After a few chaotic weeks away from the mic, Katie is back and catching up with Leah on everything that’s unfolded lately, from her son's type 1 diabetes diagnosis to the emotional whiplash of balancing family crisis with training, racing, and everyday life. It’s an honest conversation about what happens when running suddenly takes a backseat, and how both of them are navigating UTMB build-up while life keeps throwing curveballs.

They also get into local race wins, steep Salt Lake climbs, late-night mountain runs, Western States pacing plans, Broken Arrow prep, and the momentum women’s trail running is carrying right now after huge performances from Rachel Entrekin, Tove Alexandersson, and more. Through all of it, this episode comes back to the same idea: running can be part of your life without being your entire identity.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠. Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

After a couple missed recording attempts and a very full few weeks, Leah and Hilary finally sit down to catch up. Hilary shares her pregnancy news and what the last few months have looked like balancing training, work, commentary, and just trying to survive the first trimester. The conversation also dives into Cocodona, Rachel Entrekin’s massive performance, the growing momentum behind women’s ultrarunning, and the different ways athletes navigate motherhood, racing, and identity within the sport.

They also touch on Western States training camp season, postpartum running, Hilary’s upcoming film premiere, and why this era of trail running feels especially exciting right now.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠. Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

Katie Asmuth hosts a head to head Black Canyon 100K recap with Jenn Lichter and Anne Flower. Jenn is a Missoula, Montana-based trail runner stepping into her 100K debut after establishing herself as a fearless, high-intensity racer at shorter distances, now racing with Nike ACG. Anne is a Colorado Springs-based ultrarunner known for her strength and composure in longer events, newly racing with HOKA.

Together, they break down how the front pack formed, when the race shifted from controlled pacing to all-out competition, and what it took to keep pressing through the final miles with less than a minute separating first and second. They also share the real details behind fueling, hydration, and decision-making under pressure, then look ahead to Western States prep and how each of them plans to train, preview the course, and carry momentum into the next start line.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠. Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

In this episode, we have a nice heart-to-heart about all of the happenings in our lives. Katie talks about her new gravel biking career and her difficult decision to withdraw from Western States 100 miler this year. Leah shares about how she listens to her body as she is recovering from FURTHER and honoring the time that it takes from such a monumental effort. Hilary talks about her 200 mile race later this summer and how she is balancing training with all of her creative work. Rachel shares about the season that she is in with parenting, an upcoming move to Salt Lake City, and training for Western States.

What we talked about:

1:55- Katie’s decision to not race at Western States

9:15- Katie’s biking adventures

14:55- How Leah is feeling coming off of FURTHER

22:15- Hilary’s upcoming 200 mile race

30:35- Some hallucinations on the trails

32:10- Caffeine in trail races

35:00- Training and racing the same event as your partner

37:35- Rachel’s upcoming move and Western States

Show notes:

Follow The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠

Subscribe to The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠

Thank you to Osprey for supporting The Trail Network Podcast. Check them out at ⁠⁠⁠⁠Osprey.com⁠⁠⁠

The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

On this episode, we dive into Rachel's win at the Gorge 30k last weekend. We talk about how she fueled her day and some of the ways that we adapt our nutrition needs depending on the race length and conditions. We also talked about some of our go-to pre-race meals. We shared some of our thoughts on paying attention to your body and your perceived effort while training and the importance of running your own race no matter what.

We hope that you'll take away some useful tips for your own races!

What we talked about:

2:30- Rachel’s big weekend

8:30- How media has changed in the sport

11:25- Fueling strategies

30:50- Rachel’s takeaways from the Gorge Waterfalls 30k

33:15- Overdoing it in races

35:15- Pre-race meals

38:40- Caffeine before races

42:55- Things we’re loving

Show notes:

Follow The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠

Subscribe to The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠

Thank you to Osprey for supporting The Trail Network Podcast. Check them out at ⁠⁠⁠⁠Osprey.com⁠⁠⁠

The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

Today, Katie Asmuth is joined by Maddie Giegold. Maddie is a chief emergency medicine resident at UCSF and also a trail runner. She is passionate about wilderness medicine and event medicine. She loves trail running, gravel cycling, jumping into cold bodies of water, sleeping outdoors, flowers, and double-fisting ice cream. She is also a junior ranger at 19 national parks and wilderness areas.

In this episode, we talk about experiences with medical direction in races such as The Mammoth Trail Fest and the Lululemon FURTHER event. She'll also be at Western States and Broken Arrow this year. We talk about the challenges of medical response in remote areas where resources are limited. We also talk about her passion for merging her life as a trail runner with emergency medicine.

What we talked about:

2:20- Where school and life have taken her

3:40- Finding the love for trail running and goals looking ahead at her trail running career

8:00- Combining her love for racing and medicine

15:35- Limitations to medical practice during ultra races

21:25- Her role at FURTHER

26:50- Making the decision to allow a runner to keep going versus pulling them from the race

31:20- How FURTHER could change the landscape of medical directing during ultra races

Show notes:

Follow The Trail Network on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

Subscribe to The Trail Network on ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠

Thank you to Osprey for supporting The Trail Network Podcast. Check them out at ⁠⁠⁠Osprey.com⁠⁠

The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

Welcome back to the Trail Network! Today, Leah sits down in person with professional runners and partners Adam Peterman and Erin Clark from Montana. Erin is a Nike sponsored athlete and one of the hardest racers that we know. She most recently had a win at the 2023 Lake Sonoma 50 miler and a 7th place finish at the 2022 CCC. Adam is a Hoka sponsored athlete with an undefeated track record in ultramarathons including wins at Western States and the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships. 

