One More K

n this episode, we take a wild run through the ever-evolving world of trail running, guided by none other than the legendary Killian Jornet. Imagine trail running at the Olympics—yes, you heard that right! We explore how this could transform the sport from a rugged, mud-splattered adventure into a polished, global spectacle. But don't worry, we also dive into the grassroots side, where local races and community vibes keep the spirit of trail running alive and kicking, like a pair of well-worn trail shoes.We also tackle the financial side of things, revealing the hidden economics behind elite trail running. From sponsorships to influencer earnings, we uncover how athletes are navigating the tricky trails of income and fame. And let's not forget the rise of the "triathlonification" of trail running—because who doesn't love a good mash-up of sports? So lace up your shoes, grab your hydration pack, and join us for a journey through the twists and turns of trail running's future. It's a run you won't want to miss!

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating journey of Jacob Zocherman, a photographer who transitioned from aspiring doctor to capturing the raw emotions of conflict zones and ultramarathons. (He is the one behind the famous Jasmine Paris image)Jacob shares his experiences of working in high-stress environments, the emotional toll it took on him, and how he found solace and balance through running photography. His unique perspective on empathy and connection allows him to capture iconic moments in ultrarunning, highlighting the communal spirit and resilience of the sport.Jacob's story is one of resilience and adaptability, as he navigates the challenges of photographing in both conflict zones and ultrarunning events. He discusses the importance of preparation, the role of luck, and the deep connections he forms with his subjects. Through his lens, Jacob captures not just images, but the essence of human experience, making his work both meaningful and impactful. This episode offers a profound insight into the life of a photographer who uses his craft to explore and document the world around him, while also finding personal growth and fulfilment.Learn more about Jacobwww.zocherman.comwww.searchingforzocherman.comhttps://www.instagram.com/searchingforzocherman/--Supported byhttps://www.getlecka.com/http://thesalesmovement.co/

Ned and Markus explore the rise of 200-mile races and the impact of social media on the sport’s growing mainstream appeal. They compare shoe brands to F1 teams, discussing how professional team dynamics and a new era of collective competition could redefine ultra running’s future.The conversation also tackles the integrity of the sport, addressing the controversial role of drugs and the necessity of fair play. While acknowledging these modern challenges, the hosts remain optimistic, celebrating the endurance and innovation driving this rapidly evolving chapter of ultra running.--Supported by:https://www.getlecka.com/https://thesalesmovement.co/

In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Rodrigue Hauwaerts, an 18-year-old HOKA athlete based in Guangzhou, China. Rodrigue shares his transition from obstacle course racing to trail running, his rigorous training in Kenya, and his aspirations in competitive running. The discussion also highlights the rapid growth of trail running in China and Rodrigue's personal goals during his gap year dedicated to the sport.

In this episode of the One More K podcast, hosts Ned and Markus delve into the evolving landscape of fitness technology, with a particular focus on Strava's role in the running community. They discuss the app's potential IPO and the implications of its business model, which currently relies heavily on premium subscribers. The conversation highlights the challenges Strava faces in balancing its identity as both a social media platform and a fitness tool, especially as it considers introducing advertisements to its free users.The hosts explore the cultural shifts in fitness habits, noting the growing popularity of walking and hiking among Gen Z users, and the increasing importance of fitness on vacations. They also touch on the economic factors influencing these trends, such as inflation and the prioritization of fitness spending over other expenses. Throughout the discussion, Ned and Markus provide insights into how these changes reflect broader societal trends and the potential for Strava to adapt and thrive in this dynamic environment.Finally, the episode examines the competitive landscape of fitness apps and the potential for Strava to expand its offerings through acquisitions or new features. The hosts speculate on the future of the app, considering possibilities like AI coaching and hardware development. They also discuss the importance of strategic hires and partnerships in shaping Strava's trajectory. With a blend of humor and thoughtful analysis, Ned and Markus offer listeners a comprehensive look at the intersection of technology, fitness, and business.

In this episode of the One More K podcast, hosts Ned and Markus explore the dynamic landscape of running, focusing on the recent surge in marathon participation and the challenges it presents. They delve into the complexities of organizing large-scale events, discussing issues like overcrowding and environmental impact, while also highlighting the positive aspects of increased interest in the sport. The conversation touches on the balance between maintaining the integrity of traditional races and adapting to the growing demand for participation.The hosts also examine the role of nature in shaping the future of running events. They discuss how environmental factors and changing weather patterns are influencing race planning and execution, emphasizing the need for adaptability and innovation in the face of these challenges. Markus shares insights on how nature's unpredictability can both limit and inspire new race formats, encouraging a deeper connection between runners and the natural world.Finally, Ned and Markus turn their attention to the rise of running influencers and the evolving concept of personal branding within the sport. They discuss how athletes are leveraging social media to build their own brands, shifting the traditional dynamics of sponsorship and marketing. The episode concludes with a reflection on the future of running, pondering the next big trends and the ongoing quest for new challenges and adventures in the running community.- Supported by https://www.getlecka.com/ and https://thesalesmovement.co/

We are joined by Alex Ang, one of Singapore's OG trail runners and president of the Singapore Ultra Runners Association.Alex gives us the latest insights from the Singapore and Asian trail running scene. In short, a lot is happening and young talent is emerging!He talks about his journey from being an ultra runner to starting the Singapore Ultra Runners Association. Going through many challenges to have Singapore represent at the Trail Running World Championships.Efforts are made to get trail running as part of the 2032 Olympic Games in Brisbane. Alex shares what is happening in the background for this dream to come true.Tune in to the episode - available on all major audio streaming platforms.

