Secret to a Happy Life - Do Hard Things...Together

About this episode

The episode discusses the dynamics of running as a couple, featuring insights and experiences from Benjamin and Janelle.

In this Valentine’s-month special, we sit down with Benjamin & Janelle—a couple we met at Spitfire Ultra and then kept spotting at other Eastern Idaho races (Over The Top, Palisades, River of No Return, and more).We talk about what people don’t tell you about running as a couple: the pace differences, the agreements, the “I’ll see you at the finish line” reality… and how support often happens behind the scenes (planning, nutrition, logistics, and yes—spreadsheets).In this interview, you’ll hear:✅ How their running journey started (cross country → trail racing)✅ Why they usually don’t race side-by-side (and why that works)✅ How they handle different strengths, moods, and rough miles✅ The quiet truth: sometimes encouragement is just presence✅ Their funniest Spitfire moment (blood, a wave, and “don’t bleed out”)✅ Their favorite post-race reward: food rituals (potatoes + cookies included)✅ Why Spitfire keeps pulling them back: small race energy, community vibe, early-season challenge, and running terrain you normally can’t access✅ Their life wisdom: “Do hard stuff… together.”If you’re a couple who runs together (or wants to), this episode will give you real insight—and a few…

People in this episode

Host: JENNIFER J. SAUNDERS

Guests: Benjamin, Janelle

Topics covered

• running as a couple
• relationship dynamics
• support in sports
• race experiences
• life wisdom

Keywords

• running
• couples
• support
• races
• life lessons
• Spitfire Ultra
• Valentine's month

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Spitfire Ultra

Places: Eastern Idaho