Golden Hour Adventures Podcast

Death March Running Company

In this episode, the hosts welcome guests from Death March Running Company. They discuss the genesis of Death March and the challenges faced by Pearl Izumi. The success of Death March and its impact on the ultra running community is also highlighted. The unique artwork of Death March is explored, and the individual ultra running stories of Alan and Taylor are shared. Embarrassing moments on the trail and the lessons learned from ultra running are discussed. In this conversation, the hosts discuss their personal experiences in ultra running and the founding of Death March Running Co. They share stories of their first ultra races and how they got hooked on the sport. They also talk about the future plans for Death March, including expanding their product line and organizing their own race. The conversation concludes with a discussion of the hosts' upcoming races and adventures.
 
https://deathmarchrunningcompany.com/ 
 
Takeaways
Death March Running Company was born out of a desire to celebrate the challenges and rewards of ultra running in a fun and irreverent way.
The demise of Pearl Izumi as a trail running shoe brand was due to the company's decision to focus on its core cycling market.
The success of Death March has exceeded expectations, with a strong following and positive reception from the ultra running community.
The unique artwork of Death March sets it apart from other ultra running clothing lines.
Alan and Taylor share their individual ultra running stories, highlighting the challenges and triumphs they have experienced.
Embarrassing moments on the trail are a common occurrence in ultra running, but they often lead to valuable lessons and memorable experiences. Personal experiences in ultra running can be transformative and lead to a deep passion for the sport.
Death March Running Co. started as a way to create unique and fun apparel for ultra runners.
The company plans to expand its product line and organize its own race in the future.
The hosts are excited about their upcoming races and adventures in the ultra running world.
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Welcome
01:03The Genesis of Death March
03:00The Rise and Fall of Pearl Izumi
05:02The Birth of Death March
08:13The Success of Death March
09:14Supporting the Ultra Running Community
11:30The Artwork of Death March
15:31Alan's Ultra Running Story
19:16Embarrassing Moments on the Trail
25:31Taylor's Ultra Running Story
30:57Learning the Hard Lessons
35:00Introduction and Personal Experiences in Ultra Running
55:52Future Plans for Death March Running Co.
01:01:44Where to Find Death March Running Co.
01:03:09Upcoming Races and Adventures

Jameson Collins | Houda Trail

In this episode, Jameson Collins, an ultra runner, shares his experiences and insights into the world of ultra running. He discusses his participation in the Triple Crown and backyard ultras, as well as his training and strategy for these races. Jameson also talks about his sleep strategy during races and the importance of taking care of his body. He shares some funny and embarrassing stories, including hallucinations during races. Overall, Jameson's journey in ultra running is filled with challenges, growth, and a passion for pushing his limits. In this conversation, Jameson Collins shares his experience of dealing with bathroom issues during a race and how it affected his performance. He then discusses the origins of his company, Huda Trail, and how he started making gear using a special fabric designed for the military. Jameson explains the unique properties of the fabric that make it ideal for running in various conditions. He also mentions the other gear he uses, such as shoes and lights. Finally, Jameson recommends his coach, Legend, as a guest for the podcast and shares where listeners can find Huda Trail gear.
 
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Ultra Running Background
01:23Backyard Ultra and Triple Crown
03:00Training and Strategy
06:40Sleep Strategy
08:30Goals and Challenges
11:29Hiring a Coach
12:30Race Experiences: Tahoe, Bigfoot, and Moab
19:20Recovery and Body Adaptation
22:08Hallucinations and Funny Stories
35:36Dealing with Bathroom Issues during a Race
38:53Starting Huda Trail
43:16The Special Fabric Used in Huda Trail Gear
49:00Other Gear Used by Jameson
56:41Recommendation for a Guest
57:02Where to Find Huda Trail Gear

