Just In Stride

40 Episodes
Subscribe

By: Justin Pugliese

Welcome to the Just In Stride Podcast, I’m your host Justin Pugliese. If you love endurance sports you’ve definitely come to the right place. On this show we’ll talk to athletes, coaches and professionals who can help us reach our true potential. Being a student of distance running for over 10 years and interviewing people in the sport for the last 5, I’ve learnt a ton but there’s always more to discover. Everyone has a story and I know you’ll resonate with each of our guests, as we embark on this journey together. Join us at home, on the...

Alissa König living and training in Spain, battling through injury, Olympic dream, lessons to become a better athlete, changing coaches, change of scenery to improve mindset, working with a team, being the best version of herself, love of baking and family time
#43
04/25/2025

On today’s episode of Just In Stride, we’re joined by Swiss triathlete Alissa König, a standout competitor in short-course racing and a dedicated member of the Swiss national team. Alissa discovered triathlon at a young age and quickly embraced the sport's complexity and intensity.

Since then, she has represented Switzerland on the international stage, including a national title in the sprint distance and appearances at major European and World Triathlon events. Alissa approaches the sport with precision and purpose, continually refining her performance across all three disciplines.​

In this episode, she shares her jou...


Ben Mumme on personal growth and self improvement, strides as an athlete, joining the run community, building his own podcast and the keys to unlocking your greatness
#42
04/02/2025

On today’s episode of Just In Stride, we’re joined by Ben Mumme, an endurance athlete, content creator, and host of the Living Your Greatness podcast. Through his own athletic journey and conversations with high performers, Ben explores what it takes to push limits, develop resilience, and build a mindset for success—both in sport and in life.

As a passionate advocate for self-improvement, Ben uses his platform to inspire others to chase their potential. Whether through endurance challenges, personal growth strategies, or deep conversations with experts, he’s always looking for ways to help others unlock t...


Justin Pfefferle on his journey through running and education, learnings from mentors, coaching philosophy's, knowledge, running, team building, cross country, track and field
#41
03/19/2025

On today’s episode of Just In Stride, we’re joined by Justin Pfefferle, a coach, educator, and former athlete whose impact on Canadian distance running continues to grow. Originally from Saskatoon and now based in Montreal, Justin has dedicated himself to developing the next generation of athletes, blending his passion for running with a deep commitment to mentorship and education.

As the head coach of Concordia University Stingers and co-head of Dawson College Blues cross-country, Justin has played a key role in shaping competitive collegiate programs. His background as a former athlete, combined with his experience as a...


Drew Hunter on his pursuit of the Olympics in Los Angeles, Family balance, coaching Hammer and Axe, personal growth, changing sponsors after 10years, triumphs and challenges of the sport, what it means to be a professional runnerOn today's episode of Just In Stride, we're joined by Drew Hunter, a record-breaking distance runner, co-founder of Tinman Elite, and coach at Hammer and Axe Training. From his historic high school performances to his professional career, Drew has continuously pushed the limits of what's possible in distance running. Beyond his achievements on the track, Drew is also balancing life as a husband and father while pursuing his biggest goal yet—making the next Olympic team. Recently, he made a significant career move by signing with a new sponsor, marking an exciting new chapter in both his athletic and personal journey. In this episode, Drew shares his thoughts on this transition, how he approaches coaching and training, and what it takes to juggle elite competition with family life. His
#40
03/07/2025

On today’s episode of Just In Stride, we’re joined by Drew Hunter, a record-breaking distance runner, co-founder of Tinman Elite, and coach at Hammer and Axe Training. From his historic high school performances to his professional career, Drew has continuously pushed the limits of what’s possible in distance running.

Beyond his achievements on the track, Drew is also balancing life as a husband and father while pursuing his biggest goal yet—making the next Olympic team. Recently, he made a significant career move by signing with a new sponsor, marking an exciting new chapter in both...


Elissa Legault on her tremendous rise as a Canadian Marathoner, building herself back up after a length injury, her evolution as a Coach at LegGo Coaching, the mental struggle of taking a step back from the sport, her mindset after her first race back in Vancouver, rehab and recovery tricks
#2
02/26/2025

On today’s episode of Just In Stride, we’re joined by Elissa Legault, an elite long-distance runner and coach at Leggo Coaching. With standout performances on the roads, she has proven herself as a fierce competitor while also helping others chase their own running goals.

