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HappyCast

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happyendingstrailcrew

For all things trail running – unfiltered.
Podcast 🎙️- HappyCast with Andrew (@marvindal), Stephanie (@liveloveultrarun) & Dylan (@crazydylll69)

This week we’re taking it back to where it all b

This week we’re taking it back to where it all began. While the crew is busy, we’re dipping into the archives and replaying the very first episode of HappyCast — the one that sparked the Happy Endings Trail Crew and everything that’s grown from it.
In this throwback, you’ll hear the full origin story: how a chaotic weekend at Rocky Raccoon brought three underprepared runners together, the debut of the infamous beaver costume, the birth of the “weed wobble,” and the moment we realized this community was something special. The audio may be rough around the edges, and honestly… so were we — but the heart of what makes Happy Endings what it is today was already there.
Whether you’re newer to the podcast or you’ve been with us since day one, enjoy this trip back to the beginning. We’ll be back with a new episode soon — but for now, here’s the throwback that started it all.

When brutal weather forced Cactus Rose to relocate

When brutal weather forced Cactus Rose to relocate to the unforgiving hills of Camp Eagle, most runners hesitated—but not Houston’s own Madeline Green. With no aid stations, no crew, and endless miles of mud, rain, and lightning, she pushed through 105 miles of chaos to become the only female finisher of one of Texas’ toughest ultramarathons. In this episode, Stephanie and Andrew dive into Madeline’s mindset—how she handled a last-minute course change, two nights alone on the trail, and the mental rollercoaster of a self-supported 100-miler. From training on Houston’s flatlands to conquering Camp Eagle’s rocky climbs, her story is pure grit and quiet determination.

As always, things get candid, funny, and just a little chaotic. The crew swaps stories about storms, hallucinations, and what happens when your headlamp flash convinces you lightning’s about to strike. Madeline talks redemption, recovery, and what it means to represent women in the most rugged corners of ultrarunning—all while proving that sometimes, the loneliest miles lead to the loudest triumphs.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happycast/id1620064686?i=1000735344174

Spotify: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happycast/id1620064686?i=1000735344174

Stephanie returns fresh off her 30-hour adventure

Stephanie returns fresh off her 30-hour adventure at the Ghost Train Trail Races in New Hampshire, sharing what it took to push through 115 miles of near-perfect conditions, unexpected challenges, and one of her strongest performances yet. From the mental battle of deciding to go beyond 100 miles to the moment she realized she was on track for the second-fastest female finish in race history, this episode dives deep into what it means to truly test your limits.

Andrew and Stephanie catch up on the busy fall race season, updates from the DFW trail running scene, and the many familiar faces lighting up the course around the country. They also talk about the balance between ambition and self-belief, and how saying your goals out loud can transform the way you chase them.

To close things out, Regina hops on for a quick life update and some laughs, including talk of upcoming adventures like Girlfriends with Grit and a few too-honest travel stories from Stephanie’s post-race flight home. It’s a mix of celebration, reflection, and classic HappyCast chaos — the perfect reminder that growth comes from going just a little further than you thought you could.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happycast/id1620064686?i=1000734163964

Spotify: https://spotify.link/R2oSB7hyTXb

YouTube: https://youtu.be/1Tp3L_ZDEcE

This week on the HappyCast, we have a special (ver

This week on the HappyCast, we have a special (very) late night episode and a small reunion of sorts that quickly becomes unhinged as we have Aaron Kubala (@aaronkubala) of Speed Project and Moab 240 Pool Boy fame join to talk about his latest undertaking - The Ultra Gobi (@ultragobi). Andrew and Aaron sip on some wine all throughout and try to stay on track to talk about this latest undertaking. This is a 400km race through the Gobi Desert in China that traverses the ancient Silk Road. Aaron was able to not only finish, but he ended up running a majority of the race with another 200 mile juggernaut, Jovica Spajic. We hear all about this experience and the formation of a friendship that will last the test of time.

And in a twist development, Mika Thewes (@sugarcrashvegan) joins us to help stir the pot and create even more madness in this episode as we talk about all sorts of topics. For those who enjoy a well structured episode focused solely on trail running, this one may not be it.

