Ultra Uncovered

Ultra Uncovered

"Welcome to Ultra Uncovered, the podcast where we explore the untamed world of ultra running. Together, we're peeling back the layers of iconic races, challenging terrains, and the incredible stories that fuel the passion for the sport. Get ready to uncover the raw essence of ultra running with us.

  1. 21 APR

    Open Fuel Uncovered: What We Carry Matters: Rethinking Fuel in Endurance Sports

    In this episode of Ultra Uncovered, Corinne Shalvoy and Russell Ditsworth sit down with Zach Hauer, co-founder of Open Fuel North America, to uncover the origin story, philosophy, and future of one of trail running’s most intriguing emerging nutrition brands. Zach shares how a chance discovery at a bakery in Cape Town during a trip for Ultra Trail Cape Town sparked his connection to Open Fuel. What began as curiosity quickly turned into a partnership with founder Andrew, leading Zach to leave his day job and fully commit to building the brand alongside his own pursuits as a competitive ultrarunner. The conversation dives into what sets Open Fuel apart in a crowded sports nutrition market, including a focus on sustainability, reduced waste, and thoughtful formulation. From their innovative funnel scoop to their DIY gel mix, the brand is challenging conventional norms around fueling while prioritizing both performance and environmental impact. Zach also breaks down the science and intention behind their products, including carb-to-sodium ratios, ingredient sourcing, and gut-friendly formulation, while highlighting the importance of balancing performance needs with responsible business practices. Beyond the product, the episode explores broader themes in trail running, including the rise of professionalism in the sport, the tension between growth and consumerism, and the power of community-driven brands. Zach shares his perspective as both an athlete and founder, including his recent success at Big Alta 100K and upcoming goals at Cocodona 250. The episode wraps with insights into Open Fuel’s future, including expansion into retail, new product development, athlete team growth, and a long-term vision of eliminating plastic packaging entirely. A thoughtful, candid conversation about building a brand with purpose in a rapidly evolving sport. Check out Open Fuel & let them know you heard about it here!

    57 min
  2. 13 APR

    Uncovered: Runher Magazine and The Future of Women's Running Media

    In this episode of Ultra Uncovered, hosts Corinne Shalvoy and Russell Ditsworth talk with Ashley Mateo, Editor-in-Chief of Runher Magazine, to explore the origin, mission, and impact of one of the newest and most compelling voices in running media. Ashley shares her unconventional journey into the sport, from a lifelong gymnast to a dedicated marathoner, and how her career in traditional media ultimately led her to identify a major gap. There was a lack of meaningful, in-depth storytelling centered on women in running. What began as frustration with SEO-driven content and limited editorial space for nuanced stories evolved into a bold idea. Create a print magazine dedicated to women’s running. Through a successful Kickstarter campaign that quickly exceeded expectations, Runher Magazine proved there was a strong appetite for long-form, thoughtful, and inclusive storytelling in the sport. We discuss: Why print still matters in a digital-first world and how slowing down enhances the reader experienceThe importance of diverse voices and contributors, from journalists to subject-matter experts outside traditional running mediaA reimagined approach to advertising as storytelling, highlighting the real work brands are doing to support women athletesThe editorial commitment to inclusive representation, including trans and non-binary runners, and why those stories matter now more than everThe behind-the-scenes realities of building a magazine, from pitching and timelines to sourcing photography and managing freelancersAshley also reflects on broader trends shaping the sport, including the surge in women’s participation, the growing visibility of elite female athletes, and the evolving conversation around race formats, accessibility, and climate challenges in marathoning. At its core, Runher Magazine is more than a publication. It is a platform built on the belief that women’s stories in running deserve depth, permanence, and visibility beyond fleeting headlines. And you know we love celebrating women here on Ultra Uncovered. Subscribe to Runher Magazine or consider gifting it to a friend! Follow Ultra Uncovered on YouTube and and leave us a comment

    56 min

About

"Welcome to Ultra Uncovered, the podcast where we explore the untamed world of ultra running. Together, we're peeling back the layers of iconic races, challenging terrains, and the incredible stories that fuel the passion for the sport. Get ready to uncover the raw essence of ultra running with us.

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