The Trail Network Podcast

All four Trail Network hosts — Katie Asmuth, Leah Yingling, Hilary Yang, and Rachel Drake — open the episode with life updates and a debrief on a wild-weather Run Rabbit Run weekend, digging into what went wrong for many athletes and how U.S. races handle (or don’t handle) mandatory gear. They trade practical strategies for racing in bad conditions, from smarter crewing and real waterproof layers to training in the weather you fear. Then Rachel sits down with Megan Roche — double doctor, mom of two, coach, and the 2025 Run Rabbit Run 50-mile champion — to talk about her “growth and grace” mantra, rebuilding after pericarditis and two pregnancies, lower-mileage success (about half her pre-baby volume), cross-training, and why patience and pelvic-floor PT matter. Megan shares how she balances competitive fire with motherhood, the joy of pacing, and what’s next as she eyes longer distances. The crew closes with quick takeaways: prepare early, layer smart, size up shoes, and let mindset lead the day.This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

On this episode of the Trail Network Podcast, hosts Leah Yingling and Rachel Drake welcome Carolina Rubio-MacWright, a New York City–based lawyer, immigrant, mother, and advocate for marginalized communities. Carolina shares her remarkable story of balancing advocacy, family, and running, culminating in her recent finish at UTMB in just over 45 hours.The conversation explores her work supporting immigrant communities, her perspective on making trail running more inclusive, and the powerful ways individuals can create meaningful change. Carolina also reflects on what it meant to “close the loop” at UTMB and how her personal journey has shaped her impact both on and off the trails.This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

The Trail Network crew — Rachel Drake, Leah Yingling, Hilary Yang, and Katie Asmuth — reunites to unpack standout moments from UTMB week and to celebrate Rachel’s newest arrival, Chloe Gloria Green. They discuss women’s race coverage and why CCC stole the show, the chaos and beauty of mountain weather management, and how surprising results opened the door for breakout performances. The conversation shifts to a thoughtful debate about finishing versus DNF from an athlete’s point of view, A, B, and C goals that evolve mid-race, and why context matters. Rachel shares a powerful, joyful birth story, Leah gives a peek into newborn life as an ultra-fan, and the team previews upcoming guests and projects.Topics coveredUTMB takeaways: women’s coverage strides, CCC drama, Ruth’s Triple Crown, weather as the main characterBreakout results and shoutouts across CCC and UTMBFinish vs DNF: athlete autonomy, changing goals, and seasons of sportA, B, and C goals explained and how they shift mid-raceRachel’s birth story and meeting ChloeNewborn life updates, community support, and kid-friendly adventuresGear notes: soft carriers and being outdoors with babiesThis episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

In this episode of the Trail Network Podcast, Katie Asmuth, Rachel Drake, and Hilary Yang sit down for a “UTMB 101” conversation. They break down what UTMB is, how it started, and why it has become such a defining event in the trail running world. From its grassroots beginnings in 2003 to today’s week-long festival of eight races across three countries, UTMB represents both the beauty and challenges of the sport. The hosts share personal stories, memories from racing and crewing, and the unique atmosphere in Chamonix that brings together thousands of runners, brands, and fans from around the globe. They also discuss the growth of UTMB under Ironman, the push for equality and inclusion in the sport, and the balance between grassroots values and professionalization. If you’ve ever wondered what makes UTMB the “Super Bowl” of trail running, this episode is your guide.This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

ER doctor and trail runner Anne Flower joins host Katie Asmuth on The Trail Network to share the story of her remarkable victory at the 2025 Leadville 100. In her debut 100-miler, Anne broke the 31-year-old course record previously held by ultrarunning legend Ann Trason, finishing in 17:58. She reflects on her path from growing up playing soccer and exploring the outdoors, to discovering running during medical school as a tool for balance, to qualifying for the Olympic Marathon Trials, and eventually stepping into trail ultras. Anne and Katie dive into how she balances a demanding career in emergency medicine with training, her fueling and mindset at Leadville, and how approaching the race with a beginner’s perspective became her biggest strength. Anne also shares about her nonprofit work with Mountains to Mountains and what she hopes for in the next chapter of her running journey.This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

In this episode of the Trail Network Podcast Hilary Yang, Leah Yingling and Katie Asmuth catch up on Katie's Leadville experience! Thank you Osprey for supporting this episode of the Trail Network Podcast!

