Ali on the Run Show

"The whole day revolved around dance. And that, to me, was the dream." "When I'm onstage," Emily Kikta says, "no one can stop me." Emily is living every aspiring ballerina's dream: She's a corps de ballet member at New York City Ballet, where she has been a member of the company for 10 years. On this episode, Emily talks about her road to a Center Stage-like life. She grew up competing with her local dance studio, and went on to attend the School of American Ballet, which is the feeder school for NYCB. She talks about getting a job in the company, about her first performance onstage, and about how she keeps the magic alive onstage every night. She also talks about the pandemic's impact on the arts industry, and about how she and her fiancé (fellow NYCB member Peter Walker) turned to choreographing, directing, and producing during their forced time offstage. Plus, Emily talks about body image in the dance community, what a day in the life is like, and how she got into running during the pandemic. SPONSOR: Tracksmith — Use code ONTHEJOB for free shipping, plus five percent of your purchase will be donated to the Brave Like Gabe Foundation. Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"Sometimes you just need an advocate to kick you in the pants." Sarah Lesko just might be one of the most-loved women in the running industry. As the leader of corporate development for Oiselle, Sarah — or "Lesko," as most call her — is beloved by her colleagues, by Oiselle's elite athletes, and by the hundreds of members of the Volée team. So what is about Lesko that makes people so drawn to her? After hearing about Oiselle from countless women on this show — Lauren Fleshman, Sally Bergesen, Alison Mariella Désir, Rebecca Mehra, Kara Goucher, Courtney Carter — it's time to hear from Lesko herself! On this episode, Sarah talks about growing up on a commune, going to (and running for) Yale, and becoming a doctor. She talks about the health issue that forced her to take an 18-year break from running, and explains what drew her back in and got her on the run again. She talks about having kids (she's a mom to three boys) while in her medical residency, and about life as a mom and family medicine doctor. And she talks about her decision to leave the medical industry in 2015 to work for Oiselle. Today, Sarah manages Oiselle's philanthropic efforts, its Bras For Girls program, and the elite team. In this conversation, she reflects on helping grow the brand, including the initiatives she's proudest of, and the missteps along the way. Plus, she talks about why, at 52, she's proud to be "faster as a master." SPONSOR: AfterShokz — Visit ontherun.aftershokz.com for 15% off wireless headphones. EMBED EPISODE HERE What you'll get on this episode: How was your run today? (4:40) What's dominating your brain right now? (5:55) What Sarah's childhood was like as a self-proclaimed "child of hippies" (9:30) On med school, raising children during med school, and becoming a family medicine doctor (14:20) Meeting Sally Bergesen, and the road to Oiselle (22:25) Why Sarah took 18 years off of running (25:21) Reflecting on where Oiselle was at when Lesko entered the picture (29:50) On leaning in to internet culture, engaging with influencers in the running space, and starting to sign and sponsor professional athletes (34:35) What, exactly, Lesko does all day, and all about Bras for Girls (42:45) On being so loved (48:45) How Oiselle has evolved over the years (52:00) On hiring Alison Mariella Désir, and the brand's goals for DEI work (58:45) The role running plays in Sarah's life right now (1:05:25) What we mention on this episode: Sally Bergesen on Episode 48 of the Ali on the Run Show Lauren Fleshman on Episode 103 of the Ali on the Run Show Bras For Girls Oiselle Light Luxe Fabric Alison Mariella Désir on Episode 292 of the Ali on the Run Show Kara Goucher on Episode 86 of the Ali on the Run Show Running Industry Diversity Coalition Follow Sarah: Instagram @drlesko Twitter @drlesko Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"I always felt a special thrill with anchoring, but I had zero idea if I was any good at it! But there was potential there." Joelle Tomlinson wakes up at 3:02 AM — precisely — every day in pursuit of her dream job as a CTV Calgary morning news host. On this episode, Joelle talks about what it's like anchoring the news, and what her road to the news desk was like. (It involved a stopover as a weather girl!) She busts some common misperceptions about being a face on TV, talks about the pressure to look or dress a certain way, and shares the types of stories she loves covering, the ones that still give her butterflies, and the ones that have had the greatest impact on her. She talks about how she's learned to put her emotions aside when covering difficult stories, and about why, sometimes, it's OK to cry on live TV. Plus, she talks about her morning routine, dealing with criticism from viewers, and all the unseen parts of the job. When Joelle isn't live on televisions across Canada, she's most likely getting sweaty: She's an ultramarathoner and spin instructor who signed up for her next ultra within an hour of us finishing this recording! SPONSOR: Tracksmith — Use code ONTHEJOB for free shipping, plus five percent of your purchase will be donated to the Brave Like Gabe Foundation. EMBED HERE Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"It's not easy, but I'm at a point now of knowing I can handle it. It's not always fun — but I can handle it. And I know you can, too." Welcome to Ask Ali, a twice-a-month series where I answer all of your questions. This time around, we've got listener questions about why I (mostly) stopped drinking, how to practice getting comfortable saying no, wishing for a new body, what life could be like without running and podcasting, and so much more. Thanks to everyone who called in for this one. Enjoy! If you want to be part of a future "Ask Ali" episode (yay!), call 917-947-9699 — introduce yourself, and ask whatever's on your mind! I can't wait to hear from you! SPONSOR: goodr. Click here and use code ONTHERUN15 for 15% off your entire goodr order! You asked: Why aren't you drinking anymore? (2:30) How do you get more comfortable saying no? (7:20) What is my strength training routine? (14:05) Do you have any advice for mentally getting back into running when you've been sidelined for a while? (17:35) Do I ever wish for a new body? (26:35) What is my favorite race that I've announced? (33:00) What would my life be like if I didn't start podcasting and running? (38:00) What's the process of choosing guests for the Ali on the Run Show? (40:00) Tips for running in the heat (45:45) What I mention on this episode: Rebound: Train Your Mind to Bounce Back Stronger from Sports Injuries The Injured Athletes Club podcast Clearwater Running Festival 2022 Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"This is a definite compliment from Des. She was like, 'I like you enough where I can hang out with you for three hours!'" In April, Des Linden made history by making her ultramarathon debut and, in the process, breaking the world record in the 50K (2:59:54) and becoming the first woman to run a 50K in under three hours. And while Des may hold the new record, she didn't go it alone: She was joined by Charlie Lawrence. Charlie ran at the University of Minnesota, and made his marathon debut at the California International Marathon in 2018, where he ran a 2:16 and earned himself an Olympic Trials qualifying time. On this episode, Charlie talks about what it was like pacing Des that day in Oregon, including what their pre-race conversation was like, what he remembers most from the race, and what he thought about his first "Shoey." And go give Charlie some love: He'll be racing the 50K road championships next weekend! SPONSOR: AfterShokz — Visit ontherun.aftershokz.com for 15% off wireless headphones. What you'll get on this episode: How Charlie got the job as Des's pacer (4:20) How Des and Charlie met (7:45) What 2021 was looking like for Charlie on the run (9:50) How Charlie trained and prepared for the 50K (13:30) What Des and Charlie's pre-race talk was like (17:30) What the race was like (27:30) Highlights from race day (32:40) What the finish line and post-race celebrations were like (36:15) What's next for Charlie? (43:20) Is this the life Young Charlie imagined? (47:55) What we mention on this episode: Des Linden on Episode 363 of the Ali on the Run Show Billy Yang on YouTube Calum Neff on Episode 318 of the Ali on the Run Show The CIM Pacers on Episode 196 of the Ali on the Run Show Follow Charlie: Instagram @lawrence_char Twitter @lawrence_char Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"As much as this is your job and this is serious, there's a lot of fun and joy in the process." Welcome to Season 5 of the On the Job series on the Ali on the Run Show! On this series, we hear from women who have cool, unique, interesting careers — and who also happen to be runners. We're kicking off this season with Rikki Gimelstob, a casting director who works on films, television shows, commercials, and theater productions. (Most recently, Rikki worked on the upcoming Dear Evan Hansen film, and the new AMC show Kevin Can F**k Himself, starring Annie Murphy of Schitt's Creek fame!) On this episode, Rikki explains what, exactly, a casting director does. She explains how she got into the industry (it involves the opera!), and addresses whether or not what she does is actually like what we've all seen on Entourage. Plus, she talks about some of the craziest dressing room requests she's seen, and shares her thoughts on diversity in the industry. (When you're done listening, go watch this — the greatest video ever on YouTube, or anywhere.) SPONSOR: Tracksmith — Use code ONTHEJOB for free shipping, plus five percent of your purchase will be donated to the Brave Like Gabe Foundation. Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"You give yourself your own life raft, and it feels so great to come up for air and think, jeez, that was a close call! But I'm here. And it's given me strength to go further and deeper than that next time." Becs Gentry is a Peloton Tread and Strength instructor, and in March, she added another very impressive title to her fitness resume: 2:32 marathoner and Olympic Marathon Trials competitor for Team Great Britain. On this episode, Becs — who is from the UK but has lived in New York City since she took the Peloton job in 2019 — talks about what it was like being invited to compete for Team GB, and about what it took to finish fourth that day and to run a nearly five-minute personal best time. She talks about her training and how she prepared for race day, including how she balances her own training with teaching and how she survived a 22-mile run on a treadmill one day. She talks about the dark days and the tough runs, and how she got through them, and shares her own struggles with confidence both on and off the roads and treadmill. Plus, she talks about privacy and why she didn't tell her parents she was auditioning to be a Peloton instructor, and why she didn't tell people she was training for the Trials until shortly before race day. Finally, Becs talks about how she's learned to deal with the pressure of racing, whether it's an unplanned 5K (she did it once and says "never again") or an ultramarathon (of which she's done several). SPONSOR: AfterShokz — Visit ontherun.aftershokz.com for 15% off wireless headphones. What you'll get on this episode: How the opportunity to run the Olympic Trials came about, and when it first became a dream for Becs (6:45) Where Becs was at with running when she found out she would be competing in the Trials (17:00) How Becs trained for the Trials (21:00) On confidence (24:15) That time Becs ran 22 miles on a treadmill (30:20) How Becs balances teaching at Peloton with her own training (34:20) What race day was like (47:00) On dealing with tough moments during races — and getting past them (1:03:10) How Becs recovered, physically and emotionally, from the Trials and from the 2019 New York City Marathon (1:05:10) Did Becs have any idea how big Peloton would be, and how well-known she would be? (1:13:00) Why Becs didn't tell her parents she auditioned for the Peloton job (1:16:30) What we mention on this episode: Jess Sims on Episode 261 of the Ali on the Run Show Tunde Oyeneyin on Episode 311 of the Ali on the Run Show Olivia Amato on Episode 344 of the Ali on the Run Show Matty Maggiacomo on Episode 350 of the Ali on the Run Show Follow Becs: Instagram @becsgentry Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"You don't know everything. I share a lot, and that still is only a fraction of my life, of my thoughts, of my opinions, of my day." Welcome to Ask Ali, a twice-a-month series where I answer all of your questions. This time around, we've got listener questions about the mental component of Crohn's disease, my Enneagram type (3w2!), my thoughts on raising a daughter in the era of Instagram filters, getting back into running after a long break, Outback Steakhouse, "parasocial relationships," and more. Thanks to everyone who called in for this one. Enjoy! If you want to be part of a future "Ask Ali" episode (yay!), call 917-947-9699 — introduce yourself, and ask whatever's on your mind! I can't wait to hear from you! SPONSOR: goodr. Click here and use code ONTHERUN15 for 15% off your entire goodr order! You asked: How to carry things on the run (2:29) The mental component of Crohn's disease + how often I use my Peloton Tread (9:27) What is my Enneagram type? (19:59) My thoughts on raising a daughter in the time of Instagram filters and Kardashians (25:22) Advice for getting back into running after a long break (33:00) My pre-race dinner, running the Falmouth Road Race, and sounding "smooth" on the microphone (40:30) On "parasocial relationships" (46:20) What I mention on this episode: SPIBelt FlipBelt Koala Clip lululemon Far and Free Jacket Danielle Cemprola on Episode 41 of the Ali on the Run Show Audio-Technica AT2020 microphone RINGR Audacity Be There in Five podcast Clearwater Running Festival 2022 Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Like the Facebook page Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"I'm the quarterback of my life. All these different people play supporting roles, and I need all of them for sure. You can't be a team with only a quarterback. But I get to be the one in charge, making the plays. And that feels super empowering and very exciting." Colleen Quigley is arguably one of the most influential track and field athletes today. She's a professional athlete who primarily competes in the Steeplechase, and she's a Team USA Olympian, a Florida State University alum, an NCAA champion, a model, and a mental health advocate. Colleen spent the first five years of her professional career sponsored by Nike and competing with the Bowerman Track Club in Portland, OR. But at the end of 2020, Colleen announced she was making a change: She was no longer sponsored by Nike, and was leaving the Bowerman Track Club. Now, after many months of anticipation and much speculation, Colleen announced yesterday that she has signed with lululemon, and is officially a lululemon-sponsored athlete. On this episode, Colleen talks all about her decision to leave Nike and BTC, and about what this lululemon partnership looks like. She talks about what it's like navigating sponsorships in the running industry today (with the help of Allyson Felix's brother, Wes), and about why a less-traditional model works for her right now. Plus, she shares that she'll be moving to Los Angeles with her boyfriend this fall, and talks about how she's feeling heading into this summer's U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials. SPONSOR: AfterShokz — Visit ontherun.aftershokz.com for 15% off wireless headphones. What you'll get on this episode: All about Colleen's new sponsorship deal, including why she left Nike and Bowerman Track Club (4:30) What Colleen's lululemon sponsorship (or partnership!) entails (13:30) What shoes will Colleen be racing in? (23:15) What Colleen has learned about the professional running scene (26:35) Is a Peloton partnership in the works? (34:15) On speaking up, standing up, getting loud — and reading the comments (37:00) Why Colleen is passionate about mental health (46:00) How has Colleen's life been different than what she imagined? (56:00) How Colleen is feeling — physically and mentally — heading into the U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials (58:15) What we mention on this episode: Jasmine Blocker Coffey Running to Protest Colleen's "Open Letter to the Bowerman Track Club" Armchair Expert with Prince Harry Cheat Code Follow Colleen: Instagram @steeple_squigs Twitter @steeple_squigs Website Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"I really threw myself into everything that made me uncomfortable." Happy Bonus Episode Day! Cara Enright is someone I've wanted to have on the show for a long time, and I couldn't decide whether to include her in the Everyday Runner series (a runner with a full-time job and lots of hobbies!) or to share her episode on a Thursday — and so, the solution is a bonus episode, in the middle, today! Cara Enright is a New York City-based runner (and former competitive jump roper!) who works in pharmaceutical recruiting. Last month, Cara and a group of runners (including The Bachelorette's Zac Clark) completed the Goggins Challenge: They ran four miles every four hours for 48 hours straight. On this episode, Cara talks about how she got involved, how she prepared, and what the experience was like. (By the end of the challenge, the group had also raised more than $80,000 for the Release Recovery Foundation.) When she's not working or running through Times Square at 1 AM with her friends, Cara is the women's captain for the Brooklyn Track Club, and is a partner with Free People Movement. SPONSOR: Ranger Ready Repellents — Use code ONTHERUN10 for 10% off your purchase. What you'll get on this episode: All about competitive jump roping (3:45) Cara shares her running story (6:25) On navigating the New York City running scene (9:30) The role running plays in Cara's life now (18:45) How Cara's feeling after completing the Goggins Challenge (23:30) What it was actually like running the Goggins Challenge in NYC (32:10) On raising more than $80K for the Release Recovery Foundation (43:30) All about Cara's role with Free People Movement (49:30) What's next on the run? (55:00) What we mention on this episode: Cara's "butt jumping" video! Julia Lucas on Episode 356 of the Ali on the Run Show Brooklyn Track Club Electric Athletic Club Chris Chavez on Episode 262 of the Ali on the Run Show Izzy Seidel on Episode 236 of the Ali on the Run Show Izzy Seidel on Episode 341 of the Ali on the Run Show Follow Cara: Instagram @therealcaraenright Twitter @careenright Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe, and leave a rating and review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. And, as always, spread the run love by sharing this episode with your friends, family members, running buddies, or favorite internet strangers!

"I'm very proud that I have managed to, in less than a year, do four half marathons. It's not something I ever could have dreamed of doing. And I'm just proud I have really stuck it out. Because it's hard. It's not easy to try to work yourself back from a poor health standard, or to bring yourself out of that mental hole that people can fall into. I'm very proud that I have stood up and said, 'I need help, and I need to make a change.' That's a huge step for anybody to take. The fact that I've taken that step and I keep moving forward… That means a lot to me." Welcome to the final episode of the newest series on the Ali on the Run Show: The Everyday Runner. For the past four weeks, we've been hearing from runners who are just like you and me. Not professional athletes — these runners have jobs, families, and responsibilities beyond this sport we all love so much. Today, we wrap things up with Melissa Cummings, a runner — or "walker with purpose," as she likes to say — from Manchester, NH. On this episode, Melissa shares the story of wanting to take back control of her life, and how she found running, racing, and a welcoming running club along the way. She talks about that title, "runner," and shares her thoughts on whether or not she — as a four-time half-marathoner — has embraced it yet. She talks about what it was like joining the Millennium Running Club, and what it was like being named 2020's Club Member of the Year. And she talks about her experience with depression, and how running has helped. SPONSOR: Picky Bars — Visit pickybars.com/ontherun, where code ONTHERUN gets you 20% off. (Join the Picky Club and get an extra 20% off.) What you'll get on this episode: What Melissa's childhood was like as the youngest of five children (6:45) How Melissa found running (11:00) How one race became a year of races (18:45) On joining a running club (23:30) Melissa's quest to "take back her life" (33:30) On becoming a half-marathoner! (35:45) On being named Millennium Running's Club Member of the Year (45:15) What got Melissa to sign up for a marathon (50:40) On owning the title, "runner" (54:00) Follow Melissa: Instagram @mlynette01 Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe, and leave a rating and review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. And, as always, spread the run love by sharing this episode with your friends, family members, running buddies, or favorite internet strangers!

