Road to the Trials
- Episódios
- 229
- Publicação
- várias vezes por semana
- Último episódio
- 12 nov 2026
Sobre o podcast
Co-hosts Matt Chittim, Lindsey Hein, and Peter Bromka interview every 2028 Olympic Marathon Trials Qualifier along with a wide-ranging group of industry professionals in preparation for the 2028 Olympic Marathon Trials in St. Louis on March 25th, 2028.
Episódios 229
Ashton Swinford: 30 Marathons, Sugar Water, and a 2:36:51 OTQ
Ashton Swinford joins Lindsey and Peter after running 2:36:51 at the Indy Monumental Marathon, securing her Olympic Trials qualifier with just seconds to spare.Ten years and 30 marathons after debuting in 3:20 …
Notas do episódio
Ashton Swinford joins Lindsey and Peter after running 2:36:51 at the Indy Monumental Marathon, securing her Olympic Trials qualifier with just seconds to spare.
Ten years and 30 marathons after debuting in 3:20, Ashton shares her incredible progression from a college runner who couldn't break 20 minutes in the 5K to an Olympic Trials qualifier. She breaks down her dramatic sprint to the finish, why doing less finally helped her break through a plateau, how she races marathons just three weeks apart, and her unconventional fueling strategy involving homemade sugar water.
A story of patience, persistence, and finding success on your own terms.
Support our Sponsors:
Learn more about being coached by Peter: https://pbrunning.co
Nomio: A 60 mL broccoli sprout shot designed to support hard training by helping reduce oxidative stress and blood lactate levels, so athletes can push harder with lower perceived exertion. Take it three hours before a key session, and use code RTTT15 for 15% off at Drink Nomio or The Feed.
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Courtney Alama: Where Run Club Culture Meets Elite Running
Courtney Alama joins Peter and Lindsey to share her journey from running a 3:02 marathon to qualifying for the 2028 Olympic Trials at CIM. She reflects on overcoming an Achilles injury just weeks before her …
Notas do episódio
Courtney Alama joins Peter and Lindsey to share her journey from running a 3:02 marathon to qualifying for the 2028 Olympic Trials at CIM. She reflects on overcoming an Achilles injury just weeks before her breakthrough race, the importance of finding joy in running, and the unexpected opportunity to race in the elite field at Boston after her original marathon was canceled. Courtney also shares how she's balancing competitive training with her role in the growing Cooldown run club community and why she's setting her sights on even faster times.
Support our Sponsors:
Nomio: A 60 mL broccoli sprout shot designed to support hard training by helping reduce oxidative stress and blood lactate levels, so athletes can push harder with lower perceived exertion. Take it three hours before a key session, and use code RTTT15 for 15% off at Drink Nomio or The Feed.
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Caroline Hill: From NCAA Heartbreak to a Twin Cities Marathon Podium
Caroline Hill of the Hansons-Brooks Distance Project joins Road to the Trials after earning a third-place finish at the Twin Cities Marathon in just her second marathon.Caroline shares how a heartbreaking end …
Notas do episódio
Caroline Hill of the Hansons-Brooks Distance Project joins Road to the Trials after earning a third-place finish at the Twin Cities Marathon in just her second marathon.
Caroline shares how a heartbreaking end to her collegiate career at Wake Forest led her to professional running, why she knew the marathon was her future, and how the Hansons' high-mileage training approach has helped her thrive. She also discusses the shift from chasing a time to racing for a podium spot, the importance of teammates, and what's next on her road to the 2028 Olympic Trials.
Support our Sponsors:
Nomio: A 60 mL broccoli sprout shot designed to support hard training by helping reduce oxidative stress and blood lactate levels, so athletes can push harder with lower perceived exertion. Take it three hours before a key session, and use code RTTT15 for 15% off at Drink Nomio or The Feed.
Arrive at the starting line feeling race-ready with CEP's medical-grade compression socks, trusted by elite athletes for travel and recovery. Road to the Trials listeners can save 15% off their entire order at CEP Running through November 15 with code LRLNYC-15 at checkout, or shop at ceprunning.com
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Andrew Kaye: From College Graduate to 2:12 Marathoner in Weeks
Andrew Kaye knew the marathon was where he belonged. After six years of Division II running at Colorado School of Mines, he realized the shorter distances weren't bringing out his best. So he turned his …
Notas do episódio
Andrew Kaye knew the marathon was where he belonged. After six years of Division II running at Colorado School of Mines, he realized the shorter distances weren't bringing out his best. So he turned his attention to the roads, started coaching himself, and eventually made his marathon debut at Twin Cities, running an impressive 2:12 and finishing second overall.
In this episode of Road to the Trials, Andrew joins Peter to break down his unconventional path to marathon success, from delaying his debut when training and life weren't lining up to building a training program around double workout days, treadmill sessions, and 25-mile long runs.
They discuss how Andrew connected with some of the country's top marathoners, including Hillary Bor, what he's learned from training alongside elite athletes, and why he believes finding what works for your body matters more than following someone else's training plan.
Andrew also shares his race strategy at Twin Cities, including why he refused to check his watch until mile 23, how he's balancing a new full-time job with elite-level training, and why he believes there's still plenty of room to improve as he prepares for the Houston Marathon.
With his sights set on 2028, Andrew is proving that sometimes finding your distance is all it takes to unlock an entirely new level of running.
Support our Sponsors:
Nomio: A 60 mL broccoli sprout shot designed to support hard training by helping reduce oxidative stress and blood lactate levels, so athletes can push harder with lower perceived exertion. Take it three hours before a key session, and use code RTTT15 for 15% off at Drink Nomio or The Feed.
