When The Going Gets Tough

Hey Team!

I’ve just got back to Vancouver after a full month in NYC. It’s only been 48 hours and I’m already feeling the pull to head back. What’s striking about New York is how everything feels bigger. Not that bigger is always better, but it’s dense—with opportunity and with community.

Like anything, there are tradeoffs. It’s a city that demands a lot of energy, with little downtime. For me, it’s good to be home on the west coast… but I know I’ll be back in NYC before long.

A Mental Edge

The 30 days in New York were intense. Between the running, the filming, and the sheer energy of the city, there was constant pressure to perform. Most days started at 5 AM, followed by 7–8 miles of running and speaking in front of 100–300 strangers. It was draining, mentally and physically.

When exhaustion hit, my first instinct was to back off: maybe one run a day instead of two. But every time, the thought was fleeting. I knew what my body could handle, and I knew the mission: tap into the run clubs, share their stories, and inspire others.

A story I once heard from a rapper stuck with me. At his peak, he was touring 250 nights a year. When he eased up, thinking it would help, he killed his own momentum. He disappeared almost overnight. His biggest regret was not keeping the flywheel spinning.

That lesson shaped my month. Momentum is everything. If what you’re doing is sustainable, lean into it. Action—more than planning—creates the breakthroughs. One run, one conversation, one connection can change everything.

Next time you feel the urge to pull back, ask: Is this unsustainable, or just uncomfortable? If it’s the latter, keep moving. Momentum is a muscle—build it, and it carries you further than you think.

Tested This Week

This might be the most excited I’ve been about a product in months: socks. Specifically, performance socks by Sweetfeet, a new brand out of New York.

I’ve obsessed for years over finding the perfect pair—ones that don’t slip, aren’t too long or too low, and prevent blisters on long runs. Sweetfeet nailed it. I wore them across the entire NYC tour—200+ miles—and they delivered every time.

One morning I ran with The Athletic Clubs and ended up next to Cole Bradley, Sweetfeet’s co-founder. After four miles, we filmed a quick interview. Beyond making great socks, Cole is a community builder. And for me, that’s reason enough to back the brand.

If you’re as particular about socks as I am, keep an eye on Sweetfeet. They’ve set a new bar for performance meets design—and they’re now my go-to, whether running or heading out for dinner.

Quick Reminders Before You Start:

Want to level up your sock game? Use this link for 20% off Sweetfeet.

Here’s a reflection I shared after wrapping The NYC Run Club Tour—overflowing with gratitude for everyone who supported the journey.

Let’s keep leaning in when the wind’s at our back.

Until next time, I’ll catch you on the Start Line,
—Matty