From Sobriety to Ultra Marathons: Amber Graziano’s Journey | Beyond the Finish Line

In Episode 13 of the Beyond the Finish Line podcast, host Joe Hardin sits down with Amber Graziano, a sober athlete, ultra-distance runner, and founder of Recovery Road Runners, to share her inspiring journey from addiction to running ultra marathons. Amber's story is one of resilience, redemption, and a passion for building a supportive community for individuals in recovery. Amber opens up about her early years as a competitive softball player, how alcohol addiction derailed her athletic career, and how her sobriety journey began in 2020. After hitting rock bottom, Amber found solace in running, starting with marathons and quickly progressing to ultra-distance events. Her first 50K race became a breakthrough moment in her sobriety, leading to greater accomplishments like 50-mile races and a recent attempt at a 24-hour race, where she clocked 77 miles. Now, Amber's sights are set on a monumental 100-mile race at the Backyard Ultra in November. This conversation goes beyond the miles, highlighting Amber's commitment to her community. As the founder of Recovery Road Runners, which now has over 2,500 members, Amber has created a space where sober and sober-curious individuals can connect, train, and support each other. Through wellness workshops, retreats, and group training sessions, she has cultivated a thriving community that offers not just camaraderie but also access to valuable resources for those in recovery. Amber's charitable efforts are also a key focus. Recovery Road Runners is now a 501(c)(3) non-profit, raising funds to provide free coaching, running shoes, and race entries for people in recovery. Amber discusses future plans to expand programs, including ones focused on youth and families affected by addiction. Her personal life and training also get a spotlight, as Amber shares her plant-based journey, which has improved her running performance and overall well-being. Amber provides insights on her vegan diet, including her favorite meals and how she incorporates nutrition into her ultra-marathon training. She even shares her recipe book, aimed at helping other sober runners embrace a healthier lifestyle. The episode concludes with Amber and Joe exchanging training tips as they prepare for their own 100-mile races. From zone 2 training to hill work, Amber provides valuable advice on how to increase mileage without risking injury, and emphasizes the importance of balancing high-intensity training with adequate recovery. If you’re an endurance athlete looking for a powerful story of redemption, community, and the pursuit of ultra-running success, this episode is for you. Tune in and get inspired to lace up your shoes and chase your next big goal!