The Power of Intentional Words

Hey Team!

As I write this, I’m looking out at blue skies and crisp fall air… the kind that makes you want to lace up and get out there. I’ve been taking full advantage, running almost every day this week, usually 8–10 kilometers at a time. It’s become my midday reset. There’s something about stepping away from the desk, breathing in that cold, clean air, and letting your mind go quiet that brings a kind of clarity you can’t find on a treadmill. I’ll bank those treadmill days for the winter. For now, the roads are calling.

This Week’s Shift

There’s been one theme circling my mind all week: intentionality. Maybe it’s the slower pace of life here in Tofino, or just the space to think, but I’ve been paying close attention to how people use words. The words we choose matter more than we realize. They shape the energy of our conversations, our relationships, and our performance.

I’ve always admired great communicators—people who can say a lot with very little, or make you feel something through simple language. It’s no coincidence that this newsletter even exists. Writing has made me more aware of the weight words carry. I’ve noticed how often people, myself included, minimize what we feel or want to say. We’ll open up, share something meaningful, and then brush it off with, “It’s no big deal.” But if you took the time to say it, it probably is a big deal.

When we downplay things that matter, we’re really telling ourselves that what we think or feel isn’t important. Over time, that becomes a pattern… and it leaks into how we show up in training, in work, in relationships. I’ve always believed in manifestation and the power of language to call things into our lives. When you’re direct and clear about what you want, it’s like planting a flag. You’ve told the world—and yourself—where you’re headed.

If something matters, say it matters. If you commit to something, follow through. The moment you treat your words casually, you weaken the foundation you’re standing on. Whether it’s your next race, your next project, or a personal goal, the way you talk about it will shape how you show up for it.

So this week, be intentional. Mean what you say, and say what you mean. You’ll be surprised how much that alone can change the outcome.

From The Field

Out of the thousands of runners I met during the NYC Run Club Tour, one person who left a lasting mark was Dave, the founder and lead organizer of Central Park Run Club (seen in the green t-shirt above). From the moment we met, his energy filled the space. Before one of our runs, he introduced me to his crew like we’d known each other for years. He didn’t just give a surface-level intro—he had done his research. He spoke about my Whistler ultramarathon, even mentioned the David Goggin’s 4x4x48 challenge I did as the first spark for Project 125. I couldn’t believe it.

It reminded me how much people pay attention. Often more than we realize. The way you move through the world—how you speak, act, lead—it’s all noticed. You might not get the feedback right away, but it lands somewhere.

In fact, Dave texted me after his 50th birthday:

“You inspired me so much, I just ran 50 miles on Friday for my 50th birthday. Thank you.”

That message stopped me in my tracks. You never really know who’s watching, or what impact you’re having. Sometimes it’s the smallest thing—a post, a conversation, a story—that gives someone else the courage to start.

So wherever you are, keep showing up with intention. Someone out there might be using your example as their starting line.

Quick Reminders Before You Start:

We’re heading back to NYC for marathon week. I’ll be doing a few interviews with people shaping the world of running and performance. If anyone comes to mind, hit reply, I’d love your thoughts.

We’ve been quietly building something special behind the scenes and are almost ready to share. Stay tuned over the next few weeks. I’m pumped to show you what’s coming.

No matter where you’re running, remember this: your words, your actions, and your energy all leave a mark. Keep leading with intention… and keep moving forward.

Catch you on the Start Line,
—Matty