Choose Strong
Hosted by Eddie and Sally McRae, Choose Strong is about choosing strength over fear in every situation in life. Strong Mind, Strong Body, Strong Love. Each episode is filled with candid insight, raw and relatable stories and interviews. As a pro athlete, wife, mother, and biz owner, Sally seeks to encourage others to live a strong and courageous life and uses her running as a metaphor for life. The show covers a variety of life focused topics including running, total wellness, mindset, parenting, life balance, the impact of social media, and staying motivated while working toward goals.
#153 | Inside the Crew Behind the Fastest Badwater 135 Ever | Mackenzie Jolliffe & Billy Garner
In this episode, Sally chats with Mackenzie Jolliffe and Billy Garner. They take us behind the scenes of crewing Max Jolliffe during his historic Badwater 135, revealing the planning, pacing, nutrition, split-second decisions and teamwork required to keep him moving. They also share what the experience taught them about trust, friendship, staying calm under pressure and serving someone else without needing the spotlight. Enjoy!
Connect with Mackenzie & Billy!
Mackenzie: Instagram & TikTok
Billy (William): Instagram & TikTok
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#152 | Joe Corcione | The Western States - Badwater Double & Reinventing Your Life
In this episode, Sally chats with her good friend, rockstar pacer, podcast host and ultrarunning coach, Joe Corcione! Joe shares how running helped transform his life from addiction and unhappiness into nearly eight years of sobriety, a coaching career, and a deep belief that people can change through consistent effort. Joe also chats about his demanding Western States–Badwater double and the larger lesson that growth comes from embracing difficult challenges! Enjoy!
Other episode highlights:
Prioritizing rest and mental freshness over additional fitness.His first coach, Zach Bitter, gave him crucial confidence by im...#151 | Max Jolliffe | Badwater 135 CHAMPION
Fresh off his historic Badwater 135 win, in a time of 20:53:41 (the new course record!), Max Jolliffe joins the Choose Strong podcast to chat with Sally about his race & training leading up to race day. You'll gain insight into his mindset as he raced, his race strategy, how he heat trained, fueling and how hiring a coach changed everything for him. Enjoy!
Keep up with Max!
STRAVA
WOAHMAX.com
YOUTUBE
FAVES (Badwater Gear)
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#150 | How to Push Past the Wall, Recover From an Ultra & Believe You Belong
In this episode, Sally answers listener questions about overcoming mental barriers during races, stepping up from the half marathon to longer distances, recovering after a first ultra, and building a career in trail-running media. We also have an honest and encouraging conversation about body image, comparison, and why every runner—regardless of pace, size, or experience—belongs in the running community. Thanks for tuning in - enjoy!
Other Episode Highlights:
How to prepare for the mental wall that often appears late in a marathon or ultra.Why identifying your fears before race day can...#149 | Courage, Curiosity & the Road to the Olympics | Anna Gibson
Elite runner and mountain athlete Anna Gibson joins Sally to share the unexpected journey that took her from the 1,500-meter semifinals at the U.S. Olympic Trials to ski mountaineering’s debut at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Anna opens up about saying yes before she felt ready, winning the race that sent Team USA to the Games, the emotional comedown that followed, and why joy, vulnerability, and community matter more than any result. Enjoy!
Other Episode Highlights:
The funny reality of learning a brand-new sport while chasing the Olympics.Behind-the-scenes moments from Anna’s cras...#148 | Identity, Purpose & the Road Back to Running | Kat Edwards Anderson
In this episode , Sally chats with ultrarunner Kat Anderson in an honest conversation about the winding road that shaped her life—one filled with unexpected detours, difficult seasons, and a renewed sense of purpose. From growing up in a hardworking family to rediscovering her passion for running, Kat shares how every chapter prepared her for the next. Enjoy!
Other Episode Highlights:
Why Kat walked away from running—and what brought her backThe dangers of tying your identity to performanceHow a toxic coach nearly ended her running careerThe power of faith during life's hardest seas...#147 | From Failure to Triple Crown Champion | Kilian Korth on Mental Toughness & Never Quitting
In this episode, Sally talks with Triple Crown champion, Kilian Korth, who shares the remarkable journey that shaped him—from childhood endurance adventures and collegiate swimming to devastating setbacks, career uncertainty, and becoming one of the world's best 200-mile ultrarunners. Together, Sally and Kilian dive deep into resilience, failure, identity, and why the greatest breakthroughs often come from embracing discomfort, letting go of control, and refusing to quit. Enjoy!
