Trails, Tales, and Fails - An Ultra Running Podcast

Sarah finished 5th female at Mozart 100 by UTMB — a 120km mountain ultra in the Austrian Alps with long climbs, technical descents and a strong international field.In this episode we break down the whole experience:race week preparation and kit decisionsmanaging training around work and family lifepreparing for Alpine races while living on the South Downshow the climbs and descents compared to UK racepacing, fuelling and race strategywhere the race got difficultand what a result like this means only three years into ultra runningRecorded 36 hours after the finish, while everything was still fresh.Coaching enquiries⁠⁠⁠ Support the show via ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and buy us a coffee.We’re proud to be supported by: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BV Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Näak Nutrition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.⁠⁠⁠Trailskin⁠⁠⁠ get 20% off with TTFS_20Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

This week on Trails, Tales & Fails, Max and Rob dive into a more honest conversation around ultra running, routines, streaks, escapism, addiction, and why endurance sport can sometimes become far more than “just running.”Why do runners become obsessed with structure?Why do 4am alarms, endless training blocks, and planning life around races somehow start to feel normal?And where’s the line between discipline, coping mechanism, identity, and unhealthy obsession?This isn’t a clinical conversation and we’re definitely not pretending to be experts — it’s simply an open discussion based on lived experience, ultra running culture, alcohol, mental health, validation, and the role running can sometimes play in helping people switch off, process stress, or escape life for a while.Coaching enquiries⁠⁠ Support the show via ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and buy us a coffee.We’re proud to be supported by: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BV Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Näak Nutrition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.⁠⁠Trailskin⁠⁠ get 20% off with TTFS_20Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

In this ep, Max, Sarah and Rob are joined by Karla Borland — a runner whose results over the last 12 months have been steadily climbing, putting her firmly on the trajectory to becoming one of the standout performers in UK ultra running.In that time, Karla has put together some seriously impressive performances:4th place at the South Downs Way 100 in 17:52 in a stacked field1st place at the Hundred Hills 50 in 4:37And most recently, the win at the Centurion Thames Path 100 in 17:21Thames Path is a unique kind of brutal — flat, fast, and relentless. There’s nowhere to hide. It becomes less about surviving the terrain, and more about holding pace, managing efficiency, and staying locked in for the long haul.In this episode, we get into:How Karla prepared for a race where you’re running so much of itWhat it takes to compete — and win — at the sharp end of a 100 milerHow her training and mindset have evolved over the past yearWhat’s driven that jump in performanceAnd of course, we’ve got our usual mix of celeb pacer, truth-or-lie, and a quickfire round to finish.Coaching enquiries⁠ Support the show via ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and buy us a coffee.We’re proud to be supported by: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BV Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Näak Nutrition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.⁠Trailskin⁠ get 20% off with TTFS_20Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

Anxiety in running is far more common than most people admit — and when we asked you about it on Instagram, the response was big.In this episode, it’s just us — no guest — having a proper, honest conversation about the different types of anxiety runners experience. From imposter syndrome and fear of injury, to getting lost mid-race, toilet disasters and Strava anxiety.We break it all down — what these anxieties actually look like, why they show up, and how we deal with them both as runners and from a coaching perspective. Some of it’s serious, some of it’s surprisingly funny, but all of it is real when you’re in the moment.We also touch briefly on the recent UTMB Index changes and what they might (or might not) mean for everyday runners.If you’ve ever stood on a start line questioning yourself, overthought a long run, or worried about something going wrong… this one will probably resonate.If it does, send it to someone who might need to hear it.Coaching enquiries⁠⁠ Support the show via ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and buy us a coffee.We’re proud to be supported by: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BV Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Näak Nutrition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.⁠⁠Trailskin⁠⁠ get 20% off with TTFS_20Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

What happens when you combine young kids, an international move, and one of the toughest endurance races on the planet?In this episode, Max and Sarah were joined by Josie Kaufmann and Michael Canil — a husband and wife duo who recently relocated from Australia to rural France and took on the legendary Marathon des Sables.Often called the “toughest footrace on Earth,” MDS is a self-sufficient, multi-stage ultramarathon across the Sahara Desert — testing not just physical endurance, but planning, resilience, and mindset.But this episode goes far beyond the race itself.We dive into:How they balanced family life and training for an extreme multi-stage ultraWhat it really takes to prepare for Marathon des SablesThe logistics of racing self-sufficient in the desertThe highs, the low points, and the moments that nearly broke themWhat it’s like to go through something like this together as a coupleJosie is coached by Max, which adds an extra layer to the conversation as we unpack how training translated into the reality of the Sahara.With Michael coming from a strong Ironman background and Josie stepping into her first major endurance event, this is a story of two very different journeys meeting at the same start line.Expect honest reflections, a few laughs, and plenty of insight into resilience, pacing, and mindset when things get seriously tough.Plus, we’ve got our usual mix of icebreakers, truth-or-lie, and a quickfire round to finish.Coaching enquiries⁠ Support the show via ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and buy us a coffee.We’re proud to be supported by: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BV Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Näak Nutrition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.⁠Trailskin⁠ get 20% off with TTFS_20Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

