In this episode of HappyCast, we welcome Kathryn “Kat” Stewart, Charmin McKee, and Gus Rodriguez—three incredible ultrarunners who completed the 2024–25 Lone Star Slam. This ambitious challenge—completing six 100-mile races across Texas in just eight months, including Habanero Hundred, Cactus Rose, Dinosaur Valley, Brazos Bend, Rocky Raccoon, and Grasslands—sets the stage as the crew dives deep into what it takes to conquer the Slam.

Each guest shares what got them into the challenge and how their motivation evolved with every race. Charmin juggled a demanding job and motherhood while using trail running as her personal outlet. Kat transformed the challenge into a fundraising campaign for her daughter’s rare genetic condition. Gus embraced the Slam as a way to discover new parts of Texas and test his pacing strategy across diverse terrain. From dancing into aid stations to sleepwalking into emotional breakthroughs, this episode reveals how joy, grit, and community can carry runners through the darkest miles.

The crew reflects on their highs and lows—from near DNFs and energy drink-fueled hallucinations to ghost energy (both literal and figurative) and the dreaded terrain of Cactus Rose. With stories of unconventional nutrition (shoutout to chicken salad, Bobos, and Ghost Energy), sandal running legends, and surprising race favorites, this conversation captures the spirit of ultrarunning in its most rugged and rewarding form.

Be sure to subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and we always appreciate you leaving a good rate and review. Join the Facebook Group and follow us on Instagram and check out our website for the more episodes, posts and merchandise coming soon.

Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at [email protected]