Hurdle with Emily Abbate

I am valuable. I am important. Today, we’re practicing affirmations and working through a few exercises that reinforce your sense of self-worth. This week’s #hurdlemoment hinges on a quote that I read not all that long ago: “Don’t beg people to sit at the table with you.” Plain and simple: We all deserve to feel worthy, and today I’m chatting about how to better invest your time in the scenarios and individuals that build you up. Because once you own your worth, you're ready to vibrate at a higher frequency. SOCIAL @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Beam | Head to beamtlc.com to get 15 percent off your purchase using the code “HURDLE” at checkout.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Season two, episode one! Latoya Shauntay Snell calls herself a “recovering self defeatist.” Today, she’s thriving as a freelance chef, sponsored athlete, and writer. In episode 90, the Brooklyn native tells me about how she found a life drenched in sweat, leaving behind her days as an alcoholic in favor of running. We also chat about what it was like when she became viral sensation after speaking out against hecklers at the 2017 New York City Marathon, running through the emotional pain of multiple miscarriages, and how she handles unwelcome criticism that comes with being such a public person. SOCIAL @iamlshauntay @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HURDLE! Two years ago, Hurdle hit iTunes. In this combo anniversary/new year's episode, I’m giddily recapping eight of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned from the past 365 days behind the microphone, including some gems from fan-favorites including Joe Holder, Dorothy Beal, Tia-Claire Toomey, and more. A huge, huge thank you to all of the listeners, guests, and everyone else who helped to make my second year as a podcaster one for the charts (literally).  SOCIAL @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Take a quick peak at Robin Arzon’s Instagram, @robinnyc. It’s hard to imagine a time when activity wasn’t a part of her everyday life. After a near-death experience at age 20 when Arzon was held hostage at gunpoint in New York City’s East Village, she leaned into movement and running for the first time to help her process the trauma. Soon enough, the then-lawyer turned away from her conventional 9-to-5 with hopes to turn her passion for sweat into her career. That’s when she found Peloton.  Today, she’s the brand’s Vice President of Fitness Programing and Head Instructor, also author of the 2016 book Shut Up and Run, and a 26-time marathoner. In this repost of episode 28, the Adidas global brand ambassador gets honest about how tough times have shaped her perspective and helped her home in on her inner swagger. She also offers essential, actionable advice for runners of all levels on race day best practices and tips on how to take their stride to a whole new level. SOCIAL @robinnyc @onepeloton @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. WHOOP | Head to whoop.com to get a free WHOOP band plus 15 percent off any membership by entering the code "hurdle" at checkout.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Christmas morning car accident was the #hurdlemoment that changed Andy Puddicombe’s life forever. Looking to process sudden loss, he went to Asia to study as a Buddhist monk. After 10 years of practice, Puddicombe wanted to help others understand the benefits of meditation. That’s when he met co-founder Rich Pierson, and Headspace was born. What once started as an events company, Headspace now has more than 30 million users and 1 million paid subscribers. In episode 30, we dive into the endless benefits of meditation, how to shift our perspective on failure in life, the exciting newly developed Headspace Health programming coming in 2020, and finish things off with an easy, quick meditation perfect for beginners.  SOCIAL @headspace @andypuddicombe @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. WHOOP | Head to whoop.com to get a free WHOOP band plus 15 percent off any membership by entering the code "hurdle" at checkout.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I did something last week that really made me think. This is that thing. In today's #hurdlemoment, I'm chatting all about what I'm letting go of in the new year. After you listen to this episode, hit me up on Instagram @emilyabbate or @hurdlepodcast, and share with me what it is that you want to release in 2020.  SOCIAL @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sit down next to Katie Sturino, and you’ll instantly feel like you’ve got a new best friend. The body positivity advocate, Megababe founder, and creator of the blog The 12ish Style has a way about her that’s entirely charming, which is no wonder why 419K people are following her on social media. In episode 87, we chat about the divorce #hurdlemoment from a few years ago that lead to a life-changing weight gain. Sturino tells me about how the extra pounds made her feel more like herself, comfortable in her own body, and eventually lead her to start the #makemysize movement. We also chat about how Megababe came to be, what excites her right now and for the new year ahead, and what really goes down in the DMs. SOCIAL @katiesturino @dogmeetsworld @megababe @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. WHOOP | Head to whoop.com to get a free WHOOP band plus 15 percent off any membership by entering the code "hurdle" at checkout.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I ask it to my guests week after week, and for this episode — I'm answering the question myself. The idea came from a lot of time spent reflecting on a recent trip away in Hawaii. TBH, the question provokes a lot of feelings, and makes me realize that I'm just a woman trying to her best self every single day. The goal for this week's #hurdlemoment? To be honest, and to encourage you to be honest, too. After listening, try the exercise I talk about today yourself, and then share with me on Instagram how it makes you feel.  