Dirt And Vert

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're diving deep into the heart of the trail running community with a very special guest: Terry Chiplin, the driving force behind the US Trail Running Conference!Terry shares his personal and inspiring journey into running, from his childhood in England to the transformative landscapes of Colorado. We'll hear about the spark that ignited his passion for the sport and how that passion led to the creation of the US Trail Running Conference.But this isn't just about a conference; it's about the incredible community that makes trail running so unique. Terry discusses the challenges faced by race directors, the importance of inclusivity, and the evolution of the conference to embrace diverse voices.More than just a race or an event, running for Terry is a connection – to nature, to oneself, and to the unparalleled camaraderie of the running world. Get ready to feel the excitement as we talk about the upcoming conference in Knoxville, Tennessee, and the bright future of trail running!GIVEAWAY ALERT! 🎉 Follow the Dirt and Vert Instagram page and find the podcast release post with Terry and share the post to your story, and tag 5 trail-loving friends for a chance to win a FREE one-day pass to the US Trail Running Conference (Wednesday 15th, Thursday 16th, or Friday 17th)! Don't miss out on this chance to connect with the heart of our sport.Plus, our amazing listeners get an EXCLUSIVE discount! Use code 2025DIRTVERT40 when registering for the 3-day Race Director option before May 2nd at this link: https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=121458 Chapters00:00 Introduction to Trail Running and Terry Chiplin06:06 Terry's Journey: From Childhood to Running Passion12:04 The Transition: Rediscovering Running After a Dark Period17:51 Establishing a Life in Colorado and Trail Running Camps23:59 The Birth of the US Trail Running Conference30:04 The Evolution of the Conference and Its Impact36:10 Current Status and Future of the Conference46:29 Conference Schedule and Activities48:12 Merchandise and Vendor Opportunities52:59 Personal Journey and Motivation for Running01:00:00 Favorite Trails and Running Experiences01:09:20 Community and Networking at the Conference

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by Kristian Morgan, an ultra runner whose journey is nothing short of epic. And get this – he currently holds the second fastest time in BOTH directions on the Appalachian Trail and he's going back in 2025 for another attempt!Kristian takes us on his incredible adventure, from tackling the legendary Appalachian Trail to his relentless pursuit of the Fastest Known Time (FKT). We'll hear about the challenges, the triumphs, and the hard-earned wisdom he's gained along the way.But it's not just about the miles. Kristian opens up about the power of community support, his personal training philosophies, and the profound sense of purpose that running has brought to his life. He reflects on his past, the obstacles he's overcome, and his ambitious goals for the future, including conquering the Triple Crown FKT.Prepare to be inspired by a story that proves running can be a transformative force, forging connections and revealing the extraordinary strength within.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Christian Morgan01:03 Christian's Adventurous Beginnings02:39 The Journey into Running04:44 Transition to Ultra Running06:25 Global Running Experiences08:01 Significant Races and Transformations10:01 The Beauty of Thailand North Face 100K13:11 Experiences at UTMB16:07 Transitioning to FKTs19:01 Training for the Appalachian Trail22:07 Lessons from FKT Attempts25:06 The Importance of Support27:55 Planning for the Next FKT Attempt31:07 The Pursuit of Happiness and Relationships49:09 Building a Supportive Community50:03 Exploring the Appalachian Trail52:40 Setting Realistic Goals54:51 Training Strategies and Mileage56:49 The Impact of Weather on Running59:48 Finding Purpose in Running01:06:11 The Role of Running in Personal Growth01:10:57 Culinary Adventures in Running01:12:57 Future Aspirations and Bucket List Races01:17:16 Fueling the Journey01:21:17 Coaching and Sharing Knowledge

