The Rambling Runner

In this conversation, Ernest Holly shares his transformative journey from being a 260-pound man to a dedicated runner who has lost over 100 pounds and changed his life in the process. He discusses the impact of the pandemic on his decision to start running, the importance of community and support, and how he set and achieved his athletic goals. Ernest also delves into the dietary changes he made, the challenges of balancing family meals, and the profound experiences he had during The Speed Project. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the mental, emotional, and spiritual growth that comes from running and living a healthy lifestyle. You can follow Ernest at www.instagram.com/ern_n_burn. Sponsors ASICS - Checkout the amazingly versatile Superblast 2 and Novablast 5 that can each propel you through all of your runs, no matter the distance or speed, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.asics.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Boulderthon - Named among the Top 10 races in the U.S. by USA Today and one of the Best Fall Marathons by Runner

Dr. Jess Mena, DPT is back on the podcast. She has brought her trademark wit, laughter, and excitement to talk about transitioning from only running on roads, and qualifying for Boston in the process, to embracing the trail full-time (and everything that goes along with that change.) You can follow Jess at www.instagram.com/tempo_with_jess. Sponsors ASICS - Checkout the amazingly versatile Superblast 2 and Novablast 5 that can each propel you through all of your runs, no matter the distance or speed, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.asics.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Boulderthon - Named among the Top 10 races in the U.S. by USA Today and one of the Best Fall Marathons by Runner’s World, Boulderthon, is quickly becoming a must-run event for runners across the country. Whether you’re up for a 5K, 10K, half-marathon, or the marathon, Boulderthon offers a race for every level of runner. Sign up today at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Boulderthon.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use code Rambling20 for $20 off the 13.1 or 26.2! See you in Boulder! Learn more about your ad choices. Visi

In this episode, Matt Chittim welcomes back James McKirdy to discuss the upcoming Breaking 4 marathon. They delve into the significance of the race, which aims to celebrate athletes who break the four-hour barrier, and the personalized support and pacing strategies that will be provided. The conversation also covers the course details, inclusivity for all runners, and future plans for more events. Breaking 4 is set to offer total "in-race support." Runners will have access to your personal bottles every lap, a tangent line because at 4-hour pace every extra 1/4 mile adds 2+ minutes to a finish time, and a shared $10,000 prize purse for all of the athletes who break the 4 hour barrier equally. The event as welcoming as possible and will be offering pace groups in specific times: 3:40, 3:50, 4:00, 4:10. To make sure the race goes smoothly they will host zoom calls throughout the training segment so that any participating athlete can gain the knowledge they need from the industry's top minds in nutrition

In this engaging conversation, Matt Chittim reconnects with Bethany Davis, an athlete with a diverse background in endurance running and strength training. They discuss the rise of hybrid athletes, the importance of strength training for injury prevention, and the joy of finding fun in fitness. Bethany shares her experiences with social fitness, goal setting, and the significance of community in maintaining motivation. They also touch on the importance of strength training for women, overcoming intimidation in the gym, and the future of hybrid training. You can follow Bethany at www.instagram.com/be.fit.davis. Sponsors ASICS - Checkout the amazingly versatile Superblast 2 that will propel you through all of your runs, no matter the distance or speed, at ⁠⁠⁠www.asics.com⁠⁠⁠. Peregrune - I've been using Peregrune supplements, including their Runner Multivitamin and Runner Joint, everyday since 2023 and for good reason. They are NSF and third-party tested. They are also for runner, created by ru

In this episode, Matt Chittim interviews Carrie Tollefson, a generational talent on the track and professional broadcaster, about the newly established Grand Slam Track. They discuss the significance of this league for athletes, the comparison with the Diamond League, and the evolving landscape of professional running. Carrie shares her insights on the importance of prize money, the role of content creation for athletes, and the challenges and expectations surrounding the league. They also touch on emphasizing the need for a supportive community, the importance of showcasing athletes' stories, and the potential for multi-sport athletes to thrive in this new environment. Sponsors ASICS - Checkout the upcoming Novablast 5 and pre-order this amazing shoe at ⁠⁠www.asics.com⁠⁠. Peregrune - I've been using Peregrune supplements, including their Runner Multivitamin and Runner Joint, everyday since 2023 and for good reason. They are NSF and third-party tested. They are also for runner, created by runners.

