Repeats to Self "You Didn't Come This Far to Only Come This Far."
It's game time.
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Presented by Goodr:
A friend texted me yesterday asking how I felt about running a marathon on Sunday, and my response was “it’s just another day of me running around New York City!” That’s the first time I’ve worded it that way, but honestly, I like it. I like it a lot. I’ve been running around this place for almost 11 years now, and I still manage to constantly learn new things, meet new people, and discover shiny new pockets. I’m excited, nervous, and as ready as I’ll be this time around. It’s a long-overdue moment for the city to come together in a way that we haven’t in all too long. And no matter what happens after I cross that starting line on Staten Island, I’m amped to be a part of it.
To those running here in New York this weekend, good luck. To those spectating, it wouldn’t be the same without you. If you’re tackling 26.2, remember: You didn’t come this far to only come this far.
Oh! But first! Pre-Sunday’s events, I’m hosting a conversation with the one-and-only Shalane Flanagan LIVE tomorrow (!!!!) — Saturday at 1 p.m. ET — thanks to the support of my friends at InsideTracker. It’ll be an episode on the show this coming Tuesday (note: No Monday episode next week!). To join from anywhere and watch live, register by clicking this button:
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
I’m Watching: Schitt’s Creek
I tried to get into this show at least three times. Something about time No. 4 made it really stick with me. So much so, that I just started season five.
I’m Listening To: = by Ed Sheeran
I’ve been blasting this and dancing around my apartment while carbo loading for the past couple days. “Tides” is great for jumping around with friends. Bonus! — Sheeran is cleared post-battling COVID-19 to go on SNL tomorrow night.
I’m Reading: How Bad Do You Want It by Matt Fitzgerald
Revisiting some of my favorite passages from this book gearing up for the weekend. This gem: “the only way to become really good at coping with the discomforts and stresses of endurance sports is to experience them.”
Gear I'm Loving: Lululemon Invigorate Tight
Over the summer, I fell head over heels for the Invigorate Short from Lululemon — which I’ll be wearing this Sunday. However, dipping temperatures mean that we’re in tights season, and this is what’s on deck for me — complete with three pockets that create a no-budge solution for my phone, cards, fuel, and keys.
Quote I’m Loving: “If you have the courage to fail, then you have the courage to succeed.” — Shalane Flanagan
Thanks to Goodr — maker of fun, fashionable, and functional sunglasses that everyone can afford — for sponsoring today’s newsletter.
Goodr makes awesome no-bounce, polarized sunglasses that are uber comfortable and super affordable, starting at just $25. They’ve got a style for every taste; I’m big on their Operation: Blackout, but they recently released some new picks that are covered in tacos and pizza slices. Need I say more?
Go ahead. You deserve a great pair of inexpensive sunglasses, perfect for whatever activity you’re getting into! Get 15 percent off of your next purchase at goodr.com/hurdle by using the code “HURDLE15” at checkout.
🎧 NEW PODCAST EPISODE: #HURDLEMOMENT: Goal Setting 101 With Dr. Cheyenne Bryant
Goal setting can be super intimidating, and you're not alone if you're not entirely sure where to start. This week, I'm connecting with Dr. Cheyenne Bryant, a psychology expert and life coach who knows a thing or two about going after big things. We get into what you ~need~ to do before you set a goal, the important list you should make when writing yours down, and tap into the real purpose of them — finding happiness. Plus: How to know when to walk away from a goal, what to do if you hit a hurdle mid-pursuit, and the important must-do thing for once you've conquered your big to-do.
🎧 NEW PODCAST EPISODE: 182. Will Valderrama, Runner
On May 7, 2021, Will Valderrama (called Willy by some of his friends) found out that he has Multiple Sclerosis (MS). On May 10, while at in-person treatment at Weill Cornell, he signed up for a marathon. At the time, he was in a wheel chair — unable to walk in a straight line. Fast forward five months and a lot of difficult moments: On October 16, not only did he run that marathon — but he conquered it, racing through Atlantic City, New Jersey in 4 hours, 22 minutes. When I saw the video of him crossing the finish line, I knew I needed to have him on the show to tell his story.
This week, we get into it all, from what it was like to start experiencing MS symptoms and getting a diagnosis to training while symptomatic. Plus: How he had to change his day-to-day, the debate of whether or not to move from his Brooklyn home, and a complete rundown of race day. This was truly an honor, to hear from Willy and to be able to share his vulnerability with the Hurdle community. I am more empathetic because of this conversation, and I'm forever inspired by his story of grit and determination.
PLEASE LEAVE ME A VOICE MESSAGE! Whether you just want to say hi or have a question you want to ask, I’d love to hear from you! Bonus: Your listener question could be answered in an upcoming episode of the show!
Just wanted to say that Wednesday's episode was EXACTLY what I needed to hear. Going back and listening to it again so I can take notes and soak in what Dr. Bryant was saying. Thanks so much and good luck tomorrow! :)