Advertise on podcast: The Midpacker Podcast

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings SubStack⁠ ⁠Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠ Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching?  Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH    HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE - 10% off your order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “Sometimes it’s not about the finish line. It’s about finding joy in the messy middle.” On this episode of the MidPacker Pod, Troy sits down with trail runner, race director, registered dietitian, and mom: Kayla Fitzgerald for a deep, fun, and relatable conversation about how she juggles it all while still chasing big goals in the ultra world. Kayla shares her shift from road racing to trail running after realizing the road scene just didn’t vibe with her. What she found on the trails was community, connection, and a whole new way to push herself. From leading group runs to organizing local races under her brand Palmetto Ultras, Kayla has become a cornerstone of her local running community in South Carolina. We dive into: Balancing parenting, coaching, and 200-mile race training Her experience as a registered dietitian and helping runners dial in their race-day nutrition Upcoming races like Southern States 200, Barkley Fall Classic, and a possible go at Barn Creek Backyard Ultra Her story of pushing through the Beast of the East 50 Miler—with Troy jumping in as an impromptu pacer! Whether you’re a trail veteran or just dipping your toes into the dirt, Kayla’s perspective on doing what you love while doing life is refreshing and real. Athlete Spotlight: Kayla Fitzgerald Registered Dietitian, Nutrition coach, and mom Race director and founder of Palmetto Ultras Focused on inclusive, sustainable community building through trail events Training for Southern States 200 and the Barkley Fall Classic Advocate for fueling smarter and training with joy Kayla's Links IG: @palmetto.ultras Website: Palmettoultras.com Nutrition Coaching Site: Endurance-Nutritionist.com Relevant Links Southern States 200 Barkley Fall Classic Barn Creek Backyard Ultra Beast of the East 50 Miler Partner Links:  Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription ⁠ Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase.  Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. ⁠Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Kayla Fitzgerald, trail running, ultrarunning, Barkley Fall Classic, Southern States 200, Barn Creek Backyard Ultra, Beast of the East, race director, Palmetto Ultras, nutrition for runners, mom runner, balancing life and running, Freetrail, MidPacker Pod

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings SubStack⁠ ⁠Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠ Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching?  Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH   HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE - 10% off your order TRAINING PEAKS - 20% off a premium annual subscription USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “It’s not weakness to rest. It’s part of the long game.” In the very first edition of MidPacker Field Notes, host Troy Meadows pulls back the curtain on his early 2026 training season, offering a raw, honest check-in on life, recovery, and what's ahead. Coming off a tough bout of sickness in January, Troy talks about the importance of intentional rest, easing back into structured training, and setting the tone for the Hellbender 100. Listeners get a peek into Troy's latest training block, complete with hill repeats, tempo intervals, and long endurance sessions, along with shoutouts to athletes in the MidPacker coaching community and updates on his race calendar. This is a solo episode with real talk, actionable insights, and a strong reminder: rest is part of the work. Training Highlights & Takeaways Took a full week off due to illness—highlighting the value of rest as training Wrapped a 6–7 week VO2 max block featuring uphill intervals and tempo work Kicking off a new 14-week build toward Hellbender 100, with a heavy focus on tempo Planning back-to-back races: Hellbender followed by Laurel Highlands 70.5 Integrating TrainingPeaks to plan and forecast fatigue, fitness, and load management Dialing in race nutrition using Hyperlyte Liquid Performance: Half strength (50g carbs / 500mg sodium) for endurance runs Full strength (100g carbs / 1000mg sodium) for quality workouts Community Shoutouts Samantha crushed her first 50K, on the very trail that sidelined her a year ago Paul completed his first 50-miler in Tucson and is training for Sedona Canyons 125 Troy’s Links IG - @troyontherun Troy’s Ultra Coaching Page Find me on Strava Follow the Show IG - @midpackerpod Relevant Links Hellbender 100 Laurel Highlands Ultra Sedona Canyons 125 Barkley Fall Classic Looking Glass 100k Partner Links:  Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 20% off an Annual Premium Subscription ⁠Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase.  Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. ⁠Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. VO2 max, Hellbender 100, Laurel Highlands Ultra, TrainingPeaks, Hyperlyte, solo episode, ultrarunning, rest and recovery, tempo block, uphill intervals, Sedona Canyons 125, coaching, winter training, endurance, community shoutouts, pacing, fueling, running mindset

