The Evolving Adventure

Thank you for listening today, friends! We've got a fun episode with Heidi Garner today, in which we'll learn what it's like to create artwork and merchandise for races, run a small business while navigating family schedules, and plan out an award-winning Javelina Jundred costume.

Heidi also shares some of her hard-earned wisdom with us, including the relevance of squirrels on cocaine, the evolution of her creative process, and why it's important to train in the dark. Heidi’s stories remind us that sometimes, the most extraordinary moments happen when the world goes quiet and we venture into the dark.

Heidi is an incredible artist, accomplished runners in ultras and on roads, and volunteer in the community. She isn't just an ultrarunner: she's an artist, mother, and passionate storyteller who believes that the little moments shared on the trail are what make races so special. She lives with her husband and children near the Canyons and Western States courses.

The long quote Heidi provides comes from Jenny Lawson's book How To Be Okay When Nothing Is Okay.

Use the discount code Greggi15 for 15% off on Heidi's website

https://heidigarnerstudio.com/

Topics we cover include:

• Why Heidi loves night running, and how it transforms the racing experience
• Spiritual and emotional benefits of running in the dark
• How her artwork combines a love of trail running with the ultra community
• The storytelling behind custom race art and apparel
• Behind the scenes stories and memorable moments at Javelina and Western States
• The importance of community, support, and shared moments that make ultrarunning more than just a sport
• Balancing creativity, training and family schedules… even during race season

Timestamps:

02:03 - Night running as a favorite ultra feature

03:26 - The magic of running through the night

05:10 - How Heidi got into ultrarunning

06:40 - Transition from road running to trail ultras

07:41 - The trail community and trail races

10:00 - Family involvement and trail running for kids

13:20 - Heidi’s art development and connection to ultrarunning

17:44 - Creating race-specific apparel and collaborations

22:40 - The process of designing race merchandise

26:07 - How Heidi balances her creative work and running schedule

29:54 - Race planning, training, and managing life with four kids

32:23 - The importance of community and shared race experiences

36:45 - Memorable trail moments and meaningful conversations

38:48 - Small moments that create lasting memories in ultras

40:00 - Trail gifts and surprises on the trail

43:00 - Trail safety, first aid, and respecting nature

47:49 - Costumes, race antics, and fun race traditions

55:27 - Famous race moments and quirky race costumes

57:03 - Family support, community involvement, and race plans

64:19 - Upcoming events and exciting collaborations

67:40 - Costume stories, race highlights, and playful race culture

75:39 - The balance of humor, community, and trail adventure

78:35 - Connecting with Heidi on social media and supporting her work

79:01 - Closing thoughts and upcoming races

Links

• Heidi Garner Studio — Official website and shop
• Heidi Garner Instagram — Follow Heidi’s latest designs and race updates
• Western States Course Info
• Javelina Jundred
• Aravaipa Running
• Jenny Lawson
• How To Be Okay When Nothing Is Okay

Thank you for listening today, friends! Today we’ll learn how Megan Flanagan combines her passion for running, community, and personal growth to create spaces for meaningful connection, including her innovative new app called BelongNow, Strong Runner Chicks (and upcoming retreat), and develop supportive networks. We explore her inspiring journey, plans for fostering meaningful human connections beyond the trail, and some mental skills that are helpful in both endurance sports and life contexts.

Megan is the founder of Strong Runner Chicks, host of the Evolve Your Path podcast and coaches multi-passionate professionals and high achievers to redefine success on their own terms through Evolved Potential. 

