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It’s the end of 2024, and we’re wrapping up the year with a deep dive into the biggest trends, moments, and milestones in trail running. Zoë Rom and Buzz Burrell share their top highlights from the year, including record-breaking performances, evolving race formats, and bold predictions for 2025. Joined by UltraSignup’s Head of Data, Matt Abbott, this episode explores the stories behind the stats and how they’re shaping the sport we love. Whether you’re a seasoned ultrarunner or just hitting the trails, there’s something here for you.
Chapters:
[00:00] – Welcome to the Trailhead: Reflecting on the biggest moments of 2024 [01:22] – Super Shoes in Trail Running: Hype vs. Reality [2:06] – The Launch of the World Trail Majors: What It Means for the Sport [4:26] – Tara Dower’s Appalachian Trail Record and Other Standout Performances [19:50] – Breaking Down Trail Running Demographics with Matt Abbott: Who’s Running and Why? [24:42] – The Rise of Backyard Ultras and the Boom in 200+ Mile Races [34:05] – Women in Trail Running: Participation Trends and Media Narratives [46:39] - Is there a trail running hype bubble? [49:43] – UltraSignup CEO David Callahan talks about the growth of trail running [55:07] – The growth of run clubs [1:02:23]- What sustainable growth looks like for the trail community
Thanks to Our Sponsor:
Join us for the inaugural Utah 115 by Grand to Grand Ultra, May 16–18, 2025, in stunning Kanab, Utah. Choose from 115- and 50-mile distances in one of the most dramatic landscapes on earth. Use code TRAILHEAD10 at checkout for 10% off registration.Connect With Us:
Have questions or ideas for the show? Email us at [email protected]. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share the episode with your trail running crew. Thanks for meeting us at The Trailhead! -
1:00 Zoë and Buzz discuss the technological and cultural shifts that have led to the trail running livestream boom and debate what its impact will be on the sport.
6:04 Buzz interviews Aravaipa Running founder Jamil Coury. They discuss how Mountain Outpost is leading the way with livestreams and why he decided to buy Ultrarunning magazine. They also discuss how the sport has changed and how Jamil’s love of bringing new people into the sport inspires him to keep pushing boundaries with event coverage.
28:06 Zoë interviews writer and researcher Leigh Cowart, author of Hurts So Good: The Culture of Pain on Purpose, about the psychology that drives people to seek out uncomfortable experiences intentionally. They dive into how Leigh’s trip to Big’s Backyard Ultra inspired them to write about ultrarunners and what they learned about pain from hanging out with ultra athletes. -
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0:50:00 Buzz and Zoë talk about what community means to them and how the trail running community can serve as a positive model as people reassess who they consider their neighbors.
11:09:00 Zoë interviews Tara Dower, who recently set the overall Fastest Known Time on the Appalachian Trail, about her preparation for the FKT and how her relationship with the iconic trail and with hiking and running has evolved over time. Tara talks about her trail running role models and how she wants to inspire more people to push their limits on the trail.
34:47:00 Buzz interviews Warren Doyle, who has hiked the AT 18 times and is the founder of the Appalachian Trail Institute. They discuss the trail's history of speed records and explain why so many hikers and runners are drawn to this iconic through-hike.
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:55 Zoë and Buzz discuss the "party platform" that all trail runners can agree on and how athletes can navigate election anxiety.
8:29 Buzz interviews RUN Editor in Chief Brian Metzler. Buzz and Brian discuss the biggest changes they've seen in the world of trail and ultrarunning and what's next for the running industry.
33:11 Zoë interviews TrainingPeaks co-founder Dirk Friel about how technology has changed training for endurance sports, and why AI isn't taking your coach's job just yet.
The Trailhead is sponsored by Running Warehouse. Running Warehouse offers the best brands and the widest selection of running gear. Our in-house experts make it easy to find the right shoes and apparel with thousands of reviews, product deep dives, how-tos, and more. Plus, with free shipping and fast delivery, Running Warehouse makes ordering simple.
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00:00:53 Buzz and Zoë chat through advice they wish they had gotten when they first started running, and advice for new and aspiring trail and ultrarunners.
00:8:53 Zoë interviews Randi Zuckerberg (yes, that Zuckerberg!) about how she went from running a half marathon, to signing up for the Cocodona 250 in a year. Plus, they dive into what it means to go all in on your passions, and advice for athletes balancing training with busy lives.
35:48:52 Buzz interviews Brendan Madigan, Race Director at Broken Arrow Sky Race about what it takes to run a three day event and what US races can learn from European style events.
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1:00 Buzz and Zoë discuss the intersection of trail running and alpinism, and how runners can stay safe when seeking high adventure.
