Alright, buckle up, Dirt and Vert listeners! This week, we're chatting with a badass ultra runner who just crushed the Southern States 200, taking home third overall and leaving them in the dust. That's right, we're talking about the incredible Ashlie Ithurburn!

Ashlie's journey is a wild ride, and she's taking us all the way from those "boring" old road races to the gritty, glorious world of ultra marathons. We'll hear about her first 100-miler, the epic challenge of switching to trail running, and what it really takes to survive (and thrive!) in those multi-day death marches.

But it's not all suffering and sweat. We're diving deep into the importance of camaraderie on the trail (because even tough runners need friends!), the power of a rock-solid mindset, and how Ashlie found peace and confidence in the pain cave.

If you're ready for some inspiration that'll kick you in the butt and get you out on the trails, this episode is a must-listen. Ashlie's dropping knowledge, sharing laughs, and proving that anything is possible with a little grit and a whole lot of heart.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ashley Itherburn

02:53 Ashley’s Journey into Trail Running

05:59 Transitioning from Road to Trail

08:42 First Ultra Experience and Lessons Learned

11:41 The Challenge of 200-Mile Races

14:42 Comparing Tahoe 200 and Southern States 200

17:40 The Importance of Community in Ultra Running

27:25 Trail Running Adventures and Ankle Injuries

30:13 The Mental Game of Endurance Racing

31:45 Training for the 200-Mile Race

34:24 Race Day: Preparation and Anticipation

36:17 Navigating the Course: Challenges and Mistakes

40:56 Support and Camaraderie During the Race

44:08 Pacing Strategies and Personal Goals

48:45 Catching Up: The Race for First Place

52:42 Final Push: Overcoming Obstacles to Victory

57:55 Riding the Highs and Lows of Racing

59:34 Teamwork and Support in Endurance Racing

01:01:25 The Power of Music and Connection During Races

01:03:12 Facing Challenges and Overcoming Fears

01:06:12 The Emotional Journey of Winning

01:09:50 Finding Confidence Through Running

01:14:09 The Importance of Community in Trail Running

01:14:55 Mindset at the Start Line

01:18:40 Gear Choices for Endurance Races

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're diving deep into the world of grit and camaraderie with Cory Clark, a runner whose journey proves that transformation is always within reach.

Cory takes us from his high school athletic days to his full-blown love affair with ultra running, a world where mental fortitude is just as crucial as physical endurance. We talk about the challenges he's faced, from battling injuries to pushing through the pain, and how he's learned to embrace the power of community.

But it's not just about the miles. We explore the science of hydration and electrolytes, the importance of preparation, and the sheer joy of pushing your limits. We also dive into Cory's experiences with rucking, a new challenge that's testing his strength and resilience.

Cory's story is a reminder that running is more than just a sport; it's a journey of personal growth, connection, and the unwavering belief in the human spirit's ability to overcome any obstacle.

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're sharing a story of extraordinary talent, unwavering spirit, and a legacy that continues to inspire. We're honored to welcome Chris and Melissa Wiseman, parents of the remarkable Darrah Wiseman, a young athlete from Tennessee whose life left an indelible mark.

Chris and Melissa recount Darrah's journey, from her early years in sports to her exceptional achievements in track and field, including her 6 state championships. We explore the dedication, the passion, and the sheer talent that made Darrah a shining star.

This episode is more than just a recounting of athletic feats. It's a tribute to a life lived with purpose and a story of how a community has rallied to honor Darrah's memory. We discuss the family's mission to build a track in her name, a lasting testament to her impact on young athletes.

Join us as we celebrate Darrah's life, her achievements, and the enduring legacy she leaves behind.

