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The Rambling Runner Podcast
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Catch the remarkable story of Bill Volpe, who at age 60, achieved a Boston Marathon qualifying time and 3:11 marathon, after starting his running journey at 52. His disciplined approach to training, nutrition, and mental resilience exemplifies that age is just a number when it comes to athletic achievement.
In this episode:
Bill’s initial foray into running and how he transitioned from no running to marathon success
How disciplined routines and strategic pacing contributed to a marathon PR at 60
How hiring a coach helped him step up his training and confidence
The evolution of his competitive mindset and his goals for the future
Discussions on aging, motivation, and staying injury-free
The importance of mindset, consistency, and seizing opportunities in athletic growth
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com and use code RAMBLING to save 10% on your order.
CurraNZ - CurraNZ is a natural runner’s recovery supplement made from New Zealand blackcurrant extract, with over a decade of peer‑reviewed research showing real‑world gains for everyday runners – better performance, smarter fuelling, and faster muscle recovery. Head to curranzusa.com to learn more, and use the code RAMBLING20 to receive 20% your first order from their website.
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Join us as Dan Montgomery shares his remarkable evolution from casual runner to competitive marathoner over 25 years - including a blistering 3:11:53 at the McKirdy Micro Marathon at 51 years old! Discover how disciplined training, strategic nutrition, and unwavering commitment transformed his body and performance. This episode offers valuable insights for runners of all levels aiming for continuous improvement.
Main Topics:
Dan's unlikely start in running and early marathon experiences
His journey through injuries, nutrition adjustments, and body composition changes
How working with a nutritionist and focusing on macros improved his marathon times
The mental shift from health to performance goals
The discipline and routines behind his race day success
Strategies for sodium management and fueling in cold weather
His ambitious long-term goals, including chasing the marathon majors record
The importance of mindset, consistency, and trusting the process
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com and use code RAMBLING to save 10% on your order.
Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Discover how Jesse Gauf turned his life around within a year, shedding over 100 pounds and conquering marathon distances, all while sharing his progress openly online. This episode explores the mental shifts, practical strategies, and community support behind his transformation.
In this episode:
Jesse recounts his fitness journey starting from Navy days to weight ballooning over 340 pounds
Emphasis on focusing on personal versus comparative progress as a key motivator
The importance of consistent habits like walking, training, and strategic goal setting
Overcoming mental hurdles related to masculinity and body image, especially for men
How social sharing has fueled Jesse’s accountability and inspired others
The role of rest, recovery, and strategic nutrition in sustainable progress
Setting ambitious goals like Ironman 70.3 while embracing the process
The power of embracing discomfort and pushing through adversity in endurance events
Recognizing that ordinary stories of perseverance resonate more deeply than superhero tales
Practical tips for beginners on starting with walking, mindset shifts, and setting intentional goals
Follow Jesse at www.instagram.com/jesse.in.motion.
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com and use code RAMBLING to save 10% on your order.
Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%.
The Marathon Project returns December 11–13, 2026 in Chandler, Arizona, offering one of the fastest, most athlete-focused marathon experiences in the country. The event features a Gold Wave amateur race on Saturday and the professional race on Sunday, giving runners the chance to race fast and then watch some of the best athletes in the sport compete the next day. The course is flat and criteria-style with pacers every five minutes from 2:20 to 3:30, bottle service, bag drop, and a top-tier race experience designed for performance. The Gold Wave is open to runners who have run under 3:30 since 2022, and last year 81% of finishers hit their Boston Qualifier. Registration is currently $400 but increases to $500 on April 1. Visit themarathonproject.com and use code roadtothetrials (all lowercase, no spaces) to save $25 on your entry.
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In this episode, we explore Lottie Bildirici’s inspiring journey from battling stress fractures and bone health issues to smashing personal marathon records. She shares her insights on injury prevention, mental resilience, and how purposeful nutrition fuels peak performance.
Main Topics:
Lottie's background in endurance sports and overcoming stress fractures
The impact of nutrition and strength training on injury recovery and bone health
Her evolution from a 5-hour marathoner to a sub-3:40
The role of mindset, confidence, and mental health in running success
Practical nutrition tips, especially for race week and everyday sustainability
How professional athlete insights shape her approach for amateurs
The importance of community and authenticity in athletic growth
Visit Lottie's website Running on Veggies
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com and use code RAMBLING to save 10% on your order.