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings SubStack⁠ ⁠ Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠ Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching?  Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH   JANJI HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE BEAR BUTT WIPES USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “The spirit of this community is fantastic—and none of these friendships would exist without trail running.” — MVD It’s the final episode of Trailing Indicators for 2025, and Troy is closing out the year with a festive check-in from Corinne Shalvoy (reporting live from snowy Ouray, Colorado) and Matt Van Dalsem (holding it down in Marin). In classic TI fashion, the crew reflects on what went right—and wrong—this year, both on and off the trail. In this episode: Year-end gratitude and reflections on health, family, and the trail community. Race season recaps including Corinne’s stacked calendar, Matt’s one-and-done Big Alta, and Troy’s ultra endurance (and stomach) lessons. Honest talk about DNFs, mental fatigue, and the pressures of racing with intention. 2026 race plans: Corinne: Black Canyon100k, UTMB  Troy: Hellbender 100, Laurel Highlands, & Barkley Fall Classic (maybe). MVD: Big Alta 100K Lessons in balance: parenting, aging, professional pivots, and pacing the long game. Corinne’s Links @corinne_shalvoyage Corinnes’s Coaching Page Shalvoy Running - YouTube Channel Women Can Site Troy’s Links @troyontherun Troyontherun.com Troy’s Ultra Coaching Page MVD Links @mvd_trailrunner Relevant Links UTMB Mont Blanc Hellbender 100 Black Canyon Ultras Javelina Jundred Gorge Waterfalls 100K Silverton Alpine 50K Behind the Rocks Ultra Boulder Boulder 10K Laurel Highlands Ultra Big Alta 100K Barkley Fall Classic Partner Links: Janji - Janji.com A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option.  Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. ⁠Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase.  Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. ⁠Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. MidPacker Pod, Trailing Indicators, trail running podcast, running community, Freetrail podcast, Troy Meadows podcast, Corinne Shalvoy, Matt Van Dalsem, MVD, Troy Meadows, UTMB 2026, Black Canyon Ultras, Hellbender 100, Big Alta 100K, Silverton Alpine 50K, Behind the Rocks Ultra, Javelina Jundred, Boulder Boulder 10K, Laurel Highlands Ultra, Barkley Fall Classic, Gorge Waterfalls 100K, Dark Divide 50K, ultra marathon training, race season reflections, DNF recovery, long distance running, mental resilience in ultras, training for 100 milers

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings SubStack⁠ ⁠Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠ Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching?  Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH   JANJI HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE BEAR BUTT WIPES USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “Running used to be about control — now it's about connection” In this raw and insightful episode of the MidPacker Pod, Troy sits down with Angie Lake — trail runner, outdoor industry creative, and writer behind Blood, Sweat, and Fear on Substack. Angie’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and learning to reconnect with joy through movement. Far from chasing perfection, Angie’s journey is about reclaiming space, in the outdoors, in storytelling, and in herself. In this episode, she opens up about: Growing up a natural athlete, running barefoot sprints as a kid at karate class Witnessing the Boston Marathon bombing in 2013 and the long road to reconnecting with running afterward The life-altering experience of surviving an ectopic pregnancy — and learning to listen to her body in new ways Why she’s no longer chasing PRs or podiums — and how she finds purpose and power in the “midpack” Her creative and community work with The Cairn Project and Wild Women Trail Runs Writing as a tool for self-expression, healing, and resistance Angie reminds us that joy is enough. Speed isn’t required. And you don’t have to fit into someone else’s mold to be a “real runner.” Subscribe to Angie’s Substack: Blood, Sweat, and Fear Angies Links Angie on LinkedIn Angie’s Substack: Blood, Sweat, & Fear Wild Women Trail Runs The Cairn Project The Cycle Syncing Handbook Other Links Troy’s Home Made Natural Gels  Taking Charge of Your Fertility Partner Links: Janji - Janji.com A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option.  Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. ⁠Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase.  Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. ⁠Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Angie Lake, trail running, Boston Marathon bombing, ectopic pregnancy, healing through running, outdoor storytelling, Blood Sweat and Fear, Substack, Wild Women Trail Runs, The Cairn Project, body awareness, slowing down, midpack mindset, running community, outdoor industry, running and identity

