Episodes

Monday Aug 18, 2025
Sweat, Tears, and a Second Chance: The Inspiring Story of Robbie Pike
Monday Aug 18, 2025
Monday Aug 18, 2025
https://www.instagram.com/runshills605/
Robbie Pike, ultra running, addiction recovery, personal journey, running community, mental health, fatherhood, life lessons, resilience, motivation
Summary
In this episode, Robbie Pike shares his personal journey from being a passionate ultra runner to facing challenges with addiction and finding his way back to running. He discusses the impact of his family life, the struggles he faced during his addiction, and how running became both a coping mechanism and a source of joy. Robbie emphasizes the importance of community support and the lessons learned through his experiences, ultimately looking forward to new beginnings with the upcoming Cowboy 200 race.
Takeaways
Robbie identifies as a father first, highlighting the importance of family.His journey into running began as a way to improve fitness and mental toughness.Robbie's first ultra experience taught him valuable lessons about endurance and self-discovery.He faced challenges balancing personal life and running commitments.Addiction played a significant role in his life, impacting his running and relationships.Robbie emphasizes the importance of community and support in recovery.He acknowledges the need to confront personal demons rather than run from them.Robbie's story illustrates the connection between trauma and addiction in many athletes.He expresses excitement about returning to running with a fresh perspective.Robbie aims to inspire others by sharing his journey and encouraging open conversations about addiction.
Titles
The Journey of Robbie Pike: From Runner to RecoveryFinding Strength in Vulnerability: Robbie's Story
Sound bites
"I got to go home.""I was DFL.""I was always high."
Chapters
00:00 Introducing Robbie Pike: The Co-Host's Journey02:51 Robbie's Early Running Days and Transition to Ultra Running05:27 The Challenges of Balancing Life and Running08:06 The First Ultra Experience: Lessons Learned10:30 The Evolution of Robbie's Running Journey12:51 The Impact of Personal Life on Running15:36 The Struggles with Addiction and Running18:04 Finding Purpose in Running Again20:41 The Road to Recovery and Self-Discovery23:27 The Importance of Community and Support25:49 Looking Forward: Cowboy 200 and New Beginnings

Monday Aug 11, 2025
Monday Aug 11, 2025
Keywords
running, ultra marathon, race experiences, training, sponsorships, race standards, trail running, personal goals, ultra running community
Summary
In this engaging conversation, Justin and Robbie discuss their recent race experiences, upcoming challenges, and the evolving landscape of ultra running. They reflect on personal training insights, the importance of race qualifications, and the influence of sponsorships in the running community. The dialogue emphasizes the camaraderie within the ultra running family and the significance of safety and experience in tackling challenging races.
Takeaways
Justin shares his experience of running a half marathon unexpectedly.Robbie expresses his nervousness about an upcoming 200-mile race.The duo discusses the mental challenges of ultra running.They celebrate a friend's recent win in a backyard ultra.The conversation highlights the need for race qualification standards.Justin and Robbie reflect on their personal experiences with trail running.They discuss the importance of safety in ultra races.The duo contemplates the future of race directing and standards.They share insights on upcoming races and personal goals.The conversation ends with a call to action for listeners to engage with the podcast.
Sound bites
"Congrats on your win!""I think the sport needs it.""Come out and run with me!"
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter02:45 Half Marathon Experience and Reflections04:40 Upcoming 200-Mile Challenge09:23 Discussion on Team Races and Experiences12:51 Changes in Race Qualification Requirements18:46 Conclusion and Future Considerations18:47 The Evolution of Ultra Running19:38 Race Directors and Runner Safety21:00 Personal Perspectives on Iconic Races22:28 The Hard Rock Family and Community22:55 Killian's Ambitious Adventure24:52 Eerie Encounters in the Wilderness28:44 Training and Preparation for Upcoming Races34:06 The Joy of Racing Without Pressure35:12 Upcoming Events and Community Engagement

Monday Aug 04, 2025
Julianna Coughlin | Podcaster | RD | Ultra Runner
Monday Aug 04, 2025
Monday Aug 04, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Justin and Robbie welcome Julianna Coughlin, a registered dietitian and ultra marathoner, to discuss her experiences in the world of ultra running. They explore the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from road to trail running, the importance of individualized nutrition for athletes, and the unique rewards of participating in ultra marathons. Julianna shares her personal journey, including her training regimen, safety concerns for female runners, and the fun side of running gear. The discussion also touches on the running community and the impact of social media on athletes' lives.

