This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the incredible Tyson Black, an ultra runner whose story will leave you inspired and filled with hope.

Tyson shares his journey from a place of personal struggle and loss to finding strength and healing on the trails. He speaks with raw honesty about the mental battles he faced, the importance of community support, and how running became his lifeline during those dark times.

But it's not just about the miles. Tyson opens up about the challenges he encountered during races, the mental strategies he used to push through, and the profound impact ultra running has had on his life. It's a reminder that sometimes, the toughest races are the ones we run within ourselves.

Tyson's story is a testament to the transformative power of running, the importance of setting goals, and the unwavering belief in the human capacity for growth. It's a must-listen for anyone who's ever faced adversity and found strength in the face of challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tyson Black's Journey

04:41 The Impact of Loss and Grief

10:51 Turning Points: From Struggles to Running

19:36 The Awakening: Realizing the Need for Change

27:42 Building a Supportive Community

34:47 The Transformation: From Walking to Running

37:40 From Walking to Running: The Journey Begins

40:22 Building a Morning Routine: Consistency is Key

43:41 Setting Goals and Finding Motivation

46:31 The Importance of a Strong Foundation

48:25 Nutrition: The Missing Piece

50:16 The Power of Consistency and Discipline

53:33 Transitioning to Endurance: The Ultra Running Dream

01:00:00 Finding Community and Support in Running

01:03:41 Training for Success: The Role of a Coach

01:07:28 The Pain Cave: Discovering Inner Strength

01:12:44 Facing Challenges: The Flu and Race Day

01:13:41 Overcoming Setbacks and Building Resilience

01:15:53 Race Day Preparations and Nutrition Strategies

01:20:17 Navigating Challenges During the Race

01:29:07 Mental Fortitude and Support Systems

01:43:51 Transformation and Personal Growth Through Running

01:51:17 The Power of Shared Struggles

01:52:23 Finding Purpose in Pain

01:55:18 Listener Questions and Insights

01:56:48 Consistency in Workouts

01:59:33 Aid Station Favorites and Race Experiences

02:04:08 Reflections on the Gong Loco Experience

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the incredible Justin Hamilton, an ultra runner whose story will leave you breathless and inspired.

Justin doesn't hold back, sharing his journey from casual runner to ultra marathoner, and how those pivotal moments in his life, including military service, struggles with alcohol, and personal tragedy, shaped his path. We talk about the importance of finding balance amidst the chaos of life, and how Justin's found strength in the ultra community.

But it's not just about the miles. Justin opens up about the mental and physical hurdles he's faced, and how ultra running has become a source of growth and resilience. We also dive deep into his experiences at the Fierce Dragon 200 Miler, a race that pushes runners to their absolute limits.

Justin's story is a powerful reminder that running is more than just a sport; it's a journey of self-discovery, a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity, and a celebration of the strength we all have within.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Justin Hamilton

01:27 Justin's Journey into Running

06:05 Running as a Measure of Life

06:46 Challenges in the Army and Personal Struggles

11:18 Transition to Law Enforcement

15:29 Tragedy and Its Impact on Justin's Life

17:57 Turning Point: Embracing Running and Sobriety

21:21 Becoming Ultra Dad

27:14 Races and Achievements

36:00 The Sweet Side of Ultra Running

36:19 Racing Journey: From Treadmill to Trails

38:01 Honoring Friends Through Endurance

39:16 Lessons from the 100K Experience

43:03 Nutrition: The Key to Endurance Success

45:41 Overcoming Challenges: The Mental Game

51:09 The Role of Social Media in Accountability

55:51 Finding Balance: Family and Ultra Running

01:06:27 Training Philosophy and Race Goals

01:09:09 Reflections on Past Races

01:10:33 The Mid-State Mile Experience

01:12:03 The Fierce Dragon 200 Miler Overview

01:14:52 Race Strategy and Challenges

01:31:15 Why I Run: A Personal Reflection

01:42:00 Exploring Unique Beverages for Endurance Athletes

01:44:19 The Appeal of Fastest Known Times (FKTs)

01:52:36 Dream Races and Future Aspirations

01:54:21 Balancing Life, Family, and Running Goals

02:05:07 Podcast Journey and Community Engagement

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the incredible Anny Borisov, a runner whose journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit. Anny's story isn't just about miles and finish lines; it's about overcoming obstacles, finding strength in adversity, and embracing the transformative power of running.

Anny shares her inspiring journey from Bulgaria to the United States, and how a battle with breast cancer ignited her passion for running. We talk about her transition from 5Ks to marathons and ultras, her love for Spartan races, and the challenges she faced after a serious biking accident.

But it's not just about the physical feats. Anny opens up about the mental fortitude it takes to overcome setbacks, the importance of community support, and how running has become a form of therapy, a way to reclaim her health and her life. It's a reminder that running is about more than just the miles; it's about the journey within.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Anny B's Journey

02:57 From Bulgaria to Competitive Running

06:03 Overcoming Adversity: Cancer and Running

08:54 The Evolution of a Runner

11:52 Experiences in Ultra and Spartan Races

14:40 Marathon Madness: A Year of Challenges

17:33 The Importance of Goals and Achievements

20:24 World Championships and OCR Experiences

23:29 Life Changes and New Perspectives

26:13 Cultural Insights: Sports School in Bulgaria

29:18 Finding Home in Morristown, Tennessee

31:24 Journey Through Marathons and Ironman Training

32:10 The Impact of the Accident

34:02 Recovery and Resilience

36:58 Details of the Accident

43:45 Mental Strength and Determination

46:46 Nutrition and Race Preparation

01:01:37 Celebrating Achievements and Overcoming Challenges

01:04:48 The Essence of Being a Runner

01:08:52 Memorable Races and Personal Triumphs

01:12:22 The Drive to Keep Running

01:16:34 Recovery and Resilience After Adversity

01:18:32 Advice for Overcoming Obstacles

01:22:12 Proud Moments in Racing

01:24:37 Unexpected Sources of Energy

01:29:54 Reflections on a Journey of Strength

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by ultra runner Coree Woltering, a guy who's not afraid to chase those wild ultra dreams.