Fooster - Check out the player in the online sports nutrition retail world - Fooster! While you're at it, you can pick up the new Rambling Runner Pack to try a variety of sports nutrition options and use code "Runner" to save 15% on your order at www.thefooster.com/products/rambling-runner-pack.
The Marathon Project returns December 11–13, 2026 in Chandler, Arizona, offering one of the fastest, most athlete-focused marathon experiences in the country. The event features a Gold Wave amateur race on Saturday and the professional race on Sunday, giving runners the chance to race fast and then watch some of the best athletes in the sport compete the next day. The course is flat and criteria-style with pacers every five minutes from 2:20 to 3:30, bottle service, bag drop, and a top-tier race experience designed for performance. The Gold Wave is open to runners who have run under 3:30 since 2022, and last year 81% of finishers hit their Boston Qualifier. Registration is currently $400 but increases to $500 on April 1. Visit themarathonproject.com and use code roadtothetrials (all lowercase, no spaces) to save $25 on your entry.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Discover the remarkable story of Wilbur Vale — from struggling with his health and weight as a child to becoming a dedicated runner and advocate for holistic wellness. In this episode, Wilbur shares how faith, community, and resilience propelled his transformation and how he uses his journey to inspire others to live healthier and meaningful lives.
Key Topics:
Wilbur’s pivotal moment: a challenging hike in El Salvador that revealed his pre-diabetic condition
His childhood influences and family culture around food and survival
The mental and emotional challenges of gaining weight again and self-compassion strategies
The importance of community in endurance sports and personal growth
How faith shapes Wilbur’s approach to setbacks, goals, and perseverance
The 90-day challenge focused on physical, mental, and spiritual renewal
Tracking progress with body composition scans versus scale weight
Tips for integrating faith and community into fitness pursuits
Wilbur’s current focus on sustainable health practices and goal setting
Follow Wilbur’s Instagram
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com and use code RAMBLING to save 10% on your order.
Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%.
The Marathon Project returns December 11–13, 2026 in Chandler, Arizona, offering one of the fastest, most athlete-focused marathon experiences in the country. The event features a Gold Wave amateur race on Saturday and the professional race on Sunday, giving runners the chance to race fast and then watch some of the best athletes in the sport compete the next day. The course is flat and criteria-style with pacers every five minutes from 2:20 to 3:30, bottle service, bag drop, and a top-tier race experience designed for performance. The Gold Wave is open to runners who have run under 3:30 since 2022, and last year 81% of finishers hit their Boston Qualifier. Registration is currently $400 but increases to $500 on April 1. Visit themarathonproject.com and use code roadtothetrials (all lowercase, no spaces) to save $25 on your entry.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Last weekend, Nick Lee set the fastest known time on the Cape Cod Traverse, self-supported -male. He finished the 64.6 mile route in 11:06:54. Nick is a longtime friend and I couldn’t wait to talk to him about the effort and the training/planning that led into it.
You can view the effort here: https://fastestknowntime.com/route/cape-cod-traverse-ma
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com and use code RAMBLING to save 10% on your order.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Canyon Woodward has progressed from casual runner during his college years to one of the best trail and ultra runners in the world. It is a remarkable rise for a Harvard educated political operative who balances a calm equanimity with a passion for competition. In this episode, Canyon describes his rise from living at the doorstep of the Appalachian trail to a Western States golden ticket.
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com and use code RAMBLING to save 10% on your order.
Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%.
Fooster - Check out the player in the online sports nutrition retail world - Fooster! While you're at it, you can pick up the new Rambling Runner Pack to try a variety of sports nutrition options and use code "Runner" to save 15% on your order at www.thefooster.com/products/rambling-runner-pack.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this powerful conversation, Patrick Yalon shares his transformative experience after a near-fatal surfing accident, exploring how a life-altering event can redefine purpose, self-love, and spiritual connection. His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound lessons learned through endurance races and inner reflection.
Here’s the iRunFar article mentioned in the episode:https://www.irunfar.com/still-here-running-the-moab-240-mile-after-a-near-death-surfing-accident
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com.
Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%.
Fooster - Check out the player in the online sports nutrition retail world - Fooster! While you're at it, you can pick up the new Rambling Runner Pack to try a variety of sports nutrition options and use code "Runner" to save 15% on your order at www.thefooster.com/products/rambling-runner-pack.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, Abdul Said shares his transformative journey from a sedentary lifestyle and health scare to running his first marathon in Osaka. Discover how he shifted his perspective on food, incorporated running into his daily routine, and embraced the vibrant Japanese running culture along the way.
