Finding Strength in the Storm with Liesl Standish and Julie Benoit

This week on the HappyCast, Stephanie sits down with returning guest Liesl Standish and her pacer, Julie Benoit, to dive into Liesl’s unforgettable journey at the Run Rabbit Run 100. From the moment the weather turned to rain, hail, and near-freezing temps, this race tested every ounce of grit and determination. Liesl shares what it felt like to shuffle through the night wrapped in a space blanket, the toll of soaked gloves and cold hands, and how sheer perseverance pushed her forward when quitting seemed like the only option.Julie offers the unique perspective of both a first-time pacer and volunteer at one of the most chaotic aid stations, where even elite runners dropped due to the brutal conditions. She describes the surreal beauty of fog-filled valleys at midnight, the mental shift of supporting someone else’s race, and how pacing revealed lessons she’ll carry into her own running journey. Their stories highlight the raw reality of ultrarunning: it’s not just about speed, but about resilience, adaptability, and the power of showing up when things get tough.Beyond the race details, the conversation dives into community, motherhood, and what it means to set big goals while balancing real life. From hallucinations of “men in the woods” to the comfort of ramen at a freezing aid station, this episode captures the highs, lows, and lasting impact of Run Rabbit Run. Whether you’re chasing your first ultra, dreaming of a hundred miler, or simply inspired by stories of resilience, Liesl and Julie remind us that finishing is often the greatest victory of all.Be sure to subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and we always appreciate you leaving a good rate and review. Join the Facebook Group and follow us on Instagram and check out our website for the more episodes, posts and merchandise coming soon. Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at [email protected]

After several years away from race directing, Rob Goyen is rising back into action with his new company, Rise Racing Co. In this episode, Andrew and Stephanie catch up with one of HappyCast’s very first guests to hear how Rob has spent his time away, why he chose to step back, and what ultimately pulled him back into the trail running scene. From his early days building Trail Racing Over Texas (TROT) to the ideas now fueling Rise Racing, Rob reflects on the lessons learned and the community he never stopped loving.Rob shares candidly about the challenges of directing races at scale, the toll it took on his family life, and the loss that weighed heavily on his decision to pause. But his passion for creating unique experiences and building trail running community never faded. Now, with Rise Racing Co, he’s bringing that energy back—this time with a sharper focus on creativity, connection, and long-term vision. Listeners will hear about his inspirations, his vision for new kinds of events, and even a few surprising ideas that push the boundaries of what a trail race can be.Whether you know Rob from the legendary Franklin Mountains race, the infamous sheet-cake incident, or his knack for dreaming up off-the-wall challenges, this conversation is packed with stories, humor, and insight. Tune in to hear how Rise Racing Co plans to carve its place in the Texas trail running landscape, why Rob believes community is at the heart of every finish line, and what it means to truly rise back into action.Be sure to subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and we always appreciate you leaving a good rate and review. Join the Facebook Group and follow us on Instagram and check out our website for the more episodes, posts and merchandise coming soon. Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at [email protected]

Sometimes the hardest part of ultrarunning isn’t the miles—it’s just getting an episode recorded. After multiple attempts, the HappyCast crew finally sits down with Lisa Decker and Shashi Reddy to share their stories from two of Laz Lake’s infamous journey races: Vol State and Heart of the South. Both are 300+ mile tests of grit, resourcefulness, and pure stubbornness, and their experiences run the gamut from roadside naps to navigating storms and heat rash with Dollar General t-shirts.Lisa takes us through the camaraderie of her “trauma bonded trash panda” crew at Vol State, while Shashi details the unpredictable game of Heart of the South—where runners don’t even know the starting line until the night before. Between road angels, the legendary “meat wagon” driver who refuses to let you quit, and the strange joys of eating soggy Subway sandwiches mid-race, the stories capture the feral, unpredictable beauty of these journey runs.Since those finishes, Lisa and Shashi haven’t slowed down. Lisa went straight into the brutal heat of the Habanero 100, earning her first sub-30 finish, while Shashi found his way back to the trails at the 6-0 Ranch 50K. With both eyeing even bigger challenges ahead, this conversation is equal parts hilarious, inspiring, and a testament to what happens when runners embrace the chaos of the road.Be sure to subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and we always appreciate you leaving a good rate and review. Join the Facebook Group and follow us on Instagram and check out our website for the more episodes, posts and merchandise coming soon. Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at [email protected]

