In this powerful and inspiring episode, Andrew, Stephanie, and Dylan sit down with Meg Eckert, an ultrarunner who recently achieved a stunning feat at Big’s Backyard Ultra by completing 87 laps, setting a new women’s world record with a total of 362.5 miles. Known for its grueling format, the backyard ultra challenges runners to complete a 4.167-mile loop every hour until only one remains. It’s an event that tests not only physical endurance but mental fortitude in ways few can imagine. Meg shar...
Nov 06, 2024•1 hr 22 min•Season 3Ep. 42
This week on HappyCast, Stephanie and Darren welcome Erin MacNabb to discuss her recent finish at the Bear 100, a race renowned for its rugged terrain, stunning autumn scenery, and grueling 22,000-foot climb. Starting in Logan, Utah, and stretching 100 miles north to Fish Haven, Idaho, the Bear 100 tests runners with demanding elevation gains and technical descents through the Wasatch and Bear River Ranges. Known for its breathtaking views of red maples and golden aspens, this race also serves a...
Oct 30, 2024•1 hr 27 min•Season 3Ep. 41
On this episode of the HappyCast, we talk about fear of heights and how we manage racing through it! Not really…but that does come up at the end. For this episode, we are joined by returning guests Gus Rodriguez and Ashley Forshey as they discuss finishing their first 200 mile race: the Cowboy 200 by Ultraverse Supplements! Not only did they just finish this race, they planned from the very start to do the entire thing together! They talk about the logistical concerns, as well as any personal an...
Oct 23, 2024•1 hr 33 min•Season 3Ep. 40
In this episode, we sit down with Simon Guérard , an ultra-runner and filmmaker with an unbroken streak of finishes. Fresh off his impressive runs at the Saddle 100 in Arizona and the Tor des Géants in the Italian Alps, Simon shares his unique approach to ultra-running. Known for his mental toughness, Simon has never experienced a DNF, and in this episode, he reveals some mental strategies and tricks he uses to keep pushing forward, even when the going gets tough. Simon’s commitment to both the ...
Oct 16, 2024•1 hr 19 min•Season 3Ep. 39
In this episode of the HappyCast, we go traverse the Canadian Rockies with Rachel Bambrick in one of the hardest “new” 200 milers in the country: The Divide 200 by Sinister Sports. Rachel talks about preparing for this race, having done Cocodona 250 previously and setting out to do more unsupported efforts. She talks about the difficulty of the now infamous first 50k, and how Mother Nature came in to throw a few wrenches in everyone’s plans. She proclaims it the hardest race she’s ever done, but...
Oct 09, 2024•1 hr 18 min•Season 3Ep. 38
The crew heads towards the Alps for this episode of the HappyCast, with prolific 200 mile runner, Mika Thewes, who is fresh off of completing one of the hardest 200 mile races in the world, Tor des Géants 330. In this episode, Mika talks all things Tor, including the ups, downs, and everything that went sideways (who needs sleep anyways?), and her brush with déjà vu, and more appropriately, déjà vécu. And of course, the DNF forces also pay Mika a visit during her race as well to try to throw a w...
Oct 02, 2024•1 hr 22 min•Season 3Ep. 37
In this special episode of the HappyCast, the hosts sit down with ultra-runner Kenneth Anderlitch to discuss his ambitious 1,700-mile run from Washington D.C. to San Antonio. The run is not just about endurance but also aims to raise awareness and funds for Haven for Hope, a nonprofit dedicated to helping families experiencing homelessness. Kenneth opens up about the physical and mental preparation required for this monumental journey and the personal connection that fuels his commitment to the ...
Sep 25, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 3Ep. 36
In this episode of HappyCast, Stephanie and guest host Ben Bridgeman sit down with Chance Helmick to talk about his incredible journey at the Crazy Mountain 100. This grueling race, set in the breathtaking yet treacherous Crazy Mountains of Montana, is known for its steep climbs, rocky terrain, and stunning alpine views. With over 22,000 feet of elevation gain, it’s one of the most challenging ultras in the U.S. Chance shares his personal experience, discussing both the mental and physical endur...
Sep 18, 2024•1 hr 32 min•Season 3Ep. 35
In this episode of HappyCast, Stephanie takes us through her experience at the Hallucination 100, held during the groovy Run Woodstock festival in Michigan. While the weather and conditions were manageable, this race became a personal challenge that brought valuable lessons for Stephanie as she continues to evolve as an ultra-runner. Set against the backdrop of vibrant festival activities and peaceful trails, the Hallucination 100 takes runners through a 16.6-mile loop that combines serene old-g...
Sep 11, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 3Ep. 34
In this episode of HappyCast, we’re excited to welcome Roberto Gonzalez, who recounts the incredible experience of pacing blind runner Jeff Hardaway to his 100-kilometer finish at the infamous Habanero 100. Known for its scorching heat and brutal sandy terrain, the Habanero 100 is one of the toughest ultra races in Texas. Held in mid-August, the race kicks off at noon, challenging runners to endure soaring temperatures, making every step through the sand an extreme test of endurance and willpowe...
