This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're diving deep into the world of grit and grace with the phenomenal Shannon Wheeler! She's not just an ultra runner; she's a force of nature who's tackled some of the toughest races out there.

Shannon takes us on her incredible journey, from finding solace in running in her mid-30s to crushing races like the Cruel Jewel 100 (which she compares to childbirth – you know it was tough!) and battling through the rugged Palisades 100. We'll hear all about the mental strength it takes to push through pain, the importance of dialing in your nutrition, and how unpredictable weather can throw a wrench in even the best-laid plans.

But it's not just about the suffering! Shannon shares her insights on transitioning to personal training, her dreams of tackling Hard Rock, and the pure joy and camaraderie she finds in the ultra community. Get ready for a dose of inspiration that proves anything is possible when you refuse to quit!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Shannon Wheeler

05:19 Transitioning to Ultra Running

10:30 Cruel Jewel: The Ultimate Challenge

16:16 The Palisades 100: A Rugged Adventure

29:19 Crew Support and Nutrition Strategy

36:57 Mental Resilience: Dark Moments and Mantras

41:34 Post-Race Reflections and Future Goals

52:38 Trail Running Challenges and Experiences

57:52 Training Strategies for Ultra Races

01:04:06 Managing Pressure and Expectations

01:11:56 Dream Races and Future Aspirations

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're tackling a story that's a touchdown for the running community! We're hanging out with Chris Stangle, a former football player who traded his helmet for a headlamp and is now not only crushing ultra marathons but also orchestrating some seriously awesome races!

Chris takes us on his unexpected journey from the gridiron to the grueling world of ultras, sharing how he discovered his love for endurance and the challenges he faced along the way. But what really shines through is his passion for the running community. We'll talk about the significance of those coveted race buckles (you know you collect them!), the importance of a strong support crew, and the incredible family-like atmosphere he creates at his events in Florida and Ohio.

Ever wonder what it's like to be the person behind the race? Chris pulls back the curtain on the wild world of race directing, the hurdles involved, and the immense joy that comes from seeing runners achieve their goals. Get ready for a story that's all about passion, community, and the unforgettable memories forged on the trails.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Chris Stangel and His Journey

02:31 The Transition from Football to Running

05:22 The Evolution of Chris's Running Career

08:17 Starting Run Fluent and Race Directing

10:41 The Significance of Matakwa and Race Directing Experiences

13:41 Unique Race Medals and Their Importance

16:33 Meeting His Wife and Shared Running Experiences

19:11 Memorable Races and Lessons Learned

22:09 The Impact of Virtual Races During COVID-19

28:47 Running Shoes and Early Experiences

30:35 Challenging Races and Personal Growth

35:58 Upcoming Races and Training Plans

37:04 Event Planning and Race Descriptions

49:25 Community Building and Race Directing Challenges

01:00:15 The Challenges of Race Timing

01:06:30 The Evolution of Running and Race Directing

01:07:50 Finding Purpose in Running

01:10:05 The Joy of Race Directing

01:11:57 Low-Key Races and Personal Preferences

01:15:24 Dream Races and Aspirations

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're strapping on our headlamps and hitting the trails with Nick Bianchini, a true force of nature who went from battling wildfires to crushing ultra marathons! 🔥

Nick's journey is a wild ride, and he's not holding back. We're talking about how he traded the smoke and flames for sweat and dirt, using running as his escape and his freedom. He opens up about his battles with addiction and how lacing up his shoes became his lifeline.

But it hasn't been all smooth trails. Nick shares the gritty details of his ultra running experiences, including the setbacks of injuries and the mental toughness it takes to bounce back. We also dive into the incredible ultra community, especially the vibrant scene in Chattanooga, and the crucial role his family plays in his running adventures (including running with his son – how cool is that?!).

Plus, we get the lowdown on fueling strategies (salty snacks over sweet – you heard it here first!), the beauty and brutality of East Coast trails versus the vastness of the West, and why Nick always aims for the stars, even in the toughest races.