Monday Jul 28, 2025
License to Run The Controversial Rule Facing Utah's Trail Runners
Monday Jul 28, 2025
Monday Jul 28, 2025
In this episode, Robbie discusses the controversial topic of trail access and the requirement of hunting or fishing licenses for trail runners in Utah. He explores the implications of such regulations on outdoor recreation, the funding and maintenance of trails, and the responsibilities of the community in preserving public lands. The conversation emphasizes the need for open dialogue among users, lawmakers, and conservationists to ensure that public lands remain accessible and well-maintained for all.
Takeaways
The requirement for hunting or fishing licenses for trail access raises concerns among trail runners.Funding for trail maintenance often comes from various sources, including taxes and user fees.Trail runners contribute to the conservation of public lands without taking resources from them.Comparative analysis of trail fees shows that reasonable fees can support maintenance and facilities.Community engagement is essential in discussions about public land management and access.Conservation efforts should be balanced with the needs of outdoor recreationists.Transparency in how user fees are allocated is crucial for public trust.The conversation around public land access needs to include diverse perspectives.Maintaining trails and facilities is a shared responsibility among users and government agencies.Open dialogue can lead to better solutions for managing public lands.

Monday Jul 21, 2025
Jeff Greer | Running with Owls
Monday Jul 21, 2025
Monday Jul 21, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Jeff Greer shares his humorous and adventurous experiences with trail running, particularly his encounters with owls. He discusses the creation of his unique owl hat designed to protect runners from owl attacks, his journey from casual running to participating in Ragnar relays and ultra marathons, and the importance of community in the running world. Jeff also highlights the significance of having the right gear and the personal growth he has experienced through running in nature.

Monday Jul 14, 2025
Talking Hardrock and Marketing
Monday Jul 14, 2025
Monday Jul 14, 2025
In this episode, Justin and Robbie discuss various topics ranging from Robbie's harrowing experience with brake failure to the latest developments in the ultra running community, particularly focusing on the Hardrock and the emergence of women in ultra running. They delve into the marketing strategies of The Feed, the dynamics of race participation, and the community's response to safety incidents during races. The conversation is rich with personal anecdotes, insights into the ultra running culture, and reflections on the evolving landscape of competitive running.

Monday Jul 07, 2025
Life and Suffering
Monday Jul 07, 2025
Monday Jul 07, 2025
In this episode, Justin and Robbie discuss their upcoming participation in the Cowboy 200, share personal life updates, and reflect on their running experiences. They delve into the challenges of ultra running, the importance of mental resilience, and the journey of sobriety. The conversation also touches on elite runners and their ability to handle suffering, as well as the pressures of major races like Western States. Additionally, they share insights on home renovations and the balance of life and running.
00:00Introduction and Upcoming Guests
03:17Cowboy 200 Race Preview
06:00Life Updates and Recent Adventures
11:28Sober Journey and Personal Growth
22:21Running with Intention and Music
24:53Exploring the Wild Ride of Fantasy Literature
27:32Fitness Journeys: Cycling and Running Adventures
30:10Home Renovation Chronicles: The DIY Experience
34:41The Pressure of Elite Ultra Running
43:32The Balance of Suffering in Ultra Running
56:21Red Sunset Mountain Background Thanks for Watching Youtube Outro .mp4

Monday Jun 30, 2025
Jeff Garmire | Ultras & FKTs
Monday Jun 30, 2025
Monday Jun 30, 2025
In this engaging conversation, ultra runner Jeff Garmire shares his experiences and insights on various topics, including his remarkable journey through the Great Western Loop, the mental challenges faced after long hikes, and the intricacies of preparing for the Appalachian Trail FKT attempt. The discussion also touches on the differences between ultra running and thru-hiking, the role of pacers in races, and the evolving landscape of competitive running. Garmire emphasizes the importance of community in races like Bighorn and reflects on the mental resilience required in both ultra running and hiking. He also discusses the significance of nutrition and preparation for long-distance events, providing a comprehensive look into the life of an ultra runner.
All of Jeff's info can be found on:
https://www.freeoutside.com

