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This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we’re joined by Jeremy Bohnett, the co-founder of Hyperlyte Liquid Performance. Jeremy’s journey is a fascinating transition from the world of long-distance thru-hiking to the high-intensity realm of 100-mile ultra-marathons. We dive into the "why" behind Hyperlyte, a nutrition company born out of the need to simplify the complicated world of endurance fueling. Jeremy breaks down the science of their high-carb, high-sodium formulas and why they chose an "authentic, messy" brand identity that reflects the reality of trail running over a polished corporate image. Whether you’re curious about the mental shift from walking across the country to running 100 miles, or you're looking for a better way to manage your race-day gut, this conversation with Jeremy is packed with entrepreneurial grit and trail wisdom. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jeremy Bonet and Hopper Lot 03:01 Jeremy's Journey from Thru-Hiking to Trail Running 06:02 Transitioning from Hiking to Running: Challenges and Growth 08:42 The Allure of the 100-Mile Race 11:49 The Community and Camaraderie in Ultra Running 14:42 Fueling Strategies for Endurance Races 17:54 The Science Behind Hopper Lot's Formulation 20:51 Launch and Growth of Hopper Lot 25:04 Timing and Luck in Marketing 28:46 The Importance of Branding 30:02 Reflecting on Success 32:54 The Simplicity of Running 35:49 What Sets Hopper Lot Apart? 40:28 Pride in Authenticity 42:02 Favorite Gear and Products

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we sit down with the newly crowned MAD Backyard Ultra Course Record Holder, Ashley Pipkin! Ashley's story is the ultimate proof that you don't need to be a "lifelong athlete" to dominate the ultra scene. She takes us through her transformation from a non-athletic childhood to outlasting the field and rewriting the record books. We dive deep into the specific mental grit required to run loops until you're the last one standing, her "eat everything" nutrition strategy, and why she values raw, real-life trail experiences over the curated world of social media. From her first "accidental" interest in long distances to her upcoming goals at the legendary Barkley Fall Classic, Ashley breaks down the mindset of a champion and the importance of having a rock-solid support system (shoutout to her husband!) in your corner. Takeaways: Ashley transitioned from recreational running to competitive ultra running after college. She emphasizes the importance of nutrition and eating enough during races. Ashley enjoys the community aspect of ultra running and the friendships formed. Her first 50K was a challenging but rewarding experience, leading to her interest in longer distances. She has a strong focus on mental preparation and self-discovery through running. Ashley believes in the importance of setting personal goals and pushing limits. She has learned to embrace the challenges and unpredictability of ultra races. Her husband plays a crucial role in her support system during races. Ashley finds joy in the beauty of nature while running and values the real experiences over social media. She is excited about future races and the potential for personal growth in her running journey.

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we are joined by a true legend of the ultra world: Maggie Guterl. From her humble beginnings in Philly to becoming a Team USA standout and the first woman to win the Big’s Backyard Ultra outright, Maggie’s journey is one of pure grit and constant evolution. Maggie takes us back to her first 24-hour race where she battled extreme nausea to hit 97 miles, her legendary experiences at Western States, and her deep dive into the world of Laz Lake at the Barkley Fall Classic and the full Barkley Marathons. She opens up about the "superpower" of community, recovering from major Achilles surgery, and the tactical aggression needed to stay in the Top 10 in today’s ultra scene. Whether you're curious about her hydration struggles (losing 14lbs of water weight!) or her "singular goals" during world championships, this episode is a masterclass in the mindset of a champion. Coaching Announcement! 🏃‍♀️💨 Maggie is officially taking on new athletes! If you want a champion’s perspective in your corner to help you refine your training and race strategy, reach out to her at:[email protected]

🚨 SPECIAL OFFER: Brian is giving all Dirt & Vert listeners 10% OFF the entire store at thefooster.com!Use code: DIRT10 at checkout or click here to shop now! This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we sit down with Brian Abadia, the founder of Fooster. Brian’s journey is a powerful look at how a major setback—a debilitating back injury—can actually be the catalyst for a total life transformation and a thriving business. Brian shares how he moved from the high-impact world of CrossFit into running as a way to regain his mobility and mental clarity. Along the way, he realized that the nutrition world for endurance athletes was cluttered, confusing, and often lacking a personal touch. That realization led to the birth of Fooster, a nutrition marketplace designed to take the guesswork out of fueling so you can focus on the miles. We dive into the "why" behind Fooster, Brian’s philosophy that running is the ultimate life teacher, and the unique way he curates his shop—by personally testing every gel, bar, and "rocket fuel" before it ever hits the site.

The OG trio is finally back together! This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, David, Matt, and Mike reunite for a special Christmas run to close out the year and look ahead to an massive 2026. We’re revealing our 2026 Bucket List Races, including big goals for the Cruel Jewel 50 and the No Business Hundo. We also get technical on what it really takes to train for the Mid-State Mile, specifically how to dial in the elevation training necessary to survive those climbs. The guys also give their unfiltered first impressions of the new Hyperlite nutrition products, talk about the upcoming Smoky Mountain 24-hour Challenge, and share some laughs about the "gastronomic gauntlet" that is the Taco Bell 50K. Most importantly, we take a moment to reflect on the growth of this community and share our gratitude for every one of you who joined us on the trails this year.

