In this episode, Bryant Baker takes us on a journey from his days as a river guide to his multifaceted roles as an ultra runner, race director, and community advocate. Bryant delves into how outdoor activities have profoundly impacted his mental health and personal growth, emphasizing the essential role of community and volunteers in making these experiences possible.

We learn about his passion project, the Trifecta race series, and how it has become a force for economic growth and connection in the local community. Bryant also discusses his work as the operations manager at ACE, where he leads transformative outdoor trips for youth through Adventure Appalachia—a nonprofit initiative dedicated to providing free outdoor experiences that build confidence, resilience, and a love of nature.

The conversation touches on the challenges and logistics of race directing and trail building, as well as innovative programs like the run and raft experience, which blend endurance and adventure in new ways. Through it all, Bryant champions the power of the outdoors to heal, uplift, and bring people together.

Rim to River Endurance Co

Check out the Trifecta, or sign up for a Raft and Run expedition!

https://www.rimtoriverendurance.com/

East Coast Ultra Running Magazine

Check out the newest issue!

https://www.eastcoastultrarunning.com/

_____________________________________________

Episode Sponsored by

Runbum Races

Southern Trail Running

https://www.runbumtours.com/

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Trailhead Recreation Co.

"We're just here for the trailhead"

https://www.trailheadrecreation.co/

Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by
Looking Glass Designs, LLC
https://www.lgdesigns.me/
@LGDesigns.me

In this episode, Abigail West shares her inspiring journey of completing a Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the rugged Georgia Loop, a challenging 56 mile route in the Southeast with nearly 14,000 feet of climbing. Abigail dives into the intricacies of preparing for an FKT, highlighting the importance of balancing weather, training, and the invaluable role of crew support. Yes crew is important, but having friends to run with was the most important part for her.

Beyond the stats, Abigail reflects on how FKTs offer a unique way to engage with trails—free from the constraints of a traditional race and deeply rooted in the joy of exploration. She discusses how mindset shapes performance and how positive feedback loops can turn even the toughest days into moments of growth and discovery.

Abigail also opens up about her dual passions for art and running, revealing how linocut printmaking and trail running are intertwined in her life, both demanding creativity, skill, and presence. Her recent FKT, finishing in 11 hours, 4 minutes, and 53 seconds, is a testament to her resilience and dedication.

Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the power of community, the mental fortitude needed to navigate pain, and the importance of finding fun and meaning in the journey—reminding us that whether it’s art, running, or the spaces between, what matters most is embracing the adventure.

Find Abigail West's amazing art

https://abigailwest.net/

Abigail West Patreon: Trailmail

https://www.patreon.com/abigailwest?utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator

East Coast Ultra Running Magazine

Check out the newest issue!

https://www.eastcoastultrarunning.com/

_____________________________________________

Episode Sponsored by

Runbum Races

Southern Trail Running

https://www.runbumtours.com/

_____________________________________________

Trailhead Recreation Co.

"We're just here for the trailhead"

https://www.trailheadrecreation.co/

Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by
Looking Glass Designs, LLC
https://www.lgdesigns.me/
@LGDesigns.me

What happens when two of the fastest women on dirt finally meet? Magic—and a lot of wild trail stories.

In this special episode, we bring together Tara Dower, record-holder of the supported Appalachian Trail FKT, and Deanna Doane, who just completed a blazing supported FKT on the Florida Trail. It’s the first time these two endurance legends have met, and the conversation is as real, raw, and ridiculous as you’d hope.

Alongside them are their crew MVPs—Rascal, who supported Tara’s 40-day AT effort, and Scott, who crewed Deanna for 1,100+ swampy, buggy, baby-food-fueled Florida miles. Together, they unpack the highs, the meltdowns, the midnight poop logs, the foot lube routines, and the mental math gymnastics that go into chasing something huge.

From trail hallucinations and van-life chaos to “don’t tell Tara” crew drama and eating Thai curry through a NutriBullet, this episode dives deep into the unglamorous but epic pursuit of fastest known times. Whether you’re into FKTs, crewing, or just love hearing people suffer beautifully in the name of adventure—this one’s for you.

East Coast Ultra Running Magazine

Check out the newest issue!

https://www.eastcoastultrarunning.com/

_____________________________________________

Episode Sponsored by

Runbum Races

Southern Trail Running

https://www.runbumtours.com/

_____________________________________________

Trailhead Recreation Co.

"We're just here for the trailhead"

https://www.trailheadrecreation.co/

Podcast produced, edited and all wizardly techy things by
Looking Glass Designs, LLC
https://www.lgdesigns.me/
@LGDesigns.me