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Sierre Zinal | Results Discussion & Kilians Greatness 

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Can a cross country dropout become a professional athlete? Join us as we chat with Mercedes Siegle-Gaither , who transformed her high school running struggles into a passion for trail running, discovered unexpectedly while studying abroad in Australia. From there, she journeyed into a series of adventurous seasonal jobs in Colorado, working with the Bureau of Land Management and embracing a semi-nomadic lifestyle. Mercedes shares intimate details about her decision to quit her job and pursue running full-time, the challenges of training on the go, and the unique logistics of living out of her car.

Ever wondered about the life of a full-time athlete? Mercedes opens up about the significance of structured training and the personal battles athletes face in maintaining their schedules. With a diverse academic background and careers ranging from pre-med to environmental consulting, Mercedes's stories reveal the thrill of fieldwork in forestry and hydrology versus the more routine aspects of consulting. Listen to her humorous and heartfelt reflections on recent race experiences and the camaraderie found in competition.

Prepare for an adventure-packed episode as we explore Mercedes' participation in the Skyrunner World Series and her emotional journey through competitive trail races. From the dynamics of mountain races, strategic race planning, and community among elite competitors, to broader topics like wildlife speculation and future ambitions, this episode promises a comprehensive and thrilling glimpse into Mercedes's life. Plus, we touch on upcoming mountain race plans, athlete sponsorships, and even the speculation of grizzly bears in Colorado and the existence of aliens. This is one episode you won't want to miss!

Mercedes on Instagram - @runsciencecedes
https://www.instagram.com/runsciencecedes/?hl=en

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Ready to witness the thrill of elite trail running? This episode of the Steep Stuff Podcast promises a riveting roundup of recent events and future races that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Join me, James Lorello, as we celebrate Anna Gibson's record-breaking run and Tyler McCandless's impressive sub-one-hour finish at the Rendezvous Hill Climb. We'll also take you through the competitive weekend at the Up and Over Trail Run in Taos, New Mexico, and provide an exclusive preview of the highly anticipated Sierre Zinal race in Switzerland.

As we gear up for future races, I'll share detailed analyses and predictions for the top contenders. Learn why Anna Gibson, Sophia Loughley, and Judith Weider are the ones to watch in the women's category, and discover the strengths of male trail running icons like Patrick Kipanego and Killian Jornet. Whether you're an avid trail runner or just love the sport, these insights will give you a deeper appreciation of the athletes' prowess and the unpredictability of the races.

And that's not all—this week, we feature interviews with some of the most inspiring figures in the trail running community. Tomorrow, we welcome the legendary Mark Tatum from Colorado Springs, followed by a double feature with Mercedes Sigel Gaither on Thursday and Friday. Get ready for a week packed with incredible stories, expert insights, and motivational conversations that you won't want to miss. Stay tuned for an unforgettable experience with the Steep Stuff Podcast!

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What drives a 60-year-old mountain runner to achieve legendary status? Meet Mark Tatum, our extraordinary guest on this episode of the Steep Stuff Podcast. From the early days of high school track to his remarkable victories in the Dipsea race and top 20 finishes at the Broken Arrow VK, Mark shares his secrets for maintaining speed and endurance well into his 60s. You'll hear about his transformative journey, the rigorous training on the Manitou incline, and the unique strategies that set him apart in competitive mountain running.

We also immerse ourselves in the storied history of the Dipsea Trail race in Marin County. Mark paints a vivid picture of this iconic race, covering everything from its challenging terrain to its evolution over the years. Discover the traditions and shortcuts that make the Dipsy so special, and how it compares to other renowned races like Mount Marathon and the Pikes Peak Marathon. The discussion highlights the significance of the coveted black shirts awarded to top finishers, underscoring the deep-rooted sense of community and legacy these races foster.

Beyond Mark's personal achievements, we delve into broader themes of longevity and rediscovery in mountain racing. Learn how athletes reignite their passion for the sport later in life and the role of mountain biking in honing downhill running skills. We even venture into the future, exploring how artificial intelligence might revolutionize training and running. This episode is a treasure trove of inspiration and insights for runners of all ages, blending personal stories with expert advice and forward-thinking discussions. Tune in for a profound and motivating conversation that goes beyond the trails.

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What drives someone to transition from aspiring musical theater performer to a passionate downhill runner? Tatum Russo takes us on a riveting journey from her early years in Arizona to her life in Colorado Springs, detailing how her childhood fascination with running blossomed into a career. She moved to Colorado at the tender age of seven and has since become a prominent figure in the running community, all while navigating the intense demands of musical theater and balancing her creative pursuits.

Feel the anticipation build as we discuss the upcoming Broken Arrow race, with the thrilling possibility of seeing Jim Walmsley compete. We share personal anecdotes about overcoming winter injuries and the relentless challenge of peroneal tendinitis, which threatened Tatum's participation in the event. From close encounters with wildlife to the emotional roller coaster of injury and recovery, this episode captures the unpredictable essence of trail running and the resilience required to persevere.

But that's not all—Tatum's journey extends beyond the tracks. We explore her deep-rooted passion for musical theater, the psychological impact of portraying various characters, and the arduous path to mastering music theory. As we navigate topics ranging from inspiring musicians to the mysterious allure of Bigfoot, we also tackle the complex relationship between human creativity and artificial intelligence. Join us for a compelling conversation that celebrates the spirit of pursuing excellence and the intricate dance between art, performance, and sport.

