Borderlands Trail (+ Ultra) Running
The Heart of Running. Home of the Bad Runners Take, Wolfie's World by Brian Peterson, and more. ---- Hosted by Josh Rosenthal, founder of Borderlands Trail Running.
Post Game Show: Western States 100 - What Will We Remember About 2025 10 Years from Now?
What will we remember about Western States 2025 5 years from now?
How did friends of the podcast do? - Dan Green, Hans Troyer, Emily Hawgood, Jeff Browning, + Ryan Montgomery.
****Aire Libre - What Brought You Here
Whose Going to Win? Pre Western States Race Coverage: Bad Runners Take
Josh Rosenthal and Wolfie dive deep into the upcoming Western States 100.
They discuss the dynamics between established elite runners ('Made Men') and emerging talents ('Associates'), the impact of age on performance, and the significance of prize money in the sport.
The conversation also highlights the competitive landscape of the women's race and the potential for community engagement to shape the future of ultra running.
With insights on key runners like Killian Jornet, Hans, and Dan Green, this episode is a must-listen for ultra running enthusiasts.
(Wylder is now available on iOS +...
Matt Daniels: 10 Minutes with The Nolan Ryan of Trail Running | Pre Western States Commentary
Matt Daniels needs no introduction in the trail world. He's a speedy elite runner with a great career. He's not running Western States 100 but he knows what its like and can bring us insight that few others could.
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
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Jeff Browning: 10 Minutes with the Great Bronco Billy | Pre Western States 2025
Jeff Browning is a legend in ultrarunning even if he stopped running today. At the age of 53, he has an incredible resume of performance and influence in the sport ultra trail running.
But he isn't slowing down or stopping. He's running WSER 2025 planing to compete with the young guys with an eye on the over 50 years old age group record for WSER.
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Ryan Montgomery: 10 Minutes with a Legend in the Making | Pre Western States 2025
Ryan Montgomery is an endurance athlete of layers - a high performer in every facet of life.
Yes, many know him from his triumphant entry into the WSER arena with a 7th place finish in 2023. But Ryan has run races like Badwater, Desert Solstice, + Tahoe 200. Ryan is an endurance runner's endurance runner.
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Paris Fashion Week is for Runners
Sam Lohse joins Josh to talk about Paris Fashion Week and why its important for runners world wide. We understand that the problem here is squarely that this movement is happening at Paris Fashion Week.
We understand that hesitiation with accepting this movement if you're not in it, but hear us out. The only thing more beautiful than the aesthetic is a lot of the people participating in it.
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Chris Severson: 10 Minutes with a non-elite running Western States | pre Western States
Chris Severson is an ER doc, husband, father of many and running Western States 2025.
In this interview we talk about how someone spinning all the plates prepares and thinks about Western States.
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
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Emily Hawgood: Ten Minutes with Zimbabwe's Finest Ultrarunner | Pre Western States 100
Emily Hawgood has been dominating the world's hardest ultramarathons in recent years. She joins a stacked 2025 women's field and joins Josh and Brian for a 10 minute prerace interview.
Photo Credit: Waste of Time and Talent.
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Hans Troyer: 10 Minutes with the Kid himself | Pre Western States 100
It's a big season for the Hans Troyer - a Golden Ticket giving him an entry to WSER and a world class doc called 'The Kid' by Hyperlyte Liquid Performance.
10 Minutes with Hans before the great 2025 WSER.
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
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Hyperlyte Liquid Performance - Leave us a message here on the Hyperlyte Hotline to respond our episodes, ask questions, tell us off, etc.
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Dan Green: 10 Minutes with the Silver Bullet | Pre Western States 100
Dan Green is the Silver Bullet and we sat down with him for 10 minutes to talk nicknames, marshal, pivoting from Black Canyons to Cocodona 250, and more in the lead up into the 2025 running of the Western States 100.
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
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Hyperlyte Liquid Performance - Leave us a message here on the Hyperlyte Hotline to respond our episodes, ask questions, tell us off, etc.
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Hans Troyer/The Kid, WSER Hype, Pure Running at Paris Fashion Week [Bad Runners Take]
Josh Rosenthal and Wolfie discuss the upcoming Western States race, featuring elite athlete interviews, insights into the competition, and a unique connection to Paris Fashion Week.
They explore the human interest aspects of running, the significance of community engagement through the Hyperlite Hotline, and the impact of documentaries like Hans Troyer's on the running culture.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of running beyond just events, celebrating the joy and expression of running itself. The running movement of Paris Fashion Week ironically celebrates this better than any other.
(Wylder is now available on iOS +...
Feed Your Running Dream [Wolfie's World]
Brian discusses the importance of balancing life and running, the new partnership with HyperLyte, and the upcoming athlete interviews for the Western States race.
