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Born and raised in Missoula, Josh Turner has always called western Montana home, though work has taken him on a few adventures. He spent time in both Louisiana and West Virginia working on the pipeline, and when he was 21, even worked as a poker dealer in Louisiana. Today, Josh lives in Frenchtown and works as what Montanans proudly call a “wrecker driver”—a tow truck driver.
What is a hobby you have that surprises people?
“I used to ride motorcycles and have traveled to Florida, Sturgis, Canada, Alaska and Washington. I also have a YouTube channel, JoshTurner5738. I started it after joining RWM to try and be more open.”
Josh joined Run Wild Missoula in August 2024, but his running journey began during a difficult chapter in his life. After experiencing health issues that led to surgery and depression, he began physical therapy at Range Physical Therapy. It was there that he was encouraged to give Run Wild Missoula a try.” Before 2024, I had never run a complete mile. When I first started running, I couldn’t even run a block. So I ran every day for about a month and a half, adding a little more each day, and finally I was able to run three miles without stopping.”
What is a book or podcast you recommend?
“Slow AF by Martinus Evans”
Josh’s first race was the 2024 Riverbank Run. From there, he attended a Run Wild Missoula Beer Run, ran the River City Roots Run, and in the spring of 2025 joined Trail Sessions with leaders Connor and Eric. Later that summer, Josh completed his first half marathon at the 2025 Missoula Half Marathon. Since that first Riverbank Run, Josh hasn’t looked back.”I’m my own hardest critic. I get so motivated by Missoula’s running community. Everyone is so cheerful, even if they don’t know you.”
Running has transformed Josh’s life, improving both his physical and mental health while helping him lose weight and build confidence.
What’s your favorite pump-up song?
“I have so many…Run It by Jelly Roll is a good one”
When asked when his Run Wild Missoula membership truly became worth it, Josh immediately thought back to the 2024 Elk Ramble. “During that race I came in dead last. I was coming down the hill and some guy said, ‘You’re doing a good job.’ I said, ‘Yep, bringing up the rear.’ He said, ‘Don’t say that, man. You’re doing awesome.’ Then I came around the corner and heard Trisha say, ‘Alright everybody, scream for him when he comes across!’ Ever since that day, I’ve tried to be involved as much as I can because Run Wild has been so kind to me.”
What’s your personal mantra?
“I am a bad a$$.”
One of Josh’s recent highlights was setting a personal best in the half marathon at this year’s Missoula Half Marathon. His favorite volunteer role is cheering on the Back of the Pack participants. “When I volunteered as a Back of the Pack cheerleader in 2024, that inspired me to run the race myself in 2025. It was awesome.”
Josh loves connecting with people. He’s passionate about sharing his running journey, encouraging others, and embracing a little friendly competition along the way.
What’s your spirit animal?
“Elk because they are bad a$$.”
His advice for fellow members? “Volunteer, and remember running is all about having fun.”
Josh would also like to give a heartfelt thank you to the people who have supported and encouraged him since the very beginning of his running journey: Elizabeth, Trudi, Sarah, Leslie, Maddie, the team at Range Physical Therapy, Lily Mac, Todd and family, Jeremy, and his mom and dad.
