Advertise on podcast: For The Long Run: Exploring the Why Behind Running

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. Jonathan talks about: Running as freedom and a therapeutic escape His military background influencing mental health journey What inspired developing a consistent running habit The trail running community Building ultramarathon goals Stay connected: Follow Jonathan Mejia: https://www.instagram.com/goodvibesjon/ Team RWB: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-set-your-next-big-hairy-audacious-goal-with/id1453616436?1=1000676194617 This is episode is supported by: Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. 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

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.

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

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.

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

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!

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. Jon chats with Stevie about: changes in sports nutrition over the past 8 years pre-run fueling and arguments against fasted training Stevie's personal race day fueling strategy for her Buffalo Marathon caffeine's role as a performance tool (including dosage recommendations) the importance of blood testing for endurance athletes to catch issues early the role of qualified healthcare providers in interpreting results for athletes Stay connected: Follow Stevie: https://www.instagram.com/stevielynlyn/ Stevie’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Up-Womans-Winning-Nutrition/dp/1068830298/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1USHPG8HQ8HEM&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.aDxH8aRMat-Bi1wNFTeV6g.jMIoFHsW2RjNyV9ZBGGyKYQ-9-CKEBmvuLkHnUn9P_E&dib_tag=se&keywords=stevie+lyn+nutrition&qid=1760971348&sprefix=stevie+lyn+nutritio%2Caps%2C167&sr=8-2 Stevie’s Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-fuel-with-sls/id1746341651 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! 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.

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. Jon chats with Joe about: the "just start" philosophy business growth and Everyday Ultra race selection for mental toughness his upcoming Desert Peak Ultra race how setting limits in life is holding you back Stay connected: Follow Joe: https://www.instagram.com/joecorcione/ Everyday Ultra Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-ultra/id1600327047 Everyday Ultra Coaching: theeverydayultra.com Desert Peak Ultra: desertpeakultra.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. 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

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. Get 20% off when you use this link! Rocket Money Take control of your spending. Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reduce the rest with Rocket Money: RocketMoney.com/GORUN

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!

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. Get 20% off when you use this link! 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!

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.

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. Get 20% off when you use this link! Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. 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!

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. Get 20% off when you use this link! 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.

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.