Singletrack With Mathias Eichler

Alex Bond returns to the show to share his experience with orienteering races, how it helps him on big mountain adventures and why he won't run the Barkley Marathons. We talk about the romance and despair of circumnavigating volcanoes in the Cascades and what's on the adventure docket for the remainder of the summer before the smoke rolls in, or are we already too late for that? Links: Alex on Strava Alex on Instagram Cascada Orienteering Club Seattle Running Club Fastest Known Time Athletic Brewing Use discount code: ABOND20 La Sportiva Karacal La Sportiva Cyklon

Lots is going on this week: An update on our hosting server changes, summer break announcements and talks about challenges in gateway communities. Orientation runs for LBA are happening and mountains are climbed. We're continuing our training for summer races and UTMR announces a big change to the route which will have a bigger effect on Mathias' summer plans. But, we're excited. Let's get after it. Links: Nathan Sports - Pinnacle 12L Hydration Race Vest Rumpl - NanoLoft® Puffy Blanket - Teton Dreams

(Sorry, had some issues with the audio file... you know.. that new podcasting server and stuff... anyway, this episode should be 1:27 long. If your podcast player shows only a 59min show, please re-download the file.) This week's episode takes us from the inevitable weather talk to the impact heat waves have on our training plans. There are lots of thoughts on Western States, especially in comparison to UTMB, because of course. We're NOT talking about the abysmal performance by the German National Soccer team but wonder what our favorite race distances are and for what race we'd be willing to travel for? Like for LBA, come travel to Olympia and race with us! Links: Little Backyard Adventure MyGuide

It's good to be a fan right now. RedBull Alps is happening, Euro 2020, Lavaredo just kicked off and it's Western States weekend. So much going on. Perfect time to flee the heat and follow along some incredible events online. Doug and Mathias als talk about their shenanigans of the last week which included night running, and setting up an aid station in the middle of Capitol Forest at 2am, hosting the first orientation run for the upcoming Little Backyard Adventure race and so so so much more. Important housekeeping note: Even though the intro message says we're on a new podcast hosting platform, we are in fact not yet. Stay tuned for more backend work, that hopefully doesn't impact you at all. Thanks for listening and following us wherever we may go!

It's getting hot in the west. Temperatures are rising, visitors are flocking to our public lands and masks are being dropped. Oh, and speaking of hot, Mathias ran a race last weekend and actually had a good time. Lumberjack 100 was happening in Port Gamble, Washington and he actually had fun. So we talk about that, like we do. We also announce some podcast changes. Your feed might see some disruptions over the coming days. Stay tuned! Links at: http://outdoor-society.com

This week, we talk He-Man and nostalgia reboots before diving into Doug's latest trail encounter with a bear and cubs. Mathias has a 100k over the weekend in the PNW, which is a great systems check before the Ultra Tour Monte Rosa race later in the summer. After the appetizer conversation, the problem of trail running's struggles to be inclusive in the United States. How can the sport grow with people who don't necessarily want to share the trails? How does the Ironman-UTMB relationship impact the sport today? How will races take place on already stressed public lands? How does the permitting system impact trail running's growth as a sport? Do we come up with any solid answers? Give it a listen and let us know what you think! Links to all gear at: http://outdoor-society.com

It is hot and we are watching the snow melt, a little too fast. Mathias shares why his "bro crew" didn't go up Mount St. Helens during nasty weather, and listens as Doug rants about China's decision to ban all ultramarathons and "off road running races." The guys then get back to talking about things they really know- their own running. Mathias is running and organizing a race, while Doug is debating whether he will race again after he completes his Rut madness. Get vaccinated, smile at people on walks and runs, and remember to bring your reusable bags to the grocery store. This is Singletrack. Links at outdoor-society.com

Alex Bond, the regional editor of the popular website Fastest Known Time joins us on Singletrack to discuss the excitement and challenges and of chasing and FKT route. We dive into the technicalities of setting up a new route and what it takes to complete and compete on existing routes. We also remind folks about the dangers of running in the mountains and make plans for the summer. Will we see some competition on the Cushman Six? More at: http://outdoor-society.com More at: http://outdoor-society.com

This is a doubleheader, which doesn't exist in football, I mean soccer. We're finishing up season 1 of Ted Lasso and enjoying the rollercoaster of hope, defeat and the promise of at least two more seasons of kindness, locker room talk and loud but adorable English cursing. Bollocks, can't wait for the new season to hit Apple TV+. More Lasso at http://outdoor-society.com