You can follow Abdul at www.instagram.com/osakamiles.
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com.
Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%.
Fooster - Check out the player in the online sports nutrition retail world - Fooster! While you're at it, you can pick up the new Rambling Runner Pack to try a variety of sports nutrition options and use code "Runner" to save 15% on your order at www.thefooster.com/products/rambling-runner-pack.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Black Canyon 100k is knows as one of the best and fasted 100k trail races in America. And for good reason. The list of elite athletes in the top 10 every year is talented and experienced.
But what is this like for a dedicated amateur runner?
Dr. Jess Mena returns to the show to talk about her experience on the Black Canyon course, how difficult the final 2/3 of the race course, the "trauma bonding" she experienced on the trail, and much more.
You can follow Jess at www.instagram.com/tempo_with_jess.
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com.
Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%.
Fooster - Check out the player in the online sports nutrition retail world - Fooster! While you're at it, you can pick up the new Rambling Runner Pack to try a variety of sports nutrition options and use code "Runner" to save 15% on your order at www.thefooster.com/products/rambling-runner-pack.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Discover how Laken transformed her life from weighing 290 pounds to conquering a half marathon in 2:05 (9:34 pace). Dive into her mindset shifts, actionable habits, and the power of perseverance that can inspire anyone on their health and fitness journey.
You can follow Laken at www.instagram.com/laken_40.
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com.
Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%.
Fooster - Check out the player in the online sports nutrition retail world - Fooster! While you're at it, you can pick up the new Rambling Runner Pack to try a variety of sports nutrition options and use code "Runner" to save 15% on your order at www.thefooster.com/products/rambling-runner-pack.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, Dr. Sara Tanza breaks down the complex world of pelvic floor anatomy, its crucial role in running and overall health, and how to proactively care for this often-overlooked muscle group before, during, and after pregnancy. She also talks about how this is an issue for all athletes, not just women.
Whether you're an athlete, coach, or medical professional, learn why addressing pelvic health can enhance performance and prevent long-term issues.
You can learn more about Sara at https://pelvicpotential.com.
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com.
Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%.
Fooster - Check out the player in the online sports nutrition retail world - Fooster! While you're at it, you can pick up the new Rambling Runner Pack to try a variety of sports nutrition options and use code "Runner" to save %15 on your order at www.thefooster.com/products/rambling-runner-pack.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Join me as I chat with Josh Lerch, whose running journey is both inspiring and unconventional - and lead him to a 2:30 marathon, and 6 minute PR, at Surf City last weekend.
Starting in Michigan, Josh unexpectedly found his passion for cross country, learning crucial lessons from a memorable bonk at the state meet when going after one of the best runners of our generation. It's a story you won't want to miss!
His path led him through college challenges and into the vibrant New York City running scene, where he rekindled his love for the sport.
Life took another turn as Josh moved to California, discovering trail running and surfing, which reshaped his relationship with running. He shares how career changes and life transitions influenced his athletic pursuits, emphasizing adaptability and joy in the journey. Josh's approach to nutrition, training, and mental resilience in marathons and ultramarathons offers valuable insights.
A key theme is the role of relationships, coaching, and goal-setting in his evolution as a runner. Josh candidly discusses overcoming setbacks, including postpartum depression, and finding renewed purpose. His future plans are ambitious, with high-speed track races and trail adventures ahead.
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com.
Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Discover how Miguel Peralta transitioned from a reluctant teen to an elite amateur runner running a 2:47 marathon. In this episode, he shares insights on building endurance, mental resilience, and maintaining consistency in training. I couldn't wait to re-share this episode as it was one of the most fun and impactful episodes we've every recorded on the show.
You can follow Miguel at www.instagram.com/smalls26.2.
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com.
Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%.
Rocket Money - Rocket Money has saved users over $2.5 billion, including over $880 million in canceled subscriptions alone. Their 10 million members save up to $740 a year when they use all of the app's premium features! Go to www.rocketmoney.com/gorun.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, Kim Urmaza shares her inspiring story of turning her life around through endurance sports, the importance of listening to your body, and evolving from a competitive mindset to one of sustainable growth. You'll learn how her approach to training and racing shifted from metric obsession to intuitive efforts, emphasizing mental resilience and self-awareness - resulting in 3:10 marathon at Houston.
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com.
Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%.
Rocket Money - Rocket Money has saved users over $2.5 billion, including over $880 million in canceled subscriptions alone. Their 10 million members save up to $740 a year when they use all of the app's premium features! Go to www.rocketmoney.com/gorun.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, I welcome Justin Williams, a former college football player turned running community leader, to discuss his journey from the football field to facilitating vibrant running communities in urban areas.
