Marathon Running Podcast by Marathon Journal
- Episodes
- 376
- Released
- several times a week
- Latest episode
- Nov 9, 2026
About the podcast
Are you a runner looking for a new source of inspiration and motivation? Our weekly podcast brings experts in the running community straight to you, covering everything from training and nutrition to race recaps and reviews, and even mental training. We're more than just a podcast - we're a community. Our Facebook group, SpeedStriders, is a place for runners to connect, share their stories, and support each other on their running journeys. Our goal is to motivate and inspire runners of all levels, and to build a strong and supportive community of like-minded individuals. Join us!
Episodes 376
339. She Races: Sophie Power on Pregnancy Deferrals, Equal Access, and Transforming Race Lines
In this episode, ultra-runner and She Races founder Sophie Power joins the podcast to reflect on her viral 2018 UTMB photo—where she was pictured breastfeeding her three-month-old baby mid-race—and how that …
Show notes
In this episode, ultra-runner and She Races founder Sophie Power joins the podcast to reflect on her viral 2018 UTMB photo—where she was pictured breastfeeding her three-month-old baby mid-race—and how that pivotal moment sparked a global movement for equity in endurance sports. Sophie details how she leveraged her professional business background and global platform to establish She Races, a charity working across 63 countries to eliminate barriers for female athletes through costless, actionable race guidelines such as pregnancy deferral policies, proper-fitting gear, and equal media coverage. Throughout the conversation, she candidly addresses pushback from legacy events like the London Marathon, highlights trailblazing inclusive policies from organizations like UTMB and the Samarkand Marathon, breaks down the physiological and structural realities of gender gaps in qualifying standards, and shares details on the upcoming She Races Trail Series in the UK.
"Your Story, Your Why" - Patricia Carbone - Episode 19
In this inspiring episode of Your Story, Your Why, host Letty Lundquist welcomes Orlando attorney and business owner Patricia Carbone. Patricia recounts her transition from a competitive swimmer and academic …
Show notes
In this inspiring episode of Your Story, Your Why, host Letty Lundquist welcomes Orlando attorney and business owner Patricia Carbone. Patricia recounts her transition from a competitive swimmer and academic outside Boston to taking up running as a midnight stress-reliever during law school. She details the wild story of completing her very first marathon as part of the four-day, 48.6-mile Dopey Challenge at Walt Disney World, and how she has maintained an unbroken 13-year "Perfect Dopey" streak as one of only ~300 runners left in the exclusive group.
Patricia reflects on how distance running provided vital consistency through major career changes, helping her build the confidence and interpersonal skills needed to start her own legal practice. She breaks down the strategic parallels between court case prep and marathon training cycles, shares how her local running community organized a creative neighborhood Dopey Challenge during 2021, and discusses her current goals—including running the London Marathon, chasing a Boston qualifier, and visiting all 50 states.
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338. World Major Marathons Destiny2Sport Tour Operator Review
Running an international marathon should be an unforgettable adventure, but the logistical hurdles—from navigating public transit and securing hotel blocks to managing pre-race nerves—can easily overshadow the …
Show notes
Running an international marathon should be an unforgettable adventure, but the logistical hurdles—from navigating public transit and securing hotel blocks to managing pre-race nerves—can easily overshadow the magic of 26.2. In this episode of the Marathon Journal podcast, we dive into our experience testing the Five-Star Superior Package with Destiny2Sport at the Marriott Sydney Harbour Hotel during the TCS Sydney Marathon. We break down exactly how a dedicated, runner-led tour operator handles the heavy lifting, taking you behind the scenes of what it's really like to travel with a major race tour group.
From private charter buses that eliminate hours of expo commute stress and seamless bag check logistics to a stunning sunset welcome cruise on Sydney Harbour and on-course cheer stations right outside our hotel lobby, we explore whether booking through an official tour operator is truly worth the investment. Tune in for an honest, detailed look at Destiny2Sport's operations, high-end athlete swag, and why having veteran sub-3-hour marathoners handle your travel logistics makes all the difference when racing on the global stage.
337. Escaping the Comparison Trap for Runners with Coach Lisa Landrum
Whether it’s Strava segment chasing, public training logs, or past PRslingering in your head, the social comparison game is a battle no runner evertruly wins. In our latest feature, host Letty Lundquist sits …
Show notes
Whether it’s Strava segment chasing, public training logs, or past PRslingering in your head, the social comparison game is a battle no runner evertruly wins. In our latest feature, host Letty Lundquist sits down withCharlotte-based running coach Lisa Landrum (Around the Crown 10K) tobreak down the psychological mechanics of social comparison in running.
They dive into why middle and high school female athletes are dropping outof sports at twice the rate of boys—and how coaching through internal metricsover external validation holds the key to reversing that trend. Plus, CoachLisa shares her three-step mental reset to help runners of every age conquerimposter syndrome, update their underlying "Why," and reclaim genuinejoy on the road.
