Episodes

1d ago

In this episode, Katie Asmuth and Leah Yingling reflect on a full year of The Trail Network Podcast and a year that reshaped the trail running landscape. They look back on standout moments from the sport and the show, from pregnancies and comebacks to breakthrough performances, surprise podiums, and the rise of longer distances like 200-mile races. The conversation touches on storytelling in trail running, why live coverage and long-form narratives are changing how fans connect to athletes, and how rankings, sponsorships, and community support influence the modern professional runner. They also explore accessibility in trail running, from sub-ultra distances to grassroots races, and share thoughts on training races, recovery, fueling, and setting the tone for the year ahead. It’s a reflective, wide-angle look at where the sport has been and where it’s headed. This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network. A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠. Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout. A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

Dec 12

In this episode, Katie and Leah sit down for a two-host chat that blends life updates with what is happening across the trail and ultra world. They touch on postpartum running, baseline fitness, and how to fit training into real life, including vacations and busy family seasons. The conversation moves through Trail Runner of the Year and Ultra Runner of the Year, why rankings and UTMB index actually matter for pros, and how road races like CIM are shaping trail performances and golden ticket prep. This is a fun one, enjoy! This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network. A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠ . Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout. A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

Dec 5

All four hosts land in one virtual room for the first time in a while, and the episode feels like exactly what the trail community loves about this show: honest life updates, the chaos and joy of parenting and training, and the juggling act of big dreams alongside real-world constraints. The conversation moves through work, family, film projects, postpartum shifts, inspiration, and the long game of returning to form. There's laughter, some exhaustion, a lot of heart, and a shared sense that running evolves with every season of life. The episode captures the feeling of being in transition — rebuilding, rethinking goals, planning races, and remembering why this sport continues to anchor each of them. It’s a warm, open catch-up that invites listeners to take a deep breath, embrace their own season, and keep moving forward in whatever way is possible right now. This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network. A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠. Go to ⁠pfandh.com⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout. A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

Nov 20

This catch up episode leans into the messy, real side of being runners, creatives, and parents while the race season quiets down. Hilary, Katie, and Leah talk openly about what it looks like when running has to take a back seat to big projects, work, and family, how social media and Strava can shape or strain our relationship with the sport, and why it sometimes feels better to keep parts of life offline. They get into gut and health struggles, postpartum recovery, travel with a baby, planning around lotteries and pregnancy deferrals, and why timing big goals to the right season of life matters. It is an honest look at building a life that makes room for both big dreams and real constraints, and finding ways to stay connected to running even when the mileage is low. This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network. A big shout out to our new sponsor ⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠ . Go to ⁠pfandh.com⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout. A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

Nov 12

Olympic bronze medalist Molly Seidel joins Hilary Yang and Katie Asmuth for a candid, thoughtful conversation about rebuilding her relationship with running and stepping into the trail world with intention. She opens up about the long recovery from a broken patella, the emotional work that reshaped her approach to training, and how her anthropology background influences the way she sees sport and culture. Molly shares why trail running feels like the right place for her joy, creativity, and durability right now, how Austin and Flagstaff each support a different side of her life, and what it has meant to find a healthier balance outside of racing. She also reflects on dropping out of the New York City Marathon to protect her progress, learning the logistics of ultras, and future trail goals with equal parts humility and ambition. It’s a grounded, refreshingly human look at an athlete redefining success and finding the confidence to build a career on her own terms. This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network. A big shout out to our new sponsor Precision Fuel & Hydration . Go to pfandh.com to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout. A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

Nov 7

Hilary returns to the podcast after a whirlwind stretch directing the Mammoth events and traveling through Hong Kong and China to film her new documentary project. She’s joined by filmmaker Carrie Highman , her co-director on the upcoming film, for a conversation centered on storytelling, women’s experiences, and the impact of bringing outdoor narratives to life with intention. Carrie reflects on her career and the themes that have shaped her work, from Free to Run , which highlights the barriers faced by women in Afghanistan, to her newest film Off Course , premiering at the Banff Film Festival and exploring the intersection of infertility, identity, and ambition. Together, Hilary and Carrie discuss what it means to create work that inspires women, how filmmaking connects to the spirit of trail running, and why telling honest stories still matters. This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network. A big shout out to our new sponsor Precision Fuel & Hydration . Go to pfandh.com to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

Oct 31

Fresh off Javelina, Leah and Katie set the scene with the weekend’s energy, from a record-setting women’s race to Katie’s own 100K win. The conversation moves quickly into what’s actually working in modern ultras: smarter cooling, sharper crew transitions, and staying present when plans go sideways. Addie Bracy joins with a clear, grounded look at how deliberate heat prep and simple mantras carried her to a golden ticket, and why decoupling identity from outcomes can revive a career. She also shares what’s ahead at SageStone Adventure Lodge, the OutRun community, and her coaching lens heading toward Western States. 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!

Oct 16

Katie Asmuth and Leah Yingling take the mic for a co-host deep dive, opening with a look at Freetrail’s new Big Alta 100K and how it could shape spring racing before reflecting on Kodiak’s UTMB North America Majors and the fatigue of a long season. The conversation moves into racing strategies for inaugural courses, the balance of data and intuition, and what they’ve learned from pacing, crewing, and commentary. Listeners also get a closer look at both athletes—their paths into trail running, perspectives on sponsorship, favorite gear, and the goals driving their next chapters. It’s a relaxed, personal, and insightful episode that captures the friendship, honesty, and love of the sport that define The Trail Network Podcast. 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!

Oct 10

Hilary, Katie, and Leah kick back for a post–Mammoth 200 catch-up. Hilary debriefs year one of directing and alpine 200 (weather reroutes, why mandatory gear mattered, and the real talk on volunteer power and community buy-in). Katie shares end-of-month racing plans at Javelina 100K (plus a little live-stream cameo energy), and Leah opens up about her gradual, low-pressure return to running and the joys/realities of new-mom life. It’s a cozy, candid, all-corners-of-trail running episode. 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!

Oct 4

On this episode of The Trail Network Podcast, host Katie Asmuth sits down with Rachel Entrekin — winner and course record holder of the inaugural Mammoth 200 (46:50). Rachel is fast becoming the modern face of 200-mile racing, blending big-miles durability with smart, minimalist systems. Katie and Rachel dig into how she approached Mammoth (from training blocks to aid-station efficiency), what she learned racing alongside elite competition, and the simple rule that anchors her mindset: don’t quit on the uphill. You’ll also hear practical takeaways on fueling with real food, foot care fixes, when (and when not) to sleep, and how she’s navigating sponsorship while choosing races that light her up. Media Linked: Rachel’s blog: How to Run a Multi-Day Race – Another dumb running blog 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!

Sep 27

In this episode of The Trail Network Podcast , hosts Leah Yingling and Rachel Drake share their excitement for the World Mountain & Trail Running Championships taking place in the Pyrenees in Spain. Drawing from their own experiences representing Team USA, they talk about what makes Worlds so special—its blend of culture, competition, and camaraderie. They highlight the standout athletes to watch across the vertical, classic, short, and long trail races. 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!