Coree takes us on his journey from multi-sport athlete to dedicated ultra runner, sharing those early experiences and the lessons learned along the way. We talk about his first ultra, the challenges he faced, and how he discovered the importance of fueling his body for those long hauls.

But it's not just about the miles. Coree opens up about some of his most memorable races, including the Dunes 100 and Western States, and how he's learned to embrace the experience, not just the competition.

We also dive into the unique challenges of running in different countries, the importance of consistency in training, and how Coree's passion for the sport has taken him on incredible adventures around the world.

Whether you're a seasoned ultra runner or just starting out, Coree's story is packed with inspiration, wisdom, and a whole lot of heart.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Corey Waltering and His Journey

02:54 Transition from Triathlons to Ultra Running

05:37 First Ultra Experience: Lessons Learned

11:24 The Challenge of the 50K and Chafing Woes

16:40 Recovery and the Move to Leadville

22:10 Silver Rush 50-Miler: A Tough Race

27:16 Tunnel Hill: Redemption and New Perspectives

29:35 The Dunes 100 Experience

34:16 The Unpredictability of Ultra Running

38:38 The Journey to Western States

44:52 Cultural Experiences in Racing

53:37 Challenges of Ultra Trail Snowdonia

58:41 Racing Around the World

59:45 Reality of Reality Shows

01:00:37 The Journey to New Zealand

01:04:06 Sponsorship and Career Development

01:09:04 The Importance of Representation in Running

01:13:09 Running in Chattanooga: A Local Perspective

01:16:15 Favorite Races on the East Coast

01:21:50 Advice for Aspiring Ultra Runners

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the incredible Jamie Saunders, an ultra runner who embodies the true spirit of grit and grace.

Jamie's journey is one of pushing limits, overcoming obstacles, and discovering the strength within. We talk about her evolution from competitive sports to tackling those grueling ultra courses, including the Miami 100 and her recent victory at the Trident 80-Miler.

But it's not just about the miles. Jamie opens up about the power of community, the mental toughness it takes to succeed in ultra running, and the importance of finding joy in every step. We also dive into her plant-based lifestyle and how it fuels her performance.

Jamie's story is one of passion, perseverance, and the unwavering belief in the human spirit. It's a must-listen for anyone who's ever chased a dream.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jamie Saunders and Her Running Journey

02:52 Transition from Soccer to Long-Distance Running

05:24 First Experiences with Ultra Running

08:03 Plant-Based Diet and Its Impact on Performance

10:31 Challenges Faced During Races

13:17 First 100-Mile Race Experience

19:21 Comparing Miami 100 and Keys 100

31:37 Future Races and Goals

34:02 Journey Through Ultra Running

35:14 The Trident 80-Miler Experience

44:38 The Barkley Fall Classic Adventure

57:44 Race Across Florida 200: A New Challenge

01:10:25 Navigating Race Logistics

01:11:48 Memorable Races and Personal Connections

01:18:53 Challenges and Mental Toughness in Racing

01:20:46 The Purpose Behind Running

01:24:16 Training for Elevation in Florida

01:33:11 Future Running Plans and Community Engagement

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're lacing up our boots and hitting the trail with John Hardin & Keith Overbay as they talk about crewing and setting the Natchez Trace FKT.

We're not just talking about the miles and the records. We dive deep into the heart and soul of these FKT attempts, exploring the meticulous preparation, the emotional rollercoasters, and the physical challenges that push runners to their limits. It's a raw and honest look at what it takes to chase those big, audacious goals.

But it's not just about grit and determination. We also talk about the power of community and support in the ultra world, and how those connections can lift you up when the going gets tough. It's a reminder that we're all in this together, and that shared passion can fuel incredible achievements.

So if you've ever dreamed of chasing your own FKT, or if you're simply inspired by stories of human resilience and perseverance, this episode is a must-listen.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Guests and Their Journey

05:39 John's Running Journey and Early Experiences

11:28 Keith's Entry into Running and Shared Experiences

13:54 The Natchez Trace FKT Attempt: Background and Preparation

18:18 Preparation and Training for the FKT

26:21 Challenges Faced During the FKT Attempt

31:24 Final Preparations and Logistics for the FKT

33:51 Preparation and Day One Overview

46:56 Day Two Challenges and Adjustments

57:22 Day Three: Injury and Mental Struggles

01:04:35 The Struggle of Endurance

01:08:31 Finding Strength in Pain

01:11:53 Mental Challenges and Breakthroughs

01:17:37 The Role of Support and Crew

01:23:57 The Final Push to the Finish Line

01:35:00 The Journey to the FKT

01:42:56 The Emotional and Mental Aspects of Running

01:48:09 Community and Connection in Trail Running

01:52:58 The Challenges of Crewing

01:56:04 Looking Ahead: Future Adventures