The Trailhead

UTMB champion. Western States course record threat. Field hockey state champion. Rock doctor. Katie Schide is one of the most accomplished ultrarunners on the planet, and somehow, still one of the most quietly focused. In this episode of The Trailhead, Zoë and Brendan catch up with Katie ahead of her Hardrock 100 debut to talk about how she’s evolved as a competitor, why she used to downplay her ambitions, and what’s changed in both the sport and herself since her eighth-place finish at UTMB back in 2021. They dig into why UTMB might just be the “Goldilocks” race of the sport, how Katie and her partner are spending the summer training in Colorado’s San Juans, and how her background in geology shapes the way she sees, and runs through, the landscape. Katie also shares her take on the term “sub-ultra” and why she thinks we’ve maybe overcomplicated what’s just... running. Plus, Buzz Burrell drops in for a TrailCon Hall of Fame recap, a preview of a potential Katie vs. Courtney showdown at UTMB, and a quick nod to the real MVPs: New England moms on Facebook. This episode is brought to you by SIDAS, makers of high-performance insoles, socks, and footbeds specifically designed for trail running. Whether you're grinding out vert or trying to keep your feet happy past hour six, SIDAS gear is built to handle the unpredictable trail, so your feet don't have to. Check them out at sidas.us and give your feet the upgrade they deserve. And if you’re dreaming of a trail experience that’s less race and more wild adventure, don’t miss our featured adventure: Ruta de los Arrieros, a three-day expedition run through Colombia’s ancient gold routes. Expect big climbs, river crossings, waterfall rappels, jungle villages, and about as much trail magic as you can handle. It’s capped at just 10 runners this year and kicks off September 14, so if you’re into chasing moments instead of PRs, this one’s for you. Registration closes August 20 at UltraSignup.

This week on The Trailhead, we’re joined by the one and only Kofuzi, a self-proclaimed non-elite YouTube runner who’s built a global following by filming marathons, gear reviews, and everyday runs with heart, humor, and a handheld camera. Zoë and Brendan chat with him about the leap from roads to trails, what it really takes to make running content, and why being “exceptionally average” might be a superpower. Whether you’re here for the shoe talk, the trail stoke, or the shared love of goofy long runs, this one’s for you. Follow Kofuzi: YouTube & Instagram: @kofuzi Thanks to Running Warehouse for supporting the Trailhead! Check them out for all your gear, apparel and nutriton needs.

This week on The Trailhead, Zoë and Brendan talk with Abigail West—trail runner, printmaker, and full-time creative who’s showing us what it means to run with purpose. Based in the lush foothills of Southern Appalachia, Abigail blends endurance and artistry, carving out time (and linoleum) to tell stories about wild places, climate, and community. We dive into everything from FKTs in the Georgia mountains to why training for ultras is a terrible match with art fair season. Abigail shares how she captures the emotional texture of landscapes through printmaking, why she’s obsessed with spiderweb-filled singletrack, and what it means to be an entrepreneurial artist-athlete in a world that doesn’t quite know what to do with either. Plus: the problem with art world algorithms, the reality of life in a construction zone, and a full-throated defense of Waffle House. Grab your gravy and your gaiters, this one goes deep. The Trailhead is brought to you by Sidas! The company that supports your feet so that they can support you!

This week on The Trailhead, Zoë and Brendan are joined by performance scientist, coach, and author Steve Magness for a deep dive into the messy, meaningful side of mental toughness. Known for calling BS on outdated notions of grit, Steve shares insights from his latest book, Win the Inside Game, and challenges the idea that suffering is the only path to success. Instead, he makes the case for curiosity, flexibility, and joy as essential ingredients for growth, not just in running, but in life. Together, they explore how identity, external validation, and over-optimization can get in the way of real performance. Steve explains why some of the fastest runners he’s coached only started thriving once they let go of the pressure to be a runner, and how elite athletes like Sara Hall have learned to recalibrate their goals to preserve their peace of mind. He makes the case for ditching the data when it stops serving us, and why meaningful community—not metrics—is what actually makes us better. They also unpack what running has to teach us about feeling deeply, building connection, and making space for the full human experience. Whether it’s the emotional highs of crewing a friend at 2 a.m., the quiet power of a watchless workout, or the absurd relief of pushing an empty jogging stroller just to feel fast again—this conversation is a funny, honest, and refreshing reminder that running doesn’t have to be a grind. It can be recess. And maybe that’s the whole point. Up your hydration game LMNT Lemonade and get a sample pack on us! Register for Run for the Ages 10k!

