In this episode of Peak Pursuits, James, Brodie, and Simone reconnect for a big week in trail running.

Simone opens up about her ongoing recovery journey and navigating life with POTS, Brodie breaks down his strong return to racing at Triple Tops and what’s next at GSER, and James shares his cautious but optimistic first steps back from a stress fracture.

The trio dive deep into what smart tapering really looks like for trail and ultra runners — from elite examples to personal lessons — before wrapping up with race results from GPT, Feral Pig, and Triple Tops.

***Don’t forget, use code PEAK at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!***

Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits!

Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits!

Follow Brodie: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/brodie_nank/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/5321505]

Follow Simone: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theflyingbrick_/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/18643506]

Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519] | Website [https://www.coachjamessieber.com/]

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

Setbacks, Comebacks, Taper Chat, and GPT Recap | Episode 83

Trail running is tough on the body — but most injuries don’t happen by chance. They happen from overload, poor communication, or the wrong kind of rehab.

In this episode, James sits down with Luke Nelson, sports chiropractor, running coach, educator and podcaster, to unpack what true injury prevention really looks like for trail runners.

They explore how to manage training load, why ankle sprains are rarely “simple,” the science of staying fit while injured, and how specific strength and plyometric work can make you more resilient on the trails.

Whether you’re chasing your first ultra or your next podium, this conversation will change how you think about running healthy, strong, and injury-free.

***Don’t forget, use code PEAK at Bix’s website [https://www.bixvitamins.com/en-au] for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!***

Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod [https://www.instagram.com/peakpursuits.pod/] to share your thoughts, questions, and trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits!

Follow Luke: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/sportschiroluke/] | Website [https://www.healthhp.com.au/meet-the-team]

Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519]

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter

License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

Luke Nelson: Smarter Injury Prevention for Trail Runners

In Episode 82, James, Brodie, and Jess cover a massive week in Australian trail running. Jess shares her Kosci 50km training update (plus some broccoli-sprout science), Brodie dives into weighted uphill training and his return from injury, and James reflects on progress in his own recovery.

The crew unpack the latest news shaking up the sport — from Salomon backing the Olympic bid to Singletrack taking over Running Wild events — and what it all means for the future of trail running in Australia.

They also recap all the action from Four Peaks, including standout performances from Lucy Bartholomew, Demi Caldwell, Ian Best, and Kate Avery.

Tune in for the biggest stories, insightful takes, and plenty of good banter from the trail.

Results:

 * 4 Peaks (VIC) [https://my.raceresult.com/367788/results#0_421451]
 * Portland 3 Bays Running Festival (VIC) [https://tomatotiming.racetecresults.com/results.aspx?CId=16&RId=29940&EId=1]
 * King Of The Hill BYU (VIC) [https://events.barefootsport.co.nz/event/1568/results?page=1&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacaOLFLhDsDsTc6wU8m1Ey145H1uTr4XssExNJZ_nCUbeiXB5Bu82ZGj5eRrg_aem_OFmyIvSHcb9DWy4WjiqFZQ&brid=qB7BWCcbxRqhb1qyC2u4fw]
 * Bare Creek Trail Run (NSW) [https://www.multisportaustralia.com.au/races/bare-creek-trail-run-2025]
 * Kunanyi Trail Series: Knockers & Knockers Sport (TAS) [https://www.webscorer.com/racealldetails?raceid=412034&topn=3]

***Don’t forget, use code PEAK at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!***

Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits!

Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits!

Follow Brodie: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/brodie_nank/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/5321505]

Follow Jess: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jessjason/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/54364834?oq=Jess%20]

Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519] | Website [https://www.coachjamessieber.com/]

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

Trail Running in the Olympics, Singletrack Events Takeover, and 4 Peaks Recap | Episode 82

For this event preview, James and Brodie are joined by special guest Ben Burgess. Ben raced in the 100 mile event last year and was placed 2nd when the dust settled, and has a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm about this event!

We preview the overall event and the special, yet demanding conditions in which it is held, diving in deep to the 50km and 100 mile fields.

Looking forward to what will no doubt be an epic 4 days of racing, hopefully a little cooler this year!

Thanks for joining us on Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod and share your thoughts, questions, or your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits!

James: @coachjamessieber
Brodie: @brodie_nank
Ben: @_benburgess

GPT 100: @gpt100miler
Photo: @calumnhockey

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/tropicana

License code: MFJHTO0ZMVHA84WI

Grampians Peak Trail 100 2025 Preview

The Australian trail running scene is evolving fast — but its governance, funding, and pathways are still catching up.

In this interview, AUTRA President Gary Mullins unpacks the AUTRA Playbook and explains how AUTRA aims to move from advocacy to authority,  working alongside Australian Athletics, professionalising the sport as a whole, standardise events and coaching, empower race directors, and deliver real value to runners at every level.

This episode dives into the real questions: Who holds the power right now? How will governance evolve? And what does it all mean for everyday runners?

From membership models to world championship selection, James and Gary explore what needs to happen next to make trail running stronger, fairer, and more connected.

AUTRA Playbook [https://www.autra.asn.au/autra-playbook]

***Don’t forget, use code PEAK at Bix’s website [https://www.bixvitamins.com/en-au] for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!***

Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod [https://www.instagram.com/peakpursuits.pod/] to share your thoughts, questions, and trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits!

Follow AUTRA: Website [https://www.autra.asn.au/]

Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519]  | Website [https://www.coachjamessieber.com/]

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter

License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

The Future of Trail Running in Australia: Gary Mullins on the AUTRA Playbook

In this week’s episode of Peak Pursuits, James is joined by Brodie and Vlad for a packed conversation on all things trail running. Vlad shares his plans for the Tarawera 100k, Brodie starts looking forward to some end-of-season events, and James speaks openly about a setback on his return journey.

