Episode 59 - From Twins to Trails: Taylor Nowlin’s Postpartum Return to Racing

In this episode of the Trail Network Podcast, host Rachel Drake sits down with professional trail runner, ICU nurse, and new mom of twins, Taylor Nowlin. Known for her top-10 finishes at Western States, CCC, and OCC, Taylor opens up about the highs and lows of pregnancy, motherhood, and her remarkable return to racing just eight months postpartum.

Taylor shares the surprise of learning she was having twins while her husband was off-grid on a climbing trip, the complications that led to a high-risk pregnancy and early bed rest, and the physical and emotional challenges of recovering from a C-section. She also reflects on how her sponsors supported her through this season of change, and how strength training, a shift in mindset, and support from her community helped guide her back to competitive racing.

Now training with coach Paul Lind and focusing on shorter, faster trail events like the Broken Arrow 23K, Taylor is embracing a new chapter of motherhood and racing—balancing lower mileage with higher intention. She and Rachel also share plenty of laughs about postpartum life, family travel chaos, and the role of their dogs as unofficial cleanup crew during baby mealtimes.

Whether you're an athlete, a parent, or somewhere in between, this episode is an honest and inspiring look at resilience, identity, and the joy of returning to sport after life-changing transitions.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji with the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.