Free Outside

I’m alive in Bangor, Maine — a sentence that somehow feels like the opening line of a novel. In this episode of the Free Outside Show, I walk you through my chaotic arrival to the start of my Appalachian Trail FKT training camp, including a 1 a.m. walk from the airport (no Ubers in Bangor, apparently) and my deep dive into specificity. I’m testing everything: my exact 7,000-calorie-per-day nutrition, gear kit, FKT pacing strategy, and resupply logistics — all in the hardest section of the trail.I also talk about working on the road, training smart, respecting the difficulty of the White Mountains, and building the blueprint for a successful AT attempt. Plus: some sponsor shoutouts to Garage Grown Gear, CS Instant Coffee, and Janji (yes, I am currently dressed head-to-toe in Janji gear — including the pockets I’ll be eating out of for the next 40+ days).Want to support the mission? Check out patreon.com/freeoutside — and until next time, stay elite, my friends.Sound Bites"I just went to Tim Hortons.""I got from Garage Grown Gear.""Life's pretty crazy, you know?"Chapters00:00 Journey to Bangor, Maine03:22 Training for the Appalachian Trail10:27 Preparation and Gear for the TrailSubscribe 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

Today on The Free Outside Podcast, I’m joined by the legendary Cam Hanes—bowhunter, ultrarunner, lifter of heavy things, and yes, friend of Joe Rogan. We dive into everything from Courtney Dauwalter’s mountain mindset to how Disneyland became a tactical hunting joke with a laser pointer (thanks, Joe).Cam shares his thoughts on the growing influencer side of trail running, Western States carnage, public lands politics, and what he really thinks about ultrarunning's obsession with science and splits. We talk about grit, quitting, suffering, and why lifting weights is somehow less cool than ultrarunning. Plus: what hunters and trail runners can learn from each other, and why Cam still calls himself an outsider in this space.If you're into raw takes, wild stories, and the occasional Keep Hoeing joke—this one’s for you. From the Taylor Swift of Ultrarunning, meet Cam Hanes!🎙️ Sponsor Support:☕ CS Coffee – Instant coffee that actually tastes good.🎒 Garage Grown Gear – The best ultralight gear and small outdoor brands, all in one place.👕 Janji – Adventure-ready running apparel. Use code FREEOUTSIDE for 10% off!🎧 Episode Chapters00:00 – Cam Hanes Intro02:30 – Small Town Ties05:00 – First Ultra Story08:20 – Ranking Communities11:30 – Courtney Dauwalter Talk14:00 – Love the Process18:00 – Cocodona Doubts22:00 – Crew Tricks & COVID25:30 – Public Lands Rant30:30 – Rogan Disneyland Story34:00 – Quitting vs Grit41:00 – Jeff’s AT Record Goal46:00 – Western States Opinions53:00 – Hunting Misconceptions55:45 – Final Thoughts & GoodbyesSubscribe 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

