The People Run Podcast

Adriana Prince is a full time middle school teacher, a 2:54 marathoner, and a runner who regularly logs 70-90 miles a week. But what makes her story interesting isn't just how much she runs. It's how much she loves doing it.In this episode of The People Run Podcast, Adriana shares how she found her way into running, stepped away from competitive racing, and rediscovered the joy that eventually led her to a sub three hour marathon. We get into her early morning routine, balancing training with teaching, learning when to back off, and the role faith and community play in her life.Now, with the Chicago Marathon approaching, Adriana is preparing to chase a new personal best. We talk about what's changed in her training, what she's learned from previous races, and what she hopes to take away from Chicago beyond the finish time.Chapters00:00 Why Adriana Loves Running04:20 From Casual Runner to Competitor10:05 From 3:14 to 2:5419:43 What the 2:54 Finish Meant21:55 13 Miles Before Teaching31:00 Workouts, Treadmills & Tough Days40:04 Running as Worship43:12 When Running Stops Being Fun48:19 Chicago Marathon: Chasing Sub-2:5052:52 What Makes a Successful Race Weekend?Follow Adriana:https://wwwinstagram.com/runningthelife_/Follow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats

At 16 years old, João Guilherme left Brazil for the UK and found himself navigating a new country, school, training, and stretches of living on his own. Running had only recently entered his life. What started as 20-minute treadmill runs eventually became something much bigger. Three years later, João is 19, has run 32:17 for 10K, is preparing for his first half marathon in Copenhagen, and is about to begin studying sports science at St Mary’s University surrounded by one of the strongest running environments in the UK.João shares how running gave him confidence and community, the early coach who saw his willingness to suffer before she saw his talent, learning the hard way that every workout shouldn’t be a race, and how a more science-based approach to training has changed his development.With his first half marathon ahead and ambitions of one day representing Brazil, João still has no idea where his ceiling is.He just knows he wants to find out.Chapters00:00 From Brazil to a 32:17 10K02:09 Finding Running & Breaking 17 Minutes04:22 Moving to the UK & Breaking 16 Minutes05:42 St Mary’s, Coaching & a New Environment10:17 How Running Changed João’s Life13:20 Inside João’s Science-Based Training18:03 Racing the Brazilian U23 Championships19:13 The Hardest Race He’s Ever Run22:14 Winning a 32:17 10K & Chasing More31:48 Preparing for His First Half MarathonFollow João:instagram.com/joao._runs/Follow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats

At 25, Gio Cerisier is balancing 70 mile weeks, 5AM runs, a full-time job, marriage, and fatherhood all while chasing the fastest times of his life.Gio shares how a self-funded trip to Flagstaff changed what he believed was possible, his progression from a 17-minute 5K runner to running 69:50 in his first half marathon, and how he rebuilt after hernia surgery. He also breaks down his approach to double-threshold training, fast long runs, and why he refuses to prove his fitness in workouts.But running is only part of the story. Gio opens up about becoming a father while still competing in college, breaking his school steeplechase record just days after his daughter was born, the role faith plays in his life, and his dream of one day representing Haiti.Now, with even bigger goals ahead, Gio is finding out just how far he can take it without losing sight of what matters most.Chapters00:00 Meet Gio Cerisier02:00 5AM Runs, Work & Fatherhood06:03 The Flagstaff Trip That Changed Everything09:58 From 17-Minute 5K to College Running15:02 The Breakthrough20:01 Why Your Environment Matters25:04 Hernia Surgery & the Comeback29:50 Double Threshold & Fast Long Runs35:03 Save It for Race Day40:00 How Far Can Gio Take This?45:00 Fatherhood, Faith & RunningFollow Gio:instagram.com/gio_venchy/Follow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

Chirine Njeim spent most of her life as a ski racer, representing Lebanon at three Winter Olympic Games before eventually walking away from the sport that had defined her.Then she found running.What started as a new challenge quickly became something much bigger, eventually taking Chirine back to the Olympics this time as a marathoner.Chirine joins Fitz to talk about starting over in a new sport, chasing the Rio Olympics, representing Lebanon, taking on seven marathons on seven continents in seven days, and why after four Olympics she’s still asking: what’s next?Chapters00:00 Chirine’s Athletic Journey01:13 From Olympic Skiing to Marathon Running02:38 Growing Up Skiing in Lebanon04:11 Moving to France at 13 to Chase Skiing07:00 Her First Olympics & Overcoming Setbacks11:24 Walking Away From Skiing & Starting Over13:36 Learning to Train Like a Runner18:17 The Unexpected Road to the Rio Olympics24:11 Favorite Races & Marathon Memories31:45 Fear, Pressure & the Mental Side of Sport38:32 Seven Marathons, Seven Continents, Seven Days43:47 What’s Next After Four Olympics?Follow Chirine:instagram.com/chirine.njeim/Follow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

What does a photographer see that the rest of us miss?Fitz sits down with Audrey Helle, a Sport editorial photographer, to talk about the way she sees athletes through her lens from HYROX and track to boxing and other high-intensity sports.Audrey shares why she shoots primarily in black and white, how she uses harsh light to her advantage, why she scouts venues before shooting, and how she looks for the vulnerable, emotional moments athletes don’t always want people to see.They also talk about how street photography shaped her eye, the people who pushed her to take photography seriously, why so much sports photography can start to look the same, and why she believes an athlete’s story exists far beyond the finish line.From documenting training and injuries to capturing the moments before warm-up and after recovery, Audrey explains why the unseen parts of sport are often the most important to photograph.A conversation about sports photography, HYROX, visual storytelling, emotion, and seeing the moments everyone else misses.Chapters00:00 Seeing What Athletes Don’t See03:02 Composition, Light & Planning the Shot06:57 Why Audrey Shoots in Black & White12:07 Finding the Perfect Shot17:23 Becoming a Photographer19:54 Telling an Athlete’s Story25:29 Anticipating the Moment33:43 Gear, Preparation & Photographing New Athletes40:11 Beyond the Finish Line: The Full Athlete StoryFollow Audrey:instagram.com/audrey_elle.h/audreyhelle.myportfolio.comFollow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

In 2023, Polow suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm while out on a run.He woke up in the hospital days later, spent weeks in the ICU, and had to relearn how to walk before he could even think about running again. The first attempts back were brutal tears, panic, fear that it could happen again, and the question of whether he would ever feel like himself as a runner again. Eventually, he kept showing up.Polow talks about the emotional side of recovery, survivor’s guilt, therapy, the first runs he couldn’t finish, and the moment running finally started to feel normal again. He also shares how the experience completely changed his relationship with training, ego, sleep, recovery, and what it means to actually take care of himself. We also get into Run N Brunch, the Atlanta running community he built around making sure nobody feels left behind, his return to 13.1 at SeaWheeze, and why his next challenge means more than any race he has done before. Now, Polow is training for the New York City Marathon in support of the Brain Aneurysm Foundation.For him, getting to that start line is about much more than 26.2 miles.“It means I made it.”Chapters00:00 Surviving a Brain Aneurysm & Returning to Running01:57 The Fear of Running Again03:58 The Day Everything Changed08:00 Waking Up in the ICU11:56 Learning to Walk Again16:07 When Running Finally Felt Normal Again19:59 Working From a Place of Rest24:03 Building Run N Brunch & Running for the Back of the Pack28:08 Leaving Ego Behind & Returning to Racing33:04 The Road to the NYC MarathonFollow Polow:instagram.com/polizzy/Support Polow’s NYC Marathon:Polow is running the NYC Marathon in support of the Brain Aneurysm Foundation. You can support his fundraising efforts here:https://fundraisers.nyrr.org/polow-lynnFollow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

