Maybe Running Will Help: Jeffrey James Binney, Writing the Next Chapter — Literally
Tuesday, March 31, 2026
By: Nicky Tamberrino, Host of Maybe Running Will Help Podcast
I just had the fun-est interview. I don’t know if fun-est is a word, but even if it’s not, maybe especially if it’s not, it’s totally appropriate.
I threw my head back and laughed so much I’m surprised I don’t have neck issues this week.
You may know Jeff from social media. He has impressively good dance moves, which he performs mid-hike with a comedic twist. That’s part of his brand as a speaker, storyteller, and comedian who somehow makes suffering in the outdoors look entertaining.
Maybe you’ve seen his 2020 documentary, Once Is Enough, about his journey to run a 100 mile ultra marathon after losing his mother to obesity.
Well now, he’s stepping into a new role.
He’s becoming an author.
Jeff is currently writing a book about his adventures, or misadventures, hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, a trek I am seriously uninformed about. Honestly, I’m a novice when it comes to hiking and trails in general, which becomes painfully obvious throughout the interview. And that’s part of what makes the conversation so fun. I get to ask the questions many, or at least a few, of us runners are secretly thinking.
Some of my favorite topics from this conversation include trail names (for hikers), and why I believe the PCT is prime territory for a serial killer. Although Jeff assures me it is incredibly safe, we both agreed it would make an excellent backdrop for a horror film.
His book comes out in June 2027 and is called Motivationally Unstable, which feels seriously relatable these days. Be sure to sign up for the latest on his website.
The podcast episode is out now. Listen and share it with anyone who might enjoy a good story about adventure, humor, and what it means to start the next chapter, literally.
Don’t forget to rate and review the show wherever you stream content. It helps us reach more people who need to find our community and explore how maybe running will help.
Until next time,
Keep running. Keep inspiring. And keep sharing how maybe running will help.
Have a great run, everybody.
