The Freetrail Podcast with Dylan Bowman Zach Miller | Art vs. Science, Hardrock, Bill Dooper, & World Champs
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Dec 4, 2025 Zach Miller, a celebrated ultrarunner known for his blue-collar grit, shares insights on his racing journey and training philosophy. He discusses the balance between art and science in athleticism, reflecting on his early racing days and the evolution of the sport. Miller pays tribute to his late friend Bill Dooper, sharing emotional memories and the inspiration behind the film 'A Lap For Bill.' He also dives into his toughness during races and future goals, including ambitious projects on the horizon.
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Construction Work Built Strength
- Zach balances heavy construction projects with training, finding the manual labor builds grit and functional strength.
- He credits chopping wood and physical work at bar camp with building fall fitness and mental toughness.
Science Can Coexist With Soul
- Sports risk losing soul when everything becomes a spreadsheet of numbers and metrics.
- Science can coexist with artistry; training data can inform but not replace heart and creativity.
Bootlegger To JFK Breakthrough
- Zach recalls debuting at Bootlegger 50K (6th) then winning JFK 50 miles two weeks later.
- That rapid swing launched his ultrarunning career and taught him how different distances demand different approaches.