Coach Loretta is joined by physical therapist Dr. Liesle Elsey to revisit a topic many runners and active women are navigating right now: perimenopause, postpartum in perimenopause, and menopause. In this episode of The Dirt, we talk about what's actually happening in the body during hormonal shifts—and what helps. From changing recovery needs and joint stiffness to fluctuating energy and performance frustration, we share practical strategies around mobility, strength training, and recovery that support longevity and confidence. This is a grounded, honest conversation focused on helping you adapt your training—not quit it—so you can stay strong, resilient, and in the sport and life for the long run, even when the hormone roller coaster feels unpredictable. If you've ever felt "off" despite doing all the right things, this episode is for you.
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.
In this episode, Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay chat with Coach Reese about his second-place finish at Tunnel Hill 100. Reese walks through the race from start to finish — pacing, fueling, and how he managed the day — plus a look at how he structured his training leading into it and what's coming next in his season.
Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay recap the Hennepin 100, share tips on communicating with your crew during races, supporting athletes post-race and discuss how they stay connected with athletes throughout the week. Plus, a look ahead to Lily Medina's final race of the series. Real races. Real coaching. This is The Dirt.
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.
From niggles to the big picture: we cover injury coping, recovery tools, and how to adjust training and goals—plus a look ahead to Hallucination 100.
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.
Part 3 of our Midwest Super Slam mini-series! Coaches Loretta and Lindsay sit down with athlete Lily Medina after Burning River 100—her third 100-miler of the Slam—where she remains first overall. We break down the highs, lows, and hard lessons from Ohio and look ahead to Hallucination 100 in six weeks. In this episode: Burning River debrief: lows and highs problem-solving on the fly Fueling wins & fixes after three 100s What's holding up vs. what needs TLC (body + brain) Six-week rebuild: training, recovery, and taper priorities Loop-course tactics for Hallucination 100 and managing heat/humidity Competing while leading the Slam: pressure → performance If you're chasing your first 100—or your fourth—this one's packed with practical takeaways.
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.
In this episode, Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay catch up on summer adventures and racing highlights. Coach Loretta shares stories from her vanlife travels out west—exploring new places, logging trail miles, and staying prepared just in case wild animals showed up (spoiler: they didn't, but she was ready!). We dive into tips for running in the heat, how to prep for wild encounters, weather, elevation and reflect on some epic recent races like Badwater and Hardrock.
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.
On this episode of The Dirt with Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay, we're joined once again by Ornery Mule Coaching athlete Lily Medina for a raw and inspiring recap of her second race in the Midwest Super Slam: the Kettle Moraine 100. Lily opens up about the tough patches she faced on the trail and how she pushed through the lows to make it to the finish. Whether you're chasing your first buckle or you've got dozens under your belt, there are golden nuggets in this episode for every runner. Tune in to hear about the mental grit, strategy shifts, and support that carried Lily through race #2 of this epic five-100-milers-in-4.5-months challenge.
This episode of The Dirt, Coaches Loretta and Lindsay sit down with special guest and Ornery Mule Coaching athlete Lily Medina, who's deep into one of the craziest ultra running challenges out there—the Midwest Super Slam of Ultras. That's five 100-mile races—Mohican, Kettle Moraine, Burning River, Hallucination, and Indiana Trail—crammed into just four and a half months. Lily kicked things off with a bang, taking 1st overall female at the Mohican 100 with a blazing time of 22:44:12. We dive into her mindset, training, recovery tactics, and what fuels her passion for back-to-back hundos. Tune in for trail-tested wisdom, laughs, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to tackle the Super Slam. https://www.ornerymuleracing.com/
Join Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay as they share their latest race experiences and upcoming challenges. Lindsay reflects on her adventures and Cruel Jewel and upcoming races San Diego Rock and Roll Marathon and the Jackal -5 back to back marathons. Loretta discusses her time volunteering at the Love For Lily Charity event at Colfax Marathon and pacing at the Bay Shore Marathon, plus her upcoming crewing at Western States 100. They also highlight Ultra Crazy Runner Strava Event on June 4 for Global Run Day. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, this episode is filled with inspiration and community spirit!
From porta potty panic to legendary race shorts, Coaches Lindsay and Loretta share listener-submitted stories that prove every trail runner has a hilarious tale. Laugh with us — because if it's not weird, it's not ultrarunning. Whether you're a seasoned ultrarunner or just here for the chaos, this one's for you. Because if you can't laugh at yourself… you're probably doing it wrong.
Ultrarunning teaches us how to adapt, stay calm in chaos, and turn failure into fuel. In this episode, Loretta and Lindsay share real race stories, quick-thinking strategies, and how to carry lessons from the trail into everyday life. Whether you're chasing a finish line or navigating challenges off the trail, this one's for you. Listen now to embrace the grit and grow through the grind. https://www.ornerymuleracing.com/ https://www.trailrun.coach/
In this episode of *The Dirt Podcast*, Coaches Loretta and Lindsay explore essential training programs tailored for Trail Runner University. Whether you're aiming to improve your speed, conquer vertical climbs, or embark on your first 5K, this episode has something for everyone. We'll break down: **Speed Development**: Discover our 10-week program focused on boosting your pace through targeted interval training and tempo runs. **Vertical Gain Training**: Learn how to tackle those steep ascents with strength-building workouts designed specifically for climbing. **Couch to 5K**: For beginners, our structured plan will guide you from walking to running your first 5K, with tips to keep you motivated along the way. **Mileage Goals**: Whether you're setting your sights on 100, 200, 300, 400 or even 500 miles in 10 weeks. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, this episode will empower you to reach new heights on the trails!
