This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we are joined by the incredible Becca Joyner—ultra runner, course record holder, and a powerhouse who balances three boys and multiple jobs while crushing miles.

Becca takes us through her evolution from a workplace step challenge to setting the course record at Dark Anchor. We dive into the raw, humbling reality of races like Volstate and the Yeti 100, where running strips you down to the bare essentials of survival. Becca opens up about the emotional toll of training, the "kindness of strangers" that keeps you moving at Mile 80, and her deep-seated passion for fundraising for Type 1 Diabetes research.

This is an episode about grit, vulnerability, and finding a purpose far bigger than the finish line.

🏃‍♂️ Call to Action: Run for Type 1!

Dirt & Vert listeners, it’s time to step up. Becca is hosting the Run for Type 1 5K to benefit JDRF/Breakthrough Type 1 in honor of Beau Joyner.

There is a virtual option, so there are NO EXCUSES. Whether you are local or across the country, you can log these miles for a great cause.

• Race: Run for Type 1

• Cause: All proceeds go to JDRF/BT1D

• Register here: https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/Dutton/RunforType1

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we’re joined by Jeremy Bohnett, the co-founder of Hyperlyte Liquid Performance. Jeremy’s journey is a fascinating transition from the world of long-distance thru-hiking to the high-intensity realm of 100-mile ultra-marathons.

We dive into the "why" behind Hyperlyte, a nutrition company born out of the need to simplify the complicated world of endurance fueling. Jeremy breaks down the science of their high-carb, high-sodium formulas and why they chose an "authentic, messy" brand identity that reflects the reality of trail running over a polished corporate image.

Whether you’re curious about the mental shift from walking across the country to running 100 miles, or you're looking for a better way to manage your race-day gut, this conversation with Jeremy is packed with entrepreneurial grit and trail wisdom.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jeremy Bonet and Hopper Lot

03:01 Jeremy's Journey from Thru-Hiking to Trail Running

06:02 Transitioning from Hiking to Running: Challenges and Growth

08:42 The Allure of the 100-Mile Race

11:49 The Community and Camaraderie in Ultra Running

14:42 Fueling Strategies for Endurance Races

17:54 The Science Behind Hopper Lot's Formulation

20:51 Launch and Growth of Hopper Lot

25:04 Timing and Luck in Marketing

28:46 The Importance of Branding

30:02 Reflecting on Success

32:54 The Simplicity of Running

35:49 What Sets Hopper Lot Apart?

40:28 Pride in Authenticity

42:02 Favorite Gear and Products

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we sit down with the newly crowned MAD Backyard Ultra Course Record Holder, Ashley Pipkin!

Ashley's story is the ultimate proof that you don't need to be a "lifelong athlete" to dominate the ultra scene. She takes us through her transformation from a non-athletic childhood to outlasting the field and rewriting the record books. We dive deep into the specific mental grit required to run loops until you're the last one standing, her "eat everything" nutrition strategy, and why she values raw, real-life trail experiences over the curated world of social media.

From her first "accidental" interest in long distances to her upcoming goals at the legendary Barkley Fall Classic, Ashley breaks down the mindset of a champion and the importance of having a rock-solid support system (shoutout to her husband!) in your corner.

Takeaways:

Ashley transitioned from recreational running to competitive ultra running after college.

She emphasizes the importance of nutrition and eating enough during races.

Ashley enjoys the community aspect of ultra running and the friendships formed.

Her first 50K was a challenging but rewarding experience, leading to her interest in longer distances.

She has a strong focus on mental preparation and self-discovery through running.

Ashley believes in the importance of setting personal goals and pushing limits.

She has learned to embrace the challenges and unpredictability of ultra races.

Her husband plays a crucial role in her support system during races.

Ashley finds joy in the beauty of nature while running and values the real experiences over social media.

She is excited about future races and the potential for personal growth in her running journey.