Half Step Ahead Episode 7: Lenny Diaz

Welcome back to the Pain Cave! For a change of pace, Jason Friedman, ultra runner and coach, is the interviewee. Today we talk about everything from high school and collegiate running to marathon training to coaching and sports medicine! What an interesting life to learn about!

Today we are more than excited to have ASICS tech and sales rep Brendan Wagler on the pod to nerd out about all things shoes! Tune in to learn everything you need to know about running footwear, from trainers to super shoes. Just brace yourself for how many ___blast shoes there are…

Wow, what a year! Today, we kept it chill and just chatted about our respective experiences with high school and collegiate cross country and track, with reflections on each season.

Ever wondered about becoming a brand ambassador? How about a tech rep? Either way, if you are into running, shoes, PE, or anything related, tune in to hear all about Anthony Cawley’s work with the ASICS Sound Mind, Sound Body team and new footwear.

Michael-Luca Natt finds a moment to squeeze in a nice long chat with us within his busy schedule of work, climate change advocacy, and training! He gives insight into the life of a Sunrise Movement NYC leader, organizer of running and advocacy events, and more.

Listen in for a great talk with Lenny Diaz, founder of Speed Endurance Project and Upstate Elite! We go over just about everything in this episode, from training to school to coaching.

SUNY Geneseo Freshman Mario Verruto hops on the pod tonight to discuss the ins and outs of track and cross country college recruitment. Listen in to get a view from the angles of Landon and Mario who have gone through the process of college applications and begun their NCAA careers, and Dylan’s perspective of a high school senior currently in the thick of recruitment and college selection!

Today Lexi joins us to rehash her adventures during the epic triathlon Survival of the Shawangunks 2025! Many valuable stories were told in this episode, whether they be inspirational anecdotes or cautionary tales.

Today we invite Jon Slick to discuss the transition from high school to college running! Jon and Landon go in-depth into the change between their high school teams and running at SUNY Cortland.

After a long day of racing, we sat down for a recap of our most recent adventure, Climb it For Climate! Despite blisters, thistle, and the general exhaustion of recording at 10pm after a 25k, we had a great time and hope you enjoy this second episode of Half Step Ahead.Intro music: “Straight to Hell” by the BloodlettersOutro music: “Drink Your Milk” by What?