Free Outside

Jeff Garmire
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  • RUNNING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to "Free Outside," the ultimate podcast for outdoor enthusiasts! Join me, Jeff Garmire, as I blur the lines between trail running, Fastest Known Times (FKTs), thru-hiking, backpacking, and all endurance. With 20 FKTs under my belt, a book, a movie, and plenty of unconventional experiences, I'm here to share my adventures and insights. Expect engaging interviews and fun interactions with guests who excel in various ways. Whether we're discussing the art of slowly running through forests, the thrill of a challenging hike, or simply an appreciator of beauty and comedy, here we are.

  1. 7 HR AGO

    Barkley Marathons Before They Were Famous: With the First Finisher, Frozen Ed Furtaw

    In 1988, before the 100-mile version existed, before the conch shell start became legend, before the documentaries and global fame, one man proved the Barkley Marathons could be finished. Frozen Ed was the first person to ever finish the Barkley. Not the 100-miler. The original three-loop race that no one thought was possible. In this episode we talk about: – What Barkley was really like in the 80s – The story of Tom Possert and the missed summit – How the book pages became part of the race – When the 100-mile version was born – The Soviet invasion year – The prison apprehension story – How the course has evolved and gotten harder – Why Laz says he’s not trying to make it the toughest race in the world – The real energy cost of Barkley – And why endurance athletes need to protect their hearts This is a history lesson, a philosophy lesson, and a reminder that Barkley has always lived at the limit of what’s possible. If you love the mystique of Barkley, this is required listening. Support our Sponsors: Sawyer: https://sawyerdirect.net/ Janji (code: Freeoutside): https://snp.link/a0bfb726 CS Coffee: CSinstant.coffee Garage Grown Gear: https://snp.link/db1ba8ab Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside 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 #Trailrunning #Runningnews #Outdoors #Outdooradventure

    1h 35m

  2. 1 DAY AGO

    Barkley Marathons 2026: The race explained, and I’m Running It

    The Barkley Marathons is designed to sit right on the edge of possible. Sixty hours. Five loops. Nearly all off trail. No GPS. No course markings. Books hidden in the woods. A cigarette lights the start. In 2021, I stepped onto the course and heard Taps play when my race ended. In 2026, I’m lining up again. In this episode, I break down what Barkley actually is, how it started under at Brushy Mountain, why it keeps getting harder, and what makes it different from every other 100 miler on the planet. We talk navigation, the fun run, the infamous virgin sacrifice, the conch shell, the secretive entry process, and why even legends like John Kelly can get stopped at three loops. But more than that, this is about why anyone would go back. Barkley is not about speed. It is not about splits. It is about finding your limit in a world where almost nothing forces you to. And in 2026, I’m going to try again. Chapters 00:00 The Origins of the Barkley Marathons 02:51 The Challenge and Difficulty of the Race 05:47 The Unique Entry Process and Race Structure 08:50 Navigating the Course: Skills and Strategies 12:09 Mental Toughness and the Experience of Running 15:04 The Community and Culture of the Barkley Marathons 18:11 Inspiration and the Future of the Barkley Marathons Support our Sponsors: Sawyer: https://sawyerdirect.net/ Janji (code: Freeoutside): https://snp.link/a0bfb726 CS Coffee: CSinstant.coffee Garage Grown Gear: https://snp.link/db1ba8ab Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside 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 #Trailrunning #Runningnews #Outdoors #Outdooradventure