In this conversation, Matt and Patrick Reaves explore Patrick's layered running career, including his experiences at the Boston Marathon, his peak moments qualifying for the Olympic Trials, and the training philosophies that have shaped his journey. He discusses the mental challenges of being sidelined after the Trials, returning to the 2025 Boston Marathon and finishing 8th in the 40-44 age division, the adjustments he made to his training and goals, and how he found new competitive outlets in masters running. Patrick also reflects on the importance of embracing change in his running life, especially as he prepares for fatherhood and the impact it will have on his athletic pursuits. Sponsors ASICS - Checkout the upcoming Novablast 5 and pre-order this amazing shoe at ⁠www.asics.com⁠. Peregrune - I've been using Peregrune supplements, including their Runner Multivitamin and Runner Joint, everyday since 2023 and for good reason. They are NSF and third-party tested. They are also for runner, cre

In this conversation, Henry Abbott discusses his transition from sports media to writing a book on injury prevention, "Ballistic: The New Science of Injury-Free Athletic Performance." Blending cutting-edge science with gripping storytelling, award-winning data journalist and competitive amateur athlete Henry Abbott reveals that we are on the cusp of a new era in sports medicine, built around the science of ballistic movements―leaping and landing―and the unique fingerprint of your body’s physics. Abbott’s inspiring narrative tells the story of sports scientist Dr. Marcus Elliott and the Peak Performance Project (P3), who use technology to study how athletes move and why they get hurt. Applying machine learning and lessons from biomechanics, medicine, and physiology, doctors at P3 can now detect elevated risk of an ACL tear or a pulled hamstring like an echocardiogram can see warning signs of a heart attack. Their data-driven findings are full of surprises. Your body’s most important defense against knee an

In this conversation, Kristin Johnson shares her inspiring journey from a first-time 3:59 marathoner to achieving a sub-three-hour marathon. She discusses her early experiences with running, the challenges of balancing motherhood and training, and the importance of community in her running journey. Kristin reflects on her training methods, the emotional highs and lows of racing, and the lessons learned along the way, particularly in relation to setting and achieving ambitious goals. You can follow Kristin at www.instagram.com/baby2boston. Sponsors ASICS - Checkout the upcoming Novablast 5 and pre-order this amazing shoe at www.asics.com. Peregrune - I've been using Peregrune supplements, including their Runner Multivitamin and Runner Joint, everyday since 2023 and for good reason. They are NSF and third-party tested. They are also for runner, created by runners. Save 15% on your purchase at www.peregrune.com by using code "RAMBLING" at checkout. Boulderthon - Named among the Top 10 races in the U.S. by

In this conversation, best-selling author and endurance coach Matt Fitzgerald discusses his new book "Chasing Mastery: 25 Lessons to Cultivate Your Full Potential in Endurance Sports." Matt emphasizes the importance of self-regulation, the role of genetics, and the impact of environment on athletic development. He also shares insights on the psychological aspects of training, the significance of context, and the 80-20 principle in endurance training. Finally, Matt highlights that mastery is not solely about mileage but encompasses a holistic approach to improvement and the necessity of seeking help from experts. Here is the link for Matt's book on Amazon. Sponsors ASICS - Checkout the upcoming Novablast 5 and pre-order this amazing shoe at www.asics.com. Peregrune - I've been using Peregrune supplements, including their Runner Multivitamin and Runner Joint, everyday since 2023 and for good reason. They are NSF and third-party tested. They are also for runner, created by runners. Save 15% on your pur

In this engaging conversation, Haftu Knight shares his remarkable journey from Ethiopia to becoming one of the fastest marathoners in US history. He discusses his recent success at the McKirdy Micro Marathon where he ran 2:09:38. That performance made him the 22nd fastest marathoner in US history and the fastest Texas marathoner ever (he broke Alan Culpepper's record by five seconds). In this episode we talk about the strategies he employed during races,, his time at a elite athlete at the University of Texas, and the influence of his coach Jeff Cunningham. Haftu reflects on his training regimen, the importance of family and community, and his aspirations for the future, including competing in the Olympics. His story is one of resilience, hard work, and the pursuit of excellence. Sponsors ASICS - Checkout the upcoming Novablast 5 and pre-order this amazing shoe at www.asics.com. Peregrune - I've been using Peregrune supplements, including their Runner Multivitamin and Runner Joint, everyday since 2023 and

