Run The Riot Podcast

Ever had a race—or a life plan—go sideways? You laid out the spreadsheets, packed the drop bags, prepped the fuel… and then something unexpected knocked it all off course? In today’s Midweek Motivation, we’re talking about the power of planning—and the wisdom of pivoting. Coach David Theriot dives into: • Why a solid plan shows discipline and intention • Real-world ultrarunning examples of when a plan breaks down • What we can learn from Cam Ridley’s support of Angela Smith at the Prairie Spirit 100 • How to adjust in the moment without panicking • When pivoting is strength—not weakness • Life lessons from training, racing, and even the Midnight Madness 100 he’s jumping into Whether you’re running your first 50K or trying to hold your life together through unexpected turns, this one’s for you. Remember: Plans are powerful—but clinging to them too tightly can run you into the ground. The best runners—and the strongest people—know when it’s time to adapt Links & Resources • Listen to the full episode with Cam Ridley: www.theriot.run/camr • Need a coach for your next big race? Let’s talk — www.theriot.run/coaching

In this episode of Run the Riot, we hang out with Cam Riddle, a passionate strength coach who's making a difference in the ultrarunning world—without running ultras himself! Cam brings years of experience from the private and collegiate strength and conditioning world and shares how he’s now applying his knowledge to help ultrarunners build stronger, more resilient bodies. We first met Cam while he was crewing ultrarunner Angela Smith at the Prairie Spirit 100. From the jump, his excitement for the sport and love for people was evident. Cam talks about how he got involved in ultrarunning through an athlete he worked with previously and how that opened the door to coaching Angela Smith for her amazing 100-mile finish at the Prairie Spirit 100 in Kansas. Cam breaks down: Why ultrarunners need more than just miles—hello, glutes and core! His approach to balancing runcoaching with strength programming How individualized training can make or break race day performance What it’s like being on the sidelines of an ultra and watching grit in real time Lessons from crewing, cramping, and crawling (sometimes literally) Whether you're a new ultrarunner or a seasoned ultrarunning coach, you'll appreciate Cam's insight, humor, and heart for helping others succeed. This episode is all about community, compassion, and crushing goals. Be sure to check out Cam's social media: Cam on Instagram If you're looking to improve your own ultrarunning strength, visit our coaching page at Run the Riot Coaching. More From this Episode: http://www.theriot.run/camr

You wouldn’t walk into a job interview without practicing your answers… so why would you show up to race day without testing your gear, your fuel, and your mindset? In this Midweek Motivation episode, David breaks down why your long run isn’t “just another Saturday” — it’s your dress rehearsal for the big day. You’ll hear how to use those miles to prepare wisely and avoid avoidable mistakes. From shoes to stomach issues, from pacing to pre-run routines — this one’s all about being intentional so you can be confident when it counts. What You’ll Learn: Why every long run is a chance to simulate race day The key things you must test before race day (gear, fuel, timing, mindset) How to use your long runs to build pacing strategy and mental toughness A bonus tip that can help reduce pre-race anxiety One-Liner Takeaway: Train like it’s race day — so race day feels like just another well-prepared run.

Why do we run from pain? In this Midweek Motivation, we talk about how pain isn’t your enemy—it’s your invitation to growth and purpose. Hear how ultrarunner Sean Rowe turned a health crisis into a life of meaning, running, and giving back. Whether you’re facing a tough workout, a setback in life, or just feel stuck, this episode will remind you: the fire that burns is the fire that builds. We talk about: Why comfort can keep you stuck How pain clarifies your real priorities The role of resistance in growth—on the run and in life How to connect your pain to a greater purpose Real examples from ultrarunning and everyday life

In this powerful episode of Run the Riot, we sit down with Sean Rowe—an inspiring ultrarunner who's living proof that transformation is possible at any stage in life. Sean opens up about his journey from nightclub promoter to endurance athlete, detailing how a health scare at 42 sparked a dramatic lifestyle change. After battling smoking, drinking, and unhealthy habits, Sean committed to fitness, dropped over 90 pounds, and found redemption through running. We talk about: Sean’s transformation from 305 lbs to ultrarunner. His upcoming solo 100-mile run to raise funds for the Wounded Warrior Project. The role of weightlifting in endurance performance. Lessons learned during his 30-mile fundraiser run. Mental grit and training strategies for going long. The power of faith, purpose, and using your platform to inspire others. Sean doesn’t just run—he runs with purpose. And his passion is contagious. If you're looking to push your limits, transform your mindset, or simply get inspired by someone who walks the talk, you’ll love this episode. Show notes for more info: http://www.theriot.run/seanr

In this episode of Run the Riot, we catch up with ultrarunner Suzan Brydon, who’s currently 19 days into a massive and meaningful mission—running over 1,920 miles across the American Discovery Trail as part of a community health initiative supported by her employer, The Cigna Group. This isn’t just a solo adventure—Suzan’s run is empowering young girls through Girls on the Run, raising awareness about rural health gaps, and bringing visibility to women ultrarunners tackling big goals. Suzan shares how she trained by completing the Southern States 200, and how she prepared her body and mind for this endurance feat by leaning into the “mind over matter” philosophy. From mud-filled horse trails lovingly known as the "poop porridge" to peaceful Midwest farmland and iced lattes in small-town cafes, Suzan gives us a glimpse into her daily grind and what it takes to average 23 miles per day. She also talks about the mental and physical shifts that come with multi-week endurance, how she's fueling with real food (including entire pizzas!), and how the support of her husband/crew is keeping the journey rolling. Whether you’re an experienced ultrarunner or someone chasing your first big goal, Suzan’s story is a powerful reminder that limitless potential often starts with one brave step. Check out the show notes here for her links! - http://www.theriot.run/suzanb2

In this episode of Midweek Motivation, David gets real about the kind of training that doesn’t get likes on social media — the cold, quiet, ordinary miles. You know, the ones where you lace up before dawn, even when you're tired, sore, or just not feeling it. He reminds us why boring runs are the foundation of breakthrough performance and why ordinary effort, done consistently, is anything but small. David breaks down four powerful truths: Consistency builds capacity – showing up, even when it’s not glamorous, is where real growth happens. Boring runs train your mindset – mental endurance is forged in the quiet miles, not race-day hype. Small efforts compound over time – like compound interest, daily discipline adds up to massive long-term gains. Love the process, not just the finish line – fulfillment comes from the journey, not just the medal. He also shares insights from Atomic Habits and research from Strava and Frontiers in Psychology, plus a reminder from Galatians 6:9 to keep doing good — both in running and in life — because the harvest is coming. For more information on Run the Riot Podcast and Coaching, go to http://www.runtheriot.run

In this episode of Run the Riot, we catch up with an incredible ultrarunner and returning guest — Amanda Lynch! It's been a few years since Amanda last joined us, and she’s been busy stacking up strong finishes and incredible experiences. From winning first female at the Loup Garou 100 to tackling technical trails at Lovit 100, Amanda has stayed consistent, positive, and resilient. We dive deep into her racing adventures — from the rocky, rolling terrain of Southern States 200 to her methodical preparation for the upcoming Western States 100. Amanda shares practical lessons about training smarter (with the help of hypoxic masks!), fueling smarter, and racing with grit and joy through every challenge. If you’re passionate about trail running, ultra racing, and seeing what’s possible with dedication and positivity, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. Topics Covered: Amanda’s journey to finishing her first 200-mile race at Southern States 200 Nutrition strategies for ultra racing and long-distance trail running Training smart with hypoxic simulation for altitude performance Lessons learned from Loup Garou 100, Lovit 100, and Mohican 100 Managing physical challenges like swollen feet and nighttime navigation Mental strategies for pushing through deep fatigue in 200+ mile races Preparing for the legendary Western States 100 Click here for full episode notes and video! Magic Mind Go to http://mm.runtheriot.run and Use Code: RUNTHERIOTAPR

In this episode of Run the Riot, we sit down with Matt Pruitt, who recently achieved the supported Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the 223-mile Ouachita Trail, spanning Oklahoma to Arkansas. That’s right—Matt didn’t just try it. He got it done. Matt walks us through every gritty, inspiring detail of the journey. From dialing in logistics to managing exhaustion and weather, he shares what it takes to go all-in on a dream and make it happen. Here’s what we talk about: Why the Ouachita Trail was calling Matt Pruitt’s name How he prepared for a multi-day supported effort over 223 rugged miles The role of community and crew in a successful FKT attempt Sleep management, trail conditions, and the mental battles on the move What it feels like to stop the clock on a long-held goal—and hold the record Whether you're aiming for your own FKT or just want a deeper look into the mindset of an ultrarunner at the edge, Matt’s story is full of honesty, strategy, and heart. More info here: http://www.theriot.run/mattp Looking to chase big goals of your own? Let us help. Check out the coaching page: Run the Riot Coaching

In this episode of Run the Riot, we sit down with Angela Smith, an amazing ultrarunner and mother who recently set the Kansas state record for the 100-mile race at Prairie Spirit 100. Angela’s journey from her first ultra race to conquering this major milestone is nothing short of impressive. We dive into her story, from pushing strollers during training to her unwavering determination to balance family life, faith, and ultrarunning. Angela shares her experience of running the Prairie Spirit 100, revealing the mental and physical challenges she faced, the importance of a structured fueling plan, and how her training prepared her for this monumental achievement. With the help of her supportive husband, pacers, and strength coach, Angela finished her first 100-miler in under 16 hours, all while maintaining a positive attitude and learning valuable lessons along the way. Key takeaways from this episode: Fueling Strategies: How Angela perfected her nutrition plan with a mix of gels, carbs, and electrolytes. Mindset in Ultras: The mental game behind pushing through tough miles and staying focused when things get hard. Training Insights: Angela’s approach to training, including strength work and stroller pushing! Balancing Life & Racing: Angela discusses how she manages family life, parenting, and being an ultrarunner. Show notes: http://www.theriot.run/angelas Get your Magic Mind subscription here: http://magicmind.runtheriot.run You get up to 48% off with my code:RUNTHERIOTPOD