The Freetrail Podcast with Dylan Bowman

Race day excitement is captured with firsthand perspectives and live-stream thrills. Weather complications cause strategic shifts, challenging athletes on demanding terrain. The discussion dives into dynamic position changes, highlighting emotional highs and lows during the competition. Insights into sponsorship and innovative running gear add depth, while standout performances from talented competitors like Joylene and emerging East African athletes showcase the evolving landscape of ultra-running. Anticipation builds for an exciting race weekend ahead!

In this interview, Jessica Brazeau, a professional runner for HOKA, shares insights from her recent experiences racing in Chamonix. She reflects on her training techniques for uphill races and the unique challenges of the ETC race within the UTMB series. Jessica discusses the pressures of competing with and without crews, highlighting the joy of community support. She emphasizes the importance of self-care during race transitions and embraces her identity as an athlete, all while celebrating the thrill of ultra-running.

Joyline Chepgneno, the 2025 OCC by UTMB Champion from Kenya and a member of the Milamani Runners team, shares her inspiring journey in the world of trail running. She discusses her resilient return to the sport after motherhood and the incredible support from her community. Joyline reflects on overcoming sponsorship challenges to achieve unexpected victories and highlights the rise of East African athletes in trail running. Her story is a testament to perseverance, camaraderie, and inspiring the next generation of runners.

Judith Wyder, a professional runner for HOKA and Red Bull, known for her trail and mountain running expertise, shares her insights on race dynamics and competitiveness. She discusses adapting to last-minute race changes and the mental resilience required in challenging conditions. Judith reflects on the excitement of returning to the OCC, the camaraderie among female runners, and the unique challenges of balancing family life with competitive racing. Her journey highlights the emotional dynamics of parenting while striving for athletic excellence.

Antoine Charvolin, the 2025 TDS Champion from Annecy, France, shares his exhilarating journey from an engineering background and cross-country skiing to becoming a professional trail runner. He dives into the emotional highs and lows of his recent victory, the importance of community support, and the challenges of transitioning to ultra-distance racing. Charvolin also highlights the significance of cross-training for performance, race preparation, and the bonds formed within the trail running community that make the journey unforgettable.

Join Ryan Sandes, a legendary South African trail runner known for his thrilling endurance feats, and Martina Valmassoi, the 2022 TDS champion from Italy, as they dive into the recent TDS race highlights. They share personal anecdotes about their challenging experiences and the mental fortitude required in ultramarathons. The duo also discusses the rise of short-distance trail races, their importance in developing new talent, and their mutual admiration for the evolving trail running community. Expect insights, strategies, and inspiring performances!

In this riveting conversation, Careth Arnold, the first American to claim victory at the TDS, shares her remarkable journey from Thailand to the thrilling heights of Colorado trail running. She reflects on the physical and mental challenges of her 95-mile race, the vital role of community support, and the emotional weight of balancing family life with competitive pressure. Careth also discusses her deep sisterly bond formed through running and the overarching sense of community in ultra running, celebrating triumphs and the joy of shared passion.

Get ready for the electrifying build-up to the 2025 Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc! The hosts share vibrant stories of race week excitement and athlete energy in Chamonix. Expect thrilling insights on the dynamics of the UTMB landscape, including top contenders and recent athlete withdrawals. They dive into innovative pacing strategies and mental resilience, plus predictions on how weather could impact performances. The community spirit shines through as they discuss fantasy challenges and live coverage plans to keep everyone engaged!

Francesco Puppi, a professional trail runner from Italy and a rising star in the HOKA team, shares insights on his exciting transition to longer distances. He discusses his mindset shift as he prepares for the CCC, focusing on personal growth and key strategies to maintain performance under pressure. The conversation also touches on balancing speed and endurance in training, the camaraderie developed at HOKA Team Camp, and setting personal goals ahead of the race, showcasing the blend of ambition and humility that defines his approach.

In this conversation, Jeff Mogavero, a versatile athlete who recently wowed everyone with a 4th place at the Western States, shares his unique journey through trail running, skiing, river surfing, and hunting. He discusses his preparations for the upcoming UTMB, reflecting on key lessons from his prior races, including hydration strategies and the importance of mental resilience. Jeff's excitement and insight into balancing various athletic passions make this an engaging listen for trail running enthusiasts!