Run The Riot Podcast

In this Midweek Motivation, we explore the importance of knowing when to back off in your training. Sometimes, the challenge isn't about pushing harder, but about listening to your body and making smart decisions. Key takeaways: * Recognize when to rest: Pushing through pain can lead to injury. * Consistency over time builds fitness: One missed workout won't derail your progress. * Modify your plan: Adapting your training can still lead to success. * Wisdom in training: Sometimes, backing off today allows for better performance tomorrow. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:28 The challenge of knowing when to back off 01:22 Listening to your body 03:05 The importance of...

As temperatures rise and summer training settles in, many runners find themselves asking the same question:

"Why am I so much slower than I was a few months ago?"

In this Midweek Motivation episode of the Run the Riot Podcast, ultrarunner and ultrarunning coach David Theriot shares an important reminder for every runner grinding through the heat and humidity: the work you're doing now is building the fitness you'll rely on later.

With Western States just around the corner and many runners preparing for fall marathons, trail races, 50Ks, 100 milers, and 200-mile ultra...

Big goals are heavy.

In this Midweek Motivation episode, David Theriot shares what training for the Bigfoot 200 is really feeling like about 75 days out from race day. The miles are increasing, life is still moving fast, and the challenge is becoming more than just physical.

This episode is an honest look at balancing ultramarathon training with work, family, coaching, recovery, faith, and everyday responsibilities. David talks about squeezing runs into crowded schedules, getting miles in before sunrise during softball tournaments, and learning that discipline often matters more than motivation.

If you’ve ever fe...

In this episode, David Theriot shares insights on pushing through the middle of challenges, using the analogy of running a race to motivate listeners to stay consistent and disciplined in their pursuits.

http://www.theriot.run

This week the mileage is going up.

More running. More lifting. A midweek double. Early mornings when it would be easier to stay in bed.

And if I’m being honest… it’s inconvenient.

That’s the part most people don’t talk about.

We all like the idea of big goals—running your first ultra, pushing further than you ever have, proving something to yourself. But what those goals actually require? That’s where most people hesitate.

In this episode, I break down what it really looks like to train when...

That voice will show up.

“Just give up.”

In this episode, David shares a real, honest moment from a sleepless night filled with worry—and the familiar whisper that tries to convince us to quit.

Whether it’s in the middle of a long run or a difficult season of life, the battle is often not physical—it’s mental.

Drawing on years of ultrarunning experience, this episode breaks down:

In this episode, David shares insights from his recent 50K race, emphasizing the importance of showing up regardless of conditions, testing yourself, and building discipline over perfection. He discusses how consistency in training and life leads to long-term growth and success.

Keywords: motivation, consistency, training, discipline, life lessons, running, mindset, growth, showing up, long-term success

Key topics:

In this episode of Run the Riot, David sits down with Ryane Broussard, a driven runner, mom of four, and woman of faith who chased one goal for nearly two decades: qualifying for the Boston Marathon.

But Ryane’s path wasn’t a straight line.

After a sudden back injury left her unable to feel or control her left leg, doctors told her she’d need to find a new hobby and stop running. Ryane refused to accept that as the final word. What followed was years of rehab, identity rebuilding, and learning what perseverance really...

Relentless Forward Progress isn’t just an ultrarunning principle — it’s a blueprint for the Christian life.

In this Midweek Motivation episode of the Run the Riot Podcast, David shares how the mindset that carries you through mile 80 of a 100-miler is the same mindset that builds spiritual endurance. When the body is tired and doubt creeps in, runners keep moving forward. When faith feels dry and life feels heavy, believers do the same.

This episode explores:

Ultramarathon mindset and mental toughness

Endurance training and spiritual growth

Staying consistent in you...

In this episode of the Run the Riot Podcast, David sits down with ultrarunner Melanie Mathews for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about grit, setbacks, and what it really takes to stay in the game of ultrarunning.

Melanie’s running story starts long before ultra racing. Growing up on a Nebraska farm, she learned hard work, discipline, and toughness early—qualities that later carried her from road races to trail running and into ultra racing. She shares how she transitioned from marathons like the Little Rock Marathon to rugged mountain events, her early mistakes in trail racing, and why...

In this episode of the Run the Riot podcast, David Theriot discusses the common trap of waiting until one feels ready to take action. He emphasizes that readiness is often a feeling that can delay progress, and instead encourages listeners to take action to build momentum. Through personal anecdotes and examples from ultra running, he illustrates how starting small can lead to significant changes and growth. The episode serves as a motivational call to action, urging listeners to stop waiting and start moving towards their goals.

