

For The Long Run: Exploring the Why Behind Running
Jonathan Levitt
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.
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

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.

Dec 2, 2022 • 1h 14min
242. Bryan Kent and Steve Laski: Shaking Up Physical + Mental Healthcare
Bryan is a business owner having fun helping patients and prioritizing ethical practices. He is also a dog parent and beer lover!
Steve is also passionate about helping people and shaking up the healthcare model.
In this episode we talk about:
-starting your own business
-being the change you want to see
-navigating fears and uncertainty
-normalizing therapy and talking about mental health
-it’s more than just running
-disabilities and appreciating movement
-growth and self-discovery
Tune into episode 163 for Bryan’s first appearance on For The Long Run.
Follow Bryan and Steve on Instagram @bryankent @stevelaski and their company Forward Spine & Sport @forwardspineandsport 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. When gifting for the runners in your life or for yourself this season, versatility and durability are paramount and Tracksmith ticks all the boxes! As the weather changes, 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.
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 15% off your entire order with the code FTLR. Your face will thank you!

Nov 25, 2022 • 54min
241. Colleen Clarke: “How You Do One Thing, Is How You Do Everything”
Colleen is a solar advocate and outdoor wanderer.
In this episode we talk about:
-getting into hiking 14ers
-goal setting and personal growth
-exposure therapy for hard things
-being fully present with yourself and nature
-understanding solar power
Follow Colleen on Instagram @colleenclarkecoaching and For The Long Run @forthelrpod
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/forthelongrun/support
Tracksmith
Thank you to Tracksmith for supporting For The Long Run and their continued support of not just this podcast, but the running community in general.
Stock up on training essentials and gifts for the runners you love with Tracksmith. Visit Tracksmith.com/ftlr and use code GRAVY20 for 20% off apparel and accessories from Thursday, 11/24, to Monday, 11/28.
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, 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.
This Black Friday, use code FTLR for 20% off your first purchase of any products at previnex.com.
Eastern Standard Provisions
Eastern Standard Provisions is an artisanal food company making incredible all natural soft pretzels, Belgian waffles, gourmet sauces, and much much more. Step up your snack game this holiday season and consider sharing a box or two with the runners in your life. Get 50% off holiday boxes from now until November 28th when you click this link.

Nov 18, 2022 • 43min
240. Chelsea Sodaro: Mom Strength Is Real
Chelsea is uniquely herself. She is a professional triathlete, wife and mom, guided by her two north stars: triathlon and family.
In this episode we talk about:
-staying grounded in the process even after achieving big goals, like winning the Ironman World Championships
-the massive team effort behind individual success
-balancing outcome and process goals
-consistency does not mean perfection
-reaching your peak post motherhood
-intentional gratitude
-life is more than athletics: win or lose, the world goes on
-dealing with mom guilt
Chelsea answered 2 listener questions:
How do you balance mom guilt with wanting to pursue your passions?
What is your advice to a working mom/ someone with a full-time job also looking to train and race at a high level?
Follow Chelsea on Instagram @chelseasodaro and For The Long Run @forthelrpod
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/forthelongrun/support
Tracksmith
Thank you to Tracksmith for sponsoring this episode.
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, 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.
Eastern Standard Provisions
Eastern Standard Provisions is an artisanal food company making incredible all natural soft pretzels, Belgian waffles, gourmet sauces, and much much more. Step up your snack game this holiday season and consider sharing a box or two with the runners in your life. Get 50% off holiday boxes from now until November 28th when you click this link: https://esprovisions.com/collections/holiday-gift-boxes?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=creator&utm_campaign=jwlevitt