
For The Long Run: Exploring the Why Behind Running
Exploring the why behind what keeps runners running long, strong, and motivated. Running is a sport that has the power to unite us all and we are here to share conversations about how running has shaped the lives of people within our community, as well as how running has created community in itself.
From pro runners and Olympians to ultramarathoners running their first big race to business owners who use running to improve their entrepreneurial journey, we believe in creating community and expanding the running world for all.
Hosted by running enthusiast, Jonathan Levitt.
Latest episodes

Feb 10, 2023 • 1h 52min
252. Finn Melanson: For The Very Long Run + Podcasting
Finn is the host of the Singletrack Podcast and active participant of the trail and ultra running community. He is interested in elite trail and ultra running, as well as the economics and business side of the sport.
In this episode of the podcast we talk about:
-how running improves your day and your life
-the ins and outs of podcasting
-the value of conversations
-evolving content creation and sponsorships
-supporting and sustaining podcasts
Turn to For The Long Run episode 245 to hear Finn interview me on the Singletrack Podcast.
Check out the Singletrack podcast on Instagram @runsingletrack
Follow Finn on Instagram @wasatchfinn and For The Long Run @forthelrpod
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/forthelongrun/support
Lauren Daniels
Thank you to Lauren Daniels for supporting the podcast. Lauren is a realtor helping buyers and sellers in the Greater Denver-Boulder area. With incredible attention to detail, Lauren helped me find the perfect home right near the trails, and made the whole home buying process as smooth and stress-free as possible. So, if you’re even considering buying a home in this area, I highly recommend working with Lauren. You can reach her at ldaniels@milehimodern.com, and let her know we sent you. Follow Lauren on Instagram @lauren.in.colorado
BolderBoulder
Held in Boulder every Memorial Day, the BolderBoulder 10K is one of the most fun races out there. In order to get even more psyched for this upcoming race, we are hosting some 5Ks here in Boulder, for folks to grab a time to get into a preferred wave. Come out and join us in Boulder for a fun community 5K to come together and get pumped for the BolderBoulder extravaganza. Everyone is welcome!
Join us on Saturday, February 25th at the Left Hand Trailhead at 9 am to get your time trial in. We’ll be giving away some gear from brand partners as well, so you’re not going to want to miss it. Sign up here!
BetterHelp
This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp.
Here at the For The Long Run Podcast, you know we love to talk about the BIGGER stuff, the DEEPER stuff, and get down to the nitty-gritty of what makes life interesting and beautiful. And while a lot of what we talk about on this show is about our physical capabilities, a big part of what we believe in here at the podcast is doing the internal work. And that’s why we’re proudly sponsored by BetterHelp, because, like them, we believe therapy is for everyone. With BetterHelp, you can tap into a network of over 25,000 licensed and experienced therapists who can help you with a wide range of issues.
If you’re ready to do the internal work, go to betterhelp.com/FTLR.

Feb 3, 2023 • 53min
251. Sara Dimmick: “Train To Transform”
Sara is the founder and co-owner of a New York City based boutique fitness studio, Physical Equilibrium. She has been a personal trainer for 20 years, and is passionate about longevity and injury rehabilitation through sports, nutrition, and all other aspects of wellness.
In this episode we talk about:
-networking and self-promotion being self-employed
-from dancing to endurance sports
-warm ups, cool downs, and strength training
-training in New York City
-movement for older or injured athletes
Follow Sara on Instagram @saradimmick her business Physical Equilibrium @physeq and For The Long Run @forthelrpod
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/forthelongrun/support
Lauren Daniels
Thank you to Lauren Daniels for supporting the podcast. Lauren is a realtor helping buyers and sellers in the Greater Denver-Boulder area. With incredible attention to detail, Lauren helped me find the perfect home right near the trails, and made the whole home buying process as smooth and stress-free as possible. So, if you’re even considering buying a home in this area, I highly recommend working with Lauren. You can reach her at ldaniels@milehimodern.com, and let her know we sent you. Follow Lauren on Instagram @lauren.in.colorado
Goodr
This episode is also brought to you by Goodr. Goodr have the slickest shades around, for only $25 and $35. They don't slip or bounce, and stay on my face way better than more expensive sunglasses.
If you'd like to support me and the show, treat yourself to a pair (or two) and head over to Goodr and get free shipping with the code FTLR. Your face will thank you!
BetterHelp
This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp.
Here at the For The Long Run Podcast, you know we love to talk about the BIGGER stuff, the DEEPER stuff, and get down to the nitty-gritty of what makes life interesting and beautiful. And while a lot of what we talk about on this show is about our physical capabilities, a big part of what we believe in here at the podcast is doing the internal work. And that’s why we’re proudly sponsored by BetterHelp, because, like them, we believe therapy is for everyone. With BetterHelp, you can tap into a network of over 25,000 licensed and experienced therapists who can help you with a wide range of issues.
If you’re ready to do the internal work, go to betterhelp.com/FTLR.