This week on the Free Outside Podcast, I'm joined by repeat guest and newly crowned Lavaredo 120K podium finisher Alyssa Clark. We talk all things Lavaredo—what makes this epic European race special (aside from the 11 PM start and absurd elevation gain), how she ran within striking distance of Courtney Dauwalter, and how pink hair and frogs helped her stay grounded mid-race.But that’s just the start.Alyssa opens up about the team she’s built around her—nutritionist, mental coach, agent, husband, and even the cats. We go deep on how her mental game has evolved, why she talks to frogs mid-ultra, and how rewriting internal narratives (with the help of a herd of mental sheep) has changed everything.We also dig into where the sport is heading—development pipelines, the blurry line between influencers and athletes, why agents matter, and how media obligations are shifting as trail running professionalizes.If you’ve ever wanted to hear two runners talk about therapy, shoes, mentorship, contracts, and night running tunnel vision all in one episode, this is your jam.Chapters00:00 Exploring Lava-Eido: A Unique Race Experience02:50 Race Day Strategies: Preparing for a Night Start05:48 The Influence of Competition: Running Against the Best09:10 Race Planning: Balancing Goals and Performance11:59 Building a Support Team: The Importance of Collaboration14:53 Nutrition Strategies: Tailoring Fuel for Performance17:46 Mental Resilience: Strategies for Self-Compassion20:56 Embracing Identity: Overcoming Past Challenges23:55 Mindfulness in Racing: Staying Present26:46 Training for Mental Toughness: The Role of Discomfort29:48 The Future of Ultra Running: Evolving Support Systems32:14 The Mental Game in Ultra Running34:01 Breaking Into the Sport: Challenges and Opportunities36:19 The Importance of Mentorship and Development in Ultra Running38:32 Respecting the Elders: Learning from Experience40:04 Navigating the Influencer vs. Professional Athlete Landscape44:35 The Role of Brands in Athlete Development52:20 Building Confidence in Uphill Running55:31 The Role of Agents in an Athlete's Career58:08 Media Obligations and Athlete Performance☕ CS Coffee – Instant coffee that doesn’t suck. Whether you’re climbing through the Italian Alps or just trying to function before your morning run, CS Coffee brews a legit cup in seconds. No gear, no cleanup, just vibes. 🎒 Garage Grown Gear – The best place to discover small, ultralight, and innovative outdoor brands. From niche ultrarunning gear to thru-hiker favorites, they’ve curated the stuff that actually works (and isn’t made by some giant faceless corporation). Shop small, run far.👕 Janji – Running apparel that performs on big climbs and looks good during your post-race meltdown. Their gear is built for adventures, designed with global inspiration, and supports clean water initiatives. Use code FREEOUTSIDE for 10% off your order and help support the podcast!Subscribe 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

Western States 100 needed an awards show—so we made one. I’m joined by Allison Mercer for the first-ever Westees, a highly serious, extremely prestigious, and entirely made-up award show for the 2025 Western States 100.We hand out awards like:BDE: Big Dad Energy Michigan "Bluff" Award (for premature blowupsScuba Steve AwardI’m Not Back, I’m Better AwardThe Cougar of the FieldThe Zach Miller Lookalike Award...and of course, Jeff of the DayWe also break down the biggest performances, the carnage, the drama, the livestream chaos, trail fashion disasters, questionable pacing decisions, and how Killian somehow still looks fresh after 100 miles.If you like trail running, roasting, fashion critiques, or just hearing someone talk trash about professional runners while wearing Janji shorts—this episode is for youJanji – The best running shorts in the game (and yes, I’m literally wearing them right now).Use code freeoutside for a discount.👉 janji.comGarageGrownGear.comCSinstant.coffeeMontana Meltdown – Our very own fixed-time race in Bozeman, Montana. 4, 12, and 24-hour options on a beautiful loop course.👉 Sign up on UltraSignup – just search Montana Meltdown Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Westees Awards06:08 The Women's Race Highlights11:58 The Men's Race Highlights21:45 Awards and Recognitions28:55 Reflections on Performance and Training30:25 Celebrating Chris Myers and Brooks' Impact33:05 The Performance of Hoka and Unsponsored Athletes39:24 Mo Money, Mo Problems: The Pressure of Sponsorships42:53 The Rise of Women in Ultra Running47:00 The Need for Better Storytelling in Ultra Running51:58 Age is Just a Number: Inspiring Performances54:58 Consistency and Experience: The Legacy of Jeff Browning55:57 Hans and His Journey01:00:00 Sponsorships and Their Impact01:05:00 Awards and Recognition01:10:03 FKTs and Trail Challenges01:15:07 Reflections on the Appalachian TrailSubscribe 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

