In this conversation, Melissa Londry shares her journey from a new mother to an accomplished ultra runner and race director. She discusses the challenges she faced during her races, particularly the Mamba 100, and the mental load of balancing family responsibilities with her passion for running. Melissa emphasizes the importance of self-care for mothers and the need for inclusive spaces in the running community, particularly through organizations like Trail Sisters, which advocate for women's rights in sports. The discussion highlights the ongoing gender disparity in ultra running and the efforts being made to create a more supportive environment for female athletes. Melissa discusses the challenges faced by female runners in trail and ultra running, including the intimidation of technical trails and the fear of not being fast enough. The discussion shifts to the importance of addressing sexual harassment in the running community, emphasizing the need for policies and support systems to create a safe environment for all participants. The conversation also touches on the societal pressures women face regarding their appearance while running, the role of men in combating gender issues, and the importance of building a supportive community for all runners. Melissa shares her future plans and the ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity and safety in the sport.

On Instagram, follow along with Melissa's races!

@newrivertrailraces

@crystalspringultras

⁠www.swvarunning.com⁠

⁠https://ustrailrunningconference.com/speakers/⁠

In this episode, we chat with Claire Bochenek, a passionate runner who shares her experiences with the Marathon des Sables (MDS), a grueling six-day race through the Moroccan desert. Claire discusses her journey into running, the allure of MDS, her training and preparation challenges, and the excitement of race day. She also delves into the logistical aspects of traveling to Morocco, the atmosphere of the race, and the importance of foot care and nutrition during such an intense event. We discuss the importance of nutrition, mental strategies for coping with physical challenges, and the unexpected realities of racing in extreme conditions. The conversation highlights the psychological impact of witnessing others struggle, the physical toll of the race, and the reflections that come after such a demanding experience. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the need for balance and acceptance in one's running journey.

Follow Claire on Instagram:

@clairebeaux

In this episode, Heidi and Michelle chat with Elliot Matson, the founder of Folklord, a trail running apparel brand. They discuss the unique designs inspired by mythology, the journey of building the brand, and the importance of storytelling in connecting with the running community. Elliot shares his personal running experiences and the challenges of creating a brand that stands out in the outdoor apparel market. In this conversation, they explore the intersection of folklore, design, and the running community. Elliot shares how he draws inspiration from various folklore elements while emphasizing joy, community, and storytelling in their designs. They discuss the importance of branding through unique photography and the playful spirit of running, moving away from the traditional focus on suffering in the sport. The conversation also touches on the significance of mindset, finding joy in the journey, and creating accessible products that resonate with the community. Follow along on Instagram:

@wearfolklord

⁠https://wearfolklord.com/⁠