I'll Have Another with Lindsey Hein Podcast

I’m so glad you’re here today for another episode in our coaching series, brought to you by V.O2. Today’s guest is James McKirdy, the founder of McKirdy Trained, one of the largest coaching businesses in the United States. James has built an incredible coaching collective made up of compassionate and knowledgeable coaches, each with years of experience working with athletes of all types and abilities.In this episode, we talk about a really exciting project James has been involved with—the McKirdy Micro Marathon. If you haven’t heard of it, this was a short-loop race held last October, designed to help fast runners run even faster. The event was a massive success and gained a lot of attention. One of James’s athletes, McKenna Myler, who placed seventh at the Olympic Trials, actually secured her trials qualifier there. Callie Thackery also ran a personal best of 2:21. It was an exciting and innovative event that really made waves in the running community.James also works with incredible athletes like Tebello Ramakongana, who placed seventh at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Tebello’s marathon personal best is 2:07, and he has a half marathon PR of 1:00:17—truly impressive times. James shares a bit about working with athletes like Tebello and how they’ve shaped their journeys toward success.One of the things we dive into is James’s work with athletes who come to Flagstaff to train and his professional program that they’ve developed there. The Flagstaff environment is known for its high-altitude training, and James’s program has helped many athletes reach their potential.You can learn more about James’s coaching at mckirdytrained.com, and if you’re looking for coaching support, they offer a wealth of expertise to athletes of all levels.I hope you enjoy this conversation with James McKirdy as much as I did! It’s always a pleasure to chat with someone who’s so passionate about coaching and supporting athletes at every stage of their journey. Enjoy the episode!What we talked about:5:00- Growing his coaching business9:35- What makes a good coach14:00- Fun coaching questions18:00- His own running injuries26:00- Developing his professional training group39:00- His coaching clientelle43:30- The Olympics Trials marathon standard52:00- The micromarathon that James and Heather hosted1:10:00- End of podcast questionsShow notes:mckirdytrained.comMedia recommendations:The Bomber MafiaCobra KaiThe First ConspiracyKristin Hannah booksConnect with Lindsey: Lindsey on InstagramLindsey on TwitterSupport our sponsors:Fringe HealsUse the code “Hein25” for 25% off your orderV.O2Go to vdoto2.com and use the code “CoachLindsey” for 20% off your subscriptionListen to my episode with the founder of V.O2 hereLagoonUse the code “Lindsey” for 15% off your order

Roberta Groner has accomplished so much since her last appearance on the podcast, and I can’t wait to dive into her journey. Most recently, Roberta ran the Valencia Marathon, where she came within just 21 seconds of her personal best, running a 2:29. This was a huge day for Roberta, especially considering her PR is from 2019 in Rotterdam.Back in 2017, 2018, and 2019, Roberta was getting a lot of attention for her performances, including running in the low 2:30s at CIM in 2017. She was training and racing a lot during that time, and even qualified for the 2020 Olympic Trials. Unfortunately, that race ended in a DNF, but that moment in her life became a turning point, which we talk about in detail during our conversation.Fast forward to 2024, where Roberta competed in the Olympic Trials in Orlando. She placed 24th with a time of 2:33. While the time goals were no longer in the picture, Roberta shared how the race felt like a return to herself—the love of running and the joy of racing without the pressure. We also talk about how she ran a smart race in Valencia with a one-minute negative split. After executing that strategy, you can’t help but wonder what might happen if she takes a few more risks in future races!Another highlight of Roberta’s career that we discuss is her amazing performance at the 2019 Marathon World Championships in Doha, where she placed sixth in brutal heat, becoming the top American finisher. She executed that race flawlessly, and it’s one of the moments that truly defines her career. We also touch on the coaching changes in her life and how she has made a significant career shift from nursing to focus full-time on coaching.On top of all of this, Roberta is a mom to three boys, with one still in high school, and we dive into some of the wisdom she’s gathered along the way.This conversation was so refreshing, and I felt like I got to know Roberta even better. I hope you do too. I think you’ll walk away from this episode with some great insights on how to enjoy life to the fullest, take risks, and be grateful. Enjoy the conversation with Roberta Groner!What we talked about:3:00- Catching up with Roberta post race18:30- All of the changes in her life in the past 5 years and going full time in coaching26:30- Being coached by Steve Magness and reflecting on her 6th place finish at the world championships in the marathon38:00- Roberta’s fueling strategy40:45- Roberta’s race at Paris44:00- Roberta’s partner, Sam50:55- The financial side of running for Roberta54:00- Breaking masters records1:00:00- Enjoying every day1:08:20- End of podcast questionsShow notes:Roberta on InstagramMedia recommendations:All the Broken PlacesMoney HeistConnect with Lindsey: Lindsey on InstagramLindsey on TwitterSupport our sponsors:Fringe HealsUse the code “Hein25” for 25% off your orderPrevinexUse code “LindseySuperfoods” for 15% off if you purchase the Gut and Greens SuperfoodUse the code “another” for 15% off OR use code “LindseyStrength” for 15% off if you purchase their new Muscle Health PlusLagoonUse the code “Lindsey” for 15% off your order

