Episode

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

Podcast
For The Long Run: Exploring the Why Behind Running
Published
Feb 6, 2026
Duration seconds
2958
Processing state
not_requested
Canonical source
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forthelongrun/episodes/How-Running-Saved-a-Veterans-Life-Finding-Purpose-in-Ultras-e3ee9e1
Audio
https://anchor.fm/s/81032c4/podcast/play/114811777/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fstaging%2F2026-0-31%2F417178727-44100-2-b51b2ed20dbf5.m4a
JSON
/v1/public/podcasts/for-the-long-run-exploring-the-why-behind-running-242472/episodes/how-running-saved-a-veteran-s-life-finding-purpose-in-ultras
Markdown
/podcast/for-the-long-run-exploring-the-why-behind-running-242472/how-running-saved-a-veteran-s-life-finding-purpose-in-ultras.md

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Summary

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 escape His military background influencing mental health journey What inspired developing a consistent running habit The trail running community Building ultramarathon goals Stay 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=1000676194617 This 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 .