Before Breakfast Fitting big goals in a busy life, with Nicholas Thompson
11 snips
Dec 3, 2025 
Nicholas Thompson, Journalist and CEO of The Atlantic, shares his journey from running enthusiast to ultramarathoner. He discusses how he juggles intense training around a busy work schedule, even using running as a mode of transport in New York. Nicholas reveals his secret to time management, emphasizing focused work, prioritization, and overcoming guilt about family time. He reflects on the mental clarity running brings and highlights the influence of his father on his passion. His insights on productivity could help anyone navigate a hectic life!
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Late-Career Running Breakthroughs
- Thompson ran faster in his 40s than in his 30s, setting age-group records for ultradistance events.
- He credits focused training squeezed into a busy life for those later-life improvements.
Running As A Commute And Errand
- Nicholas Thompson often runs to and from work, carrying items like books in a backpack to combine errands with training.
- He squeezed seven miles into a busy day by changing, showering quickly, and running between events.
Make Exercise Functional
- Use running as an efficient mode of transportation to combine exercise with commuting.
- Choose routes and shoes that balance speed, comfort, and presentability for meetings.
