The Steep Stuff Podcast

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Kieran Nay takes us through his inspiring journey from Colorado Springs to Gunnison, sharing his experiences and achievements at races like the Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon. We explore the often-overlooked trails in Palmer Lake and delve into the local legends that have shaped his running career. Kieran also sheds light on his upcoming challenges at the Broken Arrow Sky Race and GoPro Games.

Facing the uncertainty of a sesamoid injury, Kieran opens up about the physical and emotional hurdles he encountered during recovery. He recounts consultations with top medical professionals and the difficult process of redefining his identity beyond running. Balancing graduate school and exploring alternative activities like mountain biking, Kieran's story is one of resilience and determination. His emotional comeback at races like the Pikes Peak Ascent highlights the enduring competitive spirit that keeps him moving forward.

Our conversation also takes us to the vibrant outdoor culture of Gunnison, Colorado, where high-altitude training and a supportive community create a unique environment for athletes. We discuss the camaraderie among local talents like Lindsay Herman, Maddie Hart, and Cam Smith, and the impressive performances at races like Desert Rats. From course confusion to unexpected encounters with top marathoners, this episode is packed with compelling stories of athletic triumph and personal growth.

Kieran Nay IG - @kieran_nay

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Join us as we chat with Benjamin Townsend to recap his race at the Skyrace Des Mathys, as well as a results breakdown of Zegama & the Mexico Sky Challenge. Last but not least we preview the Hochkonig Skyrace taking place this upcoming weekend in Maria Alm, Austria. 

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Welcome to Episode 1 of the Sub Stuff, a weekly news report of all the exciting news events happening in the sub-ultra space over the last week. We get into race reports, race previews, FKT's, sponsor changes - you name it! It is literally all things, this week in Sub-Ultra. 

In this week's episode we dive into : 
- Recap  of the Skyrace Gorges Du Tarn
- Preview of the Mexico Sky Challenge with podium picks 
- Preview of Zegama with podium picks 
- Eli Hemming's Bear Peak FKT 
- And more shoutouts 

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Ever wondered how trail runners safeguard their bones while pounding the tough terrain or how marathoners fine-tune those last few weeks before the big race? Sean Rimmer from Run Potential PT joins us again to shed light on these pressing issues. Together, we tackle the nitty-gritty of bone stress injuries—from spotting the early signs to understanding the complex gradations—and Sean walks us through his own tapering rituals that help peak performance when it matters most.

The debate on whether to pump up the jams or embrace nature's soundtrack while running is as old as the hills we conquer. We dive into this contentious topic, weighing the uplift music can provide against the need for trail awareness and etiquette. Prepare for heartening tales from running events that bind our community tighter, and insights on why lacing up your shoes might just be the first step towards forming meaningful connections and finding fulfillment in the great outdoors.

As our conversation journeys on, we wind down paths less traveled, pondering the mental and spiritual facets of running. From runners who embody the grit of the sport to the more whimsical mysteries of moon landing conspiracies and the elusive Bigfoot, this episode is a tapestry of tales that bridges the metaphysical with the physical. So, join us for a run of the mind, and don't forget to reach out to Sean with your thoughts and help this podcast community grow by sharing your own stories and feedback.

IG - @runpotentialpt 
www.runpotentialpt.com

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Trail-running dynamo Erin Ton takes us through the highs and lows of her mountainous pursuits on the Steep Stuff Podcast, from her transformative post-college years to her current record-chasing ambitions. If her tales of scaling peaks in cocktail dresses and high heels don’t grab your attention, her principled stand to preserve the integrity of outdoor sportsmanship will. Erin's journey is anything but ordinary, and her story of self-supported endurance running, complete with living out of a Jeep Wrangler and strategically excluding Culebra Peak from her records, is both captivating and inspiring.

Facing the unpredictable wrath of nature, Erin narrates a particularly chilling encounter with a lightning storm during the Crestone Traverse and the eerie discovery of a reminder from a previous rescue attempt. While unpacking the controversies and complexities of private land ownership in the outdoor community, Erin exemplifies the essence of sticking to one’s values amidst backlash. As she gears up for the Nolans 14 line and the Colorado Trail, we dissect the unique demands each challenge presents and share the strategy behind her ambitious goal to set new benchmarks in a single summer.