Jan 27, 2023 • 58min
250. Jad Daley: The Marathon Owes You Nothing
Jad lives his life fuelled by passion and ADHD, working in the climate change and conservation space. He is a competitive endurance athlete of 30+ years committed to mastering his mind and body through running.
In this episode we talk about:
-disappointing races after great preparation
-the marathon owes you nothing
-self sabotage and ignoring warning signs
-it’s okay to care, but running isn’t everything
-the mental side of bad races, suffering, and doing hard things
-post race evaluations and recovery
Follow Jad on Instagram @jaddaley3 and For The Long Run @forthelrpod
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/forthelongrun/support
Microcosm Coaching
This show is proudly sponsored by Microcosm Coaching. What I love about their style is that it’s coaching the human who runs, not the runner who “humans.” I’ve done a handful of group runs with their crew, and am good friends with several of their coaches and dietitians.
Jumpstart your running goals in 2023 with Microcosm Coaching. Microcosm coaching offers individualized training plans and accountability through daily feedback. Your Microcosm coach will hold you accountable to your running potential. They support and empower athletes of all abilities and backgrounds.
Find out more at https://www.microcosm-coaching.com/
Lauren Daniels
Thank you to Lauren Daniels for supporting the podcast. Lauren is a realtor helping buyers and sellers in the Greater Denver-Boulder area. With incredible attention to detail, Lauren helped me find the perfect home right near the trails, and made the whole home buying process as smooth and stress-free as possible. So, if you’re even considering buying a home in this area, I highly recommend working with Lauren. You can reach her at ldaniels@milehimodern.com, and let her know we sent you. Follow Lauren on Instagram @lauren.in.colorado
BetterHelp
This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp.
Here at the For The Long Run Podcast, you know we love to talk about the BIGGER stuff, the DEEPER stuff, and get down to the nitty-gritty of what makes life interesting and beautiful. And while a lot of what we talk about on this show is about our physical capabilities, a big part of what we believe in here at the podcast is doing the internal work. And that’s why we’re proudly sponsored by BetterHelp, because, like them, we believe therapy is for everyone. With BetterHelp, you can tap into a network of over 25,000 licensed and experienced therapists who can help you with a wide range of issues.
If you’re ready to do the internal work, go to betterhelp.com/FTLR.

Jan 20, 2023 • 52min
249. India Cook: Marathoners Come In All Paces, Races + Sizes
India is a runner, black woman, and daughter of Beyoncé. She identifies as an advocate for all races, paces, and sizes of athletes, a podcast host, YouTuber, race announcer, running coach and marathoner.
In this episode we talk about:
-the power of community and positive peer pressure
-back of the pack running and New York City marathon final finishers
-more than finish times and paces
-finding your why
-imposter syndrome as a running influencer
-the Run Duo Podcast with India Cook and Tommy Mitchell
-owning your running story
Check out the Run Duo Podcast on all platforms and find India on YouTube at Miles from India
Follow India on Instagram @i_of_endigo_runs and her podcast @therunduo and For The Long Run @forthelrpod
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/forthelongrun/support
Microcosm Coaching
This show is proudly sponsored by Microcosm Coaching. What I love about their style is that it’s coaching the human who runs, not the runner who “humans.” I’ve done a handful of group runs with their crew, and am good friends with several of their coaches and dietitians.
Jumpstart your running goals in 2023 with Microcosm Coaching. Microcosm coaching offers individualized training plans and accountability through daily feedback. Your Microcosm coach will hold you accountable to your running potential. They support and empower athletes of all abilities and backgrounds.
Find out more at https://www.microcosm-coaching.com/
Previnex
This episode is also brought to you by Previnex. Previnex makes clinically effective supplements that promote longevity, performance, and every day health, and they donate vitamins to malnourished children with every customer order.
From firsthand experience, I can tell you that Previnex supplements are awesome and flat out work! I highly recommend you check out and try these products for yourself. One of the best parts is that if you don’t experience benefits on any product within 30 days, Previnex has a no questions asked 100% money back guarantee for a full refund. You have no risk and everything to gain here.
Use code FTLR for 15% off your first purchase of any products at previnex.com.
Lauren Daniels
Thank you to Lauren Daniels for supporting the podcast. Lauren is a realtor helping buyers and sellers in the Greater Denver-Boulder area. With incredible attention to detail, Lauren helped me find the perfect home right near the trails, and made the whole home buying process as smooth and stress-free as possible. So, if you’re even considering buying a home in this area, I highly recommend working with Lauren. You can reach her at ldaniels@milehimodern.com, and let her know we sent you. Follow Lauren on Instagram @lauren.in.colorado