Arrive at the starting line feeling race-ready with CEP's medical-grade compression socks, trusted by elite athletes for travel and recovery. Road to the Trials listeners can save 15% off their entire order at CEP Running through November 15 with code LRLNYC-15 at checkout, or shop at ceprunning.com
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Ari Fisher: How Orangetheory and Unconventional Training Fueled a 2:34 Marathon
Ari Fisher isn't following a traditional path to the Olympic Trials. At 37 years old, she's running faster than ever, incorporating Orangetheory classes into her marathon training, and just ran 2:34:15 at the …
Notas do episódio
Ari Fisher isn't following a traditional path to the Olympic Trials. At 37 years old, she's running faster than ever, incorporating Orangetheory classes into her marathon training, and just ran 2:34:15 at the Twin Cities Marathon to earn her first Olympic Trials qualifying time.
Ari joins Lindsey and Peter to talk about her incredible marathon progression, from a 2:50 debut in Eugene to a 2:40 at Boston and now a fourth-place finish at Twin Cities. She shares how Orangetheory has become part of her training, why she stepped away from a 12-year career in the medical field to pursue running more seriously, and what she's learned about building mileage, strength, and confidence.
The conversation also explores Ari's return to competitive running after years of injuries and burnout, navigating the loss of both parents, and why she believes her best performances are still ahead of her.
With the Olympic Trials officially on her calendar, Ari is just getting started.
Support our Sponsors:
Nomio: A 60 mL broccoli sprout shot designed to support hard training by helping reduce oxidative stress and blood lactate levels, so athletes can push harder with lower perceived exertion. Take it three hours before a key session, and use code RTTT15 for 15% off at Drink Nomio or The Feed.
Arrive at the starting line feeling race-ready with CEP's medical-grade compression socks, trusted by elite athletes for travel and recovery. Road to the Trials listeners can save 15% off their entire order at CEP Running through November 15 with code LRLNYC-15 at checkout, or shop at ceprunning.com
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Paxton Smith: From Miami Schoolteacher to Coaching 200 Runners and a Second Olympic Trials Qualification
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrialsPaxton Smith is headed to his second Olympic Marathon Trials after running 2:15:51 at the McKirdy Micro OTQ. But his journey back to the Trials has …
Notas do episódio
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Paxton Smith is headed to his second Olympic Marathon Trials after running 2:15:51 at the McKirdy Micro OTQ. But his journey back to the Trials has looked very different from his first qualification.
After running at the University of Colorado, Paxton moved to Miami through Teach for America, balancing early morning training in brutal heat and humidity with a demanding teaching career. Now, he's coaching alongside Olympian Luis Orta, helping lead a running community that brings more than 200 athletes to the track at 5:30 a.m.
Paxton joins the show to talk about finding his way through disappointing marathons, how coaching everyday runners has transformed his own relationship with the sport, and what he's learned about fueling, training, and chasing faster times. He also shares why qualifying for his second Trials was so emotional and how he's approaching the next chapter of his running career.
Support our Sponsors:
Nomio: A 60 mL broccoli sprout shot designed to support hard training by helping reduce oxidative stress and blood lactate levels, so athletes can push harder with lower perceived exertion. Take it three hours before a key session, and use code RTTT15 for 15% off at Drink Nomio or The Feed.
Arrive at the starting line feeling race-ready with CEP's medical-grade compression socks, trusted by elite athletes for travel and recovery. Road to the Trials listeners can save 15% off their entire order at CEP Running through November 15 with code LRLNYC-15 at checkout, or shop at ceprunning.com
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Benjamin Bayless: A 2:15 Marathon Debut, Race-Day Mistakes, and Chasing 2:10
Benjamin Bayless ran 2:15:35 in his marathon debut at CIM, securing his 2028 Olympic Trials qualifier on his first attempt. A former collegiate runner at Miami University and Ole Miss, Benjamin made the jump to …
Notas do episódio
Benjamin Bayless ran 2:15:35 in his marathon debut at CIM, securing his 2028 Olympic Trials qualifier on his first attempt. A former collegiate runner at Miami University and Ole Miss, Benjamin made the jump to the marathon immediately after graduation and quickly proved he belonged at the elite level.
He joins Peter to break down his unconventional path to the marathon, including a 64-minute half marathon in Copenhagen, the training philosophy that helped him build confidence without excessive mileage, and the fueling mistakes that nearly derailed his CIM debut. They get into critical velocity training, racing tactics, super shoes, and what Benjamin learned from struggling through the final miles of his first marathon.
Benjamin also shares how his obsession with running science turned into a coaching career, his frustration with misinformation in the running world, and why he's interested in exploring ultramarathons. With his Olympic Trials qualifier already secured, he's setting his sights on a sub-63-minute half marathon, a potential 2:10 marathon, and a top-20 finish at the 2028 Trials.
Support our Sponsors:
Nomio: A 60 mL broccoli sprout shot designed to support hard training by helping reduce oxidative stress and blood lactate levels, so athletes can push harder with lower perceived exertion. Take it three hours before a key session, and use code RTTT15 for 15% off at Drink Nomio or The Feed.
Arrive at the starting line feeling race-ready with CEP's medical-grade compression socks, trusted by elite athletes for travel and recovery. Road to the Trials listeners can save 15% off their entire order at CEP Running through November 15 with code LRLNYC-15 at checkout, or shop at ceprunning.com
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Jackie Gaughan: Self-Coaching, 80/20 Training, and Learning to Race Again
Jackie Gaughan is a 2:24 marathoner, Saucony-sponsored athlete, and full-time finance professional who just secured another Olympic Trials qualifier at the Berlin Marathon.After a stretch of disappointing races …
Notas do episódio
Jackie Gaughan is a 2:24 marathoner, Saucony-sponsored athlete, and full-time finance professional who just secured another Olympic Trials qualifier at the Berlin Marathon.
