Trail Runner Nation

EP 773: Why We Choose to Suffer (And Love It)

19 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we are joined again by coach Adam Kimble to explore the book, The Sweet Spot: The Pleasures of Suffering and the Search for Meaning b...

EP 772: Simple Running. Powerful Living

13 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we are joined by Michael Miller to discuss his book Run Like a Rarámuri : Stories and Wisdoms from the Sierra Tarahumara and Runnin...

EP 771: Aging as an Athlete: Mindset, Longevity, and the Love of Running

05 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Trail Runner Nation's Aging as an Athlete series, along with Krissy Moehl, we welcome elite ultrarunner and therapist Darcy Piceu ...

EP 770: Racing the Clock: Life at the Cutoff

27 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we sit down with filmmaker Dylan Harris to talk about his powerful new film, The Cut-Off. Instead of following...

EP 769: Is Your Watch Lying? The Truth About VO₂ Max and Real Fitness

20 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we are joined by Cliff Pittman, Coaching Development Director for CTS.  We take a practical look at VO₂ max and what it really mea...

EP 768: Is Muscle the Missing Piece in Your Training?

12 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Alex Hutchinson rejoins Trail Runner Nation discuss why muscle is the real engine behind endurance, performance, and long-term health...

EP 767: Duct Tape Is Dead: Modern Foot Care for Long Miles

06 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Discover proven strategies to prevent foot issues and optimize your performance in ultra running. Dr. Tanya Olson joins us to share expert insights on...

EP 766: Running Advice Under Fire - A Point-Counterpoint Debate

30 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

This episode brings back Trail Runner Nation's Point–Counterpoint format, with coaches Ian Sharman, Annie Hughes, Jeff Browning, and Trish Ahrends s...

EP 765: Aging as an Athlete - Quinn Brett on Redefining Life as an Athlete After Injury

23 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this powerful episode, we sit down with our special co-host, Krissy Moehl, and with climber, endurance athlete, and paraplegic adventurer Quinn Br...

EP 764: From Fringe to Mainstream: The State of Trail Running in 2026

16 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

What happens when a once-fringe sport starts to go mainstream — and can it grow without losing its soul? In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we...

EP 763: The Most Underrated Training Skill: Consistency

09 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

This is a previously recorded episode of Trail Runner Nation, but its message remains just as relevant today. In this conversation, we're joined by Ad...

EP 762: From Webster to Singletrack: The Trail Runner Dictionary Game

01 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Today's episode is all about having some fun on the trail. We are joined by Andy Jones-Wilkins and Katie Asmuth, and we're playing the classic "dictio...

EP 761: Take This 33-Question Test to See What Kind of Trail Runner You Really Are

26 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this lighthearted, game-show–style episode, we try and answer the age-old question: Am I really a trail runner? Audience participation is a must ...

EP 760: No Bib, No Finish Line: Iron Mike Wardian's Wildest Running Adventures

19 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Iron Mike Wardian returns to Trail Runner Nation for a conversation that celebrates running beyond race bibs and finish lines. From running across the...

EP 759:: Stop Running Yourself Into the Death March (Do This Instead)

12 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore one of the most overlooked performance tools in ultrarunning: not running. Coach and elite ultrarunner Ian Sharman explain...

EP 758: Ox Blood to Aid Stations: The Wild Evolution of Endurance Nutrition

05 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we talk with exercise scientist Dr. Nick Tiller, author of the Ultrarunning Magazine article "Protein While Racing, Training Runs to ...

EP 757: Thanksgiving on the Trails: Entrees, Sides & Sweet Treats of Running

26 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Today we're cooking up something a little different—a Trail Runner Nation–style feast inspired by the U.S. holiday of Thanksgiving. Just like fami...

EP 756: Aging as an Athlete- Smarter, Stronger, Longer

21 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this seventh installment of Aging as an Athlete series, Scott, Don, and Krissy sit down with elite ultrarunner and longtime coach Ian Sharman to e...

EP 755: The Breakthroughs Hiding in Plain Sight

12 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we sit down with the new book Running Breakthroughs author Floris Gierman to explore what truly drives joy, consistency, and long-ter...

