Trail Runner Nation

In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, cognitive neuroscientist and endurance athlete Dr. Scott Frey [https://www.instagram.com/cerebral_performance/] reveals how brain training can unlock new levels of performance for trail and ultrarunners. He explains that while most athletes focus on the physical, it’s often the brain that sets the limits—through perceived effort, cognitive fatigue, and pain signals. Dr. Frey introduces his Brain Endurance System Training (BEST), a method that combines cognitive and physical training to build mental strength and resilience. We talk about managing cognitive load, how the brain predicts fatigue, and why a mental taper can be just as important as a physical one. Listeners will learn how to train smarter, race longer, and enjoy the sport deeper by understanding the true power of the brain.  Find out more about BEST and Dr. Frey at Cerebral Performance [https://cerebralperformance.com] Episode Sponsors: * Janji [https://janji.com/], Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off * Shokz [https://shokz.com/?utm_source=TRN&utm_medium=website], Use code TRN10 for 10% off [https://www.amazfit.com/trail] * Amazfit - T-Rex 3 [https://www.amazfit.com/trail]: Get 15% off * Oikos Triple Zero [https://www.oikosyogurt.com/greek-yogurt/triple-zero/] * Get the NEW "1 > 0" running hat HERE [https://trailrunnernation.com/].  Limited supply

What does it mean to be a trail runner in your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s—or even your 70s? How do years of pounding dirt, chasing summits, and chasing goals shape our bodies, minds, and identities? Welcome to The Aging Athlete, a new Trail Runner Nation mini-series co-hosted by ultrarunning icon Krissy Moehl [https://krissymoehl.com/]. Every 5 to 6 weeks, we’ll dive into what it looks like to grow older in this sport we love—exploring how to train smarter, fuel better, recover more intentionally, and stay motivated through the decades. In this second episode of the Aging Athlete Series, we speak with Dr. Scott Drum [https://directory.nau.edu/faculty?name=scott%20drum&person=snd273], an exercise physiologist and lifelong endurance athlete. We explore how training, VO₂ max, heart health, sleep, and social connection evolve as we age—and how understanding these changes can help runners continue performing and thriving for decades. Dr. Drum explains how we can maintain (and even improve) cardiovascular fitness into our 50s and beyond, and shares his personal experience with AFib as a cautionary but hopeful tale. The conversation blends science, personal insight, and practical strategies to help runners of all ages stay motivated, train smart, and run for life. Check out Krissy's book in it's second edition, Running Your First Ultra [https://krissymoehl.com/booksales/ryfuwultraplanner] Episode Sponsors: * Janji [https://janji.com/], Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off * Ketone IQ [http://ketone.com/TRAILRUNNER], Used by Tour de France champions—Ketone-IQ naturally boosts EPO, recovery, and endurance Get 30% off your first subscription order * Tifosi Optics [https://trailrunnernation.com/deals/#Tifosi] 20% off with code TRN * Amazfit - T-Rex 3 [https://www.amazfit.com/trail]: Get 15% off * Oikos Triple Zero [https://www.oikosyogurt.com/greek-yogurt/triple-zero/] * Get our new "1 > 0" technical running hat [https://trailrunnernation.com/product/trail-runner-nation-x-rnnr-pacer-hat/]

Can you get too much AJW?  This episode might answer that question.  After last week's Western States 100 Preview and Prognostication, Andy rejoins us for Audio Magazine to discuss a pouperi of topics related to trail running.   AJW brings his trademark passion and perspective. We swap stories, debate hot takes, and share trifling and inconsequential topics we have found on the interwebs. Whether you’re grinding out a long run or just need a midweek pick-me-up, this episode delivers variety, laughs, and a whole lot of trail love. * Hire AJW as a coach [https://trainright.com/coaches/andy-jones-wilkins/]! And read his weekly article in the AJW's Taproom  [https://www.irunfar.com/category/columns/ajws-taproom]Or tune into the "Crack a Brew with AJW" [https://www.crackabrewwithajw.com/]podcast. Episode Sponsors: * Janji [https://janji.com/], Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off * Peluva [https://peluva.com/], 15% off with code TRAILRUNNER * Bear Mattress [https://bearmattress.com/], get 40% off your first order with code TRAIL * Wonderful Pistachios [https://www.wonderfulpistachios.com/] * Oikos Triple Zero [https://www.oikosyogurt.com/greek-yogurt/triple-zero/] * Get our new "1 > 0" technical running hat [https://trailrunnernation.com/product/trail-runner-nation-x-rnnr-pacer-hat/]

In this annual episode, we talk about the 2025 Western States 100 [https://www.wser.org] with AJW [https://www.instagram.com/ajoneswilkins/] and Katie Asmuth [https://www.instagram.com/kt_asmuth/]. We talk about the race’s rich history, the evolving competition in both the men’s and women’s fields, and how course knowledge and pacing strategies can make or break a runner’s day. The discussion highlights the depth of talent, the impact of weather conditions, and the notable absences that open the door for new champions. Katie shares her personal connection to the race, emphasizing the powerful sense of community that defines the ultra running world. The group makes predictions, celebrates aging athletes, and honors the camaraderie and stories that make Western States more than just a race. It’s a celebration of grit, tradition, and the people who bring the trail to life. Hire AJW as a coach [https://trainright.com/coaches/andy-jones-wilkins/]! And read his weekly article in the AJW's Taproom  [https://www.irunfar.com/category/columns/ajws-taproom]Or tune into the "Crack a Brew with AJW" [https://www.crackabrewwithajw.com] podcast. Check out Katie and her friend's podcast, "The Trail Network Podcast" [https://www.instagram.com/thetrailnetworkpod/?hl=en] and the Women's Trailrunning Fund [https://www.hereforthewomensrace.com] Episode Sponsors: * Janji [https://janji.com/], Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off * Ketone IQ [http://ketone.com/TRAILRUNNER], Get 30% off your first subscription order. Used by Tour de France champions—Ketone-IQ naturally boosts EPO, recovery, and endurance * Tifosi Optics [https://trailrunnernation.com/deals/#Tifosi] 20% off with code TRN * Amazfit - T-Rex 3 [https://www.amazfit.com/trail]: Get 15% off * Oikos Triple Zero [https://www.oikosyogurt.com/greek-yogurt/triple-zero/] * Get our new "1 > 0" technical running hat [https://trailrunnernation.com/product/trail-runner-nation-x-rnnr-pacer-hat/]

In this episode, we explore the challenges and possibilities of running after joint replacement. Joined by athletes Magda Boulet [https://www.instagram.com/runboulet/] and Bob Crowley [https://www.instagram.com/dieselsan/], and orthopedic surgeon Dr. John Diana, we discuss personal stories of pain, surgery, and recovery. The conversation highlights how proper medical support, strength training, and rehabilitation can enable runners to return to the sport—even after undergoing major procedures such as hip or knee replacements. We address myths around running and joint damage, emphasizing that movement, including walking, is crucial for joint health. The psychological toll of joint issues and the role of community support in recovery are also central themes. This episode offers hope and practical insights for endurance athletes navigating joint pain or considering surgery. Check out Bob's History Expeditions [https://historyexp.org/the-story/] website! Episode Sponsors: * Janji [https://janji.com/], Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off * Peluva [https://peluva.com/], 15% off with code TRAILRUNNER * Liquid IV [https://www.liquid-iv.com/], get 20% off your first order with code TRAILRUNNER * Oikos Triple Zero [https://www.oikosyogurt.com/greek-yogurt/triple-zero/] * Get the NEW "1 > 0" running hat HERE [https://trailrunnernation.com/].  Limited supply