If you're ready for a story of resilience, redemption, and a whole lot of ultra-inspiring moments, you HAVE to tune in!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Nick Bianchini

03:03 Nick's Journey into Running and Ultra Running

06:01 Wildland Firefighting and Its Impact on Nick's Life

09:00 First Experiences with Ultra Running

12:00 Training and Coaching for Ultra Running

15:04 Favorite Trails and Races

18:02 Overcoming Injury and Returning to Running

21:13 Inspiration and Family in Running

23:55 Experiences with DNF and Race Culture

26:57 Exploring the Southeast Ultra Running Scene

27:32 Exploring the Chattanooga Running Scene

30:09 Challenges and Triumphs in Ultra Racing

33:47 Adapting to Diverse Race Conditions

39:03 The Last Man Standing Experience

44:07 Cherokee Race Insights and Community

48:06 Navigating the Penhody 100

51:46 Running with Family and Personal Growth

54:04 Trail Racing Experiences and Competitions

01:01:02 Motivation Behind Running

01:03:52 Comparing East Coast and West Coast Trails

01:10:05 Nutrition Strategies for Endurance Running

01:12:51 Favorite Races and Future Aspirations

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're hanging out with Katie Baksa, a total rockstar who's gone from kicking soccer balls to crushing marathons (like, Olympic Trials level crushing!). But her story isn't just about speed and PRs; it's a hilarious and inspiring look at a messy, beautiful journey of a runner who's not afraid to chase big dreams (and maybe stumble a little along the way - that humbling 5K story is gold!).

Katie spills the beans on her ultra and trail running adventures, her training secrets (fueled by recovery drinks and maybe a little bit of crazy), and the incredible support system that keeps her going (shoutout to the family!). Plus, we dive into the wild world of starting a running brand, Bound Running, where community and togetherness are the name of the game.

If you've ever doubted yourself, chased a crazy goal, or just love a good running story with a healthy dose of reality, you HAVE to listen to this episode. Katie's proof that even after a "humbling" 5K, the marathon (and life!) is still yours to conquer.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Katie Baksa and Her Journey

03:23 Transitioning from Soccer to Running

06:48 The Shift to Ultra and Trail Running

10:53 Marathon Experiences and Personal Growth

14:03 Training Dynamics and Family Support

17:43 The Olympic Trials Experience

20:35 Reflections on Running and Lifestyle Choices

22:01 Fueling Strategies for Races

30:14 Recovery Drinks and Nutrition Strategies

31:50 Upcoming Races and Summer Training

36:47 Lessons from Crashing and Burning

43:44 The Birth of Bound Running

56:14 Why I Run: The Journey of Progress

01:02:10 The Humbling 5K Experience

01:06:47 Running Dreams and Aspirations

01:10:14 The Birth of Bound

01:17:48 Coaching Dynamics in Relationships

01:24:06 Finding Joy in Racing

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're diving deep into the heart of the trail running community with a very special guest: Terry Chiplin, the driving force behind the US Trail Running Conference!

Terry shares his personal and inspiring journey into running, from his childhood in England to the transformative landscapes of Colorado. We'll hear about the spark that ignited his passion for the sport and how that passion led to the creation of the US Trail Running Conference.

But this isn't just about a conference; it's about the incredible community that makes trail running so unique. Terry discusses the challenges faced by race directors, the importance of inclusivity, and the evolution of the conference to embrace diverse voices.

More than just a race or an event, running for Terry is a connection – to nature, to oneself, and to the unparalleled camaraderie of the running world. Get ready to feel the excitement as we talk about the upcoming conference in Knoxville, Tennessee, and the bright future of trail running!

GIVEAWAY ALERT! 🎉 Follow the Dirt and Vert Instagram page and find the podcast release post with Terry and share the post to your story, and tag 5 trail-loving friends for a chance to win a FREE one-day pass to the US Trail Running Conference (Wednesday 15th, Thursday 16th, or Friday 17th)! Don't miss out on this chance to connect with the heart of our sport.

Plus, our amazing listeners get an EXCLUSIVE discount! Use code 2025DIRTVERT40 when registering for the 3-day Race Director option before May 2nd at this link: https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=121458

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Trail Running and Terry Chiplin

06:06 Terry's Journey: From Childhood to Running Passion

12:04 The Transition: Rediscovering Running After a Dark Period

17:51 Establishing a Life in Colorado and Trail Running Camps

23:59 The Birth of the US Trail Running Conference

30:04 The Evolution of the Conference and Its Impact

36:10 Current Status and Future of the Conference

46:29 Conference Schedule and Activities

48:12 Merchandise and Vendor Opportunities

52:59 Personal Journey and Motivation for Running

01:00:00 Favorite Trails and Running Experiences

01:09:20 Community and Networking at the Conference

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by Kristian Morgan, an ultra runner whose journey is nothing short of epic. And get this – he currently holds the second fastest time in BOTH directions on the Appalachian Trail and he's going back in 2025 for another attempt!

