The Trail Network Podcast

We're so happy you're here with us this week. On this week's episode, we dive into some listener questions and chat about the season ahead. We talk about how we balance being competitive in the sport while holding space for planning for families and motherhood. Another topic is balancing and sharing the sport with a partner. We also cover some world championship qualifiers like Gorge Waterfalls and Broken Arrow. And we dive into our favorite winter running hacks. We hope you enjoy this episode! This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network. A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

 Take on Barilla’s Protein Pasta Winter Energy Challenge on the Strava Fitness App. ⁠ [http://strava.com/Barilla]Complete 10 days of movement for your Barilla Pasta reward! Go to ⁠Strava.com/Barilla⁠ [http://strava.com/Barilla] And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠⁠Janji⁠⁠ [https://janji.com], use the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

In this episode, Rachel, Leah, Hilary, and Katie reconnect to chat about what’s been happening so far in 2025, sharing hot takes and fun stories about life, training, and adventures. The conversation covers Katie’s upcoming race at the Black Canyon 100k, the inspiring work of The Futurist Project, and a spotlight on incredible female athletes and creatives. They also dive into their favorite gear, the value of storytelling in sports and life, and the little things that are keeping them motivated this year. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or just a good laugh, this episode has something for everyone! This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network. Take on Barilla’s Protein Pasta Winter Energy Challenge on the Strava Fitness App. [http://strava.com/Barilla]Complete 10 days of movement for your Barilla Pasta reward! Go to Strava.com/Barilla [http://strava.com/Barilla] And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, ⁠Janji⁠ [https://janji.com], use the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

In this episode of the Trail Network podcast, hosts Leah Yingling and Rachel Drake are joined by the incredible Courtney Olsen who had an unforgettable 2024 racing season. Courtney placed third at Comrades, set a world record at the Tunnel Hill 50-Miler, secured a top-10 finish at the World’s 100K Race, and was recently voted number six in the Ultra Runner of the Year rankings. In this conversation, they dive into Courtney’s standout performances on the global stage, where she has represented Team USA in the 50K and 100K World Championships four times, leading many of those teams to podium finishes. Courtney also discusses the importance of strong sponsorships, what it means to build meaningful brand partnerships, and the mindset it takes to achieve success in ultrarunning. Courtney’s authenticity and insights make this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about running and the ultra community. Talking Points: Highlights of Courtney’s incredible 2024 racing season Placing third at Comrades Marathon Setting a world record at the Tunnel Hill 50-Miler Top-10 finish at the World’s 100K Race Representing Team USA in the 50K and 100K World Championships Leading USA teams to podium finishes Insights on meaningful sponsorships and brand partnerships Reflections on her journey in ultrarunning This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network. A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com [https://www.osprey.com/] to explore their incredible products! And a big thanks to our newest sponsor, Janji [https://janji.com], use the code TRAILNETWORK for a 10% discount on your Janji order.

In this episode of the Trail Network podcast, hosts Hilary Yang and Katie Asmuth are joined by elite runner and content creator Allie Ostrander. Allie shares insights into her new sponsorship with Oiselle, her experiences balancing a professional running career with content creation, and how she navigates both trail and track worlds. The conversation delves into the lessons she’s learned on the trails, her passion for mental health advocacy, and the hobbies that help her find balance outside of running. It’s a fun and thoughtful discussion that highlights Allie’s journey, her reflections on 2024, and her aspirations for the future. Talking Points: -What shoes Allie is currently using for her runs -Her new sponsorship with Oiselle and why she chose them -Transitioning from NNormal and Brooks Beasts to Oiselle -Navigating contract negotiations with sponsors -How she initially reached out to brands -The many roles Allie juggles as an athlete and creator -Starting her podcast, Every Step of the Way -How her relationship with Spencer Brown has influenced her content creation -Finding hobbies and interests outside of running -Lessons learned on the trail in 2024 -Being coached by David Roche -Prioritizing mental health while striving for peak performance 
 This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network. A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to explore their incredible products!

 Follow Allie:
 Allie on Instagram: @allie_ostrander
 Allie on YouTube: @allie_ostrander
 Allie’s Podcast: Every Step of The Way

In this special New Year’s episode, hosts Hilary Yang, Leah Yingling, Rachel Drake, and Katie Asmuth come together on New Year’s Eve to reflect on the highs, lows, and lessons of the past year. From creative endeavors and unexpected turns to balancing race calendars with life outside the sport, the hosts share personal insights and what they’re carrying forward into 2025. It’s a heartfelt, honest conversation about growth, adaptability, and big plans on the horizon. Talking Points: * A pulse check: how everyone is feeling as the year wraps up * What was planned for 2024 versus what actually happened * Hilary’s creative pursuits within the sport * Balancing individual race calendars with outdoor adventures beyond competition * Key lessons learned in 2024 and intentions for the year ahead A special thank you to Osprey for supporting this episode. Visit Osprey.com to check out their amazing products! This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network. Happy New Year from the whole team!