On today’s episode of Just In Stride, we’re joined by Mélanie DesAutels, two-time winner of the Marathon Beneva de Montréal and one of Canada’s rising marathon talents.

Mélanie has steadily improved her times while balancing training, school, and life, recently winning Montréal in 2:46:16. Her story is one of focus and consistency, from training blocks at home to summers spent running in Kenya.

In this episode, Mélanie shares what it’s like to defend a marathon title, stay motivated through setbacks, and chase the next level of performance.

This episode was presented by @xactnutrition [https://www.instagram.com/xactnutrition/?hl=en]. See below for their exclusive offer 👇🏼

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Offer from Xact Nutrition [https://www.xactnutrition.com/]: This episode is presented by our friends at Xact Nutrition and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code JUSTINSTRIDE. So head to xactnutrition.com [https://www.xactnutrition.com/] and fuel your goals today! Now shipping in Canada and the U.S.

Offer from Lagoon [https://lagoonsleep.com/STRIDE/] : This episode is also brought to you by Lagoon sleep pillow and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code STRIDE. Mininum purchase of $74 USD required. Limited to one use per customer.

Thanks for tuning in to the Just In Stride Podcast. I truly appreciate you taking the time to listen and I hope you enjoyed that conversation as much as I did. Please take a minute after this to rate and review our show on Apple Podcasts. With your feedback we’ll be able to make the show even better and it’ll help us reach new listeners too. You can also find us on Instagram @justinstridepod [https://www.instagram.com/justinstridepod/] and YouTube @justinstridepod [https://www.youtube.com/@justinstridepod/shorts]for all the latest episodes and updates.   Glad you came along for the ride with Just In Stride!

Melanie DesAutels on preparing in Kenya for the Berlin Marathon, winning and defending her title at the Beneva Montreal Marathon, her steady rise in the sport, balancing athletics and life, finding success and staying humble

On today’s episode of Just In Stride, we’re joined by Kevin Thoma, a dedicated marathoner, community builder, and driving force within the On Running family. Kevin is the co-founder of 612run and has played an instrumental role in fostering a culture where athletes of all levels feel inspired and connected.

His story took an unexpected turn in 2017, when a serious car accident left his running future uncertain. But Kevin refused to let go of a dream he shared with his father: completing all six World Marathon Majors together. That vision carried him through recovery and ultimately to the coveted Six Star medal, a milestone that represents not just personal achievement but also family and perseverance.

Now, as a Community Architect at On, Kevin channels his passion into helping others chase their goals. His path reminds us that running is about more than races and medals—it’s about community, resilience, and the bonds that keep us moving forward.

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Offer from Xact Nutrition [https://www.xactnutrition.com/]: This episode is presented by our friends at Xact Nutrition and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code JUSTINSTRIDE. So head to xactnutrition.com [https://www.xactnutrition.com/] and fuel your goals today! Now shipping in Canada and the U.S.

Offer from Lagoon [https://lagoonsleep.com/STRIDE/] : This episode is also brought to you by Lagoon sleep pillow and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code STRIDE. Mininum purchase of $74 USD required. Limited to one use per customer.

Thanks for tuning in to the Just In Stride Podcast. I truly appreciate you taking the time to listen and I hope you enjoyed that conversation as much as I did. Please take a minute after this to rate and review our show on Apple Podcasts. With your feedback we’ll be able to make the show even better and it’ll help us reach new listeners too. You can also find us on Instagram @justinstridepod [https://www.instagram.com/justinstridepod/] and YouTube @justinstridepod [https://www.youtube.com/@justinstridepod/shorts]for all the latest episodes and updates.   Glad you came along for the ride with Just In Stride!

Kevin Thoma on Overcoming a Life-Changing Accident, Running All Six World Marathon Majors With His Father, and Building Community With On

On today’s episode of Just In Stride, we welcome Ruedi Wild, a Swiss triathlete whose career has spanned the highest levels of competition. From toeing the line at the Olympics to racing on the world stage, Ruedi has built a reputation as both a fierce competitor and a thoughtful student of the sport.

In recent years, his focus has shifted toward understanding performance from the inside out. A key discovery around nutrition and sweat rate transformed not only his racing but also his outlook on training and recovery. It’s insights like these that Ruedi now shares with athletes looking to get the most out of themselves.

