The Steep Stuff Podcast

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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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Ready for an adrenaline-packed episode of Steep Stuff Podcast? Hold on tight as we bring you the latest thrills from the mountain running scene! From Joseph Gray’s jaw-dropping 25th national championship win at Loon Mountain to Lauren Gregory and Rachel Tomciak making the USA national team, we have all the juicy details. We’ll also take you through the intense battles at the Cirque Series Snowbird in Utah and give you an exclusive glimpse into the drama-filled Cordillera Blanca Sky Race in Peru. Feel the excitement as we celebrate high-flying performances from top athletes across the globe, including stunning finishes at the Kendall Mountain Run and Mount Marathon.

Join us as we shine a spotlight on heroic local racers like Rio and Benjamin Townsend, plus a special nod to podcast friend Jackson Cole's top-ten triumph in Peru. Discover how Jose Manuel Cuzepe and Karina Carciolo dominated the Codora Cora de la Ria Blanca Sky Race while also catching up on key moments from the Kendall Mountain Run featuring stars like Cam Smith and Noah Williams. As we wrap up, get pumped for the upcoming Speedgoat 50K and 28K in Snowbird, Utah, where an electrifying rematch between Adam Peterman and David Sinclair awaits. Don’t miss out on this episode filled with gripping recaps and previews of what's next in the world of mountain running!

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Ever wondered how an athlete from a small golf town in North Carolina could conquer the world of trail running? Join us as we welcome the godfather of sub-ultra trail running, Andy Wacker, who shares his transformational journey from his hometown of Pinehurst to the professional trail running circuits. Hear about Andy’s early love for nature and bushwhacking, his competitive high school career, and his time running for the University of Colorado in Boulder. Gain insider knowledge on Andy’s ongoing projects, including the Trail Team, and his exciting plans for the 2023 and 2024 seasons.

We dig into the hurdles trail runners face when entering elite races, delving into Andy’s personal experiences and the essential mindset shift required to overcome these challenges. From the necessity of a UTMB index score to the financial burdens of self-funding trips to world championships, Andy’s journey is a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice. Learn about the creation and impact of the Trail Team, an organization designed to nurture emerging trail running talents, and hear the compelling story of Christian Allen, proving the untapped potential in under-the-radar athletes.

Building a supportive community is at the core of trail running's evolution in the U.S., and Andy takes us through the inception and structure of the Trail Team. Discover how avoiding corporate sponsorships allows young athletes to receive genuine mentorship and the freedom to pursue races aligning with their personal goals. From the unique experiences at training camps in Rocky Mountain National Park to tales of overcoming physical and mental challenges in international competitions, Andy’s stories are a blend of resilience, community, and the relentless pursuit of passion. Don’t miss out on this enriching conversation with one of trail running’s most influential figures!

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Ready to conquer the peaks with us? This week on Steep Stuff, James Lauriello and Nick Tusa offer a compelling preview of the Cirque Series Snowbird race, doubling as the US Mountain Running Champs. Set your calendars for July 13, 2024, because we’re diving into every grueling detail of this 8.7-mile course featuring a punishing 3,566 feet of vertical gain. From Nick's latest FKTs, including his climb of Mount Shavano, to the anticipated rematch between Christian Allen and Meiki Rosseau, we've got all the high-altitude highlights covered. Plus, updates on standout athletes like Grayson Murphy, Jade Bellsburg, and Anna Mae Flynn will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Are you curious about who’s making waves in the mountain running scene? Tune in as we spotlight key contenders for the upcoming season. Seth James Demore's uphill prowess and recent victories make him a force to reckon with, and we also discuss the rising stars like Christian, Kieran Nay, Cole Campbell, and Hawk Hall. On the women’s side, keep an eye on Megan Lacey, Giselle Slotboom, MK Sullivan, and more. We also break down Taylor Stack's monumental performance at Broken Arrow and his potential to shake things up in future races.

To wrap up, we dive into the excitement building around the US Mountain Running events. Hawk Call’s impressive sixth-place finish at the Broken Arrow 23K and the legacy he’s following from his father, OCR legend Hobie Call, set the stage for an inspiring narrative. We highlight the relentless drive of athletes like Hawk Call, Cole Campbell, Kieran Nay, and others. For the women, Grayson Murphy and AnnaMae Flynn lead a fierce pack including Giselle Slotboom and Jade Belzberg. Get ready for a season full of strategic maneuvers, heart-pounding races, and unexpected twists, all set against the stunning backdrop of the mountain running community.

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Ever wondered how a simple bar bet could give rise to an iconic race that captures the spirit of a mountain town? Join Nick Tusa and me as we uncover the fascinating history of the Kendall Mountain Run in Silverton, Colorado. You'll hear about legendary athletes who've conquered its grueling 12-mile course, including names like Jim Wamsley and David Sinclair, and get an insider look at this year's top contenders. We'll share our own experiences and challenges on the rugged terrain, offering tips and insights for those eager to tackle the race themselves.

But the excitement doesn’t end there. We also venture into the world of vertical racing in Europe, dissecting what sets these competitions apart and profiling formidable runners like Tyler Vierman and Cam Smith. Our passion for trail running shines through as we dream up future adventures and discuss plans for more niche, technical races that push the boundaries of what’s possible. With thrilling personal anecdotes, expert analysis, and a sneak peek into upcoming events, this episode is a treasure trove for trail running enthusiasts. Tune in and get ready to be inspired!

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Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping breakdown of the Loon Mountain Race, taking place on July 7th, 2024, in the scenic Lincoln, New Hampshire. We'll navigate the demanding six-mile course with nearly 3,000 feet of elevation gain, spotlighting the fierce competition and notable returns like the legendary Joseph Gray and his highly anticipated rematch with Tyler McCandless. Discover insider details about the USATF Vertical Mountain Running Championship selection process and how it might shake up the race dynamics. 

Unearth the secrets of the burgeoning trail running scene as we spotlight rising stars transitioning from other sports, like triathlon and gravel cycling, and compare them to Eli Hemming's meteoric rise. We delve into the mentorship roles influential athletes like Andy Wacker play, guiding newcomers through contract negotiations and race strategies. On the women's front, we analyze how recent performances by Rachel Tomziak and Casey Ammen position them as frontrunners. Plus, we offer a sneak peek into the competitive tension leading up to the Kendall Mountain Race, setting the stage for an exhilarating season. Join us for expert predictions, athlete insights, and a preview of thrilling upcoming races.

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What makes trail running one of the most demanding and rewarding sports out there? Get ready for an adrenaline-packed episode as we uncover the highs and lows of some of the most challenging trail running events of the season. We start with a deep dive into the Kaiserkrone Skyrace in Austria, where athletes faced a brutal 25-kilometer course with over 9,000 feet of climbing. You'll hear about the remarkable performances of Anastasia Rubstova and Manu Morales, plus my own unforgettable experience in the Cirque Series in Brighton, Utah, battling a 6.7-mile run with 3,100 feet of vertical gain. The electric atmosphere and unexpected technical challenges made it a race to remember for all participants.

Next up, we celebrate the extraordinary athletes who took on the Leadville Trail Marathon and Heavy Half Marathon in Colorado. From Mary Denholm's impressive sub-four-hour marathon win to Jacob Scraba's fierce victory in the men's marathon, these races were nothing short of spectacular. We also shine a spotlight on incredible performances by Alicia McDonald, Dominique Stelzio, and Chrissy Lofgren, among others. Tune in for an exciting recap and discover why these events are some of the most anticipated in the trail running community. Plus, don’t forget to check out our episodes featuring in-depth stories from trail stars Jacob Scraba and Lacey Burgess.

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