In this episode of "Free Outside," I, Jeff Garmire, sit down with Shelby Farrell, an incredible trail runner and FKT (Fastest Known Time) record holder. We dive into Shelby's impressive list of FKTs, including the Joshua Tree Traverse, the Backbone Trail, and an incredible attempt at the Long Trail Record. Shelby opens up about her journey into trail and ultra running, living the van life with her cats, and her meticulous approach to training and planning for FKT attempts.

Shelby shares her experiences on the Long Trail FKT attempt, detailing the hurdles she faced, the unwavering support from her crew, and the unexpected moments that made the journey memorable. From enjoying different hot drinks at shelters to dealing with a panic attack and vomiting episode, she recounts the highs and lows of her Long Trail adventure.

Additionally, we discuss the unique challenges that come with FKT attempts, such as unpredictable weather and battling sleep deprivation. I also talk about the filming of Shelby's journey and the exciting upcoming documentary on the Long Trail. Shelby and I share our thoughts on the fun aspect of costumes in trail running and the crucial role of community support in our sport. Tune in for an inspiring and candid conversation filled with insights and behind-the-scenes stories from the world of FKTs and ultra running.

Takeaways

Shelby Farrell is an accomplished trail runner and FKT record holder, known for her FKTs on the Joshua Tree Traverse, the Backbone Trail, and the Long Trail.

Shelby got into trail running after running her first marathon and discovering her competitive drive. She gradually progressed to longer distances and eventually FKT attempts.

Living in a van with cats allows Shelby the freedom to pursue her passion for trail running and explore different trails and FKT challenges.

Planning and preparation are crucial for successful FKT attempts. Shelby utilizes spreadsheets, maps, and communication tools to coordinate with her support crew and stay on track.

Weather and sleep deprivation can pose significant challenges during FKT attempts. Shelby has learned the importance of being adaptable and making smart decisions to ensure safety and success. The Long Trail is a challenging trail that requires mental and physical strength to complete.

Having a supportive crew and pacers can make a big difference in a long-distance trail run.

Unexpected moments and challenges can arise during a trail run, and it's important to adapt and overcome them.

Filming a trail run adds an extra layer of complexity, but it can capture the community and camaraderie of the sport.

Costumes and personal touches can add fun and excitement to trail running events.

Building and supporting trail running communities is important for the preservation and maintenance of trails.

Sound Bites

"I have some exciting news to announce, but I'm not going to announce it yet."

"Shelby has the Joshua Tree Traverse FKT Out and Back Backbone Trail One Way, which, crazy trail, and the Backbone Trail One Way."

"I think after I ran my first marathon, getting the idea that, oh, I could run a Boston qualifying time was really intriguing."

"This was a great experience. So we'll get to do this again and other cool things again."

"I just got so nauseous. Like knew I was going to throw up, but I'm, I just ran 250 miles and I'm like, bundled up in this blanket."

"I think it's going to show a lot of the kind of community side of doing something supported."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Exciting News

00:56 Shelby's Impressive FKTs

05:13 Living in a Van with Cats

11:54 The Long Trail FKT Challenge

19:36 Balancing Support and Independence

27:40 Challenges and Adversity on the Long Trail

32:03 Challenges and Support on the Long Trail

34:30 The Unexpected Moments and Challenges

42:19 Filming the Journey and the Upcoming Documentary

50:59 The Fun of Costumes in Trail Running

53:23 Building and Supporting Trail Running Communities

Keywords

trail running, FKT, ultramarathons, van life, training, planning, weather, sleep deprivation, Long Trail, challenges, support, hot drinks, panic attack, vomiting, crew, filming, documentary, costumes, community

Want to go into depth on what it takes to get an FKT on one of the most competitive trails?

In this episode, I dive into the world of Fastest Known Times (FKTs) on the John Muir Trail (JMT). I provide background information on the JMT, its significance, and the history of FKT attempts on the trail. I then share my own journey of attempting to break the JMT FKT, including the challenges I faced and the strategies I employed. I ultimately break the record by less than 13 minutes.

