On Your Left with Trails of Mississippi

In this episode of On Your Left, host Matt Clem sits down with trail running legend John Brower. As one of the first athletes in the region to embrace ultra running, John helped spark the growth of trail running many years ago. He shares stories from his journey, the challenges and triumphs of the sport, and the lessons learned from pushing beyond limits.    #OnYourLeftPodcast #TrailRunning #UltraRunning #EnduranceRunning #TrailCommunity #RunningLife #Inspiration  This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

On this episode of On Your Left, Matt Clem sits down with Mississippi artist Robin Whitfield, whose life and work are rooted in the rivers, swamps, and forests of the South. Robin is more than a painter; she is a storyteller of the natural world, using watercolors and pigments foraged from plants and minerals to capture the rhythms and relationships of wild places. From her Grenada studio to the creation of Friends of Chakchiuma Swamp, Robin’s passion bridges art, conservation, and community. She shares how the beauty of Mississippi’s landscapes inspires her work, why protecting natural spaces matters now more than ever, and how creativity can spark deeper connections to the environment we live in. This conversation is a vibrant journey into the heart of art and nature, one that will leave you inspired to see your world differently. https://www.friends-of-cs.org/ #OnYourLeftPodcast #MattClem #RobinWhitfield #MississippiArtist #ArtAndNature #NatureConservation #WildPlaces #WatercolorArt #ForagedPigments #ChakchiumaSwamp #LeeTarttNaturePreserve #OutdoorPodcast #NatureInspired #ArtConservation #EcoArt #MississippiOutdoors   This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions. 

In this special episode of On Your Left Podcast, host Matt Clem sits down in the Line Shot Photography studios with PK and Cooper, while Pinhoti race directors Jamie and Todd Henderson join remotely. Together, they dive deep into the rich history of the Pinhoti Trail and the legendary Pinhoti races that have captured the hearts of trail runners everywhere.   From the rugged terrain and unique challenges to the community that has grown around these events, this conversation is packed with stories, inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look at what makes the Pinhoti 100 and other races so iconic.   For more info, race registration, and contact details: 🌐 Pinhoti Trail Series (https://www.pinhotitrailseries.com) 🌐 Register for Pinhoti 100 (https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=122098) 🌐 Register for Pinhoti 55 (https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=121762) 📧 Pinhoti100@gmail.com 📧 Jamiehruns@gmail.com   ⸻   #OnYourLeftPodcast #PinhotiTrail #TrailRunning #Pinhoti100 #Pinhoti55 #UltraRunning #TrailCommunity #TrailLife #RunTheTrails #AdventureAwaits #MattClem #LineShotPhotography #EnduranceRunning #TrailRunningPodcast   This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

In this episode of On Your Left with Trails of Mississippi, host Matt Clem sits down with Tim and Caroline Irvine, the powerhouse duo behind Time2Run. What started in 2010 as Tim Irvine Race Timing has grown into a premier race timing and event company serving Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana. From fun runs to marathons, ultras, cross-country meets, bike races, and even stair climbs, Tim and Caroline have seen it all. They share stories from their early days at Archusa Water Park to launching their own trail races like The Great Scorpion Trail Run, The Ivy Trek Ultra, and the brand-new Circle of the Dragon in 2024. Whether it’s on the road, in the woods, or on the water, the Irvines bring precision, passion, and a love for the running community to every event they time. If you’ve ever crossed a finish line and seen your time on the clock, you might just have Tim and Caroline to thank. This is a conversation about dedication, adventure, and the people who help make race day unforgettable. https://www.time2run.net/ #OnYourLeftPodcast #TrailsOfMississippi #Time2Run #RaceTiming #TrailRunning #UltraRunning #GreatScorpionTrailRun #IvyTrekUltra #CircleOfTheDragon #RunningCommunity #MississippiRunning #AlabamaRunning #LouisianaRunning #FunRun #Marathon #UltraMarathon #BikeRace #BoatRace #TrailRace #CrossCountry #RunningPodcast #OutdoorAdventure #EnduranceSports #RaceDirectors #RunnersLife #RunMississippi #TrailRunners #FinishLine #RunForFun #AdventureAwaits This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

