Buckle Up: An Ultrarunning Conversation

Join me for an inspiring conversation with ultra runner Sierra DeGroff as she shares her journey from Midwest track athlete to seasoned ultra marathoner. Discover her insights on training, race experiences, community, and her unique approach to the sport.

In this episode, Neal Palles, an ultra-running coach and mental health professional, shares insights on integrating mental health, performance psychology, and athletic training. Topics include acceptance commitment therapy, handling DNF experiences, and building mental resilience for endurance sports.

From 450 pounds to running over 100 miles on foot in less than three years—today’s episode is nothing short of extraordinary.

This week, Mandy Mullen and Coach Brian sit down with Josh Lee to unpack his incredible transformation. Josh didn't just change his physical health; he completely revolutionized who he is as a husband, father, and employee. Interestingly, he did it by choosing to be "selfishly" dedicated to his own growth—proving that showing up for yourself is the ultimate prerequisite for showing up for the people you love.

Josh doesn't believe in quick fixes, shortc...

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Marcinek fresh off his incredible finish at the Cocodona 250, where he crossed the line in a staggering 85 hours. We dive deep into Chris’s transition from the Navy to the trails, uncovering the discipline and mental fortitude required to tackle one of the most iconic point-to-point ultramarathons in the country.

From navigating hydration crises to the profound impact of community support, Chris shares the raw, unfiltered reality of running 250 miles through the Arizona desert. Whether you are eyeing your first ultra or are a seasoned multi-day athlete, this conversation is...

With the Cocodona 250 just days away, this episode features a deep dive with Stephanie Rosebaugh. Both Mandy and Steph are heading to the starting line this week, and we explore Steph's unique journey to this monumental race. From navigating the mental battlefield of "backyard" formats to the philosophy behind her memoir, The Power of Enoughness, Stephanie shares how she balances the grit of 200-plus mile races with family life and emotional health.Steph's Fundraiser for Bigger Than The Trail:https://runsignup.com/stephscoco2026Steph's Book Pre-Order:https://books.manuscripts.com/product/the-power-of-enoughness/

Join Coach Brian as we explore the vibrant world of community-building in running, ultra events, and the power of authentic connections. Jason Bahamundi shares insights on grassroots races, supporting fellow athletes, and creating inclusive spaces for all levels.

In this episode of Buckle Up, Coach Brian Passenti is joined by ultra runner Ruairi Moynihan for a raw and honest deep dive into one of the most frustrating injuries for endurance athletes: Haglund’s Deformity.

Whether you call it "pump bump" or just a literal pain in the heel, Haglund’s can derail years of training. Brian and Ruairi are at two very different stages of the process—Brian is currently in the thick of the immediate post-op trenches, while Ruairi is nearly two years out from his own surgery.

They swap stories on the re...

This week on Buckle Up, we have a very special "welcome home" episode. Former co-host Simon Guerard rejoins Coach Brian and Mandy Mullen to recount his epic finish at the Arizona Monster 300.

Three hundred miles is more than just a race; it’s a journey through every physical and mental state a human can experience. Simon pulls back the curtain on the raw reality of the Monster 300, from the blistering heat of Day One to the agonizing injury management that threatened to end his race. Whether you are curious about the logistics of a 300-miler or need a...

What happens when you trade 20 years of trauma nursing stories for 250 miles of desert trail? This week, Coach Brian and Mandy Mullen sit down with Maia Detmer to explore her incredible evolution from a high-stress career in a Las Vegas ER to becoming a powerhouse in the ultra-running community.

Maia opens up about her transition from unhealthy habits to finding her stride in endurance sports at age 30. We dive deep into the "mental poker game" of the Cocodona 250, the hard-earned lessons of sleep deprivation, and how she balances "maintenance miles" with a demanding professional life.

...

This week on Buckle Up, we sit down with a true legend of the trails: Ed Ettinghausen, better known to the community as "The Running Jester." With over 300 hundred-mile finishes and multiple world records to his name, Ed brings a wealth of experience, humor, and heart to the show.

In this episode, we explore the man behind the iconic costumes and the drive required to maintain a staggering goal of hitting 100 miles in every 24-hour race he enters. We dive deep into the evolution of ultrarunning, discussing how race organization, course markings, and safety standards have transformed...

Lace ’em up and grab a handheld, because we are hitting the trails for a heavy-hitting (but light-hearted) Episode 104!

This week on Buckle Up: An Ultrarunning Conversation, Coach Brian and Mandy Mullen are sitting down with the resilient Aaron Nelson. If you’ve ever had a "DNF" (Did Not Finish) burning a hole in your soul or a "Why" that’s bigger than the miles ahead, this conversation is for you.

