Best Steve Vinson Podcasts (2025)

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Cody Poskin: Running with Joy, Seeking Adventure, and Racing in China 52:07

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1h ago52:07

52:07

In this episode AJW Cracks a Brew with 23 year old Missouri ultrarunner Cody Poskin to discuss his approach to training and racing, the youth movement in long distance running, and his experience running (and winning!) the Ultra Gobi 400K race in China. Follow Cody on Instagram @cody_poskinBy Andy Jones-Wilkins

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Hans Troyer: Overcoming Rhabdo, Western States and His Upcoming Race at the JFK50 58:54

4d ago58:54

58:54

In this episode AJW cracks a brew with 25 year old Hans Troyer to discuss his experiences with Rhabdomyolisis at the 2024 Black Canyon 100K, hist experience at his first Western States in 2025 and his hopes for the upcoming JFK 50. Follow Hans on Instagram @hanstroyer Check out the film "The Kid" right here…

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Kaylee Frederick: Running ultras as a teenager, finding her groove, and shocking the world at the World 24 hour Championships 52:23

9d ago52:23

52:23

In this first episode of the Youth Movement series AJW cracks a brew with 20 year old Kaylee Frederick of Pittsburgh, PA. In their wide ranging conversation they discuss running ultras at a young age, silencing the doubters, and surprising the field at the 24 Hour World Championships earlier this year. You can follow Kaylee on Instagram @frederick.…

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Andy and Shelly Jones-Wilkins: Javelina, Western States, and Sustaining a Healthy Relationship Through Three Decades of Ultrarunning 51:53

23d ago51:53

51:53

In this episode AJW hands the microphone to his son Logan to crack a brew with wife and mother Shelly Jones-Wilkins. In their conversation they discuss their recent experience at the Javelina Jundred, their 10 year run at the Western States 100, and some of the keys to sustaining a long term healthy relationship with ultrarunning as a big part of i…

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Pharma 4.0: AI, Validation, and the Future of Life Sciences 13:32

1M ago13:32

13:32

Step into the future of pharmaceutical and medical device innovation with Steve on The Life Science Effect. In this episode, Steve explores the transformative power of Pharma 4.0 and Validation 4.0, drawing insights from two thought-provoking blog posts by Robert Perks of Performance Validation. Discover how digital-first strategies, artificial int…

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Zach and Nicole Bitter: The Twists and Turns of Sharing a Life of Running 54:38

2M ago54:38

54:38

In this episode AJW cracks a brew with veteran ultrarunners Zach and Nicole Bitter. In their wide ranging conversation they discuss the trials and tribulations of sharing a life of running and some of their fondest memories of supporting one another in some of the sport's most competitive events. Follow Zach on Instagram @zachbitter Follow Nicole o…

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Leah Yingling and Mike McMonagle: Parenting, Running, and the Changing Media Landscape in Trail Running 1:04:55

2M ago1:04:55

1:04:55

In this latest episode of the partnership series AJW cracks a brew with Leah Yingling and Mike McMonagle to discuss their new roles as parents to young Monte, how they balance both of their competitive running lives, and their unique roles in the ever changing trail running media landscape. Follow Leah on Instagram @leah_yingling Follow Mike on Ins…

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Abby and Cordis Hall - Western States and the Fine Balance Between Running and Living 55:16

2M ago55:16

55:16

In this latest episode in the partnership series AJW cracks a brew with 2025 Western States winner Abby Hall and her husband Cordis to talk about their collective experience at Western States and how they successfully balance elite ultramarathon training with their busy lives. Follow Abby @abby.k.hall Follow Cordis @cordisimo…

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The End of Solo Leadership: How Industry 4.0 is Changing the Game 10:22

3M ago10:22

10:22

In this thought-provoking Active Ingredient episode, host Steve Vinson tackles a leadership paradigm that's challenging everything he thought he knew about accountability. Inspired by Sheila Rohra's Forbes article on breaking people silos, Steve dives deep into the tension between traditional "one person accountable" thinking and the emerging conce…

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AJW Unplugged - Perfomance Enhancing Drugs, Javelina Training, and Hip Replacement Update 50:28

