Episode Description
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“Sometimes it’s not about the finish line. It’s about finding joy in the messy middle.”
On this episode of the MidPacker Pod, Troy sits down with trail runner, race director, registered dietitian, and mom: Kayla Fitzgerald for a deep, fun, and relatable conversation about how she juggles it all while still chasing big goals in the ultra world.
Kayla shares her shift from road racing to trail running after realizing the road scene just didn’t vibe with her. What she found on the trails was community, connection, and a whole new way to push herself. From leading group runs to organizing local races under her brand Palmetto Ultras, Kayla has become a cornerstone of her local running community in South Carolina.
We dive into:
Balancing parenting, coaching, and 200-mile race training
Her experience as a registered dietitian and helping runners dial in their race-day nutrition
Upcoming races like Southern States 200, Barkley Fall Classic, and a possible go at Barn Creek Backyard Ultra
Her story of pushing through the Beast of the East 50 Miler—with Troy jumping in as an impromptu pacer!
Whether you’re a trail veteran or just dipping your toes into the dirt, Kayla’s perspective on doing what you love while doing life is refreshing and real.
Athlete Spotlight: Kayla Fitzgerald
Registered Dietitian, Nutrition coach, and mom
Race director and founder of Palmetto Ultras
Focused on inclusive, sustainable community building through trail events
Training for Southern States 200 and the Barkley Fall Classic
Advocate for fueling smarter and training with joy
Kayla's Links
IG: @palmetto.ultras
Website: Palmettoultras.com
Nutrition Coaching Site: Endurance-Nutritionist.com
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Kayla Fitzgerald, trail running, ultrarunning, Barkley Fall Classic, Southern States 200, Barn Creek Backyard Ultra, Beast of the East, race director, Palmetto Ultras, nutrition for runners, mom runner, balancing life and running, Freetrail, MidPacker Pod