Jan 13, 2023 • 53min
248. Katherine Short: In Love With The Training
Katherine is a Canadian trail runner living in Maui, Hawaii. She is a lifelong endurance athlete and former sports massage therapist passionate about tuning into the human body.
In this episode we talk about:
-trail running in Hawaii: different climates, terrains, volcanoes and more
-the benefits of training solo
-Katherine’s relationship with competition and training
-race selection
-balancing work and life demands with training
-saunas and heat training
Follow Katherine on Instagram @katherineshorttttt and For The Long Run @forthelrpod
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/forthelongrun/support
Microcosm Coaching
This show is proudly sponsored by Microcosm Coaching. What I love about their style is that it’s coaching the human who runs, not the runner who “humans.” I’ve done a handful of group runs with their crew, and am good friends with several of their coaches and dietitians.
Jumpstart your running goals in 2023 with Microcosm Coaching. Microcosm coaching offers individualized training plans and accountability through daily feedback. Your Microcosm coach will hold you accountable to your running potential. They support and empower athletes of all abilities and backgrounds.
Find out more at https://www.microcosm-coaching.com/
REVEL
This episode is brought to you by the REVEL Race Series. REVEL is an incredibly fast and remarkably beautiful series of full and half marathons that take place in the most scenic U.S. locations. All the races feature a fast downhill slope and spectacular scenery. Learn more and sign up for your next race at RunRevel
Lauren Daniels
Thank you to Lauren Daniels for supporting the podcast. Lauren is a realtor helping buyers and sellers in the Greater Denver-Boulder area. With incredible attention to detail, Lauren helped me find the perfect home right near the trails, and made the whole home buying process as smooth and stress-free as possible. So, if you’re even considering buying a home in this area, I highly recommend working with Lauren. You can reach her at ldaniels@milehimodern.com, and let her know we sent you. Follow Lauren on Instagram @lauren.in.colorado

Jan 6, 2023 • 51min
247. Andy Wacker: The Trail Team is Forming!
Andy is a pro trail runner who lives in Boulder, Colorado. He is a former middle school math teacher passionate about giving back to the world of trail running.
In this episode we talk about:
-shorter distance trail races being cool too!
-respecting the easy runs
-the Trail Team
-balancing both trail and road running
-the role of media and sponsorship in trail running
-finding fulfillment: intrinsic motivation above winning and money
Check out The Trail Team online at https://www.trail-team.com/
Follow Andy on Instagram @wackera and The Trail Team @the_trail_team and For The Long Run @forthelrpod
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/forthelongrun/support
Microcosm Coaching
This show is proudly sponsored by Microcosm Coaching. What I love about their style is that it’s coaching the human who runs, not the runner who “humans.” I’ve done a handful of group runs with their crew, and am good friends with several of their coaches and dietitians.
Jumpstart your running goals in 2023 with Microcosm Coaching. Microcosm coaching offers individualized training plans and accountability through daily feedback. Your Microcosm coach will hold you accountable to your running potential. They support and empower athletes of all abilities and backgrounds.
Find out more at https://www.microcosm-coaching.com/
Bandera
The team at For The Long Run is super proud to share that we will be sponsoring the live race coverage of the Bandera 100k, happening on Saturday January 7th. Tune in to see several prior guests racing 100k in the desert, and hear from Jonathan on the broadcast!
Learn more about the Bandera Endurance Trail Race at https://www.tejastrails.com/bandera
Goodr
This episode is also brought to you by Goodr. Goodr have the slickest shades around, for only $25 and $35. I’m excited to share that they’ve just released ski goggles too! These shades are not only the best looking frames on any snow-capped mountain, they’re also Goodr’s first official step into winter sports.
They don't slip, bounce or fog, and stay on my face way better than more expensive sunglasses.
If you'd like to support me and the show, treat yourself to a pair (or two) and head over to goodr.com/ftlr to get free shipping. Your face will thank you!