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the incredibly inspiring Lindsey Sexton, a two-time No Business 100 finisher whose journey proves that strength and resilience can conquer any obstacle.Lindsey takes us on her remarkable path, from her early days starting a cross-country team in high school to facing down breast cancer and emerging to complete ultra marathons. We'll hear about her motivations, the challenges she's overcome, and the raw emotion of crossing that finish line after her battle.Lindsey emphasizes the vital role of community support, the power of mental strength, and the unwavering belief in oneself that fuels every step. Her story is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to endure and triumph.Get ready to be moved, inspired, and reminded that anything is possible when you refuse to give up on your dreams.Chapters00:00 Lindsey's Running Journey Begins04:23 Transition to Ultra Running09:29 Facing Breast Cancer15:01 The No Business 100 Experience36:01 Emotional Finish and Community Support42:47 Year Two: Overcoming New Challenges51:59 The Journey of Resilience54:31 Overcoming Obstacles and Finding Strength56:45 The Power of Sharing Stories01:00:08 Life Lessons from Running01:02:42 The Importance of Early Detection01:03:44 Running as a Form of Freedom01:06:28 Setting Future Goals01:11:38 The Mindset of a Runner01:21:55 Confidence and Self-Belief

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're bringing you an extraordinary live update from the road! We're checking in with Kallup McCoy II, an inspiring indigenous runner who's embarking on an epic journey across America, a feat accomplished by few indigenous runners since 1928.Kallup is sharing the raw, real-time experience of this incredible endeavor. We'll hear about the challenges he's facing, the unwavering support of his crew and community, and the profound purpose that fuels his every step: to raise awareness about health issues and substance use disorder.This isn't just a story about running; it's a testament to the power of hope, the strength of resilience, and the ability of the human spirit to overcome any obstacle. Kallup's journey is a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, we can achieve the seemingly impossible.Join us as we follow Kallup's footsteps and witness history in the making. And if you're moved to support his mission, please visit www.rezhoperecovery.comChapters00:00 Introduction and Crew Introduction02:33 Challenges on the Road05:23 Mental Health and Substance Use Awareness08:02 Purpose Behind the Run09:36 The Journey of an Indigenous Runner10:48 Cultural Significance and Personal Growth10:51 Celebrating the Journey13:04 Encouragement and Inspiration

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by Alec Cline, an ultra runner who just has the fastest 50 mile top performance time currently this year.Alec's journey is a wild ride, and he's sharing all the details. We're talking about the switch from pavement pounding to trail racing, the mind-bending challenges of ultra racing, and how he learned to push through the pain when his body was screaming "STOP!"But it's not just about the suffering (okay, maybe a little). Alec's dropping knowledge bombs on training strategies, fueling secrets, and the mental game that separates the finishers from the DNFs. We'll even hear about his epic first 100-mile race and the lessons he learned the hard way.If you're ready for some serious inspiration and a healthy dose of "I can do that!" this episode is a must-listen. Alec's story is a reminder that even the most reluctant among us can find our fire on the trails.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Alec Klein and His Running Journey06:18 Transitioning from Road to Trail Running12:49 Experiences in Ultra Racing: Mohican 50 and Big Turtle19:18 The Get Lucky 50: Training and Nutrition Insights25:49 Recovery Strategies and Preparing for Georgia Death Race32:11 Overcoming Challenges: Heart Health and Racing Goals36:55 Navigating Health Challenges and Discovering Fasting40:17 The Journey Back to Running41:07 First 100-Mile Attempt and Lessons Learned44:39 Endurance and Mental Fortitude in Racing52:12 Upcoming Races and Future Aspirations01:12:33 Finding Purpose in Running01:16:09 Running as a Reflection of Identity01:18:12 The Joy of Self-Expression in Running01:19:49 Embracing the Elements: Running in Winter01:21:22 Memorable Races and Personal Connections01:22:29 Fueling the Journey: Favorite Race Snacks01:23:30 Pushing Limits: Longest Distances and Support Systems01:25:27 Dream Races and Cultural Experiences01:28:23 The Evolution of a Runner01:31:57 The Balance of Data and Intuition in Running

