We're back with the most requested guest of the Free Outside Podcast—except it's just me requesting him. For his third appearance, Derrick Lytle joins the show to break down the Black Canyon 100K with the most in-depth, possibly inaccurate, but definitely entertaining preview out there.

We discuss the dreamers and receivers of golden tickets, the state of ultra running rivalries (hint: we just ignited one), and why Hayden Hawks could still win this race from New Zealand. We also cover influencer participation (or lack thereof), how to look good for the live stream, and public domain excuses you can use if your race goes sideways.

Other highlights include:

🔹 The five archetypes of Black Canyon runners

🔹 A deep dive into the best names on the entrants list

🔹 Wild predictions, race-day advice, and a discussion on whether Stringbean is actually vegan

🔹 Why Spring Energy should pivot to baby food and how the Jeffreys hold more influence than Ultra Runner of the Year

If you were looking for a serious preview, you might be in the wrong place. But if you want satire, questionable facts, and maybe even the best Black Canyon coverage out there—we’ve got you covered.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Black Canyon Preview

02:59 Creating Unique Content at Black Canyon

05:56 Trail Running Rivalries and Drama

09:01 The Five Types of Runners

12:13 Golden Ticket Dreamers and Receivers

14:58 Influencers in Trail Running

18:03 The State of the Economy and Running Events

23:56 Predictions and Favorites for Upcoming Races

30:00 The Landscape of Ultra Running and Influencers

35:58 Advice for Runners: Nutrition and Strategy

43:03 Fitness Bravado: Intimidation Tactics at the Start Line

44:17 Analyzing Race Strategies and Performance

45:48 The Virtual Running Experience

46:52 Creative Excuses for Race Performance

51:34 The Importance of Presentation in Racing

56:29 Predictions and Insights for Upcoming Races

01:05:02 The Marketing Team for Hayden Hawks

01:06:17 Predictions for Hayden's Success

01:07:14 Women’s Ultra Running Contenders

01:08:58 Intriguing Stories in Ultra Running

01:11:01 Unique Names in Ultra Running

01:16:00 Celebrity Runners and Their Impact

01:20:41 Final Predictions and Closing Thoughts

keywords: Black Canyon 100k, trail running, FKT, content creation, running rivalries, golden ticket, influencers, ultra running, race preview, running community, ultra running, race predictions, nutrition advice, fitness strategies, influencer culture, running, race strategies, virtual running, race performance, excuses, race predictions, ultra running, athlete insights, race presentation, Hayden Hawks, Hayden Hawks, ultra running, predictions, women's running, unique names, celebrity runners, race predictions

On today’s episode of the Free Outside Show, we’re joined by Grant Barnette—a thru-hiker turned Pro ultrarunner who has tackled some of the toughest races in the world. Grant has hiked the Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail, holds the DC Peaks 50 course record, placed 2nd at Grindstone 100, 5th at Speedgoat 50K, and was the third American at CCC at UTMB. Most recently, he signed a pro contract with Craft.

Follow Grant online: https://www.instagram.com/runwithgrant/

We dive into how he transitioned from carrying a heavy pack on the PCT to discovering Angeles Crest 100 in middle of a thru-hike, his nomadic lifestyle living out of his truck while chasing FKTs, and his journey through ski mountaineering and backcountry adventures in Utah. He shares his take on training with a job, fueling strategies, sponsorships, and the challenges of race selection for the US Trail Team.

Plus, we discuss the controversial selection process for the World Trail Running Championships, how social media and live-streaming influence race prestige, and what it’s like lining up next to Jim Walmsley at UTMB.

Takeaways

Grant Barnett has a rich background in trail running and ultra events.

The transition from through-hiking to competitive running can be inspired by encounters on the trail.

Living in a truck and pursuing a passion for running can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Ski mountaineering offers a unique training method for ultra running.

The importance of mentorship in outdoor sports is highlighted through Grant's relationship with Joey Campanelli.

