Episode 602: Jake Prusha
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In this 602nd episode of The Running Public, host Kirk DeWint sits down with Jake Prusha, a recently retired Coast Guard veteran and wellness entrepreneur, to discuss his journey from emergency services to military service, and now to a bold new mission: running 10 miles every day for 50 consecutive days across Massachusetts to raise awareness and funds for military mental health. Jake shares his personal struggles with anxiety, the emotional toll of being disqualified from becoming a rescue swimmer due to low platelets, and how that experience fueled his passion for helping others. He recounts his transformative first Ironman completion and his viral 100-day MRF challenge with a 30-pound vest, which raised $21,000 for the Wounded Warrior Project. Now, he’s launching a nationwide 50-day running initiative, honoring a veteran or active-duty service member from each state who has battled mental health issues or died by suicide. Through storytelling, community engagement, and raw vulnerability, Jake aims to break the stigma around mental health in the military and inspire others to show up for themselves, even when life feels imperfect. The episode blends personal narrative with practical inspiration, underscoring the power of consistency, community, and purpose-driven action.
Mental health stigma in the military remains a major barrier to seeking help, especially for those fearing job loss or loss of benefits.
Small, consistent actions—like running 10 miles daily—can create massive impact when tied to a meaningful mission.
Vulnerability is not weakness; sharing your story can be a powerful tool for connection and healing.
Community and shared experience—like running with others, even virtually—can combat isolation and build resilience.
You don’t need perfect training, gear, or timing to start—just the courage to begin and show up.
Welcome & Background: From Dispatcher to Coast Guard Veteran
Kirk welcomes Jake Prusha, a recently retired Coast Guard veteran, and begins with a light-hearted exchange about episode numbers and email mishaps. Jake shares his journey from being a 911 dispatcher in New Jersey to joining the Coast Guard, driven by a passion for emergency services and a dream of becoming a rescue swimmer.
The Disqualification & Pivot: From Rescue Swimmer to Medic
“It wasn't just the changing direction, figuring out a career, but just kind of the loss of that group of friends that now we were connected over this job.”
Mental Health & Purpose: The Roots of His Mission
“If I can't help myself, at least maybe I can help someone else.”
The Ironman & The 100-Day MRF Challenge
“I ended up raising $21,000 for the Wounded Warrior Project, which was awesome. I had a goal of $5,000 when I started.”
The 50-Day 10-Mile Challenge: A National Mission
“My goal is to reach someone, whether it's one person or a few in every single state, to hear the message that there's hope.”
“My goal is to reach someone, whether it's one person or a few in every single state, to hear the message that there's hope.”
“If I can't help myself, at least maybe I can help someone else.”
“You don't need to have all this perfect training plan or the perfect shoes or the perfect gear... It's a matter of just... showing up.”
Host
Guest
Jake Prusha
person
Mental Health
other
Coast Guard
organization
Kirk DeWint
person
Wounded Warrior Project
organization
MRF Workout
other
Anxiety
other
Ironman
other
Boston
place
The Running Public
media
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