Singletrack

After setting a course record at 2025 Javelina Jundred, Tara Dower joins the Singletrack Podcast to talk about the strategy behind perhaps her biggest win yet — and how she’s using it to fuel a Western States comeback in 2026.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20)

Additional Links:

• Follow Tara on Instagram, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

Support the show

Finn Melanson and Brett Hornig share their observations from all the racing action at yesterday’s Javelina Jundred. They discuss Tara Dower’s massive course-record performance, how all three men’s podium finishers — Will Murray, David Roche, and Canyon Woodward — shattered the previous marks, and what it all means for the Western States 100 Golden Ticket Series. They also analyze this year’s livestream numbers, highlight their favorite racing moments, and explore how the 2025 edition of Javelina might redefine what’s possible on the desert course.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20)

Additional Links:

• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

Support the show

Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at this year’s Javelina Jundred.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20)

Additional Links:

• Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, Twitter
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

Support the show

Trail running is growing fast — but is the money for athlete deals keeping up? In this episode, athlete agent Kelly Newlon returns to the show to unpack the latest economics behind athlete-brand partnerships in 2025. From $10K rookie contracts to six-figure base deals, Kelly breaks down who’s getting paid, why it’s finally improving for pros, and which brands and races hold the most weight in negotiations.

We cover:

• How athlete compensation has shifted in the last two years
• What brands actually value — and why some athletes still get left out
• The rise of non-endemic deals (cars, banks, healthcare)

If you’ve always been curious about what “contract season” really looks like in trail running, this is a great look inside.

Additional Episodes:

• #355 - Tara Dower Signs Ground-Breaking Deal with Altra (Our Analysis)
• #135 - Kelly Newlon | Real Athlete Diets, Crewing FKT Projects, Athlete Sponsorship Thoughts

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website to get 20% off your next order (https://partners.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20)

Events:

• Register for the 2026 Buffalo Run
• Register for 2026 Twisted Fork Trail Festival

Additional Links:

• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon
• Follow Kelly on Instagram, Website, LinkedIn

Support the show

Brett Hornig and Jeff Colt return to the show, sharing insights from the World Trail Championships in Canfranc, highlights from the inaugural year at The Mammoth, and their favorite internet finds of the week.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Coaching
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

Earlier this month, Jeff Garmire set a new self-supported fastest known time (FKT) on the Appalachian Trail: 45 days, 8 hours, 37 minutes. He shaved more than three hours off Joe McConaughy’s 2017 mark—long regarded as one of the most impressive endurance feats in ultrarunning.

With that context, I was excited to have Jeff on the podcast to unpack the experience. We cover the essentials—gear, logistics, nutrition, training—but also go deeper. Jeff shares his background and motivations, and we explore the financial and sponsorship side of attempting something that requires stepping away from the rest of your life for nearly seven weeks.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (bit.ly/3JVNIbL) to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Jeff on Instagram, Podcast, Trevor Project
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

In this edition of the Long Run Archives, we talk about the rise of agents in ultra-trail running, our takeaways from UTMB week, the increasing allure of the fastest known time scene, our dream co-hosts on this show, and some cool tech that has arrived at Singletrack HQ (spoiler alert: Tymewear).

Chapters

• 00:00 The Role of Agents in Athletics
• 20:40 The Mahoosuc Traverse, personal projects vs racing
• 38:38 UTMB Highlights and Stats
• 01:07:58 The Appalachian Trail 
• 01:14:04 Influences and Inspirations in Ultra Running
  
  

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

Tom Evans joins the show fresh off his victory at the 2025 UTMB.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

Ruth Croft joins the show fresh off her victory at the 2025 UTMB. With this win, she completed the trifecta of finals victories (adding to her titles at CCC and OCC). In this conversation, we briefly reflect on the race but also take some time to explore her background and the transformative decisions she’s made to reach this moment.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Ruth on Instagram, Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

Hillary Gerardi joins us in our Chamonix studio during UTMB week for a wide-ranging conversation. We talk about her skyrunning career, setting a FKT on Mont Blanc, the modern history of the Chamonix valley, differences between French and American culture, and the risks, uncertainties, and small windows of opportunity that define some of her most memorable mountain projects.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Hillary on Instagram, Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

Anton Krupicka returns to the show in person at our Chamonix studio, where we dive into his history with UTMB, his new role at La Sportiva, skyrunning, the Grand Teton, and the increasing appeal of backyard endurance projects.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Anton on Instagram, Strava, Substack
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

Michael Versteeg is racing UTMB on Friday. We hosted him for a long-form conversation at our Chamonix studio and somehow didn’t spend much time talking about that fact at all. Instead, we covered topics like public lands, the Barkley Marathons, building houses, his deep connection to Cocodona, following curiosity wherever it leads, and the importance of checking obsession. Enjoy!