In this episode of the Trail Network Podcast, host Katie Asmuth sits down with elite ultrarunner Kaytlyn Gerbin for an in-depth conversation about her remarkable comeback to racing. From a podium at UTMB and top finishes at Western States to an unexpected hip dysplasia diagnosis, major surgery, pregnancy, and more than two years away from competition, Kaytlyn’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and redefining success.She opens up about stepping away from her career in bioengineering, the mental and physical challenges of recovery, and the acceptance that came with an uncertain athletic future. Katie and Kaytlyn discuss the slow and intentional build back to running, the role hiking played in her rehab, and how she balances motherhood, competitive racing, and ambitious mountain projects. Kaytlyn reflects on her recent win and fourth-place overall finish at Cascade Crest 100—her first ultra back—despite pre-race challenges and a week-earlier mountaineering expedition.The conversation also dives into her Emmy-winning North Cascades High Route project, the process of pitching and executing major adventures for sponsors, and her passion for balancing competitive goals with exploratory expeditions. Kaytlyn offers thoughtful advice for athletes navigating comebacks, emphasizing patience, flexibility, and focusing on what you can do rather than what you can’t.This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

In this episode of the Trail Network Podcast, Hilary Yang sits down with one of the most exciting names in ultrarunning right now, Rachel Entrekin. With a 16-race win streak and a course record at both Cocodona 250 and High Lonesome, Rachel has quickly risen through the ranks — but it's her grounded perspective, hilarious stories, and genuine love for the sport that make this conversation shine.Rachel opens up about her conservative upbringing, how running helped her rewrite her own narrative, and why community and joy are at the center of her racing decisions. She and Hilary talk about the power of representation in sport, the mental game behind 200s, and the underrated beauty of staying curious and not taking yourself too seriously.From ditch naps and carrying a literal rock in a race, to strategic course breakdowns and professional crossroads, this is a refreshing, candid conversation about what it means to keep showing up — for the love of it.Listen on Spotify and follow @trailnetworkpod on Instagram for guest updates, behind-the-scenes, and more inspiring stories from the trail.This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

On this special episode of the Trail Network podcast, hosts Hilary Yang and Katie Asmuth sit down with Leah Yingling to hear her birth story. Leah shares how her life shifted unexpectedly when she had to be induced, opening up about the challenges, emotions, and joys of becoming a new mom. This heartfelt conversation highlights the power of vulnerability, community, and support in navigating life’s biggest transitions.This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

In this episode of the Trail Network Podcast, Hilary Yang and Katie Asmuth reconnect for a conversation about what comes after the finish line—specifically Hilary’s recovery from the Hardrock 100 and Katie’s win at the Tahoe Trail 50K. Hilary shares the mental and physical roller coaster of post-race recovery, from breathing freely again to jogging in Canada with a renewed sense of freedom. She and Katie reflect on the importance of giving space for rest, honoring the magnitude of what the body has just accomplished, and resisting the urge to jump to the next goal too quickly.Katie opens up about what it meant to feel her racing fire return at Tahoe after a long injury comeback. She describes the mental breakthrough of trusting her body again and feeling genuinely competitive, even after a frustrating mid-race navigation issue. With Leadville on the horizon, Katie dives into what excites her most: the opportunity to problem-solve at high altitude and test herself in a whole new way.The conversation widens to the broader themes of identity, resilience, and how trail running becomes a mirror for who we are and how we grow. They explore how transformation can happen through hard things—whether that’s a hundred-mile race, an injury comeback, or simply getting out the door when life is pulling in a million directions. They honor the unique strength of trail running’s varied bodies and stories, and answer listener questions about body image, race gear, and how to find your first 100-miler.This episode is both grounding and uplifting—reminding us that there’s power in the process, beauty in the imperfection, and growth in simply showing up.This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

