Send us a text

From collegiate steeplechaser to trail running phenomenon, Rachel Tomajczyk's athletic journey is one of remarkable resilience and evolution. Fresh from her impressive performance at the Great China Wall Race, Rachel joins us to unpack her experiences competing on one of the world's most iconic landmarks – dealing with brutal climbs, technical descents, and navigating cultural differences along the way.

Rachel pulls back the curtain on the realities of international competition, from the complex visa processes to the camaraderie formed with competitors from across the globe. Her perspective on training solo versus group dynamics offers fascinating insights into the psychology of elite performance, challenging conventional wisdom about what truly helps athletes thrive.

What truly sets this conversation apart is Rachel's candor about her struggles with eating disorders during her collegiate career. She shares how initially associating weight loss with improved performance led to a cycle of injuries that threatened her athletic future. Her journey toward healing wasn't immediate but evolved through painful lessons that have shaped her current approach to health and performance – wisdom that could be life-changing for listeners facing similar challenges.

The business side of professional running receives significant attention as Rachel explains how working with an agent has transformed her sponsorship experiences. She offers rare transparency about contract negotiations and the awkward position athletes face when approached by competitors seeking sponsorship connections – insights that aspiring professionals rarely hear discussed openly.

Throughout our conversation, Rachel's balanced perspective on competition, faith, and defining success reveals why she's not just a formidable competitor but a true ambassador for the sport. Follow her journey on Instagram @rachrunsworld as she continues to dominate the trail running scene while maintaining the refreshing authenticity that makes her story so compelling.

Follow Rachel on IG - @rachrunsworld

Follow James on IG - @jameslauriello

Follow The Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_pod

Follow Ultimate Direction - @ultimatedirectionusa

This episode was brought to you by Ultimate Direction. Use code steepstuffpod for 25% off your purchase !

Send us a text

Step into the world of mountain running's future with Jeremy Strom, the visionary behind Satori Endurance and coaching partner for the Skyrunner World Series. This conversation unveils the transformative potential of bringing authentic European-style sky running to American soil while nurturing the next generation of mountain athletes.

Jeremy's concept of "Satori" – perfect focus without expectations – forms the philosophical foundation for his approach to mountain running. Unlike track or cross-country, mountain running offers a spiritual dimension that creates lifelong connections between athletes and wild places. Through his youth development camps and coaching, Jeremy is building crucial bridges for talented young runners seeking alternatives to traditional collegiate running paths.

We dive deep into the technical elements that make sky running distinct – rope-assisted descents, exposure with real consequences, and terrain that challenges both mind and body. Jeremy explains how his upcoming Sky Camp partnership with Gravity House and the Skyrunner World Series aims to introduce more Americans to this intense mountain discipline while providing comprehensive training in mental preparation, technical skills, and physiological adaptation.

The conversation explores fascinating contrasts between different mountain regions, permitting challenges facing race directors, and what makes events like Broken Arrow so successful. Jeremy's insights on neurofunctional training reveal how elite mountain runners process visual information at superhuman speeds while managing fear and fatigue.

Perhaps most compelling is our discussion of perceived exertion as the ultimate limiting factor in mountain performance. Jeremy shares how changing your mindset can literally change what's physically possible for your body – illustrated by stories of athletes accomplishing seemingly impossible feats on technical mountain terrain.

For anyone fascinated by the evolution of trail running, the mental game of outdoor sports, or the growing accessibility of mountain adventures, this episode offers a masterclass in the science, art, and spirit of running in high places.

Follow Jeremy on IG - @jeremystromcoaching

Check out Satori Endurance - Satori Endurance

Register of Skycamp ! - Skycamp

Register for U23 Trail Camp ! - Elevate Mountain Running Camp

Send us a text

What does it take to reach the elite level of trail running when your body keeps threatening to derail your dreams? Ryan Becker knows this challenge intimately. After fully tearing his Achilles tendon during a college cross-country championship race—and still finishing to earn All-American honors—he's spent years battling chronic tendon issues while quietly becoming one of the most consistent performers on the American trail running circuit.

From his unorthodox beginnings as a tennis player who discovered running relatively late, to his current status as a mountain running stalwart based in Telluride, Colorado, Becker shares the twists and turns of his remarkable journey. His candid discussion about nearly undergoing double Achilles surgery before finding an alternative path to recovery offers hope to anyone dealing with persistent injuries. "Health is really a lot more important than hitting a number of run miles in the week," he explains, detailing how cross-training on the bike and skis has allowed him to maintain world-class fitness despite sometimes running zero miles per week.

Perhaps most fascinating is Becker's thoughtful perspective on the sponsorship world, where he's remained largely on the outside looking in despite impressive results like winning the Kodiak 50K and numerous podium finishes at prestigious events. His reflections on what brands truly value—and whether consistency might sometimes be less marketable than dramatic breakthroughs—provide valuable insight for athletes navigating today's complex landscape. As he looks ahead to potentially tackling the Leadville 100 and continuing to compete at the highest level, Becker's story reminds us that sometimes the most impressive athletic achievements aren't just the victories, but the relentless pursuit of excellence despite significant obstacles.

Whether you're dealing with injuries, questioning your path in endurance sports, or simply appreciate stories of quiet determination, this conversation will leave you with new perspectives on what it means to succeed on your own terms in the mountains. Join us for this deep dive with one of trail running's most respected and resilient competitors.

Follow Ryan on IG - @r_beckz

Follow James on IG - @jameslauriello

Follow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_pod

This episode was brought to you by Ultimate Direction - use code steepstuffpod for 25% off your next order on Ultimatedirection.com

Send us a text

When you hear Lindsay Allison's story, you might wonder how one person balances so many contrasting elements. A Stanford graduate working remotely from Telluride while training at an elite level, Lindsay embodies the modern trail runner who refuses to choose between career and athletic dreams.

From her unexpected athletic background in competitive trampoline to her recent signing with Altra and podium finish at Big Alta 50K, Lindsay takes us through the fascinating journey that brought her to the trails. Her connection to Mount Tam, where she first fell in love with running as a high schooler, provides a beautiful through-line to her current life as a mountain athlete in one of America's most stunning landscapes.

The conversation delves into the realities of living in remote Telluride – a double-edged sword offering unmatched mountain access but presenting logistical challenges that would deter many elite athletes. "You can be in the Alpine at 6 AM and at your desk by 9," Lindsay explains, revealing how she makes the most of this unique training environment despite its limitations. Her insights about the local running community showcase a refreshing perspective where the experience of the mountains trumps metrics and data.

What truly stands out is Lindsay's approach to training volume. Running 100-115 miles weekly while maintaining a full-time job requires extraordinary discipline, yet she discusses it with remarkable practicality. "You have to have a reason for everything you're doing," she shares, offering wisdom about finding the right "imbalance" rather than pursuing perfect life balance.

Looking ahead to Broken Arrow, Speed Goat, and ultimately CCC in the UTMB series, Lindsay's thoughtful race strategy reveals an athlete who knows her strengths and how to maximize them. Her candid discussion about race nutrition, including mishaps and solutions, provides valuable takeaways for runners at any level.

Whether you're fascinated by the lifestyle of elite mountain athletes, curious about balancing professional careers with competitive running, or simply looking for inspiration from someone charting her own path, this conversation delivers honest insights from one of trail running's rising stars.

Follow Lindsay on IG - @l_allison

Follow James on IG - @jameslauriello

Follow The Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_pod

This episode was brought to you by Ultimate Direction! Use code steepstuffpod for 25% off your cart at UltimateDirection.com

Send us a text

Meet Josh Potvin, the Vancouver-based architect who's simultaneously designing buildings and carving his name into the elite trail running scene. Fresh off his victory at the highly competitive Gorge Waterfall 50K, Josh shares the fascinating journey that took him from track roots to mountain summits.

Josh's approach to balancing a demanding professional career with world-class athletic performance offers a masterclass in prioritization. "When I have to get my run in, I stop work and then go back later," he explains, sometimes returning to his desk at 9 PM to finish projects after training. This dedication extends to his preparation—sleeping in his car for a month while working remotely to acclimatize before races at altitude demonstrates just how far he'll go to overcome challenges.

The conversation reveals a crucial turning point in Josh's development: transforming his nutrition strategy. "I just wasn't eating enough," he admits, describing how working with a nutritionist revolutionized his performance by addressing persistent gut issues and increasing his sodium intake during races. This nutritional evolution enabled him to finally push through the final kilometers of races where he previously struggled with cramping, unlocking his full potential on the trail.

Josh shares insights into his training methodology, upcoming races including Broken Arrow and the World Mountain Running Championships, and his mental approach to competition. Whether you're juggling career and athletic pursuits or simply looking to improve your own trail running performance, Josh's thoughtful reflections offer valuable wisdom for navigating both the physical and practical challenges of the sport.

Follow Josh on Instagram @jjpotvin to keep up with his racing schedule and continuing evolution as one of Canada's most promising trail running talents.

Follow Josh - @jjpotvin

Follow James - @jameslauriello

Follow The Steep Stuff Podcast - @steepstuff_pod

This episode was brought to you by Ultimate Direction, use code steepstuffpod for 25% off your next purchase on ultimatedirection.com !

Send us a text

From the first moment Abby Bennett stepped onto the technical, demanding trails of the White Mountains, she knew she'd found her calling – despite having no competitive running background whatsoever. Now, as one of the Northeast's strongest mountain runners, she shares the remarkable journey that's taken her from financial services burnout to mountain race podiums.