Check out the Cloud Cap Marathon here! Thanks to Running Warehouse for supporting The Trailhead. Check out their great selection of everything from shoes to sun hoodies, with free two-day shipping. This week on The Trailhead, we're joined by one of the most thoughtful voices in endurance sports writing: Alex Hutchinson. You might know him from his Outside column, Sweat Science, or his bestselling book Endure. But today, we’re talking about his newest work—The Explorer’s Gene—and what it reveals about why we push into the unknown, whether we’re climbing literal mountains or trying the weirdest thing on a menu. In this wide-ranging and unexpectedly hilarious conversation, we dig into: Alex also shares how becoming a parent and moving beyond his “Endurance Science Guy” brand shaped his perspective on curiosity, comfort zones, and career detours. Whether you’re stuck in a rut, planning your next big adventure, or wondering if it's time to zag instead of zig, this one’s for you.

This week on The Trailhead, Zoë and Brendan put coach and writer Mario Fraioli in the hot seat with their burning trail running questions. From “How slow is too slow?” to “When does running become hiking?” we tackle the big, the small, and the existential dilemmas runners face on (and off) the trail. Come for the laughs, stay for Mario's wisdom, and find out why running might just be a Sisyphean project we willingly signed up for. Check out Mario on the Morning Shakeout. This episode is brought to you by Arc'teryx Footwear. The Vertex Speed is your new go-to for mountain adventures. Obsessively designed. Athlete-tested. Trailhead approved. Available online and in Arc'teryx stores. Catch the Trailhead live at Meet the Minotaur Skyrace in June!

What does it mean to live a good life? And can your running practice help you get there? In this episode of The Trailhead, Zoë Rom and Brendan Leonard sit down with Sabrina Little: ultrarunner, philosopher, ethics professor, mom of (soon to be) three, and author of The Examined Run: Why Good People Make Better Runners. Sabrina’s work sits at the fascinating intersection of character development, everyday ethics, and endurance sports. She teaches philosophy at Christopher Newport University and writes a beloved ethics column for iRunFar—and she’s here to explore how running can be a "laboratory for virtue," where our daily choices shape who we become both on and off the trail. Together, we unpack: 🏃‍♂️ This episode is brought to you by our friends at Running Warehouse! Running Warehouse makes it easy to gear up for your next big adventure with thousands of in-depth reviews, expert advice, and fast, free shipping. Whether you're chasing vert in the mountains or keeping it local on your home trails, Running Warehouse has you covered with the best brands and the biggest selection of shoes, apparel, and gear. Before you head out for your next run, stock up at Running Warehouse. Links and Resources: The Examined Run: Why Good People Make Better Runners by Sabrina Little: Buy the bookSabrina’s ethics column for iRunFar@sabrina.little This episode of The Trailhead is hosted by Zoë Rom and Brendan Leonard. It’s part of the UltraSignup Podcast Network. If you loved this conversation, share it with your trail crew, leave us a review, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an adventure. Follow the show at @trailheadpod, or drop us a line at trailhead@ultrasignup.com — we’d love to hear your stories, guest ideas, or just say hi! And be sure to check out all the other great shows in the Ultra Podcast Network.

Welcome Brendan Leonard to The Trailhead! He’s the mind behind Semi-Rad, the master of stick figure cartoons, and now, he’s Zoë’s new co-host on The Trailhead. But instead of the usual "tell us about yourself" intro, we’re doing things our way. In this episode, Brendan gets interviewed by the person who knows him best—his mom. Kathy Leonard pulls no punches in this no-holds-barred sit-down, asking about everything from poop strategies to race regrets. We also chat about what drew Brendan to ultrarunning, why the middle of the pack is where the magic happens, and how humor helps us survive the weirdest parts of trail running. We’re not here to chase clout or finish lines—we’re here for the characters, the comedy, and the community that make this sport what it is. Thanks to Our Partners, Skratch Labs! Fuel your long runs the smart way—with real food ingredients backed by science. Grab your free sample pack at skratchlabs.com with code REALFOODFUEL.

Big changes are happening at The Trailhead! In this episode, co-hosts Zoë Rom and Buzz Burrell reflect on Buzz’s legendary career in trail running and his next big adventure—his very own podcast, The Buzz with Buzz Burrell. Buzz shares his perspective on how the sport has evolved, from the early days of ultrarunning to the rise of FKTs (Fastest Known Times), the integration of outdoor culture into trail running, and the innovations that have transformed the way we run. He and Zoë also discuss why authenticity matters in media, what makes someone a lasting presence in the sport, and what listeners can expect from The Buzz, launching March 25th. 🏃 Shoutout to Our Sponsor: Running Warehouse! This episode of The Trailhead is brought to you by Running Warehouse, your one-stop shop for all things trail and ultrarunning. Check them out and gear up for your next adventure at RunningWarehouse.com. Tune in for: 🔥 Buzz on the history of trail running and its evolution 🏃 The rise of FKTs and why they matter 🎙️ Why The Buzz is bringing something new to trail running media 🤔 What makes someone a legend in the sport? 📖 Buzz’s upcoming book on FKTs - check it out! Stay Connected & Tune In! The Buzz with Buzz BurrellMarch 25th!Follow UltraSignup for updates on new podcast episodes.buzz@ultrasignup.comThe Trailhead 📩 Email us at trailhead@ultrasignup.com with your questions or guest ideas!

