For The Long Run: Exploring the Why Behind Running

Matt is a running podcaster, running coach, lover of sports, father, husband, and proud masters runner. In this episode we talk about: -starting a podcast -evolving the interview process -staying true to a mission and to Matt’s core audience of amateur athletes -the world of running podcasts -taking risks and betting on yourself -being a full-time podcaster and run coach -being self-employed and parenting through the pandemic -finding financial stability while working for yourself and handling future uncertainty -side gigs and supplementing your income -competing in and coaching collegiate basketball -Matt’s journey with running and athletics -unfinished business with the marathon -Matt’s upcoming race at CIM -measures of success This podcast is brought to you by Freedom Solar and Recover Athletics. Freedom Solar is the company I am using to go solar on my house.  When I first started looking into solar, I thought it would be a clunky and expensive process. Freedom Solar walked me through the economics of it, where if you choose financing, you can potentially be up $50 a month, every month, starting the day you turn your system on. With no downpayment required, solar not only ads value to your home and is great for the environment, but allows you to save money from day one. Freedom Solar operates in Texas, Colorado, Virginia, and Florida, but there are plenty of other great options nationwide. The buying process was fascinating and so eye opening, and I wanted to pay my learnings forward. If you’re curious, message me on Instagram or Twitter, and I’d be happy to help you get in contact with some great resources! Recover Athletics is a supporter of not only this podcast, but my own running. It was built in Boston by two lifelong training partners who got tired of aches and pains getting in the way of their running.  In 90 seconds, their app will customize a program for your body and your training. I plugged in some of my more common aches and pains, and I got a custom built program designed to strengthen the muscles and tendons that will help avoid those issues going forward.  Your first custom prehab program is free, AND they have an unlimited free trial. You can get it on the app store right now by searching "Recover Athletics" or click the link in the show notes. If you like it and want to upgrade, their premium subscription costs less than one trip to a PT. Give Recover a try today. Your legs will thank you --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forthelongrun/support

Jess Broderick is a runner, family girl, very passionate friend and a coach. Without any of those labels, Jess defines herself as “joy”. In this episode we talk about: -choosing joyful places and settling in Boulder -Jess’s professional triathlete career -helping other people achieve their goals -mental health in athletics -taking a step back from sport to prioritize mental health -finding fulfilment -retiring from elite athletics -coaching and giving back to the community -team success outweighing individual glory -the impact of different stresses on running -dealing with loss and heavy emotions -doing hard things and preserving through the lows -being vulnerable and leaning on support -running for more than PRs and fast times -learning from the struggle -putting yourself out there and taking risks -valuing relationships -dreaming bigger and the influence of the people around you Thank you to Tracksmith and Goodr for sponsoring this episode.  Tracksmith recently released their fall collection, which was designed to celebrate the seasonal shifts as we find our rhythm this fall. I’m proud to partner with Tracksmith, and they’re going to donate 5% of your order value to the Michael J Fox Foundation for all orders, and you’ll also get free shipping. The Michael J Fox Foundation is dedicated to finding a cure and helping those living with Parkinsons. Both of my grandfathers have or had Parkinsons, and I’m grateful of Tracksmith’s support for something so personal. Visit Tracksmith.com/forthelongrun to see some of my favorite pieces, and all orders that start from that page will contribute towards this donation!  Summer may have come and gone but Goodr still has the slickest shades around, for only $25 and $35. They don’t slip or bounce, and stay on my face way better than more expensive sunglasses.  If you’d like to support me and the show, treat yourself to a pair (or two or three) of Goodr and head over to Goodr.com and get 15% off your entire order with the code FTLR. That’s 15% off at goodr.com and code FTLR. Your face will thank you. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forthelongrun/support