EP 754: Aging as an Athlete: The Power of Adaptation

06 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What does it take to keep running strong from your teens into your 90s? In this new episode of The Aging Athlete series, Krissy Moehl co-hosts as we...

EP 753: Point–Counterpoint: Trail Truths Debated

30 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this "Point–Counterpoint" episode, we are joined by coaches from two teams—Sharman Ultra (Ian Sharman & Ellie Greenwood) and Giddy Up Ultra (Je...

EP 752: Train Slow, Race Fast and Train Your Brain: Maffetone Returns

24 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Dr. Phil Maffetone returns to revisit the MAF Method—training by low heart rate (≈180 minus age)—with Don sharing how it saved his a 100-mile ra...

EP 751: "It IS Your Day" with The Queen, Meghan Canfield

16 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever heard a runner drop out of a race and say, "It just wasn't my day"? Well, Meghan Canfield—known to the trail world as The Queen—has ...

EP 750: Aging Athlete- How to Fuel Your Runs at Different Ages

10 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What does it take to keep running strong from your teens into your 90s? In this sixth episode of The Aging Athlete series, Krissy Moehl co-hosts as w...

EP 749: The Pendulum of Running-Lessons from 19 Episodes with Dr. Mark Cucuzzella

02 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Dr. Mark Cucuzzella returns for his 19th visit (first joined us in 2012) to unpack the "pendulum swings" in running— from minimalist to maximal sho...

EP 748: Endurance Meets History: Honoring California's First Pioneer Crossing

26 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we welcome back Bob Crowley and Tim Twietmeyer, co-founders of History Expeditions, who've shown us how endurance fitness can unlock ...

EP 747: Aging Athlete - Building Strength with Jeff Browning

19 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What does it take to keep running strong from your teens into your 90s? In this fifth episode of The Aging Athlete series, Krissy Moehl co-hosts as ...

EP 746: Five Biomarkers That Can Affect Your Running

12 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this rerun episode, we dig into the science behind what's happening inside our bodies with registered sports dietitian Ashley Reaver. Ashley highli...

EP 745: The Overlooked Training Hacks That Make You Faster and Healthier

04 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we sit down with Ben Rosario, Head Coach and Executive Director of Hoka Northern Arizona Elite Team, aka Hoka NAZ Elite, to uncover h...

EP 744: Aging Athlete - Mindset and Motivation

29 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What does it take to keep running strong from your teens into your 90s? Welcome to The Aging Athlete, a new Trail Runner Nation mini-series co-hosted...

EP 743: The Birth of the First Sports Nutrition Bar

22 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What if one simple idea could transform the way athletes fuel their bodies? In this episode, we explore the birth of the very first sports nutrition b...

EP 742: Training the Panic Out: How Astronaut-Level Preparation Builds Confidence on the Trail

14 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What do launching into orbit and starting a grueling mountain ultra have in common? More than you might think. In this episode, we draw from Ryan Holi...

EP 741: Trail Runner Nation: A Journey Through Time

08 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we reflect on the evolution of trail running and the Trail Runner Nation podcast over the past 14 years. We re...

EP 740: The Aging Athlete - Hormone Health

31 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What does it mean to be a trail runner in your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s—or even your 70s? How do years of pounding dirt, chasing summits, and chasing goal...

EP 739: Effortless Efficiency: Biomechanics in Running

18 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What if the key to becoming a stronger, more resilient runner isn't about pushing harder, but moving smarter? In this episode, we're joined by Samuel...

EP 738: The Comfort Crisis - Reclaiming Happiness

18 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Over two years ago, we introduced the concept of Misogi—doing something so challenging it changes you—through Michael Easter's book The Comfort C...

EP 737: Cutting Through the BS

10 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join us as we have an insightful conversation with renowned coach Ian Sharman. We discuss how to navigate the world of running advice with a critical ...

EP 736: Unlocking Endurance from the Neck Up

02 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, cognitive neuroscientist and endurance athlete Dr. Scott Frey reveals how brain training can unlock new levels...

