THE RUNNING EFFECT PODCAST

America’s next great distance runner might not be a pro, he might be a junior at Wake Forest.At the 2025 NCAA Division I Cross Country Championships on November 22, Rocky Hansen delivered the race of his life, finishing second overall and coming within striking distance of the national title. Last year, Rocky placed 100th at this same meet, so his surge is proof that he’s putting himself up there with the best who can do it right now.But rising to the front at the national championship level is nothing new for Rocky.Before Wake Forest, he was a three-time North Carolina Gatorade Player of the Year (twice for track, once for XC) and a 10-time state record holder, including 3:58.23 for the mile, becoming the first in North Carolina to break the 4:00 barrier in high school.At Wake Forest, Rocky has only continued to elevate. He holds PRs of 3:38 (1500m), 3:57 (mile), 7:56 (3000m), and a stunning 13:07 5000m, which broke the Wake Forest school record and established him as one of the fastest collegiate 5K runners in NCAA history. He also placed 5th in the NCAA Outdoor 5000m last year.Rocky Hansen’s story is still being written, but after finishing second on the biggest stage in the NCAA and making a massive leap from last year, it’s clear he’s ready for the spotlight.Tap into the Rocky Hansen Special.If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I’ll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

Enter Oliver Horton, the high school Colorado phenom everyone will be talking about this season.At just 17 years old and a high school junior at Coronado High School (in Colorado Springs), he is already a state champion, a sub-14:30 performer, and a name climbing the national rankings, having just become the 2025 Colorado 4A state XC champion.He didn’t just become the first Colorado runner to break 15 minutes on the tough Norris Penrose course in Colorado, he obliterated the previous course record, clocking 14:48. (For comparison, 2024 NCAA 5,000 National Champion Parker Wolfe ran 15:10 in 2020).He has benefited from the consistency of running for coach Lisa Rainsberger for the previous 10 years.Oliver’s PR on the grass is a sizzling 14:23.9, which he ran this past September. On the track he ran 4:08.93 in the mile outdoors and 8:54.94 in the 3200m. Every generation has its defining runner. For Colorado, for 2025, and maybe for the nation, Oliver Horton is making his case. The records speak. The rankings confirm it. But the story behind it all? That’s what we’re digging into.  Tap into the Oliver Horton Special.If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I’ll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER HERE: https://therundownbytherunningeffect.substack.comWhat if your next breakthrough doesn’t come from doubling down on workouts, but from ten small habits hiding in plain sight?In this month’s check-in, Alex Ostberg sits down with Dominic to unpack his latest deep dives.They begin with Alex’s “Playbook of Greatness,” exploring why the best athletes in the world aren’t defined by big heroic moments, but by the quiet, repeatable habits that shape their days. From structuring your environment to lowering the friction around training, Alex breaks down the kind of consistency that compounds into major gains.That naturally leads into a surprising question: Is it time to retire stretching? Alex challenges the long-held rituals that runners swear by, making a compelling case for smarter mobility, intentional strength work, and knowing what actually contributes to performance.From there, the conversation zooms out to recovery. Drawing from his “Hierarchy of Recovery Needs,” the guys look atwhat truly sits at the foundation of a successful recovery in the running space.They also look at team dynamics and Alex’s idea of “viruses” that infect culture. Whether you’re on a high school squad or a professional training group, subtle habits–good or bad–spread fast.If you’re ready to rethink your approach from the inside out, this conversation delivers clarity, direction, and the kind of insights that can change a season. Hit play and level up.Tap into the Alex Ostberg Special.If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I’ll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

From American-record brilliance to a late-career grind, Evan Jager’s story has been one of constant adaptation. But now he’s ready to call it quits and move onto the next phase of life without running. The late-career push included an 8th place finish in the men’s 3000m steeplechase at the U.S. Championships in 8:28.21 this year. He also ran the New Balance 5th Avenue Mile in September of this year and came in 19th with a 3:54.9. Jager originally made a name for himself when he set the 3000m Steeplechase American Record in July of 2015 with a 8:00.45. His other PRs include 13:02.40 in the 5,000m; 7:35.16 in the 3,000m; and 3:32.97 in the 1,500m. After one year in the NCAA ranks as a Wisconsin Badger (he came in 8th in the 1,500m at outdoors during the 2008 season), Jager turned professional. He then went on to win seven consecutive U.S. steeplechase titles from 2012–2018. He made his presence known on the world stage, grabbing a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Games in the 3000m steeplechase; prior to that he came in 6th at the 2012 London Games in the 3000m steeplechase.After a serious foot injury, Jager burst back on the scene in 2022, nabbing a second place finish at the 2022 USATF outdoor games.Check in as we unpack the peaks, valleys, and lasting legacy of one of America’s most influential distance runners as he flips to the next professional  chapter of his memorable career. Tap into the Evan Jager Special.If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I’ll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