2026 NYC Marathon Special - Everything You Need to Know
Everything You Need to Know About the 2026 NYC MarathonGet caught up on all the essential details for the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon! From major elite field updates and high-profile withdrawals to course …
Show notes
Everything You Need to Know About the 2026 NYC Marathon
Get caught up on all the essential details for the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon! From major elite field updates and high-profile withdrawals to course breakdowns and top contenders to watch, we’ve got you covered for race week.
🔗 Connect with Us
Our website: https://www.marathonjournal.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast
Follow us on Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/30798607
"Your Story, Your Why" - Jennifer Herring - Episode 18
In this inspiring episode of Your Story, Your Why, host Letty Lundquist sits down with computer scientist and 46-time marathoner Jennifer Herring. Jennifer shares her journey living with optic atrophy—a visual …
Show notes
In this inspiring episode of Your Story, Your Why, host Letty Lundquist sits down with computer scientist and 46-time marathoner Jennifer Herring. Jennifer shares her journey living with optic atrophy—a visual impairment that leaves her vision between 20/200 and 20/400—and explains how she navigates road races and crowds through a perpetual blur. She reflects on her early running days in Central Park with the New York Road Runners, qualifying for Boston on her debut attempt, and setting fast personal bests of 3:22 in New York and 3:26 in Boston.
Jennifer opens up about the deep emotional purpose that drives her training, including the unforgettable moment she placed her 2008 Boston Marathon finisher medal in her father's hands hours before he passed away. She details her ongoing fundraising efforts with charity teams like Fred's Team and Team With A Vision, her creative tradition of running with donor-signed hats, and her upcoming milestone goals of completing her 47th marathon in New York and her 25th Boston Marathon finish.
336. Chicago Marathon Recap (Dakotah Popehn, Sustainability, and More)
In this episode of The Marathon Running Podcast, I sit down with U.S. Olympian and elite distance runner Dakotah Popehn fresh off her second-place American finish at the Chicago Marathon.We dive deep into the …
Show notes
In this episode of The Marathon Running Podcast, I sit down with U.S. Olympian and elite distance runner Dakotah Popehn fresh off her second-place American finish at the Chicago Marathon.
We dive deep into the real-time dynamics of race day, from managing 60-degree heat and hamstring nerve impingement at mile 21 to working dynamically with her Puma teammate and pacer, Rory Linkletter. Dakotah breaks down the exact mental grounding techniques she uses when a race gets dark, sharing how staying in the present moment gets her through the hardest miles.
I also share my own Chicago Marathon recap from the course, breaking down what it was like to navigate unseasonably warm weather, the massive spectator energy, and the mechanics of handling hydration at speed. Plus, we explore Chicago’s major sustainability push on course—examining the shift toward cupless refill stations with Culligan and HydraPak, the reality of cup-handling dynamics at high volumes, and how major marathons are tackling waste reduction.
Beyond the roads, Dakotah gives us an inside look at her upcoming memoir, You Think This Hurts. We talk candidly about her journey through early-life adversity, family divorce, and how running became a way to choose her own pain to process life’s uncontrollable challenges. Plus, she shares her perspective on the road to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games and what lies ahead for her training.
335. Dr. Megan Cannon on Mental Toughness for Runners
Ever heard a coach tell you to "just be mentally tough" and wondered what on earth that actually means in the middle of a grueling marathon? In this episode of the podcast, we’re breaking down the lazy branding …
Show notes
Ever heard a coach tell you to "just be mentally tough" and wondered what on earth that actually means in the middle of a grueling marathon? In this episode of the podcast, we’re breaking down the lazy branding of sports psychologist buzzwords with Dr. Megan Cannon, PhD. Fresh from her keynote session at Dirt Camp in the Berkshires, Dr. Cannon joins us to reframe sports psychology as true strength and conditioning for your brain, giving endurance runners an actual, mechanical toolkit to handle race-day anxiety and mid-race panic.
We dive deep into her formula for mental toughness—the intersection of emotion and attention regulation—and unpack the "MVP" mindset (Mentally Versatile Performance). Plus, Dr. Cannon shares practical, battle-tested strategies from her own wild adventures, ranging from tackling Half Dome at 5-foot-2 to surviving a brutal seven-day summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, proving why having your head where your feet are is the ultimate game-changer for your next starting line.
"Your Story, Your Why" - Massimo Alpian - Episode 17
In this episode of Your Story, Your Why, host Letty Lundquist sits down with Massimo Ian, Head of Marketing & Communications at Tracksmith. Massimo shares how his multicultural upbringing in New York City …
Show notes
In this episode of Your Story, Your Why, host Letty Lundquist sits down with Massimo Ian, Head of Marketing & Communications at Tracksmith. Massimo shares how his multicultural upbringing in New York City shaped his deep appreciation for community, food, and human connection. He opens up about his early years in running—from using the sport as a coping mechanism while navigating his identity as a closeted youth to healing his relationship with running and body image.
