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For The Long Run: Exploring the Why Behind Running

For The Long Run: Exploring the Why Behind Running

Jonathan Levitt

Sports

Exploring the why behind what keeps runners running long, strong, and motivated. Running is a sport that has the power to unite us all and we are here to share conversations about how running has shaped the lives of people within our community, as well as how running has created community in itself. From pro runners and Olympians to ultramarathoners running their first big race to business owners who use running to improve their entrepreneurial journey, we believe in creating community and expanding the running world for all. Hosted by running enthusiast, Jonathan Levitt.

Episodes

The 90% Rule for Sustainable Running Success: Use this Performance Formula

The 90% Rule for Sustainable Running Success: Use this Performance Formula

The formula for elite running performance lies in the consistent application of stress and recovery - repeatable things that you can sustain over time. Cliff Pittman serves as the Coaching Development Director for CTS, where he leads the Ultrarunning and Cycling Coaching staff. With a deep passion for ultrarunning and a commitment to excellence, Cliff specializes in coaching athletes at all levels—from beginners to elite runners. Jon chats with Cliff about: • stress and recovery fundamentals • minimum effective dose for training adaptations • subjective feedback vs. objective data analysis • training specificity for race demands and terrain • how to manage life stress as part of your training load Stay connected: Follow Cliff: www.instagram.com/coachcliffpittman This episode is supported by: AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at https://us.amazfit.com/discount/FTLR2026 and use code “FTLR2026” for 10% off. Vacation Races Run where you play and chase the extraordinary. Use code “FTLR” for 15% off their half marathons, ultras, and trail fests at vacationraces.com through the end of 2026. Precision Dial your fueling in this year. Use code “LONGRUN26” for 15% off your first order at www.precisionhydration.com. Tifosi Optics If you've been curious, now's a great time to try them. Head to tifosioptics.com and use code [FTLR2026] for [20% off]. That's tifosioptics.com with code FTLR2026 to tell ‘em i sent you!
1h 7min•Mar 13, 2026
Hayden Hawks’ Guide to Mental Toughness and Peak Performance in the Mountains

Hayden Hawks’ Guide to Mental Toughness and Peak Performance in the Mountains

When pro ultrarunner Hayden Hawks faces challenging conditions on the trails, he doesn't just endure them—he transforms them into opportunities for growth, proving that sometimes the hardest moments forge the strongest athletes. Hayden Hawks has been a professional ultra runner for 10 years competing at and winning some of the biggest races in the world. He is sponsored by HOKA, AG1, Precision Fuel and Hydration, as well as many other sponsors. He has also been a huge advocate for helping and building youth group initiatives and inspiring the younger generation around the world, most notably the Trail Fam. Hayden is also a coach with Hawks Running and Centurion Running. He is a father of 2, husband to Ashley Hawks, and loves traveling with his family and being outside as much as possible. Jon chats with Hayden about: balancing competition with being a good person and giving back gradual training progression instead of extreme volume jumps fueling runs over 90 minutes for better performance mental toughness through embracing uncomfortable mountain conditions consistency over time creates sustainable athletic careers Stay Connected: Follow Hayden: https://www.instagram.com/hawks_hayden/ “Hayden Hawks” on Strava https://trailfam.com/ https://www.hawksrunning.com/ This episode is supported by: Precision Dial your fueling in this year. Use code “LONGRUN26” for 15% off your first order at www.precisionhydration.com Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR2026 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org. AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at https://us.amazfit.com/discount/FTLR2026 and use code “FTLR2026” for 10% off Vacation Races Run where you play and chase the extraordinary. Use code “FTLR” for 15% off their half marathons, ultras, and trail fests at vacationraces.com through the end of 2026
56min•Mar 6, 2026
Pam Reed's Secrets to Conquering 100+ Ultra Marathons in Extreme Conditions

