For The Long Run: Exploring the Why Behind Running

Jonathan Levitt
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  • RUNNING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Exploring the why behind what keeps runners running long, strong, and motivated. Running is a sport that has the power to unite us all and we are here to share conversations about how running has shaped the lives of people within our community, as well as how running has created community in itself. From pro runners and Olympians to ultramarathoners running their first big race to business owners who use running to improve their entrepreneurial journey, we believe in creating community and expanding the running world for all. Hosted by running enthusiast, Jonathan Levitt.

  1. Scott Jurek on The Future of Ultras and Solutions to New Challenges

    6 DAYS AGO

    Scott Jurek on The Future of Ultras and Solutions to New Challenges

    No matter where you’re at in your running journey, there’s a path for all of us. Scott Jurek has been named one of the greatest runners of all time, claiming victories in nearly all of ultrarunning’s elite trail and road events. More than just a champion, Scott is a true student and ambassador of the sport, known to stay at finish lines cheering until the last runner crosses. When not racing, he donates his time to many non profit organizations and is an avid volunteer in the areas of environmental conservation, fitness and health. Jon chats with Scott about: ​The Philosophy of Endurance and Suffering​Adapting and Overcoming Injuries​The Future of Ultra Running Competitions​The Pressure of Year-Round Racing​The Allure of Western States​The Importance of Community and Inspiration Stay connected: Follow Scott on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottjurek/ Scott’s website: https://www.scottjurek.com/ Scott’s book: https://www.amazon.com/North-Finding-While-Running-Appalachian/dp/0316433799 This episode is supported by: Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org. GOES: Need a trail companion that’s smarter than your average gear? Meet GOES—the essential outdoor app created by wilderness medicine doctors. Whether you're planning your next adventure or handling a backcountry emergency, GOES gives you expert medical guidance—even without cell service. Tap a body part, assess the risk, and get clear next steps. It’s like having a backcountry medic in your pocket—and it’s an absolute must-have in our kit. Use code 25FTLR30 for 30% off an annual GOES+ plan.  Alpenglow: Visit https://www.alpenglowsolarandservice.com/ to learn more about solar solutions and contact Colleen! Tifosi Optics: Fantastic sunglasses for every type of run. Anti-bounce fit, shatterproof, and scratch resistant. Get 20% off when you use this link! Emich Volkswagen : Visit https://www.emichvw.com/ before July 31, 2025 to lock in a great deal on a new EV!

    1 hr
  2. Optimize Your Mental Performance with Kristen Schindler

    11 JUL

    Optimize Your Mental Performance with Kristen Schindler

    Having doubts as a runner? Here’s how to reframe them. Kristen Schindler is a mental performance consultant and endurance coach who helps athletes untangle their relationship with sport, self, and setbacks. She is currently completing her Master’s in Applied Sport and Performance Psychology at the University of Western States and working toward CMPC certification. Kristen’s work is grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Performance Coaching, Narrative Theory, and Cognitive-Behavioral principles with a belief that who we are in sport mirrors who we are in life. Drawing on over two decades of experience as both an elite trail runner and coach, she supports athletes in building resilience, values-based confidence, and sustainable performance. She works with individuals, teams, and organizations, helping them lean into discomfort, reframe failure, and write more honest, flexible stories about who they are both as athletes and humans. Jon chats with Kristin about: Kristen's running journey mental performance and coaching confidence and self-talk defining your role in challenging times empowering youth athletes Stay connected: Follow Kristen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristenaschindler/ Follow Integrated Stride Coaching on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/integratedstridecoaching/ Integrated Stride Coaching website: https://www.integratedstridecoaching.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaeT-s6wSPVAXaeeaDLGMl7LyTYiQnbeWlQVY1MXqbiS8-x7uqpFlpx0I1U6Qw_aem_1Q1vK1LbwnFXin6AEoaPEQ This episode is supported by: PUMA: Get your pair at your local Fleet Feet or your favorite local running shop! GOES: Need a trail companion that’s smarter than your average gear? Meet GOES—the essential outdoor app created by wilderness medicine doctors. Whether you're planning your next adventure or handling a backcountry emergency, GOES gives you expert medical guidance—even without cell service. Tap a body part, assess the risk, and get clear next steps. It’s like having a backcountry medic in your pocket—and it’s an absolute must-have in our kit. Use code 25FTLR30 for 30% off an annual GOES+ plan.  Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org. Tifosi Optics: Fantastic sunglasses for every type of run. Anti-bounce fit, shatterproof, and scratch resistant. Get 20% off when you use this link!Visit Leadville: So you think you know Leadville? Lake County has so much more to offer year-round than just the 100 miler in the summer. If you’re thinking of getting away, highly recommend booking a trip to Leadville to get up into the mountains, eat yummy food, and play outside. Check out more of what Leadville has to offer here!

