This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the incredible Jamie Saunders, an ultra runner who embodies the true spirit of grit and grace.

Jamie's journey is one of pushing limits, overcoming obstacles, and discovering the strength within. We talk about her evolution from competitive sports to tackling those grueling ultra courses, including the Miami 100 and her recent victory at the Trident 80-Miler.

But it's not just about the miles. Jamie opens up about the power of community, the mental toughness it takes to succeed in ultra running, and the importance of finding joy in every step. We also dive into her plant-based lifestyle and how it fuels her performance.

Jamie's story is one of passion, perseverance, and the unwavering belief in the human spirit. It's a must-listen for anyone who's ever chased a dream.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jamie Saunders and Her Running Journey

02:52 Transition from Soccer to Long-Distance Running

05:24 First Experiences with Ultra Running

08:03 Plant-Based Diet and Its Impact on Performance

10:31 Challenges Faced During Races

13:17 First 100-Mile Race Experience

19:21 Comparing Miami 100 and Keys 100

31:37 Future Races and Goals

34:02 Journey Through Ultra Running

35:14 The Trident 80-Miler Experience

44:38 The Barkley Fall Classic Adventure

57:44 Race Across Florida 200: A New Challenge

01:10:25 Navigating Race Logistics

01:11:48 Memorable Races and Personal Connections

01:18:53 Challenges and Mental Toughness in Racing

01:20:46 The Purpose Behind Running

01:24:16 Training for Elevation in Florida

01:33:11 Future Running Plans and Community Engagement

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're lacing up our boots and hitting the trail with John Hardin & Keith Overbay as they talk about crewing and setting the Natchez Trace FKT.

We're not just talking about the miles and the records. We dive deep into the heart and soul of these FKT attempts, exploring the meticulous preparation, the emotional rollercoasters, and the physical challenges that push runners to their limits. It's a raw and honest look at what it takes to chase those big, audacious goals.

But it's not just about grit and determination. We also talk about the power of community and support in the ultra world, and how those connections can lift you up when the going gets tough. It's a reminder that we're all in this together, and that shared passion can fuel incredible achievements.

So if you've ever dreamed of chasing your own FKT, or if you're simply inspired by stories of human resilience and perseverance, this episode is a must-listen.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Guests and Their Journey

05:39 John's Running Journey and Early Experiences

11:28 Keith's Entry into Running and Shared Experiences

13:54 The Natchez Trace FKT Attempt: Background and Preparation

18:18 Preparation and Training for the FKT

26:21 Challenges Faced During the FKT Attempt

31:24 Final Preparations and Logistics for the FKT

33:51 Preparation and Day One Overview

46:56 Day Two Challenges and Adjustments

57:22 Day Three: Injury and Mental Struggles

01:04:35 The Struggle of Endurance

01:08:31 Finding Strength in Pain

01:11:53 Mental Challenges and Breakthroughs

01:17:37 The Role of Support and Crew

01:23:57 The Final Push to the Finish Line

01:35:00 The Journey to the FKT

01:42:56 The Emotional and Mental Aspects of Running

01:48:09 Community and Connection in Trail Running

01:52:58 The Challenges of Crewing

01:56:04 Looking Ahead: Future Adventures

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the incredible Michael Basuini, an accomplished ultra runner and coach who embodies the true spirit of the sport.

Mike's journey is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep love for the trails. He shares his evolution from mountain biker to runner, his experiences in college athletics, and the transition to coaching others. We talk about those early ultra races, the lessons learned, and how coaching has evolved over time.

But it's not just about training plans and finish lines. Mike dives into the importance of fueling your body, the mental fortitude it takes to tackle those tough races, and the challenges of taking on iconic events like Grindstone 100K and Never Summer 100K.

We also explore the unique challenges of altitude running and how Mike's passion for the sport has shaped his life. It's a reminder that running isn't just about the miles; it's about the community, the personal growth, and the joy it brings to every day.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mike Basuini

06:16 Transitioning to Coaching and Chattanooga

11:37 First 50K Experience and Lessons Learned

17:24 Finding Limits in Ultra Running

23:00 Looking Glass 50-Miler Victory

28:33 The Impact of COVID on Coaching

35:57 Transitioning to 100K Races

51:07 Training for the Pinhoti 100

01:00:03 Fueling Strategies and Lessons Learned

01:05:59 Upcoming Races and Personal Goals

01:13:52 The Motivation Behind Running

01:19:45 Favorite Nutrition Choices During Races

01:24:07 Key Lessons Learned in Ultra Running

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the incredible Alicia McClary, an ultra runner whose story will leave you speechless. Alicia's journey is one of resilience, determination, and the power of the human spirit to overcome even the toughest challenges. We talk about her incredible transformation from cancer survivor to endurance athlete, and how running became her lifeline during those difficult times. Alicia opens up about the physical and mental hurdles she's faced, including a serious health scare that nearly derailed her dreams. It's a raw and honest look at the grit and determination it takes to keep going when the odds are stacked against you. We also dive into the incredible camaraderie of the ultra community, and how those connections can lift you up when you need it most. It's a beautiful reminder that we're all in this together. Alicia's story is a testament to the strength we all have within us. It's a story of hope, resilience, and the unwavering belief in the power of the human spirit. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Alicia McClary 01:25 Alicia's Journey into Running 03:14 Overcoming Cancer and Finding Purpose 06:41 The Impact of Cancer on Alicia's Life 11:55 Starting the Couch to 5K Program 14:01 Transitioning from 5K to Ultra Running 18:25 Experiences with Trail Races 20:45 Challenges Faced During Races 25:05 Understanding Rhabdomyolysis 28:35 The Importance of Hydration in Running 30:01 The Watermelon Choice: A Flavorful Start 30:47 Breaking Down the Race: Elevation and Endurance 32:04 Overcoming Challenges: The Mental Game of Racing 33:17 Hydration and Health: Lessons from Rhabdo 33:56 First Steps into Ultra Racing: The Backyard Ultra Experience 34:30 Training for Success: Building Up to the Backyard Ultra 37:43 Fueling Strategies: Real Food vs. Gels 40:25 The Competitive Spirit: Progression in Backyard Ultras 45:09 Strolling Jim: A Hilly Adventure 48:12 Community and Connection: The Heart of Racing 54:28 The Dance of the Unexpected 57:44 Overcoming Adversity in Racing 01:00:51 The Journey Through Illness and Recovery 01:10:28 Community Support in Times of Crisis 01:16:56 Inspiration from Fellow Runners 01:21:22 Exploring Future Races and Goals 01:27:56 The Motivation Behind Running 01:31:49 Favorite Distances and Events 01:36:24 Community and Support in Running 01:40:03 Race Recommendations and Future Plans

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we were honored to have ultra runner Whitney Dancaster join us. Her story is one of incredible resilience and determination.

Whitney shared her inspiring journey into the world of ultras, from those early races to taking on incredible challenges like the Keys 100 and Long Haul 100. She spoke with such honesty about the obstacles she faced in her first ultra, and how she discovered the strength to overcome them.

But it's not just about pushing limits. Whitney highlighted the incredible community within the ultra world, and how those connections can lift you up when you need it most. It's a beautiful reminder that we're all in this together.

We also delved into her experiences at the legendary Barkley Fall Classic, a race that pushes runners to the very edge of what's possible. Whitney shared valuable lessons about respecting your body, the importance of healing, and the courage to keep going.

Whether you're a seasoned ultra runner or just starting to explore the trails, Whitney's story is filled with wisdom, kindness, and a passion that will ignite your own spirit.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Whitney Dancaster

01:29 Whitney's Journey into Ultra Running

04:37 Military Background and Early Running Experiences

05:31 First Encounter with Ultra Running

09:20 The Challenges of the Keys 100

13:44 Lessons Learned from Ultra Running

16:55 The Mental Battle in Ultra Running

24:44 Reflections on the Keys 100 Accident

31:05 Memorable Experiences from Long Haul 100

33:26 Track Ultras and Community Vibes

35:24 Chasing Ultra Running Goals

43:01 The Thrill of Track Ultras

50:34 Lessons from the Long Haul 100

01:03:02 Future Aspirations in Ultra Running

01:04:00 The Importance of Crew in Backyard Ultras

01:06:47 Navigating the Barkley Fall Classic

01:15:29 Dehydration and Salt Management in Ultra Running

01:34:00 The Endurance Athlete Mindset and Community

01:38:38 Hydration Strategies for Endurance Runners

01:41:40 Innovative Solutions for Race Challenges

01:44:12 Sponsorships and Brand Partnerships in Running

01:46:07 Choosing the Right Gear for Performance

01:47:54 Training Insights: Overtraining vs. Undertraining

01:50:38 Nutrition and Fueling During Races

01:55:19 Future Goals and Upcoming Races

01:58:08 The Rise of Female Athletes in Ultra Running

On this week's Dirt and Vert Podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Leah Mulligan, an incredible ultra runner from Chattanooga. Leah's story is all about passion, perseverance, and the power of community.

We traced her journey from those early running days to her leap into the ultra world, and how her family and the running community fueled her every step of the way. Leah also opened up about her training, the dynamics of working with a coach, and the challenges she faced in those first ultra races.

But it's not just about the miles. Leah shared some incredible insights about the mental side of ultra running, the importance of staying positive, and how she balances life, running, and everything in between.

Of course, we couldn't forget about her recent achievements! Leah talked about those podium finishes, the lessons she's learned from both victories and setbacks, and her exciting plans for future races.

Whether you're a seasoned ultra runner or just starting out, Leah's story is a powerful reminder that with hard work, dedication, and a whole lot of heart, you can achieve incredible things.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Leah Mulligan and Her Running Journey

03:00 Early Influences and Transition to Ultra Running

06:01 College Running Experience and First Ultra

08:40 Experiences with Early Races and Community

11:35 First 12-Hour Race and Achievements

14:31 First 100-Mile Race: Penhody

17:10 The Importance of Community in Ultra Running

20:13 Lessons Learned from Ultra Running

23:09 Future Goals and Aspirations in Running

33:29 Altitude Challenges and Early Experiences

36:25 Learning from Racing: Humbling Experiences

39:08 Running by Feel vs. Data

42:02 Coaching and Performance Growth

45:02 Racing in Unique Locations: CCC and Beyond

47:30 Community and Support in Racing

50:21 Home Races and Personal Growth

53:15 Technical Challenges in Mountain Racing

59:07 Crossing the Marriage Threshold Through Running

59:53 The Blue Ridge Ultra Experience

01:00:52 Shared Success in Racing

01:01:49 The Balance of Life and Running

01:03:38 Finding Joy in Running

01:05:30 The SCAR FKT Journey

01:10:15 Future FKT Aspirations

01:13:06 Challenging Races Ahead

01:17:04 The Deeper Meaning of Running

01:24:30 Pushing Limits and Problem Solving

01:29:00 Finding Your Race Strategy

01:30:20 Overcoming Low Patches in Races

01:36:44 The Journey into Coaching

01:41:10 Building a Business Together