Sep 18

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!

Sep 11

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!

Sep 4

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 covered UTMB takeaways: women’s coverage strides, CCC drama, Ruth’s Triple Crown, weather as the main character Breakout results and shoutouts across CCC and UTMB Finish vs DNF: athlete autonomy, changing goals, and seasons of sport A, B, and C goals explained and how they shift mid-race Rachel’s birth story and meeting Chloe Newborn life updates, community support, and kid-friendly adventures Gear notes: soft carriers and being outdoors with babies 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!

Aug 28

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!

Aug 25

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!

Aug 19

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!

Aug 14

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!

Aug 7

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!

Jul 31

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!

Jul 24

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.

Jul 18

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 miles Struggling through severe nausea, multiple vomiting episodes, and long stretches without crew support Mentally navigating the lowest points on course while running almost 12 hours without pacers A dramatic late-race comeback after mile 75 with the help of an incredible crew and pacers Racing the clock to avoid cutoffs, summiting iconic Grant Swamp Pass at sunset, and passing over a dozen runners in the final miles A terrifying fall four miles from the finish and pushing through hallucinations to kiss the rock Hilary and Katie also discuss key takeaways, including: Lessons learned about fueling at altitude and adapting when things go wrong The crucial role of her crew and pacing team in turning the race around Hilary’s thoughts on going back to Hardrock in the future A sneak peek into the upcoming documentary Billy Yang is producing about Hilary’s Hardrock journey This 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.

Jul 18

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.

Jul 3

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 day Why this year’s women’s race coverage felt different—in a good way Stories of resilience, including the Golden Hour Runner and race-day improvisations Pregnant adventuring, postpartum plans, and what’s next for Hilary as she heads to Hardrock Whether 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.

Jun 27

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.

Jun 19

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 all Navigating the overwhelming flood of information in today's media-heavy running scene Training structure for long ultras — whether double runs or extended sessions work best The 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.

Jun 12

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 Race This 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.

Jun 5

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.

May 22

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.

May 16

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 blasters Training on the go—through jetlag, film shoots, and family time The emotional relief of finally getting Mammoth 200 permits cleared How storytelling and racing go hand-in-hand What she’s learned from Cocodona that she’ll bring to the Mammoth 200 And why gratitude is fueling this high-energy, high-output season Whether 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.

May 9

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.

May 2

Leah, Katie, and Rachel catch up to talk all things Canyons 100K, Mt. Fuji, and what’s next. Katie shares an honest look at her experience at Canyons—how the race didn’t unfold as she’d hoped, what she learned through the struggle, and why she’s still proud of what her body accomplished. She also gives a peek into what’s coming up in her training. Rachel reflects on a big life update—her pregnancy announcement—and how crewing for Tyler at Mt. Fuji didn’t quite go as planned. She opens up about the challenges, unexpected emotions, and how she’s processing it all. A conversation about race day lessons, shifting perspectives, and the reality of showing up when things don’t go perfectly. 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.

Apr 24

Leah Yingling and Mike McMonagle (@shitinthewoods) return to the podcast to recap the Gorge Waterfalls race weekend and what it was like running the 50k together. They cover the record-shattering performances at the 100k and debrief the ups and downs of running a 50k with your partner while 5 months pregnant. The good, the bad, and the ugly. We hope you enjoy! 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.

Apr 17

In this week’s episode, Katie and Rachel take the mic to talk about what’s new in their lives and the trail world. Rachel shares what’s ahead for both her and Tyler as they gear up for their trip to Japan and the Ultra-Trail Mt. Fuji—where she’ll be racing the 40k. They dive into how having a big adventure on the calendar can shift your mindset, and how race day conditions play a big role in conversations around course records. Katie gives a training update and reflects on the confidence and joy she’s found lately, and how she’s learning to balance focus with fun. The two also dig into performance strategies, including nutrition, hydration, and the science behind sodium bicarbonate. It’s a thoughtful, fun, and refreshingly honest conversation about racing, training, and finding meaning in the process. 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.

Apr 10

In this episode, we catch up after Katie’s huge accomplishment on the Joshua Tree Traverse, where she set a new self supported FKT! She shares the details of her fueling strategy, how the effort went down, and what she’s thinking as she gears up for the next steps in training ahead of her Golden Ticket chase. We also dive into what makes a good race, from course design to community support, and hear from Hilary about her planning process for The Mammoth 200. She talks about how she’s building a strong volunteer team and creating a meaningful experience around this massive effort. Plus, Leah gives us the scoop on how she’s navigating training and racing a 50k while pregnant. Trail news, upcoming races, and a whole lot of inspiration packed into this one! 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.

Apr 3

It’s been a minute! In this episode, all four of us are finally back together to catch up on life, training, and everything in between. Katie shares details about her upcoming FKT project, and we dive into a conversation about FKTs in general—what they mean, how they’re evolving, and why they’re so compelling. We each give updates on how our training is going, what’s been shifting in our routines, and how we’re embracing change in racing and life. Plus, we talk about the current wave of energy and growth in women’s trail running and why it’s such an exciting time to be part of the sport. 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.

Mar 27

Disability rights advocate, cancer survivor, and social impact leader Nicole Ver Kuilen joins host Katie Asmuth for a powerful conversation about turning personal adversity into purposeful action. Nicole is the campaign lead for So Everybody Can Move and the founder of Forrest Stumps , a nonprofit driving policy change and awareness for equitable access to prosthetic technology. In this episode, Nicole shares her journey as an adaptive athlete, from founding Forrest Stumps to winning the Paralympic Championships. She and Katie dive into the importance of community and support in adaptive sports, the legislative progress being made for amputees, and Nicole’s mission to create inclusive trail spaces for all. Nicole’s story is bold, inspiring, and a true reminder of the power of advocacy. Show notes: soeverybodycanmove.org forreststump.org 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.

Mar 20

Sarah Attar is a gifted photographer, a two-time Olympian, and a trailblazer in every sense of the word. In this episode of The Trail Network podcast, she joins host Hilary Yang for a conversation about the unexpected paths life has taken her on and the lessons she has gathered along the way. Sarah made history as one of the first female athletes to represent Saudi Arabia in the Olympics, competing in track and field in 2012 and 2016. Now based in the Eastern Sierra, she channels her creativity into photography, capturing the essence of place, movement, and connection. Throughout their discussion, Sarah and Hilary explore the intersections of sport, art, and personal growth, reflecting on how intention shapes experiences and how embracing the unknown can lead to the most meaningful adventures. 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.

