The Rambling Runner Podcast

In this episode, I dive into the importance of strength training for runners with Brodie Sharpe. We explore how strength training can enhance running performance and discuss the balance between injury prevention and performance improvement. Brodie shares insights from research and personal experience, emphasizing the role of strength training in improving running economy and efficiency. Brodie Sha...

In this episode, April Berg of The Aruna Project shares her inspiring journey from college athlete to activist fighting human trafficking. Discover the impactful work of transforming lives through ethical fashion manufacturing and holistic rescue programs. Main Topics The mission and holistic approach of The Aruna Project in combating human trafficking Personal background: college sports, nursing,...

In this episode, Justin Hetherington shares his inspiring journey from childhood struggles and a fear of sports to becoming a dedicated ultra runner. Dive into his insights on mental resilience, race variety, and why pushing limits is a personal growth catalyst. Main topics: Justin's transformation from a non-athlete to ultramarathon enthusiast The psychological aspects of endurance running and ov...

In this episode, Claire Bartholic shares her inspiring journey from running a sub-3:00 marathon despite starting her running journey later in life to redefining her relationship with running, emphasizing the importance of joy, adaptability, and perspective as athletes age. We explore how athletes can find fulfillment beyond peak performance and embrace new goals at any stage of life. Main topics c...

Prepare to be inspired by Dr. Kathryn Zioto, a remarkable athlete balancing a busy medical career, motherhood, and ultra-distance running. In this episode, she shares her incredible journey, including running the double Boston Marathon, her insights on mental resilience, and how her diverse background in figure skating, road, and trail running shapes her approach to challenges. Discover how priori...

Discover Hildee Weiss's inspiring story of late-life fitness, self-belief, and overcoming self-doubt to become an active runner and author. In this episode, Hildee shares her candid journey from a sedentary lifestyle to embracing health, all while balancing a large family and personal challenges. Main Topics Covered: Hildee Weiss's motivation to write her memoir about her fitness transformation Ho...

In this episode, Kelsey Boyer shares her inspiring journey from competitive snowboarding and traumatic brain injury to embracing marathon running and advocacy. Her story highlights resilience, self-advocacy, and the power of neuro-recovery. Key Topics Kelsey's background as a competitive snowboarder and early involvement in the sport The severity and impact of her brain injury, including the emerg...

In this episode, Amy Crain shares her inspiring journey as a master marathon runner, highlighting how mental shifts, smart training, and a love for the sport propel her to consistent high-level performances well into her 40s. Last month Amy finished third in the 45-49 age group, and first American, at the Boston Marathon! Whether you're an aspiring master runner or simply love running, Amy’s insig...

In this episode, Laura Pifer shares her remarkable journey from her early days of national record performances in high school to running her first marathon at age 40, culminating in a third-place finish at the Masters Division at the Boston Marathon. We delve into her life balancing family, her creative endeavors with sewing and upcycling, and her fresh approach to running in her 40s. Also, Laura...

Join us as Esteban Trujillo shares his inspiring story of returning to marathon running after a seven-year break, fueled by a passion for pushing limits and defying age. From his Oregon cross country days to ultra-competitive Masters racing, Esteban's journey highlights resilience, strategic training, and living the sport authentically. In this episode: Esteban's early days at Oregon with stars li...

Discover how top ultra runner Damian Hall challenges age-related decline in his new book Run Forever: The Secrets to Becoming an Ageless Athlete. Damian's book includes exhaustive research into many topics that can help runners of all abilities and ages. This episode dives into science-backed strategies for runners looking to stay strong and motivated. In this episode: Damian Hall's journey from l...

In this episode we learn how to unlock the power of running as a source of joy, community, and meaningful impact. Jess Sikorski shares her personal transformation of using running in a way that negatively affected her health to running with purpose for charity and mental health. Key Topics: Jess's journey from health struggles to joyful running The evolution of her big "why" for running The import...

In his newest book, The Long Run: Steve Prefontaine, Frank Shorter, Joan Benoit, Grete Waitz, and the Decade That Made the Marathon Cool, U.S. Track & Field Foundation board member, life-long runner, high school track coach, and bestselling author Martin Dugard takes us through the historical moments that sparked the running boom across America, including Frank Shorter’s Olympic marathon win in 19...