When a race disappears… do you still show up?In this episode, we sit down with ultra runner Kirsty Taylor to unpack one of the most unique and unpredictable race experiences you’ll hear this year.Kirsty recently took on the Sea to Sea — a brutal 300km challenge — but this wasn’t quite the experience she signed up for. Just weeks before the start, Ourea Events ceased trading, throwing plans into chaos and leaving runners facing a completely different reality. What followed was a stripped-back event delivered under Centurion, where Kirsty took on the route fully self-supported, with no crew, no aid station or drop bag, and limited infrastructure.We dive into what that actually looked like on the ground:How her approach changed overnightThe logistics of racing without aid stationsMoments where pulling out felt like the logical choiceAnd power of community support along the wayWe also explore Kirsty’s journey into ultra running — from 100k and 100 mile races to stepping up into the unknown of 300km — and what she’s learned about resilience, preparation, and decision-making when you’re deep in it and on your own.As always, expect a mix of:Honest storytellingIcebreakersTruth or LieQuickfire questionsIf you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to go self-supported — or how you respond when a race doesn’t go to plan — this one’s for you.Coaching enquiries Support the show via ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and buy us a coffee.We’re proud to be supported by: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BV Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Näak Nutrition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

This episode is about the people you don’t always see… but who make everything possible.We’re joined by Louise Fraser — a long-time volunteer and familiar face in the Centurion Running community. If you’ve ever run a Centurion race, chances are she’s been there at an aid station — handing you a cup of Coke, filling flasks, offering a bit of calm, and delivering exactly the words you needed at the right moment.We dive into:What really goes on behind the scenes at ultra racesThe humour, and powerful moments of volunteeringWhat runners don’t realise (but should)Louise’s journey from supporting thousands of runners to taking on Hundred Hills 50k herselfWhy volunteering might be the most meaningful way to be part of this sportPlus our usual mix of icebreakers, truth-or-lie, and a volunteer-themed quickfire round.This one’s about community, perspective, and the moments that keep people moving when it matters most.Support the show via ⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠and buy us a coffee.We’re proud to be supported by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BV Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Näak Nutrition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.For ⁠⁠⁠coaching enquiries⁠⁠⁠.Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

This week we’re joined by Dutch ultra runner Noor Van der Veen, who has taken on some of the most demanding races on the planet — including Tor des Géants, Arc of Attrition 100 ), UTMB, and a full FKT of the Pyrenees. Most recently, she stepped up to the start line of the legendary Barkley Marathons.We dive into her background, her mindset, and what it really takes to tackle extreme endurance challenges. Plus — our usual icebreakers and a quickfire round to finish.This episode is supported by Runr — a UK-based running brand built by runners, for runners.Runr started in 2016 with a simple idea: helping runners recognise runners. That quiet nod on a cold morning. That shared understanding at mile 18.They create lightweight, sweat-wicking technical hats designed to stay secure mile after mile — and their race number magnets mean no more safety pins, no holes in your favourite race tee, and no interference with timing chips.🎉 We’re also running a giveaway over on Instagram — you can win a Runr technical hat plus a set of race magnets. Head to our Instagram and follow the instructions to enter.Love running? Wear Runr.Support the show via ⁠⁠⁠Patroen ⁠⁠⁠and buy us a coffee.We’re proud to be supported by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BV Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Näak Nutrition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.For ⁠⁠coaching enquiries⁠⁠.Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

This week on Trails, Tales & Fails, we’re joined by Ben Potts — ultra runner, friend, and fresh off an incredible 12th-place finish at the Full Spine.The Full Spine is one of the toughest endurance races on the planet: 268 miles/431km, 10,700m+ of elevation, winter conditions, sleep deprivation, and relentless forward motion. Ben takes us inside the race — how he prepared, how he managed fatigue over multiple days, the mental battles that matter most, and what events like the Spine and Dragon’s Back teach you about yourself when you’re pushed to the edge.We talk training, decision-making under extreme fatigue, lessons learned from multi-day ultras, and what draws runners back to these brutal challenges again and again.As always, we finish with our usual icebreakers, truth-or-lie, and a quickfire round.Follow the podcast, leave a review if you enjoy it, and join the Trails, Tales & Fails Strava club — link in the show notes.We’re giving away a RealMeal Endurance Pack on Instagram — running until 22nd February. Head to our Instagram page and check out the giveaway post to enter.Support the show via ⁠⁠Patroen ⁠⁠and buy us a coffee.We’re proud to be supported by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BV Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Näak Nutrition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.For ⁠coaching enquiries⁠.Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