He emphasizes the significance of feeding the dream and normalizing routines to achieve success in ultra running.
Brian also shares insights on creating a focused environment for training and the need to balance dreams with daily routines.
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
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Hyperlyte Liquid Performance - Leave us a message here on the Hyperlyte Hotline to respond our episodes, ask...
Is Norda 001 the Air Max 1 of running? + Mallrats [Inky Steve]
Manchester's favorite running child, Inky Steve, joins Josh again to was poetic on the intersection of Trail Culture x Sneaker Culture. We also pick a movie to characterize the intersection of the day.
Air Max 1s are iconic and we believe Norda 001s have the same potential to be unchanged for decades to come.
Did Nike know they had a winner from day one? Did Norda?
Time will tell, but there are signs we look for to prove the 001 is already a cult classic along with Air Max 1 + Mallrats.
(Wylder is...
Lydia Oldham | 650km Projecto Portugal, Solo TSP, and How to Savor Big Accomplishments
Lydia Oldham ran across Portugal (5 days, 17 hours) and did a solo TSP from Las Angeles to Las Vegas. Runners like Lydia almost make it look easy so long as you don't pause and contemplate the wild complexity of planning and near-impossible reality of actually executing it physically.
Josh is starting to get the bug.
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
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From 50 Miles to Moab 240 with Kade Wilcox
Kade Wilcox perfectly represents the original audience of Borderlands.
Even the name Borderlands means the land between two places - your daily life and your amobitious ultrarunning goals.
Kade is spinning a ton of plates, paying full price for gear and jumping from his furthest run of 50 miles to 240 miles.
Kade Wilcox is transitioning from 50 miles to Moab 240.Balancing family, work, and training is crucial for ultra runners.Mental toughness is as important as physical training.Visualizing success can enhance performance.Mental reps during training are essential for preparation.(Wylder is now...
Made Men vs the Associates, Haves vs Have Nots, Established vs Disruptors, WSER 2025 Narratives [Wolfie's World]
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
Wolfie lays out the story lines for WSER 2025.
the Made men vs. the Associates. Made men are official, initiated Mafia members with full status, while associates work with the Mafia but lack initiation and privileges.
He's looking at the runners who are made vs. the ones trying to make it.
Kilian Jornet vs. Hans Troyer
Dan Jones vs. Seth Ruhling
Rod Farvard vs. Vincent Bouillard
Adam Peterman vs. Caleb Olson
David Roche vs. David Roche
<...Will Western States Records Fall in 2025? [States Debates]
The male and female course records at Western States are stout.
Will the current course records held by Jim Walmsley (14:09 in 2019) and Courtney Dauwalter (15:29 in 2023) respectively fall during the 2025 running of WSER?
As a fan, we just want a great race regardless of times, but both fields are poised to attack the CRs.
If only one CR falls, whose is most likely to go? Courtney's or Jim's?
Joe Corcione of Everyday Ultra debates Brian Peterson on today's episode.
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
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[Bad Runners Take] Max Jolliffe/Trail Earnhardt, BPN's Backyard, a Dirtbag Race, WSER Hype
In this episode of the Bad Runners Take on the Borderlands Trail and Ultra Running Podcast, Josh + Brian discuss various topics including the evolution of Max Jolliffe's new nickname, reflections on recent dirtbag races, + more.
Max's new nickname: Trail EarnhardtExperiencing a race IRL reignites Josh's passion for the sport.Written training logs enhance reflection and mental clarity.Borderlands' WSER coverage will supplement not replaceHighlighting the sub-24 hour challenge is crucial for engaging fans.BPN's event showcased exceptional hospitality and engagement.Celebrating achievements in running should be prioritized over controversies.(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)<...
[Wolfie's World] Present Challenges Create Your Future Self
In this episode of Wolfie's World, Brian discusses the recent controversies in the trail running community, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the collective strength of the 95.
He explores how to endure pain and suffering during ultra races, highlighting the significance of mental resilience and the concept of the future self.
Brian shares insights on training strategies that build mental toughness and encourages listeners to embrace challenges as part of their journey in ultra running.
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
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Lindsay Dakota | Founder of Naked Sports Innovations
What do Will Goodge, Jim Walmsley, David Roche, Eli Hemming, + Hans Troyer Have in Common? The Naked Running Band.
The Naked Running Band has been a staple on a majority of podiums going on almost 10 years. Why do so many elite athletes wear the Naked Running Band? What so great about it?
Lindsay Dakota of Naked Sports Innovations joins Josh.
BTW, yes, Naked does sponsor various Borderlands endeavors, though this podcast episode is not one of them. After you listen, you'll see why Josh has been wanting to talk to Lindsay on the...
Speedland, Vans, + High Fidelity: Trail Running Shoes x Sneaker Culture
Manchester's own Inky Steve joins Josh to talk about the intersection of trail running shoes and sneaker culture.
It's best couched in a quote from High Fidelity - "What really matters is what you like, not what you are like."
We wear the shoes that we like and most often we choose based on looks. We run in them, we like how they look and thus like how we look. And we run better, whatever that means.
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
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Fair vs Just, the Purpose of Discipline, and Legendary DQs [Wolfie's World]
Walmsley is our of WSER
Aravaipa's actions were fair but were they just?
Discipline given where discipline is needed is a gift to everyone involved.
A brief look at some legendary ultramarathon disqualifications.
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
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Made Men vs. Associates: Western States 100 2025
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
In this conversation, Josh + Brian discuss their ambitious plans for Western States coverage, focusing on unique storytelling and the dynamics between established elite runners (made men) and emerging talents (associates).
They explore the challenges faced by runners balancing day jobs with their passion for ultra running, and the importance of highlighting underappreciated stories within the community.
The discussion also delves into the recent Aravaipa controversy, examining community reactions, the need for transparency, and the existing divide within the ultra running community.
In this conversation...
[WEEKEND EDITION] Hayden Hawks is out of WSER. Why? What about UTMB? [Wolfie's World]
Wolfie's World - Weekend edition. Hayden Hawks is out of WSER. Why is he not racing? Does this impact UTMB? How does that change the race?
Brian explains.
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
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The Race Director Hustle: what do they do?
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
Hamish started Arc Projects and joins Josh to do a deep dive in Q&A form of what Race Directors do. I am certain this will have follow up episodes.
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Salt Lake Footshills Trail Races. Salt Lake City, UT - May 31, 2025
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Call RUNMORE649 (786-667-3649). Leave...
What is the Ultimate Why? [Wolfie's World]
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
In this episode of Wolfie's World, host Brian discusses the importance of consistency in ultra running, upcoming events, and the ongoing debate about prize money in the sport.
He emphasizes the significance of fun in running, encouraging the 95 to remember why they started and to keep the joy alive in their training and racing.
The conversation also touches on community, personal growth, and the need to uplift others within the ultra running community.
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THE 100 MILE DISRUPTOR: Bad Runners Take
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
Dream with us on this Bad Runners Take. We've said that WSER is vulnerable to being dethroned as the American 100 Miler Championship. So what does the premier 100 miler look like? What is necessary to make for it dominate the ultrarunning scene?
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Salt Lake Footshills Trail Races. Salt Lake City, UT - May 31, 2025
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Born to Run author, Chris McDougall - Caballo Blanco, Barefoot Ted, and the Rest of the Gang.
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
Chris McDougall wrote Born to Run and today we get the story straight from him. We hear some updates on the characters from the book and hear some stories behind the stories.
We go beyond just Born to Run though - we talk my life-changing books - Born to Run, My Name is Asher Lev, Catcher in the Rye, and more.
This was a rich conversation that we had in March of 2024. It was such a special conversation that I didn't want it to live in...
Wolfie's World: Pressure of Racing, Gym Bro Ultrarunners, + Balancing Ego
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
In this episode of Wolfie's World, Brian (wolffrunner) discusses the dynamic nature of the Borderlands community, upcoming debates, and the pressures faced by elite runners.
He delves into the concept of ego, consistency, and self-esteem in ultra running, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and the balance of ego within the sport.
Brian encourages listeners to embrace challenges and foster connections, ultimately aiming for personal growth and a stronger community.
Upcoming debates will focus on rivalries in ultra running.Elite racing brings significant pressure and...Bad Runners Take - Cocodona 250 Coverage, Hardrock Gatekeeping, WSER: Mademen vs. the Rest
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
In this episode, Josh + Brian tend to some popular topics in their own unique way.
There's a lot to celebrate about Cocodona 250. Many podcasts have already named those things. In our post-race analysis we look at the coverage and think through how it could be better even with the existing budget.
Karl Meltzer joined us last week and dropped a lot of gold. Too much acutally. We needed this episode to follow up on some of his takes and drill down on them including his take...
10 Ultramarathons I want to Run RIGHT NOW
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
After watching Cocodona, all I want to do is find a race and sign up. These are the races that have been living rent free in my head for a while. One of them will work out and it will be glorious.
1: Salt Lake Foothills Trail Races 2: Ecotrail Paris 3: Palo Duro Trail Run 4: Sörmlands 100 Trail Run 5: Devil's Gulch6: Moab 240 7: Bonneville Backyard Ultra 8: Oman Desert Marathon9: Race Across Scotland10: Badger Trail Races---- Partners ----
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Is Hoka Better for WSER than Nike? Karl Speedgoat Meltzer Joins to Debate.
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
In this episode, the Josh hosts Brian Peterson (Wolfie's World) + Karl Speedgoat Meltzer to dbate about the sponsorship of Western States, focusing on the merits of Nike versus Hoka as potential partners.
This is hypothetical, obviously. We use Nike to make a point - Hoka is missing a lot of opportunities that Nike would not miss.
Ultimately, this feels like less of a debate and more of a discussion around what we need in this sport.
Both sides present compelling arguments, with insights from...
Karl Speedgoat Meltzer Joins the STATES DEBATES: Nike vs. Hoka
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
In this episode, the Josh hosts Brian Peterson (Wolfie's World) + Karl Speedgoat Meltzer to dbate about the sponsorship of Western States, focusing on the merits of Nike versus Hoka as potential partners.
This is hypothetical, obviously. We use Nike to make a point - Hoka is missing a lot of opportunities that Nike would not miss.
Ultimately, this feels like less of a debate and more of a discussion around what we need in this sport.
Both sides present compelling arguments, with insights from...
Big Mountain Trail Running Shoes: Arc'Teryx, La Sportiva, Rossignol
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
Josh and Taylor Bodin (Believe in the Run, Dirt Division) discuss the evolution and innovations of three prominent big mountain brands in the trail running space: La Sportiva, Arc'teryx, and Rossignol.
They explore how these brands, known for their heritage in mountain sports, are adapting their technologies and designs to appeal to the North American market.
The conversation highlights specific shoe models, their performance characteristics, and the brands' strategies for breaking into the competitive trail running market.
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Cocodona Rivalry: Finn Melanson vs Max Jolliffe [Wolfie's World x Bad Runners Take]
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
Cocodona 250 kicks off on May 5 and we're ready but we need a rivalry in this race.
Finn Melanson vs Max Jolliffe - why not?
Wolffrunner makes the case of why Finn vs. Max makes sense -two great 200 miler runners in their prime.
But it goes further than that. Listen for to find out.
Also, a look at Dan Green (Josh's pick for M1, overall 2), Courtney (overall 1), Michael McKnight (the winningest 200 miler to date) and more.
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DFL Before DNF, How to Keep Going, Zion 100 miler
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
Anytime I get to talk about the old DFL Before DNF ethos I think back to my beloved Zion 100 miler and everything I worked through to get the finish.
This is just a few clips from a much longer episode on Let's Run that Again.
Thanks to Michelle and Heidi for hosting me and allowing me use the clips on my podcast. Please check out Let's Run that Again.
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The 35 Episodes we mention.
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Facing Darkness: The Psychology of Ultrarunning + the Goggins Effect [Wolfie's World]
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
Wolfie talks about the 'Goggins effect'—the need to channel inner strength and confront personal insecurities during races.
Ultra running is increasingly seen as a social flex, similar to marathons years ago.Mental preparation is as crucial as physical training for ultra races.Runners must confront their insecurities during 100-mile races.The 'Goggins pill' symbolizes the need for inner strength during tough moments.Many runners may not be physically prepared for the demands of a 100-miler.Adversity in life can prepare runners for the challenges of ultra races....
English Ultrarunning with Inky Steve
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
Josh joined Inky Steve in Manchester, England for run, hair cut, and podcast recording about the soul and spirit of UK running.
This conversation explores the journey of running, from the punk rock spirit that inspires runners to the community support that uplifts them.
The speakers share personal experiences with marathons, the evolution of running shoes, and the impact of COVID on their running journeys.
They discuss the importance of mental toughness, personal goals, and celebrating small victories along the way. In this conversation...
[Soar Running] Serendipity in Running + Design
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
In this episode, Josh interviews Tim Soar, founder of Soar Running, exploring the intersection of fashion and performance in running apparel. Tim shares his journey from a failed fashion label to creating a brand that emphasizes both style and functionality.
The conversation delves into the philosophy of product development, the importance of innovation, and the distinction between luxury and ultra-premium products in the running gear market.
In this conversation, the speaker discusses the evolution of sportswear design, emphasizing the importance of tactile experience, emotional connection, and...
Trail Running is Supposed to Be Messy [Wolfie's World]
(Wylder is now available on iOS + Android.)
Pushed through the lens of the Arizona Monster 300 and the problematic PR around it, Wolfie concludes that trail running is supposed to be messy. These events are hard to put on.
We all forget that Cocodona was not perfect in year one.
Actual runners who are paying the fees don't care much about the controversy and good for them. These events are ultimately about the runners and not the peanut gallery anyways.
The success of events should be measured by runner satisfaction.
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