Ned and Markus wander through various topics, ask some hard questions and get quite philosophical. What sells better: the law of physics or the law of emotions?Is the UTMB Prize Money high enough? Or justified giving it is a small organisation?Is the internet democratising racing and it doesn't matter anymore if you are first or 1000th to become famous?It all comes down to storytelling.Also, a quick update on Lecka's expansion to the US and Markus' learnings operating in that market.And, Ned is launching a book. Called, guess what, One More K!www.getlecka.comhttps://thesalesmovement.co/

Stephanie is part of the core team of the Backyard Ultra World Championships. She is responsible for storytelling, brand management, and overall communications. Hence, she has seen the crazy growth, also behind the scenes, of this race across the world.Tune in to episode 55 to find out if Backyard has its UTMB moment, how they are managing brand partnerships, and how they are creating the right stories for various audiences. A must listen for any backyarder.Learn more about Stephanie here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniegillispaulgaardyeg/https://edmontonunlimited.com/Brought to you by Ned (https://thesalesmovement.co/), Markus (www.getlecka.com)

Ned and Markus look at the latest industry news in the trail and ultra running industry. A lot of news came out in the last few months that is worth commenting on.They have a go at:- Hoka revenue growth slows down- Athletes make 6-figure salaries- China limits the number of road races- UTMB acquires ZUT and gets more heat- Strava plans to file for an IPOLots to discuss. Tune in to hear the latest.

After a 10-month nap (or was it a taper?), we’re finally back with a new episode!This time, Ned’s wildest dream came true — he made it to the Backyard Ultra Individual World Championships… in Laz’s actual backyard!And he didn’t just show up — he absolutely smashed his personal record by 12 hours.In this episode, Ned spills all the details: the training, the prep, and the beautiful madness of running in circles for days.Meanwhile, Markus shares what it’s like crewing at the world’s most notorious backyard — caffeine, chaos, and all.We’re stoked to be back and can’t wait to bring you more stories from the wild world of ultra, trail, backyard, and beyond.Huge thanks to everyone who’s been cheering us on — you keep us lapping! 🌀🏃‍♂️

We are reviewing our predictions from episode 1 and discuss what were the key (business) themes of this exciting year in trail and endurance running. Also, we hand out the One More K Business Awards (voted by us) in various categories. Tune in to hear who made it on our list. Timestamps: (01:25) Review of Predictions for 2024 (09:00) The key themes of 2024 (12:00) The One More K Business Awards 2024 (12:20) Best Brand (15:08) Worst Brand (18:30) Best Marketing Campaign (21:30) Best Newcomer (23:46) Most Exciting Race (27:22) Biggest Loser (30:30) Biggest Winner (35:40) Best Documentary (39:20) Being grateful (42:30) Ned’s Drop – Brought to you by Lecka Nutrition (www.getlecka.com) Follow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_  Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onemorek_ Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.com Reach Out: [email protected] Watch On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OneMoreK_ Available on Apple Podcast, Spotify and other major platforms.  Hit the review button, subscribe and be part of our community. Thanks, Ned & Markus

Markus hosts Andy Farnworth and Hans Koeleman of Zen Running Club to discuss their mission to revolutionize running shoes. With backgrounds at Nike and decades in the industry, they share how Zen is breaking the mold by creating bio-based, compostable shoes that balance performance with sustainability. The duo explains the challenges of disrupting an industry reliant on petroleum-based materials, from engineering durable bio-fibers to educating consumers. They highlight Zen’s focus on community and storytelling, building a brand that’s as inclusive as it is innovative. Whether you’re into running, sustainability, or just great stories, this episode dives into the future of running gear and why eco-conscious design is the way forward. Timestamps: (00:25) Introduction Hans and Andy (04:50) Hans’ Mystical Miles Magazine (09:10) The story behind Zen Running Club (17:30) The different approach to designing a running shoe (28:18) Zen’s customer groups and stories (35:50) How to build a shoe brand business (40:58) The vision for Zen Running Club Show Notes: https://mysticalmiles.nl/ https://zenrunningclub.com/gb/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/hans-koeleman-oly-81a90a4/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-farnworth-897936a/ Brought to you by Lecka Nutrition (www.getlecka.com) Follow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_  Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onemorek_ Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.com Reach Out: [email protected] Watch On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OneMoreK_ Available on Apple Podcast, Spotify and other major platforms.  Hit the review button, subscribe and be part of our community. Thanks, Ned & Markus

