Young, Fit, and Ready for the Pain Cave at Western States 100: Hans Troyer’s Journey

Hans Troyer’s Unconventional Rise to the Top of Ultramarathoning

At just 25 years old, Hans Troyer has already made his mark on the ultra scene, setting a course record at Bandera 100k and securing a coveted Golden Ticket at Canyons. Now, he's headed to the 2025 Western States 100 with his signature combo of grit, enthusiasm, and YouTube energy.

In this episode, Hans opens up about his rapid ascent in the sport, what it means to be “young and fit,” and how he’s preparing mentally and physically for the biggest race of his career.

“I try to embrace the suffering. That’s where growth happens.”

From Fastpacking to Pro Podiums

Hans didn’t start out with pro ambitions. He discovered trail running after fastpacking the John Muir Trail. But the mountains called, and his talent took off. From local races to Golden Tickets, he’s pieced together a career on determination, DIY training, and learning from every hard effort.

Embracing the Pain Cave

A theme that comes up again and again? Suffering. Hans is unafraid to go to the pain cave—both in races and in training. He talks about the mindset it takes to stay focused in 100Ks and beyond, and how he’s learning to balance that intensity with long-term health.

Fueling, Sponsors, and Staying True

With support from brands like Altra and Tailwind, Hans has refined his fueling strategy for long efforts. In this episode, he breaks down what works for him and what he’s still figuring out.

“I’m not the perfect racer. But I show up, I try hard, and I learn every time.”

What You’ll Learn Listening to This Episode:

• Hans’ origin story as a pro trail runner

• How he earned his Golden Ticket to Western States

• The role of suffering and mental toughness in ultra racing

• Hans’ approach to fueling, training, and recovery

• What it’s like to race with cameras and share it all on YouTube

You’re going to want to listen to this one! 👇

Authenticity, Broadcasting, and Building the Future of the Sport with Kara Goucher

Kara reflects on her lifelong love of running, starting with childhood jogs through the Minnesota woods with her grandfather. That joy, she says, has carried her through a decorated professional career and into a new season of goal-setting.

Even after injuries and a dystonia diagnosis, Kara has found purpose in chasing new challenges, like breaking 19 minutes in the 5K. Her current running isn't about proving anything; it's about staying connected to movement, motivation, and community.

“If I’m not going to run 14:50 again, does that mean I don’t run? Hell no. I’m not in the NFL — I can still put on my shoes and go.”

The Business of Being an Athlete (Without Losing Yourself)

Kara dives into the athlete sponsorship world, discussing how she landed long-term deals with Brooks and NBC not by “building a brand,” but by being herself. Still, she recognizes the challenge many athletes face — navigating rigid contract expectations while trying to protect their bodies and mental health.

She shares why content creation can be both valuable and draining for athletes, and why relatability and storytelling are powerful assets in this evolving sponsorship era.

“Share the ups and the downs. Don’t just share the highlight reel. That’s what people connect with.”

Behind the Mic: Broadcasting Track and Marathons

Kara takes us into the world of sports broadcasting, breaking down how she tailors commentary for different audiences — from die-hard Diamond League fans to casual Olympic viewers.

She explains why she’s vocal about improving gender equity in race coverage, and how she sees broadcasting as both a privilege and a responsibility: to inform, to include, and to inspire.

“Track is a three-ring circus — you need to explain what’s happening, why it matters, and make people care. Especially when it’s their first time watching.”

Creating Events: What She Learned from Save the 10,000

With Des Linden, Kara co-founded Save the 10,000, a track meet created to give U.S. athletes another chance to hit qualifying times or test tactics in the 10K — a race that’s increasingly under threat of elimination.

She walks through the challenges of launching the event: fundraising, securing drug testing, coordinating broadcast coverage, and ensuring it served its purpose — supporting athletes.

“We gave away $44,000 in prize money. It was hard. But it mattered. And we’re doing it again.”

Rethinking Athlete Teams and Sponsorships

Kara responds to the emergence of athlete-led training groups like Meridia, started by Colleen Quigley. Drawing from her own experiences at Bowerman and the Oregon Project, Kara explores how team culture, mental health resources, and autonomy should factor into how teams are structured.

She’s candid about what worked, what didn’t, and what she wishes she had access to as an athlete navigating high-stakes contracts and intense expectations.

“You’re either A, or you’re out. We need options, support, and outside voices that center athlete well-being, not just performance.”

Advice to the Next Generation (and to Brands)

To wrap, Kara shares advice for young runners and for the brands that support them. Her message is clear: longevity and joy matter more than hype, and we need systems that encourage both.

“Don’t be so greedy. Think long-term. The athletes love this — they’re not going anywhere. But they will leave if they’re miserable.”

You’re not going to want to miss this with the absolute GOAT 👇

The Adventure Buddy You Need 👇

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About Jon Levitt and For The Long Run

Jon is a runner, cyclist, and podcast host from Boston, MA, who now lives in Boulder, CO. For The Long Run is aimed at exploring the why behind what keeps runners running long, strong, and motivated.

Follow Jon on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter.