Afleveringen
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Welcome Brendan Leonard to The Trailhead!
Heās the mind behind Semi-Rad, the master of stick figure cartoons, and now, heās ZoĆ«ās new co-host on The Trailhead. But instead of the usual "tell us about yourself" intro, weāre doing things our way. In this episode, Brendan gets interviewed by the person who knows him bestāhis mom.Kathy Leonard pulls no punches in this no-holds-barred sit-down, asking about everything from poop strategies to race regrets.
We also chat about what drew Brendan to ultrarunning, why the middle of the pack is where the magic happens, and how humor helps us survive the weirdest parts of trail running.
Weāre not here to chase clout or finish linesāweāre here for the characters, the comedy, and the community that make this sport what it is.
Thanks to Our Partners, Skratch Labs!Fuel your long runs the smart wayāwith real food ingredients backed by science.
Grab your free sample pack at skratchlabs.com with code REALFOODFUEL. -
Big changes are happening at The Trailhead! In this episode, co-hosts ZoĆ« Rom and Buzz Burrell reflect on Buzzās legendary career in trail running and his next big adventureāhis very own podcast, The Buzz with Buzz Burrell.
Buzz shares his perspective on how the sport has evolved, from the early days of ultrarunning to the rise of FKTs (Fastest Known Times), the integration of outdoor culture into trail running, and the innovations that have transformed the way we run. He and Zoƫ also discuss why authenticity matters in media, what makes someone a lasting presence in the sport, and what listeners can expect from The Buzz, launching March 25th.
š Shoutout to Our Sponsor: Running Warehouse!This episode of The Trailhead is brought to you by Running Warehouse, your one-stop shop for all things trail and ultrarunning. Check them out and gear up for your next adventure at RunningWarehouse.com.
Tune in for:š„ Buzz on the history of trail running and its evolution
Stay Connected & Tune In! Subscribe to The Buzz with Buzz Burrell ā launching March 25th! Follow UltraSignup for updates on new podcast episodes. Got questions or hot takes for Buzz? Email [email protected] Big news for The Trailhead is coming April 1st ā stay tuned!
š The rise of FKTs and why they matter
šļø Why The Buzz is bringing something new to trail running media
š¤ What makes someone a legend in the sport?
š Buzzās upcoming book on FKTs - check it out!š© Email us at [email protected] with your questions or guest ideas!
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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What makes someone want to run their first ultra? And more importantlyāwhat makes them want to come back for a second? The reality is, most people who sign up for an ultra only do one. But why? And how can we help more runners not just finish, but fall in love with the sport? Tune in for tips on running your first - or even tenth - ultramarathon.
In this episode, Buzz and ZoĆ« dig into what it takes to have a meaningful, successful experience at your first ultra, whether you're eyeing a 50K for the first time or looking to refine your approach. Theyāre joined by two powerhouse runners and coachesāDr. Stefanie Flippin and Krissy Moehlāwho have spent years helping athletes navigate the highs, lows, and everything in between when it comes to ultrarunning.
What keeps people from coming back after their first ultra? And what can we do to change that? How to transition from roads to trails ā Why adjusting your pacing expectations is key, and how to train when access to trails is limited. The best training approach for your first ultra ā What really works when it comes to long runs, back-to-backs, and balancing speed with endurance. Mindset shifts that make a difference ā From letting go of rigid time goals to understanding why ultras are as much about problem-solving as they are about running. The fueling equation ā Why past generations of ultrarunners got this wrong, and how 300+ calories an hour can change your entire race experience. Making ultras more accessible ā Stefanie shares what real inclusion looks like in the sport, and why handing someone a race bib isnāt enough. Thanks to Our Sponsors!Wahoo KICKR RUN: Take your run training to the next levelāwhether you're dialing in race-specific pacing, tackling structured workouts, or just escaping the elements. The Wahoo KICKR RUN is the first smart treadmill designed for endurance athletes, with real-road feel and precision control to match your effort. Train smarter and run stronger. Learn more at wahoofitness.com.
LMNT: Ultras arenāt just about waterāyou need electrolytes, too. Element makes that part easy, with a science-backed formula and none of the junk you donāt need. Our listeners can get a free sample pack with any purchase at drinkelement.com/ultrasignup.
Resources & Links Running Your First Ultra by Krissy Moehl ā https://krissymoehl.com/ Making Strides Podcast by Stefanie Flippin ā Listen Here Got a question for Buzz and ZoĆ«? Email [email protected] -
1:42 ā Buzz and ZoĆ« dive into how their relationship with running has evolved over the years. They explore what it takes to sustain a lifelong love of the sportāand Buzz dishes out some hard-earned running relationship wisdom.
11:58 ā ZoĆ« sits down with Tyler Green and Rachel Drake, a power couple in the ultrarunning world. They share the story of how they first met mid-race (pro tip: always pack soapāyou never know when youāll need to impress a potential suitor). They also break down how they juggle elite competition, parenting, and careers while keeping their love for both running and each other alive.
31:59 ā Buzz chats with Tabor and Eli Hemming, two of the fastest short-course trail runners in the game. They open up about how they push each other in training and tackle life togetherāboth on the racecourse and on their working ranch in Kremmling, Colorado. Tune in for grounded relationship advice, a dose of competitive fire, and maybe even a ranching tip or two!
The Trailhead is sponsored by Running Warehouse.
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In this episode, ZoĆ« and Buzz dive into their personal journeys toward identifying as environmentalistsāexploring why that label can feel complicated and what it truly means to take action for the planet.
7:12 Zoƫ sits down with Running for Real host and former elite marathoner Tina Muir to discuss the power of small, everyday actions in making running more sustainable. Tina shares the surprising challenges that races face when it comes to sustainability and how she began integrating environmental advocacy into her running.
27:51 Buzz chats with ultrarunning legends Scott and Jenny Jurek about their work with Protect Our Winters and why optimism is a powerful tool for climate advocacy. They discuss the importance of persistence in environmental action, the intersection of policy and personal choices, and how runners can lead the charge for a more sustainable future.
Tune in for practical insights, inspiring stories, and a fresh perspective on what it means to be a runner who cares for the planet.
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ZoĆ« and Buzz dive into what community means to them and why the Keep Trail Running Weird awards matter. Instead of focusing on elite athletes, these awards shine a spotlight on the everyday runners, the quirky characters, and the inspiring individuals who make up the heart of the trail running community. Itās our way of celebrating the people who keep this sport vibrant, inclusive, and downright fun
6:44 ā We chat with Dwight Swaney, winner of the Favorite Trail Weird award, about how to infuse more fun into every run. 13:12 ā Leah Kate Vincent, 2024's Most Inspirational award winner, shares how she encourages her community to hit the trailsāeven with a busy to-do list. 22:57 ā Tony Mendez, 2024's Best Dressed trail runner, gives us tips on embracing the crop top lifestyle and finding joy in the daily grind of running. 32:49 ā Heather Westberg, winner of 2024ās Best Trail Fail, recounts her wild injury story and how it led her to give back through volunteering. 41:05 ā Rich Tenaglia spent 2024 traveling across the U.S. in a van, running as many trail races as possible. He shares his insights on living simply and fully embracing the moment.This episode is a celebration of the quirky, bold, and inspiring people who make trail running the unique and vibrant community we all love. Donāt miss it!
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00:40 Buzz and Zoƫ chat about how they connect with nature through trail running, and why all trail runners should think of themselves as environmentalists.
6:48 Zoƫ interviews Luis Benitez, an environmental leader in the outdoor industry and a passionate advocate for sustainability and environmental stewardship, who has summited Mt. Everest six times. As the first-ever Director of the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office and , Luis brings a unique perspective on the intersection of outdoor recreation, environmental responsibility, and community impact and how all trail runners can be environmentalists.
33:37 Buzz interviews ultra legend Clare Gallagher about how approach to environmental stewardship, and how she finds meaning in her connection to nature offline and on the trails. They dive into her recent race in Bhutan, and how that has shaped her perspective on environmental storytelling and ultrarunning.
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Itās the end of 2024, and weāre wrapping up the year with a deep dive into the biggest trends, moments, and milestones in trail running. ZoĆ« Rom and Buzz Burrell share their top highlights from the year, including record-breaking performances, evolving race formats, and bold predictions for 2025. Joined by UltraSignupās Head of Data, Matt Abbott, this episode explores the stories behind the stats and how theyāre shaping the sport we love. Whether youāre a seasoned ultrarunner or just hitting the trails, thereās something here for you.
Chapters:
[00:00] ā Welcome to the Trailhead: Reflecting on the biggest moments of 2024 [01:22] ā Super Shoes in Trail Running: Hype vs. Reality [2:06] ā The Launch of the World Trail Majors: What It Means for the Sport [4:26] ā Tara Dowerās Appalachian Trail Record and Other Standout Performances [19:50] ā Breaking Down Trail Running Demographics with Matt Abbott: Whoās Running and Why? [24:42] ā The Rise of Backyard Ultras and the Boom in 200+ Mile Races [34:05] ā Women in Trail Running: Participation Trends and Media Narratives [46:39] - Is there a trail running hype bubble? [49:43] ā UltraSignup CEO David Callahan talks about the growth of trail running [55:07] ā The growth of run clubs [1:02:23]- What sustainable growth looks like for the trail community
Thanks to Our Sponsor:
Join us for the inaugural Utah 115 by Grand to Grand Ultra, May 16ā18, 2025, in stunning Kanab, Utah. Choose from 115- and 50-mile distances in one of the most dramatic landscapes on earth. Use code TRAILHEAD10 at checkout for 10% off registration.Connect With Us:
Have questions or ideas for the show? Email us at [email protected]. Donāt forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share the episode with your trail running crew. Thanks for meeting us at The Trailhead! -
1:00 Zoƫ and Buzz discuss the technological and cultural shifts that have led to the trail running livestream boom and debate what its impact will be on the sport.
6:04 Buzz interviews Aravaipa Running founder Jamil Coury. They discuss how Mountain Outpost is leading the way with livestreams and why he decided to buy Ultrarunning magazine. They also discuss how the sport has changed and how Jamilās love of bringing new people into the sport inspires him to keep pushing boundaries with event coverage.
28:06 ZoĆ« interviews writer and researcher Leigh Cowart, author of Hurts So Good: The Culture of Pain on Purpose, about the psychology that drives people to seek out uncomfortable experiences intentionally. They dive into how Leighās trip to Bigās Backyard Ultra inspired them to write about ultrarunners and what they learned about pain from hanging out with ultra athletes. -
0:50:00 Buzz and Zoƫ talk about what community means to them and how the trail running community can serve as a positive model as people reassess who they consider their neighbors.
11:09:00 Zoƫ interviews Tara Dower, who recently set the overall Fastest Known Time on the Appalachian Trail, about her preparation for the FKT and how her relationship with the iconic trail and with hiking and running has evolved over time. Tara talks about her trail running role models and how she wants to inspire more people to push their limits on the trail.
34:47:00 Buzz interviews Warren Doyle, who has hiked the AT 18 times and is the founder of the Appalachian Trail Institute. They discuss the trail's history of speed records and explain why so many hikers and runners are drawn to this iconic through-hike.
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:55 Zoƫ and Buzz discuss the "party platform" that all trail runners can agree on and how athletes can navigate election anxiety.
8:29 Buzz interviews RUN Editor in Chief Brian Metzler. Buzz and Brian discuss the biggest changes they've seen in the world of trail and ultrarunning and what's next for the running industry.
33:11 Zoƫ interviews TrainingPeaks co-founder Dirk Friel about how technology has changed training for endurance sports, and why AI isn't taking your coach's job just yet.