Kristian takes us on his incredible adventure, from tackling the legendary Appalachian Trail to his relentless pursuit of the Fastest Known Time (FKT). We'll hear about the challenges, the triumphs, and the hard-earned wisdom he's gained along the way.

But it's not just about the miles. Kristian opens up about the power of community support, his personal training philosophies, and the profound sense of purpose that running has brought to his life. He reflects on his past, the obstacles he's overcome, and his ambitious goals for the future, including conquering the Triple Crown FKT.

Prepare to be inspired by a story that proves running can be a transformative force, forging connections and revealing the extraordinary strength within.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Christian Morgan

01:03 Christian's Adventurous Beginnings

02:39 The Journey into Running

04:44 Transition to Ultra Running

06:25 Global Running Experiences

08:01 Significant Races and Transformations

10:01 The Beauty of Thailand North Face 100K

13:11 Experiences at UTMB

16:07 Transitioning to FKTs

19:01 Training for the Appalachian Trail

22:07 Lessons from FKT Attempts

25:06 The Importance of Support

27:55 Planning for the Next FKT Attempt

31:07 The Pursuit of Happiness and Relationships

49:09 Building a Supportive Community

50:03 Exploring the Appalachian Trail

52:40 Setting Realistic Goals

54:51 Training Strategies and Mileage

56:49 The Impact of Weather on Running

59:48 Finding Purpose in Running

01:06:11 The Role of Running in Personal Growth

01:10:57 Culinary Adventures in Running

01:12:57 Future Aspirations and Bucket List Races

01:17:16 Fueling the Journey

01:21:17 Coaching and Sharing Knowledge

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the incredibly inspiring Lindsey Sexton, a two-time No Business 100 finisher whose journey proves that strength and resilience can conquer any obstacle.

Lindsey takes us on her remarkable path, from her early days starting a cross-country team in high school to facing down breast cancer and emerging to complete ultra marathons. We'll hear about her motivations, the challenges she's overcome, and the raw emotion of crossing that finish line after her battle.

Lindsey emphasizes the vital role of community support, the power of mental strength, and the unwavering belief in oneself that fuels every step. Her story is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to endure and triumph.

Get ready to be moved, inspired, and reminded that anything is possible when you refuse to give up on your dreams.

Chapters

00:00 Lindsey's Running Journey Begins

04:23 Transition to Ultra Running

09:29 Facing Breast Cancer

15:01 The No Business 100 Experience

36:01 Emotional Finish and Community Support

42:47 Year Two: Overcoming New Challenges

51:59 The Journey of Resilience

54:31 Overcoming Obstacles and Finding Strength

56:45 The Power of Sharing Stories

01:00:08 Life Lessons from Running

01:02:42 The Importance of Early Detection

01:03:44 Running as a Form of Freedom

01:06:28 Setting Future Goals

01:11:38 The Mindset of a Runner

01:21:55 Confidence and Self-Belief

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're bringing you an extraordinary live update from the road! We're checking in with Kallup McCoy II, an inspiring indigenous runner who's embarking on an epic journey across America, a feat accomplished by few indigenous runners since 1928.

Kallup is sharing the raw, real-time experience of this incredible endeavor. We'll hear about the challenges he's facing, the unwavering support of his crew and community, and the profound purpose that fuels his every step: to raise awareness about health issues and substance use disorder.

This isn't just a story about running; it's a testament to the power of hope, the strength of resilience, and the ability of the human spirit to overcome any obstacle. Kallup's journey is a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, we can achieve the seemingly impossible.

Join us as we follow Kallup's footsteps and witness history in the making. And if you're moved to support his mission, please visit www.rezhoperecovery.com

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Crew Introduction

02:33 Challenges on the Road

05:23 Mental Health and Substance Use Awareness

08:02 Purpose Behind the Run

09:36 The Journey of an Indigenous Runner

10:48 Cultural Significance and Personal Growth

10:51 Celebrating the Journey

13:04 Encouragement and Inspiration

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by Alec Cline, an ultra runner who just has the fastest 50 mile top performance time currently this year.

