Explore every episode of the podcast Trails, Tales, and Fails - An Ultra Running Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morgan Glazier: UTMB Puglia and the Rise of Ultra Running's Next Generation | 01 nov. 2026 | 00:53:49 | |
This week, Max and Sarah are joined by one of the exciting young talents making his mark on the ultra-running scene: Morgan Glazier. Despite his relatively young age, Morgan is already building an impressive racing CV. From a strong performance at the South Downs Way 100 to winning the KosciMiler at Ultra-Trail in Australia, and most recently finishing sixth at Puglia by UTMB in Italy, he's quickly establishing himself as a name to watch. We chat about Morgan's journey into the sport, what it's like lining up against some of the world's best ultra runners, and the work that goes into developing as a competitive endurance athlete. We get into: - Morgan's journey into ultra running and his progression through the sport. - Winning the KosciMiler in Australia and the experience of racing internationally. - His impressive sixth-place finish at Puglia by UTMB. - Training, weekly mileage, strength work and staying injury-free. - The balance between natural ability, hard work and consistency. - His ambitions, future races and just how far he believes he can go. An interesting insight into the journey of a young athlete making big strides in the world of ultra running. Trails, Tales and Fails – real conversations about ultra running, the people behind the performances, and everything in between. Get involved with Trails, Tales & Fails: Have a training question, a ridiculous ultra-running story or someone you'd like us to recognise? Email us: trailstalesfails@gmail.com 🎧 Subscribe, follow and leave us a review if you enjoy the show. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code 15TTF (one time code) Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. | |||
| The Spine Recce, Backyard Ultra Worlds & General Ultra Chat | 27 oct. 2026 | 00:33:11 | |
Max and Sarah are back for another catch-up! This week, Sarah talks us through her recent Spine recce, we chat about the Big’s Backyard Ultra World Championships, and share what we’ve both been up to lately. From big ultra adventures to the usual running chat, join us for another episode of Trails, Tales and Fails! 🏃♀️🏃♂️ Like, follow and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts. We're shaking things up! Alongside our usual chats with runners doing ridiculous things on the trails, we're introducing new features: 🏃 Coaching Corner — Your training, racing and fuelling questions answered. 😂 Tales from the Trail — Your funniest, strangest and most disastrous running stories. 🙌 TTF Shout-Out — Celebrating runners doing brilliant things, big or small. We want to hear from you, so send your questions, stories and shout-outs to trailstalesfails@gmail.com. You could even feature in a future episode! We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code 15TTF (one time code) Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. | |||
| TOR330: Inside One of the World's Toughest Ultras | Michael Harrington | 12 oct. 2026 | 01:18:48 | |
What does it really take to complete the TOR330? On this episode of Trails, Tales & Fails, we're joined by Mike Harrington from George & Falcon Trail Runners to talk about taking on the TOR330 — a brutal 330km ultra through the Italian Alps, packed with huge climbs, technical mountain trails, sleep deprivation and some seriously tough decisions. Mike takes us inside the race, sharing the highs, the lows, the moments when things got properly difficult, and what it takes to keep moving when you're running on empty. We also talk about his experiences at the Winter Downs 100 and UTS the realities of racing over extreme distances, lessons learned the hard way, and what it takes to tackle some of the biggest challenges in ultra running. Plus, we're introducing some new features to TTF, including Coaching Corner, Tales from the Trail and TTF Shout-Outs. We want your questions, stories and running disasters! 🎧 In this episode:
Also with Truth or Lie and our quickfire questions. We're shaking things up! Alongside our usual chats with runners doing ridiculous things on the trails, we're introducing new features: 🏃 Coaching Corner — Your training, racing and fuelling questions answered. 😂 Tales from the Trail — Your funniest, strangest and most disastrous running stories. 🙌 TTF Shout-Out — Celebrating runners doing brilliant things, big or small. We want to hear from you, so send your questions, stories and shout-outs to trailstalesfails@gmail.com. You could even feature in a future episode! We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code 15TTF (one time code) Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. | |||
| Damian Hall: FKTs, 200 milers, longevity and motivation | 28 sept. 2026 | 01:19:18 | |
This week, Max, Rob and Sarah are joined by one of the biggest names in UK ultra running — Damian Hall. Damian has finished fifth at UTMB, won the Spine Race, set multiple FKTs and taken on some seriously ambitious challenges. But there’s much more to his running than racing. He’s also a coach, author, journalist, climate campaigner and co-founder of The Green Runners — a group working to make running and the wider sport more environmentally sustainable. We chat about Damian’s recent running adventures, and with winter ultras such as the Spine and Winter Downs approaching, we also get practical: how do you train for 200 miles without destroying yourself? How much running do you actually need to do? What role does strength training play? How do you prepare mentally for several days on your feet? And how do you stay motivated when it’s dark, cold and absolutely miserable outside? We also chat about longevity and Damian’s latest book, Run Forever, which explores how we can continue to get the most out of running as we get older. Plus, there’s the usual Trails, Tales, and Fails chaos with Celebrity Pacer, Truth or Lie and the Quickfire Round. If you enjoy the episode, please give us a rating, follow the podcast and share it with your running friends. It really helps us grow the show. Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. | |||
| Leroy Valentine: Bigfoot 200 | 10 sept. 2026 | 01:07:17 | |
