The Steep Stuff Podcast

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What does it take to rise to the top of the trail running world? Find out as we chat with Mason Coppi, a rising star who just clinched victory at the Cirque Series Alta. From discovering his passion for running in Southern California's middle school tracks to dominating races with an infectious optimism, Mason's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Listen as he shares his training secrets, race-day rituals, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the courses that keep him motivated.

Trail running is evolving, and we're here to discuss its newfound popularity and competitiveness. Athletes like Grayson Murphy and Anna Gibson are leading the charge, transitioning from track to trail and pushing the boundaries of what's possible. We delve into how improvements in training, nutrition, and coaching are setting the stage for even faster race times and the allure that has NCAA runners flocking to the trails.

Ever wondered how to master the art of technical trail running or how to pace yourself on race day? We've got you covered with expert tips and personal anecdotes about overcoming challenges on courses like Whiteface and Breakneck. From creative training techniques in less mountainous regions to the joy of community and camaraderie in the sport, this episode is packed with insights and humor that will leave you eager to lace up your running shoes and hit the trails.

Mason Coppi Instagram - mcoppi44 
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What happens when you gather some of the most elite mountain runners and set them loose on the rugged trails of Telluride? This episode, we unlock the secrets of the Telluride Mountain Run, where the stakes are high and the competition is fierce. Despite my initial hesitation due to personal ties with many participants, I couldn't resist the allure of this riveting event. Join me as we explore the race's evolution, Arc'teryx stepping in as the new title sponsor, and the star-studded lineup that includes standout names like Nick Corey, Dan Metzger, Lindsay McDonald, and more. 

With weather forecasts creating a buzz and potential safety concerns on everyone's minds, we dissect how each runner's strategy might shift on race day. Tune in to hear about the remarkable competitors such as Jenny Yeaman, Meg Cook, and Chrissy Lofgren, each bringing their unique strengths to the challenging courses. From the grueling 40-mile trail to the brisk 13-mile dash, we've got every critical detail covered, including course layouts, start times, and what makes each race distinct. 

Curious about who might take the podium? Get our exclusive insights and predictions on the top contenders. Discover why Lindsay McDonald is poised to dominate the women's 40 miler and which of the men's elite—Nick Corey, Dan Metzger, or Jack Daly—might clinch the win. On the 24-mile front, we spotlight Lindsay Allison, Isabel Pool Hosts, and Lauren Kree in the women's race, and Cam Smith and Ryan Becker in the men's. Don't miss this comprehensive preview packed with analysis, forecasts, and everything you need to feel the thrill of the Telluride Mountain Run.

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Get ready for an adrenaline-charged episode of the Steep Stuff Podcast! This week, I, James Lauriello, recount my exhilarating experience at the Cirque Series Alta race, where despite facing technical descents and calf cramps, I proudly snagged a top-10 finish. You'll get an insider's preview of the upcoming Matterhorn Ultraks Extreme race and hear from Jackson Cole, last year's top-10 finisher, as he shares his insights on tackling its daunting 25K course with 2,900 meters of climbing. Later, we set our sights on the Trofeo Kima Sky Race, promising a grueling 52K challenge that will push even the most seasoned runners to their limits.

In this episode, I also reflect on the distinct challenges and benefits of racing at various altitudes, with personal anecdotes from recent competitions, and how racing at different elevations has shaped my strategy and performance. Don't miss the exciting announcement of our upcoming Friday podcast featuring Cirque Series Alta winner Mason Kopi, whose inspiring journey and vision for the sport are nothing short of motivational. As I gear up for the Grand Targi race, which plays to my strengths, your support means the world to me. Tune in for a thrilling ride through the world of extreme trail running and beyond!

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Join us for a thrilling conversation with ski mountaineering and mountain running legend, Rea Kolbl , as she shares her remarkable journey through her 2023 and 2024 seasons. From her ambitious goal of making the Slovenian Olympic team for ski mountaineering to her recent return to Europe, Rea brings a wealth of experience and passion to this episode. We explore the grueling challenges of the Cirque Series race in Brighton, discuss breathtaking wildlife encounters, and reflect on the intricacies of technical running. Ray’s insights offer a unique window into the life of a dedicated mountain athlete, making this an episode you won't want to miss.

In an inspiring segment, we delve into the transformation of a former gymnast who found her stride in trail running and obstacle course racing. Her move from Slovenia to the United States for college brought about cultural shocks and new opportunities, leading her to Boulder, Colorado, where she discovered a supportive community that fueled her athletic pursuits. We also discuss her impressive academic achievements in physics, astrophysics, and material science, and how these have shaped her coaching techniques. This segment highlights the resilience required to overcome personal challenges and the power of community in achieving new athletic heights.

We then shift gears to discuss the intricacies of winter training and summer adventures, examining the balance between structured Olympic training and spontaneous mountain escapades. The conversation covers the physical and mental transitions between sports seasons, the unique aspects of ski mountaineering entering the Olympic stage, and the importance of training intensity at various altitudes. Wrapping up with a look at sky races, competitive drive, and the advantages of being based in Europe, this episode is brimming with valuable insights for both aspiring and seasoned athletes. Tune in for an episode filled with passion, expertise, and the spirit of adventure.

Rea Kolbl  IG - @reakolbl

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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
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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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