Free Outside

I finally got Allison Powell—producer, ultrarunner, and now bonafide backpacker—on the podcast to talk about her first solo thru-hike: the Wonderland Trail. Spoiler alert: she tried to bring hummus, carrots, and a full picnic on a 90+ mile, three-day solo trip around Mount Rainier. But somehow, despite a heavy pack, trail math struggles, and losing her travel mug to the forest gods, she pulled it off.Consider supporting my fundraising efforts for the Trevor Project: https://give.thetrevorproject.org/JeffATFollow Allison online: https://www.instagram.com/allisonhpowell/In this episode, we break down how a seasoned ultrarunner transitions (read: suffers) into backpacking, what she learned about weight, gear, solo hiking, and bear hangs, and how her view of thru-hiking shifted after 14-hour days of nothing but walking, couscous, and waterfalls. This is an honest, hilarious, and pretty relatable first-time thru-hiker story—and maybe even a cautionary tale.Brought to you by:👕 Janji – for the gear that won’t get you arrested⛺ Garage Grown Gear – for the ultralight life☕ CS Coffee – because walking 30 miles a day is better caffeinatedChapters00:00 Introduction to the Wonderland Trail Adventure05:32 The Challenges of Backpacking Alone11:29 Lessons Learned from the Journey17:11 Navigating the Trail and Overcoming Obstacles23:15 Final Thoughts and Future PlansSubscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.comSupport this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutsideBuy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSFEmail me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.comWatch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outsideWebsite: www.Freeoutside.comInstagram: thefreeoutsidefacebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

What do wildfires, the Arizona desert, and the Oregon Coast have in common? They’ve all tried—and failed—to stop Katie Gunvalson, aka Raven. In this episode, I catch up with Jeffrey Award winner and self-supported FKT crusher Katie after her overall record on the Oregon Coast Trail, where she took the long way and still came out fastest.This is the full-circle redemption arc. Katie first came on the podcast after her PCT FKT was stopped by a wildfire on day one. Since then? She’s failed a few more times (we all have—ask Nick), kept showing up, and finally broke through with one of the coolest FKTs around—one that involves tide timing, beach running, and some major resilience.Consider donating to support the trevor project as I attempt this record https://give.thetrevorproject.org/JeffATWe talk about what it means to chase something hard, to fail publicly, and to come back swinging. Katie shares the real stuff—motivation, self-worth, wanting to compete with the big names at Cocodona (hey Jamil, you listening?), and why this record mattered more than any other.This episode is brought to you by:Janji – for clothing that keeps you stylishly off the FKT doleGarage Grown Gear – for all your weird, ultralight, cottage gear needsMount to Coast – shoes for people who want to look fastCS Coffee – still the only reason I’m coherent todayAnd a reminder: I’m currently out chasing an Appalachian Trail FKT and raising money for The Trevor Project—because using our niche little sport to support people who feel different can actually make a difference. Link in bio to support. Stay elite, my friends. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Award Banter03:00 Setting the Oregon Coast Trail FKT06:01 Navigating Challenges on the Trail08:58 Resupply Strategies and Nutrition12:02 Training for the FKT15:03 Mental Preparation and Overcoming Doubts17:55 The Final Push and Weather Challenges20:57 Crossing the Finish Line23:54 Reflections on Failure and Success26:49 Community Support in FKTs29:48 Future Aspirations and GoalsSubscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.comSupport this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutsideBuy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSFEmail me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.comWatch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outsideWebsite: www.Freeoutside.comInstagram: thefreeoutsidefacebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

