
In 2024, Rod turned heads by going toe-to-toe with one of the sport’s greatest athletes, Jim Walmsley, at the Western States 100. His fearless front-running and relentless pace put him on the radar of fans and competitors alike. Now, with another year of focused training, refined systems, and added motivation, Rod returns with something to prove—not just that he belongs, but that he’s ready to win.
In this conversation, we dive deep into the mindset and lifestyle of a modern pro trail runner. Rod pulls back the curtain on the level of commitment and precision it takes to not just go pro, but stay pro. We explore the pressures of high-stakes racing, the tactical demands of the Western States course, and how he's evolved as an athlete over the past 12 months.
Rod also shares his thoughts on the innovations driving the next phase of performance in ultrarunning—from wearable tech to advanced nutrition protocols—and what strategies he believes elite athletes must adopt to gain a competitive edge. As one of the early adopters in the “nutritional revolution” of 2024, Rod offers insights on fueling breakthroughs that could redefine what's possible in long-distance trail racing.
If you’re a fan of elite competition, innovation in endurance sport, and the human side of chasing greatness, this is a must-watch conversation.
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* Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains ()
Photo: @sh1tinthewoods
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