Aaron is heading back to the start line this May with a serious "redemption" mindset and a heart full of purpose. We’re diving into the...

In this episode of Buckle Up, hosts Coach Brian and Mandy Mullen sit down with ultra-endurance athlete Wesley Smith to explore his incredible transition from the San Francisco running scene to the rugged, high-altitude trails of Mexico. Wesley shares the grit and grace required to tackle the "Tras las huellas del jaguar" 200-miler and offers a front-row seat to the explosive growth of Mexican ultra culture.

Beyond the miles, we dig into the tactical side of performance:

Heat & Humidity: How Wesley adapts his training for extreme environments.

The Mental Game: The specific mantras...

Strap in for a high-energy episode of Buckle Up: An Ultrarunning Conversation! This week, Mandy and Coach Brian are joined by the man, the myth, the legend: Greg Veregin—better known to the community as Greggi off the Seggi.

We’re diving deep into the secret sauce of the ultra-endurance world: the Burrito League. Greg shares his journey from a spark of inspiration in a college classroom to becoming a coach and a pivotal figure in how we experience races through live streaming. This episode isn't just about miles; it's about the connections, the culture, and...

In this engaging interview, Josh Sprague, founder of Orange Mud, shares his journey from frustration with gear to creating innovative products for endurance athletes. Discover how passion, design, and community-driven feedback have shaped a thriving business in the outdoor sports industry.

Welcome back to the show! In today’s episode, Coach Brian and Mandy Mullen sit down for a rapid-fire session with the incredible Dr. Stephanie Howe, PhD. As both a world-class ultra-runner and a registered dietitian with a background in exercise physiology, Stephanie brings a rare blend of elite athletic experience and rigorous scientific expertise to the table.

Throughout this conversation, we explore why nutrition is far from a one-size-fits-all formula, emphasizing the importance of individualized strategies for endurance athletes who all face unique digestive tolerances and performance goals. From navigating the dietary challenges of the holiday se...

In this episode of the Buckle Up Podcast, hosts Mandy Mullen and Coach Brian welcome ultra runner Ben Niebla, who shares his journey from hiking in New Hampshire to becoming an accomplished ultra runner. Benjamin discusses his early experiences with sports, his transition into trail running, and how he found a community that supports and inspires him. He recounts his first ultra race, the challenges he faced, and how he developed a passion for the sport, culminating in his recent participation in the 'Across the Years' race, where he achieved a remarkable 200-mile finish.

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Buckle up! This week, Coach Brian and Mandy Mullen sit down with Chris Avery, a man who went from "accidental runner" to planning one of the most ambitious physical feats we’ve ever heard on the show.

Chris shares the story of how a spur-of-the-moment marathon with zero training ignited a fire that hasn’t gone out since. Now, he’s preparing for his biggest "why" yet: running the entire perimeter of the United States in 2027 with his family by his side.

In this episode, we discuss:

How a "run every day" streak can sh...

In this episode of Buckle Up, Coach Brian and Mandy Mullen sit down with the renowned Dr. Jason Karp to discuss the intersection of sports science, culture, and technology. Dr. Karp takes us through his fascinating journey from a curious student of human anatomy to a leader in the running community.

The conversation dives deep into his time coaching in Kenya, revealing how a culture rooted in community and hard work shapes world-class athletes. Dr. Karp also opens up about his latest innovation, RunKasi, an AI-powered coaching app designed to bring real-time, expert guidance to runners everywhere...

This week, we sit down with Ellie Martinez, the essential "right hand" to our co-host Mandy Mullen. We go behind the scenes to discuss Ellie’s pivotal role at Run.Windsor and what has surprised her most about working in the industry. Plus, Ellie opens up about her lifelong background in sports and draws a fascinating parallel between the patience of hunting and the endurance of ultra running. Thank you for listening—we can't wait to bring you more great content in 2026!

In this conversation, Andrea Moore shares her journey from a corporate banking career to becoming an ultra runner, highlighting the importance of community, personal growth, and the transformative power of outdoor experiences. She discusses her transition during COVID, the joy of exploring new places through running, and offers advice for newcomers to the ultra running scene, emphasizing the significance of curiosity and connection. In this engaging conversation, Mandy Mullen, Andrea Moore, and Brian Passenti explore the themes of adventure, gratitude, and community within the context of ultra running. They discuss the unique experiences of participating in events like Cocodona...

In this episode, we sit down with the man who literally wrote the book on ultra endurance training: Jason Koop. From his new home base in France, Koop discusses his most ambitious project yet—Koop AI.

