The Mammoth 200 Roundtable: Part 2

Host Andrew Marvin is joined by guest host Isabella Campos-Janovick for Part 2 of our Mammoth 200 Roundtable, featuring two finishers of the inaugural race: Steve Epifano and Amber Bouge. Together they unpack what it was like to take on 200 miles through unpredictable Sierra weather, endless climbs, and the unique camaraderie that forms when everyone is just trying to make it to the next aid station.Steve shares his perspective as both an athlete and coach—balancing recovery, directing his own trail series, and finding beauty in the chaos of high-altitude racing. Amber reflects on tackling her first 200-miler, jumping straight back into mom life, and the mental highs and lows that come with pushing far beyond familiar distance. From lightning storms and ski-shack shelters to hallucinating wiener dogs and debating the merits of Pop-Tarts, the stories capture everything that makes these multi-day races unforgettable.The group also digs into what made the Mammoth 200’s first year special—the strong community support, the creativity of the race organization, and the moments that will bring runners back again. Whether you’re a seasoned 200-mile veteran or just curious about what happens when the miles blur together, this roundtable delivers equal parts humor, honesty, and heart.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]

The Happy Endings Trail Crew sits down with five incredible athletes who took on — and conquered — the inaugural Mammoth 200. Hosts Andrew Marvin and Stephanie Stonebraker guide a lively roundtable filled with stories of grit, community, and chaos from this first-year 200-miler in the Eastern Sierras. From wild weather and sleepless nights to Taco Bell recovery runs, this episode captures what it means to survive (and love) a race that pushes every limit imaginable.Guests Rachel Entrekin, Kevin Goldberg, Adam Williams, Carol Northrup, and Christian Peranzi each bring their unique perspective: a first-time 200-miler’s awe, a husband-and-wife anniversary on the course, and the relentless drive of those chasing finish lines across the country. Together, they paint a vivid picture of a race that somehow felt both brand new and perfectly dialed in — complete with espresso machines at aid stations, lightning storms at the summit, and friendships forged in fatigue.It’s an honest, funny, and down-to-earth look at what really happens over 200 miles — the good, the bad, and the weird in between. The group swaps stories about what kept them moving, what broke them down, and what moments made it all worth it. No hype, no filters — just runners talking about why we keep showing up to do the hard things, even when it makes no sense.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]

Stephanie takes us to New Jersey for her 22nd state on the journey to all 50 with the Wild Goose Trail Festival 100-miler. What could have been a solo grind turned into a full-on adventure of community, resilience, and unexpected friendships. With her original pacer getting injured, Stephanie found last-minute support in Andrew Bondarev, who drove in to help keep her on track through the long night. Along the way, she also met Fra Balbi, a non-binary runner taking on their first 100K, after chasing them down to take a picture of their sign that read “Trans People Belong Everywhere.” That one moment of connection turned into miles of conversation, shared finish-line celebrations, and a reminder of how powerful representation on the trails can be.The episode dives deep into the raw and real side of ultrarunning—from wrong turns that add unexpected miles, to the dreaded “blue loop” that every runner loved to hate, to the mental lows that hit at mile 60, mile 90, and everywhere in between. Stephanie shares how she struggled with self doubt about missed strength training, navigated tough moments like self-regulating through tears on a log, dealing with her period in the middle of the night, and resisting the urge to waste time at her car. Andrew explains the fine balance of pacing—when to push a runner harder, when to simply keep them moving, and how accountability can exist even while you’re asleep in the crew tent. Fra opens up about the challenges of being one of just two non-binary participants at the event, why visibility matters, and how running with a sign sparked conversations that made the miles more meaningful.Together, their stories capture the essence of why ultrarunning is more than just the distance on paper. It’s about the community you stumble into, the resilience you discover in the middle of the night, and the ways running can open space for bigger conversations about identity, representation, and belonging. From close podium finishes to surprise bear encounters, from course records to moments of doubt, this episode is equal parts honest, funny, and inspiring—a reminder that the trail gives back so much more than it takes.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, Stephanie sits down with returning guest Andrea Moore—fresh off an unbelievable streak of six 200-milers this year alone, including the Arizona Monster, Cocodona, Oregon 200, and the grueling Summit 200 in Colorado. Joined by guest host Rachel Moore, the conversation dives into the infamous “MonsterDona” combo, what recovery really looks like between back-to-back ultras, and the unique challenges of pushing through brain fog, altitude, and steep climbs.Andrea opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of Oregon 200, where wildfires forced the race to stop at mile 151, reminding everyone of how unpredictable and humbling trail running can be. She also breaks down the relentless terrain of Summit 200—rocky climbs, 60% grades, and life at 13,000 feet—and what it taught her about fear, resilience, and mental strength. With wisdom like “motion is lotion” and “more fun than run,” Andrea proves why she’s one of the most inspiring figures in the ultra community.Rachel, preparing for her very first 200 at Mammoth, brings fresh questions and reflections, while Stephanie highlights the power of women in ultrarunning and the lessons these races carry into everyday life. From crew strategies to the mental monsters we all face, this episode is a celebration of grit, community, and the wild beauty of running 200 miles.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, 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]