Episode 50 of One More K is a milestone celebration for Markus and Ned, reflecting on the journey from starting out to becoming an “ultra-marathon” podcast. They revisit key themes from past episodes, like the evolving business of trail running, the passion behind ultra-endurance athletes, and how the sport’s growing popularity is shaping its future. The duo shares candid thoughts on industry trends, brand innovation, and even touch on quirky topics like AI in coaching and robot racing. Their humorous takes on government cuts to trail funding and the rise of trail lotteries keep the episode lively and relatable. Capping it off, Ned reads a heartfelt poem about the joy of podcasting and the parallels to running—a shared love that fuels their weekly conversations. With its mix of introspection, fun, and forward-thinking ideas, Episode 50 is a perfect blend of reflection and inspiration for endurance sports fans. Timestamps: (01:15) Review of the past episode (05:50) Investors in trail running (10:40) David Roche on the Rich Roll podcast (19:00) Ned’s ideas about storytelling (22:14) AI use cases in trail running (33:35) US hiring freeze in parks impacting trail runners (36:25) Western States lottery numbers (38:15) UTMB Chiang Mai taking place (40:00) Ned’s drop Brought to you by Lecka Nutrition (www.getlecka.com) Follow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_  Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onemorek_ Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.com Reach Out: [email protected] Watch On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OneMoreK_ Available on Apple Podcast, Spotify and other major platforms.  Hit the review button, subscribe and be part of our community. Thanks, Ned & Markus

In this One More K episode, Jonas Jacquet, co-founder of Sporthunger.de, shares his journey from finance in Asia to building a top German endurance nutrition platform. He dives into why he returned to Germany, the gap he saw in high-quality sports nutrition, and how Sporthunger bridges that gap with curated products athletes love. Jonas reflects on his experience at The Running Event in Austin, where he observed booming trends like foam-soled shoes, trail running fashion, and the high-carb fueling revolution. He also highlights the rise of run clubs and the shift of running into a social, stylish movement. This episode offers insight into running industry dynamics, Sporthunger’s curated approach to nutrition, and Jonas’s passion for blending community, quality, and performance. Whether you're a runner, entrepreneur, or gear geek, it’s a must-listen! Timestamps: (00:25) Intro Jonas Jacquet (01:30) From Hong Kong to Germany founding sporthunger.de (07:30) Impressions from The Running Event in Austin, TX (14:45) More shoe brands are joining the market (23:50) Are we entering a running boom cycle now? (30:00) Nutrition trends at The Running Event (39:40) Brands with great story telling (46:20) How to grow sporthunger.de (57:04) Ned’s drop Show Notes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonas-jacquet-109164116/ https://www.sporthunger.de/ – Brought to you by Lecka Nutrition (www.getlecka.com) Follow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_  Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onemorek_ Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.com Reach Out: [email protected] Watch On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OneMoreK_ Available on Apple Podcast, Spotify and other major platforms.  Hit the review button, subscribe and be part of our community. Thanks, Ned & Markus

Markus and Ned sit down with Michael Dhulst, co-founder and CEO of SuperTri, to talk about shaking up the triathlon world. Michael shares his journey from working at Volkswagen in China to launching SuperTri, a short-course triathlon league that’s built for athletes and spectators. Compact courses, thrilling formats, and team-based racing are changing the game—and pulling in new fans. He also dives into the business side: how to connect with participants on an emotional level, the growth of SuperTri E (their e-sports triathlon platform), and the challenges of scaling globally. With a focus on the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East, Michael explains how SuperTri is bringing triathlon to new heights, all while keeping the drama and grit of racing alive. Packed with insights and fresh ideas, this episode is a must-listen for endurance sports fans and innovators alike Timestamps: (00:25) Intro Michael Dhulst (01:25) From Volkswagen China to doing triathlons (05:30) Why starting Super League Triathlon in the world of triathlon (14:00) The format of Supertri racing (16:50) The business behind Supertri & building teams (23:20) Focusing on the customer in triathlons (30:40) The power of storytelling (35:00) Expanding Supertri into different markets (39:25) The vision for Supertri (41:55) Ned’s Drop https://www.linkedin.com/in/mdhulst/ https://supertri.com/ – Brought to you by Lecka Nutrition (www.getlecka.com) Follow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_  Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onemorek_ Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.com Reach Out: [email protected] Watch On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OneMoreK_ Available on Apple Podcast, Spotify and other major platforms.  Hit the review button, subscribe and be part of our community. Thanks, Ned & Markus

