Kelsey Lensman has some Big Ass Goals! How did she develop confidence to take them on, and how does she avoid "imposter syndrome" in a time where we can often get caught up in comparison and self-doubt? Find out in segment one. And in segment two, we dissect an interview with iRunFar and Courtney Dauwalter. What is Courtney feeling when she toes the line, how does she view her competitors, and how does she dig deep into the "pain cave" to bring out her best? Find out in segment two. All that and...
Jul 03, 2023•52 min•Season 3Ep. 160
Jeff takes you behind the scenes of the 2023 Western States Endurance Race. Strap in for a wild ride as Jeff shares gripping tales of his unforgettable trip, delves into the rich history of this legendary race, introduces you to the extraordinary field of athletes, and treats you to exclusive audio captured right from the finish line. It's a Big Ass Bonus Episode that brings the Western States Endurance Race to the Herd. Enjoy! New YouTube channel -> YouTube BigAssRunner.com More content on I...
Jun 29, 2023•49 min•Season 3Ep. 159
Safety on the trail is so important, and in segment one we talk with Jodi Fisher. Jodi created Go Guarded, an amazing company creating products to help runners stay safer on the trails. Find out why she feels so passionately about this topic, and what big risk she took to make it happen. And "Coaching Corral" is back as Coach Melody and Coach Greg talk with Coach Jefé about mental toughness. Is it innate, or can it be developed? What are ways athletes can become more mentally tough, and what may...
Jun 26, 2023•1 hr 1 min•Season 3Ep. 158
We share the 5 training principles of the Lydiard Training Method in segment one with Kim Endo-Campbell. Kim returns to the show to update us on how her recents races have gone, and what she and Jefé learned in their Lydiard certification course to help the Big Ass Runner Herd improve their training. It's summer, and we're big Yacht Rock fans. But the data scientists take over the segment and share their Top 10 Yacht Rock songs of all time. How did they do? Do you agree with the list? Find out i...
Jun 19, 2023•46 min•Season 3Ep. 157
What are the biggest mistakes runners make in ultra marathon races? We find out from race director Chris Barnwell of Blaze Trails. He share his top five plus perhaps a few bonuses as well. What's number one? Find out in segment number one. In segment two, Marcie Bazor is back to answer questions from the Big Ass Runner Herd. Find out when her first trail race is going to be, and what her perfect day consists of. All that and more on Episode 156 of the Big Ass Runner Trail Running podcast. New Yo...
Jun 12, 2023•1 hr 4 min•Season 3Ep. 156
We move the Coaching Corral back into the Monday morning podcast, and celebrate with a segment about everyone's favorite topic - gear. Find out what gear Coach Melody, Coach Greg, and Coach Jefé prefer for both training, and for your ultra distances. In segment two, the Bazors are back! We catch up with Marcie and Timmy Time and even have a rap battle between the data scientists and the GPT robots. Who wins? Find out in segment two. All that and more on Episode 155 of the Big Ass Runner Trail Ru...
Jun 05, 2023•45 min
Michael McKnight was having a rough first day at the 2023 Cocodona 250. In fact, he was in 62nd place and looking to pull out of the race. But something changed around the Whiskey Row aid station. Hear all the amazing details in this candid conversation with one of the best 200-plus mile runners in the world. Was Mike always an athlete? What happened early in his childhood that changed the trajectory of his life? How does he balance family, life, and training? You'll love getting to know Mike in...
May 29, 2023•51 min•Season 4Ep. 154
Step inside the Coaching Corral and find out why recovery is important and discover our coaches favorite ways to recover. You'll learn from Coach Melody Bateman @pinetreerunner, Coach Greg Sisengrath @ultraninjarunnr, and Coach Jeff Harrell @jeffharrellyo. We often hear messages of "go go go" and "just one more" but recovery is so important in becoming a better athlete and trail runner. You'll also find out our what our coaches "perfect recovery day" looks like. It might involve puppies. This is...
May 25, 2023•16 min•Season 4Ep. 153
We celebrate Summer by bringing you an episode that brings the heat! First, we talk about running in the heat. Hear the best advise from the Big Ass Runner Herd as you prepare to hit the hot and humid trails this summer. In segment two, we talk about the best summertime songs. Did the Data Scientists create the best summer songs list, or is Jeff's list fire? You get to decide. And we bring you a little comedy from Finland where the Big Ass Runner Trail Running Podcast is incredibly popular. New ...
May 22, 2023•39 min•Season 4Ep. 152
Trail Runners and Ultra Marathoners are pretty good at doing things we don't want to do. But there are still a few things that we tend to procrastinate on. Let's talk about them and hear two stories from El Jefé - see if you relate and uncover some things you need to do but are putting off. In segment two, we sit down with new trail runner, Hayden Harrell, to talk about his upcoming "A Race." We learn about his training regime, the race location, and how he stays motivated during the long and ch...
May 15, 2023•49 min•Season 4Ep. 151
Step inside the Coaching Corral and find out how to deal with blisters, chafing, and sleeping in this Cocodona 250-inspired episode. You'll learn from Coach Melody Bateman @pinetreerunner, Coach Greg Sisengrath @ultraninjarunnr, and Coach Jeff Harrell @jeffharrellyo. Run far enough, and you'll likely deal with blisters. When do you pop them? Do you pop them at all? And what's the best strategy for prevention? Same for chafing...how can you prevent it during longer races. And finally, sleep strat...
May 11, 2023•28 min•Season 4Ep. 150
Get inspired by hybrid athlete and long-time Herd member Angila Franklin @iceprincess.franklin. You won't believe what habit she kicked just months before her first race. And don't miss her advice for those struggling to go after their big dreams. And in segment two, we reveal some fun ideas from the Herd to keep our training fun. One idea even involves dice. Let's roll! Plus, Jeff has a big announcement. It could involved heading west (young man). All that and more on Episode 149 of the Big Ass...
May 08, 2023•53 min•Season 4Ep. 149
Don't miss getting to know fellow Herd member Elaine Vallie as she describes her athletic background, how she became a Mustang, and what motivates her to hit the trails and go for big goals. You'll resonate with how Elaine balances life and trail running. And in segment two, we find out some of Marcie's favorites. Play along and see how many you can guess. Bet you don't know what Marcie's hidden talent is... Plus, hear the story of how Jeff told a passerby he loved them while on a run. Was it as...
May 01, 2023•1 hr 21 min•Season 4Ep. 148
Step inside the Coaching Corral and find out how to incorporate strength training and cross training into your running programming. You'll learn from Coach Melody Bateman @pinetreerunner, Coach Greg Sisengrath @ultraninjarunnr, and Coach Jeff Harrell @jeffharrellyo. We know strength and cross training is important - but how much, how often, and what kind? What if I really enjoy certain cross training modalities? How much running is enough based on the race I'm preparing for? We tackle all those ...
Apr 27, 2023•24 min•Season 4Ep. 147
Hear about van life and big running goals on Inside the Herd with Carissa Bonanza @carissabodanza. Find out what her trail running super power is, and what recent change has put her minutes from some of the most epic trails. And in segment two, we discuss "Gamification" and how fun should be an important ingredient in your trail running recipe. Plus we play a little old school game (literally) to test your knowledge and send you into the "way back" machine. Plus, hear about some fantastic review...
Apr 24, 2023•59 min•Season 4Ep. 146
Let's talk about run streaks and hear from both Candace Burt and Outside Magazine on their current running streaks. And, is there a Clydesdale streak in the future? Find out in segment one. And in segment two, Marcie Bazor is back and we find out what activities Marcie may dislike more than running. Is that possible? It's a funny, and shocking, segment. New YouTube channel -> YouTube BigAssRunner.com More content on IG @big_ass_runner We recommend Trail Shorts Liners and Socks from XOSkin, di...
Apr 17, 2023•47 min•Season 4Ep. 145
Step inside the Coaching Corral and find out what you need to know about how to plan your yearly race calendar from Coach Melody Bateman @pinetreerunner, Coach Greg Sisengrath @ultraninjarunnr, and Coach Jeff Harrell @jeffharrellyo. We look at "A" races - how many should you have and how much time to prepare? How about "B" races? Where should those go in my training. And "C" races...what about those? Can I race too much? Too little? This is our third installment of Coaching Corral and we hope it...
Apr 13, 2023•28 min•Season 4Ep. 144
"Everyone has a story if you take time to read it." On Episode 143 of the Big Ass Runner Trail Running Podcast, we talk about why it is important to remember everyone has their own unique story and may be living through a difficult chapter. By understanding someone's story, we can better appreciate the challenges they may be facing and offer appropriate support and encouragement. And we asked you to share your biggest obstacles to hitting your trail running goals - and the data scientists have c...
Apr 10, 2023•38 min•Season 4Ep. 143
Go "Inside the Herd" with Mike "Moose" Schneider and find out what led him to running and what current steak has him hitting the trails quite often. You'll love getting to know this long-time Herd member. And you likely heard about Camille Herron's incredible 48-hour mileage record. But there's a detail that escaped the Big Ass Runner team that we'll talk about. Um...1,088...what? Plus, if you need a little extra encouragement, Jeff has a special message for you at the end of the episode. New Yo...
Apr 03, 2023•1 hr 6 min•Season 4Ep. 142
Step inside the Coaching Corral and find out what you need to know about pacing and crewing from Coach Melody Bateman @pinetreerunner, Coach Greg Sisengrath @ultraninjarunnr, and Coach Jeff Harrell @jeffharrellyo. We tackle tough questions like: what makes a great pacer? Can my spouse pace or crew me? Do I have to be a "rah-rah" person to pace or crew? What mistakes might I make in either role? And much, much more. You'll gain confidence and knowledge as you learn more about this very important ...
Mar 30, 2023•30 min•Season 4Ep. 141
"Why I Run" is back with a powerful edition featuring long-time Herd member, Jay Stancil. You'll love hearing about Jay's journey to trail running, and the family member that keeps him motivated to get out and run. And we bring you an exclusive race report from the Grasslands Trail Run. Find out how Hayden and Donna Harrell fared in their PR distance efforts, and if there was a course record set or not. We even have some exclusive audio from the event. Plus, we briefly recap the incredible happe...
Mar 27, 2023•38 min•Season 4Ep. 140
Inside the Herd is a favorite and you'll love getting to know Herd member Kim Endo-Campbell as she shares her running journey and her very interesting, very specific post race food. And what's the latest on Jeff's foot surgery? Is he cleared to run? We'll find out Plus, we introduce a new partner to the show that you will absolutely love! They are giving back and doing amazing work around the world. Find out who that is! Episode 139 line-up: Intro: Anna Pre Show: New partnership Segment One: Jef...
Mar 20, 2023•57 min•Season 4Ep. 139
BRAND NEW : The Big Ass Runner Trail Running Podcast is excited to launch a new addition to our line-up - the Coaching Corral ! Every other Thursday, the Coaching Corral will bring together trail running coaches to talk about stuff to help the everyday trail runner cross the finish line. In this first-ever edition, Coach Melody Bateman @pinetreerunner, Coach Greg Sisengrath @ultraninjarunnr, and Coach Jeff Harrell @jeffharrellyo talk about the biggest mistakes trail runners make in training and ...
Mar 16, 2023•39 min•Season 4Ep. 138
If you love Trail Running content, you must tune in to Episode 137 as Jeff shares five documentaries on YouTube you must watch. Which ones make the list and which is his favorite? And Marcie Bazor is back with special guest Timmy Time to talk about the spring, trail running, and all things in between. Find out what she is doing for spring break, and how many miles she is logging. Plus, we talk about a streak in the trail running community that is difficult to believe is still going strong. All t...
Mar 13, 2023•53 min•Season 4Ep. 137
Episode 136 introduces us to Melody Bateman - athlete, running coach and much more. Melody shares her wisdom as a coach and some amazing nuggets on how to stay safer on the trail. And the American Trail Running Association just came out with their survey results from 2022/2023. The data scientists have verified the data, and you'll learn a variety of things including the top 8 brands of trail running shoes. Plus, did the Big Ass Runner actually get a written review? Find out on Episode 136 of th...
Mar 06, 2023•39 min•Season 4Ep. 136
Get to know the amazing Ashley Durstine @azrunnershigh as we bring back a favorite segment, Inside the Herd. Hear about her toughest race, why sushi is important, how '80s music is a thing of the past, and much more. And we review some interesting audio from one of the top finishers at the Black Canyon 100K. Find out what elite runners struggle with that isn't different from the everyday runner. And we make a big announcement about the show that will impact the Big Ass Runner Herd. Episode 136 l...
Feb 27, 2023•55 min•Season 4Ep. 135
One of our favorite segments is "Why I Run" and Episode 134 highlights two very powerful ones. First, Eric Dutcher talks about his diagnosis that, for a period of time, held him back. But once he broke through, big things started to happen. And next, Lovelyn Findley shares what running means to her, and how she is breaking down barriers and creating new expectations. Plus, Jeff shares a few ways the Big Ass Runner Herd can help the show. Episode 134 line-up: Intro: Kim Endo @endotherun Pre Show:...
Feb 20, 2023•31 min•Season 4Ep. 134
Learn about brotherhood, unity, and better health with Jay Tinsley, Captain of the Phoenix Chapter of Black Men Run. You'll learn more about this awesome organization, and how they are committed to health, wellness, and making themselves and their communities stronger. And in segment two, you asked, and Jeff answers. Find out when he might be cleared to run again, what big, scary goals are on the horizon, and when a Big Ass Runner Herd meet-up might actually happen. Plus, you won't believe what ...
Feb 13, 2023•59 min•Season 4Ep. 133
A very powerful and inspiring segment from Mike Fitzsimmons begins Episode 132. Find out why Mike's ultra marathon made it into the Guinness Book of World Records. Grab a tissue and get ready to be touched and motivated. And in segment two, Marcie is here to react to some very funny Running Club names and tells us which one she'd belong to. Find out if there is one for you in this fun and funny segment. Plus, get some behind the scenes audio from the Running the Rose trail race. Episode 132 line...
Feb 06, 2023•1 hr 11 min•Season 4Ep. 132
Episode 131 begins with the incredible story of a 500-mile FKT attempt on the Palmetto Trail. You'll be inspired as you hear the ups and downs of this incredible adventure, and what it took to get them to the finish line. Did they make it? Find out in segment one. In segment two, the Big Ass Runner Herd asked, and Timmy Time delivers his most diverse list of songs to date. Find out which song he turned into poetry, and which songs are right in his wheelhouse. You'll laugh, you'll laugh-cry. Epis...
Jan 30, 2023•1 hr 15 min•Season 4Ep. 131