Elissa’s journey hasn’t been without setbacks. After dealing with a tough injury, she had to step away from competition, navigate the challenges of recovery, and rebuild both physically and mentally. Now, she’s back stronger than ever, using her experiences to not only elevate her own racing but to guide the...


Tabor Hemming on running her first ever road marathon, Elite trail running, road vs trail, being considered one of the fast couples on the trails, the ranch life
#38
12/20/2024

On today’s episode of Just In Stride, we’re joined by Tabor Hemming—a talented trail runner, endurance coach, and athlete who brings a wealth of experience and insight to the world of endurance sports.

Tabor not only excels on the trails but also wears many hats in her everyday life. As a coach, she empowers athletes to push their limits and achieve their goals. Alongside her husband and training partner, she navigates the highs and lows of competition while managing the demands of operating a family ranch. This balance of grit, teamwork, and dedication shapes her un...


Ryan Hurley on going from elite swimmer to entrepreneurship, starting a business to optimize sleep and performance, importance of proper rest to recover, becoming an ultrarunning
#37
11/06/2024

On today’s episode of Just In Stride we rest and relax with elite swimmer, triathlete and entrepreneur, Ryan Hurley.

Ryan is an elite athlete who brings a wealth of experience and insights to the world of endurance sports. As an accomplished swimmer, ultrarunner, and triathlete, Ryan has pushed his limits across multiple disciplines, demonstrating incredible resilience, adaptability, and drive. Beyond his athletic pursuits, Ryan is the founder of Lagoon, a company dedicated to optimizing recovery and sleep for athletes and high performers.

Through his background in endurance sports and his work with Lagoon, Ryan br...


Nick Kleban on becoming a pro cyclist, going from gravel to road racing, the joy of competition, proper fueling, racing strategies, finding enjoyment in running, different types of gear and accessibility to the sport
#36
09/28/2024

Today's guest has already been on the show to help us with a nutrition series we did earlier this year, however I thought it would be nice to have him back on to share his story.

On this episode of Just In Stride, I had a great conversation with Elite Cyclist, Nick Kleban.

He’s been cycling almost since he could walk, early on in the mountain trails and later on the open roads. It wasn’t always smooth sailing but ultimately he’s found himself back in the saddle and loves to compete with his te...


Joe Corcione on building an Ultra Life, tackling huge goals and mileage, dealing with the unexpected, making positive life changes, from addict to ultra, trail community, coaching others, building his own trail running podcast
#35
09/13/2024

In this episode we have a guest who truly represents the grit, determination, and passion it takes to overcome obstacles and achieve extraordinary things, none other than Joe Corcione.

Joe is a run coach, ultramarathon runner, and host of The Everyday Ultra Podcast—a platform that empowers athletes to elevate their running and personal growth.

His journey is nothing short of remarkable. From battling addiction to becoming an ultra-endurance athlete, he’s shown that no matter where you begin, you have the power to create your own path to success.

Get ready for an e...


Antoine Jolicoeur on his long and successful triathlon career, having fun at a competitive level, being a professional while getting an education, writing his own book on triathlon, coaching athletes, discovering the world of trail running
#33
08/30/2024

Welcome to the "Just in Stride" podcast, where we dive into the world of endurance sports, motivation, and personal growth. I'm your host, and today we have a very special guest with us. He's a triathlete, an author, and a coach who has inspired many with his dedication and passion for the sport. Please join me in welcoming Antoine Jolicoeur.

Antoine's journey in triathlon is nothing short of extraordinary. From grueling training sessions to crossing finish lines, he's not just competed but excelled, embodying the spirit of perseverance and resilience. As an author, he's shared his insights...


Rob Watson on his love of running and pursuit of the Olympic dream, life after running, finding other ways to test himself physically, love of cycling and triathlon, coaching other on how to achieve their goals
#33
08/16/2024

I always find it fascinating how our passion can take on many forms and mean different things to us throughout our lives. I also believe you need to do things you want to do while you’re healthy and while you can because the opportunity to do so may not always be there. So get out there and do what you love for as long as you can.

On this episode of Just In Stride I shared a great conversation with former pro marathon and now coach, Rob Watson.

Simply put, Rob was a pure ta...


