Mantras and self-talk aren’t about fake positivity or hyping yourself up like a race-day crowd. They’re performance tools—simple, intentional phrases that help you stay grounded, focused, and mentally strong through the highs and lows of training and racing. In this post, I break down what effective self-talk really looks like, how to avoid the common traps (like toxic positivity or comparison), and how to use the right words at the right time to support your mindset, mile after mile

Turning 48 has me reflecting on what it really means to age in sport—and in life. Aging isn’t about decline; it’s about adapting, shifting goals, and embracing new strengths like patience, perspective, and purpose. Sometimes that means letting go of old races and expectations, and finding fresh motivation in unexpected places. This post shares mindset shifts and strategies that have helped me stay competitive and joyful as life evolves—and maybe they’ll resonate with you, too.

After a strong race at the Leadville Trail Marathon, I found myself grappling with the unexpected—missing my primary goal and needing to decide whether to push forward or pivot. This post explores the concept of psychological flexibility—a mental skill that allows athletes to stay rooted in their values while adapting to changing circumstances. Sometimes, the most courageous move isn’t pushing harder, but letting go and choosing a new path. This isn’t failure—it’s growth.

Earlier this week, I ran Hope Pass — an iconic Colorado trail and the heart of the Leadville Trail 100. Each time I reach the 12,600-foot summit, I come away not just a stronger runner, but a more grateful person. This trail holds layers of memories: some hard-earned and painful, others inspiring and humbling.

Over the years, Hope Pass has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, knowing when to let go, and the power of gratitude — especially in moments when the climb feels impossible. Whether it’s racing with a friend who keeps me steady, knowing when to stop and listen to my body, or sharing a family goodbye before a big move, these moments remind me why I keep showing up — on the trail and in life.

Gratitude isn’t just a feel-good bonus. For endurance athletes, it’s a key to long-term mental strength, motivation, and balance. In this post, I reflect on the climbs that shaped me and why gratitude matters in every step forward.

For many of us, running feels like therapy — a way to clear the mind, release stress, and reset. But sometimes, the challenges we face go deeper than a good run can reach. Whether it’s injury, anxiety, or life’s heavy moments, running alone might not be enough. In this post, I share my own journey of learning when to lean on therapy alongside running—and how combining both can help us heal, grow, and show up fully in life.

We all admire grit, toughness, and the relentless grind—especially in endurance sports. But what if “staying hard” all the time isn’t the strongest mindset? In this post, I explore the hidden costs of pushing too far: burnout, injury, and emotional fatigue. Drawing from my own journey and unforgettable moments at races like Hardrock 100 and Quad Rock, I share why true mental strength is about sustainable resilience—the wisdom to know when to push and when to rest. Toughness isn’t just endurance; it’s also self-awareness, listening to your body, and having the courage to say, “This is enough.”

In the world of endurance sports, it's easy to believe that top athletes are just naturally tough. However, mental resilience is something we build, not something we're born with. Like physical strength, mental toughness requires intentional effort, practice, and consistency. Many successful athletes, such as Simone Biles, Michael Phelps, and David Goggins, have openly shared their mental health challenges and the ongoing work they've put in to develop their grit and determination. Mental training is just as crucial as physical training in achieving success. Whether it's overcoming self-doubt or learning to push through obstacles, building mental resilience is a journey that takes time and effort

After a long recovery from meniscus root repair surgery, I found my way back to running, racing, and setting big goals again—this time with even more gratitude, patience, and joy. In this post, I reflect on my comeback marathon, share the psychological hurdles I faced during recovery, and offer encouragement for anyone navigating the emotional ups and downs of returning to sport after injury.

Sports counseling offers athletes a space to navigate the mental and emotional challenges that come with performance, injury, burnout, and transitions. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from your sport, counseling can help you reconnect with your purpose and move forward with clarity and confidence.