Send us a text The Pole Runner: A Veteran’s Marathon for Mental Wellness In this episode of Do Hard Things , we sit down with Michael Pickings , a 42-year-old Navy veteran whose story is a powerful testament to resilience, mental toughness, and transformation. From excelling as a long-distance runner in high school to serving as an FMF corpsman in the Navy, Michael has lived a life defined by endurance, discipline, and the relentless pursuit of growth. But Michael’s journey hasn’t been without i...
Feb 14, 2025•47 min
Send us a text In today’s episode, I’m sharing my 4 Winter Weather Running Tips to keep you motivated and moving: Mindset is Key : Embrace the challenge and stay positive. Warm-Up First : Start warm to avoid the shock of the cold. Dress in Layers : Find what works and keep experimenting. Have Fun : Forget pace—focus on effort and enjoy the beauty of winter. What’s your go-to winter running tip? If you found this helpful, rate the show on Spotify, subscribe on YouTube, and share it with a running...
Jan 28, 2025•30 min•Season 4Ep. 1
Send us a text Learn strategies to stay safe in an unpredictable world with former high-threat environment protector Alan Earl. During our in-depth discussion, we equip you with the tools to enhance your situational awareness, adopt a criminal's mindset for self-protection, and navigate potential dangers with confidence. For runners, cyclists, and everyday individuals, we offer practical tactics and principles to avoid becoming an easy target, changing the way you move through the world with a v...
May 01, 2024•59 min•Season 3Ep. 30
Send us a text After slogging through the long, cold months of winter, there’s this collective itch we all start to feel – an itch for change, for warmth, and for shedding the old to make way for the new. And what better time to "spring clean" our running routines than now? It’s not just about getting back out there in shorts and soaking up the sun (though let’s be honest, that’s a pretty fantastic part of it). It’s about taking a moment to pause, reflect, and redirect our energies where they’re...
Apr 01, 2024•18 min•Season 3Ep. 29
Send us a text Ever wondered how to maintain your fitness mojo when you're crisscrossing time zones or stuck in a hotel room? Angie and Jay pull back the curtain on keeping your workout routine on point, no matter where your travels take you. We kick off with a candid reflection on our own fitness journeys. Plus, we highlight the undeniable link between fitness, self-care, and self-esteem, illustrating why investing in your well-being is the ultimate power move for your body and mind. Tune in an...
Mar 18, 2024•34 min•Season 3Ep. 28
Send us a text In this inspiring episode of the "Do Hard Things" podcast, Jay and Angi talk about the importance of mindset, from the starting line of race day to the continuous path of everyday life, exploring the transformative power of endurance. Drawing from the rich terrain of endurance sports, Jay and Angi reveal how the principles that lead to athletic success—such as embracing a growth mindset, the art of visualization, strategic goal setting, and the resilience to bounce back—are invalu...
Mar 11, 2024•34 min•Season 3Ep. 27
Send us a text When Kairi Saraya walked into our studio, a wave of stories untold and life experiences unbeknownst to many came with her. As a former Air Force veteran turned advocate, Kairi's tale isn't just about service to the country, but also about the courage in serving her true self. Today's heartfelt discussion unveils the complex fabric of the transgender community, with Kairi guiding us through her personal odyssey towards acceptance. We uncover the nuances of gender identity, the soci...
Mar 06, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Season 3Ep. 26
Send us a text Ever hit that wall where your legs feel like lead and your motivation is as fleeting as a mirage? Angi and I certainly have, and we're here to take you on a journey between pushing our limits and crashing into the unwelcome arms of overtraining. Angie\ opens up about her grueling encounter with shin splints during a Ragnar race prep, painting a vivid picture of the consequences when our mental tenacity outpaces our physical readiness. Together, we unpack the necessity of tuning in...
Mar 04, 2024•36 min•Season 2Ep. 25
Send us a text Have you ever wondered how an active lifestyle can profoundly shift your mindset? This week, we're joined by the great and powerful Muyiwa Abediyi, host of the Day In and Day Out podcast, who brings his infectious enthusiasm for running and a wealth of insight on the mental fortitude needed to push past personal boundaries. Together, we peel back the layers of what it means to embrace the runner's high and the psychological benefits that accompany setting one foot in front of the ...
Feb 28, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Send us a text In this episode of the Do Hard Things Podcast, we provide an overview the demanding sport of Rogaining, aka Map Trekking, Discover how the principles of Rogaining—strategic planning, teamwork, and adaptation—parallel the essential life skills of punctuality, presence, service, preparedness, competence, and self-reliance. We unpack the mantra that has guided Jay through his distinguished military and personal life: Dominating the Basics. Learn the military acronym B.A.S.I.C.S. to h...
Feb 26, 2024•35 min•Season 3Ep. 25
Send us a text In this episode we dive into the mental marathon of long-distance running. Whether you're training for a half-marathon, marathon, or ultramarathon, maintaining mental motivation is just as crucial as physical preparation. We'll explore effective strategies to keep your mind engaged and motivated mile after mile. We also dive into the "Bannister Effect", and discuss how breaking the four-minute mile not only shattered physical barriers but also transformed the mindset of runners wo...
