I was so happy to welcome Amanda Vestri back on the show! She’s one of my favorite athletes to follow—and one of the sweetest people—and I’m thrilled to watch her make her marathon debut this fall at the New York City Marathon. In this episode, Amanda shares the behind-the-scenes journey that led to this moment: from the disappointment of the canceled World Half Marathon Championships to choosing New York over Chicago for her debut, and how she’s embracing the challenge of the unknown.
We talk about what it’s been like closing the chapter with ZAP Endurance (her training group), navigating training without a permanent team, fueling and long runs, and how the marathon is already helping her grow as an athlete. Amanda opens up about her strengths and struggles, what she’s still chasing on the track, and how she’s approaching this next step with a mindset of curiosity and joy.
If you’re a fan of process-oriented training, women’s distance running, or just rooting for good people doing big things, this one’s for you. Follow Amanda on Instagram at @a_vestri and follow me at @lindseyhein626.
Topics we cover:
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Amanda’s decision to debut the marathon at NYC
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The cancelation of the World Half Marathon Championships
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Closing the ZAP Endurance chapter
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Training solo and finding support
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Long runs, fueling, and race prep
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Watching Team USA women at Worlds
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Championship vs. time trial racing styles
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Her future goals on the track (including breaking 15:00!)
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Finding confidence through half marathons and road races
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Running as a lifelong practice, not just for competition
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Book talk and Ellen Hildebrand obsessions
What Amanda’s loving lately:
📚 Welcome to the Beach Town by Susan Wiggs
📚 Anything by Elin Hilderbrand
📚 Lindsey recommends: Nora Goes Off Script and Summer Romance by Annabel Monahan
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Check out Lindsey Hein’s training plans!
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