Between Peaks and Presence, with Leslie Vallecillo, Josh Holland, Philip Mangan and Eme Morato

In this episode of the Beyond Running Podcast, Manuel "Eme" Morato sits down with Leslie Vallecillo, Josh Holland, and Philip Mangan to revisit an unforgettable expedition through the wild landscapes of British Columbia. The group, supported by Vivobarefoot, was dropped deep into the backcountry by helicopter and set out to hike ten peaks in minimalist shoes, an experience that pushed their physical, mental, and emotional boundaries while deepening their connection to nature and one another. Together, they reflect on what it means to move through the world with intention and awareness, stripped down to the essentials. Each guest shares what the journey revealed to them about endurance, trust, and the power of collective experience. The conversation also touches on the upcoming documentary that captures their adventure: an intimate portrayal of both the challenge and the beauty found in reconnecting with the wild. This episode is both a reflection and a teaser: a glimpse into an expedition that became more than a physical test, it became a lesson in humility, presence, and the profound sense of belonging that emerges when humans return to the rhythms of the Earth.