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 goals shape our bodies, minds, and identities?

Welcome to The Aging Athlete, a new Trail Runner Nation mini-series co-hosted by ultrarunning icon Krissy Moehl. Every 5 to 6 weeks, we’ll dive into what it looks like to grow older in this sport we love—exploring how to train smarter, fuel better, recover more intentionally, and stay motivated through the decades. We’ll hear from veteran runners, sports scientists, strength coaches, dietitians, and everyday athletes who are navigating the highs and lows of longevity on the trails. From injury recovery to hormonal changes, shifting mindsets to redefined identities, this series is for anyone who’s ever wondered: Is this just what aging feels like—or is it the miles I’ve logged? And more importantly, how do I keep moving forward with strength, wisdom, and joy?

We don’t have all the answers—but we’re here to ask the right questions. Let’s age boldly, together.

Check out Krissy's book in it's second edition, Running Your First Ultra

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Peluva, 15% off with code TRAILRUNNER
• Bear Mattress, get 40% off your first order with code TRAIL
• Wonderful Pistachios
• Oikos Triple Zero
• FREE! Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

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 working full-time. In this episode, Nicholas shares what drives him to chase such an audacious goal, from his first marathon a little over a year ago to a solo Backyard Ultra and beyond. He opens up about the mental resilience it takes to keep showing up, the role of community and technology in his training, and how he balances recovery, work, and high-mileage weeks. With a “golden retriever mindset” and a deep love for nature, Nicholas reflects on the joys and challenges of ultra-running. He also offers practical advice on gear, chafing, training surfaces, and pushing through failure. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just getting started, Nicholas’s story is a refreshing reminder of what’s possible with passion and grit.

Follow Nicholas' journey on Instagram and YouTube

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Ketone IQ, Get 30% off your first subscription order
• Tifosi Optics 20% off with code TRN
• Amazfit - T-Rex 3: Get 15% off
• Oikos Triple Zero
• FREE! Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

In this episode, ultra-endurance athlete Lucja Leonard recounts her transformative experience running the Arizona Monster 300, a race that pushed her beyond her limits. She talks about her essential strategies for success in ultra-running, including the importance of sleep, hydration, nutrition, and terrain research. Lucja highlights how positive self-talk, mental resilience, and a supportive community played key roles in overcoming physical and emotional challenges. Her journey from a non-athlete to a seasoned ultra-runner offers inspiration and practical insights for anyone facing extreme endurance events. The episode also explores recovery as a vital skill, the inevitability of problem-solving, and how embracing discomfort fuels personal growth. Lucja’s story is a testament to the mindset and preparation required for ultra-endurance success.

Links to learn more about Lucja:

• Running Dutchie - coaching, speaking, etc
• Finding Gobi
• EP 706: Running Through Adversity to Find Joy - Episode with Lucja's husband, Dion and their dog, Gobi.

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Peluva, 15% off with code TRAILRUNNER
• Liquid IV, get 20% off your first order with code TRAILRUNNER
• Wonderful Pistachios
• Oikos Triple Zero
• FREE! Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app