After a stretch of disappointing races and training that left her feeling burned out, Jackie reconsidered what it meant to train like a professional runner. She shares why doing less, prioritizing recovery, and adapting workouts around her demanding career helped her rediscover consistency and confidence.
Peter and Lindsey also talk with Jackie about her remarkable comeback at CIM following a difficult Chicago Marathon, the resilience she developed through setbacks, her experience at the 2024 Olympic Trials, and how she approaches coaching herself. Plus, Jackie reflects on her unconventional path from Notre Dame to elite marathoning and what she's hoping to accomplish heading into the 2028 Olympic Trials in St. Louis.
Support our Sponsors:
Nomio: A 60 mL broccoli sprout shot designed to support hard training by helping reduce oxidative stress and blood lactate levels, so athletes can push harder with lower perceived exertion. Take it three hours before a key session, and use code RTTT15 for 15% off at Drink Nomio or The Feed.
Arrive at the starting line feeling race-ready with CEP's medical-grade compression socks, trusted by elite athletes for travel and recovery. Road to the Trials listeners can save 15% off their entire order at CEP Running through November 15 with code LRLNYC-15 at checkout, or shop at ceprunning.com
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Alex Price: Self-Coached to the Olympic Trials, One Water Cup at a Time
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrialsAlex Price joins Peter and Lindsey after running 2:15:24 at the California International Marathon to qualify for the 2028 Olympic Trials. A former …
Notas do episódio
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Alex Price joins Peter and Lindsey after running 2:15:24 at the California International Marathon to qualify for the 2028 Olympic Trials. A former Division III runner, Alex spent years chasing the qualifying standard while balancing a full-time job, family life, and training almost entirely on his own.
Alex shares how he dropped more than five minutes from his marathon PR, why consistency and quality workouts mattered more than increasing mileage, and what it was like to find himself running alongside Olympians at CIM. He also talks about his unconventional approach to training, fueling with just a handful of gels, skipping personal bottles in favor of water cups, and learning to trust what works for him.
They also discuss the supportive running community in Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley, becoming a father of two, the role his wife has played in his success, and why his mantra, "Keep Moving Forward," applies to much more than running.
Support our Sponsors:
Nomio: A 60 mL broccoli sprout shot designed to support hard training by helping reduce oxidative stress and blood lactate levels, so athletes can push harder with lower perceived exertion. Take it three hours before a key session, and use code RTTT15 for 15% off at Drink Nomio or The Feed.
Arrive at the starting line feeling race-ready with CEP's medical-grade compression socks, trusted by elite athletes for travel and recovery. Road to the Trials listeners can save 15% off their entire order at CEP Running through November 15 with code LRLNYC-15 at checkout, or shop at ceprunning.com
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Diane Neubauer: 12 Seconds to Spare at CIM
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrialsDiane Neubauer is a mom of two, an Air Force wife, a running coach, and an Olympic Trials qualifier who has made some remarkable breakthroughs in the …
Notas do episódio
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Diane Neubauer is a mom of two, an Air Force wife, a running coach, and an Olympic Trials qualifier who has made some remarkable breakthroughs in the marathon over the past few years.
After running collegiately at Cabrini University, Diane stepped away from competitive running before returning to the sport with a new level of commitment. She went from a 3:07 marathon to 2:45, then ran 2:36:48 at CIM to secure her spot at the 2028 Olympic Trials, just 12 seconds under the qualifying standard.
Diane joins Lindsey to share how her relationship with running has evolved, what contributed to her massive improvements, and how she's balanced training with motherhood and military family life. They also talk about the friendships she's built through running, the role her community has played in her success, and her recent 10th-place finish at the USATF 20K Championships.
Support our Sponsors:
Nomio: A 60 mL broccoli sprout shot designed to support hard training by helping reduce oxidative stress and blood lactate levels, so athletes can push harder with lower perceived exertion. Take it three hours before a key session, and use code RTTT15 for 15% off at Drink Nomio or The Feed.
Arrive at the starting line feeling race-ready with CEP's medical-grade compression socks, trusted by elite athletes for travel and recovery. Road to the Trials listeners can save 15% off their entire order at CEP Running through November 15 with code LRLNYC-15 at checkout, or shop at ceprunning.com
Patrick Cullen is Chasing a 2:06 at the Chicago Marathon
Patrick Cullen is heading into the Chicago Marathon this weekend with a big goal: run 2:06 and establish himself as one of the next names to watch in American distance running.At just 24 years old, Patrick has …
Notas do episódio
Patrick Cullen is heading into the Chicago Marathon this weekend with a big goal: run 2:06 and establish himself as one of the next names to watch in American distance running.
At just 24 years old, Patrick has already qualified for the 2028 Olympic Trials after running 2:13:18 in his marathon debut in Ottawa and 2:12:15 just six weeks later at the Gold Coast Marathon. Now, with a marathon-specific training block behind him, he's ready to take a major leap forward.
Patrick joins Peter during race week to talk about his unconventional path from Northeastern to BYU, why he moved to the marathon so early in his career, and the confidence behind his Chicago goal. They get into his 140–150-mile training weeks, his heavy reliance on the treadmill, the fueling changes he believes will make a difference on Sunday, and why he sees the marathon as the ultimate test of endurance.
With his sights set on Chicago and the 2028 Olympic Trials, Patrick is betting on himself in a big way.
