In this episode we welcome Mike Asmus and Brian Kutz, endurance athletes who’ve ventured into the mind-blowing realm of distances beyond 100 miles. These are the races where the mental and physical challenge truly pushes the boundaries of human capability.

We’ll hear about what makes these ultra-long distances so special, the mindset needed to tackle them, and how to train and fuel for such epic endeavors. Mike and Brian will share insights into balancing analytics and intuition on race day, as well as how the smallest details and careful planning become game-changers for these monumental feats.

We’re thrilled to have two incredible guests on today's episode: Jake Hegge, a seasoned winter ultra athlete, and Alan Chapman, a trail enthusiast, winter racing veteran, and the man behind the Fastest Known Time on the Superior Hiking Trail.

In this episode, we’ll talk about what draws these athletes to the cold, harsh world of winter running. We’ll explore how they train for these unique events, relive some of their favorite winter running moments, and take a look at the best winter races, both locally and nationally.

So grab a warm drink, bundle up, and join us for this winter-themed episode of Northern Exposure.

In this episode we're sitting down with two trail running legends who absolutely crushed the Superior 100 this year. First up, we have Cheryl Matson, the overall women’s winner, and joining her is Kim Holak, a Grand Master champion with years of ultra experience under her belt. These two didn’t just survive the rugged Sawtooth Mountains—they thrived

🎙 Welcome to another episode of the Northern Exposure Podcast, where we explore the grit, endurance, and passion of trail running in the rugged terrain of the North. This episode is hosted by Gretchen Metsa.

🏅 Joining us are two incredible athletes fresh off the Superior 100 trail race. We’ll be talking to the champion of this year’s race, Scott Wopata, and the second-place finisher, Andrew Warg. These two ultrarunners pushed their bodies to the limit over 100 miles of some of the most challenging, rocky, and scenic trails Northern Minnesota has to offer.

💥 We’ll dive into their race experience, the highs and lows of running through the Sawtooth Mountains, and what it really takes to conquer one of the toughest races in the country. Whether you’re an ultrarunner or just curious about what it takes to endure such a monumental test of physical and mental strength, this episode will inspire you.

Today's episode is the 2024 Superior 100 Party Episode with Gretchen Metsa (2nd Place Overall & New Course Record Holder), Andrew Warg (3rd Place Overall), Pat Griffith (4th Place Overall), and Andrew Steger (14th Place Overall).

Hosted by Jake Hegge.

We unpack our goals, training, race performances, upcoming events, and rapid fire questions. Enjoy the banter!

Today's episode features Gretchen Metsa and Jake Hegge.  These two smashed the 2022 Arrowhead 135 winter ultra race.  We unpack their course record crushing performances and all things winter ultra running.  If you've ever been interested in winter ultra running and the Arrowhead 135 race this one's for you.