I emphasize the importance of knowing oneself, setting micro-goals, and persevering in order to achieve FKTs.

Takeaways

-The John Muir Trail (JMT) is a 223-mile long-distance hiking trail in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, known for its breathtaking scenery and challenging terrain.

-FKTs on the JMT have a long history, with the first recorded FKT set in 1980. Since then, numerous athletes have attempted and set records on the trail.

-I successfully broke the JMT FKT, completing the trail in 3 days, 47 minutes, and 56 seconds, less than 13 minutes faster than the previous record.

-Achieving an FKT requires knowing oneself, setting micro-goals, and persevering through challenges and exhaustion.

-FKTs serve as milestones and unlock new distances and challenges for athletes, pushing them to explore their limits and go after new goals.

Sound Bites

"3 days, 47 minutes, 56 seconds. I broke the record by less than 13 minutes."

"It's those micro-goals, that 24-hour period, that knowing what's required... even if it was a bad day, a good day, whatever, you've unlocked that in your mind that you can go a new distance."

"FKTs serve as milestones and unlock new distances and challenges for athletes, pushing them to explore their limits and go after new goals."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Overview

01:00 - The John Muir Trail: Background and Significance

06:45 - My Journey to Break the JMT FKT

09:04 - Strategies for Achieving FKTs: Knowing Oneself and Setting Micro-Goals

15:45 - The Final Push: Overcoming Challenges and Exhaustion

23:05 - Conclusion and Takeaways

Closing music by Rob Riccardo Buy Merch to support: https://www.freeoutside.com/shop Buy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSF Email me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.com Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside Website: www.Freeoutside.com Instagram: thefreeoutside facebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutsideKeywords: Fastest Known Times, FKTs, John Muir Trail, JMT, endurance, hiking, Sierra Nevada, record attempt, perseverance

In this conversation, I talk with Cal Schwartzentruber and discuss experiences with thru-hiking and setting FKTs (Fastest Known Times) on various trails. We talk about the challenges and motivations behind attempting FKTs, the importance of planning and preparation, and the differences between the Appalachian Trail (AT) and Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). We also touch on the growing popularity of FKTs and the potential for more competitive times in the future.

Follow Cal on Instagram:

Takeaways

• Thru-hiking and setting FKTs require careful planning and preparation, especially when it comes to food and gear choices.
• The Appalachian Trail (AT) and Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) offer different challenges and experiences, with the PCT being more scenic and well-maintained.
• FKTs on longer trails often have limited competition, making it an opportunity for thru-hikers to set impressive times.
• The popularity of FKTs is growing, and more competitive times are expected in the future as athletes optimize their strategies and take advantage of advancements in gear and weather forecasting.
• Thru-hikers have a unique advantage in FKT attempts due to their problem-solving skills and ability to make decisions on the go.
• The choice between the AT and PCT is subjective, but many hikers prefer the PCT for its stunning views and more straightforward logistics.

Sound Bites

• "There's always that, you know, uh, yeah, you just got a fucking record on some things, but you're like, ah, well, actually it's not actually that great of a record and I could have done it better and all these things."
• "The longer the trail is, I think the more competitive I am. But then you get into like, I would not probably be as competitive on like something like the PCT, but unsupported life. This is a niche that, um, there's not really any competition."
• "PCT is my pick. I would do the PCT over and over and over and over and over again. I loved that trail and the AT, I had a fantastic time. Wouldn't change anything about it and don't regret a second. However, I don't know that I'll ever do that one again."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Discussion of FKTs

08:59 The Challenges and Motivations of Attempting FKTs

41:27 The Differences Between the AT and PCT

43:42 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

Keywords thru-hiking, FKTs, Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, challenges, motivation, planning, preparation, differences, popularity, competitive times

This episode of the Free Outside Podcast explores the history and rise of 200-mile races, and pedestrianism. I share my personal experience with backpacking and the mental health benefits of outdoor adventures and then delves into the origins of pedestrianism in the 19th century, where competitive walking was a popular sport.