In ultra running, your brain isn’t just one voice — it’s two.🐒 The Chimp: Emotional, impulsive, scared of pain and discomfort. It wants to stop when things get tough.🧑‍💼 The Human: Logical, goal-focused, calm under pressure. It knows the long game and pushes through.The trick?Don’t fight your Chimp — work WITH it.✅ Acknowledge when your Chimp screams “Quit!”✅ Calm it down with positive self-talk and reminders of your why✅ Let your Human plan, pace, and focus on progress✅ Use your Chimp’s energy — channel fear and frustration into determinationUltras aren’t just physical — they’re a mental battle.Master your inner Chimp, and the miles become your playground.What’s your go-to way to calm your Chimp mid-run? Drop it below! 👇Support the show via ⁠Patroen ⁠and buy us a coffee.We’re proud to be supported by ⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by ⁠⁠⁠⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠BV Sports⁠⁠⁠⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠⁠⁠⁠Näak Nutrition⁠⁠⁠⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.For coaching enquiries.Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

In this episode, Max and Rob are joined by Dave from TrailSkin — ultra runner, founder, and someone who knows firsthand what the trails can throw at you.Dave has completed races including the Arc of Attrition and UTS 100k, and this year returned to the Arc 100, where brutal conditions brought by Storm Ingrid forced many runners, including Dave, to make the difficult decision to stop at Land’s End.We talk honestly about foot care, skin care, and why they matter in ultras and the story behind TrailSkin and how it grew from real trail-running problemsThis episode is supported by TrailSkin, a UK-based, all-natural performance skincare brand trusted by runners at races including the Spine, UTMB, Dragons Back, Cape Wrath Ultra, and more.Giveaway: TrailSkin are offering listeners the chance to win an Ultra Bundle worth £47 — head to our Instagram for entry details end (15/2/26)Support the show via Patroen and buy us a coffee.We’re proud to be supported by ⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by ⁠⁠⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠⁠⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠⁠⁠BV Sports⁠⁠⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠⁠⁠Näak Nutrition⁠⁠⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. Let’s get into it.

This week, we’re joined by Ben O'Connell, who many of you will already know from the coaching world and from YouTube, where he shares practical, grounded advice for runners of all abilities. Ben has taken on some iconic ultras — from Centurion 50‑milers to the South Downs Way 100, and the Swiss Alpes 100 — but this weekend, he stepped up to one of Britain’s most notorious winter races: the Arc of Attrition 100.And this year’s Arc wasn’t just tough — it was savage.Storm Ingrid brought 60–65mph gusts, torrential rain, flooding, and conditions that turned the Cornish coast path into a test of pure survival. Ben battled through the storm, into the night, and all the way to Land’s End before making the difficult decision to stop at mile 55. A DNF is never easy, but with over 60% of runners not making it to the finish, this is a story worth telling.In this episode, we dive into the weekend, the weather, the decision, the lessons, and the Arc experience as a whole. We talk about what the race taught him, how he approaches big efforts as both an athlete and a coach, and what comes next.Plus, we’ve got our usual mix of icebreakers, truth‑or‑lie, and a quickfire round to wrap things up.We’re proud to be supported by ⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by ⁠⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠⁠BV Sports⁠⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠⁠Näak Nutrition⁠⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies. Let’s get into it.

This week on Trails, Tales & Fails, we’re joined by co-host Sarah Page, fresh off an incredible performance at the Montane Winter Spine Challenger South 2026.In her first-ever Spine, Sarah claimed 1st female, 3rd overall, and ran the fastest women’s time ever recorded on the Challenger South, stopping the clock at 29:03 — nearly 40 minutes quicker than the previous best.All of this came in truly brutal conditions. Storm Goretti dumped snow across the Pennine Way early on, followed by driving wind, rain, and ice through Saturday night and into Sunday. Classic Spine weather.We break the race down in detail:The emotional build-up to her first SpineSnow, darkness, navigation, and the mental grind of the night sectionA pivotal 40-minute stop at Hebden BridgeRunning deep into the race with Rich BryarsPicking off competitors and opening a decisive gapDiversionsA tense podium battle in the icy final milesSarah reflects on the highs, lows, lessons learned, and what this race revealed about her as an athlete — and answers the big question:👉 Does this performance tempt her toward Challenger North… or even the full Spine Race?An honest, insightful deep dive into one of the standout performances of the winter ultra season.We’re proud to be supported by ⁠Protein Rebel⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by ⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠BV Sports⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠Näak Nutrition⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

Welcome back to Trails, Tales, and Fails — the podcast where we celebrate the highs, the lows, and everything in between on the ultra-running journey.Today’s episode is a little different. It’s just the three of us — Max, Rob, and Sarah — catching up, talking training, and looking back on 2025 with a fun (and slightly chaotic) quiz based on our previous guests. Expect confident guesses, very shaky answers, and a surprising amount of disorder.We also dive into where everyone’s at right now:Sarah is deep into her build-up for the Spine Challenger South, juggling winter miles, kit admin, and long dark days.Rob is gearing up for the Arc 100, while Max is preparing for the Arc 25.We talk honestly about training through winter — the highs, the setbacks, the kit that’s actually working, and the mindset shifts needed when motivation dips and conditions get tough. As always, we share lessons and tips that might help you navigate your own winter running.We’re proud to be supported by ⁠Protein Rebel⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by ⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠BV Sports⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠Näak Nutrition⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

Ultras aren’t usually lost because you’re not fit enough — they’re lost because of one bad decision made when you’re tired, cold, or emotional.In this week’s Ultra Tip Tuesday, we introduce the Traffic Light Decision System: a simple framework to help you make smarter calls during long runs and race day.Learn how to:Keep moving when things are greenMonitor and manage problems early when they’re amberAct immediately when things turn red — no ego, no delayThis episode is all about staying calm, avoiding unnecessary stops, and knowing when stopping is the smartest move you can make.Train smart. Race smart. Finish strong.For coaching enquiries, DM me on Instagram or ⁠click here⁠.We’re proud to be supported by ⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by ⁠⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠⁠BV Sports⁠⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠⁠Näak Nutrition⁠⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails, we dig into one of the smartest — and most overlooked — ways to build race‑day confidence: training on terrain that actually mirrors your goal route. Rocky, muddy, flat, hilly, or wildly technical, every surface teaches your body something different.In this Ultra Tip Tuesday episode, we break down how to sharpen your weaknesses early in the training cycle, build durability without pressure, and dial in true race‑day specificity as your event approaches. You’ll learn how to balance technical skill‑building with injury prevention, get creative when you don’t have access to the perfect trails, and discover why even one long run on race‑like terrain can transform your confidence.If you want fewer surprises on race day — physically and mentally — this episode gives you the blueprint for showing up ready, not rattled.For coaching enquiries, DM me on Instagram or click here.We’re proud to be supported by ⁠Protein Rebel⁠ — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by ⁠Beta Outdoor Sports⁠, where you can get 10% off ⁠BV Sports⁠ compression and apparel, plus 10% off ⁠Näak Nutrition⁠ products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.Don’t forget to⁠⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

Trish Patterson joins us fresh off her incredible Winter Dragon’s Back FKT — a huge achievement made even more impressive by the rocky road leading up to it. Weeks before the attempt, Trish sprained her ankle. Then came missed training weeks, lingering fatigue, and a build‑up that was anything but smooth.In this episode, we dive into Trish’s journey: how she handled setbacks, what the Winter Dragon demanded physically and mentally, the conditions underfoot, pacing decisions, crew strategy, and the mindset required to keep pushing when the plan falls apart. We also explore recovery, long‑term health, and what it takes to stay motivated through big efforts.We’re proud to be supported by Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15 — and by Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.Don’t forget to⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

Jade Barrett has taken endurance to extraordinary heights. In 2025 she completed the Centurion Double Slam on her way to running every Centurion event in a single year. She also raced the legendary ⁠Arc 100⁠ in January. Most recently, Jade conquered the Winter Downs 200, finishing in an astonishing 76 hours and 58 minutes.This year’s Winter Downs was one for the history books, with Caspian James setting an epic course record of 43:38. Against that backdrop, Jade’s own finish was a masterclass in resilience, pacing, and determination.In this episode of Trails, Tales, and Fails, we dive into Jade’s race experience: the conditions and the mental and physical strategies that carried her through nearly 77 hours of running. We also explore how she balances recovery, crew support, and the sheer mental toughness required for this scale of mileage.While this time of year is exciting for many, we know Christmas can be difficult for some. If you’re finding December tough or feeling a bit lonely, you’re welcome to reach out on Instagram for a friendly chat.If this episode inspires you, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies — it really helps the show grow.Don’t forget to⁠ click here⁠ to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.We are proud to be partnered with Protein Rebel. Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

From signing up to her first ultra with just three days’ notice, to conquering the legendary Dragon’s Back and setting multiple Fastest Known Times, Lizzie — better known as Ultra Mad Lizzie — has built a reputation for resilience, grit, and determination.In this episode of Trails, Tales, and Fails, Lizzie shares her journey through the unique world of backyard ultras — a format that tests mental strength as much as physical endurance — and her recent victory at the notorious Copthorne 100, a race infamous for its brutally low finish rate.Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.Lizzie is a proud ambassador for Protein Rebel and sponsored by Snack’d — fuelling epic endurance feats with sustainable energy.If this episode inspires you, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies — it really helps the show grow.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