EP 735: The Aging Athlete-Exercise Physiology

27 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What does it mean to be a trail runner in your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s—or even your 70s? How do years of pounding dirt, chasing summits, and chasing goal...

EP 734: TRN Audio Magazine: The Dirt, The Grit, The Glory

19 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Can you get too much AJW?  This episode might answer that question.  After last week's Western States 100 Preview and Prognostication, Andy rejoins ...

EP 733: 2025 Western States 100 Preview and Prognostications

13 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this annual episode, we talk about the 2025 Western States 100 with AJW and Katie Asmuth. We talk about the race's rich history, the evolving compe...

EP 732: The Journey Back: Runners After Joint Replacement

05 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the challenges and possibilities of running after joint replacement. Joined by athletes Magda Boulet and Bob Crowley, and ...

EP 731: Ice, Mind, Body - The Ice Bath Effect

30 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Can three minutes in freezing water reduce inflammation, boost testosterone, and improve your relationships? We talk with Dr. Thomas Seager, co-founde...

EP 730: The Aging Athlete Series - Introduction

22 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What does it mean to be a trail runner in your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s—or even your 70s? How do years of pounding dirt, chasing summits, and chasing goal...

EP 729: The Golden Retriever Mindset - Lesson's from a 22 Year-old

15 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

At just 22 years old, Nicholas Steel is attempting to become the youngest person to complete sixteen 100-mile races in a single year—all while worki...

EP 728: Be Kind to Yourself-Secret Weapon at Arizona's Monster 300

08 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, ultra-endurance athlete Lucja Leonard recounts her transformative experience running the Arizona Monster 300, a race that pushed her ...

EP 727: Endurance Beyond the Finish Line

01 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we explore the gritty world of endurance sports with ultrarunner and guest Shannon Hogan, author of The Unfo...

EP 726: Ultrarunning's Past Was Wilder Than You Think

24 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

To really understand who we are as a running community—What drives us, what connects us, and why we keep pushing our limits, we have to look back. ...

EP 725: What Every Young Athlete—and Parent—Should Know About Nutrition

15 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

We all know that nutrition is essential for peak performance—but for young athletes, it's so much more than just fuel. In this episode, we're joined...

EP 724: Why Most Athletes Get Carbs Wrong

10 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Are you fueling your endurance training the right way—or are outdated carb myths holding you back? In this episode, we're joined by sports dietitian...

EP 723: The Power of Discomfort

03 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What if we told you that putting yourself in controlled, uncomfortable situations—like ice baths, fasting, or extreme endurance events—could make ...

EP 722: The Explorer's Gene: Understanding Our Drive for Adventure

26 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What drives us to venture into the unknown—even when there's no finish line or prize at the end? In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we sit down...

EP 721: Conquering 200-Mile+ Races- Part 2

21 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This is Part 2 of a two-part series on running 200-mile races that we started last episode. We are joined again by coaches Ian Sharman and 200-mile s...

EP 720: Conquering 200-Mile+ Races- Part 1

13 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we are joined by coaches Ian Sharman and 200-mile specialist Annie Hughes to explore the rising popularity of ...

EP 719: What Does it Mean to Master the Art of Running?

05 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

"The goal is just supposed to stretch you further." In this episode, author and coach Matt Fitzgerald, discusses his new book launching on March 25 'C...

EP 718: Bodily Fluids and Other Trail Etiquette You Need to Know

27 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever wondered what the unspoken rules of trail running are? In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we break down some of the unspoken etique...

EP 717: Ultimate Endurance Meets Community Spirit at Arrowhead 135

20 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What is the toughest race in the world?   According to The Nxorth, the Arrowhead 135 is a strong contender. With an average finish rate below 50%, R...

EP 716: From Setback to Comeback: Running Through Adversity

14 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Endurance athlete, coach, nutritionist and best-selling author Matt Fitzgerald rejoins the podcast to share his journey of resilience and recovery af...

EP 715: How Do the Best Runners Overcome Mental Roadblocks?

07 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Are you ready to take your endurance sports mindset to the next level? In this episode we explore the book, Unbeatable Mind: Forge Resiliency and Men...