Sep 04, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Season 3Ep. 33
On this week’s episode of the HappyCast, we are joined by returning guest AND recently crowned Bigfoot 200 winner, Jessica Schiller! This was Jessica’s first 200 mile race, and she was up against some stiff competition. This year, Bigfoot 200 had a major reroute last minute after a file broke out near the middle of the course. So instead of the traditional point-to-point 200+ mile course that traverses around the Cascades, folks were challenged with a double out-and-back course that had them do ...
Aug 28, 2024•1 hr 25 min•Season 3Ep. 32
In this lively episode of HappyCast, Stephanie teams up with local runner Peg Donahue and her brother for a deep dive into their recent adventure at the Badger 100 in Wisconsin. The Badger 100, part of the Ten Junk Miles Racing Series, is known for its mix of scenic beauty and relentless challenges, winding through the picturesque trails of the Midwest. With temperatures soaring to 90 degrees for most of race day, the heat added an extra layer of difficulty to an already grueling event. As the d...
Aug 21, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Season 3Ep. 31
In this episode of HappyCast, we delve into the epic journey of this year’s Badwater 135, a race so intense it could be likened to a real-life game of Jumanji. We’re joined by ultra runner Brandy Ray and her entire crew as they recount the trials and tribulations of facing the world’s toughest foot race. Brandy, built for the extreme conditions of this event, shares her meticulous training regimen and mental preparation, which allowed her to endure and excel in the unforgiving heat of Death Vall...
Aug 14, 2024•1 hr 38 min•Season 3Ep. 30
In this episode of HappyCast, we are thrilled to welcome ultra runner Walter Handloser. Fresh off his recent finish at the grueling Summit 200, Walter sits down with us to share his experiences and insights from the inaugural race. Attempting three challenging races in just nine days, Walter covered nearly 400 miles, successfully completing the Ouray 100 and Summit 200 while narrowly timing out at the Creed 100. Join us as Walter provides a thorough critique of each race, highlighting the highs,...
Aug 07, 2024•1 hr 33 min•Season 3Ep. 29
This week on the HappyCast, we sit down with the first EVER finisher of the Mighty Gallatin seven-day stage run, Connor McClelland, fresh off of his flight back home to San Diego, and go in-depth with his experience and everything it took to get him to be the first person ever to finish all seven days. The Mighty Gallatin is a seven-day stage run that takes place in Montana, and is put on by Helgi Olafson. This was the third year of this event, and until now, no one was able to finish. This year...
Jul 31, 2024•1 hr 17 min•Season 3Ep. 28
This week on the HappyCast, the crew ramble on about a variety of topics as they all prepare for a very busy next few weeks. In the first segment, Dylan and Stephanie do a check-in with returning guest favorite, Regina Massingill, as she describes the comedy of errors that ensued during her Muleshoe 60k night race over the weekend. Her new favorite thing just might be racing in the middle of the night without any hydration and only a flashlight guiding her. Her experience helps shed light on how...
Jul 17, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Season 3Ep. 27
In this week's episode of HappyCast, we join local ultrarunner Greg Sisengrath as he reflects on his transformative journey at the Western States 100. Greg, alongside his crew members Jen Kirkpatrick and Kelley Mims, dives into the details of his race experience, discussing how he mastered his state of flow against the rugged backdrop of one of ultrarunning’s most legendary races. He also shares the compelling backstory of his years spent collecting lottery tickets, highlighting the significance...
Jul 10, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Season 3Ep. 26
In the latest heart-stirring episode of HappyCast, join Stephanie as she takes on the formidable Copper Kings 100, an awe-inspiring mountain race crafted by ultra-runner Wes Plate. Set in the picturesque town of Butte, Montana, this race is not for the faint of heart—marked by its "fatass" style, it challenges runners with no aid stations and no course markers, demanding resilience and raw endurance. Central to this episode and the race itself is Butte's towering landmark, Our Lady of the Rockie...
Jul 03, 2024•1 hr 24 min•Season 3Ep. 25
In this thrilling recap episode of HappyCast, we introduce our newest adopted member, Marion Guillemant. Marion connected with Andrew and Stephanie and was crewed and paced by the Happy Endings team, ultimately completing the grueling Tahoe 200 in an impressive 82:29 hours. Listen as Marion shares her incredible story of struggle and perseverance, highlighting the highs and lows of her journey. In the second part of the episode, Andrew recounts his own Tahoe 200 experience. Despite delivering on...
Jun 26, 2024•1 hr 46 min•Season 3Ep. 24
In this electrifying episode of HappyCast, we dive deep into the heart of Texas to explore the grueling yet exhilarating local fatass race known as Achilles’ Hill. Join us as race directors Ben and Liz Bridgeman recount the race's evolution over the past five years, transforming it into a true test of endurance and spirit. Battling the blistering summer heat to navigating the trail and road, runners are pushed to their absolute limits in this unforgiving environment. Achille's Hill isn't just ab...