Ryan Blair, one of the OGs of trail running in Asia, takes us on a wild ride through his journey. From organizing adventure races in the 90s to building Asia’s first professional trail running team, Ryan shares how he turned passion into purpose. Whether it’s pulling off events against all odds or fighting for better opportunities for Asian athletes, Ryan’s been at the heart of it all. He talks about Sunmaya Buddha, his star runner from Nepal, whose story is as gritty as her racing. Ryan doesn’t hold back on the challenges—like the lack of prize money and global recognition for athletes from the region—but he’s all about creating change. This episode is packed with honesty, history, and a whole lot of heart, straight from someone who’s been in the trenches (and on the trails) for decades. Timestamps: (00:30) Intro Ryan (01:00) Why One More K? (03:05) Ryan’s story coming to Asia from the US (08:30) Building the Action Asia Race Series (18:00) Comparing trail running now to 30 years ago (26:40) The North Face Racing team, including Sunmaya Budha (39:00) Sunmaya is an outstanding athlete (43:30) How to improve the trail industry (50:50) Ned’s drop Show Notes: www.AsiaPacificAdventure.com www.PCI-Asia.com www.HotReels.tv www.apa.co – Brought to you by Lecka Nutrition (www.getlecka.com) Follow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_ Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onemorek_ Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.com Reach Out: [email protected] Watch On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OneMoreK_ Available on Apple Podcast, Spotify and other major platforms. Hit the review button, subscribe and be part of our community. Thanks, Ned & Markus

Markus and Ned sit down with Michael Brechtelsbauer from LEKI, the legendary pole brand that’s been helping adventurers tackle mountains, trails, and everything in between for over 75 years. Michael dives into LEKI's backstory, from a WWII refugee’s dream of building better gear to becoming a go-to for serious skiers and trail runners worldwide. He talks about LEKI’s quirky evolution—from clunky early models to today’s ultra-light, high-tech trail running poles. And did you know LEKI experimented with hemp poles? Yes, they’re on a mission to mix sustainability with performance, working with elite athletes who’ll test everything from grip comfort to pole lengths (hint: longer is trending!). The episode wraps up with some fun insider talk on where LEKI is headed, including experimenting with materials that are as tough as they are eco-friendly. Whether you’re a casual hiker or ultra-endurance junkie, Michael’s insights on LEKI’s journey and his passion for the niche world of poles will have you itching to hit the trails. Timestamps: (00:28) Intro Michael & background (03:20) The LEKI founding story in Germany (10:55) LEKI’s venture into trail running (15:55) How to differentiate poles & staying focused (18:32) Importance of trail running within LEKI (23:50) Customer and trends are changing, everything is growing (29:00) How LEKI connects to consumers (36:11) What innovations are happening? Go below 100g per pole? (44:35) New products coming in 2025 (47:30) Ned’s drop Show Notes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-brechtelsbauer-45431b104/ www.leki.de – Brought to you by Lecka Nutrition (www.getlecka.com) Follow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_  Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onemorek_ Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.com Reach Out: [email protected] Watch On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OneMoreK_ Available on Apple Podcast, Spotify and other major platforms.  Hit the review button, subscribe and be part of our community. Thanks, Ned & Markus

Yo, it’s One More K, Markus and Ned, With Ruairi on the mic, here’s what he said: Teacher turned runner, now trail scene king, Reppin' Trail Gangstaz, where the memes do their thing. He’s raced in Vietnam, from mountains to heat, Coaching young guns, keeping ‘em on their feet. Memes got the laughs, but the message runs deep, From calling out brands to the secrets we keep. Creative hustle, posts that hit right, Rap videos poppin’ every Friday night. Gotta boost the biz, let the humor shine through, In the world of trails, he’s bringing the new. And yeah, he dropped bars, live on the show, Spittin’ his story, making that flow. Authentic and real, he’s raising the game, From runners to jokers, he’s changing the frame. So if you love trails and you’re down for a laugh, Tune in to One More K, follow the path. (created by ChatGPT, no human to blame for this rap) Timestamps: (00:20) Intro to Ruairi (02:35) Ruairi’s running in Vietnam (06:45) Being part of the Aravaipa Running Team (09:20) Review of Javelina Jundred race (14:00) Ruairi’s running career in track & road (17:23) An overview of the running meme accounts (20:28) Business model of meme accounts (25:22) The in’s and out’s of running memes (29:25) What’s the journey ahead? Focus on collabs (34:20) Getting into rap in NYC (40:10) How to compete with AI to create good content (45:00) Importance of satire and parody (48:30) The first rap on One More K (52:52) Ned’s drop Show Notes: https://www.instagram.com/trailgangstaz/ https://www.instagram.com/lilrunnerboiii/ https://aravaiparunning.com/network/javelinajundred/ – Brought to you by Lecka Nutrition (www.getlecka.com) Follow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_  Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onemorek_ Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.com Reach Out: [email protected] Watch On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OneMoreK_ Available on Apple Podcast, Spotify and other major platforms.  Hit the review button, subscribe and be part of our community. Thanks, Ned & Markus