We explain how 200-mile running races evolved from the Western States 100 and the Tevis Cup, and highlights notable races such as the Tahoe 200, Bigfoot 200, Moab 240, and Cocodona 250. I discusses the challenges, camaraderie, and immersive nature of these races, as well as the increasing popularity and high cost of participating in them.

Takeaways

200-mile races, or 200s, have gained popularity in the ultrarunning community

The origins of 200s can be traced back to pedestrianism in the 19th century

Notable 200-mile races include the Tahoe 200, Bigfoot 200, Moab 240, and Cocodona 250

These races offer challenges, immersive experiences, and a sense of camaraderie

Participating in 200s can be expensive due to race fees and logistics

Sound Bites

"I just got back from a backpacking trip. I just needed to get out."

"I got my mental health reset with some backpacking."

"Let's dive into the history of pedestrianism, the history of 200s."

Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Experience

02:20 The History of Pedestrianism and the Origins of 200s

10:46 The Triple Crown of 200s

22:15 Challenges, Camaraderie, and Immersion in 200-Mile Races

25:04 The Increasing Popularity and Cost of Participating in 200s

Buy Merch to support: https://www.freeoutside.com/shop Buy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSF Email me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.com Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside Website: www.Freeoutside.com Instagram: thefreeoutside facebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutsideKeywords200-mile races, history, rise, pedestrianism, Western States 100, Tevis Cup, Tahoe 200, Bigfoot 200, Cocodona 250, challenges, camaraderie, popularity, cost

We talk about filling out your dash, living a full life. Then I interview Liz Derstine, an accomplished trail runner and FKT (Fastest Known Time) record holder. We discuss Liz's trail name, her experience on the Appalachian Trail, her connection with Warren Doyle, and her transition to self-supported FKT attempts.

Liz also shares her challenges with blisters, animal encounters, sleep deprivation, and hallucinations during her FKTs. She discusses balancing her running and music careers and expresses her love for long-distance trail FKTs. The episode concludes with Liz's recent FKT attempt on the Colorado Trail and her support for her friend's FKT attempt on the same trail after hers ended.

Follow Liz on Instagram

Takeaways

• Liz Derstine, also known as Mercury, is an accomplished trail runner and FKT record holder.
• She gained her trail name from a song she listened to while preparing for a practice hike on the Appalachian Trail.
• Liz's first through-hike and FKT attempt was on the Appalachian Trail, with Warren Doyle as her support.
• She was inspired by Jennifer Pharr Davis and Scott Jurek's books and attended a workshop by Warren Doyle to mentally prepare for the AT.
• Liz transitioned to self-supported FKT attempts on trails like the Long Trail and the Penhody Trail.
• She faced challenges such as blisters, animal encounters, sleep deprivation, and hallucinations during her FKT attempts.
• Liz balances her running and music careers, using her run commute as a way to decompress at the end of the day.
• She finds joy in long-distance trail FKT attempts and plans to continue pursuing them in the future.
• Liz also values the supportive nature of the trail running community and the willingness to help each other achieve their goals.

Sound Bites

• "Jerry filled out his dash"
• "Fill out that dash"
• "How did you get your trail name?"

Chapters

00:00 Remembering Jerry West and Filling Out the Dash

03:25 Getting the Trail Name Mercury

05:24 Connecting with Warren Doyle and Starting the Appalachian Trail

09:46 Learning and Preparing for the AT

13:33 Challenges on the Trail: Blisters, Animal Encounters, and Sleep Deprivation