Pam Reed's Secrets to Conquering 100+ Ultra Marathons in Extreme Conditions

Legendary ultra-marathoner Pam Reed has a simple solution for people who feel tired: stop sitting and start moving. Pam Reed is an accomplished ultra-runner who has been competing since 1992. She is a hyperactive person who strives to get every moment out of every day, structuring her schedule as full as possible because she considers time the most valuable asset. Beyond racing, Reed directed the Tucson Marathon for 30 years before passing it to Jamil, believing that successful race directors must be hands-on and understand every aspect of event management. She continues racing with a full 2026 schedule and maintains her philosophy of maximizing each day while gradually accepting that recovery takes longer as she ages. Jon chats with Pam about: ultra-running discovery through tennis training and progression natural energy and ability to bounce back quickly heat and cold training strategies with specific tips Triple Crown achievement: Western States, Hard Rock, Badwater her winning mental approach Stay connected: Follow Pam: https://www.instagram.com/pamreed100/ This is episode is supported by: Skej My favorite tool to help schedule meetings. Precision Dial your fueling in this year. Use code “LONGRUN26” for 15% off your first order at www.precisionhydration.com AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at https://us.amazfit.com/discount/FTLR2026 and use code “FTLR2026” for 10% off.
50min•Feb 27, 2026
Rachel Entrekin on Grit and Breaking the 200-Mile Barrier

Rachel Entrekin on Grit and Breaking the 200-Mile Barrier

After transitioning from oncology physical therapy to full-time running, Rachel Entrekin discovered her true calling was not in conquering traditional hundred-mile races, but in pushing the boundaries of human endurance across multiple days and hundreds of miles. Rachel has been running since 2009, gradually making her way up from road 10ks to multi-day trail races. While born and raised in the southeast US, she currently resides in Colorado, where there is exactly zero humidity. Jon chats with Rachel about: her running journey from college marathons to ultramarathons the transition from physical therapy to professional running career 200-mile race strategy and mental approach at Cocodona sports nutrition partnership with Precision Fuel and Hydration philosophy on process versus outcome-focused racing goals Stay connected: Follow Rachel: https://www.instagram.com/rachel__entrekin/ Rachel’s Blog: https://blondeidiotrunning.wordpress.com/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAdGRleAPvkdJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xMjQwMjQ1NzQyODc0MTQAAacg8Fo31S7ggaU3zfdCDjsLlJYiyLYgJY33CdsPkrAAlbSiiguTikjxlNsSkg_aem_MZqdK3OHod6Qgy6-yC4ZEA Vagabond Trails TMB tour: https://www.vagabond-trails.com/tmb-rachel-entrekin?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAdGRleAPvke5leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xMjQwMjQ1NzQyODc0MTQAAaf4YWwaHMYnTW0Zrm-N4lN1TD0jl_dTVUiwIYFT_rYsVNAp8pgqd23CSj_bPw_aem_jYSHI0G1B9zMyz_Qz9VL7A This is episode is supported by: Skej My favorite tool to help schedule meetings. Precision Dial your fueling in this year. Use code “LONGRUN26” for 15% off your first order at www.precisionhydration.com Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR2026 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org. AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at https://us.amazfit.com/discount/FTLR2026 and use code “FTLR2026” for 10% off.
1h 4min•Feb 20, 2026
Shea Aquilano's Journey from Imposter Syndrome to Nike Athlete

Shea Aquilano's Journey from Imposter Syndrome to Nike Athlete

There's a common misconception in ultra running that it's all about toughness, but Shea Aquilano believes gentleness is more important. Shea currently resides in Boulder, CO and focuses on ultra-distance trail events. At 24, she is a 2x US Mountain Running team member, and pro runner for Nike ACG. Shea loves a good pickle and has a knack for rationalizing almost any experience into a good one. Jon chats with Shea about: setting intentional pre-race goals and success definitions pursuing longer trail running distances over shorter formats moving to Colorado for mountain training opportunities joining supportive running communities and trail teams maintaining joy as central motivation in competitive running Stay connected: Follow Shea: https://www.instagram.com/shea_aq/ The Trail Team: https://www.trail-team.com/ This is episode is supported by: AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at https://us.amazfit.com/discount/FTLR2026 and use code “FTLR2026” for 10% off Precision Dial your fueling in this year. Use code “LONGRUN26” for 15% off your first order at www.precisionhydration.com
41min•Feb 13, 2026
How Running Saved a Veteran’s Life: Finding Purpose in Ultras

