On this episode of The Dirt Trail Running Podcast, Coaches Loretta and Lindsay sit down with special guest Coach Madeline Harms—developmental psychologist, professor, and running coach—to dive into the mental side of racing and training.

We unpack what it means to “choke” during a race, how panic attacks can derail even the best preparation, and the difference between process goals and outcome goals. Coach Madeline shares strategies for reflection, using visualization, and finding the courage to toe the starting line again after setbacks.

We also explore the pressure athletes face from social media and how it affects runners at all levels—not just elites. Whether you're chasing a PR or just trying to finish, this episode is packed with practical takeaways to strengthen your mental game and find joy in the process.

In this episode, Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay catch up on summer adventures and racing highlights. Coach Loretta shares stories from her vanlife travels out west—exploring new places, logging trail miles, and staying prepared just in case wild animals showed up (spoiler: they didn’t, but she was ready!).

We dive into tips for running in the heat, how to prep for wild encounters, weather, elevation and reflect on some epic recent races like Badwater and Hardrock.

Join hosts Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay from Ornery Mule Coaching as they welcome athlete Russell Stratton to the Dirt Podcast. In this candid conversation, Russell shares his experience at the Western States Endurance Run, where he faced the tough reality of a DNF (Did Not Finish) after missing the cutoff at the Last Chance aid station. Together, they explore the challenges of race day, the mental and emotional toll of not finishing, how even elite athletes struggle with their own hurdles and the lessons learned from setbacks in endurance sports. Russell opens up about his training journey, the significance of his crew and the importance of mental resilience. Tune in for an insightful discussion about perseverance, vulnerability, and the support of the running community as they navigate the highs and lows of the sport. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.

On this episode of The Dirt with Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay, we’re joined once again by Ornery Mule Coaching athlete Lily Medina for a raw and inspiring recap of her second race in the Midwest Super Slam: the Kettle Moraine 100. Lily opens up about the tough patches she faced on the trail and how she pushed through the lows to make it to the finish.

Whether you're chasing your first buckle or you’ve got dozens under your belt, there are golden nuggets in this episode for every runner. Tune in to hear about the mental grit, strategy shifts, and support that carried Lily through race #2 of this epic five-100-milers-in-4.5-months challenge.

This episode of The Dirt, Coaches Loretta and Lindsay sit down with special guest and Ornery Mule Coaching athlete Lily Medina, who’s deep into one of the craziest ultra running challenges out there—the Midwest Super Slam of Ultras. That’s five 100-mile races—Mohican, Kettle Moraine, Burning River, Hallucination, and Indiana Trail—crammed into just four and a half months.

Lily kicked things off with a bang, taking 1st overall female at the Mohican 100 with a blazing time of 22:44:12. We dive into her mindset, training, recovery tactics, and what fuels her passion for back-to-back hundos.

Tune in for trail-tested wisdom, laughs, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to tackle the Super Slam.

 

https://www.ornerymuleracing.com/

Join Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay as they share their latest race experiences and upcoming challenges. Lindsay reflects on her adventures and Cruel Jewel and upcoming races San Diego Rock and Roll Marathon and the Jackal -5 back to back marathons. Loretta discusses her time volunteering at the Love For Lily Charity event at Colfax Marathon and pacing at the Bay Shore Marathon, plus her upcoming crewing at Western States 100. 

They also highlight Ultra Crazy Runner Strava Event on June 4 for Global Run Day. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, this episode is filled with inspiration and community spirit!

From porta potty panic to legendary race shorts, Coaches Lindsay and Loretta share listener-submitted stories that prove every trail runner has a hilarious tale. Laugh with us — because if it’s not weird, it’s not ultrarunning.

Whether you're a seasoned ultrarunner or just here for the chaos, this one’s for you. Because if you can’t laugh at yourself… you’re probably doing it wrong.

Ultrarunning teaches us how to adapt, stay calm in chaos, and turn failure into fuel. In this episode, Loretta and Lindsay share real race stories, quick-thinking strategies, and how to carry lessons from the trail into everyday life.

Whether you're chasing a finish line or navigating challenges off the trail, this one's for you. Listen now to embrace the grit and grow through the grind. 

https://www.ornerymuleracing.com/

https://www.trailrun.coach/

 

In this episode of *The Dirt Podcast*, Coaches Loretta and Lindsay explore essential training programs tailored for Trail Runner University. Whether you’re aiming to improve your speed, conquer vertical climbs, or embark on your first 5K, this episode has something for everyone.

We’ll break down:

1. **Speed Development**: Discover our 10-week program focused on boosting your pace through targeted interval training and tempo runs.
2.  **Vertical Gain Training**: Learn how to tackle those steep ascents with strength-building workouts designed specifically for climbing. 
3.  **Couch to 5K**: For beginners, our structured plan will guide you from walking to running your first 5K, with tips to keep you motivated along the way. 
4.  **Mileage Goals**: Whether you’re setting your sights on 100, 200, 300, 400 or even 500 miles in 10 weeks.

 

Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, this episode will empower you to reach new heights on the trails!

In this episode of **The Dirt**, Coaches Loretta and Lindsay dive into the unique journey of mid to back of the pack runners. They explore the challenges faced during training, from pacing to mental hurdles, and share practical tips to enhance your running experience.

What You'll Learn: - **Understanding Your Journey**: Discover the common obstacles that back of the pack runners encounter and how to navigate them. - **Practical Training Tips**: Gain actionable strategies for long runs, pacing adjustments, and setting personal goals. - **Overcoming Doubt**: Learn how to combat self-doubt during training and the importance of trusting the process.   Join us for a supportive discussion that emphasizes community and personal progress in your running journey. Lace up your shoes and get ready to be inspired! Don’t forget to subscribe and connect with us on social media!