🏃‍♂️ "I never thought a running group would change my life—but it did."

In this episode of Trail Chasers, we sit down with Mike Obery to talk about the power of community in trail running. Mike shares how finding a running group not only helped him become a better runner but also introduced him to a supportive, inspiring community that made every trail run more fun and meaningful.

From feeling uncertain about joining a group to discovering the friendships, motivation, and shared adventures that come with it, Mike opens up about the impact of running with others—and why finding your community can make all the difference. Whether you're just starting or looking to connect with fellow trail runners, this episode will show you why you don’t have to go it alone.

🔥 What you’ll learn in this episode:
✅ Why running groups can be the best way to start trail running 🤝
✅ How community helps beginners build confidence & stay consistent 🏃‍♂️
✅ Overcoming fears of joining a new group & finding the right fit 😅
✅ The unexpected benefits of running with others—beyond fitness 🚀
✅ Tips for getting involved in your local trail running community 🌍

💬 Join the conversation! Share your experience with trail running groups on Instagram @trailchaserspod

🎙 Season 3 is sponsored by Gilnokie Socks 🧦
Visit gilnokie.com and use the code TRAILCHASERS at checkout for 20% off your first order! 🎉

📩 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and invite a friend to hit the trails with you! 🎙

"I could bench press over 100kgs, but I couldn’t walk 5KMs." 🤯

In this special solo episode of Trail Chasers, Dean takes the mic alone for the first time to share his personal journey—how a passion for communication led him from university radio 🎙️ to the world of podcasting, and how trail running 🏔️ completely transformed his life.

From lifting heavy in the gym 💪 to struggling through his first run 😅, Dean opens up about the pivotal moments that changed everything—his struggles, breakthroughs, and why the trails became his true home. Plus, he shares what’s next for Trail Chasers—a podcast built to inspire, educate, and ignite your passion for trail running! 🚀

If you're looking for motivation to take that first step onto the trails, this episode is for YOU! 🔥

✨ What you’ll learn in this episode:
✅ How a love for radio & storytelling led Dean to podcasting 🎙️
✅ The unexpected moment that changed his perspective on health & fitness 🤯
✅ How COVID turned into the push he needed to start running 🦠➡️🏃‍♂️
✅ The struggle of road running & why the trails felt like home 🌿
✅ The mission behind Trail Chasers & what’s coming next! 🚀

💬 Join the conversation! Share your trail running journey on Instagram @trailchaserspod or reach out to Dean personally @deanhorwitz_—let’s grow this amazing community together! 🌍🏃‍♂️

🎙 Season 3 is sponsored by Gilnockie Socks 🧦
Visit gilnocki.com and use the code TRAILCHASES at checkout for 20% off your first order! 🎉

📩 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and let’s chase trails together! 🎙

What if I told you that the secret to becoming a stronger, faster, and injury-free runner isn’t just running more—but running smarter?

In this episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz sits down with Brendan Lombard, an elite runner, coach, and sports scientist, to break down the art and science of training smarter, not harder. With years of experience coaching athletes worldwide, Brendan shares insights on balancing performance, recovery, and longevity in trail running.

Brendan reveals how coaching, mindset, and training strategies can transform your running, whether you're a beginner or an ultra-endurance athlete. From avoiding burnout to optimizing race-day performance, this conversation is packed with game-changing advice.

🔑 What to Expect in This Episode:

🏃‍♂️ The biggest training mistakes runners make—and how to avoid them
💡 How to balance intensity and recovery for long-term success
⏳ Why periodization and smart training are crucial for performance
🔥 The difference between road and trail training—and how to transition
🛑 When to push through and when to pull back to prevent injury

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to break through training plateaus, set big goals, and unlock their full potential on the trails.

🔊 Tune in now and learn how to run stronger, train smarter, and avoid burnout!

What if I told you that one woman’s vision, a simple WhatsApp group, and a desire for connection could create a movement that empowers women in trail running?

In this episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz sits down with Bryony McCormick, the founder of Chicks Who Trail, to explore how a small idea became a thriving community that’s reshaping the trail running landscape for women. What started as a way to bring women together on the trails has evolved into a powerful network of support, encouragement, and adventure.

Bryony shares how Chicks Who Trail has created a safe space for women to hit the mountains, overcome fears, and discover the transformative power of trail running. From the importance of community to the real challenges women face on the trails, this conversation is an eye-opening look at how one group is making a difference.

🔑 What to Expect in This Episode:

🏃‍♀️ The origins of Chicks Who Trail and how it became a movement.
🌄 The biggest challenges women face when getting into trail running.
🤝 Why community is the key to making trail running more accessible.
💪 How trail running builds confidence, resilience, and empowerment.
📢 The future of Chicks Who Trail and how you can be part of it.

This episode is a celebration of strength, connection, and the women who are redefining what it means to be a trail runner. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned runner, Bryony’s story will leave you feeling inspired to find your own trail crew.

🔊 Tune in and discover why Chicks Who Trail is more than just running—it’s a movement.

What if I told you that a small group of friends, a WhatsApp chat, and a love for the mountains could spark a trail running revolution?