14:00 Zoë interviews Kilian Jornet about his Alpine Connections Project, where he linked 82 peaks in under 20 days entirely under his own power. Kilian unpacks how he trained for his epic alpine adventure, and why he wants to use it to draw attention to climate change in the alps.
42:44 Buzz interivews pro trail runner and race director Mike Foote about how The Rut has become such a successful event, and how he was inspired by his experiences racing in Europe.
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1:00 Buzz and Zoë break down their favorite moments in ultra running history, from historic race performances to establishing new routes and FKTs.
14:20 Coach, writer, and podcaster David Roche discusses his record-breaking win at the 2024 Leadville 100, diving into his training, shooting his shot, and why ultra runners are getting so much faster.
39:11 Buzz interviews Jasmin Paris, the first woman to finish the Barkley Marathons. They dive into how Jasmin juggles training with a busy life as a parent and veterinarian, and how she prepares mentally for grueling events like the Barkley Marathons.
The Trailhead is sponsored by Running Warehouse. Running Warehouse offers the best brands and widest selection of running gear. Our in-house experts make it easy to find the right shoes and apparel with thousands of reviews, product deep dives, how-tos, and more. Plus, with free shipping and fast delivery, Running Warehouse makes ordering simple.
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0:55 Zoë and Buzz discuss Buzz’s recent travels around Europe, and why running is such a great way to explore new places.
10:55 Zoë interviews Dr. Jeffrey Hammond, a podiatrist who works with professional athletes to troubleshoot common foot problems. They discuss how runners can prevent common ailments like plantar fascitis, Achilles tendonitis, and dive into how to treat blisters on the fly.
27:16 Buzz interviews Mags Nixon, a professional trail running guide about running the Tour du Mont Blanc. With more and more interest in the loop around Mont Blanc each year, Mags breaks down how every athlete can explore the historic route on foot, along with vital trip planning tips to get the most out of your tour. Check out Mags' treks here!
This episode of The Trailhead is brought to you by Sidas, Your Foot Company. Every foot is unique, and every adventure demands the right support. At Sidas, we believe in preventing injuries so you can stay on the trails doing what you love. Take care of your feet, and they'll take care of you.
Protect your feet. Enjoy the trails.
Don't let foot pain hold you back. Use promo code trailhead20 for an exclusive 20% off your entire purchase at sidas.com. That's trailhead20 for 20% off.
With over 30 years of industry experience, Sidas offers performance insoles, innovative socks, and advanced skincare products designed to enhance your trail running experience, no matter the distance.
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1:20 Buzz and Zoë break down the post-Olympics hype, and discuss whether or not trail running should be an Olympic sport, and what it would mean to see trail elevated to the world stage.
14:32 Zoë interviews Vic Thasiah, founder and President of Runners For Public Lands. They discuss why Vic founded RPL and what all runners can do to better protect public lands and be better environmental stewards.
44:01 Buzz interviews Reid Delman, Race Director of the Desert Rats Trail Running Festival by UTMB about how his event has changed, and how it has stayed the same since being acquired by UTMB.
This episode of the Trailhead is brought to you by LMNT. As we hit the trails, from the seasoned ultrarunner to the weekend warrior, one thing we all need to nail is hydration. Grab a free LMNT Sample Pack, when you go to Whether you're powering through an ultra, or just exploring the trails, hydration is key. Check out LMNT and visit drinkLMNT.com/UltraSignup for a free gift from us to you with any purchase.
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1:02 Buzz and Zoë break down the differences between trail running in the US and Europe and why the trails in Europe are so awesome (read: hard).
18:57 Zoë talks to Mario Mendoza, a professional trail runner and pastor from Bend, about growing up on an avocado farm, falling in love with the outdoors at a young age, and balancing work, training and family. Mario and Zoë also talk about how Mario's running influences his faith and work as a pastor as well as how he's gearing up for OCC.
46:08 Buzz interviews Doug Mayer, the "Mayor of Chamonix" about French trail running culture, and how to plan a trip around Mont Blanc. They discuss why the culture of trail running differs in France and what everyone can learn from running in Europe.
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Hosts Zoë Rom and Buzz Burrell discuss the rise of races that are 200 miles and longer, why different running goals are valid, and what draws us to different events.
14:20 Zoë interviews the winner of the 2024 Cocodona 250, Rachel Entrekin, about how she approaches multi-day races and balances training with work and life (or doesn't!). They discuss sleep strategies, and how people can train for their first 200 mile race.