Madey is a 2:28 marathoner chasing even bigger goals while working full time as a nurse and regularly training up to 100 miles per week.In this episode, we talk about how she balances 12 hour hospital shifts with high level marathon training, 4 a.m. runs, and the discipline required to make it all work. Madey shares how working in healthcare has changed her perspective on running, why she refuses to take her health for granted, and how she’s learned to race more aggressively and “close the gap.”Fueling 100 mile weeks, body image in distance running, recovery, relationships, the sacrifices behind chasing big goals, and why she wants other nurses and everyday runners to see that a demanding career doesn’t mean giving up the things you love.A conversation about running fast, making time, and appreciating the opportunity to do both.Chapters00:00 Meet Madey: Nurse, Runner & 100-Mile Weeks03:51  Managing Fatigue, Recovery & Fueling09:18  Mental Toughness & Race-Day Mindset16:22  From the Mile to a 2:28 Marathon22:23  How Working in Healthcare Changed Her Running24:42 4 A.M. Runs, Friends & Strength Training28:57 Getting Faster & Building Confidence36:50 Chasing the Olympic Trials & Staying Healthy39:52 Two Full-Time Jobs: Work, Running & Sacrifice43:33 The Bigger Why Behind Her RunningFollow Madey:instagram.com/madeydickson/Follow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

Joey Whelan was running 2:13 - 2:15 marathons while balancing running with work when he decided he had one more shot to see how good he could become. With the support of his wife, he quit his job, went all in on running, and eventually broke 2:10. Joey talks about what changed when running became his full time pursuit, racing multiple marathons a year, recovering quickly enough to keep coming back, and what each race has taught him. We get into Berlin's brutal heat, winning and setting course records, representing Team USA, training at 100+ miles per week, and the small details he's learning as he tries to close the gap to the next level. Now, after winning 11 marathons, running under 2:10 and holding five course records, Joey isn't interested in staying where he knows he can win. He's headed to Chicago to find out how he stacks up against some of the best runners in the country and he's not finished yet. This one is about betting on yourself, finding another level, and seeing what happens when you go all in.Chapters00:00 Going All In on Running09:21 Chasing Sub-2:10: Berlin, CIM & Going Full-Time16:16 Learning to Race Like the Elites21:17 Racing the Best & Chasing the Majors28:30 What Every Marathon Has Taught Him35:54 What Separates a 2:09 Marathoner?44:46 Recovery, Fueling & Life as a Pro52:34 Nothing to Lose: What Comes NextFollow Joey:instagram.com/jpwhelan23/Follow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

Emily Durgin has been a U.S. champion, finished ninth at the 2024 Olympic Trials, and spent years consistently improving and competing at the highest level. Then an injury changed the rhythm of everything.Emily opens up about the past year and a half of trying to feel like herself again. She shares what it was like racing at 85%, questioning whether her best years were behind her, and eventually deciding that continuing to push through wasn't worth sacrificing a full recovery.We talk about the mistakes she's made returning from injury, learning when to stop forcing fitness, rebuilding from the ground up, and separating her identity from running while still believing deeply in what she can accomplish.Emily also looks ahead to 2027 and 2028, why she believes her fastest running may still be ahead of her, and what it means to give herself the chance to go all in one more time.Chapters00:00 – Emily’s comeback and injury reset01:04 – Why she stopped racing through pain05:23 – The hardest part: being away from competition07:12 – Starting fresh in Boulder10:59 – The lesson: stop running through it12:21 – Why racing means so much more than workouts17:39 – Redefining success and choosing joy27:13 – Hill strides and rebuilding form30:32 – The biggest mistake runners make after injury34:12 – Faith, friendship, and joy outside running43:15 – December marathons and the road back47:41 – Why 2028 is the main goal50:55 – What she’ll appreciate most when she’s backFollow Emily:instagram.com/em_durgin/Follow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

Less than a year after signing up for her first HYROX, Courtney qualified for the HYROX World Championships.In this episode, Courtney shares how she balances a full-time career, family life, and training while chasing her potential. We talk about qualifying for Worlds, running a sub 40 10K, training 15+ hours a week, fueling, recovery, and the mindset that's helped her improve so quickly.Whether you're training for HYROX, running your next race, or simply trying to fit big goals into a busy life, there's something in this conversation for you.Chapters00:00 Introduction: From First HYROX to Worlds02:11 Signing Up for Her First HYROX03:57 Training, Mindset & Finding Her Potential07:10 The Mental Side of Racing10:11 The Road to HYROX Worlds15:46 Race Day at Worlds19:01 Lessons From HYROX Worlds23:02 Running, HYROX & Getting Faster29:07 Balancing Work, Family & Training33:04 Fueling, Recovery & Community44:02 What's Next? Hong Kong & Future GoalsFollow Courtney:instagram.com/courtney.hybrid.fit/Follow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

Olympic medalist, author, and lifelong runner Deena Kastor joins The People Run Podcast.We talk about how her relationship with running has evolved, why joy matters more than chasing personal bests, what keeps her running today, the growth of the running community, writing Let Your Mind Run, and the lessons running continues to teach her decades after standing on the Olympic podium.If you’ve ever wondered why we keep coming back to running, this conversation is for you.Enjoy the episode.Chapters00:00 Why Running Never Leaves You02:58 Deena's Current Running Routine and Goals06:59 Evolving Relationship with Running and Aging12:00 The Impact of Community and Environment on Running17:02 The Growth of the Sport and New Major Races22:05 Deena's Reflection on Her Marathon Journey26:53 The Mental and Emotional Benefits of Running33:50 Writing Let Your Mind Run42:00 The Power of Inspiration and Quotes in Running45:06 Kindness, Community, and the Future of RunningFollow Deena:instagram.com/deenakastor/Follow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