On this episode, we dive into the past year of their mutual ups and downs, their relationship as two professional athletes, and what has been giving them confidence these days. We also talk about Adam’s return to racing, most recently his battle with Devin Pancake at the Buffalo Run 50k this past weekend in Salt Lake City.

We hope that you enjoy this conversation!

What we talked about

3:10- Adam’s comeback to racing

7:25- Erin’s past year of training and injuries

10:35- Where Erin finds confidence amidst injury

13:00- Handling the highs and lows in running and their relationship

17:10- How they influence each other’s training

20:40- Finding confidence from their training

24:15- Comparing yourself to your previous self when returning from injury

27:00- Proudest moments while supporting each other

Show notes:

Follow The Trail Network on ⁠Instagram⁠

Subscribe to The Trail Network on ⁠YouTube⁠

Thank you to Osprey for supporting The Trail Network Podcast. Check them out at ⁠⁠Osprey.com⁠The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

In this episode, Rachel is joined by Francesco Puppi and Matt Daniels. These two just finished first and second at the Chuckanut 50k, both breaking the previous course record set by Max King. In this episode, they talk about their head to head battle at the Chuckanut 50k and what transpired over the race. They talk about what it was like to be so close to a competitor for such a long time and the special connection that they developed by racing one another.

What we talked about:

1:25- Catching up with Matt and Francesco and how they are feeling coming off of the race

3:40- What’s next for Matt, racing at the Gorge Waterfalls 100k

4:50- What’s next for Francesco, racing Lake Sonoma

6:20- Their rivalry origin story

9:15: Francesco’s race plan for Chuckanut 50k

11:45- Matt’s race plan for Chukanut 50k

14:20- The breakdown of their head to head

21:50- The value of having each other to compete against

24:00- The connection in trail running

28:20- Their reflections on their experience going head to head

Show notes:

Follow The Trail Network on Instagram

Subscribe to The Trail Network on YouTube

Thank you to Osprey for supporting The Trail Network Podcast. Check them out at ⁠Osprey.com
The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠

Photo Credit: Somer Kreisman

In this episode, Hilary is joined by Leah Yingling and her husband and partner in crime Mike McMonagle as they dive into her recent experience racing at Further, Lulelemon’s ultra running event. They take a closer look at what goes into both running and crewing a six day race, dissect a few mid-race breakdowns, and both Mike and Leah share with us some top tips that they’ve learned from this crazy experience that we can all apply to our own races!

What we talked about:

1:25- Leah running FURTHER

8:55- Mike’s role in FURTHER

12:25- Leah’s race strategy

2:20- Mike’s experience being on Leah’s crew

28:55- Lowest moments throughout the race

34:55- Leah’s mentality during the race

43:45- Lessons learned from the FURTHER event

Show notes:

Learn more about the FURTHER event here

Follow The Trail Network on Instagram

Subscribe to The Trail Network on YouTube

Thank you to Osprey for supporting The Trail Network Podcast. Check them out at ⁠Osprey.com⁠

The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠

The Trail Network is hosted by ultra runners Leah Yingling, Rachel Drake, Katie Asmuth, and Hilary Yang. Together, they bring the untold stories of magical moments amongst trail runners to life. These stories of runners on and off the trail capture the essence and heart of trail running, and the power of friendship and connection. You’ll find inspiration, community, and a reminder of why we run.

In this episode, you’ll hear the why behind the Trail Network Podcast and a backstory of all of the hosts running journeys!

What we talked about:

1:15- The why behind The Trail Network Podcast

5:20- Katie’s story with trail running

7:25- Hilary’s story with trail running

10:00- Rachel’s story with trail running

12:40- Leah’s story with trail running

19:15- Rachel’s recent success at Black Canyon and balancing training with her life

23:10- Katie’s injury battles

29:40- Leah’s race at Lululemon’s FURTHER

Show notes:

Follow The Trail Network on Instagram

Subscribe to The Trail Network on YouTube

Thank you to Osprey for supporting The Trail Network Podcast. Check them out at ⁠Osprey.com⁠
The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠

Hilary Yang sits down with Katie Asmuth for a Tarawera recap from New Zealand, where Katie lined up chasing a Western States Golden Ticket on her 40th birthday. They talk travel logistics, a race day that turned into a wet, muddy survival mission, and how the technical terrain changed pacing, fueling, and decision-making. Katie also shares what she learned, how she’s processing the outcome, and what she’s excited about next as she shifts focus toward UTMB!

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠. Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

Leah Yingling and Hilary Yang are fresh off a whirlwind weekend at Black Canyon, where they were on the mic for the Mountain Outpost livestream and got a front row seat to the start of the North American Golden Ticket chase. They zoom out on what made this weekend feel like a turning point, from the depth of the women’s field and how close the front end is getting across genders, to how much racing, fueling, and confidence have evolved in the sport. They also touch on the ultra world colliding all at once with Tarawera and Barkley running in the same weekend, plus a few unfiltered behind the scenes moments from the broadcast booth. The episode wraps with road runners entering the trail scene, what they noticed from Molly Seidel and Des Linden’s very different days, and a quick check in on training, life balance, and why Hilary is happily off Strava right now.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandy Boy Productions.

A big shout out to our sponsor Precision Fuel and Hydration. Go to pfandh.com to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

This week, Cristina Regalado joins the Trail Network Podcast. Cristina is a recent recipient of a Gu-supported entry into WSER and a fixture in the Salt Lake City trail scene, tirelessly working for increased inclusion on the trails with Women of the Wasatch and Wasatch Trails Collective.

On this episode, Cristina shares what lining up at the Western States Endurance Run this summer means to her, not just as an athlete, but as someone deeply committed to expanding access to trails and ultrarunning for underrepresented communities.

She reflects on the power of community, the importance of representation in trail running, and how showing up as her full self has shaped both her running and her advocacy.

Cristina also shares a few organizations she loves that are doing meaningful work to make trail running more inclusive. One standout is The Active Joe, a Texas-based group taking intentional steps toward access and equity, including offering race manuals in Spanish, partnering with the Trail Mix Fund to help athletes from marginalized backgrounds access races, and actively celebrating women while working toward equal start lines.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandy Boy Productions.

A big shout out to our sponsor Precision Fuel and Hydration. Go to pfandh.com to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

Katie and Hilary catch up at the start of February as the year suddenly feels like it’s moving fast. The conversation touches on creative momentum, making space for meaningful work, and the mix of excitement and nerves that comes with big plans falling into place. They reflect on racing as both a personal challenge and a mirror for life, especially in seasons where energy, priorities, and perspective are shifting.

The episode centers on Katie heading to Tarawera 100K on her 40th birthday, sharing an honest look at preparation, mindset, and what it means to show up fully without knowing how the day will unfold. From trusting training to staying flexible and present, it’s a reminder that sometimes the goal is simply to be in it and let the experience shape what comes next.

A big shout out to our sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠. Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

Tabor Hemming is a professional trail runner for adidas TERREX and Precision Fuel & Hydration who lives and trains in a remote mountain town in Colorado on her family’s multi-generation cattle ranch. Raised on the ranch and rooted in endurance sport from a young age, Tabor brings a rare mix of grit, curiosity, and independence to her career. She and her husband, fellow professional runner Eli Hemming, train, race, coach athletes, and create content together through their podcast Hemming and Hawing and their YouTube work, offering an honest look at life as elite athletes outside the traditional running hubs.

In this episode, Tabor joins Katie to talk about her path from collegiate running to professional trail racing, why patience and maturity matter when choosing race distances, and how living far from the spotlight has shaped her approach to training and competition. They dive into her build toward Black Canyon, lessons from injury and misdiagnosis, the mental energy required in ultrarunning, racing as a social and developmental tool, and why saying no to the next “big thing” can be just as powerful as saying yes. The conversation also touches on FKTs, long-term athlete development, partnership in marriage and sport, and what it really means to build a sustainable life in trail running.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠. Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

This week is a trio catch-up with Hilary Yang, Leah Yingling, and Rachel Drake on what life looks like right now in a season that feels maxed out. Rachel shares the reality of balancing anesthesia training, motherhood, and breastfeeding on the job, plus how being a mom has shaped the way she shows up for patients and families.

They also dig into training when time and energy are limited, including run commuting, postpartum patience, and why consistency matters more than big mileage. Hilary reflects on burnout after a packed year and the decision to step back from RDing The Mammoth so she can focus on the creative work that truly lights her up. The episode closes with a bigger conversation about defining success in trail running beyond visibility, choosing races and brands that align with your values, and keeping the sport rooted in joy and community.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠. Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

Emily Cameron joins the show to talk about building a career as a photographer and filmmaker in trail and endurance sports, from her roots in Lancaster, Pennsylvania to life in Athens, Georgia. Emily shares her background as a 2016 Olympic Trials qualifier in swimming and how that shaped her relationship with time, training, and burnout, plus the pivot into triathlon and eventually storytelling. The conversation dives into how she broke into the creative world through COVID-era portrait projects, the reality of cold emailing for work, what she has learned about trust and access when documenting athletes, and how Trailfolk came to life with Tara Dower and a crew that became part of the story. Emily also talks about creative problem solving at events and setting boundaries with social media to protect her own creative vision.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠. Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

Ryan Montgomery joins Katie Asmuth for an in person conversation from Mammoth Lakes during a training week as he returns from ankle surgery. Ryan shares his long arc in the sport from early hundred milers and adventure driven running to a breakout competitive chapter that included a Golden Ticket and a top 10 at Western States. They talk about what it looks like to address a long term injury, how he is approaching 2026 with a renewed pull toward big adventure and FKTs, and why curiosity and relationships have shaped his path. Ryan also opens up about identity, community, and the mission behind OutTrails, plus how business school and a growing interest in representing athletes fits into the bigger picture of building a sustainable life in and beyond sport.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠. Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

Hilary Yang and Katie Asmuth ring in 2026 with a candid reflection on a year of big swings, scary projects, and imperfect comebacks. Hilary shares what it was really like to train for and finish Hardrock while directing the Mammoth 200 and creating her first major film, and Katie talks about racing her way back from injury, ending the year with a win at Javelina, and heading into Tarawera with a quieter but deeper confidence. Together they unpack failure, burnout, aging in sport, and why connection, collaboration, and doing the scary thing anyway will be their guiding themes for the new year.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠. Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

After a chaotic lead-up that included travel stress, illness, childcare logistics, and a race that almost didn’t happen, Rachel and Tyler Green made it to Madeira… and ended up delivering two standout performances on one of the most technical courses in the sport.

