"The Dirt" Trailrunning Podcast
by Ornery Mule Racing
Ornery Mule Racing - The OMR team shares coaching, community and race recap shows about the run, trail and ultra distance community. There is something for everyone!Coaching- Coach Loretta Tobolske-Horn & Coach Lindsay Phenix discuss training every ThursdayCommunity & Race recap- occasional shows by the OMR crew
Episodes
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The Ultimate Porkies Course Preview with David Clark, Experienced Hiker and Backpacker
In this episode, Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay sit down with special guest David Clark—avid backpacker, hiker, and professor at Grand Valley State University. Having spent years in Michigan's Upper Peninsula while attending Michigan Tech, David developed a deep passion for the Porcupine…
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Sunbeasts: Trail Running, Skin Safety, and Protecting Your PR with Dr. Scott McLean
Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay sit down with Dr. Scott McLean (Michigan Medicine) to talk all things sun protection for runners, along with a new initiative called Sunbeasts. They cover why runners are especially at risk for sun damage, how to monitor moles and skin changes, and practical ways…
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Fueling Science: Carbs, Protein, and Creatine with Gnarly Nutrition CEO Shannon O'Grady
Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay are joined by Shannon O'Grady, CEO of Gnarly Nutrition, for a deep dive into the science behind fueling performance. From NSF certification—and why it matters for athletes—to breaking down the roles of carbohydrates, protein, and creatine, this episode gets nerdy…
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On Your Marks — Starting Lines, DNFs & Preparedness
Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay dig into the moments before the race: getting to the starting line, DNFs, and the fine line between being prepared and under prepared. We share honest stories and coaching tips, and mindset shifts for athletes and everyday people who feel "not ready" even when they...
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From World Records to Trail Wisdom: Hydration, Electrolytes & Blister Care
Join Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay on this episode of the Dirt Trail Running Podcast as we break down the latest marathon world records. We dive into practical trail-tested advice on preventing and treating blisters, staying properly hydrated, and dialing in your electrolyte strategy for better...
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Orange Mud Origins Josh Sprague's Endurance Journey & Gear Innovation
Get ready to hit the trail with the Dirt Trail Running Podcast! In this episode, co-hosts Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay sit down with special guest Josh Sprague, CEO of Orange Mud and Seven Clay. Dive into the world of innovative trail running gear as Josh shares the story behind their…
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Beyond the Runner: A Masterclass in Ultra Crewing and Pacing
In this episode of The Dirt, Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay dive into the art and science of crewing and pacing for ultramarathons. Whether you are stepping up to support a friend for the first time or you're a seasoned veteran looking to sharpen your skills, the coaches share essential…
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Spring Forward: Transitioning Your Training, Gear, and Gut for Race Season
Coach Lindsay and Coach Loretta are back with a practical episode on spring and summer race prep—how to safely transition out of winter training, build intensity and volume without overdoing it, and stay adaptable as the weather changes. They dig into hydration and electrolytes (yes, even in...
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King of the Hill: Mastering Uphill and Downhill Training
In this episode of The Dirt, Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay break down the strategy of hill training. Whether you are gearing up for a technical trail race, a grueling mountain ultra, or a hilly road marathon, the coaches share essential tips for tackling both the climbs and the descents. Tune…
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Grand Canyon Bound: Training Gear and Safety
In this episode of the Dirt Podcast, co-hosts Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay share a trail-tested guide to preparing for hiking or running the Grand Canyon. From smart training strategies and must-have gear to safety considerations and route planning, this episode is packed with practical…
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The Finish Line: Coach Wendys Black Canyon 100k Journey
In this episode of The Dirt, co-hosts Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay sit down with Coach Wendy to dive into her recent journey at the Black Canyon 100k. Wendy shares an inside look at her training, the mental and physical hurdles of race day, and the invaluable experience of crossing the finish...
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Adapt, Train, Repeat
In this episode of The Dirt, Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay catch up on upcoming races, cold-weather training, and adapting to winter challenges. They dive into training your gut, using RPE, and staying consistent with mobility to keep you healthy and injury free.
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Running With Dogs
Ever wondered if your dog could be your next running partner? In this episode of The Dirt Podcast, co-hosts Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay are joined by special guest Coach Wendy to talk all things running with dogs. From figuring out if your dog is built to run, to how to start safely, train...
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Fix Your Feet for the Long Run: Foot Pain, Injuries & the Runner's Brain
On this episode of The Dirt Podcast, Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay are joined by special guest Dr. Tonya Olson, DPT — physical therapist and co-author of Fix Your Feet — for a deep dive into the most overlooked (and abused) part of the ultra runner's body. We're talking all things feet,...
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Hormones Training the Long Game Navigating Perimenopause Postpartum Menopause
Coach Loretta is joined by physical therapist Dr. Liesle Elsey to revisit a topic many runners and active women are navigating right now: perimenopause, postpartum in perimenopause, and menopause. In this episode of The Dirt, we talk about what's actually happening in the body during hormonal...