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings SubStack⁠ ⁠ Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠ Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching?  Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH   JANJI HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE BEAR BUTT WIPES USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ "Sometimes you just do something that feels dumb, and then later you're like, ‘That actually kind of ruled." In this episode of the MidPacker Pod, Troy is joined by Miranda Williamson—trail runner and co-host of the Running with Problems podcast. Miranda shares her grounded, often hilarious journey into trail and ultra-running, one that started with a birthday 10K and evolved into crewing Barkley, pacing Dark Divide, and accidentally negative-splitting her first 100-miler at High Lonesome. From running her first trail race in road shoes from TJ Maxx to completing the San Juan Solstice 50-miler twice, Miranda brings self-awareness and good vibes to the trail scene. She unpacks her experience on the Hardrock 100 course during “Soft Rock,” discusses the emotional chaos of crewing Barkley, and opens up about the vulnerable, sometimes risky conversations she and co-host John Eisen tackle on their podcast, Running with Problems. Miranda’s Links IG - @peaksandjustice Running with Problems Podcast  In This Episode: Miranda’s first trail race with zero prep or gear Her back-to-back finishes at San Juan Solstice Accidentally negative-splitting her first 100-miler (High Lonesome!) Crewing her husband Jon at Barkley  Starting Running with Problems and making space for real talk Building a community of women that love to do hard things   Relevant Links: San Juan Solstice 50 Soft Rock (Hardrock Route) High Lonesome 100 Dark Divide 100miler Barkley Marathons Partner Links: Janji - Janji.com A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option.  Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. ⁠Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase.  Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. ⁠Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Miranda Williamson, Running with Problems, High Lonesome 100, San Juan Solstice, Soft Rock, Har Rock, Barkley Marathons, trail running, crewing, pacing, Dark Divide, ultrarunning, running podcast, midpack

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings ⁠Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠ Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching?  Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH   JANJI HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE BEAR BUTT WIPES USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “Running is more than a race. It’s art, memory, and freedom.” On this episode Troy Meadows sits down with Malcolm Pascotti, founder of Can’t Buy Cool Studios. Malcolm’s journey is one of quiet evolution. He started as a road runner, lots of miles in high school and beyond, but during the pandemic, while living in San Francisco, he began exploring trails in the Marin Headlands and hills around Pacifica. That slow, natural shift eventually led him into mountain running and “DIY ultras” solo, self‑supported runs of 30–40 miles, all on his own terms. What makes Malcolm stand out isn’t just distance or pace, but the way he mixes movement with creativity. Outside of running, he climbs, skis, scrambles, shoots photography (both professionally and for fun), writes poems and musings. He calls it living. He also quietly gives back to the community: providing gear and support to fellow runners, like when he ran a T-shirt sale to help fund race entries for another runner,  proof that support doesn’t always need spotlight. Malcolm is quietly building Can’t Buy Cool Studios, weaving together art, running, identity, and community. Motivational Highlights Embrace adventure on your own terms — solo ultras don’t have to be for trophies, they can be for the soul. Running can be part of a creative life — movement, art, writing, identity — all deeply connected. Quiet generosity matters: supporting others in small ways helps build a stronger, more inclusive community. Balance is messy but possible: holding down a full-time job, a creative process, and still getting out for the run. Links & Resources IG: @cantbuycoolstudios Website: https://cantbuycoolstudios.com/ Partner Links: Janji - Janji.com A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option.  Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. ⁠Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase.  Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. ⁠ Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. trail running, DIY ultra, solo ultra, creativity, running life balance, community support, running brand, outdoor adventure, Puerto Vallarta UTMB, Can’t Buy Cool Studios