We explore the challenges and rewards of creating inclusive spaces for runners of all levels, the importance of word-of-mouth growth, and the balance between personal running goals and community leadership. Justin shares insights on fostering a supportive environment with the Unseen Run Club where no runner is left behind and the significance of maintaining authenticity in partnerships and collaborations.
Visit Justin on Instagram at www.instagram.com/this.jvstin.
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com.
Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%.
Fooster - Check out the player in the online sports nutrition retail world - Fooster! While you're at it, you can pick up the new Rambling Runner Pack to try a variety of sports nutrition options at www.thefooster.com/products/rambling-runner-pack.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Bart Yasso, a legendary figure in the running community. We discuss the most underrated and races in the U.S. along with an alternate for each if the timing of the race doesn't work with your schedule.
Bart shares his experiences and insights on these races, highlighting their unique features and the vibrant running communities they foster.
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com.
Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Alex Hermanson, a dedicated runner whose journey is both inspiring and relatable. We delved into Alex's transition from a college baseball player to a passionate runner, highlighting his humility and love for the sport.
Alex shared his initial struggles with running, his motivation sparked by watching his girlfriend's marathon, and how he embraced the running community. His story is a testament to perseverance, self-discovery, and the joy of running.
Here is a link to all of Alex's social channels: https://linktr.ee/hermruns
Sponsors
Winter Challenge - I’m officially signed up for the Winter Challenge with Race Cancer Foundation and I want you in it with me. It’s a daily walk/run challenge all January—log at least 1 mile a day to keep your streak alive. Join me and save $5 on registration with code RAMBLINGRUNNER and be sure to join my team, the Rambling Runners, while you're at it. Sign up at app.winterchallenge.org.
Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%.
Rocket Money - Rocket Money has saved users over $2.5 billion, including over $880 million in canceled subscriptions alone. Their 10 million members save up to $740 a year when they use all of the app's premium features! Go to www.rocketmoney.com/gorun.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this minisode, I discuss the importance of zoomed-out and zoomed-in goals for the new year as well as the need to plan for potential setbacks and maintain consistency in pursuing goals. I also share my personal fitness goals and introduce the Winter Challenge with the Race Cancer Foundation, encouraging you to join and support the cause.
I’m officially signed up for the Winter Challenge with Race Cancer Foundation and I want you in it with me.
It’s a daily walk/run challenge all January—log at least 1 mile a day to keep your streak alive.
We’re building consistency, holding each other accountable, and raising money to fight cancer.
Join me and save $5 on registration with code RAMBLINGRUNNER and be sure to join my team, the Rambling Runners, while you're at it.
Let’s start the year strong—one mile at a time.
Sign up at app.winterchallenge.org.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This episode is a replay of a recent episode of Road to the Trials - Season Four. As you'll hear, it's an extremely powerful and inspirational look at one of the many runners who are shining their light under the national running radar.
Lindsey Hein and Peter Bromka sit down with JaQuavious Harris for one of their first post-race interviews from the California International Marathon. Jaquavious ran more than two minutes under the Olympic Trials standard, setting a massive marathon personal best and delivering one of the most energetic finish-line interviews of the weekend. In this conversation, he shares his journey to the marathon, his training under coach Ed Eyestone, and how faith, family, and community have shaped his path as a professional runner. This episode offers a deeper look at the story behind a breakthrough performance and the mindset that carried JaQuavious to a 2:13 marathon at CIM.
Sponsors
ASICS - Explore the METASPEED Edge and Sky Tokyo along with the newly released Megablast and Sonicblast at www.asics.com.
Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices




Starts at 3:40.
Blah blah blah, Relay, Relay, Relay. Pay us, pay us, pay us.
Hi Matt - this is the first time I've ever felt moved to make a comment on a podcast. I ran my first marathon this year (London) and I went through exact the same as you. I felt embarrassed when I had to run walk at the end. I felt embarrassed about my embarrassment. When I crossed the line , nothing, just stopped the watch. Got my kit, changed, met my family, went for a well deserved meal. Nothing. no celebration, no emotion, no sense of achievement. I thought I was alone, but I'm so glad I'm not. Thank you so much
im a Michigan runner, and i do not train in winter outside, also sun deception with looking nice but very windy and maybe high of 40. i use treadmill but at least i have a way to run.
I don't know what I could possibly add. This was incredible!