2M ago50:28

50:28

In this midseason Unplugged episode AJW laments the most recent positive drug test in trail running, gives an update on the Javelina Jundred and provides a little insight on his ongoing recovery from hip replacement surgeryBy Andy Jones-Wilkins

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Jenn and Jeff Browning: Juggling Family, Running, and Life on the Go 56:24

3M ago56:24

56:24

In this third episode of the Partnership Series AJW cracks a brew with Jenn and Jeff Browning to talk about managing a busy family and a complex running calendar all while maintaining marital harmony and working full-time. Learn all about Jeff and his various projects on his website https://www.giddyupultra.com/…

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Cheryl and Karl Meltzer: Navigating the Peaks and Valleys in Running and Life 50:04

3M ago50:04

50:04

In this second episode of the Partnership Series AJW cracks a brew with Cheryl and Karl Meltzer to discuss the highs and lows of a decades long relationship, some of their most memorable experiences over 30 years on the trails, and what the future holds for them as they enter their next chapter. Check out everything Karl is up to on his website htt…

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Raul Zavaleta's Journey from UCLA to Life Science Legend 52:40

3M ago52:40

52:40

Meet Raul Zavaleta, the visionary engineer whose innovations fundamentally transformed how clinical trials collect and process data. In this captivating conversation, Raul shares the incredible journey from UCLA graduate to co-founder of what became Covance - one of the world's largest clinical research organizations. Discover how a simple frustrat…

1
Callie Vinson and Scott Traer - Arizona Ultrarunning's Dynamic Duo 49:01

3M ago49:01

49:01

In this first episode of his "partnership series" AJW cracks a brew with Callie Vinson and Scott Traer to talk about balancing training and racing schedules, coaching, supporting one another, and celebrating the beauty of the Arizona Trail Running Scene. Follow Callie on Instagram @callievinson Learn about Scott's coaching here https://www.runfasta…

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Active Ingredient - Alzheimer's Advancements 7:40

4M ago7:40

7:40

In this episode, Steve reads and discusses an article by Jason Bork titled "Alzheimer's, a Disease to be Forgotten?," featured in the Indianapolis Business Journal's special supplement, Biofutures. Steve shares his off-the-cuff impressions and insights on Bork's article, which discusses the current state of Alzheimer's research, the challenges of c…

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Active Ingredient - Animal Health Attracting Capital 9:16

4M ago9:16

9:16

This is the second installment of Active Ingredient. I read an article and answer a few questions about it. It's shorter than the regular episodes. I try to get to the key points of the article - the active ingredient. This episode is my off the cuff reaction to an article in the Indianapolis Business Journal by Daniel Lee, Animal-health startup Bi…

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Active Ingredient - European Bid to Attract Biotech 6:24

5M ago6:24

6:24

Welcome to a new feature I am calling Active Ingredient. I read an article and answer a few questions about it. It's shorter than the regular episodes. I try to get to the key points of the article - the active ingredient. This episode is my off the cuff reaction to an article in Cure by Ryan Flinn called Europe Makes Bold Bid to Attract Biotech Am…

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S2E8: Pharma in Flux: Navigating Regulatory Uncertainty and Manufacturing Momentum in 2025 16:41

5M ago16:41

16:41

In this mid-2025 update, The Life Science Effect explores the latest trends in pharma and medical devices—from regulatory upheaval under RFK Jr. and Dr. Makary to continued momentum in U.S. drug manufacturing. Learn how industry leaders are navigating clinical trial delays, FDA uncertainty, and global GLP-1 market expansion. Full transcript: Hey, e…

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AJW Unplugged - The Western States 100 2025 Show 47:25

5M ago47:25

47:25

In this most recent edition of AJW Unplugged, AJW discusses intriguing storylines going into this year's race, makes his predictions for top-5 men and women, and shares what his plans are for Race Day. Follow AJW on Instagram @ajoneswilkinsBy andy jones-wilkins

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Topher Gaylord - Honoring Older Runners at Western States and the Future of the Race 1:09:07

6M ago1:09:07

1:09:07

In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Topher Gaylord, veteran ultrarunner and President of the Board of Directors of the Western States 100. In their conversation they discuss the tradition of honoring older runners at Western States, the outlook for the 2025 race, and the long term future of the event. Follow Topher on Instagram @tgaylord…