What makes someone believe they can reach the pinnacle of a sport they started as an adult? Abby's answer is refreshingly straightforward: an almost "delusional" belief in her future self, coupled with relentless daily consistency. The results are undeniable – multiple podium finishes at the White Mountain Endurance Cup series and a growing reputation in the technical mountain running community.

This conversation dives deep into the reality of training through brutal Northeast winters, where deep cold and minimal daylight create resilient athletes capable of handling any terrain. We explore her ventures into ski mountaineering, her time as an isolated mountain hut caretaker, and the mental challenges of her current injury-induced training pause.

Perhaps most compelling is Abby's perspective on growth potential. Despite her rapid rise, she estimates she's only reached 40% of her ceiling – a testament to her long-term vision of where consistent training might take her over the next decade. For anyone who started their athletic journey later in life, her story offers both inspiration and practical insights into building sustainable success.

Whether you're fascinated by the Northeast's technical racing scene, curious about the mental aspects of injury recovery, or simply drawn to stories of unconventional athletic paths, this conversation will challenge your assumptions about what's possible when unwavering belief meets consistent effort.

Follow Abby on IG - @abby.j.bennett

Follow James on IG - @jameslauriello

Follow The Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_pod

This episode was brought to you by Ultimate Direction USA. Use code steepstuffpod for 25% off your next order on ultimatedirection.com

Send us a text

The transition from collegiate track to mountain trails represents one of running's most fascinating journeys – and Kyla Christopher-Moody is navigating it with remarkable authenticity and talent. Fresh off her selection to the 2025 Trail Team Elite, Kyla joins us to share her path from Michigan high school standout to Montana State University track athlete and now emerging trail running competitor.

Her story isn't the typical straight line to success. After battling persistent injuries at the University of Colorado Boulder, Kyla made the courageous decision to step away from competitive running entirely – a choice she now calls "probably the best decision I've ever made in my life." This reset allowed her to rediscover her passion at Montana State, where mountain trails became her sanctuary during injury recovery. The natural progression to trail racing happened almost accidentally, with a spontaneous entry into the GoPro Games 10K resulting in an impressive fifth-place finish despite minimal specific training.

What makes Kyla's approach refreshing is her process-oriented mindset and genuine love of competition. Rather than setting rigid outcome goals as she enters the trail running scene, she's focused on learning and exploration. "I don't have preconceived notions of what I'm able to do," she explains, demonstrating the healthy perspective that will serve her well as she targets races like Sierre-Zinal and the USATF Mountain Running Championships. Meanwhile, her academic pursuits in snow science perfectly complement her athletic journey, connecting her professional interests with her passion for mountain environments.

Whether you're fascinated by the track-to-trail transition, curious about the emerging pathway for NCAA athletes into mountain running, or simply enjoy authentic conversations with rising stars, Kyla's story offers valuable insights into finding your path – even when it means taking unexpected turns along the way. Give this episode a listen and discover why we're so excited to follow Kyla's trail running journey in the months and years ahead.

Follow Kyla on IG - @Kyla_CM

Follow James on IG - @jameslauriello

Follow The Steep Stuff on IG - @steepstuff_pod

Send us a text

For Devin Pancake, trail running represents much more than a post-collegiate athletic pursuit—it's a thoughtful 30-year journey he's just beginning. Fresh off his win at the Antelope Island Buffalo Run 25K and his selection for the 2025 Trail Team Elite, Devin brings refreshing perspective to a sport that often celebrates immediate success.

The conversation traces Devin's path from running a 4:00 mile at Utah State University to discovering trail running through iconic films like "Where Dreams Go to Die" and "Found on 49." Unlike many collegiate runners who turn to trails after burnout, Devin maintained a healthy relationship with running throughout college, crediting his coach for emphasizing sustainable development over grinding for immediate results.

Devin shares the surreal experience of racing alongside Western States champion Adam Peterman in his first ultramarathon, chatting with the elite runner for miles while pushing his own limits. This story perfectly captures his approach to trail running—competitive but joyful, serious about performance but equally focused on connection and experience. His willingness to return to Speed Goat 50K after a self-described "humbling" first attempt demonstrates his commitment to learning and growth.

What makes Devin's perspective particularly valuable is his balanced enthusiasm for everything from fast 25Ks to potential 100-milers and FKT attempts. Supported by the Trail Team Elite and coached by long-trail master Joe McConaughey through the All-In Collective, he's developing the skills to pursue both competitive excellence and soul-enriching adventures. His inspiration comes from thoughtful pioneers like Courtney Dauwalter and Jared Campbell, reflecting his own view of running as "a form of long-life meditation."

Follow Devin's journey on Instagram @devinpancake as he tackles upcoming challenges including the Desert Rats 21K, Speed Goat 50K, and potentially Sunapee Scramble Mountain Classic while preparing for his Uinta Highline Trail FKT attempt. His story reminds us that the most fulfilling path in trail running might be one that balances serious competition with genuine appreciation for the mountains and community.