Another German joins the show and Doug is back in the saddle. Florian Herrmann from Munich, Bavaria and now living in Lander, Wyoming shares the mission of his company Herrmann Global. How do we redefine travel in the 21st century and rediscover the hidden places after a year stuck home. Links to everything and all the gear at: https://outdoor-society.com

Maggie Guterl and Staci Revel join Mathias on this week's special episode. Both ran the inaugural Cocodona 250 down in Arizona, the newest, most badass race in North America. Sleepless nights, brutal heat, endless rocky trails, and the obligatory wildlife sighting all create life-altering memories and give reasons of why we do what we do. And yes, we talk about feet again. Links, and more at http://outdoor-society.com

The 'Diamond Dogs' redefine locker room talk. Relationships are fixed. Then darts are being played, in a pub, in England. So cliche, and so wonderful. This game creates the biggest win for Ted, but leaves us with a cliffhanger reminding us that Becca has had other plans with the team. More Ted Lasso here: http://outdoor-society.com

Big news is announced in this episode. Mathias is heading to Europe soon, while UTMB is partnering with Ironman. Doug summits a mountain and encounters snow. After a nearly full episode of running talk, your intrepid hosts announce a slight shift of gears for the podcast. Will anyone notice? Only time will tell! Gear reviewed by Nathan Sports and Sea to Summit - check it out at http://outdoor-society.com

There's lot of relationshipping going on in this episode. Anger can win games and karaoke brings the team together. Also road trips make people find themselves in each others hotel rooms. We're glad only the locker room get demolished in episode 7 of Ted Lasso. More Lasso and more Scott and Eichler at http://outdoor-society.com

How does one launch an outdoor brand in the United States? Especially one that's already forty years old? Jack Wolfskin is one of Europe's largest and most loved brands and is finally coming to America. Mathias grew up with the brand and the team can't contain their excitement to chat with Roberto Gutiérrez, Director of Brand Marketing – Jack Wolfskin North America. More info at: http://outdoor-society.com

Do people in Britain know about the Red Sox? How do you write jokes for a global audience? What 'sport curses' do we know from other cultures? Also: Tart is gone, and the curse is lifted, but not because of his departure. Drink up! More Lasso here: http://outdoor-society.com

Weather talk is interrupted by geography talk, so you know it must be important. This week, Doug talks about his latest sprained ankle and how it happened. Mathis is healing up and looking ahead to soothing his feet and possibly his ego. We then take a deep dive into how our focus changes when we are doing task oriented activities on the trail versus our focus while only running. Fill out those post-race surveys, watch for ticks and be mindful of the snow still in the mountains. Links and more here: http://outdoor-society.com

Get your vaccines, people! Doug got his first Covid-19 shot already, Mathias has his scheduled, but that isn't the point of this episode. Today, we hear about Mathias' attempt to run 100 miles at Zion 100 down in Utah. Mesas were climbed, streams were crossed, deserts were cursed at. Memories were made and blisters did me in. If you haven't listened to one of our post-race podcasts before, start here! Visit http://outdoor-society.com for pre race coverage and bread recipes.

Mathias is, or should be, packing for his race this weekend. How will the 100 miler go? Will he bring the right gear, snacks and remember to grab masks for the road trip? Only time will tell. After working through this round of pre-race jitters, Doug chats about last weekend, where he finished the easily digestible portions part of a much larger project. This week's episode is strangely almost all about running. I know. We are as shocked as you. Links to everything and live-tracking at http://outdoor-society.com.

Richmond wins their first game. That is big for the team and for Coach Lasso. But, what's bigger is the relationships and decisions that are happening off the pitch, as it is often in life. Jamie Tart, doo doo doo doo... More Ted Lasso here: http://outdoor-society.com

Mathias has a call with the German consulate, Doug runs a random half and both guys are getting ready to battle allergies. After a masterful transition by Doug, we finally talk about the upcoming 100 miler that Mathias will run. Or will he walk it? Either way, a pair of shoes has been settled on and he so ready to rock. Don't worry, we also have a weather report and some awesome some trail running gear to review. Links to gear at: http://outdoor-society.com

This episode of Ted Lasso poses the serious question of what to wear to an elevated function, and what to wear on the soccer pitch or as fans in the stands, if we're ever get to do this again. The show also gives us a great examples of how to be a better man. Ted to Rebecca: "You may be thinking you're the only one who can see who he really is, but you're not." Catch up with reviews of previous shows at http://outdoor-society.com

We are all like that boat stuck in Suez Canal. Doug loves his new road shoes while Mathias feels let down by La Sportiva's Jackal. With just a few weeks to go, will he find the right pair of shoes for his Utah 100 miler. Hey hey hey, visit: http://outdoor-society.com and check out the new look of our website.

This episode is all about tabloids, spicy food, school visits, and the marvelous Trent Crimm from the Independent. We also see Ted slowly taking control of the locker room, that damned male locker room. I'm hungry for Indian food now. Find all episode reviews at outdoor-society.com

Eurovision and Barkley talk kick off this week's conversation. Is the Barkley hype waning or is Doug just a pessimist who doesn't believe in fun? Red Bull X-Alps is starting and both Mathias and Doug daydream about mountain running and learning to paraglide to participate in this unique Alps adventure. Nathan now has clothes, Mathias has shoes and Doug has bison and bighorn sheep on a run. Links: http://outdoor-society.com

The second episode of Ted Lasso - Season 1 is all about firsts. The first British breakfast, the first practice session with the team, the first real Premier League game and the first loss for Ted as coach of AFC Richmond. But the real question is: "Are you a panda or a lion?" Missed our review of episode 1? Check outdoor-society.com and stay tuned for more great reviews of the best show on television for 2020.

Happy(?) 1st year of Covidiversary, everyone! After talking about the past year, we take a quick dip into everyone's favorite recurring segment: "weather talk!" Mathias dives into the running part of the show by giving an update about running 100 miles last week and how his training is going. Doug talks about his Livingston-Bozeman Route and update before Mathias makes an announcement Oh, Strava has an update, giving users their previous month in review. Check it out. More at: http://outdoor-society.com

Yes, we're doing it and you are welcome. Ted Lasso, the greatest show on television deserves to be reviewed, talked about and praised by two average trail runners, because that fits our show format perfectly. We're diving into episode one and will feature a episode each week, or so we hope. Follow along and watch Ted Lasso on Apple TV+ and, if you're a superfan, reach out and we'll bring you on the show. Wanker!

Remember the movie Innerspace from 1987? No? Well, this week we quickly chat about the new Kilian documentary Inside Kilian on Amazon Prime before we dive into training and weekly goals. We debate bringing a change of socks for ultras and then dive into shoe talk. 100 miles is a long way to go, but Mathias is getting ready as we discuss the physical and mental challenges he will be facing in Utah this April. Will he end the race with jet black hair, bangs across his forehead and dressed in full on goth fashion? Only time will tell! Links: https://outdoor-society.com

Remember 10 hour long Youtube videos? Doug watched most of the replay of the Black Canyon 100k and shared his thoughts. We then dive into the anxiousness for trail adventures that spring brings. Mathias then talks about how incredible it is in Europe after both hosts watched a video from the Alps. Join us on Clubhouse, maybe? Links: http://outdoor-society.com

What is the future of trail running? How long will we mourn for Daft Punk? After a few introductory comments, including yet another check in on Mathias' chafed thighs, we dive into the newest Wonderland Trail video, highlighting Kaytlyn Gerbin's FKT, presented by The North Face. Check it out and be inspired to explore America's most-visible National Park. When in doubt, Donald Duck it. Links: http://outdoor-society.com

When did you last hear a David Hasselhoff song on the radio? After reminiscing on the golden age of radio, the guys dive in deep into a real conversation. So many gear companies and nutrition companies claim superiority over everyone else, but how does one wade through the boasting? We try to come up with an answer. More at https://outdoor-society.com

We are debating taking a trip to Mexico with Ted Cruz, but Doug's eyes may still be frozen shut. Mathias is recovering slowly. Broken Arrow is moved from June to October and we wonder what races will look like this year. To end, we talk about cross training on a stationary bike and wonder if Doug will feel the benefits after a winter's worth of riding. Hey, Scott, stay for the long outro music! More at: http://outdoor-society.com

Mathias takes an avalanche course for trail runners while Doug longs to run with migrating animals. K2 is talked about, and the guys dive into a discussion about watching disasters in real time. Links: https://outdoor-society.com

Winter weather is impacting training plans, but that is ok. Mathias has a good blanket to recommend. Tights get destroyed at Kaiser, but the power of walking during runs persists. Save local gear shops, they are the soul of the outdoor community, sometimes. Links at https://outdoor-society.com

It's time for some new gear for 2021. We talk masks, tights, sun shades, hydration packs and of course, socks! Which gear do we love? What are the problems with it? Who makes the most inappropriate joke? Listen and maybe learn! Links to all the products review can be found at: http://outdoor-society.com

When races are less of a priority, how do we get ready for a new race? Mathias signs up for a 100 miler, and we discuss the mental and physical challenges of preparing. Doug then brings up a story about an adventure some he knows is undertaking, which nobody will ever hear about. Is an experience with documentation something you would do? Oh, and Ultrasignup was sold. Links: http://outdoor-society.com Zion 100: https://vacationraces.com/ultras/zion UltraSignUp sold: https://ultrarunning.com/featured/ultrasignup-sold-to-tennessee-firm/

After lobbying for Toto to be on the podcast, we dive into whether or not rock climbers compete about elevation gain on climbs. Doug may sign up for a race and Mathias is hoping for a European adventure race. We then discuss the short trail running film, Snow Going on the PCT. We end on shoe talk, which makes sense since this is a trail running podcast. Links to all stories mentioned available at outdoor-society.com

Mathias talks about running half marathons and getting caught in hail on Kaiser. We then discuss snowy days, avalanches and the mental skills we gain from scaling up for races and long runs. This episode even has a serious discussion, so give it a listen. Bonus points for someone who comes up with a sea shanty about the podcast. Links at outdoor-society.com

It has been awhile, but baking is back on the show. Doug loses a cake bet and makes a Raspberry Zinger, while Mathias made sausage rolls. This is why we run so much. The talk returns to running with a serious and needed talk about wearing face masks on runs and races. Find more Singletrack at outdoor-society.com

We have returned to road running, for a bit. Both Doug and Mathias ran a half marathon, Doug has a new project while Mathias is once again a Tailwind Ambassador. Strava is mentioned, as always, as is pasta makers. Would you really expect anything different? Find more shows at outdoor-society.com

Back on track, until the end, hazards with shoes and running holes in shorts are discussed in great length, unlike Mathias and Doug's shorts. A phone to the universe was found in Olympia's Priest Point Park, but is it art or vandalism? Maybe Toto has a song about that too? All of this and more, on everyone's beloved trail running podcast.

This week, we try to dive into deeper things than the political chaos engulfing the nation. How'd we do? We discuss trail running Tiktok, the new logo for ATRA, as well as discuss what they could do to embrace the future of the sport. Doug may be overly critical, while Mathias keeps the talk positive, discussing logos and recommends an amazing trail running film and asks for podcast recommendations.

Doug rolls over his 2020 race entries to this year and is amped up about running three back to back races at the Rut this coming summer. It still feels a million miles away and there are equal number of things to think about, COVID-19 protocols at public gatherings being just one of them, how to make Spätzle being the other.

Politics aside the new year begins with a renewed focus on nutrition and proper preparation before our runs. Oh, and of course we chat about Strava again. Just like a real running podcast.

2020 was a dumpster fire, but there were moments of joy, of happiness and of adventures. In this episode Doug and Mathias share their favorite moments on trails in this past year and are cautiously optimistic for the new one. Here's to more adventures in 2021!

It's the most fabulous holiday tradition at the Singletrack World Headquarters: The annual movie review. Doug and Mathias take a deep dive at Fine Lines. A climbing documentary that explores that very fine line between risk and madness, reward and well, death. Grab a beverage, pull up a chair and tune in. Find the link to Fine Lines on outdoor-society.com

Say it with us: "Cheese Steak, Cheese Cake, Cheapskate!" Doug kicks things off with yet another awkward topic. leading to a quick chat about a trail run following the route of the Donner Party. Mathias brings us back on track, announcing a change in recording schedule for the next few week before we discuss running in air pods. There is holiday cooking talk, baking chat and the usual non-running topics you know and love. Stay for the end and hear what movie we will be watching and reviewing for our annual Holiday tradition!

WARNING: Graphic Content to start the episode. This week, we start with breaking news. Doug hits his first deer and has a truly Montana moment, leaving us to chat about the importance of always being prepared and carrying extra gear in your car. The masters of segues then chat about Strava numbers for and the year in review, before celebrating our year outdoors, and hopefully inspiring you to do the same. Grab your calendars, review and share this show and watch out for deer!

Only one more week of dwindling daylight hours. In what may be the tightest episode in Singletrack history, layering fails, winter gear, mountain travels and apprehensions are all discussed in detail. Don't worry though, tangents and weird comments seep through to give you everything you love about Mathias and Doug. We even mention the McRib. Again. Will the McRib talk and 2020 ever end? Only time will tell.