Sara Manderscheid is a sister, daughter, dog mom, an adventurer and lover of life who also runs and coaches runners. In this episode we talk about: -discovering running as an adult -staying true and betting on yourself -challenging fears and opening yourself up to success -the Boulder running community -finding flow and fun on the run -coaching others versus coaching yourself -going big and exploring your potential -living authentically with no regrets -prioritizing the coach-athlete relationship -filling up your cup and spreading joy -small steps gaining momentum -consistency with the process -questioning you why -the people you surround yourself with -chasing big goals with fun first -running for the love of it This episode is brought to you by Tracksmith and Goodr. Tracksmith recently released their fall collection, which was designed to celebrate the seasonal shifts as we find our rhythm this fall. I’m proud to partner with Tracksmith, and they’re going to donate 5% of your order value to the Michael J Fox Foundation for all orders, and you’ll also get free shipping. The Michael J Fox Foundation is dedicated to finding a cure and helping those living with Parkinsons. Both of my grandfathers have or had Parkinsons, and I’m grateful of Tracksmith’s support for something so personal. Visit Tracksmith.com/forthelongrun to see some of my favorite pieces, and all orders that start from that page will contribute towards this donation!  Recover Athletics is a supporter of not only this podcast, but my own running. It was built in Boston by two lifelong training partners who got tired of aches and pains getting in the way of their running.  In 90 seconds, their app will customize a program for your body and your training. I plugged in some of my more common aches and pains, and I got a custom built program designed to strengthen the muscles and tendons that will help avoid those issues going forward.  Your first custom prehab program is free, AND they have an unlimited free trial. Give Recover a try today. Your legs will thank you --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forthelongrun/support

Gwen is mom to 4 year old Stanley and husband to Pat, new Boulder resident and professional athlete. She prefers to orient her identity around family rather than athletics. In this episode we talk about: -gratitude for what our bodies can do -growing up swimming and running and the pitfalls of early specialization -raising an active son -making running fun -trusting the process and understanding the purpose behind each run -including family in the training -transitioning from the highs of triathlon Olympic gold to the lows starting afresh in running -setting and achieving big goals -a team effort -what motivates Gwen Jorgensen -evolving relationships with running, data and metrics -an introvert’s approach to social media -role modelling hard work and dealing with disappointment -not caring about what other people think -fearing success more than failure -redefining success and recognizing the positives regardless of the outcome Thank you to Tracksmith and Recover Athletics for sponsoring this episode.  Tracksmith recently released their fall collection, which was designed to celebrate the seasonal shifts as we find our rhythm this fall. I’m proud to partner with Tracksmith, and they’re going to donate 5% of your order value to the Michael J Fox Foundation for all orders, and you’ll also get free shipping. The Michael J Fox Foundation is dedicated to finding a cure and helping those living with Parkinsons. Both of my grandfathers have or had Parkinsons, and I’m grateful of Tracksmith’s support for something so personal. Visit Tracksmith.com/forthelongrun to see some of my favorite pieces, and all orders that start from that page will contribute towards this donation!  Recover Athletics is a supporter of not only this podcast, but my own running. It was built in Boston by two lifelong training partners who got tired of aches and pains getting in the way of their running.  In 90 seconds, their app will customize a program for your body and your training. I plugged in some of my more common aches and pains, and I got a custom built program designed to strengthen the muscles and tendons that will help avoid those issues going forward.  Your first custom prehab program is free, AND they have an unlimited free trial. Give Recover a try today. Your legs will thank you --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forthelongrun/support