Is there something holding you back from making a change? Follow along for inspiration and anecdotes from Megan’s inspiring story! Be sure to like and follow Megan, the Evolve Your Path podcast, me @cactusmoose and The Evolving Adventurer podcast

Jump to:

02:18 - Megan's non-linear running journey from childhood to ultra races

04:43 - The explosion of ultrarunning and women's mental health advocacy

06:45 - The challenge of making new connections after moving, and in adulthood

07:44 - Megan’s mission with the BelongNow app to foster social connection and belonging

10:00 - How BelongNow promotes local events, shared interests, and network growth

12:44 - Gamification and incentivization for organizing community meetups

14:24 - Creating inclusive spaces that accommodate various paces and personalities

18:00 - The power of community in trailrunning and retreats for deep bonds

22:37 - Parallels between endurance racing and life's unpredictability

25:11 - Using mental reframing and visualization during races and setbacks

27:19 - Lessons learned from job layoffs and career transitions

29:34 - Managing stress, success, and expectations in high-performance environments

32:12 - Megan’s professional background in workplace well-being and holistic health

35:24 - Reflecting on personal growth, vision boards, and future goals

42:46 - Insights into organizing retreats: structure, community and lasting impact

50:03 - Building lifelong friendships through shared adventures and vulnerable conversations

52:53 - The subtle power of outdoor, trail, and group activities to enhance connection

Resources

• Evolve Your Path Podcast
• Evolve with Megan Instagram
• EvolvedPotential.co
• Strong Run Chicks Instagram
• Strong Runner Chicks
• Connect on LinkedIn
• BelongNow
• BelongNow Instagram

You've seen her hair and nails... now hear about her packs and shoes! We've got Sierra DeGroff on the podcast today chatting about her experiences at looped courses, competing for the 100K national team, and ordering custom gear for her adventures. Sierra shares about her transition from road marathons to trail ultras, her experiences building community, training and racing in Las Vegas, and her upcoming adventures, including Denali. She offers insights into race planning, shoe selection, pacing strategies, and balancing a busy schedule with recovery and health.

Sierra moved to Las Vegas years ago, and struggled to find community so she started a run club... and met a fellow runner visiting from Boston the day we recorded. Vegas has perks for runners: no humidity, mild winters, and endless opportunities for adventure. You can even plan your outfits as carefully as your  training runs! 
If you're curious to hear what it's like to compete in timed events, pace elites at Golden Ticket races, compete for a spot on the 100k national team, how to order your custom vest or where to meet for a run if you find yourself in Vegas midweek... tune in today!

#TrailRunning #LasVegasRunning #RunningCommunity #AdventureAwaits

Follow Sierra on Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠

Badwater to Whitney FKT 

Vegas Heat Running Group

Exotic Pack Co

Aravaipa Racing Team 

100K National Team

Vegas Heat Strava club

 Timestamps:
01:37 - Connecting with local Vegas runners and community
02:14 - Sierra's move from Midwest to Vegas
03:43 - Living in Vegas, weather, and trail access
05:08 - Insights into her running year, recent races, and course records
08:42 - Race tactics and gear choices at Jackpot 50 miles
10:10 - Race plans for Badwater, Western States, and Denali
11:43 - Sierra's custom race gear and packs with Exotic Pacco
15:02 - Race outfit coordination for Jackpot and Western States
16:17 - Western States preparation and challenges
18:33 - Upcoming race plans, permits, and Alaska adventures
21:02 - Decision process for Denali versus Badwater and other bucket list races
23:32 - Her travel plans post-Denali, including Alaska and in-race logistics
26:33 - Maintaining pace and training in mountain versus road ultras
28:16 - Race support, pacing, and community crew dynamics
31:57 - How crews are chosen and maintaining team chemistry
35:42 - Creatively designed gear, custom packs, and their significance
43:39 - Strategy behind gear selection and apparel for performance and style
45:21 - Footwear preferences, shoe brands, and injury prevention
48:27 - Toenail care, race decisions, and recovery tips
50:56 - Western States experiences, crew support, and reflections
57:07 - The camaraderie and competition in trail and ultra running
60:37 - International race ambitions
62:00 - Balancing travel, adventure, and race goals in life
63:32 - Candid thoughts on multiday ultras
65:43 - Recovery process, training smarter, aging, and maintenance routines
67:24 - The importance of investing in health, PT, massage, and wellness
70:12 - Upcoming race and permit plans
72:45 - Advice for runners starting out and stepping into the ultrarunning community

Thank you for listening today, friends. Our guest today is Sarah June, @sarah.j.june, who finished as third female in Burrito League in Tempe, Arizona, which was livestreamed on the Mountain Outpost YouTube.. Sarah completed 807 miles on Mill Ave during January, which built up her confidence to tackle, and set the Fastest Known time (FKT) for the 247 mile Maricopa Loop in Arizona. It was neat to see the Burrito League community come out in support of her endeavor, which was generously supported by Mount To Coast. The Maricopa Loop FKT documentary is coming soon... stay tuned for that announcement!