Jun 19, 2024•1 hr 45 min•Season 3Ep. 23
In this exhilarating episode of HappyCast, join us as we venture into the heart of Ohio for the iconic Mohican Trail 100. Known as one of the original 100-mile races in the United States, this trail offers more than just a run; it's an enchanting journey through forests that whisper tales of endurance and spirit. Stephanie and Moe share their unique experiences—the mystical sights hidden in the first loop's enchanted woods, and the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies such a formidable chall...
Jun 12, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Season 3Ep. 22
Join us this week on HappyCast as Dylan sits down with Andrew Marvin and Matt Leake to discuss their upcoming challenge at the Tahoe 200. In this special race prep episode, we delve into the detailed strategies and preparations essential for tackling one of the most demanding races in the trail running world. Andrew and Matt share their insights on everything from travel logistics and gear essentials to their mental and nutritional strategies for enduring the 200 mile out and back around Lake Ta...
Jun 05, 2024•54 min•Season 3Ep. 21
This week on the HappyCast, we venture down to a place in Georgia that not even the devil would go: The Chattahoochee National Forest for the 2024 edition of Cruel Jewel 100. Considered one of the hardest 100 mile foot races in the country, with over 30k feet of climbing and a 48 hour cutoff, and a buckle that is the size of a small child’s head, Cruel Jewel attracts some of the bravest (and craziest) runners from around the world. As the organization running the race, DUMASS events, likes to pr...
May 29, 2024•1 hr 19 min•Season 3Ep. 20
Join us on a riveting HappyCast episode as Stephanie sits down with trailblazer Mercedes Avery to delve into the nuances of mental health and the journey to the starting line of life's races. In this heartfelt conversation, they explore the challenges and triumphs of preparing mentally and physically for endurance sports and life’s unpredictable moments. Mercedes shares her insights on the importance of mental resilience and how she has learned to adapt and thrive when plans fall apart. This epi...
May 22, 2024•1 hr 20 min•Season 3Ep. 19
This week on an exciting HappyCast, we sit down with co-host Andrew as he goes over his experience being a part of the most competitive and exciting 200 mile event yet: the 2024 edition of the Cocodona 250! After racing it last year, Andrew goes over his time crewing and pacing, and how the different perspective made him appreciate the race even more. He also talks about the logistics of crewing and pacing this race, and how it is just as fun to support this race as it is to actually run it. And...
May 15, 2024•1 hr 24 min•Season 3Ep. 18
This week on HappyCast, we’re taking a moment to catch up with our intrepid hosts, each on a unique journey through the world of trail running and crewing. Dylan is gearing up for a refreshing vacation, stepping away from the rigorous training and races to recharge. Meanwhile, Andrew is embarking on an exciting venture in Arizona, where he’s crewing for our good friend and podcast supporter, Jason Hanley at the Cocodona 250. Andrew talks about the rest of the. Stephanie, not one to rest, is mana...
May 08, 2024•27 min•Season 3Ep. 17
Join us for a lively and laughter-filled episode of Happy Cast as we recount the highs and lows of the Captain Mountain 34 Hour Race. Stephanie, alongside guests Moe Villanueva and Shashi Reddy, delve into their experiences tackling this daunting endurance race that pushes runners to their limits and beyond. The episode kicks off with an exploration of the race’s unique setting in the Capitan Mountains, where runners face a continuous 4-mile loop filled with natural beauty and unyielding challen...
May 01, 2024•1 hr 13 min•Season 3Ep. 16
Join us on this episode of the HappyCast as we venture to one of the most beautiful places in America, Zion National Park, as we talk about the Zion 100 Ultra Marathon by Vacation races! For this episode, Andrew sits down in the guest chair and is joined by Jessica Schiller as they both detail their experience running the 100 miler. We gain insight and perspective regarding the race itself, as well as the different mindsets going into the race. We hear about their overall thoughts on the race as...
Apr 24, 2024•1 hr 31 min•Season 3Ep. 15
In this deeply moving episode of Happy Cast, we welcome Rosie Gagnon, an ultra-marathon runner with a mission that goes far beyond physical endurance. Rosie has set herself the extraordinary challenge of completing 100 100-mile races, a goal inspired by the tragic loss of her son, a Marine veteran who struggled with mental health issues after his service and ultimately took his own life. Through her running, Rosie aims to honor her son's memory and raise crucial awareness about the mental health...
Apr 17, 2024•1 hr 17 min•Season 3Ep. 14
In this gripping episode of the Happy Cast, we sit down with ultrarunner Dena Carr, whose recent endeavor at the Barkley Marathons has captivated the hearts of many. Known as the race "that eats its young," the Barkley Marathons is not for the faint of heart, pushing the limits of human endurance, resilience, and spirit. Dena shares her journey from the call of the conch shell to the final, grueling miles, revealing the preparation, challenges, and unexpected lessons learned along the way. From ...
Apr 10, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Season 3Ep. 13
