Best Vert Run Podcasts (2025)

1
256. High Carb Domination, Steep Races and Vert, Heat Suit Guidelines, Increasing Stride Power, and Kilian’s Western States Prep! 1:33:47

1d ago1:33:47

1:33:47

We put on our space cowboy outfits for this great episode! The main topic centered on the almost-ubiquitous use of higher carb intakes in recent races, from the Canyons 100k to the Boston Marathon to the cycling classics. What once seemed optional is now mandatory. Where do the next breakthroughs come from? We outline some ideas to try to catch the…

1
Fail Fast: Ultrarunning & Problem-Solving 44:26

11h ago44:26

44:26

Ultrarunning teaches us how to adapt, stay calm in chaos, and turn failure into fuel. In this episode, Loretta and Lindsay share real race stories, quick-thinking strategies, and how to carry lessons from the trail into everyday life. Whether you're chasing a finish line or navigating challenges off the trail, this one's for you. Listen now to embr…

1
‘Where Did (and Does) the Livestream Go?’, with Jeff Pelletier

4d ago

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This weekend is a massive weekend of trail racing with several high profile events all over the world. The Canyons Endurance Runs by UTMB is happening in Auburn, California, and unlike last year, there’s no livestream. I sit down with Jeff Pelletier, king of trail storytelling to discuss the history and the challenges for current version of livestr…

1
330: ‘Where Did (and Does) the Livestream Go?’, with Jeff Pelletier 56:44

4d ago56:44

56:44

This weekend is a massive weekend of trail racing with several high profile events all over the world. The Canyons Endurance Runs by UTMB is happening in Auburn, California, and unlike last year, there’s no livestream. I sit down with Jeff Pelletier, king of trail storytelling to discuss the history and the challenges for current version of livestr…

1
168. Rod Farvard | Every dog has its day. Reflections, hopes and expectations ahead of the 2025 Canyons 100k 1:07:12

7d ago1:07:12

1:07:12

I had the pleasure and privilege to share three weeks of altitude training in Mammoth Lakes with Rod, seeing his hard work, commitment and self believe, learning a lot from him. It’s been roughly a year since Rod Farvard's name really came into the spotlight. Rod definitely had a breakthrough season in 2024, with the win at Canyons and the second p…

1
255. The Shocking Shoe Study That Changes Everything, Boston Marathon Reactions, Creatine for Endurance, and Resting Heart Rate! 1:43:46

8d ago1:43:46

1:43:46

Our minds were blown by the Boston Marathon right before recording this great episode! The main topic was a new study on the Puma R3 super-shoe, conducted by a top researcher. It showed a shocking 3% improvement in running economy relative to the previous generation of super-shoes, with a universally positive response among study participants. We d…

1
Trail Runner University - Training Plans Unpacked Speed - Vert Couch to 5k and mileage challenge 13:05

11d ago13:05

13:05

In this episode of *The Dirt Podcast*, Coaches Loretta and Lindsay explore essential training programs tailored for Trail Runner University. Whether you’re aiming to improve your speed, conquer vertical climbs, or embark on your first 5K, this episode has something for everyone. We’ll break down: **Speed Development**: Discover our 10-week program …

1
254. How Heat Training is Changing the Game, Protein Needs for Endurance, VO2 Max Numbers, Workout Success v. "Failure," and What Comes After Disaster! 1:40:10

15d ago1:40:10

1:40:10

We put sensors in all the right places before this HOT episode! The main discussion was on the emerging science of heat training, centered around a 2025 study that showed 3 x weekly sessions could sustain hematological adaptations from an altitude camp. Heat training is no longer just about being ready for hot weather. It's about helping our blood …

1
Mid to Back Pack: Embracing the Journey of Every Runner 46:53

18d ago46:53

46:53

In this episode of **The Dirt**, Coaches Loretta and Lindsay dive into the unique journey of mid to back of the pack runners. They explore the challenges faced during training, from pacing to mental hurdles, and share practical tips to enhance your running experience. What You'll Learn: - **Understanding Your Journey**: Discover the common obstacle…

1
167. The Biggest Races to Watch in 2025: What’s Coming in Trail Running 1:02:38

