
Running
Listen now
This week on Trails, Tales & Fails, Max and Rob dive into a more honest conversation around ultra running, routines, streaks, escapism, addiction, and why endurance sport can sometimes become far more than “just running.”
Why do runners become obsessed with structure?
Why do 4am alarms, endless training blocks, and planning life around races somehow start to feel normal?
And where’s the line between discipline, coping mechanism, identity, and unhealthy obsession?
This isn’t a clinical conversation and we’re definitely not pretending to be experts — it’s simply an open discussion based on lived experience, ultra running culture, alcohol, mental health, validation, and the role running can sometimes play in helping people switch off, process stress, or escape life for a while.
Support the show via Patreon and buy us a coffee.
We’re proud to be supported by:
Protein Rebel — get 15% off with code TTF15
Beta Outdoor Sports, where you can get 10% off BV Sports compression and apparel, plus 10% off Näak Nutrition products to fuel your adventures using TTF10.
Trailskin get 20% off with TTFS_20
Don’t forget to click here to join our Strava club to connect with fellow trail lovers and celebrate your own achievements.
👉 Join our Trails, Tales, and Fails Facebook Community to continue the conversation and connect with fellow trail and ultra runners.
If you enjoy the episode, please leave us a rating and share it with your running buddies.

Next listen
Karla Borland: Thames Path 100🏅