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Michael on Instagram, Blog
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

Fresh off a transformative victory at Western States earlier this summer, Abby Hall returns to the show ahead of UTMB. We discuss her decision to take on the sport's de facto 100-mile world championship, the afterglow winning one of ultrarunning's biggest races, her relentless pursuit of excellence at the sharp end of competition, and - of course - the importance of curating the perfect playlist for the journey around the rooftop of Europe.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Abby on Instagram, Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

Lucy Bartholomew has been a model of consistency at UTMB in recent years, steadily raising her game as women’s ultrarunning enters a new era of performance. In this conversation, we cover a wide range of topics—from one of the most exciting 100-milers in her backyard (the GPT100), to her experience crewing Ryan Sandes at the Cocodona 250, to Salomon’s High Performance System, and her own process for chasing the next level in Chamonix.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Lucy on Instagram, Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

Max Jolliffe is in Chamonix—and that was all the excuse we needed to sit down for a chat at our Chamonix studio. In this conversation, we reflect on our shared experiences at the Cocodona 250, look ahead to our reunion at The Mammoth next month, talk about playing the content game, and discuss the outlook for a professional career in ultrarunning.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Max on Instagram, Youtube, and Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

For the first time since 2017, Katie Schide will not be racing of the UTMB World Series final events. Instead, she's set to represent Team USA at the Long Trail World Championships in Canfranc, Spain next month. It felt like the perfect moment to catch up. In this wide-ranging conversation, we talk about her recent results at Hardrock and Sierre-Zinal, her history with stage racing, the prospect of elite-only race fields, her career progression, and the unique allure of Vermont's Long Trail. 

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Katie on Instagram and Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

Ben Dhiman returns to the show ahead of ultra-trail running's de facto 100 mile championship, Ultra-Trail Du Mont Blanc (UTMB). Fresh off a course record at Lavredo and an impressive multi-year stretch in the sport, he arrives in Chamonix as one of the most intriguing contenders in the field. In this conversation, we dive into his nomadic background, training philosophy, and whether his third attempt at UTMB will finally be the breakthrough on the sport's biggest stage.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Ben on Instagram, Substack, and Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

Tom Evans returns to the show for a wide-ranging conversation on his return to Ultra-Trail Du Mont Blanc (UTMB), the joys of fatherhood, his favorite events on the UK trail running circuit, and the long-term development of ultrarunning as a professional sport. 

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Tom on Instagram, Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

Dani Moreno returns to the show ahead of the 2025 CCC, taking place next Friday in Chamonix, France. We discuss her philosophy of boldness, the landmark performances that could push the sport forward, and the mentality required to line up at high-caliber races in the UTMB World Series.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Dani on Instagram, Strava, SubHub
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

In this clip from the latest edition of the Long Run Archives on the Singletrack Podcast, Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Jeff Colt discuss new angles on races like Western States and Hardrock, "course record pace", and a new media opportunity in the works for pro ultrarunners.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Coaching
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

In this clip from the latest edition of the Long Run Archives on the Singletrack Podcast, Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Jeff Colt discuss a fascinating hypothetical scenario: If you were starting a brand-new ultrarunning company (whether shoes, gear, nutrition, or anything else), and every athlete in the market was a free agent, which four would you prioritize adding to your team, and why? 

The trio explores the spectrum from pure performance athletes to influential figures—and the hybrids who bridge both worlds—as they build their dream rosters featuring familiar names such as Courtney Dauwalter, Katie Schide, Lucy Bartholomew, Jamil Coury, and Billy Yang. 