On today’s coaching episode, I’m chatting with Will and Samantha Palmer, both coaches for the Florida Gators. Will serves as the Associate Head Coach for cross country and Assistant Coach for track and field, while Samantha is an Assistant Coach for cross country. Before coming to Florida, they were both at the University of Alabama, where they played a big role in leading the team to a third-place finish at the 2022 NCAA Cross Country Championships. Will’s coaching career also includes stints at Georgetown, Western Kentucky, and Iowa, and Samantha was previously an assistant coach at the University of Toledo.Samantha is an accomplished runner herself, having qualified for the US Marathon Olympic Trials in both 2016 and 2020. She also qualified for the 10,000 meters at the 2020 Olympic Trials. I love the dynamic of having a husband and wife coaching duo—it’s not something you see very often—and we talk a little bit about that in this episode. They’re also expecting their second child, so we dive into how they balance family life with coaching.In our conversation, we dig into the culture they work hard to build within their teams, what they prioritize to create a successful environment for their athletes, and how they foster a sense of value for every single person, especially when you’ve got star athletes like Parker Valby on your roster. There’s so much valuable insight about coaching philosophies, team dynamics, and balancing career and family in this episode. I really enjoyed getting to know Will and Samantha, and I know you will too!What we talked about:5:00- Catching up about the Florida Gators6:25- Being a married coaching duo while raising a family11:05- The decision to coach at Florida25:00- Making sure every athlete feels valued on the team32:00- Coaching Parker Valby41:00- Favorite moments as a coach43:30- Volume for each athlete54:45- End of podcast questionsShow notes:The Four AgreementsConnect with Lindsey: Lindsey on InstagramLindsey on TwitterSupport our sponsors:Fringe HealsUse the code “Hein25” for 25% off your orderV.O2Go to vdoto2.com and use the code “CoachLindsey” for 20% off your subscriptionListen to my episode with the founder of V.O2 here

I’m so excited to have my friend, Steph Bruce, back on the show! She’s been a recurring guest and one of my favorites to chat with, and this conversation is no exception. Steph just had an incredible race at the California International Marathon (CIM), where she placed third with a time of 2:28:41. To put that in perspective, this is just 14 months postpartum after having her third baby. What a year it’s been for Steph—and honestly, what a journey these past few years have been, with all of us watching and cheering her on as she continues to defy the odds.Looking back before CIM, this is a continuation of her remarkable comeback story. In February, at the Olympic Marathon Trials, Steph was only four months postpartum. Yet she still showed up and ran an impressive 2:47, proving that she wasn’t just recovering, but ready to return to racing at a high level. Fast forward to CIM, and she’s just one minute off her personal best of 2:27, which she ran in Chicago back in 2019. To say this was a great day for Steph would be an understatement—it was an incredible achievement and a testament to her hard work, resilience, and determination.In this episode, we also dive into some major changes happening in Steph’s professional life. Recently, Hoka NAZ Elite made the decision to let go of several athletes, including Steph. We talk about her perspective on this news, how she’s feeling, and what’s next for her moving forward. It was a candid and insightful conversation, and I’m so grateful to have had the chance to catch up with her.Honestly, I really enjoy these types of conversations, and it makes me wonder why I don’t do them more often. Talking to Steph is always a blast, and I hope you all enjoy listening as much as I did recording it!What we talked about:5:00- Recapping her race at CIM26:05- The comeback postpartum and deciding to run the trials37:20- The changes with her sponsorship with Hoka48:10- How she is feeling heading into the new year57:25- End of podcast chatConnect with Lindsey: Lindsey on InstagramLindsey on TwitterSupport our sponsors:Fringe HealsUse the code “Hein25” for 25% off your orderPrevinexUse code “LindseySuperfoods” for 15% off if you purchase the Gut and Greens SuperfoodUse the code “another” for 15% off OR use code “LindseyStrength” for 15% off if you purchase their new Muscle Health PlusLindsey’s training plansFor $5 off the 5k training plans use code “5kFun”For $10 off half marathon training plans use code “halfmarathonfun”For $10 off marathon training plans use code “marathonfun”For $20 off the bundles use the code “bundlefun”

I’m so excited to bring you another episode in our coaching series sponsored by V.02. Today’s guest is Dr. Jeff Messer, one of the most accomplished high school coaches of all time. Dr. Messer has an incredible track record, having coached 11 state championship teams during his career. In 2016, he was honored with the National Coach of the Year award, a testament to his skill, dedication, and impact on the sport.Beyond his success on the track, Dr. Messer holds a PhD in exercise physiology, blending a deep scientific understanding of coaching with real-world experience. He’s coached athletes like Jess McClain and Dani Jones, and his wealth of knowledge is a powerful combination of cutting-edge research and practical application. What really sets him apart is how he’s able to integrate the science of coaching with the heart and soul it takes to truly connect with and elevate athletes. He cares deeply about the individuals he coaches, and that genuine investment in their growth and success is evident in every aspect of his approach.This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone who has ever wanted to coach, is currently coaching, or is searching for the qualities of a great coach. Dr. Jeff Messer exemplifies what it means to be a class act in coaching—someone who combines expertise, passion, and a deep commitment to the athletes they serve.What we talked about:3:00- Getting to know Dr. Jeff Messer and his training12:40- Effort in workouts19:45- Coaching high schoolers40:30- The importance of academics alongside sport45:00- Holding standards at practice52:45- The science side of the sport1:16:30- End of podcast questionsShow notes:Work with JeffMedia recommendations:Heartbreak RidgeAmazing RacersVan HalenOther Coaching Series Episodes:Diljeet Taylor – Episode 455Jenna Wrieden – Episode 453Kevin Hanson – Episode 451Sheila Burrell – Episode 449Ryan Hall – Episode 447Jon Green – Episode 445High school coaching series:Chris Turner – Episode 477Chuck Schwartz – Episode 483Lisa Taylor – Episode 481Robyn McGillis and Marie Markham – Episode 479Brian Rosetti – Episode 475Connect with Lindsey: Lindsey on InstagramLindsey on TwitterSupport our sponsors:PrevinexUse code “LindseySuperfoods” for 15% off if you purchase the Gut and Greens SuperfoodUse the code “another” for 15% off OR use code “LindseyStrength” for 15% off if you purchase their new Muscle Health PlusV.O2Go to vdoto2.com and use the code “CoachLindsey” for 20% off your subscriptionListen to my episode with the founder of V.O2 hereLindsey’s training plansFor $5 off the 5k training plans use code “5kFun”For $10 off half marathon training plans use code “halfmarathonfun”For $10 off marathon training plans use code “marathonfun”For $20 off the bundles use the code “bundlefun”

In this episode of our coaching series, sponsored by V.O2, we sit down with Evan Schwartz, head coach of the Track Club in Boulder, Colorado. Evan is an accomplished coach with a wealth of experience in the running industry. He worked in content planning, production, and distribution at Stride before transitioning into coaching, eventually founding his own group called The Track Club, which has been growing steadily in Boulder.Evan’s coaching roster includes athletes like Emma Kertesz, who you may remember from her recent Bayshore Marathon victory and Laura Thweatt, so you get a sense of how much he’s involved with the running community. He’s had athletes achieve incredible feats, including appearances at the 2024 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, the 2024 BAA 5K Pro Field, the 2023 BAA Half Marathon Pro Field, and the 2023 Chicago Marathon Pro Field.In addition to his coaching career, Evan is an accomplished runner himself. His marathon PR is 2:18:19 and he has a half marathon PR of 67:28. Evan is a USATF-certified marathon specialist coach, and you can learn more about his coaching approach and services at evanschwartzcoaching.com.What we talked about:5:00- How The Track Club got started11:10- His career before coaching full time16:00- The business side of The Track Club20:15- His own coach and how he has influenced Evan’s coaching career24:10- High mileage training plans28:30- His favorite cross training and heat training methods38:50- Words of encouragement that he gives athletes on race day47:00- End of podcast questionsShow notes:Evan’s websiteBook recommendations:A Tale for the Time BeingOther Coaching Series Episodes:Diljeet Taylor – Episode 455Jenna Wrieden – Episode 453Kevin Hanson – Episode 451Sheila Burrell – Episode 449Ryan Hall – Episode 447Jon Green – Episode 445High school coaching series:Chris Turner – Episode 477Chuck Schwartz – Episode 483Lisa Taylor – Episode 481Robyn McGillis and Marie Markham – Episode 479Brian Rosetti – Episode 475Connect with Lindsey: Lindsey on InstagramLindsey on TwitterSupport our sponsors:V.O2Go to vdoto2.com and use the code “CoachLindsey” for 20% off your subscriptionListen to my episode with the founder of V.O2 here