Arianne Raby on going from elite marathoner to triathlete, running fast, shifts and priorities through life, becoming a mom, finding balance between parenting, athlete and career, rejuvenating her love for endurance sports
#32
08/09/2024

It’s funny how life changes and with that so do our priorities. What was important to you 5 or 10 years ago may have little to no significance to you today. In a lot of ways, that’s what can make life exciting. Trying new things, exploring new spaces and learning new skills can be so rewarding.

On this episode of Just In Stride I moved through the journey of elite distance runner and now triathlete, Arianne Raby.

Arianne was born to run. She ran in soccer, then in school and even earned a scholarship to cont...


Fuel for Thought Series: Gut Training and Race Day Execution with Nick Kleban
07/31/2024

You may be asking yourself why this episode is titled “Fuel for Thought”. Any guesses?

I mean if you know me, you know I love a good old play on words, hence the name of this new series that I’ve produced with Xact Nutrition.

Athletes train for hours, work with coaches on technique, join workout groups and sign up for big challenges but one of the things we feel could be overlooked by athletes that is so critical, is education regarding nutrition and how it helps you perform.

So we’ve put together...


Danielle Lewis on winning Ironman Lake Placid, the childhood dream to become a pro athlete, overcoming adversity, taking control of her health, finding success in triathlon
#31
07/28/2024

When we think about our future it’s good to set long term and specific goals. It’s funny how putting an idea into the universe can sometimes bring it to fruition years later. Of course there will be twists and turns along the way but if we believe in the process and pursuit of those goals, nothing can stop us.

On this episode of Just In Stride we follow the journey of Pro Triathlete and winner Ironman Lake Placid 2024, Danielle Lewis.

There is a laundry list of things kids say they want to be when...


Fuel for Thought Series: Fueling For Recovery with Alister Gardner
07/11/2024

You may be asking yourself why this episode is titled “Fuel for Thought”. Any guesses?

I mean if you know me, you know I love a good old play on words, hence the name of this new series that I’ve produced with Xact Nutrition.

Athletes train for hours, work with coaches on technique, join workout groups and sign up for big challenges but one of the things we feel could be overlooked by athletes that is so critical, is education regarding nutrition and how it helps you perform.

So we’ve put together...


Yoshi Groen on everything that is Euro Trip, Growing up in a running family, Run Community, Running Junkies, race organizing for the community
#30
07/04/2024

Last month I finally got to take part in an endurance event that had been on my bucket list for years. A relay race across Europe, from Strasbourg to Innsbruck, covering 420km as a relay team of six. The event was called Eurotrip and it certainly did not disappoint. Of course the highlights you see would be the smiles, beautiful scenery and happiness along the way but let me tell you, it was much harder than it looked. Facing the elements, extreme fatigue, logistics and challenging terrain for such a distance can be demoralizing at times however it‘s th...


Fuel for Thought Series: Fueling For Maximum Performance with Nick Kleban
06/27/2024

You may be asking yourself why this episode is titled “Fuel for Thought”. Any guesses?

I mean if you know me, you know I love a good old play on words, hence the name of this new series that I’ve produced with Xact Nutrition.

Athletes train for hours, work with coaches on technique, join workout groups and sign up for big challenges but one of the things we feel could be overlooked by athletes that is so critical, is education regarding nutrition and how it helps you perform.

So we’ve put together...


Moritz Keinath on his pursuit of the marathon, making big strides, building a community, running to move through rehab, achieving 6 stars, analysis to improve
#29
06/20/2024

When I first got into the endurance world I was mainly focused on the training aspect but as I’ve learned and grown over the years, I’ve discovered that there is way more to it than that. Nutrition, rest, strength and sleep all play a major role in how we improve as athletes. If you're interested in taking the next step, ask yourself which of these other aspects do you know little to nothing about and take some time to learn more, you might be surprised how much of an impact it can have on how you perform.


Fuel for Thought Series: Debunking Nutrition Myths with Alister Gardner
06/13/2024

You may be asking yourself why this episode is titled “Fuel for Thought”. Any guesses?

I mean if you know me, you know I love a good old play on words, hence the name of this new series that I’ve produced with Xact Nutrition.

Athletes train for hours, work with coaches on technique, join workout groups and sign up for big challenges but one of the things we feel could be overlooked by athletes that is so critical, is education regarding nutrition and how it helps you perform.

So we’ve put together...


Jen Segger on her adventure race around Croatia, 20 years of experience, Exploration, Discovery, Family, Coaching, Multiday races and the risk/rewards that go with it.
#28
05/29/2024

In endurance sports success doesn’t come quickly. It’s preparation over many days, weeks, months and years that usually yield the most success. It’s consistency over time that allows the body to move, adapt and recover that will provide us with longevity in the sport. Endurance sports is a lifestyle for many, so being able to do it through all stages of life often becomes the big picture goal.

On this episode of Just In Stride we dive into the unknown with endurance athlete, adventure racer and ultra coach, Jen Segger.

20 years ago Jen se...


Melanie Henderson about her intro to triathlon and finishing on podium, being a top age grouper, long distance triathlon, Ironman World Championships, Kona, Airline Pilot athlete balance, living away from home
#27
05/16/2024

As we move through life, we go through many different phases and priorities certainly change. Over time we grow and our appreciation for what’s important in life takes on different forms. That goes for family, friendships, careers and certainly our athletic goals too.

On this episode of Just In Stride we get to know Elite distance triathlete and top age grouper, Melanie Henderson.

Melanie started out as a track and field kid in her youth, always having fun with a healthy dose of competitiveness. She then moved from South Africa to the U.S in...


Community Spotlight by Xact Nutrition: The Xact Story with Lawrence Colsell. His motivations, challenges and triumphs over the last 12 years of living his dream
05/04/2024

It’s been just over a year since I’ve started this new show and I have you to thank for standing by me as we’ve seen it grow. I’ve also been blessed to be supported by exceptional people who have believed in this project from the very beginning, so I’m thrilled to share a little bit more about one of their stories with you here today.

On this episode of Just In Stride Community Spotlight Edition, we’ll get to dig a little deeper into what fuels the man behind Xact Nutrition, founder, entrepreneur...


Faye Alice on her pursuit of ultra distances, the race across Scotland, multi day events, Exploring nature, build a life in Canada, time management, proper fueling for ultras and building self confidence
#26
04/19/2024

My thoughts for today are around the idea that we should never take our good health for granted and I’ll tell you why. I recently had an accident that took me out of running or any sport for that matter for about a week and a half. It happened right outside my house on my bike going super slow, barely pedaling. There was a curb that my front tire cleared but my back tire did not and next thing I knew I was laying head first on the ground with blood dripping from my forehead. Stitches were required an...


Remi Leroux on sub-ultra mountain running, his love of tennis, progression in the sport, racing shorter but faster, training methods, running lifestyle, opportunity to travel, the pursuit of excellence, finding our limits
#25
03/28/2024

When I first started running 14 years ago and signed up for races, I fell into the trap of wanting to jump into the next distance too quickly. A 10K turned into a half marathon which then led me to a marathon shortly after. I didn’t know much about the sport back then but if I had to go back I would stick with one distance for a while longer until I was comfortable to move up. Recently I’ve been racing some shorter stuff and I have to say I’m loving it. Preparing with less mileage, running fast...


Jazmine Lowther on her rise in Ultra Trail Running, overcoming injury, confidence, running form, life choices and understanding what motivates us.
#24
03/13/2024

I love thinking about the idea that just because your life has been a certain way until this point, doesn’t mean you can’t change your own trajectory. Who you were 10, 5 or even last year is not the same person you are today. We live, we learn and we grow. Take the time to acknowledge the challenges and accomplishments in your life, and celebrate how far you’ve gotten.

On this episode of Just In Stride I had a pleasant chat with Elite Ultra Trail Runner and Nutrition Coach, Jazmine Lowther.

She had an active...


Emily Hawgood on her love for trail running, becoming an endurance athlete, Ironman, athlete coach relationship, finding consistency
#23
02/29/2024

One of the things I truly believe in is if you’re passionate about something and you truly love doing it, then you’ll 100% be successful at it. It’s how people make a living doing what they love but nobody said it was easy, you need to put in the work and stay consistent. It takes trying, learning, succeeding and failing to truly make it work, making it all the more rewarding when it goes right. Set a goal but more importantly, draw out a plan to get where you want to go because the only person that can ge...


