The Freetrail Podcast with Dylan Bowman

Tim Tollefson is a pro runner for Craft Sportswear, living in Mammoth Lakes, CA. He is also the Founder and Race Director of Mammoth Trail Fest. Tim is just eclipsing his tenth year as a trail runner where he's been one of the best athletes in the world. Approaching his 40th birthday, Tim is in a bit of a transition, still motivated to compete at the top while building the foundation for his next chapter. Tim is a longtime friend and our careers are unfolding in similar ways, making this a really fun conversation.   Topics discussed: Creativity and craftsmanship The practical physical and mental realities of aging The importance of continuous self-work Living in alignment with personal values Burning clean fuel vs dirty fuel metaphorically Tim's 2024 season including his DNF at UTMB The rapid changes in the sport and increasing competition Tim's relationship with UTMB championship Vincent Bouillard Mammoth Trail Fest's growth The idea of pursuing your life's work The controversy and peaceful resolution of the Golden Trail race in Mammoth Tim's personal development Goals for 2025 A lot more! Craft's film about Tim's 2024 UTMB   Sponsors: Use code freetrail10 for 10% off Speedland Footwear Grab a trail running pack from Osprey Use code FT15 for 15% off Gnarly Nutrition Go to ketone.com/freetrail30 for 30% off a subscription of Ketone IQ Freetrail Links: Website | Freetrail Pro | Patreon | Instagram | YouTube | Freetrail Experts   Dylan Links: Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn | Strava

Caleb Olson, a professional trail runner for Nike, shares his incredible journey as the fastest debutante at the Western States race and his mountaineering exploits. He discusses the vibrant trail scene in Salt Lake City, the significance of good partnerships in sports, and his self-coaching journey. Caleb reflects on his strong 2023 season, including his Golden Ticket win and preparation for 2024. He dives into lessons about motivation and the mental aspects of racing, underscoring the importance of camaraderie in both running and life.

Tara Dower is a trail runner and thru-hiker from Virginia. Last week, Tara Dower managed to lower the overall Fastest Known Time on the Appalachian Trail (AT), previously held by the legend Karel Sabbe, by 13hrs. This is her first appearance on the podcast.   Topics discussed:   -       Tara’s background -       Her failed attempt to thru hike the AT in 2017 and her struggles with anxiety -       Her relationships with former record holders like Karl Meltzer & Jenn Pharr-Davis -       Her decision to go southbound instead of northbound -       Doing Hardrock only three weeks before the attempt -       Her slow start and need to make up a lot of time -       We talk about her crew known as chump change and her crew chief Rascal -       The saying that “the trail provides” and what that means practically -       Compare and contrast her strategy with Karrel Sabbe’s -       The character of the trail itself, what makes the AT different -       We talk about the practical tactics of sleep and self care -       A lot more!   Subscribe to Tara's YouTube   Follow Tara on Strava   Sponsors: Use code freetrail10 for 10% off Speedland Footwear Grab a trail running pack from Osprey Use code FT15 for 15% off Gnarly Nutrition Go to ketone.com/freetrail30 for 30% off a subscription of Ketone IQ Freetrail Links: Website | Freetrail Pro | Patreon | Instagram | YouTube | Freetrail Experts   Dylan Links: Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn | Strava

Jean-Marc Djian is the brand new VP of Footwear for SATISFY and one of the OG shoe dogs of trail running. Jean-Marc worked at Salomon for almost 20 years, pioneering trail running footwear during an important moment for the sport. After Salomon, Jean-Marc went to The North Face where he was able to significantly improve the brand's footwear offering. We talk about his career and learnings from both brands and look ahead to the goals for SATISFY.   Topics discussed: The intersection of science and soul Jean-Marc's Olympic hockey career & the psychology of the goalie The birth of Salomon trail running His relationship with Jean-Luc Diard, the Co-Founder of HOKA The 0 to 1 process for TNF footwear His transition to SATISFY and the intention behind it The evolution of trail footwear over time Athletes who are pushing their sport forward A lot more! Follow Benjamin Vadrines   Sponsors: Use code freetrail10 for 10% off Speedland Footwear Grab a trail running pack from Osprey Use code FT15 for 15% off Gnarly Nutrition Go to ketone.com/freetrail30 for 30% off a subscription of Ketone IQ Freetrail Links: Website | Freetrail Pro | Patreon | Instagram | YouTube | Freetrail Experts   Dylan Links: Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn | Strava

Join champion racers Jane Maus and Patrick Kipnengo, along with rising star Johen DeLeon, as they discuss their exhilarating experiences at the A-Basin Cirque Series race. Jane shares her competitive journey, while Patrick offers insights on overcoming high-altitude challenges. Johen steals the show with captivating storytelling, reflecting on his near victory and the importance of mental resilience in trail running. Their camaraderie shines as they celebrate achievements and inspire future generations of athletes.

Patrick Kipngeno, a top athlete in the Cirque Series, along with racers Philemon Kiriago and Adrian Macdonald, dive into their experiences preparing for the A-Basin event. They discuss the excitement of competing in ultra-trail racing and how it transforms them personally. Julian Carr, founder of the Cirque Series, shares insights on the series' unique community-focused atmosphere. The group highlights the significance of Kenyan athletes in trail running, their supportive training environments, and the blend of skiing and trail cultures that enrich their racing experiences.

Katie Schide, the 2024 UTMB champion, shares her exhilarating journey of breaking the course record in tough conditions. She discusses her goal-setting strategies, the rigorous training and recovery involved in tackling the WS/UTMB double, and her fearless racing approach. The conversation dives into her mental focus during UTMB week, her ambitious sub-22hr goal, and insights on navigating sponsorship expectations. Katie also reflects on the emotional landscape following major races and her innovative techniques for peak performance.

This week features compelling reflections on the incredible achievements of UTMB champions, highlighting Katie Scheid as an inspiration for female runners. The discussions dive into the camaraderie among women in ultra running, as well as the balance of athletics and innovation showcased by a mountain running champion with a career in materials engineering. Listeners will also uncover triumphs and challenges faced by athletes in the competitive landscape, including the emotional stories from both veterans and newcomers. Join in on the excitement surrounding trail running's evolving dynamics!

Hayden Hawks, the CCC champion and rising star in trail running, shares his emotional journey following his stunning victory. He reflects on how family bonds motivated him, especially the moments with his young son. The conversation dives into his confident race strategy and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. He also discusses his year of triumphs, smart training, and mental well-being, while expressing hope for the future of his running career and the broader trail running community.

In this engaging conversation with Toni McCann, a celebrated trail runner and CCC champion, she reflects on her emotional victory and personal growth throughout the race. Toni shares insights on adapting race plans and the vital role of a supportive community. She discusses the intense challenges of her first 100K, from mental hurdles to high temperatures, and how these experiences shape her ambitions for future ultramarathons, including Western States. Her passion for the sport and camaraderie among competitors shines through!