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Process Goals The Power of Transition Season
In this episode of The Dirt, Coaches Loretta Tobolske-Horn and Lindsay dig into one of the most overlooked, high-impact phases of the running year: transition season. This is the season where runners reset, rebuild, and refocus — not by chasing mileage, but by tightening the processes that...
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Tunnel Hill 100 with Coach Reese
In this episode, Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay chat with Coach Reese about his second-place finish at Tunnel Hill 100. Reese walks through the race from start to finish — pacing, fueling, and how he managed the day — plus a look at how he structured his training leading into it and what's…
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Hennepin Highlights & Coaching Communication
Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay recap the Hennepin 100, share tips on communicating with your crew during races, supporting athletes post-race and discuss how they stay connected with athletes throughout the week. Plus, a look ahead to Lily Medina's final race of the series. Real races. Real...
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Four Hundreds Down One to Go Lily Medinas Slam Journey
Coaches Loretta and Lindsay sit down with Lily Medina, just after she completed Hallucination 100—her fourth 100-miler of the Slam—finishing 3rd overall female. Loretta crewed Lily for this race, giving listeners an inside look at pacing, fueling, and support strategies. In this episode:...
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When Niggles Speak: Training Smarter, Not Harder
From niggles to the big picture: we cover injury coping, recovery tools, and how to adjust training and goals—plus a look ahead to Hallucination 100.
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Coachs Picks - Gadgets Gear for Runners
In this Show & Tell episode of The Dirt Podcast, Coaches Loretta and Lindsay are joined by Coach Scott to share their favorite running gadgets and recovery tools. From hydration tech and trekking poles to timers, massage tools, and recovery aids, we break down what actually works and why we love it.
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The Midwest Super Slam Part 3 Lily After Burning River
Part 3 of our Midwest Super Slam mini-series! Coaches Loretta and Lindsay sit down with athlete Lily Medina after Burning River 100—her third 100-miler of the Slam—where she remains first overall. We break down the highs, lows, and hard lessons from Ohio and look ahead to Hallucination 100 in six...
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Mind Games on the Trail Overcoming Mental Blocks with Coach Madeline Harms
On this episode of The Dirt Trail Running Podcast, Coaches Loretta and Lindsay sit down with special guest Coach Madeline Harms—developmental psychologist, professor, and running coach—to dive into the mental side of racing and training. We unpack what it means to "choke" during a race, how panic...
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The Dirt with Coach Lindsay & Coach Loretta – Vanlife, Heat, and Wild Preparedness
In this episode, Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay catch up on summer adventures and racing highlights. Coach Loretta shares stories from her vanlife travels out west—exploring new places, logging trail miles, and staying prepared just in case wild animals showed up (spoiler: they didn't, but she…
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Beyond the Cutoff Russell Strattons Resilience at WSER
Join hosts Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay from Ornery Mule Coaching as they welcome athlete Russell Stratton to the Dirt Podcast. In this candid conversation, Russell shares his experience at the Western States Endurance Run, where he faced the tough reality of a DNF (Did Not Finish) after…
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Kettles Grit and Getting Through It Lily Medinas Midwest Super Slam Journey
On this episode of The Dirt with Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay, we're joined once again by Ornery Mule Coaching athlete Lily Medina for a raw and inspiring recap of her second race in the Midwest Super Slam: the Kettle Moraine 100. Lily opens up about the tough patches she faced on the trail…
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Midwest Super Slam Madness with Ornery Mule Coaching athlete Lily Medina
This episode of The Dirt, Coaches Loretta and Lindsay sit down with special guest and Ornery Mule Coaching athlete Lily Medina, who's deep into one of the craziest ultra running challenges out there—the Midwest Super Slam of Ultras. That's five 100-mile races—Mohican, Kettle Moraine, Burning…
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Running on Passion
Join Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay as they share their latest race experiences and upcoming challenges. Lindsay reflects on her adventures and Cruel Jewel and upcoming races San Diego Rock and Roll Marathon and the Jackal -5 back to back marathons. Loretta discusses her time volunteering at the...
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Porta Potty Panic Other Trail Tales
From porta potty panic to legendary race shorts, Coaches Lindsay and Loretta share listener-submitted stories that prove every trail runner has a hilarious tale. Laugh with us — because if it's not weird, it's not ultrarunning. Whether you're a seasoned ultrarunner or just here for the chaos…
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Fail Fast: Ultrarunning & Problem-Solving
Ultrarunning teaches us how to adapt, stay calm in chaos, and turn failure into fuel. In this episode, Loretta and Lindsay share real race stories, quick-thinking strategies, and how to carry lessons from the trail into everyday life. Whether you're chasing a finish line or navigating challenges...