Mar 13

Ohh Baby! Leah and Mike have some big news to share—Leah is pregnant! In this episode, they reflect on how this life-changing moment is shaping their plans, both on and off the trails. They take a look back at the past few years of training, racing, and tackling adventures like RUFA, and talk about what it means to be an athlete while preparing for parenthood. Leah shares her experience running while pregnant, how it’s shifting her approach to training, and what she hopes to see change for female athletes navigating pregnancy in the sport. Plus, they discuss what they’re most excited for in this next chapter and the lessons they hope to carry forward. Tune in for an honest, heartfelt conversation about balancing competitive goals with the realities of growing a family! 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.

Mar 8

Today, host Katie Asmuth sits down with the legendary Ida Nilsson, a true veteran of the sport. With a career spanning decades, Ida has done it all—from track and cross country to road and trail running, and now even ski mountaineering. In this episode, she reflects on her incredible journey, starting with her athletic upbringing alongside her equally talented siblings, to her time competing at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, and her approach to longevity in the sport. A decorated athlete, Ida has claimed 10 Swedish national titles in track and cross country, two NCAA championships in the steeplechase and 5,000 meters, and a Swedish championship in ski mountaineering. She has spent over a decade competing at the highest level in ultrarunning, securing multiple top-10 finishes at Western States, including an impressive 50-minute improvement in her time last year. Most recently, she took the win at the Transgrancanaria 82K. Ida opens up about injuries, her relationship with food, and the lessons she’s learned throughout her career. It’s an insightful and inspiring conversation—enjoy the episode! 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.

Feb 27

On today’s episode of The Trail Network Podcast, we have Hilary Yang, Leah Yingling, and Katie Asmuth for a catch up episode!We've gotten some great feedback from our listeners just saying that some of their favorite episodes are the ones where we just catch up. So this episode is really just a chance for Leah, Katie and Hilary to connect and see what's been going on in each other's lives. We talk about traning and life updates, gear that we’re loving, finding motivation, and more! Enjoy! 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.

Feb 20

Today, Leah Yingling is joined by Alexis Crellin 🙌. Alexis is a climber, mountain enthusiast, and ultra runner based out of Salt Lake City, Utah. She has two top 20s at UTMB, top finishes at Speedgoat 50k and The Rut 50k and has been crushing it on the mountain scene in Utah and beyond for years. She’s also a prior FKT holder on the Wasatch Ultimate Ridge Linkup (WURL), a rugged 32+ mile high mountain route in the Wasatch. She’s a mom of three adorable kiddos and has been building their resilience in the mountains while also balancing her own athletic endeavors. Alexis shares so many great insights with us, and we’re so excited for you to get to know her throughout this conversation! 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.

Feb 20

Today, Hilary Yang sits down with Katie Asmuth to talk about all things Black Canyon race weekend. Katie ran the 100K, and while she was going for a golden ticket and trying to shoot her shot, the day did not go according to plan. However, they were able to dissect the race and understand where it went wrong and pull out a lot of things that hopefully you all will find applicable to your own races! They got into the weeds with talking about nutrition strategy, gear, fueling, and all of the things that can go wrong and how we can reframe our race days when they don't go according to plan. Katie also talks about staying curious during your race to troubleshoot when things to go to plan. 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! ⁠Take on Barilla’s Protein Pasta Winter Energy Challenge on the Strava Fitness App⁠ Complete 10 days of movement for your Barilla Pasta reward! Go to ⁠https://strava.app.link/barilla⁠ And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠⁠⁠Janji⁠⁠⁠ , use the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

Feb 20

In honor of the Black Canyon 100K race weekend, the Trail Network podcast hosts revisits a heartfelt conversation with Trueheart Brown, the 2022 race champion. Trueheart’s victory at Black Canyon was a breakout performance, winning as an underdog at the age of 41 and fully embracing the spirit of the sport. In this conversation, Trueheart shares insights into his journey as a trail runner, the lessons he’s learned through competition, and how he balances training with life’s many demands. His reflections go beyond racing, offering wisdom about resilience, passion, and staying present in the sport. Whether you're gearing up for a race or simply love the community and adventure of trail running, this episode is full of inspiration. This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network. Take on Barilla’s Protein Pasta Winter Energy Challenge on the Strava Fitness App Complete 10 days of movement for your Barilla Pasta reward! Go to https://strava.app.link/barilla And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠⁠Janji⁠⁠ , use the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

Feb 20

We're so happy you're here with us this week. On this week's episode, we dive into some listener questions and chat about the season ahead. We talk about how we balance being competitive in the sport while holding space for planning for families and motherhood. Another topic is balancing and sharing the sport with a partner. We also cover some world championship qualifiers like Gorge Waterfalls and Broken Arrow. And we dive into our favorite winter running hacks. We hope you enjoy this episode! 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! Take on Barilla’s Protein Pasta Winter Energy Challenge on the Strava Fitness App Complete 10 days of movement for your Barilla Pasta reward! Go to https://strava.app.link/barilla And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠⁠Janji⁠⁠ , use the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

Feb 20

In this episode, Rachel, Leah, Hilary, and Katie reconnect to chat about what’s been happening so far in 2025, sharing hot takes and fun stories about life, training, and adventures. The conversation covers Katie’s upcoming race at the Black Canyon 100k, the inspiring work of The Futurist Project, and a spotlight on incredible female athletes and creatives. They also dive into their favorite gear, the value of storytelling in sports and life, and the little things that are keeping them motivated this year. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or just a good laugh, this episode has something for everyone!! This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network. Take on Barilla’s Protein Pasta Winter Energy Challenge on the Strava Fitness App Complete 10 days of movement for your Barilla Pasta reward! Go to https://strava.app.link/barilla And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji⁠ , use the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

Jan 16

In this episode of the Trail Network podcast, hosts Leah Yingling and Rachel Drake are joined by the incredible Courtney Olsen who had an unforgettable 2024 racing season. Courtney placed third at Comrades, set a world record at the Tunnel Hill 50-Miler, secured a top-10 finish at the World’s 100K Race, and was recently voted number six in the Ultra Runner of the Year rankings. In this conversation, they dive into Courtney’s standout performances on the global stage, where she has represented Team USA in the 50K and 100K World Championships four times, leading many of those teams to podium finishes. Courtney also discusses the importance of strong sponsorships, what it means to build meaningful brand partnerships, and the mindset it takes to achieve success in ultrarunning. Courtney’s authenticity and insights make this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about running and the ultra community. Talking Points: Highlights of Courtney’s incredible 2024 racing season Placing third at Comrades Marathon Setting a world record at the Tunnel Hill 50-Miler Top-10 finish at the World’s 100K Race Representing Team USA in the 50K and 100K World Championships Leading USA teams to podium finishes Insights on meaningful sponsorships and brand partnerships Reflections on her journey in ultrarunning 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 , use the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