In this episode, Joao Andrade, co-founder of One Hundred Group, discusses his remarkable journey from biotech and health tech entrepreneurship to launching a global trail running series. Joao opens up about two life-changing incidents: a bout with dengue fever and a heart arrhythmia during a trail race in Italy, which led him to reevaluate his fast-paced lifestyle. These experiences, he explains, were pivotal in shifting his approach to business and life, emphasizing the importance of balance and intuition. Joao details the vision behind One Hundred Group—a global championship for ultra-endurance athletes, focusing on 100-mile, 200-mile, and 100K distances. He contrasts his top-down approach of launching an international series with the organic growth of other race organizations like UTMB. Joao also reflects on his experience pitching on Dragon’s Den, where he secured investment, and the challenges of securing venture capital in a post-pandemic world. The episode offers insight into balancing entrepreneurship and endurance sports, with Joao sharing lessons on resilience, overcoming challenges, and his plans to elevate trail running to a global stage. His passion for both business and running drives the conversation. https://www.linkedin.com/in/joaoandradeultraceo/ Timestamps: (00:47) Intro to Joao Andrade (02:03) Joao’s life changing events (09:50) From CEO to endurance athlete to One Hundred Group (19:30) Overcoming challenges in building a global event series (23:10) Using naivete to bring new ideas to trail running (25:30) The Dragon’s Den background story (31:00) Looking ahead to 2025 to the World Championships (35:20) How to measure success and goals for One Hundred Group (38:55) Dealing with competition like UTMB (41:15) Investing into technology to drive revenue growth (46:15) Commercialisation of trail running (51:50) Ned’s drop of poetry – Brought to you by Lecka Nutrition (www.getlecka.com) Follow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_  Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onemorek_ Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.com Reach Out: [email protected] Watch On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OneMoreK_ Available on Apple Podcast, Google Podcast and Spotify.  – Hit the review button, subscribe and be part of our community. Thanks, Ned & Markus

This is a special episode in which Markus shares some thoughts on how meditation has benefited him during ultrarunning. He invites you to a 10-minute simple breathing exercise focused on breathing through the nose. Meditating is training the mind's muscles. Ultra running is a mental game. Include simple meditation in your training to reduce stress, have a better recovery and improve endurance. Eenjoy

This week, hosts Markus and Ned banter through their current challenges—Ned’s backyard ultra race and Markus’ upcoming 10-day Vipassana meditation. Ned hilariously reflects on the absurdity of his running life, having completed 26 marathon-plus runs this year despite feeling underprepared for his next race. Markus, on the other hand, is gearing up for a complete contrast in physical activity—sitting still for 10 days straight. The duo jokes about combining their experiences into one podcast episode of pure silence. They dive into some big topics, too. From the latest scandals in the ultra-running world, such as Camille Herron’s Wikipedia controversy, to discussions about the rise of coaching in trail running, there’s plenty to keep listeners entertained. Ned, with his trademark humor, contemplates becoming a coach himself, only to be horrified by the rising cost of hiring one these days. Yet, he admits the value of having a cheerleader, whether in running or in life. As they wrap up, the hosts reflect on the growing demand for running documentaries, lamenting the lack of originality in the genre. Ned offers his suggestions for must-watch films while poking fun at the overused "waking up at 4 a.m. for a race" trope. The episode ends on a thoughtful note, with a poetic tribute to kindness and the importance of mental well-being, tying together the highs and lows of the ultra-running world with a bit of humor and heart. Timestamps: (00:40) Backyard World Championships are coming up (04:50) Celebrating over 3000 downloads (05:30) Ironman Group ownership (08:16) Camille Herron & Stine Rex (19:05) Deep dive into professional coaching (31:10) Reflections on documentaries (39:30) Stock price comparison On, Adidas, Nike & Hoka (42:20) Ned’s drop Show Notes: https://www.runnersworld.com/news/a62390250/camille-herron-lululemon-wikipedia-scandal/ https://www.irunfar.com/will-stine-rexs-48-hour-world-record-ever-be-ratified https://www.irunfar.com/a-data-driven-environmental-scan-of-the-trail-and-ultra-coaching-industry – Brought to you by Lecka Nutrition (www.getlecka.com) Follow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_  Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onemorek_ Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.com Reach Out: [email protected] Watch On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OneMoreK_ Available on Apple Podcast, Google Podcast and Spotify.  Hit the review button, subscribe and be part of our community. Thanks, Ned & Markus