In this episode, Hilary sits down with both Rachel and Tyler to unpack what it actually looked like behind the scenes. This isn’t just a race recap. It’s a conversation about showing up when nothing feels perfect, trusting your process when confidence is low, and navigating high-level racing while balancing careers, parenting, and real life.

Tyler shares what it meant to finally feel like himself again at the front of an international field, and how he managed the inevitable highs and lows of a long race day. Rachel opens up about racing postpartum, letting go of expectations, and finding joy and perspective in a season that looks very different than before.

There’s also a deeper look at partnership, support systems, and what it really takes to make racing at this level possible. From family logistics to mid-race problem solving, this episode pulls back the curtain on what goes into these performances beyond the results.

It’s a reminder that very few races start from a place of perfect preparation, and that sometimes the most meaningful outcomes come from the messiest lead-ups.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠. Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

In this episode, Katie Asmuth and Leah Yingling reflect on a full year of The Trail Network Podcast and a year that reshaped the trail running landscape. They look back on standout moments from the sport and the show, from pregnancies and comebacks to breakthrough performances, surprise podiums, and the rise of longer distances like 200-mile races. The conversation touches on storytelling in trail running, why live coverage and long-form narratives are changing how fans connect to athletes, and how rankings, sponsorships, and community support influence the modern professional runner. They also explore accessibility in trail running, from sub-ultra distances to grassroots races, and share thoughts on training races, recovery, fueling, and setting the tone for the year ahead. It’s a reflective, wide-angle look at where the sport has been and where it’s headed.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠. Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

In this episode, Katie and Leah sit down for a two-host chat that blends life updates with what is happening across the trail and ultra world. They touch on postpartum running, baseline fitness, and how to fit training into real life, including vacations and busy family seasons. The conversation moves through Trail Runner of the Year and Ultra Runner of the Year, why rankings and UTMB index actually matter for pros, and how road races like CIM are shaping trail performances and golden ticket prep. This is a fun one, enjoy!

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠. Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

All four hosts land in one virtual room for the first time in a while, and the episode feels like exactly what the trail community loves about this show: honest life updates, the chaos and joy of parenting and training, and the juggling act of big dreams alongside real-world constraints. The conversation moves through work, family, film projects, postpartum shifts, inspiration, and the long game of returning to form. There's laughter, some exhaustion, a lot of heart, and a shared sense that running evolves with every season of life. The episode captures the feeling of being in transition — rebuilding, rethinking goals, planning races, and remembering why this sport continues to anchor each of them. It’s a warm, open catch-up that invites listeners to take a deep breath, embrace their own season, and keep moving forward in whatever way is possible right now.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠. Go to ⁠pfandh.com⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

This catch up episode leans into the messy, real side of being runners, creatives, and parents while the race season quiets down. Hilary, Katie, and Leah talk openly about what it looks like when running has to take a back seat to big projects, work, and family, how social media and Strava can shape or strain our relationship with the sport, and why it sometimes feels better to keep parts of life offline. They get into gut and health struggles, postpartum recovery, travel with a baby, planning around lotteries and pregnancy deferrals, and why timing big goals to the right season of life matters. It is an honest look at building a life that makes room for both big dreams and real constraints, and finding ways to stay connected to running even when the mileage is low.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠. Go to ⁠pfandh.com⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

Olympic bronze medalist Molly Seidel joins Hilary Yang and Katie Asmuth for a candid, thoughtful conversation about rebuilding her relationship with running and stepping into the trail world with intention. She opens up about the long recovery from a broken patella, the emotional work that reshaped her approach to training, and how her anthropology background influences the way she sees sport and culture. Molly shares why trail running feels like the right place for her joy, creativity, and durability right now, how Austin and Flagstaff each support a different side of her life, and what it has meant to find a healthier balance outside of racing. She also reflects on dropping out of the New York City Marathon to protect her progress, learning the logistics of ultras, and future trail goals with equal parts humility and ambition. It’s a grounded, refreshingly human look at an athlete redefining success and finding the confidence to build a career on her own terms.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor Precision Fuel & Hydration. Go to pfandh.com to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

Hilary returns to the podcast after a whirlwind stretch directing the Mammoth events and traveling through Hong Kong and China to film her new documentary project. She’s joined by filmmaker Carrie Highman, her co-director on the upcoming film, for a conversation centered on storytelling, women’s experiences, and the impact of bringing outdoor narratives to life with intention. Carrie reflects on her career and the themes that have shaped her work, from Free to Run, which highlights the barriers faced by women in Afghanistan, to her newest film Off Course, premiering at the Banff Film Festival and exploring the intersection of infertility, identity, and ambition. Together, Hilary and Carrie discuss what it means to create work that inspires women, how filmmaking connects to the spirit of trail running, and why telling honest stories still matters.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor Precision Fuel & Hydration. Go to pfandh.com to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

Fresh off Javelina, Leah and Katie set the scene with the weekend’s energy, from a record-setting women’s race to Katie’s own 100K win. The conversation moves quickly into what’s actually working in modern ultras: smarter cooling, sharper crew transitions, and staying present when plans go sideways. Addie Bracy joins with a clear, grounded look at how deliberate heat prep and simple mantras carried her to a golden ticket, and why decoupling identity from outcomes can revive a career. She also shares what’s ahead at SageStone Adventure Lodge, the OutRun community, and her coaching lens heading toward Western States.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