Rob and Sarah sit down with UK ultra runner Leroy Valentine after his incredible 88 hours and 7 minutes at Bigfoot 200 in Washington State. Bigfoot 200 is a 200 mile point-to-point trail race through the Cascade Mountains, featuring 44,082 feet of elevation gain, 45,563 feet of descent and a 107-hour cutoff. It's the kind of ultra where running ability is only part of the equation — pacing, nutrition, strength, sleep, feet, mindset and the ability to adapt all become crucial when you're moving through the mountains for days. Leroy takes us behind the scenes of his journey to the start line, from how he got into ultra running and his experience applying for Bigfoot, through to the realities of actually taking on 200 miles. We talk about how you train for a 200-mile ultra, the importance of strength training, nutrition and fuelling, sleep deprivation, dealing with problems during a race, and the mental battle of continuing when you've been moving for days. And if you've seen Leroy's legendary frying-pan lunches, we couldn't let him get away without talking about those either. Plus, we've got our usual Truth or Lie and Quickfire rounds. If you're into ultra running, trail running, 100-mile and 200-mile races, endurance challenges or simply hearing what happens when someone decides that running for nearly four days is a good idea, this one's for you. Coaching enquiries Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. | |||
| Sarah Page: UTMB 2026 | 02 sept. 2026 | 01:06:12 | |
Fresh back from Chamonix, this week we're bringing you a UTMB special. Sarah joins us to relive her journey around Mont Blanc after finishing UTMB 2026 in 28 hours and 14 minutes, placing 222nd overall, 37th female and joint-second British athlete. We break the race down from start to finish, covering the build-up, race week nerves, the dramatic two-hour weather delay, the electric atmosphere on the course, the highs and lows of a 174km adventure, and the difficult moments around Grand Col Ferret that tested both body and mind. We also discuss the fascinating British women's race, how Sarah ended up running the final part of the race alongside Charlotte Fisher, and what it was like crossing the finish line in Chamonix after more than 28 hours on the trails. Plus, we answer listener questions, including the toughest part of the race, the biggest surprises, and where UTMB ranks among Sarah's running achievements. If you've ever wondered what it's really like to take on one of the world's most iconic ultramarathons, this is the episode for you. As always, if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a rating, share the episode with a friend, and follow Trials, Trails and Fails wherever you get your podcasts. Coaching enquiries Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. | |||
| The Best of Truth or Lie! Susie Chan, Fi Pascall, Holly Stables & More | 21 août 2026 | 00:43:11 | |
It’s time for the BEST of Truth or Lie! 😂 Over the past 18 months, guests have thrown some seriously questionable statements at us — and now we're bringing together some of our funniest, strangest and most memorable Truth or Lies in one episode. Featuring Debbie Martin-Consani, Fi Pascall, Holly Stables, Susie Chan, Ben O’Connell and Ben Potts, this is a chance to revisit some of the best stories from the podcast and see if you can work out what’s actually true. Expect ridiculous claims, wild ultra-running stories, plenty of debate and a fair bit of cheating… 👀 How many can you get right? Coaching enquiries Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. | |||
| Mission IN-possible: 100 Ultras in 100 Days | David “Jacko” Jackson | 16 août 2026 | 01:03:40 | |
What does it actually take to run 50km every single day for 100 days? In this episode, we chat to David “Jacko” Jackson, former professional rugby player, breath coach and the man behind the incredible Mission IN-possible challenge. Jacko is attempting to complete 100 ultramarathons in 100 consecutive days, covering a minimum of 50km every day, while aiming to raise an incredible £1 million for brain injury charities Headway UK and Head for Change. When we spoke to David “Jacko” Jackson on Friday 14th August 2026, he had just completed Day 78 of 100 of his incredible Mission IN-possible challenge. In 2013, Jacko's professional rugby career was ended by a traumatic brain injury. His recovery was uncertain, and running and breathwork became a huge part of rebuilding his life. Mission IN-possible is his way of turning that experience into something positive — raising awareness, raising money and showing that what seems impossible can become IN-possible. And Jacko isn't doing it alone. The community support has been incredible, with runners and walkers joining him along the way. His route uses loops, meaning anyone can get involved — whether you're an experienced ultra runner or simply want to run or walk a few kilometres alongside him. Behind the scenes, his wife Catherine has also been absolutely integral to the challenge — running with him, driving, helping with food and fuelling and supporting him through the physical and emotional demands of doing this day after day. We chat to Jacko about the reality of 78 consecutive days of running, his brain injury and recovery, the toughest moments so far, the incredible community around Mission IN-possible, Catherine's role behind the scenes, the £1m fundraising target and what it takes to keep getting up and doing it again. A massive thank you to Jacko for giving us his time right in the middle of the challenge. At Day 78, this wasn't a conversation looking back from the finish line — he was still right in the thick of it. Want to get involved? You don't need to run a marathon. Join Jacko for a loop, bring your friends and run your own little IN-possible. 🧠 Headway UK – https://www.headway.org.uk/ Jacko's book, Breathe Smarter, Run Stronger, is available here, as well as Amazon. Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. | |||
| Lakeland 100 2026 and UTMB Recce Chat | 03 août 2026 | 00:50:50 | |
This week, we chat about Rob's recent Lakeland 100 finish. From pacing and nutrition to the mental battles that every ultra runner faces. We chat about Sarah's recent UTMB recce, sharing her first impressions of the course, key sections to look out for, and what runners can expect if they're heading to the Alps this summer. Whether you're training for your first ultra, taking on Lakeland 2027, or dreaming of UTMB, there's plenty of chat, race stories and the usual laughs along the way. Don't forget to follow the podcast, leave a rating, and share the episode with a friend—it really helps us reach more runners If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a rating, follow the show, and share the episode with your friends. Every share helps us reach more runners, inspire new adventures, and grow the trail and ultra running community. Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. | |||
| Mark Wilson: England Rugby World Cup Finalist Turned Ultra Runner | 22 juil. 2026 | 01:05:15 | |