Meet the Harvard engineer who’s running marathons, building companies, and rewriting the future of girls’ sports.Sara Falkson is the Founder and CEO of Robyn / Robyn Athletic, a Sports-bra and body-confidence brand built “by athletes, for athletes,” focused on helping girls stay in sport, which started as a thesis project for her but is now a full-time gig. She also co-founded Reliable Maternity, a lactation-care and equipment company; she is credited as a design lead and co-founder, focused on digital experience and brand.Sara graduated from Dartmouth College in 2022, while being a four-year varsity field hockey player during her time there. She was a two-year captain, Academic All-Ivy and on the NFHCA National Academic Squad.She has also dabbled in distance running and is quite good at it. She has a marathon PR of 3:32:41 ( which she ran at the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon); she has also had a half-marathon PR of 1:41:59 from 2023. She is completing her Harvard Masters Degree in Design Engineering (MDE) while training for her next marathon. From the labs at Harvard to the streets of New York and the fields of Dartmouth, Sara’s mission is clear: give girls the confidence to stay in sport—one athlete, one team, one conversation at a time.Tap into the Sara Falkson Special.If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I’ll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

Few people embody the intersection of endurance and intellect quite like Nicholas Thompson.He's a runner, writer, and CEO of The Atlantic, and in his new book, The Running Ground: A Father, a Son, and the Simplest of Sports, Thompson explores how running has shaped his resilience, his leadership, and his pursuit of meaning in a relentless world.It's a story of motion–literal and metaphorical–from chasing split times on the road to navigating the fast-evolving media landscape.A lifelong competitor, Nicholas has defied convention by getting faster with age. At 44, he ran a blistering 2:29:12 marathon in Chicago; at 46, he set the American 45–49 age-group record in the 50K (3:04:36); and in April 2025, at 50, he won the Lake Waramaug 50-Mile in 5:43:08. His regular "run commutes" through New York and obsession with sleep have become trademarks of his disciplined, data-guided approach; one that keeps him thriving as both an athlete and executive.As CEO of The Atlantic since 2021, Thompson has led the publication into a new era of growth, championing thoughtful journalism amid a fractured digital age. But behind the boardroom and the headlines is a runner who sees training as a mirror for leadership–patience, discomfort, and long-term vision.He's here to reflect on the lessons behind The Running Ground:how running taught him to manage pain and purpose, how endurance builds empathy, and why mastering the miles has made him a better human. Whether you're chasing a PR or perspective, his story is a testament to running not just as a sport, but as a way of thinking–and living–in motion.Tap into the Nicholas Thompson Special.  If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word "PODCAST" below and I'll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

Three-time Olympian Shannon Rowbury knows firsthand the strength and resilience it takes to train at the highest level, especially through pregnancy and motherhood. Now, she’s bringing that same elite mindset to a new arena: women’s health. Alongside her co-author, Jessica Dorrington, a leading pelvic floor and orthopedic physical therapist, Rowbury has created the definitive guide for expectant and new mothers seeking to stay active, confident, and empowered in every stage of pregnancy and postpartum recovery.Their upcoming book, Strong as a Mother: Your Complete Pregnancy-to-Postpartum Health Program, launching February 17, 2026, blends Olympic-level athletic insight with evidence-based medical expertise.Drawing on years of research and personal experience, Rowbury and Dorrington challenge outdated advice that tells women to slow down or avoid movement. Instead, they show that pregnancy can be a time to build strength, connection, and confidence–when guided by the right science and support.With clear, medically-grounded guidance, Strong as a Mother addresses the questions every pregnant athlete and active woman asks: “What’s actually safe? How can I keep training?” From strength training and mobility to recovery and mental health, Rowbury and Dorrington offer a comprehensive, empowering roadmap rooted in both athletic performance and women’s health.Endorsed by Allyson Felix, Jordan Hogan, and Dr. Rachel Goldman, Strong as a Mother is already being hailed as a must-have resource for mothers and mothers-to-be. This will mark the start of a movement to redefine what strength looks like in motherhood.Tap into the Shannon Rowberry and Jessica Dorrington Special.  If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I’ll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