Katie Asmuth and Leah Yingling take the mic for a co-host deep dive, opening with a look at Freetrail’s new Big Alta 100K and how it could shape spring racing before reflecting on Kodiak’s UTMB North America Majors and the fatigue of a long season. The conversation moves into racing strategies for inaugural courses, the balance of data and intuition, and what they’ve learned from pacing, crewing, and commentary. Listeners also get a closer look at both athletes—their paths into trail running, perspectives on sponsorship, favorite gear, and the goals driving their next chapters. It’s a relaxed, personal, and insightful episode that captures the friendship, honesty, and love of the sport that define The Trail Network Podcast.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

Hilary, Katie, and Leah kick back for a post–Mammoth 200 catch-up. Hilary debriefs year one of directing and alpine 200 (weather reroutes, why mandatory gear mattered, and the real talk on volunteer power and community buy-in). Katie shares end-of-month racing plans at Javelina 100K (plus a little live-stream cameo energy), and Leah opens up about her gradual, low-pressure return to running and the joys/realities of new-mom life. It’s a cozy, candid, all-corners-of-trail running episode.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

On this episode of The Trail Network Podcast, host Katie Asmuth sits down with Rachel Entrekin — winner and course record holder of the inaugural Mammoth 200 (46:50). Rachel is fast becoming the modern face of 200-mile racing, blending big-miles durability with smart, minimalist systems. Katie and Rachel dig into how she approached Mammoth (from training blocks to aid-station efficiency), what she learned racing alongside elite competition, and the simple rule that anchors her mindset: don’t quit on the uphill. You’ll also hear practical takeaways on fueling with real food, foot care fixes, when (and when not) to sleep, and how she’s navigating sponsorship while choosing races that light her up.

Media Linked:

Rachel’s blog:

How to Run a Multi-Day Race – Another dumb running blog

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

This week’s catch-up episode leans into where the sport is right now and how quickly everything seems to be evolving.

With Rachel off racing in Madeira, Katie, Leah, and Hilary sit down to unpack a stretch of racing that felt bigger than usual. From the ACG takeover at Gorge to the growing presence of brands, media, and storytelling in trail, there’s a clear shift happening in how races are experienced, marketed, and consumed. It’s not just about who wins anymore. It’s about how the sport shows up.

The conversation naturally moves into what that means for athletes. The pressure that comes with bigger platforms, the reality of bad race days, and the challenge of staying grounded when expectations keep rising. There’s an honest look at how pros navigate performance swings, sponsorship dynamics, and the mental side of showing up again after things don’t go to plan.

They also touch on the increasing overlap between road and trail, with more athletes moving between disciplines and finding breakthroughs by doing things differently. It’s less about choosing one lane and more about building a broader version of what it means to be an endurance athlete.

As always, it circles back to real life. Training interruptions, family logistics, travel fatigue, and finding small ways to keep showing up anyway. It’s a reminder that even at the highest level, there’s no perfect formula. Just people figuring it out as they go.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠. Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

In this episode of The Trail Network Podcast, hosts Leah Yingling and Rachel Drake share their excitement for the World Mountain & Trail Running Championships taking place in the Pyrenees in Spain. Drawing from their own experiences representing Team USA, they talk about what makes Worlds so special—its blend of culture, competition, and camaraderie.

They highlight the standout athletes to watch across the vertical, classic, short, and long trail races.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

All four Trail Network hosts — Katie Asmuth, Leah Yingling, Hilary Yang, and Rachel Drake — open the episode with life updates and a debrief on a wild-weather Run Rabbit Run weekend, digging into what went wrong for many athletes and how U.S. races handle (or don’t handle) mandatory gear. They trade practical strategies for racing in bad conditions, from smarter crewing and real waterproof layers to training in the weather you fear. Then Rachel sits down with Megan Roche — double doctor, mom of two, coach, and the 2025 Run Rabbit Run 50-mile champion — to talk about her “growth and grace” mantra, rebuilding after pericarditis and two pregnancies, lower-mileage success (about half her pre-baby volume), cross-training, and why patience and pelvic-floor PT matter. Megan shares how she balances competitive fire with motherhood, the joy of pacing, and what’s next as she eyes longer distances. The crew closes with quick takeaways: prepare early, layer smart, size up shoes, and let mindset lead the day.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

On this episode of the Trail Network Podcast, hosts Leah Yingling and Rachel Drake welcome Carolina Rubio-MacWright, a New York City–based lawyer, immigrant, mother, and advocate for marginalized communities. Carolina shares her remarkable story of balancing advocacy, family, and running, culminating in her recent finish at UTMB in just over 45 hours.

The conversation explores her work supporting immigrant communities, her perspective on making trail running more inclusive, and the powerful ways individuals can create meaningful change. Carolina also reflects on what it meant to “close the loop” at UTMB and how her personal journey has shaped her impact both on and off the trails.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

The Trail Network crew — Rachel Drake, Leah Yingling, Hilary Yang, and Katie Asmuth — reunites to unpack standout moments from UTMB week and to celebrate Rachel’s newest arrival, Chloe Gloria Green. They discuss women’s race coverage and why CCC stole the show, the chaos and beauty of mountain weather management, and how surprising results opened the door for breakout performances. The conversation shifts to a thoughtful debate about finishing versus DNF from an athlete’s point of view, A, B, and C goals that evolve mid-race, and why context matters. Rachel shares a powerful, joyful birth story, Leah gives a peek into newborn life as an ultra-fan, and the team previews upcoming guests and projects.