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, David and Matt are dropping some massive announcements that will shape the next two years of trail running in the Southeast! We are officially announcing a heavy-hitting collaboration with Yeti Trail Runners for a brand-new race in Sevierville, and giving you the lowdown on the legendary (and slightly chaotic) Taco Bell 50K—a free event that proves ultra running doesn't always have to be serious to be a challenge. We look ahead to why 2026 is going to be the biggest year yet for East Coast Adventures (ECA). Plus, we’re talking team dynamics, the nutrition strategies fueling our current training blocks, and a heartfelt thank you to you—our listeners—for the incredible growth we’ve seen this year.

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we’re joined by Kayla Fitzgerald, the force behind Palmetto Ultras, whose journey from "hating running" to directing unique endurance events is a masterclass in mental strength and community building. Kayla gets real about how running started as a rare moment of personal peace amidst parenting responsibilities and quickly evolved into a spontaneous dive into the world of ultras. We discuss her transition into race directing, where she stepped up to keep her local ultra scene alive, even when faced with "sink-or-swim" challenges like unexpected flooding in the Francis Marion trails. From the mental grit required for the Last Man Standing format to her passion for creating the most inclusive, welcoming environment possible, Kayla’s story is all about the joy of nature and the power of the running community. Plus, we talk about why aid station snacks might just be the most important part of the race!

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're honored to sit down with John Calabrese, an ultra runner whose journey proves that sometimes, the hardest parts of life lead you straight to the starting line! John opens up about how personal struggles, including a divorce, fueled his passion and led him from the road to the trail. We dive deep into the mental challenges of ultra running, sharing hilarious anecdotes about the hallucinations that come with extreme fatigue (seriously, what did he see?!). But John's story is bigger than miles and mirages. He shares his incredible commitment to Ainsley's Angels, running alongside people with disabilities and finding profound joy in supporting others. John's journey highlights the power of community, resilience, and finding pure joy in the run. Get ready for an honest, funny, and deeply inspiring conversation that shows how running can truly be the best therapy.

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're honored to welcome the incredible Ashlie! Her story is proof that hard work, meticulous planning, and a little bit of community magic can lead to extraordinary achievements. Ashlie takes us behind the scenes of her monumental achievement: setting the Pinhoti FKT! We dive into the year-long logistics, the crucial nutrition adjustments, and how she learned to "burn the boats" for total commitment. She shares the raw, honest truth about the challenges faced during the FKT and the sheer relief and celebration at the finish. But what truly fueled her? Ashlie opens up about the "village" that made it possible—the unwavering family support and the experienced pacers who carried her through. From tackling the Mohican 100 Miler to the emotional highs and lows of the Pinhoti, this conversation is a powerful reminder that perseverance pays off, and that the best part of ultra running is the people you share it with.

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joining forces with the dynamic Mariah Fields, a remarkable ultra runner who now leads the pack as Race Director for Coyote Ugly Racing! Mariah takes us on her incredible journey, starting from battling exercise-induced asthma in middle school to finding her strength on the ultra trails after having children. She opens up about the tough lessons learned, including the grueling heat of Cruel Jewel, and the powerful mental health benefits that running provides. We dive deep into the world of Coyote Ugly Racing—how the name reflects the love for the trail's beautiful hardships—and why creating an inclusive, supportive community is the heart of every event. Mariah’s story is a testament to resilience, the bond between women runners, and the joy of finding your purpose (and your tribe!) in the dirt. Get ready for an inspiring conversation that celebrates transformation, perseverance, and the ultimate camaraderie of the ultra life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mariah Fields and Her Journey 03:24 Early Running Experiences and High School Athletics 06:26 Returning to Running After a Break 09:28 First Races and the Tortoise and the Hare Concept 12:22 Transitioning to Ultra Running 15:39 Lessons Learned from Ultras 18:32 Challenges Faced in the Cruel Jewel 50-Miler 21:24 The Importance of Listening to Your Body 24:30 Experiences on the Duncan Ridge Trail 27:26 The Struggles of Chafing and DNF Experiences 33:46 Lessons Learned from Chafing and Running 38:01 Heat Exhaustion and Its Impact on Performance 43:58 The Journey of Race Directing 49:22 The Birth of Coyote Ugly Racing 59:08 Challenges and Triumphs in Race Directing 01:09:09 Exploring Fire Tower and Feral Mountain Races 01:13:10 The Challenge of the 100K Race 01:20:11 The Importance of Inclusivity in Ultra Running 01:21:15 Finding Peace Through Running 01:24:55 The Challenges of Race Directing 01:31:03 Favorite Trails and Community Connections