How Running Saved a Veteran’s Life: Finding Purpose in Ultras

From suppressing emotions as a military veteran to finding freedom on Colorado trails, here’s how Jonathan Mejia discovered that running isn't just exercise, it's therapy in motion. He came to Colorado after film school when the stars aligned and he conquered his first marathon. He’s now looking to take on his first ultra in 2026. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org. Precision Dial your fueling in this year. Use code “LONGRUN26” for 15% off your first order at www.precisionhydration.com
49min•Feb 6, 2026
Ultra Running Success Over Age 40: Lauren Puretz’s High-Achieving Approach

Ultra Running Success Over Age 40: Lauren Puretz’s High-Achieving Approach

From residency training to ultramarathons - discover how Dr. Lauren Puretz balances life as a gynecologic surgeon with competing at the highest levels of trail running, including her breakthrough performance at UTMB and the mindset shifts that fuel both operating rooms and mountain peaks. Lauren Puretz, DO is a board-certified OB/GYN, elite ultrarunner, and mom of 2 based in Colorado Springs. She is the co-founder of Mountain View OB/GYN and co-host of the podcast Speaking of Labias. Outside the clinic, Lauren is intentionally making the most of her time as a competitive runner, chasing big goals, embracing challenge, and having as much fun as possible along the way. Jon chats with Lauren about: Lauren's transition from gymnastics and soccer to cross country running balancing medical career as gynecologic surgeon with ultra running training building community through persistent outreach and shared running experiences managing eating disorder recovery while fueling for endurance performance overcoming fear to compete in challenging mountain races like UTMB Stay connected: Follow Lauren: https://www.instagram.com/lauren1642/ This episode is supported by: Rocket Money Take control of your spending. Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reduce the rest with Rocket Money: RocketMoney.com/GORUN AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at http://bit.ly/4ojbflT and use code “FTLR” for 10% off.
56min•Jan 30, 2026
Erin Ton is on a Quest for Mountain Speed Records

Erin Ton is on a Quest for Mountain Speed Records

At 20,000 feet, running feels like moving through molasses… but Erin Ton has found that climbing Colorado's highest peaks in stilettos actually makes her a more thoughtful athlete. Erin was born and raised in Colorado. After graduating from Cornell University in 2020, she moved back to Colorado to pursue professional mountain running. Her primary focus is on Fastest Known Time (FKT) speed records, specializing on steep, technical terrain at high altitude. She currently resides in her van and can be found chasing records all across the American West and all across the world. Jon chats with Erin about: High altitude running challenges and training FKT (Fastest Known Time) pursuits fourteeners climbed in high heels professional athlete sponsorship journey goal of climbing all Colorado 13ers upcoming Aconcagua speed record attempt Stay connected: Follow Erin: https://www.instagram.com/erin_ton7/ Erin’s Strava: “Erin Ton” This episode is supported by: AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at http://bit.ly/4ojbflT and use code “FTLR” for 10% off. Rocket Money Take control of your spending. Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reduce the rest with Rocket Money: RocketMoney.com/GORUN
52min•Jan 23, 2026
Nick Thompson on How to Measure Running Progress

Nick Thompson on How to Measure Running Progress

What if I told you that the most brutally honest performance metric you'll ever face isn't on your smartphone, can't be faked by AI, and strips away every excuse you've ever made about what you're truly capable of? It’s called running. Nicholas Thompson is the CEO of The Atlantic, an American magazine founded in 1857, which earned the top honor for magazines, General Excellence, at the National Magazine Awards in both 2022 and 2023. In his time as CEO, the company has seen record subscriber growth. Before joining The Atlantic, he was the editor-in-chief of Wired magazine. He is also a former contributor for CBS News and has previously served as editor. He has long been a competitive runner; in 2021, he set the American record for men 45+ in the 50K race. Jon chats with Nick about: running's purity reveals personal truth and growth multitasking training with commuting and daily life breaking psychological barriers through gradual exposure how AI threatens media authenticity setting challenging goals creates transferable resilience Stay connected: Follow Nick: http://linkedin.com/in/nicholasxthompson/ https://x.com/nxthompson https://www.instagram.com/nxthompson/?hl=en Nick’s book, “The Running Ground” on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Running-Ground-Father-Simplest-Sports/dp/0593244125 This episode is supported by: Rocket Money Take control of your spending. Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reduce the rest with Rocket Money: RocketMoney.com/GORUN AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at http://bit.ly/4ojbflT and use code “FTLR” for 10% off.
43min•Jan 16, 2026
Emma Coburn’s No-BS Advice for Showing Up When Motivation Is Gone