38:02 Buzz interviews Candice Burt, owner of Destination Trail Races, which hosts the Triple Crown of 200-mile races. They discuss Candice's work as a race director, what it takes to put on a 200-mile race, and her approach to long-distance races and FKTs as an athlete.
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00:49:47 Hosts Buzz Burrell and Zoë Rom discuss why the Western States Endurance run is getting so dang fast, and talk about why the Hardrock Endurance Run (which is not a race!!) attracts high caliber athletes and adventurers year after year.
14:54:35 Zoë Rom chats with Courtney Dauwalter about her historic triple last year, winning WSER, Hardrock and UTMB in a single summer, and how she's going to approach her big loop around the San Juan Mountains this weekend.
29:27:78 Buzz Burrell interviews Hardrock Race Director Dale Garland about why the event attracts runners from all over the world, what he's doing to make it more accessible, and what it takes to complete the wild and tough loop
Thanks to our generous partner, LMNT! Skip the dodgy stuff and make sure you properly replenish and recover after every run with LMNT hydration! Check out LMNT and visit drinkLMNT.com/UltraSignup for a free gift from us to you with any purchase.
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00:00:54 Hosts Zoë Rom and Buzz Burrell discuss their connection to the Western States Endurance Run and why it’s a rising tide for trail running.
12:58:00 Zoë Rom talks to pro ultrarunner Ryan Montgomery about how he embodies pride all year long, and how his patient approach to training has paid off in his running career, and his hopes for Western States this year. Ryan also shares how the trail and ultra community can be more inclusive and welcoming.
35:15:32 Buzz Burrell interviews Diana Fitzpatrick, WSER’s Board President about how Western States has evolved over the years and how its leaders are preserving its essence. Buzz and Diana discuss how to make WSER more inclusive and welcoming and what this race means to the community.
This episode of The Trailhead is brought to you by Sidas, Your Foot Company.Every foot is unique, and every adventure demands the right support. At Sidas, we believe in preventing injuries so you can stay on the trails doing what you love. Take care of your feet, and they'll take care of you.
Protect your feet. Enjoy the trails.
Don't let foot pain hold you back. Use promo code trailhead20 for an exclusive 20% off your entire purchase at sidas.com. That's trailhead20 for 20% off.
With over 30 years of industry experience, Sidas offers performance insoles, innovative socks, and advanced skincare products designed to enhance your trail running experience, no matter the distance.
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Host Buzz Burrell and new co-host Zoë Rom ask each other rapid-fire questions to get to know one another and share hot takes about the best trails, races, and the proper length for running socks.
19:33 Zoë interviews social media star and professional runner Mikey Mitchell about adventure and authenticity online, his big race season, and why raves are great training for ultras. Mikey shares what Pride Month means to him and how everyone can embody pride on the trails and online.
29:01 Buzz interviews Born to Run Race Director and photographer Luis Escobar about what it takes to assemble a great event and the hard work required to get a great shot. We take a deep dive into his historic photo of Scott Jurek at the Copper Canyon Ultras, and why he thinks social media competition is a good thing.
The Trailhead by UltraSignup is presented by Running Warehouse. Running Warehouse offers the best brands and widest selection of running gear. Our in-house experts make it easy to find the right shoes and apparel with thousands of reviews, product deep dives, how-tos, and more. Plus, with free shipping and fast delivery, we make ordering simple.
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Corrine and Buzz chat about Corrine’s finish at Transvulcania, and an exciting update for the Trailhead. Corrine shares what she’s learned from hosting the Trailhead, and why everyday runners are the lifeblood of the sport.
12:56 Zoë Rom interviews Emily Halnon, whose recent book To The Gorge explores grief and resilience on the Pacific Crest Trail. Zoë and Emily discuss healing from grief through running, Emily’s writing process, and what it takes to set a 460-mile FKT (Fastest Known Time).
25:00 Buzz Burrell interviews Race Directors Renee and Todd Janssen of Go Beyond Racing, who host 40 events annually in the Pacific Northwest, and founded the Trail Mix Fund, a 501(3)c non-profit dedicated to improving diversity in trail running by helping ease financial barriers to racing.
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Buzz and Corrine chat about taper tantrums ahead of Corrine’s upcoming spring A race, and everything that goes into a successful taper.
Corrine interviews trail runner and coach Cat Bradley. They discuss Cat’s impressive track record in the sport, Cat 2.0, her coaching, and how to race with nothing to lose. Your performance is not a measure of your worth.
Buzz talks about the Fat Dog Backyard Ultra with race director Erik Bird. They discuss the unique aspects of the backyard ultra format and how it enables to runners to push their own limits. Erik shares with Buzz that race directors really truly appreciate the participation of every runner in their events. Every time you show up to race, it means something to them.
