The Longer Miles

Christopher Raup
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Mental Health

The Longer Miles is a Warrior Trail Foundation production designed to share the trail running experiences and insights from our community. The title alludes to the challenges we encounter on our journey, and the resilience we lean into, despite the difficulty. If ultra-running is "life-in-a-day" (or multiple days!), then there's much to be learned from how our hosts and guests approach their training, events, wins and losses. Our ultimate goal is that you learn something along the way, and if not, at least be entertained in the journey!

Episodes

  1. May 28

    Episode 10 - Maggy Smith's MDS Recap

    The conversation delves into the grueling nature of the Marathon des Sables, the recovery process, emotional experiences, and the day-to-day challenges faced during the race. It also explores the impact of the race on attitudes towards sand, the emotional and physical toll of the race, and the significance of conquering fears. The conversation covers a range of topics including the impact of the sandstorm, reflections on race repeats, the transformational experience of multi-day racing, intrigue and challenge of MDS, fundraising and scholarships, podcast milestones and reflections, personal transformation and self-expectations, endurance and resilience in ultra running, upcoming races and challenges, race preparation and strategy, and the power of coaching and support. The conversation delves into personal reflections, gratitude, and the transformative impact of endurance and resilience in the context of multi-day racing and ultra running. Takeaways Grueling nature of the Marathon des SablesRecovery from extreme physical strainReflections on the race experienceEmotional and physical impact of the raceDay-to-day experience of the raceConfronting fears and challenges Endurance and resilience are key components of the transformative experience in multi-day racing and ultra running.The support and encouragement from coaches, teammates, and the community play a significant role in the personal and athletic development of the participants. Chapters 00:00 The Marathon des Sables: A Grueling Challenge07:09 Emotional Experiences and Highlights16:40 Facing Fears and Conquering Challenges38:06 The Impact of the Sandstorm43:33 Intrigue and Challenge of MDS49:43 Podcast Milestone and Reflections55:20 Reflections on Endurance and Resilience01:02:22 Reflections on Upcoming Challenges01:08:30 Reflections on Ultra Running and Endurance01:14:25 Reflections on Coaching and Support

    1h 10m

  2. Apr 9

    Episode 9 - Cocodona 250 Planning

    The conversation covers the preparation, challenges, and strategies for the Cocodona 250 race, including fluid and gear management, course challenges, water management, training, race day considerations, altitude training, and sleep strategy. The speakers share insights and experiences related to these topics, providing valuable information for aspiring participants. The conversation delves into the strategic management of sleep during ultra-running events, the impact of heat training and adaptation, and the importance of embracing the ultra-running experience. It explores the balancing act of sleep and pace, the relationship between sleep strategy and heat, the effects of sleep deprivation on the body, and the significance of heat training and adaptation in preparation for ultra-running events. Takeaways Cocodona 250 race preparationFluid and gear managementSleep strategy Strategic sleep managementHeat training and adaptationEmbracing the ultra-running experience Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Race Preparation06:00 Course Challenges and Strategy13:10 Training and Gear Practice18:51 Race Day Considerations25:00 Altitude Training and Sleep Strategy31:57 Sleep Strategy and Race Experience38:10 Balancing Sleep and Pace49:05 Sleep Survey and Damage to the Body56:04 Heat Training and Adaptation

    58 min

  3. Mar 30

    Episode 8 - WTF Athlete Maggy Smith Prepares for Marathon Des Sables

    Maggie Smith, a Warrior Trail athlete, shares her journey and preparation for the Marathon des Sables in Morocco, a race she never thought she would do. Her training, challenges, and unique considerations as a woman in the desert are discussed. The conversation covers a range of topics including clothing, gear, food, and preparation for a desert race. It also delves into the challenges and strategies for dealing with the harsh desert environment. The conversation covers Maggy's experience with desert running, her upcoming races, and the challenges she faces. It also delves into the unique aspects of various races and the emotional journey of participating in such events. Takeaways Marathon des Sables (MDS) is a challenging race that requires extensive preparation and planning.The unique considerations and challenges faced by women in the desert during a stage race like MDS. Multi-use gear for the desert environmentStrategic food and gear choices for endurance races Desert running involves unique challenges and requires specific training.The emotional and mental aspects of participating in long-distance races are as important as the physical preparation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Maggie's Journey05:18 Preparation and Planning10:38 Understanding MDS16:11 Community and Connections22:27 Unique Considerations for Women28:19 Clothing and Gear Strategy for Endurance Races36:06 Dealing with the Harsh Desert Environment01:09:17 Final Words and Gratitude

    1h 8m

  4. Feb 12

    Episode 7 - Jordan Copenhafer's Tragedy to Triumph at the Dark Sky 220

    In this episode of the Longer Miles podcast, host Christopher Raup interviews Jordan Copenhafer, an accomplished trail runner who shares his journey into the world of endurance sports. They discuss Jordan's experiences with trail running, including his attempts at FKTs, the challenges faced during the Cocodona 250 race, and the impact of personal loss on his running journey. The conversation also delves into the unique experience of the Dark Sky 220 race, the importance of community support in trail running, and Jordan's training methods for unsupported adventures. Throughout the episode, Jordan emphasizes the mental aspects of endurance running and the fulfillment that comes from overcoming challenges in nature.