In Episode 13 of On Your Left, Matt sits down with Big Butts Trail Race Director Kara Hankins for an inside look at this year’s event. Joining the conversation are both 100K champions—Lindsey Norris and Peter Kazery, who not only claimed victory but also set a new course record. From trail conditions to personal grit, they break down what it takes to conquer one of Mississippi’s most beloved endurance races. Whether you ran it, volunteered, or are thinking about lacing up next year, you won’t want to miss this deep dive into the Big Butts experience. #TrailRunning #BigButts100K #UltraMarathon #OnYourLeftPodcast #LindseyNorris #PeterKazery #KaraHankins #MississippiTrails #RunningCommunity #EnduranceRacing #TrailLife #CourseRecord This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

Matt sits down with Michelle Williams and Selena Swartzfager, cofounders of the Mississippi Interscholastic Cycling League, to explore how this statewide movement is reshaping youth development through the power of mountain biking. Rooted in the values of inclusivity, equity, respect, and community, the league is more than a sports program; it is a launchpad for building strong minds, bodies, character, and connections. Whether you’re a parent, coach, student, or cycling enthusiast, this episode offers a powerful look at how Mississippi’s trails are helping young people ride into a brighter, stronger future. 🎧 Listen in as we dive into: How the league got started The impact it is having on youth and families Why cycling is a tool for more than just fitness Mississippimtb.org #OnYourLeftPodcast #TrailsOfMississippi #MountainBiking #MississippiCycling #YouthDevelopment #GirlsWhoRide #InterscholasticCycling #BuildStrongBodies #CyclingCommunity #BikeMississippi #InclusiveSports #TrailLife #GetOutside #MississippiOutdoors   This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

In Episode 11, Matt sits down with Memphis native, Ole Miss alum, and Jackson community builder Dallis Ketchum. What began as a career path in medicine transformed into a deep dive into the rhythms of human movement, property, and place. Dallis shares how his sociology background, paramedic days, and a timely entry into real estate in 2005 all collided to shape a unique career rooted in resilience and vision.   From weathering the 2008 recession to co-founding NeighborHouse and JXN Housing, Dallis has done more than earn a license—he’s earned the wisdom that comes from investing, losing, and rebuilding in the very neighborhoods he serves today. Beyond real estate, Dallis talks about his heart for community, his love of endurance sports, and the creation of the Belhaven Mountain Bike Trail, which is fast becoming a local gem.   This episode is a conversation about passion, place, and purpose—with a little smoke from the Big Green Egg along the way.   https://www.visitjackson.com/directory/belhaven-mountain-bike-trail/   https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DMwFGyHiS/?mibextid=wwXIfr   #OnYourLeftPodcast #JacksonMS #DallisKetchum #RealEstateLife #BelhavenCommunity #UltraRunner #GravelBike #MountainBiking #SociologyToSuccess #JXNHousing #NeighborHouse #MississippiTrails This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

In this episode, Matt sits down with two powerhouse women who embody grit, heart, and a love for the long haul—Selena Daniel and Deanna Boyles. Selena, Director of Business Operations at Children’s of Mississippi, is a seasoned endurance runner, devoted wife, proud mom and grandma, and Race Director for Run the Rainbow. From 5Ks to 50Ks, she’s done it all—and now she’s training for a 100-miler. Her secret? Have fun doing the hard things. Deanna, a Client Manager at Ross & Yerger, has been married for 37 years and brings the same steady commitment to the pavement. A dedicated race walker since 2014, Deanna has crushed races of all distances and proudly serves as the Assistant Race Director for Run the Rainbow. Oh, and if you ask Selena who gets them into most of these adventures, Deanna’s got that 99.9% covered. Together, these two show how friendship, fitness, and a little bit of crazy can go a long way. #OnYourLeftPodcast #RunTheRainbow #UltraRunning #RaceWalking #WomenWhoMove #MississippiRunners #EnduranceLife #MattClemPodcast #AudioAlchemyProductions   This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