With decades of experience and a perspective shaped by both triumphs and challenges, Ruedi offers valuable lessons on what it takes to push limits and continue evolving as an athlete.

More on Ruedi:
-Ruedi Wild https://www.instagram.com/ruediwild/
-TriWild https://www.instagram.com/triwild_sweattest/

Ruedi is offering you 20 CHF / 20 EURO OFF the sweat test by visiting www.sweat-test.com [http://www.sweat-test.com/]
and entering code: Justinstride20
Offer valid until end of October 2025

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Offer from Xact Nutrition [https://www.xactnutrition.com/]: This episode is presented by our friends at Xact Nutrition and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code JUSTINSTRIDE. So head to xactnutrition.com [https://www.xactnutrition.com/] and fuel your goals today! Now shipping in Canada and the U.S.

Offer from Lagoon [https://lagoonsleep.com/STRIDE/] : This episode is also brought to you by Lagoon sleep pillow and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code STRIDE. Mininum purchase of $74 USD required. Limited to one use per customer.

Thanks for tuning in to the Just In Stride Podcast. I truly appreciate you taking the time to listen and I hope you enjoyed that conversation as much as I did. Please take a minute after this to rate and review our show on Apple Podcasts. With your feedback we’ll be able to make the show even better and it’ll help us reach new listeners too. You can also find us on Instagram @justinstridepod [https://www.instagram.com/justinstridepod/] and YouTube @justinstridepod [https://www.youtube.com/@justinstridepod/shorts]for all the latest episodes and updates.   Glad you came along for the ride with Just In Stride!

Ruedi Wild on Life as a Professional Triathlete, Lessons From the World Stage, and Redefining Performance

On today’s episode of Just In Stride, we sit down with elite cyclist and Xact Nutrition representative Nick Kleban to talk all things TransRockies Gravel Royale. Known for tackling some of the toughest gravel courses with a calm head and strong legs, Nick brings a wealth of firsthand experience to one of North America’s most scenic and demanding gravel events.

From breaking down the 3-day stage race and what riders can expect on each leg, to the critical role nutrition plays in sustaining performance, Nick shares practical strategies any cyclist can apply. We cover fueling tips, race-day preparation, and the community-building extras like the pre-event shakeout ride and evening seminar.

Whether you’re lining up for your first Gravel Royale or chasing a new personal best in stage racing, this conversation offers an inside look at the planning, mindset, and excitement that goes into riding through the heart of the Rockies.

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Offer from Xact Nutrition [https://www.xactnutrition.com/]: This episode is presented by our friends at Xact Nutrition and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code JUSTINSTRIDE. So head to xactnutrition.com [https://www.xactnutrition.com/] and fuel your goals today! Now shipping in Canada and the U.S.

Offer from Lagoon [https://lagoonsleep.com/STRIDE/] : This episode is also brought to you by Lagoon sleep pillow and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code STRIDE. Mininum purchase of $74 USD required. Limited to one use per customer.

Thanks for tuning in to the Just In Stride Podcast. I truly appreciate you taking the time to listen and I hope you enjoyed that conversation as much as I did. Please take a minute after this to rate and review our show on Apple Podcasts. With your feedback we’ll be able to make the show even better and it’ll help us reach new listeners too. You can also find us on Instagram @justinstridepod [https://www.instagram.com/justinstridepod/] and YouTube @justinstridepod [https://www.youtube.com/@justinstridepod/shorts]for all the latest episodes and updates.   Glad you came along for the ride with Just In Stride!

Community Spotlight by Xact: TransRockies Gravel Royale Race Weekend Breakdown with Nick Kleban, Race strategy, Fueling Strategy, Shake out ride, Xact Nutrition Seminar, Tips and Tricks from a pro

On today’s episode of Just In Stride, we’re joined by Valentin Poncelet, a Belgian long-distance runner who consistently tops global leaderboards. Most recently, he finished 4th worldwide at the Wings for Life World Run in Breda, covering an astounding 67.4 km—and placed 1st locally, setting records and inspiring others.

Valentin isn’t just focused on results; he’s passionate about using his platform to support others—running events to raise funds for spinal cord research and guiding visually impaired athletes in marathon events . His races tell a story of endurance, purpose, and giving back, both on the roads and behind the scenes.