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're joined by the one and only Michael Wardian, an endurance athlete who's not just a runner, he's a legend. He holds multiple FKT's and American Records.Michael takes us on his incredible journey, from his early days hitting the pavement to becoming a record-breaking ultra marathoner. We'll dive into his experiences at iconic races like the Boston Marathon, the brutal Badwater, and the historic JFK 50.But it's not just about the races. Michael shares his thoughts on the power of community, the science of nutrition, and the dedication it takes to push the limits of human endurance. And yes, we even talk about running in costumes (because why not?!).From conquering the Appalachian Trail to dreaming of running in space, Michael's story is one of adventure, inspiration, and a deep love for the running community. It's a reminder that running is about more than just personal achievement; it's about connecting with others and inspiring those around you.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Michael Wardian01:01 Michael's Journey into Running04:02 The Boston Marathon Experience05:18 Running in Costumes: Fun and Challenges09:28 Lessons from the Appalachian Trail11:44 Survival in Endurance Events13:07 Training Plans and Coaching Insights17:52 Nutrition and Stomach Training18:50 The Roller Coaster of Ultras23:20 Community in Endurance Racing25:15 The Challenge of Endurance Racing29:23 Transitioning from Marathons to Ultras34:11 The Journey to JFK 50 and Beyond38:23 The Impact of Marathon Training on Ultra Performance43:43 Experiences at Badwater and Beyond49:46 The Importance of Community in Ultra Running52:45 Reframing Competition and Personal Growth56:12 The Journey of the Appalachian Trail58:07 Running Across America for a Cause01:06:42 Experiencing the Run: From San Francisco to Ocean City01:10:43 Inspiring Others Through Running01:17:36 The Essence of Running: A Personal Reflection01:18:41 Celebrating Achievements and Records01:19:39 Race Experiences and Community Support01:21:41 Exploring Fastest Known Times (FKTs)01:25:11 Innovative Running Adventures01:28:37 Transitioning to New Challenges: Rowing and Beyond01:32:55 The Journey of Endurance and Personal Growth01:40:17 Introduction to Ultra Running and Records01:41:14 Celebrating Achievements in Running

Alright, buckle up, Dirt and Vert listeners! This week, we're chatting with a badass ultra runner who just crushed the Southern States 200, taking home third overall and leaving them in the dust. That's right, we're talking about the incredible Ashlie Ithurburn!Ashlie's journey is a wild ride, and she's taking us all the way from those "boring" old road races to the gritty, glorious world of ultra marathons. We'll hear about her first 100-miler, the epic challenge of switching to trail running, and what it really takes to survive (and thrive!) in those multi-day death marches.But it's not all suffering and sweat. We're diving deep into the importance of camaraderie on the trail (because even tough runners need friends!), the power of a rock-solid mindset, and how Ashlie found peace and confidence in the pain cave.If you're ready for some inspiration that'll kick you in the butt and get you out on the trails, this episode is a must-listen. Ashlie's dropping knowledge, sharing laughs, and proving that anything is possible with a little grit and a whole lot of heart.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ashley Itherburn02:53 Ashley’s Journey into Trail Running05:59 Transitioning from Road to Trail08:42 First Ultra Experience and Lessons Learned11:41 The Challenge of 200-Mile Races14:42 Comparing Tahoe 200 and Southern States 20017:40 The Importance of Community in Ultra Running27:25 Trail Running Adventures and Ankle Injuries30:13 The Mental Game of Endurance Racing31:45 Training for the 200-Mile Race34:24 Race Day: Preparation and Anticipation36:17 Navigating the Course: Challenges and Mistakes40:56 Support and Camaraderie During the Race44:08 Pacing Strategies and Personal Goals48:45 Catching Up: The Race for First Place52:42 Final Push: Overcoming Obstacles to Victory57:55 Riding the Highs and Lows of Racing59:34 Teamwork and Support in Endurance Racing01:01:25 The Power of Music and Connection During Races01:03:12 Facing Challenges and Overcoming Fears01:06:12 The Emotional Journey of Winning01:09:50 Finding Confidence Through Running01:14:09 The Importance of Community in Trail Running01:14:55 Mindset at the Start Line01:18:40 Gear Choices for Endurance Races

