In this podcast episode, Megan Blacksmith, co-founder of Zesty, shares her transformative journey from extreme running and health complications to discovering the power of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). Megan discusses the idea that 'success leaves clues' and how to overcome limiting beliefs and patterns in both life and running. She details her personal experiences with postpartum anxiety and depression, triggered by extreme marathon training, and how it led her to explore holistic...

The episode delves into three primary motivations for running: to challenge oneself, improve health, and for the sheer joy of it, emphasizing how these reasons can evolve over time.  Running serves as a medium to connect with something greater, be it through personal achievement, community, or a deeper sense of gratitude and purpose. Throughout, personal anecdotes and practical advice are shared to encourage listeners to reflect on their own running journeys and embrace the diverse benefits...

We explore the multifaceted nature of stiffness in runners. We discuss how stiffness can be both beneficial and detrimental, affecting efficiency, energy transfer, and overall performance. Our perspective emphasizes the importance of understanding the difference between 'good' and 'bad' stiffness, and we offer insights into managing stiffness effectively. Through strategies like resistance training, eccentric contractions, and plyometrics, we aim to empower runners with the knowledge to...

Why do 80% of runners get injured? If you are one of the unfortunate many, you know how frustrating and painful running injuries can be.  That's why we are diving into the 5 main causes of running injuries in this week's episode to help you avoid some of the common mistakes that sidelines so many runners. 01:28 Exploring the High Injury Rate Among Runners 02:02 Running Injuries vs. Soreness 07:03 Training Mistakes: The Law of the Toos 20:53 The Role of Weakness in Running Injuries 24:44 The...

In episode 353, we dive into the significance of leveraging training cycles to boost both running performance and overall health. We explain what training cycles are and why they're crucial, and we guide you on how to make the most of them for ongoing enhancement.  We discuss common pitfalls that runners encounter, such as inconsistency and a lack of variety in training during non-race periods, and offer practical strategies to overcome these hurdles.  We cover various types of training...

Exploring the Impact of Technology on Running Performance Today we discuss the double-edged sword of technology in running. We delve into how various devices, like GPS watches, heart rate monitors, and sleep trackers, can both aid and complicate runners' training routines. We emphasize the importance of listening to one's body over strictly adhering to data and discuss the potential stress and disconnection that overreliance on technology can cause. The episode also covers the concept of...

In episode 351 of the Real Life Runners podcast titled 'Forced Recovery,' we discuss the importance of recovery for runners and the concept of forced recovery, where neglecting recovery leads to compulsory rest due to injury or exhaustion. We share personal experiences, including Kevin's forced recovery after running the Daytona 100 with a hernia and subsequent surgery.  The episode highlights common mistakes runners make by ignoring recovery and offers insights on how to honor and listen to...

Dr. Lisa is a physical therapist and run coach that specializes in the prevention and treatment of running injuries, and has helped thousands of runners from across the globe. She's on a mission to inspire and educate runners of all experiences and ages so they can continue running pain free. She is a true believer that movement is medicine. This episode of the Real Life Runners podcast features an in-depth conversation with Dr. Lisa Mitro, a physical therapist and running coach...

In this episode of the Real Life Runners podcast, we discussed the importance of binary actions in achieving various life intentions. We emphasized the need for clarity in stating intentions and then identifying and implementing binary actions that align with those intentions to ensure results. This approach can be applied across different aspects of life, including workouts, personal goals, nutrition, strength training, and overall health. We stress the importance of setting realistic goals...

In episode 348 of the Real Life Runners Podcast, we discussed the four key ingredients for achieving consistency and progress in running. We explain why each of these factors is pivotal to long-term growth and success as a runner. We also highlight the importance of nuanced, individual-specific application of these principles rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, emphasizing that running training is as much an art as it is a science.  00:59 The Importance of Consistency and...

In this episode, we discussed the importance of adapting and adjusting a runner's training plan based on various factors such as missed workouts, upcoming goals, and the runner's experience. Emphasize the importance of understanding the purpose of each workout and suggest ways runners can maintain consistency in their training, even when life's unexpected events get in the way.  We talked about different scenarios in which workouts might need to be rescheduled or skipped altogether, and...

In episode 346 of The Real Life Runners Podcast, host Angie speaks to Lori Duesing, a member of the Real Life Runners Academy, about her inspiring journey from non-athletic kid to runner, featuring her struggle with weight, depression, and self-doubt. Lori shares her experiences of learning to slow down, listen to her body, and develop herself as a runner - all key components of the trainings she's undergone through the academy. Today, despite her initial apprehensions, Lori is a successful...