Dec 30, 2022 • 52min
246. Corey Nicholson: Consistency & Commitment in Endurance & Entrepreneurship
Corey is a full time businessman heavily involved in the world of fitness. He identifies as a hybrid athlete, balancing strength training and running.
In this episode we talk about:
-balancing passions and being a hybrid athlete
-the overlap between endurance and entrepreneurship
-being consistently good rather than occasionally great
-taking inspiration from others
-different types of “hard” and “challenging”: 5ks vs ultras
Tune into 49:16 to hear Jon Levitt answer a listener question: How do I train for a marathon?
Follow Corey on Instagram and Twitter @coreynceo and For The Long Run @forthelrpod
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/forthelongrun/support
Tracksmith
Thank you to Tracksmith for sponsoring this episode.
Tracksmith is an independent running brand inspired by a deep love of the sport. Their new Fall Collection just released and is now available. It features staples ready for all your training and racing needs. As the weather begins to change, versatile pieces are essential for handling whatever the season holds.
Visit Tracksmith to see some of my favorite pieces, and all orders with the code FTLR. It will offer free shipping and a 5% donation to Bigger Than The Trail https://www.bttt.run/ which supports mental health efforts via trail running.
Freedom Solar Power
This episode is brought to you by Freedom Solar, the company I am using to go solar on my house.
When I first started looking into solar, I thought it would be a clunky and expensive process.
Going solar isn’t as hard as you think it is, and Freedom Solar Power is a turnkey solution focused on educating the consumer and making sure they have all the information they need to make sure going solar is right for them, both financially and as a way to help the planet.
With no downpayment required, solar not only ads value to your home and is great for the environment, and might even allow you to save money from day one.
Freedom Solar operates in Texas, Colorado, Virginia, North Carolina and Florida, but there are plenty of other great options nationwide.
Previnex
This episode is also brought to you by Previnex. Previnex makes clinically effective supplements that promote longevity, performance, and every day health, and they donate vitamins to malnourished children with every customer order.
From firsthand experience, I can tell you that Previnex supplements are awesome and flat out work! I highly recommend you check out and try these products for yourself. One of the best parts is that if you don’t experience benefits on any product within 30 days, Previnex has a no questions asked 100% money back guarantee for a full refund. You have no risk and everything to gain here.
Use code FTLR for 15% off your first purchase of any products at previnex.com.

Dec 23, 2022 • 2h 30min
245. Singletrack Podcast Replay: For The Long Run Podcast, State of Running Content, Athlete-Sponsorship Landscape
This is a replay of a Singletrack Podcast episode released September 19, 2022, where I was interviewed. Singletrack is the podcast covering the professional trail and ultrarunning scene, hosted by Finn Melanson.
In this episode of the podcast we talk about:
-starting a podcast and having an audience
-the business side of content creation
-sponsorship and brand partnerships
-living out your passions and carving a niche
-supporting and sustaining athletes and content creators
Tune into 2:27:46 to hear Jon Levitt answer a listener question: what shoes should I wear?
Check out the Singletrack podcast on Instagram @runsingletrack
Follow Finn on Instagram @wasatchfinn and For The Long Run @forthelrpod
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/forthelongrun/support
Tracksmith
Thank you to Tracksmith for sponsoring this episode.
Tracksmith is an independent running brand inspired by a deep love of the sport. Their new Fall Collection just released and is now available. It features staples ready for all your training and racing needs. As the weather begins to change, versatile pieces are essential for handling whatever the season holds.
Visit Tracksmith to see some of my favorite pieces, and all orders with the code FTLR. It will offer free shipping and a 5% donation to Bigger Than The Trail https://www.bttt.run/ which supports mental health efforts via trail running.
Freedom Solar Power
This episode is brought to you by Freedom Solar, the company I am using to go solar on my house.
When I first started looking into solar, I thought it would be a clunky and expensive process.
Going solar isn’t as hard as you think it is, and Freedom Solar Power is a turnkey solution focused on educating the consumer and making sure they have all the information they need to make sure going solar is right for them, both financially and as a way to help the planet.
With no downpayment required, solar not only ads value to your home and is great for the environment, and might even allow you to save money from day one.
Freedom Solar operates in Texas, Colorado, Virginia, North Carolina and Florida, but there are plenty of other great options nationwide.
Previnex
This episode is also brought to you by Previnex. Previnex makes clinically effective supplements that promote longevity, performance, and every day health, and they donate vitamins to malnourished children with every customer order.
From firsthand experience, I can tell you that Previnex supplements are awesome and flat out work! I highly recommend you check out and try these products for yourself. One of the best parts is that if you don’t experience benefits on any product within 30 days, Previnex has a no questions asked 100% money back guarantee for a full refund. You have no risk and everything to gain here.
Use code FTLR for 15% off your first purchase of any products at previnex.com.

