In this Ask the Coaches episode, three coaches from Sharman Ultra Coaching, Ian Sharman, Dr. Matt Laye, and Jackson Brill bring topics that they regularly encounter with their athletes. The conversation dives into the importance of mental toughness in ultra running, offering practical training strategies and insights on managing expectations during races.

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Shokz, Use code TRN10 for 10% off
• Peluva, 15% off with code TRAILRUNNER
• Get 45% off the Magic Mind bundle
• FREE! Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

In this episode, we play a game of "brilliant" or "bullshit" based on ten essential skills or knowledge areas that our "guest", Chat GPT, feels that every trail runner must know. Topics include embracing mud, barefoot running, hydration timing, and the value of technical gear, complemented by personal anecdotes and insights. The conversation highlights balancing technology with intuition, the benefits of walking technical sections, and the freedom to personalize nutrition. We also explore evolving views on stretching and the philosophy of racing oneself rather than competing with others, offering valuable takeaways for runners of all levels.

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Shokz, Use code TRN10 for 10% off
• Tifosi Optics 20% off with code TRN
• Peluva, 15% off with code TRAILRUNNER
• FREE! Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

There are so many new studies and scientific discoveries that it's tough for us runners to discern what is fact and what is fiction. That’s why we enjoy every discussion we have with Alex Hutchinson. He dispels the fake news and brings to us the latest and greatest in athletic research in his "Sweat Science" column at OutsideOnline.com. In this episode, we discuss a few of his recent articles on meditation, VO2max differences in gender, and how to fight muscle power as we age.

• Make sure you have his award-winning book, Endure: Mind, Body, and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance explores the boundaries of human potential on your reading list.
• Visit the Sweat Science website to learn more about Alex and everything he has going on.
• And pre-order his new book, The Explorer's Gene. Why We Seek Big Challenges, New Flavors, and Blank Spots on the Map - available on March 25, 2025. For sure we will be doing at least one episode on this so do your homework!

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• HUEL, 15% off with code TRAIL
• Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

Have you ever wondered if you’re leaving free speed on the trail every time you hit a downhill? Today, we’ll show you how mastering the art of downhill running can not only save your legs but also transform your races—because downhill running isn’t just about gravity; it’s about strategy, skill, and confidence.

Coach Ian Sharman offers invaluable insights for trail and ultra runners. We discuss essential techniques to overcome fear, manage muscle fatigue, and master quick feet for navigating technical terrain safely. Ian shares strategies to turn downhill sections into race-winning opportunities, highlighting the importance of consistent effort, decision-making, and tailored fueling strategies. The conversation emphasizes running gear's impact on performance and safety, particularly shoes and explores how practicing falling can reduce injury risks. Listeners are encouraged to embrace new challenges, enjoy the playful side of running, and build confidence through practice and preparation for downhill racing.

Check out Sharman Ultra Coaching and get a gift card for your friend!

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• INFERNO by Running Scared Media. BOGO with Promo Code Holiday
• shokz, Use code TRN10 for 10% off
• Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

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

In this episode, Zoë Rom and Kylee Van Horn, creators of the podcast Your Diet Sucks, explore the critical role of nutrition in endurance sports. They discuss common diet myths, the importance of individualized nutrition, and the impact of social media on body image and eating disorders among athletes. The conversation highlights why fueling for performance should take priority over aesthetics, the pitfalls of restrictive dieting, and the value of listening to your body. They also touch on food justice, the role of organic food, and the evolving science of recovery nutrition. With their journalism and sports nutrition background, they’re on a mission to simplify nutrition, promote a healthier relationship with food, and debunk the noise surrounding endurance athletes’ diets.

Zoë Rom is an award-winning journalist and ultra-runner with a master’s in environmental journalism and author of Becoming a Sustainable Runner. Kylee Van Horn is a registered dietitian and founder of Fly Nutrition, specializing in helping athletes fuel for performance and challenge harmful dietary norms in sports. Her new book, Practical Fueling for Endurance Athletes: Your Nutrition Guide for Optimal Performance is available for preorder and release on March 3, 2025. Both are amazing trail runners who talk our language.

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• INFERNO by Running Scared Media. BOGO with Promo Code Holiday
• Liquid IV, get 20% off your first order with code TRAILRUNNER
• Tifosi Optics 20% off with code TRN20
• Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

Sometimes, life's greatest challenges lead to its most meaningful moments and change our lives. Dion Leonard joins The Nation to tell one of his stories that might motivate you to embrace resilience, foster kindness, and value the connections that make life extraordinary.

Ultra-runner and author Dion Leonard shares his journey through his remarkable transformation from an overweight, heavy-drinking smoker to a decorated endurance athlete. Dion shares the pivotal moments that defined his path, including a half-marathon bet that set him on the road to health and his life-changing encounter with a stray dog named Gobi during the Gobi Desert ultramarathon.

Dion reflects on the themes of resilience, personal growth, and the impact of kindness—lessons that extend far beyond the trails.

Check out his New York Timse best-selling book, Finding Gobi: A LIttle Dog with a Very Big Heart.

Learn more about Dion Leonard HERE

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Shokz, Use code TRN10 for 10% off
• Tifosi Optics 20% off with code TRN20
• AquaTru: use code TRAILRUNNER for up to 20% off any water purifier
• Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

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

TRN friend and regular guest, Krissy Moehl and Kelly Kelly Swanson join our virtual run today to discuss the use of drop bags in ultra running. Kelly is the co-host of a new podcast, Drop Bag, and creator of the Ultraplanner, a tool that can help you organize your next ultra adventure or race. They explore the logistics and planning required, sharing personal anecdotes and lessons learned from their experiences as runners and race directors. The conversation highlights the importance of preparation, including packing essential items like hydration, nutrition, and comfort items that can enhance a runner’s experience. They delve into the challenges of race-day adaptability, particularly when drop bags don’t arrive as expected, and offer practical tips on labeling, weatherproofing, and lightening the load for volunteers. The hosts also emphasize the emotional aspects of racing, such as carrying sentimental items for motivation and creating connections within the running community. This episode underscores the value of preparation, humor, and giving back, all while fostering camaraderie among runners.

Krissy and Kelly have put together a great book bundle that includes:
- "Run Your First Ultra" by Krissy Moehl
- "Ultraplanner" by Kelly Swanson
- Performance Enhancing Kokopelli tattoos from Trail Runner Nation
- Stickers from Drp Bag Podcast and Salty Britches

What happens when the chaos of touring musicianship meets the grit of ultra-running? In this inspiring episode, we welcome ultra runners, musicians, and friends Kyle Whalum, Brad Sample, and Caleb Gilbreath to share their unique journey through the Pinhoti 100 ultramarathon and beyond. The conversation explores the parallels between music and running, highlighting the importance of self-discovery, inner rhythm, and passion over competition. From battling imposter syndrome to embracing spontaneity, the guests reflect on personal growth, the beauty of simplicity, and finding harmony in life’s challenges. Their documentary Rhythm in the Darkness captures the profound connections between endurance, creativity, and community.

Be SURE to listen past the end credits for one of the songs from the documentary. Click here for the Official Rhythm In The Darkness Soundtrack EP their band, DFL:
https://music.apple.com/us/album/rhyt... https://open.spotify.com/album/4YHJe4...
Here are links to Brad Sample's solo work

Episode Sponsors:
Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
Shokz, Use code TRN10 for 10% off
OneSkin: Get 15% off with code TRN
Tifosi Optics 20% off with code TRN20
Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app