18:54 Dealing with Sleep Deprivation and Pushing Through

22:17 Hallucinations and Mind Games on the Trail

25:08 Transitioning to Self-Supported FKT Attempts

30:27 Running Commute and Balancing Running and Music Careers

32:53 The Joy of Long-Distance Trail FKTs

36:42 Supportive Nature of the Trail Running Community

41:34 Last Person Standing Style and Overcoming Mental Blocks

43:56 Most Enjoyable Experiences: Swiss Via Alpina and Colorado Trail

Keywords: trail running, FKT, Liz Durstein, Appalachian Trail, self-supported, blisters, animal encounters, sleep deprivation, hallucinations, balancing, long-distance trail, Colorado Trail

Buy Merch to support: https://www.freeoutside.com/shop Buy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSF Email me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.com Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside Website: www.Freeoutside.com Instagram: thefreeoutside facebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

Send in podcast ideas Jeff@freeoutside.com

AI joins this podcast and conducts the interview, so we are going third person in the description. Jeff Garmire discusses his journey and experiences in long-distance hiking and ultra running. He shares how he got into these activities and the challenges he faced along the way. Jeff also talks about the importance of mental and physical preparation for setting FKTs (Fastest Known Times) on trails, as well as the role of nutrition and hydration in his training. He emphasizes the need to find fun and enjoyment in these activities and to have a strong why. Jeff also discusses the balance between solitude and connections within the hiking and ultra running communities, and the importance of finding a supportive community. He shares stories of unexpected moments on the trail and how he adapted to challenges. Jeff concludes by encouraging others to pursue their own adventures and to make a positive impact on individuals and local businesses. -Long-distance hiking and ultra running require mental and physical preparation, as well as finding enjoyment and fun in the activities. -Having a strong why and a supportive community are important factors in achieving success in FKT attempts and races. -Balancing solitude and connections within the hiking and ultra running communities can be challenging but rewarding. -Adapting to unexpected challenges and finding creative solutions is crucial in long-distance hiking and FKT attempts. -Making a positive impact on individuals and supporting local businesses can contribute to a thriving hiking and ultra running community. Sound Bites "I have this awesome idea and we're gonna try it." "Welcome to the show, Jeff. It's great to have you here." "Jamil Curry of Aravaipa Racing asked if I wanted to do the inaugural year of Cocodona 250." Chapters 00:00 Jeff Garmire's Journey and Experiences 05:33 Challenges and Triumphs in Long-Distance Hiking and Ultra Running 09:00 Preparing for FKT Attempts: Physical and Mental Resilience 12:23 Finding Fun and Inspiration in the Outdoors 24:39 Logistics and Planning for Successful Long-Distance Hikes and FKT Attempts 31:47 The Evolving World of Through Hiking and Ultra Running 35:03 Jeff Garmire's Message: Enjoy, Inspire, and Support Buy Merch to support: https://www.freeoutside.com/shop Buy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon Email me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.com Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside Website: www.Freeoutside.com Instagram: thefreeoutside facebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside Keywords long-distance hiking, ultra running, FKT, mental preparation, physical preparation, nutrition, hydration, balance, community, challenges, adaptation, enjoyment, support, impact, ultralight backpacking, backpacking, thru hiking, ultrarunning, Fastest Known Time, Speed Record, Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Arizona Trail, Continental Divide Trail, trail running