Support our Sponsors:
Nomio: A 60 mL broccoli sprout shot designed to support hard training by helping reduce oxidative stress and blood lactate levels, so athletes can push harder with lower perceived exertion. Take it three hours before a key session, and use code RTTT15 for 15% off at Drink Nomio or The Feed.
Arrive at the starting line feeling race-ready with CEP's medical-grade compression socks, trusted by elite athletes for travel and recovery. Road to the Trials listeners can save 15% off their entire order at CEP Running through November 15 with code LRLNYC-15 at checkout, or shop at ceprunning.com
Ainsley Pressl: She Didn’t Think She Was Ready to OTQ
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrialsAinsley Pressl showed up to the McKirdy Marathon calling it a “soft attempt.” She wasn’t convinced she was ready to run the OTQ standard. Her plan …
Notas do episódio
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Ainsley Pressl showed up to the McKirdy Marathon calling it a “soft attempt.” She wasn’t convinced she was ready to run the OTQ standard. Her plan was simply to get in the pace group, hang on as long as she could, and learn from the experience.Instead, she ran 2:36:12 and punched her ticket to the 2028 Olympic Trials.Ainsley joins Peter to talk about the race she never expected to be *the* race, the negative self-talk that followed her deep into the marathon, and the moment she finally realized she was going to make it. She shares her progression from 3:06 in her first marathon to 2:59 at Boston, 2:48 at Chicago, 2:40 at Indy and eventually her OTQ.They also talk about why she never felt like she needed to completely reinvent herself to get faster, learning through plenty of mistakes, improving her fueling, balancing running with a full-time career and a life outside the sport, and why removing the fear of failure has made it easier to take big swings.Plus, Ainsley looks ahead to CIM, her first opportunities in pro fields, and what she imagines when she thinks about lining up in St. Louis in 2028.
Support our Sponsors:
Nomio: A 60 mL broccoli sprout shot designed to support hard training by helping reduce oxidative stress and blood lactate levels, so athletes can push harder with lower perceived exertion. Take it three hours before a key session, and use code RTTT15 for 15% off at Drink Nomio or The Feed.
Kila makes custom performance insoles using super shoe foams, designed specifically for your feet. Just download the Kila app, scan your feet in less than five minutes, and your custom insoles are built and shipped to you. They’re comfortable, responsive, and bring super shoe technology to a personalized insole. Get $50 off your first order at kilarun.com with code ROADTOTHETRIALS.
Anne-Marie Blaney: Racing to Win at Twin Cities
Anne-Marie Blaney has built her marathon career one steady step at a time. After finishing 16th at the 2024 Olympic Trials and running 2:29, the Hansons-Brooks athlete is already qualified for 2028 and focused …
Notas do episódio
Anne-Marie Blaney has built her marathon career one steady step at a time. After finishing 16th at the 2024 Olympic Trials and running 2:29, the Hansons-Brooks athlete is already qualified for 2028 and focused on continuing to evolve as a marathoner.
Anne-Marie joins Lindsey and Peter to talk about nearly nine years with Hansons-Brooks, why patience and consistency have been so important to her progression, and what she learned from racing the 2024 Trials in Orlando. She also shares how moving to Charlotte has changed her training, what she’s learned from running more on her own, and why she chose Twin Cities for her next marathon.
They talk about the difference between racing for time and racing to compete, her goal of working with teammate Caroline at Twin Cities, representing Team USA at World Cross, and the teammates and runners who continue to inspire her.
Plus, Anne-Marie shares her unexpected hobby outside of running: beekeeping.
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Support our Sponsors:
Kila makes custom performance insoles using super shoe foams, designed specifically for your feet. Just download the Kila app, scan your feet in less than five minutes, and your custom insoles are built and shipped to you. They’re comfortable, responsive, and bring super shoe technology to a personalized insole. Get $50 off your first order at kilarun.com with code ROADTOTHETRIALS.
Mitch Ammons: A 2:14 Breakthrough, Addiction, and Life Without Running
Mitch Ammons joins Lindsey and Peter to talk about his 2:14 breakthrough at CIM that secured his spot at the 2028 Olympic Marathon Trials, and the challenging months that followed.Mitch shares why higher …
Notas do episódio
Mitch Ammons joins Lindsey and Peter to talk about his 2:14 breakthrough at CIM that secured his spot at the 2028 Olympic Marathon Trials, and the challenging months that followed.
Mitch shares why higher mileage changed his running, what went right during his CIM build, and how he managed to race on a badly injured ankle. He also opens up about ankle surgery, navigating prescription pain medication after 11 years of sobriety, and the major impact that being unable to run had on his mental health.
Plus, Mitch talks about the parallels between addiction and his drive as a runner, his recovery from surgery, and what comes next as he works his way back.
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Support our Sponsors:
Kila makes custom performance insoles using super shoe foams, designed specifically for your feet. Just download the Kila app, scan your feet in less than five minutes, and your custom insoles are built and shipped to you. They’re comfortable, responsive, and bring super shoe technology to a personalized insole. Get $50 off your first order at kilarun.com with code ROADTOTHETRIALS.
Stephen Jones Is Having Way Too Much Fun Running 2:11
Stephen Jones joins Lindsey and Peter after a breakout 2:11 performance at the Marathon Project secured his Olympic Trials qualifier and opened the door to an opportunity he’s dreamed about: racing the …
Notas do episódio
Stephen Jones joins Lindsey and Peter after a breakout 2:11 performance at the Marathon Project secured his Olympic Trials qualifier and opened the door to an opportunity he’s dreamed about: racing the professional field at the New York City Marathon.