EP 714: The Life-Changing Decision to Run

30 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we invite you to be the guest as we discuss the transformative power of running and highlight its profound imp...

EP 713: Can Suffering Lead to Hope and Gratitude?

23 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

James Lawrence, the Iron Cowboy, joins The Nation to talk about his extraordinary journey in endurance sports, including his world-record-setting Iron...

EP 712: Community, Connection, and the Joy of Running

16 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

There is an unwritten code of ethics promoting health, respect, and community support. in trail running.  It has existed for longer than any of us.  ...

EP 711: From Pinpricks to Performance: Ask the Coaches

08 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this  Ask the Coaches episode, three coaches from Sharman Ultra Coaching, Ian Sharman, Dr. Matt Laye, and Jackson Brill  bring topics that they r...

EP 710: Brilliant or B.S.

02 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we play a game of "brilliant" or "bullshit" based on ten essential skills or knowledge areas that our "guest", Chat GPT, feels that e...

EP 709: Fact or Fiction? Debunking Myths About Fitness, Nutrition, and Endurance

26 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

There are so many new studies and scientific discoveries that it's tough for us runners to discern what is fact and what is fiction.  That's why we e...

EP 708: Downhill Dynamics - The Joy of Descents

15 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever wondered if you're leaving free speed on the trail every time you hit a downhill? Today, we'll show you how mastering the art of downhil...

EP 707: Body Image, Fueling, and the Diet Lies Athletes Believe

12 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Are the diet myths you've believed holding you back from peak performance, or could eating more actually be the key to running stronger and feeling be...

EP 706: Running Through Adversity to Find Joy

05 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Sometimes, life's greatest challenges lead to its most meaningful moments and change our lives. Dion Leonard joins The Nation to tell one of his stori...

EP 705: Packing Smart: The Do's and Don'ts of Ultra Drop Bags

29 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Drop bags are a crucial tool for ultra runners, serving as lifelines that ensure access to essential items like hydration, nutrition, and comfort gear...

EP 704: Running to the Beat - Musicians Who Endure

21 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

What happens when the chaos of touring musicianship meets the grit of ultra-running? In this inspiring episode, we welcome ultra runners, musicians, a...

EP 703: Are You Making This Common Training Mistake?

15 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Should we consider slowing down to Zone 1 for most of our training?  Returning guest and Brad Kearns, co-author of Born to Walk: The Broken Promises...

EP 702: Can You Do Toe Yoga?

07 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

How does the foot arch function in running? How does the big toe play a crucial role in foot health and running efficiency? Dr. Matthew Silver returns...

EP 701: Super Shoes and Smart Stretches—What Runners Need to Know

31 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Returning guest and renowned physical therapist Jay Dicharry returns to unravel the truths and myths around stretching, mobility, and shoe selection f...

EP 700: Trick or Treat

24 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

For our 700th episode, we convinced our good friend Andy Jones-Wilkins to take some time off from recording his podcast, Crack A Brew with AJW, and hi...

EP 699: The Power of Will to Overcome Obstacles

17 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

"True will is quiet humility, resilience, and flexibility; the other kind of will is weakness disguised by bluster and ambition." - Ryan Holiday This ...

EP 698: Fueling for Busy Runners- How to Eat Well, Stay Healthy, and Manage Your Time

10 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the relationship between nutrition and running with registered dietitian Jason Levee. We cover meal prep strategies, the i...

EP 697: Breaking Records: The New Era of Ultra Running

04 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Why are there so many fast finish times this year?  How can you get faster? In this episode, we explore the recent trend of record-breaking performan...

EP 696: The Power of Action

26 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

"For us is the life of action….let us rather run the risk of wearing out than rusting out." Theodore Roosevelt This is the 2 episode of a 3-part ser...

EP 695: The Science of Stress- Managing Physical, Mental, and Biochemical Pressure

19 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Phil Maffetone takes a comprehensive look at stress management, breaking it down into physical, biochemical, and mental/emotional...

EP 694: The Intersection of Trail Running, Backpacking and Fastpacking

10 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

What happens when a love for the outdoors leads to launching an outdoor gear company and then running your first ultra-marathon? In this episode of Tr...