    42 min
  3. How to be a Change Maker with Race Director, Libby Jones

    4 JUL

    How to be a Change Maker with Race Director, Libby Jones

    Want change in the way your races are organized? Then speak up about it! Libby Jones is the owner and race director for The Active Joe, a race production company out of Dallas, Texas that focuses on the "average joes" out there getting active. She has directed running races for 17 years and currently produces trail and road running events 6 race days a year for The Active Joe. The company has a focus on affordable racing while providing opportunities to get active in a safe and inviting way for communities previously underrepresented in running. Jon chats with Libby about: ● overcoming health challenges (Fibromyalgia) ● going from runner to race director ● diversity and inclusion in running ● efforts to include underrepresented groups ● challenges and progress in race directing Follow Libby on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/libbyruns/ Follow Active Joe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theactivejoe/ Active Joe’s website: https://www.theactivejoe.com/ Active Joe on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheActiveJoe/ Dinosaur Valley Endurance Run on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dinosaurvalley100/ This episode is supported by: Tifosi Optics: Fantastic sunglasses for every type of run. Anti-bounce fit, shatterproof, and scratch resistant. Get 20% off when you use this link! Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org. PUMA: Get your pair at your local Fleet Feet or your favorite local running shop! Shokz: This episode is supported by Shokz. They stay in place and you'll be safe and sound because they don't go in your ears. ⁠Use code FTLR for $10 off your purchase.

    51 min
  4. Young, Fit, and Ready for the Pain Cave at Western States 100: Hans Troyer’s Journey

    27 JUN

    Young, Fit, and Ready for the Pain Cave at Western States 100: Hans Troyer’s Journey

    When your motto is “young and fit,” what does it look like to train for Western States? Hans Troyer is a 25 year old pro ultrarunner who set the course record at the Bandera 100k in 2024 and who finished second at the 2025 Canyons 100k, earning him a Golden Ticket to the Western States 100. Listen to hear about: Discovering the trail scene and becoming a pro runnerThe draw of the pain cave and sufferingPreparation for Western States 100Hans’ fueling and nutrition strategies on and off the courseThe brands Hans loves Stay connected: Hans on Instagram: instagram.com/hanstroyer Hans on YouTube: youtube.com/@HansIsYoungAndFit THE KID documentary: youtube.com/watch?v=ZZmeB4qub_U Find Hans Troyer on StravaFor The Long Run Podcast on Instagram: instagram.com/forthelrpodJon Levitt on Instagram: instagram.com/jwlevittJoin the For The Long Run email community: for-the-long-run.beehiiv.com This episode is supported by: Pillar: If you’re looking to step up your performance, check out PILLAR at TheFeed.com and use FTLR for 15% off your first purchase.GOES: Need a trail companion that’s smarter than your average gear? Meet GOES—the essential outdoor app created by wilderness medicine doctors. Whether you're planning your next adventure or handling a backcountry emergency, GOES gives you expert medical guidance—even without cell service. Tap a body part, assess the risk, and get clear next steps. It’s like having a backcountry medic in your pocket—and it’s an absolute must-have in our kit. Use code 25FTLR30 for 30% off an annual GOES+ plan. GOES+ gives you access to the rewards program, plus much more additional medical content and our emergency assessment tool!Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.Visit Leadville: So you think you know Leadville? Lake County has so much more to offer year-round than just the 100 miler in the summer. If you’re thinking of getting away, highly recommend booking a trip to Leadville to get up into the mountains, eat yummy food, and play outside. Check out more of what Leadville has to offer here!