Stephen talks about why he still prioritizes fun over chasing splits, how he balances 100-mile weeks with a full-time job in Boulder, and why he believes there’s more in the tank after his 2:11 breakthrough. He also shares how The Track Club helped bring him back to competitive running after burnout, the story behind his unforgettable finish at Bolder Boulder, and what support from Bandit has meant as an unsponsored athlete getting closer to the professional level.
They also get into his long-distance relationship with fellow Trials qualifier and medical student Maddie Alm, his approach to New York’s notoriously difficult course, “delusional confidence,” and why he’s trying not to look too far ahead to March 2028.
Stephen’s biggest reminder heading into New York? Don’t forget to smile.
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Support our Sponsors:Kila makes custom performance insoles using super shoe foams, designed specifically for your feet. Just download the Kila app, scan your feet in less than five minutes, and your custom insoles are built and shipped to you. They’re comfortable, responsive, and bring super shoe technology to a personalized insole. Get $50 off your first order at kilarun.com with code ROADTOTHETRIALS.
Paige Wood: Taking the Pressure Off the Clock and Betting on Consistency
Paige Wood joins Lindsey and Peter to talk about the long road back to her best after becoming a mom and what she’s learning as she builds toward her first Olympic Marathon Trials.Paige breaks down her run at …
Notas do episódio
Paige Wood joins Lindsey and Peter to talk about the long road back to her best after becoming a mom and what she’s learning as she builds toward her first Olympic Marathon Trials.
Paige breaks down her run at Boston, why stepping away from chasing a specific time helped her rediscover the fun of racing, and what she learned from a tough day at the Marathon Project. She also opens up about balancing professional running with family planning, the patience required in her postpartum comeback, and why consistency over the next two years matters so much to her.
Plus, Paige shares how a summer of lower mileage and faster work is shaping her New York City Marathon build, what she hopes to learn from racing the majors, life with the rebuilding NAZ Elite team, and why she believes it’s better to arrive at a starting line slightly undercooked than not arrive at all.
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Support our Sponsors:Kila makes custom performance insoles using super shoe foams, designed specifically for your feet. Just download the Kila app, scan your feet in less than five minutes, and your custom insoles are built and shipped to you. They’re comfortable, responsive, and bring super shoe technology to a personalized insole. Get $50 off your first order at kilarun.com with code ROADTOTHETRIALS.
Anna Benedettini: Three Marathon Starts, Two OTQs
Anna Benedettini is already headed back to the Olympic Trials. She ran 2:33:13 for third at Indy Monumental last fall, earning her second OTQ in just her third marathon start and taking nearly two minutes off …
Notas do episódio
Anna Benedettini is already headed back to the Olympic Trials. She ran 2:33:13 for third at Indy Monumental last fall, earning her second OTQ in just her third marathon start and taking nearly two minutes off the time she ran to qualify for the 2024 Trials.
Anna joins Lindsey and Peter to talk about her breakthrough at Indy, how she rebuilt her relationship with running after five stress fractures in college, and why better fueling, recovery, and a healthier approach to the sport have allowed her to thrive post-collegiately. She also shares what it’s like being coached by her brother, balancing elite-level running with her job at rabbit, and why having a full life outside of running is central to the way she approaches the sport.
With her 2028 qualifier already secured and the Trials coming to her hometown of St. Louis, Anna has time to experiment, chase faster times, and enjoy racing before it’s time to fully lock in again.
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Support our Sponsors:
Kila makes custom performance insoles using super shoe foams, designed specifically for your feet. Just download the Kila app, scan your feet in less than five minutes, and your custom insoles are built and shipped to you. They’re comfortable, responsive, and bring super shoe technology to a personalized insole. Get $50 off your first order at kilarun.com with code ROADTOTHETRIALS.
Kodi Kleven on Leading Boston and Breaking 2:25
Kodi Kleven had one of the biggest breakthroughs of the spring, running 2:24:48 at Boston after finding herself at the front of the race early on. She joins Peter to talk about what it felt like to lead the …
Notas do episódio
Kodi Kleven had one of the biggest breakthroughs of the spring, running 2:24:48 at Boston after finding herself at the front of the race early on. She joins Peter to talk about what it felt like to lead the Boston Marathon, why she was able to stay calm in the moment, and how a performance she once couldn’t imagine became her new PR.
Kodi also shares how training with Ed Eyestone’s Run Elite group has changed her running, the lessons she’s learned from years of injuries, underfueling, and overtraining, and why nutrition, recovery, strength work, and learning to trust the people around her have become such a big part of her progress.
They also talk about her background in trail running, why she still sees trails in her future, working through her current injury, and what it will take to stay healthy and make it to the 2028 Olympic Trials in St. Louis.Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Thank you to our sponsors:
Kila makes custom performance insoles using super shoe foams, designed specifically for your feet. Just download the Kila app, scan your feet in less than five minutes, and your custom insoles are built and shipped to you. They’re comfortable, responsive, and bring super shoe technology to a personalized insole. Get $50 off your first order at kilarun.com with code ROADTOTHETRIALS.
Brooke Wildermuth Went From 4:11 to 2:35
Brooke Wildermuth’s first marathon was a 4:11. She was fresh out of college, working in consulting, traveling Monday through Thursday, and running mostly because she loved it. Fast forward a few years and …
Notas do episódio
Brooke Wildermuth’s first marathon was a 4:11. She was fresh out of college, working in consulting, traveling Monday through Thursday, and running mostly because she loved it. Fast forward a few years and Brooke is a 2:35 marathoner headed to the 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials.
