#721 - The Captivating Journey of Josh Lerch: A 2:30 Marathon, and 6 min PR, at Age 43
Fri Feb 06 2026
Join me as I chat with Josh Lerch, whose running journey is both inspiring and unconventional - and lead him to a 2:30 marathon, and 6 minute PR, at Surf City last weekend.
Starting in Michigan, Josh unexpectedly found his passion for cross country, learning crucial lessons from a memorable bonk at the state meet when going after one of the best runners of our generation. It's a story you won't want to miss!
His path led him through college challenges and into the vibrant New York City running scene, where he rekindled his love for the sport.
Life took another turn as Josh moved to California, discovering trail running and surfing, which reshaped his relationship with running. He shares how career changes and life transitions influenced his athletic pursuits, emphasizing adaptability and joy in the journey. Josh's approach to nutrition, training, and mental resilience in marathons and ultramarathons offers valuable insights.
A key theme is the role of relationships, coaching, and goal-setting in his evolution as a runner. Josh candidly discusses overcoming setbacks, including postpartum depression, and finding renewed purpose. His future plans are ambitious, with high-speed track races and trail adventures ahead.
Sponsors
Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com.
Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Join me as I chat with Josh Lerch, whose running journey is both inspiring and unconventional - and lead him to a 2:30 marathon, and 6 minute PR, at Surf City last weekend. Starting in Michigan, Josh unexpectedly found his passion for cross country, learning crucial lessons from a memorable bonk at the state meet when going after one of the best runners of our generation. It's a story you won't want to miss! His path led him through college challenges and into the vibrant New York City running scene, where he rekindled his love for the sport. Life took another turn as Josh moved to California, discovering trail running and surfing, which reshaped his relationship with running. He shares how career changes and life transitions influenced his athletic pursuits, emphasizing adaptability and joy in the journey. Josh's approach to nutrition, training, and mental resilience in marathons and ultramarathons offers valuable insights. A key theme is the role of relationships, coaching, and goal-setting in his evolution as a runner. Josh candidly discusses overcoming setbacks, including postpartum depression, and finding renewed purpose. His future plans are ambitious, with high-speed track races and trail adventures ahead. Sponsors Mount to Coast - Explore the H1, one the most critically acclaimed running shoes of the past year, and all of its road or trail glory, at www.mounttocoast.com. Amazfit - The GPS running watch I trust is Amazfit. It is loaded with features, top tier GPS technology, and is incredibly well-priced. Go to http://bit.ly/47AOxzW for more and use code RAMBLING to save 10%. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices