EP175 - No Stoplights, No Excuses: Running Home with Suzan Brydon

Run The Riot Podcast

In this episode of Run the Riot, we catch up with ultrarunner Suzan Brydon, who’s currently 19 days into a massive and meaningful mission—running over 1,920 miles across the American Discovery Trail as part of a community health initiative supported by her employer, The Cigna Group. This isn’t just a solo adventure—Suzan’s run is empowering young girls through Girls on the Run, raising awareness about rural health gaps, and bringing visibility to women ultrarunners tackling big goals.

Suzan shares how she trained by completing the Southern States 200, and how she prepared her body and mind for this endurance feat by leaning into the “mind over matter” philosophy. From mud-filled horse trails lovingly known as the "poop porridge" to peaceful Midwest farmland and iced lattes in small-town cafes, Suzan gives us a glimpse into her daily grind and what it takes to average 23 miles per day.

She also talks about the mental and physical shifts that come with multi-week endurance, how she's fueling with real food (including entire pizzas!), and how the support of her husband/crew is keeping the journey rolling. Whether you’re an experienced ultrarunner or someone chasing your first big goal, Suzan’s story is a powerful reminder that limitless potential often starts with one brave step.

Check out the show notes here for her links!