The Free Outside Show is back for the new year, and I’m joined by our correspondent on everything, Allison Mercer. We’re doing the exact opposite of the usual “five months from now” preview content that other podcasts are doing, and instead talking about what’s actually happening this weekend: Bandera (with Molly Seidel), Houston Marathon for the OTQ watch, and why you should care about World Cross Country in Tallahassee (yes, it’s watchable on Peacock, yes, team tactics make it way more fun than you think, and yes, there are statue alligators on the course).

From there, we get into the real chaos: Burrito League expansion, why it works as an “anyone can play” running challenge, and how these community-wide games can be more accessible than the typical big-race ecosystem. Then we go full rant mode on year-end lists, award season fatigue, media bias, and why FKT stories often get misunderstood or flattened by outlets that do not actually live in that world. We also touch on sponsorship transparency, influencer economics, West Coast bias, and why the sport would be better off funding real coverage of barrier-breaking performances instead of paying for interchangeable promo codes. New year, same old us. Racing is back, and we have thoughts.

Chapters

00:00 Racing Resumes: Exciting Events Ahead

05:30 The Thrill of Cross Country Championships

08:38 Understanding Cross Country Scoring and Team Dynamics

10:46 The Burrito League: A Unique Running Challenge

13:42 The Influence of Social Media on Running Culture

16:43 The Bias in Trail Running Media and Awards

19:49 The Importance of FKTs in the Running Community

22:40 The East vs. West Coast Debate in Trail Running

25:48 The Shift in Sponsorships and Influencer Culture

28:43 The Future of Trail Running Events and Coverage

31:44 World Championships and the Impact of Air Quality

35:34 Looking Ahead: Goals for 2026

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