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Jan Vleck - From Boston to Olympic Valley, transitioning from road marathons to Western States 58:53

6M ago58:53

58:53

In this episode AJW cracks a brew with 72 year old Jan Vleck from Olympia, Washington to discuss his transition from roads to trails, his love of the Pacific Northwest Trail scene, and his specific training on the road to the 2025 Western States.By andy jones-wilkins

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AJW Unplugged: Reflections on My Cocodona 250 Experience 48:33

6M ago48:33

48:33

In this episode of AJW Unplugged AJW reflects on his recent experience running the Cocodona 250. Along the way he ruminates about some of the people he met, the lessons he learned, and the ways in which the event will likely alter the way he makes his way in the world. Follow AJW on Instagram @ajoneswilkins…

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Nick Bassett - The Oldest Western States Finisher Attempts to Break His Own Record 49:25

7M ago49:25

49:25

In this episode AJW cracks a brew with 80 year old Nick Bassett who last finished Western States at the age of 73 and is attempting to become the first 80 year old to complete the race. In this wide ranging discussion they discuss training, race execution, and Nick's long history with the event.By Andy Jones-Wilkins

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Ed Willson - Returning to Western States 20 Years Later, Reflections and Revelations 45:16

7M ago45:16

45:16

In this episode AJW Cracks a brew with 70 year old Oregonian Ed Willson to talk about his training for Western States and what he feels are the "Four Pillars of Success" for older Western States runners.By Andy Jones-Wilkins

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Michael Koppy - Running Western States after 10 years of trying 49:00

7M ago49:00

49:00

In this episode AJW cracks a brew with 74 year old Michael Koppy, an accomplished ultrarunner from Duluth, Minnesota. Michael talks about his career running 200+ mile races and his long 10 year journey to the Western States starting line. Consider a contribution to Michael's favorite charity, the Duluth YMCA…

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Michel Polletti - From Chamonix Around the World to Western States 35:53

7M ago35:53

35:53

In this first episode of Season 10 AJW cracks a brew with French ultrarunner Michel Polletti. Michel is one of six 70+ year olds in this year's Western States and in this episode he explains why he is undertaking a particularly unorthodox approach to the race in 2025. Check out Michel's results hereBy Andy Jones-Wilkins

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AJW Unplugged - Western States Golden Tickets, "The Chase" Premiere, and Life as a New Grandpa 41:47

8M ago41:47

41:47

In this latest AJW Unplugged Episode AJW dives into the last two Golden Ticket Races, talks about the incredible new Cocodona 250 film "The Chase", and shares some reflections on how his life has changed since becoming a grandfather. Follow AJW on Instagram @ajoneswilkinsBy Andy Jones-Wilkins

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Andy Blow: The History of Precision Fuel and Hydration and Thoughts on the Future of Endurance Sports Performance 49:05

8M ago49:05

49:05

In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Andy Blow, founder and CEO of Precision Fuel and Hydration. In this episode they discuss the origin story of Precision Fuel and Hydration, recent advances in athlete strategies, and thoughts on the future of endurance sports performance. Learn all about Precision Fuel and Hydration here Read Hayden Hawks' West…

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Shea Aquilano: Finding Trail Running, the Black Canyon 100k and her hopes and dreams for her first Western States 43:11

9M ago43:11

43:11

In this episode AJW cracks a brew with up and coming ultrarunner Shea Aquilano to discuss her early career in running, her 5 year history with the Black Canyon 100K and her hopes and dreams for her first run at the Western States 100. Follow Shea on Instagram @shea_aqBy andy jones-wilkins

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S2E7: Prophetic Musings. Navigating Uncertainty in Life Sciences 18:42

10M ago18:42

18:42

Production Note: Since this episode was recorded, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. was confirmed as the head of HHS. Steve didn't know that at the time but it was a pretty good bet, so the analysis holds up. In this topical episode of The Life Science Effect, Steve explores the uncertainties facing the life sciences industry under the new U.S. administration…

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Joe McConaughey: Eight Year Golden Ticket Quest, Cocodona 250 and Finally Going to Western States 48:43

