I sit down with friend of the podcast and ultra-endurance athlete Justin True to recap his remarkable completion of the True Triathlon. The ups, the downs, the drama, the shark, getting hit by a car, and battling foot problems all to raise awareness for Mental Health... we cover it all!

Please enjoy JUSTIN TRUE

@therealjustintrue

The charity Justin partners with is BIGGER THAN THE TRAIL. to find out more about them, the services they provide, or to donate please visit HERE

In this episode i am joined by my friend Kody Riley, president of Podium Karting and Events in Denver, CO.

Kody is an avid trail runner, ultra-runner, hockey player, and tennis player. We sit down to talk about how he got started doing ultra races and trail running in general. It was a lot of laughs and great stories. Please enjoy Kody Riley!

@kodyrriley

@podiumkarting