Andrea is a chiropractor, elite marathoner for Oiselle, and a dog mom. Hazel, her naughty Shiba puppy, makes her presence known with frequent interruptions, and you can follow her on Instagram @hazelraetheshiba In this episode we talk about: -Andrea’s very early beginnings in running -college recruiting decisions -team spirit and looking beyond individual success -deciding to become a chiropractor -being told you would never run again to finishing a marathon, fast! -navigating graduate studies and running -Andrea’s naughty puppy Hazel! -qualifying for the Olympic Trials -body changes and a culture of disordered eating -the consequences of under-fuelling -close relationships with mentors -asking for help and prioritizing mental health -overcoming mental demons and building back stronger -falling in and out of love with running -evolving relationships with sport and self-image -big audacious goals -strong female role models and inspiring others -a foundation of health and support Imagine a world where running injuries don’t exist and every runner stays healthy.  That's the world I want to live in and that's exactly the world Recover Athletics wants to make happen. Recover is the first prehab app for runners. It instantly generates custom prehab programs made up of strength, plyometric, and mobility exercises to help you loosen tight muscles, get stronger, and run your best. Their team designed it with top physicians and marathoners like Meb Keflezighi. It's guaranteed to make you a stronger and more injury-proof runner. If you want to fix your aches and pains, get stronger, and set PRs, go to the app store right now and download the Recover Athletics app today Thank you to Tracksmith for their support of For the Long Run Podcast. Tracksmith is a Boston-based running apparel brand, born from a desire to celebrate both the history and the evolving culture of running.  Tracksmith recently released their fall collection, which was designed to celebrate the seasonal shifts as we find our rhythm this fall.  I have been loving their van cortland long sleeve, which pairs well with the Allston half tights on a brisk fall day.  Visit Tracksmith.com/forthelongrun to see some of my favorite pieces, and all orders that start from that page will generate a 5% donation to the Michael J Fox Foundation, and you'll also get free shipping! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forthelongrun/support

Kate Grace is a middle-distance track athlete running faster than ever later in her career. She is a new Boulder resident and member of Team Boss. In this episode we talk about: -being a part of Team Boss -not taking yourself too seriously -turning off from running -the Boulder bubble -handling disappointment at the US Olympic trials -Kate Grace’s summer revenge tour -staying in the moment -the flaws of perfectionism and holding running too tight -the dark side of peak performance -relationships and mentors -coaching conversations -the pursuit of progress and continual improvement -living with integrity and staying true to yourself -playing tag to running pro -technology breaks and social media sheep -not over-sharing and feeling misunderstood -role modelling healthy, sustainable habits on and off the run Thank you to Tracksmith for their support of For the Long Run Podcast. Tracksmith is a Boston-based running apparel brand, born from a desire to celebrate both the history and the evolving culture of running.  Tracksmith recently released their fall collection, which was designed to celebrate the seasonal shifts as we find our rhythm this fall.  I have been loving their van cortland long sleeve, which pairs well with the Allston half tights on a brisk fall day.  Imagine a world where running injuries don’t exist and every runner stays healthy.  That's the world I want to live in and that's exactly the world Recover Athletics wants to make happen. Recover is the first prehab app for runners. It instantly generates custom prehab programs made up of strength, plyometric, and mobility exercises to help you loosen tight muscles, get stronger, and run your best. Their team designed it with top physicians and marathoners like Meb Keflezighi. It's guaranteed to make you a stronger and more injury-proof runner. If you want to fix your aches and pains, get stronger, and set PRs, go to the app store right now and download the Recover Athletics app today I’m proud to partner with Tracksmith, and they’re going to donate 5% of your order value to the Michael J Fox Foundation for all orders, and you’ll also get free shipping. The Michael J Fox Foundation is dedicated to finding a cure and helping those living with Parkinsons. Both of my grandfathers have or had Parkinsons, and I’m grateful of Tracksmith’s support for something so personal. Visit Tracksmith.com/forthelongrun to see some of my favorite pieces, and all orders that start from that page will contribute towards this donation (or use code FORTHELONGRUN)!  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forthelongrun/support

Kelly is a 3-peat Free Throw Shooting Champion, Philly native, and self-described goofball. Despite that grade school highlight, Kelly prefers not to be defined by her accomplishments. A dog mom and proud member of the LGBTQ community, Kelly lives life with her hopes and dreams. In this episode we talk about: -transitioning into ultra running from hiking -the allure of Western States 100 -from winning one of her first ultra races to running in Hong Kong -showing up and blowing up -imposter syndrome among elite ultra runners -finding identity in stillness -running towards hope rather than away from pain -tough races and even tougher weather -the places we go in ultras, literally and metaphorically -pushing deep, then deeper and deeper still -lessons learned from Ted Lasso -crazy long mountain ultras -goldfish -the Ouray 100 miler: a team effort -DNFs and dropping out -(not so) glamorous suffering -leaning into uncertainty -running through grief and unexpected loss I referenced this quote from the Tim McGraw song “Humble and Kind” written by Lori McKenna. “Don't take for granted the love this life gives you, when you get where you're going don't forget turn back around, and help the next one in line.” Follow Kelly on Instagram @kayoungin This episode is brought to you by Goodr.  Goodr has the slickest shades around, for only $25 and $35. They don’t slip or bounce, and stay on my face way better than more expensive sunglasses.  If you’d like to support me and the show, treat yourself to a pair (or two or three) of Goodr and head over to Goodr.com and get 15% off your entire order with the code FTLR. That’s 15% off at goodr.com and code FTLR. Your face will thank you. This episode is also brought to you by beam. Did you know you can get a subscription to beam’s dream powder? It’s what I use most nights before bed to help with a refreshing night’s sleep. When you subscribe, you’ll get the dream blend with a bunch of perks like even better pricing, free shipping, a free mug, and a drink frother just for signing up. Dream helps me wind down at night and it’s made with compounds like melatonin and magnesium that support a better night’s sleep. Make sure to use code FTLR at checkout for an extra 15% off on top of the 20% discounted monthly rate! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forthelongrun/support

Alex is a mountain athlete from the Midwest now residing in Oregon, a dog mom, and a dietitian. In this episode we talk about: -reasons to run, the good and the bad -Alex’s changing relationship with food and running -disordered eating in sport -finding joy on the run -connecting with nature -being humbled by ultra distances -opening up the mind to growth and adventure -respecting the mental side of running   -anxiety and comparison on the run and on social media -the support of therapy and coaching -belonging and being “enough” -the highs and lows of social media: an evolving relationship -handling influence and negative comments -putting yourself out there and being vulnerable -pulling back from social media for mental health -personalized nutrition -the why behind food and our related emotions -improving performance and health through nutrition -having fun with food -going after your potential with self-love and acceptance -different types of “hard” This episode is brought to you by Lyric, to help enable everybody and every body to feel better, every day. Lyric is a therapeutic massager and a home wellness companion. It’s designed for display so you won’t forget to use it, and it looks beautiful on any coffee table.  It even includes an accessory handle to find those hard to reach places, so you can massage your back, by yourself! Grab yours today for $199 at national retailers like Target, Best Buy, Bed Bath and Beyond, or REI, or get free shipping with the code FTLR at experiencelyric.com. This episode is also supported by beam. Did you know you can get a subscription to beam’s dream powder? It’s what I use most nights before bed to help with a refreshing night’s sleep. When you subscribe, you’ll get the dream blend with a bunch of perks like even better pricing, free shipping, a free mug, and a drink frother just for signing up. Dream helps me wind down at night and it’s made with compounds like melatonin and magnesium that support a better night’s sleep. Make sure to use code FTLR at checkout for an extra 15% off on top of the 20% discounted monthly rate! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forthelongrun/support

Kyle Pietari is a competitive ultra runner working full time, husband, father of 3, and expert of the daddy miles. In this episode we talk about: -early high school athletics memories -the influence of the ultra running community -competing in 100 mile races -the ugly side to ultras -metaphors in running and life -pain and struggle -appreciating the intrinsic benefits -pushing hard when nobody is watching -making hard habitual -fitting in the training around a busy life -inspiring others to achieve -setting high expectations -making training time family time -daddy miles -identity as an ultra runner -no regrets and seizing the moment -surpassing limits and exploring potential This episode is brought to you by Lyric, to help enable everybody and every body to feel better, every day. Lyric is a therapeutic massager and a home wellness companion. It’s designed for display so you won’t forget to use it, and it looks beautiful on any coffee table.  It even includes an accessory handle to find those hard to reach places, so you can massage your back, by yourself! Grab yours today for $199 at national retailers like Target, Best Buy, Bed Bath and Beyond, or REI, or get free shipping with the code FTLR at experiencelyric.com. This episode is also brought to you by beam. I absolutely love beam's products, particularly the dream powder. Did you know you can get a subscription to beam’s dream powder? It’s what I use most nights before bed to help with a refreshing night’s sleep. When you subscribe, you’ll get the dream blend with a bunch of perks like even better pricing, free shipping, a free mug, and a drink frother just for signing up. Dream helps me wind down at night and it’s made with compounds like melatonin and magnesium that support a better night’s sleep. Make sure to use code FTLR at checkout for an extra 15% off on top of the 20% discounted monthly rate! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forthelongrun/support