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Coaching
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

Andrew Drummond returns to the Singletrack Podcast, this time to recount his latest adventure: setting a Fastest Known Time on the White Mountains Direttissima, one of New England's iconic multi-day routes. 

We explore the aesthetics of the route, what inspired him to return after his previous attempts in 2016 and 2024, his strategies around gear, nutrition, rest, and the execution that led to his new record. 

Additionally, we discuss the New England trail running scene, John Kelly's recent Appalachian Trail activity, the stylistic differences between supported and unsupported FKTs, and the segment challenges sponsored by Run The Whites. 

It's always great catching up with Andrew—hope you enjoy the conversation!

Timestamps:

• 00:00 Reconnecting After Three Years
• 09:06 White Mountains Direttissima
• 20:48 Gear Evolution and Preparation for the Route
• 45:30 Mental and Physical Challenges of Multi-Day Hiking
• 52:29 Personality Types in Multi-Day Adventures
• 01:01:40 Training for Multi-Day Efforts
• 01:14:46 Kilian Jornet's Potential Impact on the Northeast
• 01:17:29 Shifts in FKT Strategies on the Appalachian Trail
• 01:41:21 Underappreciated Routes in the White Mountains

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website (https://www.gorewear.com/) to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Andrew on Instagram, YouTube, White Mountain Ski Co
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

Support the show

Topher Gaylord is the newly appointed President of the Western States Endurance Run—arguably the most iconic ultramarathon in the world. A seven-time WSER finisher, Topher brings decades of experience in global outdoor industry leadership and a deep well of insight from more than 75 ultramarathons run across the globe.

In this conversation, we discuss:

– The direction he wants to steer Western States in
– His views on the Golden Ticket Series and how it’s evolving
– How he processed recent controversies with UTMB
– The tension between commercialization and community in trail running
– What excites him most about the future of the sport

We also talk about his upcoming keynote at TrailCon and how he plans to honor the rich legacy of WSER while preparing it for what’s next.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, Twitter
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

Support the show

In this live pre-race episode of the Singletrack Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Scott Jurek back to the show—recorded in-person from our studio in Olympic Valley, CA, just days before the 2025 Western States 100.

For many, Scott needs no introduction. A seven-time winner of Western States, bestselling author, and true icon of the sport, his impact on trail and ultrarunning is undeniable. But this conversation goes far beyond race results and podiums.

We explore the evolution of the Western States 100, how the atmosphere, competition, and culture of the race have changed since his last win here in 2005, and what he notices most when returning to the event now as a mentor, supporter, and observer.

Scott also opens up about his day-to-day life in the sport today—how he stays involved, what his professional pursuits look like post-competition, and what’s still fueling his fire. Plus, we revisit some of the emotional terrain we covered in our 2024 conversation: athletic identity, the process of letting go, and how to maintain joy and purpose in the sport long after your competitive peak.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

Support the show

Jim Walmsley returns to the Singletrack Podcast for a live, in-person conversation from our Olympic Valley, CA studio during Western States week—only this time, he’s not lining up to race.

In this exclusive interview, Jim opens up about his decision to bow out of the 2025 Western States 100, offering insight into what went into that choice and where his mind and body are at as one of the most iconic runners in the sport. Whether it’s lingering fatigue, long-term goals, or a strategic reset, Jim shares what fans need to know.

We also talk about the future: Will he be back at Western States in 2026 or beyond? What would it take to pull him back to the start line in Olympic Valley? And what does he still hope to accomplish at this race?

In the second half of the conversation, Jim brings his deep course knowledge and competitive experience to bear in analyzing this year’s men’s field. Who are the biggest threats? What splits might signal a historic performance? Are we on the cusp of seeing another course record—or perhaps a completely new racing style emerge?

Jim is not just a generational athlete, but also one of the sharpest minds in ultrarunning. This episode is part reflection, part analysis, and part look forward—an essential conversation for anyone invested in the past, present, and future of the Western States 100.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

Support the show

Abby Hall joins the Singletrack Podcast crew in our Auburn, CA, studio to recap her victory at the 2025 Western States 100. 

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, Twitter
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

Support the show

Caleb Olson joins the Singletrack Podcast crew in our Auburn, CA, studio to recap his victory at the 2025 Western States 100. 