In this lively episode of the One More K Podcast, hosts Markus and Ned welcome David Lloyd, the man behind Vietnam’s thriving trail running scene and Topas Trail Series. From his early days of exploring the rugged Welsh mountains to creating Vietnam’s first major trail races, David shares the unexpected journey that led him to establish the Vietnam Mountain Marathon and other iconic races. With a mix of humor and insight, David recounts how a passion project that started with a handful of runners has now grown into a full-fledged movement, attracting thousands of participants from around the world. David reveals the unique challenges of organizing trail races in a rapidly developing country like Vietnam, where new concrete roads often encroach on traditional trails. Despite these obstacles, he and his team have built a series of trail races that highlight Vietnam’s stunning landscapes, from the remote jungles of Phu Luong to the towering peaks of Sapa. He explains how the races have evolved over the years, balancing the influx of international tourists with the growing number of local runners who have embraced the sport with enthusiasm. But the episode isn’t just about logistics and race organization. David reflects on the vibrant sense of community that sets Vietnamese races apart, where runners stay long after crossing the finish line to enjoy local food, cold beer, and new friendships. With plenty of laughs and behind-the-scenes stories, this episode offers an inspiring look at how one man’s love for the mountains has sparked a trail running revolution in Southeast Asia. Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction of David Lloyd (06:05) David’s journey to Vietnam (07:50) The story behind Topas trail races (10:40) Role of tourism in trail running (14:50) The highlights of Topas’ races (19:30) Managing rural development and changes in trails (24:05) Working with local governments (27:30) How to deal with the growth in trail running & events (34:30) Where to take the Topas Trail Series? (37:00) What’s special about Vietnam trail running? (39:45) David speaks Vietnamese (42:40) Ned’s Drop - https://www.instagram.com/vietnamtrailseries/ - https://www.instagram.com/d.a.v.i.d_l.l.o.y.d/ - https://vietnamtrailseries.com/ Supported by Lecka Nutition (www.getlecka.com)

In this episode of the One More K Podcast, hosts Markus and Ned sit down with Sabrina de Nadai, a trailblazing figure in Asia’s trail running scene and the director of UTMB Asia. Sabrina shares her unique journey from a corporate career at L’Oréal to becoming a key player in the region’s trail running community. Starting with the humble origins of the TransLantau race in Hong Kong, she describes how her passion for trail running led her to co-found Asia Sport Connection, growing TransLantau into one of Asia’s premier trail events. Her story offers a fascinating look into the entrepreneurial spirit and determination it takes to transform a passion project into a widely recognized brand. As the conversation unfolds, Sabrina delves into UTMB’s expansion into the Asian market and how the acquisition of TransLantau paved the way for further growth. She talks about the evolving trail running culture in China, the importance of staying connected to local communities, and the crucial role safety plays in organizing these challenging events. Sabrina also reflects on the differences in trail running enthusiasm pre- and post-COVID, highlighting how the pandemic reshaped the landscape of long-distance races across the region. Her insights provide a unique glimpse into the complexities of merging a grassroots movement with a globally recognized brand. The episode closes with an exciting discussion on the future of trail running in Asia. Sabrina and the hosts explore the possibility of a UTMB final being held in Asia, the rise of elite Chinese trail runners, and the growing influence of tourism on the sport. From navigating partnerships with Ironman to working with local governments, Sabrina offers an inspiring vision of what’s next for the trail running community. Whether you're an avid runner or simply curious about the sport, this episode is packed with insights and passion that will keep you hooked from start to finish. (00:00) Welcome back and introduction of Sabrina de Nadai (01:53) Transition from L'Oréal to trail running and event organizing (08:33) Growth of TransLantau and the rise of trail running in Asia (10:37) Community evolution in Hong Kong and the effects of COVID-19 (14:56) How the UTMB acquisition of TransLantau came about (19:34) Timeline of the UTMB and Ironman partnership (23:17) Division of responsibilities between UTMB Asia and Ironman (24:43) Profitability challenges for race directors in Asia (26:41) Commercial realities in trail running: Ironman’s approach (28:11) China’s potential as a key market for trail running (29:52) Building a brand in China & getting feedback (32:28) Expansion plans for Greater China (33:19) Insights into the Chinese government plans for mass events (38:00) Safety measures improved in China (41:25) Potential of Asian runners is growing (46:50) Ned’s Drop – Brought to you by Lecka Nutrition (www.getlecka.com) Follow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_  Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onemorek_ Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.com Reach Out: [email protected] Watch On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OneMoreK_ Available on Apple Podcast, Google Podcast and Spotify.  Hit the review button, subscribe and be part of our community. Thanks, Ned & Markus

Send us a textIn this episode, Markus and Ned welcome ultra-endurance athlete and social media influencer Natalie Dau. Known as "Rockstar Arms" on Instagram, Natalie shares her journey from corporate IT marketing to becoming a leading figure in the ultra-running community. She discusses how she organically transitioned into fitness content creation over ten years ago, before the social media fitness trend took off. Her candid insights into building a career from social media emphasize consist...

Send us a textIn this episode, Markus and Ned welcome elite runner Vlad Ixel, a trailblazing figure in the endurance sports community. The conversation begins with Vlad's impressive racing history, where he shares his journey from his early days to becoming a dominant force in ultra-running. The hosts dive into Vlad's views on Hong Kong’s growing trail running scene and the unique opportunities it offers for athletes. Vlad also discusses what it's like to be a sponsored athlete, the perks tha...

Send us a textWow, UTMB is over but there is still so much to talk about. Some time has passed since Vincent crossed the finish line in Chamonix, so Ned and Markus reflect a bit more about the past 10 days.Ned is having a grumpy uncle day, so he is let loose to provide some juicy comments on various topics ranging from DNF rate and fading interests in finishers to VIP areas and Hoka shoes. Markus throws in some of his observations and reflection, especially around dealing with failure and tra...

