Running across America — one kind soul and one mile at a time.

Hi, I’m Jared—a recent college graduate and long-distance runner from Virginia. I’m training to run across the entire United States, starting from the Pacific Ocean in California and finishing at the Atlantic coast in North Carolina.

This journey is both a personal and spiritual one for me — I’m running solo, averaging about 30 miles a day, and raising funds for a local non-profit that supports moms and families in need (https://charity.pledgeit.org/jaredsamericanrun/@jared).

I love meeting kind, grounded people and learning from others’ stories and perspectives. I strive to live simply, be respectful, and express gratitude in every way I can. I’m very independent and low-maintenance, and I always clean up after myself. I’ll mostly need a safe place to rest for a night and maybe a shower, but I’m happy to share my story and a meal together if you’d like.

I believe in authentic community, faith, and the kindness of strangers — this run is a reminder that goodness still exists everywhere!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I’m on Couchsurfing to connect with people during my cross-country run — to find safe places to rest at the end of long days and to meet others who believe in community, generosity, and adventure.

I’ll be traveling completely solo and pushing a jogging stroller with my gear. Most nights I’ll camp or stay in small motels, but in towns where Couchsurfing hosts are available, I’d love to stay and share my journey.

I’m not looking for luxury or handouts — just hospitality, good conversation, and a roof for the night. I’ve found that the best memories come from small acts of kindness and shared humanity.

Interests

• Long-distance running and endurance travel
• Nature and open roads
• Faith and personal growth
• Simplicity and minimalism
• Meaningful conversations
• Volunteering and giving back
• Outdoor adventures, camping, and scenic places
•. Quiet mornings and watching the sunrise on the road

• cooking
• running
• meditation
• reading
• traveling
• classical music
• hiking
• local food
• talking
• deep conversations
• meeting new people
• classic literature
• prayer
• listening to stories
• watching the stars
• quiet places
• minimalist travel

Music, Movies, and Books

I love Irish folk music, soft rock, and classical music because I find them enriching and inspiring.

One of my favorite movies is Christopher Nolan’s Inception — it never fails to amaze me.

My favorite book is Dostoyevsky’s The Brother’s Karamazov.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

In May, 2025, I organized and completed a 100-mile ultramarathon run around a 1.5-mile loop. This run took 29 hours and would not have been possible without the encouragement and support of my friends and family!

Teach, Learn, Share

Teach:
I love to share what I’ve learned from running long distances, traveling on foot, and discovering the kindness of strangers. I also studied at Christendom College, where I deepened my appreciation for philosophy, history, and the beauty of faith. I enjoy talking about these things in a down-to-earth way — no lectures, just honest conversation.

Learn:
I love learning about people’s stories — where they come from, what makes them come alive, and how they see the world. Everyone has a perspective worth hearing, and I find deep joy in listening and learning from the lives of others. In my experience, every person’s story is far more interesting and personal than the places I have visited.

Share:
One of my favorite things to do is set up a small sign that says “Free Listening” in public places and just talk with anyone who needs to be heard. I’d love to share that same spirit wherever I go — over coffee, a walk, or a simple meal. I can also help with cooking, chores, or running errands — I believe in leaving every place a little better than I found it.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can share stories from the road — about what it’s like to run across America one small town at a time. I can also help with small tasks, share a meal, or contribute to groceries.

If you’d like, I can share more about my cause and what I’ve learned from long-distance endurance and faith-based travel.

I always leave a place cleaner than I found it, and I’m quiet, grateful, and respectful of your space and time.

Countries I’ve Visited

Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Denmark, France, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Poland, Spain, Turkey, Vatican City State

Countries I’ve Lived In

Italy, United States