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

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/for-the-long-run-exploring-the-why-behind-running-242472/how-running-saved-a-veteran-s-life-finding-purpose-in-ultras
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/for-the-long-run-exploring-the-why-behind-running-242472/how-running-saved-a-veteran-s-life-finding-purpose-in-ultras.md
Podcast: [For The Long Run: Exploring the Why Behind Running](https://stenobird.com/podcast/for-the-long-run-exploring-the-why-behind-running-242472)
Published: 2026-02-06T11:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forthelongrun/episodes/How-Running-Saved-a-Veterans-Life-Finding-Purpose-in-Ultras-e3ee9e1
Audio file: https://anchor.fm/s/81032c4/podcast/play/114811777/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fstaging%2F2026-0-31%2F417178727-44100-2-b51b2ed20dbf5.m4a
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/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
Duration seconds: 2958

## Resource

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 .

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