The Trailhead

What makes someone want to run their first ultra? And more importantly—what makes them want to come back for a second? The reality is, most people who sign up for an ultra only do one. But why? And how can we help more runners not just finish, but fall in love with the sport? Tune in for tips on running your first - or even tenth - ultramarathon.  In this episode, Buzz and Zoë dig into what it takes to have a meaningful, successful experience at your first ultra, whether you're eyeing a 50K for the first time or looking to refine your approach. They're joined by two powerhouse runners and coaches—Dr. Stefanie Flippin and Krissy Moehl—who have spent years helping athletes navigate the highs, lows, and everything in between when it comes to ultrarunning. What keeps people from coming back after their first ultra? And what can we do to change that? How to transition from roads to trails – Why adjusting your pacing expectations is key, and how to train when access to trails is limited. The best training approach for your first ultra – What really works when it comes to long runs, back-to-backs, and balancing speed with endurance. Mindset shifts that make a difference – From letting go of rigid time goals to understanding why ultras are as much about problem-solving as they are about running. The fueling equation – Why past generations of ultrarunners got this wrong, and how 300+ calories an hour can change your entire race experience. Making ultras more accessible – Stefanie shares what real inclusion looks like in the sport, and why handing someone a race bib isn't enough. Thanks to Our Sponsors! Wahoo KICKR RUN: Take your run training to the next level—whether you're dialing in race-specific pacing, tackling structured workouts, or just escaping the elements. The Wahoo KICKR RUN is the first smart treadmill designed for endurance athletes, with real-road feel and precision control to match your effort. Train smarter and run stronger. Learn more at wahoofitness.com. LMNT: Ultras aren't just about water—you need electrolytes, too. Element makes that part easy, with a science-backed formula and none of the junk you don't need. Our listeners can get a free sample pack with any purchase at drinkelement.com/ultrasignup. Resources & Links Running Your First Ultra by Krissy Moehl – https://krissymoehl.com/ Making Strides Podcast by Stefanie Flippin – Listen Here Got a question for Buzz and Zoë? Email [email protected]

1:42 – Buzz and Zoë dive into how their relationship with running has evolved over the years. They explore what it takes to sustain a lifelong love of the sport—and Buzz dishes out some hard-earned running relationship wisdom.   11:58 – Zoë sits down with Tyler Green and Rachel Drake, a power couple in the ultrarunning world. They share the story of how they first met mid-race (pro tip: always pack soap—you never know when you'll need to impress a potential suitor). They also break down how they juggle elite competition, parenting, and careers while keeping their love for both running and each other alive.   31:59 – Buzz chats with Tabor and Eli Hemming, two of the fastest short-course trail runners in the game. They open up about how they push each other in training and tackle life together—both on the racecourse and on their working ranch in Kremmling, Colorado. Tune in for grounded relationship advice, a dose of competitive fire, and maybe even a ranching tip or two! The Trailhead is sponsored by Running Warehouse. 

In this episode, Zoë and Buzz dive into their personal journeys toward identifying as environmentalists—exploring why that label can feel complicated and what it truly means to take action for the planet. 7:12 Zoë sits down with Running for Real host and former elite marathoner Tina Muir to discuss the power of small, everyday actions in making running more sustainable. Tina shares the surprising challenges that races face when it comes to sustainability and how she began integrating environmental advocacy into her running. 27:51 Buzz chats with ultrarunning legends Scott and Jenny Jurek about their work with Protect Our Winters and why optimism is a powerful tool for climate advocacy. They discuss the importance of persistence in environmental action, the intersection of policy and personal choices, and how runners can lead the charge for a more sustainable future. Tune in for practical insights, inspiring stories, and a fresh perspective on what it means to be a runner who cares for the planet.

Zoë and Buzz dive into what community means to them and why the Keep Trail Running Weird awards matter. Instead of focusing on elite athletes, these awards shine a spotlight on the everyday runners, the quirky characters, and the inspiring individuals who make up the heart of the trail running community. It's our way of celebrating the people who keep this sport vibrant, inclusive, and downright fun 6:44 – We chat with Dwight Swaney, winner of the Favorite Trail Weird award, about how to infuse more fun into every run. 13:12 – Leah Kate Vincent, 2024's Most Inspirational award winner, shares how she encourages her community to hit the trails—even with a busy to-do list. 22:57 – Tony Mendez, 2024's Best Dressed trail runner, gives us tips on embracing the crop top lifestyle and finding joy in the daily grind of running. 32:49 – Heather Westberg, winner of 2024's Best Trail Fail, recounts her wild injury story and how it led her to give back through volunteering. 41:05 – Rich Tenaglia spent 2024 traveling across the U.S. in a van, running as many trail races as possible. He shares his insights on living simply and fully embracing the moment. This episode is a celebration of the quirky, bold, and inspiring people who make trail running the unique and vibrant community we all love. Don't miss it!

00:40 Buzz and Zoë chat about how they connect with nature through trail running, and why all trail runners should think of themselves as environmentalists.  6:48 Zoë interviews Luis Benitez, an environmental leader in the outdoor industry and a passionate advocate for sustainability and environmental stewardship, who has summited Mt. Everest six times. As the first-ever Director of the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office and , Luis brings a unique perspective on the intersection of outdoor recreation, environmental responsibility, and community impact and how all trail runners can be environmentalists.  33:37 Buzz interviews ultra legend Clare Gallagher about how approach to environmental stewardship, and how she finds meaning in her connection to nature offline and on the trails. They dive into her recent race in Bhutan, and how that has shaped her perspective on environmental storytelling and ultrarunning.