Consistency and improvement are probably the two main pillars that Ben Allen routinely leans on when he lines up at the track on race day, but also in his approach to training. The Minnesota native has specialized in distances between the 800m and the mile for New York-based Empire Elite Track Club where he’s defined his mark on the professional scene.

After his collegiate career at Concordia University, St. Paul, Allen was unsure where running would take him but connected with Empire after seeing current teammate Eric Holt’s animated reaction during an interview at a track meet.

In this episode, Ben talks about embracing the nuances of progression that sometimes comes with detours — and even setbacks — and finding the tools to prevail as he continues to press to break 3:50 in the mile.