In this week’s HappyCast, Andrew and Stephanie sit down with returning guest Aimee Jacobs fresh off her run at the Leadville 100, joined by her pacer and close friend, Mel (“DJ Melly Mel”). From San Antonio to the Colorado Rockies, Aimee recounts her buildup to one of the most prestigious 100-mile races in the country, the challenges of training at altitude, and the unforgettable experience of racing at elevation. Mel shares how their friendship grew from early morning base runs to supporting each other through some of the toughest miles of their careers.Aimee opens up about the harsh realities of racing at altitude — coughing up blood at Silver Rush, the relentless GI struggles at Leadville, and even temporary vision loss near the finish. Yet, with Mel at her side, troubleshooting fuel, offering tough love, and even providing questionable DJ playlists, the two pushed through every setback. Listeners will laugh at stories of “the princess pooping her pants,” garden gnome good-luck charms, and Mel’s accidental splits, while also being moved by the raw emotion of Aimee’s finish and the strength of their bond.Looking ahead, Aimee talks about her bold jump into the world of 200-mile races, including Bigfoot 200 and the possibility of a Triple Crown attempt. She also shares her fundraising mission for Christus Children’s Cancer Center, running not just for herself but for kids in need of care. Whether you’re inspired by grit, friendship, or the sheer absurdity that comes with ultra-running, this episode captures the spirit of why we toe the line and keep coming back for more.Be sure to subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and we always appreciate you leaving a good rate and review. Join the Facebook Group and follow us on Instagram and check out our website for the more episodes, posts and merchandise coming soon. Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at [email protected]

In this episode of the HappyCast, Stephanie and Andrew sit down with ultrarunner Rachel Millman, whose race résumé spans mud-soaked DNFs, monster climbs, and fearless returns to the start line. Rachel takes us inside her recent finish at the Ouray 100, a beast of a race boasting over 40,000 feet of elevation gain, where she crossed the line just 23 minutes before the final cutoff. From navigating steep, loose terrain to staying upright during nighttime descents, she shares how grit—and a little stubbornness—got her to the finish.But this conversation isn’t just about one race. Rachel opens up about the string of tough outcomes that came before Ouray, including storm-battered miles at Viper 200, a grueling DNF at Cocodona 250, and the blister battles that have been her biggest nemesis. Her honesty about the mental lows, self-doubt, and problem-solving in the middle of a race paints a real, unfiltered picture of what it takes to keep showing up for the toughest challenges.We also dig into Rachel’s approach to training in Phoenix, her attraction to big-vert events, and what’s on deck next—hint: Moab 240 and Javelina 100 are coming up fast. Whether you’re here for the stories about running waist-deep through floodwater, chasing cutoffs in the mountains, or simply finding joy in pushing limits, this episode is a reminder that sometimes the bravest thing you can do is sign up, show up, and keep moving forward.Be sure to subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and we always appreciate you leaving a good rate and review. Join the Facebook Group and follow us on Instagram and check out our website for the more episodes, posts and merchandise coming soon. Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at [email protected]

In this episode of HappyCast, Andrew and Stephanie are joined by Elliott Waldock — fresh off the Summit 200, one of the most rugged and high-altitude 200-mile races in the U.S. With Dylan notably MIA (possibly launching a Chipotle-based fight club), Andrew drinks wine and scrolls Elliott’s Instagram to dive deep into his running past, landing fortuitously on his very first 100-miler: Brazos Bend. What follows is a hilarious, nostalgic, and surprisingly heartfelt look at Elliott’s journey from Texas trails to the brutal peaks of Colorado.The conversation takes a wild turn when Stephanie realizes she raced alongside Elliott at the Possum’s Revenge 69-miler—where he unknowingly triggered her into a puke-worthy sprint finish. From there, it’s an exploration of shared memories, ridiculous aid station food strategies, Airbnb mishaps, and what it’s like to hallucinate alone at 12,000 feet. Elliott reflects candidly on the Summit 200 experience, calling it the hardest 200-miler he’s ever done and detailing the cold, isolation, and relentless terrain that made it a true test of mental and physical strength.Elliott also shares what the ultra scene is like in his home state of North Dakota, and makes a strong case for why more runners should volunteer—and why Stephanie should come run the Maah Daah Hey 100. We close things out with moose stand-offs, wine reviews, a heartfelt “can’t let it go,” and the kind of chaotic, unfiltered storytelling that makes HappyCast feel like a trail hang with friends.Be sure to subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and we always appreciate you leaving a good rate and review. Join the Facebook Group and follow us on Instagram and check out our website for the more episodes, posts and merchandise coming soon. Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at [email protected]