SOCIAL @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I could listen to Knox Robinson talk for a while, which is no wonder why this is my longest Hurdle to date. The Brooklyn resident writer and runner has his fair share of how-did-that-even-happen stories, from his days logging miles in Ethiopia with Mo Farah and running with Eliud Kipchoge in Kenya to heading up Fader Magazine and writing Kanye West’s first cover article. Upon sitting down with the father-of-two and run coach, I saw a whole other side of him that perhaps his 27.6K Instagram followers don’t often catch.  In episode 86, the Nike+ Run Club founding coach talks to me about his beginnings as a runner growing up in San Diego, and how his passions landed him running at a collegiate level at Wake Forest. He gets really honest about the #hurdlemoment that made him quit the sport for 10+ years, and the life-changing event that reunited him with his biggest passion. We talk about everything from impossible training tactics and what it felt like to be one of the top 100 male finishers in the NYC Marathon (twice) to his best advice for anyone new to lacing up. SOCIAL @firstrun @blackrosesnyc @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. WHOOP | Head to whoop.com to get a free WHOOP band plus 15 percent off any membership by entering the code "hurdle" at checkout.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's the holidays, which means a whole lot of festivities (wahoo!). With festivities, come food, drink, and a shift in your typical routine. Listen, this stuff comes around once a year. And while you certainly don't need to go for a run or work out to "earn" a meal (I'll take seconds of apple pie, please), it's OK to admit that when you may have overindulged a little bit. Maybe you're already there. Maybe not. Regardless, I'm here to tell you it's OK to want to feel better post-celebrations. There's nothing wrong with admitting you're excited to get back to your early morning sweat sessions or post-work yoga classes. In today's #HURDLEMOMENT, I'm helping you out with some actionable strategies on how to get back to a place where you feel better — because that's what's important. I offer up the tips that have worked for me in the past, with hopes that you feel less alone If you're hoping to make a shift. SOCIAL @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The biggest lesson I was reminded of talking to The North Face’s Vice President of Global Product Kelly Cortina? You have to put your oxygen mask on first before you can help others. That, and there’s true value in being vulnerable. Excited to bring you my conversation with the Connecticut native in episode 85 of Hurdle, where she gives me the lowdown on her career path — starting at Abercrombie & Fitch and making her way to TNF. We talk about the difficult #hurdlemoment of relocating her family (including her two little boys) not once, but twice, within one year, and how she manages to give back to herself when she feels super alone or stressed. Plus, she talks about what it’s like to be one of the few women in a management position at TNF, and what she hopes to instill in her team as they brave this new chapter in the Mile High City. SOCIAL @thenorthface @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. WHOOP | Head to whoop.com to get a free WHOOP band plus 15 percent off any membership by entering the code "hurdle" at checkout.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's chilly out there! On today's #hurdlemoment, I'm dishing with Nike+ run coach Jes Woods about how to best-handle running come the cooler months. We talk about everything from best practices to what you should be wearing (plus—what you shouldn't), as well as when is the appropriate time to trade in outdoor miles for a date with the tread. Plus, our top gear picks! SOCIAL @jeslynnyc @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE The North Face Futurelight Jacket Lululemon Down for It All Vest Lululemon Flurry Up Tight Nike Pegasus Shield Rapha Cycling Gloves Runner's World "What to Wear Running" Calculator See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This was some of the most fun I’ve had recording an episode of Hurdle. This week, I’m sitting down with Brendan Dunne, a Deputy Editor at Complex, co-host of the wildly popular weekly talk show Full Size Run, and a good friend of mine. In episode 84, he tells me how he managed to make a career creating content about sneakers (he’s got 60 pairs alone at his desk, nevertheless his Brooklyn apartment). We also chat about the circumstances that inspired him to lace up and become a runner, and how falling in love with the sport changed his life for the better. Recently adding “marathoner “ to his resume, Dunne shares with me his biggest takeaways from his first 26.2 as well as why he’s super proud of his race despite it not going as planned.  And no, this episode is NOT sponsored by Nike, but it’s safe to say he mentions the Swoosh at least 20 times throughout our session. SOCIAL @brendandunne @fullsizerunshow @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. WHOOP | Head to whoop.com to get a free WHOOP band plus 15 percent off any membership by entering the code "hurdle" at checkout. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Music and Strategy (MAS)  | Huge thank you to my friends at MAS for the studio space. Give them a peak over on Instagram. Strong New York | Local to New York City? Get your tickets for the December 15 fitness festival here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This feels awkward. But, it also feels necessary. In today's #hurdlemoment., I'm talking about something that a lot of people don't want to, and that's mental health. Just over a month ago, at age 31, I finally started going to speak to a therapist. It's without-a-doubt, the biggest investment (financially, for sure) that I've ever made in myself, and it feels really really special. I give you the lowdown on what took me so long, how I found the right practitioner for me, and the awakening piece of advice that she gave me in my first session that I'll carry with me forever. SOCIAL @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nina Williams didn’t exactly have a smooth start to her climbing career. At age 13, she felt an intense, overwhelming pressure to win. That, plus a lack of confidence, lead her to cheat in a series of climbing competitions. She reflects on the #hurdlemoment of getting caught as “lucky,” saying that she wouldn't be the climber she is today if she had stayed in that dark place. In episode 83, the fan of highball bouldering talks about how she moved forward and the beautiful lessons she learned about self-doubt and failure in the process. We also chat about how she musters up the courage to climb 40- and 50-foot rocks without a rope, how climbing grades work, and the admirable way she shoves fear to the side to overcome big challenges. Huge thanks to The North Face for connecting us! SOCIAL @sheneenagins @thenorthface @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. WHOOP | Head to whoop.com to get a free WHOOP band plus 15 percent off any membership by entering the code "hurdle" at checkout.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Robin Arzon. Jaclyn Johnson. Lauren Abedini. D’ana Nuñez. To say that these four women are inspirational would be a total understatement. If you’re in a rut. If you’re in the middle of trying to make a big decision. If you’re starting something new. Maybe, you’re just commuting on the subway. Wherever you happen to be when you listen to this episode, prepare to be motivated. I sat down with these four ladies with the help of ROAR Organic to chat all things bossing up. We chat about everything from how they got their starts to the importance of networking; their best tips for aspiring entrepreneurs and overcoming major challenges. This is an episode you don’t want to miss, and definitely share it with a friend. SOCIAL @roarorganic @robinnyc @jaclynrjohnson @iamkittens @itscovl MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE | Roar OrganicSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“The relationship you have with yourself is the longest relationship you’ll ever have; make it a good one.” To say this episode with runner Dorothy Beal is special would be a total understatement. With more than 75,000 people following along with her day-to-day body positive insights on Instagram as @mileposts, it’s difficult for the Virginia-born RRCA and USATF-certified run coach to remember a time when the sport wasn’t a part of her everyday life. In episode 82, the mother of three talks to me about the #hurdlemoment she went through during her junior year of college, where she realized that social anxiety and an affinity for drinking were contributing to weight gain and a negative self-image. After braving the scale and seeing a number that frightened her, she had a heart-to-heart with her parents who offered to help her get healthy and foot the bill on some essentials, like a nice pair of shoes and fees for a local road race.  After that? In 2003 she ran her first marathon, and now at 44 total — the sport has forever changed her for the better. We talk about the moment she started blogging about her journey at mile-posts.com, the rise of @ihavearunnersbody and #irunthisbody, and how her community impacts her on the regular. Beal gets super honest about her toughest days, and offers up helpful advice for running newbies and veterans alike. SOCIAL @mileposts @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. WHOOP | Head to whoop.com to get a free WHOOP band plus 15 percent off any membership by entering the code "hurdle" at checkout.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Well this was pretty fun! Last week, I had the pleasure of sitting down live with three other female rockstar podcasters, including Tina Muir (Running for Real), Angie Spencer (Marathon Training Academy), and Carrie Tollefson (C Tolle Run). We shared a slew of laughs and chatted all things podcasting and marathoning, how we got in to both, and the myriad of lessons we've picked up along the way on everything from racing nutrition to how to handle total "failures." Huge thanks to UCAN for bringing us together in honor of the New York City Marathon. SOCIAL @hurdlepodcast @tinamuir88 @marathonacademy @carrie_tollefson @genucan OFFERS UCAN | Hurdlers save 15% on your order with code "HURDLE" at generationucan.com/shop; Check out the starter packs if you've never tried UCAN!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spoiler alert: This may be one of my favorite episodes to date. When Charlie Dark (@daddydarkrdc) started running, he was in a bad place. Dropped by his record label, the DJ and poet was teaching a poetry and creative writing class in east London and had recently lost a friend of his. It began under the cover of darkness. Between 1 and 3 a.m., he’d leave the recording studio in the early hours of the morning and run home. “I didn’t want anyone to see me. I didn’t need anyone to watch me fail.” Within a year’s time, he had shared his love for the sport with friends. Every Friday night, they’d link up to run a single mile. Soon after this #hurdlemoment, Run Dem Crew was born. Currently at more than 500 strong, Dark says that co-founding the collective gave him new purpose. “We’re changing lives.” In episode 81 — recorded live at the Lululemon Re:Pair Lab — we’re chatting everything from how to defeat imposter syndrome to the highs and lows of conquering the marathon distance. Plus, following your true passion and the power of running culture. SOCIAL @daddydarkrdc @run.dem.crew @lululemon @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. WHOOP | Head to whoop.com to get a free WHOOP band plus 15 percent off any membership by entering the code "hurdle" at checkout.