Strap on your shoes and join us for a discussion with Matt Trappe, a creative director and founder of Auteur Sportif. In a world where trail running is transcending its traditional boundaries, we explore how athletes are evolving into brand creators, harnessing the power of storytelling to build their identities within the running community.

With the sport witnessing an influx of new talent and a growing appreciation from mainstream culture, Matt shares his insights on the dynamic landscape of trail running, including its relationship with branding, diversity, and personalities in competition.

During our conversation, we delve into the unique opportunities athletes have to amplify their narratives, the importance of telling authentic stories, and how emerging trends are reshaping the industry's engagement with fans. We discuss the need for a more inclusive community and the potential impact of character-building rivalries on attracting wider audiences.

Discover the remarkable journey of Grayson Murphy, affectionately known as Racin Grayson, as she navigates her path from a collegiate soccer player to a renowned professional runner for Saucony. With accolades including five-time US champion and two-time world champion, Grayson's story is a testament to resilience and reinvention.

Our conversation takes you through the realm of mountain trail running and its growing influence, as we discuss the prospects of such races becoming an Olympic sport. Grayson provides her unique perspective on the potential benefits and challenges of Olympic inclusion. The episode also highlights how the sport's integrity can be preserved through increased drug testing, ensuring a level playing field for a diverse array of athletes.

Grayson offers valuable reflections on maintaining consistency and avoiding injury, under the guidance of coach David Roche, who champions joy as an essential element of training. We wrap up by exploring Grayson's entrepreneurial journey with Wild Strides Paper Co., a venture born from her love for running and need for a tailored training log.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Jason Fitzgerald, the mastermind behind Strength Running and the voice of the Strength Running Podcast. With a marathon personal record of 2:39 and a USATF coaching certification, Jason brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the table. Unlock the secrets to balancing strength training and running performance as we tackle the intricacies of integrating weightlifting into a runner’s routine.

Discover how dynamic warm-ups and unconventional exercises like jumping rope can transform your training regimen. By weaving these elements into your routine, you'll enhance your running economy and reduce injury risks while boosting overall performance. From personal anecdotes to expert advice, this episode is packed with insights that will inspire you to elevate your running game and achieve your personal bests.

Join us as we look back on a year filled with unforgettable moments on the Hobby Jogger podcast. We also shine a light on the dynamic figures who enriched our podcast with their passion and resilience. As we wrap up the year, we're reminded of the camaraderie and friendships that make the Hobby Jogger podcast not just a platform, but a passionate community.

What happens when a passionate runner turns his love for endurance sports into a groundbreaking nutrition brand? Bill Armstrong, founder of Neversecond Nutrition, shares his entrepreneurial journey with us, highlighting the pivotal collaboration with Dutch scientist Oscar Yikendra that has shaped the brand's identity.

Bill delves into the significance of proper fueling strategies tailored for those not just leading the pack but also those in the middle and back. Uncover how Never Second Nutrition addresses the challenges of inconsistent product recommendations, providing athletes with straightforward and effective fueling options.

Ever wondered who truly reigns supreme in the challenging world of American trail running? Join us on Hobby Jogger and Friends as we team up with Jeremy Pope and Wil Walmsley to break down 2024 trail running highlights. We contemplate the ultimate showdown in female ultra-running. Courtney's impeccable undefeated streak, featuring landmark victories at Mount Fuji and Hard Rock, is pitted against Katie's awe-inspiring UTMB course record and her solid run at Western States.

As we shift focus to the men's category, we engage in a spirited debate over top contenders, shining light on Hayden Hawks' impressive year and Jim Walmsley's monumental achievements at Western States. The episode wraps by examining picks for performance of the year in iconic races such as Leadville 100 and Barkley Marathons.

Join us for an incredible journey into ultra-running with Lucas Hathaway, a passionate ultra-runner and the innovative mind behind the apparel company Runur. Lucas reveals his transformation from marathon enthusiast to ultra-marathon competitor. His recent third-place finish at the Tampa 100 and the unique challenges of running the Keys 100, including the iconic seven-mile bridge at sunset, are just a few highlights of his inspiring story. This episode promises to ignite your own spirit of adventure and determination.

As we traverse the world of endurance racing, the conversation delves into the profound mental and physical challenges that define ultra-running. With personal anecdotes from races like the Grindstone 100K and ambitious goals like the Arizona Monster 300, we explore the delicate balance between pushing limits and preserving well-being. Our dialogue underscores the importance of mental resilience and strategic planning, offering listeners valuable insights into the mindset needed to tackle long-distance races.

Ever wondered how one begins an ultra running career at 36 and ends up with nearly 100 wins? Connie Gardner, an ultra running legend and latest inductee to the Ultra Running Hall of Fame, joins us to share her fascinating journey, recorded live at the Thirsty Dog Brewery in Akron, Ohio. With co-host Nikki Niemeyer, we explore Connie's tales from the trail. Connie's passion and dedication to running are truly contagious, offering listeners a masterclass in perseverance and love for the sport.

Connie and Nikki elaborate on the joyful side of running—fun track workouts and community events that highlight the supportive nature of the running community. We discuss Connie’s coaching philosophy and the thrill of setting personal goals. Through personal anecdotes, we celebrate the humor and humility that come with navigating the unpredictable world of running.