Cultra Trail Running

AFB, Anna, and Phred welcome back ultrarunner, musician, and all-around adventurer Liz Derstine. Liz last appeared on Episode 112 talking about her Appalachian Trail FKT, and this time the conversation is about her PCT FKT attempt and her new film Ridgeline.  We drift into the strange and wonderful overlap between running, hiking, and music.  The group talks about balancing creative life with endurance pursuits, from touring with bands to chasing big miles on trails like the Pacific Crest Trail. Liz shares stories from her PCT hike, including desert night hiking, hauling liters of water between sources, and the occasional terrifying snow crossing. Along the way the Cultra crew discusses FKTs, gear organization systems, and the ultrarunning community's habit of generously sharing knowledge with newcomers. There's also a brief memorial for the dearly departed Cultra Karaoke Hotline (thanks, Google), and a discussion of Liz's current composing projects and newsletter Pink Feathers, where she writes about the intersection of music and endurance adventure. Watch Liz's film Ridgeline Subscribe to Pinkfeathers Substack Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Closing music by Suno Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

Anna,  Fred, Josh, and AFB sit down with Amy Rusiecki, the longtime race director of the legendary Vermont 100 Endurance Run. Amy shares the behind-the-scenes realities of directing one of the oldest 100-mile races in the country and how she ended up becoming one of the most respected organizers in the sport. If you love a great story, you've stumbled into a whole pasture of them, like opening the gate and finding the World's Largest Cow waiting for you. Amy talks about her early days in endurance sports, how she transitioned from competitive XC skier and ultrarunner to race director, and the complicated logistics of managing hundreds of runners, horses, volunteers, and aid stations across rural Vermont. The group dives into the balancing act of preserving the history and culture of the Vermont 100 while adapting to the modern ultrarunning world. So many great stories! The conversation also covers the volunteer ecosystem that keeps ultras alive, the unique runner-horse dynamic at VT100, how races survive in an era of permits and land management challenges, and why community is still the heart of the sport. Amy shares how The Vermont 100 Endurance Run has long supported Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, a nonprofit that provides year-round sports and recreation opportunities for people with disabilities. Proceeds from the race help fund adaptive programs like skiing, cycling, paddling, and trail running throughout Vermont. Of course, it wouldn't be Cultra without some tangents along the way, gear talk, race directing war stories, and the usual Northeast trail running chaos. Amy also reflects on what makes the Vermont 100 special, what runners often don't see behind the curtain, and why the race continues to matter to so many people in the ultrarunning community. If you've ever run, volunteered at, or dreamed about the Vermont 100, this episode pulls back the curtain on one of the most iconic races in the sport, and the origin story of Cultra   Learn more about how to support Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sport Vermont 100 Beast Coast Trail Running Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Intro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

Art and Phred dive into treadmill survival strategies, including Phred's classic 1:05 reset method, the magic of a 15% incline, and the universal truth that starting too fast indoors is a bad life choice. Art is eyeing a March 15 return to running, sharing some winter miles at Lincoln Woods and the awkward reality of snowshoeing. The conversation rolls into the chaos of the Umstead 100—a brutally simple crushed gravel grind with a registration process that sells out in minutes and legends like Mike Smith stacking up finishes. Music talk hits peak Cultra with Grateful Dead vibes and "Time Warp" from The Rocky Horror Picture Show landing right in the cadence sweet spot. Cultra Bot drops some Barber shop… As always, the show is powered 112% by listeners, with Patreon support helping upgrade the audio. Support is good. Umstead 100 Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

This week the Cultra Crew AFB and Anna G. talk with Josh Sprague — founder of Orange Mud — about building gear, starting businesses, and adventure racing. Josh grew up on a Kansas farm selling rubber band guns and raising 4-H pigs before working at Walmart and Goodyear. In 2012 he started Orange Mud after getting frustrated with hydration packs that didn't work for runners. By 2014 he quit corporate life and went all in. We also talk adventure racing, the multi-sport sufferfest of running, biking, paddling, and navigating with map and compass plus gear design, heat management, and why Josh only creates products when they're actually better. Josh also runs 7 Clay and Anvil and Acre, all while keeping Orange Mud independently owned. Adventure, entrepreneurship, gear nerdery, and the usual Cultra nonsense. Orange Mud US Adventure Racing Association USARA Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