Monday Jun 23, 2025
Kettle Moraine 100 Race Recap
Monday Jun 23, 2025
Monday Jun 23, 2025
In this episode, Robbie and Justin celebrate the upcoming three-year anniversary of their podcast, Golden Hour Adventures. They discuss the future direction of the podcast, including a temporary shift away from guest interviews to focus on their own experiences and race recaps. Justin shares his recent experience at the Midnight Sun Run, detailing the challenges of running with a stroller and the community atmosphere of the event. The conversation then shifts to Justin's training for a 100-mile race, exploring the balance between family life and running, and the adjustments he plans to make for an upcoming 200-mile race. They emphasize the importance of enjoying the process and finding a sustainable approach to training. In this conversation, Justin Andreas shares his experiences and challenges faced during a recent ultra marathon, including strategies for managing heat, nutrition issues, and the importance of aid stations. He reflects on the lessons learned about expectations and self-discovery through the race, emphasizing the significance of enjoying the journey rather than fixating on specific goals.
00:00Introduction and Future of the Podcast
02:49Shifting Focus: Tales from the Trails
05:26Justin's Race Recap: The Midnight Sun Run
11:12Training for the 100-Mile Race
19:19Balancing Family and Running
22:03Reflections on Training and Results
24:49Long Runs and Training Strategies
26:43Mindset for the 200-Mile Challenge
29:15Travel and Race Preparation
33:34Race Day Experience and Conditions
40:59Nutrition Challenges During the Race
48:42Aid Station Support and Recovery
52:07Navigating Nutrition During the Race
59:23Reflections on Performance and Expectations
01:07:16Adapting Nutrition Strategies
01:07:41Aid Station Experiences and Community Support
01:11:36Lessons Learned from the Journey

Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
Justin Bartram | Ultra Runner
Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Justin Bartram shares his journey from being a reluctant runner to embracing the world of ultra running. He discusses the differences between TikTok and Instagram, the importance of community in running, and the mental challenges faced during long-distance races. The conversation delves into how running serves as a therapeutic outlet for many, including those overcoming personal struggles.

Monday Jun 09, 2025
Kendra Renee | BUA Queen | Ultra-Runner
Monday Jun 09, 2025
Monday Jun 09, 2025
In this engaging episode of the Golden Hour Adventures Podcast, host Kendra Wilson shares her unique journey into the world of ultra running, humorously dubbed the 'Queen of Bad Ultra Running Advice.' From her first experiences with running to her triumphs and challenges in ultra marathons, Kendra discusses her mental grit, the lessons learned from her DNF experiences, and the importance of community in the ultra running world. With a candid and humorous approach, she reflects on her past struggles with health and how they shaped her running journey, while also looking forward to future races and personal growth. In this engaging conversation, Kendra Wilson shares her experiences on Green Mountain, discussing the challenges of trail running and the importance of safety for women in the ultra running community. She recounts humorous and embarrassing moments from her runs, emphasizing the camaraderie and support found among fellow runners. Kendra also highlights the need for accountability in the running community regarding inappropriate behavior, advocating for a safer environment for all participants. The discussion wraps up with Kendra's insights on running gear, nutrition, and her nonprofit work aimed at supporting mental health through guided self-reflection recordings.

Monday Jun 02, 2025
Tales from the Trails | Black Canyon 100K DQ | Half Tights
Monday Jun 02, 2025
Monday Jun 02, 2025
In this conversation, Justin and Robbie discuss the growing trend of men wearing tights for running, sharing personal experiences with different brands and styles. They delve into the controversy surrounding a recent race disqualification involving a runner who took outside aid, questioning the fairness of the penalties imposed. The discussion shifts to the future of prize money in ultra running, exploring the challenges and potential solutions for increasing financial incentives in the sport. In this conversation, Justin and Robbie delve into various aspects of trail running, including the concept of backyard ultras, environmental stewardship, race participation dynamics, and their personal training experiences. They discuss the challenges of managing trail use and the community's relationship with the land, as well as the excitement and anticipation surrounding race lotteries. The conversation also touches on the importance of training strategies and the unique experiences that come with outdoor adventures.

