Western States 100 needed an awards show—so we made one. I’m joined by Allison Mercer for the first-ever Westees, a highly serious, extremely prestigious, and entirely made-up award show for the 2025 Western States 100.

We hand out awards like:

BDE: Big Dad Energy

Michigan "Bluff" Award (for premature blowups

Scuba Steve Award

I’m Not Back, I’m Better Award

The Cougar of the Field

The Zach Miller Lookalike Award

...and of course,

Jeff of the Day

We also break down the biggest performances, the carnage, the drama, the livestream chaos, trail fashion disasters, questionable pacing decisions, and how Killian somehow still looks fresh after 100 miles.

If you like trail running, roasting, fashion critiques, or just hearing someone talk trash about professional runners while wearing Janji shorts—this episode is for you

Janji – The best running shorts in the game (and yes, I’m literally wearing them right now).

Use code freeoutside for a discount.

👉 janji.com

GarageGrownGear.com

CSinstant.coffee

Montana Meltdown – Our very own fixed-time race in Bozeman, Montana. 4, 12, and 24-hour options on a beautiful loop course.

👉 Sign up on UltraSignup – just search Montana Meltdown

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Westees Awards

06:08 The Women's Race Highlights

11:58 The Men's Race Highlights

21:45 Awards and Recognitions

28:55 Reflections on Performance and Training

30:25 Celebrating Chris Myers and Brooks' Impact

33:05 The Performance of Hoka and Unsponsored Athletes

39:24 Mo Money, Mo Problems: The Pressure of Sponsorships

42:53 The Rise of Women in Ultra Running

47:00 The Need for Better Storytelling in Ultra Running

51:58 Age is Just a Number: Inspiring Performances

54:58 Consistency and Experience: The Legacy of Jeff Browning

55:57 Hans and His Journey

01:00:00 Sponsorships and Their Impact

01:05:00 Awards and Recognition

01:10:03 FKTs and Trail Challenges

01:15:07 Reflections on the Appalachian Trail

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Email me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.com

Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside

Website: www.Freeoutside.com

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facebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

Western States may be the most iconic race in ultrarunning—but it also comes with carnage, heartbreak, and a pile of DNS and DNF drama. In this episode, I’m joined by the always-entertaining Allison Mercer (of FastestKnownTime.com) to break down the storylines, the runners who didn’t make it to the start line, and wild ideas to spice up the sport (spoiler: mile-seeding starts for elites?).

We also dive into the FKT world—John Kelly’s latest madness, what’s changing in the scene, and why FKTs still matter. Plus, I give a quick life update because I’m moving out, living out of a storage unit, and heading out for an Appalachian Trail FKT attempt.

Big thanks to our sponsors:

🩳 Janji – Great sun hoodies, shorts, and gear. Use code freeoutside for a discount (let me know what you get!).

☕ CS Instant Coffee – Freeze-dried and trail ready.

🎒 Garage Grown Gear – Your one-stop shop for small-business adventure supplies.

Share the episode, leave a review, and help support the chaos. Stay elite, my friends.

Chapters

00:00 In Memoriam: The Unbreakable List

02:05 The Impact of Social Media on Performance

04:58 The Women's Field: Intriguing Storylines

07:46 The Men's Field: A New Dynamic

10:48 The Role of Coaches and Competitors

13:54 Heat Training and Its Influence

16:54 Predictions for the Race

19:53 The Unsung Heroes of Coverage

22:41 Final Thoughts and Predictions

33:32 The Rising Stars of Trail Running

34:47 Analyzing the Men's Field Dynamics

37:13 Des Linden: The Most Valuable Pacer

40:26 Women Transitioning from Road to Trail

42:28 The Importance of Recovery in Ultra Running

48:50 The Impact of Social Media on Athletes

53:02 John Kelly's FKT Attempt: A Community Effort

Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com

Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside

Buy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSF

Email me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.com

Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside

Website: www.Freeoutside.com

Instagram: thefreeoutside

facebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

I just ran the Bighorn 100—no pacers, no headphones, and absolutely no planning. In this episode, I share the full breakdown of how I tackled Wyoming’s classic 100-miler while juggling life stress, sleep deprivation, and a recent pacing stint on the Pacific Crest Trail. From garbage bag drop bags to a ramen-fueled revival at mile 48, this race was anything but conventional.

