Episode 9: From Injury to Ikigai

In this inspiring episode of Runpod, we welcome Dr (Col) Sandeep Karunakaran – Scientific Director & Senior Consultant at Apollo Fertility, academic leader, entrepreneur, and a man who found his true calling through the quiet rhythm of solitary running.Once a passionate sportsperson, a severe knee injury in 2003 brought his athletic life to a halt. But years later, amidst the solitude of the 2020 lockdown, he began a transformative journey — from brisk walks to marathons, and from battling BMI to embracing mindful miles.Tune in as he shares how running became his sanctuary, a path to healing, self-discovery, and resilience. With nearly 80 half marathons (most of them unpublicized) and a silent commitment to self-growth, Dr Karunakaran redefines what it means to run — not for records, but for reflection.This is a story of endurance, evolution, and finding your ikigai.