How Running Saved a Veteran’s Life: Finding Purpose in Ultras episode artwork

EPISODE · Feb 6, 2026 · 49 MIN

How Running Saved a Veteran’s Life: Finding Purpose in Ultras

from For The Long Run: Exploring the Why Behind Running · host Jonathan Levitt

From suppressing emotions as a military veteran to finding freedom on Colorado trails, here’s how Jonathan Mejia discovered that running isn't just exercise, it's therapy in motion.He came to Colorado after film school when the stars aligned and he conquered his first marathon. He’s now looking to take on his first ultra in 2026.Jonathan talks about:Running as freedom and a therapeutic escapeHis military background influencing mental health journeyWhat inspired developing a consistent running habitThe trail running communityBuilding ultramarathon goalsStay connected:Follow Jonathan Mejia:https://www.instagram.com/goodvibesjon/Team RWB:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-set-your-next-big-hairy-audacious-goal-with/id1453616436?1=1000676194617This is episode is supported by:Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠ - Dial your fueling in this year. Use code “LONGRUN26” for 15% off your first order at ⁠www.precisionhydration.com⁠.

From suppressing emotions as a military veteran to finding freedom on Colorado trails, here’s how Jonathan Mejia discovered that running isn't just exercise, it's therapy in motion.He came to Colorado after film school when the stars aligned and he conquered his first marathon. He’s now looking to take on his first ultra in 2026.Jonathan talks about:Running as freedom and a therapeutic escapeHis military background influencing mental health journeyWhat inspired developing a consistent running habitThe trail running communityBuilding ultramarathon goalsStay connected:Follow Jonathan Mejia:https://www.instagram.com/goodvibesjon/Team RWB:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-set-your-next-big-hairy-audacious-goal-with/id1453616436?1=1000676194617This is episode is supported by:Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.Precision Fuel & Hydration⁠ - Dial your fueling in this year. Use code “LONGRUN26” for 15% off your first order at ⁠www.precisionhydration.com⁠.

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How Running Saved a Veteran’s Life: Finding Purpose in Ultras

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This episode is 49 minutes long.

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This episode was published on February 6, 2026.

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From suppressing emotions as a military veteran to finding freedom on Colorado trails, here’s how Jonathan Mejia discovered that running isn't just exercise, it's therapy in motion.He came to Colorado after film school when the stars aligned and he...

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