Massimo details his career transition from international non-profit work with UNICEF and youth rehabilitation programs in Brazil into the running industry. He discusses the importance of representation, creating welcoming spaces for underrepresented communities in running, and his favorite weekly mindfulness habit: running "unplugged" without a watch, phone, or headphones to stay connected with nature and body feel.
334. Underfueling and Low Energy Avaiability in Runners
In this episode, veteran sports nutrition coach Erin Sperald dives deep into the clinical reality of Low Energy Availability (LEA) and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs), exposing how chronic …
Show notes
In this episode, veteran sports nutrition coach Erin Sperald dives deep into the clinical reality of Low Energy Availability (LEA) and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs), exposing how chronic underfueling sabotages athletic performance, immune function, and bone health. Sperald shares actionable strategies for calculating baseline nutritional needs, using carbohydrates as a flexible fuel dial to match training output, and shifting focus away from aesthetics toward long-term health and longevity. Whether you are balancing heavy marathon mileage or struggling with recovery plateau, this conversation provides essential insights to optimize daily fueling and protect your metabolic foundation.
333. "Marathon 101" Book Review with Dave Masterson
What separates a late-race marathon breakdown from a course PR? In this episode, host Letty Lundquist sits down with RRCA Certified Coach, Abbott 6-Star Finisher, and veteran pacer Dave Masterson to discuss his …
Show notes
What separates a late-race marathon breakdown from a course PR? In this episode, host Letty Lundquist sits down with RRCA Certified Coach, Abbott 6-Star Finisher, and veteran pacer Dave Masterson to discuss his new book, "Marathon 101" by Dave Masterson: A Professional Pacer's Book Running Your Personal Best. Having paced and finished over 70 marathons, Dave shares his front-row strategies on mastering energy conservation, training your gut for race-day fueling, skipping aid-station chaos, and executing a smart pacing plan.
"Your Story, Your Why" - Inga Dengel - Epsiode 16
In this episode, Letty sits down with global runner Inga Dengel to explore her multi-cultural background, her return to distance running, and the unique realities of training in Athens, Greece. From managing …
Show notes
In this episode, Letty sits down with global runner Inga Dengel to explore her multi-cultural background, her return to distance running, and the unique realities of training in Athens, Greece. From managing multi-generational household dynamics to surviving early-morning heat and stray dog encounters, Inga shares a candid look at building consistency, overcoming recurring injuries through strength training, and finding creative mental space on the run.
332. Best US-based 10K? Here is our Around the Crown 10K Review
Why leave state for a 10K? In this episode, Letti and Ryan dive into their weekend trip to Charlotte, North Carolina, for the Around the Crown 10K Together with Truist! What was supposed to be a fun family …
Show notes
Why leave state for a 10K? In this episode, Letti and Ryan dive into their weekend trip to Charlotte, North Carolina, for the Around the Crown 10K Together with Truist! What was supposed to be a fun family getaway turned into an epic mini-marathon experience complete with closed highways, 10,000 runners, and unbeatable community energy.
From line dancing at the shakeout run to flying through the inner lanes of Interstate 277 and exploring the US National Whitewater Center, we break down why Charlotte is a top-tier destination race for runners of all levels.
335. Chicago Marathon 2026 Elite Recap, Redemption, and Refill Cups!
Fresh off the plane from Chicago, Letty and Ryan dive into an action-packed episode breaking down everything from the 2026 Abbott World Marathon Majors Chicago Marathon!The Redemption Race: Letty reflects on …
Show notes
Fresh off the plane from Chicago, Letty and Ryan dive into an action-packed episode breaking down everything from the 2026 Abbott World Marathon Majors Chicago Marathon!
The Redemption Race: Letty reflects on her triumphant return to Chicago to conquer her DNF from last year—proving that emotional hurdles are often harder to clear than physical ones.
Shokz Partnership: A huge shout-out to Shokz for the race bib and their new dual-system bone-conduction headphones that deliver crisp sound without losing situational awareness.
Elite Field Breakdowns:
Men's Elite: Amos Kipruto (featured in Letty's upcoming documentary Why They Run) takes the crown in a blistering 2:01:09—the second-fastest time in Chicago history! Plus, a nod to Charles Hicks finishing as the top American and stopping to cheer on his wife.
Women's Elite: Defending champion Ruth Chepngetich / Howie Fayesa holds strong, alongside fantastic performances by American debutantes like Emma Grace Hurley (2:20:47).
Wheelchair Divisions: Marcel Hug dominates to secure his 7th Chicago title, and Catherine DeBrunner shatters the all-out marathon world record!
Guest Interview: Hear from elite runner Dakotah Popehn as she shares her inspiring race insights and recap.