9M ago48:43

48:43

In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Joe "Stringbean" McConaughey. After seven attempts Joe finally got his Western States golden ticket on his eighth try. In this episode AJW and Joe discuss his journey to Western States, his experiences and advice for Cocodona 250 and his plans for the 2025 Western States. Follow Joe on Instagram @thestring.bea…

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Zoe Rom and Kylee Van Horn - Unpacking the Myths and Mysteries of Endurance Athletes Diets 57:11

10M ago57:11

57:11

In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Zoe Rom and Kylee Van Horn, the host of the "Your Diet Sucks" podcast. In this wide ranging conversation they touch on the myths and mysteries of endurance athletes diets and some of the ways athlets of all types can sift through the noise. Find Zoe's and Kylee's podcast here…

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S2E6: BPM's Commitment to DEIB is Unwavering 9:28

10M ago9:28

9:28

In this timely and thought-provoking episode, Steve Vinson discusses the current landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the corporate world amid increasing political and business pushback. He reflects on recent headlines about major corporations rolling back DEI initiatives and contrasts that with companies like Costco and JP Morgan…

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Hayden Hawks - 2024 Ultrarunner of the Year, His Favorite Memories from a Memorable Year, and Plans for 2025 54:05

10M ago54:05

54:05

In this episode AJW cracks a brew with North American Ultrarunner of the Year Hayden Hawks. They discuss Hayden's excitement at being crowned ultrarunner of the year, some of his favorite memories from 2024, and his hopes for even bigger and better things in 2025. Follow Hayden on instagram @hawks_hayden Special hank you to Hayden's sponsors HOKA, …

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Haroldas Subertas - Upbringing in Lithuania, the Cocodona 250, and Western States. 51:13

10M ago51:13

51:13

In this episode AJW cracks a brew with 2024 Cocodona 250 winner Haroldas Subertas. In a fun, free-form conversation they discuss Harry's race at Cocodona, how he ended up in the US and what he is doing to prepare for his first Western States in June. Follow Harry on Instagram @harry_subertasBy andy jones-wilkins

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S2E5: Denise Bachman, COO of BPM Associates 24:42

10M ago24:42

24:42

In this episode of the Life Science Effect, host Steve Vinson interviews Denise Bachman, Chief Operating Officer of BPM Associates. Denise shares insights into BPM Associates, a life sciences consultancy known for its unique approach and core values. She discusses her journey as a project manager and the importance of building a supportive company …

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Darcy Piceu - High Mountain Running, the Good Old Days and Her Hardrock Legacy 52:45

10M ago52:45

52:45

In this first episode of Season 9 AJW cracks a brew with legendary Colorado Ultrarunner Darcy Piceu to discuss high altitude running, her memories of the early days in her career, and her incredible legacy at the Hardrock 100. Follow Darcy on Instagram @darcypqBy andy jones-wilkins

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AJW Unplugged: 2024 Year in Review, 2025 Predictions, and a Personal Update 53:14

11M ago53:14

53:14

In this year end episode of AJW Unplugged AJW looks back on his predictions from 2024, makes a few more predictions for 2025, and provides listeners with an update both personally and professionally. AJWs 2024 Predictions AJWs 2025 Predictions Pictured left to right; Chris Worden, AJW, Rob Martin.By Andy Jones-Wilkins

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Finn Melanson: Special Year End Episode with Ultrarunner of the Year and other tributes. 1:23:09

11M ago1:23:09

1:23:09

In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Finn Melanson to discuss the year in ultrarunning. In addition to sharing their picks for these prestigious awards they also comment on rookie of the year, surprise of the year, most inspirational of the year, and best trail running film of the year. They wrap up with predictions for 2025. Check out Finn's exc…

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Don Freeman and Scott Warr: Golden Nuggets from the 6 part Council of Elders Series 1:18:36

12M ago1:18:36

1:18:36

In this episode AJW welcomes Don Freeman and Scott Warr from Trail Runner Nation to look back on the Council of Elders Series and reflect on some of the "golden nuggets" that emerged out of those conversations. And, along the way, producer Ryan Warr chimes in with some great nuggets of his own! Check out Trail Runner Nation here Check out Stan Jens…

