Episode 676: Jenny Simpson on Her Next Chapter, Community, and Life After Elite Racing

In this deeply personal and reflective episode of I'll Have Another with Lindsey Hein Podcast, Olympic and world champion runner Jenny Simpson returns to discuss her transition from elite competition to a new chapter in her life. The conversation unfolds in person at Fleet Feet's headquarters in Carrboro, North Carolina, marking a rare and intimate moment for both hosts. Simpson opens up about the emotional weight of her gold medal win at the 2011 World Championships—her first major title—where she crossed the finish line not with relief, but pure, unfiltered joy. She reflects on the mental discipline required to succeed at the highest level, emphasizing that racing is about knowing your capabilities and pouring everything into the final stretch. The podcast then pivots to her post-retirement adventures: running seven marathons across seven continents in seven days, a journey that launched her into a season of 'yes' and taught her the power of stepping into the unknown. She shares the physical and emotional toll of the Great World Race, the deep bonds formed with fellow runners, and the profound support of her husband Jason during the grueling final marathon in Miami. Following that, she and Jason embarked on a 50-state, 50-week road trip in an RV, visiting running stores, clubs, and communities across America—experiences that deepened her connection to the running world and inspired her new role as Chief Running Officer at Fleet Feet. Simpson discusses how this role allows her to bring an athlete’s lens to community-building, product guidance, and leadership, while also grappling with the shift from being the star to being a steward of the sport. She reflects on aging, identity, and the importance of rest, revealing that her morning runs now serve as a sacred form of mental restoration. Throughout, she emphasizes the universal truths of running—doubt, resilience, community—and how these lessons continue to shape her life beyond the track. The episode closes with a heartfelt message: the best is still ahead.