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let's. GO! Would you expect anything else from me this week? I've run it four times, after all. In today's #hurdlemoment, I'm offering up some tricks to tackling the November 3 #NYCMarathon. From how to handle the starting village to whether or not runners should really be freaking out about the hills — this is the rundown you've been waiting for.  SOCIAL @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Call me G,” was the first thing Gilad Jacobs told me when I met him, and that’s pretty indicative of the kind of guy he is. Personable. Friendly. Also — hardworking. For almost eight years now, Jacobs has been the CEO of Boston-based recovery favorite NormaTec — best known for their Pulse 2.0 Recovery system, which hooks up to the big compression boots you see everywhere from NFL sidelines to the local physical therapist’s office. In episode 80, he talks to me about his late mother — an MD and bio engineer who started the company — and the special relationship they had. He gets honest about the #hurdlemoment of losing her, and how that changed his life forever both personally and professionally. We also touch on things like navigating being “not-so popular,” and — of course — the benefits of compression. SOCIAL @ntrecovery @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. WHOOP | Head to whoop.com to get a free WHOOP band plus 15 percent off any membership by entering the code "hurdle" at checkout. EVENTS Live Hurdle with Charlie Dark, October 30, 2019 [link] UCAN Marathon Stories, November 1, 2019 [link]See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Now what? It’s the inevitable question we all ask ourselves after we complete any race — whether it’s a 5K or a marathon. Often times, crossing that finish line is a gateway to all sorts of feelings, many of them difficult to handle. In today’s #hurdlemoment, I talk about what I call the “post-marathon blues” (PMB). Those hard-to-handle emotions that come once you’ve tackled your big crazy goal, often associated sentences like “I can’t stop eating” and “I feel like I have no purpose now.” I touch on different strategies you can use to manage PMB, and the best way to proceed to come out on the other side a more productive, happier person. SOCIAL @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lisa Hayim, MS, RD, is a breath of fresh air. The registered dietician and founder of The Well Necessities shoots it straight and isn’t afraid to speak candidly about the journey that’s brought her to where she is today. In episode 79, she opens up about dealing with disordered eating herself when she was younger, and the jarring #hurdlemoment that had her questioning the way she speaks to her audience as a professional. We also chat easy strategies to implement into your regular routine that can clean up your diet, and she offers up essential advice for anyone who’s willing to be open to the masses on social media. SOCIAL @thewellnecessities @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. WHOOP | Head to whoop.com to get a free WHOOP band plus 15 percent off any membership by entering the code "hurdle" at checkout. EVENTS Live Hurdle with Charlie Dark, October 30, 2019 [link] UCAN Marathon Stories, November 1, 2019 [link]See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I am a 3:28:08 marathoner. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d be saying that sentence. In today’s #hurdlemoment — a recap of last weekend’s Chicago Marathon — I give the rundown on how the 21:08 PR happened, from the prep and what I did differently for my eight marathon to how I got my mind right walking to the starting line. I get emotional (surprise) reflecting on the highs and lows of the race, and talk about what’s next for me (plus, what’s not). SOCIAL @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE @mypowerdot @theragun See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The CrossFit Open is here, which means now is the perfect time to bring you my conversation with Katrin Davidsdottir. The Iceland native got into CrossFit because her mom thought that she’d be good at it. Fast forward two years, and she was already competing on an international stage at the CrossFit Games in 2012. Now, she’s a 2x Games champion, but she’s also had her fair share of hardships along the way. In episode 78, we talk about the single event that changed the course of her career as an athlete — a #hurdlemoment that some may see as a failure, but she viewed otherwise. I praise her for her optimistic, opportunistic attitude, and we talk about how identifying your values is the first step to success in any endeavor. She also shares what she eats in a typical day, as well as the motivational tool she uses to get her through the hardest rep. Huge thanks to Ascent Protein for the connect. SOCIAL @katrintanja @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. WHOOP | Head to whoop.com to get a free WHOOP band plus 15 percent off any membership by entering the code "hurdle" at checkout. HEARD IN THIS EPISODE  Music And Strategy is a creative music company for brands and agencies.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What should I eat when I’m training? What about the night before a race? What about DURING? Plain and simple: This episode has been a long time coming. In this week’s #hurdlemoment, I sit down with registered dietitian and nutritionist Keri Glassman. She gives us the lowdown on all the things runners need to know about fuel, touching on topics from carbo-loading to energy gels. Plus: What’s up with people giving up alcohol during training and is that post-race burger and a beer OK? Take a breath; we’ve got you covered. SOCIAL @nutritiouslifeofficial @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ariana Grande. Charlie Puth. Jessica Simpson. Harley Pasternak’s lengthy list of celebrity clientele is impressive (total understatement). But long before Pasternak was training A-listers and working with big-name brands like Reebok, Propel, Four Seasons, and more — he thought he wanted to be a doctor. In episode 77, we chat about the frightening experience that made him change his major back in college, and how he started lecturing about performance enhancing substances at just 19 years old. We also talk about something that he really struggled with until recently, and that was intense sugar cravings He tells me about a recent #hurdlemoment involving one-too-many chocolate chip cookies that inspired him to create an essential tool, an all-natural mint called Sweetkick. Trust me: Pasternak’s got a lot of information to give. This is one episode you don’t want to miss. SOCIAL @harleypasternak @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. WHOOP | Head to whoop.com to get a free WHOOP band plus 15 percent off any membership by entering the code "hurdle" at checkout. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE SweetKickSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recovery for many athletes — runners included — is a lot like warming up or cooling down. Most of us know the benefits of it, but many don’t take the time to put in the real work. Fact is, there are a lot of things we can do to give back to our bodies, and doing them can make a major difference. For this week’s #hurdlemoment, I sit down with Dan Giordano, DPT, CSCS, and co-founder of Bespoke Treatments, to chat all things recovery. From foam rolling and percussive therapy to cold water immersion and nutrition, we demystify it all in hopes to give all types of athletes the knowledge they need to rest up and get back out there. Plus, Giordano has some serious thoughts about cryotherapy that you've gotta hear.  SOCIAL @dangiordanodpt @bespoketreatments @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE  Bespoke has a lot of great instructional videos for proper movement and foam rolling strategies. Check them out, here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For four years, Brittany Driscoll spent her time learning everything she could from Alli Webb as the vice president of marketing at Drybar, taking the company from $30M to more than $100M. Now, she’s helping launch the brand’s newest concept — Squeeze, the DryBar for massages where treatments cost between $39 and $129, depending on the length of the session, which can run between 20 and 80 minutes. Clearly, she’s passionate about self-care, but she’s also an advocate for overall physical wellbeing. In episode 76, she talks to me about the #hurdlemoment of both her and her husband going through cancer, and how that has influenced her perspective on prioritizing health. We talk about how she managed to make a major career transition while supporting her husband through his cancer battle, and the big lessons she learned along the way that have made her a better partner and executive. We also rap on how often you should get body work and the 27-minute workout she swears by. SOCIAL @britdrisc @squeeze @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. WHOOP | Head to whoop.com to get a free WHOOP band plus 15 percent off any membership by entering the code "hurdle" at checkout. CHICAGO MARATHON WEEKEND MEET-UP | So excited to see the Chicago-based hurdlers. Come join in for a 5K shakeout and post-run brews on 10/11 at 4:30 p.m. at Lululemon Lincoln Park, sign up by clicking here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week's #hurdlemoment is a must-hear, regardless of if you're running a race this fall or not. Whether it’s your first or your hundredth, marathon race day gives runners the same nervous butterflies every single time. For today’s episode, I sit down with Robin Arzon, 26-time marathoner, Vice President of Fitness Programming and instructor at Peloton, and author of the New York Times bestseller Shut Up and Run. We rap about everything you need to do to prepare before and ON race day, from the best things you can do the day before you toe the starting line to exactly how much fuel you should be taking in along the 26.2 miles. This RRCA-certified running coach and marathon veteran has the tips you need to successfully conquer 26.2 miles, then bring that same swagger along with you in everyday life.  SOCIAL @robinnyc @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE WOLACO | New York local? Click to be kept in the loop on WOLACO Wednesday, their weekly free workout series. WOLACO Women is also releasing some fun new stuff in October. Click this link get 15 percent off your purchase on launch day!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To describe Ally Love with the word “boss” would be an understatement. She is a do-it-all kind of woman: The in-arena host for the Brooklyn Nets, founder of LoveSquad, Adidas global ambassador, and Peloton instructor (among other talents). In episode 75, she tells me all about the #hurdlemoment which framed her “I can” mindset: A horrifying car accident at age nine which landed her in critical condition with a broken femur. We talk about how she came back from the unthinkable, rising up as a dancer and making her mark on New York City. She tells me about how she discovered her voice with the help of hosting classes, the three books she read that helped to guide her in her career, and the unexpected text message that landed her in the saddle at Peloton. If you’re looking for a little motivation to go after you passions, look no further — Ally is a ball of energy and she wants to empower you to be everything you dream of and more. SOCIAL @allymisslove @onepeloton @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. WHOOP | Head to whoop.com to get a free WHOOP band plus 15 percent off any membership by entering the code "hurdle" at checkout.