If you would like to leave a donation for Darrah please visit:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-darrah-wiseman-building-a-legacy-track

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Darrah's Journey

02:51 Early Athletic Development

05:32 High School Track and Cross Country

08:41 State Championships and Achievements

11:31 Transition to Focused Training

14:22 Challenges and Growth in Competition

16:59 Indoor and Outdoor Seasons

19:49 Junior Year and Mental Challenges

22:58 Senior Year and Future Aspirations

34:36 Carrying On a Legacy

37:41 The Mindset of a Champion

42:04 Building a Track in Her Honor

49:01 Community Support and Fundraising Efforts

57:43 Upcoming Events and Future Plans

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, buckle up for an adventure-packed episode with ultra runner extraordinaire, Gavin Woody!

Gavin's tackled some of the most epic races on the planet, from Badwater 135, Hardrock, UTMB and even the Iditarod Trail Invitational. We dive deep into his journey from casual runner to ultra legend, and how he's learned to embrace challenges, push his limits, and find strength in the ultra community.

Gavin opens up about the importance of setting goals, building daily habits, and learning from both victories and setbacks. So if you're ready for a dose of inspiration, adventure, and a whole lot of grit, this episode is a must-listen!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ultra Running Adventures

07:27 Gavin Woody's Journey into Ultra Running

14:40 The Transition to Ultra Running

25:12 Challenges and Learning in First 100-Mile Race

29:42 Family and Community in Ultra Running

31:59 Navigating the Challenges of Ultra Racing

34:05 Experiences at UTMB and the Importance of Family

37:08 The Pigtails Challenge: A Twist of Fate

40:40 The Infamous Badwater: A Bucket List Race

44:21 Comparing Tough Races: Badwater vs. Hurt

47:50 The Dragon's Back Race: A Unique Challenge

52:54 The Backyard Ultra Format: A New Experience

56:51 Running with Legends: Moab and Beyond

01:03:07 The Adventure of Exploration

01:06:22 Challenges and Triumphs in Ultra Events

01:07:57 Personal Milestones and Achievements

01:10:40 The Learning Curve of Adventure Racing

01:12:43 Daily Habits and Incremental Progress

01:15:51 Team Red, White, and Blue: A Mission of Unity

01:28:54 Preparing for the Journey Ahead

01:34:55 The Importance of Exercise and Nutrition

01:36:37 Medicine 3.0: A Shift in Healthcare

01:40:40 The Journey of Running: Personal Reflections

01:41:42 Why Do You Run?

01:47:53 Listener Questions and Community Engagement

01:53:11 Future Aspirations in Ultra Running

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the inspiring Zandy Mangold, an ultra runner who's not afraid to chase those epic challenges.

Zandy takes us on his incredible journey, from those early days on the trails to tackling the legendary Spartathlon, one of the toughest ultra marathons in the world. We talk about the highs and lows, the lessons learned, and the transformative power of running.

Zandy opens up about the importance of coaching and mentorship, the strength of the running community, and how his passion for the sport has shaped his life.

We also dive into Zandy's invaluable advice for new runners, emphasizing the importance of confidence, patience, and recovery. It's a reminder that running is a journey, not a race, and that everyone's path is unique.

Zandy's story is one of perseverance, personal growth, and the unwavering belief in the human spirit. It's a must-listen for anyone who's ever chased a dream.