Feb 19, 2024•37 min•Season 3Ep. 24
Send us a text Join Jay and Angi in this enlightening episode as they unravel the world of running splits, a crucial concept for runners of all levels seeking to improve their performance and understanding of pacing. Whether you're eyeing a personal best or just aiming to finish strong, knowing how to effectively use running splits can be your game-changer. From breaking down what splits are and their types—like even and negative splits—to guiding you on how to track and use them to your advanta...
Feb 12, 2024•36 min•Season 3Ep. 23
Send us a text Join Jay and Angi in a myth-busting episode as we sprint through the most common running myths and bring you the truth straight from the track. From debunking the one-size-fits-all training approach to unraveling misconceptions about gear, diet, and form, we tackle the tall tales that can sideline runners. But here's the kicker – it's not just about debunking myths; it's about empowering you to find what truly works for your unique running journey. Tune in as we lace up to clear t...
Feb 05, 2024•33 min•Season 3Ep. 22
Send us a text Ever feel like an imposter? Imagine unlocking the secrets to self-acceptance and a confidence that resonates from within. That's exactly what clarity coach and speaker Rocky Garza invites us to do in a conversation that is as raw as it is revolutionary. With Rocky's guidance, we peel back the layers of our own narratives to confront the fears and desires that mold our identities. It's a journey that promises not just insights but transformative action through the art of identity m...
Jan 31, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Season 3Ep. 22
Send us a text Dive deep into strategic pace training in this episode of the Do Hard Things podcast with your hosts, Jay and Angi. Without getting caught up in specific formulas, we explore the universal principles behind effective pace training that can improve your running. Whether you’re aiming to boost your endurance, speed, or overall performance, understanding the nuances of different running paces is key. From the rejuvenating easy runs to the speed of interval sprints, we dissect how eac...
Jan 29, 2024•37 min•Season 3Ep. 21
Send us a text Ever wondered why some runners seem to effortlessly glide through marathons while others huff and puff their way to the finish line? Angie and I unravel this mystery and more as we share the surprising advantages of hitting the brakes on your running routine. Slowing down, it turns out, is not just for the tortoises of the world – it's a strategy packed with benefits that can take your performance to the next level. From building endurance to mastering the art of fat burning for e...
Jan 22, 2024•33 min•Season 3Ep. 20
Send us a text As we hit the two-week mark of the new year, many of us find ourselves at a pivotal juncture with our resolutions. In this episode of the Do Hard Things podcast, Jay and Angi delve into the art of transforming fleeting resolutions into lasting routines. Join us as we discuss practical strategies to move beyond the initial rush of New Year's enthusiasm and integrate these aspirations into our daily lives. Whether it's fitness goals, personal development, or lifestyle changes, learn...
Jan 15, 2024•33 min•Season 3Ep. 19
Send us a text Ever wonder what it's like to team up with a near stranger for a grueling 8-hour adventure race? That's exactly the twist fate handed me and my new partner, Greg, after my original teammate had to bow out due to injury. Our impromptu duo faced the Castlewood 8-hour adventure race head-on, and this podcast is your opportunity to ride shotgun through the entire electrifying experience. From the pre-race jitters as we laid eyes on a daunting pile of maps, to the warm embrace of the a...
Jan 10, 2024•29 min•Season 3Ep. 18
Send us a text Dive into the second week of our 28-Day Challenge with the Do Hard Things podcast as we explore the transformative power of Pearson's Law. "That which is measured and recorded improves exponentially." This episode unpacks the science of incremental gains and how systematic tracking can lead to unexpected levels of improvement. Join Jay and Angi as they provide actionable insights and talk through strategies to ensure that what you're doing every day isn't just pushing you forward ...
Jan 08, 2024•34 min•Season 3Ep. 17
Send us a text Buckle up, as we journey through Nick Klingensmith's harrowing yet triumphant saga, where he turns his darkest moments into milestones of victory. Embarking on an intimate exploration of resilience, Nick opens up about the grit it takes to conquer cancer, addiction, and a spectrum of health battles. His is a narrative that stretches beyond mere survival; it's an anthem for those who choose to wield the 'Do Hard Things' mindset as a weapon against life's harshest trials. Prepare to...
Jan 03, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 3Ep. 16
Send us a text Welcome Friends/Citizens of the Do Hard Things Nation to another episode of the Do Hard Things Podcast, I am Jay Tiegs, your running coach, certified high-performance mindset and life coach, and founder of the Do Hard Things Nation and I would like to welcome you to another episode of the DHT Podcast. If you want to make 2024 your best, you must avoid this one New Year's Resolution pitfall that causes everyone to quit after 2 weeks. I am going to give the pitfall and three strateg...