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings SubStack⁠ ⁠Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠ Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching?  Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH   JANJI HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE BEAR BUTT WIPES USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS⁠ BLACK FRIDAY SALE 25% off Premium!!!! Use CYBER25 at Checkout using the link below start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker “Running became my way to process grief, build community, and explore the edges of what’s possible.” In this episode, Jon Eisen joins Troy Meadows to unpack a journey that goes far beyond miles. Jon’s career in tech didn’t prepare him for the kind of grit and self‑discovery he found on the trails, especially when he set his sights on the infamous Barkley Marathons. On the way he picked up ultra finishes at events like Niwot’s Challenge and the Yucca Bar Massacre, embraced navigation‑heavy racing, and turned running into a tool for resilience and community. Highlights: How Jon went from programming to pursing ultra adventures—with little thought for convention. What draws him to Barkley‑style races: the unknown, the navigational challenge, the refusal to accept a “normal” race. Key training takeaways: establishing strength, avoiding injury through smart prep, embracing weekly yoga and strength work (yes, even for ultra runners). Motivational nuggets: How showing up matters more than finishing; how joy in running can exist alongside the grind; why community and purpose matter just as much as pace. Practical tips: For runners looking to level up in 2025—whether you’re chasing 50 miles or chasing meaning—you’ll hear what made the difference for Jon. Jon’s  links: IG: @mildly_athletic IG: @runningwithproblems “Running With Problems” podcast info Jon’s race archive & blog Jon’s Barkley 2023 race report Barkley Marathons background info Partner Links: Janji - Janji.com A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option.  Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. ⁠ Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase.  Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. ⁠Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. ultrarunning, Barkley Marathons, Niwot’s Challenge, San Diego 100, navigation race, trail running, strength training, injury prevention, community running, “running with problems”, perseverance

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings SubStack⁠ ⁠ Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠ Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching?  Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH   JANJI HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE BEAR BUTT WIPES USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS⁠ BLACK FRIDAY SALE 25% off Premium!!!! Use CYBER25 at checkout using the link below https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “I am currently not a trail runner, but have found deep belonging within the community.” In this episode, we bring on Erica Rupp—a woman who didn’t pick up trail shoes, but found her place in the ultra community anyway. Her story flips the usual “runner interview” on its head, and it’s rich in meaning. Guest journey & highlights Erica is married to a race‑director, which opened her door into the world of trail and ultra running from a different vantage point—supporting, creating, building instead of racing. On her 42‑acre farm in North Carolina (nestled between Asheville and Charlotte), she homesteads, grows endangered medicinal plants, sews sustainable slow‑fashion pieces, and dives deep into frameworks of wilderness, microbiome, community and true belonging. Her family’s race event, the Hollis Hills Farm Revival (50 km, 25 k, 5 mile) is part trail run, part community fest, part land‑revival project. She speaks to how the ultra world (sometimes stereotyped as hyper‑competitive) can actually be profoundly welcoming to non‑runners, volunteers, supporters—the “behind the scenes” humans. Motivational takeaways: You don’t need to be the person crossing the finish line to belong here. Contribution isn’t always measured in miles. Sustainability, craft, community resilience—these are trail values too. Links IG: @hallowedspringarts  FB: hallowedspringarts Erica’s website: https://www.hallowedspringarts.com/ Key products from the show Lion Heart  Adaptive Energy Xtra Strong Muscle Salve Hollis Hills Farm Revival registration/info LinkedIn profile for Erica Partner Links: Janji - Janji.com A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option.  Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. ⁠ Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase.  Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. ⁠Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. trail running, ultra community, race director spouse, non‑runner involvement, sustainability, wilderness, community, slow fashion, natural fibers, homesteading, Hollis Hills Farm Revival, inclusion in running

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings SubStack⁠ ⁠ Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠ Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching?  Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH   JANJI HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE BEAR BUTT WIPES USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “Failure means you found your edge—that’s where you learn.” In this episode, Troy sits down with the one and only Gary Cantrell, better known to the trail world as Lazarus Lake. From humble beginnings in Tennessee to building the most notorious events in ultrarunning, Laz has done more than just push limits—he’s redefined them. What you’ll hear in this episode: How Laz went from a casual runner to the creator of iconic ultras like the Barkley Marathons and Big’s Backyard Ultra. The origin story of Barkley and the infamous map, highlighters, and those cryptic course notes. Why he believes failure is a feature—not a flaw—of a well-designed race. Thoughts on what makes someone endure, when everyone else taps out. His philosophy on community, suffering, and why the human spirit shines brightest in darkness. The ethos behind races that break you down, only to build you back stronger. Whether you’re a back-of-the-pack grinder or chasing podiums, Laz’s words will hit home. His belief that every runner has untapped reserves of toughness is as brutal as it is uplifting. Relevant Links: The Barkley Marathons – Official Site Big’s Backyard Ultra Frozen Head State Park (Barkley’s Home) The Endurance Artist – Book on Lazarus Lake Partner Links: Janji - Janji.comA big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option.  Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. ⁠ Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: MIDPACKER to double the donation from your purchase.  Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. ⁠ Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. ultrarunning, Barkley Marathons, Big’s Backyard Ultra, Lazarus Lake, Gary Cantrell, endurance, trail running, failure, mental toughness, race design, Tennessee, Frozen Head, grit, perseverance