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Trail Runner University - Training Plans Unpacked Speed - Vert Couch to 5k and mileage challenge
In this episode of *The Dirt Podcast*, Coaches Loretta and Lindsay explore essential training programs tailored for Trail Runner University. Whether you're aiming to improve your speed, conquer vertical climbs, or embark on your first 5K, this episode has something for everyone. We'll break down:...
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Mid to Back Pack: Embracing the Journey of Every Runner
In this episode of **The Dirt**, Coaches Loretta and Lindsay dive into the unique journey of mid to back of the pack runners. They explore the challenges faced during training, from pacing to mental hurdles, and share practical tips to enhance your running experience. What You'll Learn: -...
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Running Stronger with Age Tips for Longevity in the Sport
In this episode of "The Dirt," hosts Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay dive into the critical topic of aging athletes. Join us as we explore the physiological changes that come with age, effective injury prevention strategies, and the importance of nutrition for maintaining performance. We'll also...
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DNF Growth Recovery Mindset
Join hosts Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay on The Dirt Coaches Edition as we explore the DNF (Do Not Finish) recovery mindset. Discover how to process your feelings and grief, tackle common DNF reasons and implement effective strategies moving forward. *In this episode you'll learn: *How to…
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Getting to know Coach Natalie
In this episode of Coffee with Coaches, get to know Coach Natalie! Reese & Loretta are joined by Coach Natalie to discover her background, experiences, & style that make her a great coach with OMC. You'll hear about Natalie's background, family life, running history, & experience her kind...
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Get schooled with Trail Runner University!
Get schooled with Trail Runner University! Want a winter running challenge that includes a 10 week program, swag, community, & trials to get you to your mileage goal through the cold months? If so, sign up for "TRU"! In this episode, OMC coaches Loretta & Reese give you the breakdown of what…
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Coach Lorettas Ultra Crazy FKT Across Michigan
In this episode, Coach Reese interviews coach Loretta after finishing her FKT across the entire state of Michigan! Get the inside scoop on how she tackled a multi-day effort & crushed the route! Topics include… 1.) FKT recap 2.) Sleep strategy 3.) Training for a multi-day FKT 4.) Loretta's...
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Journey to UTMB 100 finish with athlete Sam Stimac
In this episode, coaches Loretta, Reese, & athlete Sam Stimac join together to talk about Sam's experiences in her training leading up to the iconic UTMB. Hear first hand how her race unfolded, how her training lead up to a fantastic performance, & personal trials navigating previous injuries.…
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Coach Reese - Hennepin Hundred Race Recap
Coach Reese shares his journey to victory at the Hennepin Hundred, where he finished first overall. Alongside Coach Loretta, they dive deep into the mental struggles that accompany long-distance racing, offering a transparent look at the challenges faced on race day. This episode is not just…
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Hennepin Hundred X 5 Advice from Coach Scott
Join us on this episode of Coffee with Coaches for our special guest coach Scott Struck! Coach Scott has 10 combined 100 mile finishes between Hennepin & Tunnel Hill & he's here to share his wisdom! Hear about how this year's Hennepin 100 unfolded & how it has compared to the previous 4 other...
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Running & Motherhood
Running & Motherhood - the truth about an active life before, during & after pregnancy! Join OMR coaches Reese & Loretta with their favorite PT, Dr. Liesle Else, as they explore how pregnancy impacts active mothers! No topic is off the table for these three, & it's important to encourage open...
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Time on Feet
What does it really mean? Who needs to be thinking about it? How does it relate to my ultra performance? In this episode of Coffee with Coaches, Loretta and Reese debunk the common way they hear TOF used with their athletes. Yes, we want as much TOF as possible, but not-we don't want you to count...
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Get details on training for Spartathlon with Coach Jacob Moss
In this episode of Coffee with Coaches, OMC coaches Loretta & Reese & joined by coach Jacob Moss - all the way from France! Tune in to hear about how coach Jacob is preparing for Spartathlon, the 153 mile race tracing the legendary trek made by Pheidippides. Hear how coach Jacob is adjusting to...
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Coach Lindsay Phenix shares about Badwater 135 and Angeles Crest 100
"In this episode, Coach Lindsay Phenix shares her incredible accomplishment of finishing 6th at both the Badwater 135 and the Angeles Crest 100 within less than two weeks of each other. Lindsay discusses the key training and preparation concepts that allowed her to excel at these two grueling...
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Speed Reserve - What is it? Why does it matter to ultra marathoning?
"In this episode of Coffee with Coaches, coaches Loretta & Reese talk about "Speed Reserve" - what is it? Why does it matter to ultra marathoning? & how do we build our bodies to be able to handle higher-paced running? Listen in & find out why our top-end speed matters even in long races. &...
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About this show
Ornery Mule Racing - The OMR team shares coaching, community and race recap shows about the run, trail and ultra distance community. There is something for everyone!Coaching- Coach Loretta Tobolske-Horn & Coach Lindsay Phenix discuss training every ThursdayCommunity & Race recap- occasional shows by the OMR crew
Hosted by
Ornery Mule Racing
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