Send us a textWe are wrapping up this super intense UTMB Week in Chamonix. Markus is back in Germany, has a 0.0% beer and is discussing the CCC and UTMB results with Ned who tunes in from Los Angeles. CCC saw some great running by Hayden Hawkes, Peter Frano and Adam Peterman. Toni Mccan pushed hard and came first, followed by Martyna Mlynarczyk and Rosanna Buchauer. UTMB felt like the race of elite DNFs. Many top athletes dropped out and so it left the fairly unknown Vincent Bouilla...

Send us a textWhat a day at UTMB. Day 4 is in the books. We bumped into some great people at the Expo and even got to hear a legend play piano. Kicking off with the OG of trail running in India: Kieren D’Souza. He has spent the last few months in Chamonix to prepare for his 2nd CCC and is excited to kick it off tomorrow. His story is quite incredible and we are looking forward to getting him back onto the show. He lives in a city in North India 14 hours away from the next international a...

Send us a textAnother great day of UTMB is done. It is getting busy. Chamonix is buzzing. We caught up with some of the people in the One More K community to bring this festival closer to you. We are starting with Valentin Orange, film maker and part of Kailas, who is doing 100miles this weekend. He shares how there are different elite categories, why he is doing 100miles this year and how he is trying to stay calm despite all this noise. Go Valentin! The next chat is wit...

Send us a textTune in for day 2 at the UTMB festival in Chamonix. We have been interviewing many different people to give you the real stories from the French Alps town.Starting with Florian Lamblin, CEO of UTMB International, who gives us a few minutes of his valuable time. He takes us through his views on Asian runners, what he is most proud of at this year's event and even gives us a prediction who might win UTMB this year. Moving on to Fuzhao Xiang, China's best 100mile lady who is c...

Send us a textDay 1 of the UTMB 2024 in Chamonix is already over. Here is your uncensored, personal take on the first day of this trail festival.Markus interviews Hau Ha, Vietnam's best runner, who is competing on CCC (100km). She is confident, she is excited, she is calm. And she is cooking her own Vietnamese food here in Chamonix. Is she taking home the CCC crown this year?After that, Ned and Markus discuss the first impressions of the expo, missing brands, and if there is any criticism lef...

Send us a textNed and Markus are back as the show besties and chat about the correlation between business success and doing endurance sports. Do public companies perform better when the CEOs are endurance athletes? They review the Leadville100 race and discuss the non-binary category. Is that just a trend or there to stay?Looking ahead, Ned and Markus preview the big UTMB week and introduce a new format, the UTMB Kopi Tiam - a daily show that summarises the events and impressions in Chamonix....

Send us a textMeet Salomon Wettstein, one of Hong Kong’s best ultrarunners and co-CEO of Synpulse8. Salomon champions putting in the hard work and meticulous planning to achieve greatness in ultra racing and business. That made him a very successful runner who finished the super tough Hong Kong 4 Trail Challenge and who won the Lantau70 & Lantau100 and many other races in Asia and Europe. Plus, he grew his business successfully alongside all that.Salomon opens up in this episode about his...

Send us a textMeet Christian Toetzke, the Founder & CEO of HYROX, the fastest growing fitness racing event in the world. They started in 2017 in Hamburg, Germany, managed to navigate through COVID-19, and since then have taken over the fitness & endurance world in no time. Christian has a successful career in creating and managing endurance events, so in this episode he takes us through his beginnings in marathon and triathlon, his reasons for starting HYROX and what his vision f...

Send us a textWe are joined by special guest John Ellis, founder of T8, ultra elite runner and commodities trader by day. He takes us through the 8 year journey of founding one of the leading Asian sport brands out of Hong Kong - T8. From having an epiphany during a painful run in Hong Kong, he and his co-founder Mark then decided to bring chafe-free running shorts to the trail and ultra market. T8 is now a profitable business, is available in dozens of markets and continues to grow over...

Send us a textMeet Grant Giles, one of the most thoughtful and holistic elite ultra performance coaches you will meet. Also dubbed the ‘Buddha of Endurance’, Grant takes us through his unique approach of achieving endurance excellence by focusing on mental training. Over decades of practice with elite athletes, Grant has developed a set of various tools that he customises for each athlete in order to unlock the impossible. This episode is full of wisdom, relevant for any athlete and entr...

Send us a textJoin us for this incredible story of Romain founding Uglow and Uglow Sports in 2011 in Hong Kong. He had a vision for starting a high end outdoor sports fashion brand that would become the first one to have 100% stitch free garments. Romain shares authentically how he struggled through various crises, learned his business lessons and became wiser and more persistent over time. His insights are golden nuggets for any bidding and experienced entrepreneur. From how to deal wit...

Send us a textWe are joined by Valentin Orange, Vietnam’s best trail runner and now French based athlete and filmmaker. He talks us through his journey from working in the tourism industry to becoming one of the most talented photographers and videographers in this fast moving trail and ultra running world. He shares his insights of how this industry is changing, what it takes to find great stories and how to work with some of the best athletes in the world. He just released his document...

Send us a textIn this week’s episode Ned and Markus dive into the Western States Race. They discuss business trends, key sponsors, guerilla marketing techniques and how the US and Asia are starting to connect more. They also break down the times of the female and male race, the fun facts, and the latest revenue and cost numbers of Western States. In the last part of the show, they go through the Ultra Trail Singapore race, Marathon du Mont Blanc and share some thoughts on the Enhanced Ga...

Send us a textNed and Markus are going through the latest news in the world of trail running. Lazarus Lake has stopped his adventure to cross America, the Sky Race series saw some African runners win and Southeast Asia had its first Trail Running Cup. Plus, a deep dive into the male and female runners who are going to compete at Western States this weekend.Also, Ned and Markus can’t help it to dig into more businesses of the trail world. They talk about the founding story of the huge Chinese ...

Send us a textKris Van de Velde is the founder of Asia Trail Master, the number one event series of trail running in Asia. Now coming to its 10th edition, Kris and Asia Trail Master have been instrumental in building up the community in Asia. He joins us on the show to share insights of the last 10 years, how runner’s interests and races are changing and which countries are still growing. Also, he is an expert of the Chinese running and cycling community. He provides a great spotlight on the ...

Send us a textA very personal episode where Ned and Markus share their lessons that they acquired through running and how they applied them to their business ventures over the years. Valuable insights in how to connect two different worlds into one and keep learning throughout life. Fantastic points to keep getting better in everything you do and never stopping to achieve your goals. Ned highlights the importance of ‘Just Doing More’, having ‘Singular Focus & Saying No’ and of ‘The A...

Send us a textA highly energetic episode covering the latest news in the ultra and trail community. Hau Ha winning Tioman Ultra in an extraordinary effort, Suffolk Backyard is still happening and the Vietnam Backyard took place over the weekend. Discussing the latest news of the Spring Energy Gel scandal, how it is changing the view in the community of influencer promoted supplements, the role of the US FDA in requiring tests and Spring’s response so far. Digging more into how purchases are d...

Send us a textSpecial guest Ewegene Tan is returning back to the show to share the exciting news of Ironman Asia / UTMB Group acquiring his race ‘Malaysia Mountain Trail Festival’. He digs into the last 2.5 years of due diligence, into what it means for the Malaysian community and what is/is not going to change for his upcoming race, now called Malaysia Ultra Trail by UTMB. Great insights in how this industry is changing fast and acquisitions are happening.Also, Ned, Markus & Ewegene cove...

Send us a textSpecial guest Guim joins us to share more about the founding of MUDE Sports, scaling it from Vietnam to the world, MUDE’s philosophy to be eco-friendly and not fast fashion, MUDE’s running team, his story of discovering Vietnam’s top talent Hau Ha, plans for Hau in 2024/25 and where he thinks the sport is going. In the news section we cover Spring Energy’s Gel nutrition issue and TrailCon. Wrapped up by Ned’s drop of wisdom and inspiration.Guim was one of the first people to do ...

Send us a textSpecial guest JP Alipio is the founder of Cordillera Mountain Race and Cordillera Ultra Challenge in the Philippines, an ultra runner himself and one of the key people in the Philippines’ trail and ultra ecosystem.He is shedding light on how the trail community came about, the founding of his races and the Philippines National Trail Running Team and which PH runners to follow. In the news section the world record attempt of Sufiya Sufi, race results of Transvulcania and Cocodona...

Send us a textMarkus’ and Ned’s passion for track Tuesdays, Ned’s insights from his 100M+5K run, going through the results of the Amazean Jungle Thailand by UTMB race (Hau Ha, Vanja, Sange Sherpa, Nhon Do), Sam Harvey winning the Dead Cow Gully but missing the world record, Lazcon update, Cocodona 250 live race update and Hoka replacing Dacia as the main sponsor for UTMB World Series. Wrapped up by Ned’s Drop.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro(00:26) Passion for track(09:30) Ned’s 100M+5K(23:47) Dead C...

Send us a textLots of news to cover this week. Courtney crushing it at Mt Fuji 100, Golden Trail World Series moving to China, Katie Schide winning Canyon Endurance by UTMB and a harsh review of the WALMSLEY ‘documentary’ (aka Hoka & Wahoo advertisement). Followed by a quick financial analysis of the Hoka sales and covering the insane application number for the London Marathon. Snippets:(00:00) Intro(01:20) Ned’s Running(07:05) Mt Fuji 100km(11:50) Golden Trail World Series(19:...

Send us a textMeet Jeri Chua, Singapore’s first female that qualified for the Ironman World Championships in Kona and one of the most accomplished ultra athletes from Singapore. She is the owner of the Red Dot Running Company and a key figure in the Singapore trail/ultra community. Jeri shares her insights on:- why Singapore’s community is special- how demographics are changing - which athletes to follow- the latest fashion in ultra running- how Asian races are adapting with more mo...