Brooke joins Lindsey and Peter to talk about the huge progression that started when she joined Brooklyn Track Club and decided she wanted to see how good she could get. After running 3:14 at New York and 2:44 at Chicago, Brooke had her son and faced a much harder postpartum return than she expected, including a serious infection and a femoral stress reaction that forced her to stop running.
She shares how she rebuilt through cross-training, returned to marathon training, and ultimately ran 2:35:48 at McKirdy to secure her Olympic Trials qualifier. Brooke also talks about balancing running with motherhood and future family plans, what she hopes to chase at CIM this fall, and why she’s still curious to find out just how fast she can go.
Thank you to our sponsors:
Kila makes custom performance insoles using super shoe foams, designed specifically for your feet. Just download the Kila app, scan your feet in less than five minutes, and your custom insoles are built and shipped to you. They’re comfortable, responsive, and bring super shoe technology to a personalized insole. Get $50 off your first order at kilarun.com with code ROADTOTHETRIALS.
Colin Bennie: Two Top-10 Olympic Trials Finishes and More in the Tank
Colin Bennie has already proven he can show up when it matters, finishing ninth at the 2020 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials and tenth in 2024. Now officially qualified for 2028, he joins Lindsey and Peter to talk …
Notas do episódio
Colin Bennie has already proven he can show up when it matters, finishing ninth at the 2020 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials and tenth in 2024. Now officially qualified for 2028, he joins Lindsey and Peter to talk about what’s next.
Colin shares the highs and lows of his marathon career, from becoming the top American at Boston to taking big swings that don’t always pay off. He talks about training mostly solo under longtime coach Chris Fox, trusting what works instead of chasing massive mileage, and balancing elite running with his full-time data engineering job for the Miami Marlins.
With a baby on the way, Colin is putting family first this fall before turning his attention back to racing and another Olympic Trials buildup. He talks about longevity in the sport, learning from tough races, and why he still wants the chance to find out just how fast he can run.
Thank you to our sponsors:
ZBiotics is a genetically engineered pre-alcohol probiotic designed to help break down an alcohol byproduct associated with rough mornings. Take it before your first drink to enjoy your night without sacrificing the next day. Get 15% off your first order at zbiotics.com with code TRIALS26.
Kila makes custom performance insoles using super shoe foams, designed specifically for your feet. Just download the Kila app, scan your feet in less than five minutes, and your custom insoles are built and shipped to you. They’re comfortable, responsive, and bring super shoe technology to a personalized insole. Get $50 off your first order at kilarun.com with code ROADTOTHETRIALS.
Hillary Bor: From Olympic Steeplechaser to 2:08 Marathoner
Hillary Bor built his career as one of America’s top steeplechasers, becoming a two-time Olympian before making the move to the marathon. Now, after running 2:08 in Rotterdam, he has his sights set on going …
Notas do episódio
Hillary Bor built his career as one of America’s top steeplechasers, becoming a two-time Olympian before making the move to the marathon. Now, after running 2:08 in Rotterdam, he has his sights set on going sub-2:06 and making another Olympic team in 2028.
Hillary joins Lindsey and Peter to talk about what he’s learned through his first two marathons, how marathon training compares to the steeplechase, and why patience, fueling, and endurance have become such a big focus. He also shares his remarkable path from coming to the U.S. on a college scholarship to serving in the Army while training at an elite level, and why he credits the military with helping shape both his running career and his mindset.
They also talk about studying his competitors, averaging 130 miles per week, learning from training partners, and why he believes the 2028 Olympic Trials could be one of the most competitive yet.
In this episode:
Transitioning from the steeplechase to the marathon
Running 2:08 in Rotterdam and chasing sub-2:06
His goal of making a third Olympic team
Serving in the U.S. Army while training professionally
Why the military shaped his approach to competition
Learning marathon fueling and race strategy
Training 130-mile weeks
Studying his competitors ahead of 2028
Looking ahead to Valencia and the Olympic Trials
Thank you to our sponsors:
ZBiotics is a genetically engineered pre-alcohol probiotic designed to help break down an alcohol byproduct associated with rough mornings. Take it before your first drink to enjoy your night without sacrificing the next day. Get 15% off your first order at zbiotics.com with code TRIALS26.
Kila makes custom performance insoles using super shoe foams, designed specifically for your feet. Just download the Kila app, scan your feet in less than five minutes, and your custom insoles are built and shipped to you. They’re comfortable, responsive, and bring super shoe technology to a personalized insole. Get $50 off your first order at kilarun.com with code ROADTOTHETRIALS.
Road to the Trials: The Road Ahead
Hi all! We wanted to pop on with a quick update from the Road to the Trials team, revisit a few of our past episodes, and share a little of what’s ahead.We’re taking a down week, but there’s a lot coming this …
Notas do episódio
Hi all! We wanted to pop on with a quick update from the Road to the Trials team, revisit a few of our past episodes, and share a little of what’s ahead.
We’re taking a down week, but there’s a lot coming this fall. We have a ton of great interviews lined up with more athletes on their Road to the Trials, so buckle up. We’re just getting started!
And if you’ve been enjoying the show, consider supporting us on Patreon. Your support helps us keep telling these stories and fueling the Road to the Trials.
Support us here: https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Sarah Czuprynski Went From a 4:04 Marathon to an OTQ
Sarah Czuprynski will be the first to tell you that the marathon has never come naturally to her. In fact, she’ll also tell you she hates it.Her first marathon took more than four hours. She eventually …
Notas do episódio
Sarah Czuprynski will be the first to tell you that the marathon has never come naturally to her. In fact, she’ll also tell you she hates it.
