Episodes
5 days ago
5 days ago
In this engaging podcast episode, Steve Epifano shares his journey as an ultra runner, discussing his experiences with the Frosty Looper race and the challenging Cocodona event. He opens up about overcoming medical challenges related to his heart condition, the rigorous training he undertook, and the importance of nutrition and gut training for endurance races. The conversation highlights the technical difficulties faced during podcasting, the camaraderie among runners, and the personal growth that comes from pushing physical limits. In this conversation, Steve Epifano shares his experiences and insights from endurance running, particularly focusing on the Cocodona 250 race. He discusses the importance of sleep and recovery, pacing strategies, and the role of crew chiefs in ultra running. The conversation also delves into heat training techniques, personal growth through challenging experiences, and the motivation behind creating a documentary about his journey. Steve emphasizes the mental toughness developed through endurance challenges and the impact of these experiences on his life and coaching career.
Monday Jan 06, 2025
Ryan Head | Ultra Runner
Monday Jan 06, 2025
Monday Jan 06, 2025
In this engaging podcast episode, Robbie and Justin welcome Ryan Head, an ultra runner who shares his journey into the world of ultra running. The conversation explores the joy of running, the challenges faced in races like Wasatch and Bear, and the dynamics of the Utah running community. Ryan reflects on his experiences, including the lessons learned from a DNF (Did Not Finish) and the importance of finding enjoyment in the sport. The episode highlights the camaraderie among runners and the beauty of the outdoor experience. In this conversation, Ryan Head shares his experiences balancing ultra running with family life, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing family over personal ambitions. He discusses the challenges of training for demanding races like the Wasatch and Bear, and reflects on the supportive role of his wife. The conversation also explores the vibrant ultra running scene in Utah, highlighting various races and the evolution of the sport in the region. Ryan shares insights on his favorite gear, nutrition, and the mental aspects of running, culminating in a rapid-fire question segment that reveals his personal preferences and experiences.
Monday Dec 30, 2024
Jeff Winchester | Ultra Runner | Podcaster
Monday Dec 30, 2024
Monday Dec 30, 2024
In this engaging podcast episode, host Justin welcomes Jeff Winchester, a fellow podcaster and ultra runner, to discuss various aspects of trail running, including the differences between East Coast and West Coast trails, the community surrounding the Yeti 100 race, and strategies for training for ultra marathons. They delve into the challenges of running in different environments, the importance of mental preparation for races, and the allure of 'easier' races as a gateway into the ultra running world. The conversation also touches on the significance of race qualifiers like Western States and the preparation required to tackle such demanding events. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the dynamics of race entries, the challenges of balancing family life with ultra running, and the importance of communication in coaching. They share personal experiences and insights on how to motivate athletes through tough training blocks and reflect on their favorite races and the lessons learned from them.
Monday Dec 23, 2024
Ricky Urias "Rage Rhino" | Living Life Just Above Average
Monday Dec 23, 2024
Monday Dec 23, 2024
In this engaging conversation, Justin and Robbie discuss various topics including non-alcoholic beverages, running experiences, and the challenges of ultra-distance races. They welcome Ricky Urias, a member of the UltraSpire team, who shares insights about his journey in ultra-running, his role at UltraSpire, and the innovative gear they offer. The discussion also touches on the Cowboy 200 race and the unique challenges it presents compared to other ultra races. In this engaging conversation, the hosts delve into the nuances of trail running, sharing personal experiences from various races, discussing the role of medics, and reflecting on the emotional journey of finishing an ultra. They explore the differences between road and trail running, the significance of race buckles, and the unique challenges faced by ultra runners. The discussion is filled with humor, insights, and camaraderie, making it a relatable and inspiring listen for anyone interested in the world of endurance sports.
https://livinglifejustaboveaverage.com/
Monday Dec 16, 2024
Steve Lineman | Cowboy 200
Monday Dec 16, 2024
Monday Dec 16, 2024
In this episode, Justin shares his experience of running an ultra marathon in Alabama, discussing the challenges and joys of ultra running. The conversation transitions to Steve Lieneman, who recounts his unique journey into the world of ultra running, starting from a non-runner background to completing multiple ultra marathons. The discussion covers the importance of community, overcoming challenges, and the thrill of adventure in trail running. In this conversation, the speakers delve into their experiences with ultra marathons, discussing the importance of nutrition, training adjustments due to injuries, and the unique challenges posed by different race terrains. They share personal anecdotes from recent races, highlighting the supportive community within the ultra running scene and the inspiration drawn from older runners. The discussion also touches on the appeal of timed events and the significance of setting goals in the sport. In this engaging conversation, the hosts delve into the intricacies of ultra running, discussing training strategies, the importance of energy management, and the invaluable role of coaching. They share personal anecdotes and insights, emphasizing the need for proper nutrition, mental resilience, and the right gear to succeed in ultra marathons. The discussion also highlights the significance of learning from experiences and the community aspect of running, making it a rich resource for both novice and seasoned runners.