21d ago1:02:38

1:02:38

What’s Coming in Trail Running in 2025? Clearly, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for trail running. In this episode we examine the key races and their storylines, athletes to watch, new trends and predictions, strategies and advancements in performance. Guest: Max Keith For those of you who want to give training with Vert.run a try, you c…

1
253. New Science on Protein Needs, Unbreakable 2, VO2 Max Estimates, Carb Loads, Torpedo Bats, and Cross Training Intensity! 1:38:45

22d ago1:38:45

1:38:45

We put on our finest white spandex for this amazing episode! The main topic was a new review study on protein needs for endurance athletes. The authors used a cool method of isotope labeling to argue that endurance athletes need more protein than traditional recommendations. The nutrition revolution is not just about carbs! And this one was full of…

1
Running Stronger with Age Tips for Longevity in the Sport 51:35

26d ago51:35

51:35

In this episode of "The Dirt," hosts Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay dive into the critical topic of aging athletes. Join us as we explore the physiological changes that come with age, effective injury prevention strategies, and the importance of nutrition for maintaining performance. We’ll also discuss how to adjust your training to accommodate th…

1
252. How Running May Impact The Brain, Plus Q+A on Body Image, Heat Suits, Sweat Testing, and Nose Breathing! 1:28:32

29d ago1:28:32

1:28:32

We pondered the genetics of smelling ants before this great episode! The main topic was a new study that found the brain may use myelin lipids for fuel during low glucose conditions like marathons. This could have massive implications for how we think about fueling and fatigue resistance, including for cognitive function. Our big theory: fueling is…

1
DNF Growth Recovery Mindset 55:50

1M ago55:50

55:50

Join hosts Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay on The Dirt Coaches Edition as we explore the DNF (Do Not Finish) recovery mindset. Discover how to process your feelings and grief, tackle common DNF reasons and implement effective strategies moving forward. *In this episode you'll learn: *How to embrace a growth mindset *Practical do's for training, fue…

1
166. Florian Reiter | Running is for everyone. Reasons why we run, vulnerability and comparison, growth and success 1:16:17

1M ago1:16:17

1:16:17

Florian Reiter is a runner, coach, podcaster and physiotherapist from Austria. I was a guest in Florian’s podcast Running Free and it was a great chance to touch on many relevant topics related to running, so we thought it would be fun to do a follow-up episode, and here we are. We talked about the reasons why we run, how these reasons change over …

1
251. Big Alta 50k and The Story Athletes Rarely Tell, Plus Q+A on Kilian to Western States, Bike v. Treadmill, and Sauna v. Hot Tub! 1:43:11

1M ago1:43:11

1:43:11

We took off our armor for this incredible episode! The main discussion might have been one of our most important (and fun) ever: the Big Alta 50k DNF, failure, and what it truly means to go for it. David raced Big Alta because it was somewhere that he couldn't hide. We needed to gather data about what happened at the very edge of human capabilities…

1
250. The Mystery of Fatigue Resistance, Race Week Feelings, Episode 250 Reflections, Outside Mag Revolt, and Fun Sponsorship News! 1:24:44

1M ago1:24:44

1:24:44

We celebrated the 250th recording for this great episode! The main topic was a new study on fatigue resistance. How do you actually improve performance after multiple hours of work? It’s the greatest mystery of endurance, and whoever solves it will have a big advantage. We think that we have some answers for training, fueling, and the nervous syste…

1
165. Josh Wade | Transgrancanaria Classic podium finish, strategy and preparation 57:42

2M ago57:42

57:42

Josh Wade is a professional trail runner for The North Face coming from England. Josh took third at the Transgrancanaria Classic this year, running an incredible race and surpassing all his expectations. In this episode we go into the details of Josh’s race, from how he managed his strategy to how he handled the preparation leading up to it. We als…

1
249. Heavy Lifting and Fatigue Resistance, Carbs After Exercise, Cramp Prevention, Cadence, and Health in Training! 1:42:50

2M ago1:42:50

1:42:50

We lifted some styrofoam plates painted like metal before this great episode! The main topic was a new study showing improved fatigue resistance for athletes doing heavy lifting twice per week. Yes... we regret to inform you that we think you should probably have a squat rack nearby. Prepare your butts. We also answered a question on carb intake af…

