John Lacroix: Human Potential Running Series

On this episode of The Directors, Cooper sits down with John LaCroix, the founder and director of the Human Potential Race Series. John shares the origin story behind the series and his path into race directing, offering a unique perspective shaped by two decades in trail and ultrarunning. The conversation covers how the sport of ultrarunning has evolved—from a grassroots community to one increasingly influenced by brands and big business. John doesn’t shy away from addressing some of the sport’s growing pains, including the risks posed by inexperienced race organizers. He also talks about how he maintains optimism in the face of these challenges and what the future holds for both himself and the broader trail community.