The Rambling Runner Podcast

In this episode of Coach’s Corner, my coach, James McKirdy, talks with me two days before a 5k I ran in July. We discuss the importance of racing during a tough training week, overcoming the mental block that has stopped me from fighting through pain in the past, and many other topics that runners of all abilities can relate to. If you want to learn more about James and McKirdy Trained you can visit www.mckirdytrained.com. This episode is brought to you by Mercury Mile. You can get a box of goodies that any runner will love at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code “ramblingrunner10” at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The most elusive, elite multi-day race in the world, the Self-Transcendence 3100 Mile Race, takes place in Queens, New York City each summer. This race is held around one square sidewalk block (0.56 miles) and requires at least 59 miles a day for 52 straight days to complete the event. In this episode, director & producer Sanjay Rawal dives into the themes that lay at the heart of this amazing documentary. The Race promises personal expansion and, indeed, participants come from around the world to shatter their limitations and discover a deeper sense of self. The film follows Aspirants of the Highest from three cultures whose own narratives parallel that of two 3100 Mile Runners – a diminutive paperboy from Finland, and a female cellist from Austria. These three heroic Aspirants (Shaun Martin-Navajo, Gaolo-San Bushmen, Gyoman-san-Monks of Mt. Hiei Japan) run for spiritual enlightenment, universal oneness or because they simply have the responsibility to run. More - www.3100film.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’re like me, dialing in the proper nutrition is frustrating and challenging. What should we eat? When should we eat it? What foods should we stay away from? Heather answers all of these questions, and more. Not only that, she is also a 3:14 marathoner and mother who has learned from first hand experience. You can follow Heather at www.instagram.com/run4prs.dietitian. If you interested in getting a weekly meal plan and grocery list from her you can go to www.run4prs.co. If you use promo code RAMBLINGRUNNER you will be entered into a drawing for a free 45 minute conversation with Heather. This episode is brought to you by Mercury Mile. You can get a box of goodies that any runner will love at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code “ramblingrunner10” at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a former scholarship runner at UCF turned 12 time sub-3:00 marathoner, Heather Schulz has gained 25 years of experience as an elite amateur runner. In this episode, Heather talks about how she chipped away at her marathon goal over a number of years, her low mileage training schedule, and why she trains more like a 5k or 10k runner. We also take a deep dive into how and why she now prioritizes a positive mindset before and during her runs. Finally, Heather talks about raising and parenting a child who is interested in pursuing running. You can follow Heather’s running journey at www.instagram.com/heatherunz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“When you want to make a change - just start. Don’t wait for a dedicated time to begin.” Jean Mike Remy looks like Mr. Universe but it wasn’t always that way. In his mid-20’s he ballooned to 265 lbs and was put on medication for high blood pressure and was on the cusp of getting type two diabetes. As Remy says in the episode, “I didn’t want to be a statistic.” That is why he made a change and turned his like around. His dedication to diet, running, biking, and strength training is remarkable and the results are extraordinary. This episode is brought to you by Mercury Mile. You can get a box of goodies that any runner will love at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code “ramblingrunner10” at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In three short years, Jill Deering co-founded the running apparel company Rabbit, won the Carlsbad and Mountains 2 Beach marathons, and gave birth to her son Jett. In this episode, Jill discusses all of this, and more. We also dive into overcoming barriers, mental toughness strategies, and her advice for people with entrepreneurial tendencies. You can learn more about Jill at www.instagram.com/jillmariedeering and Rabbit at www.runinrabbit.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“If we did all the things we are capable of, we would literally astound ourselves.” - Thomas A. Edison If you think you have reached your potential then you need to listen to this episode. Kaitlyn Morgan’s running journey started five years ago when her father was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. This shock caused her to dive head first into long distance running and she has never turned back. From running the 175 miles in seven days for MS Run the US relay (twice) to finishing 6th at the Leadville 100, and everything inbetween, Kaitlyn is a shining example of we are capable of doing when we keep pushing for more. You can learn more about Kaitlyn at www.instagram.com/kkroo917. If you like the show, you can get even more Rambling Runner content at www.patreon.com/ramblingrunner. This episode is brought to you by Mercury Mile. You can get a box of goodies that any runner will love at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code “ramblingrunner10” at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Victim