When you hear this, I will have started the Appalachian Trail Self Supported FKT attempt. Track it here: https://corsa.run/live/freeoutside/Also, consider donating to the Trevor Project as I try to raise money and make a difference during this record attempt: https://give.thetrevorproject.org/JeffATIn this episode, I sit down (virtually) with the Dictator of FKTs, Allison Mercer, for a last-minute chat about how the heck I got here: from failed FedEx deliveries and lost shoes, to spending $500 shipping food across the eastern seaboard, to testing gear and nutrition in the White Mountains while pretending I still had a home address.We talk about why I chose the AT, why I’m going southbound, why self-supported FKTs are my favorite kind of chaos, and how I’m channeling all my energy into something bigger than myself—raising $10 per mile for The Trevor Project, an organization making a real impact on mental health and LGBTQ+ youth.We also cover:Why I eat Costco pizza for performanceMy obsession with spreadsheetsVisualizing failure so it doesn’t surprise youAnd how rocks in your shoes are the new weighted vestIt’s chaotic, heartfelt, and packed with bad ideas and good intentions. If you want to follow along with my attempt, track me, or donate to the cause, check the show notes or visit my Linktree. And thanks for being part of this wild, weird ride.Now I guess I better go hike 2,200 miles. Like it’s hard.– JeffChapters00:00 Introduction to the FKT Journey00:28 Supporting the Trevor Project00:39 Preparing for the FKT Challenge06:19 The Allure of the Appalachian Trail10:46 Overcoming Hurdles and Challenges13:21 Mental Resilience and Problem Solving18:56 Testing Gear and Nutrition28:40 Fundraising for Mental Health AwarenessSubscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.comSupport this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutsideBuy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSFEmail me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.comWatch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outsideWebsite: www.Freeoutside.comInstagram: thefreeoutsidefacebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

I’m joined by the legend himself—John Kelly—just about a month after his Appalachian Trail FKT attempt. We go deep. Like "0.1 miles felt like a day" kind of deep.Consider donating to support the trevor project as I attempt this record https://give.thetrevorproject.org/JeffATJohn opens up about the logistics, the emotional toll, the storm-soaked first week, and the injury that brought a nearly successful record run to a halt with just 300 miles to go. We get into the mental shifts that come with long efforts, how to manage a massive support team, and how his body literally stopped cooperating.He talks through mistakes made, lessons learned, and whether he’ll ever go back. He also dishes out advice for anyone attempting a self-supported effort (cough like me in less than a week cough) and reflects on what he learned about the trail—and himself.This is a raw and real conversation with someone who’s done more miles than most of us have steps. Thanks for listening. Stay elite, my friends.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Appalachian Trail Attempt02:58 The Journey to the FKT Record06:06 Adapting to the Trail and Body Changes08:51 Planning and Support Dynamics12:07 Challenges Faced on the Trail15:01 The Role of Support Crew17:59 Daily Video Updates and Family Involvement21:06 Emotional Rollercoaster of the Attempt23:52 Reflections on the Experience27:04 Advice for Future Hikers30:07 Final Thoughts and Future PlansSubscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.comSupport this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutsideBuy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSFEmail me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.comWatch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outsideWebsite: www.Freeoutside.comInstagram: thefreeoutsidefacebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

What the Heck Is an FKT? (And Why I'm Living in the Woods for 45 Days)Live from a very cabin-y cabin in Montana, I bring you an episode for everyone wondering, what even is an Appalachian Trail FKT? I’m joined by the queen of Fastest Known Times herself, Allison Mercer, to break it all down. We cover the wild world of FKTs—from how they started, to the different styles (unsupported, self-supported, supported), what’s allowed, what’s not, and how you can go set your own.Whether you’re a longtime endurance nerd or just discovering FKTs, this episode sets the stage for my own upcoming Appalachian Trail FKT attempt. We also wrap up with hot takes on the state of ultrarunning, competition, and keeping the sport weird (but fair).Follow Allison: https://www.instagram.com/onewomandancepartyPresented by:Janji (code: freeoutside) https://janji.com/Garage Grown Gear https://www.garagegrowngear.com/CS Instant Coffee https://www.csinstant.coffee/—because Starbucks VIA is banned from this podcast.Podcast Chapters00:00 – Cabin Life & AT Kickoff02:00 – What the Heck Is an FKT?06:15 – Supported vs. Self-Supported vs. Unsupported11:10 – The History of FKTs15:45 – The Role of FastestKnownTime.com20:00 – How to Plan Your Own FKT25:40 – Style Integrity and FKT Ethics31:00 – Popular FKTs & Famous Examples36:20 – Why FKTs Exploded Post-COVID41:00 – Jeff’s AT Attempt: Style, Strategy, and Why47:10 – Live Coverage, Hidden Content, and Patreon Support52:30 – Opinions on Pacers, Media Gimmicks & Race Culture58:20 – Final Tips & Trail Wisdom01:01:00 – Sponsor Shoutouts & Wrap-UpSubscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.comSupport this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutsideBuy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSFEmail me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.comWatch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outsideWebsite: www.Freeoutside.comInstagram: thefreeoutsidefacebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

