From muddy trails to scenic city routes, our discussion explores the distinct joys and challenges between trail and road running. Relive the laughter from a muddy finish line mishap and iconic trail races like the Gorge Waterfalls, which keep capturing our imaginations. Even as we tip our hats to the allure of city marathons, it's clear our hearts beat for the adventure and scenery that trail races offer. Plus, we emphasize the importance of a shared race calendar to keep our running ambitions in check.

Hear about our inspirational encounters with coach Connie Gardner and how these connections have fueled our running goals. As we wrap up, we look forward to upcoming trail races and potential new guests, all while keeping the spirit of camaraderie and community at the center of our running journey. Tune in for this exciting episode filled with laughter, stories, and the undeniable bond formed through running.

Join us for an engaging conversation with Abby Herring, an athlete whose inspiring journey from collegiate track nationals to marathon running offers valuable insights for runners at any level. Abby shares her experiences from achieving a personal record and top ten at the Columbus Marathon to qualifying for the Boston Marathon on her first attempt in Charlevoix, Michigan.

The episode dives into the nuances of marathon preparation and nutrition, with Abby sharing her own race day logistics and strategies for overcoming the infamous "wall." From the unique aspects of the Boston Marathon to the support of the running community, Abby’s story is rich with practical advice and inspiration. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, this conversation offers a blend of motivation, personal anecdotes, and expert tips to help you on your running journey.

Matt Parker demonstrates immense determination, completing his first 100-mile race at the Canal Corridor in just over 14 hours. Explore the nuances of ultra-running as we discuss hydration and nutrition, critical components that can make or break a race. Personal stories unfold, including a scary bout with rhabdomyolysis post race.

We look at the camaraderie and mentorship that fuel the ultra-running community. Young talents like Matt are shaping the future of the sport, guided by experienced mentors like coach Connie Gardner & Jeremy Pope. From strategic race planning to the sheer mental and physical grind of ultra-marathons, this episode encapsulates the resilience and passion driving athletes forward.

Stay tuned for a sneak peek into our next episode featuring Abby Herring's achievements at the Columbus Marathon.

Discover the extraordinary journey of Ethan Koza, a runner who transitioned from college athletics to the world of ultramarathon racing. In this episode, Ethan shares how his experiences, from high school in Philadelphia to running at Lehigh and Temple Universities, have shaped his unique path and ignited his love for ultramarathons.

Get ready to be inspired by Ethan's story of perseverance, as he recounts his leap from 10K races to completing a grueling 100 miles. With a mentality of "ignorance is bliss," Ethan embraced the challenges of his first ultra-race, discovering the importance of camaraderie within the ultra-running community. Meanwhile, co-host Casey reveals his own preparations for the Canal Corridor 100 and explores the psychological and physical demands of ultra-running.

The episode also takes a fascinating look at Ethan's adventurous lifestyle, living out of his Subaru Forester, and his past experiences as a wildland firefighter. We discuss how these unique experiences contrast with the recognition gained through competitive running. As Ethan prepares for future races like Javelina and Black Canyon, we explore race strategies and celebrate the joy of pushing boundaries in the ultra-running world. Join us for an engaging conversation that offers insights into the mindset and dedication required for ultra-running success.

This week on the Hobby Jogger, friends of the show Jeremy Pope and Steven Kapes bring their unique perspectives to the table. Feel the adrenaline as we relive the challenges of the Saddles 50 mile ultra-marathon in Arizona. We swap stories about the race experiences of Steven and Jeremy, each propelled by the Jim Walmsley Tecton X3 shoes. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just a fan of endurance stories, this episode is your ticket to the trail running world and the camaraderie that defines it.

Ever wondered what it takes to breathe new life into a legendary race without losing its soul? Dann and Jim from Redpoint Productions share the story behind their takeover of the iconic Laurel Highlands Ultra, an event that has captivated runners for over four decades. You'll hear all about their strategic blend of honoring tradition while embracing necessary innovations like digital sign-ups and modern facilities.

Join us for an introspective and passionate discussion on the art of race directing, where Dann and Jim reveal the dedication it takes to manage ultra-endurance events. Whether you're a runner, a race organizer, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes intricacies, this episode offers a heartfelt exploration of what makes ultra races truly special.

Ever wondered what it’s like to run a 50K race with unexpected challenges? This week on Hobby Jogger, we recount our wild adventure at the Grindstone 50K with our friend Jason Cox. From a deceptive hornet’s nest encounter that led to a hilarious debate on bee sting benefits, to Rob's battle with a mid-race ankle injury, we’ve got stories that blend humor with the grit of ultra running. The oppressive heat and humidity only ramped up the difficulty, making the race a true test of endurance and spirit. Tune in for some laughs, lessons, and a few unexpected takeaways from this demanding course.

But the journey doesn’t stop there. We also dissect our tumultuous UTMB race day, sharing the hard-hitting reality of cramping and hydration slip-ups that led to a DNF. We break down the critical errors, like neglecting electrolyte supplies, and discuss the impact of high humidity on performance. Amid our candid reflections, we’ll critique the post-race amenities and highlight the stunning, albeit poorly organized, course. Plus, get the scoop on Camille’s Spartathlon saga and enjoy a sneak peek of our upcoming chat with Dan, the race director of the Laurel Highlands Fall Classic. And don’t miss the light-hearted moments, including a Blink-182 joke courtesy of Jason’s daughter.

Ever wondered what it takes to conquer one of the toughest ultra-endurance challenges out there? We're thrilled to bring you an inspiring conversation with ultra runner DJ Fox along with his pacer, Joshua Ried. DJ set the fastest known time (FKT) on the Colorado Trail, spanning 490 miles with 86,000 feet of elevation gain in just 7 days, 4 hours, and 37 minutes.

In this episode, you'll gain insights into the meticulous preparation required for such an immense challenge. DJ and Joshua share their rigorous training regimen, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and mental toughness. The transition from obstacle course racing to tackling a 500-mile trail run underscores the need for time on feet and relentless drive. This is an episode packed with inspiration, grit, and the raw human spirit behind an ultra-endurance quest.