Emma Coburn’s No-BS Advice for Showing Up When Motivation Is Gone

Whether you just won the NCAA title or you just sucked in that race… the sun comes up tomorrow, and we're going back to work in the morning. Emma Coburn is a middle-distance runner who specializes in the 3000-meters steeplechase. She’s a world champion, world silver medalist, Olympic bronze medalist, three-time Olympian and 10-time US National Champion in the steeplechase. Her approach to training and competition emphasizes consistency, discipline, and focusing on process over outcomes. She believes that "belief comes from working hard" and executing training day-to-day rather than relying on hope alone. Her philosophy is grounded in the idea that "you can't just hope your way to the Olympics" but must work consistently despite setbacks. Jon chats with Emma about: resilience through discipline and routine food culture and fueling without restriction mental strategies for race performance building sustainable habits for long-term success moving forward after setbacks and losses Stay connected: Follow Emma: https://www.instagram.com/emmacoburn/ Emma’s Website: https://emmacoburn.com/ This episode is supported by: AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at http://bit.ly/4ojbflT and use code “FTLR” for 10% off. Rocket Money Take control of your spending. Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reduce the rest with Rocket Money: RocketMoney.com/GORUN
51min•Jan 9, 2026
From Gambling Addiction to Ultra Marathons: How Running Saved Terence Gerchberg

From Gambling Addiction to Ultra Marathons: How Running Saved Terence Gerchberg

Success in running often comes from hitting rock bottom. This was the case for Terence Gerchberg, who transformed his gambling addiction into a mission to help others find their footing, one mile at a time. In the words of Terence, “Running changed and saved my life. Today, I have the privilege of helping others do the same through Back on My Feet, a national nonprofit that transforms the lives of those experiencing homelessness and addiction through the power of running and community.” Jon chats with Terence about: overcoming gambling addiction through running Back on My Feet nonprofit mission ultra running and Leadville race attempts community support in running groups finding purpose through helping others his definition of success (not money) Stay connected: Follow Terence: https://www.instagram.com/coachamazing/ Back on My Feet: Backonmyfeet.org This episode is supported by: Rocket Money Take control of your spending. Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reduce the rest with Rocket Money: RocketMoney.com/GORUN. RACE Cancer Let's hold each other accountable and create momentum together in the new year by committing to at least one mile a day through RACE Cancer's Winter Challenge. Go to app.winterchallenge.org and use code “FTLR” and join our team!
53min•Jan 2, 2026
Don’t Fall for Sports Nutrition Myths: Stevie Lyn Smith on How to ACTUALLY Fuel for Your Next Race

Don’t Fall for Sports Nutrition Myths: Stevie Lyn Smith on How to ACTUALLY Fuel for Your Next Race

If you're taking three-hour naps after long runs or showing up to marathons with just three gels, this episode will change how you think about fueling. Stevie Lyn Smith is a Registered Dietitian and avid endurance athlete. As a Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics she combines her passion for endurance athletics with evidence-based nutrition practices to help individuals reach their health and performance goals. As an ultra-endurance athlete with 10 Ironman finishes under her belt, she understands firsthand the crucial role nutrition plays in both performance and everyday life. When she’s not swimming, biking, or running you can find her outside exploring new trails with her dog or trying new recipes in her kitchen. All apparel is backed by a 5 year guarantee, so you know it’s meant to last! PUMA: Get your pair at your local Fleet Feet or your favorite local running shop! AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at http://bit.ly/4ojbflT and use code “FTLR” for 10% off. Rocket Money Take control of your spending. Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reduce the rest with Rocket Money: RocketMoney.com/GORUN.
1h 4min•Dec 26, 2025
Joe Corcione’s Exact Formula for Mental Toughness and Overcoming Limitations

