In this episode of the Run from the Norm podcast, we sit down with Kylee Wiscombe, a trailblazer in building community and mental health advocacy. Kylee shares her journey from struggling to run a mile to completing marathons, all while navigating the challenges of bipolar disorder. Through movement and connection, she found strength and purpose, leading her to create Gr8ter, a nonprofit dedicated to mental health recovery and suicide prevention.

We dive into the origins of Trail Fridays, an empowering running group fostering resilience and belonging, and Top of Tamarack, an event that challenges participants to push their limits while raising awareness for mental health. Kylee’s story is one of perseverance, breaking stigmas, and using movement to heal not just herself, but an entire community.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the power of embracing challenges, supporting one another, and redefining what success really means.

This episode is sponsored by Fleet Feet Treasure Valley – your go-to running store in Meridian and Nampa. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just getting started, Fleet Feet’s expert team ensures you have the right gear to keep moving. Stop by and tell them Jayk from Run from the Norm sent you! Learn more: Fleet Feet Treasure Valley

#RunfromtheNorm #MentalHealthMatters #Gr8ter #FleetFeetTreasureValley #KeepMovingforward #runningpodcast

In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Lynette McDougal, a seasoned ultra-runner with over 20 years of experience on the trails. Lynette shares her remarkable adventures on the trails, including completing legendary races like the Bigfoot 200, Fat Dog 120, and Grand Canyon Ultras, to name a few. Her story is one of resilience, transformation, and a deep love for the running community. From overcoming self-doubt to embracing the highs and lows of ultrarunning, Lynette embodies the true spirit of enduring challenges and celebrating victories.

This episode isn't just about running miles; it's about self-discovery and embracing the pure joy of the outdoors. Lynette's passion for the sport extends beyond personal achievement to giving back as a volunteer and mentor in the ultrarunning scene. Join us for a conversation about pushing through limits, finding strength through community, and cherishing the unforgettable moments found on the trail.

In this episode of the Run from the Norm podcast, host Jayk Reynolds sits down with Leone Rusher, the inspiring owner of Idaho Running Company. Leone shares her journey from growing up in the small logging town of Chawela, Washington, to becoming a dedicated business owner, wife, and mother of three dynamic kids. Discover how running became a source of sanity and balance for Leone as she navigated motherhood and eventually took over the business from its founder, Mike Shuman.

The episode also celebrates a special milestone as the podcast's first sponsored episode, with Idaho Running Company offering listeners a generous 10% discount on new shoes. Tune in to hear Leone's reflections on maintaining community ties, promoting mental health through movement, and her invaluable insights into running and entrepreneurship.

Listeners can learn more about the offer and the store at IdahoRunningCompany.com or by visiting their location in Boise. Join Leone and Jayk as they explore the satisfying blend of running, family, and business leadership.

Welcome to the first episode of the Run from the Norm podcast in 2025. Join host Jayk Reynolds as he delves into the remarkable life of Ashley Kate Whittaker, affectionately known as A.K. to her family and friends. A.K.'s journey from a stand out high school student to drug addiction and incarceration is a story that feels like it could be straight out of a Hollywood script. Yet, her tale doesn't end there; it is one of transformation, embodying the mantra 'Be The Change' that has helped shape the person that A.K. has become today.

Now a devoted mother to two young sons, a successful strength and run coach, and a training program coordinator for Fleet Feet Meridian and Nampa, A.K. has turned her passion for fitness and running into a mission of service to others. Her resilience shines as she not only conquers marathons but also extends a lifeline to those in situations she once found herself in.

Prepare for an unfiltered conversation that navigates the themes of hitting rock bottom, finding redemption through fitness, and the power of second chances. This is an episode filled with raw honesty and inspiration, promising to touch the heart of anyone who tunes in.

Step into an intimate conversation as the tables turn on "Run from the Norm" - this week, host Jayk Reynolds takes the guest seat while mentor and friend Sid Sullivan guides us through a deeply personal journey. From Jayk's formative years as a child to his evolution as an ultra trail runner and musician, this episode peels back the layers of a life shaped by movement and melody.

Hear the story of an unexpected encounter with a young deer on a mountain trail that captures Jayk's gentle spirit and connection to nature. Follow along as he recounts his epic adventures, including epic solo runs from Twin Falls to Boise and from McCall to Boise that tested his limits and revealed his character.

In this candid discussion, Jayk opens up about the transformative power of family bonds, meaningful relationships, and the guiding light of mentorship through life's challenges. Discover how the parallel paths of music and running became more than just passions - they emerged as powerful vessels for healing and self-discovery.

This episode is a testament to the human spirit, weaving together themes of resilience, introspection, and the simple yet profound act of putting one foot in front of the other. Whether you're a runner, music lover, or simply seeking inspiration, this conversation reminds us that every journey begins with a single step forward.

Join us for an inspiring episode of the Run from the Norm podcast as we sit down with Alex Mimlitz, owner of Fleet Feet Meridian and Fleet Feet Nampa. In this engaging conversation, Alex shares his journey from growing up in Elmhurst, Illinois, to becoming a community leader in the running industry. Discover how a childhood rejection led him to find confidence and community through running, and how these experiences have influenced his business philosophy today.

Explore the importance of local specialty stores in fostering running communities and the unique challenges faced by Fleet Feet as it strives to create a supportive environment for runners of all levels. Learn about Winter Warriors, the Boise Front Trail Runs, and the Tree City Track Club, and how these initiatives are connecting and inspiring runners throughout the Treasure Valley.

With themes of servant leadership and authenticity, this episode is not only a story of personal growth but also a testament to the power of community in transforming lives. Tune in and be inspired to Run from the Norm!

In this inspiring episode of the Run From The Norm podcast, host Jayk Reynolds welcomes back Dan Button, a passionate runner whose journey took an unexpected turn. Originally focused on the 2025 World Trail Running Championships, Dan found himself competing in the 2024 World Skyrunning Championships as part of Team USA. Listen as Dan shares the thrilling experience of tackling the unique challenges of skyrunning, from navigating off-trail scrambles to competing against world-class athletes.

Jayk and Dan also discuss the foundation of Tree City Track Club, a new running organization dedicated to building a stronger community through running. The club's mission is to help individuals become better runners and, in turn, better people. The conversation highlights Dan's commitment to service, adventure, and community building, supported by his wife Sumner, a competitive athlete herself.

Tune in for a conversation filled with motivation, insights into the world of skyrunning, and the transformative power of community-focused running. Join Jayk and Dan as they encourage listeners to embrace life's twists and turns with an open mind and a spirit of adventure.

I'm joined by my longtime friend and adventure partner, Ryan Anderson.

Known for his unique approach to outdoor adventures, Ryan takes us into his inspiring running journey, remarkable weight loss story, and the deeply emotional battle his family faced during his daughter Hannah's life-threatening medical emergency.

Get ready for an episode filled with adventure, resilience, and heart.

Tune in, enjoy the conversation, and run from the norm!