The Pain Cave Gets Bigger: Jonathan Levitt

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I’m pumped to kick of 2026 with today’s guest, Jonathan Levitt. 

He’s the host of the podcast For The Long Run, a show I’ve listened to for a long time, and recently the creator of Long Run Labs, a collective working to empower other awesome running and endurance podcasts. He’s also someone who likes to play in the start-up and entrepreneurial space in running and health tech.

We cover a lot of fun topics in this episode, including:

• actionable items on building mental toughness by expanding the pain cave and 
• how curiosity has shaped his running and entrepreneurial goals

But one of the things that truly resonated with me is just how much Jonathan embodies the phrase “a rising tide floats all boats” and throughout this conversation you’ll notice the multitude of ways Jonathan has helped elevate the running community.

Connect with Jonathan and learn more:

• The New Blood Era
• Long Run Labs
• Forthelong.run
• Instagram - @jwlevitt // @forthelrpod
• X - @jwlevitt

One thing we talk about is curiosity, and how it can be powerful to do things without knowing the end zone looks like simply because you enjoy the process of doing them. That's a bit how I view the podcast, but as I start year two, I've put a few more carrots for myself that I'd love your help in achieving. Two ways you can support the podcast is simply by sharing episodes you enjoy or subscribing to our substack to stay up to date. The more support, the more we can keep connecting with inspiring guests and helping them share the science and stories of sport.

Connect with us and learn more:

• Endurance and Mental Performance Coaching
• The Cheat Codes To Mental Toughness (mentioned in episode)
• Instagram - @coach_grifjaws
• X - @coach_grifjaws

Until next time, happy training!

PS. Original image for episode artwork credit to Roo Smith!