In this episode of Weathering The Run, I sit down with Ivi, Chris, and James Stangle of RunFluent Events to talk about the incredible amount of work that goes into growing the trail-running scene in both Florida and Ohio.

RunFluent has evolved from an online coaching business into a family-owned operation that puts on trail and ultra-running events across two states. But as we discuss in this episode, their impact goes well beyond race day.

We talk about the work that goes into building, maintaining, and improving trails, creating memorable race experiences, supporting runners, and helping introduce more people to trail and ultra running. The amount of time, energy, and sweat that goes into keeping these trails accessible and enjoyable is phenomenal, and a lot of that work happens long before runners ever arrive at the starting line.

We also talk about the differences between the trail-running communities in Florida and Ohio, some of the challenges that come with creating races in very different environments, and why investing in the trails and the people who use them is so important to the future of the sport.

RunFluent currently organizes trail and ultra events in both Florida and Ohio, with a focus on creating more than just races, but experiences that bring runners together and strengthen the trail-running community.

Connect with RunFluent

🌐 RunFluent Events: runfluentevents.com

📘 RunFluent on Facebook: RunFluent Events on Facebook

About RunFluent

RunFluent is a family-owned business founded by Chris and Ivi Stangle. What began as an online coaching business has grown to include coaching clients across the country, trail-running events in Florida and Ohio, and race timing services. Their stated mission is to help grow trail and ultra running while maintaining the integrity of the running community.

Todd Hintz is a physical therapist and he loves helping others stay moving. He shares some knowledge and wisdom with us, like how running is not bad for your knees, based on a huge study. Todd also has run a few ultras and is interested in trying to see how far he can run, but also loves running for the joy of it without the restraints of a specific training schedule.

Kevin Goldberg loves to push the limits of how far he can run. He has run several 200+ mile races and we dive into the differences of going that distance. We also talk about some of the crazy weather he has endured with these multi-day events. We had a great chat about the sport of ultra running and finding joy in doing hard things.

Check out his Distance to Empty podcast or follow him in Instagram.