    26 min

  3. 2 DAYS AGO

    From Turkey Trot to Black Canyon: The Madison Liechty Story

    Madison Liechty joins the Free Outside Podcast and we keep the promise of no hard questions for about five seconds. We talk about her very normal Montana childhood (no horses to school, sorry), how one turkey trot convinced her friend Makena Morley to start coaching her toward big marathon goals, and why the trail world, where you can eat bacon mid-race, ended up being a better fit. Follow Madison on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madison_liechty Then it gets unexpectedly real. Madison explains living her whole life unable to burp, how that made long trail races brutal from a fueling standpoint, and how getting treated for R-CPD flipped everything. Suddenly, she can actually eat deep into efforts, trail running gets fun, and she wins her first 100 miler. Now she’s heading into Black Canyon with her dad pacing the last miles, plus bigger dreams on the horizon like Hardrock and UTMB. We also get into Bozeman training culture, 5 a.m. long runs, pacing her dad at a stack of hundred milers, a grizzly encounter in the Beartooths, and her long-term vision: keep building as a trail runner, and someday open the post-adventure bakery truck Bozeman needs. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 06:06 Early Running Journey 11:14 Transition to Trail Running 16:05 Overcoming Challenges in Trail Running 21:03 The Impact of Medical Issues on Performance 26:00 Baking Dreams and Future Aspirations 30:50 The Bakery Dream 32:00 Afternoon Running Revelation 33:11 Pacing and Family Bonds 36:21 Black Canyon Race Reflections 41:32 Future Goals in Trail Running 48:19 Balancing Engineering and Running 50:06 Wildlife Encounters in the Wild West 52:55 Training with Fast Friends Support our Sponsors: Sawyer: https://sawyerdirect.net/ Janji (code: Freeoutside): https://snp.link/a0bfb726 CS Coffee: CSinstant.coffee Garage Grown Gear: https://snp.link/db1ba8ab Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside 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 #Trailrunning #Runningnews #Outdoors #Outdooradventure

    59 min

  4. 8 FEB

    Sub-4 Miler to Black Canyon 100K: The Zach Perrin Story

    Zach Perrin has run 3:59 for the mile, then promptly got humbled by his first trail race in road shoes and swore he would never do it again. Now he is all-in on ultras, dialing sweat rate and sodium, and lining up at Black Canyon with a golden ticket on the mind. We talk sub-4 race strategy, the “panic point” in the mile, ego-check moments on the trails, and what it actually takes to run well for seven to eight hours. Follow Zach online: https://www.instagram.com/zach_perrin/ Chapters 02:00 What a Sub-4 Mile Actually Feels Like 05:00 The Mile’s Panic Point vs Ultra Pain 08:00 From Montana to CU and Early Running Roots 12:00 Leaving Track and Finding the Trails 16:00 Getting Humbled in His First Trail Race 20:00 Letting Go of Pace Ego and Learning Effort 26:00 Fueling, Sweat Rate, and Fixing 100K Mistakes 33:00 Adam Peterman, CU, and Training With the Best 40:00 Black Canyon 100K Strategy and Golden Ticket Goals 52:00 Staying Calm, Mental Approach, and What’s Next Support our Sponsors: Sawyer: https://sawyerdirect.net/ Janji (code: Freeoutside): https://snp.link/a0bfb726 CS Coffee: CSinstant.coffee Garage Grown Gear: https://snp.link/db1ba8ab Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside 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 #Trailrunning #Runningnews #Outdoors #Outdooradventure

