Episode 102: Shea Aquilano - Why Shea is One to Watch in 2026

There isn’t one way into trail running, and Shea Aquilano is a perfect example of that. In this episode, Hilary sits down with Shea to talk through her path from Midwest soccer player to professional trail runner based in Boulder. Without the traditional track or cross country background, she built her way into the sport through curiosity, patience, and a willingness to figure things out in real time.

A lot of the conversation centers around Black Canyon, a race she’s returned to year after year. Her progression on that course reflects what it actually looks like to improve in trail running. Learning how to manage effort, adjust when things go sideways, and keep showing up even when the outcome is uncertain.

They also get into the mental side of the sport. What it means to sit with discomfort, how to respond when a race doesn’t go to plan, and why failure is part of the process rather than something to avoid.

It’s a conversation about patience, perspective, and building something over time rather than chasing quick results.

This episode is edited and produced by the Sandyboy Productions Podcast Network.

A big shout out to our sponsor ⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠⁠. Go to ⁠⁠pfandh.com⁠⁠ to crush your next race with a personalized fuel & hydration plan. Use code "TTNP15" at checkout.