One of the key takeaways from Sarah's Burrito League experience is that community support plays a key role: it's not just about miles run, but the friendships formed along the way. 

Sarah is also a coach offering guidance for ultrarunners, and hosting a Flagstaff, AZ retreat in June. Check her Instagram for more details! Her 2026 adventures include competing in Sedona Canyons 125 as part of the Cocodona series, and an attempt at the ⁠Iceland Ring Road FKT later in the summer... perhaps with a ⁠Kula Cloth.

#Ultrarunning #FKT #TrailCommunity #RunningJourney #SupportSquad

Are you curious about how running can transform your body and perhaps your outlook on life? Tag a runner who needs to hear this!  
https://youtu.be/WJA9OVIFmEk

Have you ever felt like giving up on a dream? Margaret Spring, @margaret_t_spring, almost did at mile 88 of the Leadville 100!

Listen today to learn how she turned it around... Tag someone who’s chasing a dream against all odds!

Three years ago, Margaret attempted the Leadville 100... it ended with a brutal DNF at mile 88. It was heart-wrenching, but it taught her resilience and the importance of perseverance. Jumping back to the present day, Margaret is back, training harder than ever, and ready to tackle the iconic Leadville course again! With each setback, she has learned more about my strength and determination. Margaret is also running for a cause close to her heart: the Annunciation Light Foundation.

Join us as we recap Margaret's manifestation of a Leadville race entry through perseverance, her Grand Canyon adventures, fundraising for various causes, and her love of Costco for fueling up on candy. Thank you for listening along on her journey!

#Leadville100 #RunningForACause #NeverGiveUp #trailrunning #ManifestingDreams

In this episode you'll learn all aboutMargaret's history with Leadville and lessons from her first attempt at 100 miles, including how health setbacks influenced her comeback, how she's powered by candy, and how some of her running nad baking love developed.

00:00 - Introduction to Margaret’s journey and race manifesting

02:25 - Overcoming setbacks: illness before Leadville 100

04:47 - Training through autoimmune challenges and setbacks

06:42 - Manifesting race entry with humor and creativity

08:46 - Strategies for securing race spots: lotteries, giveaways, and competitions

11:31 - Practical fueling tips: candy, gels, and homemade replacements

17:47 - Race terrain facts: high altitude, Leadville trails

20:33 - Gear hacks: keeping hands warm and opening foods easily

22:45 - Fueling ideas: mini eggs, candies, and creative smoothies

26:12 - Favorite snacks: Smarties, Aero, Oreos, and international treats

30:21 - Candy and baking adventures: from Chief Candy Tasting Officer to sourdough starter stories

32:30 - Dental care and gear prep during ultra races

35:51 - Incorporating vegetables and healthy snacks into long runs

39:02 - Costco hacks for affordable race fueling and essentials

43:07 - Avoiding gut issues: food choices and real-food fueling

45:23 - The joy of running with cake and creating homemade race foods

52:30 - Reflections on community, shared adventures, and plans for future races

58:53 - Exploring trail hazards like snakes, and safety tips for high-altitude races

64:41 - Margaret’s Grand Canyon and international adventure stories

70:08 - Supporting loved ones and race experiences in iconic Colorado locations

77:15 - Dream races and bucket list adventures in Europe and beyond

82:16 - Collaborative ideas: cake league, pancake pop-ups, and custom race gear

86:44 - Reflections on ultrarunning communities and the spirit of fun competition

Links:

Annunciation Light Foundation

Margaret Spring on Instagram

Leadville 100 Race Official Site

Cure Medullo

Costco

Skratch Labs

O'Henry Candy

Smarties Candy

Cadbury UK

Thank you for listening today, friends! We about to have a candid and humours chat with Jen Laughlin about her journey through menopause, unexpected growth as she supports women in midlife, and adventures in ultrarunning.

