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/

_____________________________________________

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

Between the Miles: Choosing Your Hard with Teresa Bowser
In this reflective and honest episode, ECUR listener and bada$$ ultra runner, Teresa Bowser dives into the idea of "choosing your hard"—in running and in life. From the decision between tackling a mountainous race or a flat one, to realizing how comfort zones quietly shape our choices, Teresa shares what she's learned mid-run and beyond. She explores how growth often hides in the unfamiliar and how trying something different hard can be just as powerful as doing something harder. Tune in for insight, vulnerability, and a nudge to push your own limits—and don't forget to share your story too.

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

In this conversation, Kristian Morgan shares his experiences training for the Appalachian Trail (AT) while living in Thailand. He discusses his training strategies, daily routines, nutrition, and the mental resilience required for long-distance running.

Kristian also reflects on his past record attempts, injuries, and the importance of pacing and crew support during these challenges. In this conversation, Kristian Morgan discusses his experiences and challenges with attempting to set a Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the Appalachian Trail.

He shares insights on the mental and physical aspects of ultra running, the importance of support crews, and the impact of natural disasters like Hurricane Helene on trail conditions. Kristian also reflects on his training methods, the concept of mega running, and his aspirations beyond the Appalachian Trail, including raising funds for recovery efforts and writing a book about his experiences.

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

🎙️ Between the Miles: Timing Isn’t Everything
Ever felt like your pace doesn’t stack up? This bite-sized monologue dives into the trap of comparison in ultra running—and why your journey is what really matters. Pocket dates, mile 23 meltdowns, and finding joy in the grind. Your race. No one else’s.

Episode Sponsored by

Leroy's House of Ribs

Sparta TN

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

Surviving GDR 2025 - Tails from the Trail with Amy Johnson & Stephen Ball

In this episode of the East Coast Ultra Running Podcast, Runbum and Scottapants sit down with Georgia Death Race 2025 participants Amy Johnson and Stephen Ball to break down their wild and unforgettable experiences on one of the East Coast’s most grueling ultra courses.

🏆 Amy Johnson took first place female, proving that a love for the journey and a strong mindset can overcome any obstacle. From training with a double stroller to forgetting her headlamp at the start of the race, Amy’s story is a testament to embracing the unexpected, relying on community support, and just going for it. She also shares her thoughts on encouraging more fast runners to tackle the GDR and how her husband’s unwavering support made all the difference.

🤢 Stephen Ball might not have finished first, but his journey was just as inspiring. Balancing a demanding nursing career with race training, Stephen recounts the ups and downs of the GDR, from mental strategies to keep moving, to gastrointestinal struggles that almost derailed his race. With humor and resilience, Stephen talks about breaking the course into mental segments, overtraining on climbs, and the brutal reality of the descents.

Both runners reflect on what they learned from GDR 2025, the importance of community support, and their future goals – including Stephen’s determination to crack a sub-20 next time.

Whether you’re training for your first ultra or eyeing the Georgia Death Race yourself, this conversation is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and the gritty reality of what it takes to conquer the course.

Check out the newest issue of East Coast Ultra Running Magazine!
https://www.eastcoastultrarunning.com/

Episode Sponsored by

Leroy's House of Ribs

Sparta TN

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 of the East Coast Ultra Running Podcast, hosts Sean Runbum Blanton and Scott Abshire discuss the Georgia Death Race, its history, challenges, and notable runners.

We reflect on recent achievements in ultra running, including the Florida trail fastest known time, and delve into the evolution of the Georgia Death Race course over the years. The conversation highlights the physical and mental challenges faced by participants, the significance of course records, and the growing presence of women in ultra running, showcasing upcoming competitors to watch. We dive into the competitive landscape of this years GDR, focusing on both male and female top athletes.

We emphasize the significance of the Georgia Death Race, including its unique challenges and the symbolic burden of the railroad spike.

Check out the newest issue of East Coast Ultra Running Magazine!
https://www.eastcoastultrarunning.com/

Episode Sponsored by

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