From a 3:05 PR to the Next Step: Re-Thinking the Path to Sub-3 with Dr. Landon Galloway

In this episode of the Fast & Free Podcast, Brant sits down with Dr. Landon Galloway to unpack a Houston Marathon build that resulted in a 3:05 personal best—and the complicated emotions that come with progress falling just short of a long-term goal. Together, they explore how experienced runners navigate the tension between outcome and process, how to assess a race honestly without spiralling, and why maturity in sport often means knowing when not to immediately return to the marathon well.The conversation dives into what it looks like to balance ambition with perspective, especially when chasing an arbitrary but deeply motivating barrier like sub-3. Landon shares insights on training within a strong run community while working with an online coach, managing high-volume training alongside family and work travel, and why having a full life outside of running actually makes sustained progress possible. Brant breaks down the reasoning behind pivoting away from another immediate marathon build and instead targeting shorter races to raise top-end speed and close long-term gaps.This episode is a thoughtful reflection on consistency, patience, and long-term development—highlighting why not every breakthrough comes from doing more, but often from doing something different. Whether you’re a marathoner stuck just outside a major goal, a coach guiding athletes through disappointment, or someone trying to keep sport meaningful alongside real life, this conversation offers a grounded framework for moving forward with clarity and intent.⸻Relevant LinksGet coached by Brant Stachel: https://teamrunrun.com/coach/brant-stachel-kingston-ontario-running-coach/Mental Performance Coaching with Brant Stachel: https://calendly.com/cepadminteam/15-minute-intake-call-clone?month=2026-01Learn More about Team RunRun: https://teamrunrun.com/Fuel your training: https://fuelgoods.com/?ref=Brant⸻About the Fast & Free PodcastThe Fast & Free Podcast with Brant Stachel explores the intersection of endurance training and mental performance. Each episode, Brant—an endurance coach, Registered Psychotherapist, and mental performance specialist—talks with athletes and coaches about training smarter, thinking clearly under pressure, and building sustainable performance over time.⸻Follow Fast & Free CoachingInstagram: @fastandfreecoachingYouTube: @FastandFreeCoachingWebsite: http://runfastandfree.com