I talk about the wildflowers, the relentless climbs, the raw and rugged vibe of the race, and why I chose to run it in the middle of prepping for my Appalachian Trail FKT attempt. I also dive into the mental side of ultrarunning—what it means to finish, to recalibrate goals mid-race, and to stop caring about optics when you’re throwing up on the side of a mountain.

This is a race recap, a therapy session, and a reality check all rolled into one. Whether you're training for a 100 or just want to hear how I managed to survive a race with no taper, a busted ankle, and two weeks of pacing fatigue, this one’s for you.

Use code FREEOUTSIDE at Janji.com for sweet gear and check out Garage Grown Gear and CS Instant Coffee to support the show. And if you're feeling generous—or just entertained—drop a five-star review, join the Patreon, or send me a nice email at jeff@freeoutside.com.

Let’s get into it.

Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com

Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside

Buy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSF

Email me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.com

Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside

Website: www.Freeoutside.com

Instagram: thefreeoutside

facebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Recent Adventures

01:54 The Big Horn 100 Experience

12:02 Challenges Faced During the Race

17:51 Lessons Learned and Reflections

25:07 Looking Ahead to Future Goals

In this brutally honest solo episode, I unpack what’s been the most stressful month of my life—losing my apartment, unresolved medical issues, financial pressure, and trying to prep for a 100-miler I haven’t even packed for. Oh yeah, and I’m attempting a self-supported Appalachian Trail FKT in less than a month. No big deal.

But it’s not all chaos. I reflect on the finite nature of miles, what "best" really means, and why shared suffering for the wrong reasons is never worth it. I read from Mike Versteeg’s powerful Colorado Trail FKT post and explore how ego, purpose, and community collide in our outdoor pursuits. If you've ever questioned the "why" behind your adventures—or what you’re asking others to carry for your dreams—this one’s worth a listen.

Mike Versteeg's Colorado Trail: https://satisfyrunning.com/blogs/possessed/colorado-trail-fkt-field-notes

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Life's Challenges

01:30 The Finite Nature of Miles

06:08 Lessons from Failure and Community

09:44 Embracing Adventure Amidst Uncertainty

On this episode of the Free Outside Podcast, I’m joined by coach, ultra runner, and creator Justin Andreas—aka Running in Stash. We talk about his wild transformation from jacked military bodybuilder to golden hour 100-miler finisher and trail coach. We dive deep into his life in Alaska, where training includes moose dodging, sub-zero treadmill marathons, and running in negative 49 degrees… in a singlet.

We cover everything from his Bighorn 100 tips (mud. lots of mud.) to racing in sandals, brushing teeth mid-ultra, taper meltdowns, and why the golden hour might be the most inspiring part of the sport. We even dish out spicy takes on Spring Energy, toothbrush resets, and how coaching is more about emotional support than the perfect workout.

Whether you're a mid-pack legend or an aspiring 200-mile cowboy, this episode brings wisdom, laughs, and plenty of stories from the far north. Also, stay for Justin’s mantra: “Don’t be a hero in the first half. Don’t be a b*tch in the second.”

Chapters

00:00 From Bodybuilding to Ultra Running: A Journey of Transformation

02:59 Preparing for the Bighorn 100: Insights and Experiences

05:58 The Unique Culture of Ultra Running: Community and Support

08:50 Training in Extreme Conditions: The Alaska Experience

11:57 Wildlife Encounters: Running with Nature's Challenges

15:01 The Golden Hour: Celebrating Every Finish

18:05 Learning from Experience: Coaching and Personal Growth

20:55 Mindset Matters: Mantras and Mental Resilience

29:57 Running Rituals and Playful Competition

30:56 The Joy of Running in Sandals

32:49 Camaraderie in Racing

33:22 Physical Fitness Tests in the Air Force

34:33 Lessons from Nutrition Mistakes

38:00 The Magic of Teeth Brushing During Races

40:31 Embracing the Taper

44:47 The Freedom of Trail Running

48:33 The Value of Having a Coach

51:37 Excitement for Upcoming Races

Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com

Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside

Buy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSF

Email me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.com

Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside

Website: www.Freeoutside.com

Instagram: thefreeoutside

facebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

In this solo episode of the Free Outside Podcast, I dive into a topic that every endurance athlete eventually wrestles with: What’s your why?