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings SubStack⁠ ⁠ Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠ Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching?  Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH   JANJI HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE BEAR BUTT WIPES USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “Kids need to see their parents do hard things — and they need to try a few themselves.” In this episode, Troy sits down with Dreama Walton — trail runner, mother, community-builder, and founder of Dreama Adventures — whose journey is equal parts inspiring and badass. Dreama found trail running while living in Germany, unknowingly training for marathons on singletrack. After finishing her first road marathon, she casually signed up for the SwissAlpine 78K, kicking off a long love affair with ultrarunning. Since then, she’s tackled big races, summited Kilimanjaro, and even got her kids involved — literally. She co-founded COS-TRCK, a youth summer trail running camp in Colorado Springs that introduces kids to the magic of moving on dirt. We talk about the juggle of motherhood, training, and meaningful work — and how after 17 years in IT, she left her career to follow her purpose. That purpose? Building Dreama Adventures, a guiding business focused on empowering others through outdoor experiences. Dreama also shares the behind-the-scenes story of Dreama Team, a documentary that captures her life, identity, and the power of doing really hard things — including running ultras as a mom of four. This convo is packed with inspiration, hard-earned lessons, and love for community. Dreama’s Links IG - @dreamawalton       @dreamaAdventureCo DreamAdventures Dreama Team Film Relevant Links COS-TRCK Youth Trail Camp Trail Runner Mag Feature Dreama on UltraSignup Partner Links: Janji - Janji.comA big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option.  Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. ⁠Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase.  Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. ⁠ Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. trail running, ultra-running, Dreama Walton, Dreama Adventures, COS-TRCK, SwissAlpine, youth trail camp, motherhood and running, Kilimanjaro, Dreama Team film, community, passion

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings ⁠Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠ Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching?  Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH   JANJI HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCEBEAR BUTT WIPES USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ "I had to prove I wasn’t just another guy chasing Laz for a headline—I had to show up, over and over." In this episode, Troy sits down with Jered Beasley, journalist, author, and now, the man who got closer to Lazarus Lake than just about anyone. Jered’s new book, Endurance Artist, is part biography, part endurance journey, and full-blown deep dive into the enigmatic world of Laz—the creator of Barkley Marathons and the Backyard Ultra. Jered shares his own story of burnout, reinvention, and how he found healing through running and storytelling. What started as a curious profile of an oddball race director turned into years of friendship, exploration, and digging up the strange and beautiful layers of one of ultrarunning’s most legendary figures. In This Episode: How Jered transitioned from actor to investigative endurance writer The 5-year journey to earn Lazarus Lake’s trust (and the stories that followed) A raw look at failure, resilience, and finding peace through pain Inside the Backyard Ultra and Barkley from a storyteller’s lens The unseen emotional toll of embedded journalism Writing a book while feeling like you’re not good enough Jareds Links: Endurance Artist – Jered’s new book IG - @jaredbnewyork  X - @dbjared Relevant Links: Lazarus Lake – Creator of Barkley and Backyard Ultra BackyardUltra.com The Barkley Marathons Vol State HOTS Strolling Jim 40 Partner Links: Janji - Janji.com A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option.  Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. ⁠Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase.  Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. ⁠Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Jered Beasley, Lazarus Lake, Garry Cantrell, Barkley Marathons, Backyard Ultra, Endurance Artist, ultra running, endurance sports, embedded journalism, failure, resilience, Troy Meadows, MidPacker Pod