  Ellie Pell joins AFB, Phred, and Anna G talkin desert DNFs, frozen suffering, Barkley chaos, Olympic trivia, and women's running research, all in classic Cultra style. Ellie's Black Canyon DNF Ellie breaks down her early exit at the Black Canyon 100K after a mile-4 muscle cramp shut things down. Contributing factors: hydration, pacing, and warm-up. Or was it just the body doing what it do? Frozen Snot Report Anna G recaps the brutally cold Frozen Snot Trail 1/2 Marathon—boulder fields, shortened distances, and legendary volunteers. Barkley, Big Races & The Sport's Direction Is trail running evolving, or being packaged? The group dives into what growth means for culture, community, and authenticity. Cultra Matic: Winter Olympics They name all 16 winter sports and invent new ones (ski jump biathlon, endurance figure skating, full-contact 50K speed skating). How to bring Ultra events to the Olympics. Research & Real Talk Ellie shares insights from her weighted vest study on postmenopausal women and as we discuss female participation in trail running. AFB updates listeners on shoulder recovery and the podcast's continued return to weekly episodes. Black Canyon 100k Results Frozen Snot Jared Beasley's Book Connecticut Forest & Parks Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

Cold. Wind. Frozen stream crossings. Dumb ass decision making, or genius? AFB recaps the Real King of Pain in Glastonbury, CT where thigh-deep icy water turned solid led to DQs (sorry Alex, Besic, and Bill), and winter racing felt more like a survival course. Josh and Shan hit Belltown AS, Mark Kelly (in shorts) and fast Tony D braved the road freeze, and Anna G tackled Frozen Snot, and Evil Becky wins Frozen Heart 900 because of course she did. Special guest Ryan Danby reports back from the Frozen Heart 900 and shares his ultra origin story, CT kid turned multi-100 mile finisher at Anchor Down Ultra 24 Hour. He's already signed up again. Because apparently once isn't enough. The crew debates big-money race acquisitions, grassroots trail culture, backyard ultra curious,  bear encounters, bad snowshoe customer service, cats destroying sleep, and Fred's escape plan to Mexico. Apparently AFB and Fred each have 3 cats, and Ryan has 1 dog; so at least you learned something.  Plus we close with 112 Forever  Support the show. Support local races. Keep paddling.  Connecticut Forest and Parks Author Jared Beasley  Frozen Heart 900 Anchor Down Ultra Fleet Feet Grows Connecticut Footprint with Acquisition of Marathon Sports Glastonbury Marathon Sports Acquires six03 Trail Races and Cranmore Mountain Race Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

Martin Janoschek drops in to talk AMC life, from winter leadership courses to stewarding ski trails at Cardigan Lodge. The crew dives into backcountry ski setups (tele, AT, splitboard), ski-leash lessons learned the hard way, and why lodges feel extra magical when it's stupid cold outside. Anna and Josh recap deep-freeze winter hikes in New Hampshire, sharing hard-earned lessons on pacing, layering, keeping food from freezing, and why slow groups can be colder than you expect. Things get real with a sketchy Mount Cardigan after-dark decision, hypothermia talk, and when turning around is actually the win. Plus: Cultra-Matic makes a comeback as the crew tries to rattle off the 10 Essentials from memory, AMC education gets some love, Patreon supporters get shouted out, and ultrarunning legends, big donations, and big race plans round out the episode. Cold weather, good decisions, and a little Cultra chaos. https://amcnh.org/ AMC New Hapshire AMC Winter School Feb 27- March 1 Amber Lynn Constant and an amazing January in the Whites! Video of Free Solo of Taipei 101 Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

Art and Phred talk winter survival mode: dodgy road conditions, shoulder rehab, fitness dips, and why flexible training beats heroic stupidity this time of year. We also review a Canadian Trail Running (Fishing) Magazine article about How to Be a Lifelong Runner. And take a quick yard sale dive into Skimo, just before we thank our Patreons. We finish with a dope Suno generated 112 song. Art's snowy van saga + recovery update Winter marathon training reality checks Cut 112 is happening sign up, crew, pace, or suffer responsibly The Real King of Pain run incoming (stream crossings + party, home by kickoff) Snowy trails vs rocks: pick your poison SKIMO hits the Olympics  trail runners invading winter sports Running long-term: avoid dumb injuries, run happy, not wrecked Burrito League envy and community run shenanigans Shoutouts to the Cultra crew Patreons grinding through winter miles Bottom line: stay active, stay kind, don't take yourself too seriously, and we'll see you out there. Link to How to Be a Lifelong Runner Link to Burrito League  Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Intro music by Nick Byram Outro Music by Suno Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