In this episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz dives into the story of how trail running communities in the Deep South of Cape Town were formed—without plans, rules, or expectations. What started as casual meetups evolved into thriving, tight-knit groups that have redefined what it means to run together.

Dean sits down with Noah and Leanne from Muizenberg Trail Dawns and Ty from KomRun to explore the magic of spontaneous trail running clubs, the unspoken rules of mountain culture, and the camaraderie that keeps people coming back. From hilarious misadventures to personal breakthroughs, this conversation captures the heart of what makes trail running in the Deep South so special.

🔑 What to Expect in This Episode:

🏃‍♂️ The accidental origins of trail running groups in the Deep South.
📱 How a WhatsApp chat turned into a movement.
🏔️ The unique mountain culture that shapes these running communities.
🤣 Tales of getting lost, mistaken distances, and unforgettable moments.
🤝 Why running together is about more than just the trails—it’s about connection.

This episode is a celebration of running, friendship, and the power of community. Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner or just curious about the movement, you’ll leave inspired to find your own trail family.

🔊 Tune in and discover why the best trail running stories start with a simple invite: ‘Come run with us.’

What if I told you that building a personal brand, embracing creativity, and conquering challenges could lead to a life of adventure and inspiration?

In this engaging episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz chats with Kieran, a trail runner and storyteller who left behind a data-driven career to pursue his passion for the outdoors. Kieran’s journey is a testament to innovation, perseverance, and the power of starting small to achieve big dreams.

Dean and Kieran explore how he turned a love for trail running into a creative outlet, the lessons learned from injury setbacks, and the joy of discovering the trails less traveled. From his chaotic first race to his mission to inspire others, Kieran’s story is both relatable and empowering.

🔑 What to Expect in This Episode:
🌟 How Kieran transitioned from data science to storytelling and trail running.
🛠️ The art of starting simple and building a meaningful creative journey.
🏔️ Insights into mental and physical challenges on the trails—and how to overcome them.
📹 The magic of blending outdoor adventures with content creation.
💡 Why questioning the status quo is key to unlocking your potential.

This episode is a celebration of curiosity, growth, and the trails that shape us. Whether you’re chasing trails or chasing dreams, Kieran’s story will inspire you to take that first step.

🔊 Tune in and discover how the outdoors can ignite creativity, resilience, and a passion for life.

What if I told you that the journey of a trail runner can transform from focused ambition to a celebration of community, gratitude, and self-discovery?

In this engaging episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz welcomes Chantel Nienaber, a seasoned trail runner with over 12 years of experience and countless races under her belt. Chantel's story is one of evolution—from a competitive, podium-focused athlete to a runner who embraces the joy of the journey, the beauty of nature, and the bonds of community.

Dean and Chantel dive deep into her fascinating trail running career, from her iconic hot pants and their unexpected role in building connections, to her lessons on injury recovery, philanthropy, and the importance of listening to her body. Chantel’s approach to running is more than a sport; it’s a way of life shaped by resilience, humor, and a passion for making a difference.

🔑 What to Expect in This Episode: 🎽 The story behind Chantel’s signature hot pants and how they’ve become a symbol of connection.
⛰️ Her journey of shifting focus from racing for the podium to running for the love of the trails.
💡 Lessons learned from injuries and why listening to your body is non-negotiable.
🌍 Using her running to raise funds for meaningful causes and give back to the community.
🏃‍♀️ The importance of community in trail running and how it fosters growth and belonging.

This episode is a celebration of running, resilience, and the spirit of giving back. Chantel’s story will inspire you to see trail running—and life—with fresh eyes, whether you're chasing personal bests or simply finding joy in the journey.

🔊 Tune in and join us as we uncover the many ways the trails can teach us about gratitude, connection, and the beauty of letting go.

What if I told you the journey of a trail runner is filled with unexpected twists, personal growth, and the thrill of competition?

In this inspiring episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz sits down with Rebecca Kohne, a rising star in the trail running community, to uncover her remarkable story. From battling a career-threatening injury to embracing the unique challenges of trail running, Rebecca’s journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and perseverance.

Dean and Rebecca explore her transformation from a determined teenager to an elite athlete, the pressures of racing on her home turf, and how she learned to love the suffering that comes with the sport. They discuss the lessons found in setbacks, the value of proper training and nutrition, and the mental strength it takes to thrive in trail running.

🔑 What to Expect in This Episode:
🏃‍♀️ Rebecca’s path from injury recovery to becoming a competitive trail runner.
🧠 Insights into resilience and how to channel setbacks into comebacks.
🌱 Nutrition, recovery, and the critical lessons she’s learned about listening to her body.
🌍 The highs and lows of racing at home and abroad, and how each experience fuels her growth.
💪 Why embracing challenges is at the heart of trail running—and life.

This episode celebrates Rebecca’s ability to rise above doubt, pursue her dreams, and inspire others along the way. Whether you’re a trail enthusiast or chasing your own goals, her story will leave you ready to tackle whatever lies ahead.

🔊 Tune in and discover how the trails can teach us about resilience, growth, and the pursuit of greatness.