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This week on Running with James… Coach Carlos is BACK!

We dive into the current state of HYROX and there’s a lot to unpack:

🔥 The controversy surrounding HYROX NYC
 🎟️ Why getting a race ticket feels harder than ever
 🌎 What to expect as the World Championships approach
 📈 Is HYROX growing too fast, or is this just the next phase of the sport?

And of course, Don Carlito himself, aka Coach Carlos, returns to the mic to share his thoug...

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This week on the Running with James Podcast, we’re joined by new friend Christian Rhodes—ultra runner, Ironman finisher, owner of Rhodes Run Lab, and a guy whose mission goes far beyond selling running shoes.

Christian shares the story behind Rhodes Run Lab, how he got started in endurance sports, and the experiences that shaped his personal motto: “Bigger Than Me.”

We dive into:

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With Special Guest Co-Host Leah Wyatt & Coach Lauren

Episode Description

In the world of running, HYROX, and endurance sports, we spend a lot of time talking about training plans, workouts, nutrition, recovery, and race day strategies. But what about the people who help make it all possible?

This week on The Performance Lab, James is joined by Coach Lauren and special guest co-host Leah Wyatt for a conversation about the often-overlooked side of performance: relationships, support systems, community, a...

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Everybody loves the highlight reel: PRs, podiums, and race photos. But what actually builds great athletes? Pressure. Adversity. Failure. Fatigue. The moments when things don’t go according to plan.

In Week 3 of The Performance Lab, James is joined by Rocky and Coach Lauren to break down the mental side of performance and why adversity often becomes the greatest catalyst for growth.

The crew dives into:
 • Why pressure reveals preparation
 • The difference between discomfort and danger
 • Why one bad workout doesn’t def...

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Everybody wants to get faster… until training gets uncomfortable.

In Week 2 of The Performance Lab, James is joined once again by returning guest cohost Coach Tommy to break down why real growth only happens when you step outside your comfort zone, strategically.

This episode dives into the difference between hard training and reckless training, why easy runs still matter, and how runners and HYROX athletes alike must learn to adapt mentally and physically to stress, fatigue, heat, hills, threshold work, and discomfort.

The guys al...

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Welcome to the first episode of The Performance Lab, a new Running With James series focused on building better athletes from the inside out.

In this episode, we break down the difference between simply working out and actually training with purpose. We dive into the mindset shift that changes everything: training in phases, building with intention, focusing on long-term growth, and becoming the kind of athlete capable of real performance.

Because better results don’t come from doing more…
 They come from doing the right things, at th...

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Jessica takes over the mic and flips the script, putting Coach James in the hot seat for a conversation you don’t usually get to hear.

We go beyond splits and training plans and dive into the real story: the challenges that shaped the journey, the wins that mattered most, and the losses that taught the biggest lessons.

Coach James opens up about what fuels his passion, how his motivation has evolved over the years, and the habits that have made the biggest impact on his performance and life. Fr...

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We’ve assessed. We’ve rebuilt. Now it’s time to fine tune.

In Part 3 of our Off-Season Blueprint series, we break down how to sharpen your training, dial in your focus, and make sure you’re actually ready to perform when race season comes around. From structuring your next training block to identifying whether you need more speed or strength, this episode is all about turning your hard work into real results.

And joining us this week is a special guest co-host… one of the originals… Rocky...

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In Part 2 of our Off-Season Blueprint series, we’re joined by special guest host Tommy Zamora to break down how to rebuild your foundation the right way. From Zone 2 training to running form, strength, and sustainable structure, this is your roadmap to real progress heading into your next race season.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

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The season is over—but before you jump into the next training cycle, it’s time for a reality check.

You showed up. You put in the work. You stayed consistent…

So why didn’t the results match the effort?

In this episode, we kick off our Off-Season Blueprint series by diving into the most overlooked phase of growth: assessment. We break down the biggest blind spots that hold athletes back, training too hard, lacking structure, and neglecting recovery, and help you take...

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Welcome to the very first episode of Coach’s Corner—a new Running with James series created exclusively for our Patreon community.

In this episode, I sit down with two of our own, Coach Carlos and Coach Lauren, to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to pursue performance while living a full life.

We go beyond workouts and race results and dive into the conversations athletes don’t always have out loud—inner dialogue in the middle of a race, how to respond when things get hard, an...

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It’s race weekend in Houston and the energy is unreal 

In this episode of Running With James, we’re coming to you live from HYROX Houston weekend—where the races are already underway and the atmosphere is electric.

We break down what we’re seeing on the floor as judges and spectators, from athlete strategy and standout performances to the small details that are making a big difference out there. There’s something different about seeing it up close—and we’re giving you that behind-the-scenes perspective.

Most importan...

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We’re officially one week out from HYROX Houston… and now it’s time to lock in.

After breaking down HYROX 101 (what it is) and HYROX 201 (how to race it), this episode is all about HYROX 301: Race Week—how to taper smart, manage your mindset, and show up ready to perform.