    42 min
  5. Crewing and Pacing 101 for Western States and Other Ultras with Amelia Boone & Alex Hildebrandt

    23 JUN

    Crewing and Pacing 101 for Western States and Other Ultras with Amelia Boone & Alex Hildebrandt

    This is a double-header episode hearing from two experienced pacers and crew members: Amelia Boone and Alex Hildebrandt. Both have experience successfully crewing and pacing elite athletes. This episode was recorded in 2023, but is full of evergreen content! In this episode we talk about: -tips for assembling your perfect crew team, starting understanding your crew needs: logistics help, gear and nutrition, cheerleading, pacing, and more -advice for crew members and things to discuss with your athlete, including logistics and crewing by bike  -dealing with DNFs, curveballs and different challenges faced by athletes and crew  -ultra pacing 101: pre race considerations, running etiquette, and real time responses  -navigating aid stations and race plans Tune in to Episode 47 and Episode 97 to hear Amelia Boone’s previous appearances on the show. Follow Amelia on Instagram @arboone11 and  Alex @alex_hildebrandt and For The Long Run @forthelrpod  --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/forthelongrun/support  Past guests on For The Long Run include: 177. Molly Seidel; 226. Mike "Kofuzi"; 228. Kara Goucher; 59. Shalane Flanagan; 234. Camille Herron; 198. Courtney Frerichs; 229. Jes Woods; 207. Tyler Andrews; 197. Dean Karnazes; 206. Katie Arnold; 220. CJ Albertson; 153. Joe Holder; 199. Kelly Roberts; 188. Gwen Jorgensen; 205. Emily Abbate; 209. Sara Vaughn; 174. Nick Bare; 97 Amelia Boone; 101. Courtney Dauwalter, 219. Dylan Bowman; 191. Matt Chittim; 200. David Roche; and more!

    52 min
  6. Training, Fueling, and Preparing for Western States with Adam Peterman

    21 JUN

    Training, Fueling, and Preparing for Western States with Adam Peterman

    Get an inside look at what it’s like to run Western States! Adam Peterman is a professional trail runner living in Missoula, Montana who ran for the University of Colorado. Listen to hear about: Adam’s love-hate relationship with the Mags run in BoulderThe decision to pursue a career as a pro trail runnerAdam’s approach to racing and embracing the unknownA sacral stress fracture and how Nordic skiing may have contributed to itPreparing for a return to Western StatesAn inside look at fueling for races Stay connected: Adam on Instagram: instagram.com/adampeterman_ For The Long Run Podcast on Instagram: instagram.com/forthelrpodJon Levitt on Instagram: instagram.com/jwlevittJoin the For The Long Run email community: for-the-long-run.beehiiv.com This episode is supported by: Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.Tifosi Optics: Fantastic sunglasses for every type of run. Anti-bounce fit, shatterproof, and scratch resistant. Get 20% off when you use this link!GOES: Need a trail companion that’s smarter than your average gear? Meet GOES —the essential outdoor app created by wilderness medicine doctors. Whether you're planning your next adventure or handling a backcountry emergency, GOES gives you expert medical guidance—even without cell service. Tap a body part, assess the risk, and get clear next steps. It’s like having a backcountry medic in your pocket—and it’s an absolute must-have in our kit. Use code 25FTLR30 for 30% off an annual GOES+ plan. GOES+ gives you access to the rewards program, plus much more additional medical content and our emergency assessment tool!Shokz: This episode is supported by Shokz. They stay in place and you'll be safe and sound because they don't go in your ears. ⁠Use code FTLR for $10 off your purchase!