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, Twitter
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

Support the show

Des Linden joins us live in Olympic Valley the week before the 2025 Western States 100 for a wide-ranging conversation about her deepening relationship with the trail and ultrarunning scene.

In this episode, we dig into Des's recent adventures off-road — from training with Ruth Croft in New Zealand, to participating in the Western States Training Camp last month, to her pacing duties this year for Joe McConaughy. With each step into the trail world, Des seems to be signaling that this chapter of her career is just getting started.

We talk about whether Des envisions a full pivot to trail running, what she still wants to accomplish on the roads (including any future marathons), and how events like Tunnel Hill 50 in November fit into her overall vision for the next few years.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, Twitter
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

Support the show

We’re live in Olympic Valley, CA for a special Western States Week edition of Long Run Archives, with pro trail runner Hayden Hawks joining regular co-hosts Brett Hornig, Jeff Colt, and Finn Melanson in the Singletrack Podcast studio for a wide-ranging, spirited conversation on the state of trail and ultrarunning, as well as Hayden's status in the sport.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, Twitter
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Marianne Hogan is one of the fiercest and most resilient athletes in the world of ultra-trail running. With podium finishes at both Western States and UTMB, she’s already proven she can perform on the sport’s biggest stages. But that elusive win — that signature victory — still hangs just out of reach.

Live from our Olympic Valley studio in the week leading up to the 2025 Western States 100, Marianne sits down to talk about her ongoing pursuit of greatness in a sport where comebacks are often part of the path.

In this conversation, we explore what it’s going to take for her to not only return to the Western States podium but to stand on top of it. We ask: Is this the year? And if so, what does she think it will take — physically, mentally, and tactically — to win? 

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, Twitter
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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In this special live episode of the Singletrack Podcast, we sit down with Abby Hall in our Olympic Valley studio just days before the 2025 Western States 100. Abby’s path back to the start line of this iconic race is anything but typical—and it’s a story of resilience, determination, and a little bit of fate.

After enduring a traumatic injury in 2023 that sidelined her from the sport she loves, Abby made a courageous return to racing at UTMB last summer before chasing golden tickets across two continents this past spring. We unpack her gritty performances at the Black Canyon 100K and Chianti Ultra Trail, and how an unexpected turn of events ultimately secured her spot on this year’s Western States start line.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, Twitter
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at this year’s women's field at the Western States 100. With big names like Katie Schide (2024 Champion) and Courtney Dauwalter (2023 Champion) not returning, the fight for the win is wide open. Tune in as we break it all down and get you hyped for race day. 

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, Twitter
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Rod Farvard joins the Singletrack Podcast live from our Olympic Valley, CA studio during Western States race week to discuss what it really takes to compete at the highest level in trail and ultrarunning—and why he may be the biggest threat to the Western States crown in 2025.

In 2024, Rod turned heads by going toe-to-toe with one of the sport’s greatest athletes, Jim Walmsley, at the Western States 100. His fearless front-running and relentless pace put him on the radar of fans and competitors alike. Now, with another year of focused training, refined systems, and added motivation, Rod returns with something to prove—not just that he belongs, but that he’s ready to win.

In this conversation, we dive deep into the mindset and lifestyle of a modern pro trail runner. Rod pulls back the curtain on the level of commitment and precision it takes to not just go pro, but stay pro. We explore the pressures of high-stakes racing, the tactical demands of the Western States course, and how he's evolved as an athlete over the past 12 months.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

Support the show

Note - we had audio issues during parts of this episode. Working to resolve those ahead of our remaining shows this week. Thanks for your patience!

Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, Jeff Colt and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at this year’s Cocodona 250.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, Twitter
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Dylan Bowman returns to the Singletrack Podcast for a wide-ranging, in-person conversation from our Olympic Valley, CA studio just days before the 2025 Western States 100.

As the founder of Freetrail and a key figure behind TrailCon, Dylan has spent the last few years shaping the conversation around what trail and ultrarunning can—and should—become. In this episode, we dive deep into the evolution of the sport, how media and storytelling are influencing the culture, and what role platforms like Freetrail play in that transformation.