Sydney Levenfeld never expected running to change the direction of her life.After being diagnosed with epilepsy in 2020, running became a safe space during a difficult period. What started as a way to cope eventually led to a 3:15 debut marathon in Chicago, a growing belief in what she was capable of, and ultimately a 2:46 marathon PR.Sydney joins the podcast to talk about finding confidence through running, her rapid marathon progression, learning to love the training process, the workouts that helped her improve, racing Chicago, Boston and Eugene, and the unique prerace ritual she uses to visualize her goals.We also talk about leaving teaching, navigating uncertainty in her career, betting on herself, and co-founding Lead Pack Athletics as running became more than something she did it helped shape the person she wanted to become.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Sydney Levenfeld's Running Journey02:07 How Running Helped Build Confidence and Self-Belief04:03 Sydney's First Marathon and Its Significance05:52 Overcoming Health Challenges and Running Safely10:01 Breaking 3 Hours and Improving Marathon Times11:59 Key Training Strategies and Mental Models14:07 The Love for Threshold Work and Speed Training16:03 The Role of Visualization and Rituals in Racing20:08 Memorable Races and Personal Highlights24:56 Building Lead Pack Athletics to Address Industry Gaps29:58 Future Goals and Vision for Running IndustryFollow Sydney:instagram.com/sydney.b.fitness/Follow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

What does it take to balance teaching at a university while running a 2:13 marathon?In this episode, I sit down with Kristoffer Mugrage a professor at Adams State University, sports psychology lecturer, and one of America's top marathoners. We dive into the mindset, consistency, and training principles that have helped him become an elite marathoner while balancing a demanding career outside the sport.We talk about Boston Marathon, running 120+ mile weeks, altitude training, fueling, sports psychology, managing stress, confidence, and why enjoying the process might be the biggest key to long term improvement.Whether you're chasing your first marathon or your next PR, Kristoffer shares practical insights that runners of every level can apply.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Kristoffer's quote on planning and belief02:09 Kristoffer's race experience and mental preparation04:03 Being in the race tent with elite athletes06:51 Training progression and early marathon times10:54 Balancing a busy career with elite training16:55 Training for mental toughness and pain management21:58 Common misconceptions about marathon training24:04 Nutrition strategies and daily calorie intake36:11 Simplified principles for marathon training38:05 Altitude necessity and its nuances43:04 Disparity between easy and speed runs46:11 Lessons from students and teaching51:03 What excellence means in running and life54:04 Closing remarks and future goalsFollow Kristoffer:instagram.com/kris_muggi/Follow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

David Mullarkey left the Isle of Man to chase a dream that most people thought was impossible. After moving across the world to compete in the NCAA, spending months without a sponsor, and burning through his savings with only one month of rent left, he finally got the email that changed everything—Under Armour was signing him as a professional runner.In this conversation, David shares what it was really like leaving home, adapting to life in America, competing in the NCAA, coaching himself after college, racing for Great Britain, and why patience has been the biggest advantage throughout his career.We also talk about high-mileage training, altitude in Flagstaff, becoming part of Mission Run Dark Sky, why championship racing means more than fast times, and the mindset behind the word “Relentless”—the tattoo he carries as a reminder to keep moving forward no matter what.If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to become a professional runner, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Chapters00:00 Introduction and David's background01:24 Growing up in Isle of Man and early dreams04:14 Signing with Under Armour and turning pro06:50 Transitioning from NCAA to professional athletics11:55 Training at altitude and its effects18:54 Representing Great Britain and major competitions22:50 The importance of patience and long-term goals30:01 Daily training routine and managing workload40:06 Mental resilience and overcoming setbacks45:01 Future goals and upcoming racesFollow David:instagram.com/david.mullarkey/Follow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

He Couldn’t Swim 15 Feet. Now He’s Racing 140.6 Miles | Casey WatsonBorn With One Arm. Couldn’t Swim 15 Feet. Now He’s Racing 140.6 Miles.Casey Watson once jumped into a pool believing his marathon fitness would carry him through a lap. Fifteen feet later, he was standing up, out of breath, and realizing he had no idea how to swim.That moment became the start of something much bigger.In this episode, Casey shares how he taught himself to swim, adapted a bike he could race safely, survived the fear of open water, and went from finishing his first triathlon to standing on podiums at 70.3 races and the Boston Marathon.Now he is preparing for the biggest challenge of his life: 140.6 miles at Challenge Roth in Germany.This is Casey Watson on The People Run Podcast.Chapters00:00 From 15 Feet to a 2.4-Mile Triathlon Swim07:59 Building a Triathlon Bike He Could Ride13:39 Surviving the Swim, Taking Third in His First Triathlon26:26 His First 70.3: Breaking Six Hours and Winning His Division33:40 Why He Has to Work Twice as Hard43:07 Training for Triathlon Without Losing Family Time46:28 What His Kids See When He Races48:37 Racing Boston Marathon Alone at the Front52:50 Challenge Roth: 140.6 Miles in GermanyFollow Casey:instagram.com/healthy_living4god/Follow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

This week on The People Run, I’m joined by Olivia, a former British Army soldier, fitness presenter, runner, and HYROX athlete.We talk about the rise of run clubs, why HYROX has exploded in popularity, and what so many people are really searching for when they sign up for races, join a community, or take on hard challenges.Along the way we discuss Olivia’s path from the Army into fitness media, how running became more than exercise, racing around the world, the culture surrounding HYROX, social media authenticity, and why community might be the most underrated part of endurance sports.Chapters00:00 HYROX, Half Marathons & Why Everyone's Obsessed08:49 The Accidental Path: Army, Media & Staying Busy12:51 How Running Became Her Identity19:31 Why We Fly Across The World To Run25:36 Preparing For HYROX31:07 HYROX: Online vs Reality39:40 What's The Point? Social Media & Authenticity45:41 Why We Keep Doing Hard ThingsFollow Olivia:instagram.com/oliviacoxlondon/Follow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

At 13 years old, Sean Casey was told he may never walk again.After being diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, Sean went from playing football with his friends to spending 94 days in the hospital, learning how to walk, use his hands, and rebuild his life from the ground up. Just as he recovered, he faced another serious illness that put him back in the hospital.Today, Sean is running marathons, chasing a sub-3, and taking on one of the toughest races in the world: Leadville 100.In this episode, Sean shares his journey through paralysis, recovery, identity, endurance sports, and why movement is something he'll never take for granted again.Chapters00:00 From Football to Paralysis06:38 The Recovery Nobody Sees17:09 How Running Changed Everything22:09 Why Leadville Became the Dream27:47 100 Miles of Chosen Suffering31:41 Tokyo, Failure & The Sub-3 Chase41:25 What Makes Someone Strong?42:28 Defining Strength: Consistency Through Adversity42:58 Preparing for Leadville: Lessons Learned44:21 The Leadville Dream and Community Impact47:38 Authenticity in Running: Staying True to OneselfFollow Sean:instagram.com/takethestairs1/Follow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