"I noticed that there were young Black girls without role models in their communities. Because of lack of representation in our society, sometimes we don't see people that look like us doing things that we want to do, so we think that we can't do it. And that definitely applied to me." As U.S. Track & Field athletes across the country gear up for the Olympic Trials (June 18–27), triple jumper and long jumper Keturah Orji is feeling good. And rightfully so: Keturah, who was named the NCAA's Collegiate Woman of the Decade, just took back the American Record in the triple jump (14.92m)! On this episode, the 2016 Olympian and five-time U.S. champion talks about what it takes to be at the top of the jumping game. (If you're new to the triple jump and long jump, fear not: Keturah offers a "Jumping 101" halfway into the episode, breaking down what, exactly, these events entail, and what it takes to master them.) She talks about how she found jumping, what her goals are for this year's Trials, and what it was like competing at the 2016 Games, where she finished fourth in the triple jump and missed making the podium by just three centimeters. Keturah currently trains at the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center in California, and when she's not there, she's working toward her master's degree in accounting. SPONSOR: AfterShokz — Visit ontherun.aftershokz.com for 15% off wireless headphones. What you'll get on this episode: On setting the American Record in the triple jump (4:30) What it was like competing at the 2016 Olympic Games, as a 20-year-old college sophomore (9:05) Keturah's race-day rituals (13:30) All about Keturah's childhood, and how she discovered running and jumping (14:30) On the decision to go pro, and what it's like training at the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Center (21:35) Are jumpers getting enough credit? (28:30) Triple Jump & Long Jump 101, and what Keturah's training looks like right now (32:20) Keturah's plans and goals for the Olympic Track & Field Trials (41:10) On being a newlywed (47:30) "I am my ancestors' wildest dreams" (51:50) What we mention on this episode: Atomic Habits by James Clear Follow Keturah: Instagram @ktorr1 Twitter @keturahorji Website Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"I feel like I'm in a good position to have a real crack at making the team." With the U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials coming up, now's a great time to get to know as many of the competitors as possible! Today (bonus episode day!), Bowerman Track Club's Sinclaire Johnson is here. Sinclaire is BTC's resident rookie: She joined the team last year, and made her official debut as a Bowerman member in February, where she ran and won the 800m at the Prickly Pear Invitational. (Not bad for the new kid!) On this episode, Sinclaire confirms that she will be competing in the 1500m at the Trials (her personal best is a 4:03.72, officially making her one to watch). She talks about running at Oklahoma State University, where she was the 2019 NCAA 1500m champion, and explains her decision to forgo her fifth-year eligibility in favor of going pro. She talks about signing with Nike, and about why she wanted to join Bowerman Track Club. (It has a little something to do with Shelby Houlihan.) Sinclaire and the team are training at altitude in Park City right now, though she otherwise calls Portland, OR, home. SPONSOR: Ranger Ready Repellents — Use code ONTHERUN10 for 10% off your purchase. What you'll get on this episode: What life is like training at altitude in Park City (3:55) Sinclaire talks about her Bowerman Track Club racing debut — and win! (12:30) How Sinclaire is feeling looking forward to the Track & Field Trials (17:45) What Sinclaire's childhood was like, and when running entered the picture (21:45) On winning NCAA Championships in the 1500m in 2019 (31:30) The decision to go pro (37:45) Why Bowerman Track Club? (43:45) All about Craig (55:00) What we mention on this episode: Shelby Houlihan on Episode 357 of the Ali on the Run Show Emma Abrahamson's "A Day in the Life of Sinclaire Johnson" video Emma Abrahamson on Episode 319 of the Ali on the Run Show Follow Sinclaire: Instagram @sinclairejohnson Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe, and leave a rating and review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. And, as always, spread the run love by sharing this episode with your friends, family members, running buddies, or favorite internet strangers!

"At times in my life when I've struggled or when I've maybe been less than my best self, my mom always asks, 'When was the last time you went for a run?'" Welcome to the newest series on the Ali on the Run Show: The Everyday Runner. On this series, we're hearing from runners who are just like you and me. Not professional athletes — these runners have jobs, families, and responsibilities beyond this sport we all love so much. Today, meet Dr. Margi Johnson. Margi is a family medicine physician and mom of three with big goals and dreams on the run. (Hint: She wants to qualify for the Olympic Marathon Trials someday, which would mean running a sub-2:45 marathon!) On this episode, Margi shares her story of being an "airlift baby," born in Vietnam and brought to the United States, where she was adopted and raised. She talks about being athletic as a child, but admits that running was never her first love. (She chose to be a jumper, because she wanted the sport that involved the least amount of running! The irony!) It wasn't until Margi was in her surgical residency — with two kids and a third to come — that she rediscovered and truly fell in love with running. Margi talks about what the past year has been like for frontline workers, shares her story of getting Covid a whopping three times, and explains her family's decision to relocate from New Jersey to Georgia. SPONSOR: Picky Bars — Visit pickybars.com/ontherun, where code ONTHERUN gets you 20% off. (Join the Picky Club and get an extra 20% off.) What you'll get on this episode: Margi shares her adoption story, and what it meant to be an "airlift baby" (6:15) How Margi became a runner — and a jumper! (14:00) The road to becoming a doctor (21:20) On rediscovering running as an adult, a resident, and a mother (29:30) When Margi finally started calling herself a runner (41:45) When Margi finds time to run, and what this past year has been like for her (50:10) Adjusting to life in Georgia (59:45) Follow Margi: Instagram @chasing_an_otq Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe, and leave a rating and review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. And, as always, spread the run love by sharing this episode with your friends, family members, running buddies, or favorite internet strangers!

Happy Mother's Day! Earlier this week, I had the honor and privilege of hosting a virtual live show with four inspiring, iconic women: Lauren Fleshman, Alysia Montaño, Stephanie Bruce, and Dawn Harper-Nelson. It was an open, honest, totally unfiltered conversation about the realities of motherhood — the good, the bad, the messy, the 4 AM feedings, and the pressure we put on ourselves to, sigh, "do it all." We talked about asking for help, and why that can be more complicated than it seems, and talked about what mothers need — like really need — to thrive in society today. (And we raised more than $5,000 for &Mother — Alysia's organization that is dedicated to breaking down barriers that limit a woman's choice to pursue and thrive in both career and motherhood — in the process!) And on a personal note: Whatever stage of motherhood you are in, please know that I see you, and you are not alone. If you're an aspiring mom, if you are trying to conceive, if you are basking in new motherhood, if you are struggling in new motherhood, if you're a seasoned mom, if you have a complicated relationship with your own mother, whatever stage or phase you are in right now, know that I see you. I see how hard you are working, how hard you are trying, how you are showing up every day, doing your best. And if no one has told you yet today: You're doing great. Truly. Mother's Day can bring up a lot of emotions for a lot of people, and I want you to protect your heart, today and always. I hope this conversation will help some people feel seen or less alone, but I also know that spending 90 minutes hearing about motherhood may not serve a lot of people right now, so please do what is best for you. [Hug.] SPONSOR: Picky Bars — Visit pickybars.com/ontherun, where code ONTHERUN gets you 20% off. (Join the Picky Club and get an extra 20% off.) For more: Lauren Fleshman on Episode 103 of the Ali on the Run Show Lauren Fleshman & Jesse Thomas on Episode 161 of the Ali on the Run Show Alysia Montaño on Episode 259 of the Ali on the Run Show Steph Bruce on Episode 104 of the Ali on the Run Show Steph & Ben Bruce on Episode 206 of the Ali on the Run Show Steph Bruce on Episode 354 of the Ali on the Run Show Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe, and leave a rating and review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. And, as always, spread the run love by sharing this episode with your friends, family members, running buddies, or favorite internet strangers!

"Having an invisible illness yourself is a constant reminder that you never know what other people are dealing with." Welcome to Ask Ali, a bi-weekly series where I answer all of your questions. This time around, we've got listener questions about what I'm looking forward to (and what I'm anxious about) as life begins to return to "normal," whether podcast guests ever annoy me, my personal running progression over the years, what life without Crohn's disease could have been like, and new motherhood. Thanks to everyone who called in for this one. Enjoy! If you want to be part of a future "Ask Ali" episode (yay!), call 917-947-9699 — introduce yourself, and ask whatever's on your mind! I can't wait to hear from you! SPONSOR: goodr. Click here and use code ONTHERUN15 for 15% off your entire goodr order! What I mention on this episode: Natalie Morales on Episode 33 of the Ali on the Run Show Matty Maggiacomo on Episode 350 of the Ali on the Run Show The Motherhood Center of New York Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Like the Facebook page Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"So, there is hope. I am still an optimist about this, and I'm doing as much as I can to keep myself healthy. If this is my destiny or whatever and there's nothing I can do to stop it, that's fine. But I'm gonna live my life to the fullest in the meantime, because nothing is guaranteed. So I'll keep challenging myself to do things while my mind and my body are able." I have been following Devon Pass since before she was Devon Pass. Devon was one of the OG bloggers in the early 2010s, and I loved following her travel adventures on Tumblr. (She was Devon Mills at the time.) Today, Devon is married to her husband, Aaron, and they live in Washington with their five-year-old daughter, Evie. Devon is a copywriter for Nordstrom (cool!), and is a six-time marathoner. We cover a lot of ground in this episode — it really was just catching up with an old friend. Devon talks about how she learned to save money in her twenties, and how she was able to support herself while she traveled the world. She talks about the moments that made her stronger along the way, and talks about how she met her now husband. She shares her running story, and talks about what she's doing right now to get faster and stronger. She talks candidly about new motherhood, and what it was like being the first in her friend group to have a baby. And she talks about her mom, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in her sixties. (Tissue warning for this part of the conversation.) It's a well-rounded conversation that perfectly showcases this well-rounded woman. SPONSOR: AfterShokz — Visit ontherun.aftershokz.com for 15% off wireless headphones. What you'll get on this episode: How was your run today? (5:30) Devon shares her running story, and talks about a recent unsettling encounter on the run (9:00) On having a goal-oriented mentality, and where that came from (22:50) Devon looks back on her time traveling the world alone in her early twenties (28:30) Reflecting on new motherhood (40:00) What Devon's days are like as a copywriter for Nordstrom (49:20) Why Devon says her marriage has been "stronger and happier than ever" during the pandemic (54:20) Devon talks about her mother's Alzheimer's disease diagnosis (1:03:30) What we mention on this episode: Down Dog app @trackclubbabe @charihawkins American Glutton podcast The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey The Art of Non-Conformity "Puzzle Pieces," Devon's post about being a new mom Keep Sharp by Sanjay Gupta Let Your Mind Run by Deena Kastor Follow Devon: Instagram @dev.on.running Blog Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"I don't chase podiums and PRs. I have a tendency to chase clocks and cutoffs. And that's fine with me." Welcome to the newest series on the Ali on the Run Show: The Everyday Runner. On this series, we're hearing from runners who are just like you and me. Not professional athletes — these runners have jobs, families, and responsibilities beyond this sport we all love so much. Last week, we kicked things off with Jen Correa, the mom of two whose family lost everything in Hurricane Sandy. Today, meet Meg Navatto! Meg is a cell genetic technologist from Long Island who started running at age 37. Meg's running story began when she and her husband set out to get healthy with a Couch to 5K program. Today, Meg is a 14-time marathoner and ultramarathoner. (She's run Badwater three times!) On this episode, Meg talks about what it took to (finally!) call herself a runner, and talks about why she's proud to be a back-of-the-pack runner. She talks about her emotions around finishing last in a race, and how that's changed over the years, and shares the story of the time she was told she was "too fat to be a runner." Meg is so fun, so inspiring, and so positive — you're going to love her. SPONSOR: Picky Bars — Visit pickybars.com/ontherun, where code ONTHERUN gets you 20% off. (Join the Picky Club and get an extra 20% off. What you'll get on this episode: What Meg's childhood was like, and how she decided on a career path (2:45) How Meg found running and, eventually, racing (6:45) Meg reflects on her first 5K (16:25) On identifying as a runner (19:00) On finishing last at races, and why the back of the pack is awesome (23:30) The allure of ultramarathons (27:30) Why Meg runs to raise money for The Herren Project, and why that cause is so important to her and her family (31:50) The time Meg was out for a training run and overheard two women say, "She's too fat to run" (42:45) What life is like for a cell genetic technologist (49:30) What we mention on this episode: Couch to 5K November Project The Herren Project Chris Mosier on Episode 13 of the Ali on the Run Show Follow Meg: Instagram @megatron_runs DONATE to The Herren Project Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe, and leave a rating and review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. And, as always, spread the run love by sharing this episode with your friends, family members, running buddies, or favorite internet strangers!