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're diving deep into the world of grit and camaraderie with Cory Clark, a runner whose journey proves that transformation is always within reach.Cory takes us from his high school athletic days to his full-blown love affair with ultra running, a world where mental fortitude is just as crucial as physical endurance. We talk about the challenges he's faced, from battling injuries to pushing through the pain, and how he's learned to embrace the power of community.But it's not just about the miles. We explore the science of hydration and electrolytes, the importance of preparation, and the sheer joy of pushing your limits. We also dive into Cory's experiences with rucking, a new challenge that's testing his strength and resilience.Cory's story is a reminder that running is more than just a sport; it's a journey of personal growth, connection, and the unwavering belief in the human spirit's ability to overcome any obstacle.

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're sharing a story of extraordinary talent, unwavering spirit, and a legacy that continues to inspire. We're honored to welcome Chris and Melissa Wiseman, parents of the remarkable Darrah Wiseman, a young athlete from Tennessee whose life left an indelible mark.Chris and Melissa recount Darrah's journey, from her early years in sports to her exceptional achievements in track and field, including her 6 state championships. We explore the dedication, the passion, and the sheer talent that made Darrah a shining star.This episode is more than just a recounting of athletic feats. It's a tribute to a life lived with purpose and a story of how a community has rallied to honor Darrah's memory. We discuss the family's mission to build a track in her name, a lasting testament to her impact on young athletes.Join us as we celebrate Darrah's life, her achievements, and the enduring legacy she leaves behind.If you would like to leave a donation for Darrah please visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-darrah-wiseman-building-a-legacy-trackChapters00:00 Introduction to Darrah's Journey02:51 Early Athletic Development05:32 High School Track and Cross Country08:41 State Championships and Achievements11:31 Transition to Focused Training14:22 Challenges and Growth in Competition16:59 Indoor and Outdoor Seasons19:49 Junior Year and Mental Challenges22:58 Senior Year and Future Aspirations34:36 Carrying On a Legacy37:41 The Mindset of a Champion42:04 Building a Track in Her Honor49:01 Community Support and Fundraising Efforts57:43 Upcoming Events and Future Plans

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, buckle up for an adventure-packed episode with ultra runner extraordinaire, Gavin Woody!Gavin's tackled some of the most epic races on the planet, from Badwater 135, Hardrock, UTMB and even the Iditarod Trail Invitational. We dive deep into his journey from casual runner to ultra legend, and how he's learned to embrace challenges, push his limits, and find strength in the ultra community.Gavin opens up about the importance of setting goals, building daily habits, and learning from both victories and setbacks. So if you're ready for a dose of inspiration, adventure, and a whole lot of grit, this episode is a must-listen!Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ultra Running Adventures07:27 Gavin Woody's Journey into Ultra Running14:40 The Transition to Ultra Running25:12 Challenges and Learning in First 100-Mile Race29:42 Family and Community in Ultra Running31:59 Navigating the Challenges of Ultra Racing34:05 Experiences at UTMB and the Importance of Family37:08 The Pigtails Challenge: A Twist of Fate40:40 The Infamous Badwater: A Bucket List Race44:21 Comparing Tough Races: Badwater vs. Hurt47:50 The Dragon's Back Race: A Unique Challenge52:54 The Backyard Ultra Format: A New Experience56:51 Running with Legends: Moab and Beyond01:03:07 The Adventure of Exploration01:06:22 Challenges and Triumphs in Ultra Events01:07:57 Personal Milestones and Achievements01:10:40 The Learning Curve of Adventure Racing01:12:43 Daily Habits and Incremental Progress01:15:51 Team Red, White, and Blue: A Mission of Unity01:28:54 Preparing for the Journey Ahead01:34:55 The Importance of Exercise and Nutrition01:36:37 Medicine 3.0: A Shift in Healthcare01:40:40 The Journey of Running: Personal Reflections01:41:42 Why Do You Run?01:47:53 Listener Questions and Community Engagement01:53:11 Future Aspirations in Ultra Running