Joe Corcione’s Exact Formula for Mental Toughness and Overcoming Limitations

From a hesitant podcaster to coaching 200+ athletes in two years, Joe Corcione reveals why indecision kills more dreams than lack of knowledge, and how one simple rule changed everything. Joe Corcione is an Ultrarunning Coach, Ultrarunner, Host of The Everyday Ultra Podcast, and CEO of Everyday Ultra Coaching. From going from zero running background to placing top 10 at Tahoe 200 and top 10 at Javelina Jundred 100 miler, along with completing over 20+ ultras, Joe's mission is to help others become the best ultrarunners they can be; no matter where they are starting from. PUMA: Get your pair at your local Fleet Feet or your favorite local running shop! Janji: Use code “FTLR” at checkout when shopping at janji.com for 10% off your order and see why Janji is the go-to for runners who want performance gear made to explore. All apparel is backed by a 5 year guarantee, so you know it’s meant to last! Rocket Money Take control of your spending. Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reduce the rest with Rocket Money: RocketMoney.com/GORUN
59min•Dec 19, 2025
How Mike Wardian Runs the World While Running a Business

How Mike Wardian Runs the World While Running a Business

What do you get when you cross a full-time international ship broker, a world-class endurance athlete, and a dad who's planning to row across the Atlantic? You get Mike Wardian. Today we're diving into how he manages to excel at everything while never losing his curiosity for the next adventure. Mike Wardian is a multifaceted endurance athlete who describes himself as a husband, father, international ship broker, business owner, full-time professional athlete and a vegan adventurer. Mike has been a sponsored athlete since 2002, for 23 years, and has worked with both endemic running brands and non-endemic sponsors like T-Mobile, with whom he has partnered since 2017. His extensive travel through running has taken his family to 33 countries across all seven continents, providing his two sons Pierce (18) and Grant (16) with extraordinary global experiences. Mike’s adventurous spirit extends far beyond traditional racing. He has completed numerous ambitious projects including seven marathons in seven continents in seven days, running across the country, and completing the Appalachian Trail. Recently, he set a record in the Northern Virginia Senior Olympics, competing in 45 events over three weeks and winning 40 medals in activities ranging from running events to Scrabble, swimming, pickleball, and even golf. He's already planning his next major challenge: rowing 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean in 2027. Jon chats with Mike about: his career of running 180 marathons and 143 ultra marathons how he races 40-50 times per year running seven marathons in seven continents in seven days "invisible training" concept which minimizes impact on family life cultural observations and travel tips Stay connected: Follow Mike: https://www.instagram.com/mikewardian/ https://www.mikewardian.com/ This episode is supported by: Janji: Use code “FTLR” at checkout when shopping at janji.com for 10% off your order and see why Janji is the go-to for runners who want performance gear made to explore. All apparel is backed by a 5 year guarantee, so you know it’s meant to last! AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at http://bit.ly/4ojbflT and use code “FTLR” for 10% off. Tifosi Optics: Fantastic sunglasses for every type of run. Anti-bounce fit, shatterproof, and scratch resistant. Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reduce the rest with Rocket Money: RocketMoney.com/GORUN
56min•Dec 12, 2025
The Science Behind Travel Performance and Health Optimization with FlyKitt Founder, Andrew Herr

The Science Behind Travel Performance and Health Optimization with FlyKitt Founder, Andrew Herr

What if I told you that 93% of people can travel anywhere in the world with minimal to no jet lag - and it has nothing to do with melatonin or light therapy? Andrew is the Founder of FlyKitt, a breakthrough travel protocol built for high performers from the battlefield to the boardroom, who demand peak output under any condition. Whether leading a team, competing at the highest level, or making critical decisions, showing up sharp post-flight is non-negotiable. But out of the 10 million+ people who fly daily, few know the kind of toll it takes on the body. Jet lag, inflammation, dehydration, gut issues, joint pain, poor metabolism, brain fog — the risk is real and long-lasting. Jon chats with Andrew about: how travel affects health and athletic performance and can increase inflammation the correct way to deal with jet lag the challenges of delivering personalized health insights at scale specific supplements and nutrients used to combat travel-related inflammation compression socks, nerve stimulators, and other tools to improve travel experience Stay connected: Follow Andrew: https://www.instagram.com/andrewherrbio/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-herr/ FlyKitt: https://flykitt.com/ This episode is supported by: Eternal: Eternal is a performance health company for runners, endurance athletes, and anyone serious about their training. Their in-depth, two-hour physicals cover metabolic testing, mobility assessments, bloodwork, and a full movement analysis — all with expert guidance to keep you healthy and performing your best. Head to eternal.co and use the Black Friday offer while it’s live. That’s 25% off all plans. Your future self is going to be very happy you did this, and feel free to reach out to me directly with any questions! AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at http://bit.ly/4ojbflT and use code “FTLR” for 10% off. Janji: Use code “FTLR” at checkout when shopping at janji.com for 10% off your order and see why Janji is the go-to for runners who want performance gear made to explore. All apparel is backed by a 5 year guarantee, so you know it’s meant to last!
44min•Dec 5, 2025
How Jenn Lichter Became a Trail Running Powerhouse

