Beyond The Finish Line | Derek Sprau’s Running Journey

After hitting rock bottom, Derek Sprau laced up and started running—not for the finish line, but for himself. In this episode of Beyond The Finish Line, host Joe Hardin dives into Derek’s powerful journey from post-9/11 trauma to the starting line of the Mohican 100.Derek shares how running helped him overcome divorce, alcoholism, and life upheavals, eventually leading to his role in building the iconic Hot Chocolate 5K/15K series. They discuss why intuitive, heart-led training often beats strict schedules, and how a spontaneous 27-mile run sparked a new chapter in Derek’s ultra running journey.From strength training and real-food nutrition to his dream of completing all 11 U.S. National Scenic Trails (over 18,000 miles!), Derek offers raw insights and motivation for every endurance athlete.If you’re an everyday runner seeking inspiration, practical advice, or just a reminder of why you started—this one’s for you.🎧 Listen now, subscribe, and share with someone chasing their own comeback story.Keep Connected:Run Tri Bike on Instagram: instagram.com/runtrimagRun Tri Bike on Threads:  threads.net/@runtrimagDerek Sprau on Instagram: instagram.com/turntailandtrail