Jason Schwarzer only started running a few years ago, but has instantly become one of the biggest builders of the running community. Co-host of the Runners Like Us Podcast, Jason has found that while he loves what he gets to learn about himself during tough ultramarathons and training blocks, he finds the most joy in sharing the stories of other runners and building them up.

During tough workouts or long runs, Jason often finds himself cheering on the other runners on the trails around him. He does this because for some of them, it might be the only word of encouragement they hear today. And that could change their entire life.

Jason's story shows us that even if you're struggling, never be too selfish or prideful to lift someone else up.

• Follow Jason on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goforyour30/?hl=en
• Listen to the Runners Like Us Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/runners-like-us-podcast-a-safe-place-for-all-runners/id1809260322

In Episode 50 of Through Their Stride, I sit down with Elizabeth Clor, competitive marathoner, running coach, author, and creator of the Racing Stripes blog.

Elizabeth shares the story behind Boston Bound, which follows her seven-year journey to qualify for the Boston Marathon. The conversation explores how perfectionism, anxiety, and putting too much weight on one outcome can become obstacles, and what changed when she learned to stay steady-minded, focus on controllable, and commit to the process.

We also talk about the 10th anniversary of Boston Bound, lessons Elizabeth still carries from her pursuit to Boston, and practical perspective fro runners chasing a BQ, PR, or any meaningful goal.

If you've ever felt that your running goal has become bigger than yourself, this episode is for you.

Connect with Elizabeth Clor

• Book: Boston Bound — https://www.amazon.com/Boston-Bound-Overcome-Barriers-Marathon/dp/1530680581
• Blog: https://www.elizabethclor.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethclor/

#runningpodcast #bostonmarathon #bostonbound #marathontraining

Natalie Lutz is a running coach, mom, full-time employee, and multi-time sub-three-hour marathoner.

At the 2023 Indianapolis Monumental Marathon, Natalie ran 3:00:10 — just 10 seconds away from breaking the three-hour barrier. That near miss gave her a glimpse of what was possible, and she went all-in on the pursuit. Over the next 12 months, she raced five marathons before finally breaking through one year later at the Chicago Marathon.

In this episode, Natalie shares:
- What it felt like to miss sub-3 by 10 seconds at Chicago
- Why she chose to run five marathons in 12 months
- The training, mindset, and persistence behind her sub-3 breakthrough
- How coaching runners fuels her own goals
- Balancing high-level training with motherhood and a full-time job
- Rebuilding her relationship with running after collegiate burnout

If you're chasing sub-3 or any goal that feels out just out of reach, this conversation is a reminder that a near miss can become the start of a breakthrough.

Subscribe for more conversations about marathon training, running culture, and the stories behind big goals.

Follow Natalie Lutz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/multisportmama/

#running #marathon #marathontraining #chicagomarathon #sub3marathon