Alec's journey is a wild ride, and he's sharing all the details. We're talking about the switch from pavement pounding to trail racing, the mind-bending challenges of ultra racing, and how he learned to push through the pain when his body was screaming "STOP!"

But it's not just about the suffering (okay, maybe a little). Alec's dropping knowledge bombs on training strategies, fueling secrets, and the mental game that separates the finishers from the DNFs. We'll even hear about his epic first 100-mile race and the lessons he learned the hard way.

If you're ready for some serious inspiration and a healthy dose of "I can do that!" this episode is a must-listen. Alec's story is a reminder that even the most reluctant among us can find our fire on the trails.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Alec Klein and His Running Journey

06:18 Transitioning from Road to Trail Running

12:49 Experiences in Ultra Racing: Mohican 50 and Big Turtle

19:18 The Get Lucky 50: Training and Nutrition Insights

25:49 Recovery Strategies and Preparing for Georgia Death Race

32:11 Overcoming Challenges: Heart Health and Racing Goals

36:55 Navigating Health Challenges and Discovering Fasting

40:17 The Journey Back to Running

41:07 First 100-Mile Attempt and Lessons Learned

44:39 Endurance and Mental Fortitude in Racing

52:12 Upcoming Races and Future Aspirations

01:12:33 Finding Purpose in Running

01:16:09 Running as a Reflection of Identity

01:18:12 The Joy of Self-Expression in Running

01:19:49 Embracing the Elements: Running in Winter

01:21:22 Memorable Races and Personal Connections

01:22:29 Fueling the Journey: Favorite Race Snacks

01:23:30 Pushing Limits: Longest Distances and Support Systems

01:25:27 Dream Races and Cultural Experiences

01:28:23 The Evolution of a Runner

01:31:57 The Balance of Data and Intuition in Running

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the one and only Michael Wardian, an endurance athlete who's not just a runner, he's a legend. He holds multiple FKT's and American Records.

Michael takes us on his incredible journey, from his early days hitting the pavement to becoming a record-breaking ultra marathoner. We'll dive into his experiences at iconic races like the Boston Marathon, the brutal Badwater, and the historic JFK 50.

But it's not just about the races. Michael shares his thoughts on the power of community, the science of nutrition, and the dedication it takes to push the limits of human endurance. And yes, we even talk about running in costumes (because why not?!).

From conquering the Appalachian Trail to dreaming of running in space, Michael's story is one of adventure, inspiration, and a deep love for the running community. It's a reminder that running is about more than just personal achievement; it's about connecting with others and inspiring those around you.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Michael Wardian

01:01 Michael's Journey into Running

04:02 The Boston Marathon Experience

05:18 Running in Costumes: Fun and Challenges

09:28 Lessons from the Appalachian Trail

11:44 Survival in Endurance Events

13:07 Training Plans and Coaching Insights

17:52 Nutrition and Stomach Training

18:50 The Roller Coaster of Ultras

23:20 Community in Endurance Racing

25:15 The Challenge of Endurance Racing

29:23 Transitioning from Marathons to Ultras

34:11 The Journey to JFK 50 and Beyond

38:23 The Impact of Marathon Training on Ultra Performance

43:43 Experiences at Badwater and Beyond

49:46 The Importance of Community in Ultra Running

52:45 Reframing Competition and Personal Growth

56:12 The Journey of the Appalachian Trail

58:07 Running Across America for a Cause

01:06:42 Experiencing the Run: From San Francisco to Ocean City

01:10:43 Inspiring Others Through Running

01:17:36 The Essence of Running: A Personal Reflection

01:18:41 Celebrating Achievements and Records

01:19:39 Race Experiences and Community Support

01:21:41 Exploring Fastest Known Times (FKTs)

01:25:11 Innovative Running Adventures

01:28:37 Transitioning to New Challenges: Rowing and Beyond

01:32:55 The Journey of Endurance and Personal Growth

01:40:17 Introduction to Ultra Running and Records

01:41:14 Celebrating Achievements in Running