Aaron Jenson | Cancer Conqueror

In this episode, Aaron Jensen shares his journey from being overweight and diagnosed with high blood pressure to becoming an ultra runner. He talks about his transition to ultra running, including his first 50-mile race and his progression to running 100-milers. Aaron also discusses his experience surviving colon cancer and how it impacted his running. He shares insights into training and fueling with a colostomy bag and the mindset shift he went through during his recovery. In this conversation, Aaron Jensen shares his journey as a cancer conqueror and ultra runner. He discusses how he fought against cancer and conquered it, leading to a new way of life. Aaron shares insights he gained from his experience, including increased empathy, listening to his body, and prioritizing family. He also talks about finding purpose in inspiring others and the importance of turning struggles into opportunities. Aaron shares his goals of qualifying for the Western States 100 and returning to Leadville for redemption. He discusses the gear he uses, including handhelds and Hoka shoes. Aaron highlights the people who inspire him and invites others to reach out to him for support and conversation. He shares his social media handles and encourages those going through similar experiences to know that they can still live a fulfilling life. The conversation concludes with gratitude and hope for the future.
 
Takeaways
Transitioning from hiking to ultra running can be a gradual process, with hiking providing a solid foundation for endurance and strength.
Hiking can be a valuable training tool for ultra running, as it allows for low heart rate exercise and builds strength for steep terrain.
Having a positive mindset and finding motivation can help overcome challenges and setbacks, such as a cancer diagnosis.
Running with a colostomy bag is possible, and with proper preparation and supplies, it does not have to limit performance or participation in races.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:55 Getting into Running
03:00 Transition to Ultra Running
06:26 Running the Buffalo Run and Squaw Peak 50
08:08 Running the Wasatch 100
10:09 Training and Hiking
12:22 Antelope Island Races
13:47 Running Multiple Distances
16:18 Running After Cancer Diagnosis
21:21 Denial and Acceptance of Cancer
25:20 Recovery and Training After Surgery
28:00 Mindset Shift and Motivation
34:52 Fueling and Running with a Colostomy Bag
37:44 Managing the Colostomy Bag During Races
39:03 Cancer Conqueror
41:14 Insights from Conquering Cancer
43:11 Finding Purpose
46:22 Goals: Western States 100 and Leadville
49:11 Gear: Handhelds and Hoka Shoes
53:18 Inspiring People
54:45 Shoutouts and Social Media
58:06 Closing Remarks

Aum Gandhi | Run Tri Bike

Aum started running as a way to work on his mental health. Aum found the ultra-trail world and has never looked back. As we were speaking with Aum he had to just finished Across the Years where Aum ran over 300 miles. Aum has run the Moab 240 and is now dipping his feet into the Triple Crown of 200s in the year of 2024. Aum has run crazy races throughout the world.  Aum’s heart beats for the Richstone Family Center, an organization dedicated to treating and preventing child abuse and trauma. His connection with Richstone began outside the ultrarunning circle during college. Aum’s civil engineering projects intertwined with their mission, and a bond was forged. 
You can find Aum at Home - Run Tri Bike (runtrimag.com)
 
 
 
 

Heather Jacoby | Asé Pure Naturals

Heather Jacoby is the proud founder of Asé Pure Naturals—a brand deeply rooted in the transformative power of natural healing. 
At Asé Pure Naturals, they go beyond being just a brand; they are advocates for a vibrant and enduring life. Their mission extends beyond recovery for athletes; They are committed to promoting a healthy and fit lifestyle, fostering longevity, and enriching lives with boundless joy. It's not just about looking good; it's about feeling good from the inside out.
 
In Heather's early 30s, she found herself caught up in the complexity of pharmaceuticals, taking pill after pill, hoping for relief but experiencing a mix of side effects. Picture this: a storm of anxiety, depression, and the heavy burden of relying on medications swirling in the background of my life. She was stuck with antidepressants, Adderall, sleeping pills, and Valium—each promising relief but delivering a chaotic symphony of side effects. Eventually, she decided to break free from this cycle. It was an incredibly difficult time for her, and she strongly recommends talking to a doctor before making such decisions. 
Emerging from the shadows of pharmaceuticals, she found solace in CBD and trail running. This newfound passion stitched her physical and emotional well-being together, enabling rigorous training and quicker recovery for her love of endurance sports. Mindful of what she put in and, on her body, the search for a natural alternative rooted in trust has become a personal mission, driven by a deeper purpose to make a positive impact and support others on their wellness journey. 
 