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're sitting down with an emerging ultra phenom, Hans Troyer! His journey is a testament to raw talent, resilience, and the power of setting audacious goals. Hans takes us from his days dreaming of football and basketball to finding his true calling on the trails. He gets real about the lessons learned the hard way—like the early struggles with fueling and hydration—and the remarkable comeback after a serious injury that only fueled his fire. We dive into his incredible 2025 season, where he racked up multiple top finishes in prestigious races, including an impressive 8th place finish at Western States 100 (a major accomplishment for a 100-mile debut!) and earning a Golden Ticket earlier in the year! He shares his innovative nutrition strategies, his focus on intrinsic motivation, and how he's navigating the pressures of being in the ultra spotlight. Hans's story is a powerful reminder that the best version of yourself is always possible, and that success in ultra running comes down to continuous learning and the sustainability of your passion. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hans Troyer 01:10 Hans's Early Running Journey 06:47 Transition to Ultra Running 10:22 Fueling Challenges and Learning 14:54 The Impact of Rabdo and Recovery 19:54 Grindstone Experience and Lessons Learned 24:15 Success at Tussey Mountain Back 50 Mile 29:27 The Challenges of Endurance Racing 29:58 Overcoming Setbacks and Building Confidence 32:49 A Year of Dominance in Racing 36:03 Reflections on Race Performances 38:52 The Reality of Racing Under Pressure 40:47 The Importance of Community in Racing 43:27 Future Goals and Upcoming Races 46:15 Strategies for Recovery and Longevity 56:16 The Hardest Race Experience 01:00:42 A Life-Changing Hospital Experience 01:03:48 The Drive to Run: Passion and Purpose 01:07:47 Aiming for Greatness in Ultra Racing 01:09:54 Handling the Spotlight and Pressure 01:13:06 Chasing vs. Being Chased in Races 01:14:12 Experiences at Blue Ridge Ultra 01:15:00 Innovative Hydration: The Super Bottle 01:18:16 Looking Ahead: Future Races and Goals

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, your hosts David and Matt are pulling back the curtain on the tough lessons and big wins from their latest ultra adventures! We're diving straight into the deep end, starting with the Yeti 100, where David faced down some serious health issues and learned, once again, that ultra running is less about the legs and more about the fight. Then, Matt brings the good news, sharing his successful strategy and grit from the Blue Ridge Ultra! This episode is packed with real-world takeaways on mastering the fundamentals: the absolute necessity of nailing your nutrition and hydration strategies (lessons learned the hard way!). We’re also talking about the vital role community support plays in fueling the growth of East Coast Adventures. Plus, get ready for a look ahead at our future race plans, including Firewater, and a sneak peek at innovative ideas—like live streaming future events—and what masterclasses we should tackle next with you, our amazing listeners!

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're honored to have a familiar voice and a cornerstone of our community: Mike Taylor, co-founder of East Coast Adventures! Mike takes us through his deeply personal and inspiring journey, from his early days in sports to the unexpected moment he dove headfirst into marathons. He opens up about how running became a therapeutic outlet during challenging times, proving that the trails can truly heal. We dive into the founding story of East Coast Adventures—how a shared passion between Mike and David grew into a force for supporting local runners. Mike gets real about his recent races, including the brutal No Business run, where he faced intense pain, moments of doubt, and the true test of resilience. This episode is a powerful celebration of perseverance, community, and the emotional strength it takes to push through adversity. Mike's story is a profound reminder that every challenge is an opportunity for personal growth, and that the finish line is always within reach when you have the heart to keep going.

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're lacing up with Richard Abernathy, an avid ultra runner and the visionary Race Director behind Dirty Wolf Racing! Richard takes us on his incredible journey, which started with a simple competition and evolved into a deep passion for the trails. We dive into the wild world of race directing, covering unique events like the challenging Beast of the East and the brutal Hellhole 100K, where the flat terrain somehow makes it even tougher! But this episode is all about the power of story. Richard shares why storytelling is so crucial to the ultra running experience and how the scenic beauty of the trails fuels his passion. We also get the scoop on his epic personal challenge: running 12 ultras in 12 months! From the joy of helping others reach their goals to the importance of creativity in race directing, Richard’s story is a testament to community, grit, and the belief that every mile is an adventure waiting to be shared.

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're honored to sit down with Lauren, a remarkable ultra runner whose story is a masterclass in resilience and grit. Lauren shares her incredible journey from battling a broken ankle to achieving the ultimate dream: qualifying for Team USA! We dive deep into her training philosophy, her harrowing experience in the final miles of a race, and the mental fortitude it takes to push through extreme fatigue and confusion. But it's not all about the suffering. Lauren opens up about the importance of effort-based pacing, the power of real food during long races, and the invaluable role of a strong support system. We also explore the unique challenges and camaraderie found in backyard ultras. This episode is a powerful reminder that every setback is a setup for a comeback, and that with a little bit of grit and a lot of heart, anything is possible.