This episode is brought to you by Running Warehouse.
Running Warehouse offers the best brands and widest selection of running gear. Our in-house experts make it easy to find the right shoes and apparel with thousands of reviews, product deep dives, how-tos, and more. Plus, with free shipping and fast delivery, we make ordering simple.
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Buzz and Corrine chat about staying in the game when you hit a setback, physical, mental or emotional.
Corrine talks with Tracer co-founder Joey Wilson about AI coaching and the future of tech in trail running.
And Buzz chats with Six03 Endurance race director, Tom Hooper, about the joys of short and steep running on the East Coast.
For 100 years, LOWA has been known for its emphasis on craftsmanship, technology, and performance. Introducing the all new FORTUX GTX by LOWA. It is one of LOWA’s All Terrain Running Shoes. The FORTUX GTX is great for longer runs and speed hikes in any weather conditions. And it’s loaded with performance and supportive features, including a grippy outsole for superb traction on rough terrain. And durable jacquard weave uppers. And a cushioned rocker midsole for support. It also has fast and secure speed lacing, and GORE-TEX Invisible Fit lining to keep your feet comfortably dry, mile after mile. Get 20% off LOWA ATR when you apply the discount code TRAILHEAD20.
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Corrine and Buzz chat about spring training, how to think about tune-up races, and everything you need to know about that familiar heavy muscle feeling you get after a big effort, known as delayed onset muscle soreness.
Corrine talks to Mammoth Trailfest Race Director Tim Tollefson about his journey with body dysmorphia and building community with The Mammoth Trailfest. Mammoth Trailfest offers a series of challenging distances on some of the most beautiful trails in the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains. Tim built the race on his favorite routes and carefully designed it to not only be hard but also incredibly satisfying.
You can find out more about the race at https://www.mammothtrailfest.com/ and @mammothtrailfest on Instagram.
Then Buzz answers questions from callers, including our very own podcast producer Tina, who is preparing to take on the challenging uphill Loon Mountain Race this summer and as a road runner, is looking for tips to prepare for the uphill.
This episode of the The Trailhead is brought to you by Running Warehouse. Running Warehouse offers the best brands and widest selection of running gear. Our in-house experts make it easy to find the right shoes and apparel with thousands of reviews, product deep dives, how-tos, and more. Plus, with free shipping and fast delivery, we make ordering simple.
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Buzz and Corrine talk about what we are all talking about, Jasmin Paris’s epic finish at this year’s Barkley Marathon, a record 5 finishers, and the lore of Barkley.
In an interview with Born to Adapt trail race founder, Zach Friedley, Corrine gets good advice, race directors should reach out to adaptive runners, have plans in place to accommodate them. Don’t wait for them to be interested, encourage it. Athletes are ready to run.
Buzz and Donna consider starting a to petition for age groups in FKTs. Brian asks Buzz about the train low/sleep high concept. If you live at and train at elevation, is there any benefit to coming down the mountain for speedwork?
This episode of The Trailhead is brought to you by LOWA. For 100 years, LOWA has been known for its emphasis on craftsmanship, technology, and performance. Introducing the all new FORTUX GTX by LOWA for longer runs and speed hikes in any weather conditions. It’s loaded with performance and supportive features, including a grippy outsole for superb traction on rough terrain, durable jacquard weave uppers and cushioned rocker midsole for support, fast and secure speed lacing, and GORE-TEX Invisible Fit lining to keep your feet comfortably dry, mile after mile. Get 20% off LOWA All Terrain RunningShoes when you apply the discount code TRAILHEAD20.
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Corrine and Buzz talk about the FURTHER ultra event last week in Palm Springs, records shattered by Camille Herron and how the event sought to push scientific understanding of female performance further. Plus, this event really hearkens back to the origins of ultra running – the 6-day race.
Corrine interviews multisport athlete and rising track and trail running star Anna Gibson. Anna talks about growing up running trails, the learning curve of elite racing in two disciplines, and how cross training keeps her both happy and well-trained. You can follow Anna on Strava and on Instagram @annagibsonn.
Buzz hears from callers, first Bobby asks about what it takes to finish a hundred miler and Buzz lets him know it’s about more than training. Then Carl asks how to prepare with an extra early race day start.
This episode of The Trailhead is brought to you by Running Warehouse. Running Warehouse offers the best brands and widest selection of running gear. Our in-house experts make it easy to find the right shoes and apparel with thousands of reviews, product deep dives, how-tos, and more. Plus, with free shipping and fast delivery, we make ordering simple.
Go to www.runningwarehouse.com to order.
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