The conversation with Lloyd Vogel, co-founder of Garage Grown Gear, delves into the challenges and successes of running an e-commerce platform for small outdoor gear businesses. Lloyd shares insights on the state of the industry, the crossover between different outdoor disciplines, lessons learned from starting a business, and the importance of supporting small brands. The conversation also explores the process of finding and working with small brands, the impact of growth in the outdoor industry, and the strategic focus on ultralight backpacking. The podcast covers a wide range of topics related to the outdoor industry, including product innovation, market growth, the impact of outdoor activities on personal development, and the challenges of starting and running a business. The discussion also delves into the interconnectedness of various outdoor activities and the inclusive nature of the outdoor industry. This is a big episode from one of the biggest players in the cottage backpacking and thru hiking industry that also extends into FKTs, fastpacking, bikepacking, and trail running. Check out Garage Grown Gear Takeaways -Running a business involves embracing failure and challenges as an integral part of the journey. -The cottage industry is a source of innovation and creativity in the outdoor gear market. -Supporting small brands and fostering genuine relationships is crucial for sustainable growth in the e-commerce space. -Strategic focus and niche specialization are key to success in the competitive outdoor gear market. The outdoor industry is experiencing growth and innovation, with a focus on ultra-light gear and niche products. Personal experiences in outdoor activities can inspire product innovation and development within the industry. -The outdoor industry fosters a sense of community and inclusivity, with a shared passion for spending time outside. -Starting and running a business in the outdoor industry requires focus, patience, and the ability to adapt to challenges and failures. -The interconnectedness of outdoor activities highlights the similarities and shared experiences across different disciplines within the industry. Sound Bites "You can't just expect yourself to be perfect. You have to expect and know that failure and challenge is part of running a business." "The outdoor industry is having a hard time because everyone's kind of selling the same thing. It makes you generic, boring, and uninteresting." "For most of our brands, the only other place that you can buy it other than on their site directly is through us." "It's my responsibility to take those reflections and infuse them back into my other relationships." "Gear is always a reflection of the human desire to spend more time outside." Chapters 00:00 Embracing Failure and Challenges in Business 02:17 The Cottage Industry: A Source of Innovation 07:05 Fostering Genuine Relationships with Small Brands 26:22 Exploring Innovation and Growth in the Outdoor Industry 29:40 The Impact of Outdoor Activities on Product Development 41:47 Challenges and Rewards of Starting a Business in the Outdoor Industry 45:25 The Inclusivity and Interconnectedness of Outdoor Activities Buy Merch to support: https://www.freeoutside.com/shop Buy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSF Email me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.com Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside Website: www.Freeoutside.com Instagram: thefreeoutside facebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside Keywords e-commerce, small businesses, outdoor gear, cottage industry, entrepreneurship, brand discovery, ultralight backpacking, growth strategy, outdoor industry, product innovation, market growth, personal development, starting a business, interconnectedness, inclusivity, backpacking, thru hiking, records, fastest known time, FKT

I answer the audience question: "I'd love to hear more about your mental health journey as an ultrarunner. This community is wonderful, but it's also cutthroat and I'd love to hear how you've navigated the ups and downs."

Send in any questions at jeff@freeoutside.com

I share my mental health journey as an ultrarunner, FKT'r, and thru hiker, discussing the struggles, experiences, and the tools to navigate the ups and downs.

I reflect on my journey from depression and loneliness to finding fulfillment through immersive experiences, therapy, and community.

The story emphasizes the importance of finding the right tools at the right time and the ongoing balance of personal and growth goals.

Takeaways

The journey through mental health is a bumpy road with ups and downs, but finding the right tools at the right time is crucial.

Immersive experiences, therapy, and community play a significant role in navigating mental health challenges and finding fulfillment.

Balancing personal goals with coaching goals and finding fulfillment through sharing and creating are essential aspects of the journey.

Recognizing the need for drastic change and stepping back to eliminate certain things in order to move forward is a crucial part of the mental health journey.

Sound Bites

"I'd love to hear more about your mental health journey as an ultrarunner. This community is wonderful, but it's also cutthroat and I'd love to hear how you've navigated the ups and downs."

"It's just as immersive. Like one goal is sitting out there. Life is so simple. You're going after this one thing. All your decisions point towards being successful."

"I knew that that was the only option at the time, and in order to move forward, I needed to step back and eliminate those things and then build back up."

Buy Merch to support: https://www.freeoutside.com/shop Buy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSF

Email me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.com Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside Website: www.Freeoutside.com Instagram: thefreeoutside facebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside

Keywords

mental health, ultrarunner, depression, immersive experiences, therapy, community, balance, coaching goals, ultrarunning, Appalachian trail, pacific crest trail, continental divide trail, Arizona trail, grand enchantment trail