Sarah Wells on her Olympic path, going from a non-athletic person to an Olympian, self belief, life after sport, pursuing excellence, keynote speaking professional sports, overcoming injuries
#22
02/15/2024

Part of what makes this show a success is your involvement, dedication and recommendations. When you like something about the show you let me know but when you have suggestions you let me know too and for that I’m grateful. It helps me learn, develop and grow as a creator that I hope will translate into an even better listening experience.

On this episode of Just In Stride I had an uplifting conversation with Olympic hurdler, Silver Medalist and Keynote Speaker, Sarah Wells.

She wasn’t a natural athlete in high school by any mean...


Ben Pobjoy discovering planet earth on foot, 242 Marathons in 1 year, Self financed mission, 70 countries traveled, documenting the journey, weight lose, healthy lifestyle
#21
01/31/2024

Have you ever wanted to stop everything in your life to do something that you’re truly passionate about? What if money wasn’t an issue and you had an abundance of time on your hands? What would you accomplish or set out to do? Maybe life looks different through that lens than it does at this very moment. Sometimes it’s good to reflect on what we really want out of life and create a vision for how we plan on getting there.

On this episode of Just In Stride we travel the world on foot with m...


Rory Linkletter on his running journey, trying to make an Olympic team, qualifying standards, Houston Half recap, coaching change and selection, being a full time runner/father/husband
#20
01/23/2024

To set a goal and pour your life into it is something I’ve always admired about endurance athletes. For many professional runners, the Olympics is the ultimate achievement. The chance to be amongst the best in the world, compete in a world class event and to put on your country’s colors is an opportunity of a lifetime.

On today’s episode of Just In Stride we get a pro’s perspective with elite marathoner Rory Linkletter.

Rory found running through school and really never looked back. As he progressed, he realized there were opportun...


Kevin Rempel on The Hero Mindset, recovering from being paralyzed, becoming a Paralympic Bronze Medalist, Keynote speaker, Facing adversity, becoming a Hero in our own story
#19
01/05/2024

Happy New Year everyone. I’m excited for the year ahead and I can’t wait to share more inspiring stories with you all. For many of us January can symbolize a fresh start or a new beginning. But it’s important to realize that we can make changes at any moment in our lives regardless of the day, month or year. Set a goal, make a plan and take the necessary steps to get there.

On this episode of Just In Stride, get ready to be inspired by Paralympic bronze medalist, keynote speaker and author, Kevin Rempel...


Cam Charbonneau on mental skills and how it impacts performance, proper intensity, finding confidence, understanding where you're at, listening to your body, positive self talk, goal setting and planning
#18
12/21/2023

As the end of 2023 approaches, it’s fun to look back and see everything we’ve been through. The wins, the loses, the challenges, the triumphs, the hardship and the moments of joy. Personally, as much as I use this time to reflect on the past, I also love to learn from those experiences and see how I can improve moving forward.

On this episode of Just In Stride we uncover some valuable tools with Olympic lifter, runner and mental skills coach, Cam Charbonneau.

She’s been a high performance athlete her entire life. Whether it’s r...


CJ Albertson on Winning the CIM Marathon, Work/Life/Run Balance, Building up to the Orlando 2024 Trials, Training Methods, Being a husband, father and pro runner
#17
12/08/2023

Winning isn’t everything but it’s certainly nice when it happens. For pro runners especially it can make a huge difference in sponsorship contracts, annual income and quality of life too.

On today’s episode of Just In Stride we get into a winning mindset with Elite Marathoner, CJ Albertson.

Talking to CJ one thing was clear, he loves to run but also loves to win. Most recently he did just that at the California International Marathon in a staked field.

His competitive nature is something he’s had from a young age and...


Rachel Hannah on being a pro marathoner, running for a lifetime, being a sport dietician, facing injury, training methods and fueling strategies
#16
11/22/2023

When we think about training for endurance sports, we often consider having a training plan, perhaps a coach, the proper equipment but nutrition and fueling somehow gets lost in the shuffle. In shorter distances we can get away with being negligent but nutrition becomes increasingly important the further we go.

On today’s episode for Just In Stride, we dove into the importance of nutrition with Elite Marathoner and sport dietician, Rachel Hannah. Rachel Hannah (@rachelhannahrd) | Instagram profile

Rachel is no stranger to running, in fact she’s been doing it since the age of 7. She...