In this episode, Max and Rob chat to fellow Protein Rebel ambassador, Alex Bance, who didn’t just run an ultra — he ran 300 miles, self-navigated, unrecced, and with minimal support, all to raise money and awareness for a children’s hospice close to his heart, Julia's House.We unpack the soaring highs to the crushing lows, kit disasters, hallucinations, moments of kindness, and the mental resilience needed to keep moving when everything says stop.Expect raw honesty, wild stories, training insights, and lessons for anyone looking to push beyond their perceived limits.If this episode inspires you, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies — it really helps the show grow.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

Charlotte Fisher is having a breakout year — and we’re here for it. From her early win at North Downs Way 100 to podiums at UTS, Lakeland, and Mallorca by UTMB, she’s proving she’s one of the fiercest rising stars on the European ultra scene. In this episode, Charlotte opens up about the highs and lows of racing 140KM through technical terrain in Mallorca, how she’s evolved as an athlete in 2025, and what keeps her grounded when the trails get tough. We dive into training shifts, recovery rituals, race-day mindset, and yes — her guilty pleasure post-race treat. Whether you’re chasing your own ultra goals or just love hearing how the best do it, this one’s packed with insight, grit, and inspiration.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

This week we sit down with Charlie Steward — fresh off what many are calling the worst conditions in Moab 240 history. Think rain, snow, high winds, falling trees, and actual mountain lions. Charlie says the race broke him in every single way — physically, mentally, emotionally — and yes, he really did cut open his own feet mid-race to relieve pressure.We talk Ironman roots, hallucinations, sleep strategy (or lack of), and what it takes to survive 238 miles of chaos through Utah’s desert and mountains. It’s raw, intense, and a masterclass in suffering with purpose.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

This week on Trails, Tails and Fails, Rob and Sarah relive the Jurassic Coast Maverick 50K — a race full of coastal climbs, wrong turns, and one spectacular kit fail that nearly ended things before the start line. Sarah took the win and Rob had a great run to take 10th.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

Ellen Cheetham went from London roads to French mountain trails — and landed on the podium at UTMB Nice 100 miler. In this episode, we unpack her transition to ultra running, the move to France, and what it takes to race 165 km from the Alps to the Mediterranean.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

This week, we’re talking pacing — the skill that separates finishers from faders. Whether you’re running a 50K or a 100-miler, smart pacing protects your body from bonking, inflammation, and breakdown.We dive into the science behind restraint:Glycogen depletion and why fat-burning isn’t enoughCardiac drift and rising effort over timeMuscle fatigue, form collapse, and injury riskGut shutdown when blood flow prioritises your legs over digestionWhy walking early climbs can save your race laterPlus: the talk test, segment thinking, and why patience is power.💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails, Max, Sarah Rob are joined by Victoria Henderson, fresh off her heroic finish at the Tor des Géants — a 330km monster through the Italian Alps with over 24,000m of elevation gain. That’s 145 hours of sleep deprivation, technical climbs, and weather that can swing from blazing heat to alpine snow.We break down the race step by step, score it using our Race Toughness Index, and dive into training, and finish-line emotions. Plus: celebrity pacers, truth or lie, ultra guilty pleasures, and a quickfire round.Victoria’s ultra resume is stacked: CCC 2021, TDS, 5th at Winter Downs 200, and 17th at Arc 100 earlier this year. But TDG? That’s a whole new level.👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails, Max and Sarah are joined by Seb Briggs and Emma Harris, fresh off their epic 37-hour, 57-minute finish of the Kerry Way Ultra. That’s 200km of Irish wilderness, bogs, climbs, and unpredictable weather. We break down the race step by step, score it using our Race Toughness Index, and dive into training, fails, and finish-line emotions. Plus: celebrity pacers, truth or lie, ultra guilty pleasures, and a quickfire round that reveals more than you'd expect.Seb and Emma are part of the George & Falcon Runners, a friendly, inclusive trail running crew based in Hampshire. They meet regularly for social runs, training sessions, and big race adventures. 👉 Join our ⁠⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

This week on Ultra Tip Tuesday, Max dives into one of the most overlooked performance boosters in ultra running: sleep. From muscle repair and glycogen replenishment to mental resilience and injury prevention, sleep is your secret weapon. Learn how to optimise your sleep routine, avoid common pitfalls like caffeine and screen time, and treat rest like the training block it truly is. Your legs will thank you.💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.Use code TTF15 at ⁠⁠Protein Rebel⁠⁠ for your 15% discount.

Welcome back to Trails, Tales, and Fails! This week’s Ultra Tip Tuesday is all about the unsung heroes of your stride — your calves. Whether you're climbing, descending, or cruising through long miles, your calves are working overtime.We break down the difference between the gastrocnemius and the soleus, why most runners neglect one of them, and how to train both for better performance, injury prevention, and smoother movement. From straight-leg to bent-knee calf raises, we’ve got the tips to build bulletproof lower legs.🎙️ Want to support the pod? Check out our Patreon in the show notes.👟 Join our Facebook community to share your strength wins and fails — we’ve all had both.