"I'm pretty close to living the dream right now." What do you do when you can't decide whether you want to go pro as a runner, or pursue your dream of being a registered dietitian? For Maddie Alm, the answer was "do both." Maddie lives in Boulder, CO, where she trains with Team Boss (coached by Joe Bosshard) and is the owner and founder of Fueling Forward, a sports nutrition consulting business. She's a former All-American from UC Boulder, and was a two-time USA Championships qualifier. Today, she's chasing a 5K qualifier so she can compete at the U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials this summer. (She recently ran personal bests in both the 3K and the 5K, so things are looking good.) And when she's not chasing down her running dreams, she's working with athletes to help them improve their relationships with food. On this episode, Maddie talks about what her training is like right now, and talks about experiencing her first year being fully healthy since college. She talks about building physical and mental toughness, and shares what failure means to her. Plus, she talks about entrepreneurship during a pandemic and shares the five foods she recommends for all runners. SPONSOR: AfterShokz — Visit ontherun.aftershokz.com for 15% off wireless headphones. What you'll get on this episode: How was your run today? (3:15) Maddie reflects on her first year since college being fully healthy on the run (6:30) On failure (11:45) Maddie's road to professional running, and how she became a member of Team Boss (15:00) What is a registered dietitian? (26:30) On launching Fueling Forward — during a pandemic! (28:15) How Maddie grew her business (33:10) Maddie talks about her own relationship with food over the years (37:30) What is "the dream?" (42:15) What are the most-asked questions Maddie gets as a registered dietitian? (43:45) What Maddie does when she's not running or RD-ing (50:15) Follow Maddie: Instagram @madsalm12 Instagram @fueling_forward Fueling Forward Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"The water took everything, but we had ourselves and all of our communities and friends who made sure we had everything else." Welcome to the newest series on the Ali on the Run Show: The Everyday Runner. For the next four weeks, we'll hear from runners who are just like you and me. Not professional athletes — these runners have jobs, families, and responsibilities beyond this sport we all love so much. First up: Meet Jen Correa! Jen is a mom of two (plus two dogs!) from Staten Island, NY. She works in insurance, and we met through the running blog world in the early 2010s, when Jen was blogging at Mom's Gotta Run. On this episode, Jen shares her running story, which started when her friend convinced her to run a Corporate Challenge race. She wasn't an athlete growing up — "I have nightmares of gym class," she says — but after her first race as an adult (and a pack-a-day smoker), she was hooked. Eventually, Jen gave up smoking, but she stuck with running, including marathons. In 2012, Jen and her family lost everything when Hurricane Sandy touched down in Staten Island. Their house was lifted off its foundation, and floated nearly a mile away. They had to start over, and on this episode, Jen, 46, talks about how, exactly, they did that. She shares her poignant takeaways from losing it all, and talks about the controversy surrounding the New York City Marathon's cancellation at the time. SPONSOR: Picky Bars — Visit pickybars.com/ontherun, where code ONTHERUN gets you 20% off. (Join the Picky Club and get an extra 20% off. What you'll get on this episode: Reflecting back on the early 2010s, and what it was like being a part of the running community in New York City during that time (5:45) Jen talks about her childhood, and about how she found running (9:00) On adopting and owning the "runner" title (15:45) On being a New Yorker on September 11, 2001 (18:30) What Jen's relationship with running was like during and after her pregnancies (20:00) Jen talks about her family's experience in the wake of Hurricane Sandy (31:30) "When you've lost everything — except each other — what do you do?" (46:00) What running — and finally running the New York City Marathon — was like after Hurricane Sandy (52:00) What it was like running the 2016 New York City Marathon representing Staten Island as part of the Foot Locker Five Borough Challenge (1:01:30) What we mention on this episode: Michele Gonzalez on Episode 87 of the Ali on the Run Show Michele Gonzalez on Episode 19 of the Ali on the Run Show Follow Jen: Instagram @jenjencorrea Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"We spend so much time in our lives comparing ourselves. So my mantra is, life isn't about what you don't have. It's what you do with the gifts you are given." Tatyana McFadden is one of the most-decorated athletes of all time. She is a 17-time Paralympic medalist (she's been competing at the Games since she was 15!) and 23-time World Marathon Majors winner, and she's currently gearing up for this year's Paralympic Games in Tokyo, where she hopes to compete in every distance from the 100m up to the marathon. On this episode, Tatyana catches us up on all that's happened since the last time she was on the Ali on the Run Show. She talks about her film, Rising Phoenix, which she both helped produce and stars in. She talks about her friendship with Prince Harry, and about being on an episode of Project Runway. And she talks about her ambitious plans for Tokyo this summer, where she will compete in the Paralympics for the sixth consecutive time. SPONSOR: AJC Peachtree Road Race — Register for this year's race today at ajc.com/peachtree. What you'll get on this episode: Tatyana talks about her upcoming race plans (4:45) How is Prince Harry doing? (6:45) All about Rising Phoenix (9:00) Tatyana's advice for extending longevity in this career (25:30) Reflecting on life a year ago (33:20) All about being on Project Runway (41:00) On Joe Biden including the word "disability" in his victory speech last year (47:20) How Tatyana trains to be successful at such a range of distances (50:45) Who does Tatyana look up to? (54:30) What the qualifying process looks like for the Paralympics (56:00) What we mention on this episode: Tatyana McFadden on Episode 115 of the Ali on the Run Show Rising Phoenix on Netflix Ya Sama! by Tatyana McFadden Follow Tatyana: Instagram @tatyanamcfaddenusa Twitter @tatyanamcfadden Facebook Website Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"I wanted this to be a show for so long where everyone loved every episode. And don't get me wrong, I'd still love for that to be the case! But I've learned that that is kind of impossible. So I'll keep trying to trust my leaky gut and hoping many people find many things to love, but knowing I can't be everything to everyone." Welcome to Ask Ali, a bi-weekly series where I answer all of your questions. This time around, we've got listener questions about building running mileage, making friends as an adult, the future of journalism, regrets, and my love for having someone else pump my gas. Enjoy! If you want to be part of a future "Ask Ali" episode (yay!), call 917-947-9699 — introduce yourself, and ask whatever's on your mind! I can't wait to hear from you! SPONSOR: goodr. Click here and use code ONTHERUN15 for 15% off your entire goodr order! What I mention on this episode: 36 Hours in Bar Harbor, Maine Emilia Benton on Episode 340 of the Ali on the Run Show Ali on the For the Long Run podcast Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Like the Facebook page Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"Things can go off the rails quick. So as much as you want to be confident and feel like it's gonna be easy, that's not how this works." Des Linden, Olympian and 2018 Boston Marathon champion, is officially an ultramarathoner. And not just an ultramarathoner: a record-setting ultramarathoner. Last week, Des made her ultra debut, racing a 50K in Oregon, and breaking a world record in the process. She finished in 2:59:54, beating the previous world record (held by Aly Dixon) by more than seven minutes, averaging a 5:47 per mile pace, and becoming the first woman to ever run a 50K in less than three hours. On this episode, Des recaps the race and talks about what it was like running in unknown-to-her territory. She shares what it takes to annoy her on the run, tells all about "The Shoey" tradition, and talks about what's most intriguing to her right now. SPONSOR: AfterShokz — Visit ontherun.aftershokz.com for 15% off wireless headphones. Listen to Des on the Ali on the Run Show: Episode 205: Love on the Run with Des & Ryan Linden Episode 100 Episode 77: Live in San Diego Episode 64 Follow Des: Instagram @des_linden Facebook Twitter @des_linden Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"I think you can almost want something too bad. Because I just wanted it so bad. I wasn't relaxed. It wasn't fun anymore. It was just tunnel vision on winning — and I wasn't winning! I wanted it so bad and it wasn't happening. It was very draining." What happens when you set big, dreamy, lofty goals — but when it counts the most, you fall short? That's what this series, "Just Missed," is about. These conversations are about dealing with disappointment. They are reminders that progress is never linear, and that it's not always the big wins or the losses that define us, but the moments in between. So far on this series, we've heard from Julia Lucas and HOKA NAZ Elite athlete Kellyn Taylor. Today, Oregon Track Club's Chanelle Price is here. Chanelle was a standout athlete in high school. She was named Gatorade's Athlete of the Year, and became addicted to winning. But when she went away to college at the University of Tennessee, she was no longer "high school Chanelle." She wasn't winning. She wasn't the fastest on the team. And she struggled. She had a goal of becoming an NCAA 800m champion, but missed that goal, finishing second at both indoors and outdoors. From there, Chanelle's running career saw high highs and challenging lows. She decided to compete at the professional level, but struggled to find a sponsor early on. In 2014, Chanelle had a breakthrough: She won gold in the 800m at the World Athletics Indoor Championships, and became the only American woman to ever win a gold medal there. She signed with Nike. She won gold — three times — as a member of Team USA's 4x800m relay at World Athletics Championships. She ran a personal best in the 800m: 1:59.10. Then, in 2017, it all came crashing down. The hits came in rapid succession: a foot fracture, a pulmonary embolism that led to blood clots in her lungs, and, ultimately, a bout with mononucleosis. All of that led to her losing her sponsor. It all could've been career-ending, but Chanelle wouldn't let that happen. She mounted a comeback — and last year, dealt with another foot fracture. Today, Chanelle is up and running (up, literally, at altitude), gearing up for the U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials. This is her story. SPONSOR: Gatorade Endurance — Shop gatoradeendurance.com and use code ONTHERUN20 for 20% off your next Gatorade Endurance order. What we mention on this episode: Athletes in Action Follow Chanelle: Instagram @cpricerun Twitter @CPriceRun7 Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"It's hard for me to be back here in a lot of ways. Because it sometimes brings me back to being that little Cynthia, and