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aya Kanai is a powerhouse, at the helm of fashion content for Hearst as the publishing company’s Chief Fashion Director. In today’s special live episode, in collaboration with Trellis Health, Aya gets really vulnerable about her journey to have her daughter. We chat about how a miscarriage encouraged her to brave training for her first full marathon (a #hurdlemoment, no doubt), and what it was like for her to go through the egg freezing process. For anyone who has ever had fertility struggles, this episode will remind you that you are definitely not alone. For those who aren’t sure what the whole process entails? Aya spares no details with her open, honest story. SOCIAL @ayakanai @hurdlepodcast @trellishealth @emilyabbate MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Trellis Health | Learn more about the egg freezing fertility studio by visiting their website, trellishealth.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It took me a really long time as an adult to feel good with spending time by myself. In today’s episode, I tackle a topic that I get a lot of questions about: loneliness. Important distinction: There is a difference between feeling lonely and being alone. In today’s episode, I dissect that, and offer up four strategies to help you truly embrace your time solo. SOCIAL @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE WOLACO | New to the brand? Check out their Walker Crop (but really, I have it in three colors). They’re also releasing some fun new stuff in October. Click this link to be kept in the loop and get 15 percent off your purchase on launch day!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This guy isn’t busy at all (sarcasm alert): The CEO of Los Angeles-based Five Four Group works tirelessly building a slew of fashion brands (including Menlo Club, Young & Reckless, Grand Athletic Club, New Republic). He also chimes in regularly on his own podcast, DEETOUR, as well as a thrice-weekly news show with his business partners — Chris ‘Drama’ Pfaff and his brother Anand — called Group Chat. But back in 2007, life looked really different. Struggling to keep his business afloat during the financial crisis, Murthy decided to do some self-work and sign up for a triathlon. That race happened at a critical point for him, and come 2014, Murthy and his team were launching more and more brands and he was really coming into his own. In episode 73, we talk about what he says is the single best thing he's done in his career — create a run club to coincide with his athletic wear brand — and how that has changed him as a business person. The serial entrepreneur offers up must-hear advice for anyone struggling to find their way, and we share a bunch of laughs along the way. SOCIAL @deemurthy @groupchatpod @menloclub @shopnewrepublic @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. WHOOP | Head to whoop.com to get a free WHOOP band plus 15 percent off any membership by entering the code "hurdle" at checkout. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Trellis Health  |  LIVE Podcast with Aya Kanai, Hearst Chief Fashion Director; September 17, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. {Free tickets here}See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I chatted all about injury in #hurdlemoment a few weeks back, but in today's episode I'm bringing in reinforcements. Meet Blake Dircksen: a physical therapist at Bespoke Treatments in Midtown Manhattan. We're focusing on how to navigate pain as a runner, and the best way to handle the most common injuries. Spoiler alert: You can often run through it, he says. We also rap on the benefits of cross-training and when is the RIGHT time to seek help when you're feeling like something's off.  SOCIAL @blake.dirck @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE WOLACO | Had the best time at last week's run co-hosted by WOLACO women.  New to the brand? Check out their Walker Crop (but really, I have it in three colors). And if you're an NYC local, click to be kept in the loop on WOLACO Wednesday, their weekly free workout series.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These days, Betina Gozo makes a living with a side of sweat as a Nike Master Trainer. But not all that long ago, the Philippines-born bombshell was playing bass in a rock band. In episode 72, we talk about the workout class that changed her life entirely (and ultimately, her career path), and how she went from hardly being able to do exercises with 5-pound dumbbells to crushing barbell-friendly workouts on the Nike Training Club app. We also talk about one of the hardest parts of adulting — balancing a career and your personal life, and the tough decisions she made after spending some time cell phone free on a work trip. SOCIAL @betinagozo @dancewithmweyne @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Trellis Health  |  LIVE Podcast with Aya Kanai, Hearst Chief Fashion Director; September 17, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. {Free tickets here} Dance with Mweyne  |  Donate and learn more about Betina’s foundation here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all have bad runs. How you handle them mid-stride can make all the difference between quitting and sticking it out. In today’s #hurdlemoment — the first of a series this September dedicated to the slew of your running Qs — I talk about three strategies I use to stick out a tough go. Three. Simple. Tricks. SOCIAL @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE | WOLACO You've been asking for a run meet-up, and here we go! I'm teaming up with NYC-based activewear brand WOLACO to host a ladies-only run at 6:30 p.m. September 5 in collaboration with my friends at Charley St. The run kicks off and ends at 6:30 p.m. at Charley St. (41 Kenmare), where we’ll indulge in some great grub post-sweat. RSVP at this link, and share with a friend! Also, check out WOLACO.com and @wolacowomen on Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I feel pretty lucky that I’ve found my way into a career that I feel truly passionate about. David Thomas Tao feels the same way. But the journey the Harvard grad took to get to his current position at BarBend wasn’t exactly simple. In episode 71, the veteran journalist tells me about the #hurdlemoment he went through in Las Vegas that made him question his entire career. We chat about the importance of listening to your gut, slowing down, and trusting other people to do the things that they’re good at. We also geek out about strength training and talk about the value of sweatworking. SOCIAL @davidthomastao @barbend @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. UPCOMING WOLACO Run | You've been asking for a run meet-up, and here we go! I'm teaming up with NYC-based activewear brand WOLACO to host a run on the evening of September 5 in collaboration with my friends at Charley St. We’ll meet at Charley St. (41 Kenmare) at 6:30 p.m., go for a 5K run, and return there afterward! RSVP at this link, and share with a friend! Also, check out  WOLACO.com and @wolacowomen on Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I’m not trying to be negative. Rather, this week’s #hurdlemoment is all about identifying common reasons that we lack follow-through. When was the last time you had a goal that you let slip through your fingers? Could you have done something differently to impact the outcome? Well, there's good news: Failures happen to teach us something. Just like we have the opportunity to succeed and be better for it, same goes for failure. Chin up, Hurdlers; there’s a whole lot of winning to be done. SOCIAL @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE WOLACO | WOLACO You've been asking for a run meet-up, and here we go! I'm teaming up with NYC-based activewear brand WOLACO to host a ladies-only run at 6:30 p.m. September 5 in collaboration with my friends at Charley St. The run kicks off at WOLACO HQ (73 Warren Street in Tribeca)  and ends at Charley St. on Kenmare, where we’ll indulge in some great grub. RSVP at this link, and share with a friend! Also, check out WOLACO.com and @wolacowomen on Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hurdle has been getting pretty personal lately and this week’s episode with Dr. Jen Esquer is no exception. Over the past few years, everything has changed for the physical therapist known as @docjenfit to her 545K+ followers on social media. She exited a full-time job at a Santa Monica rehab facility to pursue private clients, work on online programming, and travel the world doing public speaking. Then, late last year Jen was blindsided by infidelity, which moved her to make the difficult decision to walk away from a long term relationship that wasn't serving her anymore. In episode 70, she tells me about how this #hurdlemoment turned her world upside-down, and how she took ownership of the situation rather than playing the victim. We get real honest about how post-breakup strategies helped her cope with heartache, and she sheds some light on how stress can manifest itself as physical pain. She also offers up some essential advice that will help you move better, including a simple exercise that you can perform in less than 5 minutes a day. SOCIAL @docjenfit @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary. UPCOMING | WOLACO RUN You've been asking for a run meet-up, and here we go! I'm teaming up with NYC-based activewear brand WOLACO to host a run on the evening of September 5 in collaboration with my friends at Charley St. More information to come, soon! In the meantime, RSVP at this link, and share with a friend! Also, check out  WOLACO.com and @wolacowomen on Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I was walking down the street the other day with Nike master trainer Kirsty Godso when we got on the topic of negative self-talk. Kirsty told me she's been having some tough conversations with herself about her body, and to be honest — I've been feeling the same way. Fact: Everyone is different, and negative self-talk doesn't discriminate. In today's episode, I sit down with Kirsty to have a super vulnerable, honest conversation about how to shift the voices inside our head from not-the-best to positive. We talk about the importance of having an "internal code of conduct," and offer up best-practice tips to being a happier, healthier you. SOCIAL @kirstygodso @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE WOLACO | WOLACO You've been asking for a run meet-up, and here we go! I'm teaming up with NYC-based activewear brand WOLACO to host a run on the evening of September 5 in collaboration with my friends at Charley St. More information to come, soon! In the meantime, RSVP at this link, and share with a friend! Also, check out  WOLACO.com and @wolacowomen on Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Autumn Calabrese is a powerhouse. As a personal trainer who found fame crafting workouts and nutrition programming for Beachbody, Autumn once thought she’d grow up to be a dancer. When injury got her down and a college dance master dissuaded her from pursuing her dancing dreams — she made lemonade out of lemons and pivoted to a new passion: Fitness.  In episode 69, the mega-trainer tells me all about her journey including the bumps, bruises, and hurdles that have made her who she is today. We talk about the most rewarding (and scary!) parts of being a trainer to millions around the globe, and she gives me the lowdown on what it was like filming E!’s Revenge Body. SOCIAL @autumncalabrese @beachbody @revengebody @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are so many people, things, experiences and obligations that flux with our energy on the regular. If you’re not careful, you could be giving too much of yourself to something (or someone!) that doesn’t deserve it — and sometimes, unknowingly. In today’s episode, I squad up with Nike master trainer Kirsty Godso to chat about empowerment, offer up some best-practice tips for protecting your energy (and your sanity), and we (no surprise here) love on some Drake lyrics for the ultimate advice. SOCIAL @hurdlepodcast @kirstygodso @emilyabbate MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE WOLACO | WOLACO wants to give your ladies the protection they deserve with a sweet deal on their Walker Crop Top. Available in four different colorways (I’m a huge fan of the Bowery Slate myself), this is perfect for Spin, yoga, or HIIT classes. Use the code “Hurdle40” at checkout to snag yours today, and check them out at WOLACO.com and at @wolacowomen on Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jillian Michaels is a household name in the fitness industry, and she welcomed me into her home in Malibu with open arms. Surreal? A little bit. We all watched her for years on The Biggest Loser, and in today’s episode Jillian and I talk about what life was like long before making it to prime time on NBC. She tells me about being overweight as a pre-teen, weighing about 175 pounds at age 12, and how taking up karate saved her life and helped her to develop essential confidence. We talk about the rollercoaster of emotions that came with coming out and her big goal of being the best mom she can be to her two kids. She fills me in on the fun projects that she’s working on now and offers up some really excellent career advice that you’ve just gotta hear.  SOCIAL  @jillianmichaels @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate My Fitness by Jillian Michaels app OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Being on the injured list sucks. In today's #hurdlemoment, I talk about the strategies that worked for me when I've had to take a step back in the past, the mental side of being down and out, and how to come back feeling better than you did before.  SOCIAL @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE | WOLACO was named the go-to brand for exercising on the road by Travel and Leisure. They focus on the basics creating fashionable and fuss-free gear that actually makes your life and workouts that much easier. Check them out at WOLACO.com and DM them on Instagram @wolacowomen/@wolaco with the code "HURDLE" to redeem a FREE $20 gift card.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Not all that long ago, CrossFit’s 3x “Fittest Woman On Earth” wasn’t working out at all. In 2011, she was enrolled in the nursing program at Queensland University of Technology, and felt as though she was in a total rut. “I had gained weight, I didn’t feel like I was doing what I wanted to do.” In this repost of episode 52, I sit down with Tia-Clair Toomey for a refreshingly honest conversation about her rise to the top of one of the most fascinating sports there is (I might be a little biased). The Australian-born athlete tells me about the #hurdlemoment that had her depressed, and how getting into CrossFit helped her get through it. We talk diet, a typical day of training, and get real vulnerable about managing expectations and going after life’s biggest challenges. Plus: her trip to the Olympics, how to handle being a beginner, and just wait until you hear how much this woman can deadlift. SOCIAL @tiaclair1 @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Los Angeles last week I had the opportunity to sit down with Nike master trainer Kirsty Godso and model Catherine Li to chat all about the ins and outs of being a runner. The good stuff. The tough stuff. The parts that make us excited to lace up day after day, and our reasons for why we started in the first place. Huge thanks to Nike for hosting us at their first-ever store, Blue Ribbon Sports, in honor of the global launch of their newest Joyride sneaker on August 15.  SOCIAL @kirstygodso @catieli @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For this week’s #hurdlemoment, I’m answering 10 listener questions off-the-cuff. No script. No planning. Just genuine honesty. From what I eat before a long run and my favorite Hurdle guests to the hardest part about putting out a podcast every week and how to get through a break-up. Have something else you want to ask? DM or email me, [email protected].  SOCIAL @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE WOLACO | New women’s line is live, and I’m obsessed with their Walker Crop (but really, I have it in three colors). NYC local? Click to be kept in the loop on WOLACO Wednesday, their weekly free workout series.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There was a time in Matthew Morton’s life when he was smoking three packs of cigarettes and downing up to 10 Red Bulls a day. That’s when his friend and NYU classmate Conrad Sandelman challenged him to give up the energy drink for 30 days, swapping in matcha—a finely ground green tea powder—instead. Little did the duo know that experiment would change both of their lives forever. In episode 66, the founders behind NYC-born café Cha Cha Matcha tell me about the journey they took to Japan to create their own unique ceremonial-grade blend of the green powder, and what it’s like to be entrepreneurs at such a young age. We also chat funny hiring stories, the INSANE amount of money Matt’s saved by quitting smoking, and their big goals for the brand coming down the line. SOCIAL @chachamatcha @matthewmorton @conradsandelman @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to athleticgreens.com/hurdle to get 20 free travel packs ($79 value) with your first purchase, no code necessary.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Teaming up with trainer Betina Gozo in Los Angeles for this week’s #hurdlemoment, where we’re dishing on our top healthy travel suggestions. From how to avoid germs on the plane to strategies for smarter eating, there’s no reason your next vacation (or work trip!) has to completely derail positive progress. Plus: We offer up our favorite in-the-air skincare suggestions and rap about the best way to beat jet lag.  SOCIAL @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate @betinagozo MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE WOLACO | WOLACO was named the go-to brand for exercising on the road by Travel and Leisure. They focus on the basics creating fashionable and fuss-free gear that actually makes your life and workouts that much easier. Check them out at WOLACO.com and on Instagram @wolacowomen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.