The Trail Life Podcast
Ultrabuds Unleashed: Warrior on the Trails (w/ Chris Raup)
In this episode of Ultra Buds Unleashed from the Trail Life podcast, guest host Izzy B interviews Chris Raupp, a U.S. Army veteran and founder of the Warrior Trail Foundation. Chris shares his inspiring journey from discovering ultra running in his early 50s to completing some of the toughest 200-mile races. Chris discusses the mission of the Warrior Trail Foundation, which provides recreational therapy, coaching, and mental health services for veterans and their families. The conversation covers how trail running has been transformative for Chris and others dealing with PTSD, MST, and physical disabilities, offering a new sense of purpose and community. Chris also recounts the experience of supporting elite runner Jeff Browning’s FKT on the Colorado Trail as a fundraiser for the foundation and outlines upcoming events and ways people can support the cause.
Instragram: @warriortrailfoundation
Website: Warrior Trail Foundation
00:00 Introduction to Ultra Buds Unleashed
01:29 Chris Raupp's Journey into Ultra Running
08:46 The Birth of the Warrior Trail Foundation
15:48 Challenges and Growth of the Foundation
20:04 Jeff Browning's Colorado Trail FKT
25:42 Reflecting on an Unforgettable Week
26:08 Behind the Scenes: Social Media and Teamwork
26:46 Scott Jurek's Surprising Snack
27:47 The Power of Community Support
28:41 Announcing the Foundation's Mission
30:02 Expanding Coaching Programs
32:25 Challenges Faced by Veterans
34:52 The Wander Project Partnership
36:34 Upcoming Fundraising Events
43:45 Race Schedule and Veteran Participation
47:24 Final Thoughts and Call to Action