"The Dirt" Trailrunning Podcast

Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay sit down with Dr. Scott McLean (Michigan Medicine) to talk all things sun protection for runners, along with a new initiative called Sunbeasts. They cover why runners are especially at risk for sun damage, how to monitor moles and skin changes, and practical ways to protect yourself—like choosing effective SPF, reapplying strategies, and using protective clothing. The conversation also touches on real-world application at major endurance events like UTMB, Western States (WSER), and the Huron 100.

Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay dig into the moments before the race: getting to the starting line, DNFs, and the fine line between being prepared and under prepared. We share honest stories and coaching tips, and mindset shifts for athletes and everyday people who feel "not ready" even when they are Learn how to decide whether you should run a race, the real dangers of racing without proper training, and why pushing to finish can sometimes do more harm than good and how to overcome perfectionism so you actually get to the start line.. This episode balances mindset work with safety-first guidance for athletes and everyday people who want to start, finish, and do it well. Subscribe for more coaching conversations, leave a review if this episode helped you make better race-day choices, and share with someone facing a big start line.

In this episode of The Dirt, Coaches Loretta Tobolske-Horn and Lindsay dig into one of the most overlooked, high-impact phases of the running year: transition season. This is the season where runners reset, rebuild, and refocus — not by chasing mileage, but by tightening the processes that ultimately make performance goals possible. We break down: Why transition season is the ideal time to focus on process goals (think: consistency, strength habits, agility work, mindset, technique, movement quality, mobility, fueling routines) How process goals create the foundation for long-term performance and why outcomes get easier when you stop obsessing over them The value of working with a coach: When to start, how coaching changes your training trajectory, and what support actually looks like If you're ready to train smarter, make your running more adaptable, and build confidence heading into your next build — this episode will give you the roadmap.

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Coaches Loretta and Lindsay sit down with Lily Medina, just after she completed Hallucination 100—her fourth 100-miler of the Slam—finishing 3rd overall female. Loretta crewed Lily for this race, giving listeners an inside look at pacing, fueling, and support strategies. In this episode: Hallucination 100 recap: toughest sections, standout moments, and lessons learned Crew and pacer insights from the road Physical and mental reflections after four 100s Mindset, motivation, and advice for multi-race ultra runners If you've ever wondered what it takes to run multiple 100-milers in a season, this episode is packed with actionable tips, inspiration, and ultra wisdom.

In this Show & Tell episode of The Dirt Podcast, Coaches Loretta and Lindsay are joined by Coach Scott to share their favorite running gadgets and recovery tools. From hydration tech and trekking poles to timers, massage tools, and recovery aids, we break down what actually works and why we love it.

On this episode of The Dirt Trail Running Podcast, Coaches Loretta and Lindsay sit down with special guest Coach Madeline Harms—developmental psychologist, professor, and running coach—to dive into the mental side of racing and training. We unpack what it means to "choke" during a race, how panic attacks can derail even the best preparation, and the difference between process goals and outcome goals. Coach Madeline shares strategies for reflection, using visualization, and finding the courage to toe the starting line again after setbacks. We also explore the pressure athletes face from social media and how it affects runners at all levels—not just elites. Whether you're chasing a PR or just trying to finish, this episode is packed with practical takeaways to strengthen your mental game and find joy in the process.

Join hosts Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay from Ornery Mule Coaching as they welcome athlete Russell Stratton to the Dirt Podcast. In this candid conversation, Russell shares his experience at the Western States Endurance Run, where he faced the tough reality of a DNF (Did Not Finish) after missing the cutoff at the Last Chance aid station. Together, they explore the challenges of race day, the mental and emotional toll of not finishing, how even elite athletes struggle with their own hurdles and the lessons learned from setbacks in endurance sports. Russell opens up about his training journey, the significance of his crew and the importance of mental resilience. Tune in for an insightful discussion about perseverance, vulnerability, and the support of the running community as they navigate the highs and lows of the sport. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.