How Jenn Lichter Became a Trail Running Powerhouse

From a Colombian orphanage to professional trail running champion, Jenn Lichter's story proves that sometimes the hardest journeys lead to the most extraordinary destinations. Jenn Lichter is a 29-year-old professional trail runner who competes primarily in distances ranging from marathon to 50-mile races. Born in Bogota, Colombia, she grew up in an orphanage before being adopted at nine years old and moving to La Crosse, Wisconsin. Her trail running career took off after working as a hiking guide at Glacier National Park, where she discovered her passion for mountain running during her off days. In September 2021, she competed in The Rut, her first major trail race, which led to her being discovered by The North Face team manager Esther. She signed with The North Face in 2022 and has been with the brand since. Lichter has achieved significant success in her professional career, winning races like Broken Arrow (setting a course record in 2022) and Speedgoat, where she placed second after taking a wrong turn. She won the 2024 Broken Arrow 46K and notably won a beer mile competition between Broken Arrow and Western States that same year. Beyond running, Lichter identifies as an artist, describing art as her "first true love". She enjoys baking, cooking, gardening, and DIY projects. Currently, Lichter is preparing to debut her first 100K race at Black Canyon, marking a step up from her established success in the 50K distance. She is sponsored by The North Face and Tailwind Nutrition and works with agent Kelly Newlon to manage her professional career. Jon chats with Jenn about: victories at Broken Arrow and other races how Jenn handles suffering and discomfort during races by honoring past training efforts the role of curiosity in Jenn's approach to running and exploration recovery from eating disorders and partnership with Tailwind nutrition approach to authentic brand partnerships and social media presence Stay connected: Follow Jenn: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferlichter/ This episode is supported by: Tifosi Optics: Fantastic sunglasses for every type of run. Anti-bounce fit, shatterproof, and scratch resistant. Janji: Use code “FTLR” at checkout when shopping at janji.com for 10% off your order and see why Janji is the go-to for runners who want performance gear made to explore. All apparel is backed by a 5 year guarantee, so you know it’s meant to last!
1h 10min•Nov 28, 2025
Ryan Montgomery on Unlocking a Mind, Body, and Environmental Connection Through Professional Running

Ryan Montgomery on Unlocking a Mind, Body, and Environmental Connection Through Professional Running

While most professional athletes choose between excellence and everything else, what happens when you refuse to pick just one lane? Ryan Montgomery’s impressive resume includes over 50-60 ultra marathons, with 17-18 of those being 100-mile events, demonstrating their particular affinity for the longest distances the sport offers. Currently balancing a professional running career with graduate studies in strategic sales management, Ryan exemplifies the modern multi-dimensional athlete. He's also a Team Janji athlete and passionate advocate for inclusivity in trail running, organizing annual retreats for the queer running community. Jon chats with Ryan about: revisiting Ryan's running journey and ultra marathons mind-body connection in trail running managing injuries and recovery strategies balancing multiple professional roles successfully LGBTQ+ advocacy in running community Stay connected: Follow Ryan: https://www.instagram.com/ultra.ryan/ This episode is supported by: PUMA: Get your pair at your local Fleet Feet or your favorite local running shop! Janji: Use code “FTLR” at checkout when shopping at janji.com for 10% off your order and see why Janji is the go-to for runners who want performance gear made to explore. All apparel is backed by a 5 year guarantee, so you know it’s meant to last! AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at http://bit.ly/4ojbflT and use code “FTLR” for 10% off. Tailwind: Fueling shouldn’t be complicated. Tailwind offers all-in-one nutrition that’s easy to digest, gut-friendly, and made by athletes, for athletes. Use code FTLR20 for 20% off your first order here.
57min•Nov 21, 2025
Aisha Praught Leer’s Three Key Elements of Creating a High-Performing Team