The Trailhead is sponsored by Running Warehouse. Running Warehouse offers the best brands and the widest selection of running gear. Our in-house experts make it easy to find the right shoes and apparel with thousands of reviews, product deep dives, how-tos, and more. Plus, with free shipping and fast delivery, Running Warehouse makes ordering simple.
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00:00:53 Buzz and Zoƫ chat through advice they wish they had gotten when they first started running, and advice for new and aspiring trail and ultrarunners.
00:8:53 Zoƫ interviews Randi Zuckerberg (yes, that Zuckerberg!) about how she went from running a half marathon, to signing up for the Cocodona 250 in a year. Plus, they dive into what it means to go all in on your passions, and advice for athletes balancing training with busy lives.
35:48:52 Buzz interviews Brendan Madigan, Race Director at Broken Arrow Sky Race about what it takes to run a three day event and what US races can learn from European style events.
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1:00 Buzz and Zoƫ discuss the intersection of trail running and alpinism, and how runners can stay safe when seeking high adventure.
14:00 Zoƫ interviews Kilian Jornet about his Alpine Connections Project, where he linked 82 peaks in under 20 days entirely under his own power. Kilian unpacks how he trained for his epic alpine adventure, and why he wants to use it to draw attention to climate change in the alps.
42:44 Buzz interivews pro trail runner and race director Mike Foote about how The Rut has become such a successful event, and how he was inspired by his experiences racing in Europe.
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1:00 Buzz and Zoƫ break down their favorite moments in ultra running history, from historic race performances to establishing new routes and FKTs.
14:20 Coach, writer, and podcaster David Roche discusses his record-breaking win at the 2024 Leadville 100, diving into his training, shooting his shot, and why ultra runners are getting so much faster.
39:11 Buzz interviews Jasmin Paris, the first woman to finish the Barkley Marathons. They dive into how Jasmin juggles training with a busy life as a parent and veterinarian, and how she prepares mentally for grueling events like the Barkley Marathons.
The Trailhead is sponsored by Running Warehouse. Running Warehouse offers the best brands and widest selection of running gear. Our in-house experts make it easy to find the right shoes and apparel with thousands of reviews, product deep dives, how-tos, and more. Plus, with free shipping and fast delivery, Running Warehouse makes ordering simple.
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0:55 ZoĆ« and Buzz discuss Buzzās recent travels around Europe, and why running is such a great way to explore new places.
10:55 Zoƫ interviews Dr. Jeffrey Hammond, a podiatrist who works with professional athletes to troubleshoot common foot problems. They discuss how runners can prevent common ailments like plantar fascitis, Achilles tendonitis, and dive into how to treat blisters on the fly.
27:16 Buzz interviews Mags Nixon, a professional trail running guide about running the Tour du Mont Blanc. With more and more interest in the loop around Mont Blanc each year, Mags breaks down how every athlete can explore the historic route on foot, along with vital trip planning tips to get the most out of your tour. Check out Mags' treks here!
This episode of The Trailhead is brought to you by Sidas, Your Foot Company. Every foot is unique, and every adventure demands the right support. At Sidas, we believe in preventing injuries so you can stay on the trails doing what you love. Take care of your feet, and they'll take care of you.
Protect your feet. Enjoy the trails.
Don't let foot pain hold you back. Use promo code trailhead20 for an exclusive 20% off your entire purchase at sidas.com. That's trailhead20 for 20% off.
With over 30 years of industry experience, Sidas offers performance insoles, innovative socks, and advanced skincare products designed to enhance your trail running experience, no matter the distance.
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1:20 Buzz and Zoƫ break down the post-Olympics hype, and discuss whether or not trail running should be an Olympic sport, and what it would mean to see trail elevated to the world stage.
14:32 Zoƫ interviews Vic Thasiah, founder and President of Runners For Public Lands. They discuss why Vic founded RPL and what all runners can do to better protect public lands and be better environmental stewards.