Monday May 26, 2025
Nick Klastava | Runner | Coach | Podcaster
Monday May 26, 2025
Monday May 26, 2025
In this episode, the hosts engage with Nick Klastava, a passionate runner and coach, who shares his journey from high school basketball to becoming a dedicated runner. Nick discusses his experiences in running, including transitioning from shorter races to marathons and ultras, the impact of running on his life, and the importance of coaching. He emphasizes the need for tailored training approaches for new runners and the significance of intensity over sheer mileage. Nick also reflects on his recent decision to transition to full-time coaching, seeking a better work-life balance. In this conversation, Nick Klastava discusses his coaching philosophy, the importance of personalized training, and the evolving relationship between coaches and athletes. He emphasizes the significance of communication and adaptability in coaching, as well as the journey athletes undergo in their training. The discussion also touches on the impact of social media on coaching and the importance of caring in the fitness community. Additionally, Nick shares insights about his podcast and engages in fun rapid-fire questions.
https://www.youtube.com/@BetweenTwoCoaches
https://www.runningexplained.com/runcoaching

Monday May 19, 2025
Jay Tinsley | TrailRunner | Black Men Run | TURF
Monday May 19, 2025
Monday May 19, 2025
In this conversation, Jay Tinsley shares his journey from being a husky baseball player to becoming an avid trail runner and ambassador for Black Men Run and TURF. He discusses the differences between road and trail running communities, emphasizing the supportive nature of trail running. Jay also highlights the importance of family involvement in running and the need for greater representation of Black individuals in endurance sports. He reflects on cultural perspectives regarding sports and the motivations behind pursuing athletic endeavors, particularly in the Black community. In this conversation, Jay Tinsley discusses the importance of pursuing passions in sports for enjoyment rather than financial gain. He highlights the challenges athletes face in making a living from their sports, the significance of community and fellowship in running, and how vulnerability can emerge through shared struggles. He emphasizes the need for inclusivity in running groups and the cathartic nature of running as a means to connect with others. He also shares insights on resourcefulness in nutrition for runners, advocating for creative and practical solutions to fuel their activities.
https://blackmenrun.com/blackmenrun-chapters/phoenix/

Monday May 12, 2025
Tales from the Trails | Cocodona and Life
Monday May 12, 2025
Monday May 12, 2025
In this episode, Robbie and Justin discuss their recent experiences, including travel challenges, a car accident, and the resilience required to navigate unexpected situations. They also delve into running techniques, hydration strategies, and the Cocodona race, highlighting impressive performances and personal insights. In this conversation, Robbie and the host discuss various aspects of ultra racing, focusing on performance highlights, the competitive landscape, and the significance of events like Cocodona. They delve into the role of sponsorship, analyze race performances, and address challenges related to live streaming coverage. The discussion also touches on training strategies for upcoming races and the potential for alternative training methods, such as cycling, to enhance endurance.

Monday May 05, 2025
Shayla Wesch | Runner | Podcaster
Monday May 05, 2025
Monday May 05, 2025
In this engaging podcast episode, Shayla Wesch discusses her journey as a runner and podcaster, sharing insights on the challenges of running, the comparison game among runners, and the unique experiences of family running. The conversation also touches on the humorous aspects of stroller running and the personal growth that comes from participating in races. With a mix of light-hearted banter and serious reflections, the episode offers a comprehensive look at the world of running from different perspectives. In this conversation, the participants discuss the influence of family on running habits, the dynamics of training routines, and the challenges of night and trail running. They share personal anecdotes about their children's involvement in running, the bonding experiences that come from shared activities, and the unique challenges faced during races, particularly in varying conditions. The conversation highlights the joys and struggles of balancing family life with a passion for running. In this engaging conversation, Shayla Wesch shares her insights on ultra running, trail races, and her experiences with major marathons. The discussion delves into the nuances of virtual marathons, the challenges of backyard ultras, and the strategies involved in these unique running events. Additionally, Shayla discusses her favorite running gear and nutrition, providing valuable tips for both new and experienced runners. The episode concludes with Shayla sharing her social media handles, inviting listeners to connect with her.