Sustainability & Course Innovation: Exploring the pilot program with Hydropack and Culligan water refill stations on the course—the stats, the logistics of handheld bottles vs. traditional paper cups, and a look toward a greener racing future.
What's Next: A sneak peek at next week's episode featuring running coach Lisa Landrum tackling imposter syndrome and the comparison trap, plus upcoming event coverage in Amsterdam and Porto!
Episode Highlights & Key Topics
"Your Story, Your Why"- Aniruddh Munde - Episode 15
In this episode of Your Story, Your Why, Letty sits down with Aniruddh Munde to discuss his personal and athletic journey. Aniruddh reflects on growing up under high academic expectations in India, starting his …
Show notes
In this episode of Your Story, Your Why, Letty sits down with Aniruddh Munde to discuss his personal and athletic journey. Aniruddh reflects on growing up under high academic expectations in India, starting his running journey in Los Angeles, finding freedom through running while coming out, and executing a coached training cycle to achieve a 3:58 marathon PR in Sydney. He also discusses managing perfectionism, using running to build mental resilience, and giving himself grace through injury recovery.
331. Masterclass Part 4 - Race Week
In Part 4 of the Masterclass, the focus shifts from physical training to race-week execution, logistical discipline, and mental strategy. The session outlines a proper 36-to-48-hour carbohydrate loading …
Show notes
In Part 4 of the Masterclass, the focus shifts from physical training to race-week execution, logistical discipline, and mental strategy. The session outlines a proper 36-to-48-hour carbohydrate loading protocol targeting low-fiber, simple carbs to maximize glycogen stores without digestive bulk. It builds a reverse-engineered race morning countdown from pre-race meals to corral logistics, details early-race pacing mechanics to prevent the trap of "banking time," and equips runners with cognitive tools—like chunking, process cues, and reframing—to push through central nervous system fatigue when hitting the wall in the final miles.
"Your Story, Your Why"- Stephanie Platt - Episode 14
In this episode of Your Story, Your Why, Letty sits down with Stephanie Platt to discuss the evolution of her running journey. Stephanie reflects on getting her start in middle school cross country, maintaining …
Show notes
In this episode of Your Story, Your Why, Letty sits down with Stephanie Platt to discuss the evolution of her running journey. Stephanie reflects on getting her start in middle school cross country, maintaining her running routine during her husband’s military deployments, and the wild five-week stretch in fall 2021 where she completed St. George, Boston, and NYC. She also opens up about why running serves as non-negotiable mental self-care for mothers and how she is navigating physical setbacks like plantar fasciitis.
330. 2026 Sydney Marathon Recap
In episode 330 of the Marathon Running Podcast, host Letty breaks down her experience running the 2026 Sydney Marathon—which she rates an 11 out of 10—alongside her husband and co-host, Ryan. Traveling with …
Show notes
In episode 330 of the Marathon Running Podcast, host Letty breaks down her experience running the 2026 Sydney Marathon—which she rates an 11 out of 10—alongside her husband and co-host, Ryan. Traveling with tour group sponsor Destiny 2 Sport, Letti arrived nine days early to adjust to the time difference and explore local sites like the Blue Mountains with friends. Leading up to race day, she attended media events, press conferences, the expo at Olympic Park, and the official opening ceremony at the Sydney Opera House. Despite experiencing stomach cramps and vomiting from accidentally taking a caffeinated gel during the race, Letty persevered alongside a friend, taking in iconic sights like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the lively spectator zones before enjoying a scenic finish at the Opera House and post-race celebrations at Sydney's historic Fortune of War pub.
"Your Story, Your Why" - Paul Latham - Episode 13
What happens when you decide that life—and running—actually begins after age 50? In this episode of Your Story, Your Why, we sit down with Paul Latham, a Jamaican immigrant based in Fort Worth, Texas. Growing …
Show notes
What happens when you decide that life—and running—actually begins after age 50? In this episode of Your Story, Your Why, we sit down with Paul Latham, a Jamaican immigrant based in Fort Worth, Texas. Growing up in Jamaica active in casual sports, running was never Paul's primary focus. It wasn't until well into his 50s, after a personal trainer pointed out his need for stamina, that Paul laced up his shoes for a three-mile walk on a local track.
After running over 200 5Ks and becoming comfortable at the half marathon distance, a coworker challenged Paul to break through his self-imposed limits by entering the Chicago Marathon lottery. Winning a spot launched a transformative distance-running career. Now preparing for his 13th marathon at the Cape Town Marathon, Paul reflects on the value of stepping outside comfort zones, the power of volunteering at major World Marathon Majors, and his goal to stay moving well into his 80s and 90s.
Key Takeaways
Life Begins Whenever You Decide: Age is not a barrier to starting distance running; Paul ran his first marathon after turning 50.
Break Self-Imposed Ceilings: Often, the only thing holding us back from longer distances or bigger goals is a mental limitation.
Volunteer for Perspective: Serving as a course marshal or aid station volunteer builds deep gratitude for race directors and fellow athletes.
Value Experiences Over Things: The connections, travel, and personal growth gained through distance running far outweigh material items.
Connect with Paul Latham: Facebook
Training Program Mentioned: Cowtown Trailblazers
Races Mentioned: Chicago Marathon, Cape Town Marathon, Boston Marathon, Cowtown Marathon
What goal have you been holding back on because it felt outside your comfort zone? Drop a comment on our latest post or leave us a review on Apple Podcasts to let us know!
Resources and LinksShare Your Thoughts
Connect with Us:
Our website: https://www.marathonjournal.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marathonjournal
Follow us on Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/30798607
329. Masterclass Part 3 – Fueling, Gear Mechanics & Taper Science
In this episode, we dive deep into the critical logistical pillars of marathon success that go beyond simple aerobic fitness. If you want to avoid hitting the wall at mile 20, you need to master your fuel …
Show notes
In this episode, we dive deep into the critical logistical pillars of marathon success that go beyond simple aerobic fitness. If you want to avoid hitting the wall at mile 20, you need to master your fuel, gear, and recovery.
The Carbohydrate Bottleneck: Why the marathon is as much a fuel management test as it is an aerobic one, and how burning through glycogen leads to the dreaded late-race bonk.
Proactive Fueling Targets: Moving past outdated advice to embrace modern research supporting 90 to 120 grams of carbohydrates per hour for trained athletes.
Dual-Source Carbohydrates: Why combining glucose (maltodextrin) and fructose in a ~1:1 ratio uses complementary intestinal transporters (SGLT1 and GLUT5) to prevent absorption bottlenecks.
Sweat Testing & Sodium Mechanics: How to run a simple 60-minute field test to calculate your individual hourly sweat loss, plus the truth about sodium, cramps, and hyponatremia.
Gut Training: Why your digestive system struggles under race-intensity blood flow redistribution, and how to progressively train your gut during long runs.
The Three-Shoe Rotation: Breaking down the functional roles of your durable daily high-volume trainers, responsive workout shoes, and race-day carbon super shoes.
Taper Science & The Taper Tantrum: Understanding why a taper is about eliminating cumulative fatigue rather than building new fitness, why feeling terrible is normal, and why you must stick to the 21-day rule.
Connect with Us:
Our website: https://www.marathonjournal.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marathonjournal
Follow us on Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/30798607
"Your Story, Your Why" - Patti Shawber - Episode 12
unning has a way of meeting us exactly where we are—even when we feel completely broken. On this week's episode of Your Story, Your Why, host Letty Lundquist sits down with close friend and World Marathon …
Show notes
unning has a way of meeting us exactly where we are—even when we feel completely broken. On this week's episode of Your Story, Your Why, host Letty Lundquist sits down with close friend and World Marathon Majors finisher Patti Shawber.
After losing a decade of her life to severe drug addiction through her 30s and early 40s, Patti woke up one day exhausted and ready for change. After achieving sobriety, she stepped onto a Planet Fitness treadmill in her mid-40s, walking at 4.0 mph for 45 minutes to complete her very first 5K distance. What started as a way to reclaim her health evolved into a global running journey that took her across the world to earn her Six Star World Marathon Majors Medal before turning 60.
Patti opens up about channeling the intense energy of addiction into endurance sports, navigating fear and imposter syndrome, balancing competitive goals with aging, and why she holds onto the memory of her lowest moments so she never has to go back.
328. How to Run 101 Masterclass (Part 2) – Structuring Workouts, Speed, Long Runs & Strength
Welcome back to Part 2 of our Marathon 101 Masterclass series! Following the response to our initial guide, we dive deep into how to structure your training weeks, execute quality workouts, and build a body …
Show notes
Welcome back to Part 2 of our Marathon 101 Masterclass series! Following the response to our initial guide, we dive deep into how to structure your training weeks, execute quality workouts, and build a body that holds up under marathon fatigue.
In this episode, we cover:
Myth Busting & The 80/20 Rule: Why running faster all the time won't make you faster on race day, and how volume builds endurance.
Polarized Training: Differentiating hard days from easy days to maximize recovery and efficiency.
The 4 Phases of Marathon Training: A step-by-step breakdown from early strides and fartleks to threshold work, peak race-pace sessions, and the taper.
Microcycle Flexibility: Adjusting weekly workouts based on recovery needs, age, and individual adaptation.
Strength Training for Runners: Essential movements to improve running economy, protect tendons, and maintain posture late in the race.
Practical Micro-Habits: Adding light strides and dynamic warm-ups to improve range of motion.
Life & Travel Updates:
Race week coverage from the TCS Sydney Marathon.
Updates on our upcoming running documentary Why They Run, screening this November at IRX in Amsterdam.