Monday Dec 09, 2024
James Howton | Ultra Runner
Monday Dec 09, 2024
Monday Dec 09, 2024
n this episode, Robbie and Justin discuss their running experiences and training goals before welcoming guest James Howton, an experienced ultra runner. They explore James's journey from road running to trail running, the evolution of ultra running, and the importance of nutrition and smarter training. The conversation also touches on the growing trend of younger runners in the ultra scene and the challenges they may face in terms of longevity in the sport. In this engaging conversation, the hosts and guest James Howton reflect on their experiences in ultra running over the past year. They discuss various races, the challenges of mountainous courses, and the mental toughness required to complete these demanding events. The conversation also delves into the transformative power of trail running, the importance of community, and the gear that supports their adventures. James shares insights on how ultra running has taught him about his own mental strength and resilience, and the group emphasizes the value of connecting with others in the ultra running community.
Sunday Dec 01, 2024
Trail Runner's Holiday Gift Guide
Sunday Dec 01, 2024
Sunday Dec 01, 2024
In this episode, the hosts dive into a comprehensive Christmas gift guide tailored for runners, featuring a variety of recommendations from apparel to hydration packs. With insights from guest Heidi Baker, the conversation explores the importance of choosing the right gear for different running needs, emphasizing personal preferences and experiences. The hosts share their favorite products, discuss the significance of fit and comfort, and provide tips for selecting gifts that cater to the unique requirements of runners. In this segment of the conversation, the hosts discuss essential running gear, including hydration packs, trail shoes, socks, safety gear for women, lighting solutions for night runs, and music options for runners. They share personal experiences and recommendations, emphasizing the importance of comfort, safety, and performance in running gear. In this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss essential gear for runners, focusing on hats, nutrition, and stocking stuffer gift ideas. They share personal experiences and recommendations for running hats that are comfortable and effective, delve into various nutrition options that work for them during runs, and suggest fun and practical stocking stuffer gifts for runners, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful gifts in the running community.
Monday Nov 25, 2024
Michelle Goldberg | Ultrarunner | Podcaster
Monday Nov 25, 2024
Monday Nov 25, 2024
In this engaging conversation, Justin, Michelle, and Robbie delve into the world of ultra running, focusing on the Javalina 100 race. They discuss the unique experiences of running long distances, the challenges of racing alone, and the camaraderie found on the trails. The conversation also touches on the vibrant atmosphere of the Javelina race, the importance of aid stations, and the dynamics of crew support. Listeners gain insights into how to navigate the excitement of race day while maintaining focus on their goals. In this engaging conversation, the hosts and guest Michelle Goldberg explore the exhilarating world of ultra running, particularly focusing on the Javelina 100 festival and the personal growth that comes from tackling such challenging races. They discuss the transition from shorter distances to 100-mile races, the mental and physical hurdles faced during these events, and the importance of nutrition and gear. Michelle shares her experiences and insights, making the conversation both informative and inspiring for anyone interested in endurance sports.
Monday Nov 18, 2024
Cortney Blackburn | 6-Star Marathoner
Monday Nov 18, 2024
Monday Nov 18, 2024
In this engaging podcast episode, the hosts welcome marathon runner Cortney, who shares her journey towards achieving the prestigious Six Star Marathon medal. The conversation delves into the intricacies of marathon cutoffs, particularly focusing on the Boston Marathon's controversial policies. Cortney discusses her experiences with various marathons, the role of charity runners, and the scrutiny she faced from the running community. The episode concludes with insights into the future of the Boston Marathon and the response from Abbott, the organization behind the Six Star challenge. In this engaging conversation, Cortney shares her experiences as a runner, discussing her journey through marathons, including the Boston Marathon, and her thoughts on trail running. The discussion highlights the importance of personal achievements, the joy of running, and the supportive community surrounding the sport. Cortney reflects on the significance of moments shared with friends and family during races, as well as her unique approach to nutrition during long runs. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by runners and the camaraderie within the running community, especially among international participants.