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings ⁠Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠ Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching?  Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH   JANJI HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE BEAR BUTT WIPES USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “It’s just a meandering burrito fest… the art of the possible.” - MVD Trailing Indicators returns with a sharp, funny, and honest catch-up featuring Troy Meadows Corinne Shalvoy and Matt Van Dalsem. Corinne recaps a stacked stretch: crewing at Western States, calling the action at Hardrock, then throwing down at the Ouray 50 where she finished within two minutes of the course record and started eyeing Javelina 100K with a sticky-note reminder of the 8:13 mark. MVD chimes in from “off-season” purgatory, pledging his hiatus ends at Javelina and launching a spirited riff on the boom in 200-milers, live coverage, and why finish-line dreams can belong to mid-packers too. Discussion Topics: Catch up after a long break  What's your go to for logging your training and building your training calendar Have 200’s hit the tipping point  Corinne’s Links @corinne_shalvoyage Corinnes’s Coaching Page Shalvoy Running - YouTube Channel Women Can Site Troy’s Links @troyontherunT royontherun.com Troy’s Ultra Coaching Page MVD Links @mvd_trailrunner Highlights: Ouray vs Javelina: from big-mountain strength to desert speed, and why pace comparisons in trail are mostly useless. The Mammoth 200 effect: how livestreams and storytelling are pulling more runners into 200-mile adventures. Relevant links  Western States Endurance Run Hardrock 100 Ouray 50  The Mammoth 200  Javelina Jundred 100K/100M Cocodona 250 Lake Sonoma 100K TrainingPeaks Partner Links: Janji - Janji.comRunning apparel designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option.  Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. ⁠Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase.  Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. ⁠Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. trail running tips, ultra running training, endurance running podcast, race-day nutrition, pacing strategy for ultras, hydration strategy, electrolyte balance, fueling for 100K, heat acclimation for runners, uphill hiking power, downhill technique, injury prevention, recovery protocols, strength training for trail runners, RPE-based training, night running skills, sleep strategy for 200 milers, trail shoe selection, hydration packs, mental resilience

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings ⁠ ⁠Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠ Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching?  Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH   JANJI HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE BEAR BUTT WIPES USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “Sometimes the trail strips everything away—and that’s the gift.” In this special episode of the MidPacker Pod, the script gets flipped. Host Troy Meadows hands over the mic to his new friend Jon Eisen, the host of the Running with Problems Podcast who guides Troy through a deep and personal look at his year—both on the trail and beyond it. From the emotional depths of the Dark Divide 100miler to the lessons of coaching and fatherhood, Troy opens up about failure, identity, and why doing hard things matters so much. The conversation goes beyond splits and mileage—this is about finding clarity in the pain cave, understanding when to pull back, and learning when to lean in harder. Troy shares how the brutal terrain of the Dark Divide wasn’t just a race—it was a reflection of the internal work he’s been doing to grow as an athlete, coach, and human. In this episode: The mental and physical crucible that is the Dark Divide How failure became a launchpad for deeper personal growth The evolving identity of a coach and runner learning to slow down and listen Why building community and connection off the trail matters just as much Reflections on parenting, purpose, and progress If you’re looking for something that will challenge you—inside and out—check out Dark Divide 100K. Relevant Links Dark Divide Trail Races Wonderland Running   Running with Problems Podcast  Partner Links: Janji - Janji.com A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option.  Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. ⁠ Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/ Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase.  Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. ⁠ Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Troy Meadows, John Eisen, Dark Divide 100K, ultra running, coaching, vulnerability, trail running, emotional growth, personal development, failure, redemption, endurance racing, fatherhood

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings SubStack⁠ ⁠Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠ Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching?  Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH   JANJI HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE BEAR BUTT WIPES USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT TRAINING PEAKS start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ “Sometimes your crew believes in you more than you believe in yourself—and that’s enough.” In this episode of the MidPacker Pod, Troy sits down with Emory Atterberry—a trail runner, creative, and co-founder of Hyperlyte Liquid Performance. What started as an idea with his friends turned into a performance nutrition brand powering up some of the gnarliest races out there. Emory takes us inside his Leadville 100 experience—his first 100-miler—and it’s packed with heart, grit, and some hilarious behind-the-scenes moments. From quad blowouts at mile 38 to a life-changing climb up Powerline in the dark, this race wasn’t just about finishing. It was about confronting pain, embracing vulnerability, and choosing to keep going when everything screamed "stop." In this episode: How Emory’s inner drive, shaped by his upbringing and love for sports, led him to ultra running The emotional rollercoaster of Leadville 100, from blowing up to rising back up with support from friends and crew (including a pep talk from Andy Glaze) Behind the scenes of Hyperlyte's new H2C formula—crafted by runners, for runners The lessons Emory learned from the struggle—and how he plans to carry them forward Whether you’re training for your first 50K or your fifth 100, Emory’s story will remind you that the magic happens when you go deep—and don’t back down. Relevant Links Leadville Trail 100 Run Hyperlyte Liquid Performance Hyperlyte on Instagram Andy Glaze on Instagram Partner Links: Janji - Janji.com A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com,Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. More Carbs, More Dirt, More Miles. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Training Peaks - https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/A training app as versatile as you. Start your free trial at  https://www.trainingpeaks.com/midpacker/ Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option.  Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. ⁠Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com/Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase.  Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. ⁠ Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Emory Atterberry, Leadville 100, Hyperlyte, endurance, ultra running, trail running, mental toughness, startup life, Andy Glaze, H2C, crew, DFL, redemption, perseverance, sports culture, long-distance running