We also discuss Dylan’s role as a lead broadcaster for the Western States 100 live stream, what goes into bringing the race to a global audience, and how coverage has evolved since his own racing days. With one foot in the athlete camp and the other in media and community-building, Dylan brings a nuanced perspective on where the sport is heading.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Coaching
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

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Sally McRae joins the Singletrack Podcast live from our Olympic Valley, CA studio in the days leading up to the 2025 Western States 100 for a powerful and wide-ranging conversation.

In this episode, we explore what it really takes to go pro in trail and ultrarunning—beyond the podiums, Strava segments, and sponsorship deals. Sally shares the lesser-told story of building a sustainable career in the sport, from early sacrifices to developing her voice as both an athlete and a creator. As one of the few pro runners who has built a loyal community through content, coaching, and entrepreneurship, Sally offers a blueprint for what the modern trail athlete can become.

We also discuss her role at this year’s TrailCon, where she’s set to speak about the evolving intersection between athletic identity and personal branding. Sally is a thoughtful voice on how athletes can—and must—take control of their stories in the social media era, and why the future of trail running belongs as much to storytellers as it does to speedsters.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Coaching
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

Jeff Colt and Mike McMonagle join Finn Melanson on the Singletrack Podcast for another edition of the Long Run Archives. In this episode, the trio reflects on the latest lineup changes at the Western States 100, the current status of Unbreakable 2, the influence of BPN's Backyard Ultra, and the impact of the Wilderness Act.

Timestamps:

• (0:00) - Western States 100 Lineup News
• (32:57) - High Mileage Training Discussion
• (46:14) - Unbreakable 2 Discussion
• (70:04) - BPN Backyard Ultra
• (86:31) - Revisiting Wilderness Act Discussion
  
  

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Mike on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

Joey Berriatua joins Finn Melanson on the Singletrack Podcast to reflect on his time with Tinman Elite, share his journey through the professional running scene, and explore why trail running might be his future path.

Related Episodes:

• #26 (Sam Parsons | How To Build A Trail Running Team) 
• #289 (Sam Parsons | The Trials and Tribulations of Pro Running

Timestamps:

• 01:00 Tinman Elite Reflections
• 24:02 Financial Realities of Professional Running
• 46:35 The Importance of Training Environment
• 56:26 Building Community in Professional Running
• 01:08:49 The Role of Media in Running
• 01:14:32 Trail Running Interests, Balancing Steeplechase Goals
  
  

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Joey on Instagram, Strava, Substack
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

Brett Hornig and Mike McMonagle join Finn Melanson on the Singletrack Podcast for another edition of the Long Run Archives. In this episode, the trio reflects on a retroactive controversy surrounding a runner's time penalty (instead of DQ) at this year's Black Canyon 100K, the majesty of UTMB Snowdonia, the sustainability of pro ultrarunning, and whether there will be a "next venue" for the Mike-Finn-Brett ultra rivalry.

Timestamps:

• 01:14 Black Canyon 100K Controversy
• 44:16 Is UTMB Snowdonia cool?
• 01:11:54 Burnout in Professional Running
• 02:01:44 Rivalries and Future Challenges in Ultra Running
  
  

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Mike on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Coaching
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

Brett Hornig and Jeff Colt join Finn Melanson on the Singletrack Podcast for another edition of the Long Run Archives. In this episode, the trio reflects on the evolving media landscape in ultrarunning, using the wildly popular Cocodona 250 as a case study to examine its impact on race organizers, athletes, and fans. They also share personal takeaways and recap the key storylines from this year’s event. Finally, the conversation explores the (hypothetical) emergence of teams built specifically to win marquee races, speculates on the future of ultrarunning events, and wraps up with a discussion of interesting naming trends within the sport.