44:01 Buzz interviews Reid Delman, Race Director of the Desert Rats Trail Running Festival by UTMB about how his event has changed, and how it has stayed the same since being acquired by UTMB.
This episode of the Trailhead is brought to you by LMNT. As we hit the trails, from the seasoned ultrarunner to the weekend warrior, one thing we all need to nail is hydration. Grab a free LMNT Sample Pack, when you go to Whether you're powering through an ultra, or just exploring the trails, hydration is key. Check out LMNT and visit drinkLMNT.com/UltraSignup for a free gift from us to you with any purchase.
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1:02 Buzz and Zoƫ break down the differences between trail running in the US and Europe and why the trails in Europe are so awesome (read: hard).
18:57 Zoƫ talks to Mario Mendoza, a professional trail runner and pastor from Bend, about growing up on an avocado farm, falling in love with the outdoors at a young age, and balancing work, training and family. Mario and Zoƫ also talk about how Mario's running influences his faith and work as a pastor as well as how he's gearing up for OCC.
46:08 Buzz interviews Doug Mayer, the "Mayor of Chamonix" about French trail running culture, and how to plan a trip around Mont Blanc. They discuss why the culture of trail running differs in France and what everyone can learn from running in Europe.
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Hosts Zoƫ Rom and Buzz Burrell discuss the rise of races that are 200 miles and longer, why different running goals are valid, and what draws us to different events.
14:20 Zoƫ interviews the winner of the 2024 Cocodona 250, Rachel Entrekin, about how she approaches multi-day races and balances training with work and life (or doesn't!). They discuss sleep strategies, and how people can train for their first 200 mile race.
38:02 Buzz interviews Candice Burt, owner of Destination Trail Races, which hosts the Triple Crown of 200-mile races. They discuss Candice's work as a race director, what it takes to put on a 200-mile race, and her approach to long-distance races and FKTs as an athlete.
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00:49:47 Hosts Buzz Burrell and Zoƫ Rom discuss why the Western States Endurance run is getting so dang fast, and talk about why the Hardrock Endurance Run (which is not a race!!) attracts high caliber athletes and adventurers year after year.
14:54:35 Zoƫ Rom chats with Courtney Dauwalter about her historic triple last year, winning WSER, Hardrock and UTMB in a single summer, and how she's going to approach her big loop around the San Juan Mountains this weekend.
29:27:78 Buzz Burrell interviews Hardrock Race Director Dale Garland about why the event attracts runners from all over the world, what he's doing to make it more accessible, and what it takes to complete the wild and tough loop
Thanks to our generous partner, LMNT! Skip the dodgy stuff and make sure you properly replenish and recover after every run with LMNT hydration! Check out LMNT and visit drinkLMNT.com/UltraSignup for a free gift from us to you with any purchase.
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00:00:54 Hosts ZoĆ« Rom and Buzz Burrell discuss their connection to the Western States Endurance Run and why itās a rising tide for trail running.
12:58:00 Zoƫ Rom talks to pro ultrarunner Ryan Montgomery about how he embodies pride all year long, and how his patient approach to training has paid off in his running career, and his hopes for Western States this year. Ryan also shares how the trail and ultra community can be more inclusive and welcoming.
35:15:32 Buzz Burrell interviews Diana Fitzpatrick, WSERās Board President about how Western States has evolved over the years and how its leaders are preserving its essence. Buzz and Diana discuss how to make WSER more inclusive and welcoming and what this race means to the community.
This episode of The Trailhead is brought to you by Sidas, Your Foot Company.Every foot is unique, and every adventure demands the right support. At Sidas, we believe in preventing injuries so you can stay on the trails doing what you love. Take care of your feet, and they'll take care of you.
Protect your feet. Enjoy the trails.
Don't let foot pain hold you back. Use promo code trailhead20 for an exclusive 20% off your entire purchase at sidas.com. That's trailhead20 for 20% off.
With over 30 years of industry experience, Sidas offers performance insoles, innovative socks, and advanced skincare products designed to enhance your trail running experience, no matter the distance.
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