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Karen Bonnett-Natraj: The 2017 Western States, Mind-Body Connection, and Secrets to a Long Ultrarunning Career 56:12

12M ago56:12

56:12

In this episode AJW cracks a brew with veteran ultrarunner to discuss her dramatic finish at the 2017 Western States as well as her unique approach to the mind/body connection and some of her secrets to success over a long career in the sport. Check out Karen's website here Listen to Karen's podcast here Watch Karen's 2017 Western States finish her…

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S2E4: Jeremy Opperman, Founder and Beating Heart of BPM Associates 36:29

1y ago36:29

36:29

Steve Vinson interviews Jeremy Opperman, the founder of BPM Associates. Jeremy shares his journey from growing up in a small business environment to starting his own company, BPM Associates, which specializes in life science project delivery. He emphasizes the importance of quality and people-focused relationships in his business. Jeremy also discu…

1
Jeff Kozak - Writing and running, 100 Mile Memories, and the Quarry Road Aid Station at Western States 1:12:41

1y ago1:12:41

1:12:41

In this episode AJW cracks a brew with veteran ultrarunner and writer Jeff Kozak. In their wide ranging discussion they touch on the intersection of writing and running, some of Jeff's fondest 100 mile memories, and the wild and wooly Quarry Road Aid Station at Western States where Jeff has volunteered for the past several years. Read Jeff's Ultrar…

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Eric Clifton: Ultrarunning in the 1980s, the 1996 Western States, and aging gracefully in the sport. 1:09:50

1y ago1:09:50

1:09:50

In this episode of the Council of Elders, AJW chats with Eric Clifton about his early days in trail and ultrarunning, brain an east coaster running big West Coast races, and the art and science of aging gracefully in the sport. Eric does not participate in social media but if you want to see something incredible check out his Ultrasignup page here!…

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S2E3: What Do We Do? 18:20

1y ago18:20

18:20

In Season 2, Episode 3 of *The Life Science Effect*, Steve Vinson discusses BPM Associates' work. He explains BPM's core purpose and values—supporting people, fostering teamwork, and reducing turnover in the life sciences industry. Through personal stories, Steve illustrates the challenge of defining "what we do" in simple terms and describes BPM's…

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Geri Kilgariff: Old School Arizona desert trail running and the origins of the Javelina Jundred 48:03

1y ago48:03

48:03

In this episode AJW cracks a brew with Arizona legend Geri Kilgariff. Back in 2002 Geri and a few friends staged the first ever Javelina Jundred. Little did they know what it would become. Sit back, relax and enjoy some great stories from one of the all-time greats in Arizona trail running. Geri stays away from social media but for a glimpse into t…

1
David Horton: JFK, Hardrock, The Barkley and Reflections on 5 Decades of Ultrarunning. 52:32

1y ago52:32

52:32

In this episode AJW Cracks a Brew with ultrarunning legend David Horton. In their wide ranging conversation they discuss David's intense training regimen in his yourh, his experiences at some of the most iconic events in the sport, and his work in recent years as a race director. Check out David's website.…

1
John Medinger - Running Background, Ultrarunning Magazine and the Western States 100. 1:07:50

1y ago1:07:50

1:07:50

In this episode AJW cracks a brew with John Medinger to talk about how he discovered the trails, his early days as a runner, the Ultrarunning Magazine, Ultrarunner of the Year voting, and some of his fondest memories gathered over four decades at the Western States 100. Learn more about John on his Facebook page @johnmedinger…

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S2E2: How Do We Do It? 16:45

1y ago16:45

16:45

Host Steve Vinson continues exploring BPM Associates' core philosophy, following up on Simon Sinek's idea of starting with "why." In Episode 1, Steve shared why BPM does what it does—now, he turns to "how" they do it. Before diving into the business side, Steve shares a humorous and mostly true story about his recovery from outpatient surgery, whic…

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S2E1: BPM's "Why" 26:00

1y ago26:00

26:00

In late 2021, the COO, founder, and CEO of BPM Associates gathered to do their annual planning. They decided that they needed a new vision statement that would resonate with their core ideology. They watched Simon Sinek's TED Talk on starting with "why" and realized that people don't buy from BPM or work for BPM because of what they do, but because…