Jan 11

In this episode of the Trail Network podcast, hosts Hilary Yang and Katie Asmuth are joined by elite runner and content creator Allie Ostrander. Allie shares insights into her new sponsorship with Oiselle, her experiences balancing a professional running career with content creation, and how she navigates both trail and track worlds. The conversation delves into the lessons she’s learned on the trails, her passion for mental health advocacy, and the hobbies that help her find balance outside of running. It’s a fun and thoughtful discussion that highlights Allie’s journey, her reflections on 2024, and her aspirations for the future. Talking Points: -What shoes Allie is currently using for her runs -Her new sponsorship with Oiselle and why she chose them -Transitioning from NNormal and Brooks Beasts to Oiselle -Navigating contract negotiations with sponsors -How she initially reached out to brands -The many roles Allie juggles as an athlete and creator -Starting her podcast, Every Step of the Way -How her relationship with Spencer Brown has influenced her content creation -Finding hobbies and interests outside of running -Lessons learned on the trail in 2024 -Being coached by David Roche -Prioritizing mental health while striving for peak performance 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! Follow Allie: Allie on Instagram: @allie_ostrander Allie on YouTube: @allie_ostrander Allie’s Podcast: Every Step of The Way

Jan 2

In this special New Year’s episode, hosts Hilary Yang, Leah Yingling, Rachel Drake, and Katie Asmuth come together on New Year’s Eve to reflect on the highs, lows, and lessons of the past year. From creative endeavors and unexpected turns to balancing race calendars with life outside the sport, the hosts share personal insights and what they’re carrying forward into 2025. It’s a heartfelt, honest conversation about growth, adaptability, and big plans on the horizon. Talking Points: A pulse check: how everyone is feeling as the year wraps up What was planned for 2024 versus what actually happened Hilary’s creative pursuits within the sport Balancing individual race calendars with outdoor adventures beyond competition Key lessons learned in 2024 and intentions for the year ahead A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to check out their amazing products! This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network. Happy New Year from the whole team!

Dec 26, 2024

In this episode, hosts Hilary Yang and Katie Asmuth sit down with Tim Tollefson, elite trail runner, race director, and advocate for public lands. Tim shares insights into his life as an athlete, entrepreneur, and partner, while reflecting on the impact of Mammoth Trailfest and the broader trail running community. Plus, Hilary and Tim drop a big announcement toward the end of the podcast that you won’t want to miss! Talking Points: What’s coming up for Tim in 2025 Changes Tim will be making in his training for 2025 Balancing life and training with his partner, Lindsay, and prioritizing both of their careers Tim’s involvement with Runners for Public Lands How trail runners can become better stewards of our surroundings Required trail maintenance as a component of race participation Tim’s journey as a race director and business owner His work as a physical therapist and the leap to leave a traditional job Embracing uncertainty and diving headfirst into new challenges The Mammoth 200 and its vision for the future A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to check out their amazing products! This podcast is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network .

Dec 12, 2024

In today’s episode, Leah Yingling and Hilary Yang share their reactions to being selected for the 2025 Hardrock 100, reflecting on the years of effort it took to secure their spots in the iconic race. They discuss what the event means to them, their thoughts on the course and culture, and how ultrarunning continues to evolve. A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Go to Osprey.com to check out their products! This podcast is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

Dec 5, 2024

Welcome back to the Trail Network Podcast ! Host Katie Asmuth kicks off this special episode alongside her guest and co-host for the day, Dani Moreno. As neighbors and friends in Mammoth Lakes, Katie and Dani bring a unique perspective to this reflective conversation about 2024. Together, they take a month-by-month journey through the year, sharing their favorite races, memorable highlights, and personal anecdotes. Tune in for a great and fun-filled recap that will leave you inspired to reflect on your own trail memories from 2024. If you loved hearing from Dani on this episode, go check out her podcast The Sub Hub Podcast where Dani and EmKay Sullivan chat all about shorter distance trail and mountain races. A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Go to Osprey.com to check out their products! This podcast is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

Nov 28, 2024

In this episode, Rachel Drake and Leah Yingling dive deep into Rachel’s phenomenal performance at the historic JFK 50 Mile, where she not only took the win but shattered the course record. Leah and Rachel talk about the race and the training leading into it. You won’t want to miss it! This podcast is supported by Osprey. Head over to Osprey.com to find the perfect pack for you!

Nov 21, 2024

In this episode, Rachel, Leah, Hilary, and Katie catch up a on all things running and life. Topics we discuss: Strategies for running in the winter Rachel’s training as she prepares for the JFK 50 Mile How to put your ego aside in training Tips for balancing work and training Rachel’s goals and mindset heading into the JFK race

Nov 14, 2024

Today on the podcast, Hilary Yang is joined by Hellah Sidibe and Scott Jurek to recap Hellah’s race with Scott pacing at this year’s Javelina Jundred. Hellah Sidibe is a former professional soccer player who found running during a low point in his life, and he’s been running ever since. He’s had a run streak since May 2017 which he documents through his Youtube channel where he has almost 300k subscribers, and one of his most notable achievements was running across America in 2021, raising money for charity. He’s also known for being vegan, he’s a Hoka ambassador and one of the most relentlessly positive people you’ll ever meet. Scott Jurek is one of the most recognizable names in the sport of trail running, and he’s been running ultras for the last three decades. He has claimed victories in nearly all of ultrarunning’s elite trail and road events including Hardrock 100, Badwater 135-Mile Ultramarathon, and the Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run, which he won a record seven straight times. Scott has also taken the running world by storm with his 2015 Appalachian Trail speed record. Off the trail, Scott is a New York Times-bestselling author for his memoir, Eat & Run , has been prominently featured in countless publications, and is a star of the international bestseller, Born To Run . More than just a champion, Scott is a true student and ambassador of the sport, known to stay at finish lines cheering until the last runner crosses. When not racing, he donates his time to many non profit organizations and is an avid volunteer in the areas of environmental conservation, fitness and health. Topics we cover: Each of their trail running journeys How the sport has changed Various types of training and stress that lead to great performances in the sport Including your children on your adventures Hellah’s decision to run Javelina Jundred Scott’s pacing strategy Fueling strategies This podcast is supported by Osprey. Head over to Osprey.com to find the perfect pack for you!

Nov 7, 2024

Today, Hilary Yang and Leah Yingling sit down and chat with Lauren Peretz. Lauren just finished third place at this past Javelina 100 miler in a blazing fast time of 15 hours and 50 seconds. Lauren's also a physician and a mother as well as being a super fast runner and she's found an impressive life balance as she pursues being as fast as she possibly can in a sport that just keeps getting faster. We are so excited to sit down and chat with Lauren today. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did. Episode rundown: Balance of career, motherhood, and running Her running community Her relationship with her coach, Dr. Megan Roche Getting into the sport and finding a love and talent for trail running Her race at Javelina 100 this past weekend Cooling strategies during the race Reflecting on her race at Western States Where she sees her career going A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Go to Osprey.com to check out their products! This podcast is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

Oct 31, 2024

Today on the show, we welcome Riley Brady, a coach, bike mechanic, and ultra runner living in Boulder, Colorado. They just won the Javelina Jundred miler in a blistering time of 14 hours and 19 minutes, coming in seventh overall. We talked about lessons learned from their previous two Javelina performances, nutrition changes, heat strategies, and so much more. Enjoy this episode with Riley, it's a fun one! A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Go to Osprey.com to check out their products! This podcast is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

Oct 17, 2024

In this episode of the Trail Network podcast, host Leah Yingling welcomes her good friend Lorna Mann, joining from London. Lorna is a passionate trail runner and mountain lover, known for her enthusiasm for park runs, cutoff chasing, and dreaming of the OCC. Together, they discuss Lorna's journey into trail running, exploring the challenges and triumphs of pursuing a five-year goal. This conversation highlights the importance of supporting others in the running community, as Lorna shares her personal successes and failures along the way. This heartfelt discussion celebrates the spirit of community and perseverance in the sport! We hope that you enjoy! What we talked about: 2:10- Introduction to Lorna 3:45- Finding trail running 8:10- Navigating goal setting 31:55- Her recent 50k 40:30- Adventures while on her sabbatical A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Go to Osprey.com to check out their products! This podcast is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

Oct 10, 2024

In this fun episode, we dive into your burning questions and share our insights on a variety of topics! Some topics include: Katie’s return to running Training professionally and balancing a full time career navigating safety while trail running Menstrual cycles Pregnancy and training/racing Efficiency at aid stations Most memorable races Summit snacks A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Go to Osprey.com to check out their products! This podcast is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

Oct 3, 2024

In this special episode of the Trail Network Pod, all four co-hosts—Hilary Yang, Rachel Drake, Leah Yingling, and Katie Asmuth—come together for a rare and exciting conversation. We start off by catching up on our summers, sharing stories that highlight the adventures, misadventures, and the ups and downs we've experienced over the past few months. As we reflect on our individual journeys, we discuss the valuable takeaways we've gleaned along the way and how we plan to apply those insights moving forward. This episode serves as a collective reflection on our current paths, and we hope that you, our listeners, find inspiration and connection in our shared experiences. Join us for an engaging and heartfelt discussion—we're thrilled to share it with you! A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Go to Osprey.com to check out their products! This podcast is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

Sep 26, 2024

Today's host, Katie Asmuth, chats with Rachel Drake and Anna Gibson, who recently had an epic collaboration at the Mammoth Trail Fest. Both raced for a podium spot, and in this episode, they share their thoughts and experiences during the event. Listeners will get a step-by-step account of what unfolded, along with insights into their backgrounds. Enjoy! Key topics: Goals and expectations going into Mammoth Trail Festival Training for a lot of vert The differences in their training leading into the race Mentality while racing The American women coming out strong at the Mammoth Trail Festival What’s next for both of them A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Go to Osprey.com to check out their products! This podcast is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

Sep 19, 2024

In this episode of the Trail Network Podcast, Rachel Drake welcomes her husband, Tyler Green, and close friend, Leah Yingling. Tyler and Leah reflect on their experience at the Run Rabbit Run Hundred Miler, where Leah secured an impressive second place finish, and Tyler followed closely in fourth. Together, they also achieved a commendable second place in the team category as "Team Greenling". Despite feeling a bit disappointed with their individual results, Rachel leads a deep and insightful conversation about the ups and downs of their race day. The discussion delves into the valuable lessons they learned throughout the event and how they navigated the challenges they faced. Key Topics: Recap of the Run Rabbit Run Hundred Miler Individual experiences and team dynamics Reflections on race day performance Lessons learned from both successes and setbacks A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Go to Osprey.com to check out their products! This podcast is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

Sep 12, 2024

In this episode, Hilary sits down with the remarkable Emily Hawgood for an engaging conversation that delves into her trail running career, her upbringing in Zimbabwe, and her recent race experiences. Emily's joyful approach to life profoundly influences both her racing and her general outlook. Emily, a cherished friend of Hilary’s, boasts an impressive record in the world of ultra marathons. Her achievements include multiple podium finishes and top 10 placements at some of the most challenging races globally. Highlights include four top 10 finishes at the Western States Endurance Run, a second-place finish at CCC in 2023, and two sixth-place finishes at UTMB in 2022 and 2024. Emily's infectious enthusiasm and positivity shine through in her approach to life and running, making this conversation not only inspiring but also a delightful experience. Tune in to enjoy this vibrant and uplifting episode with the one and only Emily Hawgood. What we talked about: 1:35- Recapping Emily’s summer of racing 8:10- Her introduction to the sport of trail running 18:00- How she grew up with running being focused on fun 26:00- Her introduction to ultrarunning 32:00- Respecting the mountains 42:30- The incredible improvements in the women’s fields in ultrarunning 50:45- Her involvement with coaching 57:00- Her focus on her nutrition and how it impacts training 1:02:00- Message to her younger self about going after the things you want in life 1:14:25- What’s next for Emily A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Go to Osprey.com to check out their products! This podcast is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

Sep 5, 2024

In this week's episode, Leah Yingling is joined by co-host Katie Asmuth as they debrief all things UTMB this year. It was an incredible year to follow the race, with many breakthroughs on the women's side and some impressive underdog performances on the men's side. They discuss Leah's experience crewing for her husband Mike, as well as Katie's experience following the race from home. We hope that you enjoy the episode! A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Go to Osprey.com to check out their products! This podcast is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

Aug 29, 2024

Today, Leah Yingling and Hilary Yang are joined by Lucy Bartholomew in Chamonix ahead of this week's UTMB. Lucy will be lining up at her second UTMB. She placed 10th here last year in the women's field in a really exciting race. In this episode, we get to chat with Lucy about her buildup to UTMB, what she learned last year, her entire history over the last 12 years in the sports, and her recent coaching relationship with Jason Koop. We hope that you enjoy this episode! A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Go to Osprey.com to check out their products! This podcast is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

Aug 22, 2024

Today, Katie Asmuth interviews Mary Denholm, who is this year's Leadville 100 champion. She was 16 minutes off Ann Trason's 30 year old course record at Leadville. And, this was her debut 100 miler, such an incredible performance! This interview is packed with gems and Mary has so much wisdom to share with the listeners - enjoy! What we talked about: 2:05- Mary’s history in running 10:15- Getting into coaching while still competing 20:00- The value of trail running and how it benefits your road running 24:10- Her plans for her future of running 29:40- How running has made an impact on her whole personal running 43:30- Eyeing the course record for Leadville 100 and how the race played out A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Go to Osprey.com to check out their products! This podcast is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