    59 min

  5. 6 FEB

    White Mountains Stories and a Retreat Invite

    The White Mountains have a special talent for making strong hikers question their life choices, and their mileage math. In this episode, I’m joined by Eli Burakian and Justin Chapman, the brains behind Northeast Trail Adventures, to break down what makes the Northeast so rugged, so beloved, and so different from anywhere else. Sign up for the retreat: https://northeasttrailadventures.com/ We dig into Moosilauke as the first true alpine-style summit for northbound AT hikers, the old-school trail design philosophy (straight up, minimal mercy), and the culture shift where vert matters more than pace. Then we get into the wild story of the Mount Ascutney Vertical Backyard, a last-person-standing race that went a jaw-dropping 90 hours, and somehow turned race directing into an ultra of its own. After that, we talk about something more important than suffering, community. I’m officially joining Northeast Trail Adventures as a leader for their White Mountains running and hiking retreat (June 5 weekend at Hub North), a low-pressure, all-abilities weekend built around moving efficiently in the mountains, learning from experienced leaders, and hanging out like normal humans at night with meals, stories, and whatever game ends friendships. If you want an entry point to the Whites that’s fun, supportive, and not gatekeep-y, this is it. Retreat spots are limited, and Free Outside listeners can use FREE OUTSIDE for $100 off. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Northeast Hiking Experience 06:41 Personal Connections to the White Mountains 11:48 Launching Northeast Trail Adventures 21:45 The Unique Vertical Backyard Race 32:26 Reflections on the Race and Future Plans 34:03 Community Building in the Whites 39:18 Retreat Structure and Activities 55:43 Inspiring Stories and Personal Experiences 01:04:35 Future Events and Opportunities Find Northeasttrailadventures.com on social media https://www.instagram.com/northeasttrailadventures Support our Sponsors: Sawyer: https://sawyerdirect.net/ Janji (code: Freeoutside): https://snp.link/a0bfb726 CS Coffee: CSinstant.coffee Garage Grown Gear: https://snp.link/db1ba8ab Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside 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 #Trailrunning #Runningnews #Outdoors #Outdooradventure

    1h 14m

  6. 2 FEB

    Black Canyon 100k Preview: Burritos, Banked Tracks, and Golden Tickets

    Allison Mercer drops a one-month-in “ins and outs of 2026” list that should be printed and taped to every smartphone: ranting to your phone is out, solutions and actual dialogue are in. From the chaos of Burrito League to the hype of the Millrose Games, we bounce between weather-whiplash field reporting, race-culture grievances (selfie sticks, pacers, entitlement), and a very biased Black Canyon 100K preview with picks, storylines, and the important reminder that community is built by showing up, not shouting into the void. Chapters 00:00 2026: A Year of Change and Observations 02:43 Ranting vs. Solutions: A New Approach 05:32 Weather Woes: A Running Perspective 07:23 Running Czar: Changes in the Race World 10:18 Behind the Scenes: Understanding Race Logistics 11:49 Personal Achievements: Racing Stories and Reflections 15:12 Bucket List Dreams: Olympic Aspirations 17:55 Community Engagement: The Burrito League Experience 21:44 Milrose Games: Indoor Track Insights 32:54 Racing Dynamics and Athlete Strategies 38:54 Emerging Talents and Competitive Landscape 43:52 Youth in Sports: Pressure and Performance 45:38 The Impact of Betting on Professional Sports 49:54 Trail Running: Anticipation for Black Canyon 58:00 Golden Ticket Races: Opportunities and Challenges 01:03:48 Women's Race Preview: Anticipation and Insights 01:06:31 Key Athletes to Watch: Molly Seidel and Tara Dower 01:09:37 Emerging Talents: Jade and Shai's Breakout Potential 01:14:11 Race Strategies and Turnarounds: Caitriona Jennings and Others 01:18:54 Marathoners Transitioning to Ultra: Des Linden's Debut 01:23:42 Strava Insights: The New Age of Training Analysis 01:26:42 Final Thoughts: Predictions and Weekend Highlights Support our Sponsors: Sawyer: https://sawyerdirect.net/ Janji (code: Freeoutside): https://snp.link/a0bfb726 CS Coffee: CSinstant.coffee Garage Grown Gear: https://snp.link/db1ba8ab Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside 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 #Trailrunning #Runningnews #Outdoors #Outdooradventure

    1h 29m

  7. 30 JAN

    Ben Dhiman: From Sleeping by the River to UTMB

    Ben Dhiman has one of the best names in the sport, and he actually earned it. We talk nicknames, alter egos, and the wild cat energy he taps into when racing, then rewind to the thru hiking years that shaped his brain, his grit, and his need to keep pushing the edge. From the AT and CDT to the Hayduke and a full-on Himalayan mission in Nepal, Ben explains why big adventures can be both glorious and miserable, and why thru hiking can “ruin you” in the best and worst ways. Then we follow the pivot into trail running, pacing Hardrock almost by accident, showing up to races undertrained on hiking fitness and stubborn confidence, and eventually forcing the door down in Europe the old-school way, by racing hard and winning. We also get into family, balancing ambition with real life, his coaching philosophy, and why he treats winter as an off season where the work goes up and the pounding goes down. Chapters 00:00 The Origins of the 'Demon' Nickname 05:34 Mental Clarity Through Hiking 08:25 The Impact of Thru-Hiking on Personal Growth 11:38 Transitioning to Trail Running 14:37 The Journey to Becoming a Competitive Runner 17:34 Navigating the World of Sponsorships 20:25 Racing in Europe vs. America 23:23 The Challenge of Proving Oneself 26:16 The Evolution of Thru-Hiking Experiences 30:49 Navigating the Wilderness: From Maps to Experience 33:18 The Call of the Himalayas: Planning the Adventure 35:06 Challenges in the Himalayas: Red Tape and Realities 37:58 Surviving the Elements: A Tale of Perseverance 41:43 The Role of Guides: Navigating Culture and Communication 43:24 Resupply Strategies: Making the Most of Local Resources 45:29 Reflections on Thru-Hiking: Contentment and Progression 49:35 Shifting Focus: From Thru-Hiking to Ultra Running 56:22 The Addictive Nature of Adventure: Community vs. Solitude 56:53 The Community of Thru-Hiking 01:00:28 Mental States in Long-Distance Hiking 01:05:57 The Dynamics of Team vs. Solo Hiking 01:12:37 Coaching and Evolving as an Athlete 01:19:05 Skiing as a Complement to Running 01:20:56 The Journey of Thru-Hiking and Ultra Running 01:21:28 Living Abroad and Competitive Spirit in Sports Support our Sponsors: Sawyer: https://sawyerdirect.net/ Janji (code: Freeoutside): https://snp.link/a0bfb726 CS Coffee: CSinstant.coffee Garage Grown Gear: https://snp.link/db1ba8ab Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside 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 #Trailrunning #Runningnews #Outdoors #Outdooradventure

    1h 23m

  8. 28 JAN

    Consistency Beats Intensity: Action over Noise

    I’ve struggled to record this episode. Lately, it’s been harder to run, harder to feel motivated, and harder to know what to do in a world that feels increasingly loud, divided, and unjust. This episode is about words without action, the illusion of impact created by social media, and the lessons the trail has taught me about accountability, humility, and real work. Community isn’t built by the loudest voices. It’s built by the people who show up when no one is watching. If you’re angry, frustrated, or unsure where to put that energy, this is my attempt to talk through it. Chapters 00:00 The Challenge of Communication in a Noisy World 02:58 Words vs. Actions: The Need for Authenticity 06:06 The Importance of Community and Real Impact 08:56 Harnessing Emotions for Positive Change 11:51 The Role of Consistency in Achieving Goals 15:13 Navigating Authority and Accountability 17:43 The Slow Path to Progress and Real Change Support our Sponsors: Sawyer: https://sawyerdirect.net/ Janji (code: Freeoutside): https://snp.link/a0bfb726 CS Coffee: CSinstant.coffee Garage Grown Gear: https://snp.link/db1ba8ab Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside 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 #Trailrunning #Runningnews #Outdoors #Outdooradventure

    24 min
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About

Welcome to "Free Outside," the ultimate podcast for outdoor enthusiasts! Join me, Jeff Garmire, as I blur the lines between trail running, Fastest Known Times (FKTs), thru-hiking, backpacking, and all endurance. With 20 FKTs under my belt, a book, a movie, and plenty of unconventional experiences, I'm here to share my adventures and insights. Expect engaging interviews and fun interactions with guests who excel in various ways. Whether we're discussing the art of slowly running through forests, the thrill of a challenging hike, or simply an appreciator of beauty and comedy, here we are.

Information

  • Creator
    Jeff Garmire
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    191
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Jeff Garmire
  • Show Website
    Free Outside

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