What happens when you've reached the pinnacle of your sport and it's all over? In this episode we sit down with Mark Wilson—former England international, 2019 Rugby World Cup finalist and Newcastle Falcons legend—to talk about life after professional rugby and why he's found a new challenge in ultra running. Since retiring from rugby, Mark has thrown himself into some of the UK's toughest endurance events, including the Arc of Attrition 100 and the iconic Paddy Buckley Round. We discuss the similarities and differences between elite rugby and ultra running, the mindset required to succeed, coping with retirement from professional sport, and why pushing yourself never really stops. Whether you're an ultra runner, rugby fan, or simply fascinated by high performance and resilience, this conversation is packed with honest insights, inspiring stories and plenty of laughs. In this episode we cover: Why he fell in love with ultra running after retirement The mindset of elite athletes Identity and purpose after professional sport Tackling the Arc of Attrition 100 and the Paddy Buckley Round Advice for anyone starting their own endurance journey This episode is proudly sponsored by Harrier Trail Running. To celebrate, we're giving away Harrier's Ultra Trail Bundle—including a race vest, Z-poles, hydration bottles, safety essentials and more. To enter: Full giveaway details can be found on our Instagram page. 🎁 WIN a Harrier Ultra Trail Bundle worth over £260! If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a rating, follow the show, and share the episode with your friends. Every share helps us reach more runners, inspire new adventures, and grow the trail and ultra running community. Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. | |||
| Western States 100: Inside America's Most Iconic Ultra with Lee Dunstall & Rebecca Parker | 13 juil. 2026 | 01:13:54 | |
What does it really take to run the legendary Western States 100? This week on Trails, Tales & Fails, we're joined by Lee Dunstall, who began his ultra running journey in 2019 before earning his place on the start line of the world's most famous 100-mile race. Alongside him is his partner Rebecca Parker, an ultra runner who crewed and supported Lee throughout his Western States adventure. Together we dive into everything you need to know about the Western States Endurance Run—from qualifying and navigating the lottery system to race-day strategy, crewing, pacing, the atmosphere on the trails, and what makes this race so special. We also chat about how both Lee and Rebecca got into ultra running, the highs and lows of the sport, and, as always, finish with our fan-favourite segments: Steady Pacer, Guilty Pleasures, and the Quickfire Round. Whether you're dreaming of running Western States 100, love ultra marathons, or simply enjoy hearing incredible trail running stories, this episode is packed with insight, laughs, and inspiration. Topics covered:
If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a rating, follow the show, and share the episode with your friends. Every share helps us reach more runners, inspire new adventures, and grow the trail and ultra running community. Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. | |||
| Helen Newman | Winning the Lake District Sky Race, Sky Running & Ultra Marathon Training | 06 juil. 2026 | 01:18:17 | |
What does it take to become a seriously strong female ultra runners—and how do you train for mountain races when you live in one of the flattest parts of England? In this episode, we sit down with Helen Newman to explore her incredible journey through ultra running, trail running and sky racing. Helen is building an impressive ultra running CV, including: 🥈 2nd – Winter on the Downs 50 Mile 🏅 6th Female – South Downs Way 100 (19:50)🏆 1st Female & 8th Overall – Lake District Sky Race (65km / 4,500m elevation) We dive into her recent victory at the Lake District Sky Race, discussing what makes sky running so different from traditional ultra marathons, how she prepares for steep climbs and technical descents without living near mountains, and the lessons she's learned from both successful races and the ones that didn't go to plan. We also discuss:
As always, we have our regular icebreakers, Truth or Lie, and a quickfire round. Whether you're training for your first 50K, preparing for a 100-mile ultra, or simply love trail running, this episode is packed with practical advice, race insights and plenty of laughs along the way. If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a rating, follow the show, and share the episode with your friends. Every share helps us reach more runners, inspire new adventures, and grow the trail and ultra running community. Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| James Yeardley's Montane Summer Spine Race | 275 Miles on the Pennine Way | 23 juin 2026 | 01:15:00 | |
Fresh from completing the Montane Summer Spine Race, today's guest joins us to unpack an incredible 275-mile journey along the Pennine Way. Finishing in around 150 hours, he battled challenging underfoot conditions, sleep deprivation, changing weather, and the mental and physical demands that come with one of Britain's toughest ultramarathons. Along the way, he shared conversations with some legendary names, including Nicky Spinks and Andy Glaze, while learning plenty about himself in the process. Having previously raced mainly over 50 to 100-mile distances, this was by far his longest event to date and a huge leap into the unknown. With another major challenge just four and a half weeks away, we discuss what worked well, what he'd change next time, how he managed the lows, and some of the unexpected and humorous moments that happened during nearly a week on the trail. If you're curious about the realities of racing beyond 200 miles, the mindset required to keep moving when everything hurts, and the lessons learned from one of the UK's most iconic endurance events, this is an episode you won't want to miss. If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a rating, follow the show, and share the episode with your friends. Every share helps us reach more runners, inspire new adventures, and grow the trail and ultra running community. Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| Simon Withers: South Downs Way 100 2026 | 17 juin 2026 | 01:19:54 | |