Stefanie Corgel is a runner, strength coach, entrepreneur, and founder of Good Pain LA. In this conversation, we discuss her journey from college strength coach to online fitness entrepreneur, what marathon training has taught her about longevity, and why getting faster sometimes means staying healthy rather than pushing harder.We dive into injuries, marathon majors, Boston and New York, chasing ambitious goals without losing yourself in the process, and the lessons learned from nearly blacking out during the London Marathon. Stef also shares her approach to strength training for runners, balancing performance with long term health, and how running has evolved from a personal pursuit into an opportunity to lead and build community.Chapters00:00 College Strength Coach to Online Fitness Entrepreneur04:02 Training for Life at 7012:19 Getting Faster: Injuries, Tokyo & Marathon Goals22:00 Why Boston Is Running's Super Bowl32:09 Why New York Will Always Be Special34:32 How Far Can We Push Our Potential?42:59 Chasing Sub-3s Without Losing Yourself47:04 Strength Training for Runners53:55 Building Good Pain LA & Becoming a Leader59:18 Evolving as a Leader in the Running CommunityFollow Stef:instagram.com/stefcorgel/Follow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

Malik J, better known as The Running Gamer, found a way to combine two passions that don't often overlap: running and video games.In this episode, Malik shares how a simple challenge led him into the sport, why he nearly walked away from running after college, and how Detroit's running community helped bring him back. We talk about building a unique identity online, racing two 5Ks in less than 12 hours, traveling to Spain for the Seville Marathon with ASICS, and the lessons he's learned chasing faster times.Most importantly, Malik explains why runners get into trouble when they start comparing themselves to everyone else and why trusting your own process matters more than copying the pros.Whether you're training for your first race, chasing a marathon PR, or trying to find your place in the running community, this conversation is a reminder that there is more than one path to success.Chapters00:00 Back to Back 5Ks & Chasing Sub 1706:25 The Running Gamer: Combining Gaming & Running11:10 How Running Changed His Life15:51 From Spartan Races to a 2:37 Marathon20:56 Don't Train Like Everyone Else26:23 Experiencing the Seville Marathon32:56 NYC Half Marathon Experience42:12 Berlin, Bigger Goals & What's Next46:25 The Detroit Running CommunityFollow Malik:instagram.com/mjordan5.0/Follow The People Run Podcast:instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

Olympic Trials qualifier.Elite 15 Hyrox athlete.Most athletes spend their entire careers chasing excellence in one sport. Alyssa McElheny is doing it in two.In this episode, Alyssa shares her journey from spending more than a decade chasing an Olympic Trials qualifier to becoming one of the fastest Hyrox athletes in the world. We talk about finding the sport she was built for, balancing elite marathoning and hybrid racing, and why success often comes from leaning into your strengths rather than forcing a path that isn't meant for you.We also dive into racing across Europe, dealing with pressure when everything is on the line, the lessons learned from years of marathon training, and how a two-minute penalty ended up changing the course of her season.It's a conversation about patience, resilience, self-belief, and what can happen when preparation finally meets opportunity.If you enjoy the episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another runner.Chapters00:00 What Is The Secret? OTQ + Elite 15 Hyrox03:13 The Accidental Path Into Hyrox07:37 10 Years Chasing An Olympic Trials Qualifier15:20 The Advantage Of Being The Underdog24:17 Can You Be Great At Both?32:12 The Threshold Effect: High Rocks Training Benefits33:15 Comparing Endurance Sports: High Rocks vs. Marathon37:11 Training Challenges: Overcoming Weaknesses in High Rocks38:18 The Art of Photography: Capturing Athletic Momentselite39:07 Culinary Adventures: Food and Travel in Competition41:18 Traveling with Purpose: Balancing Competition and Exploration44:22 The People Behind The Performance52:07 All Eyes On Hyrox WorldsFollow Alyssa:Instagram: instagram.com/alyssamcelheny/Follow The People Run Podcast:Instagram: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube: The People Run PodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/

In this episode of The People Run Podcast, I sit down with Zach Bitter, one of the fastest 100 mile runners in history, to talk about training, longevity, recovery, and what it really takes to improve over the long term.We dive into why Zach has incorporated cycling into his training, how he thinks about consistency versus hero workouts, and why many runners may be overemphasizing mileage at the expense of quality. Zach also shares his thoughts on recovery, gut training, super shoes, the evolution of endurance sports, and what he’s learned after years of competing and coaching at the highest level.Whether you’re training for your first 5K, a marathon, an ultra, or simply trying to stay healthy and consistent, this conversation is packed with practical insights that apply far beyond running.Chapters00:00 Why Zach Bitter Replaced Miles With the Bike05:23 Super Shoes, Gut Training, and the New Era of Training13:05 How Fast Can a Human Run 100 Miles?17:37 Why Zach Loves Running in Circles20:40 The Risk of Chasing Personal Bests26:50 When Do Runners Actually Peak?28:44 Why Fitness Is Built in Layers33:14 The Only Workouts Zach Cares About38:15 Balancing Training, Work & Family41:19 The Problem With Chasing Volume49:20 Why Running Advice Gets Lost Online54:16 Where Is Running Technology Headed Next?01:05:38 Has Zach Solved the Puzzle Yet?Follow Zach:Instagram: instagram.com/zachbitter/Follow The People Run Podcast:Instagram: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube: The People Run PodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/

Bailey didn’t plan on building one of the biggest run clubs in America. What started as an idea for a running clothing brand eventually turned into Cooldown a community now spanning 18 cities and helping reshape modern run culture.In this episode of The People Run Podcast, Bailey shares how Cooldown accidentally exploded, why run clubs became the new social space, and what it actually takes to build community across cities while keeping the same vibe everywhere. We also talk about the current running boom, modern run culture, brand partnerships, and what’s next for Cooldown.From handing out gels during her first marathon to building one of the most recognizable run communities in the country, this was a fun one.Chapters00:00 How It Started05:49 City by City11:14 Building The Culture17:15 The Cooldown Experience23:09 Partnerships26:13 What It's Taught Her29:13 What's Next for CooldownFollow Cooldown :Instagram: instagram.com/cooldownrunning/Follow The People Run Podcast:Instagram: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube: The People Run PodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/

Kara never planned for running to become her life.Before coaching runners, building a community, and becoming one of the first women to complete all seven World Marathon Majors, she was pursuing dance and theater in New York City while trying to figure out where life was taking her.In this episode, Kara shares the leap from corporate life into coaching full time, the relationships and breakups that shaped her running journey, how she unexpectedly became faster over time, and why running eventually became about freedom more than performance.We also talk about race anxiety, building confidence, mental performance, balancing coaching while training at a high level, creating community through running, and what it really feels like to build a life around something you genuinely love.This is one of the more honest conversations we’ve had about identity, growth, and what running can become when it turns into more than just training.Chapters00:00 The Turning Point: From Dance to Running06:20 The Coaching Leap12:13 Finding Her Voice16:08 Chasing Seven Stars20:56 Freedom & Getting Faster28:27 Inside Her Training31:03 Lessons From The Marathon39:51 The Mental Side of Racing47:47 Building Something Bigger53:09 Community & Connection57:46 Betting On HerselfFollow Kara:Instagram: instagram.com/karagracedudley/Follow The People Run Podcast:Instagram: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube: The People Run PodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/