feeling like my voice doesn't matter because of the color of my skin or my hair. Like people don't care about what I have to say. And that's why this film is so important to me. I want these kids to be heard. I want them to know that they do matter." Cynthia Martinez is a 12-time marathoner and four-time Boston Marathon qualifier who has run races on four continents, completed 16 international races, and won races in Thailand and Dubai. She's a mom, a journalist (she earned her Master's degree from Columbia), and a filmmaker. And right now, Cynthia is producing a film inspired by her own life experiences and her pursuit of higher education. First Voice Generation follows six first-generation Latinx college students, and documents how they are overcoming the challenges of a global pandemic while pursuing their own collegiate careers. On this episode, Cynthia reflects (powerfully; have tissues nearby) on her own childhood as the granddaughter of Mexican migrant farm workers and hard-working parents who worked multiple jobs, and talks about the struggles her family faced. She talks about abuse and alcoholism in her home growing up, and talks about how she is rebuilding her relationships with her parents now, as a mother herself. She talks about the jobs that led her to becoming a filmmaker — including nannying for the 1% in New York City and working at Univision — and explains the role running has played along the way. (Want to support First Voice Generation? Check out the film's Kickstarter here.) SPONSOR: AfterShokz — Visit ontherun.aftershokz.com for 15% off wireless headphones. What you'll get on this episode: All about First Voice Generation (4:27) Cynthia reflects on her own childhood (12:00) How Cynthia found running (20:00) Why Cynthia is a fan of only running three days a week during marathon training (23:00) Cynthia talks about her running travels (31:45) Cynthia's road to becoming a mother, and her postpartum experience (35:00) Cynthia's career evolution, and how she became a filmmaker (51:30) How to support First Voice Generation (59:35) What we mention on this episode: First Voice Generation on Instagram @firstvoicegeneration First Voice Generation Kickstarter Upward Bound Chris Heuisler on Episode 265 of the Ali on the Run Show Kate Pallardy on Instagram @katepallardy Lynn McGrew on Episode 339 of the Ali on the Run Show Follow Cynthia: Instagram @runningjourno First Voice Generation on Facebook YouTube Kickstarter Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"I think that in order to do special things, especially in running, you really have to put yourself out there. And a lot of times, it doesn't go how you want it to. But you can learn a lot from the times that don't go right. When things go right, you're like yeah, that was fun, that was easy… But the ones where you really have to work for it, you really have to put your head down and grind it out, go to a dark place, get it done — you grow so much more in those situations, and you take so much more away from those times." What happens when you set big, dreamy, lofty goals — but when it counts the most, you fall short? That's what this series, "Just Missed," is about. These conversations are about dealing with disappointment. They are reminders that progress is never linear, and that it's not always the big wins or the losses that define us, but the moments in between. Last week, we heard from former professional runner Julia Lucas. This week, HOKA NAZ Elite athlete Kellyn Taylor is here. Throughout her professional career, Kellyn has seen some major breakthroughs and has celebrated plenty of exciting moments. There was her win at the 2018 Grandma's Marathon, where she ran a 2:24 just eight weeks after dropping out of the Boston Marathon. In 2019, she ran a personal best in the 5K, finished third at USATF Outdoor Championships, and placed seventh at the New York City Marathon. But along the way, she's dealt with some tough stuff, too. There was that DNF in Boston. Injuries. And a handful of near-misses in pursuit of becoming an Olympian — most notably, in 2016, when she finished sixth at the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, and then finished fourth in the 10K at the Track & Field Trials a few months later. Then, last year, she hoped to make the U.S. Olympic Marathon Team — again — but finished eighth. Now, Kellyn, who is also a mom, a foster parent, and a trained firefighter, is gearing up for this summer's Track & Field Trials, where she again hopes to make the 10K team. SPONSOR: Gatorade Endurance — Shop gatoradeendurance.com and use code ONTHERUN20 for 20% off your next Gatorade Endurance order. What we mention on this episode: Steph Bruce on Episode 354 of the Ali on the Run Show A Time and A Place Follow Kellyn: Instagram @kellyn_taylor Twitter @kellyn_taylor Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"I wish more people looked at them as humans first and were not scared… They don't know what to say, they don't know how to act. They may be well meaning, but they don't see it's just OK to talk to them like you would talk to anyone else. They're like anyone else in that they seek connection, attention, and love from the people around them." We're wrapping up Season 4 of the On the Job series today, and we're doing that by giving a big round of applause — let's make it a standing ovation — for all the teachers out there. Teachers have been thrown so many curveballs and challenges in addition to what is already not easy work, and today, Caitlin Dalton is here to talk all about what the past year has looked like, and to reflect on pre-pandemic life in the classroom. Caitlin is a middle school special education teacher, and she is the teacher we all want or want our children to have. She is so passionate, so enthusiastic, and cares so deeply about her work. Caitlin works with students with severe disabilities, and is happy to shed light on all the great things these students are capable of. She also talks about the emotional component of her work, and about why burnout is so common among teachers. When she's not teaching, Caitlin is an ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapist for clients with autism, is an assistant cross-country coach at the school, and is, of course, a runner herself. SPONSOR: Tracksmith — Go to tracksmith.com/ontherun and use code ONTHERUN for $15 off your first Tracksmith order of $75 or more. Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"It was such an immediate shift for me. I realized, this is what I need to do to love running again." Welcome back to Ask Ali, a monthly series where I answer all of your questions. This time around, we've got listener questions about running without a watch, advice for first-time marathoners, my favorite things to make right now, and building confidence. Plus, an Annie cameo! Enjoy! If you want to be part of a future "Ask Ali" episode (yay!), call 917-947-9699 — introduce yourself, and ask whatever's on your mind! I can't wait to hear from you! SPONSOR: goodr. Click here and use code ONTHERUN15 for 15% off your entire goodr order! What I mention on this episode: Run Fast. Eat Slow. Run Fast. Cook Fast. Eat Slow. Rise & Run. Coach Cane & Nicole Sin Quee on Episode 313 of the Ali on the Run Show Hamptons Marathon recap "11 Ways I Improved My Confidence" Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Like the Facebook page Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"We get on the line and yeah, we're competitive with each other, but as soon as we cross that line, we're each other's biggest fans." Shelby Houlihan and Karissa Schweizer are two of the fastest women on the planet right now. They run for Nike's Bowerman Track Club, and seem to have found the perfect balance of being both great friends and teammates and fierce competitors. On this episode, Shelby and Karissa — a treat to get to talk to them together! — talk about their relationship, how they first met, and what each of their respective "first runs with the Bowerman team" were like. They talk about what it's like knowing your toughest competition is right by your side — or right on your heels — at practice and on race day. And, of course, they talk about gearing up for this year's Olympic Track & Field Trials, where Shelby will compete in the 1500 and Karissa in the 5K. They talk about their biggest dreams (bringing home gold), their greatest fears, and the time they secretly went skydiving. Come for the friendship. Stay for the spontaneous ukulele concert. SPONSOR: AfterShokz — Visit ontherun.aftershokz.com for 15% off wireless headphones. What you'll get on this episode: How was your run today? (3:20) The ways in which Shelby and Karissa are most similar, and which ways they're totally different (5:20) How Karissa and Shelby met (14:00) Recapping Karissa's win at last year's 3000m National Record BU Last Chance Invitational (25:30) On bonding (26:55) What Shelby and Karissa were like when they were younger (28:00) What the Bowerman Track Club women do off the track (36:15) A ukulele concert, courtesy of Shelby! (45:30) What the vibe is like at a Bowerman Track Club practice (48:00) Looking forward to the Olympic Track & Field Trials (54:30) What we mention on this episode: Gabriela DeBues-Stafford on Episode 353 of the Ali on the Run Show Follow Shelby: Instagram @shelbo800 Twitter @shelbo800 Follow Karissa: Instagram @karissaschweiz4 Twitter @karissaschweiz4 Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"There are so many times you start on a journey and somewhere along the way you realize, this isn't where I wanted to go. The beginning of this was right, and then somewhere I took a turn or didn't take a turn, and I ended up somewhere entirely different. And it caused a meltdown. Do I love running? What in running do I love? Can I get back to what I love?" What happens when you set big, dreamy, lofty goals — but when it counts the most, you fall short? That's what this series, "Just Missed," is about. For the next three weeks, these conversations are about dealing with disappointment. They are reminders that progress is never linear, and that it's not always the big wins or the losses that define us, but the moments in between. First up: a conversation with former professional runner Julia Lucas. Today, Julia is a writer and a run coach in New York City. But in 2012, she was running professionally with the Oregon Track Club, and her goal was to make her first Olympic team in the 5K. She lined up at the start line at the Olympic Track & Field Trials in Eugene, OR, as the hometown hero. She wanted the win. She knew she could win. She made her move early and she held it — for a while. Ultimately, though, it was the fourth-place finish seen around the world. That day at Hayward Field, Julia missed becoming an Olympian by one one-hundredth of a second. On this episode, she recounts that day and the emotions surrounding it — the buildup, the pressure, the expectations, and the aftermath. She talks about the role running plays today, and answers the question of how — or whether — that day at the 2012 Trials defined her. SPONSOR: Gatorade Endurance — Shop gatoradeendurance.com and use code ONTHERUN20 for 20% off your next Gatorade Endurance order. What we mention on this episode: "A Race is a Race," by Julia Lucas for Freeplay "The Inspiring Endurance of Coffey, The Leader of New York City's Protest Runs," via GQ Running to Protest Follow Julia: Instagram @justrunjulia Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Like the Facebook page Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"If you want to do this job, you have to be willing to assume that you could be wrong about just about everything. You need to be willing to look everything up." Carla Benton gets paid to read all day. Sound like the dream? As a freelance book copy editor and proofreader, Carla agrees: She's living her dream. (She worked on 70 books last year alone!) On this episode, Carla (whose twin sister, Emilia, was on the show a few weeks ago) offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to get a book published. She started her career in publishing in New York City, where she worked for major publishing houses including Simon & Schuster, Macmillan, and Penguin, before moving to Chicago and going freelance. She has contributed to hundreds of books and best-sellers — including running books, like Deena Kastor's Let Your Mind Run and Becky Wade's Run the World. Carla also talks about the difference between copy editing and proofreading, what it's like editing fiction novels set amidst the pandemic, how Covid-19 is changing the industry, and diversity in publishing. SPONSOR: Tracksmith — Go to tracksmith.com/ontherun and use code ONTHERUN for $15 off your first Tracksmith order of $75 or more. Follow Carla: Instagram @cnbenton_ Twitter @cnbenton1 Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"I have this insatiable need to find out how good I can be. I just want to see how fast I can run and what I can accomplish. If I can make an Olympic team, if I can win the New York City Marathon. And just daring to try is what fills me with so much purpose in my daily life. Anytime I have an obstacle, I'm like yeah, but nothing else fires me up more than clawing my way back to fitness." Steph Bruce returns to the Ali on the Run Show today! Steph is a professional runner for HOKA NAZ Elite in Flagstaff, AZ, and today, we're catching up to hear how Steph's running has been going in the past year. Steph talks about the disappointment of finishing sixth at last year's U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, and about how she grieved that outcome. She talks about resiliency, and about "writing her own running obituary" after tough races. And she talks about recovering and returning to the sport she'll always love. Steph offers an update on her recent plantar fasciitis injury, which forced her to drop out of The Marathon Project in December (spoiler: she's back to running 90-mile weeks!), and talks about her plans for the U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials this summer, where she'll be racing the 10K. Plus, she talks about being a role model in the sport, about what the pandemic has been like as a mom of two young boys (Riley and Hudson), and about why she thinks people follow professional runners. SPONSOR: AJC Peachtree Road Race — Register for this year's race today at ajc.com/peachtree. What you'll get on this episode: How was your run today, Steph? (2:55) Running as a team sport vs. individual pursuit (6:45) What it was like re-living the 2020 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials through A Time and A Place, and what the aftermath of that race was like (8:35) Reflecting on the earliest days of the pandemic (20:00) On the U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials, and Steph's love for the 10K (25:20) Competing at the Sunset Tour 10K and the Marathon Project in 2020, and the Plantar Fasciitis injury that came next (31:15) On being a role model in this sport (37:45) Steph talks about writing her own "running obituary" (41:30) Steph shares her ultimate running dreams and goals, and what's next (47:00) Why do people follow professional runners? (53:40) An update on how Steph's mom — who was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer last year — is doing (1:00:10) What does GRIT mean to Steph right now? (1:03:15) What we mention on this episode: Steph Bruce on Episode 104 of the Ali on the Run Show Steph & Ben Bruce on Episode 206 of the Ali on the Run Show A Time and A Place Follow Steph: Instagram @stephrothstein Twitter @steph_rothstein Facebook Blog YouTube Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Like the Facebook page Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"I think about it a lot, like what do I want to add to this sport? What do I want to add to my life, and what do I want my legacy to be? And I feel like it would be a hollow journey if I didn't try to use my platform to spread a good message to make change." Gabriela DeBues-Stafford is having one heck of a year so far. In her debut season training and competing with the Bowerman Track Club, the Canadian professional middle-distance runner and 2016 Olympian has run — and won — two races already, including the 3000m at the Prickly Pear Invitational (where she also ran a personal best), and the 1500 at the Texas Qualifier in Austin (where she generously donated her winnings to Austin Mutual Aid). And Gabriela is doing all of this having joined the team during the pandemic, and while dealing with a Graves disease flare. On this episode, Gabriela shares her experience with a chronic autoimmune disease, and explains how it has affected her running over the years. She talks about training with the Bowerman team (and Coach Shalane!), and about being the first Canadian woman to break four minutes in the 1500. Gabriela is currently the Canadian record holder in the mile, the 1500, and the 5K — so what will it take for her to make Canada's Olympic team this year? She explains the Canadian qualifying process, and assures us that things are looking good for her heading into the 2021 Olympic Games. Plus, she talks about being queer, about proposing to her now-husband, Rowan, and about their love story. SPONSOR: AfterShokz — Visit ontherun.aftershokz.com for 15% off wireless headphones. What you'll get on this episode: All about Gabriela's hair (3:00) How Gabriela's feeling at the start of the 2021 season (8:25) Gabriela's experience with Graves Disease (11:30) On running that 4 x 1 mile workout after the Prickly Pear Invitational race (24:30) Why Gabriela donated her winnings to storm relief efforts after the Texas Qualifier (25:45) On being an outspoken advocate (30:25) Gabriela explains the Canadian Olympic team qualifying process (38:20) What it was like competing at the 2016 Olympics in Rio (44:45) On what it takes to be a professional runner in Canada (47:00) Why Gabriela left Scotland to join Bowerman Track Club (51:15) How Gabriela met her now-husband, Rowan (1:00:00) All about training with Coach Shalane Flanagan (1:07:20) What we mention on this episode: Austin Mutual Aid Follow Gabriela: Instagram @gabrielastafford Twitter @gstafford13 Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"It's terrifying. But I think that's a good thing." This week on the job, we're headed to the courtroom! Catherine McNamara is a public defender in Massachusetts — a job she says is often mischaracterized and misunderstood. So she's here to clear things up. Catherine talks about what makes her work hard, stressful, important, and rewarding, and talks about what it's like in the courtroom. She also talks about developing the confidence needed to be a litigator and trial attorney. SPONSOR: Tracksmith — Go to tracksmith.com/ontherun and use code ONTHERUN for $15 off your first Tracksmith order of $75 or more. Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"It's the most popular club that no one wants to join." Welcome to the monthly edition of Ramblings on the Run with Ali and Matt! This month, Matt Chittim — host of the Rambling Runner podcast and the Road to the Trials podcast — and I catch up on how our running is going, share what we're loving right now, and talk about what we're excited about. And then, we have a little March Madness fun — with a twist. It's the "Ramblings on the Run Fictional 5K," and we've got brackets! What we mention on this episode: Millennium Running Natural Born Heroes by Christopher McDougall You're Wrong About podcast Follow Matt: Instagram @rambling_runner Rambling Runner podcast Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Like the Facebook page Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"Being able to come to work as my whole self. Being able to be out. Being able to appear on camera in drag. Hopefully for those of you that are out there listening, if you work at a company or a place where you cannot be yourself — and I know you need to make the money — it is not worth it. It is not worth it to stifle that magic. You will slowly die inside. Go work for a place where you can be Mara every single damn day. Let your freak flag fly and be who you wanna be. We are too advanced in this society to be squandering any time on not being able to be ourselves." Growing up in Rhode Island, Matty Maggiacomo had a tumultuous — and at times traumatizing — relationship with sports and coaches. But today, he's a fitness instructor on the world's largest streaming platform. On this episode, Matty talks about how he rediscovered fitness later in life, and how he got the job teaching treadmill and strength classes at Peloton. He talks about his dreams of being on TV, including how he made those dreams come true right out of college, and why that dream came to a screeching halt on an assignment one day. Plus, Matty talks about his sexuality and about coming out, and about the importance of letting his "freak flag fly" at work — which means we get to hear from Mara Thonner, Matty's treadmill-running alter ego, and about what it's like teaching a live class for thousands in full drag! Matty is a true joy, and this conversation is long, fun, and filled with hefty doses of both laughter and inspiration. SPONSOR: AfterShokz — Visit ontherun.aftershokz.com for 15% off wireless headphones. What you'll get on this episode: On taking time off (9:15) How Matty would describe his Peloton classes (11:00) Getting to know Young Matty (15:45) All about the NBC Page program, and working in live television (22:30) How Matty got the job at Peloton (34:45) How you learn to be a Peloton instructor (39:15) On the magnitude of it all (49:35) MARA joins the show! (54:20) On the Peloton family, and how Matty feels about his colleagues (1:02:15) Matty shares his most memorable Peloton memory thus far (1:06:30) What we mention on this episode: Jess Sims on Episode 261 of the Ali on the Run Show Tunde Oyeneyin on Episode 311 of the Ali on the Run Show Olivia Amato on Episode 344 of the Ali on the Run Show Veneno It's a Sin "The Original Jess Sims Scare" Follow Matty: Instagram @mattymaggiacomo Twitter @mattymaggiacomo Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"It's definitely not like Suits. It's way more like The Office." For Victoria Asikis, grocery shopping is the best. As a lawyer working in regulatory compliance for food and beverage products, strolling the aisles is basically doing market research. And on this episode, we learn what, exactly, a food lawyer does. (It's pretty fascinating stuff!) Victoria lives in Ottawa, Ontario, where she is a part of the advertising and product regulatory group at Gowling WLG, a large multinational law firm. She spends her days making sure that every word, statement, or claim on a food, beverage, or natural beauty product (like your favorite cereal box, bag of granola, or chemical-free face wash) is true and accurate. She is also the Communications Director for the Hellenic Canadian Lawyers' Association. And turns out, it's really cool work! Victoria is so passionate about what she does — and you'll be able to tell within the first two minutes of this conversation! SPONSOR: Tracksmith — Go to tracksmith.com/ontherun and use code ONTHERUN for $15 off your first Tracksmith order of $75 or more. Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"Having a baby is not the end of your running goals and dreams." Welcome back to Ask Ali, a monthly series where I answer all of your questions. This time around, we've got listener questions about running after having a baby, podcasting behind-the-scenes, getting into freelance writing, stroller recommendations, and my real thoughts on Taylor Swift's folklore vs. evermore. Enjoy! If you want to be part of a future "Ask Ali" episode (yay!), call 917-947-9699 — introduce yourself, and ask whatever's on your mind! I can't wait to hear from you! SPONSOR: goodr. Click here and use code ONTHERUN for $10 off! What I mention on this episode: Episode 174: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Ali on the Run Show Emilia Benton on Episode 340 of the Ali on the Run Show Molly & Izzy Seidel on Episode 341 of the Ali on the Run Show Uppababy Vista stroller Thule Urban Glide II jogging stroller Colugo Compact stroller Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Like the Facebook page Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"There comes a certain time that you just need a break. You're human. You don't have to feel great all the time. It's OK to be in touch with your feelings and say, 'I don't feel great, and I'm going to take five days off.' It's fine!" Blanca Grinkovitch is a 20-time marathoner, Ironman, lululemon ambassador, director at New Jersey treadmill studio Juma Fit, and mom of twin boys. She runs a 3:07 marathoner and a 1:29 half-marathon, and today, in her fifties, she's running stronger and healthier than ever. On this episode, Blanca talks about how she has stayed happy and healthy on the run for decades at a time. She has boundless energy and excellent advice, and you're going to love her! SPONSOR: AfterShokz — Visit ontherun.aftershokz.com for 15% off wireless headphones. What you'll get on this episode: Blanca's advice for how she is stronger than ever in her fifties (5:00) Did Young Blanca envision this future for herself in the fitness industry? (10:00) Blanca reflects on her first race in Central Park (14:45) How Blanca met her husband, and what their first date (a 17-mile run) was like (19:00) How running changed after having twins (24:00) On start line imposter syndrome (30:15) What running looks like for Blanca right now (35:50) Blanca's advice for jumping out of bed in the morning (40:50) What "Coach Blanca" is like (45:00) What we mention on this episode: The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah Follow Blanca: Instagram @bgrinkfit Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"People should feel like they have a real say in the decisions that impact their everyday lives." Beth Huang says community organizing is on her mind 24/7. As the Director of the Massachusetts Voter Table voting rights organization, it's her life's mission to get everyone everywhere (starting in Massachusetts!) registered to vote and showing up to vote. Beth and the MA Voter Table don't care how you vote — it's a nonpartisan organization — they just want you to have answers so you know how to register, how to get to the polls (no easy task in 2020!), and how to stay active in your own community. On this episode, Beth explains how they actually do this. She talks about the importance of caring about your local community, and about why it's not just the big elections every four years that matter. The MA Voter Table is especially focused on BIPOC communities, and on creating a more equitable and even playing field. This episode is a great reminder about the importance of civic access (that everyone who wants to vote can vote), civic engagement (that everyone who can vote does vote), and civic responsibility. SPONSOR: Tracksmith — Go to tracksmith.com/ontherun and use code ONTHERUN for $15 off your first Tracksmith order of $75 or more. Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"In order for me to light the world on fire — I am going to do amazing things in Tokyo — I'm going to train smart, I'm going to stay out of trouble, and I'm going to stay injury free. Because I believe in my heart that even four months of training, I am going to be super fit and I'm going to have an amazing race in Tokyo. I just hope that my body is in tune with my mind. Because I know in my mind that even though I just had a child, that's not going to be a barrier. I'm not going to make excuses. My child is going to be the motivation for me, and I know I have what it takes to succeed in Tokyo." Aliphine is back! Back on the run (!!!), and back on the Ali on the Run Show. The last time Aliphine Tuliamuk — the 2020 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials champion — was on the show, she was eight months pregnant, readying to give birth to a baby girl. And now, that baby girl is here: Zoe was born on January 13, 2021, and on this episode (her first postpartum podcast interview!), Aliphine reflects on her pregnancy, on giving birth, and on the first few weeks of new motherhood. She also talks about her careful and calculated return to running, as she prepares to compete at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics representing Team USA. Aliphine is open, honest, and holds nothing back. SPONSOR: AJC Peachtree Road Race — Register for this year's race today at ajc.com/peachtree. What you'll get on this episode: The advice Aliphine received as she prepares for her return to running (5:30) Reflecting on pregnancy, labor, and delivery (7:45) Aliphine's post-birth scare (24:55) On having a support system (30:15) What has surprised Aliphine most about new motherhood (39:15) Raising a child in the U.S. vs. Kenya (42:25) Aliphine talks about her deliberate and careful return to running and training (50:30) Aliphine talks about watching A Time and A Place, and looks back at the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials experience (1:00:50) On finding support within the professional women's running community (1:09:20) What we mention on this episode: Aliphine Tuliamuk on Episode 315 of the Ali on the Run Show A Time and A Place Follow Aliphine: Instagram @aliphine Twitter @aliphineT Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Like the Facebook page Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"The only person who can make you feel good about yourself is yourself. You really have to feel confident in who you are and what you bring to the table, and know that you're enough. That's your foundation." Ask any Peloton devotee about instructor Olivia Amato, and you'll probably hear the same phrase over and over: "She's a real-life Energizer Bunny." Olivia is one of the few Peloton instructors who can "do it all" — she teaches on both the bike and the treadmill, and teaches strength classes. (Her core classes will leave your entire body quivering.) But Peloton wasn't always the plan for Olivia. Though she was super sporty growing up, a guidance counselor suggested she pursue a career in finance. So when Olivia graduated high school, that's exactly what she did: went to college and then went on to Wall Street, where she worked in sales and trading. Though she thrived in the fast-paced, high-stress environment, she hated it. It wasn't her passion. She loved fitness, and as soon as she had her "a-ha" moment, that's where she headed. She got certified, got hired at a spin studio and a boxing studio, and was suddenly teaching 30 classes a week. Today, though, Olivia has found happiness, true joy, and balance as a Peloton instructor. On this episode, she talks about dealing with burnout, what to do when you realize you're not happy and need to pivot, and how she's built her confidence over the years. ("And I'm still working on it," she assures.) Peloton friends, join the fun — add the #FriendsofAliOTR tag to your profile so we can cheer each other on and swap high fives! SPONSOR: AfterShokz — Visit ontherun.aftershokz.com for 15% off wireless headphones. What you'll get on this episode: Olivia's take on being a "real-life energizer bunny" (4:50) Getting to know Young Olivia (9:00) On pursuing a career in finance (12:45) How Olivia broke into the fitness industry, and how she got the job at Peloton (18:25) All about Olivia's Breakthrough Runs, and a behind-the-scenes look at the programming at Peloton (29:00) On teaching in an empty room during the pandemic (40:40) What don't we know about Olivia Amato? (45:15) On the evolution of Olivia (49:00) Is there pressure to look a certain way in the fitness industry? (54:00) What we mention on this episode: Jess Sims on Episode 261 of the Ali on the Run Show Tunde Oyeneyin on Episode 311 of the Ali on the Run Show M61 Skincare Follow Olivia: Instagram @oamato Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"I used to be a morning person. I'm not a morning person anymore!" Liz Lemon was always destined to do two things: run and help people. Liz (and yes, she gets a lot of 30 Rock references thanks to her name) comes from a family that runs and practices medicine, so it's no surprise that Liz would do the same. She's a night shift nurse in the emergency room at a hospital in California (though she's currently on leave on account of a broken hand), while also pursuing her master's degree in nursing education. When she's not in the ER, Liz is on the run: She's a 3:44 marathoner, 1:29 half-marathoner, and 17:54 5K runner. On this episode, Liz talks about what it's really like working the front lines in a hospital (and she insists that despite what we see on Grey's Anatomy, "people aren't really hooking up in the break rooms"), explains what her days and nights really look like, and shares some of her most memorable stories from the hospital. SPONSOR: Tracksmith — Go to tracksmith.com/ontherun and use code ONTHERUN for $15 off your first Tracksmith order of $75 or more. Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"Once I started to believe in myself and believe I was faster — which is the power of the mind — I started showing it." Ce'Aira Brown wants you to know that she's still running. She's still training (alongside Ajeé Wilson), and she's still staying true to her "talk less, grind more" mentality. (And when she's not on the run training for the 800m or 1500m, she's on the runway, modeling.) On this episode, Ce'Aira — who is a former NCAA All-American and 2016 Olympic Trials qualifier who formerly trained with Frank Gagliano and now runs professionally for Hoka One One — talks about her running journey and her career. So why don't people think she's running? Because you're pretty unlikely to see a lot of running "content" on her Instagram feed. But Ce'Aira promises, she's more in it than ever. In honor of International Women's Day, she talks about the women who inspire her, and she talks about being a role model herself. She explains why, after running a 2:02 season opener in Austin two weeks ago, she's "not satisfied, but hungry," talks about the power of positivity and hard work, and talks about how she's built mental strength and confidence. SPONSOR: Hoka One One. Check out Hoka's just-released Mach 4 at your local JackRabbit store, or by visiting jackrabbit.com. Follow Ce'Aira: Instagram @ceairachristine_ Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"The worst thing you can do is count yourself out." Last year, Molly Seidel ran her first marathon — at the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, where she finished second and earned herself a spot on the U.S. Olympic Marathon Team. And she'll be the first to tell you that she wouldn't have gotten to that start line without her #1 fan: her sister, Izzy. Now, one year later, Molly is a professional runner for Puma, training for the 2021 Olympics, and Izzy is her self-appointed hype girl. On this episode, the Seidel sisters — who are roommates in Boston — talk about what their family was like growing up, and about how their lives have changed since the Trials. Plus, they talk about the importance of "the pursuit of fun" in everything they do, and share their experiences with the comparison trap, imposter syndrome, and building confidence. (Pro tip: Having a hype girl helps!) SPONSOR: goodr. Click here and use code ONTHERUN for $10 off! What you'll get on this episode: Which of Molly's races has been the most challenging? (4:30) How Molly's feeling after her 68:29 half-marathon PR (and race win!) in Atlanta last weekend (8:50) All about Molly's attitude when it comes to racing (11:00) On getting the call that the 2021 Olympics are happening (!!!), and what her training will look like leading up to Tokyo 2021 (18:20) Is Molly moving to Flagstaff? (25:30) Looking back at the 2020 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, and what that day was like for the Seidels (35:40) Molly and Izzy talk about their childhood and what growing up together was like (43:30) What we mention on this episode: Izzy on Episode 236 of the Ali on the Run Show Molly's slow mile Follow Molly: Instagram @bygolly.molly Follow Izzy: Instagram @isabelseidel Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"I kind of spiraled into this years-long cycle of trying to constantly seek improvement in my times and not give myself a break when I really needed it." If you've read an article about running in the past few years (which, who hasn't?), you've probably read something by Emilia Benton. Emilia is a freelance journalist (we talk a lot about her transition to going freelance after working in the magazine industry, and about why she's so much happier on her own) and is a regular contributor at Runner's World, Self, Women's Health, Shape, Popsugar, Prevention, Verywell, Fast Company, and more. On this episode, Emilia talks about making her freelance dreams come true and about the stories she's proudest of, and shares the one publication that's still on her writing wish list. Plus, Emilia — who lives in Houston, TX, with her husband, Omar, and their dog, Astro — shares her running story. She explains how she's gone from dreaming of one day running a two-hour half-marathon to recently running a sub-1:40 half, and talks about her Boston Qualifying dreams. She talks about developing a strong mental game, offers her thoughts on being a woman of color both in running and in publishing, and talks about being a twin! (Hi Carla!) SPONSOR: AfterShokz — Visit ontherun.aftershokz.com for 15% off wireless headphones. What you'll get on this episode: A day in the life of a freelance journalist (6:00) Why Emilia loves being freelance, and what the career is really like (9:40) Emilia shares her earliest experiences with racism growing up (28:20) Emilia's best advice for making a scary career move (34:00) Emilia reflects on her childhood growing up in Houston, Arizona, and Portland (38:15) How Emilia found running (41:00) On "learning to chill out on the run" (47:25) What we mention on this episode: I Learned to Chill Out During Marathon Training. Here's What Happened. by Emilia Benton for Runner's World "11 BIPOC Runners Speak Out About Running & Race," by Emilia Benton for Runner's World Ben Chan on Episode 277 of the Ali on the Run Show "How to Talk to Your Loved Ones About Social Justice & Race," by Emilia Benton for Women's Health The Brown Ambition podcast Mandi Woodruff on Episode 276 of the Ali on the Run Show Follow Emilia: Instagram @emmiemarieb Twitter @emmiemarieb Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"A lot of science is about asking questions. It's OK to not understand something. And it's OK that it's hard. That understanding comes in just being curious. We don't have all the answers, but we know how to go about looking for them." Welcome to Season 4 of the On the Job series! This season, you'll hear from seven women with cool, unique, interesting careers. We'll learn about the jobs we see on TV — lawyers and nurses and astronauts, oh my! — and we'll honor some frontline heroes, including an emergency room nurse and a middle school special education teacher. But first, we're going to space, with real-life rocket scientist Lynn McGrew! Lynn is a NASA aerospace engineer based at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX, and on this episode, she talks about the moment she fell in love with space ("For the first time, in the middle of the country, I saw this band of stars across the sky, and I was just fascinated by it. What is this magical view overhead? I was absolutely stunned, and so curious," she says.), explains how she broke into the competitive field, and talks about her decades-long involvement working on the Mars rovers in the jet propulsion laboratory ("JPL"), including the Phoenix, the Curiosity, and, most recently, the Perseverance. Plus, she talks about how running and cycling fit into her life. SPONSOR: Tracksmith — Go to tracksmith.com/ontherun and use code ONTHERUN for $15 off your first Tracksmith order of $75 or more. Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"Whatever you want to do, whether it's to write a book or to run a marathon, you have to be brave enough and bold enough to start to say that out loud. It's the only way you can begin to own it and then to understand how to make it happen. You have to put it out there." When Meaghan B Murphy was first on the Ali on the Run Show in January 2019, she casually mentioned maybe kind of sort of wanting to write a book someday. Fast forward two years, and someday is today: Meaghan's debut book, Your Fully Charged Life, is officially on bookshelves! (Congratulations, Meaghan!) On this episode, Meaghan is back to talk about what it's like being a newly-published author. She talks about the getting-published process, and talks about what it was like writing a book during a pandemic with three kids (plus a dog!) at home while also navigating a promotion and new job as editor in chief of Woman's Day magazine. Meaghan talks about being terrified of getting Covid — and then getting it, and getting really sick, two weeks before she was set to record the audio version of her book. And of course, we talk about the book itself — what it is, what it isn't, and why Meaghan insists on putting everything through a "fun filter." If you loved hearing from Meaghan the first time she was on the show, you'll love this update from the most upbeat (but not toxically positive!) person on the planet. CLICK HERE to buy Your Fully Charged Life: A Radically Simple Approach to Having Endless Energy and Filling Every Day with Yay! SPONSOR: AfterShokz — Visit ontherun.aftershokz.com for 15% off wireless headphones. What you'll get on this episode: All about the getting-published process (8:20) What is Your Fully Charged Life — and what is it not? (22:45) Which parts of the book were easiest and most challenging to write (29:30) Why Meaghan wanted to include the current events in the book (40:30) How to own an apology (46:45) Why Meaghan no longer says "little kids, little problems — big kids, big problems" (50:15) Meaghan's experience with Covid-19 (53:00) What we mention on this episode: Meaghan Murphy on Episode 113 of the Ali on the Run Show Meaghan on the Today show Follow Meaghan: Instagram @meaghanbmurphy Twitter @meaghanbmurphy Off the Gram podcast Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"There's a lot of uncertainty, and getting better at that has taken a lot of practice." Welcome to the second episode in the new monthly "Ask Ali" series — where you call in with your questions, and I answer them. This time around, we're covering everything from motherhood and going on family fun runs to how I maintain a positive attitude with a chronic illness (or do I?). I talk about the art of interviewing, finding a therapist, what it would be like if I hosted an "Ali on the Run" race, and, naturally, I offer up some hot takes on Broadway Shows, Center Stage, and The Greatest Showman. If you want to be part of a future "Ask Ali" episode (yay!), call 917-947-9699 — introduce yourself, and ask whatever's on your mind! I can't wait to hear from you! SPONSOR: goodr. Click here and use code ONTHERUN for $10 off! What I mention on this episode: Jess Sims on Episode 261 of the Ali on the Run Show Tunde Oyeneyin on Episode 311 of the Ali on the Run Show "All About the Peloton Treadmill," via Ali on the Run Subscribe to Fast Women Rachel Gersten on Episode 198 of the Ali on the Run Show Rachel Gersten and Jor-El Caraballo on Episode 245 of the Ali on the Run Show The Idea of You Bravey by Alexi Pappas Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb Millennium Running Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Like the Facebook page Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!

"People don't know what you go through or the feelings you have if you don't express and you don't talk about them. People can have all of these assumptions about you, but unless you verbalize what's really going on in your mind, they will never know." When it comes to running, India Cook is passionate about sharing her story — but it's not about her, she'll tell you. It's about making sure other runners in the community feel seen, heard, and welcome on the run. India is a two-time marathoner and 15-time half-marathoner from Atlanta, GA, and she's a content creator and storyteller (and former semi-professional cheerleader, which, yes, we talk about on this episode!). India is the co-host of The Run Duo podcast and hosts the Miles From India YouTube channel. She's also an RRCA-certified run coach. On this episode, India talks about racing in the Covid-19 era, shares her thoughts on what it means to be a brand ambassador in 2021, and talks about what it has been like being a BIPOC public figure in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement. SPONSOR: AfterShokz — Visit ontherun.aftershokz.com for 15% off wireless headphones. What you'll get on this episode: What it's been like participating in "low-risk races" during the pandemic (6:15) Looking back at the 2020 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in Atlanta (12:00) India talks about her childhood and how running entered the picture (16:45) All about The Run Duo podcast and the evolution of the show (27:00) All about "Miles with India" on YouTube (40:00) India's thoughts on being a running brand ambassador in 2021 (46:00) All about Coach India (55:00) What we mention on this episode: "Racing During the Covid-19 Pandemic" via Miles From India BLACK LIVES MATTER via The Run Duo Follow India: Instagram @i_of_endigo_runs Miles From India YouTube The Run Duo Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Like the Facebook page Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!