In this episode, I had the honor of talking with Lindi Marcusen, a first-time Paralympian who competed in the 2024 Paris Paralympics. Lindi placed sixth in the 100 meter T63 and eighth in the long jump T63, but one of her major career highlights came earlier this year when she broke the American record in the 100 meter T63 at the US Paralympic team trials.Lindi grew up an athlete, competing in gymnastics and later bodybuilding in college, but her life took a dramatic turn in 2017 when she was in a horrific car accident that led to the loss of her right leg. This all happened shortly after her wedding as she was starting a new chapter! In this conversation, Lindi shares how she has overcome incredible adversity and built the strength to become the fastest above-knee amputee woman in the United States.This episode is filled with resilience, strength, and determination. Whether you’re an athlete or not, Lindi’s story will leave you feeling inspired by her perseverance and her commitment to not only reclaiming her life but excelling at the highest level in her sport. Enjoy my conversation with Lindi!What we talked about:2:30- Catching up with Lindi!3:55- Growing up as an athlete and the path to becoming a Paralympian16:00- Finding acceptance and peace in life21:45- Finding athletics again after her accident24:00- Becoming a Paralympian26:00- Becoming a long jumper30:00- Staying calm before big events31:00- What making the team meant to Lindi32:10- Walking through hard times and staying present39:00- The importance of sport46:05- End of podcast questionsShow notes:Lindi on InstagramBook recommendation:Zen Mind, Beginner’s MindConnect with Lindsey: Lindsey on InstagramLindsey on TwitterSupport our sponsors:Donna MarathonJoin me the weekend of January 31st-February 2nd, 2025 for the Donna Marathon weekend! Use the code “Lindsey10” for 10% off your race registrationPrevinexUse the code “another” for 15% off OR use code “LindseyStrength” for 15% off if you purchase their new Muscle Health Plus

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the world of speed climbing with Olympian Piper Kelly. Piper is a 2024 Paris Olympian, a three-time Pan American champion, and she’s from Indianapolis—my hometown, which I obviously had to geek out about. Piper shares what it’s like to train for and compete in speed climbing, including the unique challenges of a sport where you race up the same route every single time. Yes, you heard that right. In speed climbing, the athletes tackle the exact same course over and over, and it’s all about speed—these races last only six or seven seconds. Wild, right?We also talk about Piper’s journey to the Olympics, her first Olympic experience, and how she’s gotten to where she is today. I learned a ton, and I think you will too. Since the interview, I’ve even been inspired to take my kids rock climbing. We’ve gone a few times before, but this time I took all of them, and they had a blast. One of the best parts of this series is that it’s reminding me to push my kids to try new and different sports—not just running, but exploring all kinds of movement and adventure.I also think you’ll appreciate hearing what it’s like to be a professional rock climber, especially in terms of sponsorships and the unique aspects of that lifestyle. And if you had a chance to catch any of the speed climbing events during the Olympics this summer, you’ll know how exciting it is to watch. It’s one of those sports that grabs your attention fast, and Piper does an amazing job explaining why.So, whether you’re already a fan of climbing or just curious about the sport, I think you’ll love this conversation. Don’t forget to follow Piper’s journey as she gears up for Paris 2024!What we talked about:4:15- Her entry into the sport of speed climbing6:10- The different disciplines of climbing8:55- Why she chose the speed climbing discipline12:05- Different styles of climbing16:05- Running in high school18:15- Making the Olympic team24:15- Her family of elite athletes and how her parents instilled a passion for movement35:20- Dealing with injuries in the sport39:40- Growth in the sport44:35- The financial aspect of the sport48:50- Her role as a coach50:20- End of podcast questionsShow notes:@Piper.Climbs on InstagramBook recommendations:Dune SeriesFast GIrlsConnect with Lindsey: Lindsey on InstagramLindsey on TwitterSupport our sponsors:Donna MarathonJoin me the weekend of January 31st-February 2nd, 2025 for the Donna Marathon weekend! Use the code “Lindsey10” for 10% off your race registrationCornbreadUse the code “Another” at checkout for 30% off your order

