EP 732: The Journey Back: Runners After Joint Replacement
Release Date: 06/05/2025
Trail Runner Nation
In this episode, we sit down with the new book author to explore what truly drives joy, consistency, and long-term progress in running. Floris shares the patterns he’s uncovered after years of conversations with athletes, coaches, and researchers—stories of everyday runners who transformed their lives through simple habits, sustainable training, and a kinder relationship with themselves. We talk about why self-compassion is one of the most overlooked performance tools, how slowing down can actually speed you up, and why being present in the moment matters more than chasing the perfect...
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What does it take to keep running strong from your teens into your 90s? In this new episode of The Aging Athlete series, co-hosts as we sit down with to talk about her journey through adversity as she is aging and how to adapt to life's circumstances, making her "obstacles the way". Shawn Cheshire is a blind athlete who has achieved remarkable feats in biking and trail running. We walk through Shawn's journey of losing her sight, her transition to becoming a competitive athlete, and her record-setting adventure on the Wonderland Trail. The discussion emphasizes the importance of...
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In this “Point–Counterpoint” episode, we are joined by coaches from two teams— ( & ) and ( & )—to debate hot-button trail topics. They tackle gadgets vs. going by feel (most land on the fence, with Scott pledging a watch-free run), active recovery vs. full rest (consensus: gentle movement wins “if done well”), and competition/professionalization vs. community (community edges out, though competition drives innovation and visibility). A rapid-fire round on race fees concludes that higher prices can be worth it when safety, marking, and aid are rock solid, but swag bloat...
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returns to revisit the MAF Method—training by low heart rate (≈180 minus age)—with Don sharing how it saved his a 100-mile race. Phil explains why most endurance performance is aerobic and how building that system (plus cleaning up diet) beats “no-pain-no-gain.” The episode pivots to his new brain-health research: refined carbs and excess body fat can impair the brain, but the good news is the brain is highly resilient and improves quickly when you remove junk sugars and eat healthy fats. Practical takeaways include using a heart-rate monitor to measure progress, prioritizing diet...
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Have you ever heard a runner drop out of a race and say, “It just wasn’t my day”? Well, —known to the trail world as The Queen—has something to say about that. She argues, “Of course it’s your day! It’s certainly not anyone else’s.” In this episode, Meghan joins us to explore what that really means. Inspired by her recent article in titled “Adventure of Life,” Meghan shares how every long run, race, or adventure mirrors the journey of life itself. Things rarely go exactly as planned—both on the trail and off it—but those unexpected detours aren’t signs to...
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What does it take to keep running strong from your teens into your 90s? In this sixth episode of The Aging Athlete series, co-hosts as we sit down with to discuss the fuel behind performance and longevity. • In past Aging Athlete episodes, we’ve explored how to train smarter as we age, not harder—covering topics like ◦ adapting your training plans, ◦ hormone optimization, ◦ navigating menopause, ◦ and shifting recovery strategies. Meredith has over 100 ultra finishes and three Ultraman finishes, including a 5th place at the world...
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Dr. Mark Cucuzzella returns for his 19th visit (first joined us in 2012) to unpack the “pendulum swings” in running— from minimalist to maximal shoes, handhelds to hydration vests, and data-free runs to tech-heavy biometrics. He shares how his natural-footwear ethos (and ) started before the trend, why different terrains and athletes may benefit from different shoes, and why rotating options can build stronger, more resilient feet. We talk about rucking with a weighted vest as a low-impact way to boost strength, bone density, and aerobic fitness—especially for masters runners— plus...
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In this episode, we welcome back Bob Crowley and Tim Twietmeyer, co-founders of , who’ve shown us how endurance fitness can unlock incredible adventures beyond racing. This fall, they and a team of veteran endurance athletes will bring history to life with a never-before-attempted 120-mile horseback crossing of the Sierra Nevada, retracing the Stephens-Townsend-Murphy Party’s path. Over five days, they’ll ride from Donner Lake to Auburn, uncovering long-lost routes, reflecting on the grit of California’s pioneers, and honoring one of America’s most harrowing journeys. This isn’t...
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What does it take to keep running strong from your teens into your 90s? In this fifth episode of The Aging Athlete series, co-hosts as we sit down with Jeff Browning—coach, ultrarunner, and one of the sport’s most consistent and ageless performers. Jeff shares how he has adapted his training across decades, balancing intensity with recovery to stay competitive deep into his 50s. He talks about the importance of nutrition, mindset, and smart planning as the body changes, offering practical lessons that apply at any age. His story is proof that aging doesn’t mean slowing...
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In this rerun episode, we dig into the science behind what’s happening inside our bodies with registered sports dietitian . Ashley highlights five key biomarkers that endurance athletes should pay attention to—explaining why they matter, what healthy ranges look like, and what steps we can take if our numbers are off. From performance to recovery, these biomarkers influence how well we train and how resilient we are to stress and fatigue. Ashley also shares practical strategies athletes can use to optimize their nutrition and overall health. With her background as a private practice...
info_outlineIn this episode, we explore the challenges and possibilities of running after joint replacement. Joined by athletes Magda Boulet and Bob Crowley, and orthopedic surgeon Dr. John Diana, we discuss personal stories of pain, surgery, and recovery. The conversation highlights how proper medical support, strength training, and rehabilitation can enable runners to return to the sport—even after undergoing major procedures such as hip or knee replacements. We address myths around running and joint damage, emphasizing that movement, including walking, is crucial for joint health. The psychological toll of joint issues and the role of community support in recovery are also central themes. This episode offers hope and practical insights for endurance athletes navigating joint pain or considering surgery.
Check out Bob's History Expeditions website!
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