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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

“One who gains strength by overcoming obstacles possesses the only strength which can overcome adversity,” - Albert Schweitzer. Jessica Hadley’s running origin story is one that should be familiar to many people. She was a young mom of two, working a full-time job, and just couldn’t take it anymore. She felt like her life was too crazy and she just needed something to calm the noise. So, she took up running. Three years later she is an accomplished runner in spite of her hectic schedule. In this episode, we talk about our shared experiences in pre-5:00 a.m. runs, balancing running with young kids, and our love of 90s rap. Jessica also details her recent half marathon PR in Phoenix which included a crazy schedule that only parents of little kids can truly appreciate. You can follow Jessica at www.instagram.com/jessbug1122.

"Although the world is full of suffering, it is full also of the overcoming of it." — Helen Keller. A common saying in the running community is "run to overcome." That is exactly what Elizabeth Jansen has done. From the shocking death of her older brother, to her struggles with binge eating disorder, Elizabeth has used running to help her overcome what ails her mind, body, and soul. Along the way she has grown to love the sport for its own sake and not only for it therapeutic effects. In this candid and open conversation, Elizabeth details her struggles, running progression, and what's next for her and the sport she loves. You can learn more about Elizabeth on her website www.runningforrobert.com and on Instagram at www.instagram.com/elizabeth_healthy_life.

In this episode, I am joined by the amazing Bethany Davis. Bethany is an accomplished marathoner, coach, mother of four, and former CrossFit athlete. We talk at length about her varied experiences running and lifting before and after child birth. Including this current rendition that has allowed her to bounce back quicker than ever. We also touch on overcoming mental obstacles in races and talking big goals into existence - including her own goal of sub-3 hour marathon. You can follow Bethany at www.instagram.com/be.fit.davis and visit her website at www.befitdavis.com.

“Just when the caterpillar thought the world was ending, he turned into a butterfly.” – Proverb At first glance it looks like Mark Bottenhorn has it all. An ultra marathon winner, a former college soccer player, and a body that belongs on the cover of Men’s Health magazine. However, there is more to Mark than meets the eye. For a good part of his life he has been battling anxiety that has brought him to his knees. In this episode, Mark talks about his struggles in an open and honest way that illuminates a topic that is too often left in the dark. We also discuss his fantastic running exploits that are only getting better and better. You can follow Mark at www.instagram.com/bottenhornrunning and visit his website at www.markbottenhorn.com.

“There is a real magic in enthusiasm. It spells the difference between mediocrity and accomplishment.” - Norman Vincent Peale When I grow-up I want to be Rhandi Orme. Ultra marathon winner, OCR racer, 3:13 marathoner, Ironman finisher, and trail runner extraordinaire. Did I mention she is also a mother of four kids under the age of 12? Her athletic accomplishments are the result of good genes and a super-human enthusiasm for life. Learn how she has accomplished so much while balancing her athletic endeavors with a rich home life. You can follow Rhandi at www.instagram.com/run_rhandi_run.

Tyler Underwood is a beast! How else can you describe someone who went from a 4:12 marathon to a 2:18 - which is an Olympic Trials qualifier? His journey to that elite status included a lot of help from friends and family, but not a coach. We talk a lot about who he relies on, and who he doesn’t. Tyler also discusses the right mindset that he acquired about five years ago that helped to unleash his potential. As successful as he has been, the future is even brighter for this dedicated amateur runner. In fact, he might not be an amateur for much longer! You can learn more about Tyler at www.thecarboload.com.

“The average person puts only 25% of his energy and ability into his work. The world takes off its hat to those who put in more than 50% of their capacity, and stands on its head for those few and far between souls who devote 100%.” - Andrew Carnegie The best way to describe Lindsey Welter is to say that she is pure energy. She has transformed herself from a competitive dancer who hated running high school cross country into an amazing endurance athlete. In less than 10 years since she started running seriously she has completed eight half-marathons, six full marathons, five Ironman 70.3 triathlons, and three full Ironman triathlons. She has done all of this while holding down a job and starting a coaching business. Her infectious energy and positivity are on full display in this episode. You can learn more about Lindsey on Instagram at www.instagram.com/Linzanityfit or on her website www.linzanityfit.wordpress.com.

Toni DiRenzo is a former college soccer player turned dedicated amateur runner and coach. In this episode, we dive into her conversion to running and her current running successes and struggles. After running the Chicago Marathon last fall she has been dealing with plantar fasciitis. This is an issue that confronts many runners and we discuss it at length. We finish up the episode with a segment of Coach’s Corner. Toni and I really hit it off in this episode and I hope you enjoy what you hear.

“Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.” - C.S. Lewis Melissa Becker (@motherrunnermel) is one of the toughest and most inspirational people I know. She dedicated herself to running five years ago and has set PR’s year after year. But, there is far more to Melissa than mere races times. She has, and continues to, overcome health issues that have affected her and her young daughter. Her story is one that has gained an incredible following, and it is easy to see why so many people are rooting for Melissa in every aspect of her life.

On December 3, 2017 Molly Friel did something that many would call impossible: she qualified for the Olympic Trrials in the marathon at age 50. At the California International Marathon she completed the race in a blistering time 2:43:57, averaging a 6:15/mi pace. Not only that, she almost even-split the course after a first-half time of 1:21:54. In this episode of the Rambling Runner Podcast, we talk about how she approached this race, executed it to perfection, and her injury plagued build-up to race day. We also discuss her amazing career, including a ten year stretch of injuries that separated her first Olympic Trials Qualifier from her latest that would have ended many athlete’s professional careers. I hope you enjoy this episode with one of America’s best, and most interesting, elite runners.