In this episode of Run the Riot, David sits down with Katie Gunvalson, an ultrarunner known less for traditional races and more for her relentless pursuit of Fastest Known Time (FKT) efforts. Katie shares her journey from road marathons to multi-day ultrarunning challenges that test not just fitness, but resilience, problem-solving, and mental toughness.

Katie opens up about repeatedly falling short on major FKT attempts — including the Pacific Crest Trail and the Arizona Trail — and how those setbacks nearly convinced her to quit. Instead, she chose to keep showing up, learning, and refining her appr...

On this episode of the Run the Riot Podcast, ultrarunner and coach David Theriot sits down with Chris Avery, an ultrarunner on a mission that sounds impossible at first glance: running an ultra marathon every day for an entire year while circumnavigating the perimeter of the United States.

What makes Chris’s story so compelling isn’t just the miles — it’s how it all started. No running background. No love for the sport. Just a willingness to say yes to a single mile a day. That simple act of consistency sparked a transformation that now has Chris ru...

In this episode of the Run the Riot Podcast, we discuss the concept of the 'pain cave' in ultra running, inspired by a conversation with Philip Klinkner. We emphasize the importance of mental preparation and creating a supportive environment before facing challenging races. We share insights on how to mentally prepare for tough moments, using mantras, motivational quotes, and past successes to build resilience. We encourage listeners to prepare their 'pain cave' in advance, highlighting the significance of mental training alongside physical training.

In this episode, we catch up with ultrarunner Phillip Klinkner, a blue-collar beast who’s chasing big goals, grinding out tough training blocks, and trusting the process as he heads into a huge year of ultra racing. From battling brutal foot issues at Hennepin 100, to a breakout 17:10 performance at the Dreadmill 100, to planning an all-out push for 200 miles at Last Dot Standing — Phil is on a mission.

You’ll hear us talk training strategies, treadmill mental battles, aid station efficiency, and the power of community and support. Phil shares how this sport has not only transformed his life b...

The Skill Every Ultrarunner Needs in the New Year

The start of a new year brings motivation, fresh goals, and big plans—but for ultrarunners, that energy can be a double-edged sword.

In this episode of the Run the Riot Podcast, we talk about one of the most important (and overlooked) skills in ultrarunning: training patience. This isn’t about doing less—it’s about doing the right things at the right time so you can stay healthy, consistent, and excited about training all year long.

Drawing from years of coaching ultrarunners and recent c...

Life doesn’t always give us a choice in what happens — but it does give us a choice in how we respond.

In this Midweek Motivation, we talk about what it really means to choose joy, even when life feels heavy. Not pretending things are easy. Not ignoring pain. But choosing gratitude, perspective, and faith in the middle of hard circumstances.

This message is a reminder that joy isn’t a feeling reserved for perfect seasons. It’s a decision we can make — one step at a time.

As we head into Christmas, this episo...

Jeff “Bronco Billy” Browning returns to the Run the Riot podcast for a wide-ranging conversation on staying competitive in ultrarunning for decades, not just seasons. From rebuilding after tendonitis to preparing for Cocodona 250 and another run at Western States, Jeff shares practical insight every ultrarunner and ultrarunning coach can learn from.

This episode covers what it really takes to manage big ultra racing goals, recover from hard efforts like the Colorado Trail, and keep showing up healthy—physically and mentally.

In this episode, we talk about:

Training for Cocodona 250 and managi...

This week on the Run the Riot Podcast, we’re hanging out with ultrarunner Mason Phillips — and what a story this guy brings to the trail! From growing up in California to working remote trail systems in Alaska, Mason’s path to ultrarunning is as rugged and adventurous as the mountains he trains in. At just 26, he’s already crushed a 100-miler at Rio Del Lago and took on the monster that is the Moab 240 — and did it with grit, creativity, and just a little bit of chaos (spoiler: he carried dog food as training weight and wore trash bags for w...

This week, we’re talking about something most of us don’t slow down long enough to consider — identity. Not the surface-level kind. The deep, heart-level “who am I, really?” kind.

A moment at a men’s retreat opened my eyes to how quickly we define ourselves (and others) by what we do. Someone called me “the ultra guy,” and while that’s part of my story, it’s not who I am. That pushed me into some honest reflection.

In this episode, we get into:
• Why performance-based identity is such a trap • How easy it is for good thin...

Chad Bruce is back on the podcast, and this time he’s fresh off the Mammoth 200 — 200+ miles through the high country of the Eastern Sierras. From long stretches of soul-sucking gravel to alpine climbs and a thunderstorm finish that tested every ounce of grit, Chad takes us inside what it really takes to finish a race like this at age 52.

We talk about how his training has shifted with age, what gear and nutrition worked (and what didn’t), how he balances racing with life, and the mental strategies that carry him through the lows. Whether you’re looki...

Welcome back, friends! After a busy season, it’s time for a reset. Today isn’t about perfection — it’s about taking the next step.

What we talk about:

When life gets full and priorities shift

Why stopping for a season doesn’t mean failure

Recap: a powerful men’s retreat and lessons on identity

Family updates (Jennifer’s knee surgery + travel softball chaos)

Why the Heartland 100 got pushed — and why that’s OK

Why comebacks don’t need to be dramatic

The power of a single sm...

In this episode of Run the Riot, we reconnect with Peter Defty, a pioneering force behind the fat-adapted movement in endurance sports. Peter is the man behind Vespa and OFM (Optimized Fat Metabolism), and today, he shares powerful insights into how ultrarunners can unlock performance, recover faster, and sustain longevity by training their bodies to burn fat as a primary fuel source.

We dive into:

Peter’s first 100-miler at the hottest Western States ever recorded 🌡️

How Vespa was inspired by a Japanese study of a wasp species

The science behind OFM and...

In this episode of Run the Riot, ultrarunner Andrea Moore shares how a post-Boston road runner became a desert-loving, mountain-climbing 200-miler—finding joy, grit, and community along the way. We talk about the fire-shortened Oregon 200 experience, redemption arcs at Moab 240 and Tahoe 200, and what it really takes—physically, logistically, mentally—to string together Cocodona 250, Monster 300, and Summit 200. Andrea opens up about mindset over mileage, the power of gratitude, and how OFM/Vespa fueling helps her bounce back fast between huge efforts. What you’ll learn

Ever feel stuck? Like you’ve drifted too far off course and don’t know how to get back?

In this Midweek Motivation, we talk about the power of one sentence — and how it can be the spark that changes everything. Inspired by Run the Riot athlete Phil Klinkner, this short episode unpacks the moment he stood still in the woods, took a deep breath, and said out loud:
“Something has to change.”

Whether you’re battling self-doubt, stuck in a rut, or just coasting through your week, this episode reminds you that you...

In this episode of Run the Riot, we sit down with Christopher Ange from Sulphur, Louisiana. Chris shares his journey from growing up in Lake Charles surrounded by Cajun and Sicilian culture to becoming a passionate ultrarunner and race director.

We talk about:

His early days running the Crescent City Classic with his dad.

Pacing a friend at his first 50K and discovering the trail running community.

Founding the No Man’s Land Trail Run after hurricanes nearly destroyed local trails.

The unique challenges and beauty of running in So...

In this episode of Run the Riot, we dive deep into the powerful story of Phil Klinkner, an everyday guy with an extraordinary mindset. From growing up with the nickname "Fatty" to transforming into a determined ultrarunner who finished the Badger 100, Phil’s journey is raw, real, and undeniably inspiring.

Phil opens up about:

His early days growing up in a trailer park in Wisconsin

Discovering confidence through martial arts as a kid

The struggles of post-COVID life, drinking, and feeling stuck

How a wake-up moment during deer season spar...

Feeling stuck in your training? Wondering if all those miles and early mornings are actually getting you anywhere?

In this episode of Midweek Motivation, I’ll remind you that you’re further than you think — in running and in life.

We’ll talk about:

Why progress often feels invisible until you look back

How to recognize the ground you’ve already covered

The “messy middle” and why it’s where strength is built

A simple exercise to see just how far you’ve really co...

This week on the Run the Riot Podcast, we’re joined by ultrarunner and ultrarunning coach Jackson Wolf, fresh off the legendary Badwater 135. We catch up with Jackson as he bounces between major ultras, pacing gigs, and planning his next adventures, including new races with Rougarou Running. Jackson shares: • A raw recap of his 2024 Badwater 135 experience • Thoughts on struggling with sleep deprivation at Badwater, despite success at races like Cocodona 250 and Oregon 200 • His unique approach to training: racing as training vs traditional long runs • Valuable lessons in mental toughness, race problem-solving, and how stoic philosophy transformed his racing mindset • Transitionin...

Ever had a race—or a life plan—go sideways? You laid out the spreadsheets, packed the drop bags, prepped the fuel… and then something unexpected knocked it all off course?

In today’s Midweek Motivation, we’re talking about the power of planning—and the wisdom of pivoting.

Coach David Theriot dives into:

• Why a solid plan shows discipline and intention

• Real-world ultrarunning examples of when a plan breaks down

• What we can learn from Cam Ridley’s support of Angela Smith at the Prairie Spirit 100

•...

Ever had a race—or a life plan—go sideways? You laid out the spreadsheets, packed the drop bags, prepped the fuel… and then something unexpected knocked it all off course?