I’m really excited to bring you today’s conversation with Emma Grace Hurley, who just had an incredible debut in the half marathon at the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon. Emma Grace finished her debut race in a time of 68:26, which is a 5:14 per mile pace (WOW!). She also set the course record for the half marathon at Indy Monumental. She’s part of the Heartland Track Club, which, as a former Indy resident, I’m totally obsessed with—especially knowing how great the running scene is in Indianapolis. I can’t help but geek out about Indy in this episode, so please bear with me. It makes me so happy to see such an awesome team in the city, led by Andrew Begley and Amy Yoder Begley.Emma Grace has had a remarkable year. She’s practically run the entire USATF circuit across multiple distances and has had such great results at so many of them. Just a week before her half marathon debut, she placed third at the USATF 5K Championships in New York. She also placed third at the 10K championships and the 6K championships this year. On top of all that, she represented the United States for the first time at the World Cross Country Championships. Though we didn’t dive into that experience in this episode, I want to direct you to The Relay Podcast, where Mike Ko and I interviewed Emma Grace right after her World Cross race. That episode aired on April 5th, so be sure to check it out in the feed if you’re interested in hearing more about her international debut.What we talked about:5:15- The decision to race the half marathon8:30- Recapping her race22:00- Her mentality during the race25:00- The Heartland Track Club team28:00- What’s next in training44:15- End of podcast questionsShow notes:Emma on InstagramMedia recommendations:The Perfect CoupleThe Five Star WeekendThe White LotusConnect with Lindsey: Lindsey on InstagramLindsey on TwitterSupport our sponsors:LagoonUse the code “Lindsey” for 15% off your orderPrevinexUse the code “another” for 15% off OR use code “LindseyStrength” for 15% off if you purchase their new Muscle Health Plus

In this exciting episode, we dive into the world of beach volleyball with Olympian and Team Canada athlete, Sophie Bukovec. Sophie represented Canada at the Paris Olympics this summer, and we get to hear all about her incredible journey to that stage. She’s been a very competitive athlete since the age of 14. Sophie has built a remarkable career in volleyball, playing for three different universities before ultimately finishing at the University of Southern California (USC). There, she became a three-time national champion and a three-time All-American. We also touch on her silver medal win at the 2022 World Championships in Rome.In this episode, Sophie breaks down what it’s like to compete at the highest levels of beach volleyball, including the unique aspects of the sport, training regimens, and how athletes select their partners. She also shares what life looks like as a professional volleyball player, how she balances competition with her role as founder and executive director of a volleyball academy, and offers advice for young kids considering the sport. We also explore the mindset needed for success in volleyball, as well as Sophie’s unforgettable first Olympic experience in Paris.You can connect with Sophie on Instagram @sophiebukovec and let her know what you thought of this episode. Enjoy my conversation with Sophie Bukovec!What we talked about:3:00- Catching up and getting to know Sophie8:20- Advice to younger athletes in volleyball12:45- Discussing her volleyball partners17:00- The way she set up her training to best prepare herself to be selected for the Olympic team18:20- Encouraging young girls to stay in sport21:20- The strength training that she incorporates into her training25:00- When should you specialize in sports?27:30- Mental training in sports28:30- Her Olympic experience33:30- Sponsorships in the sport34:55- What off-season is looking like for Sophie40:30- Why we should be supporting and watching beach volleyball41:50- Playing on the USC volleyball team and her career as a volleyball player48:30- Honoring her dad while playing49:45- End of podcast questionsShow notes:Sophie on InstagramThe Northern Elite (Sophie’s volleyball academy)Book recommendations:Dialed InBig Magic by Elizabeth GilbertA History of Irish Fairies by Carolyn WhiteArtist:Chris StapletonConnect with Lindsey: Lindsey on InstagramLindsey on TwitterSupport our sponsors:Donna MarathonJoin me the weekend of January 31st-February 2nd, 2025 for the Donna Marathon weekend! Use the code “Lindsey10” for 10% off your race registrationCornbreadUse the code “Another” at checkout for 30% off your order