to victory. In 2005, Sam Gardner was in college and training for a half marathon. During a run while home for Thanksgiving the unthinkable happened. Sam was abducted, attacked, and raped. She was held in the woods near her home for several hours until her attacker eventually let her go. However, her story is one of hope and triumph. After years of physical, mental, and emotional recovery, Sam has transitioned from victim to victor. The moment that best represents that growth was when she won the 2015 Rock n’ Roll Half Marathon in New Orleans. It was an athletic accomplishment but, even more so, a spiritual achievement. You can learn more about Sam at www.mobilebayrunner.com and www.instagram.com/mobilebayrunner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have all had a race that was a complete disaster. But, what matters most is what you do when the inevitable happens. Brigitte Bradford experienced her disaster race at Mountains 2 Beach this spring. She expected to set a new PR. Instead, she quit the race at mile 18. In Part I of our conversation, we discussed her strong build-up to M2B, her experience grinding through a tough marathon at Boston in 2017, and the mental approach that failed her in 2018. This episode is part II of our conversation - Brigitte’s Redemption. If you like the show, you can get even more Rambling Runner content at www.patreon.com/ramblingrunner. This episode is brought to you by Mercury Mile. You can get a box of goodies that any runner will love at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code “ramblingrunner10” at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“I’m not crying. You’re crying! Five weeks after a DNF at Mountains 2 Beach, I had the race of my dreams this morning! What changed? I focused on having fun. Turns out that positivity really is the best performance enhancer.” - Brigitte Bradford We’ve all been there. We have all had a race that was complete disaster. The question isn’t if we will have one, but, what will we do once it occurs. Brigitte experienced her disaster race at Mountains 2 Beach this spring. She expected to set a new PR. Instead, she quit the race at mile 18. In Part I of our conversation, we discuss her strong build-up to M2B, her experience grinding through a tough marathon at Boston in 2017, and the mental approach that failed her in 2018. Next week I will release Part II of our conversation - Brigitte’s redemption. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the hallmarks of the dedicated amateur runner is the ups-and-downs in training that parallel our life journey. Vic has experienced this several times and has bounced back on each occasion. From a significant weight gain to a severe blood infection, his path back to peak fitness has been filled with grit and dedication. You can follow Vic’s running journey at www.instagram.com/iowarunner3.0. If you like the show, you can get even more Rambling Runner content at www.patreon.com/ramblingrunner. This episode is brought to you by Mercury Mile. You can get a box of goodies that any runner will love at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code “ramblingrunner10” at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amanda Brooks has provided as much insight for dedicated runners as anybody over the last decade. Her writing on www.runtothefinish.com spans a wide variety of topics including injury prevention, running related travel, clean eating, and much more. In this episode we touch on all of these things, as well as her writing background, and how she transitioned from a career in web development to a professional writer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The one year anniversary of the Rambling Runner Podcast is here and we are celebrating with a pair of great guests this week. Today’s conversation is with dedicated runner and experienced coach Victoria Phillippi. Victoria has run dozens of marathons and half marathons and started the popular coaching service Run4Prs. After diving into her running and coaching background we conduct the longest Coach’s Corner segment ever. Victoria touches on a dozen topics that affect runners of all abilities and does so with enthusiasm and insight. You can learn more about Victoria at www.run4prs.co and www.instagram.com/run4prs. If you like the show, you can get even more Rambling Runner content at www.patreon.com/ramblingrunner. This episode is brought to you by Mercury Mile. You can get a box of goodies that any runner will love at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code “ramblingrunner10” at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The assumption of many is that an eating disorder is about a person’s relationship with food. In this episode, Starla Garcia M.Ed, RDN, LD proves that there is much, much more to that story. Starla achieved her dream of running in college when she committed to the University of Houston. She had a successful freshman season and was poised become a team leader. When she developed an eating disorder during her sophomore season her college running dreams took a backseat. All the while Starla was studying to become a dietician and seeing the benefits of a healthy diet. Why couldn’t she put those principles to good use in her own life? We discuss that question and many others in this episode. You can learn more about Starla and read her wonderful blog posts at www.starlashines.com and www.instagram.com/starla_shines. Starla is also a contributor to www.sweat.