Join Brendan Leonard and his mom as they dive deep into the joys and absurdities of ultrarunning. Expect humorous tales about race regrets and poop strategies that add some comedic relief to the endurance game. Brendan shares what drew him to the middle of the pack, where the magic happens. The conversation emphasizes community, storytelling, and the lighter side of ultra running, making it clear that the journey is just as important as the finish line.
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A Mom's Interview
Brendan's mom, Kathy, interviews him about his ultra-running experiences.
She asks about his motivations, challenges, and if he ever feels like giving up.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Backcountry Bathroom Breaks
Brendan discusses bathroom strategies for ultra-runners.
He recommends using the backcountry over port-a-potties when possible and carries a latex glove and wet wipe.
question_answer ANECDOTE
From Marathons to Ultras
Brendan transitioned from marathons to ultramarathons.
He found marathons too much running and ultramarathons a better way to experience the mountains without constant fear of death like in climbing.
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The book tells the story of Christopher McCandless, a well-educated young man from a middle-class family who, after graduating from college, gave away his savings, abandoned his car, and set out on a journey to live in the Alaskan wilderness. The narrative, written by Jon Krakauer, explores McCandless's adventures, his interactions with various people he met along the way, and the circumstances leading to his untimely death. Krakauer's investigation involves interviewing McCandless's family, friends, and people he encountered, as well as visiting the places McCandless had been. The book delves into themes of idealism, rebellion, and the allure of the wilderness, presenting a nuanced and gripping account of McCandless's life and death.
Slaughterhouse-five
Kurt Vonnegut
This novel follows the life of Billy Pilgrim, a chaplain's assistant in the U.S. Army during World War II. Billy becomes 'unstuck in time' and experiences his life out of order, including his time as a prisoner of war in Dresden during the Allied firebombing. The book is a powerful anti-war statement, blending Vonnegut's own experiences with science fiction elements, such as Billy's abduction by aliens from Tralfamadore. It explores themes of post-traumatic stress, the absurdity of war, and the human condition, using Vonnegut's characteristic black humor and fatalistic tone.
Night Boat To Tangier
Kevin Barry
Kevin Barry's "Night Boat to Tangier" is a darkly humorous and poignant novel that explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the complexities of human relationships. Set against the backdrop of a bustling port city in Morocco, the story centers on two aging Irish criminals who find themselves caught in a web of deceit and betrayal. Barry's writing is characterized by its sharp wit and evocative prose, creating a sense of atmosphere and immediacy. The novel's exploration of themes of aging, mortality, and the search for meaning in life resonates deeply with readers. The characters are richly drawn and unforgettable, their flaws and vulnerabilities making them all the more human and relatable. The novel's ending is both surprising and satisfying, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page is turned.
60 Meters to Anywhere
60 Meters to Anywhere
Brendan Leonard
Welcome Brendan Leonard to The Trailhead! He’s the mind behind Semi-Rad, the master of stick figure cartoons, and now, he’s Zoë’s new co-host on The Trailhead. But instead of the usual "tell us about yourself" intro, we’re doing things our way. In this episode, Brendan gets interviewed by the person who knows him best—his mom.
Kathy Leonard pulls no punches in this no-holds-barred sit-down, asking about everything from poop strategies to race regrets.
We also chat about what drew Brendan to ultrarunning, why the middle of the pack is where the magic happens, and how humor helps us survive the weirdest parts of trail running.
We’re not here to chase clout or finish lines—we’re here for the characters, the comedy, and the community that make this sport what it is.
The Trailhead 
