The Monster Pod

Deep in the heart of Australia, where red earth meets endless sky, The Monster Pod finds its voice. This is the official audio companion to the West Macs Monster Trail Running Festival, but it’s far more than just race updates. Hosts Simon Duke, Katie Stroud, and Rohan Barwick bring together conversations from the trails, recorded on Arrernte country in mparntwe, also known as Alice Springs. Each episode delves into the spirit of trail running, exploring the personal journeys, gritty challenges, and profound connections forged in remote landscapes. You’ll hear from runners of all backgrounds, event organizers, and locals who share a deep knowledge of this ancient terrain. The podcast captures the raw beauty and demanding reality of running in Central Australia, discussing training for extreme conditions, the unique culture of the festival, and the powerful intersection of sport and place. It’s an authentic listen for anyone curious about what drives people to test their limits against one of the world’s most stunning and formidable backdrops. Tune in for stories that are as much about the landscape and community as they are about the run itself.