Timestamps:

• 01:21 Cocodona 250: A Fan's Perspective
• 05:27 The Impact of Media on Ultra Running
• 30:21 Future of Cocodona and Elite Participation
• 38:56 Influence of Cam Hanes
• 41:56 Pacing Dynamics in Ultra Running
• 57:41 Crew Dynamics and Fairness in Racing
• 01:08:35 Project Cocodona and The Concept of Brand-Funded Teams
• 01:31:15 The Future of Ultra Running Events, Innovative Relay Concepts in Ultra Running
• 01:35:49 Exploring Name Trends in Ultra Running
• 01:46:44 Marketing Strategies for Trail Running Regions
  
  
  

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Coaching
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

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Tom Hooper joins the show to publicly announce and analyze the men's and women's long trail teams that will represent the USA at the World Trail Championships in Canfranc, Spain, this September.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 Introduction and Background
• 02:09 Selection Race Controversies, The Future of Selection Races
• 08:05 Team Composition: Women's Team Overview
• 12:16 Team Composition: Men's Team Overview
• 16:39 Building a Strong Team
• 19:47 Advice for Future Athletes, Future Race Selection Process

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Team USA 
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at this year’s Cocodona 250.

Timestamps:

• (0:00) - Cocodona 250 hype, general conversation
• (27:58) - Course analysis
• (45:41) - Women's field preview
• (72:56) - Men's field preview

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, Twitter
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

Support the show

This is a crossover podcast from the Conversational Pace YouTube channel (hosted by my good friend, Brett Hornig) in which we talk about my gear, nutrition, and overall strategy for the 2025 Cocodona 250.

Timestamps:

• 0:00 Intro
• 2:21 Gear from 2024 you won’t be using in 2025
• 6:58 Starting pack of choice
• 13:04 Starting shoe of choice
• 18:09 Gaiters or no gaiters?
• 19:34 Need to be fit enough to play the game
• 22:00 What makes the first day interesting
• 24:13 Day two
• 25:36 Lighting choices
• 27:33 Day two shoes
• 33:24 Poles
• 35:08 Significant mid-race gear pivots from last year
• 40:28 Final miles of the course
• 47:52 The 2025 Cocodona crew

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Brett Hornig and Leah Yingling return to the Singletrack Podcast to preview the final golden ticket chase for the 2025 Western States 100 at this weekend’s Canyons 100K in Auburn, CA.

Six golden tickets are up for grabs, with standout athletes like Marianne Hogan, Anthony Costales, Hannes Namberger, Katie Asmuth, and Erin Clark adding serious depth to the competition.

They discuss recent administrative updates surrounding the event—including its new status as a "super" golden ticket race, the lack of a live stream, and its recently revoked designation as the Americas Major in the UTMB World Series. 

They also break down how the course and weather could impact the outcome before diving into the women’s and men’s fields and sharing their podium picks and golden ticket predictions.

*Note - we recorded this episode 9 days before the race, so we apologize in advance for not being able to factor last-minute entrants between then and now into our analysis and predictions.

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, Twitter
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

Support the show

Brett Hornig and Jeff Colt return to the Singletrack Podcast for another edition of the Long Run Archives.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 Gorge Waterfalls Race Recap
• 25:11 Katie Schide and Germain Grangier Move To On
• 39:20 Dez Linden's Transition to Ultra Running
• 46:11 LeBron James and the Five-Minute Mile Debate
• 54:50 Unbreakable 2: The Anticipation of a Sequel
• 01:12:20 The Evolution of Ultra Running and Regional Competitions
• 01:27:28 The Rise of 200-Mile Races and Their Competitiveness

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Coaching
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

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Drew Darby and Rob Fisher join the show to unpack the making of The Finisher, our new documentary chronicling Jasmin Paris’ historic completion of the 2024 Barkley Marathons. We reflect on the creative process, the unique storytelling challenges of the Barkley, and what we learned along the way.

Timestamps:

• (0:00) – Background, intros
• (2:53) – Why Barkley is a media nightmare (and dream)
• (7:03) – Do we have a film? Short form vs long form
• (16:29) – Timelines, pressure, and hindsight
• (30:27) – Barkley surprises from behind the camera
• (36:26) – Crafting the behind-the-scenes narrative
• (42:02) – Untold themes we could’ve explored
• (47:05) – Indie filmmaking: the pros and cons
• (61:36) – Reflections on key characters
• (71:46) – Final takeaways + what’s next

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow Drew on Instagram, LinkedIn, Website
• Follow Rob on LinkedIn, Website
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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John Kelly returns to the Singletrack Podcast, this time to reflect on the 2025 Barkley Marathons and the insights he has gained from the notorious event over the past decade. He then dives into announcing and discussing his plans to attempt the fastest known time on the Appalachian Trail later this year.