In this episode we sit down with South Coast ultra runner Simon Withers, one of the rising stars of the UK ultra running scene. Fresh from a gritty 7th place finish at the South Downs Way 100, Simon reflects on racing one of the UK's most competitive 100-mile ultras, sharing his pacing strategy, nutrition, mindset, and what it takes to perform over such a long day on the trails. We also discuss his outstanding recent results, including 3rd place at the Arc of Attrition 2025 and 2nd place at the Arc of Attrition 2026, and how his performances have continued to improve year after year. Along the way, Simon shares lessons learned from years of ultra running, the mistakes that have shaped him as an athlete, what keeps him motivated to keep returning to the start line, and some of the highs, lows and failures that every ultra runner can relate to. Plus, we put Simon through our regular features: icebreakers, Truth or Lie, and the quickfire round. Whether you're training for your first ultra marathon, tackling a 100 miler, or simply love trail running, this episode is packed with practical advice and honest insights from one of the South's toughest endurance athletes. Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| Sarah's UTMB Mozart 100 Debrief 5th place | 25 mai 2026 | 00:39:35 | |
Sarah finished 5th female at Mozart 100 by UTMB — a 120km mountain ultra in the Austrian Alps with long climbs, technical descents and a strong international field. In this episode we break down the whole experience:
Recorded 36 hours after the finish, while everything was still fresh. Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| Ultra Running, Addiction & Escapism | The World’s Poshest Marathon | 11 mai 2026 | 01:05:43 | |
This week on Trails, Tales & Fails, Max and Rob dive into a more honest conversation around ultra running, routines, streaks, escapism, addiction, and why endurance sport can sometimes become far more than “just running.” Why do runners become obsessed with structure? This isn’t a clinical conversation and we’re definitely not pretending to be experts — it’s simply an open discussion based on lived experience, ultra running culture, alcohol, mental health, validation, and the role running can sometimes play in helping people switch off, process stress, or escape life for a while. Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| Karla Borland: Thames Path 100🏅 | 05 mai 2026 | 01:04:00 | |
In this ep, Max, Sarah and Rob are joined by Karla Borland — a runner whose results over the last 12 months have been steadily climbing, putting her firmly on the trajectory to becoming one of the standout performers in UK ultra running. In that time, Karla has put together some seriously impressive performances:
Thames Path is a unique kind of brutal — flat, fast, and relentless. There’s nowhere to hide. It becomes less about surviving the terrain, and more about holding pace, managing efficiency, and staying locked in for the long haul. In this episode, we get into:
And of course, we’ve got our usual mix of celeb pacer, truth-or-lie, and a quickfire round to finish. Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| Anxiety In Running - You're Not Alone | 29 avr. 2026 | 01:28:44 | |
Anxiety in running is far more common than most people admit — and when we asked you about it on Instagram, the response was big. In this episode, it’s just us — no guest — having a proper, honest conversation about the different types of anxiety runners experience. From imposter syndrome and fear of injury, to getting lost mid-race, toilet disasters and Strava anxiety. We break it all down — what these anxieties actually look like, why they show up, and how we deal with them both as runners and from a coaching perspective. Some of it’s serious, some of it’s surprisingly funny, but all of it is real when you’re in the moment. We also touch briefly on the recent UTMB Index changes and what they might (or might not) mean for everyday runners. If you’ve ever stood on a start line questioning yourself, overthought a long run, or worried about something going wrong… this one will probably resonate. If it does, send it to someone who might need to hear it. Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| From Family Life to the Sahara: Taking on Marathon des Sables Together | 20 avr. 2026 | 01:32:36 | |
What happens when you combine young kids, an international move, and one of the toughest endurance races on the planet? In this episode, Max and Sarah were joined by Josie Kaufmann and Michael Canil — a husband and wife duo who recently relocated from Australia to rural France and took on the legendary Marathon des Sables. Often called the “toughest footrace on Earth,” MDS is a self-sufficient, multi-stage ultramarathon across the Sahara Desert — testing not just physical endurance, but planning, resilience, and mindset. But this episode goes far beyond the race itself. We dive into:
Josie is coached by Max, which adds an extra layer to the conversation as we unpack how training translated into the reality of the Sahara. With Michael coming from a strong Ironman background and Josie stepping into her first major endurance event, this is a story of two very different journeys meeting at the same start line. Expect honest reflections, a few laughs, and plenty of insight into resilience, pacing, and mindset when things get seriously tough. Plus, we’ve got our usual mix of icebreakers, truth-or-lie, and a quickfire round to finish. Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| Kirsty Taylor: Sea to Sea 300km | 13 avr. 2026 | 01:07:03 | |
When a race disappears… do you still show up? In this episode, we sit down with ultra runner Kirsty Taylor to unpack one of the most unique and unpredictable race experiences you’ll hear this year. Kirsty recently took on the Sea to Sea — a brutal 300km challenge — but this wasn’t quite the experience she signed up for. Just weeks before the start, Ourea Events ceased trading, throwing plans into chaos and leaving runners facing a completely different reality. What followed was a stripped-back event delivered under Centurion, where Kirsty took on the route fully self-supported, with no crew, no aid station or drop bag, and limited infrastructure. We dive into what that actually looked like on the ground:
We also explore Kirsty’s journey into ultra running — from 100k and 100 mile races to stepping up into the unknown of 300km — and what she’s learned about resilience, preparation, and decision-making when you’re deep in it and on your own. As always, expect a mix of: If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to go self-supported — or how you respond when a race doesn’t go to plan — this one’s for you. Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by: Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20 Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| Louise Fraser: Aid Stations At 2AM | 31 mars 2026 | 01:08:00 | |
This episode is about the people you don’t always see… but who make everything possible. We’re joined by Louise Fraser — a long-time volunteer and familiar face in the Centurion Running community. If you’ve ever run a Centurion race, chances are she’s been there at an aid station — handing you a cup of Coke, filling flasks, offering a bit of calm, and delivering exactly the words you needed at the right moment. We dive into:
Plus our usual mix of icebreakers, truth-or-lie, and a volunteer-themed quickfire round. This one’s about community, perspective, and the moments that keep people moving when it matters most. Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| Noor van der Veen: Barkley Marathons | 26 févr. 2026 | 01:16:46 | |
This week we’re joined by Dutch ultra runner Noor Van der Veen, who has taken on some of the most demanding races on the planet — including Tor des Géants, Arc of Attrition 100 ), UTMB, and a full FKT of the Pyrenees. Most recently, she stepped up to the start line of the legendary Barkley Marathons. We dive into her background, her mindset, and what it really takes to tackle extreme endurance challenges. Plus — our usual icebreakers and a quickfire round to finish. This episode is supported by Runr — a UK-based running brand built by runners, for runners. Runr started in 2016 with a simple idea: helping runners recognise runners. That quiet nod on a cold morning. That shared understanding at mile 18. They create lightweight, sweat-wicking technical hats designed to stay secure mile after mile — and their race number magnets mean no more safety pins, no holes in your favourite race tee, and no interference with timing chips. 🎉 We’re also running a giveaway over on Instagram — you can win a Runr technical hat plus a set of race magnets. Head to our Instagram and follow the instructions to enter. Love running? Wear Runr. Support the show via Patroen and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| Ben Potts: The Full Winter Spine Race | 12 févr. 2026 | 01:18:18 | |
This week on Trails, Tales & Fails, we’re joined by Ben Potts — ultra runner, friend, and fresh off an incredible 12th-place finish at the Full Spine. The Full Spine is one of the toughest endurance races on the planet: 268 miles/431km, 10,700m+ of elevation, winter conditions, sleep deprivation, and relentless forward motion. Ben takes us inside the race — how he prepared, how he managed fatigue over multiple days, the mental battles that matter most, and what events like the Spine and Dragon’s Back teach you about yourself when you’re pushed to the edge. We talk training, decision-making under extreme fatigue, lessons learned from multi-day ultras, and what draws runners back to these brutal challenges again and again. As always, we finish with our usual icebreakers, truth-or-lie, and a quickfire round. Follow the podcast, leave a review if you enjoy it, and join the Trails, Tales & Fails Strava club — link in the show notes. We’re giving away a RealMeal Endurance Pack on Instagram — running until 22nd February. Head to our Instagram page and check out the giveaway post to enter. Support the show via Patroen and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. For coaching enquiries. Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| Ultra Tip Tuesday #8: The Chimp Paradox & Ultra Running: Your Mind’s Secret Race | 10 févr. 2026 | 00:04:39 | |
In ultra running, your brain isn’t just one voice — it’s two. 🐒 The Chimp: Emotional, impulsive, scared of pain and discomfort. It wants to stop when things get tough. The trick? ✅ Acknowledge when your Chimp screams “Quit!” Ultras aren’t just physical — they’re a mental battle. What’s your go-to way to calm your Chimp mid-run? Drop it below! 👇 Support the show via Patroen and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. For coaching enquiries. Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| David Johnson: TrailSkin | 06 févr. 2026 | 01:16:12 | |
In this episode, Max and Rob are joined by Dave from TrailSkin — ultra runner, founder, and someone who knows firsthand what the trails can throw at you. Dave has completed races including the Arc of Attrition and UTS 100k, and this year returned to the Arc 100, where brutal conditions brought by Storm Ingrid forced many runners, including Dave, to make the difficult decision to stop at Land’s End. We talk honestly about foot care, skin care, and why they matter in ultras and the story behind TrailSkin and how it grew from real trail-running problems This episode is supported by TrailSkin, a UK-based, all-natural performance skincare brand trusted by runners at races including the Spine, UTMB, Dragons Back, Cape Wrath Ultra, and more. Giveaway: TrailSkin are offering listeners the chance to win an Ultra Bundle worth £47 — head to our Instagram for entry details end (15/2/26) Support the show via Patroen and buy us a coffee. We’re proud to be supported by Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. Let’s get into it. | |||
| Ben O'Connell: Arc of Attrition 2026 | 30 janv. 2026 | 01:37:18 | |
This week, we’re joined by Ben O'Connell, who many of you will already know from the coaching world and from YouTube, where he shares practical, grounded advice for runners of all abilities. Ben has taken on some iconic ultras — from Centurion 50‑milers to the South Downs Way 100, and the Swiss Alpes 100 — but this weekend, he stepped up to one of Britain’s most notorious winter races: the Arc of Attrition 100. And this year’s Arc wasn’t just tough — it was savage. Storm Ingrid brought 60–65mph gusts, torrential rain, flooding, and conditions that turned the Cornish coast path into a test of pure survival. Ben battled through the storm, into the night, and all the way to Land’s End before making the difficult decision to stop at mile 55. A DNF is never easy, but with over 60% of runners not making it to the finish, this is a story worth telling. In this episode, we dive into the weekend, the weather, the decision, the lessons, and the Arc experience as a whole. We talk about what the race taught him, how he approaches big efforts as both an athlete and a coach, and what comes next. Plus, we’ve got our usual mix of icebreakers, truth‑or‑lie, and a quickfire round to wrap things up. We’re proud to be supported by Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. Let’s get into it. | |||
| Montane Spine Challenger South 2026 Debrief: Sarah Page | 13 janv. 2026 | 01:16:52 | |
This week on Trails, Tales & Fails, we’re joined by co-host Sarah Page, fresh off an incredible performance at the Montane Winter Spine Challenger South 2026. In her first-ever Spine, Sarah claimed 1st female, 3rd overall, and ran the fastest women’s time ever recorded on the Challenger South, stopping the clock at 29:03 — nearly 40 minutes quicker than the previous best. All of this came in truly brutal conditions. Storm Goretti dumped snow across the Pennine Way early on, followed by driving wind, rain, and ice through Saturday night and into Sunday. Classic Spine weather. We break the race down in detail:
Sarah reflects on the highs, lows, lessons learned, and what this race revealed about her as an athlete — and answers the big question: An honest, insightful deep dive into one of the standout performances of the winter ultra season. We’re proud to be supported by Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| 2025 End of Year Quiz & Reflections + Spine & Arc Prep Learnings | 30 déc. 2025 | 01:12:50 | |
Welcome back to Trails, Tales, and Fails — the podcast where we celebrate the highs, the lows, and everything in between on the ultra-running journey. Today’s episode is a little different. It’s just the three of us — Max, Rob, and Sarah — catching up, talking training, and looking back on 2025 with a fun (and slightly chaotic) quiz based on our previous guests. Expect confident guesses, very shaky answers, and a surprising amount of disorder. We also dive into where everyone’s at right now:
We talk honestly about training through winter — the highs, the setbacks, the kit that’s actually working, and the mindset shifts needed when motivation dips and conditions get tough. As always, we share lessons and tips that might help you navigate your own winter running. We’re proud to be supported by Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| Ultra Tip Tuesday #7: The Traffic Light Decision System | 30 déc. 2025 | 00:04:08 | |
Ultras aren’t usually lost because you’re not fit enough — they’re lost because of one bad decision made when you’re tired, cold, or emotional. In this week’s Ultra Tip Tuesday, we introduce the Traffic Light Decision System: a simple framework to help you make smarter calls during long runs and race day. Learn how to:
This episode is all about staying calm, avoiding unnecessary stops, and knowing when stopping is the smartest move you can make. Train smart. Race smart. Finish strong. For coaching enquiries, DM me on Instagram or click here. We’re proud to be supported by Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| Ultra Tip Tuesday #6: Train on Terrain That Matches Your Goal Route | 23 déc. 2025 | 00:03:57 | |
This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails, we dig into one of the smartest — and most overlooked — ways to build race‑day confidence: training on terrain that actually mirrors your goal route. Rocky, muddy, flat, hilly, or wildly technical, every surface teaches your body something different. In this Ultra Tip Tuesday episode, we break down how to sharpen your weaknesses early in the training cycle, build durability without pressure, and dial in true race‑day specificity as your event approaches. You’ll learn how to balance technical skill‑building with injury prevention, get creative when you don’t have access to the perfect trails, and discover why even one long run on race‑like terrain can transform your confidence. If you want fewer surprises on race day — physically and mentally — this episode gives you the blueprint for showing up ready, not rattled. For coaching enquiries, DM me on Instagram or click here. We’re proud to be supported by Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| Trish Patterson: Winter Dragon's Back FKT | 22 déc. 2025 | 01:16:23 | |
Trish Patterson joins us fresh off her incredible Winter Dragon’s Back FKT — a huge achievement made even more impressive by the rocky road leading up to it. Weeks before the attempt, Trish sprained her ankle. Then came missed training weeks, lingering fatigue, and a build‑up that was anything but smooth. In this episode, we dive into Trish’s journey: how she handled setbacks, what the Winter Dragon demanded physically and mentally, the conditions underfoot, pacing decisions, crew strategy, and the mindset required to keep pushing when the plan falls apart. We also explore recovery, long‑term health, and what it takes to stay motivated through big efforts. We’re proud to be supported by Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10. Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. | |||
| Jade Barrett: Centurion Double Slam & Winter Downs 200 | 15 déc. 2025 | 01:14:06 | |
Jade Barrett has taken endurance to extraordinary heights. In 2025 she completed the Centurion Double Slam on her way to running every Centurion event in a single year. She also raced the legendary Arc 100 in January. Most recently, Jade conquered the Winter Downs 200, finishing in an astonishing 76 hours and 58 minutes. This year’s Winter Downs was one for the history books, with Caspian James setting an epic course record of 43:38. Against that backdrop, Jade’s own finish was a masterclass in resilience, pacing, and determination. In this episode of Trails, Tales, and Fails, we dive into Jade’s race experience: the conditions and the mental and physical strategies that carried her through nearly 77 hours of running. We also explore how she balances recovery, crew support, and the sheer mental toughness required for this scale of mileage. While this time of year is exciting for many, we know Christmas can be difficult for some. If you’re finding December tough or feeling a bit lonely, you’re welcome to reach out on Instagram for a friendly chat. If this episode inspires you, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies — it really helps the show grow. Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. We are proud to be partnered with Protein Rebel. Use code TTF15 at Protein Rebel for your 15% discount. | |||
| Lizzie Gatherer: Backyard Ultras & Copthorne 100 | 09 déc. 2025 | 01:10:54 | |
From signing up to her first ultra with just three days’ notice, to conquering the legendary Dragon’s Back and setting multiple Fastest Known Times, Lizzie — better known as Ultra Mad Lizzie — has built a reputation for resilience, grit, and determination. In this episode of Trails, Tales, and Fails, Lizzie shares her journey through the unique world of backyard ultras — a format that tests mental strength as much as physical endurance — and her recent victory at the notorious Copthorne 100, a race infamous for its brutally low finish rate. Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements. Lizzie is a proud ambassador for Protein Rebel and sponsored by Snack’d — fuelling epic endurance feats with sustainable energy. If this episode inspires you, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies — it really helps the show grow. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. 💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our Patreon — every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails. Use code TTF15 at Protein Rebel for your 15% discount. | |||
| Alex Bance: Recreating the journey of Stonehenge by running 300 Miles for Julia's House | 16 nov. 2025 | 01:27:27 | |
In this episode, Max and Rob chat to fellow Protein Rebel ambassador, Alex Bance, who didn’t just run an ultra — he ran 300 miles, self-navigated, unrecced, and with minimal support, all to raise money and awareness for a children’s hospice close to his heart, Julia's House. We unpack the soaring highs to the crushing lows, kit disasters, hallucinations, moments of kindness, and the mental resilience needed to keep moving when everything says stop. Expect raw honesty, wild stories, training insights, and lessons for anyone looking to push beyond their perceived limits. If this episode inspires you, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies — it really helps the show grow. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. 💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our Patreon — every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails. Use code TTF15 at Protein Rebel for your 15% discount. | |||
| Charlotte Fisher: Mallorca by UTMB 3rd place | 10 nov. 2025 | 01:12:49 | |
Charlotte Fisher is having a breakout year — and we’re here for it. From her early win at North Downs Way 100 to podiums at UTS, Lakeland, and Mallorca by UTMB, she’s proving she’s one of the fiercest rising stars on the European ultra scene. In this episode, Charlotte opens up about the highs and lows of racing 140KM through technical terrain in Mallorca, how she’s evolved as an athlete in 2025, and what keeps her grounded when the trails get tough. We dive into training shifts, recovery rituals, race-day mindset, and yes — her guilty pleasure post-race treat. Whether you’re chasing your own ultra goals or just love hearing how the best do it, this one’s packed with insight, grit, and inspiration. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. 💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our Patreon — every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails. Use code TTF15 at Protein Rebel for your 15% discount. | |||
| Charlie Steward: Moab 240 aged just 20 | 03 nov. 2025 | 01:01:41 | |
This week we sit down with Charlie Steward — fresh off what many are calling the worst conditions in Moab 240 history. Think rain, snow, high winds, falling trees, and actual mountain lions. Charlie says the race broke him in every single way — physically, mentally, emotionally — and yes, he really did cut open his own feet mid-race to relieve pressure. We talk Ironman roots, hallucinations, sleep strategy (or lack of), and what it takes to survive 238 miles of chaos through Utah’s desert and mountains. It’s raw, intense, and a masterclass in suffering with purpose. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. 💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our Patreon — every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails. Use code TTF15 at Protein Rebel for your 15% discount. | |||
| Maverick Jurassic Coast 50K: PBs, cowpats, & kit fails | 19 oct. 2025 | 00:51:38 | |
This week on Trails, Tails and Fails, Rob and Sarah relive the Jurassic Coast Maverick 50K — a race full of coastal climbs, wrong turns, and one spectacular kit fail that nearly ended things before the start line. Sarah took the win and Rob had a great run to take 10th. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. 💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our Patreon — every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails. Use code TTF15 at Protein Rebel for your 15% discount. | |||
| Ellen Cheetham: UTMB Nice 3rd Place | 08 oct. 2025 | 01:13:41 | |
Ellen Cheetham went from London roads to French mountain trails — and landed on the podium at UTMB Nice 100 miler. In this episode, we unpack her transition to ultra running, the move to France, and what it takes to race 165 km from the Alps to the Mediterranean. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. 💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our Patreon — every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails. Use code TTF15 at Protein Rebel for your 15% discount. | |||
| Ultra Tip Tuesday #5: The Importance of Pacing Ultras | 30 sept. 2025 | 00:05:04 | |
This week, we’re talking pacing — the skill that separates finishers from faders. Whether you’re running a 50K or a 100-miler, smart pacing protects your body from bonking, inflammation, and breakdown. We dive into the science behind restraint:
Plus: the talk test, segment thinking, and why patience is power. 💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our Patreon — every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails. Use code TTF15 at Protein Rebel for your 15% discount. | |||
| Victoria Henderson: Tor des Géants | 29 sept. 2025 | 01:13:17 | |
This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails, Max, Sarah Rob are joined by Victoria Henderson, fresh off her heroic finish at the Tor des Géants — a 330km monster through the Italian Alps with over 24,000m of elevation gain. That’s 145 hours of sleep deprivation, technical climbs, and weather that can swing from blazing heat to alpine snow. We break down the race step by step, score it using our Race Toughness Index, and dive into training, and finish-line emotions. Plus: celebrity pacers, truth or lie, ultra guilty pleasures, and a quickfire round. Victoria’s ultra resume is stacked: CCC 2021, TDS, 5th at Winter Downs 200, and 17th at Arc 100 earlier this year. But TDG? That’s a whole new level. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. 💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our Patreon — every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails. Use code TTF15 at Protein Rebel for your 15% discount. | |||
| The Kerry Way Ultra with Emma Harris and Seb Briggs | 18 sept. 2025 | 01:25:03 | |
This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails, Max and Sarah are joined by Seb Briggs and Emma Harris, fresh off their epic 37-hour, 57-minute finish of the Kerry Way Ultra. That’s 200km of Irish wilderness, bogs, climbs, and unpredictable weather. We break down the race step by step, score it using our Race Toughness Index, and dive into training, fails, and finish-line emotions. Plus: celebrity pacers, truth or lie, ultra guilty pleasures, and a quickfire round that reveals more than you'd expect. Seb and Emma are part of the George & Falcon Runners, a friendly, inclusive trail running crew based in Hampshire. They meet regularly for social runs, training sessions, and big race adventures. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. 💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our Patreon — every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails. Use code TTF15 at Protein Rebel for your 15% discount. | |||