You'll learn how honesty, humor, communication and community-building can empower women, and help tackle the physical and emotional challenges of aging, fitness, and life.

Some of the topics we cover include:

• The unexpectedly viral success of funny social media reels highlighting women's shared experiences in menopause
• Practical insights into hormone replacement therapy (HRT), its effects, and how to manage changing hormones
• The connection between menopause, mental health and relationship dynamics
• Body and brain changes during menopause
• Tips for getting more women into trail and ultrarunning, and to sign up for races and hard events
• A candid comparison of Tushars 100k and Mogollon Monster 100 miler including technical terrain, elevation, trail features and logistics

• The importance of community, inclusivity, and addressing safety concerns in women’s races and outdoor activities
• The evolving landscape of race organization, volunteer roles, and race safety logistics, including supporting and increasing women’s participation in endurance sports

• Jen's Instagram
• UltraSignUp Race Results & Listings
• Mogollon Monster race info
• Tushars Mountain Runs info
• Javelina Jundred
• Aravaipa Running
• Squirrel's Nut Butter
• Hormone Replacement Therapy Information

Timestamps:

02:15 - Going viral: menopause humor that connects women and is building a community
03:37 - The impact of social media on women’s mental health and shared experiences
05:03 - Insights on hormonal treatment, HRT, managing side effects, and body changes
06:14 - What men need to know about menopause and how to be supportive through the adventure
09:44 - Relationship dynamics during menopause and the importance of patience and communication
11:36 - The growth of women in endurance sports and strategies for more female participation
16:24 - The physical and mental benefits of adding testosterone, race training, and recovery
20:44 - Overcoming injury setbacks, mental health, and race goals in ultrarunning
27:45 - Race comparisons: Mogollon Monster versus Tushars 100k including trail features and difficulty levels
36:58 - The logistical and scenic aspects of iconic races like Mogollon Monster 100 miler and Tushars 100k
44:54 - Race records, course variations, and the importance of supporting diverse racers
51:34 - A behind the scenes look into volunteer opportunities, race organization, and the spirit of community support
65:14 - Strategies for encouraging more women to start ultrarunning, hiking, and trail running
77:36 - Promoting inclusivity, handling social media content, and supporting safe women’s events
81:14 - Behind the scenes at races: videos, social media evolution, and race day moments
84:42 - The importance of men understanding and supporting their partners through menopause
85:45 - Final thoughts: community, humor, and resilience in endurance sports and life

Competing in Burrito League was the ultimate test for TJ Harms-Synkiew: a second-place finish with over 1,000 miles in 26 days… not on dirt or mountain trails, but navigating city streets, road crossings, physical pain and intense mental battles. He finished with grit, learning that patience and mental toughness matter just as much as miles.

In an unexpected twist, TJ's biggest challenge wasn’t the miles, but managing the mental struggle — from feeling like giving up to finding confidence in pushing through pain. His story shows us that endurance isn’t just physical; it’s a mindset you build day by day. Something worth thinking about.What’s the biggest mental hurdle you’ve overcome in your journey? Let us know in the comments.

Connect with TJ to follow his adventures and get inspired by his incredible endurance and passion for ultra running!

• Website: ⁠coachcrewpace.com⁠
• Instagram: ⁠@harmssynkiew⁠
• Substack: ⁠TJ Harms-Synkiew⁠

• Bighorn 100
• Ouray 100
• Leadville 100
• RunRabbitRun 100
• Crazy Mountain 100

Don't forget to like and subscribe to this podcast!

The video version can be found on the CactusMoose YouTube channel.

#UltraRunning #MentalToughness #EnduranceLife #RaceMindset #PushYourLimits

We’ve got a fun episode in store today, friends! Maia Detmer shares her inspiring journey from a childhood rooted in sports to becoming a dedicated trauma nurse and an accomplished ultrarunner. She started running to improve her health, and shares with us the intense experiences of last person standing race,  the vibrant community fostered through Across the Years, Jackpot Ultras and Burrtio League. Maia has some big goals this year, and is an inspiring figure in the world of ultras where she competes with support from Aravaipa Running and Ultraspire.