Beyond the adrenaline-fueled escapades, our conversation with Erin ventures into the realm of wildlife conservation and the political delicacies surrounding the reintroduction of predators like wolves in Colorado. Erin's innovative high-heel 14ers challenge not only breaks norms but also fosters intriguing collaborations, inviting us to rethink our approach to adventure. Wrap up this episode feeling invigorated by Erin’s indomitable spirit and perhaps, just perhaps, consider dusting off those trail shoes—or high heels—for your own mountain adventure.

Erin Ton IG - erin_ton7
Strava @ Erin Ton 

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Today, I sit down with Evan Paul to uncover the raw and riveting world of Search and Rescue. From the practicalities of high-risk rescues in Chaffee County South to the psychological toll on those who save lives, we navigate the depths of SAR operations. We also celebrate the confounding joy of mountain sports, sharing tips on essential gear for the backcountry and acknowledging the unsung heroes who make our adventures possible.

Evan's journey from the snowboarding slopes to pacing ultra-runners through the night unveils the essence of camaraderie and the indelible spirit of outdoor communities. We swap stories of coaching athletes, guiding backcountry expeditions, and the unexpected turns in life that lead us to fulfilling careers away from the conventional paths. Listen as Evan and I dissect the nuances of pacing, laugh over the quirks of coaching, and pay homage to the transformative power of supporting each other through life's various races.

With Evan's colorful history involving celebrity clients and the magnetism of outdoor adventures, this episode takes a turn towards the peculiar and exhilarating. We recount bizarre escapades with naked runners and rumored cults, while also tackling the more terrestrial topic of UFO skepticism. Meanwhile, we don't shy away from the competitive streak in us all, whether we're sprinting across social media platforms like Strava or simply relishing the anticipatory buzz of trying new gear. Join us as we underscore the vital role of SAR teams and the simple ways you can support these guardians of the wild.

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Trailblazer Dreama Walton joins me on an unforgettable journey through the peaks and valleys of her life, from overcoming personal adversities to leading the charge in trail and mountain running. As a resilient mom, veteran, and athlete, Dreama opens up about her transformative experiences, giving listeners a firsthand account of how she channels her passion into fostering a love for the outdoors in the next generation. Our conversation takes a deep dive into the heart of trail running, examining Dreama's mixed feelings on its commercialization and potential Olympic future, while celebrating the community spirit that defines the sport.

When Dreama Walton graced the scene with her personal documentary, "The Dreama, Team," and her impactful Beyond the Trail podcast, the trail running community stood up and took notice. In this episode, we explore the serendipitous creation of her film and its emotional narrative, as well as the profound influences of her military service on her life and ultra-running discovery. Dreama's candid recounting of her deployment to Baghdad and subsequent travel adds a layer of profound depth to her story, showcasing her commitment to global understanding and human rights.

Ending on a note of aspiration and admiration, Dreama shares her training challenges in Colorado Springs, her respect for legends like Kilian Jornet and Courtney Dauwalter, and her ambitious dream to tackle iconic races, despite the tricky lottery entries. Her story, rife with resilience, purpose, and a spirit of adventure, is not just about running—it's about the courage to chase dreams and the tenacity to make them real. Tune in for an episode that's a testament to the human spirit and the trails that beckon us to tread them.

Dreama Walton IG - @dreamawalton
Documentary - Dreama Team / @dreamateamfilm
Podcast - Beyond the Trail Podcast - @beyond.the.trail.podcast  
Youtube - @BeyondTheTrailPodcast
Youth Trail Running Camp - @COS-TRCK / www.cotrailrun.com

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This week's Steep Stuff podcast guest is none other than the trailblazer himself,  Benjamin Townsend; who brings the highs and lows of his running journey right into your ears. From his childhood roots in Logan, Utah, to the punishing Broken Arrow Skyrace, Benjamin doesn't hold back on the details of his intense training and the unforgettable races that have marked his ascent in the trail running world.

Navigating the undulating path of trail running isn't just about endurance; it's a dance of strategy and support, something that Benjamin and I dissect with the precision of a well-placed foot on a mountain trail. We unravel the contrasts between American and European approaches to the sport, and consider the emerging trend of trading college running tracks for rugged trails. Equally, we reflect on the shared stories from events like the XTERRA 21K National Championship and the Iron Face Challenge, granting you a window into the technicalities that make each race a unique beast to conquer.

The episode isn't just about looking back; it's a forward march to the future of trail running. We debate the purity of the sport in the face of growing commercialization and its potential Olympic future, wrapping up a conversation that's as varied and challenging as the trails Benjamin and I have both come to love. Join us for an episode that’s as much about the soul of running as it is about the sweat and dirt.

Benjamin Townsend IG -  @benjamin.tsend 

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Join the thrill as Jackson Cole,  a La Sportiva teammate and mountain running powerhouse, sits across from me, James Lauriello, revealing the highs and challenges of his career. From his exhilarating victory at the Minotaur Sky Race to a record-smashing Ten Mile Traverse FKT in Colorado, Jackson's tales are bound to ignite the trail community's excitement. We delve into his transformative journey, which led him from New Zealand's rugged terrains to the majestic Sangre De Cristo mountains, rekindling his love for running. It's not just about the victories, though; we also peer into Jackson's strategies for the upcoming 2024 season, uncovering the parallels between our philosophies, all while reflecting on the synergy that has shaped our endurance.

As Jackson reflects on his move to Missoula, we uncover the city's magnetic pull for athletes and the unexpected benefits it brings to training regimes. We're talking high-caliber competition in local races, and the strategic importance of endurance for the season's more grueling runs. The Missoula community, with figures like Adam Peterman and Jeff Mogavero have been an inspiring force for Jackson, honing his approach to training. We even take a step back to appreciate Jackson's under-the-radar yet outstanding 2023 season, as he carved his trail across European sky races, setting the stage for a deep dive into his latest athletic achievements.

Finally, we venture beyond the domestic realm and into the heart of international competition, where Jackson shares insights on the distinct nature of events like Matterhorn Ultraks and the technical training critical for excelling in sky races. The conversation then shifts gears towards the fascinating differences between the Golden Trail Series' fast courses and sky running's rugged mountaineering-style challenges. We wrap up by celebrating the emerging young talents in the sport and paying homage to the legends who continue to inspire athletes across the globe. So, lace up your trail shoes and prepare to be inspired by the raw, exhilarating experiences of an elite athlete who breathes passion into the world of mountain running and endurance sports.

Jackson Cole - IG - @jayrcolee

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Ever wondered what it takes to keep your running shoes pounding the pavement year after year? Join us as Jeff Wilson, the Colorado Springs running maestro, shares his journey from competitive runner to strength training advocate, and how he balances both with a thriving personal training business.  We also take a nostalgic trip through Michigan sports – the triumphs, the heartaches, and everything in between.

This podcast isn't just about the solo sprints; it's a collective sprint through the importance of strength training, debunking the myths holding many runners back. Jeff's insights into the evolution of wellness culture and its nuanced implications for runners at various life stages resonate with anyone looking to go the distance. We get personal, too, with discussions on dietary adjustments, testosterone deficiencies, and how these hurdles can reshape an athlete's trajectory. It's a candid look at the interplay between physical and mental wellbeing that underscores the longevity of a runner's career.

As we cross the finish line of this episode, we reflect on the profound influence a supportive community and tailored training have on an athlete, novice or expert. From the nitty-gritty of hybrid training to the philosophical musings on aging and athletics, this conversation with Jeff Wilson is more than just a run through the park. It's a deep dive into how we can adapt, overcome, and continue to set personal records in running and life. So whether you're lacing up for your first mile or your thousandth, this episode promises to fuel your fire and keep your legs moving forward.

Jeff Wilson, IG - @coachjeffwilson
Jeff's Personal Training Business - totalbodyrunning.com 

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