This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we’re joined by Kayla Fitzgerald, the force behind Palmetto Ultras, whose journey from "hating running" to directing unique endurance events is a masterclass in mental strength and community building.

Kayla gets real about how running started as a rare moment of personal peace amidst parenting responsibilities and quickly evolved into a spontaneous dive into the world of ultras. We discuss her transition into race directing, where she stepped up to keep her local ultra scene alive, even when faced with "sink-or-swim" challenges like unexpected flooding in the Francis Marion trails.

From the mental grit required for the Last Man Standing format to her passion for creating the most inclusive, welcoming environment possible, Kayla’s story is all about the joy of nature and the power of the running community. Plus, we talk about why aid station snacks might just be the most important part of the race!

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're honored to sit down with John Calabrese, an ultra runner whose journey proves that sometimes, the hardest parts of life lead you straight to the starting line!

John opens up about how personal struggles, including a divorce, fueled his passion and led him from the road to the trail. We dive deep into the mental challenges of ultra running, sharing hilarious anecdotes about the hallucinations that come with extreme fatigue (seriously, what did he see?!).

But John's story is bigger than miles and mirages. He shares his incredible commitment to Ainsley's Angels, running alongside people with disabilities and finding profound joy in supporting others. John's journey highlights the power of community, resilience, and finding pure joy in the run.

Get ready for an honest, funny, and deeply inspiring conversation that shows how running can truly be the best therapy.

This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're honored to welcome the incredible Ashley! Her story is proof that hard work, meticulous planning, and a little bit of community magic can lead to extraordinary achievements.

Ashley takes us behind the scenes of her monumental achievement: setting the Pinhoti FKT! We dive into the year-long logistics, the crucial nutrition adjustments, and how she learned to "burn the boats" for total commitment. She shares the raw, honest truth about the challenges faced during the FKT and the sheer relief and celebration at the finish.

But what truly fueled her? Ashley opens up about the "village" that made it possible—the unwavering family support and the experienced pacers who carried her through. From tackling the Mohican 100 Miler to the emotional highs and lows of the Pinhoti, this conversation is a powerful reminder that perseverance pays off, and that the best part of ultra running is the people you share it with.