    58 min
  7. Running By Feel Over Data: Riley Brady’s Journey to Western States, Nike, and Beyond

    13 JUN

    Running By Feel Over Data: Riley Brady’s Journey to Western States, Nike, and Beyond

    We’re only a couple of weeks from the Western States Endurance Run, so we caught up with a pro for an inside look at strategizing for it! Riley Brady is a professional ultra trail runner for Nike Trail living and training in Boulder, CO. Jon chatted with them about: The process of earning a golden ticket to Western StatesHow Riley’s low salt loss rate influences fueling choices“Collective effervescence” in a 100 milerManaging nausea and staying focused in ultrasAiming for a sub 2:36 at CIMBalancing personal goals with sponsorship obligations Stay connected: Riley on Instagram: instagram.com/rye.outside Follow Riley Brady on StravaFor The Long Run Podcast on Instagram: instagram.com/forthelrpodJon Levitt on Instagram: instagram.com/jwlevittJoin the For The Long Run email community: for-the-long-run.beehiiv.com This episode is supported by: PUMA: Get 20% off any PUMA run or train products from shoes to apparel with code FTLRQ1 at www.puma.com.Pillar: If you’re looking to step up your performance, check out PILLAR at TheFeed.com and use FTLR for 15% off your first purchase.Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.Tifosi Optics: Fantastic sunglasses for every type of run. Anti-bounce fit, shatterproof, and scratch resistant. Get 20% off when you use this link!

    46 min
  8. Colleen Quigley is Building a New Kind of Olympic Development Team

    4 JUN

    Colleen Quigley is Building a New Kind of Olympic Development Team

    Athletes are more than their sport, so Colleen’s working to bring a holistic approach to team running. Colleen Quigley is an American middle-distance runner, Olympian, entrepreneur, mentor, National Champion, and lover of women's sports. From her high school days on the cross country and track teams, to her collegiate career and Florida State, and all throughout her professional career running for brands like lululemon, Nike, WHOOP, ROKA, and more, community has always been a top priority.  Colleen aims to bring that value of community to life with a new professional track team called Meridia and advised by coach Juli Benson. *please note that this episode was recorded in March and some details have changed since recording including the discussion about Juli Benson and Kate Grace* Juli is now an advisor to the team. Listen to hear about: ​Differences of running communities between Boulder, LA, and Flagstaff​Transitioning from soccer and dance to running and allowing it to snowball into a career​The nuances of male vs. female running coaches​Building a holistic team dynamic around ethos and values rather than around a brand​Non-endemic brand sponsorships and allowing athletes to maintain control over sponsorship​Storytelling for athletes and challenges around personal content and branding​Growing a new, holistic approach for a track team with female leadership Check out the Meridia Mile, a way for fans to “join the team!” https://www.movemint.cc/events/meridia-mile Stay connected: ​Colleen Quigley on Instagram: instagram.com/steeple_squigs◦Colleen Quigley’s website: colleenquigley.org ◦Meridia website: wearemeridia.com ​For The Long Run Podcast on Instagram: instagram.com/forthelrpod​Jon Levitt on Instagram: instagram.com/jwlevitt​Join the For The Long Run email community: for-the-long-run.beehiiv.comThis episode is supported by: ​Tifosi Optics: Fantastic sunglasses for every type of run. Anti-bounce fit, shatterproof, and scratch resistant. Get 20% off when you use this link!​Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.​PUMA: Get yours at your local Fleet Feet or your favorite local running shop!​GOES: Need a trail companion that’s smarter than your average gear? Meet GOES—the essential outdoor app created by wilderness medicine doctors. Whether you're planning your next adventure or handling a backcountry emergency, GOES gives you expert medical guidance—even without cell service. Tap a body part, assess the risk, and get clear next steps. It’s like having a backcountry medic in your pocket—and it’s an absolute must-have in our kit.

    1h 12m
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About

Exploring the why behind what keeps runners running long, strong, and motivated. Running is a sport that has the power to unite us all and we are here to share conversations about how running has shaped the lives of people within our community, as well as how running has created community in itself. From pro runners and Olympians to ultramarathoners running their first big race to business owners who use running to improve their entrepreneurial journey, we believe in creating community and expanding the running world for all. Hosted by running enthusiast, Jonathan Levitt.

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