Media coverage significantly influences race popularity and athlete opportunities.

Qualifying races for championships may not always reflect true mountain running skills.

The culture of ski resorts can mirror the lifestyle of through-hikers.

Nutrition and hydration strategies change drastically in winter sports.

Community support and shared experiences are vital in the outdoor sports world. Wasatch 100 is a historic race but lacks hype.

Experiencing a DNF can be deeply embarrassing.

Bouncing back from a DNF is crucial for growth.

The bond between twin athletes can be unique and supportive.

Modern running science is complex and ever-evolving.

Finding what works for your body is essential in fueling.

Crew support can significantly impact race performance.

The emotional toll of racing can be challenging to navigate.

The evolution of race formats keeps the sport dynamic.

Shoes and gear have advanced significantly in recent years.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Grant Barnett and His Achievements

02:55 The Journey to Trail Running

06:04 Life Changes and New Beginnings in Salt Lake City

09:05 Trail Names and Film Appearances

12:05 Ski Mountaineering and Training Techniques

15:02 World Championship Disappointments and Race Qualifiers

26:09 The Legacy of Wasatch 100

29:11 The Evolution of Golden Ticket Races

32:57 The Emotional Toll of DNF

35:31 Bouncing Back: Success at DC Peaks

37:20 The Unique Bond of Twin Athletes

39:11 Navigating Modern Running Science

44:17 The Importance of Crew Support

Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com

Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside

🔥 Jamil Coury vs. Kevin Russ – The Battle for Local Legend! 🔥

💥 Support the Show!

Check out my YouTube for quick-hitter training & FKT updates: @FreeOutside 

Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com

Chapters

00:00 The Chipotle Challenge Begins

12:48 Interview with Jamil Curry

25:23 Insights from Kevin Russ

keywords: Chipotle challenge, running rivalry, Jamil Coury, Kevin Russ, ultra running, local legend, Strava, endurance sports, competition, content creation

I’m joined by Ken Seals, the creator of The Ultra Minute on Substack, for an exciting and wide-ranging episode of the podcast! Fun fact: a hurricane is what led Ken to running. We dive into the trends we hope to see emerge in 2025, bold predictions for the future of ultrarunning, and some of the key happenings during the sport’s so-called “off season.”

Find the Ultra Minute on Substack: https://ultraminute.substack.com/

This conversation covers a little bit of everything: the rise of longer races like Cocodona and their growing appeal, what we can expect at Western States this year (and why it might be one of the most exciting editions yet), and the evolution of ultrarunning media. Ken also shares insights into his own journey, from thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail to starting The Ultra Minute.

We talk about the impact of sustainability and technology on gear, how science and data are changing the way athletes train and recover, and why platforms like Substack and YouTube are becoming essential tools for athletes to tell their stories and connect with fans.

Takeaways

Ken Seals transitioned from mountain biking to ultra running after losing his bike in a hurricane.

The Ultra Minute newsletter was created to provide concise updates on ultra running for busy fans.

Substack is gaining popularity among ultra runners as a platform for storytelling and community engagement.

David Roach's rise in the ultra running scene is creating a compelling narrative for the sport.

The importance of unbiased reporting in sports journalism is emphasized in the context of ultra running.

Athletes are beginning to use Substack to share their personal journeys and connect with fans.

Nutrition and recovery are becoming increasingly important topics in ultra running performance.

The conversation highlights the potential for science to improve training and recovery in ultra running.

The dynamics of team structures in ultra running differ significantly from cycling, impacting athlete support.

The discussion suggests that the future of ultra running may involve more athlete-driven content and storytelling. Personal stories in ultra running can inspire others to share their journeys.

Content creation around races can elevate the sport's visibility.

Emerging competitors bring fresh narratives to the ultra running scene.

Longer distances are gaining popularity and changing the competitive landscape.