Described as "his brain in a box," Koop AI represents a massive shift in how technology interacts with athlete development. We dive deep into the philosophy behind the platform, the critical importance of quality control in automated coaching, and how the landscape of ultra running is evolving as the sport explodes in popularity. Whether you’re a data geek or a trad...

In this episode, Coach Brian interviews Josh Coleman, who shares his journey into ultra running, the impact of grief on his life, and how running has become a source of solace and healing after the tragic loss of his wife. Josh discusses his experiences in ultra races, the importance of community, and how writing a book about his journey has helped him process his grief. He also shares insights on the challenges of ultra running and offers advice for those considering entering the sport.

Find Josh here:

https://linktr.ee/joshrunadventures

This week, Mandy Mullen and Coach Brian Passenti sit down with Jes Parker, the founder of the innovative new enterprise, Take2Trail.com

In a sport where gear can be prohibitively expensive and environmental waste is a growing concern, Jes is changing the narrative. We dive deep into her personal journey from accidental runner to Backyard Ultra competitor, and how that path led her to create a mission-driven marketplace for gently used trail running gear.

Whether you are looking to declutter your gear closet, find affordable equipment, or just love a good underdog story, this...

In this episode, Coach Brian and Mandy Mullen engage in a heartfelt conversation with Ron Aladeniyi, an ultra runner who shares his journey to the Leadville 100. They discuss the importance of community, gratitude, and personal growth in the world of ultra running. Ron reflects on his experiences, the challenges he faced, and the joy he finds in the journey rather than just the destination. The conversation highlights the beauty of vulnerability and connection among runners, as well as the role of fear in personal growth. Ron's aspirations for the future and his desire to inspire others through his journey...

In this conversation, Cameron Pearson shares his journey from triathlons to ultra running, highlighting the importance of community, mental strength, and preparation in endurance sports. He discusses his experiences at various races, including Moab and Tahoe, and emphasizes the significance of giving back to the running community through volunteering. Cameron also reflects on his training strategies, family support, and future goals in the ultra running world.

Join us for an incredibly candid and inspiring conversation with Deborah Anderson, a competitive ultra athlete who just secured a phenomenal third-place female overall finish at the grueling Moab 240!

Deborah shares the complete story of her radical transition from a non-runner to an elite endurance competitor, starting at the age of 35. She dives deep into the high-stakes world of ultra running, discussing the intense training adjustments—including a new focus on strength training—she made in the lead-up to Moab.

In this powerful episode, Deborah opens up about the immense mental resilience required for...

Ultra runner Kilian Korth is back for his second appearance on the show (he was last on Ep 74!) to dive deep into the world of extreme endurance. In this episode, Kilian shares candidly about his recent experience at the Moab race, discussing the unexpected challenges he faced, including tough weather conditions and the necessary mental strategies for pushing through.

He highlights the critical role of a support crew, the continuous struggle of nutrition and sleep management during long efforts, and the importance of efficiency at aid stations. Kilian reflects on the inseparable relationship between success and failure...

Get ready for an episode that's part hilarious ultra-running chat, part inspiring community spotlight! Mandy Mullen and Coach Brian sit down with Dan Zolnikov, one of the masterminds behind the now-legendary Taco Bell 50K. What started as a whimsical, slightly absurd challenge among friends has blossomed into an annual grassroots event that raises significant funds for a truly special cause.

Dan takes us on a journey from the race’s simple, chaotic origins to its current status as a Denver running community favorite. We dive into the hilarious (and surprisingly strict) rules of the race, the growth of...

Ultra runner Kilian Korth is back for his second appearance on the show (he was last on Ep 74!) to dive deep into the world of extreme endurance. In this episode, Kilian shares candidly about his recent experience at the Moab race, discussing the unexpected challenges he faced, including tough weather conditions and the necessary mental strategies for pushing through.

He highlights the critical role of a support crew, the continuous struggle of nutrition and sleep management during long efforts, and the importance of efficiency at aid stations. Kilian reflects on the inseparable relationship between success and failure...

Get ready for an episode that's part hilarious ultra-running chat, part inspiring community spotlight! Mandy Mullen and Coach Brian sit down with Dan Zolnikov, one of the masterminds behind the now-legendary Taco Bell 50K. What started as a whimsical, slightly absurd challenge among friends has blossomed into an annual grassroots event that raises significant funds for a truly special cause.

Dan takes us on a journey from the race’s simple, chaotic origins to its current status as a Denver running community favorite. We dive into the hilarious (and surprisingly strict) rules of the race, the growth of...