This week on HappyCast, we welcome Melissa Perez—trail runner, graduate student, community leader, and self-proclaimed lover of the f-word—for a raw and powerful conversation about what it means to run scared and come out the other side stronger. Hot off her recent finish at the notoriously tough High Lonesome 100, Melissa shares how altitude, hyponatremia, and mental fatigue collided in the Colorado mountains—and why this race stands out as one of the most transformative of her life.Joined by hosts Andrew and Stephanie, Melissa opens up about the unexpected challenges of back-to-back 100s (with Angeles Crest looming just one week after), why representation on the trails matters so deeply, and how she’s shifted from racing to heal past trauma to racing in celebration of her growth. From last-minute pacer miracles to clear-pee paranoia, nothing is off the table in this candid chat.We also hear about her all-women’s trail group, Chingonas on the Run, her love for champagne and screamo playlists, and her very special race-day accessory that always brings joy. If you’ve ever doubted your readiness, questioned your path, or needed a reminder that it’s okay to show up scared—this one’s for you.Be sure to subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and we always appreciate you leaving a good rate and review. Join the Facebook Group and follow us on Instagram and check out our website for the more episodes, posts and merchandise coming soon. Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at [email protected]

In this heartfelt and deeply personal episode of HappyCast, Andrew and Stephanie sit down—just the two of them—for a rare one-on-one reflection. Fresh off completing her 21st 100-miler, Stephanie opens up about her emotional journey through the Vermont 100. From navigating recovery and divorce to running the race entirely without audio, she shares what made this one of the most transformative experiences she’s ever had on trail.Stephanie takes us mile by mile through Vermont’s historic course—runnable dirt roads, technical trails, and long stretches without crew. We hear about her surprise pacer Richard, the power of community, and how a simple shift in mindset (“my room is full”) helped carry her through one of the most meaningful weekends of her life. She also shares some hilarious moments, including bathroom misfires, monster popsicles, and a bear encounter at her Airbnb.Andrew and Stephanie close the episode by reflecting on summer running struggles, trail negativity, and what it means to show yourself grace. With no third-party guest and no filter, this episode offers a raw and intimate look at life, loss, and the joy of pushing through it all. Whether you’re chasing your first finish or your 21st, this is one you won’t want to miss.Be sure to subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and we always appreciate you leaving a good rate and review. Join the Facebook Group and follow us on Instagram and check out our website for the more episodes, posts and merchandise coming soon. Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at [email protected]

This week on the HappyCast, we change things up a bit and focus on the business side of running and the colorful apparel it brings by having Elliot Matson, creator and founder of Folklord, join us to tell us all about his up-and-coming business. Folklord and its mythological and storytelling approach to running apparel has been popping up all over the country, and it’s definitely something that’s hard to miss. We talk about Elliot’s colorful and unique approach to selling his products, where his shirts can become just as mythological as the content he’s inspired by. Always rotating in something new, we talk about the challenges about running a growing running company as a one-man show. And on behalf of Folklord and the HappyCast, we will be doing a WEEKLY giveaway for the foreseeable future where we pick one winner a week to win an item (or two) of their choice from Folklord. More about that later. So strap in a let’s go behind the scenes and speak with the man behind the myth, and may your runs always be as colorful as the gear you wear. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and we always appreciate you leaving a good rate and review. Join the Facebook Group and follow us on Instagram and check out our website for the more episodes, posts and merchandise coming soon. Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at [email protected]

In this special fourth appearance, Wes Plate returns to HappyCast with a full breakdown of the inaugural Copper Kings 100—Montana’s newest hundred-mile race and his most ambitious project yet. With co-hosts Stephanie and Andrew, Wes opens up about what it took to bring this dream to life: from months of preparation and a jam-packed U-Haul to navigating stormy skies, deadfall-filled trails, and the high-stakes logistics of a remote mountain race. Spoiler: not even a lightning storm during the race briefing could shake this crew.Stephanie recaps her experience captaining the Our Lady of the Rockies aid station—a mountaintop post where she and a team of volunteers (including both her and Wes’s moms) kept runners alive with mashed potatoes, heated bathrooms, and the occasional mid-hallucination pep talk. Between walking every runner up the hill, managing drop bags and puke blankets, and making sure no one missed the cutoff, this became a spiritual checkpoint for runners and crew alike.With 90 finishers out of 105 starters and only one DNS, the Copper Kings 100 defied all expectations for a first-year race. Wes reflects on what went right, what he learned, and how much this community has grown around a course that winds through solitude, scenery, and suffering. Whether you’re an aspiring race director, a trail runner dreaming of Montana, or just here for stories about flamingo costumes and blowing up propane heaters, this episode is packed with heart, hustle, and humor.Be sure to subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and we always appreciate you leaving a good rate and review. Join the Facebook Group and follow us on Instagram and check out our website for the more episodes, posts and merchandise coming soon. Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed in depth, or a guest you'd like to nominate? Email us at [email protected]