In this episode of The People Run Podcast, Fitz sits down with Under Armour pro runner Kasey Knevelbaard for a conversation on racing, mindset, gratitude, and what it really means to chase your potential in today’s golden era of running.From Team Mission Run Dark Sky and life as a professional runner to racing internationally, injury prevention, shoe innovation, and learning how to stay present in competition, this episode goes far beyond splits and training plans.Chapters00:00 Chasing The Best Version of Yourself03:11 Why Running Times Keep Getting Faster05:57 The Pressure of Competing In A Golden Era09:01 Mental Performance & Letting Go of Outcomes17:58 Finding The Heart Of The Race20:41 Small Town Runner to NCAA28:42 Training With The Best in Flagstaff35:25 Why Pro Running Still Feels Like a Dream38:49 Why Racing Different Distances Matter44:18 Durability, Ego & Staying Healthy54:48 Racing the World with Gratitude01:04:13 Inside Running's Innovation EraFollow Kasey:Instagram: instagram.com/kaseyknevelbaard/Follow The People Run Podcast:Instagram: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube: The People Run PodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/

Paxton Smith accidentally qualified for the Olympic Trials in his first marathon but the real journey started after that.In this episode, Paxton shares the long process of chasing a 2:15 marathon while balancing full-time teaching, coaching, high mileage training, and life in Miami after running at the University of Colorado.Chapters00:00 Accidental First Marathon OTQ05:39 Chasing the Dream at Coloarado08:30 From Boulder to Miami, Teaching, Coaching & High Mileage11:57 Failing Forward Toward 2:15 Marathon20:54 Japanese vs. Kenyan Running Culture23:27 Inside Iten: The Home Of Champions25:48 What Kenya Taught Him27:30 Breaking the Barrier to 2:1531:09 The Army Behind the Breakthrough33:47 Behind the Scenes: The Reality of Training35:04 Elite Training, Coaching & What Comes NextFollow Paxton:Instagram: instagram.com/paxtonsmith18/Follow The People Run Podcast:Instagram: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube: The People Run PodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/

Born in Belarus in the aftermath of Chernobyl, Tanya Khvitsko-Trimb grew up between orphanages, boarding schools, and years of hiding her prosthetic legs from the world. In this episode, Tanya shares her journey from Belarus to the United States, getting her first running blades, discovering freedom through running, and eventually chasing big goals like the Boston Marathon. We also talk about identity, motherhood, recovery from injury, what people misunderstand about disability, and why she wants to be seen as more than just “inspiring.”This is one of the most honest and powerful conversations we’ve had on The People Run Podcast.Chapters00:00 Growing Up After Chernobyl05:03 Finding a Future In America10:14 The Day Running Found Her15:08 Running on Blades17:32 The Cost of Competing20:54 Boston, Falling, and Getting Back Up29:13 Running as Gratitude32:04 More Than an Inspirational Story35:43 The Reality Behind the Story39:31 Freedom Through Running42:17 Healing, Patience, and Running45:14 Effort Over ExcusesFollow Tanya:Instagram: instagram.com/tanyakhv/Follow The People Run Podcast:Instagram: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube: The People Run PodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/

In this episode of The People Run Podcast, Fitz sits down with Aycan Kara a civil engineer who started running and lifting in her late 20s and is now preparing for the HYROX World Championships.Aycan shares her journey from growing up in Turkey to discovering fitness after moving to the United States, how consistency changed her life, and what it’s been like balancing HYROX training with a full-time engineering career.They talk about overcoming gym intimidation, racing HYROX doubles with her boyfriend, training for her first marathon, chasing big goals while staying realistic, and the emotional story of racing alongside her dad in Turkey a moment that inspired her entire family to become more active.Chapters00:00 From Turkey To Hyrox Worlds06:17 Learning Fitness One Step At A Time12:30 The Hyrox Lesson That Changed Everything16:51 Balancing Engineering & Elite Training18:10 Starting Hyrox Together23:26 How To Start Hyrox The Right Way25:11 Racing Alongside Her Dad30:41 A Year Of Big Firsts37:33 Facing Hyrox Worlds42:16 Im Not Special, I StayedFollow Aycan:Instagram: instagram.com/aycan.fit/Follow The People Run Podcast:Instagram: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube: The People Run PodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/

Professional runner Nell Rojas joins The People Run Podcast for an honest conversation about identity, recovery, and rebuilding her relationship with running.After stepping away from racing while battling Lyme disease and multiple co-infections, Nell opens up about the physical and mental toll of losing the thing that once defined her, learning how to slow down, and finding perspective through it all.We talk about the road to finally getting answers, how chronic illness changed her relationship with running, fear and validation in elite sport, signing with Altra during recovery, coaching athletes through breakthrough moments, and what it really takes to compete at the highest level.This episode is about more than racing. It’s about purpose, perspective, and learning who you are when running gets taken away.This is The People Run.Chapters00:00 Where Running Left Nell Rojas03:28 When Her Body Started Breaking Down12:25 The Long Road to Answers15:04 A  Different Relationship With Running18:03 Coaching Through Recovery21:33 Missing Running & Learning Patience27:48 Finding New Opportunities32:05 What it Takes To Compete At The Top37:21 This Is Part Of The Process43:07 Why Running Still MattersFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Nell:IG: instagram.com/nell_rojas_running/Photo Credit to Joe FriendSubscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

Keira D’Amato has built one of the most inspiring stories in running.From stepping away from the sport to coming back and breaking records, she’s become one of the most respected voices in distance running.But this time… she had to stop.In this conversation, Keira opens up about what it actually feels like when running the thing that gives you purpose, structure, and community is suddenly taken away. From injury and surgery to rebuilding from zero, this is a raw look at identity, patience, and starting over.We also get into race day rituals, international racing, the evolution of the sport, and why running today might be in its golden era.This isn’t just about elite running.It’s about what happens when you’re forced to slow down and how you build yourself back up again.Chapters00:00 The Injury09:33 Choosing Surgery12:13 Life Without Running14:58 Race Day Mindset18:12 How Strava Jokes Started18:50 The Big Reset21:13 Kilometers vs. Miles23:38 Favorite Races and International Races29:18 Would Keira Write Another Book?34:11 Women's Running and The Growth of the Sport40:02 Are We in the Golden Era of Running?41:43 Starting Over and Beginning Again44:55 The Power of Small Wins49:26 What's NextFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Keira:IG: instagram.com/keiradamato/Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

The Boston Marathon means something different to everyone.For some, it’s chasing a PR.For others, it’s years of work just to get to the start line.And for some, it’s something much deeper than the race itself.In this episode, four runners share their Boston experience from completely different perspectives  from a 2:31 performance, to a pro debut, to a dream years in the making, to a story of resilience and redemption.Same race.Different journeys.Different meaning.Chapters00:00 Max - 2:31 PR at Boston07:53 Polly - Pro debut at Boston12:30 Emily - Chasing The Dream Race17:19 Maurice Boston in a Suit21:37 What Boston Marathon Meant30:31 The Hardest Moments38:17 The Magic of Boston