Blending Stanford smarts with relentless drive, Cole Sprout is emerging as one of America’s most exciting young pros. Cole was the NACAC U23 Champion in the 5,000m in 2023 while also coming in 8th at the USATF Championships in the 5,000m the same year.His PRs include a 7:42.41 in the 3,000m indoors in March of 2025; a 13:24.38 in the 5,000m indoors in 2022; a 27:42.42 in the 10,000m in 2022; a 3:56.53 mile in 2022; and a 3:42.27 1,500m in 2021.His time at Stanford from 2020–2024 saw him become a five-time All-American; secure 4th outdoors in the NCAA championship in the 10,000 (2022); run an indoor 3,000m in 7:43.10 (which is number two in school history at the time); and show steady leadership on the grass.Cole recently came in second at the Abbott Dash to the Finish Line 5k in New York amidst an extremely competitive field. He’s also now training under Jerry Schumacher and has his sights set on a whole lot more. He stands at the crossroads of promise and breakthrough, ready to turn potential into podiums on the world stage.Tap into the Cole Sprout Special.  If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I’ll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

After two years of rehab and earning her spot via a Golden Ticket roll-down, Abby Hall stormed into history at the 2025 Western States 100, running 16:37:16 for the fourth-fastest women's time ever and finishing 11th overall.Hall has since cemented herself as one of the premier athletes in the 100K–100-mile range, highlighted by podium finishes at UTMB’s CCC (2nd in 2021, 3rd in 2022), a win at the 2022 Transvulcania 73K, and a debut finish at Western States in 2021.Her résumé includes a 16:37:16 100-mile best and an 8:52:35 trail 100K at Black Canyon — showcasing world-class range when it comes to varying terrain and courses.But her rise did not come without adversity. Early in her ultra career, she scraped under the cutoff at the Leadville 100 in 2017 and 2018. And in June 2023, a training fall resulted in a tibial fracture and major ligament damage, requiring reconstructive knee surgery and a long, uncertain recovery.From scraping cutoff times at Leadville to running one of the fastest Western States in history, Abby Hall’s comeback is the ultimate story of resilience and redemption–and you won’t want to miss how she did it. Tap into the Abby Hall Special.  If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I’ll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

No American runner made more noise in 2025 than Nico Young.The 23-year-old prodigy smashed the 5,000m American record, claimed his first national title, and battled the world’s best in Tokyo. In June, he stormed through the Bislett Games in Oslo, running 12:45.27 for 5,000 meters, which was a new American record. Barely two months later, he claimed his first U.S. title at 10,000 meters in Eugene, clocking 29:02.12 to solidify his dominance on home soil. Then, on the world’s biggest stage in Tokyo, Young placed fifth in the 10,000m at the 2025 World Championships, closing his breakout season in a dynamic way.Young’s rise has been meteoric but methodical. A former NCAA champion from Northern Arizona University, he first stunned the sport in 2024 by debuting at 26:52.72 for 10,000 meters–an NCAA and American collegiate record–then qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he finished 12th. Turning pro with Adidas that summer, he entered 2025 with sharper focus and the freedom to train through longer, uninterrupted blocks under coach Mike Smith in Flagstaff, Arizona.Now a national champion, world finalist, and record holder, Young owns personal bests of 12:45.27 (5,000m), 26:52.72 (10,000m), and 7:37.73 (3,000m). His performances are redefining what’s possible for American distance runners, and he’s doing it with trademark composure and humility.Tap into the Nico Young Special.  If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I’ll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

Michael Maiorano stormed through his first cross-country season at Utah State with fearless racing and an appetite for altitude.After debuting at the Utah State Alumni Challenge in August, he clocked 23:58 for 8,000m at the Paul Short Run and followed with a gritty Nuttycombe finish.Maiorano’s route to this moment has been anything but linear. A star at South Medford High School (OR), he rose to national attention after placing 12th at Eastbay Nationals (2021) and taking runner-up at the Brooks PR 2-mile (8:52.85) in 2022. That same year he represented Team USA at the World Mountain & Trail Running Championships, finishing 7th; he repeated as top American the next season in Austria. He began college at Gonzaga, transferred to Salt Lake CC to reset his trajectory, and promptly won the 2025 NJCAA 3,000m steeplechase title in 8:56.70, earning his return to Division I with Utah State.With personal bests of 8:36 (3,000m indoor), 8:56 (steeple), and 23:58 (8,000m XC), Maiorano blends mountain grit, track speed, and mental composure rarely seen at the collegiate level. Michael has been down an unorthodox path–from Medford to mountain worlds, from JUCO champion to Aggie front-runner–and how his mindset of patience, faith, and self-belief fuels a breakout 2025 cross-country campaign that’s just getting started.Tap into the Michael Maiorano Special.  If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I’ll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

From viral stunts to record-setting runs, Isaiah Photo went from YouTube daredevil to running six marathons on six continents in six days self aided. He built his audience on larger-than-life experiments before turning that creative drive toward running. What started as wild one-off ideas—like marathons in Crocs, flip-flops, and spray-on shoes—evolved into a genuine endurance journey.Since 2023, Isaiah has transformed from content daredevil to dedicated runner, logging massive months of mileage while inspiring millions to lace up alongside him.His running résumé reads like a creator’s ultramarathon: a 100K finish in April 2024; his first 100-mile ultra at the Bighorn 100 in June of 2024; another 100-miler in 2025 (Crazy Mountain 100); and the audacious “6 marathons on 6 continents in 6 days” project—a self-aided, record-setting feat that made him the fastest human to complete it, finishing in 6 days, 3 hours, and 8 minutes.After suffering a meniscus tear following his 100-miler, Isaiah’s comeback videos chronicled his recovery and renewed passion for the marathon. Now, he stands at the crossroads of content and sport, redefining what it means to be a runner in the age of creators.We’re exploring how he built a 10-million-strong movement, why he loves the marathon, and what it takes to keep running toward the next crazy goal.Tap into the Isaiah Photo Special.  If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I’ll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

Conner and Kylie Mantz are redefining what it means to chase big dreams as a team.They’re two runners with one purpose–moving stride for stride through life.Conner Mantz has become the new standard-bearer for American marathoning. After winning the 2024 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials and placing 8th at the Paris Olympics (2:08:12), he stunned the running world in 2025–running 2:05:08 for 4th place at Boston, winning the Beach to Beacon 10K in a course record time of 27:26, and setting the American marathon record of 2:04:43 at the Chicago Marathon. His career arc, which was shaped by BYU coach Ed Eyestone’s patient approach, reflects eight years of steady growth from NCAA champion to global contender.Kylie Mantz, meanwhile, has forged her own remarkable path. A latecomer to competitive running, she joined BYU’s women’s distance program in 2025 and quickly ran 34:57 for 10,000m and 16:49 for 5000m–astonishing progress for someone who didn’t run track in high school. Her joy-driven approach, grounded in curiosity and consistency, mirrors Cennor’s faith in long-term development.Their parallel journeys (Conner’s disciplined pursuit of podiums and records; Kylie’s joyful rise into Division I competition) intersect in a shared belief that running is both art and anchor. Together, Conner and Kylie Mantz are proving that love, faith, and discipline can fuel world-class performance.Tap into the Conner and Kylie Mantz Special.  If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I’ll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

Haftu Knight is proving that professionalism in running isn't limited to sponsorship: it's a mindset.His rise from shepherd in Ethiopia to one of the most exciting marathoners training under Jeff Cunningham with the Bat City Track Club is the perfect example of this.Now based in Austin, Knight is part of a blue-collar group grinding through 100-mile weeks, blending raw talent with Cunningham's precision system of controlled intensity and relentless rhythm work. It's an environment built on belief, and Knight has bought in completely.A former University of Texas standout, Knight was the 2022 Big 12 10,000m champion and NCAA Cross Country All-American, setting a school record of 13:32 for 5,000 m and ranking #2 in the 10,000m (28:30). After college he jumped straight into the marathon, running 2:17:22 in his debut at Indianapolis in November 2024. Five months later, he shocked the road scene with a 2:09:38 at the McKirdy Micro Marathon in March 2025, followed by a 1:02:47 half in Chicago and a 2:11:39 at his first World Major that October.Knight's day-to-day reflects Cunningham's mantra: manage everything well. Morning doubles, long runs in the Texas heat, and recovery shifts at Fleet Feet define the routine of a man chasing the next level. From a boy tending goats in Chelekot to a man redefining Texas distance running, Haftu Knight's story is one of grit, gratitude, and pure momentum. His next marathon block with Bat City isn't just training, it's the continuation of one of 2025's most inspiring breakthroughs.Tap into the Haftu Knight Special.  If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word "PODCAST" below and I'll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

Two-time Olympian Elise Cranny has long been a model of precision, patience, and perseverance in American distance running. A Stanford All-American turned professional with Nike, Cranny owns a résumé that blends range and record-setting speed, most notably the American records for both the indoor 5,000m (14:33.17) and outdoor 3,000m (8:25.10). Now 29 and training under NAU coach Jarred Cornfield, with an altitude base in Flagstaff, she continues to redefine consistency at the highest level.After U.S. titles in 2021, 2022, and a 10,000/5,000 double in 2023, Cranny entered 2025 seeking balance: new coach, new league (Grand Slam Track), and renewed joy in the grind. That recalibration paid off this summer at USATF Outdoors in Eugene, where she claimed silver medals in both the 10,000 m (31:44.24) and 5,000 m (15:14.26). The double podium secured her spot on the U.S. team for the World Championships in Tokyo.In Tokyo, Cranny finished 12th in the 10,000 m final and contested the 5,000m heats, wrapping a long season that tested both resilience and recovery. Whether lowering records, mentoring young athletes through Voice in Sport, or pioneering a new professional model in Grand Slam Track, Cranny remains one of the sport's clearest voices on fueling, self-trust, and sustainable success.Tap into the Elise Cranny Special.  If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word "PODCAST" below and I'll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

Yaseen Abdalla’s story is one of adaptation and ambition.He’s a runner who has thrived across programs, distances, and continents, representing Sudan on the international stage while redefining what a new-generation distance athlete can be.At the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo, Abdalla placed 21st in the marathon (2:13:32), continuing a remarkable ascent that began a year after his Olympic debut in Paris, where he set a Sudanese national record of 2:11:41.Known for his blend of speed and endurance, Abdalla’s range is staggering. His personal records include a 3:55.31 mile in 2025, 7:34.17 in the 3,000m in 2024, 13:09.99 in the 5,000m in 2025, and that 2:11:41 marathon.Those numbers speak to a rare physiology: miler-level leg speed married to marathon efficiency.His rise has been anything but conventional. From Lanham, Maryland and growing up in Texas, Abdalla ran collegiately for Texas, where he anchored the Longhorns’ 2022 NCAA champion distance medley relay, before transferring to Tennessee and later Arkansas, where he finished fourth at the 2024 NCAA Cross Country Championships. That same winter, he set Sudanese indoor records at 3,000m and 5,000m at the Boston University meets.Competing internationally for Sudan and a Bandit Running–supported athlete, Abdalla has his sights set on breaking the 2:10 barrier. His current training maintains track sharpness (strides/speed) alongside marathon preparation.In today's conversation, Tap into the Yaseen Abdalla Special.  If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I’ll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

He's one of the NCAA's brightest young stars, and his recent sophomore season proved why.Kole Mathison, the 2022 Champs Sports Cross Country national champion, and now a rising junior steeplechaser for the University of Colorado, joins the show fresh off a breakout year on the track and a strong start to the 2025 cross country season. Just weeks ago, Mathison placed 10th at the Nuttycombe Invitational, helping the Buffs to a runner-up team finish; another sign that Colorado's storied distance tradition is alive and well.But the journey from Carmel, Indiana to Boulder wasn't linear. After winning a national title in high school and representing Team USA at the 2023 World U20 Cross Country Championships, Mathison faced an injury during his freshman campaign.What followed was a lesson in patience and consistency, culminating in an 8:32 steeplechase personal best and NCAA qualification in 2025, plus impressive indoor marks of 7:52 (in the 3,000m) and 13:42 (in the 5,000m) on the fast Boston University track.From national champion to NCAA contender, Kole's trajectory is proof that patience, belief, and relentless work still define greatness in collegiate running.Tap into the Kole Mathison Special.  If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word "PODCAST" below and I'll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

