Podcast: Episode 198 with Nell Rojas

Mario Fraioli | March 21, 2022

“As I’ve gotten more serious about it, fun looks a little different. It’s more Type-II fun. Most importantly, because I am older, because I am 34, I have a good perspective on what is important and what matters. Sometimes, at least, I can leave my ego behind, I have that maturity. And so with all those things I’m able to be like, ‘If this isn’t fun, I’m not doing this, because this is too hard of way to make money and too hard of a way to live if it is not fun.’ So the second it is not fun, I am out.”

I recently had a conversation with Nell Rojas, sixth-place finisher and top American at last fall’s Boston Marathon. She’s currently getting ready to line up for this year’s race on April 18.

We covered a lot in this one. Nell filled me in on where she’s at in her Boston preparation and how it’s differing from her approach last fall. We talk about the role running has played in her life and how that’s evolved over the years. We discussed identity and why “runner” isn’t even one of the first things that comes to mind when Nell introduces herself. She told me about her relationship to her dad, the legendary Ric Rojas, who is also her coach, we talked coaching and what she’s learned from the amateur athletes she’s worked with, and a lot more.

Nell Rojas: Website | Instagram | YouTube

the morning shakeout: Instagram | Twitter

Mario Fraioli: Website | Strava

This episode is brought to you by:

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— The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Peachtree Road Race. Member and lottery registration is GOING ON NOW. The race will take place on Monday, July 4. Atlanta Track Club members receive guaranteed and lowest price entry. Non-members must enter through the lottery and will be notified if selected on April 4. In-person registration is ONLY open until March 31. Virtual registration is open until May 31. You can register today at ajc.com/peachtree.

Music and editing for this episode of the morning shakeout podcast by John Summerford.