Fresh off breaking 2:10 at the McKirdy Marathon and setting the Austrian National Record, Aaron Gruen joins us to share his remarkable journey as an runner and international caliber musician, discussing the balance between his rigorous training, medical school, and music career. He reflects on the importance of mentorship and how it has shaped his running. Aaron emphasizes the significance of the process in both running and music, the challenges he faced in races, and his aspirations to represent Austria on the national stage. He also delves into the personal meaning behind his tri-citizenship and the legacy of his ancestors. Takeaways Running is a crucial part of Aaron's life, impacting him mentally and emotionally. Mentorship plays a vital role in personal and athletic development. The process of training is as important as the end result. Balancing multiple passions can lead to greater fulfillment. Aaron's journey reflects the importance of consistency in both music and athletics. Overcoming challe

Sarah Crouch was one of the best American long-distance runners of the 2010's and has transitioned to best-selling novelist. During her collegiate career at Western Washington University, she was an NCAA Division II All-American thirteen times and won the 2011 NCAA Division II National Championship in the 10,000m. In one of her first races as a professional runner, she finished fifth at the U.S. 10 Mile Championships. In 2011, she made her marathon debut in New York and qualified for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, and in 2012, she qualified for the U.S. Olympic Trials in the 10,000m. Sarah finished 7th at the 2014 Chicago Marathon, 9th at 2016, and the top American in 2018 despite have a benign tumor removes from her quad a few weeks before the race. You can buy her debut novel, Middletide, wherever books are sold and it is also available as an audiobook. Sponsors ASICS - Checkout the upcoming Novablast 5 and pre-order this amazing shoe at www.asics.com. Peregrune - I've been using Peregrune supplem

Today on the “My Favorite Workout” series we are joined by Erika Kemp. Erika is a 6 x All-American at NC State and a 2 x U.S. Champ (15k and 20k). She is also the fastest U.S. born black woman in the marathon and has 12th fastest time in the marathon all-time by a U.S. woman. Erika is currently based in Providence, R.I. and sponsored by Brooks In this episode, she breaks down her favorite tempo and speed workouts. Sponsors ASICS - Checkout the upcoming Novablast 5 and pre-order this amazing shoe at www.asics.com. Peregrune - I've been using Peregrune supplements, including their Runner Multivitamin and Runner Joint, everyday since 2023 and for good reason. They are NSF and third-party tested. They are also for runner, created by runners. Save 15% on your purchase at www.peregrune.com by using code "RAMBLING" at checkout. Rambling Runner Resources Personalized Coaching - Are you looking to work with a running coach? I am here for you! I've been working with runners of all ages and abilities for five ye

The “My Favorite Workout” series is back and we are joined by Nathan Martin. Nathan is one of the best American runners from the 10 mile up to the marathon. He finished 7th at the 2024 Olympic Trials Marathon, PR'd the half marathon last weekend at the U.S. Championships where he finished 9th. Nathan holds fastest marathon clocked by a Black man born in the United States. The previous best was by Herman Atkins in 2:11:52 in 1979. In this episode, Nathan breaks down his favorite threshold workout and his favorite marathon workout. Sponsors ASICS - Checkout the upcoming Novablast 5 and pre-order this amazing shoe at www.asics.com. Peregrune - I've been using Peregrune supplements, including their Runner Multivitamin and Runner Joint, everyday since 2023 and for good reason. They are NSF and third-party tested. They are also for runner, created by runners. Save 15% on your purchase at www.peregrune.com by using code "RAMBLING" at checkout. Rambling Runner Resources Personalized Coaching - Are you looking to w

In this conversation, Matt Hohnholt shares his inspiring journey from a non-runner to the Masters Marathon World Championships. Matt discusses his early experiences in sports, the challenges he faced, and how he discovered a passion for running later in life. He reflects on his training, the importance of consistency, and the mental aspects of racing, including the joy of running versus the pressure of performance. He also shares insights from his experiences at major marathons, including the Age Group World Championships in Sydney, and emphasizes the value of community and personal growth in the running journey. Finally, Matt reflects on his experience setting a PR of 2:46 and the impact of the pandemic on his Boston aspirations, and his long-term goals in the sport. You can follow Matt at www.instagram.com/colo.runner. Sponsors ASICS - Checkout the upcoming Novablast 5 and pre-order this amazing shoe at www.asics.com. Peregrune - I've been using Peregrune supplements, including their Runner Multivitamin an