| Ultra Tip Tuesday #4: Sleep Is Training — Don’t Skip It | 16 sept. 2025 | 00:04:30 | |
This week on Ultra Tip Tuesday, Max dives into one of the most overlooked performance boosters in ultra running: sleep. From muscle repair and glycogen replenishment to mental resilience and injury prevention, sleep is your secret weapon. Learn how to optimise your sleep routine, avoid common pitfalls like caffeine and screen time, and treat rest like the training block it truly is. Your legs will thank you. 💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our Patreon — every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails. Use code TTF15 at Protein Rebel for your 15% discount. | |||
| Ultra Tip Tuesday #3: Calf Strength - Don’t Skip the Small Stuff | 09 sept. 2025 | 00:04:08 | |
Welcome back to Trails, Tales, and Fails! This week’s Ultra Tip Tuesday is all about the unsung heroes of your stride — your calves. Whether you're climbing, descending, or cruising through long miles, your calves are working overtime. We break down the difference between the gastrocnemius and the soleus, why most runners neglect one of them, and how to train both for better performance, injury prevention, and smoother movement. From straight-leg to bent-knee calf raises, we’ve got the tips to build bulletproof lower legs. 🎙️ Want to support the pod? Check out our Patreon in the show notes.👟 Join our Facebook community to share your strength wins and fails — we’ve all had both. | |||
| Ultra Tip Tuesday #2: Fuelling Early & Often | 02 sept. 2025 | 00:04:21 | |
In this week’s Ultra Tip Tuesday, I'm diving into one of the most overlooked keys to endurance success: fuelling early and often. Whether you’re training for your first ultra or your fiftieth, timing your nutrition is just as important as what you eat. I’ll break down why waiting until you’re hungry is too late, how to keep your energy steady with small, frequent fuel hits, and how to train your gut to handle fuel on the move. From gels to real food, this episode is all about keeping your engine running strong — and avoiding the dreaded bonk. | |||
| UTMB 2025 Carnage & The Leeds and Liverpool Canal Race with Daniel [Race Toughness Index Debut] | 01 sept. 2025 | 01:03:05 | |
This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails, Max flies solo and is joined by returning guest Daniel, fresh off completing the 130-mile Leeds–Liverpool Canal Race. We dive into:
👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. 💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our Patreon — every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails. Use code TTF15 at Protein Rebel for your 15% discount. | |||
| Chris Kelly: Coaching Ultra Runners & Representing Team GB | 28 août 2025 | 01:11:15 | |
Max and Sarah sit down with elite ultra runner and passionate coach Chris Kelly. From his jaw-dropping 273km win at Albi 24hr to course records and podiums across the UK, Chris shares the mindset, training, and grit behind his success — including his selection for Team GB’s 24-hour squad and prep for the upcoming World Championships in Albi. We dive into coaching insights, play our usual games, and explore what it really takes to go the distance. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. 💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our Patreon — every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails. Use code TTF15 at Protein Rebel for your 15% discount. | |||
| Ultra Tip Tuesday #1: How to Layer Like an Ultra Runner | 26 août 2025 | 00:04:21 | |
Welcome to our very first Ultra Tip Tuesday! In this short, practical episode, Max shares how to master layering so you stay warm, dry, and strong on the trails. We’ll break down the three-layer system: You’ll learn about hydrostatic head, why breathability matters as much as waterproofing, and the common mistake most runners make at the start line. 👉 Key takeaway: Start cool, go windproof when it’s dry, save the waterproofs for biblical weather. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our Patreon — every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails. 🎧 Don’t forget to share the episode, leave us a rating, and help spread the word! | |||
| Darren Evans: Pairing Up For The Planet | 20 août 2025 | 01:13:36 | |
This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails we’re joined by Darren Evans, founder of The Green Runners and Pair Ups — two movements changing the way we think about running and sustainability. We dive into: It’s an inspiring reminder that small changes — from repairing shoes to rethinking events — can add up to a big difference for the planet we love to explore. 👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners. 🎧 Don’t forget to share the episode, leave us a rating, and help spread the word! | |||
| Gillian McGale – “The Summer Spine: Blisters, Bulls, and Holy Hugs” | 07 août 2025 | 01:28:12 | |
268 miles. 155 hours. A few wrong turns. One bull. And a whole lot of grit and resilience. In this episode of Trails, Tales & Fails, we sit down with an inspiring ultra runner who took on the Summer Spine and came out the other side with blisters, stories, and a finish line moment to remember. From getting lost in the forest, to stubborn livestock, and the mental rollercoaster of non-stop movement — this conversation is raw, funny, and extremely inspiring. We talk feet, planning, hallucinations, sleep strategy, and how belief — both from within and from others — can get you to the end of even the longest trail. An inspiring reminder that you don’t need to be at the front of the pack to have an epic story to tell.Join our brand-new Facebook community group | |||
| Montane Lakeland 100 Debrief | 02 août 2025 | 00:55:43 | |
We’re back — and this week we’re diving deep into one of the toughest and most well supported ultras in the UK: the Montane Lakeland 100. From Coniston to Coniston, the 103-mile loop through the Lake District serves up over 6,000m of elevation, technical trails, and usually unpredictable weather. Max and Sarah relive this year’s race:, sleep-deprived hallucinations, brutal climbs, and that unbeatable community spirit from all involved. Sarah shares what it took to finish 3rd female and 13th overall in 24h40m, and we answer some great listener questions too. Also, a shout out to Daniel and Rebecca, who we met at the campsite. Congrats to Daniel for getting his 500 slate. Join our brand-new Facebook community group Alan Bedford is raising money for Maggie's Centres | |||