The Freetrail Podcast with Dylan Bowman

Dakota Jones, a seasoned trail runner and founder of the environmental nonprofit Footprints, shares his journey and ambitions. He discusses his upcoming attempt to break the 100-mile American record while raising $30,000 to support youth climate initiatives. Dakota reflects on the evolution of trail running and his personal training strategies over the years. He emphasizes the importance of community connection, mentorship, and the role of running in driving social impact, revealing how his passion fuels a larger mission for climate action.

Mario Fraioli is a running thought leader, media creator, and coach based in Marin County, CA. He is the author of The Morning Shakeout newsletter and the host of The Morning Shakeout podcast. Every year, we get together to riff on various topics, especially focusing on our respective lives, running journeys, and media careers. It's become a very fun annual tradition. This year, we also discuss Mario's relationship with Vincent Bouillard and the running prowess of BYU alumni.     Sponsors: Use code freetrail10 for 10% off Speedland Footwear Grab a trail running pack from Osprey Use code FREETRAIL25 for 25% off your first order of NEVERSECOND nutrition at never2.com 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

Corrine Malcolm returns to talk through some news in the trail running world.   Topics: Learnings from the Stian Angermund episode Athlete free agency announcements Arc of Attrition and Hong Kong 100 results Way too early Gorge Waterfalls 100k preview Upcoming coverage of Black Canyon 100k and Tarawera Sponsors: Use code freetrail10 for 10% off Speedland Footwear Grab a trail running pack from Osprey Use code FREETRAIL25 for 25% off your first order of NEVERSECOND nutrition at never2.com 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

Stian Angermund, a two-time World Champion trail runner from Norway, opens up about his shocking doping allegations. He candidly discusses the emotional and financial struggles faced after his positive test for a banned diuretic. Stian navigates through the complexities of A and B sample testing while maintaining his innocence. He stresses the need for integrity in sports and the crucial support from the trail running community during this tumultuous time. As he prepares for a comeback, he reflects on valuable lessons and the importance of honest advocacy.

Michelino Sunseri, a professional runner from Driggs, ID, made headlines by breaking the Grand Teton FKT in 2024, using a controversial route. He delves into the complexities of FKT ethics, sharing the challenges he faced after his record was rejected due to a legal dispute with the National Park Service. Michelino reflects on his emotional journey, the history of FKTs, and the supportive running community amid scrutiny. The conversation reveals the thin line between triumph and controversy in the world of competitive trail running.

Corrine Malcolm, a trail running expert and analyst, joins to dissect the latest in trail running accolades and athlete movements. They analyze the Trail Runner of the Year results, highlighting representation and potential biases. Discussions include Courtney Dauwalter's contract extension, major athletes switching teams, and the dynamics of athlete independence. The challenges of athlete rankings and sponsorship tensions in the wake of doping allegations are also explored, offering a thrilling glimpse into the evolving world of trail running.

Gina Lucrezi, founder of Trail Sisters and newly elected Chaffee County Commissioner, shares her inspiring journey from trail running to local politics. She discusses the community-building success of Trail Sisters, which champions inclusivity for female runners. Gina explores the challenges of running a political campaign, emphasizing the importance of local engagement and sustainable land use. As she prepares for her term, listeners gain insight into her goals for Chaffee County and the impact of her work on outdoor communities.

Karel Sabbe is a trail runner for On from Belgium, specializing in long trail FKTs. Most notably Karel set the PCT FKT in 2016, the AT FKT in 2021, the Via Alpina FKT in 2021, and the PCT FKT again in 2023. He is also a Barkley Marathons finisher and Bigs Backyard Ultra World Champion. The longer and harder the adventures, the more he excels. This is his first appearance on the podcast.     Topics discussed:   Karel's early exposure to long trail hiking The original inspiration to pursue FKTs The psychological and spiritual space Karel discovers in long efforts Karel's two completions on the PCT Comparing and contrasting the AT and the PCT Tara Dower's new AT FKT and their different approaches Karel's brother-in-law and crew chief Lessons from his 2023 Barkley finish  Announcing his next big project beginning early next year A lot more!   FOLLOW KAREL ON IG     FOLLOW KAREL ON STRAVA     KAREL'S PROFILE ON FKT     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

Corrine Malcolm is a pro trail runner, media personality, and co-host of the Trail Society Podcast. She is our most frequent recurring guest and also Freetrail's Editor-in-Chief. As is our tradition, Corrine is back for our End of Year Podcast where we celebrate the 2024 trail running season. These are the categories that we review:   Trail Runner Of The Year: Top-5 M/W Performance Of The Year: Top-3 M/F FKTs Of The Year Rookies Of The Year Overall Story of 2024 Bill Dooper Spirit  Award - Someone who made an impact outside of being a good athlete Predictions for 2025 Personal highlights from 2024 and what we're excited about for 2025   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

Nick Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic and a 50k age-group record holder, shares his journey from marathon racing to ultra-running. He discusses the interplay between media and running, reflecting on leadership challenges at The Atlantic. Nick reveals the personal growth he's experienced through long-distance running, emphasizing balance in a hectic life. The conversation touches on a mysterious hiker story, personal running aspirations, and the transformative power of embracing change. His insights blend humor with deep reflections on resilience and fulfillment.