Six Minute Mile

Today on the podcast, we’re joined by Eric Hinman – Hybrid Athlete & Entrepreneur.Eric is a founder, wellness innovator, and Ironman athlete known for blending elite performance with community-driven recovery practices. His insights are shaped by years of competing at the highest levels and building systems that help others thrive.In this conversion we discover how contrast therapy, strategic routines, and organic connections can unlock your potential beyond traditional wellness advice. Eric explains how to balance slow and steady endurance training with high-intensity efforts, and why pairing habits – like sauna sessions with meaningful conversations – can supercharge both your recovery and life opportunities. Eric’s insights challenge the way athletes and entrepreneurs approach health, emphasizing that doing what you love can create a positive ripple effect that stretches into every part of your life.Just like the SMM Team, Eric is a big fan of the Ozlo Sleepbuds, and he spoke about how their low-profile design and soothing ambiance are a key component of his sleep routine. If you’re looking for another sleep hygiene tool to add to your arsenal, be sure to check out the buds on their site (https://ozlosleep.com/) and use code “SMM” to save $80 off the MSRP price.

Today on the podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Michael Gervais – Performance Psychologist and Founder of Finding Mastery. David and Michael discuss psychological techniques and frameworks used by elite athletes to cultivate a calm, confident mindset, even under pressure. He says that “confidence comes from one place and one place only: what you say to yourself. But it has to be honest.” Analyzing Alyssa Liu’s recent performance at the winter Olympics, Dr. Gervais breaks down the difference between performance-based and purpose-based mindsets – revealing why the latter can lead to freedom, joy, and peak performance. He also shares his experiences working with top athletes and explorers like Felix Baumgartner, whom he worked with to face fear and dissolve pressure in the leadup to his monumental Red Bull Stratos jump. (BTW, check out this incredible GoPro footage of the event if you need a reminder: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYw4meRWGd4, and search for Felix’s 30 for 30 short film on ESPN to learn more about his psychological journey).In addition to performance coaching, Michael shares tips on sleep hygiene, and explains the importance of sleep quality on your mental state and athletic performance. He’s an avid user of the Ozlo Sleepbuds (as we all are on the SMM staff), and if you’re looking for another sleep hygiene tool to add to your arsenal, be sure to check out the buds on their site (https://ozlosleep.com/) and use code “SMM” to save $80 off the MSRP price.

Today on the podcast, we're joined by Grayson Murphy - Pro Runner & Entrepreneur. Grayson shares her journey through pregnancy while navigating her athletic career as a professional runner. She discusses the emotional complexities of being pregnant, the challenges of maintaining her athletic performance after being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, and the importance of mental health support. Grayson emphasizes the significance of listening to her body, the role of sleep in recovery, and the benefits of journaling for athletes. She also talks about her coaching philosophy for athletes and the importance of cross-training. In addition to her illustrious running career, Grayson is the founder and co-owner of Wild Strides Paper Co. - maker of stationery and paper products for athletes. Be sure to check out their store at https://wildstridespaper.com/You can also check out her Instagram (@racin__grayson) and leave her a question or comment about the episode!

2025 was a big year for the SMM Podcast, so we compiled some of the best moments into a single episode. Check it out to hear advice on running, nutrition, and wellness from all 13 of this year's guests.

In this conversation, Hunter Leininger shares his journey into the world of endurance sports, discussing his early experiences, the influence of his family, and the mental toughness required for ultra running. He emphasizes the importance of gratitude and perspective in overcoming challenges, as well as practical tips for runners, including nutrition and gear recommendations. Hunter also highlights the significance of community and generosity in the sport, and reflects on the deeper motivations behind his adventures.

Today on the podcast, we're joined by Arielle Knutson - CEO of Oiselle. Arielle discusses her journey into the running apparel industry, the importance of community in running, and how Oiselle distinguishes itself as a brand by women for women. She shares insights on the emotional connection runners have with their sport, the role of brand identity, and the challenges of building a brand in a competitive market. Arielle also reflects on her personal running experiences and the significance of inclusivity in the running community.

Today on the podcast we spoke to Keira D’Amato - author of Don't Call It a Comeback. In this conversation, Keira shares her journey as a masters runner, reflecting on her achievements, the importance of community, and the balance between family and running. She discusses her motivation for writing her book, the significance of setting personal goals, and the challenges she faced in her running career. Keira emphasizes the value of injury prevention, recovery, and the role of local running stores in fostering a supportive running community. As she looks to the future, she expresses excitement for upcoming races and the ongoing adventure of running.

Today on the podcast, we’re joined by Dirk Friel – Co-Founder of TrainingPeaks. We discussed the evolution of endurance coaching, the importance of individualized training, and the role of coaches in helping athletes achieve their goals. We also explored when amateur athletes should seek professional guidance, the significance of consistency and recovery, and how age impacts training strategies. Dirk emphasizes the need for maintaining intensity, especially for masters athletes, and the balance between strength and endurance training. The discussion also highlights the art and science of coaching, advocating for a growth mindset among athletes. The dialogue also touches on personal insights, favorite sports experiences, and the significance of mentorship in an athlete's journey. We hope you enjoy.

On today's podcast, we're joined by Mark Sisson, founder of Primal Kitchen and the minimalist footwear brand, Peluva. Mark co-founded Peluva with his son Kyle in 2021, seeking to improve upon the limited minimalist footwear options available. By analyzing the successes and failures of past brands, they aimed to develop what they describe as "the most functional, comfortable, and stylish barefoot-inspired shoe ever made." After speaking with Mark for an hour, it's clear he has put considerable thought into the shoe's design, as well as into training and wellness in general. Tune in, because there's a lot to learn in this insightful episode – we hope you enjoy it.

Today on the Podcast, we’re joined by Brett Lato — Manager of Training and Education at Polar. David and Brett discuss the significance of heart rate training and the role of Polar technology in enhancing athletic performance. They delve into the importance of data-driven training, understanding heart rate zones, and the advancements in wearable technology, including the EKG feature in Polar devices. The discussion also covers the measurement of max heart rate, heart rate variability, and the Polar fitness test, emphasizing the need for personalized metrics to optimize training outcomes. Brett also draws on his experience as a coach and organizer of athletics to share with us some “ah-ha” moments that transformed the way he approaches training.

Today on the podcast, we’re joined by Greg McMillan - the founder of McMillan Running and the official training plan partner for Six Minute Mile. David and Greg delve into various aspects of running training, focusing on improving running form, the significance of strides, and the importance of neuromuscular training. They discuss the science behind cardiovascular training, the role of walking, and essential strength training exercises for runners. Additionally, they highlight the importance of hip mobility and provide insights for masters runners on how to adapt their training as they age. In this conversation, Greg and David delve into various aspects of running, focusing on self-care practices post-run, navigating injuries, and the importance of finding specialized care for runners. They discuss heart rate zone training, the development and utility of the Macmillan run calculator, and the nuances of tapering versus peaking for races. Additionally, they highlight common mistakes in marathon training and the significance of mental strategies for race day success.