In this episode, we cover:

• How to approach race week training (and what NOT to do)

• Why you don’t get fitter this week—you get fresher

• A simple race plan to keep you controlle...

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Last week we covered HYROX 101, what the sport is and why it’s exploding in popularity.

This week we’re going deeper with HYROX 201.

With HYROX Houston right around the corner, we break down the strategies that can make or break your race. From pacing the 8 runs to managing the workout stations, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you avoid early mistakes and finish strong.

We discuss:

• Pre-race routines and race morning mistakes

• How to pace the 8 × 1K runs

• Smart...

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HYROX Houston is around the corner, and in this episode of Running with James, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about one of the fastest-growing fitness races in the world.

From the structure of the race to the strategy behind each station, we dive into what HYROX is, why it’s attracting athletes from all backgrounds, and how you can train and compete at your best.

Whether you’re preparing for your first HYROX event, chasing a new PR, or just c...

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This week on Running with James, we sit down with BC Athlete, keynote speaker, motivator, and author Terry Williams for a powerful conversation about rhythm, growth, and sustainable performance.

As hometown race season heats up, we explore what it really means to push your limits without losing yourself in the process.

Terry shares the philosophy behind his book Life in Rhythm and the framework he now brings to audiences nationwide — including his “Yellow Light Lifestyle” message from the lululemon run club tour:

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In today’s episode of Running with James, we break down one of the hottest topics in hybrid and endurance racing right now:

The release of the new Puma Deviate Nitro Elite HYROX race shoe.

With major brands officially stepping into the HYROX-specific market, what does this mean for race day strategy? Is a dedicated HYROX shoe necessary? And how should athletes think about choosing between a carbon-plated racer, a hybrid trainer, or a more traditional run shoe?

We dive into:

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We talk about the 80% all the time — the easy miles, aerobic base, discipline, and patience.

But this week on Running with James, we’re talking about the 20%.

The hard stuff.

The uncomfortable reps.

The moments that separate the novice from the great.

In Part 4 of Coach’s Clipboard, we break down why 80/20 only works if you respect the 20% — the intensity that sharpens you, exposes your weaknesses, and teaches you how to execute under pressure.

Ins...

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In this episode of Running with James, we’re talking about intentional effort—why every run, lift, and workout should have a purpose. Not every day is meant to be easy, and not every hard effort is smart just because it looks good on Strava.

We break down:

•Why “going easy all the time” can stall progress

•How to assign a goal to every effort

•The danger of vanity runs and chasing numbers for likes

•How Garmin data can help—or hurt...

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In this episode of Coach’s Clipboard, James pulls back the curtain on one of the most common mistakes he sees with runners and hybrid athletes:

Training more… and getting worse.

From extra miles and unnecessary intensity to skipping recovery and chasing fatigue, this episode breaks down why “more” often leads to stalled progress, injury, and burnout.

You’ll hear real coaching conversations, athlete patterns that show up every season, and the difference between productive fatigue and destructive overload.<...

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Stepping into a new season of training, leadership, or life often brings an unexpected feeling: Maybe I don’t belong here.

In this episode of Running with James, Coach James opens his clipboard and talks honestly about imposter syndrome—what it really is, why it shows up when you’re leveling up, and why feeling unready is often the clearest sign that you’re growing.

Drawing from real coaching conversations with athletes navigating new goals, bigger stages, and higher expectations, this episode reframes discomfo...

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Season 5 starts with a reset. We’re talking New Year goals that actually stick, how to build a real plan instead of relying on motivation, and why letting go of old habits is the key to leveling up. Sometimes good isn’t bad—but it can still be the enemy of great. If you’re ready to stop repeating the same year and start running, training, and living with purpose, this season is for you.

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In this Season Finale of the Running with James Podcast, James looks back on an incredible year—celebrating the wins, the work, and the people who made it possible.

This episode also features a special appearance by Dr. W.E. Hutchins—Senior Pastor of the Church of Champions, host of the Courageous Faith Podcast, Ambassador to the United Nations, James’ mentor, and dad. Dr. Hutchins brings wisdom, encouragement, and perspective on faith, leadership, purpose, and staying faithful to the process in every season of life.

More than a recap, this e...

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You can Google workouts, training plans, nutrition advice, and race strategies in seconds—but does that actually make you better?

In this episode of Running with James, we tackle the question every athlete asks at some point: Can Google coach you? We break down the difference between information and transformation, why more data doesn’t always equal better results, and what’s missing when you try to train without real feedback, accountability, and context.

If you’ve ever felt stuck despite “doing all the right...

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This week on Running With James, we’re pulling back the curtain on what it’s really like to judge at a HYROX event. We talk about the challenges, the pressure, and the moments that make you shake your head—especially when racers show up unprepared for the standards. James and the crew swap stories from the grid, break down what it actually takes to put on a smooth, excellent event, and share their final thoughts on this year’s TRE: The Running Event. If you love the sport, love the community, or just lov...

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We’re on the road in San Antonio for The Running Event, sharing stories from the trip, connecting with the running world, and teasing some exciting gear coming soon. And yes… Lauren finally watched Predator, and her 60-second review is everything you hoped it would be. Tune in for the laughs, the gear, and the chaos.

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HYROX Dallas did not disappoint! In this episode, we relive the highlights—from PRs and podiums to the incredible energy of the BCFitFam showing up big. We talk race-day wins, team moments, and what made this weekend one for the books. Then we shift gears into what’s next: goals, upcoming events, and how to ride this momentum into the next phase of training. This is the post-race hype you 

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This week, James and the crew break down what it really takes to stay sharp in the final stretch before HYROX Dallas. From smart training adjustments to the art of the hype huddle, we talk mindset, movement, and the small details that make a big difference on race day. Whether you’re chasing a PR or taking on HYROX for the first time, this episode gives you the focus, confidence, and game plan you need to hit the grid ready to dominate.

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HYROX isn’t just physical — it’s mental.

In Week 3 of our Building Your Best HYROX training series, James breaks down the mindset tools elite hybrid athletes use to stay calm under pressure, manage discomfort, and keep moving when the race gets tough.

Inside this episode:

🔥 Why mental fatigue can hurt your performance more than physical fatigue

🔥 A simple 5-part mindset framework (C.R.A.F.T.) used by top performers

🔥 How to build confidence, pacing discipline, and emotional control

🔥 The ment...

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Building Your Best HYROX – Week 2: Power + Strength: The Engine That Carries You

In this episode, James, Lauren, and Carlos break down the power behind performance — how building functional strength transforms your HYROX race from survival to domination. 

Learn how to develop the kind of strength that lasts — through sled pushes, farmer carries, wall balls, and walking lunges — while still maintaining your running performance. We’ll dive into how to blend heavy lifts with endurance sessions, train under fatigue, and avoid the overtraining trap that derails so many athletes.

Backed by...

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Race season is here — and it’s time to lock in your HYROX game plan. 

In this episode, James and Lauren kick off a brand-new 4-week series, Building Your Best HYROX, breaking down what makes HYROX unique, how to structure your final month of prep, and the biggest training mistakes to avoid before race day.

You’ll learn how to balance endurance and strength without burning out, how to taper smart, and why training like a hybrid athlete is the key to peak perform...

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This week on Running with James, we wrap up our Back to the Basics series with the mindset that separates casual runners from champions: consistency.

Motivation gets you started—but discipline keeps you going. In this episode, James and Lauren talk about how to build lasting habits, stay consistent through the ups and downs, and develop the mindset that leads to real growth.

We’ll break down what the science says about habit formation, why the “21-day rule” is a myth, and how long it really takes to build unstoppa...

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Think running is enough to get faster? Think again. In this week’s Running with James episode, we’re getting Back to the Basics with one of the most overlooked pieces of training: strength work.

We break down why runners need more than miles to perform at their best — and how strength training builds power, improves form, and helps you stay injury-free.

You’ll learn:

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Are you running hard but still hitting the wall? Your fueling strategy could be the missing link. In this episode of Running with James, we break down everything runners need to know about nutrition and hydration for training and race day.

You’ll learn:

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Conversational & Fun:

This week, things didn’t go as planned—James was down for the count, so instead of our regular episode, we’re giving you something special from the Patreon vault! We catch up on current events, share a few wild stories about getting hit on, and of course, deal with a little bit of classic Lauren energy.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Suppo...

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Slow down to speed up. Zone 2 running is everywhere right now—but what does it really mean, and why is it so important for runners of all levels? In this week’s Getting Back to the Basics episode, Coach James breaks down the science of base training, explains how your body uses the Krebs cycle to create energy, and shares research-backed studies that prove a bigger base leads to a higher peak.

You’ll learn:

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Good running form isn’t just for elites—it’s the foundation that keeps every runner healthy, efficient, and fast. In this kickoff episode of our Getting Back to the Basics series, we break down the key elements of proper running technique and give you practical tools to improve today.

You’ll learn:

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This week’s episode wasn’t planned for the main feed—it was supposed to be a Patreon exclusive. But after recording, we knew it needed to be shared with everyone.

In this unfiltered conversation, we get transparent about the state of our culture, the challenges we’re facing, and the real feelings we’ve been wrestling with. It’s longer, rawer, and goes way beyond training and fitness.

We apologize in advance—it’s not our usual format—but we believe honesty matters. Sometimes...

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The countdown is on! In this episode of Running with James, we’re talking all things DEKA Austin. Coach Carlos, Coach Lauren, and the BCFitFam are ready to throw down, and we’re breaking down the game plan. From strategy and pacing to mindset shifts when the race gets tough, this conversation will get you fired up and race-day ready. Whether you’re competing for the podium or just trying to conquer the course, these insights will help you cross the line stronger.

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Shoes, belts, gels, and more—when it comes to running and training, the right gear can make all the difference. In this episode of Running with James, we break down our must-have essentials for runners, HYROX athletes, and anyone chasing performance.

We’ll cover:

Whether you’...