"Honestly, you can trick your brain. If you put a smile on your face, you're actually doing better or feeling better than you think. It's all temporary." - Maia Detmer

Main Topics Covered:

• Maia’s athletic origins in soccer and transition into ultra trail running
• How ultrarunning has transformed Maia’s health and mindset
• Insights into last person standing races, mental resilience, and camaraderie
• The organization and behind-the-scenes of Burrito League and Across the Years
• The role of community, sponsorships, and creative race support
• Maia’s upcoming races, coaching journey, and future goals

Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction & Maia’s multifaceted background 02:34 - Transition from sports to ultrarunning for health 04:14 - Maia’s positivity and the power of smiling 05:20 - The mental game in ultra races and faking it till you make it 06:26 - Race interactions and mutual support in ultra community 08:00 - Experiencing UNLV and shared memories 09:02 - Reflections on Across the Years 2020 and race experiences 10:02 - Personal milestones, emotions, and finishing strong 11:27 - The significance of community encouragement during races 12:33 - Notable race moments and avoiding injuries 14:10 - Recovery and Maia’s health updates post-race 16:18 - Deep friendships and community bonds formed in ultras 17:54 - Maia’s experience supporting and pacing friends 18:40 - Reflection on Jackpot and race fatigue 19:21 - Training and preparation for upcoming races 22:18 - Creating race support atmosphere with memorable moments like kazoo interruptions 24:25 - The impact of community support and surprises during the race 26:44 - Memorable race antics and rivalry banter 28:33 - The camaraderie of recurring participants and race traditions 30:41 - Maia’s involvement with Burrito League and community organization 33:54 - Challenges of race organization and future plans 36:01 - Behind-the-scenes of race management and community engagement 41:38 - Upcoming ultra races and Maia’s coaching journey 46:15 - How Burrito League served as training for longer races 52:57 - Maia’s future ambitions in the ultra distance scene 58:58 - Maia’s race day photos and candid moments 61:45 - Post-race recovery and injury management 63:17 - Future goals including Tahoe 200 and beyond 64:18 - Follow Maia: social media and upcoming adventures 65:47 - Closing thoughts and upcoming races like Trail TrashedResources & Links:

• Maia Detmer on Instagram
• Maia's Strava profile - Strava
• Corinne’s Company - Women Can Movement
• UltraSpire - Official Site
• Chipotle - Official Website
• Sparkle Lab Art - Instagram

Connect with Maia Detmer:

• Instagram
• Strava

From spontaneous moves to becoming an ultrarunner, her story is a testament to embracing change, managing discomfort and chasing dreams. Taryn's path from Texas to Utah is filled with unexpected turns, majestic landscapes, overcoming an eating disorder, and discovering a love for the trails.
In today's episode of The Evolving Adventurer, @taryn_annette shares her insights on taking risks, finding courage, and the joy of running through nature's wonders including the spectacular trail up to Angel's Landing.
Whether you're an aspiring adventurer or just love a good story, Taryn's journey will inspire you to step out of your comfort zone and explore the unknown.

#womeninrunning #icandohardthings #ultrarunning #eatingdisorderrecovery #chaseyourdreams

 keywords
ultra marathon, trail running, mental resilience, moving across states, recovery, eating disorder, adventure, ultrarunning tips, Utah, Tennessee
 key  topics
Taryn's journey from a delayed quarter-life crisis to ultrarunning
The challenges and rewards of moving cross-country for adventure
Overcoming an eating disorder through sport and self-discovery
Training, nutrition, and recovery tips for female ultrarunners 
The community and camaraderie of trail running and ultra running
 sound bites
"I wanted to bet on myself"
"Comparison is the thief of joy"
"You're not alone in any part of it"
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Adventure
00:58 Taryn's Journey into the Outdoors
02:28 The Move from Tennessee to Utah
07:20 Navigating Life as a Single Female Adventurer
11:21 The Transition to Ultra Running
18:45 Lessons Learned from Ultra Running Attempts
25:33 Embracing Personal Strengths in Ultra Running
26:38 Exploring Different Race Formats and Environments
27:52 Mental Challenges During Long Races
30:44 Overcoming Physical and Mental Low Points
33:08 The Emotional Journey of Finishing a Race
35:35 The Community and Support in Ultra Running
38:10 The Unique Experience of Loope Courses
42:28 Future Aspirations and Adventures in Running
45:59 Exploring the Trails and Community
49:44 Recovery and Nutrition in Ultra Running
55:29 Navigating Eating Disorders and Body Image
59:58 Personal Growth and Future Aspirations
 resources
Instagram - Taryn Annette
Jackpot Ultras (100-Mile Race)
Aravaipa Running