Buckle Up: An Ultra Running Conversation – Exploring the Ultra Running Community

Hosts Mandy Mullen and Coach Brian are flying solo this week to unpack their latest deep dives into the world of endurance sports. Get ready for an episode full of insights and stories from the heart of the ultra running community!

Join us as we recap key takeaways from the US Trail Running Conference, focusing on the crucial discussions around partnerships, sponsorships, and the ongoing movement for greater inclusion and diversity in the sport.

We share our personal experiences at...

In this engaging conversation, Mark Vega shares his inspiring journey from a life-altering motorcycle accident and two strokes to becoming a passionate ultra runner. He discusses the transformative power of running, the importance of community support, and his emotional experiences during his first marathon. Mark emphasizes that it's never too late to pursue one's passions, especially for those over 60. He also shares his love for adventure motorcycling and caring for snakes, highlighting the joys of life beyond running. The podcast aims to inspire older athletes to continue challenging themselves and embracing life.

This week, join Coach Brian and Mandy Mullen as they dive into the wild world of ultra running with special guest Paul James Johnson! Get ready for a thrilling ride as Paul shares his incredible journey from marathons to tackling epic 200-mile races.

Ever wonder what it's like to run for days with little to no sleep? Paul spills the beans on the sleep deprivation, mental challenges, and the surprisingly irrational thoughts that pop up during these grueling events. But it's not all suffering! Paul also reveals how community support and a little help from his family...

Join coaches Brian and Mandy Mullen as they sit down with ultra runner Andrew Kelly to dive deep into his incredible journey. In this episode, Andrew shares how he went from a daily running streak of nearly 2,000 days to conquering some of the world's most challenging races, including the Badwater 135.

Discover how sobriety profoundly impacted his performance and mental health, and hear his unique perspective on the differences between the ultra running communities in the UK and the US. Andrew also opens up about his personal training regimen, the importance of community support, and his ambitious plans...

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Tonya Olson, a physical therapist and expert on ultra running foot care. She dives deep into why proactive foot health is a non-negotiable for ultra runners, not just a post-race afterthought.

Dr. Olson shares crucial insights on preventative care, common foot issues, and the absolute necessity of a dedicated foot care kit. She explains how a little knowledge about your feet and the right products can make or break a race. We also tackle the surprising lack of education around foot care in the ultra running community...

Get ready for a deep dive into the world of endurance sports photography on this episode of Buckle Up: An Ultrarunning Conversation. With cohost Mandy still busy cleaning up cones, we're thrilled to welcome guest host Jeff Iosa to join Coach Brian.

This week, Brian and Jeff sit down with renowned ultra-running photographer Anastasia Wilde. Anastasia shares her incredible journey, from a traditional photography career to becoming a leading figure in the ultra-running space. She offers a unique look at the challenges and rewards of capturing athletes' stories in some of the most remote and demanding locations...

In this episode of Buckle Up, Rachel Downey shares her inspiring journey into ultra running, detailing her experience at the Leadville Trail 100. She discusses overcoming significant health challenges, the importance of support from crew and pacers, and her strategies for nutrition and hydration during the race. Rachel reflects on the emotional aspects of race day, her mental resilience during night running, and her future plans in the sport.

Coach Brian and Mandy Mullen welcome ultra-runner Jordan Moon to this episode of Buckle Up. They discuss all things running, from tackling the grueling Leadville Trail 100 to Jordan's remarkable journey of running across America.

Hear how Jordan pushes his own limits and builds the mental resilience and perseverance needed to go the distance. They also get into the vital role of family support, the challenges of intense training, and the emotional highs and lows that come with endurance sports.

Whether you're an experienced runner or just starting out, this episode will inspire you to set...

Join Coach Brian and Mandy Mullen for a powerful conversation with ultrarunner Kendra Kettelhut. In this episode, Kendra opens up about her incredible journey to the legendary Leadville Trail 100, sharing how this challenging race has become her "second home."

You'll hear Kendra's honest reflections on the pivotal role sobriety and personal growth have played in her running. She dives deep into the magic of the Leadville community, the importance of acclimatizing to the high altitude, and the strategies she's honed for race day. Kendra also shares her perspective on the transformative power of a supportive community and...

Join Coach Brian and Jonathan Levitt, host of the popular podcast "For The Long Run," for a deep dive into the dynamic world of trail running and endurance sports. In this insightful conversation, they explore the remarkable evolution of the outdoor industry, Jonathan's unique career path, and the powerful role of community in shaping the sport.

From the history of iconic events like the Leadville race to the rise of professionalization, this episode uncovers the trends that are driving the future of endurance. They discuss the vital connection between athletes and brands, the importance...