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I speak with a psychologist, nationally certified counselor, and experienced runner. We discuss some common mental health challenges and how running can affect them. We also talk about finding yourself through struggle, the interplay between genetics and upbringing, and the fear of racing. This episode is brought to you by Mercury Mile. You can get a box of goodies that any runner will love at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code “ramblingrunner10” at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the Rambling Runner Podcast is a review of two products I've been eager to try - Mighty and the Topo ST-2. I've been using these two items for the past few weeks and I'm excited to share my thoughts with you. You can learn more about each at www.bemighty.com and www.topoathletic.com, respectively. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Embrace failure. Missteps and roadblocks are inevitable but are ultimately an opportunity to learn, pivot, and go after your goals with new perspective.” - Jenny Fleiss Ever since the first day of the Rambling Runner Podcast this was an interview that I dreamed of doing. Sarah Canney is an accomplished runner, coach, snowshoerer, and running blogger. She recently came in third at the Snowshoe National Championships and set a huge PR in the race up Mt. Washington. But, between those two races Sarah was bogged down by some of the same issues that many of us face. We also talk about her amazing running and wellness retreat. You can learn more about Sarah at www.runfargirl.com and her name on every social media platform is “RunFarGirl.” This episode is brought to you by Mercury Mile. You can get a box of goodies that any runner will love at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code “ramblingrunner10” at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's back - Rambling Runner Funny Stories Part II. We received dozens of submissions and I want to thank everyone who sent in a story. We made a couple changes this time around. Laura Pierce and I are joined by our friend Tasha DeVita. Also, half of the stories featured are audio clips in which the stories are told by the people who lived them. Enjoy! You can learn more about Laura at https://www.instagram.com/nebraskarunner/ and Tasha at https://www.instagram.com/tash_runs26.2/. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Failure happens all the time. It happens every day in practice. What makes you better is how you react to it." - Mia Hamm For Kindal Alysse, 2016 was a dream. She set personal bests at nearly every distanced she raced in running and triathlon. 2017, however, was exactly the opposite. In this episode, Kindal details how she was able to reach her goals and then, when she was rocked by disappointment, how she dealt with it and bounced back. You can learn more about Kindal at https://www.instagram.com/runningwithstrength/ and https://runningwithstrengthblog.wordpress.com/. Thank you, Mercury Mile for sponsoring this episode. You can learn more about this amazing box service at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code "ramblingrunner10". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is a recording of a call with my coach James McKirdy in which we go over my recent performance at the Gaspee Days 5k and James's coaching philosophy. We also plan out the next few months of my training and how to get ready for races of varying lengths. Throughout the episode James brings his trademark energy, enthusiasm, and humor. This episode is one of the many types of exclusive content that will be available on my new venture www.patreon.com/ramblingrunner. If you want more of this kind of exclusive content please checkout the site. If you want to learn more about James and McKirdy trained you can visit www.mckirdytrained.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Elyse Garza trained for months in the run-up to the Mountains 2 Beach Marathon. She PR'd at a few races during that time and was ready to go on race day. Then she dropped a huge PR and beat her goal of a 3:20 marathon. How did she feel a few days after that major accomplishment? Crappy. In this episode, Elyse dives into the mental side of running that she has concurrently struggled with and improved on. She also details how her competitive nature fuels her to succeed, how she has battled body image issues, and the role a running group can play in helping you achieve personal and athletic goals. Lastly, Elyse details the way she structures her running schedule around her hectic life as a flight attendant. You can learn more about Elyse and follow her running journey at https://www.instagram.com/milestomedals. Thank you, Mercury Mile for sponsoring this episode. You can learn more about this amazing box service at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code "ramblingrunner10". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“When a man moves away from nature his heart becomes hard.” – Lakota. Verna Volker has the kind of passion and grit that can only lead to achievement. 10 years ago she was a non-runner. Today she is a five time marathoner and ultrarunner. Her recent 50k was held on a water logged mud path but that didn't stop Verna in her first ultra. Not only did she finish, she was first in her age group. Verna is from the Navajo tribe and grew-up on a reservation in the Four Corners area of New Mexico. In a addition to being a devoted runner, she is dedicated to increasing visibility to, and connections within, the Native American outdoor athletic community. To that end, we discuss the importance of Native American cultures and their representation in popular media. You can follow Verna at https://www.instagram.com/hozhorunner4 and https://www.instagram.com/native_women_running. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is a collaboration with my friend Kimberly Chanelle Clark where we explore our experiences in self-experimentation. Kim is constantly looking for various ways to improve her performance it was great to hear what has worked for her. The topics we discuss are sugar, sleep, caffeine, supplements, alternative races, etc. Kim also talks about how she prepared for the San Diego Rock n' Roll Half Marathon after coming down with the flu two weeks before the race after a tremendous build-up. You can follow Kim's running journey at https://www.instagram.com/trackclubbabe. Thank you, Mercury Mile for sponsoring this episode. You can learn more about this amazing box service at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code "ramblingrunner10". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Nothing will work unless you do.” — Maya Angelou. What did Laura Anderson do in her first postpartum marathon? She won it, that's what! This amazing woman has progressed from a college track All-American who hated anything longer than 800m, to a 3:47 marathoner, to winning the 2018 Buffalo Marathon in a time of 2:57. Her progression is extraordinary. Once you realize that she also works two jobs and is raising a toddler, Laura's story becomes truly incredible. In this episode, we discuss those topics as well as her ideas on goal setting, embracing the little victories, her decision to be a "low-mileage" runner, and how she balances her crazy schedule while striving for athletic success. You can follow Laura at www.instagram.com/losingrace and www.twitter.com/losingrace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In our first three person interview I speak with accomplished runners, and creators of the Run Strong Project, Amy Haenick and Sara Plumstead. These two amazing women have a long history of running success while overcoming challenging situations in their personal lives. Their dedication to a sport they love, and each other, is deeply inspiring. You can follow Amy at https://www.instagram.com/amyrunsdetroit; Sara at https://www.instagram.com/michiganmarathoner; and the Run Strong Project at https://www.instagram.com/runstrongproject. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The size of your success is measured by the strength of your desire; the size of your dream; and how you handle disappointment along the way." - Robert Kiyosaki Kimberlie McBride was living the dream. A year into her re-dedication to running she was nailing her workouts and improving at a rapid rate. With her sights set on the Fargo Marathon, she even set a half marathon PR in the middle of a training block. Then, shockingly, it all came crashing down. In this episode, Kimberlie details her running journey and how it felt when her marathon dreams were dashed. She expresses her thoughts and emotions after the race with her trademark energy and enthusiasm. You can follow Kimberlie at www.instagram.com/my.runstagram.life. This episode is brought to you by one of my favorite things - Mercury Mile. You can learn more about this amazing box service that provides top of the line gear and accessories at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code "ramblingrunner10" at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The foundation of the Rambling Runner Podcast is balancing running with the life's necessities. This is exactly what Jessica Rinehart has done so well. With a full-time job and a thriving online coaching business and blog, Jessica was able to put in months of high mileage training. This work culminated in a personal best of 3:07 at the Eugene Marathon. In this episode Jessica talks about how she gets running in, her less than stellar build-up to Eugene (and her shocking result), and her dedication to yearly goals. You can learn more about Jessica at www.sugarruns.com and www.instagram.com/sugarruns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"When I started running after college I ran away from all things. Expectations, healthy relationships (people, myself, food), mother's brain cancer and death, and infertility. When I picked-up running two years ago it was to run towards something." - Amanda Ghent. In this episode, Amanda Ghent goes deep into why running is such a big part of her life. Not only that, she provides color and context for how she grappled with an eating disorder earlier in her life. We also talk about her recent 5k PR and the two half marathons that preceded it. You can follow Amanda at www.instagram.com/amandaghent and www.therunningsenora.wordpress.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Nicole Wade uses her expertise as a holistic health and wellness coach to give me a mini-counseling session as I try to kick my sugar addiction. We also discuss our shared experiences with self-sabotage, her start in running, how she transformed into a 3:35 marathoner, and her 2018 Boston Marathon experience. You can learn more about at Nicole at www.heartandsolerunning.com and follow her at www.instagram.com/heartnsolerunning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"It is never too late to be what you might have been." - George Eliot. Jonathan Greenwald is a 3:11 marathoner who qualified for the Boston Marathon in his forties. Those two facts alone are remarkable. Throw in the fact that he started running at age 40 and it becomes even more amazing. In this episode, Jonathan discusses why he started running late in life, the role of running groups in his rapid improvement, and his quest for Boston. You can follow Jonathan's running journey at www.instagram.com/runthesix and https://brooklyn2boston.com/. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"We must meet the challenge rather than wish it were not before us." - William J. Brennan, Jr., Former Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. In matter of 2:49:50 Becky Snelson went from successful amateur runner to the talk of the running community. Her 14th place finish at the 2018 Boston Marathon, in a personal best time, set off a bit of a controversy. Becky didn't initially receive prize money because she didn't start with the elite women. This remarkable achievement was a testament to her hard work, toughness in training, and successful race strategy. In addition to her elite running ability, Becky also has a full-time job as an engineer and is in grad school. A true dedicated amateur runner in every sense. You can read Becky's account of her Boston Marathon experience on her blog www.beckyontherun.wordpress.com and follow her at www.instagram.com/bsnelson0411. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The good side of mental fortitude gets lauded in the press, but we don't talk about the other side enough without making it sound like weakness." - Marcus Brown. In this episode of the Rambling Runner podcast I am joined by world marathon major six star finisher Marcus Brown. Marcus completed the series at the 2018 Boston Marathon where he also, ahem, set a new PR. Shortly thereafter, improbably, Marcus toed the line of the London Marathon. We talk about all of this but, before we do, Marcus and I talk about his mission to raise awareness for those experiencing mental challenges in the United Kingdom. We discuss this issue generally before Marcus shares his own experiences with openness and candor. You can learn more about Marcus by following him at www.instagram.com/themarathonmarcus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"A positive attitude causes a chain reaction of positive thoughts, events, and outcomes. It is a catalyst and it sparks extraordinary results." - Wade Boggs. It is great to have Maurice Lowman back on the show. If you want to hear Maurice's full and amazing back story check out episode 12. In this episode, Maurice and I discuss he recent Boston Marathon experience, how to keep a positive attitude despite difficult circumstances, and the power of positivity. Maurice also talks about how he talks to fellow addicts who are struggling with the daily challenges of sobriety. You can follow Maurice's running journey at www.instagram.com/marathonpandamaurice. This episode is brought you by C3fit high performance sportswear. Their high performance compression tights and arch support socks are tremendous and I cannot recommend them highly enough. You can learn more about them at www.c3fit.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"If you want something done, ask a busy person to do it. The more things you do, the more you can do." - Lucille Ball. A doctor of speech pathology, nutrition coach, mother of three, and marathoner - Melissa Malani is one busy woman. Despite that, or maybe because of it, she is able to cram an awful lot into one day. In this episode we discuss how and why she does it, her preparation for, and performance in, the 2018 Boston marathon, and her internal drive that propels her to achieve. Melissa also shares how a mentally and emotionally abusive first marriage caused her to stop running. She picked it back up for the best possible reason - because it was something she, she alone, wanted to do. You can follow Melissa at www.instagram.com/isamarathoner.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Life's challenges are not supposed to paralyze you; they're supposed to help you discover who you are." - Bernice Johnson Reagon In 2001, Jacky Hunt-Broersma had the lower part of her left leg amputated after a sarcoma tumor was found above her left foot. From that point on she used her strong will and determination to live the life she chose and not one she was forced into. 15 years later she started running. She increased her mileage so quickly that she ran her first marathon a year later and is currently training for ultras. In this episode, Jacky discusses her running background, the logistics of being an amputee runner, and her recent experience running the Boston Marathon. You can follow Jacky at www.instagram.com/ncrunnerjacky. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In our first Boston Marathon review episode we hear from James McKirdy from McKirdy Trained. We talk about the race, how he and his fellow coaches prepared their athletes for the race, and how runners can be prepared for conditions they have have never experienced in training. After our Boston conversation we dive the history behind McKirdy trained and why, how, and when it was started. James and I finish up with a Coach's Corner segment that includes when runners shouldn't wear a watch during a race, fighting through discomfort, James's opinions on marathon predictor workouts. You can learn more about James and McKirdy Trained at mckirdytrained.com and www.instagram.com/mckirdytrained. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members." - Coretta Scott King Carlos Del Pino was born in the outskirts of Tampico, Tamaulipas, México. As a growing boy, his passion turned to running. Once in the United States he began making friends in the local running scene. Carlos's community building was just getting started. To this day, Carlos has developed a wonderful running community that includes people from across the world. The symbiotic relationship between this group has allowed all of them, Carlos included, to achieve great running feats. Carlos discusses all of these topics in addition to becoming the "King of Treadmills," an ultramarathoner, and more in this episode of the Rambling Runner Podcast. You can learn more about Carlos at www.carlostherunner.com and www.instagram.com/carlostherunner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Turn your setbacks into comebacks.” - Anonymous Over the course of her running career Jessica Tondre cameback from many physical setbacks that have also challenged her mentally and emotionally. From serious leg injuries to a kidney disease, unfortunately there has been no shortage of comeback opportunities for Jess. Despite those issues, she continues to exhibit a contagious positive attitude. We also discuss fear of failure, coaching kids, and her goals for 2018. If you want to get new, high-quality, running gear sent to your home then check out our sponsor Mercury Mile. You can learn more at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code "ramblingrunner10.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"If laughter cannot solve your problems, it will definitely dissolve your problems; so that you can think clearly what to do about them." – Dr. Madan Kataria In this episode, I was joined by my co-host for the Funny Stories Part I episode Laura Pierce. Laura will be running the Boston Marathon next week after putting together an amazing training cycle. As good as that cycle was, it was the result of a challenging and exciting 2017 that included five, yes five, marathons. We also discuss how she has used running as a form of therapy throughout her life, including after her mother's passed away a year after being diagnosed with ALS. The memory of her mother continues to inspire Laura as she focuses on the mantra "Because I Can," which is a reminder to maximize her physical capabilities. If you want to get new, high-quality, running gear sent to your home then check out our sponsor Mercury Mile. You can learn more at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using code "ramblingrunner10." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At this time last year Rachel Davis ran her dream race at the 2017 Boston Marathon. She exceeded her goal by seven minutes and ran a six minute and negative split despite in unusually high temperatures. In this episode of the podcast, Rachel and I talk about her 2017 race, the injuries and over-training that followed, and how she made the transition from 800m runner to marathoner. We also take a deep dive into nutrition. Rachel is a Ph.D candidate in nutrition sciences at the University of Alabama Birmingham. We talk about several practical things that affect many runners no matter their running level. You can learn more about Rachel, her running, and her nutrition expertise at http://fuelbyracheldavis.com. If you want to get new, high-quality, running gear sent to your home then check out our sponsor Mercury Mile. You can learn more at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code "ramblingrunner10." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sometimes you need to fight through discomfort to achieve your goals. Then, other times, you need to change course and find a new challenge. Audrey Springer has taken both roads and found success at the end of each. In this episode we talk about her college running experience that included her scholarship being revoked before she finished with successful senior year. We also discuss her recent half marathon PR, overcoming challenges, and working through burnout. You can learn more about Audrey at www.runningthealley.com. and www.instagram.com/runningthealley This episode is brought to you by one of my favorite things - Mercury Mile. You can learn more about this amazing box service that provides top of the line gear and accessories at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code "ramblingrunner10" at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Haden is a LinkedIn Influencer, ghostwriter, speaker, and Inc. magazine contributing editor. In 2017, his online articles for Inc. attracted more than 20 million readers. Not only that, he is also a dedicated amateur athlete. In his book, "The Motivation Myth: How High Achievers Really Set Themselves Up to Win," Jeff states that motivation is not the catalyst of achievement but, rather, the result of small and consistent successes that build upon one another. We discuss the easy wins that can lead to increased motivation, the best ways to increase willpower, and how to organize your life so you don't have to use it. You can learn more about Jeff at www.jeffhaden.