Resources & Links Mentioned:
Learn more about the documentary project: Why They Run
Connect with Us:
Our website: https://www.marathonjournal.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marathonjournal
Follow us on Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/30798607
"Your Story, Your Why" - Julie Weiss - Episode 11
What happens when a single moment of decision on a family vacation transforms into a million-dollar global movement? In this episode of Your Story, Your Why, we sit down with Julie Weiss—author, runner, and …
Show notes
What happens when a single moment of decision on a family vacation transforms into a million-dollar global movement? In this episode of Your Story, Your Why, we sit down with Julie Weiss—author, runner, and widely known as the "Marathon Goddess". Struggling with midlife depression at age 37, Julie went for a barefoot run along the beaches of Kauai, pledging to turn her life around through movement.
After joining the LA Roadrunners and overcoming early race-day mistakes, tragedy struck when her father passed away from pancreatic cancer just 35 days after his diagnosis. Channeling her grief into purpose, Julie set out on an audacious mission: running 52 marathons in 52 weeks while working a full-time job. Now at 121 marathons and having officially surpassed her $1 million fundraising goal, Julie shares her "7 C's to Defy Your Limits" and explains why true fulfillment comes from recognizing your inherent worth right now.
Which of Julie’s "7 C's" resonated most with you today? Are you working toward a goal that feels bigger than yourself? Drop a comment on our latest post or leave us a review on Apple Podcasts to let us know!
Listen NowEpisode TimestampsKey TakeawaysResources and LinksShare Your Thoughts
Connect with Us:
Our website: https://www.marathonjournal.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marathonjournal
Follow us on Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/30798607
327. Sleep Science for Runners: Why Recovery Starts Long Before You Hit the Pillow
We spend hundreds of dollars on carbon-plated racing shoes, track every gram of protein, and hit our weekly mileage without fail. But when it comes to the single most critical factor in physical recovery, most …
Show notes
We spend hundreds of dollars on carbon-plated racing shoes, track every gram of protein, and hit our weekly mileage without fail. But when it comes to the single most critical factor in physical recovery, most runners leave their performance to chance: sleep.
In this episode, we sit down with Laura Brewick, Chief Marketing Officer and General Manager at MOLECULE—a sleep technology company backed by a dedicated team of PhD-level scientists focused entirely on foam formulations and athletic recovery. We dive deep into why simply getting "eight hours" isn't enough for distance runners, how thermal regulation and microclimates impact your deep sleep cycles, and the exact presleep habits you can start tonight to wake up ready to perform.
Connect with Us:
Our website: https://www.marathonjournal.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marathonjournal
Follow us on Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/30798607
"Your Story, Your Why" - Tatiana Rojas - Episode 10
Tatiana Rojas was a former gym teacher and long-time social worker in New York when she decided to tackle her first marathon at nearly 50 years old. What started as a decades-long dream watched on television …
Show notes
Tatiana Rojas was a former gym teacher and long-time social worker in New York when she decided to tackle her first marathon at nearly 50 years old. What started as a decades-long dream watched on television blossomed into a mission-driven journey across the World Marathon Majors.
Growing up watching the New York City Marathon, Tatiana always vowed that one day she would cross that finish line herself. After immigrating to the United States and waiting 20 years—unaware that entry required a lottery draw—a casual conversation with a coworker finally set her journey in motion. She applied, won a spot, and finished her debut marathon in 7 hours, 37 minutes, and 11 seconds.
That first race was a complete trial by fire. Naive about training, course logistics, and post-race recovery, she spent a full week recovering in bed and declared she would never run another.
The pull of the distance proved too strong to walk away from. Tatiana returned to the marathon with structured coaching and a deeper purpose, dedicating her miles to raising funds for Alzheimer’s and dementia research. From there, she committed to the NYRR 9+1 program, kept her momentum through virtual events during the pandemic, and systematically began checking off world majors.
Throughout her journey, raising funds for causes bigger than herself became a central pillar. She has raised over $10,000 across various campaigns supporting children and families with disabilities, Catholic Charities, heart disease research, and animal welfare organizations.
Just four years after stepping up her structured training, Tatiana completed the Boston Marathon—running alongside her friend Maria Fernanda—to officially earn her Six Star Finisher Medal. Her major marathon achievements include:
New York City Marathon: Her foundational race, run multiple times including her debut and post-pandemic returns.
Chicago Marathon: Site of her official marathon personal record of 5:48.
Berlin & London Marathons: Completed as part of her international major series push.
Tokyo Marathon: Completed while raising funds for animal rescue organizations.
Boston Marathon: The final piece to lock in her Six Star Finisher Medal.
Paris Marathon: Completed during the Olympic year, running the mass participation night marathon.
Now turning 66, Tatiana views every mile as an investment in her health, longevity, and vitality. Rejecting the idea that age should dictate limits, she credits running with keeping her prescription-free and deeply connected to a global running community. Her race-day mental strategy relies on positive self-talk—literally speaking to her legs between miles 18 and 23 to overcome fatigue and finish strong.