Monday Nov 11, 2024
Elliot Matson | Folklord
Monday Nov 11, 2024
Monday Nov 11, 2024
In this engaging conversation, Justin and Elliot Madsen discuss the inception of Folklore, a unique trail running apparel brand that emphasizes creativity, storytelling, and vibrant designs. Elliot shares his journey from a marketing background to creating a brand that stands out in the running community. The discussion touches on the importance of color in running gear, the challenges of sustainability in the industry, and the personal touch that Elliot brings to his brand. They also explore the creative process behind Folklore's engaging video content, highlighting the fun and inclusive nature of running. In this engaging conversation, Folklord shares insights into his journey of building a unique brand identity centered around trail running and community engagement. He discusses the evolution of his running habits, the importance of gear, and the joy of connecting with fellow runners. The conversation highlights the significance of storytelling in the running community and the personal experiences that shape one's passion for the outdoors.
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Monday Nov 04, 2024
Kristen Ghaffarain | Zion 100 Mile Challenge
Monday Nov 04, 2024
Monday Nov 04, 2024
In this episode of Golden Hour Adventures, Kristen shares her journey from a casual road runner to tackling the Zion 100 Mile Challenge. She discusses her early experiences with running, the transition to trail running, and the unique format of the Zion race, which emphasizes personal milestones over traditional racing pressures. Kristen highlights the supportive community she found during the race, the challenges of running through the night, and the physical demands of the course. Her story is one of growth, resilience, and the joy of running with friends. In this engaging conversation, Kristen shares her experiences and insights from running a hundred-mile ultra marathon. She discusses the challenges and costs associated with ultra running, the euphoric feeling of crossing the finish line, and the personal growth she experienced throughout the race. Kristen also shares a humorous yet relatable story about an embarrassing moment on the trail, highlighting the camaraderie and understanding within the running community. The conversation wraps up with a look towards future adventures and the connections made through shared experiences in ultra running.
Thursday Oct 31, 2024
Spooky Tales from the Trails | Listener Tales
Thursday Oct 31, 2024
Thursday Oct 31, 2024
In this Halloween special episode of the podcast, Justin and Robbie share spooky tales from their trail running experiences, including eerie encounters with mountain lions, unexpected wildlife, and listener stories that highlight the thrill and fear of running in the dark. The conversation flows through various anecdotes, blending humor with genuine fear, creating an engaging atmosphere for listeners who enjoy outdoor adventures and spooky tales.
Monday Oct 28, 2024
Relay Relay | Trail Running Indo-Rock Band
Monday Oct 28, 2024
Monday Oct 28, 2024
In this episode of Golden Hour Adventures, Justin interviews Jamie and Hannah from the band Relay Relay. They discuss their busy schedules, the dynamics of their duo, their musical backgrounds, and the transition to full-time musicianship. The conversation also touches on the challenges of the music grind, their evolution as artists, and the unique lifestyle of touring in a minivan. Jamie and Hannah share insights into their creative process, the importance of live performances, and how they navigate the music industry while staying true to their passion for music. In this engaging conversation, Jamie and Hannah discuss their experiences with aging, the joys of trail running, and the transition from road to trail running. They share embarrassing moments from their performances, delve into their musical gear and setup, and highlight inspiring individuals in their community. The discussion emphasizes personal growth, the beauty of nature, and the importance of creativity in both music and running.
Monday Oct 21, 2024
David Isaac | Coming Back After Surgery
Monday Oct 21, 2024
Monday Oct 21, 2024
n this episode, David Isaac returns to discuss his experiences in running, including his favorite races, family involvement in the sport, and the challenges he faced with health issues. He shares insights on the differences between road and trail running, the importance of community, and his journey of weight loss and recovery after surgery. David emphasizes the value of authenticity in the running community and the lessons learned from his health scares, ultimately inspiring listeners to embrace their own journeys in running and life.
