The Grit Files

EmKay is a former Division I coach for the University of Nevada cross country teams and is also a USTFCCCA certified strength coach. While at Nevada, she coached the American women’s junior record holder in the marathon and helped develop the newly founded men’s team. EmKay runs for CRAFT, trains in Reno, Nevada and competes both domestically and internationally. 

Originally from Arkansas, EmKay began running in junior high school. She was recruited to the University of Nevada where she ran for five years and earned Division I All-American Honors in the 3,000m steeplechase. She currently holds the University of Nevada school records for the indoor 3,000m and 5,000m and outdoor 3,000m steeplechase and 5,000m. Post-collegiately, EmKay has shifted her focus to the longer events both on the roads and on the trails. EmKay qualified for the 2020 Olympic Trials Marathon in her debut marathon and was 4th in her ultramarathon debut at the Way Too Cool 50K in 2019. Since then, she has finished 2nd at the Broken Arrow Skyrace, 1st in the Way Too Cool 50k and 9th at Marathon du Mont Blanc. 

Teresa is a cancer survivor, current lung transplant candidate, and most importantly, a mother, a wife, and a daughter.

She has never identified as an athlete but her grit and endurance is that of one. Listen to her story about defeat, resilience, and motherhood as she fought for her life and continues to do so with her new diagnosis.

Rachel is a UESCA Certified Ultra Running Coach and NASM Certified Personal Trainer with over seven years of experience across the collegiate, high school, and private sectors. Holding a Master’s in Public Health, she specializes in "whole-person" development—blending data-driven performance with psychological strength.

From leading championship teams to serving on the board of the Women’s Running Coaches Collective, Rachel is dedicated to elevating the standard of coaching for everyday athletes. Whether you are chasing a first 50K or an elite 100-mile finish, her approach ensures your training is sustainable, informed, and transformative. 

Meet Brandon!

Brandon is the owner of Iron Force Fitness, a strength and endurance-based gym built on discipline, consistency, and long-term growth.

Alongside his work in fitness, Brandon has established himself as a renowned fitness and nature photographer, collaborating with top brands including GOWOD, NoBull, HYROX, TYR, Fanatics, and National Geographic. His work captures the intersection of movement, resilience, and the raw beauty of the natural world. 

Sixteen years sober, Brandon credits his sobriety as the foundation for everything he’s built — shaping his discipline, creativity, and ability to stay present through uncertainty and growth.

He is a husband, a proud father to a son, and currently preparing to welcome another baby. When he isn’t behind the camera or coaching clients, Brandon is training for his own HYROX competitions, continuing to live out the endurance mindset he teaches and documents every day. 

This is your introduction to The Grit Files! Get to know host Laura Reynolds and find out what is to come on the podcast.