Picture this: a woman who never considered herself an athlete discovering the joy of running through nature. Trail running wasn't just exercise; it became her lifeline, a natural antidepressant often overlooked by conventional medicine. Through the darkness of those miles, she found the light that had eluded her.
Now, at the age of 47, she is fitter and happier than ever, running hundreds of trail half marathons and several ultra-marathons, and currently training for an Ironman. She doesn't just run trails; she rusn a business that embodies the essence of my journey—Asé Pure Naturals. More than a brand, it's a celebration of wellness, a tribute to the transformative power of being active for the health of it.
 
www.asepurenaturals.com 

Do you use speakers on the trail?

In this episode, Justin and Robbie discuss the controversial topic of using speakers on trails. They share their personal opinions and experiences, including a funny story about encountering different reactions to playing music on a trail. They also discuss the safety concerns and benefits of using speakers, highlighting the importance of being aware of one's surroundings. Justin and Robbie compare the disconnecting experience of using headphones versus the more inclusive experience of using speakers. They also touch on the use of headphones in town versus the wilderness. The episode concludes with an announcement of a special giveaway to celebrate reaching 10,000 podcast downloads and a heartfelt thank you to the listeners.
Takeaways
Opinions on using speakers on trails vary, with some people enjoying the freedom to listen to music or podcasts while others prefer the natural sounds of nature.
Using speakers on trails can be a safety measure, as it alerts wildlife to your presence and reduces the risk of surprising or startling animals.
Using speakers allows for a more inclusive experience, as it allows runners to be aware of their surroundings and interact with other trail users.
The Golden Hour Adventures podcast is grateful for its listeners and plans to celebrate reaching 10,000 downloads with an exciting giveaway.
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Controversial Topic
00:30Opinions on Speakers on Trails
01:13Funny Story about Music on Trails
03:07Safety Concerns and Benefits of Speakers
04:13Disconnecting with Headphones vs. Speakers
05:23Using Headphones in Town vs. Wilderness
06:32Peace of Mind and Safety with Speakers
07:40Announcement: 10,000 Downloads Giveaway
08:57Thank You to Listeners

Heidi Quinn | Race Director & Ultrarunner

Heidi is an ultramarathoner and race director who is working hard to bring more ultra distance races to Alaska, the place where she first fell in love with trail running and the ultra community. She currently directs several races in the MatSu valley where she lives with her husband, son (also an ultramarathoner and Nordic skier) and two Weimaraners. Heidi is also the Retail Buyer for AKtive Soles Performance Footwear, a run specialty store with a mission to get people moving in the outdoors.

Tips for a Better Race Season with Dr. Lunn and Endurance Dave

In this episode, the hosts discuss various topics related to nutrition and training for endurance sports. They start by diving deeper into heat training and its benefits for acclimatization and performance. They also discuss the importance of electrolyte balance and hydration, especially in hot climates. Finally, they explore fueling strategies for beginners and seasoned athletes, emphasizing the role of carbohydrates and the need for personalized nutrition plans. In this conversation, Endurance Dave and Dr. William Lunn discuss various aspects of nutrition for endurance athletes. They cover topics such as fueling for a marathon, pre-race nutrition, training muscle glycogen stores, starting nutrition for endurance athletes, the ketogenic diet, the importance of whole food nutrition, symptoms of poor nutrition, and the benefits of cluster dextrin for hydration. They also provide their contact information for further inquiries.
Takeaways
Heat training can be beneficial for acclimatization and performance in hot climates.Maintaining electrolyte balance and proper hydration is crucial for endurance athletes, especially in hot conditions.Fueling strategies should be personalized and based on individual needs, with an emphasis on carbohydrates for energy during endurance events. Endurance athletes can rely on their muscle glycogen stores to fuel them for a marathon without needing additional fuel or water during the race.For shorter races like 5Ks and 10Ks, pre-race nutrition is important but doesn't require drastic changes to an athlete's habitual nutrition.Training and proper nutrition can increase an athlete's muscle glycogen storage capacity, allowing them to perform better in endurance events.It's important for athletes to start with their current nutrition plan and make small adjustments based on their performance and energy levels.The ketogenic diet may not be necessary or beneficial for most athletes, and it can take time for the body to adapt to using fat as a primary fuel source.Prioritizing whole food nutrition is crucial for athletes, and drastic changes to nutrition should be avoided unless medically necessary.Symptoms of poor nutrition include low energy levels, weight loss, bloating, and hyponatremia (water intoxication).Cluster dextrin is a carbohydrate that can enhance gastric emptying and absorption, making it beneficial for hydration during endurance events.Endurance Dave can be reached at Endurance Dave on Instagram or via email at david.martin@uconn.edu. Dr. William Lunn can be reached at lunnw1@southernct.edu or scsu@gmail.com.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Heat Training16:35 Electrolyte and Hydration31:08 Fueling for Endurance Sports40:50 Fueling for a Marathon43:32 Pre-Race Nutrition45:16 Training Muscle Glycogen Stores47:27 Starting Nutrition for Endurance Athletes50:35 Ketogenic Diet for Athletes53:41 Importance of Whole Food Nutrition54:01 Symptoms of Poor Nutrition58:10 Cluster Dextrin and Hydration01:02:38 Contact Information