Topics covered

• UTMB takeaways: women’s coverage strides, CCC drama, Ruth’s Triple Crown, weather as the main character

• Breakout results and shoutouts across CCC and UTMB

• Finish vs DNF: athlete autonomy, changing goals, and seasons of sport

• A, B, and C goals explained and how they shift mid-race

• Rachel’s birth story and meeting Chloe

• Newborn life updates, community support, and kid-friendly adventures

• Gear notes: soft carriers and being outdoors with babies

In this episode of the Trail Network Podcast, Katie Asmuth, Rachel Drake, and Hilary Yang sit down for a “UTMB 101” conversation. They break down what UTMB is, how it started, and why it has become such a defining event in the trail running world. From its grassroots beginnings in 2003 to today’s week-long festival of eight races across three countries, UTMB represents both the beauty and challenges of the sport. The hosts share personal stories, memories from racing and crewing, and the unique atmosphere in Chamonix that brings together thousands of runners, brands, and fans from around the globe. They also discuss the growth of UTMB under Ironman, the push for equality and inclusion in the sport, and the balance between grassroots values and professionalization. If you’ve ever wondered what makes UTMB the “Super Bowl” of trail running, this episode is your guide.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

ER doctor and trail runner Anne Flower joins host Katie Asmuth on The Trail Network to share the story of her remarkable victory at the 2025 Leadville 100. In her debut 100-miler, Anne broke the 31-year-old course record previously held by ultrarunning legend Ann Trason, finishing in 17:58. She reflects on her path from growing up playing soccer and exploring the outdoors, to discovering running during medical school as a tool for balance, to qualifying for the Olympic Marathon Trials, and eventually stepping into trail ultras. Anne and Katie dive into how she balances a demanding career in emergency medicine with training, her fueling and mindset at Leadville, and how approaching the race with a beginner’s perspective became her biggest strength. Anne also shares about her nonprofit work with Mountains to Mountains and what she hopes for in the next chapter of her running journey.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

In this episode of the Trail Network Podcast Hilary Yang, Leah Yingling and Katie Asmuth catch up on Katie's Leadville experience!

Thank you Osprey for supporting this episode of the Trail Network Podcast!

In this episode of the Trail Network Podcast, host Katie Asmuth sits down with elite ultrarunner Kaytlyn Gerbin for an in-depth conversation about her remarkable comeback to racing. From a podium at UTMB and top finishes at Western States to an unexpected hip dysplasia diagnosis, major surgery, pregnancy, and more than two years away from competition, Kaytlyn’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and redefining success.

She opens up about stepping away from her career in bioengineering, the mental and physical challenges of recovery, and the acceptance that came with an uncertain athletic future. Katie and Kaytlyn discuss the slow and intentional build back to running, the role hiking played in her rehab, and how she balances motherhood, competitive racing, and ambitious mountain projects. Kaytlyn reflects on her recent win and fourth-place overall finish at Cascade Crest 100—her first ultra back—despite pre-race challenges and a week-earlier mountaineering expedition.

The conversation also dives into her Emmy-winning North Cascades High Route project, the process of pitching and executing major adventures for sponsors, and her passion for balancing competitive goals with exploratory expeditions. Kaytlyn offers thoughtful advice for athletes navigating comebacks, emphasizing patience, flexibility, and focusing on what you can do rather than what you can’t.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

In this episode of the Trail Network Podcast, Hilary Yang sits down with one of the most exciting names in ultrarunning right now, Rachel Entrekin. With a 16-race win streak and a course record at both Cocodona 250 and High Lonesome, Rachel has quickly risen through the ranks — but it's her grounded perspective, hilarious stories, and genuine love for the sport that make this conversation shine.

Rachel opens up about her conservative upbringing, how running helped her rewrite her own narrative, and why community and joy are at the center of her racing decisions. She and Hilary talk about the power of representation in sport, the mental game behind 200s, and the underrated beauty of staying curious and not taking yourself too seriously.

From ditch naps and carrying a literal rock in a race, to strategic course breakdowns and professional crossroads, this is a refreshing, candid conversation about what it means to keep showing up — for the love of it.

Listen on Spotify and follow @trailnetworkpod on Instagram for guest updates, behind-the-scenes, and more inspiring stories from the trail.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

On this special episode of the Trail Network podcast, hosts Hilary Yang and Katie Asmuth sit down with Leah Yingling to hear her birth story. Leah shares how her life shifted unexpectedly when she had to be induced, opening up about the challenges, emotions, and joys of becoming a new mom. This heartfelt conversation highlights the power of vulnerability, community, and support in navigating life’s biggest transitions.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

Robyn Lesh is one of the most interesting athletes in trail running right now because of how quickly she’s figuring things out and the results that are coming with it.

A former competitive sailor and MIT-trained engineer, Robyn came into trail running without a traditional background in the sport. In just a few years, she’s gone from learning how to pace her first ultras to racing at the front of some of the most competitive fields in the world.

This conversation digs into that progression. What it actually feels like to step up in distance. How you learn to push deeper when you don’t know where the limit is. And what happens when you stop racing cautiously and start racing to compete.

