Happy Trails Podcast

In this episode, Benny shares an in-depth recount of his Badwater 135 experience, highlighting the physical and mental challenges faced during the race, pacing strategies, crew coordination, and lessons learned from pushing through extreme conditions.

In this episode, Benny shares his intense experience during a challenging race, highlighting the physical and mental hurdles faced, the importance of team support, and lessons learned from pushing through extreme fatigue and pain.

Enjoy!

Follow:

Benny: https://www.instagram.com/bennycoubs_ultrarunner/
The Pod: https://www.instagram.com/happytrailspod/

Join us as Ashley Paulson shares her incredible journey from triathlon to ultra running, including her record-breaking Badwater and trail achievements.

We have a fun chat about her mindset, training philosophy, and how she finds joy in the toughest races.

Join us as Ashley shares her incredible journey through ultrarunning, race strategies, crew importance, and her upcoming races. Discover practical tips, surprising race experiences, and her passion for pushing limits.

Find Ash at: Instagram

Happy Trails! 

After a couple of weeks away from the Mics, Benny and Mitch catch up on Bennys training and the lead up to BW135. 

Benny shares an in-depth update on his training progress, heat adaptation strategies, and race preparations for the upcoming Bad Water 135. We also discuss recent races, heat training techniques, and insights into ultra running culture.

Enjoy! 

In this inspiring interview, Patrick Yalon shares his remarkable journey of recovery after a severe surfing accident that left him paralysed.

Discover how mindset, resilience, and gratitude fueled his comeback to ultra running and life. Join us as Pat shares his incredible journey of recovery, ultra-running achievements, and inspiring others to overcome life's toughest challenges. Discover how resilience, faith, and determination can transform setbacks into comebacks.

Follow Pat at https://www.instagram.com/bodiezepha415/

Hope you enjoy! 

Join us as we delve into the recent Cocodona 250 race

We jump on with fellow Podcaster Angus McPherson from the Long Run Podcast on his ultra-running journey, race strategies, and lessons learned from extreme heat conditions.

We also analyze the race results, social media buzz, and future race plans. This episode features a deep discussion on ultramarathon racing, focusing on recent race performances, athlete strategies, and the evolving landscape of 200-mile races. The hosts analyze race tactics, athlete conditioning, and the potential future of the sport, including the idea of a 'golden ticket' race system.<...

Join us as we explore the upcoming Cocodona 250 mile race in Arizona, featuring insights into the course, top contenders, and race strategies. We discuss the evolution of ultra running, key athletes, and how to follow this epic event live.

Fantasy pics: https://fantasy.freetrail.com/leagues/join/f7b101105a

Hope you enjoy! 

In this episode, Benn and Mitch discuss recent results, training strategies, shoe technology, and insights into ultra running and racing tactics. 

We get an update from Benny on his training leading into UTA and of course the big races later in the year and listen to Mitch winge about his foot again. 

Enjoy! 

In this episode, ultra endurance athlete Tim Kasperczak shares his incredible journey through the Hardcore Harry's challenge, exploring the physical and mental resilience required for ultra running.

Discover insights on training, mindset, family support, and lessons learned from pushing human limits. In this engaging conversation, Tim shares insights on mental discipline, training strategies, and the importance of trust in the body for ultra running. He discusses his journey, upcoming challenges, and the role of team dynamics and mindset in pushing limits.

Tims Insta: https://www.instagram.com/timk_endurance/

Hope you enjoy! 

One on one chat with Benny and Mitch today with a focus on Bennys training in the lead up to BW135, some race results and a good yarn about shoes! .

Enjoy! 

In this episode of the Happy Trails Podcast, Ricky Wales shares his journey to becoming an ultra runner and crew chief/master!

He discusses his experiences at various races, including C2K and the Arizona Monster, and reflects on the evolution of his crewing skills. Ricky emphasizes the importance of being proactive as a crew member, managing supplies effectively, and the challenges faced during long races. He also shares insights on training, injury management, and his aspirations for future races, highlighting the supportive community within the ultra running world.

It was a great chat with...

In this episode of the Happy Trails Podcast, the lads interview Linda Stamborough, a passionate trail runner who shares her journey into the world of ultra running.

Linda reflects on her experiences with various races, including the challenging CCC and Tarawera events. Throughout the conversation, she discusses the physical and mental challenges faced during these races, the importance of mindset, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with pushing one's limits. Linda's story is one of resilience, determination, and the joy of running, even in the face of adversity.

This is a ripping chat with a...

Welcome back! 

Shorts one today to chat about Benny's entry into Badwater 135! Benny gives a run down of the race, plans on races to get there and an update on how he is tracking. 

As mentioned below is the link to Bennys Go Fund Me Page and any help is appreciated! 

Go Fund me Link:  Dashboard - GoFundMe 

Also, if there are any businesses that are interested in finding more out about a sponsorship for Benny please reach out on Insta. 

...

The lads chat with Ben Bailey about all things ultra including his past sporting endeavors, some amazing races in both Australia and around the world.

This one was a long time coming with 2 separate record to get it to your ear holes although we hope it is worth the wait. 

Please enjoy! 

Happy Trails 

In this episode of the Happy Trails podcast, hosts discuss the exciting news about benny getting into BW135 the upcoming , the challenges it presents, and the preparation required. They delve into the race format, the harsh conditions expected, and the importance of nutrition and crew strategies. 

The conversation also touches on recent race highlights, including DNF rates and the impressive debut of Molly Seidel in ultra running. The hosts emphasize the community support surrounding these events and the excitement of upcoming races.

Being the bloke from Newy to take on the Yanks on their home t...

In this episode of the Happy Trails podcast, host discusses with Sean Kaesler, a prominent race director, about the intricacies of organizing ultra marathons, particularly the Delirious West 200-mile race. They delve into the importance of community and volunteer involvement, personal experiences in ultra running, and the challenges of race directing. 

Sean shares insights on balancing family life with his responsibilities in the ultra running community, the evolution of the Ultra Series, and the unique aspects of the Delirious West race, including its course and innovative features. The conversation highlights the camaraderie and connections formed within the u...

In this episode of the HappyTrails Podcast, Benny and Mitch touch on training updates before diving into the recent Trail Runner of the Year awardsThe lads recap some of the amazing performances from the TROY winners for both male and femaleThe conversation then shifts to plans for 2026 including training and race plans including Six Foot Track, UTA and then begin the conversation around what the big goal will be for Bennys return to the 200+ mile scene. Finally capping the episode by the Grumpy Trail Runner and his thoughts on crown hunting clowns. 

Enjoy! 

A bit of a wrap up episode this week on the Happy Trails podcast. 

We have had such a great year recording 25 podcasts, meeting some amazing new people, hearing some great stories and having some great fun at some big events ourselves

Today we discuss some of the personal highlights and performances that have jumped out to us as being amazing. 

We look toward 2026 with some vague goals and cant wait to see what the amazing people in this community getup to next year. 

Thanks so much for listening and remember...... Its...

In this episode of the Happy Trails podcast, Tim Woods shares his journey from a casual runner to an accomplished ultra marathoner. 

He discusses his experiences in various races, including Coast 2 Kosci, Buffalo Stampede, and the challenging Grampians race. Tim emphasizes the importance of mental resilience, nutrition, and balancing family life with his passion for running. 

Tim discusses his experiences with endurance racing, focusing on nutrition strategies, the impact of caffeine, pacing consistency, mental strategies for overcoming challenges, and the weather conditions faced during races. He also shares his future goals and upcoming races, emphasizing th...

In this episode of the Happy Trails Podcast, Liv Compton shares her journey in ultra running, focusing on her experiences at the Coast 2 Kosci race a couple of weeks ago.

Liv discusses growing up in Norway, her background in sports, her training methods, and the importance of community in her running journey.

She reflects on her race strategies, nutrition, and the challenges faced during ultra marathons. Liv emphasizes the significance of personal goals and the camaraderie among runners, making for an engaging and insightful conversation about the world of ultra running. In this engaging conversation...

In this episode of the Happy Trails Podcast, hosts Ben and Mitch, along with guest Nikita, dive into a comprehensive recap of their adventures at this years running of Coast to Kosci . 

They explore the unique perspectives of both runners and crew members, discussing the challenges faced during the race, the importance of mental resilience, and the supportive community that surrounds ultra running. 

The conversation highlights standout performances, logistical challenges, and personal reflections on the race experience, emphasizing the journey of ultra running as a shared adventure rather than just a competition. 

This is...

In this conversation, we run through some final thoughts from Moab and some listener questions closing the loop on an amazing result from Benny. 

We touch on some results overseas and shout out an amazing result from Holly Ranson at the 24 hour worlds. 

Finally we shift focus too the upcoming Coast to Kosci where Mitch is in the final stages of the prep. 

In this episode, the Benny and the crew dive deep into the experiences of Bennys achievement at Moab 240 post-race. 

The conversation explores the physical and mental challenges faced during a grueling 240-mile race, the importance of crew support, nutrition strategies, and the beauty of the course. They chat about the emotional highs and lows of the race, the camaraderie among runners, and the lessons learned from the experience. In this episode, they recount their experiences during the Moab 240 ultramarathon, highlighting the challenges faced, the importance of pacing, and the emotional journey of pushing through physical and mental b...

In this episode of the Happy Trails podcast, the lads welcomes Jason Limberiou, known as the Grumpy Trail Runner. 

The conversation explores Jason's journey into trail running, his experiences with injuries, and the supportive Newcastle running community. They discuss memorable races, including the Ultra Trail Kosci and the Trail du Saint-Jaques in France, and the unique challenges of international races. The importance of mental resilience and community support in overcoming challenges in trail running is emphasized, along with humorous insights from Jason's perspective as the Grumpy Trail Runner.

Grumpy gets the shits with Strava uploads a...

In this episode of the Happy Trails podcast, the team discusses their upcoming adventure to Moab, sharing insights on training, race preparation, and the importance of crew support.

They delve into the challenges of ultra running, including nutrition, mental health, and the dynamics of teamwork. With excitement building for the race, the crew reflects on their experiences and strategies, emphasizing the journey as much as the destination.

Almost time to ROCK AND ROLL! 

Benny Insta: https://www.instagram.com/bennycoubs_ultrarunner/
Pod Insta: https://www.instagram.com/happytrailspod/
Nicole Insta for M...

In this episode, the lads Chat with Michael lough and his experiences of running at the TDS, exploring the highs and lows of the journey, the importance of preparation, nutrition, and mindset, and the unique challenges faced during the race.

The conversation highlights the excitement of the start line, the significance of aid stations, and the mental game required to conquer such an endurance event. In this engaging conversation, the participants delve into the challenges and triumphs of ultra running, particularly focusing on the experiences of Loughy during a grueling race.

They discuss the physical...

In this episode of the HappyTrails podcast, Mitch and Benny share training updates as they prepare for upcoming races, reflect on 6 foot track s, and delve into the concerning issue of drug cheating in sports. 

The conversation highlights the importance of mental preparation, training strategies, and the impact of recent events on the running community. the lads chat about the ongoing issues of doping in athletics, particularly focusing on the Kenyan running scene. They explore the implications of drug use on young athletes, the need for better drug testing protocols in trail running, especially in UTMB and o...

In this episode of the Happy Trails Podcast, hosts Mitch Benny welcome podiatrist Blake Withers to discuss his journey as a runner and the importance of podiatry in injury prevention. 

They explore the impact of physical activity on mental health, share experiences from major marathons, and delve into the evolution of running shoes. The conversation also highlights the significance of understanding training loads, the science behind running injuries, and the benefits of multi-directional sports for youth. 

In this engaging conversation, the lads get into the importance of physical activity for youth development, the role of st...

In this episode of the Happy Trails Podcast, hosts Benny and Mitch dive into a mix of topics including UTMB Races, touching on some key contenders and some Aussies making the journey.

They have a brief recap of Ironwood 24 hour, touch on the comeback from David Roche and his epic run at Leadville and geta visit from the crew chief for Moab.

Upcoming UTMB Freetrail Fantasy:  https://fantasy.freetrail.com/leagues/join/c4802453df

Follow the Pod: Instagram
 
Enjoy! 

In this episode of the Happy Trails Podcast, the boys head back to the pub to chat shit about running, they discuss a number of topics including their recent training updates, insights on speed sessions, and the importance of Zone 2 training. 

They also delve into upcoming races, particularly the Moab, and analyse the performance key threat to MOAB glory like Killian Korth. The conversation touches on the need for drug testing in the sport and highlights emerging talent in trail running. 

Finally, they preview the Ironwood 24 Hour Race and share their excitement for the event.

In this episode of the Happy Trails Podcast, the boys head back to the pub to chat shit about running, they discuss a number of topics including their recent training updates, insights on speed sessions, and the importance of Zone 2 training. 

They also delve into upcoming races, particularly the Moab, and analyse the performance key threat to MOAB glory like Killian Korth. The conversation touches on the need for drug testing in the sport and highlights emerging talent in trail running. 

Finally, they preview the Ironwood 24 Hour Race and share their excitement for the event.

In this episode of the Happy Trails Podcast, Benny and Mitch get the pleasure of chatting to an old Shire buddy and Host of the "Running Matters Podcast" Haddy. 

The boys chat about the evolution of running podcasts, Haddy's journey from gymnastics to ultra running, and the challenges of balancing family life with competitive running. 

They delve into the importance of community and charity in the running scene, share memorable experiences from races like the Oxfam Trailwalker and UTMB, and reflect on the changing landscape of trail running events. In this engaging conversation, the hosts di...

In this episode of the Happy Trails Podcast, the Benn and Mitch joined by Nikita and Mark to discuss the big news of getting invited to run Coast 2 Kosci.

We delve into topics such as imposter syndrome, the application process, training strategies, nutrition, and the importance of community support in long-distance running. 

The conversation highlights the mental and physical challenges of ultra running, emphasizing the need for discipline, proper planning, and a positive mindset. Mark and Nikita share personal stories and insights, creating an engaging dialogue about the journey of becoming an ultra runner.

In this episode of the Happy Trails Podcast, hosts Benn Mitch discuss their experiences at the Elephant Trail Race, highlighting the challenges of the course, the importance of nutrition, and the role of community support. They reflect on their post-race recovery, training insights, and the logistics of race day, providing valuable tips for fellow ultra runners. 

Benn touches on his training plans for MOAB 240, and the excitement surrounding the UTMB. They delve into the mental challenges faced by runners, particularly in high-stakes races, and explore the importance of mindset in overcoming obstacles. The conversation emphasizes the significance o...

In this episode of the Happy Trails Podcast, hosts Ben and Mitch  welcome ultra-endurance athlete Mark Avery. Mark has raised over 100k for different charities over his journey and is one hell of a good bloke to chat to.

They explore Mark's journey in trail running, discussing his experiences in various races, the importance of mental preparation, and the role of mindset coaching in enhancing performance. Mark shares insights on training consistency, recovery, and the emotional aspects of racing, including the camaraderie among runners.

Mark chats about some difficult challenges and turning loss into motivation f...

In this episode of the Happy Trails Podcast, Mitch and Benny discuss the recent Hard Rock 100 race, training strategies for upcoming events like Moab, and the importance of specific race preparation. 

Benny gives some insight on the upcoming Elephant Trail Race this weekend and both Benny and Mitch set some goal times for the race. 

They dive into the challenges of ultra running, including the mental and physical stresses involved, and share personal insights on their training regimens. 

Finally we get our first taste of the Grumpy Trail runner. 

Enjoy! 

Rem...