The trio dive deep into the state of Australia’s National Trail Championships — what’s working, what’s not, and how it could evolve — before taking on the great Strava vs. Garmin debate and what it means for athletes and data-driven coaching.

They wrap up with an in-depth preview of the iconic Four Peaks Run in Bright, including start lists stacked with Australia’s best mountain runners.

Tune in for candid insights, a few laughs, and a big dose of Aussie trail running talk.

Results:

Javellina Jundred

https://live.aravaiparunning.com/#/javelina_jundred-2025?raceId=301823

Great Ocean Trail Ultra

https://tomatotiming.racetecresults.com/results.aspx?CId=16&RId=29929

Heysen Trail

https://my.raceresult.com/368577/

SEQ Trail Series: Pomona (Round 2)

https://www.racetecresults.com/results.aspx?CId=20148&RId=132&EId=1

***Don’t forget, use code PEAK at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!***

Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits!

Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits!

Follow Brodie: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/brodie_nank/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/5321505]

Follow Vlad: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/vladixel/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/3232281]

Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519] | Website [https://www.coachjamessieber.com/]

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

National Champs Debate, Garmin vs Strava, and 4 Peaks Preview | Episode 81

Nicole Paton joins the show to talk about her journey from country Victoria to representing Australia at the Trail World Championships.

We cover how she discovered trail running through adventure and travel, the challenges of balancing elite performance with parenting and work, and the lessons she’s learned from injury and resilience along the way. It’s an honest look at what it takes to stay consistent and competitive in the sport while keeping life in balance.

Tune in to hear the full story.

***Don’t forget, use code PPP at Bix’s website [https://www.bixvitamins.com/en-au] for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!***

Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod [https://www.instagram.com/peakpursuits.pod/] to share your thoughts, questions, and trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits!

Follow Nicole Paton: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/nicolepaton22/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/18926691]

Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519]  | Website [https://www.coachjamessieber.com/]

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter

License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

Nicole Paton: Balancing Family, Work, and the Mountains to Worlds

This episode is hosted by James and Jess, joined by the one and only Sarah Ludowici! Ludo is on the comeback trail post-baby and absolutely tore it up at the Roller Coaster Trail Run. She gives us an update on life, training, and how things have changed since welcoming baby Aurora.

Jess is fresh back from Europe and reflects on her World Champs experience, while James shares some positive news from his injury rehab with a hopeful return to running on the horizon.

We also dive into all the latest race action: Roller Coaster, Blackall 100, Big’s Backyard Ultra, Fully VK, and the 24-Hour World Championships, where Holly Ranson delivered a phenomenal 2nd-place finish, breaking both the Australian and World records!

To wrap things up, we tackle a listener question on overcoming jet lag when travelling for training or races.

Results:

Rollercoaster Run:

https://www.multisportaustralia.com.au/races/roller-coaster-run-2025

Blackall 100:

https://results.sportseventservices.com.au/results.aspx?CId=16287&RId=6488&EId=2

BIG’s BYU Currently On:

https://my.raceresult.com/364272/#0_B3DC1F

World 24 hour Championship

https://live.breizhchrono.com/external/live5/classements.jsp?reference=1384568432549-14

Fully VK

https://www.mso.swiss/events/2363-kilometre-vertical-de-fully/results?type=SCRATCH&typeId=14682

***Don’t forget, use code PPP at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!***

Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits!

Ludo: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/sarahludo] | Strava    [https://www.strava.com/athletes/23066779?oq=ludo]

James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519?oq=james]

Jess: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jessjason/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/54364834]

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

Episode 80: Ludo’s Comeback! Roller Coaster Results & New 24hr World Record

The dynamic duo of Nath and Fraser are back on the mics to give us a run down of how their World Champs went - with Nathan coming out top Aussie in their races and  Fraser throwing in an extra bonus race of coming third at Melb Mara since world champs!  Always wild times. 

Thanks for joining us on Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod and share your thoughts, questions, or your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits!

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/tropicana License code: MFJHTO0ZMVHA84WI

Fraser: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/fraser.darcy94/] | Website [https://fraserdarcy.com/]

Nath: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/nathanpearce_/?hl=en] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/1305884]

Nath and Fraser WMTRC Takeover Part 2!

Welcome to Episode 79 of Peak Pursuits, your ultimate podcast for everything trail running in Australia. This episode is hosted by Sim Brick and Vlad Ixel, with a brief update from Brodie before his internet drops out. The team covers training updates, a listener question on how to stay safe and find people to run with while travelling, and results from the GTWS final, Moab 240 and the TRSA Trail Championship.

Results:

Moab240: https://trackleaders.com/moab240-25

GTWS Final: https://results.stopandgo.pro/1783/ranking/individual/1/1

TRSA Trail Champs: https://eventstrategies.racetecresults.com/results.aspx?CId=90&RId=620&EId=8&dt=2

***Don’t forget, use code PPP at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!***

Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits!

Vlad: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/vladixel/?hl=en] | Strava    [https://www.strava.com/athletes/3232281?oq=vlad]

Sim: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theflyingbrick_/?hl=en] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/18643506]

Brodie: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/brodie_nank/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/3232281?oq=vlad]

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

Episode 79: GTWS Final, Moab240, and Running Safety While Travelling. 

Welcome to Peak Pursuits, your go-to podcast for all things trail running in Australia. Host Simone Brick is joined by fellow trail enthusiasts Brodie Nankervis, Vlad Ixel, and Jess Jason. Together, we're here to fuel your love for trail running, share insider tips, and update you on the latest events and races. With the help of James Sieber, we will be joined by Australia’s best trail runners, showcasing their journeys and the ups and downs of the sport at the highest level.

Peak Pursuits

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