What makes someone want to run their first ultra? And more importantly—what makes them want to come back for a second? The reality is, most people who sign up for an ultra only do one. But why? And how can we help more runners not just finish, but fall in love with the sport? Tune in for tips on running your first - or even tenth - ultramarathon. In this episode, Buzz and Zoë dig into what it takes to have a meaningful, successful experience at your first ultra, whether you're eyeing a 50K for the first time or looking to refine your approach. They’re joined by two powerhouse runners and coaches—Dr. Stephanie Flippen and Chrissy Moehl—who have spent years helping athletes navigate the highs, lows, and everything in between when it comes to ultrarunning. What keeps people from coming back after their first ultra?How to transition from roads to trailsThe best training approach for your first ultraMindset shifts that make a differenceThe fueling equationMaking ultras more accessible Thanks to Our Sponsors! Wahoo KICKR RUN: Take your run training to the next level—whether you're dialing in race-specific pacing, tackling structured workouts, or just escaping the elements. The Wahoo KICKR RUN is the first smart treadmill designed for endurance athletes, with real-road feel and precision control to match your effort. Train smarter and run stronger. Learn more at wahoofitness.com. LMNT: Ultras aren’t just about water—you need electrolytes, too. Element makes that part easy, with a science-backed formula and none of the junk you don’t need. Our listeners can get a free sample pack with any purchase at drinkelement.com/ultrasignup. Resources & Links Running Your First Ultrahttps://krissymoehl.com/Making StridesListen Heretrailhead@ultrasignup.com

1:42 – Buzz and Zoë dive into how their relationship with running has evolved over the years. They explore what it takes to sustain a lifelong love of the sport—and Buzz dishes out some hard-earned running relationship wisdom. 11:58 – Zoë sits down with Tyler Green and Rachel Drake, a power couple in the ultrarunning world. They share the story of how they first met mid-race (pro tip: always pack soap—you never know when you’ll need to impress a potential suitor). They also break down how they juggle elite competition, parenting, and careers while keeping their love for both running and each other alive. 31:59 – Buzz chats with Tabor and Eli Hemming, two of the fastest short-course trail runners in the game. They open up about how they push each other in training and tackle life together—both on the racecourse and on their working ranch in Kremmling, Colorado. Tune in for grounded relationship advice, a dose of competitive fire, and maybe even a ranching tip or two! The Trailhead is sponsored by Running Warehouse.

In this episode, Zoë and Buzz dive into their personal journeys toward identifying as environmentalists—exploring why that label can feel complicated and what it truly means to take action for the planet. 7:12 Zoë sits down with Running for Real host and former elite marathoner Tina Muir to discuss the power of small, everyday actions in making running more sustainable. Tina shares the surprising challenges that races face when it comes to sustainability and how she began integrating environmental advocacy into her running. 27:51 Buzz chats with ultrarunning legends Scott and Jenny Jurek about their work with Protect Our Winters and why optimism is a powerful tool for climate advocacy. They discuss the importance of persistence in environmental action, the intersection of policy and personal choices, and how runners can lead the charge for a more sustainable future. Tune in for practical insights, inspiring stories, and a fresh perspective on what it means to be a runner who cares for the planet.

Zoë and Buzz dive into what community means to them and why the Keep Trail Running Weird awards matter. Instead of focusing on elite athletes, these awards shine a spotlight on the everyday runners, the quirky characters, and the inspiring individuals who make up the heart of the trail running community. It’s our way of celebrating the people who keep this sport vibrant, inclusive, and downright fun 6:44Dwight SwaneyFavorite Trail Weird13:12Leah Kate VincentMost Inspirational22:57Tony MendezBest Dressed32:49Heather WestbergBest Trail Fail41:05Rich Tenaglia This episode is a celebration of the quirky, bold, and inspiring people who make trail running the unique and vibrant community we all love. Don’t miss it!

