The Alchemical Life

Summary Zach Powell joins today to share his stories and insights training in various athletic disciplines (bodybuilding, ultra marathons, Hyrox, weightlifting, etc). Not only that, but most of his training has been while navigating a full time coaching job and being a father to two littles. You can live a busy life and train hard. You can train for more than one type of race or goal. Find out how...

 Summary Jared Lawrence is a coach, businessman, and Hyrox Worlds competitor. Today he breaks down strategies for each zone (yes, even the dang sled), provides insights on his own training for worlds, and chats about how he navigates his training block while running a business.  Follow jared on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlawrencetraining/  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jared Lawrence a...

What does it actually take to run a 2:39 marathon while balancing a full-time career and raising four kids? Today I chat with marathoner and running coach Justin Cannon to break down his marathon evolution and current training to lead him into his 2:38 marathon goal.  Psychology, nutrition, weekly mileage, quality sessions, strength training, adapting training to life stressors...ALL are topics co...

Summary Let's get controversial, shall we? Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Controversial Fitness Trends 02:01 The Debate on GLP-1s for Runners 05:23 Training Fasted vs. Fed: The Nutrition Dilemma 07:28 The Importance of Strength Training for Runners 07:57 Warm-Ups: Are They Really Necessary? 10:06 Electrolytes: Essential or Overrated? 12:39 Fueling for Runs: When is it Necessary? 14:35 Carbon...

Summary In this episode, we're talking PCOS, running form, fiber intake, nutrition timing around runs, and how to program speed work inside an endurance block. And I want to make a case for mid-distance running — it doesn't get enough love and honestly it might be exactly what you need. If you've been dealing with any of this and wondering how to keep training through it, this one&a...

Summary: Online vs. in-person coaching — which to pick??! In this episode, I'm breaking down both sides so you can figure out what actually makes sense for you . Along with RED FLAGS to watch out for when finding the next coach you decide to work with. MY COACHING: https://r.newie.app/fz5ve7j05jk8 MY WEBSITE:  www.alchemical-training.com   DISCOVER YOUR PROGRAM: https://www.alchemical-trainin...

Summary TODAY IS A Q&A!!!! Stick around for: advice on fueling as a young athlete, transitioning from group classes to training alone, plyometric exercises for runners, managing back pain while running, balancing strength training with endurance goals AND MORE.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Alchemical Life Podcast 00:51 Fueling Young Athletes 02:44 Training with Blaine's Program 04:...

SOME UPDATES + the real reason your hamstrings are always tight/in pain and how to fix it. We get a little nerdy, but by the end of the episode you will understand how the hamstring functions, how to train it to handle all your runs, and how strength training can make your hamstrings more flexible.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 04:06 Understanding Hamstring Pain 08:59 Strength...

SUMMARY Today we talk all things core. A short and practical conversation on WHAT the core actually is, the core’s function, and how you can start training it in a way that transfers positively to your running.  CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Core Training 01:46 Understanding the Core: Myths and Facts 03:41 The Function of the Core in Running 05:51 The Role of Hip Flexors and Adductors 07:23 Apply...

To train or not to train, that is the question...we answer today! Are you making excuses by "listening to your body", or is there real merit in pulling the plug on a training day (or week)? I struggle with this all the time in my own training, and SO MANY of my conversations with clients revolve around this very topic. Today, I break down what warrants some real downtime and what is fine...

This episode breaks down the process of taking two of my running clients through an evaluation and training to improve their hamstring, calf, and achilles pain that bugged them for months. Don't let pain stop you from chasing your goals! MY COACHING: https://r.newie.app/fz5ve7j05jk8 MY WEBSITE:  www.alchemical-training.com   DISCOVER YOUR PROGRAM: https://www.alchemical-training.com/quiz   MY...

Episode 67 is all about FEAR. Doing things that scare you... I can't tell you how many events, opportunities, or races I have backed out of due to fear. So many setbacks and "wasted time" because I was stuck in my own fear and indecision. I'm breaking down one of the scariest things I've done and the steps to take to conquer the thing you're afraid of starting NOW. CH...

Summary: It’s a Q&A!!!! Do you want to know how to incorporate core training like a COACH?  Program plyos as an endurance/hybrid athlete without wrecking yourself?! Learn the warmup structure I actually use for different sessions? + more?! Well go on then, listen up! Let’s have a chat. Some Important Topics: Structuring Core Work Discusses how to effectively structure core workouts for differe...

Let's run.it.back!!!! A fan favorite from 2025, so I decided to carry it into 2026.  If you're an endurance athlete who feels chronically trashed, your 'sports-specific' routine might actually be the thing holding you back. In this episode, we dive into the nuances of stimulus management. Your body adapts differently depending on the stimulus you give it, BUT it really cares ab...

Summary In this episode, I'm breaking down how recovery might be the greatest tool you AREN’T taking advantage of in your training to see MASSIVE progress. How and why sleep, nutrition, and hydration aren't negotiable if you want to actually adapt and get stronger. I also share what's been going on with my own training lately, why I finally hired a coach (and why you probably should...

**I said 3:17 in the podcast, I meant 3:13 for Stephanie's marathon PR!** Summary In episode 61 of The Alchemical Life podcast, you guys can use my athlete breakdown of my client Stephanie Liles-Weyant to give you insight on how to overcome injury and achieve remarkable success in endurance sports, just like she did. I share my approach as a strength coach, the importance of movement evaluati...

Bringing this episode back for an end of year REVIST because it is one that you could listen to over and over again and get helpful tips each time. Alec Blenis is a Murph world record holder, lifter, 2:40 marathoner, and hyrbid coach. He is just as smart as he is athletic, and I learn from him every time we chat. Give it a listen. Alec instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alecblenis/ Alec Youtube:...

Tis the season for FAMILY TIMEEEEE. Let's have some mommy daughter time, shall we? Today my mom joins me to talk about her witnessing my struggles, her honest thoughts on me moving to Iceland, and how she feels about me coming back to my faith. MY COACHING: https://r.newie.app/fz5ve7j05jk8 MY WEBSITE:  www.alchemical-training.com   DISCOVER YOUR PROGRAM: https://www.alchemical-training.com/qu...

BONUS EPISODE!!! Kat is back on the podcast to share how one of her hardest times led to a future she couldn't have even imagined. A story filled with heartbreak, rehab, debt, and faith. If you are going through a hard season, this podcast acts as a message of encouragement. Keep having faith - it gets better. MY COACHING: https://r.newie.app/fz5ve7j05jk8 MY WEBSITE:  www.alchemical-training....

Summary The first official segment of The Alchemical Life Podcast - ALCHEMICAL OFF ROAD!! I chat about my personal journey in developing authority and autonomy in both coaching and athletic pursuits. What does it mean to be confident? How to know when it's time to quiet some of the outside noise and trust yourself and your skills? How do you find your place in the industry you're in? As...

In this episode, I cover a common issue my clients come to me with: they stretch but are still ALWAYS TIGHT. Well, the solution to tight muscles isn't always stretching, and I'll tell ya why. MY COACHING: https://r.newie.app/fz5ve7j05jk8 MY WEBSITE:  www.alchemical-training.com   DISCOVER YOUR PROGRAM: https://www.alchemical-training.com/quiz   MY SOCIALS: instagram: www.instagram.com/ab...

Summary Let's talk about the often-unspoken mental toll of rigorous training this week. The relentless demands of intense physical regimens can overshadow every other aspect of life, leading to profound stress, exhaustion, and a diminished presence in personal and professional spheres. And of course, all the BONUSES that come from forced (or chosen) rest.  MY COACHING: https://r.newie.app/fz5...

You may hear all the time that runners need to strength train, but why? What physiologically is happening in the body that contributes positively to someone's running? Find out in this episode!  Introduction to Strength Training - 00:00:00 Physiological Benefits of Strength Training - 00:03:00 Strength Training for Runners - 00:09:00 Tendon Training and Its Importance - 00:15:00 Bone Density...

Keeping it real.  Have you ever used exercise to calm your mind? Ever used it to escape? Ever overdone it? Are you feeling like you're stuck in this constant cycle of recovering and cannot seem to handle hard training like you should be able to? How about brain fog or depression or anxiety?  This episode is my own health update, but you may need to hear it too. MY COACHING: https://r.newie.ap...

The ultimate guide to vet ANY coach and ensure your investment is going to the right person.  MY COACHING: https://r.newie.app/fz5ve7j05jk8 MY WEBSITE:  www.alchemical-training.com   DISCOVER YOUR PROGRAM: https://www.alchemical-training.com/quiz   MY SOCIALS: instagram: www.instagram.com/abigail.crowe business instagram: www.instagram.com/alchemicaltraining Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shar...