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts. Join the Newsletter at: ⁠MidPack Musings SubStack⁠ ⁠Support the MidPacker Pod on ⁠Patreon⁠.⁠ Check Out MPP Merch Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods. Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching?  Check out Troy’s Coaching Page STOKED TO PARTNER WITH   JANJI HYPERLYTE LIQUID PERFORMANCE BEAR BUTT WIPES  USE PROMO CODE MIDPACER FOR A SWEET DISCOUNT “I try not to let the accident define me, but rather the actions that I took after that define who I am.” This week, on the MidPacker Pod Troy Meadows welcomes Jeff Waldmuller, a true multi-hyphenate — musician, prosthetist, para-athlete, and relentless endurance junkie. Jeff’s story starts with music. He toured the world as a trumpet player, even performing with Emmy and Tony award-winning shows. But after a devastating motorcycle accident nearly cost him his arm and leg, Jeff made a bold decision to amputate below the knee and rewrite his story. That choice opened the door to running, triathlons, and ultra-endurance racing He transitioned from the stage to the start line, racing sprint triathlons to full Ironman, grinding through marathons and ultras, and ultimately setting his sights on the Leadville 100. At Leadville, Jeff has faced brutal setbacks: crashes, broken bones, missed cutoffs — yet he always comes back, fueled by the mantra: “I commit, I won’t quit.” Beyond racing, Jeff’s day job as a prosthetist with Ottobock has taken him to the Tokyo and Paris Paralympic Games, where he provided free repairs and equipment for athletes competing on the world stage. His advocacy stretches further with organizations like Challenge Athletes Foundation, Limbs for Life Foundation, Team Catapult, and Full Circle Movement, where he helps create access, mentorship, and mobility for adaptive athletes. Jeff’s journey is about resilience, creativity, and proving that identity isn’t defined by what happens to you — but by what you choose to do next. Relevant Links IG: @strideswithjeff Challenge Athletes Foundation Limbs for Life Foundation Team Catapult Ottobock  Leadville Race Series Partner Links: Janji - Janji.com A big shoutout to our sponsor, Janji! Their running apparel is designed for everyday exploration, and 2% of sales support clean water initiatives worldwide. Plus, with a five-year guarantee, you know it's gear you can trust. Check them out at janji.com. Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. Hyerlyte Liquid Performance - https://www.hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Made by the ultra-endurance athlete, for the ultra-endurance athlete. H001 is a new hydration mix that has the carbs and sodium your body needs for high-output adventures in a single serving. Check them out at hyperlyteliquidperformance.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your individual order and 10% off your first subscription order. “The Kid” Hans Troyer Documentary Bear Butt Wipes - Bearbuttwipes.com Portable individually wrapped wipes for when nature calls and a DNF is not an option.  Bear Butt Wipes: Stay wild. Stay clean. Check them out at Bearbuttwipes.com Use the code MIDPACKER for 10% off your order. ⁠Run Trail Life⁠ - https://runtraillife.com Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!! Use code: midpackerpod to double the donation from your purchase.  Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's. ⁠Freetrail⁠ - https://freetrail.com/ Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today. Jeff Waldmuller, prosthetist, para-athlete, Challenge Athletes Foundation, Ottobock, Paralympics, Leadville 100, ultrarunning, adaptive sports, endurance