October 24, 2025
Sara Hall on Longevity, Mindset, and Finding Joy in the Process
For The Long Run: Exploring the Why Behind RunningAbout this episode
After 21 years as a professional runner, Sara Hall reveals the mental shift that saved her career when she was ready to quit in 2009 - and why she refuses to use the 'grandma emoji' at age 42. Sara Hall is a professional distance runner for ASICS. Her personal best time for the marathon is 2:20:32 set at the Marathon Project in Chandler, Arizona on December 22, 2020, making her the third-fastest American woman in history. She is the second-fastest American woman ever to run the half marathon, running 1:07:15 on January 16, 2022–an American record at the time. Jon chats with Sara about: her 21-year professional running career having an identity beyond athletics training experiences in Ethiopia and lessons learned humanitarian work focusing on extreme poverty and the orphan crisis in Ethiopia what’s next after her running career and how to transition to the next chapter Stay connected: Follow Sara: https://www.instagram.com/sarahall3/ This episode is supported by: Eternal: This episode is sponsored by Eternal: a science-backed, preventative health company offering integrated primary care, advanced testing, and personalized health planning for active people. Whether you’re chasing a PR, recovering from injury, or simply optimizing long-term health, Eternal gives you the full picture and a plan of action. AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at amazfit.com and use code “FTLR” for 10% off. Janji: Use code “FTLR” at checkout when shopping at janji.com for 10% off your order and see why Janji is the go-to for runners who want performance gear made to explore. All apparel is backed by a 5 year guarantee, so you know it’s meant to last! Visit Leadville: So you think you know Leadville? Lake County has so much more to offer year-round than just the 100 miler in the summer. If you’re thinking of getting away, highly recommend booking a trip to Leadville to get up into the mountains, eat yummy food, and play outside. Check out more of what Leadville has to offer here!