Dan Adamietz | From 1 Mile to Ultra

Dan Adamietz, MS, ATC, CSCSFrom central MN, currently living in Saint Paul, MNHas been an Athletic Trainer for 12 years and is currently studying to earn a Doctor of Chiropractic degree. Has worked at in high schools, rural physical therapy clinics, urban private practice orthopedic surgical centers, and 5 years at the division 1 collegiate level on the East coast. Holds multiple certifications such as Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist and being an RRCA certified running coachCurrently the head coach for “A Running Start” which is a beginning runners program through Mill City and Saint City Running CompanyRuns various distances from 1 mile to ultra marathons and simply enjoys race day, trail running culture, competing, and celebrating every runner’s accomplishments. Member of the Brooks Run Happy Team 2020-2024, Nuun Hydration Ambassador 2018-2024 

Ryan Stephenson | Ultra Runner

Ryan talks about how he met Robbie in this episode. Ryan talks about his mental health and how running trails has shaped who he is today. Ryan is a first responder and has responded too many horrific accidents. 

Justin's Race Recap of Bandera 100K

In this episode, Justin shares his experience running the Bandera 100k race. He discusses his training leading up to the race, including his high volume, low intensity approach. Justin also talks about the travel from Alaska to Texas and the packet pickup experience. On race day, he faces unexpected foot pain but pushes through with the support of his crew. Robbie joins him as a pacer for part of the race, and they navigate the technical and challenging course together. Despite facing difficulties, Justin and Robbie both finish the race and reflect on the importance of friendship and perseverance. In this conversation, Justin and Robbie discuss their experience at the Bandera 100K race. They talk about waiting at the finish line, walking alone on the trail, running in pain, training and nutrition, fueling with cluster dextrin, feeling full and hydrated, post-race recovery, reflecting on the race, dealing with foot pain, the challenging course, and the power of the mind.
 
Takeaways
Training with a high volume, low intensity approach can be effective for race preparation.
Mimicking race day conditions during training, such as running on a treadmill in a heated garage, can be beneficial.
The support and camaraderie of friends during a race can make the experience more enjoyable.
Adapting to unexpected challenges and adjusting goals during a race is important for success.
Documenting the race experience through photos and videos can create lasting memories. The mind is a powerful tool and can help you push through pain and achieve incredible things.
Proper training and nutrition, including the use of cluster dextrin, can help improve performance and prevent stomach issues during a race.
Feeling full and hydrated during a race can be achieved with the right fueling strategy.
Post-race recovery is important, and it's essential to listen to your body and give it the rest it needs.
The Bandera 100k course is challenging, with rocky terrain and steep climbs.
Having a strong mind and mental resilience is crucial in endurance sports.
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Training
04:11Race Day Preparation
15:46Race Day Experience
25:18Running with Friends
31:51Pacing and Challenges
37:00The Final Stretch
39:48Waiting at the Finish Line
40:41Walking Alone on the Trail
41:41Running in Pain
43:18Training and Nutrition
46:08Fueling with Cluster Dextrin
49:02Feeling Full and Hydrated
52:16Post-Race Recovery
54:59Reflecting on the Race
57:26Dealing with Foot Pain
58:46The Challenging Course
59:33The Power of the Mind

