"The goal is just supposed to stretch you further."

In this episode, author and coach Matt Fitzgerald, discusses his new book launching on March 25 'Chasing Mastery: 25 Lessons to Cultivate Your Full Potential in Endurance Sports' which explores the journey of cultivating full potential in endurance sports. Matt discusses the definitions of success, the importance of motivation, and the common goals athletes pursue. He shares insights on how to achieve mastery through a developmental process and the role of coaching in nurturing athlete motivation. He emphasizes the need for self-regulation and mastery in training, as well as the significance of social connections in enhancing motivation and performance. The dialogue also touches on the concept of 'hard fun' in training, the value of reflective practices, and the unique opportunities provided by his Dream Run Camp.

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Ketone IQ, Get 30% off your first subscription order
• Tifosi Optics 20% off with code TRN
• Wonderful Pistachios
• FREE! Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

Have you ever wondered what the unspoken rules of trail running are? In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we break down some of the unspoken etiquette that keeps trail running enjoyable and safe for everyone. Coach Jimmy Dean Freeman joins us to revisit an episode on etiquette that we published in 2014. From headlamp etiquette and right-of-way rules to the dos and don’ts of using headphones on the trail. The conversation also covers handling bodily fluids, interacting with wildlife, and navigating aid stations efficiently. Proper trail etiquette is important to show respect, communication, and awareness on the trails. Tune in to learn how to be a courteous and responsible member of the trail running community.

We'd love to hear from you. What are some etiquette rules we missed?

• Check out the SoCal Coyotes web page
• Follow the Coyotes on Instagram
• Watch the original video about the Trail Bushido HERE
• Check out the first review of the Bushido from 2020 HERE

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Ketone IQ, Get 30% off your first subscription order
• Peluva, 15% off with code TRAILRUNNER
• UCAN, click on the link to claim the exclusive offer and save 20% on your entire order with code TRN
• FREE! Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

What is the toughest race in the world? According to The Nxorth, the Arrowhead 135 is a strong contender. With an average finish rate below 50%, Race Director Ken Krueger and his team have crafted an event that’s as grueling as it is rooted in old-school camaraderie and a close-knit, family-like community.

Finishers Bob Crowley and Terry Fletcher share their preparation strategies, gear tips, and experiences battling both the elements and their own limits. The discussion covers crucial topics like mental toughness, cold-weather clothing strategies, and dealing with physical challenges like blisters and trench foot. They also highlight the strong sense of community among racers and how enduring such harsh conditions fosters deep camaraderie. Listeners will gain insights into the race’s selective application process, its unique draw for returning participants, and how events like these promote personal growth and self-discovery.

Check out

• Bob's VIDEO from his experience in 2025
• History Expeditions and their YouTube Channel

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Peluva, 15% off with code TRAILRUNNER
• Wonderful Pistachios
• FREE! Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

Endurance athlete, coach, nutritionist and best-selling author Matt Fitzgerald rejoins the podcast to share his journey of resilience and recovery after battling long COVID. He reflects on how the illness challenged his identity as a runner and the strategic approach he took to regain his endurance. Matt discusses his experience training for the Javelina 100 race, the mental resilience required to push through setbacks, and the lessons he’s learned about perseverance. In his upcoming book, astery - What it Means to Be 'Good' at a Sport, he also explores the role of goal-setting, mastery in running, and reframing success. With over 35 books to his name, Matt provides insights into training strategies, mindset, and personal growth in endurance sports.

• Check out Matt's books and coaching services HERE
• Sign up for and experience Dream Running Camp
• Pre-order his new Book, Chasing Mastery - What it Means to Be 'Good' at a Sport

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Ketone IQ, Get 30% off your first subscription order
• Liquid IV, get 20% off your first order with code TRAILRUNNER
• FREE! Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

Are you ready to take your endurance sports mindset to the next level? In this episode we explore the book, Unbeatable Mind: Forge Resiliency and Mental Toughness to Suceed at an Elite Level, by Mark Devine. Coach Adam Kimble joins us as we uncover the power of mental toughness, self-mastery, and preparation in running and life. We review three of the chapters and the golden nuggets that might help you from the four-step process for managing negative thoughts, discuss the role of intuition in high-stakes moments, and explain how mental clarity helps runners navigate chaos with confidence. The conversation also highlights how minimalism and letting go of emotional baggage can improve focus and performance. Authenticity, dedication, and resilience are key to achieving balance across physical, mental, and emotional challenges. Tune in to learn how to train your mind like you train your body and take control of your narrative!

• Check out the very young Adam as he wins the showcase showdown on The Price is Right gameshow. Should the camo cargo shorts come back?
• Hire Adam as a coach
• Buy your next training journal by Adam, Chasing Twilight: A Joy Journal for Runners"

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Shokz, Use code TRN10 for 10% off
• Peluva, 15% off with code TRAILRUNNER
• FREE! Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we invite you to be the guest as we discuss the transformative power of running and highlight its profound impact on mental health, physical fitness, and personal growth. Through personal stories, we explore how trail running provides an escape, fosters resilience, and strengthens community connections. We also discuss the importance of mental toughness, the lessons learned through training, and how running mirrors broader life experiences.

We explore how the process of running—rather than the outcome—yields the greatest rewards, from physical transformation to spiritual connection. We challenge ourselves and the tribe to embrace the journey, prioritize longevity, and find inspiration in the humbling yet empowering challenges of the trail.

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Shokz, Use code TRN10 for 10% off
• Peluva, 15% off with code TRAILRUNNER
• FREE! Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

James Lawrence, the Iron Cowboy, joins The Nation to talk about his extraordinary journey in endurance sports, including his world-record-setting Ironman triathlons. James reflects on overcoming early struggles, the transformative power of mindset, and how embracing suffering shaped his resilience. He highlights the importance of community, gratitude, and hope, sharing emotional stories like helping a boy with cerebral palsy complete a triathlon and a profound moment on Mount Kilimanjaro. The conversation explores lessons of mental toughness, personal growth, and parenting, offering inspiration for achieving extraordinary goals. James also shares insights from his new book that hit the market on January 21, Iron Hope, Lessons Learned from Conquering the Impossible.

Check out these links:

• the documentary on Amazon Prime, "Conquer 100: The Iron Cowboy
• Video of James completing one of his most memorable full-triathlon with Dayton Hayward.
• Jame's podcast, The Grit Show
• Follow James on Instagram

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Peluva, 15% off with code TRAILRUNNER
• Ketone IQ, Get 30% off your first subscription order
• FREE! Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

There is an unwritten code of ethics promoting health, respect, and community support. in trail running. It has existed for longer than any of us. As a tribe or community, we need to know, share, and protect this code. Coach Jimmy Dean Freeman rejoins us after many years to help us understand part of this code. The SoCal Coyotes running club created a short list of some of these codes. This is not comprehensive but shares some of the tenants we all live by and enjoy. We did an episode on this code, aka Coyote Bushido, back in 2012 and reviewed it on an episode in 2020 to see if it is still pertinent.

We start the conversation by talking about the resilience of the trail-running community, particularly in Southern California, as it faces challenges like natural disasters.

• Check out the SoCal Coyotes web page
• Follow the Coyotes on Instagram
• Watch the original video about the Trail Bushido HERE
• Check out the first review of the Bushido from 2020 HERE

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Shokz, Use code TRN10 for 10% off
• Ketone IQ, Get 30% off your first subscription order
• Liquid IV, get 20% off your first order with code TRAILRUNNER
• FREE! Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app