Western States may be the most iconic race in ultrarunning—but it also comes with carnage, heartbreak, and a pile of DNS and DNF drama. In this episode, I’m joined by the always-entertaining Allison Mercer (of FastestKnownTime.com) to break down the storylines, the runners who didn’t make it to the start line, and wild ideas to spice up the sport (spoiler: mile-seeding starts for elites?).We also dive into the FKT world—John Kelly’s latest madness, what’s changing in the scene, and why FKTs still matter. Plus, I give a quick life update because I’m moving out, living out of a storage unit, and heading out for an Appalachian Trail FKT attempt.Big thanks to our sponsors:🩳 Janji – Great sun hoodies, shorts, and gear. Use code freeoutside for a discount (let me know what you get!).☕ CS Instant Coffee – Freeze-dried and trail ready.🎒 Garage Grown Gear – Your one-stop shop for small-business adventure supplies.Share the episode, leave a review, and help support the chaos. Stay elite, my friends.Chapters00:00 In Memoriam: The Unbreakable List02:05 The Impact of Social Media on Performance04:58 The Women's Field: Intriguing Storylines07:46 The Men's Field: A New Dynamic10:48 The Role of Coaches and Competitors13:54 Heat Training and Its Influence16:54 Predictions for the Race19:53 The Unsung Heroes of Coverage22:41 Final Thoughts and Predictions33:32 The Rising Stars of Trail Running34:47 Analyzing the Men's Field Dynamics37:13 Des Linden: The Most Valuable Pacer40:26 Women Transitioning from Road to Trail42:28 The Importance of Recovery in Ultra Running48:50 The Impact of Social Media on Athletes53:02 John Kelly's FKT Attempt: A Community EffortSubscribe 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 just ran the Bighorn 100—no pacers, no headphones, and absolutely no planning. In this episode, I share the full breakdown of how I tackled Wyoming’s classic 100-miler while juggling life stress, sleep deprivation, and a recent pacing stint on the Pacific Crest Trail. From garbage bag drop bags to a ramen-fueled revival at mile 48, this race was anything but conventional.I talk about the wildflowers, the relentless climbs, the raw and rugged vibe of the race, and why I chose to run it in the middle of prepping for my Appalachian Trail FKT attempt. I also dive into the mental side of ultrarunning—what it means to finish, to recalibrate goals mid-race, and to stop caring about optics when you’re throwing up on the side of a mountain.This is a race recap, a therapy session, and a reality check all rolled into one. Whether you're training for a 100 or just want to hear how I managed to survive a race with no taper, a busted ankle, and two weeks of pacing fatigue, this one’s for you.Use code FREEOUTSIDE at Janji.com for sweet gear and check out Garage Grown Gear and CS Instant Coffee to support the show. And if you're feeling generous—or just entertained—drop a five-star review, join the Patreon, or send me a nice email at jeff@freeoutside.com.Let’s get into it.Subscribe 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/freeoutsideChapters00:00 Introduction and Recent Adventures01:54 The Big Horn 100 Experience12:02 Challenges Faced During the Race17:51 Lessons Learned and Reflections25:07 Looking Ahead to Future Goals

In this brutally honest solo episode, I unpack what’s been the most stressful month of my life—losing my apartment, unresolved medical issues, financial pressure, and trying to prep for a 100-miler I haven’t even packed for. Oh yeah, and I’m attempting a self-supported Appalachian Trail FKT in less than a month. No big deal.But it’s not all chaos. I reflect on the finite nature of miles, what "best" really means, and why shared suffering for the wrong reasons is never worth it. I read from Mike Versteeg’s powerful Colorado Trail FKT post and explore how ego, purpose, and community collide in our outdoor pursuits. If you've ever questioned the "why" behind your adventures—or what you’re asking others to carry for your dreams—this one’s worth a listen.Mike Versteeg's Colorado Trail: https://satisfyrunning.com/blogs/possessed/colorado-trail-fkt-field-notesChapters00:00 Navigating Life's Challenges01:30 The Finite Nature of Miles06:08 Lessons from Failure and Community09:44 Embracing Adventure Amidst Uncertainty