In this episode of the Rambling Runner Podcast, host Matt Chittim discusses the balance between skill development and enjoyment in running. He emphasizes the importance of marginal gains while also highlighting the need for runners to find joy and adventure in their training. By comparing running to other sports like basketball and golf, Matt illustrates that focusing solely on skill can lead to burnout and a loss of passion for the sport. He encourages listeners to embrace both structured training and spontaneous, enjoyable running experiences. Sponsors ASICS - Checkout the new and amazing Novablast 5 at www.asics.com. Peregrune - I've been using Peregrune supplements, including their Runner Multivitamin and Runner Joint, everyday since 2023 and for good reason. They are NSF and third-party tested. They are also for runner, created by runners. Save 15% on your purchase at www.peregrune.com by using code "RAMBLING" at checkout. Rambling Runner Resources Personalized Coaching - Are you looking to work with a

This is an episode with the most interesting man I follow on Strava. Adrian Massie shares his unique journey from an unhealthy lifestyle to becoming a multi-sport athlete and a local running legend. He discusses the pivotal moment that led him to embrace running, the importance of enjoying the process, and how his previous athletic experiences have shaped his success. Adrian also highlights the significance of community engagement, nutrition, and recovery in maintaining performance, as well as his recent ventures into indoor track racing. The discussion concludes with insights on setting personal records later in life and the excitement of future challenges. You can follow Adrian on Strava at www.strava.com/athletes/39756537. Sponsors ASICS - Checkout the new and amazing Novablast 5 at www.asics.com. Peregrune - I've been using Peregrune supplements, including their Runner Multivitamin and Runner Joint, everyday since 2023 and for good reason. They are NSF and third-party tested. They are also for runner, cr

In this engaging conversation, Corinne Shalvoy shares her journey as a multifaceted figure in the running community, discussing her experiences as a top runner, coach, commentator, and advocate for women in sports. She reflects on her recent participation as a racer and broadcaster at the Black Canyon 100k, the challenges of live commentary, and the evolution of media in trail running. Corinne also delves into the balance of her professional life, parenting, and her passion for running, emphasizing the importance of support systems and personal growth. As she looks ahead to exciting events in 2025, she remains committed to inspiring others and fostering a strong community within the sport. You can follow Corinne and all of her professional interests at www.instagram.com/corinne_shalvoyage. Photo credit to Cody Bare. Sponsors ASICS - Checkout the new and amazing Novablast 5 at www.asics.com. Peregrune - I've been using Peregrune supplements, including their Runner Multivitamin and Runner Joint, everyday since

In this conversation, Kallup McCoy II shares his journey of preparing for a transcontinental run while raising awareness and funds for his mental health and substance use recovery non-profit. He reflects on his past experiences, including the Trail of Tears run, and discusses the mental, emotional, and physical challenges of endurance running. Kallup emphasizes the importance of intrinsic motivation, the balance between training and recovery, and the impact of his journey on others. He also shares his plans for documenting the experience through a YouTube series and a full-length documentary. You can get links to all of Kallup's channels, social media, and non-profit here: https://linktr.ee/recoverylion Sponsors ASICS - Checkout the upcoming Novablast 5 and pre-order this amazing shoe at www.asics.com. Peregrune - I've been using Peregrune supplements, including their Runner Multivitamin and Runner Joint, everyday since 2023 and for good reason. They are NSF and third-party tested. They are also for runner,

This episode covers the significance of February 1st as a pivotal date for setting and achieving goals, particularly in the context of New Year's resolutions. We emphasize the importance of maintaining the goals set in January while refining the methods to achieve them. Finally, we discuss how to plan effectively and stay committed to your aspirations, ultimately fostering a mindset geared towards success. Sponsors ASICS - Checkout the upcoming Novablast 5 and pre-order this amazing shoe at www.asics.com. Peregrune - I've been using Peregrune supplements, including their Runner Multivitamin and Runner Joint, everyday since 2023 and for good reason. They are NSF and third-party tested. They are also for runner, created by runners. Save 15% on your purchase at www.peregrune.com by using code "RAMBLING" at checkout. Barilla's Protein+ Pasta - Put your energy to the test and take on Barilla's Protein+ Pasta’s Winter Energy Challenge this February, on the Strava fitness app. It's free and all you need to do is co