Aug 15, 2024

Today, Katie Asmuth chats with Tara Dower and Devon Yanko. Devon paced Tara at the Hardrock 100 just a couple of weeks ago. They were very real and honest while sharing their story about what Tara went through during that race, what Devon went through to get her through that race, and generally their takeaways and life lessons learned. We think you're gonna enjoy this one. It was a real treat! What we talked about: 1:50 - Catching up with Tara post race 4:40 - Devon getting the call to pace Tara 7:40 - Devon’s history with Hardrock 9:35 - Tara’s race plan 14:40 - Breaking down some of the sections of the course 17:25 - Stomach issues she has during races and fueling strategies she learned in this race 26:30 - Her mindset when she’s feeling sick during the race so early on 28:20 - Getting to the Ouray aid station 31:10 - Her mindset at this point of her race and if she was still competing to podium 32:25 - Picking up Devon as a pacer and her thoughts at this point 36:05 - Her competitiveness that both helped and hurt her during the race 39:10 - The journey up Handies Peak 46:50 - Leaving the Burros aid station and heading to Sherman 56:25 - The final segments and making some passes 60:20 - Coming down the finishing chute 61:45 - Devon’s takeaways from Hardrock 64:20 - What’s next for Tara and Devon 68:10 - Each of their outlets outside of running A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Go to Osprey.com to check out their products! This podcast is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

Aug 8, 2024

This week, Leah Yingling and Hillary Yang catch up on where they've been and what they've got on the horizon. They chat about Hilary's upcoming plans for her first 200 mile race, which is this week at the Bigfoot 200. They talk about the Here for the Women's Race T-shirt and Women's Trail Running Fund initiative. And we hear a little bit about Leah's next month in Europe. We also want to take a moment to dedicate this episode to Maddie Giegold. Maddie Giegold was a friend to us all and unfortunately passed away in the last couple weeks. Maddie, we love you, we miss you, and thank you for everything that you've given us. A special thanks to Osprey for their support. The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

Jul 25, 2024

In this episode, hosts Rachel Drake and Katie Asmuth catch up on life after a busy few weeks! Rachel shares with us about how she is settling into living in Salt Lake City and recovering from Western States. Katie fills us in on her recent backpacking trip and her experience being at Hardrock 100. This is a fun one, friends - enjoy! A special thanks to Osprey for their support. The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

Jul 18, 2024

On this week’s episode, we chat with Alex Staten and Stefanie Flippin. Alex is a trail and ultra runner from Fayetteville, Arkansas, a Diné and Mexican woman, and this year’s Gu Energy Labs and Rising Hearts athlete in the Western States Endurance Run. If you followed along with Golden Hour at Western States, you followed Alex’s journey from Olympic Valley to Placer High, where she missed the cut off on the track by 2 minutes and 50 seconds. Her day was one of rising above countless challenges and willing her body to the finish line, for reasons far beyond herself. Stef Flippin is a professional trail and ultra runner for Gu Energy labs and lululemon, physician, coach, and podcast host. She had the privilege of being a coach and holistic mentor for GU’s and Rising Hearts’ diversity runners at this year’s edition of Western States. Stef and Alex formed a lasting bond over the last year as a result of Alex’s journey to Western States. We hear about Alex’s history in ultrarunning, Alex and Stef’s coaching relationship, her WSER build, her involvement with Trail Sisters in Arkansas, the partnership between Rising Hearts and Gu Energy Labs, and ultimately, how Alex’s day at Western States played out. A special thanks to Osprey for their support. What we talked about: 2:35- Alex’s introduction to trail running 7:45- Stefanie’s relationship with Gu and passion for coaching 11:10- What was different for Alex for Western States versus her first 100 miler 15:35- Stefanie’s experience tailoring Alex’s training for Western States 20:00- What Alex’s training block looked like going into Western States 27:30- Being involved with the Trail Sisters organnization 34:50- Alex recapping her race start to finish 51:30- Alex’s crew during the race 55:00- When cutoffs came into play 1:06:30- Stefanie’s view of Alex’s finish 1:12:30- Running with Purpose 1:14:35- What’s next for Alex The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

Jul 11, 2024

Today, Katie Asmuth and Hilary Yang interview Rod Farvard and Tim Tollefson (Rod's pacer at Western States). Rod had a magical day at Western States, running head-to-head with the legend, Jim Walmsley, for a second place finish, making him the third fastest person to run Western States in 51 years with a finish time of 14:24 and 15 seconds. And as you probably know, those seconds really mattered at the end. He speaks of his self-belief, running in the moment, and shooting your shot. We know you're gonna love this one! A special thanks to Osprey for their support. What we talked about: 2:25- Rod’s recap of the race 5:35- Tim’s reflections on the race 21:15- Rod's races leading into Western States 23:35- Tim and Rod recapping and reflecting on Rod's whole race 51:10- Jim’s final pass 1:01:25- Hayden catching Rod and Tim’s perspective on that 1:10:10- Rod’s dream to win the race The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

Jul 5, 2024

In this conversation, Rachel and Leah recap their Western States 100-mile race. They discuss their strategies during the race, including pacing and managing splits. They also talk about their experiences at aid stations and how they stayed focused and composed throughout the race. The conversation covers themes such as goal setting, pacing, and staying calm under pressure... plus some puke stories, a skunk encounter, and more! We hope you enjoy this special episode. A special thanks to Osprey for their support.

Jun 20, 2024

This episode is made possible by Arc’teryx. Today, you're about to listen to two legends in ultra running, Clare Gallagher and Brittany Peterson, who give a play-by-play recount of their historic 2019 Western States battle for first and second, a race that many people, myself included, believe changed ultra running forever. Today's episode is hosted by Katie Asmuth! Arc’teryx took their obsessive design approach and applied it to the most important point of contact with the mountains: your feet. Because when you’re out there, every step matters. Introducing the Sylan Shoe, which features a propulsive rocker, grippy Vibram outsole, and a cushy midsole to help you cover those mountain miles. What we talked about: 2:15- Reflections on that race 4:55- Brittany’s mindset heading into the race 7:05- Clare’s mindset heading into the race 13:15- Breaking down the first half of the race 19:15- Leading up to their big race to the finish 32:55- Brittany’s mindset during the chase of Clare 42:45- Brittany making the pass 53:00- The final push where Clare secured the win 1:06:25- Favorite memories and reflections from the race Show notes: Follow The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

Jun 13, 2024

This episode is made possible by Arc’teryx. In today's episode, Hilary sits down with Corrine Malcolm. You all know her and love her as one of the primary broadcast voices in ultra running media today. She's also the host of the Trail Society podcast, the Editor in Chief of Free Trail, a professional runner for Adidas Terrex, and in her spare time, she's also a coach and a real-life scientist. In this episode, we talk about how Corrine first got into trail running, what led her to dive into the world of ultra running media, and all of the ways that we are both passionate about elevating women's voices in our sport through media and storytelling. Arc’teryx took their obsessive design approach and applied it to the most important point of contact with the mountains: your feet. Because when you’re out there, every step matters. Introducing the Sylan Shoe, which features a propulsive rocker, grippy Vibram outsole, and a cushy midsole to help you cover those mountain miles. What we talked about: 2:15- Catching up with Corinne 8:30- Hilary and Corinne’s friendship 14:55- Her intro to sports broadcasting for running 26:30- How her role in media has impacted her own sports performance 30:30- Coverage of women’s sports 38:00- What Corinne sees for the future of broadcasting the sport 43:00- What’s next for Corinne 46:00- Navigating wildlife in ultrarunning 47:40- The project that Corinne and Hilary are working on for women’s sports Show notes: Follow The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

