Episode 681: Rachel Smith on Chasing Longer Distances, Motherhood, and Finding Joy in the Process

Rachel Smith returns to the podcast fresh off a standout performance at the B.A.A. 5K, where she finished second overall and was the first American woman across the line. A 2020 Olympian in the 5,000m, Rachel is now navigating a new season of life as both a professional runner and a mom of two young daughters.

In this conversation, Rachel shares how her relationship with running has evolved, what it looks like to balance elite training with motherhood, and why she’s been drawn toward road racing in this chapter of her career. She reflects on shifting priorities, redefining success, and what’s next as she considers stepping up to the marathon distance.

Rachel also opens up about the realities of training in a different season of life, the importance of community in Flagstaff, and how she’s approaching racing with a fresh perspective. It’s a thoughtful, honest look at growth, identity, and staying connected to the sport in a way that feels meaningful.

What we talked about:

Returning to racing and B.A.A. 5K performance
Growing up around the Boston Marathon and its significance
Learning how to race on the roads vs. track racing
Transitioning from track to road racing
Becoming a mother and shifting life priorities
Training and competing while raising two young kids
Redefining success and not comparing to past versions of herself
Considering a marathon debut and learning fueling strategies
Life in Flagstaff and the professional running community
Family, relationships, and what matters most beyond running
Interest in trail running and ultramarathons
Perspective on long-term career fulfillment and curiosity in sport

Media Mentioned: 

For the Love of the Grind by Sara Hall

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