10. Running the World with Thanh Truong

After fleeing Vietnam as a teenager in the 1970's, Thanh Truong built a new life in the United States, one marked by quiet determination, an adventurous spirit, and an unshakable love for running. Now, he’s on the verge of his 200th marathon and his second completion of the 50 States Marathon Challenge.In this heartfelt episode, host Sally Hed Dahlquist chats with Thanh about his extraordinary journey, from "boatperson" to becoming a globetrotting marathoner. Along the way, Thanh has raced across continents, built lifelong friendships, and proved that grit, humility, and curiosity can carry you across any finish line.In this episode, you’ll hear:Thanh’s migration from Vietnam and life in an Indonesian refugee campHow a church sponsorship brought him to Virginia Why running marathons around the world became his passionThe mental and physical challenges that keep races exciting, even after 198 finishesHow friendships with fellow runners make the miles even more meaningfulWhy Hartford 2025 will mark not one, but two monumental milestones for ThanhWhether you’re chasing your first 5K or your own 50 States finish, Thanh’s story is a reminder that resilience isn’t loud, it’s consistent, steady, and built one step at a time.🏅 Support Sally’s mission to raise $1 million for medical research: unstoppablestoriesthatmove.comFeeling inspired? Have you ever crossed a finish line that changed the way you saw yourself? Share your story with us.Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs a little proof that ordinary people can do extraordinary things.