Circle of Hell Run (COHR), Chef Boyardee, and Sweat Salt Wisdom with Bryce BrooksI’m joined by the undisputed king of dry-heat suffering, Bryce Brooks. He’s now a three-time champion of the infamous Circle of Hell Run—a 3-hour looped sufferfest in Phoenix held during the hottest part of the hottest day of the year. We dig into exactly how to win a heat race with 200 pounds of ice, salt pills by the fistful, and ice bandana swaps that would make an F1 pit crew jealous.Follow Bryce on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b_ricebrooksWe also dive deep into Bryce’s work behind the scenes at Aravaipa, his thoughts on live-streaming gimmicks vs performance, creative pacer rules, and what's next for the ever-expanding race organization. From blacked-out cars with no AC to ravioli-fueled recoveries, this one is part heat survival guide, part comedy, part ode to the ultrarunning grind. My favorite story is the time met Jamil Coury and Courtney Dauwalter at Cocodona 250! Buckle up. It's a dry heat, but the content is fire.Presented by Janji https://janji.com/Garage Grown Gear https://www.garagegrowngear.com/CS Coffee https://www.csinstant.coffee/Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Circle of Hell Run03:07 Winning Strategies and Crew Dynamics06:04 Race Strategy and Managing Heat08:59 Nutrition and Hydration in Extreme Conditions11:54 The Atmosphere and Community of the Race15:05 Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations24:05 Racing and Content Creation Challenges26:55 Capturing the Highlights of Ultra Races31:02 The Role of Gimmicks in Racing35:44 Jamil's Unique Approach to Racing and Content38:59 Aerovipa's Growth and Event Expansion42:26 Underrated Events and the Crown King Scramble44:41 The Rise of Cocodona and Its Popularity45:20 Cocodona's Rich History and Diverse Biomes46:20 Evolution of the Live Stream Experience47:23 First Encounters and Memorable Moments47:57 The Wild Ride of the First Year48:44 Hitchhiking Adventures and Unexpected Encounters51:31 Post-Race Reflections and Decisions54:54 Transitioning to a New Career Path57:03 Upcoming Races and Future Plans58:48 Crew Dynamics and Race Strategies01:00:39 Debating Pacer Policies in Ultra RacesSubscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.comSupport this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutsideBuy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSFEmail me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.comWatch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outsideWebsite: www.Freeoutside.comInstagram: thefreeoutsidefacebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

For this Appalachian Trail FKT, I realized I have to become one with the thru-hiker. That means mud baths, tarp life, eating with my hands, and yes—training while also working a remote job from the literal woods. This episode is a stitched-together recap of my second big training camp, where I logged over 300 miles and 80,000 feet of vert in the hardest terrain the AT has to offer.I kick things off with a midnight arrival in Bangor and a 2.7-mile walk to my hotel (because, of course, there were no Ubers). From there, it’s all rain, roots, bugs, busted toes, and resupply strategy. I test out nearly every piece of gear I plan to use on the FKT—including my hilariously short sleeping bag and a tarp that may or may not survive the Whites. I hike through mud pits, scale ladders, eat questionable trail food, and rediscover the terrifying beauty of the Kennebec River—the same one I swam across back in 2016 like an idiot.Along the way, I also get an infected toe, limp into urgent care covered in dirt, try not to scare Ivy League joggers with my homeless-looking setup, and wrestle with one of my biggest fears: talking to people in small-town resupply stores.This camp wasn’t about big miles (although I still hit plenty). It was about dialing in the uncomfortable stuff—nutrition, logistics, clothing, sleep strategy, and reminding myself just how hard this trail really is. I’m equal parts confident and scared for August, which probably means I’m right where I need to be.Thanks for listening, supporting, and laughing along with the chaos. Stay elite, my friends.Chapters00:00 Embarking on the Appalachian Trail Journey05:44 Training Camp Insights and Challenges10:27 Navigating the Tough Terrain14:53 Injury and Recovery19:26 Gear and Nutrition Strategies23:09 Final Thoughts and Preparations for the Record Attempt26:44 EE0FAD58-2502-4A21-A3EF-BD29BCCE281E.MP4Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.comSupport this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutsideBuy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSFEmail me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.comWatch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outsideWebsite: www.Freeoutside.comInstagram: thefreeoutsidefacebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

In this solo episode of the Free Outside Show, I dive into something I’ve been thinking about (and living through) for a while—the difference between pro runners and influencers in the trail running world. Who actually drives the sport forward? Who sells the shoes? And where do we go from here?I break down how pros validate performance and products, while influencers excel at storytelling and getting people off the couch. I explore why brands struggle to invest in athlete content and what we need to do better—like athlete-influencer integration, content allowances in contracts, and actually showing the personalities behind the podiums.This episode has hot takes, real examples (no brand shade, I swear), and maybe even a solution to the future of sponsorships in outdoor sports. Whether you're a runner, creator, or just someone trying to figure out how to get that elusive gear deal—this one’s for you.Brought to you by:Garage Grown Gear, CS Instant Coffee, and Janji.comChapters00:00 Runners vs Influencers: An Introduction00:49 Defining Pro Runners and Influencers03:10 The Workload of Pro Runners05:54 The Role of Influencers in Trail Running09:06 Finding the Middle Ground11:57 The Importance of Brand Storytelling14:52 Investing in Athlete Content Creation17:45 Building Trust in the Running CommunitySubscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.comSupport this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutsideBuy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSFEmail me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.comWatch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outsideWebsite: www.Freeoutside.comInstagram: thefreeoutsidefacebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

I’m recording this one live from a hotel room in New Hampshire that sounds like a prison cell and smells like ambition. I’m in the middle of my second training camp for the Appalachian Trail FKT, and things are getting real—mud to the thighs, toe infections, and 11,000-foot gain days kind of real.In this episode, I dive into what a training camp actually looks like when you’re prepping for 40+ days on the trail. I talk through the three pillars I focus on: specificity, recovery, and decision-making. I’ve been testing everything—food, gear, pacing, and even how to manage trail funk when your sleeping bag feels like it was made for a child.I share the strange culture of the AT, including cigarette-smoking thru-hikers, prideful locals, and the absolute chaos that is the Mahoosuc Notch. I’ve also got some gear insights, like why I sent one pair of shorts home and committed to the other, and how I’m planning to eat the same (awful?) things for over a month straight.I’m out here juggling coaching, podcasting, and prepping for the biggest effort of my life—with a laptop and microphone in my backpack, no permanent home, and way too many miles to think clearly. It’s all part of the adventure.Shoutout to Garage Grown Gear, Janji.com (use code freeoutside for a discount of… let’s say somewhere between 0% and 100%), and CS Coffee for supporting this wild journey.Let me know what your favorite high-calorie trail foods are, and maybe I’ll throw them in my pack. Thanks for listening—and as always, stay elite, my friends.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene01:07 Training Camp Insights07:51 Challenges on the Appalachian Trail12:52 Cultural Observations and Trail Experiences16:12 Preparing for the Future

In this episode of The Free Outside Show, I’m diving into something that might sound silly at first—being a fan. Whether it’s the NFL, NBA playoffs, Western States, or obsessively refreshing the live tracker at Cocodona, I argue that being a fan matters. It builds community, creates connection, and honestly, just makes life more fun. So this is a passionate, slightly ranty defense of why you should let yourself care—about your favorite athletes, races, and even trail drama.Along the way, I talk Montana Meltdown (our September race), show off my Janji shorts, and spiral into a few tangents about public lands, nationalism, and the shocking lack of trail running trash talk. This one's for the people who hit refresh on UltraSignup for fun.Also—I might be temporarily homeless by the time this drops. So please like, share, and maybe mail me a tent.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Free Outside Show01:12 In Defense of Being a Fan03:12 The Importance of Community in Sports06:00 Embracing Fandom in Ultra Sports10:16 The Power of Being a Fan12:12 Conclusion and Community EngagementSubscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.comSupport this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutsideBuy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSFEmail me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.comWatch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outsideWebsite: www.Freeoutside.comInstagram: thefreeoutsidefacebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside