Join me, your host Dean Horwitz, as we venture into the wonderful world of trail running gear with Rudy Oliver, a seasoned trail runner and gear connoisseur who works at the trail running store Gone.

In this enlightening episode, we explore Rudy's comprehensive guide to selecting the right gear for trail running, delving into his wealth of knowledge on balancing cost, performance, safety, comfort, and weather adaptability.

With a dash of humor and a wealth of insight, Rudy shares his tried-and-true tips on hydration, nutrition, and training, emphasizing the critical roles of recovery, simulation, and gear testing. His passion for trail running is matched only by his dedication to sharing his expertise with others, making this episode a treasure trove of advice for runners of all levels.

As we navigate the world of trail running gear and technique, Rudy's story highlights the intricate dance between a runner's mental and physical prowess. Our conversation culminates in a spirited discussion on the merits of bottles versus bladders, shedding light on Rudy's infectious enthusiasm for trail running and his invaluable expertise as a guide for runners everywhere.

Tune in for a narrative that embodies the spirit of trail running, the joy of discovery, and the unyielding passion of a true trail running aficionado.

Join me, your host Dean Horwitz, as we delve into the world of professional trail running with Bianca Tarboton, a remarkable athlete and engineer, sponsored by Adidas Terrex. In this captivating episode, we traverse Bianca's dual journey of endurance and precision, exploring her exhilarating experience at the Otter Trail race and her unique approach to training.

Bianca's tale is one of balance and resilience, weaving her demanding engineering career with her passion for trail running. With a meticulous blend of humor and insight, she shares her rigorous training regimen, emphasizing the critical roles of recovery and nutrition. Her analytical mindset, honed by her engineering background, plays a pivotal role in her approach to race preparation and performance.

This episode reveals Bianca's aspirations in the trail running world, her dedication to advancing women's representation in the sport, and the ways she harmonizes her professional and athletic pursuits. As she navigates the challenges of both fields, her story underscores the symbiotic relationship between a runner's mental and physical prowess.

Our conversation culminates in a delightful word association game, shedding light on Bianca's infectious passion for mountain running and her innovative perspective as an athlete-engineer. Tune in for a narrative that captures the essence of trail running, the joy of discovery, and the unyielding spirit of an extraordinary individual.

Embark on an adventure with South Africa's trail virtuoso Robbie Rorich and me, your host Dean Horwitz, as we traverse the intersection of endurance and artistry in the great outdoors. Robbie, with his infectious humor, recounts tales from the trail that could easily be mistaken for scenes from a comedy, yet underneath the laughter lies a profound narrative of a man who dances to the beat of his own drum.

From being mistaken for a homeless man to cycling nearly 900 kilometers to his first trail race, Rorich's escapades are as much a part of his training as his strides on the mountain paths.

This episode is a testament to the symbiotic relationship between a runner's mindset and his physical prowess. Robbie, an advocate for the less conventional training methods of meditation and breathwork, sheds light on the significance of aligning with the energy of life rather than merely following a rigid regimen.

His holistic approach to training isn't just about peak physical condition — it's about resonance with the races he chooses, the joy discovered, and the sense of being part of the broader energetic flows of existence.

As Robbie shares his unique perspective on racing, listeners will garner insights into how one can prepare for the competitive world of trail running while staying true to the spiritual side of the sport.

The discussion wouldn't be complete without delving into the essentials of trail running nutrition, where Robbie brings his preference for natural sustenance over synthetic supplements to the fore. He candidly navigates the nuances of fueling for varied race distances, uncovering his personal energy rhythms and why shorter races play to his strengths.

Robbie's story embodies more than just the sport of trail running; it's about the profound healing and growth found in the embrace of nature. His journey, marked by personal loss and the rediscovery of simplicity, offers an intimate look at how the trails become not only a place of physical challenge but also of spiritual sanctuary.

Join us for a narrative steeped in the wild terrain of Cape Town, illustrating how the pursuit of passion often leads to the most unexpected and fulfilling paths.