Tommie is a dad, husband, and runner, Tommie is also sober. His identity is continuing to evolve as he looks to positively influence those around him. In this episode we talked about: -Tommie’s sobriety journey -being more than just your accomplishments -taking on new challenges -falling in love with the process -finish line feelings -family and community -going all in and taking big risks -relating to others and sharing in the struggle -therapy and asking for help -how the training process parallels the work of staying sober -one thing at a time, mile by mile, step by step -lessons learnt from times of struggle and suffering -limits and doing the impossible -storytelling and influence -meditation and sitting still -freedom to live the best version of your life -Tommie’s path to veganism -run eat sleep repeat This episode is brought to you by Lyric, to help enable everybody and every body to feel better, every day. Lyric is a therapeutic massager and a home wellness companion. It’s designed for display so you won’t forget to use it, and it looks beautiful on any coffee table.  It even includes an accessory handle to find those hard to reach places, so you can massage your back, by yourself! Grab yours today for $199 at national retailers like Target, Best Buy, Bed Bath and Beyond, or REI, or get free shipping with the code FTLR at experiencelyric.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forthelongrun/support

Emilia Benton is a  freelance journalist writing about running, health and fitness, an avid  runner, wife and dog mom, twin with her sister Carla, and proud Latina and Houstonian. In this episode we talked about: -the New York running scene -running her first marathon in college -getting hooked on the marathon -the goal of qualifying for Boston -appreciating opportunities -training in the heat and humidity of Houston -seeking out diverse spaces and belonging -career moves and relocating -taking the leap of going freelance -pitching to Runners World -overtraining and obsession -building relationships and relating to others -being vulnerable and sharing in the struggles -persisting in running, work, and in life -shooting your shot -overcoming imposter syndrome and self doubt -self-advocacy and knowing your own value -the power of representation in all spaces: work, athletics, academia, business, media, leadership positions, and more -highlighting untold stories -lessons from the marathon This episode is brought to you by Lyric, to help enable everybody and every body to feel better, every day. Lyric is a therapeutic massager and a home wellness companion. It’s designed for display so you won’t forget to use it, and it looks beautiful on any coffee table.  It even includes an accessory handle to find those hard to reach places, so you can massage your back, by yourself! Grab yours today for $199 at national retailers like Target, Best Buy, Bed Bath and Beyond, or REI, or get free shipping with the code FTLR at experiencelyric.com. This episode is also brought to you by Goodr.  Goodr has the slickest shades around, for only $25 and $35. They don’t slip or bounce, and stay on my face way better than more expensive sunglasses.  If you’d like to support me and the show, treat yourself to a pair (or two or three) of Goodr and head over to Goodr.com and get 15% off your entire order with the code FTLR. That’s 15% off at goodr.com and code FTLR. Your face will thank you. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forthelongrun/support

Anthony is more than, in his words, just a regular average Joe. He is a mountain, trail and ultra runner who loves challenging races, a restaurant worker, nature lover, and member of the Boulder outdoor community. In this episode we talked about: -running long and running steep -growing up an unlikely runner -making big health and fitness changes -running for a better life -focusing on the moment -winning races -the allure of the 100mile race distance -mentorship and learning from others -goal setting -time on feet versus mileage -redefining limits and facing fears -happy running -racing Ouray 100 miler -problem solving on the run -finding success in the training process -community and spreading joy -taking pride in his Asian American identity This episode is brought to you by Lyric, to help enable everybody and every body to feel better, every day. Lyric is a therapeutic massager and a home wellness companion. It’s designed for display so you won’t forget to use it, and it looks beautiful on any coffee table.  It even includes an accessory handle to find those hard to reach places, so you can massage your back, by yourself! Grab yours today for $199 at national retailers like Target, Best Buy, Bed Bath and Beyond, or REI, or get free shipping with the code FTLR at experiencelyric.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forthelongrun/support