Other Episode Highlights:
How Kilian's childhood adventures and competitive swimming shaped the mindset he races with today.The solo backpacking trip that changed his li...#146 | Shin Splints, Recovery, Motivation & Your First Ultra | Running Q&A
In this episode, Sally covers a ton of ground recapping her time in Olympic Valley and answering some great questions from YOU our listeners. We know there will be a few nuggets of wisdom & tips for you to conquer life, training or your next race. Thank you for listening!
Also, be sure to enter the giveaway. We will be picking winners JULY 21.
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#145 | LIVE with RACHEL ENTREKIN | TrailCon 2026
In this LIVE episode from TrailCon 2026, Sally sits down with Rachel Entrekin — 3x Cocodona 250 Champion, holder of 15 FKT records, and one of the most real, relatable, funny, and genuinely inspiring people in the sport. Enjoy!
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#145 | LIVE with RACHEL ENTREKIN | TrailCon 2026
In this LIVE episode from TrailCon 2026, Sally sits down with Rachel Entrekin — 3x Cocodona 250 Champion, holder of 15 FKT records, and one of the most real, relatable, funny, and genuinely inspiring people in the sport. Enjoy!
All links, discounts, and ways to support the podcast are here.
Sally McRae Strength App
Choose Strong Book
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Episode Sponsors:
BUBS Naturals: Live Better Longer with BUBS Naturals. For A limited time get 20% off your entire order with code SALLY at Bubsnaturals.com #sponsored
Mud/WTR: Start your new morning ritual & get up to 43% off your @MUDWTR with code STRONG at mudwtr.com/STRONG! #mudwtrpod #sponsored
#144 | Breaking Your Race Into Thirds, Mindset Training, and Running Like a Squirrel
In this episode we dive into some great questions that will make you a better runner and have better success in your racing. We also share about a small giveaway and much more in this packed 90 mins. Enjoy!
Other Episode Highlights:
June - Busy season Graduation party run-downElectrolyte reminder from Coach Sally World Cup is here! Sally running & commentating at Broken Arrow TrailCon & Western States WeekSally wants to meet YOUCommunity Highlights - International ThemedA Giveaway!Sally SaysHow to start a race w/o blowing upHow to finish a race with gas left in the...#143 | Andy Glaze is Back
In this episode, Sally chats with the most requested and the most frequent Choose Strong guest, Andy Glaze! Andy is currently in NY for his wife's Hyrox, but was able to find some time to record this episode & also able to coordinate a perimeter run of Central Park run (in true Andy fashion) which he shares about. As always it was a great conversation between Sally & Andy. Enjoy.
Other Episode Highlights:
Andy's recent race/adventure scheduleSmile or You're Doing it Wrong - the book launch & toursBook signing tour with Harvey Lewis while running...#142 | What it feels like Recovering from a 200+ Mile race.
In this episode we take a look at what recovery looks like after running 200+ miles. We chat about how long it takes, the food your body craves, the importance of sleep, the importance of your training age in recovery time, and more. Sally shares some valuable tips on how to recover after big efforts or after running 200+ miles while weaving in her own experiences, specifically her most recent Cocodona 250 race. Enjoy!
Download Sally's Strength App! Sally McRae Strength App
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#141 | Sally's COCODONA 250 Race Recap
In this episode we dive into Sally's Cocodona 250 race & give you an inside look as to how the race panned out! Sally touches on everything from bib pickup, the shoes she wore, her nutrition, how her body felt, finding solutions to her "low" points, how grateful she was to be at the start after the past year she had, and so much more! You'll be glad you tuned in for this episode!
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#140 | Cocodona 250 Shoe Line-Up, Lifting After a Run & Sparkling Water
In this episode we chat shoe rotation for the upcoming 250 mile race in AZ, some Sally Says Q & A and we touch on the taper that has begun in Flagstaff. And, as always, we touch on so many other things that you will for sure be entertained by and encouraged by. Thanks for listening!
