He Ran Across America — On Plants

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Nov 18, 2019

In this engaging conversation, Robbie Balenger shares his incredible journey as an ultramarathon runner who completed a 3,200-mile trek across America in just 75 days, advocating for a plant-based diet. He discusses the physical and mental challenges of running every day for over 40 miles, the unexpected community connections formed along the way, and how this experience transformed his view on lifestyle choices. Robbie also emphasizes the impact of a plant-based diet on athletic performance and personal well-being while sharing stories of support from friends and fans.

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ANECDOTE

Existential Crisis and Running

Robbie Ballenger quit his restaurant job after his aunt questioned his impact.
This led to an existential crisis and a journey of self-discovery through running.

ANECDOTE

Catalyst for Change

Robbie's inspiration came after the 2016 election, feeling lost and at odds with loved ones.
His aunt's question, "What are you doing so great that my opinion matters so much?", sparked a change.

ANECDOTE

From Restaurants to Environmentalism

Robbie's aunt's question led him to leave his restaurant career and help hurricane victims.
Witnessing nature's power and people's resilience inspired him towards environmentalism.

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Imagine running an ultramarathon. It’s a huge undertaking for anyone. And a bucket list dream for many.

Now imagine running an ultramarathon every day. A minimum of 40 miles, 75 days in a row. Starting in Los Angeles. Finishing in New York. A 3,200 mile transcontinental run.

This is the story of Robbie Balenger.

Just 6 years ago, Robbie laced up his first pair of running shoes to alleviate the stress he was experiencing managing a restaurant. A small act, that first run set in motion a chain of events that led to a passion for running long distances, followed by a purpose-driven mission promote a message — the power of a plant-based diet to fuel athletic performance. Prevent and reverse certain lifestyle maladies. Ameliorate suffering. And redress climate change.

What Robbie didn't expect? The many extraordinary ways running creates community. Unites people across the economic divide. And bridges the political differences that drive us apart.

I was unfamiliar with Robbie until an e-mail hit my inbox courtesy of my friend and former podcast guest, Olympic cyclist Dotsie Bausch (RRP 355). Her non-profit Switch4Good was sponsoring Robbie's attempt to cross the United States by foot. Would I be interested in helping to support their efforts? I jumped at the opportunity.

On March 16, I showed up at dawn in Huntington Beach to meet Robbie for the first time and help kick off his momentous attempt.

Running the first several miles alongside Robbie and a small crew of supporters, I immediately took to his earnest yet humble disposition. His passion for promoting the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle. And his determination to reach New York a mere 75 days later.

We struck up a friendship that day. I kept keen tabs on his progress over the following months. And made him a promise:

Finish the run and you earn a seat at the podcast table.

All heart, he indeed finished it. Today I honor that promise. And it’s a great story, well told.

You can watch it all go down on YouTube.

I sincerely hope you enjoy the exchange as much as I relished having it.

Peace + Plants,

Rich