Trails, Tales, and Fails – An Ultra Running Podcast
Trails, Tales, and Fails - An Ultra Running Podcast
Podcast Description
Welcome to Trails, Tales, and Fails! Dive into the world of ultra running with host Max Stuart, and co-hosts Rob Nugent, and Sarah Page as they discuss tales and fails of ultra running. Each episode features quirky facts, unforgettable guest stories, and plenty of laughs. From training tips to race-day surprises, they blend practical advice with good humour, making this the perfect podcast for both seasoned runners and curious newcomers. Tune in for a fun and informative journey through the highs and lows of ultra running!
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on various themes relevant to ultra running, including race preparation, training tips, nutrition strategies, and athlete interviews. Episodes delve into specific races, such as the Centurion Hundred Hills 50K and the Montane Winter Spine Race, and feature personal stories from athletes like Ricki Wynne and Laura Watts, exploring their unique experiences and insights in ultra running.

Welcome to Trails, Tales, and Fails! Dive into the world of ultra running with host Max Stuart, and co-hosts Rob Nugent, and Sarah Page as they discuss tales and fails of ultra running. Each episode features quirky facts, unforgettable guest stories, and plenty of laughs. From training tips to race-day surprises, they blend practical advice with good humour, making this the perfect podcast for both seasoned runners and curious newcomers. Tune in for a fun and informative journey through the highs and lows of ultra running!
In this episode we sit down with South Coast ultra runner Simon Withers, one of the rising stars of the UK ultra running scene.
Fresh from a gritty 7th place finish at the South Downs Way 100, Simon reflects on racing one of the UK's most competitive 100-mile ultras, sharing his pacing strategy, nutrition, mindset, and what it takes to perform over such a long day on the trails.
We also discuss his outstanding recent results, including 3rd place at the Arc of Attrition 2025 and 2nd place at the Arc of Attrition 2026, and how his performances have continued to improve year after year.
Along the way, Simon shares lessons learned from years of ultra running, the mistakes that have shaped him as an athlete, what keeps him motivated to keep returning to the start line, and some of the highs, lows and failures that every ultra runner can relate to.
Plus, we put Simon through our regular features: icebreakers, Truth or Lie, and the quickfire round.
Whether you're training for your first ultra marathon, tackling a 100 miler, or simply love trail running, this episode is packed with practical advice and honest insights from one of the South's toughest endurance athletes.
Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee.
We’re proud to be supported by:
Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15
Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.
Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20
Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.
👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.
If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

Disclaimer
This podcast’s information is provided for general reference and was obtained from publicly accessible sources. The Podcast Collaborative neither produces nor verifies the content, accuracy, or suitability of this podcast. Views and opinions belong solely to the podcast creators and guests.
For a complete disclaimer, please see our Full Disclaimer on the archive page. The Podcast Collaborative bears no responsibility for the podcast’s themes, language, or overall content. Listener discretion is advised. Read our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy for more details.