Timestamps:

• (0:00) - the difficulty of the 2025 Barkley Marathons course
• (1:36) - the importance of a "pipeline" of Barkley finishers
• (10:13) - the intentions of Lazarus Lake and Carl Laniak
• (14:58) - Barkley is not an orienteering event
• (23:00) - Brett Maune course record reflection
• (25:02) - whether Barkley will still be relevant after the Laz era
• (26:10) - Appalachian Trail FKT announcement
• (33:30) - the difficulty of beating the current fastest known time
• (37:21) - Appalachian Trail influences
• (43:14) - opportunities for improvement in the record approach
• (46:28) - building out support team
• (50:53) - how much it takes to prepare
• (01:04:15) - mental performance strategy
• (01:06:22) - final thoughts

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Follow John on Instagram, Strava, Website
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show

We've got another classic edition of the Long Run Archives on deck, but it's been a minute. We've been fully immersed in all things Barkley Marathons, working hard to bring a few key projects to the finish line.

Two big shoutouts here:

First, The Finisher, a long-form documentary about Jasmin Paris’ three-year journey to become the first female finisher at the Barkley. Huge credit and gratitude to Jules Campanelli, Drew Darby, and Rob Fisher, who worked tirelessly to bring this piece to life. We wrapped it up in great form last week.

Second, we turned around a 2025 Barkley recap vlog to get a window in this year’s event as quickly as possible. That’s now live on the Singletrack YouTube channel, thanks to the excellent work of my friend and colleague, Roo Smith.

Anyways, in this edition of the Long Run Archives, Brett and I chat all things Big Alta, Chianti, Barkley, and Crown King before closing with the best stuff we found on the internet this week. Enjoy!

Timestamps:

• (1:33) - Big Alta
• (25:14) - Chianti
• (41:41) - Barkley Marathons
• (64:06) - Courtney Dauwalter + Crown King
• (76:42) - Best Stuff We Found On The Internet

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• Hypershell
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, Coaching, Patreon
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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In this episode, I'm joined by ultrarunning filmmaker Dylan Harris for a special conversation.

Dylan is the director of an upcoming film called "The Chase", which tells the story of the epic six-way battle for victory at the 2024 Cocodona 250, featuring Jeff Browning, Harry Subertas, Michael Versteeg, Joe McConaughy, Arlen Glick, and Michael McKnight. We've had almost all of these guys on the pod before — some of my favorite characters in the sport — and it was incredible to see how this film captured the unique blend of their personalities and racing styles at a premier multi-day event like Cocodona.

In this conversation, Dylan and I start and finish by discussing the potential for more content like this in the ultrarunning space, which was awesome. But even more so, we spend the bulk of our time diving deep into each of the featured athletes, adding another compelling layer of insight to the film’s storytelling.

Timestamps:

• (2:05) - Unbreakable inspirations, making more films with good storytelling prioritized
• (19:26) - Arlen Glick, Michael Versteeg, Joe McConaughy, Michael McKnight, Jeff Browning reflections
• (85:17) - final thoughts

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• "The Chase" Film Tour
• Dylan Harris
• Inaugural Year, The Long Way Home
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Finn Melanson and Brett Hornig convene for another edition of the Long Run Archives. They talk about business ideas for trail running, the rise of breathing sensors in training and racing contexts, Grand Slam Track, the continued golden ticket chase at Tarawera, the final year of Pine to Palm, and the Barkley Marathons.

Timestamps:

• (0:00) - business ideas for trail running
• (17:43) - breathing sensors
• (35:28) - Grand Slam Track
• (44:45) - Nnormal
• (57:07) - Tarawera
• (68:49) - Pine to Palm
• (87:09) - Barkley Marathons
• (91:02) - records that won't be broken anytime soon

Partners:

• Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made (https://nordarun.com/)
• Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase.
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains (https://raideresearch.com/)

Additional Links:

• UCI Article
• TymeWear
• Beth McKenzie
• Andrew Thompson - Concepts for Success
• Andrew Thompson - Barkley Race Report 
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, Coaching, Patreon
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

Support the show