I unpack what it really means to chase big goals in the era of social media, external validation, and highlight reels. From the pressure of performance posts to the value of community and joy in the moment, this is an unfiltered look at what keeps us coming back to these wild endurance events—even when nobody's watching.

Topics include:

-Why social media can distort your motivation

-The difference between intrinsic and extrinsic goals

-Lessons from my worst FKTs and best trail moments

-The underrated power of fun, struggle, and shared experience

-Why Cocodona doesn’t “make” anyone—and why you do

-Encouragement for media, volunteers, and the mid-pack majority

-And how the ultra/trail community is more diverse than it looks

Whether you're a front-runner, back-of-the-packer, or just love long miles, this episode is a reminder to step back and ask: Why am I really doing this?

Chapters

00:00 Exploring the Intrinsic Why

06:58 The Three Pillars of Motivation

10:12 The Role of Community in Endurance Sports

Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com

Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside

Buy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSF

Email me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.com

Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside

Website: www.Freeoutside.com

Instagram: thefreeoutside

facebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

Kate Pallardy joins the Free Outside Podcast to talk about longevity in ultrarunning, balancing motherhood with elite racing, and how her mindset has evolved over the years. From 100-mile podiums to navigating the chaos of parenting and training, Kate shares how she’s learned to stay present, resilient, and grounded—even when everything feels out of control.

We dive into:

-The reality of training with toddlers and unpredictability

-How mindset work and self-awareness changed her racing

-What she learned from big DNFs—and big wins

-Recovery, sleep, and why less can be more

-And her unique approach to nutrition and fueling

This one’s honest, inspiring, and packed with hard-earned wisdom from one of the most thoughtful voices in the sport.

Follow Kate online:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katepallardy

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuOTtH5LZojo8uZ-hmuosCg

Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com

Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside

Buy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSF

Email me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.com

Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside

Website: www.Freeoutside.com

Instagram: thefreeoutside

facebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kate Palardy

03:05 The Unique Challenge of 100-Mile Races

05:54 Pacing and Shared Experiences in Ultra Running

08:56 Transitioning from Triathlons to Ultra Running

11:51 The Joy of Simplicity in Ultra Running

15:00 Training Differences: Marathons vs. 100-Mile Races

17:56 Life Hacks for Running with Kids

20:54 How Family Life Influences Training

23:57 The Journey to Becoming a Pro Triathlete

27:02 The Process of Earning a Pro Card

33:40 The Evolution of Triathlon

35:02 Rediscovering the Joy of Racing

36:57 Family Dynamics and Racing

40:22 Balancing Family and Athletic Goals

43:33 The Journey of Motherhood and Running

51:06 A Life-Changing 27-Mile Run

59:34 Finding Purpose in Running

In this solo episode of the Free Outside Podcast, I share my full game plan for 2025—including how I’m building from Cocodona 250 to the Appalachian Trail self-supported FKT attempt this August. I break down how I’m training, recovering, testing gear, and optimizing logistics for what could be a once-in-a-lifetime record shot.

We cover:

-How Cocodona fits into my 2025 plan

-Why I’m racing Bighorn 100 as an FKT-style training run

-Nutrition experiments and how I’m training my gut for endurance

-Gear strategy: headlamps, socks, resupply boxes, portable charging

-My flexible (but spreadsheet-heavy) approach to planning FKTs

-The impact of trail damage from hurricanes and federal cuts to trail crews

-And why I think “just eat more” is still the most revolutionary ultra strategy out there

-This is a behind-the-scenes look at what it actually takes to prep for a 2,000+ mile FKT. Plus, I shout out a few sponsors that help make it all possible and give a sneak peek of a secret June project.

🔗 Sponsors:

Janji – Sun hoodies, shorts, and gear I’ll wear on the AT: janji.com

Garage Grown Gear – My go-to for ultralight headlamps and small brands

CS Instant Coffee – The frothy instant coffee I’ll be drinking on-trail

💥 Support the podcast and FKT: patreon.com/freeoutside

Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com

Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside

Buy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSF

Email me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.com

Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside

Website: www.Freeoutside.com

Instagram: thefreeoutside

facebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Year Ahead

02:50 Training and Preparation for Upcoming Races

06:02 Nutrition and Gear for the Appalachian Trail

08:47 Sponsorships and Support for the Journey