This is a special, three part episode from Endeavorun (this is part two), a running retreat that happened in Boulder in August 2021. The panel was led by Jake Tuber, with Olympian Kate Grace, writer Matt Fitzgerald, podcaster Jason Fitzgerald, and sports dietitian Lydia Nader.  Part one of the conversation can be found on Jason’s podcast called Strength Running, and part three can be found on Matt’s podcast called 80/20 Endurance Podcast. Find part one on the Strength Running Podcast hosted by Jason Fitzgerald Find part three on the 80/20 Endurance podcast hosted by Matt Fitzgerald and Hanna Hunstad In this episode we talked about: -impactful coaching conversations -showing up, levelling up, and bouncing back -attributes of effective coaches -loving the lifestyle -the process being greater than the outcome -trusting your body in training, nutrition, and beyond -allowing yourself to succeed -facing reality is hard -doing things you’re afraid of -acceptance Thanks to GU Energy Labs for sponsoring this episode. Initially known as THE energy gel company, GU now offers several different product lines designed to meet the needs of today’s athlete. It’s not just the mid run refueling option that I love, but their post run recovery protein that mixes SO well with coffee, or even the before bed magnesium and vitamin D supplement too. No other magnesium supplement has worked as well as theirs has for me. This season of running is a great time to try something new, so why not try GU? For The Long Run listeners get 20% off anything on their site with the code FTLR at guenergy.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forthelongrun/support

Carolyn Highland is a writer, teacher, outdoor enthusiast, trail runner, back-country skier and self-professed amateur dabbler in many things. Fun fact: Carolyn and Jonathan went to the same elementary school! In this episode we talked about: -always trying to have fun all of the time -pursing a love of the outdoors -doing things you thought you couldn’t do -pushing past limits -adventure -challenges in running preparing you for life -avoiding the comparison trap by staying present and focusing on the process -snack breaks and hill climbs -enduring in running and beyond -writing to connect with others -dialing in and slowing down for opportunities in the here and now -choosing to have fun -the practice of gratitude and staying present -therapy and mental health -overcoming disordered relationships with food and exercise   -feeling connected to your past and future selves -treating your body as a gift and not a punishment -taking things in chunks, mile by mile -easy is overrated, the lows make the highs sweeter -staying true to yourself and serving other people along the way You can find her writing at https://www.carolynhighland.com/ Thanks to GU Energy Labs for sponsoring this episode. Initially known as THE energy gel company, GU now offers several different product lines designed to meet the needs of today’s athlete.  It’s not just the mid run refueling option that I love, but their post run recovery protein that mixes SO well with coffee, or even the before bed magnesium and vitamin D supplement too. No other magnesium supplement has worked as well as theirs has for me.  This season of running is a great time to try something new, so why not try GU? For The Long Run listeners get 20% off anything on their site with the code FTLR at guenergy.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forthelongrun/support

Molly is more than @bygolly.molly on Instagram. She is a runner, nerd, and beer-drinking friend who loves what she does. In this episode we talked about: the unimaginable hard work required to become an Olympic bronze Medallist the highest of highs and the lowest of lows learning from the lows and keeping moving forward dealing with discouragement and disappointment and staying present big risks and big rewards finding your edge and shooting your shot being a dreamer vs being dumb crushing bitches and beating people a calm mind in an active body not being okay trust, hope, and belief that hard times don’t last letting go and living failing upward Flagstaff’s best coffee shops and cafes This episode is brought to you by Goodr.  Summer is (still) here and Goodr has the slickest shades around, for only $25 and $35. They don’t slip or bounce, and stay on my face way better than more expensive sunglasses.  If you’d like to support me and the show, treat yourself to a pair (or two or three) of Goodr and head over to Goodr.com and get 15% off your entire order with the code FTLR. That’s 15% off at goodr.com and code FTLR. Your face will thank you. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forthelongrun/support