00:00Introduction and Recap of Previous Episode
03:01The Mount Washington Road Race Experience
06:08Family and Running: Shared Experiences
08:52David's Journey into Running and Weight Loss
11:59Running in Different Locations: A Love for the West
15:01Transitioning from Road to Ultra Running
18:11Community Differences: Road vs. Trail Running
20:54Leading a Walking Group: Embracing Change
23:47Health Scares and Their Impact on Running
26:53Mindset and Recovery After Surgery
29:49Authenticity in the Running Community
33:04Second Chances and Life Changes
35:54Running After Health Issues: A New Perspective
38:59Favorite Gear and Nutrition for Running
41:50Shoutouts and Closing Thoughts
Sunday Oct 13, 2024
Lucja Leonard | Divide 200
Sunday Oct 13, 2024
Sunday Oct 13, 2024
In this engaging podcast episode, Lucia Leonard shares her inspiring journey from being an overweight individual who hated sports to becoming a successful ultra marathon runner. She discusses her transition into the world of ultra marathons, the challenges she faced during the Divide 200 race, and her strategies for nutrition and sleep during long races. Lucia also shares the heartwarming story of her dog Gobi, who became a symbol of resilience and companionship during her husband's ultra marathon in the Gobi Desert. The conversation is filled with laughter, personal anecdotes, and insights into the ultra running community.
0:00Introduction and Guest Background
02:11Lucja's Journey to Running
07:54The Transition to Ultra Marathons
12:44Cultural Differences in Stage Races
17:25The Divide 200 Experience
26:58Challenges Faced During the Race
35:14Nutrition and Sleep Strategies
40:10The Story of Gobi
46:30Embarrassing Moments in Racing
59:10Closing Thoughts and Future Plans
Monday Oct 07, 2024
Lindsay Walter | 6 Days in the Dome
Monday Oct 07, 2024
Monday Oct 07, 2024
In this episode, ultra runner Lindsay Walter shares her incredible journey through endurance running, including her experiences at the Six Days in the Dome event. She discusses her strategies for tackling long races, the importance of mental toughness, and the lessons learned from her challenges. Lindsay also opens up about her advocacy work for alopecia, her personal growth through running, and her future goals in the sport. The conversation highlights the supportive running community and the empowerment that comes from setting and achieving ambitious goals.
Tuesday Oct 01, 2024
Mark Martin | Leadman
Tuesday Oct 01, 2024
Tuesday Oct 01, 2024
In this episode of Golden Hour Adventures, the hosts discuss their running experiences, focusing on Justin's preparation for the Equinox marathon and Mark's incredible journey through the Leadman Challenge. They explore the challenges of ultra running, the transition from road to trail, and the importance of nutrition and training balance. Mark shares his personal stories of triumph and setbacks, including his experiences with injuries and the camaraderie found in the ultra running community. In this conversation, Mark Martin shares his experiences and challenges faced during the Lead Man series, which includes a 100-mile mountain bike race and a 10K run. He discusses the physical and mental hurdles he encountered, the importance of crew and pacing, and the unique aspects of each race. Mark reflects on his personal growth through the series and looks ahead to future races, emphasizing the support of his family and friends throughout his journey.
00:00Introduction and Podcast Dynamics
02:57Justin's Running Journey and Upcoming Marathon
05:58Mark's Leadman Challenge Overview
08:59Mark's Ultra Running Experience and Early Challenges
12:11Transitioning from Road to Ultra Running
14:57Mark's Training and Preparation for Leadman
18:04Nutrition Strategies for Ultra Running
21:04The Heavy Half and Silver Rush Experiences
24:06Balancing Running and Biking Training
26:59Mark's 100 Mile Mountain Bike Race Experience
35:13Navigating the Challenges of Mountain Biking
38:41The Experience of the 100-Mile Mountain Bike Race
41:01Transitioning from Biking to Running: The 10K Challenge
42:34Unique Starts: The 50-Mile Mountain Bike Race
44:29Preparing for the 10K After the 100-Mile Race
45:09Race Day: The Early Morning Start
46:36The First Half of the 100-Mile Run
49:27Facing Obstacles: Injuries and Challenges
52:12The Backside of Hope Pass: A Grueling Climb
55:28Pacing and Support: The Role of Crew
01:00:20Reflections on the Lead Man Series
01:04:49Looking Ahead: Future Races and Goals
01:11:00Gear Talk: What Works for Mark
01:13:45Shoutouts and Community Support
Monday Sep 23, 2024
GHA goes to Brooks Hype Fest
Monday Sep 23, 2024
Monday Sep 23, 2024
This conversation features a series of interviews with various runners reflecting on their experiences at Hype Fest and their personal journeys in running. Justin's a member of the Brooks Running Collective and while at their annual retreat he recorded some members of the team.