    50 min

  5. Jan 25

    Episode 6 - Andrea Moore's Virtual Dark Sky 220

    Andrea Moore discusses her recent ultra-running events, including the Dark Sky 220 and Cocodona, as well as her involvement in a virtual yard sale for the Warrior Trail Foundation. The conversation covers the challenges and experiences of a long-distance race, including aid station mishaps, sleep deprivation, course navigation, and the support of crew and pacers. It also delves into the physical and mental toll of the race, as well as the beauty and difficulty of the terrain. The conversation covers the challenges and experiences of a race event, including extreme weather conditions, navigation difficulties, and the emotional and physical toll on the participants. It also highlights the importance of community, support, and determination in overcoming obstacles. Takeaways Ultra-running challengesVirtual yard sale for charity Aid station mishaps can significantly impact the race experienceSleep deprivation and course navigation are major challenges in long-distance races ResilienceCommunity Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Ultra-Running Events09:56 Virtual Yard Sale for Charity34:26 The Beauty and Difficulty of the Terrain01:35:04 Future Race Participation and Community Support

    1h 23m

  6. 12/29/2025

    Episode 5 - Navigating Loss With Chad Pritchard

    The conversation covers topics such as military service, deployments, challenges faced, resilience, transition to civilian life, running as a coping mechanism, ultra running experiences, and personal challenges. It also delves into the significance of the Warrior Trail Foundation and the Cherry Springs 110 race as a means of processing personal grief and finding support. The conversation delves into themes of resilience, shared grief, and the transformative power of the trail. It explores coping with loss, navigating trauma, and the unique challenges of the race. The role of support, the impact of shared experiences, and the vision for future races are also highlighted. Takeaways Military service shapes resilienceRunning serves as a coping mechanismThe Warrior Trail Foundation provides support and community Resilience in the face of adversityThe transformative power of shared experiences Chapters 00:00 The Meeting and Military Career05:21 Civil Affairs and Intel10:24 Transitioning to Civilian Life16:02 Ultra Running and Coping23:26 Cherry Springs 110 Race34:43 Finding Solace in Shared Grief41:16 Navigating Trauma and PTSD47:07 Support and Tough Love55:10 The Challenge of the Trail

    56 min

  7. 12/01/2025

    Episode 4 - Amber Bouge Cruises The Mammoth 200

    keywordsrunning, happiness, endurance sports, emotional resilience, aid stations, positivity summaryIn this conversation, Amber shares her experiences during endurance running, highlighting the joy and emotional resilience she felt throughout the journey. Despite the challenges, she maintained a positive outlook, which was evident to those around her. takeaways People commented on how light I looked on my feet.I was always smiling and high-fiving people.I was just so happy the whole time.I never hit a low during the run.I felt super happy throughout the experience.Emotional resilience is key in endurance sports.The support from aid stations was uplifting.Positivity can carry you through tough times.Running can be a joyful experience.Maintaining a positive mindset is crucial.

    42 min

  8. 10/30/2025

    Winning the Triple Crown of 200s with Manu Vilaseca

    In this episode of the Longer Miles podcast, host Christopher Raup and co-host Brittany Peterson engage in a deep conversation with ultra runner Manu Vela Seca, who shares her incredible journey through the Triple Crown of 200s. Manu discusses her motivations for taking on such daunting challenges, the experiences she had during each race, and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation highlights the importance of mental strength, the power of presence in racing, and the value of simplifying the racing experience. Manu also reflects on her coaching philosophy and how her personal experiences have shaped her approach to training others. The episode concludes with Manu's future aspirations in the world of ultra running.

    1h 9m
  • 8 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

The Longer Miles is a Warrior Trail Foundation production designed to share the trail running experiences and insights from our community. The title alludes to the challenges we encounter on our journey, and the resilience we lean into, despite the difficulty. If ultra-running is "life-in-a-day" (or multiple days!), then there's much to be learned from how our hosts and guests approach their training, events, wins and losses. Our ultimate goal is that you learn something along the way, and if not, at least be entertained in the journey!

Information

  • Creator
    Christopher Raup
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    8
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Christopher Raup