Her first marathon took more than four hours. She eventually qualified for Boston, broke three hours for the first time at New York, dropped her PR to 2:43, and then ran 2:36 at CIM to qualify for the 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials. Most recently, she lowered her PR again to 2:35 at Grandma’s Marathon. Her progression is pretty incredible, but Sarah’s story is about so much more than the times she’s run.
Sarah takes Peter through her entire marathon journey, including the heartbreaking story behind her first marathon. Her dad, who was her biggest supporter, unexpectedly passed away just before he was supposed to fly to Los Angeles to watch her race. When Sarah finally ran the LA Marathon the following year, she carried his ashes and a cross around her neck for all 26.2 miles.
This is an inspiring episode, enjoy!
Kila makes custom performance insoles using super shoe foams, designed around your unique foot shape. The process takes less than five minutes using your phone, and your custom insoles are shipped directly to you.
Get $50 off your first order at KilaRun.com with code ROADTOTHETRIALS.
Want even more Road to the Trials? Join Peter and Lindsey on Patreon for bonus episodes, deep dives, Trials predictions, Q&As, and plenty of marathon geekery as we count down to 2028.
Join the Road to the Trials Patreon at Patreon.com/relayandtrials.
Breanna Sieracki: Baby #3, Another Olympic Trials, and the Belief That Sub-2:30 Is Coming
Breanna Sieracki joins Lindsey and Peter on Road to the Trials after qualifying for her second Olympic Marathon Trials and with baby number three on the way.Breanna’s path to the marathon is such a good one …
Notas do episódio
Breanna Sieracki joins Lindsey and Peter on Road to the Trials after qualifying for her second Olympic Marathon Trials and with baby number three on the way.
Breanna’s path to the marathon is such a good one. She came out of college as a steeplechaser and 5K runner who swore she would never run a marathon. Then, during her first pregnancy, she started wondering what it might look like to train for one postpartum. She debuted at CIM 10 months after having her first daughter, then came back at Grandma’s Marathon in 2023 and ran 2:33 to qualify for the 2024 Olympic Trials.
We talk about how motherhood has changed Breanna as an athlete, learning to give herself more grace in training, and what she’s learned through multiple postpartum rebuilds. She also takes us inside Minnesota Distance Elite, her relationship with Coach Lundstrom, and the individualized training that has helped her grow from a relatively low-mileage college runner into someone who thrives during 80–110 mile marathon weeks.
Breanna also opens up about her difficult day at Boston, the vulnerable post about her race that unexpectedly went viral, and how hard it was to deal with criticism and comments about her body while already processing the disappointment of the race itself. We talk about the patience required when you know the fitness and the potential are there, but life means the next opportunity may still be a ways off.Her message at the end of this conversation says it best: you can chase multiple dreams. Your path might look different from someone else’s, but that doesn’t mean you have to choose only one.
Carrie Ellwood’s Rise From First Grade Teacher to 2:22 Marathoner
Carrie Ellwood is having the kind of year that can change a running career. She finished 10th overall and fourth American at the Boston Marathon in 2:22, signed her first professional contract with ASICS …
Notas do episódio
Carrie Ellwood is having the kind of year that can change a running career. She finished 10th overall and fourth American at the Boston Marathon in 2:22, signed her first professional contract with ASICS shortly after, and has firmly put herself in the conversation as someone to watch heading toward the 2028 Olympic Marathon Trials.
Carrie spent seven years as a first grade teacher while continuing to train and compete at a high level. Two years ago, she stepped away from the classroom without a big contract waiting for her or a breakout race guaranteeing that professional running would work out. She simply knew she would regret it if she didn’t give herself the chance to see how good she could be. Now, that bet on herself is paying off.
Thank you to our sponsors:
ZBiotics is a genetically engineered probiotic designed to support your body before drinking. Their pre-alcohol probiotic is formulated to break down the byproduct of alcohol that can lead to rough mornings, helping you feel better the next day while still enjoying a social night out. Developed by a team of PhD microbiologists, it’s designed to be taken before your first drink as part of a more intentional approach to alcohol consumption. If you’re looking to balance enjoying a night out without sacrificing how you feel the next day, you can learn more and get 15% off your first order at zbiotics.com using the code trials26 at checkout.
Precision Fuel & Hydration offers a personalized approach to fueling and hydration, helping athletes dial in exactly what their body needs before, during, and after training. With a wide range of products including drink mixes, gels, chews, and electrolyte solutions, it makes it easy to build a fueling strategy that fits your routine, whether you're heading out for a long run or racing. What sets them apart is their individualized fueling plans, designed around your specific sweat rate and sodium needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. You can learn more and get 15% off your first order at precisionhydration.com using the code trials26 at checkout.
Patreon preview...
Hey running geeks, we're getting going on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrialsPlease join us over there for special deep dives, Q&As, and other special content we've got cooking up.In this preview we …
Notas do episódio
Hey running geeks, we're getting going on Patreon!
https://www.patreon.com/relayandtrials
Please join us over there for special deep dives, Q&As, and other special content we've got cooking up.
In this preview we share a clip of our 2024 Olympic Marathon Trials episode, my oh my was it fun to dive back into the now 2-year past of USA marathoning, which begins to serve as a preview for the Trials in St. Louis in under 24 months.
Thank you for your support of this project of love!
Murphy Smith Ran 2:08 in Just His Second Marathon
Just one year removed from competing at the NCAA Championships, Murphy Smith has already established himself as one of the brightest young marathoners in the United States. After debuting with a 2:11 at the …
Notas do episódio
Just one year removed from competing at the NCAA Championships, Murphy Smith has already established himself as one of the brightest young marathoners in the United States. After debuting with a 2:11 at the California International Marathon, Murphy returned just months later to run 2:08:58 at the Boston Marathon, earning a spot in the 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials and announcing himself as a serious contender for the future.
