EP 705: Packing Smart: The Do’s and Don’ts of Ultra Drop Bags
Release Date: 11/29/2024
EP 728: Be Kind to Yourself-Secret Weapon at Arizona's Monster 300
Trail Runner Nation
In this episode, ultra-endurance athlete recounts her transformative experience running the , a race that pushed her beyond her limits. She talks about her essential strategies for success in ultra-running, including the importance of sleep, hydration, nutrition, and terrain research. Lucja highlights how positive self-talk, mental resilience, and a supportive community played key roles in overcoming physical and emotional challenges. Her journey from a non-athlete to a seasoned ultra-runner offers inspiration and practical insights for anyone facing extreme endurance events. The episode also...
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EP 727: Endurance Beyond the Finish Line
Trail Runner Nation
In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we explore the gritty world of endurance sports with ultrarunner and guest , author of . The conversation weaves through incredible feats like the Boston Double—an underground marathon challenge—and the icy realm of cold water swimming, examining the physical and mental resilience these sports demand. Shannon shares powerful stories from her book, reminding us that endurance is less about podiums and more about perseverance, preparation, and inner drive. They highlight the deeply personal nature of endurance, the role of community support, and...
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EP 726: Ultrarunning’s Past Was Wilder Than You Think
Trail Runner Nation
To really understand who we are as a running community—What drives us, what connects us, and why we keep pushing our limits, we have to look back. Long before ultras, Strava segments, or finish-line belt buckles, there was pedestrianism—a 19th-century spectacle where athletes raced for six days straight inside smoky arenas, cheered on by thousands. Our resident ultrarunning historian, , is back to introduce us to one of the most unforgettable figures from that era. Peter Napoleon Campana—better known as Old Sport. Davy just published another book, his historical...
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EP 725: What Every Young Athlete—and Parent—Should Know About Nutrition
Trail Runner Nation
We all know that nutrition is essential for peak performance—but for young athletes, it’s so much more than just fuel. In this episode, we’re joined by expert coach and author to explore how nutrition supports adolescent athletes as they navigate growing bodies, shifting hormones, academic pressures, and evolving relationships. Michele shares insights from her book on how parents, coaches, and mentors can guide youth through healthy meal planning, hydration, and recovery. We also discuss the impact of energy drinks, body image concerns, and the early signs of nutritional issues. With...
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EP 724: Why Most Athletes Get Carbs Wrong
Trail Runner Nation
Are you fueling your endurance training the right way—or are outdated carb myths holding you back? In this episode, we’re joined by sports dietitian Bob Seebohar to explore the evolving science behind carbohydrate consumption in endurance sports. We discuss how nutrition periodization, metabolic flexibility, and gut training can transform both performance and recovery. Bob challenges the one-size-fits-all approach to sports nutrition, emphasizing the need for personalized plans that align with each athlete’s physiology and goals. From managing GI distress to optimizing glycogen storage...
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EP 723: The Power of Discomfort
Trail Runner Nation
What if we told you that putting yourself in controlled, uncomfortable situations—like ice baths, fasting, or extreme endurance events—could make you a better runner and a better human? In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, Don and Scott explore the science and strategy of discomfort, challenging the idea that comfort is always the goal. They discuss how modern “comfort culture” may actually be dulling our resilience, while ancient traditions, military training, and endurance sports all use discomfort as a tool for mental and physical growth. Ice baths become a central metaphor...
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EP 722: The Explorer's Gene: Understanding Our Drive for Adventure
Trail Runner Nation
What drives us to venture into the unknown—even when there’s no finish line or prize at the end? In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we sit down with author and science journalist to explore the ideas behind his new book, . From ancient Polynesian voyages to backyard adventures with his kids, Alex uncovers how the drive to explore is deeply rooted in both our biology and our upbringing. We discuss how exploration shapes personal growth, why uncertainty triggers our motivation, and how everyday choices can satisfy our innate desire for discovery. Make sure you have his...
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EP 721: Conquering 200-Mile+ Races- Part 2
Trail Runner Nation
This is Part 2 of a two-part series on running 200-mile races that we started last episode. We are joined again by coaches and 200-mile specialist to explore the rising popularity of 200-mile races. From gear selection and aid station efficiency to hydration, nutrition, and personal hygiene, they share practical tips for thriving in long-distance events. The conversation explores mental strategies for navigating low points, maintaining motivation, and the importance of breaking down goals and rewarding progress. Ian and Annie also discuss the unique challenges of 100- vs. 200-mile...
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EP 720: Conquering 200-Mile+ Races- Part 1
Trail Runner Nation
In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we are joined by coaches and 200-mile specialist to explore the rising popularity of 200-mile races. Annie shares her rapid progression from short distances to ultra races, while Ian provides expert insights on coaching, training strategies, and the mental and physical demands of extreme endurance events. The discussion covers key aspects of ultra preparation, including nutrition with real food, sleep strategies, foot care, hydration, gear selection, and mental resilience. Our coaches emphasize the importance of gradual experience, individualized...
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EP 719: What Does it Mean to Master the Art of Running?
Trail Runner Nation
"The goal is just supposed to stretch you further." In this episode, author and coach , discusses his new book launching on March 25 ' which explores the journey of cultivating full potential in endurance sports. Matt discusses the definitions of success, the importance of motivation, and the common goals athletes pursue. He shares insights on how to achieve mastery through a developmental process and the role of coaching in nurturing athlete motivation. He emphasizes the need for self-regulation and mastery in training, as well as the significance of social connections in enhancing...
info_outlineDrop bags are a crucial tool for ultra runners, serving as lifelines that ensure access to essential items like hydration, nutrition, and comfort gear during long races.
TRN friend and regular guest, Krissy Moehl and Kelly Kelly Swanson join our virtual run today to discuss the use of drop bags in ultra running. Kelly is the co-host of a new podcast, Drop Bag, and creator of the Ultraplanner, a tool that can help you organize your next ultra adventure or race. They explore the logistics and planning required, sharing personal anecdotes and lessons learned from their experiences as runners and race directors. The conversation highlights the importance of preparation, including packing essential items like hydration, nutrition, and comfort items that can enhance a runner’s experience. They delve into the challenges of race-day adaptability, particularly when drop bags don’t arrive as expected, and offer practical tips on labeling, weatherproofing, and lightening the load for volunteers. The hosts also emphasize the emotional aspects of racing, such as carrying sentimental items for motivation and creating connections within the running community. This episode underscores the value of preparation, humor, and giving back, all while fostering camaraderie among runners.
Krissy and Kelly have put together a great book bundle that includes:
- "Run Your First Ultra" by Krissy Moehl
- "Ultraplanner" by Kelly Swanson
- Performance Enhancing Kokopelli tattoos from Trail Runner Nation
- Stickers from Drp Bag Podcast and Salty Britches
Episode Sponsors:
- Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off Black Friday, Janji is offering 40% off sitewide through Sunday December 1
- Shokz, Use code TRN10 for 10% off Special BOGO special during Black Friday
- HUEL, 15% off with code TRAIL
- Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app