Chapters

31:58 The Hardest Race: Spartathlon Experience

37:58 Crossing the Finish Line: Emotions and Community

41:56 Pride in Achievements: Reflecting on Races

44:48 Becoming Coach Zandy: A Natural Progression

47:54 The Joy of Coaching: Supporting Runners

53:21 Advice for New Runners: Building a Strong Foundation

01:02:58 The Importance of Recovery in Running

01:06:52 Motivation Behind Running

01:11:16 Experiences from Badwater Ultra Marathon

01:18:39 Setting a Marathon PR at 50

01:23:46 Community and Coaching in Running

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're trading in our trail shoes for combat boots as we welcome Zack Lever, an ultra runner and military veteran who's tougher than a tank! Zack shares his journey from a small logging town to a 20-year military career, and how he found solace and strength in ultra running after retirement. We talk about his early experiences on the trails, the challenges he faced in grueling races like Vol State and HOTS, and the mental and physical strategies he used to overcome obstacles.But it's not just about the miles. Zack opens up about the importance of community, the lessons learned from both triumphs and setbacks, and how running has helped him find peace and purpose. We also dive into his preparation for the upcoming Old Glory Ultra Relay, and the importance of having a coach and the right gear for those long hauls.Zack's story is a powerful reminder that running is more than just a sport; it's a journey of self-discovery, a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity, and a celebration of the strength we all have within.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Zack Lever and His Journey02:44 Zack's Transition from Military to Ultra Running05:29 First Experiences with Ultra Running08:26 Memorable Races and Family Involvement11:15 Challenges Faced in Early Races13:58 Insights from Vol State and HOTS Races25:46 Survival in the Desert28:57 The Race Against Time30:47 Lessons from the Journey Runs35:33 The Heat of the Challenge43:57 Overcoming Pain and Fatigue48:28 The Importance of Sleep and Nutrition in Endurance Running51:08 Memorable Races and Personal Achievements55:05 Setting Big Fitness Goals58:03 Team RWB and Supporting Veterans01:04:28 Training for the Old Glory Ultra Relay01:08:56 The Role of Coaching in Running Success01:18:15 The Joy of Learning and Coaching01:21:42 Understanding Training Blocks and Adaptation01:22:06 Tracking the Run Across the US01:23:39 Finding Your Why in Running01:25:47 Choosing the Right Shoes for Endurance01:31:24 Comparing Vol State and Georgia Death Race01:33:15 Chafing and Race Preparation01:37:36 Final Thoughts and Future Races

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the incredible Tyson Black, an ultra runner whose story will leave you inspired and filled with hope.

Tyson shares his journey from a place of personal struggle and loss to finding strength and healing on the trails. He speaks with raw honesty about the mental battles he faced, the importance of community support, and how running became his lifeline during those dark times.

But it's not just about the miles. Tyson opens up about the challenges he encountered during races, the mental strategies he used to push through, and the profound impact ultra running has had on his life. It's a reminder that sometimes, the toughest races are the ones we run within ourselves.

Tyson's story is a testament to the transformative power of running, the importance of setting goals, and the unwavering belief in the human capacity for growth. It's a must-listen for anyone who's ever faced adversity and found strength in the face of challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tyson Black's Journey

04:41 The Impact of Loss and Grief

10:51 Turning Points: From Struggles to Running

19:36 The Awakening: Realizing the Need for Change

27:42 Building a Supportive Community

34:47 The Transformation: From Walking to Running

37:40 From Walking to Running: The Journey Begins

40:22 Building a Morning Routine: Consistency is Key

43:41 Setting Goals and Finding Motivation

46:31 The Importance of a Strong Foundation

48:25 Nutrition: The Missing Piece

50:16 The Power of Consistency and Discipline

53:33 Transitioning to Endurance: The Ultra Running Dream

01:00:00 Finding Community and Support in Running

01:03:41 Training for Success: The Role of a Coach

01:07:28 The Pain Cave: Discovering Inner Strength

01:12:44 Facing Challenges: The Flu and Race Day

01:13:41 Overcoming Setbacks and Building Resilience

01:15:53 Race Day Preparations and Nutrition Strategies

01:20:17 Navigating Challenges During the Race

01:29:07 Mental Fortitude and Support Systems

01:43:51 Transformation and Personal Growth Through Running

01:51:17 The Power of Shared Struggles

01:52:23 Finding Purpose in Pain

01:55:18 Listener Questions and Insights

01:56:48 Consistency in Workouts

01:59:33 Aid Station Favorites and Race Experiences

02:04:08 Reflections on the Gong Loco Experience

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the incredible Justin Hamilton, an ultra runner whose story will leave you breathless and inspired.

