Experience the passion and resilience of distance running through the compelling story of Jillian Roth Reyna, a former University of Akron NCAA Division 1 cross country and track athlete. Jill shares her journey from the intense world of collegiate athletics to discovering new avenues of distance running and coaching.

Uncover the secrets to optimizing running performance and managing "run anxiety" through strategic coaching and personalized nutrition. Jillian, the founder of Rise and Rain Training and Nutrition, shares key insights on heart rate monitoring, threshold training, and the vital role of strength training in a runner's routine.

Ever wondered how a simple driver's license photo could ignite a life-altering journey? In this episode of Hobby Jogger, we chat with Quin Jenson, a digital creator, runner, and proud girl dad, who recounts his athletic evolution from high school football and track in Texas to becoming a dedicated runner.

Quin opens up about the pivotal moment that spurred his fitness transformation, starting with neighborhood strolls and evolving into a passion for longer distance. We discuss the universal allure of running, its simplicity, and the uniqueness of the sport being accessible for so many.

This week on the Hobby Jogger, we welcome Jen Boerwinkle, a run ambassador for the Cleveland Marathon and a dedicated coach for Rise and Reign. Jen shares her awe-inspiring journey of losing 125 pounds since January 2019 and how her passion for running has transformed her life. We discuss both the excitement and nerves of her upcoming first trail race and intro to ultra running.

As the episode winds down, we delve into Jen's transition from runner to coach specializing in bariatric athletes. She opens up about the trials and triumphs of coaching others who have undergone significant weight loss, sharing practical advice on everything from overcoming gym intimidation to building stronger legs to prevent injuries. The importance of balancing structured training with the joy of running is underscored, offering listeners tips on how to keep the sport fun and social.

Join us on the Hobby Jogger as we welcome Kim Roy as co-host, who just faced the rugged beauty of the Bloodroot Ultra in Vermont. But that's not all! We're joined by guest Marianna Grudziak, a Pennsylvania native gearing up for the prestigious Western States 100-mile ultra endurance race in California.

Hear about her strategic training runs and how she's adapted her routine and gear to match the trails of Western States. Marianna's story is packed with insights and inspiration, perfect for anyone looking to understand the world of ultra-running. Tune in for an episode filled with camaraderie, practical tips, and the relentless spirit of trail runners.

What drives a trail runner to conquer some of the most challenging terrains in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia? Join us as Brynn Cunningham, a celebrated trail runner with multiple fastest known times (FKTs) under her belt, reveals her journey from sprinter to long-distance ultra runner. With two victories at the Laurel Highlands 50K and an unrivaled love for the outdoors, Brynn shares her strategies for achieving and verifying FKTs, her encounters with the rugged landscapes of Ohiopyle, and her future aspirations, including the fabled "gate to eight" route on the Laurel Highlands trail.

Brynn's commitment extends beyond personal achievements—it's about giving back to the community and preserving the environment. She shares how she balances her active life with family and work. Her family's involvement in trail maintenance and river clean-ups underscores their dedication to environmental stewardship.

Ever wondered if there's a magical ingredient to boost your running? Amy joins us to dissect the complex world of nutritional supplements in sport. But it's not all about the powders and pills; we stress the importance of whole food protein sources and share personal stories on how we navigate the convenience versus quality divide in our own athletic diets.

This episode isn't just about what goes into your body, but how it affects your performance and psyche. From training your gut to handle different fuels to selecting the right snacks for the long haul, Amy shares her insights and personal experiences. This conversation is a must-listen for runners at any level looking to elevate their performance with a tailored, informed approach to nutrition and training.

Have you ever stood at the starting line of a goal so intimidating, it seemed to stretch out like an endless trail before you? That's where we find ultra-runner Caleb Bowen, our guest this week, as he shares his anticipation for the Western States Endurance Run, balancing the rigorous demands of his training with a full-time coaching career. Together with Ohio's trail master Jeremy Pope, we journey through the highs and lows of ultra-running, from the tactical to the personal.

As the conversation hits its stride, we delve into the nitty-gritty of race strategies and mental toughness needed to face Western States. From managing scorching heat to the nuances of nutrition, our runners open up about the meticulous preparation behind their hundred-mile pursuits. Whether you're a seasoned ultra-runner or someone who's curious about the world of trail races, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to not just run, but excel, in the face of a daunting challenge.

Join us as we sit down with ultrarunning champion Jim Walmsley to recount his breathtaking victory in France's Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, his unique wedding anniversary that would make any Star Wars fan green with envy, and the scoop on Jim's strategic race kit evolutions to tackle grueling ultra marathon distances.

Wil Walmsley, friend of the show and twin brother to Jim, joins the conversation as co-host to explore the synergies between ultra-running, ski mountaineering, and cycling. And, because no May the 4th celebration would be complete without settling galactic scores, Jim weighs in on the epic Star Wars debate—did Han shoot first?