Jun 6, 2024

This episode is made possible by Arc’teryx. In this week's episode, Leah Yingling and Rachel Drake sit down and talk about some happenings in their lives, Rachel's recent graduation and move to Salt Lake City, and sharing takeaways from the Western States training camp. Arc’teryx took their obsessive design approach and applied it to the most important point of contact with the mountains: your feet. Because when you’re out there, every step matters. Introducing the Sylan Shoe, which features a propulsive rocker, grippy Vibram outsole, and a cushy midsole to help you cover those mountain miles. What we talked about: 2:30- All of the changes in Rachel’s life 6:35- Leah’s updates 7:55- Western States training camp 19:15- How Rachel has balanced parenting and training for Wester States 23:20- Some of the training runs and workouts they did at Western States 33:40- Looking ahead to the Western States race! Show notes: Follow The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

May 30, 2024

This episode is made possible by Arc’teryx. Today, Katie Asmuth chats with Eszter Csillag. Eszter is a professional ultrarunner for Hoka and the mom of two girls, and just defended her PhD in art history this year. We recorded in person at our Airbnb in Old Town Auburn at Western States Training camp which really kicks of Western States season! Today, we learn about Eszter’s background with running, how we worked together for 3rd at 4th at Western States last year. She spoke about the attempt at Western States and UTMB in the same year, what she thinks about failure, and the races she has dominated since then. Eszter shares about what she calls “the machine” - the community of help that it takes to make this all happen. We hope that you enjoy this episode and that you’ve caught Western States fever like both of us! Arc’teryx took their obsessive design approach and applied it to the most important point of contact with the mountains: your feet. Because when you’re out there, every step matters. Introducing the Sylan Shoe, which features a propulsive rocker, grippy Vibram outsole, and a cushy midsole to help you cover those mountain miles. What we talked about: 2:45- Racing Western States 3:30- Her intro into the sport 6:55- How her family has shifted to allow her to chase her dreams in the sport 15:00- Western States 2023 22:05- What’s different for Eszter heading into Western States this year 25:35- How she made a comeback after a tough race at UTMB last year 27:30- Receiving a PhD in art history 29:55- Fighting for equality for women in sport Show notes: Follow The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

May 23, 2024

This episode is made possible by Arc’teryx. Today, Rachel and Hilary sit down with Sally McRae for a soul-filling conversation. We talk about balancing careers with family, staying true to your north star in life, and the power of knowing who you really are. We hope that you come away from the conversation feeling inspired to live each day as fully as possible! Arc’teryx took their obsessive design approach and applied it to the most important point of contact with the mountains: your feet. Because when you’re out there, every step matters. Introducing the Sylan Shoe, which features a propulsive rocker, grippy Vibram outsole, and a cushy midsole to help you cover those mountain miles. During the month of May, ⁠join the Arc’teryx Run Free Challenge on Strava⁠ , and run, walk, or otherwise cover 40 total miles to be entered to win one of 40 pairs of the new Sylan shoes. What we talked about: 3:30- Our connection to Sally 10:30- Motherhood and sport and how that has shaped her career 57:10- Sally’s family and the team they have built together 1:12:00- Words of wisdom for Western States Show notes: Sally's Website Follow The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

May 16, 2024

This episode is made possible by Arc’teryx. Today, Leah chats with Careth Arnold. Careth is a professional runner for Altra and is based in Colorado. She is a mother, an artist, a horticulturist, and recently she earned a Golden Ticket to Western States by finishing 4th at the Canyons 100k. In this episode, we chat about her ultrarunning journey and what it really means to balance being a mother while striving to be her best on the trails. Arc’teryx took their obsessive design approach and applied it to the most important point of contact with the mountains: your feet. Because when you’re out there, every step matters. Introducing the Sylan Shoe, which features a propulsive rocker, grippy Vibram outsole, and a cushy midsole to help you cover those mountain miles. During the month of May, join the Arc’teryx Run Free Challenge on Strava , and run, walk, or otherwise cover 40 total miles to be entered to win one of 40 pairs of the new Sylan shoes. What we talked about: 2:30- Introduction to Careth 6:05- Jumping into the trail and ultra running world 8:15- Recapping here tough and transformational year of 2023 13:45- Running postpartum 19:50- What her current training is looking like 27:00- Snagging her Western States Golden Ticket 28:35- Her training heading into Western States Show notes: Follow The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

May 2, 2024

Welcome back to the Trail Network podcast. Today, Katie, Hilary, Leah, and Rachel sit down for another heart to heart episode. We just jumped right into this episode about Katie finding joy pinning a bib for the first time in 10 months and Rachel's travel mishap and trying to get to Madeira. We also chatted about all of the insane racing that went down last weekend, like Golden Trail Series event, Ultra Trail Mount Fuji, and the throw down at Canyons and how we think the livestream coverage could have been much better. The bulk of the conversation is about how we can all hold media coverage accountable so that viewers can enjoy equal coverage of the men’s and women’s races. Let's dive right in. What we talked about: 2:30- Katie’s first gravel race 8:05- Rachel’s travel troubles to Madeira 11:30- Golden Trail Series 17:30- The Canyons Endurance Runs and a conversation on media coverage for women 52:00- What we're loving! Show notes: Follow The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Thank you to Osprey for supporting The Trail Network Podcast. Check them out at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Osprey.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

Apr 25, 2024

Welcome back to The Trail Network podcast. On this week's episode, we get together to catch up about what's been going on since the last time we chatted. We hear from Hilary about her race at Leona Divide, Rachel about her upcoming race at Madeira, and we hear about Katie's first gravel race. We also dive into some thoughts on coaching and figuring out what works best for you. We hope that you enjoy this episode! What we talked about: 1:40- Hilary’s 55k race 10:50- Training your gut for your fueling strategy 14:20- Training for the heat of races 24:10- The camaraderie of trail running 37:10- Should you have a coach? Show notes: Follow The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠ Thank you to Osprey for supporting The Trail Network Podcast. Check them out at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Osprey.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

Apr 22, 2024

In this episode, we have a nice heart-to-heart about all of the happenings in our lives. Katie talks about her new gravel biking career and her difficult decision to withdraw from Western States 100 miler this year. Leah shares about how she listens to her body as she is recovering from FURTHER and honoring the time that it takes from such a monumental effort. Hilary talks about her 200 mile race later this summer and how she is balancing training with all of her creative work. Rachel shares about the season that she is in with parenting, an upcoming move to Salt Lake City, and training for Western States. What we talked about: 1:55- Katie’s decision to not race at Western States 9:15- Katie’s biking adventures 14:55- How Leah is feeling coming off of FURTHER 22:15- Hilary’s upcoming 200 mile race 30:35- Some hallucinations on the trails 32:10- Caffeine in trail races 35:00- Training and racing the same event as your partner 37:35- Rachel’s upcoming move and Western States Show notes: Follow The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ Thank you to Osprey for supporting The Trail Network Podcast. Check them out at ⁠⁠⁠⁠Osprey.com⁠⁠⁠ The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