The Cultra Crew welcomes New Hampshire–based author and risk management executive Ty Gagne for a wide-ranging conversation on mountain rescues, decision-making, and human behavior in the backcountry. How can we have fun, and live to tell about it? Why This Episode Matters Whether you're an ultrarunner, hiker, or weekend adventurer, this episode digs into the uncomfortable but essential truths about preparedness, accountability, and how quickly things can go wrong in the mountains we love. We also open with some details about the Vermont 100 Lottery, and close with some Patreon love! Hosts: AFB, Anna G, Josh G Episode Highlights Ty Gagne's 2008 Franconia Ridge experience and how it changed his relationship with risk What mountain rescues reveal about human decision-making under stress Key themes from That's Where You'll Find Me, The Last Traverse, and The Lions of Winter Experience vs. expertise: why time in the mountains doesn't always equal good judgment The role of ego, optimism, and groupthink in backcountry incidents Leadership and communication failures that commonly precede emergencies Practical takeaways for runners, hikers, and winter athletes in the White Mountains Thank you to Forrest from The Mountain Wanderer Maps and Books for lending me your personal copy of Lions of Winter!  Learn more about Ty Gagne at https://www.fullconditionsnh.com/ty-gagne-about Follow Ty on Instagram @fullconditionsnh Vermont 100 Info Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

Phred recaps finishing the Across the Years Ultra in Arizona, logging another 100-mile effort and marking his 19th consecutive year with a 100-mile finish. The crew swaps ultra lore, legendary runner sightings, and stories from the deep end of endurance running. Plus we shout out our Cultra Fam. Then we go from hot to cold. The conversation shifts into winter running survival mode, covering traction options, screw shoes, Gore-Tex debates, layering strategies, and knowing when to run, walk, or rethink bad ideas on ice. They also preview the Real King of Pain trail run, discuss cold-weather mistakes, alternative winter sports, and even fire-building skills required for upcoming winter races.   Topics Covered Across the Years Ultra recap Fred's 19 straight 100-mile finishes Ultrarunning legends & absurd mileage Winter traction: spikes, screws, Yaktrax Layering rules that (mostly) work Gore-Tex pros & cons Real King of Pain trail preview Winter survival & fire-building   Coming Up Next episode features an interview with Author Ty Gagne on decision-making in extreme winter conditions. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

This solo episode is equal parts major announcement, status update, and classic Cultra over-share. AFB checks in on where the show has been, announces a big geographic expansion for Cultra TRP, lays out full details for the 2026 #CUT112 / #CUT50, and closes with a personal update on a long-overdue shoulder replacement. Intro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

Ian Golden from The Trails Collective, Finger Lakes Running Co., Red Newt Racing joins Evil Becky Burke to talk about the challenges of coaching runners of all ages and abilities.  Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112     

Author Jared Beasley can tell a great story! Including his encounters with Lazarus Lake, where he earned access to cover the Barkley and Backyard World Championship. Jared shares what he learned: Laz isn't testing fitness—he's testing willpower. Jared's new book The Endurance Artist: Lazarus Lake, the Barkley & a Race with No End covers all this and more. The Beauty of Breaking Down Whether dropping at mile 75 or missing a story deadline, Jared finds the same lesson; failure fuels growth. He also recalls witnessing raw humanity at the Backyard, when a Japanese runner and his crew shared a powerful moment of empathy and exhaustion. The Birth of Backyard Ultra The crew dives into how Laz dreamed up the last-man-standing format back in high school and how it's evolved into a worldwide endurance experiment in pain, strategy, and survival. Listen in for: The real story behind In Search of Al Howie Why Laz Lake embraces failure What theater and ultras have in common How you might win a free copy of his new book Buy a copy of The Endurance Artist: Lazarus Lake, the Barkley & a Race with No End Jared on Instagram: @Jaredbnewyork  Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

