Ben Fleming’s career began as a walk-on at Virginia Tech in his hometown of Blacksburg and has led him to the high-altitude proving grounds of Boulder. In this episode, Ben traces the unconventional path from NCAA standout to elite triathlete and, ultimately, back to the track with the HAX.Ben gives us an inside look at the specialized training systems from the great coaches he's worked with, including Ben Thomas, Chris Miltenberg, and Joan Hunter, highlighting the nuances of each system and how they shaped his development.Beyond that, Ben breaks down what it actually takes to stay in the game post-collegiately when the "pro contract" isn't the primary driver.In This Episode:01:44 Blacksburg High Running Culture03:22 Choosing Virginia Tech05:54 Ben Thomas Training System16:28 Injuries and Surgery25:11 UNC vs Virginia Tech Training30:26 Starting Triathlon Training43:45 Returning to Running Full-Time49:28 Outdoor Goals and SteepleBen translates his experience across multiple high-level training systems and background in elite triathlon into a coaching philosophy centered on durability. He specializes in helping athletes stay in the game long enough to see their true potential.Get Coached By Ben: https://haxtraining.com/coached-by-ben_____________________________________________About Hammer & Axe TrainingHammer & Axe Training is a coaching and education platform built by athletes, for athletes. Our coaches work with runners of all levels, providing genuine relationships, proven training methods, and education that helps athletes train with purpose and consistency.1:1 Coaching | Find Your Coach: https://haxtraining.com/coaching-matchTraining Plan Library: https://www.trainingpeaks.com/partners/hammer-axe/Follow For Daily Training Content: https://www.instagram.com/hammerandaxetraining/Read Our Newsletter: https://thehammer.beehiiv.com______________________________________________The HAX Show is grateful to partner with Lever MovementRecover faster, run injury-free, and improve performanceFollow: @levermovementTo support the pod and LEVER, use code HAX20 for 20% off, or follow this link: https://levermovement.com/discount/HAX20

Drew sits down with longtime friend and teammate Sam Parsons to catch up on a period of significant transition in his life. Sam dives into his “bonus year” contract with Tracksmith in 2025, his shift away from the traditional pro running system, and his move into full-time work with the startup tech company Faves.

Soon to move to Los Angeles with his fiancée, Sam reflects candidly on closing the chapter of going all-in on his pro track career. While he describes that as "the best job I'll ever have", he shares how he's rediscovered purpose in the sport through his work at Faves - helping athletes navigate the evolving landscape of marketing and sponsorship.

Lastly, Sam describes what it's been like adapting to training independently and pursuing new types of running goals away from the track.Tune in for an insightful perspective from Sam on what he's excited for - and nervous for - as he steps into a completely new phase of life and community.

In This Episode:

02:37 Running And Mental Health

04:25 New Goals - Half Marathon

**note: Since recording this episode, Sam has decided to not compete in this half marathon anymore. However, he's excited for other exciting race opportunities ahead!

10:28 Training Solo

15:55 Tracksmith Deal Backstory

24:18 Athletes And Brand Value

32:51 Building A YouTube Channel

43:38 Faves Origin Story and Role

50:15 Modern Athlete Marketing

55:59 Leaving Boulder for LA

58:56 Running Future Redefined

01:04:38 Advice for Boulder Dreamers

01:07:31 Retirement Question and Wrap-Up

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About Hammer & Axe TrainingHammer & Axe Training is a coaching and education platform built by athletes, for athletes. Our coaches work with runners of all levels, providing genuine relationships, proven training methods, and education that helps athletes train with purpose and consistency.1:1 Coaching | Find Your Coach: https://haxtraining.com/coaching-matchTraining Plan Library: https://www.trainingpeaks.com/partners/hammer-axe/Follow For Daily Training Content: https://www.instagram.com/hammerandaxetraining/Read Our Newsletter: https://thehammer.beehiiv.com

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The HAX Show is grateful to partner with Lever MovementRecover faster, run injury-free, and improve performanceFollow: @levermovementTo support the pod and LEVER, use code HAX20 for 20% off, or follow this link: https://levermovement.com/discount/HAX20

3x US champion and professional Salomon athlete Annie Rodenfels explains the chaotic finish at the US Half Marathon Championships in Atlanta. What was supposed to be an exciting debut race quickly took a turn (literally) when the lead vehicle misdirected the top four women, causing them to run almost an extra half mile and costing them their finishing positions. Protests and an appeal were denied under rules stating runners are responsible for knowing the course, and Annie was unexpectedly told she finished third. Currently, she remains unclear of the final team selection for the World Road Racing Championships in Copenhagen, which this championship served as a selection race for.Annie also shares her unconventional path from starting track junior year of high school and running D3 at Centre College to training with various pro groups and landing her first professional contract with Salomon. She discusses what that signing process was like, her decision to move to Boulder and join the newly formed, athlete-led Team Meridia, and her future focus across track, roads, and possibly the marathon for LA 2028.In This Episode:00:45 USA Half Champs Chaos06:54 World Team?11:34 Why The Car Turned16:00 Lever Movement: Use Case For Mid-Distance Athletes17:05 Half Marathon Training19:32 Getting Started In Running21:52 Going D3 At Centre College28:17 Going Pro From D330:57 Leaving Greenville For BAA35:06 Self Coaching Era36:46 Signing With Salomon40:29 Choosing Boulder42:10 Team Meridia45:14 Athlete Autonomy vs Old Team Structure51:05 Future Goals: Track, Roads, And Marathon Plans_____________________________________________________________About Hammer & Axe TrainingHammer & Axe Training is a coaching and education platform built by athletes, for athletes. Our coaches work with runners of all levels, providing genuine relationships, proven training methods, and education that helps athletes train with purpose and consistency.1:1 Coaching | Get A Free Personalized Recommendation: https://haxtraining.com/coaching-matchTraining Plan Library: https://www.trainingpeaks.com/partners/hammer-axe/Follow For Daily Training Content: https://www.instagram.com/hammerandaxetraining/Read Our Newsletter: https://thehammer.beehiiv.com_____________________________________________________________The HAX Show is grateful to partner with Lever MovementRecover faster, run injury-free, and improve performanceFollow: @levermovementTo support the pod and LEVER, use code HAX20 for 20% off, or follow this link: https://levermovement.com/discount/HAX20