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"One of the nice things about being busy is it makes you focus on what's important to you and how you use your time." - Lorne Michaels. Who decides to pick-up running after giving birth to triplets? McCall Lee, that's who. That's not to say she wasn't an athlete before then. McCall earned a black belt by age 12 before doing a year of cross-country in high school (where she promptly ditched practice to hit-up some fast food). In this episode, McCall talks about why she picked up running, how she balances it with raising her girls, and her current training regimen that has seen her already run a 22:08 5k. You can follow McCall's running journey at www.instagram.com/see_mac_run. This episode is brought to you by one of my favorite things - Mercury Mile. You can learn more about this amazing box service that provides top of the line gear and accessories at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code "ramblingrunner10" at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever worked for years to achieve a goal and found yourself wondering if it was ever going to happen? Well, Jen is proof that if you keep working hard, and team up with the right people, you can breakthrough. It took her several years to break the 1:40 barrier in the half marathon but she finally did it this month with blazing fast 1:37. In this episode, Jen talks about what she changed in her training to finally get over the hump, why she makes a point to run with local running clubs/groups, and, of course, desserts! You can follow Jen at www.instagram.com/fueledbyfrosting. This episode is sponsored by Mercury Mile. You can learn more about this amazing box service that provides top of the line gear and accessories at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code "ramblingrunner10" at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, it was a privilege to speak with with Sara Turner. Sara steadily worked her way from a 4:40 marathoner to a Boston Marathon qualifier. There were plenty of hurdles along the way including injuries, raising a newborn, and a disappointing DNF. Her humble nature is matched by her fierce persistence and desire to improve. You can follow Sara at www.instagram.com/therunningwife. This episode is sponsored by Mercury Mile. You can learn more about this amazing box service that provides top of the line gear and accessories at www.mercurymile.com and save $10 by using promo code "ramblingrunner10" at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fresh off is sixth place finish at the U.S. 15k Championships, in a scorching time of 44:11, Ryan Vail brings his professional wisdom to the Rambling Runner Podcast. In this episode, Ryan talks about how he has juggled his recent training with raising his newborn son, his upcoming plans for his first Boston Marathon, and some of the tips he gives to his running clients. You can follow Ryan's weekly training schedule at www.ryanvail.blogspot.com/ and inquire about his coaching service at www.rundoyen.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We asked and you delivered! After our call-to-action for funny running stories the listeners provided many great ones. In this episode, co-hosted by Laura Pierce, we read these hilarious tales of running folly and added our two cents. Kudos to everyone brave enough to send these to us. We had a blast recording this episode and hope to do another one in the near future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

By the age of 29, Brooke Adams achieved an almost unbelievable feet. She completed all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors! Not only that, she did it with an average time of 2:59. This incredible runner did not come from a traditional running background. The daughter and sister dairy farmers, Brooke is now an assistant principal while pursuing her running dreams. In this episode she details her emergence from good high school runner to one of the only women to ever complete all six majors before the age of 30. We also discussed how she has drawn strength from her father who lost his ability to walk 20 years ago due to his battle with multiple sclerosis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Heather Szuba is living the amateur running lifestyle to a “T.” She has whittled down her marathon time from 4:00 hours to 3:12 while working as an engineer and starting a coaching practice. At the age of 24 she came to the realization that she needed to become a healthier person. She started with the elliptical before introducing 10 minute running segments into her routine. Then one day at the gym she was inspired by the goal of running for an hour. From there, her running journey took off. We had a great conversation about all of these things and how to live a balanced life while trying to achieve big running goals. You can follow Heather at www.instagram.com/itsheathersturn or inquire about her coaching services at www.mckirdytrained.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All Ralph Peterson had to do was change everything. Severely overweight, struggling with addiction, and unhappy in almost every area of his life, Ralph knew he was capable of much more. His conversion into a dedicated marathoner is nothing short of remarkable. In this episode, Ralph details his running and dietary journey that was the foundation of his book “Adventures in Dietland: How to Win at the Game of Dieting from a Former Fat Guy.” We take a deep dive into some of the many tips he has for those of us who struggle with our food choices. You can get “Adventures in Dietland: How to Win at the Game of Dieting from a Former Fat Guy” here: https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Dietland-Game-Dieting-Former/dp/0998926809 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices