Marine Corps Marathon
Racing Reflection

Marine Corps Marathon: Perspective Gained Amid Failure

Last Sunday, I ran the 2023 Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, DC — my fifth marathon and first with a sub-three-hour goal. The stage was set for a fairytale ending. Yet, despite the stars aligning, I fell like a crashing meteor. So, what went wrong? Well, I’m not one to make excuses, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the role of one very important element. Here’s what happened…

running with music
Opinion Training

The Benefits of Running with Music, Podcasts, and Silence

The only time I run without listening to music or podcasts is when I run with someone. As much as I love running, I still need a good podcast episode to keep me motivated for the long haul on those long runs. Or a “beast mode” playlist to help me tame that “beast” of a speed workout. There are many days when I’m not motivated to run. But, knowing I can take my mind off the task of running and get lost in a good discussion or a memorable verse with an up-tempo beat to help pass the miles is all I need to pass through my front door.

running routes and running mindset
Opinion Training

How Running Routes Can Impact Your Running Mindset

Running is one of the greatest ways to discover new roads, neighborhoods, trails, the best views, and any other part of the setting we call home. But, often times, we don’t have to stray from our beaten path to find a new perspective. Running makes us consider our surroundings in new ways. The same scenes we pass every day by car feel completely different on foot. So, how do running routes impact our running mindset?