In this episode of The Rambling Runner Podcast, I speak with professional runner Kaitlin Gregg Goodman. Kaitlin set her 10K, half marathon, and marathon personal records in 2017. We dive into those experiences as well as how she bounced back from her disappointing performance at the USATF Outdoor Track Championships. Lastly, we also talk about Kaitlin’s rise to prominence as a runner. She did not have the traditional accomplishments that many of her contemporaries did, like high school championships and all-american honors. Instead, Kaitlin improved year-after-year and eventually earned her place as one of the best American runners. We introduce a new feature on the podcast called “Coach’s Corner” in which I ask Kaitlin three questions that affect many dedicated amateur runners. I hope you enjoy this episode and happy running! You can learn more about Kaitlin, her blog, and her coaching services at www.trainingjoyfully.com.

“When you are enthusiastic about what you do, you feel this positive energy. It’s very simple.” - Paulo Coelho Tiffany James progressed from a 4:29 marathon in 2014 to a Boston Marathon qualifying time of 3:27 in 2017. Not bad for someone who used to skip-out on high school gym class. In this episode, Tiffany talks about her progression from occasional athlete, to runner, to running enthusiast and professional running marketer. She also details how she bounced back from barely missing her goal of qualifying for Boston, and all of the emotions wrapped up in that near miss, to set a PR in her next marathon. Finally, Tiffany, whose website is www.runningforcarbs.com, and I talk about our favorite thing - carbs! I hope you enjoy this episode and happy running!

In 2017, Nick Symmonds chose to transform from one of running's most recognizable professionals (with two Olympic appearances and a silver medal at the World Championships in the 800m) to an amatuer attempting his first marathon. Not only that, but he did it in typical Nick Symmonds fashion - by being as transparent as possible every step of the way. In this episode of the Rambling Running Podcast, we talk about Nick's recent announcement that he will be running the Eugene Marathon, his previous and upcoming marathon training, and how he'd compare the pain of a marathon to the agony of a lactic acid producing 800m race. Nick also details how and why he started Run Gum and what his role as CEO entails. Enter to win a 4-Day, 3-Night Ultimate Running Experience capped with running the 2018 Eugene Marathon with Nick Symmonds by going to www.rungum.com.

“Stay true to yourself. An original is worth more than a copy.” - Suzy Kassem Patrick Cutter may be the most unique dedicated amateur runner I have interviewed on the show. Last week at the Chevron Houston Marathon he set a personal record by running to 2:35.23. However, if you ever see a picture of Patrick during that race you would never guess he was that level of runner. At 5’10” and 180 pounds he looks more like a star football player than a sub-elite marathoner. In this episode, we break down his most recent performance and talk about how his training has evolved in recent years - including how he prepared for 16 marathons in the last five years despite having a limited running background prior to 2012. Patrick also discusses his weightlifting routine and why he prioritizes strength training in a way that is at odds with conventional wisdom. You can follow Patrick’s running updates at www.instagram.com/irun26point2__.

“Strength and growth come only through continuous effort and struggle.” - Napoleon Hill   As the owner the Strength2Run and the Athlete Factory, Christina Wood lives the words of her business. However, as physically strong as she is, her mental and emotional strength is what allows her to do amazing things. In this episode, Christina talks about overcoming her father’s cancer diagnosis, and passing, in her early 20’s. She turned to running in the midst of that pain and sorrow and has never looked back. Today she is marathoner, triathlete, and coach. Beyond that, she has shown that by continually moving forward you can overcome and achieve. Learn more about Christina’s coaching service at www.strength2run.com.

In 2013 Natalie Hopkins was hit by a car while riding her bike. This accident left her with numerous screws, and a couple of plates, in her leg as well as a significant brain injury. Yet, exactly one year later she was at the starting line of the Boston Marathon and ran it 12 seconds faster than she had two years earlier. In this episode, Natalie talks about that experience as well as her background as a Division I swimmer at Syracuse and how she overcame depression through running after her swimming career came to an end. 2017 was a breakout year for Natalie. We discuss her unique training methods that allowed her to run the 2017 Marine Corps marathon in 3:05 and how self-reflection put her in the right state of mind to capitalize on her increased fitness. As you’ll here, Natalie is a ball of energy and it’s easy to see why she can balance her training with her career as a fitness professional. You can learn more about Natalie on her website www.betterstrongertougher.com.

In this episode of the Rambling Runner Podcast I am privileged to be joined by the best endurance sport author of this generation - Matt Fitzgerald. Matt has written dozens of influential books including two of my favorites “How Bad Do You Want It“ and “Iron War.“ We dive into each of those books as well as his fascinating experience training full-time with the NAZ Elite running team before setting a PR, and finishing top-5 in his age group, at the Chicago Marathon. You can read his blog detailing that experience and his current training at http://finalsurge.com/seriouslyamateur. Also check out Matt’s new home on the internet http://8020endurance.com.

“Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which [s]he has overcome.” - Booker T. Washington I can’t think of a better quote that encapsulates Liz Ferro’s rise and her impact on others. After going through the foster care system as a toddler Liz was sexually assaulted as an 8 year old. The trauma she experienced led her to create the non-profit Girls With Sole. This wonderful organization, which has been chronicled by USA Today and the Today Show, helps girls ages 9-18 overcome abuse through exercise and community. Liz has completed marathons in all 50 states, completed four Ironman triathlons, and run on the Great Wall of China. In other words, she walks-the-walk. I hope you enjoy this inspiring episode with one of the most special people I have ever met. Learn more about Liz and Girls With Sole at www.girlswithsole.org.