With upcoming plans to run the Sydney Marathon and target the new World Marathon Majors expansion stars, Tatiana continues to prove that passion and persistence have no expiration date.
Our website: https://www.marathonjournal.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marathonjournal
Follow us on Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/30798607
326. Marathon 101 Masterclass (Part 1 of 4) — The Aerobic Engine & Training Blueprint
In this episode, we launch our four-part Marathon Masterclass designed to strip away overcomplicated training noise and get back to core physiological fundamentals. Whether you are tackling your first 26.2 …
Show notes
In this episode, we launch our four-part Marathon Masterclass designed to strip away overcomplicated training noise and get back to core physiological fundamentals. Whether you are tackling your first 26.2, targeting a Boston Qualification, or resetting ahead of a new training block, we lay out the exact blueprint for setting up a successful 16-to-20-week macrocycle. We break down the medical and orthopedic reality of tissue adaptation, explain why muscle strength outpaces tendon durability, and outline the pre-block readiness audit every runner should pass before starting Week 1.
We also dive deep into the science of the aerobic engine and why 80% of your training volume must feel effortless. Discover how Zone 2 running drives capillary expansion, mitochondrial biogenesis, and fat oxidation—and why falling into the "Gray Zone" (Zone 3) traps runners in cumulative fatigue. Plus, we share half-marathon prediction formulas to calculate a realistic race goal, explore the 3:1 build-to-recovery microcycle pattern, and discuss when it makes sense to work with a running coach.
Show Notes & Links Mentioned:
Full Article & Breakdown: Read the accompanying guide on MarathonJournal.com
Pacing Tools: Check your training zones using the VDOT Running Calculator
Get in Touch: Questions or topic requests for Part 2? Email us at [email protected]
Connect with Us:
Our website: https://www.marathonjournal.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcast
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marathonjournal
Follow us on Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/30798607
"Your Story Your Why" - Claire Boyce - Episode 9
What happens when a punishment turns into your life’s biggest sanctuary? In this episode of Your Story, Your Why, Letty sits down with Claire Boyce—a stepmom, runner, and Greenville native—to explore how …
Show notes
What happens when a punishment turns into your life’s biggest sanctuary? In this episode of Your Story, Your Why, Letty sits down with Claire Boyce—a stepmom, runner, and Greenville native—to explore how running became her anchor through deep childhood trauma, adoption, and family life.
Claire opens up about finding her biological family, creating a harmonious blended household with her stepchildren and their birth mother, and the exact moment at a local Turkey Trot that transformed her mindset from a 3:30 half marathoner into a 1:47 athlete chasing a Boston Qualifier.
In this episode, we cover:
Turning an elementary school discipline lesson into a lifelong passion
Using running to navigate identity and adoption trauma
Grace, communication, and community in blended families
Shaving over 90 minutes off a half marathon PR
Why you should never give up when things get hard
Connect with Claire & Upward Running: upwardrunning.com
Have a story to share? Visit marathonjournal.com or reach out to Letty directly!
325. 18 Bucket-List Marathons "Race-Cations" Every Runner Needs on Their Radar
Ever dreamed of crossing a finish line on the Opera House concourse, pacing into an ocean sunset in Ibiza, or running among wildlife on an African safari? In this episode, we’re breaking down 18 ultimate …
Show notes
Ever dreamed of crossing a finish line on the Opera House concourse, pacing into an ocean sunset in Ibiza, or running among wildlife on an African safari? In this episode, we’re breaking down 18 ultimate bucket-list destination marathons across the globe! We cover everything from course highlights and iconic landmarks to low-impact pre-race taper activities to protect your legs, plus post-race adventures and spectator vibes for your support crew.
🔗 Read the full detailed travel guide and course breakdowns on Marathon Journal: marathonjournal.com/18-bucket-list-marathons
🇦🇺 2026 TCS Sydney Marathon Full Guide: Expo Changes, Course Strategy, Pacing & Best Foodie Spots!
https://marathonjournal.com/2026-tcs-sydney-marathon-guide/ Heading down under for the 2026 TCS Sydney Marathon? Whether you’re chasing an Abbott World Marathon Majors qualification, running your first 42.2K in …
Show notes
https://marathonjournal.com/2026-tcs-sydney-marathon-guide/
Heading down under for the 2026 TCS Sydney Marathon? Whether you’re chasing an Abbott World Marathon Majors qualification, running your first 42.2K in Australia, or cheering on a runner, executing a seamless racecation requires getting the details right long before you line up!
In this episode, we break down our ultimate event blueprint alongside insights from 9 expert contributors—including Race Director Wayne Lardin, Head Coach Ben Lucas, Lead Convoy Controller Michael Young, Olympian Luis Orta, and localSydney tourism experts.
We cover major 2026 schedule changes, mandatory gear bagdrop rules at the new Olympic Park Expo, early course quad-savers, biosecurity travel hacks, and Jude O'Shea’s comprehensive Sydney carbo-loading &celebration dining guide!
👉 Read the Ultimate 2026 TCS SydneyMarathon Guide: [https://marathonjournal.mag/sydney-marathon-guide-2026] (Insert your website link)
00:00- Intro: Sydney Marathon 2026 Overview
2:09– What is Different
2:59– Race Director Wayne Larden Welcomes the Runners
12:19– Sydney Travel Playbook (Visas, What to Declare, etc)
17:04– Reminders (Converter Plugs, E-Sims, Bank Stuff, Packing Lists)
19:51– How to Deal With Jet Lag
21:54– Where to Stay
22:56– Expo
24:31– Tips from FB Admin Ben Rocke of “TCS Sydney Marathon Support Group 2026”
33:55– Tips from TCS Sydney Marathon Head Coach Benjamin Lucas
41:42– Course Preview and Walk Through with TCS Sydney Marathon Head Coach BenjaminLucas
48:18– Chat with Official Pacer Damon Lynch
59:06– Behind the Scenes with Michael Young, TCS Sydney Marathon Lead ConvoyController
1:03:09– Weather Speculations
1:06:44– Chat with ASICS Australia Nathan Pope on Mission, Gear, and Activations
1:14:38– Chat with TCS Sydney Marathon Operations Director Simon Bryan on MotionFestival
1:22:47– Tourism Chat with Tourism Expert Jude O’Shea on Must-Sees, Should-Sees, andExtras
1:41:34– Foodie Information
1:49:44– Taper Chat with Olympian and iFIT Trainer Luis Orta
Top-TierCarbo-Loading (Book 30–45 Days Out):
· Ragazzi Wine &Pasta (CBD)
· Grappa at The Rocks(The Rocks)
· Neptune's Grotto(CBD)
· Grana(Circular Quay)
· Flaminia(CBD) & Paloo(Freshwater)
· Pellegrino 2000(Surry Hills)
· Totti’s(CBD / Bondi / Rozelle)
CasualItalian & Pizza:
· Zia Pina Pizzeria(The Rocks)
· Il Baretto(Paddington)
· Arthur's Pizza(Surry Hills)
· Bill & Toni’s(Darlinghurst)
High-EndPost-Race Celebrations & Harbour Views:
· Cafe Sydney(Customs House)
· Canvas at MCA(The Rocks Rooftop)
· Opera Bar& Bennelong(Sydney Opera House)
· Icebergs Dining Room(Bondi Beach)
· Midden by Mark Olive(Opera House)
· Aster Bar(InterContinental 32nd Floor)
· Crown Sydney Barangaroofeaturing Epicurean($110 AUD seafood buffet), Nobu,a'Mare,and Woodcut
Post-MarathonPubs & Breweries:
· The Squire's Landing(James Squire) (Overseas PassengerTerminal)
· Fortune of War(Sydney’s Oldest Pub)
· The Glenmore Hotel(Rooftop Harbour Views)
· The Orient Hotel(Historic Pub with Live Music)
· The Doss House(Irish Pub with Live Sunday Tunes)
· Website: marathonjournal.com
· Podcast: Listen on Apple Podcasts & Spotify
· Instagram: @MarathonJournal_
If youfound this guide helpful, don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE,and hit the NOTIFICATION BELLto stay updated on all things distance running!
📖 READ THE FULLARTICLE & INTERACTIVE MAPS:⏱️ TIMESTAMPS / CHAPTERS🍝 THE SYDNEY RUNNER'SDINING GUIDE (FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE)🌐 CONNECT WITHMARATHON JOURNAL
"Your Story Your Why" - Michael Otteson - Episode 8
What does it take to miss an Olympic Trials Qualifying mark by just six seconds—and come back hungrier than ever? In this episode of Your Story, Your Why, we sit down with Utah-based marathoner, content …
Show notes
What does it take to miss an Olympic Trials Qualifying mark by just six seconds—and come back hungrier than ever? In this episode of Your Story, Your Why, we sit down with Utah-based marathoner, content creator, and mechanical engineer Michael Ottesen. Known across the running community for his viral race-finish clips and relentless pursuit of a sub-2:16 marathon, Michael opens up about the childhood roots of his high pain tolerance, his grueling four-year journey as an unrecruited walk-on at BYU, and the harsh reality of balancing 100+ mile training weeks with a full-time engineering career and fatherhood.
Whether you are chasing a personal best or trying to navigate your own setbacks, Michael’s raw perspective on "outsuffering" the field and embracing long-term belief will leave you inspired to step back onto the line.
Resources and Links
Connect with Michael Ottesen: Instagram
Coaching Platform: Let's Tango Running
Follow Marathon Journal: Website
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