Jan 01, 2024•21 min•Season 3Ep. 16
Send us a text Get ready to tackle the "Do Hard Things 28" challenge, an intense 28-day adventure designed to instill high-performance habits and kickstart self-improvement for the new year. As your host, I bring my background as a father, coach, and army retiree into play, sharing my unwavering belief in the power of discipline and physical rigor to unlock personal freedom. This episode isn't just about toughening up; it's a heartfelt exploration of the beauty in life's simple moments, such as ...
Dec 29, 2023•33 min•Season 3Ep. 15
Send us a text Today's Challenge: Buddy Run Activity: Run with a friend or family member. Aim for a minimum of 1 mile. Bonus points if your buddy is a non-runner—let's inspire and uplift! Your Reflections: Share a photo or video from your Buddy Run. Tag us and use #12DaysOfFitmasDHT. Tell us about your buddy's Fitmas experience. Why Buddy Run? Running with a buddy not only makes the miles more enjoyable but also strengthens the bonds of friendship and family. Let's wrap up the 12 Days of Fitmas ...
Dec 24, 2023•13 min•Season 3Ep. 14
Send us a text On the 11th day of Fitmas, Do Hard Things gave to me: Distance Delight It's time for a little extra distance —a chance to go for a longer run or walk at your own pace, soaking in the beauty of the outdoors! 🏞️💭 🚶♂️ Activity: Choose your distance (over a 5k). Must be outdoors, no headphones. Just enjoy the scenery and your own thoughts. Reflect on the things you're grateful for and your accomplishments this year. 💬 Engagement: Share your favorite scenery or landmark from your ...
Dec 23, 2023•11 min•Season 3Ep. 13
Send us a text Day 10 – Friday, December 22: 12 Days of Christmas Body Weight Workout- Strength Surge Activity: Highlight a bodyweight strength training routine targeting major muscle groups. Engagement: Encourage participants to perform the routine and share their favorite exercise from it. On the 10th day of FITMAS, Do Hard Things gave to me: 12 Days of FITMAS Bodyweight Workout 🔥 Bodyweight Workout Routine: Jumping Jack Push-ups Lunges (Each Side) 20 Flutter Kicks (Each Side) Burpees Mountai...
Dec 22, 2023•6 min•Season 3Ep. 12
Send us a text Day 9 – Thursday, December 21: Yoga Flow & Healthy Holiday Recipe Activity: Engagement: On the 9th day of Fitmas, Do Hard Things gave to me: Yoga Flow & Healthy Holiday Recipe Challenge Let’s find balance and nourishment with a soothing Yoga Flow and a delicious, healthy holiday recipe! 🧘♂️ Yoga Flow: Engage in a calming yoga session. Focus on deep stretches and mindful breathing. Share your favorite yoga pose and how it brings tranquility to your day. 🍲 Healthy Holiday...
Dec 21, 2023•8 min•Season 3Ep. 12
Send us a text 🏊♂️🚴♀️🧘♂️ Day 8 of #12DaysOfFitmasDHT: Dive into Cross Training! 🏊♂️🚴♀️🧘♂️ Today's challenge is all about mixing it up with a Cross Training Workout. Choose an activity that complements your running – it could be cycling, swimming, yoga, or anything else you enjoy. Let’s give our running muscles a break and engage different muscle groups! Your Challenge: Engage in a 20-minute session of your chosen cross-training activity. Reflect on how this activity supports and enha...
Dec 20, 2023•8 min•Season 3Ep. 11
Send us a text Welcome back, Do Hard Things Nation! It’s Day 7 of our 12 Days of FITMAS, and today, we're taking our fitness to new heights with the Killer Hill Challenge. Hill running isn't just a change of scenery; it’s a game-changer for your running routine. Hill running is a powerhouse workout. It’s like strength training and cardio rolled into one. Running uphill challenges your muscles, especially your glutes, hamstrings, quads, and calves, providing an intense strength workout. But that’...
Dec 19, 2023•8 min•Season 3Ep. 10
Send us a text Join Jay and Angi on the Do Hard Things podcast as we dive into cold weather running. We tackle the unique challenge of running during the winter months. From smart layering strategies to maintaining a strong mental game, we cover everything you need to transform your winter runs from a dreaded chore to as something you look forward to as part of your fitness journey. FITMAS…. FITMAS Challenge…. On the 6th Day of FITMAS my coach gave me…. STRIDE INTO SPEED! FITMAS Challenge: The P...
Dec 18, 2023•40 min•Season 3Ep. 9
Send us a text On the 5th day of Fitmas, Do Hard Things gave to me: Rest & Reflect, Active Recovery On the 5th day of Fitmas, we're slowing it down to remind you that rest and recovery are just as important as the hustle! 🎁 Today is all about embracing the bliss of Active Recovery. 🧘♀️ Active Recovery Day: Take a break from intense workouts and treat yourself to some gentle movement. Here's our recommended Active Recovery routine: Foam Roll: 10 minutes Example: [Foam Rolling For Runners -...
Dec 17, 2023•9 min•Season 3Ep. 8