In this episode, Valentin dives into the grit behind his standout performances, how his involvement in charity and coaching shapes his perspective, and what drives him to keep pushing the limits. Expect plenty of insight into what it takes to run far—for yourself and for others.

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Offer from Xact Nutrition [https://www.xactnutrition.com/]: This episode is presented by our friends at Xact Nutrition and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code JUSTINSTRIDE. So head to xactnutrition.com [https://www.xactnutrition.com/] and fuel your goals today! Now shipping in Canada and the U.S.

Offer from Lagoon [https://lagoonsleep.com/STRIDE/] : This episode is also brought to you by Lagoon sleep pillow and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code STRIDE. Mininum purchase of $74 USD required. Limited to one use per customer.

Thanks for tuning in to the Just In Stride Podcast. I truly appreciate you taking the time to listen and I hope you enjoyed that conversation as much as I did. Please take a minute after this to rate and review our show on Apple Podcasts. With your feedback we’ll be able to make the show even better and it’ll help us reach new listeners too. You can also find us on Instagram @justinstridepod [https://www.instagram.com/justinstridepod/] and YouTube @justinstridepod [https://www.youtube.com/@justinstridepod/shorts]for all the latest episodes and updates.   Glad you came along for the ride with Just In Stride!

Valentin Poncelet on his Wings for Life performance, growing in endurance sports, paying it forward, guiding in the special olympics

On today’s episode of Just In Stride, we’re joined by Swiss triathlete Alissa König, a standout competitor in short-course racing and a dedicated member of the Swiss national team. Alissa discovered triathlon at a young age and quickly embraced the sport's complexity and intensity.

Since then, she has represented Switzerland on the international stage, including a national title in the sprint distance and appearances at major European and World Triathlon events. Alissa approaches the sport with precision and purpose, continually refining her performance across all three disciplines.

In this episode, she shares her journey through triathlon, the challenges of elite competition, and her aspirations for the future. Whether racing internationally or recharging back home, Alissa moves through it all with clarity, purpose, and a deep love for the sport.

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Offer from Xact Nutrition [https://www.xactnutrition.com/]: This episode is presented by our friends at Xact Nutrition and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code JUSTINSTRIDE. So head to xactnutrition.com [https://www.xactnutrition.com/] and fuel your goals today! Now shipping in Canada and the U.S.

Offer from Lagoon [https://lagoonsleep.com/STRIDE/] : This episode is also brought to you by Lagoon sleep pillow and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code STRIDE. Mininum purchase of $74 USD required. Limited to one use per customer.

Thanks for tuning in to the Just In Stride Podcast. I truly appreciate you taking the time to listen and I hope you enjoyed that conversation as much as I did. Please take a minute after this to rate and review our show on Apple Podcasts. With your feedback we’ll be able to make the show even better and it’ll help us reach new listeners too. You can also find us on Instagram @justinstridepod [https://www.instagram.com/justinstridepod/] and YouTube @justinstridepod [https://www.youtube.com/@justinstridepod/shorts]for all the latest episodes and updates.   Glad you came along for the ride with Just In Stride!

Alissa König living and training in Spain, battling through injury, Olympic dream, lessons to become a better athlete, changing coaches, change of scenery to improve mindset, working with a team, being the best version of herself, love of baking and family time

On today’s episode of Just In Stride, we’re joined by Ben Mumme, an endurance athlete, content creator, and host of the Living Your Greatness podcast. Through his own athletic journey and conversations with high performers, Ben explores what it takes to push limits, develop resilience, and build a mindset for success—both in sport and in life.

As a passionate advocate for self-improvement, Ben uses his platform to inspire others to chase their potential. Whether through endurance challenges, personal growth strategies, or deep conversations with experts, he’s always looking for ways to help others unlock their greatness.

In this episode, Ben shares his own evolution as an athlete, what he’s learned from hosting Living Your Greatness, and how endurance sports have shaped his outlook on discipline, mindset, and personal growth. His story is a great reminder that success isn’t about talent alone—it’s about showing up, putting in the work, and striving to be just a little better every day.

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Offer from Xact Nutrition [https://www.xactnutrition.com/]: This episode is presented by our friends at Xact Nutrition and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code JUSTINSTRIDE. So head to xactnutrition.com [https://www.xactnutrition.com/] and fuel your goals today! Now shipping in Canada and the U.S.

Offer from Lagoon [https://lagoonsleep.com/STRIDE/] : This episode is also brought to you by Lagoon sleep pillow and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code STRIDE. Mininum purchase of $74 USD required. Limited to one use per customer.

Thanks for tuning in to the Just In Stride Podcast. I truly appreciate you taking the time to listen and I hope you enjoyed that conversation as much as I did. Please take a minute after this to rate and review our show on Apple Podcasts. With your feedback we’ll be able to make the show even better and it’ll help us reach new listeners too. You can also find us on Instagram @justinstridepod [https://www.instagram.com/justinstridepod/] and YouTube @justinstridepod [https://www.youtube.com/@justinstridepod/shorts]for all the latest episodes and updates.   Glad you came along for the ride with Just In Stride!

Ben Mumme on personal growth and self improvement, strides as an athlete, joining the run community, building his own podcast and the keys to unlocking your greatness

On today’s episode of Just In Stride, we’re joined by Justin Pfefferle, a coach, educator, and former athlete whose impact on Canadian distance running continues to grow. Originally from Saskatoon and now based in Montreal, Justin has dedicated himself to developing the next generation of athletes, blending his passion for running with a deep commitment to mentorship and education.

As the head coach of Concordia University Stingers and co-head of Dawson College Blues cross-country, Justin has played a key role in shaping competitive collegiate programs. His background as a former athlete, combined with his experience as a longtime educator, gives him a unique approach to coaching—one that prioritizes not just performance but also personal growth and resilience.

In this episode, Justin shares how his own journey in the sport has influenced his coaching philosophy, the challenges and rewards of working with student-athletes, and his vision for the future of distance running in Canada. His story is a great example of how running can shape both individuals and the communities around them.

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Offer from Xact Nutrition [https://www.xactnutrition.com/]: This episode is presented by our friends at Xact Nutrition and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code JUSTINSTRIDE. So head to xactnutrition.com [https://www.xactnutrition.com/] and fuel your goals today! Now shipping in Canada and the U.S.

Offer from Lagoon [https://lagoonsleep.com/STRIDE/] : This episode is also brought to you by Lagoon sleep pillow and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code STRIDE. Mininum purchase of $74 USD required. Limited to one use per customer.

Thanks for tuning in to the Just In Stride Podcast. I truly appreciate you taking the time to listen and I hope you enjoyed that conversation as much as I did. Please take a minute after this to rate and review our show on Apple Podcasts. With your feedback we’ll be able to make the show even better and it’ll help us reach new listeners too. You can also find us on Instagram @justinstridepod [https://www.instagram.com/justinstridepod/] and YouTube @justinstridepod [https://www.youtube.com/@justinstridepod/shorts]for all the latest episodes and updates.   Glad you came along for the ride with Just In Stride!

Justin Pfefferle on his journey through running and education, learnings from mentors, coaching philosophy's, knowledge, running, team building, cross country, track and field

On today’s episode of Just In Stride, we’re joined by Drew Hunter, a record-breaking distance runner, co-founder of Tinman Elite, and coach at Hammer and Axe Training. From his historic high school performances to his professional career, Drew has continuously pushed the limits of what’s possible in distance running.

Beyond his achievements on the track, Drew is also balancing life as a husband and father while pursuing his biggest goal yet—making the next Olympic team. Recently, he made a significant career move by signing with a new sponsor, marking an exciting new chapter in both his athletic and personal journey.

In this episode, Drew shares his thoughts on this transition, how he approaches coaching and training, and what it takes to juggle elite competition with family life. His story is a testament to dedication, adaptability, and the ever-evolving pursuit of excellence.

Hammer & Axe Training (@hammerandaxetraining) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/hammerandaxetraining/]
Drew Hunter (@drewhunter00) • Instagram photos and videos [https://www.instagram.com/drewhunter00/]

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Offer from Xact Nutrition [https://www.xactnutrition.com/]: This episode is presented by our friends at Xact Nutrition and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code JUSTINSTRIDE. So head to xactnutrition.com [https://www.xactnutrition.com/] and fuel your goals today! Now shipping in Canada and the U.S.

Thanks for tuning in to the Just In Stride Podcast. I truly appreciate you taking the time to listen and I hope you enjoyed that conversation as much as I did. Please take a minute after this to rate and review our show on Apple Podcasts. With your feedback we’ll be able to make the show even better and it’ll help us reach new listeners too. You can also find us on Instagram @justinstridepod [https://www.instagram.com/justinstridepod/] and YouTube @justinstridepod [https://www.youtube.com/@justinstridepod/shorts]for all the latest episodes and updates.   Glad you came along for the ride with Just In Stride!


Drew Hunter on his pursuit of the Olympics in Los Angeles, Family balance, coaching Hammer and Axe, personal growth, changing sponsors after 10years, triumphs and challenges of the sport, what it means to be a professional runnerOn today’s episode of Just In Stride, we’re joined by Drew Hunter, a record-breaking distance runner, co-founder of Tinman Elite, and coach at Hammer and Axe Training. From his historic high school performances to his professional career, Drew has continuously pushed the limits of what’s possible in distance running. Beyond his achievements on the track, Drew is also balancing life as a husband and father while pursuing his biggest goal yet—making the next Olympic team. Recently, he made a significant career move by signing with a new sponsor, marking an exciting new chapter in both his athletic and personal journey. In this episode, Drew shares his thoughts on this transition, how he approaches coaching and training, and what it takes to juggle elite competition with family life. His story is a testament to dedication, adaptability, and the ever-evolving pursuit of excellence.

On today’s episode of Just In Stride, we’re joined by Elissa Legault, an elite long-distance runner and coach at Leggo Coaching. With standout performances on the roads, she has proven herself as a fierce competitor while also helping others chase their own running goals.

Elissa’s journey hasn’t been without setbacks. After dealing with a tough injury, she had to step away from competition, navigate the challenges of recovery, and rebuild both physically and mentally. Now, she’s back stronger than ever, using her experiences to not only elevate her own racing but to guide the athletes she coaches.

In this episode, Elissa shares the lessons she’s learned from injury, how coaching has shaped her perspective on the sport, and what’s next for her as both an athlete and mentor. Her story is an honest look at perseverance, patience, and the process of coming back better than before.

Links:
Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elissalegault/]
LegGO Coaching | Running Plan [https://www.leggocoaching.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaa3vGlngAuj_GL8JqG0U9erPPNK8NMEE65FCkgzNelrUQ8j5zN16g_n42U_aem_5KjCWnoiBplMiFDiUSA_AA]

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Offer from Xact Nutrition [https://www.xactnutrition.com/]: This episode is presented by our friends at Xact Nutrition and they are offering you 15% OFF your order when you use the code JUSTINSTRIDE. So head to xactnutrition.com [https://www.xactnutrition.com/] and fuel your goals today! Now shipping in Canada and the U.S.

Thanks for tuning in to the Just In Stride Podcast. I truly appreciate you taking the time to listen and I hope you enjoyed that conversation as much as I did. Please take a minute after this to rate and review our show on Apple Podcasts. With your feedback we’ll be able to make the show even better and it’ll help us reach new listeners too. You can also find us on Instagram @justinstridepod [https://www.instagram.com/justinstridepod/] and YouTube @justinstridepod [https://www.youtube.com/@justinstridepod/shorts]for all the latest episodes and updates.   Glad you came along for the ride with Just In Stride!

Elissa Legault on her tremendous rise as a Canadian Marathoner, building herself back up after a length injury, her evolution as a Coach at LegGo Coaching, the mental struggle of taking a step back from the sport, her mindset after her first race back in Vancouver, rehab and recovery tricks

Welcome to the Just In Stride Podcast, I’m your host Justin Pugliese.

If you love endurance sports you’ve definitely come to the right place.

On this show we’ll talk to athletes, coaches and professionals who can help us reach our true potential.

Being a student of distance running for over 10 years and interviewing people in the sport for the last 5, I’ve learnt a ton but there’s always more to discover.

Everyone has a story and I know you’ll resonate with each of our guests, as we embark on this journey together.

Join us at home, on the road or while you run, together we’ll have some fun.

So follow along on Instagram @justinstridepod and your favorite podcast platform, and prepare to be inspired.

Come along for the ride with Just In Stride!

Justin Pugliese

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