Today on On Your Left, Matt Clem, Zed Thompson, and David Sugg sit down with an inspiring guest—Jody Penton, a lifelong runner, recovering addict, and passionate advocate for healing through movement. As co-founder of Magnolia Recovery & Wellness Foundation, Now I See Interventions, and Run 4 Recovery JXN, Jody shares his powerful journey from managing sober living to helping others find hope and continuity in their recovery. Discover how the spirituality of running and the connection of mind, body, and spirit can transform lives. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking motivation, resilience, and the incredible power of movement in recovery. Jody Penton Facebook https://www.facebook.com/jody.penton.2025 David Sugg Facebook https://www.facebook.com/david.sugg.549 Magnolia Recovery & Wellness Foundation Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557764559829 Zed Thompson Facebook https://www.facebook.com/zach.thompson.146    #OnYourLeftPodcast #RecoveryJourney #RunForRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #SoberLiving #HealingThroughRunning #MovementHeals #Inspiration #AddictionRecovery This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

In this energizing episode of On Your Left, host Matt Clem sits down with Arree Williams, Board President of Soul City Cycling, and Cedric Chaffee, Director of Memberships. Together, they dive into the heartbeat of Central Mississippi’s cycling culture—how Soul City Cycling is more than just a club, it’s a movement. Founded in 2021 and proudly affiliated with the Major Taylor Cycling Club, Soul City Cycling has created a space where riders of all backgrounds can come together to build community, grow in knowledge, and celebrate the freedom of the open road. Arree and Cedric share how the group is educating, empowering, and uplifting cyclists across experience levels—one group ride at a time. Learn more or get involved at Soul City Cycling’s official website. https://scc-mtcc.clubexpress.com Soul City Cycling Summer Sizzler https://raceroster.com/events/2025/100301/scc-summer-sizzler-2025   Whether you’re new to cycling or a seasoned rider, this episode will inspire you to hop on your bike and join the journey. #SoulCityCycling #OnYourLeftPodcast #Episode8 #CyclingCommunity #MississippiCycling #MajorTaylorClub #RideWithPurpose #BlackCyclistsUnited #GroupRides #CyclingLife #PodcastForCyclists #BikeMississippi #CommunityOnWheels This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

In this episode, host Matt Clem dives into the heartbeat of Mississippi’s endurance scene—the Mississippi Triathlon Club. Whether you’re a seasoned Ironman or thinking about signing up for your first 5K, MSTC has a place for you. Matt sits down with club members to talk about what makes this group special—from year-round training sessions and social events to the powerful community that lifts every athlete, no matter their pace. They also share an exciting vision: bringing a beloved local race back to the Jackson area. Tune in to hear how this volunteer-run club is building something bigger than racing—it’s building a culture of health, encouragement, and connection. #OnYourLeftPodcast #MississippiTriathlonClub #TriathlonLife #DuathlonTraining #EnduranceCommunity #RunBikeSwim #JacksonMSFitness #HealthyLiving #IronmanTraining #LocalRacingRevival This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

Join us on the On Your Left Podcast with Matt Clem as we dive into the incredible stories of local doctor and ultra-distance athlete Rick Yelverton and Mississippi native turned Flagstaff resident Jackson Wolf. Both have conquered the legendary BadWater 135 and are gearing up for the upcoming Cocodina 250 in Arizona. Although Rick had to withdraw from this year's race, he shares valuable insights into the demands of ultra-distance racing, while Jackson talks about his race prep, passions, and what it takes to push beyond limits. Get inspired and discover what it truly takes to conquer these epic challenges! #UltraDistance #BadWater135 #Cocodina250 #EnduranceAthletes #RacePrep #OnYourLeftPodcast This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

In Episode 5 of On Your Left, Matt Clem sits down with his sister, Kathy Clem, to talk about the Good Samaritan Center’s upcoming Kick Up the Dust Trail Run — a community-driven race you won’t want to miss. Joining them is Claire Jungling of runSTRONG, the co-owner (along with her husband Jeremy) of a one-of-a-kind “running gym” based in Flowood, Mississippi. Known for shaking up the local running community with creative events like the Death by 5K race series, and leading multiple training groups, Claire shares insights on coaching, race prep, and the mental game of running. Whether you’re just starting out or chasing a new PR, this conversation delivers inspiration, motivation, and everything you need to know about trail racing and training strong. Sign up for Kick Up the Dust Trail Run: https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=121771 Learn more about runSTRONG and gear up: https://runstrongshop.com/ Listen to On Your Left on your favorite podcast platform — just click below to go directly to the show: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Spotify iHeartRadio Boomplay Pandora #OnYourLeftPodcast #TrailRunning #KickUpTheDust #GoodSamaritanCenter #runSTRONG #DeathBy5K #MississippiRunning #FlowoodFitness #RunningCommunity #MattClemPodcast #Ultrasignup #runSTRONGshop This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