Justin doesn't hold back, sharing his journey from casual runner to ultra marathoner, and how those pivotal moments in his life, including military service, struggles with alcohol, and personal tragedy, shaped his path. We talk about the importance of finding balance amidst the chaos of life, and how Justin's found strength in the ultra community.

But it's not just about the miles. Justin opens up about the mental and physical hurdles he's faced, and how ultra running has become a source of growth and resilience. We also dive deep into his experiences at the Fierce Dragon 200 Miler, a race that pushes runners to their absolute limits.

Justin's story is a powerful reminder that running is more than just a sport; it's a journey of self-discovery, a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity, and a celebration of the strength we all have within.

00:00 Introduction to Justin Hamilton

01:27 Justin's Journey into Running

06:05 Running as a Measure of Life

06:46 Challenges in the Army and Personal Struggles

11:18 Transition to Law Enforcement

15:29 Tragedy and Its Impact on Justin's Life

17:57 Turning Point: Embracing Running and Sobriety

21:21 Becoming Ultra Dad

27:14 Races and Achievements

36:00 The Sweet Side of Ultra Running

36:19 Racing Journey: From Treadmill to Trails

38:01 Honoring Friends Through Endurance

39:16 Lessons from the 100K Experience

43:03 Nutrition: The Key to Endurance Success

45:41 Overcoming Challenges: The Mental Game

51:09 The Role of Social Media in Accountability

55:51 Finding Balance: Family and Ultra Running

01:06:27 Training Philosophy and Race Goals

01:09:09 Reflections on Past Races

01:10:33 The Mid-State Mile Experience

01:12:03 The Fierce Dragon 200 Miler Overview

01:14:52 Race Strategy and Challenges

01:31:15 Why I Run: A Personal Reflection

01:42:00 Exploring Unique Beverages for Endurance Athletes

01:44:19 The Appeal of Fastest Known Times (FKTs)

01:52:36 Dream Races and Future Aspirations

01:54:21 Balancing Life, Family, and Running Goals

02:05:07 Podcast Journey and Community Engagement

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the incredible Anny Borisov, a runner whose journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit. Anny's story isn't just about miles and finish lines; it's about overcoming obstacles, finding strength in adversity, and embracing the transformative power of running.

Anny shares her inspiring journey from Bulgaria to the United States, and how a battle with breast cancer ignited her passion for running. We talk about her transition from 5Ks to marathons and ultras, her love for Spartan races, and the challenges she faced after a serious biking accident.

But it's not just about the physical feats. Anny opens up about the mental fortitude it takes to overcome setbacks, the importance of community support, and how running has become a form of therapy, a way to reclaim her health and her life. It's a reminder that running is about more than just the miles; it's about the journey within.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Anny B's Journey

02:57 From Bulgaria to Competitive Running

06:03 Overcoming Adversity: Cancer and Running

08:54 The Evolution of a Runner

11:52 Experiences in Ultra and Spartan Races

14:40 Marathon Madness: A Year of Challenges

17:33 The Importance of Goals and Achievements

20:24 World Championships and OCR Experiences

23:29 Life Changes and New Perspectives

26:13 Cultural Insights: Sports School in Bulgaria

29:18 Finding Home in Morristown, Tennessee

31:24 Journey Through Marathons and Ironman Training

32:10 The Impact of the Accident

34:02 Recovery and Resilience

36:58 Details of the Accident

43:45 Mental Strength and Determination

46:46 Nutrition and Race Preparation

01:01:37 Celebrating Achievements and Overcoming Challenges

01:04:48 The Essence of Being a Runner

01:08:52 Memorable Races and Personal Triumphs

01:12:22 The Drive to Keep Running

01:16:34 Recovery and Resilience After Adversity

01:18:32 Advice for Overcoming Obstacles

01:22:12 Proud Moments in Racing

01:24:37 Unexpected Sources of Energy

01:29:54 Reflections on a Journey of Strength