John Calabrese | Ultra Runner

John Calabrese lives primarily in the fatass race scene doing local trail races with The Virginia Happy Trails Running Club and local events all over the East Coast. He’s got a full race schedule for 2024 but is extremely motivated to run the Sri Chinmoy 24-hour race in Congers NY in June. John’s current dream is to get into the Sri Chinmoy Self-Transcendence 3100 Mile Race. 
 
 John is a father of a busy kid (who is very much into her own sports), he works as a caregiver, and is a trail shoe reviewer for Believe In The Run.

Gabby Sylvester | Ironman & Marathoner

Gabby is a member of the Brooks Ambassador team with Justin. They talk about their love for Brooks, Gabby running a marathon in her wedding veil, and how she got into triathlons. We laughed a lot on this one, hope you enjoy the episode.  

Tales from the Trails New Year Edition

Justin and Robbie discuss all that happened in their lives in 2023 and what they are looking forward to in 2024. Join us as we look back on all that happened. 

Patrick Kuretich | Trail & Ultra Runner

Patrick is a Trail and Ultra Runner, a happy dad, husband, professional engineer, and not so professional trail runner. Lucky to live in Colorado and be in the middle of a ton of beauty. He lives with autoimmune (alopecia and vitiligo) and is a sun screen enthusiast. Join us for his story.

Jason Halladay | HardRocker

Jason has completed Hardrock 100 in both directions to become a true Hardrocker. Jason has quite running resume starting back to 2005 with his first 100 miler at Leadville 100.  Jason has attempted Nolans 14. Nolans 14 is 14, 14ers in Sawatch range of Colorado. Jason has a strong mountaineering background. 

Jessie Trejo | Cyclist | Ultra-Runner

Jessie is a United States Navy Veteran. Jessie is a cyclist, ultra runner and a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practioncer. Jessie started running because she has a crazy best friend that she does stupid shit with. Running gave me my "why" That "why" is what pushes me to better on the trails and in life. It's about fighting the demons and pushing through the pain. The body will do what the mind tells it, it's having the mental strength to never give up.

Amanda Katz | Fitness Professional | Marathoner

Amanda is a full-time fitness professional. She's a certified personal trainer, RRCA certified run coach and serves as a group fitness instructor specializing in indoor cycling, treadmill running and total body conditioning formats at Equinox in New York City. Her philosophy is based on the notion that all bodies deserve a fitness experience without punishment, guilt or shame. She approaches her craft with humor, real talk and ultimately, wants her clients to feel stronger and confident in their bodies through movement. To learn more, visit Amanda on Instagram at @amanda_katzz or amandaskatz.com

Michal Coombs | Ultra-Runner | PhD Student

Michal Coombs works and is a PhD student at Rocky Mountain University. For her dissertation, she is exploring how trail/ultrarunning impacts the runner’s sense of self-efficacy and empowerment. She thinks the most romantic gesture her husband has given her is the race cards he makes for every trail race she’s done (he has the course map/elevation on one side and aid stations, mileage between aid stations, terrain description, and time of day I’d have to be at each aid station for A, B, or C time goals). In her spare time, Michal tries to convince her two boys trail running is awesome. Click the link below to take her survey:
Qualtrics Survey | Qualtrics Experience Management

Michelle Schroff | Ultra-Runner & Podcast Host

Michelle AKA Waddell Running Lady on IG is an Ultra runner from Arizona who embodies that running is fun. She even hosts Fun of the Run Podcast, where she breaks down her life and running in a fun way that anyone can relate to. She is fresh off her 2nd ultra the Pass Mountain 50K. Listen along as we dive into her running and life and laugh all along the way.