This week on the Trail Network Podcast, Hilary Yang and Katie Asmuth sit down for a full race recap of Hilary’s experience at the 2025 Hardrock 100. Katie was on the ground at Hardrock crewing and pacing, and in this episode she interviews Hilary about every stage of her race — from the difficult lead-up to the finish line in Silverton.Hilary breaks down the most challenging moments of the race, including:Battling altitude, cold temperatures, and wildfire smoke within the first 10 milesStruggling through severe nausea, multiple vomiting episodes, and long stretches without crew supportMentally navigating the lowest points on course while running almost 12 hours without pacersA dramatic late-race comeback after mile 75 with the help of an incredible crew and pacersRacing the clock to avoid cutoffs, summiting iconic Grant Swamp Pass at sunset, and passing over a dozen runners in the final milesA terrifying fall four miles from the finish and pushing through hallucinations to kiss the rockHilary and Katie also discuss key takeaways, including:Lessons learned about fueling at altitude and adapting when things go wrongThe crucial role of her crew and pacing team in turning the race aroundHilary’s thoughts on going back to Hardrock in the futureA sneak peek into the upcoming documentary Billy Yang is producing about Hilary’s Hardrock journeyThis is a raw and honest episode about what it takes to finish one of the hardest mountain ultras in the world. Hilary reflects on the months and years of preparation that led to this moment, how she stayed mentally engaged despite major setbacks, and why finishing Hardrock was about much more than a finish time.Listen in for a true behind-the-scenes look at Hardrock 100 through the eyes of a first-time finisher.This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

Katie Asmuth hosts this lively and thoughtful episode from Leadville, Colorado, alongside Riley Brady and Ellie Pell. Fresh off a 28-mile run above 10,000 feet, the trio dives into a wide-ranging conversation that blends humor, hot takes, and real questions about the future of the sport.Topics covered include:Leadville ambitions – Katie reveals her goal to race Leadville and shares what makes qualifying so unique.The GPS watch dilemma – Why do navigation tools still miss the mark on trail accuracy?Western States reflections – Riley shares insights after a tough day at States and what it was like running through a packed, high-energy escarpment.Should top contenders get different treatment? – A deep dive into whether elites deserve streamlined aid station support, and how the sport might better serve athletes at every level.Standardizing rules in ultras – From pacer regulations to course-cutting consequences, the group debates how much should be uniform across races.Gear gripes and wish lists – The trio wants lighter gels, faster hydration packs, better laces, and athlete-only zones for ravenous post-run athletes.Sponsorship honesty – They call out the all-too-common trend of athletes endorsing gear they don’t actually use.Coach talk – From Corinne Malcolm to Tyler Green and Rick Floyd, they shout out great coaches and emphasize the importance of honest communication and coach-athlete fit.Favorite sports moments – From crossword gold stars to Angel Reese’s iconic NCAA gesture, they share moments that inspired or cracked them up.This episode blends trail talk with bigger conversations about competition, fairness, and how the sport is evolving. Whether you're racing at the front, pacing a friend, or dreaming of your first ultra, there's something here for every trail runner.Listen in for: laughs, spicy takes, and a few ideas the trail world still isn’t talking about.This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

In this post-Western States 100 episode of the Trail Network Podcast, Leah Yingling, Hilary Yang, and Rachel Drake unpack the whirlwind of race week—both on the ground and from afar. They reflect on what made this year’s race feel so dynamic, unpredictable, and inspiring.They dive into everything from media chaos, crewing logistics, and coverage parity to the breakout performances from Abby Hall and Caleb Olson. Hilary shares behind-the-scenes insight from her documentary and social media work and Leah talks about the surprising spark that made her want to return to the race more than ever.Other highlights include:The explosion of media at Western States and how it’s reshaping race dayWhy this year’s women’s race coverage felt different—in a good wayStories of resilience, including the Golden Hour Runner and race-day improvisationsPregnant adventuring, postpartum plans, and what’s next for Hilary as she heads to HardrockWhether you were on the escarpment or watching from home, this episode captures the electric energy of Western States and why 2024 may have been the most memorable year yet.This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