There’s also a lot here beyond results. Robyn shares how her background in sailing shaped her mindset, why she initially stepped away from being an athlete, and what brought her back. The conversation touches on sponsorship, learning in real time, and the moments in races where things start to go sideways — and you have to decide whether to back off or keep going.

It’s an honest look at what it means to still be learning while showing up at a high level, and why that might actually be the advantage.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠. Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

In this episode of the Trail Network Podcast, Hilary Yang and Katie Asmuth reconnect for a conversation about what comes after the finish line—specifically Hilary’s recovery from the Hardrock 100 and Katie’s win at the Tahoe Trail 50K. Hilary shares the mental and physical roller coaster of post-race recovery, from breathing freely again to jogging in Canada with a renewed sense of freedom. She and Katie reflect on the importance of giving space for rest, honoring the magnitude of what the body has just accomplished, and resisting the urge to jump to the next goal too quickly.

Katie opens up about what it meant to feel her racing fire return at Tahoe after a long injury comeback. She describes the mental breakthrough of trusting her body again and feeling genuinely competitive, even after a frustrating mid-race navigation issue. With Leadville on the horizon, Katie dives into what excites her most: the opportunity to problem-solve at high altitude and test herself in a whole new way.

The conversation widens to the broader themes of identity, resilience, and how trail running becomes a mirror for who we are and how we grow. They explore how transformation can happen through hard things—whether that’s a hundred-mile race, an injury comeback, or simply getting out the door when life is pulling in a million directions. They honor the unique strength of trail running’s varied bodies and stories, and answer listener questions about body image, race gear, and how to find your first 100-miler.

This episode is both grounding and uplifting—reminding us that there’s power in the process, beauty in the imperfection, and growth in simply showing up.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

This week on the Trail Network Podcast, Hilary Yang and Katie Asmuth sit down for a full race recap of Hilary’s experience at the 2025 Hardrock 100. Katie was on the ground at Hardrock crewing and pacing, and in this episode she interviews Hilary about every stage of her race — from the difficult lead-up to the finish line in Silverton.

Hilary breaks down the most challenging moments of the race, including:

• Battling altitude, cold temperatures, and wildfire smoke within the first 10 miles

• Struggling through severe nausea, multiple vomiting episodes, and long stretches without crew support

• Mentally navigating the lowest points on course while running almost 12 hours without pacers

• A dramatic late-race comeback after mile 75 with the help of an incredible crew and pacers

• Racing the clock to avoid cutoffs, summiting iconic Grant Swamp Pass at sunset, and passing over a dozen runners in the final miles

• A terrifying fall four miles from the finish and pushing through hallucinations to kiss the rock

Hilary and Katie also discuss key takeaways, including:

• Lessons learned about fueling at altitude and adapting when things go wrong

• The crucial role of her crew and pacing team in turning the race around

• Hilary’s thoughts on going back to Hardrock in the future

• A sneak peek into the upcoming documentary Billy Yang is producing about Hilary’s Hardrock journey

This is a raw and honest episode about what it takes to finish one of the hardest mountain ultras in the world. Hilary reflects on the months and years of preparation that led to this moment, how she stayed mentally engaged despite major setbacks, and why finishing Hardrock was about much more than a finish time.

Listen in for a true behind-the-scenes look at Hardrock 100 through the eyes of a first-time finisher.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

Katie Asmuth hosts this lively and thoughtful episode from Leadville, Colorado, alongside Riley Brady and Ellie Pell. Fresh off a 28-mile run above 10,000 feet, the trio dives into a wide-ranging conversation that blends humor, hot takes, and real questions about the future of the sport.

Topics covered include:

• Leadville ambitions – Katie reveals her goal to race Leadville and shares what makes qualifying so unique.

• The GPS watch dilemma – Why do navigation tools still miss the mark on trail accuracy?

• Western States reflections – Riley shares insights after a tough day at States and what it was like running through a packed, high-energy escarpment.

• Should top contenders get different treatment? – A deep dive into whether elites deserve streamlined aid station support, and how the sport might better serve athletes at every level.

• Standardizing rules in ultras – From pacer regulations to course-cutting consequences, the group debates how much should be uniform across races.

• Gear gripes and wish lists – The trio wants lighter gels, faster hydration packs, better laces, and athlete-only zones for ravenous post-run athletes.

• Sponsorship honesty – They call out the all-too-common trend of athletes endorsing gear they don’t actually use.

• Coach talk – From Corinne Malcolm to Tyler Green and Rick Floyd, they shout out great coaches and emphasize the importance of honest communication and coach-athlete fit.

• Favorite sports moments – From crossword gold stars to Angel Reese’s iconic NCAA gesture, they share moments that inspired or cracked them up.

This episode blends trail talk with bigger conversations about competition, fairness, and how the sport is evolving. Whether you're racing at the front, pacing a friend, or dreaming of your first ultra, there's something here for every trail runner.

Listen in for: laughs, spicy takes, and a few ideas the trail world still isn’t talking about.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

In this post-Western States 100 episode of the Trail Network Podcast, Leah Yingling, Hilary Yang, and Rachel Drake unpack the whirlwind of race week—both on the ground and from afar. They reflect on what made this year’s race feel so dynamic, unpredictable, and inspiring.

They dive into everything from media chaos, crewing logistics, and coverage parity to the breakout performances from Abby Hall and Caleb Olson. Hilary shares behind-the-scenes insight from her documentary and social media work and Leah talks about the surprising spark that made her want to return to the race more than ever.