1
248. Zone 2 and Why It Matters, Heat Training Questions, Pre-Workout Carbs, and Trail Supershoe Follow-Up! 1:34:46

2M ago1:34:46

1:34:46

We brought some very sore legs into this great episode! The main topic was a new study on "Zone 2 Training," which gathered a panel of experts to review what Zone 2 means and why it matters. Our theory is that Zone 2 training is interacting with high-carb fueling to drive some of the performance revolution! We also talked about a new study on heat …

1
‘Through the Lows to the Highs’, with Michael Eaton

2M ago

—

Michael Eaton, Brooks Trailhead store manager and host of the Trail Running Film Festival in Seattle joins Singletrack to share his person running journey from running cross country in his youth back in Kentucky to this year’s training block for OCC in Chamonix. We chat about the challenges of life, the highs and lows that come with that, and the p…

1
329: ‘Through the Lows to the Highs’, with Michael Eaton 56:20

2M ago56:20

56:20

Michael Eaton, Brooks Trailhead store manager and host of the Trail Running Film Festival in Seattle joins me to share his person running journey from cross country in his youth back in Kentucky to this year’s training block for OCC in Chamonix. We chat about the challenges of life, the highs and lows that come with that, and the peace that can be …

1
164 | Personal updates, racing plans and what we're looking forward to ahead of the 2025 season - with Max Keith 56:41

2M ago56:41

56:41

Today I’m sitting down with Max Keith to share some reflections as we approach the core of the 2025 season, which kicked off in big fashion with races like Black Canyon, Tarawera and Transgrancanaria. Athletes are racing as fast as ever, races are getting more competitive, brands are investing more and more, participation in trail races is increasi…

1
247. High-Carb and Health, Trail Supershoe Study, Racing Frequency, Pros and Cons of Stretching, and Building Toughness! 1:40:18

2M ago1:40:18

1:40:18

We put on some supershoes for an extra boost for this great episode! A main topic was a question we get a lot: whether high-carb fueling during training is healthy in a broader sense. We not only think it's healthy, we think that the question is best asked another way: how much healthier is fueling your training than the alternative of underfueling…

1
‘Beast Joins the Vert Running Series’, with Scott Sowle

2M ago

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Exciting announcement incoming! Rock Candy Running’s Beast of Big Creek joins the Vert Running Series for the 2025 season. Scott Sowle is on the show to share the news and give us the details. Let the racing season in the PNW begin! Links Beast of Big Creek Vert Running Series Scott Sowle on Singletrack…

1
328: ‘Beast Joins the Vert Running Series’, with Scott Sowle 46:39

2M ago46:39

46:39

Exciting announcement incoming! Rock Candy Running’s Beast of Big Creek joins the Vert Running Series for the 2025 season. Scott Sowle is on the show to share the news and give us the details. Let the racing season in the PNW kick off! LINKS Beast of Big Creek Vert Running Series Scott Sowle on Singletrack Connect with Singletrack on: Singletrack.f…

1
246. “No Secrets” Q+A on World Records, Kilian’s Fasted Workout, Health v. Performance, Wild Probiotics Studies, Applying Heart Rate Zones, Zone 2, and More! 1:35:16

2M ago1:35:16

1:35:16

We bought stock in baking soda before this record-breaking episode! It was a "No Secrets" Q+A, where we lay it all on the line. This one was so fun! The first big question was on the deluge of world records set in the last week. Our theory is that compound gains are being harnessed from nutrition, supplements, and shoes that are changing how athlet…

1
‘We’re Just Outsiders’, with Alex Bond

3M ago

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Friend of the show Alex Bond is back and we’re chatting about the fate of Outside. The company formerly known as America’s best outdoor magazine and now just a shell of itself with lots and lots of tech under the hood. The news about the latest rounds of layoffs paired with the news they are buying another technology provider puzzles us and Alex an…

1
327: 'We're Just Outsiders', with Alex Bond 1:01:59

3M ago1:01:59

1:01:59

Friend of the show Alex Bond is back and we’re chatting about the fate of Outside. The company formerly known as America’s best outdoor magazine and now just a shell of itself with lots and lots of tech under the hood. The news about the latest rounds of layoffs paired with the news they are buying another technology provider puzzles us and Alex an…