Other episode highlights:
Boston Marathon recap stories “Boston Magic” in 2005 Mount to Coast Double BostonHumanoid robot half-marathon world record Choose Strong listener highlights Lifting after a run - good idea?Navigating friendship change Sally’s Cocododona 250 shoe rotation line-up & breakdown“K...#139 | How to Build Your Own Ultra Training Camp — Even If You’re Not a Pro
In this episode we talk about the what, why and how of training camps! If you are training for any race, a training camp (by yourself or with others) can be very beneficial. Listen in to find out why you should get a training camp on your training schedule soon!
Other episode highlights:
The Sedona Hangover trail experience More snake talk Differences between a trail run vs a road run “Runcations” on the rise Running to explore new cities Choose Strong listener highlights Should you do a training camp on the race course Practicing running at nightTrainin...# 138 | Rattlesnakes & Gear Reviews
Sally is out in Flagstaff, AZ this week, so we sat down to chat, virtually this episode. We spend some time talking about safety on the trail when encountering animals/snakes, Sally's un-biased & transparent honesty when reviewing shoes, and on the course Cocodona 250 training.
Other episode highlights:
Choose Strong listener shout-outsIf you’re on the trail, get a sharpie!Snake tips for the trailSally a free agent? HONEST reviews on trails shoes & gearNorda shoes going 1000 miles You don’t need $100 shirts...to runThe power of marketing & the ‘cool factor’ Running in Crocs?Training on the Coco...#137 | The End of Nike Trail
For over a decade, the Nike Trail team has been Sally's team. But, recently, the end has come for Nike Trail. In today's episode, she shares about her Nike Trail experience, the origins, insight, and why there is no longer, Nike Trail. She addresses questions that have come up recently about her and Nike Trail, as well as sharing so many great stories and memories she has had over the years. At the end, Sally shares a little bit about what's next for her. Will she be looking for another team? Will she search of another shoe for her...
#136 | Champion's Mindset | Getting Through the Tough Parts
In this episode we answer a few of the most asked questions about mindset, that Sally has received. Sally gives insight and tips, on mindset, from her vast race experiences as a pro for over a decade.
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#135 | Zone 2 Benefits, How Many Strength Sessions Are Enough? & Stomach Issues While Racing
Listen in as we discuss the importance of preemptive gut health, how many times a week you should strength train while training for a race and the importance of the zone 2 slog. Thanks again for choosing to listen to this podcast. We are so grateful you pushed play! Please like, subscribe and head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a positive review 🙏🏼
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#134 | Running Races as Training, Winter Olympics, & Running After Leg Day
We are back again to bring you a bit of everything in this episode. From Sally training on the Cocodona 250 course, some Winter Olympics banter, and some solid "Sally Says" questions & answers. We know you will enjoy this one!
Other episode highlights:
Visual / mental training on the course you will race on74 days until Cocodona 250Training in Lone Pine on the Badwater 135 course Winter Olympics Sally the athlete & Eddie the commentator at the next OlympicsCommunity highlightsSally’s favorite socks to run inShould you run on tired legs?How to use a race as a tra...#133 | Andy Glaze | Goals & Hard Seasons
In this episode, Sally sits down with a fan favorite and a Choose Strong podcast regular, Andy Glaze! Andy shares about his most recent races, his 300 mile week, writing his book, upcoming races and opens up about some current struggles he is facing. You will love this conversation. Enjoy.
Other Episode Highlights:
Cocodona 250 chatter, experiencesCompleting Moab 240 & a sub 24hr at JavelinaAlmost 6 years of 100 mile weeksMaking your own ultraRunning a 100k while helping guys running 100 miles from CA to Las Vegas The "ultra shuffle" The Spine race French fries & Diet CokeAndy’s recovery between big e...#132 | Strength Training for Runners
In this episode Sally breaks down the importance of strength training for runners. She shares exercises, tips, reasons why and how often you should strength train. Plus, if you stick around to the end, she gives a very 'Sally-esque' encouragement to you! Thanks for listening!
Other episode highlights:
Choose Strong community highlightsHips, glutes and ankles - focusSally's top 5 strength exercises Strengthening for downhill running Treating your body as an engineThe importance of bodyweight exercisesHow often should a runner strength train?Should runners lift heavy weights?Running “far” & lifting “heavy” are objective terms...
#131 | Long Haul 100 Recap
Sally sits down in this episode to recap her first race in over a year, the Long Haul 100. She shares about the goals she had for the race, gear, nutrition, the FL trail community, her knee, breaks down each loop & much more! Enjoy!