Monday Sep 16, 2024
Brandon Woods | Winter Ultra Runner
Monday Sep 16, 2024
Monday Sep 16, 2024
In this episode, the hosts welcome guest Brandon Wood, an experienced winter ultra runner. They start with a van update from Robbie before diving into Brandon's running journey and his love for winter ultras. Brandon shares his experience running the Susitna 100 and White Mountains 100, highlighting the challenging conditions and the camaraderie among runners. He also discusses the required gear for these races, including creative ways to meet the calorie requirement. The hosts and Brandon reminisce about their race experiences and the stunning scenery they encountered. They also touch on the mental challenges of long distances between aid stations. Brandon discusses his experiences with long-distance winter races, including the challenges of running in extreme cold temperatures and the importance of efficient checkpoint management. He also shares his training methods, gear preferences, and his role as the race director for the Resurrection Pass races. Brandon's homemade sled and his blog about building it have gained recognition in the running community. He recommends Jen Novobilsky, who completed a thousand-mile stage race across the UK, as a guest for the podcast.
Keywordswinter ultras, running, gear, camaraderie, challenges, aid stations, winter races, extreme cold, checkpoint management, training methods, gear preferences, race director, homemade sled, blog, guest recommendation
Takeaways
Winter ultras, such as the Susitna 100 and White Mountains 100, present unique challenges due to the harsh conditions and remote locations.
The camaraderie among runners is a crucial aspect of these races, providing support and motivation.
The required gear for winter ultras includes sleeping bags, bivys, and calorie reserves, leading to creative solutions to meet the calorie requirement.
The distance between aid stations, often around 20 miles, can be mentally challenging for runners.
The stunning scenery and natural phenomena, such as the Northern Lights, add to the allure of winter ultras. Running long-distance winter races requires mental fortitude and efficient checkpoint management.
Training with a sled and running with like-minded friends can make the experience more enjoyable.
Gear choices, such as shoes and packs, play a crucial role in winter races.
Brandon's homemade sled and blog about building it have been helpful resources for others.
Jen Novobilsky, who completed a thousand-mile stage race across the UK, would be a great guest for the podcast.
Titles
The Beauty of Scenic Winter Ultra Courses
Conquering the Challenges of Winter Ultras Conquering the Challenges of Winter Races
Building a Homemade Sled: Brandon's DIY Project
Sound Bites
"Any goals to go down to the lower 48 and do like arrowhead or any of those?"
"I feel like you have a pretty good resume to back up your application."
"You couldn't even see any evidence of a trail."
"The 20 mile, that's a mind play."
"Make sure you get the food you need, get your water refilled, all that kind of stuff."
"Having to endure the mentalness between aid stations was tough."
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Van Update
04:16Guest Introduction
07:17Brandon's Running Journey
10:13Winter Ultras and the Appeal of Cold Weather Running
13:11Goals and Applications for Winter Races
15:05Memorable Experiences in Winter Racing
18:57Differences Between Susitna 100 and White Mountains 100
21:38Creative Solutions for Meeting Calorie Requirements
23:26Scenic Beauty and Natural Phenomena in Winter Ultras
23:59Mental Challenges of Long Distances Between Aid Stations
24:07Challenges of Winter Races
26:03Efficient Checkpoint Management
29:37Gear Choices for Winter Races
34:25Building a Homemade Sled
46:15Guest Recommendation: Jen Novobilsky
Monday Sep 09, 2024
Chad Ultra
Monday Sep 09, 2024
Monday Sep 09, 2024
In this episode, Justin interviews Chad Ultra, a runner known for his persona and costumes during races. Chad Ultra explains how he came up with his character and the impact it has had on his running experience. He shares his journey into ultra running and his favorite races. Chad Ultra also discusses the balance between his persona and his real self, and how he uses humor to connect with others during races. Chad Ultra shares his experience of running races and building a community through his alter ego, Chad Ultra. He emphasizes the importance of having a supportive network of friends and the positive impact of seeing familiar faces during races. Chad also discusses the challenges and backfires of his alter ego, highlighting the need for clear communication and understanding. He envisions Chad Ultra as a space to encourage people to step out of their comfort zones and make trail running more fun. Chad also addresses the negative stereotypes faced by women and mothers who participate in ultra running and emphasizes the importance of supporting and celebrating their achievements.