Catch the remarkable story of Bill Volpe, who at age 60, achieved a Boston Marathon qualifying time and 3:11 marathon, after starting his running journey at 52. His disciplined approach to training, nutrition, and mental resilience exemplifies that age is just a number when it comes to athletic achievement. In this episode: Bill’s initial foray into running and how he transitioned from no running...

Join us as Dan Montgomery shares his remarkable evolution from casual runner to competitive marathoner over 25 years - including a blistering 3:11:53 at the McKirdy Micro Marathon at 51 years old! Discover how disciplined training, strategic nutrition, and unwavering commitment transformed his body and performance. This episode offers valuable insights for runners of all levels aiming for continuo...

Discover how Jesse Gauf turned his life around within a year, shedding over 100 pounds and conquering marathon distances, all while sharing his progress openly online. This episode explores the mental shifts, practical strategies, and community support behind his transformation. In this episode: Jesse recounts his fitness journey starting from Navy days to weight ballooning over 340 pounds Emphasi...

In this episode, we explore Lottie Bildirici’s inspiring journey from battling stress fractures and bone health issues to smashing personal marathon records. She shares her insights on injury prevention, mental resilience, and how purposeful nutrition fuels peak performance.  Main Topics: Lottie's background in endurance sports and overcoming stress fractures The impact of nutrition and strength t...

Discover the remarkable story of Wilbur Vale — from struggling with his health and weight as a child to becoming a dedicated runner and advocate for holistic wellness. In this episode, Wilbur shares how faith, community, and resilience propelled his transformation and how he uses his journey to inspire others to live healthier and meaningful lives. Key Topics: Wilbur’s pivotal moment: a challengin...

Last weekend, Nick Lee set the fastest known time on the Cape Cod Traverse, self-supported -male. He finished the 64.6 mile route in 11:06:54. Nick is a longtime friend and I couldn’t wait to talk to him about the effort and the training/planning that led into it.  You can view the effort here: https://fastestknowntime.com/route/cape-cod-traverse-ma Sponsors Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one th...

Canyon Woodward has progressed from casual runner during his college years to one of the best trail and ultra runners in the world. It is a remarkable rise for a Harvard educated political operative who balances a calm equanimity with a passion for competition. In this episode, Canyon describes his rise from living at the doorstep of the Appalachian trail to a Western States golden ticket. Sponsor...

In this powerful conversation, Patrick Yalon shares his transformative experience after a near-fatal surfing accident, exploring how a life-altering event can redefine purpose, self-love, and spiritual connection. His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound lessons learned through endurance races and inner reflection. Here’s the iRunFar article mentioned in the...

In this episode, Abdul Said shares his transformative journey from a sedentary lifestyle and health scare to running his first marathon in Osaka. Discover how he shifted his perspective on food, incorporated running into his daily routine, and embraced the vibrant Japanese running culture along the way. You can follow Abdul at www.instagram.com/osakamiles. Sponsors Mount to Coast - Explore the H1,...

The Black Canyon 100k is knows as one of the best and fasted 100k trail races in America. And for good reason. The list of elite athletes in the top 10 every year is talented and experienced. But what is this like for a dedicated amateur runner? Dr. Jess Mena returns to the show to talk about her experience on the Black Canyon course, how difficult the final 2/3 of the race course, the "trauma bon...

Discover how Laken transformed her life from weighing 290 pounds to conquering a half marathon in 2:05 (9:34 pace). Dive into her mindset shifts, actionable habits, and the power of perseverance that can inspire anyone on their health and fitness journey. You can follow Laken at www.instagram.com/laken_40. Sponsors Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of...

In this episode, Dr. Sara Tanza breaks down the complex world of pelvic floor anatomy, its crucial role in running and overall health, and how to proactively care for this often-overlooked muscle group before, during, and after pregnancy. She also talks about how this is an issue for all athletes, not just women. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or medical professional, learn why addressing pelvi...