Chasing Trails Podcast - podcast cover

Chasing Trails Podcast

Brandon Thompson and Geoff Leblancpodcasters.spotify.com
Two friends talk trails, fatherhood and life as 40 year old trail runners who have large families. It's about trail running but more than trail running.
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Episodes

Summer Running

In this episode of the Chasing Trails podcast, Brandon and Geoff share their summer adventures, including vacations, camping trips, and the joys of sourdough bread. They delve into the challenges of summer running, discussing issues like sweating, bugs, and the difficulties of keeping trail snacks from melting. The conversation takes a nostalgic turn as they reminisce about their favorite childhood candies, highlighting the fun and challenges of summer activities.

Jul 11, 20251 hr 4 minSeason 3Ep. 14

Nick Richards on Winning the Keji Backyard Ultra

In this episode the boys sit down with Nick Richards the 2025 winner of the Keji Backyard Ultra. He talks about his race experiences as well as what he learned about himself. The boys also break down their experiences running with their daughters in the East Coast Beast Coast.

Jul 04, 202550 minSeason 3Ep. 12

Bethany MacFarlane on the Road to Trail Running

The boys had a great time sitting down with Bethany as she shares her journey from early sports experiences to becoming a prominent figure in trail running. She discusses her transition from road to trail running, the challenges she faced while training for the Boston Marathon, and her preparations for the upcoming QMT. The conversation also touches on the importance of community in running, the benefits of yoga for runners, and the mental aspects of endurance sports. Bethany's enthusiasm and in...

Jun 27, 20251 hr 2 minSeason 3Ep. 12

Chester Dana on the Mastodon Rumbler

In this conversation, Chester Dana shares his journey into trail running, detailing how he transitioned from hiking to marathon running and eventually to ultra marathons. He discusses his experiences in various races, the challenges faced during long-distance running, and the importance of setting milestones. Chester also introduces the Mastodon Rumbler, a trail race he has organized to raise funds for a local playground, highlighting the community support and logistics involved in making the ev...

Jun 13, 202552 minSeason 3Ep. 11

Melissa Allen on Eating and Running

In this conversation, performance dietitian Melissa Allen shares her insights on nutrition for trail runners, emphasizing the importance of hydration, food choices, and recovery. She discusses her personal journey into running, the healing power of nature, and the mental aspects of endurance sports. The conversation also touches on the challenges athletes face with food and the need for a balanced approach to nutrition. We also touch on stress and its impact on eating habits are explored, along ...

Jun 06, 20251 hr 22 minSeason 3Ep. 7

Rompin' Rockwood Review '25

The boys spend some time breaking down their latest Ultra the Rompin' Rockwood 50k. They'll talk about what went right and what went wrong. Tune in for the all the gory details on this amazing but "punchy" race.

May 30, 20251 hr 10 minSeason 3Ep. 7

Chrissy Cusack on the Trans Canada Trail

In this episode, trail runner Chrissy Cusack shares her journey from a novice to an accomplished trail runner, recounting her first race experience and the lessons learned along the way. She discusses her transition to longer distances, including her first ultra marathon, and the challenges that come with it. Chrissy also highlights her role as the coordinator for community development with the Trans Canada Trail, emphasizing the importance of volunteerism and community engagement in maintaining...

May 23, 202558 minSeason 3Ep. 7

Jess Vickruck - Empowering Women in Trail Running

This week the boys had a great conversation with local trail runner and founder of the Fredericton Women's Trail Running Group Trailmix. We spend some time sharing our love of trail snacks as well as her journey from being a non-runner to a passionate trail runner, highlighting the importance of community, the joy of trail running, and the unique experiences that come with it. She discusses her upcoming races, the camaraderie among women in trail running, and the challenges of balancing family l...

May 16, 20251 hr 2 minSeason 3Ep. 6

Would you Rather...Trail Edition

In this episode of the Chasing Trails Podcast it's just the boys as they sit down and talk about their training mishaps from the past week as well as play a little fun game of Would you Rather. It's fun, it's unprofessional it's classic chasing trails. Enjoy!

May 09, 202552 min

Wayne Walsh - Running on the Rock

In this conversation, Wayne Walsh shares his journey into ultra running, detailing his experiences with various races, including the UTMB and local events in Newfoundland. He discusses the unique challenges of trail running in Newfoundland, the growth of the trail running community, and his training strategies. Wayne also reflects on the different race formats, including the backyard ultra, and shares his future racing plans.Wayne's Instagram...