In this week’s Ultra Tip Tuesday, I'm diving into one of the most overlooked keys to endurance success: fuelling early and often. Whether you’re training for your first ultra or your fiftieth, timing your nutrition is just as important as what you eat.I’ll break down why waiting until you’re hungry is too late, how to keep your energy steady with small, frequent fuel hits, and how to train your gut to handle fuel on the move. From gels to real food, this episode is all about keeping your engine running strong — and avoiding the dreaded bonk.

This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails, Max flies solo and is joined by returning guest Daniel, fresh off completing the 130-mile Leeds–Liverpool Canal Race.We dive into:UTMB 2025 — snow at 2,500 m, frozen hands at night, and nearly 1,000 DNFs. With Tom Evans storming to victory, Josh Wade taking 3rd, and Courtney grinding through injury to finish 10th, it was a year of resilience as much as speed.The Leeds–Liverpool Canal Race — Daniel takes us step by step through 130 miles of towpaths and mental battles.Race Toughness Index (RTI) — our brand-new scoring system breaking races down across 10 categories (terrain, weather, aid stations, fatigue, etc.) for a total toughness score out of 100. Daniel gives the Canal Race its first ever official rating.Quickfire round — bucket-list races, forgotten kit, irrational pre-race rituals, and more.👉 Join our ⁠⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠⁠Patreon ⁠⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.Use code TTF15 at ⁠Protein Rebel⁠ for your 15% discount.

Max and Sarah sit down with elite ultra runner and passionate coach Chris Kelly. From his jaw-dropping 273km win at Albi 24hr to course records and podiums across the UK, Chris shares the mindset, training, and grit behind his success — including his selection for Team GB’s 24-hour squad and prep for the upcoming World Championships in Albi. We dive into coaching insights, play our usual games, and explore what it really takes to go the distance.👉 Join our ⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠Patreon ⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.Use code TTF15 at Protein Rebel for your 15% discount.

Welcome to our very first Ultra Tip Tuesday! In this short, practical episode, Max shares how to master layering so you stay warm, dry, and strong on the trails.We’ll break down the three-layer system:🧥 Base layer – sweat manager🧣 Mid layer – insulation🌧️ Shell – outer defenseYou’ll learn about hydrostatic head, why breathability matters as much as waterproofing, and the common mistake most runners make at the start line.👉 Key takeaway: Start cool, go windproof when it’s dry, save the waterproofs for biblical weather.👉 Join our ⁠Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community⁠ to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our ⁠Patreon ⁠— every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.🎧 Don’t forget to share the episode, leave us a rating, and help spread the word!

This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails we’re joined by Darren Evans, founder of The Green Runners and Pair Ups — two movements changing the way we think about running and sustainability.We dive into:🏃 Darren’s ultra running journey and what inspired him to combine running with environmental action👟 How Pair Ups helps extend the life of trainers and cut down waste🌱 Practical steps runners and races can take to reduce their footprint📝 Darren’s creative side with Three Word Odes — capturing the spirit of running in just three wordsIt’s an inspiring reminder that small changes — from repairing shoes to rethinking events — can add up to a big difference for the planet we love to explore.👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.💚 If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, check out our Patreon — every bit helps us keep sharing stories from the trails.🎧 Don’t forget to share the episode, leave us a rating, and help spread the word!

268 miles. 155 hours. A few wrong turns. One bull. And a whole lot of grit and resilience.In this episode of Trails, Tales & Fails, we sit down with an inspiring ultra runner who took on the Summer Spine and came out the other side with blisters, stories, and a finish line moment to remember. From getting lost in the forest, to stubborn livestock, and the mental rollercoaster of non-stop movement — this conversation is raw, funny, and extremely inspiring.We talk feet, planning, hallucinations, sleep strategy, and how belief — both from within and from others — can get you to the end of even the longest trail.An inspiring reminder that you don’t need to be at the front of the pack to have an epic story to tell.⁠Join our brand-new Facebook community group

We’re back — and this week we’re diving deep into one of the toughest and most well supported ultras in the UK: the Montane Lakeland 100.From Coniston to Coniston, the 103-mile loop through the Lake District serves up over 6,000m of elevation, technical trails, and usually unpredictable weather. Max and Sarah relive this year’s race:, sleep-deprived hallucinations, brutal climbs, and that unbeatable community spirit from all involved.Sarah shares what it took to finish 3rd female and 13th overall in 24h40m, and we answer some great listener questions too.Also, a shout out to Daniel and Rebecca, who we met at the campsite. Congrats to Daniel for getting his 500 slate.Join our brand-new Facebook community group Alan Bedford is raising money for Maggie's Centres⭐ Like the pod? Please share and give us a 5-star review — it helps more than you know.