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#130 | The Courage to Try
Listen in as we chat about having the courage to try & the importance of not waiting for tomorrow to start. You will be encouraged by Sally's mindset as she prepares to get to a start line to pursue a goal she's had for a long time. And, as always, there is much more in this episode for your encouragement, inspiration and entertainment. Enjoy!
Other Episode Highlights:
No sleep with toddlers is the worst Senioritis is realTime flies when you raise kids Mourning seasons of life Gifts & letters from YOUSally on Zillow AGAINStreet Spanish sto...#129 | Making Today Count & Long Haul 100 Prep
As Sally nears the start of a 100 mile race, at the Long Haul 100, she shares about her training, goals for the race and the importance of being obsessed with the day you're in.
Other episode highlights:
Surf City HB 1/2 shake out in February FRHVY swag giveaways at the shakeoutEddie wimping out in the coldLong Haul 100 prepGoal & the journey relationshipBeing obsessed with the day you have to get better Low volume training Run walk training4 hour training runAll links, discounts, and ways to support the podcast are here.
...
#128 | New Year, New Chances & New Opportunities
A New Year brings new chances, new days and new opportunities. Join us this episode as we close out 2025 and look forward to 2026! Happy New Year! Enjoy.
Other Episode Highlights:
New YouTube series - Run Far, Lift Heavy Run For a Claus 5kGiveaway winners announcedAnother “running” Guinness World RecordChoose Strong listener highlightsLessons learned this past yearFailed goal, but other “goals” met along the wayAn encouraging word for 2026New YouTube Series: @sallymcraestrength
Sally's Spotify Playlist: Spotify
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#127 | Greg Kelley | Turning Graveyards into Gardens
After being falsely accused and wrongfully imprisoned, Greg rebuilt his life—emerging as a devoted husband, father, business owner, and ultramarathoner. In this episode, he shares a deeply powerful story of perseverance that will motivate you to pursue your goals and live with purpose for the good of others. Enjoy!
Connect with GREG at:
YouTube: @gregkelleyfreedom
IG: @grkelley2
TikTok: @keepingupwiththekelleys
Outcry on Paramount+: Outcry
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#126 | Running Back to Life | Rachel Entrekin on Recovery, Resilience, and Redemption
Joining the Choose Strong podcast in this episode, is Rachel Entrekin! She is a Norda athlete, and has had recent victories at Cocodona 250, High Lonesome 100 & The Mammoth (and MANY more) . Enjoy getting to know Rachel a little more as she joins Sally in an awesome chat! Enjoy!
Other Episode Highlights:
Recent Norda athlete!Background to how Rachel started runningHigh school battle of identity and self-worthRehab 2x Ultrarunning “saved her life”Running in the southeast How Rachel got into trail runningA French speaker?!Balancing full time work & high level trainingRacing 1000 miles this past yearPT backgr...#125 | Full Body Workout For Ultra Runners, Running in Sand & A Giveaway!
Thank you for listening to our show! We are so grateful that you CHOOSE to listen.
Listen to this episode to see how you can be entered in our giveaway, to say THANK YOU.
Other Episode Highlights:
Sally talks weather - againGiveaway to say thank youBears & World Record talkBrick by Brick challenge updateConsistency is how you lay the foundation for endurance Peanut M&Ms & Chocolate bordeaux in DecemberChoose Strong Community HighlightsRunning in snow & sand The power of mobilityRace planning for the new yearMaking an ‘A’ goal that scares you 50k chatter
<...
#124 | Start Now
*** AUDIO ONLY ***
What are you waiting for? Are you waiting for the perfect time? The perfect skill? Are you afraid of what might happen if you start and something goes wrong?
As you listen to this episode, be encouraged and even challenged to start whatever you have been dragging your feet to do. We share stories of starting things without knowing how it will turn out. Hopefully you will be inspired to START. You only get one life and you're only promised today - why not start!?
<...
#123 | Grateful | Thanksgiving Edition
Listen along as you run your local Turkey Trot, 5k, or on your long drive to Uncle Larry's for some turkey! This Thanksgiving Edition episode will make you laugh and get you thinking about what YOU are grateful for.
We are so thankful for YOU who listen to us each week. Thank you & Happy Thanksgiving!