On this episode of the Free Outside Podcast, I’m joined by coach, ultra runner, and creator Justin Andreas—aka Running in Stash. We talk about his wild transformation from jacked military bodybuilder to golden hour 100-miler finisher and trail coach. We dive deep into his life in Alaska, where training includes moose dodging, sub-zero treadmill marathons, and running in negative 49 degrees… in a singlet.We cover everything from his Bighorn 100 tips (mud. lots of mud.) to racing in sandals, brushing teeth mid-ultra, taper meltdowns, and why the golden hour might be the most inspiring part of the sport. We even dish out spicy takes on Spring Energy, toothbrush resets, and how coaching is more about emotional support than the perfect workout.Whether you're a mid-pack legend or an aspiring 200-mile cowboy, this episode brings wisdom, laughs, and plenty of stories from the far north. Also, stay for Justin’s mantra: “Don’t be a hero in the first half. Don’t be a b*tch in the second.”Chapters00:00 From Bodybuilding to Ultra Running: A Journey of Transformation02:59 Preparing for the Bighorn 100: Insights and Experiences05:58 The Unique Culture of Ultra Running: Community and Support08:50 Training in Extreme Conditions: The Alaska Experience11:57 Wildlife Encounters: Running with Nature's Challenges15:01 The Golden Hour: Celebrating Every Finish18:05 Learning from Experience: Coaching and Personal Growth20:55 Mindset Matters: Mantras and Mental Resilience29:57 Running Rituals and Playful Competition30:56 The Joy of Running in Sandals32:49 Camaraderie in Racing33:22 Physical Fitness Tests in the Air Force34:33 Lessons from Nutrition Mistakes38:00 The Magic of Teeth Brushing During Races40:31 Embracing the Taper44:47 The Freedom of Trail Running48:33 The Value of Having a Coach51:37 Excitement for Upcoming 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

In this solo episode of the Free Outside Podcast, I dive into a topic that every endurance athlete eventually wrestles with: What’s your why?I unpack what it really means to chase big goals in the era of social media, external validation, and highlight reels. From the pressure of performance posts to the value of community and joy in the moment, this is an unfiltered look at what keeps us coming back to these wild endurance events—even when nobody's watching.Topics include:-Why social media can distort your motivation-The difference between intrinsic and extrinsic goals-Lessons from my worst FKTs and best trail moments-The underrated power of fun, struggle, and shared experience-Why Cocodona doesn’t “make” anyone—and why you do-Encouragement for media, volunteers, and the mid-pack majority-And how the ultra/trail community is more diverse than it looksWhether you're a front-runner, back-of-the-packer, or just love long miles, this episode is a reminder to step back and ask: Why am I really doing this?Chapters00:00 Exploring the Intrinsic Why06:58 The Three Pillars of Motivation10:12 The Role of Community in Endurance SportsSubscribe 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

Kate Pallardy joins the Free Outside Podcast to talk about longevity in ultrarunning, balancing motherhood with elite racing, and how her mindset has evolved over the years. From 100-mile podiums to navigating the chaos of parenting and training, Kate shares how she’s learned to stay present, resilient, and grounded—even when everything feels out of control.We dive into:-The reality of training with toddlers and unpredictability-How mindset work and self-awareness changed her racing-What she learned from big DNFs—and big wins-Recovery, sleep, and why less can be more-And her unique approach to nutrition and fuelingThis one’s honest, inspiring, and packed with hard-earned wisdom from one of the most thoughtful voices in the sport.Follow Kate online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katepallardyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuOTtH5LZojo8uZ-hmuosCgSubscribe 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/freeoutsideChapters00:00 Introduction to Kate Palardy03:05 The Unique Challenge of 100-Mile Races05:54 Pacing and Shared Experiences in Ultra Running08:56 Transitioning from Triathlons to Ultra Running11:51 The Joy of Simplicity in Ultra Running15:00 Training Differences: Marathons vs. 100-Mile Races17:56 Life Hacks for Running with Kids20:54 How Family Life Influences Training23:57 The Journey to Becoming a Pro Triathlete27:02 The Process of Earning a Pro Card33:40 The Evolution of Triathlon35:02 Rediscovering the Joy of Racing36:57 Family Dynamics and Racing40:22 Balancing Family and Athletic Goals43:33 The Journey of Motherhood and Running51:06 A Life-Changing 27-Mile Run59:34 Finding Purpose in Running