In this engaging episode of DFW Running Talk, host Chris Detzel sits down with Libby Jones, founder of The Active Joe and a pivotal figure in the Dallas-Fort Worth running community. With 18 years of experience in race directing and community building, Libby shares her remarkable journey from an untrained 5K runner to becoming a influential force in Texas trail running.

Libby's story begins in 2005 with her first race, the St. Paddy's Dash, and evolves through her transformation into the president of the Dallas Running Club, where she grew membership from 1,000 to 4,000 members. She candidly discusses her progression from road races to ultramarathons, completing 38 marathons and ultras before a serious leg injury during the pandemic changed her path.

As the founder of The Active Joe, Libby offers insight into creating some of Texas's most beloved racing events, including the New Year's Double and Dinosaur Valley Endurance Run. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of race directing, from losing venues to building inclusive spaces for underrepresented communities in running.

The conversation takes an exciting turn as Libby reveals her recent move to Montreal and hints at potential future expansion of The Active Joe into Quebec. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the importance of creating safe, welcoming spaces in trail running for all communities, including women, LGBTQ+, and people of color.

Listeners will appreciate Libby's honest discussion about the business and community aspects of race directing, volunteer management, and the evolution of trail running in DFW. Her passion for the sport and commitment to inclusivity shines through as she shares both personal stories and professional insights from nearly two decades in the running community.

Whether you're a seasoned ultrarunner, a race director, or someone interested in the development of running communities, this episode offers valuable perspectives on leadership, community building, and the future of trail running in Texas and beyond.

In this captivating episode of DFW Running Talk, host Chris Detzel sits down with Rob Goyen, a transformative figure in Texas trail running who revolutionized the sport through his company Trail Racing Over Texas (TROT). The conversation unfolds as an intimate journey through Goyen's remarkable evolution from a 350+ pound alcoholic to a pioneering race director who changed the landscape of trail running in Texas.

Key Narrative Threads:

1. Personal Transformation
- Goyen's battle with alcoholism and journey to sobriety (12 years sober)
- Discovery of running as a replacement for addiction
- Accidental introduction to trail running through Houston's Memorial Loop

2. Business Innovation
- Creation of Trail Racing Over Texas (TROT) from informal group runs
- Expansion from 2 to 17 races annually
- Revolutionary marketing approaches including Facebook Live events and sign-up-a-thons
- Strategic focus on social media and community building
- Detailed insights into race economics and business operations

3. Operational Excellence
- Emphasis on volunteer management and appreciation
- Development of ambassador programs
- Strategic approach to race scaling and growth
- Focus on consistent race experiences across events
- Innovation in race technology and communication

4. Personal Cost & Challenges
- Impact of losing a runner at Brazos Bend
- Mental health struggles and anxiety
- Balance between business success and family life
- Decision to step away from race directing
- Transition to Ultra Signup role

5. Industry Insights
- Evolution of trail running community in Texas
- Importance of business acumen in race directing
- Role of volunteers in race success
- Future of race technology and communication
- Balance between growth and maintaining community feel

The episode provides both inspirational personal narrative and practical business insights, making it valuable for aspiring race directors, trail runners, and anyone interested in the intersection of business and outdoor sports. Goyen's candid discussion of both successes and struggles offers a rare glimpse into the realities of building and running a successful trail racing company while managing personal challenges and family obligations.

This episode stands out for its raw honesty, practical business insights, and the compelling story of personal transformation through trail running. It serves as both a cautionary tale and an inspirational guide for those interested in the business side of trail running events.

Duration: Approximately 50 minutes
Format: Interview/Conversation
Notable Quote: "My job is to put really big races on that feel like really small races."

EPISODE OVERVIEW:

In this enlightening conversation with Briston Rains, founder and CEO of Texas Outlaw Running, we dive deep into the remarkable journey of how a college freshman's bold vision transformed into one of Texas' most successful trail running organizations.

At just 24 years old, Briston has defied conventional wisdom by building a thriving race management company that now operates 35+ events across Texas. His story begins in a college dorm room with just $300 to his name and unfolds into a testament to entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to the trail running community.

KEY DISCUSSION POINTS:

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
• Started with Apache Running clothing line in high school
• Conceived Texas Outlaw Running (originally Texas Devil Running) in a college economics class
• Initial funding through creative micro-investments from dorm mates

BUSINESS GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT
• Evolution from controversial first race to professional race management
• Strategic approach to race selection and locations
• Innovative marketing strategies using limited resources
• Development of multiple revenue streams: races, coaching, and merchandise

OPERATIONAL INSIGHTS
• Building and maintaining a dedicated volunteer community
• Creating exceptional race experiences through three key principles:
- Best aid stations
- Perfect course markings
- Most encouraging staff and volunteers
• Expansion into road racing with the upcoming Gainesville Marathon

PERSONAL JOURNEY
• Balancing multiple roles: Race Director, CEO, Coach, Teacher, and new father
• Near-quitting moment in 2023 before breakthrough success
• Current training for Houston Marathon
• Integration of faith and business principles

INDUSTRY PERSPECTIVE
• Discussion of trail vs. road race dynamics
• Strategic decisions behind race distances and locations
• Insights into the future of Texas trail running

BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY
• "One brick at a time" approach to building the business
• Focus on simplicity and user experience
• Commitment to reinvesting in the business
• Emphasis on genuine connections with the running community

The conversation provides valuable insights for:
• Aspiring race directors
• Entrepreneurs in the sports industry
• Trail and road runners
• Anyone interested in building a community-focused business

This episode stands out for its raw honesty about the challenges of building a business in the running industry, while offering practical insights into successful race management and community building. Briston's story serves as both inspiration and practical guide for anyone looking to turn their passion into a successful business venture.

Running Time: 53 minutes