In today’s Midweek Motivation, we’re talking about the power of planning—and the wisdom of pivoting.

Coach David Theriot dives into:

• Why a solid plan shows discipline and intention

• Real-world ultrarunning examples of when a plan breaks down

• What we can learn from Cam Ridley’s support of Angela Smith at the Prairie Spirit 100

•...

In this episode of Run the Riot, we hang out with Cam Riddle, a passionate strength coach who's making a difference in the ultrarunning world—without running ultras himself! Cam brings years of experience from the private and collegiate strength and conditioning world and shares how he’s now applying his knowledge to help ultrarunners build stronger, more resilient bodies.

We first met Cam while he was crewing ultrarunner Angela Smith at the Prairie Spirit 100. From the jump, his excitement for the sport and love for people was evident. Cam talks about how he got involved in ultr...

You wouldn’t walk into a job interview without practicing your answers… so why would you show up to race day without testing your gear, your fuel, and your mindset?

In this Midweek Motivation episode, David breaks down why your long run isn’t “just another Saturday” — it’s your dress rehearsal for the big day. You’ll hear how to use those miles to prepare wisely and avoid avoidable mistakes. From shoes to stomach issues, from pacing to pre-run routines — this one’s all about being intentional so you can be confident when it counts.

Why do we run from pain? In this Midweek Motivation, we talk about how pain isn’t your enemy—it’s your invitation to growth and purpose. Hear how ultrarunner Sean Rowe turned a health crisis into a life of meaning, running, and giving back.

Whether you’re facing a tough workout, a setback in life, or just feel stuck, this episode will remind you: the fire that burns is the fire that builds.

We talk about:

Why comfort can keep you stuck

How pain clarifies your real priorities

The role...

In this powerful episode of Run the Riot, we sit down with Sean Rowe—an inspiring ultrarunner who's living proof that transformation is possible at any stage in life.

Sean opens up about his journey from nightclub promoter to endurance athlete, detailing how a health scare at 42 sparked a dramatic lifestyle change. After battling smoking, drinking, and unhealthy habits, Sean committed to fitness, dropped over 90 pounds, and found redemption through running.

We talk about:

Sean’s transformation from 305 lbs to ultrarunner.

His upcoming solo 100-mile run to raise funds for the Woun...

In this episode of Run the Riot, we catch up with ultrarunner Suzan Brydon, who’s currently 19 days into a massive and meaningful mission—running over 1,920 miles across the American Discovery Trail as part of a community health initiative supported by her employer, The Cigna Group. This isn’t just a solo adventure—Suzan’s run is empowering young girls through Girls on the Run, raising awareness about rural health gaps, and bringing visibility to women ultrarunners tackling big goals.

Suzan shares how she trained by completing the Southern States 200, and how she prepared her body and mind for this endu...

In this episode of Midweek Motivation, David gets real about the kind of training that doesn’t get likes on social media — the cold, quiet, ordinary miles. You know, the ones where you lace up before dawn, even when you're tired, sore, or just not feeling it. He reminds us why boring runs are the foundation of breakthrough performance and why ordinary effort, done consistently, is anything but small.

David breaks down four powerful truths:

Consistency builds capacity – showing up, even when it’s not glamorous, is where real growth happens.

Boring runs train yo...

In this episode of Run the Riot, we catch up with an incredible ultrarunner and returning guest — Amanda Lynch! It's been a few years since Amanda last joined us, and she’s been busy stacking up strong finishes and incredible experiences. From winning first female at the Loup Garou 100 to tackling technical trails at Lovit 100, Amanda has stayed consistent, positive, and resilient.

We dive deep into her racing adventures — from the rocky, rolling terrain of Southern States 200 to her methodical preparation for the upcoming Western States 100. Amanda shares practical lessons about training smarter (with the help of hypoxi...

In this episode of Run the Riot, we sit down with Matt Pruitt, who recently achieved the supported Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the 223-mile Ouachita Trail, spanning Oklahoma to Arkansas. That’s right—Matt didn’t just try it. He got it done.

Matt walks us through every gritty, inspiring detail of the journey. From dialing in logistics to managing exhaustion and weather, he shares what it takes to go all-in on a dream and make it happen.

Here’s what we talk about:

In this episode of Run the Riot, we sit down with Angela Smith, an amazing ultrarunner and mother who recently set the Kansas state record for the 100-mile race at Prairie Spirit 100. Angela’s journey from her first ultra race to conquering this major milestone is nothing short of impressive. We dive into her story, from pushing strollers during training to her unwavering determination to balance family life, faith, and ultrarunning.

Angela shares her experience of running the Prairie Spirit 100, revealing the mental and physical challenges she faced, the importance of a structured fueling plan, and how he...