Monday Apr 28, 2025
Ashley Pipkin | Cross Country Coach | Ultra Runner
Monday Apr 28, 2025
Monday Apr 28, 2025
In this episode of Golden Hour Adventures, Justin and Robbie welcome Ashley Pipkin, an ultra runner and cross country coach. They discuss Ashley's journey from a non-athletic childhood to becoming a competitive runner, her collegiate running experience, and the differences in training and resources available to collegiate athletes. Ashley shares insights into coaching cross country, the challenges of training young athletes, and her transition to ultra running. The conversation also touches on her experiences in the Smoky Mountains, including an eerie encounter while camping, and her recent podium finish at the Promise Land 50k. The episode concludes with Ashley's aspirations for future races, including the Barclay Classic. In this engaging conversation, Ashley Pipkin shares her experiences and insights from her recent ultra running events, discussing her race strategies, nutrition choices, and future goals. The discussion also delves into the fun side of running with quickfire questions that reveal Ashley's personality and preferences, making for an entertaining and informative episode.
00:00Introduction and Running Adventures
03:01Ashley Pipkin: From Cross Country to Ultra Running
06:07Collegiate Running Experience and Training Insights
09:03Coaching Cross Country: Strategies and Challenges
11:50Transitioning to Ultra Running and Trail Experiences
15:01Experiences in the Smoky Mountains and Eerie Encounters
17:57Recent Achievements and Future Aspirations
35:58Race Reflections and Future Goals
42:01Nutrition Strategies for Ultra Running
47:44Quickfire Questions and Fun Insights

Monday Apr 21, 2025
Kayla Fitzgerald | RD Squared
Monday Apr 21, 2025
Monday Apr 21, 2025
In this episode, Kayla Fitzgerald shares her unique journey from being a novice runner to becoming a race director for Palmetto Ultras. She discusses her initial struggles with running, her discovery of trail running, and her experiences with ultra marathons, particularly the Barkley Fall Classic. Kayla emphasizes the importance of community in running, her approach to race directing, and the unique aspects of the races she organizes, including innovative swag and DNF awards. In this conversation, Kayla Fitzgerald discusses the challenges and experiences of ultra running, particularly focusing on backyard ultras and the unique perspectives of mid to back of the pack runners. She shares insights on the significance of belt buckles in the ultra running community and her journey to becoming a registered dietitian. The discussion also delves into the nutritional concerns of runners, emphasizing the importance of proper fueling strategies and the need to embrace a flexible approach to nutrition without strict labels. In this conversation, Kayla Fitzgerald, a registered dietitian and ultra runner, shares her insights on nutrition strategies for ultra running, emphasizing the importance of carbohydrate intake and gut training. The discussion transitions into a light-hearted quickfire round where Kayla shares her favorite running gear, race nutrition, and even her thoughts on dinosaurs, showcasing her personality and passion for the sport.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Kayla Fitzgerald02:09 Kayla's Journey into Running06:03 Discovering Trail Running09:50 Experiences with the Barkley Fall Classic17:53 Becoming a Race Director23:59 Unique Aspects of Palmetto Ultras29:56 Swag and DNF Awards32:04 Embracing the Challenge of Ultra Running33:09 Understanding Backyard Ultras and Their Appeal34:49 The Mid to Back of the Pack Perspective36:45 Strategies for Success in Backyard Ultras38:44 The Significance of Belt Buckles in Ultra Running44:10 The Journey to Becoming a Registered Dietitian49:00 Nutrition Concerns Among Runners55:40 Fueling Strategies for Long Runs01:00:01 Finding Balance in Nutrition and Performance01:03:11 Fueling Strategies for Ultra Running01:09:09 Quickfire Questions and Personal Preferences

Monday Apr 14, 2025
The Price of Ultra
Monday Apr 14, 2025
Monday Apr 14, 2025
In this episode of Golden Hour Adventures, Robbie and Justin delve into the financial aspects of ultra running, discussing the rising costs associated with races, gear, and training. They explore the impact of social media on the perception of ultra marathons, the glamorization of the sport, and the reality of the challenges faced by runners. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the financial commitment required for participating in ultra marathons and the evolution of running gear costs over the years.

Monday Apr 07, 2025
Derek Sprau | Chicago Marathon Race Production
Monday Apr 07, 2025
Monday Apr 07, 2025
In this conversation, Derek Sprau shares his extensive experience in the running community, particularly focusing on the production side of major marathons like the Chicago Marathon. He discusses the immense logistics involved in organizing such events, the role of charity runners, and the emotional impact of finishing a marathon. Derek also reflects on the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and his transition from full-time production work to consulting. The conversation highlights the dedication and passion of those involved in the running community and the complexities of race day operations. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of organizing large-scale races like the Chicago Marathon, discussing the intricate relationship between race directors and city politics. They explore the contrasting appeals of road marathons versus trail running, emphasizing the accessibility of road races for urban dwellers. The discussion also touches on personal aspirations in ultra running and concludes with a philosophical question about risk and personal values.