Many athletes focus too much on short-term results and daily or weekly progress, often leading to a plateau or a rollercoaster of progress and regression. This week, we discuss the importance of having a vision and long-term objectives for your running journey. We highlight the significance of 'value capture', where the value of a goal tends to overshadow the reason for pursuing it. We also emphasize the concept of 'process over outcome', focusing on the steps required to reach the goal...

In this episode of the real-life runners podcast, Dr. Tonya Olson shares her wealth of knowledge on foot care for runners, emphasizing the importance of considering individual needs, terrain, distance, and footwear. Dr. Tonya Olson is a board-certified doctor of physical therapy who has a long history of working with runners of all disciplines. This year will be her 15th year providing footcare at the Michigan Bluff aid station at mile 55 at the Western States 100 Endurance Run. She is the...

Understanding the Impact of Daily Movement on Your Running Performance In this episode, we dive into the topic of how our daily activities and movement outside of running impacts our performance as runners. We discuss the detrimental effects of having a sedentary lifestyle, how daily movement can affect our bodies, and ways to incorporate more daily movement for optimal health and improved running performance. We also tackle the issue of overactivity which can lead to tiredness, soreness,...

Have you ever felt like you're running someone else's race, chasing goals that don't quite fit? This week, we get real about the pursuit of joy in running, breaking free from the comparison trap, and tuning into your own personal happiness frequency. Just like finding that perfect radio station in a rental car, we discuss how crucial it is to listen to your own rhythm in running, rather than getting lost in the static of others' expectations. Sometimes, the path to joy in running takes us on...

Ever find yourself caught in the cycle of constant competition, feeling like races are the only benchmark for success in running? This episode turns the tables on that mindset, guiding runners through the art of setting impactful non-race goals. We carve out a roadmap for maintaining motivation and growth even when the race bibs are tucked away. As we peel back the layers of our running routines, we underscore the importance of acknowledging the natural progression and the sometimes necessary...

What is the difference between ability and capacity? Running is not just a physical challenge; it's a journey of the mind and spirit that demands as much mental strength as it does physical endurance. In our latest podcast episode, we explore this intricate dance between mind and body, delving into how we can break the chains of self-doubt and unleash our true potential. We make a critical distinction between ability and capacity. These two concepts, though often used interchangeably, are...

Ever felt the exhilarating rush of crossing a half marathon finish line, or dreamt of feeling it for the first time? This week, we're your personal pit crew on a mission to turbocharge your training for a faster 13.1 in 2024. With a blend of practical tips and seasoned strategies, I'll guide you through a five-day running challenge that's just the beginning of a transformative journey. We'll sidestep the common training missteps and replace them with five key ingredients to lock in your...

Ever find yourself caught in the trap of "I always" or "I never"? We're tearing down the walls of self-sabotage that keep us from reaching our true potential in fitness and beyond. Join the battle against those sneaky habits that prevent our progress and discover the importance of specific recognition and the redefinition of success. Together, we're rewiring thought patterns to align actions with goals, all while keeping judgment at bay. This episode isn't just about running; it's about...

Embark on a journey to elevate your running game with the Real Life Runners podcast, where we unravel the essential elements of a well-crafted running plan. This isn't just about setting a goal; it's about the intricate dance of organization, injury prevention, and consistent progress, whether you're eyeing the finish line or simply seeking improvement. As your faithful guides, we reveal the pitfalls of medium-effort runs and the triumphs of a plan that truly resonates with your life, your...

How do you prepare for a 100-mile ultramarathon, both physically and mentally? How does the role of a dedicated and supportive crew play into the success of such a harrowing race? Join us as we unravel all this and more in an emotional and inspiring account of Kevin's triumphant finish in the Daytona 100 mile ultra-race.  This episode is an intimate look into Kevin’s journey, from his personal battle with epilepsy to the community of ardent supporters who rallied behind him. We share candid...

Do you ever wonder how ultra runners fuel their bodies for a 100-mile race? Join us on an exploration into the world of ultra running with special focus on Kevin's upcoming Daytona race. We delve into the importance of carb loading and hydration, discussing strategies that can help you become a physically and mentally stronger runner. We’re not just fixating on the physical aspects of running, but also examining the mindset needed to undertake such extreme challenges. Drawing from personal...

Running after having kids can feel like an uphill battle, but it doesn’t have to be! Join us as we chat with Dr. Katlyn Lennemann, the founder of Run Resilient, who shares her personal journey of getting back into running post-childbirth. Katlyn’s experiences and insights shed light on how to make the transition simple and enjoyable, rather than a punishing exercise.  We take a deep-dive into the importance of maintaining fitness during pregnancy, and how it sets the stage for returning to...