Join us on today's episode as we dive into the world of Whitney Dancaster, an elite trail runner from the East Coast, sponsored by Newton Running. Whitney shares her thrilling journey from city streets to ultramarathons, and how she's building a vibrant running community. Tune in for tales of her Burrito League escapades, safety smarts, race prep secrets, gear must-haves, and her sky-high goals for the future.Key Topics Include:

• Whitney’s epic win at the Chattanooga Burrito League, clocking over 543 miles and rallying the community
• Savvy safety tips for solo and trail runners, from wildlife whispers to communication cues
• Weathering the storm: tackling trail terrain and Mother Nature's mood swings
• Gear up! Whitney’s go-to shoes, socks, packing hacks, and support essentials
• From road to rugged: mastering new skills and boosting downhill daring
• How social media and community spirit spark connections and collaborations
• Whitney’s race calendar, dreams of 200-milers, FKTs, and exciting events on the horizon
• Beginner’s guide: trail reading, navigation, foot care, and handling wildlife and weather surprises

• Friction Prescription – Foot care products for trail runners
• Newton Running – Earthquake, stability, and racing shoes
• ⁠⁠30% off UCan and Free $20 Trial Pack⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠Unlimited Potential YouTube⁠⁠
• ⁠IG: Whitney Dancaster⁠ 

• Cocodona 250 – Iconic 250-mile adventure race in Arizona
• Leadville Trail 100 – Iconic 100-mile race in Colorado

• Big Deal at Great Seal - Ultramarathon in Ohio
• Long Haul 100 - Ultramarathon in Florida
• A Race for the Ages - Unique Ultramarathon in Tennessee
• The Barkley Fall Classic - Ultramarathon in Tennessee

Chapters:

00:00 - Meet Whitney: ultrarunning roots and community capers
02:05 - Burrito League breakdown: miles, community vibes, and local love
03:07 - Community chemistry and the trail scene evolution
04:28 - Burrito Loop life: routines and community chats
06:02 - Safety smarts: traffic, critters, weather, and risk wrangling
08:22 - Trail transition: tackling technical terrain
09:54 - Gear goodies: shoes, socks, packing plans, and emergency prep
12:19 - Weather woes: training and race prep, winter gear wonders
15:43 - Safety savvy: support circles, sharing plans, and wildlife watch
16:41 - Wildlife watch: bears, snakes, gators, oh my!
22:53 - Trail tricks: navigation, blaze reading, and finding your way
25:05 - Shoe smarts: fit, toe boxes, and blister busters
30:13 - Race-ready: river crossings, terrain tips, and gear guidance
33:40 - Race radar: Leadville, FKTs, and ultramarathon ambitions
41:22 - Trail trials and triumphs: personal growth parallels
50:02 - Trail tactics: safety, terrain tweaks, and adaptation
55:01 - Mindset magic: mastering descents and trail awareness
62:32 - Social media magic: connecting, supporting, and community building
63:16 - Coaching, mentorship, and championing women in sport
64:14 - Shoutouts to family, sponsors, and mentors
66:01 - Final musings: safety, awareness, and the ultrarunning community's power

Please follow this show on Spotify. It really helps!

Note: Always be trail-ready with navigation tools, safety gear, and wildlife wisdom. Whitney champions gear testing, terrain savvy, and community support for a sustainable and joyful trail running adventure.

Keywords: trail running, ultra marathon, Burrito League, safety tips, race preparation, community, gear, hydration, navigation, wildlife, women's running.