The Trail Chasers
Hosted by Dean Horwitz a trail running enthusiast, who started his journey in 2022, Dean has experienced the transformative power of chasing trails firsthand. Fuelled by a passion for trail running and a knack for connecting with fellow trail chasers, Dean created this podcast to merge both interests.
This podcast is all about embracing the adventure, community, and self-discovery that comes with trail running. Join Dean on a journey of exploration and discovery, where you’ll learn about the world of trail running together. No matter if you’re a seasoned trail pro or just lacing up your shoes for the first time, this podcast is for you.
Whether it’s the exhilarating view from a mountain peak or the camaraderie and making new friends with fellow trail runners, Dean is here to guide you through it all.
The Trail Chasers
Blake Dyson: The Gift of Trails — Building Community, Safety & Purpose on the Mountain
💭 “Trails connect us to wild spaces, to communities, and to ourselves.” — Blake Dyason
What does it really mean to give back to the places we run? To protect the paths that hold our best memories, our hardest moments, and the people we’ve met along the way?
In this episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz is joined by Blake Dyason—a mountain rescuer, conservationist, and founder of Love Our Trails—for a conversation that goes far beyond running.
Blake has spent years building a movement around safety, stewardship, and community. From late-night rescues to alien tree clearing, he’s one of the people quietly keeping the trails safe, open, and alive for the rest of us.
🎯 In this episode, you’ll learn:
✅ Why trail running isn’t just about pace—but about presence
✅ The one sentence that changed Blake’s life forever
✅ What to always carry on a trail run (it’s not just for you)
✅ How trail runners can reduce their impact and prevent damage
✅ The biggest safety mistakes runners make on the mountain
✅ Why “giving back” doesn’t have to mean money
✅ How to build a legacy on the trails—for the next generation
💬 Run long enough, and the mountain gives you something. This one’s about giving something back.
🎙 Trail Chasers Season 3 is proudly sponsored by:
Gilnokie Socks 🧦 – gilnokie.com | Use code TRAILCHASERS for 20% off
Boonies Sunglasses 🕶 – boonies.co.za | Adventure-ready eyewear for every runner
📩 Enjoying the season? Subscribe, review, and tag us on Instagram @trailchaserspod to share what the trail has given you.