May 02, 20251 hr 1 minSeason 3Ep. 5

S03E04 -- Mark Hemmings

In this engaging conversation, Mark Hemmings shares his multifaceted journey as an author, photographer, ultra marathoner, and coffee enthusiast. He discusses the unique blend of photography and running, how he uses photography as motivation to run, and his ambitious goals for marathon running. Mark also shares his experiences leading trail running groups in Japan, compares beautiful running locations around the world, and outlines his future running aspirations. To see more of what Mark is up t...

Apr 25, 202558 minSeason 3Ep. 4

A Conversation with Sachin Latti

In this conversation, @sachinmotion shares his journey of running across Canada to raise awareness and funds for mental health and addiction recovery. He emphasizes the importance of having a purpose beyond oneself, the inspiring responses from the community, and the impact of sharing personal stories. Sach encourages those struggling with mental health to reach out for help and highlights the significance of social media in connecting with others. He discusses his fundraising goals and the char...

Apr 18, 20251 hr 3 minSeason 3Ep. 1

Conversation with Mark Campbell

This week the boys sit down with 63yr old ultra runner Mark Campbell. We talk about what it's like to run at his age, what he does to get ready to run and why he loves doing it. https://www.nutratology.com - promo code CHASINGTRAILS10 https://www.saintjohntrailrunning.com https://www.resiliencethroughfitness.com

Apr 11, 202555 minSeason 3Ep. 2

Season 3 Kick Off!

The boys shake off the rust and kick off season three with guest Mark McColgan from Saint John Trail Running as they talk about the rundown of races this year as well as the launch of the the new SJTR Trail Series. It's a great peek into the Atlantic Canadian Trail Running and Ultra scene. You'll love it. Thanks to our Sponsors: Saint John Trail Running https://www.saintjohntrailrunning.com Resilience Through Fitness https://www.resiliencethroughfitness.com...

Apr 04, 20251 hr 17 minSeason 3Ep. 1

A Chasing Trails Christmas 2024

For this special Christmas episode the boys spread some holiday cheer by talking about their recommended stocking stuffers and by chatting with Colin Swift about what shoes you'd like to see under the tree and the best shoe of 2024! Make sure you go and comment on our instagram post about who you'd like to have an Egg Nog Spice Coffee with to win an exclusive Chasing Trails Mug and a bag of coffee. You can check out Colin's shoe reviews ⁠ here ⁠ You can follow Chasing Trails on Youtube here...

Dec 17, 202446 min

Season 2 Finale

The boys spend some time reflecting on the year that was and some of the best moments of Season 2.

Nov 29, 202451 minSeason 2Ep. 59

The Winter Episode

In this episode of the Chasing Trails podcast, hosts Brandon and Geoff reconnect after a brief hiatus. This week the boys slide into the topic of winter running. They talk about some of the best tips and tricks to ensure a safe and enjoyable running experience during the winter months.

Nov 22, 202455 minSeason 2Ep. 56

Lee Murphy and the Team Backyard Ultra World Championships,

In this conversation, Lee Murphy shares his experiences and insights from his recent participation with Team Canada in the World Team Backyard Ultra Championships. He discusses his training regimen, the dynamics of Team Canada, and the unique format of backyard ultras. Lee reflects on his motivations, the challenges of ultra running, and the supportive atmosphere of the event, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the sport and his personal journey. Additionally, he highlight...

Nov 08, 20241 hr 5 min

Special Long Run Episode

In the first of what we hope will be many episodes in our Long Run Trail series where, Brandon sits down with trail runners Dawson Mossman, Brian Demmings, and Tim McDonough to discuss in a longer format than normal their recent ultra racing experiences. They delve into the challenges and triumphs of the Swiss Peaks 360 and Tour de Geants races, exploring the physical and mental demands of ultra running. The conversation highlights the camaraderie among runners, the beauty of the landscapes they...

Nov 01, 20241 hr 20 min

Explore Lorneville

In this conversation, Brandon and Geoff welcome Leah Alexander and Adam Wilkins from Explore Lorneville, who share their experiences with trail running and the development of a popular trail system in Saint John New Brunswick. They discuss their personal journeys into running, the challenges of maintaining trails, and the importance of community involvement in preserving outdoor spaces. This conversation explores the journey of community engagement in trail building, the cultural shifts towards ...