Peter Bromka on his lifelong running journey, his pursuit of the Olympic Trials, writing about his passion, Relay podcast, training partners, coaching, finding meaningful goals and challenging himself.
#15
11/08/2023

I’m actually recording this on my 39th birthday. As tradition would have it, I woke up bright and early to complete 39 kilometers to celebrate 39 years of life. With that comes some reflection about running itself and why I do it in the first place. Sure the tests we face on race day are great but it’s the daily act of lacing them up that’s what I enjoy the most.

Endurance sports have given me structure, strength, good health, discovery, adventure, pleasure and of course the sense of community.
The goals we set will change...


Rob Perez on his love for running and why he does ultras, run content creation, The Speed Project Solo, TSP International in Chile, helping others navigate the running new running world, sharing tips and tricks on all aspects of the run
#14
10/25/2023

I often say that social media is a two edged sword. On one hand, it can consume our time and we can easily compare ourselves to others, putting us in a negative mental space. On the other, we can document our journey and share it with anyone out there willing to listen, potentially impacting someone in a more positive way. I much prefer the latter if I do say so myself.

On today’s episode of Just In Stride I had the chance to connect with Ultrarunner and content creator, Rob Perez.

Rob got into ru...


Heidi Rubin on the arrival of The Infinity Movement, being a queer entrepreneur, helping others, creating a brave space, The Speed Project Experience
#13
10/12/2023

Every so often you come across someone who is a shining light. Who can brighten up your day. Who can make you laugh and who has the ability to change the lives of the people around them, for the better.

Today on Just In Stride I introduce you to queer entrepreneur, gym owner, and strength and conditioning coach, Heidi Rubin aka “Captain Fun”.

Being an athlete and adventure seeker has always been part of life for Heidi. Less so on the competitive side but more about how moving the body can generate a positive impact. Whet...


Mathieu Dore on finding balance in life between family, sports and career, moving across the world, running goals, maintaining fitness with less running hours, training shift when becoming a parent, starting over in a new community, integrating through running, trails, adventure and marathoning , starting a run club, lifting to support the run
#12
09/27/2023

One of my goals for this show is to speak to guests in every country where people listen. So far we’ve reached 20 different countries but have only spoken to guests in 5 of them, so we got a bit of work to do.

This conversation of Just In Stride takes us down under, with Ultra Runner, strength coach and community leader, Mat Dore.

Mat grew up playing every sport he could and had a built-in training partner in his twin brother, which harnessed a strong competitive spirit within himself. He found running as a great wa...


Sachin Latti on running 22 marathons in 22 days and why, being a high lever athlete, working through personal struggles, mental health and ptsd, finding running after years of Jiu Jitsu, wrestling and bodybuilding, Run to Remember: Honor House Society
#11
09/13/2023

Every so often someone special comes across my social media feed and is doing something incredible. I guess that’s the blessing, that we can connect with strangers through one common passion and in this case it’s running.

On this episode of Just In Stride I spoke with ultra runner and mental health advocate Sachin Latti.

He didn't start out as a runner but has been a high level athlete his whole life, competing in wrestling, bodybuilding and jiu jitsu. It was during Covid that Sachin found his stride, using running as a way to s...


John Lofranco on being a high level running coach, training methods, workout benefits and recovery
#10
09/01/2023

I recently asked if you had questions for a running coach via Instagram and you delivered. Listener carefully to see if I got to your question in this next episode. I’m hoping to have more chances to interact with you through this show but that was a great start. Please feel free to reach out on social media or email if you have guest suggestions or questions you like to ask, I’d love to hear from you.

Today on Just In Stride we learn a lot about training with Chartered Professional Coach, John Lofranco.

He...


Natascha Leisi on her free diving experience, competing Internationally, Master scuba dive trainer and her intro into running
#9
08/16/2023

My comfort zone as an interviewer has been speaking to guests who share my passion, which is running. The goal for this show however is to speak with all athletes in endurance sports and try to see if there’s some common ground between them.

On today’s episode of Just In Stride I got in the water with former swimmer, master scuba dive trainer and now competitive indoor freediver, Natascha Leisi.

Whether it was swimming in the lake near her childhood home or jumping in the pool, she’s always gravitated towards the water.

T...