Dec 16, 2022 • 54min
244. Keely Henninger: Changing The Culture For Female Athletes
Keely is a professional trail runner living in Portland, Oregon. She is also a scientist interested in female athletes, fueling, body image and energy availability, with the hopes of becoming a physician one day.
In this episode we talk about:
-going all in on goals
-overcoming challenges with disappointing races, injuries, underfueling, overtraining, and running identity
-optimizing nutrition and training for performance
-changing the culture of women's sports
-Keely’s podcast “Trail Society” and using your platform for good
-integrity with sponsorship
Tune into 51:00 to hear Jon Levitt answer a listener question: How do I find motivation?
Follow Keely on Instagram @runwidkeel and For The Long Run @forthelrpod
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/forthelongrun/support
Tracksmith
Thank you to Tracksmith for sponsoring this episode.
Tracksmith is an independent running brand inspired by a deep love of the sport. Their new Fall Collection just released and is now available. It features staples ready for all your training and racing needs. As the weather begins to change, versatile pieces are essential for handling whatever the season holds.
Visit Tracksmith to see some of my favorite pieces, and all orders with the code FTLR. It will offer free shipping and a 5% donation to Bigger Than The Trail https://www.bttt.run/ which supports mental health efforts via trail running.
Freedom Solar Power
This episode is brought to you by Freedom Solar, the company I am using to go solar on my house.
When I first started looking into solar, I thought it would be a clunky and expensive process.
Going solar isn’t as hard as you think it is, and Freedom Solar Power is a turnkey solution focused on educating the consumer and making sure they have all the information they need to make sure going solar is right for them, both financially and as a way to help the planet.
With no downpayment required, solar not only ads value to your home and is great for the environment, and might even allow you to save money from day one.
Freedom Solar operates in Texas, Colorado, Virginia, North Carolina and Florida, but there are plenty of other great options nationwide.
Previnex
This episode is also brought to you by Previnex. Previnex makes clinically effective supplements that promote longevity, performance, and every day health, and they donate vitamins to malnourished children with every customer order.
From firsthand experience, I can tell you that Previnex supplements are awesome and flat out work! I highly recommend you check out and try these products for yourself. One of the best parts is that if you don’t experience benefits on any product within 30 days, Previnex has a no questions asked 100% money back guarantee for a full refund. You have no risk and everything to gain here.
Use code FTLR for 15% off your first purchase of any products at previnex.com.

Dec 9, 2022 • 52min
243. Canyon Woodward: Trailblazing On The Run And Beyond
Canyon is the youngest of 4, who grew up loving the outdoors and running cross country. He has become passionate about environmental politics and climate advocacy.
In this episode we talk about:
-taking action against climate change
-the intersection between running and environmentalism
-competing at Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB)
-using your platform for good
-individual actions to fuel systemic change
Tune into 49:00 to hear Jon Levitt answer a listener question: How do you step up in distance?
Follow Canyon on Instagram @canyonwoodward and For The Long Run @forthelrpod
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/forthelongrun/support
Tracksmith
Thank you to Tracksmith for sponsoring this episode.
Tracksmith is an independent running brand inspired by a deep love of the sport. Their new Fall Collection just released and is now available. It features staples ready for all your training and racing needs. As the weather begins to change, versatile pieces are essential for handling whatever the season holds.
Visit Tracksmith to see some of my favorite pieces, and all orders with the code FTLR. It will offer free shipping and a 5% donation to Bigger Than The Trail https://www.bttt.run/ which supports mental health efforts via trail running.
Freedom Solar Power
This episode is brought to you by Freedom Solar, the company I am using to go solar on my house.
When I first started looking into solar, I thought it would be a clunky and expensive process.
Going solar isn’t as hard as you think it is, and Freedom Solar Power is a turnkey solution focused on educating the consumer and making sure they have all the information they need to make sure going solar is right for them, both financially and as a way to help the planet.
With no downpayment required, solar not only ads value to your home and is great for the environment, and might even allow you to save money from day one.
Freedom Solar operates in Texas, Colorado, Virginia, North Carolina and Florida, but there are plenty of other great options nationwide.
Previnex
This episode is also brought to you by Previnex. Previnex makes clinically effective supplements that promote longevity, performance, and every day health, and they donate vitamins to malnourished children with every customer order.
From firsthand experience, I can tell you that Previnex supplements are awesome and flat out work! I highly recommend you check out and try these products for yourself. One of the best parts is that if you don’t experience benefits on any product within 30 days, Previnex has a no questions asked 100% money back guarantee for a full refund. You have no risk and everything to gain here.
Use code FTLR for 15% off your first purchase of any products at previnex.com.