Oct 25, 20241 hr 13 minSeason 2Ep. 55

Thanksgiving Recap + World Backyard Ultra Championships

Summary In this episode of the Chasing Trails podcast, Geoff and Brandon recap their Thanksgiving experiences, discuss the upcoming Backyard Ultra Championship, and reflect on the running community's support. They also review the documentary 'Running in Circles' and share their thoughts on food traditions, highlighting their Thanksgiving dinners and dessert preferences. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, family, and the joy of sharing meals together....

Oct 18, 202451 minSeason 2Ep. 17

The Chiggy Ultra Recap with John and Deb Colicot

In this engaging conversation, Brandon and Geoff host John and Deb Colicot, trail running enthusiasts and founders of the Wentworth Valley Trail Runners. They share their personal journeys into trail running, the founding of their race organization, and the experiences surrounding their popular Chiggy Ultra race. The discussion highlights the joys and challenges of trail running, the sense of community it fosters, and the couple's commitment to creating memorable race experiences for participant...

Oct 11, 202448 minSeason 1Ep. 1

Life Updates

This week the boys share briefly a few life updates and what's up next for them. It's a quick episode today but full of heart.

Oct 04, 202433 minSeason 2Ep. 53

Running in Circles - A conversation with Alex Quinn

In this engaging conversation, Alex Quinn shares his journey from participating in extreme challenges to creating a documentary that highlights mental health and suicide prevention. He reflects on his experiences with the 4x4x48 challenge, his first 100-mile race, and the emotional rollercoaster of premiering his documentary. Alex discusses the vulnerability of sharing personal stories, the impact of public speaking in schools, and his involvement in suicide prevention initiatives. He emphasizes...

Sep 27, 20241 hr 1 min

Loonie Loops '24 Review

In this episode of the Chasing Trails podcast, hosts Brandon and Geoff reflect on their experiences at the 2024 version of Looney Loops. They discus the event's organization, weather conditions, and the community atmosphere. They share personal insights from their race experiences, including challenges faced and the importance of volunteers. The conversation highlights the camaraderie among runners and the excitement surrounding future races, particularly the upcoming Chiggy race.

Sep 20, 202454 minSeason 2Ep. 51

Resilience Through Fitness with Deven Kennedy

We're excited to introduce you to one of our new sponsors Devin Kennedy, founder of Resilience Through Fitness (RTF)! In this episode Deven shares his story of how he found a passion for running and fitness after a life-changing incident. He started RTF to help others, especially first responders, navigate the challenges of training and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. RTF focuses on a personalized, holistic approach to fitness, taking into account individual needs and schedules. Devin's dream f...

Sep 13, 20241 hr 6 minSeason 2Ep. 50

Looney Loops Preview with Mark McColgan

Mark McColgan head of Saint John Trail Running joins the Chasing Trails podcast to discuss the upcoming Looney Loops race in Atlantic Canada. The race is a 24-hour trail race with a 3-kilometer loop around a lake. Mark shares details about the race, including the challenging terrain and the community-based atmosphere. He also talks about the involvement of the YMCA and the donations that will be made to support their programs. Mark highlights some new additions to this year's race, such as a PR ...

Sep 06, 20241 hr 1 min

Allison MacFadden and a Big Announcement

This week on the podcast Allison McFadden, an accomplished trail runner, shares her running journey and recent achievements in the trail racing world. She discusses how she got into trail running and her love for the sport. Allison also talks about her experience running from one tip of Nova Scotia to the other, raising money for the IWK. She highlights the importance of women's participation in trail running and the inspiration provided by female role models. Allison shares her future plans, in...

Aug 30, 202449 minSeason 2Ep. 48

Runners Funk and How to Handle it

In this episode, Geoff and Brandon discuss the runner's funk and share tips on how to overcome it. They explore the idea of trying new running routes, going back to basics, and participating in social runs. They also discuss the pressure of setting goals and the importance of making running a lifestyle choice.

Aug 23, 202448 minSeason 2Ep. 24

Capes 100 with Mark Hemmings

In this episode Mark Hemmings shares his trail running journey, from starting with road races to transitioning to trail running and eventually tackling the Capes 100. He emphasizes the importance of learning from the greats and going all-in when pursuing a new challenge. Mark also highlights the joy of running with his daughter and the beauty of the Cape Breton course. He discusses the logistical aspects of the race, including crew support and drop bags, and shares his experience running through...

Aug 16, 202459 min
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