What if the key to running faster wasn't about running harder, but about remembering how to skip like a kid?

What if the secret to unlocking faster, more joyful running isn’t another grueling workout, but something so simple you’ve likely been ignoring it? In this episode, I dig into the counterintuitive power of short, controlled bursts that could completely change your approach to training—physically and mentally. We’ll uncover why your ego might be sabotaging your progress, how skipping (yes, like when you were a kid) plays a vital role in performance, and the quiet discipline behind showing up daily with purpose. Whether you're trying to break through a plateau or just bring more intention to your running and life, this episode will give you a smarter foundation and a system you can start today.

• [00:00] What most runners skip that actually helps: Strides
• [01:22] What strides are and why they matter
• [03:10] Skipping as a warm-up tool for fast running
• [04:40] How to use skipping and strides in your workouts
• [05:34] The ego trap in training and goal setting
• [06:20] Why “shoulds” burn us out in running and life
• [07:55] What real long-term consistency looks like
• [09:27] Lessons from writing and how they reflect in running
• [10:57] The big truth: life mirrors running
• [11:52] What you can actually start doing today

Nicole Burnham is a RITA award-winning author of over twenty romance novels, including the popular Royal Scandals series.

Before becoming a full-time writer, she earned both a J.D. and an M.A. in political science from the University of Michigan and practiced law.

As an Army brat, she grew up moving around the world, which has influenced the international settings of her novels. Beyond writing, she is an avid runner (marathons and ultras are her jam!) who incorporates strides into her routine to maintain form and energy. Nicole currently resides in Boston, where she balances her writing career with regular runs on local trails.

• 📈 Get your free 1% better 6-weeks to strides, sprints, and habits training plan - https://dlakecreates.com/stridesfree
• 🎧 Listen, read and learn more here https://dlakecreates.com/nicole
• Get my strides, sprints, windups and run-throughs deep dive toolkit here - https://dlakecreates.com/strides
• Nicole Burnham Books & Website
• Nicole Burham on Instagram
• DLake Runs on IG - https://instagram.com/dlakecreates
• DLake Runs on Strava - https://www.strava.com/athletes/120507

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