In this special in-person episode recorded live from Olympic Valley, co-hosts Katie Asmuth, Leah Yingling, and Hilary Yang dive deep into the 2025 Western States 100 women’s field. With race day tomorrow, the trio goes full trail nerd mode on everything from top contenders and international shake-ups to training blocks, Strava sleuthing, and personal insights.They break down race favorites, explore exciting dark horses, and spotlight powerful storylines. They also talk age group potential, debut 100-milers, and who might break the masters record this year.You'll also hear behind-the-scenes training tidbits, pacer prep, what makes this year’s field so uniquely deep and international, and even some spicy pre-race speculation: Who might top the escarpment first? Who’s secretly training in heat suits? And who’s a quiet killer ready to make a big move?It's a celebration of fierce women, racing guts, and the wild beauty of Western States 100. Let’s go.This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

In this episode of The Trail Network, Leah Yingling, Katie Asmuth, and Rachel Drake tackle listener-submitted questions — from the most essential pieces of gear to the do’s and don’ts of early trail running. They reflect on their own first races, share stories from their original local trail crews, and discuss the learning curve that shaped their ultra journeys.The trio dives into topics like:The gear they wish they had when they started (spoiler: good socks and GPX watches go a long way)Why finding your local trail community might be the best investment of allNavigating the overwhelming flood of information in today's media-heavy running sceneTraining structure for long ultras — whether double runs or extended sessions work bestThe beauty of learning through mistakes (hello, 5-hour “easy” runs with one snack)Plus, they explore the value of coaching, celebrate female-led races pushing for parity in the sport, and close with a few words of wisdom for anyone just starting out.A perfect listen for new runners, seasoned trail vets, and anyone chasing joy out on the dirt.Teaser for next time: How would the crew race Western States if they were toeing the line this year? Tune in next week for that deep dive.This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

In this episode of The Trail Network Podcast, hosts Leah, Hilary, and Katie reconnect for a heartfelt roundtable about where running fits in different seasons of life—physically, emotionally, and logistically.Hilary kicks things off with a recap of her recent Malibu Canyon 50 miler, which she ran just days after a root canal. She shares what it was like to race while experimenting with new nutrition strategies from her work with Meredith Terranova, and how dialing in her fueling gave her the confidence boost she needed ahead of Hardrock.Katie follows with a recap of the Silver State 50K, a sweltering grassroots race in Reno that surprised her with community, connection, and a fierce competitor who shattered the course record. She reflects on how racing has changed now that her kids are older—and why she's committed to showing up, even when her fitness isn’t at its peak.Leah shares what it’s been like to not be in training mode right now and how that distance from competition has reshaped her perspective. The trio opens up about the complexities of returning from injury, growing families, shifting priorities, and the challenge of chasing performance while honoring longevity in the sport.They also dig into:– Nutrition lessons from both Hilary’s personal breakthroughs and Leah’s involvement in Lululemon’s Further research– What makes “training races” valuable (and fun!)– The unique pressure of trying to hit PRs as life evolves– The deep emotional tug of being a parent and an athlete– Upcoming Western States roles, Broken Arrow excitement, and what’s next for Here for the Women’s RaceThis conversation is an honest, thoughtful reflection on staying in love with the sport, even when the shape of that love changes.This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