From the West Highland Way to UTMB, the Spine Race to Western States—Debbie Martin-Consani has carved out one of the most enduring careers in UK ultra running. In this episode of Trails, Tales, and Fails, we go behind the finish lines to explore Debbie’s journey, her race philosophy, and how she’s balanced competition, coaching, and family across decades on the trails.We also dive into the whether female participation is becoming more balanced compared to male counterparts —what’s changed, what’s still missing, and what might start to level the start line.Whether you're new to ultras or deep in the sport, this one’s packed with stories and the kind of trail truth you’ll carry into your next race. Enjoy.

We’re back! After a bit of a hiatus (training, coaching, crewing — life got busy!), Max, Rob, and James are here, while Sarah preps to take on the Lakeland 100. This episode dives deep into the grit, gear, and glory of summer’s toughest ultras.We kick off with the Lakeland 100 & 50 — what makes it so brutal yet iconic? James shares his race mindset, and we chat about self-supported prep, and how runners handle mental lows without crew or course markings.Then it’s off to the heat of the Western States 100 and Badwater 135 — where bears, 45°C heat, and elite performances from UK runners took centre stage. We also pause to reflect on the tragic events at this year’s Hardrock 100.Finally, we break down Dan Lawson’s awe-inspiring South West Coast Path FKT: 630 miles in 9 days, 13 hours — no big sponsors, just trail shoes, guts, and a lot of trust in his crew.Expect laughs, deep dives, and maybe a few rants — just your usual dose of Trails, Tales, and Fails.📲 Follow, share, and drop us a rating if you enjoy the show!

Today’s episode is a special one. We’re diving into the 2025 South Downs Way 100—a race that’s not just a UK classic anymore, but now part of the World Trail Majors. That’s right, the SDW100 has officially gone global.While the front of the field was electric—Mark Darbyshire shattered the course record, Peter Newman went out like a rocket, and Lucy Gossage and Julie Davis delivered one of the most thrilling women’s races we’ve seen—we’re zooming in on a different kind of hero.Our guest is a good mate, cohost of the pod, a seasoned ultra-runner, and someone I had the absolute pleasure of crewing alongside co-host Sarah. He ran a blistering 19 hours and 13 minutes, and we’re unpacking the hot, emotional, and snack-fuelled miles that got him there.From the early climbs through the rolling Downs, to the dark hours of the night, to the final push into Eastbourne—we talk strategy, suffering, aid station saviours, and yes, a few fails along the way.So lace up, grab a flapjack, and let’s get into it.

In this episode, we’re joined by local legend and friend of the pod Dave Harvey — ultra runner, metal guitarist, mental health champion, and co-host of our favourite local show: The Portsmouth Running Podcast.From shredding riffs in Belligerence to shredding trails at UTMB, TDS, Lakeland 100, Western States, and every Centurion race going, Dave’s journey is nothing short of epic.We dive into:Winning Cardiff to London and The TunnelLogging 200-milers on Strava as “Morning run” 😎His love of posh coffee and hatred for ColdplayThe crossover between music, mindset, and mental healthBehind the scenes of SMOGATHON — the greatest unofficial race you’ve never heard ofAnd plenty of tales from the trails, riffs, and aid stationsSo lace up, plug in, and get ready to step inside the mind of a man who lives loud, runs long, and lifts others along the way.🔥 Like the pod? Leave a review and share it with your crew — especially your local running mates in Portsmouth and beyond!

In this episode of Trails, Tales & Fails, we delve into the remarkable journey of Susie Chan—a Peloton instructor, ultramarathoner, social media influencer, and award-winning author. From her humble beginnings to conquering some of the world's most gruelling races, such as Badwater 135 and MdS. Susie's story is a testament to the power of determination and resilience. Her memoir, Trails and Tribulations: The Running Adventures of Susie Chan, recently won the Sports Performance Book of the Year at the 2025 Charles Tyrwhitt Sports Book Awards . Join us as we explore her evolution from someone who did not run to becoming a beacon of inspiration in the endurance community.

In this episode, we sit down with UK ultra talent Becky Perrett, fresh off a phenomenal 5th place finish at the UTS 100 miler — one of the toughest mountain ultras in the UK, with over 31,000ft (9,500m) of elevation gain.We chat about:What it takes to train for massive mountain ultrasRacing the UTS 100K vs the 100MBeing coached by Jack ScottHer biggest lessons, fails, and moments of grit along the wayIf you love mountains, mud, and relentless climbs — this one’s for you.🎙️ Follow, share, and leave a review to keep the pod growing!

In this ep, we’re joined by Paul from Performance Gains Nutrition — a performance nutritionist, university lecturer, and ultra runner with over 80 ultras under his belt, including the UTMB TDS, Bob Graham Round, and Northern Traverse.In this episode, we discuss gut training tips and strategies.Plus, we hit Paul with our trademark podcast gauntlet:🔥 Truth or Lie⚡ Quickfire Round🏃‍♂️ Celebrity Pacer🍫 Guilty PleasurePacked with laughs, insight, and no-nonsense advice from a guy who’s lived it — in the lab and on the trails.🔗 Follow Paul on Instagram: @ultra.endurance.nutritionist🌐 performancegainsnutrition.comIf you enjoy the episode, give us a share and leave a star review. It helps us reach more runners and tell more trail stories.

In this episode, we’re joined by David Miller, one of the most respected visual storytellers in the sport. A passionate runner turned award-winning photographer, David’s images from races like UTMB and the Barkley Marathons have become iconic — including the now-legendary shot of Jasmin Paris slumped under the yellow gate.We chat about:David’s experience at Barkley and UTMBWhat makes a powerful ultra running photoHis own racing highlights — including the ARC50 and UTMB IstriaHis celebrity pacer picks, guilty pleasures, and a game of truth or lie🎁 We’re also giving away a signed copy of David’s bestselling photo book Do Not Block Gate — head over to our Instagram @TrailsTalesAndFails to enter.If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating and share — it really helps us grow.

This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails, we sit down with one of the most consistent and inspiring forces in the ultra world — Andy Glaze. A full-time firefighter, father, and ultra runner, Andy has racked up over 250 consecutive weeks of 100+ mile training — and he's still smiling.We dive into his epic Arizona 300 adventure, how he manages sleep deprivation, why kindness beats trolls, and the real mental tools that keep him moving through five-day races and daily chaos. From hallucinations and guilty pleasures to social media noise and the secret to sore feet recovery, Andy discusses it with honesty, humour, and heart.Plus: celebrity pacer, guilty pleasures, fails, quickfire round, and the ultimate advice he’d give his younger self before his first ultra. Whether you’re chasing your first ultra or your first 100-mile week, this episode is packed with the grit, laughs, and real talk you need.🎧 Grab your running shoes — and maybe some tape for your feet — and join us for a wild ride with Andy Glaze.

In this episode of Trails, Tales, and Fails, we sit down with the ultra-running legend who became the first UK athlete to complete the Triple Crown of 200s in 2023 — and now he’s crushed the 304-mile Arizona 300, finishing 9th in just over 101 hours.We dive deep into why Scott got into ultra running, and the highs, lows, hallucinations, and heatstroke of his epic races — plus what drives him to keep taking on the biggest, baddest ultras on the calendar. Expect tales of pain and a lot of grit.CELEB PACER: Who would Scott choose to run a scorching desert leg with him? His answer might surprise you.TRUTH OR LIE: Scott hits us with two outrageous statements — can we figure out what’s real and what’s pure ultra fiction?QUICKFIRE ROUND: Hallucinations, dream races, go-to snacks, and why he might just choose cold weather over hot.If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to run through day and night for four days straight — this one’s for you. Buckle up.

From multiple Centurion 100-mile podiums to wins at the Arc100 and the Centurion Winter Downs 200, Laura Swanton-Rouvelin is one of the toughest names in UK ultra running. She’s also a Spine Race finisher—not just once, but three times—completing both the Winter and Summer editions. And just two months after this year’s brutal Winter Spine, she landed 3rd at the 2025 Northern Traverse.In this episode, we dive into how Laura prepares for these huge efforts, how she recovers and stays injury-free, and what keeps her going through dark winter miles and wild terrain.

This week on Trails, Tales, and Fails, we’re joined by the epic Holly Stables—former GB marathoner turned ultra adventurer.From Comrades and UTMB to The Speed Project Solo, Holly ran 500km from LA to Vegas. Minimal sleep, 40°C heat, and one crazy adventure.We dive into the highs, lows, mental battles, wild moments, and what this epic challenge taught her.Short on sleep, full of stories—this one’s unmissable.🎧 Like, share, and review to keep the pod growing!

In this ep, we’re joined by the incredible Fi Pascall, fresh off her win at UTMB Chianti 100 miles, securing her golden tickets to UTMB and Western States! But that’s not all—Fi is also the founder of Trail Retreats, a weekend escape where runners can immerse themselves in stunning trails, food, and expert insights into ultra-running.In this episode, we put Fi to the test with our favourite game: ‘Truth or Lie’—can we figure out which of her statements are fact and which are total fiction?So, settle in and get ready for an epic conversation filled with ultra-running wisdom, behind-the-scenes race stories, and plenty of laughs. Let’s go! 🎙️🔥

In this episode, we’re joined by Kallum Pritchard, fresh off an impressive second-place finish at the Hundred Hills 50k. We’ll hear about how this year’s race played out compared to 2024, the race dynamics with fellow contender Joseph Turner. Plus, we’ll discuss the infamous Barkley Marathons, which is currently happening—arguably the toughest ultra race in the world. Grab a seat and get ready for some inspiration, laughter, and lessons learned from the trail!