EP 693: Perception: Turning Obstacles into Opportunities

05 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this first episode of a 3-part series, we dive into Ryan Holiday's powerful book, The Obstacle is the Way: The Ancient Art of Turning Adversity to...

EP 692: Built to Run- Mastering Running Form and Mobility

29 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever faced the frustration of persistent running injuries that keep you from enjoying running on the trails? In this episode, We sit down wit...

EP 691: Breaking Records at Leadville: A 100-Mile Journey

22 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Coach David Roche delves into his record-breaking performance at the 2024 Leadville 100, sharing insights into his unique approach to...

EP 690:Trail Classics: 50 North American Trails You Must Try

15 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Ricky Gates discusses his latest project, The Field Guide to Classic Trails in North America Inspired by the book '50 Classic Climbs of North America...

EP 689: Finding Joy in the Process: Lessons from a 100-Mile Race

08 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Nation friend and renowned ultra runner Krissy Moehl talks about her recent race at the High Lonesome 100. Krissy shares her experien...

EP 688: The Inspirational 'Why' Behind a Record FKT

31 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Emily Halnon joins The Nation this week. She is a trail runner and mountain athlete from Eugene, Oregon. Emily shares her awe-inspiring journey of set...

EP 687: Rewire Your Running for Stability, Strength & Speed

24 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this Trail Runner Nation podcast episode, Jay Dicharry talks about the newly updated edition of his book "Running Rewired," offering valuable insig...

EP 686: Unlock the Secrets to Long-Term Running Success

18 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Coach Ian Sharman talks about the art and strategy of long-term planning in trail running, emphasizing patience and consistency for s...

EP 685: Running in Circles - Backyard Ultras

10 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Join ultra runners Jennifer Russo and Megan Eckert to discuss backyard ultras, a niche of ultra trail running. They explain that backyard ultras are l...

EP 684: Hayden Hawkes Embracing Gratitude, A New Approach to Running Success

04 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we sit down with the accomplished ultramarathoner, Hayden Hawks. Hayden shares his remarkable journey of overcoming a knee injury in ...

EP 683: Sh!t You Don't Do on the Trail - Western States Edition

26 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

We recently replayed an episode from 2017 called, "Sh!t You Don't Do on the Trail" with Tim Twietmeyer and Bob Crowley.   We had so much fun walking ...

EP 682: 2024 Western States 100 Prognostications

20 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Each year at this time, Andy Jones-Wilkins joins The Nation each year to discuss the Western States 100-mile Endurance Run. This is the 11th year that...

EP 681: Stories From Western States 100

14 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Leading up to the 2024 Western States 100 Endurance Race, ultra legends Ellie Greenwood and Ian Sharman share their incredible experiences at the West...

EP 680: Breaking Barriers in Women's Running

07 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

We are joined by Maggie Mertens, the author of "Better Faster Farther: How Running Changed Everything We Know About Women," which challenges long-held...

EP 679: Training Variety for Peak Performance

30 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss "Adaptation and Diversity in Training" with our adventurous guests Emma Cook-Clarke and Adam Campbell. Both elite athletes...

EP 678: Flashback Episode - Sh#@ You Don't Do On the Trail

23 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we take a nostalgic look back at an episode from 2017 with trail veterans Bob Crowley and Tim Twietmeyer. We revisit "Sh#@ You Don't...

EP 677: No One Gets There Alone

16 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Dr. Rob Bell discusses his book 'No One Gets There Alone' and emphasizes the importance of relationships and connectivity in achieving personal and pr...

EP 676: Runners' Rescue: The Trail Triage Toolkit

10 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

What if there was a way to instantly diagnose and address running issues right on the trail? In this episode, we talk about the new Trail Triage app. ...

EP 675: Balancing Act - Running and Living

02 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In today's episode of the Trail Runner Nation podcast, we are thrilled to host elite Canadian trail runners Adam Campbell and Emma Cook-Clarke. They w...

EP 674: Gut Check: Managing GI Distress

25 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Today, we're excited to have a returning guest, Dr. Stefanie Flippin. Not only is Stefanie a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon with a private pra...