00:40 Buzz and Zoë chat about how they connect with nature through trail running, and why all trail runners should think of themselves as environmentalists. 6:48 Zoë interviews Luis Benitez, an environmental leader in the outdoor industry and a passionate advocate for sustainability and environmental stewardship, who has summited Mt. Everest six times. As the first-ever Director of the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office and , Luis brings a unique perspective on the intersection of outdoor recreation, environmental responsibility, and community impact and how all trail runners can be environmentalists. 33:37 Buzz interviews ultra legend Clare Gallagher about how approach to environmental stewardship, and how she finds meaning in her connection to nature offline and on the trails. They dive into her recent race in Bhutan, and how that has shaped her perspective on environmental storytelling and ultrarunning.

It’s the end of 2024, and we’re wrapping up the year with a deep dive into the biggest trends, moments, and milestones in trail running. Zoë Rom and Buzz Burrell share their top highlights from the year, including record-breaking performances, evolving race formats, and bold predictions for 2025. Joined by UltraSignup’s Head of Data, Matt Abbott, this episode explores the stories behind the stats and how they’re shaping the sport we love. Whether you’re a seasoned ultrarunner or just hitting the trails, there’s something here for you. Chapters: [00:00][05:12][10:28][16:04][22:15][30:48][36:22][41:37][48:20][55:03] Thanks to Our Sponsor Utah 115 by Grand to Grand Ultra Connect With Us: Have questions or ideas for the show? Email us at trailhead@ultrasignup.com. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share the episode with your trail running crew. Thanks for meeting us at The Trailhead!

1:00 Zoë and Buzz discuss the technological and cultural shifts that have led to the trail running livestream boom and debate what its impact will be on the sport. 6:04 Buzz interviews Aravaipa Running founder Jamil Coury. They discuss how Mountain Outpost is leading the way with livestreams and why he decided to buy Ultrarunning magazine. They also discuss how the sport has changed and how Jamil’s love of bringing new people into the sport inspires him to keep pushing boundaries with event coverage. 28:06 Zoë interviews writer and researcher Leigh Cowart, author of Hurts So Good: The Culture of Pain on Purpose, about the psychology that drives people to seek out uncomfortable experiences intentionally. They dive into how Leigh’s trip to Big’s Backyard Ultra inspired them to write about ultrarunners and what they learned about pain from hanging out with ultra athletes.

0:50:00 Buzz and Zoë talk about what community means to them and how the trail running community can serve as a positive model as people reassess who they consider their neighbors. 11:09:00 Zoë interviews Tara Dower, who recently set the overall Fastest Known Time on the Appalachian Trail, about her preparation for the FKT and how her relationship with the iconic trail and with hiking and running has evolved over time. Tara talks about her trail running role models and how she wants to inspire more people to push their limits on the trail. 34:47:00 Buzz interviews Warren Doyle, who has hiked the AT 18 times and is the founder of the Appalachian Trail Institute. They discuss the trail's history of speed records and explain why so many hikers and runners are drawn to this iconic through-hike.

:55 Zoë and Buzz discuss the "party platform" that all trail runners can agree on and how athletes can navigate election anxiety. 8:29 Buzz interviews RUN Editor in Chief Brian Metzler. Buzz and Brian discuss the biggest changes they've seen in the world of trail and ultrarunning and what's next for the running industry. 33:11 Zoë interviews TrainingPeaks co-founder Dirk Friel about how technology has changed training for endurance sports, and why AI isn't taking your coach's job just yet. The Trailhead is sponsored by Running Warehouse. Running Warehouse offers the best brands and the widest selection of running gear. Our in-house experts make it easy to find the right shoes and apparel with thousands of reviews, product deep dives, how-tos, and more. Plus, with free shipping and fast delivery, Running Warehouse makes ordering simple.

00:00:53 Buzz and Zoë chat through advice they wish they had gotten when they first started running, and advice for new and aspiring trail and ultrarunners. 00:8:53 Zoë interviews Randi Zuckerberg (yes, that Zuckerberg!) about how she went from running a half marathon, to signing up for the Cocodona 250 in a year. Plus, they dive into what it means to go all in on your passions, and advice for athletes balancing training with busy lives. 35:48:52 Buzz interviews Brendan Madigan, Race Director at Broken Arrow Sky Race about what it takes to run a three day event and what US races can learn from European style events.

1:00 Buzz and Zoë discuss the intersection of trail running and alpinism, and how runners can stay safe when seeking high adventure. 14:00 Zoë interviews Kilian Jornet about his Alpine Connections Project, where he linked 82 peaks in under 20 days entirely under his own power. Kilian unpacks how he trained for his epic alpine adventure, and why he wants to use it to draw attention to climate change in the alps. 42:44 Buzz interivews pro trail runner and race director Mike Foote about how The Rut has become such a successful event, and how he was inspired by his experiences racing in Europe.