In Episode 4 of On Your Left, host Matt Clem dives into the world of trail running and ultra adventures with three powerhouse guests from the M.U.T.S. Mississippi Ultra & Trail Society You’ll hear from: • Helen Summerford, founding member and Board President of MUTS • Kara Hankins, MUTS Race Director • Tiffany P Green, founding member and the only female Ultra Dog Get ready for a lively, inspiring, and often hilarious conversation about building community through trail running, organizing epic races, and chasing miles with heart and grit. Whether you’re a seasoned ultra runner or just love a good trail story, this episode is packed with energy and authenticity you won’t want to miss. #OnYourLeftPodcast #TrailRunning #Ultrarunning #MUTS #MississippiTrails #WomenWhoRun #UltraDog #OutdoorAdventures #RunningCommunity #TrailLife This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

For 23 years, Fleet Feet Jackson has been at the heart of the local running and fitness community, helping countless runners, walkers, and athletes find their stride. In this episode of On Your Left, host Matt Clem sits down with Jeff Wells, the original founder of Fleet Feet Jackson, and Lesley Holloman, the store’s current owner, to take a nostalgic walk down memory lane. From its early days to becoming a go-to spot for running gear, coaching, and community support, Jeff and Lesley share stories of inspiring athletes, growing the Fleet Feet brand, and their impact on Mississippi’s running culture. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting your fitness journey, this conversation is packed with history, motivation, and the passion that drives the local running scene. Tune in to hear how Fleet Feet Jackson continues to shape the future of running while honoring its rich past! 🎧 Listen now and be inspired by the journey of two leaders dedicated to helping others cross their own finish lines! #FleetFeetJackson #RunningCommunity #FitnessJourney #OnYourLeftPodcast #JeffWells #LesleyHolloman #RunningGear #TrailRunning #MississippiRunners   This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

Mississippi’s mountain biking scene is thriving, but do you know the key players behind the trails? In this episode of On Your Left, host Matt Clem sits down with the leaders of the state’s top MTB associations and SORBA representative Kevin McKone to discuss trail development, advocacy, and the future of mountain biking in Mississippi. Meet the voices shaping your rides: 🚵 Luke Jackson – MSFits MTB (South MS) 🚵 Zack McRaney – SMTA (Hattiesburg) 🚵 Jonny Davis – TCMB (Central MS) 🚵 Mark Arcelle – NMSTA (North MS) Plus, Matt recaps the highlights from last weekend’s MS 50 trail race—what went down, who crushed it, and why this event is a must for any off-road enthusiast. #OnYourLeft #MississippiMTB #MountainBiking #TrailBuilding #SORBA #MSFitsMTB #SMTA #TCMB #NMSTA   https://www.facebook.com/share/19iUm8mHx7/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18tw84kSZY/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://www.facebook.com/share/1ENbn7um1a/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1TmBQtoeQX/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://sorba.org/https://www.facebook.com/share/19iUm8mHx7/?mibextid=wwXIfrhttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/18tw84kSZY/?mibextid=wwXIfrhttps://www.facebook.com/share/1ENbn7um1a/?mibextid=wwXIfrhttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/1TmBQtoeQX/?mibextid=wwXIfrhttps://sorba.org/   This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions. 

In the debut episode of On Your Left, host Matt Clem dives into the rich history and community spirit behind the Mississippi 50, one of the most beloved trail races in the South. Joining him are three key figures of the event: longtime Race Director Dennis Bisnette, who shares insights into what it takes to organize this iconic race; Ethan Mayeu, a dedicated volunteer coordinator and aid station leader, who gives a behind-the-scenes look at the critical role of volunteers; and Jimmy Giles, an endurance athlete taking on the challenge of his first-ever 100-mile race that very weekend. Tune in for a conversation about the passion, grit, and camaraderie that make trail running truly special! This episode is produced by Daniel and Riley Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

New Episode Coming Soon!