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Ever wondered how elite trail runners tackle some of the most grueling courses? You'll find out in this episode of the Steep Stuff Podcast. We dive headfirst into the exhilarating world of trail racing, starting with the Bar Trail Mountain Race on July 21, 2024. From the challenging course to the standout performances of Ashley Brasovan and Joseph Gray, we cover it all, including insights from an elite panel featuring Christina Mascarenas and Sarah Ghul. Plus, don’t miss the spotlight on Speedgoat 50K and 28K and the Cirque Series Alyeska, where we celebrate the incredible endurance of these top athletes.

In the second segment, we highlight the top finishers from recent Cirque Series races, including the Snowbird Speed Gear 28K and the Alyeska. Celebrate with us as Robin Lesh and Hawk Call claim their victories in the 28K, while Kendall Kramer and David Norris triumph in the Alyeska race. We also delve into what makes the Alyeska course so captivating and give a sneak peek into our upcoming Tatum Russo podcast episode. Don’t forget to check out the results online, rate us on Spotify and Apple, and stay tuned for more thrilling updates. Enjoy your week and join us for an exhilarating journey through the world of trail racing!

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What does it take to become the captain of the US Sky Running team? Get ready to be inspired as we chat with Joseph Demoor, the pride of Carbondale, Colorado. Joseph shares his rich family history in running, his collegiate journey at the University of Colorado Boulder, and the influential figures that have shaped his career. Discover how he’s spearheading a fundraising campaign for the team's upcoming European competition and his lifelong passion for mountain adventures.

We explore the profound bond between Joseph and his brother, showcasing how their shared love for running has led them to incredible feats like conquering Mount Elbert. The conversation highlights the importance of longevity and adaptability in the sport, with inspiring anecdotes from legends like Max King and Joseph Gray. Joseph also provides an insider's look at the Sky Running World Championships in Soria, Spain, revealing the team's selection process and the significance of this prestigious event.

Join us as we navigate through the unique landscapes of trail racing series such as WMRA, Golden Trail Series, and sky running. Joseph discusses the logistics of event selection, his career transition from Aspen Mountain to Buttermilk Ski Area, and the nuances of training between winter ski-focused workouts and summer running. We cap off the episode with a light-hearted chat about wildlife encounters in Colorado, making this an episode packed with both insight and fun.

To Donate to the US Skyrunning Team - https://givebutter.com/Skyrunning2024 

Joseph's Instagram - @josedemoor https://www.instagram.com/josedemoor/

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What happens when an athlete's career is derailed by injuries, only to find a new, unexpected path to fulfillment? Join us on the Steep Stuff Podcast as we sit down with Jordyn Milbrath from Boulder, Colorado, who transformed her passion for soccer into a love for running. Jordan opens up about her inspiring journey, from her YouTube channel "Chasing Joe" to her bold decision with her fiancé Chase to leave corporate America and start a business. Their successful lightning bolt earrings collaboration with Walters and Hogsett is just the tip of the iceberg in this tale of resilience, freedom, and entrepreneurial spirit.

In this episode, we unpack the complexities of embracing multiple athletic identities and the pressures that come with competition. Jordan and other athletes share how diversifying interests can lead to greater resilience and joy in the journey. We also dive into the major life transitions, such as moving from a corporate career to an adventurous, more fulfilling lifestyle. Expect to hear stories about bikepacking adventures, the highs and lows of the Cirque Series races, and the mental clarity achieved through these pursuits. This is a conversation that underscores the importance of finding fulfillment beyond the confines of traditional roles.

But that's not all—get ready for some wild tales and thoughtful reflections. We touch on everything from the emotional pressures of high-stakes competitions to thrilling mountain biking excursions. Jordan shares her encounters with nature’s mysteries, including gripping anecdotes about Bigfoot and aliens. We wrap up with a discussion on personal goals for the year ahead and an exciting new business venture focused on holistic healing. Whether you’re an athlete, an entrepreneur, or someone looking for inspiration, this episode offers a rich tapestry of insights and adventures.

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/c/ChasingJo 
Instagram - @jordyn.milbrath /  https://www.instagram.com/jordyn.milbrath/ 
Chasing Jo Travel Shop -  https://www.thatch.co/@chasingjo
Chasing Jo Discounts Linktree -  https://linktr.ee/jordynmilbrath 

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LIVE From the Barr Trail Mountain Race Elite Panel Night 

Panelists !
- Joseph Gray
- Jonathan Aziz 
- Christina Mascarenas 
- Sarah Guhl 
- Tatum Russo
- Michael Everson
- Benjamin Townsend 

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Curious about how a passion for cycling can fuel a groundbreaking entrepreneurial journey? Join us on the Steep Stuff Podcast as we chat with Gabe Multer, CEO and co-founder of CarbsFuel. Gabe shares his incredible story of transforming his love for endurance sports into a mission-driven company that aims to make high-quality, low-cost nutrition accessible to athletes everywhere. From his roots in Santa Cruz, California, to his adventures in the Colorado mountains, Gabe's journey is packed with inspiration and valuable lessons for anyone looking to turn their passion into a thriving business.

Ever wondered what goes into creating an energy gel that's both effective and affordable? We dive into CarbsFuel's meticulous product development process, from kitchen experiments to navigating FDA regulations with expert help. Gabe reveals the critical decisions that shaped their innovative energy gel, including the choice between self-manufacturing and contracting out production. Discover how CarbsFuel's disruptive pricing model and strategic marketing efforts helped them stand out in a crowded market, making their products a favorite among endurance athletes.

But it doesn't stop at business. Gabe opens up about starting Holy Cow Racing, a cycling team built on community and inclusivity, and how his entrepreneurial and athletic pursuits complement each other. We also explore broader topics like industry disruption, the role of AI in education and sustainability, and even some fun cryptid lore. This episode is a treasure trove of insights, challenges, and triumphs, perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs and sports enthusiasts alike.

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