# Human Performance Outliers Podcast with Zach Bitter

Human Performance Outliers Podcast with Zach Bitter is a trail and ultra running podcast hosted by Zach Bitter. Interview show plus a shorter 'Run The News' commentary segment, published about weekly; interviews usually run 60 to 90 minutes, and news and solo episodes 15 to 60.

## What it is
An ultrarunner hosts long interviews with record-setting athletes, coaches and researchers, with a focus on ultramarathons, from backyard and multi-day formats to 100-mile trail races. A recurring news episode reviews recent race results and debates in the sport, such as fueling trends, doping and race policies. Solo episodes follow the host's own training, including his return from a blood clot.

## Why listen
- Close coverage of backyard and multi-day ultras, including guests who hold records in those formats.
- Science-leaning guests on fueling, energy deficiency (REDs) and training intensity.
- Run The News episodes that react to major races within days.

## Start here
- [Episode 499: REDs & Body Composition | Dr. Trent Stellingwerff](https://humanperformanceoutliers.libsyn.com/episode-499-red-s-body-composition-dr-trent-stellingwerff) (2026-08-28): A sports scientist explains relative energy deficiency in endurance athletes and how body composition is managed.
- [Episode 502: Backyard Ultra Records & Recovery | Phil Gore](https://humanperformanceoutliers.libsyn.com/episode-502-backyard-ultra-records-recovery-phil-gore) (2026-09-22): The backyard-format world best holder talks about his record and a later personal project, a good introduction to the format.

## Hosts
- Zach Bitter: Ultramarathon runner who hosts the show and covers health, endurance, hybrid training and nutrition, per the show's description.

## Recent guests
- Meg Eckert, "Episode 505: Meg Eckert Runs 636 In 6-Days" (2026-11-05)
- Allison Mercer, "Run The News | Moab 240 Cancellation & Chicago Marathon" (2026-10-13)
- Kim Gottwald, "Episode 503: Last Soul Ultra Steals The Show | Kim Gottwald" (2026-09-25)
- Phil Gore, "Episode 502: Backyard Ultra Records & Recovery | Phil Gore" (2026-09-22)
- Brian Reynolds, "Episode 501: First Double Amputee To Finish Leadville 100 Mile Run | Brian Reynolds" (2026-09-10)
- Thomas Nobbs, "Episode 500: The Truth Behind Run Slow To Run Fast | Thomas Nobbs" (2026-09-03)

## Facts
- Episodes: 528
- Latest episode: 2026-11-05
- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/human-performance-outliers-podcast-with-zach-bitter/id1363389413?uo=4
- RSS: https://rss.libsyn.com/shows/118682/destinations/685773.xml

Checked 2026-11-12. Source: https://runningpodcasts.com/shows/human-performance-outliers/