So join in on the chaotic, free-flowing nature of this episode as we learn more about Aaron’s epic undertaking and, well, a lot of other stuff. There’s sure to be something in this episode that will tug at the heart strings…or not. Who can say.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happycast/id1620064686?i=1000733088535

Spotify: https://spotify.link/imVVnc5rHXb

YouTube: https://youtu.be/AW1QwAzNNIQ

Out tomorrow! Aaron Kubala talks about @ultragobi,

Out tomorrow! Aaron Kubala talks about @ultragobi, @marvindal forgets about Mika, and Aaron and Mika talk some smack and build up some anticipation for their 2026 showdown. All this, and a LOT more, as @aaronkubala talks about his Ultra Gobi 400k experience and has @sugarcrashvegan join in on the fun. Disclaimer: this was a late-night episode, so Andrew and Aaron sip on some wine 🍷 and have some fun! Full episode out tomorrow on all podcast platforms and YouTube. #running #trailrunning #ultrarunning #200miles #podcasts #runningpodcast

Host Andrew Marvin is joined by guest host Isabell

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.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happycast/id1620064686?i=1000731913526

Spotify: https://spotify.link/9CzemMUcuXb

YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=71dWur6wMww&feature=youtu.be

The Happy Endings Trail Crew sits down with five i

This Wednesday on the HappyCast, we are joined by

This Wednesday on the HappyCast, we are joined by five members of the inaugural finishing class of the @themammoth200 and talk all-things Mammoth 200! We are joined by @adam_insta_g, @ultraflykev, @rachel__entrekin, @finding_my_dirt, and @cprunsfar. All entered this race with some interesting narratives, and we hear how everything played out high in the Eastern Sierras. And did we mention just how much they loved this course? A mammoth-sized course deserved a mammoth-sized discussion. Check out the podcast episode on all platforms, even YouTube, this Wednesday. And as always, Live Más 🌮 🛎️ #running #trailrunning #run #ultrarunning #trailrace #ﬁtness #200miles

Stephanie takes us to New Jersey for her 22nd stat

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 dropping out just days before the race, 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 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.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happycast/id1620064686?i=1000729457950

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0H9Fxwr1D8eVpJQz854X7s?si=CtRecg_uRDSYmlBzpppeEQ

This week on HappyCast, Stephanie sits down with r

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 “Monster Donut” 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.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happycast/id1620064686?i=1000728340561

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5vhSdUqLkai8V4hkg9LUbk?si=zMXWdpQjSVuY4dpHgSAtEA

***some audio issues throughout but Dylan did a great job fixing it up as much as possible!

This week on the HappyCast, Stephanie sits down wi

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.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happycast/id1620064686?i=1000727146719

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6iV2YzSt8CO6DAdkIXbsVi?si=2hKWgnkxTGakOQtj5gZjrw

After several years away from race directing, Rob

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.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happycast/id1620064686?i=1000725836888

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/21Lpn8mTv58LVkgxfn4KpV?si=3pQpsu4uQLmcudPbXoHUGg

YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=dHwVgFM4rRA

@rob.goyen returns to the race directing scene wit

@rob.goyen returns to the race directing scene with @riseracingco, and he was one of our VERY first guests on the HappyCast 3.5 years ago. So @marvindal and @liveloveultrarun reminisce with him, as this is also where the crew met for the first time years ago at one of his races. We talk all things Rise Racing and how Rob plans on bringing new and bigger things to the trail racing scene in Texas. Check it out tomorrow!

Sometimes the hardest part of ultrarunning isn’t

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 Six-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.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happycast/id1620064686?i=1000724685234

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1SKfsi2QMuoAZGRXYGxta0?si=J_3EA6WHQGmf3CbaDTje_Q

YouTube: https://youtu.be/k1vkvENIt70

In this week’s HappyCast, Andrew and Stephanie s

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.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happycast/id1620064686?i=1000723670660

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/24p3I6WQGKo07OsqhikL6w?si=Ux4z6iGhRD6gjahDTyPcCg

YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=j3J4fzuRIdE

CHRISTUS Children’s Foundation: https://cbo.io/app/public/bidapp/rwp?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwMbxWZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABp3hL_6hmaEMgCgZR8gU8ZlAL0VRh_Lpn4aWRY_z-CUGgRO5xJ6-Y0Wuv63nB_aem_vbnlwbL9hJkiX-8fOQCWgg

We communicate with our performance around these p

We communicate with our performance around these parts #running #trailrunning #run #ultrarunning #trailrace #ﬁtness #memes #roadrunning

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