In this week’s episode of the Trail Network podcast, hosts Leah Yingling and Rachel Drake reconnect for a deep dive into recent adventures, personal milestones, and reflections on life, pregnancy, and trail running.Leah kicks off the episode with a recap of her recent trip to Northern Wales, where she crewed for her husband, Mike, at Ultra Trail Snowdonia—a notoriously rugged and stunningly beautiful race often dubbed “Hardrock at sea level.” Leah shares her experience navigating the course logistics, supporting Mike through brutally technical terrain, and balancing the demands of international travel while six months pregnant. The pair also reflect on the underrepresentation of women in ultra-distance events like Snowdonia and the broader implications of participation barriers in these challenging races.Rachel then recounts her rim-to-rim crossing of the Grand Canyon, completed just days prior to recording, as part of a supported project with Osprey and Precision Fuel & Hydration. She offers a raw and thoughtful look at preparing for a major effort while pregnant, including fueling changes, unexpected physical challenges, and the importance of adaptability and community support. The two also reflect on their evolving pregnancies, comparing their experiences, training adaptations, and what it means to find joy in movement during such a transformational time.The episode wraps with a meaningful discussion around postpartum expectations, race deferral policies, and the nuanced realities of running through pregnancy and fertility journeys. They spotlight Stephanie Case’s inspiring victory at the 100K at Snowdonia—six months postpartum and breastfeeding mid-race—as well as broader issues around representation, sponsorship policies, and UTMB ranking implications for pregnant athletes.With honesty, humor, and heart, Leah and Rachel celebrate the many ways women show up in the trail world—on the start line, crewing, parenting, recovering, and dreaming big.This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

In this episode of the Trail Network Podcast, host Rachel Drake sits down with professional trail runner, ICU nurse, and new mom of twins, Taylor Nowlin. Known for her top-10 finishes at Western States, CCC, and OCC, Taylor opens up about the highs and lows of pregnancy, motherhood, and her remarkable return to racing just eight months postpartum.Taylor shares the surprise of learning she was having twins while her husband was off-grid on a climbing trip, the complications that led to a high-risk pregnancy and early bed rest, and the physical and emotional challenges of recovering from a C-section. She also reflects on how her sponsors supported her through this season of change, and how strength training, a shift in mindset, and support from her community helped guide her back to competitive racing.Now training with coach Paul Lind and focusing on shorter, faster trail events like the Broken Arrow 23K, Taylor is embracing a new chapter of motherhood and racing—balancing lower mileage with higher intention. She and Rachel also share plenty of laughs about postpartum life, family travel chaos, and the role of their dogs as unofficial cleanup crew during baby mealtimes.Whether you're an athlete, a parent, or somewhere in between, this episode is an honest and inspiring look at resilience, identity, and the joy of returning to sport after life-changing transitions.This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

On this week’s episode of the Trail Network Podcast, Katie sits down with fellow co-host Hilary Yang for a much-needed catch-up. Hilary may have been MIA from the mic, but she’s been everywhere else—juggling training for the Hardrock 100, directing the new Mammoth 200-miler, producing storytelling projects, and traveling the globe.They talk about:Behind the scenes of Hilary’s media role at Cocodona 250 (yes, including ramen brands and eucalyptus towels)The wild Korean hill repeats and air blastersTraining on the go—through jetlag, film shoots, and family timeThe emotional relief of finally getting Mammoth 200 permits clearedHow storytelling and racing go hand-in-handWhat she’s learned from Cocodona that she’ll bring to the Mammoth 200And why gratitude is fueling this high-energy, high-output seasonWhether you’re racing, volunteering, storytelling, or just trying to train through the chaos of life—this one’s for you.This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

In this heartwarming episode of the Trail Network podcast, host Katie Asmuth sits down with two incredible athletes and friends, EmKay Sullivan and Abby Hall, for what just might be the feel-good story of 2025. The trio dives into big life updates—most notably, EmKay’s exciting pregnancy—and the ripple effect it had on her racing season.When EmKay earns a coveted golden ticket to Western States but is unable to use it, she has the opportunity to pass it on to Abby. Together, they reflect on what this moment has meant for them personally and professionally, and how friendship, timing, and mutual respect played a role in this opportunity.Please note: This episode was recorded prior to the Canyons race, so any mentions of race plans reflect that timing.It’s a conversation about gratitude, change, and the power of community in the trail running world. This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.