Athletes are increasingly using their platforms for advocacy and social issues.

The dynamics of competition are shifting with new athletes entering the field.

The storytelling aspect of races can enhance viewer engagement.

Sustainability and product longevity are becoming key focuses for brands.

The rise of AI and tailored training plans may change how athletes prepare.

The potential for betting on ultra running could reshape the sport's audience.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ultra Running and Substack

09:14 The Rise of Substack in Ultra Running

36:14 David Roach vs. The World: A New Rivalry in Ultra Running

39:52 The Impact of Personal Stories in Ultra Running

43:40 The Future of Content Creation in Ultra Running

47:40 Emerging Competitors and Storylines in Ultra Running

53:35 The Rise of Longer Distances in Ultra Running

57:17 Hot Takes and Predictions for the Upcoming Season

keywords: ultrarunning, Substack, David Roach, trends 2025, ultra running news, athlete stories, heat training, nutrition, supplements, community, Ultra Running, Western States, David Roach, Content Creation, Emerging Competitors, Long Distance Running, Predictions, Athlete Stories, Trail Running, Race Coverage

In this episode, I sit down with Brooke Bjorge, the owner of Grit Sports Nutrition and an athlete herself, to dive into the critical role of sodium in endurance sports. We cover everything from the dangers of hyponatremia and how to avoid cramping in an ultramarathon, to the differences between sodium citrate and sodium chloride and why it matters for performance.

Brooke also shares insights on sweat testing, building personalized hydration plans, and navigating the high-carb fueling trends in endurance racing. Whether you're training for a thru-hike, tackling a 100-miler, or just want to optimize your performance, this conversation is packed with practical tips and science-backed strategies.

Follow Brooke: https://www.gritsportsnutrition.com/

takeaways

Sodium is crucial for muscle contraction and cognitive function.

Hyponatremia is more common than hypernatremia among athletes.

Sodium citrate is better absorbed than sodium chloride.

Athletes should aim to replace 60-90% of sodium losses during events.

Sweat rate testing is essential for developing hydration protocols.

Sodium intake can be adjusted based on environmental conditions.

Recovery nutrition should include protein, carbs, and fats.

Weight loss goals should not compromise athletic performance.

Carbohydrate intake should be individualized based on athlete size and needs.

Post-exercise hydration is critical for recovery.

Sound Bites

"Most people run the risk of consuming too little."

"Sodium is in charge of so many essential functions."

"Sodium citrate is much better absorbed by the body."

"You want to replace 60 to 90% of sodium losses."

"You don't want to go overboard either."

"You can only right the ship to a certain extent."

"Not everybody needs more carbs."

"Recovery fueling and hydration is huge."

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Sodium in Athletics

03:08 Types of Sodium and Their Absorption

06:05 Sweat Rate and Sodium Replacement

09:13 Developing a Hydration Protocol

12:06 Methods of Sodium Ingestion

15:01 Addressing Sodium Deficiency During Events

17:52 Carbohydrate Intake and Performance

21:00 Navigating Weight Loss and Performance

23:49 Post-Run Recovery Strategies

keywords: sodium, sports nutrition, endurance athletes, hydration, sweat rate, sodium replacement, electrolyte balance, carbohydrate intake, weight loss, recovery

In this episode of the Free Outside Podcast, I sit down with Matthew Shepard—better known as Shep—to talk all things trail running, ultra-endurance racing, and his incredible journey in the outdoors. From growing up wandering the wilderness with a rifle in hand to becoming a standout competitor in backyard ultras and the Director of Field Operations at Sinister Sports, Shep’s story is nothing short of inspiring.

Follow Shep online: https://www.instagram.com/go_shep/

keywords: trail running, backyard ultra, wildlife encounters, mental challenges, camaraderie, Sinister Sports, long-distance racing, Shep, World Team Championship, racing strategies

In this episode of the Free Outside podcast, I’m joined by Pete Deneen, a climate scientist, award-winning writer, and the Chief Executive of the Keep Sespe Wild Foundation. Together, we dive into the wildfires that have devastated California, including the recent LA firestorm, one of the most costly and destructive disasters in U.S. history.

Find Keep Sespe Wild online

Find Pete Deneen online

Support us at Janji.com and tell them we sent you

takeaways

-California wildfires are among the most destructive in U.S. history.

-The interplay of wet and dry years significantly affects fire risks.

-Santa Ana winds can exacerbate wildfire conditions.

-Climate change has increased the frequency of fire weather days.

-Defensible space around homes is crucial for fire survival.

-Foscheck is a useful tool in firefighting but has environmental impacts.

-Post-fire recovery can lead to ecological resilience in certain areas.

-Community engagement is vital for effective fire management.

-Misconceptions about wildfires often oversimplify complex issues.

-Nonprofits play a key role in environmental education and stewardship.

Sound Bites

"These areas have evolved to burn."

"Foscheck is an effective tool."

"We have to coexist with fire."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Wildfires in California

04:57 Current Situation of the Fires

07:32 Factors Contributing to Fire Risk

12:34 Understanding Santa Ana Winds

18:02 Fire Spread and Containment Challenges

21:32 Impact of Firefighting Techniques

25:52 Post-Fire Recovery and Environmental Impact

31:02 Future Mitigation and Prevention Strategies

32:46 Coexisting with Nature: A Journey with Native Plants

32:51 Hardening Communities Against Wildfires

33:27 Understanding Historical Fire Regimes

38:21 The Era of Fire Suppression and Its Consequences

39:53 Predictive Tools for Fire Awareness

43:52 Debunking Misconceptions About Wildfires

50:32 The Role of Nonprofits in Conservation and Education

keywords: California wildfires, climate change, Santa Ana winds, fire management, environmental impact, community engagement, wildfire recovery, firefighting techniques, ecological resilience, wildfire misconceptions

In this solo episode of the Free Outside Podcast, I’m sharing all about my recent trip to Big Bend National Park—a week packed with hiking, backpacking, and adventure. From spotting javelinas to scrambling up Emory Peak at sunset, I dive into how this trip fits into my training for FKTs and ultra races like the Cocodona 250 and Big Horn 100.

patreon.com/freeoutside

In this episode of the Free Outside Show, I share my journey from ideas to goals, discussing my plans for the Appalachian Trail record and the importance of creativity in trail running. I reflect on the impact of COVID on past goals, explore the role of ketones in endurance sports, and emphasize the growth of his podcast and personal development. I also delve into fueling strategies for endurance events, highlighting the need for balance and experimentation in training.

Support this content patreon.com/freeoutside

takeaways

-Ideas can evolve into dreams and then into actionable goals.

-COVID impacted many athletes' plans, including mine.

-Creativity is abundant in today's world, especially in trail running.

-Content creation is a vital part of sharing my journey.

-Ketones can aid mental sharpness during extreme fatigue.

-The podcast has significantly contributed to my personal growth.

-Communication skills are essential for connecting with others.

-Fueling strategies need to be tailored to individual needs.

-The ultra running community is still developing and experimenting.

-It's important to stay elite and committed to your goals.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Big Announcement

05:38 Planning for the Appalachian Trail Record

10:52 Capturing the Journey: Content Creation Plans

20:59 Reflections on the New Year and Podcast Growth

27:48 Fueling Strategies for Endurance Events

Keywords: trail running, Appalachian Trail, goals, creativity, ketones, endurance, podcasting, personal growth, FKT, planning

In this episode of the Free Outside Podcast, I dive into one of the hottest (and coldest) topics sweeping the endurance sports world: passive heat exposure and cold plunging. Whether you're a runner, cyclist, triathlete, or just curious about optimizing recovery and performance, this episode has you covered.

Support the podcast at Patreon.com/freeoutside