Aisha Praught Leer’s Three Key Elements of Creating a High-Performing Team

From cheerleader to two-time Olympian - discover the 'secret sauce' that transformed an accidental runner into a world champion. Aisha Praught Leer is a two-time Olympian and holds seven national records for Jamaica, most notably as a gold medalist in the steeplechase at the 2018 Commonwealth Games. She is a founding member of Team Boss in Boulder, CO, and a community organizer, an advocate for the world's best athletes as a member of the World Athletics' Athletes Commission, and works full-time in tech. Jon chats with Aisha about: having a process vs. outcome focus the three key elements of creating high-performing teams training and racing with elite athletes like Emma Coburn and Usain Bolt the transition to corporate work (making 150 cold calls per week) training in altitude and the local running community in Boulder Stay connected: Follow Aisha: https://www.instagram.com/aishapraughtleer/ This episode is supported by: Janji: Use code “FTLR” at checkout when shopping at janji.com for 10% off your order and see why Janji is the go-to for runners who want performance gear made to explore. All apparel is backed by a 5 year guarantee, so you know it’s meant to last! AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at http://bit.ly/4ojbflT and use code “FTLR” for 10% off. Tifosi Optics: Fantastic sunglasses for every type of run. Anti-bounce fit, shatterproof, and scratch resistant. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org. For November: Use code FTLR 2026 for 10% off any race for 2026. You’re not going to want to miss Boulderthon in 2026!
38min•Nov 14, 2025
Amanda Brooks on Coaching the Middle Pack: Turning Running Punishment into Purpose

Amanda Brooks on Coaching the Middle Pack: Turning Running Punishment into Purpose

From faking knee pain to avoid running to coaching over 1,000 runners - Amanda Brooks knows exactly what it's like to be in the middle of the pack, because that's where most of us actually are. Amanda Brooks has been a running coach for over 13 years, working with thousands of runners to find more enjoyment in the process. She’s also known for the thousands of reviews on her site and her highly rated book, "Run to the Finish," geared towards the middle of the pack. Jon chats with Amanda about: when do you become a “real” runner? finding motivation to run when you’ve lost it (not race goals) time management strategies when running with a full time job stereotypes that runners NEED to break what Amanda considers when trying a new shoe industry and shoe predictions for 2026 Stay connected: Follow Amanda: instagram.com/runtothefinish www.runtothefinish.com Her Book, “Run to the Finish:” https://a.co/d/i9rM7OF This episode is supported by: PUMA: Get your pair at your local Fleet Feet or your favorite local running shop! Tifosi Optics: Fantastic sunglasses for every type of run. Anti-bounce fit, shatterproof, and scratch resistant. All apparel is backed by a 5 year guarantee, so you know it’s meant to last! AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at http://bit.ly/4ojbflT and use code “FTLR” for 10% off.
57min•Nov 7, 2025
Sara Vaughn on Boulder Living, Marathon PRs, and Running for Something Bigger

Sara Vaughn on Boulder Living, Marathon PRs, and Running for Something Bigger

At 35, Sara Vaughn was just getting started—landing her first professional contract and proving that sometimes the best chapters come when you're brave enough to rewrite the story. Sara Vaughn is mom of 4, placed 6th in the NYC Marathon in 2024, is a top American and 2X top 10 at the Chicago Marathon. Jon chats with Sara about: ​living the fullest Boulder lifestyle ​her marathon training structure ​the winning mindset to have at the start line ​post-race recovery techniques ​the go-to PUMA shoes that have lead to PRs Stay connected: Follow Sara: https://www.instagram.com/saravaughn_realtor/ https://www.instagram.com/vaughnchildcarefund/ This episode is supported by: PUMA: Get your pair at your local Fleet Feet or your favorite local running shop! Janji: Use code “FTLR” at checkout when shopping at janji.com for 10% off your order and see why Janji is the go-to for runners who want performance gear made to explore. All apparel is backed by a 5 year guarantee, so you know it’s meant to last! Eternal: Eternal is a performance health company for runners, endurance, and anyone serious about their training, with expert guidance to keep you healthy and performing your best. AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at http://bit.ly/4ojbflT and use code “FTLR” for 10% off. Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR2026 for 10% off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.
35min•Oct 31, 2025
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