1
163. Dakota Jones | Running for climate action: Dakota's 100mile American record attempt raising money for Footprints Running 1:00:39

3M ago1:00:39

1:00:39

Dakota Jones is a professional trail runner for Nnormal living in Salt Lake City. Dakota is also the founder and executive director ofFootprints Running, a non profit organization with the mission to support climate action at the community level by bringing people together around their shared interest in trail running. In two days, Dakota is attemp…

1
245. Why No Record is Safe, Strength Training Science, Plus Q+A on Electrolytes, Realism v. Optimism, Mental Toughness, and More! 1:39:45

3M ago1:39:45

1:39:45

Our minds were blown this weekend as more records were annihilated on the trails (at the Black Canyon 100k) and the track (at the Millrose Games)! We talk about The Performance Revolution: what's causing it, what we all can learn, and what comes next. The future is here. And the future is wildly fast! Next up was a new study on strength training fo…

1
‘The Race That Has No End’, with Sam Harvey and Harvey Lewis

3M ago

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This special episode was made possible through the amazing support from Tailwind Nutrition. Maggie Guterl is back as Singletrack co-host on this second episode of a two-part series dedicated to the wonderful, crazy, and often endlessly long world of Backyard Ultras. This week we chat with Sam Harvey and Harvey Lewis. We take a deeper look at the mo…

1
326: ‘The Race That Has No End’, with Sam Harvey and Harvey Lewis 59:06

3M ago59:06

59:06

This special episode was made possible through the amazing support from Tailwind Nutrition. Maggie Guterl is back as Singletrack co-host on this second episode of a two-part series dedicated to the wonderful, crazy, and often endlessly long world of Backyard Ultras. This week we chat with Sam Harvey and Harvey Lewis. We take a deeper look at the mo…

1
244. Why Pressure is Good, The Strange Science of Downhills, Plus Q+A on Ketones, Strides, Weekly Mileage, Anxiety, Going All-In, and More! 1:37:39

3M ago1:37:39

1:37:39

We embraced the pressure for 2025 before recording this great episode! A concept we disagree with is that "pressure will break down the mind," referring to saying big, scary goals out loud. Our main idea: pressure is a joyful part of sports. We talk about our long journey to get to this point, and why you should want the ball with time running out,…

1
‘Believe in What’s Possible’, with Fiona Hayvice and Courtney Dauwalter

3M ago

—

This special episode was made possible through the amazing support from Tailwind Nutrition. Maggie Guterl joins Singletrack as co-host on this first episode of a very special two-part series dedicated to the wonderful, crazy, and often endlessly long world of Backyard Ultras. We bring two champions of the sport, Courtney Dauwalter and Fiona Hayvice…

1
162. Allison Lynch | Running, performance, athletes and influencers: navigating brand marketing in an evolving landscape 1:08:42

3M ago1:08:42

1:08:42

Allison Lynch is a writer, artist, competitive runner and sports marketing professional. Allison has 12 years of experience in brand marketing and communications, specializing in sports technology, running, and fitness. She’s worked for companies like WHOOP and COROS. I was inspired to invite Allison on this podcast after discovering her work and t…

1
325: ‘Believe in What’s Possible’, with Fiona Hayvice and Courtney Dauwalter 1:01:29

3M ago1:01:29

1:01:29

This special episode was made possible through the amazing support from Tailwind Nutrition. Maggie Guterl joins Singletrack as co-host on this first episode of a very special two-part series dedicated to the wonderful, crazy, and often endlessly long world of Backyard Ultras. We bring two champions of the sport, Courtney Dauwalter and Fiona Hayvice…

1
243. “No Secrets” Q+A on VO2 Max, Very Hard Workouts, Fueling Easy Days, Iron Levels, Confidence, Genetics, and More! 1:37:03

3M ago1:37:03

1:37:03

This episode is one of our all-time favorites, diving into tons of the most important (and most frivolous) topics! As always, it’s in the “no secrets” style, where we lift the curtain and show you what people are thinking at the top end of endurance sports, but might not want to say publicly. Plus, there were so many laughs mixed with serious momen…

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