AFB and Phred cover highlights from the Cat's Tail Marathon, NotchView Invitational, SRT  and Barclay Fall Classic, and Shan Riggs's run across Connecticut (114 of 169 towns done!). AFB shares a knee-busting White Mountains hiking story, his adventures at the Glastonbury Senior Center gym, where he scores a gift basket, and a Woodstock RV trip featuring The Black Crowes. Phred recalls a cross-country road trip full of quirky running stops — from the Corn Palace to the Spam Museum. They rant about Patreon frustrations, pay tribute to Dr. Jack Daniels, and compare Jack LaLanne's stunts to today's fitness influencers — all with that signature Cultra chaos and trail humor. Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

Andrew Drummond is the heartbeat of the White Mountain trail running community -ultrarunner, ski mountaineer, and race director who set the FKT on the Direttissima, summiting all 48 NH 4,000-footers in under five days. We dive into his adventures in ultramarathons, backcountry skiing, and community building in Jackson, NH, including the White Mountain 100, Bubba's Backyard Ultra, and guiding Scott Jurek through the toughest terrain in the East. As our conversation with Andrew unfolds, what emerges isn't just a tale of mountains or miles, but a love story-of place, of lifestyle, of belonging. It's about finding connection, losing it, and carrying that emptiness until the trail brings you back to what makes you whole. White Mountain Ski Company Video of Andrew's Ski Presi Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

AFB and Evil Becky are back with a full plate of races, mountain lore, and more than a few tangents. If you like your trail chatter served awkwardly with Swedish Fish, this one's for you. Shan Riggs is at it again!! Race Recaps: We dive into the Cross Connecticut Run for Mental Health Awareness and Macedonia Trailways in Kent, breaking down the 50K, 25K, and 12K finishers like we were there (spoiler: we weren't). Cats Tail Drama: Evil Becky drops the bomb that she's skipping Cat's Tail on her birthday (Sept 27th). Send your condolences in Swedish Fish. Mountain Madness: We talk Notch View Invitational, CT Donut Run, Escarpment, and why you *must* listen to our Dick Vincent episode if you want your trail cred card stamped. Art also tells us how Mount Washington once ate hikers for breakfast back in 1900. Big Trail Feats: Annie Tilden crushes the Bob Marshall Traverse, and Vigo Fish takes on the Desolation Loop in NH. Patreon Love: Our patrons keep this ship running (and stocked with candy). Huge thanks to Angela and the rest of the gang—progress, grit, and support like yours make the show possible. Wisconsin meet-up incoming! College Cross Country: Evil Becky casually name-drops Emily Mayer at a meet, while her sons make a statement at the University of Hartford Invitational by winning races. Because if you're going to impress a college, might as well take home the W. Community Corner:Judy Proto (yes, the first female NFL kicker), Justin Kowski's new course record, Laz's upcoming Barclays Fall Classic, plus encounters with Bill Odendall, Brian Musiak, Celeste Fong, Cherie and Christine A Chin Hing   It's everything you love about Cultra: history, hilarity, and heaps of community love—with a side of Evil Becky eye-rolls. Shan Riggs Extremely Outside Learn more about Shan's 1100 mile Run and Medals 4 Meddle Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

Phast Phred, Evil Becky, and AFB host Dick Vincent—the man who's been directing the Escarpment Trail Run in the Catskills for 48 years straight. That makes him the longest-serving trail race director in North America. Laddie Lawrence can have the road scene locked down with Westport's summer series, but when it comes to gnarly trails, Escarpment is Dick's kingdom. He's also a guy who kept a 34-year run streak, ran Boston back in '74, and even left seven toenails out on the course at Western States Endurance Run 100 WSER in '86 If you love trail running history, and great stories, this may be the episode for you. Each of Dick's stories could've been its own episode. A streak like that, a Western States war story, and the creation of an iconic race... That's pure Cultra magic. Escarpment Trail Run Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

Krista Petrie and Debbie Clouthier might just be the fastest "slow hikers" you'll ever meet. Joining forces with West Rock Ramblers Anna G(arsten), Josh Gaetjen, and AFB, these Canadian adventurers bring stories that range from the White Mountains to the Arctic and everywhere in between. We first crossed paths with Krista and Debbie during our Owl's Head adventure in the Whites, and immediately knew we had to get them on Cultra.  We expected good stuff, but at times we were flat-out speechless. The conversation covers it all: Trail running and peak bagging in the Whites and Adirondacks Multi-day treks through Iceland, Nepal, and Patagonia Debbie's years cooking in the Canadian Arctic, with wolves, wolverines, and the occasional polar bear for company Krista's transition from competitive soccer to marathon canoe racing—and her not-so-casual run-ins with grizzlies in Kluane National Park Somewhere between wolf attacks, soggy tents, and the classic "mile and a half" sign-off, we also discovered that progressive lenses are apparently mandatory "slide" gear once you hit your 50s. Who knew? Gear nerds, don't worry, we also get into mountain weather prep, bear safety (Polar, Griz, Black, no Panda) and winter hiking essentials like snowshoes, microspikes, and extra layers. Along the way, we debate Adirondacks vs. Whites, swap stories about unexpected trail meetups, and laugh about why some hikers insist on packing half their house "just in case." Spoiler alert: the legendary Debbie Clouthier is 73 years old and still hiking circles around the rest of us—even when we're "running." Follow Krista on Instagram @KPWOUTDOORS Check out KPW Outdoors  Follow Deb on FB Links to Author Eli Burakian  Sorry that I drew a blank during the episode  Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

If we could dream up the perfect trail running club, it would look a whole lot like the Shenipsit Striders. For 50 years, this crew has been building trails, hosting races, and creating a community where everyone: fast, slow, new, or seasoned; feels like family. In this episode, AFB sits down at the Striders' 50th Anniversary 8 Hour Fatass Run and chats with five runners who embody the heart of the club: Tony Bonanno Cherie Bilbie Jillian Ellefson Jake Gaeta Jim Henderson (longtime Strider and keeper of the history books) You may know some of these names already, but if you don't, (where the heck ya been) you'll come away with a deeper appreciation for the people who make the Shenipsit Striders so special. This is an episode about community, longevity, and the joy of running trails together. Q: Did AFB do these interviews so he could sit around and eat all the food? Shenipsit Striders Face Book Shenipsit Striders Events Check out some of Jake's Music Salem Poor Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112   

Episode 334: Judy Proteau and the Race for the Refuge This week we're joined by the one and only Judy Proteau—ultrarunner, race director, Highland City Strider,  kicker for the NFL, and all-around trail badass.  Judy's here to talk about her first year directing the Race for the Refuge, happening September 28th at the Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge in Sudbury, MA.  (You bet your ass...abet!)We get into the behind-the-scenes of putting on a race, tribal land permissions, course marking, volunteer wrangling, post-race beer logistics (yes, that's a thing), and why she's adding a guided one-mile family walk to the event. We also take a trip down Judy's running memory lane—from her "oops I gained a few pounds in my 20s" jogs, to her first marathon at Sugarloaf, to her 50K adventures, to finishing her first 100 at Hamster Wheel.  You'll hear about the 48-hour race where she overheated, dropped, then rallied two hours later to finish with twelve seconds to spare. AFB math: 100 miles plus 12 seconds to spare= 112!  Her mantras? "Get Rich or Die Trying" and "This is for all the cookies in the cookie jar." This is a really amazing story!  Enough said. Other highlights include: Art adopts a new Siamese kitten named Avery 🐾 (and yes, she's already podcast famous). Historical tidbits on King Philip's War and why Sudbury trails are more than just dirt paths. The welcoming vibe of Judy's Highland City Striders, including their "slow and steady striders" crew and Tuesday muffin runs. Denali 135 dreams, Notch View 200 temptations, and a possible Cultra road trip. This one's part race preview, part ultra origin story, and part love letter to the trail community. Judy's enthusiasm is contagious, and we think you'll want to lace up (or volunteer) after listening. It may be the most fun you can have with your clothes on! Links from the show: Race for the Refuge Registration Donate to Race for the Refuge Highland City Striders Running Club Judy's Instagram: @pink_rose_running Judy Hosts a YouTube Channel Runners in Sneakers Getting Coffee BURCS Ultra Running, Ben Double N and company Get your official Cultra Clothes and other Cultra TRP PodSwag at our store! Outro music by Nick Byram Become a Cultra Crew Patreon Supporter  basic licker.  If you lick us, we will most likely lick you right back Cultra Facebook Fan Page Go here to talk shit and complain and give us advice that we wont follow Cultra Trail Running Instagram Don't watch this with your kids Twitter @BlueBlazeRunner Sign up for a race at Live Loud Running and feel better Buy Fred's Book Running Home More Information on the #CUT112