In 2025, Herriman High’s Jackson Spencer became the name every prep distance fan had to know.The Utah standout, who is headed to BYU next year, opened his season with a victory at the Simplot Games 3200m (8:56.03), then surged into spring with a breakthrough 8:51.26 at the Arcadia Invitational. His momentum carried into June, where he unleashed a 4:02.56 mile and 3:46.22 1500m at the HOKA Festival of Miles, performances that placed him among the fastest prep milers in the country. Just weeks later, he anchored Herriman High’s 4x800-meter relay to a national high school record of 7:26.12 at New Balance Nationals Outdoor.By October, Spencer had proven his range extended well beyond the track. At the ASICS Clovis Invitational, he shattered the storied Woodward Park course record with a 14:16.9. Balancing excellence with humility, the 2025 Gatorade Utah Boys Track & Field Player of the Year embodies both athletic drive and academic focus. His progression—from indoor champion to outdoor record-setter to cross country course dominator—reflects rare versatility and discipline.As he looks beyond Herriman, Spencer’s times and trajectory point toward a seamless leap to the collegiate ranks. Whether chasing sub-four on the track or new records on the roads, his next chapter promises to include lots of record-chasing performances. Tap into the Jackson Spencer Special.  If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I’ll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

Final Surge: https://www.finalsurge.com (RUNNINGEFFECT20) He built a dynasty in Flagstaff, and now, Mike Smith is bringing that same fire to Nike’s Swoosh Track Club.After nearly a decade at the helm of Northern Arizona University, where he built a dynasty that captured five NCAA men’s cross country titles and earned him 41 Big Sky Coach of the Year honors, Smith made headlines in 2025 when he left collegiate coaching to join Nike’s professional network. From his Flagstaff base, he’s now guiding elite athletes through the same philosophy that made NAU unstoppable: a culture of belonging, relentless consistency, and daily excellence.A Georgetown University All-American and 2007 U.S. Olympic Trials marathon qualifier, Smith’s journey from athlete to coach has always revolved around purpose over prestige. He founded Team Run Flagstaff, studied under the legendary Dr. Jack Daniels, and molded athletes like Nico Young and Luis Grijalva into global talents. Now, with the Swoosh Track Club, Smith’s vision extends beyond collegiate borders: building systems that connect performance, identity, and community on a global stage. He currently coaches talents of Galen Rupp all the way down to Donvoan Brazier and many inbetween.From the mountains of Flagstaff to the global stage, Mike Smith continues to redefine what it means to lead, reminding us that true excellence starts with purpose, not medals.Tap into the Coach Mike Smith Special.  If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I’ll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W  N O T E SFinal Surge: https://www.finalsurge.com (RUNNINGEFFECT20)  -The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

Sacrifice, grit, burnout, and the fight to be great: this month’s Rundown Recap dives into four stories that every driven person needs to hear.The fellas kick things off with “Sacrifice Isn’t Sustainable,” a raw look at how constantly grinding and giving everything can start to take more than it gives. What happens when the thing you love starts burning you out?Then, in “The Art of Championship Racing,” they unpack what separates the good from the great when everything’s on the line; the mindset, the confidence, and the quiet control it takes to rise in the biggest moments.Next up is “Fuel for the Work Required,” a reminder that there’s no secret sauce, just consistency, simplicity, and showing up when no one’s watching. And finally, “Resist the Pull of Mediocrity” challenges all of us to fight against comfort, to refuse to settle for “good enough,” and to keep pushing toward what we’re truly capable of.It’s one of those conversations that goes way beyond running,it’s about mindset, ambition, and how to build a life around doing hard things well. Tune in, this month’s edition might be the reset you didn’t know you needed.Tap into the Rundown Recap Special.  If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I’ll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend!S H O W   N O T E S-The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz