Run from the Norm

Run from the Norm - Episode 23: Frank McKinney is an Author, Real Estate Artist, Ultra Runner, Philanthro-Capitalist, Renaissance Man, and Tire-Dragging Maniac

In this episode, I sit down with the one and only Frank McKinney—a full-send, purpose-fueled force of nature who’s built $50 million oceanfront mansions, finished 7 Badwater 135s (going for #8 this summer), written 9 books across 8 genres, and constructed 32 self-sustaining villages in Haiti through his Caring House Project.
Frank calls himself a real estate artist.I call him a Renaissance Man on a mission for good.
We dig into:
The importance of personal branding and why you need to be unapologetically and authentically you
Why mono-maniacal focus is a superpower
What it takes to run 135 miles in Death Valley
And why dragging a tire through Florida might be a spiritual experience
🔥 Bonus: This episode is sponsored by us, Run from the Norm!
Use code "FRANK" at runfromthenorm.com for free U.S. shipping, and we’ll also donate 10% of all sales through the end of the month (May 2025) to the Caring House Project.
Come for the madness.Stay for the mission.Leave ready to build something wild.
👉 Learn more about Frank at frank-mckinney.com👉 Grab your gear and support the cause: runfromthenorm.com
 
#runfromthenorm #frankmckinney #badwater #badwater135  #caringhouseproject #ultrarunning #ultramindset #runningpodcast #itstimeforrecess #RFTN

Run from the Norm - Episode 22: Carolyn Garriott and the Arizona Monster 300 - Part 2

In this follow-up to episode 21, Carolyn takes us inside her seven-day journey through the Arizona Monster 300—a brutal ultra that tested every ounce of her strength, patience, and belief. From blistered feet and trail naps to running out of water in the final miles, this is a story about resilience, trust, and the limitless power of the human spirit.
This episode is brought to you by Fleet Feet Treasure Valley—more than a running store, it’s a community built to help you move, pain free.
To explore more stories, blog posts, gear, and all things Run from the Norm, head to runfromthenorm.com.
#ArizonaMonster300 #DestinationTrail #ultrarunning #trailrunning #runfromthenorm #RFTN #itstimeforrecess #ultramarathon #runningpodcast #trailrunningpodcast #runningcommunity #adventurepodcast #trailrunner #enduranceathlete #finishlinefeels

Run from the Norm - Episode 21: From Marin to Montana: Carolyn's Journey of Resilience and Ultra Running Adventures

Never Stop Climbing: A Conversation with Carolyn Garriott
In this episode of the Run from the Norm podcast, we sit down with Carolyn Garriott—a trail runner, mother, and mountain soul who's built a life around resilience, curiosity, and never backing down from the long climb. From her early days in the Marin Headlands to Bozeman’s rugged ridgelines, Carolyn’s story is layered with love, loss, and the kind of hard-won strength that only shows up when life pushes back.
We discuss racing in the dark, parenting through pain, and the peace found on the trail—plus her bold leap into 300-mile ultras at age 62. Carolyn is living proof that it’s never too late to go long, go hard, and return home changed.
🔗 Links & Resources:
🌐 Run from the Norm Website
👟 Fleet Feet Treasure Valley
🦙 Alpacas of Montana
🏃 Copper Kings 100 Ultra in Butte, MT
📲 Listen & Subscribe:
🎧 Apple Podcasts
🎧 Spotify
📢 #RunFromTheNorm #TrailRunning #Ultrarunning #CopperKings100 #AlpacasOfMontana #FleetFeetTreasureValley #PodcastEpisode #TrailRunner #WomenWhoRun #NeverStopClimbing

Run from the Norm - Episode 20: From Lost Luggage to the Appalachian Trail: An Adventure with Austin Reed

Austin Reed joins the podcast for a deep dive into adventure, resilience, and personal growth. From an 80-mile trek on the Appalachian Trail—where he earned the trail name No Gear after losing all his equipment—to scaling Wyoming’s remote Gannett Peak, Austin shares his wildest outdoor experiences. We also explore his journey from small-town Idaho to a career in psychology, his battle with depression, and how running became a life-changing force. With humor, heart, and a few unexpected twists (like an infamous aid station mishap), this episode is packed with inspiration and unforgettable stories.
Want more? Check out our website! Run from the Norm
Please support our partners that support us! Fleet Feet Treasure Valley
#RunFromTheNorm #TrailLife #HikingAdventures #UltraRunning #MountainMiles #OutdoorExploration #KeepMovingForward #NoGearNoProblem #LostAndFound

Run from the Norm - Episode 19 - From Self-Doubt to Empowerment: Kylee's Journey Through Running and Mental Health Advocacy

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

Run from the Norm - Episode 18: Lynette McDougal shares her wisdom from over 20 years of grit, growth, and ultra adventures

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.

Run from the Norm - Episode 17: Leone Rusher on finding balance as a wife, mother, and entrepeneur

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.

Run from the Norm - Episode 16: From addiction and incarceration to finish lines and podiums -- A.K. Whittaker's inspiring tale of redemption"

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.

Run from the Norm - Episode 15: The tables are turned as host Jayk Reynolds becomes the guest.

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.

Run from the Norm- Episode 14: Alex Mimlitz is Inspiring a Community through Authenticity, Servant Leadership, and Hard Work

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!