#154 Ashley Mateo on Working in Run Journalism, Ways to Vet Resources, and AI

The internet provides us with an endless amount of information about running, but between websites, social media, online magazines, and more, how do we sift through to find what's legitimate? On this episode, Andrea and Nathan are joined by journalist and influencer Ashley Mateo to talk all things running media and coaching. They take a look at the state of journalism and how it's changed over the years, vetting sources and influencers on social media, the future of AI, and more. Ashley's also a USATF-certified coach, so they explore the benefits of the athlete-coach relationship and how they can help you take your running to the next level. Ashley Mateo is an award-winning journalist and editor who currently works as a freelance editorial consultant. She was previously the site director of Redbook and the deputy digital editor at Shape. Her writing has appeared in such outlets as The Wall Street Journal, TIME, Runner's World, Women's Running, Men's Journal, Health, Women's Health, Bicycling, and more. She received her degree in journalism from Boston University. Ashley is also an RRCA- and UESCA-certified running coach. She lives in Denver. You can find her online on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and be sure to subscribe to her phenomenal email newsletter, the rundown. Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:38 - Ashley's running background 5:35 - The Subjective: what are you favorite sources for running information? 10:22 - How Ashley got into writing about running 16:25 - How freelance journalists get assignments 18:22 - How writing about running has changed in the last 5-10 years 22:38 - How coaching has changed Ashley's writing 26:18 - The role of a running coach 31:45 - How to find reliable sources of information on social media 35:08 - Vetting influences who also have sponsorships and advertise 39:46 - The community and communication in the coaching relationship 44:28 - How reliable are running influencers? 49:24 - The comparison trap 55:46 - How journalism is being changed by AI 1:00:31 - AI in fitness machines & training plans 1:05:06 - Content creation & burnout 1:14:41 - Ashley's favorite shoes 1:24:24 - Wrap-up This week’s episode of the Doctors of Running Podcast is sponsored by our friends at Running Warehouse. With the introduction of super foams and carbon plates, it’s never been more fun to tackle the trails than with today’s footwear. The ⁠Nike Ultrafly⁠ hit shelves recently, giving runners a chance to take the tried-and-true ZoomX midsole foam off road and into the woods for long distances. In our Chief Editor Matt Klein’s review of the shoe, he says “Those wanting ZoomX foam with a plate that feels comfortable at both easy and uptempo paces will enjoy the Nike Ultrafly. The ultramarathon community should be excited that they have a super shoe specifically designed for them.” Not to be outdone, ⁠Hoka’s Tecton X2⁠, ⁠New Balance’s SuperComp Trail⁠, and ⁠Saucony’s Endorphin Rift⁠ offer excellent alternatives that each have their own strengths. Find reviews on all four super trail shoes at Doctors of Running and head over to ⁠Running Warehouse⁠to shop today.