Other highlights include:

• The explosion of media at Western States and how it’s reshaping race day

• Why this year’s women’s race coverage felt different—in a good way

• Stories of resilience, including the Golden Hour Runner and race-day improvisations

• Pregnant adventuring, postpartum plans, and what’s next for Hilary as she heads to Hardrock

Whether you were on the escarpment or watching from home, this episode captures the electric energy of Western States and why 2024 may have been the most memorable year yet.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

In this special in-person episode recorded live from Olympic Valley, co-hosts Katie Asmuth, Leah Yingling, and Hilary Yang dive deep into the 2025 Western States 100 women’s field. With race day tomorrow, the trio goes full trail nerd mode on everything from top contenders and international shake-ups to training blocks, Strava sleuthing, and personal insights.

They break down race favorites, explore exciting dark horses, and spotlight powerful storylines. They also talk age group potential, debut 100-milers, and who might break the masters record this year.

You'll also hear behind-the-scenes training tidbits, pacer prep, what makes this year’s field so uniquely deep and international, and even some spicy pre-race speculation: Who might top the escarpment first? Who’s secretly training in heat suits? And who’s a quiet killer ready to make a big move?

It's a celebration of fierce women, racing guts, and the wild beauty of Western States 100. Let’s go.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

In this episode of The Trail Network, Leah Yingling, Katie Asmuth, and Rachel Drake tackle listener-submitted questions — from the most essential pieces of gear to the do’s and don’ts of early trail running. They reflect on their own first races, share stories from their original local trail crews, and discuss the learning curve that shaped their ultra journeys.

The trio dives into topics like:

• The gear they wish they had when they started (spoiler: good socks and GPX watches go a long way)

• Why finding your local trail community might be the best investment of all

• Navigating the overwhelming flood of information in today's media-heavy running scene

• Training structure for long ultras — whether double runs or extended sessions work best

• The beauty of learning through mistakes (hello, 5-hour “easy” runs with one snack)

Plus, they explore the value of coaching, celebrate female-led races pushing for parity in the sport, and close with a few words of wisdom for anyone just starting out.

A perfect listen for new runners, seasoned trail vets, and anyone chasing joy out on the dirt.

Teaser for next time: How would the crew race Western States if they were toeing the line this year? Tune in next week for that deep dive.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

In this episode of The Trail Network Podcast, hosts Leah, Hilary, and Katie reconnect for a heartfelt roundtable about where running fits in different seasons of life—physically, emotionally, and logistically.

Hilary kicks things off with a recap of her recent Malibu Canyon 50 miler, which she ran just days after a root canal. She shares what it was like to race while experimenting with new nutrition strategies from her work with Meredith Terranova, and how dialing in her fueling gave her the confidence boost she needed ahead of Hardrock.

Katie follows with a recap of the Silver State 50K, a sweltering grassroots race in Reno that surprised her with community, connection, and a fierce competitor who shattered the course record. She reflects on how racing has changed now that her kids are older—and why she's committed to showing up, even when her fitness isn’t at its peak.

Leah shares what it’s been like to not be in training mode right now and how that distance from competition has reshaped her perspective. The trio opens up about the complexities of returning from injury, growing families, shifting priorities, and the challenge of chasing performance while honoring longevity in the sport.

They also dig into:
– Nutrition lessons from both Hilary’s personal breakthroughs and Leah’s involvement in Lululemon’s Further research
– What makes “training races” valuable (and fun!)
– The unique pressure of trying to hit PRs as life evolves
– The deep emotional tug of being a parent and an athlete
– Upcoming Western States roles, Broken Arrow excitement, and what’s next for Here for the Women’s Race

This conversation is an honest, thoughtful reflection on staying in love with the sport, even when the shape of that love changes.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

In this week’s episode of the Trail Network podcast, hosts Leah Yingling and Rachel Drake reconnect for a deep dive into recent adventures, personal milestones, and reflections on life, pregnancy, and trail running.

Leah kicks off the episode with a recap of her recent trip to Northern Wales, where she crewed for her husband, Mike, at Ultra Trail Snowdonia—a notoriously rugged and stunningly beautiful race often dubbed “Hardrock at sea level.” Leah shares her experience navigating the course logistics, supporting Mike through brutally technical terrain, and balancing the demands of international travel while six months pregnant. The pair also reflect on the underrepresentation of women in ultra-distance events like Snowdonia and the broader implications of participation barriers in these challenging races.

Rachel then recounts her rim-to-rim crossing of the Grand Canyon, completed just days prior to recording, as part of a supported project with Osprey and Precision Fuel & Hydration. She offers a raw and thoughtful look at preparing for a major effort while pregnant, including fueling changes, unexpected physical challenges, and the importance of adaptability and community support. The two also reflect on their evolving pregnancies, comparing their experiences, training adaptations, and what it means to find joy in movement during such a transformational time.

The episode wraps with a meaningful discussion around postpartum expectations, race deferral policies, and the nuanced realities of running through pregnancy and fertility journeys. They spotlight Stephanie Case’s inspiring victory at the 100K at Snowdonia—six months postpartum and breastfeeding mid-race—as well as broader issues around representation, sponsorship policies, and UTMB ranking implications for pregnant athletes.

With honesty, humor, and heart, Leah and Rachel celebrate the many ways women show up in the trail world—on the start line, crewing, parenting, recovering, and dreaming big.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.