Beyond the Distance: Mental Health, Dogs, and the Long Run

In this unforgettable episode of the HappyCast, hosts Andrew, Dylan, and Stephanie welcome Canadian ultrarunner and mental health advocate Evan Birch, along with his trail-blazing running partner: his seven-year-old Vizsla, Nova. Together, Evan and Nova recently attempted the Orcas Island 100, marking what may be one of the first sanctioned 100-mile ultramarathon efforts by a human-canine team. Their story—captured in the upcoming documentary Supernova: The 100-Mile Dog—goes far beyond finish lines.Evan takes us through the years of preparation that led to this moment, from choosing Nova as a pup specifically for the trails, to learning how to communicate without words, to tailoring training and gear for the unique demands of ultrarunning with a dog. The conversation dives into the bond they’ve built over hundreds of miles and the sheer trust it takes to tackle such a challenge together.Beyond the race, this episode is a powerful reflection on mental health, identity, and resilience. Evan opens up about his background in emergency services, his own struggles, and how trail running—and Nova—became a path toward healing. Raw, thoughtful, and deeply inspiring, this episode is a reminder that sometimes, the journey isn’t just about covering ground—it’s about who we become along the way.ultrabirch.comBe sure to subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and we always appreciate you leaving a good rate and review. Join the Facebook Group and follow us on Instagram and check out our website for the more episodes, posts and merchandise coming soon.Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at [email protected]