In this episode, Murphy shares why he skipped the traditional path of spending years on the track before moving up to the marathon, what he's learned training with the B.A.A. High Performance Team under Mark Carroll, and how balancing graduate school, military service, and elite running has shaped his perspective. He also opens up about overcoming injuries, navigating sleep struggles during his time at the Naval Academy, and the role his faith has played throughout his running journey.
In this episode, we cover:
- Running 2:08:58 at the Boston Marathon in just his second marathon
- Why he moved to the marathon immediately after college
- Training alongside Galen Rupp and Robert Miranda at Boston
- Life with the B.A.A. High Performance Team and coach Mark Carroll
- Building from 97-mile weeks in college to 130-mile marathon training
- Balancing graduate school, military service, and elite running
- His upcoming Chicago Marathon goals
- Serving in the U.S. Navy and preparing for nuclear power school
- Learning to embrace flexibility instead of rigid training
- How his Christian faith has helped him through setbacks and success
- Looking ahead to the 2028 Olympic Marathon Trials and beyond
Follow Murphy:
Instagram: @murphysmith__Thank you to our sponsors:
Precision Fuel & Hydration helps runners simplify fueling with personalized plans based on carbs, fluids, and sodium. Their science-backed tools and resources make it easier to train and race with confidence. Use code Trials26 for 15% off at precisionhydration.com.
Goodr sunglasses combine a no-slip, no-bounce fit with polarized lenses and fun designs that are built for running, travel, and everyday adventures. Lightweight, affordable, and made to move with you. Get $10 off your first order at goodr.com/trials
Inside Robert Miranda's Breakthrough 2:09 Marathon
Robert Miranda's marathon breakthrough didn't happen overnight. After narrowly missing his goals in Chicago, withdrawing from the 2024 Olympic Marathon Trials, and learning some hard lessons through …
Notas do episódio
Robert Miranda's marathon breakthrough didn't happen overnight. After narrowly missing his goals in Chicago, withdrawing from the 2024 Olympic Marathon Trials, and learning some hard lessons through self-coaching, he returned to Boston this spring to run a lifetime best of 2:09:40 and officially join the growing list of American men under 2:10.
In this conversation, Robert shares his unique journey from Yale student and UCLA mathematics PhD to the B.A.A. High Performance Team, why he believes consistency matters more than perfect workouts, and how becoming a father has reshaped both his running and his perspective. He also reflects on the setbacks that nearly pulled him away from the sport, what he's learned about racing the marathon, and why his focus is firmly on being ready for the 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials.
Thank you to our sponsors:
Precision Fuel & Hydration helps runners simplify fueling with personalized plans based on carbs, fluids, and sodium. Their science-backed tools and resources make it easier to train and race with confidence. Use code Trials26 for 15% off at precisionhydration.com.
Goodr sunglasses combine a no-slip, no-bounce fit with polarized lenses and fun designs that are built for running, travel, and everyday adventures. Lightweight, affordable, and made to move with you. Get $10 off your first order at goodr.com/trials
From Walk-On to Boston PR: Charlie Sweeney's Road to the Trials
Charlie Sweeney joins us after a personal best at the Boston Marathon to talk about the next chapter of his marathon career and why he believes he's just getting started. The former Division II walk-on turned …
Notas do episódio
Charlie Sweeney joins us after a personal best at the Boston Marathon to talk about the next chapter of his marathon career and why he believes he's just getting started. The former Division II walk-on turned CU Boulder standout reflects on his unconventional path through the sport, working with new coach David Roche, and the lessons he's learned from being coached by — and dating — Olympian Elise Cranny.
Charlie shares what it's like balancing a full-time job at COROS with professional running, why he believes confidence is often the biggest separator between athletes, and how he's approaching the long road toward the 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials.
Thank you to our sponsors:
Precision Fuel & Hydration helps runners simplify fueling with personalized plans based on carbs, fluids, and sodium. Their science-backed tools and resources make it easier to train and race with confidence. Use code Trials26 for 15% off at precisionhydration.com.
How Rachel Schilkowsky Finally Solved the Marathon
Rachel Schilkowsky joins us after earning her spot at the 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials with a breakthrough 2:35:51 and second-place finish at the Vermont City Marathon. A five-time NCAA Division I …
Notas do episódio
Rachel Schilkowsky joins us after earning her spot at the 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials with a breakthrough 2:35:51 and second-place finish at the Vermont City Marathon. A five-time NCAA Division I All-American at Cornell, Rachel is a biomechanical engineer, mom of two, and self-coached athlete who has spent years chasing the marathon she knew she was capable of running.
In this episode, Rachel shares how returning to racing after having two children changed her perspective, why finally dialing in her fueling strategy made all the difference, and what it was like racing alongside Kellen Taylor on the way to her Olympic Trials qualifier. We also talk about self-coaching, balancing family life with elite training, the Green Racing Project, and why she's still chasing big goals on both the roads and the track.
Thank you to our sponsors:
Precision Fuel & Hydration helps runners simplify fueling with personalized plans based on carbs, fluids, and sodium. Their science-backed tools and resources make it easier to train and race with confidence. Use code Trials26 for 15% off at precisionhydration.com.
Aqui estão os 40 episódios mais recentes de 229. Os mais antigos estão no feed do podcast.
Podcasts parecidos
Mais podcasts de Esportes
Este podcast é seu?
Confirme com uma entrada no seu feed: você recebe um código aqui, adiciona como podcast:txt no canal do seu feed e nós verificamos. Depois disso, seu podcast aparece como “verificado” no SoundNode.