In this episode of **The Dirt**, Coaches Loretta and Lindsay dive into the unique journey of mid to back of the pack runners. They explore the challenges faced during training, from pacing to mental hurdles, and share practical tips to enhance your running experience. What You'll Learn: - **Understanding Your Journey**: Discover the common obstacles that back of the pack runners encounter and how to navigate them. - **Practical Training Tips**: Gain actionable strategies for long runs, pacing adjustments, and setting personal goals. - **Overcoming Doubt**: Learn how to combat self-doubt during training and the importance of trusting the process. Join us for a supportive discussion that emphasizes community and personal progress in your running journey. Lace up your shoes and get ready to be inspired! Don't forget to subscribe and connect with us on social media!
In this episode of "The Dirt," hosts Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay dive into the critical topic of aging athletes. Join us as we explore the physiological changes that come with age, effective injury prevention strategies, and the importance of nutrition for maintaining performance. We'll also discuss how to adjust your training to accommodate these changes and tackle the mental aspects of staying motivated as you age. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate your running journey at any stage of life. Tune in and discover how to keep your passion for running alive, no matter your age!
Join hosts Coach Loretta and Coach Lindsay on The Dirt Coaches Edition as we explore the DNF (Do Not Finish) recovery mindset. Discover how to process your feelings and grief, tackle common DNF reasons and implement effective strategies moving forward. *In this episode you'll learn: *How to embrace a growth mindset *Practical do's for training, fueling and time management *Reframing techniques to turn negative thoughts into motivations. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights to help you recover and succeed in your next race!
In this episode of Coffee with Coaches, get to know Coach Natalie! Reese & Loretta are joined by Coach Natalie to discover her background, experiences, & style that make her a great coach with OMC. You'll hear about Natalie's background, family life, running history, & experience her kind personality come through in this week's podcast! Rate, like, subscribe, & share the podcast!
Get schooled with Trail Runner University! Want a winter running challenge that includes a 10 week program, swag, community, & trials to get you to your mileage goal through the cold months? If so, sign up for "TRU"! In this episode, OMC coaches Loretta & Reese give you the breakdown of what, when, & how this challenge unfolds! Got a friend who needs a little push through the winter months? Share the pod & give them the gift of fitness & community at Trail Runner University!
In this episode, Coach Reese interviews coach Loretta after finishing her FKT across the entire state of Michigan! Get the inside scoop on how she tackled a multi-day effort & crushed the route! Topics include… 1.) FKT recap 2.) Sleep strategy 3.) Training for a multi-day FKT 4.) Loretta's learnings & more! Train as hard as you can while being smart. Now go get after YOUR goal! ultracrazyrunner.com
In this episode, coaches Loretta, Reese, & athlete Sam Stimac join together to talk about Sam's experiences in her training leading up to the iconic UTMB. Hear first hand how her race unfolded, how her training lead up to a fantastic performance, & personal trials navigating previous injuries. Sam is a great example of how having fun, putting in the work, & a solid plan can all lead to a knockout racing season.
Coach Reese shares his journey to victory at the Hennepin Hundred, where he finished first overall. Alongside Coach Loretta, they dive deep into the mental struggles that accompany long-distance racing, offering a transparent look at the challenges faced on race day. This episode is not just about the triumphs but also the realities of the mental game of ultra running. Tune in for the inspiring and authentic conversation that will resonate with runners of all levels.
Join us on this episode of Coffee with Coaches for our special guest coach Scott Struck! Coach Scott has 10 combined 100 mile finishes between Hennepin & Tunnel Hill & he's here to share his wisdom! Hear about how this year's Hennepin 100 unfolded & how it has compared to the previous 4 other Hennepins he has ran. How has Scott's fueling strategy develop over time? How has Scott's mindset & race plan evolved over time? Tune in if you're looking for veteran wisdom from our dear friend, Coach Scott Struck! & this just in - Coach Scott is taking on more athletes! Contact us via the website to get in touch.
Running & Motherhood - the truth about an active life before, during & after pregnancy! Join OMR coaches Reese & Loretta with their favorite PT, Dr. Liesle Else, as they explore how pregnancy impacts active mothers! No topic is off the table for these three, & it's important to encourage open conversations so we're all armed with knowledge about how we can support the active mothers in our community. Get the scoop on this episode with some fun conversation between these three!
What does it really mean? Who needs to be thinking about it? How does it relate to my ultra performance? In this episode of Coffee with Coaches, Loretta and Reese debunk the common way they hear TOF used with their athletes. Yes, we want as much TOF as possible, but not-we don't want you to count standing all day. What does that mean? Tune in & Find Out ornerymulecoaching.com
In this episode of Coffee with Coaches, OMC coaches Loretta & Reese & joined by coach Jacob Moss - all the way from France! Tune in to hear about how coach Jacob is preparing for Spartathlon, the 153 mile race tracing the legendary trek made by Pheidippides. Hear how coach Jacob is adjusting to altitude, workouts he is running, as well as how he is going to fuel for the effort! Make sure to give us a like, subscribe, & rate for more ultra-running delivered to your feed!