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#122 | Beginning to Ultra
Join us as we chat about different seasons of parenting, why Sally isn't allowed to visit Makenzie at college anymore, why your feet hurt during ultras and much more! Thanks for listening. We love and appreciate you all.
Connect with Sally on LINKEDIN & on SUBSTACK
All links, discounts, and ways to support the podcast are here.
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#121 | Tara Dower | A Star
Fresh off her course record at Javelina 100, Tara Dower joins Sally in a great conversation! Enjoy!
Other Episode Highlights:
40 days 18 hours 6 min to break the AT FKT in 2024Growing up playing soccer & rugby in college Gained mental toughness from a drill sergeant in the army (her brother) Inspired by a documentary in college - Appalachian Trail thru hikers in 2013Anxiety attack in 20172019 through hiked Appalachian TrailFrom chasing a title to enjoying the journey on the AT5 months and 10 days - first time in 2019 thru hikingCheez its and gushers for nutrition! Candy Mama nickname o...#120 | Figure it Out w/ Tommie Runz
*** AUDIO ONLY ***
Tommie Runz is a dad, a podcast host, fast marathoner, ultrarunner, a future Cocodona 250 finisher (if Sally can get her way) , and all-around great guy. Listen in as Sally chats with the recent Javelina 100 finisher as the talk about sobriety, running 340 miles, and so much more. Enjoy getting to know Tommie!
Other Episode Highlights:
The Detroit Classic - his race Started running after putting away alcohol for goodSober for 8 years Tommie Gunz to Tommie RunzRunning Boston in a ripping fast timeSolo speed project - 340 miles Losing hi...#119 | Thriving Through Injury
How would you react if something that was important to you was taken away? Would you lose hope? Become bitter? Or, would you look for the blessings after the sadness and frustration wear off? Listen in as Sally shares a bit of her journey these past few months being injured. She has some great insight and wisdom that you can apply to almost any situation in your life!
Other Episode Highlights:
- Run club chat
- Stories from Javelina weekend
- The injury breakdown
- A...
#118 | Trail Etiquette | The Unspoken Rules
In this episode, we address the unspoken rules of the trail while racing and training. If you are a beginner on the trails or a seasoned vet, there is something of value for you in this episode. Sally shares some stories from her years of experience on the trails and some 'rules of thumb' she lives by. Enjoy!
Connect with Sally on LINKEDIN & on SUBSTACK
Going to be a Javelina this year? Let us know what you will be doing out there! Send us an email at contact@sallymcrae.com
<...#117 | Human Connection, Dealing With Information Overload, How to Clean Your Bladder & Starting the Day Strong
Back from speaking and a few live events, Sally shares about the importance of human connection & the longing we all have for community.
Other Episode Highlights:
Fall is here and so are the allergiesTrailfest & Mammoth 200 chatHiking for ice-creamSpeaking in MissouriImpactful stories and people Sally met in KY, TN, & MOKids and families Sally connected with Running with othersEarly morning coffee & gym routineConnect with Sally on LINKEDIN & on SUBSTACK
Going to be a Javelina this year? Let us know what you will be doing out...
#116 | Andy Glaze | Success Through Failure
Back by popular demand is our friend, Andy Glaze! It's always a blast and a great conversation when Sally & Andy sit down to chat. We hope you enjoy getting to know Andy a bit more in this episode! Thanks for listening.
Episode Highlights:
288 weeks of 100 mile weeks"Smile" merch Writing a book while having a full-time job, family, and runningUsing feedback for future successCrazy Mountain 100, Leadville 100, & UTMB recap Hiking the Inca Trail & creating memories with familyAndy’s love for flowersRunning 100 miles a week vs training for a mountain ultra X-rays of his feet as “artwork” on his wallB...#115 | The "What If" Mentality, Getting Race-Day Fitness Back, & Transformations
Join us in this episode as we bounce around and touch on many topics! Something for everyone in this episode. If you have ADD, you will love this episode :) Okay, even if you don't, you'll love it too. Thanks again for tuning in and listening. Enjoy!
A Few Episode Highlights:
Sally multitasking & doodling Bike & coffee at the gym Brain hacks to get up early and workout Bench pressing 225lbs Weighing yourself at the gymGetting your race day fitness back after time offWhat if I just tried? What happens if I just keep going? What...