If you start running seriously age 40 what would you be capable of achieving? For Jenny Hitchings that would include winning the Mountains 2 Beach marathon, setting an American 55-59 age group records in the 5k (18:02) and the 10 mile (1:01.20), and setting a huge PR. In this episode, Jenny explains how she was able to accomplish these feats and much more. This episode is brought to you by Run4Prs. If you want to reach your running potential you can learn more at www.run4prs.co and mention the Rambling Runner Podcast in the “how did you hear about us” section on the registration form.

What do you call a working mother of four who sets a string of PR’s and qualifies for the Olympic Trials in the marathon? A true inspiration. Sarah Bishop is one of my favorite people and one heck of an athlete. In this episode, we talk about her evolution as a runner, picking it back up in 2014, being a serial racer, setting audacious goals, and the joy she has found in coaching. You can learn more about Sarah at www.instagram.com/sarahbishopruns. You can get more info about her coaching at 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.

Three years ago Philippa Godoy was beset by anxiety and panic attacks. She was advised to start exercising for the first time in her life. Three years later, this amazing woman will be running the Berlin, Chicago, and New York City marathons in three consecutive months... after running two Under Armor Mountain races this summer! In this episode, Philippa also talks about overcoming mental obstacles, dreaming big, and the NYC running community. You can follow Philippa’s running journey at www.instagram.com/philippa_runs and www.instagram.com/harlemrun. This episode is brought to you by Run4Prs. If you want to reach your running potential you can learn learn more at www.run4prs.co and mention the Rambling Runner Podcast in the “how did you hear about us” section on the registration form.

Ebony Blackwell has big goals for herself and her community and committed on both fronts. This former officer in the Louisiana National Guard is working to complete 50 marathons in 50 states. In addition, she works full-time at an amazing youth based non-profit called You Run NOLA that teaches the value of running and community. We also discuss goal setting, parenting, and cultivating a positive/mindful mindset. You can learn more about Ebony at www.instagram.com/livinginthebreeze and www.instagram.com/youthrunnola. 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.

Robert Ressl-Moyer is one of the most amazing guests in the history of the Rambling Runner Podcast. Robert lost his younger brother to brain cancer before developing a brain tumor as well. After years of recovery Robert started running and became an elite level runner in a very short amount of time. You can learn more about this incredible man at www.instagram.com/robertcorre. This episode is brought to you by Run4Prs. If you want to reach your running potential you can learn learn more at www.run4prs.co and mention the Rambling Runner Podcast in the “how did you hear about us” section on the registration form.

When was the last time you decided to make a significant change in your life? Did you stick with it? If you’re like me, that change may not have lasted more than a couple of weeks. In this episode, Ken Des Vignes talks about how, when he was facing a significant diagnosis, he successfully turned his life around by overcoming a devastating car crash and subsequent surgeries, and how he walked for eight months before transitioning to running. After losing over 100 lbs., Ken is now a rare physical specimen, a doctor, and an inspirational figure. You can learn more about Ken at www.instagram.com/ken868. 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.

In this episode, I hand the mic, and hosting duties, over to my friend Laura Pierce while I switch roles and become this week’s guest. Many listeners have requested this episode and I finally relented. I had a blast talking with Laura about why and how I started the show, my running goals and failures, balancing the show with my job and parenting responsibilities, my favorites workouts and races, and so much more. As you’ll see, Laura is an excellent host. I can’t thank her enough for helping me with this episode and pushing me to do it in the first place.

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.

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.

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.

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.

“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.

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.

“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.

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.

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.

“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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

<p>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.&nbsp;</p> <p><br></p> <p>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.</p> <p><br></p>

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.

“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.

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/.