There are hard things… and then there’s choosing to run 100 miles in circles.Sean Rhodes is getting ready for the Stoney 100, 400 laps around a track, but this isn’t just about distance. It’s about purpose. It’s about pushing into uncomfortable places and seeing what’s on the other side.We talk about what it actually takes to train for something like this, the mental lows that hit in the middle of an ultra, and what happens when you come out of it stronger than you expected. But this goes deeper than running.Sean shares the path that led him here  from a rough stretch earlier in life, to finding discipline through bodybuilding, to building something meaningful through running. We get into chasing big goals, balancing life outside of training, and why sometimes the hardest things we choose end up teaching us the most.This one isn’t just about a race. It’s about the kind of person you become while chasing something that big.Chapters00:00 The Stoney 100 - More Than a Race08:08 Training for 100 Miles on a Track10:05 Building The Stoney 10016:37 2:44 Marine Corps Marathon to BPN 50 Miler 6 Days Apart22:05 Can You Do It ALL? Lifting + Running + Ultra29:22 How Running Found Him33:05 Faith Running & Purpose36:46 Why He Chooses Hard Things38:55 Being Present Beyond Running40:33 Big Goals at Chicago Marathon after Stoney 10045:50 How He Recovers From Big Miles48:55 A Rough Past and a Turning PointFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Sean:IG: instagram.com/sean.rhodes/Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

Anthony Di Paolo has done it all Ironman, ultras, and now over 20+ HYROX races, including competing at Worlds.In this episode, we break down what actually matters if you’re trying to get better at HYROX and what most people are getting wrong.From going out too fast on race day, to trying to train everything at once, to the mental side when a race doesn’t go to plan this is a real look at the mistakes, lessons, and adjustments that come with chasing progress in a hybrid sport.If you’re training for HYROX, thinking about it, or just trying to balance strength and endurance without burning out this one’s for you.Chapters00:00 Why Hyrox04:48 Ironman to HYROX06:25 Transitioning to High Rocks and Early Success09:07 First HYROX to Worlds10:43 Doing Too Much & How He Trains Now14:59 HYROX Mistakes on Race Day19:45 Threshold Training Insights 25:28 Pro Weights, Podiums, The Diffrence31:16 When It Doesn't Go Right36:51 The Hybrid Athlete's Dilemma40:33 Where Progress Comes FromFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Anthony:IG: instagram.com/anthony__dipaolo/Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

Scott wasn’t supposed to walk.Now he’s chasing 100 miles.This isn’t a clean, polished story. It’s what it actually looked like growing up being told what he couldn’t do, dealing with how people saw him, and figuring it out the hard way.At one point he stopped going outside. Didn’t want to be seen. Didn’t like what he saw in the mirror.Now he’s training for distances most people won’t even attempt.We talk about the part people don’t see the pain, the judgment, the self doubt and the decision to keep moving anyway.“No one’s better than you. You just have to go again.”Chapters00:00 Disney Full Circle Moment06:07 " I Wasn't Supposed to Walk... Let Alone Run"09:57 Challenges Chasing 100 Miles Despite the Odds14:25 The Reality of Running in ExoSym20:37 When It all Broke Down23:30 It Wasn't the Pain32:50 I Was in a Hole35:28 Hearing What People Really Thought38:41 Why Running43:20 Bigger Than Running49:18 The Next Challenge AwaitsFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Scott:IG: instagram.com/living_adaptive/Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

David stopped running for years after back issues and thought that chapter was over.At 74, he found his way back building a daily run streak and rediscovering something he thought he lost.We talk about what that actually looks like, how he adapted his running, and why showing up every day changed more than just his fitness.Chapters00:00 Running Again at 7404:18 How He Runs Every Day Without Breaking09:17 Defiance11:47 Family Support and Sharing the Journey16:53 Reflections on Running and Life Lessons20:32 His Running Form & Technique23:14 Consistency Over Intensity 27:16 Why He Keeps the Same Course28:58 Nutrition and Lifestyle Choices30:18 Community Engagement and Support32:22 Tracking the Journey & Daily Rituals37:55 The Gift of Running Again38:53 It's never Too LateFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow David:IG: instagram.com/run.anotherday/Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

In this episode of The People Run Podcast, Fitz sits down with Rio Mata to talk about what it really means to build yourself through adversity.At a young age, Rio faced injuries, family challenges, and isolation. Instead of folding, he found the gym, leaned into discipline, and started chasing something bigger. That path led him into bodybuilding, running, coaching others, and now preparing for one of the toughest 100 mile races in the country.This conversation goes beyond training. It’s about learning through struggle, investing in guidance instead of going it alone, and developing the mindset to keep showing up when things aren’t ideal. From running a marathon through pain to using breathwork to stay locked in, Rio shares how he’s continuing to evolve and push his limits.Chapters00:00 Early Struggles & Finding the Gym04:34 Taking the Risk (Hiring a Coach)08:10 Why Doing It Alone Keeps You Stuck13:00 The Breathwork Trick That Helped Him Run Through Pain19:03 Coaching Others & Leading a Team22:14 Purpose & Doing Hard Things30:00 Mindset, Identity, Belief37:39 First 100 Miler: Why IMTUF?40:04 Training for the Mountains From Texas42:19 What He'd Tell His Younger SelfFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Rio:IG: instagram.com/itsriomata/Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

After years of chasing a sub 3 marathon, Bobby finally hit his goal… and started asking what was next.Instead of doubling down on running, he decided to try something completely different stepping on a bodybuilding stage for the first time.Chapters00:00 After Sub 3 : What Now?03:09 Marathoner to Physique Prep06:26 Can a Runner Build Stage Ready Physique?09:29 Teaching Himself Bodybuilding (No Coach)12:09 The Experience on Stage15:19 Show Day vs Race Day Pressure18:28 Winning His First Show: 1st Novice, 3rd masters23:04 Parallels Between Running and Bodybuilding28:02 What Bodybuilding Taught Him About Glycogen and Underfueling30:26 The Importance of Nutrition in Training31:57 Surprising Himself. " I Didn't ThinkI Belongned"33:27 What's Harder: Marathon Training or Bodybuilding Stage?35:37 Applying Bodybuilding to Marathon Training (San Diego Build)38:07 Utilizing Bodybuilding Techniques in Running40:31 Chasing 2:50 at San Diego Marathon43:25 Balancing Training, Family, and Life47:18 What He's Building NextFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Bobby:IG: instagram.com/vividcoachingllc/Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

Eric went from a D1 basketball background to competing in Hyrox and recently dropped 8 minutes off his time.In this episode, we talk about what actually helped him improve: running on tired legs, speed work, race strategy, and the reality of Hyrox.We also get into balancing training with a full schedule, the mental side of racing, and why you just have to show up and figure it out.Chapters00:00 4:45 AM Mornings, Coaching & Training Balance09:05 Sacrifices vs Tradeoffs in Pursuing Fitness12:56 D1 Basketball at Northwestern19:11 Basketball to Hyrox22:10 Getting Humbled in His First Hyrox26:17 How He Trains Now & Running on Tired Legs28:50 Inside Hyrox: Stations, Pacing & How Hard it Really is31:25 His Best Race & Breakthrough33:42 Hyrox Progress: How He Dropped 8 Minutes35:24 Why Shoes Can Make or Break Your Race37:20 170 BPM MID Race What to Do41:29 Race Smart: Strategy, Pacing, and Just Starting44:20 Goals + Future in Hyrox45:58 Advice for FirstTime HyroxFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Eric:IG: instagram.com/ez.train/Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

In this episode of The People Run Podcast, I sit down with Amy Hoagland a full time neurosurgery nurse practitioner chasing elite level running while balancing work, family, and everyday life.Chapters00:00 Amy's Breakout Half Marathon04:22 130° Sauna Cycling at Hotworx08:08 Racing Mesa & Catching Elites Runners10:03 Why Amy Runs 90% of Her Miles on a Treadmill14:21 Marathon on a Treadmill + Chasing OTQ18:00 Gaining Weight & Getting faster than Before24:21 Injury & Finding Balance 25:33 What Working Hard Looks Like Now 28:39 4am Mornings, Kids, and Making Elite Level Training Work34:34 Boston Marathon Then vs Now: Running it as a Mother40:16 Support and Family in Athletic Pursuits47:12 Getting Faster Intentional TrainingFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Amy:IG: instagram.com/tinkgoestoarizona/👉 Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

Asia, also known as Brown Bambi, joins the show to talk about her journey from the 400m hurdles to the marathon, coaching athletes while still competing herself, and what it takes to stay confident and authentic in the sport.We talk about sprinting vs distance running, balancing coaching with chasing your own goals, brand partnerships, and finding your own style in running.Chapters00:00 Sevilla Marathon Felt Diffrent05:22 Making The Marathon an Experience09:18 NCAA 400m Hurdle Lessons11:51 Sprinting vs Distance Running16:21 Coaching Insights on Mechanics19:52 Becoming the Runner You Believe You Are24:35 Building Her Own Lane in Coaching31:29 The Marathon Reveals Who You Are37:07 Coaching While Still Competing 43:36 Running Community in Detroit47:25 Authenticity in Brand Partnerships51:05 Style, Asics & Expression in RunningFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Asia/Brown Bambi:IG: instagram.com/brown_bambi/👉 Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

Michelle Baxter has been running for more than 20 years and she’s still chasing progress.In this episode of The People Run Podcast, Michelle shares what it really takes to stay consistent in running for decades. From early morning runs in −20° weather to raising a family while training for marathons, she talks about discipline, stacking years of consistent training, and the mental battles that show up late in the race.We talk about falling in love with the process, learning through injuries and setbacks, and why progress in running is rarely linear.Because after 20 years in the sport, Michelle is still asking the same question many runners are:How much better can I still get?Chapters00:00 Running in −20° Weather04:29 Training Consistency & Sleep10:53 The 8 Year Journey to Sub 3 Marathon17:05 The Sub 3 Finish Line Moment19:18 Training Process & Balancing Running With Family26:14 Getting Faster After 4030:13 The Missing Piece: Mental Side of Running32:49 Stacking Training Cycles35:28 Houston PR Attempt & Mile 22 Incident37:51 Boston Marathon & Choosing The Right Races42:32 Long Term Ceiling & Why She RunsFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Michelle:IG: instagram.com/therunnersplate/👉 Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

Ultra runner Sierra DeGroff joins The People Run Podcast fresh off a podium finish at Jackpot 50 to talk about one of the wildest challenges in endurance running: racing Western States and Badwater just eight days apart.We break down what that experience was really like  the recovery, the mental battle, and what it takes to compete at that level.Sierra also shares her journey through ultra running, from podium finishes to the brutal Wyoming Range 100, pacing elite runners like Tara Dower, and balancing high level training with a full-time job.We also talk about the rapid rise of the women’s field in ultra running, fueling strategies, recovery, and what keeps her chasing her potential.Chapters00:00 Jackpot 50 Podium and PR06:53 Heat Training in Las Vegas11:24 Western States → Badwater in 8 Days23:00 The Western States Experience34:22 47 Hours in the Wyoming Wilderness37:52 Pacing Tara Dower at Black Canyon43:12 The Rise of Women in Ultra Running45:13 Experimenting with Nutrition and Recovery48:18 Balancing Work and Ultra Training53:05 The Toughest Race: Wyoming Range 10058:39 Still Chasing Potential01:00:48 Planning the Next Racing Season01:04:23 Advice for New Ultra RunnersFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Sierra:IG: instagram.com/sdegroff/URL: sierradegroff.com👉 Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

At 26 years old, Nathaniel was diagnosed with cancer.While sitting in a hospital room, a friend made him promise something unexpected run a marathon after he recovered.He hated running.Today, he’s known as “Cheezy” a smiling marathoner chasing big dreams and using his story to inspire runners and young cancer survivors that you are not defined by your diagnosis.Chapters00:00 Cancer at 2604:04 The Marathon Promise in the Hospital12:07 The First Marathon: Vancouver & The Cutoff Panic15:45 Crossing the Finish Line19:25 Cancer Changed My Perspective22:03 Why He Keeps Running23:24 Running Around the World27:16 Indy Marathon: Full Circle & A Tough Day34:39 A Diffrent Approach: Hiring a Coach40:32 The Big Dream: Boston & BQ43:39 Inspiring OthersFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Cheezy:IG: instagram.com/cheezy_run/👉 Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

Bianca was once an elite athlete whose entire identity was built around performance.When figure skating ended and running stopped being fun, she walked away from racing for nearly five years.In this conversation, we talk about losing the joy of running, rebuilding a healthier relationship with the sport, separating performance from identity, and what it really takes to come back stronger mentally and physically.Chapters00:00 Meeting Bianca in Seattle06:01 When Running Stopped Being Fun16:39 Separating the Sport from the Disorder20:25 Loosening the Grip on Goals35:43 Training With Intention41:04 Running on Vibes49:15 You Can Do Anything Not All at Once55:33 Why are You Running Today ?Follow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Bianca:IG: instagram.com/b1ancagram/👉 Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.Bianca references the “identity house” concept from author Brad Stulberg (via the Rich Roll Podcast)

Felicia Pasadyn, an accomplished runner with a background in competitive swimming. Felicia shares her journey from swimming to running, discussing the valuable lessons learned from her swimming career, her inspirations, and her commitment to endurance sports. She reflects on the mental and physical aspects of training, the importance of goal-setting, and her eventual return to running after a successful swimming career.