Apr 18, 2024

On this episode, we dive into Rachel's win at the Gorge 30k last weekend. We talk about how she fueled her day and some of the ways that we adapt our nutrition needs depending on the race length and conditions. We also talked about some of our go-to pre-race meals. We shared some of our thoughts on paying attention to your body and your perceived effort while training and the importance of running your own race no matter what. We hope that you'll take away some useful tips for your own races! What we talked about: 2:30- Rachel’s big weekend 8:30- How media has changed in the sport 11:25- Fueling strategies 30:50- Rachel’s takeaways from the Gorge Waterfalls 30k 33:15- Overdoing it in races 35:15- Pre-race meals 38:40- Caffeine before races 42:55- Things we’re loving Show notes: Follow The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to The Trail Network on ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ Thank you to Osprey for supporting The Trail Network Podcast. Check them out at ⁠⁠⁠⁠Osprey.com⁠⁠⁠ The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

Apr 11, 2024

Today, Katie Asmuth is joined by Maddie Giegold. Maddie is a chief emergency medicine resident at UCSF and also a trail runner. She is passionate about wilderness medicine and event medicine. She loves trail running, gravel cycling, jumping into cold bodies of water, sleeping outdoors, flowers, and double-fisting ice cream. She is also a junior ranger at 19 national parks and wilderness areas. In this episode, we talk about experiences with medical direction in races such as The Mammoth Trail Fest and the Lululemon FURTHER event. She'll also be at Western States and Broken Arrow this year. We talk about the challenges of medical response in remote areas where resources are limited. We also talk about her passion for merging her life as a trail runner with emergency medicine. What we talked about: 2:20- Where school and life have taken her 3:40- Finding the love for trail running and goals looking ahead at her trail running career 8:00- Combining her love for racing and medicine 15:35- Limitations to medical practice during ultra races 21:25- Her role at FURTHER 26:50- Making the decision to allow a runner to keep going versus pulling them from the race 31:20- How FURTHER could change the landscape of medical directing during ultra races Show notes: Follow The Trail Network on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Subscribe to The Trail Network on ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ Thank you to Osprey for supporting The Trail Network Podcast. Check them out at ⁠⁠⁠Osprey.com⁠⁠ The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

Apr 3, 2024

Welcome back to the Trail Network! Today, Leah sits down in person with professional runners and partners Adam Peterman and Erin Clark from Montana. Erin is a Nike sponsored athlete and one of the hardest racers that we know. She most recently had a win at the 2023 Lake Sonoma 50 miler and a 7th place finish at the 2022 CCC. Adam is a Hoka sponsored athlete with an undefeated track record in ultramarathons including wins at Western States and the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships. On this episode, we dive into the past year of their mutual ups and downs, their relationship as two professional athletes, and what has been giving them confidence these days. We also talk about Adam’s return to racing, most recently his battle with Devin Pancake at the Buffalo Run 50k this past weekend in Salt Lake City. We hope that you enjoy this conversation! What we talked about 3:10- Adam’s comeback to racing 7:25- Erin’s past year of training and injuries 10:35- Where Erin finds confidence amidst injury 13:00- Handling the highs and lows in running and their relationship 17:10- How they influence each other’s training 20:40- Finding confidence from their training 24:15- Comparing yourself to your previous self when returning from injury 27:00- Proudest moments while supporting each other Show notes: Follow The Trail Network on ⁠Instagram⁠ Subscribe to The Trail Network on ⁠YouTube⁠ Thank you to Osprey for supporting The Trail Network Podcast. Check them out at ⁠⁠Osprey.com⁠ The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠⁠

Mar 28, 2024

In this episode, Rachel is joined by Francesco Puppi and Matt Daniels. These two just finished first and second at the Chuckanut 50k, both breaking the previous course record set by Max King. In this episode, they talk about their head to head battle at the Chuckanut 50k and what transpired over the race. They talk about what it was like to be so close to a competitor for such a long time and the special connection that they developed by racing one another. What we talked about: 1:25- Catching up with Matt and Francesco and how they are feeling coming off of the race 3:40- What’s next for Matt, racing at the Gorge Waterfalls 100k 4:50- What’s next for Francesco, racing Lake Sonoma 6:20- Their rivalry origin story 9:15: Francesco’s race plan for Chuckanut 50k 11:45- Matt’s race plan for Chukanut 50k 14:20- The breakdown of their head to head 21:50- The value of having each other to compete against 24:00- The connection in trail running 28:20- Their reflections on their experience going head to head Show notes: Follow The Trail Network on Instagram Subscribe to The Trail Network on YouTube Thank you to Osprey for supporting The Trail Network Podcast. Check them out at ⁠Osprey.com The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠ Photo Credit: Somer Kreisman

Mar 28, 2024

In this episode, Hilary is joined by Leah Yingling and her husband and partner in crime Mike McMonagle as they dive into her recent experience racing at Further, Lulelemon’s ultra running event. They take a closer look at what goes into both running and crewing a six day race, dissect a few mid-race breakdowns, and both Mike and Leah share with us some top tips that they’ve learned from this crazy experience that we can all apply to our own races! What we talked about: 1:25- Leah running FURTHER 8:55- Mike’s role in FURTHER 12:25- Leah’s race strategy 2:20- Mike’s experience being on Leah’s crew 28:55- Lowest moments throughout the race 34:55- Leah’s mentality during the race 43:45- Lessons learned from the FURTHER event Show notes: Learn more about the FURTHER event here Follow The Trail Network on Instagram Subscribe to The Trail Network on YouTube Thank you to Osprey for supporting The Trail Network Podcast. Check them out at ⁠Osprey.com⁠ The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠

Mar 28, 2024

The Trail Network is hosted by ultra runners Leah Yingling, Rachel Drake, Katie Asmuth, and Hilary Yang. Together, they bring the untold stories of magical moments amongst trail runners to life. These stories of runners on and off the trail capture the essence and heart of trail running, and the power of friendship and connection. You’ll find inspiration, community, and a reminder of why we run. In this episode, you’ll hear the why behind the Trail Network Podcast and a backstory of all of the hosts running journeys! What we talked about: 1:15- The why behind The Trail Network Podcast 5:20- Katie’s story with trail running 7:25- Hilary’s story with trail running 10:00- Rachel’s story with trail running 12:40- Leah’s story with trail running 19:15- Rachel’s recent success at Black Canyon and balancing training with her life 23:10- Katie’s injury battles 29:40- Leah’s race at Lululemon’s FURTHER Show notes: Follow The Trail Network on Instagram Subscribe to The Trail Network on YouTube Thank you to Osprey for supporting The Trail Network Podcast. Check them out at ⁠Osprey.com⁠ The Trail Network Podcast is edited and produced by ⁠Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network⁠