The Running for Real Podcast

In need of a kick of inspiration? Hillary Allen's story will remind you of what matters. After establishing herself as one of the best trail and ultra runners in the world, Hillary fell down 150 feet down the side of a trail, a fall that could have killed her. Hillary survived, and went through devastating amount of surgeries in the months following her accident. Hearing she will never run again. Somehow through vulnerability, compassion, bravery, with a new sense of passion, love for her body and sport.

As much as we hate to admit it, injuries are very common in runners. We also veiw it as like a contagion that we do not want to "catch" from someone else. When you find yourself injured, it can feel like the running world has deserted you. This injury focused episode (although not just for injured runners) we learn how to be a better friend to those who are going through injury. Cindy Kuzma and Carrie Jackson Cheadle will give advice on how to handle the emotions and mental side of going through injury.

The US trials are a few weeks away and a lot of the talk is about the effect of carbon fiber plates in shoes on the performance of the elite contenders. Who better to talk to about this than Alex Hutchinson? Alex has written numerous articles about the shoes for national publications, and he is able to look at the upcoming trials from a neutral perspective. We discuss the future of shoes and just how much it is affecting things now. I challenge Alex here, and this was a fascinating talk. What do you think?

Alysia Montano has made the running world better in more ways than we can count. First she paved the way as one of the best middle distance in the world. Then she spoke out and forced policy changes for pregnant women and those on maternity leave through her #dreammaternity campaign. Now she is working hard in her third pregnancy to make the world a better place for women. Speak up for what you believe in, fight for what is right, and be yourself. Proud to be joining Altra's elite team with this supermom.

I always LOVE to hear from Clare in learning many and new ways to help save our lovely planet. We only do get one planet and we NEED to take care of it. Clare brings in a way of discussing environmental issues as an open conversation with people and not just shaming them into being environmentally conscious. I know it isn't the most popular chat but it needs to be out there as I have learned to stand up for what I believe in. So I hope you are open to this conversation in learning how to help our planet.

Jay Dicharry is one of America's leading physical therapists, and for years, he has been the one to watch. He is the one who is helping us to get stronger, faster, and better with our running form. He is by far the most knowledgeable person on this topic I have ever spoken to, and he is here to tell us to stop neglecting our feet. We are going to find out just how much of a difference it can make to our running, and why it's not just a case of finding a shoe that fits well.

Molly Huddle is known for her serious speed as the former American Record Holder in the 10K (and formerly 5K), and with a PR of 2:26 in the marathon, and a contender for the Olympic Team in the marathon in 2020. In this chat though, we go so much further than results. We talk about why Molly is speaking out about issues, letting go of mistakes, even if they cause you an injury that could have serious long term implications. With just over a month to go until the Olympic Trials, this is well worth a listen.

My favorite psychologist is on the show today, one of the greatest performance psychologists of our time and someone you will absolutely want to learn from, if you do not already. Dr. Michael Gervais is on the show today, and discussed vulnerability, courage, living up to expectations, whether it is possible to balance it all, goals, and so much more. This was one of my most enjoyable podcast I have ever recorded! I can't wait to hear what you think about Michael who has worked with athletes from all over.

The President and CEO of New York Road Runners, Michael Capiraso is joining us today. I have been talking about how special the culture and community at NYRR is, but I thought it was time we found out more. Seeing him standing at the finish line of a race, high fiving hundreds, if not thousands of runners, celebrating their victories. Not many CEO's do that, as well as creating a giving, loving, genuine organization like Michael has. NYRR is making our world a much better place you will want to hear more.

Now I know there are many brave people out there who have stood up for what they believe in but this persona had a special place in that area. Kara Goucher, a wonderful person who stood up to a big corporation because of her belief, that body shaming is NEVER ok. Although, standing up for what you believe in can never be easy even if you are in Kara's situation of being an elite runner. The lesson that I have learned from this episode is to show that I am brave enough to stand up for change.

Max King and James McKirdy have both accomplished a lot in their careers, but this conversation is not your typical live show. We talked about all the running for real things usually saved for the end of the conversations. We talked about the rumor of Max pinning a bib to his bare chest, and we all learned a lot on how can find balance within our worlds to love what we do, but still go hard for the things you want.

I am excited to bring you the stories of three inspiring superstars today. Joe Retherford, who lost his sight at age 17, has been through a lot to rediscover life without his sight. Janae Baron has overcome many setbacks to take her marathon PR to 2:50, and her bravery to put herself out there, though her running blog, Hungry Runner Girl. Charrissa Lin, has overcome many physical and mental struggles and still managed to compete all of the world marathon majors. This conversation was SO enjoyable and great!

Three years ago, I recorded a podcast with Chris McDougall. Chris said he was thinking of writing a book about running with donkeys, aka burro running. At first I thought he was kidding, but after he explained this ancient form of running, I know he meant it. I also knew we would love to hear more about it. Chris is on to talk about the journey he has been on with his rescue donkey, Sherman. Sharing stories of how he grew as a runner from his remarkable bond with Sherman, creating a life changing bond.

Great conversation with filmmaker Sanjay Rawal this week. When we think of running and transformation, we only think of the physical and mental aspects, BUT what if running can provide spiritual healing? You just never know when you are starting a run what you may be getting out of it until you are done. This was enlightening and thought provoking, and I think you will enjoy it too.

Fun chat with Jared Ward, the Olympian who prioritizes his family and work. We talk about his shark tank experience and how to let go of numbers that are not helping you.