Felicia Pasadyn doesn’t train like most elite runners and that’s exactly why her story is interesting.In this episode we talk about her Olympic Trials qualifying performance at the New York City Marathon, recovering from injury while preparing for Boston, and the unconventional approach she uses: lower run mileage, heavy cross training, strength work, and long term thinking instead of short term PR chasing.🎙 The People Run Podcast The runs behind the runners.Chapters00:00 How She's Training Right Now03:56 Entering The Pro Field08:04 Why She Doesn't Train Like Other Runners11:49 Balancing Elite Running & Becoming a Doctor20:59 Training Outside Zone 223:40 The New York Marathon Experience26:26 When She Realized She Qualified 31:43 Sharing Life and Training on Social Media38:06 Her Boston Marathon MindsetFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Felicia:IG: instagram.com/wellfeliciafit/👉 Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

This rebuild didn’t happen in one race  it happened over years.In this episode, Max Sauers breaks down how he rebuilt his body to run 2:32 after injuries, setbacks, and hard lessons from multiple marathons along the way, including Chicago and most recently Buckeye.This isn’t about chasing a perfect race. It’s about identifying weaknesses, committing to strength, increasing mileage the right way, and letting consistency do the work. We cover what actually changed, why it wasn’t nutrition at first, how fueling had to evolve with volume, and what it takes to stay sharp across distances.We also get into what Instagram doesn’t show, the role of the Rebuild Running Team, and advice for runners focused on long term, sustainable progress.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Max Sauers04:15 Where everything changed08:15 Addressing injuries & weaknesses12:29 Why it wasn’t nutrition, it was strength19:33 From 1700 miles to 2500 miles a year 33:38 Fueling had to grow with the mileage40:46 Staying sharp at every distance44:08 What Instagram doesn't show49:34 Rebuild Running Team52:22 Advice for RunnersFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Max:IG: instagram.com/run.with.max/Strava: https://strava.app.link/79lq8eUaXZb👉 Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

In this episode of The People Run Podcast, I sit down with Maurice Lowman, a runner known for his consistency, positivity, and deep commitment to the running community.Maurice has completed 44 marathons, including seven Boston Marathons, and often races in a suit to give back and raise awareness for causes he believes in. We talk about marathon longevity, training through setbacks, strength work, and the role community plays in long-term consistency.Maurice also shares how running became a steady anchor during a major life reset not as a shortcut or fix, but as something that gave structure, accountability, and purpose over time. This conversation is a reminder that running isn’t just about finish times it’s about showing up, staying grounded, and continuing to move forward.Chapters00:00 The Journey Begins: From Sobriety to Marathons03:27 The Boston Marathon: A Dream Realized06:43 Running in a Suit: A Unique Challenge09:27 The Power of Gratitude in Running12:43 Exploring the Ultra Community15:30 Training and Strength: Balancing Running and Lifting32:02 The Journey of Strength Training and Injury Prevention35:13 Facing Challenges: The Chicago Marathon Experience39:01 The Importance of Community and Support43:00 Giving Back: The Role of Charity in Running46:55 Finding Purpose Beyond Running57:37 Taking Small Steps Towards ChangeFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Maurice:IG: instagram.com/marathonpandamaurice/👉 Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

Patryk Odedina didn’t grow up loving running he came from basketball, where running usually meant punishment. But after starting in 2019, everything changed.In this episode, we talk about why the New York City Marathon might be the perfect first marathon, even though it’s one of the hardest. Patryk shares what keeps bringing him back year after year, how crowd energy can completely change a race, and why comparing marathon times across courses misses the point.We also get into racing smarter after a marathon, using lower mileage to unlock PRs, experimenting with nutrition without overtracking, and how NYC run clubs shape one of the strongest running cultures in the world.From Tokyo to Jersey City to five races in ten days, this conversation is about learning the sport through experience and letting running fit into your life, not take it over.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the People Run Podcast03:23 Patrick's Running Journey06:25 Transition from Basketball to Running09:20 Experiences with Marathons and Major Races12:22 Cultural Insights from Running in Japan15:13 Future Plans and Upcoming Races22:35 The Best Marathon Experience27:29 Personal Bests and Race Experiences31:09 Training Philosophy and Race Strategy37:46 Nutrition and Performance Insights51:47 Exploring the Science of Running Nutrition54:17 The Unique Experience of Project 13.157:15 The Culture of NYC Running Clubs01:01:18 Balancing Life and Running in NYC01:06:05 The Journey of a Content Creator in Running01:16:54 Looking Ahead: Future Projects and CollaborationsFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Patryk:IG: instagram.com/regularpatryk/👉 Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

Don joins The People Run Podcast and shares his journey through running, discipline, community, the training principles that helped him break plateaus and build purpose. From 5K breakthroughs to creating Heart on Fire, this episode dives into mindset, consistency, strength work, and the power of showing up.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the People Run Podcast04:05 Don's Running Journey and Goals07:00 Training Techniques and Speed Work10:01 Strength Training and Cross-Training Strategies12:52 The Importance of Core and Stability Training15:58 Weekly Training Schedule and Recovery18:38 Community Engagement and Heart of Fire20:08 Thoughts and Future Aspirations23:58 Training Regimen Breakdown25:47 The Importance of Consistency in Fitness26:58 Freddie's Transformation Journey29:59 The Evolution of Personal Training34:25 Hard on Fire: The Birth of a Fitness Community37:23 Boot Camp Experience: What to Expect41:12 Favorite Workouts and Training Philosophy44:39 Nutrition and Fueling for Performance46:40 Nourishing Choices: A Look at Diet and Nutrition49:22 Balancing Alcohol and Fitness: A Personal Journey55:30 Content Creation: Merging Passion with Purpose57:22 The Marathon Mindset: Training, Family, and Balance01:04:18 Future Aspirations: Building a Community Through RunningFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Don:IG: instagram.com/runstrongdon/👉 Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

In this episode of the People Run Podcast, Jeff Humphrey shares his incredible journey of losing 200 pounds not once, but twice. He discusses the mental and physical challenges he faced during his transformation, the importance of nutrition and training in ultra running, and the role of community support in achieving personal goals. Jeff emphasizes the significance of patience, consistency, and focusing on non-scale victories in the weight loss journey. He also shares his aspirations for future races and his commitment to inspiring others through his story and coaching.👉 Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.Chapters00:00 The Journey Begins: Jeff's First Weight Loss Story19:25 The Struggle of Regaining Weight and the Path to Recovery33:10 Embracing Non-Scale Victories35:24 The Importance of Process Over Outcome37:41 Reflecting on the Journey39:11 Facing Challenges in Ultra Running47:29 The Role of Support in Endurance Events48:58 Exploring Different Race Formats53:05 Training and Nutrition for Ultra Running59:29 Finding Balance in Enjoying Food01:02:34 Advice for Those Starting Their Journey01:06:10 Future Goals and AspirationsFollow Us:IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcastMusic: instagram.com/mech__beats/Follow Jeff:IG: instagram.com/_jeffhumphrey/